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SUMMER 2012 · ISSUE 36
HOT TOPIC:
Barbecue Safety
The Facts About
Cataracts
Pay Attention to Joint Pain
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SUMMER 2012 · ISSUE 36
“I’m doing this!” Are you ready to change your life? Bariatric surgery at Arnot Health could be the answer. Don’t let conditions like hypertension, diabetes, depression, sleep apnea and others stand between you and the life you want. If you’ve struggled with your weight and feel surgery may be your best option, it’s time to learn about Arnot Health’s services. Call 607-734-2695 for a consultation today, or visit www.arnothealth.org/bariatricsurgery for more information.
Table of Contents: Ask the Pediatrician ∙ 3 Hot Topic ∙ 4 Out and About ∙ 5 Joint Pain ∙ 6 Laser Gum Surgery ∙ 8 Summertime Itch ∙ 9 Summer Salads ∙ 9 Cataracts ∙ 10 Edible Weeds ∙ 11 Healthier Weekend ∙ 12 Keep Kids Moving ∙ 13 Dental Disease in Pets ∙ 14 Spicy Peppers ∙ 15 Golf is Good for You ∙ 16 Chocolate Milk ∙ 16 Family Focus ∙ 17 Healthy Recipe ∙ 18 Water Cooler Chat ∙ 18 Publisher/Editor Chris Coyne Staff Writers Chris Coyne Holly A. Hamilton Lisa M. Mayers Ashley Cook Stephanie Blodgett Carol Boughner Annie Yager Photographer Steve Appel Designer Howard Mitsakos Advertising Sales Jim Blodgett Ashley Camarda Annie Yager Printer Carr Printing, Inc. Healthy Life Magazine is a Division of Ad Elements, LLC 607.238.1560 To contact Healthy Life Magazine, email: hlm@adelements.net
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The information contained in Healthy Life Magazine is intended to educate and inform the local population about a variety of medical & health topics. The information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. This publication is not intended as medical, legal or regulatory advice. Healthy Life Magazine and its affiliates disclaim all liability arising from or related information contained in this publication.
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Ask the Pediatrician
Toxic Toys A Parent’s Top Concern by Annie Yager
T
heir purpose is to engage children and help them learn and grow, but if parents aren’t vigilant, toys can cause more harm than good. Many parents are already cautious about purchasing toys that could pose a choking hazard, but there are other hidden dangers in our children’s playthings that we may overlook; chief among them, the toxic chemicals in some plastics, and harmful lead paint. “Parents still need to be concerned about protecting their children from toys that contain lead paint,” says Dr Azmat Saeed, an Endicott Pediatrician. As of 2009, federal law does require that U.S. toymakers, as well as importers, comply with a stricter set of safety rules as well as the ban on lead. But there are a lot of items still in use by families that may not meet the standard and could pose a risk. When choosing toys for their tots, parents should be careful about buying any toys from consignment stores. Older toys may not have been manufactured under the same safety standards as new ones. A recent article in Healthy Life refers to a chemical compound called bisphenol A (BPA), used in the manufacturing of countless plastic products and found to be harmful to our health. That same compound can be found in some children’s toys, plates, sippy cups and more. Dr. Saeed says one of the most important things you can do is pay attention to your child. “Parents know their children best,” he explains. “Be on the lookout for certain symptoms such as nausea, lethargy, vomiting, stagnant weight and even loss of appetite – all of which can be symptoms of exposure to lead or other toxins.” If you think your child has been exposed, be sure to bring the suspected toy with you when visiting your pediatrician. When choosing toys, parents should look for labels that read, “Nontoxic.” When purchasing art supplies like paints or crayons, they can look for this designation: “ASTM D-4236,” which means the product has been tested and approved by a boardcertified toxicologist. And although it may sound appealing to get a full bag of old toys from your great aunt or uncle, newer can be better. Newer toys meet stricter safety rules before they are made available to stores; therefore they pose less of a threat to children. Some of the more obvious precautions parents should take when purchasing toys include buying ageappropriate toys, checking labels and avoiding small toys that become a choking hazard for children. Some other toys that may be worth avoiding are: HLM • 3
• Any type of toy guns that shoot plastic darts, foam balls, etc. Not only are they a choking hazard but they can also cause eye injuries. • Toys made of fabric that do not say flame resistant or flame retardant. • Toys that can be pulled/taken apart easily like wheels, buttons or even batteries that don’t have a case secured with screws. • Loud toys which can be unsafe for a child’s hearing. When a child is exposed to loud toys, frequently it can cause damage to their hearing. “Most importantly, parents need to remain engaged with their children,” Dr Saeed suggests. “If you pay attention, you’ll notice potentially hazardous playthings, as well as changes in behavior that could be a sign of a larger problem.” Parents and caregivers should discuss any concerns they have with their pediatrician. In addition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has published “Which Toy for Which Child: A Consumer’s Guide for Selecting Suitable Toys (Available for “Ages birth through 5” and “Ages 5 through Twelve”).” This information is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for people seeking guidance on the appropriateness of various toys. Contributor Azmat Saeed, MD, 609 East Main Street, Endicott, NY
Hot Topic!
Barbecue Food Safety
Summertime is here and so is barbecue season! Did you know that food poisoning cases double during the summer? Although this is true, there are many ways that you can avoid it. You don’t have to give up outdoor grilling, but you can take steps to ensure that you and your family are food safe! When cooking any type of meat on a barbecue such as burgers, steak, sausages or poultry, always be sure to:
• Let the coals heat up adequately until they are glowing red! This ensures that the cooking surface is hot enough • Properly thaw frozen meat before you begin cooking • Turn meat regularly so that it cooks evenly • Always wash your hands after touching raw meat • Never use sauce or marinade on cooked food if it has already been used with raw meat A lot of times, meat is charred on the outer layer which gives the illusion that it is fully cooked. Be sure to cut it at the thickest part; there should be no pink on the inside if you are cooking chicken or pork, but steak and burgers are at your discretion. Lastly, don’t forget about fire hazards… your grill should not be close to any plants or trees that would easily catch fire and at least six to ten feet from any building. Happy Barbecuing!
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Out & About in the Southern Tier! There’s always something fun and interesting going on in our region! Here are a few events to put on your calendar this spring!
Feast with the Beasts August 22, 2012
The 21st annual Feast with the Beasts is a family-fun dinner held throughout the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park. The event will feature local restaurants and wineries as well as live entertainment and art exhibits! The Feast With The Beasts is limited to 500 guests, so save your spot by calling 607-724-5461!
Levene Gouldin & Thompson Tennis Challenger July 14 - July 22, 2012
This year will mark the 19th Annual Tennis Challenger event sponsored by LG&T. The event is held at Recreation Park in Binghamton and is the only men’s professional tennis event in Upstate New York. It is 9 days of USTA Men’s Circuit Pro Tennis and fun for all ages! For more information, visit www.binghamtonchallenger.com.
Two Rivers Fine Arts & Crafts Festival September 22 - 23, 2012
A festival featuring stunning original works from regional artists, plus great food, music and plenty of fun for all! The Festival takes place at Roberson Museum on Front Street in Binghamton, and this anticipated event is held outdoors rain or shine. There will be over 40 artist and food vendors and even a special “kids-zone area.” Visit www.roberson.org for more information!
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The Broome County Humane Society’s Annual Duck Derby August 11, 2012 This event, an annual fundraiser held by the Broome County Humane Society, takes place behind the Holiday Inn Arena in downtown Binghamton. Thousands of little yellow rubber ducks will splash into the Chenango River and race to the finish line. It’s a great event or the whole family, featuring great food, games and live entertainment! For more information on the event or to purchase a duck, visit www.duckrace.com/binghamton!
Pay Attention to
Joint Pain
by Lisa M. Mayers
O
h the aches and pains of aging! You might find yourself taking the stairs a little slower, or stiff after sitting for a while. Maybe you’ve given up running in favor of walking, or kick boxing in favor of yoga. Perhaps, the pain in your hips and knees is getting serious enough that you’re beginning to worry. What should you do? When should you see a doctor? According to Dr. William Bishop, Orthopedic Surgeon and Medical Director of Arnot Health Human Motion Institute, degenerative changes in our joints – and the aches and pains that accompany them – is a normal part of the aging process. “As we age our bodies begin breaking down. There is no way to prevent that, interrupt or intervene in the process, and certainly no way to reverse it, despite the many claims out there,” says Dr. Bishop. “Once symptoms develop, the real question is how can I best live with it.” There are many factors that can impact how quickly you begin to notice the changes in your joints, as well as how quickly those changes progress, and how it affects your quality of life. Family history, any congenital abnormalities, lifestyle, and obesity all play a role in joint health. For instance, an athlete who has had repeated injuries to their knees may have earlier and more severe degeneration of the joint. Structural abnormalities at birth, such as hip dysplasia, change body mechanics and create excessive wear on joints and extra pounds on any frame speeds up the process. “Start up stiffness – the stiffness you feel in your joints after sitting for a while, or when you first get up in the morning – as well as mild pain or discomfort can usually be managed with conservative care such as medication,” says Dr. Bishop. As degenerative changes progress further however, arthritis can develop. Degenerative arthritis, also called osteoarthritis, is inflammation of the joint caused by the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the cushion between the bones of your joints. Without it, bones rub against each other limiting movement and causing pain, due to the bone-on-bone friction. “Degenerative arthritis is progressive and can be very limiting,” explains Dr. Bishop. “Once a person finds that conservative measures aren’t helping and their quality of life has been noticeably altered, it’s usually time to see an orthopedic specialist and discuss other options.” Joint replacement surgery is among the options to consider for hips, knees, and shoulders that have degenerated to the point of limiting normal activities due to pain and swelling, and because of advances, people are considering the surgery at a much younger age than ever before. “When a patient has exhausted conservative measures and their quality of life is diminished to the point that they are willing to accept the risks, joint replacement surgery can offer profound relief,” explains Dr. Bishop. “The expectation of success is that the patient will be able to resume all their usual activities, including recreational sports, without pain.” Joint replacement surgery has come a long way since it first began in the early 1960’s – both in terms of technique, and the quality of the prosthetics used. While it is still major surgery, it no longer requires long stays in the hospital. Most patients are admitted the day of surgery and are able to go home on the first or second day after surgery.
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Patients having hip and shoulder replacement surgery often report an almost immediate relief from the pain. The complexity of the knee joint can result in a slightly longer recovery period, but by three months post-surgery, most patients can expect an 80% improvement, with 100% improvement expected at the one year mark. Early in the surgery’s history, younger patients were not considered appropriate due to concerns about the lifespan of the prosthetics. Having the surgery at 50 or 60 years old, might mean a second surgery called a “revision” to replace the failing prosthesis. The cement that holds the prosthetic in place was also a concern. Failing of the cement frequently would lead to shifting and instability of the joint. But now, new materials are being used to give prosthetics a longer, more durable lifespan and cement is often augmented, or even being replaced altogether, using bone in-growth – a technique where bone is encouraged to grow into the prosthetic, securing it in place naturally.
“It’s like giving a set of tires to a kid with a new Camaro, versus your grandmother,” quips Dr. Bishop. “They will certainly wear differently.” When you do begin considering your options for managing joint pain and stiffness, be sure to choose your doctor wisely. Learn all you can about the types of procedures available, the risks and the benefits. Talk to them about their success rate and what they consider a successful outcome. Remember that even the best surgeon is only part of the equation. Patients who are compliant with rehabilitation instructions after surgery gain the most benefit from it – and that includes the instructions for exercise as well as the limitations while healing. Knowing when the time is right for joint replacement surgery is a very personal decision, but if and when that time comes for you, there is hope for a continued active lifestyle without the pain.
How long a prosthetic joint will last is not just about the materials though. Use determines wear as well. Previously, joint replacement was most commonly done in older patients with the expectation that it would relieve pain and help them get around more easily. Now, baby boomers are having the surgery earlier, with higher expectations for their activity level after surgery including a return to recreational sports. Contributor William Bishop, MD, Medical Director , Arnot Health Human Motion Institute, Elmira, NY
Same day appointments are available. All locations are accepting new patients!
uhs.net HLM • 7
UHS Primary Care The members of our medical teams work together to provide you and your family with high quality family medicine. Our providers are well known in the community and offer patient-centered care for people of all ages, including children, adolescents and adults. With more than 30 locations, we’re never more than minutes away. Visit www.uhs.net for a listing of locations.
Treating Gum Disease with a Laser You might have gum disease and not even know it. Periodontal gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support our teeth, caused by common mouth bacteria. It’s usually painless and slow to develop. Three out of four adults will have some form of the disease and it’s the number one cause of tooth loss. Healthy Life talked to area dentist Dr. C. Michael Sostowski of Vestal about the dangers of periodontal disease and the latest treatment technology. There are many causes of periodontal disease, including smoking, crowded teeth, certain medications, and heredity, among others. Dr. Sostowski pointed out that periodontal disease can not only result in tooth loss, there are other serious health risks as well. “Bacteria from gum disease gets into your bloodstream and increases the risk of heart disease, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, some cancers and other conditions”. So, it’s imperative to address the condition once it’s diagnosed. In the past, a patient with periodontal disease would undergo deep scaling and root planning and, in moderate and severe cases, surgery with a scalpel, sutures and an extended recovery time. Now Dr. Sostowski offers a much simpler, faster and less painful option for treating gum disease, it’s called LANAP and its revolutionizing treatment the way LASIK has revolutionized eye surgery. The LANAP protocol is a laser assisted procedure that only removes the diseased tissue, unlike traditional surgery, with no cutting, less
bleeding and very little recovery time. “The laser kills all the bacteria, then a clot is formed sealing the wound so the body can heal naturally, regenerating bone and tissue,” said Dr. Sostowski. If you’re not sure if you have gum disease, there are signs. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, if you’ve got bad breath and your gums are red, swollen or tender, or if someone in your family has had gum disease; consult a qualified dentist for an examination. The earlier you address the issue, the better chance you’ll have of maintaining good oral health. The laser tool and the LANAP protocol have allowed Dr. Sostowski to treat more patients with periodontal disease more effectively. “So many people out there need help but are downright scared of gum surgery” said the doctor “this procedure is a better way!” Contributor C. Michael Sostowski, DDS, 1550 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal, NY
A Flippy Floppy! You might have gum disease and not even know it. Periodontal gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support our teeth, caused by common mouth bacteria. It’s usually painless and slow to develop. Three out of four adults will have some form of the disease and it’s the number one cause of tooth loss. Healthy Life talked to area dentist Dr. C. Michael Sostowski of Vestal about the dangers of periodontal disease and the latest treatment technology.
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HEALTHY SUMMER
SALADS! WATERMELON FETA SALAD COOL CUCUMBER TOMATO SALAD 2 medium tomatoes, sliced and quartered
1 3 lb. wedge of seedless watermelon, or half of a seedless miniature watermelon
AVOCADO PINEAPPLE SALAD 1 1/2 cups cucumbers peeled, seeded, and cubed 1/2 cup chopped red onion
BLUEBERRY WALNUT SALAD
1 cup red and green grapes, halved
2 tablespoons chopped serrano pepper
3/4 cup feta cheese
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 (10 ounce) package mixed salad greens
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 pint fresh blueberries
1 teaspoon salt
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup walnuts
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tbsp champagne vinegar
2 1/2 cups pineapple, peeled and cut into 1/2 - inch dice
1/3 cup cider vinegar
2 tbsp chopped mint leaves, plus extra for serving
2 avocado - peeled, pitted and diced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced 4 green onions, chopped
1 cup water
The Summertime Itch! Nothing says ‘summer’ like a mosquito bite. Mosquitos land on your skin because they are attracted to your heat, scent and even perspiration. The bump and the itch left behind are caused by the saliva and proteins that were emitted from the mosquito. Try your best to not scratch the bite! Try mild soap, warm water and pat dry with a soft towel. If you find that the itch is just too overwhelming not to scratch, you can try a few different things… A homemade remedy consisting of two parts baking soda and one part water helps to take away that itchy sensation. A basic ice pack can do the trick; or even Aloe Vera gel. The cool from the gel alleviates any itchy feeling you might have and forms a protective layer on the bite to reduce infection, and scratching mosquito bites can lead to infection. The best way to avoid bites is to take preventative steps. If it’s not too hot out, try to wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts while outdoors. Apply repellent, and if you’re outside for a long time make sure to reapply because bug spray wears off. Don’t let these mosquitos take a bite of your summer fun!
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1/2 cup raspberry vinaigrette salad dressing
A Clear Solution for Cataracts by Annie Yager
Many of us are familiar with the term cataract…but do you really know what it is? “A cataract is the clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye that occurs frequently in patients over the age of 60,” says Dr. Daniel Sambursky of The Laser Eye Center of the Southern Tier. “The clouding of the lens blocks light to the eye and results in blurred or distorted vision.” A lens inside of the eye is very similar to that of a camera lens, focusing light on to the retina and it allows for us to see clearly close up and far away. The lens is made up of mostly of water and protein and as we age, some of the protein clumps together and starts to cloud a small area which grows after time and results in blurred vision. Typically, as individuals approach their fifties they start developing minor changes in their lens but as they reach 60-70 years of age, visual changes tend to worsen. Dr. Sambursky says that nearly 70% of adults, by the age of 75 will have developed cataracts. Although cataracts are mostly caused by the normal aging of the human lens, genetics, nutrition and even specific types of medication may increase the chances of a person developing them. So, if they are a common result of the aging process, and 70% of adults get cataracts what can we do to fix them? There is
a new cataract procedure known as the Intraocular Lens Implant. The surgery usually takes between 6-8 minutes and is virtually painless. To compensate for the removal of the eye’s natural lens, an intra-ocular (IOL) is then implanted. For this procedure, Dr. Sambursky uses topical eye drops that numb the eye instead of an injections so that patients do not need to wear a patch and they can resume their normal activities right away. What used to be a much more invasive process, can now be performed in minutes and many who in the past would have lived with a cataract—and the loss of vision that it brought—now have a much less daunting option to protect and prolong their vision. A once cloudy future can now be clear! Contributor Daniel Sambursky, M.D., F.A.C.S., Ophthalmic Associates of the Southern Tier,
Johnson City, NY
Avoiding Summer Health Woes Summer is here! What’s not to love? There are a few things that come to mind…Poison Ivy and dehydration. The good news is, there are ways to avoid these pesky summer woes! First, the dreaded plant that makes you break out in an itchy rash, poison ivy! Remember the old saying, “Leaves of three, let them be”? It’s true. Avoid tri-leafed plants (normally poison ivy has a yellow-purple color). Stay on the path! Try to avoid walking through any high shrubbery or vegetation when hiking through the woods when you can. If you must, be sure to wear long pants, high boots or socks and stay on the path as long as you can. With summer, comes hot temperatures and with those comes dehydration. If you’re outdoors in extreme heat, make sure that you’re drinking fluids. A good choice is a sports drink and water mix. The drinks contain potassium and sodium to help to replenish your electrolytes. It’s important if you’re out working or especially when you’re exercising to drink at least one liter per hour. Follow these simple tips and get the most out of your summer!
“Where advanced technology and affordable prices meet!” Always FREE: •Hearing Evaluation •Live Speech Mapping •In-house Repairs •Real-Ear Verification •Hearing Aid Service •Hearing Aid Evaluation
201 Oakdale Rd. • Johnson City
(607) 770-3870
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Stinging Nettle
Are You a Weed Eater? Who knew that weeds could be so tasty? Well… Some of them can! You’d be surprised at just how many weeds you probably walk past every day are edible. Here are just a few types of weeds you might consider trying and how to prepare them. • Stinging Nettle Also known as Utica Dioica, stinging nettle is a weed of rich, damp soil. It is extremely high in protein, rich in both Vitamin A and C and helps to support the liver. Nettle should be gathered when it is young and stems are only about six inches high. Gathering periods include the spring and fall. You can dry nettle to use for tea or even cook it like spinach, but never ever eat stinging nettle raw!
Lambs Quarters
• Purslane A common weed found in gardens and in fields, grows flat to the ground. It has thick stems and small pink-colored leaves. The whole plant is edible before flowering and it is high in Vitamin C. You can add the young shoots to things like casserole and soup! • Lambs Quarters The whole plant can be used as long as it is less than six inches. It is often found in gardens and well fertilized pastures. Lambs quarters is rich in potassium, iron and is similar in taste to spinach. Use the raw young leaves in a salad or cook them!
Broadleaf Plantain
• Broadleaf Plantain/ Narrow Leaf Plantain Both the broadleaf and the narrow leaf are edible plants. They grow in moist soil and in gardens and they are very rich in Vitamin A and C. When preparing this weed, make sure to thoroughly wash the leaves and remove stems, boil in water, drain and rinse! You must be careful when selecting wild plants to eat; some are extremely deadly! Be sure to have a detailed, reliable guide and….if you are having trouble identifying certain plants, err on the side of caution until you can identify them.
Collaboration A nonprofit independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association
The operative word in health care.
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Most health care is delivered locally. Collaboration to address today’s health care issues and plan for tomorrow’s needs also should be local. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield collaborates with local businesses, community and civic organizations, educators, members and health care providers to make high-quality health care accessible and affordable for the people who live and work here. That’s why we’re here.
Have a Healthy Weekend! We all know that willpower tends to go out the window when it comes to weekends. We work hard to exercise throughout the week and eat healthy but as soon as Friday and Saturday roll around it’s so easy to overindulge on foods that we normally wouldn’t eat during the week and fun, fruity cocktails, especially in the summer. Why is it that we do so well on weeknights? Well, whether you are aware of it or not, most of us are working off of a schedule… wake up, eat breakfast, go to work, grab a quick lunch, eat a hearty dinner and squeeze in exercise during the morning or at night. When you get into a routine it’s pretty easy to stay on track. Unfortunately, splurging on the weekend can “undo” any healthy decisions you made during the week. This doesn’t mean that you can’t go out to dinner and have a few cocktails on the weekend; it just means that you should monitor what you’re eating and drinking a little more closely and practice healthy behavior on the weekends just as you would during the week! Here are some tips to a healthier weekend: • Follow your regular sleeping patterns. Do you go to bed around the same time each night and find yourself up very late on the weekends? This can actually throw your entire sleep schedule off making for an extremely tired Monday. It also changes your eating habits, go to bed later, wake up later, no breakfast, big lunch… you get the idea. Try to keep it relatively close to your week night bedtime! • Get Outside! Many people work indoors during the daytime and by the time we get home, eat dinner and get settled in we don’t often make it back outside. The weekend provides us a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sunshine!
• Limit your drinks. Practice moderation when it comes to alcohol on the weekend, those calories adds up pretty quickly. Being good during the week can be canceled out by too much on the weekend. • RELAX! Be sure to plan time for relaxation on the weekend. Weekends tend to turn into non-stop errands, cleaning and even travel. Since we don’t have free time during the week for these things we end up doing them on the weekend. You will feel ten times better if you schedule down time to do something for you… read your favorite book, do some gardening, watch a movie or just lay outside in the hammock!
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Keep Kids Moving During the Summer!
Contributor Kelsey Newman-Owner Positive LifeForce Fitness & Wellness 3000 Wayne Street, Endwell, NY
Blood Tests Made Easy • Prompt, caring service • Open early • Appointments encouraged, walk-ins welcome • Trusted by physicians
Please visit this convenient location! Binghamton
345 Harry L Dr., Lemon Plaza Johnson City, NY 13790 Mon - Fri 7am - 3pm Closed Lunch 12:30 - 1pm Phone: 607-798-1041 Fax: 607-798-1097
To make appointments: www.questdiagnostics.com or 1-800-LAB-TEST (1-800-522-8378) HLM • 13
We all know how good it feels to put your feet up, relax and sit in front of the television with the air conditioning cranked up… But, you should always remember just how important it is for everyone to stay active, especially kids! This summer, encourage the kids get out and explore new places like parks, hiking trails, nature preserves, lakes and more. Let them use their imagination and take control of being active. Kelsey Newman, owner of Positive LifeForce Fitness and Wellness Center in Endwellsays that “We’ve got to let kids use their imagination. Ask your kids to create a new game with characters and let them to set the rules. Suggest things like running and trying not to get caught. If they suggest safe zones, make a rule to only stand in them for 5 seconds. It can be fun for kids to have multiple or timed levels of their game to keep things more exciting!” Did you ever think about trying yoga with your kids? This is an ideal activity for one of those hot days where you need to stay inside and keep cool. Newman suggests you “let children create their own poses. Have them name their favorite animal and then make a shape (pose) they think would resemble that animal. Don’t get stuck thinking it has to look like traditional adult yoga” It’s easy to let kids stay inside and play video games with friends especially when temperatures get extreme, but encourage them to become active and be active with them! Another great way to keep kids moving and spend time with them is to take a class together, such as Parent-Child Yoga. Ms. Newman, who offers a class like this, says that “kids are natural yogis because they haven’t quite learned certain body mechanics or how things are “supposed” to be done so they are, on most occasions even more open to the idea of exploring and being creative in yoga classes.” When school is not in session it is very important to try and keep your kids active; they aren’t getting gym or recess time like they normally would, and this can lead to a routine of sedentary behavior that in the end is not good for their overall health. Whatever it may be that your child enjoys, whether it’s going to the zoo, running around in the backyard or even discovering a new yoga pose, encourage it all and join in the fun this summer!
Prevent Dental Problems for Your Pets Elsewhere in this issue of Healthy Life we talk about periodontal disease in humans, but did you know that you pet can suffer from the same thing? And chances are, Fido or Fluffy can’t tell when their oral health is deteriorating. The causes and symptoms for periodontal disease in pets are generally the same for our pets as they are for you and me: plaque and tartar which fosters bacteria, which can lead to gingivitis. The irritation of the gums can cause bleeding and in severe cases, can be very painful; your pets might drop food while chewing or even stop eating. And periodontal disease in your pet can affect not just their mouths, but can their overall health, including the lungs, heart, and kidneys. Bacteria that cause oral disease can travel into the respiratory system or even the blood stream, leading to infections of other organs. Does your pet suffer from bad breath? Bad breath in cats and dogs can indicate an oral health problem. Tartar is very tightly adhered to the tooth and is very difficult to be removed without special dental cleaning tools. A vital part of good oral health is brushing. Just as in our own mouths, brushing your pet’s teeth will help to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar. When you brush your pet’s teeth, you should use a soft bristled tooth brush to avoid irritating their gums. You can either use a pet tooth brush, or a pediatric tooth brush. Be sure you use a tooth paste made for pets. These are flavored for pets, so that some dogs and cats will even think it’s a treat to get their teeth brushed! Animals are going to swallow most of their toothpaste, so you don’t want to use human toothpaste with fluoride. Your veterinarian will be able to evaluate your pet’s teeth at yearly examinations. If they see that dental disease is present, they may recommend a dental cleaning. When your pet has a professional dental cleaning at the veterinary clinic, this must be performed under anesthesia. They should have blood work performed first in order to screen for risk factors. Once they are under, the veterinarian can do a thorough evaluation of the
mouth, checking every tooth for damage and disease. The process of cleaning the teeth is quite similar to what we receive at the dentist. X-rays will be taken, and teeth can be extracted if necessary. There are groomers that offer teeth cleaning without anesthesia. This isn’t the same as a full dental cleaning. They can not clean under the gum line, which is where that dangerous bacteria lived. Also, they often do not fully polish the teeth. Without the polishing step, the microscopic scratches created by the scaling process remain, and plaque and bacteria can grow in these defects. For more information on dental disease in pets, you can look at the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s website, www.vohc.org. They also have information on products that will help to maintain your pet’s oral health. A healthy mouth will help keep your pet healthy, and will improve that ‘doggie breath’. Contributor Christopher R. McKinney, DVM, Vestal Veterinary Hospital
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Too Hot To Handle? Hot chili peppers add flavor to dishes including salsa and pasta. And while many people can’t get enough of peppers’ spicy kick, others may want to turn down the thermostat. A glass of low-fat or fat-free milk can help moderate the effects of hot peppers. Casein, the main protein in milk, washes away the part of the pepper that leaves your mouth and throat so hot. To turn down the heat of peppers during meal preparation, remove the seeds and inner membranes before adding it to your dish. Be careful to avoid burning your skin — use rubber gloves and never touch or rub your eyes when you’re handling peppers. Source: American Dietetic Association
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CHOCOLATE MILK... ...helps repair muscle tissue ...restores muscle glycogen ...is a great source of protein ...is “Good For You” carbs
Golf is GOOD for You!
The Benefits of Chocolate Milk… After You Workout In order to reap the greatest results from your training sessions, you need to make sure that your post-workout meal or drink is up to par. After a hard workout, your body is most receptive to using amino acids to repair muscle tissue and carbohydrates to restore muscle glycogen. Chocolate milk will provide you with the benefits of carbohydrates and high protein from the milk. Ideally, a post workout meal or drink should have between 15-25 grams of protein; a cup of chocolate milk provides you with 8-11 grams. The carbohydrates in this tasty drink are significant after a long weight session. The sugar spikes insulin levels; muscle tissue is nourished by glucose which in turn, replenishes your energy for the next workout session. these signs, don’t wait. Make it a point to set up a hearing evaluation with your local audiologist or hearing care professional. Remember…hearing loss is not a normal condition, and hearing loss should never go untreated!
Mark Twain once said that “golf is a good walk spoiled.” This is not necessarily true… Riding in a cart for a round is certainly not heart healthy, but walking is! On average, and 18-hole course is between 5-8 miles which is optimal endurance exercise for your heart if you walk it. If you carry or pull your clubs you tend to burn eve more calories. So try to resist the temptation to hop in the cart and walk those links for a healthier heart. Not only is golf good for your heart it’s also helps you sleep better! Since golf is an outdoor sport, you tend to soak up a lot of UV rays and Vitamin D which improves overall well-being which helps them sleep better. Studies show that people who engage in regular physical activity and have proper nutrition sleep with fewer interruptions. So don’t always think of exercising as having to go for a run or workout at the gym, you can get a good workout in doing your favorite things! The next time you‘re looking for a fun way to exercise, get out and golf!
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A Little Family Organization
Saves a Lot of Stress
Family Focus
by Carol Boughner
Before bedtime walk through the house with your child and pick up everything left out. Make sure everything has its own place. Lay out clothes for the next day and make sure all dirty clothes are put in the hamper. Do one load of laundry per day. Wash, dry, fold, and put away one load of laundry a day. You know when you miss a day, the laundry starts to pile up and seems overwhelming. Have a laundry basket designated for each family member. Teach children how to sort their own laundry and put into appropriate loads. Get children into the habit early of picking up their clothes. Teach the children how to put away their own clothes in the appropriate place.
Summer is the perfect time to get the family organized! Now that school is out, take some time to get everyone used to some new steps you all can take to cut down on household chaos, and reduce everyone’s stress levels. Here are some tips to organize your family’s life: Set up hooks for coats and backpacks near the door where the family comes and goes frequently for each person. Also, a second hook or tote underneath the hook for hats, mittens, sneakers, lunchbox etc. Put up hooks for key rings too so you aren’t frantically looking for yours in the morning. Plan meals for every night of the week. Post the meal schedule on the refrigerator so whoever gets home first can start the preparation. If you can, make a few meals ahead on the weekend and freeze for the busy upcoming week. Use the crockpot so that dinner is ready when you get home. Home-cooked meals are cheaper and more nutritious than take-out. Have kids set the table or help clean up so that mealtime doesn’t take all evening. Save one art project and toss the rest. Children bring a lot of paperwork home from school and it’s impractical to save and store it all. Pick a few special items and toss the rest. Keep a bin labeled with each child’s name for their work or scan the pages into the computer and keep a digital file of your child’s school year.
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Sort the mail every day and immediately recycle all junk mail. Open the bills, remove the actual bill and return envelope, and throw away everything unnecessary in the envelope. Place all bills in “Bill Folder”. Pay the bills on the same day every month. Dispose of broken, empty and out of date items. Out of order telephones, obsolete computers and electronics, toys with missing pieces, unused or out-of-date cosmetics, broken appliances, etc., all need to be thrown away. Sometimes these items are stored in the hope of finding, fixing, mending, combining or selling but they just end up gathering dust and taking up precious space. Throw away the unsalvageable and donate the salvageable. Take one Saturday every two or three months and go through the closets, drawers, attic, basement and garage and collect unused items and get rid of them. Posting a large calendar in a central location allows parents and children to know what is coming up that day, week and month. The calendar should have everything posted so there are no surprises. Set a good example and be on time to appointments, school, sports, events, etc. Teach children that being even five minutes late is disrespectful to those who are waiting. None of the above habits are too difficult to implement. Start small. Kids of all ages love to help out. Consider making one change every week. That way, when summer is over and the kids go back to school, you will feel more organized. Maybe you will discover more time for family activities that you all enjoy. What may seem like a chore to you may be a fun activity for your child, especially since you are doing it together.
Healthy Recipe
F R E S H
Tomato & Feta Pizza 1 pound refrigerated fresh pizza dough 4 plum tomatoes, sliced 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon cornmeal 4 ounces feta cheese 1 ounce pitted kalamata olives, halved (1/3 cup) 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1. Let dough stand at room temperature, covered, for 30 minutes. 2. Arrange tomato slices on a jelly-roll pan lined with paper towels; top with more paper towels. Let stand 30 minutes. 3. Place a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet in oven. Preheat oven to 500° (keep pizza stone or baking sheet in oven as it preheats). 4. Combine tomatoes, 2 tablespoons oil, and garlic. Roll dough into a 14inch circle on a lightly floured surface, and pierce dough liberally with a fork. Carefully remove pizza stone from oven. Sprinkle cornmeal over stone; place dough on stone. Arrange tomato mixture on dough. Crumble cheese; sprinkle over pizza. Bake at 500° for 19 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is lightly browned. Remove from oven; top with olives and basil. Brush outer crust with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil. Cut pizza into 6 large slices.
Water Cooler Chat Healthy Summer Drinks! The number one drink for the summer is… (drumroll)…Water! You can never get enough water and it is extremely important to always stay hydrated. That beautiful sun is also the main cause of dehydration. Jazz up your glass of water with wedges of lime, lemon and other fresh fruit such as strawberries, peaches or apples; they add a great boost of flavor to water! Next in line of refreshing summer drinks: iced tea or iced green tea, which is loaded with antioxidants. Add a wedge of lemon to your iced tea instead of reaching for the sugar jar, even try some sliced peaches or raspberries a sweet treat. Lastly, try some squeezing some pomegranate juice into your daily diet! It helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol AND event helps to prevent plaque build-up. Refreshing, and good for you, too!
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Coming up in the next
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• Don’t ‘Fall’ Into Bad Habits • Exciting Medical News • Asthma for Life?
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