OK Health & Fitness

OKhealth&fitness February / March 2011

Free

Exercise the mind and body with Dinosaurs and some

of Oklahoma's finest art treasures pg.38

Heart Disease

Colorectal Cancer

by Brandy Morris

Foodies

Babies on Board

Warning Signs for Heart Attack

Advances in Colorectal Cancer Care

Celebrate Heart Month with Watermelon

Treating your sick child

pg. 10

pg. 35

pg. 22

pg. 31

mar•a•thon

[as adj.] – requiring exceptional endurance

It takes grit and determination to go the distance for our customers and communities. Payne County Bank is proud to be one of Oklahoma’s strongest community banks.

With a tireless spirit, we’ve been the people you can count on for

Lynn Kinder, President & CEO, Payne County Bank Marathon runner Mt. Evans Ascent Half Marathon, Colorado 2007

112 years. We’re here to go the extra mile with you.

202 S. Main, Perkins, OK (405) 547-2436

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OUR NEWBORN CARE IS BETTER ON SO MANY LEVELS. No place is more

prepared for high-risk pregnancies than The Children’s Hospital, where the most experienced specialists and advanced critical care are all under one roof. Just an elevator ride away. Take advantage of another level of medicine.

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One of these women will die from heart disease.

One in three American women will die from cardiovascular disease. More women die of cardiovascular disease than the next five causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer, according to the American Heart Association.

Don’t let heart disease claim you or someone you love. Norman Regional’s HealthPlex Heart Hospital brings together all the pieces for your complete heart health. From detecting and treating heart problems to preventing heart disease, we have the total package.

The HealthPlex Heart Hospital has a team of board-certified cardiologists, dedicated nursing staff, a Chest Pain Center and even a specialized cardiac rehab program for after surgery. From the paramedic who responds to a heart attack to a registered nurse who helps patients get back on their feet, Norman Regional is here for you every step of the way.

405.440.8802

NormanRegional.com/Heart

contents

February / March 2011 / Volume 1, Number 3

Features 34 Matters of the Heart

Norman Regional Hospital has the tools and

knowledge needed to fight heart disease 35 Advances in Colorectal Cancer Care

“This was so much better. The recovery was

faster and much less difficult.”

36 Julie's Journey

One woman's story of colon cancer

Cover Photo "The End of the Trail" by James Earle Fraser, National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City / photo by bradley smith

prime 9 10 12 12 14 15 16 17

Healthy Living — the Olympic Way Oklahoma Red Cross Varicose Vein Treatment Won't Slow You Down A Crowning Achievement Use Your Head... Follow Your Heart Making the Connection Save Your Vision Low ‘T’: The “Other” Menopause

fitness 18 Ben Coffman Fitness Guru 19 Keeping Up with Knee Health 20 Decoding Your Headache

foodies 22 23 24 26

Tasty Ways to Your Heart Discover Endive Chava Vital Chocolate Hot Plate: Comfort Food with a Twist

talk 44 Fiscal Fitness: Your Financial Roadmap 44 Wellness Guru: Natural Facts In every issue

Oklahoma Heritage

on displ ay Take a walk with the dinosaurs,

American Cowboys and Western

Art in Oklahoma.

By Brandy Morris

Publisher's Letter.............................................................. 6 Editor's Letter.................................................................... 6 Making a Difference........................................................45 Ben Coffman Fitness Guru..............................................18 Babies on Board..............................................................29 Events................................................................................46

PG. 38

February / March 2011

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OKhealth&fitness publisher’s letter

February / March 2011 Vol 1 - Issue 3

New Sections

Hello Everyone, This is the time of the year when most Oklahomans are hit with the seasonal flu and various viruses. Take precautions and do what you can to prevent the spread of those pesky germs. Our Babies on Board Section features a couple of stories that deal with illnesses for preemies as well as the older kiddos. Hopefully some of our moms out there will find the information helpful.

This issue focuses on the Heart and its health along Contact with several other health isBrandy at sues. I hope that the informabrandyokhealth tion you find will be beneficial @gmail.com to you and your loved ones.

Central Rural Electric Cooperative is in the spotlight in our “Making a Difference” feature. The story shines a light on the company’s wellness program that is available for its employees.

We are introducing a new feature called “Fiscal Fitness.” This feature is brought to you by Payne County Bank and will offer you

Publisher/ Editorial Director Brandy Morris (405) 614-5373 brandyokhealth@gmail.com Associate Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief Bradley Smith (405) 614-2615 bradokhealth@gmail.com

some tips on how to keep your finances in top shape for the future.

Our Wellness Guru, Dr. Steve Johnston will offer you words of wisdom on your journey to better health.

I hope you find something in this issue to peek your interest and tempt your taste buds.

Think and Be Healthy, Oklahoma!

[ Brandy Morris, Publisher ]

Editor’s letter

Go Out!

6

February / March 2011

Contributing Photographers Brandy Morris Bradley Smith Michael Mitra Sterling Pamplin Georgia Read Dwight Normile Vincent Smith Innovative Communications, Inc State of Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department Creative Website Designer Chris Heide

hello ok health & fitness readers,

I trust that your Christmas and New Years Holidays were joyful and that you remembered to Think and be Healthy! It is that time of year when we all have to be aware of the dangers of the season and tread lightly when walking out our front doors. Mother nature is never kind to young and old when there is ice or snow on the ground. Even the avid jogContact ger and outdoors exerciser can Bradley at fall and hurt themselves, so rebradokhealth member to watch where you @gmail.com step. Try and help those senior citizens that do not have anyone to clean off their sidewalks. Sometimes just stopping by to see how they are is the best medicine for them and you. Take them to the grocery store and help them get the groceries back into the house. Let them know that you are thinking of them and that you do care. Make sure that they are getting the proper exercise that they need by getting them to go with you to a Museum or an Art gallery. It not only helps with the regular work out in walking but it also stimulates the educational muscle as well.

Creative Director Michael Mitra

Staff Writers Lisa Lewis (405) 334-3408 lisaokhealth@gmail.com Karen Smith-Pearson smithpearson@sbcglobal.net

Contributing Writers Dan Johnson Sherry Andrusiak Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC Lee R. Centracco, D.D.S. Mark Triplett, MSOM Ameyka Pittman Dr. Ralph A. Latimer, OD, FCOVD Dr. Harvey Jenkins, MD Ben Coffman Ken Schaecher, DPT, OCS Dr. Dawn Hacker Melissa Herron, April Sandefer Dr. Steve Johnston Jennifer Tatum

Area Sales Manager Karen Smith-Pearson (405) 631-2586 smithpearson@sbcglobal.net Printing Advanced Printing and Marketing 500 East 2nd Street Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 (405) 348-6090 www.apmok.com

We here at OK Health & Fitness wants everyone to know that we are now in the Tulsa market so we say Hello to each and everyone of you and welcome Eastern Oklahoma. The magazine is growing so fast in such a short time and we are excited about all who are on board with our mission and goal to bring informative and incisive articles each issue.

2011 is full of possibilities and excitement and I know that you will continue to make us apart of your lives because you are definitely in ours! God Bless!

[ Bradley Smith, Editor-in-Chief ]

OK Health and Fitness is a bi-monthly magazine published 6 times a year.

Subscription rates are $22.00 for one year. For subscription inquiries please send an email to: bradokhealth@gmail.com or mail check payable to OK Health and Fitness, 7790 North 39th Road, Tryon, Oklahoma 74875-7701.

Copyright © 2010 Oklahoma Health and Fitness Magazine LLC and OK Health and Fitness Magazine. All rights are reserved.

Reproduction of Articles or Advertisements without the expressed written permission of the Publisher is prohibited.

For advertising information, please contact Bradley Smith at 405.614.2615 or e-mail at bradokhealth@gmail.com.

OK Health and Fitness magazine assumes no responsibility for the contents of articles or advertisements in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher or any magazine employee or contributor. All Editorial submissions should be sent to brandyokhealth@gmail.com.

This publication and all its contents are Copyrighted.

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Valentine's Day 10 / Varicose Veins 12 / The Other Menopause 17

Healthy Living – the Olympic Way

1

Inspiration abounds at The Bart & Nadia Sports & Health Festival February 12

H

[ By Sherry Andrusiak ]

CONNER Photo by Dwight Normile / COMANECI Photo by Dwight Normile / HILL AND SMOKE PHOTOS BY Photo by Georgia Read

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3

4

(1) Olympic Gymnast Bart Conner warms up the crowd at the Nadia Comaneci International Invitational.

(2) Olympian Nadia Comaneci, the first gymnast to score a perfect 10, inspires audiences around the world.

(3) 2004 Olympian Jeff Smoke won the 2010 RIVERSPORT Indoor Kayak Challenge.

(4) 2010 Pan Am Championships Bronze medalist Katy Hill will compete at the RIVERSPORT Indoor Kayak Challenge.

ealthy living sounds like a good idea, but many struggle with motivation. The Bart and Nadia Sports and Health Festival, in association with The Oklahoman, is a spark to light the motivation fuse.

Gymnastics super-stars Bart Conner and Nadia Comaneci, two of the most inspirational Olympic athletes to call Oklahoma home, developed the event to be the premier health, fitness, and sports education event in Oklahoma.

“This event has really come together based on the momentum of Olympic sports in OKC, as well as statistics pointing to the need for health education,” said Conner.

The festival, held Saturday, February 12 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at OKC’s Cox Convention Center, offers a host of free exhibits, free health screenings, and free events, with some requiring admission or registration fees. From youth gymnast’s inspiring talents and adult rower’s courage to try something new, to elite athlete’s desire to chase their Olympic and Paralympic dreams, inspiration abounds.

Featuring competitors from nine countries, the Nadia Comaneci International Invitational headlines the festival, running February 11 through February 13. The international elite competition at 7 p.m. February 12 will leave spectators marveling at the power of the human body. Tickets are available for all sessions.

“We’re also giving youth a chance to try out the floor at the Bart Conner Gymnastics Academy clinic at the free festival area Saturday,” said Conner. “Kids complete a variety of exciting gymnastics skills and maneuvers, nurturing their excitement.”

Oklahoma City RIVERSPORT will also offer Olympic-caliber inspiration.

“OKC RIVERSPORT will feature the nation’s Olympic sprint kayak hopefuls racing in an indoor championship,” said Mike Knopp, OKC Boathouse Foundation executive director. “Spectators will have a chance to experience the fullbody sports of indoor kayaking and rowing too.”

OKC National High Performance rowers training on the Oklahoma River – a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training site – will also race in an indoor rowing exhibition, the first of many events in their quest for the London Olympics.

Corporate Rowing League teams will compete in the RIVERSPORT Indoor Rowing Championship. And local youth will participate in the

The Bart & Nadia Sports & Health Festival Cox Convention Center, OKC 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. February 12 Admission: FREE RUNderground Family Fun Run - $25 per person

Nadia Comaneci Invitational International Competition (7 p.m.): Adults $10, Children $5, 2 & Under free www.BartAndNadiaFestival.com

JUMP UP Challenge, a fun, interactive area.

The festival kicks off 9 a.m. Saturday with the RIVERSPORT RUNderground 5k family fun-run in OKC’s Underground. After a $2-million face-lift by Rand Elliott, Elliott & Associates, the Underground’s illuminated corridors and art exhibits create an inviting environment, making it ideal for an indoor family 5k.

University of Central Oklahoma, a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training site, will hold the International Paralympic Committee Powerlifting Championship Nationals, the National Archery Association Indoor Oklahoma State Championship and the Junior Olympic Archery Development shoot.

Spectators can watch as power lifters hoping to qualify for the Parapan American Games, a qualifier event for the 2012 Paralympics in London, strive to break American records, while archers vie for the title of state champion.

“Festival attendees can try the sport of archery or rotate into a fast-paced game of sitting volleyball with the 2008 Paralympic silver medalists from the USA’s Women’s Sitting Volleyball team and the USA Men’s Sitting Volleyball team,” said Leigha Joiner, UCO sports programs coordinator.

The OKC Thunder will offer youth basketball challenges, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma will provide free health screenings, and several vendors will feature information and interactive exhibits.

“Working together as one big event has a larger impact, especially on youth. Once children decide to become athletes, it affects the choices they make, from the food they eat to the people they befriend. I’m very grateful to the corporate community for embracing this event and seeing its potential to have a positive impact,” Conner said.

February / March 2011

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prime

[ by Lisa Lewis ]

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arch is American Red Cross month, and the nonprofit organization is looking for a whole lot of heroes.

“We are set to kick off our annual fundraising campaign that asks companies and individuals to be a ‘Hero’ for the Red Cross by giving $1,000,” said Mary Jane Coffman, community disaster education coordinator for the American Red Cross of Central Oklahoma, which serves 12 counties including the Oklahoma City and Edmond areas. “We also have a Day at the Capitol, where we reach out to ensure that our legislators know about the services that are provided to residents in every county in Oklahoma and also give them the opportunity to give blood.

“Naturally, we will be continuing to provide our services to those who need them as we do every day of the year.”

As part of the world’s largest humanitarian and emergency response network, the Red Cross provides emergency and crisis aid, nearly half the country’s blood, military family support and lifesaving safety programs. It plays a crucial role in disaster aid, responding to crises

Saint Valentine’s Day [ by Karen Smith-Pearson ]

B

elieve it or not, a prisoner was responsible for the tradition of sending Valentine messages on this day! The 3rd century A.D., Roman Emperor Claudius II forbid young men to marry. The Emperor thought that married soldiers would make poor decisions and would be distracted because they would want to be home with their families.

Father Valentine, a priest in Rome at the time did not agree with this edict and secretly performed marriages for young couples.

He was caught disobeying the order and was brought before Claudius II, who offered him immunity if he would give up his faith and join the Roman society. Instead, Father Valentine tried to convert the Emperor to Christianity, and wound up in prison.

During his incarceration, Father Valentine converted 46 prisoners and jailers. One jailer’s blind daughter frequently visited Valentine and the two became fond of each other. Through prayer and intercession, a miracle occurred. The girl was healed of her blindness. Soon after, Valentine was sentenced to die with a three-fold execution: beating, stoning and beheading. On the

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February / March 2011

ranging from countrycrippling earthquakes and floods to familydisplacing house fires.

“We do what we do through the efforts of volunteers and the donations of generous givers,” Coffman said. “Last year, we had 1,050 volunteers who served tens of thousands of hours for the (Central Oklahoma) Red Cross – assisting in disasters, teaching classes, sewing pillows for veterans and holiday stockings for children, presenting life-saving information to the public.”

Angela Burgess, health and safety director of the Stillwater-based North Central Oklahoma chapter of the Red Cross, stressed that people can make donations to the organization in many forms.

“There’s a lot of things they can do, it’s not just blood or just money, people can donate time, too,” she said.

Burgess said last year’s North Central Oklahoma “Heroes” drive fell short of the $10,000 goal for the region’s program, but she with the money that was raised the chapter was able to provide aid to more than 10 fire victims.

“Unfortunately, we have fires every week, so we’ve got people we’re taking care of, especially during the wintertime,” she said, attrib-

day of his death, Feb. 14, 269 A.D., he sent a farewell note to the jailer’s daughter and signed it, “From Your Valentine.”

For his loyal devotion to the faith, painful death and healing of the girl, Father Valentine was canonized as a Saint. In 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius set aside February 14th to honor Saint Valentine’s martyrdom. He is considered the patron saint of greetings, love, young people, engaged couples, happy marriage, love letters, bee keepers, epilepsy, fainting, plague and travelers. He is represented in pictures with birds and roses.

Through the centuries different countries created their own Valentine traditions. In England children dressed up as adults and went from house to house singing a good morning Valentine song. In Wales wooden “love” spoons were carved and decorated with hearts and keys and given as gifts on this day.

The message meant, “You unlock my heart”. In the Middle Ages young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their Valentine would be. They would wear the name on their sleeves for one week. Of course now to “wear your heart on your sleeve” means that you are openly revealing how you feel.

We conventionally celebrate with cards, flowers, candy and candlelight dinners. If you decide to break with tradition and do something different here are a few ideas that

uting the increase to people’s use of space heaters to heat their homes when it’s cold and the fire dangers associated with the heaters. “We’re immediate help, so what we do is actually go to the fire and get those victims a place to stay.”

The Red Cross also provides vouchers for food and clothing and comfort kits with immediate first needs, such as toothpaste or shampoo, to emergency and disaster victims.

Coffman said that although March is the national Red Cross month, aid is a year-round need because disasters are unpredictable and may occur at any time.

“We are always in the process of training volunteers to respond to emergencies and disasters, so volunteers are always needed,” she said. “We are able to provide our services due to the generosity of the American public. Assistance is needed by those affected by disasters when the disaster occurs, so we have to be prepared to respond in advance.”

For more information on donating, volunteering, taking a class, locating the nearest chapter or participating in the 2011 Heroes for the Red Cross campaign, visit www.redcross.org.

might warm the heart.

A simple romantic stroll through the Botanical Gardens or Museum of Art is a great opportunity for hand-holding and a meaningful conversation. A movie or a concert would be a nice outing, or perhaps re-creating your first date would be fun. Plan a romantic weekend getaway to a local Bed and Breakfast or an upscale hotel. If your getaway of choice is booked for the holiday, a card with tickets or a reservation inside can be just as romantic, because it extends the moment to a future date. Anticipation is very romantic!

Are you without a partner for this occasion? Valentine’s Day is for “just friends” too! If you are alone, use it as a self-appreciation day. Treat yourself to a few of your favorite things and ask for a special blessing from Saint Valentine!

photo provided by stock.xchng

Oklahoma Red Cross

February / March 2011

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prime

Varicose Vein Treatment Won’t Slow You Down W

livering this light energy to the targeted tissue with extreme precision, so that it doesn’t affect the surrounding tissue. Lasers have proven their safety and effectiveness through years of use in all types of medical procedures, from laser eye surgery to dermatology.

In the hands of a skilled physician, lasers offer far less risk for complications than conventional surgery. You’re back on your feet more quickly and recovery is a cinch.

How Does Insurance Cover Varicose Veins?

Most carriers (including Medicare) provide coverage for varicose vein laser procedures to resolve the underlying medical problem

of venous reflux disease. The symptoms of this disease include leg pain, swelling, leg cramps and visible blue veins. Your doctor can document these problems during an ultrasound scan of your veins. Some insurance carriers require a period (usually 3-4 months) of conservative therapy such as using compression hose and elevating the leg, before providing coverage for the varicose vein treatment.

When you choose a doctor who specializes in varicose vein laser procedures, he will know the protocols that each individual insurance carrier requires and can give you a timeline that will help keep you on track to healthier legs. He can also give you tips on how to work your procedure into your busy lifestyle to minimize the impact on your dayto-day activities. For instance, if your insurance carrier wants you to try compression hose first to alleviate the pain, we might recommend that you try them in early winter or early spring so that you don’t have to wear them during the hottest part of the summer.

By trying the conservative care during the cooler months means you’ll be ready to have your varicose vein laser procedure before you even think about putting on a pair of shorts for summer.

Dr. Pedulla offers free exams to patients who are interested in talking to a doctor about their veins. To reach him, call (405) 947-2228 or view his website at www.NoVeinOK.com.

A Crowning Achievement: Enhanced Comfort for Patients

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any of us have experienced the gooey mess, unpleasant taste, drooling, and gagging associated with creating traditional impressions of the teeth needed for crowns

By Lee R. Centracco, and bridges. Not only is this D.D.S. method of taking impressions uncomfortable for patients, it is technique sensitive.

However, an accurate impression of existing teeth is a fundamental of cosmetic and restorative dentistry because it provides dentists with a benchmark for the work that is to be accomplished in the dental lab. That’s why the iTeroTM Digital System now being used in our office is so revolutionary. The iTeroTM cre12

February / March 2011

ates a precise “virtual” impression of a patient’s teeth using 3-D digital technology that is then used to make the patient’s crown or bridge.

The iTeroTM was designed to allow us to offer patients a technology-driven procedure that is more advanced than conventional methods. A hand-held wand, approximately the size and shape of an electronic toothbrush, captures more than 100,000 data points in the patient’s mouth by scanning the area to be restored.

With superior accuracy, iTeroTM “talks” to the dentist providing him with dimensions measured by the wand. The dentist and the patient can instantly view the scan in real-time on a monitor, and adjustments, if needed, can be made while the patient is still in the chair.

Within seconds of scanning the area, dig-

ital images can be sent via internet connection to one of the iTeroTM laboratories in the country to begin the fabrication process.

Long gone are the days of mailing models of each patient’s mouth from the dental office to the laboratory, which ultimately increased

legs photo provided by stock.xchng / centracco photo provided

ith the New Year upon us, most of us are running at full capacity. There are a plethora of things charging through our minds that we want to improve or change. And for

By Dominic M. Pedulla many of us, those changes MD, FACC include making resolutions about our health. If your New Year’s Resolution includes finally eliminating your varicose veins, then I have good news for you!

For many people, the thought of a vein procedure can be scary, especially when you are busy. However, the latest laser vein treatments remove the stress associated with surgery. And best of all, it’s a clinically proven alternative to traditional and painful ligation and stripping surgery. So what does this mean for you?

• Return to work on the same or the very next day • No general anesthesia • No scarring • Immediate relief • The treatment generally takes less than one hour in a doctor’s office • Your insurance most likely covers this procedure The reason that the newest laser vein treatment is so different is that it uses laser energy, which is simply a highly concentrated beam of light. Medical lasers work by de-

Benefits of the iTeroTM Digital Impression System

photo provided by stock.xchng

Superior Accuracy: With digital precision, magnification, and examination by the dentist at the time of scanning to determine if adjustments need to be made, an accurate preparation and a well-fitting bridge or crown can be achieved.

Real-time display: Digital images of the patient’s teeth and mouth can be instantly viewed and corrections or confirmations of the fit can be achieved while the patient is sitting in the dental chair.

Patient comfort: The iTeroTM decreases the number of impressions needed thus impacting how many times the patient has to endure the putty-like material used for impression models in the past.

Effective communication: Once the iTeroTM has scanned the patient’s teeth and bite, the data files can be sent electronically to the lab as a 3-D image to ensure that the crown or bridge fits properly with minimal adjustments.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 405-946-5198 or visit www.centraccosmiles.com

the time to create the new crown or bridge. The patient’s impressions for the lab are now produced digitally with no mess or bad taste creating a more comfortable impression process and restorations that look and feel like natural teeth.

Often, using past impression methods, adjustments to the final fit of the crown were made at the time it was placed in the patient’s mouth by shaping the crown to better fit the position or patient’s bite.

With iTero’sTM cutting edge technology and the precise image created by a “virtual” impression, every crown that is seated on the tooth is made to fit like a glove.

Compared to the conventional process for a bridge or crown placement, patients experience increased comfort, superior accuracy and real-time imaging. This technology, combined with our computerized color matching system, results in shorter more pleasant appointments. Patients leave our office with something to smile about.

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PRESERVING HISTORY | MAKING MEMORIES

Allen True’s West

Valentine’s Day Dinner & Dance

Riders In The Sky Concert

February 4 – May 15 Featuring the work of renowned Colorado artist Allen Tupper True, this exhibition includes magazine illustrations, studio paintings and larger-than-life murals depicting life in the early 20th century American West

February 14 Enjoy a buffet dinner and dancing hosted by the Museum’s Dining on Persimmon Hill restaurant in the lovely Sam Noble Special Events Center. Museum galleries open

February 26 The Museum welcomes Riders In The Sky, stellar vocalists and instrumental virtuosos who have recorded more than 30 Western albums. Enjoy an evening with “America’s Favorite Cowboys”

Reservations required (405) 478-2250, Ext. 281

www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Open Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • 1700 NE 63rd St • Oklahoma City, OK • (405) 478-2250

prime

Use Your Head…Follow Your Heart [ By Mark Triplett, MSOM ]

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olistic medicine claims to treat the whole person, body mind & spirit.

Many of its diagnostic paradigms include emotional symptoms of dis-ease along with physical ailments. Since February is devoted to Heart Health, I’d like to talk about the oriental medicine perspective of our heart.

Ever have anyone tell you to “Listen to your heart” or “follow your heart”? Everyone has probably been faced with a choice at some point in their life. Sort of a duality of logic and desire. On the one hand we need to think with our heads, to reason logically all the possible outcomes of our pending decisions. On the other hand, there’s that little voice…”in our heart” …that whispers to us of our desires. “Do I fund my retirement? Or buy a Harley!” Sometimes we heed the logic of our internal dilemma and opt to make the logical decision, but occasionally we just need to follow our hearts!” Chinese Medicine views the heart as the seat of our emotions, particularly

those of joy and desire. Medical science tells us that laughter is good for our heart. Laughter helps to “lift” our mood; it stimulates the production and release of hormones that make us feel good. These hormones can help alleviate pain, relieve stress and reduce blood pressure. Is it any coincidence that the ancient Chinese stated that the emotion of the heart is joy?

When is the last time you heard or said, “It feels like my heart is bleeding or broken” We’ve all felt it. From the breakup of our first crush to the loss of loved ones, yes two legged and four, there is that anguish! We can’t describe it, but it’s there… in our heart.

Time heals old wounds they say and most of the time it’s true. But what about the times when our heart doesn’t heal. Is it surprising that many Chinese medicine prescriptions for acupuncture or herbs are very similar, whether they are treating actual heart abnormalities, or a broken heart?

The heart is also seen as the place where

mental activity originates. When a person’s heart is strong, one has the ability to think clearly, is capable of the full range of emotions, can focus when thinking, and is able to sleep well.

If the heart is weak one may suffer from mental problems like depression, dull thinking, insomnia and anxiety. Acupuncture has been shown to help correct minor heart rhythm issues like palpitations, insomnia, particularly waking many times at night, sometimes with bad dreams, anxiety or mild depression.

If you think you may have a physical heart condition, see a medical doctor and get a diagnosis! Then, discuss your condition with a holistic practitioner.

Laugh a little every day! Love something!

And consider acupuncture as part of your heart health!

Mark has a Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine and has practiced acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for over seven years.

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Lavender Cookies, Tea/Coffee +Door Prize (Lavender Basket)

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RR 2 Box 144A Apache, OK 73006 Tel: (580) 588-2855 Fax: (580) 588-2837 lavendervalleyacres.com lavendervalleyacres@earthlink.net Out in the deep country, 79 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, 19 miles south of Anadarko, 7 miles south of Ft. Cobb, and about 29 miles north of Lawton/Fort Sill.

Intersection CS 2550 & CR 1410 • GPS: N 34 degree 58.227’; W 098 degree 27.490’

• Be a healthy and active role model For more information and ways to get involved: Visit our website,www.fitkidsok.org

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Find us on : Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition Follow us on : @OKFitKids

Making the Connection: Improving Health for Academic Achievement [ By Ameyka Pittman ]

photo provided

I

t’s Monday morning and little Billy is awakened to get ready for school. He hopes to get to school in time to eat breakfast, but arrives just in time for class. Sadly, this happens most mornings. Billy is a bright young boy, but his teacher knows his grades and performance do not reflect his true abilities. He tries to focus – but his hunger keeps him distracted.

This illustration is a small example of how a student’s ability to concentrate in class is impacted by hunger. In a national report distributed by Action for Healthy Kids, “The Learning Connection: The Value of Improving Nutrition and Physical Activity in Our Schools”, it is documented how the excessive rise in poor nutrition, inactivity, and weight problems adversely affects achievement.

Among the findings in the report were: • Well-nourished students who skip breakfast perform worse on tests and have poor concentration.

• Children not getting adequate nutrients have lower test scores; even transient hunger

from missing a meal affects performance.

• Students participating in daily physical education exhibit better attendance and achievement.

The 2003 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) found that students who engage in unhealthy weight control behaviors and physical inactivity receive lower grades than their classmates who are physically active and engage in healthy weight control behaviors. When students are hungry or sick – when their basic needs aren’t met – they experience barriers to succeeding in the classroom. The influence of health on academic success should not be underestimated.

The Healthy, Hunger-free Kids Act, signed into law by President Obama in December, sets nutritional standards for all food offered in schools -- including food served in cafeterias, vending machines and stores -- increases spending per meal and enrolls about 115,000 more children in school lunch programs. It will improve nutrition and focus on reduc-

The Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition is a

statewide Initiative coordinated by the ing childhood obesity by setting national nuOklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy. tritional standards and subsidizing school lunch meals, increase access to school meal programs for more than 115,000 children, and call for program monitoring to ensure schools adhere to nutritional standards. This bill is instrumental to ensuring more children have access to meals and healthier school lunches.

When our children are nourished they are better prepared to learn.

Students who engage in healthy eating behaviors and are physically active become bright, well-focused students, attain higher test scores, and achieve overall better grades.

Successful learners are not only knowledgeable and productive but also emotionally and physically healthy, motivated, prepared for work and economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond the walls of the classroom. The Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition is committed to ensuring the health of our youth now to help ensure a bright future for our families, schools, and communities.

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Save Your Vision

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eyes. Problems in any of these areas will severely impact a child’s ability to learn. Sadly, many children with vision issues are often misdiagnosed as having a learning disability, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADD and ADHD are neurological disorders characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and compulsiveness. Since there are no medical tests to confirm ADD or ADHD, the diagnosis is based on a child demonstrating a set of behavioral symptoms. In a well meaning effort to help children who display these symptoms, many parents, teachers and doctors presume that these children have ADD and start them on medications. However, in many cases they are only treating the symptoms and not the real source of the problem.

Children with undetected vision problems often exhibit symptoms similar to ADD. Children with vision-related learning problems are also highly distractible, have difficulty sustaining attention to tasks, fail to complete assignments, and are often fidgety and are prone to squirm in their seats. Their

inability to remain on task is caused by the discomfort of using their eyes for long periods of time at close ranges, and not due to a psychological deficit in attention.

If you suspect your child might have a visual dysfunction, visit The College of Optometrists in Vision Development web site (www.COVD.org) to find a board certified developmental optometrists in your area who offer comprehensive vision exams that look at all visual abilities and provide treatment for visual dysfunction.

Dr. Latimer is a Board Certified optometric physician and a Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development.

He is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Clinical Optometry for the Northeastern State University Oklahoma of Optometry and has been in private practice in Oklahoma City for 11 years. Vision Therapy Associates • 8800 S. Pennsylvania Avenue • Oklahoma City, OK 73159 Bus: 405.605.5582 • Fax: 405.684.9447 • www.OkcVisionTherapy.com

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February / March 2011

photo provided

child that struggles to learn may have an undetected vision problem.

Vision is far more than just seeing clearly. It is our dominant sense and our

By Dr. Ralph A. Latimer, primary source for gatherOD, FCOVD ing information in learning. Research has shown that 80 percent of what a child perceives, comprehends, and remembers depends on the efficiency of the visual system. Vision is a learned process and continues to develop from birth to adulthood. The brain learns how to use the eyes to see, just as it learns how to use the legs to walk, the hands to grasp, and the mouth to form words.

It is a common misconception that unless a child complains about a vision problem, then that child’s vision is perfectly fine.

Unfortunately, children usually do not have a frame of reference to tell you whether their eyes are working correctly or not. A child may even be able to see “20/20” and still have significant vision issues that prevent them from attaining their full potential. Their academic ability, athletic performance, self-esteem, and social interactions with others are all affected by the efficiency of their visual system.

Although poor vision is highly treatable, it is a much-overlooked cause of learning deficits.

According to the American Optometric Association, 60 percent of students identified as “problem learners” have undetected vision problems. In order for children to be successful in school, they must have other equally important visual skills besides seeing 20/20. Their focusing system must be able to work rapidly, effortlessly, and automatically at all distances. Their eyes must be able to work smoothly together as a team in order to be able to follow a line of print without losing place or to accurately track a moving object such as a thrown ball. The child must also be able to accurately process and interpret the information their brain receives from the

prime

Low ‘T’: The “Other” Menopause

T

he Sunday bridge game would not be an unusual place for a group of friends to discuss the ‘change of life’. ‘Hot flashes’, moodiness, body changes, all signs of Menopause, are easy

By Dr. Harvey to talk about when you and Jenkins, MD many of the people you know are experiencing them. More and more, discussions like these are occurring, not at the bridge table among women, but at the poker table… among Men! Low ‘T’, also known as Andropause or Male Menopause, is a subject that men are taking out of the realm of super-secrecy and are bringing to the forefront of conversation.

What is Low T Low ‘T’ is Low serum testosterone, the hormone in the ‘androgen class’ that is responsible for the secondary-sex characteristics that occur in puberty that make men look, act and function like men. For unknown reasons, the level of testosterone, which is produced by the testes under the direction of pituitary hormones LH and FSH in the brain, drops in men starting as early as

Z-Coil: Not Just a Funky Fashion Shoe photo provided by stock.xchng

[ by Karen Smith-Pearson ]

G

ot Pain? The answer to foot, ankle, leg, knee, hip or sciatica pain could be as simple as this amazing shoe from Z-Coil Pain Relief Footwear. The unusual design gives the shoe a unique appearance. Centered under the heel is a thick conical coil made of steel. The coil acts as a shock absorber. As the coil compresses during heel strike it significantly reduces the impact on the body. Studies by Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories

age 30, and continues dropping at a rate of 1-1.5 percent per year. That’s 10-15 percent for every decade past 30. Unlike the precipitous fall in estrogen levels that women experience in menopause, the gradual loss of testosterone may take a few years to make its impact on men. When it does, in many ways, the symptoms resemble that of a menopausal woman. The key difference is that, whereas Menopause is the end of the reproductive phase of a woman’s life, Andropause does not herald the end of a man’s reproductive life or ability. It will, however, impact his vitality and virility.

Symptoms of Low ‘T’ Symptoms of Andropause include, but are not limited to: fatigue, depression, irritability, nervousness, memory impairment, loss of concentration, loss of confidence, insomnia, hot flashes, and sweating. Sexual symptoms are usually include reduced interest in sex and erectile dysfunction. Physically, a decline in testosterone levels may include changes to body shape and body fat /muscle composition. It may promote insulin-resistance, resulting in abnormal body fat storage

have shown that the coil in Z-Coil footwear absorbs 50 percent more impact when walking or running than conventional shoes.

Z-Coil shoes also return energy, giving you that extra “spring in your step”. The impact energy absorbed by the coil is released and the foot moves forward, providing a 40 percent to 50 percent energy return.

People often report having more energy and feeling less tired at the end of the day.

The New Mexico based American company was founded by Alvaro Z. Gallegos when his foot problems demanded a solution.

Gallegos said: “When I developed plantar fascitis and heel spurs along with back problems from running, I searched for shoes that would allow me to stay active. “ Nothing I found had both the proper support and the cushioning I needed, so I designed and built my own footwear. I engineered Z-Coil footwear to relieve foot, leg and back pain by reducing impact to the body. For more than 10 years now, these shoes have proven to be a safe and effective pain-relief solution for thousands of people without pills, shots or surgery.”

Steve Wooden of Brown’s Shoe Fit explains that the heel-strike impact on the skeletal system can have a major

patterns, leading to ‘Buddha belly’, ‘beer gut’ and the ‘man-boob’ look.

What Can you do about Low T? Talk to your doctor. A simple blood test will be able to confirm the presence of low testosterone and rule out any other condition that may mimic low ‘T’. If low testosterone is confirmed, typically below 250 nanograms per deciliter, your doctor may initiate treatment to supplement your levels with testosterone injection, cream, gel or patches. The goal will be to bring the testosterone level into a balance that would be normal for the man’s age.

In most cases, the mental, physical and sexual symptoms recede or disappear pretty quickly after treatment begins for most men.

If you or the man in your life has symptoms of Low ‘T’, Get tested and get treated.

Life gets really good again.

Dr. Harvey Jenkins is a Harvard-trained Orthopedist & Spine specialist, practicing in South Oklahoma City. He is a Wellness Blogger and is also Owner/Medical Director of BodyTrends, the ElectroSpa in OKC. For more info or questions contact Dr Jenkins at info@ bodytrendspa.com

influence on a person’s overall health and well-being. Many of the pains in the feet, legs and back can be directly linked to the shoes being worn. Z-Coil shoes need to be custom fit by a trained authorized dealer like Steve. The rigid fiberglass Z-Orthotic support base can be fitted with different size coils. Many adjustments can be made to accommodate the individual’s needs.

Among Wooden’s customers was a young man in his early 20s who felt relief from chronic pain the moment he stood up in the Z-Coils. Another man entered the store in a wheel chair. His wife told Steve that her husband could only take six steps at a time before having to sit down. Their home had chairs placed every few feet so that he could stay ambulatory. When the man put on the Z-Coils he found that he was able to walk more than six steps.

Soon he was walking all over the store without stopping to sit. After the purchase, he pushed his wheelchair to the car.

Z-Coils are gaining popularity among nurses and others with jobs that require a lot of walking or standing on hard surfaces. Styles include an athletic-look, sandal, clog, walking shoe, hiking shoe, and work boot or shoe with safety toe. All are available in men’s and women’s sizes.

February / March 2011

17

fitness

Ben Coffman: Guru / Knee Health 19 / Decoding Your Headache 20

Ben Coffman of Fit Body Bootcamp

fitness GURU

Your Fast-Track to a Flat Tummy & Tight Abs

T

he New Year is still young, and if you’ve decided to make this your year for losing the weight and tightening your abs, you’re in luck.

Getting a flat midsection really boils down to two things: 1) Getting rid of the fatty layer that is covering your abdominal muscles; and 2) Tightening and toning your abdominal muscles.

Keep in mind that your results will be seriously hindered if you do the same exercise routine over and over. Your abs need a progressive challenge in order to transform. This means new exercises, different resistance and increased challenge. The following 7 Tight Abs Tips are your Fast-Track ticket to getting a flat, attractive midsection this year.

OK Health & Fitness guru Ben Coffman can be found at Fit Body Bootcamp in Moore. www.okcfitbodybootcamp.com bencoffman8621@yahoo.com 405-205-6001

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February / March 2011

Tight Abs Tip #2 Stop eating junk. Processed foods, refined sugar and high fructose corn syrup do NOT belong in your diet if, especially if you want tight abs. Cutting these items from your diet will allow your body to maintain stable blood sugar levels, alleviating your body’s need to store excess sugar away in fat cells.

The fat stores created by excess sugar intake most often accumulate around your waist, covering up your abdominal muscles. Cut these items from your diet and replace them with real whole foods such as lean meats, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and fruits.

Tight Abs Tip #3 Stop doing long and slow cardio workouts. Instead, use HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) for your cardio workouts. HIIT training uses intense bursts of cardio peppered throughout your workout. This is a surefire way to rev up your metabolism and to get your fat stores to shrink.

Tight Abs Tip #4 Use resistance with your abdominal exercises. Crunches are great, but your body quickly becomes accustomed to the motion, rendering it less effective.

Hold a medicine ball or dumbbell at your chest as you perform your crunches— this will force your abs to work harder, and will achieve better results.

Tight Abs Tip #5 Don’t be fooled. The market is flooded with ‘lose weight’ products and products that claim to flatten your stomach.

Never waste your time or money on: So-called packaged health food that comes with weight loss claims. If

it’s processed in a package with a bunch of chemical additives then it will not help you achieve flat abs.

Abdominal exercise gimmicks as sold on late night infomercials – all you really need is your own body weight, an exercise ball and dumbbells or a medicine ball.

So-called weight loss supplements.

The magic pill for flat abs doesn’t exist, so you’d be wasting your health and money on a bogus product.

Tight Abs Tip #6 Target your lower abs. It’s easy to neglect the lower abs, but they are an important part of the equation. Incorporate the V-Up into your exercise routine: Starting Position: Sit on the edge of an exercise bench; lean back to a 45 degree angle. Extend your legs out until they are level with the floor.

Movement: Exhale and bring your knees and upper body close together, while contracting your abdominals.

Inhale as you slowly release your legs, returning them to the starting position.

Tight Abs Tips #7 Challenge your core often. Don’t limit your abdominal exercise to the gym, incorporate core strengthening during daily life and throughout each workout.

A strong core is the foundation for flat, tight abs.

photos provided by stock.xchng

Tight Abs Tip #1 Perform challenging strength training abdominal exercises at least three times each week. Your abs are like any other muscle in your body—they need to be consistently challenged in order to become stronger and tighter.

fitness

Keeping Up With

Knee Health

photo provided by stock.xchng

H

opefully, you are keeping up with your New Year’s resolutions. For most of us, those include being healthier, losing weight, or exercising more. We know

By Ken Schaecher, that healthy eating habits DPT, OCS and exercise are keys to good health and losing weight. Exercise can be very beneficial if done properly. When there is pain from increased activity or from exercises, it can impede your progress toward your goals. The knees are a common source of pain that can begin with a new or changed exercise program. Knee pain is a common source of impedance toward a healthier lifestyle. There are different types of knee pain that involve different approaches to try to fix the problem. If there is a twisting injury, a person could have torn ligaments or cartilage which would require surgery in most cases. If there is not a traumatic cause to the knee pain, then it may be a biomechanical dysfunction. The most common type of biomechanical dysfunction is known as patellofemoral pain.

Patellofemoral pain is a type of pain caused by a biomechanical dysfunction.

Basically, the knee cap (patella) is pulled too far to the outside edge of the groove in which it should glide. These biomechanics are affected by the way you move and the position you are in during activity. In other words, the way you bend, run, move or do activities (biomechanical forces) are not ideal and the knee cap rubs on the bone.

These mechanical forces can be changed and the pain can be resolved with a few exercises and an awareness of the leg’s position when the knee is bent.

When there are tight lateral (outside) structures and weaker medial (inside) structures it causes knee pain. Altered biomechanics cause this inequality of the mechanical forces at the knee. This problem can be fixed by restoring good patellar biomechanics. Good patellar biomechanics can be restored by stretching the tight lateral structures and strengthening the weaker medial structures.

Stretching the hamstrings (back of the upper leg) and quadriceps (front of the upper leg) and the illiotibial band (outside of the

upper leg) will help loosen the tight structures. Hamstring stretches should be done in a chair sitting at the edge of the chair with your back straight and one leg out straight in front of you. Bend forward at the hips while keeping the back straight until you feel a pulling sensation in the back of the thigh. Quadriceps stretches can be done lying on your stomach with a belt or rope around your foot. Pull on the belt or rope so the foot goes toward the buttocks until you feel a pulling sensation in the front of the thigh. Iliotibial band stretches can be done standing with the leg to be stretched crossed behind the other at the ankle and lean your hip out toward the side of the stretch leg until you feel a pulling sensation along the outside of the thigh.

Hold the stretches for 1 minute each and repeat each stretch 3 times for maximum benefit. It is also beneficial to massage the tight areas, or roll the tight structures over a foam roll. continued on page 21

February / March 2011

19

fitness

Decoding Your Headache

S

top screaming!

Turn out the lights!

I just need to lie down. Can I get an aspirin?

Do any of these comments sound familiar? Do you or someone you know suffer

By Dr. Dawn from headaches? There are many types of headaches including tension, migraine, cluster and sinus, just to name a few. Headaches account for 80 million doctor appointments in the US each year. Headaches account for 157 million lost workdays each year. It is estimated that 50 million pounds of aspirin are taken each year for headache relief. Are you included in these statistics?

The most common type of headache is a tension headache. A tension headache feels like a constricting band around the head. A tension headache can last 30 minutes to 7 days. It is typically located on both sides of the head. A tension headache is not associated with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light, sound or smell. Tension headaches are typically related to tight neck muscles.

Migraine headaches are usually only located on one side of the head. It is classified as a throbbing, severe headache, that worsens with activity, and is often associated with nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light,

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February / March 2011

sound and smell. Many people also experience blind spots or flashing lights prior to the onset of the migraine. Migraine headaches are experienced predominantly in the female population, and often have been linked to hormones.

A cluster headache typically lasts 15 to 180 minutes and is located on one side of

Try to avoid caffeine, foods with high salt and sugar, and alcoholic beverages.

the head. As the name indicates, these headaches come in clusters, sometimes often as 8 times a day. These headaches most often occur in the spring and fall, in contrast to a migraine which has no seasonal predilection. Cluster headaches are predominantly suffered by men. Cluster headaches are frequently associated with tearing of the eyes, nasal congestion, and facial sweating.

A sinus headache is caused by an inflammation of the sinuses. They are often confused with migraine headaches. With a sinus headache you will probably also experience pain, pressure, and fullness in your

cheeks, brow, or forehead. The pain may get worse when you bend forward or lie down, which is also a characteristic of a migraine.

A sinus headache, however, is typically described as a dull headache versus the throbbing migraine. A sinus headache usually causes pain behind the eyes.

Headaches have many causes. These “triggers� may include food, environmental causes, heath related (blood sugar, blood pressure), and sometimes behavioral (not sleeping, job-related stress) Avoiding some of these triggers can help decrease the headaches. Try to avoid caffeine, foods with high salt and sugar, and alcoholic beverages.

Occasionally foods like red wine, red meat, and dairy can also trigger headaches.

Avoiding certain foods and taking pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, help relieve the symptom of the headache, but do not address the cause of the headache. If you suffer from frequent or severe headaches, you should consult a chiropractor or your medical doctor to determine the cause and the best treatment for management of the headaches. Your physician can offer advice on nutritional and lifestyle modifications, and be able to find the exact cause of the headaches. Headaches are not normal and something can be done about them. Do not be a headache statistic!

photos provided by stock.xchng

There are many types of headaches and many causes.

Find out which one you might have and how to prevent it.

Exercises such as squats (above) or lunges can help keep proper knee alignment.

photos provided by stock.xchng

continued from page 19

For the weakness, there are many ways to strengthen the hip abductors and quadriceps that will help pull the knee cap back to straight in the groove and allow the leg to remain in good biomechanical alignment. Some exercises include hip abductions, lunges, squats and step downs. It is very important to keep proper alignment at the knee to prevent painful dysfunction at the knee cap. Make sure the hip, knee and ankle are in a straight line as you bend the knee. In other words, the knee should bend directly over the toes. Finally, for acute pain and flare up of knee pain, it is best to use ice to control the inflammation that may occur. Ice should be applied over the knee with a gel pack or a bag of frozen corn or peas for 15 minutes with the leg elevated above the level of the heart.

As with any injury or musculoskeletal problem, it is best to get professional guidance from your physical therapist. The pain and loss of function can be improved with proper exercise and manual physical therapy. Keep up with the New Year’s resolutions and work toward better health and function.

Dr. Ken Schaecher is an Orthepaedic Board Certified Physical Therapist. He is owner of Physical Therapy Central of Stillwater. PTC has eight clinics across Oklahoma with locations in Chickasha, Choctaw, Elk City, Oklahoma City, Newcastle, Norman, Paul’s Valley, and Stillwater. Visit us on the web at www. ptcentral.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

foodies

Discover Endive 23 / Chava Chocolate 24 / Hot Plate 26

Tasty Ways to Your Heart V alentine’s Day naturally brings thoughts of hearts, flowers, sweetness and love. But did you know that it also falls during American Heart Month? A perfect time to start taking care of your heart and the hearts of the ones you love.

You might think that a heart-healthy diet is boring or flavorless. Actually, eating for your heart can add a lot of flavor, and some of it may come from surprising sources — such as watermelon.

Eating watermelon can help maintain cardiovascular health. That’s because the amino acid called citrulline in watermelon increases free arginine which helps maintain blood flow, the arteries, and overall cardiovascular function.

To get more scrumptious recipes like these, and to learn more about the heart benefits of watermelon, visit www.watermelon.org.

Watermelon Oat Crumble Serves 6 to 8 2 cups rolled or quick cook oats 1/2 cup light brown sugar 1/8 cup honey 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup chopped pecans 6 cups watermelon balls Toss the oats, sugar, honey, cinna­mon and pecans until mixed well. Spread into an even layer on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet. Bake in pre-heated 300°F oven until golden brown.

Turn off oven leaving the tray in for an addi­tional 10 to 15 minutes. Remove and cool. Break into crumbles. Arrange the watermelon balls in 6 to 8 small bowls or wide stemmed glasses and top with the oat crumble.

Watermelon S’mores Serves 4 1 1/2 4

1

cup graham cracker crumbs cup melted dark chocolate chips 2 x 4 x 1-inch-thick rectangles of seedless watermelon cup mini marshmallows

Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the center of 4 plates. Drizzle 1/3 of the dark chocolate over the crumbs. Place a water­melon rectangle over the crumbs and chocolate on

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February / March 2011

each plate. Drizzle 1/3 of the dark chocolate over the watermelon. Sprinkle the marshmallows over the watermelon and drizzle the remaining chocolate over the marshmallows.

Grilled Scallops and Watermelon Mini Kebabs

12 4

24 1/4 1 1 1

sea scallops cups boiling vegetable or chicken broth 1 x 1-inch watermelon cubes cup soy sauce tablespoon sesame oil tablespoon minced garlic tablespoon fresh minced ginger

Cut the scallops into halves across the diameter to create half-moon shapes. Place them in a heatproof casserole dish in a single layer. Pour the boiling clear broth over the scallops and let them poach for 5 minutes. Drain and cool the scallops. On each skewer alternate 1 halfmoon scallop, then 2 water­melon cubes, then another half-moon scallop. Mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger and brush the kebabs as they are grilled over a medium hot grill for about 90 seconds per side turning once. Serve warm. Serves 12 as an appetizer.

MATERIAL PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES

Use heart-shaped and circular cookie cutters to shape a variety of watermelon treats.

foodies

Eat Healthy and Well

Discover Endive

Resolving to eat better doesn’t have to condemn you to a diet of lettuce and celery sticks. To make that healthy-eating resolution stick, think about the pleasures you can add to your menus, not about the temptations you need to avoid. Serving endive (pronounced “on-deev”) makes a meal seem like a special occasion, yet this prized member of the chicory family contributes only one calorie per leaf. That’s a smart way to indulge.

You probably already know that endive leaves make elegant dippers — a low-calorie and fatfree alternative to chips. And maybe you have sliced some endive into a salad to dress it up.

It pairs beautifully with nuts and cool-weather fruits such as apples, pears and persimmons.

Great cooked But endive also shines in cooked dishes. Braised or baked, it’s a favorite in France, although French cooks tend to blanket it with cream or béchamel sauce. It doesn’t need such rich treatment. Use sautéed endive and leeks as a bed for lean baked fish.

Broil halved endives with olive oil and drizzle with a homemade Caesar-style dressing. Slow-braise whole endives with fragrant fresh thyme as a potato replacement alongside roast chicken. With endive on the menu, eating health­fully means eating well.

At the market When shopping for endive, look for plump, pale, blemish-free heads. Red endive tends to be smaller than the white variety, but the two taste the same, so you can use them interchangeably — or mix it up — in recipes. At home, store endive in your refrigerator’s vegetable crisper, wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. It will last for 10 to 14 days, much longer than other lettuces. For more useful tips and recipe videos, visit www.endive.com.

range them on the bed of vegetables and transfer skillet to the oven, uncovered. Bake until fish just flakes, 10 to 12 minutes.

Divide vegetables and fish among 6 dinner plates. Top fish with a generous drizzle of olive oil and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Broiled Endive with Caesar Dressing

MATERIAL PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES

Serves 6 Dressing: 1/4 cup regular mayonnaise 2 tablespoons extra virgin

olive oil 1 clove garlic, finely minced 1 anchovy fillet, finely minced 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar,

or to taste

Salt and freshly

ground black pepper Salad: 9 large California

endives, halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra

virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons freshly

grated Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon minced parsley Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, anchovy and wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.

Whisk in a little water to make the dressing thin enough to drizzle.

Preheat broiler and place an oven rack in the lowest position. Cut a thin slice off the rounded side of each endive half so it sits on a baking sheet without rolling. Put endive halves on baking sheet cut side up. Brush with half of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil until nicely browned in spots, about 10 minutes.

Turn endives over, brush with remaining oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil on rounded side until nicely browned and tender, about 10 minutes longer. Turn endives over again, raise oven rack to about 6 inches from heat, and broil briefly to crisp the edges.

Transfer endives to a serving platter, cut side up. Drizzle with dressing, then garnish with Parmesan and parsley. Serve hot.

Broiled Endive with Caesar Dressing

Uncover and remove thyme sprigs.

Raise heat to high and cook until endives are browned on the pan side, about 1 min­ute. With tongs, transfer to a platter, browned side up. Season with several grinds of black pepper and garnish with parsley. Serve hot or warm.

Braised Endive with Butter and Fresh Thyme

Halibut Baked with Endive, Leeks and Tarragon

Serves 6 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons extra virgin

olive oil, plus more

for drizzling 6 cups thinly sliced leeks

Salt and freshly

ground black pepper 6 California endives,

halved lengthwise and cored 2 teaspoons chopped

fresh tarragon 6 halibut fillets, 5 to

6 ounces each 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Preheat oven to 425°F. In ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven wide enough to hold the fish in one layer, warm butter and olive oil over moderate heat. Add leeks and season with salt and pepper. Stir well, then cover, reduce to moderately low and cook, stirring occasion­ally, until leeks have softened, 10 to 15 minutes. Do not let them brown.

Cut endive halves crosswise into 1/4-inch-wide pieces. Stir endive and tarragon into skillet, season with more salt and pepper, cover and continue cooking until endive has softened slightly, 3 to 4 minutes.

Season halibut fillets on both sides with salt and pepper. Ar-

Serves 6 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 8 sprigs fresh thyme 6 large or 1 dozen medium

California endives

Salt and freshly

ground black pepper 1 tablespoon chopped parsley Melt butter over moderately low heat in a skillet large enough to hold endives in one layer. Add thyme sprigs, then arrange endives on top. Season with salt.

Cover and cook slowly until endives are tender when pierced, 20 to 30 minutes, turning them with tongs halfway through.

Acupuncture...

It’s not just needles...

Is it time for you to give it a try?

(405) 514-0478

Mark Triplett M.S.O.M. Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine 10966 N. May OKC, OK 73034 www.triplettacupuncture.com

Chava Vital Chocolate The chocolate with much more! [ by Karen Smith-Pearson ]

29.5% of Oklahoma children are overweight or obese, according to the Childhood Obesity Action Network.

The Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition creates awareness about the impact of childhood obesity on our families, communities, and our state.

BECOME PART OF THE SOLUTION • Join the Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition • Become an advocate in your own community • Be a healthy and active role model For more information and ways to get involved: Visit our website,www.fitkidsok.org Find us on : Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition Follow us on : @OKFitKids

The Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition is a statewide Initiative coordinated by the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy.

N

ot long ago eating chocolate was considered a decadent pleasure. In recent years studies have shown that dark chocolate is actually good for you.

The phytonutrients (nutrients from plants) and flavonoids (color pigments in fruits and vegetables) provide an abundance of health benefits. The endorphin stimulation provides a feel-good factor. And it tastes good too! What more could you want?

Well, here it is! Chava Vital Chocolate, made by Waiora, is organic, Rainforest Alliance certified, vegan and vegetarian, Kosher, and glutenfree. It is sweetened with organic dried cane sugar and only 40 calories per piece. But wait! There’s lots more!

In addition to the 70 percent dark chocolate, Chava is infused with a hyper-potent chocolate extract, which is a proprietary cocoa concentrate with significantly higher levels of Aldimines (those feel-good properties) than those found in cocoa powder. Along with almond extract, the intense flavor is extraordinary.

Also, each piece of Chava has 5 drops of Waiora’s Natural Cellular Defense, which is a great way to detox. NCD has activated liquid Zeolite, which are volcanic molecules formed like a honey-comb. These molecules are super-charged with the ability to remove heavy metals, toxins, chemicals, and anything that does not belong in the body. It literally “takes out the trash” by sending it straight out via the elimination systems. Normally the immune system is designed to take care of these toxins, but the NCD relieves the overburdened liver and immune system with its unique activity.

Chava has the highest nutritional profile of any food found on the planet, with the total flavonoid count of 663mg and the extraordinary ORAC value of 37,208 per piece. What does this mean? Many sources agree that preliminary studies indicate flavonoids may display anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. ORAC stands for: Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, which measures the anti-oxidant capacity of foods and beverages. The higher the ORAC value, the more cell protection from oxidative damage the food contains. The astounding levels of antioxidants in Chava means that you would have to eat 5 pounds of spinach to equal one piece of Chava.

The great news is that consuming Chava benefits the skin, nails, pancreas, liver, kidneys, arteries, guards against strokes and helps slow the aging process in body and brain. The Aldimines are responsible for enhancing mood, stimulating energy and promoting an overall sense of well-being.

Don’t be fooled. Ordinary store-brand chocolate has none of these benefits. The processing and additives have destroyed the nutrient value of the chocolate. It also has emulsifiers, white sugar, milk, flavorings and most disturbing, LEAD. Now you have discovered the Dark Secret: The intense flavor, velvety overtones and smooth finish of Chava is loaded with an explosion of antioxidants in every vital piece. All natural, nothing artificial, always earthfriendly, Chava delights the palate and invigorates the soul. This may possibly be the best natural medicine yet! Try a piece today! Available at Karen’s Emporium (see ad) or online: www.mychava.com/582867

foodies

Hot Plate

Comfort Food with a Twist Oklahoma City's Sage blends good ingredients with the heart of Deep Deuce

[ by Brandy Morris ]

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February / March 2011

The perfect meal for those who want a satisfying meal without feeling the guilt of over indulgence. a lawyer by trade, handles the business and creative side. Together the couple has made the Sage restaurant a flourishing restaurant with a separate lounge and catering service.

The Grilled Seasonal Vegetable Platter is described as “Seasoned with sea salt, fresh herbs and served with tri-colored chips and hummus on the menu. When the the plate arrives your tastes buds are in for a treat. Yellow squash, zucchini, portobello

mushrooms, red and green bell peppers and fresh tomatoes are piled high. The vegetables are cooked slightly tender. The grilled natural flavors of the food with the fresh herbs dance on your taste buds. The colorful tri-colored chips and pita bread meet the vegetables at the other side of the plate with hummus nestled in the middle. The hummus has a nice mellow flavor that is not over bearing and does not cause you to immediately reach for a breath mint. The perfect meal for those who want a satisfying meal without feeling the guilt of over indulgence.

The Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwich comes with a side item. A gluten-free sauteed spinach was chosen. The sandwich is piled high with a lean medium roast beef, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and red pepper aioli. The sauce complimented the roast beef, enhancing the flavor. The sauteed spinach is lightly sauteed and topped with feta cheese, portobello mushrooms and diced tomatoes.

If you order the sauteed spinach by itself you would not be disappointed.

For more information and hours of operation visit www.sageokc.com.

photos by bradley smith

W

hat was once the Little Page Hotel in the heart of Deep Deuce is now a renovated restaurant with a hint of the past and a taste of the times called Sage. This restaurant comes to life from the creative side of the owners Charifa and Kevin Smith. The Sage restaurant brings a New York style to the heart of Deep Deuce.

The mural of Oklahoma City on the back wall reminds me of the era that shaped the neighborhood. The heartbeat of jazz still echoes here. The mahogany rich wood of the bar in contrast with the yellow overlay work well with the dark overtones that highlight the restaurant as the sunlight dances through the windows.

Chef Kevin Smith has perfected the art of balancing the natural flavor of the food he prepares with a gentle hint of creative spice.

The result is a flavor that pleasures the palette.

Kevin’s idea is fusion, “Take old comfort food and kick it up a notch with just adding a few things that I think people will enjoy,” Kevin said.

The menu is full of items to satisfy the dedicated carnivore and the faithful vegetarian. The menu is loaded with a variety of salads, sandwiches, open facedsandwiches and entrees. One of the popular items on the menu is the Mac and Cheese.

But this is no ordinary Mac and Cheese.

“Everybody loves macaroni and cheese, we have added shrimp, pesto and a variety of other ingredients and it has turned out to be fantastic,” Kevin said.

The menu has several options that are gluten-free for those patrons who avoid gluten in their diets.

An unusual item on the menu is a salt bar.

Premium sea salts from various regions of the world with their own unique flavor are available. Kevin said the flavor is based on the environment of the salt and how it is acquired.

There are a variety of flavors, smoked, Cyprus Flake, a couple from France with different flavors, and salt from Portugal and Bali.

While Kevin develops and creates masterpieces in the kitchen, his wife Charifa,

foodies

PHOTOS PROVIDED

What is the Deep Deuce?

The Deep Deuce was once the segregated neighborhood of Oklahoma City. It began in the 300-400 blocks of NE 2nd St and grew to include the 200 block.

“In 1919, Roscoe Dungee, owner of the newspaper The Black Dispatch, came to the aid of resident William Floyd who purchased a piece of property in the 200 block of NE 2nd.

At the time it was against the law for blacks to own property in that area. Mr. Floyd has tried to take possession of the property several times and each time was jailed. Mr. Dungee posted his bail several times. This continued until Floyd, backed by Dungee, took the case to Federal Court and won.” (taken from the pages of the Black Dispatch and quoted

by Anita Arnold of Blac Inc.) The Deep Deuce was a community struggling to win its piece of the American Dream. But what transcended the boundaries became the heart of American

Jazz and was inspiration for one of Americas celebrated authors, Ralph Ellison.

The Aldridge Theater now just a memory, was the place to see legendary performers such as Charlie Christian, Ma Rainey, Ida Cox and Mamie Smith grace the stage. Zelia Page Breaux and Earnest Whitlow were business partners and owned the Aldridge Theater.

Mrs. Breaux’s contribution to the community went beyond the Aldridge, she was the supervisor of music for the black public schools.

Her bands performed everywhere, in 1933 they performed at the Worlds Fair, while there she caught the attention of Duke Ellington. The Little Page Hotel, across the street (now Sage Restaurant) was one of many hotels where many of the performers stayed while in town.

Musician Charlie Christian who lived next door to the Aldridge and played there with his brother, left Deep Deuce at the age of 23 and became a figure in the Benny Goodman Band.

He is remembered for introducing the singlestring solo on the electric guitar.

“Because of his knowledge and talents with the guitar, he knew how to play the electric guitar when he picked it up,” Anita Arnold said. Christian died at the age of 25. He was inducted with a unanimous vote into the Nesuhi Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.

The Deep Deuce was the home of the legendary band called the Blue Devils. The band started in 1923 with five members and as the

years went by the band groomed new and upcoming talent on their way to greatness. The founding five members eventually became members of the Count Basie Band.

Musician Jimmy Rushing established his own career and was known as a blues shouter.

He has been recognized with a commemorative stamp in the US Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp Collection.

“The Deep Deuce was a mecca of talent, national bands would stop on their way through and recruit performers for their bands,” said Arnold.

Renowned writer Ralph Ellison wrote about the Deuce and his friends Jimmy Rushing and Charlie Christian. Ellison grew up in Deep Deuce and graduated from Douglas High School in 1931. Music was his first love as Ellison played the trumpet. But Ellison’s gift to the world was through his literature. He is greatest known for his book “The Invisible Man,” which won a National Book Award.

To learn more about Deep Deuce and its storied history, you can purchase “Images of America, Oklahoma City Music Deep Deuce and Beyond,” written by Anita G. Arnold.

Special thanks to Mrs. Arnold and the Black Liberated Arts Center Inc. for the wealth of knowledge and the use of the photo of Oklahoma City.

Your Child Deserves the Chance to Succeed in School!

Vision Therapy Gives Your Child that Chance Undetected Vision Problems Can Include:

• Smart in everything but school • Low self-esteem, poor self image • Fatigue, frustration, stress • Temper are ups, aggressiveness • Avoidance of near work • Frequent loss of place while reading Omit inserts, or rereads letters/words • Omits,

• Poor reading comprehension • Difficulty copying from the chalkboard • Book held too close to the eyes • Inconsistent or poor sports performance • Poor handwriting • Letter and word reversals • Confuses similar looking words

Call us today to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION, with OKC’s only Optometrist that is board certiied in Pediatrics and Developmental Vision, and let us show you how Vision Therapy can change your child’s life!

Dr. Ralph A. Latimer, OD, FCOVD 8800 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 100, Oklahoma City

405.605.5582

www.childrensvisioncenter.com

fitness

Babies on Board

Infant Feeding 30 / Treating Sick Children 31

Preemies at Risk: How to Protect Them

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MATERIAL PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES

ith state and federal budgets stretched thin, and cost-cutting a primary motivator for insurers, programs providing healthcare services for our tiniest citizens - especially premature infants - are becoming more limited and restrictive. But, being armed with the right information can help parents best navigate what health issues to watch out for and how to best protect their family in this rationing environment and, in particular, during this time of year.

Parents of Preemies Take Note Preemies are at increased risk for a variety of health complications, including respiratory illnesses and chronic lung disease - even if they’re born just a few weeks early. This is because they have underdeveloped lungs and immature immune systems in comparison with full-term babies.

As we approach the winter season, and seasonal viral activity escalates, it’s important that parents of preemies understand their baby’s health risks and ensure they have access to a variety of therapeutic options to help keep them healthy. For example, in addition to colds and the flu, there is another common virus that can be especially serious for the premature infant population: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

RSV is a common, seasonal and easily spread virus that infects nearly all children by their second birthday. Most kids just get moderate to severe cold-like symptoms, however high-risk infants may get severe RSV disease. RSV disease is the most common cause of death due to a virus in children under five years of age and is responsible for an estimated 125,000 infant hospitalizations annually in the United States.

There are simple ways to help protect your baby from viruses such as RSV, including washing hands and bedding frequently, and limiting your baby’s exposure to large groups and environmental tobacco smoke. And, of course, speak with your child’s healthcare provider about any concerns and other prevention options.

Preemies Now Face Added Challenges While being diligent about monitoring the health needs of your little one greatly helps them live a healthy life, it’s also important to note how current economic pressures and their impact on the healthcare system can affect your baby’s access to services.

In particular, preemies and other vulnerable babies have been facing additional challenges because of healthcare system constraints, which are creating more restrictive reimbursement policies and forcing program cuts that limit access to care. Across the country, for example, 45 percent of local health departments experienced budget cuts in 2009, which led to nearly a quarter of these departments reducing funding for maternal and child health programs, such as Medicaid’s Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program.

Private and public insurers alike are also creating barriers to care by using increasingly restrictive care guidelines to drive their eligibility decisions. For example, in 2009 the American Academy of Pediatrics issued more restrictive guidelines for RSV emphasizing cost issues over new or existing clinical data.

“One of the biggest challenges to ensure infants have access to the proper care they need

is that insurers are adopting guidelines without considering all available clinical evidence, rather than analyzing high-risk infants on a case-bycase basis under the direction of the child’s physician,” said Dr. Mitch Goldstein, president of the National Perinatal Association.

What Can Parents Do? If you’re the parent of a preemie, talk with your child’s pediatrician about proper prevention for all illnesses, such as respiratory illnesses like RSV disease. “If healthcare coverage is denied, you can likely appeal the decision. Your doctor should be able to advise you on the appeals process and share additional resources that can help you,” said Dr. Goldstein. “When there is advocacy from both the parent and the physician, there is more likelihood of success.”

All babies deserve equal access to preventive care, and physicians, nurses, payers and parents must work together to protect them.

Go to www.preemievoices.com or www.nationalperinatal.org for more information on preemies and infant health. To learn more about the signs, symptoms and risk factors of RSV disease, as well as additional prevention tips, visit www.rsvprotection.com.

February / March 2011

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babies

Feeding Your Infant A Guide for the First Few Months

Breastfeeding Ask any expert and they’ll tell you: breastfeeding is best. That’s why virtually every new mom is encour­aged to give breastfeeding a chance at the outset, even if they are unsure whether they want to breast­feed or indeed will be able to. The advice is at least to try and then go from there, knowing that you do have other options.

Breast milk itself is packed with nutrients to help your baby grow, develop and stay healthy. That’s why experts often recommend breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of a baby’s life and even longer if possible. But some moms might not realize that breast­feeding also benefits them.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that breast­feeding can help moms lose pregnancy weight more quickly. It also helps reduce postpartum bleeding by releasing the hormone oxytocin. Over the long term, breastfeeding may also help reduce the risk 30

February / March 2011

of ovarian and breast cancer and may help increase bone density, which can protect against osteoporosis.

“Some new moms are unsure about breastfeeding,” explains Nikki. “But with some simple hints and a bit of practice, soon mom and baby will find their comfor­table position and a natural rhythm.”

Bottle Feeding “It’s a fact that some women find breastfeeding diffi­cult, nor do all moms want to breastfeed,” explains Nikki. “It is a personal choice. But one of the great learning experiences of motherhood is being able to politely listen to the unsolicited advice and opinions of others. Bottle feeding, either with expressed milk or infant formula is a safe and practical alternative for mother and child.”

Introducing a bottle, and therefore more help in car­ing for her baby, can be liberating for a mom. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature baby bottles are designed to allow baby to switch from breast to bottle, and back again.

The Closer to Nature line of baby bottles and acces­sories from Tommee Tippee feature an ultra-sensitive anti-colic valve that lets babies feed at their own pace with less air, vacuum build-up and nipple collapse. The simply intuitive bottle shape provides a more comfortable hold and breastfeeding-like closeness.

Expressing Milk Expressing simply means removing milk from

your breasts so that it can be safely stored and given to your baby later. Expressing allows you to continue to give your baby all the nutritional benefits of your breast milk, even when you can’t feed your baby yourself.

“Like bottle feeding, expressing milk can be a huge benefit for moms,” explains Nikki.

“You can safely store a supply of milk for those times when you know you won’t be available to breastfeed. Plus, you give your partner an opportunity to participate in feeding, an important bonding time with your child. From a practical standpoint, expressing can help relieve engorged breasts, while stimulating your body to produce even more milk for your baby.”

Unless recommended by a healthcare professional, it is typically not advisable to express milk until baby is about four to six weeks old. This gives you plenty of time to establish breastfeeding and to resolve any little difficulties that may arise.

Sold in 45 countries around the world, Tommee Tippee is now being offered in the United States and Canada exclusively at Babies “R” Us and Toys “R” Us. For more helpful advice and product information, please visit www. tommeetippee.com, or find them on Facebook. com/tommeetippeenorthamerica and Twitter. com/tommeetippee_na.

To learn more about the Tommee Tippee Health Professional, Nikki, please visit: http://www.tommeetippee.co.uk/pages/ meet_nikki/.

MATERIAL PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES

M

otherhood comes with a host of accessories and a whole bunch of questions. One of the most common worries new moms face concerns feeding their new bundle of joy. Breastfeed or bottle feed? Can I do both? What if the baby doesn’t like the bottle? Is formula ok?

“All these questions are normal,” explains Nikki H., a UK qualified midwife and one of the infant feeding experts at Tommee Tippee, the number-one brand of infant and toddler feeding products in Great Britain now available in the U.S. “New moms are often surprised at how much they already know intuitively about feeding their babies.”

Still, questions abound. So Tommee Tippee offers the following advice.

babies Tips for Treating a Sick Child Once the winter months set in, it seems there’s always some sort of “bug” going around school. Between colds, flu, strep and other common illnesses, kids are lucky to escape this season without coming down with something. But if they do get sick, what should you do? These tips will help parents and caregivers see kids through the illness and get them back on the way to health.

Treating a Fever • Not every fever needs treatment. Fevers are part of how the body fights off infection. The American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) says that if your child is eating and sleeping well, and has periods of playfulness, he or she probably doesn’t need any treatment. But consult with your child’s doctor to find out what’s best in each case. The AAP has these tips for taking care of a child with a fever: • Keep his room and your home comfortably cool, and dress him lightly.

• Encourage her to drink extra fluid such as water, diluted fruit juices or commercially prepared oral electrolyte solutions.

• If the fever is a symptom of a highly contagious disease such as chickenpox or the flu, keep your child away from other children, elderly people, and people whose immune systems are compromised.

Treating Colds and Flu • While it’s tempting to seek medicinal treatment for every ailment, there is no cure for the cold or flu, and antibiotics don’t work on the viruses that cause colds and flu. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) says that headaches, muscle aches, sore throats and some fevers can be treated with pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Be sure you give the correct dose according to his or her age and weight.

• Cough and cold medicines are not recommended for children, especially those younger than two.

• Make sure your child rests and drinks plenty of fluids.

• A humidifier can help moisten the air in your child’s bedroom and will help with nasal congestion.

Medicating Children • When a doctor does prescribe an antibiotic or antiviral medication, there are several im-

MATERIAL PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES

Moms should keep the following tips in mind while breastfeeding: • Bring your baby to your breast, not your breast to your baby.

• Avoid sore nipples by making sure your baby latches on properly.

• Remember your baby’s feeding position: chin to breast and nose to nipple.

• Eat and drink plenty and regularly.

• Accept all offers of help in the early weeks so you can devote yourself to establishing breastfeeding.

• Feeding on demand ensures a good supply of breast milk.

• Additionally, always seek prompt medical attention if: • Your baby seems unusually sleepy and/or refuses feeds.

• Your baby seems unusually unsettled and is cry­ing more than usual.

• You feel flu-like, hot, cold, aching or generally unwell.

• You have any redness, tenderness or lumpiness in your breasts.

To make introducing a bottle easier, here are some suggestions: • If mom usually breastfeeds, have someone else offer the baby a bottle. If your partner or other family member introduces the bottle, baby won’t have the usual cues to start seeking out the breast.

• Have your feeding helper offer about a half ounce of breast milk or formula about an hour or two after a regular feed.

Baby should be alert, but not so hungry that she’s upset.

• Sometimes it helps to drip a little breast milk on the baby’s lips or tongue. Then gently introduce the bottle nipple into her mouth. If she becomes frustrated or isn’t interested after 10 minutes or so, take a little break and try again later.

portant things to be aware of. The AAP recommends finishing all prescribed doses of an antibiotic, even if the child starts to feel better soon. They also recommend: • Sticking with the schedule - don’t skip doses and ask the doctor what to do if a dose isn’t given on time.

• Giving the right amount - Never give a child more medicine because you think it might work better or faster. It could do more harm than good.

• Don’t try to hide the medicine - If a child hates the taste of the medicine, or tries to spit it out, it might be tempting to try to hide it in milk or food. But this could affect how well the medicine works, so do not do this unless specifically directed by your child’s doctor.

For liquid prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that your child does hate the taste of, pharmacies can add Flavorx flavors to improve the taste. There are 15 to 20 flavors to choose from, including bubblegum, grape, strawberry and watermelon. Giving kids the power of choice when it comes to the taste of their medicine really makes a difference.

The flavoring service is available at 40,000 major chain pharmacies across the country. Go to www.flavorx.com/locator to find one near you.

If your child is prescribed medication in pill form, there are ways to help the medicine go down. A flavored spray such as Pill Glide helps medications, vitamins and supplements go down without giving kids a stuck-in-the-throat feeling. It is available in grape and strawberry flavors and can be found in several national chain pharmacies. Find out more about both products at www.flavorx.com.

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Warning Signs

Seconds matter when facing a heart attack. If you or someone with you has one or more of the following sings, don’t delay! Call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest hospital.

Chest Discomfort Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath This can occur with or without chest discomfort. Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

(Source: The American Heart Association)

Matters of the

Heart

By Melissa Herron | Photos provided by Norman Regional Hospital

C

hances are you or someone you love will die from heart disease. It’s the number one killer of men and women not only in Oklahoma, but also in the United States.

In the battle for healthy hearts, Norman Regional’s Heart Hospital is arming people with the tools, knowledge and interventions they need to defeat disease. Through prevention, detection and treatment Norman Regional’s Heart Hospital at the HealthPlex is bringing together all the pieces for total heart health.

Dr. Kyle Toal is a cardiothoracic surgeon who practices at Norman Regional. He also serves as the Medical Director of Norman Regional’s cardiovascular services.

“It’s important that people become dedicated fighters of the number one adult killer in the United States, armed with a full knowledge of all the options available to them, no matter where they choose to have their healthcare,” Toal said.

Located on Interstate 35 and Tecumseh Road in Norman, the Heart Hospital at the HealthPlex has a Chest Pain Center, specialized staff and critical care unit all dedicated to heart patients. Its program also features rehabilitation and exercise for patients recovering from heart surgery.

34

February / March 2011

Prevention Most people want to avoid going to the hospital for heart problems, so how can they prevent disease from occurring? Toal said that preventative measures will be at the forefront of all future treatment plans for people with heart issues.

“One thing I have learned in more than thirty years as a physician is that there are no miracle cures,” Toal said. “The best treatment is the hardest treatment, prevention, and that involves a lot of motivation.”

“Most of us want a pill or a 12-step program to treat heart problems. We want a quick fix surgery or we want someone to do it for us when really the answer lies within all of us,” Toal said.

Detection It is critical to catch heart disease early. Talk to your doctor if you have any risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or a family history of the disease. Obesity and tobacco use are also risk factors and can contribute to heart disease.

Norman Regional also offers heart scans, a simple test that measures the amount of calcium buildup within the arteries and heart. This test only costs $100 and can be completed in as little as 10 minutes. Much like a CAT scan, the heart scan takes a picture of the heart that physicians can use to see any potential problems.

Treatment Toal said his advice to patients suffering from any form of cardiovascular continued on page 41

(left) Dr. Gary Dunn, M.D. stands in one of OU Medical Center's facilities. (bottom) the OU Medical Center is one of fewer than 100 facilities nationwide to offer TEM surgery.

Advances in Colorectal Cancer Care Minimally-invasive Procedure Improves Recovery and Outcomes

[I]

By April Sandefer | Dunn photo by Bradley Smith | Building Photo provided by OU Medical Center

t’s a cancer that once was seldom talked about, but awareness of colorectal cancer is growing and with good reason. More than 51,000 people in the United States will die of colon and rectal cancer this year alone.

Treating rectal cancer has generally required a somewhat invasive surgery with a sometimes difficult recovery period for patients that can last for one to three months. Now, a surgeon with the Peggy and Charles Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center is pioneering a less invasive approach for patients here in Oklahoma with improved recovery and outcomes. The surgery is performed at OU Medical Center.

It’s call transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM), a procedure that is becoming the technique of choice for patients and surgeons. TEM is a minimally invasive approach, utilizing specialized equipment that provides magnified vision and superior optics for removing tumors throughout the entire rectum.

It has been used for some time in Europe, but is still relatively uncommon in this country. In fact, OU Medical Center is one of what may be fewer than 100 facilities nationwide that perform the procedure.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this option to our patients,” said Gary Dunn, M.D., a colorectal surgeon continued on page 41

February / March 2011

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February / March 2011

(opposite) Since her treatment, Julie Herron has had a remarkable change in her health with renewed strength and energy. (left) Cancer Treatment Centers of America’s Tulsa hospital. For more information about CTCA, please visit www. cancercenter.com

J

by Jennifer Tatum for the Cancer Treatment Centers of America

ulie Herron likens her journey with cancer to someone who’s read the last few pages of a mystery novel and knows how the story ends, but reads the novel anyway.

Shortly after she was diagnosed with stage 3C colon cancer in Tulsa in August 2008, Julie began by calling it “no big deal.” But her diagnosis was a big deal, and her faith reminded her that there was a lot of work ahead of her.

It’s the thought of a happy ending that Julie had to hang onto when so much in her life seemed to work against her. As a child, Julie’s family was abandoned by her father before she lost her mother to a brain tumor and her grandmother to a stroke. Julie married and divorced at a young age and was left to care not only for her own two sons but also for her siblings and grandfather. It was a time of scarcity for Julie, but she found her way through by leaning on her faith and generous friends.

Many years later, Julie is now a happily remarried grandmother, but she fought for

“From the first time I came to CTCA, I felt hope. No one gave me an expiration date for my life.” breath at the thought of six months of chemotherapy. A PET scan three months after the chemotherapy ended revealed that the colon cancer had metastasized to her ovaries.

Within a few weeks, the tumors grew to watermelon size, and Julie looked pregnant.

When her oncologist suggested another six months of the same chemotherapy, which “would only buy me time, not keep me from dying,” she decided she wanted a second opinion.

Julie came to Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Tulsa in August 2009, where the diagnosis of metastasized colon cancer (now stage 4) was confirmed. She began a different chemotherapy and received support of many kinds: nutritional, spiritual, naturo-

pathic and emotional. In addition, she received help to ease pain and treatment side effects.

“From the first time I came to CTCA, I felt hope. No one gave me an expiration date for my life; everyone was so gracious and encouraging. There’s a different spirit here,” she said. “I think I used every service available.”

“CTCA has an integrative approach. We believe in treating the whole patient,” Says Dr. Leon Yoder, gastroenterologist at CTCA. “It begins with a thorough evaluation by the physician. We then offer nutritional support – knowing that if we keep up a patient’s nutrition, any treatment will work more effectively. We also have naturopathic support, to help us determine what is important to promote healing of cancer.”

But, in January 2010, scans showed new cancer growth. Julie prepared for surgery. After close to 10 hours of surgery and the removal of multiple tumors throughout her abdominal region -- and while in the recovery room -- Julie stopped breathing and almost died. The experience rocked her faith and left her reeling.

But a visit from one of Julie’s friends brought her a reminder that she sorely needed – she hadn’t died. She had made it through the surgery and had a life to live on the other side of it. Since then, Julie has had a remarkable change in her health with renewed strength and energy.

Over 90 percent of all colon cancers occur in people over age 50—and there are often no symptoms in the early stages. The American Cancer Society considers both men and women age 50 and older to be at an average risk for developing colon cancer, and everyone should begin their yearly screenings at this age if there are no other risk factors involved.

Dr. Yoder encourages everyone to stay on top of their screenings and be cognizant of other contributing factors. “Colonoscopies have proven their value – we’ve seen a de-

Treatment Options for Colon Cancer Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Tulsa offers a number of treatment options for colon cancer patients.

Surgery: Surgery can be used to treat colon cancer in both early and advanced stages. Depending on the stage and treatment goals, surgery may be used in conjunction with other treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation. Surgical options may include a polypectomy, colon resection, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), laparoscopic colectomy or colostomy.

Chemotherapy: The anti-cancer drugs used in chemotherapy are designed to inhibit the rapid division of cancer cells. CTCA offers a variety of chemotherapy options as well as delivery methods such as fractionated dose, maintenance or continuous infusion chemotherapy, which are designed to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy while reducing side effects.

Radiation: Radiation targets tumors with precision high-energy rays that enable doctors to deliver concentrated doses directly to the tumor. CTCA offers some of the most leading-edge radiation therapies for colon cancer, like HDR Brachytherapy, Varian’s RapidArc® and TomoTherapy®.

To learn more about CTCA, visit cancercenter.com.

crease in cancer incidence over the last 20 years thanks to increased screenings. The occurrence of colon cancer also decreases when you engage in other preventative measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, diet and activity level.”

Screening enables doctors to detect and treat pre-cancerous polyps before they develop into cancer, and benign polyps can be removed during the screening process. Examinations may include a colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy. A doctor might recommend additional tests for anyone experiencing symptoms of colon cancer, to help better understand what may be causing those symptoms.

For Julie, thanks to her willingness to fight when it felt like all was lost, there will be more stories to tell, with more beginnings, middles and endings to write.

No case is typical. You should not expect to experience these results.

February / March 2011

37

Oklahoma Heritage

on displ ay Take a walk with the dinosaurs, American Cowboys and Western Art in Oklahoma.

By Brandy Morris * Photos by Bradley Smith

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February / March 2011

(opposite) Code of the West , By Herb Mignery; At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum (left) Chiricahua Apache, Sacred Rain Arrow, By Allan Houser; At the Gilcrease (this statue is proudly displayed as the symbol on the Oklahoma license plate)

February / March 2011

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1

3

4

O

klahoma’s weather can often times make it difficult to find activities for the whole family. Whether you are young or old, you can exercise your body and mind at one of Oklahoma’s fine museums. ¶ Oklahoma’s museums offer something for everyone.

Guided tours, workshops and activities for all age groups, restaurants, a lesson in history and art, and a safe environment to walk and get exercise.

2

(1) Raptor, At the Sam Noble Museum of Natural Science (2) Canyon Princess, By Gerald Balciar; At the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum (3) Pentaceratops; At the Sam Noble Museum of Natural Science.

The ten-and-a-half-foot skull holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s largest. (4) Crisita, By Doug Hyde; At the Gilcrease For more information on events at the museums mentioned, check out the events calendar in the back of the magazine.

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National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is a great place for children and adults of all ages. The museum features several great western art collections.

“It is a great time to come and visit the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, we have a special exhibition in our Silverman Gallery, featuring Native American fine art on Native American Print Makers. It is an educational exhibit as well as enjoyable in terms of the art,” Chuck Schroeder, museums executive director said. The exhibition runs through May 8th.

Allen True’s West will be at the museum from Feb. 4 through May 15. The collection is a traveling art collection from the Denver Art Museum. “So much of western art is rooted in illustrators such as Remington and Russell and illustration is how they got started,” Schroeder said.

Oklahoma Youth Expo Art Show runs Feb.5 through March 9. Tyler Crow, a participant in the show three years ago, was invited to participate in last years “Small Works Great Wonders Art Show,” during the Prix De West and won the Buyers Choice Award. The expo is a great opportunity for artists to showcase their talent.

There are several artist workshops available for the young and old to sharpen their skills at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Call for more information on the workshops that are available.

Sam Noble Museum of Natural History The Sam Noble Museum of Natural History was founded in 1899 and sits on the beautiful University of Oklahoma campus. The museum has collected more than 7 million objects since its inception. In 2000, the museum opened the doors on its 198,000 square foot facility.

You can immerse your self in history and science at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History. There are 14 curators and 12 different collections. The curators are constantly involved in ongoing research projects and collecting new artifacts from around the world.

February / March 2011

There are five permanent collections at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History. The Hall of Ancient Life, Hall of Natural Wonders, Hall of the People of Oklahoma, Gallery of World Cultures and the Paleozoic Gallery.

The permanent collections are displayed in dioramas that allow the visitor to step into the world around them. Visitors learn about history through visual, sensory and kinesthetic learning. Its not everyday that one can touch artifacts in a museum, but you can touch and feel many of the dinosaur fossils at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History. Visitors of all ages can visit the museums Family Discovery Room for more hands-on learning with the museums artifacts.

Bring in your artifacts, fossils, rocks, feathers, or any object of natural history on Feb. 13th and the curators in the museums various departments will identify them for you.

Admission is free and is sponsored by OU Physicians Norman Clinic. There will be an amazing star show by the astronomy club and other entertainment provided.

Gilcrease Museum The Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa is the home to one of the largest collections of Western Art and Artifacts in the country. There are more than 10,000 pieces of fine art at the museum. The Gilcrease is the home of 18 of Frederic Remington’s bronzes and the largest collection of Thomas Moran and Charles M. Russell works and paintings. There are more than 100,000 books and manuscripts and other documents in the collection. Including documents signed

by Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. The museum is owned by the City of Tulsa and maintained by the University of Tulsa.

A Treasury of American Prints from the Gilcrease Collection is on display now through March 13. The art of 31 printmakers including Charles Banks Wilson and Thomas Moran are on display.

There are many treasures to be found at the museums of Oklahoma. The greatest is the gift of knowledge that you can share with others.

continued from page 35

continued from page 34

disease is to explore both operative Toal’s tips for a healthy and non-operative options. The same heart condition can, in most cases, have • 45 minutes of more than one possible treatment exercise a day, and treatment can be tailored to the either in one session patient and their condition. or multiple times throughout the day At the Norman Regional Heart Hospital, physicians employ the lat• A heart-healthy est advancements in cardiac care. diet such as a These include endograft stenting of Mediterranean, high in fish, vegetables aortic aneurysms, which has largeand whole grains ly replaced open repair of an aneurysm. This procedure can shorten • A daily lowa patient’s hospital stay from two dose aspirin weeks to one day, Toal said. Also • Reducing stress performed at the heart hospital is off-pump coronary bypass, commonly referred to as “beating heart surgery.” When patients only need one or two bypasses, surgeons can perform surgery without stopping the heart. Toal said this reflects the Society of Thoracic Surgeons best practice guidelines.

Other advances at Norman’s heart hospital include video-assisted thoracic surgery, endoscopic vein harvest and - coming soon - roboticassisted thoracic surgery. In fact, the only two procedures not performed at the hospital are heart transplants and robotic mitral valve repair.

Even after surgery or an interventional procedure, Norman Regional has programs for its heart patients. A specialized cardiac rehabilitation unit helps get patients back to their normal activities.

Rehab at Norman’s Heart Hospital also includes a free gym membership for when patients return home.

“Life after open heart surgery had better be more active, fuller, more gratifying, more work, and more youthful or it is not being done for the right reason in my opinion,” Toal said.

Norman Regional’s nationally certified cardiac rehab program also provides nutritional information, diabetes education, body composition testing and monitoring and psychological support for the patient and family.

“The most positive predictive factor of post-operative success following an open heart surgery is the patient’s own dedication to and practice of the aforementioned exercise, dietary and lifestyle modifications and how rigorously they apply themselves,” Toal said.

“At Norman Regional’s Heart Hospital, we don’t care where you go for your heart care,” Toal said. “Far more important to us is to dedicate ourselves to patient education and state-of-the-art disease detection technology to make patients aware of the disease process and all of the choices available for their successful and well-informed treatment.”

For more information about the Norman Regional Heart Hospital at the HealthPlex visit www.NormanRegional.com/heart. You can also be referred to a cardiologist or any physician 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling HealthLink at (405) 440-8802.

with the Cancer Center. “It’s a challenging technique because it has a steep learning curve for the surgeon, which may be why more surgeons do not offer it to their patients. It definitely provides benefits for our patients with improved outcomes, less discomfort following surgery and a more rapid recovery.”

William “Bill” Logan, 73, of Paden, OK, recently underwent TEM at OU Medical Center. He “This was so said he was up and walking the same day and out of the hospital the next. Logan added the procemuch better. dure is a great improvement over his previous colorectal surgery, The recovery which kept him in the hospital for a week and in bed recovering for was faster another month.

“This was so much better. The and much less recovery was faster and much less difficult,” Logan said.

In a recent retrospective study, difficult.” researchers found that the TEM procedure was much more likely — William Logan to result in a complete resection of the cancer with better margins.

The better the margin, the less likely the cancer is to recur and the rate of recurrence was significantly lower with TEM as compared to transanal excision or TA (5 percent versus 25 percent). The study also found that TEM was also more likely to allow surgeons to remove the entire lesion intact, which makes evaluation easier for the pathologist.

Dunn, who is board certified in colon and rectal surgery as well as general surgery, explained the TEM procedure allows for more precise resection (removal) of the tumor, which is likely a major force behind the lower rates of recurrence.

“It’s a procedure that does require specialized equipment that is expensive and that may be another reason we haven’t seen more surgeons in this country move toward TEM for their patients, but the value to the patient is immeasurable. In many patients, you can avoid the need for an invasive abdominal surgery and possibly the need for a colostomy,” Dunn explained.

Because the learning curve with TEM is steep, it is important to seek out a surgeon experienced with TEM. For more information on Dunn and colorectal surgery, visit www.oumedicine.com As Oklahoma’s only comprehensive academic cancer center, the Peggy and Charles Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center is raising the standard of cancer treatment in the state through compassionate care, innovative research and a commitment to education. Cancer Center members are conducting more than 100 cancer-related research projects supported by more than $20 million in annual funding from sponsors like the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society. Later this year, the Cancer Center will move into a state-of-the-art, 210,000-square-foot facility on the OU Health Sciences Center campus in Oklahoma City.

For more information on the Cancer Center, visit www.OUCancer.org.

February / March 2011

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The real world is full of opportunities to explore and grow. And our Oklahoma children need safe places to learn about the world around them.

That’s why OETA-The Oklahoma Network partners with parents, teachers and caregivers to ensure kids grow physically, emotionally and intellectually in a healthy, safe environment.

OETA is proud to serve as a trusted guide for little explorers from every walk of life.

Curious for more?

Visit www.oeta.tv

advertisement Calumet

270 I-44

EAT WILD!!!

By Karen Smith-Pearson

Situated between the north and south forks of the Canadian River, just a few miles south of Calumet, near Route 66 and highway 270 is the 3 Wallows Ranch, where a small herd of grassfed cattle dine on young wheatgrass, clover and a pasture full of native bluestem grass. The contented cows are allowed to roam free all their lives and are never fed grain. Owner Dale Miller explains that grains are very irritating to the digestive system and causes inflammation. Their nutrient-rich diet is supplemented with pressed alfalfa pellets and hay in

El Reno

times of drought. These hardy bovines are never given growth hormones, antibiotics, steroids or other chemicals.

This completely natural approach yields a leaner beef product for the fitness-conscious consumer. Miller is currently working toward USDA Organic Certification and strives to keep his land and animals “green and clean.”

So far the business of selling of the beef has just been a word-of-mouth enterprise among health-conscious family and friends. Now readers and friends of OKhealth&fitness will have the opportunity to order quarters, halves or whole portions for their freezers. Miller’s goal is to make it possible to buy this higher quality of beef at a comparably much lower price. An internet search would reveal just how considerable a savings is being offered. By the time the processing is complete, the consumer will be paying approximately $4.20$4.30 per pound for all cuts of the beef.

The price per pound varies according to the amount of process able meat per grassfed animal. The custom butchering option lets the customer choose how many roasts, how much ground beef, etc.

Buying for the freezer is a great way to get produce and meat products when

they are optimally available and at a cheaper price.

In addition to the chemical and drugfree aspect, grassfed beef is better for human health in multiple ways, according to the most comprehensive analysis to date. The 2009 study was a joint effort between the USDA and researchers at Clemson University in South Carolina.

Compared with grain-fed animals, grassfed beef was found to be: lower in total fat, higher in beta-carotene, higher in vitamin E, higher in B vitamins, higher in calcium, magnesium and potassium, higher in Omega 3’s, healthier ratio of Omega 6’s and Omega 3’s, higher in CLA’s (conjugated linoleic acid, a potential cancer fighter), higher in vaccenic acid (which can be transformed into CLA), and lower in the saturated fats linked with heart disease. More information can be found at: www. eatwild.com/healthbenefits.htm People are curious about the name of the ranch. The land has a unique feature that’s hard to find these days: the buffalo wallow. Long ago herds of buffalo would make large bowl-shaped depressions and wallow around in them to rub parasites from their hide. When the buffalo herds were nearing extinction, cattle took their place, grazing on the same land and native grasses.

The land has been in the Miller family since 1967 and efforts have been made to retain the vestiges of the past while looking forward to current scientific advancements. Identifying the benefits of health and fitness is a high priority..

When he’s not being a steward of the land and his ranch, Dale Miller works for the State of Oklahoma under his licenses as a licensed professional counselor and licensed marital and family therapist.

Three Wallows Ranch Grassfed beef Calumet, Oklahoma Dale Miller, owner 405-789-0129

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Talk Presented by Payne County Bank

Fiscal Fitness

Your Financial Roadmap

W

hile many of us read and enjoy Oklahoma Health & Fitness for its content regarding our physical health, we are reminded of the important role that our financial health plays in

By Dan Johnson, Payne County our overall mental and physBank Vice ical well-being.

President Unreasonable debt loads and overspending are burdens that weigh us down and drain us mentally, physically, and, of course, financially. Financial worry is one of the chief causes of many physical and mental maladies. If this worry can be alleviated through improved fiscal fitness, we will realize a positive impact on our life. There is something about being in control of our finances that gives us a sense of freedom and relief.

Over the course of the next few months, I will share my thoughts about how you can achieve fiscal fitness. If you are already fiscally fit, I congratulate you--but I also ask

that you share this information with others who may be still in training. Remember that each situation is unique—not everyone will be starting at the same place.

A strong and healthy personal fiscal policy is easier to attain than one might think. It takes discipline and attention to the financial details of your life, but the reward is great!

You Can Get There From Here!

First, assess where you are. Be honest with yourself about your true financial condition. You need to know the balance of all of your outstanding obligations, not just their monthly payments!

Next, set reasonable short-, medium-, and long-term goals as a part of your overall plan. Your general goals should include living within your means, decreasing your debt, and saving for the future. In addition to these, you will likely have some very specific goals of your own. If you are married, your spouse must be a part of this process, or it will fail.

After your goals are set, you will need knowledge and tools to help you achieve them. The Internet has a vast array of information available on this topic. We have dedicated our Bank’s resources to help educate as many people as possible. You will find this in-

formation online at our website shown below.

Additionally, we recommend the resources available at either www.DaveRamsey.com or www.Crown.org to help you refine your financial stewardship skills.

Your Budget, Your Financial Road Map You must have full awareness of all your financial inflows and outflows. By listing each source of income and every possible expense or payment to others, you will get a full picture of your finances over a given period of time. Keep your goals in mind while budgeting so that you can build a budget that includes setting aside the needed amounts to meet these goals on time.

For a detailed discussion and free tools to help you in the budgeting process, visit our website at www.

PayneCountyBank.com/FinancialHealth. php. You’ll find everything you need to get started on the road to fiscal fitness.

Dan Johnson is Executive Vice President of Payne County Bank, a 100% employeeowned community bank located in Perkins, Oklahoma and Member, FDIC. Find us on the web at www.PayneCountyBank.com, or email Dan at Dan@PayneCountyBank.com.

Dr. Steve Johnston

Natural Facts

T

he festivities are over and the decorations have been put away. Sadly the clothes that fit you in October are now two sizes too small. “You need to go on a diet!’” you tell yourself. But which diet?

Do you know what a real diet is? Most people identify a diet by a name, such as “The Milkweed Juice Diet”, “The 30 Day Wonder Bun Diet” or the “Air Diet”, etc. ad Nauseam. Each diet is guaranteed to take weight off, put it on or just make you runway model beautiful. Yes with all the “wonder diets” out there you will loose weight, spend endless amounts of money, expect miracles and end up with loose dangling 44

February / March 2011

skin in place of the fat. Along with this dreadful image depression sets in and your health deteriorates, so you begin to eat again. Your weight climbs and new bulges develop and suddenly you realize that you weigh more than you did before. You become further depressed and now disgusted. Congratulations! You now have climbed on the diet roller coaster.

In desperation you move on to the next “wonder diet” and take that same ride again.

Realizing that the “diets” have failed, you move on to a higher plane of desperation.

You pawn your cat to afford the new wonder pill, maybe have your stomach stapled or start a collection of corsets and girdles.

Another idea you may have is to “cut calories.” If you cut the calories, your energy level will tank and you could compromise yourself

to a number of illnesses, and not to mention your friends may look for ways to avoid you because you have had a major attitude adjustment. Is it worth it? You can’t decide so you decide to go to lunch. At lunch you have 3 or 4 servings of a meal and top it off with a rich dessert loaded with a sugar substitute and wash it all down with a so called “diet” soda.

(What a beautiful marketing tool - there is nothing diet about diet soda or diet anything.)

Does it not amaze you how ignorant and silly people have become to their own health and well being? It constantly amazes me. It is a shame that everyone is on one fad diet or another. Most of which are hurting them physically, mentally or financially.

What should be recommended, but 99.9 percent of the time is not, is

PHOTOS PROVIDED / MONEY photo provided by stock.xchng

Wellness GURU

talk to normalize your body’s weight and proportions! This is so simple, healthy, inexpensive and it is permanent.

What is a diet? A diet is what you eat.

What is normal? That answer comes within you. What you think or perceive of yourself or what you would like to become IS your normal. By the way, what is a calorie? A calorie is the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree centigrade -ENERGY.

BEST FAT BURNING FOODS Apples, Citrus Fruits (or Vitamin C supplements), Yogurt, Hard Cheese, PROTEIN (helps you in your weight normalizing program), Beans, Whole Grains, Oatmeal (not instant), Lentils, Vegetables (especially Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrots).

Berries Are high in antioxidants, good fat burners and good for you.

BEST FAT BURNING HERBS AND SEASONINGS Cayenne Pepper (all Chile peppers), Ginger, Curry, Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage.

Dr. Steve Johnston can be reached by email at drstevejohnston@yahoo.com. Read his blog at drstevejohnston.vpweb.com and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Steve call 405-637-8586.

LDING A CULTURE BUI

Good Acts Make Good Business

Making a Difference

CREC Wellness Program [ By Lisa Lewis ]

PHOTOS provided by stock.xchng / CREC PHOTO PROVIDED

W

hile many companies are resorting to cutbacks and layoffs in present tough economic times, one Stillwater-based company is taking an active interest in helping its employees tighten their belts in a less figurative sense.

Central Rural Electric Cooperative‘s wellness program has been established for many years but has become more active in the past two and a half years, said Linda Henning, CREC’s benefits/wellness coordinator. This is because of a strong commitment to health that began with the board of trustees and trickled down to management and employees.

“CREC employees’ health is a top priority,” she said. “CREC knows that in order to continue to build a culture of excellence, it must invest in the health of its employees.

“The employees are the people who make it happen day in and day out, and it is important for them to maintain a healthy lifestyle so they can produce their best work for our members.”

The CREC distribution cooperative has been in operation since 1938 and serves 18,000 accounts spanning seven central Oklahoma counties. The company employs about 90 people, Communications Specialist Jillianne Tebow said.

CREC’s multi-faceted wellness program includes programs and contests orchestrated by a wellness committee, as well as an on-

site fitness room with various exercise equipment and a Wii Fit. The cooperative also offers healthy food alternatives in the break room and coordinates an all-employee activity, such as bowling or a bike-a-thon, at least once a year. This variety allows employees to pick what works best for them and encourages more employees to get involved, Henning said.

The company’s employee newsletter also offers health-geared tips, recipes and articles.

CREC has also offered picnics, yearly health fairs, flu shots, a nutritional counselor, My Health coaches for tobacco cessation and weight management, a Weight Watchers at Work program, Jenny Craig and NutriSystem. The Weight Watchers at Work group has lost more than 500 total pounds.

Because some of the activities and programs are offered to trustees, retirees and family members in addition to employees, between 80 and 200 people usually participate, Henning said. Incentives for participating have included gifts, monetary prizes and vacation time.

“We recently gave each employee who wanted to participate a pedometer to log their steps for four months,” she said. “The contest was called “Walkin’ to New Orleans.”

It was fun to see those who wore their pedometers and to see how many people participated. It got people talking about walking and exercising, and it showed people how much they walk just doing household chores or how much they don’t walk.”

Dispatcher Ashley Mangus, winner of the “Walkin’ to New Orleans” contest, said she was motivated to participate because of another health venture she was slated to participate in.

“I was going to run in my first 5K about

OF EXCELLENCE

the time the contest was going to end, so I was able to use that training to my advantage in the contest,” she said.

Henning said CREC’s wellness program has resulted in an overall heightened awareness of individual health among employees.

“Employees are aware of coworkers’ goals to lose weight or become more active and able to act as accountability partners for each other,” she said. “There have been many times when I have heard an employee hold another accountable by reminding them not to eat that extra cookie, or I have heard an employee congratulate another on a weight loss success.”

“The communication about health issues has risen and there is definitely more interaction with peers regarding health issues and concerns.”

She added that the company’s yearly health fairs help raise awareness and educate individuals regarding their health statuses and concerns.

“If people have high cholesterol or are diabetic, they often find out at the health fair and are able to address those issues,” Henning said. “People have made lifestyle changes because of things they were made aware of at the health fair.”

February / March 2011

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talk

Events december 2010 / january 2011

February Boy Scout Workshops: Astronomy Feb. 5 - Sam Noble 405-325-4712 Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show Jan. 31 thru Feb. 6 - Tulsa – 918-481-6871 A Treasury of American Prints Through March 13 - Tulsa - 918-596-2700 Valentine Gift Gallery - Feb. 1-14 Stillwater - 405-533-8539 Kids Dig Books - Feb. 3, March 3 Tulsa - 918-596-2700 Tulsa Ballet presents: “Taming of the Shrew” - Feb. 4-6 - Tulsa - 918-749-6030 Oklahoma Bluegrass Club Music Festival - Feb. 5 - Del City - 405-760-3064 Saturdays for Kids - Feb. 5, March 5 Oklahoma City - 405-478-2250

Third Tuesday Jazz - Feb. 15, March 15 Tulsa - 918-596-2700 Western Hills Fiddlers Festival - Feb. 16-20 - Wagoner - 918-772-2545 Men’s Expo - Feb. 17 Stillwater - 405-377-1275 Leake Collector Car Show & Auction Feb. 18-19 - Oklahoma City - 800-722-9942 Stillwater Angels of No Mercy Roller Derby - Feb. 19 - Stillwater - 405-334-3408 President’s Day Blue River Trout Derby Feb. 19-20 - Tishomingo - 580-371-2175 Children’s Workshop: Gods and Heroes Feb. 19 & 26 - Norman - 405-325-4712

Mardi Gras Parade - Mar. 5 Norman – 405-360-3279

Sunday Matinee Films - Feb. 20, Mar. 6 Tulsa - 918-596-2700

Lavender Plants on Sale Mar. 5 – July 31 Lavender Valley Acres Contact Jag Sodhi - 580-588-2855; www.lavendervalleyacres.com

Family Art Workshop - Feb. 5 & 19, March 5 & 19 - Tulsa - 918-596-2700

Sanders & Lake Murray Resort Bluegrass Festival - Feb. 25-26 Ardmore - 918-423-4891

Bank of America Museums on Us Weekend - Feb. 5-6, March 5-6 Oklahoma City – 405-478-2250

Oklahoma Youth Expo Western Art Show - Feb. 25 thru March 9 Oklahoma City – 405-478-2250

First Monday of every month is free admission. Feb. 7 - Sam Noble 405-325-4712

Science Night: Star Power Feb. 25 Sam Noble 405-325-4712

Heart of America Youth Rodeo - Mar. 5-6 Elk City – 405-834-4528

Open Studio for Adult Artists - Feb. 8 & 15, March 8 & 22 - Tulsa - 918-596-2700

“An Evening of Jazz” featuring the Carl V. Moore Experience - 405-524-3800

Free admission at Sam Noble Mar. 7 - 405-325-4712

Pairing Wine and Chocolate: A Tasting Seminar - Feb. 10 - Norman - 405-325-4712

Evening Concert with Riders in the Sky Feb. 26 - Oklahoma City - 405-478-2250

NJCAA Region II Basketball Tournament Mar. 10-13 - Shawnee - 405-878-2140

George Miksch Sutton Lecture Series Feb. 10 - Norman - 405-325-4712

March Celebrity Attractions presents: “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” Mar. 1-6 - Tulsa - 918-596-7109

RV Super Show - Mar. 10-13 Oklahoma City – 405-376-3897

LIVE on the Plaza - Feb. 11 Oklahoma City - 405-308-5991 PBR Oklahoma City Invitational Feb. 11-13 - Oklahoma City - 719-242-2800 Tulsa Indian Art Festival - Feb. 11-13 Tulsa - 918-298-2300 Bart and Nadia Festival Feb. 11-13 Cox Convention Center info at bartandnadiafestival.com Valentine’s Dinner and Dance - Feb. 12 Oklahoma City - 405-478-2250 Science in Action and Object I.D. Day Feb. 13 - Norman - 405-325-4712

Spring Art Exhibit - Mar. 1-31 Stillwater - 405-533-8435 Oklahoma City International Auto Show - Mar. 2-6 - Oklahoma City - 405-607-0400 Armstrong Auditorium presents: Opole, National Philharmonic of Poland - Mar. 3 Edmond - 405-285-1010 First Friday Gallery Walk - Mar. 4 Oklahoma City - 405-525-2688 Momentum: Art Doesn’t Stand Still Mar. 4-5 - Edmond - 405-879-2400 Timed Event Championship - Mar. 4-6 Guthrie - 800-595-7433

sPrING Is the MushrooM seasoN. GroW soMe shIItakes!

Shiitake Mushroom Log Kits

Oklahoma Bluegrass Club Music Festival - Mar. 5 - Del City - 405-760-3064 Bob Wills Birthday Bash - Mar. 5 Tulsa - 918-584-2306

Adult Workshop: How Paleo-Indians Butchered Bison Mar. 10 Sam Noble 405-325-4712 2nd Friday Circuit of Art - Mar. 11 Norman - 405-360-1162 LIVE on the Plaza - Mar. 11 Oklahoma City - 405-308-5991 Grand Lake Boat & Sport Show Mar. 11-13 - Grove - 918-786-2286

Fort Reno Ghost Tour - Mar. 19 El Reno - 405-262-3987 Oklahoma City St. Patrick’s Day Parade Mar. 19 - Oklahoma City - 405-297-8912 Garland Arts & Craft Show - Mar. 19-20 Ponca City - 580.762.2273 Taste of Stillwater - Mar. 22 Stillwater - 405-377-1275 Indian Territory Days - Mar. 24-25 Tahlequah - 888-999-6007 Early Bird Bluegrass Festival - Mar. 2426 - Oklahoma City - 800.869.1451 Oklahoma/Texas Longhorn Show - Mar. 24-27 - Stillwater - 405-377-1275 Chickasha Springfest - Mar. 25-26 Chickasha - 405-224-0787 Home & Garden Show - Mar.25-27 Lawton - 580-355-2490 Tulsa Ballet presents: “Exceptional Synergy” - Mar. 25-27 Tulsa - 918-749-6030 101 Ranch Collectors Western Memorabilia Show - Mar. 26 Ponca City – 580-765-2727

Northwest Oklahoma Square Dance Festival -Mar. 12 - Woodward 580-837-5468

A Mammoth Sleepover Mar. 25 Sam Noble 405-325-4712

The Museum Store Sidewalk Sale - Mar. 12-26 - Oklahoma City - 405-478-2250

Women’s Expo - Mar. 26 Claremore – 918-341-2818

Spring Break Escape - Mar. 14-18 Norman - 405-325-4712

Ailey 2 - 405-524-3800

Armstrong Auditorium presents: Anderson & Roe Concert Piano Duo Mar. 15 - Edmond - 405-285-1010 Tulsa International Auto Show - Mar. 17-20 - Tulsa - 918-742-2626

Your own log-grown shiitakes are the best ~ Healthy • Delicious • A Smart Buy! (Sales support Mushrooms in Ghana Project)

Movie Night at the Museum - Mar. 18 Norman - 405-325-4712

Perkins, OK | 800-792-0053 | www.shiitakemushroomlog.com

Northwest Oklahoma Outdoor Expo Mar. 18-20 - Woodward - 580-216-3481

Spring into Summer Craft Show Mar. 12 - Stillwater - 580-455-2273

Grow organic shiitakes for 3-4 years inside like plants or outside in shade.

Lost Creek MushrooM FarM

Green Country Classic Ranch Rodeo & Trade Show - Mar. 18-19 Claremore - 918-342-5357

Lavender Valley Acres Mar. 18-July 31 Open for the season Contact Jag Sodhi - 580-588-2855; www. lavendervalleyacres.com

The Big Read: Panel Discussion - Mar. 29 Norman - 405-325-4712 Fort Washita Fur Trade Era Rendezvous Mar. 30-Apr. 3 - Oklahoma City 405.308.5991 Know of an event?

E-mail Bradley Smith at bradokhealth@gmail.com Want to share?

E-mail photos or stories from any of these events to Brandy Morris at brandyokhealth@gmail.com