Marion Healthy Living September 2017

Range of Cardiology Services Consultations | Nuclear & PET Stress Tests | Echocardiography | Vascular Ultrasounds & Procedures | PT -INR Clinic | Holter & Event Monitor Clinic | TEEs | Cardiac Catheterization | Peripheral Interventions | Pacemaker Clinic

Most insurances accepted. We are ICANL and AAAHC accredited. All of our physicians have hospital privileges in Marion County. Full EHR capabilities and i n-house billing.

GET TO THE heart OF THE MATTER

Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed

Dr. Siva Gummadi

Dr. Vijaya Koka

Dr. Jayanth Koneru

Dr. Hima Mikkilineni

Dr. Jigar Patel

Dr. Srisha Rao

Dr. Prem Singh

Dr. Paul Urban

When your health or the health of a family member matters most, the professionals at Cardiovascular Institute of Central Florida are here to help. OUR

Bridget Boynton, ARNP Eddice Companion , PA

Dianne McDonaldGraber, ARNP Matt Morgan, ARNP Theresa Owens, ARNP

ARNP

GOING TO BE 74 AND NOW I FEEL LIKE

William DiVitto Neurosurgery Patient

When it’s time for surgery, you can count on the team at Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital. Whether you have your surgery same-day or inpatient, our team is ready to care for you before, during and after. We want you to have the best surgical experience possible, so we make sure we’re providing a safe environment and guide you and your family through the process with care. With minimally invasive surgeries available, patients experience better results and quicker recovery. Some of our surgeries are also available with robotic-assisted technology.

Minimally

Invasive

Minimally Invasive Surgery at Ocala Health

Surgery at Ocala Health

Minimally Invasive Surgery at Ocala Health

Minimally

Invasive

Minimally Invasive Surgery at Ocala Health

Surgery at Ocala Health

Ortho Bariatric CV Oncology Women’s

Neuro

Neuro

Bypass Sleeve Revisions

Bypass Valve Replacement

Bypass Valve Replacement

Valve Repair

Valve Repair

Knee Hip Shoulder Head Neck Back

Lung Breast Colon

Hysterectomy

Uterine Fibroids

Pelvic Floor Repair

Repair

Trauma

Trauma Services

Trauma Services

For

For more information or physician referral, please call 800-530-1188 or visit ocalahealthsystem.com/surgery

For more information or physician referral, please call 800-530-1188 or visit ocalahealthsystem.com/surgery

For more information or physician referral, please call 800-530-1188 or visit

For

I’M

I’M 40!

http://woobox.com/egf8oi

›  PAGE 28

Are we helping or hurting Florida’s natural environment?

› By Cynthia McFarland

GMOs: facts, opinions and

misinformation › PAGE 24

When it comes to GMOs, there are plenty of studies and science on the table, but the average consumer has little interest in pursuing this information. › By Cynthia McFarland

when anxiety sets in

› PAGE 34

Although these stories may not make the evening news, they are powerful and worth celebrating..

› By Cynthia

McFarland

HEALTHY

beat

› PAGE 7

TRENDS | NEWS | PEOPLE

By Laurel Gillum, JoAnn Guidry, Karin FabryCushenbery and Katie McPherson

› 8 What to do this month.

› 10 Music as medicine.

› 12 Out of this world.

› 14 A true diva.

› 16 Grade “A” accessories.

HEALTHY dose

› PAGE 17

INSIGHT | ADVICE | SOLUTIONS

By Laurel Gillum and JoAnn Guidry

› 18 What your gums are telling you.

› 19 Cutting-edge cardiac cath.

› 20 Chemically charged.

HEALTHY body

› PAGE 39

NUTRITION | FITNESS | BEAUTY

By Angelique Anacleto and

Robin

Fannon

› 40 Year of beauty: hips.

› 42 Fall flavors.

HEALTHY vibe

› PAGE 43

MIND | SPIRIT | FINANCE

By Angelique Anacleto, Brett Ballantini and Laurel Gillum

› 44 Gardening by the season.

› 46 E-books with ease.

› 48 Design on a dime.

on the cover

Photo by Richard Rossetto

Photo by Richard Rossetto

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

Nicolas Blaser Vice President – Business Services O cer BB&T

Amanda Brown Director of Marketing and Communications RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF OCALA, P.A.

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

Kristina Donohue Mission Advancement Coordinator THE CENTERS

Derek Farr, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon TWIN PALMS ORTHOPEDICS

Mark Jank, M.D. Ophthalmology OCALA EYE

Brittney Marthaller Director, Marketing & Public Relations OCALA HEALTH

Linda McKenna Director of Business Development SIGNATURE HOMENOW

Amy McLaughlin, APR, CPRC Director, Marketing & Communications SEVEN RIVERS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Katie Myers, APR Director of Marketing and Public Relations CITRUS MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM

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

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

Ashley Hersey Clinical Liaison KINDRED HOSPITAL OCALA

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

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

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

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

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Cealia Athanason cealia@ocalastyle.com

FOOD & LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Robin Fannon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angelique Anacleto

Brett Ballantini

Diane Bedard

Jim Gibson

Laurel Gillum

JoAnn Guidry

Bonnie Kretchik

Cynthia McFarland

Katie McPherson

Nick Steele

Sean Trapani

ART art@healthylivingmagazines.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jessi Miller

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kristy Taylor

Amber Laudicina

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Jernigan

Sheila Hartley

Richard Rossetto 123rf.com

SALES DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson deanjohnson@healthylivingmagazines.com

SALES MANAGER

Sharon Morgan

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Liza Fritz

Skip Linderman

Peggy Sue Munday

Cecilia Sarco

Lori Tani

Tammy Sontag

DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

Debra McQueen

Rick Shaw

We Proudly Welcome Kathleen Telusma, DPM

Treatment of Common Ailments such as Bunions, Hammertoes, Heel Pain, Fractures, Sprains, Athlete’s Foot, Neuromas, Tendonitis

Ankle Arthroscopy • Laser Foot Surgery

Sports Related Injuries

Children’s Foot Care • Custom Orthotics

Dr. Kathleen Telusma grew up in Orlando, Florida. She remained in Orlando for her college education where she received a BS in molecular biology and microbiology from the University of Central Florida. She went on to continue her medical education in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at Temple University where she earned her Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Telusma went on to finish her medical training by completing her surgical residency at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. Upon the conclusion of residency, she sought to return to Central Florida for practice. She is now happy to be the newest addition to Family Foot and Ankle. She treats a variety of foot and ankle pathologies with interests, including dermatology, wound care, bunions, hammertoes and heel pain. Sheila

a super smoothie

at-home vegan mango kale moothie

1 whole banana

1⁄2 cup mango, diced

2 leaves Kale

1⁄2 cup pineapple juice

1 Tbsp almonds

1 Tbsp Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Vegan Protein

1 cup Ice

Blend ingredients in blender until smooth, and serve cold.

Not into making your own smoothies at home? Smoothie King on College Road in Ocala has a great assortment to try out!

Recipe and photo courtesy of Smoothie King

day by day

Fun events, helpful tips and monthly to-do’s for September

Schedule a routine eye exam.

Crystal River Sprint Triathlon Series Race #2 at the Breakfast Station

Delete one social media app.

labor day

Spend quality time with family and friends.

Bake chocolate chip cookies for the office. Do a random act of kindness for someone else.

17

Beat the Sheri 5K Run at the Courthouse Square in downtown

Inverness

Ask if the neighbor needs help with yardwork or chores.

Plan to attend Ocala Health’s diabetes support group tomorrow at 10:30am.

Start planning a winter vacation. Clean and organize the pantry.

Date night: Home Again movie premieres

Grandparent’s Day: Write a letter to or

Jog for 20 minutes around Ocala’s Historic District.

Compliment someone at work.

Plan to attend Ocala Health’s diabetes cooking demo class tomorrow at 10:30am.

Book Airbnb or hotel for winter vacation.

Family day after school at the Sky Zone Ocala Trampoline Park

Rollerblade the Greenway with friends.

Royal Run 5K & 1 Mile Walk at the Courthouse Square in downtown Inverness

Go for a walk around the block.

Book flight/rental car if needed for winter vacation. Update all electronics with the newest software. Finish grocery list and place online order.

Cornerstone Leads the Way 5K at The Cornerstone School in Ocala

Take a trip to the library for a new book.

JUST JUMP

Just like the kids have been telling you—Sky Zone Ocala Trampoline Park is now open! Before you sit out and watch, however, consider these five benefits our new favorite sport has to o er.

Plan itinerary for winter vacation.

Vacuum under couch and rugs.

• Bouncing is a fun way to lose weight and keep fit.

• Jumping increases the lymphatic flow in the body.

• Trampolines help reduce cellulite.

• Jumping may strengthen the skeletal system and increase bone mass.

• Jumping also increases oxygen circulation, leading to increased cell energy.

Cardio

Cardio

Cardio

Cardio

the music connection

Ocala-based guardianship organization brings the joy of music to dementia patients.

› By JoAnn Guidry

Smiles. Feet tapping. Dancing.

Such was the immediate response by Ocala Health and Rehabilitation’s Memory Care Unit patients as they listened to music via iPod headphones. The iPods were the initial six of the Heart of Florida’s Alive Inside project. Heart of Florida is a chapter of the Florida State Guardianship Association. The latter is a non-profit dedicated to promoting the protection, dignity and rights of incapacitated people, as well as increasing the professionalism of guardianship through education, networking and legislative action.

“The Alive Inside project was initiated by then Heart of Florida chapter president Olivia Baird,” says Herman Hale, a retired registered nurse, professional guardian and current Heart of Florida chapter president. “It was inspired by a movie of the same name about a social worker who used music therapy for dementia patients and had very positive results. Olivia thought this would be a great project for us to take on this year.”

After the iPods were purchased at a discount through Walmart, Brandon Jones of Boy Scout Troop 564 agreed to program the music as part of his community service

project. Jones programed 30-40 songs per iPod, including the music genres of blues, country, classical, big band, religious and the ‘50s. Once the iPods were programmed, they were brought in early April to Ocala Health and Rehabilitation, which had agreed to be part of the Alive Inside project.

“We were very excited to get the iPods to patients,” says Hale. “We were hoping for some positive feedback. When we arrived, Alice Constant, the activities director at OHR, had a room full of Memory Care Unit residents.

As the iPods were passed around, the response was amazing.”

Constant agrees, saying, “Patients smiled right away; some got up and started dancing. It was wonderful to see that kind of response. Now the iPods are available every day to patients, and many

request them.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, research has shown that music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interaction, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements. This, according to the AFA, is because music influences the motor center of the brain that responds directly to auditory rhythmic cues.

“Alice (Constant) is compiling outcome data for us to use to show how positive the program is,” says Hale. “We want to expand the program to other dementia facilities. We want Alive Inside to become a community-wide project.”

the right stuff

NASA astronaut William Shepherd will be the guest speaker for the Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition Lecture Series on October 12.

›

By JoAnn Guidry

From the depths of the ocean to the gateway to space, William Shepherd has always had the right stu .

Shepherd, a retired U.S. Navy captain, has a résumé that includes underwater demolition frogman, Navy SEAL, NASA astronaut and senior government o cial with the Department of Defense. Shepherd fl ew on three space shuttle fl ights (1988, 1990 and 1992) as a mission specialist and fl ight engineer. In 1993, he was selected by NASA’s administrator to be the fi rst program manager for the International Space Station. From October 2000 to March 2001, Shepherd’s crew spent four and a half months on the ISS, establishing the space outpost’s operational and research capabilities.

“I would describe my career as very unconventional. You

know the phrase ‘think out of the box?’ Well, most Navy SEALS think there never was a box,” says Shepherd, who left NASA in 2001. “I was inspired by my father, who was a World War II Navy pilot and later worked in various DOD contract positions. He worked for a company that was involved in the design of NASA’s Mercury and Gemini capsules. We had family friends who were Navy divers. Growing up, this was what inspired me.”

Shepherd earned his bachelor’s in aerospace engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy; his master’s and engineer’s degree in mechanical and ocean engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Accolades earned include the Spirit of St. Louis Medal, Gagarin Gold Medal, Robert H. Goddard

Trophy and the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.

“My first flight in the space shuttle in 1988 gave me a remarkable perspective of the Earth,” says Shepherd. “Every 35-40 minutes, our flight came out of darkness and then we spent half of our next orbit in sunlight. On one pass, we flew over the south Atlantic, the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, Rift Valley, Horn of Africa, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, Arabian Gulf, Iran, Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, China, Mongolia, northeast Russia and the Aleutian Islands. Then we went back into darkness over western Alaska. For four more days, we watched other parts of the Earth flash by below, 16 times a day.”

For his IHMC engagement,

Shepherd will focus on his ISS experiences.

“I want to talk about why we are involved in the ISS,” says Shepherd, who is currently a private national security and technologies consultant to government and industry. “And I will also discuss the integration of humans and machines in our modern world.”

Learn more › IHMC EVENING LECTURE SERIES › Capt. William Shepherd › Thursday, October 12 › 6-7pm ihmc.us/352-387-3050

test lab: the divacup

Do you ever see trendy foods, beauty techniques or odd products and think, “Now that I have to try?” This month in the Test Lab, I’m rocking The DivaCup, the latest and strangest tampon alternative.

› By Katie McPherson

THE CLAIMS

According to divacup.com, “The DivaCup is a reusable, bellshaped menstrual cup worn internally in the vaginal canal, collecting rather than absorbing menstrual flow.” It’s about $25 on Amazon and promises 12-hour, leak-free protection, made with health care-grade silicone and no chemicals whatsoever, unlike tampons. With stats like that I’m hopeful, in a hesitant way befitting someone who might eject a silicone dome out of her privates if she sneezes. And there’s only one way to start an experiment like this.

THE EXPERIMENT

I decide to try the product overnight at home before taking it on the road. You have to carefully fold over the top of the DivaCup, and to put it delicately, insert in whatever way is most comfortable. It’s painless because of the silicone’s fl exibility. Once in place, I completely forgot it was there for an entire night. So comfortable! So liberating! I was pleasantly surprised, and ready for the workday. The following morning, I didn’t miss shoving a tampon in my pocket or up my sleeve lest my co-workers see it and discover I’m menstruating . The DivaCup freed me from the periods-are-gross stigma. (That is, until the time it didn’t, but more on that in a moment.) Unfortunately, on fi rst check,

THE RESULTS

I noticed some spotting. I added a pantyliner, but things didn’t improve. At home, I, ahem, emptied its contents and gave it a bath, and planned to try again tomorrow. On day two, my DivaCup still wasn’t catching everything I’d like it to. By lunchtime I quit, stuck a tampon in my cardigan sleeve and headed for the bathroom. Here’s where things got interesting, because although I might not subscribe to the idea that periods are icky, many people do. And after emptying the DivaCup, I had to wash it. In the sink. Where people are. I waited until the bathroom was a ghost town, quickly washed and made a decision: no more public exits for this Diva.

The Results

Can I swear by the DivaCup? Not yet, but I want to. Our first night together was pure bliss, and afterward, I’m fairly certain user error had me inserting the device at a slight angle that led to leaks. I plan to keep trying the DivaCup at home, and maybe we’ll venture out together again once my DivaTechnique is perfected.

beyond the basics

These back-to-school products will add a little pep to your step.

globe gallery 1canoe2

decorative globes

$19.97

These 8-inch-tall globes feature cute, creative designs and are guaranteed to brighten up any bedroom or dorm room. consumercrafts.com

decorative dry erase boards

$14.97 (14x14 or 17x22)

Use these boards to stay organized and on task, all with a pop of color! consumercrafts.com

whiffer sniffers

backpack clips

($7.99 each)

These cuddly backpack clips are sure to be attention grabbers! With scents like root beer fl oat, apple pie, mixed fruit and even pizza, there’s a scent for everyone. whiffersniffers.com

bentology bento kits

($29.99-$34.99)

A little of this, and a little of that. Send your little to school with a well-rounded and cuteto-boot lunch! Now that’s creative portion control! bentology.com

bento jars

(11oz-14oz, $14.99$16.99)

Double walled and vacuum sealed, these gems will keep hot food hot for six hours and cold food cold for four hours. Say hello to a whole new level of school lunch ideas! bentology.com

sandwich cutters

($1.99 each at Target, 4 packs, $11.99 on Amazon)

Elephant, star, dinosaur, butterfl y. What do you want your sandwich to look like today? bentology.com

mini backpack by 7am

prices vary

This awardwinning vegan and crueltyfree accessory company has done it again with these super-stylish, super-comfy carryalls. 7amenfant.com

hot vs. cold

Cold water is just as e ective at reducing bacteria as washing your hands in hot water—yet another wives’ tale busted. When researchers from Rutgers University decided to take on this myth, they conducted a study on 21 participants over a six-month period. During the study, the subjects’ hands were exposed to harmless bacteria and then washed 20 times each with water at around 60°F, 79°F and 100°F. They also experimented with the amount of soap used—either 0.5, 1 or 2 milliliters. When the experiment was through, it was reported that no matter the amount of soap or the water temperature, the amount of bacteria removed when washing was the same.

your gums are talking

Dental specialists worldwide stress the importance of oral hygiene. From cardiovascular health to diabetes, gums give important clues about the well-being of our bodies.

›

By Laurel Gillum

Gum disease is an infection caused by the bacteria found in plaque that creeps in underneath the gums. This infection slowly erodes away the foundations of the teeth, a ecting the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth. The three stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis.

Surprising research has concluded that gum infections have adverse e ects not just in our mouths but throughout our whole bodies. Here are three major areas in which our oral care reflects the overall health of our bodies.

heart disease

Bacteria from gum disease can settle on the heart valves and cause permanent damage. Once this happens, the heart will be unable to work e ciently and will become more susceptible to other infections.

diabetes

Those with uncontrolled diabetes are more prone to infections. If those with diabetes also have gum disease, it either gets worse or their diabetes becomes more di cult to control—or, sometimes, both.

If the immune system has to struggle to overcome two problems at the same time, it often fails to manage either.

premature birth

Women who have active gum disease during their pregnancy are more likely to have pre-term and low birth weight babies, as the body cannot concentrate all its resources on the baby while continuously fighting o an ongoing infection in the mouth.

TAKE CONTROL

As an increasing number of medical conditions are associated with this ongoing silent infection—including rheumatoid arthritis, bowel cancer, even asthma—it is important to take proper measures. Although gum disease does not cause pain, swelling or any other alarming symptoms in its early stages, the e ects of the infection from the highly toxic bacteria echo throughout our bodies and can cause or contribute significantly to other illnesses.

Watch out for these indicators of gum disease:

› Bad breath that won’t go away

› Red or swollen gums

› Tender or bleeding gums

› Painful chewing

› Loose teeth

› Sensitive teeth

› Receding gums or longer appearing teeth

FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO PREVENT PERIODONTAL DISEASE:

1. Brush your teeth. Brushing after meals helps remove food debris and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums.

2. Floss. Make flossing a habit, at least once a day.

3. Know your risk. Age, smoking, diet and genetics can all increase your risk for periodontal disease.

4. See a periodontist. Get an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation from a dental professional. Sources: colgate.com, everydayhealth.com, perio.org

the transradial option

According to the National Cardiovascular Data Registry, there are more than 1 million cardiac catheterizations performed annually in the United States. The vast majority of those are transfemoral caths with transradial caths comprising only 16 percent of that number. But that latter percentage may be on the rise.

“Transradial caths have been around since the 1990s. The procedure has been used more in Europe than in this country,” says Dr. Jigar Patel, an interventional cardiologist at Ocala Health. “That may be because transfemoral caths are what have been primarily taught in medical schools. But that is shifting, and the tranradial cath procedure is being taught more and more.”

During a cardiac catheterization, a long, thin, hollow tube known as a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and threaded to the heart with the help of special X-rays. In transfemoral caths, this access is through the femoral artery deep in the groin area. In transradial caths, it is the much smaller radial artery in the wrist

that is utilized. Both procedures are used for diagnostic and interventional purposes, including taking X-rays, clearing artery blockages and inserting a stent to keep an artery open.

“With a transfemoral cath, there is a risk of abdominal bleeding. And following a transfemoral cath, patients have to lay flat for hours to prevent bleeding at the insertion site. Unfortunately, bleeding complications from transfemoral caths can be disastrous and even life-threatening,” says Patel. “With a transradial cath, there is no need for the patient to lay flat for hours, and bleeding complications are greatly reduced. Patients enjoy a shorter and easier recovery time. And in most cases, I feel confident in being able to send my patients home the same day without the worry of complications.”

Of course, Patel notes, “All medical procedures have risks, including transradial caths.”

There can be pain and swelling at the catheter insertion site; nerve damage to the

dialysis, someone who has had hand/wrist surgery or the elderly with compromised radial arteries, a transradial cath may not be an option.

“In my practice, my preference is to perform catherizations transradially,” says Patel. “I use the transradial cath 70 percent of the time. I think interventional cardiologists will continue to be trained in and use transradial caths.”

Thanks to a lower risk of complications, transradial cardiac catheterization is gaining ground in the United States.

›

By JoAnn Guidry

chemical

By the time you are ready to enjoy a hot cup of co ee in the morning, it’s likely you

household items. › By

Some chemicals are more harmful than others and only pose a threat when used in large quantities or after years of exposure. It is wise to keep up with what is safe and what to avoid. This precautionary measure will help you make informed decisions when it comes to the products you allow in your home.

VINYL RAIN COATS: CONTAINS PHTHALATES

Phthalates can build up on the skin or in the body, also known as bioaccumulation. Phthalates have been linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity, early puberty, asthma, cancer and endocrine disruption, especially in pregnant and breast-feeding women—even

SHAMPOO: CONTAINS PARABENS

Parabens can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, allergies and skin irritation. Look for shampoo that contains citric acid, nut oils or seed oils for a natural way to remove dirt and oil.

Also found in: Conditioners, lotions, facial and body cleansers and scrubs

SCENTED CANDLES: CONTAINS ETHANOLAMINE COMPOUNDS This ingredient alters sperm structure in males, accumulates in the body and can cause organ toxicity. Look for candles made from 100 percent beeswax or a vegetable-based wax.

Soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, hair dyes, shaving cream, lotions, para n and waxes, household cleaning products, eyeliners, mascara, eye shadows, blush, make-up bases, foundations, fragrances and sunscreens

TOOTHPASTE: CONTAINS TRICLOSAN

Triclosan has been found to disrupt hormones and thyroid function, can a ect sexual function and fertility and can cause birth defects, paralysis, immune suppression, heart problems, allergies and brain hemorrhages. According to the Environmental Working Group, even low levels of triclosan can disrupt thyroid function.

Also found in: Antibacterial cleansers, deodorants, mouthwash, dish soap, kitchen utensils such as cutting boards, mattresses, shoe insoles, baby blankets, credit cards and trash bags

educate yourself

and reproductive problems. Most people are exposed to very low levels of BPA, and the Food and Drug Administration says it is safe at levels that currently occur in food and products. If you’d like to avoid BPA, you can do so by buying products labeled “BPA-free.”

Also found in: and food and beverage storage containers made from polycarbonate plastics

Want to find out if your products receive a passing grade? Head over to the Environmental Working Group’s website at ewg.org to view the Skin Deep database of almost 70,000 personal care products and find out how healthy your products are. You can also look for EWG Verified products on store shelves and visit the website to see which brands are worthy of their approval.

have already encountered upward of 100 potentially toxic chemicals hidden in

Laurel Gillum

Ocala Neurosurgical Center Welcomes Tumor Specialist, Jacob Freeman, MD

Ocala Neurosurgical Center (ONC) is pleased to welcome neurosurgeon Jacob Freeman, MD, to its surgical team. ONC has been serving Central Florida for more than two decades, providing diagnoses and treatment of brain and spinal diseases and disorders, including brain tumor, back and neck pain, spinal stenosis, motion syndromes, epilepsy and other neurosurgical issues. Some select procedures, however, have been locally unavailable, requiring patients with certain types of skull base and ventricular (deep brain) tumors to travel out of the area for treatment. Thanks to ONC’s inclusion of Dr. Freeman, some of the most advanced tumor surgeries will now be available here in Marion County. Dr. Freeman has completed two skull base surgery fellowships with a concentration on endoscopic surgical procedures, including endoscopic endonasal surgery, in which a tiny camera mounted on an endoscope can be inserted through a nasal passage to explore areas at the base of the skull, preventing or minimizing the need for incisions in the face or head. The endoscope can also be used to explore the ventricular system (the fluid-filled spaces located deep within the brain) to biopsy tumors in this region and restore the normal flow of

cerebrospinal fluid in patients with a condition called hydrocephalus.

“With the neuro-endoscope, we are now able to reach areas in the center of the brain through a 2-centimeter incision on the scalp in far less time than before,” says Dr. Freeman.

During traditional brain tumor surgery, the endoscope can be used to maximize the resection. With a variety of straight and angled tips, the surgeon can see around corners to remove any residual tumor.

“Endoscopic surgery has revolutionized the way we approach and remove select tumors of the brain and skull base. This represents a tremendous advance in neurosurgical care,” says Dr. Freeman.

Dr. Freeman will work primarily at Munroe Regional Medical Center, where ONC remains the exclusive provider of neurosurgical services to the residents of Central Florida. For patients with brain tumors and other conditions, treatment is now much closer to home.

“It’s both humbling and an honor to take part in these life-saving operations every day,” says Dr. Freeman.

Of his move to join ONC, Dr. Freeman states, “I chose ONC because the surgeons are of the highest character. They are known for both quality of care and surgical expertise. I’m able to add to ONC’s services and establish comprehensive, state-ofthe-art tumor treatment here in Central Florida. I will

Thanks to ONC’s inclusion of Dr. Freeman, some of the most advanced tumor surgeries will now be available here in Marion County.

Truly Living

Tenants of The Estates at Hawthorne Village of Ocala enjoy a place they call ‘home’ and a community that cares.

Right At Home

When Ocala native Robert Siniard, Jr. isn’t walking outside enjoying the beautiful grounds, or engaged in one of the many Life Enrichment Activities available at The Estates at Hawthorne Village of Ocala, he is likely relaxing watching one of his favorite TV programs on his new 48-inch television. This 89 year old admits it was coincidence that he stopped by The Estates a few years ago when an open house was going on.

“I spent the afternoon with Sales Manager, Christy,” he says. “I thought, ‘My goodness, this is a beautiful place.’”

Bob, as he’s known, sold his house and moved into his cozy apartment home at The Estates in September 2016. He enjoys participating in chair yoga, attending the many outings and adventures available at The Estates, as well as spending time with his friends at meals.

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” he says. “The people are so good here.”

Bob grew up on a farm until he served in the military when he was 20 years old. He then managed Cummer Lime & Manufacturing Company Quarry for 42 years. When he moved to

The Estates, he felt at home immediately, and he loves not having to maintain a home and a yard.

“I remember saying, ‘When I retire, I’m not raking leaves or mowing the lawn,’” Bob laughs.

A Caring Community

An African mask, a Chinese relic and photos from all over the world cover the walls of Peg Wallace’s apartment home. Now 82 years old, she sits on the couch next to her guitar, and shares the story of a favorite photo displayed in her home. The photo is of her husband, John, flying over a hurdle on the back of a show horse.

Peg and John worked on a few horse farms before owning and running one here in Ocala. After Peg’s husband passed, she continued to work their farm until she retired in 1996. A few years

Peg Wallace

Robert Siniard, Jr.

ago, she and a group of friends came to The Estates and enjoyed lunch and a tour. Peg had visited friends in many retirement communities, but she especially loved what she saw at The Estates.

Two years ago, Peg made the decision to move in, and she’s never looked back. At The Estates, everything is taken care of.

“I think it’s great to live here,” she says. “The sta knock themselves out for us. I don’t even have to change a lightbulb.”

Peg enjoys utilizing her free membership to AJ’s Fitness Center, the onsite fitness center in the Bounce Back Gym, available to all Estates tenants. Peg says she realizes the benefits of staying healthy and commits to her work-outs three times a week. She grew up playing guitar at a studio in Roanoke, Virginia, and she even taught Wayne Newton a few guitar lessons when he was 7 years old. She plans on finding more time for guitar-playing in between the many activities she currently enjoys.

The Estates felt like home to Peg within a couple days of moving in. She loves her friends, the sta and the various events and outings.

In Good Company

Kay Holbrook’s apartment home is bright and welcoming and showcases her personal signature style with white furniture and royal blue accents. Her couch sits in front of a large window that overlooks the courtyard. This 79 year old lives with her partner in crime, Bitsey—a Yorkie-Poo that is popular with all of Kay’s friends.

“The people here are fantastic,” she says.

Kay is from Baltimore, Maryland, but she moved to Ocala in 1983, working as a nurse practitioner and also teaching nursing courses at both Webster College and College of Central Florida.

After her husband passed, she met Bitsey and lived with her sweet companion for nine years before discovering The Estates.

“My dog is my life. I had been alone for nine years,” she says. “I have a better life socializing [now], since my move to The Estates.”

The first thing Kay noticed about The Estates was its luxurious ambiance. She moved into her apartment home in June of this year, and it already feels like home. She enjoys collecting wooden birdhouses, relaxing, reading, spending time with her friends and walking Bitsey outside through the lovely, well-maintained grounds of the retirement campus.

“Just looking out my window puts [me] in a good mood,” Kay says.

All-Inclusive, Worry-Free Living

Hawthorne Village of Ocala is a not-for-profit, full-service retirement community, conveniently located near Paddock Mall, major health care providers and a variety of cultural and historical venues. The Estates of Hawthorne Village o ers exquisite apartment homes for the independent retiree, who seeks an active lifestyle with an all-inclusive monthly rent. Worry-free and maintenance-free living awaits you at The Estates, as weekly housekeeping and linen service, two restaurant-style meals per day, transportation to medical appointments and scheduled life enrichment activities are just a sampling of what is available to the tenants. The Inn at Hawthorne Village of Ocala is a lovely, homelike setting for those individuals who need assistance with daily self-care in a supportive and attractive environment.

As part of a full-service retirement community, Hawthorne Village of Ocala provides a full spectrum of care to meet all of your health care needs, including a state-of-the-art inpatient and outpatient Bounce Back Rehab and skilled nursing—all of this, on one beautifully manicured and easily accessible campus.

Kay Holbrook

FACTS, OPINIONS & MISINFORMATION

RESEARCHING THE TOPIC OF GMOS, I COULDN’T HELP BUT THINK OF THE POLITICS IN OUR COUNTRY OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS. EACH SIDE IS STEADFASTLY FIRM IN THE BELIEF THAT THEIR VIEW IS RIGHT, WHICH MAKES THE OTHER SIDE WRONG, EVEN THOUGH THOSE FIRMLY HELD BELIEFS MAY OR MAY NOT BE BASED IN FACT.

WHEN IT COMES TO GMOS, THERE ARE PLENTY OF STUDIES AND SCIENCE ON THE TABLE, BUT THE AVERAGE CONSUMER HAS LITTLE INTEREST IN PURSUING THIS INFORMATION.

ALTHOUGH IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO DO JUSTICE TO A TOPIC THAT ENTIRE BOOKS HAVE BEEN WRITTEN ABOUT, MY GOAL IN TAKING ON THIS ASSIGNMENT WAS TO PRESENT ENOUGH FACTS ABOUT GMOS THAT READERS COULD MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS ABOUT CONSUMING THEM—OR NOT.

What Is A GMO?

Visit any grocery store and you’ll notice labels proclaiming “non-GMO ingredients” or “No GMOs.” But what are GMOs in the first place?

GMO stands for “genetically modified organism,” and, in a nutshell, it’s any organism or microorganism whose genetic material has been changed or altered because of genetic engineering.

Genetic engineering is done to introduce a desirable trait, such as better flavor, bigger size, more varieties, resistance to damage, less water requirements and more.

Although we constantly hear about the term “GMO,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is responsible for regulating food safety for both humans and animals, considers “genetic engineering” (GE) as the more precise description. So, in this article, we’ll be referring to GE foods.

Food from GE plants was first introduced into the U.S. food supply in the 1990s, but interestingly enough, the first GE product approved by the FDA was actually a drug, not a food.

The fact is, genetic modification continues on many fronts—including in medicine. The science of genetically modifying microorganisms has resulted in medications used to treat type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, genetic growth disorders, multiple sclerosis, lactose intolerance, heart attack and stroke.

“Genetically engineered insulin was approved in the early 1980s, and the first food was not approved until the early 1990s,” says Brandon R. McFadden, Ph.D., an assistant professor in food and resource

economics in the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

“Living in Florida, it is likely many readers have heard about using genetically engineered mosquitos to combat diseases like Zika,” he adds. “This should highlight that genetic engineering is a technology used in breeding of food and is not a food itself.”

Some opponents are afraid that once we’ve gone down the GE road, there’s no going back. But the truth is, we’ve already gone there. A huge percentage of major crops grown in the United States are GE, including corn (88 percent) and soybeans (93 percent). Among other significant crops with GE varieties are potatoes, squash, apples and papayas.

Golden Example

In the 1990s, Swiss scientist Ingo Potrykus, along with Peter Beyer, co-invented Golden Rice, which is genetically engineered to produce beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body.

A humanitarian, Potrykus wanted to find a way to help up to half a million malnourished children in developing countries who go blind each year due to vitamin A deficiency. Many of those children die within a year of losing their eyesight.

The goal was that seeds for Golden Rice be made available at no cost to subsistence farmers around the world. Although intensive scientific research made the seeds a reality, opposition has prevented their distribution to the very people who most need them.

“Such opposition is often the result of well-nourished people imposing an ideology on the undernourished,”

notes McFadden. “I am not sure how to change this; I wish I did. Recently, 107 Nobel Laureates signed a letter urging Greenpeace to abandon their campaign against Golden Rice. Hopefully, this will help.”

Let’s face it: We’ve been manipulating DNA in various ways for thousands of years. Think about seedless watermelons, chickens who lay more eggs per year and turkeys with unnaturally large breasts, to mention only a few.

“I like the saying, ‘Humans have had a hand in nature since Adam spit the first seed,’” says McFadden.

“For example, the ancestor to the corn we eat was about the size of your thumbnail. This domestication comes from manipulating genes. Although, most of us think of domestication as manipulating phenotypes—a phenotype is the observable, physical characteristics—rather than manipulating genes, which makes sense, as we cannot visually see changes at the gene level.”

Farmers And Breeders

For centuries, livestock breeders have utilized conventional breeding and artificial selection to obtain certain physical characteristics and traits—and to eliminate others. One has only to look at the vast variety in dogs, cattle, horses, etc.

In the world of crops, farmers trying to establish a plant with certain desirable traits will repeatedly cross-pollinate. Just as in breeding livestock, the potential problem is that, although this method introduces genes for the positive traits, it can also include genes that carry less-thandesirable characteristics.

In other words, farmers and breeders have been trying their hand at modifying genes—and thereby changing many species of animals and plants—but without a fraction of the careful control used in genetic engineering in the laboratory, which can isolate a single gene for a desired trait.

“Asking if genetic engineering is safe is like asking if the internet is good—it creates a false dichotomy,” observes McFadden. “Genetic engineering is simply a type of technology, and each application of the technology should be evaluated independently to ensure safety for consumers, the environment and farmers. And this is exactly what is done.

“Every genetically engineered crop must pass regulation by the FDA, EPA and USDA. There is no food consumed more studied and regulated than genetically engineered food. The U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance calculated that, on average, it takes 13 years and $136 million to get a new genetically engineered seed through the regulatory process,” he says.

Opposing Views

If genetic engineering has resulted in drugs that help mankind and crops that resist pests, why is there such stringent opposition to this technology?

Among the issues voiced by opponents are concerns that:

• Genetic engineering reduces genetic diversity

• DNA from GE crops can transfer into the people eating them

• GMO consumption can increase general and gluten allergies

• Animals fed GMO feeds developed tumors, inflammation

• Testing methods aren’t adequate to ensure safety

• GMOs only benefit big biotech companies and factory farms

Opponents point out specific incidents as basis for their concerns. For example, in 1989, L-Tryptophan, which can be produced by GE bacteria, was linked to

“Asking if genetic engineering is safe is like asking if the internet is goo d ___________________ it creates a false dichotomy,”

-Brandon R. McFadden, Ph.D.

37 deaths associated with eosinophilia myalgia syndrome. Studies into the cases ultimately determined the problem was due to “the omission of an important purification stage from the process, not to the use of GM organisms in its production.”

StarLink corn had been genetically engineered to produce its own pesticide protein and was EPA-approved for use only in “animal feed and other industrial, nonfood uses.” In 1998, however, StarLink corn was found in the human food supply. (The company that owned the U.S. registration for StarLink corn voluntarily withdrew it two years later.)

“The StarLink incident resulted in food recalls,” says McFadden. “After that, the documentary Food, Inc. demonized Monsanto and the ability to patent seed. However, seeds have been patented long before genetic engineering.”

Some detractors have said that the case for GMOs is like smoking was in the 1950s—just because there’s no clear link to cancer, birth defects, tumors, etc. doesn’t mean they’re safe. Depending on what you read on the internet, you can come away certain that GE is the scourge of the earth— or a welcome form of salvation. Moral of the story: Be open minded, and don’t get

all your information from one source. Do some research on genetics in general.

McFadden cautions against giving too much weight to any one individual study or scientist. Instead, he advises on collecting as much information as possible from as many credible sources as possible in order to arrive at an informed conclusion.

“More than 2,000 studies have been conducted to assess human and environmental safety and nearly 300 organizations and scientific institutions support the safety of genetically engineered crops,” notes McFadden.

Be A Savvy Consumer

When you head to the grocery store, be an informed shopper. In many cases, you may not be buying a fruit or vegetable from a GE plant itself but a food item that contains ingredients made from GE plants. These can include corn starch, corn syrup and oils found in mayonnaise, salad dressings, breads, snack foods, etc.

And yes, in case you wondered, the FDA requires food from GE plants to meet the same food safety requirements as those from traditionally bred plants.

“Just being ‘Non-GMO’ doesn’t necessarily make a food healthy, so don’t be influenced by that label alone. Even when I see a label that says ‘Non-GMO,’

I look further at the ingredients,” says Debbie Green, a registered dietitian at The Villages Rehab.

“What I tell patients all the time about eating healthy is to shop the perimeter of the grocery store, not the middle aisles,” says Green.

“Eat whole foods you prepare yourself. Get as close to the source of food as possible. Go as fresh as you can, and purchase foods with the least amount of ingredients. The fewer the ingredients, the better o you are, and they should be ingredients you recognize, not additives you can’t pronounce,” says Green.

“If you’re concerned about GMOs in produce, go the organic route. There are several stores in our area that accommodate that and provide a wide selection,” says Green.

She also emphasizes avoiding processed foods, up to 90 percent of which are estimated to contained GE corn or soy.

“In our busy schedules, it is di cult to prepare healthy and fast meals without planning ahead and having the proper tools. Invest in a slow cooker and a pressure cooker, and it is possible to put a delicious and healthy meal on your family table in 30 minutes or less,” advises Green.

Some detractors have said that the case for GMOs is like smoking was in the 1950s— just because there’s no clear link to cancer, birth defects, tumors, etc.

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

Photo by Richard Rossetto

As a place to call home

Florida ranks close to the top.

Water Concerns

We know what you’re thinking: What’s the big deal? After all, Florida’s a peninsula. We’re surrounded by water, and the state has plenty of surface water, right? Not so fast. Given our rapidly expanding population, experts say we’d better be paying attention.

In 1910, the state’s population was barely 1 million. According to the United States Census Bureau, Florida’s population as of July 2016 was estimated at 20,612,439. And studies predict a population of 27 million by about 2030.

Florida is a large state covering 58,560 square miles, but 27 million is a lot of people, and as the population grows, so do environmental concerns, many of which involve water.

“I think the greatest water-related environmental issue facing Florida is simply ensuring an adequate supply of water for all water users,” observes Kelly A. Grogan, Ph.D., associate professor in the Food and Resource Economics Department at the University of Florida.

“With (the) predicted population growth, demand for water will only be increasing in the future. Our natural drought cycle also makes us prone to shortages, and climate change predictions suggest that we may face more frequent and/or more severe droughts,” adds Grogan. “The combination of population growth and climatic factors means that we need to increase water conservation e orts now and make sure new urban development is designed with water conservation in mind.”

Although you often hear people mention “the” aquifer, the fact is there isn’t just one

So much so that roughly 1,000 people move here each day. Only Texas and California have more residents than the Sunshine State.

Photo by Richard Rossetto

aquifer beneath the Sunshine State. The largest is the Floridan aquifer, which is located beneath not only Florida but also parts of Georgia, Alabama and even up into South Carolina.

Think of the aquifer as an underground river. Just like rivers on the surface, the aquifer is replenished by rainfall, which is why fluctuations in rainfall—and droughts, like the one Florida had this spring—can have a detrimental impact on water supply.

“People look around and see all our surface water and think there’s plenty of water here, but that doesn’t tell you the condition of the aquifer. You have to consider the amount of rainfall over a long period, not just a year,” notes David Holmes, county extension director in the UF-IFAS Marion County o ce.

“Many people don’t really think about how sensitive our Floridian environment is and aren’t familiar with our very sandy soils,” adds Holmes. “Anything that goes below the root zone of grasses and plants eventually reaches the aquifer. Even if you’re not on a well, you need to be concerned about water quality and quantity because what we do on the surface a ects the aquifer, and this is where our drinking water comes from.”

In the early 1970s, Florida established five water management districts, and in 1989, the state adopted legislation to improve water resource management and required each district to evaluate water needs and sources.

“A major concern is nutrient load, which can be caused by fertilizer, waste (human and animal) and storm water run-o ,” Holmes explains. “Basically, it’s caused by everyone living here, so it’s our responsibility.”

“About 90 percent of Floridians rely on groundwater for drinking water, either through wells or through city water systems that rely on groundwater,” says Grogan. “Increasing groundwater contamination will increase the costs incurred by (public) water systems to clean drinking water for household use. Excess nutrients in our groundwater also negatively impact surface water fed by our groundwater, like our many beautiful springs.”

“Farmers don’t tend to overuse fertilizer, but overuse is common in landscaping; people want their grass to be greener than their neighbors’,” notes Holmes. “A lot of people blow lawn clippings onto the street;

those clippings contain nitrogen, and once they get washed into the storm drain, the nitrogen breaks down and goes into the water system. Instead, you should blow clippings back onto your grass to keep the nitrogen on the turf.”

And those “deposits” your dog makes in the yard? Pick ‘em up.

“It may seem like a small thing, but it’s a nitrogen source and goes through the soil,” says Holmes.

One major study, Water 2070, concluded that, “The single most e ective strategy to reduce water demand in Florida is to significantly reduce the amount of water used for landscape irrigation.”

Grogan agrees.

“Recent studies have shown that about 64 percent of the freshwater used by the average Central Florida household is used to irrigate lawns,” she notes. “Lush, green lawns are not naturally occurring features of our landscape and require a lot of water to maintain. Installation of Florida-friendly landscaping, utilizing native plants and, in particular, drought-tolerant plants, could substantially lower household water use.”

What You Can Do:

› Respect water restrictions when in place.

› Turn o water when brushing teeth, etc.

› Shorten your shower time.

› When replacing appliances, choose watere cient models.

› Run washers and dishwashers only with a full load.

› Don’t over-water or overfertilize landscaping.

› Switch to Florida-friendly vegetation that require less water, and/or be more accepting of having a less-than-perfect lawn.

› Pick up pet waste, and dispose of it in the trash.

› If you have livestock, remove waste from pastures and have it hauled o or compost on-site where it can’t create runo .

› Reduce your use of fertilizer and pesticides.

› If on a septic system, have it inspected and maintained regularly.

› Follow water conservation recommendations from University of Florida experts (http://bit.ly/2vjBgI3).

The largest is the Floridan aquifer, which is located beneath not only Florida but also parts of Georgia, Alabama and even up into South Carolina.

Photo by Richard Rossetto

Rising Sea Levels

Science supports the evidence of rising sea levels, which will definitely impact a state that is surrounded by water. No one can say precisely how quickly this will occur over the coming years, but e ects have already been identified in low-lying coastal communities.

“We will actually see a rise in the ocean level, and we are already seeing the e ects of this in places like Miami-Dade County where they are already experiencing hightide flooding,” says Grogan.

The Florida Chapter of the American Institute of Architects is recommending that building designs, codes and infrastructure accommodate 3 feet of sea level rise for projects in all low-lying areas, even those farther inland and up tidal rivers.

“In addition to flooding, saltwater intrusion is another problem that will be exacerbated by sea level rise, and we are already experiencing contaminated wells in Fort Lauderdale and Miami,” observes Grogan.

Saltwater is found throughout the aquifer but is typically far below the freshwater. “Saltwater intrusion” is the movement of saline water into freshwater aquifers. This natural occurrence has an exponentially negative impact when too much fresh water is pumped from an aquifer, when a well is drilled too deep and, as Grogan points out, with rising sea levels.

What You Can Do:

› Seek professional building advice before buying or building in a low-lying area, even inland.

› Follow permitting requirements and building codes with new construction or renovation.

Waste & Recycling

All those people calling Florida home... well, we generate a lot of waste. According to 2014 statistics (the most recent available) from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, each resident generates an average 9.12 pounds of solid waste per day, which translates to 1.66 tons per year per person. That’s a lot of trash.

And where does it end up?

Again going with 2014 statistics, 47 percent of Florida’s solid waste ended up in landfills; 39 percent was recycled and 14 percent combusted.

In 2010, Florida legislature enacted a bill that established a statewide recycling rate of 75 percent to be achieved by 2020. Recycling statistics are in for 2015, and there’s some good news. Although it varies widely by county, the state’s overall recycling rate climbed to 54 percent in 2015. Twenty counties exceeded 50 percent, Marion and Citrus Counties among them.

What You Can Do:

› Recycle at home to avoid waste ending up in landfills.

› Start a recycling program at your school or workplace.

› Visit earth911.com and dep.state.fl.us for recycling tips.

Invasion Of Non-Natives

Things tend to grow well in Florida’s temperate climate—even species that aren’t supposed to be here, which is why our state is facing an invasion of non-native species, in both flora and fauna. In fact, over 500 non-native fish and wildlife species and 1,180 non-native plant species have been documented.

“Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata), water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) are the most serious aquatic pest plants in Central Florida,” notes Carli Segelson of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

“Hydrilla can grow at a rate of up to 1 inch per growing tip per day, with many more than 10,000 growing tips per acre of surface water,” Segelson explains. “Likewise, water hyacinth and water lettuce, which both float on the water’s surface, can double in size within 30 days. [These] species can block navigation, crowd out diverse vegetation, and, because of the respiration phase of their life cycles, even deplete available dissolved oxygen in the water column at night or on cloudy days.”

Boat trailers are one of the most common ways that exotic aquatic weeds are moved from one water body to another. Dumping aquarium plants into Florida waters is another way imported plants can become nuisances.

In upland areas, Cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), Chinese tallow

“We will actually see a rise in the ocean level, and we are already seeing the effects of this in places like Miami-Dade County where they are already experiencing high-tide flooding.”

- Kelly A. Grogan, Ph.D.

(Triadica sebifera), air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) and Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia) are invasive, fast-growing species that exclude almost all other plant species, altering the habitat and reducing diversity.

In transitional and wetland areas, West Indian marsh grass (Hymenachne amplexicaulis), Para grass (Urochloa mutica) and torpedograss (Panicum repens) quickly take over and establish nearly complete dominance.

Invasive Critters

You’re probably already aware of one of the state’s most alarming invasive species: the Burmese python. Native to South Asia, their presence in the Sunshine State is attributed to escaped/released pets and the destruction of a breeding facility during Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Although the population is established in South Florida, individual Burmese pythons have been spotted near Naples and experts suspect the population is moving northwest.

These pythons prey on native species and have reduced local populations; they can also pose a threat to pets and livestock. The average Burmese python found in Florida is 8 to 10 feet, although they can grow up to 20 feet long.

FWC encourages residents to participate year-round in reducing the population of this invasive species; no hunting license or permit is required. And in case you’re thinking of grilling up your catch, eating meat from Florida pythons isn’t advised. High mercury levels have been found in Burmese pythons taken from Everglades National Park.

Tegus, a large lizard native to South America, have also become a problem in Florida, and local breeding populations exist as far north as Hillsborough County. Tegus reproduce quickly and eat a variety of food, including small animals and the eggs of many wildlife species. They can grow up to 4 feet long and, if they find a burrow, can survive temperatures down to 35°F.

On a brighter note, the Florida panther, which is native and endangered, has seen an increase in population, proving that conservation e orts are helping. Only about 20 to 30 panthers remained in Florida in the 1970s and ‘80s; the latest counts document approximately 120-230 adult panthers in the population.

What You Can Do:

› Before you leave a boat ramp, carefully inspect your trailer and boat and remove any aquatic weeds.

› Don’t transplant aquatic vegetation.

› Never empty the contents of your home aquarium into the wild.

› Report new infestations of aquatic plant pest species to FWC Invasive Plant Management section at (850) 617-9430

› Don’t leave pet food outside.

› Never release an exotic animal into the wild. (It’s illegal, not just unwise!)

› Report sightings of non-native species to the exotic species hotline at (888) Ive-Got1 or online at IveGot1.org. Learn more at http://bit.ly/1JkmcgD

› Take part in the FWC’s Python Pickup Program. Learn more at http://bit.ly/2sGVc98

› If you have a non-native pet you no longer wish to keep, surrender it through the exotic pet amnesty program. Learn more at http://bit.ly/1y9yvbn

› Support conservation e orts by purchasing a conservation-themed vehicle tag at your local tax o ce.

Hydrilla Verticillata

Pistia Stratiotes – Water Lettuce

Para Grass

Burmese Python

Tegus Lizard

Water Hyacinth

WHEN ANXIETY CLOSES IN

WHEN ANXIETY CLOSES IN

WHEN ANXIETY CLOSES IN

Finding help and hope for a better life

By Cynthia McFarland

Human beings are hardwired to survive.

Time and again, we hear incredible stories of people who come through horrifying ordeals—war, natural disaster, abduction, abuse—and live to tell about it.

Yet for every one of those headline-making tales, there are far more individuals who are fighting a di erent battle. They may not make the evening news, but their stories of overcoming are powerful, and worth celebrating.

One of those survivors is Cheryl Bryan.*

For years, Cheryl, 56, struggled with anxiety, but because she was able to hold down a job and maintain a fairly normal social life— and there was no history of anxiety or depression in her family—she didn’t think she needed to seek professional help. Gradually, however, her symptoms worsened.

She had trouble sleeping and often found herself crying for no reason. There were times she had tremors and shaking and felt like she couldn’t catch her breath. And then there were the panic attacks. Although some were quite severe, she still rationalized that they weren’t bad enough to get help. Her anxiety symptoms usually flared up when she was feeling upset.

Then in 2014, her world turned upside down when an accident left her physically injured and, even after healing, partially disabled.

“That experience pushed me over the edge. I was in bad emotional shape; it almost destroyed me,” Cheryl admits. “I’d had issues with anxiety for years before this happened,

but even though I knew I had a problem, I was able to ignore it and go on. After the accident, I hit rock bottom. It triggered a lot of emotions, and I wasn’t able to get back to a normal life.”

Certainly, the way she was living then was not normal.

Not wanting to be alone, Cheryl moved into an apartment with two roommates but isolated herself from the rest of the world as much as possible. She’d already quit her job and rarely left the apartment. Her roommates would pick up her groceries because Cheryl felt too anxious to go shopping herself, let alone go to a restaurant.

“It got to the point where I thought everything was hopeless,” says Cheryl, who finally admitted she needed help when she started thinking suicide might be an option.

REACHING OUT

Cheryl called The Centers (thecenters.us), a private, non-profit organization with two locations in Citrus County and three in Marion County. Started in 1972, The Centers o ers outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment services for adults, teens and children.

She began outpatient treatment, seeing a psychiatrist and therapist for evaluation

and counseling.

In addition to anxiety, Cheryl was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As is often the case, Cheryl’s treatment included both therapy and medication.

“It took about five to six months until I really felt like things were going to turn around,” says Cheryl, who felt noticeable improvement after the first month of being on medication.

“The time frame for recovery from mental illness is di erent for everyone; it really depends on the person. Many things can have an impact on the frequency and severity of symptoms,” explains Deborah Giles, M.Ed. a therapist in the adult outpatient department at The Centers in Ocala at the Airport Road location.

“I’m very thankful to have my therapist. This has been my lifeline,” says Cheryl.

“I never in my life felt I could open up to anyone and tell them how I really feel. With her, I’m able to do that. It took some time for her to get me talking, but little by little, things started coming out. I still go to therapy once a week; knowing I can go in and talk to her really helps.”

“Cheryl has done really, really well,” says Giles. “At one point, she wasn’t sure

she wanted to continue on with life, but she stuck it out. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to serve her, but I just gave her guidance. She did the work, and she gets the credit for that. She read material to get educated, answered questions and followed up with my suggestions. She didn’t just come in and talk.”

Giles emphasizes that this is essential for anyone to see lasting change.

“Some people think if they just pop a pill, that’s all they need to do,” she notes. “You can get a measure of relief from medication for a while, but the behavioral work is key to recovery.”

For anyone su ering with anxiety, coping techniques are invaluable. Cheryl learned breathing techniques that helped her feel calmer. She began keeping a journal and writing about how she felt if she got upset or anxious. Going back and reading over what she wrote helped her regain a sense of control over her life. For some clients, a change in diet also helps, but Cheryl was already eating healthy.

The anxiety that had dominated her life began to recede as Cheryl maintained her routine of therapy and medication. She found herself more at ease and able to relax and sleep better than she had in years. She was once again able to go to the grocery store, attend church or go to a restaurant. After not working for two years, she felt ready to get back into the workforce and now has a part-time job, which she truly enjoys. She even got her own apartment, which was a major step.

“For a while, I really felt like I needed other people around just to feel safe. Now I’m ready to do things for myself and live as normal a life as I possibly can,” says Cheryl. “I’m doing all the things I wasn’t doing before; I’m starting to live again. That feeling of hopelessness is gone. Every day is one day at a time, but I’m having a lot more good days and not many bad days anymore.”

Cheryl’s advice for others dealing with mental and emotional struggles: Don’t wait to seek help.

I WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW THERE IS HOPE AND THERE IS HELP.

“If I had reached out for help a lot sooner, I wouldn’t have gotten in the shape I was in,” she says. “It’s nothing to be ashamed about. I think that is one thing that kept me from going for help for so long. I was taught to take care of myself and that you don’t need help from other people. Sometimes people don’t reach out for help because they think they can’t a ord it,” she adds, noting that this is a misconception.

Many treatment options are available, and, in many cases, residential (live-in) treatment isn’t necessary.

“I want people to know there is hope and there is help,” Cheryl adds. “Without that help, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

“Many people are reluctant to get help because the stigma of mental illness is still there,” observes Giles. “People often wait until it’s really bad because there’s a sense of defeat and shame. We want them to know they can come as they are. Our goal is to provide appropriate care and services, treating everyone with dignity and respect. Whether it’s for children, teens, adults or seniors, there is help available.”

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

Cheryl’s story underscores the fact that many people with anxiety cope as long as they can—often for years—and don’t seek help until they have to admit they’re unable to live a normal life.

“Mental health professionals can diagnose the problem and treat it, but the person with the problem often doesn’t really care what the diagnosis is, as long as they get help with their symptoms,” notes Donald J. Baracskay II, MD, MBA, MSCIS, medical director at The Centers.

Although statistically speaking, anxiety is more common in women, the stereotype of men “toughing it out” and not seeking help appears to be changing, especially in younger men. The stoicism of older generations who believed in “pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps” is definitely not the outlook of Generation X and millennials.

“There’s a lot more attention paid to mental health issues today,” says Baracskay. Identifying the causes of anxiety disorders

is not a simple process, as they often include multiple factors and have even been shown to run in families. A significant event or trauma can trigger an anxiety disorder in an individual who has an inherited susceptibility to developing it. Research has shown that severe or long-lasting stress can actually change the way nerve cells in the brain circuits transmit information from one part of the brain to another.

There are several types of disorders that fall under the category of “anxiety,” including:

• Social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia)

• Panic disorder

• Specific phobias (intense fears of specific things/situations)

• Generalized anxiety disorder (excessive, unrealistic worry)

• Symptoms will vary depending on the type of disorder, but general anxiety symptoms may include:

• Feelings of panic, fear and uneasiness

• Problems sleeping

• Cold or sweaty hands/feet

• Shortness of breath

• Heart palpitations

• Not being able to be still and calm

• Dry mouth

• Numbness or tingling in the hands/feet

• Nausea

• Muscle tension

• Dizziness

GETTING HELP

“For people with anxiety symptoms, there tends to be a pattern of the symptoms returning, but that’s not a guarantee,” says Baracskay.

Treatment for anxiety disorders varies depending on the individual and their specifi c type of disorder. Baracskay adds that, although some people hope medication alone will resolve their symptoms, the best way to treat anxiety is usually a combination of medication and therapy.

Treatment may include:

• Medication

• Psychotherapy (counseling to address underlying emotional issues)

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (to help identify and change thought patterns and behaviors)

• Lifestyle and dietary changes

• Relaxation therapy

*name has been changed to protect privacy

Carrol Dillon-Smith Administrator/Owner

Photo by Ralph Demilio

pivot points

Maintaining hip health is a lifelong joint venture.

› By Angelique Anacleto

It’s all in the hips. And flexibility is key because this intersection impressively marries your abdomen, legs, buns and spine, allowing you to rotate forward, backward or sideways. Try zig-zagging down a ball field, executing that golf swing or hoisting little ones without hip assistance. Not to mention, that agility also earns bonus sexy points in the boudoir. To stay especially swivel-happy, augment your usual yoga and Pilates with these hip tips.

go-go gadgets

Considering hips’ wide range of movements, John R. Camp, a certified personal trainer at Ocala’s Frank Deluca YMCA Family Center, encourages testing an assortment of e ective exercise gear to train surrounding muscles and keep workouts interesting.

To strengthen muscles and connective tissues of the LPHC (lumbar spine-pelvic girdle-hip joint complex), Camp recommends performing glute bridges, which involve lying on your back with bent knees and raising hips upward.

“Try glute bridges on a stability ball or bosu ball (featuring curved and flat sides). The addition of a yoga ring can squeeze hips together on the way up, and yoga band tension can open thighs,” he says.

“Kettle bell swings from a crouching to standing position thrust hips forward. And balancing atop a bosu’s flat side incorporates stability. Front, rear and side lunges can also be done on either a bosu, connected to TRX suspension straps or with slider discs underneath feet.”

flex time

Got a swamped schedule?

Pete Navarro, physical and sports therapist at Performance By Achievement clinic in Inverness, suggests splicing in flex movements throughout the day.

“Try 10 reps of air squats twice a day. Or if you are too weak or have knee issues, stand up from a chair. Also touch your toes for a simple hamstring stretch,” he

...he tumbled down a flight of stairs and still appeared that same night to plug his title on Late Night With Conan O’Brien.

says. When time permits, “Walk, bike or swim for at least 10 to 15 minutes.”

star power

Carl Reiner’s, Now You’re Ninety-Four is a must-read book for anyone planning on longevity. At 95, this comedic legend demonstrates and advocates a lifetime of daily morning stretching before feet hit the floor. As proof, consider that he tumbled down a flight of stairs and still appeared that same night to plug his title on Late Night With Conan O’Brien

hipster trend

After copious conditioning, it’s time to flaunt those hipbones. Declared the new erogenous zone, strategic clothing cutouts invite sideways peeks at the hipbones of runway models

and celebrity provocateurs. To pull o this look, pair a high-cut bodysuit with that pair of lowrise jeans or pants from the aughties. So hip!

Dr. Christina Mitchell

apples, apples everywhere (and we’re not just talking pie!)

With fall around the corner, it’s time to re-adjust our menus for the upcoming season. First up on my shopping list: apples.

› Photo and recipe by Robin Fannon

It’s apple season and time for them to shine. Versatile, low in calories and satisfying, they also pack a nutritional wallop. One baseball-sized apple can flood your body with antioxidants, flavonoids and dietary fiber.

According to the American Pie Council, 186 million apple pies are sold in American grocery stores each year. This does not include our homemade versions or what is consumed in restaurants. Clearly, apple pie is America’s favorite.

But apples can be delicious in salads, slaws, chutney, jellies, stu ngs and soup (yes, soup!), too, and are classically combined in pork and chicken entrées. So for this month’s recipe, we decided to dig deeper into the versatility of this wondrous fruit and explore a savory dish: Brie and apple-stu ed chicken breast with a quick pan sauce that is sure to please all the apple lovers in your family.

p om The Chef

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), conventional apples are a very heavily sprayed crop and have more pesticide residue on them than any other fruit or vegetable. But don’t panic—just go organic!

Apple & ie Stuffed Chicken east

Serves 2

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 small apple, cored and thinly sliced

1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)

1⁄2 teaspoon each pink Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper

1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour (optional)

4 slices Brie cheese

1 cup apple cider

1 cup chicken broth

Preheat the oven to 375°F. › Warm 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil in a pan, and sauté the apple slices until slightly soft. › Remove apples, and set aside to cool. ›  Wash and dry the chicken breast, and slice a pocket into each breast.

› Layer slices of Brie and apple slices into the pocket of the chicken breast. › Season

rsvprobin.com

chicken with salt and pepper, and dredge in all-purpose flour. › This step is optional, but it helps it to brown the breasts and thicken the pan sauce.  › In the sauté pan, warm 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (or a combination of both) over medium heat.  › Add chicken breasts, and brown them on both sides. › Transfer browned chicken breasts to an oven-proof baking dish, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.  › In the same pan you browned the chicken in, make a quick pan sauce. › Pour the cider and broth into the sauté pan, and boil over medium-high heat (scraping up the brown bits in the pan from the chicken) until reduced to about 1 cup. › Whisk in a pat of butter to finish the sauce. ›  Serve with whipped sweet potatoes and a green vegetable.

Robin Fannon is a New York culinary school trained-chef and a successful party planner with decades of experience. You can visit her popular blog at rsvprobin.com for healthy recipes, party tips and lifestyle articles. Or check her out on Facebook or Instagram.

the power of positivity

Pessimists, listen up. Laura Kubzansky, a professor of social and behavioral sciences at Harvard School of Public Health, reviewed 200 studies and has linked positivity to a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease, lower blood pressure and normal body weight. Subjects who have an optimistic spirit have the tendency to engage in healthy habits, such as exercising, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep, therefore maintaining a healthy body.

So go ahead and turn your frown upside down. Here are three ways to make your day a little brighter:

› Limit the amount of time you spend on social media.

› Practice being kind to strangers.

› Focus on time, not money.

planting pointers

Green thumbs up if you’re ready for Central Florida’s gardening season this fall. Fall planting typically starts in August; however, it’s not too late to start preparing a fall and winter harvest. Follow these tips from the gardening gurus themselves.

› By Laurel Gillum

starting your garden

If you already have a garden from a previous season, clear out everything that’s not healthy or no longer producing to make room for the new crop.

To build up your soil, add organic matter into the ground where you plan to start growing your garden. There are many DIY organic composts to try. Healthy compost results from a combination of four ingredients: greens, browns, air and moisture. You should never use chemical fertilizer spray on your garden—especially near fruits and vegetables.

Purchase the seeds you want to plant, according to what will grow in your region. In Central Florida, these yummy plants do best during the cooler months:

shopping list

› Seeds, seedling plugs or starter plants

› Garden soil or compost

› Gardening gloves

› Hand trowel

SOUTHERN

PEAS. Once you spot pods starting to form, be sure to pick them so that others can form behind them.

› Cultivator

› Scissors, snips or pruners

› Garden rake

› Spade

› Shovel

› Digging fork

› Garden hoe

› Watering can

KALE. Make sure you plant each of the sprouts 6 inches apart.

RADISHES. You can start planting radishes once the soil temperature is down to about 85 degrees at the hottest time of the day. If your garden is shaded, September will be the prime month for planting. If not, you may need to wait until October.

GREEN BEANS. When you pick beans, do not yank them from the plant. Cut them gently with scissors and the plants will keep producing.

BEETS. When the beet’s root has reached 2.5 inches in diameter, it is ready to be picked.

BASIL. Basil grows best when planted with tomatoes.

DILL. Dill grows best when planted with broccoli.

CILANTRO. Cilantro thrives in the cooler months.

CARROTS. It may take a few months for the roots to grow big enough to pull out— patience is key.

book matrix

member ($99 per year), Amazon o ers a free lending library that allows you to borrow one e-book per month—but you can check out only one book at a time and must use a Kindle or Fire tablet for reading.

Playster gives you access to 250,000 e-books and audiobooks for $9.95 per month after a 30-day free trial. A $24.95 unlimited subscription unlocks millions of movies, songs and games.

library and nonprofit freebies

The price (free) of a library card can unlock access to tons of material from the convenience of your tablet. Find the website of the library you belong to and click on “digital media” to access untold volumes of material.

OneClickDigital is your library’s audiobook source and o ers e-books as well.

Axis360 and Freading are e-book borrowing depositories.

Whether you’re a casual reader or a more voracious type, here’s a look at your digital reading options.

the best libraries money can buy

Several subscription services o er access to hundreds of thousands of books. If you’re not sure whether subscribing is a smart money move for you, consider how long it takes you to finish a book: At an average of $8 per e-book, you’d need to read 15 books per year to make that $120 yearly subscription worth it. (The Pew Research Center estimates most Americans read an average of four books per year.)

24Symbols runs $8.99 per month (after a three-monthsfor-the-price-of-one trial) for access to more than 500,000 e-books and audiobooks, with no checkout limit (just one audiobook per month, though).

Kindle Unlimited allows access to more than a million titles and thousands of audiobooks with a $9.99 monthly subscription (after a 30-day free trial). Users can check out up to 10 titles at once. If you are Prime

Scribd costs $8.99 per month after a 30day free trial and o ers a million books, comics and audiobooks. Users are limited to three e-books and one audiobook per month.

Open Library and Project Gutenberg are nonprofit e orts to digitize the world’s library. Open Library, run by the Internet Archive, has now digitized more than half a million books, with free access to anyone.

Zinio connects readers to subscription magazines.

And finally, Overdrive isn’t a library service per se but a free e-book app that facilitates borrowing e-books through libraries. One drawback is that, like actual library borrowing, the book is due back in a few weeks, disappearing from your reader unless your request a renewal.

Paid or free, surf through millions of pages with a variety of e-book services..

› By Brett Ballantini

visual visionaries

Online decor services easily and inexpensively storyboard fashion choices for your home.

› By Angelique Anacleto

Here’s a puzzle: You need help to either uniquely fill your empty box of a living space or freshen your challenged abode, all on a beer budget. For the truly style stumped, online interior design services can ease the guesswork and inject a dose of collaborative fun while kitting out your place.

For a flat fee, deft cyberdesigners can remotely pull together a virtual dashboard of exciting colors, motifs, materials, furniture and accessories. The process concludes with a complete shopping list, plus recommendations on where to plop your new statement pieces based on uploaded photos of your space, measurements and any existing furnishings. Follow this “under $300” referral list to get clicking and start picking.

Note: Fees are per room.

Havenly

(havenly.com): free-$199

In two business days, a contact from a 100-plus designer corps refines initial ideas with you, followed by a 3-D rendering, recommendations and up to two revisions. A shopping concierge then assists with ordering curated products from more than 150 retailers. Design Quickie (free) o ers a 30-minute designer chat.

Havenly Mini ($79) features three initial ideas narrowed to one concept, one revision, one to two weeks of design time and two weeks of post-design support.

Havenly Full ($149-$199) expands to two revisions, two to three weeks of design time, four weeks of post-design support, 3-D visualization and a floor plan.

Interior Design Service Online

(interiordesignserviceonline.com): $35-$299

A la carte menu includes: Room Review ($35) for three recommendations, Paint Color Consultation ($50) and Furniture Layouts ($175) o ers three layout options per room for existing and new furnishings. Custom Room Design ($299) features a preliminary design board after one week, revision after seven days, and final 2-D rendering after three days, plus floor plan and shopping list.

Laurel & Wolf

(laurelandwolf.com): $59-$249

Light package ($59) quickly refreshes with an initial concept from one designer, five days of collaboration, a final concept board, shopping list and purchasing service.

Classic’s ($149) more comprehensive plan provides 10 days of collaboration, unlimited design revisions, space planning, a style board and floor plan.

Signature ($249) presents three initial designers from whose work you select.

Homepolish

(homepolish.com): $130/hour

NousDecor

(nousdecor.com): $299

Plus package’s eight- to 10week process generates five design concepts, a personalized theme, a floor plan, elevations, shopping service, chat support, a 3-D rendering and installation guidelines.

Register for a complimentary consultation and video chat per hour with one of 500 designers.

Decorist

(decorist.com): $299

Boasting expertise nationwide, a two- to three-week process entails two initial design concepts, messaging, final design, floor plan, instructions and online shopping assistance.

The Nature Coast’s LOCAL radio stations!

More music & less talk.

We know why our audience listens to our stations…because they LOVE THE MUSIC! So we avoid DJ chatter and deliver the greatest Top 40 and classic hits of all time, along with important information like news, sports and weather. As a result, our listeners listen longer!

The Nature Coast’s #1 hit music station

Classic Hits

Classic Hits

From chest pain to open heart surgery to

Our patient-centered heart experts are committed to giving you the very best in individualized care while incorporating modern technology to ensure you have the highest quality outcomes. We offer a continuum of care from diagnosis to treatment to rehabilitation so you can have peace of mind knowing that access to the region’s best cardiac care is right in your backyard.

With emergency services in three locations, we’re ready to care for your heart 24/7!