July 2015 - Health Beat

Healthy Cookout Tips for this Summer

Posted on July 30, 2015 by Michael Hinck

One of the best things about the summer is spending time with family and friends at cookouts and barbeques. While we look forward to these outings, the foods found can cause us to pack on the pounds. Whether attending or hosting your next summer gathering, try some of these calorie conscious techniques:

• Skip the chips and dip. Instead, try healthier alternatives, like fresh vegetables. If you want to make a dip, use non-fat yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise.

• Try kabobs. They offer the same opportunity to enjoy grilled chicken, beef, or pork, but minus the bread. Plus, the grilled vegetables on them will help you fill up.

• If you insist on having a burger or hot dog, choose healthier options, such as chicken or turkey instead of beef. Also, avoid whit flout buns and breads and opt for whole grains instead.

• Instead of heavy macaroni or potato salads loaded with mayonnaise, look for salads with a vinaigrette base as a lighter alternative.

• Don’t limit yourself to just grilling meat. There are many types of fish that are not only healthier, but also taste great on the grill. Vegetables, lightly coated in olive oil are also tasty and filling.

• For dessert, serve some refreshing summer fruit, such as cherries, peaches, plums or melons.
By following these tips, you can still enjoy your summer, but not pay for it in the fall.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

The 10 Best Reasons to Breastfeed

Posted on July 30, 2015 by Zuleika Benitez

You may have heard it before, but the message is clear- Breastfeeding is beneficial for both baby and mother. If you are still undecided, here are JHMC’s top 10 reasons for choosing breastfeeding as the best form of nutrition for your newborn baby:

It provides nutrients and protection. The first milk, called colostrum, is the perfect first food for babies. Your breast milk’s antibodies help protect baby from the cold and flu and boost his ability to fight off more serious illnesses such as certain cancers like leukemia and Hodgkin’s disease.
It’s always ready & the right temperature. No need to decipher whether your milk is too hot or cold, simply place baby to breast for her feeding.
Creates a greater bond between mother and infant. The skin-to-skin contact you both receive from breastfeeding creates a greater bond since breastfeeding releases the “bonding hormone” oxytocin. The same hormone that’s released when you hug or kiss a loved one.
Provides protection for Mom as well. According to the National Cancer Institute, breastfeeding is associated with a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Financially beneficial on the family budget. According to La Leche League International, the cost of formula can range anywhere from $134 to $491 per month. That’s $1,608 to $5,892 in one year! Breastfeeding costs nothing because you are producing milk. If you choose to express your milk, many insurance plans will cover double electric breast pumps.
Breastfed babies are smarter. Various researchers have found a connection between breastfeeding and cognitive development. Studies concluded from IQ scores and other intelligence tests that prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding significantly improves cognitive development.
Helps Mom’s back to their pre-baby shape. With a healthy diet, mom receives the benefits of breastfeeding by burning an average of 500 calories a day, which can help shed those post baby pounds faster than just diet alone.
Lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends breastfeeding for as long as possible to reduce the risk of SIDS. AGerman study published in 2009 found that breastfeeding – either exclusively or partially – is associated with a lower risk of SIDS. The researchers concluded that exclusive breastfeeding at 1 month of age cut the risk of SIDS in half.
Helps with a natural method of birth control. According to the World Health Organization, exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a natural (though not fail-safe) method of birth control offering a 98% protection in the first six months after birth.
Creates confidence in mothers.
Nursing mothers have reported increased self-confidence and a closer connection to their babies.

Viral Hepatitis “The Silent Epidemic”- How Dangerous is This Disease?

Posted on July 28, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

The medical community has labeled viral hepatitis, “The Silent Epidemic,” because there are millions of people living in the United States with some form of the disease. What is most alarming is 65% of these people are unaware that they are infected and are unknowingly contributing to the rapid spread of the virus.

Viral hepatitis is characterized by the inflammation of the liver and is most commonly caused by the hepatitis A, B or C virus. Each type of hepatitis has its severities and can develop into chronic or life-threatening conditions, such as liver cancer, liver failure or cirrhosis (scarring and dysfunction of the liver). While the degree of severity may differ with each strain, the advanced symptoms that present themselves are similar.

Symptoms may include:

Dark urine
Diarrhea
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes and tongue)
Weight loss
Itchy skin
Light colored feces
Muscle or joint pain

Transmission of viral hepatitis differs with each form of the virus.

Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) – Is caused by consuming infected food and water or anal to oral contact during sex. Prevention includes washing your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, drinking bottled or treated water and eating food that has been thoroughly cleaned.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) – Is a sexually transmitted disease. HBV is 50-100 times more infectious than HIV. It is spread by contact with bodily fluids such as blood or semen. Prevention includes practicing safe sex, using clean syringes, tattoo or acupuncture needles and not sharing personal items such as razor or toothbrushes.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) – Is transmitted by direct contact with the blood of a person who has the disease. Prevention includes covering wounds, not sharing personal effects such as razors, manicure equipment or toothbrushes and using sterilized needles.

It is important for people to know their status and help combat the rapid acceleration of viral hepatitis. Public health organizations such as the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) encourage people to get screened for the disease whether or not they are displaying symptoms. Individuals who are infected should seek treatment and exercise methods to prevent transmission.Health organizations are also increasing their efforts in educating the public about Hepatitis by promoting campaigns during Hepatitis Awareness Month, which is designated as May in the United States.

7 Amazing Facts About Your Lips

Posted on July 27, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

1. The color of your lips is caused by visible blood capillaries under your skin. They are visible because the lips have one of the thinnest layers of skin on the body.
2. They are the most sensitive part on your body-they have over 1 million nerve endings.
3.Lips never sweat- because they do not have sweat glands.
4. They get thinner as you get older.
5.They are unique- like finger prints.
6.They are the only parts of the body where the inside extends to the outside. The membrane that makes up the inner lips also makes the outer lips.
7.The dip above your upper lip is called the Philtrum

Swimmer’s Ear

Posted on July 23, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

Swimmer’s ear is a bacterial infection that affects the outermost portion of the ear canal. A common cause is the accumulation of water in this portion of the canal that leads to a bacterial infection. It can also be caused by the insertion of unclean foreign objects into the ear that irritate the lining of the ear canal.
Signs and symptoms of swimmer’s ear are:
• Redness in the ear canal
• Itchiness in the ear
• Fluid discharge which may include pus
• Muffled hearing
• Sensation of fullness in the ear
• Fever if the infection is severe
A few factors that can make a person more susceptible to swimmer’s ear are:
• Swimming in water that isn’t clean
• Having a narrow ear canal
• Abrasion of the ear canal by improper use of a cotton swab
• Reduced production or improper removal of ear wax
It is important to treat swimmer’s ear as soon as possible in order to prevent serious complications such as hearing loss. Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment options are ear drops containing antibiotics, steroid, and a mild acidic solution. Have your physician evaluate the problem as soon as possible. If you would like to make an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7001.

Should You Give Your Toe Nails a Break from Polish this Summer?

Posted on July 22, 2015 by Michael Hinck

Ladies, how often do you get a pedicure in the summer?

While many women love to have their toenails painted their favorite color during open-toe season, the truth is, your toe nails could benefit from a break from polish.

Doctors suggest giving your toenails some time off between nail polish applications. Leaving nail polish on too long can be dangerous because the pigment in it can seep into the top layers of your nails and dry them out. When this happens, bacteria, mold, and mildew can develop under the nail plate, which can lead to long-term problems. By removing the polish from your nails and exposing them to the air, you are allowing them to breathe and remain healthy.

This summer, remember to give your toe nails an occasional break. While it may be difficult to give up wearing your favorite polish throughout the season, avoiding problems associated with unhealthy nails are far more beneficial.

Self- Tanning: A Practical Alternative to Sun Bathing

Posted on July 22, 2015 by Zuleika Benitez

Summer is a time to have fun in the sun and work on the tan you have been dreaming of since the winter. However, sun tanning can cause skin cancer, premature aging, cataracts and painful burns. If you’re concerned about the safest way of tanning, a practical alternative to sun bathing can be self- tanning.

Self-tanning products are available as lotions, creams, sprays, and in towelette or wipe form. These products contain a chemical called dihydroxyac ThinkstockPhotos-179035045 etone (DHA), a color additive that darkens the skin. Concentrations of DHA used in sunless tanning preparations are considered non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. These products can typically contain between three and five percent of DHA. When used properly, DHA is considered safe. Most dermatologists agree that the spray-on tans or the tans in a bottle, which basically causes coloration of the outer layer of the epidermis, are safe and effective. As with anything, spray tanning can be used moderately and not habitually.

If you have considered self-tanning, follow the package directions and protect your eyes, mouth and nose when spray tanning to avoid inhaling the product. The browning effect occurs within a few hours and is temporary- your faux color fades in seven to ten days as the skin naturally sloughs off.

Whichever choice you decide, make sure to take precaution either way and enjoy all the summer time has to offer.

Facts About AFib (Atrial Fibrillation)

Posted on July 21, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Afib- Heart-177545642 Atrial Fibrillation or AFib is a type of heart arrhythmia (an irregularity in the rhythm of the heart), which is caused by a disorder of the heart’s electrical system.

Normally, the heart’s electrical system rhythmically contracts the upper chambers (atria) of the heart in synergy with the lower chambers (ventricles). However, with AFib the heart’s two upper chambers contract rapidly and out of sync with the lower chambers.

Each person’s experience with AFib may differ; some people may have no symptoms, while others may have incidents of:

Heart palpitations
Dizziness
Chest discomfort
Fatigue
Shortness of breath

If you are frequently experiencing these symptoms, make an appointment to see your physician. Your doctor will run the following to diagnose atrial fibrillation: electrocardiogram, trans- telephonic monitor, holter monitor or portable event monitor testing.

If symptoms are ignored and AFib goes untreated it can develop into serious health complications such as:

Coronary artery disease
Heart failure
Pulmonary embolism
Cardiomyopathy
Hypertension
Stroke

There are many options available to treat or improve the symptoms of AFib. Your doctor may prescribe medications that can help in controlling the heart rate, reducing the risk of stroke and normalizing the rhythm of the heart. He or she may also recommend exercising and eating a healthy diet, as well as several lifestyle changes which can be incorporated into your daily routine.

A “Honey” of a Home Remedy

Posted on July 20, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Honey and cinnamon have become indispensable ingredients in so many ways, not only because of their delicious flavor, but also because of their numerous benefits.

The tasty combo has been used for thousands of years to add extra flavor to food, but if you have caught a summer cold and are coughing intensely, honey and cinnamon is a delicious, nutritious and effective all-natural cough syrup.

Ingredients:

One cup of honey

Three tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice

One teaspoon of cinnamon

1/4 cup of lukewarm water.

Slowly mix the lemon juice with the honey and then gradually add the warm water and then take one or two teaspoons of this homemade cough syrup before going to bed, to relieve the symptoms of cough without experiencing any side effects.

#MotivatedMondays

Posted on July 20, 2015 by Zuleika Benitez

According to the American Heart Association, 2200 Americans die of heart disease every single day. Help your heart get a boost and prevent becoming a part of this growing statistic- Check out this quick 10 minute workout for a healthy heart.