Fall 2011 volume 1 issue 1
One Woman’s Triumph Over Infertility
Type 2 Diabetes 101 How to Eat Healthy at Restaurants Can Pomegranate Make You Look Younger?
Award-winning songwriter & vocalist
Kristine Mills Why she chooses to be gluten-free
.com | Fall 2011
The stem cells from my granddaughter’s tooth could
Save My Life.
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CONTENTS Fall 2011
10 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 GET ACTIVE CALENDAR 08 CAUSES FOR HEALTH 10 my journey to motherhood Failed fertility treatments, her mother’s bout with cancer and a lost child never stopped her from keeping faith and fulfilling her dream of acheiving motherhood.
20
16
26 16 ON the cover: KRISTINE MILLS The Houston songstress talks about how she maintains a gluten-free lifestyle and shares an original recipe.
20 TYPE II DIABETES: FROM CONTROL TO SYMPTOMS Learn the basics of this common disease.
24 SIX EASY TIPS TO EAT HEALTHY AT RESTAURANTS Eating out is necessary, but the extra pounds are not. Remember these helpful tips to keep yourself in check.
26 POMEGRANATE FOR SKIN: CAN IT MAKE YOU LOOK YOUNGER? Get the answers on page 26.
22 DID you know? Helpful tips to improve your health and community.
30 Health crossword
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Dear Readers, LISA BENJAMINI-Allon Publisher & Editor-in-Chief JILIAN RYAN Graphic Designer AL Torres Contributing Photographer Natalie Witte Writer Damyanti Ghosh Writer ADDITIONAL PHOTOS istockphoto.com HEALTH CROSSINGS 10901 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77079 713-461-9355 713-467-9499 Fax info@healthcrossings.com www.healthcrossings.com Health Crossings is a free, quarterly published magazine that discovers the importance of the combination of traditional and complementary medicine with an emphasis on wellness. Health Crossings is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Health Crossings Magazine reserves the rights to images and articles submitted to the magazine. Advertisers assume all liability for advertising and photo content. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in part or in whole without written consent from the publisher. The content of this publication is for educational and informational purposes only. Statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration.
Many of you will agree that there is an abundance of information on the topic of Health. There is information about medical, mental, and physical heath, emotional wellbeing for yourself, aging parents, your children, your pets, and so on. Everyone deserves to be informed, but how do you know what information is best for you? And why is there so much information about some topics and yet so little information on others? Much of the information presented to us can be divided into two categories: wellness, or alternative medicine, and traditional medicine. Unfortunately, these two practices have positioned themselves against one another and perpetuate our confusion by convincing us “we” are right and “they” are wrong. So who do you believe? Who says you have to pick one side? As a healthcare professional, I witnessed this confusion in patients. As a woman and mother, I have felt this confusion. It was when I became passionate about my personal health and wellness that I found a balance between traditional and alternative medicine. I adopted several lifestyle changes that totally transformed my self-image and outlook on life, which ultimately led to the creation of this magazine. It is my pleasure to present to you the first issue of Health Crossings, a quarterly magazine dedicated to marrying the medical and wellness aspects of health into one harmonious resource for the greater Houston community. This and upcoming issues will present relevant, interesting stories about healthy living, other people’s journeys towards achieving happiness and simple ways to improve your health using both traditional and alternative medicine. You deserve to make informed choices about your health, and my hope is that this magazine will help you through that crossing.
LISA BENJAMINI-Allon Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
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Making a stand for the health of millions of women and adolescent girls.
Free Support Groups Every third Wednesday, 6:30 pm at the Allon Health Center
Donate as a Gift
Give in honor or memory of a loved one. A tax-deductible donation to the PCOS Foundation is a meaningful gift for special occasions: weddings • birthdays • anniversaries thank you • mother’s day • holidays congratulations • any occasion
About PCOS
About PCOS Foundation
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 10% of women (an estimated 7 million in the U.S.) PCOS also affects 11-26% of adolescent girls. Less than 50% are diagnosed. Most women diagnosed lack the education and resources to manage their symptoms and prevent long term health risks.
Committed to Making a Stand. The PCOS Foundation was established in July 2010 and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization dedicated to serving the needs of women and adolescents living with PCOS. Its mission is to spread awareness though public and professional education programs in order to improve diagnosis and decrease or eliminate the lifetime risks associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Through these efforts the organization hopes to establish grant programs that will help women affected with PCOS obtain treatment through medical lifestyle management programs.
Some symptoms of PCOS include: • Inability to lose or gain weight • Insulin resistance • Enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts • Pelvic pain • Excess facial and/or body hair • Irregular menstrual cycles • Infertility • Thinning hair • Acne • Fatigue Some risk factors of PCOS include: • Diabetes • Cancer • Heart disease • Stroke
We currently provide the following: • Support/Education Groups • Exercise Groups • PCOS Awareness 5K Fun Run/Walk • PCOS Symposium • Education Outreach Program in businesses • Medical Community Outreach Program • Infertility Outreach Program
Helping the PCOS Foundation gives women a chance to live happier, healthier lives. The PCOS Foundation’s outreach program helps lead women to early diagnosis and gives them the much needed education to prevent long-term health risks.
Learn how to get involved at www.pcosfoundation.org or call 713-487-PCOS (7267)
GET Active Calendar Fall 2011
25
04
September
October
24 Bike to build Houston habitat Sep 24 - 8:30 am Discovery Green houstonhabitat.org 24 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Sep 24 - 9:30 am Vintage Park Plaza alz.org/texas 25 AiM for a Cure Melanoma Walk Sep 25 - 8:00 am M D Anderson aimatmelanoma.org 25 PCOS Awareness 5K Fun Run & Walk Sep 25 - 8:00 am Downtown Aquarium pcosfoundation.org x3 Brian O’Neill’s Run Group Sep 13, 20, 27 & every Tuesday 6:00 pm Brian O’Neills FREE bonrunningclub.com
01
01
Buffalo Stampede, Half Marathon, 5K Oct 1 - 7:30 am Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, Bryan brazosvalleymuseum.org SUSAN G KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE Oct 1 - 8:00 am Sam Houston Park ww5.komen.org
02 Du the Bear 2MRun/12MBike/2MRun Oct 2 - 7:00 am Bear Creek Park out-loud.org/duthebear.htm 03 Medical Center Boot Camp Oct 3 - 6:00 am Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center 05 Yoga at Your Desk Oct 5 -12:00 pm FREE University of St Thomas 09 USA 10 Miler Oct 9 - 7:00 am University of Houston Clear Lake ontheruntx.com/10m.htm
If you have an event you would like featured in our Get Active Calendar, please e-mail event information and photos to: info@healthcrossings.com
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15
15
Miles for Mainland Oct 15 - 7:30 am Bay Street Park uwgcm.org/?page_id=1905 Monster Dash 5K Oct 15 - 8:00 am Friendswood High School
23 18
Health Expo Oct 18 - 3:00 pm FREE University of Houston uh.edu/calendar
22 Run For Your Life Oct 22 - 8:00 am The Health Museum mhms.org 23 Houston Half Marathon & Relay Oct 23 - 7:00 am Sam Houston Park houstonhalf.com 29 Monster Mash 5k/10k/15k Fun Run & Candy Corn Kids K Sam Houston Race Park Oct 29 - 7:30 am onurleft.com 29 D’Feet Breast Cancer Oct 29 - 6:00 am Moody Gardens & Schlitterbahn Water Park dfeetbreastcancer.com 29 Rock the Mind 5K Run/2 mile Walk Oct 29 - 8:30 am Wolf Pen Creek Plaza, College Station x4 Brian O’Neill’s Run Group Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 & every Tuesday 6:00 pm Brian O’Neills FREE bonrunningclub.com
Get active! Train, walk or meet with friends at these local parks: Stude Park 1031 Stude St Houston, TX 77007 Neighborhood: The Heights
19
November
05 Run in the Park November 5 - 8:00 AM Hermann Park hermannpark.org 16 Yoga at Your Desk Nov 16 - 12:00 pm FREE University of St Thomas 18 Nature Discovery Center 17th Annual Twilight Gala Nov 18 Downtown Aquarium naturediscoverycenter.org 19 step out walk to stop Diabetes Nov 19 - 8:30 am Minute Maid Park stepout.diabetes.org 19 Indoor Marathon & Half Nov 19-20 Reliant Stadium indoormarathonsofamerica.com 24 Bay Area Turkey Day 5K, 10K and Kids K Nov 24 - 7:00 am On the Run, University Plaza bayareafit.com/bayareaturkeyday10k x5 Brian O’Neill’s Run Group Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & every Tuesday 6:00 pm Brian O’Neills FREE bonrunningclub.com
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December
Memorial Park 6501 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77007 Neighborhood: River Oaks Hermann Park 1500 Hermann Dr Houston, TX 77004 Neighborhood: Museum District
03 Ronald McDonald House Trafigura Home Run 2011 Dec 3 - 8:00 am Sam Houston Park rmhhouston.org
Sam Houston Park The Heritage Society 1100 Bagby St Houston, TX 77002 Neighborhoods: Downtown
03 Reindeer Run Dec 3 - 8:00 am Scanlan Oaks Elementary soepto.org/Reindeer-Run.html
Rice University 6100 Main St Houston, TX 77030 Neighborhood: West University
10 Holiday Farmer’s Market Bike Tour Dec 10 - 8:00 am Onion Creek bayoucityoutdoors.com
Terry Hershey Park 15200 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77079 Neighborhood: Energy Corridor
11
Jingle Bell Run and Walk Dec 11 - 12:00 pm ymcahouston.org/jingle-bell-run
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Sugar Land Finish Line Sports 30K Dec 11 - 6:30 am Sugar Land Town Square slfinishlinesports.com
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Run Girl 13.1 Dec 11 - 8:00 am Alexander Deussen Park trigirlsports.com
x4 Brian O’Neill’s Run Group Dec 6, 13, 20, 27 & every Tuesday 6:00 pm Brian O’Neills FREE bonrunningclub.com
Buffalo Bayou Park 18-3600 Allen Pkwy & Memorial Houston, TX 77246 Neighborhood: Fourth Ward Bear Creek 3535 War Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77084 Neighborhood: Addicks/Park Ten Mercer Arboretum 22306 Aldine Westfield Rd Humble, TX 77338 Karl Young Park 7800 Stella Link Rd Houston, TX 77025 Neighborhood: Braeswood Place Community Park 1700 Glenn Lakes Ln Missouri City, TX 77459 Hunters Glen Jogging Trail 1522 Texas Pkwy Missouri City, TX 77489 Oyster Creek Park 4033 State Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX 77479
causes for health Fall 2011
bike to build Houston habitat
AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION diabetes.org
We lead the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fight for those affected by diabetes. Tour de Cure - American Diabetes Association Sep 24 Champion Nissan
Cook-Off for Kids
19th Annual CanCare Golf Classic Oct 3 - 11:00 am Lakeside Country Club
Child Advocates childadvocates.org
Houston’s voice for abused children. Cook-Off for Kids
step out walk to stop Diabetes Nov 19 - 8:30 am Minute Maid Park
Oct 22 Hughes Hangar
Easter Seals Greater Houston eastersealshouston.org
Breast Cancer Foundation - Houston komen-houston.org
Provides services to individuals with disabilities.
The mission of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cures.
Houston 3rd Annual BASH
SUSAN G KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE
houstonchildrenscharity.org
Oct 1 - 8:00 am Sam Houston Park
CANCARE cancare.org
Providing emotional support to others facing cancer.
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Oct 29 - 8:00 pm The Corinthian
Houston Children’s Charity
Canstruction Houston
HOUSTON FOOD BANK houstonfoodbank.org
The nation’s largest size food bank in the Feeding America network and source of food for hunger relief charities in 18 southeast Texas counties. Canstruction Houston 2011 15th Annual Design/ Build Competition Nov 19 City Centre
Houston habitat for Humanity houstonhabitat.org
Houston Habitat for Humanity works by faith to change lives and empower families by building homes in partnership with God and people from all walks of life. Bike to build Houston habitat Sep 24 - 8:30 am Discovery Green
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for Greater Houston’s underprivileged, abused and disabled children who have been otherwise left behind.
Junior League of Bryan-College Station
Houston Children’s Charity 15th Annual Gala
Women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving our community.
Nov 5 - 6:30 pm The Hyatt Regency’s Imperial Ballroom
jlbcs.org
health observances
September Childhood Cancer Awareness Fruit and Veggies - More Matters Leukemia & Lymphoma Awareness National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery
Razzle Dazzle ‘em Pink
PCOS Awareness 5K
National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness National Cholesterol Education National ITP Awareness
2011 Junior League Charity Ball Nov 12 - 6:30 pm The Hilton, College Station
Lupus Foundation of America lupus.org
Dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus and providing support and services to all people affected by lupus. “Magic of Morocco” Lupus Gala Nov 12 - 6:30 pm Bell Tower on 34th
Memorial Hermann Foundation memorialhermann.org/foundation
Exists to advance the mission of Memorial Hermann by promoting its programs, facilities, physicians, research and projects in the community with the goal of attaining philanthropic support.
In the Pink of Health Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon
National Head Lice Prevention
Oct 14 - 10 am Memorial Hermann The Woodlands
National Yoga Awareness
National Sickle Cell
Newborn Screening Awareness
2nd Annual Luncheon “Razzle Dazzle ‘em Pink”
Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Oct 21 - 11:30 am Memorial Hermann Memorial City
PCOS Awareness Prostate Cancer Awareness
PCOS FOUNDATION
Whole Grains
pcosfoundation.org
Spreading awareness and education about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to women and adolescent girls with the goal of preventing future health risks. PCOS Support Group Oct 19 - 6:30 pm FREE Allon Health Center 3rd Wednesday of every month
October Eye Injury Prevention National Breast Cancer Awareness National Down Syndrome Awareness Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness
November The Salvation Army Greater Houston salvationarmyhouston.org
EMBRACE Cancer Support Group Sep 14 - 1:00 pm FREE
Serving Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties through various programs and services intended to meet human needs without discrimination.
Memorial Hermann Northwest 2nd Wednesday of every month
2011 Annual Luncheon Nov 15 River Oaks Country Club
American Diabetes COPD Awareness Diabetic Eye Disease Lung Cancer Awareness National Healthy Skin National Stomach Cancer Awareness Prematurity Awareness
December Safe Toys and Gifts Month .com | Fall 2011 | 9
World AIDS Day (Dec. 1)
My Journey to Motherhood A true story by Sharon Windham
For some women, thoughts of having children start very young, for others it’s after getting married or establishing a career. We grow up thinking we get married, buy a house, and start a family. What happens when those plans take a detour?
tell you not to focus on it too much. It will happen on its own. A year goes by and still nothing. Here is the story of my journey to motherhood. How I overcame despair, unsuccessful fertility treatments, and even tragedy.
didn’t work. After about a year of unsuccessful attempts on our own, I decided to seek some professional guidance. What if there was a medical issue preventing me from getting pregnant? I felt my biological clock ticking.
For many women who have made the decision to start a family it becomes a “mission”, if you will. You make several attempts without any thought or plan. When that doesn’t work, you start counting the days until ovulation. You try different times of day, different positions, maybe some natural supplements, acupuncture, massages, everything and anything you’ve heard that might work. Friends and family
I always knew I wanted to have children. Becoming a mother was a top priority in my life. When I got married at age 30, my husband and I started trying for a family immediately. After months of no success, frustration started to set in. I questioned whether age was a factor, although at 30 years old, I didn’t think my fertility would be affected yet. I tried different suggestions and remedies that
My husband and I went to see Dr. Michael Allon at the Advanced Fertility Center of Texas to try to help ease some of my frustration and anxiety over not getting pregnant. I was a bit nervous, but felt good in knowing we would soon identify the problem. Dr. Allon explained the process to me and I felt comfort in knowing he would do everything possible to help me. My husband and I
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were both tested and the results came back “unknown.” Unknown? What does that mean? Despair and disappointment set in again. Dr. Allon assured me that those results didn’t mean pregnancy was not a possibility and suggested starting with intrauterine insemination (IUI). Hope returned. Physically, the process was tolerable. I was more anxious than anything else. I was so thankful for modern medicine. On the day of my IUI, my husband and I remained hopeful and positive about the procedure. When it was over, I felt a sense of relief. I was enthusiastic about the possibility of being pregnant soon, but didn’t want to get my hopes up too. Sadly, our first try of IUI was unsuccessful. A second attempt at IUI was performed with the same result. I began to question myself, but Dr. Allon assured me not to lose hope. I felt comfort in his words and in the next step, in vitro-fertilization (IVF). He helped me stay optimistic. During this time, my mother was fighting breast cancer. I was determined to get pregnant not only for myself, but also for my mother. My hope was for us to share the experience of becoming a first-time mother and grandmother together. This became yet another motivator for me. Treatment for IVF was a little more intense, but staying focused continued on page 12
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on the end result made it bearable. My husband provided the calmness I needed to get through the process. I continued to try and remain optimistic. After the procedure was over, I felt happy. I couldn’t explain it. I was just happy. I said a little prayer and hoped for the best. After going in for a blood test and waiting for a couple of weeks it was time for the results. SUCCESS! I was pregnant! My husband and I were overwhelmed with joy. I thought how amazing it was that doctors could perform such a miracle. What a gift they give and what a gift they have. My pregnancy was not a comfortable one to say the least; there was a lot of nausea and swelling, but everything was moving right along. My little girl was growing perfectly. I went in for my last appointment at my doctor’s office on October 6th, where everything looked and sounded great. My doctor decided to induce me on October 12th at 39 weeks. I anxiously anticipated my baby’s arrival. A couple of days before the induction, I used the heart monitor I had at home to listen to my baby’s heartbeat as I always did in the evenings. I had difficulty finding the heartbeat, but thought nothing of it. I laid down on the couch and noticed my belly wasn’t taught anymore. The next day, my doctor happened to call to see about rescheduling the induction. I expressed my concern for the
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baby, so he had me come to his office for a quick ultrasound. After several minutes of lying there, which seemed like an eternity, my doctor put his hand on my arm and told me he was so sorry. “There is no heartbeat.” I was in complete disbelief. I couldn’t stop crying. My whole world was just turned upside down. How could this happen? Everything had been fine! I delivered my daughter, Talia Ruth, on October 12, 2006 and buried her on October 15, 2006. It was discovered that Talia died of a blood clot. The loss of our daughter weighed heavily on our hearts, but I was not ready to give up. Two months later, we returned to Dr. Allon and got his approval to try IVF again. It was a success. This time, we were blessed with two! I couldn’t believe it. Twins! I prayed to G-d to give me at least one girl. I was overjoyed to discover we had been blessed with two! I had an extremely high risk pregnancy and went into preterm labor several times. I was put on strict bed rest and was checked in to the hospital at 32 weeks. Four weeks later on September 24, 2007, I delivered two healthy girls, Ella and Sophia, my pride and joy. Although my mother lost her battle with breast cancer, she fought long enough to enjoy being a grandmother to the girls for 10 months.
I didn’t let difficulties and tragedies with starting a family take my hope away. I stayed positive and optimistic through it all because I focused on the end goal of motherhood. My advice to women struggling with infertility is to believe in your doctor’s will to help. As women and mothers, we will do whatever it takes for our children and that includes having them. Always have hope. The dream is to become a parent. How that happens doesn’t matter. I continue to mourn the loss of my beautiful Talia, however, I am comforted by the knowledge that my mother is watching over her. It was this entire experience that brought me Ella and Sophia, and for that I am forever grateful.
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I had my thyroid removed yesterday. no scar.
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*Person shown not actual patient
877-377-4ENT (toll free)
1730 Birmingham Drive College Station, TX 77845
Advertise with us Inquire about our great rates: info@healthcrossings.com
Writers! Health Nuts! Event Coordinators! Send your press releases, story submissions or event information and photos to info@healthcrossings.com
713-461-9355 or info@healthcrossings.com healthcrossings.com Find us online
Suffering with pain from Endometrosis? We have new treatments that can help you. 713-467-4488 extension 40
HC: What differences have you noticed
in the way you feel now that you don’t eat gluten? KM: My body function is better, I
gained a ton of energy, lost weight, have a stronger voice and don’t get sick as often (if ever) now that I am glutenfree. I am able to move forward with my career as I am no longer having complications with my vocals due to my diet. There is a huge correlation between food and success. If I were not eating gluten-free, I am convinced that my singing career would not be what it is now. Eating gluten-free has changed my life both physically and emotionally. I look younger, feel younger and do what I love to do– sing. HC: Transitioning to a completely gluten-
free diet can take time to get used to. Who or what helped you make this change?
KM: Although adjusting to this diet can
Kristine Mills Why she chooses to be gluten-free
As a busy mother with a successful music career, award-winning singer/songwriter Kristine Mills realized she needed to create a balance between her eating habits and her chaotic schedule before it ruined her career and her health. With the help of her gluten-free diet and exercise regimen, she has significantly reduced her symptoms and feels happier and healthier than ever. Health Crossings: What made
you decide to go gluten-free?
Kristine Mills: I was told for
years from several doctors that I should eliminate wheat from my diet and that I was suffering from a thyroid problem. I was also diagnosed with PCOS, an endocrine disorder. I still wasn’t feeling a whole lot of relief from my constant
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weight issues, fatigue, acid reflux, and mucus (which in turn affected my singing capability) even after I stopped eating wheat. I would eat rice and be sick for days, lose my voice, and experience stomach pain. I was frustrated and tired of living in constant discomfort. I made a conscious decision to go gluten-free about six years ago and it has truly changed my life for the better.
be difficult, the outcome is worth it. Feeling healthy and energized everyday makes continuing a gluten-free diet worth it. Relying on your friends and family is not what allows you to stick to a gluten-free diet; it is solely yourself that has to commit. This is a choice, a hardcore choice. HC: What would you tell someone who
is considering a gluten-free diet but is worried about giving up foods they love? KM: The change is a challenge, but I
allowed my gluten-free diet to be a way for me to be creative in the kitchen. I eat a lot of eggs, chicken, tons of fish, vegetables, potatoes, bean soups, cottage cheese, fruits and salads (I love the salad bar at Whole Foods!). I suggest shopping online at www.penzeys.com for all of your readymade spices. One of my favorite creations is Tilapia with Herbed Tomato Sauce over Sautéed Escarole, which is gluten, grain, soy
and dairy free. I also think that it is okay to allow yourself to splurge on your favorite meal one night a month. Make it your date night or lunch with the girls, but not to completely deprive yourself of the things you enjoy to eat in life.
Original Recipe Tilapia with Herbed Tomato Sauce over Sauted Escarole Gluten, grain, soy and dairy free recipe by Kristine. Cooking and prep time: less than 30 min. Serves: 4 people
HC: What was your favorite gluten-
containing food? Have you found a gluten-free substitute for this food now? KM: My weakness is pasta. I found
pasta that is corn based rather that rice based that I enjoy with a small portion of a homemade marinara sauce and I get my pasta fix. HC: Many people are changing to gluten-
free diets lately, even if they do not have a known gluten intolerance. What are your thoughts on this? KM: I highly recommend everyone go
gluten-free. One can only benefit from this diet whether they are gluten intolerant or not. Since I have been eating glutenfree, exercising 5-6 days a week, and by working closely with my doctor, I not only feel amazing, but I have prevented most of my PCOS symptoms. The drastic decrease in my carbohydrate intake also helps me deal with the insulin resistance component of PCOS.
Escarole:
2 heads of escarole coarsely chopped 4 cloves of garlic thinly sliced 2 pinches of sea salt to taste 2 tbsp olive oil to lightly coat the pan
instructions:
In the same pan used to make the escarole, heat some more olive oil in the pan. When warmed, add the diced onions and sauté until softened and just starting to turn gold. Heat the olive oil in the pan. When Add the herbs and shallots and sauté warmed, add the sliced garlic and sauté till soft. until softened and just starting to turn Add the tilapia filets into the onion and gold. Then add the chopped escarole herb mixture and heat about 2 minutes and sauté until soft. Remove from pan each side. and keep warm. Add the can of whole organic tomatoes and the salt. Cover and cook about 5 more minutes Tilapia with Tomato Sauce: until the tomato sauce bubbles. 2 tbsp olive oil to lightly coat the pan Serve over the sautéed escarole ½ sweet onion diced and enjoy! 1 tbsp each of dried herbs: oregano, basil and parsley with dried shallots This dish can be used with any kind (www.penzeys.com) of white, flaky fish or chicken. Adjust 4 tilapia filets cut in half cooking times accordingly. 1 can organic whole tomatoes 2 pinches of sea salt to taste
Three categories of Gluten Intolerance Celiac Disease occurs when
the proteins in gluten (glutenin and gliadin) trigger your immune system to overreact with strong and unusual antibodies. This sets off a dominoeffect of increasingly serious health problems.
Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity is currently a little
more difficult to pinpoint. Basically, individuals who suffer from NCGS suffer very similarly to people with Celiac Disease, but the blood test which identifies and diagnoses celiac disease returns as negative. Kristine’s case is non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Gluten allergy is a
histamine response to wheat, much like a peanut allergy or hay fever. Wheat allergies manifest themselves in a wide variety of manners which can be different for different people. Some people experience hives while others might experience stomach pain.
For more information about gluten intolerance, visit www.gluten.net
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Type II Diabetes From Symptoms to Control
Type II Diabetes is one of two forms of the condition in which either the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, red blood cells block insulin from being absorbed inside them, or both. Type II Diabetes, also known as Adult Onset Diabetes, affects 90% - 95% of the population that have been diagnosed with some form of diabetes. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to store sugars for fuel thus when either the pancreas is in a state of low production or the blood cells are blocking the absorption of insulin, a build-up of sugar remains in the blood stream. Over time this excess sugar can cause more serious health concerns such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Symptoms of Type II Diabetes
The symptoms of Type II Diabetes are excessive thirst, excessive hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, and dizziness. Some people’s symptoms begin with a general malaise or simply not feeling well. There are several factors that can predispose a person to Type II Diabetes; a diabetes diagnosis of a grandparent, parent, or sibling; a history of gestational diabetes; or being overweight. Getting Tested
The first test that your physician may perform is a simple finger stick blood test to check your blood sugar. If your physician suspects that you may be diabetic, the next test performed is usually the Hemoglobin A1C test. It is also performed as a finger stick and the results will give your physician an average of the sugar concentration over the past 2-3 months. A normal Hemoglobin A1C is below 6.0. Anything over 6.0 tells your physician that you have diabetes. Controlling Type II Diabetes
The good news of a Type II Diabetes diagnosis is that it is controllable through diet, exercise, medication, or a combination of these. After a diagnosis, it is generally a good idea to see a dietician who will help you to change your diet and gain control over your blood sugar. The most important factor is blood sugar control through diet is to watch your intake of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the component of foods that create energy or fuel for your body. Carbohydrates occur in the form of either sugars or fiber. An increase in fiber and a lowering of sugar intake will help to get your blood sugar to a more normal level. In some cases, medication such as insulin replacement along with the dietary changes are necessary to gain control of your blood sugar levels. Along with dietary changes, an increase in the amount of exercise you perform is essential. Exercise helps the body to both produce more insulin as well as store the excess sugars in muscle tissue. As little as 15 minutes of exercise per day can make a dramatic difference in your blood sugar levels. Walking, biking, and low impact aerobics are all wonderful exercises that will increase the body’s ability to store sugars properly. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or have a predisposition to diabetes, call your physician to schedule a blood sugar test.
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As little as 15 minutes of exercise per day can make a dramatic difference in your blood sugar levels.
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Did you know...
...Over 111,000 people are waiting for a lifesaving transplant nationally?
Every day 18 people die waiting for a lifesaving transplant. One organ donor has the potential to save as many as eight lives; an organ and tissue donor has the potential to save as many as 80. While the Glenda P. Dawson Donate Life Texas Registry is gaining momentum and numbers have improved dramatically, less than 10 percent of Texans over the age of 18 are registered. Registering to become an organ, eye and tissue donor is simple. It’s free and it takes less than five minutes. There are three ways to register: 1. Online at www.donatelifetexas.org. 2. In person at the Department of Public Safety Office (DPS). 3. Online with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when renewing vehicle registration. For more information about LifeGift and the registry, visit www.lifegift.org.
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...Food allergies are on the rise? A recent study found
that as many as one in thirteen children under the age of 18 have at least one food allergy. And for almost 40%, the reaction can be severe or life threatening. Anyone can be allergic to any food, but eight foods account for 90% of all food related reactions – milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, wheat and soy. Importantly even a trace amount of an allergen can trigger a reaction. There is no cure for a food allergy so education and awareness are key. To learn more about food allergies, visit www.foodallergy.org.
...HIIT burns more fat in less time than steady state cardio? What’s HIIT
you ask? High Intensity Interval Training. Research shows that doing HIIT opposed to steady state cardio burns more fat in less time. This method will shorten overall workout time, increase intensity, and boost metabolic rate. If you’re new to HIIT, start with a 1:2 ratio of work into recovery, sprinting 15 seconds and walking 30 seconds. As you grow stronger, increase your ratio from 1:2 ratio to a 1:1 ratio. This tip was provided by Shannon Thibodeaux CPT, SC of JAbfitness. Contact Shannon at s.devonthibodeaux@gmail.com or 832-613-1031.
Learn how to get included in our “Did you know...” section by emailing us at: info@healthcrossings.com
...There’s a scale that measures the nutrient density of food? It’s called the “Aggregate Nutrient Density Index.” This index
measures how rich foods are in micronutrients when compared to their total caloric content. Micronutrients include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals. The Aggregate Nutrient Density Index was developed and patented by Eat Right America. Eat Right America’s ANDI Scores Kale
1000
Kidney Beans
100
Walnuts
34
Collards
1000
Sweet Potato
83
Grapes
31
Bok Choy
824
Sunflower Seeds
78
White Potato
31
Spinach
739
Apple
76
Banana
30
Brussel Sprouts
672
Peach
73
Chicken Breast
27
Arugula
559
Green Peas
70
Eggs
26
Cabbage
481
Cherries
68
Peanut Butter
25
Romaine
389
Flax Seeds
65
Whole Wheat Bread
21
Broccoli
376
Sesame Seeds
65
Feta Cheese
20
Cauliflower
295
Pineapple
64
Whole Milk
20
Green Pepper
258
Oatmeal
53
Ground Beef
20
Artichoke
244
Mango
51
White Pasta
18
Carrots
240
Cucumber
50
White Bread
18
Asparagus
234
Pistachios
48
Apple Juice
16
Strawberry
212
Soybeans
48
Swiss Cheese
15
Pom. Juice
193
Corn
44
Low Fat Yogurt
14
Tomato
164
Salmon
39
Potato Chips
11
Blueberries
130
Almonds
38
American Cheese
10
Iceberg
110
Shrimp
38
Vanilla Ice Cream
9
Orange
109
Tofu
37
Olive Oil
9
Lentils
104
Avocado
37
French Fries
7
Cantaloupe
100
Skim Milk
36
Cola
0.6
Whole Foods provides a more extensive ANDI scoring system in their stores and on their web site at: www.wholefoodsmarket.com/healthstartshere/andi.php
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Six Easy Tips to Eat Healthy at Restaurants - Damyanti Ghosh
Eating healthy or losing weight does not have to mean perpetually eating home-cooked food and sacrificing all social life. You can dine out with friends or colleagues at restaurants and still maintain a guilt-free diet plan. All you need is a sense of moderation and a strategy to implement it. Here are a few tips that would help â–ş
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Drink a glass of water and eat a fruit like banana, avocado, or apple before you set off for the meal. This will ensure you’re not ravenous when you begin to order and can dwell on healthy choices instead of the greasy stuff.
If you’re a meat lover, by all means go for that steak once in a while. But remember to stick to lean white meat like fish, chicken, and turkey. These are good for your heart and your general well-being. Instead of fried meats, choose grilled recipes flavored with herbs and spices rather than fat.
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When ordering sides, check if fries or mashed potatoes can be replaced by simple salad. This keeps the calorie count down and adds important vitamins that are essential for good health.
Avoid salads with rich, creamy dressing. Go for vinaigrette or other varieties containing the heart-healthy olive oil. Ask for your salad without processed cheese and fried bacon because these add calories without nutrition.
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When ordering drinks, remember that wines work well with meals when drunk in moderation. Check the sugar in non-alcoholic beverages before ordering them. Bottled fruit juices have undesirably high sugar content. Order freshsqueezed ones if available. For drinks like lemonade, ask for the sugar syrup on the side and use according to taste. Plain water is the healthiest drink you can order and it also lets you enjoy your food to the maximum.
Last, but not the least, check portion sizes. If the food looks more than what you normally eat for a meal at home, get some of it packed right away. Indulge your pets if it is suitable for them or eat as ‘leftovers’ lunch the next day. Just because the portion size is large does not mean you have to finish it at one sitting.
If you follow these tips, there is no reason for you not to enjoy all kinds of food at restaurants. The key is a degree of restraint. Once you master it, it would help you maintain a healthy diet despite eating out often.
Pomegranate for Skin:
Can It Make You Look Younger? The popularity of the pomegranate fruit is growing rapidly as more people discover its unique health benefits. Pomegranates are a good source of polyphenols and other compounds that reduce inflammation and destroy free radicals. Preliminary studies show that the unique compounds in pomegranate fruit lower the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Sure, pomegranates are good for your “insides”, but special compounds found in this fruit could help you look more beautiful on the outside too - by reducing skin wrinkling and sun damage. What are the benefits of pomegranate for skin health and aging? A compound in pomegranate may help reduce the breakdown of collagen, the protein that gives skin its useful vitality - and prevents wrinkling and sagging. Korean researchers isolated a component, called ellagic acid, from the pomegranate fruit and applied it to the skin of hairless mice. When they exposed the mice to a dose of UVB radiation, which would
cause sun damage, the mice didn’t experience the characteristic skin thickening that would normally occur. Not only that, but they didn’t have an increase in inflammatory cells that are a marker of skin damage and collagen breakdown. The ellagic acid from the pomegranate fruit seemed to protect the skin of these mice from the type of sun damage that could lead to premature aging and skin wrinkling. Pomegranate Benefits for Human Skin Cells
When researchers applied ellagic acid in pomegranate directly to human skin cells and exposed them to UVB radiation, the collagen-producing cells, called fibroblasts, didn’t undergo the expected breakdown in collagen. At least in the laboratory, pomegranate has benefits for human skin cells as well. Could the ellagic acid in pomegranate be the key to naturally preventing wrinkles and sagging skin?
Pomegranate Benefits for Skin: The Bottom Line
Because of findings like this, more companies are adding pomegranate to their skin care products. Unfortunately, most contain only small amounts of the active compounds - probably not enough to have real benefits. A better option is to buy pomegranate extract from a company like skinactives.com and add it to your favorite skin cream. This way you can get higher concentrations of ellagic acid and other health polyphenols that protect skin cells from the aging effects of the sun. One word of warning. Only use pomegranate extract in conjunction with your regular sun protection. Pomegranate extract is not a substitute for sunscreen, but it may offer some additional protection against skin aging that a sunscreen can’t provide.
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Check if your fertility clinic has an ACE certified Reproductive Embryologist on staff: www.embcol.org
The American College of Embryology (ACE) is an organization of reproductive embryology practitioners. Reproductive embryology practitioners create human embryos and provide care for them before embryos are transplanted into women during In Vitro Fertilization treatment. ACE’s mission is to assure that the knowledge and skills of every embryology practitioner in the United States meet a minimum standard demonstrated by passing a theoretical and practical exam in embryology.
Business Accounting and Consulting Over 20 years of experience serving Houston businesses:
Scott Irvine, CPA
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Call for a Free Consultation: (855) 587-4450
crossword 1
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2. to crouch down 6. lack of water 7. filamentous fungi 8. brown or white 9. Described as the subtle energy force that flows through the body in Chinese culture 11. person trained to compete in sports 12. rate of movement 16. incentive 17. form a curve 18. of or relating to the heart DOWN
1. practice of preparing food 3. largest park in Houston 4. technical term for teeth grinding 5. the power to withstand hardship or stress 10. Food that does not contain additives, pesticides and has not been genetically modified 13. Latin-inspired dance-fitness program 14. progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe 15. pungent, spicy plant used to suppress nausea
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713-461-9355 or info@healthcrossings.com healthcrossings.com Find us online
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Call 713-467-4488 ext. 60 www.infertilityanswers.com
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