Health Journal Summer 2016

Health Journal North Mississippi

Summer 2016

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Health Journal North Mississippi

Summer 2016

On the Cover Healthier BBQ Meal Options on page 23

Coloring is used as a method to focus the mind and relieve stress. Illustration by Lauren Wood djournal.com

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Health Journal summer edition

Editor Leslie Criss Reporters Michaela Gibson Morris Ginna Parsons

The Power of Mindfulness on page 15

Photography Lauren Wood Design Ellie Turner

Table of Contents

Contributing Experts Tandalaya Traylor Dr. Hoat M. Hoang

Features Overcoming the Odds • 7 Shake It Off • 11 The Power of Mindfulness • 15 Pack Smart • 18 Quinoa • 20 BBQ Meal Swaps • 23 Resource & Events Guide • 25

The Health Journal is a bi-annual publication of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal.

To subscribe to the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, call (662) 842-2611.

To advertise, call (662) 678-1611.

The Doctor’s In Don’t Let Diabetes Dominate • 12 Relief for Chronic Heartburn • 30

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Life Lessons

Alex Russell was only 15 when a health crisis cost her part of her eye sight, but it expanded her vision. Before brain surgery in January 2010, the Pontotoc teen was completely focused on competitive cheer. Her aspiration was to cheer at the collegiate level.

By Michaela Morris “I had just landed a full,” a signature tumbling pass, said Russell, now a rising senior at the University of Mississippi, studying speech pathology and communication disorders. “That’s such a big deal.”

In the year that followed, Russell said her perspective shifted.

“The time we have here is limited,” Russell said. “It makes you so much more thankful.”

More than a headache

The New Year’s Eve 2009 headache was bad, but it didn’t initially raise any alarms for Russell and her family.

“Migraines run in my family,” said Russell, who was then a high school freshman at North Pontotoc High School.

When the headache roared back a few days later, it came with something extra – floaters – white dots dancing in her vision. It wasn’t unlike interference on a TV screen.

“I called them flurries,” Russell said, because it looked like a snow shower.

After debating primary or emergency care, Russell and mom Beth Bryant ended up at the North Mississippi Medical Center emergency department. The medical team agreed that a migraine was the likely diagnosis, but suggested an MRI to rule out other problems. The scan showed

a large menacing mass.

“It was the size of a golf ball, and it was sitting on my optic nerve,” Russell said.

The medical team was kind in helping the family digest the news and prepare to head to Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center in Memphis.

“Your life changes in that moment,” said Bryant, who is trained as both a nurse and lawyer. “I lost it.”

Along with dad Tony Russell and stepdad David Bryant, Russell and her mom headed for Memphis.

“We were pretty emotional,” Russell said. “It was the worst trip to Memphis ever. “ Within a few hours of reviewing scans and running more tests, the Le Bonheur neurosurgery team could offer Russell and her family cautious optimism. There were two possible diagnoses – a malignant tumor or a cavernous malformation, which is a benign collection of abnormal blood vessels.

“They thought maybe it was benign, but they wouldn’t know until they did surgery,” Russell said.

The mass was bleeding, creating the pressure on her optic nerve that was causing the headaches and the blurred vision. Because of the location of the mass, there was a significant risk of blindness. Russell took comfort djournal.com

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Alex and her mother Beth Bryant volunteer at Le Bonheur in being surrounded by people who loved her.

“My friends came down and stayed with me,” taking advantage of snow days at school, Russell said.

The day of the surgery her extended family packed the waiting room.

The surgery, which involved removing a piece of her skull and then carefully removing the mass around her optic nerve, ran from 3 p.m. to midnight, Bryant said. The surgeons’ hopes were confirmed. The mass was benign, a cavernous malformation of the optic nerve.

“They were 95 percent certain it was a cavernous malformation,” Bryant said. “For me that was the big relief. I knew we wouldn’t be moving to Memphis to manage chemo and radiation.”

The malformation is rare; only a tiny percent of the population has it.

“They have no idea what caused it; it had been there since I was born,” Russell said.

The family rejoiced again when it became clear that Russell’s central vision was intact, but as they proceeded with the post-op evaluations, it became clear her peripheral vision took a hit.

“I lost a little bit (of peripheral vision) in the right and all in the left,” Russell said.

She spent another week in the hospital, recovering from the initial aftermath of the surgery. Then she stayed home from school for 30 days.

Through the entire hospital stay and initial recovery, Russell had stayed upbeat, buoyed by the support of her friends and family.

“Alex was such a trooper,” Bryant said, She dealt with the loss of peripheral vision and ensuing clumsiness with humor, as she adjusted to a field of vision missing a big slice.

“I knocked over a lot of good stuff,” Russell said.

Although the vision loss hasn’t impaired her school work, it changed her approach to driving. It took her an extra nine months to get her license. Russell still avoids driving after dark.

The big reality check came when she realized she was out of tumbling for a full year after her surgery.

“That’s when I fell apart,” Russell remembers.

Cheering had been a central focus for Russell. She went to camps and national competitions. She went to college basketball games, but it was 8

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Andrea Lewis kept Russell upbeat as she recovered from brain surgery the cheerleaders she watched.

“That was a huge part of her life,” Bryant said. “For a teenager, it was really significant.”

She didn’t completely give up on cheering. In spring tryouts, she made the high school squad even though she couldn’t tumble or jump. It was tough being grounded, but it forced her to broaden her horizons.

“I found other things I was good at,” Russell said.

She went back to tumbling as soon as she was medically cleared, but because of the loss of peripheral vision, she was never able to land a full again.

“I still liked (cheer) but it wasn’t as high on my list,” Russell said.

Lasting impact

Two key events during her stay at Le Bonheur shaped her trajectory, Russell said.

The speech pathologists made a lasting impression that ended up steering her academic and career aspirations.

“They didn’t have to draw blood or give me shots,” Russell said. “They were talking to me and playing fun games.”

After shadowing and observing nurses and speech pathologists, she realized that was the career for her. In August, she will begin applying to graduate schools to finish her training.

“My dream job is to work at Le Bonheur,” Russell said.

The other patients at Le Bonheur affected her profoundly, Russell said.

An 8-year-old named Carolina brought her a “Jesus Loves You” balloon after surgery, and the pair became friends. There were days Carolina couldn’t walk, see or talk, but the girl reached out to others.

“Her priorities changed,” Bryant said. “She always was a caring child … but it let her know how quickly things could change in this life. With Alex, it really hit home.”

Through the years, Russell has sought out opportunities to volunteer for Le Bonheur and North Mississippi Regional Center in Oxford.

“Before I was diagnosed, I was very self-centered,” Russell said. “It’s kind of like God sending you a wake-up call. You can still impact others.”

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Shake It Off Salt is a necessary nutrient, but a little goes a long way. Excessive salt consumption contributes to high blood pressure, raising the risk for stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. But taking the shaker off the table is only part of the battle to get sodium intake to a healthy level. North Mississippi Medical Center registered dietitian Ashley Newton, who works with cardiac patients, offered these tips for revealing hidden sources of sodium.

Canned veggies and soups

Seasoning packets, gravies

Out of the box

Bread

Deli meat

Cheese

“These can have almost your daily limit of sodium,” Newton said. Newton recommends people look for no salt added labels. Rinsing canned veggies can also remove the extra salt.

Most people don’t think of bread as a salty food, but it’s there. Salt is necessary for the bread-making process, but different brands can vary widely in sodium content. Best bet is to read labels and compare.

Finding the flavors:

Adding a seasoning packet or premade gravy can take a dinner from heart healthy to salt bomb. It’s important to look at not only the per-serving sodium info, but the number of servings per packet to judge if it’s an acceptable amount of salt, Newton said.

A sandwich can often be a hero as a portable, inexpensive lunch option.

But like all processed meat, deli meat can carry a heavy load of sodium. To keep sandwiches in your menu rotation, opt for oven roasted turkey; it has less sodium than roast beef and ham.

The meats sliced at the deli counter have less salt than the presliced.

Cutting the salt doesn’t have to leave food bland.

Newton recommends: • Garlic powder • Mrs. Dash no salt products • Herbs and spices

Buying potatoes, oatmeals, grits and pastas with seasonings packaged in the box can add more than a dash to your dinner. Best bet is to buy plain and add your own seasoning, so you have control, Newton suggests.

Cheese doesn’t seem salty, but because it is often packed in salt to cure, it carries a heavier load than you think.

The targets:

Less than 2,300 mg –1 teaspoon for those with no risk factors Less than 1,500 mg - 2/3 teaspoon for those with existing high blood pressure, kidney disease Average American consumption: More than 3,400 mg djournal.com

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Smart Diabetes Tips For Summer Illustration by Garland Patterson

The Doctor’s In

We can all tell that this summer is going to be a very hot one again.

For individuals with diabetes, these steps are important to protect yourself and prevent complications.

Foot Care

Check and wash your feet every day. Look at your bare feet for red spots, cuts, swelling and blisters. If you cannot see the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.

Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet. Check inside your shoes before wearing them. Make sure the lining is smooth and there are no objects inside.

Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Don’t put your feet into hot water. Test water before putting your feet in it just as you would before bathing a baby.

Hydrate With Water

There has been a lot of focus on eating a healthy diet, but many people don’t consider the health effects of what they drink. Water is better than sugary drinks for everyone, not only for people with diabetes.

Bored with water? For a refreshing summer beverage, try infused water. It’s simple to make. Just fill a pitcher with water and add sliced fruit, herbs or a combination of the two. Put the pitcher in the refrigerator for a few hours and you’ll have a crisp, refreshing drink. Try sliced oranges, lemons, strawberries, basil leaves, cucumbers, limes, honeydew melon, peaches and/or mint.

Summer Skin Protection

Choose the right sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, 12

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which will block both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 30.

• Maximize coverage. The point of sunscreen is to cover your entire body – not just the parts you can easily reach. The average adult needs to apply at least a shot glass of sunscreen for full protection. Some often-overlooked areas: tops of the ears, bottoms of the feet, under arms, between toes, on the scalp where the hair parts, and over the scalp for those with thinning hair (consider spray sunscreen for easy application).

• Reapply often. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and any time you emerge from water. Wearing a sensor or insulin pump? Use baby oil around the edges of an infusion set or sensor adhesive pad to loosen it from sunburned or irritated skin.

• Shade your eyes. Harmful UV rays can damage your eyesight, so wearing sunglasses is a must, especially if you have retinopathy or cataracts. Look for labels that say the lenses protect against 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

• Tend to wounds. If you have foot ulcers or other wounds on your skin, don’t cover them with sunscreen. Instead, ensure the wounds are clean and cover them with a bandage. In addition to blocking harmful rays, the bandage will keep bacteria from entering the wound.

• Mind your meds. Certain antibiotics, heart medications, anti-inflammatories and some blood pressure drugs may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Many sulfonylureas, used to treat type 2 diabetes, also increase sun sensitivity.

• Treat sunburns immediately. If the skin is peeling, it’s always good to keep lotions on it so it doesn’t crack and open up a spot for infections.

For pain relief, take an anti-inflammatory medication, then slather aloe over the burn.

Tandalaya Traylor is a nurse practitioner at the Diabetes Treatment Center located inside IMA-Tupelo.

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The Power of Mindfulness

In a multitasking world, the mind is always jumping, and stress is a constant, grating companion. It’s exhausting, and it has real consequences for the health of bodies, minds and relationships.

By Michaela Gibson Morris

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“We live in a culture that says you’ve got to stay busy,” said Ron Richardson, who teaches Tai Chi Chih, a moving meditation that draws from the ancient Chinese martial art. “There’s constant pressure to be somebody.”

Mindfulness – being fully present in the moment – can calm the waters and leave you better able to focus on the task at hand or the person in front of you.

Cultivating mindfulness doesn’t require a year’s retreat on a Tibetan mountain top, and it isn’t accessible only to cloistered nuns.

A daily 10-minute meditation practice, which can take many forms, is enough to make a difference.

“People who practice seem calmer, more serene, not as frazzled,” said Leah Headings, a Tupelo family and child therapist who uses meditation techniques in her work. “They’re more able to handle the ups and downs.”

It’s more than a feel-good response. It can be measured in reduced blood pressure and heart rate, reduction of stress hormones, healthier sleep patterns and decreased anxiety. Both adults and youth have shown benefits.

“Continued practice results in lasting changes in biochemical and physiological functioning,” said Marilyn Wilcher, senior director of the Benson-Henry Mind Body Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School.

Stress response happens automatically.

“We have to train the relaxation response,” Wilcher said.

Different forms

Meditation isn’t just one thing. For some, it’s a meditative practice where they are still and quiet. For others, it is gentle movement of yoga of Tai Chi or creative exploration through drawing or coloring. It can even be running or walking.

“It’s really more important that people find a technique that works for them,” Wilcher said. “You want to break the train of every day thoughts.”

In addition to slow, deep breathing, the core of a meditative practice is something that engages the mind without stressing it.

With coloring, for example, the mind stays involved with the colors and staying in the lines enough to let go of other worries.

What works for some won’t work for others. In her work with the Resilient Youth Program through the Benson-Henry Institute, Rana Chudnosfsky has found movement-based techniques usually work best for students with ADHD. 16

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“Sitting still and breathing might be impossible for those kids,” she said.

Guided meditation is like a mental vacation. Through spoken or written word, the person imagines himself in a relaxing, safe place. The goal is to vividly imagine yourself in the place, experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, sensations and tastes of the place.

It’s very helpful for children and adults who have been through traumatic situations.

“It helps them realize they can go to that place anywhere, anytime,” Headings said.

There are scores of guided meditation tracks available on iTunes.

People can also write their own. One of Chudnosfsky’s students created a meditation around a magic carpet ride with puppies.

With moving meditations, the aim is to center the mind by connecting with the body. Yoga focuses on breathing and stretching. Tai Chi Chih has 19 gentle sweeping movements that help with physical and mental balance.

“With Tai Chi Chih the emphasis is on the presence of energy within us and around us,” Richardson said.

Headings will combine movement and imagery, having her young clients imagine themselves as a lazy cat, turtle and a baby elephant.

“They learn how the body feels when it’s tense versus when it’s relaxed,” Headings said.

Whatever form of meditation calls to you, no one meditates perfectly, Wilcher said.

“You can’t be in the moment every moment,” Wilcher said. “But when we become aware the mind is wandering, we can come back to focus.”

Deeper sense

Meditation doesn’t have to be religious, but many people of faith find it deepens their relationship with the divine.

“There’s a presence – for me as a minister, it’s God – that helps us navigate through this life,” said Richardson, a retired hospital chaplain. “It’s fascinating to sit down and listen for the wisdom that’s there in life. Life is full of wisdom that is waiting for us.”

Through his 16 years of practicing Tai Chi Chih, Richardson said he feels a better connection with God and the rest of creation.

“When you’re centered, you’re more open to other people,” Richardson said. “My presence communicates care and concern for others.”

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Pack Smart Vacation is all about getting away from everyday routines and responsibilities.

When you’re letting it all hang out, it can be hard not to let healthy habits slide. Give yourself room to enjoy and relax, but it’s important to build healthy choices for food and physical activity into the plan, said Susan Presley of Anytime Fitness in Tupelo. It’s not just about what happens during your trip, it’s about being in a success place when you come home.

“It’s much more difficult to build a habit than break a habit,” Presley said.

By Michaela Gibson Morris

Packing up

A healthy vacation starts long before you back out of the driveway.

It’s important to pack to be active, said Kathy Tucker of HealthWorks!

Children’s Health Education Center in Tupelo.

“You want to make sure you have the right shoes,” Tucker said. “Flip flops don’t go everywhere.”

Along with clothes for exercise, consider throwing in some lightweight compact exercise tools. A jump rope or exercise bands don’t take 18

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up much room or add weight. Bring along a Frisbee or a ball to make it easier to get the whole family moving.

Don’t forget healthy snacks and plenty of water for the road. It can save you money and calories in transit.

Guard against eating out of boredom by packing snacks in individual serving sizes. If kids are too small to handle slide lock bags, use small disposable cups to scoop up a serving of snacks. It sits in the cup holder, Tucker said.

Getting there

Whether driving or flying, traveling can be challenging for healthy habits.

There may be no way to avoid sitting for long periods. Temptations are plentiful in convenience stores, fast food restaurants and airport terminals.

As much as possible, break up the trip, Tucker said. Stop for walking breaks, when driving. If conditions permit, stretch your legs, especially on long flights. Take a hike around the airport during layovers.

By plane or by car, water is the secret ingredient for arriving refreshed.

It’s also much easier to clean up than juice or soda when the inevitable spill happens, too.

“Hydrating is the most important thing to feeling good on a trip,” Tucker said.

In a car, it’s easy to keep a cooler of water handy. When flying, take an empty water bottle to fill up after clearing security or purchase one before heading to the gate.

When the stash of healthy snacks is exhausted or it’s time for something more, look for healthier options.

“Even in airports, you can search out healthy choices,” Presley said.

“Avoid processed foods.”

Beyond healthy choices with food and activity, it’s important to guard against germs and grime. Wipes and hand sanitizer supplement good hand-washing habits and help avoid an untimely illness.

“Keeping hands clean is so important,” Tucker said.

“There are so many options,” Tucker said. “There’s no excuse not to do something.”

Vacation can be an opportunity to try something new like paddle boarding or indulge in activities you don’t get to do regularly like canoeing or horseback riding.

If you are in a new city, find safe places to explore by foot instead of car.

“It lets you experience where you are,” Tucker said.

Zip lines will be a hit with tweens and teens, and all those stairs will give you a work out, Presley said.

“Sometimes, it’s actually easier to get work outs in,” Presley said, because fitness doesn’t have to compete with school and work obligations.

To sneak in some strength training, opt for planks, squats and push ups, which don’t require a lot of space or extra equipment. A chair or a bed can be used for triceps dips or as an assist for squats.

“You don’t have to have a gym,” Presley said. “There are so many things you can do with body weight exercises.”

When it’s time to eat, stick to a strategy that lets you indulge without going wild.

“When I travel, I try to eat two normal meals a day,” Tucker said.

“Then one meal is all about the experience of the place.”

Splurge on the treats you don’t have often at home, like key lime pie and seafood at the beach. Pass on the ordinary, like rolls, fries and potato chips.

“Don’t deprive yourself, but make healthier choices,” Presley said.

Fun begins

After arriving, make room for fitness in the vacation schedule.

Look for opportunities to move every day. Instead of just sitting on the beach, get up and take a walk along the surf. Bring a volleyball or Frisbee and get the rest of the family moving, too, Tucker suggests.

GROWING TO SERVE YOU IN A NEW, LARGER LOCATION

Check out the Health & Fitness section every other Friday in the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal to learn more on living healthy in North Mississippi!

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Quinoa 20

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Health Journal

By Ginna Parsons

What is quinoa?

No wonder quinoa is considered a “superfood.”

Pronounced KEEN-wah, it’s gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contains all nine essential amino acids.

And if that isn’t enough, it’s also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and a variety of antioxidants.

Quinoa is a grain crop that is grown for its edible seeds. It’s technically not a cereal grain, but a pseudo-cereal, or a seed that’s prepared and eaten similarly to a grain. And even though it’s technically not a grain, it still counts as a whole grain food.

Although quinoa is fairly new to the American market, it was a staple of the ancient Incas, who called it “the mother grain.”

There are three main types of quinoa – white, red and black – with white being the most common in American supermarkets. One cup of

cooked quinoa contains 222 calories, 4 grams of fat, 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.

The year 2013 was actually called “The International Year of Quinoa” by the United Nations, based on its high nutrient value and potential to contribute to food security worldwide.

Tiny and bead-shaped, quinoa expands to four times its original volume when cooked. It can be used in any way that rice can – as part of a main dish, a side dish, in soups, in salads and even in puddings.

You’ll find it with other grains in the grocery store, usually near the rice. Prepackaged it can run $5 to $6 a pound, but in bulk it’s about $4 a pound.

When cooked, it looks like little pearls, about the size of BBs. The taste is delicate, almost to the point of being bland, so it’s the perfect way to sneak some nutrition and bulk into your diet.

GRECIAN QUINOA SALAD Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa 1 1/2 cups less-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons minced fresh mint 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon minced shallots 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered Photos by Lauren Wood

1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper 1 cup chopped English cucumber 1 (2-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese Directions: Place quinoa in a bowl and cover with water.

Let stand 5 minutes; rinse well, and drain.

Bring broth to a boil in a large saucepan; stir in quinoa. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Uncover;

fluff with a fork. Cool to room temperature.

Combine olive oil, mint, lemon rind, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and shallots in a large bowl.

Add tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber and black olives. Let vegetables marinate 15 minutes to 1 hour. Add quinoa and toss well. Add feta and toss again. Serves 10. Per serving: 121 calories; 5.8g fat; 4mg cholesterol; 316mg sodium; 215mg potassium; 13.5g carbs; 1.9g fiber; 1.4g sugar; 4.3g protein.

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NEW LOCATION

Midtown Pointe • 499 Gloster Creek Village • Suite 1-A • Tupelo 22

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Health Journal

BBQ Meal Swaps Summer wouldn’t be the same without a barbecue. You can enjoy the tastes of the season without weighing yourself down by making some smart choices in the buffet line. Swapping chicken for ribs will cut calories and fat by half. You can add the butter to corn on the cob and still outperform a cup of potato salad. You can go whole hog on watermelon for a fraction of the calories and fat in the loaded brownie.

Heavy Weights

Ribs Serving size: 1/2 rack Calories: 703 Total fat: 53.6 grams 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: 246

or

Smoked Chicken Serving size: 1 breast w/ skin Calories: 336 Total fat: 14 grams 1/4 cup BBQ sauce: 123 calories

Potato Salad Serving size: 1 cup Calories: 358 Total fat: 20.5 grams

Loaded Brownie Serving size: 3 x 3-inch piece Calories: 470 Total fat: 23 grams

or

or

Corn on Cob Serving size: 1 ear Calories: 80 Total fat: .6 grams 1 teaspoon butter: 100 calories

Watermelon Serving size: 2 wedges Calories: 172 Total fat: .8 grams

Light Weights djournal.com

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Health Journal

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Resource Guide Community resources

Autism Center of North Mississippi provides assessments and early intervention for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Services offered on a sliding scale. Call (662) 840-0974 or visit www.autismcenternms.com.

HealthWorks! Children’s Education Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Located at the corner of Robert E. Lee and Industrial drives in Tupelo. General admission is $5. Call (662) 377-5437 or www. healthworkskidsms.org.

Lee County Family Resource Center of Northeast Mississippi on Magazine Street in Tupelo offers a range of resources for parents including parenting classes, conflict resolution seminars, positive youth development and child safety seat assistance. Call (662) 844-0013.

LIFE – Living Independence For Everyone – on Cliff Gookin Boulevard in Tupelo provides assistance and advocacy for people with disabilities. (662) 844-6633.

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency provides free confidential information, assessments and treatment referrals for people struggling with addiction. Maintains listings of area support group meetings. Call (662) 8410403.

Nurse Link, a free health care information service provided by NMMC, connects callers with a registered nurse from 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to midnight weekends and holidays.

Call (800) 882-6274.

Regional Rehabilitation Center provides long-term outpatient, therapeutic rehabilitation services free of charge to individuals with disabilities in Tupelo. Call (662) 842-1891.

Fitness

Beginner Yoga is offered at 9:30 a.m. and 5:15 p.m. Tuesdays at the Yoga Center in Tupelo. All classes are based on donation. Pay what you can afford to pay. Call (662) 372-3233.

Gentle Yoga is offered at 10 a.m. Fridays at the Tupelo Aquatic Center in Tupelo.

Bring a mat. All classes are based on donation. Pay what you can afford to pay. Call (662) 840-3768.

Jazzercise is offered at 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; at 12:15 -12:45 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; and 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday and

Thursday at King’s Gate Worship Center on West Jackson Street in Tupelo. Monthly fees start at $32. Contact Sherry Reppert at (662) 255-2696 or jazzreppert@yahoo.com.

Swimming and water aerobics are available at the Tupelo Aquatic Center at Veterans Park. Call (662) 840-3768.

T’ai Chi Chih is offered at 9 a.m.

Saturdays at Lee Acres Park in Tupelo.

Described as a moving meditation, the series of 19 movements improve balance, physical fitness, flexibility and stamina.

Free. Call (662) 231-5519.

Tupelo Parks and Recreation offers organized sports for youth and adults as well as community activities. Call (662) 8416440 or visit tupeloms.gov/parks-and-recreation/

Free clinics

Agape Health Services provides health care to those without insurance at its 505 North St., New Albany Clinic from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of the month. More information available at www.agapehs.org.

Antone Tannehill Good Samaritan Free Clinic provides health care to working or temporarily unemployed Lee County residents who cannot afford insurance but are not eligible for government programs at its Magazine Street clinic. Medications are provided through the clinic pharmacy.

Clinics are offered Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Wednesday morning and afternoon. Call (662) 844-3733.

CATCH Kids offers school-based and community clinics where children 18 and under can be seen free of charge in Lee, Chickasaw and Pontotoc counties.

Medications are provided without cost to patients through arrangements with local pharmacies. Call (662) 377-2194. Community clinics are: • 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays at 1616 N. Green St., Tupelo and West Oxford Street across from West Heights Baptist Church in Pontotoc.

• 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Morning Star Baptist Church in Tupelo.

• 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays at 1616 N. Green St., Tupelo and 203 Main St., Okolona.

Living Healthy Free Clinic will be open 1 to 5 p.m. the second and fourth Saturday of the month at its 2668 S. Harper Rd. building in Corinth. Open to anyone without Medicaid, Medicare or private health insurance. Call (662) 415-9446 or (662) 284-7361 for information or to volunteer.

Oxford Medical Ministries provides free health care to workers living in Lafayette and Yalobusha counties who can’t afford or don’t have access to health insurance, but make too much for public assistance. Call (662) 234-1374.

Patmos Medical Clinic will be open 1 to 5 p.m. the second and fourth Monday at Life Spring Ministries building, 1120 A Ave., Amory. Open to anyone without Medicaid, Medicare and private health insurance. Call (662) 315-9136.

Tree of Life Free Clinic offers free medical services to anyone without Medicaid, Medicare or private health insurance at 4:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month and 9 a.m. the third Saturday of the month at its 541 W. Main St. building in Tupelo.

Basic dental care – extractions only – identified through the regular medical clinic.

Call (662) 841-8777.

Education

American Red Cross offers CPR/AED/ First Aid classes at its Westside Drive office in Tupelo. Call (662) 842-6101.

Anger Management classes are offered 6 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday at Cedar Grove United Pentecostal Church on North Veterans Boulevard in Tupelo. Call (662) 844-9637.

Bariatric education seminars are held each month at the NMMC Bariatric Clinic and the NMMC Wellness Center, both in Tupelo. Covers issues involved in morbid obesity and bariatric surgery. Speaker is surgeon Dr. Terry Pinson. Call (662) 3777546 or (866) 908-9465.

Diabetes education classes are offered through area hospitals to aid people with managing their blood sugar and reducing the risk for complications from diabetes.

• Baptist Memorial-Union County in New Albany, (662) 538-2297 or (662) 538-2199.

• NMMC Diabetes Treatment Center in Tupelo, (662) 377-2500.

Expecting parents can access classes on pregnancy, newborn care, breastfeeding and preparing siblings and grandparents for a new baby at these hospitals: • Baptist Memorial-North Mississippi, Oxford - (662) 513-1602 • Baptist Memorial-Union County, New Albany - (662) 538-2397 • Merit Health Gilmore Memorial, Amory - (662) 256-6204 • Magnolia Regional Health Center, Corinth - (662) 293-2265.

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(662) 377-4956 • NMMC-West Point - (662) 495-2292 • OCH Regional, Starkville - Call (662) 615-3364 Fall Health Seminar and Luncheons will be offered in August, September and October at Merit Health Gilmore Memorial in Amory. Topics include heartburn, sore feet and women’s health. Call (662) 256-6005.

Infant CPR classes are offered at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at North Mississippi Medical Center Women’s Hospital in Tupelo. Call (662) 377-4934 or (800) 843-3375.

Northeast Mississippi Birthing Project offers support for pregnant women by pairing them with volunteer mentors and offering pregnancy and life-management related classes. Call (662) 255-8283 or email tonihill@birthingprojectusa.org.

Tobacco Cessation classes are available free through NMMC-Tupelo Community Health Department. Call (800) 843-3375.

A Woman’s Place Lunchtime Learning Series is offered monthly through the NMMC Spirit of Women and Health Care Foundation of North Mississippi. The programs, which are usually held in the First Baptist Church fellowship hall in Tupelo, cover a variety of health topics. Lunch is provided for $5 for those who preregister.

Call (800) 843-3375.

Support Groups

ACTS – Alcohol Chemical Treatment Series – is a curriculum-based self-help, recovery and educational program for anyone wanting to recover from alcohol or drugs, and their families. ACTS meets from 6 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday at Cedar Grove United Pentecostal Church on North Veterans Boulevard, Tupelo. ACTS is free. Call 844-9637.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women working to solve their common problem of alcoholism. There are no dues or fees.

• Tupelo: 33 meetings are offered at nine locations. Call (662) 844-0374 or visit www.aa-mississippi.org for listings.

• There are also meetings in Aberdeen, Ackerman, Amory, Ashland, Belmont, Booneville, Bruce, Calhoun City, Corinth, Fulton, Holly Springs, Houlka, Iuka, Mantachie, New Albany, Okolona, Oxford, Pontotoc, Saltillo, Starkville and West Point. Call (662) 327-8941 for Aberdeen and Starkville, (662) 697-0044 or (662) 533-9102 for Oxford, (662) 489-6612 for

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Pontotoc or (800) 344-2666.

For a listing of addiction support groups around Northeast Mississippi, call the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependency at 841-0403 or check www.msncadd.net.

Al-Anon is a fellowship of friends and relatives of alcoholics. The group has meetings at several locations: • American Legion Building, Lift Inc. building Fairground Circle, New Albany, 7 p.m. Mondays.

• <b>Cornerstone Methodist Church, </b>Tupelo, 5:30 p.m. Mondays. Call (662) 871-687-1811 or (662) 871-8068.

• Calvary Baptist Church, Tupelo, noon Wednesday and Friday.

• <b>First Presbyterian Church, </ b>Tupelo 8 p.m. Tuesdays.

• How It Works group, St. James Catholic Church, Tupelo, 7 p.m. Fridays • <b>Solution Seekers – Adult Children of Alcoholics </b>meets at noon Mondays at Calvary Baptist Church fellowship hall, Tupelo. Call Nancy P. at (847) 902-6267.

Groups also meet in Belmont, Corinth and Oxford.

ALS Connections support group meets at noon the second Tuesday of the month in the conference room at Longtown Medical Park in Tupelo. Sponsored by the ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter. Open to patients, family members, caregivers. Call Brandi Nickles at (601) 364-3326 or Jasmyne Searcy at (662) 377-7215.

Alzheimer’s support groups for family members and friends of those with the disease meets • Amory – 10 a.m. the first Monday of the month at First Friends office. Call Mary Nell Dorris and Janice Pickle at (662) 256-1130. No meetings on holidays.

• Corinth – 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at Corinth library. Call Keri Roaten. (662) 594-5526. No meeting in July.

• Pontotoc – 6 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at NMMC-Pontotoc Long Term Care conference room. Call Stacey Montgomery and Verna Butler at (662) 488-7638 • Starkville- the first Tuesday of the month at Church of Christ on East Lee Boulevard. Call Cindy Walker at (662) 498-0025.

• Tupelo – 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Cedars Health Center Activity Room. Call Terri at (662) 844-

1441.

• West Point – 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at Henry Clay County Retirement Center. Call Brenda Johnson and Michele Rowe at (662) 4952339.

Amputee Support Group meets at noon the first Tuesday of the month at NMMC Outpatient Rehab first floor conference room in Tupelo. Call (800) 843-3375.

Bariatric Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the cafeteria conference room at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi, Oxford. Call Becky Wilson at (662) 513-9671.

Bereavement Support Group meets 10 a.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month at Community Hospice office, 3289 McCullough Boulevard, Tupelo. Call Community Hospice at (662) 823-9850.

Celebrate Recovery is a Bible -based group open to those struggling with addiction, anger issues, grief, guilt, shame, financial loss, abuse, eating disorders or compulsive behaviors, meets at 6 p.m. Saturdays at NorthStar Church, 112 Bauhaus, Saltillo. Call (662) 869-7778 or email cr@ thenorthstarchurch .com.

The Compassionate Friends, a support group for families who have suffered the death of a child of any age, is open to parents, step-parents, grandparents and siblings. Information is at www.compassionatefriends.org.

• Tupelo - 6 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center.

Call Elizabeth Stamper at (662) 321-5442 or Doug Stamper at (662) 401-6131.

• West Point - 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at NMMC-West Point.

Call Michele Rowe at (662) 495-2337.

Parents, step-parents, grandparents and siblings are invited to attend. Information is at www.compassionatefriends.org.

Crossroads Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at 11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the MSU Extension Office behind Crossroads Arena in Corinth. Sponsored by the MS Foundation. Contact Joy Forsyth 462-7325 or joycforsyth@ frontiernet.net.

Diabetes Support Groups meet in: • Booneville - 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the George E. Allen Library except for June and December. Call Kitti Parman at (662)377-2500 or (800) 843-3375.

• Starkville- 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Oktibbeha County

Hospital educational facility. Call Nicky Yeatman at (662) 615-2668.

• Tupelo - 11 a.m. the second Thursday of the month at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Sponsored by the NMMC Diabetes Treatment Center. Call (662) 377-2500 or (800) 843-3375.

• West Point: meets quarterly at NMMC-West Point. Remaining 2012 meetings: Contact Ginger Carver at (662) 495-2213.

The Disability Support Group meets at 2 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at LIFE office, Cliff Gookin Boulevard, Tupelo. People with all types of physical and mental disabilities are welcome. Call Wayne Lauderdale or Emily Word at (662) 844-6633.

A Domestic Violence Support Group meets at 3:30 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the Lee County Family Resource Center in Tupelo. Child care available. Call (662) 844-0013.

A Domestic Violence Support Group meets at 6 p.m. every Thursday. Call (800) 527-7233 for location. Child care is provided.

FACE IT food allergy support group available in Tupelo. Focused on parents of children with food allergies, but open to others with medical conditions that require food avoidance. Contact Amelia at (662) 322-7434 or faceittupelo@live.com for locations and times.

Family Hope & Healing support group for those with a loved one in active addiction, treatment or recovery, meets at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Tupelo outpatient office for the Oxford Centre at 341 E. Main Street, suite A-1. Call (662)680-2636 or visit theoxfordcentre.org.

Family Navigation group for those with loved ones battling addiction will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at New Creations Counseling Services, 100 Court St., Tupelo. Call (662) 212-3587.

Fibromyalgia Support Group-Tupelo meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month at the Women First Resource Center 215 N. Gloster, Suite D, in Tupelo.

Call (662) 842-5725.

Gray Matters Support Group for anyone diagnosed with a brain tumor and their caregivers meets the last Tuesday of the month at the NMMC Cancer Center in Tupelo. Call Cindy Edwards at (662) 377-4049 or (800) 843-3375.

Grief Support Groups meet in Tupelo: • 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month at Gentiva Hospice office in

Spanish Village, Suite 105, Thomas Street.

Free and open to anyone in need. Call the Rev. Danny Rushing at (662) 844-2417.

• 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month in the NMMC North Education Center Room 2. Call Jamie Grissom, NMMC Hospice bereavement coordinator, at (662) 377-3612 or (800) 843-3375.

I Can Cope cancer support group meets at noon the second Friday of the month at Bridgepoint on South Gloster Street. Guest speakers. Lunch provided for cancer survivors and caregivers. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Call coordinator Donna Kingsley at (662) 213-8478.

La Leche League of Lee County meets at 11 a.m. the first Thursday of the month.

All pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are invited to attend. Other LLL services include a lending library and 24-hour telephone help. For information, call Toni at (662) 255-8283.

Lupus Support is available in Northeast Mississippi. Sponsored by the Lupus Foundation of America. Open to anyone interested in lupus. Contact Michelle Harris at (662) 825-0224 or (662) 256-2604.

Man-to-Man support group for prostate cancer meets at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in at NMMC East Tower first floor Diabetes Treatment Center classroom. Contact Gail Denton at (662) 377-3522 or (800) 843-3375.

Mended Hearts, a support group for people who have had heart-bypass surgery, heart disease or other physical ailments of the heart, meet in: • Oxford -Noon the second Wednesday of the month at in the Magnolia room at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford. Call Marian Leggett at (662) 259-2856 • Tupelo - 5:45 p.m. the last Thursday of each month at Room 21 of the NMMC East Tower Education Center. Dinner available for $11; RSVP required for dinner. Call Frances Cobb at (662) 840-4335 to register.

Mother to Mother breastfeeding support group meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month in the OCH Regional Medical Center WIC Lactation Clinic on the fourth floor. Mothers will have chance to speak with professionals and network with other moms.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group-Tupelo meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Contact Allison Hollo-

way at (662) 231-5829, Karan Woods at (662) 231-9160 or (800) 843-3375.

Narcotics Anonymous, a community-based association of recovering drug addicts, meets in the region • Tupelo -t6 p.m. Sunday, Monday and Wednesday and 7:30 p.m.. Saturday at the Helping Hands building, 314 S. Church St. • Groups also meet in Ackerman, Amory, Booneville, Bruce, Corinth, New Albany, Oxford, Pontotoc, Ripley and Starkville.

New Moms Support Group meets at 10:30 a.m. Fridays at the Breast Feeding Resource Center at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi. Open to all new moms. Call (662) 513-1602.

The North MS Pediatric Cancer Support Group (PECANS) is available to families facing pediatric cancer. Call Teresa Farris at (662) 791-1228 or visit North MS PeCanS Facebook page.

Northeast Mississippi Down Syndrome Society offers support and information resources for families of children with Down Syndrome. Call (662) 871-2387, e-mail nemdss@bellsouth.net or visit the group’s Facebook page.

Ovarian Cancer Support group meets the first Monday of the month at the Women First Resource Center, 215 N. Gloster, Suite D. Call (662) 422-1938.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group-Tupelo meets at 3 p.m. the first Sunday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Call (662) 377-4348.

A Sexual Assault Support Group meets at 1 p.m. every Wednesday. Call (800) 5277233 for location.

Sisters Network, Tupelo chapter of the African-American breast cancer survivor’s support group, meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of the month at the Link Centre in Tupelo. The group plans to hold a community health fair and other events this spring. Call Norma Derring at (662) 842-3440.

Stepping Stones cancer support group meets at 4 p.m. the last Monday of the month at NMMC Cancer Center. Open to cancer survivors and their caregivers. Call social worker Cindy Edwards at (662)3774049 or (800) 843-3375.

Stroke support groups meet in: • Tupelo - 5 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month in NMMC East Tower Room 21. Call Stacy Scruggs at (662) 377-4058.

• Starkville – 10 a.m. Feb. 17, April 13 and June 15 at the OCH Regional education room. For more info, call the speech djournal.com

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language pathology department at (662) 615-3030.

Survivors of child sexual abuse support group meets at 1 p.m. Wednesdays. Call (800) 527-7233 for location.

T.A.A.P. (Teen Addiction Awareness Program) is a free 10-week program offered by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence building, 200 N. Spring St., Tupelo. The program, which meets for 90 minutes once a week, is open to teens age 13-18. There will be educational sessions on every aspect of drug and alcohol use and abuse. Call NCADD at (662) 8410403 or www.ncadd.net.

TOPS, a weight loss support group, has four chapters meeting in Northeast Mississippi. Fees are $28 for annual membership; $14 for spouses and teens. Call area captain Brittany Harris at (662) 251-5818, state coordinator Pat Harris at (662) 386-0249 or (800) 932-8677 or visit www.tops.org.

• Tupelo: 4:45 p.m. Thursdays at Salvation Army Building at 527 Carnation St.; • Aberdeen: 5 p.m. Tuesdays at Southside Baptist Church on Meridian Street.

Tupelo Lost Chords Club meets at noon the fourth Thursday of the month at the Longtown Medical Park conference room in Tupelo. The club is open to all laryngectomees, spouses of laryngectomees and interested professionals. Call Lisa Renfroe at (662) 377-3248.

Weight Loss Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. The group provides education and emotional support for those considering or have gone through bariatric surgery. Contact (662) 377-7546 or (866) 908-9465.

Women with Cancer support group, sponsored by the Women First Resource Center, is available in Amory. Call (662) 325-0721.

Women with Cancer support group meets at 5:30 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the Women First Resource Center, 215 N. Gloster, Suite D, in Tupelo.

Call (662) 842-5725.

Events In July

HealthWorks! Summer Fun camps will be offered in July at the children’s health education center in Tupelo. Cost is $30 for half day camp; $55 for full day; $20 for Hip Hopper camps. Discounts for members and multiple camps. Stay in play option. Call (662) 377-5437 or visit healthworkskidsms. org: Wacky Wednesdays: 9 a.m. to noon through July 27. For ages 5-12.

July 11: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Road to Rio! For ages 8-12 July 12: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. A Handful of High Hives; 12:30-3:30 p.m. Crazy Carnival. For ages 5-8 July 14: 10-11 a.m. Hip Hoppers Crash, Bang Vroom; for ages 3-5 July 19: 8:30-11:30 a.m. DIY-Create Station; 12:30-3:30 p.m. “Water” You Made Of? For ages 8-12 July 21: 10-11 a.m. Hip Hopper Jammin’ Jungle; For ages 3-5 July 25: 8:30 a.m. -3:30 p.m. Passport to Fun, For ages 8-12 July 26: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Road to Rio; 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Deputy for a Day. For Ages 5-8 July 28: 10-11 a.m. Hip Hoppers Bubble Trouble. For ages 3-5

Starting July 12

Trim-Life, a six-week integrative weight management workshop, will start July 12 at Ascend Holistic Therapy in Tupelo, in conjunction with Conscious Healing Therapies. Cost is $450. Call (662) 322-9462 or email ascendholistictherapy@gmail.com

Aug. 13

Weston Reed Foundation youth physicals will be offered 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 13 at the Police Athletic League building at 204 Douglas Street. Free sports physicals including EKG and follow up echocardiogram if needed. Open to students 6th grade and above. No appointment necessary.

Aug. 9

Annual Good Samaritan Free Clinic Roast will be Aug. 9 at the Summit in Tupelo. Honoree will be Jimmy Long of MLM Clothiers. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $100 and must be purchased in advance. Call (662) 844-3733.

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Starting Aug. 15

Families in Transformation program for children 6-12 with their parent/guardian who want to be healthy will run from Aug. 15 to Oct. 6. Includes exercise and nutrition education three evenings a week.

Cost $25 for first parent and child and $10 for each additional child. On successful completion, families receive a $100 grocery gift card. Apply by Aug. 7. Call (662) 3775437 or visit healthworkskidsms.org for information, application.

Aug. 27

NMMC Baby Fair will be 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 27 at NMMC Women’s Hospital in Tupelo. Free. Infant-toddler CPR, newborn care classes, information, shopping, door prizes. Call (662) 377-4099 or (800) 843-3375.

Sept. 15

Senior Health Fair will be held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 15 at the BancorpSouth Center in Tupelo. Hosted by Merit Health Gilmore Memorial. Free glucose screenings, health information.

Oct. 8

NMMC Women’s Hospital NICU reunion will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 8. Refreshments, games and prizes For children who were cared for in the NICU and their families. Call (800) 843-3375.

Oct. 20-22

Celebration Village, a holiday market, will be Oct. 20-22 at the Tupelo Furniture Market. Benefits Sanctuary Hospice.

Tickets will be available starting Sept. 15 through sanctuaryhospicehouse.com and local outlets.

Oct. 22

Komen North Mississippi Race for the Cure will be held at 8 a.m. at Fairpark in downtown Tupelo. Event funds local grants to provide access to breast cancer screening and community education and national research through Komen for the Cure.

Online registration will open in August at komennorthms.org.

Nov. 15

Diabetes Health & Awareness Fair will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 15 at the Starkville Sportsplex. Hosted by OCH Regional. Health screenings and information.

Free. Call (662) 615-2668.

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The Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s In

Relief for Chronic Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as acid reflux, affects more than 60 million Americans.

It can occur when the lower esophageal sphincter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a ring-shaped muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach â&#x20AC;&#x201C; does not close properly, allowing stomach acid to back up into the esophagus.

Severe, chronic heartburn is called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. The main symptom of GERD in adults is frequent, burning pain in the lower part of the chest, behind the breast bone, and in the abdomen. If a person regularly experiences heartburn more than twice a week, they are considered to have GERD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases The exact cause of GERD is unknown; however, factors known to contribute to heartburn and GERD include obesity, pregnancy, and smoking, as well as consuming spicy, fried or fatty foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, and caffeinated drinks.

Whether you have heartburn, regurgitation, swallowing difficulties or even symptoms in your throat, such as cough and hoarseness, GERD can make your life miserable. It affects eating habits, work productivity, sleep and your overall quality of life. Some try to modify their lifestyle; others take antacids or other over-the-counter medications. When left untreated, your esophagus can become damaged and there may be more serious medical problems.

Some patients, including those who have been taking acid reducing medications for at least six months, as well as those with continued symptoms while on these medications may have an advanced condition requiring more than just medication for relief. Minimally invasive surgical procedures that restore function of the damaged lower esophageal sphincter are available. These procedures may reduce or eliminate the

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reflux.

A laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is a minimally invasive procedure traditionally offered to those who have failed medical management.

A newer procedure involves placement of a magnetic ring of beads encircling the esophageal sphincter, just above the stomach. The magnetic attraction between the beads helps keep the weakened esophageal sphincter closed, thus helping to prevent reflux. The beads will temporarily separate during swallowing which allows food and liquid to pass easily into the stomach.

The device is implanted using a standard minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. Patients are placed under general anesthesia during the procedure. This particular procedure does not require any anatomic alteration of the stomach. Most patients go home the day after surgery and resume a normal diet.

If you have GERD, you do not have to suffer. There is technology that can test the function of your esophagus, measure acid levels and evaluate for more serious conditions. By identifying the frequency and duration of reflux, doctors can work with you to develop a treatment plan specialized for your condition and needs, whether it is medications or minimally invasive surgery. Talk to your medical provider about your heartburn and reflux symptoms today.

Remember that this information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, but rather to increase awareness and help equip patients with information and facilitate conversations with your physician that will benefit your health.

Dr. Hoat M. Hoang is a board certified general surgeon with the Amory Surgery Clinic.

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