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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH — November 17, 2016

A Special Advertising Section November 17, 2016

focusing on

Diabetes and Weight Management

Your life matters get to know diabetes and its impact on your health and your family

nyone can be diagnosed with diabetes — no matter your age, race, or ethnicity.

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that causes the body to be unable to produce any or enough insulin, resulting in elevated levels of glucose in the blood. More than 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, but one out of four of them don’t know they have it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States; most of those cases are a result of poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Typical symptoms may include chronic fatigue, excessive thirst, increased urination, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss and slow-healing infections,” says Linda Ly, M.D., a physician specializing in family medicine. “Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a physician.” Dr. Ly says that diabetes symptoms may develop so gradually they may, at first, be hard to identify. “Diabetes is sometimes called a ‘silent disease’ because in the early stages, symptoms may be dis-

Eating right

tasty options

healthy food choices that are tasty and pack a punch

what’s on the plate matters See Inside

missed as unimportant,” she adds. Characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the bloodstream, unmanaged diabetes can lead to serious health complications including diseases of the eyes, kidneys and coronary arteries. “Type 1 diabetes is the inability of the pancreas to produce insulin. This most often occurs in childhood and young adulthood,” Dr. Ly says. “With type 2 diabetes, which usually occurs at a more mature age, the pancreas is initially able to produce insulin, but the body doesn’t use it properly.” Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include obesity, a family history of diabetes, advancing age and if you’re African-American or Hispanic. Treatment usually involves weight loss, exercise and doctor-monitored medication. “If you feel you’re at risk, see your doctor. Left untreated, diabetes can have devastating physical and emoContinued on page S-3

BE in thE know Managing prediabetes or diabetes See Inside

See Inside

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Your life matters

Continued from page S-1

tional consequences,” concludes Dr. Ly. Now during Diabetes Awareness Month, as we approach the holiday season, with all the overeating that comes with this time of year, it’s more important than ever to promote healthy habits and wellness. So just what exactly should you be aware of? Like most people who have read, heard, seen or otherwise been exposed to information regarding what some health professionals are calling a national epidemic, you may be wondering why we need to raise our awareness about a disease that has already received so much attention. If that’s the case, consider this: √ The number of people living with diabetes is expected to grow. √ Add to those numbers the 79 million people who, according to the American Diabetes Association, have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes (the most common form). Along with those numbers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that approximately seven million people in this country have undiagnosed diabetes. That gives us an idea of scope. Regarding health issues this large segment of our population faces, it’s important to keep in mind that diabetes is an insidious disease process that can cause severe visual impairments, limit a person’s ability to walk and can cause a person to lapse into a coma. And that’s just the beginning. Type 2 diabetes is also strongly associated with a significantly higher risk for heart attack and stroke, kidney failure and amputations — about half of which are related to diabetes. The point is, we all know something, in varying degrees, about diabetes, but given the effect it has on individuals, families and our public health, awareness of diabetes is modest at best when compared to its overall negative impact. So what can you do? When it comes to diabetes, know where you stand. If you have not been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the single most important thing you can do is to know whether or not you have it. The place to begin is with symptoms. For example, if you experience severe increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger or tingling in your hands or feet you should talk to your doctor about a screening. For millions of people, however, there may be no warning signs. Because type 2 diabetes may be asymptomatic, it’s important to also know the risk factors. One of the most important is genetics. If you have a family history of diabetes — a mother, father, brother or sister — you are at greater risk. Other risk factors include: √ Overweight — generally a body mass index (BMI) over 25 √ Older than 45 — type 2 diabetes risk increases as you age √ Race and ethnic background — the disease risk is higher for Hispanics, African Americans, Native Americans and Asians √ Hypertension — high blood pressure √ A history of gestational diabetes A person with some or all of these risk factors may never develop type 2 diabetes. The latest medical findings show, however, that the chances of getting the disease increase with the more health risk factors you have. And equally important, know what you can do. There are some risk factors that you can’t control. But fortunately you are in control to a higher degree

Be in the know Managing prediabetes or diabetes

Eating a healthy diet and practicing portion control are key to living well with diabetes. than you might imagine. A large recent study carried out by the National Institutes of Health identified five key lifestyle changes that reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes. Interestingly enough, making just one of these changes can cut your chances of developing the disease by approximately one-third while making all five behavioral changes may reduce risk by up to 80 percent — even for people with a family history. Take a look: Lose weight. The more fatty tissue you have, the more difficult it is for your body to make and use insulin efficiently. And of course, every pound you lose benefits your health in other ways, too. Exercise more to lose weight lower your blood sugar and boost insulin sensitivity. Try for 20 minutes a day and include both aerobic and resistance exercises. Get more fiber and whole grains into your diet (though fewer grains overall). Both help improve blood sugar levels and reduce risk — and cut back (way back) on snacks and sweets. For a lot more reasons than diabetes, don’t smoke. Studies show that people who smoke one pack of cigarettes a day double their risk of developing type 2 diabetes when compared with non-smokers. Stick to no more than one drink a day if you’re a woman and two max if you’re a man. Additional amounts of alcohol can cause chronic inflammation of the pancreas which impairs its ability to secrete insulin. Keep these risk factors and risk-reducing behaviors in mind every day. And even if you already have all the “awareness” you think you need, share the information with people around you.

Diabetes and its precursor is also good to limit your sodium a major problem, both in the intake and resist fatty meats like United States and across the beef and pork. globe. In 2015, a study pubDocument your eating lished in the Journal of the habits. The AHA recommends American Medical Association that people with prediabetes or revealed that nearly 50 percent diabetes maintain a food log to of adults living in the United see how certain foods affect States have diabetes or prediatheir blood glucose levels. Withbetes, a condition marked by in 60 to 90 minutes of eating, higher than normal blood glucheck your blood glucose levels cose levels that are to see how your not yet high body reacts to the Diabetes enough to be foods you eat. As diagnosed as diayour food log by the betes. becomes more numbers Preventing diaextensive, you will betes should be a begin to see which 29.1 million US priority for men, foods match up adults have diabetes women and chilwell with your — and 1 out of 4 of dren, but managebody and which them don’t know ment must take foods you may they have it. precedence for the want to avoid. At least 1 out of 3 Plan your millions of people people will develop meals. Hectic who have already diabetes in their schedules have been diagnosed lifetime. derailed many a with prediabetes Medical costs for healthy lifestyle, but or diabetes. people with diabetes people who have According to the are twice as high as been diagnosed American Heart for people without with prediabetes or Association, makdiabetes. diabetes do not ing healthy food Risk of death for have the luxury of choices is an adults with diabetes straying from essential step in is 50 percent higher healthy diets. Plan preventing or than for adults your meals in managing diabewithout diabetes. advance so your tes. Making those eating schedule is choices can be difnot erratic and your ficult for those diet includes the right foods, and people who have never before not just the most convenient paid much attention to their foods. Bring lunch and a healthy diets, but the AHA offers the following advice to people dealing snack to work with you each day rather than relying on fast food with prediabetes or diabetes. or other potentially unhealthy Limit foods that may worsen your condition. Some foods, options in the vicinity of your office. including fiber-rich whole Embrace alternative ingregrains and fish like salmon that dients. Upon being diagnosed are high in omega-3 fatty acids, with prediabetes or diabetes, can help people with prediabemany people assume they must tes or diabetes. But many more abandon their favorite foods. foods must be limited, if not But that’s not necessarily true. largely ignored. Limit your conMany dishes can be prepared sumption of sweets and added with alternative ingredients that sugars, which can be found in soda, candy, cakes, and jellies. It’s are diabetes-friendly.

• • • •

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH — November 17, 2016

Get to know diabetes and its impact on your health and your family

Hy p n o s i s Can Help!

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Eating right

Healthy food choices that are tasty and pack a punch

Terry Biener, CCH

Certified Clinical Hypnotist in practice since 1992

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What makes a food “super”? When it comes to diabetes, it’s not just about foods that are loaded with nutrients. For a diabetesfriendly diet, you also need foods that will help keep your blood sugar levels in check. All of these foods provide key nutrients that are lacking in the typical western diet, such as calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamins A (as carotenoids), C, and E. Once you get the hang of eating a healthy diet, you can relax and dig in to a wide variety of tasty meals and snacks. Superpower your diet foods that mesh with your diabetic meal plan As with all foods, you need to work the diabetes superfoods into your individualized meal plan in appropriate portions. Legumes for Fiber High in fiber and protein, beans digest slowly in your body, making them great for managing blood glucose levels. Just half a cup of any type of beans will provide about a quarter of your daily requirement of fiber and as much protein as an ounce of meat. Other legumes have a similar effect. In a study published in 2012 in JAMA, Canadian researchers linked eating beans, chickpeas, and lentils with improved blood glucose control and reduced blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides (blood fat) levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Another bonus? Beans are good sources of magnesium and potassium. Salmon for Omega-3 Fatty Acids Many types of seafood are good for people with diabetes. Salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines and bluefish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health by lowering blood fats called triglycerides. Just be sure to avoid fried fish and fish with high levels of mercury, such as tilefish, swordfish, and king mackerel. Eating fish twice a week, which is recommended by the American Heart Association, has other far-reaching benefits: A British study published in 2008 in the American Journal of Kidney Disease found that it may protect people with diabetes against kidney problems.

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November 17, 2016 — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH

Tree Nuts for Healthy Fats Loaded with fiber and protein, nuts are very filling and contain high levels of unsaturated fats, the kind that contribute to “good” cholesterol. But when it comes to stabilizing blood sugar, tree nuts — such as almonds, cashews, hazel-

nuts, pecans, walnuts, and pistachios — may hold the biggest benefits. (Peanuts aren’t tree nuts; they’re legumes.) Canadian researchers looked at data from 12 clinical trials and found that eating two servings of tree nuts a day lowered and stabilized blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Blueberries for Antioxidants While all berries contain good levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, blueberries may be the most beneficial for people who have, or at risk for, type 2 diabetes. In a 2013 study, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health found that people who ate at least three servings of blueberries (as well as grapes and apples) per week reduced their risk for type 2 diabetes by as much as 26 percent in comparison to those who ate less than one serving per month. Broccoli for Vitamins A and C Research published in 2013 in the American Journal of Nutrition shows that a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli may help reduce the risk of cancer. Loaded with antioxidants, broccoli is also high in vitamins A and C. Plus, as a good source of fiber, broccoli is very filling — a plus for people who are trying to lose weight and control diabetes. Sweet Potatoes for Fiber When it comes to diabetes-friendly foods, not all potatoes are created equal. To keep your blood sugar levels in check, it’s best to reach for sweet potatoes, which are high in fiber and vitamins. When boiled, they are a low glycemic index (GI) food, meaning they won’t spike your blood sugar as much as regular potatoes. Spinach and Kale for Antioxidants According to a 2010 study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), eating a cup and a half of dark leafy greens, including spinach, each day can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 14 percent. Though the reason is unclear, it may be that leafy greens have a protective effect because they contain antioxidants like vitamins A and C. Leafy greens are also low in calories and carbohydrates, which is ideal for folks with diabetes. Oatmeal for Blood Sugar Control Eating whole grains like oatmeal may Continued on page S-5

What’s on the plate matters

When you have diabetes, eating well takes practice and planning. A good balance of the right foods, along with regular exercise and your prescribed medications, can help you feel better and stay healthier. Create your plate Often, when people are diagnosed with diabetes, they don’t know where to begin. One way is to change the amount of food you are already eating. Focus on filling your plate with non-starchy vegetables and having smaller portions of starchy foods and meats. Creating your plate is an easy way to get started with managing blood glucose levels. Try these six simple steps to get started: 1. Using your dinner plate, put a line down the middle of the plate. Then on one side, cut it again so you will have three sections on your plate. 2. Fill the largest section with non-starchy vegetables such as: √ Spinach, carrots, lettuce, greens, cabbage, bok choy √ Green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes √ Vegetable juice, salsa, onion, cucumber, beets, okra √ Mushrooms, peppers, turnip 3. Now in one of the small sections, put starchy foods such as: √ Whole grain breads, such as whole wheat or rye √ Rice, pasta, dal, tortillas √ Cooked beans and peas, such as pinto beans or black-eyed peas √ Potatoes, green peas, corn, lima beans, sweet potatoes, winter squash

Since diabetes is a disorder in how the body processes foods, every choice you make to eat or drink is important. The benefits of eating well are powerful. √ Low-fat crackers and snack chips, pretzels and fatfree popcorn 4. And then on the other small section, put your protein such as: √ Chicken or turkey without the skin √ Fish — such as tuna, salmon, cod or catfish √ Other seafood — such as shrimp, clams, oysters, crab or mussels √ Lean cuts of beef and pork such as sirloin or pork loin √ Tofu, eggs, low-fat cheese 5. Add a piece of fruit or a 1/2 cup fruit salad and you have your meal planned. Examples are fresh, frozen, or canned in juice or frozen in light syrup or fresh fruit. Courtesy American Diabetes Association

Eating right Continued from page S-4

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH — November 17, 2016

Tasty options

decrease the risk of developing prediabetes. In a Swedish study published in 2012 in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people who consumed more than 59 grams (roughly 2 ounces) of whole grains per day were 27 percent less likely to develop prediabetes than people who ate 30 grams or less. Eating fiber-rich oats for breakfast can help keep your blood glucose levels under control throughout the day. For the healthiest options, choose steel-cut or oldfashioned oats with no added sodium, sugar, or preservatives. For a creamier texture, cook them in low-fat milk. Add toppings like berries, seeds, and nuts for a flavorful, filling breakfast. Tomatoes for Lycopene Nothing beats biting into a ripe, juicy tomato – and luckily, folks with diabetes don’t have to give them up. In fact, tomatoes are ideal for a diabetes diet. This superfood helps lower blood pressure and HDL (bad) cholesterol, which may lessen the risk for heart disease — a threat to people with diabetes. A 2013 report by researchers at Tufts and Boston University found that lycopene, a key nutrient in toma-

toes, can reduce the risk of heart disease by 26 percent. Greek Yogurt for Protein Creamy and delicious, yogurt is a rich source of calcium, protein, and magnesium. It can also deliver valuable probiotics, which, according to a 2014 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, can help reduce the risk of weight gain and obesity, as well as cardiovascular disease. Opt for Greek yogurt, which is higher in protein than regular yogurt. It helps keep you fuller longer. Avocados for Healthy Fats Known for their heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados top the charts in terms of health benefits. According to a review published in 2013 in Food, Science, and Nutrition, avocados can help lower cholesterol, promote normal blood pressure and reduce inflammation, thanks to their high fiber content, potassium, and lutein. One serving of avocado — onefifth (approximately 1.5 ounces) of a medium-sized avocado — has 64 calories and contributes nearly 20 vitamins and minerals.

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November 17, 2016 — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH

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Comfort Keepers: Expanding to your community

Autism? AHA Can Help

ach of us knows someone affected by autism. The Centre for Disease Control estimates the prevalence of autism in the United States today at 1 in 68 births, across all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. It is described as the fastest-growing developmental disability. Autism is an umbrella term for a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. These challenges also have a tremendous impact on the individuals affected, their families and the professionals who serve them. Yet it is important to know that when someone is impacted by autism, they are not alone. There are many national and local organizations ready to help and The Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Association [AHA] is one of them. Founded in 1988, AHA is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the autism community, and has grown their services to reach nearly 10,000 people annually. Headquartered on Long Island, with a satellite office in New York City, AHA’s services include one-to-one phone and e-support, more than a dozen free monthly support meetings, a biweekly AHA eNewsletter, renowned biannual education conferences, a biannual print publication, as well as expert guidance in the

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areas of professional referrals, advocacy, employment, lifestyle issues, housing and much more. And due to efficient administrative practices, 90 percent of every dollar donated to AHA goes directly to providing and expanding AHA’s services. While the challenges of autism are daunting, there are many advances being made to help individuals on the spectrum, their families and the professionals who serve them. Remember: when it is autism, AHA can help.

omfort Keepers is owned by Oceanside resident Judy Geier. Comfort Keepers is a worldwide franchise servicing Nassau County and surrounding areas. Its main goal is enabling independent living at home with respect and dignity. Comfort Keepers aims to keep seniors in their own homes while providing non-medical care and companionship. Although elders are the main focus, all adults are serviced, including pregnant women. The many services provided by Comfort Keepers include conversation, companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errand services, grocery shopping, respite or relief for the family, medication reminders, grooming and dressing guidance, incidental transportation, laundry and linen washing, recreational activities and crafts, mail assistance and organization, periodic review and communication, and emergency monitor systems. Caregivers are certified by The Alzheimer’s Association of Long Island. Each caregiver is equipped to meet the needs of any and all patients. All have cars and have been subject to criminal and DMV background checks. In addition, all employees are bonded and insured.

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Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

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Gurwin: More than just a skilled nursing facility

Mercy’s new Sleep Center offers latest technology

ong Islanders know Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack as a premier skilled nursing facility, offering a home for residents in need of round-the-clock nursing care as well as those requiring short-term rehabilitation after a hospital stay or surgery. But, many do not know the expanse of services offered by Gurwin: In the 460-bed facility, residents with a wide range of specialized needs are accommodated, such as those requiring ventilator care, palliative and hospice care and memory care. The facility supports patient health and quality of life by offering an on-site clinic with dental operatory, ophthalmology suite, surgical suites and x-ray; staff physicians and social workers; an on-site pharmacy; and an awardwinning therapeutic recreation calendar. Outreach programs include two homecare programs offering skilled services as well as home health aides and companions; an adult day health program offering rehabilitation, nursing care and socialization six days a week to those able to remain in the community with this support; and an on-site dialysis center, serving both participants in Gurwin programs as well as members of the local community. A 201-apartment assisted living community, The Gurwin Jewish — Fay J. Lindner Residences, shares the 67-acre campus, providing an elegant, supportive living option for seniors. Final-

ly, plans and marketing are currently underway for the final piece to the Gurwin continuum of care: Fountaingate Gardens, an independent living community for active seniors that will complete a Continuing Care Retirement Community on the Gurwin campus.

ver feel sleepy while driving? Does your leg twitch at night? These may be signs of a sleep disorder that could affect your health. These disorders can include conditions such as snoring and insomnia and potentially serious disorders such as sleep apnea and even restless leg syndrome. Both men and women who have a sleep disorder often wake up not feeling refreshed and may experience daytime drowsiness or suffer from “brain fog,” or confusion. Sleep disorders that go undiagnosed can cause problems with an individual’s daily routine. People with obstructive sleep apnea actually stop breathing for short periods of time and are likely to experience a wide range of health issues. To address these issues Mercy Medical Center opened its Center for Sleep Medicine. This program offers the latest technology in a comfortable, contemporary setting. Expert, board certified sleep physicians will diagnose and treat sleep disorders, with certified technologists monitoring patients’ sleep cycle during overnight sleep study tests in a hotel-like environment. Sleep tests at Mercy can be scheduled

quickly and conveniently. The suites are equipped with queen-size beds, private baths, flat-screen TVs and sophisticated monitoring equipment. For more information, please call 516-62-MERCY.

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Mercy Medical Center, Rockville Centre 516-62-MERCY • www.MercyMedicalCenter.info

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH — November 17, 2016

Winthrop-University Hospital’s Diabetes Center:

Providing a comprehensive, personalized program for optimal care

ccording to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 10 percent of all Americans have diabetes and the number continues to grow. Additionally, with all the new information and treatment options available, diabetes care is getting more complex. That is why it is vital for patients to be diagnosed and treated by medical professionals who understand the many complexities of the condition. Winthrop-University Hospital has a dedicated Diabetes Institute with services for both adult and pediatric patients with Type 1, Type 2, and pre-diabetes, and for pregnant women with gestational diabetes. Winthrop’s program has earned high national accolades. In fact, Winthrop was the first major teaching hospital in New York State to earn the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Inpatient Diabetes care. Patient care is closely coordinated by a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and other healthcare professionals who help patients throughout the full process from prevention, diagnosis, and management. In addition to outstanding medical care, an important aspect of diabetes management is education. Winthrop’s Diabetes

Education Center consists of a team of registered nurses and dieticians who are certified by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators. With a long history in providing valuable educational tools to the community, the Diabetes Education Center at Winthrop was the first diabetes education program in New York State and the first to be accredited by the American Diabetes Association. More than simply providing information, the Center provides the knowledge, skills and tools that people living with diabetes or pre-diabetes need in order to manage this chronic condition and avoid associated complications. The Center even offers stand-alone classes that can sometimes even help patients prevent the onset of diabetes. The Center works closely with patients, and their physicians, to put together a tailored self-management plan. Having a personalized plan is very important in diabetes management as each individual has different needs based on a variety of criteria including age, daily schedule and activities, eating habits and other health conditions. The Diabetes Education Center also offers other classes, which include person-

alized nutrition counseling, diabetes selfmanagement refresher courses, technology and diabetes and insulin pump training. Having an innovative, comprehensive, disease-specific program allows Winthrop to provide the highest level of care to all patients. For more information about the vast services of Winthrop’s Diabetes Insti-

tute, call 1-866-WINTHROP or visit www. winthrop.org. Winthrop-University Hospital 259 First St., Mineola 1-866-WINTHROP www.winthrop.org.

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

Hypnosis evolves with technology

ith 20 years behind her as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Terry Biener, CCH, believes that the key to a successful result is knowing what to say, how to say it, and which techniques to apply once a person is hypnotized. This wisdom can only come from extensive training and experience. “Everyone processes information differently,” said Biener. “There are reasons why a habit or fear has formed, which should be examined before effective treatment can take place.” A thorough intake session is done first. The number of hypnosis sessions recommended varies. Hypnosis sessions are tailored to the person’s triggers and habits. Motivation and willingness to work with suggestions on a conscious level are important. Trust and rapport with the hypnotist is vital too. Biener has recently added Computerized Client-Based Weight Loss to her repertoire. A sophisticated computer program is used to pinpoint personality, mental processing, strengths and weaknesses. Combined with data gathered from the client, she custom designs hypnosis sessions to zero in on imprints that need to be changed. Weight loss workshops, which include group hypnosis, will be offered in the future. Biener’s true passion is helping people with fears and panic. Having experienced phobias and panic attacks herself, which were ultimately healed through hypnosis, her understanding and empathy is profound. By combining Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques with hypnosis, she can eliminate or reduce unwanted and sometimes devastat-

ing anxiety. “People should realize they aren’t alone. Phobias can seem irrational since they come from the subconscious—the part of the mind that responds without logic. Most people who have never experienced a phobia simply don’t understand.” Understanding how hypnosis works before trying it is advised. “Ignore what you’ve seen in movies or on stage. A hypnotic trance is actually a natural state we visit frequently; when we’re engrossed a movie, or if we daydream while driving and don’t remember passing certain streets or exits. A hypnotist induces a trance to “reframe” the subconscious part of the mind. A good subject is strong-willed and intelligent. The person being hypnotized never loses control.” Hypnosis can help with trauma, sports, procrastination, self-esteem, stress, anxiety and most habits. As a former New York City teacher, Biener is comfortable working with children. She holds numerous certifications though the American Board of Hypnotherapy and the National Guild of Hypnotists. She has done speaking engagements and group hypnosis sessions for organizations and wellness centers. Clients are seen by appointment only. Phone consultations are free and confidential. Easy Changes Hypnosis is located in Valley Stream. Contact Terry Biener, CCH, at 516791-6174 or visit www.easychanges.com. Terry Biener, CCH • 516-791-6174 www.easychanges.com

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

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Healthier festivities Managing diabetes during the holiday season

The holiday season is synonymous with many things, including food. Family gatherings and holiday office parties wouldn’t be the same without great food. Food plays such a significant role during the holiday season that many people are worried about overindulging. Some celebrants can afford to overindulge, while others must resist temptation. Diabetics fall into the latter category, as the festive mood of the season does not mean people with diabetes can throw dietary caution to the wind. With the holiday season upon us, diabetics can heed the following tips from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help them stay on a healthy track. Stick to your normal routine. While the holiday season can be unpredictable, the CDC advises diabetics stick to their normal routines as closely as possible. Because holiday guests cannot control food served to them at family gatherings or parties, the CDC recommends diabetics offer to bring a healthy, diabetic-friendly dish along to any parties. In addition, don’t skip meals during the day in anticipation of a large holiday meal. Doing so makes it hard to control blood sugar levels. Be extra careful with alcohol. Alcohol is served or readily available at many holiday gatherings, and many people overindulge because of the festive mood of the season. Overindulging in alcohol is dangerous for anyone, but diabetics must be especially

mindful of their alcohol consumption. Alcohol can lower blood sugar and interact with diabetes medicines. Diabetics who want to enjoy a holiday libation should keep their alcohol consumption to a minimum. Eat slowly. Eating slowly can benefit anyone, during the holiday season, and year round. Eating at a leisurely pace your brainsample time to signal that your body is full. By eating quickly, you may be eating more calories than they hoped to eat, and that can lead to uncomfortable feelings of fullness after a meal. Diabetics who can slow down their eating are less likely to overindulge in less healthy holiday foods that can affect their blood sugar levels. Remain active. The holiday season can be hectic, as we often must juggle extraordinarily busy social schedules with the responsibilities of everyday life. Many people sacrifice time at the gym to ease the burden of hectic holiday schedules, but diabetics must resist that temptation. Medical experts stress that routine physical activity helps diabetics keep their blood glucose levels in their target range. Physical activity also helps the hormone insulin absorb glucose into all of the body’s cells for energy. That extra energy boost can help diabetics fend off holiday-related fatigue.

HEALTH HEALTH MEMO

Weight loss surgery patient sheds pounds and his diabetes

ngelo C. of East Northport once tipped the scales at an unhealthy 360 pounds.Today, after having gastric sleeve weight loss surgery performed by Rajeev Vohra, M.D., FACS, director of the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at South Nassau’s Center for Digestive Disorders and Metabolic Disease, Angelo is a model of health. Weighing in at a svelte 162 pounds, Angelo’s type 2 diabetes is in remission, and he no longer suffers from sleep apnea or takes medications for high cholesterol and gout. “South Nassau and Dr. Vohra treated me like the president,” Angelo beams. Angelo’s outcome corroborates numerous studies that show that type 2 diabetes patients who have bariatric surgery are associated with a greater rate of diabetes remission and other chronic diseases associated with obesity. Under the direction of Dr. Vohra, the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at South Nassau’s Center for Digestive Disorders and Metabolic Disease is one of the area’s most experienced at performing the range of weight-loss surgery techniques. As part of the hospital’s Center for Digestive Disorders and Metabolic Disease, the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute has successfully performed over 4,500 weight loss surgeries, including sleeve gastrectomy, LAP-BAND®, ORBERA® gastric balloon, gastric bypass and revisional surgeries. All of the surgeries are performed laparoscopically, which is less invasive and typically reduces

Angelo C. of East Northport lost 190 pounds after sleeve gastrectomy surgery, and no longer needs medications for high cholesterol, gout and type 2 diabetes.

the patient’s length of hospital stay. Dr. Vohra is complemented by a team composed of highly trained surgeons, a program coordinator, patient liaison, physician assistant, registered dietitian and psychologist who are there to support the patient throughout his or her weight loss journey. The team empowers patients to make significant changes in their lifestyle —especially in their eating habits. South Nassau Communities Hospital is accredited as a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. For more information about weight loss surgery or to reserve a seat at one of our upcoming free seminars, call 516-374-8631 or go to SouthNassau.org/Bariatrics. South Nassau Communities Hospital, Oceanside • 516-632-3350

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

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November 17, 2016 — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - GOOD HEALTH

Avoiding low blood glucose during exercise Exercise, along with diet and medication, is key to lowering your blood glucose levels. But what happens if, after starting an exercise program, you think that your blood glucose levels are dropping too low (hypoglycemia)? What should you do? Hypoglycemia is not defined by a particular blood glucose level alone, but usually occurs at glucose levels below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and is often accompanied by symptoms that include sweating, tremors, nausea or weakness. Because people with diabetes are prone to having their blood sugar drop during exercise, a good basic guideline is to make sure your glucose level is at least 100 mg/dL before you begin an exercise session to give you some margin for safety. Be aware that when you exercise, it can be hard to tell if your glucose level is low. That’s because many symptoms of low blood glucose, such as fatigue and sweating, overlap with the changes people ordinarily experience when exercising vigorously. If you think that your blood glucose may be too low during or after exercise, check it with a blood glucose meter to determine whether it really is low. Low blood glucose levels may cause you to experience other symptoms, such as shaking and hunger, which you usually don’t experience just by exercising. Is hypoglycemia a risk? The risk depends on the person. In general,

light exercise for less than 10 minutes is probably not going to affect your blood glucose levels very much. After moderate or strenuous exercise, however, your blood glucose levels can be expected to drop. Testing before, during and after exercise will tell you how much it drops and whether it drops to unsafe levels. Before you begin an exercise program, consult your primary care provider and others on your health care team. They can help you develop an appropriate exercise program. They also can help you determine the best time to exercise and how to avoid hypoglycemia. For example, if you use insulin, you may not want to schedule exercise when your insulin level peaks. Because peaks of insulin lower your glucose levels, adding exercise during this time could bring blood glucose down even more and cause it to go too low. If you’re on oral medications, think about the timing of their effects. Also, you probably shouldn’t exercise if you’ve gone several hours without food. One of the best times of the day to exercise is after a meal. This ensures that there is some glucose in your body but also helps to lower the spike in blood glucose that is caused by eating. In order to help prevent hypoglycemia, you need to think about many aspects of your day-to-day diabetes care. If your blood glucose levels are frequently too low during or after exercise, check with your physician or diabetes educator. You may be instructed to

Diabetes and exercise go hand in hand, at least when it comes to managing your diabetes. But diabetes and exercise pose unique challenges, too. To exercise safely, it’s crucial to track your blood sugar before, during and after physical activity. modify your exercise regimen. You also may be told to check your blood glucose levels before exercising and, if necessary, to eat a small snack beforehand. Generally, if your blood glucose is less than 100 mg/dL before exercise, you should eat at least one carbohydrate choice (15 grams) before your workout. If your exercise session lasts longer than an hour, you should consider retesting when you finish to see if you need another snack, even if you feel fine. Improvement in glycemic control from exercise can

actually last 12 to 72 hours depending on the duration and intensity of the exercise. Continue to monitor your blood sugar levels daily as recommended by your doctor or diabetes educator. Always keep some quick sources of sugar handy just in case you need it while exercising. This can be glucose tablets, glucose gel, hard candy (not sugar free), fruit juice, raisins, or a regular soft drink (not diet). Courtesy of LifeScan

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