Healthy Living June 2017

We are a state-designated Primary Stroke Center – with the area’s only neurosurgical team. Patients who arrive with chest pain don’t only get expert emergency care – they get the resources of an entire Heart Institute. Those are just two of the ways we offer a higher level of care, right here. Learn more and download our free ER app at LeesburgRegional.org

Your partners for life

Dr. Will Barsoum joined the team at Cardiovascular Associates in January 2017. To say he is thrilled about this exciting opportunity would be an understatement.

“The practice has developed an excellent reputation because the doctors are ethical, knowledgeable, and caring,” he said. “I share their vision of delivering quality cardiovascular care to the wonderful residents of Lake County.”

Dr. Barsoum attended medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada and completed a residency and two fellowships at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. He brings a unique skill set to Cardiovascular Associates and is experienced in treating peripheral vascular disease and pulmonary embolism.

“For me, it’s a major milestone whenever I can improve a patient’s quality of life and increase their longevity.”

He previously practiced in Lake County for more than two years before moving to Orlando.

“I’m happy to be returning to the area. This is where I want to raise my family. We have the best of both worlds. There is plenty of nature, but you don’t have to look far for shopping and entertainment.”

MY KNEE IS A-OK THANKS TO AOI.

For all of our advanced technologies and leading edge breakthroughs in joint repair and replacement, the advancements we at AOI are most proud of are those that our patients make in reclaiming their quality of life. If you are experiencing pain or weakness in a knee, shoulder, or hip and feel it’s time to do something about it, there’s no time like right now. Come see us, we’re here for you.

Alfred J. Cook Jr. Orthopedic Surgeon

John T. Williams Jr. Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthop o

ams Jr. Jr urgeon eon

Vaginal dryness putting

CONTENTS

June 2017

FEATURING

FEATU

HEALTHYBODY

20 // DECADES OF MEN’S HEALTH

You’re never too young—or too old—to actively pursue a healthy lifestyle. Five Lake County men ranging in ages from their 20s through their 60s share their secrets to achieving optimal health.

20 DE You’re too old health Count from th sh achiev

28 // AGRICULTURE BRANCHES OUT

Central Florida once was known as the king of citrus. Despite the misfortunes that hit the industry, agriculture lives on in Lake and Sumter counties.

34 // SERVING THE UNDERSERVED

Medical and dental clinics in Lake County fill a void by offering health care to children and adults without insurance.

BE A MAN

46 Educate yourself about men’s health issues.

SILENCE ISN’T ALWAYS GOLDEN

48 Sounding off on the benefits of hearing aids.

HEALTHYMIND

HOT UNDER THE COLLAR?

52 Ways to recognize and control anger.

THE WRITE STUFF

54 How journal writing relaxes the mind.

HEALTHYSPIRIT

QUIT BEING A PEOPLE PLEASER

56 You’re forgetting somebody important: Yourself.

DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY

58 Learn what happy people do differently.

HEALTHYFINANCE

THE SMART MONEY

62 Ways to increase your savings.

MAKE NO LOANS ABOUT IT

64 Creative methods to eliminate debt.

HOT OFF THE PRESS !

To ensure our readers have clarity of content, Healthy Living is updating two statements in the article, “Women & Health.”

The paragraph that begins, “Food impacts…” now reads “Nutrition is vital,” Joanne says. “The condition of the gut (not food) is responsible for nutrient absorption, those vitamins and minerals that keep your body going. We do a stool test to see what you’re not absorbing. Malabsorption can be a big issue.”

The paragraph that begins, “Estrogen is…” Hormones work in the body like a symphony. None are more important than the other. The one hormone that most women are unaware of that they desperately need is Testosterone. This is where the hormone pellet therapy becomes a convenient delivery system to help both men and women achieve optimal Testosterone levels. When hormones are optimized, we are then able to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of our patients.

To read the corrected article in its entirety, please go to lakehealthyliving.com for the digital edition.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $72. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Style or Healthy Living. Choose 2 or more magazines for $85 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112 or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address change request to general@ akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

BACK ISSUES: Order a single issue by mail for $7, or 2 or more single issues for $9. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.

DOUG AKERS / president doug@akersmediagroup.com

KENDRA AKERS / publisher/editor-in-chief kendra@akersmediagroup.com

JAMIE EZRA MARK / chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

LEIGH NEELY managing editor leigh@akersmediagroup.com

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

THERESA CAMPBELL staff writer theresa@akersmediagroup.com

CHRIS GERBASI staff writer chris@akersmediagroup.com

PERHAPS IT IS A ‘GUY THING’

JASON FUGATE creative director jason@akersmediagroup.com

VOLKAN ULGEN art director volkan@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior designer josh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com

FRED LOPEZ chief photographer // fred@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

FRED HILTON, RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT M.D., JAIME ALONSO, MARY ANN DESANTIS, AUSTIN G. HACKNEY, BRIDGET WEBBER, APRIL ARAGAM, B.E. CONRAD

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE / vice president of sales tim@akersmediagroup.com

MIKE STEGALL advertising executive mike@akersmediagroup.com

CREE HOWARD sales executive assistant cree@akersmediagroup.com

TATIANNA GELIGA sales executive assistant tatianna@akersmediagroup.com

ADMINISTRATION

DEB MATLOCK / office manager deb@akersmediagroup.com

AUBREY AKERS / advertising coordinator aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG / distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

DIGITAL SOCIAL MEDIA

GARRETT REARDON / digital specialist garrett@akersmediagroup.com

Phone: 352.787.4112 // Fax: 352.323.8161

P.O. Box 490088 Leesburg, FL 34749 or 108 5th street, Leesburg FL 34749 akersmediagroup.com

I never will understand why the men in my life rarely discuss their health.

We might worry privately about my father, who experiences shortness of breath a little too often and has a difficult time just walking from his house to his car. And we might take some notice of my brother’s new healthy diet and sudden weight loss. But we wouldn’t ever discuss it with them directly. It simply is not done.

Perhaps this is a “guy thing,” to never admit weakness or share about their several visits to the doctor recently. Because that would mean something is wrong. And even admitting something is wrong would mean they actually aren’t equipped with Superman powers.

But more and more, I realize it’s crucial to discuss health issues with the men who are most important in your life.

Not long ago, our Akers Media family was blindsided by the news that one of our beloved team members suffered a stroke. It came out of nowhere and was a complete shock to everyone because this person had always appeared to be extremely healthy.

All of this goes to show that you never should take good health for granted. Even if everything seems normal, a routine checkup or round of tests recommended by your doctor may reveal things you never knew were there.

If you are one of the lucky people with impeccable health, know that you are blessed and do everything you can to maintain optimal health. Many people do not have that luxury and would give all their personal wealth and belongings just to feel good again.

I leave you with a quote from A.J. Reb Materi: “So many people spend their health on wealth, and then have to spend their wealth to regain their health.”

I hope you enjoy this month’s issue. As always, please feel free to provide feedback or comments via Facebook or email me directly at Kendra@akersmediagroup.com.

Stay healthy,

KendraAkers

TAKE YOUR HEALTH TO HEART

According to the American Heart Association, the best defenses against cardiovascular diseases are a healthy diet and lifestyle. The organization recommends eating whole grains, lowfat dairy products, skinless poultry and fish, nuts and legumes, and non-tropical vegetable oils.

South Lake Hospital is offering a heart-healthy eating class on June 20. The free class, which is led by a registered dietitian, emphasizes healthy eating and proper nutrition to promote heart health. The class also invites guest speakers, such as registered nurses and exercise physiologists. For more information, call 352.241.7109.

STATE OF THE AIR

According to a recent report from the American Lung Association’s office in Tallahassee, Florida has improved air quality in the three most common forms of hazardous air pollution. Most of this comes from complying with the Clean Air Act and cleaning up major sources of air pollution—power plants and retiring old, dirty diesel engines.

Most notably, the 18th annual report showed lower overall ozone levels and year-round particle levels. The number of people exposed to unhealthy levels of air pollution dropped to 125 million people from 166 million.

Nearly 38.9 percent of people in the U.S. live in counties with unhealthful levels of ozone or particle pollution.

STEP OUTSIDE

ors health benefits, vitamin d mood due to exposure, decreased stress levels. In ho spend time outdoors enjoy increased activity

erican Heart Association’s recommended 30 minutes of moderate each

June is National Great Outdoors Month. According to Harvard Health, those who spend time outdoors enjoy numerous health benefits, including elevated vitamin D levels, enhanced mood due to sunlight exposure, and decreased stress levels. In addition, those who spend time outdoors enjoy increased activity levels, meaning they meet the American Heart Association’s recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical exercise each day.

ers various parks where families can spend the day rding

Lake County offers various parks where families can spend the day hiking, picnicking, and birding.

Lake Idamere Park 12335 County Road 448

Tavares

352.343.9800

North Lake Community Park 40730 Roger Giles Rd.

Umatilla

352.771.5929

Lake Griffin State Park 3089 U.S. Hwy 441

Fruitland Park

352.360.6760

48 k

Hickory Point Recreation Park 27341 SR 19

Tavares

324.6161

P.E.A.R. Park 5241 Legacy Blvd

Leesburg

352.253.4950

Lake Louisa State Paark rk 7035 U.S. Hwy 27

Clermont 352 360 6760

Matters This N’ That

LAKE COUNTY MEDICAL MILESTONES THROUGH THE YEARS

South Lake Hospital opened. It started as a clinic founded by a group of women who wanted better health care in the community.

Dr. David C. Lew opened Florida Heart and Vascular Center. He later performed the first coronary balloon angioplasty in the county.

Clermont’s National Training Center opened and included a 37,000-square-foot fitness facility and an Olympic-style aquatic center.

The Villages Regional Hospital opened to serve residents of Lake and Sumter counties.

Florida Hospital

Waterman became the county’s first hospital to offer a robotic-assisted partial knee replacement procedure.

Florida Hospital

Waterman founded by Frank Waterman, president of the Waterman Foundation Pen Company.

Leesburg Regional Medical Center opened as a small community hospital.

The first open-heart surgery in Lake County was performed at Leesburg Regional Medical Center.

TRIVIA TIME:

The first hospitalbased neurosurgery program in Lake County was introduced at Leesburg Regional Medical Center.

The Florida Hospital

Waterman Cancer Institute opened, providing patients with comprehensive treatment and care close to home.

Q: Cornerstone Hospice is a wonderful organization that provides palliative care for end-oflife patients. What year was Cornerstone Hospice founded? Please make an educated guess before looking at the answer below.

The Personalized Urology and Robotics (PUR) Clinic opened at South Lake Hospital, offering male patients robotic-assisted microsurgery.

A: Cornerstone Hospice opened in 1984.

SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

Pastors undoubtedly go through difficult times, but a local ministry is determined to help them grow through those struggles.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

It did not take Pastor Ron Cook very long to experience firsthand the conflict, stress, and struggle church leaders often face. As a 25-year-old pastor in West Virginia, he left a church business meeting feeling angry and sad.

“Church members told me that I don’t have enough stripes on my back. They said they were going to put some stripes on me,” he says. “That comment really hurt. It would’ve been nice to have someone to talk to, but pastors often have nowhere to turn for help.”

At that very moment, a ministry was birthed in his heart. Realizing that burnout is a threat to pastors, their families, and their church, he wanted to offer a way to help pastors who were struggling to deal with the daily demands of ministry.

That dream came to fruition 15 years ago when he and his wife, Rodetta, formed Care for Pastors. Their Leesburgbased ministry helps faith leaders from all denominations seek healing, restoration, and renewal.

“There are three challenges pastors face in churches,” says Pastor Cook, who has spent 40 years as a minister. “First, there’s empathy fatigue due to the fact that we give until we have nothing left to give. Second, there are marital challenges because a pastor and his wife live in a fishbowl where everyone is looking at them. They give everything to the church and have nothing left once they arrive home. The third one is church conflict. Sometimes church members have a contradictory vision to what the pastor has.”

A former pastor of First Baptist Church of Leesburg and founding pastor of Southpointe Baptist Fellowship in Leesburg, Rev. Cook left the church seven years ago so he could concentrate full-time on his ministry.

Last year, the ministry provided confidential counseling to 800 pastors and/or spouses through Skype, email, and face-

to-face interaction. Care for Pastors offers use of the Serenity House, a fully furnished three-bedroom home in Leesburg for pastors who are burned out and need a respite. Pastors from as far away as Canada and the Philippines have stayed in the home for a week.

“Throughout the week, I give them homework assignments based on what they’ve learned in counseling,” he says. “After they visit, we provide six months of follow-up care. The change we see in them is tremendous. They go back to their churches feeling rejuvenated and encouraged and better prepared to serve because they found a safe place—a place of encouragement.”

Another aspect of the ministry is the Confidante, a program that helps pastors’ wives develop supportive relationships through a secured Facebook group, blog postings, and special events. In addition, Pastor Cook makes on-site visits to minister to pastors and their church staff.

“God has blessed us with this phenomenal ministry,” he says. “We don’t just focus on the spiritual aspect, but also the emotional and physical aspect. It’s important to address the whole person.”

For more information, visit careforpastors.org or call 352.728.8179.

Our physicians and medical professionals have been treating Central Floridians for years with a level of exemplary cardio care that comes straight from the heart. We’re in a new location now, but our hearts are where they’ve always been—in the right place—with you and the health of your family. New location! The Oaks Professional Center, 8575 NE 138th Lane Call today for a consultation at 352.674.2080 /// heartofthevillages

Medical Mysteries

PASS THE JALAPEÑOS— AND TISSUES!

When it’s hot, there may be snot!

WRITER: FRED HILTON

If you’re craving ethnic food, try that nice Indian restaurant and get an order of pork vindaloo. Or maybe have some Hunan spicy beef at your favorite Chinese place, or Mexican, with piles of jalapeños on nachos and even that scary hot sauce.

All of these dishes have three things in common: they’re tasty, burn your tongue, and make your nose run.

You expect the food to be good and burn your tongue. But the runny nose? Admittedly, that reaction is a bit strange, but this medical mystery has a simple and straightforward solution.

These foods contain a chemical called capsaicin. In plants, it’s used as a biological weapon against predatory animals. The capsaicin stops animals from crunching the seeds, eating the fruits, or harming the plants. Capsaicin irritates any soft tissue it comes in contact with, causing the burning sensation on your tongue. However, Mental Floss says it also can “cause the painful sting of post-chili-handling eye contact and a seriously runny nose.” When mucous membranes get hit by capsaicin, “they become inflamed and go into defense mode… producing mucous to trap allergens and other undesirables…keeping them out of your respiratory system

by removing them via the nasal passage.”

The website PepperScale agrees but isn’t as delicate: “Your body thinks there’s an irritant present, so the mucous membranes go on the defense to protect your respiratory system. That defense is to create more snot.”

Capsaicin isn’t the only culprit. Allyl isothiocyanate is a colorless oil found in mustard, radishes, and wasabi. Like capsaicin, it is a defense against animals. With Japanese sushi, you can get a major dose of allyl isothiocyanate from a big chunk of the wasabi that comes with it.

If the spiciness is too much, skip water and beer and reach for milk. Capsaicin’s oily quality keeps it from dissolving in water and beer contains too little alcohol to be more effective than water. Milk, on the other hand, quenches capsaicin’s fire effectively.

Enjoy your hot food, along with the accompanying capsaicin and allyl isothiocyanate. Just take plenty of tissues.

Sources

“Why Spicy Foods Can Cause Your Nose to Run,” by Daven Hiskey, Today I Found Out, Feb. 22, 2011. http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2011/02/why-spicy-foods-can-cause-your-nose-to-run/

“Why Do Spicy Foods Make Your Nose Run?” by Matt Soniak, Mental Floss, Oct. 5, 2011. http://mentalfloss.com/article/28922/why-do-spicy-foods-make-your-nose-run

“Why Does Your Nose Run When You Eat Spicy Food?” by Nicholas Gerbis, Life’s Little Mysteries Contributor, Live Science, Aug. 10, 2010. http://www.livescience.com/32752-why-does-your-nose-run-when-you-eat-spicy-food.html

“Why Does Your Nose Run When You Eat Spicy Food?” PepperScale, June 19, 2014. http://www.pepperscale.com/why-does-your-nose-run-when-you-eat-spicy-food/

“Why Does Spicy Food Make Your Nose Run?” by Dr. Pramod Kerkar, Pain Assist Inc. July 8, 2016. https://www.epainassist.com/articles/why-does-spicy-food-make-your-nose-run

TAKE

CH AR GE

OF YOUR HEALTH

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

For men, it is no secret that each decade brings different health challenges. Unfortunately, men of all ages tend to be more dismissive toward health than their female counterparts, leading to costly and potentially fatal illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

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Here’s the good news. No matter your age and despite your busy schedules, there’s still plenty of time to overcome a lack of exercise and a bad diet.

Healthy Living

Lake County men representing fi decades. They are living proof that, with some commitment and dedication, men can indeed live healthy and active lifestyles.

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We’ve also included fi decade of a man’s life, as well as tips to nourish their mind and spirit. After all, when the four pillars—body, mind, spirit, and fi balance, men can achieve long-term happiness and health.

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Here’s a decade-by-decade look at how men of all ages can lead a healthy lifestyle and achieve optimal well-being.

TIPS FOR 20-SOMETHINGS

• Get checked for STDs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as one in two sexually active people will contract an STD by age 25. An undiagnosed STD can lead to long-term health issues.

• High blood pressure and cholesterol can develop in your 20s. Schedule annual physician exams to identify these problems before they become serious.

• Establish healthy habits, such as exercise, nutrition, and adequate sleep. This leads to better health down the road.

ohnny Malik, a 27-year-old resident of Eustis, does not want to become an obesity statistic. A sales associate at Gator HarleyDavidson in Leesburg, Johnny is an avid exercise enthusiast who takes his health to heart. Rather than waste his lunch hour gobbling down greasy cheeseburgers, he works out in the dealership’s upstairs gym by performing bench presses and strengthening his lower body.

“I always feel better after I work out. For me, it’s a sense of accomplishment,” he says. “When I don’t work out, I feel sluggish and lazy.”

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After work, he switches his focus to cardiovascular health by competing on adult league soccer and kickball teams, both of which are sponsored by the city of Leesburg.

“I typically do not arrive home until late, but I don’t mind it because I’ve always been active and don’t like to sit still,” he says.

sit still,” he says.

“My grandpa died of high blood pressure, so I feel it’s important to stay ahead of the game and live a healthy life. It keeps me feeling young.”

• Cut down on the partying and find something bigger and better in life.

• You have the time and energy to travel. This helps you experience different cultures, expands your mind, and makes you happier.

Part of that healthy lifestyle means avoiding fast-food restaurants. His diet primarily consists of chicken, sh, and vegetables.

“I make my own lunches and bring them to work. If I didn’t do that, then there would be more temptation to grab lunch at a restaurant,” he says.

For Johnny, who is unmarried and has no children, looking and feeling good certainly has other advantages.

You don’t have to be middle-aged to experience significant gains around the middle. In fact, a 2008 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that more than 30 percent of Americans between the ages of 20 and 39 are obese. ohn resi to b A sales Davidson exer waste his down gre dealersh p bench pr strengthe lower bo “I alwa aft For me, i accompli “When I After w cardiova adult lea both of w of Leesbu

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• Find a passion that helps bring you a sense of identity and purpose.

“It makes me feel more confident when I’m speaking with the ladies.”

• Establish a budget and do not live beyond your means.

• Start saving for retirement. It may seem far away, but your golden years will truly be golden if you start saving now.

• Start building up your credit score by paying bills on time and not maxing out your credit card.

Source: kiplinger.com/article/saving/T063-C006-S001-10-financial-commandments-for-your-20s.html

Ahhh…the big 4-0. You’ve successfully transitioned from young adulthood to middle age. This is an extremely crucial decade to develop healthy habits such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating right. Any doctor will tell you that doing so can help prevent future health problems.

One of those doctors is Sijo Parekattil, a urologist and co-director of the Personalized Urology and Robotics (PUR) Clinic at South Lake Hospital. Feeling overweight and sluggish, the 43-yearold Clermont resident embarked on a lifestyle change in November 2015.

From a health standpoint, it was the wisest decision he ever made. With the assistance of a nutritionist and personal trainer, he lost 50 pounds and watched his pants size drop from 38 to 32.

“I always tell my patients to exercise and lose weight, but how were they supposed to take me seriously when I was overweight myself?” the doctor says. “I realized that I could not merely talk the talk;

I also had to walk the walk. Now that I’m living a healthy lifestyle, I get to lead by example. There’s no better feeling than that.” Despite his demanding career, he frequents a gym daily in the early-morning hours to focus on strength training and cardiovascular workouts. Additionally, healthy foods such as oatmeal, chicken, fi greens, and protein shakes are a big part of his nutrition regimen.

“When you hit your 40s, you realize that you are no longer invincible,” he says. “At this age, living a healthy lifestyle takes preparation, technique, and dedication. However, if you’re willing to put in the time, you will experience amazing results. I feel like I’m in better shape than I’ve ever been.”

HEALTH TIPS FOR 60-SOMETHINGS

With retirement looming, you may be wondering how you’re going to spend all that free time. Endless rounds of golf? Luxurious vacations? Nonstop travel? Those are all great, but don’t forget that you’re now more prone to health problems, such as aching knees, creaking hips, heart attacks, and strokes. You certainly don’t want to spin your wheels with no health goals in sight.

, of course, those wheels ttached oad

nless, of course, those wheels are attached to a road bike traveling considerable distances. Such is the case for Paul Ratliff, a 61-year-old resident of The Villages and an avid cycling enthusiast.

ber des three

total of 150 ch ride, he averages hour.

As a member of The Village Bicycle Club, Paul rides three times a week with fellow members while accumulating a total of 150 miles. On each ride, he averages 19 miles per hour.

“One of my lifetime goals is to reach the age of 100,” says Paul, who joined the club four years ago after moving from Massachusetts to The Villages.

He also cycles Virginia’s scenic Blue Ridge Parkway each year.

“I’ve definitely increased my speed and endurance over the past four years. I’m living proof that you’re never too old to begin a new form of exercise,” he says.

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In addition to cycling, Paul plays pickleball twice a week and also frequents a local gym.

“For me, the greatest benefits of exercise are that it relieves stress and helps clear your mind. I feel invigorated when I’m finished,” he says. That is why Paul becomes irked when others his age lead sedentary lifestyles.

“People say they’re too old or too tired or they don’t feel good. People our age need to be active,” he says. “The best way is to find an exercise you like, start slowly, and gradually increase your endurance. Exercise pays big benefi

That is irked when others h lead lifestyle say tired or they don’t feel age need to be active, find an e start gradu your Exer benefits.”

by: hot by snapspsho al sna ncial snapshot

Open your eyes to restored vision and confidence!

“The entire staff treat you tremendously! They are the epitome of professionalism. Before [eyelid surgery] I looked like my father and after, I look like a whole new person. I would recommend Dr. Terpstra to anyone.”

Over time, gravity can cause your eyelids to sag, get puffy or turn outward, creating vision problems and making your face look more tired and haggard than you feel. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer from disabling and disfiguring eyelid problems, thanks to a safe cosmetic surgery called blepharoplasty.

Board Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Shelby Terpstra is highly experienced in cosmetic and reparative blepharoplasty, and has returned clear vision, a refreshed appearance and self-confidence to hundreds of patients. “Most report seeing, looking and feeling better than they have in years,” says Dr. Terpstra. “Blepharoplasty can be truly rejuvenating.” In some cases the surgery is covered by insurance, so call today to schedule an appointment and learn what blepharoplasty can do to improve your vision and your life.

Board-certified ophthalmologist: SHELBY L. TERPSTRA, DO

Board-certified ophthalmologist: VINAY GUTTI, MD

— MIKE

FLASCH

A CHANGING CULTURE

Central Florida once was known as the king of citrus. Despite the misfortunes that hit the industry, agriculture lives on in Lake and Sumter counties.

WRITER: CHRIS GERBASI PHOTOS: PROVIDED

Not many people would have bet the farm on the future of agriculture in Lake County in 1990

A.F.—After Freeze.

A series of freezes in the 1980s, culminating with recordbreaking low temperatures in December 1989, wiped out most of the citrus groves in Lake. Once the secondlargest citrus-growing county in the state with 122,777 acres in 1980, Lake had just 8,766 acres of citrus groves

as of 2016, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

But agriculture has endured in many forms, with and without citrus. Tree farms, nurseries, livestock production, and landscaping services are plentiful throughout Lake and Sumter counties. The region’s agricultural future is now, from high-tech labs to classrooms, where students still learn the business through the Future Farmers of America program:.

Cherrylake, 7836 Cherry Lake Road, Groveland.

Michel and Veronique Sallin know the impact of the 1980s freezes all too well. After their citrus groves were devastated in 1985, they replanted 10 acres with containerized ornamental trees and renamed the land Cherry Lake Tree Farm.

Cherrylake, as it’s been rebranded, now has 250 employees, 1,000 acres in Groveland, and 800 more acres around the state, making it one of the largest tree farms in the country, marketing director Chloe Gentry says.

Michel remained dedicated to farming because his father was an apple farmer in France.

“He had a will and a want to stay in agriculture,” says Chloe, adding that the Sallins’ son, Timothee, is president of family-oriented Cherrylake.

Cherrylake sells 49 varieties of trees and shrubs to new construction sites, including projects for Disney World and Universal Orlando. Popular varieties include live oak, palm, elm, maple, magnolia, bald cypress, and evergreen.

Business is thriving, Chloe says, but the company is tied to construction, so the housing bust hit hard a decade ago. Company leaders were confident, however, the market would come back.

“The game of agriculture is a game of patience and vision,” Chloe says. “You need a vision of what the market will be eight, nine, 10 years out.”

Branching out into landscape contracting and maintenance also helped the company.

“Diversification is so important because we don’t control a lot of factors,” Chloe says. “We don’t control the weather or the market, or disease and pests, and we’ve experienced all of that.”

Uncle Matt’s Organic, 1645 E. Highway 50, Suite 102, Clermont.

By the mid-1980s, the McLean family had been citrus growers for several decades. But after a freeze in 1983, Benny McLean and his father, Ben, lost every tree on their 550 acres.

As they drove through the wasteland, Benny’s father told him: “One day, you’re going to look back and say, ‘I just can’t believe all the opportunities that came to me after this disaster.’”

The words proved prophetic. Benny went on to become an international growing consultant, working with novice growers in the Bahamas and seven Central American countries.

Benny’s son, Matt McLean, then started Uncle Matt’s Organic in 1999, spearheading a new market in Florida for organic products, such as fresh fruit, juices, and flavored water. Benny is head of production over 800 acres, and also grows red navels, valencias, honeybell tangelos, red grapefruit, and pummelos on his own farm on top of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Uncle Matt’s oversees independent growers in Lake, Polk, and Highlands counties. Ongoing problems with greening disease have taken a toll—organic farmers are no more immune to it than conventional growers— but Benny sticks with citrus. He jokes that he’s not smart enough to do anything else, but family tradition is the real reason.

Benny now has a dozen grandchildren, ages 3 to 21, learning how to work in the citrus fields.

“I have a passion for this,” he says. “It’s very rewarding to me as a grandfather to work out here with my grandkids. You have to understand the love of the soil, the love of the fruit.”

Anna and Nate Jameson started their citrus business in 1998 in Hillsborough County, where trees were plentiful. But in 2007, a state rule went into effect requiring all citrus nurseries to grow inside protected environments to limit the risk of disease.

So, the Jamesons decided to move their containerized citrus nursery to Anna’s home county of Sumter, where there was little citrus.

“Sumter has provided isolation from the citrus industry and, by default, from disease,” Anna says.

While she says citrus growers have become more optimistic this year about finding a solution to greening disease, Brite Leaf’s indoor operations can fully protect citrus from disease—as long as no one brings it in.

Brite Leaf, one of about 48 citrus nurseries in Florida, is “high-tech” out of necessity, Anna says.

Brite Leaf is fully enclosed and climate controlled, so freezes are not an issue, and sanitation is a high priority. Automated machines hydrate the coconut fiber soil that is shipped in compressed bales from India. Other machinery allows irrigation and fertigation, or the injection of fertilizers, at the same time.

Brite Leaf grows 40 varieties of citrus trees, including orange, lemon, lime, and other exotic citrus varieties, and primarily sells to commercial grove owners. Sales have been flat because of greening disease in groves. But ornamental tree sales to homeowners and garden centers have helped offset the drop, Anna says.

“Homeowners are wanting citrus more than ever,” she says. “I don’t know if it’s the whole edible craze or the ‘I want to grow for myself’ idea.”

AG3, 19825 State Road 44, Eustis.

AG3 is a biological technology company that produces and sells tissue-culture liners—creating an exact replica of a “mother” plant and growing limitless duplicates from a single plant.

The company is one of just 15 or so tissue-culture labs in the country, marketing director Belynda Rinck says. With 90 employees engaged in year-round production, AG3 turns out about 9 million ornamental plants a year. All plants are made in the lab, so AG3 is not at the mercy of the seasons, and no outside materials are used—it’s a pure production facility.

“Everything we sell, we create right here,” says Belynda, wife of owner Mike Rinck.

When the plants are large enough to be harvested, they are planted in soil and allowed to root and grow to a height of three-to-five inches in greenhouses, she says. Then they are sold as liners in 72-cell packs to wholesale growers, such as nurseries and garden centers, in-state and around the country. Those growers potentially sell the plants to larger chains.

AG3 produces 500 varieties of plants and grasses, including perennials, bulbs, tropical foliage, and carnivorous plants, Belynda says. The company, which was incorporated in 1993, purchased a second lab in 2007 in Apopka, adding landscaped plants, aquatics, ferns, and more tropicals.

Over time, the business started flourishing, Belynda says.

“We made the turn about two years ago. With the economy coming back and the housing market coming back, people want more plants,” she says, adding that an improving housing market also has boosted AG3’s grass sales.

Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery, 480 County Road 416 S., Lake Panasoffkee.

“Homeowners are wanting citrus more than ever.”

Future Farmers of America, Lake and Sumter schools

William Jameson, son of the Brite Leaf owners, is the outgoing president of the state Future Farmers of America Association. New officers will be elected this month during the state convention at Orlando. William, who graduated in 2016 from South Sumter High School, plans to pursue an officer’s position at the national level or attend college.

Statewide, FFA membership is at an all-time high of 16,000, says Tim Edwards, an agriscience teacher at South Sumter and FFA advisor to both William and, 30-plus years ago, William’s mother, Anna.

About 220 students participate in South Sumter High’s two FFA chapters and a middle school chapter. Wildwood Middle High also has two chapters.

“I feel agriculture has continued to thrive in Sumter; it has just changed its face,” Tim says. “We have seen the decline of vegetable and fruit farming, but an increase in nursery production and beef cattle production. Lawn and landscape services are considered a part of agriculture. The addition of all the golf courses in the county will also open another avenue under the agriculture umbrella.”

He also points to increased technology use at citrus tree nurseries such as Brite Leaf, Cutrale Farms in Webster, and Agromillora in Wildwood. This has shaped curriculum in the classroom as well with the addition of courses in biotechnology and unmanned aerial systems.

“I think the programs continue to thrive due to tradition, family, and a community that is interested in the industry,” Tim says.

In Lake County Schools, about 500 students participate in FFA or agri-technology programs at seven high schools and three middle schools, says Julie Summerlin, director of career technical education for the district.

“All the schools are very big on it,” she says. “Ag is very strong in the community and Lake County overall, both in the plant and animal competitions.”

Six high school chapters and two middle school chapters have won state championships in recent years in various

categories, says Rickey Odom, an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for 35 years.

Rickey built the ag program at South Lake High School, which has produced several state officers, and now is growing interest at Leesburg High.

“Agriculture has evolved greatly since citrus was king. We have changed to meet the needs of the changing economy,” Rickey says, referring to tree farms, nurseries, and lawn maintenance services catering to a growing population, and a thriving floriculture industry in the Golden Triangle area.

FFA membership is steady and gaining more urban students, though additional teachers are needed, he says.

The future of agriculture appears to be in the hands of today’s students.

“Many of our urban kids are thrilled by their attempts at growing gardens in class,” Rickey says. “Many of our students have never experienced growing their own garden. They are attracted to the agriculture classes because of the activities offered to them through the FFA program.”

“Agriculture has evolved greatly since citrus was king. We have changed to meet the needs of the changing economy.”

IS YOUR KNEE PAIN A TORN MENISCUS?

Essen al for mo ility an o en o er u li e the knee joint ecomes suscep le to pro lems an injury. One type of knee injury commonly seen in an orthopae ic clinic is a meniscus tear.

The knee is ma e up of three ones the femur (thigh one) the ia (shin one) an the patella (knee cap). The meniscus is a half moon-shape we ge-like cushion that lies between the bones in your knee joint allowing your weight to be e ually istribute across the bones.

a e up of car lage the we ges not only stabili e the knee but also allow the joint to smoothly sli e an mo e in many irec ons. hen the meniscus is torn or amage you lose part of that cushioning system; your weight is no longer applie e enly across your bones so grin ing an wearing occurs as bone meets bone. er me arthri s of the knee joint e elops as the stresse bones take on more of the buren of your weight.

Meniscus tears are most commonly cause by trauma (athle c injuries) an the aging process (as we age our carlage becomes bri le.) hen the injury occurs in athletes the pa ent typically escribes a popping sensa on in his her knee when par cipa ng in a sporting e ent. Surprisingly most people are s ll able to walk a er tearing their meniscus an we o en see athletes return to the el a er this type of knee injury. The seriousness of the injury is not apparent un l later when the knee becomes in ame feels painful ght an may be uite swollen.

Treatment a er ini al injury shoul follow the formula ( est ce ompression an le a on.) f the knee reco ers fully a er treatment then no other treatment may be necessary. owe er if there are s ll problems with the knee a piece of the meniscus may be torn or loose an oa ng aroun insi e the joint causing the knee to lock slip or pop. n some

cases the knee will catch or lock an the pa ent will ha e to manually manipulate the joint to straighten it.

nlike the athletes ol er folks o en on t e perience trauma when they injure their meniscus. nstea the wear an tear on the joint o er the years weakens the meniscus un l one ay a egenera e tear appears.

f you think you ha e a torn meniscus you shoul see your physician to ha e this e aluate further. our e am will inclu e your physician taking a careful history of your symptoms palpa ng the joint an no ng areas of ten erness. -rays an an M may also be or ere by your physician to be er isuali e what is occurring insi e your joint. f a meniscus tear oes appear on your M the ne t step is to etermine treatment an most pointe ly whether or not surgery is in icate . Some mes an in i i ual is not a goo surgical can i ate or his her meniscus tear symptoms are minimal in this case we can take a wait an see

Symptoms of a torn meniscus may inclu e (but are not limite to)

• knee pain;

• knee swelling commonly referre to as water on the knee or technically an e usion;

• hearing a popping or clicking within the knee; an

• limite mo on of the knee joint.

approach. Surgery is sought when the nee eco es pro e a c an inter eres with ay to ay ac i es.

surgery is in icate your surgeon wi reco en either a eniscus repair (repairing the tear) or a par a eniscecto y (tri ing an re o ing the torn or oose pieces o eniscus in your oint) ase on your speci c in ury.

eniscus repair is an a e pt to u y restore the structure an ecause it is a ore e tensi e surgica proce ure re uires a onger reco ery. The failure rate is higher with eniscus repair ecause the elicate eniscus ssue lac s an a e uate loo supply an oes not heal well. owe er if the repair is successful the joint is healthier in the long run.

hen the injure ssue has co pletely lost its loo supply or is ta ere eyon repair a par al eniscecto y is perfor e . eniscecto y uic ly relie es the ost otherso e sy pto s has a faster reco ery than eniscus repair ut ecause a por on of the nee s cushioning is re o e will not re uce the risk for further progression of arthri s.

oth eniscus repair an par al meniscectomy are arthroscopic surgeries. The arthroscope gi es your surgeon a clear iew of the interior of your knee with the ene t of only a couple of small incisions (each appro imately one cen meter in length). sing ny instruments your surgeon can trim fraye areas suture tears an remo e fragments of the meniscus that ha e roken loose.

The outcome of the surgery epen s on se eral factors inclu ing the se erity of the par cular injury the egree of amage an associate arthri s. s men one earlier reco ery is epen ent on the type of surgery (repair ersus par al

meniscectomy) but most report only nee ing a couple of ays o from work un l they are up again. owe er further reco ery an return to more aggressi e ac i es or physical labor o en takes longer an physical therapy may be bene cial for reco ering full func on of the knee in theweeks following surgery.

Please note that although arthroscopy can e ec ely treat

many problems you may ha e some ac ity limita ons e en a er reco ery. return to intense physical ac ity shoul only be one un er the irec on of your surgeon.

etter Mo ement. etter Moments.

Movement is meant to be pain free and moments have the power to shape our lives. Injury and pain can make it feel like your life has been put on pause.

At The Orthopaedic Institute, our goal is to take exceptional care of you. From diagnosis to recovery, we can help you press play again. Our highly trained specialists understand that better movement leads to better moments.

HEALTH CARE FOR THE UNDERSERVED

Medical and dental clinics in Lake County fill a void by offering health care to children and adults without insurance, yet it’s a constant push to make the community aware they exist.

WRITER: THERESA CAMPBELL PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

Health experts believe 20 percent of the local indigent population doesn’t know it is eligible for free medical and dental services at clinics staffed by volunteer doctors, while centers in Leesburg, Tavares, and Groveland offer sliding-fee discounts for qualifying patients.

John Riordan, director of marketing and community relations for Community Health Centers, says the Leesburg location, 225 N. 1st St., provides family medicine, gynecology, behavioral health, pediatrics, and soon will offer dental and optometry services—all part of the center’s expansion tentatively slated to be completed by late summer.

“There are not a lot of dental providers who accept Medicaid or those without insurance, so to have something for those underserved patients is going to be great,” John says.

Optometry and dental services are in demand.

“Optometry is a huge benefit, not only for pre-diabetics and diabetic patients, it’s a service that kind of complements diabetics who have some vision problems or they really need vision screenings, so this is a service that will be much needed,” says John, adding it’s vital for people to experience good dental health.

“If you ever look at dental studies for children, they start to have issues with

eating when their teeth hurt,” he says. “They have cavities, and concentration is difficult in school because of tooth pain. So, good dental hygiene and good dental health put children in a much better position for the rest of their lives.”

The center has seen too many adults who have neglected dental care.

“We see them far too late,” he says. “We want to get people in when they are children, so they start doing the right things of brushing their teeth, flossing, getting dental checkups.”

Community Health Centers has 12 locations throughout Central Florida. In addition to the Leesburg site, there’s Community Health Center South Lake, 1296 Broad St., Groveland, and Community Health Center Tavares, 212 E. Main St.

The three centers in Lake County saw a total of 18,000 unduplicated patients in 2016, according to John. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, MediPass, CHIP, and Healthy Kids, and most managed care plans, including HMOs, PPOs, and private insurance plans. A sliding discount program is available for those meeting income guidelines.

“We go to community events, reminding people that we are here,” John says, adding the centers offer some extended evening hours. “We have our own low-cost pharmacy, our own lab, so they can come to one place. We try to make it really easy on our patients, so they can use our pharmacy, use our lab, all on the same day as their office visit.”

People may call 352.314.7400 for additional information about the Leesburg, Tavares or Groveland centers.

Free services for indigent

Community Medical Care Center,

1210 W. Main St., Leesburg, is a nonprofit clinic offering free primary care, specialty care, chronic disease management, and dental care to uninsured and indigent residents, ages 3-64, living in the Leesburg Regional Medical Center district, throughout Sumter County, and in southern Marion County (mostly Summerfield).

Director Tammy Halsey strives to make more people aware of the facility that serves those whose incomes fall at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. For a single person, one’s gross income cannot exceed $1,508 a month, and $500 a month for each additional family member.

“We have a wonderful group of dedicated professionals who are volunteering their time and

FREE MEDICAL CLINICS IN LAKE COUNTY

Community Medical Care Center

1210 W. Main St. Leesburg 34748

352.787.8489

Florida Hospital Waterman Community Primary Health Center

2300 Kurt St. Eustis 32726

352.589.2501

WIN Clinic of LifeStream Behavioral Center

215 N. 3rd St. Leesburg 34748

352.315.7946

South Lake Health Clinic

835 7th St. Clermont 34711

352.243.6280

CLINICS WITH SLIDING-FEE SCALES

Leesburg Family Health Center

225 N. 1st St. Leesburg 34748

352.435.6699

South Lake Family Health Center

1296 W. Broad St. Groveland 34736

352.314.7400

St. Luke Free Medical and Dental Clinic

722 S. Grove St. Eustis 32726

352.602.4620

Tavares Community Health Center

212 E. Main St. Tavares 32778

352.314.7410

services to help people, and we have appointments available,” says Tammy, who notes 20 percent of the local population is eligible for free health-care services.

The center sees about 600 patients a month; dental care is the most popular service.

“We currently have six dentists who are signed up to volunteer with us, and they are all retired dentists out of The Villages,” she says, adding patients first attend an oral hygiene class, where they are given a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash—everything they need to start taking care of their teeth—before an initial exam and treatment plan with a hygienist and dentist.

“We are trying to target children,” Tammy says of providing medical and dental services, wellness visits, school physicals, sports physicals, and treatment of upper respiratory infections and other childhood diseases.

“We have a pediatrician who thinks I have allowed him to retire, and that is not the case,” Tammy says. “He is available on call as needed, and we haven’t needed him. We would like to make people aware that we are here and that we do serve children. Many times, it may just be for a gap until they can get coverage for their kids.”

Most of the adult diagnoses at the center are these five conditions: hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, asthma, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and depression.

“The depression tends to go handin-hand with diabetes,” Tammy says.

Last year, the center saw more than 5,600 patients.

The director is proud of the services the Community Medical Care Center provides, and when patients need serious medical attention, care is provided by Leesburg Regional Medical Center.

“Patients get approved for charity care through the hospital, and they can get their procedures done, the MRIs, the ultrasound, all of those things, and we do many surgeries every year,” she says. “We like them to think of the center as their medical

and dental home for their annual checkups; we don’t like a Band-Aid treatment plan.”

The center was incorporated in 1999 after being started by First Baptist Church and Leesburg Regional Medical Center. It can be reached by calling 352.787.8489.

Florida Hospital Waterman

Community Primary Care Center, 2300 Kurt St., Eustis, is a free clinic that has been around for nearly 17 years, and is available for uninsured patients residing in the northeast Lake County communities of Tavares, Eustis, Mount Dora, parts of Howeyin-the-Hills, Umatilla, and Astor.

“A lot of people do not know the free clinic is available to them, or they don’t believe that it is a free clinic,” Director Melissa Simmes says.

“We are finding a lot of patients, unfortunately, at a time when they need medical or preventative care. They don’t have insurance because they do not qualify or can’t afford plans available through the Affordable Care Act, are not offered plans through their employer, or they may not be working, or eligible for Medicaid,” she says.

About 200 patients visit the Eustis clinic each month, Melissa says. It can be reached by calling 352.589.2501.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The clinics within the North Lake County Hospital District (Astatula, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mount Dora, Tavares, and Umatilla) receive financial support from a hospital tax (about $120 annually from residents’ property taxes). A continuation of the assessment was approved for another 10 years by voters in the November 2016 general election.

LEESBURG FAMILY HEALTH CENTER

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CARE CENTER

FLORIDA HOSPITAL WATERMAN COMMUNITY PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER

MEET THE SURGEON

Jason Boardman

Varicose and spider veins are not just a cosmetic issue. Are your legs heavy and tired? Do they swell? Do you have skin color or texture changes in the lower part of your legs? All of these symptoms can be related to vein disease of the legs.

Did you know that over 40 million of Americans suffer from some sort of vein disease? Some risk factors for developing varicose veins are family history, female sex, pregnancy, being overweight, standing for long periods of time or a history of a clot in the veins of the leg. More people have venous disease than have heart disease.

Long standing vein disease of the legs can progress to a much more serious issue other than unsightly varicose veins. Some people with vein disease will have it progress to the point where they begin to get skin changes and even skin breakdown from the underlying vein disease.

At Mid-Florida Surgical Associates, Dr Jason Boardman, MD, FACS, is trained in diagnosing and treating vein disease. Depending on the extent of the disease it can even be treated in our office with little or no downtime.

If you would like to schedule an appointment to have your”legs evaluated please call our office at (352) 243-2622.

M.D., F.A.C.S.

The focus of our practice is to provide the very best in surgical care to our patients. We strive to treat you like family.

NASAL RELIEF ALLERGY AND SINUS

352.728.2404

LEESBURG THE VILLAGES TAVARES

Michael A. Freedman, DO

S. Dwight Vaught, MD

Judith Milstead, MD

Dino Madonna, MD

We’re Looking for Lake County’s Twenty

Most Influential People in Health and Wellness

We’ve all met that awesome person in the world of health and fitness who made such a big impact on our lives.

A NUTRITIONIST WHO HELPED YOU SHED POUND AFTER UNWANTED POUND.

A PERSONAL TRAINER WHO HELPED YOU ACHIEVE GOALS YOU NEVER THOUGHT WERE ATTAINABLE.

OKAY, YOU GET THE PICTURE.

Healthy Living wants to recognize Lake County’s top 20 influential people in health and wellness. And we’re asking for the help of our readers.

This month, we want you to visit our website so you can list your nominee. You have a full month to make your nomination.

From there, we will select the top 20 people who receive

A PHYSICAL THERAPIST WHO RELIEVED YOUR UNRELENTING BACK PAIN.

A FAMILY DOCTOR WHO TREATS YOUR CHILDREN’S ILLNESSES AND HAS A WONDERFUL BEDSIDE MANNER.

the most nominations, and their names will appear on Healthy Living’s website and in the August issue of Healthy Living. We ask you to vote for the person you feel is the most influential in the health and wellness field.

The most influential person will be revealed on the cover of our September issue along with the

names and profiles of the other 19 nominees.

Please understand this effort cannot be a success without YOUR participation.

Thanks so much for your help, and we look forward to reading about your nominee!

Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”

—Benjamin Franklin

“My favorite thing to do is teach how to cook easy, healthy, budget-friendly meals with minimal ingredients!”

Jaime Alonso

Certified Health Coach

SLOW COOKER SMOKY POT ROAST

INGREDIENTS

Large cut of rump roast or chuck roast (make sure it fits in your slow cooker)

DIRECTIONS

Badia brand

Holy Smokes

Pork and Meat Rub

black pepper1-2 fresh rosemary sprigs

1. Rub smoky seasoning and black pepper all over rump roast

2. Add oil to a heated frying pan or skillet

3. Add roast to sear on all sides until outsides are browned

4. Add roast to crockpot

cooking oil— coconut or avocado oil

I received my initial training and certification as a wellness coach at Spencer Institute. I continued my training as a health coach at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s cutting-edge health coach training program. I studied more than 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovative coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts. My teachers included Dr. Andrew Weil, director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine; Dr. Deepak Chopra, leader in the field of mind-body medicine; Dr. David Katz, director of Yale University’s Prevention Research Center; Dr. Walter Willet, chair of nutrition at Harvard University; Geenan Roth, bestselling author and expert on emotional eating; and other leading researchers and nutrition authorities.

At Total Nutrition and Therapeutics, I help you create a “sustainable” lifestyle change. Meeting you where you are in your journey and equipping you with practical tools to grow and learn new strategies; teaching you how to shop and plan meals; helping you create new ideas; and learning how to eat out are a few of the handson lessons you receive. I teach you how to live well for life!

A HEALTHY WAY TO ENJOY GREAT COMFORT FOOD

MEN & GOOD HEALTH

Last month, I wrote about women’s health issues.

Now, it’s men’s turn. There are many issues of interest to men.

Prostate health is, of course, a uniquely male concern. Others that are primarily, but not uniquely, in the male provenance include heart disease, elevated cholesterol and other fats in the blood, hair loss, and erectile dysfunction. When it comes to injuries and death from accidents or violence, men lead women by a factor of two to one in all categories, except, oddly, firerelated injuries.

Prostate health

Like the uterus in women, the prostate is found only in men. It is a small, walnut-size organ that sits just under the urinary bladder. It produces some of the fluid that mixes with sperm to form semen. Contraction of the prostate helps propel semen out of the penis during ejaculation.

Enlargement of the prostate is considered part of normal aging. Between 40 and 80 years of age, the prostate may more than double in size. Because it surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out through the penis, enlargement of the prostate can impede urine flow, a condition called benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH.

Most men will experience some degree of BPH during their life, with 80 percent having this by age 80. Symptoms of decreased urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and dribbling of urine may occur in over one-third of men. There are a variety of medications and treatments for BPH.

Cancer of the prostate is the most common cancer in men outside of skin cancer. Only lung cancer causes more cancer deaths. Even so, prostate cancer, especially in older men, is not considered as dangerous as other cancers because it often follows a very slow course of progression. Many men with prostate cancer die of other causes instead. This has caused much controversy as to whether men should be screened for prostate cancer and how aggressively it should be treated. Although the verdict is still out on both issues, if you are over 40, African-American, or have a family history of prostate problems, you should talk to your physician about when to begin screening and how to do this.

“You’re in pretty good shape for the shape you are in.”—Dr. Seuss

WRITER: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, MD, FACS

Loss of muscle mass

It is an unfortunate fact that men peak physically somewhere between 20 and 30 years of age. After that, they tend to lose 3 percent to 5 percent of their muscle mass each decade. It has been shown, however, that this loss is not inevitable and can be prevented, or even reversed, by a simple measure: exercise. More and more, exercise is being regarded as close to a “magic bullet” for many conditions. There are several forms of exercise: aerobic (running, biking), resistance training (weight or strength training), and flexibility (yoga, Pilates). All play a role in staying healthy, but resistance is most effective for preventing or reversing muscle loss. Many falls and injuries in elderly men can be attributed to loss of strength.

Heart disease

Heart disease remains the leading killer of men, accounting for one in four deaths. Men account for just more than half of the deaths from heart disease each year, but they account for nearly 80 percent of sudden cardiac events: heart attacks, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden death. Risk factors for heart disease are well established and include family history, smoking, obesity, inactivity, elevated fat levels in the blood (cholesterol and triglycerides), high blood pressure, and diabetes among them. As with so much in medicine, prevention is the key and can avoid expensive, and potentially dangerous, treatments later. Once heart muscle has been damaged or lost, you cannot get it back.

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

ED. Two letters that strike fear into the hearts of men. Despite all the jokes, ED is no laughing matter to those who suffer from it. A normal erection depends on healthy blood vessels, and heart disease, with its attendant hardening of the arteries elsewhere in the body, is commonly associated with ED. Other medical causes are obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The list of medications and drugs that can cause ED is as long as, well, you know. Drugs to treat ED, such as Viagra and Cialis, are understandably popular. Penile implants are available to surgically treat ED, but carry all the risks of surgery and of the implants themselves. The specter of ED should be enough to encourage men to live healthy lives.

Lifestyle plays a crucial role in several of the above conditions. Young men should realize that the decisions they make in their 20s and 30s have consequences decades

Hair loss

While women can experience hair loss, it is not common, and there is a reason we call it “male” pattern baldness. Male hair loss is both genetic and related to the level of the male hormone testosterone. Male pattern baldness is not due to excess or deficient testosterone; it is due to an unusual sensitivity of the hair follicles to the hormone, causing them to cease producing hair. About 25 percent of men begin to experience hair loss at age 21. By age 35, two-thirds of American men have appreciable hair loss. For men who cannot accept the hand dealt to them by nature, there are medications that can produce meaningful hair growth, including Rogaine and Propecia. They work best when started early in the course of hair loss. Hair transplant surgery is an option for men who desire, and can afford, permanent hair restoration. New techniques of micrografting, in which one to three hair follicles are transferred, rather than the old plugs, can produce a very natural look, but it comes at a hefty price—as much as $15,000.

later. There is no substitute for eating clean, maintaining ideal weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, getting enough rest, and so on. It isn’t rocket science.

THE NEW BABY BOOMER A CESSORY

Hearing aids can be an adjustment for a generation that doesn’t want to get old.

WRITER: MARY ANN DESANTIS

Imust have listened to Carlos Santana and the Moody Blues too much and too loud in the 1970s, because I found myself hardof-hearing before I reached age 60. At first, I was in denial that I was the one with the problem. I blamed poor acoustics in meeting rooms, and I accused my husband and others of mumbling.

A hearing test during a routine physical showed that I had profound hearing loss in my right ear. Still, I didn’t book an appointment with a hearing specialist for several years.

Baby boomers are notorious for not wanting

to repeat his comments several times that I accepted the fact it was time to get help. I could tell my interviewee was losing confidence in me. When one’s livelihood is threatened, the price of getting the problem fixed doesn’t seem so bad.

When I finally sat inside the “sound booth” for a comprehensive test at Mid-Florida Hearing, both ears were shot. My left ear was just slightly better than my right, which could hear sounds at only about 95 decibels. In other words, I could hear motorcycles and lawnmowers just fine, but forget about birds singing or someone whispering.

under my skin. Filing my fingernails sounded like a buzz saw, and squeaky door hinges felt like high-pitch sirens going off in my head. The cat’s meow for food suddenly became a tiger’s roar.

to get old—or at least not showing their ages. I had the same excuses many others of my generation professed:

My hearing really wasn’t that bad. People just needed to speak louder.

I was too young to wear hearing aids.

I couldn’t afford hearing aids.

As time progressed, I found myself withdrawing from social activities because I couldn’t follow the conversations. I stopped watching television because I missed so much of the dialogue, even with the volume turned full blast. Worst of all, I couldn’t hear my iPhone ringing if it wasn’t in the same room with me.

It was only after interviewing someone for a work-related project and asking him

Sadly, I’m not alone. About 20 percent of Americans—nearly 48 million—have some degree of hearing loss, according to John Hopkins Medicine, based in Baltimore. By age 65, one of three people is affected. Hearing loss is the third-most common physical condition after arthritis and heart disease, making it a major public health issue.

“The longer it takes to address hearing problems, the more challenging it becomes to get acclimated to hearing aids,” says Mark Eller, the board-certified hearing instrument specialist who fitted me. “The transition period becomes harder.”

Indeed, it does. After I bought an open-fit, receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid, I was in Mark’s office at least twice a week for the first two months. Everything sounded incredibly loud. When you are a writer, you like things to be quiet, but every little sound was getting

Trips for “adjustments” to my hearing aids could be frustrating at times, because I could not explain exactly what I was experiencing. Mark, who has the patience of a saint, even crafted a different kind of instrument that fit directly into my ears. Those lasted two days. I couldn’t stand the stuffed-cotton-inmy-ear feeling. It was back to the RIC aids, which he described as a “high fidelity stereo system with a wire running from the stereo to the receiver.”

I was almost ready to give up the expensive gizmos when Mark explained that hearing aids do not correct hearing like eyeglasses correct vision.

“Don’t expect 20/20 hearing,” he says. “You will never have the same level of hearing you did when your hearing was perfect. Hearing aids will help you in most situations, but the adjustments take time.”

When I realized I was indeed expecting 20/20 hearing, I finally was able to accept the small annoyances. Now, six months later, the transition period is behind me, and I’m glad I made the decision to fix the problem.

And the most fun is showing other baby boomers how I can control the volume and make adjustments to my hearing aids on my iPhone with a special app. I’ve gone from feeling old and deaf to having a hip new accessory that allows me to hear the birds singing and people whispering softly, “Isn’t she too young for hearing aids?”

“You will never have the same level of hearing you did when your hearing was perfect. Hearing aids will help you in most situations, but the adjustments take time.”

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POWERFUL STRATEGIES TO CONTROL YOUR ANGER

With the right help, you can control anger.

WRITER: AUSTIN G. HACKNEY

It’s normal to feel angry. It even can be a healthy response to a situation. But if you find your anger gets out of control, then it’s time to rein it in.

If you’re “seeing red,” and your anger is leading you to do and say things you regret, strategies approved by psychotherapists can help you get back in control.

Anger is never an excuse for behaving unfairly toward others. You have a responsibility to learn self-control. The following strategies will help.

Recognize the physical signs of anger

Anger isn’t just a mental state. It triggers powerful physical responses. Learn to recognize these signals as early as possible so you can calm down and rationalize your thoughts before it’s too late.

Physical signals of anger include increased heart rate, fast breathing, and trembling. People often grind their teeth, pace up and down, or clench their fists when angry. If you know you are losing control and start experiencing these effects, remove yourself from the situation that provoked the response until you are calmer.

Count to 10 and control your breathing

It’s almost a cliché, but the reason for the technique of counting to 10 is it works. It interrupts the immediate reaction and gives you time to reflect on your response. If you take 10 slow, deep breaths as you count, you’ll feel more relaxed and in control. If you tend to “fly off the handle” or lash out when you’re angry, this simple technique can help break the pattern.

Long-term anger management

Learning to recognize when you’re getting angry and how to regain control is important. But it is crucial to have a strategy that will help you overcome exaggerated or inappropriate bursts of anger. Exercise, self-care, creativity, and counseling can help.

Exercise reduces stress

Studies show that people who exercise experience less anger than people who live sedentary lives. It’s a great idea to take up a sport or get to the gym twice a week. Running,

swimming, and lifting weights are good ways to spend excess energy and calm yourself.

Look after yourself

People who have issues with anger should avoid alcohol and recreational drugs as they lower inhibitions, which is the opposite of what you need. Find other ways to relax and socialize, and be sure to get plenty of sleep. If you’re tired, you’ll be irritable and less in control.

Take part in creative activities

Anger often comes out of frustration and a feeling you can’t communicate. Taking up a creative hobby such as music, art, or dance can help release those feelings. Creative activities also help you reflect on your thoughts and feelings, making you less likely to react to something that angers you.

Counseling

Keeping your feelings bottled up is a sure way to lose control sooner or later. Holding on to resentments and angry thoughts, repeating them to yourself, and feeling negative can lead to a build-up of “emotional pressure.” With all that locked inside you, it may take only a small provocation to send you “flying off the handle.”

If you have friends you can confide in, discuss issues that concern you with

them. Many people find a counselor or therapist helps them rationalize thoughts and feelings. If you don’t like talking to someone face-to-face, there are many helpful online forums to discuss your feelings and stay anonymous. Whether with friends, a counselor, or on a forum, talking things over will help you understand yourself and give you a clearer perspective on how you feel.

See your doctor

If you feel you can’t control your anger alone and need support, see your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend anger management programs, including counseling and psychotherapy, that are available. These may be one-onone sessions or groups. Your doctor also will be able to refer you to social support if anger is creating problems for your family.

Uncontrolled anger is a destructive force. If you have difficulty controlling your anger and it leads to aggressive behavior, it’s never too late to regain control. A combination of the techniques explained here and professional support may be needed depending on the severity of your problem. But never put it off, as the longer you wait to tackle the issue, the more difficult it becomes.

THE WRITE STUFF: KEEPING A JOURNAL TO SOOTHE THE MIND

Putting thoughts on paper can open a new world of insight and bring many benefits.

WRITER: MARY ANN DESANTIS

Last year, my mother gave me an interesting and funny book: a 26-year-old journal of hers. I chuckled aloud as I read about her adventures and marveled at her insights. The journal showcased a side of her I didn’t know. It also was the catalyst for me to keep my own journal. In the months since I began with a pen and paper, I’ve noticed innumerable benefits.

Reducing stress

Writing in a journal is one of the best ways to practice “mindfulness,” a technique to focus attention on thoughts and feelings without judgment. Research from the University of Texas shows that regular journal writing reduces stress and makes us more aware of the triggers that cause it. Writing about stressful events often illuminates ways to come to terms with them.

Becoming more appreciative

Focusing on the present as I write makes me more appreciative of my surroundings. When I sit on my lanai early in the morning and write for a few minutes, I get in tune with nature. It’s easier to let go of stress with birds chirping and flowers blooming all around. Many people start a “blessings” journal to keep track of all the good things in their lives so they can be mindful of them when the going gets tough.

Meeting goals and keeping resolutions

A fortune was made with notebook planners in the business world before computers took over completely. In the 1980s, corporate executives kept elaborate notebooks with goals and targets listed on pre-printed pages. Research shows that written goals are, in fact, more likely to be met. On the first page of my journal, I scribbled a few personal resolutions, including one to measure my success at the end of the year. Six months later, and I’m still hanging in there.

Knowing myself better

My journal routine has helped me clarify my thoughts and feelings. It’s also helped me put situations into perspective and focus on things that are important. Most importantly, seeing myself has given me a better understanding of others.

Getting started

Buy a notebook. I have been inspired by the bookstore varieties with pre-printed quotes, because if I don’t know what to write, those pithy words are a prompt. Set aside 20 minutes a day for journal writing. Write quickly to free your mind and don’t worry about spelling and punctuation. It’s your book and privacy is key.

“Every day is a new day, and you’ll never be able to find happiness if you don’t move on.”

—Carrie Underwood

STOP TRYING TO PLEASE EVERYONE AND MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY

It’s OK to think about your own needs.

WRITER: BRIDGET WEBBER

Are you a people-pleaser? While it’s nice to help, your mission is impossible. You can’t keep everyone happy. Trying will leave you stressed. Stopping will empower you.

What creates a people-pleaser?

You may have learned to over-care as a child. Kids often are assigned roles by parents. One child is pretty, and another funny, caring, and so on. You take your label when you grow up, assuming the role you were given.

On other occasions, kids assume the role of caretaker when someone is ill. They might strengthen many positive traits at the time, like kindness and vigilance. Later, though, they apply what they’ve learned to all situations, trying to take care of everyone they meet with a need.

What’s wrong with caring for others all the time?

Although people desire harmony and strive for convivial relationships when they can, people-pleasers are

different. They don’t know when to stop, even when it is detrimental to their own well-being.

Rather than lending a helping hand when people are in need, they try to fulfill every desire. The need never stops, nor does the people-pleaser.

You forget your needs, like relaxing, and then you feel overanxious. You fail to recognize stress-related symptoms and focus on the people around you.

You create such dependence that the ones you help have no confidence in their ability to cope. Since they continue to require attention, you struggle to please, creating an unhealthy pattern.

How to stop

Consider ways you help people that aren’t helpful to their well-being. For instance, letting your elderly neighbor fetch his newspaper might be healthy. He’ll exercise and socialize on the way. At the same time, he’ll realize he is capable.

Also, look at how caring too much for others influences your close relationships. Vow to nurture your special relationships and take care of yourself.

You might also ask a close friend or family member for their perspective and have them suggest ways to change

Consider how you might be stuck in a loop of too much caring and why. Next, take control of your well-being and slow down. Stop taking too much responsibility for others and do for yourself.

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DO HAPPY PEOPLE LIVE DIFFERENTLY?

Happiness is something you create, not receive.

WRITER: APRIL ARAGAM

Happiness can’t be given to you by someone else, and you can’t buy it. Happiness is something you create for yourself. Here are six ways that happy people live differently:

1. Happy people are grateful Happy people are grateful for what they have now. They are happy for the small things as much as the big things. They realize everything is a blessing. It’s easy to take for granted the things you have every day—water, food, and electronics. If you are without them for a day, you feel the loss greatly. Don’t wait until you’re

missing something to realize how lucky you are. Incorporate gratefulness into your goals for a better life. If you live in a trailer but dream of a nice home, be grateful for the roof over your head.

2. Happy people focus on the positive Happy people don’t ignore or pretend that bad things don’t happen in life, but they aren’t controlled by them. They find the good in every situation. They are optimistic about life and the future, and they refuse to let other people’s negativity bring them down. Surround yourself with people who are positive and happy. Spending time

with toxic people only makes you focus on the negative. People can be toxic and that negativity should be avoided, if possible.

3. Happy people aren’t afraid to dream Happy people chase their goals and dreams. They believe nothing is out of reach and are willing to overcome anything in order to succeed. They don’t let setbacks stop them. If you deny yourself your dreams in life, you may be denying your happiness. It may not be easy to achieve what you want, but it will be worth it. If your dream is to eventually quit your job and work for yourself, begin working toward that goal.

Achieving your dream will make you happy, but the journey to get there will feel good, too.

4. Happy people don’t compare themselves to others

Happy people know comparing themselves to others is a waste of time, because people do things in their own time. If you’re upset every time someone you know gets married and you’re not married yet, you’re feeding your unhappiness. Just because someone does something before you doesn’t mean they are happier or more successful. Everyone’s life unfolds at its own pace. Happy people are content living in the moment. Don’t compare your life to

others; live on your own terms. Be happy with your decisions and don’t worry about what other people do.

5. Happy people don’t look for approval from others

Happy people are confident and secure in themselves. They don’t need other people to tell them they’re attractive, smart, or talented.

Happy people don’t fish for compliments; they are aware of their positive qualities and what they bring to the table. Little things like someone not liking you should not affect your life and well being.

Work on your self-confidence, not making their opinion of you better.

6. Happy people express their feelings

Happy people are open with their feelings. They aren’t afraid to say, “I love you.” They know these feelings may not always be returned, but they still are eager to share them. Happy people also express admiration for others and point out positive qualities others possess. They feel good about expressing their emotions. Don’t bottle your feelings inside. Share them. You’ll feel good by making others feel good.

Happiness isn’t something you get from someone else. You create the happiness in your life. It is a gift you give to yourself.

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With financial planning tools and discretionary portfolio management, we build plans based on our client’s risk tolerance. As portfolio managers, we manage our clients’ portfolios on a daily basis and guide their objectives, which range from developing a health care strategy to attending to estate planning needs.

How do you help your clients achieve their objectives?

Focusing our attention on our clients’ financial details means working toward their goal of living the lifestyle they have always envisioned. Having the resources in place to enjoy the next stage of their lives is important in achieving those goals. Perhaps they want to master a new language or travel to see family. Moving financial worry away from the front of their minds can put big concerns to rest.

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(RELATIVELY) PAINLESS WAYS TO BOOST YOUR SAVINGS

Saving money doesn’t mean suffering.

WRITER: B.E. CONRAD

Arecent report revealed that more than 60 percent of Americans could not cover an unexpected $1,000 expense without borrowing money from friends or going into debt. While financial experts were shocked by this statistic, the men and women struggling to make ends meet were far less surprised.

They know how hard it is to save money and how quickly the weekly paycheck evaporates. They also know how important it is to save money and cut expenses, and getting started is often the hardest part. If you want to save money and beef up your emergency fund, now is the time to get started. Here are five relatively painless ways to start saving money today.

BANK YOUR RAISES

The next time your boss gives you a raise, bank part of that extra cash. Instead of ramping up your spending to meet your new income level, continue to live as you have been and put the extra money aside.

You do not have to deprive yourself entirely to boost your savings. After all, you worked hard for that raise, and you deserve the money. Feel free to splurge, but save part of the money as well.

FREELANCE FOR EXTRA CASH

Bringing in extra income is a great way to beef up your savings, but what if you do not have time for a part-time job, or the inclination to work all those hours? If you want to bring in some extra money without being tied to a set schedule, consider freelancing.

No matter what your skill set, chances are there are ways to turn it into cash. If you work full-time as a programmer, take on a few side projects in your down time. If you are a great driver, sign up for a ride-sharing service and bring in some extra cash. When you put all of that extra income in the bank, it will surprise you how fast your emergency fund coffers grow.

1 2 3 4

PAY YOURSELF FIRST

Whether it is $1, $5, $10, or a percentage of your weekly salary, paying yourself first is a great way to get a jumpstart on savings. Just set the designated amount aside and have it sent directly to a savings or money market account.

If your employer offers direct deposit, simply split your paycheck between the two accounts. If not, it is easy to set up a recurring transfer from your checking to your savings account.

SAVE PART OF YOUR TAX REFUND

The yearly tax return is the largest single chunk of cash many people see, but all too many of those taxpayers waste that money. While there is nothing wrong with a yearly splurge courtesy of the U.S. government, there are much better ways to spend that tax refund.

If you want to beef up your emergency fund and jump-start your savings, bank half of your tax refund this year and use the remaining 50 percent for fun or a project.

5

TRIM YOUR FIXED MONTHLY EXPENSES

Finding new sources of income helps build your savings, but so will cutting spending. Start by reviewing fixed monthly expenses, things like your cable or pay-TV bill, your phone bill, and so on.

Chances are there are features you no longer need, cheaper alternatives to the package you have now, or other ways to save. This simple step could save as much $100 a month that goes straight to the emergency fund.

It is not easy to save money, but having a solid emergency fund is very important. If your emergency savings are looking a bit anemic, it is time to get serious and get going. These five tips can help you get started, but the rest is up to you.

CREATIVE WAYS TO GET RID OF DEBT

Debt doesn’t have to be a heavy weight you carry always.

Personal debt is the painful outcome of spending money you don’t have, losing a job, or not keeping a budget you can manage. Whether the debt is from mounting credit card charges, student loans, or not paying bills on time, it attaches itself to you like a leech and won’t go away until you do something about it. When you come to the realization that you need to tackle your debt and pay it off, take a breath and believe there are several creative ways to achieve a debt-free future.

SELLING THINGS AND FREELANCE WORK

You do not necessarily need to go out and get a second job to unburden yourself from debt. Add up the amount of money you need to pay off your bills and find other ways to get the money you need. Dig through your closets and sell unwanted items online or through consignment shops. Do work online to earn money. Sign up for some market research surveys and watch as the dollars begin to roll in. This money can be held in a PayPal account and be used to wipe your debt slate clean.

COUPON SAVINGS

BUY A PIGGY BANK

You may have first learned to save money as a kid with a beloved piggy bank, and this seemingly archaic money-saving device can help you get out of debt in no time. When you shop, pay cash, and throw all your change and dollar bills in the piggy bank. You’ll be amazed how quickly this amount will grow to let you pay off a bill or two.

SELL YOUR PLAN

Call debt collectors and let them know you are willing to pay off your debt if they agree to a lesser paid-in-full amount. Often you can save hundreds of dollars and lose the debt at once. However, be sure you have their agreement in writing and that they will remove the negative information from your credit report before you send a check.

CHIP-AWAY METHOD

If you have a bill you simply can’t afford to pay all at once, chip away at the debt until it is paid in full. This method works especially with fixed bills you can pay online. Commit to a certain amount of money toward the bill each week and gradually bring the balance down. This method brings an incredible sense of accomplishment once the bill is paid.

Finding coupons is a great way to save money on things you purchase, but once you get through the checkout line, what do you do with the money you saved? Instead of spending your coupon savings on other purchases, designate the money to pay off debt. You can either go online and make a small payment toward bills or collect enough money in an envelope to make that final payment.

Pulling yourself out of the debt trap doesn’t happen overnight but can be achieved rapidly when you put your mind to it. Use these creative methods to collect the money you need and be on the road to better financial well-being.

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LET KIDS DISCOVER THE GREAT OUTDOORS

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

“Let’s go outside and play.”

That was our mantra as children growing up in the 1980s. We’d catch crawdads and tadpoles at the creek, ride our bicycles to the local convenience store, engage in a fun game of kickball, or build indestructible forts that served as our home away from home.

Although we did not realize it then, outdoor playtime among our peers taught us valuable life lessons. We learned to socialize. We learned to compromise. We learned to use

outside without mom and dad hovering over them and protecting them from everything under the sun. It has gotten so bad, in fact, that parents who do allow their children to play outdoors unsupervised risk being interrogated or facing criminal charges.

• In Texas, a stay-at-home mom was arrested for child endangerment because she allowed her children—ages 9 and 6—to ride a motorized scooter in their neighborhood. A neighbor reported to police that the children were unsupervised.

• In Florida, a 34-year-old mom was arrested because she allowed her son, 7, to walk to a nearby park alone.

which, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, include improved physical fitness and mental health, as well as social and intellectual development.

Parents should be able to invest small but growing amounts of trust to let their children play outdoors and become independent. Some might not be ready to be trusted outside alone. Of course, that’s for parents to decide, not governmental agencies.

And let’s please get a grip on our faulty perception of this “dangerous” world. First, today’s children have more safety nets than previous generations. They can use GPS in case they get lost or call on a cell phone should any trouble arise. Secondly, they’re venturing into a much safer world than the one we did.

our imagination. We discovered new ways of doing things. Most importantly, we did not have to endure pesky parents supervising our every move. This helped us develop a strong sense of independence.

Fast-forward 30 years. Stroll down any neighborhood in America and you’ll notice something curiously missing. You won’t see kids playing football in an empty field, racing their bicycles down the street, or even chasing each other in a simple game of tag.

Somehow, a paranoid culture arose where society deemed it unsafe for children to be

• In Maryland, Montgomery County police and Children’s Protective Services investigated a couple who allowed their daughters, ages 10 and 6, to play at a nearby park unattended.

The lesson learned? Allowing children to play outside is infinitely more dangerous for parents because they may end up wearing an orange jumpsuit inside the county jail. It’s much easier to keep their children inside because it results in fewer hassles and fewer arrests. That’s where the real crime occurs, because children miss out on the benefits of outdoor play,

According to FBI data, the number of missing child reports has decreased by 40 percent since 1997. In addition, violent crime has decreased 51 percent since 1991.

Riding bicycles and playing kickball with the neighborhood kids are rites of passage for children. They may endure a few cuts and bruises, but that’s more than negated by the valuable social skills and life skills that can only be learned from being unsupervised as a child.

Give children freedom to explore the beautiful world around them. By doing so, you’re not endangering your kids. You’re empowering them.

Sources: huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/20/tammy-cooper-texas-mom-arrested-kids-unsupervised-video_n_1900113.html, www.cnn.com/2014/07/31/living/florida-mom-arrested-son-park/, www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/04/13/parents-investigated-letting-children-walk-alone/25700823/

Children miss out on the benefits of outdoor play, which, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, include improved physical fitness and mental health, as well as social and intellectual development.

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