Recent HealthMart Tips
-
Asthma in Infants
Asthma in InfantsFew things are as unsettling as a sick baby, struggling to breathe – especially when it's yours! And, figuring out the source of the problem can be ...
Posted Apr 18, 2011 2:36 PM by Tim Vandehey
-
Controlling Allergies
Controlling AllergiesApril 2011 Wellness Column In today's economy – where every dollar counts – budgeting can be about as painful as a root canal. So, when it comes to something ...
Posted Mar 12, 2011 8:05 AM by Tim Vandehey
-
Is Aspirin a Wonder Drug?
Is Aspirin a Wonder Drug? It's been around for more than 100 years. It's one of the world's most widely used pain relievers. And, its uses just ...
Posted Feb 11, 2011 12:42 PM by Tim Vandehey
|
posted Apr 18, 2011 2:33 PM by Tim Vandehey
Asthma in Infants
Few things are as unsettling as a sick baby, struggling to breathe – especially when it's yours! And, figuring out the source of the problem can be a bit of a puzzle, particularly if your infant has asthma. That's because asthma in infants can have many faces. Babies with asthma often have sudden, severe wheezing and trouble breathing, just as older children do. But asthma in infants may also show up as chronic coughing, noisy breathing, or "chest colds."1
Asthma is a chronic lung disease. It makes the airways swell, tighten, and produce too much mucus. Severe asthma attacks can require a trip to the emergency room. And, uncontrolled asthma can damage the lungs over time.2 So, this is not something to ignore. If your baby has unexplained respiratory symptoms, stay alert and in communication with the pediatrician. Be prepared to tell the doctor how and when symptoms get worse. This can help rule out problems and confirm a diagnosis of asthma.
If anti-asthma medications relieve any wheezing and coughing, the diagnosis is pretty clear. But in some cases, other asthma mimics need to be ruled out. These include viral infections or congenital conditions or diseases such as cystic fibrosis.1 If it turns out your baby does have asthma, you may be wondering what caused it and what to do next! Although no one really knows the cause, your genes may play a role. Other factors may also come into play. Some doctors think breastfeeding the first year can help prevent asthma, but the evidence doesn't yet support this.1,3
Keeping your baby away from common asthma triggers such as cigarette smoke, aerosol sprays, pet dander, and dust mites may lessen symptoms of asthma.3 If you suspect a certain food is causing an allergic reaction, this could also trigger asthma. Remove the food from your baby's diet, and then reintroduce it, to see what happens. However, it's hard to do very much about other common triggers, such as crying, respiratory infections, and weather changes.1
Prescription anti-inflammatory medications are the other mainstay of asthma treatment for infants. Your baby may need a combination of different types of medications. Be clear about whether you should give medication continuously or only when symptoms appear. A nebulizer uses forced air to send out a mist of medication that your baby can breathe through a mask. Don't be alarmed if it takes a little while for your baby to get used to this. If your child is a toddler, it may be possible to use an inhaler with a spacer (a small tube).3
Are you concerned about trying these medications in such a small child? Remember that, along with your child's pediatrician, I can help guide you in their safe and effective use. But whatever you do, don't put off seeking care – even if you think your child may "outgrow" this problem. Some kids' asthma does get better with time, but the best results come with adequate treatment.1,2
Sources
- Cleveland Allergy & Asthma Center: "Asthma in Infants." http://clevelandallergyasthmacenter.com/infants/
- Nemours Foundation: "Wheezing and Asthma in Infants." http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/asthma/wheezing_asthma.html
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: "Asthma in Infants." http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=17&cont=160
|
posted Mar 12, 2011 7:58 AM by Tim Vandehey
Controlling Allergies April 2011 Wellness Column In today's economy – where every dollar counts – budgeting can be about as painful as a root canal. So, when it comes to something like allergy control, you may feel you don't have anything left over to spend. Still, there's no need to suffer in silence. A few simple steps can make a big difference, while costing very little. To start, think about the things you can do that are free – or practically free. For example, clear out items that might be collecting dust mites. Think extra pillows, throw rugs, or stuffed animals. Are hypoallergenic pillows and comforters or allergen-proof covers (starting around $65) too costly for you? Then keep bed linens and other items around that can be washed in hot water. And, rent a steam cleaner for about $25 a day to steamroll those nasty little allergens lurking in carpets. Speaking of cleaning, dust and pollen masks and nonlatex gloves are very low-cost ways to whip through the housework (or gardening) without exposing yourself to extra allergens. Microfiber hypoallergenic cloths are specially designed to attract dust and allow you to clean without the use of chemicals. They generally cost around $1 to $2 a piece. Use a diluted bleach solution to wipe down surfaces in bathrooms and other places. And, even if you don't have a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaner, don't forget to change your vacuum bag at least once a month. A washable rubber mat at the front door will cut back on what gets tracked in. If you can spring for a portable air cleaner, make sure you find one that doesn't produce ozone. This can make allergies worse. A good place to research these products is at the website of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) [www.cadr.org/]. Here, you can find information about all kinds air filtering technologies, from HEPA to ionization. Short of buying an air cleaner, though, it might help to buy a pleated paper furnace filter with a MERV rating of 7 to 13. These capture many of the allergens HEPA filters do and cost around $10. Electrostatic filters do a similar job and cost around $15. Humidity is also an important factor when trying to control allergies. You want it low enough to control dust mites, but not so low it irritates your nasal passages. A $15 hygrometer can help you see if you're in a safer range – between 30 and 50 percent humidity. Then you can use a humidifier or dehumidifier to achieve the right level. To help keep those nasal passages clear, consider using a bulb syringe or neti pot ($15), filled with lukewarm saline. Remember: Many of these products are available in our store. And, of course, don't forget about over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications, such as pills, eyedrops, and nasal sprays. Check with me about any prescription medications that may now be available as cheaper OTC medications. For example, a wide range of Allegra products, the best-selling antihistamine, is now available over the counter. And one final note: If you or your child needs allergy shots, you may be heartened to learn this: A 10-year study showed that allergy shots reduce overall health care costs in children by one-third and prescription costs by 16 percent. A pretty sound investment. |
posted Feb 11, 2011 12:39 PM by Tim Vandehey
[
updated Feb 11, 2011 12:42 PM
]
Is Aspirin a Wonder Drug? It's been around for more than 100 years. It's one of the world's most widely used pain relievers. And, its uses just seem to keep multiplying. Is aspirin a wonder drug? For those who've benefited, it might seem that way. The latest news of aspirin's potential benefits has to do with breast cancer. A study of more than 4,000 women in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) showed a benefit for breast cancer survivors who had taken aspirin two to five times a week for a long time. They had a 50 percent lower risk of dying from breast cancer. They also had a 50 percent lower risk of their cancer spreading.[1] Combined data from the NHS and another study have also shown promising results for patients with colorectal cancer. Those taking aspirin long term lowered their risk of dying from the disease by nearly 30 percent and their overall risk of dying by about 20 percent. (The study didn't look, however, at those with advanced disease.) Other types of cancer have shown similar results. What could account for such benefits? Some believe it has something to do with aspirin's ability to lower inflammation. However, this has not yet been proven. Now, before you rush out and stock up on aspirin, know this: The American Cancer Society doesn't recommend taking aspirin to prevent cancer. That's because its preventive benefits are unknown and the risks often outweigh the benefits. And, if you're being treated for cancer, it's especially important to know that taking aspirin at the same time as radiation or chemotherapy can cause side effects. Regular aspirin use has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood flow problems. That's why many people who've had a heart or stroke, or those at higher risk, take it regularly. A recent study also shows that it is effective at keeping nine out of ten coronary artery bypass grafts open after surgery. How does it help keep arteries clear? It works by affecting the blood's clotting and keeping clots from blocking blood flow. Regular aspirin use is not for everyone. Don't take aspirin long term without first discussing it with your doctor. Side effects can include ringing in the ears, bleeding in the brain or stomach, kidney failure, or certain kinds of strokes. Regular aspirin use is a poor choice for pregnant women or those who have: - Asthma
- Stomach ulcers
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- A bleeding disorder
- Heart failure
- Allergies to aspirin
If your doctor decides that aspirin is the right choice for you, you'll need to follow his or her instructions carefully. Aspirin labels don't contain guidelines for this type of use. If you have questions about whether the product you've bought contains aspirin at the right dose, be sure to stop by and discuss this with me. If your doctor prescribes daily aspirin, be sure to discuss all the medications you're taking. Also, let other health care providers know you're taking aspirin. And, don't stop taking it suddenly. This could increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke by triggering formation of a clot.
[1] Reuters. "Aspirin cuts death risk after breast cancer: U.S. study." http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_95356.html |
posted Jan 24, 2011 10:02 AM by Tim Vandehey
Health Mart By Annie Stuart Cholesterol-Lowering Foods: The Fabulous Five
You've been told to lower your cholesterol, a form of fat made by the liver and present in some foods. What's your first thought? If you're like many people, you may think first about what you need to stop eating. But did you know that adding certain foods to your diet may do as much to improve your cholesterol as medication? These foods are so effective that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says they can carry the health claim for managing cholesterol. Here are the fabulous five foods. 1. Soluble fiber. Sometimes called roughage, soluble fiber reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is the portion of plant products that pushes food through the digestive system. It seems to lower cholesterol levels by reducing its absorption in the intestines. Aim for 10 grams or more a day. Examples of soluble fiber include: - Oatmeal
- Fruit
- Kidney beans
- Psyllium
- Barley
2. Nuts. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, many kinds of nuts reduce cholesterol and help keep blood vessels healthy and elastic. Aim for a handful each day or about 1.5 ounces. Remember that nuts are high in calories, so more isn't better. Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease. To keep fats to a minimum, make substitutions. For example, add nuts to salads instead of cheese or meat. Examples of nuts to include in your diet are: - Walnuts
- Almonds
- Peanuts
- Pecans
- Pine nuts
- Pistachios
- Hazelnuts
3. Fish. Fatty fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps lower cholesterol and reduce blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. Aim for two servings of fish each week. You can also take an omega-3 or fish oil supplement or eat ground flaxseed or canola oil. Examples of fish high in omega-3 fatty acids are: - Mackerel
- Lake trout
- Salmon
- Albacore tuna
- Sardines
- Herring
4. Olive oil. Many people think all oil is bad. But it's not quite that simple. Olive oil packs a powerful punch that lowers "bad" cholesterol, but doesn't touch the "good" kind, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Extra-virgin olive oil may have the best effects. Aim for 2 tablespoons of olive oil each day. You can use olive oil to sauté foods, baste meat, or as a salad dressing when mixed with vinegar. 5. Fortified foods. Some foods are now fortified with plant sterols or stanols. These are substances that block the absorption of cholesterol. Aim for 2 grams a day of plant sterols. That's equal to two 8-ounce servings of juice or about 15 grams of enriched spreads a day. Examples of the kinds of foods fortified with these substances are: - Margarines
- Low-fat spreads
- Orange juice
- Yogurt drinks
Of course, it's important to add all this advice to the old standard: Eat less of saturated fats, including meats and some oils, and try to eliminate trans fats. Trans fats still show up in some baked goods like cakes, cookies, and crackers. They raise LDL and lower HDL. And remember: Exercise and weight control are two other pieces of the cholesterol-control puzzle. If you want to learn more, talk with me or go to www.healthmart.com/ |
posted Dec 13, 2010 10:10 AM by Tim Vandehey
[
updated Dec 13, 2010 10:16 AM
]
Nutrition 101
You've probably heard it all before. Maybe the advice has even been so drilled into your head that it's simply become background noise: Eat your veggies. Choose whole grains. Banish the trans fats…. Et cetera, et cetera. Well, it may all be old news, but the age-old mantra is still true: "You are what you eat." So, here's a brief nutrition review, along with a couple of tips on how to begin making changes.
These are the basics of a healthy eating plan: - Look for a rainbow of fruits and veggies. If you choose a variety of colors, you'll get a variety of nutrients – go for orange veggies and dark leafy greens, for example, along with dry beans and peas such as kidney beans, split peas, or lentils. And for the most benefits, choose whole fruits, not juice. Shoot for 5 to 6 servings each day.
- Got milk? Aim for 3 servings. A serving is 1 cup of milk or yogurt, 2 cups of cottage cheese, or 1½ ounces of cheese. If you're lactose intolerant, look for beverages that are free of milk products but are fortified with calcium. Make low-fat and nonfat choices most often.
- Eat the "whole" thing. Choose whole-grain breads, rice, cereals, crackers or pasta. Three ounces is a good daily goal.
- Be lean (not mean). Choose 5 ½ to 6 ounces of lean meats and poultry but mix up your protein choices. If you're a diehard carnivore, remember that protein is found in plants, too. Include fish, nuts, seeds, and beans in your meal plans.
- Go easy on the extras. The Nutrition Facts label is your friend! Look for foods low in saturated fats, salt (sodium), and added sugars. Nix the trans fats altogether.
Not many of us are great at keeping track of calories and serving sizes. Check out this nifty, new online calculator that does it for you: www.myfoodapedia.gov. Type in the name of a food you want more information about. With one click of your mouse, you'll see what food group it falls into, how much a serving size is, and how many calories are in a serving. You can also compare it with another similar food. For example, if you're wondering how your cereals stack up with one another, you can quickly find out. You might be surprised to learn that homemade granola has three times the calories of Grape-Nuts. Now, I'm the first to admit that making dietary changes isn't easy. Rather than trying to change everything at once, choose one change to start with. For example, try adding one more serving of veggies a day. Or, start eating breakfast if you aren't already. Or switch from snacks with empty calories (soda) to nutrient-rich snacks (an apple with peanut butter). Focus on how much better you feel and how your food choices can improve your overall health. If you've made diet changes and are still troubled by weight gain, talk with our pharmacy staff. Perhaps a medication could be causing the problem. Your doctor may be able to change your prescription. For more information, visit www.healthmart.com and click on “Health and Wellness.” In the Wellness Library, you'll find a wealth of information about nutrition – from a guide to organic foods to a look at senior nutrition.
|
posted Nov 11, 2010 10:27 AM by Tim Vandehey
The Basics of Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Have you heard about Medicare prescription drug coverage, but you're not quite sure how it works? Also called "Part D," this type of insurance helps you pay for prescription drugs at participating pharmacies like ours. No matter your health or income, you are eligible for it if you have Medicare.
To avoid a penalty, you need to sign up for it as soon as you become eligible for Medicare. (This is the period three months before and three months after your 65th birthday.) Even if you don't need a lot of medications now, you might later. That's why it makes sense to consider joining, so you'll pay a lower price in the future.
Whether or not you choose Part D coverage depends in part on how good your current coverage is. If you're currently covered through your employer or union, they will provide information that tells you how much your current plan covers compared with Medicare.
You can get Part D coverage in one of two ways: You can join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP). Or, or you can join a Medicare Advantage Plan (MA-PD) or another Medicare Health Plan that offers drug coverage. You get all your Medicare coverage, including Part D, through a Medicare Advantage Plan. Both brand-name and generic medications are covered under either plan.
Available to you through private companies approved by Medicare, these plans vary in cost and the drugs covered. So choose a plan that works best for you. If you need more coverage, for example, you might choose a plan with a higher premium. And, you'll want to make sure the plan you choose covers the drugs you need. The list of drugs covered through the plan is called a formulary. If you want to, you can change your plan each year between November 15 and December 31. Then the new plan begins on January 1.
Although Medicare doesn't cover all your drug costs, it can protect you if you have high or unexpected prescription drug bills. Monthly premiums range from $8 to $121 with a deductible and small copay for each drug. Premiums are the monthly cost you pay to join a drug plan. The deductible is the amount you pay for prescriptions before the plan kicks in. Copayments are the amount you pay after you've paid the full deductible. If you qualify for extra help due to limited resources, you may not have to pay a premium or deductible. To learn more about this, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
If you don't qualify for extra help, your drug plan may have what's called the "donut hole." This coverage gap is a period when you will have to pay for all your prescription drug costs yourself, unless you have a plan that offers some coverage during this gap. It begins once you and your plan have spent $2,830 on prescription drugs. After that, you continue to pay your monthly premium and pay for the next $4,550 of your drug costs. (These figures are for 2010.) In 2010, if you entered the ‘donut hole’ you will receive a one-time $250 rebate check if you are not already receiving Medicare Extra Help. These checks mailed mid-June. Once you reach your coverage gap limit, you pay a small amount for each of your drugs for the rest of the year. In 2011, if you reach your coverage gap, you will receive a 50% discount when buying Part D-covered brand-name prescriptions drugs.
If you need more information to help you compare plans, go to www.medicare.gov/ or call 1-800-633-4226. I can also provide you with resources that might simplify things for you. |
posted Nov 11, 2010 10:26 AM by Tim Vandehey
The Intriguing Link Between Diabetes and Alzheimer's Did you know that having diabetes before age 65 more than doubles your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease? A study of nearly 14,000 Swedish twins helped to confirm this link. Given that more than 23 million Americans have diabetes and 57 million more have pre-diabetes, this is a bit of a concern. But the link between these two diseases may be stronger still. In fact, some now think of Alzheimer's as a form of diabetes. They call it type 3 diabetes.
But first, a review. What exactly are diabetes and Alzheimer's?
Diabetes is a chronic disease where your body has high levels of sugar. That's true for one of two main reasons: Your body doesn't make enough of a hormone called insulin (type 1 diabetes). Or, your body doesn't respond well to insulin (type 2 diabetes). Diabetes can cause frequent urination, unusual thirst, and a wide range of other symptoms. It can cause serious – even fatal – complications. People with pre-diabetes also have high glucose levels. But they're not as high as with full-blown diabetes.
Alzheimer's is a common type of dementia that worsens over time. It causes memory loss, confusion, and many other changes. It eventually leads to death. Scientists have long debated about the changes in the brain that lead to Alzheimer's. But now they are paying closer attention to the role of insulin. Not only are people at increased risk for Alzheimer's if they have diabetes. But many people with Alzheimer's are also resistant to insulin.
Could low insulin or insulin resistance in the brain be the cause of Alzheimer's in some cases? Lower insulin is linked with mental decline. By helping cells take up energy in the brain, insulin likely plays a key role in the growth and survival of nerve cells and memories. Researchers are now experimenting with inhaled insulin as a treatment for Alzheimer's. It has improved memory in patients with early stages of Alzheimer's but it appears to have limitations.
So, rather than diabetes simply being a cause of brain changes, both diabetes and Alzheimer's may result from similar causes. The idea that one disease can affect many organs is certainly not new. After all, atherosclerosis affects the kidneys, brain and heart. Now, we know that diabetes and Alzheimer's may be a part of the same disease process.
Before you become too discouraged about the threat of all these diseases, though, remember this: Many of the factors that contribute to both Alzheimer's and diabetes (and atherosclerosis, for that matter) are within your control. Weight loss, exercise, stress management, and a healthy diet can help prevent or help keep diabetes in check. And, it's possible these lifestyle changes could play an even bigger role with Alzheimer's than once thought.
For a wealth of information on these diseases, go to www.healthmart.com/. And, don’t forget: If you need any guidance on diabetes management, I'm here to help. Or, be sure to ask me if you have questions about your loved one's Alzheimer's medications. |
posted Nov 11, 2010 10:08 AM by Tim Vandehey
Should You Get a Flu Shot? The flu is a respiratory infection that's caused by many different viruses. Up to one in five people get the flu in the U.S. each year. It comes on suddenly, causes worse symptoms than the cold, and can be serious for some people. As you know, last year, a new strain of flu was thrown into the mix. Called swine flu at first, then H1N1, it caused symptoms similar to regular flu, such as fever, cough, aches, chills, and fatigue.
Did you get a flu shot last year? If you're someone who's always thought flu shots are just for your grandparents, think again. For the 2010–11 flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that almost everyone get a flu shot. That is, everyone six months and older. These changes will simplify guidelines that have been confusing to many people. You should know that the new flu vaccine will include the H1N1 strain.
Any shortage in vaccine supplies this season may slightly alter a plan to vaccinate everyone at once, however. In that case, the CDC may prioritize vaccines as it has in the past. It would first target people who are at higher risk of developing complications from the flu. This includes people who are 65 and older and pregnant women. Also, people with certain chronic medical conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, would take priority. In addition, it is also important for those coming into close contact with these people to get vaccinated early.
Now, if you're pregnant, you may wonder if it is safe to get a flu shot. The short answer is, yes. However, this is not true if you have a severe allergy to eggs. That's because the ingredients for flu shots are grown inside eggs. Also, you should not get a vaccine if you have had a severe reaction to a flu shot in the past. If you're pregnant, request the flu shot, not the nasal spray vaccine. It is made from an inactivated virus. This makes it safe for you and your baby during pregnancy. Avoid trying to get pregnant for four weeks after a vaccination with a nasal spray vaccine.
So, when should you get a flu vaccine? Now is a good time to start thinking about it. Flu season runs from November to April. Most cases hit between the end of December and early March. You can probably get the vaccine starting in September. It's best to do it as early as possible so you can head off any infections "at the pass." Getting the flu shot early gives your body time to build up immunity. This means it will protect you better against the flu.
If you haven't gotten the vaccine by December or so, or if it hasn't been available for some reason, still go ahead and get it when you can. Remember that the nasal mist vaccine is only for healthy, non-pregnant people who are between 2 and 49 years old.
If you do develop cough and cold symptoms, stop in to see us. We can help you select the best over the counter medications to help put you on the road to recovery. |
posted Sep 16, 2010 4:27 PM by Tim Vandehey
Cholesterol-Lowering Foods: The Fabulous Five
You've been told to lower your
cholesterol, a form of fat made by the liver and present in some
foods. What's your first thought? If you're like many people, you may
think first about what you need to stop eating. But did you
know that adding certain foods to your diet may do as much to
improve your cholesterol as medication? These foods are so effective
that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says they can carry the
health claim for managing cholesterol.
Here are the fabulous five foods.
1. Soluble fiber. Sometimes
called roughage, soluble fiber reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
– the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is the portion of
plant products that pushes food through the digestive system. It
seems to lower cholesterol levels by reducing its absorption in the
intestines. Aim for 10 grams or more a day. Examples of soluble fiber
include:
Oatmeal
Fruit
Kidney beans
Psyllium
Barley
2. Nuts. Rich in
polyunsaturated fatty acids, many kinds of nuts reduce cholesterol
and help keep blood vessels healthy and elastic. Aim for a handful
each day or about 1.5 ounces. Remember that nuts are high in
calories, so more isn't better. Being overweight increases your risk
of heart disease. To keep fats to a minimum, make substitutions. For
example, add nuts to salads instead of cheese or meat. Examples of
nuts to include in your diet are:
Walnuts
Almonds
Peanuts
Pecans
Pine nuts
Pistachios
Hazelnuts
3. Fish. Fatty fish is
high in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps lower cholesterol and reduce
blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. Aim for two servings of
fish each week. You can also take an omega-3 or fish oil supplement
or eat ground flaxseed or canola oil.
Examples of fish high in omega-3 fatty
acids are:
Mackerel
Lake trout
Salmon
Albacore tuna
Sardines
Herring
4. Olive oil. Many
people think all oil is bad. But it's not quite that simple. Olive
oil packs a powerful punch that lowers "bad" cholesterol,
but doesn't touch the "good" kind, high-density lipoprotein
(HDL) cholesterol. Extra-virgin olive oil may have the best effects.
Aim for 2 tablespoons of olive oil each day. You can use olive oil to
sauté foods, baste meat, or as a salad dressing when mixed with
vinegar.
5. Fortified foods. Some
foods are now fortified with plant sterols or stanols. These are
substances that block the absorption of cholesterol. Aim for 2 grams
a day of plant sterols. That's equal to two 8-ounce servings of juice
or about 15 grams of enriched spreads a day. Examples of the kinds of
foods fortified with these substances are:
Margarines
Low-fat spreads
Orange juice
Yogurt drinks
Of course, it's important to add all
this advice to the old standard: Eat less of saturated fats,
including meats and some oils, and try to eliminate trans fats. Trans
fats still show up in some baked goods like cakes, cookies, and
crackers. They raise LDL and lower HDL. And remember: Exercise and
weight control are two other pieces of the cholesterol-control
puzzle. If you want to learn more or to find out if you are at risk,
talk with me or go to www.healthmart.com
.
Sources:
WebMD. "Cholesterol-Lowering Foods." http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/cholesterol-lowering-foods Mayo Clinic. "Cholesterol: The top 5 foods to lower your numbers."http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cholesterol/CL00002/METHOD=print Healthcarerepublic. "New Study Supports the Cholesterol Lowering Effectives of Pro.Activ Spreads." http://www.healthcarerepublic.com/news/931700/New-Study-Supports-Cholesterol-Lowering-Effects-ProActiv-Spreads/
|
posted Aug 24, 2010 8:52 AM by Tim Vandehey
The flu is a respiratory infection
that's caused by many different viruses. Up to one in five people get
the flu in the U.S. each year.1
It comes on suddenly, causes worse symptoms than the cold, and can be
serious for some people. As you know, last year, a new strain of flu
was thrown into the mix. Called swine flu at first, then H1N1, it
caused symptoms similar to regular flu, such as fever, cough, aches,
chills, and fatigue.2
Did you get a flu shot last year? If
you're someone who's always thought flu shots are just for your
grandparents, think again. For the 2010–11 flu season, the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that almost
everyone get a flu shot. That is, everyone six months and older.
These changes will simplify guidelines that have been confusing to
many people. You should know that the new flu vaccine will include
the H1N1 strain.3
Any shortage in vaccine supplies this
season may slightly alter a plan to vaccinate everyone at once,
however. In that case, the CDC may prioritize vaccines as it has in
the past. It would first target people who are at higher risk of
developing complications from the flu. This includes people who are
65 and older and pregnant women. Also, people with certain chronic
medical conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, would take
priority. In addition, it is also important for those coming into
close contact with these people to get vaccinated early.3
Now, if you're pregnant, you may
wonder if it is safe to get a flu shot. The short answer is, yes.
However, this is not true if you have a severe allergy to eggs.
That's because the ingredients for flu shots are grown inside eggs.
Also, you should not get a vaccine if you have had a severe reaction
to a flu shot in the past. If you're pregnant, request the flu shot,
not the nasal spray vaccine. It is made from an inactivated virus.
This makes it safe for you and your baby during pregnancy. Avoid
trying to get pregnant for four weeks after a vaccination with a
nasal spray vaccine.4
So, when should you get a flu vaccine?
Now is a good time to start thinking about it. Flu season runs from
November to April. Most cases hit between the end of December and
early March. You can probably get the vaccine starting in September.
It's best to do it as early as possible so you can head off any
infections "at the pass." Getting the flu shot early gives
your body time to build up immunity. This means it will protect you
better against the flu.5
If you haven't gotten the vaccine by
December or so, or if it hasn't been available for some reason, still
go ahead and get it when you can. Remember that the nasal mist
vaccine is only for healthy, non-pregnant people who are between 2
and 49 years old.5
If you do develop cough and cold
symptoms, stop in to see us. We can help you select the best over
the counter medications to help put you on the road to recovery.
|
|
