d-mars.com Health & Wellness 25

Health & Wellness Journal Health

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wellness

July 2013

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medical

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research

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sports

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fitness

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Lifestyle

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beauty

Inspire, Inform & Educate

25 th Edition

Healthy Life = Wealthy Life

INSIDE

Your Love/Hate Relationship With Yourself

By Dr. S. Terri Smith One of the most important love relationships you will ever have is with yourself.

PAGE 10

African American Healthy: The Vitamin D3 Connection

By Richard W. Walker, Jr.

This article explores the strong connection between a lack of D3 and chronic diseases.

Research has uncovered a remarkably widespread shortage of vitamin D3 in the bloodstream of the African American populace.

PAGE 12

Happy Feet Are Healthy Feet Dr. Julie Lester, DPM An Inconvenience of Life: Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at Age

By Kelly P. Hodges “It’s all cancer, cancer everywhere......breast cancer.”

PAGE 13

Stewart Cadillac Presents Community Champion of the Month

Inside Cover

Summer Fun and Contact Lenses

By Chelsea K. Francis

Dashing out the door without having to burden yourself with extra clothing after a long winter is a liberating feeling, especially for those who wear contact lenses instead of glasses.

PAGE 22

Dr. Jelita Green-Dathorne, Your Friendly Neighborhood Optometrist

PAGE 6

“Remember, you can earn more money, but when time is spent it is gone forever.”

-Zig Ziglar

July 2013

Journal Behind The

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

This month’s journal’s theme is “Healthy Life = Wealthy Life.” People sometimes equate wealth to having lots of money, but being prosperous in health is worth so much more than a bulging bank account. Celebrate your health this month by making a fresh commitment to be as healthy as you can for the rest of your life. Happy Summer!

As always again, 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 positive things happen.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd MANAGING EDITOR Sharon Jenkins

Contents

OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

Dr. Julie K. Lester of Foundation Foot & Ankle Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Can I Wear My Contacts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine S. Angela White

Dr. Jelita Green-Dathorne, Your Friendly Neighborhood Optometrist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Obesity: More Good Reasons to Avoid the Epidemic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 How to Eat When Eating Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Your Love/Hate Relationship with Yourself . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

PHOTOGRAPHY

Appetizing Appetizers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

African American Healthy: The Vitamin D3 Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Want to Know the Effects of Stress on the Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

An Inconvenience of Life: Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at Age 39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kevin Wright

Children with Speech and Language Disorders Can Be Proud and Confident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Is Our Wealth Connected to Our Health? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Are African American Men at Risk for Oral Cancer? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Guided Meditation Path to Physical and Mental Well Being . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Finding Answers About Health Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Summer Fun and Contact Lenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon C. Jenkins Richard W. Walker, Jr. Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Julie Lester Dr. S. Terri Smith Kelly P. Hodges Sterling Carter Zeb F. Poindexter III Faith Johnson Chelsea K. Francis Sylvia Nae Michael Farrell Jay Soldi Prietto John Dillion Cliff Woods Patricia Davis Dr. Robert Puff Branden Birdsey Rodolfo Roberts Michelle Andrews Chelsea K Francis Dennis Clay Sparkpeople.com Alicia Wheen

The Benefits of Regular Jogging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 The Health Vacation Guide: Eat and Exercise the Right Way, Away from Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Proper Work Life Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Does Your Child Snore? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “A man who dares to waste one hour of life has not discovered the value of life.”

-Charles Darwin

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July 2013

Dr. Julie K. Lester of Foundation Foot & Ankle Centers

D

r. Julie K. Lester, owner and founder of Foundation Foot and Ankle Centers, PLLC, is one of the newest additions to the Houston area podiatric medical community. A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Dr. Lester earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Clark Atlanta University, and her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She received comprehensive forefoot and rearfoot surgical training from the Kern Residency Program at Southeast Michigan Surgical Hospital in Warren, Michigan.

Dr. Lester specializes in the diagnosis and medical and surgical management of disorders affecting the foot and ankle.

She prides herself in offering quality care in a friendly and comfortable environment. Her office is equipped with the latest in electronic health records and digital x-ray systems, resulting in less wait time, and more time spent in patient care and education. She also provides primary foot care for patients in nursing homes, group homes, assisted living, and long-term care facilities.

In her free time, Dr. Lester enjoys participating in local health fairs, giving presentations at local schools, senior centers, and social groups to educate the public

on the podiatric medical profession. She is also a dedicated volunteer for Healthcare for the Homeless-Houston, and was recently voted Living Magazine’s Reader’s Choice for Best Podiatrist in Fort Bend County. When she is not spending time in her practice, Dr. Lester enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family.

Featured Article by Dr. Julie Lester,

Healthy Feet Are Happy Feet You rely on your feet to transport you from point A to point B on a daily ba-

moist, dark areas are the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi that can cause athlete’s foot infections. In addition to keeping the feet clean and dry, using a good moisturizer can prevent cracking and splitting of the skin. One thing to remember, however, is to avoid applying lotions and creams to the areas between the toes.

Choosing the right shoe is also a critical key to happy and healthy feet. The ideal shoe should fit securely, allow adequate room for the toes, and offer breathability.

While flip flops and flat sandals are cool

disorders. You should check for changes in skin texture, such as dryness, flaking, or peeling. These findings could be signs of a fungal infection. Calluses and blisters alert you to areas of increased friction or pressure that could be due to an underlying foot deformity or ill-fitting shoes.

You should also be on the look-out for color changes such as redness, or darkening of the skin. These changes could indicate inadequate circulation or underlying infection.

Our ultimate goal is to be the best that we can be. Because our feet bear the

“Because our feet bear the brunt of our weight-bearing activities, it only seems fitting to ensure their well-being. “ sis, and you would most likely want them to last as long as possible. Taking proper care of your feet can ensure that they remain up to the task. Skincare, adequate shoe selection, and routine self-examination of your feet can ensure that you are ready to expose your toes for the warm weather months.

Taking care of your skin is an important aspect of foot health. You should wash your feet daily with warm soapy water, and make sure to dry thoroughly between the toes afterwards. Warm,

and comfortable, prolonged wear can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. If you are planning a trip to an amusement park, for instance, it is a better idea to choose a shoe that will provide more arch support and shock absorption.

A soft athletic shoe with a sturdy sole would be ideal for walking long distances, and shoes made of mesh or soft leather can allow your feet to breath.

Finally, taking the time to inspect your feet can ensure that you have not missed subtle signs associated with certain foot

brunt of our weight-bearing activities, it only seems fitting to ensure their wellbeing. Following these simple guidelines can put us on the path to happier and healthier feet.

Foundation Foot & Ankle Centers, PLLC Julie K. Lester, DPM 1111 Highway 6 Suite 120 Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-234-7057 Phone 713-272-7202 Fax

Healthy Feet Make You Smile Healthy feet are happy feet, when they hear the rhythm of the beat, they start dancing in the middle of the street. Green meadows beckon stockingless feet in the mid-summer heat. They can’t help but pat-a-tat-tattat to a synchronized tune in the midst of a summer concert on a mellow Sunday afternoon.

Pretty feet with painted toes come out for show but swollen bunions have to stay in because they are as ugly as sin. They ache, groan, and pester their owners for the loving attention of Dr. “Healthy Feet” Lester.

by Sharon C. Jenkins

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July 2013

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6.

July 2013

Can I Wear My Contacts

Dr. Jelita Green-Dathorne, Your Friendly Neighborhood Optometrist

?

By Sharon C. Jenkins Contributing Writer

By Chelsea K. Francis Contact lenses have been proven great lifestyle enhancers and now come in various kinds and styles to accommodate almost any vision condition. Yet, with all the information available concerning contacts, there are times when questions pop up in regard to whether or not a person should wear them in certain situations. The following will hopefully answer some of these questions and clarify any uncertainty.

Can I wear my contact lenses while applying eye makeup? Yes, in fact it is preferable that you insert your contacts before the application if makeup products as a means to minimize the contamination of the lenses. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your contacts. Use only non-allergenic makeup; water-based cream eye shadows are recommended instead of oil-based and powders. If you are a stickler for powder, keep your eyes closed during application and brush away any excess before opening them. Keep eyeliner away from the part of the lashes that are closest to the eye.

When removing makeup, wash and dry your hands and take out your lenses firstalways being careful not to bring them into contact with any makeup.

What about beach and water activities, or sunbathing? Care must be taken when wearing your contacts in lakes, pools, hot tubs, or the ocean. Water in the eyes leaves your lenses subject to infection-causing pathogens. It is recommended that you remove your contacts before going into the water or protect them by wearing swim goggles. Lenses that are splashed with water must be removed immediately and thoroughly cleaned, rinsed, and stored using proper solution. For water activities, daily disposable contact lenses are the best option since they can be removed, thrown away, and replaced with a fresh pair. As for

sunbathing, since the corneas may swell, the tighter lens fit could cause temporary irritation and redness. If you insist on wearing your lenses, put a safe lubricating drop in yours eyes before lying in the sun (your eye doctor can help you choose the right kind). Whether your contacts are in or out during tanning, always use a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses to protect all portions of your eyes.

Can contact lenses be worn in airplanes? Are solutions barred from carryon items? The air in plane cabins tends to be of lower humidity, which can lead to dry eye issues. Lubricating eye drops may help, but in the event of persistent symptoms it is best to do without lenses and wear eyeglasses during flights. But of course individual comfort levels vary.

The Transportation Security Administration’s rules for carry-on liquids* require that saline solutions and eye drops must be in 3-ounce or smaller containers carried in a 1-quart zip-top clear plastic bag.

Any amounts larger than three ounces or not in the 1-quart bag must be declared to security officers at airport checkpoints.

Never feel uncomfortable about asking questions concerning your contact lenses or their wear. Consulting your eye doctor can provide you with the best and most complete information regarding your personal eye health. *Website found at www.tsa.gov.

Chelsea Francis is part of a research and marketing team employed by Contact Lens King in order to keep their customers informed with regard to contact lenses and the industry. Our researchers work hard to keep our prices at the lowest per box pricing at up to 70% savings to the consumer. In addition, we offer free shipping on all orders in the continental USA. Contact Lens King Contact Lens King Blog Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com/ Article/Can-I-Wear-My-Contacts-/241784

Dr. Jelita Green-Dathorne is concerned about you, your eyes to be specific. She is an optometrist with an interesting story and a heart for people. As a young college senior, Green-Dathorne knew she wanted to be a doctor, but was unsure of what type of doctor she wanted to be. She then saw an article featured in Essence Magazine on a female optometrist and became intrigued with that profession.

The featured optometrist was Dr. Linda Johnson, Past President of the National Optometric Association, an organization dedicated to the recruiting of minorities into the profession of optometry and to increasing eye and vision care services in minority communities.

Green-Dathorne’s father is a retired congressman in her home state of Mississippi, and knew Dr. Johnson well. She arranged an interview where Dr. Johnson encouraged her to pursue a career in optometry. Dr. Johnson assured her that optometry was very rewarding and was also an excellent profession for women. After the interview Green-Dathorne researched more about optometry. The more she learned, the more she knew in her heart that this was the right choice for her. She started to work her plan, however, her pathway to the completion of her doctorate degree was not without struggle. The percentage of black students accepted to a school of optometry is usually only 2% -4% of its annual admittance.

Dr. Green-Dathorne attributes her success to her Christian upbringing and to being a fighter. She was determined to conquer any obstacles that stood in the way of her “first love” of professions-optometry. She prayed to get into school and to get through it. She acknowledges and is very grateful for the love of her parents, grandparents, godparents, aunts, uncles and extended family, and for their support through completing her Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees.

She prayed to God and promised Him that if He helped her and allowed her to complete her studies, she would take care of His people. For those seeking this profession, she renders this advice, “When you are seeking an education on this level, you have to be about business. You have to turn off distractions, be focused on your goal and work diligently towards fulfilling it.”

She is not telling you what she thinks;

she knows firsthand the sacrifices needed to accomplish this worthy goal. She is also aware of the challenges African Americans have with their eye care. Her primary concern is our lack of medical care especially in regards to making an annual visit to your optometrist. It is her passion to educate people about the fact that the health of their eyes goes beyond their ability to see well. Dr. Green-Dathorne stated that, “… the actual health of the eyes may be compromised. There are also many diseases that can be diagnosed just by looking inside the eye such as hypertension, diabetes, macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. In many cases there may be no symptoms or eye pain associated with these very serious conditions that could potentially lead to blindness. You only have one set of eyes and it would be very difficult to navigate the world without your vision. So it is very important to come in yearly for a complete eye exam to make sure that there are no disease processes going on, as well as to make sure that your vision is in good shape.”

Dr. Green-Dathorne can be found at Gulf Coast Vision Center in front of Sam’s Club at 1615 South Loop West (at South Loop West and Fannin across from Reliant Park). She is an Optometric Glaucoma Specialist board certified to treat glaucoma, diagnose and treat other eye diseases, co-manage eye surgery and handle complex contact lens fittings and general eye health. Her patients describe Dr. Green-Dathorne’s service as warm and friendly. As a former teacher she also prides herself on educating her patients about everything that’s going on with their eyes, and they leave with a feeling that they have been really well taken care of.

Dr. Green-Dathorne’s hobbies are photography and traveling. She also has volunteered with OneSight, an organization that annually provides free complete eye exams at a designated community center for 3,000-5,000 disadvantaged school aged children from around the city.

Dr. Green-Dathorne is married and has four children, ages: 13, 12, 6, and 8 months. She has a wonderful family and she loves her patients. If you are looking for a friendly eye doctor that knows her stuff, then she is the one for you. She can be contacted at 713-790-0513. If you haven’t had your exam for the year, then now would be an excellent time to get one and Gulf Coast Vision Center is a great place to start!

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July 2013

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8.

July 2013

OBESITY: MORE GOOD REASONS TO AVOID THE EPIDEMIC

By Sterling Carter Contributing Writer

According to a survey sponsored by ABC News, USA Today, and Stanford University Medical Center, over 50 percent of Americans are spending their lives dealing with reoccurring and chronic pain. If you’re one of those people, you just might want to check your waistline.

The survey showed that while about half the participants could pinpoint a condition or injury as a cause of the pain, just as many couldn’t come up with a specific cause. Other research suggests that pain may be the result of excess pounds.

Among the most common areas that those surveyed indicated as a source of pain is the knee. A study reported in the Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery looked at how a person’s weight affected how well they responded to treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. The study specifically looked at how women between the ages of 30 and 55 responded to knee surgery since the condition is more common in women than in men.

The study showed that women who were overweight were much more likely to report less satisfaction with the results of the

surgery than women of normal weight.

This was especially true in relationship to their ability to perform everyday physical activities, like walking and climbing stairs, and in their general attitude toward life.

Sadly, it’s not just adults who are suffering the ill effects of excess weight.

More and more children are being classified as overweight and even obese. In fact, another study published in Pediatric Physical Therapy states that the number of children and teens who are overweight increased threefold between 1980 and 2000, and that number just continues to rise.

While childhood obesity serves as a pretty accurate predictor of health problems that could be encountered during the adult years, it also poses many risks during childhood. Among the many problems that may occur in obese children are: • Spinal Issues: Overweight children don’t develop enough spinal bone mineral content to support the extra weight they carry. This may lead to a weakening of the spine and increased incidence of back pain.

• Hip Problems: Children who are overweight are at greater risk for a condition called Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, or SCFE, which occurs when the growing end of the femur (the thigh bone) slips from the hip socket. Overweight children may experience the

condition more frequently because of the excess pressure placed on the hip joint.

• Blount Disease: Blount disease is a disorder of the skeleton that causes the legs to bow. There are two types of Blount disease -infantile and adolescent. Studies have shown that obese infants (between one and three years of age) are much more likely to have Blount disease than are infants of normal weight.

Adolescent Blount disease is also most prevalent in those who are overweight.

In fact, approximately 90 percent of all reported cases occur in black males who are classified as morbidly obese.

• Increase in Broken Bones: Obesity has also been linked to a higher rate of broken bones in children. Fractures are most common in children during growth spurts. Children who are overweight may not have sufficient bone

development to withstand blows that wouldn’t cause breaks in children of normal weight. This may be because of a lack of physical activity, which helps increase bone density, or it may simply be because an overweight child falls harder than one who is not overweight.

Although we know that obesity is caused by overeating, it’s impossible to reduce weight in a healthy manner without following a proper exercise routine.

Therefore, if you or someone you care about is experiencing reoccurring or chronic pain-especially when the source is unidentified-it’s a good idea to discuss an exercise routine with your healthcare professional. Your physical therapist will be able to suggest exercises that you can safely perform to help strengthen your body while reducing your weight.

Until Next Month, Thanks from Sterling Carter, PT, MS, CSCS

How to Eat When Eating Out

By Sylvia Naer Order dressing and condiments on the side: Some of us may go the healthy route and order a salad at a restaurant. However, a restaurant can make a salad as unhealthy as a plate of buffalo chicken wings and mozzarella sticks.

Most of us choose not going out to eat if we are on a fitness program that demands that we eat clean and correct. We as human beings usually have to choose, are we going to treat our selves or stick to the diet? But, we don’t have to make that choice because there are multiple ways we can do both!

Remember that you need to have portion control when you order: It’s pretty easy to scarf down a whole plate of food that you weren’t even hungry enough to finish. Self-control is one of the hardest things to accomplish especially when at a restaurant. An easy way to get around this is ordering a to go box when ordering your meal. When the food arrives, put half of the food in the box and eat the remaining half. You’ll be surprised as to how full you really are! Another way is to order half portions if this option is available at the restaurant. Appetizers as meals are also a great way to save money while keeping the portions down.

Always order condiments and dressing on the side: Some of us may go the healthy route and order a salad at a restaurant. One must watch out because a restaurant can make a salad as unhealthy as

a burger. The key importance to ordering sauces on the side is it gives you the ability to use as much as you like. I often choose to get vinegar over Caesar and Ranch and I request it on the side of the salad.

Water is the way to go: Treating yourself at a restaurant is very tricky. Sometimes we treat ourselves in every part of the meal. We’ll order a coca cola, a cheeseburger with fries and an ice cream sundae. However, it’s important to have a give and take relationship with being healthy. Requesting water at a restaurant is key because you can drink as much as you want and not have to worry about the side effect. There’s no stress about ordering refills plus it provides as a great appetite suppressor so you don’t eat more than you really need.

Evil Sides: Most side dishes are usually fried or covered in an unhealthy sauce.

Always think healthy before eating. The simplest option is always the easiest. This is could be a side salad or soup.

Not all healthy foods are healthy at a restaurant: Most restaurants double the normal portion of food someone should eat when dining out. The problem is this adds more calories to your dinner. Also an appetizer like a baked potato could be smothered in cheese, sour cream and bacon bits and would defeat the purpose of a healthy meal. Eating healthy will provide you with the energy you need to complete your in home personal training session Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

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July 2013

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July 2013

Your Love/Hate Relationship With Yourself

By Dr. S. Terri Smith Contributing Writer

O

ne of the most important love relationships you will ever have is with yourself.

The level of love you extend to yourself determines the level of love you give to and receive from everyone around you. There are times when you may feel insecure, inadequate or even flawed. How you handle these negative emotions will set you up for either a healthy self-image or a negative one.

Loving yourself may sound strange. It sounds as if I’m telling you to put your own needs ahead of everything and everyone around you. Be careful not to confuse self-love with self-centeredness. The latter involves your attempt to preserve yourself and to seek only what is good for you.

You pursue those things that make you feel good even at the expense of others.

However, loving yourself simply means that you are taking care of, appreciating and valuing you. And believe it or not, this is the first step towards loving others.

Mark 12:31…You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Your ability to love others is based on a healthy love relationship with yourself. When you try to love someone without loving yourself, you are giving out of your own emptiness. But when you respect God and who He created you to be, you bring balance to your life. You gain strength and you no longer need others to validate you.

Moving from self-hatred to self-love is not difficult, but it will require commitment and effort. With four simple steps, you can begin to see the value God placed in you and be on the path toward developing a healthy love for yourself.

(1) Put God first. Get up in the morning and make time for meditation. God will honor those who honor Him. He will put something in your heart that will

give you the ability to honor and respect the ‘you’ He created you to be.

(2) Silence the inner-critic. No more negative words about yourself. This is not to say you don’t have flaws and make mistakes. It just means you aren’t going to condemn yourself for them. If someone says something negative to you, you can refute his or her words. But if you say something negative about yourself, who is going to refute your words? When you continue to put yourself down, you operate in a form of self-hatred. Words are powerful; make sure you use yours to build yourself up.

(3) Remind yourself daily that you are priceless. Tell yourself that God loves you and that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. This may be difficult because you have conditioned yourself to only hear and receive negative words. But the value of a thing is not determined by how much it costs. The value of something is determined by who made it. Who made you? Last I checked you were created in the image and likeness of God. Allow Him to reveal your value.

(4) Get over being perfect. Surrender the idea that you have wings and a halo.

You are not perfect. Perfectionism is actually the lowest possible standard that you can attempt to achieve. It sets you up for failure and disappointment. It causes you to set impossible goals for yourself, which puts undue pressure on you and those around you. Instead of perfection, strive for excellence. Excellence means that you will always do your best. You don’t lash out at those who don’t meet your standards. You’re patient with others and you’re tolerant of their imperfections.

This makes you a better you.

These may seem like four simple steps.

Yet, with years of negative programming to break through, it will take time for you to see lasting results. Don’t beat yourself up if you fall back into old habits. The race isn’t given to the swift, but to those who endure. Begin right now by saying out loud, “I love myself and I have value.”

Apply these steps and watch your love for yourself grow.

Dr. S. Terri Smith is the author of Developing the D.I.V.A. in You! and can be found at www.lmfc.org.

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July 2013

Baked Crab Ragoon by CHEF_MEG Ingredients Marinade:

• 1 can (6 oz) white crabmeat, drained, flaked • 4 oz Cream Cheese (1/3 less fat) • 1/4 cup sliced green onions • 1/4 cup Light Mayo • 12 won ton wrappers

11.

APPETIZING APPETIZERS Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350.

2. Mix crabmeat, cream cheese, onions and mayo.

3. Spray 12 medium muffin cups with cooking spray.

Gently place 1 won ton wrapper in each cup allowing edges of wrappers to extend above sides of cups.

Fill evenly with crabmeat mixture.

4. Bake 18 to 20 min. or until edges are golden brown and filling is heated through. Serve warm.

CRISPY BACKED EGG ROLLS by CSHOLL24 Ingredients Marinade:

• 2 tbsp. oil • 16 oz. bag of coleslaw mix • 4 green onions, chopped • 1 1/2 cup bean sprouts • 1 tbsp. white wine • 2 tbsp. oyster sauce • 2 tbsp. soy sauce • 8.5 oz. can tiny shrimp • 1 tbsp. cornstarch • 20 egg roll wrappers

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add coleslaw, green onions, bean sprouts, wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and shrimp. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until cabbage is wilted. Mix cornstarch with 1 tbsp. cold water and add. Stir for about 1 minute, until sauce is thickened.

3. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Place 1/4 cup of the mixture on the middle of an eggroll wrapper, turned like a diamond.

4. Fold the bottom corner up, over the filling. Fold in the two sides, then roll upwards. Put a dab of water on the corner to help it stick. Place on the pan seam down.

5. Repeat until you run out of the mixture, about 20 rolls. Eggrolls can be close, but not touching. Spray the tops with cooking spray and bake for 15 minutes, until golden brown. Serve with sweet & sour sauce or spicy mustard.

Chicken Satay with Vegetables by HARV47 Ingredients Marinade:

• 1 T coconut milk • 1 T brown sugar • 2 T low-sodium soy sauce • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1 t cumin • 1 lemon, juiced

Vegetables and Chicken:

• 16 oz chicken breast, boneless and skinless, diced into 3/4 inch cubes • 1 T peanut oil • 2 c carrots, shredded • 1 onion, sliced • 1 c mushrooms, sliced • 1 c broccoli florets • 1 c sugar snap peas • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

Directions

1. Prepare marinade by placing all ingredients in a glass dish. Toss diced chicken into the dish and coat in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

2. Prepare the sauce by combining all ingredients into a small saucepan. Start with 1/2 cup of warm water and add more if mixture seems thick. Place on the stove over low heat to warm. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and stir fry in 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a wok or flat bottomed pan. Stir fry over high heat until meat is completely cooked, remove from pan and reserve. While wok or flat bottomed pan is still hot, add onions and carrots.

Stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add mushrooms, broccoli, snap peas, pepper. Continue to stir fry for 3-4 minutes. Add chicken back into the wok along with the sauce. Heat until mixture for 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is hot.

Sauce:

Ready Set Cook!

• 1/4 cup natural, no salt added peanut butter • 1 lemon, juiced • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 1 T hot curry paste (use mild if you don’t like much heat) • 3 T low-sodium soy sauce • 1 T light coconut milk • 1/2-3/4 c water

Photos Provided by: CHEF_MEG HARV47 CSHOLL24 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2013 sparkpeople.com

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July 2013

African American Healthy: The Vitamin D3 Connection

By Richard W. Walker, Jr. MD Contributing Writer

I

n the first two articles I presented the issue of “What If,” dispelling the notion that the chronic diseases experienced by our forefathers and mothers were not genetic and are environmental. Therefore, they are subject to be controlled. In the second article the effect of the environmental exposures was presented, in particular, food. Briefly, the connection between vitamin D3 was made toward the cause and effect of low vitamin D3 (D3), skin color and food intake.

This article explores the strong connection between a lack of D3 and chronic diseases. Research has uncovered a remarkably widespread shortage of vitamin D3 in the bloodstream of the African American populace. A study published in Scientific American revealed that approximately 97 percent of its 3,419 black Americans participants showed a deficiency in vitamin D3. Shockingly, only 3 percent of black Americans displayed the recommended amount of this vitamin in their systems, down from 12 percent

only a few decades earlier. These statistics are highly troubling when you consider the importance of vitamin D3 to human health. Evidence now shows that it plays a major role in the prevention and treatment of such illnesses as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, stroke, and cancer. It seems as though every condition that has been wreaking havoc on the black community can be directly connected to low levels of vitamin D3 in the body, from which almost the entire black population suffers.

Vitamin D3 is known as the “sunshine vitamin” because sunlight is required for the body to manufacture it. This rule applies to everybody on the planet, not just blacks and other dark-skinned racial groups. As you probably know from countless sunscreen commercials, the body is bombarded on a daily basis by UV (short for ultraviolet) rays from the sun. While too much UV light exposure can be harmful to our health, a certain amount is necessary for our systems to function properly. The absorption by the skin of one particular kind of UV light, called UVB rays, promotes the production of vitamin D3 in the body. As an African American, the dark pigmentation of your skin causes less of these UVB rays to be absorbed. Our dark skin produced sufficient levels of vitamin D3 from the abundance of sunlight while simultaneously safeguarding us from the ill-effects

of too much ultraviolet light.

Vitamin D comes from the cholesterol in your body’s cells and is fat-soluble.

As most of the body’s tissues have fat in them, it is easily absorbed. Vitamin D is not only a vitamin but also a pro-hormone, which means it is a precursor to a hormone. Hormones are chemicals in the body that stimulate and repress the functions of other cells. In other words, they tell cells what to do and what not to do. Once vitamin D gets converted by the skin, liver, or kidneys, it takes on hormone-like properties, essentially becoming a hormone itself. Five forms of vitamin D exist, though only two of them are relevant to humans. These two forms are vitamin D2 (called ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (called cholecalciferol). While there is some debate regarding which form is best to take as a supplement, most physicians now recommend D3 because it has proven to be the more bioactive of the two, which simply means that it does what it is supposed to do more effectively.

While nothing produces vitamin D3 quite like sunshine, there are other ways to get the nutrient. Natural food sources of vitamin D3 include fish such as salmon, tuna, and eel; as well as cod liver oil.

There are also small amounts of the vitamin in cheese and egg yolks. Though some types of mushrooms contain vitamin D, it is in the less bioactive form of vitamin D2, which makes them the least ideal food source. Therefore, taking a vitamin D3 as a supplement is very important to your health and your family’s.

I recommend that everyone be tested for vitamin D3. It’s a simple blood test looking for vitamin D3 as 25(OH) D3.

This is the formula you want to tell your healthcare provider to test for. That’s because there are many other vitamin D test but the one you want is the one mentioned. Your goal is to get the D3 blood level to at least 50 ng/ml. The normal range for vitamin D3 is 30-100ng/ ml. Your daily intake of D3 should range between 2,000 and 5,000 IUs per day.

Many people will say that this dose is too high. It isn’t, because if you were to be in the sun for 4 hours without a shirt on your body would make 50,000 IUs during that time. There’s much more information on vitamin D3 and its health benefits in my book “African American Healthy”, 2011 (Square One publishers, NY). It can be obtained through the publisher or Amazon.com.

Want to Know the Effects of Stress on the Body

By Jay Soldi Prietto

T

he consequences of stress on the body may be light, but over the long run they are deadly.

The quick-time period effects of stress on the human body are well known. After we are below stress, we’ve got elevated coronary heart charge, ideas that race, tense muscles, and adrenaline rushes. With extreme stress, we will get agitated and have a hard time sitting still.

Stress is mainly the human our bodies fight or flight mechanism kicking in. The effects of stress on the mind are equally effectively-known. We will get paranoid, frightened, aggressive, or hyperactive.

It varies significantly from individual to individual, but it is fairly simple to tell whenever you or somebody you recognize is under a right away stress. Then once more, the lengthy-time period results are way more subtle.

The lengthy-term effects of stress on the body might be much more alarming.

Though it has taken science a very long time to acknowledge this truth, stress shortens our lives. The consequences of stress on the body are tremendous. Elevated danger of coronary heart disease, nervous breakdowns, abdomen ulcers, pressure headaches, and an elevated susceptibility to an infection are just a few of

the issues that stress can do to us.. There’s not a single impact of stress on the physique that isn’t detrimental. Although in the brief run, stress can be a good thing - giving us the flexibility to react to the state of affairs quickly and resolve it as instantly as attainable - in the long term, it’s all the time a bad thing. Yet many people stay with stress day in and day out for years at a time.

There are medications that can help us deal with stress, however none of these really present a solution. The only method to cope with the results of stress on the body is to get some help. Help can come in the form of remedy, meditation, counseling, or massages. Basically, something that relaxes you and that you just do frequently, is an efficient antidote to stress.

The results of stress on the body, nonetheless, may finally require you to vary your lifestyle. You may have to work much less, spend more time doing things that you enjoy, and usually learn to relax. This isn’t such a foul factor! Within the process of fighting the consequences of stress on the mind and body, additionally, you will study to get pleasure from your life. What else is life for, in spite of everything?

Also visit: Online Personal Loans Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com/ Article/Want-To-Know-The-Effects-Of-StressOn-The-Body-/255819

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July 2013

13.

An Inconvenience of Life: Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at age 39

“It’s all cancer, cancer everywhere......breast cancer.”

By Kelly P. Hodges Contributing Writer

W

ords no woman wants to hear, especially a 39 year old wife and mother of two beautiful girls. In the United States, one in nine African American women may get breast cancer during her lifetime. Only 5% of breast cancer diagnoses are made in women under the age of 45, but yet every year in the United States over 1500 young African American women are diagnosed with breast cancer.

LaTonya was diagnosed with the most common type of breast cancer, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC), stage II in August of 2011 just one month shy of her birthday.

IDC is a cancer that starts in the milk passages (ducts) of the breast and then breaks through the duct wall, where it invades the fatty tissue of the breast. IDC accounts for about 80% of all breast cancers.

LaTonya, a nutritionist at an area college, was healthy, exercised regularly, and lived a normal life. She detected a lump during a self-breast exam. Unlike many women, LaTonya did not procrastinate or make any assumptions about the lump.

LaTonya discovered the lump on a Sunday and scheduled an appointment with her doctor the following Wednesday. She knew it was not “normal” for her and wanted to have it checked. “Early detection was in my favor, she gleams. You’re prepared for a high blood pressure or diabetes diagnosis, but NOT breast cancer!"

With no family history of breast cancer, her diagnosis was a complete surprise.

After hearing the diagnosis, LaTonya kicked into survivor mode. "Faith and family is what carried me and what is carrying me through this inconvenience of life,” LaTonya adds.

After receiving the news and telling her family, LaTonya’s breast cancer journey began. Her treatment included four months of chemotherapy a double mastectomy, and several weeks of radiation. It was during LaTonya’s chemotherapy cycle that she was tested for the BRCA gene and although there was no mutation detected, she elected to have a double mastectomy.

The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation (gene defects) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In normal cells, these genes help prevent cancer by making proteins that help keep the cells from growing abnormally. If you have inherited a mutated copy of either gene from a parent, you have a high risk of developing breast cancer during your lifetime. These cancers

tend to occur in younger women (under the age of 45) and more often affect both breasts than cancers in women who are not born with one of these gene mutations.

During her treatment, LaTonya discovered several local breast cancer organizations, but only one was designed specifically for her with a network of women who looked like her, Sisters Network® Inc. (SNI). As the leading voice and only National African American breast cancer survivor-run organization in the United States, LaTonya knew she had found a great resource, a hidden jewel. As fate would have it, LaTonya's survivorship journey led her to SNI as the organization was developing the Young Sisters Initiative (YSI). When breast cancer strikes women under the age of 45, African American women have the highest rates of any racial group. YSI is a useful tool for caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates and anyone with an interest in breast health in the African American community. The online program is (www.sniyoungsisters.com) designed to provide, young African American breast cancer survivors, with important health information and support. When visitors access the website, they will be asked to register and take a brief survey. This step only takes a few seconds to complete.

Breast cancer survivors may also be asked to participate in a brief survey after accessing the YSI website to help improve the program and meet the needs of African American breast cancer survivors.

LaTonya says her family and social support, including Sisters Network have been her strength. I believe my diagnosis was for a reasonn. I am now in a position to tell my story.....gives my testimony and give hope to other young women diagnosed with breast cancer," says LaTonya.

Source for Data/Statistics: www.sniyoungsisters.com and www.cancer.org.

Kelly P. Hodges is the National Program Director for Sisters Network® Inc. For more information visit www.sniyoungsisters.com or call us at /-866-781-1808.

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July 2013

Are African American Men at Risk for Oral Cancer?

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Contributing Writer

Yes, African American men are one of the groups at highest risk for oral cancer—but many don’t know it.

Most cases of oral cancer are linked to cigarette smoking, heavy alcohol use, or the use of both tobacco and alcohol together. In fact, using tobacco plus alcohol poses a much greater risk than using either substance alone.

Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) may also play a part in oral cancer.

It’s not just smokeless tobacco (“dip” and “chew”). Using tobacco of any kind, including cigarettes, puts you at risk for oral cancer. The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Most oral cancers occur after age 40.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

Possible Signs & Symptoms • A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in your mouth, lip, or throat • A white or red patch in your mouth • A feeling that something is caught in your throat • Difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue • Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth • • Swelling of your jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable • Pain in one ear without hearing loss • Be on the lookout for any changes in your mouth, especially if you smoke or drink.

What should you do if you have symptoms?

See a doctor or dentist if any symptoms last more than two weeks.

Most often, symptoms (like those listed in the previous section) do not mean cancer. An infection or another problem can cause the same symptoms. But it’s important to get them checked out—because if you do have cancer, it can be treated more successfully if it’s caught early.

Ask for an oral cancer exam. It’s quick, painless, and it could save your life.

About Oral Cancer The term oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth and the pharynx (FAIRinks), part of the throat.

The Oral Cancer Exam An oral cancer examination can detect early signs of cancer. The exam is painless and takes only a few minutes. During the exam, your doctor or dentist will check your face, neck, lips, entire mouth, and the back of your throat for possible signs of cancer.

Children with Speech and Language Disorders Can Be Proud and Confident

“The most basic of human needs is the need to understand and be understood.”

-Ralph Nichols

sional for evaluation and/or treatment. * difficulty with reading, writing, and/

By Faith Johnson or spelling Contributing Writer * problems understanding what the

teacher says Effective communication is necessary for a child to develop confidence and self* needs to have directions frequently esteem. A speech or language problem repeated can affect: * jumps from one subject to another Learning: Some children may have when talking problems with learning in the classroom. * difficulty remembering information Language skills are directly related to * cannot carry on a simple conversa reading, writing, and spelling.

tion Relationships: Due to frustration at You can help promote good speech and not being able to communicate these children may not interact as much with other language skills and learn how to commuchildren. Isolation and feeling unaccepted nicate effectively with someone who has a speech and/or language disorder. Help may result.

Well-Being: Emotional problems may your child develop good communications develop as a result of embarrassment, re- skills. Talk a lot with your child. This will help your child learn new words. Readjection or poor self-image. ing to your child every day improves Parents should be aware of early red early literacy and language skills. Listen flags of a speech and language disorder. If to and respond when your child talks your child is in pre-school (2-5 years old) and give your child time to answer quesand have some of the following character- tions. Don’t interrupt or try to finish his/ istics, consult a professional for evaluation her sentences. Our lives are so busy and and/or treatment: complex that we as parents forget to take the time to relate and communicate with * refuses to talk, mostly quiet our children. * cannot point to or name common Children with speech and language pictures or objects disorders can lead happy and productive * confused when asked to do some lives. Develop good communications thing skills at home and be alert for warning * points or uses one word to ask for signs. Early treatment is the key to pre things venting a speech or language disorder * does not enjoy listening to stories or from turning into a lifelong disability. If you suspect a problem, get professional following along in a book help. If you need additional information * speech is not understandable contact: Express Yourself Clearly, LLC at 713-771-8444. * struggles to get words out If your child is school-age (5 to 12 years old) and you have noticed any of the following characteristics, consult a profes-

Article Source: http://www.asha.org/public/ speech/disorders

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July 2013

Guided Meditation Path to Physical and Mental Well Being

By Dr. Robert Puff

I

f stress and anxiety are taking over your life, you should get help of guided meditation as your stress management resource. Learn how to meditate and free your mind of worries in order to lead a healthy and peaceful life.

The high-speed lifestyle that all of us lead today doesn’t leave us much of choice other than juggling a number of tasks. Some of your time is spent enlisting the jobs that are needed to be done, some carrying out the jobs and the rest in worrying about the ones that you weren’t able to finish. All this leaves you stressed out.

Meditation is a great way to shift your focus from anxiety to peace. It is a complementary medicine that cures all three, mind, body and soul of a person. Meditation can help you release stress and lead a happy and peaceful life.

By providing a state of relaxation, it helps you remove the troubled thoughts that cloud your mind and cause stress.

Moreover, it helps you focus your attention resulting in improved physical and metal well-being. Studies have found that meditation is beneficial in treating various health conditions that are worsened by stress. Some of them are high blood pressure, chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping habits, depression and others. Furthermore, it also helps you control your anger and anxiety.

When you meditate, all your tensions

seem to go away. Releasing stress isn’t just limited to the meditation session, it gradually eliminates the stress from your life given that you practice it on a regular basis. The true profoundness of meditation lies in the stability that you develop overtime. It helps you lead a life that remains unperturbed by anxiety and stress.

Though difficulties will still come along at times, you will be able to handle them with much ease and won’t be troubled by negative thoughts.

The technique of meditation requires much practicing and can be mastered overtime. For learning to meditate, however, you need the guidance of an expert.

Searching online is the easiest way to find an experienced meditation practitioner.

There are some experts who provide online podcast about meditation. From teaching you the basics as well as the latest findings on meditations, helping you achieve a relaxed state of mind to guided meditations for listening while you meditate, they share expert tips and help you find what works best for you to release tension.

Listening to a podcast is so much a better option for learning to meditate than reading about it. During a meditation podcast, you are guided by the soothing voice of a meditation expert to help you relax. Since your mind needs reason to be calm and peaceful, it should be preferred if someone guides you, taking your mind off the worries and helping you find inspiration to feel fresh and relaxed. You need

someone who holds years of experience in meditation to free you of your stress.

Besides the online meditation podcast, several clinics also hold meditation sessions where you can join meditation gurus as well as others coping with stress.

Find one such clinic in your city and take an action against the stress that continues to rise. Don’t wait until you have a breakdown! Contact a clinical psychologist who specializes in meditation to help you control your stress before your body

goes into a tailspin.

This article has been written by an expert associated with Dr. Robert Puff, an experienced clinical psychologist Newport Beach office of Dr. Puff has seen many people walk in and get help in managing their stress.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com/ Article/Guided-Meditation---Path-to-Physical-And-Mental-Well-being/260526

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July 2013

Is Our Wealth Connected to Our Health?

By Michael Farrell

H

ave you noticed the correlation between health and wealth? Since most successful people take care of their bodies, as well as the other aspects of their life, this short article will reveal several simple, small, and easy-to-do changes that can be made to our daily routine and diet (frequently referred to as The 1% Solution – 100 days to maximum wealth, health, and wisdom), so we will set the stage for big rewards in the near future!

Heavier people are generally not as financially healthy. The excess weight is frequently caused by consuming too much food. Today, all across the globe, we tend to eat a lot of fast food. The money goes out of the wallet and the pounds go on the body.

The extra five or six bucks you spend a day tallies up to a lot of excess calories and over $140,000 in lost money over thirty years. If you forego the extra food such as desserts or super-sized helpings, then sock away the six bucks a day (estimated cost of the extra food), and earn 5% interest on your money, you could be almost $150,000 richer when you face retirement.

You would have less fat on the body and more fat in your bank account.

The more you eat leads to a lifestyle that frequently includes more medical problems and these problems are the most costly expenses people face in life.

Overweight individuals tend to have more doctor visits because their body cannot support the weight. Many knee replacements could be avoided if people would lose the weight. Illness and chronic diseases tend to affect obese people more.

Recovery time for an injury, or surgery, takes longer for larger people and that ends up costing more.

Besides higher medical bills, try getting inexpensive life insurance when you are overweight. If you get coverage at all, you pay a lot more for it. Statistics show that obese people live seven years less than average weight people. Giving up seven years of your life and having less money while you are alive, does not make sense.

When you start taking care of your body, you feel so much better. It energizes you and affects all areas of your life. When you start eating healthier, you can see the change in your body. It creates a healthier mind and with a healthier mind, you are better able to concentrate on finances and take care of the business side of your life.

Our nutrition routine can be as simple as: staying hydrated by drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day; eating 6 little meals instead of 3 standard meals a day; and snacking throughout the day on nuts,

fresh fruit, and pre-cut fresh vegetables.

By weaving our fitness routine throughout our day, we can prevent wasting time and money at the gym and avoid expensive workout gear in our home. Our fitness routine can be as simple as: starting the day with a brisk 10 minute workout (push-ups, setups, jumping jacks, or a power walk) and isometric exercises, performed throughout the day, that can be performed at your desk, in the kitchen, or in the bathroom, using the counter top as support.

Studies have shown that larger folks actually make less money. If money motivates you, then following reverse logic, you would want to get healthy first and then get wealthy.

Taking care of your body now will lead to very soon taking care of your financial health. Maybe this is the motivation you need!

If you can control certain things in your life, don’t you want to control these things? Instead of going on a diet, don’t you want to change your thinking about food and eating? Instead of wasting time and money at the gym, don’t you want to change your thinking about fitness and learn the simple exercises and stretches that use your body as your gym and avoid the wear and tear on joints or ligaments?

You can get in shape both physically and financially. Stop making excuses and begin today to get in the best shape of your life; your pocketbook will thank you. And, as Nike says, Just Do It! As mentioned in a previous article, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Chief Medical Correspondent at CNN, has reported that “Practical Immortality may now be within our grasp.”

So now the question becomes, “how do we slow the rate of aging and avoid the frailty that would make longevity less desirable?”

With antioxidant supplements, we can slow our rate of aging; with a nutrition

and fitness routine, we can avoid frailty and improve our health; and with an industry leading business opportunity, we can make great money, generate financial wealth, and enjoy our longer lives.

I hope you enjoyed the article with ways to fight back against the conspiracy for your health and how our wealth is connected to our health. Let me know what you think.

http://www.myLifesAdvantageToday. com Mike Farrell is a Marketing Consultant, works with businesses to use Internet Marketing for their advertising and PR needs, and develops campaigns that drive highly qualified traffic to online properties for commercial purposes.

Article Source: http://www.articlebiz.com/ article/1051392428-1-is-our-wealthconnected-to-our-health/

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July 2013

Finding Answers About Health Coverage

By Michelle Andrews About half of Americans say they don’t know how the Affordable Care Act will affect them. Four in 10 think it has been repealed or overturned, or they are unsure where it stands. So chances are good that when the major provisions kick in next year, including online health insurance marketplaces and new standards for health plan costs and coverage, people are going to have questions. Lots of questions. When they do, the biggest one of all may be where to turn for answers.

There may not be a simple solution.

Depending on where people live and the type of coverage they have, the assistance that’s available and where to find it may vary considerably.

Health policy experts and consumer advocates “are concerned about consumers falling through the cracks and not having clear information about where to go for what,” says Sabrina Corlette, a research professor who directs Georgetown University’s Center on Health Insurance Reforms.

It wasn’t supposed to be this way. The health-care overhaul envisioned a nationwide network of state-run Consumer Assistance Programs, or CAPs, supported by federal funds. Building on existing state insurance department programs and community-based services, the CAPs would provide one-stop health insurance assistance for people with private coverage and would advocate on their behalf with insurers.

More From This Series Insuring Your Health In the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the passage of the healthcare law, however, 15 states with Republican governors refused to apply for CAP grants, and two more returned their funding after Republican governors were elected, according to a Health Affairs study published in February.

Program funding has been inadequate, experts say. Following an initial $30 million appropriation for CAP in 2010, the Department of Health and Human Resources awarded nearly $20 million two years later, in August 2012. In contrast, the annual budget for the Medicare program’s help line is $250 million, the Health Affairs study noted.

Some states have been creative about patching together CAP funding, says Karen Pollitz, a research fellow at the Kaiser Family Foundation. But funding uncertainty continues.

Consumer Assistance Programs are operating in 21 states, including Maryland, and in the District. The quality of the assistance provided through these and other assistance programs varies widely, says Mark Schlesinger, a professor of health policy at Yale who co-authored the Health Affairs study. Some of the programs are aggressive advocates for consumers, he

says. In other states, however, “they’re explaining the law rather than advocating for people.”

Angela Gavin of Troy, N.Y., turned to the program for guidance sorting through an insurance dispute and found the program helpful. When Gavin, 58, had a colonoscopy in February to screen for colorectal cancer, her insurer said she owed $1,150 of the $4,745 bill. The insurer said that because the doctor had found and removed a polyp, the procedure was no longer a routine screening and she would have to pay a portion of the cost.

But under the ACA, preventive cancer screenings such as colonoscopies are covered without patient cost-sharing even if a polyp is found.

Gavin noticed an 800 number at the bottom of her insurance form for Community Health Advocates, which runs New York’s CAP. An advocate at the program worked with Gavin to file an appeal.

She’s awaiting the result.

“Thank God for that 1-800 number at the bottom of the form, because otherwise I would probably just have paid the bill,” Gavin says. “I wouldn’t have known what to do.”

Consumers can check the federal government’s healthcare.gov Web site for links to CAPs and other insurance assistance programs in their state. State insurance departments can help consumers with questions. But they often see their role as mediating between insurers and consumers rather than advocating for individuals, experts say. In some states, community-based organizations also offer insurance help.

Individuals and small businesses that are considering seeking coverage from state-based health insurance marketplaces can contact those exchanges directly with questions about plans or eligibility for subsidies. The ACA requires all exchanges to have community-based “Navigator” programs to help people learn about plans offered through the exchanges and about eligibility for subsidies. Grants for these programs will be announced later this summer.

In addition, each exchange is required to operate a toll-free call center. Some exchanges, like the one planned for the District, aim to provide comprehensive health insurance assistance.

“We are building our call center to handle all sorts of questions,” says Mila Kofman, executive director of the District’s Health Benefit Exchange Authority.

“Whether it’s about enrollment through the exchanges, tax credits, Medicaid or a problem with their health plan, we’ll be a one-stop shop where consumers can come.”

The assistance available at other exchanges may be more bare-bones, experts say.

Pollitz suggests that people shopping for insurance on an exchange start investigating plans and applying for coverage in

October, the first month people can sign up for exchange coverage that will begin Jan. 1. “You don’t want to wait until the last minute.”

Please send comments or ideas for future topics for the Insuring Your Health column to questions@kaiserhealthnews.org.

Summer Fun and Contact Lenses

By Chelsea K. Francis The summer months are the most active for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are certainly the most comfortable.

Dashing out the door without having to burden yourself with extra clothing after a long winter is a liberating feeling, especially for those who wear contact lenses instead of glasses.

Not only are contact lenses convenient, they are also more practical. How many times have eyeglasses gotten in the way of enjoying outdoor games and pastimes because of decreased peripheral vision and slipping frames? Contacts eliminate both of those problems. If you still wear specs and continue to struggle through warm weather activities, then it is time to seriously consider switching to contacts.

The selection of contact lenses has never been greater, due to ongoing improvements and innovations targeted to enhance comfort and convenience. Soft contacts (including silicone hydrogels) have come along to extend wear time and maximize moisture for healthy eyes.

Multifocal and toric lenses are available for those with presbyopia and astigmatism, so all ages can enjoy the benefits these contacts give. Many of these offer UV blocking* as an added measure of protection against the sun.

With the introduction of daily disposables water sports have become less of a problem. Whether one is swimming in lake water, municipal pool, or a familiar private swimming pool, water splashed in the eyes while wearing contact lenses increases the chances of infection and other eye damage caused by microorganisms in the water. These incidences are minimized when the affected contacts are promptly removed and replaced with a

fresh pair. Daily disposables also mean you no longer have to carry cleaning and solution kits to disinfect your lenses.

Today there are online retailers that make it very convenient to purchase contact lenses inexpensively and in a timely manner. Quick surfing of the Internet will give you a list of vendors who will meet your needs. All that is required is a valid prescription provided by your eye doctor. Purchasing lenses online cuts down on traveling to box store lens sellers and wasting valuable time that is better spent enjoying your summer.

Consult with your eye doctor who will assist you in choosing and fitting the appropriate contact lens for your needs.

Nothing defines ‘carefree summer days’ more than the ability to leave your eyeglasses behind and enjoy the natural feel of wearing contacts during warm weather activities. *Keep in mind that contact lenses that block UV radiation only protect the cornea-that part of the eye covered by the lenses. For full eye protection from UV rays, appropriate sunglasses that shield the entire eye area are needed.

Chelsea Francis is part of a research and marketing team employed by Contact Lens King in order to keep their customers informed with regard to contact lenses and the industry. Our researchers work hard to keep our prices at the lowest per box pricing at up to 70% savings to the consumer. In addition, we offer free shipping on all orders in the continental USA. Contact Lens King Contact Lens King Blog Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com/ Article/Summer-Fun-and-Contact-Lenses/232260

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The Benefits of Regular Jogging

By Dennis Clay

J

ogging is good for your overall health due to several reasons. It provides your body with a good cardiovascular workout while strengthening and toning your muscles at the same time. Jogging on a regular basis generally puts you in better overall physical condition and provides several benefits for your mental and emotional health as well.

Many people are concerned about the possibility that regular jogging may cause some damage to their joints, especially the knees, ankles, and hips. If this is a concern of yours as well, you can rest assured that the risks posed by regular jogging are minimal, especially if you approach the exercise sensibly and use jogging shoes of good quality. Furthermore, the benefits that you get from jogging certainly outweigh the risks.

If you are currently suffering from poor appetite then jogging is also advisable for you. Just like any other form of exercise, jogging increases your body’s need to refuel. Therefore, the longer you run, the more your body will require food for refueling. The irony with regular exercise is that you may actually be eating more while losing weight. Jogging can also relieve you of digestive problems, which you may have developed while leading a sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise speeds up the digestive process and helps make it run smoothly.

Because it provides your body with a good cardiovascular workout, jogging also effectively strengthens your heart. It improves blood circulation as well as the overall condition of your respiratory system. Jogging may also counteract depression, primarily because it helps you sleep

better and become more active during the day. A good quantity and quality of sleep is essential for both your physical and mental well-being, and being more active can help open up more opportunities for personal and professional growth.

When done properly, jogging can make you feel less tired after finishing a session than before you started. It is a great way to get away from your usual environment for a short while and is a lot more pleasurable than spending hours at the gym.

Just remember that jogging is supposed to give you both physical and mental pleasure, so don’t overdo it! Turn it into a refreshing activity rather than an exhausting workout.

Please visit if you would like to read more great writing. Currently, featured articles are about jogging, jogging accessories, and much more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/The-Benefits-Of-Regular-Jogging/236159

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July 2013

The Healthy Vacation Guide

Eat and Exercise the Right Way, Away from Home

By SparkPeople.com

V

acation season is here! You deserve a break, after spending the last few months becoming a fitter, healthier you, right? While vacation is a time to relax and take a break from work, stress, and the usual routine, it shouldn’t be a break from your healthy habits.

Frequent Flyers

Roadies

With a little planning, you can enjoy your vacation and still maintain your current weight and fitness level. Whatever your plans – a family road trip, a tropical cruise, a sightseeing tour, or relaxing on the beach – you can avoid packing on those dreaded vacation pounds by packing some healthy foods and workout gear instead.

Staying Inn Shape Cruise Control

Despite appearances – a plethora of fast foods, snacks and lots of sitting around – flights and airports offer plenty of nutritious food and opportunity for activity, if you know where to look:

As the demand for healthy eating and exercising rises, hotels are responding to their guests. There’s no reason not to work out or eat right just because you’re away from home. Calling ahead and working with the concierge will help you find all the things you need to make your vacation a healthy one: When checking in, refuse the mini-bar key. Not only are the prices outrageous, but the choices are not the healthiest.

Instead, find a nearby health food store or grocery and stock up on good-for-you snacks. If your room/floor has a fridge or microwave, you can also get enough foods to prepare healthy meals. If a coffee maker is all you get, buy instant soups or oatmeal and prepare them with the hot water.

If ordering room service, be specific about what you want, whether or not it is on the menu. Most places will accommodate your healthy requests and substitutions.

Before leaving home, find out what fitness opportunities the hotel offers. While most will have a pool, others may offer tennis, walking paths, bike rentals and full gyms. Then, pack the appropriate clothes, shoes and gear.

If your hotel does not have a gym, ask if they are affiliated with a nearby local gym. Many will offer day passes at a discount for hotel guests.

Ask the concierge about healthy restaurants, markets, parks, trails and maps.

Design your own hotel room workout.

All you need to pack is some lightweight, cheap equipment: resistance bands, a jump rope and a sticky mat. Most bands will come with illustrated exercises. You can also do push-ups, crunches, lunges, squats and triceps dips on a chair.

Cruises offer so many opportunities for fun and exploring. But they are also known for their rich, gourmet food that is available round the clock. You don’t have to totally deprive yourself to stay in shape.

Moderation, along with participation in the many opportunities that cruises offer for fitness, will keep you sailing smoothly: At buffets, fill your plate only once.

Load 50% of your plate with vegetables and choose small portions of other foods you want to try.

If you splurge and eat a rich meal, try to balance it out with a healthy, vegetable meal. Eat lighter the rest of the day.

If ordering dessert, don’t make it a daily habit. And when you do, split it with someone else.

Most cruises offer a healthier “spa menu.” Order from this when you can.

And, when ordering at any meal, be very specific about what you do and do not want. You can omit ingredients and specify how you want something to be cooked (steamed instead of fried).

Plan for fitness every day. Cruises usually offer complete gyms, aerobics classes, trainers, running tracks and pools. Go dancing in the disco in the evening and play plenty of beach games when docked.

Take a morning walk around the track while enjoying the sights and fresh air.

Try to eat a healthy meal before you arrive. You’ll be less likely to munch on high-calorie snacks just because they’re around or you’re bored.

If eating in an airport, it’s worth it to spend the time searching out healthy foods. Look for salads, fresh fruit, vegetable-based soups and baked chicken.

While trekking through the airport, take every opportunity for extra movement. Use the stairs, pass on the people movers and carry your own luggage.

Instead of sitting around before boarding the plane, use the time to walk. You’ll arrive early enough to fit in 15-20 minutes of walking, so take advantage of it.

After all, you’re about to sit for an entire flight.

Call the airline 48 hours in advance to see if a meal is offered. Typical in-flight dinners can have as many calories (over 1,000) as a fast food meal, and even more fat! Special order a diabetic, low-fat, vegetarian, child, or religious meal. Or, pack your own lunch to ensure you get exactly what you want.

Flying can easily dehydrate you, so drink plenty of water. Drinking one glass per hour in flight will ward off dehydration and jetlag.

It’s okay to get up and walk through the aisles a few times when you are feeling antsy during a long flight.

If you’re traveling by car, you’ve already spent a lot of time planning your course.

We all want to make good time, but it’s also important to schedule several breaks into your itinerary, especially if you have kids: Pack a cooler full of healthy snacks, and even complete meals. Chopped veggies, fresh fruits, bottled water and juice, low-fat yogurt, peanut butter sandwiches, popcorn and pretzels make easy travel fare.

Don’t skip meals, and try not to go more than 4 or 5 hours without eating.

Being famished at mealtime may hinder your ability to make healthy choices and trigger overeating. Plus, constant energy levels will keep you alert at the wheel.

Avoid eating full meals in the car. Take time to stop, relax and enjoy your meal.

This way, you can pay closer attention to your hunger and satiety signals.

Plan exercise and stretching breaks as well. Just three 10-minute pit stops add up to 30 minutes of activity. Go for a quick jog or walk, stretch and run around with the kids. Back in the car, you’ll be more alert and energetic.

Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks.

While they do give you a short energy burst, the drop when caffeine wears off can make you even more tired. For stable energy levels, drink plenty of water and eat healthy, whole foods that keep blood sugar levels from spiking and dropping.

Be wary of fast food and roadside restaurants. If you have no other options, choose the healthiest possible items and keep portion sizes small. One way to avoid excess calories and fat is to hold the mayo, special sauces, cheese and dressings. Also opt for non-breaded items and kid-sized portions. Read up on more “menu watch words” here.

Remember to pack walking shoes, a swimsuit, exercise equipment and loose, comfortable clothing. And with all that time in the sun, don’t forget shades, a hat and plenty of sunscreen.

It’s worth the time it takes to plan ahead for a healthy trip, but be realistic. You probably won’t lose weight on vacation, but maintenance is possible. Remember, vacation (like exercise) should be fun! Try new things, sightsee on foot, go rock climbing or surfing, and definitely enjoy the good food without total deprivation. Being healthy is a lifestyle, not a quick fix. So, follow these tips to return home with plenty of memories and souvenirs, not extra pounds This article has been reviewed by Becky Hand, Licensed and Registered Dietician

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July 2013

The Proper Work Life Balance

Does Your Child Snore?

By Zeb F. Pointdexter III DDS., FAGD

Contributing Writer

S Yet, many will not try to fix things.

By Alicia Wheen

T

he concept of a proper work life balance is not something which should ever be taken lightly. These spheres have to be in harmony with one another as a lack of balance will undermine the positives of both. When your work drains a great deal from your personal life or your personal life is undermining your productivity at work, you end up suffering in both areas as a result. That is not the pathway to a happy life.

This is why it is so important to always strike the proper work and life balance.

If you do not then the disharmony you experience will trouble you in all areas of your life ensuring you gain no pleasure from either work or home.

How does this occur?

Among the most common mistakes a person could make in this regard would be to spend far too many hours on work and too little on other areas of life. While it is definitely important to invest time and effort into professional pursuits which can improve your career and life, you do not want to do so to the point it is draining you and reducing the quality of your life. There are ways to address this and they can range from learning better time management skills to perhaps even changing to a new job. The main point here is that if your work and life balance is disharmonious then you do need to address the problem.

A common reason many people do not wish to take steps to correct their work life balance is they fear if they detract too much from their work schedules, their professional career may suffer. There is some truth to this assessment but the problem begins when a person becomes so invested in work that fatigue, boredom, and burnout begin to set in. Such a weakened state of mind and body does not exactly set the stage for being more productive and successful at work. Nor does it contribute to a positive home life.

Those who take a step back and enjoy other pursuits besides work soon grow to experience improved performance at work. Yes, taking a day off and relaxing can have enormous restorative benefits which, ironically, contribute to a better work life.

Does it seem difficult to manage a proper work life balance relationship on your own? If so then you should look towards getting some help. There are professional life and business coaches who truly understand how to help you improve in these areas. Taking advantage of their services might prove to be the best strategy when you want more harmonious balance in your life.

Jinalife offer services like lifestyle coaching and spiritual guidance UK wide. She is also specializes in work life balance coaching.

ome problems with children reading can be attributed to a lack of critical neurological development during their formative years. Children birth through 5 years of age that suffer with some sort of respiratory difficulty may have slower cognitive ability according to recent studies funded by the National Institute of Health. This information as well as other incites into the field of Sleep Dentistry. Dr. Phillip Cooper Jr. gave a lecture during the 76th Annual Gulf States Dental Association Convention on the topic. Dr. Cooper, a second generation graduate from the Meharry School of Dentistry, is a leading authority on Sleep Dentistry in preadolescent children. His research into the altered sleep patterns of children with snoring problems has yielded very interesting and eye opening information. Snoring is not natural and results in inadequate oxygen intake and altered sleep patterns.

Broken sleep patterns caused by snoring at different times during the life cycle of humans has many negative effects. Oth-

ers have written books on sleep disorders, however, Dr. Cooper has zeroed in on the challenges faced by African American children. In his book, “Why African American Children Cannot Read�, he points out that among others thing, snoring affects the preschool child’s ability to distinctively hear letters and process phonetics. What the teacher and or parent says and what the child hears may be different due in part to an underdevelopment in a specific part of the brain.

Hearing impairment is directly associated with inadequate airway flow also known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Dr. Cooper, a general dentist by profession, has dedicated time and effort to improving the lives of children. However, having a special interest in the reading challenges faced by African Americans, he has devoted a portion his life to treating sleep disorders. As I sat listening to him deliver his perspectives, I reflected on the many years I have attended GSDA conventions.

Conventions are defined as gatherings of people for the exchange of information to better mankind. A simple concept, whose timely and practiced traditions provide information which is readily applicable. Gulf State Dental Association (76 yrs old) is a state component of the National Dental Association (100 yrs old). Our history is relevant, our existence unique and our story ongoing.

Article Source: http://www.articlebiz. com/article/1051558818-1-the-properwork-life-balance/

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