Dec14/Jan15 Healthy Cells Magazine Phoenix edition

Page 1

VALLEY OF THE SUN

east valley area

Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

DEC/JAN 2015

FREE

HealthyCells

®

www.healthycellsmagazine.com

M A G A Z I N E

• Nutritional

TANKCHAIR Developed From Adversity, Delivering Independence

Battling Holiday Grief Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Know the Difference for Best Treatment Steps to Protect Your Medical Identity


Cunningham

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I n - H o m e

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letter from the owner

I

t’s hard to believe that 2014 is coming to an end. As we age, the years seem to go by so much faster. Remember when we were kids, it felt like each year lasted an eternity? But why? One theory has to do with the number of new experiences a child has compared to an adult, who does the same job day after day, following the same routine, except for the occasional weekend event or vacation. For a child, each day is often a new learning experience, the opportunity to see and do something they haven’t done before; they are creating new memories daily. Another thought is the comparison of time lived thus far. As a 5-year-old child, one year represents one fifth or 20 percent of their life, but compared to someone 50 years old, it’s only 1/50 or 2 percent of their life and experiences, a much smaller portion. Another explanation may be that children live in the moment; they have more tendencies to enjoy the activity they are involved in and nothing else. As adults, we tend to worry about what’s coming at us tomorrow, next week, and next month. Are we actually causing the illusion that time is flying by because we don’t focus on the present? Present: do you define it as the current moment in time, an acknowledgement of your attendance, or a gift? As children, Christmas is eagerly anticipated. Each day leading up to Christmas seems to last forever. But for adults, the time flies past, so much to do, work, parties, shopping, cooking, wrapping gifts, etc. and not enough time to get it all done. Time is a gift, so spend it wisely making memories that last forever. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,

“Time is a gift, so spend it wisely making memories that last forever.”

Monica Tegg/Owner Healthy Cells Magazine ®, East Valley Monica@healthycellsmagazine.com www.healthycellsmagazine.com/phx 480-204-3090

Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3


DEC/JAN

2015 Volume 3, Issue 1

5

Improving Limb Movement: Parkinson’s Disease: What is LSVT BIG?

6

Physical: Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Know the Difference for Best Treatment

8

Emotional: PTSD? Yes, There is Help!

10

Nutritional: Spices of the Holidays

12

Discerning Possessions: The Upside of Downsizing

13

Holistic Health: Can Essential Oils Aid in Weight Loss?

17

Policy Guidance: Shopping for Medicare Plans? Choose a Broker

18

Range of Motion: How to Get Your Backswing Back, Part II

19

Emotional Self-Care: Battling Holiday Grief

20

Mindless Eating: How the Science of Peak Performance can Help You Reach Weight-Loss Goals

22

Healthy Lifestyle Regimen: What Your Hair Says About Your Health

23

Choosing Wisely: How About Them Apples?

24

Medical News: Tissue Bank Started to Better Study and Treat Cancer

25

Rising Identity Theft: Steps to Protect Your Medical Identity

This Month’s Cover Story:

Tankchair:

Developed From Adversity, Delivering Independence page 14

For advertising information, contact Monica Tegg, owner, Valley of the Sun Edition Cell: 480-204-3090 • Fax: 309-691-2187 PO Box 6233, Chandler, AZ 85246 monica@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine® is a division of: 1327 E. Kelly Ave., Peoria Heights, IL 61616 • Ph: 309-681-4418 • Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com 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 East Valley. 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 health care 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 in high traffic locations throughout the East Valley, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine® welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the East Valley area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.


improving limb movement

Parkinson’s Disease What is LSVT BIG? Submitted by Tonya Becker, PT, DPT, Spooner Physical Therapy

L

SVT BIG® focuses on improving limb movement in people with Parkinson disease. It was developed based on principles of LSVT LOUD®, a speech treatment developed beginning in 1987. LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) LOUD® is a standardized, research-based speech treatment protocol with established efficacy for Parkinson disease. LSVT LOUD trains the single target of vocal loudness to help people with PD improve the volume of their voice to more normal levels. Research on LSVT LOUD has demonstrated improvements not only in vocal loudness, but also in articulation, vocal quality, intonation and reduced rate. Through intensive training, participants must be taught how to produce a louder, more normal voice, and their sensory perceptual system must also be “recalibrated” so that they recognize and accept the correct amount of effort needed to produce normal volume speech in daily life. More recently, LSVT BIG treatment was derived directly from LSVT LOUD. LSVT BIG is a standardized, research-based physical and occupational therapy protocol. LSVT BIG differs from other forms of physical or occupational therapy in Parkinson’s disease in its training of movement amplitude (bigness of movements) as a single treatment parameter. LSVT BIG is a high effort, intensive treatment with a focus

on recalibrating sensory perception of normal amplitude of movements. Specifically, the training is focused on improving amplitude of limb and body movements (Bigness), which also assists with improved speed (upper/lower limbs), balance, and quality of life. LSVT BIG must be delivered by an LSVT BIG Certified physical or occupational therapist. Treatment is administered in 16 sessions over a single month (four individual 60-minute sessions per week). This protocol was developed specifically to address the unique movement impairments for people with Parkinson’s disease. The protocol is both intensive and complex, with many repetitions of core movements that are used in daily living. This type of practice is necessary to optimize learning and carry-over of your better movement into everyday life! Start exercising now — as soon as possible. Sometimes physicians do not refer their patients to therapy programs at diagnosis because medications are generally effective early on at improving movement, and changes in function tend to be less severe. Yet, according to a recent survey, it is at the time of diagnosis that patients often begin to consider lifestyle changes and seek education about conventional and complementary/alternative treatment options. Thus referrals to exercise, wellness programs and speech/physical/occupational therapy would be best initiated at diagnosis, when it may have the most impact on quality of life. For more information, please contact Tonya Becker, PT, DPT at Spooner Physical Therapy-Sun Lakes. She can be reached by phone at 480-802-7081 or stop by the clinic located at 10325 E. Riggs Road, Suite 102, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. An excellent resource for additional information is www.lsvtglobal.com/patient-resources. Source: lsvtglobal.com

Partnering with people. Limitless opportunity for growth! Infinite Healing and Wellness LLC is a collaborative counseling practice designed to serve children, families, teens, adults, couples. We also cater to first responders, military veterans, and their families. Practitioners provide comprehensive treatment to address various mental health care concerns. From intake to treatment completion, our clients feel that they are valued, become empowered and know they are cared for by our team.

Assisting clients with the following: • PTSD • Trauma related symptoms • Troubled relationships • Sexual problems • Divorce • Sex addiction • Anxiety • Alcohol and drug abuse • Depression • Partner Betrayal

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480-448-1076 info@infinitehw.com Infinitehealingandwellness.com

Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5


physical

Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Know the Difference for Best Treatment Submitted by Sheriolyn Curry, CSA, Comfort Keepers Inc., Chandler

Y

ou’re feeling pretty lousy. You’ve got sniffles, sneezing, and a sore throat. Is it a cold, flu, or allergies? It can be hard to tell them apart because they share so many symptoms. But understanding the differences will help you choose the best treatment. “If you know what you have, you won’t take medications that you don’t need, that aren’t effective, or that might even make your symptoms worse,” says NIH’s Dr. Teresa Hauguel, an expert on infectious diseases that affect breathing. Cold, flu, and allergy all affect your respiratory system, which can make it hard to breathe. Each condition has key symptoms that set them apart. Colds and flu are caused by different viruses. “As a rule of thumb, the symptoms associated with the flu are more severe,” says Hauguel.

Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

Symptoms

Cold

Flu

Airborne Allergy

Fever

Rare

Usual, 100-102 °F, or higher, (especially in young children); lasts 3-4 days

Never

Headache

Uncommon

Common

Uncommon

General Aches, Pains

Slight

Usual; often severe

Never

Fatigue, Weakness

Sometimes

Usual, can last up to 3 weeks

Sometimes

Extreme Exhaustion

Never

Usual, at the beginning of the illness

Never

Stuffy, Runny Nose,

Common

Sometimes

Common

Sneezing

Usual

Sometimes

Usual

Sore Throat

Common

Sometimes

Sometimes

Cough

Common

Common, can become severe

Sometimes

Chest Discomfort

Mild to moderate

Common

Rare, except for those with allergic asthma

Duration

Up to 2 weeks

1-2 weeks

Last as long as allergens are present

Treatment

Get plenty of rest. Stay hydrated. (Drink plenty of fluids.) Decongestants Aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen for aches and pains

Get plenty of rest. Stay hydrated. Aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen for aches, pains, and fever Antiviral medicines (see your doctor)

Avoid allergens (things that you’re allergic to) Antihistamines, nasal steroids, decongestants

Prevention

Wash your hands often. Avoid close contact with anyone who has a cold.

Get the flu vaccine each year. Wash your hands often. Avoid close contact with anyone who has the flu.

Avoid allergens, such as pollen, house dust mites, mold, pet dander, cockroaches.

Complications

Sinus infection middle ear infection, asthma

Bronchitis, pneumonia; can be lifethreatening

Sinus infection, middle ear infection, asthma

Both illnesses can lead to a runny, stuffy nose; congestion; cough; and sore throat. But the flu can also cause high fever that lasts for 3-4 days, along with a headache, fatigue, and general aches and pain. These symptoms are less common when you have a cold. “Allergies are a little different, because they aren’t caused by a virus,” Hauguel explains. “Instead, it’s your body’s immune system reacting


“Read medicine labels carefully — the warnings, side effects, dosages. If you have questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have children who are sick,” to a trigger, or allergen, which is something you’re allergic to.” If you have allergies and breathe in things like pollen or pet dander, the immune cells in your nose and airways may overreact to these harmless substances. Your delicate respiratory tissues may then swell, and your nose may become stuffed up or runny. “Allergies can also cause itchy, watery eyes, which you don’t normally have with a cold or flu,” Hauguel adds. Allergy symptoms usually last as long as you’re exposed to the allergen, which may be about six weeks during pollen seasons in the spring, summer, or fall. Colds and flu rarely last beyond two weeks.

Most people with a cold or flu recover on their own without medical care. But check with a health care provider if symptoms last beyond 10 days or if symptoms aren’t relieved by over-the-counter medicines. For more about when to see a doctor, go to CDC’s Flu Page: www.cdc.gov/flu. To treat colds or flu, get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. If you have the flu, pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can reduce fever or aches. Allergies can be treated with antihistamines or decongestants. Be careful to avoid “drug overlap” when taking medicines that list two or more active ingredients on the label. For example, if you take two different drugs that contain acetaminophen — one for a stuffy nose and the other for headache — you may be getting too much acetaminophen. “Read medicine labels carefully — the warnings, side effects, dosages. If you have questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have children who are sick,” Hauguel says. “You don’t want to overmedicate, and you don’t want to risk taking a medication that may interact with another.” Treatment depends on which you have. A health professional can help you choose the best therapy. Comfort Keepers of Chandler provides all levels of care and a wide variety of services. Caregivers are certified and have on-going training to give them the all the skills to be the best caregiver they can be. For additional information, call 480-659-9201, visit www.comfortkeepers.com or email chandler@comfortkeepers.com. Se habla español. Source: newsinhealth.nih.gov/issue/oct2014/feature2 Photo credit: Kmonroe2/iStock

Shoebox Ministry Restoring dignity to the homeless since 1988.

Shoebox’s Annual Holiday Sock Drive for the Homeless

Thank you to all who donated to shoebox’s annual holiday sock drive for the homeless. Shoebox Ministry is a non-profit, service organization providing toiletries and socks to the homeless all year. www.shoeboxministry.org • info@shoeboxministry.org • 480-905-1610. Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7


emotional

PTSD? Yes, There is Help! By Kelly O’Horo, Certified EMDR Clinician, Infinite Healing & Wellness LLC.

I

n recent news we have been sadly reminded of how tragically a life can end when post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is left untreated. Officer Craig Tiger, a Phoenix police officer, took his life in November this year. It is most unfortunate that PTSD, which is much more common than most people are aware, is still seen as a sign of weakness or as a mental disorder. Some people adapt to stressful situations by “pulling up their boot straps” and moving on; however, if we don’t first address our soaking wet socks before we pull up our proverbial boot straps, the consequences can be serious, potentially even fatal if similar to trench foot turning into an infection. PTSD causes cortisol levels in excess in the brain due to our natural threat response, thus causing inflammation. The brain governs all body systems and is physically affected when traumatic experiences occur, yet tragically this is not treated as a physical issue. Imagine if we responded in the same callous way if one was wounded by gunshot. “Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychiatric disorder that can occur following the experience or witnessing of a life-threatening event. Trauma is a distressing event in which a person feels severely threatened emotionally, psychologically, or physically. Most people will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lives, such as a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. Many people recover from trauma with time and through the support of family and friends, bouncing back with great resiliency, but for others, the effects of trauma are lasting, causing a person to live with deep emotional pain, Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

Kelly O’Horo

fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress far after the event has passed. Often, the support, guidance, and assistance of mental health professionals is fundamental to healing from trauma” (GoodTherapy.org). PTSD and the resulting negative physical side-effects can be effectively treated; however, only two treatments are recommended by the World Health Organization for the treatment of PTSD: EMDR therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) . What is EMDR? Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a costeffective, non-invasive, evidence-based method of psychotherapy that facilitates adaptive information processing developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD in the late 1980s. EMDR therapists use a specific 8-phase protocol, which comprehensively identifies and addresses experiences that have overwhelmed the brain’s natural resilience or coping capacity, and have thereby generated traumatic symptoms and/or harmful coping strategies. Through EMDR therapy, patients are able to reprocess traumatic information until it is no longer psychologically disruptive. And early EMDR intervention works: “EMDR assists survivors in the immediate aftermath of violent trauma by breaking through the walls of denial, shock, grief, and anger. It is ideal for those who have been unable to forget past traumatic life events, as it allows for a rapid processing of even deeply rooted memories, giving individuals back control of their lives and their emotions” (Dusty Bowencamp, American Red Cross).


What is Trauma-Focused CBT? Trauma-focused-CBT is recommended for children, adolescents and adults who have experienced a significantly traumatic event. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help people experiencing clinical posttraumatic stress return to a healthy state of functioning after a traumatic event. This therapy is commonly used for the parents or caregivers, children, and adolescents in a way that decreases the negative behavior patterns and emotional responses that occur as a result of sexual abuse, physical abuse, or other trauma. This form of therapy integrates interventions that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of people experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties as a result of a trauma and combines them with humanistic, cognitive behavioral and familial strategies. Through TF-CBT, both parents and children learn how to process their emotions and thoughts that relate to the traumatic experience. They are given the necessary tools to alleviate overwhelming thoughts that can cause stress, anxiety and depression and are taught how to manage their emotions in a healthier way. The goal of TF-CBT is to allow both children and adults to continue to develop their skills and communication techniques in a healthy manner. Trauma-focused CBT and EMDR therapy are recommended for children, adolescents and adults with PTSD. “Like CBT with a trauma focus, EMDR therapy aims to reduce subjective distress and strengthen adaptive cognitions related to the traumatic event. Unlike CBT with a trauma focus, EMDR does not involve detailed descriptions of the event, direct challenging of beliefs, extended exposure, or homework.”

First Responders & Their Spouses FREE Support Group designed specifically for first responders. This group is facilitated by professionals with specialized training to support the challenges specific to these occupations. Please join us for light snacks and safe conversation. 2nd Wednesday from 6:00-7:30pm & 4thThursday from 11:00am-12:30pm Please call 480-448-1076 or email info@infinitehw.com if you would like to attend.

2563 S. Val Vista Dr. St 108 Gilbert, AZ 85259

Symptoms of PTSD • Avoidance symptoms: · Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event · Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt • Re-experiencing symptoms: · Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks • Hyper-arousal symptoms: · Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance · Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm · Sleep disturbances • Negative mood and cognition symptoms: · Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable · Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event · Change in habits or behavior since the trauma Signs that you may want to ask for more help after a disturbing event or after a series of events: • Eating or sleeping too much or too little • Having low or no energy • Feeling numb or like nothing matters • Pulling away from people and things • Having unexplained aches and pains • Feeling helpless or hopeless • Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than you should • Feeling unusually confused or forgetful; on edge, angry, or upset; or worried and scared • Yelling or fighting with family and friends • Having thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head • Think of hurting or killing yourself or someone else • Unable to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school

What is a Trauma Recovery Network? Trauma Recovery Networks (TRNs) are national, permanent, expandable networks of volunteer EMDR clinicians who are ready to respond, pro-bono with quality interventions after a disaster. The Arizona Trauma Recovery Network is an established group of over 150 specialty-trained clinicians and has become the gold standard for TRNs. The AZTRN is also a Medical Reserve Corps Unit recognized by the U.S. Surgeon General who has stated that one of the largest gaps in disaster response is in behavioral health services to address after disaster related injuries. For more information, contact Arizona Trauma Recovery Network at www.AzTRN.org, Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArizonaTRN or Twitter: twitter.com/AZTRN To find a trauma therapist near you, visit: emdria.org, goodtherapy. org, and psychologytoday.com to locate someone who is trained in EMDR Therapy. You can also call Infinite Healing and Wellness at 480-448-1076 or email info@infinitehw.com to get help locating a clinician in your area that is qualified in the treatment of trauma. Source: goodtherapy.org, emdrhap.org Photo credit: Burlingham/FangXiaNuo/iStock

Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9


nutritional

Spices of the Holidays By Leila Elliot

B

y adding just a bit of the traditional holiday spices — cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger — to season your cooking can also provide a bounty of health benefits. It is well-known that spices are used to enhance flavor but recently spices have been hailed for a healthy purpose: compensation for lower salt, fat, and even sugar levels in foods. A small pinch of the following four spices can reduce inflammation, moderate cholesterol, improve digestion, and even calm nausea from motion sickness. Seasoning your food isn’t the only way to relish these spices health benefits: cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger are all available as supplements. Be sure to consult your doctor before making any changes to your daily health routine. Cinnamon Cinnamon is a spiced derived from the inner bark of a tropical evergreen tree. There are over 100 varieties of cinnamon; many found in the U.S. are of the species cassia and are typically shipped from Arabia and Ethiopia. Cinnamomum verum known as true cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon is native to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Malabar Coast of India and is a bit more difficult to come by. Cinnamon has unique medicinal abilities that arise mainly from one of the components called cinnamaldehyde, found in essential oil. According to the National Institutes of Health, cinnamaldehyde can help fight against bacterial and fungal infections. Recent studies show cinnamon slows down the emptying of the stomach, helping to moderate insulin and blood sugar levels. It is also known to help reduce triglycerides, LDL, and total cholesterol. Cinnamon also relieves inflammation, helping with pain in muscles and joints, and possibly reducing arthritis discomfort. It also prevents excessive platelet clotting, which can reduce blood flow that cause clots that lead to heart attack and stroke. Cloves Cloves are the aromatic nail-shaped flower buds of an evergreen tree from Maluku Islands in Indonesia. They are known for their strong, pungent, sweet and spicy flavor. Cloves can be used in marinades, quick breads and muffins, soups, squash dishes, and traditional holiday spice cakes, and, of course, pumpkin pie. Clove extracts have been used to treat minor respiratory ailments, such as a cold, and can be found in some sore throat sprays and mouthwashes due to its antibacterial properties. Cloves are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Traditionally used in Indian and Chinese medicine, the essential oil was used as a painkiller for dental emergencies. Topical application over the stomach or abdomen is said to aid digestive problems. Nutmeg Nutmeg is one of two spices — the other being mace —derived from an evergreen tree indigenous to the Banda Islands in the Moluccas of Indonesia. Nutmeg is a seed inside a speckled yellow fruit. Whole nutmegs are oval, wrinkled, brown and approximately an inch long in size. They are known for their slightly sweet, nutty aroma and taste. Nutmeg is traditionally used in many Italian and Greek dishes, though you may never notice it. A hint of nutmeg can be found in traditional macaroni and cheese and is a staple flavor in many Scandinavian cookies. Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

Much of nutmeg’s flavor and aroma comes from volatile oils of myristica, which contains myristicin, a narcotic whose function in the plant is as a natural insecticide. Nutmeg — like cinnamon and cloves — also acts as an antibacterial agent. Ginger Commonly referred to as ginger root, this spice is actually a rhizome, which is a self-replicating horizontal stem that sends out roots. Depending on the variety, the flesh can be yellow, white, or red and covered with a translucent flaky skin. Ginger is known for its warm, spicy, and slightly citrus flavor that works well in savory and sweet dishes alike. It is essential in Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Indonesian cuisines. Ginger offers numerous therapeutic benefits as well. Studies show that a particular enzyme in ginger known as zingibain has strong antiinflammatory properties, making it effective in relieving arthritis. Researchers determined that ginger reduces nausea due to a strong antioxidant, gingerol, which blocks receptors in the stomach that cause nausea. Recent studies show ginger is useful in relieving morning sickness during pregnancy, in treating postoperative nausea, and reducing motion sickness. Ginger is currently being studied for possible use against cancer cells for its immune boosting action. These favorite holiday spices provide us with strong and savory flavors to give depth to an otherwise ordinary dish. And with health benefits to match, you may feel like Granny’s Pumpkin Pie recipe isn’t so bad after all. If you feel so inclined to reform Granny’s Pie, here is a recipe for a “Grain-free Pumpkin Pie” that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Photo credit: juliannafunk/iStock, bhofack2/iStock


Grain-Free Pumpkin Pie Serves: 6-8

Ingredients For Crust 1 cup Almonds or pecans, finely ground in blender until Flour-like (or almond flour) 3 Tbsp Coconut oil plus some to grease pie pan 1 Egg Cinnamon powder (1/4-1/2 tsp or to taste) For Filling 15 oz Can of pumpkin (nothing added) or approx. 2 cups of homemade pureed pumpkin with excess liquid drained 3 Eggs 1/4 cup Honey (or to taste) 1 Tbsp Pumpkin pie spices or about 2 teaspoons cinnamon and 1/4 tsp each of cloves, ginger and nutmeg 1 tsp Natural vanilla Coconut milk to thin (no more than about 1/3 cup)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325. Grease pie pan with coconut oil and mix crust ingredients by hand in a mediumsized bowl. Press crust into bottom and sides of pie pan and put in the oven while making the filling. In the same bowl, combine the filling ingredients (except coconut milk) and mix using an immersion blender, regular blender, or food processor. A hand-mixer will not get it as smooth! It should be smooth and spreadable, but not really pourable. Add coconut milk if needed to thin slightly. After 10-15 minutes, remove the crust as it barely starts to brown. Pour/smooth the filling over the crust and return to oven for about an hour or until center is no longer giggly. Will set more as it cooks. Top with coconut cream or whipped heavy cream and some chopped pecans. Recipe provided by www.wellnessmama.com

1 in 4 children in Arizona struggle with hunger. 50% of individuals served by United Food Bank are children under the age of 18 and adults 60 years and older. For every $1 donated we can provide enough food for 5 meals.

Donate Help us feed those in need. Just $25 can feed a child for 6 weeks. Volunteer Help build emergency food boxes, sort through food donations, prepare after school snacks for kids, and assist with clerical work. Hold a Food Drive Collect much needed nonperishable food items to help us serve our 257 agency partners and programs. Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11


discerning possessions

The Upside of Downsizing By Josephine Levy

Is your state of health thriving or simply surviving? Complimentary 15-minute initial consultation. We help people discover principles and practices of health providing resources,education and support

Weight Loss • Habits of Health Healthy Eating Processed-Free Lifestyle

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Independent Certified Health Coaching Services

480-560-7842

judithgarner@cox.net facebook.com/judithgarnerhealthyliving

F

or many older adults, “downsizing” can be a loaded term. It can feel like moving from a full life to one of lesser satisfaction. However, whether downsizing in order to move or to be safer in our current home, the process of letting go can prove rewarding and fulfilling in its own right. As we age, it is natural to accumulate possessions: we need them to fulfill our roles as workers, parents, and partners. Objects become an extension of ourselves — they help define who we are, shaping our identity and our ties to others. As these roles change over time, it may be difficult to discard items that once played a key part in our lives, even though those roles themselves have changed.

“Objects are infused with our feelings for others — at heart, clutter is often a manifestation of our need to feel loved.” For example, children’s bikes, toys, and sports equipment hold memories that seem to be part of the objects themselves. But when the children are grown, why are their bicycles still in our garage twenty years later, as if they will spring into use at any moment? An older woman who has suffered a debilitating stroke may feel an intense yearning to keep her formal punch service for twenty; her years as a hostess ended long ago, but her love of friends and family can be found in those glasses. Objects are infused with our feelings for others — at heart, clutter is often a manifestation of our need to feel loved. What many people, both young and old, are realizing is that downsizing is also metaphorical: it can be emotionally freeing to understand that our love for one another is not dependent on an object. Our ability to recognize that our past is stored in our hearts and minds, not in the garage or china cabinet, will shift us in the right direction. Downsizing should honor the past while looking toward the future. A home is not a historical museum: it should support our current roles, interests, and talents. Surround yourself with now, and allow the future to unfold. Josephine Levy is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). For more information contact her at 480.532.1247 or josephine@mixedcandymedia.com

Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015


holistic health

Can Essential Oils Aid in Weight Loss? By Holly Olmstead, Holly’s Home Health Do your new year’s goals regularly include weight loss? Me too! I just haven’t been very successful at it —until now! From Fibromyalgia to Fit For many years I suffered with fibromyalgia and being overweight. I endured so much pain that I had trouble sleeping at night. Fatigue was a daily occurrence. I was anxious and depressed because of my inability to accomplish the many tasks I needed to do as a wife, mother, and business owner. My life, however, changed 3-1/2 years ago when I was introduced to essential oils. They have been a vital tool on my road to mind and body wellness. They enabled me to make healthy personal goals and stick to those goals that facilitated and changed my life forever. Essential Tools Before I could even implement an exercise routine or change my diet, I needed help with the lack of energy and the sugar cravings I was dealing with. One of the most valuable tools I used was a “metabolic blend of essential oils.” This blend of oils helps manage hunger between meals, helps aid in digestion, and elevates my mood. The essential oils comprised in this metabolic blend consist of grapefruit, lemon, peppermint, ginger, and cinnamon. Grapefruit oil helps reduce mental and physical fatigue. It also supports a healthy metabolism by cleansing and energizing cells. Lemon oil has detoxifying and digestive benefits and promotes a positive mood. Peppermint oil promotes healthy respiratory function and clear breathing. It increases stamina by bringing oxygen into the body. Ginger oil promotes digestion and supports overall digestive health. Cinnamon helps promote circulation, helps ease sore muscles and joints, helps reduce sugar cravings, and maintains a healthy immune system. As a companion to the metabolic blend, I also use an “energy and stamina complex” which consists of plant extracts and metabolic cofactors such as Ginkgo biloba, coenzyme Q10, ginseng, acetyl-L-carnitive, ashwagandha root extract, and more. This complex supports stamina naturally without the use of harmful stimulants such as caffeine or sugars. Ginkgo biloba is well known as a great antioxidant that helps prevent the spread of free radicals, which in turn improves blood flow to the brain. Ashwagandha root extract boosts energy levels and supports immunity and libido. It also reduces the effects of anxiety, insomnia, and stress. By using both the metabolic blend of essential oils and the energy and stamina complex, I now have fewer cravings, more energy, and the vitality I need to get me through the day and my workout regimen, which is a crucial component to weight loss and wellness. Complete Wellness/Weight-loss Program A weight-loss program will be most successful when you have four key factors: whole-food nutrition, water, exercise, and emotional support. • Whole Food Nutrition: It’s true — you are what you eat! If you want to have living healthy cells, eat living heathy plants. Skip the processed death. • Water: If you just drank 8 oz of pure water each hour for 8 hours a day — chances are you would lose weight! • Exercise: I know, I know — most of us think of exercise as a “fourletter” word. However, the benefits of exercise for weight loss and

wellness is huge and multifaceted. First of all, it is a key component in our body’s digestive process. Second, it improves our metabolism. Third, it increases our energy levels and reduces pain. And last, but not least, it boosts our mood! We all need a little more happiness! • Emotional Support: if you have a friend (or professional trainer) to hold you accountable to your goals, you will be much more successful! Yes, essential oils can aid in weight-loss. Also, I no longer suffer with Fibromyalgia pain and I am more fit, energetic and happier! Essential oils have definitely been a big part of that. If you’re looking for a holistic, all natural, weight-loss program this year that has all four key components, join me in our next Terra Fit Challenge starting Jan. 4, 2015. This 90-day program (which includes prizes) has a very low entry fee of only $25 and comes with personal wellness coaching! Contact Holly today to get started: hollyshomehealth@gmail.com or 480-540-8014. See how I personally lost 10 pounds and several inches this last 6 weeks! Photo credit: Beboy_ltd/iStock

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For More Information Call: 480.351.1070 or visit us online at: www.body4lifellc.com Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13


feature story

Tankchair:

Developed From Adversity, Delivering Independence

“The best part about the Tankchairs and Speedsters is that I am no longer invisible.” -Liz Soden

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“ t was a typical hot August day in 1999 when our world changed forever,” says Liz Soden. “A tire blew out on my pickup truck, resulting in an accident that left Brad with a broken leg, the three boys with some bumps and bruises, and me with a broken back at L-1 and paralyzed from the waist down.” Like anyone faced with devastating circumstances, there were lots of adjustments and changes that needed to be made despite their desire and attempts to keep life “normal.” Liz explains, “I could no longer work driving the school bus and it became necessary to move to Phoenix for easier access to my medical care. Everything in the house had to be modified and adjusted so I could take care of my own basic needs. Camping, fishing, hiking, and 4x4ing, which were a big part of our life, definitely became a big challenge in a wheelchair. Each camping trip would leave me more depressed as I faced more and more limitations.” In 2001, her husband, Brad, decided to rent a handicap accessible cabin so Liz could be comfortable and enjoy some time in the mounPage 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

tains. Brad woke up early one morning and watched in amazement as a herd of wild Elk came through the campground. “I got so excited,” says Brad, “and wanted to share this experience with the entire family. I quickly and quietly woke up my five kids and got my wife into her wheelchair. We started following the herd. As you can imagine, the wheelchair that was assigned to Liz by the HMO wasn’t built to go through a mountainside. The family was watching the herd slowly walk away when Liz, fighting back tears, told the family to go on without her, knowing her wheelchair could not go beyond the paved path.” Brad says, “I got so mad at the situation. It was not right that someone could not enjoy things because of a disability that was not their fault. The problem wasn’t the desire; the problem was that we had the wrong tools.” That started Brad thinking. For anyone who finds themselves confined to a wheelchair, their days of camping, hiking, walking on the beach, and many other once enjoyed activities are just distant memories of the past — a life they


once lived. Sure, motorized wheelchairs help with mobility; allowing a person to venture out of their home — as long as the weather is good and there is smooth terrain. From Adversity to Independence Brad was determined to find a solution so his wife could still partake and enjoy the outdoor life. He devoted his spare time to experimenting with golf carts, ATV’s and other motorized chairs. He had many trial and errors and burned up many motors. When Liz’s father looked at the latest creation, he said: “It’d be cool if you could put tracks on it like a tank.” The bells and whistles went off in Brad’s head. His experience with tracked vehicles while serving in the U.S. Army during Desert Storm and his experience as a front line infantryman in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle lead him to the obvious solution. From that idea the first Tankchair was created and gained great notoriety as Wall-E. The Tankchair has come a long way since that first design. With each adversity came new upgrades and now is much more practical. It can maneuver a few steps, curbs, rocky terrain, sand, snow, mud and several inches of water. However, the Tankchair is definitely designed for outdoor use only. The powerful tracks can ruin carpet and walls. Brad also invented another chair called Speedster. The Speedster has motorcycle tires and can reach speeds up to 30 mph; however, the speed is limited for safety reasons. The Speedster can hold a single charge for about ten days making this chair even more amazing. Liz says the best part about the Tankchair and Speedster is she no longer feels invisible. “People no longer avoid looking at me in fear of being rude because I’m in a wheelchair. Words cannot begin to describe the feeling I get when I am in one of these chairs. I don’t know where I would be right now if I did not have my wonderful husband by my side. I truly feel blessed and I want to share that feeling with all the handicapped people in the world. I was able to go hiking again and do all the outdoor things that I love. I now run with my kids in the snow and go to the beach again. With the Tankchair, I can go into the shallow water at the beach and get on a jet ski by myself. The first time I took off the feeling of independence was absolutely amazing, I felt normal again, like there was nothing wrong with me.” Customized and Unique It wasn’t long before the requests for Tankchairs started pouring in. But with each new request for a chair came the unique disabilities of the individual. Additional trials and errors were required to design a custom fit chair that would work for that particular individual according to their disabilities so they can gain maximum benefit and independence. Each chair can be customized to fit the individuals’ unique needs. Here are some of the unique Tankchairs that have provided these individuals more independence: • I nvestigator Bill Weigt from the Peoria Police Department became paralyzed from the chest down after he was shot in the line of duty in 2005. Tankchair built Bill a one-of-a-kind Cop Chair equipped with lights, sirens, and everything else Bill needs to continue working in law enforcement after his accident. Bill is the president of TC Charity; he wants to continue helping people through Tankchair the way he was helped. • Jonny Ogan, now eighteen years old, was born without legs. Tankchair built Jonny an original Speedster that he is able to use as a car to get back and forth from school. Jonny’s favorite sports team is the Phoenix Suns so the chair was painted his favorite color and the Suns’ mascot, The Gorilla, personally delivered Jonny his chair.

We want every family to feel the happiness in getting beyond the sidewalk says Brad Soden pictured here with his wife Liz Soden and their dog Momo • Josh Brown has been wheelchair-bound since birth. Josh is an amazing drummer and won a spot on the high school marching band but was unable to march due to the wheelchair. Tankchair built Josh a chair that allows him to march with his band mates by using his big toe to drive so he can use both hands to drum. • Nick Mendes was a 21-year-old soldier doing what he loved, defending his beloved country until he was injured by an IED explosion while serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan. The IED blast left Nick in complete quadriplegia. Nick fell in love with his nurse Wendy and after four years of dating, Tankchair made it possible for Nick and Wendy to have the wedding of their dreams on the beach. • Bill Dowling was a Fire Captain in Houston Texas for thirteen years, previously a marine. On May 31, 2013, Bill and his crew were in a burning building when the roof collapsed. Bill was the only survivor, but had both legs amputated and suffers from brain damage leaving him unable to talk. Bill is recovering and now able to barely move his arms again. Tankchair built a chair that resembles the fire truck he used to captain. With the Tankchair, Bill can go off by himself for the first time since his accident and it has a remote control so Bill’s wife can drive the chair when he gets tired. • Chris Sullivan was serving in the line of duty when he was injured, leaving him paralyzed. Chris Sullivan met his beautiful wife after he was released from the hospital and they now have a son. All Chris Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15


feature story

continued

Left to Right: HOF Player Bobby Bell (KC Chiefs), Arizona Representative Steve Smith, SGT Ryan Price and his son, Megan Holland (Director of HOF Players Classic), HOF Player Paul Krause (Minnesota Vikings), Brad Soden (Owner of Tankchair), HOF Player Joe DeLamielleure (Buffalo Bills),Investigator William Weigt (President of TC Charity). wanted to do was play and run with his son but couldn’t with a regular motorized wheelchair. Tankchair made Chris a chair that allows him to chase after his son in the grass and sand for the first time. Helping Veterans Being a veteran, Brad takes it very personal when disabled veterans request a Tankchair. He knows the sacrifices they have already made so he can’t let money stand in the way of giving them some much deserved independence and ability to help themselves. Brad says, “Money doesn’t drive me, it’s about the smiles and improving lives.” The solution was to create TC Charity, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization with two main goals: 1. Build a Veteran Vocational Rehabilitation Facility where disabled veterans returning from military duty can attend and learn a skill or trade that will aid them in finding employment in civilian life. We propose that the facility hire veterans to train and teach, as they have experienced the military life for themselves and can provide insight and support. 2. Raise money to provide mobility to disabled veterans, police officers, firefighters and children. Brad is happy to be able to provide other people all the freedom and joy his family and wife now have. “The Tankchair has changed our life just as much as the accident did back in 1999,” he says. The Hall of Fame Players Foundation (HOF Players) has selected Tankchair’s TC Charity to receive a portion of funds raised during the Superbowl 2015 week here in Arizona. Over 30 Pro Football Hall of Famers are scheduled to attend each event including the HOF Players Golf Tournament, All Star Benefit, Jim McMahon Tailgate Party and other events. For event details and purchase tickets, visit www.hofplayersevents.org.

For more information about Tankchair and TC Charity, call 1-888-519-4465;
email: info.tankchair@gmail.com; or visit www.Tankchair.com. Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

Brad says, “Money doesn’t drive me, it’s about the smiles and improving lives.”


policy guidance

Shopping for Medicare Plans?

Choose a Broker

Patty Vieira

By Patty Vieira, Independent Broker, Insurance Resources LLC

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hopping for Medicare plans can be very overwhelming. First, Medicare sends you a large book with all the plans that exist. Then, all the major insurance carriers send you pamphlets telling you why you should pick them. Next come all the insurance agents. Your mailbox explodes daily. The question is, who should you trust? Often, when I’m with a client, they ask, “What’s the best plan?” Medicare absolutely forbids me to answer that question and for a very good reason. There is no such thing as the “best plan.” There is, however, the plan that will work best for you. The challenge is finding that plan. To determine what the best plan is for you, there are many factors to take into consideration. Do you have a doctor that you want to keep? Do you care which hospital you use when needed? Do you have conditions like diabetes or congestive heart failure? Within each insurance company are various plans and networks to choose from if you’re looking at Medicare Advantage plans. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve arrived at an appointment and when the potential client realizes how many different companies I can research, I see the relief flooding through their faces. A broker will take your particular doctors and research the plans they accept. Physicians rarely contract with all companies, so this can influence your choice of plans. In addition to looking for your doctors, a broker may access which plan is the most cost effective for your medical conditions and current medications. Many companies have plans that cater to the special needs of diabetics or those with certain heart conditions and often those plans offer lower out-of-pocket cost. Overall, a broker has your best interest at heart. Medicare regulates the compensation agents receive to ensure fairness among the insurance companies. From a broker’s perspective, it makes no difference which plan you choose because the compensation is the same. With multiple companies to offer a client, you can feel good that their recommendation is truly for your benefit. When shopping for a Medicare plan, ask if they are a broker and how many companies they have available. The more companies they represent, the better chance you have of finding the best plan for you.

Have questions about Medicare Plans? Call Patty Vieira at 480-2207233, email pattyjvieira@gmail.com or visit www.insurancebypatty.com. With 28 years’ experience, I can simplify insurance quotes and policy term so you can understand them and find the right plan to meet your unique needs. Photo credit: monkeybusinessimages/iStock

What is an “Essential” Oil? Call or Email Holly today for Your Free Wellness Analysis and Sample of Oil CPTG Essential Oil

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480-540-8014 www.LifeisEssential.com hollyshomehealth@gmail.com

Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17


range of motion

How to Get Your Backswing Back

Dustin Hall, LMT, SIP

Part II By Dustin Hall, LMT, SIP, Structura Body Therapies

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ast month, we discussed muscle mechanics and problematic muscle groups that could be affecting your backswing. This time we are going to talk about the last two parts of the swing and the muscles involved in making it happen. The last two parts of the swing are called the downswing and the follow-through. A strong backswing will set you up perfectly for these two steps. The downswing is all about weight transfer and momentum. Once you reach the top of the backswing, you start to transfer energy and engage your pectoralis major for downward club thrust. Your external obliques and gluteus medius fire to start the body’s rotation for the downswing. The stroke finishes with muscle contractions from the quadriceps and gastrocnemius to allow for energy transfer and propulsion of the ball. This is where the head of the club comes to hit the ball, the follow-through.

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Once you have driven through the ball, you move right into the follow-through. This is the very final part of the swing. If you don’t have a good follow-through, your drive will fall a little short every time. The follow-through involves a lot of the same muscle groups as the backswing: the infraspinatus, teres minor, rhomboid major, lattissimus dorsi, and external oblique. These major muscle groups are used in everyday life, but are not often exercised enough. Due to stress and overuse, these muscles can become weak and stuck together not allowing for full range of motion or the perfect drive! Some great ways to insure you get your perfect backswing and drive are by focusing on stretches that involve your functional lines and spiral lines described by Thomas Myers. You will want to do really good cross body stretching (hip cross over, upper spinal floor twist) and lengthen the abdominals (static extension position, cats and dogs). You also need to make sure you are strengthening your major core muscles (abdominals, oblique muscle group, quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and shoulder girdle). By stretching and strengthening these major groups, you should see a positive result with a perfect backswing and further drives. If you have noticed a weakness in your drive or would like to come in for a free consultation to evaluate your range of motion, please call Structura Body Therapies at 480-686-8647. Visit us at www.structurachandleraz.com. Photo credit: Matt_Brown/iStock

Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015


emotional self-care

Battling Holiday Grief By Chaplain Bill Spencer, Gemini Hospice LLC

•S hop online if going to the mall is too much for you to handle. Remember to shop early enough to allow for shipping. •K eep the telephone numbers of your pastor, counselor, close friend, or hotline either programmed into your phone or next to your home phone. •S tay in the light — The winter, with less sunlight, can affect your mood, but a walk in the sunshine can help in two ways: exercise and light exposure. •G o see a movie or have dinner with a comfortable, safe, close friend, preferably of the same gender. •C ommunicate with your family and friends about what you are capable of doing this year and, even more important, of what you are not. Don’t be led on a guilt trip and do more than is possible for you. •F ind others who may also be alone during the holidays. Helping each other will be important for both of you. For additional information or if you or a loved one needs Hospice, we can help. Gemini Hospice is family owned and operated with care and compassion being our main goals. Call 480-883-1353 or visit www.geminihospice.com.

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he holidays, with all their hustle and bustle, are upon us. Maybe this is your first season without your loved one and it may be a first after experiencing a loss. There is no “normal” being set for you except for what it is you determine for your own new normal. Here are some things to keep in mind and do this year as you enter into the busy season. • Prepare yourself for the ambush of emotions that may be triggered at any time by almost anything. • Accept the difficulty of this time of year and your recent loss. Remind yourself that this time will pass. • See others — Don’t stay by yourself even as tempting as it may sound, make yourself go out and meet with others, even if only for a few minutes. • Don’t try to forget by using alcohol or drugs. These will only numb the pain for a short time before it will return. Alcohol or drugs will only increase your depression. • Don’t reuse the old trimmings and decorations if the memories cause you too much pain. Decorate only with what makes you comfortable. • Continue to take care of yourself — Get out and move; continue to eat properly so that your physical well-being will be taken care of. Sugary and fatty foods filled with empty calories can worsen your depression. Exercise produces natural stress relievers.

Dan DiPomazio, CPA, PLLC 1820 E Ray Road, Suite A113 Chandler, AZ 85225 Office – 480-264-5140 Cell – 602-524-2004 Fax – 480-264-5142 dan@dipomaziocpa.com Helping individuals and companies with personalized accounting services, tax planning and tax preparation. Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19


mindless eating

Judith Garner

How the Science of Peak Performance can Help You Reach Weight-Loss Goals By Judith Garner, Garner Healthy Living Everyday

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f your health goals include a resolution to lose weight in the new year, you probably already realize there are many approaches you can take. Furthermore, depending on your need and reasoning, there are an overwhelming number of weight-loss products and programs to choose from. To have a successful weight reduction experience and keep the extra pounds off for good, take the time to pre-plan and get a good start by asking the right questions first. Whatever We Look For We’ll Find The science of peak performance shows us that the questions we ask concentrate our focus and determine what we feel and do. When it comes to achieving your weight loss resolution, ask yourself if this is the first time you’ve dieted, or, have you dieted many times previously losing weight just to put it all back on again? Yes or No. Your past experience directs the questions you should be asking yourself moving forward. Have you ever done any of these things that can actually undermine anyone’s best efforts to be lean, energetic, and healthier? • When you think of eating, do you consider yourself “on” or “off” a diet? • Do you drink a soft drink or alcoholic beverage each day? How about more than one a day? • When you get stressed, upset, or depressed, do you easily turn to junk food (e.g. eat a bag of chips or a pint of ice cream)? • Have you ever nibbled off a partner’s or friend’s plate while out in a restaurant or ate their leftovers after a home-cooked meal rather than store them? Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

• Have you ever over-indulged in taste-testing while cooking, or ate straight from a container while standing at the refrigerator door? These are all examples of eating on auto-pilot, a condition that has been coined: Mindless Eating. If you answered yes to any of those questions, you now have a focal point to work on. You can see that in order to reach your weight loss goal, you’re going to have to be honest with yourself before starting. Before worrying about cutting caloric food intake, or perhaps taking weight-loss supplements, first recognize your sabotaging choices and unconscious behaviors. Ask yourself: How much do I want this? Question, Question, Question Yourself! If you’re not all-in mentally, you may lose weight initially, but you’re not likely to keep it off for good. According to studies, 85 percent of people who go on a diet without behavioral support gain the weight back within two years or less. You can beat these odds by asking yourself the right questions that will lead you to take the specific consistent daily actions needed to reach your health goals. Here are a couple of examples of bad versus good questioning: • BAD: What would make me feel most full? • GOOD: What would really nourish me? • BAD: What’s the sweetest richest food I can get away with? • GOOD: What’s something I can eat that will give me more energy?


Excuses, Excuses, Excuses! Plan to Squelch Them Losing weight is not easy because changing the habits that you’ve become accustomed to can be uncomfortable. Part of pre-planning to reach your health goal involves preparing for some resistance — the resistance that will come from yourself, at times, and also the resistance you might find coming from people closest to you possibly feeling threatened by your changes. Not always do family and friends display resistance, but this is a surprising phenomenon that many people have experienced during their weight-loss journeys.

“Recognize your sabotaging choices and unconscious behaviors. Ask yourself: How much do I want this?”

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Get prepared in advance for the actions you will take when you find yourself thinking and making statements like these: • I can’t lose weight because of my metabolism. • I just can’t afford to eat healthy, it’s too expensive. • I inherited being overweight, it runs in my family. • I can’t give up great tasting food for health food that tastes bad. • I don’t have time to exercise, or exercising just makes me hungry.

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These sample statements exemplify the resistant mind-set. Limiting and sabotaging beliefs are changed by first recognizing the fallacy in your belief. Ask yourself a reasonable question: Is it really true? And, make yourself truthfully answer that question. It’s easier to overcome your own resistance when you realize that your feelings are not uncommon and that most people have a natural resistance to change at first. Overcome Emotional Attachments to Unhealthy Foods with Journaling A great way to decide how you’ll approach your weight-loss resolution is to begin by writing in a journal a few weeks in advance. Writing regularly helps you access your emotions and see patterns in your thinking and behaviors. It is a great place to ask yourself inquiring questions that concentrate your focus. Keeping a journal is simple and inexpensive — use any blank notebook or keep loose-leaf paper in a soft binder.

Reach your health goals with pre-planning and great questions!

Garner Healthy Living Everyday helps people discover principles and practices of health providing resources, education, and support in areas of weight-loss, habits of health, healthy eating, and processedfree lifestyle. We offer fee-based, certified independent health coaching services. We have mentors and coaches in every important area of our life — school, work, sports, skills. Why should maintaining our health be any different? For a complimentary initial consultation, contact Judith Garner at 480-560-7842, email judithgarner@cox.net, or www.facebook.com/judithgarnerhealthyliving. Photo credit: webphotographeer/iStock

FIND OUT HOW A TRUSTED ADVISOR CAN HELP YOU SUCCEED

BEYOND YOUR GOALS.

Join us for a FREE discussion on ways to grow your business.

Keith R. Dorson, MBA “The Visual Coach”

kdorson@winwinfireteams.com

www.winwinfireteams.com

480-890-0100 575 W. Chandler Blvd. Suite 220 Chandler, AZ 85225 Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21


healthy lifestyle regimen

What Your Hair Says About Your Health By Marji Hays, Cunningham Salon Organic

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hy can a bad hair day send us down a path of unfortunate events? Let me help you understand how our hair is an outward reflection of the person living inside. Are you healthy, sporty, happy, or a princess? Everything about our hair tells a story. Which is why paying attention to what our hair is saying is so important. To have that healthy, bouncy hair, we need some basics in our diets. We must have some protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and some vitamin A. Our inner health is what creates that beautiful outer glow. Ignoring these needs can be detrimental to our goals. Prolonged low calorie diets can stunt hair growth and cause limpness and dullness. Crash diets can cause hair loss. Losing more than 100 strands of hair a day is considered hair loss. The number one reason for hair loss is thyroid disorders. Other causes may be medications like birth control pills and some antidepressants. Diabetes, which can affect hormone levels, may be another cause. Always seek medical advice if you are losing hair for no apparent reason. Are you under 40 and graying? This could be genes or it could be a sign of something else. Anemia, thyroid issues, and vitamin B-12 deficiency are a few health issues that can lead to premature graying. If you experience premature graying, talk to your naturopath or doctor. Is that ponytail too tight? Over-styling and hair accessories can wreak havoc on your luscious locks. Using proper products for styling Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

and using as few clips and barrettes as possible will limit the breakage. Also, some hair products could contain formaldehyde, which has been linked to causing cancer and is also likely to cause severe hair loss. Everything that happens with your hair is your body trying to tell you something. For example, dry hair can be a sign of dehydration or damage from too much sun. To achieve that good hair day feeling every day, practice a healthy lifestyle regimen and work closely with your hairdresser to monitor your overall health as well as using proper products and services. Each product and service for your hair should be a prescription intended just for you. Read your hair product labels to ensure the contents are in line with your healthy lifestyle and appropriate for your hair type. Individual needs are important to us at Cunningham Salon Organics, where every customer is a masterpiece! We have researched and tested the products for you. To schedule an appointment or learn more about Organic hair care call: 480-705-7893 or email: cunninghamsalonorganic@hotmail.com. I look forward to the day when we are the FIRST choice for healthy hair services to help avoid the illnesses instead of the afterthought. Photo credit: Yuri/iStock


choosing wisely

How About Them Apples? Keith Dorson

By Keith Dorson, Win Win Fire Teams LLC.

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ave you ever taken the time to ponder the fact that the apple seems to be involved in a large quantity of proverbs? “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” “One rotten apple spoils the whole bunch.” Lastly, my personal favorite, “You can count the apples on a tree but you can’t count the trees from one apple.” This poses an excellent philosophical question; how many apples are in an apple? How could we answer that? Well, it depends on what you do with the apple. You can simply eat it and throw the core away. The answer would be one. Or you can eat it and then utilize the seeds into making more apples. Then there could be one, ten, or maybe even one million. There could even be an infinite amount of apples in an apple. Now, let’s pretend instead of having apples, we are using money. Suddenly the whole game changes to how much can I get out of this dollar? This has a whole new set of answers such as: pay my bills, buy my groceries, cover my monthly rent, etc. But how far-fetched is the idea that you could multiply that dollar by a hundred? A thousand? Millions? Not as far-fetched as you think with some time and patience and a little something called investing.

“What are you doing with your seeds? Are you throwing them away, saving a few here and there, or consistently implementing towards your own orchard?”

grow millions of orchards across the United States. What are you doing with your seeds? Are you throwing them away, saving a few here and there, or consistently implementing towards your own orchard? In the end, it only takes a small start to have a big finish because the true answer to the question “How many apples are in an apple?” is as many as you want. Keith R. Dorson can be reached at 480-890-0100, or by email at kdorson@winwinfireteams.com or visit www.winwinfireteams.com. Photo credit: spaxiax/iStock

A Quick Bite With their high dietary fiber, these miracle fruits can curb hunger for a few solid hours and makes for the perfect snack. But once their purpose is done, they are usually tossed and sent to the compost pile to serve another purpose elsewhere. No more apples were in that apple because it reached its full potential as a quick snack. Much like a quick afternoon treat; what we do with our “seeds” can be fleeting. The temptation to satisfy our hunger for goods right then and there can be hard to resist. We live in a “We Want It Now” era and saving seems like an inconvenient task but the reward far outweighs the price. You may not only be able to enjoy your afternoon apple, but with some extra effort, in time, you could have an entire orchard ready for harvesting. Johnny Appleseed Johnny Appleseed could arguably be the best investor of all time. He took a small bag of seeds and with time and effort, managed to

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2370 W Ray Rd Suite I • Chandler, AZ 85224 Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23


medical news

Tissue Bank Started to Better Study and Treat Cancer

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anner MD Anderson Cancer Center has started a tissue bank, in which medical experts are collecting and storing a variety of cancerous tissue samples to research the causes of cancer and better fight the disease. Tissue banks, or biobanks, are facilities that collect, store, and manage the use of biological samples for current and future research. Banner MD Anderson will use tumor specimens donated by patients to study the physiological and genetic properties of cancer. “The only way we’re going to be able to find a cure for cancer is to find out what caused it,” said Matthew Callister, MD, interim medical director at Banner MD Anderson in Gilbert. “This tissue bank will allow us to better determine what causes cancer, so we can find new ways to treat it and prevent the disease.” The Banner MD Anderson tissue bank is a collaborative project with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. It is the first of its kind for both institutions, due to the collaborative structure and all-encompassing approach to tissue collection. Tissue representing every type of cancer will be shared interchange-

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ably by both organizations, allowing scientists to collaborate in making high-impact scientific discoveries. Every new patient at the facility will be asked if they would like to donate tissue samples for the bank. They can opt in or out of donating residual tissues remaining from surgical or biopsy procedures. “This broadens the scope of our knowledge about different kinds of cancer, and in a more collective manner,” said Dr. Callister. As science and technologies are evolving, the medical community is learning more and more that cancers involve particular genetic profiles that react in certain ways to medications. “By collecting and analyzing such specimens, we’ll be able to contribute to this learning process and assist in developing newer and more effective treatments for cancer patients,” said Leticia De Los Santos, tissue bank supervisor at Banner MD Anderson. The tissue bank is tied directly with the MD Anderson Moon Shots program at MD Anderson, which is inspired by America’s push a generation ago to put a man on the moon. The program aims to make a giant leap for patients by accelerating the pace of converting scientific discoveries into clinical advances that reduce cancer deaths. What is learned from these initial cancer “moon shots” will ultimately lead to cures for all types of the disease. As Banner MD Anderson grows its tissue bank, the program likely will extend to other Banner Health facilities. Banner MD Anderson, located on the Banner Gateway campus, delivers cancer care to patients in Arizona through the collaboration of Banner Health and MD Anderson. Banner MD Anderson offers focused diseasespecific expertise in the medical, radiation and surgical management of the cancer patient; an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to patient care; access to clinical trials and new investigative therapies; stateof-the-art technology for the diagnosis, staging and treatment of all types of cancer; and oncology expertise in supportive care services. For more information, visit www.BannerMDAnderson.com. Photo credit: kasto80/iStock

Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015


rising identity theft

Steps to Protect Your Medical Identity

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wo million Americans fall victim to medical identity theft each year, according to a study by the Ponemon Institute, commissioned by Experian's ProtectMyID. While medical identity theft costs victims an average of $22,346, the potential impact can be far greater — medical identity theft could cost some victims their health, or even their lives. Medical identity theft involves the theft of personal information — such as your name, Social Security number or Medicare number — to obtain medical care, purchase drugs or submit false claims to Medicare. The crime can damage a victim's credit rating and even be life-threatening if it causes incorrect information to appear in a victim's personal medical records, warns the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's Office of the Inspector General (OIG). According to the study, while more Americans now understand just what medical identity theft is, few are taking the key steps that could help prevent it. Only 57 percent of survey respondents check their medical records for accuracy, and nearly one in five (18 percent) say they don't care about the accuracy of their medical records. The Federal Trade Commission recommends you take these steps to help prevent medical identity theft: • V erify: Before you share medical information with anyone, verify whom you're talking to. Never provide information over the phone or through the mail unless you initiated the contact and you're confident you're dealing with a legitimate organization. Be aware that medical identity thieves often try to scam consumers by posing as representatives of insurance companies, doctor's offices, pharmacies, and even government agencies. • P rotect: Keep paper copies of medical or insurance records and forms in a secure, locked file or drawer. When managing your health or insurance accounts online, be wary of any site that asks you to share sensitive information like your Social Security number, insurance account number or details of your medical conditions. Look for the hallmarks that a website is secure, including a Web address (URL) that begins with "https" (the "s" stands for "secure") and a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of the page. • S hred: Picking through trash is a common ploy of identity thieves. Shred your discarded health insurance forms, bills and medical records before disposing of them. Destroy the labels on your prescription pill bottles and packages before throwing them away.

The OIG also offers tips for medical identity theft protection, including: • Treat your Medicare and Social Security numbers and cards as carefully as you would your credit cards. • B e wary of anyone who asks for your Medicare number in exchange for "free" medical equipment or services. If what they're offering is really free, they shouldn't need your numbers. • Never let anyone use your Medicare ID card. The Ponemon survey found that a growing number of survey respondents (5 percent more in 2012 than in 2011) have allowed a family member to use their personal identification to obtain medical services, including treatment, health care products or pharmaceuticals. Doing so is against the law, and may afford unscrupulous individuals the chance to use that information for unauthorized purposes. According to the Ponemon survey, it takes, on average, about a year to resolve an instance of medical identity theft, and a quarter of the survey respondents said it took more than two years. As with a serious medical issue, resolution can be made more challenging depending on how long the problem is allowed to fester. Take an active role in protecting your medical information from identity thieves. Check your medical records regularly and keep an eye on all your financial and credit accounts. "Medical identity theft hits consumers both medically and financially," says Dr. Larry Ponemon, chairman and founder of the Ponemon Institute. "For three years in a row, our findings have consistently shown that medical identity theft crime continues to increase in terms of prevalence and costs to the victim." Content by Brandpoint Photo credit: davewhitney/iStock

Dec/Jan 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25


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Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ Dec/Jan 2015

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