Good Health ’23 7/12/23 edition is published monthly by Anton Media Group

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Healthy Vision Tips

1 Eat right to protect your sight. Keep your eyes healthy by eating a well-balanced diet. Load up on different types of fruits and veggies, especially leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens. Fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut have been shown to help your eyes, too.

2Get moving. Did you know that kids who exercise often have a healthier body weight than kids who don’t? Being overweight or obese can put you at higher risk for diabetes and other conditions that can lead to vision problems.

Conjunctivitis: What Is Pink Eye?

BY KIERSTAN BOYD specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Conjunctivitis—often called “pink eye”—is inflammation of the conjunctiva from infection or allergies. Your eyes are red and swollen (inflamed), and sometimes they have a sticky discharge. You can have conjunctivitis in one or both eyes. Some types of pink eye are very contagious (easily spread from person to person), but many others are not.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria or by allergies.

Speak up if your vision changes. Is your vision blurry? Do you squint a lot? Ever have trouble seeing things at

3

5Keep the germs away.

Always wash your hands before putting them close to your eyes, especially if you’re putting in or taking out contact lenses.

Ten tips to take care of your kids’ eyes

100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation from the sun. And remember, look directly at the sun.

Nearsighedness Is A Public Health Crisis

Nearsightedness has risen dramatically over the last 50 years. If nothing is done to help slow the increase, half the world’s population may be nearsighted by the year 2050. That means much more than a lot of people in glasses. It means a lot of kids today are at risk of developing vision-threatening eye conditions tomorrow. That’s why the American Academy of Ophthalmology is sharing information about myopia and its progression. People who have myopia, also known as nearsightedness, can see close-up objects clearly, but objects farther away are blurry. Myopia that begins in early childhood often worsens as the child grows. If these changes are too extreme, it can be hard to correct the blurriness with glasses or contact lenses and the risk of potentially blinding eye conditions rises, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, early cataracts and myopic maculopathy, a leading cause of blindness world-wide.

4 Wear your glasses.

While more research is required to understand why myopia is on the rise, new treatment options are available to slow the disease in children so the most devastating consequences of high myopia can be avoided. Visit www.eyesmart.org for more information on eye health.

—The American Academy of Ophthalmology

7Wear your shades. The sun’s rays can hurt your eyes. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to you should never 8

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Say no to smoking. Did you know that smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is the rest of your body? Smoking can put you at risk for some pretty serious eye issues, which can lead to blindness. 10T

Your glasses help you see better, especially when they’re clean and free of smudges. Talk to an adult about how to clean your glasses and how to store them when you’re not wearing them.

6Gear up. Playing your favorite sport? Using chemicals during science class? Mowing the lawn? Wear the right protection to keep your eyes safe. Many eye injuries can be prevented with better safety habits, such as using protective eyewear.

Give your eyes a break. Do you spend a lot of time looking at a computer, phone, or TV screen? Staring at any one thing for too long can tire your eyes. Give your eyes a rest with the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are easily spread from person to person. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type of conjunctivitis. This type of pink eye is very contagious and often spreads through schools and other crowded places. It usually causes burning, red eyes with a watery discharge. Viral conjunctivitis is usually caused by the same virus that causes runny nose and sore throat in people with the common cold.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is also very contagious. An infection from bacteria causes this form of pink eye. With bacterial conjunctivitis, you have sore, red eyes with a lot of sticky pus in the eye. Some bacterial infections, however, may cause little or no discharge. Sometimes the bacteria that cause pink eye are the same that cause strep throat. Allergic conjunctivitis is a type of pink eye that comes from an allergic reaction to pollen, animals, cigarette smoke, pool chlorine, car fumes or something

Ask!

alk about it. Does anyone in your family have issues with their eyes? Not sure? Ask! Talking about eye health with your family can help all of you stay healthy.

—National Eye Institute (NEI)

else in the environment. It is not contagious. Allergic pink eye makes your eyes very itchy, red and watery, and the eyelids may get puffy.

Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can be quite contagious. The most common ways to get the contagious form of pink eye include:

·Direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, usually through hand-to-eye contact.

·Spread of the infection from bacteria living in the person’s own nose and sinuses.

·Not cleaning contact lenses properly. Using poorly fitting contact lenses or decorative contacts are risks as well.

·Children are the people most likely to get pink eye from bacteria or viruses. This is because they are in close contact with so many others in school or day care centers. Also, they don’t practice good hygiene.

Visit www.aao.org/eye-health/ diseases/pink-eye-conjunctivitis to learn more.

—Kierstan Boyd writes for American Academy of Ophthalmology.

A 17-year-old high school student stayed up all night to finish his college applications and, in the morning, he looked in the mirror and noticed that his eyes were yellow. A 32-year-old woman developed a viral upper respiratory infection with a lowgrade temperature. On a routine visit to the doctor, her eyes were noted to be yellow. A 45-year-old man is seen by his doctor for a routine physical examination. His laboratory tests reveal an elevated bilirubin. Further testing shows no other abnormality other than a mildly elevated indirect bilirubin. A 23-year-old man returns from the gym after a heavy workout, looks in the mirror and notices that his eyes are yellow. What commonality do these people share? They all have jaundice (yellowing of the eyes) and they all are affected by a genetic disorder called Gilbert’s syndrome. Gilbert’s syndrome is a benign condition. It does not cause any harm. It is extremely common occurring in about five percent of our population. The syndrome is caused by a decreased level in the enzyme, glucuronyl transferase, which conjugates bilirubin.

THE SPECIALIST

David Bernstein, MD

It is an autosomal recessive, hereditary condition. Gilbert’s syndrome is not associated with any increased disease or mortality. This syndrome is usually diagnosed after puberty and is more common in men than in women. Affected individuals often come to medical attention after a fast, during an infection, after vigorous exercise or in any period of extreme stress as these circumstances can lead to decreased bilirubin conjugation and therefore an increase in indirect bilirubin levels. The

physical examination of these patients is usually normal except for some mild yellowness of the eyes. Laboratory tests other than an elevated bilirubin should all be normal.

There are no therapies needed for Gilbert’s syndrome as it is a

benign condition. Interestingly, some studies have suggested a decreased colon and rectal cancer risk in people with Gilbert’s. This, however, has not been proven. The good news here is that not all jaundice is concerning.

Gilbert’s Syndrome Is Common, Benign AFC Urgent Care Names New Director

American Family Care (AFC) recently named Dr. Victor Politi, MD, FACP, FACEP, medical director of AFC Urgent Care Long Island. Politi will spearhead AFC’s growth efforts across Long Island and will oversee health care services at all AFC Urgent Care centers.

“I am honored to join American Family Care and work alongside a tremendous team of dedicated healthcare professionals,” said Politi. “AFC is one of the region’s leading urgent care providers and I will work to advance and uphold the brand across Long Island, providing quality care and efficient medical attention.”

As a seasoned administrative leader with both long-term and broad-based knowledge of the

healthcare industry, Politi was previously president and chief executive officer of Nassau Health Care Corporation (NuHealth). NuHealth is a public benefit corporation, which operates Nassau County’s only public hospital.

Politi also served as the chairman of the executive committee of the NQP DSRIP PPS. Here, he organized the formation of and led Nassau County’s DSRIP Performing Provider System which is the fourth largest PPS in New York and includes all Nassau

David Bernstein, MD, MACG, FAASLD, AGAF, FACP, is a professor of medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the director of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Ambulatory Network-Long Island for NYU Langone Health.

County hospitals and two Queens County hospitals, affecting more than 450,000 Medicaid lives and generating $550 million in grant funding.

Politi holds various executive positions in the healthcare and medical industry. He is the medical director of the Physician Assistant Program at Touro University and Medical Director of the School of Allied Health Professions at St. John’s University.

AFC Urgent Care of Long Island has four full-service urgent care centers with locations in East Meadow, Farmingdale, West Islip and Patchogue. Visit www. afcurgentcare.com for more information.

—AFC Urgent Care of Long Island

Dr. Victor Politi AFC Urgent Care

25 Ways To Get Kids Moving At Home

BY CHRISTY HINKO chinko@antonmediagroup.com

The importance of kids’ fitness over the summer break cannot be overstated. With schools closed and children having more free time, it is crucial to encourage and prioritize physical activity during this period. Engaging in regular exercise and staying active offers numerous benefits that contribute to a child’s overall well-being and development.

Summer break often leads to a more sedentary lifestyle, with children spending extended hours indoors watching television, playing video games, or using electronic devices. This lack of physical activity can have adverse effects on their health. Regular exercise helps combat obesity, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances muscle strength and flexibility. It also helps maintain a healthy weight, which is especially important considering the rising rates of childhood obesity.

In addition to the physical benefits,

kids’ fitness during summer b reak promotes mental and emotional well-being. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Physical activity fosters better concentration, cognitive function, and overall brain development, which can positively impact academic performance when children return to school.

Engaging in outdoor activities and sports during summer break also provides valuable opportunities for social interaction and the development of important life skills. Team sports, for example, promote cooperation, communication, and teamwork, while also teaching children about discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship. Participating in physical activities with friends or family members helps build strong relationships and creates lasting memories.

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in encouraging and facilitating kids’ fitness over the summer break. They can organize family outings to parks, beaches, or hiking trails, enroll children in summer camps or sports programs, or simply set aside dedicated time for outdoor play. By prioritizing physical activity and instilling healthy habits during this break, parents can set their children on a path towards a lifetime of fitness and well-being.

Kids’ fitness during the summer break is of utmost importance. It not only helps combat sedentary behavior but also promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Encouraging children to stay active, engage in outdoor activities, and participate in sports not only benefits their health but also fosters important social and life skills. By prioritizing fitness during this break, parents and caregivers can empower children to lead active and healthy lives long after summer ends.

Here are 25 ideas, provided by the American Heart Association for getting kids to move more.

1. Run in place for 30 seconds

2. Dance party for one minute

3. Stand up and sit down 10 times

4. Read standing up

5. Hot lava! Keep a balloon in the air without touching the ground (make it harder by only using heads or elbows

6. Jumping Jacks

7. Do the hokey pokey

8. See how many squats you can do in 15 seconds

9. Stand up, touch your toes

10. Wall sit while reading

11. One-minute yoga

12. Stretch your hands high over your head

13. Arm circles forward for 30 seconds, arm circles backward for 30 seconds

14. 10 frog jumps

15. Standing mountain climbers for 30 seconds

16. Stand on one leg, put your hands up, put your hands out to the side

17. Five lunges on the right leg, five lunges on the left leg

18. Practice spelling, do a squat for every vowel

19. Run in place for 30 seconds, check your heart rate

20. Practice spelling by doing a jumping jack for each letter

21. 30-second plank

22. Practice math problems, do a jumping jack every time the answer is an even number

23. 20 leg lifts

24. Ball-toss spelling practice. Toss the ball and say a letter then toss the ball to someone else to say the next letter

25. High knees for 30 seconds

Mix and match some of these ideas for brief bursts of activity or by randomly selecting one from the list to complete each day.

Keto Is Most Popular Diet

New data reveals the most popular diet in New York with the ketogenic (keto) diet taking the top spot.

The research conducted by FitnessVolt analyzed Google data to determine which popular diets interest New York residents the most.

The ketogenic (keto) diet took the top spot in the findings. There are 46,113 average monthly searches for keto diet related search terms in New York, more than any other popular diet. The keto or ketogenic diet replaces a large portion of carbohydrates with fat and protein. Fat makes up most of the diet. The benefit here is that you cut back on a lot of carbs such as soda and white bread.

The second most popular diet in New York is the Mediterranean diet. The diet has 33,371 average monthly searches for terms related to a Mediterranean diet within the state. Based on foods from the Mediterranean such as whole grains, fruits, nuts and seeds, the benefits of a Mediterranean diet, according to many studies, include reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and increased lifespan.

In third place is the DASH diet with an average of 8,032 monthly searches being made in New York.

Meaning ‘Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension’, the aim of the diet is to prevent and control hypertension. The diet doesn’t allow alcohol, added sodium and foods that are high in saturated fats, among others.

Paleo ranks fourth with 7,801 average monthly searches being made for the diet in New York. Otherwise known as the ‘caveman’ diet, the diet consists of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs, nuts and seeds. The paleo diet has helped in lowering blood pressure, aiding weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.

—FitnessVolt (www.fitnessvolt.com)

Snack Better This Summer

BY CHRISTY HINKO chinko@antonmediagroup.com

Eating healthy snacks this summer is a great way to stay refreshed, nourished and energized while enjoying the season. With an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables available, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Snacking on these wholesome foods can help you maintain a balanced diet and support your overall well-being.

Opt for refreshing snacks like watermelon, berries, and cucumbers to stay hydrated and cool during the hot summer days. These fruits and vegetables are not only low in calories but also packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They provide a natural sweetness and are a great alternative to sugary treats.

Incorporating protein-rich snacks like Greek yogurt, hummus or mixed nuts can help keep you full and satisfied between meals. These snacks provide a good balance of macronutrients and can help stabilize

blood sugar levels, keeping your energy levels steady throughout the day.

Another healthy snacking option is homemade smoothies or fruit popsicles. Blend your favorite fruits with a base like almond milk or yogurt for a refreshing and nutritious treat. You can also experiment with adding leafy greens like spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value.

Remember to plan ahead and pack your snacks when heading out for summer activities. By having healthy options readily available, you can avoid reaching for processed snacks or fast food when hunger strikes.

Embracing healthy snacking habits this summer not only supports your physical health but also enhances your overall enjoyment of the season. So, grab a juicy piece of fruit or whip up a nutritious snack, and savor the flavors of summer while nourishing your body.