d-mars.com Health & Wellness 11

Health & Wellness Journal Health

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Medical

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Wellness

oct. - nov. 20th, 2011

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research

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fitness

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Lifestyle

Inspire, Inform & Educate

11TH Edition

Making Every Day Count

INSIDE

4 Healthy Breakfast Choices Why settle for store-bought pancake mixes when you can so easily make your own, more wholesome pancakes?

PAGE 6

Count Down Starts with Today In a time of social media phenomenons, texting while walking and driving leads us to a sense of people thinking they are too busy to stop and smell the roses.

PAGE 11

Paula Johnson-Ealy (CEO) & Ashley S. Bingham (COO)

“Don’t count the days, make the days count.” Muhammad Ali Hearing: A Quality of Life Issue Having a hearing loss can greatly reduce a person’s quality of life. The good news is most people with a hearing loss can be helped.

PAGE 16

Foundation for Health and Dermatology Disparity Dr. Milton D. Moore has started a foundation to deal with common health problems of African Americans.

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Ruama Camp and Chris Forte Ruama Camp, Leading a Healthy Life for Abundant Living.

Celebrating Life and Making Everyday Count See pg. 19

Lady Emma Prima Celebrates 105 Years of Healthy Living.

See pg. 14

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October - November 20, 2011

October - November 20, 2011

Journal

Behind The

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

Our theme in this month’s journal is “Making Everyday Count.” We must recognize that life is a gracious gift and each day we have is an opportunity to in the words of the old Frank Sinatra song, “Do it our way.” Perhaps if you look at life as a blank check that you can write any size dollar amount on, would you invest more time in making it count for something? You literally determine the value of your life by what you invest in it. Time, money, effort, and self discipline, they all contribute to the quality of your life. Simply speaking, live life on purpose and make every second of it count!

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making things happen.

CONTENTS Ready-to-Go Med Sources.......................................................................... 4 “Living Your Best Life Now” It all starts with YOU!..................…….….........4 Making Every Day Count..............................................................................5 4 Healthy Breakfast Choices.........................................................................6 Daniel’s Example.............................................................………...................9 What if Today Were the Last Day...................................................................9 Are You Influenced By Your Spouses Choices?.......………………….….....10 Is There a Connection Between Health, Fitness and Longevity?.........…...11 Count Down Starts with Today....................................................................11 Exercise to Heal...........................................................................………....12 Excuses or Results? Take The Easy Route......…..........................….........12 Lady Emma Prima is Making Everyday Count............................................14 Ways to Live to 100.....................................................................................14 Hearing: A Quality of Life Issue...................................................................16 Ruama Camp, Leading a Healthy Life for Abundant Living........................19 Foundation for Health and Dermatology Disparity......................................19 Want to retire in 2012? Apply Now!..............................................................20 100 Disability Conditions Fast Tracked......................................................20 Kids “Fall” Back into School Sports...........................................................23 SCI, Employment Solutions for the Disabled............................................. 24 Learn The Secrets of How To Gain Weight................................................24

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

D-MARS.com Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 805 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com

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October - November 20, 2011

Ready-to-Go Med Sources

BY PAULA JOHNSON-EALY / OWNER

ASHLEY S. BINGHAM & PAULA JOHNSON - EALY

M

y interest in transportation dates back as far as my childhood years when my father, the late Richard C. Johnson, Sr., was hired as one of the first *African-American drivers in the South for the Greyhound Lines Bus Company. I watched as he extended courteous and caring service to travelers who boarded his bus. He was both helpful and nice. He enjoyed traveling from state to state, meeting and helping people from all walks of life.

I admired him for his loyalty and sincerity. So when the opportunity presented itself in late 2007 to enter as a start-up company in the medical transportation industry, I jumped at the chance. With little understanding of how a business was run, I had a few pluses; I had a sister who was a business owner, a few faithful friends, a family that supported me and I could cook! That same year we were extended a one-year contract with a company based in St.

Louis that serviced Medicare clients in Houston and surrounding counties. We were thrilled. My brother-in-law helped us to organize our trips, as he had knowledge of the business basics. Our office started in the dining room of our home and meetings were held around the dining room table. At the time, our drivers were all men with big appetites, so I would prepare a few dishes and coordinate our business around food. They loved it and those meetings remain some of the best meetings we’ve ever had.

As the next few years went by, we learned from our patients.

We learned a lot by listening to their concerns. Among the many things we learned was that they loathed waiting hours for other companies to return them home.

So to help us get an edge in an industry that only sees money as the reward, we decided to go for patient satisfaction. For us, the satisfaction paid off. Today, most of our business is from repeat clients and client referrals. We pride ourselves in offering courteous, safe, caring, confidential and helpful service. Our medical valets are patient and kind.

We don’t overbook our schedules, so we’re never hurried to do our jobs. We are familiar with the terrain, potential traffic and driving conditions, and above all, we know the weather patterns in Houston.

We proudly deliver patients to any medical appointment: physician offices, clinics, hospitals, therapy, dialysis, specialty eye appointments, the podia-

trist, pharmacy and/or to light errands around town. We understand that to earn someone’s trust takes time and effort; we are prepared to prove our sincerity by providing great service at a reasonable rate. We want to be your medical valet and we’ll do what we can to keep your business.

Our entire family is involved in the operations of the company, with our daughter, Ashley S. Bingham, serving as the Chief Operations Officer. We depend on her heavily to keep us on target. Our office is open MondayFriday 8:30AM-2:00PM, with live answering service 24-hours a day. We’d like to make your appointment soon so give us a call, an operator is standing by.

At Ready-to-Go Med-Sources, “We’re Ready Whenever You Are!” 713.592.0300 | 2600 S. Loop W. | STE 291 Houston, Texas 77054 PAULA JOHNSON-EALY, OWNER ASHLEY S. BINGHAM, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

“Living Your Best Life Now” It all starts with YOU!

BY PAULA JOHNSON-EALY

You might ask “how can I achieve a better life now with all the confusion surrounding my daily life”? School, career, children, husband’s, wives’, bills and other responsibilities all add to the beauty and complexity of what we have created and call life. “Living Your Best Life Now” is the resounding theme for this month. To bring this concept closer within reach, we must first realize the choices we make early on have impact on the quality of life we enjoy in the future. With that in mind, consider the conditions under which decisions are made. From a spectator’s standpoint, it is easy to speculate about someone’s circumstances until you’ve had the chance to walk a mile in their shoes experiencing their reality.

Notwithstanding your experiences, living your best life now

starts with YOU! It begins on the inside and moves outward.

No matter where you are in life, change can happen right now.

To the young and “young at heart” in search of a better YOU, here are a few easy tips to get you started on your path to greatness!

Get to know YOU better: It’s amazing how, if we take a moment and step back, we can learn something new about ourselves that we didn’t know.

The other day someone was overheard proclaiming he had done something that surprised even himself; he didn’t realize he could do such a thing. Learn about yourselves deeply and passionately, get to know what truly makes you uniquely YOU.

Learn to Love YOU and Think Positively: It’s really funny how we always omit ourselves from love’s equation and a shame how we’re always thinking of ways to love someone else better, more deeply. What about YOU? Learn to embrace who you are and what you’re all about. Embrace your beliefs, strong points, shortcomings, and all qualities in between.

Laugh at yourself, it is ok!

Looking in a mirror, repeat these words “As I look in this mirror what do I see, I see an outstanding person, (a man, a woman, a survivor) who means the world to me”! Say it with meaning and conviction. Believe what you say, because what you are saying is empowering to the mind and soul. As the Bible so eloquently reveals, “As a man thinketh in his heart so is he,”

(Proverbs 23:7). Our thoughts are a total summation of our character and being. It’s okay to have made mistakes and missteps; it’s called life’s experiential training. However, the real test comes in how well we get up and do better. Dr. Thomas F. Freeman, renowned Debate Coach for over 60 years at Texas Southern University put it this way when asked years ago why the TSU Debate Team was so good.

His reply, “What we do, we do well; what we don’t do well, we don’t do at all!” Ponder that.

Take meaningful steps toward your future: It’s an age old saying, however, still valid today, “The future is coming whether you’re prepared for it or not.” Make the commitment to finish high school, go to college, lose weight, start a busi-

ness, get a better job, or to brush up on your skills. Whatever it may be, DO IT! There’s nothing stopping you, but YOU. We live in the land of opportunity where success abounds! Don’t be left out, get in motion toward a better, more productive YOU! Learn to forgive yourself and others: Most of our unhappiness comes from our unwillingness to forgive ourselves or others for things that they may have done to us. Forgive yourself for past hurts and pains inflicted by you on your own person. Also forgive others for the disappointments and disregard that they have shown you. To forgive is the greatest virtue we have and the most powerful expression we can invoke. To truly forgive is a burden lifter. Whatever it

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Making Every Day Count By: Dr. James Dykes

may be, let it go and watch God move in your behalf.

Lastly, you only get ONE life, make the best of it!

Take time to enjoy yourselves.

Relax, reflect and reconnect with yourselves and those you love.

Declare from this day forward only peace and joy will flourish in your hearts and minds.

Keeping in mind these words

by Mother Teresa, “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin!”

Alongside “living your best life now,” October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Let us encourage those who are tri-

umphant in their courageous battle, remember the ribbon and get involved in the movement.

Always know your life is God’s gift to you; what you do with it is your gift back to Him! May love, happiness, and good health be yours in the days, months, and years ahead.

Please send comments to: editorial_comments@yahoo.com Paula Johnson-Ealy holds the BS in Healthcare Administration and MS in Health from Texas Southern University ; Ashley S. Bingham holds the BS in Business (Marketing) from Texas Southern University and the MS in Integrated Marketing and Communications from Roosevelt University, Chicago, Illinois.

Health complexities of our day and time are largely due to amount of stress and strain that one may place on the body without proper care. Often we fail to pay attention to the messages that our body sends us regarding what it requires to function as our creator designed. The astronomical number of myths and misconceptions regarding diet, exercise and mental health trends tend to play an integral role in the decisions that we make concerning our overall approach to our personal health care. Our personal best can be achieved in all areas of our life when we choose to make well informed choices regarding our physical and mental health.

The first key to success in making every day count is acknowledging our creator. Every day is a personal priceless gift from God. Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Our unwavering trust in GOD has a huge impact on the way we live our lives. God has a supreme plan for each one of us.

It is our job to play the role personally assigned to us. Jeremiah

29:11 is our assurance of this principle. It states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

God always makes provisions for our purpose. Keeping the word at the forefront of our mind will keep you in perfect peace.

The second key to success is our approach to physical wellness. Diet and exercise are essential components to wellness. The saying, “you are what you eat” bares much truth. The human body is a mystical, supernatural structure that is capable of performing functions sometimes unexplainable by man. It must be properly maintained and fueled with the proper nutrients for optimal performance. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, lean cuts of meat, and fish is very important. One must always remember that caloric input must not exceed what is burned off through standard daily activities and exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults need at least 150 min-

utes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. They also advise one to perform muscle strengthening activities including legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms at least twice a week. The major benefits of exercise are 1) weight control 2)improves mood 3) boosts energy 4) combats health conditions and diseases 5) promotes better sleep 6)puts the spark back into your sex life and 7) gives one a reason to just have fun. If one regularly maintains the body, usually there will be very little need for behavior modification in the golden years. TODAY is the perfect time for a fresh start.

In closing, to make every day count, one must properly feed your mind, body and soul. Developing healthy habits is a personal choice. We must choose to live a lifestyle that will allow us to function at our personal best at any age. On this day, what will you choose? It is solely up to you. Congratulations to you in advance for exercising your right to make choices that will be beneficial for a healthy, joyful and prosperous life.

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4 Healthy Breakfast Choices 1]

Whole Wheat Pancakes Why settle for store-bought pancake mixes when you can so easily make your own, more wholesome pancakes? These whole-wheat pancakes are light and delicious. Add some chopped berries if you like, and serve with warmed fruit compote or maple syrup. Just steer clear of butter!

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Ingredients: • 1 cup whole wheat flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 1/8 tsp salt • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1 cup low-fat buttermilk • 2 tbsp honey Preparation: Whisk whole-wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, combine egg, buttermilk and honey. Make a well in dry ingredients and stir in egg and buttermilk mixture.

Allow batter to rest for a few minutes.

Preheat griddle to 375 degrees or set a nonstick frying pan to medium-high heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls on to griddle or pan. Cook until the edges begin to dry and bubbles appear in the pancakes. Flip and cook for 1-2 minutes more.

Makes 8 pancakes.

Per 2 pancake serving: Calories 188, Calories from Fat 21, Total Fat 2.3g (sat 0.8g), Cholesterol 55mg, Sodium 236mg, Carbohydrate 34.2g, Fiber 3.7g, Protein 7.6g Calories: 81, Calories from Fat 14, Total Fat 1.6g (sat 0.9g), Cholesterol 5mg, Sodium 249mg, Carbohydrate 3.4g, Fiber 1g, Protein 13.4g

French Toast

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French toast is a favorite weekend breakfast treats. If you’re concerned about fat and cholesterol, use egg substitute or a combination of eggs and egg whites in place of whole eggs.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 8 minutes Total Time: 13 minutes Ingredients: • 8 slices of day-old sliced whole grain bread • 1/2 cup egg substitute (equivalent to 2 eggs) • 3/4 cup nonfat milk • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp cinnamon Preparation: Combine egg substitute, milk, vanilla and cinnamon in a wide bowl or dish. Dip bread in egg mixture ensuring both sides are soaked. Heat griddle or nonstick skillet, sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, on medium-high. Alternatively, heat oven to 450 degrees and spray a cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray Place bread slices in skillet or griddle, or on cookie sheet and cook until both sides of bread are golden brown. About 3 minutes each side.

Top with confectioner’s sugar and fresh fruit or maple syrup.

Serves 4 Per two slice serving (before toppings): Calories 188, Calories from Fat 21, Calories from Fat 2.3g (sat 1.1g), Cholesterol 1mg, Sodium 332mg, Carbohydrate 31.2g, Fiber 4.2g, Protein 10.6g Calories: 81, Calories from Fat 14, Total Fat 1.6g (sat 0.9g), Cholesterol 5mg, Sodium 249mg, Carbohydrate 3.4g, Fiber 1g, Protein 13.4g

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Morning Glory Muffins If you’re watching your cholesterol, you may need to limit your intake of dietary cholesterol, These muffins are especially good warm. Perfect for popping into lunch boxes or as an an after-school treat, your kids will gobble these up as though there wasn’t a vegetable in sight.

For an extra nutritional boost, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.

Cook Time: 22 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup oats (not instant or quick cooking) • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp baking soda • Pinch of salt • 1/2 tsp cinnamon • 1/2 tsp ginger • 1/4 tsp nutmeg • 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1/4 cup canola oil • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 cup fat-free milk • 1 8-ounce can crushed pineapple • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots) • 1/2 cup raisins

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Preparation: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or spray muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Whisk flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg in a large bowl.

In a medium bowl stir brown sugar, egg, oil, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.

Stir in pineapple, carrots and raisins.

Add wet ingredients to dry, and mix until just moist. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean or tops spring back when pressed.

Makes 12 muffins Per Muffin: Calories 203, Calories from Fat 50, Total Fat 5.5g (sat 0.5g), Cholesterol 18mg, Sodium 167g, Carbohydrate 35.5g, Fiber 2.2g, Protein 4g

Herbed Egg White and Spinach If you’re watching your cholesterol, you may need to limit your intake of dietary cholesterol, of which eggs are a notorious source. While you undoubtedly lose some flavor in ridding yourself of the yolks, you can add flavor and substance to an egg white omelet in many ways.

Here’s a nice herbed egg white and spinach omelet, which makes a perfect light breakfast or lunch. Enjoy this egg white omelet with a dollop of salsa on the side or a slice or two of whole-grain toast.

Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: • 3 egg whites • 1 tablespoon nonfat milk • 1/2 tsp dried mixed herbs • Freshly ground black pepper • 3/4 cup chopped fresh baby spinach • 1 tablespoon reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar or grated parmesan Preparation: Combine egg whites, milk and herbs in a small bowl. Coat a small nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat the skillet on medium to low heat. Add chopped spinach. As it wilts, pour egg white mixture over the spinach and allow to set around the edges. As the edges set, lift them gently with a spatula and tip the skillet to allow remaining liquid underneath. When the egg whites are set, sprinkle the cheese on top, then fold the omelet in half. Serve immediately.

Serves 1 Calories: 81, Calories from Fat 14, Total Fat 1.6g (sat 0.9g), Cholesterol 5mg, Sodium 249mg, Carbohydrate 3.4g, Fiber 1g, Protein 13.4g

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October - November 20, 2011 9.

Daniel’s Example

BY Shareefah Muhammad

“There is no way of prolonging the life of human-beings- or any other life- unless it begins with restrictions of the foods which sustain life: the right kinds of food and the proper time when it should be taken into our bodies.

(How to Eat to Live Book 1)

”

Of all the diseases that man has categorized, over 75% of them are diet related. That means that the majority of the ailments that we suffer from are under our control.

In How to Eat to Live by The Honorable Elijah Muhammad, he teaches us that if we eat the right foods at the right time, we would eliminate hundreds, thousands, and millions of dollars of doctor bills and hospitalization.

And most importantly, we would live a long time to fulfill the destinies we were ultimately brought here to manifest.

Since many of us have not chosen this option as a people, we have allowed ourselves to become victims of our own untimely demise. In the hip-hop community, many of our admired artists suffer because of the lifestyle they become attached to, this includes long tours, fast food, excessive partying, little rest, and late nights which make up a perfect cocktail of human destruction. And because they are role models for many of us, we follow that same lifestyle pattern as well. As a result, we have lost great artists such as Nate Dogg, Big Pun, Pimp C and many more.

Eating poisonous foods because they are conveniently available has never been and can no longer be an excuse for trying to fulfill a nutritional void.

In the Book of Daniel (1:8-17), Daniel and his companions are taken as captives under King Nebudchadnezzer. Daniel refuses to eat the royal food of the King.

Instead he requests the foods of his people. The guard overseeing Daniel and his companions responds to this request by saying, “Why should he (the King) see you looking worse than the other young men of your age?” (from refusing the royal food). Daniel’s response was, “Please test your servants for ten days... then compare our appearance...)”. Well at the end of ten days, Daniel and his companions looked healthier and better nourished than ANY of the men that ate the royal food. And as a result, God gave them clarity of mind to receive knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning.

With this historical (yet prophetical) story given to us, what kind of response do we get when we follow How to Eat to Live? What has been our comparison to those who eat the “royal food” and those who eat the “foods of David?” What is this “royal food”?

What is this “food of David”?

Once we know the difference between these foods, then and only then can we avoid them.

What does perceive mean? Perceive means to become aware of through one of the senses, especially through seeing. It also means to take in through the mind. What did God permit Daniel to perceive through his diet? So let us ask ourselves this last question, what have we been eating lately? Let’s make everyday count in how we choose what is going to sustain us.

Shareefah Muhammad is a student of health and wellness and can be found on twitter.com/@SisterShareefah

What if Today Were the Last Day?

BY Charlotte Jackson So often we rush through life meeting deadlines and missing out on what is really important.

During most of my adult life, I have had reminders from mentors and coworkers such as “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” or “Do you want to make a difference or just make a living?” and yet, the older I get, the more I realize that it is not so much what I can accomplish for me, but what about

that person that I am talking to right now.

As you answer the phone, are you distracted by noise in the office?

Did the tone of the caller cause you to want to answer their questions and get them off the phone as quick as possible? Did the person standing in your doorway interrupt you from a project?

to sit down. She explained that she was a single mother of three children, without transportation or a job who was trying to return to school. The more she talked, the more she revealed about a very difficult childhood. She had spent much of her middle school and high school years bouncing from one foster home to another.

Working with the public, I have often been reminded that the customer is never an interruption of my work, they are the reason for my position, yet I too am guilty of sometimes not slowing down to look into their eyes or listen to their voice to see what their real concerns are. My former Associate Pastor once gave a message about “What if today were the last day on this Earth for the person you are talking to? How would you treat them differently?”

During the next 20 minutes, I not only learned about her life, but learned how much I had to be thankful for. Since that day, I have been able to find resources in the community to share with her.

I am not sure who was more excited when she got her job. When she came into my office to tell me, we both were shouting praises.

Not long after that, she stopped into my office to share that she had another job interview and as we prayed, I was reminded that it only took a few minutes of my time to speak life into her and pour the foundation for a wonderful friendship. Look at the blessing I would have missed out on if I had been too busy to stop and make the moment count.

The very next day, I had a woman come into my office needing assistance and I could see the frustration in her face. I stopped what I was doing and invited her

10. October - November 20, 2011

Are You Influenced By Your Husbands Choices?

BY Lynn Smith

At the age of 42, I got remarried.

At that time I was thin and energetic. I’ve never had a weight problem.

But somewhere along the way, I woke up 34 pounds heavier! I could have asked, “How did this happen?” but I’m not stupid. It was all those nights sitting on the couch watching TV and eating Doritos. The surprising part is how did I not notice? I still don’t have a clear answer to that.

You’d think it would have been a gradual process and I would become aware that things were changing. I never noticed until I had gained four pant sizes!

Suddenly, for the first time in my life, I was heavy. I’d see pants hanging in the back of my closet, really pretty, stylish pants that I could no longer wear. When I walked I couldn’t help but feel like a duck waddling, there was no grace in my movements.

This was a real blow to my ego.

I was always thin and I liked to

dress nice. I no longer felt pretty.

Up until that point, I could always turn heads went I entered a room. Now no one noticed! It was a tough adjustment.

put one foot in front of the other.

Not so! Running is hard! After just a couple attempts I figured I must not be cut out for it and let it go.

Looking back, I can see the mistake I made. In fact, it’s one a lot of women make. When I remarried, I took on my husband’s lifestyle habits. He’s a big TV watcher and snacker, so that’s what I became.

A short time later I ran across a program called the Couch-to-5k.

This re-ignited my interest in running. The program fit me to a “T!” After all, I was a couch potato.

The real turnaround for me was coming to that realization and deciding that it did not serve me.

But deciding to honor myself by stepping up and into better selfcare wasn’t so easy.

The first change I made was to increase my activity. There had been times in my life when I exercised regularly but it had been a while. Weighing more made it more of a challenge.

At one point I decided to start running. It seemed simple enough, walk out the door and

The program made it so easy to slowly become a runner. I had no problem being regular with it. In fact, before I even finished the 9-week program, I had scheduled myself for a 5k event taking place just after I finished the program. I was so proud of me when I crossed that finish line!

Once I started running regularly, I started feeling better about myself and that made it easier to change other habits that were no longer serving me. I started focusing more on fresh fruits and vegetables. That step led to an

other big one for me: snacking while watching TV. My husband is a snacker and it was so easy to fall into that. I developed a love affair with Cool Ranch Doritos. I still love them, which means I have to be very careful about bringing them into the house.

You see, to me, a bag is a single serving, regardless of its size!

Once I open them I eat my way to the bottom. Oh, sure, I’ll share some with my husband, but most of the bag is mine!

One day I took a look at the label. There’s about 1,820 calories per 13 oz bag. If I ate 2/3 of the bag, that’s around 1,200 calories per sitting. Doing that three times a week is about 3,600 extra calories. Multiply that by 52 weeks and that translates into a weight gain of about 50 pounds.

Just eliminating that one habit had a huge impact on my waistline!

The whole experience was a real life lesson for me. I need to step up and take care of myself regardless of what’s going on around me.

My husband and I still watch TV together. He still gets up to get ice cream. As he asks me, “Do you want some?” my answer is, “No thank you, Honey.” When he asks, “Sure?” I look down and see that I’m wearing those pants that were lost in the back of my closet. “I’m sure” I answer.

About the Author Lose weight and radiate! For articles, tips and expert advice sign up for Vibrant Living at http:// www.healthcoachteam.com Lynn Smith empowers women to elevate their self-care and lose weight, creating a shift in confidence and self-esteem.

October - November 20, 2011 11.

Is There a Connection Between Health, Fitness and Longevity?

BY Steve Kelly

Much has been reported regarding the negative effects of living an unhealthy lifestyle. The media regularly publishes studies and reports detailing the negative side-effects of being overweight, eating an unhealthy diet, or liv-

ness levels even a small amount can have massive implications for improving overall health and well-being.

As a primary example of the long-term health benefits of increasing fitness levels, below are some of the more serious illnesses and conditions that could be alleviated: - Heart disease - Type II diabetes - Stroke - Pulmonary edema - High blood pressure - Asthma-related inflammation - Respiratory diseases - High cholesterol - Bowel cancer - Breast Cancer - Ovarian Cancer - Osteoarthritis - Sleep apnea - Depression and anxiety - Infertility

ing a sedentary lifestyle. For this reason, most people are aware of the increased inherent risk of contracting a serious illness or disease.

Yet the more positive benefits of living an active, healthy lifestyle are often overlooked. Research has verified that increasing fit-

Each of the illnesses and conditions listed above has the capacity to severely reduce the average life-span of a human being. However, researchers are aware that the ability to reduce the incidence of these illnesses and conditions occurring is within the reach of almost everyone.

Health-Related Chain of Events: By improving fitness levels even marginally, the ramifications for your health are significant. Most people report feeling as though they have more energy throughout each day. The same people also reported that they felt far less fatigued and irritable in the morning, even after getting 8 hours sleep.

Instead, these people wake up feeling refreshed, happy, energetic and ready to set about their day.

The reason behind this occurrence is the increase in blood circulatory efficiency that comes as a result of living a more active lifestyle. As blood circulation improves, oxygen is circulated throughout the body more effectively, which enhances and increases the function of major organs such as the heart, lungs, brain, liver and kidneys.

This in turn has a positive effect on lowering blood pressure levels, which allows for far greater ability to handle stressful situations more effectively.

People who enjoy a moderate amount of physical activity in their daily routines often find that the incidence of depression and anxiety is also greatly reduced.

However, one positive effect that

is often overlooked is the effect that an increase in fitness levels can have on self-esteem. As fitness levels increase, most people notice a natural side-effect that includes toning up the body and slimming down in some areas.

This can help to look and feel better about your own body image.

The real medical reason behind this alteration is the increase in the metabolic rate that occurs by raising fitness levels. As the metabolism begins to run more efficiently, the human body is able to burn calories more effectively.

It also begins to process and eliminate toxins from the body.

This helps to reduce bloating and puffiness from water retention, but it can also give your skin a youthful, healthy glow.

The Connection between Fitness and Longevity: The vast majority of research conducted regarding health, fitness and longevity concludes that people living a sedentary lifestyle often fall victim to an array of serious illnesses, conditions or diseases that can dramatically reduce their lifespan.

This leads most people to instantly think of hours of red-faced, sweaty grueling training sessions in the gym in order to ‘get fit’ and become skinny.

Yet, research conducted at the University of South Carolina in Columbia proved conclusively that body fat had nothing to do with the longevity results in the people they monitored during their studies.

The only measure that accurately determined who was more likely to outlive someone else was fitness levels. Improving cardiac fitness was the key denominator in those who remained healthy and well past the age of 60. The official result of that particular study showed that the death rates for those people with greater fitness levels were less than 50% as compared to those people who had poor fitness levels.

The conclusion of this study was that researchers now believe it is very possible to reduce the incidence of premature death rates in all adults by increasing the level of daily physical activity people receive.

Count Down Starts with Today

BY Elvia Valdez

It is not everyday you hear a message that just sticks. It’s an event you can appreciate. In a time of social media phenomenons, texting while walking and driving leads us to a sense of people thinking they are too busy to stop and smell the roses. Hearing a message that contains substance and one that can add value to your life is always a pleasant experience in today’s climate.

imagine what will. Everyday, every moment and every breathe should count for something.

There are people right now who are sick, someone today will be told they have less than six months to live unless they get a transplant, someone today will be told the child they are expecting is going to be sick upon birth, and someone will lose their job today. This is a reality.

There was a church sermon that went a little like this from a well known pastor in Houston’s second ward, “From the moment you are born the clock starts ticking.” “If you want to be young forever you need to die today!”

If those words do not move one to think, it would be hard to

Today is the only thing that is here and now. Tomorrow is not ours and if as a society people continue to pretend we are entitled to things we will not achieve anything.

The beauty of today is priceless to the mother and father who

are kissing their precious baby goodbye, who is on artifical life preserving equipment before her tiny organs are recovered in time to save another child’s life. That is what today means to thousands of people all over the country.

present. People love to open gifts, love getting the invite in the mail to that special event, but when today rolls around for some of us it is just another day.

Today is the only thing that sustains them to hold on to hope that they too will get their lifesaving organ transplant. Today there are nearly 112,000 men, women and children in the Unites States who are waiting for a lifesaving transplant.

As a society we can all take a moment to say today is going to be the day. Today a father can decide he will no longer verbally abuse his wife in front of their children, he will stop. He will realize the best gift he can give his children as a man and father is the relationship between he and his wife.

In a world of would have, could have, or should have - it will be impossible to get today back, after it is gone. The best gift people can give themselves is the

A mother will decide that she will go back to school today to set an example for her children, so that her children will not fall into the vicious cycle of poverty.

She will enroll in night classes at the community college and will finish the last two classes she has before getting her associates degree. This mother will make a conscious decision to have enough sense that she will focus on quality of life for her children and not quantity. She will battle the demons of fear in her mind to know with every beat in her heart and bone in her tough body that the sacrifices of now will create a better today for her children.

Today can make all the difference in the world if one allows themselves the opportunity to take it for everything it has to offer. Go get it, today is waiting!

12. October - November 20, 2011

Exercise to Heal

BY Stephen Lau

Use exercise to heal, because it has to do with the mind, the body, and the spirit. Natural healing is holistic healing, which is healing of the body, the mind, and the spirit. In order to heal, the mind must have the intent to heal, and the body must be ready for healing; during the healing process, the spirit must be energized to overcome any setback or obstacle that may interrupt with the healing process.

Exercise can heal the body, the mind, and the spirit.

For exercise to be effective, it must be a regular routine that shows discipline — just like the mind that must be disciplined and focused in the pursuit of natural healing. With the right exercise mindset, you can use exercise to heal not just the body, but also the mind and the spirit.

Exercise can be instrumental in healing virtually any disease.

Exercise increases the heart

function by stimulating blood circulation to optimize blood pressure and to enhance lung efficiency by increasing the input of oxygen to the lungs. Regular exercise promotes both heart and lung health.

Exercise boosts the immune system. Aerobic exercise may have significant and particular benefits for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity, lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and reducing body fat. For those people with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease, exercise may improve mobility and reverse muscle atrophy by reducing spasticity in neurological disorders.

A number of scientific studies indicated that regular exercise reduces the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer, and even breast

cancer. Use exercise to heal cancer.

Exercise increases the supply of oxygen to the brain, and thus enhancing brain function, making the brain younger for longer. It can even create “a high” through the release of endorphins, which are euphoric substances in the brain. Regular exercise is good for overall mental health.

Regular strenuous exercise relieves any built-up tension, and thus is effective for stress control and stress management. Stress is one of the main underlying causes of disease. Use exercise to heal distress.

Low-impact aerobic exercise, such as jumping rope or a bouncer, significantly improves the body’s circulation to benefit detoxification, which holds the key to holistic healing. The body must be ready for healing, and the removal of toxins provides the optimum environ-

ment. Exercise detoxifies both the body and the mind through increased blood circulation and movement of lymphatic fluids.

Use exercise to heal through detoxification.

Yoga is an excellent example to illustrate how you can use exercise to heal. Yoga is more than an exercise: it is a science that has been practiced for thousands of years, based on ancient theories, observations, and principles about the connection between the body and the mind. The intrinsic healing benefits of yoga have been proven by modern medicine.

Yoga not only provides the body with the most practical approach to attaining a high level of physical fitness, but also stabilizes emotions and elevates mental attitudes. In other words, yoga unites the mind, the body, and the spirit in holis-

tic health. Essentially, it is a holistic approach to wellness and natural healing. Through acute awareness of the body’s posture, alignment, and patterns of movement, as well as the focus on natural breathing, yoga is therapeutic in that it helps the body find true harmony, thereby healing the body, the mind, and the spirit.

Because of its holistic approach to healing and wellness, yoga exercise also requires the application of its basic principle of nutrition, which is the consumption of small quantities of high-quality life-giving foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts, with meat in strict moderation.

Develop the exercise mindset so that you will diligently continue with your exercise routine, thereby instrumental in utilizing exercise to heal.

Excuses or Results? Take The Easy Route

The Upward Spiral To Fitness & Weight Loss!

BY Caroline Radway Are you struggling with motivation to take that first step towards a fitter, healthier you?

Do you feel that it could all be so easy, but you don’t really know where to start? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed because you then let your thoughts run wild and think about all the pitfalls - what if I can’t keep it up, what if it’s all too hard? Fear of failure is debilitating, so it is VITAL that you remind yourself that the only failure is not taking any action at all! There is nothing to lose by trying something - even if it doesn’t work perfectly it will help you decide upon a better route.

One of the best ways of thinking about your journey in life is as a series of spirals. We know how easy it is to take the downward spiral - you miss a workout and then start eating badly, or you

eat one chocolate and suddenly the whole day is a write off...

But if we simply flip that notion on its head it is a stark reminder that creating an upward spiral can be as easy!

Yes, if we stop thinking about where each step will end up, and simply take one small step forwards and upwards, the next step seems to be there, waiting expectantly for another small, do-able, positive step!

So, if you don’t feel like going for a walk, just put on some exercise clothes and trainers (sneakers).

Don’t think about the next bit.

Once you are kitted up, you feel more ready for action - when you are wrapped up in a dressing gown and pajamas even an athlete is not in athlete mode, so simply a change of clothes can make a huge difference.

That simple, easy, positive step drives you forwards to the next one - getting out of the door.

In life coaching and time management coaching the 5 minute rule is often used to get people doing things they usually put off and end up never doing. This works fantastically for exercise too - say you are going to do 5 minutes, and that’s it. If you feel like doing more when you start, great, if not, at least you have done 5 minutes! I am actually using that technique right now writing articles is the thing that keeps staying at the bottom of my things to do list, as I have client emails, programming and ‘important / urgent’ tasks I need to do, so the ‘important / not urgent’ things can get forgotten.

They can be more important than the urgent things - in the same way that putting off exercise today as its not ‘urgent’ whereas all the chores and jobs

and emails screaming for your attention are ‘urgent’, but in the long run, you simply cannot keep putting off getting healthy!

I teach an outdoor fitness ‘boot camp’ and all my clients LOVE the feeling of getting up and out in the mornings - there are evening sessions too, but the effect of getting up that little bit earlier, getting started with that pretty huge step, or series of steps, on the positive spiral, means making better choices for the rest of the day becomes easier. The feel-good factor is biochemical due to the endorphins released because of the exercise and being outdoors, but the sense of achievement and positivity has its own feelgood factor. Spiraling upwards!

Noticing that life operates in spirals makes it easier to halt those downward spirals - as you

know that all you need to do is take one small positive step in the other direction, rather than thinking about the whole journey, to kick start that positive momentum taking you onwards and upwards!

So, make the choice right now - ditch the downward spiral of excuses, and say ‘YES’ to life and the positive spiral of taking positive action, and getting the cascade of positive effects that will surround you as a result!

About the Author Caroline Radway is a Premier Master Personal Trainer & A Top Kettlebell Coach in The UK

October - November 20, 2011 13.

14. October - November 20, 2011

Lady Emma Prima Celebrating 105 Years 105 years ago on August 5, 1906,

a baby girl was born. Emma was the second of six children born to Mr. M.T. and Mrs. Pennie Goosby-Ferguson in San Jacinto County. While residing in San Jacinto County, she worshipped at a Methodist Church. Upon completion of the sixth grade at Salem Elementary, she relocated to Conroe, Texas to complete her education. She joined Keener Baptist Church and was baptized by Pastor D.C. Cobbs.

In 1924, she was joined in marriage to Mr. Charlie Williams (deceased) and in 1925, one daugher (Bernice) was born.

In the year of 1938, she moved to Houston, Texas and joined New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor L.C.Crier. In the year of 1943, Emma moved to San Francisco, California and became gainfully employed as a streetcar operator. She later changed occupations and became the lead dietitian for five area schools.

Upon returning to Houston, Texas, she became owner and operator of a grocery store on

Bennington Street and was a member of the Settegast Civic Club. She later became an honorary member, because she is the oldest member. Lady Emma is highly respected and honored everywhere she goes, even at events she attends. Every year she is honored along with the recipients of the E.L.Edmond Scholarship Foundation, although she’s been requesting a Harvard Scholarship and is still waiting (smile). She is the recipient of numerous accalades but to name a few: She has been recognized and honored at her church, First Shiloh Missionary Baptist; her daughter’s Church, New Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist; and Fort Bend Baptist Church.

Lady Emma Primas always wanted her voice to be heard, and became a registered voter even though she had to pay poll taxes.

She always encouraged others as well as family members to exercise their right to vote for change.

She was honored at the Power Center in 2008 for excercising her right to vote and it was aired on NBC Channel 2 – Houston, Texas. In 2010, she was also ac-

knowledged as being the oldest member by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. at the NW Spring Section Black Tie Affair. Lady Emma sincere-

ly and truly enjoys life. When asked how she is doing her reply is: “I’m stepping up one and sliding back two.”(smile) Lady Emma later retired from the workplace, but never retired from serving Almighty God She joined First Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor B.H. Rob-

Ways to Live to 100

BY Jim Witcher Is it really such a coincidence that our collective fascination with living to be 100 years old corresponds to the maturation of the baby boom generation?

suggests that only 10% of our longevity is based on genetics.

That means 90% of our longevity is determined by our lifestyle choice.

I am on the tail end of that generation so I still get to mock my elders for a little while as they obsess in the mirror at deepening wrinkles and commit to various diet programs and exercise regimes. Not that I don’t do the same. I turned 50 this year so I’m like the twin born 2 minutes earlier than my brother and lording my age over him his entire life.

The premise of Buettner’s book was to study four “blue zones” areas of the planet with a higher percentage of people living past 100 to collect optimal lifestyle patterns that can be distilled into a formula for living longer.

What’s fascinating is to consider whether we have any control over our fate or if we are simply at the mercy of our genes and environment. In the book The Blue Zone by Dan Buettner, the author cites something called the Danish Twin study which

Limit stress through prayer or meditation.

Eat wisely. None of the Blue Zone cultures were strict vegetarians, but all were 80% vegetarian and they limited the quantity of food they ate. Also, all of them drank wine just about every day.

Finally, stay connected through faith or friendships. In other words proactively surround yourself with the right tribe.

These lifestyle suggestions based on the research done in conjunction with National Geographic and the National Institute on Aging can be summarized as follows:

Nothing on this list seems extreme or out of whack. I would guess that there are very few surprises on this list of healthy suggestions for most baby boomers.

But is simply identifying what it takes to live to 100 enough to get there?

Lead a naturally active life, gardening, walking and maintaining relevance by working at what you love past retirement.

The difference between the people that live in the Blue Zones and the rest of us is fairly profound. They were brought

erts (deceased). She was not just a member she served in the following auxiliaries: the choir, Mission and Sunday School.

She was also a member, treasurer, and a matron of The Heroines of Jericho for fifty years.

Lady Emma Primas is still a member of First Shiloh Missionary Baptist and has been for 58 years under the leadership of Pastor John Fields.

At the age of 101, Lady Emma, was still going to the grocery stores, fishing, driving to church and taking her friends wherever they wanted her to take them (smile). She told us that per the game warden, she was the first woman to operate a boat on Galveston Bay in the early seventies. She has retired herself from living alone and driving. Her drivers license expired August, 2010 and yes ……….. it was a valid driver’s license.

of course, only Father Time has slowed her down. On August 4, 2011 Lady Emma made her debut on Great Day Houston, hosted by Debra Duncan. Also appearing on the show was Grammy Award Winner Yolanda Adams and together, they serenaded Lady Emma with their rendition of Happy Birthday.

Lady Emma has been blessed with six generations in her family: one child; four grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sixteen great-great grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild (deceased). Her favorite scriptures are 1st Peter 1:18-19; Hebrews 12:1-2 and Matthew 7:12. Her favorite songs are, “I Will Trust in the Lord” and “Amazing Grace”. She loves her family dearly and always states “Treat people the way you want to be treated and always serve almighty God.”

Former Mayor Bill White and Councilman Jarvis Johnson acknowledged her accomplishments on September 11, 2007 at which time a plaque was presented to her. As the years passed,

That’s My Story!

up in a culture that promoted a healthy lifestyle from an early age. Their subconscious was programmed with healthy habits.

the alternative health community has been advocating for years, but it is only one step in the process of living to be 100 years old. The tricky part is adopting those lifestyle suggestions. We are all fighting years of ingrained subconscious programming. The subconscious is a real part of who we are, so in a way, what I’m suggesting is that we kill a part of ourselves (the negative subconscious) in order to live to be 100.

For those of us brought up in the suburbs of America, for example, we were programmed with unhealthy habits. I have a vivid image of the contents of my lunch box: a hostess ding dong, a slice of bologna on white bread, a bag of Fritos and a small carton of chocolate milk.

I watched about 5 hours of television every day after I got home from school. I’m not making excuses for our culture or criticizing my mom--she was merely a product of our advertising culture in its infancy-- I’m stating a fact. Look at the obesity and diabetes statistics in this country and it is obvious that our subconscious programming is out of whack.

Pointing out regions that have culturally ingrained healthy habits and suggesting we adopt those habits is extremely useful information as it ratifies common sense and much of what

Living to 100 through subconscious suicide, now there’s a book title for you.

What is really needed is a roadmap on how to change our unhealthy habits into healthy habits. We could move to one of the blue zones in Sardinia and apply for citizenship, but our subconscious baggage will travel with us. There is really nothing left, since we do not have the benefit of being brought up in a healthy environment and culture, we must create our own. I think I’ll start by having a glass of red wine.

October - November 20, 2011 15.

Healthy Living

Lady Emma Prima 105yrs old.

16. October - November 20, 2011

Hearing: A Quality of Life Issue

BY Dr. Lacey Brooks

Having a hearing loss can greatly reduce a person’s quality of life.

The good news is most people with a hearing loss can be helped. How big of an issue is hearing loss?

30 million people in America have some type of hearing loss, approximately one out of every ten people. Hearing loss is second only to arthritis as the most common issue for older adults.

However, due to recreational and environmental noise, hearing loss is happening at younger and younger ages. One out of twelve 30 year-olds in the U.S. has some type of hearing impairment. More teenagers are experiencing hearing loss from using earbuds with their phones and music players.

Most hearing loss is caused by being exposed to noise over time. It is important to know that hearing loss is cumulative.

The longer you are exposed to excessive noise, the more damage to your hearing. Hearing loss is an invisible problem that occurs gradually, making it difficult for

family and friends to notice that there is a problem. If loved ones are aware that a hearing problem is present, they often are unable to relate to or understand the difficulties their loved one faces on a day to day basis. This puts

stress on the person with the hearing loss and all those around him/her.

Research has shown that individuals with a hearing loss become less involved and less socially ac-

tive as time goes on. Their lack of participation is directly related to not being able to hear conversation clearly and the fear of responding to questions or comments inappropriately. Hearing impairment quickly becomes a

quality of life issue. Individuals with hearing impairment often withdraw from activities they love and stop engaging in any group activity. Such activities include interacting with their spouse, their children, grand-

children, and friends. People with a hearing loss can become very anxious and temperamental when they are not able to hear properly. A few of the more difficult listening situations include women and children speaking and understanding conversation when around background noise.

There is good news for people dealing with hearing impairment: 90% of hearing losses can be treated with hearing aids.

What should you expect when you first start wearing hearing instruments? Initially, you will hear many sounds that you have most likely not heard in quite some time. Such sounds include the sweet songs of birds chirping, the voices and sounds of your grandchildren, and yes, the blinker in your car. Hearing aids will enhance the clarity of conversations, allow you to hear conversations when surrounded by noise and get you back to participating in life. The technology of today allows help in all of these areas and in some cases, can be done without anyone ever knowing you are wearing a

hearing aid. There are low profile and invisible hearing instruments available.

If hearing loss is impacting your quality of life, it is time to do something about it. A simple hearing test is all you need to get started. Hearing Aid Express offers hearing evaluations at no charge. Call us to make an appointment today.

5201 Bellaire Blvd (Between Rice and Bissonnet) Bellaire, TX 77401 (713) 666-1704 (800) 348-2018 - Toll Free

October - November 20, 2011

SCI, Employment Solutions Learn The Secrets Of How To Gain Weight for the Disabled

BY Sharon Jenkins (Columnist)

BY John J. Albert

Kevin Jackson was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Kevin’s career began in 1990 after graduating from Southern University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Sociology. He took the first job offer in Austin, TX with Travis County Juvenile Court as a juvenile probation officer and quickly rose to become a senior supervisor. He stayed dedicated for 12 years until his father passed away in 2002.

Wanting to be closer to his disabled mother, Kevin moved his family to Houston, TX. After traveling from Houston to Baton Rouge weekly to take care and set up services for his mother, Kevin became very interested in becoming an advocate for individuals with disabilities, thus the birth of SCI Employment Consultants (June 1, 2005). Starting in Beaumont, TX with only a few clients, SCI has now grown to provide employment services

Have you tried to ask some of your friends how to gain weight fast? Well, if you did so I am quite sure that you got a surprised response, right? They will think that you are drunk or something like that. Many people may expect to hear the other question “How to lose weight?” but not to gain weight.

Others will give you a very simple answer to your question, simply eat more. Eating more than you burn is the first thing that you should do to gain weight. But I don’t think that you want to put on fat then hate yourself and try to lose it again.

This increase in your weight should be in the muscle not fat.

So only eating more than you burn is not enough, you need to follow a regular weight training plan to build your muscles and avoid increasing fat stores in your body which is something that you really don’t want to happen.

for individuals with disabilities in Houston, Luffkin, Rosenburg, and Galveston, TX. Kevin enjoys spending time with people who are patient, smart, and funny and have a genuine interest in helping individuals with disabilities.

His vision is to expand the services he provides to a more comprehensive one stop shop equipping people with disabilities for employment. He is currently located in 13 cities throughout Texas. You can contact him at www.sci-employment2010.com.

SCI provides the following services for the disabled: • School to Work Transition • Supportive Employment Services • Job Quest Training • Job Placement • Job Coaching • Personal Social Adjustment • Vocational Adjustment

First thing to do is to know how many calories you consume a day. Simply calculate the calories you consume daily for a week.

Now you can eat more than what you are used to. Consume about 300-400 calories more than what you have calculated in the previous week. Remember that it is not only about eating more but you should pay attention to the type of foods you eat and your weight training program.

Still eating junk food? If yes, this should be the first thing to avoid if you want to get results.

Your diet should contain 2050% carbs. , 30-40% protein and 20-40% fat. Play with these ratios till you get the best results as it is different from one person to the other.

The other very important thing that should be a main part in your plan is weight training.

I am not talking about any exercises here, not talking about cardio exercises, abs exercises or any

17.

other exercises other than weight lifting. The more weight you use the more muscle fibers you will build in your muscles the more muscle you will gain. You should be able to do about 6-12 reps per set, don’t use light weights to increase your reps thinking that it will help you gain more weight.

Rest is a very important thing to get results out of weight training. Train for one hour 2 or 3 times a week and this should be enough. Go easy on yourself or you will harm your muscles, give yourself time to recover and grow.

Now listen up, don’t lose heart and give up just because you didn’t see any results in the first few days of your plan. Remember “No Pain No Gain” it is not a very easy process as you might think but at the same time if many others did it so you can do it too. If you can find someone who has the same goal like you it will be great to work with him or her. Success doesn’t come to LAZY people, “period.”

Source: ArticlesFactory.com ABOUT THE AUTHOR The author also talk about how to gain weight fast for girls on his website >>> http://www. howtogainweightfasttips.com/

18. October - November 20, 2011

October - November 20, 2011 19.

Ruama Camp, Leading a Healthy Life for Abundant Living

BY Gail Mathis

Over two years ago Ruama Camp’s health was compromised as a result of her having high blood pressure. She was taking three medications as a result of its severity. It even caused her to black out on the freeway.

That was over a year ago when her blood pressure was 150/100 versus now it’s a normal 130/85.

She attests that her Ardyss selfcare regiment has improved her health to the point where she is on only one blood pressure medication and can wear her beloved boots because her legs are no longer swelling. She chose Ardyss because it’s a business that promotes health and wellness. In the last nineteen months she has used the product with astounding results. She is now a president with Ardyss International and works her business part-time.

Her Regiment: She takes Green 29 and Omega 369 every times she eats and Le’Vive Juice and Noni Juice, two times a day.

Her Mission: She states that “The # 1 killer in African American communities is our health. As a race, we are nutritionally deprived. We keep working harder doing what we are doing; we never stop to put anything nutritionally in our bodies. We never stop to put ourselves first. If you are in a room with ten people, five of them will say that they are sick and seven of them either have high blood pressure or diabetes.

We don’t know how to take care of ourselves anymore. We have to start trying to educate folks.

It’s my mission to do that by being a living testimony of the product’s success. I took this on because I wanted to be able to teach people where I live.

I saw my mother take 15 bottles of medicine to live and when they gave me three, I decided to try Ardyss. I don’t want to be on kidney dialysis; no I don’t want to do that. The best time to start

is now. Yes nutrition is going to cost a little more, but the problem with us is that nobody has taught us how to value our lives.

Are you saying that your life is not worth a bottle of Le’Vive?

For me, if I never make another dollar from Ardyss International, I will always take the product. It has changed my life and that’s how much I value the product.

I get excited because this is it!

It’s adding longevity to your life.

You don’t know your end date, but you can certainly give God something to bless and multiply by taking care of your temple.”

The Ardyss products are going to add life to your life and give you it more abundantly. Exercise, eat the right food, take the right supplements and it can help you get healthy. Healthy is the new sexy!

*TESTIMONIAL DISCLAIMER: The Distributor testimonials in this article apply only to the individuals depicted, cannot be guaranteed, and should not be considered typical. *INCOME DISCLAIMER: These are examples of incomes earned by some of the most successful Distributors of Ardyss products. These claims are atypical and are not a guarantee of your in-

come, nor typical of average income. In fact, some Distributors may make NO MONEY AT ALL. Results vary and depend on sales volume and ability to sell Ardyss products directly to others. **DSEA DISCLAIMER:The FDA has not evaluated these claims; Ardyss products are not intended to “diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

because the cells in the muscles, liver, and fat do not use insulin properly. Eventually, the pancreas cannot make enough insulin for the body’s needs. As a result, the amount of glucose in the blood increases while the cells are starved of energy. Over the years, high blood glucose dam-

ages nerves and blood vessels, leading to complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, nerve problems, gum infections, and amputation.

Foundation for Health and Dermatology Disparity

BY Dr. Milton D. Moore (Dermatologist) I have started a foundation to deal with common health problems of African Americans.

We also give out information on treatment for hair loss (alopecia) for women. There is extensive information on razor bumps and bumps on the back of the neck that occurs in many black men. We provide monitoring equipment for hypertension and diabetes for people who qualify because of finances will not allow them to purchase it for themselves.

What are the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Nearly 6 million people in the United States have type 2 diabetes and do not know it.

Many have no signs or symptoms. Symptoms can also be so mild that you might not even

notice them. Some people have symptoms but do not suspect diabetes. Many people do not find out they have the disease until they have diabetes complications, such as blurry vision or heart trouble.

Symptoms include • increased thirst • increased hunger • fatigue • increased urination, especially at night • weight loss • blurred vision • sores that do not heal Should I be tested for diabetes?

Anyone 45 years old or older should consider getting tested for diabetes. If you are 45 or older and overweight getting tested is strongly recommended. If you

are younger than 45, overweight, and have one or more of the risk factors, you should consider getting tested. Ask your doctor for a fasting blood glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test. Your doctor will tell you if you have normal blood glucose, pre-diabetes, or diabetes.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose levels are above normal. People with diabetes have problems converting food to energy. After a meal, food is broken down into a sugar called glucose, which is carried by the blood to cells throughout the body. Cells use the hormone insulin, made in the pancreas, to help them process blood glucose into energy.

People develop type 2 diabetes

For more information go to: www.FHDDHEALTH.ORG OR Call: 713-741-3376 (ASK FOR HANK)

20. October - November 20, 2011

Want to retire in 2012? 100 Disability Conditions Apply Now! Plan to start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits in January of 2012? We recommend you apply this October if you’d like your benefits to begin in January.

If the prospect of traveling to an office does not appeal to you, then save yourself a trip and consider the advantages of applying online for Social Security retirement benefits. The Social Security website at www.socialsecurity. gov makes the process easy and convenient.

In most cases, once you submit your online application electronically, that’s it. There are no additional forms to sign or paperwork to complete. In rare cases where we need additional information, a representative will contact you.

You can complete your application for retirement benefits from the comfort of your home or office in as little as 15 minutes.

BY Nikitia Johnson

Then you can celebrate 2012 by receiving your first Social Security payment on time.

If you are not quite ready to retire but are thinking about doing so in the near future, you may want to visit Social Security’s website to use our convenient and informative retirement planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/ retire2. Here you can find out just how close you are to meeting your financial goals and then “bookmark” the website to file for retirement benefits whenever you are ready.

Fast-Tracked

Here’s some important news if you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits for yourself or a loved one. There are 100 conditions which qualify for an expedited process known as Compassionate Allowances.

Compassionate Allowances, which began in December 2007, are a way to quickly identify diseases and other medical conditions that, by definition, meet Social Security’s standards for disability benefits.

We encourage people at any stage in their working career to use the Retirement Estimator for a instant, personalized estimate of future retirement benefits. Find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator.

“We have an obligation to award benefits quickly to people whose medical conditions are so serious they clearly meet our disability standards,” said Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security. “We are now able to do precisely that for 100 severe conditions.”

Remember that you’re always first in line when you go online, to www.socialsecurity.gov.

The Compassionate Allowances conditions are developed

BY Nikitia Johnson

from information received at public outreach hearings, and from the Social Security and Disability Determination Service communities, medical and scientific experts, and the National Institutes of Health. We also consider which conditions are most likely to meet our definition of disability.

“By definition, these illnesses are so severe that we don’t need to fully develop the applicant’s work history to make a decision,” said Commissioner Astrue. “As a result, Social Security has eliminated this part of the application process for people who have a condition on the list, and we can award benefits much more quickly.”

The Compassionate Allowances initiative is one of two parts of the agency’s fast-track system for certain disability claims. When combined with the

Quick Disability Determination (QDD) process, Social Security last year approved the claims of more than 100,000 people, usually in less than two weeks. This year, the agency expects to fasttrack nearly 150,000 cases. Under QDD, a predictive model analyzes specific elements of data within the electronic claims file to identify claims where there is a high potential the claimant is disabled and where evidence of the person’s allegations can be quickly and easily obtained.

For more information on Compassionate Allowances, including a list of all 100 conditions, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ compassionateallowances.

October - November 20, 2011

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22. October - November 20, 2011

October - November 20, 2011

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Kids “Fall” Back into School Sports

BY Dr. Richard Rees

As kids head back to school, they also get back into participating in team and individuals sports. Children active in sports programs will improve their cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems, coordination, and state of mind. In addition, children who participate in sports make friends, have fun, learn to play as a member of a team, learn to play fairly, and improve self-esteem. Every child matures physically at his or her own rate and has a different degree of athletic ability. No amount of training can improve a child’s natural athletic ability, but training helps improve coordination and therefore performance.

Parents should encourage their children to participate in sports but never forget that competition should be fun. One of the most important ways to avoid injuries in all sports activities is stretching and warm-up exercises before beginning the activity.

Warming up helps loosen muscles and prevents injuries in ath-

letes of all ages. In addition, it’s extremely important to wear the correct shoes for the sport. Your podiatrist can help you choose the right shoes for your children.

According to podiatrist, overuse injuries occur from repetitive actions that put too much stress on the bones and muscles. All kids who play sports can develop an overuse injury.

petitive stress. It is common in young athletes and children between 8-14 years of age, when the child’s bones are still in the growth stage and the growth

treatments usually prescribed by a podiatrist for this condition.

Turf Toe is a painful hyperextension of the big toe joint typically caused by playing on artificial

Foot injuries commonly seen in very active children include: Blisters are caused by friction when shoes and socks rub repeatedly on the skin. Keep your child’s feet as dry as possible; wet shoes, boots and socks, will cause blisters far more quickly than dry ones. Consult your local podiatrist to ensure that shoes fit correctly and for treatment of blisters, especially if your child has diabetes.

Sever’s Disease is an injury to a child’s developing foot structure, specifically an inflammation in the heel’s growth plate due to muscle strain and re-

plates have not become solidified. Rest, ice, and a padded heel insert—and in some cases, custom foot orthotics—are some

turf or grass. Children involved in sports played on grass or turf (e.g., baseball, soccer, and

football) should be particularly careful. The remedy is usually “RICE” (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and orthotics (custom devise for shoes) prescribed by your podiatrist.

Shin Splints are micro-tears or inflammation of the anterior leg muscles that cause pain and discomfort on the front of the lower parts of the legs. They are often caused by repeated running on hard surfaces or overtraining at the beginning of a sports season. Some ways of preventing this injury are proper stretching and warm-ups, wearing shoes designed for your child’s sport, and custom orthotics (custom devices for shoes).

Richard Rees, D.P.M., P.A. Board Certified, ABPS Fellow, ACFAS 6565 West loop South, Ste. 101 Bellaire, TX 77401

24. October - November 20, 2011

THE EXPERT NETWORK

October - November 20, 2011

THE EXPERT NETWORK

Sign up on our Online Mailing List @ d-mars.com I t ’s j u s t t h a t s i m p l e !

Call US TODAY! 713.272.9511

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26. October - November 20, 2011

THE EXPERT NETWORK

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