B Well Magazine May 2014 by Bakersfield Wellness Magazine

WOMEN'S HEALTH ISSUE • BAKERSFIELD MOM'S JOURNEY THROUGH GENETIC TESTING

• TIPS TO LOSE WEIGHT NATURALLY • HOW TO CARE FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN

GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDER

CARRIE SWIDECKI'S

GET TO KNOW

LOCAL SINGER & MENTOR AMY ADAMS

QUEST TO FIGHT OBESITY WITH EXERGAMING PAGE 24 d

MAY 2014

page 22

TAKE CHARGE

OF ALLERGY SEASON page 31

WORKOUT MOVES FOR MOMS ON THE GO page 43

Find us online

bwellmagazine.com

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twitter.com/BWellMag

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anything you “You can be you set your if , be to nt wa heart to it.”

“Growing up, my mom tau ght me to always be honest and independent, respect my elders, never leave home without saying ‘I love you ,’ and, most importantly, do what makes me happy.”

“Drink a glass of water, my mother’s cure for any ailment. She also taught me, by example, to be brave, take chances and work hard in whatever you do to make life better for the people around you.”

“You can d want to o anything you And, don do. Dream big! 't fo a lot alon rget to laugh g the wa y."

“Always be open to love, always be yourself, and always remember to work hard today, so that you can play tomorrow.”

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

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From the

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ne of the most common dilemmas I hear is that many women are so busy excelling at their job, trying to be the best wife, mother or daughter, and supporting our friends and family at the drop of a hat, that we fail to think about ourselves, specifically our health. It’s time for a change. As someone who’s gotten to know her doctor and medical staff pretty well, I can say that if we want to continue to succeed in all that we do, we need to take care of our minds, bodies and souls first. That’s why, our team is happy to introduce the women’s health edition. This issue features a number of articles focused on women’s health, many on the preventative aspects of our health. One feature focuses on Sofie Zimmermann's story of genetic testing. Read about a brave friend’s decision to undergo intense surgeries so that she can be around to watch her children grow up. Aside from women’s health, we provide you with tips on how to manage allergies (I learned some new tactics to manage my annual allergy struggles!) and ways to maintain healthy skin without spending loads of money. We asked a number of local health and medical experts to share their advice and tips.

ia, is seen Joaquin, the son of editor Olivia Garc a. Ninj pet, ly fami with here

And on the lighter side, please consider entering our Cutest Family Photo Contest , which may include your pets. See below for more details.

Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 ogarcia@bakersfield.com

Cutest Family Photo Contest

B Well Mag wants to see our readers' cutest family photos — that includes your pets, too! Email us one of your best pictures along with a caption and contact information to bwell@bakersfield.com with the subject line: Cutest Family Photo. We’ll pick one lucky winner at random to receive a family portrait from our photographer April Massirio, owner of The Nest Photography + Design. Deadline: June 2. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Only one entry per person, please. Your photo will appear in our next issue.

WIN u!

Family Portrait Session

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

insidemay2014 Volume 3 Issue 2

Women's Health · Allergy Issue

REGULARS HEALTHY BITES

OUT & ABOUT

52 Healthy Indulgence · Honey recipes

10 B Connected · Quest Imaging,

Tony Horton, The Beltone First, Pet Health, Make It Happen & more 16 Save the Date · Events happening around town

54 Fit Foodies · Coconut Joe's 56 Chew On This · Cucumbers

WELLNESS & WONDER

18 B Enriched · Explore new

58 Real Success Stories · Greenfield

ways to get more out of life

22 Get to Know · Singer & mentor

Walking Group

62 Your Body · Fun-to-know

Amy Adams of Garden Pathways

facts about veins

YOUR HEALTH

64 What Happens When · Getting tested for allergies

32 Defying the Odds · Heart

You might be a Candidate for Dental Sleep Apnea Treatment If you have a CPAP, but are not using it because of discomfort, a dental appliance may be a more comfortable alternative to your CPAP. Dr. Armstrong has special training in dealing with sleep apnea and can fit you with a dental appliance that prevents snoring and breathing problems associated with sleep apnea. It’s easy to wear and is so small it fits in the palm of your hand. Call us about our Dental Sleep Apnea treatment at (661) 631-5580.

transplant survivor Adonis Watts

66 Life’s Questions Answered · Non-invasive ways to get beach body ready

36 Health Apps · 9 apps to

lead you to a healthier lifestyle

68 Gardening · Sprucing up your summer garden

38 Health Watch · Local

doctors answer 3 health questions

CREATING AWARENESS 70 Some Kind of Wonderful ·

39 Smart Health News · Health

Velvet Ranjel practices human kindnesss

facts and statistics for women

40 Holistic Health · Do we need

71 B the Cause · Spotlight on

vitamins & supplements?

Stroke Survivor Support Group

GET FIT

LAST LOOK

42 Fab Finds · Fabulous finds

72 B Seen · See who’s been

around town

spotted on the local scene

43 Workout Moves · Perfect for

78 Life & Happiness · The Art

moms on the go

46 Diet Diary · Update on B Well‘s Get Fit Weight-Loss Challenge candidates Reggan & Brandon

of Nothing

50 Golf · Golfing tips by instructor Jacque Servadio

on the cover

DR. THOMAS ARMSTRONG Bakersfield’s Leader in Dental Sleep Apnea and Snoring Solutions

2100 18th Street 661-631-5580 www.bakersfieldsmiles.com 8

B Well Magazine · May 2014

22 Get To Know 31 Allergies 43 Workout for Moms 24 Carrie Swidecki 25 Women's Specials Cover Photo · Carrie Swidecki Photographed by April Massirio

07 Ed Note 09 Contributors 20 Quiz Expert Connect Articles: 19 Dr. Vin T. Dang of Empire Eye & Laser Center 35 Ally Senior Care 41 Desired Beauty Surgical & Medical Center 51 Achilles Prosthetics & Orthotics 63 South Valley Vein Center

contributors PAULA ARDRON, MD, FAAAI

pg. 52

pg. 43

Dr. Paula Ardron was born in Los Angeles and grew up in South Pasadena. She went into medicine because of her love of science, her people skills and her desire to provide people with options to improve their health. Dr. Ardron is an allergist and immunologist and has been part of Kaiser Permanente in Kern County for almost 20 years. In 1996, she was given the honor of developing the Allergy and Immunology Department in Kern County for Kaiser Permanente. She is currently the chief of the Allergy and Immunology Department.

TOMMY LEE, MD Dr. Tommy Lee is the Medical Director of Cardiology at Memorial Hospital. He received his undergraduate degree from Stanford University and his medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. He was one of only two scholars in the United States selected to train under Dr. Geoffrey Hartzler, a world-renowned pioneer of balloon angioplasty. Dr. Lee has authored many scientific publications and is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular diseases and interventional cardiology.

pg. 11

FEATURES

KATY RAYTIS

Allergies

31 Surviving pollen season

Woman's Health

Carrie Swidecki “While chasing my dream, I lost 75 pounds, went down 10 sizes, became an advocate to fight childhood obesity & a multi Guinness World Record Holder.”

to 25 How lose weight naturally

to protect 26 Tips the skin at any age to care for 27 How acne prone skin Zimmermann's 28 Sofie genetic testing journey

Katy Raytis was born and raised in Bakersfield. She graduated from Garces High School and later attended UC Berkeley for both college and law school. In 2001, Raytis returned to Bakersfield, where she currently resides with her husband and three daughters. Raytis is a practicing attorney and a partner in the law firm of Belden Blaine, LLP. She also serves as in-house counsel for Worklogic.

TRAVIS THURMAN, DVM

Local Bakersfield native Travis Thurman earned his undergraduate degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, then went on to veterinary school at St. George’s University while completing his clinical year at Texas A&M University in 2008. He is the owner of Thurman Veterinary Center, off Rosedale Highway and Calloway Drive, which specializes in small animals as well as large animal house calls when scheduled.

KARIS TRESSEL, ND

Dr. Karis Tressel believes that regardless of your current health state, you were meant to experience deep wellness, vitality and abundant health. A licensed naturopathic doctor practicing at Sunrise Natural Medicine in downtown Bakersfield, Dr. Tressel uses natural therapies, nutritional counseling and lifestyle modification to build health and address root causes of illness. Find her at facebook.com/dr.tressel or sunrisenaturalmedicine.com.

Thank you to our contributors:

TERESA ADAMO NEAL AMMAR, MD BETTER HEARING INSTITUTE ERIC BOREN, MD, FACAAI, FAAAI GEOVER FERNANDEZ, MD KERI KEHOE-MESTMAKER NONDY LLEWELLYN, LE, COE TINA MOUSALLY, NPAC, PA-C

KATHY ROBINSON GINA ROLOW, CPT JACQUE SERVADIO DARSHAN SHAH, MD, FACS MILAN SHAH, MD SKINSATION MEDICAL AESTHETICS TONNY TANUS, MD, FACAAI, FAAAI GREGORY WILLIAMS, MD May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

out & about b connected NEW QUEST IMAGING DOWNTOWN CENTER OPENING SOON CONTRIBUTED BY TERESA ADAMO, SENIOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR AT SJCH

A second location for Quest Imaging in downtown Bakersfield, 2700 Chester Ave., is nearing completion. Staffing and supply stocking should take place some time later this year. The facility is directly across the street from San Joaquin Community Hospital (SJCH) and next door to The AIS Cancer Center.

medicine, 3 Tesla MRI, CT, 3-D Mammography, ultrasound and DEXA. Also, a new breast center will have office space on the first floor of the three-story, 60,000-square-foot building. The other floors will house additional medical offices. The imaging equipment and highly specialized software selected for Quest Imaging Downtown was chosen specifically for its ability to detect cancer. Local doctors will have the best tools to track treatment progression and, when necessary, plan surgical intervention with the highest level of accuracy possible.

This location will offer all-digital services, including X-ray, fluoroscopy, PET-CT, nuclear

Quest Imaging merged with SJCH in 2010, adding to the local health care landscape and bringing additional imaging services to the community. With the addition of this second facility in the heart of downtown Bakersfield — as part of the area’s growing medical corridor established by SJCH — the bar is raised even higher for the critical role imaging services plays in a person’s overall health and wellness. Photo by April Massirio

WE INVITE YOU TO…

TRANSFORM YOUR BODY

WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWNTIME.

JOIN US FOR A COOL EVENT AND REVEAL THE REAL

YOU.

CoolSculpting® is the non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat. No needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime. Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared, safe and clinically proven. We will develop your customized CoolSculpting treatment plan so you can say goodbye to stubborn fat!

Edmund Fisher, MD, FACS Face by Fisher Cosmetic Facial Surgery Wednesday, May 21st from 6:00 - 8:00PM 5301 Truxtun Ave., Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Edmund Fisher, FACS Space is limited. Reserve yourMD, spot today!

today: (661) 323-6200 Face byRSVP Fisher Cosmetic Facial Surgery For more information, visit www.facebyfisher.com

Wednesday, May 21st from 6:00 - 8:00PM 5301 Truxtun Ave., Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Space is limited. Reserve your spot today! BEFORE

8 WEEKS AFTER

FIRST COOLSCULPTING® TREATMENT

9 WEEKS AFTER

SECOND COOLSCULPTING® TREATMENT (No weight change)

Procedure by Edward Becker, MD Results and patient experience may vary. Ask us if CoolSculpting is right for you.

RSVP today: (661) 323-6200

For more information, visit www.facebyfisher.com

In the U.S. and Taiwan, non-invasive fat reduction is cleared only for the flank (love handle) and abdomen. CoolSculpting, the CoolSculpting logo and the Snowflake design are registered trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2013. All rights reserved. IC1393-A

B Well Magazine · May 2014

out & about b connected MADE FOR iPHONE HEARING AID PROVIDES LIFE-IMPACTING BENEFITS

With Beltone First, people with hearing loss can enjoy the best quality hearing aid while having

Patients have reported the Beltone First has an amazing sound quality that is crisp, clear and that it is comfortable and easy to use. More than 360 million people suffer from varying degrees of hearing loss, including an estimated 34 million in the United States. To learn more about this technology, call Beltone at 832-5944.

CONTRIBUTED BY TRAVIS THURMAN, DVM & OWNER OF THURMAN VETERTINARY

For dogs, the main clinical signs of heartworm disease are coughing and exercise intolerance. In cats, the clinical sign is death due to the size of the adult heartworm occluding vessels, although heartworm testing and preventative treatments are available from local veterinarians. With today’s technology, veterinarians are able to detect heartworm antigens through a simple blood test. This test is easily performed Heartworm disease is a major concern in domestic pets across via a blood draw of only a few drops and detects antigens from the country. Dogs are considthe female heartworm, which ered the definitive host for heartworm; however, numerous infects household pets. This test species may be carriers. Mosqui- only takes a couple of minutes to perform in hospitals. Keep toes are the main vectors that in mind that it is much easier to carry the infective heartworm larvae and transfer it to the host. prevent this disease rather than When an animal is infected with to treat it clinically. heartworm, it takes about five to six months for the larvae to grow It is always wise to test your pets for heartworm annually along into the adult stage. Once this with a full physical exam. For furhappens, the adults migrate to areas like the main pulmonary ar- ther information, please contact tery, lungs or associated vessels your local veterinarian for heartwhere the disease may progress. worm testing and preventatives.

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Thank You Everyone for your nominations and votes! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you as your Local Mortgage Banker for all of your Mortgage needs!

The Beltone First is a revolutionary hearing aid that offers madefor-iPhone capability to help millions of Americans with hearing loss address it through the utilization of everyday technology.

phone calls, music and other audio entertainment, as well as turnby-turn navigation, Siri, FaceTime conversations and more, wirelessly streamed directly to the wearer’s hearing aids, thanks to Bluetooth Smart technology.

CONTRIBUTED BY BETTER HEARING INSTITUTE

Beltone Electronic Corp. has launched a new hearing aid that offers direct control from an iPhone. It receives sound streamed wirelessly from an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. The future of hearing aid technology has taken health care and technology to new heights.

PET HEALTH — THE DANGERS OF HEARTWORM DISEASE

FAVORITE RE

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Visit Us At: www.agapemtgco.com

661-324-2427 5001 California Ave. Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309

Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. dba Agape Mortgage, NMLS #1788. Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

out & about b connected

READING ROOM COMPILED BY RYAN BARRERA

“Dot Complicated: Untangling Our Wired Lives” By Randi Zuckerberg In this highly informa- tive, introspective look into technology and social media, new media pioneer Randi Zuckerberg addresses how social media and technology can influence our lives online as well as offline. Social media has practically taken over our lives, influencing how we interact with one another. “Dot Complicated” takes a closer look, comparing past generations to today’s generation. Zuckerberg discusses the issues of privacy, online presence, networking, etiquette and social media’s future.

“Say Goodbye to Survival Mode: 9 Simple Strategies to Stress Less, Sleep More and Restore Your Passion for Life”

LOCAL MOTHER & DAUGHTER’S ALL-NATURAL SKIN CARE LINE WRITTEN BY ALANA GARRETT

Naturally beautiful, healthy skin is hard to find these days. Erin Sorena, and her mother, LeAnn Riley, spent several years searching for the perfect organic skin care line that was not only good for your skin but also for the entire body. That’s why the local mother-daughter duo created Bean Àlainn Naturals, a line of products using nature’s most essential oils and ingredients. Bean Àlainn’s mission is simple: organic ingredients, exquisite skin. “We are exposed to countless toxins in our environment that pollute the skin and body; we believe your skin care shouldn’t add to it,” said Sorena, cofounder of Bean Àlainn Naturals. Sorena is a freelance writer, blogger and researcher of total mind and body health. Her mother is a molecular biologist with a background in chemistry. With both of their unique backgrounds and skills, they created Bean Àlainn Naturals, which is a Celtic phrase meaning “beautiful woman.” “We believe in our health message and want Bakersfield to thrive and continue

moving toward living whole and well,” Sorena said. Soon after Bean Àlainn Naturals was founded, the duo developed the MasterMix — an anti-aging powerhouse oil filled with some of the best all-natural ingredients on Earth — that they launched to the public in January 2013. The ingredients in the MasterMix are argan nut oil, pomegranate seed oil, emu oil, grape seed oil, jojoba oil, orange oil, apricot seed oil, evening primrose oil and krill oil. The MasterMix can be used under makeup as a primer and at night after taking off makeup. “We searched the globe to find only the purest, least refined ingredients in existence today. Bean Àlainn’s oils are certified organic and cold-press extracted,” Sorena said.

By Crystal Paine Has your life become a lot more complicated? Do you find yourself losing sleep due to stress or lack of passion for life? With this book, Paine, who has been through quite a lot in her lifetime, can teach you how to improve those problematic areas in your life and how to create a better environment to inspire you to live life with a purpose. This book is filled with practical ideas that can be easily implemented into your life along with inspirational stories you will remember forever.

“It’s Not About the Broccoli: Three Habits to Teach Your Kids for a Lifetime of Healthy Eating” By Dina Rose, PhD This book helps parents realize how to feed their children a proper diet. Most parents intend to feed their child healthy food, but the main problem is getting kids to eat what you put on their plate. By focusing more on healthy habits like exercise and nutrition, Rose has found that children tend to pick up those healthy behaviors than when parents focus soley on nutrition.

P90X CREATOR TONY HORTON TO VISIT BAKERSFIELD WRITTEN BY HILLARY HAENES

Tony Horton — the man behind the world famous P90X workout program — is finally stopping by Bakersfield to motivate his fans. His visit comes after local health fitness experts spent more than two years trying to get this busy fitness guru to town. “It’s a huge deal to get someone of Tony’s stature to come visit Bakersfield. He’s in high demand from the United Service Organizations tour for the military and major companies across America,” said Mike Ryan, Team Beachbody Super Star Diamond Coach. Horton will share his “11 Laws of Fitness” talk and give insight into his personal life and struggles. He will also lead an afternoon workout and offer a photo opportunity and a book signing at the event, held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 17 in the Student Recreation Center at Cal State Bakersfield. Ryan, of Beachbody Team Victory, along with CSUB’s Physical Education and Kinesiology (PEAK) Club run by Dr. Jeff Moffit, helped co-sponsor the event. Attendees will hear inspirational stories from Jeff Hill, senior vice president of global sales for Beachbody, and Doug

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Moss, western director of sales. Local team leaders will provide tips on how to live a healthier life while having a great time. Horton designed popular follow-up programs like P90X2 and P90X3. He has authored three books, including his most recent non-workout book titled “The Big Picture,” an encouraging and practical guide to creating a better life and healthier body. This book shows how one’s physical health is linked to their mental, financial and family health, and overall happiness. It demonstrates that the same skills and principles used in the gym also translate into every area of life. To register for the event, visit www.eventzilla.net/web/ event?eventid=2139014505. Ryan said he worked hard to keep ticket prices down. General admission before May 14 is $37.50, and $50 at the door, whereas in other parts of the country this event would cost nearly double the price. There is a special rate of $5 for CSUB students with a student ID. Keep in mind that seating is limited, so purchase your ticket today.

CHALLENGE YOUR COMMUNICATION Do you ‘Should’ on yourself or Do you ‘Should’ on others? Sorena and Riley have been in business for almost one year, but they have customers nationally and internationally. The Environmental Working Group has even recognized Bean Àlainn Naturals products as one of the safest, anti-aging lines on the market today.

made from organic seaweed, bentonite clay and organic peppermint.

“Our products are universal and appropriate for all skin types as we have chosen complementary nutrient and vitamin leaders that work together to balance and beautify the skin,” Sorena said.

This team hopes to expand from their online boutique to specialty shops and high-end salons in the near future.

Other products from Bean Àlainn Naturals include MasterMix Vegan Formula, an oil almost identical to the orignal MasterMix, minus the krill and emu oils; Enliven Mist that is used as a prepping agent for the MasterMix; African Black Soap made with 50% shea butter and is 100% all-natural; and finally a Transformation Clay Mask

“We want to make skin look better than it would with the average skin care regimen through repair at the cellular level with nature’s most powerful essential oils and organic ingredients,” Sorena said.

“Our customers’ needs are most important in the expansion of our company, and those needs ultimately dictate how and where our products will be made readily available,” Sorena said.

When we ‘should’ on ourselves it can produce guilt, shame, and depression. When we ‘should’ on others it can produce anger, bitterness, and resentment.

SHOULD

Try substituting; Did or Did not for past events, Can or Cannot for present events or Will or Will not for future events. I want to be your friend but, .... I love you but, ..... I heard what you said but, ... But’s can dismiss the message your trying to convey or what another person is telling you.

BUT

Try And instead, I love you and .... I heard what you said and ....

For more information about Bean Àlainn Naturals or to purchase products, visit banaturals.com.

TONY HORTON

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY & BOOK SIGNING

May 17 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cal State Bakersfield

9610 Stockdale Hwy Ste D Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-663-8158

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

out & about b connected ‘MAKE IT HAPPEN’ FOR LOCAL YOUTH In an effort to bring parents, teachers and counselors together to develop a support team for students who are either academically at-risk or grade-level proficient but need challenges, I created Make It Happen Services. Educational services are available for ages PreK to 12. MIH was launched last September, and in nearly six months we have grown from a team of six to 16. The realm of services offered has grown as well, from tutoring and child care to house sitting and dog sitting. Our academic services are unique in that we do not use one particular learning program or curriculum when working with students; instead we work with classroom teachers to utilize resources and supplemental materials that coincide with the adopted curriculum of the school. MIH also offers other educational services, such as academic guidance counseling, SAT Preparation workshops, CAHSEE Preparation workshops, College Preparation Assistance and Summer Academic “Gap” Camps (with dates to be announced). Our staff works with parents and students to help them navigate through the educational system that can often be confusing and overwhelm-

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Contributed Photo

CONTRIBUTED BY KERI KEHOE-MESTMAKER, OWNER OF MAKE IT HAPPEN SERVICES

ing. So often, parents are not aware of what questions to ask or know what options are available to help their student excel academically (and socially) in the classroom. MIH will link the student’s support team together and work to make necessary adjustments in and out of the classroom. A new, growing area of MIH is personal assistant/nanny services. Personal assistant tasks vary from light laundry and cleaning to errand running and cooking. We are ultimately a first-class, one-stop shop for families! For more information on Make It Happen Services, visit facebook.com/MIHServices or makeithappenservices.com. In addition, Make It Happen Services is launching a YouTube Channel, “Let’sMakeItHappenTogether,” which will feature educational and parenting guidance/ advice and other fun episodes for moms. Topics will include fashion, self-esteem, glam and more!

out & about b connected IS TAN, BRONZED SKIN WORTH THE RISK? CONTRIBUTED BY NEAL AMMAR, MD, GEOVER FERNANDEZ, MD & TINA MOUSALLY, NPAC, PA-C, AT CBCC SKIN CANCER, DERMATOLOGY AND LASER CENTER

The perk of living in the sunny state of California is that the weather is nearly always beautiful. And with the hot days ahead comes the awareness that too much sunshine is harmful to our health. To practice having health skin, wear sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours; wear protective clothing or hats; avoid peak UV hours; seek shade when possible, perform a self-exam for damaged skin; and never use indoor tanning beds. We recommend that everyone practice a quick monthly self-examination of their skin to find any new or changing lesions that might be cancerous. We suggest having a dermatologist do a full-body skin exam first to ensure any existing growths, freckles or moles are normal. After the first time, your self-exam should not take more than 10 minutes. Performed regularly, self-exams can help you spot changes in your skin, aiding in early detection of skin cancer. A recent report released by leaders of the United States Energy & Commerce Committee revealed that tanning salons

are not providing accurate information about skin cancer to people seeking their services. The results show that the vast majority of tanning salons provide false information about the serious risks of indoor tanning. When asked whether tanning poses any health risks for patrons, 90% of the salons stated that indoor tanning did not pose a health risk. And, when asked about the specific risk of skin cancer, more than half (51%) of the salons denied that indoor tanning would increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Unfortunately, our community has some indoor tanning salons similar to those places investigated, so it falls on the people of Bakersfield to become more educated. There is no safe UV tan. If a person’s skin color has been changed through UV irradiation, then the melanin cells and squamous cells have been stimulated in a damaging way that has been proven to lead to skin cancer, whether a sunburn occurred or not. Melanoma killed an estimated 9,480 people in the U.S. last year, according to the American Cancer Society. Don’t be fooled; no tan is worth your life.

EAT THIS Berry Wafflewich 170.6 calories 8.6g fat per serving Prep time: 5 min. Cook time: 2 min.

This berry breakfast taco needs: 1 whole wheat toaster waffle 1/2 tablespoon almond butter 1/4 cup slightly crushed blueberries, blackberries or raspberries

NOT THAT

Waffle Breakfast Sandwich from Jack-In-The-Box 470 calories 33g fat per serving

We empower dogs and people to live healthy, happy & productive lives.

Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue is a nonprofit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, trains and re-homes death row dogs from Kern County’s high-kill animal shelters. In addition to saving their lives, we utilize our rescue dogs to help transform people’s lives. Through the great potential of the human-canine bond, we empower dogs and people to live healthy, happy and productive lives. Our current focus is on low-cost spay and neuter clinics, scheduled in conjunction with Canine Community Fairs to be held throughout the year. This, and educational programs targeting our

community’s youth, lay the foundation for positive change that begins in Kern County and reaches far and beyond! Visit our website to become a member of the Mutt Militia today. And join us in making the world a better place, one dog at a time!

WESITE: www.marleysmutts.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/marleysmuttsdogrescue TWITTER: @MMDogRescue EMAIL: inquiries@marleysmutts.com May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

out & about save the date

EVENTS Can’t miss events from May to August 2014 SPORTS & OUTDOORS

EDUCATION

FOOD & DRINK

12th annual High Tea 2014

CENTRAL PARK ALONG MILL CREEK

Thursday, May 15; 5:30 p.m. Lots of great food, drinks, craft vendors, rides, games and more. Featuring free concert by Bryan White on the main stage. bakersfielddba.com

ART

MUSIC

HART PARK

Wednesday, May 14; 11:30 a.m.

Third Thursday

THEATER & DANCE

Sheriff's Department Honor Run 5K/10K

SEVEN OAKS COUNTRY CLUB

Presented by Garden Pathways. Honoring women with a heart for Bakersfield. 2000 Grand Lakes Ave. $65. 633-9133.

KIDS

Saturday, May 17; 8 a.m. This third annual run benefits the children of our fallen Kern County deputies. To register, visit active. com.

“Into the Woods” THE EMPTY SPACE

Friday, May 16; 8 p.m. Directed by Brian Sivesind. The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Tickets are $20. 327-7529. Doors usually open 30 minutes prior to showtime. Once a show has started, there is no late admission so please be sure to arrive promptly.

Third annual “Taste of the Sizzling South”

“Hairspray” CSUB THEATER

Thursday, May 22; 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $12; $10 seniors; $5 students with ID. 654-3150.

NOBLE PARK

Saturday, May 17; 2 p.m. Presented by Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce; food tasting, games, prizes, vendors and music, 2 to 8 p.m. Noble Park, 700 S. P St. $20 adults, $10 KCBCC members; $5 children 10 and younger. 326-1529.

“The Royal Association of Thespians” THE EMPTY SPACE

Friday, May 23; 11 p.m. Performing Friday and Saturday, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-7529.

Bakersfield Collector Con BAKERSFIELD MARRIOTT HOTEL

Sunday, May 18; 10 a.m. Costume contest, guest Johnny Jimenez, toy expert from Pawn Star show, collectibles, raffles, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bakersfield Marriott Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. $5, wear costume and receive half-off admission. Children ages 7 and under are free. 859-1300, or facebook.com/ bakersfieldcollectorcon.

Bakersfield Craft Beer Festival CSUB AMPITHEATRE

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2014

Gates open at 1 p.m., 9001 Stockdale Highway. General admission tickets $40. Beer vendors include Lengthwise Brewing Co., Kern River Brewing Co., Firestone Walker Brewing Co. and many more. Food provided by Moo Creamery, Jake’s Tex-Mex and Eureka! Burger. bakersfieldcraftbeerfestival.com.

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Saturday, May 24; 1 p.m.

George Lopez RABOBANK THEATER

Green Day’s “American Idiot” Broadway Musical RABOBANK THEATER

Tuesday, May 20; 7:30 p.m. Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $35 to $55 plus fees. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Saturday, May 31; 8 p.m. 1001 Truxtun Ave. $37.50 to $47.50 plus fees. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

out & about save the date

Sunset Social PRIVATE RESIDENCE

Saturday, May 31; 6 p.m.

Buena Vista Museum Family Day

Side By Side

BUENA VISTA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Thursday, July 24; 10 a.m.

Saturday, July 11

Tom Xavier‘s Whirlwind Productions Sunset Social includes entertainment, hosted martini bar, silent auction, food. $50. All proceeds benefit Kennemer Center. 204-7799.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. $20 for two adults and up to six children. 324-6350.

16th annual Menudo Cook-off

BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART

Art workshop for kids age 3 to 6 accompanied by an adult, 10 to 11 a.m., Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $10 for members, $15 for non-members, pre-register for member price. 323-7219.

“Menopause” The Musical

KERN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

FOX THEATER

Sunday, June 1; 11 a.m.

Friday, July 25; 7 p.m.

Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts a menudo contest with cash prizes, best decorated booth contest, jalapeno eating contest, live entertainment, vendor booths and kid‘s camp. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 1142 S. P St. $10.

Yokuts Park Fun Runs YOKUTS PARK

Wine & Beer Tasting

This hilarious musical parody about women going through “the change” is staged to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have you laughing and dancing up a storm. Tickets range from $51 to $71. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

STEAK AND GRAPE

Friday, August 1; 5 p.m. Taste a variety of wine and beer. 5 to 7 p.m., Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road. $20. 588-9463.

Saturday, July 12; 7 a.m.

HIGHWAY 178 AND 184

RABOBANK THEATER

Tuesday, July 15

Tuesday, June 3; 6:30 p.m.

Meet at 7 p.m. at the corner of highways 178 and 184. Free. 872-2432.

Showtimes: 6:30 Tuesday; 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $15 to $30 plus fees. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Bakersfield KidsFest KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

Saturday, July 19; 10 a.m.

Kern County Nut Festival KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

Saturday, June 7 Presented by the Kern County Museum Foundation, cooking demonstrations, nutty dishes, arts, crafts, ag exhibits, games and more, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 3801 Chester Ave. kcmuseum.org.

Taft Fireworks Show & Fourth of July Celebration 6TH ST. — TAFT

Friday, July 4; 5 p.m. Music, food and craft vendors, beer garden; starts at 5 p.m., fireworks 9 p.m., on 6th St. between Main and Supply Row in Taft. Free. 765-2165.

Find more community events at kernevents.com or submit your event via email to bwell@bakersfield.com.

LOG CABIN FLORIST

Saturday, July 26; 10 a.m.

• Boutique Consignments • Vintage Clothing • Antique Furniture • Home Décor • 21,000 Sq ft of Shopping

Create a spring vase at 800 19th St. $35, includes a T-shirt. 327-8646.

SFIELD CALIF OR

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Sierra Club Conditioning Hikes

“Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend”

Kid’s Club Design Class

1, 2, 3, and 5-mile runs, presented by the Bakersfield Track Club in cooperation with the City of Bakersfield Parks and Recreation Department, 7 a.m. 1-mile warm-up run, then run 2, 3 or 5 miles. Held at 4200 Empire Drive the second Saturday of each month. bakersfieldtrackclub.com.

FAVORITE RE

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CH O IC E

Shop online BuyWildestDreams.com

1723 18th Street Bakersfield CA 93301 661.324.6484

Benefits the Kern County Museum, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A fun-filled day for babies, toddlers, children, tweens and families to play and learn about all the important aspects of raising happy, healthy kids. More than 100 vendors providing activities, shopping and entertainment. bakersfieldkidsfest.com.

Greenacres Community Center Mon, Wed 5:30pm

Riverlakes Community Center Tues, Thur 9:00am Sat, 8:30am

Uniglobe Travel Tues, Thurs 5:30pm

For more info:

589-8950 or Jazzercise.com May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

out & about b enriched

{explore new ways to get more out

of life} $

WRITTEN BY ALANA GARRETT

Jewelry Making

Purchasing trendy necklaces, bracelets and earrings can get expensive. So why not spend less money, get creative and make your own jewelry? Bakersfield offers a few jewelry classes to help get you started on your own unique designs. Michaels offers jewelry-making classes specializing in wire wrapping, knotted bracelets and bib collar necklaces. Their classes are for beginners and reasonably priced. If you are looking for another place to get your beading fix, you can get crafty with Beverly’s Crafts & Fabrics. They offer a class for folks interested in learning to bead. To find out more about these classes, visit michaels.com or beverlys.com

Polga Fitness

For ladies interested in exploring a new workout routine, Polga Fitness is the place for you. The studio uses alternative forms of exercise to help promote strength, flexibility and endurance using poles, hoops and fly gyms. Polga Fitness provides great exercise in a fun environment. The classes help build confidence, achieve new skills, get toned and most importantly, empower women to achieve their goals. Some of the classes offered include polga, a class that involves poles and yoga; spins n’ circles, a class that focuses on movement, body awareness and balance with the hoop; and fly gym combines Pilates, aerial yoga, pole and aerial arts.

$ DIY Furniture Tired of your old, boring furniture? Give selected pieces a makeover by redecorating them at Chalk Talk, a local furniture restoration store that offers workshops on how to revamp old furniture with decorative chalk paint. The paint requires no sanding, no priming and no stripping. Chalk Talk offers workshops like the Intro to Chalk Paint, a must for beginners that teaches the basics with some simple tips and tricks. There’s also the Bring Your Own Piece (BYOP) workshop, which allows you to bring a piece from home and learn how to put a finish on it. Finishes include Bling It On!, a metallic finish and Crack It Up!, a crackled finish for an aged and rustic look.

To learn more about the classes offered at Polga Fitness, 4151 Ming Ave., Suite 10; visit polgagirlstudio.com.

For more information, stop by Chalk Talk, 10810 Rosedale Highway, or visit chalktalkbakersfield.com.

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nominating Snider’s as the Best Bicycle Store!

• 100s of Bikes to Choose From • Full Line of Parts and Accessories

AN NI

THANK YOU Kern County for

B Well Magazine · May 2014

2700 Union Ave Bakersfield 324-4750

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2700 New Stine Bakersfield 833-2700

www.sniderscycler y.com

Serving Kern County Cyclists For Over 110 Years

r s’ C h oi c e

........................

EXPERT CONNECT

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my eyes are red, watery and Itchy, what should i do?

YOU ARE LIKELY SUFFERING FROM ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS What is allergic conjunctivitis? It is an eye condition that describes the symptoms of allergies in the eyes. The allergens in the air are causing an immune reaction due to histamine released from mast cell breakdown in the eyes. This reaction in turn causes your eyes to become very itchy and inflamed, sometimes giving you the “glassy” eyes look.

How do I know I don’t have pink eye? A thorough eye examination by Dr. Dang will differentiate between a pink eye, “dry eye,” and allergic conjunctivitis. This is very important, as there are many eye conditions out there that can masquerade as allergies. Dr. Dang will identify specifically what is causing the red, watery and itchy eyes and prescribe medications to treat you.

How do you treat allergic conjunctivitis? The best way to treat allergies is to avoid them. If your allergies are environmental, avoidance can be difficult. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, Dr. Dang can determine the treatment that will be the best for your specific allergen(s). This treatment can vary from simple over the counter drops to prescription medications if necessary.

What can I do about my allergies? Dr. Dang’s Allergy Clinic can test for the 60 most common allergens native to the Kern County Area. After your allergen(s) have been identified, Dr. Dang will review your test results to develop a customized treatment plan and help you prevent future attacks of your allergic conjunctivitis.

Vin T. Dang, O.D.

Primary Care Optometrist Glaucoma Certified Diagnostic and Therapeutics Agent Certified Fluent in Spanish, Chinese and French

Empire Eye & Laser Center

Empire H. Eye & Laser Center Daniel Chang, M.D. 4101 Empire Drive, Ste 120 Bakersfield, CA 93309 PH: 661 325 3937

4101 Empire Drive, Ste 120 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Montecito Aesthetic Institute 1150 H Coast Village Rd PH: 661-325-EYES (3937)

Joseph H. Chang, M.D.

Montecito, CA 93108

empireeyeandlaser.com • theeyeliddoc.com PH: 805 565 5700 May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

quiz

CONTRIBUTED BY DR. TOMMY LEE, MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT SARVANAND HEART & STROKE CENTER AT MEMORIAL HOSPTIAL

Research has shown air pollution can trigger heart attacks, abnormal heart rhythms and strokes. Unfortunately, Bakersfield tops the list of cities in the United States as one of the most polluted year-round by small particles. People already at risk for heart disease are particularly vulnerable, especially on poor air quality days. To protect yourself and reduce your overall risk for stroke and heart attack, exercise regularly, control your weight with a healthy diet and follow your doctor’s advice on blood pressure and cholesterol management. To know the state of the air that you breathe, visit airnow.gov. Meanwhile, test your knowledge here: 1 Air pollution is caused by: A Automobile emissions B Cigarette smoking C Coal-burning power plants D Wood-burning stoves E All of the above 2 Individuals who are at a higher risk of a heart attack triggered by air pollution are: A B C D E

Alcoholics Asthmatics Diabetics Hypochondriacs Insomniacs

3 Weather extremes coupled with air pollution do not change the risk of heart attacks. A True B False 4 Steps to reduce the risk of heart attack include: A Blood pressure and cholesterol control B Exercise C Knowing when the air quality is unhealthy D Smoking cessation E All of the above 5 Strategies to limit exposure to air pollution on poor air quality days include: A Avoiding exercising near busy roads B Jogging rather than walking on those days to limit the time you are exposed C Using a typical face mask worn by surgeons in the operating room D All of the above E None of the above 6 Bakersfield is ranked No. 3 nationally for year-round particle pollution and No. 2 for short-term particle pollution. A True B False

Sources: stateoftheair.org; “Air Pollution, Climate, and Heart Disease” (2013); “Air Pollution as a Heart Attack Threat” (2013); “Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Disease” (2004)

B Well Magazine · May 2014

7 Because of the air quality regulations… A Global warming has been halted B Ground level ozone is improved C The particle pollution levels have been decreasing D More people are driving E All of the above 8 Long Beach, Calif. is ranked No. 1 for ozone pollution. A True B False 9 Particle pollution refers to particles 1/30th of the diameter of a hair. It causes heart attacks by: A Causing inflammation in the circulatory system B Clotting up the small vessels in the heart C Destroying the lung D All of the above E None of the above 10 The relationship between air pollution and hospitalization is: A B C D E

Exponential Inversely related Linear All of the above None of the above

Answers: 1(E), 2(C), 3(B), 4(E), 5(A), 6(B), 7(C), 8(A), 9(A), 10(C)

Take this quiz! The Link Between Air Pollution & Heart Disease

out & about get to know

{talking health & wellness with...}

Amy

ADAMS

“

My daily health fix is oatmeal. It is a perfect way to start the day and makes me happy!”

COMPILED BY HILLARY HAENES PHOTOGRAPH BY APRIL MASSIRIO

You may remember her as the pinkhaired girl who was a finalist on the 2004 third season of ‘American Idol,’ but Amy Adams has certainly come a long way since then. Now, 10 years later, Adams’ hair color, a mature light brown with blonde highlights — reflects her transformation. She continues working in the music and entertainment industry, is heavily involved with her Bakersfield community, primarily as a mentor at Garden Pathways, and is a mom to 9-year-old son Harry. She is expecting another baby in October.

“

I am happiest when I am spending time with my son — the coolest and funniest kid on the planet. He makes me laugh and is the best hockey player I know!”

“

My favorite enrichment activity is learning how to play a new instrument or picking up a new sport. I am currently in love with synchronized swimming and have even trained with my Olympian friends in Vegas.”

“American Idol” completely changed my life. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t see the positive effects it has played in my life. It created a platform for me to pursue my dreams and help others in the meantime by way of mentoring through the arts,” Adams said. The 34-year-old is blessed to have had such a successful life thus far. To learn more about Adams, visit bwellmagazine.com.

“

In my home, my bedroom is my sanctuary. My bed is perfection!”

“

The first thing I do when I wake up is stretch.”

“

I balance wellness by truly knowing and listening to my body — sleep and water are my friend! If I start to run on fumes, I need to power nap. Even if it is 10 minutes of shut-eye in my car, it calms my brain and allows for clarity and energy to find me again.”

B Well Magazine · May 2014

“

The best part of my job is that I get to live my dream every day. Whether that is on stage in Vegas or working with my kiddos, I am reminded daily of how fortunate I am to do what I love.”

“

The smartest advice I ever received was from a close friend and former manager Jess Mercado: “Ten percent of life is circumstance, and the other 90 percent is how we respond to it.” This has helped me realize that we truly live the life that we choose, so choose to make it a great one! He was my advice go-to person on ‘American Idol.’”

I K C E D I W S E I R R A C women's special

D O O H ILD S H D C R T O H IG EC F R O D T L R ES O C W N E A D PL I R T E L H U TEAC TY, SETS M OBESI

“While chasing my dream, I lost 75 pounds, and went down 10 sizes...” WRITTEN BY HILLARY HAENES PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Thirteen years ago, 210-pound Carrie Swidecki, then in her mid-20s, was walking past an arcade when her eyes caught sight of the video game, Dance Dance Revolution. Its loud electronic music and bright blinking lights mesmerized her as she walked up to the game. Swidecki didn’t think anyone was watching, so she hopped on the platform and started stepping to the music. After only 10 steps, the overweight Swidecki grew tired. At that moment, an observer shouted, “You suck!”

Now the 37-year-old, who teaches second grade at Sandrini Elementary School in the Panama Buena Vista School District, is in the best shape of her life and loving every minute.

That moment and those words left an everlasting impression, Swidecki said. She decided to challenge herself to lose weight by exergaming.

With her weight-loss transformation, Swidecki built up enough strength and confidence to revisit a childhood dream of being a long distance runner. In 2010, Swidecki ran her first 5K, and a year later she ran her first half marathon. But her greatest achievement of all has been using her passion of exergaming to spread awareness about childhood obesity.

“I fell in love with the arcade community. Little did I know those first 10 steps I took on Dance Dance Revolution would change my life,” she said. “While chasing my dream, I lost 75 pounds, went down 10 sizes, became an advocate to fight childhood obesity, and a multi Guinness World Record Holder.”

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Swidecki didn’t see the impact that exergaming had on her weight right away. It wasn’t until she made the transition from shopping at plus-size stores to wearing smaller sizes that she realized dancing to video games was making her fit.

Five years ago when the economy went into a recession, Swidecki noticed her

students weren’t talking about afterschool sports. Primary physical education programs and lunchtime sports were being cut, and many parents couldn’t afford to put their children on recreational sports teams. “Sports were a huge aspect of my childhood — I grew up playing tennis and soccer... One day, I noticed my students were talking about their favorite video games. That’s when I made the connection to use exergaming in the schools for physical education,” Swidecki said. In an effort to help her students, Swidecki wrote four grants through donorschoose.org to get various consoles and games. And for the past four years, Swidecki has shared exergaming at her school. Last year, she was asked to pilot a Presidential Fitness Program using Just Dance in an after-school program for 100 students in grades second through sixth.

Swidecki setting 10 1 high

After losing her weight, Swidecki had her heart set on accomplishing another goal — setting a Guinness World Record for exergaming. Swidecki put in 35 to 45 hours a week to properly train her body to dance for long hours. She achieved her dream earlier this year in January, when she danced for 49 hours, 3 minutes and 22 seconds. She made history by becoming the only person in the world to hold a record for longest marathon play on all three major dance games: Just Dance, Dance Central and Dance Dance Revolution, as well as the first female to set them after being obese. Swidecki used her skill to bring national awareness to having motion sensing dance games in physical education programs. “Starting at the 30th hour, I had severe back spasms. I was very uncomfortable, but I looked up and saw two of my students looking at me. That’s when I decided to suck up the pain and just keep dancing,” she said.

Swidecki with her students

On April 18, Swidecki attended Cal State Bakersfield’s Campus Gamers and Dance Marathon club teams’ Just Dance ‘For The Kids’ event and set 101 high scores. Swidecki danced for 12 hours straight to raise money to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network with all proceeds going to Lauren Small Children’s Medical Center at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. Last year, she helped to raise $17,500, and this year, the event has already raised $8,000, which will go to purchasing life-saving equipment. Swidecki has uploaded 101 high scores on Just Dance 2014 to Guinness World Records from the CSUB event and sent evidence to London to be reviewed and made official. Now she is just waiting to be recognized. Currently, Swidecki is training to break two more marathon world records on Just Dance 2014 this summer. To learn more about Swidecki, visit carrieswidecki.com or follow her on Twitter @CarrieSwidecki for her latest updates.

scores on April

18.

women's special Weight-Loss Tips For Women — The Natural Way

CONTRIBUTED BY DARSHAN SHAH, MD, FACS MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF BEAUTOLOGIE COSMETIC SURGERY AND MEDSPA

It’s pretty well known that it can be more difficult for women to lose weight than their male counterparts. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard my patients say, “My husband can lose 10 pounds by just not eating for a few days, but it takes me forever!” Well, there is a reason for this. Women are genetically programmed differently than men for childbearing, breast-feeding and handling more stress. For these reasons, women have a completely different body type: Less muscle mass but leaner muscle, less visceral (fat inside your abdomen) than peripheral fat, and a slower metabolism that is more subject to hormonal changes. However, this is not all bad! Here are some tips to help take advantage of these differences to shed pounds quickly, and keep them off. Tip No. 1: Smaller portions make a big difference in the long haul. Imagine cutting your calorie intake in half but not missing those calories by using simple mental tricks. Drink a full glass of water before eating your meal; replace all the plates in your home with smaller ones (put the large plates away in the garage); when cooking at home, only make one portion per person; and when going out to dinner, always share one order (this saves money, too). All these seemingly small adjustments will add up over the course of a month, three months and a year. For women, it’s the long-term calorie deficit that makes a difference in permanent weight loss. Quick fix diets almost never work. Tip No. 2: Can’t get to gym? Make your entire day a workout! Use every opportunity you can to move around. Have a walk and talk meeting, bike to work, take the kids to the park or put the treadmill in front of the TV. Short bursts of activity make a huge difference in calorie expenditure for women. Committing yourself to the gym is a noble goal but very disappointing if you consistently miss. Don’t make the gym your only physical activity for the day; instead, use it as a bonus way of burning calories when you can fit it in your schedule. Tip No. 3: Use technology to your advantage. Wearable sensors are now extremely affordable and very accurate. My favorites are the Bodymedia FIT armband and the UP wristband by Jawbone. Both are fun to use. It’s all about consuming healthy calories and then burning them off, so use these tools to give you the data you need to get motivated daily! Use the social tools to make it a game between your friends and family. The more people on your team, the more motivating it is to shed those unwanted pounds. Remember, almost every study done on women and weight loss shows us that long-term weight loss, done slowly over time, is long lasting. Don’t get caught up in fad diets. Use these small, incremental changes to achieve a permanent solution.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

women's special Important Tips to

PROTECT THE SKIN AT ANY AGE CONTRIBUTED BY MILAN R. SHAH, MD, LASER & AESTHETIC MEDICINE AT BEAUTOLOGIE COSMETIC SURGERY AND MEDSPA

Skin care is an age-old phenomenon. The ancient Egyptians wore cosmetics, as they believed they had magical powers, and they used herbs and oils to help protect their skin from the harsh sun-filled environment. It goes without saying that skin care and skin protection is just as important to humans as any other facet of our health. Here are a few tips to protect your skin from the harsh sunlight. PROTECTION FROM UV LIGHT | A lifetime of sun exposure can cause premature aging in the form of wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems — the worst is skin cancer — the most common form of cancer in the United States. There is about one death every hour from melanoma, the most viscous form of skin cancer. A majority of us assume that it is only important to protect ourselves during warmer days or when going to the beach or pool. But the risk of UV exposure during an overcast day can be equally high. Through the year, all that accumulated UV exposure can be extremely detrimental, so make applying SPF part of your daily routine. HOW TO SELECT THE BEST SUNSCREEN | The ideal sunscreen would completely block harmful UV rays that cause sunburns and damaging free radicals (what ages our skin). The sunscreen should remain effective for hours and not be harmful for the skin as it breaks down. Finally, it should smell and feel very pleasant. For example, mineral sunscreens are relatively stable, do not penetrate the skin, and offer a good amount of UV protection not available in many sunscreens that are sold over the counter (OTC). Titanium and zinc oxide are great examples of these mineral-based sunscreens available. Another contender is Avobenzone, which offers UVA protection without other competing products that may disrupt natural hormones.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Look for an SPF of about 30 to 50. There is no evidence that products higher than SPF 50 are more beneficial. In fact, these sunscreens can be misleading. The SPF only is an indicator of UVB protection, not really UVA. This means that a person wearing an SPF 80 may be tempted to stay in the sun longer because they are not burning, yet that person is getting an increased dose of UVA light. The Beautologie Skin Care Be-blocked sunscreen provides the perfect blend of mineral blockers, Avobenzone and goes on smoothly without feeling greasy.

MAINTAINING THAT BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY GLOW | Not smoking is key! Smoking narrows blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin leading to less oxygen and nutrients being delivered to the skin. Tobacco and nicotine also damages collagen and elastin — the components that give skin its elasticity and overall fullness. Eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Another important way to help with healthy skin is to manage stress. Uncontrolled amounts of stress can lead to acne breakouts and other skin problems.

In addition to finding that perfect sunscreen, we need to use common sense. Seek shade, especially when the sun is the strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wear protective clothing when possible.

Our skin is the largest organ in our body, so we have to take care of it. If you have concerns about keeping your skin healthy or reversing damaged skin, call Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa at 327-3800 or visit beautologie.com.

SKIN CARE AND SKIN TREATMENT PRODUCTS | Unfortunately, we live in a world of quick fixes where large retailers sell brand-name products that over promise and under deliver. OTC products are not prescription products and, therefore, will never be as effective as medication. The problem is that they are marketed to be almost as good as prescription products but are usually substandard. You will probably never really find an OTC face-lift-in-a bottle. Of course, the other big issue with OTC regimens is, whom do you go to for advice on what to purchase? Where do you go if you have problems or reactions with them? The best solution for someone looking to truly improve the appearance of his or her skin is to seek an expert. Unlike physician prescribed creams, cosmetics do not change or affect the skin’s structure or function. Consulting your physician about what products would best suit your individual needs will most likely lead you on a path of turning back the clock and maintaining healthy skin.

women's special How to

PROPERLY CARE FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN CONTRIBUTED BY NONDY LLEWELLYN, LE, COE, LICENSED ONCOLOGY ESTHETICIAN

Acne is the most common skin disorder in the world, and those who have it suffer both physically and emotionally. Sadly, only a fraction of people with acne seeks professional help. Some physicians prescribe oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, laser treatments or isotretinoin. Professional esthetic care is also available for those who wish to try a non-prescriptive alternative to physician care. Professional, non-prescriptive esthetic acne care and professional advice on daily lifestyle choices, proper selection and strategic use of products will help you achieve and maintain clear skin. Here are some steps to help control acne flare-ups.

5 // 1 //

Get enough rest and reduce your stress. Stress stimulates the adrenal gland and in the acne-prone individual, this promotes excessive oil, which leads to clogged follicles.

2 //

Avoid foods, vitamin supplements and sports drinks/bars that contain iodides. Iodized salt, seafood, seaweed, sushi, fast foods, whey protein and dairy products are a part of this list. Also on the list of foods to avoid are peanuts, peanut oil, peanut butter (almond butter is a great substitute), wheat germ and corn oil. Avoid eating foods that give little nutritional value to your body, such as sugary sweets. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and lean protein sources and drink lots of water.

3 //

Swimming pool disinfectants contain iodides and chlorine, which can cause skin problems for frequent swimmers. Many swimmers find that the combination of hot and humid weather, the physical exercise of swimming and the chlorinated pools can cause major acne break outs.

4 //

Don't pick! Make sure to wash your hands before touching your face, and remember that picking can spread acne bacteria. Instead of picking, rub ice on pustules and pimples for two to three minutes, twice a day. This reduces inflammation and swelling.

Use fragrance-free laundry detergents such as Cheer Free, All Free & Clear, Tide Free or Arm & Hammer Free. Do not use fabric softeners in the washer or sheets in the dryer, especially on pillowcases as they cause a waxy residue that can clog pores on acne-prone individuals. (If you are worried about static cling, then use anti-static cling balls that you can purchase from Bed Bath & Beyond.)

6 //

Do not use cosmetics or hair products that contain poreclogging ingredients. This is especially important for those with acne.

7 //

Avoid low-estrogen birth control pills. Women should ask their doctor what birth control may help with acne.

8 //

Limit sun exposure and use a non-comedogenic sunscreen. Although sun exposure causes desirable scaling and drying, it also exacerbates hyper pigmentation, promotes skin cancer and premature aging. This can cause “solar acne” later in life, as well as “acne majorca,” where heat and humidity make the skin swell from sunlight.

9 //

See your acnetrained professional regularly to assist you in maintaining clear skin and to adjust your care as needed. There is no one-sizefits-all answer to this complex skin disorder. Your esthetician can guide you through the process. The result? You really can take control of your skin! You need the tools and tips that your acnetrained specialist can provide. Nondy Llewellyn Skin Care is located inside San Dimas Medical Group Women’s Health Center, 100 Old River Road. For skin questions or to book an appointment, call 319-3568. Visit nondyllewellynskincare.com for more information.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

women's special

TAKING THE

TEST LOCAL WOMAN TAKES ACTION WHEN A GENETIC TEST REVEALS HER CANCER RISKS WRITTEN BY KELLY DAMIAN PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

When Sofie Zimmermann lost her mother to cancer 10 years ago, it broke her heart. Her mother had been diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer at the age of 55 and passed away four years later. “The hardest part for me was knowing that a stage 4 diagnosis left her with no choices,” said Zimmermann, Bakersfield wife and mother who is active in nonprofit activities benefiting local law enforcement. “She had a full hysterectomy, did rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, but the cancer had spread too far. Watching her go through this left me feeling hopeless. My mother had such a strong faith, and until the day she died truly believed that if she fought hard and long enough, she could beat this. At some point, my prayers shifted from, ‘Please help her recovery’ to ‘Please Lord, help end her pain.’” It wasn’t the first time that cancer appeared in Zimmermann’s life — on her father’s side of the family, she has three aunts, one uncle and two cousins who have had breast cancer. The disease prompted Zimmermann to take a genetic test that revealed her strong chances of developing two forms of cancer, a risk that led her to undergo major surgeries. GENETIC TESTING Although Zimmermann was not diagnosed with cancer, she tested positive for the BRCA2 mutation. The results meant that she had an 87% out of 90% likelihood of developing breast cancer and a 30% out of 40% likely chance of developing ovarian cancer. “I grew up knowing that I had a family history of breast cancer on my father’s side,” Zimmermann said.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

women's special

“When you’re young, you really don’t pay attention to what that means. As I got older and started communicating more with my father’s side of the family who lives on the other side of the country, I realized that this breast cancer history meant six family members currently have or have had breast cancer. I am the third person on my father’s side to test positive for the BRCA2 mutation.” With the positive test results came a string of decisions, each with their own complications. She could continue with surveillance and wait to see if any cancer developed. She could start preventative chemotherapy, which would be a small, daily dose of medicine. Or Zimmermann could have surgery to remove her breasts and ovaries. “With my family history, I was not completely shocked to get the positive BRCA2 mutation result,” she said. “Ultimately, I decided to look at it as a blessing — being able to know ahead of time how truly high my cancer risks are. I have choices, something my mother and other family never had. I don’t need to feel helpless.” FAITH IN GOD As a result of the testing, Zimmermann talked to her doctors and educated herself about her options, but in the end, it was Zimmermann’s family history of cancer that pushed her to opt for surgery. Once the decision was made, Zimmermann felt a sense of peace.

She followed every order given by her doctors. “The fact that I lost my mom made me want to be proactive,” Zimmermann said. By 2013, Zimmermann had undergone four biopsies on a fibrocystic tumor in her right breast. Her doctor finally recommended a lumpectomy. It was then that Zimmermann decided to get genetically tested for the BRCA mutation. THE BRCA GENE All people have both the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. When functioning properly, they produce proteins that repair damaged DNA and suppress tumors. For the person who inherits a mutated BRCA gene, DNA damage may not be repaired properly, making that person more likely to develop certain types of cancer. Though the percentage of people in the general population who carry a mutated BRCA1 or 2 gene is extremely low, less than 0.25% according to the National Cancer Institute, for those who do carry the mutation, the stakes are high. They are more likely to get cancer at a younger age, develop bilateral breast cancer and be diagnosed with multiple types of cancers in their lifetime. FOUR SURGERIES On January 22, Zimmermann underwent her first surgery, a bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction.

The road to genetic testing was a work in progress.

During the 11 1/2 hour surgery, all of her breast tissue was removed. Fat from her torso was then transplanted to her chest and shaped into breasts. Then the surgeon painstakingly reattached blood vessels to the transplanted tissue.

In reviewing her family history, Zimmermann’s doctors began closely watching for signs of cancer 10 years ago, screening Zimmermann every six months alternating between MRIs and mammograms.

Zimmermann spent six days in the hospital recovering from the surgery, three of them in intensive care. She will have two more, much less intensive cosmetic surgeries to finish reconstructing her breasts.

“I completely put my faith in God,” she said.

In June, Zimmermann will have a hysterectomy, which will include the removal of both of her ovaries. Amidst the major medical procedures, some of Zimmermann’s friends and family have been uncomfortable with the intrusive nature of her surgeries. “They said, ‘Are you sure this is what you have to do?’ They were nervous with the element of choice,” Zimmermann said. But the way Zimmermann sees it, she is taking advantage of options that weren’t available to her mother. “If there’s a choice to be with my kids longer, I’m going to take it,” she said. “God has blessed me with the opportunity to be proactive. The decision to have the preventative double mastectomy was not an easy one, but it is a decision that I am very, very happy about. I have decreased my chances of having breast cancer from 87% to less than 5%. That to me is a no-brainer. I will do whatever I have to do to make sure that I’m not cheated out of being a part of my family’s lives.” NO SECRETS Along with five adult stepdaughters, Zimmermann has four biological children, ranging in age from 7 to 20. Each of her children, the girls and the boy, has a 50-50 chance of having the BRCA mutation. “Nothing’s a secret at my house,” said Zimmermann about her kids being well aware of their family history. Her goal has been to set an example for her children on how to deal with serious life-changing events. She feels she missed out on many great moments with her mother. (Continued on page 30)

“... take control of your own fate.” - Sofie Zimmermann May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

women's special Understanding Genetic Testing WRITTEN BY PAUL RIVAS

Discovering a genetic mutation that increases your risk for cancer will change the way you view your life in a heartbeat. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are mutated genes that are associated with an increased risk of cancer. Though the mutations are rare, people who might consider getting tested for the mutated genes are those who have a family history of breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. Local oncologists advise that people who want to get tested for the mutated genes visit with a genetics counselor first. Zimmermann with her daughters, Jilliann and Reagann.

(Continued from page 29)

“For anyone who has had to go through that with a parent or loved one, it is definitely a life-altering experience” Zimmermann said. “I miss her shy smile, her motherly advice and just being able to have a mom to talk to. It makes me sad to know my two youngest children will never know her. I think of all the missed proms, graduations, weddings and great grandbabies that she will never see. I guess I feel like cancer has already cheated us out of so much.” And that’s one of the driving reasons Zimmermann decided to share her story. GOING PUBLIC “I have had people ask why I would be so open with my medical choices. I have lived my entire life in Kern County, minus a few years in San Diego. I feel like I have a responsibility to my community. If me being open about this helps even one person realize that they too have choices, then why be silent?" said Zimmermann. “I encourage anyone reading this, especially women with a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer, to go out and get tested. We have local doctors who are experts in this field. Seek them out and take control of your own fate.” Zimmermann credits her husband, Kevin, a chief deputy with the Kern County Sheriff’s Department, for helping her through this tough journey. “I am fortunate to have a husband like Kevin,” she said. “He has been there for me every step of the way. He is so loving and supportive, that he’s taken away the feeling of this just being my battle. Instead, it’s ‘our’ battle. He also wants me to stick around and is for any choice that is going to help make that possible.” And her children agree. Zimmermann was worried how her children would react now that she has gone through some major surgeries. But her youngest daughter put it in perspective. BATTLE WOUNDS A few days after Zimmermann came home from the hospital, she was getting out of the shower and didn’t realize that her youngest daughter was standing in her bathroom. She quickly grabbed a towel to cover up her many incisions and tubes. “I told her that I was so sorry I startled her. I said, ‘I know that Mommy has a lot of scars and looks really different.’ She slowly looked at me closely and then said, ‘You don’t look very different to me, Mommy. You still look beautiful.’” From that point forward, Zimmermann realized that she would never look at her scars again as something ugly, but instead, as a reminder of why she made her choice.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

“A licensed genetics counselor provides you with an understanding of what the testing may mean to you or a family member if the test is positive for a potentially cancer causing gene,” said Dr. Oscar Streeter, Jr., Medical Director of The AIS Cancer Center at San Joaquin Community Hospital. Genetics counselors also provide emotional support, as well as information on cancer screening tests. “In Bakersfield, The Breast Health Center at Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center provides genetic counseling of this kind,” said Dr. Ravi Patel of CBCC. “Nurse practitioner Kathy Jo Robb is (our) genetics counselor.” Visit cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/BRCA for more information on these mutations and genetic testing.

special- allergies

Hello sunny skies, warmer weather — and, of course,

POLLEN SEASON CONTRIBUTED BY PAULA ARDRON, MD, ALLERGIST & IMMUNOLOGIST AT KAISER PERMANENTE

Kern County has unique challenges when it comes to allergies. Unfortunately for our county, the pollen season is year-round. Our location in the San Joaquin Valley allows pollen and pollution to pool without escape due to the high mountains that surround us. Our pollen season; however, actually begins early in the year once trees are in full bloom. This coincides with the latter half of the cold and flu season, so many can’t tell if they are battling a reoccurring cold or suffering from chronic allergies. Although the classic allergy symptoms consist of runny nose, sneezing and congestion, these symptoms can also be present with a viral infection. Nasal, throat, eye or ear itching combined with the above symptoms will help confirm that an allergy is present.

To deal with the spring/summer pollen season, consider these tips to lessen your exposure: //Keep your windows closed at night to help minimize your exposure to peak pollen levels. Pollen levels reach their highest point around 3 a.m. as they drift close to the earth’s surface. Using your air conditioner can help prevent pollen from entering your home. //Take showers at night to help rinse off the pollen that has collected on your skin and in your hair before going to bed. //Dry your bedding in the dryer instead of hanging it on the clothesline to prevent pollen from embedding itself in pillowcases and sheets, putting a stop to nocturnal flares.

If controlling your environment is not enough to control your symptoms, then your next step is medication management: //Saline sinus rinse Many people forget about the simple benefits of using saline sinus rinses. These can be purchased in kits at local drug stores or health food stores. By cleansing pollen from the nose, saline disrupts pollen’s ability to trigger swelling or mucus production. Saline rinses can be helpful at the onset of a sinus infection. //Antihistamine Several over the counter antihistamine tablets can calm allergy symptoms. The 12-hour or 24-hour preparations are the best because they are less likely to make you drowsy and can control sneezing, runny nose and itching. Nasal steroid sprays are the gold standard for preventive allergy therapy. They help prevent nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing and itching. More recently, nasal antihistamines have been shown to be effective with nasal steroids to prevent seasonal and perennial allergy symptoms. //Allergy shots Allergy injection therapy can be a great option for those who want a longterm plan for allergy treatment. It is a three- to five-year treatment plan that increases your immune system’s tolerance to allergens. Most people see improvement after they have been on them for six to nine months. It is a time intensive option initially but can be very beneficial.

pollen

There are various ways to control your allergic disease. Knowing how to recognize allergic symptoms, minimize allergen exposure, and treat or prevent the symptoms that arise will allow you to have a happy and healthy pollen season.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

your health defying the odds

STRONG WILL

STRONG HEART WRITTEN BY CHELSEA BREWER

When your child is sick, you want to do whatever it takes to make them well. But what if it’s more than just a cold or flu? What do you do when the doctor tells you it’s not just an illness, but possibly a fatal disease? Such was the case for little Adonis Watts and his mother, Malachi Richardson. Not long after his first birthday, Adonis was having trouble breathing and became fatigued. The Bakersfield boy was initially diagnosed with pneumonia, but after a month of antibiotics and rest, he wasn’t getting any better. After taking Adonis back to the doctor, Richardson was devastated to learn the correct diagnosis of her son’s illness: Cardiomyopathy, a disease where the heart muscle deteriorates, often leading to heart failure.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

“Cardiomyopathy can occur in different levels,” said Dr. Jondavid Menteer, Adonis’ pediatric cardiologist. “It can limit your ability to play and exercise. But if it’s severe enough, despite all the medical support given, a heart transplant will still be needed.”

“

He's living an even better life than before he got sick, thanks to his transplant.”- Dr. Menteer In Adonis’ case, medication was not going to help and he was immediately added to a transplant list. Richardson was informed that it could take up to nine months to receive a donor heart. She wasn’t sure if they could wait that long.

Richardson had to leave her job so she could be with Adonis at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. On her birthday in August, eight months after Adonis’ initial diagnosis, Richardson wished that her son would have a new heart by his next birthday, a date only two months away. Two weeks later, Richardson’s wish came true. On Sept. 10, 2012, Adonis underwent transplant surgery and received his new heart. One month later, he celebrated his second birthday back home in Bakersfield at Chuck E. Cheese’s, surrounded by his family and friends. “After a near-death experience, he’s living an even better life than before he got sick, thanks to his transplant,” Menteer said. “He’s an amazing kid.”

Adonis’ new heart may only last him about 18 to 20 years. Later in life he may need a pacemaker or another transplant. Still, Richardson hopes for a happy future for Adonis. “We’re going to defeat the odds,” she said. Every three months, Adonis has check-up appointments with his heart doctor. They go over results from an EKG and other tests to make sure his body is functioning properly with his new heart and that he doesn’t need any adjustment to his medication or lifestyle. (Continued on page 34)

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Adonis with his mother, Malachi.

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your health defying the odds (Continued from page 33) “He’s doing really well. He lives a completely normal life,” Menteer said. Nowadays, Adonis is just like any other adorable 3-year-old boy. He can run, jump, laugh and play like other kids. “He likes movies. He plays T-ball and goes to school,” said Richardson, happily. “He’s as normal as can be.” Because of organ donation, Adonis has another chance at life. Richardson understands that donating a child’s organs is a difficult choice to make for a parent if the chance arises. But it is a wonderful decision that can save the lives of many other children just like Adonis. For more information about organ and tissue donation, visit onelegacy. org or call 800-338-6112.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Adonis and Malachi

“We are going to defeat the odds.” - Malachi Richardson

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EXPERT CONNECT

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HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO GET HELP FOR SENIOR VETERANS AND THEIR SPOUSES? The VA’s Aid and Attendance pension benefit is one way for veterans or their surviving spouses to afford in-home care. Many people are intimidated by the process. Going at it alone can be difficult and can even lower the chances of an application being approved quickly. Get help before applying. A Senior Veterans Benefits Advocates professional can help you through the entire process. · WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BASIC QUALIFICATIONS? First, applicants must have an original or certified copy of their discharge papers and have served at least one day of active duty during a time of war. However, they did not have to be deployed. If original discharge paperwork cannot be found, then we can file for a certified replacement copy. Next, the applicant must have a medical reason for needing home care. The medical reason does not have to be a serious condition or mean that they cannot do some tasks on their own part of the time. It simply means that they need assistance with some of life’s everyday activities including meal preparation, cleaning and driving. Finally, to qualify financially, an applicant must have a limited monthly income and an average of less than $80,000 in assets, excluding their primary home and vehicles. However, we have seen some people with more than this qualify under the right conditions. · HOW LONG DOES THIS PROCESS TAKE? The VA claims that the average processing time is currently eight to nine months. However, when you have someone experienced and knowledgeable on your side, we find that the applications go much faster with a higher approval rating. In fact, we have seen our claims go through as fast as 30 days. Our average claim is processed in 60 to 90 days, and nearly all claims get approved. We cannot guarantee these results for everyone, but you should know that having someone experienced help you through the process can make a big difference.

"Quality In Home Care That Improves Lives"

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Mike Williams,

CEO / President Ally Senior Care, Founder of Senior Veterans Benefit Advocates

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Toll Free 885-410-VETS (8387)

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

your health health apps

{9 apps to lead a healthier lifestyle} COMPILED BY ERIC GARZA

Find Me Gluten Free by GF Classes LLC

Find restaurants, cafes and bars that offer gluten-free items with the help of Find Me Gluten Free. This app locates the closest restaurant that offers gluten-free food and drinks. It also has restaurant reviews and a menu. iPhone and Android; Free

7 Minute Workout Challenge

by Fitness Guide, Inc.

This app features a voice-command intense workout session to keep you moving. Each workout lasts about 30 seconds and lets you take short 10-second breathers in between to keep your body moving. iPhone and Android; Free

Eat This, Not That!

by Rodale Inc. Digital

Inspired by the book series “Eat This, Not That!,” this app helps users swap their “unhealthy” food choice for one that is similar and healthier. It also features a calorie tracker and personal weight watcher. iPhone & Android; $4.99

Paperless: List + Checklists by Crush Apps

Going paperless is at your fingertips. Paperless is an app that is designed to track and list things to keep you on track. You can make a grocery list, expenses list along with many more to share with others. iPhone; Free (list up to 30 items); $2.99

OneReceipt

Starfall ABCs by Starfall Education

This app helps your infant get a head start on learning his or her ABCs and learning to put them together to make words. This app also helps children recognize their ABCs more efficiently by seeing, hearing and interacting with letters and sounds to learn words and sentences. iPhone and Android; $2.99

Perfect365

by ArcSoft, Inc.

Ever taken a picture of yourself on a phone and wished you could do something about that unwanted face mark or blemish? The Perfect365 app helps retouch photos of yourself to make you look blemish-free and get picture-perfect skin. Also, have fun with new makeovers to customize your favorite looks. iPhone and Android; Free

mySkin

by My Skin

This application is geared to helping you find products that work for your skin. Search from more than 160,000 skincare products. You can compare skin tones with your friends and get answers to your skincare questions. It also offers unbiased advice to properly treat your skin. iPhone and iPad; Free

by OneReceipt

Storing paper and digital receipts on your phone has never been so convenient. Paper receipts can be stored by simply taking a photo of it. The app then scans what has been printed on the receipt and stores the information onto the user’s account. iPhone; Free

B Well Magazine · May 2014

StyleBook

by left brain/right brain, LLC

With StyleBook, simply select what types of clothes you have in your closet, and the app creates different combinations of outfits. This app also includes fashion tips to inspire your next ensemble. iPhone and iPad; $3.99

Stay connected Live, streaming video programming on Bakersfield.com

First Look with Scott Cox: Weekdays from 7 to 10 am. features interviews, as well as comments and analysis from The Californianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning journalists.

Strictly Business: Cindy Pollard, President/CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, as she talks with local businesses on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m.

Roadrunner Rundown: Costelloe, Cal Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Director of Broadcasting and New Media discuss Cal State Athletic Programs from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays.

The Real Estate Show: Presented by Watson Realty ERA features real estate news and market information from Kern County on Mondays from 1 to 2 p.m.

Power Hour: From the Auto Club Famoso Raceway to the new Kern County Raceway Park, catch it live, every Tuesday at 11 a.m. on bakersfield.com

Condors Unleashed: Kevin Bartl and Ryan Holt from the Condors, Wednesdays from Noon to 1 p.m

B Varsity with Zach Ewing: Features previews, interviews and highlights that give you an inside look at the local high school sports scene. Live Well: Lisa Krch explores Wellness, Health, Fitness and Living Wednesdays 10 to 11 am

Open Up: With Don Clark and Tina Miller Thursdays 10 to 11 am

PRODUCED BY

TBC MEDIA

your health health watch

{q & a with local experts in their medical field} PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Darshan Shah, MD, FACS Plastic/Cosmetic Surgeon Beautologie Medical Group

Cheree Wilhelmsen, OD Optomotrist Innovative Eye Care

What is the difference Q: between liposuction and

do I treat my dry Q: How eye syndrome?

A: In our practice, we see many patients who are confused about abdominal procedures. Liposuction is only fat removal, whereas a tummy tuck (also known as abdominoplasty) is a procedure that involves removal of skin and fat. Tummy tucks work best for people who have loose skin (sometimes hanging skin) or stretch marks in their abdominal area. This usually occurs after losing weight or having a baby. With liposuction, it depends on the elasticity of the skin for tightening. If you do liposuction of the abdominal area, you should have little to no loose skin; otherwise you will have hanging skin that will need to be removed with a tummy tuck. Schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures on a regular basis to find out the best procedure for you.

A: If your eyes feel sandy, gritty or irritated by the end of the day, then you may be experiencing dry eye syndrome. Tears are necessary to maintain the health of the front surface of the eye and to provide clear vision. Common risk factors for dry eyes include age, gender, the use of certain medications and a dry climate. Dry eye syndrome can be diagnosed by your eye doctor and treated by adding artificial tears or by using prescription eye drops to increase tear production. If you are a computer user, remember to take frequent breaks and blink more often. Also, if you are outdoors, sunglasses are a must to protect from wind and dust.

a tummy tuck?

Vihn-Linh Nguyen, MD

Hematologist/Oncologist Bakersfield Hematology/Oncology

symptoms may Q: What I experience after

receiving breast cancer treatment?

A: Unfortunately, the reality of life after breast cancer treatment is far more complex and challenging. Some side effects of chemotherapy may include fatigue, diminished cognitive functions, nerve damage, weight gain, de-conditioning, generalized weakness and joint pain may linger. The truth is that life after breast cancer can be full of struggles: physical, psychological, emotional, social and sometimes spiritual. All breast cancer survivors experience these types of struggles to various degrees. It is important to understand, acknowledge, keep an open mind about, and always discuss your concerns with your oncologist. In many cases, there are measures that can alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

OUR OTHER EXPERTS

Laurie Wallace, MS, RD, CDE Kiersten Melendez, PA-C Brian Monroe, DPT, OCS Dietitian Physician’s Assistant Physical Therapist

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Javier Bustamante, MD Michael Thurman, DDS, MSD Edmund Fisher, MD, FACS Pediatrics Dentistry/Orthodontics Ear/Nose/Throat

your health

smart health news

Women’s Health Statistics COMPILED BY ALANA GARRETT

THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS WOMEN LIVE LONGER THAN MEN.

The First Annual KidsFest is coming to the

Kern County Museum on Saturday, July 19th!

60%

more than of women do not do the recommended daily amount of daily physical activity (30 minutes of moderate exercise).

$160 Billion THE AMOUNT SPENT ANNUALLY ON SKIN CARE AND HAIR CARE, MAKEUP, COSMETIC SURGERY, FRAGRANCES, HEALTH CLUBS AND DIET PRODUCTS.

232,670 THE NUMBER OF CASES OF INVASIVE BREAST CANCER THAT WILL BE DIAGNOSED IN WOMEN IN 2014.

40,ooo THE APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF WOMEN WHO WILL DIE FROM BREAST CANCER IN 2014.

AGES 40 & OLDER

WOMEN SHOULD HAVE A MAMMOGRAM EVERY YEAR.

THE AGE WOMEN SHOULD START GETTING PAP TESTS REGULARLY

Women listen with both sides of their brain.

KidsFest Bakersfield is a great place to get your products and services in front of thousands of forward-thinking, modern families. • • • • • KidsFest Bakersfield will allow Kern County kids and parents the opportunity to touch, feel and experience your product while they explore 16 acres of creative fun.

Vendor Opportunities Available! • Education • Extracurricular Activities • Fashion • Food Vendors • Health and Medical • Nutrition • Professional Services

For more information, contact Mira Patel: 661-395-7586 mpatel@bakersfield.com Sponsored by

IN A STUDY DONE AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, WOMEN LISTENED WITH THEIR LEFTSIDES AND SHOWED ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THEIR BRAIN.

Sources: cancer.org, cdc.gov, health.howstuffworks.com, oprah.com, skincares.us, thebeautycompany.co, who.int, womenssportsfoundation.org

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

your health holistic health

{vitamins & supplements: do we really need them?} CONTRIBUTED BY KARIS TRESSEL, LICENSED NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR & OWNER OF SUNRISE NATURAL MEDICINE

“Most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death, their use is not justified, and they should be avoided.” That oft-quoted line is from a December 2013 Annals of Internal Medicine editorial. Making big headlines just before the holidays last year, this journal contained studies demonstrating that multivitamins do not prevent dementia or second heart attacks, nor do they clearly reduce incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease or all-cause death in the general adult population. These findings do not come as a surprise to health care practitioners who use nutrition, including supplementation, as a primary treatment method. It is easy to agree that, “most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death,” but calling a supplement’s overall use unjustified is throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

More than half of Americans regularly use some kind of health supplement. Unfortunately, the editorial is likely correct that most often these supplements provide few health benefits, and may actually be harmful. The one-size-fits-all approach that a multivitamin offers fails to consider nutrition requirements that vary hugely depending on a person’s diet, location, occupation, health history, medications, digestion and genetic ability to process vitamin forms. For some, a multivitamin will not offer enough of a nutrient to make any difference; for others, it can pack harmful excess. Consumers should think of vitamin and mineral supplements like prescription drugs: A person should use a particular form of a specific nutrient for a set amount of time to treat or prevent a certain endpoint.

To a lesser degree, carefully chosen nutrient supplementation can build overall health. People who are pregnant, cleansing or fasting, or undergoing certain medical therapies do appear to routinely benefit from high-quality multi-nutrient supplementation. The most important ways to achieve the health outcomes sought by these multivitamin studies do not entail taking pills of any kind. So what’s your best bet? Consume your multi vitamins in the form of a diet filled with a rainbow of vegetables (six to nine cups per day!), a moderate amount of meat from pastured animals and plenty of healthy fats (think fatty fish, avocados, olives, grass-fed butter). Furthermore, physical activity is proven to reduce the risk and improve the outcome of dementia, heart disease, cancer and almost every other chronic disease. Don’t forget to add sunshine, laughter and quality sleep. Health like that does not come from a bottle!

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EXPERT CONNECT

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how can i look younger without having surgery?

Dr. Farzin Kerendian can significantly improve acne scars, deep superficial wrinkles and pigmentation. The adjustability of strength of the laser allows Dr. Kerendian to treat stubborn wrinkles around the mouth and the delicate skin under the eyes. The treatment of excess skin under the eyes is so effective that this evolutionary technique has replaced risky surgical excision of skin underneath the eyes.

Dr. Kerendian uses the latest, most effective technique to address this issue. While this approach does not require serious surgery, it is performed in the office. Dr. Kerendian utilizes your own unwanted body fat, which contains stem cells. After special preparation, he transfers it to the area in the face and under the eyes that have lost the fat. This safe and effective method has minimal to no downtime, and the results are instant. Results may vary among patients; however, because it contains your stem cells, often the results may be permanent. Dr. Kerendian has extensive experience in this procedure, which has resulted in hundreds of satisfied patients.

After

FULL FACE LASER

Before

SmartXide Dot CO2 is one of the most successful and effective techniques for skin resurfacing to treat every type of wrinkle. The SmartXide Dot CO2 laser removes brown spots and undetected lesions that have the potential of turning into skin cancer. At the same time, it stimulates collagen, which removes your wrinkles, leaving you with younger, rejuvenated skin with a fresh glow.

After 1 Treatment

Turn back the signs of aging in only an hour with the most advanced technology in laser rejuvenation without surgery and anesthesia.

Before

UNDER EYE LASER ONLY

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Dr. Farzin Kerendian

(310) 274-4900 Century City Medical Plaza 2080 Century Park East #607 Century City, CA 90067

May 2014 路 bwellmagazine.com

get fit fab finds

{local gifts & treats}

Attention: Retail clothing stores, health food & nutrition shops, restaurants & delis, pet stores & more! Do you have an item you'd like to feature in Fab Finds? Call Lisa Whitten at 395-7563.

Pat Brown System An all-natural supplement line tailormade for those particular individuals who desire to look and feel their best. These products are available on amazon.com and at Lifetime Fitness, 2415 Eye St. patbrownsystem. com; 1-855-PBS-2DAY.

Nature’s Food Market & Juice Bar

A refreshing quasi-smoothie made up of dense greens, nuts, fruits and a special blend of super foods. This low-calorie, highprotein drink is nutritionally well balanced and provides lots of sustainable energy. A perfect “meal in a cup!” Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday. Visit the new location at 2000 H St. 327-4430; Facebook search: Nature’s Food Market and Juice Bar.

Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Lite Warmer weather is in full swing, and one important thing to take with you on hikes, walks or runs is a handheld water bottle. Now you can grab any water bottle and head out the door. The Amphidpod Hydraform Handheld Lite is ergonomically designed so your hand can relax as your carry it. Plus, it comes with a zippered compartment to hold your keys or gels. Sole 2 Soul Sports, 9000 Ming Ave., Suite K-1. 663-8000.

Privato Salon & Spa

Bleu Lavender Boutique

E AK

R SF

IELD CAL IFO

2014

AN NI

The Naked Bee is a high-quality, natural, personal care line made in the USA! It features all the good stuff your skin needs. The 70% certified organic lotion, lip balm and foot balm are great for moisturizing your hands and body. Available at Bleu Lavender Boutique, 1520 19th St. 322-8800; Facebook search: Bleu Lavender Boutique

FAVORITE RE

B Well Magazine · May 2014

E R S’

CH O IC E

No need to use those harsh hotel shampoos and conditioners when you travel. Protect your hair and travel beautifully with Oribe’s travel sizes. 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 306; 587-2566; privatosalonandspa.com

get fit workout moves

The Ultimate Workout for Moms On The Go CONTRIBUTED BY GINA ROLOW, BS, CSCS, PERSONAL TRAINER & OWNER OF BODYBYGINA PROFESSIONAL PERSONAL TRAINING PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

The fear of bulking up or looking like a female body builder has long kept many women out of the weight room. Strength is often an overlooked component of physical health. However, functional training is vital training.

>| WHY STRENGTH TRAINING IS GOOD FOR WOMEN Women, especially mothers, can reap physical and mental benefits of weight training. Women become better moms because exercise releases common stresses of life. Exercise is not just about burning calories. It aids in weight control (i.e. a decrease in waist circumference and abdominal fat), lowers blood-sugar levels (diabetes) and prevents depression. Every sweat drop that falls to the ground can represent the release of a stressful moment in life.

>| BENEFITS OF WORKING YOUR LOWER BODY Working out the largest muscles produces the most bang for your buck. Take the squat, for example. The squat activates the body’s biggest muscles, those in the buttocks, back and legs. Squats and other large muscle group exercises are also great at combating sarcopenia — the inevitable and debilitating loss of muscle mass that accompanies advancing age. Lower body strength also increases stamina. By strengthening the muscles of your lower body over time, you can burn more calories because lean muscle burns more calories than fat. If you’re trying to lose weight, this can be a huge boost to your fitness goals!If you’re still not convinced that weight training is for you, try these six exercises. Over a very short period, you will feel stronger and tighter, have better posture and more energy! Moms, this workout is made for you!

Tina Green

{BARBELL HIP THRUST} Muscles worked = Hips, butt and core

TO MODIFY: Lie on floor.

Knees bent, knees above ankles. Flex your feet so toes point toward your hips. Bridge (lift your hips) up and down, squeezing each rep.

f STEP 1: Sit on floor, knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lean your upper back against a bench and place a barbell across your hips.

STEP 2: Hold with both hands. STEP 3: Pushing through your heels, raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from shoulders to knees.

STEP 4: Slowly lower the weight back to start. Do 12 to 15 reps.

TO ADVANCE: Try doing

this with one leg in air above you, and lift from hips, not the leg. Do 12-15 reps.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

get fit workout moves {GOBLET SQUAT}

{SQUAT SHOULDER PRESS}

Muscles worked = Legs, butt and inner thigh

Muscles worked = Legs, glutes, hamstrings, shoulders and triceps

TO MODIFY:

Eliminate the weight and place a chair behind you. Try and touch the chair so that thighs are parallel. Do 12 to 15 reps.

STEP 1: Hold one end of a dumbbell with both hands, elbows bent and hold weight tucked into body (as if holding a goblet glass of water).

STEP 2: Turn toes outward in a pli茅 stance, squat down as low as you can, holding core tight so as not to lean forward. Do 12 to 15 reps.

STEP 1: Place a bench or chair behind you.

{SIDE PLANK WITH CLAMSHELL} Muscles worked = Obliques, core, shoulders and outer thighs

STEP 1: Lie on your side and place left forearm on the floor and elbow directly under your shoulder. Bend your knees and stack your right leg on top of your left leg.

STEP 3: From this position, rotate your right knee toward the ceiling, keeping your feet together. Do 12 to 15 reps.

STEP 2: Raise your hips to create a straight line from shoulder to knees and place your right hand on hip.

STEP 2: Holding on to a 5-to 10-pound dumbbell in each hand, feet shoulder width apart, sit back into a squat position, trying to get your butt to touch the chair or bench. STEP 3: When you squat, take

{FULL PLANK OR MODIFIED PUSHUPS }

weights above head to a shoulder press, touch or kiss the weights together. Repeat 10 to 12 reps.

Muscles worked = Chest, shoulders, triceps and core

STEP 1: Begin on floor, with hands shoulder width apart, keeping body in a straight line. Feet and toes together, preferably, but OK to widen stance at first. Head is level with neck, and chin should be the first to touch the ground (if able to go that far down).

B Well Magazine 路 May 2014

STEP 2: When placing hands on the floor, think of an imaginary line between them and that your chest is hovering above that line. STEP 3: Keeping core tight, lower your body toward the floor, exhaling on the pushup or upward phase of movement. Perform as many as possible correctly.

TO MODIFY: Place knees on floor,

eliminating some of the lever length. Once you can achieve 10 correctly, try full plank pushups.

{SUPERWOMAN}

Muscles worked = Deltoids, lats, erector spinae and glutes

STEP 1: Lie facedown with legs extended, holding a weight in both hands and arms extended forward.

STEP 2: Raise legs up to about 2 feet above the floor, and arms about 1 foot.

STEP 3: Hold for 2

counts, lower to start position, do 1 to 12 reps.

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get fit diet diary

B Well‘s Get Fit Weight-Loss Challenge Reggan & Brandon: Looking to Make Lifestyle Changes COMPILED BY HILLARY HAENES PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Four months after starting their nine-month weight-loss challenge and lifestyle change, Reggan Scrivner and Brandon Thompson have lost several inches all over their body, lowered their body fat percentages, and are learning the dos and don’ts of eating a healthy, balanced diet. Reggan and Brandon have hit a plateau in shedding pounds, but that doesn’t mean they have given up. Read about their short setback and how these two busy participants plan to push themselves even harder for their big reveal in B Well Magazine’s November issue.

"... I know I'm becoming stronger every day." Reggan Scrivner GETTING STARTED AND BREAKING DOWN I started this journey very gung ho in January. I enjoyed the diet because it was simple and my entire family enjoyed me cooking more often. We were on a road to eating healthier, and I was excited since it didn’t feel like I was on a diet. I felt very accomplished when I completed my workouts. After the first month, the scale didn’t move. Waking up at 4:30 a.m. to make it to my workout seemed to get harder. Then, I felt like I was eating the same old things every day and eventually shimmied away from my diet. Being a single working mom, my time is limited and I found that the time and energy was taking to work out and prepare food was taking its toll. There was one week when I finally broke down. I cried and thought that I couldn’t do this anymore. The process felt like it was taking away from my normal life, and I quickly became overwhelmed. I fought through the tears and decided to press forward. I knew I would never succeed if I quit. INSPIRATION INSTEAD OF HUMILIATION The workouts are my favorite part of the challenge. In the beginning, I used the lightest of the kettle bells. I would look at some of the other women using the heaviest kettle bell and couldn’t believe they could lift it. I have finally hit the point where I can use the heavy kettle bell for most of the exercises and it feels great. Even though the scale is not moving as fast as I would like, I know I’m becoming stronger every day. I used to feel intimidated by some of the ladies who work out in the 5 a.m. class, but instead of letting that bring me down, I started to look up to them as inspiration. I wasn’t going to feel humiliated anymore. I have not reached my goal, but that is not stopping me. In the before photo end, it comes down to determination! Starting Measurements Current — 4 Months

Reggan Scrivner and Brandon Thompson

Height: 5’7”

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Weight: 168 lbs. Body Fat: 25.2 % Lean Muscle: 125 lbs. Total Fat: 42 lbs. Chest: 42 in. Arms: 12.5 in. Thighs: 22.5 in. Waist at Navel: 40.5 in. Hips at Glutes: 42 in.

Weight: 165 lbs. Body Fat: 24% Lean Muscle: 126 lbs. Total Fat: 40 lbs. Chest: 41.5 in. Arms: 11.5 in. Thighs: 21.5 in. Waist at Navel: 38.5 in. Hips at Glutes: 40.5 in.

get fit diet diary

Brandon Thompson OFF WITH A BANG We are about four months into our healthier lifestyle. I have seen and felt many changes already, including loose-fitting clothes. It would be a complete lie if I said that anything about this journey so far has been easy. About the easiest thing is the ability to appreciate and feel the changes, and ironically, the hardest is continuing these changes. I started out with a bang with huge fat-loss numbers right off the bat! That got me cocky and over confident that things could keep going with minimal changes made to my diet. It hasn’t been that easy since. The workouts great. The personal training is a challenge, and the group of guys I work out with makes it easy to push myself. I find myself reaching new weight goals almost every workout. The work day is better after my morning workouts, but what scares me are the dietary changes. THE CHALLENGES OF DIETARY CHANGES I have known that our family’s dining habits were never the best, but you don’t know how poorly you have been eating until you reach the point that you don’t see any changes to your body. That’s where I am at. I have no problems with my breakfast/lunch shakes or my healthy morning/afternoon snacks of the usual apples, almonds or raisins. Dinner is what does me in every damn day (In case some of you have forgotten, I have a 3-year-old and a pregnant wife at home). They both support a healthier lifestyle, but the implementation of this lifestyle is somewhat lagging. We received news the other day that will force the issue at home. Due to some family and hereditary histories, along with questionable eating habits, my wife has developed gestational diabetes. A dietary change is no longer something just for me, but something that our entire family must now do.

My goal “is to lead a healthy & happy life.”

CHANGING ROUTINES I have spent the last month and a half studying for my Land Surveyor Boards and those study “routines” have completely disrupted my workout and healthy routine that was just put into place. My exam was on April 14, so moving forward, my goal for the rest of this adventure is to prioritize my routines and re-focus on the goals at hand: To become a healthier person, eat healthier foods and build a leaner body. Most importantly, it is to lead a healthy and happy life. I want to be that example for my family. Lately, I feel like I may be letting them down in regards to their and my health... But there is always next month, right? before photo

Starting Measurements

Current — 4 Months

Weight: 254 lbs. Body Fat: 28.2 % Lean Muscle: 182 lbs. Total Fat: 72 lbs. Chest: 47.5 in. Arms: 16 in. Thighs: 25.5 in. Waist at navel: 43.5 in. Hips at Glutes: 45 in.

Weight: 246 lbs. Body Fat: 23.3% Lean Muscle: 191 lbs. Total Fat: 58 lbs. Chest: 46.5 in. Arms: 15.5 in. Thighs: 27.5 in. Waist at Navel: 42.5 in. Hips at Glutes: 48 in.

Height: 6’2”

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

get fit diet diary

Trainer Tim Gojich Brandon is doing better than he thinks. The fact that he has cut back on beer has been a huge step in his body fat reduction and new lean muscle gain. He has more to give me in terms of discipline and making good choices, but I have no doubt that he will. He has a loss of 9 pounds of fat while gaining 9 pounds of lean tissue, an overall drop of 5% in body fat. That is really good! The lean muscle will play a huge role in dropping more fat. If he follows the diet at least 80% of the time, he will drop about 2 pounds of fat a week. This would equal around 35 pounds in the next five months, putting him in a good place. For Reggan, it is a little more work. She does not have the luxury that Brandon has when it comes to eating sloppy and being able to offset it with having a bunch of lean muscle. Women have to work twice as hard on the diet end of things.

The challenge is managing her workouts and diet with her personal life and sticking to it. It can be challenging to want to give in to the birthday parties or extra sweets, but this lifestyle change is doable. My goal is to get her to think like a lean responsible adult. Again, if we continue to stick with the plan, the numbers will improve. Overall, both are headed in the right direction if they come to the gym at least four days a week, eat healthier foods and follow Fit For Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fat Loss Meal Plan. All of this plays a major role in developing a lifestyle pattern that will not only get them leaner, but keep them lean. One of the biggest factors in attaining weight loss results and maintaining it are your friends, family and co-workers. Establishing a group of people who support your efforts instead of pulling you back to your old ways will be a major part of this change. Brandon and Reggan are both currently trying to establish a support system that includes Fit For Life Gym.

get fit golf column Donna Tirp, Jeanni Smith, Jacque Servadio, Debi Brley and Carolina Martinez at Kern River Golf Course.

“Golf provides tremendous physical and cardiovascular benefits.”- Donna Tirp challenge. They show up with old hand-medown clubs from their mom or grandma from the 1960s or even older, and sometimes even with their husband’s old set that he doesn’t use anymore. I cringe and then educate them on the importance of playing with clubs that will help, not hinder, them.

Getting Ladies on the Links

CONTRIBUTED BY JACQUE SERVADIO, LPGA CLASS A TEACHING PROFESSIONAL AT KERN RIVER GOLF COURSE PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Ladies, are you tinkering with taking up the game of golf? A lot of women are starting the game because not only is golf good exercise, it’s also a lot of fun and challenging at the same time. “Golf provides tremendous physical and cardiovascular benefits,” said Donna Tirp, who plays Kern River Golf Course weekly. “Golf tones my legs and strengthens my core. Other activities might burn the same number of calories; none are nearly as fun as golf,” Tirp said. Health benefits aside, the golf course is a great place to meet new people and network with business associates.

Here are a few things to consider when starting out:

>FIRST OF ALL, PROPER EQUIPMENT IS A MUST. Many women come to my lesson with incompatible golf clubs, which makes learning the game even more of a 50

B Well Magazine · May 2014

> THE TWO MOST CRITICAL THINGS TO CONSIDER IN A CLUB ARE THE LENGTH AND THE SHAFT FLEX. We need to make sure the length is right for you. Just because you purchased ladies’ clubs doesn’t always mean the length is correct. You may need a petite length if you are less than 5 feet 3 inches tall, or a men’s length if you are taller than 5 feet 7 inches tall. If the clubs are too long or too short, it will definitely affect the direction of the ball. > THE FLEX OF THE CLUB SHAFT IS VERY IMPORTANT. It’s crucial because it will help you hit the ball straighter, farther and higher. If you’re hitting men’s clubs, it is very likely the shafts are too stiff, which will affect your distance and direction. This is why the right fit is so important — one set of clubs does not fit all. If you are looking to purchase a set of clubs and would like some assistance, I can help you determine what flex and length of clubs to purchase. > LAST BUT NOT LEAST — PROPER INSTRUCTION. There is an old saying in golf, “If it feels comfortable, you’re doing it wrong.” And this is so true! Don’t try to go at it alone or let your friend or husband show you how — you will only become frustrated and likely give up. If you’re interested in starting the game or want to improve your current skill level, visit the “Ladies Only” link on my website at jsgolfinstruction.com for more information.

........................ EXPERT CONNECT .......................... WHAT IS PHANTOM PAIN AND HOW MAY I ALLEVIATE IT? Phantom pain is the feeling that the amputated limb is still present. This can feel like cramping, aching, burning or shock-like sensation. Development of this pain can vary in time but ranges from immediate to years after amputation. To some degree, most amputees will experience this, and 5% to 10% of them will need to seek medical care because of the significance of pain. The name “phantom” explains its mysterious origins and understandings. Researchers have discovered the concept of brain reorganization, which studies how lost brain input from the nerves of the amputated limb is reactivated to respond to nerves of the remaining limb. Pressures on the limb may trigger the brain to respond to the lost nerves on the missing limb, which creates the phantom pain. Research has shown that if the lost nerves for brain input are electrically stimulated, the amputee can feel sensations in their missing limb. Some contributing factors of phantom pain include age, stress, anxiety, fear and/or fatigue. There are many therapies that can be used to alleviate the pain, such as acupuncture, biofeedback, chiropractic and surgery. Home remedies may also differ among each amputee and should be discussed with their prosthetist or physician. Some patients have wrapped their residual limb with a hot, warm or cold pack/towel and have applied cooling creams or gels, depending on what works for them. Phantom pain can be a mental game as well. Some patients have used mental exercises and relaxation to alleviate symptoms. This includes tightening the muscles in the residual limb and slowly releasing. A helpful tool is to log when the pain occurs to identify triggers, so those triggers may be reduced or eliminated.

Any further questions may be discussed with your prosthetist or physician. It is important to remember that with patience, the right remedy may be found for your phantom pain.

Logan M. Newton, CP, BOCO Board Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist

2624 F Street (661) 323-5944 ACHILLESPO.COM May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

healthy bites healthy indulgence

Oh, Honey! COMPILED BY B WELL MAGAZINE

With summer just around the corner, we found a few recipes from the National Honey Board that are perfect for your next barbecue. Not only are they nutritious but these recipes also tap into the power of local raw honey for allergy sufferers. If you haven’t tried Kern Honey’s Bakersfield Blend, then visit Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins or Nature’s Food Market & Juice Bar to pick up a jar and give it a taste. Just by consuming a couple of spoonfuls of local raw honey a day (mix it in your hot tea, oatmeal or these recipes), you may slightly relieve allergy symptoms. Visit kernhoney.com to learn the additional benefits of local honey.

Honey Kiwi Raspberry Fruit Dip 1 ripe kiwi, peeled and diced 1/2 cup unsweetened frozen raspberries 1/2 cup pure local honey 8 ounces low-fat Greek vanilla yogurt Fresh fruit for dipping DIRECTIONS In the bowl of a food processor, combine kiwi, raspberries and honey and puree. Stir in yogurt. Serve with sliced fresh fruit, such as strawberries, pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, grapes or bananas.

Honey Cucumber Salad 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced and halved 1/4 cup pure local honey 1/2 cup white balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar) 1/4 cup water 2 tablespoons red onion, diced Pinch of sea salt DIRECTIONS Place cucumbers in bowl and sprinkle with sea salt. Toss and set aside. In a small mixing bowl, stir together honey, white balsamic vinegar, water and diced red onions. Pour the mixture over the cucumbers and toss together. Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for about one hour prior to serving.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

DIRECTIONS Rinse whole lettuce leaves and pat dry. Add 2 teaspoons of oil to a large skillet, sauté the chicken over medium heat until cooked thoroughly, about 7 to 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and water chestnuts and cook for 4 to 6 minutes. In a medium bowl, whisk together remaining oil, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and honey until thoroughly mixed. Add chicken, carrots and almonds. To serve, scoop chicken mixture onto a lettuce leaf. Wrap the lettuce around the meat burrito-style.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Source: honey.com

1 tablespoon walnut or peanut oil 1¼ pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce 2 tablespoons pure local honey 1 cup shredded carrots 1/3 cup sliced almonds 12 whole leaves Bibb, Boston or butter lettuce 3/4 cup fresh mushrooms, chopped (optional) 1 8-ounce can of water chestnuts, drained and diced (optional)

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healthy bites fit foodies

Owner Joe Coughlin started Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill in 1987. Through the years, he has stuck with his vision of laid back, healthy food options combined with a supportive “una familia” (one family) of his employees, ensuring that customers enjoy a relaxing, stress-free vibe at his beach shack. The décor is also a big part of that — it felt like we were in Hawaii! Some of the healthy highlights on the menu are the antibiotic- and hormone-free chicken; marinades made with fresh fruit juices — mainly pineapple and acidic citrus; the beans are cooked in water and spices, not lard; fish — Wahoo and Alaskan cod — filleted on boats and flash frozen for fresh, thick cuts ready for Coughlin’s talented kitchen crew. If you keep in mind that a great restaurant owner will practice what they preach and enjoy what they serve, then you can tell by looking at the fit and healthy Coughlin family that they serve some incredible food. Coughlin laughed as he divulged that it is not unusual for him to come home to find shrimp tacos or a Glop bowl (rice, beans, coleslaw and salsa) from the restaurant sitting on the table for dinner because it is just that good. PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Editor’s Note: The B Well Fit Foodies are back in their quest to find local eateries that offer healthy menu options to help you make smarter dining choices. Their restaurant reviews appear regularly in B Well Magazine.

It’s quite a relief for those in search of “healthier” fare on menus to come across a restaurant that caters to their preference. Yes, you may also find high-caloric fish and chips or burgers on the Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill menu, but you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that these typically unhealthy items are actually somewhat better than your average restaurant’s food. There are lighter options to choose from on the menu, too.

Fit Foodies hangin' loose at Coconut Joe's

Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill Address: 4158 California Ave. Phone: 327-1378 Website: coconutjoes.com Hours: 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Coughlin is as passionate about life as he is about his food. He was eager to share his vision for Coconut College, his umbrella philosophy under which he shares stories and life lessons with college-aged kids. He believes too many of us have become “viewers of life, not doers of life,” and he enjoys sharing ways that we can reconnect with activities that give greater meaning and fulfillment to our lives. To Coughlin, “health is the first wealth,” and that means healthy food, a healthy outlook and a healthy lifestyle. It’s not surprising that Coughlin is on the go most of the time, but we were fortunate to catch him on a day that he was in town to learn firsthand about his restaurant and life philosophy.

Benjamin on the grilled shrimp tacos: Although I predominately eat a plantbased diet, I do enjoy seafood occasionally. Shrimp are high in cholesterol, but low in saturated fat and a good source of protein. A recent addition to Coconut Joe’s extensive menu, the grilled shrimp taco plate is a must-try during your next visit. Juicy grilled shrimp are topped with crisp shredded cabbage and pico de gallo, then double-wrapped in warm, slightly crisp corn tortillas and finished with a homemade chipotle-teriyaki sauce. The taste and quality of these tacos rivals those that I’ve eaten in Hawaii and Mexico.

Nicola on the mesquite chicken salad: I am a salad girl — when I go out to eat, the salad section is typically the first area I check out. I love finding options like this that are full of flavor, texture and color, but allow me to stay on track with my healthy food choices. The chicken is tender, juicy and flavorful, thanks to the fruit juice marinade. Under the chicken is a bed of lettuce, chopped cucumber and tomatoes tossed in a light dressing. Served with tortillas, this was a perfect meal. Even better, share a salad and some shrimp tacos with a friend to get the best of both worlds!

The Baker Family

When it matters most, count on us!

FIT FOODIES

Personal care or nursing care at home

H E A LT H C A R E

Dr. Benjamin Ha, is a Kaiser Permanente family physician. He actively promotes a whole foods, plant-based diet for his patients to help prevent and reverse chronic illness.

Leigh Pozas is the owner/ operator, trainer and instructor at Total Woman Fitness & Training Centers. Leigh has 25 years of experience in the health and fitness business.

Joel Livesey is 36 years old and living with Type 1 diabetes. He believes nutrition is the key ingredient to his successes as a runner, as it is 90% of his strategy.

When Mom or Dad can no longer live alone, call BAKERSFIELD SENIOR PLACEMENT Darlyn Baker RN & family owned

Nicola Wright is a fitness and nutrition coach, Turbo Kick instructor, WarmLine volunteer and host of the “Get Fit With Nicola” on the 101.5 KGFM morning show.

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Leigh on the Honowoowoo chicken bowl : Traditionally, I have always ordered the chicken plate with rice, beans and tortillas, feeling that it was (and is) a healthy choice. But there was an option on the menu that I have been missing. The Honowoowoo chicken bowl is delicious and nutritious! It was a wonderful blend of Coconut Joe’s chicken, marinated in real fruit juices, lightly glazed with teriyaki and steamed vegetables served over rice with either a roll or tortilla (which I did not need!). The serving size was generous, but not ridiculous, enough to fill you up and not fill you out! This dish is a good choice, and I will definitely order it again. Coconut Joe’s is a great local restaurant where you can get freshly cooked healthy food. The atmosphere is fun and friendly. I will be a continuing frequent customer.

Joel on the fish and chips: Coconut Joe’s fish and chips ... cowabunga! The best in town! We were presented with a basket of hand-cut, wild Pacific Northwest true Alaskan cod filets that were light, crisp and well prepared. Cod is perfect for fish and chips! It is loaded with protein, B vitamins, omega 3 oils, and has a firm but delicate texture with mild flavor. Many restaurants serve imitation cod that is previously frozen and heavily battered to disguise the taste. At Coconut Joe’s, this is not the case. In fact, a lot of people might think that fried battered fish is extremely unhealthy because the batter is loaded with calories and fat. However, when it comes to frying fish, batter is needed to hold the shape as the flesh of the fish may fall apart without it. Coconut Joe’s does a nice job using a lightly seasoned batter, careful not to disguise the true flavor of the fish. Having lived on the coast for a number of years, I definitely didn’t expect such fresh fish and chips in Bakersfield. It was good for the soul.

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healthy bites chew on this

Cucumbers are in season

COMPILED BY RYAN BARRERA

Cucumbers are a refreshing vegetable that can be eaten alone as a snack, or added to sandwiches and salads for a crunchy bite. This veggie is a member of the gourd family Cucurbitaceae, which belongs to the same family as melons and squashes. Cucumbers come in an array of sizes, but commercial production of this vegetable is usually divided into “slicing cucumbers” and “pickling cucumbers.” The small crisp Persian or Kirby varieties are perfect for a salad or pickles. The cucumber originated in Southern Asia, but it now grows on almost every continent and is the fourth most cultivated vegetable in the world. Not only can you get potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and other vitamins from this green snack, but this vegetable can also help keep you hydrated because it’s are made of 95% water. SELECT: Choose a firm, unwaxed cucumber without wrinkles or soft spots. The cucumber should be bright medium to dark green in color. Avoid cucumbers that are yellow, puffy and have withered ends. STORE: This vegetable can be sensitive to heat and will wilt and become limp if left at room temperature. They are best stored in the refrigerator for up to one week before going bad. PREP: Wash with cool running water

Creamy Cucumber Soup (eatingwell.com)

Ingredients 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 small onion, diced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 4 cups peeled, seeded and thinly sliced cucumbers, divided 1½ cups vegetable broth, or reduced-sodium chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper Pinch of cayenne pepper 1 avocado, diced 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish 1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt

Directions Heat oil in a large saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Add garlic and onion; cook, stir occasionally until tender, about 1 to 4 minutes. Add lemon juice and cook for 1 minute. Add 3 3/4 cups cucumber slices, broth, salt, pepper and cayenne; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook at a gentle simmer until the cucumbers are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the soup to a blender. Add avocado and parsley; blend on low speed until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Pour into a serving bowl and stir in yogurt. Chop the remaining 1/4 cup cucumber slices. Serve the soup warm or refriger ate and serve it chilled. Just before serving, garnish with the chopped cucumber and more chopped parsley, if desired.

while gently scrubbing the skin with a natural bristle brush. Cucumbers can be cut in a variety of ways: sliced, diced or julienned.

FUN FACTS: · Cucumbers relieve bad breath. Hold a slice of cucumber with your tongue to the roof of your mouth; the phytochemicals in cucumbers will kill the bacteria responsible for bad breath. · “Cool as a cucumber” is actually derived from the cucumber’s ability to cool the temperature of the blood. When you apply it topically, the cucumber cools the blood and eases facial swelling, which is why cucumbers are so popular in facial regimens. · Cucumbers are a great source of B vitamins and carbohydrates that can provide an afternoon pick-me-up. · The biggest cucumber ever grown was in southern China, measuring 67 inches long and weighed 154 pounds.

Sauteed Cucumbers (marthastewart.com)

Nutrition Facts: ½ cup cucumber slices = 8 cal., 0g fat, 2g carbs, 1g sugar, 2% vitamin C

Ingredients 1 medium English cucumber 1 tablespoon butter 1/4 teaspoon salt Chopped fresh dill or parsley Directions Peel cucumber and cut into large chunks. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cucumber and salt and cook, tossing occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Serve sprinkled with dill or parsley.

cucumber & cream cheese sandwiches

B Well Magazine · May 2014

basil & crabmeat topped cucumbers

cucumber salsa

wellness & wonder real success stories

GREENFIELD WALKING GROUP Neighborhood Watch Meets Community Fitness Activists WRITTEN BY KELLY DAMIAN PHOTOGRAPHS BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Every morning Griset Lopez ties a spangled wrap across her hips and, as the cumbia and salsa music blasts over the speakers, she dances and jokes around in her local park. When one of the instructors of the Zumba class at Stiern Park needs a break, Lopez jumps to the front of the group and leads the class in a hip-shaking, calorie-torching dance routine.

Contributed Photo

B Well Magazine · May 2014

It’s hard to imagine that when she started coming to the park one year ago, Lopez felt shy dancing in front of others and was 40 pounds heavier. “It makes you feel good,” the 37-yearold said in Spanish.

“It’s one hour, but it changes everything.”

wellness & wonder real success stories

HEALTHY CHANGES The Greenfield Walking Group — the group responsible for the morning Zumba classes — has changed more than just bodies.

During the first week, five women walked for half an hour. Then the next week more women joined.

In 2005, Zalyflor Loya, Rosalba Martinez, Maria Pena, Marta Montes de Oca and Gema Perez took a nutrition class together. Along with improving their diets, they wanted to make exercise a regular part of their lives, but joining a gym was too costly and their local park was unsafe, Perez said.

“Little by little, more people came,” Perez said.

Stiern Park was littered with trash, dog feces and graffiti. The lights were broken; the playground equipment was damaged and cordoned off by yellow caution tape. The only people who spent time there were drug dealers. “The park needs to belong to the people,” Perez said in Spanish. The women asked the police department for help. Every day for 30 minutes, a police officer would arrive at the park to assure the women’s safety while they walked.

As the group grew in strength, so did the women’s determination to make the park safe for everyone. The women called Kern County Animal Control for help with stray animals and reached out to the city for graffiti removal. They invited Mayor Harvey Hall to come walk with them and gave him the challenge of pushing a baby stroller along the bumpy, uneven ground. With the help of local agencies, a grant from the Robert Johnson Foundation and community volunteers, Stiern Park was transformed. The lights were fixed. The broken play structure was replaced. A new sidewalk was poured. The drug dealers left and families returned to the park. (Continued on page 60)

Participants gather together after the Zumba class.

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

wellness & wonder real success stories

Neighborhood participants enjoy Zumba in the park.

(Continued from page 59)

FROM ACTIVE TO ACTIVISTS In 2006, the group started incorporating calisthenics into their walking routine. Then they started playing music, evolving their morning exercise into the Zumba classes they hold today. In 2010, Perez noticed that several women who attended the class lived near Rexland Acres Park. Even though their park was in a state of disrepair and the site of criminal activity, Perez said she encouraged them to start their own Zumba class.

“Zumba is the magnet,” she said. Once neighbors were drawn out of their houses and into the park, the Greenfield Walking Group labored to improve Rexland Acres Park in the same way that they had brought families back to Stiern Park. They brought community members and public officials together to work toward a common goal. Their work continues to grow in new directions. The Greenfield Walking Group started a community garden a few blocks away from where they dance and many women head to work in the garden after their morning exercise. Community agencies and organizations like the American Lung Association, The American Heart Association and Dignity Health often ask the group for help spreading the word about workshops, classes and health events. Recently, Perez and other members of the group visited Lamont to speak to residents there about using their model to better the community’s health and safety. Perez doesn’t see her group’s momentum slowing soon. Instead, she said each success “makes you want to do more.”

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Or if your unhappy with your current provider....? We have 60 DIFFERENT

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wellness & wonder your body

{fun & interesting facts about veins}

CONTRIBUTED BY GREGORY WILLIAMS, MD, MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF SOUTH VALLEY VEIN CENTER

Treatment of large, bulging veins is often covered by insurance, including Medicare. Varicose veins are enlarged, superficial veins in which blood flow is slowed or even reversed. They are a result from stretching of the vein walls and malfunction of the valves that normally direct blood back to the heart.

Post-treatment pain varies from one patient to another but most require only acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen for any discomfort.

Some symptoms of varicose veins are aching pain that may get worse after sitting or standing for a long period of time, throbbing or cramping, heaviness, swelling, itchy rash or irritated or restless legs.

........................

Factors associated with the development of varicose veins include gender, increased age, pregnancy, blood clots and jobs requiring long periods of standing.

......................

Untreated varicose veins may

lead toCONNECT other health problems, EXPERT

such as swelling, ulceration, bleeding and an increased risk for blood clots. But these symptoms may be avoided when varicose veins are treated early enough.

I have painful varicose veins why, and what can I do about them? This is NoT Your MoTher’s VeiN TreaTMeNT

The Duplex ultrasound is a simple, painless advanced technological test that measures the Whether you’re bothered by the appearance of unsightly veins or direction of blood flow and shows can no longer stand or exercise for long periods without feeling pain any venous reflux precisely. and pressure in your legs, don’t put off getting the help you deserve. Technology and new techniques now make it possible to provide relief for varicose and spider veins in-office without pain, risks or downtime.

Unlike the old-fashioned vein stripping procedures requiring a hospital stay and weeks of recovery, today’s vein treatment is simple and efficient. Non-surgical vein treatments are performed with the use of only local anesthesia, so patients have no major downtime, incisions or scarring.

A proper diagnosis of your condition is critical to getting the results you deserve. Tiny blue dilated blood vessels, called spider veins, can be the earliest sign of a vein disorder. A bulging varicose vein is a Sclerotherapy is the most common treatprominent sign that tiny valves in the veins in your legs have stopped ment for both spider veins and varicose working efficiently. It indicates a condition called venous reflux, which veins. A needle is used to inject a liquid is not life threatening but should not be ignored.

chemical into the vein, which causes the

If left untreated, both varicose veins and spider veins will continue vein walls to swell, stick together and to worsen and become more painful. Varicose veins can develop into shut. This stops the flow of blood, serious skin ulcerations, bleeding or a higher risk for blood seal clots that require more extensive medical treatment. and the vein turns into scar tissue. In a

few weeks, the vein should fade.

TreaTMeNTs ThaT ProMise healThier, haPPier legs Both men and women can develop bulging varicose veins, which often grow larger over time, becoming more of a health risk than a cosmetic problem.

Gregory Williams, MD a native of Bakersfield and medical director of the South Valley Vein Center, is a board-certified phlebologist (vein specialist) and surgeon. He has been serving the Kern County area Today’s advanced treatments give you rapid relief using no incisions, since 1995 and was the first physician in the county or only tiny ones. In many cases, you can resume all normal activities to perform innovative immediately after your vein procedure. Up to 25% of women andthe18% of and minimally invasive procedures that are now considered state-of-the-art men will suffer with varicose veins. You don’t have to suffer the pain or embarrassment of problem veins. treatment for varicose veins both Contact a vein specialist to have your legs screened andIf learn moreparents have venous insuffiabout your treatment options. ciency, chances are close to 90%

to developing varicose veins. Varicose veins, if left untreated, can lead to an increased risk for blood clots.

Brought to you by

(661) 654-8346

1500 Haggin Oaks Boulevard, #202 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 654-8337 Fax Visit our website for more information: www.SVVeinCenter.com

B Well Magazine · May 2014

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

........................

EXPERT CONNECT

..........................

I have painful varicose veins why, and what can I do about them? This is NoT Your MoTher’s VeiN TreaTMeNT Whether you’re bothered by the appearance of unsightly veins or can no longer stand or exercise for long periods without feeling pain and pressure in your legs, don’t put off getting the help you deserve. Technology and new techniques now make it possible to provide relief for varicose and spider veins in-office without pain, risks or downtime. A proper diagnosis of your condition is critical to getting the results you deserve. Tiny blue dilated blood vessels, called spider veins, can be the earliest sign of a vein disorder. A bulging varicose vein is a prominent sign that tiny valves in the veins in your legs have stopped working efficiently. It indicates a condition called venous reflux, which is not life-threatening but should not be ignored. If left untreated, both varicose veins and spider veins will continue to worsen and become more painful. Varicose veins can develop into serious skin ulcerations, bleeding or a higher risk for blood clots that require more extensive medical treatment.

TreaTMeNTs ThaT ProMise healThier, haPPier legs Today’s advanced treatments give you rapid relief using no incisions, or only tiny ones. In many cases, you can resume all normal activities immediately after your vein procedure. You don’t have to suffer the pain or embarrassment of problem veins. Contact a vein specialist to have your legs screened and learn more about your treatment options.

Gregory Williams, MD, a native of Bakersfield and medical director of the South Valley Vein Center, is a board-certified phlebologist (vein specialist) and surgeon. He has been serving the Kern County area since 1995 and was the first physician in the county to perform the innovative and minimally invasive procedures that are now considered state-of-the-art treatment for varicose veins.

(661) 735-1346 1500 Haggin Oaks Boulevard, #202 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 654-8337 Fax Visit our website for more information: www.SVVeinCenter.com May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

wellness & wonder what happens when..

{...I get tested for allergies}

CONTRIBUTED BY ERIC BOREN, MD, FACAAI, FAAAI & TONNY TANUS, MD, FACAAI, FAAAI OF KERN ALLERGY MEDICAL CLINIC, INC

Allergy symptoms are easy to describe for more than one-third of people who suffer from them. Having red, puffy, itchy eyes with tearing not only make you uncomfortable but can also lead to the awkward question, “Are you crying?” Sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, headaches, nasal drainage, throat clearing, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath are also unwanted effects of allergies. 1 | WHAT IS AN ALLERGY? An allergy technically means that your immune system has made an antibody, such as immunoglobulin E (IgE), specifically against the allergic antibody. Whether it is pollen, mold, house dust mites, pets, food, penicillin or bee stings, allergic individuals have made these specific IgE antibodies diffusely in their blood, skin and tissues. These allergic antibodies are waiting for exposure to allergens. After the exposure, the interaction of the allergic IgE antibody and allergen results in a microscopic explosion of allergic chemicals, including histamine and numerous others. It is the inflammation in the affected tissues that causes the classic symptoms associated with allergies.

arms along with FDA-approved liquid extracts of actual pollens, mold, pets, house dust, foods, venoms, etc. There is no bleeding and the skin test prick is only mildly uncomfortable. If you are allergic you will feel mild itching on your back. The official reading the skin test results are available 20 minutes later. Each item tested is carefully measured so that the doctor can interpret the results. If itchiness occurs, an anti-itch cream can be applied and an oral antihistamine can be taken. Ifan allergic reaction occurs the small bumps generally resolve in a few hours.

2 | WHAT TYPES OF ALLERGY TESTS ARE THERE? The point of allergy testing is to search for these allergic antibodies. Two methods are available: blood testing and skin testing. Although blood allergy testing is available, it remains generally less accurate and fewer specific items can be tested due to the relatively large volume of blood needed. Allergy skin testing remains the gold standard for accuracy and thoroughness.

Sponsored by Kern Allergy Medical Clinic, Inc. B Well Magazine · May 2014

5 | FINDING OUT YOUR RESULTS After the prick or patch skin tests are completed, your doctor will go over the results in detail. You will learn the cause of the inflammation that triggers your allergy or asthma symptoms. If food allergies are present, they will be reviewed in detail as well, with strict avoidance urged. Allergy skin testing allows your doctor to educate you about your triggers, aide in avoidance, and will help to guide treatment options, including choices of medications and/or immunotherapy or desensitization. After all, why not empower yourself and be the expert on your body?

TWO-SECOND TIP: ALLERGY SKIN TESTS ARE PAINLESS AND ROUTINELY, SAFELY AND ACCURATELY PERFORMED ON KIDS AGE 2 AND OLDER.

3 | ARE SKIN TESTS PAINFUL? On the day of your allergy skin test, no fasting is needed. The only necessity is the avoidance of antihistamine products seven days before the testing. The skin test typically lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the amount of items being tested. Testing is generally done on your back, so you will be asked to lie down on your stomach. Several small, pointy, plastic skin test devices are available and allow a skin poke or prick on the back or

4 | WHAT IS PATCH TESTING? Another variation of skin testing often done to evaluate rashes is called patch testing, which is usually done to detect delayed sensitivities to foods, chemicals, latex and metals, such as nickel, cobalt, as well as many other substances. These allergens are applied on the back without pricking and reading of the testing is done in 48 hours.

wellness & wonder life's questions answered

{how can I get beach body ready for the summer?} CONTRIBUTED BY SKINSATION MEDICAL AESTHETICS & THE SPA AT SKINSATION

Want to look great for the summer? Skinsation would like to offer guidance to help you along the path of anti-aging and get your body in great shape for summer. Skinsation offers many services, including skin resurfacing, laser hair reduction, phentermine weight loss programs, aesthetic injectables, CoolSculpting fat freezing and Viora skin tightening treatments. Let’s talk about ways these types of services can help you.

Get rid of the bulge CoolSculpting

Can you pinch an inch? Or two or three? The ugly truth is, we all have stubborn fat and unfortunately, as we age, gravity and genetics only make things worse. Proper diet and exercise certainly help but are just not enough to keep these unwanted bulges at bay. Consider CoolSculpting. It is the solution for getting back the body you want without having surgery or downtime. This procedure targets fat cells and eliminates them in an easy, nonintrusive way by freezing them.

Phentermine

Look into Phentermine. This is a short-term, amphetamine-like appetite suppressant approved by the FDA and available only by prescription. However, you can also accelerate your weightloss potential by adding vitamin B-12 and/or lipotropic injections.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Technology plays a role in beauty improvement. One advancement is Viora, a leading medical aesthetic solutions provider for skincare applications, that seeks to help you look and feel your best so that you reach your true potential. Viora combines the mechanism of advanced radio frequency energy and vacuum therapy that work with the body’s natural regeneration process to deliver safe and efficient treatments for cellulite, body contouring, skin tightening, stretch mark reduction, hair removal and more.

Intense Pulsed Light Eliminate unwanted hair from most parts of the body with Intense Pulsed Light. In a short period of time, you may never have to wax or shave again!

Injectables

Control the overeating

Viora

No more unwanted hair, please

Age with grace and beauty Avoid surgery! As the face ages, loss of facial fat and facial boneloss coupled with the loss of skin elasticity results in lines around and under the eyes, deflated cheeks, deep folds and lines around the mouth and lips. However cosmetic injectables like Botox, Juvederm Voluma and Radiesse, etc. are widely used for facial enhancement and correction in lieu of surgery.

New technology in skincare

Good-bye redness, acne scars

Photofacials

If you're needing extra skin care attention, then consider photofacials. They are ideal treatments for skin care concerns ranging from redness, light acne scars and rosacea to broken capillaries and hyperpigmentation. Intense pulsed light photofacials involve a non-ablative laser that has been carefully calibrated to seek out specific pigments in the skin — redness, darker discolored patches or dark spots from acne or age.

wellness & wonder gardening

summer garden Sprucing up your

CONTRIBUTED BY KATHY ROBINSON of ROBBY’S NURSERY & CALICO GARDENS

For amateur gardeners looking to spruce up their summer garden, start by picking up a few tools to make your job easier. Small hand shovels and diggers are ideal for planting in small pots.

Blueberries are not only healthy, but they are a beautiful plant as well. Be sure to plant them in nice acidic soil, and these bushy plants will thrive. If you can, plant more than one variety for the best harvest.

Gardening gloves are always important and a kneeling pad will save your knees!

Try some bright four-inch colorful flowers to make more of an impact when planting. Sometimes six packs don’t provide that instant spark, but bigger plants with more flowers can definitely add a punch. For only $3.95 each, your flowerbeds will pop with lively shades of color.

How about an ever-blooming metal flower or a neat metal sun face to add a little art to a wall or fence? Focal points in the garden can add extra decoration and define your space even further. Who would think recycled materials could be so beautiful?

Add a few herbs and you’re on your way to a themed garden. From this herbal container of basil, sage, chives, oregano, parsley and cilantro, you can fulfill most any pesto recipe.

SPONSORED BY ROBBY’S NURSERY & CALICO GARDENS — 4002 TERRACOTTA COURT. — 588-0859

B Well Magazine · May 2014

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creating awareness some kind of wonderful

{Velvet Ranjel-Spreading Human Kindness to Strangers} WRITTEN BY HILLARY HAENES

PHOTOGRAPH BY APRIL MASSIRIO

For Velvet Ranjel, human kindness is something that comes naturally, especially after she began working as a monitor tech at Dignity Health Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. Ranjel has happily embraced Dignity’s “Hello Humankindness” campaign by spreading compassion to others. “I’ve worked for the organization for seven years now, and knowing that they support human kindness has made it that much easier to get up and come to work every day,” Ranjel said. This 41-year-old helps her community in many ways, such as raising money for West High’s choir, band and color guard; volunteering at the hospital; donating blood; and supporting local military veterans. Ranjel and her husband of 21 years have seven children and two grandkids, and Ranjel stays involved in their school and extra-curricular activities. Though Ranjel demonstrates the value of kindness daily, her compassion shined especially bright early one morning in March 2011. A patient walked into the emergency department in serious need of medical attention, but when the hospital staff told the patient that he needed an emergency procedure, the man protested. “When the doctor told him he needed to have this procedure to save his life, the patient said that he could not (stay) because his best friend/traveling companion was in the car. That’s when he told us he had a little dog,” Ranjel said.

B Well Magazine · May 2014

Ranjel calmly asked the patient if she could find a shelter to look after his dog while he recovered from the surgery. Unfortunately, Ranjel was unable to find a place to care for the pup named Lil’ Cork, so she called her husband to ask if their family could care for the dog while her patient healed. With two dogs, Daisy and Goat Beard, and a cat named Shadow, they had a full house. But Ranjel’s husband agreed it was the right thing to do. “(The patient) wasn’t from California, and he didn’t know anyone here in Bakersfield. I can only hope that someone would do the same thing for me, or my family if they were in the same situation,” Ranjel said. “That is what human kindness is — it’s not ‘What’s in it for me?’ It’s about doing the right thing for others.”

“Human kindness is not something that you think about doing; you just do it knowing that you want to make somebody else’s day better. ” After the surgery, Ranjel visited her patient and explained that she would care for Lil’ Cork for the next 10 days while he recovered. The man started to cry, telling Ranjel, “I can’t believe a complete stranger would help me by taking my dog in and caring for him.” Lil’ Cork had his own medical problems, so Ranjel made sure he got his medicine daily, and her kids took him on walks for exercise.

Velvet with her dogs, Daisy & Goat Beard

Though Ranjel didn’t expect anything in return for her act of kindness, this March she was invited to attend a special event in Santa Clara — a celebration of Dignity’s human kindness campaign — to meet the Dalai Lama and Dignity Health President/CEO Lloyd Dean. “It was surreal! I felt as if I had not truly done anything extraordinary to be given such as honor,” Ranjel humbly said. For Ranjel, showing kindness was the natural thing to do. “Human kindness is not something that you think about doing; you just do it knowing that you want to make somebody else’s day better. You take a step back and stop worrying about yourself for a moment. You give them your ear or your hand, and sometimes even your home,” Ranjel said.

Velvet’s Words of Wisdom on Spreading Human Kindness

“

Smile a lot — you never know when somebody might need to see a smile. At times, you’re the one who may need the smile.

“

Sit down and listen to people. Some of the stories people have to tell are incredible, and oftentimes all they want is for their story to be heard.

“

Volunteer at your local schools, soup kitchens or get a group of people together and go clean up a park.

“

Pay your local library a visit and get involved in reading to children.

“

There are the little things such as holding a hand out when someone has fallen, giving someone flowers, or watering flowers for someone if they are gone on a trip.

creating awareness b the cause

} A stroke can occur at any age, and statistics show that each year, more than 795,000 Americans have a stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, strokes are the leading cause of long-term disabilities. For a person living with the effects of a stroke and their family, it is vital for to have the right guidance to carry on after a stroke strikes. The Bakersfield Heart Hospital has just that information for people who need to learn more about stroke awareness. The hospital created a free monthly support group for stroke survivors and their caregivers. The goal of the program is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing support, education and information. The Stroke Awareness Support Group started with a conversation between registered nurse Ryan Allen, Bakersfield Heart Hospital Stroke Center Coordinator, and social worker Jeri Darr. “Ryan Allen approached me about bringing education to our stroke survivors and caregivers. We wanted people to know that there’s more to being a stroke patient than just a physical ailment,” said Darr, who is the support group facilitator for the Stroke Survivor Support Group and has worked for this Bakersfield Heart Hospital since 2009.

The Stroke Survivor Support Group: Showing

support for stroke survivors & loved ones WRITTEN BY ALANA GARRETT

One of the main goals for the support group is to bring in speakers who can provide information to the stroke survivors and their caregivers, Darr said. The Stroke Survivor Support Group will help survivors understand their condition more fully and empower them to partner with their physician in making health care decisions. Attendees will have informal discussions about how the event has changed them and will share tips and tools to help make the recovery process a little easier. The group aims to provide emotional support not just for the stroke survivor, but for the caregiver as well. “The stroke survivor, the family and the caregiver are who we want to help. We want to make sure they can care for the patient and themselves, so they don’t burn out,” Darr said. The support group provides a friendly environment and is open to all stroke survivor adults and their caregivers. Meetings are held at the Bakersfield Heart Hospital at 3001 Sillect Ave. in Bakersfield, in the second floor classroom.

}

Talking numbers STROKE FACTS • ABOUT

87%

OF ALL STROKES ARE ISCHEMIC STROKES, WHEN BLOOD FLOW TO THE BRAIN IS BLOCKED.

• STROKES KILL ALMOST

130,000

AMERICANS EACH YEAR —THAT’S 1 OUT OF EVERY 19 DEATHS.

• A STROKE IS THE NATION’S

No. 41 KILLER AND A LEADING CAUSE OF LONG-TERM DISABILITY.

• PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IS ASSOCIATED

35%

WITH AN OVERALL REDUCTION IN RISK FOR THE MOST COMMON TYPE OF STROKE.

• ABOUT

40%

OF STROKE DEATHS OCCUR IN MALES, AND 60% IN FEMALES.

• THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH A STROKE IS PROJECTED TO

“We wanted people to know that there’s more to being a stroke patient than just a physical ailment. —Jeri Darr

”

INCREASE BY BY 2030.

•

4 million

80%

OF STROKES ARE PREVENTABLE. SOURCE: STROKEINFO.ORG, STROKEASSOCIATION.ORG, CDC.GOV

Bakersfield Heart Hospital Stroke Awareness Group For more information on the stroke awareness group or how you can join, contact Jeri Darr at 852-6464 or Ryan Allen at 316-6008. Email: strokesupport@bakersfieldhearthospital.com Website: bakersfieldhearthospital.com

May 2014 · bwellmagazine.com

COLOR ME RAD BENEFITING RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE FEBRUARY 15 HELD AT KERN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS PHOTOS BY BRIAN N. WILLHITE

Samantha Boggess, Felicia Chisholm & Christine McDaniel

Haydee Quevedo & Ruben Robles

Jessica & Chasity Sanchez, Diana Garcia & Kori Rhea

Erica Roberts, Mariah Sloan, Patrice Dorsey & Kim Sloan

Al & Kensli Crespo

Alondra, Angelique, Nora, Arianna, Eva & Marcia Hernandez

Brian Bayer, Jacob Underhill & Michael Bayer

Artisha Barber, Teneka Elles with Monique & Gabrielle Fair

Molly Perez & Sergio Murillo

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last look life & happiness

the art of nothing WRITTEN BY KATY RAYTIS

Nothing is beautiful. I told my neighbor that the other day, and he agreed. Don’t mistake that statement as meaning that I’m despondent or hypercritical or wallowing in misery. I’m none of those things. I’m happy. But I’m even happier when I have nothing to do. Nowhere to be. No one to call. No giant to-do list inferno burning through every minute of the day. Just nothing. It’s beautiful. The problem with nothing is that it’s pretty hard to find. Nothing is like Bigfoot. There are occasional, rare sightings, but most people will tell that it doesn’t really exist and you probably don’t know anyone who has actually seen it. That’s because there is always something lurking around the corner. This is particularly true if you have three kids: Room mom, ballet recitals, packing lunches, soccer games, birthday parties, science fair projects, and everyone’s favorite — the unexpected stomach flu. Nothing always takes a backseat to parenting, and well, quite honestly, that’s a 24-hour job. Then there is work. It’s hard to say whether nothing really exists in the working world. Well, maybe it does if you count the people working at the DMV. But in a

non-DMV, productive, likely-to-stay-employed, working world, nothing is about as real as the Tooth Fairy. Let’s put it this way, I’m pretty sure that if I told any of my clients that I couldn’t get their work done because I have nothing going on right now, it wouldn’t go over very well (in fairness, I haven’t actually tried this). And yet, contrast that with the fact that most of my clients (even the demanding ones) understand completely when I say, “Something came up.” And usually, something did. That happens in life. Something comes up. Sometimes the “somethings” are self-imposed. This usually happens because we have this weird “nothing amnesia” where we forget that nothing is far better than anything else we might plan. “Sure, we’d love to come over for dinner.” And then the night arrives, and instead of doing nothing, you have to get cleaned up, make an artichoke dip and drive across town. The list of “somethings” goes on and on and on. Getting the car smog checked. Going to church. Taking the dog to the vet. Paying the bills. And the saddest part is that “nothing” never actually qualifies as a something. When you really think about it, it’s pretty amazing that

nothing ever even happens at all. I feel like the main character in the movie “Office Space” (which, by the way, is a great movie if you find yourself on the couch with nothing to watch, though I certainly don’t want to give you something to do). Anyway, he says that he has a dream in life: A dream of doing nothing. And I wholeheartedly share his dream. For a working mom, the nothing moments are fleeting and far between — when the laundry is folded and the dinner is done; when the work is put away and the bills are paid; when the errands are run and the homework is done. Those are the nothing moments, the beautiful moments. I try to savor those precious minutes as they occur. Maybe it’s a bath. Maybe it’s a warm robe right out of the dryer so that it’s extra soft and fluffy. Or maybe it’s just sitting in a chair outside and soaking up the sun. What you do in that time doesn’t really matter — it’s what you don’t do that counts. And doing nothing can be very, very wonderful. Someday, I will die. And when they are searching around for pithy epitaphs for my headstone I hope that “Katy Raytis — She did nothing well” is in the running. At the very least, it would be true.

Editor's Note: Not every writer can turn musings on everyday life into stories that both entertain us and warm our hearts. But on top of her legal expertise, local attorney Katy Raytis boasts just that talent. After featuring her in April issue of our sister magazine Bakersfield Life, we are pleased to introduce Raytis as an occasional columnist for both Bakersfield Life and B Well magazines. We hope you will enjoy her witty, touching writing in "The Family Verdict" as much as we do."

B Well Magazine · May 2014

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