Health & Wellness 2018

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Improve GERD symptoms with natural remedies

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astroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a painful condition in which stomach acid flows up the esophagus and into the mouth. Sometimes called dyspepsia, acid reflux or heartburn, GERD can generate a fiery sensation in the chest and throat that can range from mild to severe.

What is GERD? GERD can affect anyone regardless of their age, gender or ethnicity. In the United States, approximately 20 percent of the population has GERD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Five million Canadians experience heartburn and/or acid regurgitation at least once each week, states the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation.

GERD can cause difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, a sensation of a lump in the throat, or chest pain, advises the Mayo Clinic. Some people experience intermittent symptoms of GERD, while others experience symptoms with every meal or in between meals. People who have chronic reflux might also suffer from nighttime symptoms, such as disrupted sleep or chronic cough. The NIDDK says GERD also may cause Barrett’s esophagus, a condition in which tissue that is similar to the intestine replaces the tissue lining the esophagus.

Treating symptoms

In many mild to moderate cases of

reflux, individuals can rely on lifestyle changes and natural remedies to prevent symptoms.

Avoid food triggers.

Certain foods and beverages, such as greasy or spicy recipes and alcoholic beverages, can make GERD symptoms strike. Acidic foods, chocolate, onions, carbonated beverages, and caffeinated beverages also may trigger GERD. Fasting before bedtime. Avoid eating food and consuming beverages two to three hours before bedtime.

Lose weight. According to the Center for Esophageal Motility Disorders at Vanderbilt University, obesity is the leading cause of GERD. Extra stomach fat puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing gastric acids into the esophagus.

Losing weight can reduce this pressure.

Eat small meals. Rather than eating a few big meals, eat small meals throughout the day.

Try natural herbs. WebMD says that some natural GERD remedies contain German chamomile, lemon balm, licorice, milk thistle, and angelica. Also, melatonin, a supplement used as a sleep aide, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn. But the research is conflicting as to whether melatonin is effective.

Always discuss supplement use with a doctor prior to starting a regimen.

Drink low-fat milk. Milk may temporarily buffer stomach acid, but high-fat milk may stimulate the stomach

to produce more acid.

stomach acid from coming into the esophagus.

Chew gum. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which can be an Stay upright. Stay upright after eating a acid buffer, offers WebMD. Chewing meal for at least three hours. In bed, gum also results in more swallowing, sleep on a slight angle by raising the which can force acids out of the head of the bed a few inches. esophagus.

GERD can be painful, but with a few Quit smoking. Some studies indicate nicotine relaxes the muscles of the lower changes, people can overcome this esophageal sphincter, the flap that blocks condition.

The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

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Fresco Kitchen chef says eating healthy does not have to be hard

By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily

tantly healthy alternatives to proceed unhealthy foods.”

WINCHESTER – When people decide to change their lives by eating healthy, Barbara Hineline, owner of Fresco Kitchen, knows from personal experience that it isn’t always easy.

Hineline decided she wanted to implement the same program for individuals searching for healthier alternatives to fast or processed food.

“Eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard but for many people it can be and is,” Hineline said. “We don’t have to look too far for the likely culprits of bad nutrition. Many Americans rely on food prepared away from their homes as a regular part of their everyday diet. From fast food to packaged foods, bad decisions are all around us.

Why? Because for many, picking up that drive-through burger is easier than standing in the kitchen cooking a home cooked meal. That’s just how society is today.”

Hineline said she hopes to change that mindset with her new portion controlled-, home-like cooked meals.

After losing over 25 pounds on Weight Watchers and personally learning what food worked and didn’t work for her body and type, Hineline began thinking about the Winchester community and how she could aid in healthier eating options for all.

“Diets come and go but lifestyle changes last forever,” she said.

With over 20 individuals and families, Hineline began her Fresco Kitchen prepared meals program. Hineline said she works with everyone from teachers and executives to stay-at-home moms like Jessica Jenkins of Winchester, who were simply looking for an alternative way to eat healthy.

“After the birth of my son, I wanted to get back into eating healthy,” Jenkins said. “I tried eating healthy before, but it was horrible. I hated the food. Barbara makes healthy food taste so good you don’t even realize how healthy it is.”

heart of gold. She really is such a gem for the community.”

and dinner. Not everyone who participants partake in all three meals but Hineline said a good majority do. Because Hineline is a In preparation for the program, Hineline said she did a lot of research to understand seasonal chef, many of the meals follow what popular diet trends people are follow- the seasons and are prepared with locally sourced food options. ing. But more importantly, she said she wanted to be able to offer options for Meals are $9.50 for individual portions or everyone, not just those looking to lose Hineline said she offers a prepaid meal weight but for the person with food allerpackage. gies, autoimmune diseases or sensitivity to Menu items include chicken marsala with processed foods. mushrooms and pan-seared green beans, “Regardless of the outcome, for many it classic meatloaf with cauliflower mashed comes down to portion control and knowpotatoes and roasted broccoli, and shrimp ing what nutrients your body needs,” she explained. “After all, everyone’s needs are ginger bowls with snow peas, broccoli different because let's be real, no two bod- and carrots. ies are the same.”

“My goal is to offer delicious healthy meals that anyone and everyone will The prepared meals are gluten-free, enjoy,” she said. “That’s what matters the Whole30 friendly, vegetarian, vegan and keto adaptable. She offers breakfast, lunch most to me.”

Jenkins said one of the main reasons she decided to work with Hineline was because she offered so many tasty food options that were healthy and provided her with the nutrients that she needed as a new mom.

“But Barbara is so much more,” she said.

“Not only is she an amazing chef but she “When I worked in Northern Virginia, I isn’t one of those people who just own a was a personal chef for a family,” she explained. “And I would prepare their meals business. She engages with us. She becomes our friends. She knows my kids' for them once a week. They just loved it names, even the ones she hasn’t met. She because I was able to provide them with home-cooked meals that were most impor- asks how they are doing. She just has this

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The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

4

Understanding panic disorder V

arious disorders can disrupt daily life and compromise people’s productivity while adversely affecting their happiness. Panic disorder is one such condition and can be especially problematic because of the seeming spontaneity of panic attacks.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America notes that roughly 3 percent of Americans experience panic disorder, or PD, in a given year. While that might seem like a small percentage, it still translates to nearly 10 million people, many of whom may benefit from taking the time to understand PD.

What is PD?

• Sweating

The ADAA says panic disorder is diagnosed in people who experience spontaneous panic attacks. These people are preoccupied with the fear of a recurring attack.

• Trembling or shaking

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is the abrupt onset of intense fear or discomfort. Panic attacks peak within minutes and are characterized by a host of symptoms, not all of which must be present to qualify an incident as a panic attack.

Attacks occur unexpectedly and may even cause sufferers to awake from sleep.

Can anyone have PD?

No one is immune to PD, though some people are more likely to experience PD than others. The ADAA notes that panic disorder is twice as common in women than in men. While even children can have panic disorder and may experience panic-like symptoms, PD typically begins in adults age 20 or older.

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

Various symptoms are associated with panic attacks. But the ADAA notes that not all symptoms linked to panic attacks must be present to confirm an attack. In fact, some people may experience limited-symptom panic attacks, which are similar to full-blown panic attacks but consist of fewer than four symptoms. Men and women should never self-diagnose, and anyone who suspects he or she suffered a panic attack should consult a physician immediately. But if at least four of the following symptoms are present, a person may have suffered a fullblown panic attack.

• Palpitations, pounding heart or accelerated heart rate

• Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering • Feelings of choking • Chest pain or discomfort • Nausea or abdominal distress • Feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint • Chills or heat sensations • Paresthesia (numbness or tingling sensations) • Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself) • Fear of losing control or “going crazy” • Fear of dying People who have experienced panic attacks and have not been diagnosed with PD may feel as though they are dealing with a life-threatening issue, as the intensity of attack symptoms can mimic those of conditions such as heart disease, thyroid problems and other issues.

Individuals who think they might have experienced a panic attack or those who suddenly exhibited any of the aforementioned symptoms are advised to exercise caution and report incidents to their physicians as soon as possible.

Is PD treatable?

The ADAA notes that PD is highly treatable and that people who suspect they have experienced panic attacks should not hesitate to report incidents to their physicians out of embarrassment or fear.

More information about panic disorder is available at www.adaa.org.

Did you know?

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ccording to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States. Roughly 40 million adults in the United States, or 18 percent of the country’s population, has an anxiety disorder. Developing from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events, anxiety disorders are highly treatable.

Unfortunately, the ADAA notes that less than 40 percent of those suffering from anxiety disorders receive treatment. Treatment of anxiety disorders can be highly effective and can even help people deal with other disorders, as the ADAA says nearly one-half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. People living with anxiety disorders who seek treatment may find they also are suffering from depression, compelling them to receive treatment for that disorder as well and further improving their quality of life.

The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

Fitness studio manager: Being healthy does not stop at 50

By Ashley Miller For The Northern Virginia Daily WINCHESTER – With a background in kinesiology and working with clients of all ages, Olive Legge, studio manager at Orangetheory Fitness, knows one thing: age doesn’t matter when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle; it’s just a number.

“One of the residents I worked with [at Orchard Ridge] was 92, in a wheelchair and couldn’t walk,” Legge said. “We were able to get her out of her wheelchair to standing in a pool, which then translated into standing on land. When I look back, it really was such a beautiful moment because not only did I give her the confidence she needed, I was able to help someone who maybe thought, because of her age, she couldn’t be helped. Bottom line: no matter what age the individual is, it’s not impossible.”

For those individuals over 50 who have the mindset that aging is difficult, Legge wants them to know it’s not.

“As people grow older, again, I’m not emphasizing any particular age, we can benefit from monitoring our diet, exercising, joint health, maintaining sleep cycles and reducing our stress levels,” she said. “Staying fit and healthy does one thing; it keeps you young no matter your age.”

Legge recalled another client she worked with: a 65-year-old woman who wanted to run a mile. Legge said it wasn’t easy, but with a little determination, her client ran that mile. And then some.

“When people talk about physical activity, they immediately think of running or an intense physical activity,” she said. “But it doesn’t have to be. Even moderate exercise can be beneficial.”

When it comes to exercising, Legge is a firm believer in any sort of physical activity – low or high impact is good for the body. Walking, yoga or swimming are good for individuals with joint issues, while higher intensity activities such as running or boxing increase the heartrate at a faster rate.

“Getting the body moving, increasing that heart rate, that’s what we need to do,” she said. “That’s how we keep our bodies physically young.”

Legge is also a big proponent of knowing and understanding what the body needs to maintain itself. She also understands and stresses to each client she works with how everyone is different. Just because one person can tolerate keto doesn’t mean everyone can, Legge said. It comes down to knowing what nutrients your body needs to maintain itself.

More than anything, Legge said she wants to remove that stigma that being healthy stops at 50.

“You can be 19 or 50 and be in the best shape of your life,” she said. “It simply comes down to you wanting it. You have to want it. It’s easy from there.”

Legge said she wants individuals over 50 to know that the next generations are looking toward them for guidance.

“They’re wiser than we are. They’ve seen more than we have. They know more than we do,” she said. “We’re paying attention to those healthy habits; to that can-do mentality, in hopes that we can teach our children, their children’s children the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

Orangetheory Fitness is located at 2130 S Pleasant Valley Road. Website: https://winchester.orangetheoryfitness.commeals that anyone and everyone will enjoy,” she said. “That’s what matters the most to me.”

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

The connection between eating and energy

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he connection between energy and eating is significant. A healthy diet and approach to eating can vastly improve energy levels, while a poorly planned diet that lacks nutrition can contribute to feelings of fatigue and increase a person’s risk for various ailments.

The Harvard Medical School notes that different kinds of foods are converted to energy at different rates. That’s why some foods, such as candy, provide quick boosts of energy while foods such as whole grains tend to supply the body with energy reserves that it can draw on throughout the day.

down, as the body absorbs and stores more of the food it eats. Those stores include cholesterol and fat, which can be unhealthy and contribute to weight gain.

However, by eating small meals more frequently, one’s metabolism speeds up and more calories are burned. The body recognizes more food is soon on the way and, as a result, it does not need to store as much cholesterol and fat as it would if meals were eaten less frequently.

Avoid a big lunch. The Harvard Medical School notes that, while the reasons are unclear, research has indicated that the circadian rhythms of people who eat big lunches indicate a more significant drop It’s not just what people eat but how they in afternoon energy levels than the eat that can affect their energy levels. In rhythms of people who eat smaller addition to choosing the right foods, men midday meals. Men and women who eat big lunches and find their energy levels and women can try the following waning later in the workday can try to include fruits such as apples and fresh strategies as they look to eat to boost eat smaller midday meals to boost their berries or protein sources like nuts and their energy levels. energy.

Greek yogurt, can provide lasting energy.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals.

It’s also important that men and women Avoiding the traditional three-meals-per- Be careful with caffeine. The foods people eat are not the only components not snack to fill themselves up, but day approach may help improve energy levels, especially for people who tend to of their diet that can affect their energy levels. Caffeinated beverages can provide eat sizable meals once, twice or even a temporary boost of energy as well. three times every day. According to the However, men and women who drink Cleveland Clinic, the metabolisms of people who do not eat regularly will slow coffee or other caffeinated beverages to boost their energy levels should avoid doing so in large amounts after 2 p.m.

That’s because caffeine can cause insomnia, and insufficient sleep can dramatically affect energy levels.

Choose the right snacks. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may compel some people to snack. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics notes that snacks are important as long as they’re the right snacks. Avoid snacks that are just empty calories in favor of foods that contain protein and fiber-rich carbohydrates.

Such snacks, which may

rather to quell any hunger pangs and get an energy boost between meals.

The foods people eat and when they eat them can have a dramatic impact on their energy levels.

The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

Avoiding foodborne poisoning

GRACIOUS SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING

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umerous foodborne illness outbreaks of salmonella and E. coli have occurred across the United States and Canada in 2018. And such outbreaks are not limited to North America. In May, more than 40 cases of hepatitis A were reported in six European Union countries, according to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control.

When two or more people get the same illness from the same food or drink source, the event is called a foodborne disease outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While infection from salmonella strains and escherichia coli are some of the most notable contagions, other illnesses can occur as well, as evidenced by the EU hepatitis outbreak.

Listeria and cyclospora are some other known foodborne illness pathogens.

Through the first half of 2018, warnings and recalls have been issued by the CDC for shell eggs, romaine lettuce, dried coconut, chicken salad, kratom, raw sprouts, and frozen shredded coconut due to illness outbreaks.

The ramifications of food illnesses are significant. The Food and Drug Administration and the CDC reported that 121 people in 25 states became ill in April 2018 from eating romaine lettuce grown in the region of Yuma, Arizona.

Forty-six of those individuals were hospitalized, including 10 who developed a type of kidney failure. One person in California died from the sickness.

Increased reporting about foodborne illness outbreaks begs the question as to whether or not more can be done to reduce the spread of these harmful pathogens. Contamination can occur in various places as food makes its way to dinner tables. Long-term prevention of foodborne illness outbreaks involves the cooperation of many people in the

production chain — all the way to the consumer, according to the CDC. • Production and harvesting needs to be safe and clean, with efforts to keep food products free of animal waste and sewage contamination.

• Inspection of processing plants can help ensure sanitary practices are in place.

• Pasteurization, irradiation, canning, and other steps can kill pathogens during food processing.

• People who package or prepare foods must properly wash their hands and clean facilities where food is handled.

• Food service workers should not go to work when they are ill.

• Foods need to be kept at proper temperatures during transport and when on display at stores.

• Consumers should be aware of expiration dates and employ proper food handling and cooking measures. These include thoroughly washing produce, and cooking poultry, meats and other foods to the recommended temperatures.

People who experience food poisoning should report each instance to the local or state health department. Identifying symptoms and location can help health officials track illnesses and look for similar exposures.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

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The Northern Virginia Daily

A realistic guide to organic food I

n a perfect world, chemicals would not be needed to produce any foods, all of which would be made in sustainable conditions and from allnatural ingredients. But even the most eco-conscious foodie routinely faces difficult decisions at the grocery store.

The Organic Trade Association says organic food is the fastest-growing sector of the American food industry, and organic food now accounts for more than 5 percent of total food sales. While many people understand the benefits to consuming organic produce, such foods tend to cost more, compromising shoppers’ budgets as a result. Making smart choices and getting the facts about organic food can help consumers make informed decisions.

Smarter organic choices According to the food and health resource the Environmental Working Group, certain fruits and vegetables are more likely to feature residual pesticides than others. They dub these foods the “Dirty Dozen,” which include strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, potatoes, and sweet bell peppers. Shoppers who cannot afford strictly organic foods can opt for nonorganic items that are less likely to contain residual pesticides.

Fearing antibiotics Many people are concerned about milk, meat and poultry treated with antibiotics.

Organic foods are antibiotic-free. The Food and Drug Administration has strict guidelines in place to phase out the use of antibiotics in food animals to enhance growth or improve feed efficiency. They’re also requiring farmers to select strains of microbials that are less medically important to humans who would need them to treat disease. This means that conventional milk, meat and poultry may contain less antibiotics than consumers know.

Also, according to the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, poultry are not given

growth hormones, so there’s little need to pay more for hormone-free.

Organic and pesticides To be “organic,” foods produced and sold in the United States and Canada must be shown to conserve natural resources and be devoid of GMOs, among other requirements. However, USDA organic certification allows for natural substances, such as pheromones, vaccines for animals and a limited number of natural pesticides. Also, a 2011 survey by the USDA showed 39 percent of 571 organic samples were found to have pesticide residues, but well below tolerance levels set by the EPA. Therefore, pesticide-free and organic are not exclusive.

Organic foods are seen as a healthy alternative to foods that do not fall into this category. While there are many positive reasons to go organic, including conventional foods in one’s diet is not necessarily unhealthy.

The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

When is clumsiness a cause for concern?

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ho hasn’t tripped over his own feet or knocked over a water glass on a table? No one is immune to the occasional clumsiness, but some people may grow concerned that their bouts of clumsiness are becoming more frequent.

brain, nerves, cerebellum, which specializes in coordination and balance, muscles, and bones must work together.

Clumsiness can result from stroke, seizure disorders, brain trauma or the presence of tumors, and other conditions.

Healthline also says that clumsiness may For healthy people, bumping into a wall be an early symptom of Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s. Parkinson’s when misjudging a corner or dropping silverware on the floor is often a minor, affects the central nervous system and isolated incident. Lack of concentration can impair motor skills. Alzheimer’s slowly damages and kills brain cells and or multitasking often may be to blame.

In 2007, Professor Charles Swanik and a may cause issues with coordination. This may be the case with other dementias as research team at the University of well.

Delaware studied athletes to discover why some seem to be more injury prone Clumsiness may sometimes result from a than others. Researchers found that lack of sleep or overconsumption of clumsy athletes’ brains seemed to have alcohol. Arthritis also can lead to “slowed processing speed,” which clumsiness when joint pain and referred to how their brains understand restrictive movements make it new information and respond to it. challenging to get around.

But clumsiness also can be a sign of a Psychologists may suggest cognitive bigger issue at play, namely motor behavioral therapy or propose problems within the brain. According to performing tasks with more mindfulness Taylor Harrison, MD, clinical instructor to reduce clumsiness. If that doesn’t in the neuromuscular division of Emory work, men and women should visit their University, coordination of the body is physicians, who can conduct tests to rule complicated and tied to both motor and out certain things and provide peace of mind. senory systems. That means the eyes,

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The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

10

beverages to avoid to enjoy better sleep on the road

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good night’s sleep has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved mood and less chronic pain. While many people go to great lengths to create welcoming sleep environments in their homes, it can be difficult to recreate such atmospheres while traveling. That only highlights the importance of taking other steps to improve sleep while on the road, including avoiding certain beverages that can compromise one’s ability to get a good night’s rest.

1. Alcoholic beverages: The National Sleep Foundation notes that alcohol may interrupt a person’s circadian rhythm, affecting chemicals in the body that signal it when to sleep or wake up.

Alcohol can help induce sleep, but the London Sleep Centre notes that alcohol can be especially disruptive in the second half of the night, reducing rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep, which researchers believe is restorative.

2. Caffeinated beverages: It may seem like a nobrainer to avoid caffeinated beverages, as caffeine is a stimulant that can provide a quick boost of energy.

However, people who avoid caffeine during and after dinner in the hopes of avoiding sleep trouble may not know that even caffeinated beverages consumed in late afternoon can adversely affect their sleep

quality. The NSF notes it takes roughly six hours for half of the caffeine the body consumes to be eliminated. That means half of the caffeine from a coffee consumed around 4 p.m. may still be in the body come 10 p.m. Travelers who typically have trouble falling asleep on the road may want to avoid caffeinated beverages in the afternoon.

3. Soda: Sodas contain caffeine, but people may think choosing caffeine-free sodas can help them sleep better. In fact, the NSF notes that carbonated beverages, including sodas, can trigger a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. GERD can produce a host of negative side effects, including physical discomfort and chronic cough, that can compromise a person’s ability to sleep.

Avoiding carbonated beverages two to three hours before bedtime can reduce the likelihood that GERD symptoms will surface, which should help people achieve a more restful night’s sleep.

So what can travelers drink before going to bed?

While water is always a safe bet, the NSF recommends caffeine-free herbal tee as a relaxing pre-bedtime beverage.

Did you know?

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ccording to the National Sleep Foundation, certain foods may help people fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly while others may compromise a person’s ability to enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

In lieu of white bread, refined pastas and sugar-laden baked goods, all of which can reduce serotonin levels, the NSF recommends whole grains. The buildup of serotonin in the brain during periods of wakefulness can contribute to the onset of sleep later in the day.

If serotonin levels in their brains are disturbed, then people may experience difficulty falling asleep. The NSF also recommends almonds and walnuts, which contain melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate the sleep/wake cycles. In addition, foods that are high in lean protein that contain the amino acid tryptophan also may increase the production of serotonin, potentially contributing to a restful night’s sleep.

The Northern Virginia Daily

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

Does gluten-free benefit everyone?

I

f the number of gluten-free products stocking store shelves and appearing on restaurant menus are any indication, then the general public has embraced gluten-free living. Many people eat gluten-free diets despite not having Celiac disease, which is a condition that requires people to avoid gluten. However, a voluntary gluten censorship may not be all that it’s cracked up to be.

Less than 1 percent of Americans are gluten-intolerant or afflicted with Celiac disease. Despite this, the popularity of gluten-free diets tripled between 2013 and 2014, according to reports from The Kitchn. Although people who are sensitive to gluten may feel better avoiding it, Dr. Daniel A. Leffler, director of clinical research at the Celiac Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, has said others will derive no significant benefit from gluten avoidance and will simply waste money buying the more expensive gluten-free alternatives.

People with perceived gluten sensitives may not have aversions to gluten at all.

According to a study conducted by Monash University and published in 2013, people with self-reported nonceliac gluten sensitivity, gluten only caused negative symptoms when subjects knew they were eating it. When they believe the food to be something else, participants experienced no symptoms.

Other medical experts say that gluten may not be to blame for sensitivity, which may be a result of fermentable, poorly absorbed, short-chain carbohydrates (FODMAPs), like grains, beans, dairy, and some fruits. By removing the grain (gluten included), affected individuals feel better, thinking gluten is to blame.

Those with no reason to avoid gluten could be putting their health at risk by skipping wheat and other grains. A recent study from Harvard Medical School says those who avoid gluten may be harming their heart health. The study, which tracked the eating habits of 64,714 women and 45,303 men over a period of 26 years, found that long-term avoidance of gluten in adults sometimes caused the

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fitness evolution

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$ reduced consumption of heart-healthy whole grains that affect cardiovascular risk. Study leader Andrew Chan said that individuals who consumed the lowest levels of dietary gluten had a 15 percent higher risk of heart disease. The study concluded that the promotion of glutenfree diets among people for whom it is deemed medically unnecessary to avoid gluten should not be encouraged.

There may be other reasons to continue to eat gluten. A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition, titled, “Effects of a gluten-free diet on gut microbiota and immune function in healthy adult human subjects,” found a gluten-free diet may adversely affect gut flora and immune function. This potentially puts people at risk for an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in their intestinal biome. Another study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry found that gluten may boost immune function. After roughly a week on added gluten protein, subjects experienced increased natural killer cell activity, which could be helpful in improving the body’s ability to fight viral infections and cancer.

A gluten-free diet isn’t necessarily a healthy one. While such a diet may be necessary for those with Celiac disease, unless a doctor has determined a person needs to avoid gluten, it is wise to include whole grains in a balanced diet.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Childhood food allergies linked to skin

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ata from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says four out of every 100 children has a food allergy, and such numbers are on the rise. While the mechanisms by which a person develops an allergy to specific foods remain something of a mystery, new research points to the skin as a likely culprit. And certain products that unsuspecting parents use on infants and children may make matters worse.

A study from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine says the factors contributing to food allergy include genetics that alter skin absorbency, skin exposure to allergens in dust, use of infant cleansing wipes that leave soap on the skin, and skin exposure to food from those providing infant care. These factors may be the ideal recipe for a food allergy to emerge. Even if a child has yet to ingest a certain food, it can still enter the body through the skin.

that barrier, explains Joan Cook-Mills, a professor of allergy-immunology who was involved in a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Children with genetic skin-barrier defects also may be vulnerable to food allergies. When touched after an adult or sibling has handled peanut butter, eggs, soy, shellfish, or one of the other common food allergens, such children may experience a reaction.

Adults should wash their hands before picking up or tending to infants and rinse off areas where wipes or other cleansers are used to avoid potential problems with decreasing lipid barriers against allergens.

Baby wipes containing the synthetic cleanser sodium lauryl sulphate may be partially to blame. The top layer of the skin is made of lipids that create a protective barrier against allergens. Soaps and wipes can disrupt

Did you know?

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ut biome, also called microbiome, gut microbiota or gastrointestinal microbiota, is a community of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microscopic things) that reside in the human stomach and intestines.

Many of these microbes live in a portion of the large intestines called the cecum.

In humans, the gut biome has the largest number of bacteria and the greatest number of species compared to other areas of the body. Medical News Today says tens of trillions of microorganisms live in the gut, with at least 1,000 species of bacteria. Twothirds of the gut biome is unique to each individual. Many medical professionals believe that the gut biome is crucial to personal health. Healthline says the microorganisms living there can be extremely important to the immune system, heart health, weight, and many other aspects of healthy living. New research suggests that the gut microbiome may affect the central nervous system and affect brain function. It also controls how the immune system works, communicating with immune cells to fire up the body to

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respond to infection. Gut bacteria are known to aid in the production of certain vitamins, like vitamins B and K, which play a major role in immune function.

Antibiotics can impact the diversity of gut flora and affect the microbiome.

According to the American Society for Microbiology, only one week of antibiotics can change the makeup of the gut microbiota for up to a year.

Therefore, they should be used sparingly and only when medically necessary.

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Breathe easier concerning bad breath

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igging into a bowl of pasta topped with a garlicky scampi sauce certainly may fill the belly, but such a meal also can lead to bad breath. Halitosis, or bad breath, is often the catalyst for jokes. But for many people, bad breath is no laughing matter.

Many things may contribute to bad breath, and some causes may signal serious underlying health conditions.

Strong foods Foods with strong odors, such as onions or garlic, tend to contribute to bad breath. That’s because the foods are initially broken down in the mouth, but then they have to travel through the digestive system until they are passed through the body. These odoriferous foods may leave their mark in the mouth, get carried to the lungs through blood in the circulator system and then be excreted through the pores on the body.

Some may even linger on the skin after washing. Avoiding these types of foods can prevent bad breath, as brushing or rinsing one’s mouth may only temporarily staunch their power.

Poor oral hygiene Food and beverage particles can linger on the teeth and gums if proper dental hygiene is not practiced. The Mayo Clinic says that a colorless, sticky film of bacteria can form from the breaking down of food particles, which can cause tooth decay, periodontal disease and possibly bad breath. Daily brushing and flossing as well as routine dental cleanings are necessary components of proper oral hygiene.

Dehydration Failure to drink enough water can cause food — and the bacteria that feed on it — to stay in the mouth much longer.

Drinking water helps flush away food

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

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Call for consultation 540-450-3223 particles. Similarly, dry mouth can contribute to bad breath. Saliva works all day and night to wash out the mouth. The American Dental Association says inadequate saliva production can cause bacteria to multiply.

Sore throat disease Diseases of the throat, such as strep or tonsillitis, may cause bad breath. The same bacteria that can cause halitosis may also infect the tonsils and throat, causing the foul aromas, advises the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.

Gastrointestinal distress The Journal of Medical Microbiology says that bad breath may originate in the gut. Bad breath may be a symptom of gastrointestinal reflux disease, or GERD, ulcers or other conditions of the stomach and intestines. If persistent bad breath is accompanied by heartburn and stomach pain, it’s worth a consult with a doctor.

Oral infections Surgical wounds from oral procedures like tooth extractions can become infected and produce bad breath. Gum disease and mouth sores also may be to blame. A dentist or doctor can rule out infections as a cause for halitosis.

Tobacco Smokers and oral tobacco users often have bad breath. Quitting smoking or oral tobacco can be an easy way to freshen up one’s breath.

Disease The gases that are excreted through the mouth and causing bad breath may be tied to everything from liver and kidney damage to diabetes to asthma, say researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Bad breath is more than just a nuisance.

In fact, bad breath may indicate the presence of a serious health problem.

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Electronics may have surprising effects on health

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ccording to the latest annual visual networking index forecast from Cisco, there will be four networked devices and connections per person across the globe by 2021. While there is no denying the many positive attributes of electronics and global connectivity, research indicates that some health concerns may be tied to our devices.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified RF fields as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”

Although cancer risk is very low and not undeniably linked to phone use, it is something for people to keep in the back of their minds, and limiting phone use may help reduce risk.

Mobile device use and social media addiction

Cancer from phones

Increased use of technology may be linked to decreases in attention and increases in behavior and self-regulation problems for adolescents already at risk for mental health problems, says a study from Duke University. One hundred fifty-one adolescents were studied using digital technologies for an average of 2.3 hours a day. The researchers found that, The American Cancer Society says RF on days when adolescents used their waves are a form of non-ionizing devices more, both when they exceeded radiation. They are different from the stronger, ionizing types of radiation that their own normal use and when they can affect the chemical structure of DNA exceeded average use by their peers, they were more likely to exhibit conduct in the body. But there is some concern that RF may contribute to the formation problems such as lying and fighting. of cancer in the body. A large study by Also, as published in Psychiatric News, the US National Toxicology Program time spent on multiple social media (NTP) exposed large groups of lab rats outlets is considered a risk factor for and mice to RF energy over their entire mental health problems. Researchers bodies for about nine hours a day, found people who reported using the starting before birth and continuing for greatest number of social media sites up to two years. Results indicated an (seven to 11) had more than three times increased risk of tumors called malignant the risk of depression and anxiety. schwannomas of the heart in male rats Other health concerns exposed to RF radiation.

Neck pain, wrist and elbow strain, eye strain, and other fatigue factors have been linked to computer use.

Smartphones, flip phones and their predecessors give off a form of energy known as radiofrequency, or RF. As the amount of time spent on phones has increased, concerns have been raised as to the possible health ramifications of RF exposure on the body.

A study published in the U.S. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that people using tablets for at least four hours before bedtime took longer to fall asleep than people who hadn’t used them.

And recently, popular exercise tracker FitBit® came under fire when people were shocked while wearing the devices, and these types of trackers may cause people to micromanage their fitness, detracting from the psychological benefits of exercise.

Electronics are important components of daily life. But devices may contribute to serious health problems.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 2018

Platelet power could heal injuries faster

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rofessional athletes have access to various medical experts to keep their bodies in top form.

Should injury arise, doctors and specialists will take innovative steps to get professional athletes back on the field as quickly as possible. One tool in their medical arsenal that has evolved over the last several years is platelet-rich plasma therapy, which is now available to the public.

Platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP, utilizes injections to help the body heal itself naturally. According to Johns Hopkins Medical Center, platelets are cells that circulate within the blood and bind together when they recognize damage. For example, when a person suffers a cut, the platelets bind to the damaged vessel, causing a clot.

However, platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors as well as cytokines, which are very important in the healing of injuries. Doctors have learned that they can use these natural healing cells to do much more in the body, particularly to lessen pain and help the growth of reparative cells that will heal musculoskeletal injuries and soft tissue damage.

While the exact mechanisms are still not precisely known, Columbia Pain Management says PRP contains concentrated growth factors and chemical cell signaling molecules essential for muscle repair. The Brooklyn-based rehabilitation and sports medicine center Physio Logic says it is possible to use PRP and adult stem cells to heal and even regenerate lost, damaged or aging tissue.

The process involves some lab time and an injection. Essentially a sample of a patient’s blood is extracted and placed in a centrifuge. This spins the blood to separate the components, namely red

and white blood cells, platelets and plasma. Through centrifugation, the concentration of platelets can increase by five to 10 times the normal

concentration.

According to data published in Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine, preparations for PRP are not standardized, so the concentration of blood matter may vary depending on the centrifugation process. PRP obtained from apheresis results in a more consistent platelet concentration, typically five times that of whole blood.

Apheresis is a more expensive procedure that requires filtration of blood circulating from patient to machine. The platelet-rich serum is then placed in a syringe and injected directly into the site of injury.

The Hospital for Special Surgery in New York says several clinical studies have demonstrated that PRP injections have improved function and decreased pain in the elbow, wrist, shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle tendonosis. Early work is also showing promise for osteoarthritis. Also, because the injections are formed from the patients’ own blood, there is a minimal risk of side effects. However, it may take a few weeks before patients experience relief.

PRP may be a medicine-free way to treat various musculoskeletal injuries. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests those considering treatment with PRP to check their eligibility with their health insurance carrier, as it is not covered by all plans.

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