FREE Ten Minutes to Feeling Good Every Day Page 6
No. 1 • December • 2008
FREE TAKE ONE Skin Care Regimen Protects Against Environmental Damage Page 7
SERVING BROWARD, PALM BEACH COUNTIES AND SURROUNDING AREAS
Exercise Tips for Seniors
www.floridahealthnews-online.com
Page 3
Instances of Autism Page 9 on the Rise
Keep Your Dog Healthy
With so many things to do and events to attend, the last thing anyone needs is more holiday stress. So when it’s your turn to host a holiday meal, take advantage of these tips and recipes so you can enjoy it as much as your guests do.
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DECEMBER • 2008
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Contact us today and save on your printing needs! Tel: 561-969-2890 It's important for people of all ages, especially seniors, to stay active. According to the Centers for Disease Control, being physically active can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease and decreases the risk for colon cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.
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hysical activity also helps control weight; contributes to healthy bones, muscles and joints; relieves the pain of arthritis; reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression; and can decrease the need for hospitalizations, physician visits and medications. Indeed, there's a lot riding on incorporating exercise into your lifestyle.
There's no better time than now to start exercising. Be sure to check with your doctor before increasing your physical activity, especially if you have a chronic disease or family history of chronic disease, chest pain, shortness of breath, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, blood clots, infections or fever, joint swelling, hip surgery or a hernia.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
■ Don't just jump into a fitness routine. First, stretch your arms, legs and back. Start off slowly, gradually increasing the pace of your exercise. Don't do too much too soon or you will hurt yourself. For example, the AARP suggests starting with 10 minutes
of walking before going to 20 and then 30 minutes. For a strength-training program using weights and machines, talk to a fitness instructor on how much weight to lift and how to use the machines properly.
■ Exercise should make you feel better, not worse. A little soreness, discomfort or fatigue is normal. Listen to your body - if you feel lightheaded, a shortness of breath, a sudden, severe headache, are sweating excessively, or have pains in the chest, stomach or anywhere else, you should stop exercising. If symptoms persist, contact your doctor.
■ If you are on medication or have a condition that alters your heart rate, don't use your pulse as a judge of how fast your heart is or should be beating.
■ Wear the proper protective equipment for your activity. If you are biking, wear a helmet. If you are in-line skating, wear a helmet as well as knee and elbow pads. Protective gear should be of good quality and fit properly. It may be expensive, but it's an expense that is well worth it. ■ Watch out for the elements. If it's hot, exercise in the early morning or early evening when it's cooler, or stay in the shade and wear lightweight clothing. If it's cold, dress in layers, and be careful of ice and snow.
■ It's especially important to stay hydrated when you are engaging in exercise that makes you sweat. Drink before, during and after exercise to prevent dehydration. ■ A cool down is just as important as a warm up. Stretch your arms, legs and back to bring your heart rate back to its normal level.
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4 DECEMBER • 2008 Emergency Phone Numbers
Emergency Municipality Numbers Atlantis 561 965-1700 Belle Glade 561 996-7270 Boca Raton 561 368-6201 Boynton Beach 561 742-6329 Cloud Lake 561 686-2815 Delray Beach 561 243-7800 Greenacres 561 642-2160 Gulf Stream 561 243-7800 Haverhill 561 689-0370 Highland Beach 561 266-5800 Hypoluxo 561 582-0155 Jupiter 561 746-6201 Lake Worth 561 586-1611 Lantana 561 540-5700 Manalapan 561 585-4030 Mangonia Park 561 848-2512 North Palm Beach 561 848-2525 Ocean Ridge Police Dept. 561 732-8331 Pahokee 561 996-1670 Palm Beach 561 838-5454 Palm Beach Gardens 561 799-4445 Palm Springs 561 968-8243 Riviera Beach 561 845-4111 Royal Palm Beach 561 790-5180 South Palm Beach 561 586-2122 Tequesta 561 575-6210 Wellington 561 791-4000 West Palm Beach 561 822-2222 Palm Beach County Emergency Mgmt. 561 712-6400 TDD (Hearing Impaired) 561 712-6343 Red Cross 561 833-7711 Sheriff 561 688-3000 Sheriff (Boca) 561 995-2800 Sheriff (Delray) 561 274-1075 Sheriff (Belle Glade) 561 996-1670 Building Dept. 561 233-5100 Animal Control 561 233-1200 Victim Services 561 355-2418 Hotline 866 891-7273 TYY 355-1772 Insurance Hotlines/All Counties Florida Dept. of Financial Services 800 342-2762 State Farm 800 732-5246 Allstate 800 547-8676 Citizens 800 636-8511 Nationwide 800 421-3535 USAA (Military) 800 531-8222
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM Dear readers: Thank you for allowing us into your homes, with this first edition of Florida Health News, which is aimed to provide the best health information to our readers and all the members of their family.
We all agree on the importance of health. Being healthy starting with yourself and your family, is a natural yearning, personal, familial, social and global levels.
But over the course of daily life, one way or another we neglect this goal: have not active life, obesity, smoking, poor diet, stress, to mention some bad habits that we have at present.
Florida Health News has emerged with the purpose of providing the best information to maintain good physical and mental health for you and your family, local news and current affairs, also to help you find the best and professional services, which are of great benefit for all inhabitants of the county of Broward, Palm Beach and surrounding areas.
Want to improve your health and your family? Improve your diet with foods that will provide vitamins, minerals to your body, doing exercises regularly, because both a balanced diet alongside an exercise routine, are necessary for maintaining good health. In Florida Health News wishes to offer you the best information to you and all your family, your suggestions and comments are welcome to send us their events that are geared to the community of Broward and Palm Beach to be published in each of our editions, because we want our newspaper is an open door to all information that is of benefit to our community.
We hope that you continue to accompany us in every edition of Palm Beach Health News, the best way to support us is to visit our advertisers, whom we thank them for believing in this project which will be of great benefit to the entire counties of Broward and Palm Beach.
Until next time.
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F orida Health NEWS
PUBLISHER Sergio Aguilar editor@FloridaHealthNews-Online.com SALES Michael Antoine 561-685-3245 michael@floridahealthnews-online.com Elia Calderon 561-667-8756 elia@floridahealthnews-online.com CONTACT US PO Box 542527 Lake Worth, FL 33454-2527 Tel: 561-716-5054 Tel/Fax: 561-969-2890 info@floridahealthnews-online.com WEB SITE www.floridahealthnews-online.com CONTRIBUTING ARTICLES U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Contexto Latino, ARA Content, Hispanic PR Wire, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, METRO Editorial Services, Family Features, Florida Health News is a newspaper published every month in Broward, Palm Beach, and surrounding areas. Copyright 2008, all rights reserved by SEA Publications, Inc. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts not responsibility for advertisement error beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no resposibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials are subject to editing. Š SEA PUBLICATIONS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
DECEMBER • 2008
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
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FAMILY FEATURES
f you were born between 1946 and 1964, you’re one of nearly 78 million Baby Boomers. Many Boomers are investing more time to learn about healthier food options as well as what they can do to improve overall health and wellness. So what can you do to improve your health and possibly even slow the aging process?
Mind, Body, Spirit
When it comes to a healthier lifestyle, mental and emotional attitudes can be just as important as diet and exercise. Activities that bring true satisfaction and help keep people energized and engaged are vital. Volunteering, continuing education and creative expression are some of the ways to stay active and improve quality of life. In fact, a recent report found a significant correlation between volunteering and good health. The 2007 report called “The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research” (from the Corporation for National and Community Service) showed that volunteers have: greater longevity higher functional ability lower rates of depression less incidence of heart disease
Building Blocks of Nutrition
As we age, we have different nutritional needs. At least 36 percent of Boomers suffer from cardiovascular disease. As the metabolism slows down, it’s possible to gain weight, even if your diet hasn’t changed. Nutrition considerations for Boomers include: Vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron, to help maintain healthy bones and improve brain function and boost energy. Fiber to aid in digestion and weight loss, lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent some types of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Healthier fats — mono- and polyunsaturated fats — that have been proven to reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and maintain or increase “good” HDL cholesterol levels, which has been associated with a reduction in the risk of heart disease. Protein to build and maintain lean muscle mass and help you feel fuller longer.
How to Build Better Health
Moderation. A slowing metabolism requires an increased awareness of portion control. Registered dietitians (RDs) recommend eating smaller meals, and say that snacking in between meals can help maintain energy throughout the day. Variety. Eat a wide assortment of foods that provide the nutrients we need more of, such as fiber and healthier fats, but less of the foods that contain saturated fat, sodium and other nutrients that recommendations advise us to limit. Nutrient Rich. Choose foods that give you the “bang for your buck.” For example, packed with protein, fiber, good fats and vitamins, nuts are an excellent example of a nutrient rich food. Activity. Regular physical activity, whether higher intensity such as swimming or daily activities such as gardening, can help reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. As part of a healthier lifestyle, look for foods and snacks that are 100 percent natural. With more and more snacks available that are convenient, made with natural, simple ingredients and fit into a healthier eating plan, it’s easy to incorporate them into your diet. Nuts, for instance, continue to be a popular, healthier snack. Snacks such as Frito-Lay’s TrueNorth nut snacks put a new spin on nuts through unique shapes, textures and tastes. This line offers a 100 percent natural, wholesome snacking option to satisfy the adventurous who have a mindful approach to life and wellness. It’s never too late to start improving health and making the most of life. By building on the basics of good nutrition, finding something to be passionate about and staying active, it’s possible to build a better life, no matter what your age. For more on TrueNorth snacks, visit www.truenorthsnacks.com.
Protein Power
You need protein at all stages of life, for a variety of bodily functions. It’s the major component of all cells and is needed for growth, development and building a strong immune system to fight off infections. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 56 grams a day for men and 46 grams for women.
Healthier Snacking Tips
Include fiber and antioxidant rich foods to your diet. Eating whole grains, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds will help you achieve a healthier diet. Pay attention to hunger. Ask yourself if you’re really hungry or if you’re just reaching for food out of emotion (such as boredom or sadness) or just to satisfy a craving. Eat in moderation. Always check serving sizes on pre-packaged foods. Avoid eating out of a multi-serving bag. Always put the portion you plan to eat into a separate container and put the package away.
Nutty Snack Ideas
Sprinkle granola or TrueNorth Clusters on yogurt. For good portion control, put one ounce of TrueNorth Crisps into individual baggies for ready-to-go snacks.
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6 DECEMBER • 2008
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
HEAL H Active Young Women OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY Need Calcium, Vitamin D
BOARD CERTIFIED “Personalized Care in A Warm Friendly Family Atmosphere”
Felix Andarsio, D.O., F.A.C.O.G.
561-784-1099
1397 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 440 • Wellington
(NW Corner of Forest Hill & State Rd. 441 Next to Wellington Regional Hospital)
Most Insurances Accepted
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Start the Day off Right
Ten Minutes to Feeling Good Every Day
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s the days begin to grow shorter and shorter, it's likely you're finding your to-do list has reached a length of world-record length proportions. With so much on your plate, it is easy to forget to take care of yourself.
Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, recommends you take at least 10 minutes each morning and dedicate them to doing something good for yourself. She's developed several simple and easy tips that can boost your mood and productivity before even stepping out the door. "Ten minutes may not seem like it will make a difference, but it’s plenty of time to get your day started off right," says Bonci. "It's important to remember that living a healthy lifestyle is a life-long commitment – that doesn't necessarily need to take a lot of your valuable time."
Confidence is Key: Say to yourself out loud “I can and I will take care of myself today.”
Movers and Shakers: Whether it’s a walk on your favorite nature trail or your favorite step aerobics class, even 10 minutes of exercise can pump your heart and muscles and get you revved up for the day. Can't make it to the gym? Then spend a few minutes each morning stretching to help make your body more flexible.
Gut Check: If your gut feels good, then you feel good, so incorporate probiotics into your daily diet. Probiotics are live cultures that exist naturally in the digestive system and are helpful for maintaining digestive health.
For an easy snack, grab a Liveactive Chewy Granola Bar. They are the first nationally available non-refrigerated snack bars that contain a live probiotic culture and fiber (and 3 to 4.5 grams of fat per serving depending on the flavor of bar) -- throw one into your bag to help promote the health of your digestive system, anytime, anywhere!
Drink Up: A large glass of water is one of the best (and easiest!) ways to give your body the fluid it needs.
Add a Splash of Color: Eat or drink something that contains color – a piece of fruit or glass of vegetable juice.
Breath of Fresh Air: Fresh air cleans our lungs. Many adults spend at least eight hours inside of the buildings where they work. Leave your car in the garage and walk to the bus or train. This will ensure you're breathing in fresh air for at least a few minutes each day.
For more tips about healthy living, visit www.LiveActivefoods.com.
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Calcium and vitamin D supplements may do more than strengthen bones in older women. These vital nutrients may also help younger, active women reduce their risk of stress fractures.
o illustrate that point, many bone health experts refer to a recent study of more than 5,200 female U.S. Navy recruits that found that women who didn't take additional calcium and vitamin D were about 25 percent more likely to suffer a stress fracture than women who took the vitamin and mineral combination.
"The most common time for a stress fracture is when you're increasing your exercise levels -- when you're going from doing nothing to doing a whole lot. It's too much, too fast, and the bone can't handle it," explained Dr. Sabrina Strickland, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.
"Before you embark on any sort of exercise regimen, take calcium and vitamin D supplements to reduce your chances of a stress fracture," she advised.
Stress fractures occur when muscles become tired and can't absorb shock properly. That force is then transferred to the bone instead. After time, that added shock can cause a tiny crack in the bone.
More than half of all stress fractures occur in the lower leg, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Women are more likely to suffer stress fractures, particularly women involved in just one particular sport, such as running, tennis, gymnastics or basketball.
"Stress fractures are seen in people who do the same activity over and over again," said Dr. Elton Strauss, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at the Mount Sinai Medical School in New York City.
Finally, when you begin a new activity, take it slow, Strickland advised. "Don't do too much too fast. The typical rule for runners, and one almost nobody follows, is to increase the amount of running by 10 percent each week," she said.
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
Skin Care Regimen Protects Against Environmental Damage
The Great Outdoors provides a veritable Catch-22 when it comes to overall health. While the advantages of spending time in the fresh air and sunshine can be exhilarating and cathartic, those same elements in addition to other hidden dangers can pose potential year-round health threats, particularly to the skin.
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any people have subjected their skin to years of abuse, whether sunbathing or skiing the slopes without protection. But there are measures that they can take to help combat any damage that may have occurred. Additionally, there are steps to take to protect the skin for years to come.
■ Always use sunscreen. Skin-care professionals recommend always applying sunscreen before heading outdoors, even for relatively short times exposed to the sun. Conventional practices suggest using a sunscreen with a an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Anything less could lead to sunburn or other, more serious problems down the road. Sunblocks should be applied all year, not just during the peak summer season. Even though it may be cold outdoors, that does not negate the power of ultraviolet rays. Plus, a landscape covered in pure white snow can reflect the sun's rays and lead to nasty burn as well.
■ Bundle up. Just as you'd wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses in the summer, protect your skin from the harsh wind and icy temperatures of winter. Persistent cold air can dry out the skin considerably, which will exacerbate dry skin problems and could promote premature wrinkling. Not to mention the sting from wind and cold is just uncomfortable. Wrap a scarf around your neck and face and continue to wear sunglasses. Cover up with gloves, as the hands also take a beating if not protected.
Who said… that advertising nobody reads it, you did it.
DECEMBER • 2008
WOMAN
■ Pollution can cause trouble. Environmental factors apart from sun and wind can also damage the skin. Pollution contributes to the number of free radicals in the air, which can cause diminished vitality and appearance of the skin. Minimize exposure to smoke, smog and areas where pollution is prevalent. Wash your face thoroughly after any exposure and make sure to eat a balanced diet of fruits rich in antioxidants to help combat the effect of free radicals.
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Lady’s Care Center Dr. Espinal open her new office in Miramar:
Rely on the right skin-care products. To help the skin looks its best,
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use skin-care products that can address the premature aging and damage to the skin the environment may cause. Yves Rocher Laboratories, for instance, recently finished years of work on an anti-aging cream that combines ingredients that play a strong role in replenishing skin. Riche Crème's Deep Regenerating Crème was designed specifically as an anti-aging remedy, utilizing such ingredients as Fatty Acids, Omega 6, ProVitamin A and Vitamin E, each of which has been known to renew skin cells.
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Dr. Ladynez Espinal, can assure you a great medical care of highest quality.
Dr. Espinal, gynecologist and obstetrician, has just opened a medical center in Miramar, FL.
he medical center provides comprehensive care for highlevel women's health, with the latest technological developments and a last-care model. Among its many services are caring gynecologist, including teenagers, dispensing contraceptives, the relieve of urinary incontinence and treatment of bladder and uterus fallen. Consultations are done on the prevention and treatment of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and were given the vaccine Gardasil, which protects against HPV virus, which can cause genital warts and cervical cancer. It also provides various kinds of treatments for abnormal uterine bleeding, such as surgical treatments Thermachoice and Novasure, which are administered in
the same medical center. In the medical center, Dr. Espinal offered minimal-incision surgery to remove the common post surgical purposes, such as severe pain, prolonged recovery and the scars incisions in the abdomen large. Examples of minimal incision that Dr. Espinal practice, is the laparoscopic hysterectomy and transvaginal sling. Are also aesthetic surgery of the vagina, as the tight surgical vaginal canal and labial reduction (labiaplasty). Provides a weight loss program specialist for the female body.
Dr. Espinal, who is bilingual in English and Spanish, believes that her health deserves a compassionate and caring staff. She assures you a full medical care of highest quality, managed in their language and respecting their culture and values. For more information: 954-538-1700. Monday trough friday and some saturdays by appoinment.
Ladynez Espinal, MD Is pleased to announce the opening of her new office
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specializing in aesthetic vaginal surgery (vaginal rejuvenation) and complete women’s healthcare including obstetrics, gynecology, adolescent gynecology, family planning, gynecologic surgery, weight loss management and menopausal medicine
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Most insurance plans accepted - open some saturdays Phone: 954.538.1700 • www.Ladys-Care.com 3000 SW 148th Avenue, Suite 215, Miramar, FL 33027
8 DECEMBER • 2008
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FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
Cranberry Cheese Bars, MakeAhead Party Mashed Potatoes and Salmon Pastries With Dill Pesto
FAMILY FEATURES
ith so many things to do and events to attend, the last thing anyone needs is more holiday stress. So when it’s your turn to host a holiday meal, take advantage of these tips and recipes so you can enjoy it as much as your guests do.
Make lists.
Keep it simple.
Writing things down will help you stay organized and not leave anything out. Don’t wear yourself out trying to decorate every inch of the house or by cooking a complicated four-course meal you’ve never tried before. A simple wreath, some pretty candles, and a menu of tried and true favorites are all you need.
Use short-cuts.
Why chop two pounds of carrots when you can get them pre-cut at the store? When you buy things such as bagged lettuces and bottled dressings, you’re also buying yourself some time.
Make ahead.
Choose a menu that includes some items that you can make a day or two in advance such as Make Ahead Party Mashed Potatoes or Cranberry Cheese Bars. You want to be out of the kitchen and ready to enjoy your guests when they arrive.
Here are some recipes to help you start planning your menu. Any one of these easy-to-make dishes is a delicious addition to your stress-free holiday meal. For more delicious recipes, visit www.crisco.com, www.hungryjack.com and www.eaglebrand.com.
Salmon Pastries With Dill Pesto
This recipe was a $5000 category winner in the 43rd Pillsbury Bake-Off ® Contest Servings: 24 appetizers Prep Time: 25 minutes 1/2 cup lightly packed chopped fresh dill weed 1/3 cup Crisco® Light Olive Oil 1/4 cup Fisher® Chef’s Naturals® Chopped Walnuts 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 1 clove garlic 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper, if desired 3/4 pound salmon fillet, thawed if frozen and patted dry 1 package (15 ounces) Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box Dill weed sprigs Heat oven to 400°F. In food processor bowl with metal blade or in blender, place chopped dill weed, oil, walnuts, lime juice, garlic, mustard, 1/2 cup of the cheese, the salt and pepper. Cover; process, stopping once to scrape side of bowl, until smooth. If salmon has skin or bones, remove them; rinse fillet and pat dry with paper towel. Cut salmon into 24 (1-inch) cubes. On cutting board, roll 1 pie crust into 12-inch round. Cut into 4 rows by 3 rows to make 12 (4 x 3-inch) rectangles. Repeat with remaining crust. (Rectangles cut at edge of crust will have rounded side.) Spoon 1 level teaspoon dill pesto onto center of each rectangle; top with 1 salmon cube. Bring 4 corners of each rectangle over filling to center and pinch at top; pinch corners, leaving small openings on sides to vent steam. (For rectangles with rounded side, bring 3 points together at top, pinching to seal.) On ungreased large cookie sheet, place pastries 1 inch apart. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Place remaining pesto in small resealable foodstorage plastic bag. Cut small tip off 1 bottom corner of bag; squeeze bag to drizzle pesto over serving plate. Place pastries on serving plate. Sprinkle pastries with remaining cheese and garnish with dill weed sprigs. Serve warm.
Make-Ahead Party Mashed Potatoes
Servings: 24 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray 6 cups water 12 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 teaspoons garlic salt 2 teaspoons onion salt 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, cubed and softened 2 cups milk 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream Paprika 1 (15.3-ounce) package Hungry Jack® Mashed Potatoes, flakes (9 cups) Cooked bacon, chopped (optional) Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 13 x 9-inch oven safe casserole with no-stick cooking spray; set aside. Heat water, butter, garlic salt and onion salt to boiling in a 6-quart Dutch oven. Remove from heat. Add cream cheese, milk and sour cream, stirring until cream cheese is dissolved.
Stir in potato flakes, mixing until all ingredients are well combined. Spread mashed potato mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle with paprika and bake 1 hour or until bubbling around edges and golden brown. Top with bacon and parsley, if desired. Tip: Before adding paprika and baking, potato mixture can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Sprinkle with paprika and bake as directed above.
Cranberry Cheese Bars
Servings: 2 dozen Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 55 minutes 2 cups Pillsbury Best® all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups oats 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon firmly packed brown sugar 1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 (14-ounce) can Eagle Brand ® Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk) 1/4 cup lemon juice 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 (16-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
Preheat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, combine flour, oats, 3/4 cup brown sugar and butter; mix until crumbly.
Reserving 1 1/2 cups crumb mixture, press remainder firmly on bottom of greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Bake 15 minutes.
In small bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in condensed milk until smooth; stir in lemon juice. Spread evenly over prepared crust.
In small bowl, combine remaining 1 tablespoon brown sugar and cornstarch; stir in cranberry sauce. Spoon evenly over cream cheese layer. Top with reserved crumb mixture. Bake 40 minutes or until golden. Cool. Chill. Cut into bars. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator.
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
Instances of Autism on the Rise
In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report that raised many an eyebrow across the country. Examining the prevalence of autism in the United States, the report concluded that autism figures were rising rapidly, affecting 1 in every 150 American children.
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hose figures translate to roughly 1.5 million Americans with some form of autism today, making autism the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, which are characterized by severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development. As autism draws more public interest and concern, the desire to understand autism continues to grow as well.
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological disorder that affects certain functions of the brain, such as the development of communication skills and areas of social interaction. According to the Autism Society of America (ASA), autism will appear during the first three years of life.
What Are the Symptoms of Autism?
Behaviors associated with autism might not present themselves in infancy, but typically become obvious during early childhood (anywhere from 24 months to 6 years of age). According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the following five behaviors should require further evaluation beyond the typical well-child visit: • baby does not coo or babble by 12 months • baby does not gesture (wave, point or grasp) by 12 months • child does not say single words by 16 months • child does not say two-word phrases on his or her own by 24 months • loss of language or social skill at any age
While none of these symptoms guarantee a child has autism, should any of these symptoms show themselves, it’s important to have a further evaluation by a team of doctors. Parents should consider consulting a neurologist, psychologist, developmental pediatrician, and a speech/language therapist.
What Causes Autism?
Unfortunately, researchers have yet to determine one single cause for autism. Brain scans have shown differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism versus neuro-typical children, and it has become widely accepted that autism is the result of these abnormalities in structure and function. As for what causes those abnormalities, research continues to be conducted into the possiblities. One theory that is gaining steam is a genetic vulnerablity to autism. Autism tends to occur more frequently among individuals with certain medical conditions, such as congential rubella syndrome, Fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis. Research has also indicated that environmental factors could be contributing to the rise in autism. Evironmental toxins such as mercury are more prevalent in the current environment than in the past. Children who might be especially vulnerable, such as those who might have any of the aforementioned genetic conditions, have difficulty metabolizing and detoxifying mercury, which could make them more susceptible to autism.
Is There Anything Parents Can Do?
While there remains no cure for autism, research has shown that early intervention can have a profound impact on reducing the symptoms. Research indicates that the youngest brains are the most flexible, making it easier for intervention techniques to be more effective the earlier the symptoms are detected. For more information on autism and to find an ASA chapter near you, visit the Autism Society of America Web site at www.autism-society.org.
Test Your Health By age 80, ___ of all people in the United States either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. A. More than half B. Half C. Less than half
DECEMBER • 2008
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Answer: A Cataracts, which cause clouding of the lens in your eye, are very common in older people.
Make the Right Improvements in this Cooling Housing Market 10 DECEMBER • 2008
FLORIDAHEALTHNEWS-ONLINE.COM
”You don’t want to end up being the most expensive house for sale in your area, which will make it much harder for you to sell or negotiate price.”
Visit a family member’s new home and you may be inspired to renovate your home, thinking it will be a worthwhile investment. Remodeling can cost a pretty penny, but it can provide significant returns when it comes time to sell your home — if you do it right.
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ertain home renovations can make your home more enjoyable and more marketable. Others, however, can be costly with no guarantee for a future pay-off. If you’re looking to make wise decisions, the first rule is to avoid the unusual in terms of improvements. The experts at The Home Depot offer the following for consideration. 1. Bathrooms and Kitchens: Mid-level kitchen and bath remodels can offer some of the highest returns available (92.9 % kitchen, 102.2% - bath*.) The kitchen has always been the gathering place for Hispanic families. Therefore, potential buyers want it to stand out and be updated. Kitchen remodels can range from new appliances, to new countertops, to adding an island. Experts say that an extra bathroom can be very appealing for families, and most agree that
4. Decks: Consider adding a deck if they are common in your area. Decks increase outdoor living and entertaining space and definitely improve the curb appeal of the home. Staging the deck with upscale outdoor furniture that provides an outdoor oasis can definitely entice buyers.
Renovation Surprises
you can’t lose on adding a bath to a home if there is space.
2. New Siding: To improve curb appeal and give your home a major facelift, new siding, particularly high-end siding offers a very high return. The new siding will be attractive and can increase energy efficiency, making it beneficial for buyers. Lean toward the neutral shades of siding when making a change, however, and keep any architectural accents in line with the rest of the house and the neighborhood. You don’t want Greek columns on a craftsmen-style home.
3. Assess your home’s value and the neighborhood: Improvement returns vary regionally and even from neighborhood to neighborhood. That is why it is extremely important to take the neighborhood into consideration when budgeting improvements. You want to increase the value of your home, but not make it exceed the other homes in the area. Granite countertops could be the latest thing, but not worth the investment if no one on your street has them. Being too extravagant will cost a lot and may not bring you the return you were expecting. “Don’t exceed the going rate in your neighborhood,” says Esparragoza.
There are certain renovations that may seem like they’d be a goldmine, but in fact, can reduce a home’s value. Even in a good real estate market, not all projects have widespread appeal.
• In some areas of the country where the weather is continually warm, swimming pools are a wise investment, especially if they fit in with the neighborhood. However, elsewhere pools can turn off buyers, particularly those who are concerned with the insurance and upkeep of a pool. Parents of young children may see a pool as an unwanted hazard and walk away from a sale.
• When done right, the addition of a family room or extra bedroom could be profitable, but if it looks awkward from the outside of the home and doesn’t fit in with the home’s style, it could affect a sale.
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Keep Your Dog Healthy
You love your dog, and your want her to be healthy and happy. Help keep your dog on the path to wellness with these dog health guidelines. Expert Veterinary Care
High-quality veterinary care sets the foundation for your dog’s overall health. Find a veterinarian you can trust and visit regularly. Ideally, routine wellness examinations should be performed by your vet twice a year. Puppies and senior dogs should be seen even more frequently. If your dog has special needs, a chronic health condition or other illness, comply with your vet’s recommendations. Because your dog ages at a faster rate than you, many subtle changes can develop over a six to twelve month period. Routine visits allow your vet to closely monitor changes before your dog’s health gets out of control. Learn how to effectively communicate with your vet and you can expect the same in return. If you can develop a good connection with your vet, it can lead to long-term benefit for you and your dog.
Optimum Nutrition
Proper nutrition is a fundamental for a healthy dog. Diet directly affects your dog’s skin and coat, weight, energy level, and gastrointestinal function. If a problem occurs in one of these areas, it may be linked to improper diet. Choose a high-quality dog food made by a reputable company, or learn about homemade diets. Once you find the right food for your dog, use that food consistently. Watch your dog’s response to the diet over 4-8 weeks. How does her coat look? It should be shiny and free of flakes, but not greasy. Have you noticed a change in her energy level? A decrease in energy could indicate a problem. Has she lost or gained weight? Obesity in dogs is a very common problem which can often be reversed with proper diet and exercise. Excess weight loss may occur if your dog does not find the food palatable. If her response to the diet is poor, it may be time to look into other foods. A sudden change in dog foods can cause gastrointestinal upset, so switch over gradually unless otherwise directed by your vet.
Routine Exercise
Many dog owners underestimate their dogs’ exercise needs. Destructive behavior may lead to a diagnosis of separation anxiety or other behavioral problems. While these conditions truly exist, in many cases the behavior is actually the result of an energy surplus. If you feed your dog a healthy diet, it should give her plenty of energy. However, if your dog can’t release that energy with exercise, it may be released on your furniture, carpet, doorways, or even your prized collection of rare books. Before you blame your dog for the damage, ask yourself if she’s getting enough exercise. In general, dogs need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day, but this varies by breed, size and age. Over time, determine the ideal exercise regimen for your dog and establish a routine. You might even notice an improvement in your own health in the meantime.
Regular Grooming
Grooming is not just for “fancy” dogs. All dogs need some degree of basic physical upkeep. In general, your dog’s grooming needs will be based on her breed. However, your dog may have special needs due to health conditions such as allergies. The average short-haired dog will benefit from a monthly nail trim, bath and brushing. Longhaired dogs should be brushed out daily. Dogs with continuously growing hair may need a haircut every week or two. Once you determine your dog’s grooming needs, decide if you will be doing it yourself, or if you need to hire a professional. Either way, schedule grooming sessions for your dog on a regular basis.
Watch for Warning Signs
Because our dogs cannot speak in words, we must rely on the signs they give us. Your dog may exhibit a variety of signs that indicate a health problem. Just like you, your dog can develop a mild illness that resolves on its own, so not all signs are cause for alarm. However, many dogs will instinctively try to conceal signs of serious illness. Learn what to watch for and how to act appropriately before the illness becomes out of control. If your dog is displaying signs of illness, contact your vet right away.
Ten Tips for Preventing Pet Behavior Problems
1. Set rules immediately and be consistent. 2. Avoid situations that promote inappropriate behavior. 3. Observe the pet and provide what it needs (food, care, attention and entertainment). 4. Supervise the new pet diligently through undivided individual attention and training, and restrict the pet's access to a limited area of the house until training is completed. 5. Set them up to succeed! Encourage good behavior with praise and attention. 6
DECEMBER • 2008
Correct bad behaviors by providing positive alternatives (A toy for a slipper, scratching post for the sofa).
7. Never physically punish or force compliance to commands. This may lead to fear biting or aggression. 8. Don't play rough or encourage aggression or play biting. 9. Expose pets to lots of people, animals, and environments where you want them to live. 10. See your veterinarian if serious or unresolved behavior problems exist.
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