Health by The Examiner

April 12, 2011

Health The Examiner

• TRACEY SHAFFER

Asparagus packs nutritional punch | Page 12

Making a difference Doctors like Gay Purcell volunteer countless hours at Shared Care Free Clinic – Page 9

• LARRY JONES Cut the salt | Page 4

• FITNESS 2-3 • WELLNESS 4-8 • CALENDAR 10-11 • NUTRITON 12

Page 2 Tuesday, April 12, 2011

fitness

Food safety inspections l Independence The City of Independence Environmental Health Division conducts inspections anywhere food is handled, prepared and served to the public within city limits. Critical violations must be handled within 72 hours. ■ Golden Super Buffet, 2931 S. Noland Road – On March 28, inspectors found raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food in all of the cooling units. Rice cookers were found sitting directly under the soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser in the Sushi Bar. No soap was found at any of the kitchen hand sinks, and no hand washing was observed. No paper towels were found at the hand sink by the walk-in coolers, and spoons and steel

wool were found in the basin of the wait-staff hand sink. Steel wool was also found in the basin of the Mongolian barbecue hand sink. A wiping cloth was found in the hand sink basin at the Sushi Bar. All hand sinks must be used for hand washing only. All of the above violations were corrected. The bottom of the back door was found with a large gap from the bottom and the floor. This allows pests a possible entrance, a proper door sweep must be installed. ■ 54th Street Grill & Bar, 18700 E. 38th Terrace – On March 29, inspectors observed that the paper towel dispenser was empty in the patio bar area; corrected. – Jillayne Ritchie

Food safety 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.

Lee’s Summit

■ McDonald’s, 900 N.E. Langsford Road – On March 28, an employee beverage was observed in the ice machine; corrected.

■ Mr Goodcents, 705 S.E. Melody Lane – On March 29, inspectors found food containers, lids and the meat slicer were not sanitized after being washed; corrected. There was no sanitizer available for use at the establishment. Containers of bleach were purchased and brought to the establishment to correct the issue. – Jillayne Ritchie

Stock.xchange photo One hour of walking can increase your life expectancy by two hours and help reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems.

Walking can increase heart health

Reduce your risk with 150 minutes every week

By Carrie Skogsberg GateHouse News Service

The American Heart Association wants to remind you of a cheap, easy way to exercise and spend still time with your family: walking. Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 killers of Americans, but walking for just one hour can increase your life expectancy by two hours. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week to maintain a healthy heart. That means, for at least 150 minutes each week, you can enjoy the great spring weather with your family and friends. And if Mother Nature doesn’t want to cooperate, try taking a few laps inside a mall or local gym. Over 65 percent of Americans are overweight, and walking is a great way to combat obesity. Walking for just 30 minutes per day can: n Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease n Improve blood pressure and blood-sugar levels n Improve blood lipid profile n Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity n Enhance mental well-being n Reduce the risk of osteoporosis n Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer n Reduce the risk of non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetes

Looking for a way to fit in a walk during the workday? Try scheduling a “walk and talk” meeting instead of sitting in a stuffy boardroom, or visit a local walking path with a friend over your lunch hour. Walking is safe for most people, but you may want to check with your physician if you’ve haven’t been physically active. You should definitely seek medical advice if: n Your doctor has recommended only medically supervised physical activity n You’ve experienced chest pain in the past month n You’re experiencing any pain or pressure anywhere in your body n You tend to lose consciousness or experience dizziness Hit the ground running with a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers. Here are some tips: n Choose shoes with thick, flexible soles that cushion your feet and absorb shock for the rest of your body. n Make sure your shoes fit comfortably, and buy the right size. n Replace your shoes every six months, even if they still look nice. You’ll want shoes that provide full support in the soles to protect your joints and arches as you walk. n Need some easy ways to rack up the walking steps? Try parking farthest away in the parking lot, and take the stairs instead of the elevator. Every little bit helps!

Tuesday, April 12, 2011 Page 3

fitness

How to stay fit while traveling By Molly Suhadolnik | GateHouse News Service

raveling can be of a setback to your health and fitness. You don’t have access to your normal food, your normal gym, workout partner or surroundings. But with the proper planning, you can travel and keep on track to meeting your health and fitness goals. Do your research. Use the Internet to research gyms in the area to which you will be traveling. Look for a hotel near your gym so you have no excuse not to work out. If you will not have time to go to a gym, check out what the hotel offers in the fitness room. Usually it is next to nothing, so call and ask to be sure they aren’t making what they have look better than it really is.

Bring your own equipment. Sometimes hotel fitness rooms just won’t cut it. Bring a jump rope with you. They are easy to carry and are a great source of conditioning. If you are driving to your destination, bring a pair of dumbbells or a kettle bell. Both are versatile and offer lots of moves. Use your body and surroundings. This one requires nothing but yourself and some space. You can always run outside, run stairs, do push-ups, sit-ups, body squats, etc. Find things in your hotel room or the fitness room that you can use. Use a chair for some tricep dips or to elevate your feet for harder pushups. Kick up to a wall and work on handstand holds for an unbeliev-

able upper-body workout. Use your space and do some walking lunges, or find a step to do jumps on. Pack workout clothes. This one may seem like common sense, but it could really hinder you if forgotten. Bring plenty of clothes, socks and tennis shoes. Pack healthy food. Eating out for every meal can get boring and tricky when trying to stick to your goals. You never know what things are cooked in, and they can be loaded with salt or sugar without you knowing. Food items that can last and are easily portable in a cooler include hard-boiled eggs, chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, carrots, sliced peppers, cucumber, raw broccoli/cauliflower, canned olives, macadamia nuts and hazelnuts. These foods are not only portable, they are very nutritious. Bring pre- and post-workout food. Before and after a

workout, you need to eat properly to give yourself fuel and replenish what you lost. Pre-workout food should be about 1.5 ounces of lean meat and a few nuts or olives (protein and fat only). This preps the body’s insulin for a workout. Post-workout food should be starchy carbs (15-35 grams) and about 3 ounces of protein (no fat). Use baby food sweet potatoes post-workout. No cooking required, and it’s cheap, portable and tasty. Bring water. It is very important to stay hydrated, and it is easy to skimp on when traveling. Bring a few filled water bottles to sip on all day.

Health watch

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Kids’ health

Car-seat rules advice The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to keep their toddlers in rear-facing car seats until age 2, or until they reach the maximum height and weight per the car seat instructions. It also advises that most children will need to ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until they have reached 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between 8 and 12 years of age. Children should ride in the rear of a vehicle until they are 13 years old. A 2007 study in showed that children under age 2 are 75 percent less likely to die or be severely injured in a crash if they are riding rear-facing.

health tip

How to do bicep curls senior health

Potential cancer breakthrough Researchers appear to have found a new way to significantly shrink pancreatic tumors by targeting the tissue surrounding cancer rather than the cancer itself. The approach relies on an experimental antibody that sparks the patient’s own immune system into shredding the structural “scaffolding” that holds tumors together. Although testing has so far been confined to laboratory mice and a small group of patients who have since relapsed, preliminary results caught the researchers by surprise.

“Until this research, we thought the immune system needed to attack the cancer directly in order to be effective,” said Dr. Robert H. Vonderheide, an associate professor of medicine in the division of hematology/oncology at the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center. “Now we know that isn’t necessarily so ... attacking the dense tissues surrounding the cancer is another approach, similar to attacking a brick wall by dissolving the mortar in the wall.” — U.S. Department of Health

To do a bicep curl, stand with your feet hip-width apart, holding a weight in each hand, palms facing out. Bend your elbows, slowly lifting the weights toward your shoulders, but be sure to keep your elbows tight against your sides and avoid swinging the weights with momentum. The bicep curl machine at your gym will also provide a great upper- arm workout. Aim for three sets of 12 curls. — Life Fitness

Page 4 Tuesday, April 12, 2011

wellness

Cut the excess salt from your diet Did you know?

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n Eating too much salt increases blood pressure by acting like a sponge in the body and holding on to excess fluid. n Most of the salt in your diet comes from foods that might not even taste salty, such as canned vegetables, frozen meals and sodas. n The salt shaker is not the main issue – almost 80 percent of salt is already in the food you buy, particularly in processed and restaurant foods.

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

Hidden sources of salt Salt is hidden in foods you might not expect to be salty; and the salt content of similar items can vary widely. Read nutrition and menu labels to compare sodium levels. Sodium, which is listed on the nutrition facts panel, is the component of salt that raises blood pressure.

What can you do? Small changes can make a big difference in how much salt you eat. Here are practical steps you and your family can take to reduce your salt intake: n Know your recommended limit for daily

sodium intake. Most American adults should consume less than 2,400 milligrams per day. n Choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables rather than canned. n Choose products labeled as “low sodium” or “no salt added.” n Skip the soda. Instead, try flavoring water with lemon, cucumber or fresh mint. n Pay attention to the sodium content of spice and dip mixes, rubs and condiments like salad dressing and BBQ sauce – these often have lots of added salt. n Save the sports drinks for after prolonged, sweat-producing exercise or work.

The salt shaker is not the main issue – almost 80 percent of salt is already in the food you buy, particularly in processed and restaurant foods. These drinks have added sodium to replenish electrolytes lost from sweating. n At restaurants, ask for foods with no or low salt. Better yet, plan ahead and check out the nutrition facts online before heading out to choose your best option. n When cooking at home, use aromatics like garlic, onions and celery to add flavor to dishes. n Experiment with different fresh herbs and salt-free spices like basil, oregano, cumin, paprika, rosemary and red pepper flakes for an added flavor boost. n Read the nutrition facts panel on the foods you buy and choose products that are low in sodium.

healthSHORTS Join the Y for a play date and commit to daily activity The YMCA of Greater Kansas City is encouraging all kids and parents in the area to join the Y April 16 and 17 for a play date and to commit to being active every day. It’s all part of the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day™ – The nation’s largest health day for families. Families can come together for fun games, exercise, healthy snacks and resources for making healthy choices between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday at YMCA of Greater Kansas City locations. Activities are no cost and open to the community. The celebration continues at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, with the Y’s Healthy Kids Day at The K, sponsored by Children’s Mercy Family Health Partners. Before and during the 1:10 p.m. Kansas City Royals game, the Y will have stations along the main concourse and Outfield Experience, where families can get moving together doing simple and fun activities. Discount tickets to the Royals game are available at area Ys through April 13, or online through game day at www.kansascityroyals. com/ymca. A portion of proceeds benefits the

YMCA of Greater Kansas City. The Y recommends five simple activities families can do to play together: 1. Schedule a game night: Play games with the kids that incorporate physical activity, such as charades. 2. Dance, dance: Turn on your favorite party music and dance! 3. Go riding: Find a new bike path or park for a fun afternoon outdoors. 4. Channel your inner youth: Teach your favorite childhood game to your kids and play them together, such as hopscotch, freeze tag and Simon Says. 5. Play outside: Visit your neighborhood park or camp out in your backyard for some outdoor fun. For more information and to find a Y location near you, visit www.KansasCityYMCA. org.

Missouri Senate gives new abortion law first round approval The Missouri Senate gave first round approval to a measure sponsored by Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, that would

change provisions relating to abortions in Missouri with respect to viability. Senate Bill 65 would prevent the abortion of unborn babies of the gestational age of 20 weeks or more that are determined by a physician to be viable outside of the womb. If the unborn child is 20 weeks or more, not determined viable, and an abortion is performed, the bill requires the doctor to submit a report to the Department of Health and Senior Services. Penalties for violating the provisions of this bill would include a Class C felony, and physicians who plead guilty to or are convicted of performing or inducing an abortion in violation of this act could be subject to having their license to practice medicine in Missouri suspended for three years. Also, any hospital or ambulatory surgical center that knowingly violates this act could be subject to suspension or revocation of its license. The bill has advanced to the House for similar consideration and has received a first reading there. To learn more about the bill, visit www. senate.mo.gov. – Jillayne Ritchie

Page 6 Tuesday, April 12, 2011

wellness

Athletes at increased risk of sudden cardiac death

Incidence may be higher than previously thought

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The most difficult aspect of assessing health in an athlete is identifying underlying medical conditions that may lead to sudden death. In a young, seemingly healthy person, the prospect of a life-threatening medical condition seems implausible. Yet every year athletes in organized sports die from sudden cardiac death. SCD is one of the most disturbing aspect of sports medicine.

True or false 1. One in 43,000 collegiate athletes die annually from SCD. 2. Black males are at highest risk of SCD. 3. There is usually no warning for SCD. Most instances of SCD are due to abnormal conduction of the electrical impulses through the heart. In contrast, older persons have “heart attacks” usually because cholesterol plaques or clots block blood vessels. There are often warning signs of underlying serious heart disease. On average, an athlete with SCD has had 2 prior episodes of loss of consciousness or fainting. Often, these episodes are dismissed by the athlete or explained away. The media covers deaths among athletes extensively, and historically researchers relied on these reports when estimating deaths from SCD. When Wes Leonard, the 16-year-old basketball hero from a tiny Northern Michigan school, died on the court a few weeks ago, there were endless loops of reports on network, cable and internet media. Yet, according to a new study in the medical journal Circulation conducted by primary care sports medicine physicians at the University of Washington, at least 40 percent of SCD cases in athletes does not appear in media reports. Their research strongly suggests the incidence rates are much higher than previously estimated. Prior reports indicated that SCD occurred 1 in 300,000 collegiate athletes. New data suggest the incidence is 1 in 43,000. The study further reported that among NCAA Division I men’s basketball players, SCD occurs in 1 in 3,100 players. This is a higher incidence rate than deaths from automobile accidents. These findings carry enormous implications for how athletes are screened for risk factors related to SCD. Should all athletes get an electrocardiogram at the time of their preparticipation examination (PPE), commonly called the “sports physical?” There are some areas where this is exactly what happens. In Phoenix, for example, there is a program that

Lori Boyajian O'Neill Sports and wellness Dr. Lori Boyajian-O’Neill can be contacted at lori.boyajian-oneill@hcahealthcare.com.

routinely uses ECGs during the sports physical to screen for heart disease. Currently there are no agreed upon standards in the United States for mass screening of athletes using ECGs or echocardiograms. By contrast, Italy and other countries require all athletes to have ECGs before being cleared for participation in sport. As a consequence, Italy reports much higher rates of heart disease among young athletes than the United States. The findings presented by these researchers will certainly fuel discussion in academic and clinical arenas about the cost and usefulness of screening all athletes using ECG or other cardiac tools to detect the “needle in a haystack” abnormality, which may portend deadly heart rhythm and sudden death. At the National Collegiate Volleyball Championships last weekend, a 20-year-old man suffered a SCD and was revived by an on-site medical team. This is the most recent case of a collegiate athlete with SCD, but there will be others. Until we have improved methods of screening and heightened awareness of the incidence rates of SCD, there will be more news stories of the profoundly sad kind. The grief of parents and loved ones who have been affected by SCD is immeasurable. The news that SCD occurs more frequently than we thought is frightening. On-site AEDs and trained medical staff at sporting events improve survival rates to be sure. But, an important aspect of preventing SCD is identifying those at risk and intervening before there are lights and sirens. Look for much discussion about how athletes are screened for heart problems as a consequence of this newly reported research.

Answers 1. T 2. T 3. F

wellness

Are parents happier people? It has been said that the happiest day in a parent’s life is the day their child is born. Looking down at the little baby at your side for the very first time, to use teenage lingo, is an awesome experience. You can’t believe that such a living, breathing, angelic infant is yours. But soon, reality sets in. This is not to imply that after those initial halcyon newborn days it’s all downhill as a parent. However, being a parent can be difficult. You learn that your little sleeping angel, when awake, can be very demanding and will let you know his or her displeasure with crying that may never seem to stop. A recent study compared levels of happiness between adults who have children and adults who do not. The adult’s level of happiness was determined at different ages. Although in the early stages of being a parent there are many positive aspects, in this study, the level of happiness in parents younger than 30 decreased with the first and each additional child. For many, the initial euphoria and happiness of being a parent was negated by the reality of caring for the child: less sleep,

Dr. Murray Feingold Dr. Murray Feingold is the physician in chief of The Feingold Center for Children, medical editor of WBZ-TV and WBZ radio, and president of the Genesis Fund. The Genesis Fund is a nonprofit organization that funds the care of children born with birth defects, mental retardation and genetic diseases. which is a big factor, worrying about the child, mundane daily care, always being on duty and financial strain. Parents between ages 30 and 39 who had between one and three children were found to be as happy as their peers who did not have any children.

Parents between ages 30 and 39 who had between one and three children were found to be as happy as their peers who did not have any children.

However, this changed to being less happy when they had four or more children. By the time parents reach 40, they were happier than childless couples — unless, again, they had more than three children. But things change by the time parents reach age 50 or older. At that stage of life, it doesn’t matter how many children they have – parents are more content than couples without children. As one researcher concluded, “Children may be a long-term investment in happiness.”

Tuesday, April 12, 2011 Page 7

Briefly l Health

St. Mary’s hosting health fair, Easter Egg hunt for Family Week St. Mary’s Medical Center kicks off Jackson County Family Week again this year by hosting a free Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, from 9 a.m.-noon. The fun starts with a walk around the fitness track on the St. Mary’s campus with Blue Springs Mayor Carson Ross. There will be free health screenings – blood pressure, blood sugar, foot screening, BMI analysis, balance testing, grip strength testing, bone density; plus a limited number of carotid artery Doppler screenings (sign up early on fair day). Three physicians will make presentations: n 9:15 a.m. – Jeffrey MacMillan, M.D; orthopedic surgeon; “Relief for an Aching Back” n 10:15 a.m. – James McIntosh, M.D.; urologist; “What’s Age Got to Do With It?” n 11:15 a.m. – Daniel Dunker, M.D., FACC; cardiologist; “Yes! You Can Fight Heart Disease” Activities for kids include a moon walk, obstacle course and face painting. An Easter egg hunt, with a visit from the Easter Bunny is at 10 a.m. Call 816-228-3335 for information, or visit stmaryskc.org. – Submitted

health

Page 8 Tuesday, April 12, 2011

number to know

An open package of sliced deli meat can last up to five days in the refrigerator at 40 degrees or below, or up to two months in the freezer at zero degrees or below. — FoodSafety.gov

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Reports l Local law enforcement agencies

Only in The Examiner Want to read weekly police reports for Independence, Blue Springs and Grain Valley, as well as Jackson County Sheriff’s reports? Subscribe to The Examiner.

By Cheryl Herr, R.N. St. Mary’s Medical Center

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Opening its doors in 1987, the Birthing Center at St. Mary’s Medical Center was first of its kind in the state of Missouri. My eldest son was the 12th baby delivered in the unit, an event that had a profound impact not only on my life, but my career as well. I was a nursing student at the time. Enamored with the adrenaline rush of the emergency room, and critical care specialties, I was still undecided about my path in the field, but understood I would need experience to break into many of those roles. The care I received during my delivery at St. Mary’s was among the best I had observed in many hospitals in which I had worked, and suddenly I knew I wanted to be a part of it. The nurse who helped deliver my son and one of its original staff members, Shirley Bulen, encouraged me to apply for an opening in the Birthing Center. I soon left a good day job to work nights at St. Mary’s. If it’s true what they say that one who loves their job never works a day in their life, then I’ve not worked in 21 years. The same can be said of most of the staff at The Birthing Center. Working with the other nurses in the unit over two decades, we’ve come to know each other and what to expect. We train quarterly together with simulators. We celebrate holidays together. We’ve helped deliver each other’s babies (including all six of my children). We even go on vacations together. We’ve developed close relationships with our patients, many of whom have delivered several children at St. Mary’s. We’ve been showered with affection from so many over the years. We’re told it shows on our faces how much we love our jobs. I can’t deny this, for it is a calling and a passion, even through the difficult times. A patient who had lost her baby presented us with Christmas ornaments. That ornament hangs on my tree every year to remind me how

Cheryl Herr, R.N. GUEST COLUMN Cheryl Herr is a registered nurse at the St. Mary’s Medical Center Birthing Center.

precious life is, and my connection to those coming into the world. The Birthing Center at St. Mary’s is a fantastic facility. Our moms labor, deliver, recover and have their postpartum period in the same room. They have “room-service-quality” meals, in-room Jacuzzis, and a kitchen with snacks available any time. Our level II neonatal intensive care unit is staffed by neonatal nurse practitioners from Children’s Mercy Hospital 24/7 providing specialized care should there be unexpected complications or a preterm delivery. Our NICU cares for babies from 32 weeks gestation. And St. Mary’s families of babies in the NICU can stay in boarding rooms, right on the unit until their newborns can go home. The Birthing Center at St. Mary’s uses a family-centered approach to obstetrics care. It’s an approach that starts with our nursing staff. This staff with which I’m proud to be associated has earned the Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the nation’s leading credentialing organization. Someday I’d like to have a T-shirt made. Along with the St. Mary’s Birthing Center logo, it would say: “The best experience of my life could be yours. Ask me about it.”

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Tuesday, April 12, 2011 Page 9

health professional profile

About Dr. Gay Purcell:

“She’s vivacious and positive. She does a great job of finding successes among our patients. She is just so easy to work with and makes everyone on the team feel like they are making great contributions. Her patients work really hard for her, and because of that, they have a lot of great successes.”

Age: 38 Residence: Independence Volunteers at: Shared Care Free Clinic in Independence. Purcell also volunteers answering phones for pledge drives at 89.3 KCUR-FM, as well in various charity causes in Eastern Jackson County. For how long? More than 10 years Day job: Internal medicine doctor at Mid America Internal Medicine on Noland Road

Volunteerism is as much a part of Dr. Gay Purcell’s life as her full-time career as an internal medicine doctor in Independence. In a conversation with Purcell, her energy appears boundless, a smile stretching across her face as she shares the story of how she started more than 10 years ago as a volunteer with what is now known as the Shared Care Free Clinic. Independence internal medicine specialist Dr. Bridget McCandless co-founded the clinic with Dr. Dan Purdom in April 2000 as a means to help uninsured adults with chronic illnesses and diseases. On any given fourth Tuesday at the clinic, Purcell will see between 11 to 17 patients in her three hours of volunteerism. She treats a range of chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, depression, fibromyalgia and others. McCandless was recently hired parttime at the clinic and it employs a fulltime clinic coordinator, but it relies mainly on volunteers, including doctors, nurses and support staff. On April 30, Purcell and other Shared Care Free Clinic volunteers will celebrate with a luncheon at Christ United Methodist Church in Independence. National Volunteer Week also is this week through Saturday.

How did your involvement with the Shared Care Free Clinic begin? Dr. McCandless – and this was over 10 years ago – put out a request for people that wanted to volunteer. I called her up, and I’ve been volunteering ever since. Because I have the same crew there every

–Dr. Bridget McCandless, co-founder of the Shared Care Free Clinic

The Examiner/ADAM VOGLER Dr. Gay Purcell volunteers at the Shared Care Free Clinic of Jackson County, 17611 E. U.S. 24, Suite 103.

fourth Tuesday, I think one of my nurses tabulated it, and I think we’ve donated more than 1,200 hours now.

Why did you want to volunteer and give back to the community? You know, there is a huge need for it. There is a certain part of medicine that you just do because you love it and you want to help people. Sure, it’s a business, but it’s kind of a tragedy, too, when you have someone that you see here in the regular office that has insurance, and all of a sudden, they get laid off. They are scared, and they don’t have any insurance, and they’re about to lose their doctor that they’ve known forever. It’s really nice to have a place for them to go where they can still see the same doctor. I don’t charge them there – I see them for free – and then when they have insurance and they get a job again, they come back to my regular office. But, there are people out there that I’ve been seeing for 10 years, and they’ve never had insurance. A lot of them are people that work really hard. The people at the free health clinic make too much

money for Medicaid. A lot of times, they work two or three different jobs, all parttime, but with no benefits. I think a lot of young people can relate to having a lot of part-time jobs with no benefits whatsoever.

What role do you believe volunteerism plays in your life? For me, it’s something that’s fun, but you also get a lot back from it. People are really appreciative. Also, the people you are with makes it so worth it, just to surround yourself with people that are like-minded and like doing things just for the good of doing it. You’re not going to find a lot of grumpy people working at the free health clinic because no one there is getting paid. We’re all there because we want to, so every time you go, it’s lots of fun. You know you’re doing something good for a gap of people that’s really missed by health care in this society.

Do you think there will always be a need for places like the Shared Care Free

Clinic?

I hope there’s not always a need for it. I really hope that there becomes less of a need for it as people are able to afford insurance better or maybe there is more assistance for people. So, I hope there’s not as much of a need as there is now, but unfortunately, right now, there is a huge need.

How can others get involved? We have a lot of lay people that aren’t medical people that just come help in the office and help count pills, so you don’t have to be medically trained to volunteer at the free health clinic. They can go to the website, www. jcfhc.org, and they can click on a link to donate or they can click on a link if they are a volunteer. – Adrianne DeWeese

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Yourtake Does donating time and resources to a specific cause promote good health? Why or why not?

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 April 13 through 19.

Spotlights

LISA CAMPBELL Shawnee Mission “Yes, I'm sure it does. I think it promotes a sense of well being and being altruistic makes you happier.”

LYDIA JETER Blue Springs “I think that when you're involved in the community, like I have, it makes you a better person. The Rainbow Center has helped me. I feel better in the morning and I wake up and think, 'Let me be a blessing for someone.' ”

Blue Springs FREE HYPNOSIS SEMINARS – Stop Smoking from 6:30 to 8 tonight; Weight Loss Management from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, A Healthy Change Hypnotherapy, 1133 W. Main St., Suite 203. To register, call Mike at 816-560-6903. Independence ALTER’S GEM fundraiser, sponsored by Centerpoint Medical Center Auxiliary, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, outside the hospital’s cafeteria, 39th Street and Jackson Drive. There will be a quality line of jewelry, watches, colored gemstones, purses and baby goods for sale. Proceeds will be used to provide scholarships to students pursuing a medical career and to charities in Eastern Jackson County. BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Noland Road Hy-Vee, U.S. 40 and Noland Road. Jamie, your Hy-Vee dietitian, will be available during this time to give you a free blood pressure reading and discuss nutrition tips to lower your blood pressure. Just stop by the table. Raytown TAI CHI FOR OSTEOPOROSIS, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesdays, tonight through May 17, Southwood Elementary School, 8015 S. Raytown Road. Learn ways to build strength, improve balance, prevent falls and slow down bone loss. Cost, $40. To register, call 816-268-7027. Oak Grove Jackson County Health Department Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, 9 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays through May 18, Oak Grove Senior Center. Program address arthritis, diabetes, lung and heart disease, but teaches skills useful for managing a variety of chronic diseases. Call 816-690-8462 to register.

Addiction groups michael huffman Blue Springs “Absolutely it does. Our son is in the Rainbow Center and it's helped us a lot, especially in connecting with other people, which makes us happier..” – Jeff Martin

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 228-7921. 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.

Bereavement groups

Blue Springs Widowed Persons support group, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Annex A. 224-0677 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. Lee’s Summit Grief discussion group, 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Lee’s Summit Christian Church. Other Infant loss group, sponsored by Carondelet Health. 655-5582.

Fitness

Independence Gentle Tai Chi for those 50 and older, 6 p.m. Monday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200. LOW IMPACT EXERCISE, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Fairmount Community Center. 254-8334. Wake Up Workout, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. 325-6200. Walk to the Beat, 8 a.m., MondayFriday, Fairmount Community Center. 2548334. PEPPI exercise classes, 10:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. Free. To register, 325-6200. PAVEMENT POUNDERS 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, Friday, The Palmer Center. 325-6200. SITTIN’ FIT chair exercises class,

10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200. STRETCH AND TONE, 9 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, The Palmer Center. Cost, $1. 3256200. ZUMBA GOLD, dynamic workout to Latin and international rhythms, 10 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Palmer Center. Cost, $2. 325-6200. TAI CHI by the Three Dragons Way, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sermon Center. Cost, $35 for a four-week session; $40 for a 5-week session. 325-7370. WALK TO THE BEAT, 2 to 3 p.m. Friday, The Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200. Blue Springs Swimnastics, 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday; 8 to 9 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 228-0137. Therapeutic swim, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 2280137. Crosstrainer aerobics, 9 to 10 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Vesper Hall. 228-0181. Prenatal and postnatal exercise classes, 9:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 300 N.W. Mock Ave. 655-5400. Weight room for ages 50 and older, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $10 per month; $2 per visit; $96 for a year. 228-0181. Yoga — For beginners and beyond, 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50 per class. 228-0181. YOGA-GENTLE FLOW, 6:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $8 per visit, $48 for six classes. 228-0181. Tai Chi, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50. 228-0181. Stretching exercise, 10 to 11 a.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $1.50. 228-0181. ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM for older adults, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Wednesday and Friday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $1 per session. 228-0181. Stretch AND TONE, 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Vesper Hall. Cost, $2.50. 228-0181. AQUA-AEROBICS, noon to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Centennial Pool-Plex. Cost, $3.75 per visit. 228-0137. Raytown Tai Chi, 11 a.m. Thursday, Elliott Place Retirement Community. Free. 313-6800. Kansas City WALK AND TALK, 7 to 10 a.m. Monday-Friday, Ascension Lutheran Church,

Tuesday, April 12, 2011 Page 11

health

healthCALENDAR 4900 Blue Ridge Blvd. 358-1919. PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise), 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Truman Medical Center-Lakewood. 373-4415, Ext. 1175.

Miscellaneous

Independence 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. Salvation Army Seeing Help (SASH), 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, The Salvation Army building. There will be games, speakers or descriptive video movies, plus a meal. 461-4869 or 373-3363. Blue Springs 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.

Prenatal/Infant/Child programs

Independence WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 4046460 or 257-2335. Blue Springs WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 2201007. 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. Natural family planning session, 7 p.m. Thursday, St. Mary’s Medical Center. Fee. For reservations, 913-384-1000. Kansas City WIC NUTRITION PROGRAM, for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or gave birth less than six months ago, 4049740 or 923-5800.

Screenings/Immunizations Independence

Blood pressure for those 50 and older, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200. Blood pressure checks for those 50 and older, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Palmer Center. Free. 325-6200.

Support groups

Independence Domestic violence group for men, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Family Conservancy of Eastern Jackson County. 373-7577. Parkinson’s, 3 p.m. Tuesday, The Fountains at Greenbriar. Call Desiree Rogers at 257-5100. Caregivers SUPPORT GROUP, 2 p.m. Thursday, Centerpoint Medical Center Cafeteria, private dining room. Call 6987584 to register. CHADD – Parents of Children with Attention Deficit Disorder, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Trails West Library. Call Teresa, 796-3659.

Parkinson’s disease, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sermon Center. 252-4987. 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. CANCER support group, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, First United Methodist Church, Room 100. Call 229-8108. Caregivers, sponsored by Shepherd Center of Blue Springs, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Timothy Lutheran Church. 228-5300. Alzheimer’s, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, St. Mary’s Manor. 228-5655. 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.

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Breastfeeding, offered by St. Mary’s Medical Center, 10 a.m. Thursday, 206 Mock Ave., Suite 101. 655-5574. Holding on to Hope, for parents who have had a child die, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, every other month, Timothy Lutheran Church. Call Nancy Nowiszewski, 228-5300, Ext. 320. CHRISTIAN 12-STEP RECOVERY PROGRAM, 7 p.m. Friday, Blue Springs Christian Church. Call Steve, 229-7311, Ext. 243. Lee’s Summit Stroke, 1 p.m. Wednesday, Lee’s Summit Hospital. 969-6900. Diabetes, sponsored by Lee’s Summit Hospital Health Connection, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Lee’s Summit Christian Church. 5249416 or 347-0147. Alzheimer’s and dementia, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Village Care Center Conference Room. Call Elisabeth Tyler, 347-2491. Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, every other month, Lee’s Summit Hospital. 753-2220. Kansas City EMPOWER KIDNEY DISEASE CLASSES, 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through 2011, at several area hospitals. Call 842-0076 to register.

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. La Leche League of Blue Springs, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Parkview Church. For breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women interested in breastfeeding. Call Kayl, 254-5992 or Stephanie, 8330250. Independence La Leche League, Jackson County A.M. Group, 10 a.m. Thursday, Trails West Public Library. For breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women interested in breastfeeding. Call Kayl, 254-5992. 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

Page 12 Tuesday, April 12, 2011

nutrition

Asparagus is sign of spring, nutritious Enjoy these low-calorie preparations A sure sign of spring in the grocery store is the arrival of fresh asparagus. Asparagus has an impressive list of nutritional benefits as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and folic acid. It is also one of the best sources for the powerful antioxidant glutathione. Asparagus has all this nutritional arsenal for very few calories. Asparagus should be cooked quickly, such as steamed, microwaved or oven-roasted.

Top ways to enjoy asparagus

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.

Toss it in. Add 1-inch pieces of asparagus spears to a pot of quinoa or rice pilaf about 5 to 7 minutes before it is cooking. The asparagus will gently steam while the grains finish cooking. Simple, yet tasty. There is almost nothing simpler than grilled or roasted asparagus! Toss with a little extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt and black pepper and spread on the grill or roast in a 450 degree oven on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, turning often for even browning. Flavor with chopped fresh parsley, freshly grated lemon zest and/or Parmesan or Romano cheese. Wrap it up. Use smoked turkey (instead of bacon) to wrap up a few spears of asparagus. Sprinkle with grated lemon or orange zest and the freshly squeezed juice, along with a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or broil for 10 minutes, turn-

ing halfway through cooking time.

Lemon lover’s asparagus 2 bunches asparagus, tough ends trimmed 2 lemons, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 4 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. 2. Toss asparagus, lemon slices, oil, oregano, salt and pepper on a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast, shaking the pan occasionally to toss, until the asparagus is tender-crisp, 13 to 15 minutes. Per serving: 91 calories, 7 g fat; 9 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein, 4 g fiber, 302 mg sodium.

Eat good food even when you work long hours DEAR DR. BLONZ: I work long hours, and I often have to work through lunch. This means there is no reliable time at which I can eat. By the time hunger overtakes me, I find myself eating here and there only to realize that by the end of the day, I’ve had nothing good to eat. I realize that this is not the best of situations, but the job is essential, and I have no real alternatives. What types of meals or snacks do you recommend? – L.L., San Jose, Calif. DEAR L.L.: This an all-too-common situation, and it speaks to the uncomfortable situation many find themselves in as they work their way through the day. If you are eating only as a means to satisfy hunger, the healthfulness of the meals is likely to be less of a priority. Rushing through the day and grabbing a bite on the run puts you at the mercy of convenience and fast-food establishments that cater to this lifestyle. The fact that there

are so many out there reflects the increasing number of people who find themselves in this situation. Food outlets have been responding to the increased interest in health by offering

more nutritious food selections. Often, all you need to do is think ahead about your meals and where you wish to eat. Planning can make the difference between having what you want and settling for what’s quick and available. The most important place to start is breakfast. Studies have shown that those who begin their day with a good breakfast consistently outperform those who ignore the morning meal. Ask yourself what you would like to have for lunch or snack during the upcoming days and weeks and then take steps to have those foods available. At work, find out whether there’s a refrigerator you can use to store fresh foods. If not, there are refrigerated containers that can keep things cool from home until lunchtime. Keep a supply of nutritious snacks, such as fresh or dried fruits, nuts and seeds, cut-up vegetables or low-fat yogurt, to help you avoid being forced to choose from a vending machine that’s bereft of anything good to eat. If you frequently eat out, find restaurants that offer salad bars, vegetarian entrees, lean-meat

sandwiches and other healthful fare. Even if your days are stressful, your mealtimes should serve as a change-of-pace break. You’ll find yourself returning to the previous activity more refreshed and better able to focus on the rest of the day. DEAR DR. BLONZ: Regarding your recent column on dental health I wanted to add one important personal-hygiene step to your answer on nutritional advice for healthy teeth. Beyond regular brushing and daily flossing, I use a gum pick three times a week. I’m amazed at the amount of plaque that I find on the teeth gum lines with the pick despite a thorough brushing. Many thanks for your continuing nutritional advice. – T., via e-mail DEAR T: Thank you for this. The American Dental Association recommends floss as well as gum picks, also known as interdental cleaners. There is a good discussion at tinyurl. com/2dexam9. It is important to get the job done and make it a part of your daily routine.

for area residents, GriefShare. Sessions will begin April 27 and will be held each week from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the hospital auditorium, 19600 E. 39th St., Independence. GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what

participants are going through and want to help. Participants will gain access to valuable GriefShare resources to help them recover from their loss and look forward to rebuilding their life. GriefShare video seminars feature interviews with leading authors, counselors,

speakers and pastors with years of expertise in grief recovery. For more information about GriefShare at Centerpoint Medical Center, contact Teri Ackerson, RN, at 816-698-8099. – Jillayne Ritchie

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.

Briefly l Health

Centerpoint Medical Center begins offering new grief group Centerpoint Medical Center will begin offering a new grief recovery support group