d-mars.com Health & Wellness 39

Health & Wellness Journal HEALTH

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WELLNESS

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MEDICAL

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RESEARCH

September-October 15, 2014

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Prescription for Good Health

BES Group Tackles Real Issues by Providing Programs to Treat Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

A Rx for Good Health

By Rhonda Dallas Question: How do you view your current Health Status?

PAGE 12

Breathing for a Cause: Saving a Life through Rescue Breathing

By Tiffany Davis You are walking in your house and you see your loved one lying flat on the floor.

page 4

PAGE 16

Pictured l-r (back): Michael Gibson, LPC Therapist; Rodna Willett, LPC Therapist; Jeffery Murry, Director of Business Development; Wendy Dupree, Director of S/A Services; Chay Blackburn, Admin. Manager; Shirley Boothe, LCSW Program Coordinator; Billy E. Smith, CEO; Marcus L. Smith, Controller; Donna Bunn, Nursing Supervisor; and Sonya McCarty, Family Nurse Practitioner.

(Front, l-r): Samille Frazier-Savoie, Executive Director; Pamela Smith, Vice President; Anna Torres, Human Resources Coordinator

Your Body is a Success Mechanism

By J. Thomas Smith One prescription for good health is to view your body as a success mechanism.

PAGE 18

page 6

Caring for your Feet: The Importance of Proper Foot Care Join our e-mail list for the latest updates @ d-mars.com

I made a commitment to completely cut out drinking and anything that might hamper me from getting my mind and body together. And the floodgates of goodness have opened upon me – spiritually and financially.”

– Denzel Washington

September - October 15, 2014

Journal Behind The

3.

Publisher’s Message Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

This issue’s theme “Prescription for Good Health” focuses on the proper maintenance needed for staying in the best health of your life.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT

What’s your unique prescription – eight hours of sleep per night…four glasses of water a day…seeing your grandbaby every weekend? Whatever it is that gets you through is helping promote your healthy well-being, whether you realize it or not. This journal will explore the ways in which you can achieve the prescription for good health. Enjoy!

Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

Office Manager Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

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.

Contents

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

BES Group Tackles Real Issues by Providing Programs to Treat Mental Illness and Substance Abuse .................................................... 4 Caring for your Feet: The Importance of Proper Foot Care...............................................................................................................................................6

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

Hypertension & Massage Therapy: A Match Made In Heaven..........................................................................................................................................6

online support specialist

Delicious Sweet Potato Recipes....................................................................................................................................................................................................8

Anthony Torregosa

Dental Health........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

A Rx for Good Health..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................12

Angel Rosa

A Healthier YOU!...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14

DISTRIBUTION

Breathing for a Cause: Saving a Life through Rescue Breathing..................................................................................................................................16

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Your Body is a Success Mechanism...........................................................................................................................................................................................18

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Valerie Jones Ebony S. Muhammad Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Rhonda Dallas Dr. Wendy Johnson Tiffany Davis J Thomas Smith

Are you Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level?

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MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month Determine your prescription for good health by analyzing your daily routine and activities.

Eliminate anything that is negative…that’s the first step!

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Presents

BLACK PAGES ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY What this means to you,

The Business Owner: • The ability to stimulate money in our communities • Publicity at an affordable price • The professionalism it provides to black-owned businesses

It’s time we put our future finances into our own HANDS! We must encourage members to patronize black-owned businesses to further expand the economic power of African American merchants and the households that support them.

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BES Group Tackles Real Issues by Providing Programs to Treat Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

Q&A

By Valerie Jones Associate Editor

S

ubstance abuse is something that is extremely prevalent in the U.S. and can have devastating effects on, not only families, but the economy. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the cost of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug abuse exceeds more than $600 billion annually – which includes costs related to crime, lost work productivity and health care.

In short…this is a big deal. But how do you combat it?

BES Group & Associates/Solutions Plus has been involved in the alcohol and drug dependency treatment field for more than 20 years, providing treatment services for mental health and substance abuse treatment. If it’s identified that they are needed, behavioral health services are provided simultaneously with substance abuse treatment services.

Under the BES Group & Associates/ Solutions Plus umbrella is the Mental Health Division, which was created in 2007 to assist clients in establishing a foundation of emotional well-being.

Solutions Plus has been a leader in the field of alcohol and drug education since 1989, offering classes that are Texas State certified and educational programs such as Alcohol and Drug Education, Anger/Stress Management and Domestic Violence.

BES Group provides five locations throughout Houston and the sur-

E

mployees of BES Group & Associates/Solutions Plus shared their knowledge of treating mental illness and substance abuse with d-mars.com and explained the unique services offered by their company.

rounding area. The Northline, Pasadena and Beaumont locations provide Ambulatory Detoxification, Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Supportive (SOP) treatment, while the West Houston and Baytown locations provide IOP and SOP treatment for drug/alcohol abuse or dependency.

Ambulatory (Outpatient) Detoxification is an affordable detoxification program from drugs and alcohol under the care of a multidisciplinary treatment team that includes a physician, nursing staff and licensed chemical dependency counselors. It provides the benefits of Sub-Acute Detox, but in a more cost effective and less restrictive environment.

About

25% of all U.S. adults have a mental illness

Nearly

50%

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

of U.S. adults will develop at least one mental illness during their lifetime.

}}}}}} Q&A participants are: Anna Torres, Human Resources Coordinator; Shirley Boothe, LCSW Program Coordinator; Samille FrazierSavoie, Executive Director; Donna Bunn, Nursing Supervisor; Sonya McCarty, Director of Medical Services/Family Nurse Practitioner; and Richard Dole, Therapist and Program Coordinator.

Q

} d-mars.com: In your opinion, what is the most valuable asset your company adds to the community?

A: } Torres: We are accessible to people regardless of their socioeconomic status.

A: } Boothe: The most valuable thing that BES Group adds to the community is a place of help and assistance for individuals and families whose lives have been negatively impacted by the effects of addiction.

A: } Frazier-Savoie: We meet the people where they are and help them in getting to the level they want to reach.

A: } Bunn: This company offers a vast variety of services to the community that can be hard to find elsewhere.

A: } Dole: We are in the business of saving lives, helping people have the lives they want to live, saving families and helping folks become free of addiction and related consequences.

We want the same for our clients with mental health issues.

Q

} d-mars.com: Why are ambulatory outpatient detox services so important?

A: } Frazier-Savoie: The ambulatory detox program is unique in that its outpatient and patients can continue their daily lives without extensive restrictive. The program is important to the community as it is

accessible seven days a week with qualified clinical staff who provides each program component.

A: } Bunn: Our ambulatory detox program provides a plausible alternative to traditional inpatient detox. In these busy times, functional addicts do not always have the option of inpatient treatment without losing everything (i.e. job, children). Outpatient detox offers clients the freedom of their day-to-day schedule while getting the help they need. The ambulatory detox program also offers wellness for the client as a whole due to the criteria of daily medical monitoring and individual therapy as well as group therapy with our licensed counselors for the duration of the program, which is usually seven to 10 days, followed by the Intensive Outpatient Program, then the Supportive Outpatient Program.

Q

} d-mars.com: Tell me about your Intensive Outpatient Program and Supportive Outpatient Program.

A: } Torres: Intensive Outpatient Treatment and Supportive Outpatient is perfect for people who may need further treatment following inpatient services or for those who need to continue working while they are in a treatment program. Patients still have time for work, school and other life responsibilities while they are participating in the program.

A: } Dole: This is a very important part of early recovery and for someone who has never attempted to be drug-free before. There is structure and professional support available to aid clients in getting started while building a bridge or other support and as well as support groups while in treatment, so that they can continue to remain drug-free and have a life that they want for themselves as opposed to a life defined by drugs and related consequences.

Q

} d-mars.com: What makes BES Group unique?

A: } Torres: We are a one-stop shop. People who have substance abuse problems often also suffer

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September - October 15, 2014

from other issues, which may include depression or other behavioral health issues. We don’t just treat the substance abuse problem, but the root of the problem. We are dedicated to the education of individuals, families and communities about the dangers of alcohol and drug impairment.

A: } Frazier-Savoie: We follow our Chief Executive Officer’s motto, which is “We find a way when there is no way.”

Q

} d-mars.com: Do you think mental health and substance abuse is something that is properly addressed in our community? Please explain.

A: } Torres: If you would have asked me a few years back, I would have said ‘no.’ However, now there is more recognition of this issue. BES Group & Associates/Solutions Plus has done their best to inform the community of dual diagnosis treatment. Now the community is starting to embrace this idea and implementing it as part of the treatment for their clients.

A: } Boothe: Mental health and substance abuse is not properly addressed in our community. Just look any day at any time and you see those with substance abuse and mental health issues on the streets, and in our legal and penal systems.

Most substance abusers suffer from mental health issues that go unaddressed. With the BES Group’s integrated approach that addresses the whole individual holistically, the individual has a greater propensity for success.

A: } Frazier-Savoie: Mental health and substance abuse issues are becoming more visible due to social media and high profile cases related to both in college and professional athletics. As a result, at the local level community organizations are now seeking out services to address these problems. Mental health and substance abuse concerns must be talked about as a problem across race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status and educational status.

A: } Bunn: No, while it has come

5.

a long way over the past years, so many can’t and won’t get the help they desperately need. My hope for the future is for everyone in need of mental health services, no matter their issues or economic status to have access to services.

A: } McCarty: No. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately one in four adults have a diagnosable mental health disorder. These disorders put people at a disadvantage socially and emotionally and affect their performance in many daily activities. Many of these individuals are uninsured and have little to no income. The need to help them get their lives back on track is very evident. The BES Group has a commitment to help the community by providing substance abuse prevention and treatment as well as physical and mental health screenings.

A: } Dole: Texas ranks amongst the lowest of all U.S. states in availability and delivery of mental health services. There are services and programs in place to offer treatment for clients with legal issues that afford them probation and outpatient treatment as opposed to incarceration. However, the issue of substance use, abuse and dependence is so prevalent in our society, we continue to scratch the surface and unfortunately, many are lost to the disease.

9 out of 10

Pe ople

Genetics account for

50-75% with addiction started using substances before they turned 18

1 in 4 Americans

who began using any addictive substance before age 18 is addicted

of addiction

11%

16.4%

of Texas’ budget is spent on addiction and risky substance use

2 cents for every 1 dollar in Texas is spent on addiction and risky substance use that pays for prevention and treatment Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Only of people who need treatment for addiction involving alcohol or drugs other than nicotine receive any form of treatment

For every dollar in Texas, 96 cents is spent on addiction and risky use that pays for the consequences of our failure to prevent and treat them

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September - October 15, 2014

Caring for your Feet:

By Valerie Jones Associate Editor

H

ave you ever heard the adage, “it all starts with the foundation” or “you must have a solid foundation?”

The same applies for the human body – the feet are very important and foot health can be a clue to overall health. For example, tingling or numbness in the feet can be a sign of diabetes.

Dallas native Darrell Clough, General Manager of Foot Solutions in Rice Village, is extremely knowledgeable in foot health.

He received his Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Arts in Sociology from Prairie View A&M University.

Clough had worked for Schering Plough Corporation in medical sales for 11 years when he began searching for a business in which to invest.

Clough, who is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., was attending his fraternity’s national meeting when he heard a presentation on several different businesses. Immediately, he knew Foot Solutions was the business for him.

“Many people wear shoes that are not designed or fitted properly, so when you take into account the complexities of our feet, how they have to support our entire body and how much we use them, it is no surprise that 75 percent of people will experience foot pain at some point in their lives,” Clough said.

Clough explained that each foot is a complex structure of 26 bones, 33 joints, 126 muscles, ligaments and nerves and 250,000 sweat glands.

The Importance of Proper Foot Care

“When we walk or run, our feet take up to seven times more body weight exerted on each foot,” he said. “That means that during a typical day, your feet endure a cumulative force of several hundred tons.”

Many of Clough’s clients complain of foot pain ranging from the heels, arches or forefoot and they often tell him how much their feet hurt in the morning or throughout the day.

“There are several causes of foot pain;

however, heel pain can be attributed to a common condition called plantar fasciitis,” he said. “This is a long flat ligament on the bottom of the foot that becomes strained and begins to get small tears which can become swollen, weak and inflamed.”

Plantar Fasciitis is a result of repetitive activities, such as long distance running or standing all day at a job, Clough explained.

“The way we walk, such as an inward twist or roll of the foot, high arches, flat feet and even tight Achilles tendons can also be a contributing factor.”

African Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes, so it’s imperative that those who are diabetic properly care for their feet.

“Poor foot care may lead to amputation of a foot or leg. Diabetics are more vulnerable to foot problems because diabetes can damage nerves and reduce blood flow to your feet,” he said. “As a result, people can experience neuropathy or lack of sensation in the feet.”

Clough said proper diabetic footwear should be 1/4 to 1/2 inch extra depth throughout the shoe, have proper shoe width and 3/8 to 1/2 inch distance between the shoe and longest toe. The shoes should accommodate orthotics prescribed by a physician.

Clough shared the following tips on proper foot care and choosing proper footwear for those suffering from plantar fasciitis: • Invest in a pair of shoes with arch supports and heel cushioning • Never walk barefoot at home. Always wear sandals with built-in arch supports.

• Stretch the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, both morning and night, and especially before exercising.

• To alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis:

o rest the feet, ice the feet and perform stretching exercises

o use shoe inserts (orthotics) and night splits

o if pain continues, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle

Hypertension & Massage Therapy: A Match Made In Heaven

By Ebony S. Muhammad

A

Contributing Writer

ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Blacks suffer from hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, at rates 10 percent higher than their other counterparts. Just more than 45 percent of Black men suffer from high blood pressure and 44.3 percent of Black women. High blood pressure, an elevated pressure of the blood against the artery walls, increases one’s risk for a stroke and heart attack, which is also very high in the Black community.

Blacks develop high blood pressure more often and at an earlier age than any other race or ethnicity. Nine percent of Black men develop high blood pressure between age 20 and 34. Sadly, it spikes to 24 percent between age 35 and 44. In Black women, 6.7 percent experience hypertension between age 20 and 34, and then a spike to 17.6 percent between age 35 and 44. In both Black men and women, the percentages increase 20 percent every 10 years.

So how is massage therapy a match made in heaven for those suffering from high blood pressure? Massage therapy is a lot more involved than what most people realize and certainly more technical than what we see on television. It is a systematic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body. This therapeutic tool affects every system of the body: the muscular system, nervous system, circulatory system, skeletal system, reproductive system, endocrine system, digestive system, respiratory system, integumentary system and excretory system. They are all direct and indirect recipients of the benefits

of massage therapy. This also means that since the circulatory system controls the circulation of blood throughout the body, having high blood pressure affects the level at which each system functions or dysfunctions under such conditions.

For those with hypertension, the massage therapist should be made aware to enable him or her to customize the therapeutic session at best. The massage should be very slow, soothing and relaxing. Taking deep breaths will allow the body to take in more oxygen to carry through the bloodstream to the heart and brain to induce a sensation of calm and peace. Slow and steady breathing will bring an even balance to the heartbeat.

The massage therapist may also use aromatherapy to complement the therapeutic massage. By taking in essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass and peppermint, the brain sends messages to the body through neurotransmitters to further promote feelings of well-being and euphoria. The mind begins to settle into a quiet state, allowing the body to do the same. Quite often, those

receiving massage therapies will fall asleep.

Many experience some of the best rest during a massage session.

Although it is understood than an entire lifestyle change will take time and patience, a trip to a spa will only take one hour. For those with a modest budget, it’s best to seek out individually-owned spas as well as massage schools for excellent rates. Many massage therapists, especially those with their own establishment, will have the ability to be flexible and offer first-time client specials as well as various discounts to suit each client’s needs. Sit yourself in Heaven at once! *Note: If taking medication, please be sure to consult your physician before receiving massage therapy.

Ebony S. Muhammad is a Licensed Massage & Spa Therapist and is the Owner of Origins Massage Spa located in Houston. Visit them online at OriginsMassageSpa.com. Follow her on Twitter @OriginsDaySpa. She is also the publisher of Hurt2Healing Magazine, a publication that features real stories of living through and overcoming trials. Visit Hurt2Healing Mag.com for more information.

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September - October 15, 2014

Delicious Sweet Potato Recipes Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries

T

Ingredients 6 sweet potatoes, cut into French fries 2 tablespoons canola oil 3 tablespoons taco seasoning mix 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

hese are so tasty your family won’t believe they are eating healthy! Nothing this good for you should taste so good...or be this easy to cook.

These are delicious plain, but may be dipped in honey mustard sauce, ketchup, or even guacamole.

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

2. In a plastic bag, combine the sweet potatoes, canola oil, taco seasoning

and cayenne pepper. Close and shake the bag until the fries are evenly coated. Spread the fries out in a single layer on two large baking sheets.

3. Bake for 30 minutes or until crispy and brown on one side. Turn the fries over using a spatula, and cook for another 30 minutes, or until they are all crispy on the outside and tender inside. Thinner fries may not take as long.

Recipe and Photo Courtesy of allrecipes.com

Sweet Potato Bread

A

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups white sugar 1/2 cup vegetable oil 2 eggs 1 3/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/3 cup water 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Southern delight with a ‘more-ish’ taste. One bite and you want more! This bread freezes well.

Instructions 1. Combine sugar and oil; beat well.

Add eggs and beat. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir flour mixture into egg mixture alternately with water. Stir in sweet potatoes and chopped nuts.

2. Pour batter into greased 9x5 inch loaf pan (or 2 small loaf pans). Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about one hour.

Recipe and Photo Courtesy of allrecipes.com

O

Gourmet Sweet Potato Classic Ingredients 5 sweet potatoes 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup butter 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons heavy cream 1/4 cup butter, softened 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup chopped pecans

nce you taste this, you won’t ever go back to the marshmallow-topped variety! I have peeled and cooked in the microwave, and also boiled the sweet potatoes. They taste the same no matter how you cook them. So, use the technique that works best for you!

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. Bake sweet potatoes 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they begin to soften. Cool slightly, peel and mash.

3. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, salt, 1/4 cup butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar and heavy cream. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

4. In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup butter, flour, brown sugar and chopped pecans. Mix with a pastry blender or your fingers to the consistency of course meal. Sprinkle over the sweet potato mixture.

5. Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until topping is crisp and lightly browned.

Recipe and Photo Courtesy of allrecipes.com

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September - October 15, 2014

Dental Health

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Contributing Writer

What Parents Can Do for Babies and Toddlers

1

. Find out if your tap water has fluoride in it (check with your local water util ity).

• If your tap water does not have fluoride, your dentist or physician might suggest fluoride in other forms to keep your child’s teeth healthy.

• If your tap water does have fluoride—and your baby drinks only formula that has to be mixed with water—you may want to use bottled water (without added fluoride) some of the time. Here’s why: mixing powdered or liquid infant formula concentrate with fluoridated water on a

3

. Don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle.

regular basis may increase the chance of a child developing dental fluorosis on his or her permanent teeth.* Fluorosis appears as white lines or flecks on the teeth. It is usually mild; in many cases, only a dental professional would notice it. *If children regularly consume higher-than-recommended amounts of fluoride during the teeth-forming years (age 8 and younger), their permanent teeth may develop dental fluorosis.

2

. Check and clean your baby’s teeth.

Clean the teeth as soon as they come in with water and a clean, soft cloth or a baby’s toothbrush. Healthy teeth should be all one color. If you see spots or stains on the teeth, take your baby to a dentist. At about age 2 (or sooner if a dentist or physician suggests it) you should start putting fluoride toothpaste on your child’s toothbrush. Use only a pea-sized drop of toothpaste.

Milk, formula, juice and other drinks such as soda all have sugar in them. Bacteria in the mouth use sugar to make acid. Over time, this acid can make a cavity in the tooth. The longer sugar stays on your baby’s teeth, the more chances the bacteria have to make acid. And more acid means more decay.

So if you do put your baby to bed with a bottle, fill it only with water.

4

. Feed your baby or toddler healthy foods.

• Choose foods without a lot of sugar in them.

• Give your child fruits and vegetables for snacks.

• Save cookies and other treats for special occasions.

5

.Take your child to the dentist by age 1.

At this visit, the dentist will check your child’s teeth and show you the best way to clean them.

What Parents Can Do for School Age Children

As kids get older, they still need a parent’s help to keep their teeth sparkling clean and healthy. Here are five tips: 1. Find out if your water has f luoride in it (check with your local water utility).

If it does, drink tap water instead of

bottled water. Most bottled water does not contain enough fluoride to prevent tooth decay. If your water is not fluoridated, talk to a dentist or physician about whether your child needs fluoride in other forms.

2. Help your children brush their teeth (with a fluoride toothpaste) twice a day.

Young children cannot get their teeth clean by themselves. Until they are 7 or 8 years old, you will need to make sure they do a thorough job. Use no more than a pea-size amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush, and encourage your child to spit out toothpaste rather than swallow it.

3. Serve healthy meals and snacks.

• Limit between-meal snacks.

• Save candy, cookies, soda and other sugary drinks for special occasions.

• Limit fruit juice. Follow the Daily Juice Recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics (visit www.aap.org).

4. Take your children to the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

5. Ask your dentist about dental sealants.

Sealants are put on in dentists’ offices, clinics and sometimes in schools.

Healthy teeth are important—even baby teeth. Children need healthy teeth to chew and to speak clearly. And baby teeth hold space for adult teeth.

For breakthrough dental technology, GIVE US A CALL TODAY! For more information, call us at 713.654.7756 or visit our website at www.cosmeticdt.com

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Q

A Rx for Good Health

By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer

uestion: How do you view your current Health Status? Once you answer this question and be real with yourself you can begin the process of starting to or continuing to live a Healthy Life. Because we live in a Social Media World, we are flooded with information at our request. Some of that information is good or true, but some is false and not so good for our health. There are several factors that constitute a prescription for good health.

1. Am I eating several times a day? Am I eating my five fruits and vegetables?

2. How is my sleep pattern? Do I get at least 6-8 hours or am I up all throughout the night trying to burn the midnight oil by answering emails and looking at text messages? Go To Bed! 3. Do I have a daily workout routine or do

I use every excuse not to stretch, walk, Zumba or any other exercise that promotes good cardio vascular health?

4. Do I protect my mental health by not abusing my brain with too many things on my to-do list? There is always tomorrow and getting caught up is always possible.

5. Do I spend quality time with my family and friends, or do I stay on my smartphone while in their presence? Family and friends are still a good Rx for the soul.

6. How is my quiet time? Do I sit still and meditate, or am I mediating and thinking about other challenges at the same time? When I was growing up, we would have to go sit down and be quiet.

As you begin to answer these thought-provoking questions, remember that we cannot make up for lost time and time never sits still. Make a promise to yourself to take more control over living a healthier lifestyle and begin to write out your very own Prescription for Good Health. www.rhondajdallas.com

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September - October 15, 2014

A Healthier YOU!

W

Dr. Wendy Johnson Contributing Writer

orking for someone else, being a business owner and taking care of yourself/family can be stressful and it takes time. In many instances, you do not get a chance to do things for yourself because of other personal or professional commitments. Career and family are definitely important and must be taken seriously; however, taking care of you is vital as well. As professionals, we all know that working is a necessity, but if you are not taking care of YOU and living a healthy lifestyle, you will not be able to work as long as you think.

impact your blood pressure and lower cholesterol. If you decide to go to the gym, first go to your doctor and find out what you can and cannot do and take the appropriate steps.

If going to the gym is not for you, then buy a treadmill and exercise at home or walk around your neighborhood, etc.

Do not create excuses as there’s plenty to do that can bridge the exercising gap. Studies show that even 10 minutes of exercise makes a difference – so make it happen!

3. Do not replace fruit – Over the years, I started taking supplements in place of eating real fruit. It was fast and easy and I thought that it had the same impact as the natural fruit. Taking synthetic supplements is not the same as consuming the foods directly from nature. And, organic fruit is better for you as well. Select a fruit and start replacing some of the junk food that you eat during the day with fruit and you will find that you feel better and it’s healthier for you.

So buy some apricots, avocados, apples, cantaloupes, grapefruits, kiwis, guavas, papayas and strawberries. Then enjoy the juices of natural fruit instead of taking a supplement.

4. Selective Eating – Be mindful of what you eat daily.

Make a concerted effort to reduce your amount of fat intake and drink more water. As you get older, eating fatty foods is not good for you – as studies indicate that your

body will retain the fat and in some instances is very hard to get rid of. It also can have an adverse impact on your mood and it decreases your energy level. Portion control is also important, as you should eat to curve your appetite; not eat to get full. With that said, take a step back and assess what you eat each week and start making some gradual changes.

5. Get a good night's sleep – Sleeping is an important component of being healthy and should be taken seriously.

I have heard many people say that they do not require a lot of sleep; however, that is not a good thing. If you have trouble sleeping, try drinking some hot tea or milk and relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation are effective as well. Many times, people cannot sleep because they have things on their mind or are stressed. We’ve all been there, but not getting proper sleep does not help the situation. In some cases, it can make it worse. So relax, go to bed at a reasonable time and get some rest.

Working hard to accomplish various goals is commendable; however you will not be able to work if you are not healthy. Make time and go to the doctor to obtain the appropriate checkups and alter some of your eating habits.

Doing this will change how you feel and treat others.

Here are five things you can do to be a Healthier YOU! 1. Think positive and focus on gratefulness – Having a positive attitude is critical for your success as a professional and it builds a healthier immune system and boosts your overall health. Studies show that your body understands and believes what you think, so focus on the positive.

2. Work out daily – Exercising daily is an important aspect of your life as it can improve your eyesight, positively

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Breathing for a Cause: Saving a Life through Rescue Breathing rescue breathing: Stay calm and tap the victim’s shoulder lightly. Ask them if they are okay. Wait for a response: • If they can respond, ask him or her if they feel alright.

If the answer is “Yes,” ask if they would like assistance in standing.

• If the answer is “No,” call 911 (or your local emergency number) or have the loved one taken to a hospital.

By Tiffany Davis

Imagine this Scenario:

Contributing Writer

Y

ou are walking in your house and you see your loved one lying flat on the floor.

What do you do? If they have stopped breathing, or their lips and fingernails have turned blue, they need immediate help. One of the leading responses in saving their life is to perform rescue breathing until help arrives. Immediately begin helping him or her. Fear, reluctance or ignorance could cause death if a response is not given.

How do you know if your breathing is effective?

1 2

You should be able to see the person’s chest rise and fall with each breath you give them along with feeling and hearing the air come back out with each breath.

That is where the concept of: “Look, Listen and Feel” for breathing was originated. You are going to see and feel the same thing as if the person was breathing on their own. You are just doing it for them.

First rule to saving a life through

Second rule to saving a life through rescue breathing: If the victim does not respond, call or yell for help.

Check the victim’s airway and pulse and begin performing rescue breathing.

• Keeping your hand firmly in place, tilt the victim’s head back gently and lift the chin slightly. This technique assists with opening the airway. Hold your face over the face of your loved one. Make sure to observe closely.

Check to see if the chest is rising and lowering. If it is effective, it should. Listen and feel for the breath – if you feel or hear a breeze on your ear, there is breathing.

• Place your index and middle finger on the side of their throat – do not reach across the body; instead feel for the pulse on the side of the neck closest to you. You should feel a pumping in the throat.

Third rule to saving a life through rescue breathing: If there is no breathing: • Pinch the victim’s nose and lift their chin. Place your mouth over the mouth of the loved one, making a seal with your lips. Blowing slowly but firmly, give one breath every five seconds for an adult and one breath every three seconds for an infant. Watch for the chest to rise as you

give these breaths. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again.

• Wait 5-10 seconds, and then check for breathing again.

• Continue until they are breathing on their own or until help arrives.

Fourth Rule to saving a Life through Rescue Breathing: Do not leave the scene. The paramedics may need to question you about the victim.

Fears of Performing Rescue Breathing: Barrier Devices A barrier device is one type of personal protective equipment designed to protect rescuers from exposure to infection when in close contact with victims. HIV and the hepatitis family of viruses are carried in blood and some other body fluids. Since there is no way to know if the victim of a cardiac arrest is carrying these or any other communicable diseases, it’s wise to use a barrier device to keep body fluids out of the rescuer’s mouth during rescue breathing.

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Your Body is a Success Mechanism

By J. Thomas Smith Contributing Writer

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable in all things . . .

—1 Timothy 4:8 ne prescription for good health is to view your body as a success mechanism. By design, your mind, body and spirit are meant to work together with their long-term goal of success in all endeavors. Because it is a “system” or mechanism, like your car, it needs periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Your success mechanism also needs fuel, just like your car.

Would you think of going on a long trip without having your car serviced?

Would you take consistent long trips without regular maintenance intervals?

Of course you wouldn’t. Is your body any less important? Your car can be replaced. But your success mechanism— your body—cannot. Surely you can see the importance of taking care of the only success mechanism you’ll have on this plane. Your body was designed to last a lifetime, and it will last a very long time, if properly cared for.

O

Caring Caring For For Your Your Body Body How do you care for your body? Like any mechanism, its basic need is energy to function. Your thoughts, as energy, circulate throughout all levels of your consciousness, fueling the system. Its source is the God-Energy at the center of your being. It is your thinking that allows the energy to flow from its source.

To be successful, this energy is needed daily, and your mechanism should be tuned on a daily basis. Keep it tuned and fueled and you will have a mechanism that will guide you from success to success for a lifetime.

Rest and Meditation How do you maintain your success mechanism? Your mechanism should be cleansed of negative thoughts daily.

Use affirmative prayer or treatment and meditation daily to maintain contact with the Master Mechanic, your inner God-Source. Be sure to take time daily for periods of “deep” meditation. Get plenty of rest, proper nutrition and sufficient exercise.

If we do not get enough rest, the body will not function properly. We each need differing amounts of rest. I routinely get about five to six hours a night, supplemented by meditations of 20 to 30 minutes a couple of times a day. While we

each may need a different amount, the average adult needs about eight hours a night. This should give us the amount of energy we need to handle the demands of the day.

If we do not get enough rest and recuperation, the body may become rundown, making us prone to various ailments. Proper rest will keep the immune system strong, the wits sharp and the body energetic. Proper rest also keeps the mood balanced, buoyant and patient and makes you a fun person to be around.

A Lifestyle of Clean Eating Getting proper nutrition is also very import to a healthy style of living, so it is important for clean eating to become a part of your lifestyle. This involves refraining from overeating. It is most healthy to eat several small meals a day rather than indulging in two to three gluttonous orgies. Four to six small

high fiber by consuming an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. When you eat, pay particular attention to proper portion size. My motto is, “everything in moderation, including moderation.”

Regimen A Healthy Exercise Regimen How important is exercise? Well, we do not have to ask anyone, read a book or hear it in the media to know that most of us do not recognize how important exercise really is. Most Americans spend more than three hours a day watching television. Physical education has been taken out of the schools, our children are consuming fast foods on a daily basis and way too many children and adults alike are obese, overweight or fat.

However, a healthy exercise regimen can bring great returns by making the population fit and healthy. Any form of daily physical activity will significantly increase the number of calories the body burns to maintain life. It will increase

For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable in all things . .—1. Timothy 4:8 meals every two to three hours is more desirable and much healthier.

How you start your day will have a great impact on how your day progresses. Breakfast is the most important meal, so do not skip it. Remember that it is important to hydrate the body. So drink no less than eight cups (64 ounces) of water daily. This should be very easy to measure by using bottled water.

Eliminate Processed Processed Foods Foods Eliminate When it comes down to what you actually consume, it is important to reduce, if not eliminate altogether, processed or refined foods, such as white flour and sugar. Other things to avoid include saturated and trans fats, sugary soft drinks, alcohol and foods with high caloric content. Instead of these, include

“basal metabolic rate” to such an extent that you will actually burn calories while you sleep, 24 hours a day. The stronger the metabolism of the body, the stronger its immune system becomes. As you burn more calories, you sweat, which, in turn, takes toxins out of the body.

ReduceYour YourRisk Riskfor forDiabetes Diabetes Reduce Another benefit of exercise is that it regulates the amount of insulin in the bloodstream. The more insulin that is in the body, the less fat the body burns.

So exercise turns your blood sugar into energy, reducing the amount of insulin in the bloodstream and, in turn, your risk for diabetes. Exercise also improves the mood, reduces stress, reduces cholesterol, increases energy, increases sexual prowess and promotes better sleep. The

objective is to elevate the heart rate for an extended period of time, which will make the heart and lungs stronger. The simplest and easiest way to get started is walking, increasing your pace and duration over time. Later, you can begin jogging, followed by running. You might also consider swimming or playing basketball, tennis, golf, racquetball or whatever suits you. No matter what aerobic exercise you choose, you should engage in it no less than three times a week. As with any exercise regimen, do consult your physician before beginning.

Building aa Mental Mental Building Equivalent of of Health Health Equivalent Building, or rebuilding, a health body results in a positive self-image. However, if we just sit around and simply think about getting healthy, nothing will happen. On the other hand, if we know exactly what it is we want and build a strong conviction that we will make good happen by our actions, the universe will begin aligning itself in such a way that the goal we visualized will manifest. But first, we must act by building a mental equivalent.

As we focus on the actions that will bring health to the body, we begin to eat foods which energize and nurture. We must also begin loving ourselves enough to focus on getting the rest the body needs to heal and rebuild. Health is an inside job. Let go of the ‘stuff’ inside of you that manifests as aches and pains.

Declare that they do not have any power over you anymore.

It is of the utmost importance that you continue to program your subconscious mind with positive thoughts. This helps to build a positive self-image. Practice mental visualization and breathing techniques to arrive at a high state of spiritual consciousness. You have discovered the secret. You now have a new and better way to improved health. Take a deep breath and tell your heart: I am healthy!

PersonalHealth HealthAffirmation Affirmation Personal I recognize that this body is the temple of the Living God. It is a perfect body.

There is perfect circulation, perfect respiration, perfect assimilation and perfect elimination. All that I need to know to care for it, I now know. I lovingly accept the responsibility of doing all that I need to do to keep my success mechanism in optimal condition. I exercise regularly.

I eat the proper foods in the proper amounts. I meditate and I treat myself with spirit-filled words of truth. Thank You, God-in-me, for this perfect body.

And so it is! * J Thomas Smith is an attorney specializing in IRS Tax Defense, Consumer Bankruptcy and Family Immigration. He is a mental health consultant, author and host of “Sunday Morning Live” on KMJQ/Majic 102.1 (9-11 am). His book “The Secret to a New Life” is available through booksellers or online at www.TheSecrettoaNewLife.com.

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