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Page 1: healthfile
Page 2: healthfile

2 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

• 3 Board Certifications*• Sports Medicine• Doctor for National Motocross & Supercross Series

• Ankle & Foot Injuries & Deformities• Reconstructive & Trauma Surgery• Heel Pain / Bunions / Hammer Toes• Examiner for Podiatric Medical Boards

Same Day Appointments Available, Se Habla EspañolVisit www.AnkleAndFootSurgery.net

John F. TorregrosaJohn F. Torregrosa

8151 Overseas HighwaySuite #5

Marathon, FL 33050(305)853-5151

91550 Overseas HighwaySuite #107

Tavernier, FL 33070(305)853-5151

925 NE 30th Terrace, #102S. Fla. International OrthopaedicsHomestead, FL 33033(305)247-1701

*Certified in Reconstructive Rear Foot/Ankle Surgery.

369720 HF

John F. Torregrosa, D.P.M.Ankle & Foot Surgeon

Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopaedic Medicine

Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

“We’ll Treat Any Problem Below the Knee”

Each person has unique

health challenges.

Let me fi nd a way

that fi ts you.

Se habla español.

Dr. May. The Doctor that listens to you!

I CAN NOT PROMISE YOU30 lbs. IN 30 DAYS.

But I can help you achieve

weight loss that can last forever.

SUSANA MAY, MD, MPHDiplomate, American Board of Family Medicine

Keys to Wellness Medical Center at the Pink Plaza103400 O/S Hwy, Ste. 241, Key Largo, MM 103

(305) 852-8670 www.susanamaymd.com 3697

30

ROBERTO I. ALONSO

If you are an employer and have 50 or more full time employees, those

working 30 hours a week or an equivalent amount, you will have to provide health insurance or pay a penalty.

As an employer, you should start developing a plan and you should have started a dialogue with your advisors and your local health insurance agent as to how to keep health benefits costs within acceptable levels to your budget and how to communicate to your

employees their options when January of 2014 rolls around.

Some employers are considering lowering benefits or asking employees to pick up a bigger share of the more expensive plan offerings in their group. Other employers plan to carefully monitor how the exchanges will function in the fall, and then decide how a “mixed approach” might play out in their business.

Kind of a “measure twice and cut once” stance.• Individuals will need to know about the insurance exchanges and be well

acquainted with their employer sponsored health insurance benefits as they will also be facing an individual mandate to carry insurance or face paying a penalty also. • Individuals also should become very familiar with the tax credits or subsidies that will be offered for them to shop the exchanges once they are up and running come 10/01/2013. Will it be financially more sensible to opt out of their group coverage to shop for an individual plan in the exchange? • If you are an employer, it does not matter if small or large, you’ll need to place greater emphasis on the group plan’s wellness and preventive benefits to achieve long term cost savings for

your group. There are many ways that you can incentivize your employees to take full advantage of these benefits. Not to mention you’ll have a healthier workforce.• Employers should look into raising their employee’s level of awareness when it comes to alternative medical delivery systems now becoming increasingly popular. Telemedicine, Surgical Centers of Excellence, Urgent Care Centers, Medical Homes, just to mention a few.

What to do about your health benefits will be one of the biggest decisions you will be making this year either as the owner of a company or as an individual, you have 12 months to do it. Let’s get going!

Health Law provisions for 2014: Things you should know and do now

Metro Services

Page 3: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 3

contents

• Paul Clarin Publisher •

• Edgardo Alvarado-Vazquez Layout and Design •

• Tommy Todd Advertising Director •

• Randy Erickson V.P. of Operations •

health fi le january 2013 A COOKE COMMUNICATIONS LLC PUBLICATION

Health Law Provisions for 2014 ............................... 2Doing Away with Dentures, Partials, Bridges ............ 4The Silent Thief of Sight .......................................... 5Outdoor Circuit Training and You .............................. 6Pets and Your Health ..........................................10Infl ammatory Bowel Disease ...............................12Prevent Running Injuries .....................................14Oral Cancer Screening Discussed at Seminar ......18Skin Health ........................................................19

Illness and Your Job Performance ........................20Cataracts and Hip Fractures ...............................21Mold and Your Health .........................................22Statins and Women’s Health ...............................23The 411 on Carcinogens .....................................24Prunes as Superfood ..........................................26What is Hypnosis? ..............................................28Make Healthy Seafood Choices ...........................30Can diet soda cause weight gain? .......................31

Lola and Chico Certified Itchy Approved

Page 4: healthfile

4 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

Defy Gravity at Body Owners with our New Anti- Gravity Treadmill!

Rehab and Train Without The Pain!Gait Training for Neurologic Patients Weight Control and Reduction

5450 MacDonald Ave., Suite 1www.bodyownersphysicaltherapy.com

305-294-8866Now Taking Blue Cross Blue Shield 3

72

19

0 H

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PLANTATION KEY HEALTH & REHABILITATION, LLC

An Alternative to Hospital ReadmissionWe are your extended family of caregivers.

Providing Your Loved Ones with both Short and Long Term Rehabilitation Services. For more information, please contact

Cynthia Pimentel (Director Of Marketing)Cell: 305-712-0280 Ph: 305-853-0799

Fax: 305-853-575248 High Point Rd, #88.5, Tavernier, FL 33070 371684 HF

BY WILLIAM TYCOLIZ

Well, maybe not yet, but stem cell dental implants could be

what allows this to take place in the near future. Stem cell research in dentistry has been going on for years worldwide and some interesting uses have resulted with respect to tooth replacement.

At Columbia University, research by a Dr. Mao in 2010 stated that a tooth could be grown in a tooth socket in nine weeks. Instead of a lab grown tooth, Dr. Mao uses the body’s own capabilities to direct the stems to grow a tooth.

At the University of

California, San Francisco, a Dr. Klein has been doing research with stem cells to grow natural tooth implants. These implants would have to be surgically placed. Dr. Klein believes that a partially grown tooth could be implanted and would continue to grow as another alternative. He also feels that stem cells could be used to repair existing teeth.

At Guy’s Hospital in the UK, Professor Sharpe was able to use human stem cells in mice to grow a human tooth. He has patented a process which allows stems cells in the bone marrow to grow teeth. The Odontis company was formed because of this. The company calls their product Biotooth.

The simplified process is that the dentist would collect a cell sample: hair follicle, fat cells, tooth pulp for example. These cells would be sent to laboratory where they would be processed into a Biotooth. The Biotooth bud would be returned to the dentist who would then place it into the patient’s jaw. The current estimated success is around 80%. The company states that the resulting tooth could require orthodontic treatment to reach the desired position.

These uses of stem cells are fascinating and hold

much promise for providing alternatives to current methods of tooth replacement. With the necessity of human trials and the time needed to see if the processes will cause any harm it will still be a good number of years before dentists will be doing this on a regular basis.

The information in this article was obtained from http: / /www.o s s e o t e c h . c o m / i n d e x .php?do=comments&bid=201 and http://www.udent.com/dental-article/articleid/3991/stem-cell-dental-implants-a-future-dental-technology.aspx

Doing away with dentures, partials and bridges

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HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 5

3721

54 H

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Clinic Of Alternative MedicineDr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P.

Your source for Holistic Healing

We have a full staff of professionals available• Acupuncture • Corrective Skin Care• Therapeutic Massage • Natural Weight Loss• Refl exology • Herbs• Vitamin Injections

WE TAKE MOST INSURANCEFind us on Facebook

Call Today for an AppointmentProudly serving the Key West community for over

20 years.

Phone: 305-296-53583420 Duck Ave.

Key West, FL 33040www.clinicofalternativemedicine.com

Paradise Dental CareDR. BILL GOLDNER &DR. KENDALL JONES

Now offering Saturday Appointments!

DR. BILL GOLDNERprovides

SHORT TERM ADULT ORTHODONTICSFOR SMILE IMPROVEMENT!

Please call, or visit www.6MonthBracesKeyWest.com

Paradise Dental Care1460 Kennedy Dr. at Flagler Ave. • 305.293.9876

www.ParadiseDentalCare.com358671 HF

BY HARRY LANDSAW, O.D.

It can come with no warning and no noticeable symptoms.

It has no class, economical, gender limitations. It is the second most common cause of blindness in the United States. “IT” is Glaucoma, the Silent Thief of Sight, according to Dr. Harry Landsaw, Optometric Physician working in the upper Florida Keys.

“January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month and we encourage all people, especially those at higher risk for this disease, to familiarize themselves with the potential symptoms and need for regular eye examinations” Dr. Landsaw said. “A regular eye examination is especially critical since a person with early-stage Glaucoma may not notice any symptoms at all.”

Dr. Landsaw added that while the early stage symptoms may not be noticeable, persons with more advanced Glaucoma may notice blurred vision, the presence of halos around lights, loss of peripheral

vision and difficulty focusing on objects.

“Glaucoma affects an estimated 4 million Americans,” Dr. Landsaw said. Some people are more at risk than others.

Those at higher risk include:•People over the age of 60•African-Americans over age

40•People with diabetes •Individuals that have

experienced a serious eye injury

•Anyone with a family history of glaucoma“While there is no cure for

Glaucoma, early detection and treatment can slow or prevent further vision loss,” Dr. Landsaw said. “First and foremost in the process is a comprehensive eye health exam by your family eye doctor.”

Dr. Harry Landsaw owns and practices with his wife, Dr. Jannah Landsaw, at Landsaw Eyecare located at 91284 Overseas Highway in Tavernier and is a member of Vision Source, the nation’s number one network of private practice optometrists.

Are you at risk for the silent thief of sight?

There is no cure for Glaucoma but, early detection and treatment can slow or prevent further vision loss. First and foremost in the process is a comprehensive eye health exam by your family eye doctor.

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6 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

Key Largo: 305-451-0090Key West: 305-296-9392Marathon: [email protected]

Florida Blue is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Some policies have exclusions and limitations. For costs and complete details of coverage, call the insurance agent. 74902-1012 Agt

Se Habla Español.

3697

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Obstetrics & Gynecology

Most Health Insurance Plans Accepted1111 12th Street Suite 104 Key West

305-293-1830to schedule an appointment

Normal & High Risk PregnanciesMenopausal MedicineAbnormal BleedUrinary Incontinence Chronic Pelvic Painda Vinici® Surgery System Trained

Gregory A. DeLong, M.D., FACOGBoard Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecologyda Vinci® surgery system trained

Dr. DeLong would like to welcome Kathy Millis, Certified Nurse Midwife with nearly 30 years of nursing experience to his practice.

Beth Rodriguez, CNM

359415HF

ALBERT HERASME Certified Personal trainer

Looking to invigorate your exercise routine? Tired of the monotony

of the gym and the lack of challenge in your daily workouts? Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a weekend warrior or just getting started with physical activity, outdoor circuit training is a great way to challenge both your body and mind while boosting the fun factor by 100%.

Outdoor circuit training is an opportunity to let loose and push your body to its limit. You’re not locked into the gym machines, or to your set routine of weights

and reps. Think of this as an opportunity to try something new and get creative about challenging your body.

What is circuit training you may ask? Circuit training is a combination of strength training, with endurance and/or cardiovascular training sprinkled in. This allows you to work your aerobic system while simultaneously working on your overall strength, stability and balance. With the moderate pace of the training as well as the full-range-of-motion of the exercises that you perform within the training, tendons and ligaments stay flexible and strong as well, greatly reducing the risk

of injuries. Since you are constantly progressing through the workout, you will keep your heart rate up, therefore gaining the same benefits as the guy who runs all those miles on the treadmill. However, you will be constantly stimulating your mind and body, which helps keep boredom at bay.

Circuit training can be performed by a single person or by a group of people who rotate among different training stations/exercises. This type of training targets the whole body in a single session. It can be accommodated to any person’s fitness level, health status, and age. The exercises are easy to implement in succession and be performed with correct technique and form throughout the session.

You will find that circuit training is a great way to exercise without the need for heavy equipment (many of the exercises focus on using

your own body weight for resistance). An example of an exercise rotation can include (but not limited to) push-ups, sit-ups or crunches, jumping jacks, and squat thrusts or lunges. In cases like this, a person or group performs as many repetitions (reps) of an exercise (for example crunches) as possible during a fixed time period, before moving to the next exercises set (another example push-up). Between exercises, there is a 20 to 60 second recovery time allotted, but never more

Outdoor Circuit Training and You

Albert discusses with a trainee the proper use of the resistance bands.

Page 7: healthfile

A New Year Deserves A New You!

Key West Orthopedics, P.A.Specializing in

Board Certifi ed Orthopedic Surgeons

Robert Catana, D.O.

Advanced Sports Medicine

& Joint Replacement

David C. Perry, M.D.

Latest Techniques in Arthroscopic & Reconstructive Surgery and

Anti-Aging MedicineOn site MRI & Physical Therapy

ANTI-AGING CENTER• Hormone & Plasma Therapy

• Vitamins & Weight Loss• Laser Light Therapy• Laser Hair Removal• Smoking Cessation• Skinfi nite Skincare

305-295-97973428 N. Roosevelt Boulevard

www.keywestorthopedics.com

ADVANCED SKIN CARE & SPACreated in Key West

skinfi nite

www.skinfi nite.com

358670 HF

than that, as the target heart rate would go down. It’s going to be less about volume than your typical gym workouts, and more about overall exertion of your body.

A workout plan can also be constructed by using sand bags, elastic resistance bands, battle-ropes and/or a weighted medicine ball. Circuit training can also follow a specific theme, such as combining different Pilate’s exercises or using boxing techniques. Because this type of exercise can be adapted to use any type of equipment available or lack thereof, it is often the program of choice for people who want to work out outdoors.

Outdoor circuit training programs often take an average of 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and offer the same advantages as a regular workout would provide. They can be catered to a specific sport or outdoor activity. This also means that they are an excellent choice for people who cannot afford to spend two or three hours at the gym on a regular basis. Participants normally work in small groups. Because of this, beginners to circuit training benefit from both the

more experienced members as well as the supervision of the certified instructor. And still challenge the more season members in the group with modifications to the exercises.

Circuit training is an efficient and effective way of training that offers something different from your normal workouts. What’s more, within a group atmosphere this adds a level of enjoyment and at the same time enhances motivational levels, as no one wants to perform badly at any given station (Always be Competitive)! As long as you think about your end training goal and specific requirements then circuit training can definitely work for you.

So what are you waiting for? Improve your endurance and strength. Kick start your metabolism to lose those unwanted pounds. Add excitement to your current exercise routine with outdoors circuit training and challenge yourself beyond your current fitness level. With motivation, perseverance and guidance, you can achieve your fitness goals. And outdoor Circuit Training could be just the thing you’re looking for.

Albert and his trainies demonstrate different excercises during the morning routine.

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 7

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8 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

359095 HF

Page 9: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 9

EXPLODEDA lump of plaque has

in your coronary artery

suffocating irreplaceable

heart tissue, slowly & painfully.

You’re having a heart attack.

Emergency Rooms.to start comparing

THIS IS NO TIME

During a heart attack, every second is critical. First think 911. Then think ER Extra®, where our emergency

team of heart attack and stroke experts is armed with the most advanced protocols and equipment.

Real emergencies need real emergency care.

5900 College Road, Key West

305-294-5531

LKMC.com

359408HF

359408HF

Page 10: healthfile

10 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

New Leaf proudly offers Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm®, Radiesse®, and Belotero®

The Only Portrait Skin Resurfacing and Tightening System in the Keys!See the Difference New Leaf Can Make! www.newleafkeywest.com

5450 Mac Donald Ave Suite 4

Key West

Pink Plaza Suite 241 Key Largo

Renee Grier, ARNP

3586

72 H

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New YearNew LeafNew You!

IT’S OFFICIAL!New Leaf Skincare is the #1 provider of Cosmetic Injectables in the Keys;

The Third Year in a Row!Who do you want doing YOUR Injections?

IT’S OFFICIAL!New Leaf Skincare is the #1 provider of Cosmetic Injectables in the Keys;

The Third Year in a Row!Who do you want doing YOUR Injections?

& FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 305-509-2550

METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

Rather than heading to the pharmacy for solutions to common ailments, a majority of people may be able to stop at the nearest pet store or animal shelter and find a finned or furry remedy instead.

Studies that link positive health benefits to pet ownership abound. According to WebMD, one study found that 48 stockbrokers who adopted a pet experienced lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did people who did not own pets. Another study found that individuals suffering from serious diseases, such

as cancer or AIDS, are far less likely to e x p e r i e n c e d e p r e s s i o n if they have a strong tie to a pet. Plus, pets have proven beneficial to seniors struggling with loneliness.

Any pet can try a person’s patience at times, especially when a kitty has used a sofa as a scratching post or when a pooch needs to be let into the yard at 3 a.m. But for many pet owners, the benefits of having a pet far outweigh the negatives. Here are some of the many ways that pet

ownership can be good for your health.

• Lower blood pressure: Petting a dog or cat can lower

blood pressure, as can watching a fish swim

around a tank. Those with hypertension may want to

p u r c h a s e or adopt a

c o m p a n i o n animal to help

lower their blood pressure.

• Reduce stress: Stress is something people face on a daily basis. According to a National Health Interview Survey, 75 percent of the general population experiences at least “some stress” every two weeks, and many times that stress is moderate to severe. Research has indicated that when people spend time with a pet their levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, is lowered while their level of serotonin, a hormone associated with improved

mood and well-being, is increased.

• Lower cholesterol: Lifestyle factors associated with pet ownership, particularly a focus on increased physical health and activity, can help lower cholesterol levels. Also, having a pet works to reduce stress, which may keep individuals from looking to fatty foods as sources of alleviating anxiety.

• Fight depression: Many therapists have prescribed pet therapy as a method to alleviating and recovering from depression. A pet is an unconditional friend and can provide that listening ear a person needs to talk through problems. Also, walking and taking care of a pet devotes attention away from problems and inward thinking.

• Improve physical activity levels: Heading to the gym is one way to get a workout, but spending an hour walking the dog or tossing around a ball for a game of chase and fetch is another way to get the heart pumping. Many

Ways pets could improve personal health

Edgardo Alvarado

Pets adopted from the local shelter bring home another level of love and understanding. Lola and Chico rule the sofa of this home.

Page 11: healthfile

know innovation.know expertise.know hearts.We

Manuel Gonzalez, M.D., MPH, FACCInterventional Cardiology & Vascular Medicine305-294-4460

We welcome our newest interventional cardiology specialist.

1200 Kennedy Drive, Key West

When it comes to caring for your heart, you want a cardiologist who is compassionate and experienced. Dr. Gonzalez can provide the full spectrum of heart care right here in the Keys—no need to drive to Miami. He is dedicated to caring for your heart because every heart is vital to our community. We know hearts.

Giovanni Campanile, M.D.FACC, FSCAI

Interventional Cardiology305-294-4460

Michael E. McIvor, M.D.FACC, FSCAI

Clinical Cardiology305-292-5876

359410

dog owners benefit from the “forced” exercise that goes with daily walks. Some people choose to exercise with their pets, enjoying the companionship and the physical activity.

• Reduce stroke incidences: There has been evidence that cat owners are less likely to suffer strokes than people who do not have cats. Researchers are not sure of the connection, but surmise that cats have a more calming nature than other types of pets.

• Greater opportunities for socialization: Humans are social animals and need to interact with others. Pet owners have a tendency to want to share time and experiences with other pet owners. Pets can provide opportunities for people to get together.

• ADHD therapy: Children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder often benefit from working with a pet or having a pet as a family companion. Playing with a pet is a great way to release excess energy and focus on tasks. Also, a pet with his or her unconditional love can help someone with ADHD

overcome self-esteem issues. Similar results are possible when pets are used as therapy animals for children with autism and other behavioral disabilities.

• Reduce propensity for allergies: Children who grow up in homes with cats and dogs are less likely to develop common allergies and even asthma, research suggests. In fact, children who live around two or more dogs or cats before their first birthday are less likely to have allergies of any sort, according to a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association.

Research presented at the 10th International Conference on Human Animal Interaction found pet owners were the least likely to have to visit the doctor. The survey of more than 11,000 respondents from Australia, China and Germany found that over a five-year period pet owners made 15 to 20 percent fewer annual visits to the doctor than non-pet owners.

The companionship and love pets provide could be a key benefit in promoting good personal health.

Edgardo Alvarado

A pet eases the tension of a high volume

production area. At the Key West

Citizen, Itchy supervises the

Composing Department.

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 11

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12 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

366506 HF

BY DR. ASHLEY HOYTAcupuncture Physician

Inflammatory Bowel Disease has been on the up rise over the past two

to three decades.Some studies suggest

that the number of cases diagnosed in industrialized countries in the past thirty years has doubled. Two of the most common disorders are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. One of the common pre-cursors to these illnesses is a weakened immune system.

The immune system

protects the body from infections, harmful bacteria, and even cancer cells. In IBD, the body mistakes food, bacteria, and other materials as a foreign substance, attacking it with white blood cells in the lining of the intestines, leading to chronic inflammation. This chronic inflammation causes the lining of the digestive tract to be more permeable to toxins, which enter directly into the bloodstream, causing toxic build up and inflammation to become systemic.

Common symptoms of Chrohn’s disease are related

to the digestive tract and include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and bleeding. However, because of this systemic effect, the joints, eyes, skin, and other organ systems can also be affected. Fatigue is a common complaint and there is an increased risk of cancer.

Dealing with IBD symptoms, as with any chronic illness, can be difficult as the symptoms often interfere with the affected person’s quality of life, with a negative impact on social, family, and work relationships. Anxiety and depression may result as multiple dimension of the person’s life is affected.

Traditional medicine to treat IBD’s is limited to antibiotics, immune modifiers, and steroids. Because of the negative side effects of these drugs, which can include suppressing the immune system, increasing the chances of infection, and decreasing the amount of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract, many people are turning to Alternative Medicine to treat these digestive disorders. More than half of all patients afflicted have tried homeopathic treatments or alternative therapies with successful results. Natural supplementation, such as probiotics, proves beneficial in most patients, as do activated charcoal and black walnut extract. Although there are general guidelines for dietary recommendations, everyone responds individually. Keeping a food journal can be

essential in discovering which health plan is best for you.

The focus in Alternative Medicine is to strengthen the immune system. By revitalizing the body’s natural healing capability, it can heal itself with no negative side effects. A recent study published in Digestion: Journal of International Gastroenerology concluded that Acupuncture is effective in decreasing the disease symptoms, and increasing general well being and energy. Unlike patients who are managing their illness with medications, acupuncture patients do not experience negative side effects, and both The National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization endorse Acupuncture as effective for the treatment of digestive problems.

Nutrition is also important. Studies suggest that people who include high percentages of processed foods or foods that are high in saturated fat and sugar have a higher chance of developing or exacerbating Crohn’s disease. Luckily, certain foods have been reported to reduce symptoms. Eating fruits and vegetables, lowering fat, and eliminating sugar may help. Vegetables may be steamed, baked, or pureed if fiber triggers flare-ups. Foods that are known to be high in antioxidants, such as blueberries, cherries, squash and slow cooked root vegetables are recommended, as well as foods high in B vitamins, calcium, and

Inflammatory Bowel Disease on the up rise, what you need to know

Page 13: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 13

367253 HF

We’ve got the ABC’s covered!

Adolescents, Babies and Children

Stanley Sack, MD, FAAPBoard Certified Pediatrician

For All Of Your Pediatric Routine And Urgent Needs.

Accepting most major insurances, includingBCBS, Aetna, Staywell Healthy Kids, and Cigna

We’re located at 1201 White Street, Suite 103(at Catherine, behind Coldwell Banker,

parking available)

305.295.PEDS (7337)

magnesium, and dark leafy greens, like kale. There have been cases that have gone into remission after eating a temporary diet of steamed kale. Caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco should be avoided, along with refined foods, including white bread and pasta. Coconut products such as oil, milk and water have natural anti- spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. This soothes irritated smooth muscle and stops abdominal cramping. It is recommended that the only oil used to cook with is coconut oil. The molecule of coconut oil is very small and high in lauric acid. This dissolves the lipid layer of viruses, bacteria and pathogens and therefore effectively destroys them. Avocado is another delicious and beneficial food to explore for IBD patients. It is high in soluble fiber, which is gentler to a compromised digestive system.

There are many theories as to what causes Crohn’s disease and other digestive illnesses, ranging from the increased use of antibiotics to dietary changes, which people have experienced over the last few decades. It is questionable whether genetically engineered foods play a role in compromised digestive systems, especially over time. Genetics also plays a role. We know that symptoms can be managed with the use of traditional medications. However many are turning to alternative medicine, including acupuncture, Chinese medicine and dietary changes to not only reduce symptoms but promote healing, boost the immune system, and decrease inflammation, with the added benefit of no negative side

effects.Food being an integral part

of our life and health, it is important to make healthy choices, but it can also be fun and even simple. Try some delicious steamed kale drizzled with organic coconut oil, or sprinkle some curry powder on a fresh cubed avocado.

For a real treat that will settle the tummy, check out this recipe for coconut macaroons!

4 egg whites3 1/2 cups large coconut

chips1/2 maple syrup2 teaspoons pure vanilla

extract1/4 teaspoon salt2/4 tablespoons of Maca

powderCombine all ingredients in

a heat proof stainless steel mixing bowl. Set bowl in wide skillet of barely simmering water. Mix ingredients with a spatula thoroughly for 5-7 minutes. Set batter aside for 30 minutes to let coconut absorb. Preheat oven to 350º. Use 2 tablespoons of batter

to make heaps 2 inches apart on parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake for 5 minutes until slightly browned. Lower

the temperature to 325* and bake for 10-15 minutes. Let cool, gently peel off parchment paper and enjoy!

Metro Services

Page 14: healthfile

14 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

369712 HF

HEATHER M SMITH MPT, MTC

Today over 36 million Americans are involved in running

competitively each year. Of these people 46-65% of these runners find themselves getting injured. One researcher found that an average 150 lb. person competing in a marathon absorbs 12 million pounds of pressure of impact per year. Despite that much impact and force on the knees, hips and spine; there are many ways to avoid injury. The most common running injuries are in the knees, with about 42% of injuries occurring at the knee with patella femoral

syndrome, IT band syndrome and patella tendinitis. Other common injuries include plantar fasciitis, shin splints, achilles tendinitis, and stress fractures. There are new findings that running can also contribute to low back pain.

Many runners seek out ways to prevent and treat injury. Many times they turn to books and media for help, or perhaps their peers for what their experience is with their symptoms. Many people don’t think of the physical therapist as the person to turn to when preventing injury, they often think of PT as treating injury. This is a big misconception when physical therapist can answer many of

your questions like what type of shoe should I wear, do I strike on my heel or forefoot and which is best, or should I begin barefoot running or chi running to improve my speed and endurance. These are questions that have a different answer among every runner.

Physical Therapists are the experts in biomechanics and arthro-kinematics of the joints that help identify inefficiencies and poor faults in a persons running gait. New technology also has a way to keep the athletes running after an injury with the newest technology developed by NASA, called the Alter G Anti- Gravity Treadmill. This

allows the person to take up to 80% of their body weight off of their joints to decrease the ground reaction forces that are impacting their joints day after day with heavy training or while completing rehab for an injury.

A person may ask why this is important to prevent injuries? The answer is for many reasons; including you may have muscle imbalances tight hip flexors and weak gluts that affect the stride length during the gait cycle. A person may also present with excessive pronation or pelvis excursion. The runner may be limited in knee flexion at initial contact, for which stresses the anterior knee

Physical therapists treat and prevent running injuries

Page 15: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 15

ONCOLOGY WITH CARE. Full time services for the KeysOur seamless care includes chemotherapy treatment, without the hassle of driving to Miami.

For more information call305-292-5809

3428 North Roosevelt Boulevard

KeysMedicalGroup.com

Lower Keys Cancer Center is in partnership with Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Robert K. Oldham, M.D. | Oncology Hematology359414 HF

causing knee pain. Therapist also assist runners with what type of shoe to wear including a neutral, stability or control stability shoe based on their specific gait mechanics. This is something that takes a trained eye watching you run to identify the best shoe for your foot mechanics. The Anti Gravity Treadmill has 3 camera views to assist the patient with seeing their mechanical faults as well.

A few tips to assist all runners include considering your running surface. Research has found that running on sand increases the ground reaction force. This increases energy cost 1.5 times then other surface, which means you may run slower, but you are still using the same amount of energy as if you were running fast. When comparing a grass versus asphault; grass was proven to have lighter loads on rear and forefoot runners. Most runners don’t prefer training on a treadmill, but with the Alter G premier athletes increase their distance, endurance, and time. Alberto Salazar, an American Running Legend, stated, “I think the Alter G is the best piece of equipment made for running in the last 30 years, the most revolutionary piece of equipment, without a doubt”

As for the new running style, barefoot running, several studies have shown that it has less ground reaction force as

well, but it results in more mechanical work due to the inability to store elastic energy like someone can with shoe running. Barefoot running has decreased contact time, but also causes higher step frequency and leg stiffness at stance time. The fact is barefoot running should be seriously considered on an individual basis before attempting due to the various findings with the current research. It does improve forefoot running and lesson ground reaction force, but not everyone is a forefoot runner. The mechanics at the hip and knee vary from person to person. One additional and obvious reason to turn to physical therapist for professional advice is to prevent potential injury by identifying this faulty mechanics.

All of these trends from chi running to marathon training often result in overuse injuries. This is due to the runner changing their mechanics and creating different forces on their joints. Injuries that can be prevented when seeking out the expertise of a physical therapist to assist you with your running gait. Physical Therapist can identify specific muscle imbalances and gait abnormalities. Also using the Alter G to re-educate muscles and taking that “12 million pounds” down to 3 million pounds of impact on the runner.

Metro Services

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16 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

366504 HF

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Lower Keys Community Health Center(305) 517-65511200 Kennedy Dr. 2nd Floor Key West, FL 33040Jerome E. Covington, MDShui-Lin Klingbeil, ARNP

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Rural Health Network Offers:

METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

The cost of living is on the rise. Gas, groceries and even healthcare

continue to become more expensive.

Healthcare, in particular, has become a burden to many people. The rising costs of medical care and prescriptions is making it difficult for many people to afford adequate healthcare. It’s hard not to be impacted by the cost of healthcare, which is on the rise for a variety of reasons:

• reduced contributions from employers into employee healthcare plans;

• increased incidences of medical malpractice suits,

which drive up doctors’ insurance costs;

• greater involvement by patients in their healthcare choices, with more requests for in-depth testing;

• an aging population requiring more medical care, and

• increased innovations in medical technology.

These factors have made it challenging for many people to keep healthcare costs manageable. Yet, there are ways to keep healthcare expenses affordable.

• Compare plans. Figure out which plan offers the biggest bang for your buck. Although one person in the relationship may be the

proverbial “breadwinner,” that doesn’t mean his or her health insurance plan is the best option available. Compare your options and choose the best plan for you and your family. If neither is sufficient, decide if purchasing your own insurance with a union affiliation or through a different method would be better.

• Live a healthier lifestyle. A sick individual will have to pay more for healthcare. Eat the right foods and maintain a healthy weight. Do not smoke or drink alcohol to excess. Be sure to include exercise in your daily activities.

• Check for discounts. Some health plans offer rebates to policy holders who

exercise regularly. Each plan is different, but check your policy for the details.

• Review the explanation of benefits. Explanation of benefits, or EOBs, are statements provided by your health insurance provider. Make sure they are accurate and void of discrepancies. Report any errors to the insurance company, even if it means singling out a physician who may not be operating truthfully.

• Participate in incentive programs. Some insurance providers will offer incentives, such as a points program, for taking surveys or taking part in health-related activities.

• Use in-network providers.

How to keep healthcare costs manageable

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HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 17

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Page 18: healthfile

18 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

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Dr Kendall Jones and I recently attended the Academy of

Comprehensive Esthetics “Masterminds of Dentistry” seminar. This is an international organization which meets several times a year. It is primarily an internet forum, sharing both clinical and personal interaction on a daily basis. In the “cottage industry” of dental practice, this shared experience has completely reinvented dental continuing education.

ACE is a vibrant group which includes many “gurus” and new dentists alike, with hundreds of others experienced in years

of everyday practice. We share our knowledge and experiences, and I have learned much over the years, whether it may be a new bonding material, a business concern, or a new technique. I was fortunate to learn about “Six Month Smiles” through this forum, and added this service to my practice over two years ago. I have greatly enjoyed providing some life-changing results for many Key Westers. Visit my website, “6MonthSmilesKeyWest.com” for more information, or the site, “SixMonthSmiles.com.” We have been able to make a big difference for folks who never liked their smiles, but had no practical options for improvement.

The Masterminds of Dentistry meeting was held at Hawk’s Cay Resort so I had the opportunity to welcome my friends and colleagues to our beautiful islands. The ACE group offers an annual “Legacy Scholarship” to its meetings, and I submitted Dr Kendall Jones for consideration, as a young member of our profession. He was chosen above other applicants, and awarded free tuition (but refused the transportation and housing portions), and the Board of ACE posted a very complimentary article about Dr Jones and why they chose him. We learned a lot at the meeting in several dental disciplines, as did Wendy Meyer, our chief clinical assistant who attended both the dentist and staff seminars. Dr Jones also helped lead his team to Gold in the Duck Key Dental Olympics!

One piece of new technology which impressed us is the VELscope, so we invested in one for our practice. The VELscope system has been developed to help dental professionals discover a wide variety of oral abnormalities, including oral precancer and cancer, and the growing incidence of oral HPV. By shining VELscope’s safe blue light in a patient’s oral cavity, a dentist is able to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissue. That helps in the quest to find oral disease, even if it’s invisible under ordinary light. Approximately 40,000 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx in 2013. During the same time period over 8,000 will die of oral cancer.

Our dental hygienist, Lourdes Vila, is the most dedicated and thorough hygienist I have ever known, and she embraced the technology as I knew she would. During a routine cleaning visit, Lourdes can do a quick, painless screening of the oral cavity with the Velscope, and also take digital images which are filed in our patients’ electronic record. When one of us comes in for a check-up, we not only perform our usual visual and palpation portion, but now augment it with a review of any suspicious areas found by the fluorescing exam of the Velscope, which may not be visible under normal light. When something is suspected we may have the patient return in two weeks for a re-evaluation or recommend a biopsy or referral to a surgeon for a definitive diagnosis.

To view Dr. Oz discussing and demonstrating the VELscope system, do an internet search, or visit the ParadiseDentalCare channel on You-Tube. You might consider asking your dentist to perform this exam along with your annual Oral Cancer Exam at your next visit.

Dr Bill Goldner and Dr. Kendall Jones practice general and cosmetic dentistry at Paradise Dental Care in Key West.

Dental seminar comes to the Keys, oral cancer screening discussed

Page 19: healthfile

Intensive outpatient therapy – 9 hours/week group therapy

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METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

Your skin is the largest organ of your body. It protects you from

harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections. It also helps your body sense the outside world and regulate your body temperature.

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that billions of dollars are spent each year on skin care products, and billions more are spent on medical costs to treat damaged skin. From powders and lotions to sunscreens and firming creams, caring for your skin is a necessity throughout your lifetime. From infancy to adulthood, proper skin care can help ensure healthy skin throughout your life.

As we grow older, our bodies produce less moisture, drying out the skin, which then begins to lose its elasticity and its ability to protect the rest of the body. For many people, looking after the skin is not only a question of aesthetics, but it is also essential for one’s health and well-being. Conditions that stress, clog or inflame your skin can cause

symptoms such as redness, swelling, burning, and itching. Allergies, irritants, genetic makeup, certain diseases, and immune system disorders can cause dermatitis, hives and other skin conditions.

Columbia Healing Cream has been developed by dermatologists to help people of all ages naturally maintain the proper balance of moisture in their skin. Blending nature’s best emollients with the latest technology, Columbia Healing Cream comforts and softens the skin while helping to alleviate cracking, dryness and itching. The unique combination of botanicals, vitamins and minerals in this product protect and soothe the skin, while stimulating the growth of new cells to bring back younger looking skin.

Manufactured in the United States by a 140-plus year old skin care products company, Columbia Healing Cream is suitable for treating the most sensitive skin, including that of people who suffer from diabetes, eczema or psoriasis. If you want to make your skin smile, simply use Columbia Healing Cream as directed.

Good health starts with the skin

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 19

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20 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

Precision Eye Care2357 Overseas HwyMarathon, FL 33050

305-743-6939 Independent Doctor of Optometry,located inside SEARS Optical3202 N. Roosevelt BlvdKey West, FL 33040

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Optometric PhysicianAccepts most vision

insurance plans and many health insurance plans.

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METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

Personal illnesses are not only bad for employees but also

bad for business. A survey by CCH, a leading provider of human resources and employment law information, has found absenteeism can mean billions of lost revenue for U.S. businesses. The nation’s largest employers estimate that unscheduled absenteeism costs their businesses more than $760,000 per year in direct payroll costs, and even more when lower productivity, lost revenue and the effects of poor morale are considered.

One of the primary reasons employees miss work is poor health stemming from stress and depression. About 14.8 million American adults suffer from depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Depression is the leading cause of disability among young adults in the United States. Canadian studies looking at lifetime incidences of major depression found that roughly 8 percent of adults over 18 years of age met the criteria for a diagnosis of major depression at some time in their lives.

Depression is not just passing feelings of sadness.

It is a persistent feeling of worthlessness or helplessness that is often accompanied by loss of interest in pleasurable activities. Depression may cause sleep disturbances, decreased energy and an inability to concentrate.

Stress, anxiety and depression are often linked. Stress may trigger anxious episodes, which in turn can lead to depression. Anxiety and depression progress together because obsessive worrying keeps a person in an increased state of arousal that results in depression at its most severe, say mental health experts.

It is in everyone’s best interest to make good health a priority. To do so, individuals can follow these guidelines.

• Don’t overlook symptoms that may be indicative of depression or anxiety. Visit a doctor and talk about how you have been feeling. According to a recent large-scale study published by the Rand Corporation, depression results in more days in bed than many other ailments (such as ulcers, diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis). Staying in bed for extended periods of time could be indicative of mental illness.

• Sit down with your employer and explain what is going on. You do not want him or her to simply think you are goofing off on the job. If your employer values your work, then that employer will help you out during a period of illness. You also may be entitled to extended time off through the Family Medical Leave Act.

• Put yourself first. You cannot help others without first helping yourself.

• Consider talking with others in similar situations. There are many support groups that take place both online and in person.

• Recognize that stress can manifest itself in a variety of ways. It may compound blood pressure issues and tax the cardiovascular system.

• Depression and anxiety are more common than you might think. At any given time, one employee in 20 is battling depression.

• Employers can be on the lookout for signs of problems and confidentially approach employees to determine the source of poor performances on the job. Some employers offer counseling as part of employee benefits.

Employees should not take their health lightly, especially when illnesses like depression and anxiety can impair their abilities to do their jobs. Mental and physical health can have a trickle-down effect on job performance. Employees and employers can work together to come up with solutions.

Illness has impact on job performance

Page 21: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 21

CONTRIBUTED

A recent study by Victoria L. Tseng, M.D., found that patients 65

years of age and older had lower odds of hip fracture 1 year after cataract surgery, compared to those patients who had not undergone cataract surgery.

“It stands to reason if one can see better, their quality of life is improved and accidents happen less.” says Dr. Nicole Cremata. “A cataract is not a tumor or a growth, it’s simply clouding of the eye’s natural lens. “Cataracts happen to everyone with time,” says Dr. Nicole Cremata.

Symptoms of cataracts can include: cloudy, blurry or dim vision, fading of colors, fre-quent changes in glasses pre-scriptions, decreased night vision, double vision in a single eye, sensitivity to light, glare, and halos from light. Cataracts affect nearly 20.5 million Americans over age 40. By age 80 half of all Americans have cataracts.* Exposure to UV light, trauma or systemic diseases such as diabetes can increase the onset of changes

to the lens. Early lens chang-es can be monitored closely and managed with changes to your glasses prescription.

Changes that are more severe, that can not be improved with LASIK, glass-es, or contacts, require sur-gery. Modern cataract sur-gery is one of the safest and most effective surgeries pre-formed in the United States. The cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial lens implant (called an intraocular lens) to restore clear vision. Most of the time the surgery is done

in an outpatient clinic pre-formed under local anesthe-sia and does not require an

overnight hospital stay. Many times after surgery

your dependance on glasses will be reduced. Prior to cata-ract surgery your eye doctor will preform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate the over-all health of your eyes and determine if you are a can-didate. Call your eye doctor today if you feel cataracts may be causing changes to your vision.

Dr. Nicole Cremata co-manages postoperative cata-ract surgery for patient con-venience to minimize visits to the surgeon.

Dr. Nicole Cremata is locat-ed at Precision Eye Care in Marathon and inside SEARS Optical in Key West.

Cataract removal decreases hip fractures

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Page 22: healthfile

22 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

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Experts estimate that there are tens of thousands of different

types of mold in the world. A type of fungi, molds are single-celled or multicellular organisms without chlorophyll that reproduce by spores and live by absorbing nutrients from organic matter. Fungi can be classified as molds, mushrooms, rusts, mildews and yeasts. Some of the common types of molds found indoors include cladosporium, alternaria, penicillium, and aspergillus.

Some individuals are more sensitive to molds than others, and may experience

anything from a mild allergic reaction to severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing or other complications with their lungs.

Mold spores travel very easily through the air and can also travel on people and pets. Coming in contact with mold in one location and then traveling to another can cause spores that hitched a ride to dislodge in the new area. People who may have never had mold problems at home before can find that mold quickly takes root if mold spores have been accidentally brought into a home.

In addition to moist areas, molds flourish in other conditions as well.

• Food source: Molds are not picky eaters and can feed on various materials, including wood, fabric, wallpaper, and drywall.

• Air: Although mold needs oxygen to grow, mold fares best in areas that are poorly ventilated.

• Warmth: Mold can grow in temperatures between 40 and 110 F. Therefore, unless it’s below freezing outdoors, there’s a good chance mold spores are thriving.

Mold’s versatility to live in a variety of areas and feed on just about anything make it a formidable foe. But there are natural ways to tackle it.

Mold thrives in moist conditions, so removing the source of moisture is the primary way to control mold growth. Invest in a dehumidifier if your home is plagued by moisture. Dehumidifiers are especially useful in basements and crawlspaces where moisture tends to be a problem.

It’s also good to avoid using bleach to address a mold problem. Although bleach is an excellent disinfectant, it is not always successful in killing

mold spores. The most it may do is whiten areas where the mold is growing. Plus, bleach has its own strong aroma and can be noxious to breathe in at high doses.

Instead of bleach, consider all-natural methods of controlling mold. Straight vinegar reportedly kills 82 percent of mold. Using it in a spray bottle on mold can help to kill it and keep it at bay. Tea tree oil and grapefruit seed extract are also very effective at eliminating mold. Unlike other methods of mold removal, grapefruit seed extract does not have an odor.

Keeping a home ventilated is another way to fight mold. Mold prefers somewhat stagnant conditions, so allowing fresh air into the house can make it harder for mold to thrive. In bathrooms and kitchens, use exhaust fans or open windows to reduce the humidity and moisture left behind.

Mold can be an irritant to people who are sensitive to the spores. Using some smart strategies to reduce its growth can keep mold under control.

Get the facts about mold and your health

Page 23: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 23

SHEILA KONCZEWSKI

Women who take statin medications after menopause

appear to increase their risk of developing diabetes, accord-ing to a recent study.

Researchers analyzed data on nearly 154,000 women who were monitored for an average of seven years in the Women’s Health Initiative, a long-running study of health issues in postmenopausal women. After taking into account family history, obe-sity, lack of physical activity and other risk factors asso-ciated with diabetes, women who took a statin such as Lipitor, Pravachol or Zocor were almost 50 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabe-tes than women who did not take statins.

The research echoes find-ings of other studies, includ-ing one published last year by the Journal of American Medical Association, which link the cholesterol-lower-ing drugs with an increased diabetes risk in men and women.

Researchers can’t explain the connection, but many believe statins may affect the way the body manages insu-lin and glucose responses. Individuals with type 2 diabe-tes don’t make or properly uti-lize insulin, a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar, or glucose, in the blood.

Abraham Wolfenzon, M.D., cardiologist at Mariners Hospital, says the evidence as a whole suggests that the risks are slight and for most people who take statins to lower their risk for heart attack and stroke, the benefits far outweigh the

risks. After all, heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. It is also a leading cause of disability among women.

“The most common cause of heart disease is narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries,” said Dr. Wolfenzon. “Statins are very effective at bringing cholesterol lev-els down to a safer level. Lowering cholesterol levels is one mechanism to reduce the risk of coronary artery dis-ease.”

About one in four Americans over age 45 take a statin, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Touted as “miracle drugs,” statins work by blocking a substance the body needs to make cholesterol. They also may help the body reabsorb cholesterol that has built up in plaques on artery walls, pre-venting further blockage in the blood vessels. Statins reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by 50 percent or more and boost the HDL (“good”) cholesterol, by up to 15 percent.

“C h o l e s t e ro l - l owe r i n g

medicine is most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly,” said Dr. Wolfenzon. “The same healthy habits that reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke also reduce the risk of developing diabetes.”

Dr. Wolfenzon advises his patients who take statins to watch their intake of sugar, starches and refined carbo-

hydrates to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Individuals who take statins should be aware of the early warning signs of diabetes, which include increased thirst and urination, dry mouth, fatigue, headache and blurred vision. Regular blood testing can help detect the develop-ment of diabetes.

Mariners Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida.

Statins may increase diabetes risk in older women

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Page 24: healthfile

24 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

Most families across the globe have been affected by cancer.

Affecting millions of lives each year, cancer does not discriminate.

A host of factors can determine if a person gets cancer. One of the factors that can influence if a person gets cancer is his or her exposure to carcinogens. Though many people have heard of carcinogens, those same people might be less familiar with what carcinogens actually are, and if there’s anything they can do to reduce exposure to and protect themselves from these potentially deadly

substances.What is a carcinogen?Substances and exposures

that can lead to cancer are called carcinogens. Carcinogens do not always cause cancer, and substances considered carcinogens have varying levels of cancer-causing potential. Minimal exposure to certain carcinogens may increase one’s risk of getting cancer significantly, while other carcinogens may cause cancer only after prolonged exposure at high levels.

What happens when a person has cancer?

Cancer is caused by changes in a cell’s DNA. This change can be caused by carcinogens,

though some carcinogens have no direct impact on DNA. For example, a carcinogen may cause cells to divide at a faster rate than is normal, and that accelerated division can increase the chances that DNA changes will occur.

What are some examples of exposures?

Outside exposures, often referred to as environmental factors, can also be considered carcinogens. The following are a few of the more common environmental factors that qualify as carcinogens.

• Lifestyle factors: Poor nutrition, use of tobacco and lack of physical activity are a few of the lifestyle exposures that can lead to cancer.

• Naturally occurring

exposures: Exposure to radon gas, infectious agents and ultraviolet light are some of the naturally occurring exposures that can lead to cancer.

• Medical treatments: Men, women and children who were treated for certain ailments might have been exposed to certain factors that can lead to cancer. These include treatments like chemotherapy, radiation and medications that suppressed the immune system.

What are some examples of substances that are known carcinogens?

As previously mentioned, not all carcinogens will cause cancer. For instance, some that are known human

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The 411 on carcinogens

Page 25: healthfile

HEALTH FILE • JANUARY 2013 25

carcinogens, including alcoholic beverages, will not necessarily cause cancer. But the following are a few of the more recognizable substances considered known human carcinogens.

• Asbestos• Coal, indoor emissions

from household combustion• Formaldehyde• Mineral oils, untreated or

mildly treated• Neutron radiation• Nickel compounds• Shale oils• Tobacco smoke and

smokeless tobaccoAre there different

classifications of carcinogens?

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has spent the last 30 years evaluating the cancer-causing potential of more than 900 likely substances and exposures. That research has enabled the IARC to devise a system for classifying carcinogens as follows:

• Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans

• Group 2A: Probably

carcinogenic to humans• Group 2B: Possibly

carcinogenic to humans• Group 3: Unclassifiable as

to carcinogenicity in humans• Group 4: Probably not

carcinogenic to humansBecause testing carcinogens

is so difficult (it is unethical to test on humans), many of the carcinogens studied by the IARC are classified as being a probable, possible or unknown risk. Slightly more than 100 of the candidates studied by the IARC are classified as Group 1 carcinogens.

It’s important to note that, in addition to the IARC rating system, other agencies and groups, including the National Toxicology Program and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, have developed their own rating systems to determine the cancer-causing potential of certain substances and exposures.

For more information on carcinogens, including a list of known human carcinogens, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.

Cancer is caused by changes in a cell’s DNA. This change can be caused by carcinogens, though some carcinogens have no direct impact on DNA.

Although cervical cancer may garner the headlines and be the primary reason thousands of women visit their doctors each year for routine PAP tests, this cancer is not the most common cancer of the reproductive organs. Cancer of the uterus is more common than cervical cancer and ovarian cancer. The National Cancer Institute says that more than 47,000 women will be diagnosed with uterine cancer in the United States in 2012 alone. Most women diagnosed with uterine cancer will be over the age of 55. The majority of the cases of uterine cancer occur in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, according to The Mayo Clinic. Uterine cancer and endometrial cancer are terms that are often used interchangeably. This cancer may start with polyps or fibroids that grow inside the uterus. Because uterine cancer generally causes abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain and other symptoms, it can be diagnosed early when women visit their physician. If a woman is beyond childbearing age, surgically removing the uterus often eliminates all of the cancer and is an effective means of treatment.

Did you know?

Page 26: healthfile

26 JANUARY 2013 • HEALTH FILE

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METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

Prunes, also known as dried plums, are among the healthiest

foods a person can eat. Not only do they have benefits for the gastrointestinal system, they are high in antioxidants, may help prevent premature aging and can promote cardiovascular health.

The plum is related to the peach, cherry, nectarine, apricot, and almond. The Japanese plum is the most commonly eaten fresh plum, while the European plum is the one traditionally dried to turn into prunes. Plums have been eaten for centuries, and in Chinese mythology the

plum tree is associated with great age and wisdom. Plums are one of the most widely cultivated fruits.

Prunes are usually made by dehydrating the fruit quickly with the use of natural gas heat in dehydrating tunnels. Essentially, heating elements and fans are used to force hot air through plum-filled tunnels. At this point prunes can be stored or processed further for packaging. Some prunes are processed with potassium sorbate, which is a preservative that improves the shelf life of packaged prunes. Prunes also are generally washed and steamed to return some of the moisture to the fruit. Other prunes are hot-

packed so they are processed without any preservatives.

What makes prunes (and plums) nutritional powerhouses is that they are very high in antioxidants, substances that help fight free radicals in the body that contribute to illness. According to researchers from Tufts University in Boston, prunes rank No. 1 in terms of antioxidant capacity. It was found that prunes had more than twice the antioxidant capacity of other superfoods, like blueberries and raisins. Dried plums also rank above fresh plums in having a greater capacity of antioxidant power. Prunes contain high levels of hydrocinnamic acids (phenol compounds), which give them their antioxidant boost.

Prunes are very high in dietary fiber, containing between 6 to 7 grams. As many know, dietary fiber is the part of plant foods that the stomach and intestinal enzymes cannot absorb into the bloodstream. Fiber will remain in the colon and absorb water, which helps soften the stool before it is passed. Prunes also contain sorbitol, which is a mild colon stimulant. This will help speed up the passage of stool and reduce the risk of constipation and hemorrhoids, and may reduce risk of colorectal cancer.

Individuals may not be aware that prunes also contain high amounts of polyphenols, which are known to restore bone mass and structure, according to Heal With Food. Therefore, dried plums are part of osteoporosis prevention treatment for

postmenopausal women. Various studies have indicated prunes may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density, bone formation activity and the production of boron, which is thought to play a role in the prevention of osteoporosis.

Prunes also may help prevent certain types of cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, foods high in fiber and vitamin A may offer some protection against cancers of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts as well as cancers induced by chemicals. The phytonutrients in plums also can inhibit in-vitro breast cancer growth without adversely affecting normal cell growth.

It is well known that eating prunes and drinking prune juice can help keep a person “regular,” but the nutritional benefits of dried plums extends beyond their value treating gastrointestinal conditions.

Prunes as a superfood are revamping fruit image

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METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

In addition to helping the environment, an eco-friendly lifestyle can have

a positive impact on personal health. • Start with your commute. Many professionals commute to work five days per week, and that commute presents a great opportunity to make some eco-friendly changes to your daily routine. Instead of driving to work each day, investigate the possibility of taking public transportation. Taking public transportation to work also saves you money, as the cost of a monthly bus or rail pass is likely much less than the cost of filling up your gas tank.

If public transportation is not an option, then suggest a car pool with coworkers who live in your area. Each person can take turns driving from week to week, which will save you money on fuel and reduce the amount of wear and tear on your vehicle.• Forget you have a printer. Nowadays, fewer and fewer people rely on printed documents to get through the workday. Advances

with regard to computer technology has made it just as easy to read documents on a computer screen as it is to do so on a sheet of paper. • Instead of leaving notes for coworkers, send them e-mails instead. This saves paper, which in turn will save your company money, and it also reduces your reliance on ink that can potentially harm the environment.

If making presentations, do so using slides rather than printing materials and handing them out in a packet. E-mail coworkers the presentation in advance.

If you and your coworkers simply must print documents, try to use two-sided printing and copying to reduce your paper usage. And urge your office manager to order supplies made from recycled materials and discard of any potentially harmful products, including ink cartridges, in an eco-friendly way.• Don’t give up on your computer too quickly. Many professionals use their home computer for work-related reasons from time to time. If you find your computer struggles when you work

from home, investigate ways to improve the computer’s performance instead of seeking a replacement. Adding RAM might be enough to make your computer run more smoothly when you have multiple programs running, and that addition can be made at a fraction of the cost of buying a new computer. If an upgrade won’t do the trick and you decide to replace your computer, recycle it rather than simply throwing it out with the trash.• Set your computer to power-saving mode at the end of the day. Researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that the energy savings when a computer is in “sleep” mode

as opposed to being turned off completely are negligible. But professionals should set their computer so it goes into a power-saving mode after a certain period of being idle. In addition, get rid of screensavers, which require energy and no longer have any positive impact on the life expectancy of your computer monitor.

Going green is something that can be done in both your personal and professional life.

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RUTH SCHRADER-GRACE

“Through synergy of mind and body, with a true connection, creates your ability to ultimately achieve any goal.”

Let’s begin with a little history about hypnosis. It dates back thousands

of years as a powerful tool to help and heal? Early records indicate the Egyptian sleep temples and the Temple of Aesculapius in Greece were sites where hypnosis was used as an important part of healing treatments.__A reappearance of the use of hypnosis began in the 1700’s with the work of an Austrian physician named Franz Anton Mesmer and in the 1800’s Dr. James Braid brought hypnosis to the medical field with his work in Hypnoanesthesia.__Hypnosis was used as an effective and rapid treatment for “shell shock,” now referred to as post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), following World War I, World War II and the Korean War, including

recent use by therapists for the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The American Medical Association approved hypnosis as an effective treatment in 1958 and recommended that training in hypnosis be included in medical school curriculum. Hypnosis and guided imagery continue to be integrated into our modern medical and health care systems. Additionally, the National Institute of Health recognizes hypnosis as a complementary and alternative medicine treatment modality and continues to fund research to validate the importance of hypnosis. Through the years research has shown dramatic results in a variety of areas, particularly as an adjunct to conventional cancer treatments and pain management.

Hypnosis remains one of the most powerful healing modalities by using the power of the subconscious mind in motivating the mind-body connection for physical and mental health.

Hypnosis is sometimes misconceived because of its portrayal in film, television and/or other media. To better understand what hypnosis is, it is important to understand what it is NOT: It is not sleep. It is not a state of unconsciousness or being vulnerable. It is not being gullible or weak-minded, and when under hypnosis no one outside of yourself can make you do anything you absolutely would not want to do. You are not being controlled by someone else and you do not lose your self control.

Then what is hypnosis? It IS a natural state of mind, one that you cycle in and out of several times a day. It is a deep physical and mental state of relaxation, a connection with the subconscious mind, a state of suggestibility. It is a state of heightened awareness and a communicative technique that bypasses the “critical factor”, the analytical part of the brain, the conscious mind.

You have already been hypnotized thousands of times in your life. When you daydream, space out at a boring meeting, find yourself absorbed in front of the TV, or lose yourself in a good book, you are in a form of hypnotic state. Everything else in your environment is blocked out while you concentrate on what you are doing.

Sometimes even our drives to and from somewhere can be hypnotic. A normal everyday commute can become a trance state due to the nature of the drive. When you know a route so well that it becomes automatic you can easily slip into a hypnotic trance state. You will know if this has ever

happened to you if you can recall a time when you drove home and couldn’t recall the details of your journey!

To better understand how the mind functions let’s take a look at the two sides of our brain. The Right Brain, the subconscious mind, reacts much like a small child. It is very literal, obedient, and accepts suggestions which are either stated directly or in the form of stories or metaphors. This is where we are creative, feel free, passionate, love, emotions, long term memory, habits, addictions and relationship patterns. The Right Brain makes up approximately 90% of our mind. It is also a deeper level of the mind, much like the hard drive of a computer. It holds the imprints and beliefs that drive our behavior and create our self image. Through hypnosis we learn how to use our natural ability to connect with our subconscious.

The Left Brain, the conscious mind, the rational mind, is where we are logical, analytical, strategic and concrete in our thinking. The Left Brain handles short term memory, recognizes distinctions and it is where our language, math and science resides. Although our left brain can certainly make decisions, balance our checkbook, and set goals, it is where we continue to revisit old issues, painful emotions and unhealthy response patterns despite all of our best efforts to grow and change.

At a deeper level, our mind may grip scenes and memories and place them stationary in time. It is as if a part of us still lives in our childhood home, or lingers in an old relationship, while the greater

Hypnosis – What’s it all about?

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part of our consciousness exists in the here and now. It’s these scenes or unfinished business that calls to us for healing because it presents us with negative physical symptoms, lower self-esteem, anxieties, addictions, phobias and fears.

Hypnosis is a simple and effective way to change bad habits into good ones and negative feelings into positive ones. All of our emotions, beliefs, and habits reside in the subconscious mind and hypnosis provides direct access to the subconscious mind to replace any negatives with powerful, positives.

Most of us have habits or feelings that we’ve tried to change and yet nothing we do seems to make a difference. We know how we want to act and feel, but our decision-making and will power doesn’t seem to be enough to have any lasting effect. Although our conscious mind has made a decision to change, the beliefs and ideas held in our subconscious mind won’t allow the change to take place. Hypnosis allows the subconscious mind to move into agreement with conscious desires and goals so we can live a life of freedom and success! Napolean Hill said, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe it can achieve.” The connection between the mind and body has been well-documented and extensively studied. Positive mental imagery can promote positive thinking and motivation, reduce stress, improve mood, help us relax and even strengthen our immune system. It can enhance your ability to heal and sleep, increase feelings of self-confidence and self-

control, help us develop a sense of empowerment and even improve memory. Through hypnosis you can also learn to:

• Enhance your ability to concentrate, block out distractions or review past events

• Reinforce positive self-beliefs and improve self- esteem

• Lose weight and increase energy

• Improve public speaking• Enhance sports

performance • Change unwanted

habits, obsessions and compulsions

• Learn to relax, lower blood pressure and control anxiety

Coaches, athletes, executives, organizational team members and individuals alike benefit from using hypnosis. Using imagery in a powerful and effective way helps to set goals, visualize how best to accomplish them, and a means by which to systematically obtain them.__As you develop a connection with your subconscious mind, you open yourself up to your own unique and infinite potential to further yourself and to enhance your path of self-discovery.__In the words of author, teacher and visionary, Jean Houston, “We all have the extraordinary, coded inside us, waiting to be released.”

One of the most significant changes Ruth Schrader-Grace, CH notes about her clients is, “the one fabulous thing they all mention to me, is their profound new awareness about themselves or the goal they are working towards, that they never had

before.” Clients have said, “After struggling to continue losing weight, despite the physical exercise routine I do every week, I realized I needed something more. Every time I reached a certain number in my weight, it triggered an awful feeling inside me, creating negative thinking toward my desire to lose weight. I discovered hypnosis and have been thrilled with the results. Not only have I gone past the number in my weight that had stopped me all these years but I also delightfully discovered other ways to utilize hypnosis for self improvement. My hypnosis sessions have afforded me a new outlook on myself both physically and mentally by learning to improve my self-

esteem, self-confidence and my general well being.” “I want to thank you so much for sharing your wonderful gift with me…. still can’t fully believe it, there have been no cravings for any of the foods that I felt I was addicted to and find myself waking up every morning excited to go for my bike ride. I feel that you have given me such a gift, the insight to my addiction and the motivation to my subconscious to attain any goals that I set. I’m finally on the right path.” “Ruth had a calming and relaxed way of helping me get to a place in my mind where I could feel the changes I was looking for. She helped me solidify those feelings so that I can use them as I consciously work towards my goal!”

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Seafood has long been seen as a healthy addition to a person’s

diet. Easily digestible and rich in high-quality protein that provides a mix of essential amino acids, seafood can play an integral role in a healthy diet.

As healthy as seafood can be, the Natural Resources Defense Council notes that eating fish is not always healthy for individuals or the environment. Contaminated fish can be unhealthy, and seafood that has been overfished can result in long-term issues for oceans and marine life. Because there are extenuating circumstances with regard to consuming seafood, the NRDC offers the following information to seafood-loving consumers so they can be certain they’re making the healthiest and most eco-friendly choices when buying seafood.• Choose smaller fish. Smaller marine animals, including squid, oysters, mackerel, mussels and even sardines, are more plentiful. In

addition, smaller fish contain less mercury, which is more beneficial to your health.• It’s important to know where fish are coming from. The health of a species may depend on where the species is from. Fish caught in sustainable ways are typically healthy for both consumers and the environment. The NRDC recommends consumers use the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch guide (www.montereybayaquarium.org) to learn about the various regions and which provide the most sustainable choices.• It’s important to know how your fish was caught. In addition to where a fish is from, how it was caught should also be an important consideration for consumers. Hook-and-line fishing and fish caught with pots and traps are considered the most eco-friendly methods of fishing. Longline fishing, which requires the use of long fishing lines with thousands of hooks that can kill both sea turtles and birds, can be very harmful to marine life. In addition, the NRDC considers bottom trawlers, which are

nets that can cut the ocean floor and kill various types of marine life, including sea urchins, coral dolphins and whales, especially harmful to the environment and marine life.• Choose wild fish. The NRDC notes the concerns about the environmental impact of fish farming, advising consumers to purchase wild-caught fish instead. • Eat local. Local varieties

of fish that haven’t been depleted in local waters are more eco-friendly than fish from another part of the country or world. That’s because fresh fish must be transported through the air, which requires substantial amounts of energy.

More information about choosing seafood that is healthy for consumers as well as the environment is available at www.nrdc.org.

How to make healthy seafood choices

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METRO CREATIVE SERVICES

For decades, people have turned to diet soft drinks as a healthier

alternative to regular soft drinks. However, consuming diet soda on a regular basis may have some serious health ramifications, including weight gain.

It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that diet sodas may be causing people to gain weight, particularly because these sodas are commonly consumed by people who are trying to lose weight. However, artificial sweeteners found in some diet sodas may increase a person’s risk of obesity. It’s not entirely what you are eating that can cause weight gain but what the body thinks it is eating (or drinking) that plays a role.

There are two factors at play with regard to the artificial sweetener conundrum. First, The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio has researched the potential link between obesity and artificial sweeteners. Researchers have found that something in the chemical structure of these sweeteners alters the way the brain processes the neurotransmitter serotonin. In addition to helping with sleep, mood and other functions in the body, serotonin helps tell the body when it is full. When natural foods and sugars are consumed, serotonin signals to the brain to turn off your body’s appetite. However, artificial sweeteners may prolong the release of serotonin, and your appetite remains in full force long after

it should have abated.Another component

of artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame, is that these chemicals can trick the body into thinking it has, in fact, consumed sugar. That triggers the pancreas to produce the insulin needed to regulate blood-glucose levels. It also causes the body to store the glucose as fat. This can lead to low blood sugar, which may cause you to eat a sugary treat in response. Having diet soda or eating a sugarless item once in a while won’t create any long-term effects. But repeatedly relying on artificial sweeteners could affect appetite and change blood sugar levels for good.

These aren’t the only consequences to diet soda and other beverages. Drinking diet soda regularly may affect cardiovascular health. According to the American Heart Association, research presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference found people who drink diet soda every day have a 61 percent higher risk of vascular events than those who reported no soda consumption.

Regular soda isn’t a better alternative. It can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues as well as an increased risk for diabetes. A 2011 review published in the journal Circulation stated that a positive association has been shown between sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption and weight gain in both children and adults.

Nutritionists and doctors have advised that instead of

adding artificial sweeteners to water and other beverages, flavor them with lemon or lime juice. Instead of drinking diet soda, opt for unsweetened tea or plain water.

Although diet soda may seem a likely option to help curb calories, such beverages may actually be having an adverse effect on a person’s weight.

Can diet soda cause weight gain?

Diet soda may seem a healthier option than sugary drinks, but it may cause weight gain and contribute to obesity.

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