Arizona Health & Living Magazine West Valley January 2015

Fresh Start Issue Top Winter Superfoods Why You Should Skip Crunches Understanding Abnormal Pap Test Results How to Make Moving Easier for Kids

Cate Blanchett Talented & Beautiful

OCT OBER2013 az heal t handl i vi ng. com

JANUARY 2015

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 65 azhealthandliving.com

3

Simple Changes That Can Improve Your Well-Being The Dangers of Belly Fat Building a Successful Freelance Career Hypothyroidism & Misdiagnosis Things to Know Before Refinancing Your Mortgage

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FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH THE

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Contents

A Division of

Publisher Great Central Sun Media Group Executive Editor Lisa Padilla Celebrity Photo Editor Pure Intent B.C. Group Graphic Design Pure Intent B.C. Group

Contributing Writers

Grey Stafford Michelle Talsma Everson National Cancer Institute Alison Bailin Batz Rachel Neppes Dr. Steven F. Hotze Gregory Downing Dr. Frank King Jim Fannin Rodger Friedman Rick Rodgers Mike Finley Chris Hurn Joe Veilleux

COMMUNITY

LIFESTYLE & LIVING

14-22 Inside Arizona

44-47 Family, Kids & Relationships

Know Your Neighbors; Heart of the Community; Neighborhood Buzz

How to Make Moving Easier on Kids;Tips for Raising Financially Literate Kids All Year-Round; Things to Know Before Refinancing Your Mortgage

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Contact us: Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC 16845 N. 29th Ave. Ste. #754 Phoenix, Arizona ,85053 623.335.0771 Advertise@, Editor@, Press@ @azhealthandliving.com www.azhealthandliving.com www.facebook.com/ArizonaHealthandLiving www.twitter.com/AzHealthLiving

About us: Great Central Sun Media Group, a media and marketing firm, was founded in 2009 to empower individuals and businesses to make positive decisions that not only impact their health, but the health of the communities they call home. We are on a mission of successfully publishing community magazines, to be used as a powerful source by which the new generation can follow to be encouraged, motivated, inspired, and educated to live a healthier lifestyle. We strive with faith to spread healthy living information that will enlighten everyone to know that the word "health" is not just about physical fitness, but rather a combination of the mind, body, and spirit - and when balanced, creates a synergy of well-being and healthy living.

26-28 Health Cervical Cancer & Pap Tests Results; ;Hypothyroidism & Misdiagnosis

48-51 Fitness, Nutrition & Sports Why You Should Skip Crunches; Top Winter Superfoods; Natural Supplements; The Dangers of Belly Fat

30-32 Mind, Body & Spirit How to Keep New Year’s Resolutions; Three Simple Changes That can Improve Your Health, Happiness and Well-Being

Special thanks to God, our advertisers, community partners, contributors, and readers for making this magazine possible.

Arizona Health & Living is published monthly. All rights are reserved. The entire contents of Arizona Health & Living are copyright 2014 by Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC. Reproduction in whole or part, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, pictorial, or design content, including electronic retrieval systems is prohibited in the United States & foreign countries.

The trademark and tradename, Arizona Health & Living, is owned by Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC.

52 Celebrity Cate Blanchett: An Icon on Screen and Stage

The publisher does not assume responsibility for statements or work by advertisers. The contents in Arizona Health & Living, such as text, graphics and other material ("Content") are intended for educational purposes only. The Content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions you have regarding your medical condition. Events and the neighborhood buzz section presented are provided as a service, and do not represent an endorsement or recommendation of specific events or sponsors. The publisher in no way sponsors, endorses, promotes, or administers any products that are featured within the publication.

Arizona Locally Owned Business

54-58 Career, Business & Finance Tips for Keeping Your Financial Fitness Resolution; Things to Consider for Your Business in 2015; Tips for Building a Successful Freelance Career; Top 10 Ways People Go Broke

Pick up a free copy inside

SENIOR LIVING

locations.

33-41 Healthy Chatter Local Doctors, Experts & Business Owners Answering Frequently Asked Questions

12 January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

60-63 Aging Well What Will You Discover When Visiting Your Parents this Holiday Season?; Low-Tech Holiday Gifts the Grandkids Will Remember

Together We Can Make a Difference...

“You crown the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip with abundance.” ~ Psalm 65:11 Welcome, to our Fresh Start Issue!

What a blessing to be alive, in 2015! Many have started the year with New Year resolutions, while others may still be holding on to some from prior years. Stop recycling your resolutions – and start the New Year meditating on God’s word, for your best year ever!

Last year is gone- let it go and let God! Thank and praise God for another opportunity to make a fresh start!

Here are a few Bible verses to inspire a fresh start with God in 2015:

Psalm 51:10-11

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.

Isaiah 43:18-19

Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

Philippians 3:13-15

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

Do Not Boast About Tomorrow James 4:13-17

Come now, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that. But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope..

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Ephesians 4:22-24

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Ezekiel 36:25-27

Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Colossians 3:23-24

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

Until next time, Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year filled with many blessings!

Thank You & God Bless You for Your Support!

Here to serve,

Lisa Padilla

editor@azhealthandliving.com azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

13

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS

SUPPORT LOCAL

By Rachel Neppes

Creditsafe

Boosts Southeast Valley job market with opening of new center After experiencing phenomenal growth in recent years, Creditsafe, the world’s most-used supplier of company credit reports now has a home in Tempe, Arizona.

Creditsafe is on a mission to put an end to the stodgy bureaucracy of credit reporting. It provides customers with a comprehensive, practical and cost-effective alternative to the credit reporting bureaus that monopolize the United States.

“Credit reporting is one of the most archaic and stuffy industries out there. We’re a young company that grew up in the Internet age and are benefiting from savings in data and infrastructure costs that get passed on straight to our customers. We don’t have fancy offices, corporate jets or the need to entertain Wall Street stockholders. We believe that people have paid too much for too long for business credit data, and we want to change that here in the States,” Matthew Debbage, president of Creditsafe’s U.S. operations, explains.

In November, Creditsafe announced the opening of a new sales center in Tempe. It chose Tempe in order to serve customers better in the western U.S. So far, Creditsafe has hired 30 employees and plans to grow its staff to 150 local residents by 2016.

“We looked at a number of western cities but chose the Valley based on its attractive real estate market, central location and dynamic talent pool,” Debbage says.

“Because so much of our business strategy is focused on telesales, operating on the same time zone as our west coast customers and prospects is extremely important to us.”

“To achieve our growth plans in the West, we’re actively on the lookout for ambitious, sales-minded individuals in Tempe and would love to hear from candidates who fit the bill. While we’re serious about providing the best credit reporting to our customers, we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Our office culture provides employees with a fun and unique work environment and rewarding career path. In fact, 70 percent of our senior managers started out with us as telesales representatives,” Debbage adds.

The telesales representatives are responsible for making outbound telemarketing calls to prospective clients.

While sales experience is a plus, it’s not mandatory, as long as candidates have excellent communication skills and a drive to succeed.

14

January 2015| azhealthandliving.com

Photos courtesy of Creditsafe

Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for accreditation.

They also added gynecological cancer treatment to their Creditsafe itself services, on maintaining growing listprides of patient another the firstlargest for thesingle West owned and integrated database of business credit Valley.

information, which includes 135 million company credit Today, gathered the practice now 52 physicians, more than reports from 129boasts countries.

In 2014, Creditsafe 200 employees and 20 partner offices Valleywide, including delivered more than 75 million reports to 80,000 customers several in the West Valley cities of Peoria, Avondale, around the globe. Its subscription services include domestic Glendale, Surprise and Wickenburg. and international credit reports, trade payment data, credit monitoring, analysis, credit reports, “We are a risk cancer centerbusiness withoutofficers’ walls whose services and business media monitoring. stretch into every inch of this community, offering the West Valley with the best doctors, best treatment technologies and best the country,” Dr. U.S., Reed With its growing baseresearch of 5,000in customers in the says. “Cancer disease ofgrowth survivors – for and the we western want to Creditsafe has is anaaggressive plan keep itand thataway.”

U.S., large part of that success will rely on its Tempe-based sales force.

Arizona1.855.551.6903 Center for Cancer Care 1400 E. Southern Ave.Peoria 14155 N. 83rd Ave., #127, Tempe 623.773.2873 www.creditsafe.com www.arizonaccc.com

The Newest Bundle of Joy at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park!

By Dr. Grey Stafford

The newest bundle of joy at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park is a young male giraffe — and what a big bundle he is! Standing about 6 feet at birth, the young calf is doing well and is already integrated with the main giraffe herd, though never too far from mom. Even at that height, he's got a few years before he will be tall enough to meet visitors standing atop the popular giraffe feeding station.

Sadly, a recent report reveals that wild populations of giraffe have plummeted by 40 percent over the past 15 years primarily due to illegal poaching, leaving some scientists concerned that the various subspecies may go extinct in the wild if trends are not reversed.

WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO , AQUARIUM & SAFARI PARK 165th Ave. & Northern 623.935.WILD (9453) www.wildlifeworld.com This space is sponsored by Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium

azhealthandliving.com | January azhealthandliving.com | July 2015 2013

15 15

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

SUPPORT LOCAL

By Alison Bailin Batz

Girl Scouts – Arizona Cactus-Pine Council Partner with local chefs to create a new Leadership Center Girl Scouts was founded in Savannah, Georgia, March 12, 1912, and chartered by the United States Congress March 16, 1950. The Arizona Cactus- Pine Council (GSACPC) has been serving girls throughout central and northern Arizona since the first troop meeting in 1936.

The Cactus-Pine Council serves a vast jurisdictional area encompassing approximately 75,000 square miles of the state of Arizona, serving girls in more than 90 communities, including Indian Reservations and military installations in central and northern Arizona.

“In Arizona, our Council serves more than 25,000 girls in grades K-12 with the help of more than 11,000 adult members who act as troop leaders, mentors, program assistants, consultants and board members,” Susan De Queljoe of the local Council says.

According to De Queljoe, more than 59 million women in America today enjoyed Girl Scouts during their childhood —and that number continues to grow as Girl Scouts of the United States continues to inspire, challenge and empower girls everywhere.

“In Girl Scouts, girls discover the fun, friendship and power of girls together. Through a myriad of enriching experiences, such as extraordinary field trips, sports skillbuilding clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges and environmental stewardships, girls grow courageous and strong,” De Queljoe says.

To increase its ability to serve girls, the Cactus-Pine Council has undertaken the Campaign for Girls in Arizona, which will help them to serve more girls, train more adult volunteers, expand its programs and create a new Leadership Center in South Phoenix.

“Our comprehensive campaign goal is to raise $15 million in philanthropic support. This will enable us to significantly expand and enhance the Girl Scout experience for more girls,” De Queljoe says.

The full campaign includes transforming Camp Sombrero to enhance the Girl Scout Leadership experience. Camp Sombrero, located at the base of South Mountain Preserve, is a 14.5-acre site that has been owned and used by Girl Scouts for the last 51 years.

“It’s time to better utilize this beautiful property and transform it into a urban program center, with camp appeal, to provide leadership training for girls and women, give girls their first camping experience close to home and serve the surrounding community groups, partner organizations and schools,” De Queljoe says. “We’re halfway to our fundraising goal for Camp Sombrero and look toward beginning phased construction in early 2015.”

16

January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Photos courtesy of Girl Scouts – Arizona Cactus-Pine Council

Along with several fundraising and campaign elements, the Council has partnered with some unique Valley leaders to help with the transformation of Camp Sombrero – local chefs!

When the Girl Scouts reach their 2015 cookie sales goal, with the help of the chefs, they will have raised more than $1 million for the Campaign for Girls, from the sale of cookies.

“For the second year in a row, we’ve partnered with more than two dozen local restaurants for a Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge, where chefs from popular local restaurants re-imagine one of the six beloved flavors of Girl Scout cookies into a custom dessert menu item,” De Queljoe says.

Each restaurant is featuring its own special item on its menu from Feb. 1 to Feb. 28, 2015, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the transformation of Camp Sombrero.

“We want to inspire the community with this new take on our classic cookies so they’ll buy an extra box or two and try their hand at a new recipe,” De Queljoe says.

1.800.352.6133 119 E. Coronado Rd. Phoenix www.girlscoutsaz.org

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

17

Be InformeD

NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ

Arizona Biltmore Hosts Expanded, Supercharged 2nd Annual Arizona Concours d’Elegance On Sunday, Jan. 11, join other Valley neighbors at the 2nd Annual Arizona Concours d’Elegance. Ninety rare and exceptional automobiles are entered in the 2015 Arizona Concours d’ Elegance and will be displayed on the verdant and manicured inner lawns of the legendary Arizona Biltmore, located at 2400 E. Missouri Avenue, in Phoenix. In addition to The Cars of Frank Lloyd Wright, The Cars of Carrozzeria Ghia and Pierce-Arrow, pre-1965 competition Ferraris also will be a specially featured class. Judges will select winners in 17 concours classes as well as a Best of Show. Other special awards will also be presented.

One of the greatest champions of auto racing, Sir Stirling Moss OBE, will be an honored guest. This event will benefit Make-A-Wish Arizona, the founding chapter of the national organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Tickets are $75. For more information, visit www.arizonaconcours.com.

SmartKitchen.com and AJ’s Fine Foods Collaborate on In-Store Education Program SmartKitchen.com has partnered with AJ’s Fine Foods on a consumer education program aptly named “Smart Kitchen in the Aisles.” Smart Kitchen in the Aisles connects consumers who are shopping at AJ’s Fine Foods, with educational information about specific foods throughout the stores.

SmartKitchen.com will be introducing their online cooking school and Smart Kitchen in the Aisles to shoppers throughout the next few months in AJ’s Fine Food locations around the Valley. Small signs are located near dozens of items throughout all AJ’s Fine Foods stores in Arizona, with helpful cooking tips and a scannable QR code that will take shoppers to instructional SmartKitchen.com videos, recipes and more. SmartKitchen.com will be offering shoppers who scan the QR codes throughout the stores 50% off six months of unlimited cooking instruction on their website. The offer is available when an educational sign is scanned in-store and redeemable with a promotional code that will appear when a sign is scanned. For more information, visit www.smartkitchen.com. For AJ’s Fine Foods locations, visit www.ajsfinefoods.com.

The BIG Maricopa County Home and Garden Show The Maricopa County Home and Garden Show is kicking off the 2015 Home Show season January 16-18 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. This annual show boasts more than 800 businesses filling 400,000 square feet at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. This event will features 1000’s of home improvement, design/landscaping products and services with exclusive pricing, walk through landscape displays with complimentary consultations, a chance to win fabulous prizes by supporting the 100 Club of Arizona’s 5th Annual Hero’s Raffle benefiting families of public safety officers and firefighters, free “How to” Home Improvement and Gardening Seminars and more. The show will be held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds located at 1826 W. McDowell Road, in Phoenix. Admission is $5 daily for adults, kids ages 3-12 are $2. Children 2 and under are free. The highly anticipated Senior Morning will take place on Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and guests 60+ will receive free admission. Customer Appreciation will take place Friday evening: attend the show between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. free. Current members of the military will receive free admission with valid military identification all three days. Anyone with a birthday in January can also receive free admission all three days by showing a valid ID. Donate a case of bottled water (24 count) to the 100 Club at the gated entrances in exchange for two free tickets to the show.

18 January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Hillcrest Dance & Social Club of Sun City West - Black & White Ball

On Saturday, Jan. 17, get your dancing shoes ready and join other Valley neighbors for Hillcrest Dance & Social Club of Sun City West Semi-formal Black & White Ball Dinner/Dance. This event will take place at the RH Johnson Social Hall, located at 19803 RH Johnson Blvd., in Sun City West. Doors open at 5 p.m., for buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m., dance to Route 66 Trio 7-10 p.m. Reservations must be made by Jan. 11. For more information or to RSVP, call 623-544-0574.

The Flagstaff Ski Club Launches Fundraising Campaign

The Flagstaff Ski Club, FAST, and the Grand Canyon Freeride teams, are now looking to the future and focused on the launch of their fundraising campaign called NextGen. This campaign will provide funds for normal operations as well as many other functions such as additional coaches and coaches training, race run enhancements and certifications, safety, timing, training and communications and equipment as well as scholarships for junior athletes. Over the decades, The Flagstaff Ski Club has trained thousands of Arizona junior athletes, from talented amateurs to Junior Olympians and even Winter Olympians. Today FAST and GCFT has over 150 dedicated junior athletes from age 6 to 18 and more than 20 professional coaches. The Flagstaff Alpine Ski Team and The Grand Canyon Freeride Team have trained for many years at Arizona Snowbowl, one of the longest operating ski resorts in the Western US. Snowbowl features four chairlifts, two conveyor belts, two lodges, a top-rated ski and snowboard school and a cutting-edge freestyle Terrain Park. For more information or to donate, visit www. flagstaffskiclub.org. azhealthandliving.com |January 2015

19

Be InformeD

NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ

Legends of the Game Golf Classic On Wednesday, Jan. 28, play a round with Hall-of-Famers such as Dick Butkus, Curley Culp, Randall McDaniel, Andre Reed and many more at the Legends Golf Game Classic Five Man Scramble Tournament. Four amateur players will be teamed with an NFL Hallof-Famer or an NFL sports celebrity as a Team captain. This event will feature contests, prizes and a special tournament gift package for all players. Food and beverages will also be provided. All players will be invited to the awards dinner ceremony. All proceeds from the event benefit Prostate On-Site Project (POP), a 501(c)(3) charity. POP’s mission is to improve the quality of life for men and their families through awareness, and the early detection of prostate cancer. POP has mobile medical screening units that travel throughout Arizona offering free or low-cost prostate cancer screenings. This event will be held at the Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass located at 5692 W. North Loop Road, in Chandler.

For more information, call 480.964.3013 or visit www.prostatecheckup.org.

New Papa Murphy’s Pizza in Fountain Hills is Giving 100 Free Pizzas!

Papa Murphy’s, the country’s largest take ‘n’ bake pizza chain, has opened a brand new store in Fountain Hills at 13525 North Fountain Hills Blvd. The Fountain Hills Papa Murphy’s will host a ribbon cutting Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. with the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce to kick off a weekend of fun festivities. On Saturday, Jan. 17, the first 100 customers at Pap in line at the new location will receive a free large signature pepperoni pizza. This promotion starts at 10 a.m. and will last until 100 people have received their free pie. For the rest of the day on Jan. 17, large signature pepperoni pizzas will cost $4 each.

Additionally the new location will offer customers pizza tasting, games, prizes and other kid-friendly activities throughout the day on Jan. 17.

Customers can text AZ095 to 90421 for a chance to win pizza for a year as part of the grand opening festivities.* A winner will be drawn Monday, Jan. 19, and the winner will be notified by the store.*MSG and Data Rates apply. Max 6 MSG/mo. Consent to receive a text message is not a condition of purchasing a good or service. Text STOP to opt-out, HELP for more info. For more information, visit www.papamurphys.com/ termsandconditions.

Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation Grants Funds to Barrow Neurological Institute for Brain Cancer Research The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation (Ivy Foundation) has awarded an $885,294 grant to Barrow Neurological Institute (Barrow) for brain cancer research. The Ivy Foundation is the largest privately funded brain cancer research foundation in North America. Catherine Ivy, a Phoenix native, is the founder and president of the Ivy Foundation, which has a research funding focus on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common and deadliest of malignant primary brain tumors in adults.

With support from the Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation, they can take the steps necessary to develop and test this strategy in newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients. Their hope is that it will not only be a relatively safe strategy, but one that starkly impacts the ability of glioblastomas to recur or move beyond its site of origin in newly diagnosed patients. For more information, visit www.thebarrow.org. For more information about the Ivy Foundation, visit www.IvyFoundation.org.

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January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

8

Save a life. Don’t Drive HoMe buzzeD. DRIVING.

November 2012 | azhealthandliving.com BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK

azhealthandliving.com | May 2012

23

Odds of having 3 multi-platinum albums

1/ 1,650,000

Odds of having a child diagnosed with autism

1/88

Toni Braxton encourages you to learn the signs of autism at autismspeaks.org Early diagnosis can make a lifetime of difference. azhealthandliving.com | November 2012

© 2012 Autism Speaks Inc. “Autism Speaks” and “It’s time to listen” & design are trademarks owned by Autism Speaks Inc. All rights reserved. Courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment.

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MAKE A RESOLUTION TO TRANSFORM YOUR BODY! Only CoolSculpting allows you to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat without needles, special diets, surgery or downtime. This non-surgical body contouring treatment is FDA-cleared, safe and proven effective. So what are you waiting for?

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Mention this ad and get $100 off on your Body Contouring Treatment. is a breakthrough, non invasive procedure that uses cooling technology to noticeably eliminate fat without surgery. Physician Skin Solutions is proud to be among the first in the area to offer this revolutionary treatment. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

18275 N. 59th Ave., Ste. C-116 Glendale, AZ 85308 (602) 843-4040 physicianskinarrowhead.com

CoolSculpting is a registered trademark and the CoolSculpting logo, the Snowflake design, and Let’s Get Naked are trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. Results and patient experience may vary. Consult your physician. Š 2012. All rights reserved. IC1037-A

Celebrate the New Year with CoolSculpting!

WHY ADVERTISE WITH The Right Target Audience It is the most important factor, which makes a world of difference and will move your business from market penetration, to market domination.

Results

"The ultimate reason to advertise and your choice of where to advertise is return on investment. A cheap ad campaign that produces few results ends up being an expensive ad campaign. With this in mind, we track our ROI in all advertising that we do.

The AZH&L campaign by far has produced the best return on investment of any advertising vehicle we tried. And we've tried a lot."

- Dr. K. Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Nutrition Network

Pick up a free copy inside CVS Pharmacy 48

What Are You Waiting For ?

March 2013 | azhealthandliving.com

Call or Email Today!

602.348.9894 advertise@azhealthandliving.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

“The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.�~John 3:8

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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PREVENT

health

By MS & Courtesy of the National Cancer Institute

Cervical Cancer & Pap Tests Results Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable of the gynecologic cancers because screening is available through PAP tests.

According to Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), cervical cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States. However, in the past 40 years, the number of cases of cervical cancer and the number of deaths from cervical cancer have decreased significantly. According to National Institutes of Health (NIH), this decline largely is the result of many women getting regular Pap tests, which can find cervical pre-cancer before it turns into cancer.

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix, essentially the gateway between the vagina and the uterus in the female reproductive system. Before cancer develops, abnormal cells in the cervix will develop.

Cervical cancer is detected through a Pap test, where cells from the cervix are collected in the doctor's office and then examined in a lab.

If your health care provider told you that your recent Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear) showed cell changes in your cervix, it may comfort you to know that each year more than 3 million women receive similar news.

The good news is that, almost always, women with cell changes do not have cancer of the cervix (also called cervical cancer). But it is important that you protect your health by getting the follow-up tests and care that your health care provider suggests. Having cell changes does not mean that you will get cancer of the cervix. In fact, when cell changes are found and treated early, almost all women can avoid getting cervical cancer.

Common changes in cervical cells

Getting your questions answered

• Growths, such as benign (noncancerous) polyps or cysts

So what is the next step? What do your results mean?

Does this mean you need treatment and, if so, what kind?

You will probably have other questions, or you might be concerned about the choices you may need to make. These reactions are normal. But understanding your Pap test results — and what to expect when the results are not normal — can help you make informed decisions and plan your next steps.

• Changes in hormones that occur during pregnancy or menopause

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| azhealthandliving.com

Cervical cells can go through many types of changes that are not cancer. These changes can be caused by: • Inflammation (redness and swelling) • An infection (bacterial, viral, or yeast)

Although many cervical cell changes are common, and not related to cancer, they sometimes make cervical cells look abnormal. Your health care provider may suggest that you repeat your Pap test or order other tests to be certain that the cell changes are not cancer.

Cell changes caused by HPV are of special concern Some cervical cell changes are caused by infection with a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus). Most HPV infections eventually go away, but sometimes they do not.

In infections that do not clear, the HPV-infected cells may become precancerous. If these precancerous cells are not detected and treated early, they can develop into invasive cancer of the cervix. An HPV test can detect the virus in cervical cells.

Other risk factors for cervical cancer An ongoing or persistent infection with a high-risk HPV type is the most important cause of and risk factor for cervical cancer. However, studies have shown that other factors may act together with HPV to increase a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer. These factors include cigarette smoking, giving birth to multiple children, and use of birth control pills for five or more years.

For more resources to learn more, you can order free publications at www.cancer.gov/publications, call 1-800-4CANCER, or visit http://www.cancer.gov.

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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HEALTH

PREVENT

By Dr. Steven F. Hotze, founder of the Hotze Health & Wellness Center, and author of Hormones, Health and Happiness

Hypothyroidism & Misdiagnosis There are at least two aspects of a misdiagnosis that can cause patients harm. First, it means you are not being treated for what’s actually causing illness; second, a misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments and medicines with side effects that can cause you harm.

But there’s a quality of life issue that’s important as well. Many of my patients are women at or near middle age, and they often suffer from a multitude of symptoms including fatigue, low body temperature, brain fog, weight gain, loss of libido, hair loss and depression. Too often, their physician tells them that ‘nothing is wrong.’

Women are more apt than men to pay attention to their bodies — and they’re right for doing so. A woman's body includes a much more complex hormonal balancing act, with dramatic swings involved in the menstrual cycle.

Often, the women who have that litany of symptoms do have a medical issue: hypothyroidism. A “hidden epidemic” because it is so frequently undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

The condition means the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone, which affects hormone regulation.

Hypothyroidism affects women seven times more frequently than men. Here are three ways in which a missed hypothyroidism diagnosis can affect a patient’s life.

Living with unrelieved symptoms. When a person experiences the constellation of symptoms associated with hypothyroidism and is told by multiple doctors that it’s, ‘just a normal part of aging,” the future can seem bleak. Many physicians will order blood work and tell the patient she’s fine because the results are “normal.” However, 95 percent of people tested for hypothyroidism fall within a range considered normal.

Also, keep in mind that two different labs testing identical blood samples can provide different results.

Prescribed unnecessary medication with undesirable side effects. Wellbutrin, Lexapro, Paxil, Effexor, Zoloft 28

January 2015| azhealthandliving.com

and Fluoxetine – these are just some of the antidepressants that one in four women take, according to a recent report from MedCo. One in 10 Americans, or 30 million people, are taking pills to fight depression, and 30 percent of the women aged 35 to 60 who are taking them are doing so because of misdiagnosed hypothyroidism. Antidepressants can have numerous side effects, from nausea and irritability to sexual dysfunction and homicidal or suicidal thoughts.

Uncomfortable, unhealthy physical changes. Untreated hypothyroidism causes weight gain, which can further affect a person’s emotional health. The weight gain comes with all the risks any excessive weight brings, from diabetes to heart disease.

Hormone replacement therapy, as long as bio-identical hormones are used, has been proven a healthy and effective treatment for women suffering hypothyroidism.

The distinction between synthetic and bioidentical hormones is important. The latter have the same molecular structure as the hormones that are found naturally in the body, which means bioidentical hormone treatments cannot hurt patients. Counterfeit hormones – those that do not perfectly match the molecular structure of hormones in one’s body – can be dangerous.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Youth…

Be Aware – it’s Not so Rare!

WARNING SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF A HEART CONDITION: • Fainting (syncope) or seizure during or after physical activity • Fainting (syncope) or seizure resulting from emotional excitement, emotional distress or startle

• Chest pain or discomfort / racing heartbeat • Unusual shortness of breath • Unexplained fainting or seizures

• Unusual fatigue / tiredness

• Family history of heart disease

• Dizziness / lightheadedness during or after physical activity

• Family history of unexpected sudden death during physical activity or during a seizure, or any other unexplained sudden death of an otherwise healthy family member under age 50

Consult a physician promptly if you or someone you know has one or more of these signs and/or symptoms

For more information: www.ParentHeartWatch.org or (800) 717-5828

CONNECT WITHIN

MIND, BODY & spirit

By Jim Fannin, ZoneCoach®, author, educator, raconteur, life strategist and sports/business consultant

How to Keep New Year's Resolutions

11 steps to guarantee positive results We all have good intentions this time of year. I'd like to lose 30 pounds… I'd like to get back into a size four dress… I'd like to increase my sales… I'd like to be nicer to my family… I'd like to eliminate worry… I'd like to play tennis again…

Across America this list goes on and on, and on every year at about this time. New Year's resolutions made, New Year's resolutions failed. Here are 11 suggestions that can help make those New Year's resolutions stick:

Out with the old… In with the new It's time to bury 2014. Take down your holiday decorations. Get rid of everything that is unwanted. It's time to start fresh. It's time to wipe your slate clean. It's time to prune the tree. Change your worn-out expressions that you sprinkled in all your conversations in 2014. If you are still using, "Yada Yada Yada," bag it (that was a decade ago). Forget how you used to manage your money in 2014. Clean your closets. Give your "fat clothes" to Goodwill. It may be time to get a new broker, banker, accountant, dentist, physician or attorney. It may be time to re-invent you.

Be realistic Make a list of things that are possible. Limit your resolutions. It's better to change one big thing than five little ones; however, it's OK to reach for goals that are a stretch. Remember, your resolutions cannot be about something that you physically or technically cannot do.

See what you want…NOT what you don't want Avoid statements like, "I don't want to swear anymore."

Instead, say, "I have clean speech."

Make your resolutions measurable I want to be happy… I want to lose weight… I want to get healthy. These are all nice thoughts but they are only 30

January 2015| azhealthandliving.com

wishful thinking. A measurable resolution is something like, “I want to weigh 122 pounds by 3/1/15, I will play tennis competitively in a league by 6/1/15, or I want to be vice president of my company by 12/31/15.”

See it and say it as if it's so I am going to lose weight is not a resolution. Act as if you have already accomplished your feat. Say what you want in finished state: "I am fit at 140 pounds with 10 percent body fat." That is a resolution easier to keep.

See this in your mind and say it as if it is so - this is one of the keys of how a champion thinks. You can't be 140 pounds in a body that sees itself as 160 pounds.

Work backward Millions of Americans will attempt to reach their resolutions by going from A to B. This time try using the B to A Principle™. First, mentally see B. Then illuminate a pathway from B, chronologically back to A. Then proceed literally to move from A to B on a well-defined course of action.

Now if you get off track, you can easily find your way.

Walk on your well-lit pathway from A to B, as if you've already accomplished the goal.

Place a deadline In order to make mental, physical, and technical routine changes in your life, a deadline is mandatory. This deadline of accomplishment will create stress. This stress is good as long as it is created by you and for your benefit. Make them realistic and make them definite.

Break it down If you have an annual goal, break it down into months, weeks and days. Create an action plan, and be aware of the tactics and strategies on a daily basis. Now change can be facilitated. Again, make sure each part has a realistic deadline.

Remain positive Negative self-talk regarding your resolution will always end in failure. Avoid putting yourself down, talking about the past, comparing yourself to others, or judging yourself.

Daily dress rehearsal Mentally dress rehearse the night before the next day. See what you will accomplish regarding your resolution. This day is 1/90 of your quarterly goal, or 1/365 of your annual goal.

Repetition… Repetition… Repetition Thinking about your positive resolution will work when your thoughts are consistent. See accomplishment just before you go to sleep at night and just as you wake up in the morning. Framing your day by seeing it as if it is so will create the repetition and persistence needed to accomplish great resolutions.

Be mindful that you are making these resolutions for your best friend… YOU. Treat yourself like a champion and the resolutions will become routine.

Now that you are armed with this 11-step program, remember: Good fortune favors the bold! Be bold with what you want and have a Happy New Year! azhealthandliving.com

|January 2015 31

CONNECT WITHIN

MIND, BODY & spirit

By Dr. Frank King, chiropractor, doctor of naturopathy, founder & president of King Bio, and author of The Healing Revolution

3

Simple Changes That Can Improve Your Health, Happiness & Well-Being

By Dr. Frank King chiropractor, doctor of naturopathy, founder & president of King Bio, and author of The Healing Revolution Imagine you’re a spider with just one leg. You put forth immense effort to try to haul yourself around and not only does it wear you out, it’s frustrating and you don’t get far.

It gets a bit easier with two legs and easier still with four legs. But it’s not until you have all eight legs that you can really dance.

The eight legs represent eight essentials we need for optimum mental, physical and spiritual health: Empowering your human spirit; Water; Nutrition; Fitness; Sleep; Nature; Relationships; and Hands On Techniques (touch).

It would be overwhelming and self-defeating to look at all eight areas and think, “have to make significant changes in every area immediately!” You don’t have to and who could? You can see immediate results by making a few small changes at a time. Here are three easy things you can do that will have you feeling better quickly.

smell of freshly turned earth or evergreens in the woods, the touch of cool stream water on your face or feet, the sight of birds on the wing and budding blooms.

Drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day.

These are not just pleasant little gifts to experience – we need them for restoration, renewal, revival and rehabilitation.

The more disconnected we become from the Earth, the more we inhibit our body’s natural ability to heal.

If you weigh 150 pounds that is 75 ounces of water, (about nine cups).

Take a brisk, 10- to 20-minute walk every day

Many of us walk around dehydrated without realizing it and that can have a significant effect on our health and how we feel. Dehydrated bodies trap toxins and encourage water retention – a natural defense against the chronic “drought.”

A simple test for dehydration: Pinch the skin on the back of your hand and hold for three seconds. When you release, if the ridge from the pinch remains for more than a second, you’re probably dehydrated.

Take at least a few minutes every day to connect with nature Nature brings perpetual revitalization and ongoing renewal, especially when experienced through multiple senses: the 32

January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Walking is the simplest, most natural form of exercise.

You might walk a nature trail, walk to the store instead of driving, or take your pet for a stroll.

According to an Arizona State University study, a three brisk 10-minute walks a day are as effective at lowering blood pressure as one 30-minute walk.

Outdoor walking is preferable to walking on a treadmill or other machine, since the uneven surfaces and changing directions of natural walking will engage more muscles and tendons.

Swing each arm in synchronization with the opposite foot to strengthen your cross-crawl functionality and mindbody balance.

“Together We Can Make a Difference”

HEALTHY CHATTER

Doctors, Businesses & Experts Answering Frequently Asked Questions

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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ASK QUESTIONS

expert talk

Q. I hear so much about Lasik but have hesitated because of the thought of a blade is it truly done without any blades?

Q. What new treatments are available Q. What is the cause of varicose and for spinal stenosis? spider veins? How can they be treated?

A. Aging causes arthritic corrosion to build A. Varicose veins are incompetent veins that

up in the areas of our spine where the sciatic nerve exits. This common condition in people over 50 is called spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis symptoms include back, hip or buttocks pain, with pain, heaviness, or numbness radiating from the back into the legs. The symptoms are usually worse when walking or standing and may be relieved by sitting. Very often, we talk about the nerves being pinched, but the truth is that the symptoms of stenosis are caused by a lack of blood supply to the nerves rather than direct pressure on them. The standard medical treatment for stenosis includes medications, injections and surgery.

appear under the skin and are usually blue in color. They can become enlarged due to pooling of blood. This occurs when the valves in the veins fail to keep the blood flowing in one direction that is towards the heart. This condition causes pain and swelling, night cramps, change in skin color and severe cases ulcers. Spider veins are small blue and red vessels visible within the skin, usually on legs but sometimes on face and chest.

systems can now handle a wide range of vision problems, including astigmatism, shortsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). Often, it can also make a difference to people over 40 who are frustrated by the need for glasses for close work. Lasik can help most, though not all, circumstances, and the best way to know if you are a candidate for laser vision correction is to call a physician for a consultation.

Cyclical loading and unloading of the spine is one of them. It works by intermittently decompressing the spine, which pumps fresh nutrients into the nerve and eliminates accumulated toxins. Another technique uses a mild electrical current applied to the leg that research shows may increase the blood supply to the sciatic nerve in stenosis patients.

Q. Will my insurance cover it?

–Dr. Walman Walman Eye Center

–Dr. Kukurin Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network 623.547.4727

A. The Lasik procedure has progressed

significantly since I started doing the procedure two decades ago. We can now perform Lasik using two types of lasers, one to fashion the flap, without the need for a blade, and the other to reshape the cornea to allow proper focusing. The entire procedure for both eyes now takes less than 15 minutes, is relatively comfortable, and vision is expected to improve rapidly so that you can return to work, driving, and other normal activities the next day.

Our Swiss-made Ziemer laser is the key to uniformity and consistency in the flap, resulting in a more rapid return of vision to excellent levels without the crutch of glasses or contacts.

Q. I have astigmatism and short sightedness; can the ‘all laser’ Lasik procedure help my vision?

A. Our technologically advanced laser

602.222.2020

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January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

The latest technology available for vein treatment at our center is called Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy (EVLT). A laser is used in a forty-five minute procedure to close the incompetent vein. This procedure However, these therapies do little to restore is performed at our practice under local the blood supply to the nerves that are anesthetics. choked-off by the stenosis. Remember it is mainly reduced nerve blood supply, which Q. Will I have to miss work? is responsible for pain, and other symptoms in patients suffering with spinal stenosis. No. there is no down time with EVLT. You We use some new treatments for stenosis are encouraged to walk and get back with your normal activities. that are very promising.

Yes, most insurance plans cover and pay for this procedure if it is deemed medically necessary. We also accept credit card and offer financing.

Another new and promisingly technique is called ambulatory traction. This allows patients with stenosis to exercises while their spine is being decompressed. These treatments offer hope and help for spinal stenosis sufferers.

–Dr. Sharma Arizona Vein & Laser Institute & Med Spa 602.298.VEIN(8346) 602.298.LIPO(5476)

Q. What is a deep cleaning, and why do I need this done?

Q. How can I choose the right pair of Q. What treatment options are available

A. Great question! This is a common concern amongst patients. Regular cleanings (prophys) are done every six months as a way to remove plaque and calculus above the gum line.

This helps maintain a healthy relationship between your teeth and the gums that attach them to your bone. However, in certain situations, bacteria can start to accumulate and you may begin to develop pockets between your teeth and the bone that hold them in. These pockets are diagnosed by using a perio probe, which acts like a small ruler and is painlessly used to measure the pocket depths. If the pockets are 3-mm or greater, there is the concern of periodontal disease.

A. I am often asked by patients how to A. The primary objective in treating Sleep-

At that point, it becomes necessary to clean below the gum line. This is a common procedure where our highly trained hygienist begins by numbing the local area. This is generally not a painful procedure. Your hygienist will then use the scaling tool to carefully remove the plaque and tarter below the gum line and down to the bottom of each pocket. This removes the bacteria that are causing the pockets to get deeper. The hygienist will then smooth the root’s surface (root planning); which helps prevent bacteria from re-accumulating.

After the deep cleaning is done, we recommend follow-up every 3-4 months to maintain the area. Brushing twice a day, flossing and a bi-annual cleaning can help with early detection and prevention of excessive bone loss.

– Dr. Kim Litchfield Dental Care 623.738.3027

glasses?

for Sleep-disordered breathing?

choose a pair of glasses. This is somewhat of disordered breathing is to open the airway a loaded question. Many choices need to be to allow a sufficient amount of oxygen into considered when getting a new pair of the lungs and bloodstream. glasses.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) The first thing is to ask yourself, is “What was thought for many years to be the gold do you want your eyewear for?” The answer standard of treatment for Sleep-disordered could be work, reading, driving or playing breathing. CPAP consists of a mask that sports. The answer dictates how you would fits over the mouth and/or nose using a go about choosing a frame, or even multiple tube to connect to an air compressor next to the bed. The compressor forces air into frames. the tube and mask, thus shooting air into Most individuals could benefit from more the nose and/or mouth, forcing the airway than one pair of glasses. A good comparison to open from the pressure of the air is shoes. Most people have multiple pairs of compressor. This mode of treatment is best shoes because they participate in many discussed with your physician. different activities. The same shoes you wear to a wedding usually won’t work so well on Surgery, such as tongue reduction, surgical the basketball court. The same principle removal of the soft tissue at the back of the applies to eyewear. If you spend a majority throat, removal of the uvula, modification of the day on the computer but also need of the palate, etc., is another treatment glasses to see for driving to and from work, option. Surgery is performed in-office or at then a pair of occupational glasses to use at a hospital by an ENT or oral surgeon. The the computer and a distance pair for driving American Academy of Sleep Medicine does may make eyes feel and function better. not consider surgery an effective long-term Those who spend a majority of time outdoors treatment for Sleep-disordered breathing, or a large amount of time driving may benefit and surgical procedures are considered only from a pair of prescription sunglasses.

30 to 50 percent effective.

Each individual has individual needs that need to be addressed when choosing a pair of glasses. With recommendations from your eye doctor and with help from a good optician, you can learn which glasses are right for you.

Oral appliance therapy has become a viable, scientifically based treatment option for Sleep-disordered breathing. Oral appliances hold the jaw in a position that allows the airway to remain as patent as possible during sleep. They are similar to athletic mouth guards, but are less bulky and completely non-invasive. Some patients report an increase in saliva production or minor discomfort upon awakening, but that generally subsides.

–Dr. Baird The Village Eyecare 623.931.2943

–Dr. Croft Vistancia Orthodontics 623.566.0800 azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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GET ANSWERS

expert talk

Q. What could cause Bell’s palsy?

A. Bell’s palsy is a neurological disease that

occurs in the facial area. Bell’s palsy usually starts without any early clue. In a typical case, patient wakes up with weakness on one side of face. Facial expressions such as closing the eyelid become difficult. Facial movement such as lifting the eyebrow becomes asymmetry. Pain, drooling and senseless facial feeling could be seen in serious case.

Symptoms of Bell’s palsy may be similar to other facial conditions such as stroke, trigeminal neuralgia and other pain conditions.

Even though facial related symptoms can be found on a stroke patient, Bell’s palsy is not the result of stroke. Bell’s palsy is due to the pathological change of the facial nerve that controls the facial muscle. A medical consultation and diagnosis is necessary before considering any alternative approaches.

Alternative therapies such as acupuncture could be an option for treatment of Bell’s palsy. Traditional analysis of the cause of Bell’s palsy points out that the Meridian channels around the facial region become deficient due to the external invasion of the wind and cold. The wind and the cold block the qi flow inside the Meridian channels in the facial region. Insertion of acupuncture needles around points on the meridian channels helps to expel the cold and the wind. With the return of normal blood and nerve flows, strength of the facial muscle is improved.

–Dr. Qiu Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network 623.972.8400

36 January 2015|azhealthandliving.com

Q. What Procedures are Available

Q. How do I know if I have gallstones

A. Under eye bags, sagging skin, or puffiness on or around the eyelids can often be corrected with a relatively simple surgical procedure known as a blepharoplasty.

A. The gallbladder is a storage place for bile which is a liquid produced in the liver. After eating fats, as your body begins the digestive process, your gallbladder contracts and pushes the stored bile into the common bile duct, which brings the liquid to your small intestine to aid digestion. Gallstones form when the liquid bile hardens and changes to hard pieces of stone-like material, which then can block the gallbladder from emptying or cause a blockage within the common bile duct causing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, or what is often called a gallbladder attack.

to Rejuvenate Aging Eyelids?

Benefits of a Blepharoplasty This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat, or tightening lax muscles to improve the appearance around the eyes.

The upper blepharoplasty procedure removes excess skin of the upper eyelid. The lower blepharoplasty focuses on removing bulging fat pads (bags) underneath the eyes. These surgical techniques are performed in-office.

They do not require general anesthesia and patients are able to walk-in and walkout for these procedures. Blepharoplasties typically have minimal downtime and a quick recovery.

What to expect from eyelid surgery

and if medical treatment is necessary?

Other symptoms may include constant heartburn, abdominal pain and bloating after you eat, or pain radiating to your back or right shoulder. Some people will experience fever, chills, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark color urine and gray color stools.

Incisions for blepharoplasty follow the natural contour lines in both upper and lower eyelids.

How you scar depends on both the skill of the surgeon and your own genetic propensity for scaring. Typically, once healed, these scars are barely visible and blend into the eyelids’ natural lines and folds. When combined with a Brow Lift, this technique is effective in preserving or restoring facial harmony.

Severe pain attacks or constant pain that interferes with your daily life may mean that surgery is the best option.

It is important to find an experienced plastic surgeon who can avoid some of the typical risks or complications such as creating a scar above the fold of the upper eyelid, over pulling the skin, or removing too much of the fat pad areas which creates a sunken, drawn appearance.

It is critical to seek medical treatment to ensure the gallbladder is removed before it ruptures.

– Drs. Pamela & Gael DeRouin Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery 602.680.5348

– Dr. Johnny Serrano Precision Surgery, Inc. 602.547.3300

There are now very minimally invasive surgical procedures available for gallbladder removal. These methods typically mean you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight, you will recover quicker, and you will have little to no scarring.

Q. Can you treat pain using essential Q. What is glaucoma? Am I at risk?

Q. Is your fear of cosmetic procedures

treating an array of disorders. As part of the growing popularity of natural medicine, essential oils have significant medical benefit.

Essential oils are used daily in cleaning sprays, bug repellants and laundry products.

pain and side effects are a major inhibitor for correcting the skin imperfections that may affect self-confidence. With advancements in technology along with experienced providers, you now can have it all.

oils?

A. Currently, glaucoma is the second leading inhibiting your skin’s radiance?

A. Essential oil has quite a long history in cause of blindness in the United States and A. For many people high cost, downtime,

Essential oils embody regenerating, oxygenating and immune–strengthening properties of plants. They help to relieve oxidative stress associated with inflammation that contributes to pain. Essential oils are lipid soluble and capable of penetrating cell membranes. They contain oxygen molecules to help transport nutrients into human cells. This helps aid in stimulating the immune system.

Many essential oils are very powerful antioxidants. They inhibit free radicals and help in prevention of inflammation and oxidation in cells. Essential oils also have antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral and antiseptic properties.

There are specific oils to treat a variety of pain including chronic, bone (arthritic), inflammation and muscle/joint/tissue pain.

Oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, frankincense, and lemongrass help decrease inflammation that contributes to pain. Wintergreen, cypress, sandalwood, and peppermint help to ease bone pain caused by acute injury (fracture), cancer, leukemia and osteoporosis.

worldwide. Glaucoma comprises a group of eye diseases that can lead to optic nerve damage. The optic nerve is the link between the eye and the brain, and it transmits information between the two. When the optic nerve is damaged, a person’s peripheral vision is affected first, so it is important to understand that a person may see clearly and still have glaucoma. Once this damage occurs, it cannot be reversed.

Some of the risk factors for developing glaucoma include: · Age - All people over the age of 60 and African-Americans over the age of 40 · Race - Leading cause of blindness for African-Americans · Family History - Sibling or parent with glaucoma · Eye Pressure - High eye pressure · Medication Use - Some medications, particularly long term corticosteroid use · Eye Injury - Trauma to the eye

New SublativeR treatments utilize nonlaser, non-light based technology to provide desired results without the risk or worry of more invasive procedures. This fractionated bi-polar radio frequency (RF) technology precisely targets the skin at a level to stimulate new collagen and new healthy surface skin cells offering some mild surface ablation while introducing deep dermal heat for renewed cellular proliferation. The result is improvement to acne scars, upper lip lines, crow’s feet, melasma and overall texture and tone. Because this is a non-laser device, and does not identify skin color, it is a safe and effective treatment for all skin types.

With no social down time, and options to treat only problem areas this is an excellent option for everyone

Annual eye health evaluations, which include pupil dilation and eye pressure assessment, Start the New Year with face and body skin are important to determine the presence of you love and feel confident about. One of glaucoma, especially if a person has any of my favorite treatments! the above risk factors.

The future is very hopeful for essential oils according to the American Medical Association there is continued research on properties in essential oils used for curing diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Lou Gehrig’s, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not for use in diagnosing any condition.

The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding any possible medical condition.

–Dr. Lundquist Active Life Physical Medicine & Pain Center 623.535.9777

– Dr. Osmotherly Midwestern University Eye Institute 623.537.6000

–Dr. Maltais Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead 602.843.4040 azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

37

JOIN & SUPPORT

MEET OUR health partners

Dr. Kukurin

Dr. Sharma

Dr. Kukurin was one of the nation’s first chiropractic physicians to attain board certification as a chiropractic neurologist.

Over the past 20 years he has pioneered many techniques of integrative neurology which applies alternative medicine techniques like acupuncture and herbal therapies to the treatment of common neurological disorders like neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease and other chronic neurological conditions.

Kulbhushan Sharma, M.D., FACS, was included in the “2009 Top Surgeons” by the Consumer Research Council of America. Dr. Sharma is board certified in general surgery and is also a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons. He did his vascular fellowship at the Arizona Heart Institute under worldrenowned cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Edward Dietrich. He has been practicing as a general and vascular surgeon for more than 14 years in the Valley and is the founder and medical director of Arizona Vein and Laser Institute, which opened in 2004.

Kukurin Chiropractic & Acupuncture www.kcpv.info| 623.547.4727

Arizona Vein & Laser Institute www.arizonaveinandlaser.com | 602.298.5476

Dr. Maltais

Dr. Wen

Dr. Shannon Maltais is dedicated to the ongoing commitment of achieving optimal health and beauty by focusing on the whole body. Her philosophy supports the use of internal antiaging factors such as nutrition, IV therapy, homeopathy and detoxification, as well as external factors that support the correction and prevention of the aging process. She believes it is never too early or too late to begin the journey of prevention and correction via natural, safe and effective means.

Stanley Wen, MD, board certified, Family Practice Medicine, received his biology degree from the University of Chicago and his medical degree from the University of Illinois. He moved to Goodyear with his family in 2004. While working for Banner Estrella Medical Center, Dr. Wen witnessed the shortage of primary care physicians and the long waits for patients. This prompted his desire to open a family clinic and, in December 2008, Sage Health Family Medicine was born.

Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead www.physicianskinarrowhead.com | 602.843.4040

Sage Health Family Medicine www.esagehealth.com| 623.535.3857

Dr. Kim Dr. Kim has been practicing general dentistry for 12 years, including implants and cosmetic dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. He graduated from New York University with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery and completed a general practice residency at St. Barnabas Hospital. Dr. Kim has a strong passion for dentistry and caring for his patients. He believes in developing a trusting relationship with his patients and helping them feel relaxed in his care. In his free time, Dr. Kim enjoys traveling with his wife and their two children.

Litchfield Dental Care www.litchfieldentalcare.com| 623.738.3027

Dr. Serrano

Dr. Walman

Gerald B Walman, MD, FACS, FRCS(C) was born in Toronto, Canada, and obtained his MD and specialization in Ophthalmology from University of Toronto. He is a board-certified specialist in both Canada and the U.S. and has provided comprehensive eye care to Arizona since 1978. He has deep international experience in cataract, implant, Lasik and eyelid cosmetic surgeries and has developed a skilled team for excellence in eye care.

Walman Eye Center www.walmaneye.com | 602.222.2020

Dr. Croft

Dr. Johnny Serrano is dedicated to providing the best care possible as the General Surgeon at Precision Surgery, Inc., in Glendale. As one of the first accredited pioneering general surgeons in Robotic and robotic assisted surgery, Dr. Serrano specializes in laparoscopic or minimally invasive techniques.

He has performed over 5,000 laparoscopic surgeries.

Devin Croft graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree. He practiced for two years as a general dentist in Minnesota before entering an orthodontic residency at Temple University in Philadelphia, where he earned a master’s of science in Oral Biology and specialty certificate in Orthodontics. Dr. Croft is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Dentistry, and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He is a diplomat of the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Dentistry and is working toward his diplomat status for the American Association of Orthodontics.

Precision Surgery, Inc. www.precisionsurgeryaz.com| 602.547.3300

Vistancia Orthodontics www.vistanciaortho.com | 623.566.0800

38 January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Drs. Pamela and Gael DeRouin

Pamela DeRouin, M.D., and Gael DeRouin, D.O., are co-owners of Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery in Goodyear. Dr. Pamela DeRouin is a board-certified physician who has practiced in the Phoenix area since 1999. She has a special interest in aesthetic and anti-aging medicine and is a member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery.

Gael DeRouin is a well-accomplished surgeon with more than 20 years of training and experience. He holds dual board certifications in both Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery www.azdermacare.com| 623.535.7050

Dr. Baird

Brian O. Baird, Optometrist, has has been practicing full scope optometry for more than 10 years. Dr. Baird was born and raised in Provo, Utah, and completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University. He obtained his Doctorate of Optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. Dr.

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Baird owned and operated Polson Family Eyecare, in Polson, Mont., for seven years before selling that practice and moving to the sunny state of Arizona in November 2007. Dr. Baird has been practicing in Surprise more than two years. His hobbies include spending time with his family, running and being outdoors.

The Village Eyecare www.thevillageeyecare.com| 623.931.2943

Dr. Qiu Dr. Jack Qiu is a board certified chiropractic physician and acupuncture practitioner.

He received his training in Chinese Acupuncture and Tui Na therapeutic massage. His priority is to help his patients

Pick up a free copy monthly inside

with quality care and to reach their health goals. He has been practicing in the West Valley since November 2011.

Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network www.litchfield-park-chiropractic.com | 623.972.8400

Dr. Lundquist

Dr. Osmotherly

Wendi Lundquist is a dedicated interventional pain specialist uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat patients with musculoskeletal and nerve pain. Along with being board certified in physical medicine, rehabilitation and pain medicine, she is an osteopath that understands the complexity of pain and treatment of a patient as a whole person. Her primary focus is to treat and repair the underlying problem.

Kaila Osmotherly, O.D., FAAO, works in primary care optometry and ocular disease at the Midwestern University Eye Institute in Glendale, Arizona. She is a graduate of Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, and completed her optometric residency at the Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Dr. Osmotherly’s professional interests include glaucoma, diabetic eye care and dry eye disease.

Active Life Physical Medicine and Pain Center PLLC www.activelifepaincenter.com | 623.535.9777

Midwestern University Eye Institute www.mwuclinics.com/az/ei |623.537.6000 azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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BUSINESS TALK

Q. What can visitors expect at Wildlife Q. The unfortunate reality, most New Q. How can I help my parents be better World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in Year’s resolutions don’t last. So what do organized in 2015?

2015? we do?

A. Getting organized for a new year should A. It's no secret that 2014 was a banner A. According to Wikipedia, Leonardo DaVinci, include a review of, and updating wills and year for Wildlife World with the launch was a painter, sculptor, architect, musician, trusts. of an all-new 15-acre Safari Park. Adding scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, several new species including a pair of young anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist If your parents still have not set up a will, cheetahs, another first for Wildlife World, and writer. He conceptualized a helicopter, a now would be a good time to discuss doing may prove tough to top in 2015, but we are tank, concentrated solar power and calculator. so. It is important that you know your Relatively few of his designs were constructed parents’ wishes with regard to distribution going to try! or were even feasible during his lifetime. It of assets, but more importantly, you should First, we began this current zoo season has been said he used the SMART method to know what they want in case of a medical emergency. A living will, power of attorney, with a new and larger gauge train. At a cost bring about many of his achievements. medical power of attorney, and mental of over $1/2M, the new train is an American made replica by Chance Rides of the famous Treat your resolutions as goals and use the health care power of attorney should be established and you should know their SMART method.

C. P. Huntington locomotive. funeral/burial plans.

Next up has been an all-new outdoor sea 1.) Specific… the goal needs to be specific. lion exhibit pool with large underwater Losing weight is not specific, losing 10 Now would also be a good time to talk about what they want when they can no viewing panels, public seating area for pounds is. longer live independently. There are many educational programs, and public feeding 2.) Measurable…measure your progress. options for senior living and home care deck. This new addition named Shipwreck 3.) Attainable…make sure the goal is services that can help folks remain in their Cove, appeals to the pirate fans in everyone achievable. It must be reasonable to attain. homes. Do your research while your parents as they learn all about marine animals and 4.) Relevant…your goal must be relevant are still able to make their own decisions. both long and short term. our California Sea Lion stars.

Locate facilities in your area to visit and 5.) Time based… set a completion date, talk to home care agencies in your area In addition, it would not be the New Year when your goal will be reached. about their services. Being better organized without baby animals on exhibit and on display in the popular baby Animal Nursery. Write down your resolutions. If it is not means being prepared in case of a crisis.

So far in 2015 we've seen a young giraffe, written it is simply a dream, write it down to Simply knowing who to call for help can tapir, and several large gazelle and antelope make it a goal. Studies have shown that when ease the anxiety that comes with sudden a goal is written, the chances for success are changes in lifestyle. Sun Cities CareGivers species born, just to name a few. can provide non-medical home care from higher. two to 24 hours a day. We will send one of For those new to the Valley or just visiting Arizona, the zoo, aquarium and safari park Review your resolution daily, especially our registered nurses to do an assessment is a USDA licensed, private institution, before going to bed and upon rising in the of your needs free of charge when you are accredited by the Zoological Association of morning. This will keep it at the forefront of ready.

America (ZAA) and the Alliance of Marine your mind.

Happy New Year to all of you, from all Mammal Parks & Aquariums (AMMPA), no tax dollars have ever been spent to build Many resolutions deal with losing weight or of us at Sun Cities CareGivers! or operate Wildlife World. We are extremely improving health. Wheatgrass is a known grateful for three decades of visitor support. hunger suppressant beneficial to weight loss.

You cannot find a better health supplement than wheatgrass powder with the roots to improve your health.

– Dr. Grey Stafford – Ken & Barb Hall –Lola Judy Best Organic Wheatgrass Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Sun Cities CareGivers 1.888.260.GREEN (4733) Safari Park bestorganicwheatgrass.com wildlifeworld.com 623.974.2397

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January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Q. I just got a new pair of hearing aids Q. I’m turning 65 soon and looking

Become a community partner.

Together we can make a difference.

What are you waiting for?

James 2:26

that are Bluetooth compatible. What forward to having Medicare. Do I also need a Medicare Supplement? does that mean?

A. Bluetooth is a form of wireless signal.

Hearing aids that are Bluetooth compatible can lock into this signal because they are equipped with the appropriate receiver. This allows the wearer to perform functions such as answering their telephone or listening to their television set without having to compete with the other sounds that are present in the room.

It provides the best possible signal to noise ratio for specific listening situations and can significantly increase the quality of life for the wearer.

Bluetooth devices are usually an “add on” feature for hearing instruments and do require the wearer to install and be able to operate a few peripheral devices.

The average cost of this additional system typically goes for $350-$500 and requires very little instruction to get you started.

If you feel that you or a loved one could benefit from Bluetooth compatible hearing aid devices, contact your local hearing health care professional to get a more detailed explanation today.

Call or email today!

after we look at how Medicare benefits are provided and what the out of pocket risks actually are. Original Medicare consists of two parts.

Part A covers hospitalization and care provided in a skilled nursing facility (SNF).

In 2015, Medicare beneficiaries will be required to satisfy a $1,260 deductible when admitted to a hospital. On rare occasions, more than one deductible has been required within a 12-month period. Part A will also provide up to 100 days in a SNF after a 3day hospitalization. The first 20 days are paid in full, days 21 – 100 would require a co-payment of $155 per day equaling $12,400 if a prolonged stay was required.

Medicare will not provide coverage in a SNF after a continuous stay of 100 days.

Part B of Medicare covers “medical” expenses.

Doctor visits, tests, x-rays, outpatient procedures are all provided by Part B. After the annual deductible of $147, an additional 20 percent co-insurance is required for all services billed under Part B. It’s also important to know that original Medicare does not provide coverage for prescription drugs, commonly referred to as Part D. A Medicare Supplement policy is designed to reduce or eliminate the out of pocket costs of Medicare. I highly recommend talking with a trusted professional who will help assess your individual needs, and provide options and solutions for your health care.

602.348.9894 or

advertise@ azhealthandliving.com

A. Your question can only be answered

– Brian Emery Emery Hearing Centers State Licensed HIS 623.792.7151 www.emeryhearingcenters.com

– Tina Borges TRB Insurance Service 602.758.8998 www.trbinsurance.net azhealthandliving.com |January 2015

41

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LIFESTYLE & LIVING

“ Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.� ~Isaiah 43:18-19

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

43

FAMILY, KIDS & RELATIONSHIPS

BE AVAILABLE

By MS

How to Make Moving Easier on Children Moving can be disruptive and put added stress on all members of the family. While adults may understand the end gain of moving, children may find relocating to be particularly traumatic. With their children's routines and familiar surroundings being changed on a constant basis until the move, parents can explore some strategies to make the transition tolerable.

Inform children early on. Involve children in the

moving process from the get-go. Children need ample time to acclimate to the idea of moving, and informing them early on allows them to adjust.

Be open to questions. Children are bound to have questions about the move. Kids will likely want to know why the family has to move and what will happen to their friends and classmates? Parents can prepare for these questions and jot down answers that help kids feel more positive about the move.

Remain positive. Children take their cues from their parents, and therefore parents should try to present the move in the best light possible and be enthusiastic about the new opportunities that await their children, including the opportunity to make new friends and experience new things.

Involve kids in the packing and planning. Let the

children help with some of the tasks involved in moving.

Enable them to pack a box or two of their own belongings, particularly the items that mean the most to them. When looking at new home prospects, take into consideration their likes and dislikes about the new home or neighborhood.

Having a stake in the move can increase kids' involvement and make them more likely to embrace the move.

sale or waiting for a new home to be built. Visit the library or stores in the area prior to moving in so that these new places will seem familiar once you have moved. Introduce yourselves to new neighbors prior to moving, even letting kids play with their prospective neighbors. This way they'll have something to look forward to when it comes time to relocate.

Think about moving mid-year. When timing a move,

Stick to schedules as much as possible. Although moving can throw schedules out of whack, it helps to keep to routines as much as possible, especially when dealing with young children. Try to maintain consistent mealtimes and bedtimes. Let children have ample time to play with friends or just relax alone.

some experts believe the transition for school-aged children is easier when the move occurs while school is in session.

This enables children to meet new kids and make friends right away, rather than spending several months of summer vacation alone. Parents also benefit because they get right into a routine and can meet neighbors and friends through the acquaintances of their children.

Create new positive memories. Establish a family dining

spot in the new neighborhood when looking at homes for 44

January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Set up children's rooms first. To establish normalcy as soon as possible, focus on the children's rooms first before moving on to other areas of the home so that their private spaces can be restful and comfortable.

Tips for Raising Financially Literate Kids All Year-Round

By Gregory Downing, author of Entrepreneur Unleashed: Wealth to Stand the Test of Time

• Take your child to open bank accounts, both checking and savings. He or she needs to understand how banks operate.

• Make it clear that the savings account is sacred. It’s for real emergencies—not impulse buys. Teach them to avoid making decisions like, “I want that new skateboard and I have money in my savings account, so I’m going to go withdraw it.”

• Get your child a credit card and teach him or her how to use it. Enforce strict boundaries on how to make the card an asset rather than a liability. Too many parents assume all debt is “bad” while, in reality, businesses depend on it to operate.

• Attend a county commission or school board meeting and bring your child along.

• Help him or her set up his own budget and stick to it.

• Find ways to pay him or her for being valuable to you and your employment.

• If your children mow lawns, baby-sit or provide some other service, teach them that they must run their business like any self-employed person. Hold discussions on how to find customers, supply and demand, set prices, and how to add value so they are branded as the best in their niche.

• Show your child how deductions work when you invest.

• Teach kids healthy attitudes toward money. It is not scarce; nor is it “the root of all evil.” Money is inherently connected to how much and how well you meet the needs of others. The more you share your time, talents and expertise, the more abundantly money flows into your life. azhealthandliving.com

|January 2015 45

Home

BE PRESENT

By MS

Things to Know Before Refinancing Your Mortgage Many homeowners are finding now is a great time to refinance their mortgages. Lower interest rates and legislation aimed at helping owners whose mortgages are underwater have encouraged homeowners to take advantage of these opportunities, which might not come along again.

However, before refinancing a mortgage, it's wise for homeowners to examine their credit ratings and take the steps necessary to ensure they get the best rates possible when refinancing.

Get your credit report Many people know they can access their credit report once a year free. However, many might not know there are three agencies that keep track of your credit, and you can access reports from each one free once a year. Therefore, that's essentially three free reports per year. Homeowners who want to refinance their mortgages should stagger the reports so they don't receive all three at the same time.

This allows you to show how much progress you're making on improving your credit over the course of a year.

Spreading out your credit reports also makes it easier to address any errors that may appear. For example, if your first credit report shows an outstanding balance on a given account, then you pay off that balance that payoff should be reflected on your second report if you allow ample time between the when you place the order for your second report and the payoff. If the second report does not reflect up-to-date activity, consult the credit-reporting agency and have the issue corrected.

Stop paying bills late If you routinely pay your bills late, especially credit card bills, then you almost certainly will not get the lowest interest rate when refinancing your mortgage. Make all credit card, utilities, and installment loan payments on time. Once you've established a lengthy pattern of paying bills on time, then that might be a good time to visit your bank and discuss refinancing your mortgage.

46 January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Many homeowners are taking advantage of lower interest rates, and refinancing their mortgages.

However, before doing so they should repair their credit, and determine if refinancing is truly for them.

Don't open new accounts If you have a bad credit history, don't open any new accounts, especially if you still have outstanding balances on existing accounts. Pay existing accounts down completely before you even consider opening a new account. Once balances are paid in full, then you might shop around for a new credit card. Many people with high outstanding balances have high annual percentage rates, so once you have paid down balances on those cards, you'll be in a better position to apply for a card with a lower APR.

Refinancing process First, don't expect the process to be free. The Federal Reserve notes that it's not unusual for homeowners to pay anywhere from 3 percent to 6 percent of their outstanding principal in refinancing fees. Fees vary depending on where an applicant lives, but you should expect to pay an application fee, a loan origination fee, and points. Points are a percentage of your mortgage loan, and there are two kinds you might have to pay. Loan-discount points are a one-time fee that you're paying to reduce your existing loan's interest rate. Some lenders also charge points to earn money on the loan. You likely paid points on your initial loan, but points when refinancing aren't necessarily fully deductible like they were the first time around. Additional fees can include an appraisal fee, inspection fee, closing fee, and other fees that, when added up, can cost homeowners a substantial amount of money.

No-cost refinancing No-cost refinancing is a bit of a misnomer, as you might not pay closing costs if yours is a no-cost refinancing, but you will avoid those costs at the expense of a higher interest rate on the remainder of the new loan. Since many homeowners refinance their mortgage specifically to lower their interest rates, no-cost refinancing might not be in their best interests.

In some instances, no-cost refinancing may simply include the aforementioned fees in the new loan. This means the fees are added to your loan's principal. You will be repaying them with interest over the life of the loan. In such instances, many homeowners simply prefer to pay the refinancing fees upfront, but that's a decision for each individual to make.

Many homeowners are taking advantage of lower interest rates, and refinancing their mortgages. However, before doing so homeowners should repair their credit, and determine if refinancing is truly for them. azhealthandliving.com |January 2015

47

FITNESS, NUTRITION & SPORTS

STAY ACTIVE & FIT

By MS

Why You Should Skip Crunches & Try These Top 5 Core Moves Abdominal crunches have long been a staple of many people's workouts. However, situps and crunches have never been the optimal exercises for developing strong abdominals. Each exercise requires more strength from the front of the abdomen than the side oblique muscles.

This can cause a strength imbalance that may lead to back problems down the road. According to research from San Diego State University, the traditional crunch is the least effective way to strengthen the rectus abdominis as well as the obliques.

Many people do not adhere to proper form when doing crunches. Performing crunches in an unsafe manner may lead to more than a few sore muscles, as it's easy to slip a disc in the spine or pull muscles that result in problems that may not show up immediately. Crunches also can reinforce bad habits that can result in poor posture.

Crunches may be one way to sculpt impressive abs, but they may not be so effective at targeting the inner abdominal muscles that really lead to a strong core. It's important to do exercises that also will target the transversus abdominis muscle, the innermost flat muscles of the abdomen. Here are five effective exercises for working the core muscles without causing the back strain associated with crunches.

Planks Planks help stabilize the core and require more muscle activation in the obliques than traditional crunches.

Practicing this position also can help lower the risk of lower back pain because it targets the abdominals while putting no pressure on the spine. To perform a plank, hold your body in a pushup position while resting on bent forearms. Hold your body in a straight line and pull in your stomach to create tension in the midsection.

Keep the plank position for as long as possible. Vary the regular plank with side planks to target obliques.

48

January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Leg raises Leg raises isolate various ab muscles. You can raise legs only a few inches off the ground and hold or alternately lift the legs to a 90-degree angle and slowly lower.

Experiment with different variations of leg raises, such as scissoring or rotating the feet, for even more resistance.

Vertical crunches Instead of lying on the floor to perform crunches, hang from your arms or hands on a pull-up bar to take pressure off the spine. Get into the hanging position and then draw your knees up into the chest. Lower knees and repeat. An alternative is to lift the legs with legs extended instead of knees bent.

Dragon flags A dragon flag is essentially a leg lift in reverse. Made popular by martial arts master Bruce Lee, dragon flags start with men and women lying on a bench or the floor where they can grab onto something near their heads.

Keep your shoulders and back planted to the bench.

Slowly lift your legs in the air and then lower back down. Dragon flags require time and conditioning to master but can effectively sculpt abdominal muscles.

Top 7 Winter Superfoods

By MS

Illnesses seem to peak during the winter months. It's important that men, women and children take every step possible to ward off sickness when the temperatures drop.

Dietary changes can make a world of difference, and more and more people are including these proven superfoods in their winter diets.

Avocado Avocado has high levels of essential fatty acids and vitamin B-6, which is important in the biosynthesis of important neurotransmitters. Foods high in B vitamins may be able to counteract some of the symptoms of winter-related depression.

Pomegranate This quirky fruit has vitamins C and K, folate and potassium and is a good source of fiber. Pomegranate has antiinflammatory properties, which can help in reducing joint pain and preventing strokes. Pomegranate may also help the body fight viruses.

Cinnamon Cinnamon has high levels of antioxidants, and some studies point to cinnamon as a natural antibacterial agent. Cinnamon also can help regulate blood-glucose levels, which is beneficial for those with diabetes.

Prunes Now widely referred to as "dried plums," prunes are an important source of boron, which could prevent osteoporosis.

High in antioxidants, prunes help the body fight a variety of illnesses.

Cabbage Cabbage may be a key element in the fight against cancer.

Cabbage has phytochemicals that can protect the body against cancer-causing free radicals. It's also a good source of dietary fiber, which can stimulate a sluggish digestive system.

Butternut squash This food is packed with carotenoids, which are stellar antioxidants. The starches in this squash also have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. azhealthandliving.com |January 2015

49

STAY ACTIVE & FIT

FITNESS, NUTRITION & SPORTS

By Joe Veilleux, president of Euromed USA and a registered pharmacist

Natural Supplements

When cheap can be bad for your health In recent years, U.S. dogs and cats died from eating pet food made with melamine, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers to throw away certain toothpastes because of the risk they included an antifreeze ingredient.

The problem is manufacturers, distributors and consumers alike are attracted to inexpensive goods, and in other countries, things can be produced cheaply in part because there are fewer regulations regarding quality control.

Those who buy all natural nutritional supplements need should not buy the cheapest products available. If the ingredients in them are not subject to regulatory oversight, they can be dangerous.

The active ingredients in many natural supplements are botanicals – extracts from herbs and other medicinal plants.

Some of the dangerous potential problems that can occur without rigorous quality control include:

Contamination by pesticides and other heavy metals Exposure to these contaminants can be hazardous to humans and can be present if growing conditions and plant materials are not carefully monitored. Manufacturers who aren’t held to government standards may not even check for contamination.

Radiation exposure The ground the plants are grown in may have radiation, which is absorbed by the plants. This is another contaminant for which regulated manufacturers carefully test.

Species misidentification Slightly different varieties of a plant may have vastly different properties. Black cohosh, for example, is a member of the buttercup family and is used to treat menopause symptoms like hot flashes. Some varieties of the genus Actaea may look similar to Actaea racemosa, but they do not have the same effect and can be harmful.

While price can be a red flag for consumers, surprisingly, one sign that a product meets high quality standards is if it comes from a company that incorporates environmental sustainability practices.

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Those who buy all natural nutritional supplements should not buy the cheapest products available. If the ingredients in them are not subject to regulatory oversight, they can be dangerous.

A company that’s making an effort to address issues such as sustainability is farther along in the evolutionary process.

A company’s first mission will be to provide the best quality of product it can. Once it has achieved that, it looks to improve in other ways, including sustainability, reducing its impact on the environment and social responsibility.

However, it can’t get to step two until it has mastered step one.

A reliable sign that a company is serious about “green” issues is if it has earned ISO 14001 certification.

ISO stands for International Standardization Organization.

Its criteria can be applied and measured uniformly in countries around the world. Therefore, whether a company is in China or the United States, if it has ISO 14001 certification, you can be assured it takes sustainability and environmental issues seriously.

Another way to safeguard yourself is to buy products from major U.S. brands.

The big brands have a lot to lose, so they’re not as likely to take chances by obtaining their ingredients from unregulated sources. Having their products blamed for a public health crisis would be disastrous to them.

The Dangers of Belly Fat

By MS

Doctors use many different methods to assess their patients' health. Measuring the fat in a person's midsection is one indicator physicians may rely on more heavily in the future, as they look to pinpoint potential health risks before they become something more serious.

Belly fat is much more than an eyesore, as it poses a serious health risk doctors are only just beginning to understand. A recent study on belly fat presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress confirmed that belly fat is far more dangerous than many people think.

That's because a large stomach may not only be comprised of subcutaneous fat, or the fat contained under the skin.

Very often visceral fat, or the type of fat that surrounds internal organs, is a contributing factor to girth around the midsection. Visceral fat, also known as intra-abdominal fat, is linked to a variety of health problems, including high triglycerides, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar.

Every person has some amount of belly fat, even those with relatively flat abdominals Visceral fat provides cushioning around the organs and is actually beneficial in small amounts. It's when visceral fat becomes too plentiful that it can pose a problem.

According to Kristen Hairston, MD, an assistant professor of endocrinology and metabolism at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, visceral fat doesn't just sit dormant; it plays an active role in the body's production of a number of potentially harmful substances. Researchers are studying if visceral fat secretes inflammatory molecules in higher amounts than other types of fat. These molecules can contribute to various health ailments.

A person's ideal weight is not necessarily based on pounds on the scale Rather, individuals should use other measurements to determine propensity for belly fat. Having a "pear shape" where the hips and thighs are larger than the waist can actually be safer than an "apple shape," where the waistline is larger.

People concerned about belly fat should use a measuring tape to measure girth and determine if there is a potential

It's important to note that belly fat is not a problem exclusive to those who are overweight. Although it may not be as visible, thin people can have excess visceral fat as well. problem. Place the measuring tape around the waist at the navel. The measuring tape should be level and stretch around the midsection. Women want a waist measurement of less than 35 inches. Men should measure in at less than 40 inches.

Measurements that exceed those figures may indicate excessive amounts of visceral fat. A hip-to-waist ratio measurement also can be used. This ratio should be below 0.85 for women and below 0.90 for men. Anything higher is considered "at risk," and a person should consider losing belly fat.

There are ways to manage and reduce belly fat. Getting adequate exercise in conjunction with eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and managing stress can help. azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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Celebrity

ENJOY LIFE

By Michelle Talsma Everson

Cate Blanchett

An Icon on Screen and Stage There are not many actresses who can say they’ve reached the heights of success in both the movie industry and live theater. But, 45-years-young Australian-born actress Cate Blanchett has been mystifying audiences in roles on both screen and stage for decades. With the Lord of The Rings Trilogy behind her and Cinderella – where she plays the Wicked Stepmother – opening in theaters this March, Blanchett shows no signs of stopping.

Last month, Blanchett sat down with Australia’s The Daily Telegraph to talk about life after The Hobbit – the internationally acclaimed movie series where she played elf queen Galadriel.

“It’s a bit sad to be honest,” she tells The Daily Telegraph about the movie series ending. “This has been a wonderful chapter in my life and to come back after Lord of the Rings to do the Hobbit and for this to turn into another three films has been an unexpected joy… So to be able to go back and play a character I love so much all over again has been an absolute pleasure.”

Blanchett has won a variety of awards throughout her career, including two Oscars. Onstage, she’s starred in everything from Hamlet to A Streetcar Named Desire. She, along with her husband, were co-CEOs and artistic directors of the Sydney Theatre Company for years. Even so, from her many recent media appearances, all signs point to the fact that she remains down to earth and humble about her roots.

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“I’m a product of the Australian film industry which by its very nature is independent, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse,” she explains when asked by The Daily Telegraph about her preference for independent versus big budget films. “I suppose the collaborative nature of being independent feels natural to me and when people talk to me about working in Hollywood I don’t quite know what that means. Being part of big movies like this feel like more of a departure for me. In the end I think the whole notion is not about how a film is financed, it’s actually about the creative thinking behind it.”

While she may feel more at home on independent film sets, audiences will get to see her in another big budget film this spring-Disney’s remake of Cinderella.

“Oozing beautiful wickedness, the Australian actress, who sports perfectly coiffed auburn locks and a retro 1940s style wardrobe, brilliantly encapsulates the nefarious character,” describes Australia’s The Daily Mail of Blanchett’s character. Blanchett is also slated to reprise her voice role in How to Train Your Dragon 3 in 2017 in addition to several other projects that are in the works.

Added to her continuously busy acting career, Blanchett is known for her outspoken support of many issues that are close to her heart. According to many media sources, she’s best known for her thoughts on feminism, politics and supporting sustainability – especially in the fashion industry. As if all of that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, she is also a wife and busy mom to three boys.

When asked by The Daily Telegraph if she enjoyed being a mother, her response was very telling of her priorities: “Very much,” she tells the publication. “There’s nothing in the world that makes me happier than being with my kids. I could give this all up tomorrow to spend the rest of my life looking after my family.”

To learn more about Blanchett’s highly anticipated role in Cinderella – which opens in theaters in mid-March – visit disney.com/cinderella. azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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PLAN & SAVE

career, business & Finance

By Rick Rodgers, author of The New Three-Legged Stool: A Tax Efficient Approach To Retirement Planning

Financial Fitness Tips for 2015 The New Year is a great time to get pointed in the right direction financially. Making small improvements at the beginning of the year is a lot easier than trying to play catch-up. Just as you would embark on an exercise program for losing weight and to get physically fit, there are, simple steps you can take that will lead to being financially healthy and fit. Here are seven tips for improving your financial life in 2015.

Review your credit report Borrowing money isn’t the only reason to check your credit. Employers check credit reports and so do insurance companies. Your credit score can have a profound effect on the amount you pay for auto and homeowners insurance and perhaps on health and life insurance in the not-toodistant future.

Set up an Automatic Savings Plan (ASP) If your employer doesn’t offer this through payroll deduction, you can set one up through your bank or brokerage account. Simply have a certain amount of money withdrawn from your checking or savings account each month and deposited into your investment account.

That way, you save it before you ever have a chance to spend it. Try to increase the amount you invest at least once a year.

Establish a cash flow plan Business owners know you can’t control what you don’t track. Take the time to forecast your income and expenses for the year, and put it in writing. Then adjust those numbers to reach your goals, such as paying down debt or replacing a car. Track your progress on a regular basis by holding a monthly family finance meeting to review the plan.

Pay off your credit cards Cash doesn’t earn much interest sitting in a deposit account (less than 1 percent) and even “low interest” credit cards charge 10 to 12 percent. So if you're sitting on any extra savings, consider using it to pay down credit card debt. Your cash flow plan should include a schedule to eliminate credit card debt as quickly as possible.

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Shop your insurance Insurance agents are often paid commission based on premium levels, so they have no incentive for finding existing customers lower premiums. However, there is a huge incentive for a competing agent to find you the lowest premium in order to win your business. Make note of the coverage levels you have for your homeowner’s and auto policies and use them to comparison shop. Look at ways to save on your health insurance coverage, too, such as switching to a high-deductible plan and opening a Health Savings Account.

Write an estate plan At a minimum, you need to have a valid will, power-ofattorney (POA) for your finances and health care decisions, and a living will (Advanced Healthcare Directive in some states). Decide who will be your personal representative in the event you become incapacitated (POA) or at your death (executor). If you have minor children, choose who will raise them in your absence and establish a testamentary trust for their finances.

Meet with a financial adviser Good advisers will help you develop a budget, look at your debts, tax situation, retirement and college savings, estate planning and insurance. You don’t have to be a high-networth individual to seek the assistance of a financial adviser.

Things to Consider for Your Business in 2015

By Chris Hurn, author of The Entrepreneur’s Secret to Creating Wealth: How the Smartest Business Owners Build Their Fortunes

Almost on a daily basis, news reports detail the marketplace factors that can affect businesses large and small. No matter what the potentially game-changing info coming out of Washington, D.C., or China, though, there are winning strategies that not only endure but also should be part of every workplace’s culture With some merit, analysts are always reviewing contingencies that may change investments by businesses, most recently, the ‘fiscal cliff.’ But there are many ways to invest in your own business regardless of the economic climate.

Here are five things business owners and entrepreneurs should consider making in 2015 for the most positively transformative year.

Consider buying After a business survives three to six years and is stable, commercial property ownership is a natural next step with benefits that new entrepreneurs often overlook. Ownership is a path to more stability and long-term wealth, and the government program administered by the Small Business Administration – SBA 504 – offers long-term financing at below-market fixed rates.

Self-investment Often in business, one measure of strength reflects your strength of character, so invest in yourself! Identify business books that focus on areas you need to develop or lessons shared by successful business people you admire. Commit to reading at least one per month.

Company culture Your company’s culture has a lot to do with your success.

Come up with three ideas that will improve your company’s culture and take action on them. Improved health, the most universal resolution, can have a profoundly positive impact on the workplace, from boosting morale to increasing productivity.

Refresh/jump-start marketing Identify three new marketing initiatives that you can implement on a regular and ongoing basis. Start small and track which ideas seem to have teeth. Remember — repetition and consistency are keys here.

Become an authority in your field Research publications in your industry and pitch yourself as a media source. This can net you some free PR later in the year. The key is to focus on media outlets – become a familiar name so they can turn to you as a reliable source.

You have to convince contacts that you know your stuff and that you’re available to comment when there’s news to report. If you simply don’t have time for this, consider investing in a reasonably-priced PR firm. azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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career, business & Finance

PLAN & SAVE

By MS

Tips for Building a Successful Freelance Career Office workers and other professionals with 9-to-5 jobs often dream of leaving the office behind and pursuing a freelance career of their choice. While many have succeeded at freelance work, many have failed, discovering along the way that perhaps the security and steady paycheck of their office jobs wasn't so bad after all.

There are several ways to make a freelance career less like jumping out of a plane with no parachute and more like a calculated move that's both fulfilling and financially successful.

As the old saying goes, "Don't quit your day job" Perhaps nothing is more important when making the transition to freelance work than keeping a day job. The steady paycheck can help freelancers maintain financial flexibility while providing an income source that can help promote a new career path. Initially, many people have difficulty establishing themselves as freelancers. However, maintaining a steady income can make that initial difficulty easier to survive.

Don't put all your eggs into the freelance basket While it's important for prospective freelancers to devote the time and effort necessary to make their new venture a success, it's important to maintain balance as well. For example, prospective freelancers often feel they must invest in the latest technology or build a home office.

Allow for some success first, then gradually upgrade any old gear or build that home office. Use the proceeds from successful freelancing jobs to make these upgrades, just as successful businesses do when investing profits back into their business.

Get online Perhaps nothing could be a better friend to a prospective freelancer than a good website. Potential clients can visit a website with one click of the mouse. The website should look professional, but individuals can decide if the tone will be formal or casual and what their particular website will focus on. Include any relevant work from the past as well as a resume and mission statement to make sure prospective clients get a feel for who it is they are considering hiring.

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Don't get obsessed with rates While all freelancers have, an idea in mind of what their work is worth, beginners should value experience over financial gain. Though not all jobs are worth taking, beginners must realize that a freelancer's success relies heavily on word-of-mouth and the size of their portfolio.

Initially, it helps to dwell less on the money and more on the value of gaining that necessary experience.

Look into a new telephone plan These days, it's not a given that every household has a landline. However, freelancers should use a landline as their primary contact number for prospective clients.

Landline calls rarely get dropped, which can occasionally happen when speaking on a cellular phone and clients might be turned off when interviewing someone whose phone keeps dying. When signing up for a landline, purchase voicemail service that can be checked via a cellphone to ensure any urgent calls can be retrieved instantly or while away from home.

Monitor social media Be careful when posting any personal information online, as more and more employers are monitoring social networking sites to see what current employees and even new applicants are doing. Social media should be used to a freelancer's advantage, not to his or her detriment.

Stay patient Even the most successful freelancers can go long stretches of time without working. While that might seem heavenly to the average professional, it can be grueling to a freelancer.

Remember to stay patient because work rarely comes flooding in for freelancers, regardless of their experience.

That patience should also be extended to clients. Every successful freelancer has a horror story or two about an especially aggravating client. While it can be tempting to walk away from such a client, the damage done to a freelancer's reputation when quitting a particular job may prove irreversible.

Seek testimonials Few things can be more beneficial to freelancers than a good reputation. Whenever a project is finished and the client is satisfied, ask them how the process went. Ask clients to fill out a quick survey that asks them about what they liked and disliked about the process. The former can be used to lure future clients, while the latter will illustrate that a freelancer wants to improve his or her service in any way possible. If clients agree, post positive testimonials on the website to illustrate any successes to future clients.

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

57

PLAN & SAVE

career, business & Finance

By Mike Finley, self-made millionaire and author of Financial Happine$$

Top 10 Ways People Go Broke Common mistakes to avoid

You don’t have to come from a wealthy family, have the next billion-dollar idea or work 18-hour days to become rich.

You don’t have to be extraordinary in any of the headlinegrabbing ways; what you need is the self-awareness to avoid wasting money on short-term, retail-priced happiness.

Money used wisely can give you the financial security associated with the good life. Here are 10 common money traps that lead to consumers going broke.

Make the appearance of wealth one of your top priorities by acquiring more stuff The material trappings of a faux lifestyle, as seen in magazines and advertisements, are not good investments either financially or in long-term happiness.

Work a job you hate, and spend your free time buying happiness Instead, find fulfilling work Monday through Friday so you’re not compensating for your misery with expensive habits during the weekend.

Live paycheck to paycheck and don’t worry about saving money Live for today that’s all that matters. Have you already achieved all of your dreams by this moment? If not, embrace hope and plan for tomorrow. (Appreciating your life today doesn’t require unnecessary expenditures.)

Paying interest on stuff you really don’t need is a tragic waste of money.

When you come into some free money, spend it, you deserve it By that logic, you’re saying that a future version of you doesn’t deserve the money, which can be multiplied with wise investments.

Buy the biggest wedding and the biggest ring so everyone can see just how fabulous you really are Nothing says, “Let’s start our future together” like blowing your entire savings on one evening.

Stop your education when someone hands you a diploma; never read a book on personal finance

Treat those “amazing” celebrities and “successful” athletes as role models

Just about any expert will tell you that the most reliable way out of poverty is education. Diplomas shouldn’t be the end of learning; they should be a milestone in a lifetime of acquiring wisdom.

Try to be just like them whenever possible. As far as we know, there’s only one you the universe has ever known.

Don’t dilute your unique individuality by chasing an image.

Play the lottery as often as possible While you’re at it, hit the casino! Magical thinking, especially when it comes to money, is a dangerous way to seek financial security.

Run up your credit cards and make the minimum payments whenever possible 58

January 2015 | azhealthandliving.com

Blame others for your problems in life Repeat: I am a victim. The victim mentality is an attempt to rationalize poor habits and bad decision-making.

If you’re feeling uncomfortable with your financial situation, don’t just sit there in a malaise of ‘If only I had more money’. Instead, use it as motivation for a better life; that’s why the discomfort is there.

SENIOR LIVING

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.� ~Psalm 51:10-12

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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aging well

STAY HEALTHY

By Rodger Friedman, founding partner/wealth manager at Steward Partners Global Advisory, and author of Forging Bonds of Steel

Three Tips for Retiring Out of State Retirees flock to Florida and Arizona for year-round sunshine and golf, but all things considered they’re not, the best states for happy golden years, according to a new survey.

Along with average number of sunny days, factor in cost of living, residents’ sense of well-being, quality of health care, crime and, yes, humidity, and the best destination is (surprise!) South Dakota, according to a 2014 Bankrate report. As this report correctly suggests, pre-retirees need to consider a lot more than snow days and tradition.

Different states have different tax laws and other regulations that can have a major impact on your retirement funds.

You need to be aware of these as you plan for where you want to live and how you want to live.

Whether or not you’re considering one of the other top four “best states to retire” – Colorado, Utah, North Dakota, and Wyoming, in that order – here are three tips for planning.

New state — new income tax rules. Get to know them!

Familiarize yourself with the tax laws of the state you’re considering for your new home. Two of the top five on Bankrate’s list – South Dakota and Wyoming – have no state income tax, along with five others: Nevada (No. 18 on the list), Texas (19), Washington (22), Florida (39), and Alaska (48).

In addition, an itemized deduction in one state may not be an itemized deduction in another. If you use the long form (1040) to file federal income taxes, hire a reputable, experienced CPA for guidance.

Look into how your new state taxes retirement income.

States differ on taxing interest income from tax-free municipal bonds.

Some states give tax credits for pensions; treat public and private pensions differently; or offer federal, military or blanket exclusions.

If you’re married, are you moving to a community property state?

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There are nine community property states – those that divide all martially acquired assets and debt 50:50 in the event of divorce. (Exceptions include an inheritance or gift received by one spouse and maintained separately in that spouse’s name.) Community property states are Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, California, Arizona, Wisconsin, Nevada, Louisiana, and Washington. Consulting with an estate-planning attorney regarding how this issue may affect you may be money very well spent.

Have a lawyer review your estate planning documents A lawyer in your new state of residence should review your existing estate planning documents because statutes differ on the types of documents required and the powers bestowed upon each. For example, states are all over the map regarding the validity of a power of attorney document and the powers that may or may not be conveyed.

During their careers, their ‘acquiring wealth years,’ many people live in places that have lots of jobs – and the higher cost of living that goes along with that. In retirement, many of them want to move to a state where they can enjoy the same or an even better lifestyle with less money.

It’s essential to consider not only the cost of living but also the state laws that affect your accumulated wealth and income.

STROKES ARE THE NUMBER-THREE KILLER

IN THIS COUNTRY, YET MANY PEOPLE DON’T EVEN

KNOW WHAT THEY ARE. THEY DON’T KNOW THAT MORE

OF THE BRAIN CAN BE SAVED IF A STROKE IS DETECTED AND

TREATMENT IS RECEIVED IMMEDIATELY. STROKES BEGIN WHEN A

W I T H A S T R O K E , T I M E L O S T I S B R A I N L O S T. BLOOD VESSEL IN THE BRAIN BECOMES BLOCKED OR BURSTS. BLOOD FLOW

IS CUT OFF. TISSUE IS STARVED FOR OXYGEN, AND PARTS OF THE BRAIN DIE.

IF NOT TREATED QUICKLY, ABILITIES AND PRODUCTIVE LIFE CAN BE

LOST. YOUR BRAIN IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION.

GUARD IT WITH YOUR LIFE.

If you suddenly have or see any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately: Numbness or weakness of the face, ar m or leg, especially on one side of the body • Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Difficul ty seeing in one or both eyes • Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination • Severe headache with no known cause

Learn more at StrokeAssociation.org or 1-888-4-STROKE.

©2013 American Heart Association Made possible in part by a generous grant from The Bugher Foundation.

aging well

STAY HEALTHY

By MS

Glaucoma Typically Does Not Show Early Warning Signs As the human body ages, certain things might not work as well as they used to. Though no two individuals are the same, there are certain things people expect to deal with as they age.

Changes in vision are one thing many people associate with aging. Some people maintain perfect vision throughout their lives, while others' vision deteriorates and conditions begin to develop. Though not exclusive to the elderly, glaucoma is one such condition many seniors must deal with. However, even though risk for glaucoma increases as a person ages that doesn't mean younger men and women should not familiarize themselves with this condition and learn its symptoms and characteristics. In fact, glaucoma can be present for years before it's recognized. This only further highlights the importance of understanding this condition so, should it appear, it can be effectively treated as soon as possible.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a term used to refer to a group of conditions that can cause damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is responsible for carrying visual information from the eye to the brain, and oftentimes optic nerve damage is a result of increased pressure in the eye. In the United States, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness.

What causes high IOP? The eye produces a fluid called the aqueous humor, which is used to bathe and nourish the various parts of the eye.

This fluid typically flows out of the eye through channels in the front of the eye in an area called the anterior chamber angle. When the flow of the aqueous humor is blocked or slowed, the fluid is trapped in the eye and then IOP builds, at which point damage to the optic nerve can occur.

Are all cases of glaucoma the same?

Not all cases of glaucoma are the same. In fact, there are four major types of glaucoma.

What role does intraocular pressure play?

Open-angle, or chronic, glaucoma

The eyes are filled with fluids that help maintain pressure in the eye. That pressure is called intraocular pressure, or IOP. IOP is not a bad thing, but high IOP is a risk factor for glaucoma. Measuring IOP is fairly easy. Doctors will use a tonometer to measure IOP, but men and women should know that normal IOP does not necessarily mean a person does not have glaucoma, nor does high IOP mean a person does have glaucoma. While high IOP is a risk factor for glaucoma and controlling IOP is a focus of glaucoma therapy, there is more to diagnosing and treating glaucoma than just focusing on IOP.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma.

The cause is unknown, but an increase in eye pressure occurs slowly over time as the pressure starts to push on the optic nerve and the retina at the back of the eye. This type of glaucoma tends to run in families, so men, and women who have a parent or grandparent who has had open-angle glaucoma should not miss appointments with his or her eye doctor, even if vision seems normal. This is especially important because most people with open-angle glaucoma have no symptoms until they begin to lose vision, though gradual loss of peripheral vision may occur.

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Angle-closure, or acute, glaucoma Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the aqueous humor is suddenly blocked. This is very noticeable, as it causes instant and severe pain as the IOP quickly increases. Risk for angle-closure glaucoma increases for those who have already had it one eye. Symptoms include decreased or cloudy vision, nausea and vomiting, seeing rainbow-like halos around lights, and reddening of the eye.

Congenital glaucoma Congenital glaucoma is present at birth and results from an abnormal development of the fluid outflow channels in the eye. Symptoms are typically noticed when the child is a few months old. These can include cloudiness of the front of the eye, enlargement of one or both eyes, sensitivity to light, tearing and reddening of the eye.

Change Your Thoughts.

Change Your Words.

Change Your World.

Secondary glaucoma Sponsored by

Secondary glaucoma results from other conditions, including uveitis, a condition where the middle layer of the eye, known as the uvea, swells and causes irritation. Secondary glaucoma can also result from systemic diseases and drugs such as corticosteroids.

azhealthandliving.com | January 2015

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If an adult suddenly collapses, perform Hands-OnlyTM CPR. Call 911

then push hard and fast

in the center of the chest.

Hands can do incredible things.

handsonlycpr.org

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called failure, a loop called confusion, speed bumps called friends, red lights called enemies, caution lights called family. You will have flats called jobs. But, if you have a spare called determination, an engine called perseverance, insurance called faith and a driver named Jesus—you will make it to a place called success.” – Author Unknown

For with God nothing will be impossible.

Luke 1:37

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