August Bloomington Healthy Cells 2012

BLOOMINGTON/NORMAL

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Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional • Nutritional

August 2012

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Probiotics: A Gut Feeling pg. 10 Energy Drinks: Not Kid Stuff pg. 29 What Are E-Cigs? pg. 42

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Advanced Women’s Healthcare A d v a n c e d W o m e n ’s H e a l t h c a r e , t h e n e w independent practice of Dr. Dele Ogunleye, is opening this fall.

Dr. Ogunleye is well known from his time with the Carle Clinic and Advocate Medical Group, and can be expected to provide a continuation of his caring and direct relationship with every patient.

The practice will provide a full range of obstetric and gynecologic services including: • Low Risk and High Risk Obstetrics • In-office Treatment for Heavy Periods, and Endometriosis • Minimally Invasive Surgery as well as other types of Gynecological Surgery Dr. Ogunleye has a special interest in the subspecialty of Urogynecology – the surgical and non-surgical treatment of women with pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence and pelvic floor organ prolapse; and will be offering the services of this specialty with Gretchen Dean, a highly regarded Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist.

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

AUGUST 6 8 10 12 14 15 16 18 19 24 26 28 29 30 32 34 35 36 38 40 42 44 46 47 48 49

Physical: Neurologists as Electricians Emotional: Spirituality and Cancer Nutritional: The Health Benefits of Probiotics

This Month’s Cover Story:

2012 Volume 7, Issue 8

Obstetrics and Gynecology Care Associates, S.C. Empowering Women for Life page 20

Planter Fasciitis: Feet Don't Fail Me Now! Fall Allergies: Ragweed Pollen Coming Soon to a Place Near You! Elder Care: Care for the Caregiver Home Safety: Prepare Your Home Before You Travel Healthy Pets: Is Your Pet Ready for Warm Weather Fun? Healthy Skin: Green Tea and Younger Looking Skin Oral Health: Flossing–Is it Worth the Trouble?

Child Development: What is Cerebral Palsy?

Metastatic Breast Cancer: New Targeted Therapies for Treatment Sports and Energy Drinks: Not Kids' Stuff The Right Dose: What to Look for When Choosing a Compounding Pharmacy Curing Breast Cancer: Run For Life Balance Disorders: The Four Flavors of Dizzy Mental Health: Treating Bipolar Disorder

For information about this publication, contact Cheryl Eash, owner, at 309-664-2524, ceash7@gmail.com Healthy Cells Magazine and Pastelle Magazine are both a division of:

Understanding Heat Stroke: How Hot is Too Hot? Prostate Cancer: "That Surgery Can Make a Guy Impotent!"

1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com www.healthycellsmagazine.com and www.pastellemagazine.com

Exercise: Switch On Your Skinny, Healthy Genes Kick The Habit: What Are E-Cigs?

When They Come Home: Helping Military Families Prepare for Reunions Healthy Babies: The Amazing Journey to Table Foods, Part 3 Body Image: Disordered Eating and Children at Risk Healthy Feet: Bunions, Bumps, and Hammertoes Your Last Diet: More Than Counting Calories

Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the greater Bloomington-Normal area.

Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE at over 450 locations, including major grocery stores throughout the Bloomington-Normal area as well as hospitals, physicians’ offices, pharmacies, and health clubs. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the Bloomington-Normal area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return.

“I wish to thank all of the advertisers who make this magazine possible. They believe enough in providing positive health information to the public that they are willing to pay for it so you won’t have to.”

Cheryl Eash

Since we opened our new Birthing Center last year, mothers across McLean County have discovered, here at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, we’re truly delivering joy. Whether it’s the great care every family receives while they’re here with us, or the care that continues even after they go home, we’re not just delivering babies; we’re delivering the kind of care that builds relationships for a lifetime.

MAKE YOUR DELIVERY TRULY SPECIAL. Get the kind of care that will make the difference for you and your baby at the Birthing Center at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center.

To learn more about our Birthing Center, please visit us at www.osfstjoseph.org/birth or call (309) 665-4704.

August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

physical

Neurologists as Electricians

By Edward W. Pegg, MD, LLC

W

e had an electrician in to take care of an electrical problem. I watched as he ran the wiring in the basement and up in the attic. He was able to check the wiring inside the walls that he couldn’t see by doing a continuity test, which is simply putting a charge in one wire near the fuse box then running around the house to find which wire is hot and carrying the charge.

I could not help but realize that, when we study a patient's peripheral nervous system, we are essentially an electrician checking out the patient's wiring.

Peripheral nerves carry information to and from the brain. They also carry signals to and from the spinal cord to the rest of the body. Like my electric wires, sometimes these nerves don’t work properly. A patient may present with a history of weakness in a particular muscle or group of muscles in one of the extremities. We can evaluate this on a limited basis by checking the patient's strength, checking for sensory deficits with light touch or pin, and checking reflexes. But an intact reflex simply means an intact circuit.

Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

Many times we need to delve further to determine if the patient's complaint may be related to a pinched nerve or slipped disc. We can incorporate a two-part study called an EMG, which stands for electromyogram. In the first part, we give small shocks through the skin that activate the underlying nerve. This shock is of about the same intensity as if you were to flick your skin hard with your finger. The signal is then picked up over the muscle, much like the electrician putting a charge through a wire and then checking it at the other end. In our case, we are able to look at the amplitude, or size of the response, as well as the velocity at which the nerve transmits the signal. The shape of the waveform can implicate disease. A nice bell-shaped curve is normal, but if we would see a number of peaks and troughs in the waveform, this is indicative of disease. By looking at various nerves in an extremity, we are able to isolate the nerve that may be causing the problem. It is through this first part that we will sometimes be able to pick up on nerve compressions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

In the second part of the study, referred to as the needle exam, we take a needle no bigger than the size of a hair and slip this into the muscle. There is very little discomfort and patients often remark that they do not even feel it. The muscle cannot remain healthy without a healthy nerve, so if we have a herniated disc with pinched nerve, there is usually damage to the nerves at a certain level. We will see changes in the muscles that are activated by these nerve roots. With the muscle at rest, we will usually hear rhythmical ticking noises. These originate in the muscle and are indicative of a damaged nerve. It is the muscle's way of crying out for help.

In the second part of the needle exam, we will have the patient activate the muscle, and at that time, we should see characteristic waveforms that are usually very sharp in appearance and make a snappy sound on the screen at a certain rate. If we see that the voluntary contractions produce widened waveforms or that the rate of firing has increased, this too is suggestive of a pinched nerve. We can even determine how new or acute the process is or whether it is old and chronic. Instead of seeing one single peak, if we would see a waveform with multiple peaks, we know that the patient has had the problem for several months.

Besides pinched nerves, we can also look for evidence of diffuse damage at the ends of the longest nerves, what is referred to as a peripheral neuropathy. This is a very common disorder and can be seen if a person has conditions such as renal failure, B12 deficiency, or thyroid problems. Neuropathies can also occur if a person has been around toxins or poisons or with the use of certain medications in treating cancer. Patients with diabetes are a group who have a very high chance of peripheral neuropathy.

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“When we study a patient's peripheral nervous system, we are essentially an electrician checking out the patient's wiring.”

Eighty percent are thought to suffer from a peripheral neuropathy at ten years. Recent articles in the literature have now found that even glucose intolerance, which precedes diabetes, can bring about changes in the nerve and lead to a peripheral neuropathy.

Some of the earliest symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are numbness or burning in the feet, unexplained imbalance, unexplained pain and weakness in an extremity. If you experience any of these, consult your doctor, who could then arrange for this study.

For more information on any neurological issue, you may contact Dr. Pegg at 309-661-7344.

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emotional

Spirituality and Cancer

By Rev. Cheryl Peterson-Karlan, M Div, Community Cancer Center Chaplain

“As you ought not to attempt to cure the eyes without the head, or the head without the body, so neither ought you to attempt to cure the body without the soul…for the part can never be well unless the whole is well…And therefore, if the head and body are to be well, you must begin by curing the soul.”

— Plato

S

pirituality can be a powerful resource for our health and wellbeing. This word “spirituality” means different things to different people. Sometimes people make the assumption that spirituality and religion are the same. But spirituality is broader. Spirituality is that Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

which gives life meaning and purpose; it is a sense of connectedness to God, to self, and others. Religion falls under the big umbrella of spirituality and includes specific beliefs, practices, and values that are usually part of an organized group. Whether you think of yourself as spiritual, religious or both, spirituality can improve your overall quality of life.

When you or someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, you might find yourself more in touch with your spiritual side. Or, you might find you question your beliefs and withdraw from spiritual practices which once brought comfort, such as worship or prayer. All of these reactions are considered “normal” responses as you try to find your way through this challenging time.

Current research confirms Plato’s ideas of so many years ago: “Curing the soul” is one of the keys to better health. Spiritual well-being can improve your quality of life in the following ways: • Clarify a sense of meaning and purpose in life • Put problems into perspective and promote a positive outlook • Reduce stress, anxiety, depression and pain • Deepen personal growth • Decrease the sense of loneliness • Increase awareness of connectedness to others • Help overcome fear of death • Promote a sense of inner peace and joy As you read through this list, if you realize that you might like or need some spiritual support consider some of these tips for cultivating your spirituality: • Seek help from others. You might initiate conversations with your pastor, priest, rabbi, imam or call to talk with the chaplain at the Community Cancer Center.

• Develop a spiritual practice. Practices such as prayer, meditation, and worship can bring a sense of peace and calm in the midst of illness.

• Keep a journal. Putting your thoughts, questions, and feelings down on paper can be a powerful means of expression and giving voice to the soul.

• Read spiritual writings. Consider reading one of the sacred texts such as the Bible, Torah, Koran, or other faith-based texts. Open your mind to the wisdom of great spiritual writers. Explore books on spirituality and cancer.

• Connect with nature, music, and the arts. Embrace resources that connect you with beauty and delight.

Most importantly, remember that you are a spiritual person. A diagnosis of cancer can start this process of looking inward for a stronger connection to what is most meaningful and sacred to you. And it can provide an opportunity for you to grow in ways that enable you to truly live your life to the fullest.

For more information, contact the Community Cancer Center Chaplain at 309-451-8500.

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nutritional

Probiotics: A Gut Feeling

By Tom Rohde, M.D., Renew Total Body Wellness

P

robiotics are getting a lot of attention lately. Multiple large companies have started advertising their health benefits on television as the best thing since sliced bread. In reality probiotics have been around for a long time. They help to boost the immune system and prevent illness. Many cultures have enjoyed the benefits of fermented foods that contain these beneficial bacteria to keep their gut healthy and their immune system supported.

Think sauerkraut in Germany, kimchee in Asian countries, and yogurt in many other societies.

Let's start with the facts behind probiotics. The root of the word probiotic comes from the Greek word pro, meaning "promoting" and biotic, meaning "life.” Probiotics are generally described as live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. The intestinal microflora maintains a balance between "good" bacteria and "bad" bacteria, which Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

is necessary for optimal health. Things like medications (antibiotics in particular), diet, diseases, and the environment can unfortunately upset that balance and lead to intestinal distress. Constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel, even inflammatory bowel illnesses are more prevalent in those with an unbalanced gut microflora as this directly impacts the immune system.

What is the gut?

You've no doubt heard the saying, “a gut feeling", which is a sense you have about something without really knowing why.

This comes from the fact that many of us experience emotions in the gut area. Think about where you would physically feel a "gut feeling." Research has shown that the network of neurons lining our guts is so extensive that it has now been nicknamed our "second brain.” This "second brain" is known as the enteric nervous

system. It is a collection of neurons in the gastrointestinal tract.

Its role is to manage every aspect of digestion in all the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon. This gut "brain" doesn't think for us, but it does play a key role in certain diseases and communicates with the brain via neurotransmitters and neuropeptides utilizing over 100 million neurons in the process.

The majority of our neurotransmitter serotonin is produced in our gut. This can strongly affect our emotions and our gut response to those emotions; in particular calm or anxious, upbeat or depressed. Think of the intestinal distress many suffer when asked to speak in front of a large group—diarrhea courtesy of increased serotonin and anxiety about the speaking portion!

Within your gastrointestinal tract, there is a huge bacterial environment. This complex ecosystem contains over 400 bacterial species, and there are more total bacteria in your gut than numbers of base pairs in your DNA—this is huge! Small amounts of these vital bacteria can be found in your stomach and small intestines, but the majority is found in your colon. This vast intestinal microflora aids in digestion, synthesizes vitamins and nutrients, metabolizes some medications, supports the development and functioning of the gut, maintains healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels, reduces inflammation, improves mineral absorption, and enhances the immune system. In short, it is vital to keep you in your best health!

Who would benefit from a probiotic?

Almost everyone can benefit from a probiotic because we are exposed to so many toxic substances on a daily basis that can

damage our beneficial gut bacteria and thereby our health. A few examples are antibiotic residues in milk, which is fed to cows in large production facilities, and pesticides and chemicals in the foods we eat, that are toxic to our "good" bacteria. Infants and children also benefit from using a probiotic supplement. Newborns receive their first beneficial gut bacteria during the vaginal birthing process; however, many children are now born via C-section bypassing the gut inoculation of beneficial bacteria. Supplying additional good bacteria throughout the early years helps support digestive and immune health keeping our precious young ones healthy and avoiding further damage by unnecessary antibiotic use. Probiotics also reduce the risk of developing allergies at a young age, since they help support the intestinal lining and prohibit allergens from entering the digestive tract.

Adults over 50 years of age should definitely supplement their diets with a broad-spectrum probiotic to obtain the immunityenhancing benefits of these helpful bacteria. In combination with an upper normal level of Vitamin D-3, you'll be protected from colds and flu that are around the community. While there are many products on the market, we have had great success using Florajen 3. It is equal to eating more than 10 servings of yogurt and you don’t get the extra sugar that is in yogurt. My patients have great results with probiotics.

Dr. Rohde is committed to a more personalized approach to your healthcare. You may visit his website www.DrRohde.com for more information. To schedule an appointment for a consultation, please call his office at 217-864-2700.

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

planter fasciitis

Feet Don’t Fail Me Now!

By Doug Price, Advanced Rehab and Sports Medicine

S

ummer is halfway over and many people have been making the most of the warm weather by walking, running, and biking. Maybe you’re a regular participant in the numerous charity walks/runs that are happening almost every weekend or you’ve been training for your first 5K run. You’re feeling great about yourself and then, bam, it happens—foot pain. The pain is either in the heel, the arch, or the whole underside of your foot.

Welcome to the wonderful world of plantar fasciitis.

So what is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory process of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band of connective tissue that originates from the calcaneus (heel bone), and extends along the sole of the foot towards the five toes.

Now, the above scenario of one increasing their activity level is just one of the causes that can lead to plantar fasciitis. Another cause of plantar fasciitis is related to people with a high body mass index, combined with extended periods of weight bearing. Both of these can place a tremendous amount of stress on the fascia, leading to tightness, inflammation, and pain.

As for the location of the pain, studies have shown that 52% of all plantar fascia pain occurs around the calcaneus (heel), while the rest is distributed throughout the metatarsals and forefoot. The pain can be quite debilitating and last for months if ignored. The good news is that all of this can be easily managed or prevented.

and exercises to strengthen the foot and lower leg. All of these procedures are effective in alleviating the painful symptoms, but might not completely remedy the situation. Orthotics might also be indicated to help place the foot in a proper position and support the arch, therefore alleviating the stress on the tibialis posterior tendon and plantar fascia. Night splinting to help maintain a dorsiflexed position, and therefore stretching the fascia might also be indicated to alleviate symptoms. The heel pain of plantar fasciitis can almost always be relieved by non-surgical methods.

Treatment Treatment is more successful and takes less time if you deal with it as soon as you notice symptoms rather than waiting “to see if it goes away.” Physical therapy offers many different types of treatments including ultrasound, deep tissue massage, stretching,

For more information you may contact, Advanced Rehab & Sports Medicine Services at 309-664-9104 or www.advrehab.com.

Their office is located at 135 N. Williamsburg Dr. in Bloomington.

Free assessments are offered within 24 hours of contact for patients of all ages.

Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

Prevention Now, let’s get back to the start of our new found passion for exercise. If you simply add some basic calf strengthening and stretching to your pre/post workout routine, chances are you will be able to avoid these annoying pains in the heels. This in turn will help you to avoid those annoying therapists which can be pains in another part of the body. So when you start your exercise routine for the season, try to remember to include strengthening and flexibility exercise to your cardiovascular routine. Unless of course you just really love your local physical therapy clinic, which is understandable!!

Now get out there, and get moving!

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

fall allergies

Ragweed Pollen

Coming Soon to a Place Near You!

By Dana Dalbak, PA-C, Sneeze, Wheeze, and Itch Associates, LLC

D

uring the fall months, ragweed pollen assumes center stage as the primary foe for hay fever suffers. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen. Symptoms include runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and watery/itchy eyes. Approximately 10 percent to 20 percent of Americans are sensitized to ragweed pollen as an allergy trigger.

Ragweed pollen makes its debut in early August, and maintains its presence through October, or until the first hard frost. The life span of pollen may be less than two hours, but its ability to produce an allergic reaction continues indefinitely. Avoiding this star of the fall allergy scene is the way to keep your nose in shape. Escaping ragweed pollen, however, can be a tall order.

Ragweed species make an appearance in every state except Alaska. The culprit is found along roadsides and in fields. The weed is even prevalent in urban areas, frequently growing in vacant lots.

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One ragweed plant produces one billion pollen grains, and each grain can travel up to 400 miles!

Fortunately, our audience of allergy sufferers is not without resources to deal with airborne allergens. The first step is identifying what you are allergic to. This can be done with a simple skin test in the allergist’s office.

After specific allergies are identified, monitoring pollen counts enables a patient to employ extra measures during times when counts are high. The National Allergy Bureau (NAB) provides the most accurate pollen and mold levels from more than 80 counting stations. They also offer free email alerts.

Pollen counts are different than pollen forecasts. Forecasts are a prediction based on previous years and weather. Counts are a measurement taken by an instrument over a 24 hour period, and are reported for specific plants such as weeds, trees, grasses, and mold spores. You can visit the NAB at www.aaaai.org/global/nab-pollen-counts.aspx.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology offers the following tips to minimize symptoms when counts are high: • Keep windows closed and use air conditioning.

• Avoid being outdoors when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen times are usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Counts are lower on windless, cloudy days and after a heavy rain.

• Keep car windows closed when traveling.

• Take a shower after spending time outdoors, as pollen can collect on hair, skin, and clothing.

• Don’t hang laundry outdoors to dry.

When avoidance strategies aren’t sufficient to bring down the curtain on bothersome symptoms, medication is available. Choice of medication depends on which symptoms are most troublesome to the patient. Non-sedating antihistamines and saline nasal rinses can be found over-the-counter. Other medications are available with prescription. Medications currently available are both very effective and very well tolerated.

For patients who prefer not to take daily medication or who continue to have bothersome symptoms, immunotherapy is the ticket.

This treatment is commonly known as allergy shots. This long-term therapy can significantly reduce the severity of allergic response to allergens, such as ragweed.

An allergist can guide you through the process of determining your specific allergies, which avoidance measures are most helpful, and appropriate treatment options. Keep in mind that hay fever medications work best if started before the allergy season hits.

So, don’t let ragweed steal the show this fall. Keep these tips and options in mind, and your season can be a class act!

If you are bothered by seasonal allergies, contact Sneeze, Wheeze & Itch Associates at 309-452-0995 to schedule an appointment with an allergist/immunologist.

elder care

Care for the Caregiver

By Rose M. Stadel, Vice President of Operations, Heritage Enterprises, Inc.

H

ave you recently become a caregiver for an aging loved one? A report by the National Alliance for Caregiving, in collaboration with the American Association of Retired Persons, estimates that 65 million people provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend during any given year. Caregivers spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care for their loved one. Some surveys suggest that baby boomers—adults born between 1946 and 1964—will spend more years caring for a parent than for their children.

Caring for an elderly person can be a labor of love. Unfortunately, most people who find themselves in the caregiver role are unprepared for the challenges they will face. Caregivers often feel guilty and frustrated because of the demands on their time and the significant changes this role brings in their lives, and their family.

They may be hesitant to speak up about the difficulty of the job and its physical and emotional demands. It can be difficult to know where to look for help or even what questions to ask. The reality is that millions of family caregivers are experiencing the same feelings.

There is help available. Children of Aging Parents (CAPS) is a non-profit, charitable organization. Its mission is to provide reliable information and easy access to resources for the millions in our country who act as caregivers for the elderly.

The local affiliate of CAPS meets the last Wednesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Adelaide Retirement Community at 505 North Adelaide, Normal. Group members provide practical advice, understanding, affirmation, and emotional support to anyone in need. All information shared is kept strictly confidential. A list of available resources, publications, and programs is available to provide easy access for help.

It is critically important that caregivers take good care of themselves. Caregiver stress is real and can make one more vulnerable to heart disease, infection, depression, and other medical problems.

Children of Aging Parents Support Group (CAPS) Last Wednesday of each month 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Here are some tips from the CAPS group: • Ask for help.

• Accept help when it is offered.

• Be realistic about what you can do.

• Take one day at a time, sometimes one minute at a time.

• Plan ahead. Know what resources are out there before you need them.

• Manage your stress.

• Keep your sense of humor.

• Make your health a priority. Get enough rest and eat properly.

• Be good to yourself and take a break.

• Go for a walk.

• Most of all, share your feelings with others because you are not alone.

CAPS welcomes anyone interested in the topic of caregiving, not just those with elderly parents. For more information about the national CAPS organization, go to www.caps4caregivers.org. For information about the local affiliate, call 309-268-4209.

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

home safety Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Prepare Your Home Before You Travel

Use this Easy Checklist to Be Worry Free While You’re Gone

A

ccording to a recent national survey conducted by Harris Interactive, the vast majority of Americans (87 percent) are planning to take vacation trips this season. In fact, nearly one-in-five Americans plan to take more trips this year than last. With millions of Americans spending time away on vacation, houses and homes are bound to have a lot of alone time.

“People travel, and in those days leading up to trips and vacations, a lot can be on your mind,” says Toolbelt Diva and home improvement expert Norma Vally. “That’s why Liquid-Plumr and I have put together a tried-and-true list that will help put your mind at ease before you say ‘bon voyage!’”

Check out the checklist: • Face Your Fridge: If you’re going on a long vacation, dispose of all perishable food and wipe down the refrigerator with an eco-friendly cleaning wipe. This is a great way to help clean grease and grime and prevent mold and odor buildup from spoiled food. Leave an open box of baking soda in the center of the fridge to soak up any remaining odors.

• Class up Your Trash: Empty the trash the morning you leave. Try re-bagging your trashcan with bags that help neutralize odors.

• Put Your Compost on Lock Down: Like the trash, be sure to empty your compost bin before you leave. Try odor-absorbing stainless steel compost pails—they look chic and work to filter and absorb food odors.

• Be a Garbage Disposal Guru: Look for products designed specifically for pesky disposals, like new Liquid-Plumr Disposal + Drain Foaming Cleaner. On the day you depart, drop a no-mess pack down your drain to eliminate lingering smells in your garbage disposal. It leaves nothing behind but a fresh, citrus scent.

• Mind Your Thermostat: Don't let the temperature of your house exceed 85 degrees. Set the thermostat to about 85 or below before you leave. You should also make sure the filters on your central air system are clean. Having clean air filters will ensure that your air conditioning unit runs efficiently while you're away.

• Water Off and Power Down: Unplug all nonessential appliances and electronic devices, including turning off power strips. Shut off the water-main running to the interior of the house.

• Give Your Washing Machine a Break: Avoid a possible flood due to a burst washer hose by shutting off your machine’s hot and cold water valves, usually located directly behind the washing machine.

For more information about other household fixes, visit LiquidPlumr’s Tool School at www.Facebook.com/LiquidPlumr.

Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

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Our vast array of TREATMENT OPTIONS are tailored to meet the needs of each individual patient.

“We treat the most complex problems using the latest state-of-the-art techniques.

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2502 E. EMPIRE ST. BLOOMINGTON, IL 61704 August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

healthy pets

Is Your Pet Ready for Warm Weather Fun? B

efore heading outdoors, make sure your pet is ready for the season. It’s important to pay extra attention to your pet when temperatures climb.

Pet parents can make sure their pets stay comfortable, happy and healthy by preparing for the day ahead. These tips are for pet parents looking to include their canine companions in warm-weather activities.

Keep pets groomed.

A winter indoors often leaves pets with dry skin, tangled fur and a thick undercoat, which begins to shed when the weather warms. Take your dog to a professional grooming salon to help keep them cool with services like a bath, brush or hair cut to remove loose hair. Have their skin and coat moisturized with a soothing conditioner and their nails trimmed.

After grooming, brush your dog frequently and trim nails regularly to keep them clean and minimize dirt and debris collected from playing outdoors. Keep grooming tools, such as the Martha Stewart Pets Massager Brush and nail clippers, handy by hanging them behind the back door or tucking them into a basket.

Keep pets hydrated.

Pets need lots of water, especially when it’s hot. Be sure to pack extra bottles of water for your dog when heading outdoors for a long hike, walk, jog or trip to the park. Remember, if you’re feeling hot, tired and thirsty, your pet likely feels the same way.

Wet food also helps pets stay hydrated, so consider adding wet food to dry kibble, along with extra water.

Keep pets sheltered.

While the outdoors beckon pets to play, high temperatures can be dangerous. Keep your pet indoors during the hottest part of the day to help them avoid such conditions as dehydration, heatstroke and paw injuries from overheated pavement.

Consider taking your dog to an indoor play center to keep them happy. They’ll spend the day interacting and exercising with other dogs and trained pet-loving professionals while you’re at work or running errands.

Keep pets pest-free.

Pets are susceptible to a variety of bugs and pests – especially fleas and ticks. While fleas can trigger allergies and dermatitis, ticks may carry zoonotic diseases, which can be passed to humans. Purchase preventative collars and topical treatments to Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

protect your pet. And after every outdoor trip, inspect pets carefully for ticks and other insects to ensure their safety.

Get pets ready to hit the road.

• Prepare pets for a long road trip in a crate by taking them on short drives while running errands around town. Your pet will acclimate to traveling in his crate before your vacation. Remember, however, not to leave pets in hot cars while you go into a store.

• Try using pheromone sprays and toys, which may help the pet feel calmer while inside his crate. Avoid plush toys, which can shred and be ingested.

• Dog training classes are a good way to be sure your pet is comfortable in different environments and around new faces.

Going camping with pets.

• Protect your dog’s feet with hiking booties. Come into the store with your dog so that booties can be fit properly. Always remove the booties when you reach your destination or return to the campground so paws don’t get overheated.

• Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day and walk in shaded areas when possible.

• Always keep a fresh supply of drinking water on hand for your pet, and be sure to offer water at least hourly while hiking.

For more pet parenting tips, products and services to care for your pet, visit www.PetSmart.com.

healthy skin

Green Tea and Younger Looking Skin

By Karen Sutcliffe, Licensed Esthetician, KSkin Spa

G

reen tea has many health and beauty benefits, whether you drink it or apply it to your skin. Green tea is full of antioxidants that protect against cell damaging free radicals. Free radicals are dangerous since they damage healthy cells by stealing electrons.

There are over 200 active compounds in green tea called polyphenols.

Black and white teas are also high in polyphenols.

The anti-oxidants found in green tea can help slow down or minimize some of the signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging. Drinking green tea fights against inflammation and boosts your immune system.

It also improves and promotes microcirculation. This is important since circulation slows as we age.

Many types of skin care products have included vitamins A, C and E or chemical antioxidants. Research is indicating that green tea has even more antioxidant properties than these powerful vitamins and it is being found in more and more skin care products.

You might want to consider a skin care product with green tea in it.

I especially recommend my green tea creamy cleanser that is suitable for all skin types and is a good first cleanser to dissolve daily grime and make-up. I believe in the power of green tea so much that I now include green tea in all facials that I do.

Green tea can help improve your health when you drink it and keep your skin in great shape when incorporated in a topical product.

For more information or to set up an appointment, you may contact Karen Sutcliffe, Licensed Esthetician, at KSkin Spa at 309-242-1899 or visit www.kskinspa.com. KSkin is located at 1234 E. Empire St. in Bloomington.

Green Tea Smoothie 1 cup 2/3 cup 2/3 cup 2 tbls

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

feature story

Obstetrics and Gynecology Care Associates, S.C.: Empowering Women for Life

By Amy Kennard

E

mpowerment: the giving or delegation of power or authority.

Since the early days of the Women’s Rights Movement, women have been fighting for empowerment — in their jobs, their families, and their place in society. But there’s one area in life that we may sometimes find ourselves deficient — our own health.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Care Associates, S.C. (Ob-Gyn Care) is a full-service provider of women’s health, with a goal of empowering women to take charge of their own health and well-being from their teens to their twilight years.

Proactive care in a home-like environment Visiting your OB/GYN, is often not something a woman looks forward to. Many put off making that appointment until pregnancy or serious medical condition occurs. From Ob-Gyn Care’s beginning, their mission has been to provide exceptional, personalized health care in a warm and welcoming environment, while incorporating modern technology to bring you the best of care through life’s journey.

The difference is evident from the moment you walk in the door.

The waiting room reflects a cozy coffee shop, with shabby chic couches and a beverage station. There are no stark, clinical appointment rooms in this office — in fact, it’s more like walking in to a friend’s home. Each room is defined by color — soothing palettes of earth and jewel tones, with furnishings that look like they just came out of a Pier One catalog. In some rooms, portraits of the staff’s children and families grace the walls, while lighting is accentuated with cozy table top lamps.

Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

Laura Wiegand, Administrator for Ob-Gyn Care wanted a welcoming environment where patients would feel welcomed and relaxed, and they have successfully achieved that. “White and sterile historically sets women on guard. We want our practice to feel like home and make their experience here as comfortable as possible.

We even have women request a certain room just to see the different decors!” Laura also notes, “The nature of women is to put the needs of others before their own. However, women need to realize that in order to take care of others, they have to first take care of themselves.”

While office décor may not be a huge factor in choosing your OB/GYN practice, quality of care is. At Ob-Gyn Care their ultimate goal is to provide top notch care in a friendly and welcoming environment. That “care” should be lifelong, and Ob-Gyn Care has made it their mission to educate women on the importance of just that. Vicki Voegel is a Certified Physician Assistant who has been with the practice since 2004, and has been instrumental in promoting the importance of lifelong care. “It’s important to establish a relationship with your OB/GYN provider in order to provide them with a baseline,” she explains. “That way, if there is an issue, we know you and can provide you the best care and treatment possible based on your history.” She continues, “Many women feel they no longer have to see their OB/GYN once they are done having babies, but that is so untrue. That aspect of your health should be monitored and nurtured just like you do with those you take care of in your own life.”

What to expect when you’re done expecting Whether we’ve had children or not, many women seem to think that once they reach their 40’s, their bodies will pretty much run themselves. However, there are a myriad of issues that occur and are often chalked up to age that should be addressed. Annual pap smears and breast exams including mammograms are still of vital importance.

Menopause and premenopausal symptoms can upset a woman’s hormonal balance to varying degrees. Gynecological issues such as urinary leakage, excessive menstrual bleeding and back and abdominal pain are sometimes dismissed as “that’s just what happens” when they should be taken more seriously. Many of these changes are related to the natural aging process, however, that does not mean we can’t do anything about them. You don’t have to “live with it”.

Excessive Bleeding (Menorrhagia) One in five women report heavy bleeding to their healthcare providers each year. Though most common in women nearing menopause, excessive menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can also occur in adolescents who recently began their periods. Menorrhagia is the most common type of abnormal bleeding from the uterus, and is diagnosed by the following symptoms: • Soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours • Nighttime bleeding that requires a change in pad or tampon • Passing large blood clots during your period • A period lasting longer than a week Menorrhagia can not only be inconvenient and sometimes painful, but it can also signal a number of possible causes, including: • A hormonal imbalance of estrogen and progesterone • Fibroids or noncancerous tumors of the uterus • Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy • Endometriosis In rare cases, menorrhagia can be a warning sign of uterine cancer or other diseases/disorders. The treatments for menorrhagia depend on the cause and severity of the bleeding. However, Dr. Joe Santiago, who has been with the practice since 1995, is an advocate and proponent for a women’s quality of life. “If bleeding — during your menstrual cycle or between periods is interfering with your everyday life and activities, you need to get it checked out, there are so many ways we can help get their life back.” In some cases, medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce blood loss and help alleviate pain. Hormone therapy can help correct an imbalance. Endometrial ablation, an in-office procedure option can address the problem as well. Severe bleeding which has been unchanged despite these options may require a hysterectomy to completely remove the uterus and cervix.

In some cases, minor outpatient procedures are recommended, one of the newer being endometrial ablation, a simple, minimally invasive procedure that can be done in the office. Under the skillful hand of Dr. Santiago, this procedure involves inserting and inflating a small, soft, flexible silicon balloon filled with fluid that is heated and circulated to cauterize the lining of the uterus. Taking only 8 minutes, ablation is done with local anesthetic, minimal discomfort, and is a great option for women who do not wish to have more children.

Incontinence (or involuntary loss of urine) Urinary incontinence affects 20 to 30 percent of young women, 30 to 40 percent of middle aged women, and up to one-half of women aged 60 years and older. They may experience small losses of urine when running, coughing, laughing or jumping. Body changes during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause are the primary causes. Incontinence occurs when your bladder muscles suddenly contract or the August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

feature story

continued

sphincter muscles are not strong enough to hold back urine. Urine may escape with less pressure than usual if the muscles are damaged, causing a change in the position of the bladder.

While many women may assume they should see a urologist for incontinence, a gynecologist who specializes in the female reproductive tract is also able to evaluate this problem. Ob-Gyn Care offers Cystometrics, a relatively non-invasive collection of tests that provide valuable data on bladder function in order to make the best recommendation for treatment.

While many women assume that an occasional leaking of urine is part of getting older, Vicki cautions against that mentality. “The problem isn’t going to solve itself, and over time it may get worse. Cystometrics will determine the root cause of your incontinence, so that we may be able to more accurately treat whether that is as simple as a basic exercise or as extensively as surgery if necessary.”

Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

Back and abdominal pain The broadest condition of all and the second biggest complaint next to headaches, back and abdominal pain can vary widely in cause and symptom. Where it relates to women, this pain could be related to Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, infections, uterine prolapse, tumors, premenstrual tension (PMT), fibromyalgia and more.

The most important part of any pain evaluation is taking the patient’s history. Once they have the “story” they can better determine what testing, treatments and therapies are best in any given circumstance.

Ob-Gyn care can not only prescribe standard medications and treatments, but have other services as well that may seem unique to such a practice. Align Life’s Dr. Karl Oliger is available in the office several mornings a week to perform chiropractic services in a comfortable and relaxed private room. Ob-Gyn Care’s Caring Touch Spa offers well-

ness and medical massages by licensed massage therapists and certified reiki practitioners in a comfortable and safe atmosphere.

Surgery Surgery is never something that anyone wants to hear – but in the situations where it is the best course of action, Dr. Joe Santiago is the leading area provider using the da Vinci Surgical System. This robotic-assisted system involves having to make only a few tiny, one to two centimeter incisions and operate with greater precision and control, thus minimizing pain and risk associated with larger incisions.

The result? Faster recovery, less scarring, a shorter hospital stay, minimal blood loss, less pain, and more successful clinical outcomes for the patients.

“It’s quite revolutionary and takes the benefits of laparoscopic surgery to a new level,” says Dr. Santiago. “The da Vinci Surgical System gets you back on your feet quickly versus traditional surgery. For instance, a traditional hysterectomy would take about 8 weeks of recovery and these days that’s something you just can’t afford. The da Vinci Surgical System allows you to return to traditional activities within a week or two. Having a problem completely taken care of is of course important, but getting back to your life and family as soon as possible is a great added bonus!”

Ob-Gyn Care offers obstetrics and gynecological care as well as a variety of unique services:

“Getting you back to well” As mentioned earlier, it’s important to have a relationship with your OB/GYN in order to establish a baseline of care, which is in itself empowering us as women to take charge of our health. Jolene Hamann, Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner says, “Women can do so much for their own health simply by establishing and maintaining care with a trusted provider.” She continues, “We want women to know that we are their advocate. We don’t just treat their problems and send them on your way – we get them back to wellness and ensure that we – and they – are doing everything possible to maintain their health and well-being at any age and stage of life.”

• Comfortable and relaxing patient rooms • Caring Staff • Caring Touch Spa • Chiropractic care • Acupuncture • Reiki • Medical massage • Educational classes • In-office procedures • Da Vinci® Robotic Surgery System • Physician Assistant • Certified Nurse Midwife

Obstetrics and Gynecology Care Associates, S.C. is a unique, full-service provider of women’s healthcare located at 1505 Eastland Drive, Suite 500 in Bloomington.

View their comprehensive and user-friendly website at www.obgyncare.com or “Like” their Facebook page (Ob-Gyn Care) for updates, educational classes and events.

Join Ob-Gyn Care for a VIP Night for Women on September 13 at their offices at 1505 Eastland Drive, Suite 500 in Bloomington.

Educational topics will feature issues that older women face.

Refreshments will be served. More details will be available soon on their website or by calling their office at 309.662.2273.

• Complimentary Massage during pregnancy • Educational Classes throughout pregnancy • 3D/4D ultrasound technology • New Mom Support Group • Lactation Consultant • Doula services • Water birth • Gentle Cesarean Options • Listening Ears • Leading Area Surgeon • Patient Events

August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

oral health

Flossing

Is it Worth the Trouble?

By Daniel Jacobsen, DMD, Prairie Dental Associates

Y

ou know it’s coming. You get called back by your hygienist for your routine cleaning. You take a seat. She starts asking questions. “Are you flossing?” How do you answer? Are you honest? Do you feel like you must lie? If you are one of the reported 12% of Americans who actually does floss daily, you don’t have to lie.

Why do your hygienist and dentist always preach about flossing?

You’re a good brusher. You even use a mouth rinse. That should be good enough, right? Wrong. The truth is that flossing reaches very important places in your mouth that brushing and rinsing cannot clean. Let’s take a closer look at the areas in question.

Between your teeth (a.k.a. interproximal areas) While toothbrush bristles can reach slightly into those crevices between your teeth, only floss can adequately remove plaque and debris that builds up in a cavity prone area; the contact area just below where your adjacent teeth touch each other. (See photo on next page) While mouth rinses do contact those cavity prone areas, they are no substitute for the plaque removal action of floss.

This action not only helps prevent cavities in this area, but also prevents the accumulation of tartar.

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Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

Below the gum line Toothbrush bristles are capable of reaching about one millimeter below your gum line. The problem is that your gum pockets are generally two to three millimeters deep. The proper use of floss allows you to comfortably remove plaque and debris a couple millimeters below the gum line, particularly in those interproximal areas. If plaque below the gum line is not regularly removed, it can turn into tartar, which can only be removed by your hygienist. The build-up of tartar at or below the gum line is one of the main culprits in the development of gum disease. Many people live with gum disease and make no attempt to remedy the situation. Think about this: gum tissue accounts for approximately one square foot of tissue. If you had an infected or inflamed area of tissue that size anywhere else on your body, wouldn’t you do something about it? Also, gum disease affects more than just your mouth. It has been linked to respiratory diseases, diabetes complications, and joint problems, among other things.

The interproximal margins of restorations All restorations such as crowns and fillings have margins. The margins are the areas where the restoration butts up against natural tooth structure. (See photo) These areas have a greater tendency to collect plaque than natural teeth without restorations.

For that reason, margins are the places where teeth with crowns or fillings most frequently develop additional decay. As mentioned before, the toothbrush can only do so much to keep these interproximal areas clean. To extend the life of your restorations, you must floss to keep all margins clean.

Floss is one of many products designed to clean between teeth.

There are also small “flossers” that have floss connected to a small

Contact Point

Crown Margin

Filling Margin

handle for greater ease of use. Water picks, interproximal brushes, and soft-picks are also very helpful for some people. All of these products will help to prevent gum disease and decay. Please ask your dentist about these products and about techniques for establishing and maintaining a healthy mouth. You don’t need to lie!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, you may contact Prairie Dental Associates, 309-662-7722. Their office is located at 3220 Gerig Drive in Bloomington.

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child development

What is Cerebral Palsy?

By Stephanie Polka, MAPT, Director of Clinical Services, Easter Seals Bloomington

C

erebral palsy is a general term for motor impairment resulting from an injury to the developing central nervous system.

It is non-progressive, or does not worsen, and occurs at a rate of 1.2 to 2.5 per 1,000 live births. Cerebral Palsy can occur before, during, or after birth, and is often the result of prematurity, low-birth weight, lack of oxygen, or infection. Cerebral Palsy can result in limited motor coordination, stiffness, weakness, and overall limited movement, specifically with higher-level skills such as walking, running, and hopping.

Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

What are the early signs?

Cerebral palsy is caused by damage in the brain that affects a child’s ability to control his or her muscles. Problems in different parts of the brain cause problems in different parts of the body.

Children may present with stiffness and limited movement, or they may show signs of weakness and decreased tone. Other signs may include differences in walking patterns; up on toes, crouched gait, or scissoring. If you have concern about your child’s movement patterns, your pediatrician can help to determine if it is typical for a developing child, or if further evaluation is warranted.

Is there any treatment?

Cerebral Palsy cannot be cured, but supportive treatments will often improve the child’s skills and abilities. Early intervention for a young child with cerebral palsy is critical in optimizing the child’s health and quality of life. The sooner a child receives needed services such as physical, occupational, speech and language, and feeding therapy, the more beneficial to the child. Other interventions include: medications to manage seizures, pain, or stiffness; assistive technology such as wheelchairs, standers, and walkers, and other supportive devices such as orthoses, splints and braces.

Not only can early intervention improve functional outcomes, it may also improve the psychological and emotional well being of both the child and family. With early intervention, families are able to set realistic expectations and cope with the issues related to raising a child with special needs.

What is the prognosis?

Cerebral Palsy can lead to a variety of long-term outcomes.

Some children may have significant limitations and require support and assistance throughout their lifetime. Other children may have mild limitations and develop the skills and strategies necessary to accomplish their goals and live independently. Ultimately, the goal for every child is to reach their full potential and participate in activities they love.

For more information, you may contact Easter Seals in Bloomington at 309-663-8275. More detailed information can also be found online at www.EasterSeals.com and www.ninds.nih.gov/ disorders/cerebral_palsy

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 27

metastatic breast cancer

New Targeted Therapies for Treatment

By Bhanu Vakkalanka, MD, Mid-Illinois Hematology & Oncology Associates

A

bout a third of patients with breast cancer express a protein receptor on the surface of the cancer cells, called HER2. Part of this receptor is outside (extracellular) and part of it is inside (intracellular) the cell. These receptors are stimulated by circulating proteins called epidermal growth factors. The presence of this protein has been proven to be an adverse prognostic feature in breast cancer and usually indicates that such tumors are likely to behave more aggressively than others. Inhibition of the interaction between the circulating growth factors and the cell surface receptors is an effective way of treating breast cancer patients that are HER2 positive and is described as targeted therapy.

Trastuzumab (Herceptin) is a drug approved for the treatment of HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer. This is an antibody that specifically targets the breast cancer cell surface receptor and blocks the circulating growth factors from stimulating these cancer cells. In a landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2001, Trastuzumab in combination with conventional chemotherapy was

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Page 28 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

associated with a five-month improvement in overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone for metastatic breast cancer. This drug was subsequently proven to be beneficial even in the setting of early breast cancer and has become standard treatment for patients expressing HER2 receptors.

Efforts continued to be made to improve the outcomes for HER2 positive breast cancer patients. A new drug called Pertuzumab (Perjeta) was developed which also targets the HER2 receptor but binds at a different location than Trastuzumab. In a recently published trial, Pertuzumab, in combination with Trastuzumab and a chemotherapy drug called Taxotere, was compared to Trastuzumab and Taxotere only and showed an approximate six-month improvement of progression free survival (time during which no disease progression was noted). There was no significant worsening of adverse effects for the three-drug combination compared to the two-drug regimen. The most common side effects were diarrhea, loss of hair, decreased white cell count, nausea, and fatigue among others.

The study was initially presented at the San Antonio breast cancer conference in December 2011 and then the drug underwent a fast track processing culminating in its approval in June 2012. More recently, the manufacturer of this drug claimed that overall survival of these patients was also found to be improved although these findings are waiting to be officially published in a peer-reviewed journal.

In addition, data on another new-targeted therapy for breast cancer called T-DM1 was presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology in June 2012. This is a novel drug, which is an antibody (trastuzumab) drug (emanstine) conjugate. The antibody binds to the receptor on the surface of the breast cancer cell and then the chemotherapeutic drug is delivered into the cancer cells resulting in their death. This targeted delivery of chemotherapy increases the effectiveness of the treatment while keeping the side effects to the normal tissues to a minimum. In a trial called ‘EMILIA’, researchers have shown that in patients who were pretreated with Trastuzumab-based therapy, T-DM1 was found to be superior to a standard combination therapy of two drugs called Capecitabine and Lapatanib. Disease free survival in patients treated with T-DM1 was 9.6 months compared to 6.4 months in patients treated with the combination therapy. Overall survival was also superior with T-DM1 although median overall survival was not yet reached in these patients. T-DM1 was also generally better tolerated than Capecitabine and Lapatinib suggesting that there will be a wide spread interest in the new drug once it is approved by the FDA. Breast cancer treatment continues to evolve slowly but surely with significant advances being made in the last several years. It is exciting to share these great new discoveries with the readers of this magazine and I look forward to bringing many more such findings to you in the future.

Mid-Illinois Hematology & Oncology Associates is located at the Community Cancer Center, 407 E. Vernon in Normal, Illinois. You may contact them at 309-452-9701.

sports and energy drinks

Not Kids’ Stuff

By Aaron Traeger, MD, Advocate Medical Group

I

t’s summertime. Kids and teens all over the country—those who are athletes, and those who aren’t—are beating the heat and quenching their thirst by downing record amounts of sports and energy drinks. But should they be?

Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics released a clinical report on Sports and Energy Drinks. This report confirmed what my practice has been telling teens and their families for years.

Sports Drinks (Gatorade®, Propel®, etc) Sports drinks are being marketed to teens and families as if they are needed for performance enhancement. The truth is that most children and teens only need water and a good balanced diet to recover from being physically active. The problem with these drinks is that they contain a lot of calories that are wasted with no nutritional value. The electrolytes contained in these drinks provide no benefit, as a normal diet will easily replenish electrolytes lost with activity. The added amino acids or proteins also provide no benefit, and their use is not scientifically supported.

Probably the only situation where these drinks should be used in teens/children is in the case of prolonged physical activity where recovery time is limited; for example, a basketball tournament weekend and used between games the same day.

Energy Drinks (5-Hour Energy ®, Red Bull®, Monster®, etc) Energy drinks are also being marketed to children & teens, telling them that they need more energy to perform better in sports, school, or life. The truth behind this is that they should not be used in children. While they are usually low in calories, the caffeine can cause an unsafe increase in heart rate or blood pressure. Caffeine can make you urinate more and dehydrate you during sporting activities. Teens that use caffeine often report issues with sleeping, mood changes and anxiety. The most terrifying issue with caffeine

use is that it can lead to heart problems like arrhythmia, an abnormal heart beat. The true effect of caffeine on developing brains (teens) is unknown, but we do believe that there is a higher chance for addiction in this age group.

The Bottom Line • There is a lot of misuse by teens of both sports drinks and energy drinks. They are being used as recreational drinks and not for recovery from vigorous sports activity.

• Sports drinks should not be used for meals or snacks.

• Sports drinks should not be available in the school setting. The reason for increased marketing of these drinks to young people is likely due to the restrictions placed on soda availability in the school. When the soda companies were told to get soda out of schools, the companies started pushing these drinks as a "healthier alternative", even though they are not.

• Sports drinks are no different than soda or other "empty calories" and are contributing to the overweight and obesity epidemic our children are facing. Continue to follow the 5-2-1-0 rule and you will be just fine: ∙ 5 fruit and veggie servings per day ∙ 2 hours MAX of screen time (time in front of a TV, computer, phone, etc) ∙ 1 hour of activity per day ∙ 0 drinks that contain calories. This includes sports drinks, soda, juice, etc.

Dr. Aaron Traeger is a pediatrician with Advocate Medical Group – Primary Care in Normal. For an appointment or more information, call 309-268-2727 or 1-800-3ADVOCATE, or visit www.amgdoctors.com.

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 29

the right dose

What to Look for When Choosing a

Compounding Pharmacy

By Lori Epps, Compounding Educator, Doug’s Compounding Pharmacy

I

f you’ve ever had occasion to use a compounding pharmacy, you know that compounding offers patients individualized treatment through the use of customized medications. Since it’s a highly specialized field and not every pharmacy compounds, how do you, as a prescriber or patient, know if the pharmacy really knows how to compound? Knowing the appropriate questions to ask when choosing a compounding pharmacy is important.

Is the pharmacy licensed in your state? It seems like a basic question, but this is the first thing you should determine. Most states require that pharmacies be licensed in the state they do business in.

There are however, practices that order and use compounded prescription medications from out-of-state pharmacies. Practitioners can be liable if the pharmacy they choose to use is not licensed in the state their practice is in. You can independently verify licensing information by visiting your state’s board of pharmacy website.

Is compounding the primary focus? Compounding uses the latest pharmaceutical knowledge and requires specialized training as well as state-of-the-art equipment. Most pharmacies are simply not equipped to handle the needs of this specialty if they aren’t compounding medications on a daily basis.

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What additional training does the pharmacist have? Compounding pharmacists often seek additional training since there are specialized techniques and considerations when compounding medications. They may belong to professional organizations, such as the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA) or International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (IACP), and rely on them for additional resources including chemicals, equipment, on-going education and consulting on dosage forms and formulas.

Does the pharmacy have specialized equipment? Equipment specific to compounding may include electronic balances for accurate weighing of ingredients, electronic mortar and pestle (EMP) to thoroughly mix ingredients, ointment mills to reduce sediment once medications have been mixed and capsule machines to pack capsules for customized medications. More importantly, a quality compounding lab will have a powder hood, a specially enclosed bench to prevent contamination. The hood contains a HEPA filter and is usually constructed with no gaps or joints where particles may collect.

Does the pharmacy meet United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards? Compounding medications is a complicated process and involves many steps. The guidelines for proper preparation of a compounded medication are set forth by the USP. These standards are in chapters USP 797 and USP 795, and outline conditions and practices non-sterile(795) and sterile(797) compounding pharmacies should follow.

In addition, compounding pharmacies and pharmacists must also adhere to standards and regulations set by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy and State Boards of Pharmacy for quality assurance and accuracy.

Does the pharmacy test finished preparations to insure quality and potency? As a patient or prescriber, this is important.

Regular random sampling and testing of compounded medications for potency by an independent lab demonstrates the pharmacy’s commitment to quality.

What is the turnaround time and how are medications packaged?

No one wants to wait when they are not feeling well. Ask how medications are shipped—U.S. postal service, express mail, delivery service?

It is not unreasonable to expect to receive your medication within 24-72 hours if the pharmacy has the necessary ingredients to compound your medication. Additionally, you may want to ask about precautions taken to protect light or temperature sensitive medications, especially if they are mailed or delivered direct to you.

Do you view your pharmacist(s) as a trusted advisor? Whether you are a prescriber or patient, it’s important to know the pharmacist you select is someone you trust, who is readily available to address any questions or concerns you may have. All too often, people have no idea who is responsible for overseeing the preparation of their medications, which are often critical to their health and well-being. Your pharmacist should be accessible and take the time to answer your questions.

To learn more about compounding and customized medications, contact Doug Higgins, R.Ph., owner of Doug’s Compounding Pharmacy at 877-642-DOUG(3684) or visit their website at www.dougsrx.com.

Established in 2000, Doug’s Compounding Pharmacy serves patients throughout the state and is located at 137 N. Market Street in Paxton.

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curing breast cancer

Run For Life

By Gina Morss-Fischer, Komen Memorial Development Director

I

f you can imagine it, you can achieve it. Two-time breast cancer survivor Marilyn Evans had long imagined what it would be like to bring the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to her community in Bloomington/Normal. Evans participated in her first Komen event in 1993. After that, she was hooked. The Bloomington wife, mother, and businesswoman was instrumental in the founding of the McLean County Affiliate and became the group’s first board president. This year she is the honorary chair of the second Annual Komen Bloomington/ Normal Race for the Cure®.

“I am flattered and honored to be the honorary chair of the Bloomington/Normal Race for the Cure,” Evans said. “It is a great way to make an impact in the local fight against breast cancer.”

Sunshine, music, and lots of pink welcomed participants to the inaugural Komen Bloomington/Normal Race for the Cure last September.

The event, held on the State Farm Corporate South campus, drew 2,800 walkers and runners and raised more than $200,000 to help fund research and local community health grants. Although the Komen Memorial Affiliate is proud of that success, Executive Director Linda Maricle said the ultimate goal is to find the cures.

“We must push harder each year to reach our mission of saving lives and ending breast cancer forever,” stated Maricle. That is why Race for the Cure organizers hope to attract even more women, men, and children from around the Twin Cities to the Second Annual Bloomington/Normal Race for the Cure on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012. The 5K run and walk starts at 8 a.m. on the State Farm Corporate South campus.

Race goers will also enjoy music, food, and giveaways from sponsors like OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, and Illinois Cancer Care. Seventy-five percent of every dollar raised through the race will stay in central Illinois to fund grants for education, screening, outreach, and treatment. The other 25 percent will go to the national Komen research program. In fact, Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is the largest funder of breast cancer research outside of the federal government.

Page 32 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

Did you know that the global breast cancer movement got its start right here in Central Illinois? Susan G. Komen and her sister, Nancy G. Brinker, grew up in Peoria. As 36-year-old Suzy neared the end of her breast cancer battle, Nancy promised her sister that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982 that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Today, it is the largest grassroots network of breast cancer awareness activists who are fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all, and help science find the cures.

America’s 2.5 million breast cancer survivors, the largest group of cancer survivors, is a living testament to the power of society and science to save lives. Worldwide, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. According to the Komen Advocacy Alliance, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes and one woman will die of breast cancer every 13 minutes in the U. S. Here in the state of Illinois, an estimated 9,510 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among women this year, and 1,830 women will die of the disease. Race for the Cure participants like Marilyn Evans say it is up to each one of us to change those statistics.

Evans invites you to register for the race by going to www.komenmemorial.org. She says if you form a team with your friends and family you can multiply the fun and the impact. The dollars you raise could help save someone’s life. Last year, Komen Memorial grants helped more than 5,000 low-income, under-insured, and uninsured central Illinois women get mammograms and clinical breast exams. Research shows that early detection is the key to survival. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer, when caught early before it spreads beyond the breast, is 98 percent.

So, what will you do on Saturday, Sept. 8? Will you run? Participate in the Komen Bloomington/Normal Race for the Cure and show everyone whose life you are running for. Are you running for your mother, your sister, a co-worker, a friend? Are you running for your own life? Or are you running for the future? No matter who inspires you to run, now is the time to get involved and run for life!

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 33

balance disorders

The Four Flavors of Dizzy

By Poonam McAllister, Central Illinois Institute of Balance

A

symptom is a departure from normal function or feeling, which is noticed by a patient, indicating the presence of disease or abnormality. A symptom is subjective, observed by the patient, and cannot be measured directly.

The term “dizziness” is just a symptom and in itself does not tell us what the disease is. According to Mayo Clinic, it is one of the most common reasons that adults see their physician. It can be a very challenging problem to figure out. Because the symptom of

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dizziness can present itself with many diseases, the symptom of dizziness itself does not always identify where the problem lies.

However, the description of the symptom itself can help in directing the testing as well as treatment. Patients often experience dizziness and balance problems together, which makes it difficult to describe the sensation they are feeling.

In a Boston Globe article, Dr. Steven D. Rausch explains a method to sort out what he calls the “four flavors of dizzy.”

The first flavor is a sensation of blacking out while standing up.

This can be caused by problems of the circulatory system like low blood pressure, dehydration, or heart arrhythmias.

The second flavor is unsteadiness. This is a difficult problem to sort, as it can be associated with inner ear problems as well as with neurological problems like stroke or neuropathies.

The third flavor of dizziness is true vertigo. This is a classic symptom of inner ear problems and people describe this as a spinning sensation either of the room or a spinning sensation inside their head. However, it can also be associated with migraines, strokes, or epilepsy.

The last flavor is that of light-headedness. This is described as a feeling of weakness and fainting.

Due to the wide variety of conditions that can cause dizziness, the testing and treatment of dizziness and balance problems requires a thorough history taking with a detailed assessment of symptoms, their description, their duration, and frequency. It is also important to know what else accompanies the symptoms of dizziness, so an evaluation of dizziness and balance disorders may entail a review of multiple systems.

An accurate description of the type of dizziness you are experiencing will help your medical providers determine the proper course of treatment.

For more information, please contact the Central Illinois Institute of Balance at 309-663-4900.

Reference: Lazar, Kay. Learning to restore balance. The Boston Globe. January 16 2012. VEDA Newsletter, On the Level, Spring 2012.

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mental health

Treating Bipolar Disorder

By Dr. Anjum Bashir

B

ipolar disorder is a complex mental illness that causes extreme mood swings accompanied by extreme changes in energy, activity, sleep, and behavior. Symptoms of mania may include feeling overly happy and outgoing, jumpy, agitated, restless, or behaving impulsively. Symptoms of a depressive episode may include feeling empty, extremely tired, having trouble concentrating or making decisions, and thinking of death or even attempting suicide. These episodes may last anywhere from days to months and between episodes, many people with bipolar disorder exhibit no symptoms.

Bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose and it has no “cure”, but it can be effectively treated. An effective treatment plan is very individualized and usually includes a combination of medication and talk therapy. The main goals of treatment are to: • Help the patient gain better control of their mood swings and related symptoms • Avoid moving from one phase to another • Avoid the need for a hospital stay • Help the patient function as well as possible between episodes • Prevent self-injury and suicide • Make the episodes less frequent and severe Medications Mood stabilizing medications are usually the first choice to treat bipolar disorder. Many of these medications are anticonvulsants, which are usually used to treat seizures, but they also help control moods.

Anti-psychotic and anti-anxiety medications are sometimes used and are often taken with other medications. Antidepressant medications can be added to treat depression. However, people with bipolar disorder are more likely to have manic or hypomanic episodes if they are put on antidepressants. Because of this, antidepressants are only used for people who also take a mood stabilizer.

Everyone responds differently to medications and there can be side effects, so it is important that an experienced psychiatrist monitors patients very closely. Over the last decade, treatments have improved and there are fewer or more tolerable side effects than in the past.

Several different medications may need to be tried before the best course of treatment is found. Do not suddenly stop taking a medication as that may lead to "rebound", or worsening of bipolar disorder symptoms. A psychiatrist should always guide any changes in type or dose of medication.

Psychotherapy In addition to medication, psychotherapy, or "talk" therapy, can be very effective. Some psychotherapy treatments include: • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people with bipolar disorder learn to change harmful or negative thought patterns and behaviors.

• Family-focused therapy helps enhance family coping strategies, such as recognizing new episodes early and helping their loved one.

• Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy helps people with bipolar disorder improve their relationships with others and manage their daily routines. Regular daily routines and sleep schedules may help protect against manic episodes.

• Psychoeducation teaches people with bipolar disorder about the illness and its treatment. This treatment helps people recognize signs of relapse so they can seek treatment early before a full-blown episode occurs.

A licensed psychologist or counselor typically provides these therapies and works closely with the psychiatrist to track progress. As with medication, following the doctor's instructions for any psychotherapy will provide the greatest benefit.

Other treatments For cases in which medication and/or psychotherapy does not work, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be useful. ECT, formerly known as "shock therapy", once had a bad reputation. But in recent years, it has greatly improved and can provide relief for people with severe bipolar disorder who have not been able to feel better with other treatments.

Bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life. If not treated, it can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. Family members and caregivers are very important in the treatment as they can help patients find the right support services and make sure the patient takes medication correctly. Unfortunately, some people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated.

For more information, please contact Anjum Bashir, MD at 309-808-2326. His office is located at 205 N. Williamsburg, Suite D in Bloomington. He treats all psychiatric conditions and his office includes the services of three licensed counselors. He is also one of the few physicians in the area that utilizes TMS therapy for depression and ADHD Quotient test for ADHD/ADD. August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 35

understanding heat stroke

How Hot is Too Hot?

By Jamie Peel, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center

D

o you know when it is safe to enjoy the outdoors? In the Midwest, people are more at risk of heat-related illnesses because of the high humidity of our climate and the unpredictable summer weather. One of the most severe of these illnesses is heat stroke.

Heat stroke is the result of being extremely overheated and dehydrated. The dehydration is so severe that it decreases circulation to the brain, causing neurological problems and eventual organ failure.

Heat stroke is the last step in a three-step process. It begins with heat cramps then can progress into heat exhaustion and, in as little as an hour, can progress to heat stroke.

The process is rapid, but is able to be stopped in certain stages.

Heat exhaustion sufferers can recover by moving to cool environments and rehydrating, whereas heat stroke victims require immediate medical attention. It is important people pay attention to symptoms that indicate a heat- related illness.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms • Profuse sweating • Water depletion (causes extreme thirst) • Weakness • Dizziness • Salt depletion (causes muscle cramps) • Nausea • Vomiting • Fainting • Headache Heat Stroke Symptoms • Body temperature greater than 104° F (main sign) • No sweating in hot weather • Neurological problems such as confusion, unconsciousness, and seizures • Rapid breathing • Increased heart rate Risk Factors Hot, humid weather is the main contributing factor of heat stroke.

When our core temperature rises, our body’s blood vessels dilate, causing us to sweat. Sweat comes to the surface of the skin and evaporates, causing the body to cool. Extreme temperatures can inhibit this process. The body’s regulation becomes affected by temperature and humidity, making it harder for sweat to evaporate and cool the body.

Temperatures more than 90 degrees, combined with humidity readings more than 60 percent, are conducive of heat stroke.

Some people are at higher risk for heat stroke due to how their bodies respond to extreme heat. Children younger than four years old are at risk because their bodies are unable to regulate temperature.

People age 65 and older have the same risk because of the inability to compensate for the extreme heat. Although these two age groups are high risk, everyone is susceptible to heat stroke.

People who spend a majority of time outdoors, such as construction workers, athletes, and people who tan often, may not know how much this heat-related illness could affect them. Wearing less clothing while doing outdoor activities may seem like a good idea to stay cool, Page 36 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

but with that comes the risk of sunburn, another factor in heat stroke.

Sun-damaged skin is not able to go through the process of keeping the body cool, so it increases the likelihood of a heat stroke.

Treatment If someone is the victim of heat stroke, it is advisable to call emergency services for help, as heat stroke can be fatal if not treated. While waiting, people can care for the victim until help arrives by putting the person in an ice bath or placing bags of ice on the neck, armpits, and groin, where many blood vessels are collected. It is advised to take the victim into shade and give them proper forms of hydration like water or hydrating sports drinks.

Prevention Heat stoke is preventable. Take these steps to ensure you stay healthy in the heat: • Stay hydrated (non-alcoholic and non-caffeinated beverages).

• Know the day’s forecast (heat index and humidity).

• Plan around the heat; try doing outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening.

Heat stroke is ever-present in our climate, but understanding how our environment affects our body can help us stay safe while having fun outdoors.

For more information on heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses, please call OSF PromptCare at 309-661-6280 or visit www.osfstjoseph.org.

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prostate health

“That Surgery Can Make a Guy Impotent!”

The First in a series of excerpts from “Making Love Again” The subject matter of this book is of a personal and explicit nature, and may not be suitable for younger or ultra-conservative readers.

By Virginia and Keith Laken

I

n Making Love Again, Virginia and Keith Laken describe in intimate detail their struggle with impotence. It is their struggle, even though it is Keith’s impotence. Together they recount the various treatments, the anxious moments and the false hopes, the good sex and the bad, the cures that weren’t. And they report the corresponding rise and fall of their relationship — all with such unreserved honesty that the book is a genuine page-turner.” — Psychology Today “Are you listening to me? That surgery can make a guy impotent! There’s no way I’d risk letting that happen to me!”

“How can you say that?” I demanded, my voice becoming shrill. “How could you even think of risking your life for the sake of having sex?”

“Having sex is what makes a man a man. If a guy can’t perform, he might as well hang it up.”

“If you have cancer and you don’t get rid of it, hon, you’re going to die long before you should.” Tears began to fill my eyes for the millionth time. “Then what would happen?” I asked forlornly. “I’d be left alone. A widow. And why? Because you want to have sex!”

Keith gave me a hard stare, his blue eyes piercing.

“Gin. Listen. To. Me.” He said, punctuating each word with increasing precision. “I keep telling you. This is not just about sex.

It’s about life. What kind of life would I have if I couldn’t make love to you anymore? If I thought people didn’t respect me? What kind of life would that be?”

“Hon, I know sex is important. I understand that. But sex isn’t everything. It’s not important to me that we have sex,” I reassured him, “only that I have you.”

“That’s nice to hear!” he said sarcastically. “Well you might not care about having sex anymore Gin, but I do!” “And if my choice is to live longer and be half a man, or to live a shorter life with all my capabilities, you’d better believe I’d rather live a shorter, more fulfilling life!”

We had been shocked, in January of 1993, when the doctors had first suggested a biopsy. Keith was only forty-seven years old at the time — way too young for prostate cancer. But the blood work had indicated otherwise.

When the first biopsy came back negative, we had wanted to believe we were safe. But the experience had been so disturbing we couldn’t shake it. Especially Keith. Ever the pragmatist, he had wanted to be prepared just in case, and understand all his options. So he’d started doing some research on prostate cancer and treatment choice.

From the beginning, the two of us had looked at these options from different perspectives. I had thought any potential cancer Page 38 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

should be totally removed from Keith’s body, and thus, I only had considered surgery.

Our marriage was strong and supportive, our health good.

Never did we think that cancer would enter our lives and cause us to start arguing so vehemently. Whenever we discussed the possibility of cancer or impotence, we lost our sense of humor, digressing quickly into touchy sarcasm that made it impossible to maintain a civil discussion.

In January 1995, when it was time for Keith’s third prostate screening, we were both tired. We had been living in a kind of purgatory, enduring torturous waiting between yearly appointment, and always wondering if this time the cancer would be confirmed.

The stress and uncertainty had taken a toll on us, and we talked about making this our last appointment ever.

Dr. Barrett made a few notes in Keith’s chart, and then looked at us. The results, he said, were alarming. Not only had Keith’s PSA level risen once more, but Dr. Barrett could now feel a nodule on Keith’s prostate. Sure enough, he suggested the dreaded third biopsy.

Keith refused. Emphatically. The physician reviewed the important factors of prostate cancer for both of us, emphasizing the high death rate. “Please reconsider,” added Dr. Barrett.

We didn’t stay long after that. Keith quickly assured the physician he would think about “everything,” and promised to call within the week with his decision.

The day after the appointment, our daughter phoned from her home in Washington State. She could tell that I was upset.

“What’s wrong, Mom?” she asked in a worried voice.

I broke down immediately. “It’s your Dad. They’re almost positive he has cancer, and he says he won’t have a third biopsy! Says he’s sick of the whole thing! Then there’s treatment. Your father’s so afraid of becoming impotent; he’d rather die than have surgery!

What if he does have cancer?” I managed to gasp. “His concern over keeping his sex life is going to kill him!”

“Mom, do you remember the conversation you had with Steven and me when we were teenagers about how we should feel about sex? It seemed so important to you that we learn to truly appreciate it. You said we should think of sex as a chance to give and receive pleasure through our bodies.” Beth continued. “I remember you saying, ‘Never be ashamed or embarrassed about your sex drive.

Treasure it as a beautiful gift.’ Do you remember that talk, Mom?” Of course I remembered that talk almost 10 years earlier. Talking to the children like that had been such a turning point in my own life.

I had been raised to be a “good girl” where sex was concerned.

My conservative, religious parents had instilled in me a belief that

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sex was wrong before marriage, after which, it became miraculously all right. Consequently, when Keith and I married at the age of 21 I was shy and hesitant in my sexual behavior, and certainly inexperienced.

Keith was different. He was liberal, daring, and anxious to experiment. Keith thought of sex as a natural pat of being human, and something we should never hesitate to enjoy. Our two very different views about sex had sometimes caused problems in our marriage. Until the day I had had “that talk” with the children.

It had been such an awakening to hear myself. What a revelation it had been to discover that I had mentally adopted Keith’s beliefs, but had never actually put them into practice.

“Yes, I remember, Beth. As a matter of fact, it was after that talk with you and Steven that I decided to be more open about sex myself.”

I thought about how proud I was for doing that. For changing. For being more open to experimenting. For not holding back so much. In the last ten years, our sex life had become much more satisfying to both of us, mostly because I had been willing to change. Sex was more exciting now than it had ever been. And we expected it to only get better.

When I got off the phone, I thought again about how important sex really was in our marriage. For the first time, I felt some empathy for Keith’s fears — and hesitantly acknowledged to myself that it might be hard to give up what we now had.

But still, I couldn’t go so far as to agree that Keith shouldn’t have this biopsy — or surgery if he needed it!

In the end, Keith did agree to have a third biopsy. Two weeks later, the procedure was performed. Cells were extracted and sent to the pathologist. Once again, we were left waiting for the results, wondering if our lives would be forever changed.

We had stopped arguing, at least for the time being. Now we were just holding our breath.

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exercise

Switch On Your Skinny, Healthy Genes

By Michael Roizen, MD, and Mehmet Oz, MD

W

hat can you do to become faster than a speeding bullet at protecting your heart, more powerful than a locomotive at preventing diabetes, cancer, and a jiggly middle? Your Superman skill is…exercise. New evidence shows that by moving your body, you can turn on specific genes and make your life better (less disease, less disability, more vigor).

Yep, the big news is that exercise does way more than torching that breakfast burrito and toning your rear view. A new Swedish study of inactive people who started exercising found using your muscles activates genes that promote fat burning, prevent Page 40 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

disease and disability—and boosts energy and brainpower. The benefits kick in within minutes of your first steps—so you win every time you move, whether it's a lunchtime stroll, an all-day bike ride or dancing to your favorite tunes. In fact, the study has experts around the world agreeing with us YOU Docs: Physical activity is great and enjoyable medicine; we like to call it Lifestyle Medicine.

This "gene therapy" isn't science fiction. We're not talking about freaky DNA changes that'll boost your IQ 100 points or transform you into a leaping lizard. Your basic genetic code, handed down from your ancestors (thanks, Mom and Dad!), stays the same.

Whether the genes are turned on or not is apparently up to you.

Not all genes are active. You have the power to turn on the good guys and tone down the not-so-helpful types. Some of the geneflipping benefits from exercise are: • M ega-protection against cancer. Exercise revs up over 100 genes that guard against cancer. For instance, three hours of activity a week boosts 109 protect-you-from-cancer genes and squelches 75 cancer-promoting genes in guys with low-grade prostate cancer.

• M ore fat-burning brown fat. Exercise activates the genes that boost levels of a newly discovered hormone called irisin. This stuff turns bumpy, bulgy white fat into easier-to-use brown fat.

That's good news, because brown fat may help protect against diabetes and obesity.

• A younger heart. Physical activity turns on genes that help heart-muscle cells divide; this helps your heart work better and protects against heart failure.

• A leaner, cleaner liver. Sticking with a regular exercise routine turns off genes that encourage extra fat to move into your liver, and turns on genes that produce proteins that tell this fat invader to pack up and leave. That's big news, because today one in three adults has a fatty liver; slimming it down protects against diabetes and heart disease.

But guess what? Exercise isn't your only tool for do-it-yourself genetic engineering. A diet devoid of the five food felons (saturated fat, trans fat, added sugar, syrup and any grain that isn't 100 percent whole), plus managing your stress, keeps the disease-fighting and

energy-giving genes turned on, too. Combine those with exercise, and you can switch on a whopping 500 healthy genes. Here's how: • Aim for 30 minutes a day. The guys who walked or otherwise worked out for a half-hour, six days a week in addition to following a smart, produce-packed diet, actually switched on hundreds of healthy genes after three months. But remember, the benefits begin within minutes of your first move; you don't have to wait until you've lost weight or inches to get real health benefits.

• A dd good-for-your-genes goodies. And that would be… plenty of fruit, vegetables, 100 percent whole grains, plus DHA omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein like soy or skinless chicken breast, or healthy protein like walnuts or Macadamia nuts. A steady diet of full-fat dairy, red meat, sugar and syrups, and fried foods, turn on energy-sapping, killer genes.

• Say ahhhh. Daily stress-soothers like yoga, meditation and calm breathing are part of the good-gene prescription. But you can substitute anything else that tames tension from simple stretching to laughing with your spouse, kids or grandkids.

• L ove coffee? Have a cup. No kidding! A venti latte's no replacement for a power walk, but it turns out that straight black java also switches on your good genes.

Mehmet Oz, MD is host of "The Dr. Oz Show," and Mike Roizen, MD is Chief Medical Officer at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute. For more information, go to www.RealAge.com. (c) 2012 Michael Roizen, MD and Mehmet Oz, MD. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 41

kick the habit

What Are E-Cigs?

By Joen Lane

E

veryone knows that smoking is horrible for your health and is the direct cause of many diseases. Smoking is expensive, it smells, it harms the people around you, and is prohibited almost everywhere, making you a “prisoner in your own home.”

Ask any smoker if they want to quit, and nearly all of them will give a resounding YES,YES, YES! Almost every smoker has tried to quit without success, some have tried everything from hypnosis and acupuncture to counseling, patches, and gum. Quitting is hard for many reasons, but primarily because the nicotine in cigarettes is addictive—highly addictive.

Many smokers try to quit by using nicotine replacement therapies such as the patch, inhaler, nasal spray or gum which gradually reduces the amount of nicotine to help ease the physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Electronic cigarettes or E-cigs, are a relatively recent invention that can also help smokers kick their nicotine addiction.

Electronic cigarettes look similar to conventional cigarettes and simulate the act of smoking but there is no tobacco or smoke involved. They are battery-operated and turn nicotine into a vapor that looks and tastes like smoke and is inhaled or “vaped” by the

user. There are many different brands of electronic cigarettes, but they all consist of three main parts. The cartridge acts as the mouthpiece and holds the liquid to be vaporized, the atomizer is the heating element that vaporizes the liquid, and a rechargeable battery is the power supply.

Unlike other nicotine replacement therapies electronic cigarettes allow the smoker to continue enjoying the habit and mental associations with smoking that can be as hard to break as the physical addiction. Electronic cigarettes feel like you’re smoking a cigarette, but the cartridge controls the amount of nicotine so you can gradually decrease the amount that is inhaled. Once you’ve eliminated the dependence on nicotine, you can continue to “smoke” nicotine-free vapor that also comes in many flavors like coffee or chocolate, while you work to eliminate entirely the experience and rituals of smoking.

Electronic cigarettes are often marketed as an alternative to smoking rather than as a way to quit smoking. There is some controversy over E-cigs, because they are not regulated as a tobacco product, yet they still deliver nicotine. However, there is no question that they are a better alternative than conventional cigarettes.

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Electronic cigarettes do not contain the thousands of other poisonous chemicals found in tobacco, they cost much less, they don’t smell, and they just may be the tool that will help you quit smoking forever.

For more information about Electronic Cigarettes and how they can help you stop smoking, you may contact Joen Lane at 309-662-6298. Joen is an ex-smoker and is conducting free seminars on how to help other people kick the habit for good.

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 43

when they come home

Helping Military Families Prepare for Reunions Tools to Help Parents and Children with Resilience, Recovery, and Reconnecting

W

ith the ongoing drawdown of service members from Afghanistan, military families are preparing for the return of loved ones. The homecoming of a service member can be very exciting, but it is also a significant transition that affects the entire family—especially children.

Fortunately, military families don’t have to face this transition alone. The Real Warriors Campaign (www.realwarriors.net) offers support for families throughout the deployment cycle. The campaign, an initiative of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE), promotes the processes of building resilience, facilitating recovery, and supporting reintegration for returning service members, veterans, and their families.

With tips from the Real Warriors Campaign, families can prepare for the excitement and potential challenges of a parent’s return home.

Communicate: Prior to a homecoming, it is important for parents or caregivers to communicate with their children and remind them that, just as they have grown and changed during the course of a deployment, it is likely that their parent has also had new experiences. By talking about some of these changes before the reunion, families can reduce the anxieties of a homecoming.

Real Warriors Campaign volunteer Sheri Hall experienced the challenges of reintegration firsthand when her husband, Army Maj. Jeff Hall, returned from his second deployment. She advises military families to communicate as openly as possible. “Encourage children to be vocal—to tell their families what’s bothering them,” Hall said.

As children open up, be prepared for a range of emotions. It is important for parents to remain calm and understanding while listening to their children’s concerns.

Be Patient: Military families experience a natural adjustment period after deployment, during which children may experience excitement, as well as nervousness and anxiety. Families can ease concerns by taking time to get to know each other and routines again. Maj. Hall advises returning service members to be open to change during this transition. “Returning from deployment can be challenging.

It’s important to be patient and remember some things may have Page 44 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter

changed while you were gone. Take time to get to know your family again,” Maj. Hall says.

Anticipate Change: During the course of a deployment, new family schedules and routines may have developed. For returning parents, it is important to remain open and flexible and learn the family’s new dynamic. It is also important for the entire family to help the returning service member adjust to changes that have occurred.

Homecomings are an important time for all military families, and communication, patience, and flexibility help pave the way for a positive transition to reconnect with loved ones.

For more tools, tips and resources for military families, visit the Real Warriors Campaign online at www.realwarriors.net or contact the DCoE Outreach Center to talk with trained health resource consultants for assistance 24/7 by calling 866-966-1020. More information and resources are also available at the DCoE website at www.dcoe.health.mil.

Source: The Real Warriors Campaign

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August 2012 — Bloomington — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 45

healthy babies

The Amazing Journey to Table Foods This is the final in a three-part series on transitioning your baby from formula/breastmilk to solid table foods during their first 15 months

By Abbey Fairbanks, MS, CCC-SLP/L, Pediatric Speech & Feeding Therapist

I

t is currently recommended to introduce solid foods at six months of age, unless otherwise specified by your pediatrician. Previous articles have discussed some “pre-feeding” activities, tips for introducing baby’s first experience with a spoon, purees and mashed table food. Let’s continue our journey to table food.

9-11 months: Finger foods A great way to try out a finger food and make sure it is safe for baby is for you to first try it out. Put the food in your own mouth and using only your tongue, can you mash it? Does it break apart into little pieces or stay cohesive in your mouth? Is it fairly easy to control? Does it dissolve with saliva or does it require chewing? We are looking for meltable, soft foods that are easily managed, dissolve with saliva, require limited effort and do not break apart posing a possible choking issue. Gerber Puffs are a perfect example of what a finger food should look like, and also, do, once in your mouth. When introducing them, try to place the first piece on the side of baby’s mouth vs. in the front. This will promote tongue lateralization and later chewing. Show baby how to eat the finger food. Show baby how to dip finger food into a familiar puree that is on their tray (i.e., puffs dipped in pear puree). Pair the familiar foods with the new unfamiliar foods (i.e., the new finger food with a familiar puree). A snack time can now be introduced after p.m. nap. Snack time should be a time to explore new finger foods.

12-13 months: Shift to table foods At 12 months, baby should be having chopped table foods, lumpy purees, soft cooked vegetables, soft fruits in small pieces, and whole milk. Now is the time that you should begin to modify your own meals to fit into baby’s requirements. For example, if you are having chicken fajitas for dinner you need to feed baby the same meal, but change it to make it easier for baby to handle.

• Separate the ingredients so that they are in single form. Eating all those ingredients together in a shell would be way too challenging at this age.

• Put the cheese on the tray • Put the black beans on the tray • Cut the avocado into cube form for baby • Chop the chicken and perhaps add a little ranch for dipping if baby is familiar with ranch • Take skin off of green, red and orange peppers and cut into pieces appropriate for baby • Cut up the soft shell into manageable pieces for baby Congratulations, you did it! You modified chicken fajitas and baby is officially eating table foods. I might even add a side of applesauce for some fruit. Baby has a protein, starch, vegetable, fruit, and don’t forget the whole milk since they are now 12 months old! From this point on your goal is for baby to eat a modified version of your meals, making sure to include a protein, starch, fruit/vegetable, and whole milk at every meal three times per day along with two snacks consisting of water, fruit/vegetable, and a starch and/or protein.

Remember to wait until after the first birthday and baby has full set of teeth to offer apple chunks or slices, grapes, hot dogs, sausages, popcorn, nuts, seeds, round candies and hard chunks of uncooked vegetables as these can be choking hazards. When in doubt, always ask your pediatrician if a food is appropriate prior to giving it to baby.

Abbey Fairbanks is a Speech Pathologist with Easter Seals PeoriaBloomington. She will be teaching “Feeding Baby: Birth – 15 months” this summer at Heartland Community College. For more information, please call 309-268-8160.

Page 46 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington ­— August 2012

body image

Disordered Eating and

Children at Risk

By Jim Strauss, LCPC, Collaborative Solutions Institute

V

isual images bombard our senses daily making it “normal” for us to despise our bodies. Media messages reveal the values our culture associates with thinness…power, control, wealth, popularity, sexual advantage…the list goes on. And who is at greatest risk for absorbing these myths as truths? The answer of course is our kids…the most vulnerable among us.

A negative body image can have devastating consequences for teens or pre-teens. Fragile self-esteem and hormonal changes are a dangerous combination. This is a time in a child’s life to become aware of the wisdom of the developing body with it’s cycles and natural balances. Sadly, for many children, it is a time they choose to be at war with their bodies and have an unhealthy consequential relationship with food.

A “relationship” with food…what a thought! Human relationship qualities such as trustworthiness, comfort, support, acceptance, etc., can somehow be unhealthily transferred to food. After all, food never back talks, it delivers satisfaction and pleasure and is consistently reliable. Like a good friend…food is always there.

Likewise, negative attributes can also be applied. Food can be a way to prove a point, whether consciously or unconsciously;“…I’m not going to swallow this anymore”…“I’m tired of being controlled… nobody can make me eat!”…“I don’t deserve to be well.”

Disordered eating should be approached as a symptom of a larger problem. Typically, it is never only weight that is the matter but a combination of emotional issues that may include struggles with power and control, shame, fear, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, obsessivecompulsive thinking, substance abuse, or low self-esteem. It is also important to realize that the family is suffering as a whole and the needs of one impact the others. The family system is in need of attention.

Parents Helping Children Avoid Eating-Disorders Parents can head off major problems later in their child’s life by beginning early to teach scrutiny of media messages and peer definitions of what is the “right” body image for “success”. Emphasize inner qualities over outer ones, model good nutrition, exercise, and loving acceptance for oneself “as-is”, imperfections and all. Avoid rigidly imposed diets that trigger serious problems of hiding, secrecy, shame and failure for not performing perfectly. Focus on moderation, not extremism…enjoyment not punishment. Exercise for fitness, not for guilt due to overindulgence.

Check Your Own “fattitudes” Do you constantly make negative remarks about your own body appearance? Are critical remarks regularly made about other people’s appearance communicating disgust and disapproval? Remember, family influence weighs heavily among other contributing factors such as genes, the media and peer pressure. However, it is important to note that even children from wonderfully loving homes with supportive involved parents are vulnerable to disordered eating.

Take Action Don’t be caught saying, “Why did I wait so long?” Early intervention and treatment is crucial to prevent serious medical problems resulting from anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. Don’t wait for your child to volunteer for help. Resistance is typically strong. Seek professional counsel on how to best approach your child. Recognize the possibility exists you may have to take them against their will. It is not unusual for a youngster to adapt to counseling once the “over-the-hump” experience of the fear of the unknown is behind them.

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August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 47

healthy feet

Bunions, Bumps, and Hammertoes

By Sam Fowler, PMAC, Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates

S

andal season is in full swing—closed toed boots and shoes are in the deep dark depths of your closet, while peep toes and sandals are main stage in your wardrobe. With this must have summer accessory, many people may feel uncomfortable with the extra skin showing, especially if they have bunions or hammertoes.

What is a bunion/hammertoe?

A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This pressure forces the big toe to bend toward the others, causing a painful bump on the outside of the foot. A bunion can also occur on the outside of the little toe, which is known as a Tailor’s Bunion.

A hammertoe is a toe that is bent at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. This

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(309) 663-6461 Page 48 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

condition is most common on the second-fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. There are two different types of hammertoes, flexible hammertoes that are moveable at the joint and rigid hammertoes that are immobile.

How do I get a bunion/hammertoe?

Bunions and hammertoes are both caused by the way we walk, our inherited foot type, foot injuries, foot deformities, and/or our shoe gear. Both conditions are more common in women because wearing shoes that are too tight or squeeze the toes together is a common cause.

How do you treat a bunion/hammertoe?

Treatment options vary with the type and severity of each bunion or hammertoe, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important in avoiding surgery. You should make an appointment to see your podiatrist at the first indication of pain or discomfort because if left untreated, bunions and hammertoes tend to get larger and more painful, making nonsurgical treatment less of an option.

The primary goal of treatment is to relieve pressure on the joint and halt the progression of the deformity. Treatments include: • Padding and Taping: Often this is the first step in a treatment plan. Padding the bunion or hammertoe minimizes pain and allows the patient to continue a normal, active life. Taping may change the imbalance around the toes and thus relieve the stress and pain.

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections can be prescribed to ease acute pain and inflammation caused by the joint deformity.

• Orthotic Devices: Custom inserts made from your arch prescription can offload the painful area and prevent worsening of the deformity.

• Surgical Options: If pain is still present after trying conservative treatments, several surgical options are available to relieve pressure and repair the toe joint. The surgery will remove the bony enlargement, restore the normal alignment of the toe joint, and relieve pain. Recovery takes time, and swelling and some discomfort are common for several weeks following surgery.

Remember, foot pain is not normal! Healthy, pain-free feet are a key to your independence. At the first sign of pain, or any noticeable changes in your feet, seek professional podiatric medical care. Your feet must last a lifetime, and most Americans log an amazing 75,000 miles on their feet by the time they reach age 50. Regular foot care can make sure your feet are up to the task. With proper detection, intervention, and care, most foot and ankle problems can be lessened or prevented.

If you think you have a bunion, hammertoe or other foot ailment, contact Dr. Melissa Lockwood at Heartland Foot and Ankle by calling 309-661-9975 or visiting www.HeartlandFootAndAnkle.com.

your last diet

More Than Counting Calories

By Joen Lane, Ideal Protein, Certified Weight Loss Professional

W

ouldn’t it be nice if there was a magic bullet to lose weight without changing our eating habits? Despite the advertisements, none exists. We eat on the run, stopping by the drive through or grabbing a pre-measured 100-calorie pack. Isn’t counting calories enough?

It’s not. Experts now know it’s not just how much we eat, what we consume counts, too. People who are overweight generally have insulin levels that are out of whack from too many refined sugars and starches. Breads, pasta, salty snacks, and sweet treats can overwork the pancreas, which must constantly pump out insulin to take care of all the sugar in the blood. A high protein diet with low carbohydrates and fat will regulate the pancreas and blood sugar levels, which helps to burn fat and maintain muscle.

People aren’t going to buy pre-packaged food the rest of their lives, which is why the Ideal Protein program also includes healthy recipe books to help people learn to prepare new dishes and not get bored with the same things each week. The following recipes are from the Ideal Protein cookbook and are a nice change from what most people prepare on a regular basis.

Put mushrooms with scallops in the bowl and add cucumber balls.

Mix vinegar with olive oil and season to taste (marjoram, sea salt and ground pepper). Pour on scallop salad, mix to coat and serve on a bed of lettuce. Serves 4. Calories per serving 332/Fat 12g/Protein 30g/ Carbohydrate 13g Note: Make sure to sear scallops over high heat. Avoid simmering or slow cooking. Keep them really warm while you complete preparation.

Halibut with Picante Sauce

Spicy Scallops 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 1/2 lb fresh scallops, cleaned and sliced 3 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped 1 lb fresh mushrooms cut in quarters 36 balls of seedless cucumber

Lettuce leaves, mesclun or salad mix Dressing 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 3/4 cup olive oil

Dried marjoram, sea salt and ground pepper In a skillet, heat up oil over high heat. Add scallops and sear for 1 min on each side. Add basil, garlic, jalapeno pepper and season.

Fry for 1 min. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside in a bowl.

Add mushrooms to the skillet and brown for 3 min over high heat.

2 cucumbers, seeded and finely chopped 2 radishes, finely chopped 4 tomatoes, seeded and finely chopped 1 grilled sweet yellow pepper, finely chopped 1/8 red onion finely chopped 1/2 tsp Tabasco 1 tbsp lemon juice

Sea salt to taste 4 halibut steaks or fillets Mix cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, sweet pepper, onion, Tabasco, sea salt, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Roast fish on oiled baking sheet (about 5 min on each side at 375 degrees or on barbecue, over medium heat, about 5 min on each side). Serve with picante sauce.

Serves 4. Per Serving: Calories 254/lipides/Fat 8g/Protein 34g/Carbohydrate 8g Note: There is a wide range of firm white fish that is perfect for barbecue cooking (swordfish, tilapia, shark, marlin and mahi-mahi, among other delicious choices). Be careful not to overcook them; lean fish have a tendency to get dry.

For more information on the Ideal Protein medically designed weight loss method, you may contact Joen Lane at 309-662-6298 or e-mail: idealweightlossofbmg.nor@gmail.com. Joen offers a complimentary consultation and educational seminars are held every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

August 2012 — Bloomington ­— Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 49

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Center

 ACR accredited in MRI, CT, PET/CT,

Ultrasound, Mammography and Breast MRI  Full fledged multi-modality imaging center  Convenient parking  Imaging Studies interpreted by board

certified, subspeãalty trained radiologists  Results in a timely manner to your doctor  Saturday appointments available

Why wait one week, or one more day, to get the MRI and CT results your doctor needs now?

GALE KEERAN

Center for Women

2200 Ft. Jesse Rd

Suite 130

309.452.9001

Mon-Fri 7am-4:30pm

FT. JESSE

Imaging Center

2200 Ft. Jesse Rd Suite 120

309.454.5552 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

www.ftjesse.org Page 50 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Bloomington — August 2012

RECLAIM YOUR LIFE! Say Goodbye to Depression

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression

the phone. I felt as if my life was over with. I finally decided to start the TMS and I feel great. It has been a long time since I have felt this good, I thank Dr. Bashir & Lori” -TMS Patient since September, 2009

Anjum Bashir, MD Psychiatry 205 N. Williamsburg Dr. Suite D, Bloomington, IL

309-808-2326

Find out more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) today!

 Bloomington Rehabilitation Associates treat medical conditions that can cause pain or limit function.

• Sports Injury • Workplace Injury • Stroke Rehabilitation • Spinal Cord Injury • Chronic Pain • Brain Injury • Arthritis • Cerebral Palsy • Multiple Sclerosis • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

1015 S. Mercer Ave. B l o o m i n g t o n Also called a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, a physiatrist provides a full spectrum of care from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation to restore maximum health and quality of life.

A Central Illinois Premier Physiatrist Practice

309.662.7500 877.566.3879 www.cinhs.com

EXPERIENCED CARE f o r your heart,

CONVENIENTLY CLOSE t o your home.

Getting cardiac care quickly is key to improving your chances of recovery. That’s why it’s so important that Advocate BroMenn Medical Center’s award-winning care is nearby, in your neighborhood. It’s all part of our commitment to eliminate heart disease from our patients’ lives. Our hearts beat as one.

Know your risk factors. To find an Advocate physician, call 1.855.ONE.HEART (1.855.663.4327) or visit InspiringMedicine.com/heart