Questions. Answers. Knowledge.
Did you know?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
60 MINUTES OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR CHILDREN DAILY.
Can exercise and diet make “pre-diabetes” go away?
When does a bump on the head mean a visit to the ER?
Yes, this condition can go away. Pre-diabetes is a term used to describe abnormally high blood glucose levels, but are still lower than the threshold for diabetes. More specifically, it is an elevated hemoglobin A1c level between 5.7 and 6.4. An A1c level below 5.7 is considered normal. An A1c test shows the average level of glucose in your blood for the past three months.
Head injuries are common, especially in children. There are well established guidelines to help doctors evaluate the risk of a serious brain injury. Although every person is unique and no injury is risk-free, a person should be seen in the ER if they have a head injury and:
The biggest factor leading to an elevated A1c level is being overweight. Poor eating habits and lack of exercise are major causes for being overweight. Weight loss through positive lifestyle changes can lower A1c levels. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 60 minutes of physical activity for children daily. For older children and teenagers, this should include cardiovascular exercises and strength training. Diet changes should focus on limiting refined carbohydrates such as soda, cookies, and white bread while eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and minimally processed whole grains. Red meat, poultry, and milk can be consumed in moderation. Phillip Valmores, DO Bon Secours Pediatrics of Richmond Richmond | 804.285.6811 www.bonsecours.com
• are confused, disoriented, knocked unconscious, or cannot be wakened. • cannot walk or talk normally, or do simple things when asked. • are not acting normal (agitated, very sleepy, slow to respond, asking the same questions over and over). • have repeated vomiting, a severe headache, endured a severe injury (fall more than five feet, major car accident, struck by a car, struck in the head by a high impact object like a bat). If the answer is NO to all the above, the risk of having a brain injury is less than 0.05 percent. Seek emergency care if in doubt. Kevin Connelly, DO, Medical Director Henrico Doctors’ Hospital Pediatric ER Richmond | 804.289.4500 www.henricodoctors.com
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Is Greek yogurt healthier than regular yogurt? Yogurt can be an enjoyable part of a healthy diet. In its natural form, it is low in calories, contains natural probiotics, and is a great source of calcium. In addition, most people buy yogurt in portion-controlled containers making it a simple graband-go option for busy lifestyles. Greek yogurt has risen in popularity from regular yogurt as a better health option because it is higher in protein and lower in sugar. This results from straining more of the curdled liquid portion (the whey) from the yogurt; it also accounts for its tart taste and slightly lesser calcium content, when compared to regular yogurt (though both types are still a good calcium source). The higher protein is often preferred when trying to cut calories and lose weight. My own preference is to choose the yogurt closest to its natural form which includes the natural fat and very little added sugar. If you are looking for higher protein, then the Greek would be the best option. Plain Greek yogurt with full fat is creamy, filling and tastes delicious when mixed with real fruit. Madge Zacharias, MD, Founder Zacharias Ganey Health Institute, LLC North Chesterfield | 804.358.1000 www.ZGHealth.com
