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A PublicAtion of the times

7e Fit Spa client MELISSA BLUETT of St. John demonstrates the Torc Plus electronic muscle stimulation workout.

renewal OPTIONS & ALTERNATIVES

ALSO

Winter calorie burn Health benefits of beer Questions for an acupuncturist JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

NWI.COM/GETHEALTHY

1 | PRODUCT

Methodist is now an Accredited Chest Pain Center

...serving the

713,792 beating hearts in Northwest Indiana.

When it comes to cardiac care, all hospitals are not the same. When minutes matter most, a hospital with an accredited Chest Pain Center can be the difference between life and death.

Both Methodist Hospitals campuses – Northlake and Southlake – are now accredited Chest Pain Centers.

That means you have access to faster assessment and treatment, as well as better odds of surviving a heart attack. In short, you can be assured that you’re getting the best, most advanced care for what could be a heart attack at Methodist Hospitals.

Leading the Way to Better Health

That’s what leading the way to better health is all about.

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january/february 2013

17

NeW YeAr, FreSh STArT

Find out how to cleanse your body and mind and get a jump start on your New Years’ health resolutions.

NURSES SELECT DOCTOR FOR AWARD

Dr. Frederick R. Klepsch is the 2012 recipient of Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Crown Point’s St. Raphael Award, which, since 2005, has recognized physicians who have improved patient care through the nurse-doctor relationship.

Klepsch, an orthopedic surgeon who has been with the hospital for all of his 32 years in the profession, said he felt privileged when he learned of the honor, which is named for Raphael, an archangel, patron saint of physicians and nurses.

The award is presented by the hospital’s Performance Improvement Council-Shared Decision Making.

In Klepsch’s award notification letter, Susan Jostes, chairwoman of the performance council, said nurses believe he exhibits a good rapport with them, provides education, serves as a resource, exhibits a team approach to patient care, shows respect for the nursing profession, supports nursing staff with patients, their families and the administration, and he portrays characteristics of a positive role model for physicians.

HOSPITAL EARNS DISTINCTION

GLUTEN-FREE CRACKER LINE AVAILABLE AT WAL-MART Crunchmaster, which sells gluten-free crackers, announced that its new line of kid-friendly snack crisps are now available at Wal-mart stores and coming soon to supermarkets nationwide. Its new flavors include cheddar cheezy crisps, cinnamon & sugar grammy crisps and sea salt multi-grain crisps. The crisps are a gluten-free alternative to regular cheese snacks and graham crackers, made with a blend of California brown rice, whole corn, whole sorghum and other gluten free grains. Crunchmaster Crisps are peanut free and certified gluten free by the Gluten Free Certification Organization. A package of crackers costs $2.58.

8 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

the body shop

Paul Zlamal’s wife Nancy saved his life by insisting on a cardiac screening at Porter Regional Hospital.

Checkup reveals

Cardiac Arrest

P

aul Zlamal, for the most part, is the picture of good health.

The 52-year-old is active, running his own small construction business and enjoying hobbies during his free time—building race cars, trap shooting and hunting.

He knew something was wrong earlier this year, when he began feeling a little bit of discomfort in his chest.

It wasn’t a crushing feeling that many feel when having a heart attack, he said. Instead, it felt more like indigestion.

Zlamal’s wife, Nancy, wasn’t buying it. She convinced her husband to see a doctor in March, which after several tests eventually led him to a cardiac screening at Porter Regional Hospital in Valparaiso.

Hospital staff discovered his minor chest discomforts were instead a major problem. Zlamal’s life was in serious jeopardy, and he would need triple bypass surgery.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “I was functioning relatively well with the exception of having some mild chest pains and discomfort.”

According to the American Heart Association, many of the 79 million Americans like Zlamal who suffer from serious heart disease don’t even

know they have it.

In Zlamal’s situation, doctors discovered two of the arteries in his heart were 100 percent blocked and one 94 percent blocked.

“When it’s that bad, it’s called a widow maker,” Zlamal says.

Doctors told him had he not come in for help, he wouldn’t have lived much longer, Zlamal explains.

“The doctor kept saying I wouldn’t have made it.”

Three days after his cardiac screening, Zlamal underwent triple bypass surgery. The surgery occurred on a Monday and lasted about six hours.

By Friday, Zlamal was home.

Doctors credited his quick recovery to his overall good health, but also advised him on ways he could prevent this from happening again. Although genetics may have played a role, smoking and diet likely contributed to the blockages as well, Zlamal says.

Not only did he quit smoking two days before surgery, he’s also increased his cardiovascular exercise and changed some of his eating habits – something Zlamal says many are guilty of not doing.

“It just goes to show it could happen to anybody,” he says. “It’s a good lesson to everyone.”

Since March, Zlamal says he and his wife have recommended to at least two dozen friends and family members to take advantage of the cardiac screenings Porter Regional Hospital offers.

Porter Regional Hospital offers a free heart risk

on your mind

ColdWeather

assessment that helps residents discover whether they may be suffering from heart disease.

The assessment is available two ways: online at PorterHealth.com/HeartAware or in person with a screener. Those interested in taking the assessment in person should call 1-800-453-2330 to schedule a screening.

Zlamal advises residents not to wait.

“We all take life for granted,” he says. “We think we are Superman.”

The hospital’s Center for Cardiovascular Medicine, considered a “heart hospital within a hospital,” provides advanced cardiovascular treatment in one location – housing 13 private cardiac rooms, four cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology rooms, and two future cardiac catheterization rooms.

The center was designed to provide the region’s growing population with one location where they are evaluated, consulted and treated through medical and surgical management, explains Karen Keltner, manager of marketing and communications at Porter Regional Hospital.

Zlamal says many think they have to travel outside of the region to get quality cardiac care, but the medical staff and tests that saved his life are close to home.

“I can’t say enough about my cardiologist and his team at Porter Regional Hospital, or my entire visit, which was fantastic,” he says. —Christine Bryant

MEDITaTION

RELaxES THE MIND, HELPS THE BODy

FITNESS

Dr. CR Smith, D.O., FACC, FACCP

HOW TO STAY ACTIVE IN THE WINTER

T

he weather outside may have you running to hide under the covers, but exercising in the winter is necessary for good health. You can even have fun while doing it.

Southlake Branch YMCA Group Fitness Coordinator Amy Lucka and Wellness Coordinator Cheryl Louttit agree that staying active in the winter not only helps you stay fit, but it also improves overall wellness.

“With the holidays coming, it’s important to stay active in order to keep your weight down and burn off some of those extra calories we all seem to consume this time of year,” says Lucka. Exercising in the winter keeps muscles limber in case of falls and helps people feel better about themselves overall, adds Louttit.

Need help getting motivated? Louttit and Lucka recommend working out with a friend, planning fun activities with the family, joining a group fitness class, such as Zumba, group cycling or boot camp, or finding a personal trainer.

“Personal trainers and fitness instructors work very hard to keep workouts and routines exciting and motivating for their clients and members,” says Lucka.

But you don’t have to stay indoors to get a good workout. Why not take advantage of the beautiful snowy landscape, have some fun and burn calories at the same time?

Favorite winter pastimes like ice skating and sledding burn 294 calories every half an hour.

If you’re looking for a harder workout, strap on some skis. Opt for cross-country skiing at a 4 to 4.9 mph pace, which burns a whopping 336 calories in 30 minutes, compared to downhill skiing at a moderate pace, which expends 252 in the same amount of time. Snow shoeing for 30 minutes, just like cross-country skiing, burns 336 calories, as does a rousing game of ice hockey.

Living in the upper Midwest means you probably don’t need to be reminded that winter time isn’t all fun and games, but you can work up a serious sweat completing outside chores. Shoveling snow by hand or chopping wood for 30 minutes both burn 252 calories, while using a snowblower torches 189 calories every half an hour. —Ashley Boyer

219.836.9376 CardioSpecialists Group, Ltd

801 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 203, Munster, IN

DOS AND DON’TS OF WINTER FITNESS

after hours number: 219-836-9390

Louttit and Lucka shared these tips for exercising outdoors in colder temperatures: • DO dress appropriately.

Wear layers. “The first layer should be made of some sort of wicking material,” recommends Louttit, “and hats and gloves are extremely important as well.”

• DO limit outdoor activities in extremely low temps.

• DON’T exercise in below zero temperatures.

Dr. Dinesh Kalra, M.D., FACC

Once known as a spiritual discipline practiced in Eastern cultures, meditation has now found itself in the mainstream, with many touting its health benefits.

“Meditation is becoming much more widely accepted,” says Di Billick, who teaches meditation classes at East Wind Studios in Chesterton.

“People seem to be more interested in alternative ways to deal with stress and health issues, and meditating regularly can help these issues.”

While meditation may seem time-consuming or complicated, Billick says it’s anything but.

Meditating just 15 minutes a day can dramatically drop stress levels, she says.

“Blood pressure levels can decrease once stress is lowered and anxiety can disappear completely, which also may help reduce anxiety-related disorders,” she says.

Beginners often face the biggest challenge of learning how to relax and letting go of self-judgment.

Classes like Billick’s offer beginners a place to leave their worries and hectic lives at the door.

Here are some tips on how to get started in practicing meditation.

• Find at least 15 minutes of free time and go to a calm and quiet place. Remove any distractions, such as your phone and computer.

• Get comfortable. The National Institutes of Health says meditation can be done in any position, including sitting, lying down or even walking.

• Begin to focus. Let your mind and body settle direct your thoughts to something, whether it’s your breathing, an image or a word.

• Stay focused. It’s inevitable that your mind will wander. Bring it back to the item you picked to focus on, and don’t get frustrated if keeping your mind focused on that one item is difficult.

• Close out your meditation. Slowly allow your thoughts to return to your day, and repeat as needed.

—Christine Bryant

Contact us today: 219-286-0233 inspire@360refresh.com www.360refresh.com/duneland

E

ating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. Local businesses make it easier to choose better eating habits, and interest in their life changing programs continues to grow.

Seattle Sutton Healthy Eating, which provides 21 freshly-prepared (prepackaged) meals each week, takes the guesswork out of how to eat better and costs less than eating out every day.

Toni Smith, of the Highland Seattle Sutton location, says the diet is heart healthy, low in cholesterol, low in fat and sodium restricted.

“It’s not just for losing weight,” Smith explains. It also makes meal planning easier for those with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.

Clients have a lot of variety with a menu that changes every five weeks to avoid repetition. Sample entrees include fluffy egg noodles with meatballs, baked fish almondine and robust potato skins.

The diet is also easy to use for those with busy schedules.

Salads, fruits and vegetables are included so clients only need to add beverages to complete their meal. The system offers either a 1,200- or 2,000-calorie-per day plan. The 1,200-calorie plan is $129 a week and the 2,000–calorie plan is $149 per week.

Delivery is also available at an additional charge.

“We’ve been in business over 25 years,” Smith says.

Helping clients eat healthy is nothing new to Cheryl Dornberg, owner of Mrs. Dornberg’s Culinary Experience in Highland. Since starting her business in 1996, she has seen increasing demand for healthy, easy and affordable meals.

Her Healthy Living Eating plan helps those who are too busy to cook during the week but who still want homemade food. Clients order from a weekly menu of meals, baked goods and more and can adjust the amount of food to what they need that week.

“It’s what they would make if they had the time,” Dornberg

Mrs. Dornberg’s Culinary Experience in Highland, teaches classes on making healthy foods.

*Calories burnt were calculated for a person weighing 185 lbs using WebMD’s Fitness and Exercise calculator, which can be found at webmd.com.

holiday health tips

food & fitness

Healthy eating for people on the go says. She started her business to fill a void in the area.

“Since I cook in a certain way and in a healthy way, it was hard for me and my husband to go out to eat because it wasn’t the same caliber we were used to.”

Toni The preplanned meals Smith, of Seattle are so popular that Dornberg Sutton, shows currently cannot accept any new healthy clients, but those who are interested can meals. add their names to a waiting list. In response to her clients’ needs, Dornberg started teaching cooking classes.

“I can only service so many people a week with the (Healthy Living Eating plan.) I just saw there was a need for people to understand that healthy meals are not difficult. They don’t take a lot of time. You just have to know some tips and tricks to gain confidence in the kitchen.”

Classes are Wednesday through Saturday and the schedule changes monthly. Demonstration classes feature in-depth discussions on techniques and ingredients. She also offers hands-on classes and what she calls make & take classes, where students prepare items to be eaten later. In December, for example, she will offer a Christmas cookie class where participants can bake a variety of cookies for their upcoming holiday parties.

Other classes range in topic from basic knife skills to Beef 101 to do-it-yourself Mediterranean dinner party. —Jennifer Pallay RTESY OF DA S COU VID OTO F. D PH O

R

G ER NB

Porter Regional Hospital has been named a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement by Blue Cross Blue Shield.

The award is given to medical facilities that demonstrate expertise in delivering quality healthcare. This designation is based on rigorous, evidence-based selection criteria established in collaboration with expert physicians’ and medical organizations’ recommendations.

The goal is to help consumers find quality specialty care on a consistent basis, while enabling and encouraging health professionals to improve the overall quality and delivery of healthcare nationwide.

To date, Blue Cross Blue Shield has designated approximately 540 facilities nationwide as Blue Distinction Centers for Knee and Hip Replacement.

WRISTBAND MONITORS SLEEP, EATS, MOVEMENT UP, by Jawbone, is a wristband that tracks your life, including sleep, movement and food intake. The band syncs with an app that displays your data and lets you add information—such as meals and moods— and provides insight to help you move forward. The wristbands, which contain the technology, are wrapped in a medical-grade, hypoallergenic rubber and are available in small, medium and large, in onyx, mint green, light gray, blue, navy, red, orange and hunter green. Features include a power nap setting that will wake you up 26.5 minutes into a nap PHOTOS PROVIDED and an alert that sounds when you’ve been idle for too long. Wristbands are $129.99 and can be purchased online at www.jawbone.com/up.

Minor

26 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

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Drink plenty of water every day. It keeps you full, aids digestion and improves overall health.

Sleep is important, especially during high stress times like the holiday season.

Eat a small, healthy snack before attending holiday events.Yogurt, fruit or vegetables are ideal.

If indulging in an alcoholic beverage, choose one glass of wine.

Mixed drinks contains more empty calories.

If you receive unhealthy food as a gift, bring it to work and share with co-workers.

When traveling, bring healthy snacks to avoid the common unhealthy options.

The key to a healthy lifestyle, even during the holidays, is to understand that it is a lifestyle choice and must be maintained on a daily basis.

Source: seattlesutton.com

for more information SEATTLE SUTTON For more information or to set up a meal plan, visit seattlesutton.com or call (219) 972-3438.

The Highland location, 9222 Indianapolis Blvd., Suite D, is also open during meal distribution hours, 3 to 7 p.m.

Mondays and Thursdays.

MRS. DORNBERG’S CULINARY EXPERIENCE To join a healthy “make & take” class, call (219) 922-4534.

Schedules are available at mrsdornbergs.com.

12 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

senior scope

ask the expert

DIABETES’

DR. NANCY TRIMBOLI

LINK TO

ALZHEIMER’S AND HOW TO AVOID IT Drop the Big Mac, don’t order the extra fries and stay away from super-sized and super-sugared sodas. As diet busting and insidious as they are, there may be an even worse evil here. Currently, some researchers are hypothesizing that our lifestyles of saturated fats, too many sweets and overlarge portions of food may be one of the reasons why we’re seeing an explosion of Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s disease is an increasing threat to our health. Currently the 6th leading cause of death in this country, it is a progressive degenerative disease resulting in the loss of memory, thinking and language skills as well as behavioral changes.

Call it Type 3 brain diabetes. That’s the term coined by Dr. Suzanne DeLaMonte, a Brown Medical School neuropathologist who autopsied the brains of Alzheimer’s patients and discovered they showed signs of insulin resistance—an early indicator of diabetes.

This discovery, supported by further research, led to the theory that what we eat, which is impacting the exponential increase of Type 2 diabetes epidemic, may also playing a role in the increasing rate of Alzheimer’s—resulting in a third form of diabetes.

“Insulin disappears early and dramatically in Alzheimer’s disease. In the most advanced stage of Alzheimer’s, insulin receptors were nearly 80 percent lower than in a normal brain,” DeLaMonte says in the December 15, 2005 issue of the National Review of Medicine.

“There’s a link,” agrees Dr. Mark Simaga, neurologist and president of the medical staff at

St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart noting both that patients with Alzheimer’s have a brain insulin resistance and those with diabetes are much more likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

“Cells in the blood vessels in the brain are insulin dependent, so their metabolism and other functions could be altered by diabetes which could potentially alter blood flow to the brain,” says Michael S. LaPointe Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Director Pre-Health Professions at Indiana University Northwest. “Also metabolites from adipose cells or other cells, or other hormonal changes secondary to diabetes could alter brain function and potentially lead to Alzheimer’s disease.”

According to Dr. Marvin Zelkowitz, a boardcertified neurologist on staff at Ingalls Memorial Hospital, high sugar and fat are detrimental for good brain functioning.

“Rats who get fed high fat diets lose their memory more quickly,” says Zelkowitz. “High fat also means less learning. Fats are also a challenging correlativity in that your pancreas has to work all the time, putting a lot of stress on it. High sugar content in diets means that the pancreas has to put out more insulin, another stressor on the pancreas.”

The stress impairs the body’s ability to move sugar through the metabolism in the appropriate way causing brain insulin resistance (BIR) which then impairs neuron receptors. BIR is an early and common feature of Alzheimer’s.

At this point, says Dr. Tim Ames, Medical Director

TONY V. MARTIN, THE TIMES

SHORT, ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSHES HIT THE SHELVES Panasonic has unveiled a series of battery-operated compact toothbrushes, an extension of its line of compact beauty products. The Panasonic EW-DS90’s compact head design offers three types of bristles. Triple-edged bristles easily clean areas between the teeth, flat bristles gently polish the surface of teeth and extra-fine bristles gently clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth and gums. The compact design allows it to fit in a purse, makeup bag or pocket. A cap covers the on/off switch so a user doesn’t have to worry about the toothbrush accidentally turning on and draining its battery.

Toothbrushes are available in black, pink and silver and cost $39.99.

TONY V. MARTIN, THE TIMES

HEALTHY PRODUCTS

ES TIM HE ,T

survivor spotlight

By Vanessa Renderman

FITNESS FRIDAYS CONTINUE

Indiana University Health La Porte Hospital, the City of LaPorte and LaPorte County Family YMCA again have partnered to provide Fitness Fridays during the cold months.

People of all ages are invited to join Fitness Fridays on January 4 at the La Porte County Family YMCA, 901 Michigan Avenue in La Porte; January 18 at the La Porte Civic Auditorium, 1001 Ridge Street in La Porte; and February 22 at IU Health La Porte Wellness Services at The Crossing, 1201 Washington Street in La Porte.

All fitness events begin at 5:15 pm, and participants are encouraged to arrive early to register. There is no cost to participate, and all members of the public are welcome to attend to reach their fitness goals or simply participate in activities in an inviting atmosphere. Participants are required to wear gym shoes.

TON YV .M AR TIN

what’s new Local Health News

Dr. Mark Simaga shows a brain scan to a patient at St. Mary’s Hospital in Hobart.

Discusses the myths and benefits of Chiropractic care

TONY V. MARTIN, THE TIMES

of Healthlinc, the Valparaiso Federally Qualified Community Health Center, Whether Type 3 brain diabetes is still a hypothesis.

“But it fits in with the narrative we have going that if we all eat healthy and exercise, we’ll be healthier,” says Ames noting that diabetes causes damage to small blood vessels which are a cause of multi-infarct dementia (MID)—a condition similar to Alzheimer’s in terms of memory loss. “Physical exercise and mental stimulation are important. The more rest you give your brain, the worse it does. Research also shows that it’s important to avoid social isolation. The baby boomers have to get out in front of this because Alzheimer’s is going to be a huge problem.”

Indeed, according to a presentation by Simaga at St. Mary’s Medical Center Alzheimer’s Symposium currently every 68 seconds someone develops the disease. By mid-century, this will likely be every 33 seconds.

“The lower our blood sugar levels, the longer we live,” says Zelkowitz. “Doing crossword puzzles doesn’t probably help because you’re recalling what you already know. It’s the new experiences which keep the brain active. It’s like a rat running through a maze—you’re learning new things. Crossword puzzles are okay if you’re sitting there with a dictionary.”

The best exercise we have for the brain is human interaction, says Simaga. “It’s staying active, having friends—doing everything that promotes vascular health.” —Jane Ammeson

30 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

Chiropractic can provide helpful treatments for many medical ailments, from ear infections to headaches to back problems.

Dr. Nancy Trimboli of Trimboli Chiropractic shares some insights she has learned since opening her own clinic in Munster in 1993.

Q: What are the most common reasons people look to the chiropractic profession for pain relief as opposed to their physician, physical therapist, etc? I believe people are looking for a better way. Most people understand that the medication does not fix the underlying cause, plus that there is short term and, more dangerous, long term side effects. Surgery is expensive, daunting, with no guarantee of success.

If you can fix your problem without drugs, why wouldn’t you? A healthier nation means we free ourselves from unnecessary drugs.

Q: What are some misconceptions about the chiropractic industry? The medical profession has become much more accepting of alternative care. Weekly, we make referrals to medical doctors and receive referrals from medical doctors. Many people have the misconception that Chiropractic is only wrenching and twisting. This is not true.

Some techniques use about as much pressure as you would use to ring a door bell. When you are adjusted in my office there is no popping or twisting type adjustments unless you request that

technique. Many people, after their first adjustment with us, say something to the effect of, “That was it?

That was easy!”

Q: What are some ways chiropractic procedures can help the everyday person feel better? Chiropractic uses the power of your body’s own healing potential. Chiropractic improves sleep patterns, strengthens the immune system, and levels moods. You will be more flexible and agile in your daily life. Children perform better at school and in sports with better focus and better coordination. Families notice that their house resists the viruses and colds that plague other families.

Q: Can you explain how getting your infant or toddler adjusted can help reduce the number of ear infections they get? If a misalignment of the upper neck exists, the nerves to the head, neck, eyes, ears, sinuses, jaw and face will be affected. By doing a specific spinal adjustment, we restore the proper nerve impulse.

Only then can the body make positive changes

for the better. Also, remember that the overuse of antibiotics is to blame for an increasing number of untreatable infections. The surgery to implant tubes often needs to be repeated.

Q: Since you opened your business, what are some of the changes you have noticed about your clientele? When I first started practice in Munster in 1993, some people could not pronounce the word, “Chiropractic.” It is exciting for me to see the interest in not only Chiropractic, but also massage therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional supplements. As our health insurance world evolves, more and more of our patients come to us knowing that they get more out of their health care dollar at our office. For less than the cost of a prescription, you can get the adjustment to likely help your primary problem and also improve your sleep, mood and immune system.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

For more information about Dr. Trimboli’s practice, visit trimbolichiro.org.

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what’s new

survivor spotlight

body shop

on your mind

food & fitness

senior scope

ask the expert

Activitymonitoring wristbands, and gluten free crackers offer new options for the healthconscious

Cardiac arrest can manifest in uncommon ways

Winter brings new opportunities for calorie burning

Meditation can reduce stress and anxiety disorders

Local businesses offer healthy meals for people on the go

Studies show diabetes could be linked to Alzheimer’s disease

Dr. Nancy Trimboli on the benefits of Chiropractic care

4 letter from the editor 2 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

|

6 health care advisory council

Providing quality care, compassion

Dr. Navin Kumar gastroenterology/internal medicine specialist

By Rob Earnshaw

DR. NAVIN KUMAR grew up loving science while having a soft spot for community service. Becoming a physician incorporated those traits.

Kumar, a gastroenterology/internal medicine specialist, was recently awarded a St. Luke award, given annually on behalf of nurses from the Dyer and Hammond campuses of Franciscan St. Margaret Health. St. Luke is the patron saint of physicians. The award honors excellence in service to patients and staff.

Kumar said he was humbled and grateful to receive the honor. He credits his support staff for “allowing me to do what I do.”

What Kumar does is live by his own motto: Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.

Kumar was born in Hyderabad, India, and raised by an aunt, uncle and grandmother until the age of 4 while his parents were training in medicine in New York. He was then raised in Wisconsin, Southern Illinois and Chicagoland.

“My upbringing through rural, underserved areas and the urban, big city has shaped me in many ways,” Kumar says.

Kumar is a partner with Dr. Harsh Dalal, at Digestive Disease Centers, which has multiple locations in Northwest Indiana.

Kumar, in addition to St. Margaret, also services Community Hospital in Munster and Methodists Hospitals in Gary and Merrillville. He chose his specialty in part because of the “hands on” use of innovative technology in both the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. He also enjoys educating people on current gastroenterology/internal medicine perspectives.

Kumar’s interest lies in gastrointestinal malignancies and cancer prevention and screening. “Most people have been around someone in their lives with cancer and colon cancer specifically,” Kumar says. “Presently, less than 50 percent of appropriate patients (average risk starts age 50) have been screened. The major factors leading to this are misinformation or lack thereof, fear and the belief it’s painful.”

Kumar says his mission is to provide the highest quality of care for all his patients and educating and allowing them to gain

insight into their individual problems. “The best compliment is when patients refer their friends and other family members to my staff and me to take care of their illnesses,” he says.

Angie Poynter, a charge nurse who has worked with Kumar, said he is patient and easy to work with. “His skills are top–notch and he’s respected by all the GI staff,” she says.

Fellow GI nurse Elizabeth Klotz says Kumar is professional and a great mentor to his staff. “He’s compassionate and treats all patients with care and respect.”

Diane Scott, Digestive Disease Centers practice manager,

says Kumar is an excellent, talented, dedicated compassionate physician who always places emphasis on patients comfort, privacy and health concerns. “He is highly respected by his peers. His composed manner compliments Digestive Disease Centers. I am proud to be a member of his staff.”

Jason Baker, business manager for Digestive Disease Centers, says Kumar has been a great asset to the company.

“He has quickly gained the respect of his peers as evident by his recent honor of being awarded the St. Luke award for the Franciscan St. Margaret Hospitals,” he says. “He cares for his staff and his patients and it shows everyday in his strong work ethic and dedication to his profession. He’s trustworthy, compassionate, and I often hear praises of his great bedside manner and caring nature from his patients. Overall, he is a great person and someone I truly enjoy working with.”

Susanne Baker, Digestive Disease Centers billing and coding manager, says Kumar is a “very thorough doctor.”

“He has great bedside manner, puts patient care first and communicates well with their family,” she says.

Kumar’s advice to youths seeking a career as a physician includes “doing it for the right reasons,” which means having a love of science, making relationships with people and being interested in their health. “It’s a very arduous and long path,” he says. “You shouldn’t be going into if for financial reasons or for status. As long as you put in the hard work and have a good group of people supporting you, it’s definitely doable for anybody.”

Kumar and his parents aren’t the only physicians in the family. His sister is in medicine training at the University of Chicago. Kumar’s wife, Divya, also is there as a nephrology fellow. “She is a beautiful person inside and out and a perfect match for me,” he says. The couple is expecting their first child in September.

Comprehensive Health Care

The specialist at Digestive Disease Centers bring their and experience to patients throughout Northwest Indiana.

Harsh, Dalal, MD, FACG Navin Kumar, MD

Call Today!

Schedule an Appointment at One of Our Convenient Locations!

With offices in Merrillville, Munster, Winfield, and Valparaiso, we are able to schedule patient appointments very quickly to assess your symptoms, recommended a testing/ treatment plan, or to simply provide digestive wellness screenings and check-ups.

Dr. Harsh Dalal and Dr. Navin Kumar are dedicated to providing the highest quality of compassionate care, placing emphasis on their patients’ comfort, privacy and health concerns at all times.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

MERRILLVILLE 5825 Broadway Suite B 219-981-9000

MUNSTER 110 Ridge Rd. 219-922-4900

Digestive Disease Centers specialize in comprehensive care of all gastrointestinal and liver diseases with an array of testing and treatment services, including:

• Colon Cancer Screening • Colon Polypectomy • Upper Endoscopy • Esophageal Dilation • ERCP • Small Capsule Endoscopy

WINFIELD VALPARAISO 9150 109th Ave. 1551 E. Sturdy Rd. Suite 2C 219-464-7200 219-981-9000 january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 3

letter from the editor volume 8 | issue 1

T

Trying for resolve in a sea of self-indulgence

his time of year, articles abound on New Year’s resolutions, with the mindset that with a new year comes a new chance to make yourself better.

It’s no secret that I’m terrible with resolutions of any kind. You might say my middle name could be “indulgence”—I have virtually no willpower to hold myself back from something I want, especially when it comes to food.

A few weeks ago, I decided to start a diet—the same day I started my new job. But that Tuesday, as luck would have it, was election Day, and the tradition in newsrooms and media centers across the country is to have pizza as the numbers roll in. In fact, there were two pizza parties that day.

Wednesday, I ordered a sandwich without bread, trying to be good, and ended up with not only bread, but cheese and mayo. I ate it anyway.

Thursday was our chili cook-off and I participated by bringing brownies and cornbread. And Friday we had chicken stuffed with goat cheese at a luncheon, with chocolate and cheesecake truffles for dessert. I wholeheartedly partook of all of these.

One day, I want to run the 500 Festival Mini Marathon in Indianapolis, like most of my friends and family have. One day, I want to be able to wear the drapey kind of clothes that are so popular. One day, I want to be really good at

achieving a mental state of zen, so that I can control my crazy anxious thoughts on my own.

But it’s always put off until sometime in the vague, nebulous future. Because right now I’ve got a giant burrito to eat, and if you think I’m giving this up, you’re crazy.

But maybe I can change. Maybe we all can. In putting this magazine together, I read so many great articles that inspire me to be healthier, like the story on Meditation 101, which makes it seem so easy to start working toward the goal of mental clarity.

Or the articles on cleanses and pre-packaged meals, which offer new and exciting ways to eat healthier and make fewer unhealthy decisions—no need to pack a lunch on those hectic mornings!

In addition, lots of our stories this issue make me realize how important it is to take care of yourself for the future. I may be young now, but the choices I’m making can have a negative effect on my health in the not-so-distant future.

But one thing I’m absolutely sure we can all do this year are the simple activities suggested in the winter calorie-burning article. I have a feeling I’ll be shoveling a lot of snow, and if all else fails, it’s impossible to keep from shivering. Involuntary exercise may be the way to go for now. kathleen dorsey managing editor

CheCk out nwi.Com/gethealthy, where you’ll find: Our comprehensive calendar of Well-Being Events • Fresh new articles and information every day • Health advice from local and national experts • The place to sign up for our weekly email newsletter to receive advice and ideas on nutrition, fitness, mental health and health care

4 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

Publisher — BILL MASTERSON, JR. Associate Publisher/Editor — PAT COLANDER Managing Editor — KATHLEEN DORSEY Design Director — BEN CUNNINGHAM Designer — APRIL BURFORD Niche Assistant — LAVETA HUGHES Contributing Editors JANE AMMESON, HEATHER AUGUSTYN, LESLY BAILEY, TRICIA DESPRES, LU ANN FRANKLIN, TERRI GORDON, JULIE DEAN KESSLER, BONNIE MCGRATH, KIM RANEGAR, VANESSA RENDERMAN, SHARON BIGGS WALLER NiCHE PubLiCATioN SALES Account Executives MIKE CANE, ANDREA WALCZAK Advertising operations Managers ERIC HORON Advertising Managers DEB ANSELM, LISA DAUGHERTY, CRAIG CHISM Production Manager TOM KACIUS Creative Services Manager AMI REESE

Published by Lee Enterprises The Times of Northwest Indiana Niche Productions Division 601 W 45th Ave, Munster, Indiana 46321 219.933.3200 2080 N Main St Crown Point, Indiana 46307 219.662.5300 1111 Glendale Blvd Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 219.462.5151 Copyright, Reprints and Permissions: You must have permission before reproducing material from Get Healthy magazine.

Get Healthy magazine is published six times each year

by Lee Enterprises, The Times of Northwest Indiana, Niche Division, 601 W 45th Ave, Munster, IN 46321.

your life. better.

Imagine the future of healthcare.

You can stop imagining now.

The new Porter Regional Hospital is now open, and is introducing a whole new healthcare experience for patients in the region. Here are just a few of the special features you’ll find.

Find out more about the steps we’ve taken to bring you patient-centered care.

Visit www.PorterHealth.com/MyNewHospital.

85 East U.S. Highway 6, Valparaiso, IN

A communications system that keeps you in close contact with your nurse All private rooms A layout that makes it easy for patients and families to find their way

New advanced technology

Spacious, comfortable lobbies and waiting rooms

Valet parking Innovative design that streamlines lifesaving and complex care

Larger, more advanced ER for faster attention

Porter Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

63446_PORT_NHfuN_9_89x10cA.indd 1

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 5 8/20/12 4:12 PM

Challenges for healthCare are daunting, But uneXPeCted oPPortunities aPPear as well

C

hange is all around us, moving forward at top speed. Even as we welcome a new year and get past the election, there is uncertainty about the implementation of the Affordable Health Care Act, the creation of insurance exchanges (or not) and the future of care.

On a personal level most of us have been introduced to new models as we become more involved and responsible for our family’s consumption of products and services in the industry charged with keeping us healthy.

On a macro-level, healthcare networks have been making acquisitions, the number of for-profit-facilities continues to grow and many healthcare centers have broadened their mission or changed focus in a way that prevents redundancy and helps accessibility. The consumer in Northwest Indiana has more high-quality choices than ever before, as well as more opportunity to access efficient and effective preventative services and support for well-being. Even if you are healthy and engaged in the system and keep up with information, plans and programs, with new discoveries, treatments, technologies and specialties constantly emerging, navigating the micro-level can be a frightening experience.

Fortunately, there are people in our schools and public service careers who are actively working on solutions to dilemmas that plague the big picture: issues of cost and revenue that require years of thoughtful and directed planning.

But the good news is that our providers and our healthcare system have become smarter, though that is far from the only answer. There is competition in strong markets like ours and success stories—we write about survivors in every issue of Get Healthy, there seems to be no end of miracles when it comes to cures, treatments and marvelous recoveries—but at the same time there are always new maladies like the baffling challenges of autism, the debilitating effects of dementia and strokes on an aging population and the continuing trends of more people suffering from diabetes and obesity.

Taking care of ourselves and our families are not our only responsibilities, we can’t do it alone anyway. There is an overarching need to consider what happens next and how we can help secure that world. That sense of responsibility defines the mission of The Times and the Get Healthy brand. We are obviously advocates for quality and available care, but just as important are our commitments to economic development, fair access and education.

If you are part of the industry you know that supporting people from cradle to grave is one serious proposition. But even if you are not directly linked to a helping profession, you’re involved—transportation is of utmost concern, education for tomorrow is a requirement and communication and information are the starting point of hope.

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northwest indiana health Care advisory CounCil

tom keilman BP John doherty Doherty Therapeutic and Sports Medicine

John gorski Community Healthcare System

dr. alex stemer Franciscan Medical Specialists

donald fesko Community Hospital

Paul Chase AARP

lou molina Community Hospital mary ann shachlett Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana

dr. Pat Bankston Indiana University School of Medicine Northwest College of Health and Human Services, Indiana University Northwest

Joann Birdzell St. Catherine Hospital

Phillip a. newbolt Memorial Health System

Janice ryba St. Mary Medical Center

nitin khanna, md Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana

gene diamond Franciscan Alliance david f. ruskowski Franciscan St. Anthony Health Crown Point daniel netluch, md Franciscan St. Anthony Health Crown Point

thor thordarson Indiana University LaPorte Hospital state representative Charlie Brown state senator ed Charbonneau

Carol schuster, rn, mBa Franciscan Alliance

state senator earline rogers

thomas J. gryzbek Franciscan St. Margaret Health

______________

Jim lipinski Franciscan Alliance James t. Callaghan iii, md, mBa Franciscan St. Anthony Health Michigan City trish weber, rn, mBa Franciscan St. Anthony Health Michigan City Jonathan nalli Porter Hospital ian mcfadden Methodist Hospitals denise dillard Methodist Hospitals haroon naz Pinnacle Hospital Barbara h. greene Franciscan Physicians Hospital Beverly delao Franciscan Hammond Clinic rob Jensen Franciscan Hammond Clinic

marketing and Community relations mylinda Cane Community Healthcare System angela moore St. Catherine Hospital kelly Credit Porter Hospital mary fetsch St. Mary Medical Center marie forszt Community Hospital Joe dejanovic Franciscan Alliance ellen sharpe Franciscan Alliance maria e. ramos Franciscan Alliance

C.d. egnatz Lake County Medical Society

neil mangus, mha IU Health LaPorte Hospital

John t. king, md Franciscan St. Anthony Crown Point

sister m. aline shultz, osf Franciscan Alliance

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Colleen Zubeck Medical Specialists Centers of Indiana

willis glaros Employer Benefits Systems

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january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 7

what’s new

By Vanessa Renderman

Local Health News

HEALTHY PRODUCTS

Fitness Fridays continue

short, eleCtriC toothBrushes hit the shelves Panasonic has unveiled a series of battery-operated compact toothbrushes, an extension of its line of compact beauty products. The Panasonic EW-DS90’s compact head design offers three types of bristles. Triple-edged bristles easily clean areas between the teeth, flat bristles gently polish the surface of teeth and extra-fine bristles gently clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth and gums. The compact design allows it to fit in a purse, makeup bag or pocket. A cap covers the on/off switch so a user doesn’t have to worry about the toothbrush accidentally turning on and draining its battery.

Toothbrushes are available in black, pink and silver and cost $39.99.

Indiana University Health La Porte Hospital, the City of LaPorte and LaPorte County Family YMCA again have partnered to provide Fitness Fridays during the cold months.

People of all ages are invited to join Fitness Fridays on January 4 at the La Porte County Family YMCA, 901 Michigan Avenue in La Porte; January 18 at the La Porte Civic Auditorium, 1001 Ridge Street in La Porte; and February 22 at IU Health La Porte Wellness Services at The Crossing, 1201 Washington Street in La Porte.

All fitness events begin at 5:15 pm, and participants are encouraged to arrive early to register. There is no cost to participate, and all members of the public are welcome to attend to reach their fitness goals or simply participate in activities in an inviting atmosphere. Participants are required to wear gym shoes.

nurses select doctor For award

Dr. Frederick R. Klepsch is the 2012 recipient of Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Crown Point’s St. Raphael Award, which, since 2005, has recognized physicians who have improved patient care through the nurse-doctor relationship.

Klepsch, an orthopedic surgeon who has been with the hospital for all of his 32 years in the profession, said he felt privileged when he learned of the honor, which is named for Raphael, an archangel, patron saint of physicians and nurses.

The award is presented by the hospital’s Performance Improvement Council-Shared Decision Making.

In Klepsch’s award notification letter, Susan Jostes, chairwoman of the performance council, said nurses believe he exhibits a good rapport with them, provides education, serves as a resource, exhibits a team approach to patient care, shows respect for the nursing profession, supports nursing staff with patients, their families and the administration, and he portrays characteristics of a positive role model for physicians.

Hospital earns distinction

Porter Regional Hospital has been named a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement by Blue Cross Blue Shield.

The award is given to medical facilities that demonstrate expertise in delivering quality healthcare. This designation is based on rigorous, evidence-based selection criteria established in collaboration with expert physicians’ and medical organizations’ recommendations.

The goal is to help consumers find quality specialty care on a consistent basis, while enabling and encouraging health professionals to improve the overall quality and delivery of healthcare nationwide.

To date, Blue Cross Blue Shield has designated approximately 540 facilities nationwide as Blue Distinction Centers for Knee and Hip Replacement.

8 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

wristBand monitors sleeP, eats, movement UP, by Jawbone, is a wristband that tracks your life, including sleep, movement and food intake. The band syncs with an app that displays your data and lets you add information—such as meals and moods— and provides insight to help you move forward. The wristbands, which contain the technology, are wrapped in a medical-grade, hypoallergenic rubber and are available in small, medium and large, in onyx, mint green, light gray, blue, navy, red, orange and hunter green. Features include a power nap setting that will wake you up 26.5 minutes into a nap photos provided and an alert that sounds when you’ve been idle for too long. Wristbands are $129.99 and can be purchased online at www.jawbone.com/up. gluten-free CraCker line availaBle at wal-mart Crunchmaster, which sells gluten-free crackers, announced that its new line of kid-friendly snack crisps are now available at Wal-mart stores and coming soon to supermarkets nationwide. Its new flavors include cheddar cheezy crisps, cinnamon & sugar grammy crisps and sea salt multi-grain crisps. The crisps are a gluten-free alternative to regular cheese snacks and graham crackers, made with a blend of California brown rice, whole corn, whole sorghum and other gluten free grains. Crunchmaster Crisps are peanut free and certified gluten free by the Gluten Free Certification Organization. A package of crackers costs $2.58.

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 9

Dental IMPlantS

Dr. Jay Platt has served Northwest Indiana for over 20 years with quality oral surgery care. Choosing an oral surgeon is an important decision. Our team is composed of experienced professionals who are dedicated to your care. Dr. Platt attends 80 or more hours of Continuing Education per year and provides many Continuing Education seminars to the surrounding dental community. Dr. Platt has extensive training and expertise in placing dental implants, preserving and rebuilding the jaw, and treating conditions that affect a person’s face, teeth and mouth structures. Dr.Platt has placed thousands of dental implants over the past 24 years - placing his first one in 1989. We have a state-of-the-art Cone Beam CT Scanner in our office which provides full-cranial anatomically correct 3D images enabling us to better plan for patient care and treatment.

We offer a no-cost consultation and a complimentary CT scan if necessary for patients who are treated by Dr. Platt.

Do You Need to Go to an Implant Center?

You have undoubtedly seen and heard t.v. and radio ads promoting implant centers which are springing up all over the country. Many of them are advertising the convenience of having everything under one roof: the surgeon, the prosthodontist, the dental lab and a CT scan.

It is certainly convenient for the patients and the doctors providing treatment to have everything in one location; however, convenience should not be the primary consideration with implant treatment.

The most important factors should be the experience of the treating

10 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

clinicians, especially since surgical procedures are involved, so that each patient receives the optimal outcome. Some implant centers claim to be the leaders in implant dentistry and to have more experience than other clinicians. It is implied that because of the volume of implants placed and restored they are more experienced. However, the volume of implants placed in some cases is for all of their centers. The truth is that some of the doctors in these centers are very experienced and some are not any more experienced than their colleagues in the area.

Some implant centers have general dentists placing and restoring

implants who do not have near the training or experience as specialists. It is important to remember that this “advertising” is intended to “sell” the benefits of those particular implant centers, and you should take this into consideration when evaluating your various options.

Immediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration

Immediate Full Arch Provisional Restoration is a specific treatment option that is not appropriate for all patients. It is a suitable treatment option for those patients who are missing all of their upper and/or lower teeth, and who have adequate bone conditions to support an arch of teeth with only 4 implants. For these select patients fewer implants would be required, no bone grafting would be necessary, and so it is typically less costly than other implant procedures.

No Need to Change Dentists!

Unlike some “one stop shop” dental implant centers that make you use their dentists; we work with you and your current dentist. We are very fortunate in that in Northwest Indiana and Northeastern Illinois, there are many outstanding restorative clinicians. Dr. Platt works with most of them on a regular basis. We would encourage you to seek treatment from your current dentist whom you have a long standing relationship with. If you do not currently have a dentist, we can refer you to one that we work with frequently.

Please feel free to contact our implant coordinator, Monette, if you have any questions about treatment or to schedule a no-cost consultation.

322 Indianapolis Blvd.,• Suite 100 (Behind Steak N’ Shake) • Schererville, IN Interest Free Patient Financing Available

We Welcome neW patients

Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Fri. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

219•864•1133

www.jplattdds.com

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 11

survivor spotlight

Minor

Paul Zlamal’s wife nancy saved his life by insisting on a cardiac screening at Porter regional hospital.

Cardiac Arrest

P

aul Zlamal, for the most part, is the picture of good health.

The 52-year-old is active, running his own small construction business and enjoying hobbies during his free time—building race cars, trap shooting and hunting.

He knew something was wrong earlier this year, when he began feeling a little bit of discomfort in his chest.

It wasn’t a crushing feeling that many feel when having a heart attack, he said. Instead, it felt more like indigestion.

Zlamal’s wife, Nancy, wasn’t buying it. She convinced her husband to see a doctor in March, which after several tests eventually led him to a cardiac screening at Porter Regional Hospital in Valparaiso.

Hospital staff discovered his minor chest discomforts were instead a major problem. Zlamal’s life was in serious jeopardy, and he would need triple bypass surgery.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “I was functioning relatively well with the exception of having some mild chest pains and discomfort.”

According to the American Heart Association, many of the 79 million Americans like Zlamal who suffer from serious heart disease don’t even 12 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

know they have it.

In Zlamal’s situation, doctors discovered two of the arteries in his heart were 100 percent blocked and one 94 percent blocked.

“When it’s that bad, it’s called a widow maker,” Zlamal says.

Doctors told him had he not come in for help, he wouldn’t have lived much longer, Zlamal explains.

“The doctor kept saying I wouldn’t have made it.”

Three days after his cardiac screening, Zlamal underwent triple bypass surgery. The surgery occurred on a Monday and lasted about six hours.

By Friday, Zlamal was home.

Doctors credited his quick recovery to his overall good health, but also advised him on ways he could prevent this from happening again. Although genetics may have played a role, smoking and diet likely contributed to the blockages as well, Zlamal says.

Not only did he quit smoking two days before surgery, he’s also increased his cardiovascular exercise and changed some of his eating habits – something Zlamal says many are guilty of not doing.

“It just goes to show it could happen to anybody,” he says. “It’s a good lesson to everyone.”

Since March, Zlamal says he and his wife have recommended to at least two dozen friends and family members to take advantage of the cardiac screenings Porter Regional Hospital offers.

Porter Regional Hospital offers a free heart risk

tony v. Martin, the tiM es

Checkup reveals assessment that helps residents discover whether they may be suffering from heart disease.

The assessment is available two ways: online at PorterHealth.com/HeartAware or in person with a screener. Those interested in taking the assessment in person should call 1-800-453-2330 to schedule a screening.

Zlamal advises residents not to wait.

“We all take life for granted,” he says. “We think we are Superman.”

The hospital’s Center for Cardiovascular Medicine, considered a “heart hospital within a hospital,” provides advanced cardiovascular treatment in one location – housing 13 private cardiac rooms, four cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology rooms, and two future cardiac catheterization rooms.

The center was designed to provide the region’s growing population with one location where they are evaluated, consulted and treated through medical and surgical management, explains Karen Keltner, manager of marketing and communications at Porter Regional Hospital.

Zlamal says many think they have to travel outside of the region to get quality cardiac care, but the medical staff and tests that saved his life are close to home.

“I can’t say enough about my cardiologist and his team at Porter Regional Hospital, or my entire visit, which was fantastic,” he says. —Christine Bryant

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the body shop

Coldweather

Fitness how to stay aCtive in the winter

t

he weather outside may have you running to hide under the covers, but exercising in the winter is necessary for good health. You can even have fun while doing it.

Southlake Branch YMCA Group Fitness Coordinator Amy Lucka and Wellness Coordinator Cheryl Louttit agree that staying active in the winter not only helps you stay fit, but it also improves overall wellness.

“With the holidays coming, it’s important to stay active in order to keep your weight down and burn off some of those extra calories we all seem to consume this time of year,” says Lucka. Exercising in the winter keeps muscles limber in case of falls and helps people feel better about themselves overall, adds Louttit.

Need help getting motivated? Louttit and Lucka recommend working out with a friend, planning fun activities with the family, joining a group fitness class, such as Zumba, group cycling or boot camp, or finding a personal trainer.

“Personal trainers and fitness instructors work very hard to keep workouts and routines exciting and motivating for their clients and members,” says Lucka.

But you don’t have to stay indoors to get a good workout. Why not take advantage of the beautiful snowy landscape, have some fun and burn calories at the same time? Favorite winter pastimes like ice skating and sledding burn 294 calories every half an hour.

If you’re looking for a harder workout, strap on some skis. Opt for cross-country skiing at a 4 to 4.9 mph pace, which burns a whopping 336 calories in 30 minutes, compared to downhill skiing at a moderate pace, which expends 252 in the same amount of time. Snow shoeing for 30 minutes, just like cross-country skiing, burns 336 calories, as does a rousing game of ice hockey.

Living in the upper Midwest means you probably don’t need to be reminded that winter time isn’t all fun and games, but you can work up a serious sweat completing outside chores. Shoveling snow by hand or chopping wood for 30 minutes both burn 252 calories, while using a snowblower torches 189 calories every half an hour. —Ashley Boyer

DOS AND DON’TS OF WINTER FITNESS louttit and lucka shared these tips for exercising outdoors in colder temperatures: • DO dress appropriately.

Wear layers. “The first layer should be made of some sort of wicking material,” recommends Louttit, “and hats and gloves are extremely important as well.”

• DO limit outdoor activities in extremely low temps.

• DON’T exercise in below zero temperatures.

*Calories burnt were calculated for a person weighing 185 lbs using WebMD’s Fitness and Exercise calculator, which can be found at webmd.com.

14 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

Chest Pain?

Heart Attack?

Don’t wait to be sure.

The quicker you are medically treated, the less damage to the heart and better chance of a full recovery.

Community Healthcare System hospitals: Community Hospital in Munster, St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago and St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart are Accredited Chest Pain Centers. Our hospitals work seamlessly with area emergency medical services and internal hospital departments to assure that patients complaining of chest pain or discomfort are provided with immediate treatment that can help limit potential heart damage.

Recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack and responding immediately could make the difference between life and death.

The Warning signs of a Heart Attack:

If you or someone you know experience these symptoms, seek medical care immediately by calling 911 and get the help you need.

www.comhs.org january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 15

Just In Time for the Flu Season…

St. Catherine Hospital’s Hessville Family Care Center’s Immediate Care has expanded its hours to Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Walk-in patients welcome!

While getting sick is never convenient, there is a simple solution. Medical attention for illnesses that are not life-threatening is available through St. Catherine Hospital’s outpatient center located in Hessville. For immediate needs, lab work to x-rays, patients seeking help and answers can often get what they need in just one visit. No appointment is necessary Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and most insurance plans are accepted.

Conditions We Treat & Services Provided: • Cold/Flu

• Sprains/Strains

• Bronchitis

• Urinary tract infections

• Ear infections

• Sports physicals

• Minor lacerations/burns

• Lab Testing

Hessville Family Care Center 3432 169th St. Hammond, IN 46323 (219) 844-9060 www.comhs.org 16 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

GettinG to the root of

cleansing treAtments

Renewal: A new cAlendAr And A fresh stArt The holidays are over and the new year has begun. After the endless celebrations and stress of the holidays, what better time to focus on renewing yourself – mind and body? Whether you need to focus on weight loss, nutrition, or that minor ailment that just won’t go away, there is a myriad of new treatments, trends and products out there to help you on your journey.

One day you realize you’re just not your best self.

Your energy level is low, you feel sluggish, your body just feels out of sorts.

It

could be you need to rid your body of toxins that have built up over time, says Patty Alexander, sales associate for At Nature’s Door in Portage, Ind. “You can get a lot of sludge and mucus built up. Some people may not even realize that there’s too much fat in their liver.”

Health food stores offer body cleanses, from “quick fix” products used for a few days, to two-week regimens, to soaking your feet.

A simple foot bath can pull those toxins right out, says Gilham. Results are satisfyingly evident; the water turns murky and “it really stinks if you haven’t had one done for a long time,” says Gilham. “You and see and smell it working and it’s beneficial for your body.”

“Massage is another great way to release toxins,” says Gilham. “If you’re inactive, your lymph system is inactive, too. Massage is one way to get that lymph system flowing; it stirs up (all those toxins).”

Mary Arent at Au Naturel Market in Valparaiso, Ind., says she’s learned that a total body cleanser is recommended four times a year, at

the beginning of each season. “Even if you do it once a year, it’s better than not doing it at all. It’s a disease prevention. [Bad bacteria] doesn’t stay in your body. We’re the largest health food store in northwest Indiana, so we have lots of product choices here.”

These treatments sound nearly miraculous, but there can be side effects, and some people should not do it at all, says Gilham.

“With an intense body cleanse, afterward people can have flu-like symptoms – mostly feeling achy and fatigued. Sometimes the skin breaks out because the body is trying to get those toxins out.”

The upside, says Gilham, is that “You have much more energy, you sleep better, have better moods.”

But see your doctor first for approval, says Gilham.

You should not do body cleansing if: • you are nursing or pregnant • you’ve had a transplant • you have a pacemaker • you have Type I diabetes • you take certain medications (check with your doctor).

Gilham advises starting slowly if you’ve never had a body cleansing.

“It’s kind of a process getting through it, but afterward you feel like a million bucks.” —Julie Kessler

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 17

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The jump-start to your own exercise workout begins with incredible ease. The Torc Plus electrodes are placed on muscle groups specific to client needs to target

18 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

desired results. The electrodes rhythmically transmit a small electric charge that’s felt as a tingling sensation and deep-muscle massage, “fooling” the muscles into being active. Alternately tightening and loosening the muscles provides you with a workout while you simply relax. “The Torc Plus machine works every part of the targeted muscle group. I like what it’s done for my abs; it’s really strengthened them.”

mind relaxation with e-yoga

“e-Yoga is offered to ensure clients are relaxed and comfortable during Torc sessions. It delivers micro pulses of electrical current via small electrodes on the ears,” explains Rutishauser. e-Yoga is an FDA-recognized treatment for insomnia, depression and anxiety. “The stimulation received through the electrodes calms and relaxes the client,” says Rutishauser. “We’ve had clients fall asleep during e-Yoga, and later they tell us that at home they’re having the best sleep ever.”

innovation is infrared sauna

7e Fit Spa also offers the Sunlighten infrared sauna, the gold standard for delivering health benefits to the entire body. It’s such an important part of Torc Plus technology contributing to weight loss, pain relief, blood pressure reduction, better circulation, skin rejuvenation, wound healing, cell health, muscle recovery, and immunity—all vital aspects of a healthy lifestyle.

The 7e Fit Spa infrared sauna provides the deepest and most effective body cleanse—up to seven times more effective than a traditional sauna—through the body’s natural process of sweating. The leading principle of body detoxification is that illnesses can be caused by the buildup of toxic substances. Ridding the body of these toxins can help relieve symptoms, prevent illness and increase overall health and vitality.

“I go in to the sauna for the solitude

tony v. Marti n, the tiMes

When you catch a glimpse of yourself in a storefront window, do you wish those abs and arms were better defined? That your face still had that youthful tone? That your whole image reflected the refreshment of night after night of full, restful sleep? Then this news is for you: 7e Fit Spa clients experience exercise in a whole new way!

The new Torc Plus machine, an FDAapproved patented technology, at 7e Fit Spa in Highland, will help you reach your fitness goals with rapid results you can see and feel.

The 7e Torc Plus is a highly sophisticated and powerful device that mimics the body’s natural bio-electricity to work out abdominal, thigh, leg and arm muscles more effectively than a traditional workout. It helps to flatten the stomach, reduces cellulite, tones and reshapes a postpartum belly, and improves posture by strengthening core muscles. That’s why clients say they can see and feel the effectiveness of the Torc Plus machine in their first 30-minute session. Our clients have experienced an average loss of three inches around the abdomen.

The mission at 7e Fit Spa isn’t to replace all exercise. We provide no cardiovascular benefit to our clients. Our goal is help you see results faster and with more ease to provide you with the inspiration to begin or continue your own exercise regimen. We can assist when you “plateau” and need some additional muscular focus.

“I hadn’t been exercising for a while, so going through the Torc Plus program gave me the energy and the results I needed to motivate me to live a healthier lifestyle,” says Pete Rutishauser, 7e Fit Spa’s general manager. “People told me, ‘You’ve lost a lot of weight,’ which was great to hear, but I’m also stronger.”

and cleansing,” says Rutishauser. “But clients frequently mention the pain relief they get from it.” Our sauna uses cutting-edge, soothing Solocarbon heating technology to deliver the most therapeutic infrared heat per square inch to help you relieve stress, ease muscles, and fully relax.

Clients have reported relief from pain of fibromyalgia, arthritis and chronic fatigue.

If you’re looking to lose weight, our sauna can help. A recent study showed 7e Fit Spa’s saunas helped to reduce waistlines by burning calories while clients relaxed in comfort. Our saunas have been clinically shown to aid in weight loss.

reJuvenate your face

Thinking of an expensive cosmetic treatment such as a face lift? Why not rejuvenate your skin with our leading infrared sauna therapy? A study published in The Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy showed significant improvements in skin appearance in just 12 weeks of using near infrared technology, with reductions in wrinkles and crow’s feet, and improved skin tone, including softness, smoothness, elasticity and firmness.

7e fit spa general manager, Pete rutishauser demonstrates the torc Plus electronic muscle stimulation workout on melissa Bluett.

You can have a beautifully natural restoration of younger facial skin— without injections that can leave an artificial appearance. Our 7e Ultra Beauty Micro-current Facial is a multi-waveform electrical stimulation which tones and contours the face while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in most clients. It even re-educates facial muscles to bring firmness and contour to the face.

The programs offered at 7e Fit Spa offer a matchless combination of benefits: the treatments are non-invasive, have no down time, are pain free and produce outstanding results. That’s an investment in your own healthy future you can’t afford to miss. So get started now—call the 7e Fit Spa in Highland, Ind., and experience the most relaxing exercise you’ve ever known!

For more information please call (219) 922-7337 or visit us online at www.7efitspa.com.

facial Plastic surgeon, dr. sreekant Cherukuri offers patients the “weekend facelift” procedure.

Salon trend:

Botox, pedicure

in one stop

t

he nonsurgical nip and tuck has found a spot among curling irons and bottles of nail polish. Salons that sell non-surgical cosmetic procedures to smooth wrinkles and blast blemishes are hitting the region.

European Style Salon & Day Spa, 70 Lincolnway, in Valparaiso, started offering on-site treatments in August via appointment with a doctor who travels to the spa.

We have a culture where everyone wants to look younger, says spa owner Michelle Mangus. “What’s so great about this is you can get that look without surgery,” she says.

Mangus heard time and again about customers’ desires for cosmetic procedures, but many were nervous about attending “procedure parties” or going to a clinic. Having the procedures done on site helps clients embrace the services and puts them at ease.

They know the salon, they know the employees.

There’s a sense of comfort.

“You believe and trust your stylist,” Mangus says.

They offer a host of procedures, including Botox injections to lessen facial wrinkles, Latisse to thicken eyelashes and Sublime, which uses infrared light and bipolar radiofrequency to stimulate collagen growth for tighter skin.

Everything is organic, with nothing going into the body and nothing taken out, says medical aesthetician Meghan Pesich. Pesich works with family practitioner Dr. James Joseph by appointment, out of European Style Salon & Day Spa in Valpo, Elements Salon Spa Retreat in Dyer and Gaia Salon Spa in Schererville.

Both salons were looking to bulk up their menu by adding some medical services, she says.

At 7e FitSpa, the focus is on fitness. The most popular feature at the Highland franchise is the Torc Plus machine, which involves using electrodes to stimulate and strengthen muscle groups, says Pete Rutishauser.

The way a chiropractor or physical therapist uses electrodes to work out a knot or help people recover from surgery can also help in a workout regimen.

“It cannot substitute exercise, but it can help people start in the rhythm of exercise,” he says.

The business soon will offer microcurrent facials with the same concept of using electronerve stimulations to encourage muscles in the face to tighten, he says.

Cost varies. Members pay $59 per month and receive one session each month; the rest are $59 each.

There are group specials and deals that members can take advantage of. Non-members pay $89 per session and are not entitled to discounts and group packages.

People looking for longer-lasting changes without a full facelift have the option of a mini-facelift.

Dr. Sreekant Cherukuri, a facial plastic surgeon who has offices in Munster, St. John and Merrillville, has built his local practice around the one-hour procedure 99 percent of his patients undergo.

“We call it the weekend lift,” Cherukuri says.

A traditional facelift can mean four to six hours under general anesthesia, a long incision, a month of healing and a $20,000 bill, Cherukuri says.

Over the last decade, more attention has been drawn to plastic surgery. “It’s got less of a stigma,” he says.

But many patients don’t want to go under general anesthesia.

With his weekend facelift procedure, Cherukuri uses local anesthesia, similar to what a dentist would use to numb a mouth. He makes a small, S-shaped incision at the top of each ear, lifts and pulls the skin and trims it, without any facial distortion.

It is a long-lasting procedure with reduced risk and downtime.

It’s called a weekend lift, because a lot of patients have the procedure on a Friday and return to work the following Monday. They won’t be fully healed, but they will be well enough to work. Some people go shopping the next day, he says.

The cost starts at $3,900, increasing if people want to eliminate their “turkey neck.”

Cherukuri can smooth facial wrinkles with fillers, such as Botox. But for surface issues, people are better off going to a skin specialist.

“We focus on dramatic changes with minimal downtime,” he says.

For more information on the mini-facelift, visit www.theweekendlift.com. Pesich can be reached at (219) 798-0654 or ageless.meghan@gmail.com.

And to reach 7e FitSpa, call (219) 922-7337 or visit www.7efitspa.com. —Vanessa Renderman

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 19

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creAtinG your own indestructible

tony v. Martin, the tiMes

self

As one of the country’s top physicians, Dr. Alex Lickerman was leading quite a blessed life. He had just turned forty years old, and the future never looked brighter both personally and professionally.

He sat down to enjoy a delicious Sunday brunch…and within hours, his world turned upside down.

“At first, it looked like I would just need a routine appendectomy,” he explains during a recent interview with Get Healthy magazine.

“Yet, there were complications. All of a sudden, the idea of my mortality was thrust into my face, and I quickly recognized I needed to know how to deal with it.”

It was the culmination of these life-changing events six years ago that eventually led the former assistant professor of medicine and director of primary care at the University of Chicago and current assistant vice president for Student Health and Counseling Services at the University of Chicago to write a book on what it takes to become indestructible. In The Undefeated Mind: On The Science Of Constructing An Indestructible Self, Dr. Lickerman teaches readers the true road to happiness despite the circumstances.

“Resilience isn’t something that only a fortunate few are born with, but rather something that everybody can take action steps to develop,” he says. “As a physician, going through the health issues that I did certainly gave me a whole new perspective, especially when it came to dealing with my own patients. I am much more empathetic now that I recognize how vulnerable we all are. I want people to know that we can’t always try to avoid bad feelings—it’s normal

to be anxious or sad sometimes. Those feelings can actually be good for you if you know how to handle them.”

Especially in the ever hectic world in which we live, Dr. Lickerman says it’s never been more important to sort through the issues and tasks that tend to wear us down the most. “People are feeling overwhelmed these days based on the sheer number of things we are dealing with,” explains Dr. Lickerman, who utilized case studies, scientific research and the tenets of Nichiren Buddhism as a basis for the book. “So many of us wake up with a plate full of tasks, and when added together, they are indeed overwhelming. Yet, dealing with one thing at a time is always going to be the better choice.

Take an inventory of what is on your plate. It will give you a tremendous sense of control.”

The physical manifestation of the emotional luggage we carry is also something Dr. Lickerman says is becoming more and more concerning. “A stressed mental state is going to lead many to doing something that gives them pleasure, whether that means going shopping or eating too much,” says Dr. Lickerman’s, whose blog “Happiness in this World” is syndicated via the Psychology Today website and receives over 100,000 unique visitors per month. “The current state of the economy certainly serves as an added pressure. We can all find ourselves at our wit’s end when the reality out resists our expectations. We all try to be forecasting machines, but when things last longer than our expectations, it can be difficult. In most cases, one must come to the point of resetting their expectations about the life in which we live.” —Tricia Despres

january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 21

Health for

dr. k. doshi, a board certified anesthesiologist practicing in northwest indiana for 25 years, discovered the value of medical acupuncture from her own need for relief. • “it worked for me and i wanted to be able to share this option with others,” said dr. doshi, who launched munster medical Acupuncture and Wellness clinic, 1630 45th Ave. suite 103, in munster.

She received special training in medical acupuncture from UCLA’s Helms Medical Institute and is now a member of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.

A centuries-old practice, Dr. Doshi defines acupuncture as “a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning, done by inserting needles.”

Many prospective patients ask questions like, “Does it hurt?”

And, “I don’t like needles, is this still an option for me?”

And of course, “Is it safe?”

Others are always intrigued and curious about this procedure, and Dr. Doshi is always ready with the answer to an assortment of questions like these:

of pain or trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones that influence the body’s own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities and in promoting physical and emotional well being.

HOW dOes AcupuncTure WOrk?

Medical acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as support or adjunct to other medical treatment forms in many medical and surgical disorders. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems including digestive disorders (gastritis, hyperactivity, spastic colon, constipation, diarrhea...), respiratory disorders (sinus, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, recurrent chest infections...), neurological and muscular disorders (headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendinitis, low back pain...), urinary and menstrual problems and other problems related to tension, stress and emotional conditions.

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surfaces. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up. The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points and the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal court and brain. These chemicals either change the experience

22 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

WHAT is medicAl AcupuncTure And is iT differenT frOm OrdinArY AcupuncTure? Acupuncture is a very old medical art. Medical acupuncture is the term used to describe acupuncture performed by a doctor trained and licensed in Western Medicine who has also had thorough training in acupuncture as a specialty practice.

WHAT is THe scOpe Of AcupuncTure?

philip poteMpa, the tiMes

fine points

dr. k. doshi, of munster medical acupuncture and wellness Clinic, is a board certified anesthesiologist.

HOW mAnY TreATmenTs Are needed?

It differs from person to person. If progress is not gained after the first treatments, there is no need to continue.

WHAT Are THe needles like And dO THeY HurT? People experience acupuncture needles differently. Most patients feels only minimal pain as the needles are inserted, while some feel no pain at all. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth, rather than hollow with an edge like a hypodermic needle. Insertion to the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hypodermic needle. Because the needles are disposable, there is no risk of infection from the treatments.

Will insurAnce cOver AcupuncTure?

At this time, very few insurance companies or health plans fully reimburse patients for acupuncture treatments. Partial reimbursements may be available, depending on various insurance companies and health plans.

For more information and details, visit www. munsteracupuncture.com or call Dr. Doshi at (219) 595-3369. —Philip Potempa

Healthy hair the nAturAl wAy

in

recent years, most Americans have made healthier food choices a part of their every day lives. But what about the products we put on our bodies?

Local professionals in the beauty business say the quality of the soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair color and cosmetics also affect our health and well being. And the customer base for such products is growing.

“Knowledge of the benefits of organic food preceded this, but people are becoming more and more aware of using all natural beauty products,” says Amiee Boswinkle, a sales representative at Baums Natural Foods. “There’s a whole new movement out there. “ Jennifer Grow, a stylist at Studio One salon in highland, sees the emergence of green products as a cyclical one. “We are educating our clients, and our clients are educating us,” she says. Grow uses natural products such as shampoos from manufacturers Wen, Brocato, Simply Organic and eufora.

People with sensitive skin and allergies tend to seek out these kinds of products, according to Grow. however, both she and Boswinkle say they are seeing an increase in customers not suffering from these problems, but have other reasons for using green beauty products.

So what makes a beauty product green?

Customers should look for words they can recognize in ingredient lists, Boswinkle says. Listings like water, aloe vera, oats, vitamin C, green tea, tea tree oil, and extracts of natural herbs and fruits.

The price of green beauty products can be higher than conventional products. euphora products, for example, use fresh aloe, and honey is a popular ingredient in Simply Organic products.

The price difference could be because non-green products are “cheaper to produce [since they have] harsher chemicals,” Grow says.

Such chemicals common in mainstream products are parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, petrolatum, propylene glycol, silicone, ethoxylated ingredients, and ingredients with urea.

The companies themselves are solely responsible for the safety of their goods before they hit store shelves, according to the FDA website, since beauty products are not subject to FDA approval before they are sold.

Despite the prevalence of non-green products, green product lines will only grow in popularity, predicts Toni Lozano, supervisor of SpaPointe & hair Studio in Munster.

“People are becoming more environmentally conscious, and there’s a real concern about toxins,” she says. “The desire to use [green products] is definitely out there.”

—Susan Zajakowski

Beer: A heAlthier choice thAn wine?

Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, but its health benefits have been largely ignored, while the benefits of wine have come to the fore. But some studies now show that beer is actually healthier than wine.

Protection against heart disease comes from the alcohol itself. Ethanol lowers bad cholesterol and lowers the risk of blood clotting, which can lead to heart attack and heart disease.

“Studies have shown that a moderate amount of alcohol lowers instances of gall stones, type two diabetes, and raises cognitive function,“ says Andrea N. Giancoli, MPH, RD, spokesperson for The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Alcohol is a diuretic, so it can be dehydrating, but Giancoli says that because beer has so much water, around 90 to 94%, there’s less of a chance of dehydration than with wine. “Beer contributes to your fluid content more than wine, which may also decrease the risk for kidney stones,” she says.

Research has also shown that moderate alcohol consumption helps bone density. “Moderate beer drinkers have a protective effect and that’s because of silicon present in beer,” says Giancoli.

Beer also packs more vitamins than

wine. “Because barley is a whole grain it has more B vitamins than wine. There’s also a small amount of B12 from the bacterial growth; B12 is usually only found in animal products, and is not found in wine.

Beer also contains more selenium than wine, which is an antioxidant.”

Which beer is better? Giancoli says the more malt in beer, the more B vitamins present. “Darker beer also has more fiber,” she adds.

“Some beers with more hops are going to have more phytochemicals.

Light beers will have fewer calories, however this is achieved by removing some alcohol or carbohydrates, which can change the taste. A more robust beer is more satiating and may prompt you to drink less.”

There are potential health benefits to a moderate amount of alcohol, but one beer a day may suit some people and not others.

“Beer is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Enjoy a beer with a meal, which is the healthiest way to drink it because alcohol on an empty stomach can be acidic to the stomach lining. Beer can even enhance the flavor of your meal,” says Giancoli.

Recommended daily amount is no more than two 12 ounce servings for a man or one 12 ounce serving for a woman, says Giancoli.

—Sharon Biggs Waller

simple treAtments for

Varicose veins

The veins can occur in anyone, but are most commonly found in people who do heavy lifting or people who work long hours on their feet, like teachers or hairdressers.

Although men can get varicose veins, they are primarily found in women. Pregnancy also causes the veins, and often occur during the second and third trimesters, Dr. Haddadin says.

Dr. Guanzon says some varicose veins are internal, and cannot be seen from the skin’s surface.

Dr. Guanzon says compression stockings are a good way to treat beginning-stage spider or varicose veins.

However, they have their drawbacks, he says.

“Some people find them difficult to put on and they are uncomfortable in the summer, but they’re a mainstay in the treatment of the disease,” Dr. Guanzon says.

Dr. Haddadin says walking also helps because it makes the calf muscles good news is, to pump more blood through the the veins can be veins. Controlling your weight and treated by one of keeping your feet elevated can also several simple, painless outpatient help, Dr. Haddadin says.

But if the spider veins and procedures, says varicose veins need to be treated, Dr. Isam Haddadin, who runs the Vein Care Center the treatment process is easy and in Highland. nearly painless, Dr. Haddadin Varicose veins are commonly found in the lower says. extremities, but can also be found in other parts of Spider veins are treated through the body. Veins bring blood back to the heart through a process called sclerotherapy, a series of valves that help blood throw through in which they are injected towards the heart. The varicose veins form when those valves don’t work correctly, Dr. Haddadin says. with chemicals to help them “The blood has to flow against gravity, helped with close.

Varicose veins can the valves and muscular contraction of the calves and be treated in a simple thigh,” he says. “When the valves don’t close tight, outpatient procedure. They the blood tends to trickle down.” can either be closed using a The valve leaking can cause the veins to enlarge laser or by radio frequency, and bulge, which forms spider veins as well as the Dr. Haddadin says. more serious varicose veins.

Or, they can be treated “The smallest veins become spider veins and can be pink, red or blue,” he says. “Varicose veins may bulge through cutting out a portion of the vein and become kinky or tortuous.”

varicose veins can cause big, unsightly ropes down your legs, but the problem can be more than just a cosmetic one. The veins can cause persistent pain, tiredness, cramping and restless legs. • left untreated, serious varicose veins can cause blood clots in deep veins that can go directly to the lungs. They can also cause ulcers and bleeding, says dr. mateo Guanzon, a munster-based cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon who has been treating vein diseases for more than 25 years.

the

24 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

through a small incision.

Dr. Haddadin says a new method of treatment, called MOCA, has become more popular over the last few years. In that procedure, the inside of the veins are scraped before they are treated with chemicals.

“There is a little rotor wire that scrapes the inside vein walls and then they are injected with chemicals for permanent closure,” he says. “You don’t need anesthesia, and you don’t have pain during or after the procedure.”

Dr. Guanzon says he treats his most serious of cases might with surgery in a hospital.

Those veins need to be treated where the superficial vein meets the root vein.

“You need to treat the underlying problem,” he says.

Karen Kruzan, the office manager for the Vein Care Center, says most insurance companies cover treatment of spider veins and varicose veins, depending on the treatment chosen. Since the MOCA procedure is still relatively new, not all insurance companies are covering that form of treatment, Dr. Haddadin says.

Dr. Guanzon says that while each individual patient recovers differently, most require little or no follow-up treatment after the procedure is complete.

“Most feel an improvement in their symptoms,” he says. “They feel less pain, and see an improvement in their lifestyle.”

Kruzan says if you are suffering from painful varicose veins, it is important to get them treated as soon as possible.

“The problems don’t go away themselves,” she says.

“It’s like a cavity. If you let it fester, it gets worse.

They can become more painful and cause other medical problems.” —Carrie Rodovich

H O B A RT

MUNSTER

For an appointment or more information, call: Hobart – 219-947-6122 Munster – 219-836-4900 or toll free: 1-866-224-2059 St. Mary Medical Center 1400 S. Lake Park Ave. Suite 200 Hobart, IN Community Hospital 801 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 402 Munster, IN january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 25

on your mind

MeDITATION

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Contact us today: 219-286-0233 inspire@360refresh.com www.360refresh.com/duneland

26 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

Dr. Dinesh Kalra, M.D., FACC

Once known as a spiritual discipline practiced in eastern cultures, meditation has now found itself in the mainstream, with many touting its health benefits.

“Meditation is becoming much more widely accepted,” says Di Billick, who teaches meditation classes at east Wind Studios in Chesterton.

“People seem to be more interested in alternative ways to deal with stress and health issues, and meditating regularly can help these issues.”

While meditation may seem time-consuming or complicated, Billick says it’s anything but.

Meditating just 15 minutes a day can dramatically drop stress levels, she says.

“Blood pressure levels can decrease once stress is lowered and anxiety can disappear completely, which also may help reduce anxiety-related disorders,” she says.

Beginners often face the biggest challenge of learning how to relax and letting go of self-judgment.

Classes like Billick’s offer beginners a place to leave their worries and hectic lives at the door. here are some tips on how to get started in practicing meditation.

• Find at least 15 minutes of free time and go to a calm and quiet place. remove any distractions, such as your phone and computer.

• Get comfortable. The National Institutes of health says meditation can be done in any position, including sitting, lying down or even walking.

• Begin to focus. Let your mind and body settle direct your thoughts to something, whether it’s your breathing, an image or a word.

• Stay focused. It’s inevitable that your mind will wander. Bring it back to the item you picked to focus on, and don’t get frustrated if keeping your mind focused on that one item is difficult.

• Close out your meditation. Slowly allow your thoughts to return to your day, and repeat as needed.

—Christine Bryant

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Learn more about MAS PLIF. Visit www.nuvasive.com.

Dr. Khanna and Dr. Tyndall of Spine Care Specialists perform the MAS PLIF procedure, in addition to other minimally disruptive techniques.

Dwight Tyndall, M.D., FAAOS Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon

Nitin Khanna, M.D., FAAOS Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon

Spine Care Specialists, in Munster, IN, offers the full spectrum of Spine Care solutions for patients suffering from painful conditions of the spine including comprehensive diagnostic services, conservative treatment approaches, and the latest surgical options in the event that surgery is required. All surgeons are Board certified and Fellowship trained, and dedicated solely to the care of the spine.

To schedule a consultation, please call 219.924.3300 or visit www.spinecarespecialists.com.

As with any spine surgery, there are potential benefits and possible risks. Discuss these with your doctor to determine if you are a candidate for the MAS PLIF procedure. © 2012. NuVasive, Inc. All rights reserved.

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january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 27

holiday health tips

food & fitness

Healthy eating for people on the go s iMe t he ,t

courtesy of dav id f tos o .d ph

or

g er nb

mrs. dornberg’s Culinary experience in highland, teaches classes on making healthy foods.

says. She started her business to fill a void in the area.

“Since I cook in a certain way and in a healthy way, it was hard for me and my husband to go out to eat because it wasn’t the same caliber we were used to.” toni The preplanned meals smith, of seattle are so popular that Dornberg sutton, shows currently cannot accept any new healthy clients, but those who are interested can meals. add their names to a waiting list. In response to her clients’ needs, Dornberg started teaching cooking classes.

“I can only service so many people a week with the (healthy Living eating plan.) I just saw there was a need for people to understand that healthy meals are not difficult. They don’t take a lot of time. You just have to know some tips and tricks to gain confidence in the kitchen.”

Classes are Wednesday through Saturday and the schedule changes monthly. Demonstration classes feature in-depth discussions on techniques and ingredients. She also offers hands-on classes and what she calls make & take classes, where students prepare items to be eaten later. In December, for example, she will offer a Christmas cookie class where participants can bake a variety of cookies for their upcoming holiday parties.

Other classes range in topic from basic knife skills to Beef 101 to do-it-yourself Mediterranean dinner party. —Jennifer Pallay ton yv .

M ar tin

E

ating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. Local businesses make it easier to choose better eating habits, and interest in their life changing programs continues to grow.

Seattle Sutton healthy eating, which provides 21 freshly-prepared (prepackaged) meals each week, takes the guesswork out of how to eat better and costs less than eating out every day.

Toni Smith, of the highland Seattle Sutton location, says the diet is heart healthy, low in cholesterol, low in fat and sodium restricted.

“It’s not just for losing weight,” Smith explains. It also makes meal planning easier for those with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.

Clients have a lot of variety with a menu that changes every five weeks to avoid repetition. Sample entrees include fluffy egg noodles with meatballs, baked fish almondine and robust potato skins.

The diet is also easy to use for those with busy schedules.

Salads, fruits and vegetables are included so clients only need to add beverages to complete their meal. The system offers either a 1,200- or 2,000-calorie-per day plan. The 1,200-calorie plan is $129 a week and the 2,000–calorie plan is $149 per week.

Delivery is also available at an additional charge.

“We’ve been in business over 25 years,” Smith says. helping clients eat healthy is nothing new to Cheryl Dornberg, owner of Mrs. Dornberg’s Culinary experience in highland. Since starting her business in 1996, she has seen increasing demand for healthy, easy and affordable meals. her healthy Living eating plan helps those who are too busy to cook during the week but who still want homemade food. Clients order from a weekly menu of meals, baked goods and more and can adjust the amount of food to what they need that week.

“It’s what they would make if they had the time,” Dornberg

drink plenty of water every day. it keeps you full, aids digestion and improves overall health. sleep is important, especially during high stress times like the holiday season. eat a small, healthy snack before attending holiday events.yogurt, fruit or vegetables are ideal. if indulging in an alcoholic beverage, choose one glass of wine. mixed drinks contains more empty calories. if you receive unhealthy food as a gift, bring it to work and share with co-workers. when traveling, bring healthy snacks to avoid the common unhealthy options. the key to a healthy lifestyle, even during the holidays, is to understand that it is a lifestyle choice and must be maintained on a daily basis.

Source: seattlesutton.com

for more information seaTTLe suTTON For more information or to set up a meal plan, visit seattlesutton.com or call (219) 972-3438.

The Highland location, 9222 indianapolis Blvd., suite D, is also open during meal distribution hours, 3 to 7 p.m. mondays and Thursdays. mrs. DOrNBerg’s CuLiNary experieNCe To join a healthy “make & take” class, call (219) 922-4534. schedules are available at mrsdornbergs.com.

provided

Experience the DaVita difference

ALOE vERA DRINkS FLOWING IN THE MARkETPLACE

aloe vera has popularly been used for its topical healing properties for ages. But lately, the plant is showing up in greater numbers in various beverages. “people have known about the benefits of aloe vera for years, especially in the health food market,” said Kelly Brubaker, manager of Nature’s Cupboard, with locations in Chesterton and michigan City.

Brubaker said the store carries not only the straight aloe vera juice but specialty beverage drinks made with aloe.

“We carry [the brand] aLO in different flavors and we have the [straight] juice by george’s, Lilly of the Desert and aloe Life,” she said.

While the straight juice has been popular at the shop for years, Brubaker said the aLO flavored drinks have been sold at their store for about a year. she said their health-conscious patrons regularly purchase the juice for aloe’s benefits from alleviating digestive problems to offering other soothing properties. in detailing aloe’s healing properties on its website, the global Healing Center states “The bulk of the aloe vera leaf is filled with gel, which is approximately 99 percent water. The other 1 percent contains over at least 75 known nutrients, including 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids, 200 active plan compounds called phytonutrients, and of course, water.” in addition to the brand aLO, other manufacturers

include aloe vine and Tulip international inc., which are both products of Korea. aloe vine is distributed through the JJ martin group of Brooklyn, N.y. among interesting flavors in the aloe vine line are mango, grape, pomegranate and guava while Tulip international‘s T’Best collection features flavors such as peach, pineapple, lychee, kiwi, strawberry and more.

The aLO company features drink variations such as aLO escape, with a mix of pineapple, guava, and seabuckthorn berry; aLO exposed, made with aloe vera pulp and honey; aLO awaken, with aloe vera and wheatgrass; aLO enrich, with pomegranate, cranberry and real aloe vera. aLO was recently awarded the 2011 interBev Beverage innovation award for Best Natural Functional Drink and also recently won the Bevstar Bronze award in the Functional/New age category form Beverage World magazine. “it’s a growing niche within a niche,” said Jeff Cioletti, editor in chief of Beverage World magazine, about the appearance of aloe drinks in the marketplace.

Cioletti said the magazine’s personnel gave their award to aLO in 2011 on the basis of innovation in the emerging aloe segment. as with all food and beverages with healthy properties, consumers should speak with their doctor prior to purchasing and drinking all products. manufacturers state no specific claims for medicinal purposes or cures. —Eloise Marie Valadez

with in-center and home dialysis.

DaVita® serves more than 128,000 patients that are diagnosed with chronic kidney failure or chronic kidney disease (CKD) in approximately 1,642 centers nationwide.

Visit one of our convenient locations.

Chesterton (219) 926-6049

Hammond (219) 932-1199

Portage (219) 764-0564

East Chicago (219) 397-1199

Merrillville (219) 793-9035

St. John (219) 365-5043

Gary (219) 887-1199

Michigan City (219) 878-1989

Valparaiso (219) 531-1299

Munster (219) 836-1299

1-888-DaVita-8

www.DaVita.com january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 29

senior scope

DIABETES’ link to

ALzHEIMER’S LzHEIMER HEIMER aND HOW TO avO avOiD OiD iT Drop the Big Mac, don’t order the extra fries and stay away from super-sized and super-sugared sodas. As diet busting and insidious as they are, there may be an even worse evil here. Currently, some researchers are hypothesizing that our lifestyles of saturated fats, too many sweets and overlarge portions of food may be one of the reasons why we’re seeing an explosion of Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s disease is an increasing threat to our health. Currently the 6th leading cause of death in this country, it is a progressive degenerative disease resulting in the loss of memory, thinking and language skills as well as behavioral changes.

Call it Type 3 brain diabetes. That’s the term coined by Dr. Suzanne DeLaMonte, a Brown Medical School neuropathologist who autopsied the brains of Alzheimer’s patients and discovered they showed signs of insulin resistance—an early indicator of diabetes.

This discovery, supported by further research, led to the theory that what we eat, which is impacting the exponential increase of Type 2 diabetes epidemic, may also playing a role in the increasing rate of Alzheimer’s—resulting in a third form of diabetes.

“Insulin disappears early and dramatically in Alzheimer’s disease. In the most advanced stage of Alzheimer’s, insulin receptors were nearly 80 percent lower than in a normal brain,” DeLaMonte says in the December 15, 2005 issue of the National Review of Medicine.

“There’s a link,” agrees Dr. Mark Simaga, neurologist and president of the medical staff at

30 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart noting both that patients with Alzheimer’s have a brain insulin resistance and those with diabetes are much more likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

“Cells in the blood vessels in the brain are insulin dependent, so their metabolism and other functions could be altered by diabetes which could potentially alter blood flow to the brain,” says Michael S. LaPointe Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Director Pre-Health Professions at Indiana University Northwest. “Also metabolites from adipose cells or other cells, or other hormonal changes secondary to diabetes could alter brain function and potentially lead to Alzheimer’s disease.”

According to Dr. Marvin Zelkowitz, a boardcertified neurologist on staff at Ingalls Memorial Hospital, high sugar and fat are detrimental for good brain functioning.

“Rats who get fed high fat diets lose their memory more quickly,” says Zelkowitz. “High fat also means less learning. Fats are also a challenging correlativity in that your pancreas has to work all the time, putting a lot of stress on it. High sugar content in diets means that the pancreas has to put out more insulin, another stressor on the pancreas.”

The stress impairs the body’s ability to move sugar through the metabolism in the appropriate way causing brain insulin resistance (BIR) which then impairs neuron receptors. BIR is an early and common feature of Alzheimer’s.

At this point, says Dr. Tim Ames, Medical Director

dr. mark simaga shows a brain scan to a patient at st. mary’s medical Center in hobart. tony v. Martin, the tiMes

of Healthlinc, the Valparaiso Federally Qualified Community Health Center, Whether Type 3 brain diabetes is still a hypothesis.

“But it fits in with the narrative we have going that if we all eat healthy and exercise, we’ll be healthier,” says Ames noting that diabetes causes damage to small blood vessels which are a cause of multi-infarct dementia (MID)—a condition similar to Alzheimer’s in terms of memory loss. “Physical exercise and mental stimulation are important. The more rest you give your brain, the worse it does. Research also shows that it’s important to avoid social isolation. The baby boomers have to get out in front of this because Alzheimer’s is going to be a huge problem.”

Indeed, according to a presentation by Simaga at St. Mary’s Medical Center Alzheimer’s Symposium currently every 68 seconds someone develops the disease. By mid-century, this will likely be every 33 seconds.

“The lower our blood sugar levels, the longer we live,” says Zelkowitz. “Doing crossword puzzles doesn’t probably help because you’re recalling what you already know. It’s the new experiences which keep the brain active. It’s like a rat running through a maze—you’re learning new things. Crossword puzzles are okay if you’re sitting there with a dictionary.”

The best exercise we have for the brain is human interaction, says Simaga. “It’s staying active, having friends—doing everything that promotes vascular health.” —Jane Ammeson

Dr. Elizabeth Rutherford MD FACOG

“Trimboli Chiropractic is awesome!!

You receive the best care. From the doctors to the staff, it is an amazing place to go to get relief from back and neck pain.”

– I.R.B., patient Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Elizabeth Rutherford MD FACOG, Dr. Cheryl Short MD FACOG, Dr. L. Jennifer Murphy MD FACOG and Dr. Crystal Strickland MD FACOG

It’s All in the Numbers

When you suffer from pain it robs you of your quality of life.

At Trimboli Chiropractic our goal is to follow a treatment plan that will return you to a pain-free life as gently, effectively, and as quickly as possible.

Dr. Elizabeth Rutherford MD FACOG • Dr. Cheryl Short MD FACOG • Dr. L. Jennifer Murphy MD FACOG • Dr. Crystal Strickland MD FACOG

It’s not Associates, exactly as easy as 1, 2,offers 3, but when it comes to your health, the numbers do & Gynecological Inc., advanced Meet Dr.thatRutherford • matter.

The physicians at Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates, •Inc. remind you and gynecological care in Northwest Indiana.

a comprehensive annual exam is the key to knowing exactlyDr. where you standisand what Certified Fellow of the Rutherford a Board

ce evidence-based obtain the best you can domedicine—To to maintain or improve your overall health.

American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology with utcomes, we individualize our approach to provide over 12 years of experience in the passionate care of In addition to monitoring your weight and blood pressure and asking you to describe women’s health needs. r patients with the information and options she your overall health, your doctor may recommend other screenings and tests based on make informed decisions about her health.

Dr. Rutherford received her BS, Cum Laude, from your age and condition, such as:

Indiana University in Bloomington and her MD from

as a team—WhenAnyou choose one of our doctors, annual Pap smear to test for cervical cancer or the of Medicine in Indianapolis. After IUpresence School of t only a highly qualified also our cancer completing her residency at York Hospital in abnormalindividual, cells that couldbut signal a future d and fully supportive team behind her.

Pennsylvania, she spent nine years with Marshall

A complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate your overall health and detect County Obstetrics & Gynecology, St. Joseph a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection and leukemia stand women—As a group of all-female, Board Regional Medical Center, in Plymouth, IN, where she

bstetricians and Gynecologists, wedetection understand A mammogram for early of breast cancer. was Chairman of the department of Obstetrics & Gynecology. e are women—sisters, mothers and daughters— Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may also order tests to check hormone u.

Dr. Rutherford has extensive experience in pelvic levels related to menopause, or monitor your cholesterol levels, blood sugar, bacterial

reconstruction, laparoscopic surgery, urogynecology

e the difference makes. counts, experience thyroid levels or other indicators of your overall health. and menopause management.

At OAG, we understand the numbers, because we understand women.

Call uswith or visit Beth is pleased all our that Valparaiso has to offer. website today to learn more and schedule your appointment.

She plans to move her family here as soon as they find a house and is looking forward to becoming part of the community.

Mention this ad for your first visit FREE!

Now Accepting New Patients Glendale Medical Center 1101 E. Glendale Blvd., Suite 102, Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 462-6144 (877) 462-6249 Now Accepting New Visit www.weunderstandwomen.com to learn morePatients and make an appointment.

See our website for complete information www.trimbolichiro.net

Glendale Medical Center 1101 E. Glendale Blvd., Suite 102 Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 462-6144 (877) 462-6249 Visit us at www.weunderstandwomen.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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find us on facebook 706 Ridge Road, Munster (219) 836-8890

12732 Route 41, Cedar Lake, IN (219) 374-4144 january/february 2013 | GET HEALTHY | 31

tony v. Martin, the tiMes

ask the expert Dr. NANCY TrIMBOLI

Discusses the myths and benefits of Chiropractic care chiropractors can provide helpful treatments for many medical ailments, from ear infections to headaches to back problems. dr. nancy trimboli of trimboli chiropractic shares some insights she has learned since opening her own clinic in Munster in 1993.

Q: what are the most common reasons people look to the chiropractic profession for pain relief as opposed to their physician, physical therapist, etc? I believe people are looking for a better way. Most people understand that the medication does not fix the underlying cause, plus that there is short term and, more dangerous, long term side effects. Surgery is expensive, daunting, with no guarantee of success.

If you can fix your problem without drugs, why wouldn’t you? A healthier nation means we free ourselves from unnecessary drugs.

Q: what are some misconceptions about the chiropractic industry? The medical profession has become much more accepting of alternative care. Weekly, we make referrals to medical doctors and receive referrals from medical doctors. Many people have the misconception that Chiropractic is only wrenching and twisting. This is not true.

Some techniques use about as much pressure as you would use to ring a door bell. When you are adjusted in my office there is no popping or twisting type adjustments unless you request that

32 | GET HEALTHY | nwi.com/gethealthy

technique. Many people, after their first adjustment with us, say something to the effect of, “That was it?

That was easy!”

Q: what are some ways chiropractic procedures can help the everyday person feel better? Chiropractic uses the power of your body’s own healing potential. Chiropractic improves sleep patterns, strengthens the immune system, and levels moods. You will be more flexible and agile in your daily life. Children perform better at school and in sports with better focus and better coordination. Families notice that their house resists the viruses and colds that plague other families.

Q: Can you explain how getting your infant or toddler adjusted can help reduce the number of ear infections they get? If a misalignment of the upper neck exists, the nerves to the head, neck, eyes, ears, sinuses, jaw and face will be affected. By doing a specific spinal adjustment, we restore the proper nerve impulse.

Only then can the body make positive changes

for the better. Also, remember that the overuse of antibiotics is to blame for an increasing number of untreatable infections. The surgery to implant tubes often needs to be repeated.

Q: since you opened your business, what are some of the changes you have noticed about your clientele? When I first started practice in Munster in 1993, some people could not pronounce the word, “Chiropractic.” It is exciting for me to see the interest in not only Chiropractic, but also massage therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional supplements. As our health insurance world evolves, more and more of our patients come to us knowing that they get more out of their health care dollar at our office. For less than the cost of a prescription, you can get the adjustment to likely help your primary problem and also improve your sleep, mood and immune system.

FOr yOur iNFOrmaTiON

For more information about Dr. Trimboli’s practice, visit trimbolichiro.org.

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