Baptist Health Flourish - Madisonville - Fall 2016

Be a healthier you

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BUSTED MYTHS, BETTER HEALTH Don't believe everything you hear about wellness, no matter how true it sounds

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heart healthy habits to start

plus: GROWNUPS NEED SHOTS TOO

| WHEN TO START MAMMOGRAMS?

HEALTH TIPS

BABY WEIGHT Lots of women worry about losing the “baby weight” after pregnancy. But what many don’t know is that excess weight before and during pregnancy can lead to heavier kids.

A recent study found that obese women or those who gain excessive weight while pregnant are more likely to have children who are overweight at age two. Heading this off should begin before pregnancy, says Baptist Health Medical Group nurse midwife Lysbeth Franco.

She recommends women who are considering becoming pregnant start

an exercise routine. Walking three times a week for an hour at a time is a great start. Prospective mothers also can begin improving their eating habits and decreasing their fast food consumption, Franco added, saying “those things should be done prior to planning a pregnancy.”

The study also found that breastfeeding for at least six months helped reduce the chances of a child being overweight.

BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING

The second Tuesday of each month, a breastfeeding class meets at 5 p.m. in the Baptist Health Madisonville Women's Center, second floor, 800 Hospital Drive. Register: 270.825.5747.

When to Start

Mammograms IT’S A SIMPLE QUESTION — when should I start getting an annual mammogram? So why is the answer so confusing?

In recent years, the medical community has debated the best starting age. Recently, the American Cancer Society tweaked its guidelines, saying women at average risk could start annual mammograms at age 45 instead of 40. Other groups recommend different starting ages.

Can somebody tell us what to do here?

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PHOTOS BY THINKSTOCK

For a 3-D or traditional mammogram, turn to Baptist Health Madisonville.

Schedule by calling 270.326.3900.

No doctor's order is needed.

Underinsured or uninsured?

Ask about a free mammogram through the Think Pink grant.

Ultimately, women can determine the best age to start mammograms by having a conversation with their physician, says Baptist Health Medical Group oncologist and hematologist Ali Kanbar, MD. The age depends largely on risk factors. If a woman is at higher risk, she would start screening earlier than a woman with fewer risk factors.

What is known for sure, Dr. Kanbar added, is that mammograms are an effective and reliable screening method. Mammograms decrease the odds of dying from breast cancer by about 20 percent.

That’s critical, considering breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second deadliest.

“Because it’s so common, early detection and prevention are very important,” Dr. Kanbar said.

Spice is Nice

HEALTH TIPS

Using seasonings and herbs not only gives food some extra pep, but also can have health benefits. Here are a few spices to try: BLACK PEPPER: It acts as both an antioxidant and an antibacterial agent. It stimulates the breakdown of fat cells, which aids digestion and weight loss.

CHILI PEPPERS: Seasoning with heat can boost fat-burning capacity and lower blood pressure.

CINNAMON: It has been shown to lower inflammation, which has been linked to heart disease and cancer. It also reduces blood glucose concentrations in people with diabetes.

GOT A CASE OF THE SNIFFLES? Cooler weather brings football and bonfires, but also hay fever season. Here’s how to keep the sneezing to a minimum: SHUT IT OUT: Close windows and

use air conditioning to keep pollen exposure to a minimum.

CILANTRO/CORIANDER: It helps decrease “bad” cholesterol and increase “good” cholesterol.

GINGER: Its active ingredient is thought to relax blood vessels, stimulate blood flow and relieve pain, making it useful for arthritis, rheumatism and muscular aches. It’s also popular for treating indigestion and vomiting.

FIND DELICIOUS RECIPES Check out our blog for recipe ideas using some of these spices: BaptistHealthforYou.com

FILTERS: Use air filters, especially

if you have carpet. One HEPA filter per room is recommended. Cover air conditioning vents with cheesecloth to filter pollen.

WATCH THE WEATHER: When it’s

hot, dry and windy, pollen counts are usually highest. Stay inside if possible.

IMAGES BY THINKSTOCK

LATHER UP: When you get home,

wash your face and hands. If you’ve been outside for a while, shower, wash your hair and put on fresh clothes.

Sugar by any other name would still be as sweet. You know to look for sugar in the ingredients list when reading food labels. But do you know all of the other names it goes by? If you see any of these words on the label, beware — it's sugar.  Cane juice P  Clintose P

 Dextrose P  Malt P

 Sucrose P  Fructose P

(or high fructose corn syrup)

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How much 'common wisdom' is simply false?

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n apple a day won’t literally keep the doctor away. Going outside in the cold with wet hair won’t actually give you pneumonia. And Mom probably is at odds with medical professionals when she tells you to feed a cold and starve a fever. Is everything we’ve been told just plain wrong?

Probably not, but it’s undeniable that few topics inspire more myths than health and wellness.

The same do-this, don’t-do-that advice is repeated

Mythbusters

often and is just as often incorrect.

Here, we clear up a few falsehoods and offer some surprising-but-true facts that you can confidently share.

MYTH: The Crushing Pain Of Heart Attack

You know the dramatic scene on TV when someone is having a heart attack: The actor clutches his chest, gasps and drops to the floor in agony.

And for some, a heart attack is sudden and very painful. But studies have

Do you have a health myth that you’d like for Baptist Health experts to explore? Send us an email at Flourish@bhsi.com and put “myths” in the subject line. We might feature your favorite myth on our blog, BaptistHealthforYou.com.

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shown that as many as one-third of people not only don’t have debilitating chest pain when having a heart attack — they have no chest pain at all. (That is more commonly the case with women, particularly older women.)

In fact, some people have so few symptoms that they are surprised to learn later that they’ve had a heart attack. Less-obvious symptoms include pain in the upper body, including the arms and neck, and shortness of breath. Chest pain can be mild, and may feel like pressure or fullness in the center or left side of your chest.

Strange-but-true: Did you know that heart attacks are most likely to happen in the morning? Research has shown that the chance of sudden cardiac death peaks between 6-10 a.m. Scientists think the timing is tied to levels of proteins in the body that help regulate electrical activity in the heart.

MYTH: Your Antiperspirant Is Giving You Cancer

It’s a rumor that never seems to die: the scary claim that wearing antiperspirant can give you breast cancer, because of the aluminum found in many underarm products.

But don’t sweat it: experts say there’s no conclusive evidence that this is true.

Some people think the aluminumbased compounds in antiperspirants are absorbed through the underarm skin and, along with parabens, can build up in breast tissue.

While a fair amount of research has turned up some parabens in breast cancer samples, studies did not show a link between the parabens and the creation of the cancer. So far, all that’s certain is that scientists have more work to do before declaring antiperspirants a breast cancer risk.

Strange-but-true: Did you know that sitting for six or more hours daily can up your chances of dying of cancer and other major diseases?

Women are at greater risk than men.

Cut your desk jockey time by taking the stairs, standing up to stretch at least once an hour, and going on a lunchtime stroll with co-workers.

IMAGE BY THINKSTOCK

MYTH: Women In Their 40s With Few Periods Can’t Get Pregnant

Can you get pregnant if you’re in your 40s and having fewer periods?

Yes, you sure can. If this is a surprise to you, it’s also a surprise to the many women over 40 who ended up with an unexpected bundle of joy.

The fact is, while women in their 40s do have declining fertility and are less likely to conceive than younger women, they still experience their fair share of unplanned pregnancies.

Bottom line: A slowing of periods can signal the beginning of menopause but it’s not until a year after a woman’s last period that medical professionals consider menopause complete. Contraception is still very important if you’re not looking to add to your clan.

Strange-but-true: All women, pregnant or not, should know that endometriosis, the abnormal growth of tissue in the uterus, has been linked to heart disease. The link is stronger for women age 40 or younger. While endometriosis is not preventable, lower your risk: avoid taking in large amounts of caffeine and alcohol, and get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.

MYTH: Vaccines Cause Autism

You hear a lot about vaccines and a link to autism, and the voices are loud. But fact reigns here: There is no scientific evidence that vaccines cause autism.

There’s also no evidence that the ingredients in vaccines cause autism.

Thimerosol has been removed from most vaccines to reduce children's exposure to mercury, but it has been ruled out as a cause of autism.

Strange-but-true: Taking an aspirin during a stroke could be a very bad move. But it’s complicated: Popping an aspirin to treat a ministroke caused by a clot is advised, but strokes that are caused by bleeding in the brain could get much worse with aspirin. The best thing to do with stroke symptoms? Call 911 for immediate medical help.

Finding The Truth

It’s tough to dismiss health advice that has been handed down for generations or considered common knowledge. And it’s easy to think something is true when you’ve seen it portrayed time and time again on TV or some “authority” is writing about it on the Internet.

You can separate the “facts” from the facts by trusting only reputable health sources that rely on peerreviewed studies and medical professionals. (Hint: Stay away from health advice via online message boards.)

In the end, the best way to separate wives’ tales from real health wisdom is to ask your doctor.

Ultimately — sorry, Mom — that’s who knows best.

VACCINES FOR GROWN-UPS TRUE OR FALSE: Once you reach adulthood, you can write off vaccinations as a relic of childhood. Did you answer true? Try again!

It’s a common misconception that adults don’t need immunizations. But making sure we protect ourselves — and in turn, safeguard others — is crucial, says Kelly Vincent, MD, a family medicine physician with Baptist Health Medical Group.

“As we get older, we tend to concentrate on obvious health problems,” Dr. Vincent said. “We overlook things that still pose a danger to us and those around us.”

Flu presents a serious health risk, yet myths abound about the vaccine. The reality is that the shot is a killed virus, so receiving it cannot cause the flu, as many people believe. And people who had a reaction to the vaccine many years ago (such as those with egg allergies) should check with their doctor about trying again. The flu vaccine now has fewer preservatives, which helps with tolerance.

Another vaccine that should be revisited in adulthood is Tdap, which stands for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. The vaccine is received in childhood and typically stays in the system for 10 years. The tetanus and diphtheria vaccines defend adults against infection, and the pertussis vaccine protects young children from adult carriers of the illness.

Adults should receive Tdap booster shots every 10 years. Parents and grandparents should receive a booster shot before the birth of a child.

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FALL 2016

Learn more about heart care and the Heart Valve Clinic at HealthTalks.

BaptistHealth.com.

Keep on Ticking

Take manageable steps to prevent or improve heart disease

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our heart works hard to keep your body going, so you show it some love in return. Simple actions can protect your ticker against cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among Kentucky men and women. B.N. Sreekumar, MD, a Baptist Health Medical Group cardiologist known as “Dr. Sree,” offers advice on how to be heart healthy.

Healthy Habits

Get enough sleep. Logging seven to eight hours of sleep every night has a tremendous impact on your heart.

It decreases stress levels and certain hormones in the body that tend to cause rhythm problems, and gives your heart rate and blood pressure time to “reset.” And it turns out there is something to that “early-to-bed, early-to-rise” thing—those who go to bed earlier are more likely to adopt healthy habits. We crave the worst foods after 8 p.m.

Think “small plates.” Eat small portions. Have a glass of water or a salad before your meal to prevent overeating. If you go to a restaurant, immediately ask for a take-home box for half of your food. Pop that food into the box for your next meal, and then nibble on what’s left.

Choose healthy foods. Go heavy on fruits and vegetables.

Berries contain good-for-your-heart antioxidants. Pick lean proteins such as chicken or fish. For cooking, use olive oil, which has lower saturated fat. Incorporate foods with “good” fats, such as nuts, salmon, avocado, sardines, white tuna and olives.

Avoid some foods. Eat as little fried food as possible. (Go for broiled or baked instead.) Try not to eat processed foods like lunch meat or boxed meals, which tend to be very salty.

Exercise! Here’s What To Know:

k If you don’t have heart problems, aim to exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week. Start with a walk. k The goal is to increase your heart rate. To determine your ideal heart rate, subtract your age from 220. If you are in good physical condition, aim for a target heart rate that’s 85 percent of that number. For example, if you are 40 and in good health, your target heart rate would be 153. If you are in less-than-ideal condition, aim for 60 to 85 percent of 220 minus your age. You can purchase inexpensive heart-rate monitors to wear while exercising. kStart slow if you’ve had a heart attack or other heart issues. Join a cardiac rehabilitation program. Ask your doctor for his or her exercise recommendations.

MORE WAYS TO PUT YOUR HEART FIRST

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PHOTO BY THINKSTOCK CREDIT

Other factors can play a role in cardiovascular health. Dr. Sree recommends following these recommendations: QUIT SMOKING. Smoking increases blood physical health. Depression and anxiety have pressure, decreases exercise tolerance and a pronounced effect on heart health. decreases good (HDL) cholesterol.

TAKE YOUR MEDICINES AS INSTRUCTED. Care for your MENTAL HEALTH. It’s just Whether it’s aspirin or blood pressure as important for cardiovascular well-being as medication, follow your doctor’s orders.

IN SEASON

Not-Fried, Any-Color Tomatoes

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ried green tomatoes are a Southern staple.

And the good news is that the key ingredient offers a wealth of health benefits. Tomatoes contain three important antioxidants — betacarotene, vitamin E and vitamin C — which are substances that help protect the body from damage that can cause cancer and other serious health problems.

Tomatoes also provide a healthy dose of potassium, which is linked to lower blood pressure.

Now you can enjoy a lighter, healthier version of fried green tomatoes without worrying about collateral damage to your body. This version involves cooking in the oven, which produces a similar crunchy result but is much healthier than frying. You can try the same method with other Southern favorites, such as fried chicken. The end result is still delicious.

Crispy Oven-Cooked Tomatoes Serves: 6 | Calories per serving: 173

⁄2 cup all-purpose flour

1

2 large eggs, lightly beaten 5 cups cornflakes, crushed Salt and pepper ⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1

2 pounds firm tomatoes (any color), cut into 1/4-inch rounds

PHOTO BY GETTY

Lemon wedges or ranch dressing, for serving Directions Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place wire racks in rimmed baking sheets. Place flour, eggs, and cornflakes in three separate shallow dishes and season each with salt and pepper.

Stir cayenne into flour mixture. Coat each tomato slice first in flour, then eggs, then cornflakes, pressing lightly to adhere. Arrange tomatoes in a single layer on racks and bake until deep golden brown, about 15 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through. Serve with lemon wedges or ranch dressing.

From Martha Stewart, Everyday Food, September 2012

wer TIP: For fe y an olive tr , s e ri lo , ca inegar dip oil-and-v ish sauce or d ra horse d-blacka corn-ansh. bean reli

Get Cookin'

Get some new recipes and try some healthy bites with celebrity TV Chef Curtis Aikens as he presents "Diabetes 101" to Get Healthy Hopkins County on Saturday, Nov. 12. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the program starts at 10 a.m., Baptist Health Madisonville Building B, 200 Clinic Drive, 8th floor of the tower.

The event is free. Register: 270.825.7377.

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FALL 2016

Nonprofit Org US Postage PAID Columbus WI Permit No. 62

900 Hospital Drive Madisonville, KY 42431

CONNECT WITH US: BaptistHealthMadisonville.com

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

NEED A DOCTOR? Call

270.825.5100 Ali Kanbar, MD oncology, hematology page 2

Lysbeth Franco, WHNP, CNM midwifery page 2

Kelly Vincent, MD family medicine page 5

B.N. Sreekumar, MD cardiology page 6

Mark Your Calendars CAMP BUTTERFLY

Saturday, Sept. 24 one-day camp Baptist Health Madisonville Hospice House, 418 N. Scott St., Madisonville For children ages 5 to 12 who need help in grieving the loss of a loved one (family or friend).

Includes group sessions to talk and share feelings through activities and closes with a memorial service with a butterfly release. Free. Open to the public. Details, registration: 270.326.4660

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Fourth Monday of the month (Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 28, Dec. 12), 6-7 p.m.

Baptist Health Madisonville, Commonwealth Dining Room in the hospital cafeteria, 900 Hospital Drive, Madisonville Group-led by trained peer leader, meets primarily for education and support. Details: 270.639.5679

BAJA 5K & 1-MILE FUN RUN/WALK

Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m.

Baptist Health Fitness Formula, 950 Hospital Drive, Madisonville The run/walk takes place in the area of Baptist Health Madisonville and downtown.

Cost: Pre-registration $20, Race day $25 Details: 270.824.2023, ask for Kathy Edwards

MARCH OF DIMES WALK FOR BABIES

Saturday, Oct. 29 Trover Wellness Park at Baptist Health Madisonville.

Registration at 10 a.m., walk at 11 a.m. Details: 800.865.0604.

CELEBRITY CHEF CURTIS AIKENS

Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.

Baptist Health Madisonville, Building B, 8th floor, 200 Clinic Drive, Madisonville Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for your chance to learn about the chef’s healthy take on fruits and vegetables, often with a Southern influence. Free. Registration required: 270.825.7377

BOTTOM LEFT IMAGE BY THINKSTOCK

Flourish is published three times a year by Baptist Health’s Marketing office. Designed and produced by MANIFEST LLC. Flourish makes every effort to ensure that the information it contains is medically accurate and up to date. All material is for informational purposes and is intended to complement, not substitute for, the advice of your physician. Before trying any medical treatment or changing your present routine or program, consult with your physician, who can discuss your individual needs, symptoms and treatment. For more information, contact Kristy Quinn, Marketing and Public Relations coordinator, at Kristy.Quinn@BHSI.com or Baptist Health, 900 Hospital Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431.