Health

September 28, 2010

Health The Examiner

• Tracey Shaffer

Look past kiwi’s fuzz – Page 9

Breaking ground Latest MRI imaging technology coming to Centerpoint – Page 4 • LARRY jONES

Set a healthy example Wellness 2-3 • CaLENDAR 6-7 • NUTRITION 9-11 for your kids – Page 2

wellness

Page 2 Tuesday, September 28, 2010

healthSHORTS Breast cancer seminar Oct. 5 St. Mary’s Health Center in Blue Springs will be holding a free education seminar about breast cancer on Oct. 5 in the education center.

It will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Speaking will be Dr. Richard Kuckelman, a radiologist with the hospital’s breast center and a recognized leader in breast cancer diagnosis.

The event is free. For more information and to make a reservation, call 816-228-3335.

‘On the Upswing’ tournament to benefit Solace House The eighth annual golf tournament to support Solace House will be held Oct. 4 in Prairie Village.

The tournament, “On the Upswing,” will be at the Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club.

The 18-hole tournament is a service of Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care and Kansas City’s only grief resource center for children, individuals and families who have lost a loved one.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. and a tee-time of 10:30 a.m. Call 816-276-2616.

– Michael Glover

Health Tip You may be watching your weight, but eating at restaurants nowadays can often be considered more of a social experience rather than a nourishment necessity.

If you don’t want to be excluded from lunch and dinner dates, try choosing a deli-type restaurant where you can choose exactly what goes into your meal.

Try low-fat turkey or ham and wholewheat bread, and load up your sandwich with veggies.

Did You Know?

Grand Rapids, Mich., was the first community to add fluoride to their municipal water supply in 1945. In 1951, water fluoridation was deemed a safe and effective way to combat tooth decay by the National Academy of Sciences’ National Research Council.

– GateHouse News Service

Keeping Kids Healthy through their first day, cold, scrape, earache, broken bone…

At Blue Springs Pediatrics, your child’s health is top priority for us.

Our mission is to provide quality, efficient and effective medical care for your children. Schedule an appointment today for a new patient consultation, and together we’ll look after your child’s health and well-being.

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Blue Springs Pediatrics A division of Lee’s Summit Physician’s Group

816.554.6520

1600 NW South Outer Rd., Blue Springs, MO www.bluespringspediatric.com

Start a dialogue about obesity with your children And be sure your diet sets an example Perhaps you have seen the advertisements on television with children talking to their parents about obesity. Overweight and obese children represent a public health concern as well as an economical one.

According to the Health and Human Services, the number of adolescents who are overweight has tripled since 1980 and the prevalence of overweight among younger children has more than doubled. Let’s look at what has led up to this dilemma.

Where do children eat? In general, many children and adolescents eat more food away from than at home, they drink more sugarsweetened drinks and snack more frequently.

Many of the things featured in television advertisements include less expensive, high fat items. That encourages buyers to purchase more high fat items. Face it: eating out is easier and faster than cookking at home. Convenience becomes more important than health, and unfortunately, we can see the effects of quick service and ready-to-eat -meals.

Watching television, working at the computer and playing video games have also led to increased girth in our young people. Usually “grazing” accompanies the time spent in front of the television or the computer. The word grazing refers to those who unconsciously eat while their mind is elsewhere. Grazing can result in an intake of up to an additional 500 calories a day.

What can you and I do as parents and grandparents? Help your child maintain a healthy weight from the start. Eat as a family and take the time to teach your children the importance of eating healthy. It is important to talk to the pediatrician about any health concerns you might have. You as a parent play a crucial role in helping children stay healthy

Larry Jones Larry Jones is director of the Independence Health Department.

and strong. Don’t be afraid to bring up topics of health, but at the same time, be sensitive and non-judgmental.

Becoming active is an important lifestyle change for your family. Praise your child for eating vegetables, snacking on healthy food and being physically active. As a parent, make healthy snacks available. After all, an apple is just as ready-to-eat as chips. Set a good example. Our children tend to mirror us. If you want your child to eat healthier foods, you must be first in line.

Obesity in children, if not taken seriously, increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, respiratory problems, orthopedic problems, depression and type 2 diabetes.

Remember, children and teens do not need food restricted diets. Education on what to eat will better benefit them in the long run.

Keeping children healthy and growing strong includes taking steps to keep them active and eating healthy foods every day. Prevention always comes before treatment. Stay health as a family.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010 Page 3

wellness

Protect yourself now from seasonal flu You can be contagious one day before you exhibit any symptoms Fall brings bright orange and red leaves, tailgating, crisp morning air and influenza.

Last year 12,000 died from complications from influenza. The Center for Disease Control recommends all Americans receive the influenza vaccine unless they fall into certain groups. Influenza and immunization, what do you know?

True or false 1. Those with egg allergies should not get immunized.

2. Those under age 5 should not be immunized.

3. The vaccine protects against H1N1 and 2 other influenza viruses Flu season begins in October and peaks in January. Influenza viruses mutate from year to year and scientists must adjust the recipe of the vaccine annually to ensure effectiveness.

Influenza, commonly called, “flu,” is spread primarily when droplets expelled during

Lori Boyajian O'Neill Sports and wellness Dr. Lori Boyajian-O’Neill can be contacted at lori.boyajian-oneill@hcahealthcare.com. coughing or sneezing are inhaled by those lucky enough to be nearby – a gift from a friend or co-worker. Thank you.

One is contagious even one day before symptoms develop and for five to seven days after noticing symptoms. You may be spreading influenza and not even know you are sick!

Food Inspections l Jackson County The Jackson County Public Works/Environmental Health Division conducts inspections anywhere food is handled, prepared and served to the public for cities other than Independence.

Blue Springs

■ Sheridan’s Frozen Custard, 200 N. Missouri 7 – On Sept. 14, inspectors found no detectable chlorine sanitizer in the dish machine.

Greenwood

■ Perazelli’s/Petit Four, 509 W. Main St. – On Sept. 16, inspectors observed there was no hand washing sink in the upstairs kitchen.

Lee’s Summit

■ Houlihan’s Restaurant and Bar, 625 N.W. Murray Road – On Sept. 15, a drink container on the cook’s line was found without a lid or straw, corrected.

■ La Fuente, 917 N.E. Woods Chapel Road – On Sept. 16, inspectors found the reach-in cooler in server station was 71 degrees. In addition to milk, there were containers of non-dairy whipped topping

Fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches and severe fatigue are common symptoms. Not all will have a fever. Vomiting and diarrhea may be present but are usually seen only in children.

Flu can cause life-threatening illness especially in those younger than 5, older than 65 and pregnant women. Those who are pregnant should get vaccinated if they do not have any disqualifying conditions such as egg allergy.

There is no threat to the health of the fetus, and severe illness during pregnancy can lead to serious complications. Those with medical conditions such as asthma, emphysema and diabetes are at greater risk of serious illness from flu.

This year, as last, there are two types of immunizations, the “flu shot” and the nasal mist (FluMist®). The shot is the most widely used. It has killed virus and is recommended for those over age 6 months and those with serious medical conditions. The nasal mist contains live, but weakened virus, and is rec-

ommended for those aged 2 to 49 years without serious medical conditions and those who are not pregnant. The body responds to the vaccine by making antibodies to fight the 3 strains of influenza. Immunity is developed about 2 weeks after vaccination.

The vaccine is manufactured using chicken eggs. Therefore, those with egg allergies should not be immunized. Those younger than 6 months of age or who have had a previous reaction to the vaccine should also not be immunized. Those with moderate or severe illness with fever should wait until recovered to be immunized.

Many clinics are now offering influenza vaccines. Don’t be a carrier and don’t be a victim. Get immunized. Contact your local public health department or www.cdc.gov/flu for more information.

Answers 1. T 2. F 3. T

JACKSON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

stored in this cooler as well, both were discarded.

Lone Jack

■ 50 Roadside Cafe, 100 E. Missouri 50 – On Sept. 15, inspectors found chili and other potentially hazardous foods in the steam table were 90-130 degrees. These foods were not reheated to 165 degrees before being put into the steam table, corrected. Raw whole shell eggs and liquid egg on a cart in the kitchen, under no form of temperature control, had internal temperatures of 61-72 degrees, these items were discarded.

■ Smoken BBQ, 37905 E. Missouri 50 – On Sept. 16, inspectors observed the establishment had no hand sink conveniently accessible to the food service area.

Raytown

■ The Bickering Tree, 10012 E. 63rd St. – On Sept. 15, inspectors found standing water and a soaked rag next to a drain pipe in the men’s toilet room. Repair so that waste water is properly disposed.

– Jillayne Ritchie

FLU SHOT CLINIC Paul Consiglio Education Center 1501 NW Jefferson, Blue Springs, MO

Wednesday, October 6, 2010 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Children 3 to 18 yrs. - Free

(Please bring immunization records)

Adults 19 yrs. and older - $20

Cash, Visa and Mastercard, check, Medicaid and Medicare Part B accepted.

(Please bring your Medicaid or Medicare Part B ID Card)

For further questions or information, please call Jackson County Health Department

(816)404-6416.

The Jackson County Health Department Clinic will be

HEALTH

closed on this date

Follow Executive Editor Sheila Davis’ journey back into the land of chemotherapy in her blog “Fighting Lymphoma - Round 2” at examiner.net

Sheila Davis

Page 4 Tuesday, September 28, 2010

cover

Better imaging technology means better patient care at Centerpoint

By Michael Glover michael.glover@examiner.net

The more information doctors have, the better patient care they can provide.

High quality images of the body’s insides can help hospitals raise their standards.

Centerpoint Medical Center will soon obtain a new magnetic resonance imaging system that will provide high-resolution images, from sports injuries to

diseases.

The hospital, part of HCA Midwest Health System, received approval from the Missouri Health Facilities Review Committee to install a powerful new MRI system.

Centerpoint held a ribbon-cutting on Sept.

20 at the future spot for the machine.

The new MRI machine,which is made by GE Healthcare, will be two times as powerful as the hospital’s current MRI machine.

“This will give us improved images,” said Linda Dunaway, director of radiology at Centerpoint. “You can see what you’re looking at better.”

That means the new machine uses the latest highdefinition technology to produce terrific, highresolution images.

“It’s state of the art,” Dunaway said.

The machine will be used for neurology, some orthopedic work and cardiac work. The machine will scan images more quickly. It will detect strokes and “map out” parts of the brain for neurosurgeons prior to brain surgery, Dunaway said.

The equipment should be operational by early 2011. The new machine will not replace the current MRI machine.

“It’s an addition,” said Dunaway. “The MRI that we have now, we’ve had to extend working hours and it’s maxed out as far as capacity

goes.”

“This will help us get patients in more quickly by having two MRIs.” There’s no extra space in the hospital for the machine. Workers will build outward adjacent to the emergency department.

“It’s just an addition to the hospital,” said hospital spokeswoman Betty Blackmore. “It will still be accessible from inside the hospital.”

Centerpoint will be the only hospital in Eastern Jackson County to have the type of power the new MRI will bring.

“We are pleased to be the first in our area to offer this latest in MRI technology and to provide the highest quality diagnostic power to our patients and their doctors,” said Centerpoint Chief Executive Officer Carolyn Caldwell in a statement.

“This technology will help us make the right treatment decisions and help patients get well as quickly as possible.”

The hospital will send two technoloMagnetic resonance imaging uses radio gists and a radiologist waves and a strong magnet field rather than to Milwaukee, Wisc., to learn how to operX-rays to produce detailed and cross-sectional ate the new machine. images of the body. MRI uses specialized equipAlso, GE personnel ment and expertise to evaluate body structures will come to the hosthat may not be visible using other imaging pital and set-up the methods. machine and train.

HOW IT WORKS

Submitted photos The new MRI machine at Centerpoint should be operational by 2011. Space constraints mean an addition will have to be built to hold the machine, but it will still be accessible from inside the hospital.

Page 6 Tuesday, September 28, 2010

calendar

healthCALENDAR Items for the Health Calendar may be e-mailed to jill.ritchie@examiner.net or mailed to: The Examiner, P.O. Box 459, Independence, Mo. 64051, attention Jill Ritchie. The following items are for Sept. 29 through Oct. 5, unless otherwise stated.

Spotlights

Blue Springs BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH seminar, 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 5, in the Education Center at St. Mary’s Medical Center. Radiologist Richard Kuckelman, MD, will discuss “A New Look at Breast Health, How MRIs are Used in Breast Cancer Detection. Doors open at 6 p.m. for attendees to enjoy hor d’oeuvres, chair massages and more. Event is free, but registration is required. Call 228-3335.

Independence T.O.P.S. huge sale, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Farview Restoration Church, 24th and Vermont.

PUTTING ON THE PINK – Breast Cancer Awareness event, sponsored by Noland Road Baptist Church, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 8, The Spot, 4420 S. Noland Road (in Noland South Shopping Center).

Guest speaker, Marcia Deitrick from Susan G. Komen.

Activities: Information on awareness, treatment and ways to help others with breast cancer, plus prize drawings, free massages and bone density tests and more. For reservations, call 373-0106 or visit www. nolandroadbaptist.org/women.

Addiction groups

Independence Straight Talk, Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, First Baptist Church.

Narcotics Anonymous Help Line: 531-2250.

Living Free – Al Anon meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 1723 Appleton Ave. 461-0039.

Blue Springs ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, meetings available daily, most sessions are closed, and there are beginner meetings also, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

There is a total of 29 meetings per week. For times, call 471-7229.

CHAPEL HILL AL-ANON, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 9 a.m. Saturday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

BLUE SPRINGS ALATEEN, 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday, 1428-B W. U.S. 40 (behind Betty’s Diner).

Raytown NEW DAY AL-ANON, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Blue Ridge Trinity Lutheran Church. 353-5446.

Independence Health Department. Free. 325-6200.

MATERNITY UNIT TOURS, Centerpoint Medical Center. Call 751-3000 for dates and to register.

Food handler/manager permit training classes, food handler classes, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays at Truman Memorial Building, 1 and 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Independence Health Department. There is a fee.

To register, 325-7803.

Blue Springs EYE GLASSES ADJUSTMENTS, sponsored by Blue Springs Optical, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Vesper Hall.

Break Time Club, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. For older adults with some physical and/or mental limitations. A donation of $10 to the cost of the program is suggested. 228-5300.

Blue Springs Blue Springs/Lee’s Summit Tough Love support group, for families dealing with unacceptable adolescent behavior, 7:30 to 9:40 p.m. Tuesday, First Christian Church. 913-492-1200.

Moms & Moms-to-be prenatal and postnatal class, 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, Family YMCA. 224-9620.

Kansas City Truman Medical Center-Lakewood WIC Nutrition Program, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago. 404-4WIC.

Linda Vargas Independence

“No. They’re incompetent.”

James Kenne “I don’t have any faith in the government. We need to overhaul the system when it comes to food inspections.We need better enforcement.”

Pauline Parrino Independence

“Not really. No.”

– Michael Glover

We’re here for you.

We are a full-line pharmacy with home town values.

Our services include:

• Medication Therapy Management • Immunizer Pharmacy • Health Screenings • Diabetic Shoe Fittings and Shoes Available

50 PLUS PHARMACY 816.461.6546 211 W. Lexington • Independence

Miscellaneous

Independence HEALTH AWARENESS PRESENTATION, 11 a.m.

Tuesday, Palmer Center. Presenter, Susan Laitner, RN,

In light of the massive Iowa egg recall, do you have faith in the FDA’s ability to efficently inspect our food?

Independence

Prenatal/Infant/Child programs

Bereavement groups

Blue Springs Widowed Persons support group, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Annex A. 2240677 or 229-8093.

Independents Singles Ministry grief support group, 7 p.m. Tuesday, First United Methodist Church. 228-3788.

Adult Bereavement support group, sponsored by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. several times throughout the year, Vesper Hall. To register, 655-5490.

Other Infant loss group, sponsored by Carondelet Health. 655-5582.

| Yourtake |

Becky Culbertson, RPH

On the historic Independence Square Mon.-Fri. 9:00-6:00 Sat. 9:00-Noon

Screenings/Immunizations

Independence Evening immunization clinics, 1:30 to 7 p.m.

Monday, Jackson County Health Department, 313 S. Liberty St. 404-6415.

Support groups

Independence Domestic violence group for men, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Family Conservancy of Eastern Jackson County. 373-7577.

GRAY MATTER: Traumatic Brain Injury support group, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Comprehensive Mental Health, Independence. Call Dawn Tish, 254-3652, Ext. 746.

Caring Communities Divorce and Step Family, 6:30 p.m. once a month, days vary, Blue Hills Elementary School. 796-6290.

Blue Springs Overcomer’s Outreach 12-step, 7 to 8 p.m.

Monday, Blue Springs Assembly. 229-3298.

St. Mary’s Medical Center Stroke, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Ponderosa. Call Debbi Riess Roam, 655-5687.

CANCER support group, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, First United Methodist Church, Room 100. Call 2298108.

PARENTS OF NICU BABIES, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, St. Mary’s Birthing Center. Moms delivering at other facilities are welcome. 655-5574, option 5.

Breastfeeding, offered by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 10 a.m. Thursday, 206 Mock Ave., Suite 101.

655-5574.

CHRISTIAN 12-STEP RECOVERY PROGRAM, 7 p.m. Friday, Blue Springs Christian Church. Call Steve, 229-7311, Ext. 243.

Kansas City Prozac survivors, 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Unity Temple on the Plaza. Call A. Bruce Bradshaw, 924-0609.

Celiac Sprue Association of Greater Kansas City, gluten intolerance, 2 p.m. Sunday, St. Joseph Health Center Education Center. 236-9454 or 345-2277.

National Psoriasis Foundation, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Truman Medical Center Lakewood boardroom. Contact, Deborah Kirmse, 254-5850 or 254-4238.

Other Agoraphobia, 7 p.m. 649-9863.

Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse, daily meetings, Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault. 931-4527.

Groups sponsored by Carondelet Health. For the BreathEasy group call 655-5236; and for cancer group call 224-3489.

National Organization of Circumcision Information Resource Center, 913-652-1542 or visit www.nocirc.org.

Weight Management

Independence T.O.P.S. Mo. 291, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Monday, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. 461-0811.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 251, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Maywood Baptist Church. 478-0723 or 252-2392.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 331, 5 p.m. Tuesday, College Park Community of Christ. 254-7075.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 24, 9 a.m. Thursday, New Walnut Park Church. 373-6146 or 650-5262.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 100, 9 a.m. Thursday, Farview Restoration Branch. 356-5278.

Continued on page 7

calendar

Tuesday, September 28, 2010 Page 7

healthCALENDAR Continued from page 6 T.O.P.S., 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Fairmount Community Center. 254-8334.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 892, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church. 356-9219.

T.O.P.S. Mo. 482, 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Calvary Presbyterian Church. 452-3029.

Healthy Reflections, 10 a.m. Thursday, Sermon Center. 325-7370.

Overeaters Anonymous, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Monday, Maywood Baptist Church. Handicap accessible. Call Wanda G., 833-2632.

Love Me Slender, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Van Horn Health Source. 418-4070.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousH.O.W.), 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Unity Church of Independence, 14304 E. 39th St. 1-800-672-6715.

Blue Springs T.O.P.S. Mo. 772, 10 a.m. Tuesday, First Baptist Church West Annex. 228-3741.

SOS (Save-Our-Selves) Weight Management, 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Vesper Hall. Participate in this weight management program and supportive group discussion. Cost, $1 per meeting. 228-0181.

Oak Grove Overeaters Anonymous, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Davis Center. Call Barbara, 229-9524.

Kansas City Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Monday, Ascension Lutheran Church. Shawna, 836-8466.

Lee’s Summit

Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m. Monday, Unity Village, Administrative Building, Room 221. Call Lisa, 833-2636.

CEA-HOW (Compulsive Eaters AnonymousHOW Concept), 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, First Presbyterian Church. Call Lisa at 679-7009 or visit www.ceahow.org.

Raytown Overeaters Anonymous, 4 p.m. Sunday, Quiet House, 65th and Elm. 353-2691.

Other Overeaters Anonymous, a 12-step program for compulsive eaters. 913-383-5933 or www.overeatersanonymous.org.

Women’s Issues

Blue Springs Mom to Mom Lunch Club, a support group for new moms, 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, St. Mary’s Medical Center Professional Building, 300 Mock Ave. 655-5585.

Independence Women’s Empowerment Groups, sponsored by the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA), 6:30 to 8:30 Monday. For locations, call Karen Costa, 252-8388, Ext. 16.

Other Hope House Inc. weekly support groups, open to any female who has been or is now involved in an abusive relationship. For times and location, call the hotline at 461-4673.

– Jillayne Ritchie

healthSHORTS Health Watch: Stepping up your foot care The average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. While this is considered healthy activity, maintaining foot comfort can be a challenge. Whether it’s long days at work or hours spent running errands around town, you’re constantly putting pressure on your feet.

“Fifty percent of adults suffer from tired, achy feet, especially if they have jobs that keep them on their feet all day,” says Dr. Leslie Campbell, a podiatrist and consultant for Dr. Scholl’s. “Many aren’t getting the relief they need, but there are simple ways to help relieve foot discomfort to keep you on your feet longer.”

The American Podiatric Medical Association offers these basic tips to help you treat your feet right:

n Make sure your shoes fit. Try purchasing new shoes later in the day because that’s when feet tend to be at their largest. n It’s important to alternate footwear - don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day.

Office workers should have three to five pairs of shoes on hand for business hours. If you’re working on your feet all day, supportive, cushioned-sole shoes are essential. n Bathe your feet every day in lukewarm water with mild, moisturizing soap.

Other tips to consider can be as simple as being shoe savvy. Replace worn out shoes as soon as possible and think carefully before purchasing new ones that might look great, but provide minimal support or comfort.

Number to Know: 24 According to the National Restaurant Association, 24 percent of American meals are eaten at restaurants.

–GateHouse News Service

Page 8 Tuesday, September 28, 2010

health

healthSHORTS Children’s Health When it comes to ensuring that their babies sleep safely, new parents have to teach grandparents about current safe-sleep practices.

According to a new study conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of HALO Innovations, grandparents are more likely than parents to place babies on their sides or stomachs to sleep, and more likely to place potentially dangerous objects in babies’ cribs. This increases the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and accidental suffocation.

SIDS and accidental suffocation are the leading causes of death for babies younger than 1 year old, claiming the lives of nearly 5,000 babies every year. Since the majority of parents and grandparents surveyed agreed that SIDS is their top concern in raising children, it’s essential that all caregivers follow current guidelines: n Always place babies on their backs to sleep. n Replace loose blankets with a wearable blanket. n Remove pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads and sleep positioners from cribs. n Refrain from sharing your bed or putting

more than one baby in the same crib. n Breastfeed, if possible, and offer a pacifier to babies for sleep (once breastfeeding has been well established).

Senior Health Older people are at high risk for drug toxicity, a gradual buildup of prescription medication in the bloodstream. Symptoms include mental or physical disorientation, dizziness, blurred vision, memory loss and fainting.

Although it is a common and serious condition, it often goes undetected by patients and doctor alike. Drug toxicity can result from a medication dose that is too high or from a person’s ability to metabolize the drug too quickly.

Drug toxicity is “a major public health issue, even for people in their 40s and 50s,” says Mukaila A. Raji, M.D., chief of geriatric medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. “Most drugs are eliminated from the body through the kidneys and liver, but starting around the fourth decade we start accumulating fat and lose muscle mass, accompanied by a progressive decline in the ability of our kidneys and liver to process and clear medications. All of this makes us more

prone to drug toxicity.”

If you lose a substantial amount of weight while taking a prescription medication, there is a good chance that your body no longer needs as high of a dose. Be sure check in with your doctor about your weight loss and ask if your medication doses need to be adjusted.

New Research: Media coverage reduces outbreak stats The media apparently plays a bigger role in maintaining the public’s health than anyone may have thought.

A new study conducted by mathematical biologists at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta and Marshall University in Huntington, W. Va., reveals that the sooner public health officials talk to the media during outbreaks of serious infectious diseases, and the sooner the media reports it to the public, the less the epidemic spreads.

“The more forcefully the media provides information about pandemic infections and deaths, the more the total number of infections is reduced. Media coverage also reduces the maximum number of infections at any par-

ticular time, which is important for allocating the resources needed for treating infectious diseases,” study co-author Howard Weiss, a professor at the Georgia Tech School of Mathematics, said in a news release.

The thinking is that, during scenarios of outbreaks, people closely follow media reports and heed the advice that is offered: get vaccinated, avoid crowds, stay home when possible, wear a face mask, use disinfectants or cancel travel plans.

Weiss and his colleague Anna Mummert, an assistant professor of mathematics at Marshall University, used a modified version of a common infectious disease transmission measurement to create a hypothetical outbreak of Ebola hemorrhagic fever in Huntington.

“On a chart showing the number of infected people at any one time, as you increase the intensity of the media coverage, you substantially decrease the number of infections,” Weiss said.

“We are assuming that people self-isolate at a rate that is proportional to the amount of media coverage, though we would like to study that in more detail.”

–GateHouse News Service

nutrition

Tuesday, September 28, 2010 Page 9

Fuzzy kiwis are delicious, nutritious Looks aren’t everything. Consider the kiwifruit. This small, fuzzy fruit is a nutrition powerhouse, providing good-for-you health nutrients for heart-health, diabetes, the immune system and even vision health.

This sweet, tropical treat is low in calories.

A two-piece serving of kiwifruit has fewer than 100 calories, making it naturally healthy and nutrient-dense.

Below are a few of the health benefits found in kiwifruit. n Vitamin C – A serving of kiwifruit contains more vitamin C than an orange, important for a healthy immune system and a powerful disease-fighting antioxidant. n Potassium – Contains as much potassium as a banana; potassium may help control blood pressure. n Fiber – Two medium kiwifruit provide 4 grams of fiber, helping control blood sugar levels and hunger. Triple the fiber content by eating the skin, which is edible. Just make sure to wash the fruit first. n Lutein – Lutein in found in kiwifruit and has an important role in maintaining vision health.

Tracey Shaffer Food for Thought Tracey Shaffer, RD, LD, is a Hy-Vee dietitian at the Blue Springs location The information provided should not be construed as professional medical advice. E-mail her at 1033dietitian@hy-vee.com. n Vitamin E – Kiwifruit is one of the few fat-free foods that provides the powerful antioxidant vitamin E. One of the perks from eating kiwifruit is the

convenience. The easiest way to eat kiwifruit is to simply cut, scoop and eat. However, the skin on kiwifruit is edible and can boost the fiber content. To prepare a kiwifruit without the skin, cut off each end and slip the knife underneath the brown skin and peel.

Here are 10 ways to add kiwifruit to a healthy diet from Zespri kiwifruit: 1. Straight up! Just cut in half and dig in with a spoon.

2. Gently blend kiwifruit into your favorite smoothie.

3. Top a bowl of granola, oatmeal or yogurt with sliced kiwifruit.

4. Bake gold kiwifruit, mango slices and lowfat cream cheese into whole-grain quesadilla.

5. Add to dessert pizza.

6. Toss into a fruit salad and top with lime juice and ginger marinade.

7. Dice kiwifruit, red onion and jalapeno and serve over salmon or chicken.

8. Stir pieces of kiwifruit, toasted nuts and dried fruit into tabbouleh or couscous.

9. Grill fruit kabobs made with kiwifruit and pineapple, glazed in kiwi-honey marinade.

10. Pack into sack lunches for kids or adults.

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Page 10 Tuesday, September 28, 2010

nutrition

‘Farm-to-fork’ shines light on wheat In D.C., National Mall turns to wheat field for two day event

By Candace Krebs GateHouse News Service

Three days shy of getting next year’s crop in the ground, Chris Tallman took off for Washington, D.C. to see something he sees every day – and doesn’t see every day.

“It’s not every day you get to stand in a wheat field in the middle of The (National) Mall in Washington, D.C.,” the Brandon, Colo., farmer said by cell phone as he arrived in Washington.

Wheat growers from around the country converged in the nation’s capital on Thursday and Friday to assemble and operate a portable urban wheat field -- a massive display that included wheat at all stages of growth, along with a full-size combine and demonstration flour mills.

“We’re calling it a farm-to-fork experience,” said Mike Schulte, executive director of the Oklahoma Wheat Commission, who was also one of roughly 60 wheat representatives arriving from 15 states.

For two days, industry leaders prepared cookies and cinnamon rolls in a mobile bakery, demonstrated the milling process and visited with consumers and legislators about what’s involved in getting wheat from the field to the table. Against the backdrop of a mock grocery store aisle, registered dietitians offered lessons in wheat nutrition, which included how to read

“This is a great opportunity for the wheat industry to enlighten and delight consumers and influencers with our story in a unique, attention-grabbing way.”

David Moore wheat producer

nutrition labels, identify whole grain foods and determine proper serving sizes.

“This is a great opportunity for the wheat industry to enlighten and delight consumers and influencers with our story in a unique, attention-grabbing way,” said David Moore, who produces wheat in Dumas, Texas, and is chairman of the Denver-based Wheat Foods Council. “We’re congregating everything from the farm to the grocery store and placing it in a central location.”

health tip

Try peppermint, water to stop gas Flatulence problems? Try putting a little peppermint into your diet. It has been used for thousands of years to aid digestion and irritable bowel disease, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Peppermint acts by relaxing the muscles that allow the gas to pass through the intestinal tract. The recommended dose is 1 teaspoon. of dry peppermint leaves in 1 cup of boiling water, and let seep for 10 minutes.

GateHouse News Service The Urban Wheat Field, first constructed and displayed in New York City back in the fall of 2008, is being resurrected last week on the Mall in the nation’s capital. Industry officials are using the huge display to explain to consumers and legislators what it takes to get wheat from the seed to the table.

Many growers feel like D.C. is the perfect venue for shining light on the importance of U.S. wheat production.

“We’re going to combine it into a lobbying trip and talk to our legislators about issues like (the conservation reserve program) and the farm bill,” Tallman explained. “I think it will

be a very worthwhile trip.”

The first “urban wheat field” was held two years ago in New York City. Photos and YouTube videos are available on the Wheat Foods Council website at www.WheatFoods.org. The council offers a similar interactive farm-to-fork experience online at www.HowWheatWorks.

nutrition

Tuesday, September 28, 2010 Page 11

Is pork really ‘the other white meat?’

Eating meat is always a personal choice DEAR DR. BLONZ: Is it reasonable to call pork “white meat”? My limited understanding is that red meat is considered red meat due to certain properties that it contains and effects on the body. Red meat has come under such scrutiny in recent years for its negative impact on our health.

I believe that this is the reason for the transformation of pork to a white meat.

I am 28 and have not eaten red meat for over five years due to its unhealthy effects on the body. Isn’t advertising that pork is white meat false advertising? I think it would be of great benefit for your readers if you could explain what makes red meat red, and also if pork qualifies. Thank you

Ed Blonz On Nutrition Ed Blonz, Ph.D., is a nutrition scientist and author. Send questions to: “On Nutrition,” Ed Blonz, c/o Newspaper Enterprise Association, 200 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. E-mail him at ed@blonz.com. in advance for your time and consideration, and keep up the good work. – C.C. DEAR C.C.: Red meat commonly includes beef, lamb and pork. Meat is muscle tissue, and it contains a specialized oxygen-carrying protein known as myoglobin. Active muscles have more myoglobin, and they tend to be darker in color, which explains why the leg and

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thigh meat on a chicken is darker than that the breast. The meat of animals with higher levels of myoglobin in their muscle is called red meat, and pork has traditionally been on the “red” side of the line. The idea of pork as “the other white meat” originated with a successful advertising campaign directed toward consumers that was launched by the National Pork Producers Council in 1986. As for your comment on red meat’s unhealthful effects, it’s the overall quality of our diet that has the greatest sway. Eating meat – of any color – will always be your decision, but it’s a minor point if a balance of other wholesome foods routinely find their way on to your plate.

DEAR DR. BLONZ: My in-laws have convinced my wife that highly alkaline water treats all manner of health issues including cancer. Of course, their machine cost $1,000. I tested the water, and it seems to be soft (no calcium carbonate) yet has a ph of over 9. Please help me blast this balderdash “out of the water,” pun intended.

– J.K. DEAR J.K.: I have no confidence in these machines, and their claims betray logic and

science. Such machines make tap water more alkaline using minerals added or already present in the water. The idea that this water shifts the body’s pH and has beneficial health effects is suspect. Our bodies are designed to maintain pH in a specific range; there are mechanisms designed to accomplish this. Excesses are eliminated whether it is extra acid or extra alkaline. Styles of eating that are unbalanced and heavy on protein and meat can give rise to a greater production of acid substances. These are unhealthful in their own right because such diets do not provide the full complement of nutrients and phytochemicals needed for good health. Adding alkaline water to such an unhealthful style of eating does not counteract the negatives. The ideal is to eat healthfully (i.e., vegetables, fruits, whole grains) and in such situations, there is no evidence that the extra “alkaline water” will do anything significant but drain your pocketbook. Finally, consider that alkaline water is common throughout the Western United States, but to my knowledge it has not protected anyone from the diseases and disorders that occur elsewhere in the country. I hope this helps.

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