You’ve tried dieting. You’ve tried exercise. But there are parts of your body that simply refuse to tone. With SmartLipo™ LaserBodySculpting, you can change all that and transform yourself today. This cutting-edge treatment uses a laser to literally melt away fat in trouble spots like your abdomen, thighs, arms and neck. The results are permanent and since the treatment is minimally invasive, you’ll be in the doctor’s office one day - and out turning heads the next. SmartLipo™ is the first laser-assisted liposuction procedure approved by the FDA. It is completely safe and offers far more advantages than traditional liposuction. It is virtually painless and unlike traditional liposuction it can be performed under local anesthesia in the office setting. The technique is further superior because the instruments used for SmartLipo™ are much smaller than those used in traditional liposuction. For the patient, the benefits are huge - tiny incisions, less tissue trauma, and significantly less downtime. After the treatment area is injected with an anesthetic solution, a onemillimeter flexible laser optic fiber is inserted under the skin and into the area of fat to be removed. The SmartLipo™ laser targets only the fat cells, leaving the healthy cells intact. Once the fat cells have been melted, the liquefied fat is gently removed with suction. In addition, there is less bruising than with traditional liposuction because the laser also cauterizes the blood vessels. The most significant aspect of this technique that makes it superior to traditional liposuction is its ability to tighten loose skin. Collagen is one of the main building blocks in your body that gives your skin firmness, strength, and elasticity.
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For more information about Dr. Nguyen, his clinic and the Ultroid ™ treatment procedure, visit Advanced Hemorrhoid Solutions’ website at http://www.donotsufferinsilence.com or call to schedule a free consultation at 813-920-9799.
By Terra Walters - RHI
Caroline S. had suffered with painful, bleeding hemorrhoids for over 18 years, ever since the birth of her daughter. Over the years she tried a variety of over-thecounter products, but they didn’t help her at all and she feared that surgery was her only alternative since the bleeding was becoming progressively worse.
“My father and two brothers had surgery to correct the same condition and I remember the intense pain that they experienced for months after the surgery had been performed,” said Caroline. Then, a friend told her about a commercial she had heard on the radio regarding a new procedure to treat the problem. She called Advanced Hemorrhoid Solutions, and after looking at their website, made an appointment. Dr. Linh Nguyen performed the first treatment on Caroline and it made her condition much better. “I couldn’t believe it, there was hardly anymore bleeding or pain after only one treatment!” I told Dr. Nguyen, “You are my life saver, because I didn’t have to go through that nasty surgery.”
The UltroidTM device is a breakthrough in painless hemorrhoid treatment that works by causing “electrolysis” to occur beneath the skin. The electrical current works with chemicals that naturally exist in the human body. During the process, water molecules are broken down into hydrogen (H+) and hydroxide (OH-). The hydrogen is released in the form of small gas bubbles and the hydroxide combines with sodium (Na+) in the blood forming sodium hydroxide, which targets the irritated vein and causes it to shrink.
The procedure is an alternative to surgery. It is covered by medical insurance and no injection, cutting, or burning is involved. It is performed as an outpatient procedure, requires no anesthesia or pre-preparation by the patient. To learn more about Advanced Hemorrhoid Solutions, visit their website at: www.DoNotSufferInSilence.com or call (813) 920-9799 in Tampa or (727) 2090214 in Pinellas Park.
Why suffer in silence when the solution to alleviating your pain is only a phone call away?
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APRIL | 2009
“Tell our advertisers you saw them here first”
Clarity MedSpa is operated by two board certified physicians. Dr. Danny Abbruzzese and Dr. Khalid Saeed have extensive training in Aesthetic Medicine and nutrition. They combine their love of art and medicine to help you achieve your goals. Treatments are personally performed by our board certified medical directors.
The SmartLipo™ laser stimulates collagen formation, thus tightening the skin after the fat is removed. SmartLipo™ delivers smooth body contouring results previously unobtainable with traditional liposuction. Because of the gentle nature of the procedure, most patients are back to work within a day or two. Patients may return to normal exercise within two weeks. A compression garment is worn for several weeks for optimum results. With SmartLipo™, you can finally have the look and confidence you have always wanted. At the forefront of this high-tech procedure in the Tampa Bay area is Clarity MedSpa. Owned and operated by two board-certified physicians, Drs. Danny Abbruzzese and Khalid Saeed have extensive training and experience in SmartLipo™ and in Aesthetic Medicine.
“SmartLipo™ is our speciality,” Dr. Abbruzzese says. “It is the most sought-after aesthetic procedure today and we take great pride in delivering outstanding results to our patients.” “The skin tightening that SmartLipo™ gives you is amazing,” Dr. Saeed says. “You don’t get that with procedures like Vaser®.” In addition to SmartLipo™, Clarity MedSpa is a full-service medical spa and offers additional services including Botox, dermal fillers (such as Restylane and Radiesse), microdermabrasion, laser hair removal, chemical peels, massage, facials, permanent makeup, eyebrow threading, and an innovative medically-supervised weight loss program (Salubria Weight Loss Systems).
Clarity MedSpa was designed with the patients’ comfort and convenience in mind. Treatments are tailored for each individual and offered in a luxurious and elegant setting.
The staff consists of professionally
trained and certified medical and aesthetic specialists. All medical and surgical procedures are performed by Drs. Abbruzzese and Saeed. “Follow-up is very important to us,” Dr. Abbruzzese says. “Our patients have our personal cell phone numbers. They can call us anytime with questions.” “You have direct access to us,” Dr. Saeed says. “What other practice can make that statement?” Clarity MedSpa is easily accessible to Lutz, Land O Lakes, New Tampa, Tampa, and Trinity via the Suncoast Expressway, SR 54, or Highway 41. Come in and see for yourself what separates Clarity MedSpa from everyone else. The choice is clear - Clarity clear.
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APRIL | 2009
PAGE 3
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Dr. Levin believes and emphasizes that healthy feet promote overall orthopedic health. Many patients with foot pain also complain of back, neck, and even headache pain. The feet are the base and foundation that support the weight of our entire body. And, poor foot posture can impede daily activities.
By: B y: Am Amy An Ande Andersen ders rsen en - R RHI HI
If you thought there was no relationship between your chronic back pain and your feet, think again. Did you know that the source of headaches could be at the opposite end of your body?
Dr. Stephen Levin, podiatrist and owner of New Tampa Foot and Ankle, knows there can be a relationship between your feet and other neuromuscular or skeletal problems. Feet and ankles are his specialty. His enthusiasm to share his knowledge is contagious, and his whole office is friendly and upbeat. The office is open five days a week, and same-day appointments are available.
Satisfied Patients
Peter was able to play tennis again painlessly after an in-office procedure for heel pain.
Every Step Counts At New Tampa Foot and Ankle, three modern, well-equipped exam rooms serve your needs -- whether you have a simple hangnail or a mysterious foot rash. If it’s at or below the ankle, this is the place to go. Calluses and bunions, warts, or preventative diabetic foot care are all available. X- ray and ultrasound are available as well. Check out the comfortable shoes and diabetic socks on display in the waiting room. The practice combines medical and minor surgical and diagnostic procedures for your convenience. If a more complex foot or ankle procedure is needed, Dr. Levin has privileges at University Community Hospital.
One diabetic patient underwent a non-invasive vascular exam (using the PAD Net System) in the office. Dr. Levin saw some abnormalities and seamlessly referred him to a vascular surgeon who treated several clots in his leg. Had
Children
this gone unnoticed any longer, this man was at
Dr. Levin is involved in the community and says he finds it rewarding to see a child he diagnosed and treated for flat feet play in little league. One child had one foot treated, and the parents were so pleased that he is returning to have the other foot corrected. The right footwear is as important for children as it is for adults. Custom arch supports can be ordered.
risk of losing not only his leg but possibly his life. Aside from his initial appointment, all appointments were arranged for him.
Spring Steppingwith Dr. Levin If you have a problem with your toenails or even a nail in your foot (ouch!), call today and walk out better for it. Whether you are a professional athlete or a little leaguer, a fashion model or a diabetic with foot pain, you owe it yourself to call New Tampa Foot and Ankle at 813 973-3535. They are located at 26827 Foggy Creek Rd. Wesley Chapel, Fl.
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APRIL | 2009
“Tell our advertisers you saw them here first”
from the publisher This month we’ve decided to take a look at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. This is certainly one non–profit organization which feels no signs of relief during these economic times. As their slogan states, “Help. Hope. Healing.”, it teaches us not only of their mission but their process. The most important word to me….Healing. Their support structure includes a 365 hotline (2-1-1) opening doors and creating possibilities for hundreds of thousands in the Tampa area. What I’ve learned is that this center is not for the “weak-minded”, yet a support structure experienced to bring out the innerstrength. I urge everyone to take a glance at their website, www.crisiscenter.com, and get familiarized with their services and survivor case studies. Who knows? You might be able to save someone you love with a touch of 3 digits (2-1-1).
features 1&3 The Skinny on Smartlipo from Clarity Med Spa (cover story) 2 Advanced Hemorrhoid Solutions: A Much Better Option than Surgery or Suffering 4 An Appointment with Dr. Stephen Levin - The First Step in a Better Walk 11 Get Your Neck Checked! Seemingly Minor Accidents Can Cause Long Term Damage ...........................................................................
sammy
sammy@realhealthandimage.com
from the editor
.......................................................................................................................
in every issue 5 | Publisher’s and Editor’s Note
April is sexual assault awareness month, so to spread the word about this important and growing problem, we covered the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
6 | Youth Rules Choosing Sports Classes
for this month’s nonprofit tribute. The staff at the Crisis Center was lovely 7 | Health Discoveries
and accessible, and any one of them would be a great comfort in time of trauma. The Crisis Center addresses many issues, such as rape, sexual assault and domestic violence, but they also do much more than that. They have helped people who lost jobs and got behind on rent and bills, as well as performing daily home checks on elderly people who have no one else to care for
8&9 | Tribute to Non-Profit (Feature Story) Overcoming Life’s Steepest Obstacles 10 | Ask Her Body Fat & Weight Loss
them. 12 | Everyday Fitness Achieving Fitness on a Budget
If you or someone you care about is suffering from depression, suicidal thoughts, rape or domestic violence, please call the free, 24-hour 2-1-1 hotline. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has saved many lives over the past 30 years, and they know that crisis has no favorites. Don’t be afraid to seek help – yours could be a life they save some day.
14 | To Dine For Casa Tina 15 | Pet Balance Graying Muzzles, Warming Hearts
terra
terra@realhealthandimage.com
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APRIL | 2009
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Eric Smith High School Health Teacher and Athletic Coach eric.smith@sdhc.k12.fl.us
In April, students across the state are choosing their elective classes for the 2009-2010 school year. Many electives are in the physical education department. Students may choose a variety of classes to meet their physical needs such as aerobics, weight training and team sports. Every year students become confused about choosing certain classes. Here are a few tips that will help you find the right class.
First, you must think
of your athletic schedule. If you play a sport, many physical education classes may conflict with your schedule. For instance, when taking weight training in the spring, football players must consider their off-season schedule. Working out during the day may cut your performance in half during conditioning after school. You do not want to over-train your body. It would be beneficial to take a weight training class in the fall as opposed to the spring in this case.
Second, know your likes and dislikes. If you love to play basketball,
do not sign up for a volleyball class. One-semester courses such as volleyball, basketball and soccer last all semester. Coaches must teach students certain skills and tactics in order to succeed in the class. Only one sport will be covered. Taking a team sport class may suit you better. In a team sport class, multiple sports will be covered.
Finally, try to have a positive mindset when signing up for a physical
education course. Remember, this is PHYSICAL education. You are going to be moving around, running, jumping, playing games, being outside and performing a host of other highly active roles. One of the most frustrating things for a physical education coach is a student who does not participate. You must be active when taking a PE class.
Remember, PE is supposed to be fun. Make sure you take a class that will benefit you – and find one that you really enjoy!
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APRIL | 2009
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Men have always been perceived as the providers and protectors of family and home. This innate trait has undoubtedly been embedded into their DNA since the most primitive era. It may also be due to their strong, competitive nature or fear of weakness and vulnerability. Whatever the reason, men have increased their health and fitness awareness in recent years and are becoming more informed about their lifestyle choices in order to reap maximum rewards.
Surviving Domestic Violence tells the stories of 12 women. Each was a victim of domestic violence who escaped from her abuser, reclaimed her dignity, reconstructed her life, and rediscovered peace. Domestic violence doesn’t just happen “out there” somewhere. It happens in our town, in our neighborhood, on our street. It happens to women we see at work, the supermarket, the movie theater, the ballet and the PTA board meeting. Every woman who has left an abusive man — every woman who has yet to leave — will find encouragement and hope in the voices of these women who broke free.
By Betty Alvarodiaz - RHI
That being said, men still avoid healthcare facilities and physicians for medical advice unless it’s absolutely necessary. Luckily, there are sites devoted to not only general health and fitness but also medical advice on a number of topics. The following sites are leaders in providing expert medical advice from physicians on health-related topics. They are sure to keep your growing awareness up-to-date without compromising your manhood.
Best for: Providing a one-stop health shop WebMD - Men’s Health www.men.webmd.com/ What it does: An interactive tool filled with informative pieces to aid in making better health and fitness choices for a prolonged future.
A comprehensive guide for those working through the effects of a traumatic experience. In addition to the clarity with which their material is presented, the authors also effectively convey a sense of empathy throughout the text. A key strength of this book lies in the authors’ experience in working with those who have experienced trauma. The systematic and predictable organization of each chapter allows the reader to become familiar with the techniques used and the progression of work. Both the informative discussion material and the exercises readily lend themselves to a collaborative process between client and therapist. With its concern for the individual and efforts to validate each reader’s experiences, Life After Trauma: A Workbook for Healing is an ideal source of encouragement that extends beyond clienttherapist relationships and is available at all times.
What’s cool about it: WebMD has always been best known for its accessibility to credible health news and information. The men’s health section follows the same premise, providing a centralized resource for men’s health and fitness topics. The first eye-catching piece among many is the scrolling snapshots and short descriptions leaving you wanting to read more. Next to the images, you have quizzes and tools that test your knowledge on a particular subject. The site also contains slideshows and videos for quick tips.
Best est for: Understanding derstanding health risks MedicineNet.com – Men’s Health Center www.medicinenet.com/mens_health/ focus.htm What it does: Addresses men’s health concerns by focusing on eliminating potential risk factors through key lifestyle changes.
What’s cool about it: At first glance, Men’s Health Center provides a list of prevalent health concerns among men including heart disease, cancer, On the left-hand column, Men’s Health obesity, diabetes and stroke. Each topic Guide contains six sections, including Fitness & Exercise, Sex & Intimacy and Lost is further discussed through related the Gut to name a few. By selecting any of subtopics, articles and FAQs. In adthese sections, you’re taken to subsections dition to the health topics, the site has an area that lists common medications with more in-depth topics and articles. and tests. The site also touches on key Under Men’s Conditions, you can select points to healthy living including eatyour age bracket and a list of topics pops up that relates your current needs. The site ing healthy, exercising and managing also contains a list of top 12 topics current stress. Men’s Health Center provides to today’s evolving man. It provides a glos- a clear understanding of health risks in men and solutions to maintain a healthy sary in case your specific concern didn’t make it into the top 12. If you’re interested lifestyle. in what others have to say, there’s a mesDrawbacks: The Men’s Health Center sage board. The site offers men’s news section lacks in information in compariand features along with community views son to other sites. It covers only a hand& insights. ful of health topics and related articles. Also, if you click on any of the site’s Drawbacks: This site is amazing but if main tabs for additional information, it I must provide a drawback I’d say it’s the navigates you away from your current fact that if you click on any of the site’s section. main tabs for additional information, it takes you away from your current section and may be difficult to navigate back to men’s health.
Price: This site is free
Price: This site is free
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APRIL | 2009
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The Crisis Center’s main resource is the 2-1-1 hotline. This is the free line you can call, for yourself or someone you are concerned about, for advice and help. Trained staff and volunteers answer the hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They offer help with basic needs for food, rent, clothing, utilities, senior services, substance abuse issues, depression and suicide, and much more.
Another very important resource at the Crisis Center is the APPLE Trauma Response Center. At APPLE, they treat child and adult victims of sexual abuse, assault, incest and domestic violence, as well as human trafficking. At APPLE, they believe treatment is most effective when they bring in non-offending family members to receive therapy as well.
In a typical week, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay will:
Barbara McCormick, director of APPLE, said, “Courtney is really amazing. She lifts a weight. She can be just sleeping on the floor and if the victim begins to get upset or stressed, she’ll come over and lay her head in their lap.”
•Serve six rape victims •Transport nearly 100 seriously mentally ill and 350 sick or hurt individuals, regardless of their ability to pay •Answer 23 suicide calls and another 2,200 calls from county residents seeking help for whatever problem is overwhelming them •Assure 310 elderly or disabled shut-ins daily that someone really does care that they are alive •Provide emergency financial assistance and counseling to 52 families •Assist 120 sexually abused children and adults to start life anew
Often, the parent or parents who were unaware of the abuse have difficulty accepting it, working through conflicting emotions, or even believing that their child is telling the truth. The parent and child work with separate therapists who can help the parent learn coping skills. Therapists work toward teaching children how to love and trust again. The child therapy program treats children ages three to 18, using games and pet therapy. “Courtney” is a golden retriever who works with victims of all ages.
The Nurse Examiner Program at the Crisis Center performs forensic medical exams on rape victims. Their advanced registered nurse practitioners perform the exam following law enforcement procedures to preserve evidence. They also assist law enforcement and prosecution by testifying during sexual assault trials on behalf of the victims. About 80 percent of the time, a rape victim knows her attacker. This leads to feelings of fear and shame that prevent some women from pressing charges – or even seeking help. APPLE understands that different circumstances may call for a different approach. Some victims do not automatically report rape and sexual assault to law enforcement but are still able to receive services to assist them around the trauma. This practice follows state law. McCormick sees a lot of young women who have been drugged and date raped. “I have heard of bartenders being paid to put things in a girl’s drink. The date rape drug is huge, and any time you add alcohol, a situation becomes a higher risk. Never, ever leave your drink out of your sight.” The most important thing that McCormick and Braughton stressed is that it does not matter what your economic or social circumstances are. Everyone is at risk for sudden, unexpected trauma – even natural disasters – and it is never shameful to seek help.
“Sometimes higher income people don’t know who to call or where to call,” McCormick said. “But they need help too.” David Braughton had this to add: “People too often wait for a full-blown crisis to catch hold of them before seeking help. They wait until they are completely hopeless. I just want to tell people, ‘Don’t wait until you are behind the eight ball.’” The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay always needs aid to allow them to continue supporting all members of the community. For more information, to find out about volunteering, attending an event or donating, visit www.crisiscenter.com. For information on community resources, visit www.211atyourfingertips.org. If you or anyone you know is suffering from a crisis situation, no matter how small, call 2-1-1. Don’t wait to get help. Anyone at the Crisis Center will tell you it is right there for the taking.
Over the past year, the Crisis Center has seen calls skyrocket as the failing economy forces more people out of their houses and jobs and into deep depression. Braughton also sees a correlation between the number of sexual assaults and the recession. “Men typically don’t seek help – and emotions boil over. Our identities are very tied up with our jobs, and when we are no longer able to support our families, it can lead to domestic violence, sexual assault and other crimes. The economy is also a large part of rising suicide rates,” he said. “Our average caller is a 36-year-old woman with kids.”
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APRIL | 2009
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Shannon Thigpen is a nationally certified personal trainer and fitness instructor. She is the co-founder of Salsa & Soul Fitness, which can be found at www.salsaandsoulfitness.com.
Extremely thin women are glamorized in Hollywood and on the runways of Paris and New York. This can easily leave the wrong message in the minds of women and young girls. Women will sometimes pick their high school weight as the weight to which they aspire, just because that is what they once weighed, even though it might not have been a healthy weight. Even if their high school weight was healthy, sometimes women will lose weight and not lose fat. Instead they lose water and muscle, which causes a body to burn calories less efficiently. Then you end up gaining back more weight than you started with. It is helpful to consider indicators like body fat percentages (which is not the same as body mass index, or BMI). Some body fat is essential for existence. It is essential in your diet, particularly unsaturated fats in moderation. Fat regulates body temperature. It helps protect vital tissues and organs. It is also the main form of the body’s energy storage.
Women need 10 to 12 percent body fat just to survive. This accounts for hips, breasts and reproductive organs. Men can survive with much less fat. Many women will not have a menstrual cycle when body fat is below 14 percent. Interrupting the menstrual cycle can lead to difficulty conceiving later in life. Most female athletes have 14 to 20 percent body fat. Most physically fit women have 21 to 24 percent. Acceptable body fat percentages range from 25 to 30 percent. Over 32 percent body fat is considered obese. Knowing your body fat percentages can help you determine your weight loss goals. If you weigh 200 pounds with 40 percent body fat, set a goal to lose 70 lbs. Initial body fat: 200lbs X .40 = 80 lbs body fat. Lean body mass: 200 lbs total – 80 lbs fat = 120 lbs of lean body mass (bones, organs, all else). Weight loss Goal: 200 lbs – 70 lbs = 130. From the example, you can see that losing 70 pounds is unhealthy for this individual and unrealistic. If she loses 70 pounds she would only be 10 pounds over lean body mass which is 8% body fat. That is dangerously low for a woman. A better goal for this woman may be to reduce her body fat from 40% to 20%. In this case, 200 lbs X .20 = 40 lbs body fat. 120 lbs lean body mass + 40 lbs = 160 lbs goal weight.
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APRIL | 2009
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ADVERTISEMENT
Please Direct Any Questions or Comments to Dr. Robert Lupo Clinic Director Physical Medicine Center 14522 University Point Place, Tampa (813) 978-0020 www.mybackinplace.com
D
id it seem like a minor accident at the time? The full effect of auto-related trauma might not be apparent for weeks -- sometimes even months -- after the accident first occurred.
Consider that the human head weighs between eight and 12 pounds and is attached to the most flexible and fragile part of the human body: the neck. The neck is made up of seven vertebrae with approximately 32 different joint articulations. If these joints are stretched beyond their normal limits, they become damaged. Picture an elastic cord stretched too far; it might not bounce back to its normal shape and size. In a car accident, thousands of pounds of force (actual G-forces) are exerted upon the occupants. The head, heavy compared to the neck, is thrown around like a ball on a tether. The muscles and ligaments can tear, nerves can be damaged by traction, and all the surrounding soft tissues are damaged by the force. Bleeding can also occur deep under the skin. When these soft tissues are damaged, the healing process begins within 24 hours. This process almost inevitably results in a lower quality grade of tissue replacing the original tissue. This low-grade tissue is brittle, weak and less flexible than the healthy tissue that was originally there.
““For “F For o questions que q uest stio sti ions ns about abo bout ut advertising, adv dverrtitiisi sing, si ng, call ng callll 813-872-4448” ca 813 13-8 87 72 2--4 44 44 48” 8
Proper care of these injuries is crucial just after they occur. Patients should take care to restore joint alignment with chiropractic treatment. Also, a patient must work to return as much of the original normal tissue strength and flexibility as possible through a combination of rehabilitation and medical physiotherapeutics such as ultrasound, interferential laser therapy and disc decompression along with joint mobilization. Proper and immediate care of these injuries can help you prevent years of pain and suffering. If you are involved in an accident, the worst thing to do is wait, thinking “maybe it will go away.” Certainly pain medication will help you with the pain, but it will not restore your damaged joints to normal. The best plan of action is to get an evaluation, and have your spine checked by a professional who specializes in soft tissue injuries, spinal alignment and spinal biomechanics. Florida is a no-fault state and your auto insurance covers your care in the event you are injured in an auto accident. This gives Floridians the best opportunity to get the care they need. Our hope is that you remain safe, but if you are involved in an accident, you must be prepared.
APRIL A AP PR RIIL | 2 20 2009 009
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Lose up to 15 pounds in 6 weeks by taking the Steel Physique Body Challenge with CarolAnn. Contact her at CarolAnn@Steel-Physique.com for more information. Known as the trainers’ trainer, CarolAnn, has become one of the country’s leading fitness educators. Combining a Master’s degree in Exercise Science with fitness certifications/memberships such as ACSM, ACE, AFAA, LMI and AEA, she has been actively involved in the fitness industry for 19 years. While on her downtime from touring as a national fitness presenter, she teaches group fitness and personal trains in the North Tampa area. She is the creator and star of The Steel Physique System DVD now available at www.steelphysique.com. For more information regarding personal training and group fitness classes by CarolAnn, contact her at carolann@steel-physique.com or visit www.StudioGroupX.com.
By: CarolAnn, MS, CPT, “MissFit”
D
uring difficult financial times, one of the first things to go is the
Work Out at Home: Once you make your one-time
gym membership. The good news is there are alternatives out-
equipment purchase, there are inexpensive or even free ways to work out at home. If you have cable, there are now free exercise “video on demand” channels that offer free workout routines. Also FitTV offers 24/7 workouts on the hour. Your library is a great free source for exercise DVDs. House work and yard work counts as exercising if you REALLY elevate your heart rate.
side a gym to keep in shape. Invest in Small Prop Equipment: Make a one-time purchase of
multi-use equipment that will keep your workouts going for years. Equipment such as the exercise ball, step, exercise bands/tubing, dumbbells, mat, jump rope and a
Move it to the Outdoors: Going outside is free!
barbell set have multiple uses and work all the muscles of the body. One will never
Lace up those shoes and go for a walk or a jog around your neighborhood. Visit local parks and use the trails. Going to different parks and walking or jogging the different trails can become a hobby as well as your new fitness routine. Some parks even have fitness stations for added strength benefits. Take your mat with you to the park and finish up your cardio session with some great yoga stretches.
get bored, and the workout routines are endless.
Personal Training on a Shoestring: If you really need that motivation and support from a professional personal trainer, there are clever ways to get that one-on-one attention. Online personal training is an inexpensive way to get fitness tips, workout routines, motivation, and progress tracking. Ensure that the personal training website you are using is legit and the trainers are nationally certified. Partner up with a buddy when using a personal trainer. While a single session can cost around $50-$100 per hour, the expense can drop to almost half when sharing a personal trainer with a buddy. Sharing your session with a friend or family member can save you money and give you extra motivation for your workouts. The last thing that should go during financial crunch time is your exercise routine. Your health is the most important investment you can make. If you stop your workout routine due to financial hardship, it could cost you way more down the road.
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APRIL | 2009
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APRIL | 2009
PAGE 13
I have been in the back scenes of the restaurant industry for over 12 years. I recently shed thirty pounds and realized I have to be more conscious of what I eat, which is difficult when my world revolve around dining out, be it socially or my career. So I am out to find a low-cal, low-carb alternative in a society that thrives on butter and bread when dining out. Ask me anything at robyn@realhealthandimage.com.
In honor of upcoming Cinco de Mayo, and as an ode to life in a corona commercial, this month I chose to review Casa Tina’s Mexican restaurant. They describe themselves as fresh, healthy, authentic Mexican. Although the very idea sounds ludicrous, Javier and Tina do their absolute best. Mexican food is traditionally associated with carb-laden rice dishes and rich sauces -- and nearly every plate involves flour tortillas in one form or another. Using only fresh ingredients and vegan recipes, Casa Tina’s does its best to offer less guilty options. Located on main street in delightful Dunedin, the restaurant has huge sliders in the store front that, when opened, give the entire store a patio feel. (Most dining choices in Mexico are not air conditioned, so windows and doors remain open to keep the area as cool as possible.) In that respect, Casa Tina’s is very authentic! Arty Dunedin mismatched with Mexican accessories gives the impression they borrowed the corporate decorator from the House of Blues. Bright vibrant colors paint walls cluttered with glass artwork, mismatched crosses and skeleton dolls. Beside a small bar, a large mural of a skeleton mariachi quartet continues the Dia De Los Muertos theme. Although all your traditional guilty favorites are on the menu, you will find an adequate variety of healthier options. Fresh tomato salsa and tortilla chips are served complimentary upon seating. The drink menu had many fun tropical faves including mojitos, sangria, and beer served ala “margarita.” Tilapia ceviche or the chayote rellenos are lighter options as a starter. There are also a couple of options of grilled tilapia entrees prepared with fresh ingredients such as cilantro, jalapeños, and garlic. I splurged on the chili rellenos, and was very impressed. The poblano was grilled as opposed to breaded and had the perfect amount of heat. Though not getting any points for low-cal, I did enjoy a tasty low carb snack.
Casa Tina’s has atmosphere, fun drinks, wonderful food, and nightly entertainment. While priced more comparably to Euros than pesos, the freshness and vibrancy of the experience is well worth it. We all want to live in a corona commercial as often as possible.
We also tried the mole poblano, a semi-sweet chocolate sauce on shredded chicken enchiladas. chiladas. A little sweeter than the mole sauce I have often found in Mexico, but still rich and delicious.
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APRIL | 2009
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Jennifer, Cristan and Abe Fadal Wag | 304 E. Davis Blvd. | Davis Islands, Fl www.wagoftampa.com | 813-258-9181
Over the past two months, my entire household hit the big 35…my husband, our dog Abe and myself!
I still can’t believe I
Signs of aging can include: •
Hearing loss
am this old and dealing with everything that comes
•
graying around the muzzle
•
decreased appetite
with it including dying my grays and discussing with
•
bluish or cloudy look to the eyes
•
hair loss
•
decreased energy level
•
an increase in water intake
friends the pros and cons of Botox, Restylane and the like (none of us have gone under the needle yet I might add)!
But I certainly can’t believe our cuddly brown guy is the same age. You know the old math calculation that one human year equals seven dog years. Hence, Abe is a 35-year-old adult dog. Other than a few more grays on his muzzle, he is in great shape and is the same laid-back guy who can chase a ball faster than a speeding bullet!
Abe’s birthday did get me to think about caring for him as he moves gracefully into old age. Note: Small breeds and large breeds age at different rates. A seven-year-old Great Dane is definitely considered a senior dog whereas a seven-year-old Maltese is hardly that. Smaller breeds are considered adult dogs for a few more years, since they typically have a longer life span. Discuss your dog’s age with your vet -- especially if you begin to notice signs of aging. A good rule of thumb is to bring this discussion to the forefront when your dog is approaching their seventh year.
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Small lifestyle changes can make your senior pooch more comfortable. Senior dogs really like their zzz’s, so a clean comfortable bed is a must. There are many varieties of orthopedic beds out there that will take pressure off of sore muscles, joints and ligaments.
A slight shift in dog food may be helpful as well. If your dog has become less active, try a senior formula that offers a bit less fat and protein but more glucosamine. The latter serves as an anti-inflammatory and can promote joint health and manage arthritis pain.
Other recommendations are to always have fresh water for your senior, manage your expectations of what they can do physically, and make sure they don’t over-exert. Senior dogs have a lot of love to give and are more than happy to have you cuddle up with them for a nap!
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