PLANTING SEEDS TO A HEALTHIER LIFE

In a December 11th press release, the Project for Natural Health Choices says consuming thirty grams of flaxseed each day can reduce risk of heart attack and stroke. Research was conducted at the University Hospital Holguin, where subjects who were diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease and hypertension were given thirty grams of flaxseed in different food sources.

After six months, researchers found this group had their blood pressures reduced by an average of ten points systolic pressure and seven points diastolic. The research team calculated these drops could translate into a reduction of about fifty percent in cases of stroke and thirty percent reduction in rates of heart attack. The results were presented at the 2012 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions last November.

Flaxseed can be found in foods like flaxseed-coated bagels, buns, and muffins. It can also be purchased and added to virtually any food. ■

Neuropathy support

Peripheral neuropathy results from damaged peripheral nerves. The disease can cause weakness, pain, and loss of coordination and feeling in the arms and legs. The disorder varies in severity, but in some cases, it can be debilitating, crippling, or even fatal. Many times, patients who suffer from this disease may feel alone and without a place to turn for help.

Fortunately, Mount Dora-based Waterman Village is now home to the Peripheral Neuropathy Support Group, which held its first meeting in December. The support group is open to all who suffer from peripheral neuropathy, their family members and friends, and anyone interested in learning more about this complex disease.

For more information, please contact Jack Koehler at 352.735.2077. ■

Continued excellence in healing

The Leesburg Regional Acute Rehabilitation Hospital has achieved certification from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) through 2015. This marks the sixth consecutive time the inpatient adult rehab program has been awarded CARF certification.

“The accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation and shows the Leesburg Regional Acute Rehabilitation Hospital’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards,” says Stella Mason, director of the hospital. “Our community should be proud of the fact our therapists, nurses, and the entire interdisciplinary rehabilitation team place the patient at the center of the recovery process.”

The Leesburg Regional Acute Rehabilitation Hospital has provided comprehensive care in the community for more than twenty years. ■

The gift of education

The Lake-Sumter State College Foundation awarded 191 scholarships totaling $150,850 to students attending the college during the spring semester. Scholarships were awarded to students pursuing degrees in nursing, criminology, public relations, business administration, education, pre-engineering, and computer technology.

“We are able to assist so many students in achieving their dream of a college education because of the generous donations we receive from the community. It is really exciting to be able to provide financial support for our students and faculty and staff through scholarships and projects,” says Rosanne Brandeburg, executive director of the foundation. ■