Thoughts on Health

What’s in a person’s pantry can tell a lot about how that person might feel physically.  Improving your food choices and nutritional intake can make you feel energized, improve the appearance or hair, skin and nails and lower the risk of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer.

By selecting locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, you will provide your body with extra anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals. As for the pantry, here are a few suggestions to help get started with healthier selections;

1. Canned beans, they are very healthy and a good source of protein.  To lower the sodium, rinse thoroughly. Select white, red, garbanzo, kidney or black beans.
2. Popcorn is a whole grain; low-fat is a great choice as well as the portion controlled 100-calorie mini-bags.
3. Tuna, packed in water, light variety provides a low mercury solution to some other fish.
4. Jarred roasted red peppers are a great source of beta-carotene.  They’re a great addition to just about any dish.
5. Capers and olives are a heart healthy part of the popular Mediterranean diet.
6. Green tea is great for many reasons, mainly for it’s antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
7. Low sodium fat free broths or broth mixes are excellent for cooking vegetables, making soups or adding to mashed potatoes.  This lowers the need for butter or salt.
8. Fresh or jarred salsa is a wonderful condiment.  Be sure to look for the brands without added high fructose corn syrup.
9. Fiber bars, such as Fiber one, All bran or Kashi are a good item to have on hand for an on the go snack.
10. Low sodium soups- with clear broth, not the creamy stews or chowders.  Another source of vitamins and low fat meat selections.

Having these items in the pantry is a good start to a healthy lifestyle and healthy eating plan.  Healthy eating is not just about weight loss.  It’s about taking the best care of our bodies and providing them with the best nutrition and fuel for maximum energy.  We often feel exhausted due to our busy lives and the way we expect our bodies to perform when we are not feeding our bodies with the proper foods they need.

When faced with a decision to choose a healthcare plan, or trying to understand the benefits of your existing plan the terms can become quite confusing. Having a better understanding of the most common terms will be helpful when making a selection.

Most of us want to know what the plan will cost on a monthly basis. This is called the premium. The premium is the fee paid monthly in order to maintain your medical coverage.

The copay is usually next on the list of questions asked when comparing coverages.  A copay is the amount you will pay at the healthcare provider’s office when being treated.  The copay for General Pactitioners, Urgent Care Facilities, Specialists, Prescriptions or Emergency Room visits can vary and should be listed seperately. These benefits should be visible on your Insurance ID card.

Some plans have a deductible. A deductible is the amount each individual is required to pay out of pocket before the insurance company begins to contribute to the medical costs.  A high deductible will save you money when shopping for the lowest monthly premium. When you are paying for your medical services, you will only pay the pre- negotiated  rate.  This is the rate already agreed upon by the provider and the insurance company.  Usually less than an uninsured person would pay.

When considering the price of an office visit, this is the amount or percentage of the total claim. In some cases you will only have to pay a percentage of this amount before meeting your deductible, and this is pre-negotiated by the provider and  insurance company.

Out of pocket maximum is the most you will have to pay out of pocket annually.  Once you reach this amount the insurance company will pay the rest of your medical expenses.  IN some cases the deductible is included in this amount and not in others.  It is important to understand this.  This includes all copays as well as other percentages you are responsible for annually.

A lifetime maximum is the most your insurance company will be responsible for.  Most policies offer a high lifetime maximum;millions usually.  This is the most your insurance company will pay for your entire lifetime.  In some situations involving multiple surgeries and treatments this number can be reached in a very short time.

There are so many factors to consider when selecting health insurance and so many confusing terms that apply.  To avoid any surprises, it is important to have a complete understanding of the language and all of the coverages before making a final selection.

If you are trying to lose weight and are sick of the fad diets and the yo-yo effect you may want to consider the Weight Watchers weight loss program.  Weight Watchers may be the answer if you are looking for a low cost, long term solution to your weight problem.  The Weight Watchers program encorporates weekly weigh-ins and meetings for the support and accountability most dieters need.  Most people who attend the meetings lose more weight than those who do not. The Weight Watchers eTools are also very helpful and can be combined with a monthly pass which includes the cost of the weekly meetings.

The Weight Watchers eating plan is is based on their “points” system. Dieters use nutrition labels to calculate the points using the Fat grams, calories and dietary fiber content.  Most prepackaged foods have a nutritional guide/label which details the necessary information needed to calculate points and serving sizes.  The allowable daily points range is based on individual weight.  For example: members  weighing 150 pounds or less have a daily points allowance of 20.  The points range goes up from at a rate of two extra points per 10 lbs of weight up to a maximum of 30 points per day (for those weighing over 200lbs.) The current plan also allows each dieter 35 “flex points” per week.  These “flex points” can be used at any time during each week between meetings or weigh-ins.  Theextra points are for you to use at your discression. You may choose to add an aditional 5 points per day to your daily points allowance if you are still hungry after you’ve used all of your points each day.  You may also use these points for a special reware or treat. However, these points do not have to be used.

Weight Watchers does recommend that you eat 3 meals and at least two snacks a day to keep up your metabolism.  It is also recommended that you drink 6 to 8-8ounce glasses of a no calorie beverage and eat at least 2 servings of a milk or dairy product a day.  The milk products must be included in your total daily points.

Weight Watchers offers many tools at the meetings for support and ease of measuring. The complete food guide and the dining out guide are highly recommended.  These books list in full detai the points value for name brand foods and fast food as well as many restaurants.  They also provide a basic guide for calculating all other foods which are not pre packaged, like meats and vegetables. Applebees is one chain of restaurants which offers Weight Watchers points on a selection of their menu. There are many other tools offered for purchase such as measuring spoons and food scales.  These items help tremendously to make the point calculating a little easier.  The WW cookbooks offer so many recipes which take dieting and cooking to a whole new level.

Many dieters find that Weight Watchers offers a wider variety of food choices than most other diet plans.  Dieters can eat any type of food group they like. They can even splurge when they feel the urge.  This plan incorporates portion control as well as good healthy eating habits.  The weight may not come off quite as fast as some other plans, but learning a new lifestyle is a lifelong lesson and most WW members keep their weight off long term.

With the obesity rate on the rise, many people are desperate to lose weight.  There are many options available that promise weight loss, from meal plans, to diet centers, to drastic surgeries, or group meetings. There is something out there for everyone.  If you’ve tried everything and surgery is a bit too drastic for you, you may consider a new prescription diet pill; phendimetrazine.

Phendimetrazine diet pills are considered to be some of the most effective prescriptions used in the treatment of . Its effectiveness has made it one of the most popular among diet pills. Phendimetrazine is an appetite suppressant which works with your nervous system to help control hunger. This pill should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. There are side effects, which can be serious if not closely monitored. This pill along with a diet and exercise program really works.

The usual doctor recommended diet program is about 10-12 ounces of lean protein a day, with a few servings of very low carb fruits and veggies allowed.  This may seem impossible, but the pills are that good.  When taking the pills patients honestly do not feel hungry and do not feel like they are being deprived when they take the prescription. Moderate exercise is a requirement and it is recommended thet you take a multivitamin daily.  The pills are said to cause thirst, so the recommended daily gallon of water is not hard to handle either.

This weight loss program promises quick, effective weight loss. The pills are recommended for short term use and should only be taken with a prescription and medical supervision.

Those who have taken part in this type weight loss program have reported tremendous weight loss along with many other health benefits.  Many patients no longer need blood pressure or cholesterol medications, and some claim to be rid of Diabetes or other sugar problems.  The health benefits of losing weight are too numerous to list, but with the aid of this medication your weight loss and health goals can be achieved.

Cholestasis is a somewhat rare condition of pregnancy.  The most common symptom is itchy skin. It is a disease of the liver that usually goes away soon after delivery. I personally was diagnosed with this awful, unknown condition and it was up to that point the scariest time of my life.

Cholestasis affects only 1 in .32% of all pregnancies and is usually more common in women of Swedish or Hispanic descent.  In most cases if your mother or sister had it during their pregnancies, you have a 90% chance of developing the condition also.

Cholestasis is caused by pregnancy hormones affecting the gallbladder function, causing slowing or stopping the flow of bile. The normal function of the gallbladder is to hold bile that is produced in the liver, which is necessary to breakdown fats during the digestion process. When the bile flow is stopped or slowed down, there becomes a build up of bile acids in the liver which then can spill into the bloodstream. Elevated amounts of bile acid in the bloodstream cause the itchy skin which is the most common symptom of Cholestasis.

Bile acids in the bloodstream are also dangerous to the fetus. Cholestasis  is known to increase the risks for fetal distress, preterm birth, or stillbirth. As a baby is developing ,it relies on the mother’s liver to remove bile acids from the blood.  This condition, therefore causes stress on the baby’s liver. Women diagnosed with cholestasis should be monitored very closely by their OB or a Perinatologist. The monitoring should include blood tests to check bile levels, and fetal heart monitoring 2-3 times weekly.  In most cases, it is vital to the health of the baby to induce labor once the baby’s lungs have reached maturity to avoid the risks of stillbirth or damage to the baby’s liver. Most doctors agree that cholestasis patients are better off delivering at about 36 weeks.

There are medications that are safe to take during pregnancy that help with the itching and the overall problems associated with the condition Vitamin K is also helpful as well as specific steroids taken late in the pregnancy to help develop the baby’s lungs in preparation for the early delivery.

Recurring Cholestasis in subsequent pregnancies is likely, and in most circumstances more severe each time.  Those affected should consult with their OB about the safety to themselves or the unborn child before considering another pregnancy.

Since my return from a  long weekend at a spa resort, relaxation and  mental wellness  are definitely on my mind.  I am a true spa-junkie.  I love the peaceful tranquil atmosphere while I’m at a spa, as well as the luxurious feeling I have when I’m being pampered.  I do love to take care of my skin and my body, by having facials, body treatments and massage whenever possible. This type atmosphere is what relaxes and centers me the most. I believe that everyone has a different definition of  mental wellness, and this is how I achieve it for myself; by getting away, relaxing, and being pampered a little.

Wellness is defined in many ways, and differently by each individual.  Some see it as physical well being, or medical health others think of mental well being and state of mind.  Tranquility, relaxation, time to clear my and a general feeling or health are what make up wellness to me.  While relaxing at the spa resort I can indulge in some pampering, find time for much needed R&R and eat fabulous well prepared healthy foods.

A weekend without stress is what most people need to make them feel mentally balanced again. Certain tikmes of the year are worse than others. During the busy holiday season, with shopping and parties and work and kids; a little “down-time” is perfect to promote a calm state of mind and renewed spirit.  A trip to a day spa, or any resort, may be just what you need if you’re feeling totally overwhelmed and like you are about to spin completelyout of control.

If spa treatments and pedicures don’t quite do it for you, consider a weekend in the country.  This may be a better getaway for some people.  Maybe you would prefer a log cabin in the mountains, or possibly a relaxing weekend on the beach. Even a big metropolitan high rise hotel in a big city can be a place where some can find their center again.  Just take the time to lock yourself away from the world, stare out a window for hours, take  long naps, enjoy a book or rent a few movies. Any of these activities, or lack thereof,  are a great way to unwind andpromote mental well bieng. Taking time for yourself can help create wellness within anyone.

Make plans to do whatever interests you and makes you feel like your most comfortable you.  It’s important for us all to take some personal time to create our own wellness, however we may define it.

housekeeping is very  important for your health. Particularly in  helping to control symptoms of allergies and asthma.

The fact is that no matter how much you clean, you’ll still be exposed to allergens like dust and dander, but by utilizing these basic steps you can do a lot to reduce them.

*When you consider flooring it’s best to select hard floors.  Those such as hardwood, tile, laminate, or vinyl are better and easier to clean than carpeting. If you really prefer carpeting , choose low-pile or an un-padded material to help with the management of allergies and asthma symptoms, and again, make house cleaning easier.
* For window coverings, be sure you don’t give dust a place to settle. Choose smooth roll down shades or smooth vertical blinds instead of heavy draperies, horizontal blinds, or textured/fabric covered verticals.
* Don’t co-sleep with your pets. Animal dander is a common allergy trigger and is almost impossible to completely clean away.
* Look for specialty bedding that is hypoallergenic. These materials are easy to locate at most bed and bath stores and online.
* Keep area rugs to a minimum, and choose washable, low pile rugs to reduce dust and mold accumulation. This is especially important in bedrooms
* Don’t make use of ceiling or other fans. Fans circulate dust and other allergens. Use  your air-conditioning instead. It is important to clean the vents and change air filters monthly.
* Always use a fan and/or window to exhaust warm, humid air after bathing to avoid mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew are responsible for many health problems.
* Wash shower curtains and bathroom linens frequently and antibacterialize bathroom tiles regularly.The use of mold-killing solutions on both is recommended.
* Be certain to keep your bathrooms in good repair. Wet surfaces are breeding grounds for mold. Fix any broken grout, tile or leaky faucet before it causes a problem.
* Wash bedding often, including pillows. To kill any bacteria it’s best to use hot water then dry all bedding on high heat. This helps kill dust mites also which are a common allergy trigger.
* Remove clean laundry from the washing machine as soon as possible. This will help to discourage mold and mildew growth.
*Invest in a good vacuum cleaner.  Like a Dyson. A strong vacuum with a well-filtered containment system is recommended.  No matter what vacuum you have, used it often,  to remove particles of all kinds before they become airborne. Vacuum daily in heavily traffic areas
* Keep the humidity in your house below 50% to prevent other mold growth. Install dehumidifiers where  moisture tends to collect such as closets and basements.
*No matter how clean you are, you may still have roaches. These pests can enter your home in many ways like in packaging materials. Because roaches are known to irritate allergy symptoms, it is important that you  try to control them with traps, bait, and pesticide sprays. If you must use a pesticide, spray when no one else is at  home, and air the house out well afterward, (check the daily the pollen count before doing so).

Following these simple housekeeping tips will help those allergy and asthma sufferers in your household, and improve your general well being.

If you are like most of us, you feat the typical Hing, party planningoliday weight gain. We work so hard all year long to get in shape or stay in shape and for some reason we give ourselves the green light to totally blow it during the Holidays, starting with Halloween, ending With New Years Day. Wouldn’t it bbe refreshing to plan a Holiday party, and still be able to watch your waistline? This is very possible if you plan carefully.

Try planning the menu to be a more health conscious one. All of your guests will probably be grateful and thank you for doing so. I am usually on the constant quest to maintain a healthy lifestyle, however I too tend to fall off the wagon during the Holidays. This year, I am planning Holiday party and planning a healthy menu too. Holidays really don’t have to be ablut overindulging. Most of my friends are trying to watch their weight in some form or another, so I am planning a healthy menu. I will make it known to all of my guests as well.

As with any party, I know I will be asked, “what can I bring?” I plan to reply with “something healthy”. I will request low fat, low cal and/or low carb menu items only from those who care to contribute. I will also request that they fashion a label of some type; including name of the menu item and what the nutritional values are. By planning it this way, I hope to keep my guests from feeling too guilty after leaving my party.

I was invited to a dessert party over the weekend. I was incredibly nervous about attending. I wasn’t sure I could trust myself not to completely blow it and binge on sweets. I tried my hardest to remain strong, and I was successful, at first. I made a dessert to share with everyone, which I did not even so much as taste; I didn’t even lick the spoon. I refused to eat a single thing at the party, because I know myself and I knew once I started; it would be too late. I drank my water and diet coke the whole time, and watched as others indulged in all the goodies. I was truly miserable, but I stuck to it, that is until I got home. Once I arrived home and found the brownies I baked with my son earlier that day, I could not resist any longer! I completely binged on brownies and peanut butter until I was ill. I foolishly deprived myself of those really good desserts at the party, and then overindulged on something not so good at home. By planning my healthy menu I am hoping to spare my guests of that.

Just as I don’t want to be responsible for any drinking and driving, I don’t want to be responsible for someone overeating, gaining weight, or feeling guilty about his or her food decisions.

So, I will not include a full fat ranch dip with my veggie tray, I will prepare goodies with low fat ingredients and small portions, and I will provide everyone with enough variety of healthy items that can accomodate any diet plan. Rum drinks with zero calorie mixers are a great idea for beverages, they are best for low cal and low carb dieters alike. I will provide plenty of water as well. I am truly trying to spare myself and my guests even if just for this one party, and this one night.

ADD and ADHD are two commonly diagnosed conditions affecting many of our youth.  Many parents are faced with the dilemma of having to medicate their children.  There are said to be ways to control the affects of ADD and ADHD by making dietary changes. Removing artificial coloring and preservatives from the ADD/HD child has been proven to greatly reduce hyperactivity in children.

Start by removing artificial colors from your child’s diet.  Red #40 and yellows are said to have the greatest affect on people.  If this is part of the problem you will notice a difference in about 3 days after it is all out of their system. According to child allergy specialists there has been scientific evidence that preservatives and colorings increased hyperactive behavior. However, parents of children with ADD/HD are rarely encouraged to make dietary changes by the medical professionals.

Eliminating food dyes and preservatives is thought by some to be some type of  “alternative medicine treatment” rather than the standard prescription treatment, like drugs, for ADHD. It is thought that half of ADD/HD families use dietary modification as a form of treatment with positive results, and non-medicated zombie like children.

Recent trials have shown that reducing preservatives and food dyes is shown to reduce hyperactivity in ALL children.  Some of the “sugar highs” are not actually the product of sugar consumption, but a product of the reaction to the dyes in most candy.  If your child has a sweet tooth, chocolate is a better choice. It is not as bad for them as some of the fat free, fruity treats parents usually prefer.

Removiing these ingredients from your child’s diet is certainly harmless.  It will not hurt them to go without these things and in many parent’s eyes, it is a better alternative to prescription drugs.

Other studies of dietary modification include removing Wheat, wheat gluten and casiens from children’s diets as a form of treatment.  Many children have allergies and intolerance to these ingredients, which present themselves as hyperactivity.  Removing these ingredients is much harder than the food dye removal.  Everything they eat seems to have wheat etc. But in many parent’s eyes it’s worth the struggle to help the child naturally.

The course of treatment is a very personal decision for most parents, but these changes certainly will not hurt in any child in any program.

It has often been shown that people with excessive belly fat are more prone to illness than those without.  It is this belief that has many people trying to reduce their belly fat so that they will have a healthier future.

It has been proven that interval exercise has the greatest effect on belly fat reduction.  Interval exercise refers to any exercise program where you continually change the level of intensity during the activity.  Walking is a great form of exercise and works well as an interval exercise.  Begin, of course, with a warm-up walk and then start to increase to a moderate pace for 15 seconds, and then reduce speed for approximately 60 seconds.  Continue to repeat this for an appropriate period of time but always end with a two-minute cool down period.  This is actually more interesting than just normal walking and allows the time to go faster.  A 30 minute walk is generally considered most beneficial.

Another means of interval exercising is to march in place for approximately five minutes and then switch to jumping jacks for no longer than 30 seconds.  This can be repeated until you have accomplished a 20-minute routine.