Highroads Living 11.3

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A Lifestyle Resource for Adults 55+ Vol 11 Issue 3

Stress Less with Adaptogens - page 2 Skin Cancer Prevention - page 7 Arthritis - page 13

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2 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 3

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STRESS LESS with adaptogens L

ife is full of stressors that are often impossible to avoid. From deadlines to that pile of bills to our endless to-do lists. It’s no wonder we feel stressed out much of the time. You might have trouble sleeping, find it difficult to focus, or suffer from recurring digestive issues. That’s because non-stop stress can take a toll on your emotional, mental and physical health.

When you are stressed, an alarm system is activated.

Adrenaline and cortisol production is increased to help you escape danger. Once the threat has passed, the alarm quiets, your hormones normalize, and you return to life as usual.

That cycle works well when you’re facing an immediate or finite threat, like a minor car accident.

But when your stress becomes constant your

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Volume 11 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 3

body never gets the “all clear” and stays stuck in a reactive mode. And that can have an unhealthy, whole-body impact.

Current research shows a clear link between chronic stress and dozens of health conditions including; Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, digestive problems, high blood pressure, insomnia, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain & obesity.

Life choices can increase the consequences of chronic stress. Ditch the bad habits and increase your stress-reducing activities to calm your body.

Try getting a massage or an acupuncture session, practice deep breathing, journal, laugh, pray, meditate, try a yoga class, spend some time in nature. Taking any of these active steps can help reduce your stress levels.

Combining them with natural stress-busting herbs can help you stay balanced and steady in the face of intense stress. For centuries, natural healers have relied on a special class of herbs called adaptogens. Adaptogens help to keep stress hormones in balance, allowing your body to better respond to stressful situations.

Health Store & Smoothie Bar • All-Natural Smoothies • Vitamins • Bulk Herbs • Supplements • Ionic Foot Bath • Essential Oils • CBD/Hemp Oil • Local Baked Goods • Kombucha • Honey • Skincare • Teas & Spices • Milk & Meat Open 7 Days a Week • FREE WiFi

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Adaptogens have helped people feel mentally and physically revitalized for centuries. Some of my favorites are Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Andrographis, and Ginseng. All adaptogens can help rebalance your body’s stress response, but they each work differently. Some excel at gently energizing your mind and body, while others work better for calming anxiety. Some come with additional benefits such as boosting the immune system, improving attention and focus, and increasing dopamine and serotonin production.

Practicing one or more of the relaxation techniques mentioned and adding adaptogenic herbs to your daily routine can help keep a lid on stress. Over time, these strategies can help you stress less and enjoy life more!

Tracy Pato, CNC, CNHP, CTN A to Zinc Health Store - Clarkesville, GA

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How to Find the Right Doctor

W

hether you’re rarely sick or have conditions that require frequent visits to the doctor, having a trusted and skilled health care provider is an important step in protecting your health.

or use the insurance company’s website to search for a doctor. It’s also a good idea to call the doctor’s office and ask for confirmation they take your plan. You should have your insurance, Medicare or Medicaid card handy in case the office needs your plan details.

Any number of reasons can result in needing to find a new doctor, such as moving to a new community, changes to your insurance, your old doctor retiring or needing a specialist.

NARROW YOUR OPTIONS Some of the providers you consider may not be viable options for simple reasons, like their practice isn’t currently taking new patients or they don’t have office hours matching your schedule.

You can also consider questions such as hospital affiliations and whether other providers can help if you need emergency care and your doctor isn’t available.

These suggestions from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can help you be more efficient and thorough as you look for a doctor who is right for you.

ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS Talk to people you know about whether they have a provider they like. If you’re looking for a new provider because of a move or retirement, ask your current doctor for a recommendation. If you need to make a change with your primary care doctor but see specialists or other medical professionals you like and trust, you can also request referrals from them.

CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY If you have health insurance, you may need to choose from a list of doctors in your plan’s network. Some insurance plans may let you choose a doctor outside your network if you pay more of the cost.

To find a doctor who takes your insurance, call your insurance company and ask for a list of doctors near you who are in-network

TAKE A DEEPER LOOK Online research can tell you a great deal about potential doctors, from biographical information and credentials to ratings by former patients.

W

hen searching for a new provider, another important area to consider is financial relationships. One resource patients can consider is Open Payments, a national disclosure program within CMS that provides visibility into financial relationships between drug and medical device companies and physicians, and teaching hospitals. The government requires pharmaceutical companies, device manufacturers and group purchasing organizations to report funds they give health care providers in the form of meals, entertainment, travel, gifts, consulting fees, research payments and

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Volume 11 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 5

TURNING 65?

NEW TO THE AREA?

Let Cathy, your experienced hometown professional answer your questions!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW! 706-781-7832

Serving Northeast Georgia & Western North Carolina for over 22 years!

MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTS MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS MEDICARE PART D PLANS LIFE INSURANCE

www.cathyjarrett.com cathy@cathyjarrett.com

Cathy Jarrett

Licensed Insurance Agent Licensed in GA, NC, TN, FL

more, promoting transparency and helping uncover potential conflicts of interest.

It’s important to know most health care providers receive payments. Just because financial ties are reported does not mean anyone has done anything wrong. However, patients can use the information to talk with their provider about why they recommend certain medications or treatments, including asking about generic options, which are equally as effective as name brands but typically less expensive. It’s also an opportunity to start a discussion with a provider about areas of professional interest and expertise based on research or consulting.

LISTEN TO YOUR GUT If you’re undecided, request an introductory appointment with a provider you’re considering. Look for a clinic where you are treated with respect and the medical team listens to your opinions and concerns. You should feel comfortable asking questions, and the doctor needs to be able to explain things in ways you understand.

Find more resources for your health care needs at cms.gov.

(Family Features) #15830 Photo courtesy of Getty Images Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Blairsville

Kim Farner Insurance 294 Highway 515 W Unit C Blairsville, GA 30512 706-781-7832

Hiawassee

Kim Farner Insurance 375 North Main Street Hiawassee, GA 30546 706-781-7832

Clayton

Kim Farner Insurance Blalock-Farner Branch 117 South Main Street Clayton, GA 30525 706-781-7832

6 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 3

Dine Outdoors w/Delicious Plant-Forward Dishes

As rays of sunshine light up backyards and patios, many families take their meals outdoors to enjoy the warm weather while sharing special moments together. More time spent eating meals on the deck or patio calls for recipes that fit your al fresco theme from plant-forward takes on traditional summer fare to platters and spreads that offer everyone something to smile about.

Mediterranean Platter Recipe courtesy of Aramark

1/2 lemon, thinly sliced 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon sugar 3 3/4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 cup diced tomato 1 cup diced English cucumber 1 tablespoon diced dill pickle 2 tablespoons sliced green onion 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed 3 cups hummus 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 1/4 cups pitted mixed olives 6 pita breads, warmed and quartered

Live Well Chatuge Family Practice A non-profit organization

828.389.6383 Teresa A. Heavner, M.D.

241 Church Street, Hayesville, NC 28904

Jill M. Brinke, M.D.

www.chatugefp.org Sally Cody, FNP-C

Justin Roby, M.D.

Services Offered CDL Exams Preventative Care Laboratory Work Minor Surgery

Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8 am - 6 pm Wed and Fri: 8 am - 4:30pm

Sports Physicals Acute & Chronic Disease Management Weight Loss Management

Acupuncture Dermatology/Skin Checks Medication & Medical Assistance Programs

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- In bowl, mix lemon, 1/4 teaspoon salt and sugar. Cover and chill 2-6 hours. Dice lemon. Mix diced lemon and 1/4 teaspoon olive oil. Cover and chill.

- Mix diced lemon, tomato, cucumber, pickle, green onion, parsley, vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover and chill.

- Lightly oil grill rack and heat grill to medium. Mix pepper, asparagus, remaining oil and remaining salt.

- Grill asparagus 2 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Let cool. Cover and chill.

- Set large serving platter on work surface. Place hummus and tomato salad in small bowls.

- To assemble, place larger items on platter then arrange smaller items around them. Group pita in several small stacks next to bowls. Arrange feta and olives in remaining space.

Falafel Burgers with Cucumber Sauce Recipe courtesy of Aramark

Cucumber Sauce: 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and coarsely grated 2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 small cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons dried dill 1 teaspoon kosher salt 2-3 tablespoons water Falafel Patties: 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry 1/4 cup sesame seeds 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced 1 red onion, halved and sliced 1 cup loosely packed cilantro 6 cloves garlic, peeled 1 jalapeno, sliced 3/4 cup chickpea flour 4 teaspoons ground coriander 4 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 6 tablespoons grapeseed or vegetable oil 4 buns lettuce (optional) tomato (optional) - To make cucumber sauce: Place grated cucumber in clean dish towel.

Roll dish towel around cucumber and squeeze to remove excess liquid.

- In bowl, mix cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, dill and salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons water, adding more as needed until mixture is smooth and creamy. Cover and chill.

- To make falafel patties: In food processor, cover and process chickpeas and sesame seeds until mixture is finely chopped. Transfer to bowl.

- In food processor, cover and process carrot, onion, cilantro, garlic and jalapeno until finely chopped. Add vegetable mixture to chickpea mixture. Add flour, coriander, cumin, salt and black pepper; mix well.

- Heat oven to 375 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape chickpea mixture into four patties. In skillet over medium heat, heat oil.

Cook patties 3 minutes, or until golden brown on bottoms. Turn over and cook 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Transfer patties to baking sheet.

- Bake 20 minutes. Let patties cool 15 minutes. Place patties on buns and top with lettuce and tomato, if desired. Drizzle with cucumber sauce.

(Family Features) #16220 Source: Aramark

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Skin Cancer PREVENTION

Summer 2022 is finally here and many of us have never anticipated a season more in our lives. Coronavirus numbers are finally down, and many have protected themselves with the COVID vaccine which makes it safer to get back to vacations, social gatherings, cook outs and the lake! Since we are venturing back into the glorious sun, we could all use a reminder about preventing sunburns from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. I commonly hear about “getting that first sunburn of the summer” but just 5 sunburns double your risk for skin cancer. Prolonged direct UV ray exposure is by far the most significant risk factor for developing skin cancer. And because we all experience some degree of sun throughout our lives, skin cancer is the most common cancer with an occurrence of 1 in 5 people. It’s important to know that all skin types can develop skin cancer, including melanoma, but are much more common in lighter skin.

The good news is that most skin cancers are treatable and can be removed before causing a serious problem. There are 3 main types of skin cancer: squamous cell, basal cell, and melanoma.

Of them, basal cells are the most common and easiest to cure.

Melanoma is the rarest but by far the most deadly. Of the roughly 12,000 people dying each year from skin cancer, melanoma accounts for almost 70%.

The best way to decrease your risk for skin cancer is to protect yourself from UV rays. We’ve all heard about using sunscreen but selecting the best type is important. The most common type of sunscreen is “chemical” based and currently being investigated for safety concerning some of the ingredients, including oxybenzone and octinoxate. The other form of sunscreen is “mineral” based with zinc and titanium and are considered safe but commonly cast a faint white appearance. I currently recommend using a high quality, chemically reduced or mineral sunscreen. Apply 10-15 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours if you stay directly in the sun. Perhaps more protective is simply spending shorter amounts of time in direct sunlight by taking shade breaks at least every 20 minutes and to minimize direct sunlight from the highest UV hours of 10am to 4pm. Another important protective measure is wearing clothing and large brimmed hats. Make sure to take extra care of the kids, since early sunburns in life increase risk for melanoma.

And it is never recommended to use a tanning bed.

In terms of detecting skin cancer, it’s important to be familiar with your most sun exposed areas such as hands, face, and ears.

Talk with your primary care physician if you notice an abnormal spot, especially if this appears to be changing size or color. Most primary care providers can diagnose and treat many early skin cancers. Finally, there is not a strong recommendation to have an annual skin check for most people, but light skinned people with history of melanoma should see a dermatologist every year.

Here’s to having fun and staying well this summer!

by Daniel Gordon, M.D.

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YOUR WEEKEND, YOUR TIME:

5 great tips for shaking the Sunday blues Do you sometimes find yourself feeling less than optimistic as your weekend draws to a close each Sunday?

If so, you’re far from alone. Stats recently published on Inc.com indicate 81% of workers have experienced the “Sunday scaries” in anticipation of the work week ahead. Still, it’s important to fend off those encroaching feelings and preserve the quality of your Sunday afternoon, since weekends are generally intended to help people relax, rejuvenate and enjoy time with family and friends.

Senior Living in the North Georgia Mountains

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An affordable community of apartments in a beautiful mountain setting.

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The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for! Enjoy your own home in the mountains without the burden of lawn care and maintenance. (for those 55+)

leaders in senior living

493 Wesley Mountain Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512 www.wesleywoods.org 706-745-5565

In that spirit, here are five suggestions to help energize your Sunday.

Be intentional about weekend plans. Plan ahead so you spend your weekend time doing what you really need or want to do whether that involves resting, having adventures, spending quality time with family or completing projects - instead of simply waiting for things to unfold. Fulfilling your plan can help you feel more in control, ward off procrastination, provide a sense of accomplishment and eliminate any sense of having “wasted” your weekend.

Incorporate activities you love. Spend part of your weekend doing something you enjoy. It’s all too easy to get caught up in activities you feel you have to do - social obligations, errands, chores, volunteer commitments, etc. - that you never have time for the things that give you pleasure.

Maintain a cheerful environment. Instead of winding down your weekend in a space that’s cluttered, dark and stuffy, make sure your physical living area is neat, clean, well-lit and boosts your energy.

A little scent therapy in the form of a candle, room spray or plug-in oil can be the mood boost; for example, the new Coastal Sunshine Citrus™ fragrance from Glade® is designed to energize your space by delivering a fresh breath of coastal air, a splash of citrus and a pop of pineapple.

Consider disconnecting from your phone and computer. Keep thoughts of work from encroaching on your weekend psyche by unplugging from your screens until Monday morning. Protect your mental and emotional space from the stress of the working world and focus on self-care instead, which can help you avoid career burnout and begin each work week renewed and refreshed.

Prioritize sleep and eating habits. Disregarding your normal patterns on the weekends - perhaps by skipping meals, overindulging in junk food, failing to stay hydrated or staying up until the wee hours - can easily backfire by Sunday night. Following healthy habits can enhance your general sense of well-being and set you up well for the start of your work week.

Sundays are a key part of every weekend, so don’t waste them thinking about Mondays. Strive for a healthy work-life balance by claiming each Sunday for yourself, your own pursuits and your own self-care.

(BPT)

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BLAIRSVILLE

Volume 11 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 9

MedicalDirectory

Brasstown Pharmacy Drug & Gun 23 B Murphy Hwy. 706-745-2303 Blairsville’s most reliable Pharmacy for all your prescriptions, including hormone replacement therapy, vaccinations, & compounding for your specific needs.

Firearms and ammunition plus parts or accessories. brasstown.biz

CLARKESVILLE

Family Care Habersham 5330 Hwy 115

706-839-1001

PRIMARY and URGENT CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! M-F 9-5. Medication and disease management, Illness/Injury, Well exams/ physicals, Well woman exams, DOT physicals, Sports physicals, Labs, urinalysis, EKG, plus Rapid, PCR and Antibody COVID testing. familycarega.com

DEMOREST

MedLink GA 706-754-4348 ext 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N. Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See pg 7

HAYESVILLE

Chatuge Family Practice 241 Church Street

828-389-6383

Established 42 year Community medical practice that offers many services. Variety of Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Assistant Payment programs available. chatugefp.org See pg 6

JASPER

Georgia Mountains Hospice 70 Caring Way 706-253-4100 800-692-7199

Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See pg 7

Life with Care & Compassion! Local non profit hospice serving 10 north GA counties since 1993 including Pickens, Gilmer, Union, Fannin, Dawson ,Forsyth, Murray ,Bartow, Gordon, & Cherokee County. Providing Home Care, Nursing Home, & Assisted Living support. www.georgiamountainshospice.org

CLEVELAND

MURPHY

Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid

We want you to keep your teeth happy & healthy for a lifetime. Services include braces to implants. Open 8am-5pm daily. mimsfamilydentistry.com See pg 12

CLAYTON MedLink GA 896 US-441

MedLink GA 17 White St.

706-754-4348 ext 2018

706-754-4348 ext 2018

medlinkga.org

DAHLONEGA

Family Care Dahlonega 400 Walmart Way Suite F

See pg 7

Mims Family Dentistry 96 Central St • Ste 201

828-837-3577

Murphy Dental Center 828-837-5911 119 Natural Springs Drive Modern Dentistry in a caring, home-like atmosphere including General Dentistry, CEREC Dentistry, and Oral Conscious and IV Sedation. murphydentalcenter.com

Peachtree Community Health Center 4048 E US 64 ALT, Suite 1 828-837-8131 Providing whole person care by integrating primary care and behavioral health at one location, during one visit. Our services encompass individualized treatment, health education, and community assistance from a team of providers that include physicians, nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), community health workers, and peer support specialists. M-F | 7:30 am - 5:30 pm amchc.org See pg 16

Pro Motion Rehab 2810 W US-64 Suite 1

828-837-0400

Physical, Occupational & Massage Therapies We are a family owned and therapist operated 4,000 sq. ft. clinic, offering a variety of Therapies and Services to help get you back to health. We specialize in Orthopedic Rehab for your back, hips, knee, shoulder and neck. We stay with the latest cutting edge techniques, taking on some of the hardest to heal cases with compete confidence. promotionrehab.com See pg 13

ROBBINSVILLE

Tallulah Community Health Center 409 Tallulah Rd. 828-479-6434 Providing whole person care by integrating primary care and behavioral health at one location, during one visit. Our services encompass individualized treatment, health education, and community assistance from a team of providers that include physicians, nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), community health workers, and peer support specialists. M-F| 7 am - 6 pm amchc.org See pg 16

706-867-7666

PRIMARY and URGENT CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! M-F 8-6, Sa/Su 9-2. Medication and disease management, Illness/Injury, Well exams/physicals, Well woman exams, DOT physicals, Sports physicals, Labs, urinalysis, EKG, plus Rapid, PCR, and Antibody COVID testing. familycarega.com

SeniorLiving BLAIRSVILLE

Wesley Mountain Village / Simpson Estates 493 Wesley Mountain Drive

706-745-5565

The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for! Enjoy your own home in the mountains without the burden of lawn care and maintenance (for those 55+) simpsonestates.org / wesleywoods.org See pg 8

HAYESVILLE

Clay County Care Center 86 Valley Hideaway Drive

828-389-9941

Skilled Nursing Facility providing rehabilitation, long term care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and dementia secured care. Clay County Care Center is a place to get better, a place for living. centers.consulatehealthcare.com See pg 14

10 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 3

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How movement can spark connections and help manage osteoarthritis pain

I

f you’re coping with pain, such as joint pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA), you may feel like you’ve been sitting out on life. Pain can make you reluctant to participate in activities that you enjoy and miss out on connecting with those you love. But experts will tell you that if you can move, even just a little more than you do now, you will reap benefits well beyond the physical.

“Movement is not just a powerful and effective tool for pain management,” says personal trainer Pete McCall, NASM-CPT, PES, and Voltaren spokesperson. “Movement also brings people together.

Getting out and moving with others can help reduce pain, but more importantly it will also help you stay motivated and feel connected.”

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But how can you start, especially if you’ve been sedentary for a while?

Volume 11 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 11

Yes, we are OPEN. Exercise is GOOD for you!

“Start slow,” says McCall, “and listen to your body. Mild aches after engaging your joints for the first time in a while may be expected, but if you experience persistent or sharp pain, connect with your healthcare provider. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.”

Here are tips for increasing your activity level to help with pain management and feel more connected with others.

CONSIDER WORKING WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER. Starting an exercise program with an experienced personal trainer can help you customize your workouts for your individual needs and comfortability level.

Sometimes just talking through your pain and concerns with a trained professional can be very helpful.

START WITH LOW-IMPACT EXERCISE. Walking, swimming and biking are all low-impact exercises that are easier on your joints - and that you can do with other people. Start with short sessions at a comfortable pace, gradually increasing the number of times you exercise per week, along with the length of time and intensity of your workouts. Don’t feel the need to push too fast too soon. The key is to build consistency over time.

JOIN A COMMUNITY CENTERED AROUND MOVEMENT - OR CREATE ONE. Whether it’s an exercise class, yoga center or walking club, getting together with others who are also focusing on their well-being can be encouraging and even fun.

If you don’t find the kind of group or class you want in your area, consider starting your own! Ask like-minded friends or family members to join you for regular walks, outdoor games or visits to your community pool to help keep you on track and turn exercising into a social event.

WARM UP FIRST, AND COOL DOWN AFTER EXERCISE. You should always begin your exercise session with gentle movement and stretching to help you ease into your physical activity and prevent injury. After working out, take time to cool down by reducing the intensity of your exercise, then ending with stretches.

SEEK PAIN RELIEF OPTIONS. If you have osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that affects the joints, you may experience pain, stiffness

Heart Rate Technology • Personal Training Group Fitness • Zumba • Yoga/Pilates • Spin Tanning • Childcare Now Accepting

3 Locations / 24 Hours Cleveland, GA 868 S. Main St. 706-219-7690

Dawsonville, GA Blairsville, GA 749 Hwy 53 1741 Blue Ridge Hwy. 706-265-7093 706-781-5320

TheGymGA.com or swelling in areas such as your hands, wrists, knees or ankles. One pain relief option is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) gel that is clinically proven to relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness and increase mobility. You apply the prescription-strength gel directly to the site of pain associated with arthritis to deliver pain relief in the hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle or knee. Apply Voltaren four times per day to help relieve arthritis pain all day long.

DON’T SIT OUT ON LIFE. If you see an opportunity to try a new sport, join a dance class, go on a nature hike or participate in a charity walking event - say “yes” to movement. Not only could it help relieve some of your pain, but it will make you feel that sense of connection to others that will boost your mood and encourage you to keep going on your wellness journey.

“You may be surprised by where movement can take you,” says McCall. “I’ve never had a client say they regret getting started - only that they wish they’d started sooner.” {BPT)

12 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 3

Everthing Dental Voted Best Dentist for 13 Years by Readers Choice of the Cherokee Scout American Dental Association • International Association for Orthodontics Fellowship Status with Aacademy of General Dentistry Fellowship Status American Orthodontic Society American Academy of Implant Dentistry International Congress of Oral Implantologists American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry

Welcome Doctors Jared Houston, DDS & Courtney Marshall, DMD to the Team!

828-837-3577 | 1-800-544-5840 96 Bill Hughes Avenue • Murphy www.MimsFamilyDentistry.com

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3 ways to make your oral care routine more sustainable More people are looking for ways to reduce the environmental impact of everyday habits and actions, and some companies are helping them do just that. Did you know sustainability actions can include your oral care habits and the oral care products you use daily, like your toothbrush and toothpaste tubes?

Crest and Oral-B have been working on developing sustainable solutions from improving their product designs to responsible manufacturing using 100% purchased renewable electricity.

In order to help less plastic material waste go to landfills and find innovative solutions, the Crest and Oral-B Recycle On Us program recycles your oral care waste that cannot be processed through traditional recycling. The best part: It’s free and easy! It’s just one small action you can take for positive impact.

Want to further reduce the environmental impact of some of your daily habits? Here are three concrete actions, including the Recycle On Us program, to help make a difference when it comes to your oral care routine: 1. TURN OFF YOUR TAP Did you know that turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth can save up to 8 gallons of water a day? In between wetting your toothbrush and rinsing your teeth after you’re finished brushing, make sure to turn off the water rather than letting it run down the drain. Even better, consume less energy by opting for cold water.

2. RECYCLE YOUR USED ORAL CARE PRODUCTS Did you know it’s possible to recycle things like old toothbrushes and dental floss containers? First, check the packaging to see if it can be recycled curbside. If not, Crest and Oral-B’s Recycle On Us recycling program helps consumers recycle many of their oral care products that cannot be processed through traditional recycling, including: * Toothbrushes * Toothpaste tubes * Dental floss containers

* Toothbrush heads * Mouthwash containers * Floss picks

It’s easy. Here are the 3 steps to participate in Recycle On Us: Step 1: R equest a free shipping label at OralB.com/Recycling.

Step 2: G ather and put your used oral care materials in any size box, seal and attach the shipping label.

Step 3: S hip the box from your local shipping center directly to their processing facility for recycling - so your discarded items can be turned into things like park benches, clothes and more.

3. UNPLUG YOUR ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH Most electrical appliances continue to use some electricity as long as they are plugged in, so remember to unplug the base charger when you’re not charging your electric toothbrush to help save energy.

(BPT) Photograph by Kai Casey

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ARTHRITIS People with arthritis often benefit from physical therapy.

Our physical therapists can teach you how to work out stiffness without further damaging your joints. Physical therapy is useful after an injury, such as from a fall, and after joint surgery, especially for artificial joint replacement. If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in your knee, hip, shoulder, or other joints, you probably want to know how to relieve your joint pain. To achieve these goals, our physical therapists may combine some strategies such as: MAINTAIN OR INCREASE JOINT RANGE OF MOTION Osteoarthritis can make a joint stiff. Physical therapy can improve your ability to bend and straighten a joint. Even incremental improvements in a joint’s range of motion can make a significant difference in joint function.

STRENGTHEN THE MUSCLE THAT SUPPORTS AN ARTHRITIC JOINT When osteoarthritis causes protective cartilage to wear away in a joint, there is painful friction between the joint’s bones. You can decrease this friction by strengthening the surrounding muscles that support the joint. Our skilled physical therapists can identify areas of impairments and teach you how to address these impairments.

IMPROVE BALANCE Individuals with osteoarthritis often have impaired balance resulting from muscle weakness, decreased joint function, decreased mobility, and other factors. Our skilled physical therapists may incorporate balance components into your treatment plan that include changes in terrain/ surface, walking distances, and elevation to simulate daily functional tasks in effort to improve balance and reduce your risk of falling.

Volume 11 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 13

Pro Motion Rehab Physical, Occupational, & Massage Therapies 2810 US Hwy 64 W Suite 1 Murphy, NC 28906 828-837-0400 Fax: 828-837-0404 pt@promotionrehab.com

ProMotionRehab.com

ADJUST POSTURE Good posture can take stress off arthritic joints. Our physical therapists can educate you about ways to adjust your posture and put less stress on joints as you sit, stand, and walk. This may include suggestions to modify your environment at home and work, and even in your car. Simple changes, such as adjusting the position of your car seat, can put less stress on your arthritic joint to make your daily routine easier.

While it is impossible to turn back the hands of time to eliminate the effects of arthritis, osteoarthritis/degeneration, physical therapy is proven to be able to help decrease symptoms of pain and stiffness associated with it. In addition, physical therapy helps to slow down the degenerative process by improving the strength and stability in muscles that surround a given joint, thereby decreasing the wear and tear to your joints from activities of daily living.

For more information: Pro Motion Rehab: 828-837-0400

14 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 3

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Quality Care

Serving Your Loved One for a Better Quality of Life

24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care 20-Bed, Quiet, Secured Unit for Dementia Care Therapeutic Recreation & Activities Respite Care for Care Givers Who Need A Break

Comprehensive Rehabilitation & Therapies Physical, Occupational, Speech, & Respiratory Therapy; Short Term “Rehab-to-Home” Programs; Post-Surgical, Orthopedic, Neurological, & Cardiac Rehabilitation IN2L Touchscreen Technology to Keep Families Connected & Offer The Interactive World To All Residents

CLAY COUNTY C A R E CE N TE R a Consulate Health Care Center

How to Choose Quality Vitamins and Supplements More than half of Americans take an over-the-counter vitamin or dietary supplement, but many may not realize that the quality of these products can vary greatly. Because supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration like other medicines, not all are quality products. When choosing a vitamin or other supplement, checking for independent verification can help ensure quality.

A recent study in the “Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine” found that the amount of actual melatonin in 71% of supplements is off by a 10% margin, meaning that labels of many melatonin substances do not accurately reflect how much melatonin is in the pill. The study also found the amount of melatonin within pills in a single jar can vary by 465%. This incident illustrates the value of verification, which confirms what is on the label is what is in the bottle.

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MEASURES OF QUALITY The following are some of the characteristics to consider when evaluating the quality of a dietary supplement: Positive Identification: There are products on the market that do not contain the ingredients indicated on the label.

Tests by an independent third party can confirm that what is on the label is in the bottle.

Potency: It is crucial that ingredients are present in the right amount. Too little may have no effect on your health, while too much may be harmful.

Purity: Unwanted ingredients can have a negative effect on health. Examples may include heavy metals, mold or mildew, and chemicals from pesticides.

Performance: A pill or tablet must properly dissolve, or else ingredients cannot be absorbed by the body. In that case, it is more likely to pass through your system without any effect on your health.

Another example is saw palmetto extract, a supplement commonly used to support prostate health and help to reduce frequent urination. Studies indicate that not all saw palmetto

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products are the same. Differences in purity, potency and quality among the various available saw palmetto products are thought to affect the usefulness of these supplements.

“As with any supplement, a consumer should look for the most reliable option,” said Ed Wyszumiala, head of the Dietary Supplement Verification Program at U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).

“Only consistent and quality saw palmetto extracts have been shown to be effective based on clinical research. Therefore, consumers seeking a quality dietary supplement can feel confident choosing products with third-party verification, such as Flomentum, the only saw palmetto extract supplement that has been independently verified by USP.”

HOW TO MAKE SUPPLEMENTS PART OF A HEALTHY DAILY ROUTINE

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2. Do your homework on the manufacturer to make sure it is a reputable company that adheres to good manufacturing practices and does not appear to be the subject of frequent consumer complaints.

3. Avoid companies making questionable claims about curing diseases and do your research on the science behind the products.

4. Carefully follow the directions on the labels, so you take the supplement exactly as intended.

Tests by an independent third party can confirm that what is on the label is in the bottle. Learn more about quality supplements and check whether your products are USP Verified at Quality-Supplements.org/Verified-Products.

Following a few simple guidelines can make it easy to include supplements as part of your daily routine.

1. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements, as they may interact with your prescription medications.

(Family Features) #16097 Photo courtesy of Getty Images Source: U.S. Pharmacopeia

Peachtree Community Health Center 16 Highroads Living - Volume 10 • Issue 2

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WHOLE PERSON WHOLE FAMILY

HEALTH CARE

EVERYONE IS WELCOME! PRIMARY CARE | BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Whole Person Healthcare Includes: • Preventive Care • Complete Physical Exams • Treatment for Acute Illnesses and Minor Injuries • Women’s Services • Minor Office Procedures • Chronic Disease Management • Mental Health and Behavioral Health Services • Care Management for Primary Care: • Resource connections • Care plans • Basic counseling services • Medication monitoring and management • Medical appointment coordination Peachtree Community Health Center participates in a Medicare Shared Savings Program, resulting in coordinated care and additional resources for our Medicare patients.

• Home visits • Pharmacy reviews • CaraMedic programs that integrate paramedics into the multidisciplinary care team - bringing compassionate care truly closer to home.

Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance accepted.

Self-pay and sliding scale options available.

PEACHTREE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 4048 E US 64 Alternate, Suite 1 Murphy, NC 28906 Phone: 828-837-8131 Fax: 877-930-7732 Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Murphy, Cherokee County) An affiliate of

amchc.org TALLULAH COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 409 Tallulah Rd. Robbinsville, NC 28771 Phone: 828-479-6434 Fax: 828-479-2917 Monday-Friday | 7 am - 6 pm (Robbinsville, Graham County)