The Surprising Health and Beauty Benefits of The Avocado

Posted on October 29, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

The Avocado is a very healthy and unique fruit. It is abundant in healthy fats, nutrients and has numerous health and beauty benefits. Some of the nutrients found in this super fruit include, vitamins C, B6, K, Folate and Potassium.

Some of the benefits of the avocado include:

It is a great source of Oleic acid-this healthy fat reduces inflammation and lowers bad cholesterol
Monounsaturated fats in the avocado can improve your skin tone by maintaining good moisture levels, repairing damaged skin cells, reducing skin redness and irritation.
Avocados are good for weight loss. The body uses monounsaturated fats as slow burning energy than storing it as fat. This gives you a feeling of fullness and reduces your appetite
Vitamin B6 and folic acid controls homecysteine levels which are linked to an increased risk in heart disease.
It is high in fiber and antioxidants
Avocados are a great source of biotin which helps prevent dry and brittle nails and hair.

Not only are avocados delicious but they are good for you. Enjoy them in guacamole, salads, as a spread, on a sandwich or by itself.

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.

Getting Fit and Bicycle Riding Safety Tips

Posted on October 28, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

Riding a bicycle can be a fun and effective way to get fit. Cycling is beneficial for the cardiovascular system because it increases oxygen intake and stimulates the heart. Studies show that riding can increase energy levels by 20 percent and in one hour burn up to 488 calories when pedaling at 12 to 14 miles per hour.

Although a bicycle is an excellent fitness tool, it is also considered a vehicle. Therefore, the rules of the road must be obeyed and a bicycle should be operated safely to prevent injuries and accidents.

In a study conducted by Jamaica Hospital’s Trauma Division, over the past year from September 2013- September 2014 there has been over 500 cyclists and pedestrians struck in areas surrounding the hospital. Bicyclists face higher risks in crash-related injuries and deaths than drivers in a motor vehicle. Follow these basic riding tips to ensure your safety and reduce the risks:

Always ride in the same direction as traffic and do not weave in between other vehicles.
Obey traffic laws and signals.
Do not listen to music or speak on cell phones while riding.
Wear a proper fitting helmet.
Never pass another vehicle on the right.
Always keep your hands on the brakes.
Stay aware of dangerous road hazards such as potholes and broken glass.
Use hand signals to show motorist where you are going.

Bicycling is a great way to get fit; however, cyclists should continue to keep in mind that they share the same rules and regulations as others. Follow the rules of the road to reduce the risk of injuries and accidents.

The Dangers of Secondhand Smoke

Posted on October 13, 2014 by Xavia Malcolm

Secondhand smoke is a combination of side stream smoke-which comes from the end of a burning cigarette and mainstream smoke-which is exhaled by the smoker. It may seem harmless but the smoke that comes from the end of the cigarette is considered to be even more harmful than the smoke inhaled by the smoker; because there are no filters. Secondhand smoke is harmful to everyone; however, pregnant women, children and partners of people who smoke are the most vulnerable.

There are over 250 harmful chemicals that can be found in the smoke created by tobacco products. Some of these chemicals are carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, ammonia, arsenic, vinyl chloride and formaldehyde. The Environmental Protection Agency categorizes secondhand smoke as a Group A carcinogen; meaning that it can cause cancer in humans.

The more you are exposed to secondhand smoke, the higher your risk of developing diseases and suffering from the health effects. Respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, breathlessness and coughing can be triggered by secondhand smoke. Other harmful health effects include the increased risk of developing heart disease, respiratory disease and strokes.

Pregnant women who consistently breathe secondhand smoke may have miscarriages or give birth to low birth-weight and premature babies. For newborns exposure can escalate the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Children can experience increased occurrences of asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections.

Secondhand smoke is harmful, despite the level of exposure. Breathing in even a little smoke can be dangerous and the effects on your health can be immediate. There are several ways to reduce the risk of exposure to second hand smoke. You can ask members in your family not to smoke in your home, disallow smoking in your car and choose smoke- free restaurant and indoor places.

Home Remedies Separating Fact from Myth

Posted on September 22, 2014 by Michael Hinck

Age-old home remedies have been passed on for generations. Even in a modern, technologically advanced and scientific world, these timeless, home-made cures have remained and become common practice in the way minor ailments are treated.
Over the years, medical studies have been conducted to determine the validity in some of these home remedies.

Here are a few remedies in which myths have been dispelled and facts confirmed:
• Chicken Soup is good for a cold
Fact- Research published in the medical journal Chest in 2000, shows that chicken soup does have anti- inflammatory effects that clear stuffy noses and soothe sore throats. Hot fluids also aid in the movement of nasal mucus.
• Krazy Glue can be used to seal small wounds
Myth-It Is not advised to use Krazy Glue to seal small wounds. The United States Food and Drug Administration does not recommend the use of it for medicinal purposes. One may run the risk of infection or an allergic reaction.
• Honey helps in healing wounds
Fact-studies support the use of medical-grade honey as a healing agent in minor wound care. Honey possesses antibacterial properties. It has an obstructive effect on over 60 types of bacteria.
• Feed a cold, starve a fever
Myth-This is an old wives’ tale. In actuality when experiencing cold or flu symptoms the body needs all the nutrients of a proper diet. Eating foods that are high in anti-oxidants such as vitamin C, Beta- Carotene and vitamin E; helps build up the immune system. It is also very important to stay hydrated.
• Steam helps in the relief of sinus headaches
Fact-Inhaling steam relieves sinus pressure by opening up and flushing out nasal passages. Adding oils such as, eucalyptus, peppermint and chamomile can also help in soothing the mucus lining.
• Eating fish makes you smart
Fact-This is true for children up to age three or four. Fish such as salmon, Atlantic mackerel, sardines and Albacore tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). DHA is beneficial for brain development in infants for the first two years of life. If your child is allergic to seafood, alternatives to fish include walnuts and avocado.

While some home remedies are natural, they may cause adverse reactions if you are taking certain medications or have allergies. It is always best to consult a physician before using them. You can make an appointment to see a Family Medicine practitioner at Jamaica Hospital by calling 718 206 6942.