August 2016 - SWGA Health Beat

AUGUST 2016 #1 Health Magazine in Southwest Georgia

Navigate Senior

Driving Concerns Breaking the Weight Loss Cycle Spotlight on Breastfeeding

Look Inside for Dr. Oz!

Gym-free Fitness Ideas

From the Desk of the President

Erin Cannington, M.D. Allergy and Asthma Clinics of Georgia

El-Roy Dixon, M.D. Dixon Eye Care

Dr. Hans Chang Albany Diagnostics

James Palazzolo, M.D. Sleep Apnea Centers of America

Keisha Callins, M.D. Albany Area Primary Health Care

Kelly Miller, FNP-BC Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center

TIFTON ALBANY AMERICUS BAINBRIDGE SYLVESTER THOMASVILLE VALDOSTA CORDELE MOULTRIE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Features 3

Navigate Senior Driving Concerns

8

Breaking the Weight Loss Cycle

10

Overactive Bladder

14

Eggs Essential to Top Three Healthy Diets

17

Making an Impact/Ask Dr.K

20

Spotlight on: Breastfeeding Your Baby

22

Gym-free Fitness Ideas

EVENT CALENDAR Email upcoming events to: swgahealthbeat@gmail.com

Each Wednesday Free Lung Cancer Screenings 8:00 am - 11:00 am Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center 919 S Broad St, Thomasville Our providers will offer free, low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer.

Screenings are available to individuals ages 55–74 who are current smokers or who have quit smoking within the last 15 years. *Screenings by appointment only. Please call 229.584.5454 to schedule your appointment today.

August 9 Breastfeeding Class 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm OB Classroom - 2nd Floor This class everything you need to know about breastfeeding including preparation, instruction and helpful tips. The class is held from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Registration is required. Please call 229-353-7605 or register below. Please include number of guests in the required field.

Free of Charge (229) 353-7605 August 9 Stroke and Head Injury Support Group 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pearlman Cancer Center Conference Room, 209 Pendleton Drive, Valdosta, GA

August 2016

You are not alone.

Join us for a time of fellowship and refreshments with others who understand what you are going through. Recieve education from experienced professionals.

For more information, please call 229-2594292.

August 13 Free Childbirth Eduction Class 9:00 am - 3:00 pm What to Expect Before and After Delivery Labor and delivery unit tour • Signs of labor Relaxation and breathing techniques Epidural and pain management • Birth plans Postpartum and newborn care Breastfeeding education Instructors are certified by the Academy of Childbirth Educators.

The childbirth class is offered free of charge. Please pre-register for this class.

Lunch is provided.

Archbold East Tower Auditorium A&B (229) 228-2808 dmcook@archbold.org August 15 Life with Diabetes Support Group SGMC Diabetes Management Center, 3018 North Patterson Street Join us for a time of learning about life with diabetes. This support group is open to the public.

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For more information, please call 229-4337200.

August 20 Prepared Childbirth 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Meeting Room 3 (first floor at Tift Regional Medical Center) The Prepared Childbirth Classes will cover general topics relating to labor, delivery, and basic care of your baby. We do suggest that you bring a partner with you for class.

Free of charge. Registration required.

(229) 353-7605

Recurring Events Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Diabetes Support Group Third Tuesday each month | 3 pm at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center cafeteria private dining room Chair Yoga Sowega Council On Aging Wednesdays | 11 - 11:45 am at Senior Life Enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+ Line Dancing Sowega Council On Aging Mondays | 11 am Advanced, Wednesdays | 3 pm at Senior Life enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+

4 Ways to Help Families Navigate Senior Driving Concerns Senior care professionals can be an objective voice when families are disagreeing about an older loved one’s driving future.

Surveyed North American seniors, age 70 and older, are heavily dependent upon having a car and driving, according to research conducted by Home Instead, Inc., franchisor of the Home Instead Senior Care® network.

Nearly half of these seniors are at least somewhat concerned about losing their driving ability, according to the research.

“An occupational therapist can be a great referral source to help take some of the emotion out of potentially volatile situations,” said Elin Schold Davis, Project Coordinator, Older Driver Initiative, American Occupational Therapy Association.

Following are some ways that these occupational therapy practitioners or other senior care professionals can help: Encourage families to get the facts first and decide the best course of action. Taking away the car keys should be the last choice. An evaluation from an occupational therapist can provide an objective thirdparty voice. Occupational therapists are often called in by physicians to evaluate driving competence after a medical event such as a fall,

amputation, or paralysis after a stroke. However, one can be contacted any time a family has concerns.

Recommend the CarFit program. CarFit is an educational program created by the American Society on Aging and developed in collaboration with the American Automobile Association (AAA), AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association. The program is designed to help older drivers find out how well they currently fit their personal vehicle, to highlight actions they can take to improve their fit, and to promote conversations about driver safety and community mobility.

A proper fit in one’s personal vehicle can greatly increase not only the driver’s safety but also the safety of others.

Four quick examples from the CarFit program underscore the importance of road safety to the CarFit program, which reviews 12 key areas of the driver’s fit to his or her personal vehicle.

• Knowing how to properly adjust one’s mirrors can help to greatly minimize blind spots for drivers who may wish to change lanes.

• Good foot positioning on the gas and brake pedals is important. If the driver is reaching with his or her toes to press on the pedals, it can cause fatigue in one’s leg and slowed reaction times.

• Drivers run a risk of serious injury if they are sitting closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel.

• Seat belt usage is among the most important habits for older Jack Hartley is the owner of adults to practice. If a JWH Service Partners, Inc. d.b.a. senior is hesitant to wear Home Instead Senior Care #585. a seat belt because of Home Instead Senior Care discomfort at the neck or provides seniors with the fact it is too hard to Companionship, Light reach, you can explore Housekeeping, Medication solutions at CarFit and Reminders, Meal Preparation, discuss concerns with an Errands, Doctor Visits and more. occupational therapist.

For information go to Discuss conversation www.homeinstead.com/585. starters and strategies for a talk with an older adult. Think about giving up a lifelong habit and what that could mean in your life. The self-esteem of older adults who no longer drive can suffer.

Remind your aging loved one that he or she did not lose the ability to drive because someone, like a physician, arbitrarily “took it away.” It was comprehensive plan of the changes experienced from alternatives to help give a his or her disease or condition senior the confidence that he of aging that made it no longer or she can still face life with independence. safe to drive.

For more resources about Encourage families to put navigating driving issues to a plan in place before taking away the car keys. Unless an share with seniors and their families, visit the Let’s Talk older adult poses an about Driving℠ program page. immediate danger to him- or Each Home Instead Senior herself or another driver, Care® franchise office is families shouldn’t encourage independently owned and an older adult to give up operated. driving without presenting a

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Turn Down At The Table: Tips for Feeding Your Family Enlightenment Since women are often the primary caregivers, they have the most potential to make a significant impact in improving the health and nutrition of their family. Try your best to be selective about the food options that you make available at home, and make time to teach your family how to make better food choices. Poor eating habits can increase your chance of obesity, which may increase your chance of developing other diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. These diseases can develop at any age; require the use of costly medications; and can have an impact on how well you are able to enjoy life.

Education Your CHOICES make a difference for you, and more importantly, for the children watching you: C - eat like a child – eat only when you are hungry; stop eating when your are full.

H - hold back – you don’t have to eat everything on your plate. Consider sharing meals.

O - be brave enough to omit some things – fast foods, processed foods, fried foods, sweet foods.

I - inspect your food labels – look at ingredients; look at the sodium/sugar/fiber content… is it worth eating?

E - set an example – If your child does not see you grab a banana, they won’t grab a banana.

S - watch portion sizes – eat smaller portions of starchy foods like pasta/rice/bread/potatoes); eat larger portions of healthy foods like beans/nuts/fruits/vegetables.

Empowerment Don’t get it twisted: you control your plate; don’t let your plate control you. Don’t waste your money on foods that are not helpful to your body. Make water the drink of choice both inside and outside of the home.

Encouragement When you make healthy choices – you become the example for what you want your family to do.

Quote Of The Month: “If you have only one smile today in you, give it to the people you love.

Don’t be grumpy at home, then go out in the street and start grinning “Good Morning” at total strangers” ~ Maya Angelou ~

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Zika virus disease in the United States, 2015–2016 COURTESY OF CDC.GOV

As of July 13, 2016 (5 am EST) • Zika virus disease and Zika virus congenital infection are nationally notifiable conditions.

• This update from the CDC Arboviral Disease Branch includes provisional data reported to ArboNET for January 01, 2015 – July 13, 2016.

US States • Locally acquired mosquito-borne cases reported: 0 • Travel-associated cases reported: 1,305 • Laboratory acquired cases reported: 1 • Total: 1,306 -Sexually transmitted: 14 -Guillain-Barré syndrome: 5

US Territories • Locally acquired cases reported: 2,905 • Travel-associated cases reported: 11 • Total: 2,916* -Guillain-Barré syndrome: 12 *Sexually transmitted cases are not reported for areas with local mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus because it is not possible to determine whether infection occurred due to mosquito-borne or sexual transmission.

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8 r ousing r easons to put a hearing t e st at t h e to p o f yo u r 'd o n e ' l i s t

(BPT) - Of all the life hacks for better living, taking care of your hearing is among the smartest - and it yields an incredible ROI. In short, getting a hearing test is worth it.

No matter what your age, untreated hearing loss can take its toll. The catch is, hearing loss is stealthy. It's usually hard to notice at first.

In fact, it tends to come on so gradually that it tricks you into oblivion. Then it robs you of more than you realize, sooner than you realize.

From pilfering away at your relationships and quality of life, to putting you at risk for other health conditions, untreated hearing loss is a silent thief. And don't think for a minute that you're too young to think about hearing loss - you're not.

It's a noisy world. You're part of it. And the numbers show that hearing loss is becoming more common among younger adults - in their 20s and 30s. So make sure you value your hearing.

It's a treasure worth keeping.

To give you an extra push, here are eight reasons why you should get a hearing test today.

1. It may help your pocketbook. Research shows that middle-aged

people with hearing loss have about a third more in health care payments than those without hearing loss. A study by the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) shows that using hearing aids reduces the risk of income loss by 90 to 100 percent for those with milder hearing loss, and from 65 to 77 percent for those with severe to moderate hearing loss. People with untreated hearing loss lost as much as $30,000 in income annually, the study found.

2. Your mind may benefit.

Research shows a link between hearing loss and dementia, leading experts to believe that interventions, like hearing aids, could potentially delay or prevent dementia.

Certainly, notable researchers believe that addressing hearing loss may at least help protect cognitive function.

3. It could boost your job performance. Most hearing aid users in the workforce say it has helped their performance on the job.

That's right. Getting a hearing test could benefit all those employees (a whopping 30 percent) who suspect they have hearing loss but haven't sought treatment.

4. Life's challenges may

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not seem so intimidating.

Research shows people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are more likely to tackle problems actively. Apparently, hearing your best brings greater confidence.

5. Your zest for life might get zestier. Most people who use hearing aids say it has a positive effect on their relationships. They're more likely to have a strong social network, be optimistic, feel engaged in life, and even get more pleasure in doing things.

6. It could protect you against the blues. Hearing loss is linked to a greater risk of depression in adults, especially 18 to 69-year-olds.

But studies also show that treating hearing loss can boost quality of life. BHI research shows that people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are less likely to feel down, depressed or hopeless.

7. You'll probably be more likely to get the drift. Most people who use hearing aids say it helps their overall ability to communicate effectively in most situations.

The majority who bought their hearing aids within the past five years say they're pleased

with their ability to hear in the workplace, at home with family members, in conversations in small and large groups, when watching TV with others, in lecture halls, theaters or concert halls, when riding in a car, and even when trying to follow conversations in the presence of noise.

8. Your heart and health may benefit.

Cardiovascular and hearing health are linked. Some experts say the inner ear is so sensitive to blood flow that it's possible that abnormalities in the cardiovascular system could be noted here earlier than in other less sensitive parts of the body. But it isn't just about your heart. Hearing loss may signal or exacerbate other health conditions as well, including depression, sleep apnea, cognitive decline, and the risk of falling and hospitalization.

So do it for your health. Do it for your happiness. Get a hearing test.

To take a free, quick, and confidential online hearing check to help determine if you need a comprehensive hearing test by a hearing health care professional, visit www.BetterHearing.org.

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(BPT) - Many Americans are living with excess weight and obesity, meaning they have a higher-thannormal body weight for their height. With more than a third of the U.S. adult population affected by obesity, the marketplace is saturated with "quick-fix" weightloss tips and unhealthy and unsustainable diets.

Indeed, at the beginning of every year, favorite snacks are left out of the grocery cart, gym memberships soar and healthy-cooking programs earn a second look as losing weight tops New Year's resolution lists.

Yet for all the good intentions, weight loss is no easy task, and for some, it is an ongoing struggle. Why? In reality, obesity is a complex chronic disease that changes how the body uses food and the energy it produces, preventing some people from maintaining the weight loss they achieve.

The result is a lifetime of ups and downs, as well as emotional, psychological, physical and health implications.

The Weight-Loss Cycle According to a recent U.S. ethnographic study conducted by Novo Nordisk, many people affected by obesity often experience a cycle of weight loss and weight gain. The phases of this cycle include: 1. Defining Moment: Feeling energized and motivated. I'm ready to do something about my weight.

2. Consideration: Feeling hopeful and determined. I have many options. I will choose the one that will help me get to the goal I have set for myself.

3. Momentum: Feeling confident and excited. I'm seeing a difference in my weight, and so can others. I can do this.

4. Plateau: It's getting harder. It's easy to get off track. I'm not losing weight anymore. Life is getting in the way. Note: Missteps often occur here. It becomes challenging to maintain my plan. I'm becoming frustrated and anxious.

5. Collapse: I'm tired of this. I can't keep this up, so I'm not going to.

I'm actually relieved that the pressure is off of me.

6. Fatigue: Feeling exhausted and sad. I don't even want to think about my weight right now.

According to the study, individuals commonly repeat this cycle frequently throughout their lifetime. Each time, they return to the Defining Moment, such as trying to find clothes that fit properly for a special event, or struggling to fit on a bus or plane seat, motivated again to restart the process with hope renewed. Along the way, many rely on family, friends or even the media for inspiration and support, often focusing on immediate, rapid weight-loss solutions rather than behavioral changes that can influence choices over the long term.

"The cycle of weight is often extremely frustrating for individuals affected by the disease of obesity. For far too long, individuals have been met with the 'eat less and move more' response, which simply does not work. We know more about the science of obesity today than ever before, and we need to utilize this knowledge to help individuals effectively manage their weight and improve their health through safe and effective treatment options," says Joe Nadglowski, Obesity Action Coalition president and CEO. As the medical community continues to evolve in its understanding of obesity, many healthcare professionals (HCPs)

are prioritizing open dialogues with their patients about the value of a comprehensive weight-management approach. It is this collaboration, many physicians believe, that can play a vital role in helping patients break the cycle and shift the focus from exclusively weight loss to a more long-term view of health and weight maintenance.

"Obesity is a complex, chronic and multifaceted disease that is best managed through a partnership between patients and their healthcare providers"

health professionals, among others, individuals can receive tailored, comprehensive support based on their changing weight-loss needs. Over time, this can result in long-lasting behavior change, which helps break the weightloss cycle. Plans that include the necessary tools to help patients build skills for long-term behavior change stand to provide the most value.

Small Changes Make a Big Difference While the motivation to lose weight often comes

“... many patients have unrealistic ideas as to how much weight they have to lose to achieve any level of success.” says Dr. Scott Kahan, MD, MPH, director of the National Center for Weight and Wellness.

"Addressing weight is not easy, but finding a support network, which may include a doctor, nurse, registered dietician, mental health provider, or others, can provide resources that help with short- and long-term weight management. Patients are more likely to achieve progress when, in collaboration with their healthcare network, they have opportunities to discuss treatment options, establish plans, monitor results and evaluate responses to the plan."

Specifically, treatment plans that are customized to patients' personal considerations, realistic goals and changing needs over time have the best chance of success. By consulting a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals, including physicians, registered dieticians and mental

from the desire to have more energy, reduced pain, better health or to take part in certain activities, many patients have unrealistic ideas as to how much weight they have to lose to achieve any level of success.

Fortunately, even small improvements in weight loss can significantly impact overall health and wellness. Many studies indicate that a 5% to 10% reduction in weight may lower health risks related to obesity, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, bad cholesterol, hypertension and sleep apnea.

If you need help in losing or maintaining your weight, consider professional consultation. What once worked may no longer work, so it's important to talk to your provider if the pounds are not coming off or are coming back on.

References: Ogden CL, Carroll MD, Fryar CD, Flegal KM. Prevalence of obesity among adults and youth:

United States, 2011–2014.

NCHS data brief, no 219.

Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2015.

World Health Organization.

BMI classification. http://apps.who.int/bmi/index.jsp ?introPage=intro_3.html.

Updated January 2015.

Accessed December 1, 2015.

Obesity Education Initiative; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National Institutes of Health; US Department of Health and Human Services.

Identification, evaluation, and treatment of overweight and obesity in adults: The practical guide. Bethesda, MD: National Institutes of Health; 2000. NIH publication 00-4084.

Sumithran P, Prendergast LA, Delbridge E, et al. Long-term persistence of hormonal adaptations to weight loss.

NEJM. 2011;365(17):1597-1604.

Rosenbaum M, Kissileff HR, Mayer LE, et al. Energy intake in weight-reduced humans. Brain Res. 2010;1350:95-102.

Rosenbaum M, Leibel RL. Adaptive thermogenesis in humans. Int J Obes.

2010;34:S47-S55.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adult Obesity Causes & Consequences. http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/adult/ causes/index.html. Accessed January 21, 2016.

Ethnographic Weight-Loss Patient Journey Study. Novo Nordisk Inc. Custom Research Study. January 2015.

Loureiro ML, Nayga RM Jr. Obesity, weight loss, and physician’s advice. Soc Sci Med. 2006;62(10):2458-2468.

Jensen MD, Ryan DH, Apovian CM, et al. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines; Obesity Society. 2013 AHA/ACC/TOS guideline for the management of overweight and obesity in adults: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and The Obesity Society. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2014;63(25ptB):29853023.

Weight-control Information Network. Do you know some of the health risks of being overweight? US Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

NIH Publication No. 07-4089.

November 2004. Updated December 2012. http://www.niddk.nih.gov/healthinformation/health-topics/weightcontrol/health_risks_being_over weight/Documents/hlthrisks1104. pdf. Accessed December 8, 2015.

Wing R, Lang W, Wadden T, et al. Benefits of modest weight loss in improving cardiovascular risk factors in overweight and obese individuals with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care.

2011;(34)7:1481-1486.

Tuomilehto J, Gylling H, Peltonen M, et al. Sustained improvement in mild obstructive sleep apnea after a diet- and physical activity-based lifestyle intervention: postinterventional follow-up. Am J Clin Nutr.

2010;92:688-96.

Foster G, Borradaile K, Sanders M, et al. A randomized study on the effect of weight loss on obstructive sleep apnea among obese patients with type 2 diabetes: The Sleep AHEAD Study. Arch Intern Med. 2009(17):1619-1626.

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New tool promises to bridge communication gap for overactive bladder (BPT) - Sixty is a milestone for Carolyn Hampton and she's not shy about sharing her age because it's a tribute to how she's lived. She's more active than ever; she loves to dance and has even taken up tennis and running. None of this would have been possible a few years back because of her constant worry and concern about having an accident. Hampton's in charge now, but for years her bladder ran the show.

Hampton is not alone - 37 million people in the United States suffer from overactive bladder (OAB) - it's more common than diabetes or asthma. OAB is an ongoing condition that may include having to go to the bathroom frequently, having to use the bathroom urgently and leaking urine. While not life threatening, OAB can negatively affect social activities, exercise and sleep.

After years of not getting full relief with medications and suffering with the side effects, Hampton was unable to function because she woke every 45 minutes to use the bathroom. "My quality of life was terrible, but I'm a fighter and a two-time cancer survivor, so I wasn't going to let my bladder limit me," Hampton says. "I finally said, 'Enough,' and asked my primary care doctor what else she had for me and was sent to a urologist."

"Your quality of life is so much better when the bathroom doesn't have to be your number one priority. It's so freeing.

People shouldn't be afraid to talk about their symptoms or ask for a referral if they aren't finding relief. It's critical to advocate for yourself," Hampton says.

OAB is thought to be caused by miscommunication between the bladder and brain. Hampton was ultimately prescribed an advanced therapy that worked for her by helping to address this miscommunication.

Similar to the breakdown in communication between the brain and bladder; there is often a communication gap between people dealing with OAB and physicians about its impact.

Many suffers aren't comfortable bringing it up and physicians don't often ask about bladder health.

To bridge this gap, the

National Association For Continence (NAFC) launched a new tool help people get a clear idea of their symptoms and the impact so they can better communicate these concerns to their doctor. It also can help people find a local incontinence expert who can work to restore their bladder function.

"There are many effective OAB treatments, yet the majority of those suffering are untreated. Our goal is to help people discover the right option for them, but the first step is communication," says Steven Gregg, Ph.D., executive director of the NAFC. "The better your health care provider understands the impact of your symptoms, the better they can help find an effective treatment."

Only one in eight Americans who have experienced loss of bladder control have been diagnosed and less than 33

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percent of people with incontinence and OAB symptoms seek treatment.

Many sufferers revolve their lives around their bladder, but often don't realize how much they are doing to cope mapping bathrooms, refraining from drinking, wearing dark clothing and avoiding socializing.

In a recent NAFC survey of 356 people experiencing bladder control issues, 66 percent of respondents said their urination issues affected their sleep. More than 50 percent also reported a loss of confidence. The survey results also showed bladder control issues had a serious impact on other important areas including travel, intimacy, and ability to be active.

Among women who have not discussed OAB with a physician, embarrassment was a top reason cited, in addition

to fear of being told it's a natural part of aging and thinking nothing can be done.

While many advanced therapies are available, less than five percent of respondents have ever heard of them. It's critical that patients find an incontinence expert to help find the right solution for them.

"I'm thrilled that my doctor listened to me and helped me find an effective solution. It took courage to open up about what has been a 'hush-hush' issue, but the freedom it gave me means so much to me," says Hampton.

Visit www.everydayfreedom.com/naf c to take the bladder control quiz, learn how to talk to your health care provider and find an incontinence expert in your area.

Help teens get more sleep; better dieting (and dining) with bugs Q: On school days, the bus picks up my 15-year-old at 6:30 a.m., and with afterschool activities and homework, he's sometimes up until midnight. Then, on the weekends he sleeps until noon. What can I do to get him on a better schedule? -Corrine C., Hot Springs, Arkansas

What athletes should know about shin splints COURTESY OF METROCONNECTION

Exercising more is a primary goal for many people, especially those interested in losing weight. Athletes also look to increase the time they spend exercising as new seasons draw near. While additional exercise can benefit many people, those who frequently perform weightbearing exercises or repetitive motions, such as running, dancing and jumping, may find themselves battling shin splints.

Also known as tibial stress syndrome, shin splints are a condition marked by pain in the shinbone, also known as the tibia. Shin splints are common among athletes and dancers who spend so much of their time on their feet. The Mayo Clinic says shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone. Shin splints typically appear when there is a sudden increase in distance or intensity of a workout schedule.

Shin splints are characterized by tenderness, swelling, soreness, and/or pain along the inner part of the lower leg. While the pain may stop when the body stops exercising, eventually that pain can transform into continuous pain.

Many cases of shin splints can be alleviated through rest, icing and other self-care methods.

Wearing proper footwear and modifying exercise routines can help ensure that shin splints are not a recurring problem.

Should shin splints not clear up on their own, or if over-the-counter pain relievers prove ineffective at managing pain, then athletes should contact their physicians. Doctors will likely try to determine if the pain is caused by something other than shin splints.

A: Sleep and teenagers -they can be as hard to get together as oil and water! Many kids' bus rides are super early, like your son's, and schools start too early. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that teens' natural sleep cycle makes it difficult for them to fall asleep before 11 p.m., so too early a start assures that students will be sleep-deprived and that their learning handicapped. That's why the AAP recommends schools start at 8:30 or later. Let your school board know about the AAP recommendations (at www.aap.org), and see if you can begin a campaign for change.

But that's not the only way you can help your son establish a healthier sleep schedule.

First, let him know you've got science on your side. Recent American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommendations says 13- to 18-year-olds need 8-10 hours nightly! Here's why.

Lack of sleep not only makes it harder to learn and retain information, but it triggers all kinds of other problems: moodiness and frustration; risktaking, such as drinking and driving fast; slower reaction time; and drowsy driving.

Then, look at your son's homework load and afterschool activities. Together explore ways (study hall?) he can get homework done more efficiently. Help him to prioritize after-school activities to see what might be eliminated or reduced.

TV? Out of his bedroom!

(Around 62 percent of kids have one.) It's associated with less sleep, unhealthy weight gain and poorer academic performance!

Also ask him nicely to leave his phone out of the bedroom at night. Late-at-night social engagement is overstimulating, plus blue wavelength light from screens disrupts his sleep cycle!

Q: I just heard that eating insects is actually good for you. Yuck! I thought they were a food of last resort, like if you are starving, right? -Dick B., Lafayette, Indiana A: Well, sometimes it can be a food of last resort; during the Khmer Rouge period, many Cambodians survived by eating wild tarantulas, minus fangs and poisonous sacks. Today in that country fried tarantulas are a delicacy, and they're becoming scarce.

In addition to tarantulas, many insects, such as worms, grasshoppers and crickets, are packed with protein and void of saturated fat. In fact, 80 percent of the world's population includes insects in their diet, while here in the U.S. entomophagy (eating insects) is becoming very hip. You even can find renowned chefs who have proudly put insect dishes on their restaurant menus and online!

Chef Aaron Sanchez toasts up grasshoppers (in Mexico they're known as chapulines) and mixes them with chili and lime in his guacamole. Sample them at his New Orleans restaurant, Johnny Sanchez.

Chef Julia Medina created Tacos de Chapulines for her restaurant in New York City.

The taco is filled with sauteed and dried grasshoppers and jalapenos, topped off with tomatillo salsa and guacamole.

Then, there's Zack "The Cajun Bug Chef" Lemann's Lightly Fried Dragonflies and chef Will Wienckowskis' Roasted Cicadas. Author and chef Daniella Martin served one of the writers from "The Simpsons" shish-kabugs (which included crickets, scorpions, meal- and silkworms) at a bugb-q in Los Angeles. That led to her (animated) appearance on that TV show.

Only 0.1 percent of the five million known insects are harmful, according to Professor Arnold van Huis of Wageningen University in the Netherlands.

So, Dick, feasting on these creepy crawlers is in! Have a backyard barbecue and show your friends how cool you are.

And remember, besides having the same amount of protein as beef, insects have a whole lot less saturated fat and they dish up loads of omega-3s. Plus, insects don't produce anywhere near the greenhouse gasses livestock do. They're fart-free (mostly) and eco-friendly.

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Emerging trends in nursing instruction signal shifts across education

(BPT) - When patients are treated as individuals, they become engaged, active partners in their care plan and their health outcomes improve. This shift in providing customized care to patients is also being adopted by nurse educators, who are applying a similar approach that sets up nursing students for success in both the education and clinical setting. The customization of care is also a driving force behind four growing trends across education: individualized instruction, experiential learning, educating for cultural humility and increased access to education for military students.

Focusing on student success Individualized instruction is an emerging trend that is designed to help students achieve greater confidence and overcome barriers to their education. Each student has their own preferred methods of learning, their own challenges and their own goals.

When nurse educators care about the student's individual success, everyone benefits.

"We believe that if we take extraordinary care of our students, they will in turn take extraordinary care of the patients and families they serve," says Dr. Richard Cowling, vice president of academic affairs at Chamberlain College of Nursing. "We call this value system, 'Chamberlain Care.'"

Through the Chamberlain Care Student Success Model, a team of Chamberlain faculty, advisors and mentors identify any barriers to the student's success and deliver individualized academic coaching and a customized support plan to encourage and support students in reaching their goals.

Fostering active learning To help students reach those goals, nurse educators turn to another emerging trend: active learning. A stark contrast with passive learning, watching a teacher in a classroom or learning from a textbook, nurse educators are cultivating active student participation and curiosity through direct patient care and simulated and virtual learning experiences.

Active learning promotes clinical reasoning and affords students the opportunity to see the outcome of their care decisions in real time. Simulation labs, a form of active learning, engage students to explore various clinical processes but instead of live patients, high-tech mannequins are used. In addition to these on-campus labs, Chamberlain also offers virtual learning environments for students pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.

Both simulation and virtual learning are types of experiential learning opportunities. When direct patient care isn't an option, experiential learning opportunities can be created by nurse educators so students can learn how to respond to disasters, treat infectious diseases or participate in other scenarios they may not have exposure to otherwise.

"Active learning experiences allow students to practice the skills they need in a safe environment," Cowling says. "Students feel in control of their own learning because they receive real-time

feedback from instructors immediately following the experience, which helps in building confidence while they actively build their clinical knowledge and skillset."

Promoting diversity In addition to transforming how students learn, current trends in health care influence what students learn. Today's health care environment is becoming more complex - with a rise in chronic illness, an aging population, ever-changing technology and increasingly diverse communities. The role of the nurse is also rapidly evolving as the focus has shifted to person-centered and culturally congruent care. Students who received individualized attention and a foundation in providing person-centered, culturally congruent care enter the workforce with a deeper understanding of the needs of today's diverse patient populations.

"We have enhanced our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) curriculum to align more closely with the evolving health care needs of our communities and the practice settings where new nurses will serve. In fact, Chamberlain is piloting two programs to provide care to Hispanic communities and to military students," Cowling says. "By customizing the learning experience, nurse educators help create a shift in both the education and health care industry by teaching others cultural humility and how to care for an increasingly diverse patient population in a person-centric way."

Cultural humility is a continual process of self-reflection, selfawareness and self-critique by health care providers in order to develop and maintain mutually respectful and useful partnerships with individuals, families and communities. Rather than focusing on the mastery of many cultures as in cultural competence, cultural humility suggests that understanding other cultures requires a lifelong commitment to a learning process. This encourages an intentional examination of how the nurse's beliefs, values and assumptions influence the delivery of health care and development of relationships with patients and their families.

Leading the next generation The nursing students today are the future nursing leaders of tomorrow. Nurse educators who place a high value on individualized instruction and active learning and prepare students to think about caring for diverse populations in a patientcentered way are helping drive the perspective of the next generation of leaders.

Whether these nurses of tomorrow go on to earn their MSN or Doctor in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, impact health policy, become nurse educators themselves or serve their local communities, students who receive customized education are empowered to achieve their goals. Thanks to the shift in education to a more customized approach, these students received the experiences, training and caring support necessary to transform health care on a local, national and global scale.

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U.S. report: Eggs essential to top 3 healthy diets, but some eggs are better than others (BPT) - They're considered by many to be among nature's most perfect foods, and nutritionists are increasingly touting their health benefits.

That's convenient for the rest of us, since eggs are also among the world's most versatile treats. Think tasty Eggs Benedict, warm hash brown frittata, refreshing egg salad, savory egg-fried rice or sweet and creamy egg custard Not only can the compact and creamy protein be incorporated into a huge range of main dishes, side dishes and desserts, but it also works perfectly with many of today's popular eating patterns. In fact, eggs are recommended in all three eating plans promoted by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture in their dietary report released last year: The Healthy U.S.-Style Pattern, the Healthy Mediterranean-Style Pattern and the Healthy Vegetarian Pattern. The Mediterranean diet, for example, focuses on nutrient-dense foods and recommends that breakfasts feature a quality protein like eggs along with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Of course, eggs are also gluten-free.

"Eggs are a nutrient power-house and one of the most wholesome ways to start your day," says registered dietitian, Lyssie Lakatos.

"Not only are they low in calories and an excellent source of protein that can keep you satiated for hours, but their endless versatility makes it easy to prepare them ahead of time for a healthy grab-and-go snack."

Not all eggs are created equal Consumers should know, however, that not all eggs are created equal, and the diets of the hens that lay them plays a significant part.

Eggland's Best eggs offer the benefit of five times the Vitamin D and 25 percent less saturated fat than ordinary eggs. EB eggs are also packed with other important nutrients including three times the Vitamin B12, more than twice the omega-3s, 10 times the Vitamin E and 38 percent more lutein than regular eggs.

Eggland's Best's superior nutritional profile is due to EB's proprietary, all-vegetarian diet of healthy grains, canola oil and a supplement of rice brain, alfalfa, sea kelp and Vitamin E. In addition, the hens' feed contains no added hormones, antibiotics, steroids, animal byproducts, or recycled or processed foods. The resulting eggs are produced locally throughout the U.S. so they are delivered farm fresh to your local supermarket. In fact, a recent independent study showed that Eggland's Best eggs stay fresher longer than ordinary eggs.

"I always look to provide my family and clients with the best, and Eggland's Best eggs are just that," said Lakatos. "I tell my clients to include foods that are the biggest nutritional bang for your calorie buck, and Eggland's Best eggs offer more for your calories since they are much higher in essential nutrients and all for only 60 calories!"

See a recipe below by Eggland's Best that is perfect for those following the Mediterranean diet: Mediterranean Baked Eggs Ingredients 4 Eggland's Best Eggs (large) 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes 1 tablespoon butter 1 medium (3/4 cup) onion, chopped 1 cup sliced mushrooms 1 (6-ounce) bag fresh spinach leaves 6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh garlic 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 small (1/2 cup) tomato, chopped 4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves Preparation ∞F. Butter 4 (each 8-ounces & 1 1/4- to 1 Heat oven to 400ÂŹâˆž 1/2-inch deep) individual glass or ceramic baking dishes.Spoon 1/2 cup potatoes evenly onto bottom of each baking dish.Bake 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are very lightly browned.Melt butter in 12-inch skillet until sizzling; add onions and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat until vegetables are softened.Add spinach leaves; continue cooking, turning spinach often, 4-5 minutes or until spinach is wilted.Add whipping cream, garlic, salt and pepper; continue cooking 1 minute.Add tomato, 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and basil.Spread mixture over partially cooked potatoes; sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.Using a spoon, make an indentation in center of mixture in each baking dish.Crack 1 egg into each indentation. Bake 18-20 minutes or until yolks are set or yolk temperature reaches 160F.

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Hepatitis C: A silent epidemic among baby boomers (BPT) - Did you know baby boomers are at higher risk of being infected with the Hepatitis C virus, and that often they don't show symptoms for many years? That's a concern, because Hepatitis C is a serious liver condition that results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus. Seventy to 85 percent of those with Hepatitis C develop a chronic infection, which can lead to liver disease, liver cancer, and even death. In fact, as many as 3.5 million people in the U.S. have Hepatitis C and most don't even know it.

What is most alarming is that those who are at highest risk are not aware that they can be living with this silent epidemic.

Seventy-five percent of people with Hepatitis C are baby boomers born between 1945 and 1965. It is not well understood why baby boomers have high rates of Hepatitis C, but it believed that some could have been infected from contaminated blood or even from tattoo needles or ear piercings before precautions were adopted.

Due to the high prevalence, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends those born between 1945 and 1965, who are five times more likely to have Hepatitis C, get tested for the disease. The only way to know if someone has Hepatitis C is to get screened through a simple one-time blood test. However, because most baby boomers are not aware that they are at higher risk, they are not tested and may be unaware that they have the infection. Not only does this affect that person, but it can continue the spread of Hepatitis C to loved ones.

There are new and successful treatments, which can eliminate the virus, preventing liver damage and liver disease. Antiviral medications can cure approximately 90 percent of Hepatitis C infections but the biggest barrier is diagnosis, which can be difficult since people can live for decades without any symptoms.

This is why talking to a doctor and getting screened is so vital.

Early diagnosis leads to early treatment and the prevention of health problems that Hepatitis C can present over time.

Unfortunately, the delay in diagnosis and treatment has been a contributing factor to half of the cases of liver cancer in the United States, which incidence increased by 72 percent from 2003 to 2012. Quest Diagnostics, a leading provider of Hepatitis C testing, recently launched a new video for baby boomers to help raise awareness and create a better understanding of the importance of Hepatitis C screenings.

The CDC continues to urge those born between 1945 and 1965 to speak with their doctors about getting screened. One simple blood test can make a huge difference in someone's life.

Learn more about baby boomers and Hepatitis C at www.KnowAboutHepC.com and www.cdc.gov/knowmorehepatitis/.

What are the symptoms of acute Hepatitis C? Approximately 70%–80% of people with acute Hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. Some people, however, can have mild to severe symptoms soon after being infected, including: • Fever • Fatigue • Loss of appetite • Nausea • Vomiting • Abdominal pain • Dark urine • Clay-colored bowel movements • Joint pain • Jaundice (yellow color in the skin or eyes) How soon after exposure to Hepatitis C do symptoms appear?

If symptoms occur, the average time is 6–7 weeks after exposure, but this can range from 2 weeks to 6 months.

However, many people infected with the Hepatitis C virus do not develop symptoms.

Can a person spread Hepatitis C without having symptoms?

Yes, even if a person with Hepatitis C has no symptoms, he or she can still spread the virus to others.

Is it possible to have Hepatitis C and not know it?

Yes, many people who are infected with the Hepatitis C virus do not know they are infected because they do not look or feel sick.

What are the symptoms of chronic Hepatitis C? Most people with chronic Hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. However, if a person has been infected for many years, his or her liver may be damaged. In many cases, there are no symptoms of the disease until liver problems have developed. In persons without symptoms, Hepatitis C is often detected during routine blood tests to measure liver function and liver enzyme (protein produced by the liver) level.

How serious is chronic Hepatitis C? Chronic Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in long-term health problems, including liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, or even death. It is the leading cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplantation in the United States. Approximately 19,000 people die every year from Hepatitis C related liver disease.

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Tips to help moms sleep better during back-to-school transitions

(BPT) - Early mornings, new extracurricular activities and loads of homework - back to school is a big transition for kids. With the focus on children's success, there's one family member who always sacrifices her well-being to ensure days run smoothly: Mom. "She lays in bed at night planning the next day. She gets up earlier than the kids to prepare meals. She selflessly packs her schedule to meet family obligations," says Shannon Wright, Master of

Science in Nutritional Sciences and wellness expert for Natrol.

Wright says that this do-it-all attitude is admirable, but the effects mean moms are losing the important sleep they need to feel their best and stay healthy.

"Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night that includes all sleep stages in order to feel well rested," Wright says. "One out of three Americans don't get enough sleep and women are two times more likely to have difficulty falling and staying asleep."

A good night's rest includes four different sleep stages with 90-minute phases of alternating non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. To help moms everywhere reach all stages and sleep better during the hectic back-to-school season and all year long, Wright recommends following these tips and tricks: Adopt a sleep routine A consistent sleep-wake schedule isn't just good for your kids, it's good for you, too.

This supports your body's natural circadian rhythms that occur with the day-night transition. This also supports the release of melatonin, the

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body's naturally produced hormone that signals the body to sleep soundly.

practice, join the kids on the playground or pop in that yoga DVD to start your morning out with a good stretch.

Create a sleep oasis The bedroom environment should be conducive to sleep and that goes beyond the bed.

A cool, dark, noise-free bedroom helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer. If you have noise or light challenges, consider blackout shades, face masks, ear plugs and white noise machines.

Avoid late evening screen time The kids are finally in bed and moms everywhere have a few moments to themselves.

Catching up on email, watching TV shows and perusing your smartphone can kill sleep potential if you do it within an hour of bedtime. Essentially, the LED lights make your brain believe it's day and therefore prohibit melatonin release.

Exercise daily There is a lot of research that connects quality sleep to exercise, so even if you're tired, try to move and groove your body every day. Walk the field perimeter at the kids' soccer

Be proactive about tomorrow Enjoy a smoother morning and fewer worries while you're lying in bed by getting things done the night before. For example, make lunches, pack backpacks, shower and lay out clothes for the next day in the evening. You'll have fewer todo's in the morning and you can sleep in a little later.

Take sleep-supportive supplements Stress, along with other things like age, diet and lifestyle can affect our bodies' production of melatonin. Taking a melatonin supplement can help. Try Natrol, a 100% drugfree melatonin supplement that is non-habit forming. The fastdissolve tablets help moms fall asleep faster, stay asleep and wake up refreshed to tackle another busy day.

"These tips may be simple, but they are extremely effective. Remember, with a good night's rest it's a whole lot easier to be Super Mom," Wright says.

MAKING AN IMPACT

By Stephanie M. Freeman Working in the fitness industry is an extremely rewarding career. Being able to share fitness knowledge, nutrition and help of any kind that makes an impact on someone’s life is beyond rewarding in my opinion.

One evening after training a child in the gym a lady approached me. She looked at me sternly and said, “I just joined your gym and would appreciate it so much if you could help me lose 20 pounds and get fit.” I glanced at her and said sure I can help you. I always ask, ladies especially, what their goals are and why exactly they feel they need to lose weight? After I asked her this she said, “I am a mother of three, and since my last child I haven’t had an urge to do any activities.” I told her I completely understood what she was saying, but 20 pounds was way too much for her to lose. When she told me why she wanted to lose this I could hardly believe my ears.

Actually, it was something I hate to hear women utter. She told me that her husband and sister thought she was too big.

I speak with women and the younger girls I train often, and I love sharing one of the biggest secrets to life I have discovered. Freeing your mind of those nasty opinions from the negative Nancy’s in the world is so fulfilling for your life. It has to be the most liberating thing I ever did, although living in the south and being a single mother, I did find it very hard to overcome but that mission did get accomplished! It took many years to break free from that cycle but what I found in life is those negative people with their opinions are obstacles, hurdles, or stop signs we are supposed to overcome. If I had paid any attention to those negative Nancy’s I would have never boarded the first plane to fulfill one of my biggest dreams.

What I preach to people who come to me for guidance or help of any kind is take the risk.

If you fail that is fine, you

ASK DOCTOR K IF YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, USE A HOME MONITOR

By Anthony L. Komaroff, M.D.

Stephanie M. Freeman is a model, a runner, a trainer, and a brain injury survivor from here in the state of Georgia.

She is the founder of the nonprofit brain trauma organization Share Your Strong with a sole mission to bring health and awareness to brain trauma, while encouraging and inspiring the lives of people going through this silent epidemic. She speaks and helps educate on this injury from 23 years of her own experience. She is a part of the Brain Injury Advisory Council with The Brain Injury Association of America.

learned what you didn’t want or what wasn’t right, but pick it back up and keep going strong.

I say so often to people we are raised, especially in the south, by a stop sign. We hear don’t do this, stop doing that, you can’t do this, you can’t do that.

It is extremely hard to break that cycle of thinking, believe me when I say this. It is my opinion that hearing our parents or family and friends tell us this at such a young age actually dims our light, the spirit of life we are blessed with.

This to me is why I hear complaints that I can’t run, I can’t do this pull up, I can’t do this push up, or whatever it is because our confidence levels aren’t set in us early enough.

But I assure ya when I hear those complaints in any of my presence I am right there encouraging them on letting them know they can in fact move mountains, only when they are ready though.

DEAR DOCTOR K: I have hypertension and am on treatment. When my doctor checks the pressure, he says I'm doing "OK." Should I be monitoring my blood pressure at home?

DEAR READER: You should definitely talk to your doctor about that.

Home blood pressure monitors are easy and inexpensive, and provide you and your doctor with the information you need to protect your health.

About one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure, or hypertension. And about half of those with high blood pressure don't have it under control. Hypertension increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. In my opinion, hypertension is one of the most important public health problems in the United States, as it affects so many people.

Recognizing and treating it brings enormous health benefits.

You always have a blood pressure, every minute of the night and day, and it can change a lot from one moment to the next. What matters most to your health is where your blood pressure is on average.

Before we had home blood pressure monitoring machines, the way a doctor determined if your blood pressure was controlled was to have you make a trip to his or her office.

If you think about it, that's pretty silly. The doctor is supposed to estimate what your average blood pressure is all day and all night based on one visit to the doctor's office every several months.

Furthermore, many people get nervous when they visit the doctor -- yes, even my patients. So their blood pressure temporarily goes up, and is higher than it normally is. Home blood pressure machines make it easy to get a much better estimate of what your average blood pressure

really is.

In one study, researchers enrolled 450 people with hypertension. About half were given home blood pressure monitors that electronically sent their blood pressure readings to health professionals nearly every day. Based on these results, their medicines were adjusted and lifestyle changes were advised. The other half of the people in the study received usual care from their primary care providers.

At every step of the way, people in the home monitoring group had more success getting their blood pressure under control. The benefits persisted six months after the program had ended.

You can buy a good home blood pressure monitor for under $100.

Look for: -- an automatic monitor that doesn't require a stethoscope (it's easier to use); -- a monitor that takes the blood pressure reading using a cuff that fits around the upper arm, not the wrist or finger; -- a read-out large enough for you to see the numbers; -- a seal of approval from a trusted organization.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for help in calibrating your monitor and learning how to use it. Also ask how often you should check your blood pressure, and share the results of your readings with your doctor. Finally, remember that home monitoring is not a substitute for regular physician checkups.

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For Alzheimer's caregivers, knowledge is power (BPT) - Michael Snowden was just 12 and his sister 16 when their mother began to exhibit symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Although they didn't receive a definitive diagnosis until seven years later, the need to assume caregiving roles while still in their teens profoundly affected their lives.

"Not many people understood the disease or how to take care of her," Michael says. "We did not really understand the disease ourselves after the diagnosis.

Eventually, my sister and I had to take over the caregiving responsibilities. Our lives quickly changed."

The number of Americans with Alzheimer's is set to triple over the next 35 years.

"Unless something is done to change its course, the Alzheimer's crisis will continue impacting not only the millions of Americans currently living with the disease, but their caregivers, friends and family," says Ruth Drew, director of family and information services for the Alzheimer's Association.

"Caregiving can become anyone's reality. As the prevalence of the disease increases, more people from all walks of life, economic strata and ages will find themselves helping to support someone with Alzheimer's in the coming years."

Approximately two-thirds of caregivers are adult women typically wives or daughters of people with Alzheimer's. A growing number of teenagers and men, however, are finding themselves in a full-time caregiving role.

"Facing early-onset Alzheimer's when my wife, Chris, was in her mid-40s was devastating," recalls Mark

Donham, whose wife passed away from Alzheimer's in 2011 at the age of 54. "Since we did not have extended family nearby, I decided that I would

quit my job and care for Chris full time. We had to live on savings, knowing our financial future would be difficult."

In addition to financial burdens, Alzheimer's caregivers can become so focused on their role that they neglect their own physical, mental, financial and emotional well-being. In fact, according to the Alzheimer's Association 2016 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures report, 20 percent of care contributors sacrificed their own medical care by cutting back on doctor visits.

"My biggest challenge was trying to figure out 'how to take care of yourself' as your loved one declines," Donham says.

For caregivers, he advises, "Be sure to take active steps to take care of yourself so that you can be the best possible caregiver for your loved one."

With more people becoming primary caregivers, the

resources provided by the Alzheimer's Association are more critical than ever. Across the country, Alzheimer's

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Association chapters provide face-to-face services such as support groups and educational sessions within communities.

A professionally staffed 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) provides information and advice to more than 300,000 callers each year. Recognizing the growing diversity of Alzheimer's caregivers, the Helpline also provides translation services in more than 200 languages. The Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregiver Center, part of alz.org, offers a wealth of caregiving tips and resources at every stage of the disease.

Online message boards and forums allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges to share information, resources and find support at any time of day or night.

Support and information can be empowering, the Snowdens and Donham say.

"Understand the disease," Shanelle Snowden says. "Once you are able to educate yourself on the disease, you will be able to cope better and you will be able to take care of your loved one better."

Donham learned from others in the same situation. "Early on in Chris' disease, I developed coping strategies," Donham says. "I came to accept the disease, got connected to a support group, and educated myself as to the course of the disease and what help I would need to make sure Chris had the best care possible."

For people facing the task of becoming an Alzheimer's caregiver, Donham and

Snowden offer some advice: Act early, before symptoms become severe.

"Face the diagnosis, and use the earliest times to get legal and financial matters in order," Donham says. "Connect with a support group so that you are not alone on the journey."

The Alzheimer's Navigator helps those facing the disease to determine their needs and develop an action plan. In addition to planning for the future, knowing the diagnosis early also enables the person with Alzheimer's to get the maximum benefit from available treatments and participate in clinical studies that help advance research. Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch connects individuals with Alzheimer's, caregivers, healthy volunteers and physicians with current studies.

"Cherish each and every moment with your loved one," Michael Snowden says.

"Create moments of joy by doing the small things like sitting and watching TV together, listening to their favorite song or even just dancing. It will be something you'll always remember about that person, and not the negative things that come with the disease. Other people out there are going through the same thing. Remember, this was not a curse put upon you or your loved one; it is something that is making you a stronger person."

To learn more about Alzheimer's disease and resources for caregivers, visit www.alz.org.

Back-to-school 101 for kids with allergies and asthma

(BPT) - There are lots of things kids get excited about when they go back to school.

From brand new lunch boxes loaded with pudding cups, to shiny 64-packs of crayons and catching up with friends they haven't seen for awhile, anticipation is in the air.

But if you're a parent of one of the 28 million children who suffer from allergies, or one of the 7.1 million children who have asthma, sending kids back to school can cause anxious moments.

"Many parents look forward to their child returning to the classroom," said allergist Janna Tuck, spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).

"But for parents of children with allergies or asthma, school raises questions about

conditions that can't be controlled or monitored. They want to make sure their child is safe, has adequate resources and that systems are in place if they have an asthma or allergy attack."

By following these suggestions from the ACAAI, you can help ensure your child has a safe, fun start to the school year.

Know their triggers.

Students with pets at home can bring pet dander into school.

Other common allergens such as pollen and dust will definitely find their way into the classroom. If your child suddenly develops a runny nose, has difficulty breathing or comes home with a rash, it may be related to classroom triggers.

Check with your allergist if previously unseen symptoms occur or if existing symptoms worsen.

Make an

appointment with an allergist. If you think your child might have allergies or asthma, making an appointment with a board-certified allergist is the first step to accurately developing a game plan. An allergist can determine what's causing your child's symptoms, as well as provide guidance to help both of you cope with allergies and asthma.

Through prescribing medication and creating treatment plans, your allergist can provide the care that leads to fewer school absences.

Talk to your child about lunch time.

Younger children especially might be excited to share food with friends or try new things on the lunch menu. If your child has a food allergy, it's important they know why they cannot eat certain things or share

food. If your child is prescribed an epinephrine auto injector, make sure the staff is trained in how to use it, and knows where your child's is located.

Meet with the school.

This is one of the biggest steps in preparing for the new school year. Your child's teachers, coaches, school nurse and principal should all be informed about your child's asthma and/or allergies, and what medications they carry with them. All 50 states have laws allowing children to carry their needed medication. If your child is old enough, teach them how to use their epinephrine auto injector or rescue inhaler. Make sure they understand warning signs and symptoms, what precautions to take and who to talk to if a reaction develops.

Talk with your child's

friends and other parents.

Communication is always a good policy when it comes to managing your child's allergies and asthma.

Talking to your child's friends, or asking their parents to talk to their children about asthma and allergies, adds another layer of support. This is important for social reasons, as the more your child's friends and classmates understand allergies and asthma, the less chance your child will feel isolated.

It can be a challenge to keep your kids free from allergy and asthma triggers. To help get you started on developing an action plan and find an allergist in your area check out the ACAAI allergist locator tool.

The ACAAI website has lots of resources to ensure your child has a safe and enjoyable school year.

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SPOTLIGHT ON: BREASTFEEDING YOUR BABY

Making the decision to breastfeed is a personal matter.

It's also one that's likely to draw strong opinions from friends and family.

Many medical authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, strongly recommend breastfeeding. But you and your baby are unique, and the decision is up to you.

This overview of breastfeeding can help you decide.

What Are the Benefits of Breastfeeding for Your Baby?

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein, and fat -- everything your baby needs to grow. And it's all provided in a form more easily digested than infant formula. Breast milk contains antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria.

Breastfeeding lowers your baby's risk of having asthma or allergies. Plus, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea. They also have fewer hospitalizations and trips to the doctor.

Breastfeeding has been linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood in some studies.

What's more, the physical closeness, skin-to-skin touching, and eye contact all help your baby bond with you and feel secure. Breastfed infants are more likely to gain the right amount of weight as they grow rather than become overweight children. The AAP says breastfeeding also plays a role in the prevention of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). It's been thought to lower the risk of diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers as well, but more research is needed.

Are There Breastfeeding Benefits for the Mother?

Breastfeeding burns extra calories, so it can help you lose pregnancy weight faster. It releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps your uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth. Breastfeeding also lowers your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. It may lower your risk of osteoporosis, too.

Since you don't have to buy and measure formula, sterilize nipples, or warm bottles, it saves you time and money. It

also gives you regular time to relax quietly with your newborn as you bond.

Will I Make Enough Milk to Breastfeed?

The first few days after birth, your breasts make an ideal "first milk." It's called colostrum.

Colostrum is thick, yellowish, and scant, but there's plenty to meet your baby's nutritional needs. Colostrum helps a newborn's digestive tract develop and prepare itself to digest breast milk.

Most babies lose a small amount of weight in the first 3 to 5 days after birth. This is unrelated to breastfeeding.

As your baby needs more milk and nurses more, your breasts respond by making more milk.

Experts recommend breastfeeding exclusively (no formula, juice, or water) for 6 months. If you supplement with formula, your breasts might make less milk.

Even if you breastfeed less than the recommended 6 months, it's better to breastfeed for a short time than no time at all. You can add solid food at 6 months but also continue to breastfeed if you want to keep producing milk.

What's the Best Position for Breastfeeding?

The best position for you is the one where you and your baby are both comfortable and relaxed, and you don't have to strain to hold the position or keep nursing. Here are some common positions for breastfeeding your baby: • Cradle position. Rest the side of your baby's head in the crook of your elbow with his whole body facing you. Position your baby's belly against your

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body so he feels fully supported. Your other, "free" arm can wrap around to support your baby's head and neck -- or reach through your baby's legs to support the lower back.

• Football position. Line your baby's back along your forearm to hold your baby like a football, supporting his head and neck in your palm. This works best with newborns and small babies. It's also a good position if you're recovering from a cesarean birth and need to protect your belly from the pressure or weight of your baby.

• Side-lying position. This position is great for night feedings in bed. Side-lying also works well if you're recovering from an episiotomy, an incision to widen the vaginal opening during delivery. Use pillows under your head to get comfortable. Then snuggle close to your baby and use your free hand to lift your breast and nipple into your baby's mouth.

Once your baby is correctly "latched on," support your baby's head and neck with your free hand so there's no twisting or straining to keep nursing.

How Do I Get My Baby to 'Latch on' During Breastfeeding?

Position your baby facing you, so your baby is comfortable and doesn't have to twist his neck to feed. With one hand, cup your breast and gently stroke your baby's lower lip with your nipple. Your baby's instinctive reflex will be to open the mouth wide. With your hand supporting your baby's neck, bring your baby's mouth closer around your nipple, trying to center your nipple in the baby's mouth above the tongue.

You'll know your baby is "latched on" correctly when both lips are pursed outward around your nipple. Your infant should have all of your nipple and most of the areola, which is the darker skin around your nipple, in his mouth. While you may feel a slight tingling or tugging, breastfeeding should not be painful. If your baby isn't latched on correctly and nursing with a smooth, comfortable rhythm, gently nudge your pinky between your baby's gums to break the suction, remove your nipple, and try again. Good "latching on" helps prevent sore nipples.

What Are the ABCs of Breastfeeding?

•A = Awareness. Watch for your baby's signs of hunger, and breastfeed whenever your baby is hungry. This is called "on demand" feeding. The first few weeks, you may be nursing eight to 12 times every 24 hours. Hungry infants move their hands toward their mouths, make sucking noises or mouth movements, or move toward your breast. Don't wait for your baby to cry. That's a sign he's too hungry.

•B = Be patient. Breastfeed as long as your baby wants to nurse each time. Don't hurry your infant through feedings.

Infants typically breastfeed for 10 to 20 minutes on each breast.

•C = Comfort. This is key.

Relax while breastfeeding, and your milk is more likely to "let down" and flow. Get yourself comfortable with pillows as needed to support your arms, head, and neck, and a footrest to support your feet and legs before you begin to breastfeed.

High Blood Pressure By Itself Is Not The 'silent' liver disease: Necessarily An Emergency

WASHINGTON —Visits to emergency departments for patients with hypertension increased by 64 percent between 2002 and 2012 while hospitalizations for those visits declined by 28 percent. A study published online yesterday in Annals of Emergency Medicine suggests that aggressive home monitoring of blood pressure may be driving patients to emergency departments despite the lack of other emergency conditions, such as stroke (“A Population-Based Analysis Of Outcomes In Patients With A Primary Diagnosis Of Hypertension In The Emergency Department”).

“We encourage patients to monitor their blood pressure at home if they have been diagnosed with hypertension, but not every high blood pressure reading is an emergency,” said lead study author Clare Atzema, MD, an emergency physician at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and a scientist at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. “Some of the increase in emergency visits is due to the aging of our population, but we suspect that recent public education campaigns recommending home blood pressure monitoring may have inadvertently contributed to the rise in visits for hypertension.”

During the study period in which visits to Ontario emergency departments for hypertension increased from 15,793 to 25,950 per year, the proportion of patients admitted to the hospital as a result decreased from 9.9 percent to 7.1 percent. Among the patients whose emergency department visit ended in admission to the hospital, the most frequent hospital diagnoses were stroke, renal failure and heart failure. The proportion of patients arriving via ambulance increased over time, from 10.7 percent to 14.3

percent.

Mortality was very low: less than 1 percent of patients died within 90 days and only 4.1 percent died within 2 years. Together, hospitalizations for stroke, heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, renal failure, hypertensive encephalopathy and aortic dissection were less than 1 percent at 30 days.

“Stroke remains a huge killer and we do appreciate patients with hypertension being so conscientious about monitoring their readings,” said Dr. Atzema. “Patients should be aware that unless their high blood pressure coincides with symptoms of a medical emergency, such as chest pain, severe headache, nausea or shortness of breath, they probably do not need to visit the ER. We of course encourage them to follow up as soon as possible with their regular physician. If there is any doubt, come to the emergency department: we would rather have you come without an emergency than stay home with one.”

Annals of Emergency Medicine is the peer-reviewed scientific journal for the American College of Emergency Physicians, the national medical society representing emergency medicine. ACEP is committed to advancing emergency care through continuing education, research, and public education.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, ACEP has 53 chapters representing each state, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. A Government Services Chapter represents emergency physicians employed by military branches and other government agencies. For more information, visit www.acep.org.

A new public health concern for the 21st Century (BPT) - By the time you finish reading this article, 14 American adults will have been newly diagnosed with diabetes. Thirty-three percent of Americans are obese, and by 2030, this rate is expected to rise to 50 percent.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a growing epidemic associated with diabetes and obesity. NAFLD is a chronic liver disease characterized by the build-up of extra fat in the liver cells that is not caused by alcohol use. While it is normal for the liver to contain some fat, certain people accumulate extra fat. Left untreated, the accumulation of fat in the liver can progress to a more severe form of NAFLD called Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH).

NASH is fatty liver with inflammation (tissue injury).

Over time, the buildup of fat in the liver causes the liver cells to become damaged. In some patients, this eventually leads to liver fibrosis (scarring) and cirrhosis (severe scarring), which results in other health complications, including liver failure, liver cancer and even death. The exact cause of NASH is unknown, but known risk factors include type 2 diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

NASH has become known as the "silent" liver disease.

Many people with risk factors likely have NASH but are unaware because they may experience minimal to no symptoms. NASH can progress for years or decades undiagnosed. "NASH is an underappreciated, yet serious health concern that warrants more public attention," says Dr. Stephen Harrison, one of the world's leading experts studying NASH. "If you suspect you might have NASH, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider about your options for managing the condition."

Here are some facts about NASH 1. As the rates of diabetes and obesity continue to climb, the incidence of NASH will rise, as well.

2. More than 10 percent of the global adult population is estimated to be living with NASH. 3. At least one-third of Americans are estimated to have NAFLD and approximately 6 million have progressed to NASH. 4. Of the more than 400 million obese adults worldwide, approximately 75 percent are likely to have NAFLD and up to 20 percent have progressed to NASH. 5. By 2020, NASH is expected to become the leading cause for liver transplantations in the U.S. Diagnosis In many patients NASH can exist with no symptoms and normal blood tests. If you have diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, insulin resistance, and/or high blood pressure, you may have NASH and should talk to your doctor and request further evaluation. Your doctor may order special tests and a liver biopsy to diagnose NASH and the amount of liver scarring.

Treatment options The current standard of care for NASH involves lifestyle counseling with diet and exercise. There are no approved therapies for the treatment of NASH. Enrolling in a clinical trial New treatment options are being investigated in clinical trials. Clinical trials are essential to advancing medicine and play an important role in getting new drugs approved to treat a particular condition. To learn more about an ongoing clinical trial for NASH, visit www.nashstudy.com.

Institutions in NYC, Long Island, San Antonio, Dallas, Memphis, Nashville, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento and Freso, among others, are currently enrolling patients in clinical trials to study potential treatments for NASH. This makes it particularly important to inform readers in these areas about this silent liver disease so they can take action should they be concerned about their risk for NASH.

August 2016 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 21

4 ways to boost your family's health Gym-free fitness ideas anyone can do (BPT) - Visiting a gym to lift weights or take a class is great for your health.

However, busy schedules, tight budgets and simply not feeling like the gym environment is for you are reasons that frequently cause people to stop going.

Fortunately, being fit doesn't require the gym!

Tavis Piattoly, a sports dietitian, expert nutritionist and co-founder of My Sports Dietitian, offers some no-fuss ideas for staying healthy without the gym.

Inside the home Stuck inside? No problem. Try some squats or, if mobility is an issue, squat to a chair. Push-ups are another classic, highly effective option. If regular push-ups aren't an option, do them from your knees or against the wall. Other amazing exercises: lunges around the house, shoulder presses with dumbbells, jumping rope, jumping jacks, running in place, planks and sit-ups.

Outside in nature Being out in the fresh air is a great escape that offers loads of fitness possibilities.

Try hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, skiing, fishing, mountain biking or whatever else peaks your curiosity.

Simply taking a walk around the yard or block is beneficial, too.

At the office Overcome the sedentary office lifestyle by making time for fitness. Try taking the stairs every day and park far away so you walk to the door. Then, use a 5minute break every hour to do something active such as chair squats or seated leg raises. Set an automated alert so you don't forget.

Group fitness Fitness can be more fun

when you do it with friends or family. Play tag, organize relay races or create an obstacle course outside.

Other enjoyable group fitness activities include hiking, swimming, basketball, soccer, Frisbee and bike rides.

When out and about A busy schedule packed with errands still presents the opportunity for fitness.

For example, walk or run the parking lot while kids are taking dance or music classes rather than passing the time on your smartphone.

Nutrients A healthy balance of nutrients keeps blood sugar levels from crashing and gives you a steady source of energy. Piattoly especially recommends taking a Nordic Naturals supplement daily to get the omega-3s you need for optimal health. Extensive research has documented the health benefits of the two main omega-3s (EPA and DHA), which include not only support for a healthy heart, but also brain and cognitive function, joint mobility, eye health, pregnancy and lactation, healthy skin and hair, and a normally functioning immune response.

Balanced meals To support fitness efforts, it's important to eat well and regularly. The best foods for sustained energy are balanced meals of complex fiber carbohydrates, healthy fats and lean protein.

Piattoly suggests eating every three to four hours.

Some ideas to include in balanced meals: whole grain breads and crackers, chicken breast, legumes and fresh fruit and vegetables.

22 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | August 2016

(BPT) - Summertime and outdoor fun go hand-in-hand. But even with blue skies and sunshine, most of us spend about 90 percent of our time indoors, even during the summer, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

With school out, families are spending more time with each other. This is the perfect opportunity to kick-start new healthy habits by taking steps that will help improve your family's overall wellbeing.

Breathing cleaner air in your home is one of the many ways to help improve the health of your family. Experts agree, the air inside your home might not be the best for you and your family. Research shows that the air inside our homes can be up to 5 times more polluted than the air outside.

Rallie McAllister, MD, MPH, a family physician in Lexington, Kentucky, and coauthor of The Mommy MD Guide to the Toddler Years, encourages awareness, conversation, and education about health and wellness of children - and of entire families.

"Between the heat of summer and the dramatic weather changes, I see a lot of families suffer from allergies, skin irritations and summer colds," says Dr. McAllister. "Take advantage of the upcoming months to make changes to promote a healthier lifestyle and prevent illness."

She suggests the following tips to help motivate your family and make healthy living fun this summer: Grow plants. Hosting houseplants has many benefits including deterring illness and boosting healing. Some of the best plants for your home include Boston ferns, palm trees, rubber plants, and English ivy. Take a field trip to your local nursery and allow your children to choose their favorite plant.

Eat fresh fruits and veggies. Boost your family's health and hydration by eating plenty of in-season, organic, waterfilled fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Planting a garden is a fun way to get the kids involved and excited about eating healthy foods.

Play outside. Exercise doesn't have to involve joining a team or adopting a formal regimen. By playing outside with your kids, such as throwing a ball or taking a bike ride, you'll make great memories and get exercise as a bonus.

Breathe cleaner air. Regularly use a quality air purifier to clean the air in your home from airborne particles that trigger allergies and breathing issues. Try the Winix HR1000, one of the first Wi-Fi enabled air purifiers available at www.homedepot.com. This air purifier pairs with the Winix Smart app that works from your iOS and Android smart phone or tablet to control the unit from anywhere. Get your children involved in learning about your home's indoor and outdoor air quality by using the app's features.

LUNCHBOX SOLUTIONS: CREATING BALANCED MEALS FOR SCHOOL Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers (BPT) - Heading back to school means a ramp up in routine for lots of families. One of the best ways to not only support their learning, but also show kids you care - even when you're not there - is to pack a wholesome, balanced lunch.

These tips and tricks will help any parent whip up something tasty in mere minutes so kids can stay fueled throughout the day.

Plus, with a few touches of creativity, mom and dad can look forward to the return of empty lunch boxes because their kids won't be able to resist gobbling up the goodies inside.

School day smoothies Smoothies are a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your child's diet, plus it's a special treat that will have them grinning ear to ear when they open their lunch box. The trick is to make smoothies ahead of time then freeze them in silicon or insulated containers. Add them to a lunchbox in the morning and by lunchtime it will thaw enough to enjoy. Bonus: it keep will other foods cool so there's no need to add a freezer pack.

DIY shape sandwiches Sandwiches are an easy go-to that kids love, and with a few simple switches, you can create a more nutritious option that's also fun to eat. Start by swapping traditional white bread for Nature's Harvest bread. With 8 grams or more of whole grains per serving in every delicious variety, Nature's Harvest bread packs a powerful punch in every bite.

For example, use Honey Wheat or Butterwheat to create your child's favorite sandwich. Then use a cookie cutter to create an unexpected shape. It's a fun and delicious way to get whole grains in their diet and meet the 32-48 grams of whole grains recommended per day. Visit Entenmann's YouTube page to check out these cute DIY's.

Fun fruit faces Want to get a chuckle out of your child on a tough Monday?

Cheer them up during test

day? Encourage them to eat more fresh foods? Fun fruit faces should do the trick. Grab any fruit with a thick impermeable skin such as bananas or oranges and then use a nontoxic marker to make a face. A few fun squiggles and you have a silly fruit friend that will make lunchtime special.

Perfectly portable treats If your child is asking for a tasty treat, but you're low on time and energy, give them something they'll love without spending any time in the kitchen when you pack Entenmann's Little Bites snacks. These delicious prepackaged, portable snacks include soft and moist flavors like Chocolate Chip and Blueberry Muffins. Made with real ingredients, these A+ lunchbox solutions for balanced back-to-school meals will leave kids smiling at lunch or after school.

Dipping sticks Kids love to dip food for a hands-on eating experience.

Start by adding a small container of low-fat dressing or yogurt. Then, cut up fruit, veggies, cheese and meat into long bite-size sticks that kids can easily grab and dip to their hearts' desire. Include a rainbow of options to tantalize the eyes and taste buds, plus the more colors the more vitamins they'll be eating. For many fruits and veggies, you can cut up a week's worth on Sunday and then simply pack each day before school.

Win a $10,000 Savings Bond Support your kids' learning now, and take steps to help ensure success down the road by entering to win a Savings Bond. From July 15 to September 15, visit www.LifeoftheLunchbox.com to enter the Life of a Lunchbox sweepstakes for a chance to win a $10,000 Savings Bond for your child. An additional 100 2nd prize winners will receive a Lunchbox Bundle that includes Entenmann's Little Bites snacks, Nature's Harvest bread and a $50 gift card for school supplies.

Courtesy of allrecipes.com

"These are a big hit in the summertime when everyone is tired of the same old hamburgers and hot dogs. Serve with or without buns and your favorite condiments. I like to serve these with lettuce, tomato, and Tzatziki sauce."

Ingredients 2 eggs, beaten 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 ounces feta cheese 1 (10 ounce) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 2 pounds ground turkey

Directions Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil grate.

While the grill is preheating, mix together eggs, garlic, feta cheese, spinach, and turkey in a large bowl until well combined; form into 8 patties.

Cook on preheated grill until no longer pink in the center, 15 to 20 minutes.

August 2016 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 23

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24 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | August 2016