Health & Wellness Journal HEALTH
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December 2014
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Safety Matters: Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday
The 12 Days of Holiday Safety By Rhonda Dallas As we embark on this holiday season, it is very important to stay healthy and safe. PAGE 8
Perfect for Winter: Simple and Savory Stews Beef Stew, Chicken, Pasta and Chickpea Stew, Seafood Bisque PAGE 10
page 4
TOP (L-R) Dr. Edward Mazique, Houston Medical Forum President, and MR. D-MARS Brown Sugar Beauti Expo 2014 The 2014 Brown Sugar Beauti Expo featured the best in “all things beauty.” PAGE 14
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Houston Medical Forum Helps Shape Future Leaders in the Field of Medicine The best doctors and medicine in the world can’t save you if you don’t do what you’re supposed to do.” – Magic Johnson
December 2014 3
Journal Behind The
Publisher’s Message Keith J. Davis, Sr.
SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.
When the holiday season rolls around, it’s customary to want to celebrate with friends and family over good food and entertainment. I know I do. However, it’s important to remember during celebratory times the number one priority for you and your family – safety. This month’s issue of the Health & Wellness Journal includes useful tips and advice to help keep you safe and healthy this Holiday Season. Enjoy!
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis
VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
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.
Valerie Jones
ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla
Office Manager Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black
Contents
PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines
Houston Medical Forum Helps Shape Future Leaders in the Field of Medicine.......................................................................................................4 The 12 Days of Holiday Safety.........................................................................................................................................................................................................8
MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes
Perfect for Winter: Simple and Savory Stews........................................................................................................................................................................10
online support specialist
Inflammation Is A Deadly Silent Killer…Dentistry Saves Lives..........................................................................................................................................11
Anthony Torregosa
Safety Matters: Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday............................................................................................................................................................12
LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Nzuri 6th Annual Natural Hair, Health and Makeup Expo.................................................................................................................................................13
Angel Rosa
5 Must-Know Tips for Healthy Winter Travel..........................................................................................................................................................................13
DISTRIBUTION
Brown Sugar Beauti Expo 2014.....................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden
Defeat Drowsy Driving Dangers: Tips for Staying Awake at the Wheel.....................................................................................................................16
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Valerie Jones Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Rhonda Dallas Lisa Bradley d-mars.com News Provider
Are you Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level? 499.99
MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month Don’t overindulge on food this holiday. Healthy = Happy.
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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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4 December 2014
Houston
Medical Forum
Helps Shape Future Leaders in the Field of Medicine By Valerie Jones Associate Editor
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areers in the field of medicine are as varied as they are plentiful. Similarly, Houston is home to some of the brightest and promising young minds… students who wish to pursue an education in a field that helps so many. Health professions are desirable, but unfortunately, some individuals are not able to fulfill their dreams due to issues with money or lack of guidance. Organizations such as the Houston Medical Forum (HMF) aim to alleviate some of the obstacles encountered by aspiring medical students. Founded in 1958, HMF is a professional society for black physicians and surgeons in the Greater Houston area. Members better the practice of medicine and stimulate civic and cultural elements in the community through events such as their Holiday Scholarship Gala, held recently at The Westin Oaks Galleria. This year alone, HMF was able to give away 14 scholarships totaling $31,000 to cur-
rent minority medical students as well as students interested in pursuing degrees in medicine. “The cost of medical education is often prohibitive for talented students interested in medicine,” said Dr. Latisha Rowe, 2014 HMF Gala Chairperson. “The best students should never have to shy away from one of the most relevant and rewarding careers available due to cost. The HMF Gala allows students to pursue a career in medicine while focusing on what matters the most.” HMF’s mission, Dr. Rowe said, is simple: as a group, HMF strives to promote the art and science of medicine; the betterment of the practice of medicine among its members; the stimulation of a civic and cultural element in the community; and the fostering of social fellowship among the members, including the provision of scholarships to future black doctors and black medical students. In addition to monetary support, HMF provides mentoring to students already pursuing degrees in the medical field as well as those students who are interested in attending medical school.
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Houston Medical Forum
Web: www.houstonmedicalforum.org Phone: 281-583-6981 Email: info@houstonmedicalforum.com
“Growing up, it’s important to know that there are people who have come before you – completed medical school and gone on to become doctors or surgeons – because you realize that these goals and dreams are attainable,” said Dr. Kathy Flanagan, HMF member. Dr. Flanagan first got involved with HMF when she was a medical student herself attending The University of Texas Medical School at Houston before she matriculated to Baylor College of Medicine. She was mentored by past HMF president Dr. Shirley Marks. “My involvement with HMF has been extremely rewarding to me,” said Dr. Flanagan. “I’m sure fellow students can remember being at a majority institution with very few active minority role models on staff for us in medical school. Rec-
ognizing how important it was for me, I, too, have assumed the role as mentor.” HMF has made it a priority to identify and seek out those students who may benefit most from the organization’s assistance, specifically students at Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University. “We give scholarships to medical students as well as college students who are interested in medicine,” said Dr. Edward Mazique, HMF President. “We’ve identified students from Prairie View and TSU to encourage them to go into the field of medicine. Pursuing a medical degree is a difficult process and it’s expensive. We also mentor students throughout the entire process. There aren’t enough minorities in the medical schools in Houston.” In addition to visiting colleg-
es, members of HMF visit area high schools as well, encouraging and educating prospective medical students. “Students are very excited to speak with us and see people who have already gone through the process,” Dr. Mazique said. “Mentoring connects students with the doctors. Many of these students may be the first doctors in their families or even the first college graduate in their family. Medical school can be daunting. HMF tries to facilitate the process.” Dr. Mazique, who is originally from Washington, D.C., attended Howard University College of Medicine and continued training in Internal Medicine at D.C. General Hospital. He moved to Houston in 1981 and has been practicing internal medicine here ever since. “Historically, organizations like the Houston Medical Forum were necessary because of past discrimination of minorities in the medical profession,” Dr. Mazique said. “You had to have groups to fight injustice in the medical field. It used to be that we couldn’t go to hospitals or be enrolled in insurance plans. That’s not the case now, but it’s still important to educate the community about medical issues.” Dr. Mazique shared that HMF has future plans to become more politically active, especially when it involves public health. “For example, we’d like to educate the public about the Affordable Care Act. We want to expand our influence with that and what we can do as members,” he said. “We also plan in years ahead to increase our college scholarships, specifically with Prairie View and TSU because there is a greater need there.”
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Houston Medical Forum Scholarship Recipients
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December 2014  7
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8  December 2014
The
12
Days of Holiday Safety
serious health problems, especially in children and the elderly.
On the Third Day of Holiday Season I will travel safely. Taking road trips is always fun, but keep in mind not to drink behind the wheel. Wear your seatbelt and make sure the children have car seats.
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A
By Rhonda Dallas Contributing Writer
s we embark on this holiday season, it is very important to stay healthy and safe. We will be around a great deal of people and travel to numerous places this season. Staying healthy and safe will require us to follow some simple practices.
On the First Day of Holiday Season I will wash my hands often. This is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs. Soap is always the best practice, but using sanitizing sprays and gels is acceptable.
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On the Second Day of Holiday Season I will stay warm. Living in Houston, we can see all seasons in a matter of 24 hours. Even though it’s warm some days and cold other days, keeping warm in the winter can decrease
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On the Fourth Day of Holiday Season I will visit the doctor to get my yearly checkup. The end of the year is always a good time to make sure you and your family is up to date on their health and wellness visits as well as vaccinations. Most deductibles have been met, therefore making the visit affordable.
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On the Fifth Day of Holiday Season I will stop habits that can affect my health for next year. Smoking and excessive drinking can not only cause chronic diseases, but also cause death. Seek help this year to let go of habits before next year.
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On the Sixth Day of Holiday Season I will watch out for those who cannot take care of themselves. Children are at high risk for injuries during the holiday season. Keep a watchful eye on your kids when they are playing with their toys, eating, etc. Develop rules for them when it comes to
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safe behaviors and social media.
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On the Seventh Day of Holiday Season I will do my part to prevent injuries around the holidays. Use ladders and step stools to hang decorations. Keep candles away from children, pets and curtains. Be careful if you are using a generator or heater device. Test all equipment prior to using it each year. On the Eighth Day of Holiday Season I will handle and prepare my food safely. Preparing holiday meals can be a fun time, but remember you can become ill if food is not prepared or stored correctly. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, eggs and seafood away from food that is ready to eat. Do not leave cooked food out longer than two hours.
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On the Ninth Day of Holiday Season I will start or continue to exercise. During the holiday season, we intake 2,000 to 3,000 more calories per day, sometimes per meal. We need to stay physically fit after consuming additional calories. Walking after a meal can reduce the calories that you just
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digested. Committing to a low impact workout on a regular basis is ideal. On the Tenth Day of Holiday Season I will give back to those less fortunate. Tis the Season to be Jolly. During this time of the year, it is very important that we remember those who are less fortunate than us. Giving back is so rewarding and fulfilling. Find an organization that you can partner with this holiday season to make a difference.
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On the Eleventh Day of Holiday Season I will mentally, physically and spiritually spend some time with myself. It is very satisfying to take a step back from the hustle and bustle and reflect, write, read and execute what you learned from this year thus far. It is reflecting that will make us stronger and more apt to give birth to our ideas, dreams and desires for the New Year.
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On the Twelfth Day of Holiday Season I will manage stress. Stress is the number one trigger to acute and chronic conditions. We are working more than we ever had and seem to have an urgency to keep up with everything and everyone all the time. Slow down and you can get more done. Enjoy this Season by taking on new tasks.
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10 December 2014
Perfect for Winter: Simple and Savory Stews Beef Stew
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Ingredients
his hearty favorite is sure to please and comfort the tummies of the entire family this winter season!
2 lbs stew meat 1/4 cup flour 2 tablespoons oil 4 cups water 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons garlic 3/4 teaspoon pepper 2 bay leaves 4 carrots 2 stalks celery 4 medium red potatoes 3 small onions 2 green bell peppers 3 tablespoons flour 3 tablespoons water
Instructions 1. Place beef and flour in a plastic bag-
Photo and Recipe Courtesy of food.com
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gie; shake. 2. Pour oil into a large Dutch oven; heat. 3. Add beef and cook until brown, stirring occasionally. 4. Add water and next 4 ingredients. 5. Bring to a boil. 6. Cover. 7. Reduce heat and simmer 2 hours or until beef is tender. 8. Discard bay leaves. 9. Cut carrots, celery, potatoes, onion and bell pepper, then add to stew. 10. Cover and simmer 30 minutes, or until tender. 11. Combine water and flour, stirring well. 12. Pour into stew. 13. Boil, stirring constantly till thick and bubbly.
Chicken, Pasta and Chickpea Stew o make the soup ahead, omit the pasta and refrigerate or freeze the soup. As the soup reheats over medium heat, cook pasta separately according to package directions, then stir it in shortly before serving. Use leaves from celery stalks as a garnish.
Ingredients Cooking spray 1 cup thinly sliced celery 3/4 cup diced carrot 1/2 cup chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth 3 cups Basic Marinara 1 cup canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini (very short tube-shaped macaroni) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 8 ounces skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut
into 1/2-inch pieces 6 tablespoons shaved fresh Parmesan cheese
Instructions Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add celery, carrot and onion to pan; cook 12 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Add broth and next 4 ingredients (through pepper); bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 12 minutes or until pasta is tender. Add chicken to pan; cook 3 minutes or until chicken is done. Sprinkle with cheese.
Photo and Recipe Courtesy of myrecipes.com
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Seafood Bisque Ingredients
hile not technically a stew, this yummy recipe has the hearty goodness people crave during the colder weather months. Fresh seafood makes this recipe even more delicious.
2 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted 2-2/3 cups 2% milk 4 green onions, chopped 1/2 cup finely chopped celery 1 garlic clove, minced 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce 1-1/2 pounds uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed 1 jar (4-1/2 ounces) whole mushrooms, drained
3 tablespoons Madeira wine or chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Thinly sliced green onions, optional
Instructions
In a Dutch oven, combine the first 8 ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; add the shrimp, crab and mushrooms. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Stir in the wine, salt and pepper; cook 2-3 minutes longer. Top with onions if desired. Yield: 10 servings (2-1/2 quarts).
Photo and Recipe Courtesy of tasteofhome.com
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December 2014 11
Inflammation Is A Deadly Silent Killer… Dentistry Saves Lives
By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade Contributing Writer
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igh Blood Pressure – Is The Underlying Cause Inflammation? Technically the major factor in blood pressure is called “endothelial function” – the function of the inner lining of the blood vessels. While endothelial problems can occur from a number of factors such as diet, lifestyle and smoking, there is a surprising one that will need to be dealt with if you are to succeed in a long healthy life – inflammatory gum (periodontal) disease.
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f You Have High Blood Pressure, Check for Gum Disease Regarding the biological mechanism of this relationship, a recent study evaluated endothelial function in patients with periodontitis. Circulating levels of inflammatory chemicals were
significantly higher in the periodontitis subjects with hypertension than those in the control group. Periodontal therapy seems to reduce the concentrations of the inflammatory chemicals. It may be a problem with high levels of inflammation caused by gum disease that is making your blood pressure increase. The next paragraphs explain how this often “silent” illness can be easily, and painlessly, treated. Acute inflammation is characterized by the redness, heat, swelling and pain that is the immune system’s normal response to infection or injury. Immune cells congregate at the site so that they can overwhelm and dispose of infectious organisms or debris from injury. Thus, healing takes place. But there’s another kind of inflammation—lowgrade, chronic and “systemic.” It’s been getting a lot of attention lately.
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s Inflammation the Root of All Disease? Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that does not go away without treatment and it is a major cause of inflammation in many people. Inflammation causes the liver to secrete a protein called C-Reactive Protein (CRP, for short) to fight the problem which seems to cause a number of side effects in the body.
Wellness Assessment It Is Paramount To Get Testing To Diagnose Inflammation and Periodontal Disease • BANA enzyme periodontal pathogen Test • Computerized oral bacterial probing • HbA1c- Glycated hemoglobin for blood sugar levels • Hs- CRP – C- Reactive protein measures level of inflammation in your body Schedule Your Wellness Test!
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hy it may be Dangerous The reason you hear so much about this kind of inflammation is that it may underlie a kind of “unified field” explanation of disease. That is, some researchers now believe that low-grade inflammation is associated with everything from heart disease and diabetes to Alz-
heimer’s and arthritis, and may even be the cause of most chronic diseases. There is an easy way to test for inflammation since it can prompt the liver to produce a substance called C-Reactive Protein (CRP), which can often signal an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. This is not an entirely new theory. Inflammation was implicated in cancer many years ago.
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ow Does Oral Disease Cause Inflammation – Periodontal Disease If you have periodontal disease, you have periodontal bacteria living in “periodontal pockets” in your gums. This is why your hygienist will measure your “pocket depths” at each hygiene recall visit. When your immune system detects the periodontal bacteria, it will release “inflammatory cytokines,” or chemicals, to kill the bacteria. However, since the bacteria are safe in their “pockets,” they continue to live for another day and cause the immune system to continue to release chemicals. Therefore you have “chronic inflammation” which does not go away and increases the inflammatory process everywhere else it might be active in the body. 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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12 December 2014
Safety Matters: Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday By Lisa Bradley
Contributing Writer
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ime waits for no one, especially when the holidays are rapidly approaching. Chaotic lifestyles get just that more hectic this time of year as everyone is racing against time to meet deadlines, preparing for events, making purchases to get all of the last minute things done just in time for the holiday and the list goes on. It is imperative to remember that while the festivities are all in the making, safety should be a priority and at the top of your to-do list. For those who opt to celebrate the holiday by putting up Christmas décor and trees, be sure to inspect old lights and electrical plugs; not overloading outlets is essential because fires can be more common this time of year. While many opt for artificial trees and décor, keep in mind, real trees need water and ensuring tree stands have water is necessary to keep the trees moistened as dry trees beget fires. Along with décor and creating the proper ambiance, candle lighting is ideal and the perfect setting for a jovial mood; however, candles can be dangerous, so never leave them unattended. This is the perfect time to ensure your smoke detectors are working properly and you have batteries in place should the need arise. Fires are most prevalent this time
of year so while having working detectors are vital, having an escape plan and route is equally crucial. Create a plan and implement it with family so all will be aware of the escape route should a fire transpire. Holiday shopping is huge and with technology today, not only is shopping at the mall something that can be worrisome, but online shopping can as well. If you opt to go shopping, remember to travel light and be watchful of your surroundings. While shopping can be enjoyable for most, this time of year is the time to be most cautious. Be sure to park in areas that are well lit when where there is a vast amount of traffic; carry limited funds and only the credit cards you will be using and leave others at home. Don’t forget to conceal packages so nothing is detectable to the naked eye; thieves prey on those who are negligent, so be cautious. This time of year, people often break into cars because criminals realize the likelihood of finding packages in cars are greater during holiday season. Do not give them easy access to the items you work so hard to purchase. Should you need to place packages in your vehicle while you continue to shop, lock all doors and place all items in the trunk or in concealed compartments. Online shopping is the absolute greatest and the ultimate convenience. Shopping is greater when it can be done with the click of a mouse. Even so, there are precautions you should take. When
shopping online, be sure to shop from secure websites only. Do not divulge personal information such as credit card information via email for any reason. Stay on top of your credit statements and banking to defray any fraudulent activity. Mobile apps are hugely popular, so be sure to only download those that are legitimate and secure. Be mindful of passwords by keeping them secure. Stay focused and be watchful even when taking packages home. Do not leave big box items on the curb for all to see because that’s a surefire way to promote a home burglary. Discard all boxes of items in garbage bags before disposing of them. Remember to keep your home lit, especially if you will be away for the holidays. A great rule of thumb is to have preset timers in place to create a sense of normalcy. While all of these tips are essential to having a safe holiday, there’s one more to add to your list of safeguards. Drinking responsibly is not an option; it’s a requirement to save your life and others. There are a plethora of festivities as the holiday approaches and
dressing up and celebrating with spirits is customary during this time of year. Should you opt to toast the celebratory events with a drink, remember to take a cab, call a friend or have a designated driver and never drink and drive. This
is the time for friends, family and enjoying each other’s company; the only way that can happen is if you are safe, happy and healthy. Have a wonderfully blessed holiday!
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December 2014 13
In the Health Community…
To View More Photos, Visit Our Website www.d-mars.com and Click on ‘Photos.’
Nzuri 6th Annual Natural Hair, Health and Makeup Expo
5 Must-Know Tips for Healthy Winter Travel
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By d-mars.com News Provider
hether heading to grandma’s house for the holidays or to a tropical destination to get away from the cold, winter travel comes with the added challenge of staying healthy. Crowded airports and train stations and tight guest quarters make us all more exposed to germs – and this year’s cold and flu season is projected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be among America’s worst yet. Vacation illnesses or injuries are not only inconvenient and expensive, but of-
ten completely preventable. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your family healthy during this year’s winter adventures: 1. Pack a travel first aid kit. You can purchase a kit at a local pharmacy or easily make your own. Include essentials like bandages, alcohol swabs, hand sanitizer and over-the-counter treatments for colds, allergies, aches and pains and indigestion. 2. Keep health information handy. Travel with your health insurance card and a good supply of any prescription medication your family will need (bring a few extra for good measure). As backup, snap a photo of your prescription labels in case you need a refill on
the road. Keep these important items on your person instead of packing them in your checked baggage. 3. Sleep when you can. A tired body is a susceptible body. Resist the urge to binge on airplane movies during that cross country flight. Instead, rely on your eye mask, ear plugs and cozy socks to help you log a few extra hours of rest, relaxation and cold-fighting. 4. Don’t spread germs. Before going in for a round of hugs, kisses and handshakes straight from your journey, wash your hands or put that travel-size hand sanitizer you packed to good use. Helping to prepare family dinner? Use a spoon just once for taste-testing; no double-dipping this year!
5. Find the best local care. Don’t try to wish away a runny nose or aches and pains. If you do need to see a doctor, don’t get stuck wasting time or cash in overcrowded and expensive emergency rooms or urgent care clinics. Use a handy online website and app like ZocDoc to find local doctors who take your insurance, read reviews from real patients and book a quick appointment. The typical patient booking with ZocDoc sees a doctor within 24 hours. With these simple tips, you and your family will be well-prepared to avoid illness on the road. And if you do get sick, you’ll have the tools you need to recover and get back to your vacation as soon as possible. (BPT)
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14 December 2014
Brown Sugar Beauti Expo 2014
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he 2014 Brown Sugar Beauti Expo featured the best in “all things beauty.” More than 300 Brown Sugar Beauties enjoyed complimentary manicures, waxing and chair massages, makeup and hair makeovers, product samples and giveaways – and the signature Beauty Goodie Buffet – which included products from Mizani, Jamaican Mango & Lime, Taliah Waajid, Natural Souls Hair Cottage, Earth’s Nectar and Grorganics, among others. Host Ashley Simpson effortlessly worked the stage and captivated the audience for a second year in a row. The day’s entertainment featured firestorm poet Blessed Empress, neo-soul songbird Marium Echo and Houston’s own DJ SupaStar. Featured sponsors and vendors included: d-mars.com, Tendrils & Curls, Earth’s Nectar, Naturally Happy Hair Magazine, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Colour Nail Bar, Jamaican Mango & Lime and Kay’s Kettle Corn.
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December 2014  15
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16 December 2014
Defeat Drowsy Driving Dangers: Tips for Staying Awake at the Wheel
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By d-mars.com News Provider
ne in five fatal accidents in America involves a drowsy driver, according to a recent report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Unfortunately, driving while fatigued is common in today’s business world. Yet the consequences of driving when you’re tired can be tragic. “Drowsiness is similar to alcohol in how it compromises driving ability by reducing alertness and attentiveness, delaying reaction times and hindering decision-making skills,” said Dr. Nathaniel Watson, president-elect of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and national spokesperson for the National Healthy Sleep Awareness Project, which is raising awareness of the dangers of driving while fatigued. “Drowsy driving is deadly, but it can be prevented.” The Healthy Sleep Project has issued a Drowsy Driving Health Advisory, which urges every driver to take responsibility for staying awake at the wheel. Drivers should make it a daily priority to get sufficient sleep, refuse to drive when sleep-deprived, recognize the signs of drowsiness and pull off the road to a safe location when sleepy. “Rolling down the windows or turning up the music will do little to increase your alertness while driving,” Watson said. “You can drink coffee for a short-term energy boost, but if you catch yourself drifting into other lanes or nodding off, it’s absolutely time to pull over and take a nap.” Getting seven to nine hours of nightly sleep is the best way to prevent drowsy driving, according to the Healthy Sleep Project. Drivers should also avoid driving late at night or alone, and they should share the driving with another passenger on long trips. How do you know if you’re too sleepy to drive? If you experience any of these warning signs, you should pull over or have another passenger take the wheel: • You keep yawning or are unable to keep your eyes open. • You catch yourself “nodding off” and have trouble keeping your head up. • You can’t remember driving the last few miles. • You end up too close to cars in front of you. • You miss road signs or drive past your turn. • You drift into the other lane of traffic. • You drift onto the “rumble strip” or onto the shoulder of the road. The Healthy Sleep Project also encourages transportation companies to promote public safety by adhering to hours-of-service regulations, scheduling work shifts based on sleep need and circadian timing, implementing an evidence-based fatigue management system and screening commercial drivers for sleep diseases such as obstructive sleep apnea. “There is no substitute for healthy sleep – it’s essential to promote personal safety and optimal alertness behind the wheel,” Watson said. “Evaluate your sleep habits, address potential problems with a board-certified sleep specialist and make sleep a priority to protect yourself, your passengers and other drivers from avoidable, life-threatening accidents caused by drowsiness.” For more information, visit projecthealthysleep.org. (BPT)
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