BEES WELLNESS LOUNGE

Daily Glass Of Beet Juice Can Beat High Blood Pressure, Study Shows

2012-01-26T05:32:00.000-08:00

I have never been a fan of beets but this article grabbed my attention as something to incorporate into my own healthier living routine.
Daily Glass Of Beet Juice Can Beat High Blood Pressure, Study Shows

Just Pick a Date-To Induce or Not Induce

2012-01-20T11:31:00.000-08:00

The birthing process usually occurs naturally but there is a process where labor can be forced to begin artificially through medical intervention. Recently there has been a rise in what is called elective induction for convenience or to accommodate schedules. Before making this choice you might want to read Dr. Linda Burke-Galloway article "5 Questions Every Pregnant Woman Should Ask Before Being Induced" first.

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Cervical Cancer Awarness...time to take the pledge

2012-01-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

This year, more than 12,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. And more than 4,210 will die. Now, Take the Pearl Pledge and help protect yourself and other women from this preventable disease!

When It Come to Care for Your Loved One A Bargain Is Not The Best Deal

2012-01-14T15:27:00.000-08:00

At some point in life, many will be faced with the task of finding in home help to provide care for their loved ones. Though not limited to the aged population, with the advance of medical technology, people are living much longer and middle aged adults are faced with the responsibility of ensuring the adequate care and safety of their aging parents. This present challenges even for those whose parents were wise enough to plan ahead for this need by obtaining a long term care policy in the younger years.
This scenario came knocking at my door recently and my first thought was I would just look to private hire a trained individual to come into our home to provide care. Thankfully before making what could have turned out to be a very unwise decision, I did some research and came across an article,"Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers: Why Work Through An Agency? which helped to enlighten me on the subject. Of course the main reason families tend to private hire is because of the financial aspect of it; the hourly rates are often lower but along with that they assume a certain liabilities and tax responsibilities. There is also the added risk of abuse and exportation, especially if the person who is being cared for lives in another location distant from their family members.
Although it will take time and effort to contact various home care agencies to find the right help needed for your loved one, in the long run this is the better choice, really the only choice to protect both yourself and your loved one. There are several internet services to assist caregivers navigate throughout this process. Elder Care locator is a good resource that can connect you to a variety of services in your geographical area. My choice turned out to be Chevy Chase Home Care, a minority, woman owned business serving the metropolitan Washington DC area. From my first contact with them their director, Dr. Nataliya Lakiza, showed great care and concern for what my family’s needs were. Their company also works to gain funding for the less fortunate who are not able to pay for in-home care by partnering financial sponsors with families who simply cannot afford the care. They will be hosting several fundraising events for this purpose and Bees Wellness Lounge will definitely share in this effort.

Environmental Birth Defects

2012-01-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

The birth of a healthy baby requires the mother to take action long before conception. One thing that can have a huge impact on the outcome is her environment. January is Birth Defect Prevention Month. Smoking during pregnancy has been linked to premature births and miscarriages but it also increases the risk for delivering a baby with a birth defect. Read some of the data Smoking During Pregnancy Increases Risk of Birth Defects in Offspring.

As my associate Dr. Linda Burke Galloway says "a healthy pregnancy doesn't just happen...it takes a smart mother to know what to do"...check out her Smart Mother's Guide to a Better Pregnancy.

GoPillow - Breastfeeding Pillow - Nursing Pillow - Baby Blanket- Toddler...

2012-01-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

In an effort to provide a product that would help to change the feelings of uneasiness about breastfeeding and provide comfort for both mother and baby, a young mother, Tangela Walker-Craft came up with the idea of the Go Pillow. I think after you have viewed the video you will not only think this is both a useful and practical product for breastfeeding.

Visit Simply Necessary to make purchase of this great product. Be sure to mention you learned about the pillow at Bees Wellness Lounge.

Mommie...what are those for????

2012-01-08T05:13:00.000-08:00

As we move into another week of the month of January, I pondered on what to blog about for Birth Defect Prevention Month and it came to me…breast…more specifically breast feeding. In the United States breast have seemed to have more recognition sexually than for their physiological purpose, which is for nourishment. This attitude has led to the discomfort of many around the issue of breastfeeding, which has many medical and psychological benefits for both mother and baby. I stumbled on an article “Got Milk? Not in Public!” by Jacqueline Wolf, which comments that as far back as the 1960s a woman whose father was an obstetrician responded to her breastfeeding her baby saying “you will ruin your breasts you know”. Now years later, right here in DC, where laws are made everyday, the breastfeeding debate made the news when a mother breastfeeding her baby in a government building (Department of Motor Vehicles) was told she could not do so because it was considered “indecent exposure”.
The uneasiness around breastfeeding will continue unless there is a collective effort to promote its acceptance by the public at large and programs to support this effort. You can read more about the statistics and what is being done to foster change in “Hospital Support for Breastfeeding”.

Check out Breastfeeding.com for some good resource information.

For helpful information to help you with having a healthy pregnancy/baby...check out my colleague Dr. Linda Burke-Galloway's site The Smart Mother's Guide to a Better Pregnancy.

Let’s get some dialogue started on this one…leave a comment on your thoughts.

When Health Begins

2012-01-06T21:02:00.000-08:00

January marks Birth Defect Prevention Month and there are many things to consider to ensure a healthy baby. Learn more about When Health Begins and what you can do.

Pose without injury

2012-01-06T19:57:00.000-08:00

As I entered into the year of 2012, I found myself desiring to return to the practice of yoga. Yoga is a great choice to add to your wellness plan but there are several important factors to consider to help prevent the injuries that could occur.
Find out more in the article Preventing Yoga Injuries.

Having a Positive Attitude Can Add Years to Your Life - Beliefnet.com

2012-01-05T04:48:00.000-08:00

Having a Positive Attitude Can Add Years to Your Life - Beliefnet.com

It's Not About A Diet...It's About A Healthy Lifestyle

2012-01-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

10 DIET DERAILERS TO AVOID (for YOUR HEALTH & BODY CONFIDENCE

The Difference Between Good & Great

2012-01-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

212: The Extra Degree | 212: The Extra Degree

Tips for Lasting Happiness

2012-01-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

Tips for Lasting Happiness - Beliefnet.com

Our Environment’s Impact on Well-Being

2011-12-26T13:04:00.000-08:00

Our Environjavascript:void(0)ment’s Impact on Well-Being

Do you suffer from the need-to-please disease?

2011-12-11T06:52:00.000-08:00

Something to consider for the New Years plan for healthier living
Do you suffer from the need-to-please disease?

5 Tips for Eating Healthy Through the Holidays

2011-11-23T16:37:00.000-08:00

5 Tips for Eating Healthy Through the Holidays

For Thanksgiving: 12 Ways to Be Thankful

2011-11-23T04:42:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving: 12 Ways to Be Thankful

Get kids interested in health during the National PTA's Healthy Lifestyles Month - KansasCity.com

2011-11-06T17:22:00.000-08:00

Get kids interested in health during the National PTA's Healthy Lifestyles Month - KansasCity.com

Mind-Body Walking: Medicine for Body and Spirit - Beliefnet.com

2011-11-03T05:17:00.000-07:00

Mind-Body Walking: Medicine for Body and Spirit - Beliefnet.com

Eating for Life

2011-10-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

Foods Jesus Likely Consumed

Communication Techniques for Talking to Elderly Parents - Beliefnet.com

2011-10-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

Communication Techniques for Talking to Elderly Parents - Beliefnet.com

Family Connection to VTE

2011-09-21T04:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.caregiver.com/articles/general/vte_and_stroke.htm

Best and Worst Milk Alternatives | Eat This, Not That

2011-09-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

Until a month ago I thought I was doing myself justice with my choice of milk...I finally discovered Almond Milk,not only is it much lower in calories...I love the taste...check out the suggestions against what you are drinking.
(Note...in the article they make suggestion of an organic brand...the one pictured Almond Breeze just happens to be my favorite)

Best and Worst Milk Alternatives | Eat This, Not That

Healthy Diabetic Eating Tips From CDE

2011-08-30T07:22:00.001-07:00

The nation is obsessed with nutrition these days. From Dr. Oz to Michelle Obama, proponents of healthy eating are spreading their message load and clear: Americans need to change their eating habits! The interpretation of how to implement this much-needed change varies, but the premise remains the same (continued)

Don't Fear Diabetes

2011-08-21T16:01:00.000-07:00

Breakfast can be a challenging meal for those with diabetes...this article will give you a low carb breakfast alternative.
Don't Fear Diabetes

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts

2011-08-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

Part of living a healthier life involves not only making wise lifestyle choices but also being well informed. It is a good idea from time to time to do a food recall check yourself and not just assume there will be a widespread announcement. You can visit the FDA website for up to date information.
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts

What is The Best Time to Drink Water

2011-08-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

What is The Best Time to Drink Water

Why War Ends With You: Seven Practices for Peace From Deepak Chopra - Beliefnet.com

2011-08-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

Why War Ends With You: Seven Practices for Peace From Deepak Chopra - Beliefnet.com

Mental Detox

2011-08-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

Mental Detox - Beliefnet.com

Free Wellness Exam Covered By Medicare In New Health Care Law ?

2011-08-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Free Wellness Exam Covered By Medicare In New Health Care Law - AARP Bulletin

Eating Right With Diabetes — Diabetes Connection — Glucerna

2011-08-03T18:54:00.000-07:00

Eating Right With Diabetes — Diabetes Connection — Glucerna

Spaghetti... Squash? Veggies & Fruits Diabetes Superfoods Food & Fitness

2011-08-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Spaghetti... Squash? Veggies & Fruits Diabetes Superfoods Food & Fitness

Bell Peppers' Health Benefits - Nutrition & Health | iOneHealth.com

2011-08-01T17:55:00.000-07:00

Bell Peppers' Health Benefits - Nutrition & Health | iOneHealth.com

Combating yeast infections

2011-08-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

Combating yeast infections

Do Restorative Yoga: Yoga for Chronic Pain

2011-07-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Do Restorative Yoga: Yoga for Chronic Pain: "Kelly McGonigal wrote an article for Do Restorative Yoga back in December 2009. Here's another article by her from Yoga + Joyful Living mag..."

10 Tips for Healthy Aging

2011-07-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

I HAVE A GREAT MODEL TO FOLLOW
10 Tips for Healthy Aging - Beliefnet.com

Laughter is An Instant Vacation - Video - Beliefnet.com

2011-07-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

Laughter is An Instant Vacation - Video - Beliefnet.com

What is Group B Strep and who can it harm

2011-07-19T15:35:00.000-07:00

Group B Strep

What is Juvenile Arthritis?

2011-07-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

July marks the month for awareness of Juvenile Arthritis - learn some facts
What is Juvenile Arthritis?

A Simple Way to Clean Produce

2011-07-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

A Simple Way to Clean Produce – and Possibly Fight ADHD - Living Green - Everyday Health Blogs

Less Stress-Hit the Water

2011-07-14T19:18:00.001-07:00

Water Aerobics Benefits

Stroke risk in pregnant women 2.4 times higher: Loyola University Health System study

2011-07-13T07:24:00.000-07:00

Stroke risk in pregnant women 2.4 times higher: Loyola University Health System study

Keep a Watch on Seniors in Your Neighborhood During the Heat

2011-07-12T17:18:00.000-07:00

Visit Create The Good site to see some simple but lifesaving tips.
How-to Guide | Overview | Create The Good

4 Surgeries to Avoid - AARP The Magazine

2011-07-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

4 Surgeries to Avoid - AARP The Magazine

My Plate Replaces Food Pyramid to Help Consumers Eat Better

2011-07-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

My Plate Replaces Food Pyramid to Help Consumers Eat Better

Commonly Misdiagnosed Illnesses, Medical Symptoms - AARP The Magazine

2011-06-25T05:35:00.000-07:00

Commonly Misdiagnosed Illnesses, Medical Symptoms - AARP The Magazine

WHAT CAREGIVERS ARE READING

2011-06-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

One of the things that is helpful for those who are caretakers for a loved one is being able to feel that they are not alone. Caregiver.com has a host of great resources for caretakers...check out the top ten articles caregivers were reading in April

The Benefits of Olive Oil | Active.com

2011-05-30T17:52:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of Olive Oil | Active.com

HELP END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

2011-05-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

TAKE THE PLEDGE TO END THE SILENCE AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Dr. Phil.com

STDs, Sexually Transmitted Disease, Retirees, Senior Citizens - AARP

2011-05-23T05:14:00.000-07:00

STD'S IN THE SENIOR POPULATION - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AND DO
STDs, Sexually Transmitted Disease, Retirees, Senior Citizens - AARP

Health Quiz: How Strong is Your Mind-Body Connection?- Beliefnet.com

2011-05-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

Health Quiz: How Strong is Your Mind-Body Connection?- Beliefnet.com

Staying Happy in Bad Times

2011-04-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

Staying Happy in Bad Times

Be Careful When Heating H20 in the Microwave

2011-04-02T15:25:00.000-07:00

I received like many of you an email about a man getting severely burned from a water microwaving incident. Personally I like using a traditional kettle of electric kettle to heat water because microwaving has other hazards associated with it and the heat doesn't seem to last long but if you still choose to use the microwave you might want to read these precautions.
Home, Business, and Entertainment Products Risk of Burns from Eruptions of Hot Water Overheated in Microwave Ovens

Take the Halt the Salt Pledge

2011-03-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

It's time to get serious and save lives...HALT THE SALT
Take the Halt the Salt Pledge

How Veterans' Hospitals Became the Best in Health Care

2011-03-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

Lessons that can be learned from the VA Model
How Veterans' Hospitals Became the Best in Health Care

The End of Overeating

2011-03-23T04:54:00.000-07:00

There is really more to that piece of cake...this book can give an explanation as to why diets don't work, why we have craving for certain foods and better what we can do about it.

The End of Overeating Audiobook on CD by David A. Kessler MD, Blair Hardman - Simon & Schuster

The New Allergy Zones

2011-03-23T04:29:00.000-07:00

The New Allergy Zones

Check out Pharmacy Errors – Avoid Prescription Dispensing Mistakes

2011-03-15T08:17:00.001-07:00

Knowing about these errors can save lives...within the past several months I have personally corrected three wrong medication dosage errors and one wrong medication error...you cannot rely on someone else to be the watching eye..you have to take the time and effort and demand a consult with any new medication dispensing at your pharmacy and this involves over the counter (OCT) medications as well...be informed and take control!!!

Check out Pharmacy Errors – Avoid Prescription Dispensing Mistakes

LEARN ABOUT KIDNEYS

2011-03-12T15:07:00.000-08:00

MARCH IS KIDNEY MONTH TAKE TIME TO FIND OUT AS MUCH ABOUT THEM AS POSSIBLE

Home Dialysis Central

March is DVT Awareness Month

2011-03-10T09:09:00.000-08:00

March is DVT Awareness Month: SIGVARIS Says “Sock It To DVT”

2011-03-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

March is DVT Awareness Month: SIGVARIS Says “Sock It To DVT”

Prevent Blindness America Applauds White House for Declaring "Save Your Vision" Week

2011-03-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Prevent Blindness America Applauds White House for Declaring "Save Your Vision" Week

Who's At Risk For Kidney Disease

2011-03-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

March 10th is World Kidney Day

2011-03-07T16:54:00.000-08:00

March 10th is World Kidney Day

LIVE DONATION...A SERIOUS DECISION

2011-02-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

Becoming an organ donor is a gift of love that can compare to none...and when an individual decides to give a kidney or portion of their liver to either a family member or friend...there are many things to consider. As with any type of surgery there are risk involved, the donor can have complication that lead to death. There are also many psychological factors to consider. This is a decision that MUST be made out of having sufficient information and resources and not one made emotionally. Live organ donation is lifesaving but there are risk involved.
Read more "Live Organ Donation: Lifesaving but Risky"

MYTH OF FACT REGARDING ORGAN DONATION

2011-02-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Monday marks the day that around the nation we celebrate the holiday of love called Valentines Day...but also it is National Organ Donor Day...a good day to consider if you will sign up to be one who can save lives...there are many myths concerning becoming a donor...below are some facts. There is also something called live donation...where you donate a kidney or portion of your liver to a friend or stranger. This is a serious decision and before considering...you should be sure you have facts...the following post will share a story on the subject.

FACT OR MYTH

Healthy Choices Today Can Help Lead to Healthy Eyesight In the Future

2011-02-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

Healthy Choices Today Can Help Lead to Healthy Eyesight In the Future

The Smart Mother's Guide to a Better Pregnancy

2011-02-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

SMART MOTHERS GUIDE
A must for anyone considering motherhood or currently pregnant...it is what you don't know that can harm your unborn baby and/or you!!!!

LOVE IS...

2011-02-09T10:53:00.001-08:00

February is TEEN DATING VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AWARENESS MONTH...TAKE A STAND...FOR LOVE IS RESPECT

HIV and Your Grandparents

2011-02-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

HIV and Your Grandparents

HIV/AIDS knows no boundaries and the senior population is one that if we don't be vigilant will go once again forgotten. Be sure to advocate for education in senior settings on prevention.

Love Your Heart Expo - Adventist HealthCare

2011-02-06T04:07:00.000-08:00

Love Your Heart Expo - Adventist HealthCare

Quiz: Do You Have Enough 'Me Time'?- Beliefnet.com

2011-02-04T09:06:00.000-08:00

Quiz: Do You Have Enough 'Me Time'?- Beliefnet.com

Do you find you take more time out for others than yourself? Take this quiz to see if you need to take yourself off the back burner.

The DASH Diet Eating Plan

2011-02-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

The DASH Diet Eating Plan

My Life Check

2011-02-02T06:23:00.000-08:00

My Life Check

Snow and Ice Safety – Keeping Children Safe: How to Avoid Accidents in Snowy and Icy Conditions

2011-01-31T18:44:00.000-08:00

Snow and Ice Safety – Keeping Children Safe: How to Avoid Accidents in Snowy and Icy Conditions

Health: self.com

2011-01-31T14:08:00.000-08:00

Health: self.com

Creative Inspiration with Your Morning Joe

2011-01-31T13:46:00.000-08:00

Creative Inspiration with Your Morning Joe

Join the Registry - Be The Match Bone Marrow Registry

2011-01-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

Join the Registry - Be The Match Bone Marrow Registry

Martin Seligman: Why is psychology good?

2011-01-26T05:33:00.000-08:00

Students Learn That Active Bodies Lead to Active Minds | Edutopia

2011-01-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

Students Learn That Active Bodies Lead to Active Minds | Edutopia

Therapy Thursday: Read the Signs

2011-01-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

Therapy Thursday: Read the Signs

GIFT YOURSELF TIME OUT

2011-01-19T10:46:00.000-08:00

Non-dual Guided Meditation from Juan Pablo Girardi on Vimeo.

Check Your Neck - January Is Thyroid Awareness Month

2011-01-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

Check Your Neck - January Is Thyroid Awareness Month

What Your Nails Tell You About Your Health

2011-01-17T19:46:00.001-08:00

The state of your nails can say a lot about your health. Dr. Oz reveals the 3 conditions your nails are trying to tip you off to. Learn more.

Learning the Practice of Mindful Eating - myOptumHealth

2011-01-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

Learning the Practice of Mindful Eating - myOptumHealth

Five Steps to a Healthier Heart

2011-01-16T10:25:00.000-08:00

Five Steps to a Healthier Heart

Exercise: Real Fountain of Youth for Boomers; Physical Fitness - AARP Bulletin

2011-01-15T04:02:00.000-08:00

Exercise: Real Fountain of Youth for Boomers; Physical Fitness - AARP Bulletin

Proper Posture and Neutral Spine are Important for Anti-Aging, Fitness - AARP

2011-01-14T08:34:00.000-08:00

Proper Posture and Neutral Spine are Important for Anti-Aging, Fitness - AARP

Exercises for cognitive and physical fitness - Brain Health News - AARP Bulletin

2011-01-12T14:34:00.000-08:00

Exercises for cognitive and physical fitness - Brain Health News - AARP Bulletin

Finding Hope Through Trials

2011-01-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

Finding Hope Through Trials

Aging Memory Loss – How to use Brain Aerobics to Build a Better Memory - Alzheimer's

2011-01-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

Aging Memory Loss – How to use Brain Aerobics to Build a Better Memory - Alzheimer's

WATCH THOSE SLEEVES

2011-01-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

One key to a happy home is a safe home. One room, which almost every member of the family goes into, that have accidents just waiting to happen is the kitchen. Some of those potential hot spots are pretty obvious but others are not as much. I have to admit I am dangerous to be with in the kitchen just because of the fact that since I am height challenged…I am guilty of the open cabinet doors syndrome, but this is one I am working hard at correcting. Just the other morning I decided to head upstairs to fix a snack and instead of having on my usual short sleeve tee and sweat pants, I just threw on the pretty blue soft robe. As I turned on the water to rinse out a glass the sleeve of my robe got soaked. I thought to myself…perhaps wearing long sleeves in the kitchen has other potential hazards. Our home cooks electric so there are no flames waiting to jump out to ignite the sleeve but for someone who cooks using gas any long sleeves could lead to a FLAMING DISASTER.
I am listing a few things to remember as the cook moves about creating those 2011 kitchen masterpieces:

1.Remember to always use hot pads and not grab towels or dish clothes to handle hot pots/pans
2.When stirring hot items, stir away from you
3.When removing the lid off hot item remove it away from you (just a few days ago I removed the top from the crock-pot towards me and my arm got a pretty good steam burn…ouch)!!!
4.Learn to use the proper knife for the job and use it properly
5.Take your time…rushing in the kitchen often leads to preventable accidents
These are just a few tips to start off to with...let's see what other ones we can come up with...be sure to add to the comment section…until later...bon appetit

Stop Diabetes PSA with Bret Michaels

2010-11-24T14:33:00.000-08:00

AFSP: National Survivors of Suicide Day

2010-11-20T06:34:00.000-08:00

AFSP: National Survivors of Suicide Day

TAKE A DEEP BREATH

2010-11-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

How does it feel when you take a deep breath in…does it remind you of sucking a thick shake through a straw…is it a little hard and seems to take out some of the enjoyment. It could be that you are among the estimated 12 million people who have what is known as COPD (Chronic Pulmonary Obstructive Disease). Along with that large number there could be just as many who have it and are unaware they do. Two common names you may be more familiar with are emphysema or chronic bronchitis. COPD is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States and is often a very debilitating disease.
Diagnosis COPD is the first step towards you learning what treatments will be best for you so that you will be able to have more quality of life and breathe easier. To help individuals who have COPD and those at risk (smokers or former smokers, those with environmental exposure, or those with genetic factors) the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has developed a national campaign called COPD Learn More Breathe Better. During the month of November (COPD Awareness Month) why not take a look at their website and share it with others. Also visit the COPD Foundation Blog to become actively involved in the battle against COPD.

YOUR LIVER...HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT IT?

2010-10-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Do you know the following facts about your liver...if you are like many the liver is not an organ we often think about but it is a very important one and we should be more aware of how to protect it. The following facts are from the American Liver Foundation site where you can learn more.

The liver is one of the body’s largest organs, performing hundreds of functions every day. It removes harmful substances from the blood, makes bile to help digest fat, and stores energy.

30 million Americans - one in every 10 - are or have been affected by a liver, biliary, or gallbladder disease.

Liver disease and cirrhosis are the 7th leading cause of death among adults between the ages of 25 and 64 in the U.S.

Many forms of liver disease are preventable, and many more, if detected early, can be treated effectively.

About 15,000 children are hospitalized every year with pediatric liver diseases or disorders.

There are more than 100 types of liver disease, but hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common.

There are vaccines that can protect you against hepatitis A and B, but not hepatitis C.

Chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease are the leading causes of cirrhosis in the U.S.

About one-third of the U.S. population becomes infected with hepatitis A during their lifetime, though most recover in a few weeks.

More than four million Americans have been infected with hepatitis C; it is responsible for 8,000-10,000 deaths annually.

1.4 million Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B; it is responsible for 5,000 deaths annually.

Hepatitis B and C significantly increase the risk of liver cancer, one of the only cancers currently on the rise in the U.S.

Hepatitis C is the number one reason for liver transplantation in this country.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH), an obesity-related chronic liver disease, may affect as many as one in every four adults over the age of 18.

OPEN WIDE FOR ORAL HEALTH

2010-10-21T07:21:00.000-07:00

Oral health is part of total health. Poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease has been shown to be associated with premature births and lower birth weights in babies whose mother have periodontal disease, increase in heart disease and a complication associated with diabetes. Proper oral examinations also help detect early signs of oral cancer.
October is National Dental Hygeine Month so take out some time to learn more how you can improve yours and your family's oral health. Visit American Dental Hygienist Association website.

WALKING THROUGH TILL YOU CAN WALK OUT

2010-10-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

This is not going to be the usual shout out about why you should leave, why the toxic relationship that you are in is no good for you...you have heard it before and I couldn't tell you anything new even if I tried to. What I hope to share is a way to help you walk through it until you are ready to walk out.
I have come to realize, as I reflect back on my life as a person who has been a partner in emotionally abusive relationships, leaving is a process. There are many considerations that an individual must look at and decide for themselves what will be the best way for it to end for them. NO ONE CAN WALK THE PATH YOU WALK. Am I saying you should stay...HELL NO...especially if you have children that are part of the chaos...but the steps are yours. I will say right here if you or your children are in imminent danger, there are firearms in the home, you have reached the point of being homicidal or the abuse has resulted in you or your children suffering serious physical harm..I SAY RUN... NOT WALK...NOW and work through the process somewhere other than where you are..somewhere safe. (more)

BREAST CANCER-YOU NEED TO KNOW

2010-10-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

October has arrived and in the Northeast there has been a chill in the air and much anticipation of the beautiful fall foliage that I often refer to as God's Finger-painting...but there is a more serious side of October...it is the month for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Despite years of pins, ribbons, hat and other awareness items, according to the CDC breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Hispanic women and second in African American, White, Asian/Pacific Islander and American Indian/Alaska Native women.
An Advisory Committee on Breast Cancer in Young (women under 40) has been established that will assist the CDC in developing approaches to advance the awareness of breast cancer among young women through prevention research, public and professional education and awareness activities.
Today, still the best way to first notice an abnormality of your breast is through self-examination and knowing what changes to look for. You can download the pamphlet Understanding Breast Changes: A Guide for Women. Recently there has been controversy over when women should begin to have mammograms, which is the best test to detect breast cancer. I recommend women speaking with their health care practitioner to determine their individual risk and what he/she advises. A recent frightening CDC statistic is that more than 7 million women have not had a recent screenings and that one of five women between the ages of 50-74 has never had a mammogram. For women in that age group they should at least have one every two years or whatever their history and practitioner deems appropriate.
There are lifestyle changes that lower your risk for developing breast cancer which are regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and minimize your alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day.
It is important to note that men can also develop breast cancer and should also be aware of the need to also examine their chest, pectoral muscle area, nipples, and underarms. If there is any discharge from the nipple he should bring this to the attention of his practitioner for further examination. Also men want to observe for any visual changes like discoloration, puckers, or patches.
There is no reason for women not to have mammograms. If cost is a concern The National Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programs offers free or low-cost mammograms. To find a program local to your area visit NBCCEDP
So as God blesses you with His “finger painting” masterpiece of the season...hit the email button and be a blessing...share with a friend and use the Health Care E-Card to send mammogram reminders.

KEEP BABIES SAFE- SIDS AWARENESS

2010-10-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome claims the lives of about 2,500 infants annually and remains despite research unpredictable. It is the leading cause of death for infants between the ages of 1 month to 1 year with the most cases occurring in infants 1 – 6 months of age.
There is no specific warning sign but there does appear to be a combination of risk factors associated with SIDS. The incidence of SIDS is higher during the cold weather months. Most SIDS death occurs in infants between 2 months to 4 months of age and more in boys than girls. The incidence of SIDS is three times higher in babies of Native American decent and two times higher in babies of African American decent.
Other risk factors include
*The use of tobacco products, alcohol and/or drugs during pregnancy
*The lack of early and continued prenatal care which often leads to premature births
or babies born with low birth weights
*Females giving birth before the age of 20
*Second hand smoke
*Overheating
*Placing baby on their stomach to sleep

There are steps that can be taken to lower a baby’s chance of SIDS
*Always place the baby on a safety approved crib mattress that is covered with a fitted sheet
*The crib should contain no soft objects, pillow bumpers, loose bedding or toys
*Breast feed your baby if possible
*Place the baby’s crib in the parents room when possible, if there is not room, do not place baby in bed with
*Avoid having the baby around individuals with a respiratory infection
*Offer the baby a pacifier at night
*Be sure the same information is given to any person that will care for the baby in your absence

The lost and grief associated with SIDS affects not only the parents, siblings, grandparent but also many others individuals that cared for and loved the child. It is important that these individuals take advantage of grief counseling services when needed and not feel that they have to face their grief alone. Don’t try to put on a good face or feel you need to be strong for others but allow yourself time to grieve and reach out to others who have experienced the same lost. Visit SIDS Families for support.
Research continues to determine more facts to help the number of deaths to SIDS continue to decline…but everyone who cares for infants must do their part to keep babies safe during sleep.

Get the pamphlet for Safe Sleep For Babies