Inspire Health May/June 2023

Women Can Take TXA

to Decrease Menstrual Bleeding

Steven Fein, MD, MPH Medical Director of Fem Infusion Centers

Many women have heavy menstrual bleeding and don’t realize it. You may think it’s normal to have a lot of bleeding the first few days of their period. If you are changing your pads frequently, missing work, or avoiding activities due to heavy bleeding, then it’s too heavy. Over time, you may become tired because their body’s iron is depleted. As many as 25% of all women with menstrual periods have low iron due to bleeding.

To address this, many women’s health experts prescribe estrogen or progesterone. During the past ten years TXA (tranexamic acid), a non-hormone alternative, has been proven to be safe and effective for women to take to decrease the amount of bleeding during their periods. TXA requires a prescription, but any doctor can prescribe it.

Once you’ve addressed the amount of bleeding you have, you should then get iron testing.

The only way to know whether your iron is low is to test your iron level (ferritin). Most people do not have their iron tested because they do not realize that the iron level and the hemoglobin level are different.

If your iron is found to be low, you may need an iron infusion. Oral iron supplements are unlikely to help because your body has limited capacity to absorb iron. When your doctor tells you to try oral iron, they may not realize how limited it is and how unlikely it

is to help you.

Iron infusions have become easier and are now widely accepted as a treatment for people who have low iron. The benefits include raising your iron level, raising your hemoglobin level, and avoiding the need for blood transfusions. Iron infusions are now provided safely and easily in outpatient infusion centers. You do not need to see a cancer specialist for an iron infusion.

Our mission at Heme On Call is to identity and treat everyone who needs iron. We aim to improve the health and well-being of those who have heavy menstrual bleeding. We can prescribe TXA for you, and we help you determine whether you need iron.

Heme On Call is a telemedicine-based hematology practice specializing in iron deficiency anemia. Call for a hematology telemedicine appointment, 786-567-8310, or visit hemeoncall.com.

This issue of Inspire Health is packed full of informative articles, tips and recipes focused on healthy living and wellness.

Our cover is about Miami’s own Larkin University and the diversity of the faculty and staff, which promotes academic leadership in the healthcare industry. Larkin University and its College of Pharmacy offers the only three-year PharmD program in Florida.

Writer Mary Parker shares tips on “skincare fasting,” which means taking periodic breaks from using dermatological products to allow skin to recover. She also explains how drinking unsweetened teas can support you during a traditional fast by boosting energy and aiding in the fat-burning process.

Eating fresh for a healthier brain is the subject of Earline Ray’s article explaining how coffee, fish, nuts, citrus fruits and broccoli can promote mental performance, memory and focus.

Be sure to check out other articles including facts about shingles, men’s health and chiropractic, and how to properly potty train your puppy!

Wishing you a wonderful summer of health and inspiration!

MAGAZINE

PUBLISHED BY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

publisher

GRANT MILLER

executive editor

MICHAEL MILLER

contributing writers

CHRISTOPHER PEARSON

GARY RUSE

account executives

GLORIA BURNS

AMY DONNER

KARINA HINTZ

MILLER MYERS

RICHARD NEIDORF

LORI NUSSBAUM

FARA SAX

DIANE SCHILLER

GEORGIA TAIT

production & design

DENISE CEBRERO

ISABEL VAVREK

Inspire Health is intended for educational purposes only. Never substitute content contained in this publication for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC, and the publishers of Inspire Health neither endorse nor promote the products and services described herein. Readers should not use the information in Inspire Health for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise, or supplementation program before taking medications; and if experiencing or suspecting the onset of any health problems.

GRANT MILLER Publisher MICHAEL MILLER Executive Editor

6796 SW 62ND AVENUE

SOUTH MIAMI, FL 33143

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michael@communitynewspapers.com

Keto StuffedMushrooms Keto StuffedMushrooms

By Nellie Palmer

• 1 lg container whole button mushrooms

• 1 pkg Jimmy Dean Sage sausage

• 1 pkg Asiago/Parmesean cheese

• 1 bunch green onions

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 tbsp parsley

 Core stems from mushrooms–chop finely and add to medium sized bowl

 Add 3/4 of the cheese to bowl along with green finely chopped green onions and minced garlic.

 Add sausage. Mix thoroughly.

 Stuff mushrooms with sausage mixture. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown.

 Garnish with parsley.

natural beauty

Fasting A GUIDE TO INTERMITTENT SKINCARE

By Mary Parker

The concept of "skincare fasts" is trending. The idea is to take periodic breaks from certain skin care products to allow the skin to heal and reset itself. Many people are puzzled by this concept. Aren't skincare products supposed to improve the health of the skin? In fact, many skincare products are designed to damage and irritate the skin to stimulate it to regrow and look fresh and young. Daily applications of these products can impair the skin's integrity.

Signs your skin wants a skincare fast

There are many subtle and not-sosubtle signs that your skin could benefit from skincare fasting:

Tight, shiny skin

A rough texture to the skin

An uneven skin tone

Redness

Dryness

Flaking

Oily skin

Acne breakouts

Rashes

Not all skincare products

During a skincare fast, do not abstain from using gentle cleansers, moisturizers and natural sunscreens. If you use an acne control agent regularly, talk to a skincare professional about whether you should include it in skincare fasts; the goal of a skincare fast is to make your skin healthier. Massive breakouts of blackheads and pimples are not part of the plan. You will have to carefully read the ingredients of your skincare products to identify the ones that can damage and irritate the skin. Products to include in your skincare fast include:

• Physical exfoliating agents, such as microbeads and crushed apricot shells.

• Chemical exfoliating agents, such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, malic acid and fruit enzymes (papain and bromelain). Sometimes these acids will be listed as AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHA (beta hydroxy acids).

• Retinoids and retinoic acid products.

• Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid. Although hyaluronic acid has the word "acid" in its name, it does not irritate or damage the skin; it just helps moisturize the skin from within and can and should be used daily.

Reset

Once you have isolated all of your potentially skin-irritating skincare products, the next step is to start out with a reset period. On average, it takes about a month for the skin to renew itself, so plan on a complete fast from any irritating skincare products for one month.

Four-day plan

After resetting, you will reintroduce your skin-irritating skincare products on an intermittent use schedule. You may have to engage in some trial and error to see what plan works best for your skin type, but most people find that following the four-day cycle first proposed by Dr. Bowe produces the best-looking skin:

 DAY ONE: clean, exfoliate, apply a vitamin C product and then moisturize

 DAY TWO: clean, apply a retinoid product and then moisturize

 DAYS THREE AND FOUR: abstain from all potentially skin-irritating skin products, but do clean and moisturize This schedule usually produces a glowing, luminous complexion.

Many people have discovered that allowing the skin time to recover after applying certain skincare products produces much better results than daily use of these products.

Keeping your life inbalance

Are stress factors throwing your life off-balance? Are everyday things like your job, family, finances, health or relationships affecting your happiness? It’s a good time to get a pulse on your mental health. May is officially Mental Health Awareness Month.

Just as important as your physical health, mental health impacts your physical, emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It also impacts the people around you.

You’re not alone if you’ve hit some rough patches. About 50% of Americans experience mental and behavioral health issues. But things like cost, convenience and fear of judgment often keep people from getting help.

People struggling with mental health issues often have a combination of telltale symptoms:

•Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, irritability, anxiety, worry or panic

•Loss of interest in hobbies and activities they normally love, including sex

•Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down”

•Difficulty concentrating, remembering, focusing and making decisions

•Problems falling or staying asleep

•Overeating or lack of appetite

•Unexplained physical problems that don’t respond to treatment—including headaches, digestive disorders, pains, sweating, trembling or racing heart

If you notice symptoms like these in yourself or someone close to you, pay attention. If they continue or get worse

over time, it’s a signal that something may not be right—and it may be time to take action.

Should you seek help?

Generations ago, due to lack of information, some people felt embarrassed about getting help for a psychological or emotional problem. Today, we know better. There’s no stigma and no reason to feel shame.

If you suspect a problem, a doctor can determine what’s causing it and how best to treat it. Self-diagnosing or selfmedicating are not recommended. And, whatever’s under the surface, be aware that it may take time to resolve. What’s involved in treatment?

“At Sanitas, we treat the whole person—body, mind and spirit,” says Mayra Salamanca, Associate Director of the BeWell program at Sanitas Medical Centers. “Mental health plays an enormous role in a person’s physical health, environment, life and the people in it. Our BeWell program provides greater access to mental and behavioral care by infusing it into the primary care setting.”

Based on a person's needs, treatment can be short- or long-term, with a focus on how to effectively cope with unpleasant situations and get back to enjoying life.

Most mental health treatments fall into two basic categories: talk therapy and medication. It’s not unusual to receive both.

Talk therapy involves spending time with a counselor or therapist, either oneon-one or in a small group of patients with similar conditions. The sessions are

usually conducted in person or via video. Meeting with a therapist at regular intervals, patients explore their symptoms, possible causes, and ways to cope with situations that trigger the issues. “What we see at Sanitas through BeWell is how empowering our patients with psychoeducation results in a great benefit or positive impact on their overall health, in most cases,” Salamanca said.

Medications can help reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression and are sometimes prescribed in combination with some form of talk therapy. A doctor will monitor you closely to be sure the medication is working correctly at the ideal dosage and isn’t causing side effects. Some patients take medications short term, to get through a rough patch; others may need to take them for longer periods.

Where to find help

Sanitas operates over 40 multi-service medical centers in Florida plus a 24/7 virtual medical center. The BeWell program at Sanitas provides mental and behavioral health screening, counseling, and referral services. Visit mysanitas.com/fl to become a patient. Your care team will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Tea Ease Your Fast With

By Mary Parker

Intermittent fasting is one of the most popular ways to regulate body weight. It is attractive for three reasons: First, unlike diets, it is simple. There is no calorie-counting, food-weighing, or avoiding entire food groups. Second, it works. Third, it is easy to stick with the plan. It does not disrupt your social life, interfere with holidays, or prevent you from enjoying good food.

There are many different approaches to intermittent fasting. Some people prefer the restricted calorie window approach, where each day, all calories must be consumed within an 8 or 6-hour window, and then they fast for the rest of the 24 hours. Other people prefer to fast one day out of every three, every other day, or two days a week. It's a personal preference.

Why Tea?

While fasting, only non-caloric liquids should be consumed. Many people have turned to unsweetened tea to assist them during fasting periods. Unlike plain water, flavored water, or sugar-free sodas, tea contains caffeine and other natural substances that

may promote fat burning. Tea is also loaded with phytochemicals that have health benefits. On fasting days, drinking tea may enhance weight loss while supporting good health and boosting energy levels.

Although any tea can be used to support fasting, some companies make products specifically designed for this purpose.

Pique Fasting Tea

Pique turns tea into stabilized crystals that come in single-serve packets. Pique has an extensive line of teas that have been supplemented in various ways to support skin health, digestive health and the immune system. They also have several products specifically designed to support fasting. These products are intended to

naturally suppress food cravings and enhance metabolism. They have fasting black tea, green tea, ginger and green tea, and an herbal caffeine-free formula. Empty packet into a teacup or glass full of hot or cold water and stir to dissolve the crystals.

IF Intermittent Fasting Tea

The IF tea company makes a tea blend specially designed to support intermittent fasting. It contains green and black teas and an assortment of other ingredients, such as ginger, cinnamon and hoodia. The blend is designed to suppress the appetite and enhance weight loss. Steep tea bag for five minutes in hot water before consumption.

Zero Tea

14-day Detox Tea

This green tea and rooibos blend is designed to suppress appetite, boost metabolism and support gut health while fasting. Although labeled as a "detox" tea, this tea does not contain any laxatives or diuretics. Steep tea bag for five minutes in hot water before consumption.

Use Caffeine Strategically

When using tea to assist with fasting, keep in mind its caffeine content. If caffeine disrupts your ability to sleep, a good strategy is to drink caffeinated teas in the morning and afternoon and then switch to an herbal non-caffeinated tea in the evening. Hibiscus and chamomile teas, with their powerful calming effects, can assist with sleep if consumed at bedtime.

Tea is not an essential part of a healthy intermittent fasting regimen, but it can make the fasting periods easier to get through. Specially designed fasting tea blends may work better but any tea blend can be used.

Dr. Berg Keto Fasting Tea

Dr. Berg's fasting rooibos tea includes ginger, ginseng and garcinia cambogia to promote weight loss. It comes unsweetened or sweetened with zero-calorie stevia. Steep tea bag for five minutes in hot water before consumption.

The future of cancer care for South Florida

The Irma and Norman Comprehensive Cancer Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center

As cancer diagnosis numbers continue to rise in South Florida and beyond, cancer is surpassing heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, in South Florida cancer diagnoses are rising and expected to increase by a shocking 12 percent by 2030.

Today, philanthropist and entrepreneur, Norman Braman and his wife Irma have their sights set on shaping the future of cancer care, ensuring increased access to expertise for South Florida patients. Scheduled to open in 2025, the Irma and Norman Braman Comprehensive Cancer Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach will create the needed access to more cancer treatment resources, while delivering an unmatched patient experience in a high-touch, high-tech environment.

“Cancer incidences are rising year after year. Today, many people are waiting weeks for a diagnostic study or a screening appointment, and even longer to receive treatment. That is just not right. That has to change,” Braman says. “The new cancer center will allow Mount Sinai physicians to deliver true clinical excellence with greater access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for survivorship, all in conjunction with Columbia University in New York.”

The partnership with Columbia University allows Mount Sinai physicians, led by cancer center director Dr. Steven Hochwald, to work synergistically with the university. As an NCI- designated facility, the university will facilitate expanded access to cancer research, prevention, early detection,

therapy and survivorship for the community. Patient treatment plans will be informed and reviewed by both organizations during regular planning sessions. In addition, many Mount Sinai oncologists serve as assistant professors at Columbia, ensuring the continual sharing, innovation, and updating of best practices.

Dr. Hochwald explains, “This is truly a new phase of patient-centric care. The investments we are making now in expanding our medical staff, new technologies and the building of this modern cancer center will create an unparalleled experience while increasing access for all.”

The Irma and Norman Braman Comprehensive Cancer Center will also offer expanded support services for patients and their families, ensuring a focus on both physical and emotional well-being. Programming will include wellness offerings such as meditation and massage, in addition to regular support groups and expanded educational opportunities. Every facet of the building has been designed with a focus on healing. Artwork, interior colors, extensive gardens and interior spaces showcasing views of Biscayne Bay all converge to create a calming environment for patients and their families.

“We know cancer affects everyone. We have the opportunity to truly affect change,” Braman says. “This project is worthy of our commitment and one that will ensure quality, patient-centric care for generations to come.”

Brain Health Eat Fresh for

By Earline Ray

WHILE THE TERM "BRAIN FOOD" IS OFTEN USED TO DESCRIBE SWEET OR SALTY QUICK-FIX SNACKS TO FUEL A LATE NIGHT STUDY SESSION OR LONG DAY AT WORK, THERE IS SUCH A THING AS TRUE "BRAIN FOOD". AS THE BRAIN IS RESPONSIBLE FOR EVERY FUNCTION OF THE HUMAN BODY, IT MAKES SENSE THAT SCIENTISTS AND NUTRITIONAL EXPERTS HAVE SPENT DECADES RESEARCHING FOODS THAT HAVE THE ABILITY TO BOOST AND SUPPORT BRAIN FUNCTION. IN FACT, OUR DIET IS A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO BRAIN HEALTH, WHICH HAS A FLOW-ON EFFECT ON MENTAL PERFORMANCE, FUNCTIONAL MEMORY, AND FOCUS.

HERE ARE 5 OF THE TOP SCIENCE-SUPPORTED FOOD CHOICES, SUCH AS COFFEE, WHICH HELP TO SUPPORT A HEALTHIER (AND HAPPIER) BRAIN.

and grapefruit, are one of the best sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant which prevents damage to brain cells and protects against a range of brain conditions such as anxiety disorders. This powerful vitamin is also shown to play a major role in preventing cognitive decline during aging, and increased vitamin C levels are correlated with improvements in memory, focus, and attention span. Vitamin C is also found in foods such as berries, broccoli, and kale.

Fish

There’s a reason why fatty fish is often mentioned in conversations about brain health. Types of fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are referred to as “fatty fish”, and this group includes sardines, tuna and salmon. The human brain is 60% fat, and 30% omega-3 fatty acid. Dietary omega-3 from fatty fish allows the brain to build new nerve cells and is shown to increase memory and cognitive ability. On the other hand, not getting enough dietary omega-3 fatty acids is shown to be linked to higher rates of depression and learning difficulties.

Coffee

Caffeine addicts, rejoice! There are two biochemical components in coffee which are scientifically proven to increase brain function. Caffeine is known to boost transmitters such as dopamine, which increase motivation and boost mood. The high amount of antioxidants in a cup of coffee may be connected to a decreased risk of brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s for those who drink between 3 and 4 cups of coffee per day.

There is a strong scientific link between heart health and brain health–and including nuts in your diet is an excellent way to improve both! Regular nut consumption is shown to improve heart health and decrease the risk of declining brain function due to aging. The relationship between nuts and brain power has been proven in studies which showed improved memory capacity in those who regularly snacked on nuts. This brain-boosting effect may be explained by the antioxidants and Vitamin E content of nuts, as well as the high proportion of healthy fats.

All nuts, from cashews to pistachios, are shown to have a positive impact on brain health. High amounts of brain-friendly omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts may make them a more effective “brain food” than other nuts.

Broccoli

Just one cup of cooked broccoli provides all of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K for an average person. Vitamin K is an essential building block for sphingolipids, which are a core component of building brain cells. Studies have shown that a diet high in vitamin K may lead to improved cognitive function, and reduced memory decline.

Broccoli also contains a large concentration of antioxidants, the anti-inflammatory compounds which prevent the brain from being damaged by free radicals.

These are only 5 of the brain-boosting foods that are easily available from the supermarket. There is no need to spend money on expensive supplements to support brain function–instead, reach for a handful of nuts, or start the day with a brain-boosting cup of coffee.

Herbed Balsamic Chicken Breasts

By Nellie Palmer

If you've only associated vinegar with the astringent white distilled variety, you're in for a real treat when using sweet and slightly syrupy balsamic. For fastest weight-loss results, substitute skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs.

INGREDIENTS

• 6 skinless boneless chicken breasts, trimmed of visible fat

• 1 tsp dried thyme, or more to taste

• 1 tsp dried marjoram, or more to taste

• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup dry red cooking wine

• 4 tbsp minced garlic

• 2 tbsp fresh chopped chives

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• Chicken stock as needed

DIRECTIONS

 Preheat a large, heavy non-stick pan on medium heat.

 Sprinkle chicken with thyme, marjoram and pepper and add to pan herb side down. Sprinkle thyme, marjoram and pepper on top side of chicken.

 Reduce heat to low, cover and cook on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes. Turn chicken, cover and cook an additional 8-10 minutes. The chicken should be browned and cooked through.

 Remove chicken from pan and keep warm.

 Add the vinegar and wine to pan and scrape anything remaining in the pan to loosen. Bring the mixture to a boil until the juices show signs of thickening. Add garlic, pepper to taste and approx. 1/2 cup chicken stock—continue boiling until the mixture begins to thicken and condense.

 Place chicken on a serving platter.

 Add chives and parsley to pan and stir. Pour sauce over and around chicken and serve.

Serves: 6

Pancreatic Cancer Sylvester: Neutrophils are major culprits in treatment resistance of

By Sandy Van

Researchers have shown for the first time exactly how immature neutrophils –white blood cells that are an important part of the immune system – are hijacked by pancreatic cancers to drive immunosuppression and treatment resistance.

The study, led by investigators at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, is published in Cancer Discovery, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.

The paper describes a previously unrecognized signaling circuit in pancreatic cancer that instigates immunosuppression and tumor-promoting inflammation in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment, ultimately creating treatment resistance. The central regulator of this treatment resistance is neutrophil-derived TNF signaling. TNF, or tumor necrosis factor, is a substance in the body that causes inflammation.

This is the first study to implicate immunosuppressive signaling from immature neutrophils — the earliest sentinels in developing pancreatic cancer — in this process, said Jashodeep Datta, MD, associate director of Translational Research at the Sylvester Pancreatic Cancer Research Institute. Datta, whose laboratory at Sylvester led the research, is senior author of the multicenter study.

“It suggests neutrophils are a dominant actor in this circuit. This is the first description of how cancer cells talk with neutrophils and how neutrophils are major actors in this immunosuppressive inflammatory drama in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment,” said Datta, the DiMare Family Chair in Immunotherapy at the Miller School.

He said the research is critical to scientists’ knowledge of pancreatic cancer — one of the most treatment-resistant cancers — because it “connects the molecular dots between the high-risk tumor genotypes that exist in pancreatic cancer and the specific molecular and cellular culprits — the

immature neutrophils — that are involved in creating immunosuppressive networks in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment.”

Dr. Datta said, the research team is “creating a road map to target each element of these molecular dots” to thwart this inflammatory process and overcome therapeutic resistance.

Nipun Merchant, MD, the founding director of the Sylvester Pancreatic Cancer Research Institute and a coauthor of the paper, said the research “will pave the way to the ultimate goal of clinical studies, so that our findings can be directly translated to improve patient care.”

Dr. Datta said clinical trials will attempt to target the immunosuppressive pathway from numerous angles.

“We’re collaborating with multiple groups across the country to make this happen and are developing a novel nanoengineering platform to target neutrophils without killing them so we can target the tolerogenic [immunosuppressive] signaling mechanisms within neutrophils,” he said.

To make the discovery, the Sylvester team collaborated with researchers in different disciplines at the Miller School, including the departments of Microbiology and Immunology, the Diabetes Research Institute, and Public Health Sciences. They also worked with colleagues at other medical schools and cancer centers, including Johns Hopkins, the University of Pennsylvania, and Harvard.

The researchers leveraged cutting-edge technologies, including single-cell biology, where they used spatial techniques to understand cellular relationships in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. They used high-dimensional sequencing to understand how cancer cells and neutrophils orchestrate this crosstalk. They brought it all together with mechanistic and translational studies using certain drugs to overcome chemotherapy resistance in cellular and animal models, as well as by using blood samples and tissue specimens made available by patients at Sylvester.

Pictured (l-r) are Iago de Castro Silva, Anna Bianchi, Jashodeep Datta, and Nilesh Deshpande, all co-authors on the manuscript.

(Photo courtesy of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center)

THE IMPORTANCE OF Balance

Do you know what causes disease? Just the word itself means "dis-ease." Disease is created by our own bodies when the delicate BALANCE within our internal environment is disturbed. When the internal environment inside our bodies are out of balance our health begins to deteriorate and imbalances appear or disease conditions appear. We have grown accustomed to calling these imbalances by a name, or given a diagnosis to name and identify it. But really, disease is literally a "dis-ease" or an imbalance. Too much of something, and not enough of something else that causes cells and organs to not work properly.

When our bodies' internal environment is optimal, we are actually able to heal oursleves efficiently and THRIVE. The power that made the body heals the body. When you scrape your knee eventually it heals, right? You may ask yourself then why do we sometimes experience slow healing time and/or inability to heal? The answer is simple.

What causes our bodies to be out of balance and lead to a state of dis-ease?

• Stress, both physical and mental

• Poor nutrition (excess sugar, processed food and insufficient fruit, veggies, clean water)

• Toxin overload (from food, water, air, chemicals, etc)

• Inflammation in our cells (from toxins and stress)

• Breaks in our DNA from free radicals (caused by toxins and stress too)

• Poor blood profile (causes decreased blood flow and oxygenation)

• Electromagnetic frequencies (from all the cell phone use)

When our bodies have an accumulation of so many toxins over the years that come from the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, the chemicals added to our food and environment, pharmaceuticals, cheour cells and organs get overwhelmed and stop functioning normally. This in turn causes inflammation which further deteriorates our bodies ability to heal. In fact, toxin overload and inflammation are at the root of 90% of the diseases plaguing humanity today.

Again, when that delicate BALANCE is disturbed, we don't heal ourselves as well and our quality of life and our lifespan is decreased.

There is a new technology being used in town that solves many of these problems. A new healing center has opened up in Miami that uses Scalar energy as a tool to harmonize the body so that it can heal itself more efficiently. Scalar energy has the ability to energize every single cell so they function at increasingly high levels. When our cellular charge is restored to an optimal level the first thing the cell does is clean the house- get rid of toxins and therefore inflammation in the body is reduced. The blood profile is rejuvenated and blood flow increased and oxygen circulated much more. This allows the body to return to a state of optimal functioning so that it can heal itself. When the internal BALANCE is restored and optimized the dis-ease condition of the body can be eliminated. We all have the power to function optimally and heal. Sometimes we just need a little help tapping into it.

Michele Gust, PT, Owner Amplified Healing

Larkin University’s Diverse Faculty Promotes Academic Leadership in Healthcare Industry

In a mere ten years, Larkin University has established itself as a diverse academic institution that promotes leadership in the healthcare industry. This has all been accomplished under the direction of its President & CEO Rudi H. Ettrich whose professional and scientific career includes extensive research in biomedical sciences and who has been cited more than 2300 times by the scientific community.

LU is now a fully accredited university, and its College of Pharmacy offers the only 3-year PharmD program in Florida. Along with its College of Biomedical Sciences, it boasts an exemplary success rate, and is poised to continue leading students on their path to success in their chosen professions.

At Larkin University everything begins and ends with a person in mind – their students, their communities, the patients, and people they will be serving. For LU, a key focus is to provide avenues of opportunity for the underserved and underrepresented communities. President Ettrich’s mission is to ensure the students are aware of the endless possibilities.

“We are driven by our Larkin L.I.O.N. mantra: Leadership. Innovation. Opportunity. Nurturing. We develop leaders in pharmacy education, pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical sciences, and biomedical sciences who make a difference in human health across their communities. We are here to highlight the wide range of job opportunities in the pharmaceutical field, such as becoming part of a clinical setting in a hospital or a pharmaceutical research team in a company, and, in a whole new area, veterinary pharmacy. There is so much more than working at a retail pharmacy, and often students or even our communities are not aware of the broadness of the profession,” said President Ettrich.

Currently, the College of Pharmacy offers a graduate Doctor of Pharmacy degree, and the College of Biomedical Sciences offers a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences degree designed for students committed to enhancing their credentials for admission to graduate programs in dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, and other health care fields, but President Ettrich envisions more for the University. ”LU is preparing for growth, within the Colleges by exploring the feasibility of additional master programs or combined programs in health professions. Moreover, the Board of Trustees recently approved a proposal for accrediting a new physician assistant program. LU also signed several international and national collaborative agreements regarding medical research. Finally, we would like to cover all aspects and career pathways of health care and offer the full range of opportunities to our communities.”

Equally important to President Ettrich is that faculty, staff, board members and students reflect the diverse community that surrounds the Larkin University campus which is in Miami Gardens.

Board member Dr. Marie Flore Lindor-Latortue, a native of Haiti, is an excellent example of that diversity. She was recommended by fellow board member and founder of LU Dr. Jack J. Michel and joined the board four years ago. With her two decades of experience in the healthcare industry at Jackson Memorial, a strong experience in HIV and case management, a degree in psychology, work in social services, and community, public and mental health, Dr. Latortue was the ideal candidate.

“The Larkin University Board of Trustees remains culturally diversified but also culturally sensitive. My combination of education and healthcare experience help our community see us as an example of what I call health empathy,” said Lindor-Latortue.

The doctor goes on to say, “joining the board at Larkin was how I could give back, approaching my position from both the clinical and community side.”

The term health empathy coined by Latortue, who also hosts a weekly radio show on 1700 AM WJCC Radio Mega on Thursdays at 12:30 p.m., aligns with LU’s mission of serving a diverse student body as well as the surrounding community.

“At Larkin University and our two colleges, we believe that higher education has a clear role of leveling the playing field and providing the necessary pathway for social and economic mobility. Our goal is to encourage students from our community to seek careers in healthcare, showing them the many rewarding areas of the field including clinical work, joining a hospital team and conducting research - changing their lives and the lives of their communities”

Speaking of LU’s students, they now are the beneficiaries of two new breakout rooms on campus, thanks to a generous donation made by Board President Dr. Mark D. Kent.

“I joined the board of Larkin University nearly four years ago. I truly love its mission to educate the young minds within our community. Remodeling the student study rooms just felt like the right way to support their learning efforts,” said Kent.

Kent who is African American, is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a Fellow of the Medical Group Management Association. In 2017, Kent launched healthcare startups Care Management Resources, Total Health Medical Centers and Your Partners in Health, all of which began in South Florida and have since been expanded into Central and West Florida. He currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer at Cano Health and has also held

numerous senior executive roles, including having served as CEO of Women’s Health Care Hospital in Evansville, Indiana and as CEO & Regional President of all Humana-owned Florida-based primary care practices, which today are known as Conviva Care Centers.

With such powerful leadership and a committed Board of Trustees at Larkin University, an institution committed to serving the common good, accessible to all, providing academic excellence and inclusive education to our diverse communities, the future of the healthcare industry is in good hands.

Learn more about Larkin University by visiting their website https://www.larkin.edu/

Graduate students during practical training in the laboratory

Dr. Mark Kent, President Rudi Ettrich, Dr. Marie FLore Lindor-Latortue, Dr. Jack Michel

Why should I participate in an asthma or allergy research study?

Florida Center for Allergy & Asthma Research (FCAAR) specializes in performing clinical trials in adults, adolescents and children for the indications of Allergic Rhinitis, Asthma, Atopic Dermatitis, and Chronic Urticaria among others.

What is a clinical research study?

A clinical research study is a medical study tailored to answer questions about the safety and ef昀cacy of potential new medications as well as a continuous study of medications that are already on the market.

Did you know that: A good number of clinical trials are also conducted on medications already existing on the market in order to collect valuable information with regards to safety, optimal dosage and ef昀cacy.

Why should I or my child participate in a research study?

First and foremost, all the drugs that we are currently bene昀ting from have been approved solely as a result of successful clinical trials. Secondly, during a clinical trial the patient will acquire a wealth of knowledge with regards to their asthma. A lot of 昀ndings are shared that can help the patient better understand the proper management of asthma and avoid stressful and scary trips to the ER. Third, but not least, by participating in a clinical study, you make a difference for yourself and others affected by the same ailment and help advance medical research.

FCAAR is currently conducting a variety of clinical research studies on several new and existing drugs for Asthma. Participants must be: 12 years of age and older, previously diagnosed with asthma for at least 12 months, and currently using asthma medications. Quali昀ed participants receive compensation for time and travel, study related medications, medical supervision from one of our board certi昀ed physicians.

PATIENTS

We at FCAAR have developed an extensive patient data base thanks to our reputation and longevity in the community. Our patient population is composed of 40% pediatrics and 60% adults and is diverse in ethnicity, race, and age.

TEAM

The research team is comprised of investigators, sub-investigators, study coordinators and numerous support staff, all well trained and highly quali昀ed to handle the most complex and challenging clinical trials.

SPONSORS

Some of the sponsors we have worked with include GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, , Sano昀, Novartis among others. We have also worked with all major CROs such as Iqvia, Syneos Health, PPD, Parexel.

WHERE

Our research centers are located within our Aventura and Kendall/Sunset clinical of昀ces.

Both facilities:

• Perform Phase II, III and IV clinical trials.

• Have all of the emergency equipment needed for adverse events.

• Are located in the proximity of a hospital (Baptist Hospital and Aventura Hospital),

• Provide ample space for monitors to work with phone, fax and copy machines readily available.

• Are conveniently located in densely populated areas with easy access to the main expressways and airports.

If you want to know if you qualify for one of the current clinical studies, scan the QR code and 昀ll out the brief survey.

facebook.com/FCAAResearch

www.florida-allergy.com/research-center research@florida-allergy.com

DISORDERS WE TREAT

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

Anaphylaxis

Asthma

Breathing Difficulties

Chronic Cough

Contact Dermatitis

Drug Allergy

Eczema

Food Allergy

Insect Allergy

Oral Allergy Syndrome

Pet Allergy

Pollen, Mold & Dust Mite Allergy

Sinusitis

Urticaria (Hives)

SERVICES & TREATMENTS

Asthma Management

Drug Allergy Testing

Ear Lavage

Food Allergy Testing

Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)

Insect Allergy Testing

Patch Allergy Testing for Contact Dermatitis

Penicillin Testing

Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

Skin Allergy Testing

Sublingual Immunotherapy (Allergy Drops)

Xolair

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE

SCAN ME

By Jennifer Dean

The popularity of ziplining is zooming for vacationers, campers and adventurers all over the world. Kids, in particular, love the idea of flying through the trees.

With a backyard zipline kit, you can bring the thrill to your own backyard.

A zipline gets kids excited about being outdoors.

Sometimes kids get bored with toys like swing sets and end up choosing to spend free time in front of a screen instead of outside. A zipline is a wonderful tool in motivating your kids to put down the electronics and move their bodies. They will be having a great time while getting stronger and more physically fit. They will also get the numerous benefits of spending time in the fresh air and sunshine.

A zipline can save you money.

Consider your zipline installation an investment in creating at home entertainment system that will not

REASONS TO GET YOUR KIDS

BACKYARD5ZIPLINE

consistently cost you money. Many families can't afford to spend their days at adventure parks or outdoor activity centers. Having the fun in your own backyard means that these special occasion treats become a daily possibility.

A zipline is a real-life lesson in physics.

Some kids learn best when they are actively engaged. Your child may be shocked to find out that a zipline has a lot to teach about basic math and physics. Concepts like angles, velocity and energy make a lot more sense when you can connect them to something tangible.

A personal zipline can be customized to your family.

Not all ziplines are alike, and not all are appropriate for people of various ages and size. When your kids are playing on a zipline you have purchased and installed, you can be sure that the set-up is right for your family. You can also choose how high to hang your zipline and you can

A

control the speed based on the angle you find is best.

You have the coolest yard on the block.

You won't have to worry about where your children are playing because all the kids will want to be at your house. This will offer you tremendous peace of mind because you know you have followed safety instructions and have the proper equipment like helmets and are requiring safe clothing and shoes.

You might have to invest in more snack food, but there are definite advantages to being able to personally supervise your children.

If you're looking for a fun, physical activity your kids can do right outside your house, consider installing a backyard zipline. Your kids will enjoy hours of play, and you will discover some great benefits as well.

M-DCPS offers swimming lessons to young students

By Bobby D. Williams

The leading cause of injury death among young children in Florida is drowning, a tragic reality that swimming lessons can help prevent. For this reason, MiamiDade County Public Schools offers swimming lessons during the school day in communities where access to pools is limited and the numbers of drowning deaths for young children is high.

“In our community, all of these housing complexes have pools,” said principal Jordana Schneider, whose school, Charles R. Hadley Elementary, was recently hosting swim lessons for its students. “The kids love the lessons. The lessons are engaging and are taught in small groups, definitely needed in our community where childhood drownings rank high.”

The Department of Life Skills at M-DCPS has been offering lessons using the Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program (LTS) curriculum for over 45 years. The LTS program rotates to approximately 28 elementary schools throughout MiamiDade County per school year, seven every nine weeks. The program focuses on students from pre-K to second grade. Students receive 30-minute swim lessons in a shallow, round, portable and heated pool.

LTS instructor Aliorky Garcia, who teaches the students at Charles R. Hadley Elementary, said that he finds out on the first day of lessons that most of these kids have never had swimming lessons so they are not aware how dangerous pools and the ocean can be. This is important since many apartment complexes where students live are near canals or lakes.

“By the end of the lessons, 90 percent of these students can glide without the kickboard and are blowing bubbles so they can breathe,” Garcia said. “They can be in the sea or a pool with no life jacket and they will survive.”

Garcia finds that second graders who are now in their third year of the program are swimming the freestyle stroke since he can put all the elements together once these students learn the basics.

For parents who live in communities where the numbers of drowning deaths for young children is high, these lessons are a great first step in keeping kids safe and helping them develop a love for swimming.

“It was a great opportunity for [Elijah] to learn the skills

that he needs to introduce him to swimming. It’s a great program,” said Erica Guzman, whose kindergartener Elijah Lanzas participated in the swim lessons this year. “He enjoyed it so much he told me to make sure I packed his swimming stuff every day.”

Guzman’s 21-year-old son, as well as her husband, participated in the LTS when they were in M-DCPS. Both are now strong swimmers. Each parent receives an individual progress report. This report displays each skill introduced during the swim lessons. The report exhibits each swim skill detailing how well their child mastered each skill.

Beyond swimming skills, students are taught important Red Cross safety tips. For example, they are advised on the concept of “Reach or throw, don’t go” which encourages swimmers never to jump into the water to save a drowning person. Students are instead instructed to get a pool pole, a big towel, a pool noodle, or other long object to try to aid the person. They are also taught how to use lifejackets.

“This program makes me happy because we are doing something good for these kids,” Garcia said.

One of his motivations for teaching students to swim is because as a child, he witnessed a 10-year-old student drown. “There are too many kids drowning and I think we are bringing those numbers down.”

For more information on this initiative, please contact Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Life Skills Department at 305-995-1963.

Bobby D. Williams is a Curriculum Support Specialist in Life Skills Department of Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

Self-Care

Self-Care

What it is & How it can help you

By Jay Lang

Self-care is a concept that is frequently mentioned in the media, and though it sounds like a good thing on its face, you may not have a clear idea about what the term means and how it relates to you personally. You can implement this important idea into your daily life to take advantage of the many benefits self-care can offer your physical, mental and spiritual health.

What Exactly Is Self-Care?

Self-care is an idea that encompasses all areas of good health. It means taking active steps recommended to maintain physical health, such as immunizations, screening tests and periodic visits to your primary care provider. Self-care also includes careful attention to diet, weight management and exercise that impacts overall health. But self-care also includes paying attention to your emotional/mental health, with measures that help to manage stress, reduce anxiety and improve mood. Finally, selfcare is concerned with spiritual well-being, as well, encouraging individuals to take the time to look inward, reassess perspective and connect with a higher understanding to provide meaning and purpose in life. Taken together, these actions help to improve health, enhance serenity and heighten well-being.

Effective Methods of Self-Care

Self-care can mean different actions for each individual. For some people, it may mean focusing more on physical health and the measures needed to strengthen the body and resist disease. It can mean making a conscious effort to eat a healthy diet or lose those extra pounds. It may mean instituting a new exercise regime or joining a new sport. Emotionally, self-care may mean setting aside more “me time” in order to process events that are going on or time to meditate to generate a greater sense of inner peace. It can mean making sure you get more restful sleep or going for a monthly massage. Even simple actions like taking a hot bath or listening to your favorite music can be a part of your self-care. Spiritually, self-care may mean spending more time in prayer, joining a study group or getting involved in programs that help others. It can mean spending more time outdoors in nature. Each person must explore what creates a feeling of positivity and progress for them in their own lives.

Benefits of Self-Care

Performing self-care activities on a regular basis offers many benefits. More attention to recommended health measures means physical health improves, with greater strength, endurance, immune system function and resistance to disease.

Emotionally, self-care gives individuals greater resilience during difficult times, improved relationships and higher self-esteem. Spiritually, selfcare provides a deeper connection with the infinite and a clearer sense of purpose and compassion toward others. In fact, taking care of yourself has a wealth of wider-ranging effects that impact your daily life.

Recognizing When Self-Care Is Indicated

Busy people often neglect taking time for themselves, and this can result in feelings of being frazzled and out of sorts. Self-care can be particularly important during times of life changes, such as the loss of a loved one or losing a job. A person may begin to feel overwhelmed and out of control, with negative effects on health and loss of self-confidence. Any event that places additional demands on you physically, emotionally or spiritually is an opportunity to perform self-care actions. These are times when self-care can make a significant difference to well-being, productivity and ability to cope. Engaging in self-care activities may sound like a luxury for busy individuals, but it can help them to feel physically healthier, emotionally calmer and spiritually more centered. Explore the many types of activities that can make up a selfcare routine, and learn the benefits this simple idea can have on all aspects of your life.

Renowned expertise in the treatment of varicose veins

Approximately 23% of adults in the US have varicose veins. If you include spider and reticular veins (tiny red capillary veins), the chance of having them increases to 80% of adult men and 85% of adult women. Hereditary factors are often at play here, and most adults with varicose veins will remember a parent with the same problem. However, there are other factors that can generate or worsen vari-

Miami Vascular Specialists would like to help. As one of the most respected and sought-after vascular surgery groups in the country, their team of boardcertified vascular surgeons have treated thousands of patients. With a focus on patient-centered care, guided by ultrasonic data, Miami Vascular Specialists’ mission is to help every patient meet their individual goals. Those goals could range from cosmetic improvement of the appearance of legs to treatment of more worrisome symptoms such as. itching heaviness, and burning; and the treatment of venous ulcers.

cose veins such as pregnancy, prolonged standing, and obesity. While varicose veins are generally not a threat to the patient's life, they can make life very uncomfortable. Symptoms can include achy, heavy feeling of the legs. Burning, throbbing, itching, and swelling are not uncommon. In more advanced cases, skin discoloration, ulcers, and bleeding can occur.

The vascular surgeons at Miami Vascular Specialists have experience in a wide variety of vein treatments, including:

• Conservative compression stocking therapy.

• Sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy.

• Microsurgical vein removal.

• Surgical ligation and stripping.

• Advanced wound care for venous ulcers.

• Insertion of prosthetic valves for advanced venous insufficiency

• Radiofrequency and laser ablation. (This is an experimental protocol available only in select centers in the US).

HOW TO POTTY TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

By Buck Russell

Bringing a new puppy into your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with many responsibilities, including potty training. Potty training your puppy is an essential part of their development, and it can be a challenging task, but with patience, consistency and positive reinforcement, it can be achieved successfully. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to potty train your puppy effectively.

START EARLY

Potty training should begin as early as possible, preferably when the puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks old. At this age, puppies have a shorter attention span, and they are less likely to have developed bad habits. They are also more receptive to learning and training. Starting early will also help your puppy learn the rules of your home and establish a routine.

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE

Establishing a routine is essential in potty training your puppy. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after every meal, before bedtime and after playtime. Puppies have small bladders, and they need to go out frequently, especially when they are younger. Consistency is key in establishing a routine, so stick to the same schedule every day.

CHOOSE A DESIGNATED POTTY AREA

Choosing a designated potty area will help your puppy learn where to go. Take your puppy to the same spot every time you take them out. This will help them recognize the smell of their urine or feces and associate it with going potty. Make sure the designated potty area is away from any distractions and is easily accessible.

USE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Positive reinforcement is a crucial aspect of potty training your puppy. Praise and reward your puppy every time they go potty in the designated area. Use treats, verbal praise and physical affection to reinforce good behavior. Avoid punishment or scolding your puppy if they have an accident. Punishing your puppy will only make them scared and confused, making the potty training process longer.

MONITOR YOUR PUPPY

Monitoring your puppy is essential in potty training. Keep a close eye on your puppy, especially during the early stages of training. If you notice any signs of your puppy needing to go potty, such as sniffing around, circling, or whining, take them out immediately to the designated potty area. If your puppy has an accident inside, clean it up immediately, and do not scold or punish them.

USE A CRATE

Using a crate can be a useful tool in potty training your puppy. Dogs are naturally clean animals, and they do not like to eliminate where they sleep. Crate training can help your puppy learn to hold their bladder for longer periods. Make sure the crate is the right size for your puppy, and never leave your puppy in the crate for too long.

Potty training your puppy can be a challenging task, but it is an essential part of their development. Starting early, establishing a routine, choosing a designated potty area, using positive reinforcement, monitoring your puppy, and using a crate can all be useful tools in potty training. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive, and with time, your puppy will learn to potty outside like a pro!

Facts You Should Know About Shingles & the Shingles Vaccine

By Jay Lang

Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same pathogen that causes chicken pox. Infection causes a rash that can be long lasting and very painful. Early treatment can help to reduce discomfort from the infection, and a vaccine is available to prevent infection. A few facts can help you determine if the shingles vaccine is right for you.

Who Gets Shingles?

If you have had chicken pox in the past, the varicella-zoster virus may be lying dormant in the tissues of your body. Years later, this virus can become active again, causing the infection and resulting in uncomfortable symptoms. People over the age of 50 are more prone to get the infection. If you are taking steroid medications for a period of time, you are more susceptible to shingles infection. People who are under treatment for cancer are more vulnerable. Some immune system diseases can increase your risk of infection.

Symptoms of the Shingles infection may appear as a patch of blisters that wraps around the trunk of the body, usually on just one side. Some people may get the rash on the face, neck, or near the eyes. Itching, tingling and sensitivity to touch may occur at the site. Fatigue, headache and fever can

sometimes occur. Other people may never get the rash but experience pain that is often confused with other medical problems. Most people will develop the infection only once, but repeated infection is possible.

Complications From Shingles

Because shingles affects the nerves, severe pain can occur, which may be lasting. If the infection occurs near the eyes, vision loss can result. Pneumonia, hearing loss and brain infection can occur as a result of the infection. Contact with open sores can lead to infection in other people who have not had chicken pox.

Diagnosing Shingles Infection

Your doctor may be able to diagnose the infection based on the appearance of the rash and symptoms of pain. However, if there is a question about the diagnosis, fluid from the blisters may be taken for laboratory examination.

Treatment of Shingles Infection

Although there is no cure for shingles, your healthcare provider can offer a number of medications to relieve itching and discomfort from the infection, as well as to shorten the duration. Your doctor may prescribe topical lotions to relieve itching, antiviral drugs, steroid medications and antidepressants or anticonvulsants to help manage pain.

Preventing Shingles With the Shingles Vaccine

A new vaccine is available to prevent severe shingles infection that will reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. It is administered in two separate injections. This current vaccine, which offers 90 percent effectiveness against the virus, is an improvement over the older vaccines, which only provided 70 percent effectiveness. This vaccine is available through your physician and from large pharmacies. Individuals who have received the older vaccine given several years ago are not fully protected from the virus and should receive the new vaccine.

Side Effects From the Shingles Vaccine

Most people will only experience soreness in the arm at the site of the injection. However, others may experience fatigue, headache, muscle pain, nausea or stomach pain for 2 to 3 days after injection. You should always notify your physician of any severe reactions from a vaccine. Acquiring a shingles infection is a very real health issue because it can cause severe discomfort and medical complications in some people. Today's safe and effective vaccines are the best way to avoid serious effects from shingles.

Men’s Health

& Chiropractic

By Dr. Aaron Dutruch D.C.

In general, men have a hard time making it to doctor unless something is wrong, going to the Chiropractor is no exception. The main reasons guys come in to see us is because they need some help with neck pain, back pain or headaches. Today I’ll be discussing some ways to alleviate these common ailments, along with how nutrition can impact men’s health.

The way I like to explain pain is that ‘‘pain” is your bodies “check engine light”, and just like in your vehicle, it turns on when structures can no longer compensate and start to break down.

Neck pain and headaches are often found together and can be caused by several things. Most commonly, I find that increased tension within the joints and muscles of the neck and upper back are the primary culprit. Repetitive or sustained actions like working at a computer fatigue these muscles. If you have a desk job, make sure to take breaks and be mindful of your posture while working. Lower back pain can be a bit more complicated to diagnose without an in-person consultation. However, a good starting point for reducing or limiting lower back pain is to stretch the hamstrings and hip flexors. Tight hamstrings and hip flexors cause the pelvis to

tilt forward and can jam the joints in the lower back together and increase pain. Another way to help limit lower back pain is by working to increase your core control. The core muscles of the abdomen act like a counterweight for your back muscles. If the core is weak or fatigues easily, it causes the lower back muscles to have to compensate. This can lead to chronic tension, pain and disc degeneration.

Changing up the way you approach your daily nutrition can greatly impact your overall health. When talking about nutrition for men’s health a few supplements come to mind. The few that I will discuss today are vitamin D, Magnesium, Omega 3’s and B12. Vitamin D not only helps you to build stronger bones, but it also plays a role

SUPPLEMENTS FOR MEN’S HEALTH

in heart health. Some studies have suggested that it may also help with testosterone production. Magnesium also plays a role in the production of testosterone and can reduce muscle tension and lead to more restful sleep. Omega 3’s can help to decrease inflammation throughout the body and reduces the risk of heart disease. Most people are aware that B vitamins are important for energy production but B12 specifically is great for brain function and can help fight that “brain fog” we all experience from time to time.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of what could be causing your pain or what supplements you should take. It’s to serve as a steppingstone to wellness and give you an idea of how to start feeling better. Health is more than just a number on a scale (pain scale or other) and if you are looking to find some help on your journey, you don’t have to wait until it becomes a major problem, just reach out to a professional near you and let’s get started!

Dr. Aaron Dutruch D. C. received his BS in Kinesiology, Fitness and Human Performance from LSU and his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Texas Chiropractic College. He is proficient in Upper Cervical chiropractic care and is a certified FAKTR provider.

THE REAL FOOD ACADEMY teaches

children and adults

the joys of cooking healthy food

By Christopher Pearson

As another school year closes in a few weeks, it’s time for parents to think about summer camp for their children. The husband and wife team of Maria and Arthur Cummins have an interesting suggestion – why not consider something exciting and different like their popular cooking camp for kids at The Real Food Academy?

On June 5th, The Real Food Academy will kick off its popular annual summer camp in a large sun-splashed building where children channel their inner chefs developing or honing their skills preparing a variety of foods that are healthy, nutritious and delicious.

Maria, a native of Venezuela who learned to cook healthy foods from her Peruvian father, launched a successful business in 2008 offering private cooking classes and children’s cooking parties in Miami Shores. Demand for the classes grew so rapidly that when her husband Arthur retired after a career in insurance, he joined her as Co-Founder of The Real Food Academy, which the pair launched in 2011.

They renovated a 5,300 square-foot, two-story building that features a large, well-appointed teaching kitchen, plenty of food preparation space and a café that is open to the public. During non-summer camp months, they stay busy providing adult cooking classes, corporate culinary retreats, team-building exercises, birthday parties, weddings and other special cooking events.

Among the delectable and healthful dishes on the teaching menu are avocado baked fries, vegetable frittata, marinated chicken kebabs, butternut squash ravioli, healthy pad thai, crispy salmon and quinoa fish fingers and pumpkin pie with chocolate crust.

“We don’t change the dish, we change the ingredients,” explains Maria. “We chose the name Real Food Academy because our mission is to focus on ingredients that are as close to organic as possible, using no processed foods. We are passionate about teaching the relationship between eating healthy and keeping healthy. The two go handin-hand.”

A summer camp like no other

“What’s so wonderful about our culinary summer camp

is that is provides children the chance to learn cooking skills, experiment in the kitchen, build friendships and expand their culinary palate,” says Arthur. “On top of that, they’re improving their math and reading skills, dancing Zumba and doing arts and crafts. Of course, we’re very careful about keeping everyone safe, wearing masks, washing hands, physically distancing and limiting the number of campers and staff.”

“Our primary mission, which we refer to as our North Star, is to educate families about the difference between real food and processed food and how unhealthy the latter is,” says Arthur.

One of the most popular camp activities is known as Food Detectives, where Maria teaches the campers how to read ingredient labels on food packages and what those names and numbers mean. “It’s always a shock to the kids when they realize that sugar is one of the top ingredients in breakfast cereals, which most of them had that morning for breakfast. Kids learn how eating healthy foods can potentially stave off future medical problems like diabetes and heart disease,” says Maria. The parents are as happy about the camp as the campers.

“My 13 year-old daughter attended this camp and loved it. It was a great combination of very good food, technique, great camp leaders and knowledge of nutrition. She is now correcting me on knife technique!," says parent Julia Santeliz.

Many of the campers come back every year and several have returned to help teach the newest generation of campers.

Starting June 5th and running until August 18th, The Real Food Academy Summer Camp runs for 11 weeks for kids ages 5-16 at 570 NE 81st Street in Miami. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with an extra charge for late pickup). We also offer private cooking classes in Miami for birthday parties, corporate events, or any other type of get-together, where one of our professional chefs will design a custom menu for the celebration.

The Real Food Academy is located at 570 NE 81st Street, Miami, Florida 33138. For more information, please visit ww.therealfoodacademy.com or call 786-395-0355.

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind celebrates playground construction, expansion project

By David Stiefel

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Mar. 22, in celebration of its playground expansion, the final phase of the Miami Lighthouse Academy multi-year construction project to support the innovative school’s classroom growth.

Completion of newly expanded playground came a year after the opening of a new 30,000-square-foot interior classroom expansion to the existing 115,000square-foot school facility. Miller Construction received an Association of Builders and Contractors Excellence Eagle Award in recognition of the project’s great design, execution, safety and quality, as determined by an independent panel.

“We designed all our new facilities to reflect the mission of the Miami Lighthouse Academy, providing our visually impaired and sighted students with a safe, child-oriented environment with a wide array of tactile experiences through which toddlers and young children can learn about the world around them in an engaging and fun way,” said Virginia Jacko, Miami Lighthouse president and CEO.

The opening of the expanded Owen S. Freed Playground provides abundant green space with separate areas for early learners, early elementary school children and older school children. The playground features an open field with colorful portable outdoor picnic tables and umbrellas funded by Rebecca Sosa, former Miami-Dade County Commissioner. The playground has extensive perimeter trees to provide shade, courtesy of Dixie Landscape and Raquel Regalado, Miami-Dade County Commissioner.

The entire playground area is protected by a 6-foot concrete masonry wall reinforced to mitigate vehicular impact. Sally Heyman, former Miami-Dade County Commissioner, arranged the funding of this most important aspect of the

playground, and Miller Construction and Wolfberg Alvarez & Partners were responsible for construction and design of the playground expansion project.

With research funding from The Children’s Trust, University of Miami faculty and Miami Lighthouse have been conducting a collaborative longitudinal study of the impact of Miami Lighthouse Academy LLC inclusion preschool and pre-kindergarten for early learners. The most recent results of the study found that interactions between teachers and students exceeded national averages for pre-K and preschool classes, that students improved their social and peer interaction skills, and that students have higher empathy scores after being enrolled for longer than a year.

Miami Lighthouse is the oldest and largest private agency in Florida assisting persons of all ages who are blind and visually impaired. Today, the agency serves more than 25,000 clients per year with an array of programs that enable blind and visually impaired persons to achieve independence.

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind is located at 601 SW Eighth Ave. For more information about Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the Miami Lighthouse Academy, visit MiamiLighthouse.org, or call 305-856-2288.

Dignitaries cut the ribbon officially opening the Owen S. Freed Playground for Miami Lighthouse Academy students. Pictured (l-r) are Marcel Morlote, vice-president, Wolfberg Alvarez & Partners; Shelby Reamer of Dixie Landscape; Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado; Sally Heyman, former Miami-Dade County Commissioner; Virginia Jacko, president and CEO Miami Lighthouse; Harley Miller, CEO Miller Construction Company; Sue Reamer of Dixie Landscape, and Charles Nielson, chair of the board, Miami Lighthouse.