SI Health Mag November 2009

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Nov. 18, 2009 Vol. 5, No. 2

Publisher

Dennis M. DeRossett Executive Editor

Gary Metro Editor

Cara Recine Advertising Director

Abby Hatfield

618-351-5024 • abby.hatfield@thesouthern.com Marketing

Brian Flath

618-351-5027 • brian.flath@thesouthern.com Art Direction/Design/Production

Rhonda M. Ethridge

rhonda.ethridge@thesouthern.com Circulation/Database Marketing Coordinator

Kathy Kelton 618-351-5049

Online Coordinator

J. C. Dart

jennifer.dart@thesouthern.com

The Southern Health Magazine is a monthly publication of The Southern Illinoisan. Contact us via mail at 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901, or at PO Box 2108, Carbondale, IL 62902. Copyright 2008 by The Southern Illinoisan. The Southern Illinoisan (USPS 258-980) is owned by Lee Enterprises, Inc. of Davenport, Iowa. All rights reserved. For more information call 618-5295454 or 618-997-3356, or visit us online.

COVER STORY EVERY ISSUE Cover Story Every Issue

710 N. Illinois Ave. Carbondale, Illinois 62901 618-529-5454 • 800-228-0429 fax 618-529-3774 www.thesouthern.com/health

NOV. 18, 2009 In This Issue Exercise your right Live free from diabetes by including a regular fitness routine

Welcome!

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SI Health News 3 Upcoming Events 4 Health News 6 Senior Health 7 Kids Health 11 Diet and Chronic Pain 12 Pet Health 13 Her Health 14 His Health 15

So many things we write about in this magazine come down to two principles: Get or stay active and eat a nutritionally balanced diet. It’s no different when dealing with diabetes, the topic of our cover story. In mid-October, I got a call from Mike Baltz, manager of Gold’s Gym in Carbondale, who was eager to tell me about an event the chain of gyms was sponsoring across the country. Metro The event was designed to make people with diabetes aware of the benefits of regular exercise. The Carbondale gym was the site of the event earlier this month, which is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Baltz is passionate about spreading the positive effects of exercise, especially for diabetics. He helped put us in touch with sources for the story. Bob Dickerson of Marion was diagnosed at age 21 with Type I diabetes. His doctor advised him to stay active, which he has done. Today, 31 years Recine later, he’s a healthy runner who has managed to keep the disease from progressing. Whatever you do, make it fun. And it doesn’t have to consume hours out of your day. Find out just what you can do to keep the disease away or be well, if you already have it. Read the story, which begins on Page 8. During an e-mail exchange with another of our Health Magazine writers, William Atkinson, I learned about chronic inflammation. The disorder is complicated, but one thing has been shown to be true: Certain foods can bring on pain or lessen it. Read Atkinson’s informative and detailed piece; it begins on Page 12. And one last thing: Always check with your physician before making changes in your diet or fitness program. It’s important for many reasons, so make sure a chat with your doctor is the first step you take toward improved health. – Cara Recine

Comments and suggestions?

We look forward to hearing from you. Send an e-mail to HEALTH@thesouthern.com For the latest health and fitness news, pick up Tuesday’s Southern Illinoisan for Mind & Body news. Check out www.thesouthern.com/lifestyles for more features.

Tell your story and ask your questions at www. thesouthern.com/SIForums.

Health Alliance _________________________ 3 www.healthalliance.org • 800-851-3379

Liberty Village of Marion__________________ 16 www.libertyvillageofmarion.com • 618-993-8600

Dr. Daniel Brown _______________________ 14 618-988-6034

Heritage Woods of Benton _________________ 5 618-439-9431

Rehab & Care of Jackson County _____________ 11 618-684-2136

Dr. Michael Lawler _______________________ 5 www.drmichaellawlermd.com • 618-993-1111

Heritage Woods of Mount Vernon ___________ 10 618-532-4590

Southern Illinois Psychiatry________________ 14 www.southernillinoispsychiatry.com • 618-998-0888

Family Foot & Ankle Center _________________ 6 618-942-3334

Hughes Dental Arts Centre _________________ 6 www.southernilsmilecenter.com • 618-993-3100

Sterling Mattress Factory __________________ 7 618-988-8888

Graham Family Medicine __________________ 13 618-998-9200 2 n The Southern HEALTH Magazine n Nov. 18, 2009

Liberty Village of Carbondale _______________ 7 www.simplythefinest.com • 618-351-6557

Vivatek Treatment Center _________________ 11 www.vivatek.com • 618-997-5727

INDEX OF Advertisers

Diabetes and Endocrine of So. Illinois _________ 11 618-988-1877

SI health news Burke Dermatology opens

Burke Dermatology recently expanded and opened a facility at 3022 S. Park Ave. in Herrin. Its main office is at 19 E. Shawnee Drive in Murphysboro. Dr. W. Sean Burke, owner, is a native of Murphysboro. He is committed to the study and treatment of all dermatologic diseases, and he is particularly interested in skin cancer and dermatologic surgery. He received his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and his medical degree from the University of Illinois School of Medicine. He completed his dermatology residency at SIU Springfield. The Herrin office, as well as the Murphysboro office, can be reached at 618687-3376 and burkederm.com.

Hospital receives high rank

Orthopedic surgery at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau has been ranked among the top 10 percent in the nation by a new study released last week by HealthGrades, the leading independent health care ratings organization. The HealthGrades study evaluates objective patient outcomes in the nation’s 5,000 hospitals. As a result, Saint Francis received the 2010 Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award and is ranked among the top three hospitals in Missouri for overall orthopedics.

Ferrell Hospital seeks President, CEO William Hartley resigned as president and CEO of Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, effective Nov. 2. Alliant Management Services, which manages Ferrell Hospital under an agreement with Ferrell Hospital Board of Directors, has appointed John D. Fajt as interim president and CEO. Alliant as begun a search for a new, permanent CEO. The most qualified candidates will be interviewed by the board of directors, which will select the new CEO.

O’Neill retires

George O’Neill, the founder and longtime executive director of Shawnee Health Service, has retired after 37 years. Approximately 350 guests enjoyed refreshments, music and a celebration of O’Neill’s career Aug. 28 at the Murphysboro Event Center. The celebration was hosted by Shawnee’s employees and board of directors. Shawnee Health Service is the parent agency for Shawnee Alliance for Seniors

and 12 federally funded community health centers in Jackson and Williamson counties. Two new sites are under construction in Carbondale and Marion. Currently, Shawnee Health Service has more than 300 employees and an annual operating budget of $19 million. O’Neill also was one of the founders of Illinois Rural Health Association and Illinois Primary Health Care Association. He has been active in public policy issues concerning rural health at a state and national level. The board of directors has named Patsy Jensen to succeed O’Neill as Shawnee’s executive director.

Hospice staff receive designation

Hospice of Southern Illinois’ Employee Recognition Committee has announced that five staff members, who are all registered nurses, have received their designation from the National Board Certification for Hospice and Palliative Nurses. They include Lori Cogdill, Gayle Phelps and Shelley Webb, all from the Marion office; and Sara Sprouse and Susan Woodruff, both from the Belleville office. NBCHPN is the national organization that advances quality in the provision of care to patients and families facing lifelimiting illnesses through certification of health professionals.

Tippett joins Herbalife sales team

Carlyn Tippett of Creal Springs has become an independent consultant and certified wellness coach working with Herbalife. Herbalife has been in business for 27 years. As an independent consultant, Tippett offers personal coaching, body analysis and cellular nutrition. For information, contact Tippett at caricacres1994@gmail.com or 888-709-9811.

Karnes honored by Marion Air Evac Tracey Karnes, a flight nurse for Marion Air Evac Lifeteam crew, was honored for having the most flights for any flight nurse in the company during the last calendar year. Karnes was honored at the company’s annual awards banquet Oct. 3 in West Plains, Mo. She has been with Air Evac Lifeteam since July, 2008. Air Evac Lifeteam is a membershipsupported air ambulance company that provides care and rapid medical transport to rural communities throughout the central U.S. The company has 88 bases in 14 states.

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upcoming events For a good cause American Red Cross blood drives, Southern Illinois

Nov. 27: 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, Sesser. Nov. 29: 2 to 6 p.m., Heartland Christian Church, Marion.

Hospice of Southern Illinois

Hospice of Southern Illinois provides services year-round to terminally ill people of all ages and their loved ones. Hospice of Southern Illinois is a community-based, notfor-profit, Medicare and Medicaid certified hospice that has provided services in 27 counties in Southern Illinois for more than 28 years. In addition to health care, Hospice offers free community in-service and educational programs about lifethreatening illnesses and the choices available to patients and families. It also offers bereavement and grief counseling to the community. Donations are accepted; the funds are used to help patients and families in Southern Illinois. Donations can be sent to Hospice of Southern Illinois, 204 Halfway Road, Marion, IL 62959. Volunteers are a vital part of Hospice in all Southern Illinois counties. Volunteers are needed for patient/family care, fundraising, health fairs, speakers’ bureau, office assistants and vigil volunteers. For more information contact Hospice at 618-997-3030 or 800-233-1708.

The Dream Factory, Inc.

The Dream Factory, Inc. is a volunteer-based, not-forprofit organization that grants dreams to critically ill and chronically ill children ages 3 through 18. The Southern Illinois chapter was founded five years ago. Since then it has granted dreams ranging from giving children above-ground swimming pools to sending them on trips to special places, Area Coordinator Bart Mann said. Of each dollar the chapter raises, 94 cents remains in Southern Illinois to grant the dreams of Southern Illinois children. Contributions can be made out to Dream Factory of Southern Illinois and mailed to P.O. Box 1792, Marion IL 62959. To volunteer or receive more information, call Mann at 618-942-5080 or visit the Web site, dreamfactoryinc.org.

Mentors 4 Kids, Inc.

Mentors 4 kids, Inc. is a new mentoring program in Southern Illinois developed to match children ages 5-17 with nurturing adult volunteer role models. It will serve Williamson, Franklin and Jefferson counties and some outlying areas in Southern Illinois. The office will be in Benton. Over the past five months, the organization has gained its nonprofit 501(c)(3) status, is developing policies and procedures and preparing to match young people with mentors. The group has held fundraisers to help cover start-up costs, made presentations to area organizations and begun accepting names of potential mentors and children to be helped. All mentors will be required to go through a screening and training process. For more information, to become a volunteer or donate to Mentors 4 kids, call 618-559-9585 or Board President Carol Sluzevich at 618-435-3017 or e-mail Mentors4kids@ gmail.com.

Gum Drops, NFP

Southern Illinois Classes, Workshops and Seminars currently is helping feed 400 at-risk children every week in the Carterville, Herrin, Murphysboro, Giant City and Pinckneyville High School districts. The program sends backpacks filled with child-friendly foods home on the weekend with children who received free or low-cost meals at school. Donations of cash or food are welcomed. Checks should be made out to Gum Drops NFP. The group is a not-forprofit charitable organization so gifts are tax-deductible. Donations can be mailed to 118 Elles Ave. , Carterville IL 62918. Needed food items are granola bars, Pop-Tarts, applesauce, pudding packs, gelatin or fruit cups, cereal bars, trail mix, oatmeal, cheese and crackers, peanut butter and crackers, mini-boxes of cereal, raisins, Vienna sausages, canned spaghetti and similar items, Easy Mac bowl or individual servings, soups with pop-top lids, ramen noodle soups, BumbleBee chicken and tuna salads with crackers, Gold Fish packages, beans and franks, potted meat and fresh fruit. Volunteers help pack the backpacks on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, beginning at 6:30, at 118 Elles Ave. in Carterville (behind the new Bridal Shop). For more about the effort, visit www.gumdropkids. org, or contact Ron Simpson at 618-319-3829 or Amy Simpson at 618-319-3828 or at home, 618-985-4159.

For a complete list of charitable giving opportunities, see The Southern Illinoisan on Thanksgiving Day. Screenings Breast Self Exam Training, Carbondale

When: 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25 Where: The Breast Center, University Mall, Carbondale Registration: Free. Pre-registration is required. Call Valerie Baker, 618-457-5200, ext. 67128.

Classes, seminars and events Lunch & Learn: Plastic Surgery; Not Just for Looks

When: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16 Where: Southern Illinois Healthcare, rooms 101 A-D Registration: 877-480-4040 Fee: $3, includes lunch Come meet Dr. Aisha White and listen as she dispels some of the misconceptions about plastic surgery and answers your questions.

Cancer Support Group

When: 3 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 Where: Herrin Hospital, Conference Room C Registration: 618-942-2171, ext. 35357 Colleen Schloemann, presenter. Support group which meets on the third Wednesday of every month. Activities of the group include sharing stories and gaining knowledge with people who have had similar experiences, getting information on medical and spiritual concepts that relate to your disease, and socializing over coffee and dessert. Participants benefit from being with people who understand what they are going through, reaching out to others, having a reason to get away and take care of yourself, and getting a break from your many responsibilities and problems.

Gum Drops, NFP is an effort based in Carterville that

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Epidural Class, Carbondale

When: 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 Where: Carbondale Memorial Hospital Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration, 866-744-2468 Epidural anesthesia is a form of pain control used during labor. Because this is an invasive procedure, the Family Birthing Center feels it is important to learn the benefits and risks. A video presentation will provide expectant mothers information about the procedure, benefits and risks of epidural pain relief during childbirth. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of an anesthesia representative. Due to the size and nature of this class, we ask that children not attend. This class is required if you are planning to have the option of epidural anesthesia for childbirth.

‘Quit Now’ – Free, one-on-one consultation

When: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 Where: Western Baptist Hospital, Atrium between Doctor’s Office Buildings 2 and 3 Registration: 270-575-2895 Family practice physician Bill Conyer, M.D. and hospitalist Scott Wilson, M.D., will advise smokers of various quitting aids, including prescription medicine and nicotine replacement therapy. Sessions with the physicians are available by appointment from 8 to 10 a.m., 11a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m. Scheduling an appointment ahead of time is necessary.

Lunch with the Doctor

When: 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 19 Where: St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Registration: 618-234-4410, ext. 7015 Stacy Hecht, RD, LDN, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Outpatient Nutrition Counselor and Julia Schimmelpfennig, Clinical Pharmacist, will be presenting the program “Diabetes Management.” Seating is limited, so reservations are advised. Lunch will be provided by St. Clair County Older Adult Services, Inc., and St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.

Sibling Class

When: 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 Where: Western Baptist Hospital, Atrium Classroom, Doctor’s Office Bldg. 2 Information: 270-575-2229 Class helps to prepare children ages 2 to 9 for the arrival of a new brother or sister. Free.

Science Café – Twins and Cloning: Ethics and Reproduction in a New World

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov 19 Where: The Science Center, University Mall, Carbondale Registration: Jolynn Smith, 618-559-4314 or jsmith@ micro.siu.edu, or contact The Science Center, 618-5295431 or thesciencecenter@hotmail.com. Liz DiLalla, a faculty member at the SIU School of Medicine, will look at twins, which have fascinated humans since the beginning, and also at clones, which are an extension of natural twinning. She’ll discuss some of the ethical related issues. Admission is free. Everyone is welcome.

Saturday Morning Yoga

When: 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 Where: One O One Yoga, Carbondale Registration: Shanti Miller, 618-457-7896 This yoga class cultivates the positive mind and heart already embodied in you through your practice. Explore

the qualities of stability and freedom inherent in each pose and the attitudinal energy that infuses each action and breath throughout the practice. Learn precise alignment of the body and coordination of movement with the breath while exploring and expressing the deeper attitudes of the poses – from the inside out. $12 “drop-in” price. Packages available at a discount price.

Western Baptist Hospital Breastfeeding Classes

When: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 Where: Western Baptist Hospital, Atrium Classroom, Doctor’s Office Bldg 2 Registration: 270-575-2229 Class helps expectant mothers prepare for the breastfeeding experience. Free.

Western Baptist Prepared Childbirth Class

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 Where: Western Baptist Hospital, Meeting Room A, Doctor’s Office Bldg 2 Registration: 270-575-2229 Designed to help expectant parents in their second or third trimester learn about the labor and delivery process. Free.

Western Baptist Hospital Breastfeeding Classes

When: 6:30 to 8:3 0 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24 Where: Western Baptist Hospital, Atrium Classroom, Doctor’s Office Bldg 2 Registration: 270-575-2229 Class helps expectant mothers prepare for the breastfeeding experience. Free.

Mended Little Hearts

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Conference Room C Registration: Stephanie Hill, 618-318-2863 Mended Little Hearts, a new support program for parents of children with heart defects and heart disease, is dedicated to inspiring hope in those who care for the littlest heart patients of all. Mended Little Hearts connects families in crisis with other parents who have survived the shock of learning a child has a heart problem, navigated the maze of medical decisions and procedures, and mapped out a plan for the future. The group meets the 4th Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. Free.

Grandmother’s Coffee Break, Carbondale

When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 This special class is for the proud grandmother-tobe. This class is meant to provide some of the latest recommendations for infant safety, feeding, sleeping and more.

Prepared Childbirth Course, Carbondale

When: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1 to Tuesday, Dec. 15 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Mothers and fathers will prepare both mentally and physically for participation, sharing, and individual satisfaction in pregnancy, labor, birth and introduction to parenthood. The four-session classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a one-day version of the class

available at on Saturdays. Due to the limited size of the classes it is important to make reservations.

Epidural Class

ask that children not attend. This class is required if you are planning to have the option of epidural anesthesia for childbirth. Free.

When: 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Epidural anesthesia is a form of pain control used during labor. Because this is an invasive procedure, the Family Birthing Center feels it is important to learn the benefits and risks. A video presentation will provide expectant mothers information about the procedure, benefits and risks of epidural pain relief during childbirth. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of an anesthesia representative. Due to the size and nature of this class, we ask that children not attend. This class is required if you are planning to have the option of epidural anesthesia for childbirth. Free.

Breastfeeding Basics Class, Carbondale

Stroke/Brain Injury Support Group, Herrin

Alzheimer’s Disease Support Group

When: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3 Where: Herrin Hospital, conference room 1C Registration: 618-942-2171, ext. 35312 If you or someone you care for has been affected by a stroke or head injury, you are encouraged to attend a monthly gathering of friends and family. Learn how to accept a changed life by sharing feelings, experiences and coping strategies with others. Professional guests frequently attend to help clarify misconceptions and provide help in identifying resources.

Prepared Childbirth Course, Carbondale

When: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Mothers and fathers will prepare both mentally and physically for participation, sharing, and individual satisfaction in pregnancy, labor, birth and introduction to parenthood. This is the condensed, one-day version of the four-session classes that meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Due to the limited size of the classes it is important to make reservations.

Life with Baby

When: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7 and Monday, Dec. 14 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center 866-744-2468 MHC continues to empower parents by offering an opportunity to gain knowledge and comfort with baby basic care. This is a two hour class that will be taught on two consecutive Mondays starting at 6 p.m. Prospective parents are asked to bring a baby doll and receiving blanket to the class. The class is free.

Celiac Support Group

When: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8 Where: Carbondale Memorial Hospital Registration: Barbara 618-457-8524 This group is open to anyone with celiac disease of anyone trying to eat a gluten-free diet. The group meets in a meeting room behind the Pink Geranium gift shop. Free.

Epidural Class

When: 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Epidural anesthesia is a form of pain control used during labor. Because this is an invasive procedure, the Family Birthing Center feels it is important to learn the benefits and risks. A video presentation will provide expectant mothers information about the procedure, benefits and risks of epidural pain relief during childbirth. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of an anesthesia representative. Due to the size and nature of this class, we

When: 3 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Breastfeeding is more than just a way to feed a baby! Learn the benefits that breastfeeding provides to both baby and mother. A certified Lactation Consultant will share information and give suggestions to help get breastfeeding off on a good start. Following the basics class, mothers have the option of staying for an additional session designed to help them to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, including tips on incorporating breastfeeding their daily life and learning helpful hints when using a breast pump. Free. When: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 Where: St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, staff conference room Registration: 618-234-2120, ext. 1156 or www.steliz/ about/support_groups.php This group is offered to any family member or friend who cares for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease. The group meets the second Wednesday of each month.

Ostomy Support Group, Herrin

When: 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10 Where: Herrin Hospital, conference room 1-C Registration: Amy Stout, 618-988-6106 Ostomy Support group meets the second Thursday of every month. Anyone with a gastrostomy, colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy and/or their family members are welcome to attend. No pre-registration required.

Big Kids and Babies Sibling Class

When: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Registration: SIH Physician Referral and Event Registration Center, 866-744-2468 Designed for children 3-7 years old, this class offers upbeat information on becoming a big sister or brother. Children develop an understanding of the special needs their new sibling will have. They are encouraged to bring a stuffed animal or doll so they can practice holding, diapering and being a good helper to mommy and daddy. Parents will want to bring a camera as the children have fun dressing up as a doctor or nurse.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

When: 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14 Where: SWIC, Belleville Registration: 618-234-2120, ext. 1156 or www.steliz/ about/support_groups.php This group is offered to patients with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers of those with the disease. Meetings take place the second Monday of each month. The group will meet at SWIC – Programs and Services for Older Persons, 201 N. Church St. in Belleville.

Cancer Support Group

When: 3 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16 Where: Herrin Hospital, Conference Room C Registration: 618-942-2171, ext. 35357 Colleen Schloemann, presenter. Support group which meets on the third Wednesday of every month. Activities of the group include sharing stories and gaining knowledge with people who have had similar experiences, getting information on medical and spiritual concepts that relate to your disease, and socializing over coffee and dessert. Participants benefit from being with people who understand what they are going through, reaching out to others, having a reason to get away and take care of yourself, and getting a break from your many responsibilities and problems.

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“I enjoy being there for my patients and their families. Communicating with and taking care of my patients throughout their medical problems, and witnessing the end result of a healthier life is my goal as an Internal Medicine Physician.� Dr. Lawler has returned to the area after attending University of Illinois for Medical School and Washington University in St. Louis for his undergraduate degree

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health news Notebook for caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients

Great American Smokeout tomorrow On Thursday, the American Cancer Society marks the 33rd annual Great American Smokeout, nationally recognized as a platform to educate the public on dangers associated with tobacco use and to encourage smokers to quit for a lifetime by starting with just one day. This year, more than 11 million smokers are estimated to participate in the Great American Smokeout nationally. There are many reasons to quit smoking. Here are the most prevalent: • Lung cancer remains the No. 1 cancer killer among men and women. • Smoking accounts for at least 30 percent of all cancer deaths and 87 percent of lung cancer deaths. • In 2009, approximately 9,120 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in Illinois, and an estimated 6,940 people in Illinois will die from the disease. • Smoking is also associated with increased risk for cancers of the mouth, nasal cavities, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, cervix, kidney, bladder and myeloid leukemia. According to the National Interview Survey, 51 percent of smokers have attempted to quit smoking, but only five to 10

percent are successful on any given attempt. The following are some methods to quit for good: Medication: Research has shown using a quitting smoking medication, such as bupropion (Zyban) or the nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, inhaler or lozenge, can double chances of successfully quitting. Self-help materials: Resources are available to help those quitting learn how to prepare, develop strategies to help with cravings, and prevent relapses. Support programs: The American Cancer Society has a list of community smoking cessation resources including classes, support groups, Internet resources, or medication assistance referrals. Quitlines: Telephone counseling programs provide quitting strategies and support over the phone, at convenient times. The American Cancer Society offers free resources and support that can increase a smoker’s chances of quitting successfully, including tips and tools for friends and family. For free information and support by cancer information specialists, available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, call 800-227-2345, or visit the Society Web site at www.cancer.

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Moderate weight loss helps reduce risk of osteoarthritis in knees

Here’s another good reason to lose even a moderate amount of weight: It could reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis in your knees. People who are overweight and lose just 5 percent of their weight are less likely to develop osteoarthritis of the knee, or knee OA, compared to people who gain weight, according to data from a large ongoing study by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine. “We hear a lot of messages about how obesity affects cardiovascular disease and diabetes, but arthritis is often overlooked,� says Lauren Abbate, a third-year medical student at UNC and lead investigator of the knee OA paper, presented at the American College of Rheumatology scientific meeting in Philadelphia. “OA is painful and debilitating. Effective treatments are limited and there’s not a cure. But if we can get people to lose weight we may reduce their risk and reduce the pain and disability associated with this condition,� Abbate says. More than 27 million Americans have OA, the most common joint disease affecting middle-aged and older people. OA causes progressive damage to the joint cartilage and changes in the structures around the joint, which can include fluid accumulation, bony overgrowth and loosening and weakness of muscles and tendons, all of which may limit movement and cause pain and swelling.

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The Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Notebook, published by Meredith Corp., can help a caregiver manage the challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. The notebook’s easy-to-follow format contains tips for care and planning for the future, as well as a list of resources to use when additional information is needed. Each of its eight chapters has a section to write notes or thoughts, making this book a personal record that can be referenced again and again. Chapters include: • Taking good care of yourself • Understanding an Alzheimer diagnosis • Basics of Alzheimer’s disease • Legal and ďŹ nancial planning • Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s Convenient inside pockets and magnetic flap closure allow someone to store additional documents and keep information secure. Pilot testing of the notebook has shown that readers find it a valuable resource for their caregiving needs. Ninety-three percent said the notebook helped lessens their worries or concerns about being a caregiver, while 92 percent indicated they would continue to reference it. The notebook is $17.95 plus shipping at www.alz.org.

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You can teach an old dog new tricks, say UCLA scientists who found that middleaged and older adults with little Internet experience were able to trigger key centers in the brain that control decision-making and complex reasoning after just one week of surfing the Web. The findings, presented Oct. 19 at the 2009 meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, suggest that Internet training can stimulate neural activation patterns and could potentially enhance brain function and cognition in older adults. As the brain ages, a number of structural and functional changes occur, including atrophy, reductions in cell activity and increases in deposits of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which can impact cognitive function. Research has shown that mental stimulation similar to that which occurs in individuals who frequently use the Internet may affect the efficiency of cognitive processing and alter the way the brain encodes new information. “We found that for older people with minimal experience, performing Internet searches for even a relatively short period of time can change brain activity patterns and enhance function,� said study author Dr. Gary Small, a professor of psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA and the author of “iBrain,� a book that describes the impact of new technology on the brain and behavior.

New hearing aid options: Looking good, sounding better

Advances in hearing aid design and technology mean more and better choices for consumers. The October issue of Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource covers the pros and cons of various styles, from those that are barely noticeable to others that resemble the latest phones and come in stylish colors. Most of today’s hearing aids work by providing more amplification for soft sounds and less amplification for loud sounds, making soft and average conversational speech loud enough to hear. Digital technology allows for smaller hearing aids that can be programmed and adjusted to better match an individual’s unique hearing loss, usually with better sound quality, less feedback (squealing) and better noise reduction. In general, the smaller the hearing aid, the less powerful and flexible it is and the shorter its battery life. For hearing aids that tuck completely in the ear canal, the battery life is three to five days. For styles that are larger, batteries last up to two weeks. Because each situation is unique, an individual may not be a candidate for all styles and types of hearing aids.

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The Southern HEALTH Magazine

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Exercise your right ...

to live free from diabetes

BY JODI HAWkINS

I

magine eating anything you want and suddenly starting to lose weight while doing so. Sound like a dream come true? Sadly, this scenario can turn out to be more of a nightmare for many because it’s often a precursor to diabetes. But there is a way to effectively prevent or manage diabetes without giving up much more than a bit of your own well deserved time. Exercise, while often dreaded, has proven itself as a leader among health improvement practices. Those fighting diabetes are sure to find that their illness is no match for the wonders of regular workouts. Bob Dickerson of Marion found himself in a similar situation 31 years ago. He was 21 years old, newly married and about to finish college when his already ideal weight began to inexplicably drop. Then after battling a bad case of the flu, he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. As someone who enjoyed sports, he made a conscious effort to keep his weight down since he was a high school freshman. With a very minimal family history of the disease, he was completely unaware of what to expect. “To me it was like a death sentence because I didn’t know that you could live with it,” Dickerson said. Fortunately, Dickerson has managed his diabetes quite well over the years, but he attributes part of his success to the somewhat harsh way his former doctor educated him about the illness. “He basically said, ‘People your age tend to think they’re indestructible. If you don’t listen to me, then you’re not going to die right off, but you’ll just start losing stuff, like your eyesight or limbs. You’re going to age inside faster if you don’t take care of yourself. But if you listen to me and do what I say, in 30 years people won’t know you’re diabetic unless you tell them.’” Dickerson recalled. His doctor also advised him to stay active, saying that exercise makes just everything work better. Today, Dickerson continues to take that advice by faithfully following a running and weight lifting regimen.

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Make it fun For more ways to make fitness fun — including martial arts, aquatics, etc.— visit www.reccenter.siu.edu or contact check out continuing education courses and fitness centers at these community colleges: • John A. Logan College www.jalc.edu. cc.il.us/ • Rend Lake College www.rlc.edu • Southeastern Illinois College www.sic. cc.il.us/ • Shawnee College www.shawneecc.edu/

JODI HAWkINS / FOR THE SOUTHERN Carbondale Gold’s Gym manager Mike Baltz shows diabetic Vickie klubek of Murphysboro how to monitor her progress on the treadmill.

Top 10 reasons to get active The American Diabetes Association lists the following as the top 10 benefits of being active:

Bob Dickerson and his wife, Robin, of Marion run regularly to help manage his diabetes.

Prevention possibilities The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 54 million individuals in the United States aged 21 years and older have prediabetes. “That’s 54 million people who just need to start eating more healthy and getting more exercise,” said Mike Baltz, general manager of Gold’s Gym in Carbondale. “This isn’t predestined. It only is if you allow it to be. You can intervene. We have this whole generation of people who are on the verge of becoming diabetic early on in life, and the longer you are diabetic, the greater the chances are of having all of the complications to catch up with you.” “It’s well established that people who eat well and exercise have a low risk of developing diabetes even if they’re genetically prone to having it,” said Dr. Anad Salem, family practice physician in Carbondale. In fact, the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) conducted a study showing that people at risk for developing diabetes can prevent or delay its onset by losing a modest amount of weight through diet and exercise. DPP participants in the lifestyle intervention group reduced their risk of developing diabetes by an impressive 58 percent during the study.

Look beyond blood sugar

According to Salem, controlling blood sugar is only one of many ways exercise helps in diabetic care. “Exercise has been known to decrease triglycerides, improve HDL and decrease LDL cholesterol,” he said. Salem said triglycerides cause inflammation in blood vessels which leads to heart disease, but exercise provides great improvement for this condition. “The No. 1 cause of death in diabetics is heart disease and stroke,” Salem said. “If we can control somebody’s inflammation and their cholesterol and triglycerides, we reduce their risk of complications associated with diabetes as well as controlling their blood sugar.” Making improvements in these and other physical conditions through exercise often reduces the need for some prescription drugs. “By increasing exercise you improve insulin sensitivity so you can decrease medication,” Salem said. He said that while exercise improves other health conditions, it’s important to remember that some of their associated medications are protective. That’s why the goal of preventing or managing diabetes shouldn’t always be about reducing medicine intake. “Granted, less is more, but I steer my patients away from doing a pill count,” he said. Instead, he focuses on other areas

Jodi Hawkins / For THE SOUTHERN

of their lives such as activity and fitness levels as well as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight. Although weight loss can dramatically improve diabetes, successful management of the disease will last only as long as regular exercise continues. “I’ve had patients lose 100 pounds and their diabetes goes into remission, but the propensity is there if they gain weight,” said Dr. Frank Becker, endocrinologist of Community Health & Emergency Services (CHESI) Specialty Clinic in Carbondale.

Eliminate excuses

Ironically, while exercise provides an enormous list of health benefits, many of us will make any excuse necessary to avoid it. Between lack of time, physical limits and feeling stressed or exhausted, it’s easy to find a reason not to work out. Factor in our winter hibernation tendencies, and suddenly it seems much more appealing to curl up on the couch in front of the TV every night. Vickie Klubek of Murphysboro has battled Type 2 diabetes for 17 years. She has found the benefits she gets from exercise make it easier to keep working out because it helps more than her diabetes. It also improves the lethargy that comes with her Seasonal Adjustment Disorder. She said she feels less tired and depressed during

1. Improve blood glucose management. Activity makes your body more sensitive to the insulin you make and burns glucose (calories). Both actions lower blood glucose. 2 .Lower blood pressure. Activity helps your heart pump stronger and slower. 3. Improve blood fats. Exercise can raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyc-erides. These changes are heart healthy. 4. Reduce insulin or diabetes pills. Activity can lower blood glucose and weight. Both of these may lower how much insulin or diabetes pills you need to take. 5. Lose weight and keep it off. Activity burns calories. If you burn enough calories, you’ll trim a few pounds. Stay active and you’ll keep the weight off. 6. Lower risk for other health problems. Reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke, some cancers, and bone loss. 7. Gain more energy and sleep better. You’ll get better sleep in less time and have more energy, too. 8. Relieve stress. Work out or walk off daily stress. 9. Build stronger bones and muscles. Weight-bearing activities, such as walking, make bones stronger. Strength-training activities, such as lifting weight (or even cans of beans), make muscles strong. 10. Be more flexible. Move easier when you are active.

gloomy weather. “At the gym, the lights, music and activity all around engage me, and I feel less confined and isolated,” Klubek said. Another culprit of avoiding exercise is because of an “all-or-nothing” mentality. “A lot of people are stuck in an old-fashioned mindset that you have to work out for 20 or 30 minutes or you might as well not at all,” said Baltz, “There’s lots of research that shows how three 10-minute workout sessions is the equivalent or more (as far as calorie burns) to one 30-minute session, so it’s cumulative. You don’t have to reach some threshold level of effort before you get any benefit.” Think only certain exercises will help? Think again. Salem said he believes the key to consistent exercise is in doing the things you enjoy most. “It doesn’t matter as long as whatever you’re doing reinforces you to do more,” he said.

Take their advice

People who become diabetic or pre-diabetic are encouraged to seek medical advice before anything else. However, it can also be helpful to talk to someone who has been there, done that. Listening to health care professionals and fellow diabetics share their knowledge and experiences is a great way to learn more, especially those who practice

Nov. 18, 2009

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what they preach. Dickerson, a pastor at First Baptist Church in Marion, said the basic ingredient to making your life the best it can be in almost every category is discipline. “You feel better about yourself when you’re living a disciplined life, whether that’s spiritually, physically or mentally,” he said. “If you’re a disciplined diabetic, you’ll live a more positive and enjoyable life. The benefits of exercise, to me, are incredible.” For some, being disciplined also means being held accountable. That’s why Kathie Fralish of Carbondale recommended getting a personal trainer and establishing a regular exercise routine. “Most people cannot do it on their own, especially if they’ve not regularly exercised before,” she said. “It’s just as important as what you eat and what medications you take.” Fralish has been a diabetic for 36 years. Her primary benefit of staying fit is that she can continue to do the things she enjoys since retiring, such as backpacking, cycling, hiking and chasing her five grandchildren. “On our last backpacking trip, we hiked a very steep and rocky trail with a 35-pound backpack, and I thanked my personal trainer with every step,” Fralish said. see exercise / page 10

The Southern HEALTH Magazine

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Exercise: Live your life free from diabetes from page 9 Those who prefer to go it alone or want adopt a low impact type of activity could start by simply getting in extra steps each day. “Walking is the safest exercise,â€? Salem said. “It’s the cheapest, least traumatic and easiest to do without equipment or preparation.â€? “Our bodies were made to move,â€? said Amy Stout, patient education coordinator at Herrin Hospital. “Making time every day to move helps our body function at its best.â€? Stout suggests interrupting periods of being sedentary in several ways, such as getting up during TV commercials and moving around. “Do leg and arm exercises if sitting or if there are injuries preventing more vigorous exercise,â€? Stout said. She also said 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day is ideal. “This could be walking briskly, biking, swimming, dancing, tennis, or basketball.â€? Klubek stresses that having many of the health problems associated with diabetes really decreases one’s quality of life. “Being fat, with an unhealthy heart and kidneys, sore feet and legs, no energy and shortness of breath to is no way to live,â€? she said. â€œI would much rather put up with the inconvenience of watching my diet and working out regularly, than to disintegrate into that kind of misery and inability to participate in the lives of the people I love,â€? Klubek said.

November is National Diabetes Month; for lots more information go to www.diabetes.org Activity tips for diabetic teens The National Diabetes Education Program suggests several fun ways for teenagers be more active, whether they have diabetes or are still trying to prevent it. • Take a walk, hike or ride a bike • Skateboard, roller blade or ice skate • Play some music and dance with your friends. If you like video games, try a dance or other active video game. • Play basketball, baseball, softball, golf, soccer, tennis,

volleyball or your favorite sport • Go bowling • Take your dog for a walk The NDEP also urges teens who haven’t been very active in the past to start slowly. Begin with just a few min-utes of daily exercise or activity. Then gradually increase steps and work up to at least 10,000 steps a day. Consider getting a pedometer. Many find them to be helpful and even motivating.

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Stereotypes can fuel teen misbehavior Drinking. Drugs. Caving into peer pressure. When parents expect their teenagers to conform to negative stereotypes, those teens are in fact more likely to do so, according to new research by Christy Buchanan, professor of psychology at Wake Forest University. “Parents who believe they are simply being realistic might actually contribute to a self-fulfilling prophecy,� says Buchanan, who studies adolescent development and behavior. “Negative expectations on the part of both parents and children predict more negative behaviors later on.� In her study, published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence, Buchanan found that adolescents whose mothers expected them to take more risks and be more rebellious reported higher levels of risk-taking behavior than their peers one year later. The same was true for adolescents’ negative expectations. Parents who expect their kids to suddenly become James Dean when they turn 13, even if they have not been rebellious earlier in life, might be making an important mistake. “Sometimes parents expect more negative behavior from their own adolescents than they should based on the adolescent’s history of behavior,� Buchanan says. “By thinking risk-taking or rebelliousness is normal for teenagers and conveying that to their children, parents might add to other messages from society that make teenagers feel abnormal if they are not willing to take risks or break laws. This can mean, for example, that when parents expect teens to drink before they turn 21 or to engage in other risky behaviors, kids are less likely to resist societal pressures to do so.� Buchanan offers the following suggestions:

Parents’ own behavior is a powerful example. Do not suggest in your words or behavior that the only or best way to have fun is through drinking, sex or drug use. • Let your teenager know that many adolescents resist drinking, smoking or early sexual activity. • Draw attention to examples of teenagers who are doing positive things. Convey confidence that your child can do the same, and will not be alone in doing so. • Communicate and support avenues for having fun without negative risk-taking. Teenagers who get into trouble are often simply seeking ways to relieve stress or have fun. Parents who understand this need can offer ideas and opportunities that are healthy and legal. • Make your own home a fun and comfortable place for your teenager and his/her friends to socialize. Do not allow negative risk-taking such as drinking to occur in your own home. • Encourage and support involvement in positive extracurricular activities, such as community service, sports, music, theater, faith-based youth groups or other activities. • Pay attention to your teenager’s peer choices. Positive peer pressure exists! Encourage and support affiliation with other teens who are involved in positive activities and not getting into trouble. Get to know other parents, and encourage affiliations with families who share your values. • Make sure your teenager knows that there will be negative consequences if he or she engages in negative risk-taking, and follow through if such risk-taking occurs. Lack of consequences implicitly communicates that parents accept such behaviors.

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The Southern HEALTH Magazine

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Can you eat your way

out of pain?

Diet tips to reduce chronic inflammation, get your body in balance

BY WILLIAM ATkINSON

T

hese days, millions of people are plagued by chronic inflammation, which is caused by swelling cells that ultimately lead to pain. Joint tissue is designed to exist in a state of equilibrium (tissue degradation and tissue re-creation). However, byproducts of an over-stimulated enzyme called COX-2, composed of inflammatory chemicals, can create inflammation. Treatment of pain takes many forms these days physical therapy, chiropractic, massage, pain medications, muscle creams, heat patches and so on. All of these treatments can be effective in reducing aches and pains, but if the pain is caused by chronic inflammation, the pain will continue to return, because the cause has not been addressed. While chronic inflammation is painful and uncomfortable, it can also signal more serious problems. Research is uncovering evidence that the most common ailments that afflict people these days may all have one thing in common chronic inflammation. These ailments include Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. There is also some evidence that skin wrinkling and sinusitis are triggered by chronic inflammation. Ailments that were once thought to be completely unrelated may not be, so if you suffer from chronic inflammation and are able to get it under control, you may lessen your chances of more debilitating conditions in the future. Certainly, there are medicines designed to reduce inflammation. They are called COX-2 inhibitors. However, these require prescriptions, and many of them have side effects, some of them serious. For example, Vioxx, a popular prescription anti-inflammatory, was taken off the market in 2004 due to increased risk for heart attacks and strokes among patients taking

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the drug. According to Dr. Linda Hostalek of Holistic Healing Arts in Herrin and Pomona, the source of chronic inflammation can be a poor diet, too much stress or anything else that puts your body out of balance. “When your body is out of balance, you can adjust for a while to the inflammation,” she explains. “However, if you remain out of balance, the inflammation accumulates, and it is more difficult to reduce it.” For example, one effect of inflammation is artery plaque. The longer you have had this plaque, the thicker it becomes, and the longer it will take to get rid of it. Anyone suffering from chronic inflammation should certainly consult with their healthcare providers for guidance. However, there are also steps you can take on your own to reduce chronic inflammation steps that are completely safe, which involve what you eat, and don’t eat.

Meggs recommends a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables and cold-water fish. Fleming’s recommendations include cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts; allium vegetables, including garlic and onions; and fruits, especially blueberries, blackberries, citrus, Concord grapes, and cranberries. He also recommends high fiber foods, such as whole grains and beans, which, he explains, bind to inflammatory-causing foods and eliminate them from the body. Other research identifies additional specific foods that are particularly useful in preventing inflammation. These include wild Alaska sockeye salmon, mercury-free tuna, rye bread, whole wheat bread, oat-based cereal and branbased cereal. Of course, a lot of cereals are packed with sugar, which triggers inflammation, so be sure to select cereals low in sugar, such as Cheerios. In terms of cooking oils, all authors specifically recommend olive oil, particularly extra-virgin olive oil. In terms of drinking, research suggests that pomegranate juice reduces chronic inflammation, as do small amounts of red wine. And water is particularly important, because research shows that lack of hydration can quickly trigger inflammation. “Part of the solution is to remain properly hydrated, flushing your body with clean water,” suggests Hostalek.

If you consider vitamins or other supplements as a way to reduce chronic inflammation, it is best to check with your health-care provider first.

Inflammation triggers

Research is showing that certain foods are likely to trigger chronic inflammation. Richard Fleming, M.D., author of “Stop Inflammation Now,” recommends reducing refined sugar; saturated fats; Omega-6 fatty acids, such as corn oil, safflower oil, and soy oil; trans-fat oils such as margarine and many salad dressings; and highly-processed foods, such as white breads, potato chips, cookies and other sweets. Hostalek agrees. “Some of the biggest contributors to inflammation are sugar, white flour, and heavilyprocessed foods,” she says.

Nov. 18, 2009

In his book, “The Inflammation Cure,” author William Meggs, M.D., Ph.D., recommends reducing consumption of red meats and dairy (milk and cheese). Jack Challem, author of “The Inflammation Syndrome,” also expresses concerns about nightshades as a possible source of chronic inflammation. These include tomatoes, red and green peppers and potatoes. Interestingly, cutting down on the amount of food you eat in general also shows evidence of being able to reduce chronic inflammation. In their books, both Meggs and Fleming emphasize the importance of “calorie reduction” or “calorie restriction.” In fact, according to Fleming, reducing the amount of food you eat overall will not only help to reduce chronic inflammation, but can also provide additional health benefits, including blood sugar stabilization, reduced blood pressure, improved circulation to the extremities, improved sleep and energy levels, and improved skin tone.

Foods your body loves

Given the list of foods to delete from your diet, as well as the advice to cut back on eating in general, it may not seem like there is much left. However, there are also a significant number of foods and supplements that can actually reduce chronic inflammation.

Spice up your life

Everyone remembers elementary and high school world history classes that covered the “spice trade” between countries in Asia and

Europe a few hundred years ago. However, few people ever think of what the attraction of spices was for Europeans. Certainly, they used the spices to enliven the taste of their meals and also to preserve certain foods. However, what they may also have known is what people in southern Asia have known for centuries that certain spices have significant health benefits. It is interesting to note, for example, that the rates of inflammatory-triggered diseases are quite a bit lower in India than in Europe and North America. One reason, it is surmised, is because people in India are spice lovers, particularly spices that new scientific research is showing can actually reduce chronic inflammation. The most powerful is curcumin, which is found in ginger, turmeric and curry. Fleming recommends all of these spices as a way to reduce chronic inflammation. Other spices and herbs that may also help are oregano, rosemary, green tea and chamomile.

Vitamins

There has always been debate about the effectiveness of vitamin and supplement usage. Despite the fact that there are many thousands of scientifically-sound studies on the value of certain supplements, there is also legitimate concern that some vitamins and supplements can have negative side effects. There also have been stories of people “going overboard” after hearing about certain supplements and suffering side effects from overdosing. If you consider vitamins or other supplements as a way to reduce chronic inflammation, it is best to check with your health-care provider first. However, there should probably be no concern at all with supplementing with a multi-vitamin, which contains, among other substances, B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E, which some research suggests have the ability to reduce chronic inflammation. One of the most interesting and newly-studied supplements is resveratrol, which may prove to have significant anti-inflammation properties. Interestingly, there are high amounts of resveratrol in red wine and grapes, which are frequently mentioned as effective in reducing inflammation. Resveratrol is also available separately in supplement form. Other frequently-mentioned supplements include bromelain, quercetin, and glucosamine sulfate. Again, though, check with your healthcare provider before taking any of these. One supplement, however, that virtually no one will argue against, and, in fact, many healthcare providers will even actively recommend, is DHA/EPA fish oil, which, besides reducing chronic inflammation, has a whole host of other positive health benefits.

Books worth a look “Anti-Inflammation Diet and Recipe Book,” Jessica Black “Beyond Aspirin,” Thomas Newmark and Paul Schulick “Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Anti-Inflammation Diet,” Christopher Cannon, M.D.

“Inflammation Cure,” William Meggs, M.D. Ph.D. “Inflammation Syndrome,” Jack Challen “Stop Inflammation Now,” Richard Fleming, M.D.

pet health Preventing foodborne illnesses

scoop or spoon. • Dispose of old or spoiled pet food products in a safe manner, such as in a securely tied plastic bag in a covered trash receptacle.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has stepped up its efforts to minimize the incidence of foodborne illness associated with pet foods and treats, which can also affect people, too, especially children, older people and people with compromised immune systems. Pet owners and consumers can also help reduce the likelihood of infection from contaminated pet foods and treats by following safe handling instructions:

Storage • Refrigerate promptly or discard any unused, leftover wet pet food. Refrigerators should be set at 40º F. • Dry products should be stored in a cool, dry place—under 80º F. • If possible, store dry pet food in its original bag inside a clean, dedicated plastic container with a lid, keeping the top of the bag folded closed. • Keep pets away from food storage and preparation areas. • Keep pets away from garbage and household trash.

Buying Purchase products in good condition, without signs of damage to the packaging such as dents or tears.

Preparation • Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats. • Wash pet food bowls, dishes, and scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use. • Do not use the pet’s feeding bowl as a scooping utensil—use a clean, dedicated

Visit thesouthern.com/ health to find information about pet health

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Foods that can reduce inflammation • Bran-based cereals (but only if low in sugar) • Cold-water fish (especially tuna and Alaska salmon) • Fresh fruits (especially blueberries, blackberries, citrus, Concord grapes and cranberries) • Fresh vegetables (especially broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic and onions) • Oat-based cereals (but only if low in sugar,

such as Cheerios) • Olive oil (especially extra virgin) • Pomegranate juice • Red wine (in moderation) • Rye bread • Spices and herbs (especially curry, ginger, and turmeric; and possibly oregano, rosemary, green tea, and chamomile) • Whole grain foods (such as whole wheat bread)

Foods that can trigger inflammation • Dairy (milk and cheese) • Junk food (virtually all “sweets,” including cookies, cakes, pies, and candy; potato chips, etc. • Nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes) • Omega-6 oils (corn oil, safflower oil, soy oil) • Red meats • Saturated fats • Soft drinks • Sugar • Trans-fat oils (margarine and many salad dressings)

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her health

Women’s Health Care Maintaining Body and Mind

Heart attacks more common but less often fatal Heart attacks appear to have become more common in middle-aged women over the past two decades, but all women and especially those younger than 55 have recently experienced a greater increase than men in their chances of survival following such a heart event, according to two reports in the Oct. 26 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Middle-aged women have historically had a lower overall risk of heart events and stroke than men of a similar age, according to background information in one of the articles. However, a recent report showing higher stroke rates among women than men in a sample representative of the U.S. population appeared to reveal a new phenomenon and raised the question of whether heart disease or heart attack were also becoming more prevalent among women.

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Nov. 18, 2009

Special concerns with prescription medications

Most people have taken a prescription medication at one time or another, but according to a report from the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) in Rockville, Md., not only do women take more medications during their lifetimes, women are more likely to suffer from adverse drug events than men. As a result of this trend, “Women should be proactive about their medication use,” explains Dr. Rosaly Correa-de-Araujo, senior advisor for women’s health at AHRQ. Because women are more likely to experience adverse drug reactions than men, it becomes even more important for women to take an active role in their healthcare. Medication is supposed to make you feel better, but if it isn’t taken correctly, it can have the opposite effect. Whether you are taking a prescription medication or an over-the-counter drug, you should keep the following guidelines in mind: According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), here’s a list of things you should know about each medicine you take: • Name (generic name and brand name) • Reason for taking it • How much to take and how often to take it • Possible side effects and what to do if you have them • How long to continue taking it • Special instructions (taking it at bedtime or with meals, etc.)

his health

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Did you know?

Low cholesterol might shrink risk for high-grade prostate cancer

Men with lower cholesterol are less likely than those with higher levels to develop high-grade prostate cancer an aggressive form of the disease with a poorer prognosis, according to results of a Johns Hopkins collaborative study. In a prospective study of more than 5,000 U.S. men, epidemiologists say they now have evidence that having lower levels of heart-clogging fat may cut a man’s risk of this form of cancer by nearly 60 percent. “For many reasons, we know that it’s good to have a cholesterol level within the normal range,” says Elizabeth Platz, ssociate professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and co-director of the cancer prevention and control program at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. “Now, we have more evidence that among the benefits of low cholesterol may be a lower risk for potentially deadly prostate cancers.” Normal range is defined as less than 200 mg/ dL (milligrams per deciliter of blood) of total cholesterol. Platz and her colleagues found similar results in a study first published in 2008, and in 2006, she linked use of cholesterol-lowering statin drugs to lower risk of advanced prostate cancer.

If parents smoke, chances are their adolescents will, too. After studying 564 adolescents, researchers confirm a direct link between parental smoking and initiation of smoking by adolescents. In fact, fathers who smoke are more likely to influence teen boys than girls. The solution? Quit smoking.

Men living longer now

Men may be catching up to women in lifespan, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The life-expectancy gap between men and women has shrunk to 5.2 years, the narrowest since 1946. But men still need to pay more attention to their health. Why? Compared to women, men are more likely to: • Smoke and drink more, and generally lead less healthy lifestyles • Put off routine checkups and even ignore symptoms of a health problem • Join in fearless, risky, and dangerous behaviors • Working-aged men also are less likely than women to have a regular doctor. The good news is that many of the diseases and health conditions that men face can be prevented or treated if they are found early. To start taking better care of your health, learn about your risk factors. Risk factors are things in your life that increase your chances of getting a certain disease. Some risk factors you cannot change, such as your age or family history. But many are in your control. Find out what you can do to lower your risk factors and improve your overall health. Next, find out how often you should see a doctor for routine checkups and what screenings, tests, and vaccines you might need. By taking these steps, you will feel good knowing you are doing all you can to take charge of your health.

Excessive alcohol use and risks to health Men are more likely than women to drink excessively. Excessive drinking is associated with significant increases in short-term risks to health and safety, and the risk increases as the amount of drinking increases. Men are also more likely than women to take other risks (e.g., drive fast or without a safety belt), when combined with excessive drinking, further increasing their risk of injury or death.

Injuries and deaths as a result of excessive alcohol use Men consistently have higher rates of alcohol-related deaths and hospitalizations than women.

risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver and colon in men.

Reproductive health and sexual function Excessive alcohol use can interfere with testicular function and male hormone production, resulting in impotence, infertility and reduction of male secondary sex characteristics such as facial and chest hair. Excessive alcohol use is commonly involved in sexual assault. Impaired judgment caused by alcohol may worsen the tendency of some men to mistake a women’s friendly behavior for sexual interest and misjudge their use of force. Also, alcohol use by men increases the chances of engaging in risky sexual activity including, unprotected sex, sex with multiple partners or sex with a partner at risk for sexually transmitted diseases.

Among drivers in fatal motorvehicle traffic crashes, men are almost twice as likely as women to have been intoxicated (i.e., a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or greater). Excessive alcohol consumption increases aggression and, as a result, can increase the risk of physically assaulting another person. Men are more likely than women to commit suicide, and more likely to have been drinking prior to committing suicide.

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— Centers for Disease Control

Alcohol consumption increases the

Find all things health at www.thesouthern.com/healthblog Nov. 18, 2009

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t a P k a c rkway a B d e c n u o B I

I was recently at Parkway Manor in the Bounce Back program after having hip replacement surgery. I am now back home and doing well. Before my surgery, my daughter and I went all over southern Illinois looking for a suitable rehabilitation facility. We knew I would need at least a couple weeks of rehab before being able to return home. We toured all of the facilities in Southern Illinois and picked up all of the literature. After comparing all of the nursing and rehabilitation facilities we felt that Parkway Manor was by far the best! Once we chose Parkway Manor for my rehab, we scheduled the hip replacement surgery. After my surgery, I spent two and a half weeks at Parkway Manor, and I must say that the staff were outstanding in all departments. The food was good. The facility is beautiful and very clean. The nursing and therapy departments are absolutely fabulous. They did such a great job getting me back on my feet. Now I have my husband at Parkway Manor and he is doing quite well. I have no complaints, only compliments! I would highly recommend Parkway Manor’s Bounce Back program to anyone that needs rehabilitation.

Marilouise Woods Marion, IL

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