What to Do Next After Receiving a Dementia Diagnosis

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be devastating. Whether it is you are a loved one, several questions are raised after the diagnosis, namely “What do I do next?”  

After receiving a dementia diagnosis, it is important to be as proactive as possible. There are several steps you can take to help you or a loved one plan for the future, as well as help everyone involved feel that they are informed, supported, and less alone. Steps include: 

  1. Learn about and understand the specific dementia diagnosis, as it helps guide healthcare decisions, treatment options, and expectations for the future.

Dementia is not a specific disease, but an overall term that describes a group of symptoms such as memory loss and the loss of other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia is caused by physical changes in the brain.  

  • Different types of dementia include: 
  • Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease 
  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease 
  • Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease 
  • Frontotemporal Dementia 
  • Huntington’s Disease 
  • Korsakoff Syndrome 

There are many signs and symptoms of dementia. They include: 

    • Memory loss that disrupts daily life 
    • Challenges in planning or solving problems 
    • Difficulty completing familiar tasks 
    • Confusion with time and place 
    • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 
    • New problems with words in speaking or writing 
    • Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps 
    • Decreased or poor judgment 
    • Withdrawal from work or social activities 
    • Changes in mood and personality 
  1. Communicate with you or your loved one’s healthcare providers to discuss what can be expected and how to best manage symptoms.  
  2. Plan for the future by consulting with various financial and legal experts to discuss advance care directives, such as a living will and durable power of attorney, as they outline any wishes for future medical treatment and designate someone to make decisions on your or your loved one’s behalf if/when you are unable to. A financial adviser can help you or your loved one organize and manage any expenses that may relate to long-term care
  3. Communicate with family members and caregivers openly about your or your loved one’s diagnosis, any care preferences, and plans so that everyone is on the same page.  
  4. Maintain any and all social connections and participate in activities that encourage cognitive function. Maintaining a support network is important, as dealing with dementia can make you or a loved one feel isolated. 
  5. Ask your or your loved one’s healthcare provider about which treatments are available and recommended based on one’s specific dementia diagnosis, and ask about eligibility for clinical trials. 
  6. Start any of the recommended treatments or medications that may help manage dementia symptoms. Be sure to schedule regular appointments with your healthcare providers so they can monitor the condition and adjust care as needed. Monitor your symptoms and keep your healthcare providers up to date with them so they can offer any interventions that can help with any new symptoms that present themselves. 
  7. Remove any household hazards that may lead to falls or injuries. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, adults ages 65 and older living with dementia are at a 45.5% risk of getting injured or dying from falls, compared to 30.9% of people in the same age group who don’t have dementia. It is important to note that falls are the leading cause of death for that age group. 

A dementia diagnosis is a difficult time for any family that must experience it. It is important to make sure that you, your loved ones, and any caregivers are prepared for the challenges that may arise on this journey.  

If you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms of dementia, you can consult with a neurologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7246. 

 

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.

Maternal Health Awareness Day

January 23rd is observed as Maternal Health Awareness Day, a day that recognizes the importance of spreading awareness and reducing maternal mortality. 

Maternal mortality refers to deaths due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth. It is a major problem in the United States. The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rates among developed countries and is the only advanced country to have maternal mortality rates that have increased in recent decades. 

Black and indigenous women in the U.S. are particularly at risk, as their maternal mortality rates are two to three times as high as those of other women. What’s more, black women in the U.S. are four times more likely to die due to pregnancy-related complications compared to their white counterparts. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines pregnancy-related deaths as any deaths that occur during pregnancy or within one year of the end of pregnancy from pregnancy complications that affect the mental or physical health of a woman, her baby, or both.  

Pregnancy-related deaths may occur due to: 

  • The pregnancy causing a new medical or mental health problem 
  • The pregnancy starting a chain of events that result in death 
  • The pregnancy making an unrelated medical condition worse 

According to the CDC, an estimated 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable.  

Many social factors contribute to pregnancy-related deaths. Social factors are any nonmedical conditions, such as where women live, work, and spend their free time, that can affect their health. Social factors such as their income and access to high-quality care can affect a woman’s ability to manage conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes, that can increase maternal risk.  

The CDC recommends these tips for pregnant and expectant women, which can help prevent and treat severe pregnancy-related complications: 

  • Starting prenatal care early 
  • Seeing a healthcare provider throughout the pregnancy 
  • Attending all postpartum visits 

If you would like to learn more about maternal health, you can schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center. To learn more, please call (718) 291-3276. 

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.

Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Linked to Parkinson’s Disease?

A new study conducted by Oregon Health and Science University and the Portland Veterans Administration (VA) Health Care System has found that people who have untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can have an increased risk of eventually developing Parkinson’s disease. 

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that occurs when people repeatedly stop and start breathing while they sleep due to the throat muscles relaxing and blocking their airway.  

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the nervous system that worsens over time.  

The study analyzed the health records of 13,737,081 U.S. veterans collected by the Department of Veterans Affairs from 1999 to 2022. The average age of the participants in the study was 60.5 years, with 9.8% being women. 

1,552,505 participants of the study had obstructive sleep apnea. Six years after their original OSA diagnosis, there were 1.6 cases of Parkinson’s disease for every 1,000 individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, compared to those without it. 

What’s more, the study shows that because OSA causes repeated airflow blockages during sleep, it leads to low oxygen levels and briefly interrupted blood flow to the brain and blood vessels. It can also lead to ischemia-reperfusion, which occurs when blood flow is restored after a period of reduced blood supply, leading to cells becoming damaged instead of healing. When this occurs, it causes fragmented sleep and triggers the autonomic centers in the brain, making neurons and blood vessels vulnerable. Similarly, Parkinson’s disease causes neurons to slowly break down and die, affecting neurological function. 

People who are suffering from OSA can improve their sleep quality with early treatment using common treatments for sleep apnea, such as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask or the new Inspire device. Unlike the CPAP mask, the Inspire device works inside the body with a patient’s natural breathing process, using mild stimulation to open the airway during sleep, allowing oxygen to flow naturally. The patient uses a small handheld remote to turn Inspire on before bed and off when they wake up.  could help lower their risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. 

If you would like to get tested for sleep apnea, you can make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Sleep Center by calling 718-206-5916. 

To learn more about CPAP or Inspire at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please visit Jamaicahospital.org or call 718-206-7110 to make an appointment with an ENT doctor.   

If you would like to learn more about Parkinson’s disease, you can schedule an appointment with a neurologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001. 

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.

Tips to Help You Keep Your New Year’s Health Resolutions

Every New Year’s Eve, we ambitiously make resolutions that we intend to keep. Unfortunately, keeping those resolutions is easier said than done.  

For many of us, we set many long-term goals as a New Year’s resolution. Setting long-term goals, such as losing a certain amount of weight without a plan or outline of specific ways to accomplish that goal, often sets us up for failure. This is why experts recommend that we achieve long-term goals by making a plan and taking small incremental steps that help us change our behaviors over time. These behavioral modifications must be repeated for them to become routine. 

Here are some additional tips to help you stay on track with keeping your New Year’s resolution: 

  • Instead of stopping an old habit, try starting a new habit. Rather than stop eating candy, try to eat more fruits and vegetables. Starting a new habit can push an old habit aside, which may make it more likely that you will stick with your new routine 
  • Add another habit onto one of your current ones. For example, you can do stretches after brushing your teeth. Pairing a new habit with an old or current one can be an effective way to create a long-term lifestyle change 
  • Focus on the process of achieving your goal rather than focusing on the outcome. Fixating on the outcome can cause you to be discouraged when you have trouble accomplishing that goal 
  • Track your progress by using an app, journal, or calendar to help you monitor the progress you are making. Keeping data on your progress can be a positive reinforcement and help keep you accountable 
  • Plan ahead by considering any challenges you may face while trying to keep your resolution. For example, if you are trying to eat healthy, think about what you are going to buy at the grocery store or what you may order at a restaurant. If you are trying a new exercise routine, schedule when you are going to exercise so it doesn’t conflict with any other activities 
  • Give yourself grace when you make a mistake. Being negative and self-critical when you mess up may make you less likely to stick to your new habits. Be more compassionate with yourself and be as consistent as you can  

If you would like help keeping your New Year’s health resolutions, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001. 

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.

Thyroid Awareness Month

January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a month that observes the importance of raising awareness of thyroid disorders and how they affect the lives of millions of people around the world.  

The thyroid is a gland located in front of the neck. It is a part of the body’s endocrine system and produces hormones that play an important role in many of the body’s systems, such as cells and tissues, the heart, brain, liver, and kidneys.  

The hormones the thyroid produces include: 

  • Thyroxine (T4)- the primary hormone made and released by the thyroid. It is the hormone that the thyroid makes the most of; however, it doesn’t have much of an effect on the metabolism 
  • Triiodothyronine (T3)- the thyroid makes lesser amounts of this hormone, but it has a much bigger impact on the metabolism than T4 
  • Reverse triiodothyronine- the thyroid makes very small amounts of RT3. This hormone reverses the effects of T3 
  • Calcitonin- this hormone helps regulate the amount of calcium in the blood 

These hormones also affect several bodily functions, including: 

  • Blood pressure 
  • Body temperature 
  • Heart rate 
  • Metabolism 
  • Breathing 
  • Digestion 
  • Brain development 
  • Mental activity 
  • Skin and bone maintenance 
  • Fertility 

Four main conditions affect the thyroid, including: 

  • Hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid gland 
  • Hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland 
  • Goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland 
  • Thyroid cancer 

Different thyroid conditions have different symptoms. Symptoms depend on whether the thyroid is under- or over-producing hormones and can often be silent or present symptoms that are overlooked due to their subtlety.  

Symptoms that may signal a thyroid condition include: 

  • Slow or rapid heart rate 
  • Unexplained weight loss or weight gain 
  • Difficulty tolerating the cold or heat 
  • Depression (caused by hypothyroidism) or anxiety (caused by hyperthyroidism) 
  • Irregular menstrual periods 

When a healthcare provider wants to check the health of a person’s thyroid, they perform a blood test that measures the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). They will also check the levels of T4 and T3 in the blood. If the results of these tests come back and are abnormal, the healthcare provider may suggest an imaging test such as a thyroid scan or an ultrasound of the thyroid.  

There are several treatment options for thyroid conditions, depending on what they are and their severity. The three main treatment options for thyroid conditions include: 

  • Medication 
  • Surgery 
  • Radiation therapy and chemotherapy 

Thyroid conditions are common and can affect anyone at any age. However, some people face a higher risk if they: 

  • Have a family history of thyroid disease 
  • Have an autoimmune condition, such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus 
  • Take a medication that’s high in iodine 
  • Are older than 60, especially if you’re female 

Fortunately, there is a way for a person to keep their thyroid healthy. This can be done by getting enough iodine in their diet with foods that are fortified with iodine, such as cheese, cow milk, eggs, yogurt, saltwater fish, shellfish, seaweed, soy milk, and soy sauce. 

If you would like to get your thyroid checked or to receive more information about Jamaica Hospital’s endocrinology service, you can make an appointment by calling 718-206-7001. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

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 Importance of an Annual Physical Exam

A new year is upon us, and we are all looking for ways to improve our health. An important way to do so is to get an annual physical exam.

Getting a physical exam provides us with an opportunity to check our overall health and prevent any health issues from becoming more serious. It can also cultivate a relationship with a primary healthcare provider who can help:

· Manage current health issues

· Prevent illnesses

· Monitor the risk of chronic disease

· Identify illnesses that don’t have symptoms

· Monitor your weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and basic body chemistry

· Adjust your lifestyle to one that is suitable for your age

Even if you feel fine, it is a good idea to see your healthcare provider to ensure you are taking the right steps to maintain and improve your health.

If you would like to receive a physical exam, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

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.

13 Poses to Do Every Day for Increased Flexibility

When we exercise, we can sometimes focus more on gaining strength, endurance, lung capacity, and body composition. However, we can sometimes overlook gaining more flexibility.  

Flexibility training improves the range of motion at the joints, which can facilitate freer movement, help reduce pain and risk of injury, and generally make us more capable in our everyday lives. Yoga is an exercise that can help boost flexibility. 

Yoga is a holistic mind-body activity that involves moving through a series of body poses and breathing exercises that can improve strength, flexibility, balance, and relaxation.  

Here are 13 yoga poses you can do every day for increased flexibility: 

  1. Cat-cow pose 
  1. Low cobra pose 
  1. Reclined spinal twist 
  1. Standing crescent moon 
  1. Half lord of the fishes 
  1. Bound angle pose 
  1. Reclined pigeon pose 
  1. Wide-legged forward fold with chest expansion  
  1. Reclined hamstring stretch  
  1. Assisted low lunge 
  1. Downward-facing dog 
  1. Thread the needle 
  1. Reverse tabletop 

Maintaining our flexibility as we age is essential to our health. People who remain flexible have fewer difficulties with daily activities and experience an increased quality of life. An increased range of motion is associated with fewer injuries, decreased pain, and stronger muscles, which can lead to better performance. 

If you are interested in learning more about any of our integrative health services, events, or classes, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (718) 206-5675. 

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.

Dealing with Loss During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time filled with joy and happiness. But it can also be full of sadness and grief, especially when you are struggling with the loss of a loved one.  

It can be very challenging to deal with grief during the holiday season, as seasonal events and holiday traditions can serve as a reminder of what has been lost, which can magnify a person’s sense of loss and sorrow. The happiness of others can make those who are grieving feel isolated and alone.  

However, seasonal events and holiday traditions can also serve as comforting rituals that allow those who are grieving an opportunity to connect with family and friends, focus on cherished memories, and try to recapture their sense of joy.  

If you are mourning the loss of loved ones this holiday season, here are some ways to help cope with your grief: 

  • Do what feels right for you, as you are not obligated to participate in any activities that don’t feel doable. Create realistic expectations for yourself and others, but it is important to be gentle and kind to yourself. However, holiday activities could be a good distraction that brings joyful feelings and good memories.  
  • Accept whatever you are feeling. Everyone grieves and mourns differently. Some people may try to avoid the pain and sad feelings, while others may feel every emotion. Some people may feel bad if they aren’t up to enjoying the holiday, and others may feel guilty because they are feeling joyful. A person may cycle through these feelings throughout the season.  
  • Get support for your emotions and grief. Talking with family and friends about your emotions and mental health needs. It is important to be honest about how you would like to do things this year. If you would like to talk about those who have passed, then do so, and let others know that it is okay. If you are participating in a holiday activity, let people know that you may bow out quickly if it becomes too much for you, and if possible, have a friend there to support you.  
  • Put the focus on children in the family. Many of the activities we participate in during the holidays place special attention on children, and it may be helpful to focus on them during this difficult time. It is important to recognize that the choices you make in regard to how you get through the holidays may affect the children in the family. They may not understand why you don’t want to join family festivities if you withdraw. If you participate in activities that are important to them, you could allow yourself to feel their joy and excuse yourself when you have reached your limit. 
  • Sometimes, the anticipation of the holiday is worse than the actual holiday itself. Planning comforting activities ahead of time to give you something to look forward to, instead of building up the anxiety of the pain that the holiday could bring. It is important to make sure to include breaks for quiet grounding time and rest in your plans. An emotion like grief can drain your energy, so you may feel worn out more easily than usual. Add music, rest, meditation, prayer, rest, journaling, a walk, a comforting movie, and other downtime to your holiday activities.  
  • In moments of grief and loss, we can feel paralyzed by the intense emotions such as sadness, anger, or resentment, and sometimes relief can be found by giving to others. Focusing on others instead of yourself and taking action that makes a difference can help broaden our perspectives. Honor a loved one that you’ve lost by donating in their name to a charity or cause that they cherished, or buy something that symbolizes them or what you shared to donate to a family in need. You can also try volunteering to help people in a way that is related to what caused the pain you’re feeling. Some examples include: 
  • If you have lost someone to suicide, you can volunteer for a depression or suicide hotline 
  • If a hospital or nursing home took good care of your loved one, bring holiday gift baskets and cards for the staff 
  • If you were a caregiver for your loved one who has passed, you know how hard it is to do caregiving during the holidays. Consider supporting a caregiver you know with a gift, a meal, or some practical help 
  • It can be helpful to participate in holiday rituals that acknowledge and honor the memory of someone who has passed, especially if it relates directly to their interests. Some ideas include: 
  • Light candles 
  • Talk or write about the person on social media 
  • Donate children’s toys or books 
  • Dedicate a prayer or religious service to the loved one’s memory 
  • Plant a tree in memory of the deceased in your own yard or in a forest 
  • Make a card or write a holiday letter with the person’s picture 
  • It is important not to hesitate to ask for help or accept help and support when it is offered to you. Let others host, cook, or handle the organization of activities, so you don’t have to take on everything yourself. Others can help you with decorating, shopping, shipping packages or cards, wrapping gifts, driving you to any family gatherings and parties, or getting your home ready for visitors. 
  • Losing loved ones that you have celebrated with for a long time can make it feel like the yearly celebrations will never be the same again. In some ways, they won’t be the same, and accepting this will help you manage your expectations. It is important to remember that different isn’t always bad. If it is possible, embrace the difference and acknowledge that there can still be joy in your life. Starting new activities that don’t have specific memories tied to a loved one may make it easier. Activities that may create new memories could include: 
  • Holding a virtual family gathering 
  • Planning a family movie night 
  • Try a new recipe for the holiday menu 
  • Having a new meal delivered from a grocery store or restaurant 
  • Volunteer to serve meals at a shelter for people without homes 
  • If you feel that participating in holiday activities will be too much for you and you would like to withdraw, let your family and friends know before doing so. However, plan comforting alternative activities for yourself and let someone know what you will be doing. It is a good idea to make sure someone checks in with you regularly, especially on the actual holiday. Grieving is something that is very personal. No one can tell you how to grieve or how long it may take. Life without a loved one who has passed away will never be the same, but you will get through this. 

Losing a cherished loved one is always difficult. Celebrating birthdays, holidays, or any happy moments and milestones without a loved one who has passed away can put a damper on observing them. When participating in holiday activities and celebrations, remember the good times you shared with them. It is also important to note that there is no specific way to grieve because everyone grieves differently. There is also no timeline for healing. Take time for yourself when you need to, and ask for help and support when you need it.  

If you or a loved one is struggling with a loss, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.  

You can also call or text the 988 Lifeline to speak with a trained live agent. 

If you or a loved one needs the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment. 

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.

High Functioning Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in things once enjoyed.

Depression affects approximately eight percent of adults living in the United States each year.  Several of whom may experience debilitating symptoms that can affect their ability to keep up with the demands of day-to-day life.

While the symptoms of depression can present significant challenges for some individuals—affecting their work, relationships, and social lives—others may appear to cope successfully with their symptoms. The term “high-functioning depression” describes people who live with depression and seem to manage well on the outside, even though they are struggling with symptoms internally.

It’s important to note that high-functioning depression is not an official clinical diagnosis. Instead, the term emphasizes the experience of living with depression while still functioning or meeting the demands of everyday life.

The symptoms of high-functioning depression are generally similar to those of major depressive disorder; however, the intensity and frequency may vary, with symptoms sometimes considered mild or moderate. These symptoms can include:

  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Persistent sadness
  • Irritability
  • Loss of interest or pleasure
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Fatigue
  • Changes in appetite

Although the intensity or frequency of symptoms in individuals who seem high-functioning may not be debilitating, they should not be overlooked. It is crucial to seek help. There is no shame in reaching out to a mental health professional and building a support system.

Treatment for depression may include a combination of psychotherapy or talk therapy, medications, brain stimulation therapies, complementary medicine, or lifestyle modifications.

To schedule an appointment with a mental health provider at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575.

 

 

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.

Foods Rich In Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that can be found in various foods. It helps support more than 300 different chemical processes throughout the human body, such as: 

  • Muscle function 
  • Regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels 
  • Promoting energy production 
  • Nerve function and bone health 
  • Mental health 

When eating foods containing magnesium, experts recommend consuming between 310 and 420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day, depending on age and sex: 

  • Babies 6 months and younger: 30 mg 
  • 7 to 12 months: 75 mg 
  • 1 to 3 years old: 80 mg 
  • 4 to 8 years: 130 mg 
  • 9 to 13 years 240 mg 
  • 14 to 18 years (male): 410 mg 
  • 14 to 18 years (female): 360 mg 
  • 19 to 30 years (male): 400 mg 
  • 19 to 30 years (female): 310 mg 
  • 31 and older male: 420 mg 
  • 31 and older female: 320 mg 

Pregnant women should get an additional 40 mg of magnesium per day. Some, but not all, prenatal vitamins include magnesium.  

Many foods contain magnesium, including: 

  • Nuts and seeds: 
    • Roasted almonds- 1oz = 80 mg of magnesium 
    • Roasted cashews- 1oz = 72 mg of magnesium 
    • Whole flaxseeds- 1 Tbsp = 40 mg of magnesium 
    • Dry roasted peanuts- 1 oz = 49 mg of magnesium 
    • Hulled and roasted pumpkin seeds- 1 oz = 15 mg of magnesium 
    • Chia seeds- 1oz = 111 mg magnesium 
  • Legumes: 
    • Boiled black beans- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium 
    • Cooked and prepared edamame- ½ cup = 50 mg of magnesium 
    • Cooked lima beans- ½ cup = 40 mg of magnesium 
  • Fiber-rich whole grains: 
    • Cooked quinoa- ½ cup = 60 mg of magnesium 
    • Plain, unfrosted shredded wheat- 1 cup = 56 mg of magnesium 
  • Low-fat dairy products: 
    • Nonfat milk- 1 cup = 24 to 27 mg of magnesium 
    • Plain low-fat yogurt- 8oz = 42 mg of magnesium 
  • Greens: 
    • Cooked spinach- ½ cup = 78 mg of magnesium 
    • Cooked Swiss chard- ½ cup = 75 mg of magnesium 
    • Collard greens- ½ cup = 25 mg of magnesium 
  • Fruit: 
    • One whole avocado = 58 mg of magnesium  
    • One medium banana = 32 mg of magnesium 
    • One small papaya = 33 mg of magnesium 
    • Blackberries- 1 cup = 29 mg of magnesium 
  • Vegetables: 
    • Green peas- ½ cup = 31 mg of magnesium 
    • Sweet corn- ½ cup = 27 mg of magnesium 
    • One medium potato with skin on = 48 mg of magnesium 
  • Dark chocolate that is 70%-85% cocoa- 1oz = 64 mg of magnesium 
  • 2 liters of water- up to 240 mg of magnesium 

If you have a magnesium deficiency, a healthcare provider may suggest magnesium supplements. When magnesium is combined with other substances, it can help bring out specific benefits, including: 

  • Magnesium glycinate: helps promote sleep 
  • Magnesium citrate: helps digestion 
  • Magnesium oxide: an antacid and aid to relieve migraines 
  • Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt): used as a muscle relaxant 

Eating a meal that contains magnesium-rich foods is the foundation of a healthy diet and is beneficial for your overall health.  

It is important to note that you should first speak with your doctor about making any changes to your diet and before taking any new supplements. To consult a physician about the best ways to get your daily amount of magnesium, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001. 

 

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.