Inspire Health 45 NA

INSPIRE

Empowering Natural Living

TEEN VAPING TOP 5 FOODS FOR HEART HEALTH

SUGAR

101 HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN

SYRUP & HEART DISEASE

t n a l p s n a Tr s e m a G 1

contents issue 45

BRING THE LOVE

14

Transplant Games

19

3 SUPER FOOD Green Tea

TOP 5 FOODS FOR

HEART HEALTH

5 NATURAL BEAUTY

Restore Thinning Hair With Biotin

6 EXERCISE

10

Refreshed Heart Health Easy Cardio Activating Exercises

8 HEALTHY BODY

Help Your Joints with Vitamin D

9 RECIPE

Cheesy Cheddar Cauliflower Rice

12 RECIPE

Sausage and Rice Skillet

13 WELLNESS

Sugar 101-High Fructose Corn Syrup Increases Heart Disease Risk

17 PET

A Pet to Love-Having a Pet Helps You to Live Longer

18 MIGHTY KIDS Teen Vaping

21 HEALTHY MIND 5 Ways You May be Sabotaging Your Resolutions

22 HEALTHY DESTINATIONS

Best Wellness Retreats for Couples

24 FASHION

Colorful this Winter

26 RECIPE

Paleo Strawberry Shortcake

27 LONGEVITY

5 Top Foods for a Healthy Ticker

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super food

Green tea

By Kristy Podruchny

Green tea has been an important part of Chinese and Japanese culture for a few thousand years and is highly coveted for its health benefits.

Western medicine started investigating these benefits and is exploring green tea to see what it does to help human health.

W

ondering what makes green tea a super food? Green tea is a super food because of its high levels of antioxidants.

Catechins are polyphenols (a type of antioxidant) present in green tea that are responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Caffeine also plays an important role in the health benefits found in green tea.

Get ready for it—this is a mouthful.

Green tea contains a catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) that has been studied for its antiinflammatory properties. A study conducted by the University of Shizuoka has shown that green tea and EGCG suppress inflammatory reactions in our bodies.

Let’s not forget the magic green tea provides for heart health. A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry shows that EGCG’s also help break down the plaque that can form in arteries. As you can imagine, our blood needs to circulate efficiently and plaques can lead to coronary heart disease. Combined with green tea’s LDL cholesterol and triglyceride lowering benefits, this tea has proven itself to be an ally to your heart.

Though its caffeine content is minimal, be mindful about how much you consume—especially if you know you’re sensitive to caffeine. Conflicting

studies have the scientific community rethinking its stance on caffeine. A 2008 study published in the Journal of Psychological Anthropology showed that caffeine and an amino acid called l-theanine, present in green tea, improve cognition and reduce anxiety.

Coffee shops have made matcha a household name. Matcha is made from ground up green tea leaves and is known for its beautiful bright green color. It’s often made into lattes because the taste is less bitter than other types of green tea. Matcha contains high levels of chlorophyll, which helps transport oxygen and has been studied for its potential anticancer effects.

There are many ways to enjoy this super food. Sip a cup of hot tea, enjoy it iced, try it in ice cream and lattes.

When you buy powdered tea like

Green tea and EGCG suppress ons inflammatory reacti in our bodies. matcha, you can sprinkle green tea and all of its benefits into any food including salad dressings and baked goods. Tea connoisseurs know there’s a difference in taste and texture depending on how the leaves were harvested, where they were grown and how it’s ground.

Take care not to over cook your green tea—water temperature and steep time makes a difference in whether or not the polyphenols are available to do their job in your body!

editor’s letter

Cheers

for a New Year and another chance for us to get it right.

Let’s not dwell on the past, instead let’s look toward our future with passion, understanding and humility. January is a time for wiping the slate clean. Not only for making resolutions, but reinventing the way we make resolutions. Dr. Bradley Nelson introduces five ways to help us keep our resolutions without sabotaging our goals.

We all know what works best for us. Going back to the basics of what we know works is the first step in achieving our goals. Have you tried a diet and lost 15 or 20 pounds, only to gain it back, plus a few extra? I hear this all the time. It happens to me too.

One thing I love about meeting our inspirational covers is hearing their stories of determination and change. I have learned a lot about myself as I’ve published Inspire Health Magazine. One thing is, there’s nothing constant but change. Every diet is not made for every person. What works for me may cause distress in someone else.

That’s why you will see different ideas and different points of view from many diets and food in our magazine. Coming from an educational publishing background, we felt like a magazine that doesn’t teach you anything new is just fire starter.

We want to hear from you. We want your feedback. We want to know what you want to know about and what issues you are having so we can research them and offer help. That’s what we are all about.

We are always looking for inspiring topics and empowering people to write about.

I hope you enjoy reading and learning from this issue. You Are Stronger Than You Think.

Suzanne Fox

M A G A Z I N E executive publishers Hal G. Fox & Suzanne Polk Fox

managing editor Suzanne Polk Fox

copy editor Chad Ruiz

contributing writers Amber Marie Arevalos Patricia F. Danflous Ann Jarema Shirin Mehdi Crissie Mergogey Juliane Morris Dr. Bradley Nelson Meg Pearson Kristy Podruchny

art design

Tra Pham Claire Thomas Suzanne Polk Fox production

Claire Thomas Suzanne Polk Fox Contact Suzanne Fox at editor@inspirehealthmag.com The information contained in Inspire Health is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Inspire Health for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Inspire Health, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Inspire Health and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Inspire Health. Readers should not use the information in Inspire Health for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem. V7

© 2020 Fox Printing & Creative Publishing, LLC, New Orleans, LA All rights reserved Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services (igofox.com)

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natural beauty

Biotin

RESTORE THINNING HAIR

with

Kristy Podruchny

Thinning hair doesn’t have to be the norm for you. Hair “thinning” is actually hair loss. It’s important to know why your hair is falling out and what you can do to address the problem, but boosting your diet by adding foods with biotin, iodine, iron and selenium can help, too. Before you get overwhelmed with all of the supplements available out there, consider adding foods to your diet that will supply you with what you need to grow and keep more hair on your head instead of on your brush.

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here are several reasons why you might be losing hair. The list includes chronic stress, over styling/coloring, thyroid issues, nutritional deficiencies, genetic alopecia and more. Taking a few natural steps to help your body and scalp can mean the difference between a full head of hair and a shower drain full of hair.

Biotin is a B vitamin that is needed for healthy skin and hair. People with biotin deficiencies will lose hair and notice dry, scaly skin. Filling your plate with biotin-rich foods is the best way to supplement yourself to help

lating Stimu with calp your s sage a mas row air g helps h asing re by inc to hair w o fl blood s. i l fol cle

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INSPIRE HEALTH

prevent or treat a biotin deficiency. Chicken liver tops the “foods with the most biotin” charts—though any liver will supply abundant biotin.Vegan or vegetarian?

Not to worry.You can also find biotin in avocados and egg yolks. Luckily, biotin is stable, meaning you can cook away without the fear of losing any biotin in the process. Biotin supplements are widely available as well, but why not add some biotin to your plate?

If your thyroid needs a little help, look to selenium and iodine—these two are friends to the thyroid gland and are essential to its functions. Foods rich in

selenium include biotin-rich liver and eggs as well as brazil nuts, sardines, shrimp and tuna. We’re diving right back into the sea for iodine.

Seaweed supplies the highest levels of iodine we can consume, right next to cod and some yogurts. Many foods are enriched with iodine, too.

Iron deficiency can lead to hair thinning.

Iron supplements can be tough on your digestive system and it’s easy to incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet.

Legumes, dark leafy greens, and spirulina will carry iron safely through your GI tract. Make a salad, throw plenty of colorful veggies in it and top it off with some shrimp or black beans. A healthy diet for thicker hair.

After you’ve had your fill of healthy meals, try having a mini spa day at home with a luxurious scalp massage.

Stimulating your scalp with a massage helps hair grow by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. Use this time to get creative and relax. Light some candles, use fragrant oils for your massage and sip a cup of chamomile tea. Stress management and relaxation exercises will help your hair grow by allowing your “rest and digest” response do some regenerative work.

Make self-care a priority and you’ll likely notice less hairs abandoning your head.

5

exercise

REFRESHED HEART HEALTH

EASY CARDIO ACTIVATING EXERCISES

IT SEEMS A GOOD TIME OF YEAR TO ENCOURAGE US ALL THAT LOVING OUR HEARTS OVER THE COURSE OF OUR LIFETIMES HELPS US LIVE LONGER AND BETTER AS WE STAY IN SHAPE OR IMPROVE THE SHAPE WE’RE IN! LET’S LOOK AT SOME RELATIVELY GENTLE CARDIO-ACTIVATING EXERCISES THAT YOU CAN DO AT HOME, WHEN TRAVELING OR AT THE GYM. ADDING THESE LOWER IMPACT AND EASY CARDIO EXERCISES MAY BE MUCH MORE EFFECTIVE THAN YOU THINK, AND YOU CAN WORK YOUR WAY UP INCREMENTALLY OVER TIME! CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE YOU BEGIN A SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT SORT OF EXERCISE, AND WARM UP YOUR MUSCLES BEFORE YOU START.

By Juliane Morris

MARCHING SLIDE  With your core engaged, lift one knee to a comfortable height while raising the right-angled hand on the opposite side.  In a smooth motion, transition from the position to bring the lifted knee to the side of the body, placing the foot on the ground in a slight bend and side lunge.  Return to standing position.  Repeat steps 1, 2, and 3 with the other leg and arm. (Try 6-10 reps.)

Marchin g Slide

6

HIP SWISH RHYTHM

 With one foot in front of the

other, and elbows bent, swing arms back and forth, frontward and backward while swinging hips side to side for 30-90 seconds. Feet and legs do not change position.  Alternate feet positions, and repeat step 1 for 30-90 seconds. Add weights as desired.

Hip Swish Rhythm

GENTLE SKIPPIN’ TO YOUR LOU  With a preferably imaginary jump rope and with your core engaged, alternate between the balls of your feet in rhythmic motion, and circling hands with elbows around waist height, pretend like you’re skipping rope.  Try for one minute, and increase time as comfortable.

Gentle Skippin’ to Your Lou

SLOW-TOWN DROP AND RISE  On your back on the floor and with your core engaged, and keeping lower back pressed into the floor, inhale over 4-5 seconds, slowly lifting both straightened legs perpendicular to the ground.  Exhale over 5-7 seconds, slowly lowering legs back to floor.  Repeat steps 1 and 2. (Try 6-10 reps.) You can place an exercise ball or throw pillow between your feet for added control.

Slow-Town Drop and Rise

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healthy body

HELP YOUR JOINTS WITH

By Ann Jarema WHEN NATURAL LIGHT COMES INTO CONTACT WITH OUR SKIN, IT KICK STARTS THE BODY’S NATURAL PRODUCTION OF VITAMIN D. AND WHY DOES THAT MATTER?

V

itamin D is an essential ingredient to our health.

It protects us from inflammation, lowers our blood pressure, helps keep our muscles strong, improves the function of our brain, and could protect against cancer.

If you’re not getting enough vitamin D, you are not alone. Over half of the world’s population does not get enough sun. As a result of this, many of us are actually deficient in the vitamin.

The best way to increase your vitamin D, if exposure to the sun isn’t an option, is through a few particular foods. Salmon, herring and sardines, cod

liver oil, tuna, oysters, shrimp, egg yolks, and mushrooms all contain healthy amounts of vitamin D. Of these options, the oily fish, fish liver oil, and egg yolks are your best option as they contain vitamin D3 which is more powerful than vitamin D2 (which you find in other sources including fortified food items such as milk and orange juice).

If you aren’t a fish, egg, or mushroom lover, then you may need to seek other ways to increase your vitamin D intake. According to the US Institute of Medicine, your daily intake of vitamin D should be approximately 400 – 800 international units (IU),

oil, and Oily fish, fish liver r best option as they egg yolks are you D3 which is more contain Vitamin min D2 powerful than Vita

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which is equal to 10 – 20 micrograms. If you have little exposure to the sun or are already experiencing a vitamin D deficiency, you will likely need even more.

The most beneficial way for you to get your daily dose of vitamin D is by spending time in the sun. Adequate sun exposure is challenging for many people to achieve. Work, academic obligations, geographical constraints, and more can hinder the best of intentions. Even with regular exposure to the sun, it is not uncommon to find that it is still not enough. Increasing concerns about skin

cancer from sun damage presents a higher risk for some and may prevent typical sun exposure. If you believe you are not getting enough vitamin D, a supplement may be in order. A great place to start is by having a conversation with your physician about your specific risk factors.

Your doctor can help you to put together a specific and personalized plan that will ensure that your vitamin levels get to a healthy level in the easiest way possible.

When you correct your vitamin D levels, you will likely notice a very positive change in your mood and bodily function. So why wait? Making some dietary and activity level changes now will help you reap the most long-term benefits.

recipe

CHEESY CHEDDAR

By Amber Marie Arevalos

C

auliflower is a keto dieter's go-to “carb.” Since cauliflower is very low in carbohydrates and very versatile, it is a great for replacing rice, pasta and potatoes. 1/2 cup of cauliflower has only 1.5 grams of carbohydrates. With 1 full cup you can get 3 grams of fiber, 77 percent of your vitamin C, 20 percent of vitamin K, 11 percent vitamin B6 and 14 percent folate.

We all know that bacon has been around for centuries! It’s one food that so many people love. There are recipes for chocolate covered bacon, candied bacon and even fruit wrapped in bacon. I would say that out of all foods bacon is a favorite! This recipe gives bacon the chance to really put some flavor into cauliflower.

Bacon alone has some nutritional value, by providing 12 grams of protein. Although high in sodium and fat, on a keto diet we get a small pass to enjoy a serving of this delicious side dish!

r e w o l f i l u Ca Rice INGREDIENTS  4 cups riced cauliflower  1 tablespoon butter  1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt  3 tablespoons cream cheese  2 cup shredded cheddar cheese  salt and pepper to taste  6 pieces of bacon  2 tablespoons green onions

DIRECTIONS  I n a large pan, melt butter and stir in riced cauliflower on medium heat. Add salt and pepper. Continue to cook the cauliflower for 7-8 minutes until the cauliflower is of rice texture.  Turn down heat to medium low and stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted.  Add green onions and bacon. Serve immediately!

Servings: 4

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eat fresh

Top 5 Foods For Heart Health

By Kristy Podruchny

10

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ur hearts are amazing organs.

They pump right around 2,000 gallons of blood through your body in a day. Supporting your heart can be as simple as eating the right foods and moving your body daily.

We’ve ranked the top five foods for heart health to help guide your next shopping trip.

Omega 3 fatty acids have been studied extensively for their heart health benefits. A review published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism mentions that omega 3 fatty acids have proven useful in lowering triglycerides, blood pressure, regulating arrhythmias and preventing plaque in the arteries.

Fish are gems for heart health.

Their high levels of omega 3 fatty acids place them at the top of our list. Salmon, tuna, albacore, sardines, mackerel and herring are the fish with the highest levels of omega 3 fatty acids They also mention that you should aim for 500mg of omega 3 fatty acids per day, or two servings of cold-water fish per week.

If you’re a vegetarian or don’t like fish, don’t worry—we have just the seed for you and your heart.

Hemp seeds contain an ideal ratio of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids while being rich in essential fatty acids overall. They add a lovely crunch to salads and are easy to toss into your morning shake.You don’t need much more than a teaspoon to a tablespoon daily to protect your heart. Incorporate hemp seeds into your diet slowly to avoid digestive distress.

A handful of nuts, especially walnuts, should be your go-to snack for heart health. Overall, nuts have consistently proven how valuable they are to our hearts.

A 2010 review published in the journal Nutrients reports that nuts decrease your chances of coronary

heart disease, sudden cardiac death and high blood pressure while lowering blood cholesterol. Walnuts contain levels of alpha lineic acid (ALA) that surpass all edible plants and are a great option to consider on your next shopping trip. Get 1 ounce of nuts in your diet a day to boost heart health.

Leafy greens make it to many of our lists, but spinach stands out because it’s a food high in nitrate. Nitrates in foods like spinach decrease arterial stiffness and help regulate blood pressure levels in a randomized, controlled trial published in Clinical Nutrition Research. One cup of spinach per day is a helpful, heart healthy serving. Spinach can be gently sautéed, made into a wholesome salad and is easy to add to smoothies.

Lastly, let’s address that sweet tooth. Lovers of dark chocolate rejoice! A 2017 meta-analysis published in the journal Nutrients observed that one to six servings (1 serving is between 1 and 2 ounces) of dark chocolate a week has the potential to reduce your risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The antioxidant flavanols present in dark chocolate reduce inflammation and blood pressure. If you are looking for a post-meal healthy sweet snack, look to dark chocolate with at least 72 percent cocoa as your tasty heart health ally.

Supporting your heart can be as simple as eating the right foods and moving your body daily 11

recipe Nutrition Facts (1 Serving) Calories 457 Fat 19.8g Protein 22g Carbohydrate 53.5g

SAUSAGE

AND RICE SKILLET

By Amber Marie Arevalos

I

n these cold months, a warm hearty dish is all the family needs after a long day at school or work. As a busy mom, it is always nice to be able to serve a meal all out of one pot.This meal will provide comfort and nutrition. Vitamins C and D can be found in this recipe along with plenty of protein. You'll also get a ton of B vitamins by indulging in this guiltless dish!

All three peppers not only make the dish look beautiful, but pack a bunch of nutritional value. The bell peppers provide over 200 miligrams of vitamin C, which is two times the daily amount required for healthy daily function. Over 75 percent of our vitamin A daily value is met with one bowl of this dish. The peppers only add roughly 41 total calories.

The sausage boasts a whopping 20 grams of protein in just one medium link. Depending on the brand there is around 22 grams of fat in a medium-sized link and only 3.5 grams of carbohydrates.

This is a classic dish that will be a frequent request. My picky eaters can’t get enough of it! Each bowl leaves them wanting more!

INGREDIENTS  1 1/4 c. Jasmin rice  2 tsp. olive oil  1(12 ounce) package smoked a turkey sausage  1/2 red bell pepper, sliced  1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced  1/2 green bell pepper, sliced

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 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced  4 cloves garlic, minced  1/2 tsp. kosher sea salt  1/2 tsp. ground black pepper  5 tbsp. tomato paste  1 1/4 c. Vegetable broth, divided  1 tsp. paprika  1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

INSTRUCTIONS  I n a small saucepan, cook rice according to the package’s directions.  Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the oil. Once oil is hot, add the sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.  Add the peppers and onion, saute' until onions are translucent. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper, cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from the pan and set aside with the sausage.  To the skillet, add the tomato paste and about 3/4 cup of vegetable broth, whisk to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1 minute, then add the paprika and cayenne.  Stir in the cooked rice, sausage, remaining vegetable broth, pepper and onions until combined. Serve hot.

H

wellness

eart disease is the number one cause of death in America. It is common knowledge that diets high in saturated fat and cholesterol lead to heart disease. But did you know that added sugars, like high fructose corn syrup can also increase the risk of heart disease?

Researchers at University California, Davis conducted a study on the impacts of heart health and sugary drink consumption. Test subjects were given varying levels of added high fructose corn syrup in their drink and then had their blood tested hourly for heart disease risk factors, such as triglycerides. They found that 10 percent of added sugars were enough to lead to an increased risk for hearth disease.

When excess sugars are consumed, they are converted

into fat in the liver and then enter the bloodstream. In a way, consuming excess sugar is like eating high amounts of fat. High levels of fat in the bloodstream can clog arteries. When arteries become clogged, there is high risk for heart attack and stroke.

Foods with the highest amounts of high fructose corn syrup are obvious soda, many juices and candy. It is not always simple to avoid foods with added sugars.

Many foods that are promoted as healthy, are actually made with high fructose corn syrup.

Yogurts, salad dressings, canned fruit, and many bottled sauces and marinades are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup.

Reduced fat foods often use the processed sweetener to make up for the

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lost flavor that occurs when fat is removed. To avoid

common foods that can lead to heart disease, read the label carefully and watch out for unnecessary sweeteners.

Is it better to eat foods sweetened with sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup? Actually, no.Table sugar and high fructose corn syrup are both made up of similar amounts of glucose and fructose. Consuming Sugars in fruit are excess of either sweetener will have the same negative accompanied by fiber, water, effect on heart health. To and many other nutrients keep your heart healthy, it is that are good for you and best to avoid added sugars your heart. The body and in your diet. brain run on glucose, so feed Although you should it sugar in a natural form, watch out for added sugars, which is found in whole you should not be afraid of fruits, vegetables and grains. natural sugars in fruit and other whole foods.

HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP INCREASES THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE

By Crissie Mergogey

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cover story

t n a l p Trans es Gam

GOING FOR THE GOLD WITH NEW HEART

E

mily Traylor has a joy for life.

The runway trim, always-onthe-go wife, mom and volunteer enthusiastically approaches each day with a radiant smile, a competitive spirit and a new heart.

The 40-year-old Louisiana resident is one of thousands of transplant patients throughout the country experiencing a second chance at life thanks to the generosity of organ donors and their families.

“Life is beautiful and I am so thankful to be here,” Traylor emphasized with a smile that fades for just a moment as she recognizes another family’s loss. This summer, she will honor her unknown donor as an athlete in the Transplant Games of America, a multi-sport event for transplant recipients and living donors. The highly competitive event showcases the impact of organ, eye and tissue registration while celebrating life and remembering donors. “Crossing the finish line at the Transplant Games is

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By Patricia F. Danflous a feeling of triumph in your renewed life as well as deep gratitude to your donor,” said Traylor who ran track for Team Louisiana in 2018. This year she enters the swimming competition, an event that has special meaning for her.

“I was swimming backstroke during a race for my high school team when my body just stopped,” she recalled.

“I felt dizzy, couldn’t breathe and my heart felt like it was going to beat through my chest. I didn’t think much of it then, but I never swam competitively again. I am not sure why, but I think my body knew something was seriously wrong way before I did.”

Born with Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy defined as an enlarged and weakened heart, she had no idea that she had the condition. “I am adopted,” she explained, “and my parents did not have my medical background. Fortunately, a biological aunt contacted the adoption agency that women in her family had passed away from cardiomyopathy in their 20s. I was 19 when the agency notified us.”

A cardiologist confirmed what her body had already signaled– yes, she had Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Surrounded by her parents and boyfriend, now her husband, the next blow hit hard – if she survived to celebrate her 23rd birthday she would need a heart transplant. “Hearing that diagnosis was scary,” she confirmed.

“But for some reason, I knew I was going to be okay.”

With heart-preserving medication, a pacemaker and defibrillator, she made it well past 23. “I loved my career as a Pre-K teacher and got married at 24. We bought our first car, our first house and best of all, adopted a son. Life was great.”

Traylor lights up when she talks about her son Brayden. “I always wanted to be a mom and honestly, knowing that I would not be able to carry a child or take the chance that I could pass a disorder on to a daughter, was the hardest thing about accepting my heart condition,” she added. “One of the best days of our lives was finding out we could adopt.”

Brayden’s arrival demonstrated the Traylors' ability to share their love and live a fairly normal life.

“As our son grew, his energy grew, too,” Traylor laughed. “I kept up because of the immense love for children and family that keeps women moving. I lived exhausted.

Traylor thought she was a typical, trying-to-do-it-all young mother until a few years ago when she noticed significant changes. “I was extremely fatigued, pale, losing weight without trying and had a hard time breathing.” she said.

“Something is wrong,” she whispered as she walked into her cardiologist’s office with no appointment, little breath and difficulty speaking. Excessive night sweats, shortness of breath and constant coughing had persisted for too long with no improvement.

“Oh, my God, you look terrible, I’m admitting you,” was her doctor's immediate response.

“I knew I was dying when the diagnosis of end stage heart failure came in, but didn’t tell anyone. I still had a little fight in me and a son to raise,” she said.

While the cardiology team worked on a plan of action, Traylor was discharged in time to take her son Trick or Treating as a way to create happy family memories.

Focusing on Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to generate more memory moments, Traylor went through an extensive transplant qualifying process. A few days before Thanksgiving she was placed on the waiting list. “We celebrated the holidays that night, buying a Christmas tree so I could decorate with my son and the rest of the family even though I didn’t have much energy.”

“On December 12, 2016, I was admitted to wait for my heart,” she continued. “I was terrified, but ready to live, not just survive. I focused on getting a healthy heart and going home. I wanted to see my son grow up.”

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cover story A week into the waiting, a potential heart was available. “I called all my loud-Italian family who rushed up to my itty bitty hospital room to celebrate life,” she said. “There were tears because someone else died, but smiles because I was going to live. That is a lot to absorb. Grieving for your donor is an entirely different kind of grief.

There are no words to adequately describe the feelings involved.”

The heart was not a viable organ.

“How do I tell my son who is sitting beside me on my hospital bed holding my hand, how do I tell my mom, my husband, my entire family who is in my hospital room?” she questioned. “I couldn’t. I just stared at the ceiling for hours. The next day. I regrouped and

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had a long talk with God. After that, I had such a feeling of peace, and I knew that no matter what happened, I was going to be okay.”

She observed Christmas in the hospital and New Year’s Eve 2017 with an emphatic resolution – “no matter what, it is going to be a great year.”

She was right. A new heart was on its way and she entered surgery at 2 a.m.

January 6, 2017.

“A successful transplant means you can continue to live and look forward,” she explained. “At the same time there is grief. My prayers for my donor continue to be, ‘Thank you for saving my life. I am grateful to have such a strong, beating heart and honored to carry on your legacy. God

knew that we would work better as a team and I won’t let you down. This is the first day of my new life and our new journey together. Who knew that two strangers would one day share a heart, an organ, a life? You are a hero.

Thank you for the gift of life and for the gift of hope.”

Since the transplant, Traylor holds fast to a commitment to health and fitness and support for organ donor awareness. She runs track, swims, does CrossFit and rounds baseball bases with her son. “I’ve done 5Ks and more. I have walked the mountains of Utah,” she said. “ I am here to see my son start high school. I spend every single day thankful that I am alive and honoring my hero’s legacy with a healthy body.”

e v o L o t t e p A

pets

HAVING A PET HELPS YOU LIVE LONGER

By Ann Jarema

O

ver 60 percent of households in the United States have a pet, and this is with good reason. Pets provide families with countless hours of cuddles and laughter. Owning a dog or a cat, whether that pet is a rescue or straight from a reputable breeder, pets bring lots of happiness into our lives.

Aside from the cuteness and the cuddles, pets can bring a wide variety of health benefits. Most notably, pets help to improve self-esteem in their owners. As pet ownership requires more physical activity, especially with a dog, it means that there is a need for regular exercise. That daily walk with Fido can help both human and dog in countless ways. Not only can you make cardiovascular improvements to your body, but the sheer act of getting outdoors draws out the endorphins, which make you feel happier. And, when you feel happy, your self-esteem inevitably rises too.

Pets can also help to reduce feelings of loneliness. Cats and dogs help to fill a void that those who live alone often experience.That unconditional love can help pet owners to live a more meaningful existence. And though pets can’t necessarily keep up with a twoway verbal dialogue, they are significantly intuitive and can sense when their owners want to play, or when they are feeling down and need some extra love.

Though it takes work to own and care for a pet, pet ownership can help reduce feelings of stress. In fact, countless organizations all over the world that promote the use of pets for those that are experiencing grief. Dogs are often brought to hospitals, retirement communities, and even funerals so that people can pet them as a way to help themselves feel calmer.The simple act of petting a dog can create a sense of calm and peace and can make it easier to get through difficult times.

Of course, the majority of people like pets. So, one of the biggest benefits of

se when n e s n a Dogs c owners are their n and w o d g feelin xtra love need e a pet is that they help us to become more social. When out with your dog for a walk, it isn’t all that uncommon to get into a conversation with a passerby.

Perhaps the conversation will start by focusing on the dog, but over time, who knows where that conversation might go? Dogs can help us to make new friends!

A pet in your life can create benefits in a myriad of ways. From both physical and mental health benefits, our pets love us unconditionally and can support us through the highs and lows of life.

And all they ask of us is to be loved in return.

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mighty kids

n e T evaping

Four cases of lung disease hospitalization from teen vaping have been reported in Minnesota, six in Illinois, one in Florida, and up to 12 in Wisconsin.

In July alone, Wisconsin reported eight cases of teens with seriously damaged lungs. The Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin reported

By Ann Jarema that state health officials were investigating the July cases, but each teen said TEEN VAPING HAS BECOME A SERIOUS they smoked in the weeks and months prior to being EPIDEMIC ACROSS THE COUNTRY. hospitalized.

The Children’s Hospital In August, a 17-year-old here are many of Wisconsin advises that Texan was hospitalized for cases of severe if you have teens, you need his entire summer break lung disease to become aware of these due to vaping.Tryston among teenpotential dangers. An e-cigZohfield was rushed to the agers and intensive care unit on a ven- arette cartridge can contain young adults all linked to electronically vaportilator as machines kept him toxic chemicals that have been shown to damage ized cigarettes, known as alive. Zohfield told doctors e-cigarettes. Health officials he started vomiting regularly lungs, and because they and sited chest pains with an are new to the market, the throughout America are long-term effects are not erratic heart rate. Even the raising awareness about teen’s inhaler could not help fully understood. the dangers of vaping after A teen might tell you it is him breathe. It was later a spike in teens sent to diagnosed that Zohfield had just water vapor and flavorthe hospital with breathing ing in the e-cigarette pods a collapsed lung as a result problems, including lung they smoke.They might even of his e-cigarette usage. damage.

T

say they taste good.Teens look to vaping as a cigarette alternative, with e-cigarette companies marketing the products as something safer than tobacco.

The nicotine found in vaping devices is extremely potent. The potential nicotine addiction for your teen is higher compared to adults, according to Dr. Devika Rao, a pediatric pulmonologist at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, TX. Rao has warned there are heavy metals in vapes, like nickel, tin and lead, that can damage your teen’s lungs.

Since April, the FDA says it has received 92 reports of people having seizures after vaping, but has yet to find a cause or clear pattern. Even a study from the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine found that e-cigarettes without nicotine could damage your teen’s blood vessels.

there are heavy metals in vapes, like nic kel, tin and lead, that can damage your teen’s lungs.

18

discover Want something unique that will be sure to win some brownie points this Valentine’s Day? Consider these 14 unique suggestions.

1

BRING THE LOVE CREATIVE ACTIVITIES TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE'S DAY

By Ann Jarema VALENTINE’S DAY WILL BE HERE BEFORE WE KNOW IT. DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. THOSE WHO TAKE THE TIME TO PREPARE NOW WILL BE FAR MORE LIKELY TO PLEASE THEIR LOVED ONES. WITH SO MANY THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO SEE, THERE ARE SO MANY OPTIONS OTHER THAN THE TYPICAL HUM-DRUM DINNER OUT.

Take a dance lesson –What better to do on Valentine’s Day than to twirl around your loved one and have them end up in your arms?

2

Go to a winery and take a wine lesson –A little wine is sure to warm you up and bring a blush to your cheeks.

3

Attend a poetry reading–No poetry readings in your area? Then head to your local library and look up some poems from a romantic poet like Wordsworth, Keats, or Blake. Then, end the night by writing your own love poem together while enjoying a glass of rosé.

4

Paint a picture together–We’re not talking about those classes where everyone paints the same thing (though those are cool too). Why

not get your own canvas and paints, lay out some plastic sheeting, and get crazy together?

5

Go on a winter hike–If you are in the north, bundle up in your favorite parka, boots, and hats and hit the trail.

If in the south, look for a unique trail that you have never visited before.

6

Get a couple’s massage, spa service or pedicure–Nothing like relaxing while tantalizing the senses!

7

Start your day early by enjoying the sunrise–Who says a Valentine’s Day activity needs to wait until the evening? Why not start your day with a trip to the best place in town to watch the sunrise? Then, why not partake in a hike together followed by a breakfast at a local bakery?

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Why not start your day with a trip to the best place in town to watch the sunrise?

8

Take a cooking class –Love to cook? Or not good at cooking? Sign up for a cooking class hosted by a professional chef.

9

Cook a meal together –Not into the cooking class idea but you’re both self-proclaimed foodies? Why not find a new recipe, head to the local grocery store to pick up fresh groceries, and then head home to cook the meal together? Be sure to enjoy it by candlelight when done!

10

Visit a psychic for a tarot card reading– Try something completely new. It doesn't matter if you are into astrology or mysticism. If anything, the experience will make for a great conversation starter.

11

Spend the evening in a historic hotel– We’re not talking about the

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Hilton or Marriott located downtown. Do some homework and look for a hotel with a story to tell. There are hundreds of unique hotels located across the country that have some amazing history–find one, book the room and enjoy your night.

12

Go skydiving or ziplining–Nothing will take your breath away quite like the exhilaration of a zipline tour across the tree-tops or jumping out of an airplane.

13

Create a scavenger hunt–Feeling like something unique, adventurous and sexy? Plan a scavenger hunt for your partner that has you making some pretty fun stops around town (you can even make it a day-long activity and build in some of the before

mentioned suggestions).

End the day with something sexy and romantic, or coordinate your activities to prepare for a long, romantic, intimate evening.

14

Renew your vows (or relationship)– Why not jet-set across the country to Vegas and renew your vows? Look for the craziest opportunity pos-

sible so that you can enjoy the actual renewal, but also get some great giggles out of the experience. Or, set up a twinkle light romantic evening for a private vow renewal in your backyard.

Write your own vows to each other and renew that kindred spirit.

healthy mind

5 WAYS YOU MAY BE SA B OTAG ING YOUR RE SOLUTIO NS

By Dr. Bradley Nelson

N

o matter our goals, sometimes we end up making choices or acting in a way that undermines what we really want, even with the best of conscious intentions, we often allow this self-sabotage to creep in and prevent us from reaching our goals.

Here are 5 ways people sabotage their goals and what to do about it:

1

FOCUSING ON FAILURE What to do: The people who succeed may actually have more failures in their lives because it’s those failures that lead to the skill and wisdom to succeed the next time. Rather than feeling defeated when you fail, look for the lessons and the things you’ve done right that you can build upon.

2

NOT CELEBRATING SMALL VICTORIES What to do: When you’re working on a goal, it usually helps to break it down into smaller milestones. The same concept can be applied to the celebration of those milestones. Don’t wait to pat yourself on the back until you’ve reached your goal. Celebrate the minor victories you achieve along the way.

3

PROCRASTINATING What to do: Procrastination may result from feelings or Trapped Emotions of fear, dread, or insecurity. Resolving the emotions that may cause you to put things off can make a world of difference in your success.

4

FAKING IT What to do: Ever found yourself putting on a fake smile when you really feel sad, angry, or resentful?

r found yourself

Eve Releasing these negative ile emotions may be as putting on a fake sm quick and easy as using ou really feel sad, y n he w The Emotion Code™ to angry, or resentful? rid yourself of that energy. It has helped thousands of people release Summary: negativity and experience • Learn from your failures. the joy and motivation • Celebrate small victories. that keeps them moving • Resolve feelings that toward the things they cause procrastination. really want.

• Rid yourself of negative energy.

IMPOSTER SYN• Note your accomplishDROME (feeling you ments. are not worthy of success,

5

happiness, love, etc.)

What to do: Take stock of your accomplishments – write them down. And don’t just focus on the big things. After all, the small stuff is what adds up to make you the person you are. Hold on to your list. Add to it at every opportunity. Use it to fuel positive affirmations about who you really are and what you’re capable of.

If you can do these five things, chances are you’ll be better equipped to stop sabotaging yourself and start achieving your goals.

About Dr. Brad: Veteran holistic physician Dr. Bradley Nelson (D.C., ret) is one of the world’s foremost experts on natural methods of achieving wellness. He has trained thousands of certified practitioners worldwide to help people overcome physical and emotional discomfort by releasing their emotional baggage. His best-selling book "The Emotion Code" provides step-by-step instructions for working with the body's energy healing power.

A newly revised and expanded edition of "The Emotion Code" is now available (May 2019, St. Martin's Press). For more information and a free Emotion Code Starter Kit, visit www. emotioncodegift.com.

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healthy destinations

T Best Wellness Retreats For Couples

ired of the same old weekend resort getaways? Want to do something good for your body and soul? Want to connect more with your partner? If you answered yes to any of these three questions, why not consider a weekend (or longer) away at a wellness retreat. We’re not talking about a fat camp or place to go and lose some pounds. We’re talking about luxurious spa-like retreat centers that offer great healthy food, fun activities, and a place to relax, all in one.

Check out our top picks for great wellness retreats, all located here in the United States.

By Ann Jarema

O

ne of our top picks is the Miraval Arizona. Set in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, this all-inclusive retreat center places an emphasis on spirituality while providing an abundance of yoga, fitness, and overall wellness courses. With an on-site restaurant, snack bar, and full bar with cocktails, you’ll have everything you need to relax and recharge.

Miraval Arizona Contact: 855-234-1672 - 5000 E.. Via Estancia - Tucson, AZ 85739

Miraval 22

A

nother amazing getaway place is the Red Mountain Resort located in St. George, Utah. This wellness retreat center is nestled into the landscape of the vivid red rock cliffs that are so common in the area. At this resort, you can be as active or relaxed as you want. Coordinate an adventure to Zyon or Bryce Canyon National Park. Or, select their rejuvenate and live well package and have access to a personal physician who will work with you on your body composition, fitness and metabolic testing, and nutrition.

Red Mountain Resort Contact: 877-246-4453 - 1275 E. Red Mountain Circle - Irvine, Utah, 84738

Red Mountain Resort L

ooking for a mountain getaway? Try Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee. Take a nature hike, set out for a mountain biking adventure, try fly fishing, or stay in for a day at the spa, the choice is yours. With all that plus horseback riding, culinary and tasting experiences, paddle sports, and other leisure activities, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to focus on each other as well as what is good for you.

Blackberry Farm Contact: 865-984-8166 - 1471 W. Millers Cove Rd. Walland, TN 37886

Blackberry Farm

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fashion

Colorful THIS WINTER

L

By Shirin Mehdi

ove is an amazing emotion. It is, in fact, the most powerful emotion that can make the whole world go into a tizzy. Believe it or not, it is what takes over even when you go shopping. It is only when you fall in love with something you buy it, isn’t it? By the way, did you know that emotions play a big role when it comes to dressing?

Studies say that the way you dress can reflect how you feel. You wear your best clothes when you feel good and do not make much of an effort to dress up when you feel the blues. That’s where color comes into play. There is an important relationship between color and psychology so no matter how you feel, the colors you wear can influence your mood.

You are about to feel that warm, fuzzy emotion called love, as you scroll through these beautiful boiled wool pieces from pirkko.com. Based in Seattle, Pirkko showcases Scandinavian designs that are simple yet sophisticated. They believe in fashion with a purpose and therefore host a collection of extremely versatile pieces that are classic and evergreen.

THE YELLOW IFA JACKET BY RITVA FALLA

Yellow is the most vibrant color of the visible color spectrum.

It is the happiest color that stands for all things optimistic. This jacket is an ode to all things retro while still being extremely fashionable.

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THE ORANGE AHO COAT BY MARIMEKKO

Orange is a color that evokes warmth and enthusiasm and that is exactly what this dropped sleeve coat will bring with it in the cold winter months.

You wea clothes w r your best hen you feel good and do n ot make mu an effort to dress u ch of p when you feel the blues

THE SANOA COAT BY MARIMEKKO

Made of a boiled wool blend in dark blue.The coat is unlined and has large patch pockets, and a front concealed snap button closure.

THE SOFT PINK MOLLA COAT BY MARIMEKKO

Pink is the universal color for love. It is also the epitome of all things sweet and feminine. This lovely lose fitted coat will accentuate your girly side with both its color and its cut.

For those of you wondering what boiled wool is, it is a type of felted wool that is made by processing wool with hot water. The fabric shrinks, thereby creating a dense felted texture that neither frays nor shrinks. That means – easy care!

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recipe

PALEO STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

By Amber Marie Arevalo

L

ove is in the air! With so many love-inspired dishes out there, incorporating strawberries is a must. Since one of my little ones has a gluten intolerance, I had to start building my recipe box back up with things he could enjoy.

These strawberry shortcakes are not only delicious, but healthy as well!

Nothing says "I Love You" like a dessert that cares about your families sweet tooth and health!

Coconut flour's popularity has been growing exponentially. At first, people were unsure how to use it or where to find it, but it has grown to be a staple in many households.

Strawberries are full of Vitamin C, folate, potassium, manganese and packed with antioxidants. Although, some strawberries may be really sweet, they do not spike blood sugar levels making them a safe choice for diabetics. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, then with topping off your dessert with these heart healthy berries!

NUTRITION

Calories 215. Fat 15g. Protein 6g.

Carbs 14g. Sugar 11g

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INGREDIENTS Shortcake: • 1/3 cup coconut flour • 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted • 4 eggs • 3 tbsp honey • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp baking powder • dash of salt Coconut Milk Whipped Cream: • 1 can full-fat, unsweetened coconut milk, refrigerated • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract • 1-2 tsp honey Topping • 1 cup strawberries, frozen or fresh DIRECTIONS P reheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease 6 muffin tins with coconut oil. In a large bowl, beat together coconut oil, eggs, vanilla and honey.  Add the dry ingredients and beat until combined completely and with no lumps. P our the batter into the 6 muffin tins. The shortcakes will rise a little so leave a little room. B ake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and when a toothpick

is inserted it comes out clean. Let the shortcakes cool for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove from the muffin tins and let them cool completely.  Take the coconut milk and skim off the solid part into a mixing bowl.

Do not use the liquid. Beat the solid milk until peaks begin to form, then add vanilla and honey and beat for a few more minutes.  I f using frozen strawberries, leave out to defrost! O nce the shortcakes are cooled, cut in half.  Top with a bit of whipped cream and strawberries and top with the other half of the shortcake. Top with more whipped cream and strawberries, and enjoy!

5 TOP FOODS for a

longevity hearts, and reduce fatal arrhythmias.The plant sterols in almonds specifically, can reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the diet, while the unsaturated oils encourage the liver to make less LDL and more “good” HDL. Oranges These zippy and delicious citrus fruits contain a super soluble fiber called pectin, the famed compound also found in apples, which acts like a sponge inside the digestive system, absorbing excess cholesterol from food and blocking its absorption. Citrus pectin may also assist the body in neutralizing proteins that can cause scarring of the heart tissue. Be sure to consume the whole fruit though, as the pectin is contained in the pulp and pith.

HEALTHY TICKER!

By Meg Pearson

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

- Hippocrates -

NO GREATER WORDS HAVE BEEN SPOKEN ABOUT THE DEEP RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN YOUR HEALTH AND WHAT YOU PUT INTO YOUR BODY AT EVERY MEAL. HIPPOCRATES UNDERSTOOD THIS CONCEPT MORE THAN 2,000 YEARS AGO, AND AS WE CELEBRATE HEART MONTH EACH FEBRUARY, THERE IS NO BETTER TIME TO TALK ABOUT BODY-LOVING FOODS.

I

t goes without saying that many of us will perhaps indulge in some red wine or dark chocolate with our loves on Valentine’s Day. Recent research has extolled the benefits of these sinfully delicious treats, along with the beloved cholesterol-clearing oatmeal.Today, we are going to look at a few ordinary bites, foods that are in their own right truly super foods!

After all, fruits and vegetables truly are extraordinary and “super’”! A truly healthy diet features a broad range of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes, and here is a list of five of the best when it comes to keeping a high cardiovascular score! .

Blueberries Remember when I mentioned red wine? Well, its claim to fame for heart health, is resveratrol, which may help prevent damage to blood vessels and minimize the risks of blood clots.

This special compound may also reduce the build-up of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or the “bad” cholesterol, in artery walls that contributes to cardiovascualr disease and stroke. It is also thought that antioxidants like Anthocyanin found in

berries (blueberries, strawberries and blackberries) help neutralize harmful byproducts of metabolism called free radicals that can lead to cancer and other age-related diseases.

Lentils Since we’re talking plant-based power foods here, let’s honor the humble lentil. Because they come from plants, legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas are an excellent source of lean veggie protein and fiber without a lot of unhealthy fat. Legumes are also a great source of folate and magnesium, which may fight hypertension by limiting calcium buildup. Another mineral these little guys are loaded with is potassium, an electrolyte that counterbalances sodium - crucial for keeping blood pressure under control.

Leafy Greens Dark green, leafy vegetables such as kale, Swiss chard, spinach and collards are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may protect against cardiovascular disease. Spinach is also rich in folate, which helps reduce levels of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood.

High levels of homocysteine can be a possible risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. Ever-popular Kale boasts an extra special compound that activates a protective protein called Nrf2.This protein develops a coating in your arteries to keep plaque from adhering.

So, what’s really important when it comes to showing your heart some real love, is eating a variety of fresh, unprocessed foods that deliver all of the nutrients and micronutrients needed to keep it, and you, healthy overall.

Next time you are off to your local health food store to stock up on all those famous prepackaged and promoted “superfood” products, why not swing by your local famers market instead or visit the organic produce section of your favorite supermarket to fill your shopping basket with these alternatives.

Meg Pearson is the author of (un)cookbook MAP Wellness Morsels available through itunes!

Go Nuts! - Almonds, Walnuts, and Chia Almonds have long been a healthnut’s go-to snack, but it doesn’t deserve all the attention. Walnuts and Chia seeds are right up there on the list as far as benefits to the ticker is concerned.

Chock-full of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, all of these guys promote healthy

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