Healthy Living 02-10-16

AN ANTON MEDIA GROUP SPECIAL

HealthyLiving ealthy FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

February Is

Heart Health Month INSIDE Children’s Dental Month

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

South Nassau presents: TRUTH IN MEDICINE

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

February Is Heart Health Month

BY JESSICA DIMEO

factor for heart disease and stroke.

For most women, a well-woman visit has no additional costs because of the Affordable Care Act, but not for all, so check your insurance plan for preventive services coverage before scheduling your visit.

Visit www.heart.org/longisland for more information.

SPECIALSECTIONS@ANTONMEDIAGROUP.COM

The American Heart Association wants to help everyone live longer, healthier lives so they can enjoy all of life’s precious moments. And we know that starts with taking care of your health. American Heart Month, a federally designated event, is a great way to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and encourage them to get their families, friends and communities involved. Together, we can build a culture of health where making the healthy choice is the easy choice.

Why? Because life is why.

To urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases, since 1963 Congress has required the president to proclaim February “American Heart Month.”

While American Heart Month is a federally designated month in the United States, it’s important to realize that cardiovascular disease knows no borders. Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, remains the leading global cause of death with more than 17.3 million deaths each year.

That number is expected to rise to more than 23.6 million by 2030.

The American Heart Association urges all Americans to learn the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke and call 9-1-1 immediately if symptoms occur, become trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and support the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in their communities.

There are many things state and local government officials can do to reduce the number of deaths from cardiovascular disease right here on Long Island. Whether it’s passing CPR legislation or placing more AEDs in communities, elected officials need to put the health of all New Yorkers first and pass aggressive public policies that can save thousands of lives each year.

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, yet only one in five American women believes heart disease is her greatest health threat. With the right information, education and care, heart disease in women can be treated, prevented and even ended.

The American Heart Association urges all women to schedule a well-woman visit and invest an hour in your life to save the rest.

A well-woman visit is a scheduled prevention check-up to

review a woman’s overall health so her doctor can measure blood pressure, check cholesterol and look for signs of heart disease, stroke and other illnesses. The visit can be scheduled with a primary care physician, nurse-practitioner

or an obstetrician gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Family history can be a significant—and often unknown—risk

American Heart Association “Go Red For Women” Luncheon

It’s that time of year again. Men and women from luncheon will again feature educational breakout sesacross Long Island will be getting all of their red sions presented by recognized and credentialed health outfits and accessories ready for the American Heart care professionals, providing women with information, Association’s 15th Annual Long Island Go Red For resources and hope to take action and live a longer, Women Luncheon. Heart disease and stroke are the stronger life.

No. 1 and No. 5 killers of Long Island women. For more This year’s luncheon will honor Linda Ressa, sales than a decade, women have been fighting heart disease manager, new construction specialist, Wells Fargo Home individually Mortgage and and together as Community part of the Go Honoree-Premier Red For Women Cardiology. The movement. honorees are Cardiovascular committed to diseases cause one raising support in three women’s and creating deaths each year, awareness about killing approxiheart disease and mately one woman stroke especially, every minute. as it pertains to Since 1984, women. Michelle more women than Schmitt, partner The 2016 Long Island Go Red For Women committee men have died in the Real each year from Estate Group heart disease and stroke. An estimated 43 million women at Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP. is chair of the in the U.S. are affected by cardiovascular diseases. When luncheon. Leanna Karlson, co-host of the Morning Show you get involved in supporting Go Red For Women by with Steve & Leeana on K98.3 will emcee the event.

The American Heart Association Go Red For advocating, fundraising and sharing your story, more Women Luncheon is attended by both women and lives are saved. The luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 11, at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, sponsored men from business, health, education, local and state government. Take charge of your cardiovasby Macy’s and Northwell Health. cular health. Visit www.longislandgoredluncheon.

The luncheon combines an elegant luncheon ahaevents.org or call 516-962-0805 for sponsorship, reception, silent auction, networking opportunities tickets and reservations. and moving Long Island female survivor stories. The

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

SIMPLY GLUTEN FREE CAROL KICINSKI

Make Your Morning Fun With Healthy ‘Cupcakes’ For Breakfast

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There are times when I can think of nothing better to eat for breakfast than a gluten-free cupcake. After all, we eat muffins for breakfast all the time and a muffin is really just an ugly cupcake, right? I am sure if you ask any 8-year-old, they will agree with me wholeheartedly!

But there is a down side to having a “normal” cupcake for breakfast. The typical cupcake is filled with sugar, refined flours and starch, and often “bad fat,” and despite that feeling of euphoria that comes from consuming all of that, the price will be paid later on when the crash comes. If I do indulge in a cupcake for breakfast, I quickly become overtaken with mental fog and am ready for a nap by midmorning. Not a productive start to the day and certainly no way to send the kiddos off to school.

This recipe is really a muffin recipe that can look like a cupcake if you choose. (I may add that serving a kid something healthy that looks like it’s not increases your chances of getting them to eat it by about 10 fold). It is packed with fiber, low in fat, dairy-free, includes vegetables and is refined sugar-free.

The fiber (and whole grain goodness) comes from a combination of brown rice flour and coconut flour.

There is a bit of tapioca starch mixed in to lighten them up but less than a teaspoon and a half per muffin.

Carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals and are actually a fat-burning food.

The sweetness for these muffins comes in some usual sugar replacement ways such as maple syrup and coconut sugar and one unusual way—freeze dried pineapple. Look for a brand that is not coated with sugar, does not contain nitrates, and has minimal ingredients—some contain just pineapple and nothing else, which is ideal.

I made a little dairy-free “cream cheese” maple topping that can go on the muffin (making it look like a cupcake) or used as a spread, like butter—but better. If dairy is not an issue for you or your family, low fat cream cheese is a good, low fat substitute.

Both the muffins and topping can be made the day before so you

SIMPLY GLUTEN FREE Carol Kicinski

can grab and go.

Gluten Free Carrot Pineapple Muffins Makes 12 For the muffins: 1 cup superfine brown rice flour ⅓ cup coconut flour ⅓ cup tapioca starch 2 teaspoons baking powder ¾ teaspoon kosher or fine sea salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 large eggs 1 cup coconut sugar ½ cup grapeseed (or other neutral tasting) oil ½ cup low fat coconut milk (or other dairy-free milk) 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 ½ cups grated carrots (from approximately ¾ pound) 1 (1.5-ounce) packet freeze dried pineapple For the topping: 8 ounces dairy-free cream cheese (or low fat cream cheese), at room temperature 4 tablespoons maple syrup ¼ teaspoon kosher or fine sea salt Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Preheat oven to 375 F. Sift the brown rice flour and coconut flour into a large mixing bowl; add the tapioca starch, baking powder, ¾ teaspoon salt, and the cinnamon.

Whisk to combine.

In another mixing bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Add the coconut sugar, grapeseed oil, coconut milk, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup and whisk to combine.

Combine the grated carrots with the pineapple in a bowl, add about ¼ cup of the flour blend, and toss to coat.

Add the liquid ingredients to the

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

They’re muffins, but with a fun topping to make them into a healthier version of a cupcake—perfect for a special breakfast or on-the-go snack.

flour mixture, whisk to combine, then add the carrot/pineapple mixture and fold in.

Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup to the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes then remove to a wire rack to finish cooling.

With a handheld mixer, beat the cream cheese substitute with the 4 tablespoons maple syrup and salt until smooth. Refrigerate until serving.

Either spread the topping on the muffins or serve the topping on the side.

Can be made 1-2 days ahead. Store the topping in the refrigerator and muffins in an airtight bag at room temperature.

Creative Cups Entries Through July 15

Artists Eliz Alahverdian (left) and Dale Flashner with their Creative Cup from 2015.

Get out your needle and thread, glue gun, fabric, beads, and paint.

Creative Cups, the popular, life-affirming fund raising event of the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, is back.

This is the fifth time that Creative Cups has happened on Long Island where every other year artists, breast cancer survivors, their friends and family members and others have used originality and creativity to transform ordinary bras into works of art. All are invited to participate by creating an

“art bra” or becoming a sponsor.

Submitted creations must be received by July 15, to be included in the auction/gala (to be held in March 2017 at Adelphi University in Garden City). Those wishing to create a bra are encouraged to sign up early, as entrants will be limited to 200.

Creative Cups celebrates the lives of those living with breast cancer and those we have lost to this terrible disease.

Visit creativecups.adelphi.edu or call 800-877-8077 for guidelines and registration.

You put your heart into everything Let’s keep it beating strong You see them everywhere you look. You’re one of them.

A woman who does so much to take care of the people you love.

But who takes care of you? We do.

Heart disease kills more women in this country than anything else.

That’s why we care so much about working together to keep your heart healthy. There are simple things you can do every day to help lower your risk of heart problems—we’ll help you. Our Women’s Heart Health Program gives you the most comprehensive care possible for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

FEBRUARY IS CHILDREN’S DENTAL MONTH

The Tooth Fairy Gets A Modern Makeover

BY JENNIFER FAUCI

JFAUCI@ANTONMEDIAGROUP.COM

When Manhasset resident Ingrid Bencosme’s daughter’s tooth was loose, the little girl immediately wanted to know about the tooth fairy. That’s when Bencosme, an NYU graduate and former teacher, came up with Teeth Fairies: A Baby Teeth Tradition.

“I was inspired when my daughter got her first loose tooth. I wanted to do something fun and memorable with her, like some kind of game,” said Bencosme, who was surprised when she could not find anything on the market geared towards the Tooth Fairy. “It started as a poem and then I added a lot of details to it.

My daughter loved it.”

Now a stay-at-home mom of three

kids with one on the way, Bencosme spends her time focusing on a talent that she found comes naturally to her.

“I had always hoped to write, as did my family; they hoped I would write a book, but I never had an idea that I felt strongly enough about that I would take it all the way to the top,” said Bencosme, who added that Teeth Fairies is a dream come true.

Like any parent, Bencosme had to nag her kids to brush their teeth and make good choices in the foods that they eat. She discovered that having a book and a doll as a visual

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aid was a useful tool that was always helpful to her

as a teacher.

“Using both a book and a doll keeps kids engaged about listening, so I knew it was a winning combination,” said Bencosme.

“The ‘Elf on the Shelf’ has been the catalyst for having a book and a doll trend. I always wanted to have the most impact with my daughter and I knew that combination would be the trick. It also gets her imagination going.”

The book is about not one, but several tooth fairies in training, called “teeth fairies.” When a child’s tooth falls out, these teeth fairies are on the job, collecting teeth and making sure each child is abiding by the rules of good oral hygiene.

They then report their findings to the Tooth Fairy Boss each night.

As a writer, Bencosme sheds light on the Tooth Fairy. But as a mom, she’s all about answering her kids’ questions.

“The Tooth Fairy has so many mysteries for children. I wanted something tangible that my daughter could relate to and get comfort from because she is always asking me questions,” said Bencosme of Teeth Fairies, that has now motivated her daughter to take care of her dental health. “I think that being a mom and teacher definitely helps in all of this. My children inspire me tremendously and I am always trying to find fun, innovative ways for them to go through milestones and those stages.”

To make the story more modern and representative of every child, Bencosme makes each of the fairies a

different ethnicity, both male and female. This idea, she hopes, will enable her to turn the book into a series and make Teeth Fairies something that all children can relate to.

Bencosme chose to self-publish her book,and built the Teeth Fairies company from the ground up. It was the research about self-publishing and obtaining information on dental hygiene that was most challenging for her.

“This was not something that I knew; I had to learn a lot along the way,” she said. “When you have an idea that you feel strongly about and you believe it helps others get over those hurdles in life, go for it.”

She was fortunate enough to gain the attention of several pediatric dentists as well, including Dr. Ruben of Little Smiles of Port Washington Pediatric Dentistry.

“A lot of dentists want to contribute and we have teamed up with a charity called ‘Communities in Schools,’ which is the nation’s largest dropout prevention organization that helps kids stay in school and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” said Bencosme. “A portion of our profit from the books and doll sales goes towards that important cause.”

As a Latina, Bencosme has definite plans to turn Teeth Fairies into a bilingual publication.

“Bringing a Spanish version and a male version of the fairy to kids, that’s my next project,” she said.

“There are just so many different cultures that celebrate the Tooth Fairy. El Ratone Perres, for example, is a mouse who collects teeth. That is what Latin children believe in.”

The Teeth Fairies book and doll set retails for $49.99 and is available to purchase at www.teethfairies.com.

It is also available on Amazon and at Nordstrom.

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

Could You Be Ruining Your Children’s Dental Health?

BY TONI TANTLINGER

SPECIALSECTIONS@ANTONMEDIAGROUP.COM

As hard as parents try to set the right examples, teach the right lessons and reinforce the right habits to their children, we all manage to, at some point, mess up along the way.

While some things in life are complicated and offering the proper parenting can be tricky, imparting the right dental habits shouldn’t be. But Dr. Peter Vanstrom—a leading authority in dentistry today—says a tradition of bad habits continues to unnecessarily plague many households.

“For example, many people still believe that hard-bristled toothbrushes are the way to go—rigorous brushing is a good method for getting the mouth reliably clean, but that’s wrong,” he said. “Today, we’re seeing more and more young people in their 20s and 30s with receding gums and other problems that could be avoided.”

Vanstrom, a dental consultant for CNN medical as well as a member of the editorial board for WebMD, shared ways for parents to set a good example for their children’s lasting dental health.

Ditch hard-bristled toothbrushes

is the way to go in a toothbrush. That can be accomplished by using a much higher count of soft bristles, as found in products such as Curaprox (www. curaprox.com).

“With this kind of brush, you can actually improve gum health by gently massaging them, which stimulates blood flow to the area,” Vanstrom said. “I’m seeing more patients suffer from gum recession and disease at a younger age, including some in their 30s and 20s. That’s why it’s important to implement good habits when kids are young.”

Don’t be someone who takes out their aggressions on your teeth while brushing—especially if you’re an older person. Over time, forceful brushing with hard bristles can accelerate gum recession, which may increase sensitivity. The soft-but-firm

THE AMSTERDAM LIFESTYLE IS

Avoid a negative stigma toward oral hygiene

“Another bad legacy parents sometimes impart to their children is to put a stigma on brushing,” he said. “In many homes brushing is considered a chore, probably because parents see it that way.”

An easy way to take the work out

of oral hygiene is to have easy-to-use products that feel good. Fun products that are visually stimulating are good for smaller children, who are usually more prone to making a game out of brushing and flossing time. There are other products on the market that make flossing easier.

Be mindful of the development of bad habits

For many, especially children, it’s easy to develop bad oral habits—thumb-sucking, nail-biting, straw-chewing, ice-crunching and teeth-grinding, to name some. And, because they’re not as strong as adults, children may be prone to using their teeth to open plastic bags and such. Of course, the habits of our childhood often stay with us in adulthood, so lead first by example, and make sure your child doesn’t pick up these habits on their own or through someone else.

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

Alternative Medicines On The Rise

The use of alternative medicines for the treatment of systemic disease continues to rise in the United States.

There are many different types of alternative medicines including homeopathic and naturopathic therapies, mind-body interventions, herbs and dietary supplements, manipulative and body-based methods and energy therapies. Most of these therapies, when effective, provide short-term relief and require multiple sessions or frequent treatments. These therapies certainly have value and should be used when they help and when they do no harm. The most common type of alternative therapy used in the United States is herbal and dietary supplements, including vitamins, with more than one-third of the population using some type of supplement.

In the United States, unlike other areas of the world, these dietary supplements are not subject to the same regulatory policies that are in place for pharmaceutically manufactured therapies. Therefore, safety is paramount to their use. After absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, the supplement or its metabolite enters the bloodstream where they pass through the liver. Liver toxicity may be the hallmark toxicity of these treatments.

THE SPECIALIST David Bernstein, MD

Having said that, it is important to note that 99 percent of these products are safe. There are, however, certain ingredients that are known to cause liver injury. In addition, there can be dietary supplement—drug interactions that either increase or decrease the serum concentration of prescription drugs that can lead to enhanced toxicity of the prescription drug or decreased medication effectiveness.

For example, certain Chinese herbs, garlic, gingko and tamarind can interact with anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding. Licorice can interact with the diuretic spironolactone and make the spironolactone less effective.

Black cohosh, which is used to treat menopause or rheumatism, camphor oil, which is used to treat cough and rheumatism, chaparral leaf, which is used as a tea to treat a variety of

infectious diseases, germander which is used as a weight loss agent, Ju Bu Huan which is used as a sleeping aid, kava which is used as an antidepressant, and even mistletoe which is used to treat such conditions as arthritis, hypertension and diarrhea can cause significant liver hepatotoxicity and even liver failure. Toxicity can occur in anyone taking these products but people with underlying liver disease are at even greater risk.

There is a public perception that these dietary supplements are safe and that therefore their use does not need to be reported to their physician or health care provider. The rising

use of herbal therapies has been accompanied by a rising reported incidence of liver toxicity. The take home message should be that despite the overwhelming safety of these products, people should read the ingredient panel carefully for known liver toxins and consult their health care provider before taking something new, especially if underlying liver disease, including fatty liver, is present.

David Bernstein, MD, is chief of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

Certain Chinese herbs, garlic, gingko and tamarind can interact with anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding.

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Cold Weather Safety For Seniors

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

SPECIALSECTIONS@ANTONMEDIAGROUP.COM

When winter’s beauty turns more beastly with arctic winds, mounds of snow and bone-chilling temperatures, the season’s harsh side can prove especially dangerous for senior adults. Even older snowbirds escaping to warmer climates still can encounter dips in the thermometer, dampening rains and icy navigation.

“Colder weather is not particularly kind to seniors,” said Gregg Balbera, president of Right at Home Nassau Suffolk. “Slick sidewalks lead to falls; colds and the flu escalate; and depression looms because of indoor confinement and less social interaction. To counter the wintertime risks for older adults, basic planning and prevention can make the cold weather manageable and actually enjoyable.”

To help families ensure their seniors stay warm and safe during winter months, Balbera recommends the following precautions:

Seniors with a weakened immune system are more vulnerable to catching colds and the flu or more severe illnesses including pneumonia. Older adults should consult with their doctor about seasonal and year-round immunizations that are best for their individual overall health.

Consume a balanced diet

Individuals who remain indoors more during winter find it tempting to eat starchy convenience foods and skip fresh fruits and vegetables.

Adding vegetables to soups and fruits

to smoothies is an easy way to add vitamin-enriched foods to a senior’s diet.

With less natural sunlight during winter to boost a body’s vitamin D level, eating vitamin-D fortified foods including grains, milk and seafood can help.

Keep well-hydrated

Although the elderly may not feel as thirsty in cooler weather, drinking six to eight glasses of liquid a day is still advised. Hot tea, apple cider and cocoa are fun additions to a wintertime beverage list, but stay mindful of the extra sugar and calories.

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Ward off isolation and depression

Harsh weather invites less social interaction, and for many seniors, can put a damper on mental health. To prevent loneliness and the winter blues in the elderly, schedule regular outings, personal visits, phone calls and social networking. Staying connected with others helps trigger the body’s natural mood lifters including dopamine, serotonin and endorphins.

With safety steps in place, aging adults can enjoy more beauty in winter than beast.

Stay warm indoors

A comfortable thermostat setting in winter is 68° to 70° F. Many elders push their thermostats to higher temperatures, but this promotes over-dry skin and nasal passages, and raises the heating bill. Instead, seniors who feel chilled might consider wearing thicker socks, fleece slippers and a thin, thermal undershirt and leggings. Today’s lightweight “long johns” trap body heat, wick away moisture and layer well beneath outer clothes. Wearing a scarf around the neck and a knit hat also can increase one’s warmth around the house.

Beware of slick outdoor conditions

Inclement weather can create a buildup of snow, ice and mud on walkways and driveways. Outdoor fall prevention includes these tips: wear nonskid boots, get help with snow shoveling, use ice melt or sand for traction, and watch diligently for black ice.

Wear appropriate clothing outdoors

Stay current on immunizations

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To prevent heat loss or hypothermia when body temperature drops too low, the elderly who venture into the cold should wear light, layered, loose-fitting clothing under an insulated, waterproof winter coat. Outerwear with a fleece lining and windproof shell is a plus.

A hat is a must since as much as 50 percent of body heat is lost through the head. Weatherproof, lined gloves or mittens that still allow for flexibility are also a smart answer to the cold.

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

Are You Ready for a Winter of Warmth and Wellness?

BY JENNIFER LEEFLANG

SPECIALSECTIONS@ANTONMEDIAGROUP.COM

Recent unseasonably warm temperatures here in the Northeast may make winter seem like it’s never coming, but cold weather is inevitably and definitely on its way. That means that planning ahead for extreme temperature drops is important, especially for older adults who can be especially vulnerable to health and home threats that the colder weather can bring.

Slower metabolisms, poor circulation, and reduced sensitivity to changes in body temperature can put the elderly at greater risk for hypothermia, illness and falls, especially when winter comes on full force. According to the CDC, more than half of hypothermia-related deaths occur in people over the age of 65—that’s a chilling statistic The key to cold safety is prevention.

As a registered nurse and the head of Partners in Care, a licensed home care agency affiliated with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, my colleagues and I help our elderly clients and their family caregivers prepare for the winter months. When the forecast includes a

Drink plenty of fluids and eat healthful foods rich in vitamins such as citrus, like grapefruits and tangerines.

(Photo by Christy Hinko)

“nor’easter,” we’re out on the frontlines making sure that those who are most at risk stay safe and toasty inside.

Here are a few of these simple reminders that will help you and your loved ones stay warm and healthy through the final weeks of winter:

Warm and Cozy is Good

Like high blood pressure, hypothermia can be a “silent killer” because victims may not be aware of the threats of prolonged exposure to the cold or common early symptoms such as shivering, exhaustion, drowsiness, reduced coordination, slurred speech and memory loss. Seniors who are ill or have diabetes are more likely to not

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Winter Weatherizing at Home

Don’t let the next blizzard or ice storm surprise you. Instead, prepare for the worst and keep supplies on-hand, including a fully stocked emergency kit, water, batteries, a heat generator, and food that needs no cooking preparation or refrigeration, such as crackers and dried fruits.

• Install weather stripping, insulation and storm windows.

• Caulking or plastic sheets can protect

windows and keep warm air in.

• Make sure that passageways inside and out are cleared of ice and debris to lessen risks for falling.

Practice Good Health Habits

There are several simple steps you can take to ensure that you don’t spread germs to your loved ones. These are tips we’ve all heard before, but they remain important to keep in mind: • Make sure to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

• Avoid touching your face. Habits like touching your eyes can act as a welcoming mat for viruses.

Jennifer Leeflang is an registered nurse and senior vice president at Partners in Care, providing expert private home care services. Partners in Care is an affiliate of The Visiting Nurse Service of New York, the largest certified nonprofit home- and community-based health care agency in the country. Visit www.partnersincareny. org or call 888-735-8913 for more information.

COMING FEBRUARY 17, 2016

As Long Island’s premier Continuing Care Retirement Community, Jefferson’s Ferry offers senior adults spectacular cottages and apartments in an active, friendly, independent community with the added benefit of on-site Enhanced Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing, if you need it.

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notice that their body temperature is dropping.

• Dress warmly: Wear loose-fitting and layered clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves because fingers generate warmth when they touch each other.

• Check your heating: Have your heating system serviced professionally; inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. Keep your thermostat to a recommended 70F. Use electric space heaters in bedrooms or bathrooms as a way of heating small rooms.

• Eat well: Food provides the body with energy and essential nutrients to help maintain adequate body temperature at 98.6F.

Wash your hands often with antibacterial soap and make sure to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Wednesday, March 9th What is a CCRC? 10:30 am Overview and limited tour of independent living.

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

This Valentine’s Day, Choose Self Love Whether you are in a romantic relationship this Valentine’s Day or not, the thought of it often comes with a lot of pressure and expectation about what the day should look like. We have been conditioned to look outside of ourselves for all of the really important things in life, especially pure unconditional love. My belief is that until we become our own steady source of love, we will find ourselves in the wrong relationships looking to someone else to give us all of the things that we have not yet been able to give to ourselves.

This Valentine’s Day, I invite you to put your focus on the relationship that you have with yourself and not rely on any outer circumstance or person to dictate or determine the course of your day. Give yourself all of the things that you wish to receive or experience on this or any day.

It’s exquisite how when we start valuing ourselves fully, the people in our lives naturally start to show up in a different way by also recognizing our worth. It’s time to start giving yourself permission to bask in the beautiful brilliance that is you

your past relationships will help you cultivate an open heart that is ready for new experiences.

LIFE EVOLUTIONS Melody Pourmoradi and to treat yourself to all of the magnificence that you long for and deserve.

Try out one or all of these ideas and see which ones resonate with you.

How to practice self love this Valentine’s Day:

Be willing

Commit to changing the way you have moved through your relationships in the past. Challenge what hasn’t worked so far and actively commit to understanding who you need to be to love yourself fully and to attract a partner who can also love you for your authentic self.

Forgive yourself

Excuse yourself for all the times that you may have lost a part of yourself to find another. Deeply forgiving past mistakes and misjudgments in

Tune in

Take time to check in with yourself and to connect to whatever it is that you need to be, feel, or do in that moment. This will set the tone for your day and activate a presence of love that you can carry with you always.

Create a mantra

We all have an ongoing internal script within ourselves that we sometimes aren’t even aware of. Become mindful of your inner voice and guide it to choose loving messages whenever the negativity starts to creep in. Some empowering mantras are: “I love and accept myself always” or “Self love is my birthright” or “I am valuable”.

Eat well

Being selective about what food you choose to nourish your body with is one of the most important forms of self love. Know how your food choices affect you and select the ones that create the highest form of energy, comfort and delight in your body.

Write yourself a love note

Take some time to write down

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all of the things that you love about yourself. Fight the urge to point out your flaws. Your self doubt muscle may be stronger than your self love muscle at the moment, but focusing on your strengths and your gifts will fuel your mission to create more appreciation and gratitude for yourself.

Spoil yourself

Always remember to indulge in things that create passion and excitement in your life. These are the things that fuel you to always function at optimum levels and flood you with good energy. Whether it is a great book or a walk in nature, be sure to set this valuable time aside for yourself.

Never underestimate the power and value in nurturing the relationship that you have with yourself. Self love breathes light into every corner of your life and is key in creating healthy and lasting relationships with others. So write yourself that beautiful love note, buy yourself your favorite flowers and honor the time you have set aside to honor, love and care for yourself.

Melody Pourmoradi is a women’s wellness and lifestyle coach at Life Evolutions Coaching. Learn more about her services at www. lifeevolutionscoaching.com

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HEALTHY LIVING • FEBRUARY 10 - 16, 2016

“Please

don’t let me die. ”

“Please don’t let me die,” the young woman with the potentially fatal heart infection begged the St. Francis Hospital nurse. “Please don’t let me die.”

“We won’t let that happen,” the nurse promised.

And doctors did everything humanly possible to keep that promise. When the woman went into cardiac arrest, they inserted devices that took over her heart and lung functions. The staff performed CPR in rotating teams until they were nearly exhausted. They would not give up.

So when her heart started to function on its own, the entire hospital rejoiced. A patient saved. A young woman happily traveling, running and teaching again. A promise kept.

Perhaps this unique combination of empathy and excellence goes a long way toward explaining why, for the past 9 years, St. Francis has been the only hospital on Long Island recognized for Cardiology & Heart Surgery by U.S.News & World Report.

For more life saving stories, find us on Facebook @StFrancisHeartCenter

100 Port Washington Blvd., Roslyn, NY 11576

For a physician referral, call 1-888-HEARTNY.

stfrancisheartcenter.com

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