Health & Wellness - June 2023

June Special Section

Revolutionize your fitness and redefine aging with The Exercise Coach!

Brought to you by – The Exercise Coach®

Are you ready to experience a groundbreaking approach to fitness that not only transforms your workouts but also challenges the way you age? The Exercise Coach uniquely blends the focus and support of a coach with stateof-the-art Exerbotics technology, delivering an efficient, full-body workout in just 20 minutes.

At The Exercise Coach, we meticulously craft workouts tailored to your individual needs and goals. Our exclusive strength training machines intelligently adapt to your fitness level, ensuring safe, enjoyable, and highly effective workout sessions. This advanced technology empowers you to achieve maximum

results in minimal time while promoting healthy aging.

The essence of The Exercise Coach experience lies in our exceptional Coaches. Our dedicated trainers provide unwavering support, motivation, and guidance, helping you unlock your full potential and conquer your fitness goals. Together, we’ll challenge the aging process and embrace a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle.

Break free from one-size-fitsall fitness approaches. Choose The Exercise Coach and tap into the transformative power of Exerbotics. We invite you to visit us and experience firsthand our innovative approach to aging and fitness.

Take the first step today – your first two sessions are on us! Call or text 770-870-1750 to begin your extraordinary fitness adventure.

Flying free of skin cancer

Brought to You by - Brent Taylor, MD, Premiere Dermatology and

Mohs Surgery of Atlanta

In the last month, two airline pilots have come to see me for suspicious spots that proved to be invasive malignant melanomas. As an instrument-rated recreational pilot myself, I sympathize and understand that the stakes involved for commercial pilots are not only health and lifespan but also work and livelihood. Pilots are sometimes wary of physicians, but it is critically important for pilots and non-pilots alike to know that early diagnosis is the best way to keep your wings and your life.

The FAA is very strict with pilots’ health. Regular health examinations with an FAA flight examiner are required of all pilots. For pilots over the age of 40 acting as “pilot in command” of a commercial airline flight, a medical certificate must be renewed every 6 months by means of a thorough flight physical. The running joke among physicians who take care of pilots is that non-pilots come in with a list of ten maladies and complaints whereas pilots respond to every question about possible illnesses with single word answers ranging from “nope” to “never.” Most jokes have a grain of truth. Pilots do not want an illness on their medical record that might result in an inability to fly.

Sometimes, you can make a case for someone trying to fix an illness without a physician’s help. For example, someone at the edge of type II diabetes might restore his or her own health with disciplined diet and exercise and be healthy by the time medical certificate renewal comes around.

Not so with melanoma. Don’t delay. Don’t try to fix it yourself. If a spot is changing, get that spot checked out! Melanoma continues to grow as long as it is left in place. The single most important feature of a melanoma is how deep it has grown. A melanoma that is less than 0.80mm is generally considered “good” with a low risk of having spread to other parts of the body.

The FAA draws the line in the sand for melanomas at 0.75mm. Melanomas

less than 0.75mm deep need only documentation of no clinical signs of metastatic disease and complete removal with clear and appropriate margins. Then, the flight examiner can issue the medical certificate to allow a pilot to keep on flying. This means that a simple excision by a dermatologist under local anesthesia for a shallow melanoma in almost all cases allows a pilot to keep his or her ability to fly. Melanomas deeper than 0.80 mm often require lymph node biopsies under general anesthesia, imaging such as MRI and/or PET/ CT scans. Even then, permission to fly is not guaranteed. Instead, all documents must be submitted to the FAA for consideration of permission to continue flying which is called “Special Issuance Authorization.” It wouldn’t be called “Special” if it were routine and for everyone.

Both pilots who came to me recently with melanomas had noticed the spot changing for a few months, and both cases had measured depths of 0.7mm. Talk about cutting it close! Just a little more growth and those pilots might have lost their medical certificate. Just as importantly, a little more growth would have pushed them into a higher risk category with a much higher chance that the melanomas could have spread.

In my practice, I have so far always been able to honor the policy that a patient who is worried about a single spot that is changing and could be a melanoma can be added onto my schedule within a day for a “spot check” even if my schedule is fully booked. We might not have time to complete a full body skin exam at an overbooked appointment, but I never want scheduling problems to be the reason that a melanoma diagnosis is delayed. Likewise, I typically work from 7am to 5pm but add on melanoma excisions at 6:30am or 5pm to make sure patients are treated as quickly as possible.

For so many reasons, people are afraid to go to the doctor, but in the case of dermatology, it is in one’s interest to seek care. Getting that suspicious or changing spot checked out should be a priority. Even if your job isn’t on the line, early detection of skin cancer can save your life.

Team up with Wellstar to prevent these men’s health issues

Brought to you byWellstar

If you’re a sports fan, you’re probably glued to every game, rooting for your team and analyzing every play. But are you as vigilant with your own health?

In addition to knowing your health stats—those important numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar — you should also watch for health conditions that more commonly impact men.

An annual physical gives you the opportunity to ask your provider questions about your health, and you’ll get a few quick, crucial health screenings that can catch issues

early or put you on track for staying well.

“Men need to check in with a doctor at least once a year for their annual physical,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Stephen Cox. “It’s better to be proactive with your health, find issues early and prevent problems before they start.”

Take action against these conditions

Some illnesses are more likely to affect men than women, so men should be especially mindful about taking steps to prevent these health concerns:

• Cardiac issues. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. About 1 in 13 white men, 1 in 14 Black men and 1 in 17 Hispanic men have coronary heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Knowing your stats like blood pressure and cholesterol can help you assess your risk, and your

Wellstar provider will collaborate with you on a personalized heart health plan.

• Lung cancer. Men are slightly more likely to get lung cancer — the lifetime risk for men is 1 in 16, while it is 1 in 17 for women, according to the American Cancer Society. Black men are about 12% more likely to develop lung cancer compared to white men. Patients can decrease their risk of lung cancer by avoiding smoking.

• Parkinson’s disease. Men are more likely than women to have Parkinson’s disease. Neurologists and neurosurgeons at Wellstar are experts in helping patients manage this condition.

• Kidney stones. The lifetime risk of kidney stones is about 19% in men and 9% in women, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Staying hydrated can help prevent kidney stones.

• Prostate cancer. While all men are at risk for prostate cancer,

Black men are more likely to get prostate cancer and are more commonly affected at younger ages. Men who are 50 or older should ask their doctor about testing, and Black men should discuss testing with their provider at age 45. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you should also consider screenings at a younger age, and your provider will discuss options with you.

According to Wellstar Urologist Dr. Scott Miller, men need to stay active and stay away from smoking. He also noted a few lifestyle changes that are sometimes overlooked can make a difference in how you feel. “What’s often neglected is a full and consistent night’s sleep,” Dr. Miller said. “And keep stress under control — too much stress can negatively impact our immune systems.”

To find a primary care provider, call (770) 956-7827 or schedule online at wellstar.org.

Hear better. Think sharper.

Brought to you by - Newtown Hearing Center

The research is clear: The worse your hearing is, the less you participate in the little things that make life so enjoyable.1,2 From hearing the waves roll in during a seaside stroll to a conversation over dinner with friends, decreased ability to hear decreases your ability to participate.

What’s worse, that decrease in participation can lead to decreased cognitive skills, even to the point of dementia.

The good news? It’s all found in the remarkable WIDEX MOMENT hearing aid, offered at Newtown Hearing Center. In fact, 90% of people wearing WIDEX MOMENT are satisfied with their ability to participate in everyday life. 3,4

Hear better. Think sharper. Our brains were designed to hear. So much

so, in fact, that when our hearing deteriorates, our brains go into overdrive, striving to ‘fill in the gaps’ and help us fully engage. Hearing aids can help, but they can also produce sound that seems artificial or overly processed, leaving our brains, once again, scrambling to help us stay connected. WIDEX MOMENT, on the other hand, delivers clearer, more natural sound to your ear — and your brain. It’s a pure spectrum of the sounds you’ve always remembered, in a way you’ve always remembered hearing them. Now, you can participate in what’s happening, instead of worrying about what you’re missing.

Better hearing leads to better living. To see how this sound quality can improve your life, you may contact Newtown Hearing Center at 470-2942116 or request an appointment at www. newtownhearing.com.

A beautiful smile begins with healthy gums

Brought to you by – Dr. Bradley Hepler and Dr. Jeffrey Priluck, The Atlanta Center for Dental

Health

A beautiful smile is often associated with healthy teeth, but the condition of your gums plays an equally vital role in achieving a captivating smile. Healthy gums provide a solid foundation for your teeth and improve the appearance of your smile. The gingiva (your gums) around your teeth is like the frame around a picture. If you’re looking to improve your appearance, let me share some valuable insights and tips to achieve a healthier, more attractive smile.

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene. The foundation of a healthy, attractive smile starts with a robust oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste removes the plaque that causes gum disease. Flossing daily ensures that you clean the areas between your teeth and along the gumline, where plaque can accumulate.

2. Be Mindful of Your Diet. A nutritious diet is essential for healthy gums. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins C and D, as well as antioxidants, to support gum health and reduce inflammation. Eat fresh fruits,

vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide the necessary nutrients for good health. Minimize sugary snacks and beverages, as they contribute to gum problems and tooth decay.

3. Quit Smoking or Vaping. Nicotine is detrimental to your oral health and the health of your whole body. It can cause discoloration, inflammation, and periodontitis (gum disease). Quitting smoking will improve the health of your gums and the esthetics of your smile.

4. Seek Professional Dental Care. Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for maintaining healthy gums. Dental professionals can detect early signs of gum disease or other oral health issues and provide appropriate restorative and preventive treatments. Professional teeth cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthier gums and a brighter smile. Inquire about cosmetic dentistry options like gum contouring or gum grafting to address specific esthetic concerns.

5. Protect Your Teeth and Gums. Avoid using your teeth as tools to open things or tear packages. If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a custom fitted mouthguard to prevent excessive pressure on your teeth and gums. While participating in physical

activities or sports, make sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums from injury.

Improving the appearance of your gums is not only beneficial for your overall oral health, but also enhances your smile’s esthetic appeal. By following a consistent oral hygiene routine, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle, and seeking professional care, you can achieve healthier gums, a more confident smile and improved well-being.

“Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life.” -Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic

Dr. Bradley Hepler, Dr. Jeffrey Priluck and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide the most modern advances in cosmetic dentistry. Experience immediate results with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover which of these options is best for you, please call us at 770-992-2236. Dr. Hepler and Dr. Priluck are highly trained and certified to provide you with the latest and best techniques to allow you to achieve your cosmetic and restorative goals.

in Integrative Oncology

June is National Cancer Survivor Month

Brought to you by - Jonathan Stegall, MD

This month, we celebrate cancer survivors as part of National Cancer Survivor Month. For those of you who are reading this who are cancer survivors, congratulations! Surviving a cancer diagnosis is a significant accomplishment.

Despite the media attention given to the number of people diagnosed with cancer, as well as those who die

from cancer, I believe we should also focus on cancer survivorship. It is estimated that there are roughly 17 million cancer survivors in the United States. Due to significant advances in research and education, many people who are diagnosed with cancer are beating the disease.

I am very proud of the fact that I have many cancer survivors in my oncology practice. I can attest to the significant amount of hard work on the part of patients and their families,

as well as medical personnel. It truly takes a team of dedicated people to achieve that level of success, and my staff and I are honored to join our patients in their cancer journeys.

If you are a cancer survivor, keep up the good work! Stay motivated in your quest to keep cancer at bay. For cutting edge cancer information, please check out cancersecrets.com to learn more about my bestselling book, award-winning podcast, and online cancer course.

The dirty truth about Queen Elizabeth’s dental care

Brought to you by - Roswell Dental Care

Sugar was first imported to England in the 13th century. Because sugar was such an expensive commodity, many peasants during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign in 16th century England would spend their entire lives without ever tasting sugar.

Queen Elizabeth I was obsessed with all thing’s luxury. This included not only eating a high sugar diet, and by using “Tudor Toothpaste.” This toothpaste was favored by the Queen, and she insisted upon its use whenever she would rarely polish her teeth.

By her fifties, Queen Elizabeth I had black, decayed teeth, as well as several missing teeth. Her Highness was the “it” girl of her time. She was the embodiment of fashion and grace not only in the eyes of upper-class society, but everyone. So, when the Queen’s teeth turned black, the rest of upper-class society made black teeth a symbol of beauty and wealth. The blacker your teeth were, the richer you were. Those who were not wealthy enough to rot their teeth with sugar would find ways to color their teeth black, such as using soot, to be included in this sugar-

eating fad.

Thankfully, today we have several innovations, including the toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. These modern tools have allowed sparkly, white, and clean teeth to be considered healthy and beautiful.

Roswell Dental Care was designated ”BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta for 7 years running, and we have been serving patients in this community for over 40 years. As your cosmetic and family dentists, Drs. Hood and Remaley give your comfort and peace of mind top priority. We offer a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services for your family and will thoroughly explain all your options during your private consultation. We will assure you feel confident in the solution you choose before beginning any treatment. For enhanced comfort during treatment, we offer conscious sedation including FREE nitrous oxide for anxious patients. You can rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding on many levels. We offer a COMPLIMENTARY smile makeover consultation. Give our office a call at (470) 288-1152 to schedule your private smile consultation.

The path to reconciliation

“I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.” These words are often cited as facilitating the process of forgiveness. While helpful, they are woefully inadequate when attempting a reconciliation in the face of serious wounding and betrayal, such as infidelity and/or abuse.

When an individual has been betrayed, their world turns upside down, their trust in their betrayer is shattered, and they are plagued with grief, pain, confusion, self-doubts, longings, and lots of questions about how something so terrible could have happened to them. Forgiveness is a mere starting point on the long journey toward healing.

A huge gulf exists between forgiveness and reconciliation, bridged only by rebuilding trust. Trust must be re-established prior to reconciliation, which can only be done when the betrayer acknowledges to their partner how they understand their actions affected their partner’s life (body, mind, emotions, spirit, their understanding of trust, relationships, intimacy, and even their own self-worth), and they must express a genuine sense of devastation at having put their partner through that pain. Only then can reconciliation begin. If you have experienced the trauma of infidelity or abuse, you don't have to struggle alone. At The Summit, many of our counselors specialize in working with trauma survivors, helping them heal and rebuild their lives. Learn more about our services at summitcounseling. org!

Brought to you by - Dr. Alice Hoag, Licensed Professional Counselor and Staff Supervisor at Summit Counseling Center

Pain Relieving Laser Therapy

Brought to you by - Johns Creek Physical Therapy

Having treated hundreds of patients over the past 6 years with Pain Relieving Laser Therapy, it’s not hard for me to appreciate how well it works. But if you’ve never tried it, trust me when I tell you…. you’re missing out!

Several years ago, John Deere ran a promotion on their zero turn lawn mowers. They used a fun tag line, “It’s not how fast you mow, it’s how well you mow FAST!” I wish I could come up with a similar tag line for Pain Relieving Laser Therapy because it can deliver pain relief in just a few minutes. It’s not uncommon for patients to have their pain be reduced by 50% on the first treatment.

How does it work? Pain Relieving Laser Therapy uses light energy to promote healing and reduce pain. Laser Therapy is FDA cleared to treat pain, inflammation, arthritis, and muscle spasms and is a great alternative to medications and injections.

The most common thing we hear after someone tries it for the first

time is “WOW!” I’m sure if you are just reading this article, you are probably thinking, “yeah, RIGHT??!! Nothing works that fast!” But don’t

take my word for it, call our office today and schedule your FREE TRIAL. The only thing you have to lose is your pain!

How to Lose Weight with Semaglutide

Brought to you by - Hydralive Milton

Semaglutide has gained popularity for its potential to aid in weight loss. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

Semaglutide works by:

• Suppressing appetite: It helps you feel full faster, which can lead to a reduced calorie intake.

• Slowing down gastric emptying: This means that the food you eat stays in your stomach for a longer time, helping you feel full for longer periods.

• Improving insulin sensitivity: This can help improve blood sugar control, which is essential for weight management.

When you are ready to get started, a medical consultation is performed with our physician assistant or nurse practitioner. They will review your present health situation and determine your eligibility for Semaglutide. From there, they will prescribe Semaglutide and coach you along your weight loss journey. If prescribed, you can expect to follow these steps:

• Start with a low dose: Your will start on a low dose of Semaglutide to minimize side effects.

• Gradually increase the dose: Your dose will increase over time to reach the most effective dose for weight loss.

• Combined with a healthy lifestyle: Semaglutide can be a helpful tool for weight loss, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

• Monitor your progress: Keep track of your weight loss, blood sugar levels and any side effects. Report any concerns to our team.

At Hydralive Therapy, we take a holistic approach to wellness. We understand Semaglutide can be extremely beneficial across a wide spectrum of people with obesity, but we also believe it is important to use this

medication in conjunction with lifestyle changes. Remember, weight loss is a journey, and finding the right approach for you may take time and patience. If you’re living with obesity or related medical conditions and you think Semaglutide might be a viable choice for shedding excess weight, get started today by contacting Hydralive Therapy Milton at (470) 359-4815. We’re ready to help you succeed!

The Georgia Politics Podcast focuses on all things under the gold dome. Show host Preston Thompson covers the most noteworthy updates to the legislative session of Georgia’s House of Representatives and State Senate.