UUHC_Winter2014_premiere

WINTER 2014

U TA H ’ S S O U R C E F O R H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Ready, Set, Ski!

8 maneuvers to keep you on the slopes all season long

Feed a Fever?

The truth behind the myth

The Eyes Have It Soothing strategies for dry conditions

ladies first feed

on this!

Find easy tips and fun ideas for a healthier you at healthfeed.uofuhealth.org

Find out how your health compares with other women your age, and what you can do to make it even better

CONTENTS WINTER 2014

: Q

ONE QUESTION

Ladies First Calling all the single ladies—and the marrieds and anyone else with two X chromosomes. You take care of your kids, your spouse, your parents: Now it’s time to take care of you.

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3 ONWARD + UPWARD

Beware the fondue bowl, and get other tips for surviving the season. Plus, how to spot a stroke, when to keep the kids at home, your water needs in winter, and fever myths.

6 READY, SET, SKI!

Whether you’re a rookie or learned to ski before you could walk, these midseason tips should keep you in one piece until spring thaw.

14 AMAZEMENTS

Breakthroughs in eye care through the ages, plus strategies for coping with desert-dry air.

15 SCRUMPTIOUS & IN-SEASON

In Project Parsnip, we bring this mystery vegetable out of the produce bin and into your kitchen.

Start your day with an easy tip, a healthy how-to, or a quick video.

Visit healthfeed.uofuhealth.org

healthcare.utah.edu

“The short answer is, no.

Going out in the cold doesn’t necessarily cause someone to get a cold. You get colds directly from other people who sneeze, cough, or spread it to you. However, if your child’s immune system is already down, there is a chance of getting a cold when they go out and are exposed to someone already with the virus. It’s still important to bundle up when it’s cold outside.”

—Amy Williams, M.D., pediatrician, University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Rebecca Bingham ● EDITORS: Melinda Rogers, Jen Jenkins ● EDITORIAL + PHYSICIAN ADVISERS: Dennis Scott Jolley, Senior Director of Clinical Marketing ● Christopher Nelson, Assistant Vice President of Public Affairs ● Kathy Wilets, Associate Director of Public Affairs ● Michael Bronson, Director, South Jordan Health Center ● Richard R. Orlandi, M.D., Executive Medical Director, South Jordan Health Center ● Susan A. Terry, M.D., Executive Medical Director, Community Clinics

Elevate is published four times annually by University of Utah Health Care. ©2014. Designed and produced by McMurry/ TMG, LLC. Information in Elevate comes from a wide range of medical experts and is not intended for diagnosing or prescribing. Consult your health care provider before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines. Send correspondence and address changes by email: elevate@hsc.utah.edu; mail: Elevate, University of Utah Health Care, Office of Public Affairs and Marketing, 383 Colorow Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108. facebook.com/UofUHealthCare

twitter.com/UofUHealthCare

Cover: Edwards/Getty; Women: Cultura/Alan Graf/Getty; Skis: Laureen Middley/Getty

bookmark it!

UTAH’S SOURCE FOR HEALTHY LIVING

Can my child get sick from playing in the cold?

onward + upward THE UPSIDE

5 CHEERS FOR WINTER! It’s not all long nights and snow. Five surprising health benefits of winter:

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2 3 4

Alison Stieglitz/Getty

Clementines (aka “cuties” or “sweeties”) are just 34 calories each; add a small handful of pistachios or almonds for the perfect snack.

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COLD BURNS CALORIES

In one study, men who were kept in a cold room saw their metabolic rates rise by 80 percent—all because the chilly environment kicked their brown fat, the type of fat inside our bodies that burns energy, into gear.

On average, the brown fat burned 250 calories over three hours.

SEIZE YOUR “C” Just when your immune system could use the extra oomph, Mother Nature (and a great Interstate system) swoops in with an abundance of in-season produce overflowing with vitamin C. Load up on clementines, collard greens, grapefruit, kiwi, and sweet potatoes.

JUST ADD SNOW If you’re usually a walker, up the ante by strapping on snowshoes.

A 150-pound woman will burn 500 calories in 60 minutes. Compare that with 271 calories after an hour of brisk walking, and it’s easy to see why snow season is a fitness fiend’s friend.

YOU FEEL CHATTY The colder it gets, the

more likely you are to have a long phone conversation with a close friend, research has found. And you know how your besties can lift your spirits—even when it’s dreary.

SUPERIOR ZZZs

Research shows that sleeping in a cool room, between 54 and 75 degrees, means better sleep for most people.

Anything warmer or colder, you likely will toss and turn.

PUT DOWN THAT SHOVEL! Find out how to clear a snowy driveway without hurting your back at healthfeed. uofuhealth.org.

winter 2014

3

onward + upward

wintertime tuneup

Don’t let freezing temperatures and slippery sidewalks force you into a flurry of unhealthy habits. Here are six ways to stay fit and healthy this season

DON’T HIBERNATE. “It’s common to slow down in winter,” says A. Michael Henrie, D.O., a sports medicine physician at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center. “It’s difficult to exercise outside when it’s snowing.” Try jumping jacks when you get out of bed and sneak in a few sets while watching TV.

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DRESS THE PART. For those who brave the cold, wardrobe is crucial. “One big mistake people make is to dress too warmly,” Henrie says. “Dress in layers you can remove and put back on as needed.” Choose a synthetic base layer (avoid cotton), go for wool or fleece for your insulating layer, and top it off with a waterproof or wind-resistant layer.

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WIN A MASSAGE!

Visit massage.uofuhealth.org and enter to win a onehour sports massage at the South Jordan Health Center.

Winner will be notified on Feb. 14, 2014.

This one’s no myth: Carrots really do help your eyesight (it’s the beta carotene).

MYTHBUSTER

BEWARE THE FONDUE POT. The number of calories in that cauldron of cheesiness is sobering.

Same goes for marshmallow-dotted hot chocolate. Save them for special occasions.

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STRATEGIZE. You know staying active in winter is tough, so plan ahead. Commit to snowshoeing a few times a week (starlit snowshoe tours!). Or stock up on fitness DVDs at home.

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DITCH THE REMOTE. Ask your pals to step away from the videos and join you for a yoga class.

It’s easier to stick to your workout when others are expecting you.

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TOTE THOSE SHOES. Swap out the cute flats for snow boots until you’re off the icy sidewalk.

A cast isn’t a fashion statement in any season.

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STARVE A FEVER? So the next time you’re under the weather, adopt a new mantra: Eat, drink, sleep, repeat.

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Alexandra Kobalenko/Getty

Feed a fever and starve a cold, right? Survey says: They’re both a bunch of hooey.

“When you look at the research, there’s nothing that supports these claims,” says pediatrician Amy Williams, of the South Jordan Health Center. “The real answer is that if you have a virus, you need to give your body the nutrients it needs to fight it.” That means plenty of fruits and vegetables, and a whole lot of H2O. And it means that you have an excuse to nap. “The biggest thing you can do is rest,” Williams says.

3 SCENARIOS

Should They Stay or Should They Go?

QUARTS That’s the AVERAGE AMOUNT OF WATER YOUR BODY NEEDS EACH DAY, even in winter. Remember, dehydration knows no season, especially when you live in a desert as we do.

Can’t do that much sipping in a day? Broth soups, tomatoes, celery, and oranges can help you get your share.

Send them to school. Don’t send them to school. It’s a constant balancing act between not wanting to overreact and not wanting to get a phone call from the nurse’s office. Here’s when to keep a kid home:

1 The thermometer insists her temperaBE PREPARED:

Thinkstock; Water bottles: UpperCut Images/SuperStock

STROKE SEASON? Winter might be stuck with that nasty label. Studies indicate that stroke deaths increase this time of year, especially among the elderly (two culprits may be an excess of food and a lack of exercise). Beat the odds by ensuring that someone having a stroke receives immediate medical treatment. How? Know the warning signs. It’s as easy as remembering FAST: IT’S AN EMERGENCY! The

emergency department at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center is staffed 24/7 with the Valley’s top physicians, whether it’s a stroke, a burn, or a cough that just won’t stop.

F A S T

FACE DROOPING

ARM WEAKNESS

ture is 101 degrees. "Anything over 100 degrees means she should stay home," says Amy Williams, M.D., a pediatrician at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center.

2 He was sick to his stomach last night, and this morning he doesn’t want breakfast. “If they’re not feeling well and they’re not going to be able to engage in the information shared at school, they should stay home,” Williams says. But “it’s a bit of a gray zone.”

SPEECH DIFFICULTY TIME TO CALL 911.

The sooner treatment starts, the better the outcome.

3

She needs to be quarantined, and you don’t have enough hazmat suits for the entire student body. “Strep throat, pinkeye, diarrhea, flu, and severe colds” are all reasons for her to call in sick to second grade. winter 2014

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SKI SEASON 101

When you live near the greatest skiing on the planet, riding a chairlift is as natural as running to the Kwik–E-Mart. But don’t just pull on your goggles and go. A little prep will keep you active all season long.

BEFORE you get on the slopes ≥ Prep your body. Ideally, you exercise year-

ready, set,

round, but give yourself at least eight weeks of training before your first day and include core work, balance and agility exercises, strength and endurance sessions (especially for your legs), and stretching. “Since most snow sports are inherently unstable, exercises that work the core and develop balance are key,” says K.C. Sato, D.P.T., a physical therapist who specializes in sports orthopedics at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center. “That’s one reason I recommend yoga.”

≥ Prep your gear. Your temperature rises and falls during the day when you’re exercising hard, so invest in layers that allow you to move freely. Take your skis or snowboard in for a tuneup, when technicians will sharpen your edges, check your bindings and wax the bottoms. Finally, inspect your helmet for deterioration and give your boots and poles a once-over to make sure they’re trail-ready.

Christian Aslund/Getty

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“Wrist, elbow, shoulder, and head injuries are the skirelated traumas we see most often,” says emergency medicine physician Christopher A. Gee, M.D. Helmets and wrist guards can minimize the damage.

ON the trails ≥ Stretch it out. Before you leave for the slopes, Sato recommends doing a series of yoga sun salutations to warm up your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. “Then, on the lift or before you take your first run, do some quick visualization techniques while belly breathing,” she says. “This will help connect your mind with your body so you’re more aware of what you’re doing and can avoid injury.” ≥ Pace yourself. Take it slow until your muscle memory kicks

in. “The main thing to help ensure you have a fun, safe day on the slopes is to know your skill level,” says Christopher A. Gee, M.D., an emergency and sports medicine physician with University of Utah Health Care. “People get injured when they go outside their comfort zone.”

≥ Drink up. Although it’s cold out, make sure you stay hydrated, ideally with water. You dehydrate faster at higher altitudes, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and headaches.

APRÈS-SKI

DRINKS Melt those chilly lift-line memories with these toasty beverages: HOT APPLE CIDER Start with apple cider; add a dash of cinnamon, ground cloves, and allspice. Stir in a teaspoon of maple syrup, toss in a few orange slices, then simmer. Tip: Pear slices add fruitier flavor.

MEXICAN HOT CHOCOLATE Mexican chocolate (try ethnic grocers) provides a hit of cinnamon, almonds, and vanilla.

Add chopped chocolate to milk and simmer for 20 minutes.

HOT “NON” TODDY Mix herbal tea with a teaspoon each of honey and lemon juice and a dash of cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg.

“Injuries peak at 1 or 2 in the afternoon,” Gee says. “People are tired and their technique falters.” Take a few post-lunch turns on easier trails before returning to challenging runs.

FROSTBITE

FACTS WHAT IT IS: Frostbite occurs when tissue freezes and potentially dies.

WHERE IT HAPPENS:

Fingers, toes, nose, ears, chin, and cheeks are most at risk.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Numbness, tingling, pain, and color changes (usually from red to white or pale to blue and then black).

WHAT TO DO: Get inside,

warm the area gently, and if symptoms don’t subside within an hour, see a doctor immediately.

WHEN you get home ≥ Soothe your muscles. Some achiness is inevitable, especially if you

haven’t been active in the off-season; it’s a sign that muscles are repairing themselves and getting stronger. Stretching, massage, soaking in a hot tub, and icing tender areas usually alleviate the soreness. “You can still go out the next day. Just take it easy since your technique will probably be worse, which increases your chance of being injured,” Gee says.

≥ Recheck your gear. Hang up your clothes to dry and inspect your equipment for cracks or other problems that could trip you up next time out. ≥ Get your ZZZs. Perhaps most important: Sleep well.

Altitude, dehydration, and alcohol can thwart sound slumber, so limit the partying if you want to be at your best tomorrow.

WIN A FREE SKI PASS!

Go to ski.uofuhealth.org and enter to win a full-day ski pass to Snowbird Ski Resort.

Winners will be notified on Feb. 7, 2014. winter 2014

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cover story

Find out if you’re healthier than your age ≼ By Janet Lee

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elevate

in your

Calling anyone with two X chromosomes! Find out how your health compares with other women your age and what you can do to make it even better.

20s

The big picture You’re

physically at your peak in almost every way; smart habits now lay the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

Health challenges While you’ll never be more fertile than you are now, you may still be dealing with the remnants of puberty, including painful or irregular periods, and even (sorry, girls) acne, says Brandon L. Reynolds, D.O., an obstetrician and gynecologist at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center.

“Get those issues evaluated because they can impact fertility,” he says. Chlamydia and human papillomavirus, or HPV, are common—and dangerous—so always practice safe sex.

“Many young women like to tan, but it damages your skin and speeds the formation of wrinkles,” P. Daniel Ward., M.D., a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon at the South Jordan Health Center, says. “You should wear sunscreen daily, and it’s not too early to consider a Retin-A type product to help ward off wrinkles.”

Good health checklist ~ Monthly breast self-exam ~ Annual pelvic exam with Pap and HPV

tests every three to five years (your doctor will determine how often you need these as well as a screening for sexually transmitted infections) ~ Annual skin check

GET CHECKED Schedule your yearly exam at the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

Words from a 20-something

OJO Images/SuperStock

“I live a pretty healthy lifestyle, but when I found out I was pregnant, I discontinued caffeine, reduced the sugar I eat, and changed to organics. And for the first time, I’m eating breakfast every day. I’m feeling so good, even with this pumpkin under my shirt.” —Susan, 27, West Jordan

winter 2014

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COVER STORY

The big picture

You’re probably juggling family or career demands, or both, which means your needs usually get pushed to the bottom of the list.

Time to prioritize!

Health challenges Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and controlling stress levels can prevent many lifestyle-related diseases that typically get a foothold in your 30s. “You also need to start assessing your cancer risk now and do early screenings, especially if you have a family history of breast or colon cancer,” Reynolds says.

As your fertility slowly declines, the risk for birth defects increases, so speak with your doctor sooner rather than later if you’re thinking of getting pregnant.

Retin-A should be part of your good-skin regimen, Ward says, as well as facials and a twice-yearly chemical or laser peel.

in your

30s

GET CHECKED Schedule your yearly exam at the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

Good health checklist ~ Monthly breast self-exam ~ Annual pelvic exam with Pap and HPV tests every three to five years (your doctor will determine how often you need these as well as a screening for sexually transmitted infections) ~ Annual skin check

Words from a 30-something

“My dad died at a young age, so I really want to take care of myself and my family. I do my best to stay active—my dog, Gino, needs walking, so he keeps me going. He’s also my alarm clock; unfortunately I don’t feel as rested since being pregnant with my first child!”

—Lindsey, 30, Salt Lake City

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You live for sunny powder days and fluffy white snow, but your skin? Not so much. “The sun is your worst enemy,” says P. Daniel Ward, M.D., of University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center. Whenever you’re outdoors, on slope and off, cover your skin as much as possible, he advises.

“The three most important things you can do are wear sunscreen, wear sunscreen, and wear sunscreen!” Ward says. Don’t forget your hands, ears, and lips. Any area that’s exposed can get burned.

Lotion; Lee Nathan/The Noun Proiect

BABY YOUR WINTER SKIN

The big picture Life

in your

40s

starts to take pot shots at your physical health and peace of mind in this decade. Here’s the good news: Regular physical activity releases “happy” hormones.

Health challenges “We see a lot of stress-related disorders like depression and anxiety in this age group,” says Hena Kundra, M.D., an internal medicine physician at the South Jordan Health Center.

“Coping strategies are important, so I encourage patients to meditate, do yoga, and find hobbies that they enjoy.”

Most women enter perimenopause in their 40s. “If your periods get heavier or irregular or you have persistent pain or bloating, definitely see your doctor,” Reynolds says. “We see uterine and ovarian cancer in this age group, so don’t just dismiss it.” Exercise and a good diet are the best things you can do to minimize the effects of perimenopause, Kundra says. They’ll also help you avoid another issue that creeps up now, raising your risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease: metabolic syndrome, a combination of excess weight, especially around the midsecGET CHECKED tion, and high blood sugar, cholesterol and Schedule your blood pressure levels. yearly exam at

Good health checklist ~ Mammogram every one or two years,

the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

plus monthly breast self-exam ~ Annual pelvic exam with Pap and HPV tests every three to five years (your doctor will determine how often you need these as well as a screening for sexually transmitted infections) ~ Annual skin check

Juice Images/SuperStock

Words from a 40-something

“I think my health is better than average for my age. Most of my 40s I’ve felt especially confident, I don’t have many sick days and I don’t stress over the little stuff. I have become more conscious about what I eat and am thinking ahead to hormonal issues and menopause.” —Caren, 49, Taylorsville

And those post-ski hot tub dips? Hot water sucks the oil out of your skin, leaving it extra dry, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Shower or bathe with warm water—keep it quick—then slather on a rich moisturizer immediately after you get out.

Girls’ Night Out University of Utah Health Care wants you to abandon your family (just for an evening!) and attend its second annual Girls’ Night Out. “It’s a fun way to educate people about various health issues and the services we provide,” says Michael Bronson, service director for the South Jordan Health Center, host of the free event.

The evening focuses on six health categories: primary care, cosmetic services, cancer prevention, fitness and nutrition, obstetrics, and gynecology.

You can watch cooking and cosmetic demonstrations; get your running stride or bike fit analyzed; learn about fertility options, depression, and skin cancer; and even get a free vision exam and chair massage. “We’re expecting 500 to 600 people this year,” Bronson says.

“Women love it.”

For more information and to sign up for the Feb. 20 event, go to girlsnightout. uofuhealth.org.

Finally, counteract the Valley’s dry climate by using a humidifier at home. Who knows, you may trick your skin into thinking it’s spring!

winter 2014

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COVER STORY

in your

50s

The big picture Welcome to menopause!

When menstruation stops, a whole new stage of life begins.

LET’S GET PHYSICALS! An annual physical helps your doctor spot potential problems before they get serious. These tests should be part of it: TEST

FREQUENCY

Cholesterol

5 years

Blood pressure

yearly

Thyroid panel

2 years

Immunizations ask your MD

Vitamin D

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yearly yearly

your risk of developing osteoporosis. A bone density scan will let you know where you stand now and help your doctor track changes as you go forward. Hormonal fluctuations can also wreak havoc on your metabolism, leading to weight gain, so it’s more important than ever to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. “We recommend a 3-2-1 plan,” Kundra says. “Do aerobic exercise three times a week, strength training twice a week, and a calming, flexibility-oriented workout like yoga once a week.” Resistance workouts will strengthen bone and build muscle, which can keep your metabolism elevated. The good news: no more periods!

Good health checklist ~ Mammograms every one or two years, plus monthly breast self-exam ~ Annual pelvic exam with Pap and HPV tests every three to five years (your doctor will

determine how often you need these as well as a screening for sexually transmitted infections) ~ Annual skin check ~ Colonoscopy every 10 years starting at 50 ~ Bone density exam every two years after menopause

Words from a 50-something

“I started weight training five years ago and feel less prone to injury and stronger psychologically. I’m happy to be on the other side of menopause.

If I could redo one thing, I’d figure out earlier how to live with less stress in my life and career.” —Leigh, 53, Salt Lake City

GET CHECKED Schedule your yearly exam at the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

Soren Hald/Cultura/Corbis

Glucose + hemoglobin A1c diabetes

Health challenges The end of fertility affects every woman differently, but it always increases

in your

60s

The big picture

You have more time to enjoy life now, especially if you’re retired, but you’ll need to take extra-good care of your heart.

Health challenges “Your arteries get harder and thicker with age, so you really have to watch out for hypertension and heart disease now,” Kundra says.

“I recommend patients keep a blood pressure cuff at home to monitor it monthly.” You know the mantra by now: Exercise and eat a healthy diet.

If you haven’t had recent abnormal Pap smears, you may be able to stop getting those (your doctor will tell you), but you still need an annual exam, Reynolds says.

“Many women in their 60s experience vaginal dryness, thinning, and even prolapse of the uterus or bladder,” he says, referring to when the organ slips from its normal position. “Your doctor can let you know about the latest treatments so you don’t have to suffer.”

Stomach acid decreases as you get older, or if you take a lot of antacids, and this can reduce absorption of vitamin B12, leading to numbness and tingling in the extremities. A deficiency of B12 has also been linked to dementia, so get tested for this important nutrient.

Good health checklist ~ Mammograms every one or two GET CHECKED Schedule your yearly exam at the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

years, plus monthly breast self-exam ~ Annual pelvic exam (with Pap test if advised) ~ Annual skin check ~ Colonoscopy every 10 years ~ Bone density exam every two years ~ Vitamin B12 check

Words from a 60-something

“I’m not as light on my feet as I used to be—recently I fell down some stairs, and it kicked up my lower back pain.

One thing that helps is a massage every two weeks. The therapist has also given me exercises to strengthen my muscles. I’m considering retirement and need to keep moving.” —Linda, 64, West Jordan

BAD AIR DAY?

Before pulling on that fleece and heading out for some winter fun, check to see if the Air Quality Index is compromised, a particular problem due to our Salt Lake City weather and topography. With the University of Utah’s Program for Air Quality, Health, and Society, you can quickly learn about current conditions. VISIT AIRQUALITY.UTAH.GOV/AGP.

The big picture Seventy is the

new 60, especially if you’ve been good to your body over the decades. Massage your brain as reflexes diminish.

Health challenges Heart

in your

attack and stroke prevention are important because of aging arteries. Exercise is crucial, not just for your heart but also to keep you mobile.

Studies have suggested that being active can reduce the years you’re sick or unable to get around toward the end of life (it’s called “compression of morbidity”).

“Your senses and reflexes start to diminish, so we start to see a reduction in driving abilities,” Kundra says. “Cardiovascular disease can also contribute to dementia and memory lapses.” Keep your brain active by learning new things, working puzzles, and staying social. “Falls are another big cause of disability,” she adds. “Your doctor can evaluate your risk of falling and suggest changes at home, such as better lighting and grab bars.”

Falls aren’t merely inconvenient in this age group. A hip fracture increases your risk of premature death for years.

70s + BEYOND

Good health checklist ~ Mammograms every one or two years ~ Annual pelvic exam (with Pap test if advised) ~ Annual skin check ~ Colonoscopy every 10 years ~ Bone density exam every two years ~ Vitamin B12 check ~ Dementia screening

GET CHECKED Schedule your yearly exam at the South Jordan Health Center. Call 801-213-8838.

Words from a 70-something

“I’m attuned to my body and use common sense about health. I get my wellness checkups and colonoscopies. Most days I have good energy, but by evening I do feel tired. One thing I’d do differently in life: Exercise more.” —Joyce, 71, West Jordan winter 2014

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´s have it

the

TS AMAZEMEN

While bionic eyes for the blind are on the horizon, most of us just want to be able to see the alarm clock in the morning. Vision care has a long history; the past decade has exploded with advances.

5th century B.C.

The first cataract surgery, also known as “couching,” is performed in India. It uses a rudimentary needle to push the clouded, diseased lens away from the pupil.

2013

A retinal prosthesis system, aka a “bionic eye,” receives FDA approval. It restores limited vision to people suffering from late-stage retinitis pigmentosa, a disease that leads to blindness.

1284

Corrective eyeglasses, thought to be the first, are made in the Veneto region of Italy.

2006-13

1784 Historians differ over whether

Moran Eye Center is a clinical site for a National Eye Institute Age-Related Eye Disease Study, testing a dietary supplement to halt vision loss in the elderly.

he invented them, but Ben Franklin definitely popularizes bifocals, which allow the wearer to see both up close and far away.

1888 The first contact lenses for 1967

Modern cataract surgery is performed for the first time using a discovery by American doctor Charles Kelman that simplifies the procedure and avoids a large incision. Today, cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgery in the U.S. ”It’s not painful, it’s quick, and it works,” says William R. Barlow, M.D., an ophthalmologist and cataract refractive surgeon at University of Utah Moran Eye Center, who adds that many patients have 20/20 vision the next day.

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1989

The patent for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is granted.

More than 16 million people in the U.S. have had the vision-correction procedure.

2001-05

Mechanized femtosecond lasers are introduced to replace certain manual procedures during LASIK surgery. “Moran purchased these lasers in 2005 to research their effectiveness,” Barlow says. “In addition to LASIK, they also make cataract surgery even more precise.”

It ranges from mild itchiness to painful burning and blurry vision. “Dry eye syndrome is caused by a lack of tears,” says ophthalmologist William R. Barlow.

“The environment, including our arid Salt Lake City climate, can be a trigger, but aging, contact lenses, eye surgery, and medications can also prompt symptoms.”

If you have dry eyes, ask your doctor about treatments. Barlow recommends lubricating drops and artificial tears for mild cases but cautions users to avoid redness-reducing drops because your eyes can become “addicted” to them, resulting in the possibility of long-term damage. Chronic dry eye may warrant prescription eyedrops or a punctual plug, which keeps tears on the eyes’ surface longer.

EYEDROPS FOR FREE

Pick up a free sample of lubricating eyedrops (while supplies last) at University of Utah Moran Eye Center at the South Jordan Health Center, 5126 W. Daybreak Pkwy., South Jordan, UT, 84095.

(Monday through Friday 8 a.m.—5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.—noon)

Eye: Christian Tabacco/The Noun Project; 1284: Bettmann/Corbis; 1989: Getty

corrective vision are created by German ophthalmologist Adolf Fick, with the help of brave volunteers.

Dry Eye Rx

SCRUMPTIOUS + IN-SEASON

Project Parsnip Boiled, baked, fried, steamed, roasted, mashed, and puréed, this winter veg is a revelation

BRIGHT VEGGIES GET ALL THE BUZZ, but this unobtrusive beige

root packs a nutritional wallop. A member of the carrot family, parsnips resemble their brethren in shape only; their sweet, nutty flavor pairs well with spicier roots like turnips as well as all types of meat. “Parsnips are starchy, and starches often get a bad rap, but they’re a good source of vitamin C and potassium and are also loaded with fiber,” says Jamie N. Saunders, R.D., a clinical dietitian at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center. “Fiber helps increase satiety”—you’ll feel full!—“and helps reduce cholesterol levels, and there’s evidence that potassium can help lower blood pressure, which lessens your risk of stroke and heart disease.

“Look for parsnips that aren’t too big [they can get woody] and that have smooth, intact skin,” Saunders says.

“That’s where a lot of the nutrients are, so try to keep the skin on when you cook.” This recipe is perfect for a winter night.

CREAMY PARSNIP SOUP MAKE IT HEALTHIER: Cook the leeks in extra-virgin olive oil. Use a half-cup of fatfree evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

2 Tbsp. butter 1½ c. sliced leeks (white parts only, thoroughly cleaned) 1 lb. parsnips, scrubbed and cut into large chunks (peel if you prefer) 2 apples, peeled and cut into large chunks

Serves four | 350 calories per 12 oz. serving

1 medium potato cut into large chunks 1 can (14.5 oz.) reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth ½ c. heavy cream Salt and pepper to taste 1 bunch parsley for garnish

MAKE IT HEALTHIEST: Use a nonstick pot (no need for butter or oil).

Replace the spud with a sweet potato.

Master That Menu Need help getting your nutrition on track? Schedule a free consultation with Jamie Saunders, R.D., clinical dietitian, at 801-213-5277.

Melt butter in medium saucepan over medium heat, then add leeks and cook for 5 minutes until they start to sizzle but not brown.

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Add parsnip, apple, and potato chunks, broth, and 4 cups water. Bring to a boil and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.

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Use an immersion blender to purée mixture, or carefully purée in a blender, 2 cups at a time. Return to pot, stir in cream, salt, and pepper, then add chopped parsley as garnish.

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winter 2014

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Nonprofit Org US Postage

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Columbus WI Permit No. 62

University of Utah Health Care Office of Public Affairs & Marketing 383 Colorow Dr., 3rd Floor Salt Lake City, UT 84108

Welcome to the premier issue of Elevate.

We live in one of the most health-conscious parts of the country, and our goal is to make a good thing even better.

We’ll help you navigate every stage of life, whether you’re in the middle of your own baby boom, are coping with the temperaments of teen years, or are helping an elderly parent stay active and engaged. Just as our title says, we want to help you achieve a new personal best, ready to tackle whatever lies ahead. Let’s go!

Come by today

Get a Taste of Health

The staff at University of Utah Health Care’s South Jordan Health Center is here for you, whether you’re dealing with a big medical issue (did you actually feel a lump?) or small (dry winter skin is driving you crazy).

For a daily dose of wellness tips, creative recipes, and ideas for making your home a healthier place to be, visit healthfeed.uofuhealth.org

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Here’s how phone 801-213-8838 to reach us: online southjordan.uofuhealth.org

in person 5126 W. Daybreak Pkwy., South Jordan, UT 84095

featuring Self-check-in kiosks Most insurance plans accepted

Extended hours for primary care M—F, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sat., 8 a.m. to noon

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