Marion Healthy Living January 2016

7SUPER WAYS TO

CALORIE BURNERS Creative ✩

WHAT’S UP WITH YOUR GUT? DIETING DO’S & DON’TS

Stroll into the New Year with beautiful legs

If varicose veins have stopped you from baring your legs, we have great news. The experienced, Board Certified doctors at the Center for Vascular Health offer a variety of quick and effective treatments to help you enjoy smoother, younger-looking legs you’ll be proud to expose.

We provide safe and effective treatments for varicose veins including endovenous laser treatment and phlebectomy, plus a host of other advanced vascular procedures such as uterine fibroid evaluation and treatment. Having your procedure done by CVH’s Board Certified physicians means you’ll enjoy a fast recovery and receive expert follow-up care.

Rolando E. Prieto, MD

David C. McKay, MD

Caleb R. Rivera, MD

Kareem I. Bohsali, MD

John Scales, MD

Phil Berardi, PA

If you’re ready to look and feel like yourself again, call us – and reclaim your place in the sun.

BOARD CERTIFIED, VASCULAR AND INTERVENTIONAL FELLOWSHIP TRAINED RADIOLOGISTS

TODAY I START.

The average life has more than 27,000 days. But today can be special. Today can be the day you make your health a priority. Today can be the day you start getting stronger. Today can be the day you stress less. And smile more. Today can be the day you join the Y and find yourself surrounded by people who will help you make the most of every single day. And today is also the day when it costs less to join the Y. Visit the newly renovated and expanded Frank DeLuca YMCA Family Center. Today.

Join by January 5 for $5

Join by January 10 for $10

Join by January 15 for $15

Join by January 20 for $20

RENOVATION GRAND OPENING

JANUARY 12

Join us for our day-long celebration starting with a ribbon cutting and lunch ceremony at 12 p.m.

Immediately following, our corporate fitness partners, Les Mills and Technogym, will join us in hosting a community event to showcase our favorite new programs that are all designed to help you and your family continue to learn, grow and thrive. Bring your family, friends and co-workers to experience the fun at the new Frank DeLuca YMCA. The community event includes:

 Pickleball

 Les Mills BODYPUMP®

 Les Mills BODYCOMBAT®

 Les Mills BODYSTEP®

 Les Mills BODYFLOW®

 Les Mills BORN TO MOVE® for kids

 Catch Kids Fitness classes

 Water Safety classes

 Organic Chef Café Tastings and Cooking Classes

 Omnia Fitness Demos

 Technogym Fitness Demos

 MRMC Screenings and Q&A

TODAY I JOIN THE Y.

TWO-DAY GUEST PASS

This TWO-DAY pass gives you the chance to try the NEW YMCA, including programs that are designed to help you and your family grow stronger together. One guest pass per year. Offer expires 1/31/2016 3200

For 25 years, we have been committed to creating an environment where our residents feel secure, cared for and loved. We would be honored to care for your loved ones in their time of need.

Services Offered:

In-House Psychiatrist

Podiatrist

Ophthalmologist

Dermatologist

Nurse Practitioner

Organized Social Activities

Church Services

Daily Living Assistance

We are currently accepting referrals

Ocala’s Best-Kept Secret

Prestige Manor

Assisted Living Facility

6333 SE Babb Rd. | Belleview, FL | 352-307-6333

prestigemanorassistedliving.com

Carrol Dillon-Smith Administrator/Owner Megan Christine Forrest Director of Operations

Not so well? Then Advanced Urology Specialists just may be the answer you’re looking for. With fifteen board-certified urologists in offices throughout Central Florida, the most advanced technologies in the field and the very highest standards of care, there’s no question that when the going gets tough, your very best option will be AUS.

Missing the fairway 12 times is not something you had planned for...

Missing the fairway 12 times is not something you had planned for...

Missing the fairway 12 times is not something you had planned for...

neither was your trip to the ER

neither was your trip to the ER

neither was your trip to the ER

Since everything in life can’t be planned, isn’t it good to know you can count on short ER wait times at Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital? Emergencies are our first priority and our wait times reflect that sense of urgency whether you have breaks or strains, stomach pains, pounding headaches or chest pain. Emergency trained physicians provide fast and friendly medical care close by so you can get back in the swing of activities you enjoy most.

Since everything in life can’t be planned, isn’t it good to know you can count on short ER wait times at Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital? Emergencies are our first priority and our wait times reflect that sense of urgency whether you have breaks or strains, stomach pains, pounding headaches or chest pain. Emergency trained physicians provide fast and friendly medical care close by so you can get back in the swing of activities you enjoy most.

Since everything in life can’t be planned, isn’t it good to know you can count on short ER wait times at Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital? Emergencies are our first priority and our wait times reflect that sense of urgency whether you have breaks or strains, stomach pains, pounding headaches or chest pain. Emergency trained physicians provide fast and friendly medical care close by so you can get back in the swing of activities you enjoy most.

ocalahealthsystem.com

ocalahealthsystem.com

ocalahealthsystem.com

Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital

Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital

Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital

Ocala Health has the shortest ER wait times in town.

Text ER to 23000 for average ER wait times

Ocala Health has the shortest ER wait times in town. Text ER to 23000 for average ER wait times.

Ocala Health has the shortest ER wait times in town.

Text ER to 23000 for average ER wait times.

Tourney Tee Off

› PAGE 26

The world’s best female golfers are gearing up for the encore presentation of the Coates Golf Championship.

› By Carlton Reese

We

› PAGE 36

Think of hormones as our bodies' signal callers, the quarterback of the team. Without hormones relaying the plays, our essential functions would, well, malfunction.

› By JoAnn

Guidry

Hate Your Guts? › PAGE 40

How your intestinal health affects your entire body and what you can do to improve it.

› By Cynthia McFarland

Your Love, Our Expertise.

PUBLISHER

Kathy Johnson kathy@healthylivingmagazines.com

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cynthia Brown art@healthylivingmagazines.com

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Karin Fabry-Cushenbery karin@healthylivingmagazines.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Melissa Peterson melissa@healthylivingmagazines.com

Caring for a loved one with

can become overwhelming, dementia

But it’s never the wrong choice to get the best care. and the decision to seek help can feel like giving up.

We give families peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving expert care in a secure, compassionate community.

Superior Residences offers specialized services for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related illnesses.

Superior

Day Stay & Guest Stay Program

We understand that caring for someone 24 hours a day can be a difficult task. Whether you need to take a well-deserved vacation or run errands for a few hours, Superior Residences will care for your loved one while you are away.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Katie McPherson katie@ocalastyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jim Gibson

Laurel Gillum

Joann Guidry

Lesley Jones

Bonnie Kretchik

CynthiaCarltonMcFarland Reese

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Cealia Athanason cealia@ocalastyle.com

EDITORIAL INTERN

Grace Cali

ART art@healthylivingmagazines.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jason Fugate

ART DIRECTOR

Jessi Miller Castro

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Christina Geiger

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Jernigan shutterstock.com

SALES

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson deanjohnson@healthylivingmagazines.com

SALES MANAGER

Sharon Morgan

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Anne Farrior anne@healthylivingmagazines.com

Lori Tani

Skip Linderman

Peggy Sue Munday

Liza Fritz

Tammy waters

DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

DebraRickMcqueen Shaw

Florida

Two Locations: www.SuperiorALF.com

Meet with us and come see how we can work together to give your loved one the best possible care.

ADVISORY BOARD

HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE has brought together a group of medical experts and community leaders to serve on our advisory board and share their expertise and insight with our readers.

Craig Ackerman Public Information O cer FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN MARION COUNTY

Ashley Barnes Patient Assessment Coordinator

KINDRED HOSPITAL OCALA

Ashley Cauthen, M.D. Cosmetic And Clinical Dermatology MIDSTATE SKIN INSTITUTE

Joseph Foster Senior Solutions Director SUPERIOR RESIDENCES OF LECANTO

Theressa Foster Owner WEST CENTRAL SOLUTIONS

Carmen M. Hernandez Health Education Program Manager FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Michael Holloway, M.D. Physician-Directed Weight Management & Medical Aesthetics LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS MEDSPA

Mark Jank, M.D. Ophthalmology OCALA EYE

Katie Myers, APR Director Of Marketing And Public Relations CITRUS MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Navinderdeep Nijher, M.D. Plastic Surgery OCALA PLASTIC SURGERY

Chris Okonkwo, M.D. Pediatrics CHILDREN’S HEALTH OF OCALA

Operating System

Reload for Mac, PC, Linux

Amanda Ostrom Marketing And Communications Manager RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF OCALA, P.A.

Jayanti Panchal, M.D. Internal Medicine And Medical Weight Management SUCCESS BY DESIGN

Carolyn Reyes, MPA, M.Ed. Professional Relations Representative HPH HOSPICE

Suzanne Santangelo Director, Marketing OCALA HEALTH

Password Resets

PC Optimization

Screen Replacements

On-Site IT Services

Save the time and trouble of packing up your computer and driving to our office. Let us come to you. We troubleshoot and fix network problems, enhance the speed of your computers, set up printers and remove viruses. We believe in preventive maintenance through cleaning and thorough inspection to promote a healthy, prolonged life of your equipment.

Hard Drive Password Removal CHECK

New and used computers. Come browse our shop or WEEKLY MONDAY SALES SPECIALS ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. lines of the most popular brands, from HP Pavilions/Elite Books to Dell Vostros and Latitudes. All computers are thoroughly inspected, and as Microsoft Registered Refurbishers, we ensure you receive a computer with legitimate software.

Katie Lucas Public Information O cer NATURE COAST EMS

Meghan Shay, CFRE Director Of Public Relations And Development THE CENTERS

Daniel A. Weldon, DMD Implant And Cosmetic Dentistry WELDON GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Happier And Healthier

› Get enough sleep, and take omega-3s to boost your mood.

› Express gratitude to reduce stress and improve resilience.

› Do the hard things first each day.

› Hang out with your family and friends.

› Set aside time for yourself to recharge and do something you love.

A healthy mind promotes a healthy body. Focus on more than physical wellness and get a mood makeover with these five tips for happier and healthier living.

Growing Wellness

With just a little digging-in-thedirt sweat equity, the West Ocala Wellness Community Garden will make good fresh veggies available to residents.

› By JoAnn Guidry

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, study after study has shown that good nutrition is vital to good health and that limited access to fresh healthy food is correlated with an increased rate of obesity and diabetes. Those same studies have found that low-income and underserved neighborhoods fall into this category. But one solution to these so-called food deserts is community gardens, and West Ocala will soon have one of its very own.

“With many community partners, we’ve been working on the concept of a community garden in West Ocala for more than two years,” says Ire Bethea, recreation division head with the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department.

“We wanted it to be centrally located in the neighborhood within walking distance for as many people as possible.

It’s not enough to make healthy food choices available; you have to make it convenient, too. And people have to have a stake in it.”

The final piece, according to Bethea, was Ocala businessman Rasem Okab of Rana LLC agreeing to a no-cost, two-year lease on 2.9 acres. The latter is located on the corner of NW 21st Avenue and NW 23rd Avenue, just off West Highway 40. The official groundbreaking on the West Ocala Wellness Community Garden is set for January 9, beginning at 9am and lasting until 1pm.

Ire

“We will be building 24 raised beds, putting in soil and planting fall vegetables that day,” says Bethea. “We will be planting broccoli, collard greens, cabbage, spinach, English

peas, kale, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts to start. Then in March or April, we’ll plant spring vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, squash, cucumbers, beans and eggplants.”

For a $10 annual fee, those who wish to participate in the community garden will be assigned a raised bed. They will sign an agreement to care for the bed while enjoying its unlimited produce. Plants, tools and water access will be provided. There will also be free monthly gardening classes and cooking demonstrations.

“Community gardens provide nutritious food that might not be otherwise available,” says Bethea, who grew up on a farm. “But they also improve the quality of life in a neighborhood, bringing people together for a shared cause. We’re starting small but hope the community garden will grow good food and good health in the community.”

Community gardens provide nutritious food that might not be otherwise available

›

Bethea

20/20 Vision

Citrus 20/20 Inc. uses forward thinking and comprehensive planning to ensure a bright future for all of Citrus County.

› By JoAnn Guidry

Founded in 1995, Citrus 20/20 is a citizen-based community organization focused on cultivating the county’s people and natural resources to maintain a good quality of life in Citrus County. The name was derived from the original steering committee’s vision of where the county should be 25 years from 1995, hence the year 2020.

“Citrus 20/20’s mission evolved by looking at 10 key components that would affect the county’s future,” says Lace Blue-McLean, chair of the organization’s board of directors. “These include education, social needs, growth management, infrastructure, civic partnerships, economic development, youth needs, natural and people resources, society and culture identity, and eco-tourism.”

Blue-McLean describes Citrus 20/20’s role in furthering these causes as “a mediator for community organizations, bringing people together to help them with their needs.”

Over the years, Citrus 20/20 has played a vital role in several key issues, including improving water quality throughout the county; establishing the Academy of Environmental Science as a public charter school; historic structure designation and ownership transfer of Historic Hernando School for conversion to a community center; creating and printing of the Environmental Homeowner’s Guide; establishing the Citrus County Recycles! initiative; and establishing the annual youth scholarships given to college-bound students and/or technical school students.

“To be effective, we feel that, as an organization, we need to be involved in the community as a whole,” says Blue-McLean. “All our valuable partnerships make that possible.”

It was community partnerships that led to the creation of Save Our Waters Week, which has become a Citrus 20/20 signature event. Established in 1996, SOWW first came to be from Citrus 20/20 partnering with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Citrus County government. Added to the partnership was the Citrus County Chronicle in 2003 and Progress Energy (now Duke Energy) in 2005.

“The purpose of Save Our Waters Week is to promote public awareness, education and consensus to save Citrus County’s waters,” says Blue-McLean. “This includes springs, rivers, lakes, coastal areas and the Florida aquifer. We all recognize the importance of the waterways to Citrus County’s quality of life.”

The weeklong event, beginning on the third Saturday of September, features waterway cleanups, river tours, a high school environmental jeopardy competition and music. Last year’s SOWW included 742 volunteers who cleaned up 6,268 pounds of debris from Citrus County waterways.

“We are very proud that the community has made Save Our Waters Week such a success,” says BlueMcLean. “We celebrated our 20th anniversary of the event last year and look forward to 20 more years.”

To be effective, we feel that, as an organization, we need to be involved in the community as a whole.

› Lace Blue-McLean

Sell Out

The Problem

It’s a bit early to call it spring cleaning, but we’re guessing your life could use some decluttering.

The Challenge

Advertise

Make an ad that really stands out. Garage sale ads on websites like Craigslist are easy to skip over. Post a few photos of your big items with the ad, and then post a few teaser photos on your Instagram or Facebook account a week before your sale. Then on the day before your sale, start posting large signs around your neighborhood to direct cars to your home.

Sell As A Group

Do your friends and family have things they’d like to sell, too? Combine everyone’s stuff to make the garage sale look fuller. You’ll draw more people in and sell more if it looks like you have a ton of stuff.

Organize

Ever been to a sloppy garage sale? It probably only earned a quick browse, if that. Keep your sale orderly and attractive by placing large items in the front. Then, organize items by type, use baggies to keep sets and small items together, and label everything clearly with the price and name of the item. As items are sold, move everything closer together to keep your sale looking full.

Don’t Overcharge

Remember that it’s a garage sale. Getting something for your items is better than donating them for free, so keep the prices low. If you want to get top dollar for more valuable items, sell them on Craigslist or eBay.

This month, we’re challenging you to have a garage sale to get rid of the clutter.

Go through your closets, attic, garage, storage sheds and bookcases, and we’ll show you how to throw your best garage sale yet.

Free Pile

Make a “free pile” out of items that you don’t think will sell. Set it at the front of your sale and attach a large sign to the pile so people can see it from the road. Most people will want to check out the free stuff. If they see something they want, they’ll probably check out the rest of the sale, too.

Each month we present our readers with a new challenge to improve their health and wellness.

EXTRA TIP: Reel in shoppers with snacks and beverages. If they’re making a day out of garage sales, they’ll stick around for some refreshment.

Test Lab: Lookin’ Good, Honey

Do you ever see trendy foods, beauty techniques or odd products and think “now that I have to try?”

› By Katie McPherson

Here in the test lab (our editorial office), I’m trying honey cleansing, a natural face-washing method taking over the blogosphere.

The Method

The experiment is simple: Apply honey liberally, allow to sit for a few minutes and then rinse. Bloggers and skin pros say it should leave your face feeling moisturized and clean.

The Claims

Honey lovers say the sweet stuff balances oily skin while moisturizing—it’s a humectant, a substance that promotes moisture retention in skin and hair—without stripping skin and making it feel tight like commercial cleansers. Because honey is antibacterial, it’s said to battle breakouts sans chemicals, so it’s gentle on skin.

The Experiment

I decided to dive in to the honey challenge 100 percent by using it as my only cleanser for five days. Besides, it’s good scientific practice to eliminate any variables.

Online, everyone says to purchase manuka honey for its extra potent antibacterial properties. My wallet preferred a bear-shaped bottle of wildflower honey at $5.49 for 12 oz. versus $25.99. Just make sure

The Verdict

whatever honey you choose is raw and unfiltered, meaning it hasn’t had all the antibacterial goodness processed away.

Personally, I wasn’t excited about slathering goo on my face. Honey isn’t known for being cooperative, so I feared it oozing into my hairline and eyelashes and turning me into a sticky lagoon creature. I was quite happy to be proven wrong.

Dampening my face before putting on the honey made it easy to spread and it rinsed off cleanly. The first wash went smoothly, and I let the honey sit for five minutes as suggested. The following day, I noticed my skin didn’t get oily until much later in the day. Things went smoothly until day three, when after my evening honey cleanse, my skin still felt dirty. I broke my own rule and used a coffee ground exfoliator, which made my skin feel much better.

Confession: I have oily skin with pores you can see from the moon, but my skin actually looked a little brighter at the end of my experiment. The honey always left my skin feeling oddly healthy and never tight or stripped like other cleansers. If you try this at home, I suggest keeping your choice of exfoliator on hand to prevent build-up and moisturizer for dry spots.

Although I’m too into experimenting with new products (clearly) to dedicate myself to honey forever, I recommend it highly for anyone with sensitive skin in need of natural TLC.

A Curable Disease?

Researchers at Harvard University were recently able to create insulinproducing cells almost identical to those found in the human body, leaving scientists hopeful about the future treatment of Type 1 diabetes.

Scientists were able to recreate enough cells that cell transplantation is now possible, and the stem cells that are currently undergoing trial on animals are still producing insulin after several months. Ten percent of people with diabetes have Type 1 diabetes, and Type 1 is the most common type of diabetes in children.

Blowing Smoke?

Because these e-cigarettes have been used to wean smokers off of nicotine, it appears to be a safe hobby. But, as more and more teens jump on the vape train, we wanted to take a closer look to keep you informed on this dangerous and growing trend.

Vaping involves inhaling vaporized “juice” or “e-liquid” through an e-cigarette, or vapor pen. E-cigarettes were originally introduced in 2007 to help nicotine-addicted smokers nix their addiction by using juice with varying (often decreasing) levels of nicotine.

Now, smoking and non-smoking teens are joining the trend and enjoying the many

flavors that are available—from cotton candy to mango. A vape pen uses a vaporizer, powered by a rechargeable battery, to turn the liquid into smokeable vapor.

When the liquid heats up to turn into vapor, its composition changes. And that’s where the questions begin. Because the vaping industry is not regulated by the FDA,

there is still much research that needs to be done to determine how much nicotine e-liquids contain, what substances are formed when e-liquids are vaporized and how harmful those substances may be.

Vaping has been compared to the cigarette smoking of the 1940s, and it appeals to smokers and non-smokers alike.

Vaping 101

What Studies Show

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine and the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York recently tested the effects of vapor, with and without nicotine, on exposed lung tissue and lab animals. This is what they found:

WITH NICOTINE:

› Disrupted lung cell barrier functions, making the cells more permeable and ineffective as barriers to outside substances

› Created a buildup of inflammatory cells in lungs

› Produced high concentrations of free radicals, which can damage cells and the immune system

WITHOUT NICOTINE:

› Also disrupted lung cell barrier functions, making the cells more permeable and ineffective as barriers to outside substances

› Produced an even higher concentration of free radicals than nicotine-containing liquids.

Source: sciencenews.org

Vaping And Teen Health

Even though vaping might be beneficial to smokers who want to stop smoking cigarettes, it may not be so beneficial for developing teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data in April 2015 that showed e-cigarette use among middle and high school students tripled from 2013 to 2014. E-cigarettes allow you to inhale nicotine without the tobacco and hundreds of carcinogens contained in regular cigarettes, but researchers and public health officials worry about the possibility of addiction and developmental problems e-cigarettes can cause in teens.

“We want parents to know that nicotine is dangerous for kids at any age, whether it’s an e-cigarette, hookah, cigarette or cigar,” says CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “Adolescence is a critical time for brain

A Deceiving Disguise?

development. Nicotine exposure at a young age may cause lasting harm to brain development, promote addiction and lead to sustained tobacco use.”

And it’s not just the nicotine that’s posing a health threat. The flavors used in e-liquids could be harmful to your respiratory system. According to epidemiologist Jessica Barrington-Trimis of the University of Southern California, flavorings “have a history of being known respiratory toxins.”

John Halligan, the senior adviser of the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association says, “When we saw flavors were being used in e-cigarettes, we wanted to put the word out right away that it’s a possibility that flavors being inhaled through an e-cigarette could also be harmful.”

Many teens don’t view vaping as a health hazard. According to drugabuse.gov, the 2014 Monitoring the Future annual survey found that only 14.2 percent of high school seniors considered e-cigarettes harmful. Though there is still much research to be done and no proven evidence of long-term side effects, the already-discovered health risks prompt the question of regulation. Back in April 2014, the FDA announced its plans to include e-cigarettes in its regulation of tobacco products, though it has not yet happened. And 31 organizations, including the American Lung Association, are vying for it.

Vaping Stats

466+ 7,764+ $3 Billion 1 in 10 An estimated 10% An estimated 13%

› brands of e-cigarettes

› flavors of juice or e-liquids

› $3 billion global industry

› adults in the United States have tried e-cigarettes

› American adults vape

› High school students vape

Sources: wired.com, washingtonpost.com, bu.edu

Vaping Jargon

These are some of the basic terms used among vapers.

ADV: All Day Vape, a flavor you could use on a daily basis

ATOMIZER/ATTY: The heating element that turns the liquid into vapor

DOUBLER/TRIPLER: E-liquids without nicotine that can add flavor to and dilute another e-liquid containing nicotine

PG: Propylene Glycol, a base component of e-liquids.

PV: Personal Vaporizer, another name for an e-cigarette.

TANK: Reservoir that holds the e-liquid.

Sources: ecigalternative.com, fda.gov, cdc.gov, sciencenews.org, drugabuse.gov, washingtonpost.com, fortune.com, wired.com, bu.edu, ecigalternative.com

Why, The Nerve!

What Does It Feel Like?

Neuralgia can often feel like electric shocks. Sufferers deal with shooting pains when it flares up and an aching, burning feeling between episodes. These pain attacks can last for days, weeks or even months at a time.

Where Does It Strike?

With nearly 46 miles of nerves in the human body, there’s certainly more than one way to suffer from neuralgia. It can be caused by infection, pressure on the nerves, trauma, diabetes or multiple sclerosis.

Trigeminal neuralgia is the most common form. It affects the trigeminal nerve in the face, the same one that causes brain freezes. Episodes of pain are sparked by chewing, touching, brushing the teeth or just speaking.

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia usually begins after age 40 when cranial nerves are irritated, causing nerve pain in the nose, throat, tongue and tonsil area.

How Will My Doctor Test For Neuralgia?

To find the root cause of the pain, doctors may request an MRI as well as checks on kidney function and blood sugar levels. A nerve conduction velocity test measures the speed of signals traveling on the nerves, which doctors can use to determine where the damaged portions are located.

How Is It Treated?

Neuralgia is an intense pain along the nerve. Causes for the condition vary, but doctors agree it’s one of the most painful ailments out there. Here’s what you need to know.

Occipital neuralgia results from concussive trauma to the occipital nerves or repetitive neck contraction and flexion. Pain radiates in the upper neck, back of the head and behind the eyes.

Postherpetic neuralgia is the result of damage to the nerves from the varicella zoster virus, the culprit behind chicken pox and shingles. When shingles begin to crust over, sufferers will experience nerve pain, which normally goes away on its own. It is only classified as neuralgia if it continues for three months.

Of course, doctors will always aim to resolve the cause of the nerve damage and pain. If the source can’t be remedied, doctors will focus on treating the pain itself using antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, lidocaine patches or skin creams made with capsaicin. Some people with the condition even report it disappearing on its own over time.

When Should I See A Doctor?

pain, which normally goes away on its own. It

If your pain doesn’t improve with over-thecounter pain relievers or the attacks become more frequent or intense over time, make an appointment to find out how you can resolve your neuralgia.

People refer to a mild annoyance as a pain in the neck, but some of the most serious pain happens in the nerves.

SOLUTIONS

A Sneeze And A Wheeze

Though

Cold air can trigger asthma and tends to drive us indoors. Just turning on the heater can kick up dust that’s been hiding for too long, and keeping it warm inside only makes it easier for mold to grow. How can you get through yet another bad allergy season? We’ll show you what you’re up against and how to fight back.

The Allergens

Welcome dust, mold and animal dander—the three indoor allergens most prevalent in the winter. If you have allergies or asthma, you’ll likely react with sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath or tightness in the chest. Because you’re spending more time indoors with the heat on, watch for stirred up dust and animal dander, along with mold growth in tubs, showers and sinks.

Plan of Attack

Don’t let winter allergies get the best of you. Here are 10 ways to eliminate allergens and prevent asthma attacks this season.

1. Wash your bed sheets and pajamas in hot water each week.

2. Encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust mite-proof covers. (Available on amazon.com or at most department stores.)

3. Dust with a damp cloth to trap dust and keep it from becoming airborne.

4. Keep pets, rugs and carpet out of your bedroom.

5. Vacuum floors and rugs once or twice a week with a HEPA filter.

6. Use a dehumidifier to keep your home’s humidity level below 50 percent.

7. Clean all tubs, sinks and showers with a bleach solution to kill mold and prevent its growth.

8. Run bathroom and kitchen vents when showering and cooking.

9. When it’s cold and dry or wet and rainy outside, wear a scarf that you can pull over your mouth to warm the air you breathe and prevent triggering asthma.

10. Avoid burning wood fires indoors, as the smoke can set off asthma, as well. If you do, make sure to keep the area well ventilated.

Get Relief

Sometimes enough is enough. If your allergies become unbearable, see your allergist. He or she can perform a skin test to check for new allergies, give you allergy shots or put you on over-the-counter antihistamines, inhaled steroids, nasal sprays or eye drops to relieve your symptoms.

summer and fall can be tough if you have allergies, the winter months don’t necessarily promise relief either.

Onecan only imagine the pent-up glee oozing from the walls of the Coates Golf boardroom during its post-mortem meeting that followed the inaugural Coates Golf Championship last January.

The event served as a launching platform for the new Marion County-based company dedicated to expanding equipment options for female golfers and endured its fair share of skepticism. But after enormous galleries at the tournament, a star-studded field of players and the Coates brand peppered over national television for an entire week, all doubts were certainly laid to rest.

The pre-tournament skepticism centered mainly around the locale, as LPGA officials initially preferred the event to take place in one of Florida’s greater population centers, such as Orlando or Tampa. Company founders Mollie and Randy Coates were adamant that the event could—and should—work in Ocala and insisted that the LPGA kick off its 2015 season at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club.

The move proved genius as hordes of fans from Marion and surrounding counties (even up from Tampa and Orlando) stormed Golden Ocala, creating an atmosphere that many players noted went beyond a normal tour event.

Jessica Korda, who tied for second, said, “it feels like I’m playing in a major (championship).”

Michelle Wie offered the following assessment: “It’s like a major turnout. It’s exciting to play in front of excited crowds. It seems like they’re really excited to see us and feels really great.”

The tournament created momentum not just for the LPGA, which enjoyed its biggest year in history with the most purse money distributed, but also for the Coates Golf company. Coates, with its one-of-a-kind business model, debuted its line of ladies-only equipment at the event and has parlayed that opening-day splash into a successful year and bright future.

Recently, Coates announced that its line of clubs will be available at national retailers Dick’s Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy, which will showcase Coates equipment right alongside

“Coates Golf has had an incredible first year. We have an exceptional line of equipment and apparel of which our distribution center is completely stocked.”

— Mollie Coates

Mollie and Randy Coates

Photo of Mollie and Randy Coates by Laurie Wilson

such industry heavy hitters as Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade and Nike.

“Coates Golf has had an incredible first year,” says Mollie. “We have an exceptional line of equipment and apparel of which our distribution center is completely stocked.”

With 80,000 spectators at the 2015 tournament and television broadcasts available in over 150 million homes, Coates made quite a big splash in its initial dive into the golf industry pool. So what does one do for an encore?

“The knowledge we gained from our first event has given us a lot of ammunition to make 2016 even better,” says Mollie.

The 2016 event will be the second tournament on the LPGA Tour schedule, running the week of February 1 through 6 at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club.

Mollie says that the 2016 event will show logistical improvements for fans as well as provide more activities

beyond golf spectating. Anyone who attended last year’s event and waited in a long car line to enter the property will certainly be pleased.

“In 2016, we are completely changing the way parking, ticketing and will call will be handled, making it much easier for crowds to get onto tournament grounds and enjoy the golf,” says Mollie.

With easier access to the event, fans will also get to enjoy the most exciting addition to the event—the Craft Beer Tasting Festival. Tri-Eagle Sales and Cone Distributing have partnered to provide 18 different breweries for attendees to ‘taste a round’ for a small fee. The festival will be held in the garden in front of the Golden Ocala clubhouse.

Inkster On Board With Coates

Caught up in the growing snowball of the Coates brand was the recent signing of a golf legend to represent the company on the LPGA Tour. Hall of Famer Juli Inkster brings instant credibility to the Coates product line with a record and reputation matched by only a few in the history of the sport.

In last year’s Coates Golf Championship, Inkster showed she still has plenty of game to run with the younger set as she tied for 40th and was one of only 21 players in the entire field to break par both days after the cut.

With 31 LPGA Tour wins, including seven major championships, Inkster’s playing credentials make her the most decorated active player on the Tour. In addition, she owns more Solheim Cup victories than any American in history and captained the U.S. team to victory in 2015.

And now she is putting her weight behind the Coates mission.

“I understand what Coates Golf means to the golf industry and to women,” says Inkster, who will play Coates equipment out of the Coates bag as will fellow player representative Alexandria Jacobsen. “With Coates, now women at all levels of play have options—and they are performance options. I have never been more confident that there are great things to come for women and golf.”

Mollie says that the 2016 command, she now juggles athletic exercise, a busy golf schedule game’s leading ambassadors regardless of gender.

At age 55, Inkster carries the athletic gate of most of her younger peers on the Tour. Able to perform a cartwheel or handstand on command, she now juggles athletic exercise, a busy golf schedule and an analyst position with Fox Sports during coverage of USGA events. All the while, Inkster maintains her status as one of the game’s leading ambassadors regardless of gender.

“Juli is the embodiment of what Coates Golf represents,” says Mollie. “She is strong, athletic and an inspiration. To have Juli associated with our commitment to empower and equip women to expect more from golf is a tremendous compliment. It also speaks volumes of her commitment to this sport and to growing the game.”

In 2016, Inkster will again challenge the young guard at the Coates Golf Championship, but this time, she’ll be sporting the now-familiar antelope logo on her bags and clubs, which she will promote at future LPGA and Legends events. It’s the merging of a company and a legend, both holding firm to a belief and philosophy to make the game better for everyone.

Coates Committed To Women’s Golf

With the momentum building and the growth of Coates Golf, the sky could be the limit. Coates has embarked on a never-before attempted strategy of honing onto a single niche in the market place: women’s golf.

But could success someday lead the company to expand into the more predominant and more-crowded male markets? That, according to Mollie, would undermine the company’s commitment.

“Coates will always be solely dedicated to women’s golf,” says Mollie. “That in itself is what differentiates us from the other equipment companies in the market. All of our research, engineering and manufacturing is focused only on what female golfers need in the game.”

Mollie is on a mission that seems about much more than just the financial success of a company. As much a pied-piper for the female golfer, she sees the venture not so much as capital, but historic.

“Although we do our best to not let it bubble up in conversations often, misogyny is still very much present within the golf industry, and we do everything we can through our marketing to shine light on it. We give (women) the same options as men when fitting themselves with clubs. We understand that these female golfers are athletes and take their game seriously.

“Beyond what we do as a company, we want to be the cheerleaders for girls and women to

have the confidence to believe in themselves and to take the course head on.”

If a microcosm of the company’s future success can be found in the success of the tournament, there are certainly bright days ahead.

Last year, the Ocala event marked the season-opener for the LPGA Tour, but this time around the tour heads to the Bahamas before returning to Ocala. Nonetheless, one of the best fields in women’s golf is again expected to hit the course with defending champion Na Yeon Choi leading the way.

“The 2015 Coates was an astounding success,” says Mollie. “The local community came together through corporate sponsorships, volunteer staff and general spectatorship to make the inaugural event a tournament that the LPGA professional women are still talking about.”

The success of the 2015 inaugural event provided a boon not only to the LPGA Tour and the Coates brand but also to the local economy, something tournament founders hoped would result from bringing the tournament to Ocala. Research conducted by Kerr & Downs Research, a group out of Tallahassee, which was commissioned by a third party, estimates the local economic impact of last year’s event to be $18.4 million.

So when Mollie speaks of empowerment, it’s not just for female golfers but also for the Ocala region the company calls home.

Randy & Mollie Coates, John Travolta, Kelly Preston and Morgan Pressel

Paula Creamer at Autograph Alley

Mr. Pearson of Pearson Nissan and Paula Creamer

Photo by John Jernigan

“If you’re my fighter, there’s no drinking, no smoking,” he says. “I’m strict. I’m fair.”

Kahlil’s a heavyweight fighter, and he trains with Ocasio in the mornings and works on cardio in the late afternoons. He says the goal is to train hard enough that the fights seem easy, but boxing is still an intense sport whether you’re training or fighting.

“It’s the hardest sport in the world,” Kahlil says. “You’re gonna take hits in the face.”

Kahlil thanks God and the man who’s been like a father to him for making him a better fighter. He remembers watching his older brother box as a little kid and feeling that’s what he was supposed to do. So, when he first walked into a boxing gym in his early 20s, he knew that’s where he belonged. He’s been fighting ever since, and just last year, he went professional. His record stands at 234, and his next fight is scheduled for January 23.

“Kahlil is strong. He’s strong,” Tito says. “He’s got a lot of skills, and his attitude is awesome.”

When he steps into the ring before each fight, it’s not just the confidence built by his training that keeps him strong; it’s the support from his wife, Felicia, too. Instead of getting nervous for him, she gets pumped and starts yelling, “Hit him! Hit him!”

“He’s a beautiful person and has a beautiful heart,” Ocasio says.

FLOAT On Jon

Todd Frobish has been paddle boarding for three years. He’s 52 years old, one of the owners of Brick City Bicycles and the director of sales at Nobility Homes in Ocala. He got into paddle boarding when he was looking for a way to cool off after riding his bike.

“With a paddle board, you can hop in the water and get back on the board anywhere,” he says. “It’s environmentally friendly, and it’s not too expensive.”

Brick City Bicycles sells paddleboards and keeps a sign-up sheet for paddle boarding trips, so Todd often takes people out on the weekends. Although paddle boarding does require some balance and coordination, he says it doesn’t take long to learn.

“It definitely makes a difference in your core and upper body,” he says.

That’s another reason he likes paddle boarding. Because he gets a lower body workout when he rides his bike, paddle boarding gives him an upper body workout, not to mention allows him to cool off in the water. It’s also a fun activity that he, his wife and their two daughters can do together.

“It can be as strenuous as you want it to be,” Todd says, admitting that he’s even taken a nap on his board before.

He usually travels to Crystal River, Rainbow River, Salt Springs or the Silver River for his outings, and, for Todd, the scenery is what makes paddle boarding worthwhile.

“The Silver River is my favorite place to go,” he says. “You never know what you’ll run into.”

“IT CAN BE AS STRENUOUS AS YOU WANT IT TO BE.”

-JON TODD FROBISH

“IT’S THE HARDEST SPORT IN THE WORLD.”

-KAHLIL SMOOT

Photo by John Jernigan

Photo by John Jernigan

FAST And Furious

At the coach’s whistle, 23-year-old Erin Jackson speeds from the starting line, bent over and gliding so fast that she grazes the ground with her fingers. It’s speed skating practice at Skate-A-Way South for the Ocala Speed team, and Coach Renee Hildebrand yells, “Go, go, go!”

Born and raised in Ocala, Erin grew up skating. She spent her summers at Skate Mania’s camps and attended the weekly openskating sessions. At 11 years old, she started speed skating when her mom ran into Coach Hildebrand and told her how much Erin loved skating. The coach invited Erin and her mom to a get-together at the rink.

“After that, I was hooked and joined the team,” Erin says.

Now she has several medals under her belt, and she skates on three different

speed skating teams and a roller derby team in Jacksonville. Both skating styles are high intensity workouts, demanding lots of cardio, core and leg strength, and Erin practices between seven and 14 hours each week.

Because she’s been skating most of her life, Erin has developed a close family of skaters and finds it normal to wear spandex most of the time. Though this 23 year old plans to pursue an engineering career and earn her master’s degree in materials science, she also hopes to achieve her goal of winning senior world champion in The World Speed Skating Championships one day.

“The most rewarding part is just having a great time doing something I love,” she says.

Darling DANCER

“W hen I dance, I forget my age."� Millie Blonder holds out her hands. There’s not one wrinkle.

“I’m 80 years old,” she says. “I’ve been dancing for 45 years.”

She leans forward as if to share a secret, “It’s all this belly dancing. It keeps you young.”

She turns back to the group of three women in her exotically decorated home studio, flips on Egyptian music, claps and counts “five, six, seven, eight.” Her students line up, and Millie sits, beating a small drum. When it’s Millie’s turn to enter the dance, she moves with ease and skill.

It all started for Millie as a young girl. Born in New York in 1935, she loved watching Maria Montez in the movies.

“I wanted to be her,” she says. “Her hands were so soft and pretty.”

Millie worked for a phone company in New Jersey and didn’t start dancing until she was in her 30s. Her mother told her about Ibrahim Farrah, a performer and teacher of Middle Eastern dance, and Millie ended up studying under him for 17 years. She took the name

“THIS DANCING PULLS ARTHRITIS AWAY FROM YOU.”

-MILLIE BLONDER

Photo by John Jernigan

Photo by John Jernigan

“Zuhela” and danced in restaurants and clubs, admitting, “I came from a different world.”

When Millie retired from the phone company, she moved to Florida. She went to week-long workshops, learned choreography and taught classes at CTAE for 15 years. She’s never had to advertise, adding that her husband, Chuck, always wonders how people find her. She just laughs it off, “They just find me.”

She’s taught from her home for five years now, and she praises dance for its many health benefits. Her doctors tell her it’s the best thing she can do. Though she’s gone through back and knee surgery, a shoulder replacement and breast cancer, she’s shockingly limber and healthy.

“This dancing pulls arthritis away from you,” she says. “Especially women should dance.”

Millie plans to keep dancing for the rest of her life. And from the looks of it, it’s going to be a long one!

ROCKING And Roping

Katherine Hatfield is 57 years old and does something she never pictured herself doing. She coaches the jump rope team at Ft. McCoy School.

She’s been the school’s physical education teacher for 18 years, but she got involved with Jump Rope for Heart through the American Heart Association 12 years ago. She learned how to coach the team through workshops, conferences and training. Now her team performs about 10 times each year.

“The kids are very committed to the team, the school and the sport of rope jumping,” she says. “My work with the Ft. McCoy Jump Rope team has been one of the motivating elements that keeps me going each and every school year.”

Katherine has about 30 students between third and eighth grade on her team, and she holds practices two to three times a week for a couple of hours. She starts beginners off with single jumps before teaching them the more complicated ones. Jumping skills and techniques include partner jumps, long rope, group routines, power jumps and cartwheels.

Jumping rope is a full body workout for Katherine and her team, and she’s noticed feeling healthier and more active because of it.

“Depending on jumps, you can really get your heart beating,” she says. “Fifteen minutes of jumping burns off the calories of one candy bar.”

“FIFTEEN MINUTES OF JUMPING BURNS OFF THE CALORIES OF ONE CANDY BAR.”

-KATHERINE HATFIELD

Photo by John Jernigan

Mind And Body CONNECTION

For 29-year-old Chris De Vilbiss and 22-year-old Holly Saitta, acroyoga is all about connecting with others.

“The mental connections that are made with others during partner yoga have brought me joy and a sense of connectedness,” Holly says.

One person acts as the base, lies on their back and balances their partner on their hands and knees. The partner balancing on the base is called the flyer.

“At the advanced level, the flyer is active and performs an array of acrobatic movements while balancing on the base’s hands, feet, knees, shoulders, etc.,” Chris says.

Holly describes acroyoga as having two separate branches, solar-acrobatic and lunartherapeutic. The flyer is passive in lunartherapeutic but active in solar-acrobatic.

Holly’s been doing acroyoga for two years and is trained in lunar acroyoga and Thai massage. Chris is certified in Sadhuana Yoga Chi and has been practicing acroyoga for four years. Now they teach a weekly acroyoga class at My Yoga Connection in Gainesville.

Techniques like stability, balance and communication are necessary, but the intensity of the exercise really depends on the style of acroyoga and the people doing it.

OVER The Edge

Jasper Webb jumps, grabs onto a high rail, turns his body sideways and swings through to the other side, like it’s nothing. He and two friends, Corey Banta and Corey Nickels, met on the University of Florida campus this evening for a specific purpose: parkour.

At 41 years old, Jasper stays in shape by running along walls, jumping precisely onto small targets (like a curb from a high ledge) and swinging himself on, over or through obstacles. When he’s not teaching psychology classes at Vanguard High School or doing parkour at UF, he’s instructing kids between the ages of 5 and 16 in the art of parkour.

“I’m naturally uncoordinated, so I break it down into steps,” he says as he demonstrates the moves involved in doing a vault jump.

Jasper describes a sphere of ability that everyone has. Though levels of physical ability and body awareness can be obstacles in parkour, fear can also get in the way of doing certain things.

“Sometimes the fear will actually cause you to mess up,” he says. Banta, 24, explains that practice and confidence can help overcome those obstacles. Both he and 22-year-old Nickels remember how they started compared to what they can do now. Jasper and Banta are part of the statewide parkour association, Florida Parkour (FLPK). The name of their group, Gainesville Parkour, was created to bring together anyone interested in parkour. They’re not an official club, but they use their Facebook group to set up places and times to meet.

“It’s like skateboarding without a skateboard,” Jasper says. “You can do it anywhere.”

That’s what attracted Jasper to this sport. He’s been doing it since 2010 after his friend showed him a parkour video. He immediately saw that it was challenging but also like an art form. As an avid skateboarder, he loved that he didn’t need to buy any equipment for parkour.

“All you need is a solid sole in the front [of your shoes] and comfortable clothes,” he says.

“IT’S LIKE SKATEBOARDING WITHOUT A SKATEBOARD,”

-JASPER WEBB

Photos by John Jernigan

Hormones

Weareour

The endocrine system develops and impacts the human body via hormones.

By JoAnn Guidry

The Endocrine System Glands >>

Hypothalamus: Part of the lower middle brain, the hypothalamus releases hormones to signal the nearby pituitary gland when to secrete its hormones to the rest of the body.

T hink of hormones as our bodies’ signal callers, the quarterback of the team. Without hormones relaying the plays, our essential functions would, well, malfunction. These all-important chemical messengers are produced by our endocrine system, which is a network of glands in the body. This intricate system includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, pineal gland, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, adrenal gland, pancreas, ovaries and testes. The hormones that the endocrine system regulates control such functions as our growth and development, reproductive processes, metabolism, sleep, mood and sex drive. In other words, hormones aff ect almost every organ and cell in the human body.

the human body. “When choosing a

Pineal: Found near the center of the brain, the pineal gland releases melatonin, the hormone that controls sleep patterns and the production of hormones related to the reproductive organs.

“When choosing a medical specialty, I settled on endocrinology for several reasons,” says Dr. Henry Anhalt, an endocrinologist and Endocrine Society spokesperson. “I found endocrinology to be fascinating. And the endocrine system is truly at the center of the body’s universe.”

A butterfl

yshaped gland in the front of the neck, the thyroid hormones that control hormones also infl uence the way the body uses energy, consumes oxygen and A group of four small glands located behind the thyroid, the parathyroid works with the thyroid to control calcium and phosphorous levels vital to bone development. There are actually two adrenal glands, one each on top of both kidneys, which produce the steroid hormones cortisol, testosterone and aldosterone, as well as noradrenaline and adrenaline. Also known as the “fi ght-or-fl ight” gland, the adrenals control how we respond to stress. The adrenal glands also promote proper cardiovascular function and help control blood sugar levels during

Pituitary: Pea-sized and located at the base of the brain behind the sinuses, the pituitary gland is often referred to as the “master gland” because it greatly infl uences many other glands in the body, especially the thyroid. It produces peptide hormones that infl uence growth, lactation, healthy blood pressure, stress levels, thyroid hormones, estrogen, testosterone, egg and sperm production, as well as the body’s water balance.

Thymus: Situated in the upper chest, the thymus helps develop the body’s immune system early in life. It produces thymosins, hormones that control white blood T-cells, which our immune system utilizes to fi ght off infections. cells,

Pancreas: Located behind the stomach above the small intestine, the pancreas is surrounded by small, slightly granular endocrine cells, known as the islets of Langerhans. Islet cells secrete insulin and glucagon, both of which stimulate glucose (blood sugar) in the body.

Ovaries: Stimulated by hormones from the pituitary gland, the female ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, which promote breast development and maintain a healthy menstrual cycle.

Testes: This pair of glands produces testosterone, which is responsible for penis growth, facial and body hair, a deepening male voice, muscle and bone mass, sperm production and sex drive.

Go Awry

The endocrine system orchestrates a delicate balance of hormones for the body to function at its best. If your body has too much or too little of a certain hormone, the endocrine system sends out a correction signal. But sometimes that feedback system is disrupted, leading to a possible endocrine disorder or disease. Factors that can negatively affect the endocrine system include aging, certain diseases or health conditions, stress, the environment, genetics, tumors or an injury to an endocrine gland. Endocrine diseases are typically put into two groups: a hormone imbalance or the development of nodules or tumors in the endocrine system.

“Aging, which affects the endocrine system, is just a natural process that everyone has to undergo,” says Anhalt. “We’ve seen a burgeoning anti-aging industry spring up in the last decade, promising the fountain of youth by taking certain hormones, like growth

hormones. But the truth is that there is no scientific evidence to back these claims.”

Instead Anhalt recommends what he calls “the age-old advice of eating well, getting regular exercise and staying engaged in life to keep your endocrine system working well.” To which he also adds that “men and women need to get their regular health screenings, especially as we age, and follow their physician’s advice.”

And, according to Anhalt, the endocrine system could use a little more respect in health care.

“When it comes to patient care, doctors should look at the endocrine system’s impact on the body,” says Anhalt. “For instance, when the parathyroid malfunctions, it pulls calcium out of the body, and this can lead to osteoporosis. An adrenal gland issue can cause high blood pressure. In addition to insulin, the pancreas produces glucagons, and this has an

“When it comes to patient care, doctors should look at the endocrine system’s impact on the body.”

-Dr. Henry Anhalt

impact on liver function. The best way to put this is that endocrine system malfunction can often be the underlying cause of myriad health issues.”

There are dozens of endocrine disorders with diabetes being the most commonly diagnosed one in the United States. Diabetes occurs when the endocrine cells in the pancreas do not produce enough insulin or the body doesn’t properly use insulin, becoming insulin-resistant.

“We live in a societal environment that over stresses the pancreas,” says Anhalt. “This includes diet issues and not enough daily exercise that have led to an epidemic of obesity and in turn type 2 diabetes. And while we endocrinologists admit we really don’t know what causes type 1 diabetes, it is also on the rise. Both types of diabetes are caused by malfunctioning of the overstressed pancreas’ insulin delivery system.”

In diabetes and other endocrine diseases, such as hypothyroidism, the patient is treated with synthetic hormones to restore the body’s hormonal balance.

Common Endocrine Disorders

Hyperthyroidism: The thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to weight loss, increased heart rate, nervousness and sweating. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disorder. Other causes include growths in the thyroid gland and thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to atrial fibrillation and osteoporosis.

Hypothyroidism: The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone with common signs being fatigue, depression, dry skin, dry, brittle hair, intolerance to cold, constipation and memory problems. Hypothyroidism is usually caused by autoimmune thyroiditis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Adrenal insufficiency: When the adrenal glands release too little cortisol and sometimes aldosterone, adrenal insufficiency can occur. Symptoms include dehydration, skin changes, stomach upset and fatigue. Addison’s disease is a type of adrenal insufficiency.

Hypoparathyroidism: This is a condition where there is too little parathyroid hormone in the body, which can cause abnormally low levels of calcium in the blood. Symptoms can include nervousness, headaches, weakness with muscle cramps and spasms.

Cushing’s disease: The overproduction of a pituitary gland hormone leads to an overactive adrenal gland and can cause Cushing’s disease. The latter causes fat to accumulate in the face, back and chest and can also lead to acromegaly, in which the hands, feet and face are larger than normal.

Hypopituitarism: When the pituitary gland releases few or no hormones, hypopituitarism may develop. Women with this condition may stop getting their regular menstrual periods.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A leading cause of infertility, PCOS occurs when the ovaries produce too many androgens that interfere with the development and release of eggs.

Sources: hormone.org, webmd.com, livescience.com

By Cynthia McFarland

How your intestinal health affects your entire body and what you can do to improve it.

Everything was fine until your boss announced that he expects you to lead the big presentation at the next client meeting. Where did that queasy feeling come from? Why have you had to use the bathroom three times in the past hour? Whoever coined the phrase “butterflies in the stomach” knew exactly how you feel… and it’s not pretty.

When you’re stressed out or depressed, this can literally change the way your bowels function, hence all those bathroom

visits before your public speaking event. It works the opposite way, as well. If you’re dealing with painful stomach cramps or a

virus has you running to the bathroom with an acute case of diarrhea, you’re going to feel it mentally and emotionally, not just physically.

Mind-Gut Connecti on

“THERE IS NO ORGAN AS CLOSELY CONNECTED TO THE BRAIN AS THE GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) SYSTEM,” OBSERVES DR. DOUGLAS DROSSMAN, CO-FOUNDER OF THE CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL GI & MOTILITY DISORDERS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL. Dr. Drossman is president of the Rome Foundation that provides guidelines for diagnosis and care of functional GI disorders and also is currently in private practice in Chapel Hill where he focuses on patientcentered care.

“It is in fact ‘hardwired,’ meaning that there are direct nerve connections between the two organs,” Drossman explains. “This begins in the embryo as the neural crest, a sheet of

Lest you think you’re a freak of nature, rest assured, that’s not the case. Actually, you’re quite normal.

nerves. As the embryo grows, the nerves develop into the brain, the spinal cord and the nervous system of the GI tract—the enteric nervous system. This means that we experience emotions through our gut, and gut problems are experienced in the brain.”

Drossman points out that the mind-gut connection has been well-recognized across cultures and throughout history. Consider the following quotes:

diarrhea,

bathrooms. Over time, not going ‘when nature calls’ can lead to a slowing of motility and even constipation. People also get diarrhea when they are stressed,” notes Drossman.

A whopping 95 percent of the hormone serotonin is produced in cells found in the gut lining. But wait, isn’t serotonin the “happiness” hormone?

The small percentage of serotonin produced in the brain is known to regulate mood and happiness. However, when produced in the gut, it has other tasks, such as stimulating the growth of nerve cells and putting the immune system on alert against germs and bacteria.

LINING OF THE GUT, AND IT’S CRUCIAL FOR PROTECTING YOUR BODY AGAINST BACTERIA AND VIRUSES.

Moses Maimonidies (Ramban), 1135-1204 A.D.

Serotonin is one reason feedback continually bounces back and forth between your brain and gut.

Josh Billings (pen name of Henry Wheeler Shaw), 1818-1885 A.D.

“When under stress, the brain sends down nerve signals to activate the gut nerves to produce diarrhea, pain and other symptoms. When these gastrointestinal symptoms are persistent, we call them functional GI disorders. The brain influences the gut, and the gut influences the brain,” notes Drossman.

“When you produce pain in the gut of laboratory animals, the stress centers in the brain fi re. The neurotransmitters in the brain also act in the gut and have diff erent functions but are present in both. Corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) is a stress hormone in the brain but an infl ammatory hormone in the gut. Many stressful conditions have infl ammation of the gut.”

Whether the average person consciously realizes this connection or not, they frequently acknowledge it in comments such as, “I can’t stomach that,” and “You make me sick.”

“Changes in emotional states can change GI function. It’s common for people to become constipated when traveling, because of holding back or not being comfortable using other

The enteric nervous system in the gut has as many nerves as the spinal cord,” adds Dr. Drossman.

The hundreds of millions of neurons in this system are so powerfully complex that the enteric nervous system is often referred to as “the second brain.” It’s in charge of your digestive process and is also crucial to your immune system.

It helps to think of the GI tract as its own “ecosystem,” populated by both good and harmful bacteria. When all is well in this internal ecosystem, the beneficial bacteria dominate the population. That’s a good thing because they perform myriad helpful tasks, such as assisting in the normal digestive process and even producing antibodies that fight infection. These “good bugs” also provide constant defense against potentially harmful microorganisms that can spell digestive trouble should the balance tip in their favor.

“The bacteria in the gut can provide a barrier to penetration of

“ Man should strive to have his intestines relaxed all the days of his life. ”

“ A good set of bowels is worth more to a man than any quantity of brains. ”

“ If one ’ s bowels move, one is happy, and if they don ’ t move, one is unhappy. That is all there is to it. ”

Lin Yutang (Chinese Philosopher), The Importance of Living, (1998).

When under stress, the brain sends down signals to activate the gut nerves to diarrhea,produce pain and other symptoms.

other bacteria. They help regulate the immunity of the gut mucosa; they may play a role in the regulation of certain diseases like diabetes, neural disorders and even one’s mental state. This is a new and developing area of research,” notes Drossman.

Imagine how an oil spill wreaks havoc with the ocean’s ecosystem, upsetting the natural balance. On a smaller scale, disturbances can occur in your GI system when you introduce substances such as antibiotics and other medications (both prescription

and over the counter), preservatives and additives in processed foods, caffeine, alcohol and more. Although some of these substances may be helpful for specific reasons— think drugs for a specific medical condition or caffeine to help you stay awake on that long drive—they can upset the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, laxatives and NSAIDS (including aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) destroy good bacteria as well as bad. When the good bugs die off, harmful

DO YOU NEED A PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENT?

bacteria can multiply, producing toxins that can upset the digestive process and even weaken your immune response.

An imbalance of beneficial bacteria may cause the immune system to overreact and cause inflammation. It’s well known that inflammation is at the root of many diseases and other negative bodily conditions.

“Bad bacteria can alter the immunity of the mucosa lining the gut, and it can increase permeability of the mucosa; then toxins may go into the bowel. That can cause pain and diarrhea,” Drossman explains. “Good bacteria, or in some cases antibiotics, can shift this balance, generally for

can shift this balance, generally for the better.

“When bad bacteria take over you can have an infection but also more subtle chronic symptoms

can have an infection but also more such as irritable bowel syndrome

bowel syndrome (IBS) and even inflammatory bowel disease (IBD),” he adds. “This is why there is marketing for probiotics for

PROBIOTICS ARE LIVING MICROORGANISMS (BENEFICIAL BACTERIA) SIMILAR TO THOSE FOUND NATURALLY IN YOUR INTESTINAL “ECOSYSTEM.” PREBIOTICS ARE A FOOD SOURCE FOR PROBIOTICS AND ARE OFTEN INCLUDED IN SUPPLEMENTS TO ENCOURAGE THE GROWTH AND PROLIFERATION OF HELPFUL BACTERIA. A SUPPLEMENT CONTAINING BOTH PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS IS REFERRED TO AS A “SYNBIOTIC.” BECAUSE DIFFERENT PROBIOTICS HAVE DIFFERENT EFFECTS, IT’S WISE TO ASK YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE YOU START TAKING JUST ANY PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENT. HE OR SHE CAN ADVISE YOU ON WHICH TYPE MAY BE MOST HELPFUL WITH YOUR SPECIFIC CONDITION.

REFERRED TO AS A “SYNBIOTIC.” BECAUSE DIFFERENT PROBIOTICS

digestive health, and antibiotics can treat some GI diseases.”

The fast-paced, high-stress lifestyles so common in America today—not to mention our poor eating habits and junk food addictions—are constantly upsetting our GI ecosystems. Some researchers believe this ongoing imbalance has given rise to the food allergies and autoimmune diseases so prevalent in modern society.

Common Digestive Woes

HEALTH PROBLEMS IN THE GI TRACT OFTEN INCLUDE ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS:

� BLOATING

� CONSTIPATION

� DIARRHEA

� HEARTBURN

� INCONTINENCE

� PAIN IN THE BELLY

� NAUSEA AND VOMITING

� SWALLOWING PROBLEMS

� WEIGHT GAIN OR LOSS

A doctor’s visit is necessary to determine the actual cause(s). Your doctor may order various testing, including colonoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, capsule endoscopy and/or endoscopic ultrasound.

Among the most common GI disorders are: IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS): CHRONIC CONDITION AFFECTING THE LARGE INTESTINE (COLON)

Symptoms: Stomach cramps, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation

Treatment: Some people need medication; others can control symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress

CROHN’S DISEASE: A TYPE OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) THAT CAUSES CHRONIC INFLAMMATION OF THE ENTIRE DIGESTIVE TRACT

Symptoms: Abdominal pain and diarrhea (sometimes bloody), weight loss

Treatment: Lifestyle changes (exercise and healthy diet), over-the-counter antidiarrhetics and prescription anti-inflammatory medication

ULCERATIVE COLITIS: A TYPE OF IBD IN WHICH INFLAMMATION AFFECTS THE LARGE INTESTINE (COLON AND RECTUM)

Symptoms: Abdominal pain/discomfort, blood or pus in stool, fever, weight loss, frequent diarrhea, fatigue, reduced appetite, sudden and constant feeling of having to move the bowels

Treatment: Drug therapy; surgery may be required

GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD): DIGESTIVE DISORDER CAUSED WHEN THE LOWER ESOPHAGEAL SPHINCTER (RING OF MUSCLE BETWEEN THE ESOPHAGUS AND STOMACH) RELAXES INAPPROPRIATELY, ALLOWING STOMACH CONTENTS TO FLOW UP INTO THE ESOPHAGUS, CAUSING ACID INDIGESTION (HEARTBURN)

(HEARTBURN)

Symptoms: Acid indigestion/heartburn

Treatment: Lifestyle and dietary changes, including limiting foods that cause reflux, decreasing portion size; medication may also be useful

CELIAC DISEASE: AN IMMUNE REACTION TO EATING GLUTEN (A PROTEIN FOUND IN WHEAT, BARLEY AND RYE) THAT CAUSES INFLAMMATION, WHICH DAMAGES THE LINING OF THE SMALL INTESTINE AND PREVENTS ABSORPTION OF SOME NUTRIENTS

WHICH DAMAGES THE LINING OF THE ABSORPTION OF SOME NUTRIENTS

Symptoms: Bloating, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, weight loss or weight gain, fatigue, joint pain, “brain fog”

constipation, heartburn, weight loss or weight

Treatment: Eating a totally glutenfree diet

Eating For Better Gut Health

WHAT YOU EAT INFLUENCES THE HEALTH AND FUNCTION OF YOUR GI SYSTEM— FOR BETTER AND FOR WORSE.

“Overeating can lead to bloating and other abdominal discomfort,” says Drossman. “High-fat foods, alcohol, excess caffeine and sugar substitutes, such as sorbitol, can lead to diarrhea. Avoid excesses of these items, eat a balanced diet on a regular schedule and don’t overeat.”

The following basic guidelines can help make your GI system happier:

� CUT BACK ON PROCESSED FOODS.

� REDUCE MEAT CONSUMPTION.

� AVOID SIMPLE SUGARS AND STARCHES. (THEY’RE THE FAVORITE FOODS OF HARMFUL BACTERIA.)

� ELIMINATE HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP FROM YOUR DIET.

� AVOID ALL TRANS-FATS (“PARTIALLYHYDROGENATED” OILS).

� INCREASE FIBER INTAKE FROM FRUITS AND VEGETABLES.

� EAT THE RIGHT BALANCE OF OMEGA-3 TO OMEGA-6 FATS (SWAP YELLOW COOKING OILS—CORN, VEGETABLE, CANOLA, ETC.—FOR COCONUT OIL AND BUTTER FROM GRASS-FED COWS).

� EAT MORE FERMENTED FOODS (SAUERKRAUT, KIMCHI, PICKLES, CHUTNEYS, YOGURT, BUTTERMILK, KEFIR, SOUR CREAM, ETC.).

� WATCH ALCOHOL INTAKE, AND IF YOU DO INDULGE, MAKE IT RED WINE. (POLYPHENOLS IN RED WINE HAVE BENEFICIAL PREBIOTICS HELPFUL FOR INCREASING THE RATIO OF GOOD GUT BACTERIA.)

� IF YOU EAT CHOCOLATE, CHOOSE DARK VARIETIES WITH AT LEAST 70 PERCENT CACAO CONTENT.

� CONSIDER TAKING A DAILY PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENT.

Drossman adds that exercise and stress management are also crucial for optimal GI function. Exercise is especially helpful when you’re feeling stressed out. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, and practice deep breathing or other relaxation techniques that work for you.

GO EASY ON THE MEAT

IN A RECENT STUDY, HARVARD UNIVERSITY SCIENTISTS FOUND THAT A DIET BASED AROUND MEAT INCREASES THE POPULATION AND ACTIVITY OF BILOPHILA WADSWORTHIA IN THE DIGESTIVE TRACT. THESE PARTICULAR BACTERIA ARE TIED TO A HOST OF NASTY ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING INFLAMMATION, INCREASED BILE PRODUCTION AND COLITIS, AND ARE ALSO CAPABLE OF TRIGGERING INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD). WE’RE NOT SAYING YOU HAVE TO BECOME A VEGETARIAN, BUT IF YOU WANT TO EAT MEAT, EAT IT IN MODERATION, AND WHEN YOU DO, CHOOSE LEAN CUTS.

AWAY

YOU MAY WANT TO RETHINK FOODS AND BEVERAGES CONTAINING ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS. ONE STUDY FOUND THAT 12 WEEKS OF REGULAR CONSUMPTION OF THE ARTIFICIAL SWEETENER SUCRALOSE RESULTED IN AN INCREASE IN WEIGHT, EVEN THOUGH THE NUMBER OF CALORIES DID NOT INCREASE. OTHER NEGATIVE FINDINGS INCLUDED A NOTABLE DROP IN BENEFICIAL INTESTINAL BACTERIA.

STEP FROMAWAYTHE DIET SODA

Learn More

INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR FUNCTIONAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS, INC.

(IFFGD) serves as a resource for digestive health knowledge and offers support and assistance about functional gastrointestinal and motility disorders.

IFFGD.ORG

(888) 964-2001

THE ROME FOUNDATION

An independent not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides support for activities designed to create scientific data and educational information to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs).

ROMEFOUNDATION.ORG

(919) 537-9461

DROSSMAN CENTER

Committed to innovative physician training and education in patient-centered care to enhance physician/patient relationships and improve clinical outcomes.

DROSSMANCENTER.COM

(919) 360-1234

DILEMMA

According to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a hefty 69 percent of Americans 20 and older are considered overweight or obese. In that latter category, the percentage is 34.9 or 78.6 million obese American adults. Houston, we have a weight problem.

Of course, where there’s a problem, there’s always someone selling a solution. Say hello to the dieting industry. Every year, dozens of new diet plans, books and supplements promise the holy grail of losing weight. And there are plenty of customers. The research firm Marketdata Enterprises, which has tracked the weight loss industry since 1989, estimates 100 million Americans are dieting at some point during a calendar year.

69% of Americans

Those same statistics showed that the weight loss market has grown into a $60 billion industry.

But the latest Marketdata research also indicates that the weight loss market is beginning to show declines. A 2015 mass survey noted that consumers are striving to eat healthier sans any particular weight loss program. Maybe the new dieting trend this year will be not to diet.

That would be good news to Dr. Traci Mann. A professor of psychology at the University of Minnesota, Mann has studied the psychology of eating, dieting and self-control for two decades.

At UM, she founded the Health and Eating Lab. Hence the title of her 2015 book, Secrets From The Eating Lab: The Science of Weight

20 or older are considered overweight or obese.

Loss, the Myth of Willpower, and Why You Should Never Diet Again. Dr. Mann recently took time to visit with Healthy Living about what she’s learned from her research.

HL:

In your lab, do research participants know you’re studying eating and dieting?

MANN: No, there is no sign that says “Health and Eating Lab.” It’s just known as the Mann Lab. We tell participants that we’re studying topics like memory, moods, communication and cognitive abilities. But at some point, we offer them snacks and then our real studies begin. We do tell them afterward that the study really was about eating.

HL: So after 20 years of research, do you think weight loss diets work?

MANN: No, weight loss diets do not work in the long term because our bodies and our brains are not hardwired to resist food. This is part of our biological imperative to survive.

HL: But there are people who do lose weight and will tell you that diets do work, right?

MANN: Yes, people can lose weight, usually about 10 percent of their starting weight, on a diet in what I call the honeymoon stage. This varies in different people but is usually in the first six to 12 months of being on a diet. After that time, biological changes caused by dieting kick in. Actually, neurological changes in brain chemistry start almost as soon as people begin dieting; this causes people to become preoccupied, obsessed with food. As the diet progresses into that six-month period, there are changes in the hormones that affect eating; your body produces more of the ones that make you hungry and less of the ones that make you feel satisfied. And then your body goes into starvation mode, and your metabolism becomes very efficient with fewer calories. People call it the battle of the bulge, but it’s actually a battle against our body’s survival processes.

HL: You suggest that instead of dieting to reach an impossible perfect weight, people should aim for their genetic set weight range. What is that, and why is it important?

MANN: Genetics account for 70 percent of the variability of a person’s weight. Our genetic set weight range is that weight—give or take 15

pounds either way—that our body can function at without kicking in those biological processes we just discussed. People should strive for living on the lower end of their set weight. Without starving yourself and with regular moderate exercise, it is a sensible, healthy weight.

HL: You’ve developed what you call 12 smart regulation strategies for living on the lower end of your set weight. Would you share one with our readers?

MANN: One of my favorites is veggies first. In study after study, we showed that people will eat veggies or any other healthy food if it’s served first and particularly with no other food. Think about when you go to a restaurant and order a salad that comes before your meal. You eat all of that salad. So at home, do the same thing. Put veggies or a salad on the table before any other food. Even better, eat them before you even prepare any other food.

HL: Anything you want to add in conclusion?

MANN: People should shift the focus away from this perfect weight obsession. Just focus instead on overall health and well-being.

Weight loss diets do not work in the long term because our bodies and our brains are not hardwired to resist food.

STILL THINKING OF TRYING A POPULAR DIET?

PALEO: The premise is that if our hunter-gatherer ancestors didn’t eat it, we shouldn’t either. This means eating a diet of meat, fish, poultry, veggies, fruits and nuts. Not on the menu are whole grains, dairy, legumes, refined sugars and processed foods. The Paleo Diet doesn’t focus on calories but instead on achieving ideal general health.

“If done correctly, the Paleo diet can be healthy,” says Hazen. “Swapping white bread for broccoli is healthy. But adding a pound of beef to each meal is not.”

5:2 FAST: This one is based on the principle of intermittent fasting, where you eat at certain times and fast during other times. On the 5:2 diet, you eat normally five days a week and cut your daily calorie total to about 25 percent of your normal intake for two nonconsecutive days of the week. Calculating that most women eat 2,000 calories a day and men eat 2,500, this allows women 500 calories and men 600 calories on those two fasting days.

ITH SO MANY DIETS AVAILABLE, HEALTHY LIVING TURNED TO KYLE HAZEN, A REGISTERED DIETITIAN NUTRITIONIST (RDN) AND MEMBER OF THE ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS, TO ASSESS A FEW OF THE MOST POPULAR WEIGHT LOSS DIETS.

W“Most people are likely to experience hunger with irritability and mood swings on the fasting days,” says Hazen. “And there’s the potential of overeating on the days directly after the fasting day. And this diet does not focus on healthy eating behaviors on the five non-fasting days.”

VIRGIN: Named for its founder, nutritionist JJ Virgin, this diet is based on the idea that food intolerances cause inflammation in the body and are the underlying causes of weight gain in many people. The seven foods that likely cause food intolerances are gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, corn, peanuts and artificial sweeteners. The premise is that if you eliminate these foods from your diet, you’ll feel better and lose weight. For the first 21 days on the diet, all seven foods are not allowed. After that period and over the next four weeks, you slowly reintroduce one of these foods and see how you react. A bad reaction means you eliminate that food permanently from your diet. There is no calorie counting, but the focus instead is on portion size: A quarter of your plate should be lean protein, a quarter healthy fats, two-thirds leafy greens or veggies and then high-fiber, low-sugar foods.

“While weight loss is a great selling point in this diet, eliminating hidden food allergens can lead to feeling healthier,” says Hazen. “But portion control is just another way to count calories.”

VB6: The acronym stands for Vegan Before 6pm, meaning no animal-based foods before that time. Not a calorie-restrictive diet, it’s based on six principles for better health: eat more fruits and veggies; eat less animal products; eat no or almost no junk or processed foods; cook real food at home with fresh ingredients; choose quality over quantity; don’t focus on weight, focus on health.

“Focusing on eating more fruits and vegetables is never a bad thing,” says Hazen. “But everything you do before 6pm can be undone after 6pm. While there is no calorie restriction, the restriction in the types of food you eat will reduce your calorie intake.”

DUKAN: With four phases, this is a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet with no calorie counting. Instead, you eat from a list of 100 allowed foods with portion sizes determined by how hungry you are. During Phase 1, you’re on a lean protein, no carb diet for an average of five days to achieve quick weight loss. Phase one bans even veggies and seriously restricts fats. The next three phases gradually reintroduce some fruits, veggies and carbs. In the final phase, you have a proteinonly day once a week. The goal is for a gradual weight loss of up to two pounds a

only day once a week. The week to promote long-term

Hey Lady Lake, Get Fit with Too Your Health Spa V

Fred and Kari Schweitz, owners of Too Your Health Spa, have been in the fitness business for 37 years. This month, they’re opening their newest health spa to get the community of Lady Lake in its best shape ever.

The doors of the new 16,000-squarefoot facility will open in the middle of January, and the spa will be open 24/7 from then on. It will include a full schedule of fitness classes like Zumba, yoga, Pilates, spinning, aquacise, group power, bootcamp and more held in a large aerobics room. Members can enjoy the 60-foot heated pool, infrared sauna and whirlpool for post-workout recovery. They can play on the three regulation racquetball courts or watch a match through the viewing windows.

Personal trainers will be available to those who’d like one-on-one coaching during their workout. Seasoned athletes will love Too Your Health Spa V as well—it will have the most complete free weight room in the area.

And for the kids? Swimming lessons in the 60-foot heated swimming pool will be offered. Free babysitting is

available on-site. And although all that may sound pricey, Fred makes sure his members get the best prices possible.

“In the 37 years I’ve been in business, I have physically built and managed each location. By keeping my costs in line, I’ve been able to pass on the savings to our members, so we’re providing the most affordable, most reasonable health program, including amenities. I feel personally responsible to provide a facility that’s reasonably priced to everyone so they can take care of their No. 1 responsibility: themselves,” Fred says.

Just as important as all the equipment and perks is the atmosphere.

“We want people to connect—walking in the doors, being greeted by people who care about them, having people present to address their needs and making them feel like they’re members,” Fred explains.

His wife, Kari, will be the manager of the new location. Fred says she strives to improve members’ experiences and ensure they’re getting the results they want.

Fred and Kari would like to extend an invitation to every member of the Lady Lake community who would like to focus on their well-being.

“In the 37 years we’ve been in business, we’ve always felt a sense of commitment to make a difference in the community and we want to continue that same satisfaction. We open our doors to people that would enjoy a friendly environment and a variety of amenities to make their life better.”

Two new members can join together for $99 each at any of the original facilities. Investors interested in owning part of the franchise and have a passion for building community health should contact Fred and Kari Schweitz at (352) 286-6771

Too Your Health Spa opens its fifth location in Lady Lake, delivering superior fitness at unbelievable prices.

We want people to connect— walking in the doors, being greeted by people who care about them.

› Fred Schweitz

Kari and Fred Schweitz

All About That Waist

According to the study, excess baggage around your waist places fat in closer proximity to vital organs and can be more deadly than obesity itself. Appearing in the latest edition of Annals of Internal Medicine, the study followed 15,000 participants, with researchers estimating that men with bigger bellies have twice the mortality rate than men who are just obese. Women had 1.5 times the risk.

One new study, with its shocking conclusions regarding body weight, may have some people jogging to the nearest gym.

Beneficial Bones

By Katie McPherson

Bone broth is an ancient health food that is making its way back onto the menu. Now Hollywood stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Shailene Woodley are touting bone broth’s benefits during interviews, and the soup is even part of the diet prescribed to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bone broth is produced by boiling animal bones, particularly joints, for six to 12 hours. The result is a nutrient-rich liquid loaded with calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and a host of other trace minerals. It’s known to help with IBS stomach conditions, autoimmune support, detox and rheumatoid arthritis. Some say it helps boost energy and focus. Its high protein and gelatin content protect the digestive tract and aid in nutrient absorption. Glycosaminoglycans are also found in bone broth, an essential component to our bodies’ ability to absorb shock while moving (and they’re

notably hard to find in other foods).

Bone broth can be used in soups, stews, gravies and even cocktails or can be enjoyed the simple way, with a bowl and spoon. Although making broth may sound like a big undertaking, Sally Fallon Morell, author of Nourishing Broth: An Old-Fashioned Remedy for the Modern World, says home cooks need not feel overwhelmed. Published in 1996, her book was one of the first to cover the health benefits of preparing broth at home.

“If you really want to make it easy, get a slow cooker,” she explains. “Whenever we eat chicken, I save the bones in a plastic bag. It takes the bones of two chickens to fill up the Crockpot. I always add a split pig’s foot or some chicken feet because the feet have so much collagen in them.” Simply allow the bones to simmer for 12 hours, and voilà. Each set of bones can be used twice. But how can you tell if you’ve made a quality broth?

“That first pitcher you get from the first cooking, that should gel. It should be like jelly when it cools down. The second batch won’t gel as much but will still be good for you. If you’ve not done a lot of cooking and you do this for the first time, you can be really proud of yourself!”

And before you think a can of chicken soup from the store will have to do, think again.

“There’s no melted collagen in any canned or dehydrated soups. They get a broth-like taste with MSG or various powders, even if it’s not on the label. It has none of the benefits of broth,” says Sally.

That’s right—bone broth isn’t just an athletic aid but also the beauty buff’s best friend thanks to high collagen content.

“Broth feeds your collagen, and we have more collagen tissue than any other kind in our body, more than muscle and bone. It’s in all our organs, our eyes, everywhere. Specifically, there’s a layer of collagen under the gut lining and under your skin, so when your collagen is good, your skin is good and your gut works properly,” Sally says. “My mother always said chicken broth gave you beautiful skin. When she died in her 80s, she had no wrinkles!”

If you’d like to try making bone broth at home, check out Sally’s Nourishing Broth at nourishingbroth.com. We’ve got a few starter recipes to experiment with here.

Broth feeds your collagen, and we have more collagen tissue than any other kind in our body, more than muscle and bone.

› Sally Fallon Morell

It may sound like Flintstone food, but it’s taking the nutrition world by storm (and it should).

›

Golden Chicken Rice Soup

quarts homemade chicken broth

tsp ground turmeric

cup brown rice

cup finely chopped chicken carrots, peeled and grated ripe tomato, seeded and chopped cup baby spinach leaves, chopped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Simple Slow Cooker Stock

6 cups chicken bones

2 chicken feet or 1 piece split pig’s foot 1 onion, coarsely chopped

2 tbsp vinegar

cold filtered water

Place chicken bones in a large stockpot. Add feet and onion and then vinegar and enough cold filtered water to cover bones. Let stand for 30 to 60 minutes.

› Cover pot and cook on low heat for 6 to 12 hours, checking occasionally to ensure bones remain covered with water. Add more as needed. › Remove bones with tongs or slotted spoon. Strain stock into heat-proof bowl or measuring container. If not using right away, cool to room temperature and refrigerate uncovered for several hours until fat rises to top and congeals. Skim this o if desired to use in other recipes.

Pour broth into large saucepan. Add turmeric, and place over high heat and bring to boil. › Add rice, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until rice is cooked through. › Add chicken and carrots, tomato and spinach, and simmer until cooked through. › Season with salt and pepper as desired, and serve.

Bodacious Brows

Get In Shape

Wondering how to make your brows work for you? Get your groom on, and shape your eyebrows like a professional.

1. Brush eyebrows up, and carefully trim any long hairs. This removes bulk and makes it easier to see your brows’ natural shape.

With thick and bold brows all the rage this season—and for the next few as far as we can tell—there are some tips, tricks and tools you need to master the look. Soon the world will bow to your brows!

2. Grab an eyebrow pencil, makeup brush or something straight, such as a pencil. Hold the pencil vertically against the outermost part of your nostril straight up to your brow. This marks how far inward your eyebrow should extend. Repeat by rotating the pencil to lay across the outer corner of the eye, and where it falls this time is where your brow tail should end or be extended to.

3. With a brow pencil, lightly draw the shape you’d like your brows to be. Tweeze any extra hairs growing outside the lines. Stick to tweezing below the brow— that’s how to get the best arch.

4. Using a pencil or cream formula and brush, make small strokes resembling hairs to fill sparse areas and shape where necessary.

face straight on in the mirror. Find the highest point of your eyebrow and tweeze directly below it

5. Brush through brows with a clean spoolie brush to blend so they look totally natural.

Tools, Spools and Pencils

These products are some of the beauty world’s cult favorites for managing and enhancing brows.

E.L.F. Studio Eyebrow Lifter & Filler, $3 elfcosmetics.com

Available in three shades, this double-ended pencil has an ivory end for highlighting and a built-in sharpener in the lid.

Benefit Brow Zings, $32 benefitcosmetics.com

This kit comes with pigmented gel to shape brows precisely and set them with powder. All the tools are included!

Laura Geller Brow Marker, $24 laurageller.com

This soft-tip pen is available in four shades and dries in seconds. Perfect for emergency fill-ins!

Tweezerman Brow Mousse, $12 tweezerman.com

With no stickiness or flaking, this formula holds hairs in place all day. It’s great for tinting small hairs to make thin eyebrows appear fuller.

Does the phrase “eyebrows on fleek” mean anything to you? In 2015, celebs and beauty buffs were all about perfectly groomed brows to frame the face, and it doesn’t seem like tweezers are making a comeback.

Go The Distance

Track your runs, get coached by your shoes, enjoy a healthy energy boost and more with these cool, new products.

Altra IQ

This shoe has a micro-sensor built into it to help you improve your gait and monitor things like cadence, pace, time, distance, foot pressure and ground contact time. Use your smartphone and headphones to let this shoe coach you into better form. $199

Voke Tab

For the times you’re running low on energy, pop a tablet in your mouth and enjoy a gentle boost with little to no crash. Green tea is the secret ingredient of the seven, chewable tablets within each tin. $7

Merrell’s Capra Tech Tee

You don’t have to strap your phone on your arm anymore. Instead, tuck your phone into the dry, mesh pocket of this shirt for protection and easy access. $90

Julbo Breeze Shades

Performance-sunglass company Julbo released new shades called the Breeze that have bendable earpieces to allow you to customize the glasses to your perfect fit. $180

Hydrapak Speed Cup

Stuff this cup into the waistband of your pants at your next race. This 10-gram cup is built to collapse but can hook onto your pack, too. $10

Berghaus Hyper Jacket

Now you can get caught in the rain without getting completely soaked. Weighing in at only 3.5 ounces, this waterproof jacket fully zips and has a hood for further protection. It folds up into its own pack, too. $155

Salomon Intensity Tights

When you need to brace yourself after a long run or want to power up the last incline, these are the tights for you. Available for both men and women in short and mid lengths, the tights feature non-slip hand pads on the thighs. $70 for shorts, $80 for capris, $95 for full length (men only).

Cap Pro Buff

It’s a reversible, quick-drying hat with an angled brim designed to protect your eyes when looking up at an incline. $29

NUUN Plus

Supplement your water with two of these tablets for 40 calories, 100 milligrams of potassium and 50 milligrams of sodium, calcium and magnesium to get you through longer workouts. $7

The newest products for runners were previewed at The Outdoor Retailer Market in August 2015 and will hit the shelves this spring. This new gear is sure to up your running game.

Achy Breaky Ear

Referring to this phenomena, better known as “earworms,” scientists reassure us that this endless loop of hearing a song in our heads over and over is beyond our conscious control. One Goldsmith study published in the journal Memory and Cognition showed the singing we hear in our heads is true to the actual recordings, with tempos only 10 percent off from the originals! Another study associated earworms with your body’s emotional processing. So, next time you get an annoying song stuck in your head, just go with it. It’s just your brain hard at work.

“But here’s my number, so call me maybe.” Throwing it back to the year 2012, most of us would admit to having this Top 40 hit stuck in our heads—probably more than we wished for.

Home Smart Home

But when it comes to paint colors, furnishings, accent pillows, vases, rugs and curtains, it can become a little much. Good news: There are tons of apps for that. Here are the décor apps you shouldn’t decorate another day without.

Mark on Call

by M.O.C. Interior Designer, LLC

$4.99

Considering remodeling? Try before you buy. This app replicates the dimensions of a room and allows the user to take pictures of fabrics, finishes and flooring to overlay them onto each surface.

Furnish

by District Nerds, LLC

Free Furniture ain’t cheap, so see how it would look in your home before you fork over any money. Furnish lets you try items from IKEA, Target, Crate&Barrel and more in your house, and click to buy if you fall in love.

Yard Sale Treasure Map

by Shawn Kolodgie

Free

For savvy shoppers ready to fill their spaces with trendy antiques and furnishings you can’t find elsewhere, this is the ultimate guide to yard sales within a 30-mile radius. Just plug in your ZIP code and you’re on your way!

Color Capture

by Benjamin

Free

Moore

Snap a picture of something that evokes a certain mood for you and let the app match it to one of their paint colors.

LikeThat Décor and Furniture

by JustVisual Inc.

Free See a chair that would be perfect in your living room? Snap a photo and this app will find similar pieces available for purchase so you can easily find the perfect piece.

Moodboard

by A Tiny Tribe, LLC

$9.99

Mood boards are used by designers to gather colors and images to curate a style for a room. Now create your own, all available and easy to edit on the go (so you can reference it while at the store debating a purchase).

A house needs those special touches to become a home.

Project Color

by

The Home Depot

Free

With this app, you can easily imagine your home with over 1,000 paint colors or stains to choose from. Upload or take a photo of the room, select a color from the catalog and instantly see how it will look when complete.

Photo Measures Lite

by Big Blue Pixel Inc.

Free (or $6.99 for the upgraded version)

Moving to a new place? Take pictures of your furniture, record exact dimensions on the photos and map the dimensions of each room. This will help you plan furniture placement flawlessly without any heavy lifting.

Blogs for Better Homes

Apps aren’t the only way to approach your home’s design. There are quite a few interior design blogs to peruse as well, and a handful of those stand out from the rest. We’ve curated a reading list of our favorites.

DESIGN*SPONGE

designsponge.com

That’s right—the blog that spawned the app has even more content available online. They explore spaces internationally so you can incorporate new styles.

MAGNOLIA magnoliahomes.net

Do you love Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper as much as we do? Joanna’s blog is full of gorgeous interior design and DIY projects, and you can see photos from every episode of the show to recreate a look you loved on-screen in your own home.

A BEAUTIFUL MESS abeautifulmess.com

Sisters Elsie and Emma make it possible for anyone to DIY adorable centerpieces, banners and more.

Houzz

by Houzz Inc.

Free

Like Pinterest but just for houses, Houzz has over 7 million high-res photos of interior decorations that’ll blow your mind, inspire you and help you define your own décor before your next big project.

Stanley Level

by Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

Free

For a portable level in the palm of your hand, this app is a must-have. The days of wondering if that frame is actually straight have passed.

CUPCAKES AND CASHMERE

cupcakesandcashmere.com

Emily Schuman has a famous blog, wrote a book and just finished a forthcoming home décor line, so she’s a pretty trustworthy source for your design needs. Her tutorials are easy to follow, and her modern eclectic style is to die for.

THE

PURSUIT

OF STYLE

thepursuitofstyle.com

Blogger Lindsay Speace owns an interior design firm but shares her knowledge for free online. Browse her interiors category where she breaks everything down and provides links to specific products.

A CUP OF JO

cupofjo.com

Need help adding color to a room? Got it. Going for a bohemian look? Check. Looking for affordable art? Jo showcases it all.

Chairish

by Chairish, Inc.

Free

Browse pre-loved decor from favorite brands such as Knoll and Chanel. From vintage furniture to artwork, you’ll love purchasing unique finds likely to be admired by all of your house guests.

Design* Sponge

by DWNLD, Inc.

Free

The blog that has been called “Martha Stewart Living for millenials” finally released their app, giving everyone mobile access to DIY tutorials, makeover photos and décor inspiration.

Little Kids, Big Worries

If your child has ever expressed their worry to you, you’re not the only one. Unfortunately, worrying is an incurable disease, but there are some helpful strategies kids can use to tame the worry monster anytime it rears its ugly head.

Make a list

Sit down with your child and make a list of things that worry him or her. Rank the amount of worry each item causes from most to least, and talk about some. You can ask your kids to include thoughts they have when they get worried and how their body feels. This can help you decide which worries you can work on together.

Turn in on time

Inadequate sleep can leave anyone ill-equipped to handle their stressors, so ensure your child is getting enough rest. The National

Sleep Foundation recommends 11 to 13 hours for children ages 3 to 5, 10 to 11 hours for children ages 5 to 12, and 8.5 to 9.25 hours for teens. Better Zs will have them ready to keep worries at bay.

Practice the positive spin

Come up with positive reassurances for your child’s worries, and talk them through. Are they worried their usual ride won’t pick them up from school?

Instead of thinking

“What if someone forgets to pick me up?” have them remind themselves

“I’ve never been left

at school before, so I will be picked up today, too.” Using worrisome thoughts from their list and working together on reassurances will help them comfort themselves when you’re not around.

Prepare a distraction

Think about when you try to talk to your little one and they just will not stop what they’re doing to listen. What is it they’re paying attention to?

A TV show? The family pet? Riding bikes? Any time you see a worrying spell come over your kid, immerse them in that distraction activity

that requires all their brain power, leaving none behind for anxious thoughts.

Try a Worry Eater

Polli here is a pro at gobbling up worries so they’re never to be seen again. Worry Eaters feature a zip closure mouth so kids can write down or draw their concerns, crumple them up and feed them to their Worry Eater. No worry monster can compete with their softness and adorable patterns. $22.99, haywiregroup.com.

Ease Your Worries › WOULD YOU LIKE TO WIN A WORRY EATER? › We’re giving some away this month at facebook.com/ocalastyle › Just Like our Facebook page and stay tuned for details on how to enter.

It’s harder to be a kid these days. The APA’s Stress in America Survey of 1,206 children ages 8 to 17 say they worry most often about their grades, going to college and family finances.

Money Makeover

Are you tired of your financial situation and ready for a change? There’s no better time to start than right now.

We’ll show you how to avoid making hard-to-reach goals by starting small and building on your successes.

FOLLOW A BUDGET

Making a budget will help you keep track of your monthly expenses and will show you where you need to cut back. There are several software programs, apps and spreadsheets, like mint.com and the Left to Spend app, to help you get started. When you look at your total household income, use cnnmoney.com’s formula to see if you’re spending a reasonable amount on life’s necessities:

30% housing and debt payments

26% living expenses (including food, clothing, entertainment, medical, transportation and utilities)

TAKE BABY STEPS. Start getting your finances in order by making a manageable goal, like building an emergency fund. Slowly put aside $500 to $1,000 in a separate account. Then, calculate your expenses for one month and multiply that number by three. This number is the ideal amount to keep stashed away for emergencies, according to Reader’s Digest. So, keep adding to the fund until you reach your goal.

recommends saving for the car first, since the loans may take years to pay down.

25% taxes

15% savings and retirement

4% insurance

PRIORITIZE. Don’t try to accomplish everything all at once. Instead, decide which area of your finances will make the most difference. For example, if you’re trying to pay down debt, try making an extra $100 each month by selling things you don’t need or taking a side job. But if you’re trying to save for a necessity (like a car) and pay off student loans at the same time, moneyunder30.com

PAY YOURSELF. When you’re paying bills, it’s easy to forget to pay yourself. Write yourself a check or transfer at least six percent of your paycheck to a savings or investment account. Treat it like a bill so that each month (or each paycheck) you’re saving money. Make it easier by setting up your account to automatically withdraw a specific amount and transfer it to your savings.

STAY MOTIVATED. For each small goal you achieve, make another small goal and take your financial success a step further. And instead of considering yourself a failure when you slip up, look at the progress you’ve made to keep yourself motivated.