Baltimore County
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A Lifestyle Magazine
COMPLIMENTARY Volume 49 Issue 6
omen’s ournal
How Does the New
‘female Viagra’ Work?
Dr. Chetanna Okasi NEHA Spa Fall & Winter Style Tips
HEALTH & WELLNESS
How does the new
‘Female Viagra’ work? By Dr. Okasi
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any women experience problems with sex at some point in their lives. Yet, it is a topic that many people are hesitant or embarrassed to discuss. Pain, lack of desire, lack of arousal, or failure to achieve orgasm are all signs of female sexual dysfunction. Natural changes that occur after childbirth or menopause can play a role. Additionally, illness, medications, life and relationship stress, and poor self-image can
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As the clinical trials progressed over the course of about 8 years, so did techniques in determining desire.” prevent women from experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity. Several years ago, the discovery of Viagra for men revolutionized the world of male sexual dysfunction and it was hoped that a similar drug would be found for women. The FDA recently approved Flibanserin (trade name “Addy”), a new female libido drug that aims to boost sexual desire in women. Although it is sometimes referred to as the “female Viagra,” it works very differently.
Flibanserin was originally investigated in 1995 by a team of researchers at Boehringer Ingelheim Italia in Milan as an antidepressant. A clinical trial found it did little to alleviate depression, but did seem to have an effect on mood. It just wasn’t the mood the researchers were expecting. These early trials tipped clinicians to flibanserin’s more prominent role in sexual health, as female subjects had higher scores on the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, a survey that asks
participants to rate their satisfaction on a variety of sexual health topics, like how often participants felt sexual desire and how intense that desire was. In later trials, another group of researchers explored flibanserin as a libido-enhancer in 2008. Their subjects reported higher levels of sexual desire. In spite of these results, the FDA rejected the drug twice concluding that the reported increases in libido were not statistically significant. Regulators were wary of potentially dangerous side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and fainting. Subsequently, Sprout Pharmaceuticals did additional testing and development with thousands of women reporting significant improvement in sexual desire. Flibanserin took center stage this summer by winning long-sought approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2015. So what turned FDA’s red light green? For one: the parameters of the later trials. According to Sheryl Kingsberg, a reproductive biology and psychology researcher at University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio and Clinical Investigator on the flibanserin trials, the evaluation of sexual desire in the brain is not a particularly clear-cut measurement. As the clinical trials progressed over the course of about 8 years, so did techniques in determining desire. In more recent trials, women reported about one more positive sexual experience per month, and about 10% more of the patients who took flibanserin reported meaningful improvements compared with a placebo group. By these measures, FDA approved Addyi as the first drug meant to kindle desire. Though it’s been nicknamed the “female Viagra,” the two drugs function in very different ways—Viagra aims to enhance performance whereas flibanserin (Addyi) aims to balance chemicals in the brain that enhance
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For some women, Addyi can prove to be an effective solution for a normal healthy sex life.” sexual desire. Addyi is much less effective than Viagra so don’t expect to see a guaranteed response in every woman. Unlike Viagra that men take just when they want to have sex, Addyi is meant to be taken on a daily basis and the effects can take up to 4 weeks to notice, and may improve as time progresses. Addyi is meant only
HEALTH & WELLNESS for certain women who have not yet gone through menopause and who have a low desire for sex that is causing them stress. It is not recommended for women whose low libido is due to medical or psychiatric problems or medication, or problems within the relationship. Addyi cannot be used with alcohol or certain medications. For now, FDA has cautioned users with a black-box warning. In essence, a woman taking Addyi daily would have to give up alcohol. Addyi can cause dizziness, low blood pressure and fainting. Although Addyi is available to the general public, Addyi must be prescribed by a doctor with training and certification for patient safety. Women who experience any type of problem with sex are encouraged to talk to their doctor. A thorough assessment of all possible underlying causes is essential. In most cases, doctors recommend trying other things to improve your relationship and sex life before even trying medicine. For some women, Addyi can prove to be an effective solution for a normal healthy sex life. Most importantly, women who feel healthy and happy are more likely to be happy with their sex life.■
Ellicott City: 9501 Old Annapolis Road, Suite 305 Ellicott City, MD 21042 Laurel 8317 Cherry Lane Laurel, MD 20707 Phone numbers: 443-380-0060 410-730-7722 December - January 2015
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Volume 49 issue 6
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omen’s ournal
HEALTH & WELLNESS/BEAUTY
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Fall &Winter
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Style Tips
We can restore that luster to you hair and skin with our natural hair and skin care products.”
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on’t let winter doldrums get you down. Dry heat, cold air and the constant change of outdoor temperatures create challenges for us all from head to toe. Our natural skin and hair skincare products deliver benefits to your whole body. Restore and revive with us at Neha Threading Salon and Spa. We can restore that luster to you hair and skin with our natural hair and skin care products. Davines is a natural hair care line that provides the best products with attention and respect for our environment, using high grade and natural ingredients. Revitalize your hair with a deep conditioning treatment or a hair mask to bring back the softness and shine. Bring back the soft glow with a deep pore cleansing and exfoliating facial. Using our organic skin care line Biotique, or our natural line Bioelements, we can take care of all your skin care needs. We have many options for lightening and correcting uneven skin tone. We offer a glycolic treatment for more extensive hyper-pigmentation. Not only can we improve the look and feel of your hair and face, but with a Vichy Shower body treatment we can wash away the dry dead skin build up from your neck to your toes. The 8 shower heads gently create the sensation of a “rain massage” over your entire body. If you’ve never had this treatment before, treat yourself to the relaxation, pampering and results this treatment provides. Very few spas have the state of the art Vichy shower room that offers treatment. Neha Threading Salon and Spa is one of them. They are located in Pikesville. For more info please visit their website www.nehathreading.com.■
About Neha Gupta A talented and well sought out threading technician has plans to take the beauty industry by storm. Neha Gupta took an interest in facial threading in India over 20 years ago. After working in several salons, Neha opened her own location back in 2008. Now she is the successful owner of Neha Threading Salon and Spa in Pikesville MD and a new location in Canton an upscale community located in Baltimore City. Neha introduced a gentle touch combined with a vitalizing Indian head massage to threading. This signature touch to the threading process made Neha and her unique talent stand out amongst others. Neha has plans to expand her business to different areas in Baltimore by opening more locations in the near future. This expansion will enable more people to experience this unique style of threading. December - January 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Submitted by Dr. Corder
youth suicide is
not inevitable:
We Can Help Prevent It
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uicide is the act of deliberately doing harm to oneself with the intention of dying, while understanding the permanence of death. Suicide exclude such acts by those not yet developmentally able to understand the concept of death like young children; developmentally disabled individuals; conditions in which one is in a confused state as in severe intoxication; or acts by those who are permanently cognitive-impaired such as individuals with dementia. Suicide by the Numbers Suicide is a public health concern nationally and internationally. In the US there are over 36,000 suicides annually. Suicide occurs across all ages, economic, social and ethnic boundaries. It is the third leading cause of death for 10-24year- olds, according to the National Center for the Prevention of Youth Suicide. Male youths die of suicide four times more frequently than female youths, although females are more likely to make more attempts. The majority of completed suicide were by firearms. For every completed suicide there are many more suicidal attempts. The National Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that among high school students, about a third had at-
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tempted, made plans for, or seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous year. Military Suicides Suicide has been in the headlines recently because of the alarming rate of suicides among returning troops, as depicted in the August 2012 Time Magazine cover story titled “One a Day�. In Maryland, of the 25 suicides reported in the military, all were under 25 years old. Common Causes Suicide is not a disease. It is a result of many risk factors. Over 90 percent of suicide victims suffer from a significant psychiatric disorder at the time of their death. The most common are mood disorders (disor-
ders involving depression) and substance abuse. These disorders are often undiagnosed and untreated, partly due to inadequate information about them, but also due in large part to the continued misunderstanding and stigma about mental illnesses. Studies have shown that only a third of all those who suffer from depression seek treatment. A depressive episode often affects the mood (persistent sadness). It also affects one’s usual physical or behavior patterns, and may result in fatigue, impaired sleep, or altered eating habits. However the effect on the thought pattern is the most devastating and accounts for suicidal thinking and attempts in severe cases. One often feels
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Suicide is a public health concern nationally and internationally.” inexplicably guilty, hopeless and helpless about situations, and in severe cases concludes they are a burden on others and better off dead. As depression worsens there are recurrent thoughts of death, developing into suicidal thoughts, which may ultimately result in suicidal attempt. Studies show that most people who attempt suicide do not want to die but are unable to see alternatives to their problems. Many initially resist the suicidal impulses with various mental convictions. However, with the severity of depression, even this resistance is not strong enough. Increased Risk Factors People with dependence on alcohol and other drugs, in addition to being depressed, are at greater risk for suicide. Suicide risk during depression may be higher amid heightened anxiety, impaired sleep, irritability and previous suicide attempts, no matter how minor it seemed. Firearms in the household increase the risk of suicide completion. Being isolated is also a risk factor for suicide when depressed. Some exhibit warning signs of suicidal intentions or even talk about it. There is a myth that talking about it means
HEALTH & WELLNESS the person is not serious. Some may become very withdrawn from those around them. In others there are no visible signs. It is therefore important to communicate openly with the young person who appears to be in persistent emotional distress to explore their thoughts. Ways to Prevent Suicide 1. Even though there is a genetic risk for depressive illnesses and it can occur without a specific triggers, it may also be triggered by overwhelming stress related to negative life events. Promotion of adequate coping skills to stressful events may prevent some depressive states. 2. Early recognition and treatment of depressive symptoms is key. In spite of the medical facts, there is still reluctance to seek mental health treatment, mainly due to stigma. Everyone can help erode stigma by dropping derogatory remarks about mental illnesses, often magnified in the media. Development of better attitudes toward mental illnesses will indeed improve the chances of early recognition. 3. Arm yourself with facts about depression. If you suspect your child may be exhibiting some symptoms, have an open discussion in a non-judgmental manner and seek medical help from a mental health clinician, psychiatrist or counselor. If a mental health professional is unavailable, see the family physician immediately. 4. If your child is diagnosed with or exhibiting some signs of depression, be alert to the risk factors of substance abuse, isolation, or visiting social media sites with focus on suicidality, and continue open dialogue. 5. Encourage their friends not to keep secrets about suicide intent but tell a parent or school guid-
ance counselor. Many people have talked about their intent prior to attempting suicide but have sworn friends to secrecy. 6. Remove all firearms from the house. 7. If there is a suspicion, attempt or expression of intent to harm one’s self, get your child to the emergency room right away or call 911. Many people who have had suicidal ideas or even made attempts in the past and have had treatments, go on to live emotionally successful lives.■ For more information about suicide prevention, contact: American Association of Suicidology @ www.suicidology.org 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Prevention of Teen Suicide www.sptsusa.org
Frederick Corder, MD FAAP Dr. Corder attended medical school at Howard University College of Medicine and graduated in 1977. He is board certified by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Corder was formally the Chief Health Officer for Prince George’s County and the medical Director of several health plans. Dr. Corder has been in Pediatric practice for over 35 years. Dr. Corder, his wife Dr. Marilyn Corder ad their daughter Adrienne Corder started the Corder Pounders Youth Fitness program and the Family Fitness Center. Bowie, MD • (301) 805-2229 Cheverly, MD • (301) 341-7494 Children’s Medical Center Washington, DC T: 202-291-0147 December - January 2015
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No More Metal Braces
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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f you are looking for an alternative to metal braces, ClearCorrect is the clear and simple choice. ClearCorrect invisible braces are the clear and simple way to straighten your teeth so that you can show off your smile. No wires. No brackets. Just clear, convenient comfort – giving you every reason to smile. ClearCorrect is an easy and discreet solution to align and straighten a broad range of dental conditions for a stunning, healthy smile. The fact that it does this so well is remarkable; the fact that it does this with little to no effort is almost unbelievable. ClearCorrect is for both adults and teenagers – age is not a problem. Children who might not yet have all of their molars and even seniors with more complicated dental cases may be candidates for ClearCorrect, but should consult with their doctors first. With ClearCorrect, your dentist can straighten your teeth using a series of clear, custom, removable aligners. Each aligner moves your teeth just a little bit at a time until you eventually get straight teeth. And ClearCorrect is one of the clearest aligner systems available. The ClearCorrect aligners offer superior clarity, are virtually invisible and
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By Peter Merai, DDS, FAGD Comprehensive Dental Care, Inc.
unnoticeable, and their smooth surface finish withstands clouding from wear. Schedule an appointment with your dentist so you can have your teeth evaluated and talk about any problems or goals you have for your smile. Once your dentist establishes that ClearCorrect is the right treatment option for you, the dental staff will take impressions, photos, and sometimes X-rays of your teeth. ClearCorrect will then create 3-D models of your teeth. Following the instructions provided by your dentist, ClearCorrect then creates a treatment setup representing the desired position of your teeth at the end of treatment. At the same time, ClearCorrect also manufactures Phase Zero passive aligners designed to fit your teeth and get you accustomed to wearing aligners right away.■
No wires. No brackets. Just clear, convenient comfort – giving you every reason to smile.” If you would like to learn more about ClearCorrect, call your dental office to set up a consultation to see if ClearCorrect addresses your dental concerns and cosmetic goals.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS Getting to the Bottom of Your Food Cravings
Sweet
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ou are what you eat and most importantly, you are what you assimilate. Your food preferences and cravings reveal a great deal about what may be occurring in your body. Cravings may either be a message from your brain revealing how you are feeling or that your body is in need of certain nutrients. At other times, cravings may be due to not getting enough sleep and needing energy or due to dehydration and not drinking enough water, which the body misinterprets as hunger pangs. Lastly, your cravings may not be your own but may be the cause of candida overgrowth or parasites that you host in your body. Here is a look into what some of your food cravings may mean.
Salty
Salty cravings are often associated with chronic stress, which runs havoc on the adrenal glands. Research at University of Utah in Salt Lake City showed that people who take a break to breathe deeply or meditate before reaching for salty snacks reduced their stress hormones by 25% and cut their binging in half.
Sweet cravings are often related to candida, blood sugar fluctuations, and a chromium or tryptophan deficiency. Instead of indulging in sweets, choose fresh fruit, nuts or high-fiber foods like beans, legumes and complex carbohydrates that keep your blood sugar stable. A chocolate craving may mean your body is deficient in magnesium. If you opt for chocolate make sure it is 75% cacao or higher. Other sources higher in magnesium content include Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds and leafy greens.
Carbs
Craving carbohydrates could signify low tryptophan, the precursor to the hormone serotonin, which has a calming feel-good effect. This explains why you crave carbohydrates when you feel anxious and stressed. Satiety after eating comes from making this chemical in the body. Carbohydrates have to be eaten alone or with less than ten percent protein for serotonin to be made. Eat low glycemic carbohydrates such as lentils, beans, whole grains, and high fiber foods.
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Your food preferences and cravings reveal a great deal about what may be occurring in your body.” When it comes to getting to the bottom of your food cravings, there are several approaches available to you. With each craving, first drink an 8-ounce glass of water, wait half an hour and see if your craving goes away. If so, your craving is because of dehydration. To determine if your cravings come from nutrient deficiencies there is a simple nutritional evaluation blood test available. A stool test will determine whether or not your cravings come from either candida or parasites. See your naturopathic doctor to determine which approach is best for you.■
Red Meat
Lastly, cravings for red meat may indicate iron or zinc deficiency. Menstruating women are especially vulnerable to iron deficiencies depending on the heaviness of their menstrual cycles. Whereas zinc plays an important role in immune function and low levels increase susceptibility to colds and flu. Beans, legumes, unsulfured prunes, figs and raisins are high in iron. Shellfish, lentils, spinach and pumpkin seeds are high in zinc.
INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC Snejana Sharkar, RDN, FNP, ACNP & Dr. Isabel Sharkar, ND (t) 202.298.9131 drsharkar@indigohealthclinic.com December - January 2015
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
The Effects of Genetics on Breast Cancer: An Update
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By Kashif Ali, M.D.
In the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women of all races.�
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n the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women of all races. Unfortunately, it is also the second leading cause of cancer death in this gender population. It is estimated that in 2012, About 227,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and about 63,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer (an early form of breast cancer) were diagnosed in this country. This will lead to about 39,500 deaths from breast cancer. In their lifetime, about 1 in 8 (12%) women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer. This is a very chilling statistic, which makes early screening and detection only that much more important. Breast cancers that are discovered at earlier stages have a much higher change of cure and survival. Up to 10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary. These cancers are a result of genetic information passed from a parent to their offspring. Genetic information is passed through chromosomes. During conception, half of the chromosomes are obtained from the mother and half from the father. The genetic information in these chromosomes is encoded in DNA. This DNA contains the instructions for building proteins that make up your body and help with all its functions. Unfortunately, if there is an error, or mutation, in this DNA, that mutation will appear in all the cells produced by that particular DNA.
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Most inherited cases of breast cancer are associated with two abnormal mutations in the DNA: BReast CAncer gene one and BReast CAncer gene two, abbreviated BRCA1 and BRCA2. It is a fact that everyone has BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, since the normal function of the BRCA genes is to repair cell damage and keep breast cells growing normally. This prevents us from developing cancer. But the problem is that when these genes contain abnormalities or mutations , the breast cancer risk increases, since this leads to irregularities with the normal repair mechanism in breast cancer tissue. Abnormal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may account for up to 10% of all breast cancers, or 1 out of every 10 cases. Women having these particular abnormal genes can have up to an 80% risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetimes. Breast cancer in these women is more likely to occur at a younger age, be more aggressive with a higher chance of spreading, and occur in both breasts. Apart from breast cancer these women are also much more likely to develop cancer of the ovary (2nd most common after breast), pancreas, cervix, uterine, colon, stomach, gall bladder, bile duct, thyroid, and a type of skin cancer called melanoma. We all have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 chromosomes, half of which come from our mother and
HEALTH & WELLNESS the other half from our father. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are passed onto children in a autosomal dominant pattern. This means that even if one parent is carrying a mutation on even one of their 46 chromosomes, half of their children will be affected. The BRCA mutation is detected through a blood test collected at your doctor’s office or a lab. Possible women who qualify for BRCA mutation testing include those with a personal or family history of: • • • • • • • • • •
Breast cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger Ovarian cancer at any age Two separate breast cancers in the same person, or two family members with breast cancers on the same side of the family Male breast cancer Triple negative type of Breast Cancer (meaning breast cancer carrying no receptors to target) Pancreatic cancer and a breast or ovarian cancer in the same person, or on the same side of the family Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancers Two or more relatives with breast cancer, one under age 50 Three or more relatives with breast cancer at any age A previously identified BRCA mutation in any member of the family
Dr. Kashif Ali earned his MD degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. While at Seton Hall University, he became the Chief Resident and then went on to complete his training in Hematology and Oncology. During this training he was appointed Chief Fellow. Dr. Ali is presently board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology.
Women who carry a BRCA mutation tend to have breast cancers that are triple negative. Triple negative breast cancers are: Estrogen receptor-negative, Progesterone receptor-negative, and HER2/neu-negative. This means there is no receptor on the outside of the cancer cell to target during treatment. These cancers also tend to be more aggressive and have a high chance of metastasis (meaning spread to other parts of the body). To bring some positive light to this discussion, a recent study at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center showed that triple-negative breast cancer patients with BRCA mutations experienced a significantly lower chance of the cancer coming back after completing treatment. Also a new class of drugs, called PARP inhibitors, have shown promise in BRCA mutations and/or triple negative breast cancers. Even women who were treated with and failed multiple prior chemotherapies responded favorably to these new agents. In conclusion, it is imperative that women at risk for carrying the deleterious BRCA mutations be identified prior to the development of a BRCA-associated cancer. In the event that this mutation is detected after the development of cancer, then she be treated with the most up-to-date, new, and robust treatments that oncologists have to offer at this time.■ December - January 2015
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Burn 100 Calories in LESS than 30 Minutes
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By Vernise L. Burs PT, CSCI
et’s get up and be active! Plain and simple inactively contributes to weight gain and even obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, cancer, stroke, heart disease and even death. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2011, there was 128,932 stroke related deaths; 596,577 heart related deaths and 576,691 cancer related dates. Get to know your BMI. Body mass index (BMI) is a mathematical equation that is based upon your weight and height; it is used to determine your health status. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is normal weight, 25 to 29.9 is over-weight, 30 to 34.9 is mild obesity, 35 to 39.9 is moderate obesity and 40 or greater is severe obesity. What is your BMI? We can minimize our risk for various medical conditions by getting up out of our seats to move! DID YOU KNOW 20 MINUTES OF BRISK WALKING BURNS 100 CALORIES AND 30 MINUTES BURNS 150 CALORIES? Below are 15 easy ways to burn 100 calories in less than 30 minutes! • Brisk walking: 20 minutes • Biking: 23 minutes casual cycling • Cardio dance class: 15 minutes • Elliptical: 8 minutes • Squats: Perform 20 repetitions
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• March/Jog in place: 1 minute • Push-ups: 10 repetitions • Pilates: 24 minutes • Rowing machine: 13 minutes • Running stairs: 6 minutes • Swimming: 15 minutes moderate intensity • Walking stairs: 11 minutes • Water aerobics: 23 minutes • Yoga: 20 minutes • Zumba: 11 minutes Don’t Be A Statistic! GET UP AND MOVE. JUST MOVE! I challenge you to do 1 to 3 different exercises 3 or more times this week. JUST MOVE! I dare you. JUST MOVE! However, if you have mobility issues, physical limitations and previous sports injuries that are keeping you from being as active as you desire there are solutions. Make an appointment with our office for an evaluation. Most insurances are accepted, as well as Health Savings Plans.■
2530 N. Charles Street, Suite 102 Baltimore MD 21218 / (410)889-7872
A Primer on Stress:
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Just for the Holidays! H By Alan Weiss, M.D.
ere we go into the holiday season with all the activities, get-togethers, and parties that go along with that. Of course, however, along with the joyful aspects come increased levels of stress, indulging in food and drink, and (often) more excuses to not exercise and disruptions to our routines. So what is stress? The notion of the stress response was pioneered by Hans Selye, who came up with the different phases of the stress response. He made it clear that it is NOT “all in your head” but that stress has a real physiological effect that can have negative effects on our well-being. Of course what is stressful for one person may not be for another, so certainly the experience of stress has something to do not just with the circumstances but with the person experiencing the circumstance. However none of us is impervious, so it is useful both to understand what happens when we are stressed and what we can do about it. The stress response is largely regulated by a gland in the brain called the hypothalamus which receives signals from other parts of the brain that are designed to perceive stress. When stress signals are activated, both the brain and they hypothalamus (via the pituitary gland) send signals to the adrenal gland to produce cortisol and adrenaline. Thus when people are stressed in the short term, they are more focused, awake, the heart beats faster, muscles contract, and blood pressure and blood sugar rise to meet the demand. But when stress becomes a chronic situation, unwanted effects begin to occur. We begin to get fatigued, crave sugar, get depressed, gain weight, lose muscle mass, have our sleep wake cycles disrupted, get achy, eat poorly…and the list goes on. This state is called by some “adrenal fatigue”. The thyroid gland begins to function poorly as do other organs of the body. So how do you deal with this? Limiting stressful situations is an obvious answer. But that is not always possible. And reaching for anti-depressants to solve the issue is also usually not necessary (and often does not work anyway). One of the best ways to calm the stress response is deep breathing, even when done for 3-5 minutes. This can activate the soothing parasympathetic response that lowers blood pressure and respiratory rate. If you exercise, make sure you continue to do so over the holidays. Exercising increases our metabolic rate for
many hours after exercising and can increase levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin. Vitamin D is becoming more and more appreciated for strengthening the immune system and helping brain function and mood. Herbs like rhodiola and ashwaganda can balance the stress response, and other useful natural therapies include theanine, 5-HTP, and GABA. And if all else fails, there is always a trip to the tropics!■ Dr.Weiss completed his undergraduate work at University of Virginia and is a graduate of McGill University Medical School; he completed his Internship at the University of Hawaii and Residency at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Boston. As head of Annapolis Integrative Medicine, Dr. Weiss specializes in preventative health, alternative approaches to wellness, and treating complex issues including CFS and Fibromyalgia.
December - January 2015
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BUSINESS
By The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys Presented by SinclairProsser Law, LLC
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
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s the year draws to an end and the New Year quickly approaches, now is the time to think about resolutions and look towards the future. One New Year’s resolution you should consider this year is to think very long term. Instead of just planning for how you can improve life in the upcoming year, the dawn of a new year is the perfect time to create a concrete plan to take care of your family after you are gone. Here are some statistics to think about: As many as 55% of adults in America have no will or estate plan in place. For minorities, the number is even higher. A full 68% of African American adults and 74% of adult Hispanics have no Will. Without a plan in place, the state (not you) gets to decide how your assets are going to be divided. You’ll have no say over who distributes your assets, or over what happens to your property. (You could also cost your heirs some money or leave your heirs fighting about who inherit what.) So, why don’t more people have a plan? Some don’t know how to create one, while others are hesitant to make the tough choices about how to distribute their assets among those they love. An estate planning attorney can help with the legal process of dividing your assets and can even offer advice on some of the decisions you’ll have to make when planning for life after your death. Creating Your Last Will & Testament There are lots of reasons why people need to create a comprehensive estate plan. While around 59% of people who plan for the future do so in order to avoid probate, limiting family chaos is the second most important reason people cite for engaging in estate planning. Protecting children’s inheritances is a prime goal for around 39% of estate
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planners, while just 34% of people are motivated by minimizing estate taxes. Whatever your reasons for sitting down with an estate planning attorney, some of the key decisions you’ll need to make include: • How to distribute assets: Only 27% of Boomers think about how much money they will leave to others. For millennial children, 31% of whom expect an inheritance averaging over $350,000, this lackadaisical attitude by mom and dad may come as a big shock. • Who will make decisions after your death or disability: You may need to name a Trustee, a personal representative or an executor of your estate as part of your estate plan. You may also want to create a durable power of attorney and designate someone to act as your agent if you remain alive but unable to manage your own affairs. Both of these issues can be really contentious. For example, as Reuters explains, disinheriting a child could lead to a lawsuit to have your plan overturned (especially if the assets in your estate are large enough to make a case worthwhile). At the same time, sometimes leaving your kids an equal amount is not going to be a fair choice either, especially if you have provided more for one of your children over the course of your life than for the others. One article on USA Today, for example, suggested that parents level the playing field at death if they paid more for one child’s education or if one child took care of them at old age. When it comes to naming a Trustee, a personal representative, or an executor, family fighting and chaos could also result if you are not clear on your wishes. Fortunately, an estate planning attorney can help you to overcome the challenges in creating an estate plan.
As you consider the future and set your New Year’s resolutions, put it on your list to talk to your lawyer about how you can create a comprehensive plan that will give you control over your assets and avoid fighting among your loved ones after you are gone. So, this New Year’s, make your resolution one you can keep: resolve to make important decisions now about life after your death.■ SinclairProsser Law, LLC focuses its practice on estate planning & administration, including the interaction of retirement plans & elder law. An established member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys & the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Colleen Sinclair Prosser, Nicole Livingston, Jon J. Gasior & Victor A. Lembo offer years of knowledge & experience in matters associated with protecting estates & families from issues arising from death and disability.
January 2016 SEMINAR SCHEDULE Annapolis Tue., Jan. 12th @7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (Refreshments) Double Tree Hotel Annapolis 210 Holiday Court Pasadena Wed., Jan. 13th @ 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) The Reserve at Two Rivers 4105 Mountain Road MILLERSVILLE Thurs., Jan. 14th @ 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (Refreshments) The Firemark Building 8684 Veterans Hwy., 4th floor EDGEWATER Fri., Jan. 15th @ 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Historic London Town & Gardens Pavilion 839 Londontown Road Bowie Sat., Jan. 16th @ 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Continental Breakfast) Comfort Inn US 50, US 301 @ MD 3
For more info: 410-573-4818
COMMUNITY Founded in 1990, MENTOR Maryland is a leading treatment foster care agency, serving youth with complex behavioral, medical or mental health challenges. We offer a separate and distinct TFC program designed uniquely for Medically Fragile children. We partner with foster parents, called Mentors, to provide safe, loving and nurturing home regardless of the complexity of the child’s needs. For more information, contact Craig Powell at 410.455.4640 or Craig.Powell@TheMentorNetwork.com.
You can Be a
Foster Parent
S
ince 1993 we have helped over 500 medically fragile children receive vital medical care and support in foster homes throughout the state. More than 150 medically fragile children have been adopted by their MENTOR foster parents, while over 250 have successfully reunited with their parents or relatives. This program needs dedicated families willing to partner in its success! The children have conditions ranging from pre-natal drug exposure to the most complex conditions such as ventilator
Our foster parents receive: -Care instruction by our RNs -Assistance making your home wheelchair-accessible -A tax-free stipend ranging from $1975 - $2250 per month
Requirements: -Be at least 21 years old -Have a spare bedroom -Have a driver’s license & vehicle -Identify a back-up person for support (spouse, relative or friend)
“
ALL of them have the potential to thrive by becoming part of a loving family.” dependence. Other common health issues include seizure disorders, cerebral palsy, shaken baby syndrome, and HIV/ AIDS. Many of the children placed with us also have developmental delays, autism, or some degree of intellectual disability. ALL of them have the potential to thrive by becoming part of a loving family! MENTOR’s Medically Fragile program specializes in providing treatment foster care for the State’s most medically vulnerable children. This highly comprehensive service line offers children from birth to 21 a home setting as an alternative to hospital or group care. In our foster homes, each child benefits from one-to-one nurturing, medical care and social stimulation provided by foster parents who are specially equipped with support from our program’s team of nurses and social workers.■
MENTOR Maryland 5720 Executive Drive, Baltimore, MD 21228 Call or email 410.455.4640 / craig.powell@thementornetwork.com December - January 2015
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COMMUNITY
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Mixed Green salad with
Lacinato Kale Ingredients Your Choice of Nutrient Rich Greens 1/2 Bunch of washed and shredded Kale 1 Apple chunk diced, 3 grapes sliced 1/2 pecan crushed, Sweet pepper, Onion Dressing Balsamic vinegar – 3 tbs. Dijon mustard – 1 tbs. Honey – 1 tbs. Olive oil – 6 tbs. Preparation Mix everything together and add salad dressing. Yum!■
December - January 2015
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COMMUNITY
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Lentil Stew
Ingredients 2 cups of yellow or green lentil beans 1 can of tomato 1 medium onion 1 bell peppers (you may use organic salsa for the tomato, onion and bell pepper) 2 cups of butternut squash 1 cup of diced carrots 1/2 bunch of steamed collard greens 2 garlic cloves Add salt, pepper Preparation 1. Mash butternut squash & black beans once soft boiled 2. Mix cooked lentils into squash and black bean sauce 3. Let stew for 15 min stir and add water as needed.â–
Learn to prepare healthy food that taste good. Take a Cooking Class ...It’s Fun!
GoCooKVEGAN 301-887-7901
www.gocookvegan.com Register@gocookvegan.com www.facebook.com/gocookvegan December - January 2015
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Dyson Baltimore Grand Opening Celebration Offering Free Cooking Class & Wine Tasting RSVP required DYSON Vacuum repair, maintenance and retail store We’re there if you want help from Dyson experts with your current machine, are interested to find out more about what we do, or are thinking about upgrading.
We are open 5 days a week Monday through Friday 9am to 5:30pm. We are located in the Rolling Road Commerce Center behind the 7-11, about 1.5 miles north of I-70 and 1 mile west of I-695 2707 N. Rolling Rd, Suite 103 Baltimore, MD 21244
(410) 277-8810 SPECIAL TRADE IN SALE Bring in any old brand of vacuum cleaner or your old Dyson for trade in and get a 5%-50% trade in allowance towards a new state of the art DYSON
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It is $38.99 for one year or $50.00 for two years
Mail your check or money order to: 8181 Professional Pl., Ste 206, Landover, MD 20785 Subscribe @ Womensjournalmd@gmail.com Blog: wojotalk.com
The Women’s Journal Newspaper is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect The Women’s Journal Newspaper. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal Newspaper is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Women’s Journal Newspaper, its owners, publishers, and employees, against any and all liability,
loss or expense arising out of claims for libel, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publication of this newspaper or its advertising copy. The Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable by reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. The Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication and/or distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The Publisher will exercise reasonable judgment in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Women’s Journal Newspaper assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers.This newspaper will be published by the 15th of every other month. Representations by The Women’s Journal™ READERSHIP 250,000 December - January 2015
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Paint & Sip & Sample
Learn a few basic principals of water color while sipping sangria and sampling tasty bites
Take home your creation $20 Per Person Purchase online at www.gocookvegan.com 301-888-7901
Why Should You Advertise Your Business in the
Women’s Journal ?
“The Women’s Journals have been the single most effective media for our demographic, females age 25-65. The Return on Investment is VERY, VERY high and I highly encourage you to try them.” Dr. Jonathan Calure, Maryland Vein Professionals
As a Certified Holistic Health Coach, doing business with the Women’s Journal is great! I received a large corporation client, requesting paid wellness workshops to educate their employees, what a way to start the year off! Melanie Harris, Founder of Healthy By Choice DC
“I am very pleased with the results. I got seven new clients the very first week. I felt famous in my community. The Women’s Journal helped me to realize my life long dream of owning a successful business.” Chef K. Blair, Cuisine Liberte
“A priceless educational vehicle to allow patients quality, objective information about our various procedures.” Andrejs V. Strauss, M.D., Dir. of Oncology, Beebe Medical Center
We received a number of requests for travel from the Holiday edition of the Women’s Journal but we were overly excited to plan an entire 2016 family reunion from a reader. Yeah!!! Couldn’t be happier with our results each time we advertise in the Journal. Maleka Green, Green Family Travel “The test coverage on editorials is worth something above and beyond regular advertising.” P.J. Boatwright, V.P., Custom Projects for Fortune Group
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“People show up with the coupon from the paper, and they are ready to buy. My editorial get’s a lot of attention and it works. I am happy.” Anita Hampton, Hair Fantasy “Outstanding readership and patient response to our articles.” Richard J. McCann, D.M.D., P.A. “The best customer response our company has ever had from advertising.” Joan Carrero, Director of Marketing, NASE Insurance
Your Business Card ad could be here for $100 For more information, contact the Women’s Journal at 866-517-5049
December - January 2015
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THE WEIGHT LOSS COACH Get slim and tone in 30 days Enjoy our delicious food or enjoy your own food!
Weekly program $80
Stay slim and trim full body wrap $125 Vitamin detoxification body-rub $50 Baltimore, DC and Virginia location
1-877-333-4561
Women’s Wellness Group Meeting Every Wednesday Night
Talk to medical professionals about your health Feeling sluggish, and tired? ● Wake up feeling energized ● Stubborn areas of fat? Shrink tummy fat without surgery ● Loose skin and wrinkles? ● Look younger Spider Veins? ● Love your legs again Attend a free seminar to find out how we may be able to help ... RSVP 1-877-333-4561