Health, wellness & fitness 2018 05 25

Health, Wellness &Beauty

a blank slate media/litmor publications special section • may 25, 2018

38 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

Mental health and Baby Boomers

BY A LL E N LEBOVITS As members of the Baby Boomer generation reach what was once considered their “golden years,” many are redefining what it means to be an older adult.

Instead of retirement and rocking chairs, they’re working longer and living more active lifestyles than their parents ever did.

But while Baby Boomers tend to be more physically healthy than previous generations, many of my patients struggle to address a key component to overall wellness: their mental health.

People are often surprised to learn that rates of mental health disorders are rising fastest among Baby Boomers: it’s estimated that 20 percent of people age 55 or older experience some type of mental health issue, and the number of older adults with depression is expected to double between 2010 and 2030.

We go through a lot of changes as we age such as

death of loved ones, medical problems, or retirement that can make us feel anxious, depressed or stressed.

It’s normal to go through an adjustment period before starting to feel well again.

But if these feelings persist and begin interfering with daily life and normal functioning, it’s time to seek the treatment needed to feel better.

Unfortunately, older adults are often hesitant to reach out for help due to the persistent

stigma around mental health issues and generational differences in how these disorders are perceived.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about prevention, treatment, and recovery support resources available in our communities.

It’s also an opportunity for each of us to reach out and offer support and encouragement to a friend or loved one

who may be struggling. If you want to help someone you care about get the support they need, here is some advice for starting the conversation: Show that you’re concerned in a way that is not confrontational or judgmental.

Let them know that you care about them, and you want to check in because you’re concerned about recent changes you’ve noticed in their mood or behavior.

Keep questions simple.

Ask how they’re doing, what they’re feeling, and how you can help provide support.

Offer reassurance and hope. Let them know that they’re not alone and that you‘re there to support them in actively seeking help to feel better.

Avoid phrases that could sound dismissive or accusatory.

Although you may not understand what they’re feeling, it’s important to only express your unwavering support.

Suggest reaching out to a local recovery support resource. Ask if they have thought about seeking support

from a professional trained to help with these types of issues.

Consider having some suggestions ready to share, or offer to research local resources together.

After your initial conversation, stay engaged with your loved one and check in regularly. Having consistent support from family and friends can make a huge difference in people’s well-being.

Raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health issues are keys to supporting wellbeing within our communities. It’s up to all of us to reach out and encourage our friends, neighbors and family members in need to access these available resources.

For more information and links to mental health support resources in your area, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness at www.nami.org or call the NAMI HelpLine at (800)950-NAMI (6264).

Allen Lebovits is director of psychological services, ProHEALTH Care Associates

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

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ADVERTORIAL

Nourish Your Smile...With a well-balanced diet!

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 90% of all systemic diseases show up orally. Your dental health care providers may be the first to identify a potential health problem. Eating correctly not only reduces the risks of diabetes, heart disease, and being overweight, it also benefits your oral health.

Diets low in important nutrients weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off infection. Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that destroys the tissues and bone that support the teeth.

Unfortunately our sugar intake has more than doubled in the last 30 years!

This sweet temptation is a causative factor in obesity, insulin release and tooth decay. Oral bacteria, which feed on sugars left in our mouths after eating, produce the acids, which deminerialize tooth enamel and cause cavities.

The Magnificent 7 Key Nutrients That Support Good Oral Health: 1. Vitamin C plays a major role in maintaining and repairing healthy connective tissue which is vital for gum health. Insufficient vitamin C can cause severe gingivitis-red, swollen, bleeding gums.

What to eat: Citrus fruits, strawberries, pineapple as well as bell peppers and leafy greens.

2. Vitamin A helps keep mucous membranes healthy. It prevents dry mouth and helps the mouth heal quickly.

What to eat: Fish, egg yolks and liver, leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and collards. Fruits and veggies that are orange-colored (think apricots, cantaloupe, pumpkin, carrots and sweet potatoes) contain high levels of betacarotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. 3. Calcium is a well known friend for teeth by helping to harden enamel and strengthen the jawbone. Men and women who have insufficient calcium are almost twice as likely to have periodontal diseases – particularly young adults in their 20s and 30s.

What to eat: Good quality dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt additionally, sunflower & sesame seeds and beans.

4. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium while boosting bone mineral density, so it is crucial to get an adequate amount of vitamin D. What to eat: Your body naturally makes vitamin D with direct exposure to sunlight. Eating fatty fish (salmon, halibut, mackerel and sardines), egg yolks and mushrooms are good choices.

5. Vitamin K, think of this vitamin as a shield – it helps block substances that break down bone. It also helps your body produce osteocalcin, a protein that supports bone strength.

Deficiencies can slow down your body’s healing process and make you more likely to bleed.

What to eat: All leafy greens, such as kale, collards and spinach other great sources include parsley, broccoli and brussel sprouts.

6. Potassium like vitamin D improves bone mineral density. It also works with magnesium to prevent blood from becoming too acidic, which can leach calcium from your bones and teeth.

What to eat: Bananas are a well known source of potassium along with white beans, lima beans, tomatoes,

Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, avocados and prunes.

7. Phosphorus supports calcium in building strong bones and teeth.

What to eat: Luckily, phosphorus is found in a wide range of foods. Rich sources of the mineral include seafood, turkey breast, brown rice, lentils and pumpkin seeds.

Adequate nutrition and regular dental care are important steps on the road to good oral health.

Dental Diet Tips: 1. Move towards high nutrient low sugar natural foods 2. Avoid processed foods, refined carbohydrates, high sugar foods and beverages 3. Brush your teeth right after meals to keep from snacking beyond being satisfied 4. Drink water to stay hydrated and curb your appetite, and to keep your mouth fresh 5. Get your teeth cleaned professionally, regularly. You’ll enjoy the clean look, feel, and taste so much!

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40 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 ADVERTORIAL

Microblading - 24/7 Eyebrows of your dreams!

Read any fashion magazine today and you’ve probably heard about microblading, the new semi-permanent esthetic treatment for enhancing eyebrows. When you've tried every pencil, powder, pigment, gel, and stencil at your favorite cosmetic counter and your brows are still thin or not shaped as you wish, microblading is a semi-permanent solution to thin brows. This treatment promises to change your brow life! It doesn't matter if you like

them arched and feathered or straight and bold. Eyebrows are arguably the most important facial feature. If you are one of many women who spend hours trying to reconstruct, define, cover gaps, fill-in over thin areas or just want to add a slight arch to your eyebrows you will find that microblading results are a natural and undetectable look. The delicate, super-fine hair strokes created look so realistic this could be the solution you’re looking for.

North Shore Medical Spa specializes in this dream come true treatment and for sure you will want the guidance and skillful hands of our experienced aesthetician.

Depending on a number of factors, with proper routine care results can last up to 3 years.

cream to minimize any discomfort.

You’ll find compared to other techniques “microblading will give you a very natural look that will simulate your own hair”.

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

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42 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

The mysterious world of allergies

BY TOM F E R R A RO Sport Psychologist Believe it or not, there is a film that’s about allergies and how to cure them. All it takes is surviving a plane crash.

Let me explain.

The film is “Fearless” directed

by Oscar-winning director Peter Weir and is based upon the novel of the same name by Rafael Yglesias.

The film starred Jeff Bridges, Isabella Rossellini and Rosie Perez. Bridges and Perez were one of three survivors of an airplane crash.

The Jeff Bridges character became fearless after surviving the crash and coincidently was cured of his severe strawberry allergy.

Sadly by the end of the film his allergy returns with a vengeance and he goes into anaphylaxis when he learns that he will be receiving a huge settlement for the plane crash.

The author may have taken poetic license in order to make some dramatic points but the message ought to be clear that allergies are connected to emotions that lurk beneath the skin.

Allergies are the immune

system’s reaction to a foreign substance like pollen, medication, an insect bite or pet dander by producing antibodies.

The body identifies the foreign allergen as harmful even though it’s benign and the reaction causes inflammation of skin, sinuses, air passages or the digestive system.

The eyes may itch, the lips may swell, the chest may tighten, the patient may wheeze and the worst case faces anaphylaxis which is a medical emergency.

There have been increases in allergies to food and various

theories have been presented to explain all this. The most common treatments include antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications.

All that’s old news. What may be new news to you is what psychoanalysts have been saying about allergies.

The connection between stress and allergic reactions is now clear.

As an example research by Kiecolt-Glaser and Glaser of Ohio State University Medical Center have demonstrated that when you induce stress in patients

Did you know?

Running on a variety of surfaces instead of sticking to just one surface may help runners reduce their risk of injury. Officials with the USA Track and Field’s Sports Medicine and Science Committee recommend that runners vary their runs so they run on pavement, trails and tracks. While it helps to run on various surfaces, researchers do not believe one particular surface is better than another. In fact, while running on asphalt has long been assumed to increase injury risk because of the presumption that harder surfaces produce greater impact forces on the body, a 2008 study from researchers at the Hannover Medical School Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery in Germany found that running on asphalt surfaces decreased mid-portion tendinopathy risk while running on sand surfaces increased that risk tenfold.

prior to exposure to allergens the wheals or welts produced were 75 percent larger.

This shows how important a person’s emotional state is when having an allergic reaction and also how important the role of medical reassurance is when treating the allergic patient.

I spoke to Dr. Yiqun Hui who is a successful allergy specialist and researcher with offices in Bayside and she told me that medical reassurance plays a major role in treating the allergy patient.

She said that the world today is filled with anxiety and that reassurance plays a key part in helping patients. She added that stress can induce many allergic conditions including hives, eczema and asthma.

There is a scene in the beginning of the film “The Sweet Hereafter” that perfectly demonstrates this issue.

The film starts out with a baby being bitten by a nest of spiders and proceeds to go into early stages of anaphylaxis. The father calls the ER and is told to rush the child over to the hospital but to make sure the child is kept calm or their breathing passage will

close up.

If that happens the father was told he would have to perform a tracheotomy on his own. This was a truly disturbing film opening.

And if we address allergic reactions on a deeper level there is a vast literature called psychosomatics which suggests that when emotions are repressed and unresolved they have a nasty way of finding expression in the body.

Repressed emotions and unfelt loss regularly produce allergic reactions, headaches, back pain, spastic colon, chest pain, accident proneness and much more.

The founder of this research is Felix Deutsch. M.D. who wrote the text “On the mysterious leap from the mind to the body: A study of the theory of conversion” back in 1959.

This book is now considered a classic in psychosomatic writing and researchers like Dr. C. Philip Wilson, Dr. Cecil Mushatt, Dr. Ira Mintz and many others have carried on this work.

I rarely see a patient who is not suffering from some form of psychosomatic reaction on a regular basis.

Continued on Page 74

ACUPUNCTURE Traditional Chinese Medicine Dr. Dazhi Chen, Ph.D N.Y.S. Lic. Acupuncturist. NCCAOM Chinese Herbology Credentialed Acupuncturist North Shore Hospital

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• SEASONAL ALLERGIES Allergy symptoms relieved in 1-3 treatments

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY ADVERTORIAL

The Effects of Poor Dental Hygiene on Your Body HALITOSIS: Lack of regular brushing and flossing leaves small food particles wedged between teeth that collect bacteria and emit chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide - the same compound that gives rotten eggs their smell.

ATHEROSLEROSIS: High levels of diseasecausing bacteria in the mouth can lead to the

clogging of the Carotid Artery and increased risk of stroke.

as predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.

PERIODONTAL HEART DISEASE: DISEASE: Periodontal disease makes Bone deterioration around people 2x likely to devel- the teeth leads to loosenop heart disease and arte- ing and eventual tooth loss. 25% of US adults rial narrowing as a result of periodontal bacteria and over 65 have lost all their plaque entering the blood- teeth. stream through the gums.

RESPIRATORY One study found that the presence of cavities and PROBLEMS: Bacteria from periodontal missing teeth are as good

disease can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, where it can aggravate respiratory systems especially in a patients who have a history of these problems.

DIABETES: 95% of US adults with diabetes also have periodontal disease.1/3 have advanced periodontal disease that has a lead to tooth loss.

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44 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

North Shore

Vein Center

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

Guidance center benefits from soiree On Tuesday, May 15, the Welcoming Club of Garden City hosted their Spring Soirée at the Garden City Hotel, with all proceeds going to benefit North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center, the premiere not-for-profit children’s mental health agency on Long Island.

The event featured fabulous boutique shopping, getting-to-know-you games, a Garden City trivia contest, great raffle prizes and a delicious buffet.

“Tuesday was a fun and fabulous night that allowed the ladies of the Welcoming Club of Garden City to come together with old friends and mix and mingle to meet new ones in a chic and festive atmosphere,” says Meg DockeryCremins, president of the Welcoming Club. “The Spring Soirée was the culmination of a year’s worth of family, couples and ladies events to benefit North Shore

Child & Family Guidance Center. The wonderful vendors along with our generous community sponsors provided fabulous prizes which will allow us to make a generous donation to The Guidance Center, which we view as a critically important organization in the community.”

“We are so grateful to the members of the Welcoming Club of Garden City for making us the beneficiary of their events for September 2017 through June 2018,” says Lauren McGowan, Director of Development for North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center. “The funds that they raise will go directly to our core mission of helping Long Island children and their families who are in need of mental health or substance use care. We could not do our work without generous donations from community-minded organizations like the Welcoming Club.”

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AT FACEBOOK.COM/THEISLANDNOW AND LIKE US ON TWITTER: @THEISLANDNOW ADVERTORIAL

HEALTHY FEET FOR SUMMER FUN What are your plans this summer? Are you going to the beach, swimming in the pool, hiking, traveling? Whatever those plans may be, don’t allow warts or fungal nails to ruin your fun! Know the warning signs of warts and fungus to prevent any serious foot problems. If you have dry, cracking or flaking skin, yellowing, white powdery, brittle and thick nails, or painful bumps on your heel or toes – you may be experiencing the symptoms of warts, or fungal nails. Warts begin as black dots or calluses. Toenail fungus is a serious condition that manifests itself with a variety of unpleasant symptoms. These include discoloration of nails and foot odor. It can even lead to severe pain and discomfort. Nail Fungus starts as skin discoloration and separation of the nail. While warts are caused by viruses, nail fungus is caused by bacteria that spreads through water. Warts and nail fungus can be spread at the gym, wet concrete around pools, and beach stations where you washyour feet. The best way to protect yourself is knowing how to prevent these misfortunes from occurring.

Protect your feet by wearing shoes, sandals or flip flops at all times. Also don’t forget to put sunscreen on your feet too! The skin on your feet is vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer, too.

If you are one of the tens of thousands of Long Islanders suffering from the pain and soreness associated with toenail fungus or warts, call Dr. Mary Carlson. She and her friendly staff offer personalized care with state-of-the art technology. Dr. Mary Carlson has dedicated her entire career to providing patients with a superior in-office experience, state-of-the-art pain-free procedures, and most importantly, proven results. Dr. Carlson has old fashioned values-she even

does house calls! Fire Department, Police Department, Emergency Workers, and E.M.T’s receive V.I.P. treatment with no waiting time. We accept Medicare and offer VIP treatment to NYSHIP Members.

Meet Dr. Mary Carlson Dr. Mary Carlson is a graduate of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine and has spent her entire career providing superior care to each and every one of her patients. She does this by creating an office environment that fosters warmth and compassion, treating every patient with the respect and dignity that they deserve. With state-of-the-art laser technology and imaging devices located on-site, she is able to diagnose and treat most conditions right in the comfort of her own office. If you would like to schedule an appointment or find out more information on the services Dr. Mary Carlson offers, please contact her office at 516-248-8188.

Community Awareness Dr. Mary Carlson’s passion and commitment to serve extends far beyond her the work she performs in her office. As founder and president of “Shoes for All,” a non-profit organization that collects and distributes new and gently used shoes to families in need, she has helped men, woman, and children all across Long Island obtain one of the most basic necessities that many of us take for granted. Everybody can help make a difference by donating shoes that they no longer wear. Monetary donations are greatly needed to provide poverty level children with back to school shoes so they can start the new school year off on the right foot. It’s that simple! Please check out www.ShoesForAll. org or call 516-506SHOES to donate. All donations are greatly appreciated

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Did you know?

Carbohydrates are seen as the enemy by many people looking to lose weight, but that reputation is ill-deserved for certain types of carbs. Carbohydrates referred to as “smart carbs” can boost energy and mood and help people, even dieters, maintain healthy weights. Smart carbs, which can be found in fruits, vegetables, minimally processed whole grain products such as brown rice and quinoa, and whole wheat bread among other foods, contain vital nutrients and fiber. The body takes longer to absorb whole grains than it does processed carbohydrates, stabilizing blood sugar and energy levels as a result. Because the body takes longer to absorb whole grains, feelings of satiety and fullness are extended. That reduces the likelihood of being hungry again shortly after eating, thereby helping people maintain healthy weights. Those who want to avoid carbohydrates should avoid products made with white flour, such as white bread, non-whole grain pastas, potato chips, and breakfast cereals with high amounts of sugar.

70 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

The hidden benefits of water D ehydration is a dangerous condition that can cause a host of complications and even prove fatal in severe cases.

But as dangerous as dehydration can be, many cases are entirely preventable.

The best way to prevent dehydration is to drink enough water. When the body does not take in as much water as it puts out, it can become dehydrated. People who live in warm climates or in elevated altitudes may lose more water than those who do not. In addition, water loss is accelerated during strenuous exercise, highlighting the emphasis men and women must place on drinking enough water during their workouts.

But water does more for the body than prevent dehydration. The following are a handful of lesser known ways that water benefits the body.

Water can help people maintain healthy weights. Dieting fads come and go, but water is a mainstay for people who want to control their caloric intake in an effort to maintain healthy weights. Water has zero calories, so reaching for a bottle or glass of water instead of a soda, lemonade or another caloric beverage can help people

keep the pounds off. A study from researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center found that even diet soda enhances weight gain by as much as 41 percent.

In addition, soda has been linked to conditions such as obesity, diabetes and tooth decay. No such association exists with water.

of Wisconsin-Madison School

Water helps to fight fatigue.

The fatigue-fighting properties of water are another of its lesser known benefits. When the body is not adequately hydrated, it can experience muscle soreness. And fitness enthusiasts who do not drink enough water may notice their bodies require extensive recovery time after working out. Each of those consequences can be prevented by drinking enough water, and doing so can even improve performance, as studies have shown that just a 3 percent loss of body weight due to dehydration can cause as much as a 10 percent drop in performance level.

leaving the bath or shower and

Water can improve the appearance of the skin. Skin that does not get enough water can turn dry and flaky and feel tight. In addition, dry skin is more likely to wrinkle than adequately hydrated skin. Getting water to the skin can be tricky, as the University

of Medicine and Public Health

notes that water will reach all the

other organs of the body before it reaches the skin. But the school recommends applying a hydrating moisturizer within two minutes of drinking at least eight glasses of water a day to ensure the skin is getting enough water.

Water helps the gastrointestinal tract. Water can help maintain normal bowel function. When the body lacks sufficient fluid, the colon will pull water from stools in an effort to stay hydrated. That can lead to constipation, a condition in which people experience difficulty emptying their bowels. By drinking enough water, people can ensure their colon will not have to pull water from stools to stay hydrated, thereby helping them stay regular.

Water helps the body in myriad ways, many of which might surprise people unaware of just how valuable water can be to the body.

ADVERTORIAL

Learning to Ensure Your Child Thrives If you are a parent, student or otherwise interested in education, Don’t miss the AERO Conference to be held June 28-th to July 1 at LIU’s C.W. Post campus in Brookville. The conference brings together people from across the country and around the world who believe that children are natural learners. What does that mean? It means that these schools and homeschools build on the interest of the learner rather that force children to learn things that are irrelevant to them.

Some of the presenters at this conference will be students. One keynoter is from Summerhill School, in England. Founded nearly 100 years ago, at Summerhill all classes are optional and all day to day decisions are made by a democratic meeting in which students have the same vote as teachers.

Summerhill was founded by A.S, Neill and the speaker, Henry Readhead, is the grandson of Neill, a graduate of Summerhill, and now teaches at the school.

Another keynoter will be Dr. Joel Fuhrman, internationally known doctor, nutritionist and author. He’ll talk about how crucial the right nutrition is for children to develop and thrive. There are special day passes available for people who particularly want to meet Dr. Fuhrman.

There will also be 6 TED-style minitalks and 25 workshops and even a documentary and presentation by the elementary students from Pono in West Harlem about a presidential survey they created.

People are coming from 25 states and 8 countries, but AERO has special rates and scholarships for Long Islanders, as founder Jerry Mintz lives right in Roslyn. For more info go to AEROconference.org, write to info@educationrevolution.org, or call the AERO office at 516 621 2195.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

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Mercy Medical Center Launches Men’s Health Program According to the Centers for Disease Control, the top two leading causes of death in men are heart disease and cancer. To address these issues along with the wide range of health issues men are concerned about today, Mercy Medical Center is introducing a newly developed men’s health program. From preventive medicine and heart health to sleep disorders, sports medicine, cancer care and more, the program’s multidisciplinary approach to men’s health features the latest technology and advanced medical expertise.

The goal is to make it more convenient for men to get the regular health care they need.

Mercy’s wide array of men’s health services include: • Primary Care & Preventive Medicine • Orthopedics • Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation • Sleep Disorders • Sports Medicine • Heart Health • Mental Health • Cancer Care • Diabetes • Digestive Issues • Ear, Nose & Throat Conditions • Foot Care • Pain Management • Prostate Disease • Skin Conditions • Smoking Cessation • Surgery • Urinary Dysfunction • Weight Loss Learn about the new program and the latest advances in men’s health from some of the region’s leading specialists at the upcoming Men’s Health Awareness Event - Ask the Experts Father’s Day BBQ. The event will take place on Saturday, June 23, from noon – 2 p.m. at Mercy Medical Center’s Garden of Caring.

All area men, their spouses, family and friends are invited. While there is no cost to attend, reservations are required.

Mercy Medical Center’s newly developed men’s health program makes it more convenient for men to get the regular health care they need.

To reserve your spot or for more information, please call

516-62-MERCY

FOR

Mercy Medical Center’s dedicated program to take care of Today’s Man from Head to Toe.

Call Today!

516-62-MERCY (63729) mercymedicalcenter.chsli.org

Primary Care & Preventive Medicine Orthopedics, Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sleep Disorders Sports Medicine Heart Health (disease prevention, assessment and care)

Mental Health (anxiety, depression, substance abuse)

Diabetes

Prostate Disease

(education and nutrition)

(prostatitis, enlarged prostate, prostate cancer)

Pain Management Digestive Issues Ear, Nose & Throat Conditions Foot Care Cancer

Skin Conditions Smoking Cessation Surgery Urinary Dysfunction Weight Loss

(prevention, screening and treatment)

72 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

Assistive devices help people remain mobile Canes: Canes are handheld devices that provide a little extra stability or support to weakened limbs. Canes are easily transported and can assist those who need only a little help.

Standard walkers: Also known as medical walkers, standard walkers offer substantial support and must be lifted to move. That requires upper body strength, which can be difficult for some to maintain on long trips.

D

isabilities affect people from all walks of life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that around 55 million Americans have a disability of some kind. Of these people, 33 million have a disability that makes it difficult for them to carry out some daily activities. Statistics Canada states that, as of 2012, 13.7 percent of the population age 15 years or older reported having a disability that could impact daily life.

People with disabilities may need assistive devices to reclaim some measure of their independence. For example, millions of people rely on

wheelchairs or walking aids to get around.

These are called assistive technology and rehabilitative devices, which include tools, equipment or products that can help people with disabilities get around more easily. These devices may be as small as magnifying glasses for reading to as large as wheelchairs.

The National Institutes of Health state that 2.2 million people in the U.S depend on wheelchairs for day-to-day tasks and mobility. More than six million use canes, walkers or crutches to assist with mobility.

The following are some of the common types of mobility devices available for purchase.

Rolling walkers: Rolling walkers are similar to standard walkers. But rolling walkers have wheels, either on the front only or on both sets of legs. They are somewhat less stable than standard walkers. Rolling walkers with wheellocking devices may offer stability when needed. Some rolling walkers are called “rollators.”

Wheelchairs: Standard wheelchairs must be powered by the person in the chair or by someone pushing it from behind. This can be difficult for people with minimal upper body strength.

Mechanical wheelchairs are powered with a lever or button. Some people may

opt for motorized scooters over bulkier wheelchairs when possible.

Assistive devices can be highly effective, but only when they are used properly and safely. Assistive devices should be measured for each user. Many walkers are height-adjustable. The width of a device also is important. A walker or another device that is too wide can affect mobility or require modifications to be made around the home. Weight is another consideration. The device should be lightweight so it can be maneuvered, but also weigh enough to provide enough stability to keep users upright.

Users should proceed slowly and favor their stronger sides when relying on canes or walkers. Devices should not be used to climb atop other items like step stools. Children should not be allowed to play with or ride on assistive devices.

If there are safety belts or locks on any assistive technology, they should be put in place before use to prevent further injury.

4 foods that can boost energy levels

1. Cashews: Cashews, which are high in magnesium, help to convert sugar into energy. Magnesium deficiency can lead to low energy levels, so nuts that are high in magnesium, including cashews, can provide that mid-afternoon jolt that some people are seeking. Cashews are high in calories, so it’s best for those looking to lose weight or maintain healthy weights to adhere to serving suggestion guidelines.

2. Skinless chicken: A study from researcher Judith Wurtman of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Clinical Research Center found that alertness tends to increase when the brain produces the neurotransmitter dopamine and the hormone norepinephrine.

Skinless chicken contains an amino acid known as tyrosine that helps in the production of both dopamine and norepinephrine. If skinless chicken is not available, other foods that may provide this same effect include fish, lean beef and eggs. In addition, lean meats like skinless chicken contain enough vitamin B to help ease insomnia.

3. Salmon:

4. Beans:

Omega-3 fatty acids can help the body fight inflammation, which has been linked to a host of ailments, including chronic fatigue. Salmon is also high in protein, which can eliminate the mid- to late-afternoon hunger pangs that can derail healthy diets and contribute to weight gain.

Beans are loaded with fiber, and that’s a good thing for energy levels. Like magnesium, which can also be found in beans, fiber takes awhile to digest, extending the energy-boosting properties of foods loaded with fiber. In spite of the growing movement to eat and live healthier, many adults still do not include enough fiber in their diets. Men and women can consult with their physicians to determine how to make that happen, but eating more beans is a good start.

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74 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

Why dental The mysterious world of allergies, the mind hygiene is essential Continued from Page 42 This is why drug stores are doing a thriving business as patients hunt down over the counter cures for a variety of emotionally induced ailments.

What they really ought to be doing, in addition to purchasing medicine, is to find a way to hunt down their repressed emotions that are causing so much pain and anguish.

This, of course, is more difficult than you might think.

As an example of a dramatic psychosomatic reaction, I work with a tennis player who has been preparing for a major tournament and was filled with dread and fear as the day approached.

He went into the event with anxiety and trepidation and lost in an embarrassing fashion. He seemed to hold things together quite well for about two days and then suddenly had a severe allergic reaction where he sneezed violently and could not stop doing so.

This was followed by crying as he finally broke down and got in touch with the loss and the shame. Shortly after this his sneezing stopped and his allergic reaction mysteriously disappeared as quickly as it had come.

Many years ago I did research that

looked at the precursors to injury and illnesses.

I interviewed over 400 patients and simply asked about their present state of health, any new illnesses or injuries and any recent loss or big changes in their life.

What I found was that the patients who had undergone loss but who had not expressed or mourned this loss all had sudden medical conditions and/or injuries.

There is little doubt that emotion and its repression play a significant role in the appearance of illnesses including a variety of allergic reactions.

One of my supervisor’s during my psychoanalytic training was Dr. Stephen Zaslow who was trained at Harvard Medical School and who told me that the asthmatic patients were saying “no” to the world around them and saw allergens as symbolic enemies.

Allergies and asthmatic conditions are far more mysterious then one might think.

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he importance of maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums goes beyond having fresh breath and a white smile. Many people are surprised to discover that oral hygiene plays an integral role in overall health.

Research indicates that oral health mirrors the condition of the body as a whole. Also, regular dental visits can alert dentists about overall health and pinpoint if a person is at a risk for chronic disease.

An oral health check-up also may be the first indication of a potential health issue not yet evident to a general medical doctor.

Heart disease According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a distinct relationship between periodontal disease and conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Joint teams at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom and the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland, found that people with bleeding gums from poor dental hygiene could have an increased risk of heart disease.

Bacteria from the mouth is able to enter the bloodstream when bleeding gums are present. That bacteria can stick to platelets and subsequently form blood clots. This interrupts the flow of blood to the heart and may trigger a heart attack.

Brushing and flossing twice daily and rinsing with mouthwash can remove bacteria and keep gums healthy.

Facial pain The Office of the Surgeon General says infections of the gums that support the teeth can lead to facial and oral pain.

Gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease, as well as advanced gum disease, affects more than 75 percent of the American population.

Dental decay can lead to its own share of pain. Maintaining a healthy mouth can fend off decay and infections, thereby preventing pain.

Pancreatic cancer In 2007, the Harvard School of Public Health reported a link between gum

disease and pancreatic cancer. In the ongoing study, 51,000 men were followed and data was collected beginning in 1986. The Harvard researchers found that men with a history of gum disease had a 64 percent increased risk of pancreatic cancer compared with men who had never had gum disease. The greatest risk for pancreatic cancer among this group was in men with recent tooth loss. However, the study was unable to find links between other types of oral health problems, such as tooth decay, and pancreatic cancer.

Alzheimer’s disease Various health ailments, including poor oral health, have been linked to a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

In 2010, after reviewing 20 years’ worth of data, researchers from New York University concluded that there is a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. Follow-up studies from researchers at the University of Central Lancashire in the United Kingdom compared brain samples from 10 living patients with Alzheimer’s to samples from 10 people who did not have the disease. Data indicated that a bacterium — Porphyromonas gingivalis — was present in the Alzheimer’s brain samples but not in the samples from the brains of people who did not have Alzheimer’s.

P. gingivalis is usually associated with chronic gum disease. As a result of the study, experts think that the bacteria can move via nerves in the roots of teeth that connect directly with the brain or through bleeding gums.

These health conditions are just a sampling of the relationship between oral health and overall health. Additional connections also have been made and continue to be studied.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018 • HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

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76 HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, May 25, 2018

Protecting your family from potentially dangerous household chemicals H omes are safe havens that people retreat to in an effort to relax and unwind. However, homes may be harboring some hazards that put their inhabitants at risk.

Cleaning products and chemicals can be found in every home, but some may be putting people in jeopardy.

Even seemingly safe items can prove dangerous when they are used and/or stored incorrectly.

Individuals who make a concerted effort to educate themselves about common household chemicals can reduce the likelihood that such cleaners will hurt them in the long run. The following are some commonly used products that may prove dangerous or irritating with prolonged use.

Air fresheners These seemingly innocuous products may be doing more harm than good.

Information published in a 2015 issue of The Journal of Toxicological Sciences linked air fresheners to volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. They also may contain ultra-fine particles of formaldehyde and phenol. In addition, National Geographic’s The Green Guide states that many air fresheners contain nerve-deadening chemicals that coat

nasal passages and temporarily block one’s sense of smell. Many widely available air fresheners use phthalates, which are linked to hormonal and reproductive issues, birth defects and developmental disorders.

In lieu of chemical air fresheners, spray diluted essential oils around the house.

All-purpose cleaners Many cleaners list bleach and ammonia among their ingredients.

Bleach may be listed as sodium hypochlorite.

When used as directed in a wellventilated space, bleach and ammonia can be relatively safe. However, fumes from bleach or ammonia can cause rashes and skin irritation and irritate the eyes and respiratory tract. Bleach and ammonia should never be mixed because mixing the two can produce a deadly chloramine

gas.

Vinegar and baking soda can be used as a replacement for many household cleaning products, and these alternatives have virtually no dangerous side effects.

Drain and oven cleaners Many drain and oven cleaners contain lye (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide), a chemical derived from salt or wood ash that is used to break down other substances, particularly those that are sticky. Lye is quite caustic in high amounts and extremely alkaline, which can cause burns and skin irritation. Lye is also found in soaps and detergents. When handled correctly in safe amounts, lye can be used safely.

However, it can be dangerous if it gets into the hands of children or is touched

by pets.

Antibacterial products

Antibacterial soaps, lotions and wipes may contain triclosan, triclocarban and at least 17 additional ingredients that are linked to various negative health effects.

In September 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the use of these antibacterial agents. These chemicals can disrupt hormone cycles and cause muscle weakness.

“There’s no data demonstrating that over-the-counter antibacterial soaps are better at preventing illness than washing with plain soap and water,” the FDA said in a press release issued shortly after the rule was announced.

In addition to the aforementioned products, some carpet cleaners, toilet cleaners and other detergents may prove harmful. Always read ingredient lists, use products in the proper fashion and keep any and all chemicals away from children and pets.

Recognize and avoid youth sports injuries C

hildren benefit in various ways from their involvement in youth sports. Being part of a team fosters feelings of belonging, inspires collaborative play and strategy and can be an excellent form of exercise. Still, despite the benefits, parents often worry about the injury risk their children face on the playing fields.

Those fears are justified. A Safe Kids Worldwide survey of emergency room visits found that a young athlete visits a hospital emergency room for a sports-related injury more than a million times a year, or about every 25 seconds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 2.6 million children 0 to 19 years old are treated in the emergency department each year for sportsand recreation-related injuries.

Some of the more common injuries young children face have to do with the skeletal and muscular systems of the body.

The American Academy of

Orthopaedic Surgeons stresses that children’s bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments are still growing, making them more susceptible to injury. Fortunately, with some education, many youth-sport injuries can be prevented.

Sprains and strains Sprains are injuries to ligaments, or the bands of tough, fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones at a joint. Strains impact a muscle or a tendon, which connects muscles to bones.

Clinical research has linked acute strains and sprains to improper warm-up before sports, fatigue and previous injuries.

Preparticipation conditioning and stretching can help reduce the risk of injury.

Periostitis Periostitis is commonly known as “shin splints.” This is an overuse injury that occurs in athletes who are engaged in activities that involve rapid deceleration.

Periostitis causes inflammation of the band of tissue that surrounds

bones known as the periosteum, and typically affects people who repetitively jump, run or lift heavy weights.

To head off potential pain in the shins, young athletes can gradually build up their tolerance for physical activity. Supportive shoes or orthotic inserts may also help. Incorporating cross-training into a regimen also can work.

Repetitive use activities Swimmers, tennis players, pitchers, and quarterbacks may experience something called a repetitive use injury.

This is pain in an area of the body that is used over and over again. Inflammation of muscles and tendons may appear, but repetitive use injuries also may result in stress fractures, which the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases defines as hairline fractures in bones that are subjected to repeated stress.

Rest between exercises can help alleviate these types of injuries.

Ice, compression, elevation and

immobilization may be used if pain is persistent.

Growth plate injuries Kids Health says growth plates are the areas of growing tissue near the ends of the long bones in the legs and arms in children and adolescents. A growth plate produces new bone tissue. If the growth plate is injured, it cannot do its job properly. That may contribute to deformed bones, shorter limbs or arthritis. Growth plate injuries most often result from falling or twisting.

While there’s no surefire way to prevent growth plate injuries, getting proper and immediate care after an injury can help prevent future problems. An orthopedic surgeon has the expertise to diagnose and treat these injuries.

Youth sports injuries are common but preventable. Warming up, being in good physical shape and not overtaxing a growing body can help kids avoid pain and impairment.