mastHEAD cover
publisher
kellyWALGAMOTTE
editor
lanaWALGAMOTTE
marketing
October
scotANTHONY
2014
Page 16 Cover Story: Ion Alkaline Water Modle: brittanyTAYLOR Hair & Makeup by: erinGLISSON Cover Photo taken at: Iron Works Gym, Biloxi
volume5 NUMBER 10
account executive gregFLORIDI
chief designer chrisTIBLIER
contributing writers
lindaCUCCIA mikeMILLS melissaBRELAND larryMcEWEN garyDRAGON kristieANDRES travisMANNY kristenSMITH
Distribution in: New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Westbank, Slidell, Mandeville, Covington, Hammond, & Southwest Mississippi
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page 8
Tid BITS
runnersCORNER
page 10
page 14
supplementREVIEW
page 24 Fitness Professionals by lisaBOLOGNA
chiroTALK
page 14 Breast Cancer: Identify Early Warning Signs
page 28 Exercise Why You Should Do It
page 16 Ion Alkaline Water
by aaronPOTTS
by lisaBOLOGNA
page 13
healthyEATS
by staffWRITER
Copyright 2012 by Metro Fitness. No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written, expressed consent of the publisher. Reproduction of editorial content or graphics in any manner or in any medium is prohibited. Opinions of staff & contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. For advertising information, contact Metro Fitness business department at 985-778-6171 fax at 985-201-8165 or e-mail at metrofitness@live.com. Letters to the Editor are Welcome – send signed letters to P.O. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459. Please include a phone number for verification (it will not be published). E-mail letters to metrofitness@live.com. The Editor reserves the right to edit for length, style and spelling. Postmaster: Send address changes to Metro Fitness P.0. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459
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by brandonLEWIS
page 22 Get Checked or Check Out Metro Fitness is published monthly by Metro Fitness P.O. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459, 985778-6171.
page 26 Health Benefits of Avocados
INSPIRATIONALNOTES There once was a farmer who discovered that he had lost his watch in the barn. It was no ordinary watch because it had sentimental value for him. After searching high and
page 14
spiritualFITNESS
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low among the hay for a long while; he gave up and enlisted the help of a group of children playing outside the barn. He promised them that the person who found it would be rewarded. Hearing this, the children hurried inside the barn, went through and around the entire stack of hay but still could not find the watch. Just when the farmer was about to give up looking for his watch, a little boy went up to him and asked to be given another chance. The farmer looked at him and thought, “Why not? After all, this kid looks sincere enough.” So the farmer sent the little boy back in the barn. After a while the little boy came out with the watch in his hand! The farmer was both happy and surprised and so he asked the boy how he succeeded where the rest had failed. The boy replied, “I did nothing but sit on the ground and listen. In the silence, I heard the ticking of the watch and just looked for it in that direction.” Allow a few minutes of silence to your mind every day, and see, how sharply it helps you to set your life the way you expect it to be! The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind.
God Bless, Kelly Walgamotte (985) 778-6171 • metrofitness@live.com
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Eat More Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains People who eat healthy, mostly unprocessed foods, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and limited amounts of lean animal protein, often find that they can eat as much as they want without gaining weight. If they are switching from a diet containing lots of processed foods, they find that they can eat more yet consume fewer calories -- and they lose weight. Historically, the Chinese ate mostly rice and vegetables with a little lean meat for protein and flavor, nothing like the American Chinese restaurant dishes of deep fried sweet and sour pork. A step back to more natural foods would improve our health and waistlines.
For a Better Night Sleep Many people use the television to fall asleep or relax at the end of the day. You may even have a television in your bedroom. However, television actually stimulates the mind, rather than relaxing it. Part of this is due to content. Late night news and prime time shows frequently have disturbing, violent material. Even non–violent programming can have commercials that are jarring and loud. However, even the most relaxing program or movie can interfere with the body’s clock due to the continuous flickering light coming from the TV or computer screen. Television is also noisy, which can disturb sleep if the set is accidentally left on. You may be so used to falling asleep to the TV that you have trouble without it for the first few nights. If you find you miss the noise, try soft music or a fan. If your favorite show is on late at night, record it for viewing earlier in the day.
Areas of the Face That Age First
Facts on Metabolism
The earliest changes occur in the most mobile areas of the face. This means that the Crow's feet in the lateral corners of the eyes are often the first wrinkles to appear. Other areas include the lines between the lateral nose and corners of the mouth, the so-called nasolabial folds. Other features of the aging face are the transverse wrinkles of the brow, vertical creases in the midline of the brow (glabellar creases), or jowling in the line of the chin, below the corners of the mouth. Also, a more generalized, and subtle change is the loss of facial soft-tissue volume over time. This effect can be partially reversed with fat grafting in the areas of deficiency. Avoid the sun!!! Sun exposure is the number one cause of premature wrinkles. If you must be out in the sun, wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Tanning beds have also been proven to cause cancer and wrinkle your skin.
1. The amount of calories you burn varies with the type of food you eat. You burn more calories to breakdown a steak than a banana. Very few calories are expanded in breaking down simple sugars. 2. The resting metabolism or the metabolic rate depends on age, gender, physical condition, the amount of fat and muscle in your body. • Younger people have higher (faster) metabolism because of the increased activity of cells. • You had a very high metabolism at your birth. At mid thirties, metabolism slows by 3 to 5 % per decade. By age 55, you require 150 fewer calories per day than in your mid thirties. For that reason, you should cut back on calories or increase your activity level to burn more calories, otherwise you will store addineuron's ability to respond to chemical mestional fat in your body resulting in increased weight. sengers and discourage the formation of blood • Men generally have a 10-15% faster BMR than clotting. Spinach is an antioxidant powerwomen because male body has greater percentage of house, bursting with betacarotene, vitamin C lean muscle tissues. and folic acid. These contain betacarotene, 3. Exercise can increase your BMR. Basal Metabolic Rate can be calculated by the folvitamin C and folic acid and other compounds lowing formula of the World Health Organization. that keep blood vessels supple and help transBMR for port nerve impulses more efficiently. Female = [ 655+(9.6 x Weight in kilogram) + (1.7 x Height in centimeter) - (4.7 x Age) ] Male = [ 66+(13.7 x Weight in kilogram) + (5 x Height in centimeter) - (6.8 x Age) ]
Improve Memory, Boost Memory Blueberries, Strawberries, Jambu Fruit (Jamun) and Spinach for M e m o r y Improvement: Brain boosters such as these are rich in anthocyanins, formidable antioxidants in deep red and purple pigments. They protect brain cells and the
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RACE 
SCHEDULE Volkslauf Mud Run
Save Yourself and Identify the Early Warning Signs of Breast Cancer
October 11th 5K Walk/Run Audubon Park Riverview nolarunning.com
Breast cancer has been one of the leading health concerns for women. For over 3,600 years the cancer has affected the lives of women in immeasurable ways. According to the Edwin Smith papyrus, awareness of breast cancer has been well established since 1600 BC in Egypt, thus making it the oldest form of cancer known to humans. "There is no treatment", this is what early Egyptian physicians writes about breast cancer according to the papyrus and for centuries this has been the attitude displayed by both health practitioners and patients. But while the Egyptians have considered the disease incurable, we now have medical advancements that make survival almost an absolute certainty at early stages. All we need is a firm knowledge on warning signs of the cancer and the determination to go through the treatment process.
Roadkill Run
What are the Causes of Breast Cancer?
October 4th 5 Miles SEABEE base, Gulfport, MS run-n-tri.com
The Monster Dash October 11th 5K River Shack Tavern cschwartzmann@cff.org 504-455-5194
Walk for Education
October 11th 5K & 10K Infinity Science Center Pearlington, MS Rotary Club of Stennis Space Center
Run For the Warriors October 12th 5k/1 mile run/1mile walk Convention Center • NOLA Heather Busicchia (910) 381-8272
Oktoberfest 5K October 18th 5:00 p.m. 5K Rivertown, Kenner runnotc.org
Freret 5K October 18th 1/2 mike and 5K Run/Walk Bloomin' Deals Thrift Shop nolarunning.com
Susan G Komen Race for the Cure October 25th 5K/1 Mile City Park nolarunning.com
About one in eight women will be diagnosed with this cancer in a lifetime. There are several risk factors which are part of our lives that we could not change. This includes aging, familial history, genetics and menstrual cycle. The risk of getting cancer becomes higher as a person ages. Advanced cancer stages are commonly found in women fifty years old and above. About thirty percent of women who have breast cancer have a family history of breast, ovarian, uterine or ovarian cancer. Some people have gene defects that make them more susceptible to acquiring the disease. This includes defects commonly found in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Women with these gene defects have an eighty percent chance of getting breast cancer. Those who have started menstruation before the age of twelve or went through menopause after the age of fiftyfive have higher breast cancer risk. Women who never had children or gave birth only after the age of thirty also have an increased risk for breast cancer. Other risk factors include alcohol consumption, obesity, hormone replacement therapy to avert menopause, the use of the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) to prevent miscarriage, and radiation. Curiously, there is no evidence linking the use of breast implants, antiperspirants, pesticides and underwire bras in raising cancer risks.
What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer? Undergoing regular breast examination is important in detecting cancerous growths because in early stages, cancer of the breast may not manifest any symptom at all. As the cancer develops women may experience one or a combination of the following. A painless hard lump with uneven edges in the breast or armpit area. Noticeable change in size, shape, feel and texture of the breast and nipple. Unusual fluids, such as pus, coming out of the nipple. For women who are in advanced breast cancer stages, symptoms may include bone pain, pain and discomfort in the breast area, skin ulcers in the breast or underarm, weight loss, and swelling of one arm.
How to Prevent Breast Cancer? Since some risk factors are uncontrollable, awareness is the most important step in fighting the disease. In general, having a healthy diet and lifestyle reduces a person's chance of getting cancer. Early detection of the cancer raises the cure rate and thus, breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast examination and screening mammography are highly recommended. Experts advise BSE once a month for women over twenty. The test should be done a week after their menstruation. For those between the ages of twenty to thirty-nine, clinical examination should be done every three years. Women above the age of forty are generally advised to undergo a complete breast examination and mammography once a year. Breast MRI should also be done for women who are have higher breast cancer risk factors. Certain drugs, such as Tamoxifen, are approved by the USDA for cancer prevention in women aged thirty-five or older. Preventive prophylactic mastectomy, or the surgical removal of the breast, is advised for those who already had one breast removed and for those who are identified to have genetic mutations that raise tumor risks. Don't fall victim to breast cancer. Identify the early warning signs and find out about symptoms and treatment options today. To find out more on how to identify breast cancer symptoms talk to your doctor.
supplementREVIEW by: mikeMILLS “Whey-ing” the options available for Protein powders Many doctors are now suggesting a diet that is higher in protein to help prevent obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and various other serious health issues. Consuming a high amount of protein through food alone can be very difficult and quite expensive; however protein is now available in powder form to mix up in a “shake” which makes the protein more enjoyable to consume on a daily basis. These protein powders come in various flavors that can be combined with ingredients such as fresh fruit, fat free milk, and all natural peanut butters, to make a great tasting high protein smoothie. Many different types of protein are available to purchase in retail health food and vitamin stores. Soy, egg, casein, and whey protein are the most popular kinds of protein being used today, but which one
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is the best? Soy protein is widely used by women wanting to increase their estrogen production; however this increase in estrogen can also lead to an increase in body fat percentage, so women wanting to tone up and men that already have a higher body fat percentage might want to avoid soy. Egg protein powder is highly absorbable and great for people that have milk, soy, and wheat allergies, although the taste can be quite undesirable at times, think back to Sylvester Stallone drinking a glass of egg whites in the movie “Rocky”, which is a pretty accurate description of what the after taste of egg protein powders are like. Casein protein, which is derived from milk protein, is a slow digesting protein that is ideally used in the evening as a night time pro-
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tein powder. The average person sleeps for about six to eight hours each night, and if protein is not available during this period, the body will start breaking down muscle tissue to use as a protein source, which can lead to catabolism and loss of lean muscle mass which results in an increase in body fat percentage. A slower digesting protein, such as casein, can help prevent this from occurring. Whey protein is without a doubt the most popular form of protein being used in protein powders today. Whey protein is digested quickly, tastes great, and helps repair muscle tissue after exercise. Whey protein increases lean muscle mass, which ultimately lowers overall body fat percentage. Whey protein powder will help keep the sensation of being full to avoid over consumption of calories and to curb appetite. There are two kinds of whey protein powders available, whey protein
concentrate, and whey protein isolate. Studies have shown that 100% whey protein isolate has a much higher absorption rate than whey protein concentrate, so be sure and read the ingredients label on the back of the bottle when choosing the correct protein powder to be certain that it is 100% whey protein isolate and not a mixture of whey protein concentrate and isolate, which cheaper brands try to pass as whey protein isolate, by advertising whey protein isolate in bold all over the front of the bottle’s label. Also, which sweetener is used in the protein powder can directly affect your health. The all natural sweetener, Stevia, which is derived from the Stevia plant, has been gaining popularity with diabetics as of late due to the fact that it has a much lower glycemic index than sucralose (splenda) or aspartame, and has no effect on blood glucose levels, which will help keep blood sugar levels balanced. A 100% whey protein isolate
powder, that contains zero fat, zero sugar, zero cholesterol, and that is sweetened with stevia is currently the best choice for losing weight and leading a healthy lifestyle.
Mike Mills is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, has a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), and 10+ years experience in the Vitamin and Supplement Industry.
runnersCORNER Four Reasons to Run Running is one of those activities that you either love or hate. However even if you don't like to run, it should be part of your daily exercise regiment. Running is one of the top cardiovascular exercises. It is great for your body, mind and spirit. Here are the reasons you need to get motivated to start running. Burn Calories and Lose Weight Compared to other cardiovascular workouts running beats the competition in burning calories. It's one of the most vigorous exercises to lose weight. Running uses every muscle in the body, increase the heart rate and blood flow, fringing nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. As you run blood is forced down through the legs and pushed back up to the heart. Which in turn is pumped through the heart and back out to the body. The faster you run, the harder your heartbeats and the faster it works, making the heart stronger. The better you get, the
longer distances you can run, and the faster you can run, the stronger your muscles will get and the more weight you will lose. For those of a healthy weight, running will help your maintain it. Stress Relief When we exercise our body releases endorphins, happy hormones, which relieve stress. Endorphins are neurotransmitters, released during times of stress such as long, continuous workouts. Upon release into the body they create feelings of euphoria, happiness, and ease. This can create what's known as a "runners high".
dragon’sCORNER It eases stress, reduces irritation and relieves tension. By concentrating on the body's movements while running, you can clear your mind of stressful situations, giving you a clearer outlook on life. Running is a great way to increase self-confidence and treat symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. Good for joints Because running requires the constant movement of the legs and the force from striking the ground goes up through the legs many believe that running will ruin your knees. As opposed to popular belief, osteoarthritis is caused by cartilage breakdown, which occurs as we age and is worsened by excess weight. Runners especially experienced runners are normally of a healthy weight, which significantly reduces the risk of osteoarthritis. In reality running protects cartilage, it doesn't destroy it. Running shields the knee from arthritis because the knee develops a motion groove that loads the cartilage during regular movements such as walking and running. Running increases the heart rate, which in turn increases oxygen and blood flow to the knee and flushes out toxins. Running also strengthens the ligaments and muscles around the joints such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexors and core abdominals. Strong support structure keeps the knee balanced and in proper alignment. This reduces the risk for injury to the knee. Disease Prevention The health benefits of exercise are abundant, and as one of the most effective and efficient exercise, running produces major benefits. Running has great ability to prevent and fight disease. Many of the major diseases can be greatly affected by exercise. A sedentary lifestyle, inactivity and unhealthy habits lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and cancer. Running reduces the risk for many kinds of cancer including colon, breast, endometrial and lung. It reduces the chances for diabetes, stroke and heart disease. Running lowers blood pressure, reduces bad cholesterol, raises good cholesterol, and boosts the body's immunity to fight off colds and flu. Running can also help prevent vision loss caused by macular degeneration and cataracts.
The Elimination of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) garyDRAGON Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) occurs as a result of overuse
injury and develops over time (and is often ignored in the
or misuse of the body and it generally affects the upper
early stages), a physical therapy rehabilitation program is
extremities. RSI usually occur in the fingers, elbows and
essential. It provides a long-term solution to prevent fur-
wrists. The wrist joint experiences a great deal of stress as
ther injury and regain quality of life. As your physical ther-
it is constantly used to perform simple exercises such as
apists, we know that daily life comes with its fair share of
push-ups and bench press. The stress placed on the soft tis-
stress, and we don't want you to have to deal with yet
sue (muscles, tendons, nerves, arteries and veins) of the
another source of (physical) stress in the form of RSI.
extremities results in compression or entrapment as a
Call us today to learn how we can help you recover from RSI
result of inflammation.
and get you back on track with your job, and your life.
The rule of thumb is to reduce further strain and rest the
Don’t let repetitive strains keep you from working out.
limb that is hurting. It is important to identify the symp-
Action Physical Therapy will customize a rehab program to
toms as early as possible and seek help. In order to prevent
get you back in the gym and back into ACTION.
further injury and the resulting disability of RSI, it is best to seek the advice of a physical therapist. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to serious conditions such as Carpal tunnel syndrome CTS, Tendonitis, and Tenosynovitis. The goal of physical therapy in RSI is to reduce pain, improve motion and restore strength. Since RSI is a chronic
Gary Dragon, owner of Action Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, has a Master’s & Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. Gary has 13 years of experience specializing in orthopedic and sports related injuries.
healthyEATS Chicken and Swiss chard soup robHOWELL Swiss chard is a great green leafy veggie that goes good in soups and stews. It can be found in most grocery stores or grown easy in the home garden. You can also substitute spinach or kale in this recipe. The recipe is a great way to get a lot of nutrition into one bowl of soup! This recipe can be easily modified for the Paleo life style as well. With the weather chilling down at night this is a perfect meal, and it doesn’t take a lot of dishes.
To Make: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven and add the oil, and then add the: peppers, onions, garlic, and spices. Cook until veggies are soft. Next add the chicken and cook until just cooked not all the way done. Last add the broth and everything else and cook until the veggies are the desired softness about 20-25 minutes on low-med heat. Salt and pepper if needed and enjoy!
Ingredients: 1-2 tbsp olive oil 9 cups of low sodium broth 2 lbs cubed chicken breasts or turkey breasts raw ( seasoned with salt and pepper) 1 lg sweet potato or yam diced into cubes 1 med yellow onion diced 1 red bell pepper diced
1 large carrot diced or several baby carrots 1 bunch of Swiss chard chopped 1 bunch of green onions sliced 1 tbsp Italian seasoning ½ tsp red pepper flake 2 tsp chopped garlic 2 bay leaves ½ tsp thyme 2 tsp rice wine vinegar
Resistance training by: dr kristinSMITH We moved safely and so should you! Our office recently moved to our new location in Olde Towne Slidell. So this means we've spent the last few weeks lifting, packing, moving, organizing, and settling in to our new office space. All that work got us thinking...what are some guidelines for moving that could help someone to make sure they don't hurt themselves. Here goes! The most important thing is to know what you are attempting to move. So, first things first, make sure to check the object before you try to lift it. This means a few things. First, test every load before you lift by pushing the object lightly with your hands or feet to see how easily it moves. This tells you about how heavy it is. Next you'll want to check to see that the load you want to lift is packed correctly. This means making sure that the weight is packed down tightly so it won't move around and cause you to adjust mid-lift. Loose pieces inside the box can cause an accident if the box become unbalanced. Is the object you are trying to reach easy to reach? You should not have to arch your back or reach for an object. Make sure you are as close to the box as possible and slide it towards you before you lift it if at all possible. Make sure it's your arms and legs doing the majority of the work and not your back . This is a very easy way to avoid any kind of unnecessary back injury. When lifting the object make sure you do it slowly and smoothly because hurried movements can strain muscles in your back. Also, make sure that you are keeping the object as close to your body when you lift it. Twisting while lifting can put undue stress on your back. Try to take small breaks every hour just to make sure that you're giving your body a little bit of rest and recovery during moving process so that muscle fatigue doesn't affect your ability to lift proudly. Also, make sure that you're staying is hydrated as possible so that your muscles and joints will be able to perform properly. Moving can be an arduous and tiring task, but it shouldn't have to be a dangerous one. Be careful when you move and your body will be thankful. We can't wait to see you at our new office in Old Town. Please visit us at 2247 Carey Street. We'd love for you to check out our new space!
Dr. Kristin Smith LifeCare Family Wellness & Chiropractic (985) 774-9303
by: Dr. Larry T. McEwen Senior Pastor, Northshorechurch.net
In the world of physical fitness, the benefits of resistance training are well known. “Resistance training is any exercise that causes the muscles to contract against an external resistance with the expectation of increases in strength, tone, mass, and/or endurance.” (emedicinehealth.com) Traditional resistance training consists of some type of weightlifting. When you attempt to pick up a weight, that weight will resist being picked up, so you exercise the strength of your muscle to overcome the resistance of the weight. If you repeat this process a certain number of times, and over a certain amount of time, your muscles will grow and strengthen. As I was thinking about spiritual fitness, it occurred to me, there are similarities. The Bible is a pretty weighty book, not in pounds, but in truth! When we pick it up to read it, there will be resistance, not resistance from the Bible itself, but resistance from other things. Prayer is no different. A human being actually talking to The Creator God is a heavy concept! Again, the resistance does not come from prayer itself, but from other things. Where does the resistance come from? Maybe it’s your schedule—I’m so busy; or maybe it’s pride—I’ve got this. It might even be the pressure of those who consider it strange in a modern world to read ancient Scripture or pray to a God you can’t even see—what will other people think? It could even be
fear—I might be confronted with truth I’m not ready for. Here’s the beauty of resistance training: when you pick up the Bible and lift up your prayers in spite of the resistance, you will grow spiritually and become stronger in your walk with God! You will find it was worth the time! You’ll welcome the help! You won’t worry about what other people think, and the truth you feared will actually be a lifesaver! Here’s the way the Psalmist put it: Psa 119:27 Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders. Psa 119:28 My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. Psa 119:29 Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me through your law. Psa 119:30 I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. Psa 119:31 I hold fast to your statutes, O LORD; do not let me be put to shame. Psa 119:32 I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.
Don’t let Exercise-Induced Asthma Stop you. Exercise-Induced Asthma Symptoms usually begin about five to 20 minutes after beginning to exercise. The symptoms often peak about five to 10 minutes after stopping exercise then gradually diminish. The symptoms are typically gone within an hour, but they may last longer.
Symptoms include one or a combination of the following: Coughing, Wheezing, Chest tightness, Chest pain Prolonged shortness of breath Extreme fatigue.
Northshore Allergy & Immunology, LLCNAI, LLC Office (985) 792-4022 NEW LOCATION: 355 Lakeview CT. Covington, LA 70433
Richard J Guillot, M.D. Board Certified In Adult & Pediatric Allergy & Immunology
If someone showed you a proven simple, and effective way to fight back against all disease including cancer would you do it? Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg proved to the medical world that “No disease, including cancer can exist in an alkaline environment.” You have probably heard this statement before and never realized that it is a proven established medical fact. There is not a single doctor or hospital that can disprove, or will deny the validated proof by Dr. Warburg. Today there actually is a very effective way that you can fight back against life-threatening diseases. A product that probably would have sent Dr. Warburg dancing in the streets because it best represents an effective way to fight back against disease and will alkalize the human body. The owners of Ion Alkaline Water, RJ and Gail, are all too familiar with how to fight against disease and cancer. They know that bringing your body into an alkaline condition is an important factor of life, and should be for everyone. Gail is a very rare pancreatic cancer survivor. She who had a Whipple (operation) performed by renowned surgeon Dr. Bolton at Ochsner. After surgery Gail decided to forgo the normal recommended chemotherapy and radiation and she has had three clean scans. Gail feels that the active hydrogen in Ion Alkaline Water was a major contributing part of her recovery. Bringing her body into an alkaline condition is the most consistent and prevalent change along with a few other options she made to her lifestyle. RJ suffered from severe very painful gout for over 30 years spending 20 days a month limping or on crutches. He could not walk across a mall and suffered from swollen knees and joints. Now he walks all day. As the owners of the national franchise, the Northshore city of Mandeville was picked as their pilot store for Ion Alkaline Water purifiers. Three new franchise locations are opening in other states and another new location is in the works for Metairie soon. The store offers many alternative health options that detox, purify, and wash acids from your body while infusing your body with active hydrogen from alkaline water purifiers. So how does one alkalize their body? By simply drinking REAL hydrogen infused alkaline water daily. It will flush toxins and reduce your total body acidity. Real hydrogen infused alkaline water is the world’s strongest antioxidant. It is stronger than any other food or supplement. This fact gives it the power to stop free radical attacks instantly. You can boosts your immune system, improve colon health, and hydrate your body 6-8 times faster than water. Did I mention this is very clean nice tasting water?
“They love to prove to you, and your doctor that by drinking real HYDROGEN INFUSED alkaline water you can lower your blood pressure, blood sugar, and reduce your cholesterol.”
Cover Feature
by: lisaBOLOGNA
After taking apart over 50 alkaline water units from all over the world RJ was shocked at the shoddy parts he found in some of the expensive units. “We have the best purifiers and I will challenge anyone to outdo our units. Paying a high price does not necessarily mean you have a good quality unit. I own interest in three companies that assemble our purifiers so our prices are great because you effectively are buying direct. Our desire is to reach people as economically as possible for them to enjoy the health benefits.” The store offers counter top, and some really nice under the counter alkaline water purifiers. The units were also designed to move when you do. They all dispense customized levels of alkaline, purified, and acidic water for multiple uses. The store offers a protocol that you can join and save additional money when you purchase a purifier. They love to prove to you, and your doctor that by drinking real HYDROGEN INFUSED alkaline water you can lower your blood pressure, blood sugar, and reduce your cholesterol. Since opening the store, many of the stores protocol participants claim many other personal medical victories as well. Some have stopped taking type II diabetes medications, acid reflux gone, and prostate cancer at a standstill, gout reduced or gone, hands that used to shake, shake no more. Cancer patients with clear clean scans and some are keeping cancer growth at a standstill. Digestive systems that did not work now work and some in the protocol say that alkalizing their body facilitates weight loss. Nearly everyone agrees to a large boost of energy. Of course this is the part where we are supposed to say results may vary; and they do. But they are some very good results and those obtaining the results are very bold about them. One of the original purposes of the store was to make REAL hydrogen infused alkaline water cheaper than buying and hauling plastic bottled water. “99% of all bottled water is ACIDIC. Bring me your bottled water and I will prove it to you. I think everyone deserves to have access to this healthy, super clean, pure great tasting water. As consumers people should never have to worry about chemically polluted tap, well, or the dangerous BPA plastic in bottled water. We have the solution for people to fight back against every manner of disease and never fear about having quality drinking water again. If you change your water, it will change your world.” At the present time RJ says there is no such
thing as real hydrogen infused alkaline being offered in bottled water available commercially. The bottles being sold as alkaline water in the stores are not REAL hydrogen infused alkaline water. The only way to get real hydrogen infused alkaline water is directly from the source purifier and it must be consumed it within 24-48 hours. The purifiers were also designed to produce a high quality acidic water that is used to rinse fruits, vegetables and meats. It kills bacteria in 30 seconds and washes off farm residue. There have also been great protocol results with customers using the acidic water to treat acne, sore throats, mouth sores, even athlete’s feet. The acidic water is great for sanitizing kitchen counters and floors. This beats using chemicals. You really need to see this demonstration live in the store.
continued on pg. 21
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Alkaline Water Continued Now you can have one of these amazing purifiers in your home at an affordable price. Rental units are available on a monthly basis and require a minimum six month rental starting at $29.00. Your first six months rental goes towards the purchase price if you decide to buy or trade up to another unit. The payments and security deposit are transferable. The store also carries everything from organic stevia, to BPA FREE fruit infusion water bottles. A new organic easy burn energy cube called Legal Cheaters are absolutely yummy. Infrared Detox Saunas with 6 exciting models on the showroom floor. The health benefits of Infrared are well established: detoxify and cleanse, pain relief, heart health, lower blood pressure, weight loss, cell health, wound healing, circulation, anti-aging and purification, and relaxation. Infrared saunas work by increasing your core temperature 2-3 degrees and penetrates the body up to 2 inches to help release the impurities in the body through the pores of the skin. Home infrared detox saunas have an opening price at only $2350. The latest invention by RJ is a shower filter that removes all chlorine and adds aroma therapy (light lavender), natural collagen, and vitamin C to your body when you shower. There is a huge demand for the shower units so shop early. Ladies and men are hailing the skin benefits and it makes great gift item. The options for the natural collagen filters start at $79.99 making it another affordable option for any home. Plans to open an infrared detox sauna spa are in place for the near future where you can pay per session and shower afterwards in a collagen shower. Commercial units for restaurants, gyms, and
spas are available at ZERO investment by store owners. Now you can offer REAL hydrogen infused alkaline water to your customers with no upfront costs. Absolutely nothing out of pocket. Call RJ for details. The owners believe in giving back. With the purchase of an Ion Alkaline Water purifier or an infrared sauna, a donation in your name is made to a charity of your choice. Either Mary Bird Perkins, We Vets, or St Jude’s Children’s hospital. Everyone is invited for a live demonstration to test your bottled water and drinks to see the effects on your body of what you are drinking. Hydrogen infused alkaline water beats every sports drink hands down, hydrates 6-8’s faster and delivers high level energy to the body during workouts. Bring a mason jar of your water to the store for a free water analysis.
Ion Alkaline Water 3845 Hwy 22 Suite 2 Mandeville, LA (985) 778 0003
200lbs in over 3 years; with the weight lost he became more active. Working out became a way of life, being an athlete all his life it was a love that he lost and found again. Then in late July 2008 Darryn felt a lump in his groin, he thought he had a simple sports hernia. He met with his doctor and he also confirmed it was a hernia, and scheduled the simple surgery. Once the doctors were in they found out that it was not a hernia, but found two cancerous tumors called Liposarcoma (a rare form of cancer, that lives in the fatty tissue of the organs in the body). Darryn then began radiations treatments with the intent of shrinking the tumors, however after 3 weeks of radiation treatments. He developed an ulcer on his bladder, and the radiation treatments were put to a halt. A surgery date of December 12th, 2008 was set to remove the Liposarcoma tumors (any organ that the Liposarcoma come in contact with, has to be removed). The surgery was scheduled 6 hours, but ended up being 14 hours. The doctors had to remove his large intestine, gallbladder, par t of his colon, right kidney and appendix. During the surgery while attempting to remove the cancer that wrapped itself around the iliac artery his right leg.The iliac artery ruptured and with the massive blood lost, he flat lined. This happened twice during the surgery, before the second time the doctors had decided to remove Darryn’s right leg. The only thing that prevented them from doing this was the second time the iliac artery ruptured. Because the doctors felt that if they would continue with the surgery they may have done more harm than good. So they closed Darryn up with the remaining tumors in his pelvis and around the iliac artery his right leg. Darryn has gone through a year and a half of chemotherapy with no success, so Mrs. Hafez-DeWalt armed with a Masters Degree in Marketing from Marquette University dove right into the world of medicine. Trying to find another method of treatment to rid his body of the remaining cancer. She found an experimental drug “CDK4 Inhibitor” that was being used to slow and reduce the growth of breast cancer. Since starting the drug in January 2014 the 3 remaining tumors have been reduced to two tumors. So the “CDK4 Inhibitor has been a success thus far. Darryn continues to use the CDK4 Inhibitor with the hopes of reducing the final two tumors enough for them to be surgically removed. During all of this going on in their lives, they set forth to help make their community a healthier place. So
A husband and wife super team! Mr. Darryn DeWalt and Mrs. Cherine HafezDeWalt have been delivering dreams for more than 30 years, weather it’s through there 501 c(3) Health Foundation “Get Checked or Check Out or their sports marketing-advertising firm “DeWalt Consulting” that has a network of 65 NFL players and has local advertising clients such as New South Parking at the Louis Armstrong International Airport and All State Insurance clients. They have been delivering on the promise to provide unique branding that are both visually dynamic yet exciting to the audience that it demands. A husband and wife super team! Mr. Darryn DeWalt and Mrs. Cherine Hafez-DeWalt have been delivering dreams for more than 30 years, weather it’s through there 501 c(3) Health Foundation “Get Checked or Check Out or their sports marketing-advertising firm “DeWalt Consulting” that has a network of 65 NFL players and has local advertising clients such as New South Parking at the Louis Armstrong
International Airpor t and All State Insurance clients. They have been delivering on the promise to provide unique branding that are both visually dynamic yet exciting to the audience that it demands. In 2004 Darryn weighed close to 500lbs and chose to have the gastric bypass procedure. He lost over
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by: lisaBOLOGNA
New Orleans has been known as “Fat City”, and the way of living here has definitely supported that name. We love our food, we love our drinks, and we love to party. So why would a group of successful professionals decide to start a fitness certification program here of all places? New Orleans has recently taken a healthy backswing to that unflattering nickname. There are more health clubs, boutique fitness studios, and Cross Fit boxes opening every time you turn around. With the expansion of the health and wellness industry, there has been more demand for fitness instructors and personal trainers. Most of these fitness professionals go through a 1- or 3-day certification, without ever furthering their education or getting support from the certifying agencies. Time and
cost are always issues, since most certifications require traveling out of state. The International Alliance of Fitness Professionals (IAFPros) was formed 18 years ago in the Greater New Orleans area to offer local fitness professionals an affordable, accessible option to the larger agencies that give little support and are often out of reach after certification. By offering the certification in New Orleans, the fitness professionals are saved time and money. This also allows the fitness market to keep expanding locally. The price structure is at an affordable option to everyone beginning at
$129. The IAFPros saw the need for highly educated trainers and instructors that were able to help each individual, safely and responsibly, whether in a personal training setting, small group training, or a large group fitness class. They wanted to see fitness professionals who were mindful about good alignment and form so that students and clients would see less injury and better results. Consulting with some of the most prolific trainers and educators in the fitness world, IAFP was able to write their specialized fitness trainings and secure accreditation through state, national, and international agencies. The quality of IAFPros education is on par with national crediting agencies such as AFAA and ACE. A few of the certifications available through
For Registration information, please call (504) 837-0764 e-mail: louisk499@gmail.com • Web: www.alliancefitnesspros.com
Northshore Gladiator Games Continued
• Alliance Balls Certification • Cardio Kickboxing Certification Course • Cycle Instructor Certification Course IAFPros are: • Functionally Fit For Seniors Without the travel • Group Exercise Leader Certification & hotel costs normally asso• Group Weight Training Certification ciated with certifications, • Indoor Cycling Certification trainers and instructors can afford to become certified in • Mind-Body Yoga Certification multiple disciplines and pur• Nutrition Education Workshop sue continuing education, • Personal Training Certification offering students and clients • Pilates Mat Certification a better experience. With better education comes the • Pilates Reformer Gold Certification ability to teach better form • Senior Functional Fitness so there is no burnout with • Special Needs Population muscles or joints and a healthier community. IAFPros fitness trainings are held in the Metro New Orleans area throughout the year. Log onto IAFPros.com to find the certification choice that will help you to enrich the lives in your fitness community.
the formed a health non-profit “The Choice is Yours! GET CHECKED OR CHECK OUT” – the mission of this 501 c(3) Health Foundation is “To reach men, women and their families where they live, work, play, and pray with community outreach health programs that maintain health prevention messages, tools, screening programs, educational materials, advocacy opportunities, and patient navigation”. The DeWalt agree that some times you have to dangle a carrot in order to get people to do what’s right for themselves and we do it in the way of fun and well planned charity events: Over the past 4 year Get Checked or Check Out has raised and donated tens of thousand of dollars to the American Cancer Society for breast Cancer Research with their “Football Camp For Her” program (coming to Slidell for it’s second consecutive year in November 2014). The program teaches women about the game of football and the instructors are members of the New Orleans Saints football team (visit www.footballcampforher.com for details). This past spring the first annual “Saints Ahoy Charity Fan Cruise” was held it brought together 300 Who Dat Nation fans and Saints players for several fun-filled days on the open seas to Cozumel, Mexico. “That was an incredible event,” Darryn said. “We raised a lot of money for cancer research, and fans got a chance to visit up close with many Saints players.” The second annual “Saints Ahoy Charity Fan Cruise” is now set for March 26-30, 2015, traveling to Cozumel, Mexico, and Darryn said he expects close to 600 people on that trip. For more information please visit www.saintsfancruise.com. “Too many bigger national groups use so much of the money for administration cost and it’s not really helping people as much as it should,” Darryn said. “We want to know what is happening with the money we raise and make sure it’s going to the right places, and that’s why we formed our own organization.” He said that from a recent Black & Gold Hoops Challenge they raised enough money that paid for 40 less fortunate men to get prostate exams, who otherwise wouldn’t have had it done. Yet another new program the group is starting is “Amer-I-can” for Cancer, which is a recycling program for aluminum cans, connected to local schools and businesses that allows them to collect the cans, donate them to cancer research and awareness and the
participating schools will receive 20 percent of the money raised back for their own schools programs. They are excited to bring the Nor thshore their Community Health Outreach Program entitled the “Northshore Gladiator Games 2014” November 1, 2014 in Fritchie Park 901 Howze Beach, Slidell, LA. The games have been put together to promote a healthier community, the games consist of: 5K Bike Race, a 3K Family Bike Race, 3K Walk, Business vs. Business Tug-of-War, 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, Softball Tournament and Team Obstacle Course for teams, as well as a special obstacle course for law enforcement groups to compete against each other. We invite the community can come together for a day of fun, family, food and healthy competition. To sign up for the activities please visit www.northshoregames2014.com and it free for anyone that wants to come and cheer on their “Gladiator”. The deadline to sign up for the games is October 25, 2014. “We want the community to know that Get Check Or Check Out is in their community and is working to help find cures for the health problems we feel in our community,” says Cherine. “There is help out there if you can find the right treatment,” he said. “But for most people, it’s very difficult to know where to turn or what to do. Most people who are told they have cancer have never dealt with it before.” To assist in that area, one of the programs available through “Get Checked Out” is a patient navigator, who will assist an individual or family through the challenges of treatment or getting resources in their fight. “We understand that for the health care industry, cancer is a business,” Cherine said. “But we see these people up close. They are mothers, dads, kids—they are not a factory line at Ford—so we need to make sure that whatever we are doing as a non-profit is directly helping them. “We’ve been blessed with Darryn’s situation so we are trying to give back to others facing the same situation,” she added. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with “Get Checked Out” or to register for any of their programs please call 504-305-7563. Darryn & Cherine DeWalt with friends of Get Checked or Check Out – Vanessa Wilson, Tiffany Scott, Tonya Ramsey and Board Member Donna MacDonald
by: travisMANNY
Avocados, which are actually classified as a fruit, are rich in monounsaturated fat that is easily burned for energy. Personally, I eat a whole avocado virtually every day, which I usually put in my salad. This increases my healthy fat and calorie intake without seriously increasing my protein or carbohydrate intake. It is also very high in potassium and will help balance your vitally important potassium to sodium ratio.
A
s I've mentioned before, eliminating grain carbs is one of the best ways to support your health and maintain your weight, but when you cut down on carbs, you need to increase your intake of healthy fats. Avocados are an excellent source, along with organic raw butter, coconut oil, and organic pastured eggs, just to name a few. There's also evidence suggesting that limiting your intake of protein can be helpful for longterm good health and the prevention of cancer. At the very least, most people are consuming far too much poor-quality protein, such as beef and animal products from livestock raised in confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs). Here again, if you cut down on protein, you need to replace lost calories with healthy fats such as avocados, coconut oil, olives, olive oil, butter and nuts. Overall, most people would do well to get upwards of 50-70 percent fat in their diet (along with high amounts of vegetable carbs, moderate-to-low
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amounts of high-quality protein, and very little, if any, carbs). According to the California Avocado Commission, a medium Hass avocado contains about 22.5 grams of fat, two-thirds of which is monounsaturated. They're also very low in fructose, which is yet another boon, and provide close to 20 essential health-boosting nutrients, including fiber, potassium (more than twice the amount found in a banana), vitamin E, B-vitamins, and folic acid. Avocados are one of the safest fruits you can buy conventionally-grown,and most experts do not believe you need to purchase organic ones. Their thick skin protects the inner fruit from pesticides. Additionally, it has been rated as one of the safest commercial crops in terms of pesticide exposure, so there's no real need to spend extra money on organic avocados, unless you can afford it. Avocados have a long list of potential health benefits. For example, besides its anti-inflammatory properties, previous research from Japan suggests this powerful fruit may also help protect against
liver damage. In one study, laboratory rats were fed avocado and 22 other fruits. The rats were then given D-galactosamine, a potent liver toxin that interferes with cell synthesis and results in cell death. The rats fed avocado suffered the least amount of liver damage. The chemical-induced liver injuries resemble those caused by viruses, so the researchers suggested avocado could potentially offer support in the treatment of viral hepatitis. According to one lead author Hirokazu Kawagishi, Ph.D. One 2005 study, found that adding avocado to salad allowed the volunteers to absorb three to five times more carotenoids antioxidant molecules, which help protect your body against free radical damage. Other research has found that avocados: • Contain compounds that appear to inhibit and destroy oral cancer cells. • Can help improve lipid profiles in both healthy individuals and those with non optimized HDL/ total cholesterol levels). In one study, healthy “ Avocados are one of the individuals saw a 16 percent safest fruits you can buy decrease of serum total cholesterol conventionally-grown,and level following a one-week long experts do not diet high in monounsaturated fat most from avocados. In those with ele- believe you need to purvated cholesterol levels, the avocachase organic ones. “ do diet resulted in a 17 percent decrease of serum total cholesterol, and a 22 percent decrease of both LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, along with an 11 percent increase of the so-called "good" HDL cholesterol. Did you know there are many ways to skin an avoTo preserve the area with the cado? Well, there are, and greatest concentration of how you de-skin your fruit can antioxidants, you basically have a bearing on the nutrients you get from it. In 2010, the want to peel the avocado with California Avocado your hands, as you would a Commission issued guidelines banana: for getting the most out of your avocado by peeling it the 1. First, cut the avocado length- right way: "California-grown avocados wise, around the seed 2. Holding each half, twist them in contain 11 carotenoids. According to USDA's the opposite directions to separate Agricultural Research Service, them from the seed avocados contain a complex 3. Remove the seed package of phytonutrients, including carotenoids that may 4. Cut each half, lengthwise provide numerous health ben5. Next, using your thumb and efits. Carotenoids appear to index finger, simply peel the skin off protect humans against certain each piece cancers, heart disease and agerelated macular degeneration. The UCLA research showed that in California avocados, the greatest concentration of beneficial carotenoids is in the dark green fruit of the avocado closest to the peel. 'The Commission's public relations outreach to encourage consumers to 'nick and peel' their California avocados and to eat that dark green area of the fruit has resulted in 33 million consumer impressions,' said Jan DeLyser, vice president of marketing for CAC. 'This 'nick and peel' message is also valuable information for produce departments to share with their shoppers.'"
by: aaronPOTTS
What can you do with nothing but a set of dumbbells, you ask? Provide resistance to your body's movements also known as weight lifting. That's all weight lifting is resistance. The terms "weight lifting" and "resistance training" have become one in the same because they are describing the same activity - moving your body under more resistance than it normally has to handle. In fact, you've just stumbled upon the basic secret of exercise in general! Whether you are talk- ing about resistance training, Pilates, Yoga, cardio- vascular activities, or any other form of exercise, all of these programs have one thing in common - per- forming more activity than you would get sitting on the couch.
WHY should you exercise, though? How about defying the aging process for starters? Do you know that the primary reason why elderly people end up in nursing homes is because they lose the ability to think and move on their own? Do you also know that the entire process of thinking and moving on our own happens because we do it every day? Until we retire, that is. Once we don't have to go to work anymore, or deal with scheduling and lifestyle issues, suddenly the only thing that we have to think about is whether to watch game shows or soap operas all day long, and the only exercise we get is deftly flying our fingers over the remote control. Mush. That's what our brains and bodies turn into when we stop using them.Think you are still sharp as a tack, and at the height of your game? Try to say the alphabet backwards in 30 seconds or less.
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What about physically? Think that you can still hold your own even though you don't really exercise much? Stop reading this article and drop down on the floor for some correct-form pushups. Did you do at least 30 if you are female, or at least 40 if you are male? No? How about 20 or 25? 15? Unless you pulled off 30 or 40, you are probably at less than the 50 percentile mark for your gender - health conditions notwithstanding. Okay, so you've determined that you aren't exactly Olympic athlete material. So what? You don't even like sports, let alone being very good at them. That's fine, and there is nothing wrong with that. So what about fat? Do you like body- fat? Do you find it physically appealing? Do you think it's healthy? If so, we're done speaking. Go on about your business, and thanks for reading this far. For everyone else, here is a newsflash: In America today - the year 2010 - obesity related health conditions account for more deaths each year than all known forms of cancer COMBINED. Heart Disease alone is the number one killer of American adults, and it is a PREVENTABLE CONDITION!
How about self-esteem? 64% of Americans are overweight. That is almost twothirds of the population. If you think a figure like that and the skyrocketing sales of prescription antidepressants aren't related, you now have a second opportunity to stop reading this article and continue on with your day. Here is the bottom line, folks: Exercise and a reasonable nutrition program are necessary for all people, for their entire lives. Note, however, that I said "exercise,� and that I also said "reasonable nutrition program." At no point did I say anything about spend- ing two hours per day at the gym, or about eating nothing but carrots and celery for the rest of your life. Why?
Those practices are just as ineffective at long-term weight loss as diet pills and late night infomercial products. Here is what does work: 1) Weight/Resistance Training - Weight training for both men and women has the same effect - it makes your muscles more metabolically active. In simpler terms, it means your muscles will burn more calories even when you are sleeping. Muscle is the only site on your body where body fat is broken down. Weak muscles = weak metabolism. Weak metabolism = slow calorie burning. 2) Cardiovascular Training - Contrary to popular belief, this type of training is meant to help your cardio-respiratory system function more effectively, and ultimately to last longer. Does it burn a lot of calories? It does. However, if you don't combine it with resistance training and supportive nutrition, you'll likely just burn off water weight and the muscle tissue that you worked so hard for in step number 1. 3) Reasonable Nutrition Program - Choose a sources of complex and fibrous carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and lean sources of protein. Eat those nutrients in reasonable proportions frequently throughout your day, and your metabolism (refer again to #1) will crank up to high, and you'll be burning more calories on a day to day basis than you ever have before in your life. So far we have seen that not only can exercise keep us out of a nursing home, but it can also keep off excess levels of body fat which will - literally - keep us alive. We haven't even touched on sports performance, recreational activities, improved energy levels, ability to focus, and many of the other benefits of a regular exercise program. Personally, I'd be happy with just staying out of a nursing home, and staying alive long enough to look good in a bathing suit. What about you?
Top Reason to Spay or Neuter Your Pet Want to do something for your pet that is great for his health and is also an act of responsible pet ownership? Have your animal spayed or neutered. When you make the decision to spay or neuter a pet, you are also making a socially responsible choice — each year, millions of unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized.
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So when would a pet owner not want to spay or neuter a pet? According to Bonnie Beaver, DVM, a professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University, the only instance should be if the dog or cat is a breeding animal. Some hunters feel that if a male hunting dog is castrated, he will not work effectively, but this is just an old wives’ tale. “There really hasn’t been any strong scientific evidence that says that this is the case,” says Dr. Beaver. Here are some of the pet health benefits of choosing to Spay and Neuter your furry companion: 1. Relieves stress. “Physiologically, animals are geared toward pregnancy or nursing,” says Beaver. “If they are not doing that, they are physiologically stressed.” 2. Cuts down cancer risks. When you spay or neuter your pet, it reduces your pet’s risk of developing certain cancers and may lengthen their lives. In females, spaying cuts down the odds of developing mammary, ovarian, and uterine cancer. In males, the risk of developing testicular cancer is decreased after neutering. 3. Prevents urinary tract infections. Having a pet spayed or neutered also
lowers your pet’s risk of developing urinary tract problems. This can be particularly important for cats since urinary tract disease can be very serious or even fatal in felines. 4. Promotes better behavior. When you spay or neuter your pet, it reduces undesirable behavior. “It can decrease the roaming of males who may get hit by cars or get picked up as strays,” says Beaver. In dogs, it can lessen howling, barking, and urine marking. Male cats will be less likely to mark their territory with urine when they are neutered; spaying female cats will prevent yowling, which is what they do to attract males when they are in heat. 5. Eliminates female canine menstruation. Female dogs experience heat cycles approximately every six months or so, which can leave bloody stains around the house. “Female dogs that are not spayed have bloody discharge,” says Beaver. Your pet will be calmer and better behaved after surgery — reducing the breeding instinct can eliminate the desire to roam to find a mate. More importantly, your dog or cat will be healthier, more content, and a more devoted member of the family.