d-mars.com Health & Wellness 31 by d-mars.com

January 2014

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Refresh Your Body with Healthy Eating and Exercise

4 Ways to Look and Feel your Best in 2014 By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

PAGE 6

Cervix: A Vital Part of the Female Reproductive System By Stephanie Allen-Gobert

As a woman, there are certain things that I know I should be doing to keep myself healthy. Some of these things are obvious and we hear about them all the time... PAGE 12

page 4

Justice Healthcare Group: More than Just a Name Pictured (l-r)Jacquelyn Richards, MR. D-MARS, Sharon Padilla, Carolyn Curry Cervical Cancer Awareness Month By Kandice Rose

It may be easy to see that beauty is deeply rooted in your family tree. But some things that are passed down from generation to generation are not as easily seen—like glaucoma, an eye disease that runs in families and often has no warning signs. PAGE 24

page 16

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Texas Residents and Their Options Under the Affordable Care Act

page 8

Start the New Year with a Healthier You by Using Tru Balance Water

Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane. – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 2014

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

What better way to enter into a new year than with a renewed body, mind, and spirit? If you are not taking the time to take care of yourself, then you are doing yourself a great disservice. The body is a temple, and you only get one. This issue of the Health and Wellness Journal details the importance of routine checkups, offers tips on how to beat the winter blues, and even offers a comprehensive guide to the new healthcare options under the Affordable Care Act. Enjoy! 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.

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

Administrative Assistant Angelle Gillum

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Contents

Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

Justice Healthcare Group: More than Just a Name................................................................................................................................. 4

PHOTOGRAPHY

Adding In, Not Just Cutting Out, is Key to Better Eating Habits........................................................................................................10

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

Cervix: A Vital Part of the Female Reproductive System...................................................................................................................... 12

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Four Ways to Look and Feel Your Best in 2014......................................................................................................................................... 6 Start the New Year with a Healthier You by Using Tru Balance Water............................................................................................. 8

The Ins and Outs of Gout................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Texas Residents and Their Options Under the Affordable Care Act..................................................................................................16 Five Easy Tips to Get More Fiber..................................................................................................................................................................18 Health Story of the Year: Salt is Vindicated..............................................................................................................................................18

Kevin Wright

Living Healthy Beyond January 2014..........................................................................................................................................................20

DISTRIBUTION

Safety Checklist: A New and Expecting Mom’s Best Friend................................................................................................................ 22

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Good Looks May Not Be the Only Thing That Runs in Your Family................................................................................................... 24

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Valerie Jones Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade d-mars.com d-mars.com News Provider Stephanie Allen-Gobert Julie Lester, DPM Rhonda Dallas The National Eye Institute Kandice Rose

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “A healthy attitude is contagious, but don’t wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier.” – Tom Stoppard

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month............................................................................................................................................................. 24 The ‘Preventive Medicine’ to Help Protect Financial Health When You’re Seriously Injured, Ill, or Unable to Work..........25 Winning Ideas for Beating Winter Blues...................................................................................................................................................26

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January 2014

Justice Healthcare Group: More than Just a Name

ustice Healthcare Group E M B R A C I N G H E A LT H . . B A L A N C I N G L I F E

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

team of caring individuals dedicated to helping people receive quality health care – that is Justice Healthcare Group. Justice is made up of primary skilled nurses with a combined experience of more than 90 years. With a specialized focus of caring for Class III and IV heart patients, Justice Healthcare Group, established in 2010, prides itself on monitoring patients, keeping physicians informed, and minimizing readmission to the hospital. At Justice Healthcare Group, “justified” care is the main priority. “Working in ICU, patients would be readmitted to the hospital, and we would find the reasons they returned could have often been prevented,” said Carolyn Curry, Administrator for Justice Healthcare

Group. “I always felt that we could make a difference. At Justice, we try to take a holistic approach: focusing on mind, body, and spirit.” Justice employees attend the annual Prayer Explosion Conference together each year. “I established the name ‘Justice Healthcare’ in 2010. Later, my husband suggested I name it ‘Justice Healthcare Group,’” Curry said. “The prayer conference we attended that year talked about everyone working as a group. Every time we attended a prayer conference, we would receive confirmation that we were moving in the right direction.” The Justice staff includes Curry; Jacquelyn Richards, Assistant Administrator; Sharon Padilla, Director of Nursing; and Sharon Martinez, Office Manager. Each Justice employee is an integral part of the team and strives to give each patient they encounter “just” care in the delivery of quality nursing care.

d-mars.com: What makes Justice Healthcare Group different from other home health agencies? Curry: We are a new agency, so we try to brainstorm ways to be different from other agencies. Currently, our patient populations’ conditions varies from hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, and post surgery but,

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one population of patients we want to attract is those requiring the Left Ventricular Assistance Device (LVAD). The LVAD is located in the left ventricle of the heart, which is the biggest, strongest chamber that pumps blood throughout the body. The LVAD is for patients whom have experienced severe heart failure, and have been treat-

January 2014

ed with maximum drug therapy. They have the option of using an LVAD or undergoing a heart transplant. LVADs serve two purposes: patients can use them while they are on the waiting list for a heart transplant (Bridge to Transplant) or patients may use it as “destination therapy” – meaning the LVAD helps them to sustain life while living with heart failure. Padilla: We are in charge of community assessments of the population of clientele. We make sure the patients are comfortable in their own environment. Our assessments identify any potential hazards in their living environment as well as recognizing and focusing on the exacerbation of the disease process. We collaborate with the patients’ doctors on an ongoing basis to report any abnormalities and possible referrals. We’re not in business to just turn a profit. We are in this business to promote healthcare. We’re all intensive care nurses. We know the body. We know about health. Richards: I am currently in school pursuing my family nurse practitioner certification. When I was asked to join the company, I wanted to see what we could do in the community to help prevent hospital readmissions. Our goal was to make a change in the community. Martinez: I’ve been in home health since 2004. I enjoy helping seniors because there are a lot in the community that really need help. I started with Justice July 1, 2013. One thing I can say about Justice is that they really care about their patients. Justice has a shared vision. So many business owners only think about themselves, but Justice has a shared vision. d-mars.com: How is Justice able to reduce hospital stays and readmission for heart conditions? Curry: Some of the reasons for readmissions regarding post cardiac surgeries or LVADs are due to infections and lack of knowledge regarding medications. We receive a lot of extensive and continuous training with LVADs in the hospital. I remember one patient had to be readmitted because he failed to pick up his blood thinner, not knowing the importance of it. That readmission could have been prevented. Padilla: We perform a thorough assessment of the patient, including checking vitals. We compare that to the previous week’s information. We will also call the doctor from the patient’s house – if it is warranted – to let them know of any changes in the patient’s status. I’m also a neuro [relating to nerves or the nervous system]trained nurse. One of the potential complications of having a LVAD is the possibility of having a stroke. This is why neuro checks are so important. We have someone who will be assessing and evaluating the continued proper and safe functioning of the LVAD. The device will be checked on admission to the agency and at least once a week thereafter. Richards: With all of us having ex-

We’re not in business to just turn a profit. We are in this business to promote healthcare. We’re all intensive care nurses. We know the body. We know about health.

Carolyn Curry

Sharon Padilla

perience as critical care nurses, we can quickly identify signs and symptoms of impending complications before it happens and we quickly communicate this information with the doctors.

d-mars.com: What are some of the specialized needs heart patients require? Curry: You have to keep in mind their mind and spiritual being. If you’ve been healthy and moving around fine for most of your life, and all of a sudden you’re tired and have to sit down often and not able to do the things you did in your past, it can be a shocking adjustment. You have to get them back to the point of being more positive and believing that they can get better. If the patient has the will to get better, they have a greater chance of getting better. Richards: Education is very important. Many patients are overweight, and they must know that in order to get better, they’ll have to lose weight, eat healthy, and set up a plan to do so. We try to educate patients on how to eat healthier and exercise. d-mars.com: What is the most fulfilling part of your job? Padilla: The most fulfilling part of my job is when I go to a patient’s home and the patient says that they feel so much better and that I made a difference in his or her life. I have empathy for the elderly because they’re often forgotten. I used to work in a nursing home and it made me sad to see that for many of them, it was ‘out of sight, out of mind.’ Curry: When patients ask me ‘when

Jacquelyn Richards

are you coming back?’ That tells me that I’m making a difference in their lives. When we speak, the patients are really engaged. That amazes me, especially when I have a patient that is 90-something years old. I can talk to her and she will be able to repeat everything back to me. I really get to know my patients. Richards: The patients look forward to your visits and they look forward to your teaching. Some of the things that we consider to be simple, they find very interesting. Martinez: Knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of others is extremely fulfilling for me.

Future Growth

In addition to the specialized care Justice Healthcare Group already provides, Justice plans on expanding its areas of expertise and services, which includes a focus on psychiatric health. Thelma Dennis, who has more than 20 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, currently works as a call center registered nurse. “In this role, I integrate my knowledge as a seasoned nurse in mental health and medical-surgical nursing combined with advance technology to provide access to health care for thousands of veterans in the South Central Region of the Veteran’s Health Administration,” Dennis said. “For many years, health care at the VA was provided predominately to the male population. However with the wars in the not-so-distant past, the face of the veteran has grown to encompass the female veteran – a fact that has broadened my scope of practice to embody every subsystem

Sharon Martinez

of care. Though my scope of practice has broadened my passion remains in mental health.” As a geriatric nurse for 14 years, Dennis grew to appreciate the needs not only of the patient, but the family as well – especially the primary caregiver. “It takes a special individual to care compassionately for this group of patients,” Dennis said. “The specialty addressed frequently during my years of inpatient practice was patients with dementia, primarily of the Alzheimer’s and Vascular types. My vision for the psychiatric work I plan on doing in the future with Justice Healthcare Group is to keep it simple in the initial phase and expand from there.” She plans to focus on geriatric psychiatry with an emphasis in treating Alzheimer’s, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia in individuals age 62 and older; meticulous promoting of mental health in the community; and a commitment to serving community-based psychiatric care which maximizes the patient’s and family’s ability to live a fulfilling life and reduce recidivism in readmissions for hospitalization. Dennis is currently preparing to apply and set for the ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Certification. Justice Healthcare Group is armed with quality services matched with an unparalleled passion for people. The employees take pride in knowing they’ll remain equipped to fulfill the needs of future patients.

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January 2014

in 2014 with Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

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January 2014

Homemade Cookie Recipes That Are Low in Calories

Kitchen Sink Cookies These cookies have a little bit of everything â&#x20AC;&#x201D; except the kitchen sink! Dark chocolate, walnuts, oatmeal, and dried apricots and cherries are all part of the mix, as is whole-wheat pastry flour.

Ingredients

Lighter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These crispy cookies will give your old fullUse almond butter, a source of healthy fat, to fat recipe a run for its money. Food Network add nutty creaminess to these holiday cookies. Kitchens added some ground oats, whole- A dusting of powdered sugar is the finishing wheat pastry flour and agave nectar, then cut touch. some of the butter to slim these down without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 2 tablespoons canola oil 1/4 cup applesauce 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 large egg white 2/3 cup whole wheat pastry flour 1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon fine salt 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries 1/4 cup lightly toasted walnuts 2 ounces dark chocolate, cut into chunks Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. 2. Combine the brown sugar, butter and oil in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix on high speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down the bowl, until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the applesauce, vanilla and egg white and mix to combine. Add the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon and salt and mix just until just combined. Add the apricots, cherries, walnuts and chocolate and mix to combine. 2. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Using 1 tablespoon of cookie dough at a time, roll into balls and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Press the balls down with the palm of your hand to flatten slightly, as the cookies will not spread as much as cookies with more butter. Bake until lightly browned but still soft, 12 to 14 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool on racks.

Pecan Sandies

1/2 cup rolled oats (not quick-cooking) 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour, spooned and leveled 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened 2/3 cup packed light-brown sugar 3 tablespoons agave nectar 1 large egg, room temperature 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped, or 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Combine the oats, flour, baking soda and salt in a food processor and pulse until the oats are finely ground. Set aside. 2. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter, sugar and agave nectar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until smooth and glossy. Reduce mixer speed to the lowest setting and gradually add the flour mixture until just incorporated; stir in the chocolate. 3. Drop level tablespoons of the dough onto silicone mat lined baking sheets, 2 inches apart (12 cookies per sheet). Transfer the sheets to the refrigerator and chill the cookies until solid, about 30 minutes. Bake until lightly golden around edges, about 12 to 14 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let cool on the sheets for 1 minute; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cook's Note: These cookies like to spread. If you are bothered by them touching, bake on 3 pans.

Ingredients 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup whole-wheat pastry flour 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup almond butter 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar, plus more for dusting cookies 1 egg white 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Whisk together flours, pecans, cinnamon, and salt. Cream butters and sugar. Add the egg white and continue beating until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract. On low speed, gradually add flour mixture and beat until a dough forms. 3. Shape the dough into 3-inch balls, about 1 heaping tablespoon each. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake until lightly browned on the bottom, 10 minutes. 4. While cookies are still hot, sift confectioner sugar over the tops. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

Recipes and Photo Credit: www.FoodNetwork.com

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January 2014

Start the New Year with a Healthier You by Using Tru Balance Water

By: d-mars.com

t’s the start of a new year and one thing’s for certain: New Year’s Resolutions are in full swing. Did you tell yourself you were going to lose weight? Eat healthier? Exercise more? Well Tru Balance Water can help in your quest for a better you. The antioxidant alkaline water is not only healthy, but it has numerous uses, including antiaging properties (antioxidants), balancing the pH level in the body (because so much of what we eat is acidic, alkaline water helps balance it), and serving as a hair clarifier (washing your hair using Tru Balance Water helps to get rid of the buildup at the roots). Tru Balance alkaline water also contains important nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Using the ABCD method – Antioxidants, Balancing pH, Controlling Weight, Detoxifying – Tru Balance Water offers a product which has had all harmful pollutants and chemicals removed from the drinking water before undergoing an alkaline filtering process that adds electrolytes and antioxidants to the water.

In addition to all the health benefits and uses of Tru Balance Water, it actually tastes good. Distributed in numerous locations around Houston, Tru Balance Water has made a positive change in the

lifestyles of many residents.

Testimonials "Everyone who comes to my house tells me how clean and pure Tru Balance Water is. I

used to have bladder infections and bad leg cramps, but not anymore." -Yolanda Griffin; Channelview, TX "Tru Balance Water has helped me with my severe acid reflux. I have gone from taking four pills to taking two pills a day. It’s a big plus. I have been lethargic and tired and nauseous due to my acid reflux. Tru Balance has helped solve these problems and has given me more energy!" -Deb Lingle; Spring, TX "Tru Balance Water is the best thing to happen to me in 2-3 years. I have tried a lot of different alkaline waters, but Tru Balance is the only one to help me actually see health results. My high blood pressure has dropped 10 points from 140/90 to 130/86. My health has come quite a long way. This water is the best at hydrating me. I have recommended it to my whole family. Tru Balance Water is everything they say it is!" -Josie Washington; Houston, TX "I have been drinking Tru Balance Water for just less than three weeks. My pH has gone from a 5.5 to over a 6! I feel much better and have more energy. I have diabetes, and it has helped my blood sugar levels to the point that I don’t have to prick my finger as much to check it per day. It also tastes great and makes pure, clear Ice!" -Jim Eisenman; Conroe, TX

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January 2014

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10.

January 2014

Adding In, Not Just Cutting Out, is Key to Better Eating Habits d-mars.com News Provider

hen you think of eating right, does your mind immediately turn to what you should cut out of your diet? The list of things you might consider giving up can be long and daunting. As important as it might be to cut out some foods, don't overlook the importance of the things you should add in, such as quality ingredients, appealing flavors and textures, and satisfying portions. "Setting our focus on what we shouldn't eat only sets us up for failure," said Cracker Barrel Chef Bill Kintzler. "Cutting out and depriving ourselves shifts our focus from the positive choices we should be making, including choosing foods that are satisfying." Ways to add in and win Managing calories and less-thanhealthy food choices makes sense. But if you think food has to lack taste, enticing texture and overall appeal to be "better for you," you're simply incorrect. Ultimately, if your diet is unsatisfying, disappointing and just doesn't taste good, you won't be able to stick with it.

Instead of emphasizing what you'll leave out and resigning yourself to bland food, think of ways to add to the appeal and taste of what you eat. For example, if you rely on breakfast smoothies to help you reduce your caloric intake during the day, be sure to add items that include fiber â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as a handful of spinach or kale. Reducing the amount of salt in your diet? Turn to other seasonings that don't

add calories, but can enhance food's flavor and that deliver other benefits. For example, cinnamon adds a warm, homey flavor to dishes. Marinades and spice blends can be a great way to add flavor to meats, fish and even veggies without adding fat, calories or salt. And replace high-calorie toppings with fresh fruit, which adds flavor to everything from pancakes to plain yogurt.

Don't feel left out when you dine out Many people trying to eat well assume they can't eat out at all. While you may have to give up your favorite food options in favor of ones that have lower calorie counts or smaller portions, abandoning some of your eating out isn't an option for many people. Instead, make dining-out choices that maximize the satisfaction of the experience. For example, the new Wholesome Fixin's meals at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store are flavorful with calorie counts that can fit into your daily dietary goals. The meals deliver the value, taste and quality with better-for-you ingredients that are lower in calories. The foods emphasize more choices and flavors with fewer calories. Whenever you dine out, look for options with calorie information â&#x20AC;&#x201C; many restaurants have added this to their menus. Eating quality foods is even more important when you've reduced your calorie intake. "Just cutting calories is not enough," Kintzler said. "Food is simply food. Setting our focus on what we shouldn't do and what we shouldn't eat, sets us up for failure. We should start thinking about what we can do, instead of obsessing over what we shouldn't." - (BPT)

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January 2014

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January 2014

Cervix: A Vital Part of the Female Reproductive System By Stephanie Allen-Gobert Contributing Writer

s a woman, there are certain things that I know I should be doing to keep myself healthy. Some of these things are obvious and we hear about them all the time – they include exercising, eating right, drinking plenty of water, and getting nightly rest. These are the outer things we can see, take care of, and do daily. On a yearly basis, preventive methods need to be done to take care of our reproductive internal organs. One excellent preventive method that all women should be doing yearly is a Well Women Exam (WWE). A WWE can help with disease identification, female disorders, and other female medical issues. A WWE consists of your health history, a physical exam, breast exam, and a pelvic exam. Although all portions of the WWE are very important, the pelvic exam can be the most important. During the pelvic portion of the WWE, the physician will normally check the uterus, ovaries, bladder, vulva, fallopian tubes, rectum (sometimes), and the cervix. Most people understand or have heard about the uterus (womb) and some of its disorders – such as fibroids, uterine cancer and endometriosis. January is

cervical awareness month and not many people know what/where the cervix is, the purpose of the cervix, or prevention for disorders of the cervix. The cervix is the neck-like passage that forms the lower end of the uterus. The cervix opens up into the vagina. The cervical os (opening) allows menstrual blood to flow out from the vagina during menstruation. During pregnancy the cervical os closes to keep the fetus in the uterus until birth. During labor, the cervix dilates to allow passage of the fetus from the uterus to the vagina. There are many disorders that affect the cervix and the other female reproductive organs. One of the most common related to the cervix is cervical cancer. Most diagnoses of cervical cancer are caused by

an infection called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There is a HPV vaccine available today that can reduce the risk of cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine can be given to girls as young as age nine. Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer include painful sex and vaginal discharge. Because there are few signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, early detection with yearly pap smears are essential. When found early, cervical cancer is highly curable. Another common disorder of the cervix is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID is an infection of the cervix known as cervicitis. This infection can spread into the uterus and fallopian tubes. PID can damage a woman’s reproductive organs and make it more difficult to become pregnant. PID is caused when the cervix

is exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea and/or chlamydia. The cervix becomes infected and less able to prevent the spread of organisms to the internal os. Symptoms of PID include chills, high fever, dull pain in the stomach and abnormal vaginal discharge. Treatment includes antibiotics and surgery in severe cases. However, PID is preventable. Avoiding multiple sex partners, practicing safe sex (condoms), and having regular checkups are some methods of prevention. The cervix is a much needed and viable portion of the female reproductive system. Yearly checkups and being observant to the changes in your body play a huge part in keeping the female system working properly. Our bodies are one of the most complex machines ever made. The cervix in the female reproductive system helps carry out several functions in our complex “machines.” From the making of mucus to keeping the fetus comfortable and in place until delivery time and dilating to allow passage of the fetus, the cervix is very vital and “maintenance” should be as vital. Just as natural as it is to breathe oxygen, it should be just as natural if not more, to take care of the cervix and the other female organs with which we are blessed.

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January 2014

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January 2014

By Julie Lester, DPM

Contributing Writer

out is an inflammation in and around the joints that causes significant redness, swelling, and pain. This inflammation is caused by increased uric acid levels in the blood stream, also known ashyperuricemia. Uric acid forms when the human body breaks down a chemical called purine. Purines occur naturally in the body, and can also be found in some foods such as organ meats, mushrooms, asparagus, beer, and some seafood. Most of the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uric acid is dissolved and eliminated in urine by the kidneys. However, if the body is producing too much uric acid, or if the kidneys are not efficiently excreting uric acid, it can build up and cause hyperuricemia. When uric acid levels are high, sharp crystals can accumulate in the joints and/

or surrounding tissue, causing a gout attack. These attacks cause pain, swelling, warmth, redness, and stiffness in the affected joint. When an acute gout attack occurs, patients often describe a pain that wakes them up from their sleep. This pain is so severe that pressure from bed sheets is often unbearable. The first attack of gout most often affects the big toe joint, but it can also occur in the instep, ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. Early flare-ups usually resolve within several days, even without treatment. Subsequent attacks may not occur for months or even years. Scientists have not yet discovered exact-

ly what causes hyperuricemia, but there is thought to be a strong genetic correlation. There are also some things that have been known to contribute to the development of a gout attack. You may experience a flare-up if you eat too many foods high in purines (red meat, organ meats, anchovies, or asparagus). You are also at a greater risk if you are overweight, drink too much alcohol (especially beer), have had an organ transplant, or use some medications (diuretics, aspirin, cyclosporine, or levodopa). Gout also affects men at a greater rate, and tends to develop in women after menopause.

You should talk to your doctor if you experience a sudden onset of joint pain with swelling, redness, and increased skin temperature. Your doctor will take a complete medical history and thorough physical exam. He or she can order blood samples to check your uric acid levels. Although very helpful, this test is not definitive because many people with increased uric acid levels never even develop a gout attack. A test of joint fluid gives a move accurate diagnosis of gout. A needle is used to draw fluid from the joint. That sample is then examined under a microscope for the presence of uric acid crystals. An acute gout attack is easily treated with medications such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications) or Colchicine. There are also medications that have been developed to decrease the levels of uric acid in the blood stream. After an attack has resolved, preventive medications can be taken to reduce the production of uric acid by the body or to help the body excrete uric acid more efficiently. It is also helpful to limit the consumption of high-purine foods, and drink plenty of water. Maintaining a healthy body weight through regular exercise can also help decrease the chances of developing gout. Contact your doctor for tips on safe weight-loss, because extreme weightloss can increase uric acid levels.

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January 2014

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January 2014

Texas Residents and Their Options Under the Affordable Care Act

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

illions of Americans are living each day without health insurance, making the chance of them getting sick that much riskier because they may not have the coverage they need to get better. With the passing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), commonly referred to as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Obamacare, President Barack Obama and his administration are striving to fulfill their goal of providing quality, affordable health insurance coverage to Americans. Texas has the highest number of uninsured people in the United States, which is why grassroots campaigns such as Be Covered Texas are making it their mission to inform Texas residents of the new health insurance options available under the ACA. In order to enroll in one of the Health Insurance Marketplace plans, visit www. healthcare.gov. Though the initial deadline for enrollment in a health insurance marketplace plan has passed, if a person enrolled by January 15, 2014, he/she will be able to get an effective coverage date of February 1, 2014.

How the Marketplace Works

Create an account

Apply

Pick a plan

Enroll

Who’s Eligible? The Marketplace is designed for the uninsured. In order to be eligible, an applicant must: • be a citizen or legal resident • reside in the state where he/she is applying for coverage • not be covered under Medicaid, Medicare or CHIPS • not be eligible for group coverage as an employee or employee’s dependent • not be incarcerated

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What You Should Know… The deadline for open enrollment is March 31, 2014. After that, the next open enrollment will be in October 2014. “There will be some people who have never had insurance in their adult lifetime, so affordability is subjective,” said Catherine Flowers of Be Covered Texas. “If you’ve never paid for insurance, adding a new expense to your budget may seem difficult.” Flowers described the process of applying for a marketplace insurance plan as fairly simple: once an applicant creates a profile and selects a provider and plan, he/ she should immediately receive confirmation via email and/or by mail. Once the applicant pays the premiums – generally, these can be paid by check, cash or credit card – the provider will maintain communications on the remaining steps. “The entire process should not exceed two weeks, contingent on your means of communication and the status of any pending issues or information,” she said.

Flowers shared some frequently asked questions she receives about the new affordable healthcare options. Q: What do I most need to know about the new health care law? A: • An existing medical condition or pregnancy will not prevent you from getting insurance. • Parents can keep adult children – up to 26 years old – on their insurance plan. • Preventive screenings and services are now covered – with no added out-of-pocket costs. • Your insurance can’t be canceled because of your health status. • There are no dollar limits on the care you receive for essential health. Q: I’m a senior. What do I need to know about the Affordable Care Act/new health care law?

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A: • Your Medicare benefits are secure – Under the new health care law, your guaranteed Medicare-covered benefits won’t be reduced or taken away. • You can choose your doctor – The new law does not change how you select your own doctor. You will continue to choose your doctors based on Medicare guidelines. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan or group health plan, different rules may apply. Check with your plan provider for details. • More preventive services are covered. • Skilled nursing facilities will publish information about the owners and how they operate to help people compare services. High-needs Medicare patients will have access to basic health care services in their homes. This will help prevent hospital stays and improve their satisfaction.

What’s the Benefit?

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” Flowers said. “Having health insurance is important for many reasons. Uninsured people receive less medical care and less timely care, have worse health outcomes, and lack

of insurance is a fiscal burden for them as well as their families. Healthcare emergencies are the number one reason for bankruptcy; moreover, the benefits outweigh the costs.”

Pres. Obama is requiring that all Americans have health insurance by March 31, 2014. Those who do not may incur fees. The penalty calculations for individuals and families not covered with health insurance are as follows:

• In 2014, the penalty will be $95 per person up to a maximum of three times that amount for a family ($285) or 1% of household income, if greater

• In 2015, the penalty will be $325 per person up to a maximum of three times that amount for a family ($975) or 2% of household income, if greater

• In 2016, the penalty will be $695 per person per year up to a maximum of three times that amount for a family ($2,085) or 2.5% of household income, if greater

Clearing Up Confusion The ACA has been met with much opposition from some. Flowers shared a message written by Dr. Corey Hebert, which is an opinion she also shares regarding the ACA: It appears that many middle class Americans are against the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare. In general, higher socioeconomic citizens can afford healthcare and lower socioeconomic status citizens, including children, have access to some type of subsidized healthcare. I have done lectures around this country and the working middle class are the most venomous opponents because they are sick of the government paying for poor people and they want the downtrodden to pull themselves up “by their boot straps.” The problem is that the middle class will benefit more from the ACA

than any other group. Let’s just start with a scenario. Let’s say that you are an accountant, and you earn $80,000 per year. You have paid $300 per month for health care for the last 30 years. You now have been diagnosed with lung cancer. Your insurance will now pay for your care. You have a $1,200 deductible. And your insurance has an 80/20 split, meaning that they pay 80% of your total bill; up to your lifetime maximum. (Yes, there is a lifetime maximum on most insurance policies). After multiple surgeries, radiation, chemo and medications, you are cancer free! Yea! But your split of that $800,000 bill is $160,000. Yes, you must pay that plus your $1,200 deductible. That would economically devastate most Americans, but let’s just say that you have $161,200 lying around, and you pay them. Then your very

loyal insurance company cancels your insurance. No other insurance company will enroll you because of your preexisting illness. One year later, your cancer recurs and you have no insurance. You are now economically bankrupt and you have cancer. If you were poor, the government would pay. If you were rich, then you would pay, but if you are middle class, you are economically and physically devastated. The Affordable Care Act (AKA Obamacare) does away with that entire horrible scenario. Middle Class, wake up and support! For more information on the ACA, visit becoveredtexas.org, healthcare.gov, or obamacarefacts.com.

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January 2014

Five Easy Tips to Get More Fiber

or many, the new year provides a reason to examine the changes we would like to make for a healthier life. This January is no different for the many Americans who will think about improving their diet. Focusing on fiber intake is one important and easy modification to consider. Research has shown that fiber has a wide range of health benefits, but Americans struggle with getting their daily dose. The FDA recommends consuming 20 to 30 grams of fiber per day, but less than three percent of Americans actually do so. "When it's New Year's resolution time, most people focus on foods they should avoid to make their diets more healthful," said registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, brand ambassador for Sunsweet Growers Inc. – the world's largest handler of dried fruits. "I love talking to people about adding fiber to the diet because it flips the typical healthy eating resolution on its head. Instead of focusing on what you can't eat, it's all about selecting those better-for-you foods like prunes and prune juice to add into the diet. It's a more positive way of looking at health." People typically associate fiber with di-

gestive health, and fiber does play a critical role in regulating digestion. In addition to digestive health, the benefits of fiber include: • Helping to keep you feeling fuller longer, which can aid in weight management • Lowering cholesterol, specifically with soluble fiber found in foods such as apples, oats and beans • Reducing the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes According to Blatner, adding fiber into the diet can be easy and flavorful with just a little planning. Ideally, she recommends choosing foods with natural fiber rather than overly processed foods with added fiber. Natural fiber sources give you the added bonus of vitamins, minerals and healthy phytochemicals. Here are Blatner's five quick tips to increase natural fiber intake this new year: 1. "Veggify." Add vegetables to your omelets, sandwiches, pizza and pasta. Add veggies dipped in low-fat dressing at lunch and start dinner with a little garden salad with chopped prunes for extra flavor. 2. Bean boost. Add beans and lentils to up your fiber intake. Add black

beans to tacos, garbanzos to salads, kidney beans to stir fries, white beans to pasta dishes and lentils to ground beef before making burger patties. 3. Fruity snack time. On-the-go portable fruits such as apples, pears and oranges are good between-meal choices. Also Sunsweet Ones are individually wrapped prunes, which make it easy to toss into your purse, care or desk drawer as an easy anytime snack. Something Blatner loves is a DIY trail mix with Sunsweet's Plum Amazins diced dried plums.

4. Grain swap. Whole grain toast instead of white toast for breakfast, brown rice stir fry for lunch, whole grain crackers for a snack and whole grain pasta for dinner can go a long way in helping you to achieve the daily fiber recommendation. 5. Drink up. Fiber is not only for eating; you can also drink it. Sunsweet's PlumSmart Light and Amazing Prune Light both provide a good source of fiber with fewer calories and sugar than regular juice. - (BPT)

Health Story of the Year:

n ever increasing body of academic research is showing that the current level of salt Americans consume is not only perfectly healthy but that adopting low-salt recommendations will actually harm people. The most recent example of this is a review of all available research on salt and health by the Institute for Medicine (IOM). The consensus of the medical experts on this panel was that blood pressure is only one of many factors that should be considered in evaluating dietary changes and studies indicate there are negative effects from reducing sodium to very low levels. “This report cautions against drastic sodium reduction efforts to get people to consume dangerously low levels of sodium of 1,500 mg a day,” said Salt Institute Vice President of Science and Research, Morton Satin. “There is no scientific justification for population-wide sodium reduction to such low levels and the recognition by the IOM experts that such low levels may cause harm may help steer overzealous organizations away from reckless recommendations.” As a result of the IOM report and other research on salt and health, Hypertension Canada has actually raised its recommendation on the minimum level of sodium consumption, the first national organization to do this. The available evidence shows that significant cuts in salt (sodium chloride) consumption can result in small reductions in blood pressure for some people, while causing a cascade of several other negative health impacts (insulin resistance, diabetes, increases in cholesterol

and triglycerides, cardiovascular events, etc.) for everyone. Despite the facts, some food activists are calling on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate the salt content of the food Americans eat, much like the recent ban on trans fats. Currently the FDA considers salt to be a “generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient. A GRAS substance is one that has a long history of safe, common use in foods or that is determined to be safe, for the intended use, based on proven science.” Multiple peer-reviewed studies published to date demonstrate that when sodium intakes fall below 3,400 mg/day (the amount the average American consumes), a rapid rise in plasma, rennin, and aldosterone occurs and may result in insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, increased mortality from congestive heart failure, and types 1 and 2 diabetes, more frequent cardiovascular events, cognition loss, stress, dehydration, and overall increased morbidity and mortality. In addition, international demographic figures on life expectancy reveal that those countries which consume the lowest salt intake have the shortest life expectancies while those with the highest salt diets, including the Mediterranean and Japanese diets, are considered to be the most hearthealthy. “The vindication of salt is probably the biggest health and nutrition story of this year,” said Lori Roman, president of the Salt Institute. “Everyone knows salt tastes good, but the latest research published in leading medical journals confirms that salt is good for you, too. The medical studies underline what we have been saying for years: science is on salt’s side.” - (BPT)

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January 2014

Living Healthy Beyond January 2014 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 January 19-25 is Healthy Weight Week

By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer

s all of us are aware, January is the highest month for weight loss resolutions in America and abroad. Advertisers spend millions of dollars recruiting the right celebrity to flash before our faces to get us to commit to one of their weight loss programs. By March, we don’t hear anything about the diet plan or how well people did that signed up with that particular brand. What I am sure about is that you can pick any of those plans but it starts with self. We must have the perseverance and endurance to desire to live a healthier lifestyle this January – before, during, and even after we commit to a program. Learn how to do these simple steps and you can strive to live a healthier lifestyle after all the commercials have gone away.

Spend quiet time daily. This is so important because all it takes is for us to lose focus and we take it out on ourselves by eating unhealthy or not eating at all.

Have a partner/buddy. This person can be someone who is starting the track on a healthier lifestyle with you or someone you can just call when you feel like getting off track.

Know what you are going to eat before you get hungry. Statistically, if we have our food prepared, we tend to eat it versus waiting for hours for something to be ready to eat.

Implement or increase some type of workout plan. Rather you have a gym membership or not, there are so many ways we can get exercise on a regular basis. Start out slow by walking, which can be done in your own neighborhood and then increase as the weeks go by.

Believe you can do it. See yourself living a healthier lifestyle. See yourself changing some of your bad habits and replacing them with good habits.

Learn how to cook healthier for yourself and your family. This is so vital to your quest for a healthier life. We must know what foods are good for us and which ones we should avoid or at least minimize intake.

So as we journey into this New Year together, let’s make smarter and healthier choices for our bodies. If you need additional information or a life coach consult, please contact Rhonda Dallas (Certified Life Coach) at info@rhondajdallas.com

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January 2014

Safety Checklist: A New and Expecting Mom's Best Friend

rom a very young age, you've integrated safety into your daily life. You learned to look both ways before crossing the street or to buckle up in a car. These things become second nature. If you welcome a precious little bundle of joy into the world, you naturally want to pass on those same safety measures to your children. Whether you're expecting or already have a baby, now is a great time to make sure you're fully prepared when it comes to safety. It's important to take the time to reevaluate your home and daily routines to ensure that you're doing all you can to provide a safe haven for your little ones. There are important things you need to do before your baby arrives that you might not have considered. Kimberlee Mitchell, child safety expert and spokesperson for the American Cleaning Institute's KEY Pledge laundry safety campaign, offers important safety tips that will help you provide a healthy home for your baby. Use these tips as a checklist as you prepare for your new baby:

Tip 1: Secure your furniture You probably considered aesthetics

when designing and laying out your living room, bedroom and other rooms in your house. However, you may not have considered safety. In case your baby gets the idea to climb on furniture, make sure to move it away from windows to prevent a potential fall. If any of your pieces, such as an entertainment center, bookshelf or large TV, can be pulled away from the wall, make sure they're mounted securely. Lastly, if your furniture has rough or sharp edges, add cushioned corner guards in case of a fall.

Tip 2: Safe storage is key All household cleaning products such as bleach and soap should be stored up, away and out of reach of children. This includes laundry products. Since single-load liquid laundry packets hit store shelves, more parents and caregivers have been using them as part of their laundry routine. However, this laundry innovation contains highly concentrated detergent and should be treated like any other household cleaning product. If not safely stored, the laundry packets can pose potential hazards, attracting dangerous interest from young children and possible injury from ingestion or exposure to the eyes. Whether you do your laundry in your

kitchen, your basement, a laundry room, laundromat or elsewhere, it's imperative to keep all household cleaners, including single-load liquid laundry packets, up high, out of reach and sight, preferably behind lock and key. Install latches on all cabinets where home cleaning products are stored. To help increase awareness and education of the importance of safely using and storing single-load liquid laundry packets, American Cleaning Institute (ACI) has launched the KEY Pledge consumer safety education campaign. Take the Pledge and encourage friends and family to BE THE KEY to a safe laundry routine at KeyPledge.com.

Tip 3: Be aware of product hazards Prior to using any cleaning or household product, including single-load liquid laundry packets, familiarize yourself with product labels, safety information

and icons on the packaging to prevent accidents. It's important to teach young children that products, such as detergent, and their containers are not toys.

Tip 4: Look at your house through your baby's eyes A great way to make sure your home is ready for a new baby is by looking at all the rooms in your house as a baby might see it. What will he be attracted to? What looks fun to play with? Move all potentially harmful products to shelves that are up high and out of reach. The same goes for any small item that could be pulled off and become a choking hazard. Unplug all of your appliances and keep the cord wrapped up so it doesn't dangle and fall into the hands of your baby. As you get ready to be a new mom, make sure you're incorporating safety into your preparation. Your baby will thank you for it. - (BPT)

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January 2014

Good Looks May Not Cervical Cancer Be the Only Thing That Awareness Month Put on your Teal and show your support Runs in Your Family

By The National Eye Institute t may be easy to see that beauty is deeply rooted in your family tree. But some things that are passed down from generation to generation are not as easily seen—like glaucoma, an eye disease that runs in families and often has no warning signs. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damages the eye’s optic nerve, which carries visual signals to the brain. Itcan lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of this disease. Quite often, by the time people are diagnosed with glaucoma they have already begun to notice changes in their side, or peripheral, vision. It’s important not to wait until you notice vision problems to see your eye care professional. “Studies show that at least half of all persons with glaucoma don’t know they have this potentially blinding eye disease,” saidNational Eye Institute (NEI) director Dr. Paul Sieving. “The good news is that glaucoma can be detected in its early stages through a comprehensive dilated eye exam.”

People with a family history of glaucoma and everybody at higher risk—especially African Americans age 40 and older—should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam every one to two years. A comprehensive dilated eye exam is a procedure in which an eye care professional places drops in your eyes to dilate (or widen) the pupil to examine the back of your eyes and your optic nerve for signs of disease. This exam may help save your sight because when glaucoma is detected early, it can be controlled through medications or surgery. Keep the vision of your beautiful family in your future. To learn more about glaucoma, visit www.nei.nih.gov/glaucoma or call NEI at 301–496–5248. A low-cost exam may be available to you through Medicare.

For more information, call 1–800–MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov.

By Kandice Rose Contributing Writer

ervical Health Awareness Month is especially important to me because, Lindsey, (cofounder of Pretty Girls with Cancer) passed away at age 29 from cervical cancer. I remember her expressing to me that she felt there was not enough support or information out there for women battling this type of cancer. She became involved in starting a chapter to help women facing the same challenges as she was. So January is a chance to raise awareness about how women can protect themselves from HPV (human papillomavirus) and cervical cancer. About 20 million Americans currently have HPV, the most common sexually transmitted disease. HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer, according to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control.When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus. The uterus (or womb) is where a baby grows when a woman is pregnant. Cervical cancer is highly preventable because screening tests and a vaccine to prevent HPV infections are available. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.

Who Gets Cervical Cancer?

All women are at risk for cervical cancer. It occurs most often in women older than age 30. Each year, about 12,000

women in the United States get cervical cancer, according to the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex. At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but few women will get cervical cancer. Visit http://www. nccc-online.org to learn more about cervical cancer, myths, prevention and education. The more we know the better we can fight cancer.

Women at Risk…

Women may also want to consider minimizing risk factors that could contribute to cervical cancer. Those factors include: • Smoking • Multiple sexual partners • Sexual intercourse at an early age • Chlamydia infection • Weakened immune system or HIV infection

The Good News?

• HPV can be prevented with the HPV vaccine. • Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care. • Cervical cancer screenings can help detect abnormal (changed) cells early, before they turn into cancer. Most deaths from cervical cancer could be prevented by regular Pap tests and follow-up care. • Parents need to know how important it is for their pre-teens to get the HPV vaccine. Lindsey’s motto while she was fighting cancer was “Faith Creates Miracles” and Pretty Girls with Cancer has adopted the motto as well. Let’s put on our TEAL this month and support those battling cancer and the survivors of cervical cancer. For more information, visit www.prettygirlswithcancer.com

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January 2014

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The 'Preventive Medicine' to Help Protect Financial Health When You're Seriously Injured, Ill, or Unable to Work

f injury or illness left you unable to work – even for a short time – would your financial health be at risk? Fifty-nine percent of U.S. workers said their financial resources would last 12 weeks or less without a paycheck, and nearly onethird (29 percent) would burn through their resources in a month or less if they became sick and unable to work, according to a November 2013 survey from Cigna. The financial risks of a temporary loss of work can be potentially difficult. Yet many workers already have access to the "preventive medicine" designed to help protect their financial health – in the form of employer-sponsored supplemental benefits, sometimes known as voluntary benefits. These benefit plans are increasingly offered through employers as optional purchases by the employee and include such coverages as disability insurance, critical illness insurance or accidental injury insurance. Employees typically pay for these benefits through payroll deduction, and they're typically less expensive through an employer than employees could purchase on their own. Without a regular paycheck, workers may find they quickly exhaust their sav-

ings on rent or mortgages, utilities, food, child care and other essentials. They may also face unanticipated out-of-pocket medical costs to pay for treatment of an illness or injury. Workers are well aware of these risks; 84 percent surveyed by Cigna said they have worried about being unable to work and over how they would handle the situation. For many workers, employer-sponsored voluntary benefits can be a way to obtain additional insurance coverage to help them pay for unexpected expenses or stay above water financially until they can return to work. "Voluntary benefits are an important

and growing part of many employers' overall benefits packages, and many of these products can offer income protection against the unforeseen," said Mike Witwer, vice president for Cigna's voluntary benefits business. "With a little homework, workers can learn how voluntary benefits can fit into their own personal finance plans." Three examples of voluntary benefits that can help protect family finances include: • Disability insurance – Disability insurance typically covers a portion of a worker's regular wages for a pre-determined time span (short- or long-term), when disabled and unable to work due to a covered injury or illness. • Critical illness insurance – Nearly two million Americans filed for bankruptcy protection this year as a result of medical bills and another 56 million adults could still struggle. With a serious illness, workers may find medical bills mounting – even with health in-

surance. Critical illness insurance is a cost-effective way to help offset out-ofpocket medical expenses due to a covered health event. Critical illness insurance pays a lump sum benefit with no restrictions on how to use the money. • Accidental injury insurance – Accidental injury insurance can help make up for expenses not covered by other forms of insurance. If a covered accident leaves an individual injured, this coverage pays a lump sum benefit to help cover costs. Many workers have access to these types of coverage through their employers' benefit programs. In fact, 77 percent of employers with 10 or more workers offer at least one voluntary product, according to a study by Eastbridge Consulting Group. Workers who've enrolled in employersponsored voluntary benefits say they like the payroll deduction (73 percent) and convenience of purchasing through their employer (68 percent). They also find these benefits less expensive than what they could purchase on their own (57 percent) and helpful in managing their budgets (36 percent), according to the Cigna survey. Although workers ages 25 to 34 were least familiar with voluntary benefits, the usefulness of the benefits transcends age. When educated about voluntary benefit options and advantages for disability insurance, critical illness insurance and accidental injury insurance, about half of those among all age groups who are not currently enrolled in these benefits through their employer said they would be more inclined to enroll in them, the Cigna survey revealed. - (BPT)

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January 2014

Winning Ideas for Beating Winter Blues Speaker. Its wireless speaker pairs with devices enabled with Bluetooth technology, offering a delightful and energizing showering experience. Available in four new colors (Chartreuse, Retro Blue, Navy Blue or Cherry Red), this showerhead will not only provide new decor but also an upgraded showering experience.

early 150 days separate the last day of the winter holidays from the first unofficial day of summer – Memorial Day. After holiday decorations get packed away and winter sets in, it's not uncommon to experience a touch or more of winter boredom. Some people may find themselves in a rut during those long 150 days. Fortunately, a number of tactics can help perk up your spirits. Here is a handful to consider as you enter 2014:

Make Your Own Holidays

Escape the Routine Traveling during winter has many benefits. In many areas of the country, winter months are slower business times for hotels and resorts, and you may find great deals. What's more, breaking up the routine and going somewhere new and exciting, or relaxing, may help alleviate winter blues. Immersing yourself in relaxation and pampering could be just what you need to release winter tensions. Places like The American Club resort in the quaint Village of Kohler, Wis., offers luxurious accommodations and the opportunity to step outside the winter routine. The newly renovated Carriage House sits above the five-star Kohler Waters Spa. Owned

by Kohler Co., the leading manufacturer of bathing products, it's no surprise the spa is renowned for its cutting-edge bathing and hydrotherapy services. Such destinations offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in luxury and do absolutely nothing, or get your blood pumping with all the exciting attractions, activities and culinary experiences at the resort and surrounding area.

Refresh your Environment Travel isn't always possible, but you can

still experience a change in perspective when you make changes in your home environment. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are top choices and winter is a great time to tackle those projects. If you have the budget, by all means – go big. But if your budget is more modest, don't despair; even small changes like new shower heads, faucets and accessories can give a room a spirit-lifting new look and feel. Doubt the power of a shower head to transform a bath? Consider the KOHLER Moxie Showerhead + Wireless

Who says you have to limit spirit-lifting celebrations to specific days of the year? If gathering with family and friends around the dinner table makes you happy, why not choose one day a month and have everyone over? Decorate for a theme that you enjoy – such as the beach or even the Fourth of July in January. Celebrate each family member with a special outing. Perhaps in January, your first-grader will choose a trip to the local indoor playground. In February, your husband might opt for a family bowling night. Allowing each member of the family to choose a destination gets everyone involved and excited. Plus, unusual family outings are a great way to brighten winter days. The days between New Year's and spring don't have to drag. Just step outside the routine – whether through travel or innovation at home – to help beat the winter blues. - (BPT)

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January 2014

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January 2014

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