N E W Y E A R 2 0 2 1 $ 5.9 5

HEART DISEASE IN MEN & WOMEN 6 DIFFERENCES YOU NEED TO KNOW

ANXIETY & SLEEP DEPRIVATION

ANNUAL

WHAT’S THE CONNECTION?

BON E & JOI NT

20-MINUTE HOMEWERK LOCAL MARY WALKER’S GUIDED, AT-HOME WORKOUT

SECTION

ALL WORK & NO PLAY HOW TO STOP WORKING SO MUCH

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS HEALTHY RECIPES

SERUMS FOR SUNNY SKIN CULT CLASSICS FOR GLOW-GETTERS

PLUS HER STORY INSPIRED BEAUTIFULLY YOU!

See page 64 for our interview with Cover Model Liz Kelley

F A M I L Y

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N U T R I T I O N

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F I T N E S S

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R E L A T I O N S H I P S

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B E A U T Y

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R E C I P E S

WE ARE ALL

CHAMPIONS As a community, letâ€™s continue to grow and persevere through the new year.

L I F E

C A R E

C E N T E R S

O F

Learn more at LCCA.com.

A M E R I C A

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Publisher’s Letter

“The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written.” — MELODY BEATTIE

What will you write in this next chapter? A new year has – finally – arrived, and with it, endless opportunities to make life-changing decisions. Whether you’re 22 or 82, it’s important for you to know that it’s never too late to make a change, especially when it comes to your health. If boosting your well-being is on your mind in 2021, this new year issue of HealthScope® magazine just might encourage you to take charge and establish better habits. Starting with our feature “Heart Disease in Men and Women,” we highlight the risks associated with heart disease and ways you can work toward a healthier heart. “Anxiety and Sleep Deprivation” covers two often intertwining issues with a roadmap to sound sleep and a calmer mind. Additionally, in our feature “Obesity in Older Adults,” we discuss the importance of sustaining an active lifestyle in your golden years. This issue also features a brand-new section, Beautifully You!, which highlights our area’s most accomplished cosmetic professionals. These highly skilled nurse practitioners, nurse injectors, and licensed aestheticians have dedicated much of their lives to serving their clients. As always, check out our annual Bone & Joint section, in which we detail ways to safeguard your frame and lead a pain-free life.

There are many more topics inside for you to discover, including a guided HIIT workout by Mary Walker, healthy lemon recipes, and quotes from local ladies on how they’ve maintained George Mullinix friendships durPUBLISHER ing a pandemic. “Her Story” continues to share the stories of local women who have faced adversity headon, while “Inspired” celebrates women who are making the world a better place through their words and actions. Don’t miss our interview with Liz Kelley, who is kicking off our fantastic lineup of cover models (from all walks of life!) in 2021. By prioritizing her health and her friendships, Liz is making the most of her 20s while setting the stage for decades to come. She’s sure to inspire you to be your best self at any age! We hope that you find this issue of HealthScope® magazine to be informative and uplifting, and that it will inspire you to write the best chapter yet in 2021. Blessings always,

Celebrating 32 Years! HealthScopeMag.com Follow HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines and Choose Chattanooga® Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® on Facebook and Instagram!

HealthScopeMag.com

www.finks.com

Contents

Be Well 28

Heart Disease in Men & Women 6 Differences You Need to Know

34 Anxiety & Sleep Deprivation

Your Questions, Answered

40 From Smallpox to COVID-19

The Evolution of the Vaccine

46 Obesity in Older Adults

Maintaining a Healthy Weight as You Age

Stay Well Annual Bone & Joint Section 54

Partial Knee Resurfacing

Gum Disease & Bone Loss

Alternatives to Spinal Fusion

Managing Metastatic Bone Disease

Preserving Bone with Dental Implants

Look Well 64 Meet Our Model

66 The Trailblazers of Fashion

HealthScopeMag.com

68 Serums for Sunny Skin

Liz Kelley

Stylish Selections from Local Boutiques

Cult Classics Youâ€™ll Love

Tackling Thirst How to Know When Your Skin Is Dehydrated & What to Do About It

MANAGING YOUR HEALTH Try to include an optimal amount of sleep, reduce stress where possible and begin healthy eating and regular exercise.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY can help reduce high blood pressure, and lower the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart attack or stroke. Physical activity can help with arthritis pain, risk of osteoporosis and falls. Symptoms and signs of depression and anxiety can be lowered with the distraction of exercise. The easiest and best way to start exercise - WALK!

HEALTHY EATING FOR A HEALTHY WEIGHT Try to emphasize more fruits and vegetables into your diet, incorporating lean meats, fish, and foods low in saturated fats, cholesterol and sodium.

OUR MISSION At the Vascular Institute, we meet our patients where they are on their healthcare journey by focusing on and treating: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI), and Venous & Vein Issues. We also manage Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Smoking Cessation, and address Wound Care and Dialysis Access needs. Diagnostic Vascular Ultrasound testing and Interventional Procedures are performed within our centers. We are the regional leading experts! We are the VIC Vascular team! 14 providers â€“ 3 convenient locations â€“ 1 Goal... Delivering the best patient care!

VASCULAR INSTITUTE Chattanooga | Cleveland | North Georgia www.vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com

423.602.2750

Contents

Beautifully You! Local Cosmetic Professionals Serving Their Clients

Kayla Savard

Tailoring Treatments to Her Clientsâ€™ Needs

Mary Mitchell

Taking a Goal-Oriented Approach

Stacey Pollom Fostering Relationships for Exceptional Results

80 Lindsay Bright

Championing Confidence

Jessica Archer Providing a Healthy Foundation

Her Story Motivating Stories from Local Women

84 86 88 89

Candace Litchfield Alison Smiley Edkedsha (KeeKee) Mathis Latricia Milburn

Inspired

Women Celebrating Women

91 92 93

Catherine Fore & Kathleen Greeson Robin Sturnes & Shenikia Sturnes Beth Bragg Henon & Mari VanderWoude

Feel Well 94 All Work & No Play

92 10

HealthScopeMag.com

How to Stop Working So Much

96 Maintaining Friendships During a Pandemic

Local Ladies Share Their Experiences

SKIP THE MASTER’S BSN to DNP Program Become an advanced practice nurse and earn a doctor of nursing practice at the same time. Our BSN to DNP program mentors bachelor’s degree-level graduates, as they gain the necessary RN experience, through an advanced nursing practice emphasis of their choice. Options include: • DNP/MBA • Lifestyle Medicine • Nurse Educator • Nurse Practitioner (emphases include Acute Care–Adult/Gerontology, Primary Care–Adult/Gerontology, Family, and Psychiatric Mental Health) Call or visit online to find out how to get started.

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Contents HealthScopeMag.com New Year 2021 • Vol. 32 Issue 3

Live Well

Departments Health in a Minute

98 Mary Walker’s 20-Minute HomeWERK

A Guided, At-Home Workout

102 Eat Well for Less

10 Tips for Eating Healthy

on a Budget

104 When Life Gives You Lemons

For Her

For Him

For Moms

For the Whole Family

For the Home

24 Health & Wellness Calendar 25 Staff Spotlight 26 Ask the Doctor

Lemon Recipes from Locals

50 Silver Side

N E W Y E A R 2 0 2 1 $ 5.9 5

Meet cover model Liz Kelley! Throughout the year, we’ll be capturing the unique aspects of

HEART DISEASE IN MEN & WOMEN 6 DIFFERENCES YOU NEED TO KNOW

ANXIETY & SLEEP DEPRIVATION

ANNUAL

WHAT’S THE CONNECTION?

BON E & JOI NT

20-MINUTE HOMEWERK LOCAL MARY WALKER’S GUIDED, AT-HOME WORKOUT

SECTION

ALL WORK & NO PLAY HOW TO STOP WORKING SO MUCH

HEALTHY RECIPES

old, Liz has already learned a thing

SERUMS FOR SUNNY SKIN CULT CLASSICS FOR GLOW-GETTERS

or two about navigating life and

PLUS HER STORY INSPIRED BEAUTIFULLY YOU!

prioritizing her health!

See page 64 for our interview with Cover Model Liz Kelley

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for local ladies crossing decades ranging from 20s to 70s. At 27 years

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS

F A M I L Y

life, including health and wellness,

N U T R I T I O N

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R E L A T I O N S H I P S

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HealthScopeMag.com

B E A U T Y

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R E C I P E S

Photo by Lanewood Studio

Publisher

George Mullinix

Sales & New Business Development

Cailey Mullinix Easterly

Sales & Business Development

Katie Faulkner

Art, Creative, & Design

Emily Pérez Long

Design

Lauren Robinson

Editors

Christina Cannon Anna Hill Mary Beth Wallace

SEO/Digital Marketing

Micah Underwood

Marketing Assistant

Alysse Parris

Photographers Emily Pérez Long Rich Smith

Lanewood Studio

Subscribe to CityScope® or HealthScope® magazines: Call 423.266.3440 or visit cityscopemag.com or healthscopemag.com and click “Subscribe.” A one year subscription for CityScope® or HealthScope® magazine costs $18. To receive advertising information, change your mailing address, or share your views on editorial: Call 423.266.3440 or visit cityscopemag.com or healthscopemag.com and click “Contact.” CityScope® and HealthScope® magazines and Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide ® (the magazines) are published by CMC Publications, LLC, a Chattanooga, Tennessee company. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Views expressed herein are those of the authors or those interviewed and not necessarily those of the publisher, editors, or advertisers. The publisher, editors, and advertisers disclaim any responsibility or liability for such material. All content associated with and included in advertisements (ads, advertorial, and special promotional sections) placed in the magazines are the responsibility of the respective advertiser. CMC Publications, LLC, cannot and does not assume responsibility for any material contained within or associated with any advertisement. CityScope® magazine Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 1993 CityScope® magazine is a trademark owned by CMC Publications, LLC HealthScope® magazine Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 1989 HealthScope® magazine is a trademark owned by CMC Publications, LLC Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 2011 Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® is a trademark owned by CMC Publications, LLC

COME INTO AFC URGENT CARE TO FIND RELIEF FROM THE COLD & FLU TODAY! Anyone can become infected with the flu virus. So whether you are feeling flu-like symptoms or just feeling under the weather, come see us. Our experienced staff is waiting to care for you seven days a week without an appointment. CLEVELAND: 170 Mouse Creek Road (37312) ph: 423.458.1426 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5 OOLTEWAH: 9058 Old Lee Highway (37363) ph: 423.531.9110 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5 HIXSON: 5546 Highway 153, Suite 120 (37343) ph: 423.486.1911 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5 CHATTANOOGA: 1521 Gunbarrel Rd., Suite 103 (37421) ph: 423.531.0911 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5 CHATTANOOGA: 3520 Cummings Highway (37419) ph: 423.822.5942 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5 FORT OGLETHORPE, GA: 26 Parkway Drive (30742) ph: 706.956.2846 | Open Every Day 8-6 ATHENS: 2037 Congress Pkwy. S (37303) ph: 423.381.0152 | Open M-F 8-8, S-S 8-5

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We come to you, wherever you call home HOME VISIT • LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES • ASSISTED LIVING SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES • HOSPITALS • TELEHEALTH

Hospice of Chattanooga personalizes care focusing on meeting the medical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and their families in Southeast TN and Northwest GA. www.HospiceofChattanooga.org

Good Shepherd Hospice personalizes care focusing on meeting the medical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and their families in Western North Carolina. www.GoodShepherdNC.org

Palliative Care Services specializes in medical care to provide relief from symptoms and stresses of serious illnesses. www.PalliativeCareServices.org

Upper Cumberland Hospice personalizes care focusing on meeting the medical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and their families in Putnam County, TN. www.UpperCumberlandHospice.org

ABC Hospice personalizes care focusing on meeting the medical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and their families in Northeast Alabama. www.ABCHospice.org

Kangaroo Kidz provides care for children with life-limiting illnesses, walking beside them on their journey to enhance quality of life, support families, and navigate difficult questions. www.KangarooKidz.org

Angel Heart Hospice personalizes care focusing on meeting the medical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and their families in the greater Atlanta area and surrounding counties. www.AngelHeartHospice.com

Comprehensive Care provides non-medical assistance while enjoying the comfort and familiarity of living at home. www.ComprehensiveCare.org

H E A LT H I N A M I N U T E FOR HER

DEFINING DIZZINESS There is a myriad of reasons one may experience dizziness, but not all dizzy spells are created equal. In general, there are two types of dizziness, and knowing which one you are experiencing is the first step to determining its cause. The most common type, lightheadedness, is when individuals feel faint, woozy, or weak. This feeling may be accompanied by tunnel vision, sweating, buzzing in the ears, or nausea, and if a person fights the urge to sit or lie down, they very well could pass out. Lightheadedness can be caused by everything from dehydration and blood loss to stress and cardiac conditions, and itâ€™s common to momentarily feel dizzy when standing up quickly. This sudden drop in blood pressure is nothing to worry about, but for more frequent or longer episodes, consult a doctor. The other type of dizziness is vertigo, or the sensation that your surroundings are moving around you. This feeling of the room spinning is sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting, double vision, and numbness or tingling. It can be related to ear infections, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and a variety of neurological problems, so seeing a doctor when you experience this type of dizziness is advised.

HealthScopeMag.com

Top Low-Maintenance House Plants to Help You Beat the Winter Blues

he holidays may be over, but the winter season is still in full force. If youâ€™re looking for a little pick-me-up, why not try adding a new house plant to your space? These options are sure to provide a daily dose of beauty and are winterapproved. Whether you sometimes forget to water them, have little natural sunlight, or keep your heat running on high, these plants have what it takes to survive.

GREAT FOR LOW LIGHT Chinese Evergreen ZZ Plant Snake Plant Maidenhair Fern Clivia

GREAT FOR INFREQUENT OR INCONSISTENT WATERING Chinese Evergreen ZZ Plant Moth Orchid Snake Plant Ponytail Palm Clivia

GREAT FOR HIGH OR DRY HEAT

Jade Plant

ZZ Plant

Christmas Cactus

Moth Orchid

Philodendrons

Ponytail Palm

Succulents

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Aloe

Cacti and Desert Plants

Wax Plant

B rody J ewelers

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H E A LT H I N A M I N U T E FOR HIM

Finding Fitness Through Sports Whether you crave competition or are just looking for a break from your regular gym routine, sports can do wonders at helping you achieve and maintain your fitness goals. While there are plenty of activities that can challenge your body, here are some that are great for overall fitness and a range of skill levels.

Golf: Golf lovers rejoice! It turns out your favorite pastime just might help you burn upwards of 1,000 calories. Walking an 18-hole course while pushing or carrying clubs is sure to get your heart rate up.

Squash or Racquetball: A game of squash or racquetball is a great full-body workout. These sports target your back, shoulders, arms, chest, quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core and also test endurance, speed, balance, and agility.

Water Sports: Whether you prefer kayaking, rowing, canoeing, or paddleboarding, water sports are great for fitness. With a focus on arms and core, they are sure to boost your muscle strength and endurance.

Cycling: Cycling is a great aerobic workout and one that also strengthens quads, glutes, and hamstrings. Riders can choose between roads or trails, how fast they go, and how many hills they climb for a tailored workout every time.

Swimming: Easy on the joints, swimming requires your lower and upper body to work together, making it a great alternative to hitting the gym. Strength and endurance are the name of the game here.

STOP THE BURN: 5 Tips for Avoiding Acid Reflux If you’ve ever experienced acid reflux, you’re not alone. While you may think your body is doomed to constantly experience heartburn, a sore throat, or hoarseness, there are some actions you can take to alleviate the symptoms. 1. Eat slow and sparingly. The fuller your stomach is, the more likely you are to have reflux. Try eating more frequent, smaller meals throughout the day instead of several larger ones. 2. Sleep on an incline. Explore sleeping with your head 6-8 inches above your feet. A foam wedge or bed riser should give you the lift you need to keep acid where it belongs. 3. Avoid certain foods. Mint, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coffee, tea, chocolate, alcohol, and anything spicy or carbonated has been known to contribute to acid reflux. Try eliminating these foods and adding them back to your diet one by one. 4. Stay up after eating. Sitting or standing after eating a meal will allow gravity to keep acid in your stomach. A good rule of thumb is to wait three hours after mealtime before lying down. 5. Don’t move too fast. Also try to avoid vigorous exercise for several hours after eating, and aim to keep your activities to a leisurely stroll.

HealthScopeMag.com

MARSHAL MIZE FORD

CHATTANOOGA’S BRONCO HEADQUARTERS

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H E A LT H I N A M I N U T E FOR MOMS

7 Types of Extracurriculars for Children As children grow, it becomes necessary for them to explore different clubs and organizations, which offer experiences that will help them make friends, gain new skills, and oftentimes, determine their trajectory for years to come.

Avoiding Parking Lot Peril

Sports: From football and soccer to cheerleading and softball, sports are certainly a great way to keep kids physically active and build self-esteem.

Volunteering: Even the youngest children can get something out of volunteering. Kiwanis organizations are a good place to start and can help build skills such as leadership and communication.

Scouting: Boy or Girl Scouts can start your child on the path to becoming a well-rounded adult. These groups provide kids with the chance to learn new skills and create friendships.

Academic: Not only do academic clubs give children the opportunity to grow and learn, they can also help them explore areas of interest that may shape their future.

ESTABLISH RULES. Lay down ground rules for your child. These

Music & Arts: Unleash your child’s creative side by exposing them to the arts. From dance to singing and painting, this could be the outlet they need to express themselves.

see your child practicing safety measures, and consider keeping a sticker chart in the car for immediate gratification.

Agricultural: Clubs such as 4-H are perfect for kids that are interested in plant and animal sciences. Here, they will gain knowledge while making new friends.

PRACTICE. If your child’s behavior has become a serious safety

Religious: Help your child learn more about their faith in religious clubs. These can be social or educational, and many of them include invaluable community service opportunities.

BE A ROLE MODEL. Pay close attention when walking to and

6 7 20

Did you know that 50,000 crashes happen in parking lots and garages each year? On top of risks such as potholes, debris, poor lighting, or slippery conditions, there are also distracted drivers constantly coming and going. Add to the mix a child, and parking lots can seem loaded with danger. Follow these guidelines to keep your children safe.

HealthScopeMag.com

can be anything from never playing around parked cars, holding onto your hand or the cart, and only walking – not running – in parking lots. REWARD GOOD BEHAVIOR. Offer up plenty of praise when you

BUT ALSO GIVE CONSEQUENCES FOR MISBEHAVIOR. Let your

child know if they do something unsafe, and go back to the car for a brief time-out if necessary. concern, take some practice trips where you don’t need to carry anything to or from the car. Use a parking lot that isn’t overcrowded, and review the rules before getting out of the car. from the car, and avoid texting or talking on the phone in order to set a good example.

Non-invasive and surgical treatments available for the reduction of unsightly varicose and spider veins on the legs, face, hands, and more.

Dr. Vincent Gardner is a board-certified surgeon with over 14 years of experience performing endovenous thermal ablation and laser treatments to benefit his patients. He routinely treats visible, unsightly, and often painful veins with innovative, specialized treatments to restore a more attractive appearance with long-lasting results. If vein issues are a concern for you, call 423-551-8346 today to schedule your free consultation. The Vein Institute is located on the top floor of the Southern Surgical Arts building in downtown Chattanooga.

DOWNTOWN CHATTANOOGA

Suite 321, 1405 Cowart Street Chattanooga, TN 37408

423-551-8346 YourVeinInstitute.com

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120 Cornerstone Way #3 Calhoun, GA 30701

H E A LT H I N A M I N U T E F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY

COPING WITH CABIN FEVER Getting cabin fever, which is essentially feelings of isolation or confinement, is normal from time to time. With the winter season and current pandemic upon us, you may be experiencing these emotions more frequently than usual. Cabin fever can easily result in irritability, decreased motivation, food cravings, lethargy, and a slew of other negative feelings, but the good news is there are ways to cope. For starters, try getting out of the house. Daylight helps regulate the body’s natural cycles, and if you are able to exercise, your body will release endorphins. Even a quick walk can make all the difference, but if you must stay inside, try positioning yourself near a window or tuning in to an at-home workout video. Try to avoid TV or anything that is relatively mindless, and instead participate in activities that are engaging for your brain such as reading, putting together a puzzle, or

playing a game. It may also help to set daily or weekly goals for yourself that are reasonable and achievable. Reward yourself when completing these tasks. And it’s no secret the effects your diet can play on your mood. Try to maintain normal eating habits, stay hydrated, and limit high-sugar, high-fat foods.

Removing Stains 101 Whether you’ve had a cooking catastrophe or you’re just a messy muse, the clothes we wear can take a beating. But this doesn’t mean you have to toss them out when slips and spills happen! Read on for how to combat stains using a variety of methods. WATER: You can’t do any harm here. While it might not work on stubborn stains, it can always be a first line of defense. Just rinse, blot, and repeat. VINEGAR: Natural and effective, vinegar is great on wool or synthetics, but spot testing is advised. BLEACH: While this substance may be a harsh product to use, it’s pretty hard to beat its effectiveness when it comes to keeping whites looking like new. DISH SOAP: When mixed with water, dish soap is helpful for getting out a variety of things, but especially grease or condiments. ACETONE: While harsh on synthetic materials, acetone can work extremely well when removing paint stains. RUBBING ALCOHOL: Rubbing alcohol is especially tough on any chemical-based stains, as well as inks and dyes. DETERGENT: A great catch-all, if other methods fail, regular detergent or stain remover will often do the trick when scrubbed before laundering. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE: When it comes to getting out rust or blood stains, hydrogen peroxide is king.

HealthScopeMag.com

H E A LT H I N A M I N U T E FOR THE HOME

Vegetable Turkey Soup SERVES 4 This freezer meal makes the perfect weeknight dinner to feed a hungry family! Garden vegetables and beans add color and fiber, while ground turkey serves as a hearty source of protein. Ingredients

• 1 Ib. ground skinless turkey breast, broken up • 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced • 3 medium zucchini, sliced • 1 small onion, chopped • 1 can no-salt-added tomato sauce

Establishing Efficiency HOW TO CURATE THE PERFECT HOME OFFICE SETUP

People are working from home now more than ever, and if you have struggled to recreate your office environment at home, you’re not alone. Try these quick tips to refresh your existing space into an area primed for productivity. Invest in a comfortable office chair. Use a second monitor. Consider a standing desk. Purchase a quality mouse and keyboard. Follow ergonomic guidelines. Add plants and flowers to your setup. Manage wires. Make sure you have solid high-speed internet. Incorporate natural light. Maintain a brainstorming space. Add décor for a little personality. Clean your home office regularly. Use a separate computer for work. Separate work and living spaces. Have office hours. Lay down ground rules with your family members.

• 1 can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained • 2 medium garlic cloves, minced • 1 Tbsp. dried Italian seasoning • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. pepper • 4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth Directions

1. In a large bowl, stir together all the ingredients except the broth. Transfer the soup to a 1-gallon resealable plastic freezer bag. Place the bag flat in the freezer and freeze. 2. When ready to cook, thaw the bag overnight in the refrigerator. Pour the contents of the bag into a slow cooker. Pour in the broth, stirring to combine. Cook, covered, on low for 8 hours, or until the turkey is no longer pink. Nutritional Information

Calories 224 | Total Fat 1.9g Sodium 314mg | Total Carbohydrate 27g | Dietary Fiber 7g Sugars 11g | Protein 26g Source: American Heart Association

HealthScopeMag.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS CALENDAR February

March

5 National Wear Red Day®

2 Possibilities Virtual Event

The American Heart Association raises awareness about cardiovascular disease every first Friday in February (also known as American Heart Month) with National Wear Red Day®. The AHA encourages women everywhere to join the movement by not only wearing red but knowing their numbers and making positive changes toward a healthier heart. HEART.ORG/CHATTANOOGA

11 Chattanooga Heart Ball

Celebrating the American Heart Association’s efforts to ensure longer, healthier lives for all, the 2021 Heart Ball will be a virtual experience to remember. The schedule features compelling survivor stories, an auction, and a chance for attendees to “open their hearts” to a great cause. Brent and Stephanie Large of Horizon Stone, LLC will serve as the 2021 Chattanooga Heart Ball chairs. CHATTANOOGAHEARTBALL. HEART.ORG

Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation’s 18th annual Possibilities will be a virtual event beginning at 11:30 a.m. Katherine Wolf, whose life nearly ended with a catastrophic stroke just six months after her baby was born, is this year’s featured speaker. Proceeds from the community-wide fundraiser benefit Siskin Hospital’s charity care patients. Advance registration is available on the website or at 423.634.1208. SISKINREHAB.ORG

18 Dalton Heart Ball

In its 35th year, the Dalton Heart Ball will honor the American Heart Association’s life-changing work during this impactful virtual evening. The schedule features compelling survivor stories, an auction, and a chance for attendees to “open their hearts” to a great cause. Mark Clayton of Phenix Flooring will serve as the 2021 Dalton Heart Ball chair. DALTONHEARTBALL.HEART.ORG

April 10 Walk MS: Chattanooga 2021

Walk MS: Chattanooga will look a little different this year, but the National Multiple Sclerosis Society still needs your help in support of a powerful cause: ending MS forever. Participants are encouraged to walk with family and friends around their neighborhood or at a local park while staying socially distanced. Register online today! WALKMS.ORG

17 Believe Bash

Erlanger Health System Foundation’s signature event is a celebration of Children’s Hospital, the kids it serves, and the health heroes serving as physicians, nurses, and staff. Believe Bash’s theme for 2021, “Under the Big Top,” promises fun and excitement, and proceeds will support Children’s Hospital’s greatest needs. Co-chairs of the event are Dr. Bryan and Candy Johnson and Bill and Mary Kilbride. ERLANGER.ORG/BASH

25 HullaBOWLoo Auction

The Chattanooga Area Food Bank is announcing a reimagined HullaBOWLoo 2021 … a first-time, all-virtual online auction culminating on April 25! Taking the place of the signature social event, bidders will find a collection of great items while helping the Food Bank meet the needs of neighbors who come for hope, support, and nourishment. CHATTFOODBANK.ORG 24

HealthScopeMag.com

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

MORNING POINTE OF GREENBRIAR COVE

CHI MEMORIAL MEDICAL GROUP

Ian Shives

Adria Sherrill, FNP-C

Ian Shives has been named the executive director for Morning Pointe of Collegedale at Greenbriar Cove. Shives has nearly a decade of senior living experience, and he holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Southern Adventist University.

Adria Sherrill has joined CHI Memorial Center for Healthy Aging. A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Sherrill is an advanced registered nurse practitioner and certified in family medicine by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

PARKRIDGE HEALTH SYSTEM

Whitney Evans Snardon

Will Windham

Parkridge Health System welcomes Whitney Evans Snardon to the role of market associate administrator and co-ethics and compliance officer. Snardon has served in several healthcare leadership roles, including as a director of a Kentucky hospital’s neuroscience service line.

Will Windham has been named CEO of Parkridge East Hospital. He earned a Master of Hospital and Health Administration degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and has previously served as CEO of LewisGale Hospital Alleghany in Low Moor, Virginia.

ERLANGER HEALTH SYSTEM

UNIVERSITY SURGICAL ASSOCIATES

Cheryl Wieber, MHA

S. Dave Bhattacharya, MD, FACS

Cheryl Wieber has been appointed as senior director of cardiovascular services at the Erlanger Heart and Lung Institute. Weiber, who has over 13 years of administrative experience in healthcare, has overseen clinical areas including cardiology and vascular and cardiothoracic surgery.

Dr. S. Dave Bhattacharya is among the 2,125 initiates who recently became Fellows of the American College of Surgeons. He is a pediatric surgeon providing comprehensive surgical care for children from birth through young adulthood.

ERLANGER HEALTH SYSTEM

UNIVERSITY SURGICAL ASSOCIATES

Kelly Arnold, MD

John C. Huggins, MD, FACS

Dr. Kelly Arnold has been named the 2020 Family Physician of the Year by the Tennessee Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Arnold was nominated for this annual award for her work founding and running the Clinica Medicos, which serves Chattanooga’s Latino community.

Dr. John C. Huggins has met the stringent membership requirements to be initiated into the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Huggins focuses on general surgery, stereotactic and ultrasound-guided biopsies, hernia repair, and breast conservation surgery.

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ASK THE DOCTOR

Q. My sister will be undergoing a kidney transplant soon. What will her recovery be like? A. Following a kidney transplant, patients typically stay in the hospital between three and five days. What determines their discharge is the transition from pain shots to pills, the ability to drink fluids to stay hydrated, and that their post-transplant medication education has been completed. Patients return to the outpatient clinic within a week for labs, more education, to check their incision, and to confirm physical recuperation. Most patients will be off pain medication within the week, but generally feel sore with vigorous activity and fatigued by the end of the day for another one or two weeks. Patients during this time do feel a profound increase in their levels of available energy, as their body is healthier with a kidney keeping their bloodstream free of toxins. From there, they work with the transplant team to make and achieve their physical goals. Alan Koffron, MD Transplant & HPB Surgeon University Surgical Associates universitysurgical.com

Q. How will I know when it’s time for my teenage son to get his wisdom teeth out?

A. Generally, we like to remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 15 and 26. Furthermore, there are several symptoms associated with impacted wisdom teeth that may suggest it’s time to visit your dentist or oral surgeon. If you are experiencing symptoms such as: swelling in the gums at the back of the mouth, pain or irritation when biting or chewing, headache or jaw ache, and/or swollen lymph nodes in your neck, don’t wait to schedule your appointment. Incoming wisdom teeth can also crowd the rest of your teeth, causing misalignment, so it’s best to keep an eye on your teen’s oral health to prevent them from any discomfort or a crooked smile. Ricky Johnson, DDS, MD Oral Surgeon Implants & Oral Surgery of Chattanooga eastbrainerdoms.com

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Q. My father has been diagnosed with carotid artery disease. What are some of his possible treatment options? A. Carotid artery disease – when plaque clogs

the blood vessels – is quite prevalent in the United States and a common cause of stroke. Significant carotid artery blockages should be treated in order to prevent stroke. There are multiple methods of surgically treating these blockages. The most traditional method of treatment in the United States is a carotid endarterectomy. This is where a surgeon makes an incision on the neck, removes the blockage, and repairs the artery. Newer techniques involve placement of stents in the carotid to prop open the blockage. These stents can be delivered from the groin or through a small incision at the base of the neck. Each of these procedures comes with a variety of risks and benefits. There are a multitude of reasons a vascular surgeon may choose to perform an open operation versus a stent, and vice versa. Discuss your options with a vascular surgeon to decide the best option for you. William B. Harris, DO Vascular Surgeon Vascular Institute of Chattanooga vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com

Q. My mother has been struggling with Parkinson’s disease. How do I know when it’s time to seek palliative care services for her? A. To know when it’s time to contact Palliative

Care Services (PCS), a patient and caregiver should understand what palliative care encompasses. Palliative care improves quality of life, provides an extra layer of support, and plans advance directives while focusing on pain and symptom management alongside present curative treatments. Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative illness with physical symptoms and complications increasing as the disease progresses. Patients with early stages of Parkinson's may show symptoms of tremors, difficulty walking, and muscle stiffness. Late stages may show severe posture issues, dementia, difficulty swallowing, and inability to walk. In any stage of Parkinson’s, Palliative Care Services can provide care that improves the patient's quality of life and relieves caregiver stress. PCS treats a patient’s physical symptoms, coordinates care with the patient’s healthcare providers, and communicates with the patient’s caregivers. PCS offers support in the patient’s homes, the PCS clinic, or a hospital setting. Minu Philipose, NP Palliative Care Services Alleo Health System alleohealth.org

Q. Losing weight is something I’ve struggled with for years. How do I know if I’m eligible for bariatric surgery, and if so, what are the options? A. You are not alone – losing weight is often very

frustrating and can cause many people to give up hope of ever reaching a healthy weight. Fortunately, bariatric surgery can help. Most people who qualify for bariatric surgery are clinically obese, with a BMI of > 35 and obesity-related comorbidities like high blood pressure or diabetes, or have a BMI of > 40 with or without comorbidities. There are several surgical options, the two most common of which are gastric bypass and the gastric sleeve. It’s important to meet with a bariatric surgeon and their team and have a multidisciplinary approach, including nutrition, exercise, and support groups as well. Bariatric surgery begins a new lifestyle for many patients and can bring with it a new positive outlook on a healthier life. The surgical team can discuss your specific issues and customize a plan including the surgery that will help you the best. Shannon Beierle, MD Bariatric Surgery Specialist Tennova Healthcare – Cleveland tennova.com

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Heart Disease in Men and Women 6 Differences You Need to Know Heart disease is one of the most common health conditions in adults today. However, the way that it presents itself in men and women can be incredibly different. Here are six ways its effects can vary across the sexes. BY ANNA HILL Heart disease is a highly prevalent health issue in the United States – in fact, it is the leading cause of death in the country and responsible for nearly a quarter of the nation’s deaths each year. However, medicine is always advancing, and the more we learn about heart disease, the better it can be both treated and prevented. As more research is done, medical professionals are increasingly finding that there are some vital distinctions in how heart disease not only presents itself in men and women, but that there are also key differences in risk factors and in how it should be diagnosed as well.

DR. AARON SOUFER CARDIOLOGIST, THE CHATTANOOGA HEART INSTITUTE AT CHI MEMORIAL

DR. ALISON L. BAILEY CHIEF OF CARDIOLOGY, CENTENNIAL HEART AT PARKRIDGE

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What Is Heart Disease? The term “heart disease” actually refers to several different types of conditions. While the most common type is coronary artery disease (CAD), it can also mean a congenital heart defect, an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), heart attack, heart failure, or cardiomyopathy, which is an irregularity in the heart’s walls or muscles.

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1. Differences in Biology It’s no secret that men and women have different physical characteristics, yet many people never stop to think that those differences extend all the way down to the cardiovascular system. Women’s hearts are typically smaller than men’s, and their blood vessels often narrower. This leads to women having a slightly lower cardiac output than men. These physiological differences can naturally lead to a variation of consequences when it comes to heart health in men and women; however, these differences are unfortunately under-researched in the fields of anatomy, physiology, and medicine. 2. Differences in Cholesterol Buildup High cholesterol can lead to buildup of plaque in the arteries and cause damage to major blood vessels, which can result in a heart attack. This plaque buildup is most often detected in the largest arteries that pump blood to the heart. Dr. Aaron Soufer, a cardiologist with The Chattanooga Heart Institute at CHI Memorial, explains that this buildup can happen differently in women.

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“Microvascular coronary artery disease occurs when there is disease in blood vessels that are too small to see on traditional studies. Because women are more likely to have microvascular disease, which is difficult to see on traditional imaging, providers may miss this diagnosis in their female patients,” says Dr. Soufer. 3. Differences in Heart Attack Symptoms The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain and chest pressure. However, a critical difference between men and women experiencing heart attacks is that women are far more likely to present with symptoms that are considered “atypical,” which might lead to them not being aware that what they’re experiencing is a heart attack. According to Dr. Alison L. Bailey, the chief of cardiology with Centennial Heart at Parkridge, “Women may have a wider range of symptoms that includes things like nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath more often than men.” While a heart attack can cause these symptoms in anyone, women experiencing them might not immediately suspect a heart attack.

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4. Differences in Risk of Heart Attack-Mimicking Diseases When it comes to heart conditions, there are several that often imitate the symptoms of a heart attack, and women are far more likely to experience them. For example, women are more likely to experience the following: • Broken heart syndrome: a condition that disrupts the heart’s normal pumping function in reaction to a severe emotional stressor • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: when a tear forms in a blood vessel in the heart, which can slow or block blood flow While the former can mimic a heart attack, the latter can not only mimic one, but eventually lead to one occurring, and both should be taken seriously. 5. Differences in Risk Factors Perhaps one of the most significant differences between men and women in regard to heart disease is the risk factors. Hormones and reproductive history can have a significant impact on heart health. For example, women who experienced preeclampsia or gestational diabetes during pregnancies, as well as women who have PCOS or endometriosis, are at a higher risk of developing heart disease later in life. Dr. Soufer explains that women’s higher risk of autoimmune disease can also affect their heart health. “Having an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, can put someone at higher risk of heart attack and stroke due to the fact that these and other autoimmune diseases cause inflammation in the body that can affect the cardiovascular system,” he explains. “Women are at higher

risk of autoimmune diseases than men, which is another risk factor for women regarding their cardiovascular health.” Furthermore, researchers have found that naturally occurring estrogen relaxes the walls of the arteries, which allows blood to flow easily. When women go through menopause, their levels of estrogen decrease, which can lead to a loss in flexibility in the arteries and therefore a higher risk of heart disease. This change due to menopause might also explain why women are more likely to experience heart attacks at a later stage in life than men. 6. Differences in Diagnostic Care As healthcare advances, medical researchers are finding that there might not be a universal ideal when it comes to diagnosing heart disease in men and women. For example, one of the diagnostic tools to determine if someone is having a heart attack is a cardiac troponin (cTn) test – high levels of cTn can indicate heart damage. However, some women fall below the clinical threshold of the test, despite the fact that they are very much experiencing a heart attack. As mentioned previously, women are more likely to experience plaque buildup in their microvasculature, and such dysfunction is usually best recognized with positron emission tomography (PET) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Unfortunately, these diagnostic tests have a lower availability than other, more traditional options, which could be a reason that heart disease is under-recognized in women. Another obstacle that women face with diagnostic care is that they often go completely undiagnosed in general. “Women tend to not follow up with routine health visits in early life, and this is a time when a lot of early disease can be detected,” Dr. Bailey says.

Though heart disease is incredibly common, there are several steps you can take to greatly lower your risk. Take charge of your health by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and refraining from smoking. You can also work alongside your doctor to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. By being mindful of your lifestyle and keeping tabs on your health, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and increase your chance of many more healthy years to come. HS

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ANXIETY AND SLEEP DEPRIVATION Your Questions, Answered

Anxiety and losing sleep often go hand in hand. For those who experience both, it can be a bit of a “chicken or the egg” situation, as either can cause the other. Lack of adequate sleep can cause poor mental health, and in turn, anxiety can prevent you from getting proper sleep. However, no matter the cause, there are steps you can take to both reduce your anxiety and return to a healthy sleeping routine. Here, healthcare providers answer six questions about this common issue. BY ANNA HILL

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Does anxiety cause sleep deprivation, or vice versa? Or both? The answer here is both – either can occur. There are numerous health conditions that can be linked to lack of sleep, some of which include arthritis, asthma, acid reflux, abnormal thyroid function, and dementia. Sleep deprivation may also be simply a result of your lifestyle – maybe you work long hours every week, have an odd schedule, or a new baby is keeping you up at night. Sleep deprivation in these scenarios can certainly trigger an anxiety response. Kathy Hilbert, a clinical mental health counselor with Roots Counseling Center, further explains, “Sleep deprivation can also be a symptom of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. If you are experiencing intense levels of anxiety, your body produces adrenaline in response to a perceived or actual threat in order to prepare your body for the fight/flight/freeze response. As you can imagine, this mental and physical state is not conducive to sleep.” However, if disrupted sleep predates the anxiety you’ve begun to experience, it is likely that the lack of sleep is causing the anxiety, and not vice versa.

How can sleep deprivation affect your mental and physical health? Unfortunately, many people take a good night’s sleep for granted when it comes to their health. Sleep is important in that it gives your brain downtime to recover from your day and to prepare for the next one. Not getting enough sleep can affect many different aspects of your daily routine; in fact, according to Michael W. Stein, a licensed professional counselor with Hamilton Physician Group - Behavioral Health, “Decreased sleep can contribute to stress, and stress can contribute to the hormonal release of cortisol, which is an inflammatory hormone

MICHAEL W. STEIN LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR, HAMILTON PHYSICIAN GROUP BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

KATHY HILBERT CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR, ROOTS COUNSELING CENTER

with negative health consequences. Decreased sleep can affect your ability to concentrate and focus your thoughts, as well as increase confusion and diminish short-term memory.” Furthermore, depriving your body of sleep also deprives it of the opportunity to repair itself on a cellular level – some evidence even suggests that this can lead to lowered immune system function and a heightened risk of heart attack or stroke.

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How can anxiety affect your health? Persisting anxiety and chronic stress can have a variety of effects on the rest of your health, mental and physical. Heightened, enduring anxiety can lead to depression and even suicidal ideation, which can sometimes cause people to turn to negative coping behaviors such as drinking, misuse of drugs, unhealthy eating habits, and inactivity, all of which can undermine your physical health. Hilbert adds that anxiety can also more directly affect your body, saying, “Some people who struggle with anxiety can experience panic attacks, which are intense, somatic experiences brought on by our brain’s hyper-response to a perceived threat.” Lasting anxiety can also lead to tension headaches and other illnesses.

What are some ways to reduce or combat anxiety? One of the first steps toward managing your anxiety is recognizing that it is in fact a condition that’s affecting you, whether that be through loss of sleep, trouble focusing at work, racing thoughts, or other symptoms. Thankfully, there are many techniques that you can try to reduce your overall anxiety levels. Some of these might include activities such as meditation, visualization, exercise, or working to control your breathing. Another common technique involves distraction and re-centering your focus on things that you can control. Stein explains, “Relaxation breathing techniques distract a person from the stimuli that may be causing the anxiety. This refocusing provides a sense of control over a situation that may seem out of control.” According to Stein, the goal of these techniques is for the person to manage their anxiety, rather than their anxiety controlling them.

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University Surgical Associates once again expands exceptional surgical services in Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia by adding 5 surgeons to our team, including the region’s only HPB and kidney transplant surgeons. PEDIATRIC SURGERY

HPB & TRANSPLANT SURGERY

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DR. JEREMY FISHER

DRS. ALAN & JULIE KOFFRON

• Fellowship-trained pediatric surgeon

• Fellowship-trained HPB surgeon husband and wife team

• Fellowship-trained colon & rectal surgeon

• Fellowship-trained kidney and liver transplant surgeon

• Trained at Cornell University/Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City

• Extensive pediatric surgery research background • Trained at Emory, Harvard, and Ohio State

• Patient-centered approach to pancreatic and liver conditions

UNIVERSITYSURGICAL.COM

DR. ALAN HYDE

VASCULAR SURGERY

DR. NEELIMA KATRAGUNTA • Fellowship-trained vascular surgeon from University of Tennessee College of Medicine Chattanooga • Taught at Stanford University in California

423-267-0466

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What are some signs that someone might be experiencing an anxiety disorder, instead of occasional situational anxiety? Is the fact that it affects someone’s sleep an indicator? In day-to-day life, most people will experience anxiety in stressful situations – it’s incredibly common, and part of being human. However, Hilbert explains, “When symptoms are enduring and negatively impact multiple domains of your life, such as home, work, physical health, and relationships, and you are distressed as a result, it may be beneficial to consult a therapist to assess whether a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder is appropriate.” Anxiety disorders interfere with your daily life, and this could include a lack of sleep, though it should be noted a lack of sleep isn’t necessarily a surefire indicator of an anxiety disorder. If you’re unsure, Hilbert advises that you not only seek medical evaluation in order to rule out any underlying medical conditions and gain some clarity on what’s affecting you, but also consider mental health therapy to assess and potentially treat your anxiety.

If anxiety is keeping someone awake at night, what can they do to get better sleep? Outside of seeking treatment or counseling to manage your anxiety, there are several strategies that can be used to encourage better sleep. According to Stein, a healthy sleep environment can be key to improving your sleep routine. “We know that environmental factors affect the quality of sleep, such as random noises or intermittent light breaking the sleep cycle,” he says. “Once these barriers to the sleep experience are identified, we can modify the sleep environment to potentially enhance the sleep experience.” Techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation might also improve your night’s sleep. Research indicates that intentionally developing a bedtime routine, which involves a combination of different tasks done nightly before your head hits the pillow, can help prepare you for more restful sleep. Such a routine might include limiting screen time before bed, taking a warm shower just before going to sleep, or going to sleep around the same time each night.

Anxiety and loss of sleep can take a toll on your day-to-day life, but luckily, there are ways to combat it. Whether it be mindfulness about your mental and physical routines, or reaching out for professional help, there’s a path for you when it comes to seeking a calmer mind and more restful sleep. HS

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From Smallpox to COVID-19 THE EVOLUTION OF THE VACCINE

BY ANNA HILL

The word “vaccine” has been on the tip of everyone’s tongues lately, and for good reason. Historically, vaccines have been used to prevent the spread of – and sometimes even eradicate – infectious diseases. Thanks to medical immunization, naturally occurring smallpox has been eliminated, and polio has been virtually erased. But how did we reach that point, and where are we going from here? Stay tuned to learn more about vaccines and how the stage is set for them to change the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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DR. PAUL CORNEA INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST, CHI MEMORIAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE ASSOCIATES

DR. EUGENE RYAN INTERNAL MEDICINE PHYSICIAN, PARKRIDGE MEDICAL GROUP

DR. JAY SIZEMORE CMO, CEMPA COMMUNITY CARE MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF INFECTION PREVENTION, ERLANGER HEALTH SYSTEM

Infectious diseases have plagued civilization for millennia. The first recorded pandemic in history was the Plague of Athens, which killed about 100,000 people in 430 BCE. Perhaps the most infamous pandemic, The Black Death, was a form of bubonic plague that emerged in the 1340s and would recur every few decades up through the 18th century, ultimately killing around 50 million. In the last century, the Spanish Flu wreaked havoc in 1918 and resurged in the ‘50s and ‘60s, also taking the lives of 50 million. However, over the last 200 years, medicine has made incredible strides regarding infectious diseases – not only in treatment, but in prevention. As the years have gone by, successful vaccines for diseases like smallpox, typhus, cholera, polio, tuberculosis, and the flu have been developed, which has greatly reduced or virtually eliminated the possibility of a widespread epidemic caused by known strains of those diseases. This kind of success is what currently gives everyone hope for the newly developed COVID-19 vaccines, as they will be a giant step forward when it comes to returning to life as we once knew it.

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Early Vaccines Though vaccines have only existed in their currently known form since the end of the 18th century, the idea of inoculation – deliberate introduction of viral material to the body to prevent greater infection – has been hinted at since 10th-century China. The practice transferred particles from an infected person to the uninfected person via inhalation or incision. In the West, Edward Jenner is generally considered the founder of vaccines, as he performed successful inoculation of smallpox in 1796, with the first official smallpox vaccine being developed just two years later. French biologist Louis Pasteur is to thank for the development of the cholera and anthrax vaccines, which he developed nearly a century after Jenner’s smallpox immunity experiment. Beyond the turn of the 20th century, vaccine development and success increased exponentially.

Modern Vaccines In the last 100 years, a wide variety of vaccines has been developed and implemented across the globe. In the 1950s, one of the most vital vaccines that the general public awaited was the polio vaccine, as polio, a life-threatening disease that can leave one paralyzed, had begun to sweep through children in epidemics every summer. In 1955, virologist Jonas Salk’s polio vaccine was deemed effective, and distribution began shortly after. Thanks to his vaccine and its further advancements, polio has been considered eliminated from the United States for over 30 years. As the 20th century progressed, so did vaccine research. After the success of the polio vaccine, vaccines for the measles, mumps, and rubella followed in the next decade. In the 1970s, use of the smallpox vaccine was discontinued, as the disease had been eradicated. Hepatitis and meningitis vaccines came next, as did the discontinuation of the polio vaccine in the year 2000 thanks to elimination of the disease. Most recently, successful vaccines for HPV and different variations of the flu have been developed, and medical researchers are constantly working to produce new vaccines for diseases that persistently pervade society.

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HOW VACCINES WORK Vaccines introduce a very weak or inactivated version of the virus to the body in a carefully measured dose. It then reproduces in the body a very limited amount of times – just enough for the body to begin producing “memory B cells,” which will protect against infection for that particular virus in the future. The COVID-19 vaccines, however, are a new type of vaccine called an mRNA vaccine, which teaches the body’s cells to make a protein that triggers the immune response needed to protect the body from infection.

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The Impact of Vaccines The development and advancement of vaccines has had an undeniably positive impact on public health. Dr. Paul Cornea, an infectious disease specialist with CHI Memorial Infectious Disease Associates, emphasizes the importance of vaccines, especially in regard to children’s health. “The vaccines have had a tremendous role in reducing mortality, especially in children, to the point that the younger generations are completely unaware of the devastating effects of the infections prevented by vaccines,” he says. As previously mentioned, vaccines can also play a role in eliminating a public health crisis if they are used on a consistent and widespread basis. Dr. Jay Sizemore, chief medical officer at Cempa Community Care and the medical director of infection prevention at Erlanger Health System, cites the measles vaccine as an example of how vital they are to public health: “The World Health Organization (WHO) granted the United States a Measles Elimination Status in 2000. Our country nearly lost that status in 2019 when 1,282 cases were reported, largely in individuals who had forgone this vaccine.”

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The COVID-19 Vaccine In March of 2020, the WHO officially declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic. A mere nine months later, the first vaccine for the virus, created by Pfizer, was given the green light by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, with the Moderna vaccine following shortly after. Dr. Eugene Ryan, an internal medicine physician with Parkridge Medical Group, considers these vaccines, proven to be over 90% effective, game changers when it comes to infectious diseases. “The most formative vaccine in recent history will have to be the COVID-19 vaccine,” he explains. “This vaccine was developed in record time to battle a global pandemic.” As these vaccines begin to roll out in phases to the public, medical professionals are optimistic. When asked about the outlook for 2021, Dr. Sizemore believes it to be “excellent,” saying, “I suspect that we will be able to offer a COVID-19 vaccine to all who want it in our country during the first six months of 2021.” Dr. Cornea believes the year will be an excellent opportunity for a global learning experience, stating, “I also hope that the vaccines will continue to prove their safety and the people who are reluctant to take the vaccine now will later come on board.” While the current state of the global pandemic might feel disheartening, Dr. Ryan believes there is much hope to be had. “My hope is that we will vaccinate over 90% of the population in the next 12 months,” he says. “The outlook is dim right now, like one candle in the darkness – but this darkness is brightening with everyone who gets immunized, and soon the darkness will be gone.” HS

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OBESITY IN OLDER ADULTS Maintaining a Healthy Weight as You Age BY ANNA HILL

s you grow older, staying fit and healthy is more important than ever â€“ yet the prevalence of obesity in older adults is on the rise. Obesity in the elderly can not only impact morbidity and mortality, but it can also have negative effects on your quality of life. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to not only lose weight, but prevent obesity, and with mindful attention to your changing health and nutritional needs, you can greatly increase your chance of maintaining an active lifestyle in your golden years.

DR. MELANIE BLAKE PHYSICIAN, LIFESTYLE MEDICINE AT GALEN MEDICAL GROUP

ALISHA LANDES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE LANTERN AT MORNING POINTE

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Causes of Obesity in Older Adults As you age, your body goes through several changes. Older adults universally experience a loss of muscle mass, which in turn means less strength and can lead to a decrease in exercise. Nutritional needs in older adults shift to match the body’s changing needs, and most older adults don’t need as high of a caloric intake as younger adults to remain healthy. Therefore, maintaining a similar diet to the one you were accustomed to in your younger years might lead to excess calorie consumption. Furthermore, according to Alisha Landes, executive director at The Lantern at Morning Pointe, mental decline due to age can also lead to nutritional problems. “Cognitive impairment could be a risk factor in that elderly adults may forget that they just ate and not be aware of healthy eating habits,” she says. In some cases, other health issues can even be to blame. Dr. Melanie Blake, a physician with Lifestyle Medicine at Galen Medical Group, explains, “Weight gain could be a sign of another medical condition, so a thorough medical evaluation to rule out causes such as hypothyroidism or a cardiac condition is warranted.” Some people also have a genetic predisposition for being overweight or obese, and chances are, if you’ve struggled with obesity for most of your life, you’ll still be struggling with it as an older adult.

“Cognitive impairment could be a risk factor in that elderly adults may forget that they just ate and not be aware of healthy eating habits.” Alisha Landes, The Lantern at Morning Pointe

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The Effects of Obesity While obesity itself is not considered to be a chronic condition, in older adults it’s considered to be a risk factor for other chronic conditions, many of which are lifethreatening. In fact, among other commonly known health risk factors, such as smoking, heavy drinking, and poverty, obesity has the most widespread effect on the population and is the most strongly linked risk factor to chronic illness. Obesity can heighten your risk of heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, and cancer – all of which are in the top 10 causes of death in the United States. Obese older adults are also more likely to experience long-term disability or chronic symptoms of illnesses, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or other respiratory difficulties, and they are more likely to experience depression than adults of the same age at a healthy weight.

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While obesity can take a direct toll on the health of older adults, it can take a toll on their wallets and lifestyle as well. Medical spending for obese adults of all ages is higher on average compared to adults at a healthy weight, and the likelihood of spending more increases as the likelihood of conditions such as stroke, heart disease, or cancer increases. Obesity can also exacerbate joint problems in older adults, making it difficult to not only exercise, but to participate in daily tasks such as shopping, going for a walk, or cleaning the house. Studies have also linked obesity in older adults with more rapidly deteriorating cognition and mental acuity compared to older adults at a healthier weight.

Prevention and Weight Loss Fortunately, with a proactive approach, senior adults can work toward preventing excessive weight gain as they age. It’s imperative to regularly visit a primary care physician for wellness exams, as they can keep you informed of your changing nutritional needs as well as identify any potential risk factors that you might have. According to Dr. Blake, making healthy choices in your diet is key. “Focusing on eating plenty of vegetables while avoiding processed foods and refined sugar will help,” she explains. “Increasing water intake and avoiding liquid calories is also beneficial. Simple strategies such as eating off a smaller plate and being mind-

ful of both frequency and quantity of food can go a long way in lowering your overall caloric intake.” As for adding activity into your routine, Landes advises that you try to be as active as you can in a way that’s suitable for you. She explains, “Maybe that means going for a daily walk in your neighborhood or just using some light weights to lift in your living room. Cater some activity around what you can do safely. Concentrate on movement.” For older adults already struggling with being overweight or obese – don’t worry. It’s never too late to take control of your health! However, weight loss in the senior population can be slightly more complex than it is in younger adults and needs to be discussed with and monitored by a healthcare provider. As weight loss often involves loss of muscle as well as fat, extra care needs to be taken when it comes to changing the diet and nutrition of an older adult trying to slim down; diet composition matters just as much as calorie restriction. Under the supervision of a physician, safe weight loss can certainly be achieved.

hough obesity poses health risks to people of any age, it can be particularly dangerous for the older population, as it’s one of the greatest risk factors when it comes to developing chronic conditions. However, with close monitoring from your physician, you can safely strive for a healthy weight and gain confidence that you’ll have many more healthy years to come. HS HealthScopeMag.com

SILVER SIDE

BEATING THE WINTER AND QUARANTINE BLUES By Piper Kyle

Nights are longer, the temperatures are freezing, sickness is stirring. Yes, winter is showing off its beautiful, but sometimes miserable, side. This year, itâ€™s even more trying because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It seems as if winter may seem longer this year due to being quarantined, but we can Fight the crippling jaws of anxiety and depression that winter can bring by following these few tips.

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First, develop a daily positive routine. You may not realize this, but you have a routine every day. However, take a few minutes to think about your morning habits: Are you adding positivity to your morning routines or just waking up and checking your phone, going through emails and piling on stress? Set the tone for your day from the start. It is important to go to bed early and wake up at a reasonable time. Try setting your alarm tone to something pleasant and relaxing if jarring sounds startle you or tend to negatively set your mood for the day. You want to wake up in the morning feeling good. Here are some examples of how to start your day off happy and relaxed: • Make a gratitude list to ponder. • Listen to positive content and continue doing so throughout the day. • Eat healthy foods. • Drink water. • Use your technology to catch up with family and friends.

Second, dress for the life you want to live, even in quarantine. During this time of quarantine, many people are taking advantage of wearing comfortable clothing such as pajamas and sweats, but this can be a big no-no. There is a connection between your outward appearance and how you feel internally. As humans, we naturally feel better about ourselves if we feel we look good on the outside. Keep yourself up during quarantine. Don’t abandon good hygiene or personal grooming; do wear what makes you feel good and positive!

Third, take a few minutes to go outside. Yes, even in the wintertime, try going outside on the nicer days, even if it is only for a few minutes. Sunlight is not the only reason for going outside; fresh

air plays a big role in your physical and mental health. Sometimes we hear that it is too cold, but layers can be our best friends to help us stay warm. If you don’t feel comfortable going outside or if your city is under lockdown, you can always open a window for a few minutes and at least enjoy some fresh air from the outside on the inside.

Fourth, always make sure you exercise. Exercise is our friend. If affects our physical and mental health. If you need guidance or an exercise partner, virtual exercises and workouts are easily accessible through technology. You can search any type of virtual workout to encourage you and help you. If you are still finding your motivation is lacking, have an accountability buddy that you can call, FaceTime, or text to help get you going and encourage you.

Fifth, and lastly, reach out to people dear to you. During this pandemic, although parties and many types of holiday gatherings are discouraged, we do have the ability to connect with those we love virtually through several online platforms, including: • FaceTime • Skype • Duo • Zoom It is important to connect with loved ones during this time for your mental health. When we feel loved, our brain relseases the hormone oxytocin. This hormone makes you happy and has a positive impact on your mood. Now is the time to get closer to others – at a safe distance – and connecting with loved ones will do a world of good to help you maintain a happy attitude throughout the pandemic and winter season. By practicing these tips, we can hopefully avoid the quarantine blues and stay positive, no matter what Life Care Centers of America comes our way.

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LEARN MORE www.Heart.org/Chattanooga

STAY WELL

Annual Bone & Joint Section

Bones and joints are easily taken for granted, but theyâ€™re absolutely vital to our health and day-to-day activities. In the following section, learn how to keep your bones and joints healthy so that you can keep an active lifestyle for many more years to come.

BY ANNA HILL

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STAY WELL ANNUAL BONE & JOINT SECTION

Partial Knee Resurfacing This innovative approach offers several benefits for those suffering from joint pain.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

There are three primary compartments to your knee, and two of them are weight-bearing. Partial knee resurfacing is a procedure that’s ideal for someone who has been diagnosed with arthritis in one of those weight-bearing compartments and hasn’t found nonsurgical treatments, such as medication, to be sufficient when it comes to restored mobility and pain relief. Most patients who are a good candidate for this procedure often experience pain on one side of their knee while exerting themselves, but not necessarily while at rest.

Partial Knee Resurfacing vs. Total Knee Resurfacing

Total knee resurfacing – also known as knee replacement – differs greatly from partial knee resurfacing in both recovery time and the procedure itself. When a knee is replaced, the quadriceps muscle is cut, and all parts of the knee joint are then resurfaced with metal and plastic components. However, during a partial knee resurfacing procedure, only one element of the knee joint is resurfaced, which results in a more natural and flexible feel thanks to the fact that the other, still well-functioning compartments of your knee are left in place. Furthermore, the procedure for partial resurfacing is less invasive, which can lead to less pain and swelling, a shorter hospitalization, and a quicker recovery time.

Recent Advancements

Previously, partial knee resurfacing experienced limited popularity due to the fact that the incision size and recovery time weren’t any different from that of a total knee replacement procedure, therefore giving little incentive to choose a partial resurfacing over a full resurfacing. Fortunately, the procedure has undergone advancements in recent years and has been much improved by the Repicci method, which does not require the cutting of muscle and uses a smaller incision. The implants used in the procedure have also improved, which results in a reduced need for bone removal as well as a faster recovery.

Recovery

Partial knee resurfacing can usually be done in an outpatient setting, which means patients often don’t need to stay at the hospital longer than one night. Formal physical therapy is rarely needed as part of the recovery process, and most patients are able to return to daily activities without assistance within one to two weeks post-op. Of course, this may vary depending on each individual patient’s needs. HS

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An Expert Weighs In “Many athletes and runners are bow-legged, and as they age, they become susceptible to degenerative arthritis of the inside, or medial compartment, of the knee. Minimally invasive partial knee resurfacing is tailored to each patient and only addresses the damaged part of the knee. This benefits older athletes with degenerative arthritis because – in contrast to total knee replacement – the procedure preserves the ACL and doesn’t scar the quadriceps muscle, giving them a naturalfeeling and stable knee.” Dr. Martin Redish Orthopedic Surgeon Parkridge Bone & Joint

Walk-in Clinic NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY

Parkridge Bone & Joint proudly offers orthopedic walk-in clinic services for patients who have suffered an acute orthopedic injury – such as sprains, strains or fractures – within the past week and who have not received treatment for the injury. Martin H. Redish, MD

Christopher Pankiw, MD

Ben Plahtinsky, PA-C

Lauren Milleville, PA-C

Walk-In Clinic Locations: • 2205 McCallie Ave, Suite 102 Chattanooga, TN 37404

• 1510 Gunbarrel Road, Suite 120 Chattanooga, TN 37421

For more information, please visit www.ParkridgeBoneAndJoint.com/WalkInClinic

STAY WELL ANNUAL BONE & JOINT SECTION

Gum Disease and Bone Loss If not caught in time, poor oral health can lead to a variety of unpleasant side effects, such as decreasing bone density and tooth loss.

An Expert Weighs In “When it comes to oral health, it is important to have a proactive approach. Start with making sure your home routine is appropriate for you. It is important to have regular checkups and cleanings to help prevent or find any oral health problems. Early detection can prevent these problems from escalating over time. If issues are untreated, it can lead to possible pain, infection, and tooth loss. Ask your dentist about any concerns you may have. Our goal is for you to have a happy and healthy smile.” Dr. Mandy Shearer Dentist Soddy Daisy Smiles

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease – also known as periodontal disease – is an infection of the areas that surround your teeth. There are stages associated with gum disease that range in severity, and symptoms can include swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, and more. The most common and least severe stage is gingivitis, followed by periodontitis. By the time you reach periodontitis, you might begin to experience loose teeth or bone loss in the jaw.

Gum Disease and Bone Loss

Gums play an important role in keeping your teeth healthy and in place. If you aren’t taking proper care of your oral hygiene, there’s a high likelihood you’ll develop advanced gum disease over time. This can lead to the growth and spread of bacteria in your mouth, which can eventually lead to receding gums. The space left behind serves as a breeding ground for infections, which can attack connective tissue and bone that stand in their way. If left unchecked, this deterioration can reach your jawbone and the tissues that hold your teeth in place, which often leads to tooth loss. Unfortunately, tooth loss isn’t the only issue associated with gum disease you need to be concerned with. When an 56

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infection reduces bone density in the jaw, it can alter your facial structure and may even make it challenging for you to bite, chew, or speak. It can also cause difficulty when it comes to fitting dentures or increase the risk of complications with oral surgeries.

Treatment

There are several treatment options, depending on the severity your gum disease has reached. One nonsurgical option, called scaling and root planing, is a method that involves your dentist using a tool to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and root surfaces and smoothing away roughness so the gums can reattach themselves to the teeth. If your case is more severe, you might need a surgical option such as pocket reduction or gum grafting.

Prevention

The best way to prevent gum disease is to rigorously follow a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing is the first line of defense against dental plaque and gum infections. Additionally, regular routine dentist visits will cut down your risk of disease, as dental cleanings can eliminate plaque in areas your toothbrush alone cannot reach. HS

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A smile can brighten anyone’s day, but what if you’re afraid to flash those pearly….not-so-whites? Drs. Mandy and Robert Shearer have what you need to get your grin gleaming! Before you make a trip to your local drugstore for over-the-counter whiteners, consider making an appointment at Soddy Daisy Smiles. Using Opalescence, a professional teeth whitener that offers breathtaking results, they’ll monitor your progress and have you smiling confidently with the pearly whites you’ve been dreaming of!

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STAY WELL ANNUAL BONE & JOINT SECTION

Alternatives to Spinal Fusion Is persistent back pain affecting your day-to-day life? These treatment options can provide relief while preserving motion in your spine.

Spinal fusion is a surgical technique designed to join two or more vertebrae – a bit like “welding” components of your spine together. The goal of this procedure is to fuse damaged vertebrae into a single, solid bone to reduce pain and restore stability to the spine. In the past, spinal fusions were standard for many back problems, such as degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, herniated discs, and more. However, the procedure is an invasive one, which often means reduced motion and a longer recovery period. Over the years, orthopedic surgeons have learned that spinal fusions may not always be necessary, and that back pain can be eliminated without having to limit your motion by fusing bone.

Weighing the Options

Depending on your individual needs, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following alternatives to alleviate pain while preserving range of motion: Physical Therapy – Physical therapy is designed to improve muscle strength and endurance while reducing pain. Furthermore, it is great for your overall health, mobility, and aerobic fitness. Steroid Injections – These quick and relatively painless injections can temporarily relieve pain in the neck, arms, back, and legs caused by inflammation of the spinal nerves. Radiofrequency Ablation – With this minimally invasive procedure, heat is used to “ablate,” or burn, the nerve causing pain in the lower back, neck, or arthritic joints. This prevents pain signals from reaching the brain. Surgical Options – If the above options aren’t sufficient, sometimes surgery is necessary to relieve nerve compression causing pain or weakness, but non-fusion options are available that are less invasive and offer quicker recovery times.

Exploring the Benefits

One of the considerable downsides of spinal fusion is a potential loss of mobility in the spine. Fusions can also put pressure or stress on the vertebrae above and below the fusion, which can cause them to break down and degenerate sooner than they otherwise might. This leads to an increased likelihood of further surgery down the road. Through nonsurgical alternative methods, you can find improvement without the risks of surgery and anesthesia. If surgery is required, non-fusion options can be performed using minimally invasive techniques that allow for shorter operating time and quicker recovery; in most cases, patients can go home the same day. HS

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An Expert Weighs In “While there are multiple causes for spine pain, thankfully a variety of management techniques are available, including non-invasive or minimally invasive options. Most patients can benefit from a comprehensive, team-based approach to diagnosis and management of pain. At CSMO, we tailor individual treatment plans to the patient, utilizing a variety of techniques.” Dr. Candace McKee Interventional Pain Management Physician Center for Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics

STAY WELL ANNUAL BONE & JOINT SECTION

Managing Metastatic Bone Disease The effects of metastatic bone disease can vary widely from case to case. However, there are several different treatment options available to help patients manage their pain and maintain their day-to-day activity levels.

Defining Metastatic Bone Disease

Metastatic bone disease originates from cancer that begins in an organ, then later spreads to bone. Once a patient’s cancer spreads to bone, it can cause pain, as well as damage or weaken the bone, which increases the risk of pathologic fracture. Furthermore, it can make daily activities more difficult, which leads to a decline in quality of life. The bones that most commonly experience metastases include: • Spine • Ribs

• Long bones in the leg • Skull

• Pelvis • Upper arm

While this condition often causes bone damage, it can cause abnormal growth as well, which can lead to deformities in the bone. Some of the most common symptoms of metastatic bone disease include constant, night-time, and functional pain in the spine, pelvis, or extremities; fractures that occur from minor injuries; and anemia, which results from reduced red blood cell production from weakened bone marrow. Bone metastases can cause pain from the local effect of the cancer eating away the bone, tumor pain, pain from the bone structure being weakened, or functional pain.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Thankfully, there are multiple treatment options for managing metastatic bone disease. Radiation alone is an excellent way to treat tumor-related pain. Radiation treatments kill cancer cells, which can help to reduce pain as well as prevent bones from deteriorating further. Radiation can also be used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, but radiation should not be used alone if the bone is at risk of breaking. Another nonsurgical option for treatment is medicine, which can come in the form of chemotherapy, endocrine (or hormone) therapy, or bisphosphonates, the latter of which works by interfering with the cells that cause breakdown of your bones.

Surgical Treatment

When it comes to metastatic bone disease, surgery can be used to treat or prevent broken bones as well as restore skeletal strength, which is important for those who wish to regain the ability to return to some of their normal, daily routines. Broken or weakened bones need to be fixed in position and supported long enough for them to heal or regain their strength. Surgery accomplishes this by stabilizing the bone with devices such as wires, plates, rods, pins, and screws, and bone cement is also occasionally used to provide added strength to the weakened bone. If joints are involved with metastatic bone disease, total joint repair or replacement may also be necessary to restore function.

Outlook

It’s important to keep in mind that treatments for metastatic bone disease are not meant to be curative. However, these treatments can significantly improve someone’s quality of life and help them return to daily routines and activities that destroyed joints, weak bones, or bone pain previously kept them from. Every patient should discuss their options with their oncologist to establish a treatment plan that’s best suited to them. HS

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An Expert Weighs In “Metastatic bone disease is a challenging problem that dictates multidisciplinary oncologic care. As chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic systemic treatment regimens continue to improve, patients are requiring increasingly advanced and durable options to address impending or complete pathologic fractures resulting from metastases to bone. It is critical to address metastatic bone disease with radiation, surgery, or both before the bone breaks. Equipped with the latest technologic advances in resection techniques, robotic joint replacements, biologic and endoprosthetic reconstructions, and musculoskeletal implants, orthopaedic oncologists are specifically trained in diagnosing and managing metastases to bone.” Dr. Ryan Voskuil Orthopaedic Oncologist Erlanger Health System

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Erlanger Sports Medicine Walk-in Clinic • 1100 E. 3rd Street (across from McDonald’s) HOURS: Mon-Thurs, 8am-4pm • Fri, 8am-Noon

STAY WELL ANNUAL BONE & JOINT SECTION

Preserving Bone with Dental Implants When experiencing bone loss in your jaw, dental implants can be an excellent – and permanent – solution.

People lose teeth for a variety of reasons: age, gum disease, trauma. Unfortunately, when you lose a tooth, the gums and portion of your jawbone left behind will begin to weaken and deteriorate. When part of your jawbone begins to recede, it weakens the entire bone. While there are many options for replacing teeth, dental implants are the clear choice for those looking to not only repair their smile, but preserve the bone in their jaw.

What They Are A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that creates a permanent base for a replacement tooth. The implanted fixture is usually made of medical-grade titanium, and over time, it fuses with the existing bone in your jaw, creating a sturdy, permanent support for your new tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple, depending on the individual’s needs.

How They Work Because dental implants fuse with your existing bone over time, they provide the stability that was lost in the absence of a loose or extracted tooth. Not only do they preserve existing bone, but they stimulate bone growth as well, as the existing portion of your jawbone will generate cells that work to fuse with the implant. The artificial root of the implant will not deteriorate like a natural root will, so there is less likelihood of continued jawbone deterioration due to tooth loss at that location in your mouth.

Why They Might Be for You While dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that will preserve bone in your jaw, there are a host of other benefits in choosing them. They can be a permanent option that improves both your oral health and your smile, as they look and feel like natural teeth. They can also improve your ability to speak and eat, eliminating the routines and complications that can accompany removable dentures. Overall, the goal of a dental implant procedure is to permanently restore function to your teeth, preserve the health of your gums and jawbone, and improve your confidence in your smile for years to come. HS

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An Expert Weighs In “As implant technology has improved over the decades, we have been able to provide same-day solutions. In many situations, we can place an implant the same day that the tooth is removed. This means less surgery, less healing time, and a faster recovery. In some cases, we can attach a tooth or teeth to the implant on the same day as the surgery.” Dr. Jason M. Strever Periodontist and Board-Certified Implant Surgeon North River Periodontics

New Year, New Teeth

Maintain Healthy Bone with Implants

Missing teeth leads to bone loss over time. Dental implants are excellent ways to replace teeth, as well as maintain and preserve healthy bone. From single teeth to a full set of teeth, we can offer multiple options to help restore your smile and your confidence to eat the foods you enjoy.

MME E ET T O OU UR R MMO OD DE EL L S

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Photo by Lanewood Studio

“Your 20s are so weird,” laughs Liz Kelley, a lifelong Chattanoogan and physical therapist at Erlanger Health System. “But this decade is also so rewarding and sweet. I love this stage of life and how crazy it is!” At 27 years old, Kelley is taking her current decade by storm: She’s graduated from college and graduate school, traveled to Europe with friends, adopted a dog, and landed her dream job helping patients recover from injury and illness. Kelley is also our first cover model of 2021, and here, she’s reflecting on this weird, rewarding, crazy time in her life.

HS What do health and wellness mean to you in this decade? LK In my early 20s, when I was in grad school, I was just trying to survive off little sleep and the occasional “fad” health trend. Now that I’m in the real world and have a little more time to focus on myself, I’ve been intentional about creating a healthy lifestyle that’s sustainable. Physical activity is a priority for me, as is my mental health. I’m more in tune with my body and know that what I eat directly affects how I feel. These past few years have been about finding balance and actually practicing what I preach to my patients. HS What are your favorite ways to practice self-care? LK I live near the Riverwalk, and it’s such a blessing to be able to get out of my apartment and move (especially with my dog). I also believe that my time is my currency, and I want to invest in people and in activities that help me recharge. My friendships and my faith fill me up.

HS If you could give one piece of advice to someone about to enter their 20s, what would it be? LK What has helped me the most is being open to opportunities that I didn’t expect or didn’t think I would want. Learn to say yes – to game nights with people you don’t know very well, to that after-work event with your co-workers. When you’re out of school, friends don’t just appear at your front door, so you have to find them wherever you can. HS What are your goals for your next decade? LK Professionally, I’d like to be constantly learning. After seven years of schooling, it now falls on me to keep my education up and stay relevant as a therapist; I always want to do my very best for my patients. As a personal goal, I want to continue learning about myself – how I can be a better friend, sister, daughter. Relationships can change so much throughout your 20s, but I’m hoping to become more deeply rooted in my relationships in the next decade. HS

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LOOK WELL

The Trailblazers of Fashion LOCAL BOUTIQUES’ BEST JACKETS & BLAZERS FOR THE NEW YEAR

From tailored tweeds to oversized and effortless, lightweight jackets and blazers are a hallmark of any professional’s wardrobe. They can elevate your favorite pair of skinny jeans or lend some juxtaposition to fancier ensembles. Beyond their versatility, a well-fitted jacket screams sophistication and is sure to give you an instant confidence boost. If your 2021 wardrobe is missing this undisputed essential, check out these stylish selections from local boutiques.

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“This NIC+ZOE safari jacket is an eye-catching twist on an old classic. The added style and neutral color make this the perfect jacket to dress up or dress down. It works with anything!” Ani Yacoubian, Yacoubian Tailors www.yacoubians.com

“Veronica Beard is one of our hottest-selling blazers right now. They use unique color combinations and fabrics and have the option to add one of their dickeys to create a variety of looks.” Terri Holley, Embellish www.embellishcollection.com

“This single-breasted blazer from Scotch & Soda comes with matching trousers and is guaranteed to take your look up a level. The striking jacquard floral pattern makes for a fun ensemble perfect for day or night.” HS Silvina Peralta-Ramos, Antibes www.antibesclothing.com

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LOOK WELL

Serums for Sunny Skin W

ith the days cold and short, you may be looking to add a little light to your skincare routine. Indulge in these vitamin C-packed serums, which boast an array of anti-

aging properties and leave skin noticeably brighter. These cult classics are sure to turn you into a glow-getter ready to handle whatever the winter season may throw your way!

SUNDAY RILEY’S C.E.O. 15% VITAMIN C BRIGHTENING SERUM This product by Sunday Riley, which gets its power from an elevated dose of vitamin C, is designed to ward off discolorations, dark spots, and dullness. The hydrating antioxidant formula leaves skin looking plump and firm, and phytosterols help to reduce skin’s sensitivity. With no sulfates, parabens, gluten, soy, fragrance, or phthalates, this serum has everything it needs and nothing it doesn’t.

OLE HENRIKSEN TRUTH SERUM Like a multivitamin for your skin, Ole Henriksen’s Truth Serum was among the first to lean on vitamin C for its antiaging and brightening properties. This fast-absorbing, oil-free formula is enriched with orange and green tea extracts for an energizing aroma and texture. Antioxidants promote collagen growth, and the product delivers an added dose of hydration.

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DR. DENNIS GROSS SKINCARE’S C+ COLLAGEN BRIGHTEN & FIRM VITAMIN C SERUM Vitamin C meets a proprietary energy complex in this serum that does everything from brightening skin to building collagen. The 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid used in Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare’s formula penetrates deep into the skin to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, all while being vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free. HS

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C O M I N G F E B R U A R Y 2 0 21

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Established in Chattanooga. Family Owned & Operated for 27 Years.

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TACKLING THIRST

LOOK WELL

How to Know When Your Skin Is Dehydrated & What to Do About It BY CHRISTINA CAN NON

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o achieve beautiful-looking skin, hydration is key. Many people tend to think of dry or dehydrated skin as one and the same, but that’s not the case. Dry skin is the result of fewer oil-producing glands on the face and body, and it’s a skin condition generally found in individuals who produce less sebum than others. Dehydrated skin, however, is signified by lack of water and is more often caused by external factors such as weather, caffeine consumption, and diet. While dry skin tends to be rough and flaky, dehydrated skin tends to look dull, feel tight, and show accelerated signs of aging such as dreaded fine lines and wrinkles. So, what’s one to do if their skin is wanting water? One of the best courses of action is to build exfoliating into your routine. In general, exfoliating once a week is enough to remove dead skin buildup, which makes moisturizers more difficult to absorb. Some individuals may need to exfoliate more frequently, but this is a great first step in getting the maximum benefit out of your lotion. Another tip for those struggling with dehydrated skin is to use serums. Professionals recommend applying a serum before any moisturizer and looking for products that contain hyaluronic acid. While skin naturally produces some hyaluronic acid, those with dehydrated skin could benefit from an added dose. Some products even contain hyaluronic acid stimulators such as avocado peptides, which help your skin’s ability to produce its own acid. Other beneficial ingredients to keep an eye out for are glycerin or aloe vera.

After applying a serum, it’s time for a moisturizer, and experts say don’t be afraid to go heavy. Especially in the winter months when homes are full of dry, heated air and humidity is low, your skin loses moisture while you sleep. Applying a thicker moisturizer just before bed – bonus points if it’s oil-free and doesn’t block your pores – can help combat this moisture loss. Too much direct sunlight and hot showers or baths can also result in dehydration, so be mindful of those factors as well. These topical tasks aren’t the only ways to help fight dehydration, though! Simply consuming more water through the fluids you drink and the foods you eat can work wonders, and adding a humidifier to your home or office can help your skin from losing moisture throughout the day. Regardless of the reason for your thirsty skin, the good news is that it’s a temporary state that can easily be fixed with several tweaks to your lifestyle and skincare routine. HS

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Beautifu lly You! Highly skilled and compassionate, there is a lot to know about the surgeons, nurse practitioners, nurse injectors, licensed aestheticians, and other professionals who have dedicated much of their lives to serving their clients. What follows are several of our areaâ€™s most accomplished cosmetic professionals who are serving their clients with exceptional quality services.

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Beautifu lly You!

Tailoring Treatments to Her Clients’ Needs

nyone who knows Kayla Savard knows that she starts her day with a glass of sweet tea in hand. “It fuels me for my day-to-day schedule, which is never the same,” Savard, a nurse practitioner at Cúrate MedAesthetics, shares. “Some days are more Botox-focused, some are more filler-focused, but they are always fun and exciting!” Savard thrives on using her extensive training and education to get the most beautiful results out of every injection, and her client philosophy is simple: listen, validate, and remedy. “The world of aesthetic services can be daunting, so one of my priorities is to help everyone feel relaxed and comfortable,” she says. “My promise is to deliver natural and beautiful results that we both love.”

Kayla Savard, N P-C C Ú R AT E M E D A E S T H E T I C S

What influenced you to pursue your career? I have always felt a great deal of compassion for others and

knew it was my calling to help people in some capacity. This drive to serve led to volunteer programs and mission trips throughout my life, and then eventually nursing as my career.

What is the most rewarding part of your profession? Helping my clients feel as beautiful as I see them. It is so

fulfilling to help someone express their inner confidence through outward expression.

What is your best advice for clients? You will never regret investing in yourself. It is never too early

or too late to achieve your goals!

How do you develop a plan for each client? First, I let the client share their “why” behind seeking my

services, and second, I address the client’s concerns by suggesting the best services that are not only comfortable and cost-effective, but also deliver the most amazing outcomes. From there, the client and I can collaborate on a plan not only for today, but for the life of their skin.

Do yourself a huge favor and go see Kayla at Cúrate! I was nervous about having my lips done, and she made me feel so relaxed and put my mind at ease. She has a super gentle touch, and the process was absolutely painless!” - L. ELLIS

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What’s the key to making a great first impression? A great first impression is about being yourself – nothing

is more relatable! When clients come to receive treatments, they sometimes feel nervous or overwhelmed. I love to set them at ease through open and honest communication and validating their feelings.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

ABOUT KAYLA

MY CREDENTIALS Master’s Degree: South College – Nashville, TN Recognitions: Magna Cum Laude, South College

M Y S P E C I A LT I E S Medical Aesthetics Facial Anatomy

CONNECT 423.661.3244 Cúrate MedAesthetics Cambridge Square 9447 Bradmore Lane, Suite 201 Ooltewah, TN 37363 For a full list of services offered: curatethelife.com

Beautifu lly You!

Taking a Goal-Oriented Approach

f there’s one piece of advice Mary Mitchell would give her clients, it’s to wear sunscreen – every single day. A licensed aesthetician, Mitchell has spent over six years in the field of aesthetics. In addition to her work performing facial resurfacing and assisting in the Plastic Surgery Group’s OR, Mitchell’s day-to-day is filled with client consultations. “My love of people is part of what led me to this career, so consultations are one of my favorite parts of my day,” Mitchell shares. “I ask specific questions that pertain to my clients’ lifestyle, skin type, genetics, and overall goals, such as treating acne or reversing the effects of sun exposure. I think it’s important to truly listen so that my clients will love their results.”

Mary Mitchell REFINE AESTHETIC STUDIO AT T H E P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y G R O U P

What is the most rewarding part of your profession? Obviously, excellent results and happy clients. I also love the

field of aesthetics because it’s always evolving, so there is always much to learn!

What would you consider to be your main strengths? Positivity in the treatment room, client education, and

reinforcing each person’s natural-found beauty.

How do you develop a plan for each client? I develop each client’s plan specifically to tailor to their

unique concerns. I find that it is important to let each client educate me on what changes they want to see in their own skin. I then will give options of how we can accomplish their goals.

What is one of your happiest professional moments? I find my happiest professional moment in my career thus

far has been the opportunity to work alongside some of the finest board-certified plastic surgeons. I love my job and the relationships that come with it.

Mary is one-of-a-kind when it comes to her work in aesthetics. I searched high and low throughout the years, and no one has accomplished what she has with my skin. Not only does my skin look better, but it feels better too!” - S. SHRUM

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What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your clients? Trust. By creating a trustworthy relationship from the first

consultation, I have found that my clients are happier, more confident, and at ease knowing I have their best interest in mind.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

ABOUT MARY

MY CREDENTIALS Licensed Aesthetician: Chattanooga College â€“ Chattanooga, TN Certifications: InMode Laser Certification Cartessa Laser Certification

M Y S P E C I A LT I E S Total Skin Rejuvenation

CONNECT 423.541.6464 Refine Aesthetic Studio 901 Riverfront Parkway, Suite 206 Chattanooga, TN 37402 For a full list of services offered: refineaesthetic studio.com

Beautifu lly You!

Fostering

Stacey Pollom, FN P-C, MSN

Relationships for

PREMIER MEDIC AL AESTHETICS

Exceptional Results

tacey Pollom spent the last decade in the medical field as a nurse, working in emergency medicine, women’s health, and primary care. But two years ago, a great love for the arts led her to a new career path. “Painting, photography, and design had always served as my respites from the stresses of the emergency room,” Pollom remembers. “Now, working in medical aesthetics, I’ve found the perfect marriage of art and science. I’ve never been so fulfilled and satisfied.” Pollom feels equally blessed to have the opportunity to work with the team at Premier Medical Aesthetics. “They are truly a remarkable group of women with an immense dedication to providing quality services to our community,” she says.

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I love that I can provide procedures to individuals who are

incredibly hardworking and have sacrificed so much of their bodies and lives for the sake of their families or jobs. I get to provide a well-deserved self-care service that brings them satisfaction and renewed confidence.

What would you consider to be your main strengths? Viewing the client holistically and placing the client at ease

through a warm and calming demeanor.

What is your best advice for clients? My advice would be to do your homework and remain patient

when searching for an injector. Find someone who not only is highly qualified but also acknowledges what an immense privilege it is to have your trust and business.

4 I’ve been receiving injectable treatments for several years, and I have not felt near as safe or as heard as I did with Stacey. From the beginning of my appointment, I was made to feel comfortable and relaxed. Stacey was kind and knowledgeable, and I’m thrilled with my results and how conservative she was in her approach.” - S. OLDS

What is the most rewarding part of your profession?

How do you develop a plan for each client? By sitting down with the client and discussing comprehensively

the client’s specific desires, past medical history, anatomy, and budget.

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your clients? I whole-heartedly believe we are “fearfully and wonderfully made,”

and my goal is to never distort or change, but to implement conservative aesthetic procedures to create a natural and refreshed look.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

ABOUT STACEY

Master’s Degree: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Chattanooga, TN Certifications: Advanced Neuromodulators Dermal Fillers PRP Therapies Laser Modalities Skin Rejuvenation Treatments

Emergency Medicine Primary Care Women’s Health

423.498.5777 Premier Medical Aesthetics 300 Cherokee Boulevard, Suite 110 Chattanooga, TN 37405 For a full list of services offered: premiermedspachatt.com

Beautifu lly You!

Championing Confidence

ith 11 years in the aesthetics industry under her belt, nurse practitioner Lindsay Bright has learned what it takes to achieve the best results for her clients. “My ability to connect with my clients is one of my greatest strengths,” she explains. “That, coupled with my willingness to constantly adapt to an ever-changing industry, has made me successful in my role at Associates in Plastic Surgery.” Bright strives to give her clients a natural look and help them decide on what is best for them – whether that be injectables or surgery. “I love being able to help women, at any age, feel and look their best,” she says. “When a client is in my chair, it is all about them and their needs.”

Lindsay Bright

A SSO CI ATE S IN PL A STIC SUR GER Y

What does your day-to-day look like? I am the nurse practitioner for Dr. Chris Chase, and I assist him in

surgery and take care of clients throughout their perioperative needs. I also specialize in dermatology and aesthetics, mainly injectables.

What is the most rewarding part of your profession? Being able to help my clients reach their highest level of

confidence, whether it be through injectables or providing treatment with skin screenings. I also love getting to know my clients on a personal level and being able to understand them and where they are at this moment in their life.

What is your best advice for clients? You are never too old or too young to feel good about yourself.

I will meet you wherever you are in life and help you achieve the confidence you want.

What influenced you to pursue your career? My husband. I always knew I wanted to further my career, but my

husband really encouraged me and supported me to pursue my dreams. He actually signed me up for school, and I wouldn’t be here without him.

Lindsay is indescribably phenomenal at what she does! Her reputation precedes her for her skill and talent as a nurse practitioner and master injector. She not

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your clients? My primary goal is to help my clients look and feel their best at any

only transformed my face, but my life by

age or stage in life. I do whatever it takes to make sure my patients are

giving me my confidence back.”

satisfied.

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- B. WEEKS

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

ABOUT LINDSAY

MY CREDENTIALS Master’s Degree: Southern Adventist University – Collegedale, TN Certifications: American Academy of Facial Aesthetics, Injectable Training Recognitions: Master Injector

M Y S P E C I A LT I E S Medical Aesthetics Dermatology

CONNECT 423.624.0021 Associates in Plastic Surgery 3404 Navajo Drive Chattanooga, TN 37411 2350 N. Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37311 For a full list of services offered: aprs.md

Beautifu lly You!

Providing a

Jessica Archer

Healthy Foundation

PREMIER MEDIC AL AESTHETICS

o two workdays look the same for Jessica Archer, a licensed aesthetician – and that’s exactly how she likes it. Archer explains, “Every day is an exciting new schedule of various procedures. Each day changes with the various services I offer and the many wonderful clients I am honored to treat. I’ve found that there is something for every person, skin type, and personal goal.” She considers her happiest professional moment to be joining the team at Premier Medical Aesthetics, a career move she made two years ago. “I adore my clients and am extremely appreciative of their support,” Archer says. “I, along with the rest of the team, pride myself on patient care and making sure each person feels comfortable and safe in our office.”

What influenced you to pursue your career? I’ve always loved beauty treatments and products, even as a young

child. My obsession with this industry started when I noticed what a difference medical-grade care and treatments made with my own skin. The more I learned, the more I wanted to know.

What would you consider to be your main strengths? My strengths are my in-depth knowledge of the skin and common

disorders. I believe in the power of the skin to heal itself, while providing a healthy foundation of skincare treatments, product routines, and antiaging prevention.

How do you choose the right procedure for your clients? During the initial consultation, I assess their specific needs

and concerns. We discuss treatment options, pain control options, expectations, downtime, and recovery. I believe in being completely transparent and having open lines of communication with my clients.

What’s the key to making a great first impression? The key is welcoming each person as they walk in with positivity

and respecting the value of their time.

Jessica makes you feel like a million dollars. My skin has completely changed because of her. She uses a very

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your clients? At Premier, our main philosophy revolves around safety,

individualized approach to my skincare

satisfaction, and connection. These three basic principles are at the core

for results that last and last.” - C. WOLFE

of our human needs, and I carry them into every patient interaction.

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

ABOUT JESSICA

Licensed Aesthetician: Franklin Academy (now Brillare Beauty Institute) – Cleveland, TN Certifications: Microneedling Lasers Chemical Peels Dermaplaning Eyelash Extensions High-Frequency Devices Medical-Grade Skincare Consultant Recognitions: Top 3 Chattanooga “Best of the Best” 2019 2019 - Present Guest Instructor at Chattanooga College of Aesthetics

Skin Resurfacing Treatments Anti-Aging Treatments Eyelash Extensions

423.498.5777 Premier Medical Aesthetics 300 Cherokee Boulevard, Suite 110 Chattanooga, TN 37405 For a full list of services offered: premiermedspachatt.com

HER STORY Every woman has a story to tell, and no two stories are alike. Meet the women who have persevered through challenges and tribulations and come out the other side stronger than ever. These unique individuals have seen their fair share of adversity but continue to inspire those around them with the lessons they have learned and their love of life. Read on for four truly motivating stories by the women who experienced them firsthand. Photos taken on location at SideTrack

The middle of five kids, I was 4 years old, malnourished, and living in a tiny village in Pakistan when my biological mother found out about a mission near our home. Unable to provide for us, she dropped off her three youngest children in hopes of getting medical care and having us adopted in what I know was the most heart-wrenching decision of her life. We were adopted, but that family was not able to handle that many children. At the age of 15, they sent me to a boarding school across the country with no intention of ever bringing me home. Through my teenage years, I lived on my own in North Carolina, Utah, Colorado, and Missouri and ended up in Chattanooga, where I attended college. That time was challenging and caused depression and anxiety. In my third year of college, I got pregnant and was left alone to raise my daughter,

Photo by Emily Pérez Long

and weeks later, my home burned down – destroying everything. Shortly after I moved to Chattanooga, however, I met the Litchfields, and they welcomed me into their family. It was the first time I felt loved since leaving Pakistan, and in 2016, after learning my birth mother had passed away, they legally adopted me and made me an official part of their family. My daughter, now 22 and an engineering major, has grown into the most loving, smart, beautiful, and inspiring human I know. While this past year was difficult, I am grateful my family stayed healthy, and we got to celebrate the birth of my nephew. I was fortunate to continue in my role at the Chattanooga Tourism Co. and help our industry navigate 2020, and I worked to focus on gratitude and making self-love a priority. I spent more time outdoors and safely took

one of my dream solo road trips to summit three Colorado peaks, each exceeding 14,000 feet. Life is rarely easy, but I believe that we can change our circumstances and behaviors by seeking God’s help, working hard, and being intentional about everything we do. Overcoming obstacles makes our lives better, and by using our experiences, we can impact the lives of those around us. I want to continue to help build a strong community by volunteering with nonprofits and other organizations that focus on the homeless, single mothers, and those who have suffered loss from a fire. I want to encourage people to find their own exhilarating experiences, their “mountain,” and live a fulfilled and blessed life.

Candace Litchfield DOWNTOWN CHATTANOOGA

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HER STORY

I belong to a group that I never wanted to belong to, one that I never knew existed - the FTD family club. My husband has FTD (Frontal Temporal Dementia), and it is the most common form of dementia without a treatment or a cure for people under the age of 60. My husband lost his job in 2016 at the age of 44 when our two children were only 12 and 9. With no guide for this disease, I have had to make decisions on my own about when he would stop driving, when to take his credit card away, and when to move him into a long-term care facility. I wish now that we had talked more about those things so his wants and wishes could be truthfully carried out. Although it is incredibly difficult, I implore you to have those conversations. My husband was incredibly passionate about traveling. We have been to all 50 states and out of the country several times. I am thankful now that we did not say, “Someday we will make that trip.” He also was an incredibly smart person with an MBA and a master’s in actuarial science, and it has been difficult to watch my kids grow up and learn without their dad. I am blessed to have friends and family around me who care about me. They stressed to me that I needed to take care of myself because my family was counting on me. I took their advice and reached out to my doctor and a counselor, joined a support group, and made sure I exercised almost every day. This time of growth has shown me how important self-care is and that everyone should try their hardest to make time for themselves. A quote that has guided me in making decisions is from New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp. It says, “In moments when you wish you knew what you can’t know, there is rest to be found. There is One who knows. He loves you and rules what you don’t understand with your good in mind.”

Alison Smiley SIGNAL MOUNTAIN Photo by Rich Smith

SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM DESIGN • REPAIR • BRIDAL

7 Jewelers On-Site with Over 100 Years Combined Experience 423.875.2390

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5090 ADAMS ROAD IN HIXSON

HER STORY

When I think of all the good things God has given me, my parents are definitely at the top of the list. Through God’s grace, mercy, and kindness, my sister and I were blessed to have not one but two outstanding parents - a mom who taught us strength, wisdom, and resilience, and a father who taught us strong work ethics, respect, and to fear no one but God. In 2009, my life would forever be changed. My mother, my twin, and my best friend would leave this place we call earth to be with our Heavenly Father. My heart was broken, and it still is today. I loved her, but God loved her more and called her to be with Him. People would say I’m so sorry for your loss, which is very compelling at first. I did feel a great loss, and I was lost. I felt a massive part of me was missing. Then I started to realize all the great and beautiful things that my mother

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stood for and believed in - the values that were instilled in me. More importantly, I began to realize how I could continue her legacy and instill these same values in my daughters, my workplace, my family, and my community. My mother taught me to ignore ignorance. Those two powerful words were enough to bring an extreme amount of success to both my personal and professional life. Consequently, ignorance will always surround us, but we have the power to resist and stand in our faith. She also taught me to love and respect myself. I learned to always know my value and worth and to set high standards. But perhaps, the greatest gift my mother ever gave me was the gift of empowerment. She always let me know I had a voice and that I should use it not only for my benefit, but for the benefit of others.

Will what my mother instilled in me help someone to move past their hurt, pain, disappointment, or anger? I hope so. I hope that I can assist others and provide them the resources they need to get closer to God, love themselves, empower others, and run their own race. We all have different adversities, and life can’t be all about competition. We must pull together and pull each other up and forward so that when one of us wins, we all win. For many, 2020 brought a lot of heartache, more questions than answers, and financial burden. I challenge you in 2021 to be the light at the end of someone’s dark tunnel. Make an impact in someone’s life. Turn adversity into an opportunity.

Edkedsha (KeeKee) Mathis CHATTANOOGA

Photo by Emily Pérez Long

HER STORY

When I was a little girl in Sunday School, my teacher compared God to an engineer looking down on the system of railroad tracks he had built. From above, he could see the twists and turns, the roadblocks, and the straightaways, and most importantly, he could see where the train would end up. But while you are on that train, all you can see is the part of the journey right in front of you, and the bumps in the road feel like they will be the end of you. That is what it felt like to be sitting in a hospital room in 2011 when a nurse told us that our first baby likely had Down syndrome. All I could see were the struggles and the things that would set her apart as a baby and me as a mother. The family I had envisioned didn’t seem to be an option for us anymore. Our train had gone in a different direction, and in those first few months, the challenges overshadowed a lot of the joy. Now, as I look back, I can see when the joy started to creep through the cracks. When our first son came along, a brother to Lila, that joy only grew, and we knew we had even more love to give. But sitting in another doctor’s office, three years later, when our third baby was on the way, we found out he was also carrying an extra chromosome. I wondered if that love would be enough … if I would be enough. The moment that knocked me off-track the first time was here again. Were we sad? Not every mom would admit it, but yes. Were we overwhelmed? Absolutely. But we knew a secret. We knew that joy would outweigh the fear in time. Our kids are amazing, and they can also be amazingly challenging. But here’s what I’ve learned. Veering off the track you imagined your life would follow doesn’t mean you can’t end up in the kind of place you wished for when you started. And sometimes, the path you end up on is even more beautiful than the one you would have picked for yourself. HS

Latricia Milburn OOLTEWAH

Photo by Rich Smith

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Women Celebrating Women The word inspire is defined as the act of filling someone with the urge or ability to do something, and here in Chattanooga, we have no shortage of incredible women who motivate those around them day in and day out. Whether they intentionally set out to be a role model or random acts of kindness are simply in their DNA, these women are making the world a better place. Read on to learn more about the individuals who encourage others to be the best version of themselves told by those they inspired most. P HOTO GRAPH Y BY RI CH SMI TH

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inspired: Catherine Fore inspiration: Kathleen Greeson

“She provided supportive words and enthusiasm from one small business owner to another. For that, I will be forever grateful!”

As a small business owner, I encounter many inspiring women: creative, innovative, philanthropic, bright, and supportive of one another. Kathleen is one of these women. I met Kathleen about six years ago when she began taking portraits of our family. Her calm demeanor, kindness, and great laugh were a few of the first things I noticed about her. As our paths began to cross more frequently, I was able to get to know her work as an artist on a deeper level. In 2017, she traveled to Guatemala to photograph women and children who were recipients of scholarships from the BFB Foundation, a foundation created to support education for those less fortunate in that country. Kathleen gifted the profits of the sales of her photos to the foundation. Her philanthropy is inspiring. After years of owning my own business, it was (beyond) time to have professional photographs taken of my work. There was no doubt who I would call. Kathleen came through with gorgeous photos that made my work look far superior to the photos I’d previously been taking on my phone. But, it wasn’t just pretty photos that she provided to help propel my business. She provided supportive words and enthusiasm from one small business owner to another. For that, I will be forever grateful!

CATHERINE

KATHLEEN HealthScopeMag.com

INSPIRED

inspired: Robin Sturnes inspiration: Shenikia Sturnes

ROBIN

“Shenikia is such a loving and supportive person. Anything that I seek to accomplish, she pushes me and keeps me going.”

A woman who inspires me is my sister, Shenikia. She has always been my encourager and motivator throughout my life. I began to truly see how she inspires me in the early part of 2010, the year our mother was placed in hospice. Shenikia, along with my aunts and myself, took excellent care of our mother. Toward the end of our mother’s life, my sister was administering her pain medication. After our mother’s passing, my sister has been the one to hold our family together. However, her strength as a caretaker was not done there. About five years after our mom passed, our father and grandmother started having medical issues. At that time, Shenikia was in school obtaining her master’s degree. Through every hospital stay and doctor’s appointment, my sister was there while continuing to take classes at night. Shenikia is such a loving and supportive person. Anything that I seek to accomplish, she pushes me and keeps me going. She has our mother’s heart, and I have always looked up to her. I am blessed to do this thing called life with Shenikia!

SHENIKIA

INSPIRED

inspired: Beth Bragg Henon inspiration: Mari VanderWoude MARI One of the first women I met in Chattanooga gave me a gift we all long for: the feeling of being known. Her beautiful smile and intentional questions communicated an immediate sense of familiarity and value. This is the same gift Mari VanderWoude has given to more than 20,000 middle school, high school, and college students over the past 18 years. They call her “The Glue” in her behind-thescenes role as office administrator for Young Life Chattanooga, but Mari’s work has extended far beyond her title’s borders into teacher, counselor, pastor, and second Mom. Most inspiring is that, with thousands of students from 15 schools coming in and out of her life (and through her always-open office door), she still has the vision to hone in on the “one” – the one who needs a friend, the one hungry for a home-cooked meal, or the one from a broken home who needs to experience the unwavering love of a faithful Father. That’s what keeps students coming back to see her well into their careers and often with their young children in tow. One of my favorite Scriptures is about a lonely woman who describes God as “the One who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). Mari has helped generations of young people feel seen and valued. In that way – and in so many others – she definitely has her Father’s eyes. HS

“Mari has helped generations of young people feel seen and valued.”

BETH

FEEL WELL

All Work & No Play How to Stop Working So Much BY MA RY BE TH WAL L AC E

Americans are working more hours than ever. In fact, studies have shown that the United States is the most overworked developed nation in the world. Putting in over-time has become the rule rather than the exception, and now, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have found themselves working from home and having universal connectivity – making it much more difficult to disconnect from their jobs. “Having the ability to work from any place means that we are pushed to work at any time,” says Elizabeth Gates, a licensed psychotherapist at River City Counseling in Hixson. “There is now an expectation that we must overwork to meet basic demands.” In a society where “going the extra mile” is glorified, how are we to take a step back and stop working so much? Here, Gates delves into the dangers of overworking and offers her suggestions for creating a more balanced life.

ELIZABETH GATES, LPC/MHSP, MAC LICENSED PSYCHOTHERAPIST, RIVER CITY COUNSELING

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First, it’s important to recognize what overworking is. According to Gates, “Overworking is often defined as working too long or too hard, or working to the point of exhaustion. It can mean that we are working beyond our capacity, and this often becomes a longterm, habitual pattern.” For most, overworking looks like putting in extra hours each week, taking on additional projects, or bearing the brunt of the workload, which can lead to feelings of resentment and hopelessness. Logging in after-hours or answering emails 24/7 may seem like a good idea, but over time, these practices can take a serious toll on your physical and mental health. Overworking has been directly linked to death and disability, and on a daily level, it can result in physical complications like fatigue, headaches, stomach upset, and chest pain. Overworking also increases incidences of anxiety and depression. “Part of the difficulty with all of this is that these effects often happen over time, and it can be hard to identify the connection between all these different symptoms and overworking,” Gates says. “So, we are quick to write these symptoms off as, ‘Oh, I’m just having a bad week,’ when in reality it could be our brain and body trying to tell us that we need to slow down and refocus on taking care of ourselves.” Fortunately, overworking is both preventable and treatable, and there are many approaches you can take to avoid it.

“We all deserve to find meaning and purpose outside of whatever job we happen to have at the moment and to make work a less central aspect of our identity. We can have our health without a career, but we cannot have a career without our health.”

ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES. “Not only is it okay, but it is imperative to set limits on our work time, both with others and with ourselves,” Gates advises. Start by having conversations with both family members and co-workers about respecting your work hours and non-work time. Avoid looking at emails during non-work time unless it’s for an already-agreedupon task, and learn to say “no” when your workload becomes unmanageable. For those working remotely, make sure that your in-home work area is free of distractions and as separate as possible from your living spaces. It’s also a good practice to create a routine, including a change of scenery – whether a short drive or walk around the block – when the workday is done to help you transition back to home life.

PRIORITIZE. One of the best ways to decrease your to-do list is taking an honest look at what needs to get done. For example, is it necessary that you complete a task every single day, or can it be compressed to a weekly occurrence? What can you take off your list entirely or delegate to someone else? Gates explains, “Something I ask my clients to consider is whether a problem really belongs to them. Those who overwork often take on more responsibility than they need to, so we work on learning how and when to delegate appropriately and confidently.” PRACTICE SELF-CARE. “Self-care is a term that is often misunderstood,” Gates says. “Sometimes it does mean to take a hot bath or get a massage, but in reality, self-care means doing all the things we

need to do to stay healthy. This includes going to doctor appointments, finishing the laundry, and grocery shopping. It includes getting adequate amounts of sleep, maintaining healthy nutrition, and remaining physically active.” Whatever activities you decide to take part in outside of work, they should become just as much a priority as your job is. Put them on your schedule, communicate their importance to your loved ones, and stick with it, just as you would a mandatory work meeting. If you’re feeling overworked and overwhelmed, remember that help is available! Reaching out to a licensed professional – the earlier, the better – can help you make changes and find a more healthy work-life balance. HS

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FEEL WELL

Maintaining Friendships During a Pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has presented many challenges to not only our physical and mental well-being, but also our relationships. With in-person gatherings put on hold, women of all ages have experienced a disconnect with even their closest friendships, which can lead to feelings of loneliness. However, it is possible to nurture friendships while staying six feet apart, and these local ladies have cracked the code. Read on for their thoughts and advice on being a friend during a pandemic.

“We are very blessed to have the modern technology we have today, especially during this pandemic. But taking time to ‘intentionally’ utilize it properly can be challenging. Regular phone calls to family and friends have been very important, especially since our parents are aging. And the video calls with them is something we will cherish forever! During some of those calls, we have been able to complete an online Bible study together. A wise elderly friend told me that she has recently written cards to more than 100 people. She says that every time someone comes to mind, she prays for them and then sends them a card to let them know they are being prayed for and thought about. What an example of intentionality!” ERIKA HOGANS, Ooltewah

“The last year has been challenging having to adjust to a smaller physical circle of family and friends. I have stayed connected to my larger group of friends through many group texts and group chats, outdoor park gatherings and distanced yard parties, and virtual gatherings. We have shared struggles with stress at work and working from home, as well as grief over the loss of our normal pattern of life. We have thought of new ways to celebrate milestones, left care packages on doorsteps, and are happily making plans for being physically present together again once it is safer. Sharing the frustration and knowing others struggle too has been helpful for me; we can support and care about each other through this time in history by being intentional.” MELISSA HARRINGTON WHITE, North Chattanooga

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“I’m not sure where I would be without my friends over the last year. Having someone to vent, cry, and laugh with has kept me sane. Just as important as friends whom I have a lot in common with, the friends who don’t think like me have been vital during the pandemic. I think too often we end up in groups where everyone agrees, and we’re left in an echo chamber. Friends who don’t share my faith, race, background, or political beliefs have kept my eyes open to what’s happening around us but maybe not directly to me. Friends should definitely support us and be a safe haven – but they should also challenge us to be open, be listening, and be better.” HS TERRAN ANDERSON, Chattanooga

Mary Walker’s 20-Minute HomeWERK A Guided, At-Home Workout P H OTOGRAPHY BY RICH SMITH

“This total-body HIIT workout combines SPENGA’s three essential elements: cardio, strength, and flexibility. You will torch calories, increase your heart rate, boost your metabolism, and sculpt lean muscles! This sequence can be done with limited space and no equipment. Want to make it more challenging? Pick up a dumbbell, or any moderately heavy household item, such as a gallon of water. Need to modify? Lose the jumps, and do whatever your body needs.” Mary Walker, General Manager, SPENGA Chattanooga

Complete each exercise for 30 seconds, followed by a 30-second rest period. Repeat four times. Remember to stretch and warm up your muscles and joints prior to beginning your workout!

Speed Skater Start standing, then push off powerfully, jumping sideways to your right. Cross your left leg behind your body, keeping hips forward. Keep your chest slightly up, facing forward, with your core engaged. Reach your left arm down, tapping the floor. Repeat side-to-side. 98

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Sumo Squat Jumps Stand with your feet greater than hipwidth apart, toes turned out. Lower to a sumo squat with knees behind toes and on top of the ankles. Keep your core squeezed in, maintaining shoulders stacked over your hips. Squat as low as your body allows, then jump up powerfully. Land delicately, rolling through the toes to the heels.

High to Low Plank Begin in a high plank with your shoulders stacked over your wrists, feet hip-width apart. Keep your core tight, careful not to arch your back. With your head, neck, and spine in line, lower yourself down to your forearms, one side at a time, then push back up to high plank. Continue to repeat, picking up the pace as your body allows.

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LIVE WELL

Boat Pose with Side Twist Begin in a seated position and find balance. Pull your belly button into your spine and lift your knees toward your chest. Keep them slightly bent or fully extended, depending on your comfort level (keep your heels on the ground to assist with balance). Using your core, twist continuously, pulling your elbows to the right and left.

Split Squat Jumps Sink into a split squat position with both knees at 90 degrees, shoulders over hips, and abs engaged. Jump up explosively, with legs meeting and switching mid-air, alternating to the opposite leg in front. Repeat as swiftly as your body allows while maintaining proper form. HS

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Choose Chattanooga

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCE FOR THE CHATTANOOGA AREA

Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® Business • Banking • Real Estate • Healthcare • Family Fun • Current Events • Dining & So Much More!

Visit ChooseChatt.com for More Information!

LIVE WELL

Eat Well for Less 10 TIPS FOR EATING HEALTHY ON A BUDGET BY MARY BE TH WALLACE

Contrary to popular belief, a healthy diet doesn’t have to be expensive. With a smarter shopping strategy and the right tools, you can dine on delicious, nutritious dishes without breaking the bank. Here’s how.

CREATE A MEAL PLAN. Take the guesswork out of mealtime with a weekly plan. When done right, meal planning ensures you’ll have healthy, budget-friendly meals on the table every night, even with a busy schedule! Build your meals around what you already have in your pantry or freezer, supplementing with what’s on sale at the grocery store.

STICK TO YOUR GROCERY LIST. A box of cereal here, a chocolate bar there … before you know it, you’re checking out the entirety of aisle four! Avoiding impulse buys can be a challenge, but if you have a plan in place, you’ll be less likely to overspend. Set yourself up for success by grocery shopping on a full stomach, and instead of roaming the aisles, only walk to the areas where there’s an item on your list.

CHECK UNIT PRICES. For packaged items like nut butters, air-popped popcorn, and energy bars, make a practice of checking the unit price to determine which brand is the best value. Most grocery stores will post the unit price along with the store’s price; simply find the small stickers along the shelves. You’ll notice that store brands often cost less than their name-brand counterparts – and they aren’t that different when it comes to quality and ingredients.

SHOP THE SALES. This means using coupons, apps, and sales ads for the grocery stores you frequent. Always scour your store’s sales ad for fresh produce; if apples are on sale, and blueberries aren’t, then you’ll be adding apple slices to your oatmeal this week!

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RETHINK YOUR PROTEIN. Protein-packed foods like eggs, beans and lentils, peanut butter, and cottage cheese will keep you satisfied at a fraction of the cost of meat. When you do buy meat, look for the cheaper cuts like bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks, ground turkey, and bone-in pork chops.

BUY FROZEN. Your freezer is one of your best budget-friendly tools. Stock it with a variety of frozen fruits and vegetables – from broccoli and cauliflower to mango and peaches – and you’ll always have nutritious produce on hand. Not only will you eat more fruits and veggies, but you’ll also avoid throwing away fresh produce that’s past its prime.

BUY CANNED FOOD TOO! Canned foods often get a bad rap, but there’s no need to fear this economical option. Canned salmon and sardines are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids; just be sure to look for wild-caught, sustainably harvested fish. Other healthy canned items include beans, diced or whole tomatoes, and vegetable broth.

EAT YOUR LEFTOVERS. They may be far from glamorous, but it’s time to embrace leftovers. Cooking larger meals like soups, casseroles, and pasta saves you time and money, and you’ll have plenty left over for lunches throughout the week. With fully cooked meals at the ready, you’ll be less likely to order out when mid-day hunger strikes.

KNOW WHEN TO BUY ORGANIC. We’ve been conditioned to believe that organic is always the best choice, but that’s not actually the case. As a general rule, buy organic fruits and vegetables if you’ll eat the skin, like apples, strawberries, and bell peppers. On the other hand, you can skip organic foods that you peel – like bananas and avocados – as they have low levels of detectable pesticides.

DITCH EXPENSIVE DRINKS. This one’s easy. Purchasing beverages like fruit juices, soda, and sports drinks weekly can really add up, but these products do little to promote satiety. Stick to water, and you’re sure to notice a dip in your grocery bill. And if you have to have your daily juice, try diluting it with water. You’ll save money and cut out sugar at the same time! HS

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When Life Gives You Lemons … make lemonade, right? While a cold glass of lemonade is undeniably satisfying, lemons can be incorporated into just about any dish, from curries and chutneys to soups, salads, sheet pan meals, and so much more. In fact, this citrus fruit is a home cook’s secret weapon – you can always count on lemons to amp up the flavor, as well as the nutrition, of your culinary creations. Lemons are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, and consuming them regularly could lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and kidney stones. This is one simple staple that needs to be added to your rotation, stat.

Squeeze the day with these delicious lemon recipes from Chattanooga locals! Photography by Rich Smith

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Events with Taste’s Lemon Rosemary Lamb with Fregola BY MICHELLE WELLS, OWNER & CHEF | SERVES 4 Ingredients

Directions

For the lemon rosemary lamb: Zest and juice of 2 large lemons 2 shallots, thinly sliced 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped 1 Tbsp. fresh oregano, chopped 4 garlic cloves, chopped Pinch of crushed red pepper Salt and pepper, to taste 2 lamb chops (loin or rib)

For the lemon rosemary lamb: 1. Mix marinade ingredients together and pour over lamb in a large bowl. Marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes – preferably 1 hour. 2. Grill 3 minutes per side for medium rare chops.

For the fregola: 1 cup fregola 2 yellow onions, chopped 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 Tbsp. butter Chicken broth, as needed 8 oz. sun-dried tomatoes (dried or jar) 2 Tbsp. lemon zest 1/2 bunch fresh Italian parsley, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste

For the fregola: 1. Cook fregola in 6-8 cups of salted water for 15-18 minutes or until al dente. Drain. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of cooking liquid. 2. In a large pan, caramelize onions in 1 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 Tbsp. butter for approximately 15-20 minutes on low heat, or until they begin to turn golden brown. Add chicken broth if needed to keep onions from getting too dark. 3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cooked fregola and stir to coat pasta. Add in lemon zest, 2 Tbsp. of olive oil, and fresh parsley, stirring to coat. Gradually add in reserved cooking liquid until texture resembles a creamy risotto. Add salt and pepper to taste. 4. Serve warm with grilled lamb chops.

Photo Courtesy of Maycreate

Did you know? Not only does lemon make everything taste better, it’s also a fantastic cleaning agent. Lemon juice can get rid of bad odors and grease, help remove tough stains, and disinfect surfaces.

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Claire Ellison’s Pasta al Limone SERVES 2-4 Ingredients

1 box gluten-free linguine (Banza preferred) 3 Tbsp. salted butter (can sub with ghee or olive oil) Zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 tsp. salt 1 cup half & half Fresh parsley, roughly chopped for garnish Directions

1. Boil and salt your pasta water. Add linguine and cook until al dente. Reserve a bit of your pasta water before straining. 2. In a large pan, melt butter on medium heat. Once melted, add lemon zest (reserving some for garnish), lemon juice, and salt. Be careful that the butter doesn’t brown! Add half & half and let simmer on medium-low for 3-5 minutes. Add pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to the pan and coat pasta with cream sauce. 3. Plate and garnish with extra lemon zest and parsley. Buon appetito! Chattanooga’s Claire Ellison loves to put a healthy spin on classic recipes, like this luxurious Pasta al Limone. She says, “It is so easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, so add this to your spread when you can host post-pandemic. It’s a great wintertime comfort food without being dark and heavy, and the bright lemon at the center of the recipe is unexpected and really makes me smile when I eat it!” 106

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for Physical

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