OBESITY OR GENETICS

Posted on October 5, 2016 by Joann Ariola

“How does she eat so much and not gain any weight?”

It’s a question that has left many puzzled and quite frustrated. The conversation about weight, however, is a longstanding one. Today, especially, weight gain and weight loss remain relevant discussions, as the United States faces an obesity epidemic.

Though several health initiatives to help fight obesity have been implemented over the past few years, it is important to first understand what factors contribute to obesity. According to a National Institutes of Health funded study conducted by UCLA, not only does behavior and environment affect obesity, but genetic factors can also play a significant role in causing obesity.

How our genes actually influence obesity varies. As explained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), genes give the body instruction for responding to changes in its environment. Some research has linked genes to metabolism, pointing out that genetics affects how one’s body responds to high-fat diets. Genes can either cause an increased tendency to store fat or a diminished capacity to use dietary fats as fuel. Other research has suggested that genes influence behaviors, such as overeating and being sedentary.

The conversation about obesity can now change since research has shown that body weight is hereditary and that genetic disposition affects weight. In all efforts to fight obesity, living environments where high calorie foods are prevalent and physical activity is limited should be looked at more closely.

We understand that the road to healthier choices isn’t easy to travel, especially alone. Here at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center our outpatient registered Dietitians assist patients to grow their knowledge about nutrition, wellness and healthy eating. To schedule an appointment the outpatient nutrition services department can be reached directly at.

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.

#Wellness Wednesday

Posted on September 28, 2016 by Joann Ariola

Leonardo da Vinci, although best known as a painter, happend to be fascinated by science. Like any modern day scientist, he used observations, common-sense reasoning and research to find answers to satisfy the many questions he had regarding the health of the human body, mind and soul.

He cataloged his findings in his “Notebooks.” We are sharing one of his thoughts here and wish you a great #wellnesswednesday

“Vitality and beauty are gifts of Nature for those who live according to its laws.” ~ Leonardo da Vinci

BACKPACK SAFETY TIPS

Posted on September 21, 2016 by Joann Ariola

With school in full swing, you may have noticed that your children are carrying, in some cases, more than their body weight in books and supplies affiliated with their school work. Below are some tips on how to save your childs back from their heavy backpack-

Are You Parenting an Anxious Child?

Posted on September 13, 2016 by Joann Ariola

Similar to adults, children can feel worried and anxious. In fact, feeling anxious about certain things at different stages of their growth is normal. However, if anxiety and worry are chronic, there is a chance that a serious problem is developing.

Early on, younger children may have separation anxiety from their parents. They may become clingy, have difficulty sleeping, wake during the night, start wetting the bed or have nightmares. These behaviors are typically temporary and should begin to subside around age two or three. If they persist as your child gets older, you may want to monitor their behavior for signs that are indicative of an anxiety disorder.

Some signs to look out for are:

lack the confidence to try new things or seem unable to face simple, everyday challenges

find it hard to concentrate
have problems with sleeping or eating
are prone to angry outbursts
have negative thoughts going round and round their head, or keep thinking that bad things are going to happen
start avoiding everyday activities, such as seeing friends, going out in public or attending school

There are many ways to help your child through these worrisome times. Work with your child to recognize what “triggers” their anxiety and urge them to ask for help when the feel unsure. Try sticking to a regular routine and suggest reading books on the topic with your children. Additionally, if you know a change is coming such as a new home, talk to your child and be clear on what they should expect.

Most importantly, don’t try to shield your child from situations, rather encourage your child to find ways to manage their anxiety. Using simple relaxation techniques such as taking slow breaths can really help them navigate an episode.

If you have tried these methods and your child is still anxious, you can make an appointment with a trained mental health professional at the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center‘s Mental Health Center. Call 718-206-7071 for an appointment.

Diabetes and Loss of Vision

Posted on September 7, 2016 by Joann Ariola

Diabetic eye disease is comprised of a number of eye conditions one of which is diabetic retinopathy.

All forms of diabetic eye disease have the potential to cause vision loss or blindness, but diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among diabetics and often goes undetected until vision loss occurs.

If you are a diabetic who has chronically high or uncontrolled blood sugar, you are at risk of damaging the tiny blood vessels in the retina which can lead to diabetic retinopathy. The disease causes blood vessels in the retina to leak fluid or bleed causing a distortion in vision.

The retina detects light and converts it to signals sent through the optic nerve to the brain. Diabetic retinopathy can cause blood vessels in the retina to leak fluid or bleed, causing a distortion in vision.

Diabetic retinopathy may progress through four stages:

Mild non-proliferative retinopathy. Small areas of balloon-like swelling in the retina’s tiny blood vessels, called micro-aneurysms, occur at this earliest stage of the disease. These micro-aneurysms may leak fluid into the retina.
Moderate non-proliferative retinopathy. As the disease progresses, blood vessels that nourish the retina may swell and distort. They may also lose their ability to transport blood.
Severe non-proliferative retinopathy. Many more blood vessels are blocked, depriving blood supply to areas of the retina. These areas secrete growth factors that signal the retina to grow new blood vessels.
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). At this advanced stage, growth factors secreted by the retina trigger the proliferation of new blood vessels, which grow along the inside surface of the retina and into the vitreous gel, the fluid that fills the eye. The new blood vessels are fragile, which makes them more likely to leak and bleed. Accompanying scar tissue can contract and cause retinal detachment—the pulling away of the retina from underlying tissue, like wallpaper peeling away from a wall. Retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.

Some ways to delay diabetic retinopathy and vision loss are:

Controlling your diabetes – take medications as prescribed, maintaining a recommended level of physical activity and a healthy diet.
Eye Exam – because diabetic retinopathy often goes unnoticed people with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.

Vision lost to diabetic retinopathy is sometimes irreversible. However, early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of blindness by 95 percent. To make an appointment at the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Ophthalmology call, 718-206-5900.

Babyfat or Obesity?

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Joann Ariola

In many cases efforts to curb childhood obesity are aimed at children who are school-aged. However, new research suggests that interventions directed towards this group may be too late.

The most recent evidence indicates that pivotal times to introduce preventative efforts in your child’s life are during infancy and the toddler years.

According to experts, there are several measures you can take to prevent obesity and keep your baby at a healthy weight.

The Mayo Clinic recommends:

Monitor your weight gain during pregnancy.Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can increase a baby’s birth weight. Research suggests that as birth weight increases, so does the risk of childhood obesity.
Breast-feed.Some research suggests that breast-feeding reduces the risk of childhood obesity.
Limit sugar-sweetened drinks.Juice isn’t a necessary part of a baby’s diet. As you start introducing solid foods, consider offering nutritious fruits and vegetables instead.
Experiment with ways to soothe your baby.Don’t automatically turn to breast milk or formula to quiet your baby’s cries. Sometimes a new position, a calmer environment or a gentle touch is all that’s needed.
Limit media use.The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than age 2. The more TV your child watches, the greater his or her risk is of becoming overweight.

It is important to keep in mind that your child needs a diet that is high in healthy fats to foster growth during infancy and caloric restrictions aimed at reducing weight is not recommended for babies under the age of two. It is highly suggested that you speak to your doctor about age-appropriate dietary guidelines before implementing any changes.

If you feel that you child may be overweight or you would like more information about childhood obesity, please contact Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-206-7001 to make an appointment.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Posted on August 24, 2016 by Joann Ariola

For a healthy and hearty salad, try this black bean and corn salad recipe from the Food Network. Let us know how you like it!

Not Your Mama’s Choco Chip Cookies!

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Joann Ariola

If you love chocolate chip cookies and you are breastfeeding, you may want to try these special Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies. They may help you increase your breast milk supply and please your taste buds with a satisfying snack!

To read more, go to –

The Benefit of the Power Nap

Posted on August 10, 2016 by Joann Ariola

An action that previously would have been grounds for termination in many work places is now being considered for its health and performance benefits. Several companies are now acknowledging the benefits gained from a short nap during the workday, which include increased alertness, enhanced brainpower, and fewer sick days.

Although it is widely recommended that adults sleep for at least eight hours every night, research has shown that most individuals suffer from broken sleep and fail to get a good night’s rest. For these individuals, a short nap during office hours may help. A quick 15 to 20 minute power nap can provide the boost needed to effectively complete your workday.

Believers in this philosophy feel that a well-rested employee is a pleasant employee, noting that if you’re sleep deprived, you’re going to be moody and less productive. Several progressive companies are now seeking to reap the benefits of napping by offering perks such as designated nap or “renewal rooms” to their employees. Some companies simply encourage or allow employees to nap at their desks. The average time recommended for a healthy nap is 10 to 30 minutes. The longer the nap is, the more likely the chances of waking up groggy.

In addition to enhancing performance, studies indicate people who nap can also receive advantages that improve their overall health such as lower blood pressure, a boost to the immune system, a decrease in the risk of developing heart disease and a reduction in stress levels.

Napping offers various benefits for your health. However, receiving adequate sleep at night is just as important. If you are experiencing sleep deprivation, please contact your physician or sleep professional. To schedule an appointment at The Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Sleep Center, call 718-206-5916.

Napping -Not Just for Kids

Posted on August 2, 2016 by Joann Ariola

An office protocol, that normally would have been grounds for termination, is now being considered for its many benefits. Several companies are now acknowledging the health benefits of a short nap during the workday, which include increased alertness, enhanced brainpower, and fewer sick days.
It is recommended that adults sleep for at least eight hours every night, however, research has shown that most individuals suffer from broken sleep and fail to get a good night’s rest. For these individuals, a short nap can help. A quick 15 to 20 minute power nap can provide the boost needed to effectively complete your workday.

There are several progressive companies, such as British Airways, Nike, Pizza Hut and Google, who are now seeking to reap these benefits. These companies have created designated nap rooms or “renewal rooms” for their employees, allowed their employees to bring a nap mat for the office, or simply encouraged their employees to sleep at their desk.

Some employers are now encouraging napping for the wellness of their employees. People who take daily 30-minute naps are 37 percent less likely to die from heart disease than those who don’t nap, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2007. Naps can also boost the immune system—theoretically leading to fewer sick days—and propel employees into their most alert, energetic, and creative states, say nap advocates. Believers in this protocol feel that a well-rested employee is a pleasant employee, noting that if you’re sleep deprived, you’re going to be moody.

Napping Further Explained
Naps can be broken down into four categories:

Planned napping, also known as preemptive napping, involves taking a nap before you get sleepy. It is a good thing to do if you know you’re going to have a late night.
Emergency napping is exactly as it sounds— taking a nap when you’re so sleepy that you can’t properly engage in your current activity.
Habitual napping is the practice of taking a nap at the same time every day.
Appetitive napping is the act of napping strictly for enjoyment.

As noted, napping increases alertness, learning capacity, memory and performance— and we have known this now for several decades. Naps can also reduce stress, as well as lower blood pressure, which is important for our overall health. So, with the research and results on “power napping,” it is safe to say that a well-rested employee is a more productive employee.