Health, Beauty & Fitness Spring 2019

BC Health Beauty & Fitness

SPRING 2019

SPRING 2019 • COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

bcthemag.com

Emotional Harmony

Spring 2019 Publishers

Sharon & Steven Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein

Editorial Director

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Design Director

Jessica LaPlaca-Bruno Fashion Director Candace Kristin

Contributing Writers Jacqui Atcheson Ben Becker

Sheila M. Clancy, MS, CHES Agatha Davis

Jacqueline Hope

Tara Ippolito-Lafontant Merilee Kern

Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP Roslyn Rolan Stacie Rose

Richard Wilcott Natalie Zisa

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness is published by BC The Mag.

Find us at www.BCTheMag.com.

For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5197 or (201) 265-2286.

4 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Copyright 2019. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

y o j En

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Editorial Director

A Letter From The Editorial Director

W

hile you await rebirth, rejuvenation and renewal as the season changes from winter to spring, I’m anxiously awaiting the arrival of my second son. He’s given my body and heart a new shape, and I haven’t even met him yet. This spring, as the many before, the days will become longer, the sun brighter and the Earth a tad greener. It’s fitting, isn’t it, that spring is a powerful time to plant new ideas and nurture new growth?

Cliffside Park’s Dawn Pascale knows a thing or two about rebirth. After losing her job in January 2013, she it took it upon herself to try something new: a vegan baking class. For Pascale, a hobby was reborn into a career as Om Sweet Home opened its doors in January of 2017. Read about her transformation in From Corporate to Cakes: How the Owner of Om Sweet Home Made Vegan Eating Mainstream.

Similar to Pascale, Ridgewood’s Rich Giacopelli, one of the 2.5 million people worldwide currently living with Multiple Sclerosis, experienced his own rebirth. At just 30 years old, with a 2-year-old son and a newborn on the way, Giacopelli was diagnosed with MS. With the help of his wife, Christine, Giacopelli started the nonprofit Advance The Cure. Learn more by reading MS Diagnosis Leads Ridgewood Family to Create Advance the Cure.

Rather than losing a job or receiving a life-changing diagnosis, perhaps you went through a different kind of hardship – let’s say a divorce. There are ways to rejuvenate your life. Take it from Certified Divorce Coach and Certified Divorce Mediator Jacqui Atcheson, you can Thrive Through and Beyond Divorce.

With spring comes renewal of your health, diet and maybe even your kitchen. In this issue, we share ways to renew many aspects of your life. For example, Sheila M. Clancy asks Are There Sneaky Germs In Your Kitchen?, and shares ways to combat them; Jacqueline Hope shares ways to Become Your Best Self; and Tara IppolitoLafontant, also known as Al Dente Diva, makes it easy for those adopting the Ketogenic lifestyle by highlighting some easy dietfriendly recipes..

The time has never been more right to stop, reassess and make changes to better balance your life.

Enjoy the warmth and light,

@bcthemag

Michael Weisgarber Aortic Dissection Suffern, NY

TEACHER CARE.

As the ONL ONLY LY Y dedicated cardiothoracic program in Rockland and Orange Counties, our calling is getting you back to your calling.

A VANCING AD VA ANCING ING CARE. C CARE . HERE ERE.

T o read Michael’ Mich s story y,, visit To Michael’s story, GoodSamHosp.org/Cultur eofCare GoodSamHosp.org/CultureofCare

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WES WESTCHESTER TCHESTER MEDICAL CENTER HEAL HEALTH LTH TH T NETW NETWORK ORK enter l Maria F areri Childr en’s Hospital l Beha enter l MidHudson R egional Hospital W Westchester estchester Medical C Center Fareri Children’s Behavioral vioral Health C Center Regional amaritan Hospital l Bon Sec ours C ommunity Hospital l S ommunity Hospital Good S Samaritan Secours Community St. t. An Anthony thony C Community oadway Campus l HealthAllianc garetville Hospital HealthAllianc HealthAlliancee Hospital: Br Broadway HealthAlliancee Hospital: Mary’ Mary’ss A Avenue venue Campus l Mar Margaretville

CONTENTS 10

24

10 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MS Diagnosis Leads Ridgewood Family to Create Advance the Cure

14 EVENTS

Health, Beauty and Fitness Happenings Throughout the County

16 Five Great Benefits of Massage 18 Free Flowing?

20 Tongue-Tie

What Everyone Needs to Know

24 Your Body Language Talks

Here’s How to Read Others’ Visual Cues for Better Nonverbal Communications

34 26 Thrive Through and Beyond Divorce

46 44 AL DENTE DIVA

Al Dente Diva’s Ketogenic Diet-Friendly Recipes

28 Knowing Your Kids Might Be the Best Way to Keep Them Healthy

46 The Good Bite

34 Suns Out, Buns Out

56 Are There Sneaky Germs in Your Kitchen?

32 Five Ways to Raise a Confident, Adventurous Child 38 How To Become Your Best Self

40 Navigating the Obstacles of Disease Treatment

42 Five Digital Diet Solutions for Slim Down Success

52 From Corporate to Cakes How the Owner of Om Sweet Home Made Vegan Eating Mainstream

58 SOCIAL

A Glimpse Into Some of Bergen County’s Recent Health, Beauty and Fitness

66 The Link Between Heart Disease and Weight

Pictured: How'd Dawn Pascale make vegan eating mainstream? With these fresh donuts, of course! Taste them for yourself at Om Sweet Home, 709 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material provided in this publication is intended for informational purposes only.

Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health care provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition before undertaking any diet, exercise, health program or procedure set out in this publication.

You’ll feel it the moment you meet us.

Primary care is fundamental to good health. As a primary care physician, Dr. Diane Schwartz feels fortunate to get to know her patients over time, building relationships that can span decades. She understands her patients’ support networks — the family members, friends and community groups that are so critical to maintaining a healthy life.

Dr. Schwartz works with the people closest to her patients to deliver the best, most personalized care possible.

Experience the feeling of belonging that can only come from a healthcare team who really knows you, and knows how to care for you.

6Q Ć‚PF CP 'PINGYQQF *GCNVJ RJ[UKEKCP ECNN 833-234-2234 QT XKUKV englewoodhealthphysicians.org

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Advance the Cure MS Diagnosis Leads Ridgewood Family to Create

R

By Natalie Zisa

ich Giacopelli is one of the 2.5 million people worldwide currently living with Multiple Sclerosis, also known as MS. When Rich woke up one morning with his left arm completely numb, he thought he might’ve pinched a nerve, but each physical and occupational therapist he went to couldn’t diagnose him. He was sent to a neurologist for a nerve test, but instead he was strongly advised to get an MRI. Sure enough, the MRI showed scars on Rich’s spinal cord. Six months after the initial incident, Rich was told he had MS. At just 30 years old, with a 2-year-old son and a newborn on the way, Rich was “devastated” when he received the diagnosis. Living with MS is different for everybody, so he didn’t

know what his future looked like. He’s yet to meet anybody who has solely had their left side affected yet others have lost their vision.

“The needs for people with MS vary so drastically. There’s no true face of the disease.

There’s not one characteristic that will follow through,” explains Rich.

Rich and his wife, Christine, decided not to tell anybody about his diagnosis until it was strikingly noticeable. But the couple, who are current residents of Ridgewood, were surprised by the amount of people who started opening up to them. The number 2.5 million became more and more realistic as they met more people with MS or those who knew someone with it.

Just seven years after his diagnosis, Rich

walks with a cane and the left side of his body has lost most of its function. He’s still able to work, but he worries about the day he may lose his cognitive abilities.

“You’re facing the unknown. Could it stop and not spread? Yes, but also what is it going to attack next?” wonders Rich.

For Christine, the hardest part has been meeting people who are much further along.

“I meet with someone and each time I walk away crying because they all say, ‘Count your blessings; I was there at one point.’”

While the Giacopellis could sit by and consider themselves lucky, they’ve decided to use the time and advantages that they do have to help others in worse situations. In April 2017, the couple founded Advance the Cure for MS. They were compelled to start their own nonprofit because they felt that the National MS Society wasn’t doing enough to help individuals living with the disease. They felt that the money raised would be better spent in a smaller organization with a direct connection to patients.

Dr. Mary Ann Picone, director of Holy Name Hospital’s MS Center, which to agrees, which is

why when Rich and Christine asked her to serve on the medical advisory board of their foundation, she was thrilled to be a part of it.

“Although the MS Society has been helpful in funding large research grants, that doesn’t help in the here and now. Rich knows the struggles that patients go through on a daily basis and the needs of people with MS. That makes it even more valuable,” adds Dr. Picone.

One of the major components of Advance the Cure for MS is the patience assistance program, which is intended to provide MS patients with the accommodations they need, such as a walker, wheelchair or ramp. The average annual out-of-pocket patient expenses is $6,500, which ranks MS as the second highest in medical costs for chronic conditions. Christine considers this “the driving force” behind the whole thing. Though they’re personally able to keep up with the medical expenses, they recognize that other families aren’t as fortunate.

In one instance, they’re hoping to cover the expenses of a live-in aid for one woman in a very dire situation.

“The goal is that we want people to continue working and doing things as normally as BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 11

possible,” says Dr. Picone. “I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that nothing can be done or that once you have the diagnosis you’ll end up in a wheelchair and that’s really not the picture these days.”

Ultimately, when provided the right resources, more is made possible for people living with MS, but how can you do so if you can’t afford it?

On the other end of the solution is funding research towards finding a cure. Dr. Picone believes that Advance the Cure may be a good avenue to raise money for novel therapies that don’t get approved by typical research funding streams. It will be her responsibility, along with Matthew Schiebel, RN, to approve the funding.

She disclosed that certain therapies that help in slowing down disease progression already exist, and she’s optimistic about finding a cure, or at the very least making these therapies more mainstream.

Raising awareness around MS is also especially important. Christine reiterates that it’s only made aware that someone has MS when you can physically see it. On Nov. 3, 2018, Advance the Cure hosted an “Orange Out” in conjunction with the Ridgewood Junior Football Association. Each player and each cheerleader sported Advance the Cure apparel, while attendees were also encouraged to wear orange. All proceeds made from tent sales went directly towards the foundation. In addi-

tion to the Orange Out, Rich and Christine have organized smaller fundraisers, but each time it’s really required the support of their community.

“I was so scared to do this,” admits Christine, when talking about creating the foundation. “But the amount of support makes me feel silly I didn’t do this sooner.”

While they do believe that a bigger fundraiser, such as a gala is in their future, they’re proud of the work that they have done so far. They believe that they’ve brought their community together in a way that wouldn’t have been possible with a fundraiser that big, and their son and his friends are one example. Ryan, who is now

nine, has gone door-to-door informing people of Advance the Cure for MS and has raised money on his own.

“He wants to spread awareness rather than shutting down and his friends embrace it. Seeing the kids get involved…that’s why we chose not to have the gala. People can get involved without having to pay into something,” explains Christine.

Rich and Christine acknowledge that the foundation is still in its grassroots stage, but they’re confident this is just the beginning. It’s very likely that the more action the Giacopellis take, they’ll be met with even greater support from all over Bergen County. They just don’t know what they’re capable of yet.

advancethecure4ms.org

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 13

EVENTS •

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Mind, Body & Sole: Women’s Health and

Fitness Social Night will take place on Feb. 13

from 7-9 p.m. at Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, 411 East Clinton Ave.,Tenafly. Sponsored by En-

glewood Health and the JCC, break out your

most chic sneakers and casual wear for food and

“mocktail” tastings, meet-and-greet with doctors,

6 and April 3 from 10-11 a.m. at the Valley

able at www.pinningdownautism.org. All duals

necessary. Call (800) 825-5391 or visit Valley-

Pinning Down Autism.

Center for Health and Wellness, 1400 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah. Registration is Health.com/Events.

EAT WELL

Murphy on March 13 from 6-8 p.m. at Brandy-

bullying and social media responsibilities. The

ment, weight loss advice and much more.This is

wine Living at Mahwah, 814 Wyckoff Ave.

a free event, but preregistration is encouraged

by emailing communications@ehmchealth.org or calling (201) 894-3499.

SELF DEFENSE

• A women’s self defense class will be held

on Feb. 23 from 12:30-2 p.m. at Complete

Taekwon-Do, 109 North Washington Ave., Bergenfield. Master Laura Giletti, a 6th degree black belt, will teach the class. Cost: $20. For

more information, call (201) 244-8957 or visit www.CompleteTKD.com.

•

DADDY & DAUGHTER

Join Life Time Athletic, 10 Van Riper

Road, Montvale, for a Daddy-Daughter Dance

on Feb. 23 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dads and their girls will twirl the night away with memorable moments, including games, crafts, food and –

of course – dancing! Registration is needed.

Price: $40 per member couple; $60 per nonmember couple.

CATCH SOME ZZZs Learn what you can do to get a good • night’s sleep from infancy through adulthood on Feb. 28 from 7-8:30 p.m. at The Valley Center for Health and Wellness, 1400 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah. Registration is necessary. Call (800) 825-5391 or visit ValleyHealth.com/Events.

MOMMY & ME

• Moms, enjoy activities and mini health

tips with your little one, up to age 3, on March 14 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

•

MEN’S HEALTH

Parents and sons (9-12 years old) enjoy

dinner, fun activities and hear from a pediatri-

ful. Learn how to choose better foods for better

sessions, nutritional consultations, stress manage-

proceeds support local Autism charities and

• The benefits of healthy eating are bounti-

health screenings, fitness demos, aromatherapy, acupuncture, chair massages, yoga, meditation

will be live streamed on TrackWrestling. All

health at any stage of life with Dietitian Jaclyn

• Prediabetes increases the risk for devel-

oping diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Learn

what prediabetes is and what you can do to

help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes on March 26 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Ridgewood

Public Library, 125 N. Maple Ave., Ridgewood.

PRACTICE SELF CARE

• All ages and speeds are welcome to join

the Walking Club that meets on Tuesday morn-

ings from 9-9:45 a.m. through March at Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus. Meet at the food

court entrance under the AMC movie theater.

cian about the changes to expect in a young

boy’s body, including topics such as hygiene, event will take place on March 28 from 6:45-

8 p.m. at The Valley Center for Health and Wellness, 1400 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah. Registration is necessary. Call (800) 8255391 or visit ValleyHealth.com/Events.

• Your car gets regular oil changes. Do you

get regular checks on your health? Learn what you can do to stay healthy and enjoy life with Internist Kasem Ayoub on March 28 from 78:30 p.m. at the Mahwah Public Library, 100 Ridge Road, Mahwah.

FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS SUFFERERS

• Do you suffer from osteoarthritis? Join

For more information, call (877) 283-2276.

to learn about the latest treatment options, in-

burn-out and fatigue. Come and explore a

3 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Township of

•

Drumming is a wonderful way to take

care of yourself, as well as lessen feelings of

new/old way of having fun while reducing

stress. Classes will be held on Feb. 21, March

21, April 18 and May 23 from 5:15-6:30 p.m. at The Valley Center for Health and Wellness, 1400 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah. Regis-

cluding robotic-arm assisted surgery for people with arthritis of the hip and knee, on April

Washington Public Library, 144 Woodfield Ave., Township of Washington.

FROBOTIC TECHNOLOGY

• Save the date: Stryker Orthopaedics and

tration is necessary. Call (800) 825-5391 or

The Valley Hospital invite you to attend Joints

PINNING DOWN AUTISM

tour of Stryker’s state-of-the-art facility and

visit ValleyHealth.com/Events.

• The 2019 Pinning Down Autism All-Star

Duals, presented by multiple sponsors, will take place on March 17, beginning at 9 a.m. at Saint

Joseph Regional High School, 40 Chestnut Ridge, Road, Montvale. Teams from New Jer-

sey, New York, Virginia and more will take to

the wrestling mat at Saint Joseph's in an effort

to help support the local Autism communities.

Admission and online ticket details are avail-

in Motion: Robotic Technology to learn more

about robotic-arm assisted technology. Take a witness how a replacement joint is manufactured.The event will take place on May 4 from

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Stryker Orthopaedics, 925 Corporate Drive, Mahwah. For more information, call (201) 291-6467.

Have an event you’d like featured in Health, Beauty & Fitness? Send the necessary information to info@bcthemag.com for a chance to be included.

Five Great Benefits of Massage By Sheila M. Clancy MS, CHES

wenty years ago, massage was thought of as a foofy, pampering service for the rich and famous. It grew in popularity within the holistic medicine field, and today is a treatment approach that is offered in many different locations by experts in various disciplines. Many insurance companies are even providing coverage for massage as a treatment option for a variety of ailments.

So, how can massage help you?

There are different types of massage out there, but basically it is a treatment where the client lies on a table and a therapist performs a hands-on technique of pressing, rubbing and manipulating the body. If a person is holding tension in their muscles, tendons or connective tissues due to stress, overexertion or injury, a therapist can use different strokes to help release the tension within the body. Different types of massage include Swedish massage, sports massage,

T

16 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

trigger point massage and deep massage.

The therapist usually uses oil on their hands to be able to slide smoothly over the skin, and sometimes they will include the use of essential oils or hot stones. Here are the five great benefits of massage:

1) Muscle Relaxation.

Tense muscles can cause pain in the body, and can prevent us from being able to move freely through our full range of motion. As the therapist massages the muscles, the body increases circulation to those muscles, bringing nutrients and oxygen to the area. This helps to reduce stiffness and swelling that may be present.

Endorphins are released which in turn increases the production of dopamine and serotonin levels in the body. These hormones make us feel good and can help us to sleep better. This can in turn lessen the symptoms of depression.

2) Improve Circulation.

The long, smooth strokes of massage can increase circulation and bring more blood flow to the massaged area. This increased blood flow helps to improve lymph fluid circulation, which helps the body to carry metabolic waste products away from those muscles and internal organs. This can help the body to function better and can help to lower blood pressure.

3) Strengthen the Immune System.

Increases in blood flow and circulation bring the body many positive results. It can increase the body’s ability to deliver nourishment to muscles, cells and organs and can rid the body of damaging waste products. When the circulatory system is functioning at a high level you will have greater immunity.

4) Improve Posture.

As babies, we start out with unrestricted movement and essentially, good posture. As we progress through our lives, we use some muscles more than others based on our activities and our jobs. If we have a job where we sit all day, we start to hunch forward and slouch, and our hip flexors and hamstrings become tight. If we have experienced an injury, we may have started to favor different muscles to protect the injury. If we have gained weight over the years, we may be overstressing some muscles or putting extra pressure in some parts of the body. Massage can help to loosen those muscles that have become tight and can help loosen up some of the restrictions that have developed, allowing us to be able to move freely and to correct some of our postural issues.

5) Overall Relaxation.

The soft, smooth strokes of massage can feel good and can help us to relieve stress and tension. When we are able to take the

tension out of our bodies, it can help to decrease our cortisol production. High levels of cortisol are associated with poor sleep, weight gain (especially around the midsection), headaches and digestive issues.

Massage can feel great for people young and old. It may not, however, be appropriate for people who are taking blood-thinning medication, people with deep vein

thrombosis or those with severe osteoporosis. If you have a medical condition, check with your doctor to make sure massage will be safe for you. While our days are busy and we sometimes struggle to fit everything in, massage can help you to take time for yourself to relax and recharge.Try a massage today and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 17

FREE FLOWING? I

By Agatha Davis

t’s a common misconception: the older you get, the more frequently you need to use the bathroom at night. Did you know waking up more than once per night to urinate is a medical condition known as nocturia? Shockingly, 64 percent of American adults do not know.

A recent Harris Poll of more than 2,000 U.S. adults, endorsed by The Simon Foundation for Continence, National Association for Continence (NAFC) and the Prostate Conditions Education Council (PCEC), found that approximately one-third of them suffer from nocturia. Nocturia, which forces individuals to get up more than once per night to urinate, is a leading cause of sleep loss and can put one’s health at risk.

“Before receiving treatment for nocturia, I typically wound up making five trips to the bathroom each night, which 18 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Waking up to go to the bathroom multiple times per night?

It’s not because you’re ‘getting old.’

I knew wasn’t normal,” said Jack Fagan, a 67-year-old resident of Sewell. “Treatment has made a noticeable impact on my quality of sleep. I find myself more refreshed and have the energy to enjoy time with family and friends.”

Most people living with nocturia (72 percent) reported they are negatively impacted by the condition at night; 43 percent of whom have trouble falling back to sleep, 12 percent indicated they wake up their partners and 10 percent expressed nervousness about tripping or falling while walking to the bathroom.

The impact of nocturia-induced sleep loss can be wide-ranging, affecting physical and mental health. Sixty-one percent of nocturia sufferers experience daytime issues as a result of nighttime urination, including: drowsiness, irritability and reduced productivity and concentration.

Sixty-six percent of nocturia suffer-

ers surveyed have never discussed their symptoms with a healthcare professional; half of respondents reported they thought it was a normal part of aging, and 27 percent believed nothing could be done to remedy the problem.

“We see patients who have suffered with nocturia for many years, as it slowly progresses from getting up twice to over four times per night to urinate,” said Roger Dmochowski, M.D., a nocturia sufferer and professor within the department of urologic surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “In my personal and professional experience, nocturia can have serious implications for an individual’s emotional state and daily life, due to sleep disruption, if not diagnosed and treated. Up until recently, we didn’t have effective treatments.”

For more information on nocturia, visit www.simonfoundation.org/nocturia.

Tongue-Tie

What Everyone Needs to Know

A

By Robyn Merkel-Walsh MA, CCC-SLP

s a speech pathologist for over 24 years, I have seen many patients with various diagnoses. Since my practice specializes in oral motor and feeding disorders, I meet many patients who have been struggling with speech and feeding issues for some time, often with limited progress.

Most concerning is the pediatric referrals, with frantic, sleep deprived parents who are doing everything possible to help their infant stay hydrated and thriving. Too often a simple symptom was missed, a tongue-tie.

Take, for example, my former patient Molly (name has been changed for privacy). Molly’s mother emailed my office because her 18-month-old daughter was 20 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

still using a bottle, would barely eat pureed foods, gagged and choked on solids and could not drink from a straw or cup. Everyone thought Molly was just being stubborn or picky, but not Molly’s mom. After months of concern, the pediatrician gave a referral for a feeding evaluation. As soon as I read the case history forms, I immediately knew that a tongue-tie assessment was needed.

When I got the full story, feeding issues started at birth. Molly’s mother was not successful at breastfeeding. She had a great deal of pain and Molly was losing weight.

Mom was very disappointed and frustrated as she wanted to breastfeed, but did not want Molly to be under nourished. She had seen a lactation consultant (IBCLC) that

suggested tongue-tie, but the pediatrician did not feel it was an issue. The plan was to pump breast milk and use a bottle. Bottle feedings were not great either. Molly was always “colicky” and spit up often. Reflux medication was prescribed, but it did not really help. It was a constant struggle.

Molly did not like pureed foods when introduced and when Gerber Puffs and Cheerios were started, Molly’s mom stated that it was like she had no idea what to do with them. They would just sit in her mouth, or she would pocket them like a chipmunk.

Eventually Molly would scream and cry at each meal, and PediaSure was her main source of nutrition.

When I assessed Molly, I found that the lactation consultant was right; she clearly

had a tongue-tie, but it was not the type most people are used to seeing. Most people are used to an “anterior” tongue-tie that causes the tongue to be heart shaped and is attached to the tongue tip.

Molly’s issue was different. It was not attached to the tongue tip, but rather it was a short, thick band of fiber located posteriorly, behind the salivary duct. This is known as a posterior tie, and often missed by medical professionals. Why is this happening? It is happening mainly because the training of Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) occurs on a post-graduate level and is sought by the professional voluntarily. Dr. Anthony Jahn, a well-respected New Jersey/New York City-based otolaryngologist claims, “You can’t see what you don’t know,” and this is very true of TOTS. Molly came for pre-operative sessions so help prepare her for a frenectomy, and then came for therapy for 6 months after the surgery. She learned to eat purees, solids and drink through a straw and cup.

She is now a happy and thriving preschooler who eats a variety of foods and no longer has reflux symptoms. A seemingly simple problem was clearly overlooked, and this happens too often in my practice.

What Is A Tongue-Tie? Most people use the term “tonguetied” when they do not know what to say, but tongue-tie is an actual medical diagnosis that can impact the way people eat and/or speak. Ankyloglossia is the medical term for a tongue-tie. It is a restriction of the frenulum located under

the tongue. A frenulum is supposed to be like a stretchy band that helps the tongue’s movement, but sometimes people are born with an abnormal or restricted frenulum. The lingual frenulum is one of seven frena in the mouth. Four buccal frena (upper and lower), two labial frena (upper and lower) and one lingual frenulum exist, and any one of them can be “tied” or restricted. This is called Tethered Oral Tissue or TOTs. Lip-tie is often corrected when a person has a gap between the two front teeth.

TOTs does not just impact babies and young children. I see patients in my office across the lifespan. Signs and symptoms of TOTs also include: reflux/aero digestive issues, orthodontic issues, sleep apnea and TMJ. TOTs may cause tightness of the head and neck, which results in pain and discomfort. The red flags of TOTs are: feeding difficulties; speech clarity issues; orthodontic problems; chronic jaw, head or neck pain; and reflux.

How Does Tongue-Tie or TOTs Cause Problems?

So, what are the symptoms? In infancy, the first sign is breastfeeding difficulty such as maternal pain and failure to thrive (gain weight). This, however, is only one issue that can be impacted by TOTs as symptoms can cross the life span. As babies grow, they may seem to have picky eating habits, just like Molly. They may also seem to have developmental speech problems, like a lisp, but the root of the problem is structural.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 21

was thrown out with the bath water, leading to tongue-tie surgery being somewhat of a taboo.

Now that the World Health Organization (WHO) supports breastfeeding based on important research, tongue-tie is a hot topic, and there is controversy on when to perform the surgery and how. TOTs is not a condition that all medical professionals are trained in, so the surge of frenectomies may seem to be a fad to some, TOTs expert Dr. Bobby Ghaheri argues that it is more likely due to increased awareness and genetics that have TOTs identification on the rise.

How Is TOTs Treated?

For many years, it was commonplace for newborns to have the tongue-tie “clipped� before being discharged from the hospital. Doctors thought it helped with breastfeeding. This procedure is known as a frenectomy, which Molly eventually had as a part of her care. Unfortunately, tonguetie was also mistakenly clipped, for individuals who stuttered or had speech delays.

Perhaps the procedure was done too freely.

Then, with the formula feeding surge in the 70s, the surgery rate dropped and the baby 22 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Finding Help TOTS treatment can be complex as there are many professionals who make up a TOTs team. In the tristate area, parent advocate Krysten Glor created the New York and New Jersey Tongue-Tie Group on Facebook to help parents find the right providers. TOTs care involves a team of professionals that provide pre- and postoperative interventions, such as: chiropractors; international board certified lactation consultants; occupational and/or physical therapists; registered dental hygienists; speech-language pathologists; and surgeons.

If you suspect that you or your child has TOTs, the first step is speaking to your

physician. There are many organizations that can help with a referral to a highly trained provider and/or therapist, including Ankyloglossia Bodyworkers; International Association of Orofacial Myology; International Consortium for Ankylofrenula Professionals; International Association of Tongue-tie Professionals; and TalkTools.

Patients should schedule their functional assessment prior to any surgical procedure and have their therapist of choice on deck to assist with aftercare.

Robyn Merkel-Walsh is a speech-language pathologist residing and practicing in Bergen County for over two decades. She is employed by the Ridgefield Board of Education, TalkTools and has a private practice in Ridgefield. She is the author and presenter or many articles and texts, including The Functional Assessment and Remediation of Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), co-authored with Lori Overland. Robyn has been awarded NJ Top Docs and is the board chair of the Oral Motor Institute.

Robyn can be reached at robynslp95@aol.com.

ERIC ALT

SALON

HOUSE OF BLONDE SADDLE RIVER | 201.438.0900

By Roslyn Rolan

T

he movement of the hands, legs, body and facial expressions are all considered “body language,” an important means of nonverbal communication.

Since your body language – accounting for more than 55 percent of the total message you project – can work either for you or against you, it’s important to control your physical gestures so they are in synch with what you are saying.

It may not be fair but it’s true – your physical appearance matters. You have less than ten seconds to make a good personal and professional impression on those your meet. The first thing people notice about you is your overall presence and posture.

People are affected by how well groomed 24 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Here’s How to Read O thers’ Visual C ues for Better Nonver bal Commu nication s

you are, then your posture, followed by your facial expressions.

They will make their judgments about you on these qualities before you say one word! After the initial contact, people will then be influenced by your eye contact, your handshake and tone of your voice. Walking with good posture, your head erect and a smile on your face is the best way to make a great initial impression. When you approach someone, look directly into their eyes and present a firm, non-sweaty handshake.

After maintaining eye contact for at least four seconds, you can adjust your gaze to their “safety zone,” which is the space be-

tween their eyebrows. When you do this, the person will still think you are looking at their eyes, but it will prevent you from staring.

Always be prepared to shake hands by keeping a cotton handkerchief in your right jacket or pants pocket. This will prevent you from presenting a sweaty or wet right handshake.

Having a cotton handkerchief is also important during table etiquette. It is not polite to use a restaurant’s cloth napkin for personal hygiene. Your own handkerchief is used for sneezing and coughing. If your sneezing persists, excuse yourself and go to the restroom to properly blow your nose.

In our society so rich in multicultural traditions, it is a definite advantage to be able to recognize the guidelines that apply to specific ethnic groups. When meeting someone new, we should take care to respect personal boundaries. This means that we must remain at arms’ length, approximately 24 inches, away from the person we are greeting. By maintaining this distance, you are demonstrating respect for their personal space.

Each movement and posture of our bodies communicates a message. Whether we sit, stand, shuffle our feet, drum our fingers, tap or chew a pencil, fidget with our hair, touch our face, play with keys or change in our pocket, our actions reveal our unspoken thoughts. Therefore, we must strive for a congruency between what we say and how we move, because people most often tend to believe what they see, not what they hear.

One of the most common gestures is standing or sitting with your arms crossed against your chest. There are many interpretation of that gesture. If your arms are crossed with your hands shown, that is just a comfortable, resting position. However, if your arms are crossed and either of your hands is not seen, or your knuckles are white, this tends to be perceived as a negative and more confrontational stance.

It is key to remember that you should always show your hands. The reason is simple: keeping your hands hidden makes it seem as if you are hiding something in your conversation; that you are not speaking honestly about a topic.

To be an effective communicator, you must also know how to “read” the visual cues of others. This will help you in all of your negotiations. Understanding these body language cues in context with someone’s body language and tone of voice will help you understand what they are truly communicating. This is a critical tool in “winning” any negotiation, not only in business, but also in every aspect of your life.

Remember, people believe what they see, not what they hear. Your body language can support or diminish your professional image. It can either enhance your attractiveness or have the opposite effect. It is the silent message that speaks volumes about who you are, without your saying one word!

Roslyn Rolan, C.I.P., certified professional image, wardrobe & etiquette coach and trainer, is owner of The Image & Etiquette Institute of N.J.LLC in Fort Lee. For more information, visit www.imageandetiquette.com.

Guide to Deciphering Visual Cues Action ........................................Message Stands tall & erect ...................Confident Stands slumped with head bowed ........................Insecure Uses wide, large gestures .........Open to conversation Uses small, closed gestures .....Shy or unsure Has lots of smile lines...............Positive attitude Rubbing chin .............................Thinking, undecided Rubbing back or neck ..............Unsure, incredulous Head scratch ............................Puzzled One-sided smile .......................Sarcastic Unblinking gaze.........................Threatening One eyebrow raised ..................Skeptical Touching/rubbing nose ............Lying or disbelieving Body leaning forward ...............Interested Touching mouth .........................Something to hide Legs/ankles wrapped ..............Insecure Legs crossed, ankle on knee ............................Stubborn, immovable Arms crossed tightly.................Defensive Arms crossed, hands seen relaxed ..............................Just comfortable Arms behind back,

hands folded ..............................Thoughtful, relaxed Head tilt ....................................Empathetic

THRIVE

d   B d  h g  r 

DIVORCE

By Jacqui Atcheson

H

ere are very difficult thoughts for anyone contemplating or in the midst of divorce: How can I survive divorce? How is this achievable? Is it really possible?

The answer is yes – with proper thought, preparation, education and planning. Let’s start by understanding two common mistakes, emotion and unrealistic expectations and how to overcome them.

Es

Fear, anger, depression, sadness, frustration and – sometimes – happiness are all feelings that are commonly experienced during divorce. Most folks initially panic and the “fight, flight or freeze” portion of their brain takes over.

Their “thinking” brain no longer exists.

Only once they are in the “thick of it” do they seek professional advice. When you get caught up in the emotions, which you need to feel and acknowledge, is when you can make the costliest mistakes, both financially and to your children.

Remember, fear feeds conflict. Learn what you can and can’t control. You can’t control the legal system, your divorcing spouse, your lawyer, your children, the timing or the cost.

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Preparation naturally eases some of the fear. Having an experienced team of divorce professionals that you are comfortable with is critical. Getting a divorce coach in place at the onset is essential.

Among other things, they can assist you in preparing a list of questions to ask attorneys and professionals that you are interviewing. Becoming educated on the process and knowing the different divorce options and what works best for you is critical. This is ultimately your life. You need to be the one in control.

U Es

You may be optimistic and think you are entitled to everything. You think that’s fair. Well, your spouse probably has the same thoughts. Fair is in the eyes of the beholder. The courts don’t award you emotional justice; it’s a legal system, which weighs facts and the law.

Fact: Ninety to 95 percent of cases settle out of court. Do you really want to spend extended time and money in a court battle only to end up with a disheartened settlement? Oftentimes, the judge will re-direct you to other sources of conflict resolution, as courts don’t really want to

be in charge of decisions regarding your family’s well-being.

What is the remedy for unrealistic expectations? Make a list of the three things you must have. Then, make a second list of the three things you would like to have. Lastly, make a third list: in a perfect world, what would be nice to have but you would be willing to let go of? Now, try to figure out what your exspouse must have, would like to have and would be willing to let go of.

While this is an extremely stressful time in your life, don’t place blame and don’t be a victim. Take responsibility.

You don’t have to do it alone, but let’s begin to get you into the next part of your life’s journey.

Jacqui Atcheson is a Certified Divorce Coach and Certified Divorce Mediator that specializes in working with her clients starting at the earliest stages of divorce. She help her clients get certainty about what they want, control over their future and peace of mind knowing they made the best possible decisions.

Her passion for helping others through divorce began as a personal mission in 1979 and became her profession in 1996.

For more information, visit her website at www.betterpathtodivorce.com.

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Knowing Your Kids Might Be the Best Way to Keep Them Healthy

By Stacie Rose

I

f you’ve arrived at the point in your life where you don’t care much about “keeping up with the Joneses,” bravo! When it comes to kids it can be easy to get sucked into the same old cycle of comparing and worrying about what others are up to. Sure, it’s good to know that you’re not alone in your parental woes from time-to-time. It’s nice to know that other kids misbehave, talk back, task you with selective listening and, even worse, no listening.

With social media swallowing up your senses, it can be hard to listen to your heart, trust your own intuition and keep your family’s needs in perspective.

A good place to come back to is you – your home; your life; and your child. If things are right, they will generally feel right. If something is wrong, you will know it in your gut.

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Good Sleep

You can look at the guidelines for kids, talk with your pediatrician, your friends and read every book, but only you know how much sleep your child needs to be the lovely, unique, rainbowspirit they are.You also know what lack of sleep will do, what you can get away with from time-to-time and what amount will produce zombie-toasted, horror-nuggets that will leave the universe reeling.

Don’t take this lightly. Lack of sleep can tragically affect focus and moods and weaken the immune system. This is serious stuff and you must rely on your knowledge of your own child and make their Zzzzs a huge priority. So, what if they go to bed without a bath from time-to-time? Maybe they didn’t like dinner and eat enough. It’s okay. Get those kids to bed!

Good Nutrition

Stressing about your kid’s nourishment comes with the parenting territory. Teaching your child about nutritious food is so important. The more they know, the better able they will be to make wise choices. Remember though, kids are kids and often want what other kids are having.You don’t want your kids growing up hiding sweets under their beds, so there must be some compromise.

Knowing your kid really comes into play here. Perhaps you can pack something super healthy with something you know they will be psyched to have. An example would be cut up an apple with a couple of cookies or crudité, such as sliced cucumbers and celery with the side of popcorn. You could do watermelon and yogurt.

But don’t just give in and send cupcakes and Doritos.

Sugar Shakes

If sugar causes your child to be irritable, shaky, unfocused and wide-awake at bedtime, be smart about it. You can help them chose foods with less sugar and avoid candy and cake and the like.

You can make these things “special occasion” fare and limit the amount. You can make family rules, such as no more sugar after 4:30 p.m., to avoid bedtime turning into “beast time.” You can make your own treats using maple syrup, honey or just less sugar.

Avoiding high fructose corn syrup can be half the battle. Knowing how things affect your child is the ticket. Just because someone else’s child can eat three pieces of cake and guzzle four juice boxes does not mean you should give in. Protect your child by teaching them what works for them.

Sensitive Stuff

Is your child shy? Perhaps you find yourself continually coercing your child to say hello to people, to hug friends of the family and wave to people. It’s nice to be friendly and important to be respectful. But, what if your child is uncomfortable being extroverted and doesn’t want to say hello or give a hug? Sometimes a little time and respect for his or her feelings makes all the difference.

Do you recall potty training? You can try every method, but when your child is ready, he or she is ready. Keep encouraging your child to acknowledge those around them like crossing guards who cross them each day or shopkeepers in the neighborhood.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 29

Make sure they feel safe and that they know you have their back and are always keeping a watchful eye. Let them know that as long as they stay by your side, they are safe and can warm up when they are ready. Kids learn by example, so if you are kind to friends and neighbors that’s what they will see. You can also incentivize them to be kind by creating a chart or letting them earn points or marbles in a jar and working toward something they love, like a trip to the movies or the bowling alley.

Focusing on What Matters

So many kids struggle with focus, especially little ones. Does your child get enough positive reinforcement? It’s a huge help with virtually all kids, and adults for that matter. We all love positive reinforcement and this may really boost your child’s self esteem and confidence with focus. A simple, “I’m proud of you” or a “What can I do to help?” or “I’m here to help you” can go a long way. Sometimes simply asking your child what they are struggling with can be helpful.There could be a child at school who is bothering them. Maybe they are not eating enough during the school day or getting enough exercise.

If something seems amiss, it may be time to meet with your child’s teachers. A trusted pediatrician is always a good resource.

The most important thing is to be present with your child so you 30 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

can know what and how they are feeling and what they may be up against. Some kids can focus better in certain situations. Some kids need a little help and some need a lot of help, but knowing and understanding your kid and facing their needs head on could make all the difference.

When Enough is Enough

Sometimes kids do not get enough “me time.” They may not tell you. Or, they may come right out and tell you that they have too much on their plate. Keeping up with the other kids and other families for your own social reasons or, even worse, status reasons can be a huge disservice to your child. Kids have more work these days and are expected to keep up and stay on task. They are expected to be model citizens practically from birth.

Many parents and caregivers are worried about their kids being well rounded and have them in every activity. What they ought to consider is how well adjusted the children are. Half the battle here is knowing your child. Help them create space, if they need it. Ditch an activity or two, if they feel overwhelmed. School is a lot. There is plenty of time for extracurricular activities. Be kind to your kids and they will be grateful and probably show you a whole lot of love because they will know that you’ve got their back.

Crowd Control

Some kids flat out do not like crowds. This can be a conundrum since there will be social events and heavily attended parties. Many times there will be strangers, a lot of noise and the potential for kids to become overwhelmed. Some things you might consider: how important is it that we attend this particular event? I bet you can send a gift and sit some of them out.

Some events will be important for your family. Getting there early can be a big help. Let the crowd mount around your child instead of walking them into chaos. Even getting your kid to school early can help. Briefing your child so they know what to expect can be a useful tool. Keeping close to your child and knowing when it’s time to go can make all the difference. Other parents and people in general will understand. If they don’t, then that is too bad. Your priority is your child and your child’s level of comfort and safety. It’s not that you should coddle your child and let them rule the roost. It’s that you should decide what situations will be beneficial and which will be detrimental. This comes with knowing your child and making a good call on their behalf.

Your Beautiful Snowflake

You’ve heard the saying that children are like snowflakes, right?

Like a snowflake, each child is totally unique and individual. Your child may be sensitive. Perhaps they don’t like to be teased. Maybe they don’t like surprises or crowds. Perhaps they do better in small groups. Maybe your kid loves art, maybe not. As life goes on we learn that things are better when they happen naturally, when they feel comfortable, authentic, organic and not forced. This is the same with kids.

They are so smart. They know their minds. They know their hearts.The trouble is that it can be hard for children to articulate their feelings and even harder for them to advocate for themselves. You might have a child who can really speak up and that’s a wonder and a relief. But some kids need a little help, some coaxing and a lot of understanding. Asking the right questions without pushing can be huge. If your child does not like to chat after school because he or she is tired why not give them some time

to unwind and then ask them specific questions about their day?

Sometimes if you begin to talk about your day they will join in.

They may not be hungry for breakfast one morning. Okay, so they probably won’t starve if they don’t eat a great breakfast one morning. Think about big picture and little picture, but don’t get too caught up in micromanaging your child from A to Z. Let them be little. This will give you an opportunity to experience them as they are. Love them up and love them up some more, but do your best to put aside the gadgets, the expectations and the hang-ups you have and be present enough to know your kid and nurture them like only you can.

Stacie Rose is a singer/songwriter, mother, producer, lover, blogger, integrative nutrition health coach, holistic lifestyle influencer and free spirit. She’s super passionate about making music, writing and helping others create sustainable wellness.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 31

Five Ways to Raise a Confident, Adventurous Child

By Jacqueline Hope

rom taking steps toward the stairs to learning that bubbles don’t taste good, exploration is a part of development for babies and young children. While it’s an exciting time, it also can be coupled with anxiety and hesitation as parents find themselves saying “no” or jumping in when baby discovers a new space.

An Open for Adventure survey from Babyganics found a majority of parents (69 percent) believe a child can learn to be more confident if he or she is allowed to explore freely as a baby. However, letting go doesn’t always come naturally for parents.

Clinical Health Psychologist Dr. Bobbi Wegner encourages parents to be explorer parents, which focuses on raising resilient, confident and adventurous humans through challenge and discovery. She offers these tips for parents:

F

Aid in discovery.

Encourage and applaud baby’s healthy risk-taking, such as mastering a challenging stair climb or pushing through moments of frustration and failure. Additionally, create teachable moments that introduce your child to necessary limits. For example, if you have hot coffee in the morning and your little one wants to touch the mug, let him or her gently touch a warm area of the mug with a fingertip and repeat that the mug is “hot” to help encourage exploration and flex baby’s senses.

Let baby be free.

While you may think baby gadgets are necessary for playtime, consider rethinking those toys. Instead of searching for stimulation through lights and sounds from a toy, allow your baby to explore the natural environment. Look for opportunities that allow him or her to make a manageable mess and even get wet or dirty. This could be as simple as playing with a container filled with water or letting your baby pull up grass in the backyard. These small-unstructured play adventures can help develop independence and confidence.

Engage the senses.

Exposing your baby to new flavors and smells helps engage him or her on a multi-sensory level. For example, allowing your baby (at an appropriate age, typically between 4-7 months) to try new

foods can provide a feeling of accomplishment while also exposing him or her to different textures and flavors. Encourage even more sensory exploration by allowing your baby to smell the food and even play with it using his or her fingers.

Provide early exposure to new places.

Bringing baby along to restaurants and other public spaces allows for positive exposure to new places, people and sounds, which can help build the immune system, encourage social interaction and support development. While letting a child explore in a public setting like an airport or train station can make many parents anxious, carrying products such as alcohol-free hand sanitizing wipes can help ease parents’ apprehension and keep little hands germ-free while on the go.

Wait a moment.

It’s common for parents to intervene the moment baby awakes from a nap or starts moving toward the stairs. Try pausing, allowing your little one to naturally find his or her limits while managing your own fears and worries. This tactic can allow your young explorer an opportunity for cognitive and socialemotional development with you as a safety net nearby.

“Parents often look to their own internal response to guide parenting: ‘If I am worried then it must be dangerous, and I should not allow my baby to do it,’” Wegner said. “When in fact, parents should prioritize their baby’s exploration and needs to provide learning opportunities rather than allowing their own anxieties to impede their children.”

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 33

, t u O s Sun t u O s n u B Enjoying the sun while looking at supplements that reduce your chance of skin cancer.

By Ben Becker

S

pring is upon us, and that means cookouts with friends, much needed vacations, and a substantially increased risk of skin cancer.

If that last one caught you off guard, this article’s for you. Nutrition has been found to play a critical role in preventing certain diseases, and skin cancer is no exception. While there’s no excuse for skipping your daily fruits and veggies, research shows that at least with skin cancer, that might not be enough.According to a meta-analysis of nine studies, a diet high in fruits and vegetables was not linked to reduced melanoma rates. Fortunately, modern research has shown that supplementing a balanced diet with specific vitamins holds some promise.

34 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

The T Perfmers Vitamin A

Supplementing your diet with Vitamin A1 (retinol) might reduce your risk of skin cancer, especially if you’re already careful about using proper sunscreen. Consumption of retinol has been shown in some studies to reduce melanoma rates, but be aware that beta-carotene (the plant form of Vitamin A) has not. Your body naturally converts betacarotene into retinol, but the two act a little different physiologically. In the study, researchers linked highdosage retinol consumption of >1800 mcg/day to a reduced risk of skin cancer in women.

Don’t overdo it. As opposed to betacarotene, retinol can be toxic or even fatal if over-consumed,

and there have been studies linking elevated dosages of retinol to bone weakness. Pregnant women especially should not take high-dose retinol as it can cause birth defects. The NIH-recommended daily dosage for adults is 700-900 mcg daily (3,000 mcg/day maximum). More studies are in the works for retinol, and until then you should be fine just taking the recommended daily dose.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B is actually a group of eight different vitamins, with distinct functions in your body, and only one of the B vitamins has been linked to lower skin cancer rates. In a study of 386 high-risk patients with a previous history of nonmelanoma skin cancer, high doses of Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide, a form of niacin) was shown to reduce the chances of new skin cancer by 20 percent.

Again, stick to the recommended daily dosage of 14-18 mg (maximum 35 mg). Vitamin B3 can cause headache, dizziness, and an increased risk of liver damage at high dosages, so don’t increase your B vitamin intake without consulting your doctor first.

Vitamin D

There’s been widely publicized evidence for Vitamin D’s ability to reduce your risk of colon or breast cancer, but results for skin cancer are mixed.

Even if it doesn’t prevent skin cancer, some studies indicate that Vitamin D supplements might reduce the stage or thickness of a skin cancer growth when it first develops and improve survival rates of patients receiving therapy for melanoma. It’s important to distinguish here that these studies are not saying that Vitamin D can be used to treat cancer – they only say that Vitamin D might make patients with skin cancer less likely to develop a particularly severe form, and might have been related to better treatment outcomes in patients who were also receiving proper medical treatment. The recommended daily dosage for Vitamin D is 600 IU. BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 35

Lile Evidence f Vitamin E, Selenium  Multivitamins

There’s no current indication that Vitamin E or selenium have any impact on your chances of developing skin cancer and although multivitamins have been shown to reduce the likelihood of developing cancer overall, they haven’t shown much for skin cancer specifically.

Antiidants Do We in the Lab, But N the Real Wld

Grape Sd Extract

Research on grape seed extract and skin cancer is limited, but animal studies and preliminary human studies have yielded some positive results. Grape seed extract given to mice was associated with a decrease in UV-induced skin tumor development, for example. Additionally, in a study of 830 subjects, researchers found a 69 percent reduction in odds of squamous cell carcinoma in the 17 subjects who reported taking supplemental grape seed extract.

Before you get too excited, remember that wine is not a sufficient source of grape seed.The average grape seed extract dosage wasn’t reported in the human survey study, and there are no established daily-recommended dosages.Typically, doses range from 50 to 300 mg per day.

Where Science Dsn’t Sut the Hype

For the following supplements, you may have heard promising stories, but the truth is we just haven’t studied these compounds well enough yet. Some have been the subjects of multiple studies with conflicting conclusions, and others might just not be effective in reducing your risk of skin cancer at all.

Vitamin C Might be Bad  Gd

Despite Vitamin C’s claimed benefits, we still don’t know enough about it’s impact on our bodies, at least in relation to skin cancer. One small Italian study suggested that Vitamin C had a protective effect against skin cancer, but other researchers are saying that the evidence is still inconclusive. A group of American researchers have even said that too much Vitamin C could be bad. In a large study of 121,700 female nurses, researchers were surprised to find a link between high Vitamin C consumption from foods and elevated skin cancer rates. But don’t panic.The quantity of Vitamin C consumed in this study was far beyond the daily-recommended dosage of 75-90 mg. Interestingly, women who got little Vitamin C from foods, but took it as a supplement, did not experience an increased cancer risk.

Specific antioxidants have demonstrated the ability to prevent and kill cancer cells when examined under a microscope, but antioxidants in general haven’t shown this same effect when studied as a broad category in human research.This might be due to poor study design. Patients were often surveyed about their reported use of “antioxidants,” but that broad term could have encompassed everything from chocolate to the vitamins listed above. It could also be that the effect of too much sun exposure is still more important than antioxidant consumption in developing skin cancer.

Ready. Set. Spring.

We’ve given you a summary of relevant research on skin cancer, but before you race out to buy a list of spring supplements, discuss them with your doctor and make sure you check data from Labdoor, a privately held medical company registered in San Francisco, Calif., to find out exactly how much of each vitamin you’ll be getting and if they’re safe. All in all, if you eat a balanced diet, get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals, and follow proper sun safety behavior – always apply sunscreen 30 minutes in advance and limit your time spent under direct sunlight – you’ll be in better shape to enjoy your next day in the great outdoors.

By Jacqueline Hope

A

sk yourself the following questions.Are you truly who you want to be? Is this the life you really want? Are you living each day as your best self? What can you change today?

How would you answer those questions? Think about your daily life. Are you thriving, or going through the motions? Are your days full of work, relationships and activities that are true to your authentic self or do you feel trapped on a treadmill of responsibility? If you dream of a better life, now is the time to turn your dream into reality.

The tools you need to design a life that is fulfilling on the deepest levels are within your grasp. Written

by Mike Bayer, known to the thousands of clients whose lives he has changed as Coach Mike, “Best Self” can show you how.

Bayer has helped everyone from pop stars to business executives to people just like you discover the freedom to be their best selves. By asking them

38 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

and leading them to ask themselves a series of important but tough questions, such as, “What are your core values?,” “Do you go to bed each day more knowledgeable than when you woke up?” and “Am I neglecting some aspect of my physical health out of fear or denial?,” he helps them see what their “Best Selves” and “Anti-Selves” really look like. As a mental health specialist, a personal development coach and an all-around change agent, Bayer has seen the amazing ways in which lives can improve with honesty and clarity. He understands the daily struggles people face intimately, because he’s faced – and overcome – his own, and he knows that change is possible.

By working through each of the Seven SPHERES of Life – Social, Personal, Health, Education, Relationships, Employment and Spiritual Development – “Best Self” is an accessible and interactive book that distills all of Bayer’s wisdom into a compact, focused guide that can ignite your desire for change.

The Seven

SPHERES

of Life

Social

Take a look at your social life in terms of your communication skills and dive into how you feel in your own skin when interacting with others.

Personal

In attempting to be your personal best self, work to have an abundance of respect and compassion for yourself.

Take care of yourself by nurturing an authentic, positive self-image to see benefits reach other spheres of your life.

Health

If you’re unhealthy, it’s difficult to be your best self in other areas. The goal should be to act in your own best interests when it comes to your physical health in order to feel your best and be at your best.

Education

Even if you didn’t enjoy school or believe you simply don’t like the process of taking in new information, you may still be thirsty for knowledge in areas that interest you on a deeper level. Find what quenches your unique interests and explore the best methods to learn in those areas.

Relationships

From time to time, relationships can get out of balance. However, you can be proactive about doing your part to get them back to equilibrium by determining ways to control your authenticity and what you can do when those around you aren’t reflecting their own.

Employment

Determine whether you’re acting as your best self at work just as you are at home. If you can’t be yourself at work, you may be wasting valuable time. Don’t lose yourself in a fear of trying to be something you aren’t while on the job.

Spiritual Development

The place within you from which goodness radiates can be described as your spiritual self. It’s where you form integrity, values and treatment of other people, so focus on aligning those traits with your vision of your best self.

Learn more about how to become your best self and take a self-assessment quiz at coachmikebayer.com/book.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 39

Navigating the Obstacles of Disease Treatment

By Richard Wilcott

A

diagnosis of a chronic condition, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, cancer or diabetes, can bring a swirl of thoughts and emotions.There may be relief at finding an explanation for bothersome symptoms, but insurance issues, financial concerns and worry about the future often quickly overshadow that relief.

If you’ve recently received a chronic diagnosis, take it one step at a time to navigate the road ahead.

Understand Your Condition

Arming yourself with information is critical when you receive a life-altering diagnosis. It’s important to understand everything you can about the condition, including known causes, symptoms you may experience, what you can expect as the disease progresses and more.

Identify Treatment Options

A big part of your research will likely involve your treatment options. If your doctor has outlined multiple options for treatment, you’ll want to investigate each one thoroughly so you can understand the benefits and risks, as well as deciding which option is the best fit for your particular circumstances. You’ll also want to confirm that your treatment is covered by your health insurance and at what level.

Handle Insurance Issues

Most people assume that if they have health coverage, they can count on at least a portion of the treatments and medications their doctor recommends being covered.

In many cases, that’s true, although the exact coverage depend on variables like your plan, deductible and more.

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However, there are also some circumstances in which you may experience a delay before you’re able to follow your doctor’s treatment orders. One example is step therapy, a protocol sometimes used by health insurance companies that requires patients to try and fail on one or more lower cost medications before they will provide coverage for the medication originally prescribed by the patient’s provider.

Step therapy is also known as “fail first” because it requires a patient to fail on an insurer-preferred drug first. For patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, this protocol may result in worsened health outcomes. A survey by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation found that as many as 40 percent of IBD patients had been subject to step therapy, and 58 percent of those patients were required to fail two or more drugs before being granted access to the drug their doctor originally prescribed.

“During these delays in optimal treatment, patients are at risk, not only for their physical well-being, but also for their quality of life,” said Dr. Ross Maltz, co-chair of the Government and Industry Affairs Committee of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s National Scientific Advisory Committee. “In some instances, insurance policies can impede patient access to the care they need and affect the patient and provider decision-making process.”

Groups are working to change this process through legislative reform, but in the meantime, if you are subject to a step therapy requirement by your insurance provider, you can appeal.The best approach is to work with your doctor to prepare a written letter that contains: • A clear statement that you are appealing a denial of coverage for your prescribed medication.

• The name of the medication that was denied.

• A detailed explanation of previous treatments or factors that led your doctor to prescribe the denied medication.

• Any studies or evidence that support the use of the prescribed medication.

• The specific health risks you experience now or may in the future without the medication that was originally prescribed.

• A clearly stated request for approval of the specific prescription, including the medication name and dosage.

To find more information and resources, visit crohnscolitisfoundation.org/steptherapy.

Five Digital Diet Solutions for Slim Down Success

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By Merilee Kern

ith the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) show having debuted multiple diet-focused consumer technologies, including devices that analyze the gases in people’s breath to uncover what diet improvements would be helpful for them, there is much ado about progressive digital solutions fostering slim down success this New Year and beyond. With that in mind, here’s a roundup of five savvy tech solutions poised to help us shed those stubborn, unwanted pounds easier, more effectively and more sustainably for the long-term.

1. Lumen and FoodMarble

Showcased at this year’s CES show, both are pocket-sized devices that users blow into. They pair with smartphone apps that tell people things like how well they are digesting food or

burning calories. The firm behind Lumen states that their device provides a way for people to monitor their metabolisms. The device also has the capability of determining if the user is burning carbs or fats. Meanwhile, FoodMarble measures hydrogen levels in an attempt to make deductions about a person’s digestive health.

The thought is that the device can be to help people avoid foods that cause bloating, abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

2. TRAQ Smart Shoes

Here’s some killer wearable technology for fitness-minded folks.TRAQ, Alegria’s first smart shoe, is the world’s first comfort smart shoes with built-in pedometer plus a personalized app community. The designs are made for walking, working and leisure, simultaneously allowing you to accurately count every step thanks to

the smart Q-Chip embedded right in the shoe! Easily connect the integrated pedometer in the shoes to the accompanying Alegria TRAQ smartphone app to view your daily and monthly step activity. You can do everything in your daily routine while stepping out in intelligent, blissful comfort. Anyone can track their steps, connect with their friends and compete on a leaderboard. Cheer on your friends and family to walk together through the app. Oh, and there’s no need to charge these smart shoes – ever – for the lifetime of the shoes.

been rated as a best value by a leading independent consumer magazine, and was also recently named the “best kitchen scale for most people” by other key media. This device is capable of measuring in increments of 1 gram or 0.05 ounces and has the capacity to measure up to 11 pounds of food at once. Two-button controls facilitate ease of use, and a protective shield on the control panel prevents accidental spills from compromising performance. Battery life is also prolonged with an auto shut-off feature.

3. HealthyWage

Leverage the power of infrared light to capture a 3D model of your body with the Home Body Scanner from Naked Labs.

The scanner itself is built into an attractive smart mirror with sensors that measure important metrics and calculate measurements. An integrated app allows you to track your progress. The Naked body scanner is designed to help you visualize your progress and body fat percentage as it happens, with a focus on weight loss, performance and recomposition. You’ll be able to literally watch your body as it changes each day.

This app actually pays you to lose weight.With the HealthyWage app, you determine how much weight you want to lose, how long you want to take to lose it and how much you want to wager each month. If you successfully reach your goal by the end date of your challenge, you win your prize. The average HealthyWager prize is over $1,200.You can also join team challenges, jackpot challenges and step challenges through the app. Participants have collectively lost over 1 million pounds and gained over $20 million since the company’s inception, and over $13 million in 2018 alone.

4. Escali Primo Digital Scale

Due to the Escali Primo Digital Scale’s accuracy, speed and simplicity, it’s twice

thereof, been so tangible. Whether you’re winning money for losing weight or tracking your body’s progress in 3D, taking advantage of the digital tools and advancements in the weight-loss arena will surely make slimming down in the 21st century a more efficacious undertaking.

5. Naked Home Body Scanner

Putting a high-tech spin on your weight loss makes the journey more interactive and hands-on, often notably bolstering the success of a weight loss endeavor. Never before have our efforts, and the results

As a branding pundit, wellness industry veteran, consumer health advocate and influential media voice, Merilee Kern spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. Also a two-time fitness champion, her ground-breaking, award-winning “Kids Making Healthy Choices” Smartphone APP for children, parents/caregivers and educators is based on her award-winning, illustrated fictional children’s book, “Making Healthy Choices – A Story to Inspire Fit, Weight-Wise Kids.” Merilee may be reached online at www.LuxeListReviews.com. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LuxeListEditor and Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 43

AL DENTE DIVA

Al Dente Diva’s

Ketogenic Diet-Friendly Recipes Chances are that you’ve heard about the very popular “Keto Diet” by now. It is all people seem to be talking about. The reason being that it really does work! By following this low carb, moderate protein and high fat diet, your body starts producing ketones. Once in ketosis, you’re basically a fat burning machine. If you’ve already consulted with your doctor, and decided that the Keto Diet is right for you, here are a few easy recipe ideas to help get started.

Baked Parmesan Crisps

Diets are so much easier to stick to if you have a great snack.

These are perfect for snacking on alone, using as chips or adding to salads. Grate Parmesan cheese and add a little dried parsley and garlic powder. Stir to combine. Add about a tablespoon of the Parmesan mixture to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes or less. Keep an eye on these; they melt very fast! Peel the Parmesan crisps off the parchment paper and enjoy.

Baked Salmon

Mix about 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with equal parts Dijon mustard. Spread evenly over salmon filets. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. Don’t let the simplicity of this dish fool you – the mustard/ mayo combination keeps the fish super juicy and falls under all the Keto guidelines. This is a great quick dinner option.

Tuna Melt In A Tomato

Ditch the bread and swap it out for a nice ripe tomato. Scoop out the inside of the tomato and fill with tuna salad.Top with some cheese and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted. This is a great Keto-friendly lunch to try with chicken or egg salad also.

If you’re on the Keto Diet or considering giving it a try, I hope these ideas are helpful. Best of luck, and good for you for making a positive lifestyle change.

Loaded Frittata

Frittatas are great because they can be packed with Keto-friendly vegetables and meat. This one is filled with mushrooms, asparagus, onions and breakfast sausage.

SautĂŠ the vegetables and set aside. Do the same for the sausage. Whisk together eight to 10 eggs with 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into an oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Add the vegetables, sausage and cheddar cheese. Mix everything together and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until the center is firm.

Tara Ippolito-Lafontant is a long-time Bergen County resident and local foodie.

This stay-at-home mom is the creator of Al Dente Diva, a page where she shares recipes, entertaining tips and cooking hacks with her followers. Visit her on Instagram (@AlDenteDiva) for a peek into her everyday culinary adventures.

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 45

The Good Bite A

It’s 2019, and the vast availability of healthy foods, combined with newly created healthy recipes from kitchens across the world, are allowing us to eat healthy without feeling like we are.

That’s the ultimate win! Check out these recipes from the test kitchen at Aldi’s Supermarket in Hackensack and help your resolutions come to fruition without feeling like you’re not feeding your guilty pleasures.

Crunchy Fish Bites

2 1/2 2 3 1/4 1/2 2 1 1 2 1 1 1/2

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.

3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper, to taste. Reserve.

4. Whisk egg whites with water to cre46 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Butter cooking spray pounds fresh tilapia fillets, cut into bite sizes ground sea salt grinder, to taste ground peppercorn grinder, to taste cup liquid egg whites Tablespoons cold water cups Bran Flakes, crushed cup coconut flakes cup chopped parsley teaspoons lemon zest Tablespoon Dijon mustard Tablespoon yellow mustard teaspoons organic wildflower honey lemon, zested lime, zested and juiced cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

ate an egg wash. Reserve.

5. In a food processor, pulse Bran Flakes, coconut, parsley and lemon zest until it resembles breadcrumbs. Reserve.

6. In a medium bowl, whisk mustards, honey, lemon zest, lime zest, lime juice and

yogurt together. Chill.

7. Dip seasoned fish into egg wash then coat in bran mixture. Place a few inches apart on prepared baking sheet.

8. Spray fish with cooking spray and bake for 15 minutes. Serve with yogurt sauce.

Harvest Breakfast Skillet 2 1/2 5 3 3 3 4 1 1 1/2 4 1 1. In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and sauté onions, garlic and kale for 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan; reserve.

2. Return skillet to medium-high heat and add remaining tablespoon of oil, spaghetti squash and sweet potatoes. Sauté for 6-7 minutes.

Tablespoons vegetable oil, divided cup diced onion cloves garlic, minced cups chopped kale cups cooked spaghetti squash cups diced, cooked sweet potatoes Quinoa Crunch Veggie Burgers, thawed Tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce teaspoons ground black pepper large eggs avocado, sliced

3. Cut each burger into nine pieces and add to the pan.

4. Stir in soy sauce, pepper and sautéed vegetables.

5. Make four holes in the mixture and crack an egg into each. Cover and continue to cook for 4-5 minutes, or until desired doneness of eggs is reached.

6. Top with sliced avocado.

Oven Baked Zucchini Fries 1 1/3 1/2 1/2 1 1/2 1/4 2 1/4 1

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a medium bowl, mix together crispy oats, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt and pepper.

3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

cup finely crushed Crispy Oats cup Parmesan teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon onion powder Tablespoon parsley flakes teaspoon ground sea salt grinder teaspoon ground peppercorn grinder large eggs cup 2% milk pound zucchini, cut into wedges Olive oil cooking spray

4. Add zucchini to the egg and milk mixture and toss until well coated.

5. Working in batches, remove zucchini from egg mixture and place directly into the Crispy Oats mixture. Toss until well coated and place on a parchment-lined

baking sheet, skin side down.

6. Use the cooking spray to lightly coat the breaded zucchini. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden brown.

7. Serve immediately on their own, or with your favorite marinara sauce.

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Fresh Avocado Pasta

For Avocado Pasta: 1 avocado, mashed (1/2 cup) 1/4 cup water 11/2 cups all purpose flour, plus additional for dusting 1/4 teaspoon ground sea salt grinder For Vegan Cream Sauce: 2 Tablespoons pure olive oil 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 Tablespoons all purpose flour 1 cup organic original unsweetened almond milk 1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes ground sea salt grinder, to taste 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1 pinch organic cayenne pepper 1/2 cup black beans 1/2 cup steamable sweet corn 1 Tablespoon chopped cilantro

1. For the avocado pasta: In a small bowl, whisk together avocado and water.

2. Place the flour on a clean surface and mix with salt. Create a well in the center and add avocado mixture.

3. Using a fork, slowly incorporate flour into avocado mixture until dough forms.

4. Knead for 10 minutes on a lightly floured surface, until dough is smooth. If dough becomes too dry, add a little water.

If dough becomes too wet, add a little flour.

Form into a disc and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

5. Cut the dough into four pieces. On a clean surface, dusted with flour, roll out one piece of pasta dough at a time. Roll in one direction to make a long sheet. Dough should be almost see through.

6. Dust sheet with flour. Starting with the shorter end, roll dough upon itself. Cut into desired thickness. Repeat with remaining pieces. Set aside.

7. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.

8. For the vegan cream sauce: Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Add onions and sautĂŠ for 1 minute. Add garlic and sautĂŠ for an additional minute.

9. Stir in flour and continue cooking for 1 minute.

10. Slowly whisk in almond milk. Continue whisking until thickened, about 2 minutes.Add tomatoes, salt and spices. Continue cooking for 2 minutes. Keep warm.

11. Working in batches, cook pasta in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Drain and place in a large bowl. Toss together with sauce, black beans, corn and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Cauliflower-Quinoa Pizza

1 1/2 3/4 4 3 2 1/4 1 1 1/4 1/2 1/2

1. Preheat oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Prepare quinoa according to packaging instructions. Drain any excess liquid. Reserve.

3. In a food processor, add oatmeal and process until fine. Sift and return to processor, adding the cauliflower rice, quinoa, garlic, vegetable oil, onion, 1/2 cup of the chopped basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper, salt and pepper.

With processor running, gradually pour in egg whites. Process until smooth. Reserve.

4. Line a 13-by-18-inch baking sheet with foil and coat with non-stick spray.

5. Avoiding the corners and sides, evenly spread cauliflower mixture on to baking sheet and poke mixture with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes on the lowest shelf.

6. Carefully flip baked crust onto a cooling rack. Place cooling rack with pizza back onto the baking sheet. The bottom of the pizza should now be the top. Return to

cups organic quinoa cup old fashioned oats 12-ounce packages plain riced cauliflower, cooked and thoroughly drained garlic cloves, minced teaspoons vegetable oil cup chopped onion cup chopped basil, divided Tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided teaspoon crushed red pepper Iodized table salt, to taste teaspoon ground black pepper cup liquid egg whites Olive oil cooking spray oven for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Toss tomatoes, mushrooms, red onion and peppers with Italian seasoning, zest of one lemon, juice and cooking spray. Roast until tomatoes are blistered. Reserve.

8. Top pizza with roasted vegetables and cheese. Return to the oven and bake for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.Top with remaining 1/2 cup of basil and zest of remaining lemon.

Chocolate Mug Cake

2 Tablespoons almond flour, or 2 Tablespoons ground quick oats 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 2 teaspoons baking cocoa, sifted 1/2 teaspoon organic coconut sugar, or 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar 2 Tablespoons unsweetened vanilla almond milk 1 large egg 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 2 teaspoons creamy almond butter pinch of iodized table salt Canola cooking spray 1 teaspoon semi-sweet mini morsels

1. In a medium bowl, add almond flour, baking powder, baking cocoa and coconut sugar. Stir to combine.Add almond milk, egg, vanilla extract, almond butter and a pinch of salt. Whisk until incorporated and batter is

smooth. Lightly coat inside of mug with spray and pour batter into mug.

2. Microwave mug cake for 1 minute and 30 seconds.

Sprinkle mini morsels on top.

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Soft Baked Granola Cups 14 1/2 1 1/2 1/2 3 1 1/2 1 1/2 3/4 3/4

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Place the dates, almonds, oats and salt into a food processor. Pulse the mixture to a fine crumb. Add in the vegetable oil and pulse again.

3. Divide the granola mixture between 12 muffin cups. Firmly pack the granola into the bottom and the sides, leaving

enough room to fill with yogurt.

4. Place the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 12-13 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, rinse the food processor out with water and place back on the base. place the yogurt and freeze dried strawberries into the food processor and pulse until smooth. Reserve for later.

6. Remove the granola cups from the

Cocoa Mocha Oatmeal Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a food processor, add 2 cups of oatmeal and process until it resembles flour.

Reserve.

3. In a large bowl, combine oatmeal flour, remaining 1/2 cup of oatmeal, chocolate morsels, salt, baking powder and chopped apples.

50 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

fancy Medjool dates, pitted cup unsalted oven roasted almonds cups old fashioned oats teaspoon iodized salt Tablespoons vegetable oil cups vanilla nonfat Greek yogurt cup freeze dried strawberries cup blueberries cup raspberries cup strawberries, quartered

2 1/2 2 1/4 2 1/2 6 1/2 1 1/2 1/2 2 1/2 2 1 2

oven and let cool completely.

7. Now it’s time to decorate! Remove the cups from the pan and place on a plate.

Add yogurt and decorate with the berries.

Tip: These granola cups hold well, when loosely wrapped on a tray. Follow the instructions above, but skip the decorating until ready to eat.

cups old fashioned oats, divided Tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate morsels teaspoon iodized salt teaspoons baking powder cup peeled, cored, chopped, Granny Smith apples ounces pitted dates, chopped cup liquid egg whites Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk teaspoons pure vanilla extract cup powdered sugar, sifted Tablespoons baking cocoa, sifted Tablespoon Beaumont Instant Regular Coffee Tablespoons hot water

4. In the same food processor add dates, and gradually add egg whites, butter, almond milk and vanilla. Process until dates appear fine.

5. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

6. Line a baking sheet with parchment

paper and place a small ice cream scoop or two tablespoon-sized cookie dough balls one inch apart. Slightly flatten each ball.

7. Bake for 15 minutes and allow to cool.

8. While cookies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa, coffee and water until smooth.

9. Drizzle cookies with coffee glaze.

From Corporate to Cakes:

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By Natalie Zisa

hen Dawn Pascale lost her job in January 2013, a month before she was signed up for a vegan baking class, she took it as a sign to try something new.

She had been baking for years, taking orders for friends on their special occasions, but it wasn’t until she had been let go that she took the opportunity to turn her hobby into a career.

Pascale eventually developed four vegan recipes and started a wholesale business out of the biergarten in Hoboken. In June 2013, her vegan recipes also became gluten-free based on a request from her first client. As she built a clientele and began baking more often, she moved out of Hoboken to her current space in Cliffside Park. In January 2017, she opened the doors to Om Sweet Home.

Her choice to create a vegan line of baked goods wasn’t necessarily due to her personal lifestyle.While she does eat a limited amount of meat and gluten, she isn’t strict about her diet. However, she has several friends that have some sort of alternate way of eating and their desire to be able to enjoy the donuts and cakes she

52 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

How the Owner of Om Sweet Home Made Vegan Eating Mainstream was already making was the real reason for the all-vegan distinction.

With item names like Mexican Street Corn Muffin and Galaxy Glaze Donuts, you wonder how Pascale comes up with these fresh recipes. “We try to make things that we want to eat,” is the simple answer. She likes pretzels, so she’s making a pretzel. She thinks cupcakes are overrated, so she makes micro cakes. She tries to keep her already limited number of ingredients as natural as possible by using beet root powder or teas. The coloring adds a visual element, but also a nutritional factor.

“Our Galaxy Glaze smells like a bowl of blueberries and it’s blue with sparkly, purple undertones. As I was stirring, I said, ‘that looks like a galaxy.’ But that’s what people want. They want to be excited by food,” declared Pascale.

A unique element of Om Sweet Home is what’s known as Hello Marketplace.

Pascale opened the marketplace within the bakery in November 2017 in an attempt to gather all local vegan products in one place. She described it as “a homegrown, grassroots relationship.” Often, she sells their products in her space, and they sell hers.

“I figured if I have a captive audience coming in to my space, how best can I sell them absolutely everything that I think relates to my brand? My goal was to give people a chance like I was given,” she explained.

Some of the products she carries include Yeah Dawgs, Vegan Rob’s Snacks, Just Egg and more. Pascale is so colorful in her descriptions; you don’t doubt for a second that she loves food.

“Viviana from Hellenic Farms has an

eggplant spread that will make you slap your mother, it’s so good,” expressed Pascale.

She admitted that people who aren’t eating vegan or gluten-free out of necessity still have a stigma or misconception that it’s not going to taste good. But even the vegan eaters are surprised when it tastes like a traditionally baked item. She noted that it’s better to tell someone it’s vegan after they’ve tried it and liked it.

The feedback from customers is usually what brings Pascale the most joy.

Often, she’s trusted with introducing a five-year-old to his or her first cookie or making a cake for someone’s big event.

And she takes pride in being able to do so while accommodating the most mild or severe sensitivities.

Pascale’s business goes beyond the wholesale and retail clientele; she also makes her own vegan butter. About two years ago, she came to dislike Earth Balance and was at a point in her career where she

didn’t want to make something she wasn’t absolutely thrilled with. She now delivers her butter to about two dozen places and as far as Ohio; she’s willing to ship.

“If people want it, they want it,” Pascale said of her product.

Since the inception of Om Sweet Home, Pascale hasn’t taken a vacation in five years. In fact, the first time she stepped away from the business was the weekend of her birthday in May when we met. If there’s any way to sum up the biggest challenge of being a business owner, it’s that.

Regardless, Pascale has every intention of expanding. When asked about the fu-

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 53

ture of Om Sweet Home, she confidently responded, “I want the butter to be a national brand. There should be no reason why our butter isn’t in every single store across the nation.”

For the brand in general, Pascale would love to start a franchise or have satellite Om Sweet Home and Hello Marketplaces. Her goal is to bring that niche vegan community anywhere that wants it. But I couldn’t help but wonder if she’s worried about losing the grassroots element that she described it as.

“There are a lot of challenges with growing, with getting too big where you lose touch of where it came from. But that doesn’t keep me awake at night.That’s actually what makes me really excited for the company, is how much growth we can have,” she said.

It turns out that this isn’t just a hobby turned career, it’s the realization of a childhood dream.

When Pascale was five years old, she told her mother that she had to attend the afternoon session of kindergarten because Galloping Gourmet, Graham Kerr, was on at 10 a.m. and she had to watch it. She would write down the recipes as best as she could and attempt to cook them with her mother.

“I’ve wanted to do this my whole life. I just wish I did it earlier,” revealed Pascale.

Her story makes her the perfect person to pass on what she’s learned to future entrepreneurs.

“If you have a desire to do something then you should go and do it, to whatever capacity that is.

Don’t be as hard on yourself as you think you need to be. Understand that at whatever level you are and the achievements that you do make that you need to be thankful and grateful for that and be in the moment of savoring that achievement,” said Pascale. “It doesn’t mean that you can’t keep your eye in the distance of where you want to be. But you have to be happy about all that you’ve done. And if you’re a little afraid, then you’re doing the right thing because if you’re not then you’re complacent and you’re not challenging yourself.”

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Vegan Options in Bergen County Continue to Grow

Thankfully, Om Sweet Home isn’t the only all-vegan option in Bergen County.There are few other restaurants and bakeries throughout the county that have also taken an entrepreneurial risk to serve healthier alternatives and encourage its residents to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Roots Café Located in Northvale, Roots Café was founded by Jodi Sardanis and Dean Orfas. When they opened a gym 12 years ago, they realized people were working off their bad eating habits and they knew they needed to do something to address the role food played in people’s health. They opened Roots Café out of selfish motives because they didn’t like any of their options.Their menu doesn’t require anything processed – at all.The café has been opened for eight years and while they originally served a small niche of people, they acknowledge that they’re now appealing to a more mainstream audience.

The atmosphere at Roots is quite unique. Orfas describes it as an “oasis” because everything in the space has been collected from nature. In addition to their location in Northvale, they also own a food truck that has no limits to where it travels. They’ve recently spent four days in the Berkshire area of Massachusetts where they were asked to attend a vegan festival.And they really preach the lifestyle by hosting a marketplace that includes not just food, but other vegan vendors as well.

“We have our own definition of food: what the Earth gave us before man played with it,” says Orfas.“And if we can’t make it within our philosophy, we won’t do it.”

Alt Eats Café Located in Ho-Ho-Kus, Alt Eats Café serves a mostly vegan menu.

When founder, Eric Altomare, moved to New Jersey from Manhattan, he was naturally disappointed with what suburbia had to offer for vegan eaters. Their menu rotates seasonally and incorporates tastes from their travels around the world.

Traditional items like mac & cheese and tacos are served as vegan dishes. Alt Eats especially prides themselves on their selection of espresso which comes directly from South America and Ethiopia. Their tagline is, “Natural. Fresh. Botanical.”

Simply Green Café Simply Green Café was the perfect opportunity for Shereen Matera and her father to open a business together. After she went vegan in 2015, she managed to convince her father, who had two previous heart attacks, that the vegan lifestyle would be beneficial for him.

They consider Simply Green, located in Ramsey, to be unique because they have something for every type of vegan. “The junk food vegan, the health-conscious vegan, the raw vegan, the gluten-free vegan: whatever you’re into, we’ve got," says Matera.

While they do believe Bergen County is becoming a more vegan-

friendly environment, they know that it’s not embracing the lifestyle as a whole.

“Veganism strives to eliminate any and all animal exploitation of any kind. Although eating plantbased is a great place to start, we still have a lot of headway to make towards respecting all animals as a community.”

They’re dedicated to educating their customers on how going vegan can help the environment by providing pamphlets and information and hosting related events.

They’re also committed to making it a “feel good, community-oriented place,” which is evident based on their online presence.

Sweet Avenue Bake Shop Sweet Avenue Bake Shop has been in Rutherford since 2007.

Owner, Danielle Vance, began baking out of her home and has made cupcakes the main attraction behind the pink storefront. There’s really no shortage of options here, with flavors ranging from pink birthday cake to lavender lemon. Sweet Avenue also carries traditional desserts like crumb cake and banana bread and offers soy and gluten-free options as well. Vance also pays incredible attention to detail in the decoration, so you can find themed desserts whenever you need it.

Are There Sneaky

Germs

in Your Kitchen?

D

o you know how much bacteria can be growing in your kitchen right now even though you don’t see anything? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, each year one in six Americans, or 48 million people, get sick from a foodborne illness resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3000 deaths. Believe it or not, the kitchen is the most germ filled room in the house. Bacteria can spread anywhere in the kitchen, but prevention starts with implementing some basic cleaning practices.

56 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

By Sheila M. Clancy MS, CHES

Sponges and dish towels are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria. They are moist or wet and have crevices that can trap food particles and keep them in there. To kill bacteria on sponges put them in the dishwasher every time you run it or place it in a bowl with water and put it in the microwave for 2 minutes. You can also pour the extra hot water from your kettle onto the sponge every time you use it. Use the sponge to wash the dishes but don’t also use the same sponge for the counters and the table. Replace the sponge often. Use

paper towels to wipe up spills and clean the counters with Clorox wipes or Lysol wipes.

The kitchen sink is always wet or moist and that issue coupled with uncooked meat juice is a great environment to grow bacteria. Scrub the sink, the drain and the spigot with disinfectant every day. Faucets can hold water that has been in the pipes for a long period of time so in the morning, run the water for a minute before you shower or make coffee with it.

Cutting boards can hold bacteria, especially in the slices in the board. If possible,

keep two cutting boards - one for meat only and one for other things such as veggies or bread. Wash the boards with hot, soapy water after each use. To kill remaining germs put it in the dishwasher or disinfect it with bleach (2 tablespoons of bleach to 1 gallon of water) and allow to air dry.

Garbage disposals obviously handle a lot of waste, gunk and grime. Use a chlorinated cleansing powder and a long handled brush to scrub the inside walls of the disposal. After you finish scrubbing, leave the cleanser in there without rinsing it so it can continue disinfecting until the next time you use it. Be sure that the disposal is turned off when you are cleaning it!

The refrigerator can prevent food borne illness by keeping things cold; however, there are also opportunities for bacteria to grow in the fridge! Clean out the meat and vegetable drawers along with all of the shelves on the inside of the fridge. Then, don’t forget the rubber door seal around the

refrigerator door and the handle!

The can opener and the blender are two gadgets that many times don’t get cleaned properly. Put the can opener in the dishwasher whenever possible. Obviously visible food particles need to be removed from both items, but did you know that you need to disassemble the entire blender, removing the gasket and the rubber seal before you clean it? Whenever you buy a new kitchen gadget, read the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning.

Last but not least, wash your hands.

You should wash them with soap and warm running water. Lather your hands well and then wash between your fingers, the backs of your hands and wrists and finally under your fingernails. Rinse them well and dry them off with a paper towel-not a dish towel. Wash them throughout your food preparation, especially if handling raw meat.

While we can’t always control when we

get sick, taking these steps will minimize your exposure to bacteria that can cause a number of food borne illnesses including salmonella, E. coli, campylobacter and hepatitis A. Practice good habits in the kitchen and enjoy cooking and eating with friends in a healthy and safe environment!

BC Health, Beauty & Fitness 57

SOCIAL

FRIENDS of HackensackUMC

FRIENDS of HackensackUMC held their 2nd annual Books with Friends event at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Amanda Krakowiak, Patricia Mortola

Stan and Mary Ellen Dziedzic

Ellen Hartgers, Arlene Flink

Geri Della Fave, Nancy Dillon

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Brij and Kay Anand, Cindy Martins

Susan Hurwitz, Linda Polkow

Cindy Martins, Alise Biondi

Late Spring 2017

Barbara Evans, Cathy Napolitano

Loria and Chris Russo

Cindy Martins, Sandy Kissler, Stephanie Lench

Roseann Parr, Pat Ackershoek, Linda Huber

Simone Sandler, Candice Paxos, Linda Berlinger, Roz Strauss, Mary D’Andrea

Cindy Martins, Dr. Manisha Parulekar, Dr. Florian Thomas, Dr. Laurie Jacobs, Cathy Napolitano

Ria and Sandy Dinolfo

Lisa Zanowski, Ken Hartos

Pat Zimmermann, Charlotte Frey

Paul and Carmela Nicolardi

Hope for Children Research Foundation The Hope for Children Research Foundation held their annual sports auction at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge. For more information, visit www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org.

Art Weiss, Bob Tafuri

Bernard J. Vaughan, Erica Martinez

Tom LaTourette, Michael Bruntz

Neil Miglio, Christopher Bacey

2

Philip and Linda Cennerazzo, Meg Minassian Late Spring 2017

Casey and Dr. John Colaneri

Emil Sudol, William Pentz

Andy Gilard, Jeff and James Leach

Herman Laudicina, Andrew Finch

Craig Kobrin, Timmy Shinn

Elizabeth and James Hyland, Kathleen Price

Rick Davis, Jenna Santacroce, Sarah Esposito, Tabitha Adams

Tyler and Lou Schroeder

Frank and Lucy Competiello

Tom LaTourette, Michael Bruntz

Buddy Walters, Joe Mason, Kyle Gollins, George Mason

Don, Meg and Danny Minassian

Emily and Leeland Newman, Sean Scannell

The Valley Ball

Diane Frankel Hughes, Frank Hughes

Bart and Carol Grebowiec

Judy and Kathryn Baselice

Mike and Linda Leeder

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Rachel and Dr. Antonio Lasorsa

Late Spring 2017

Dan and Elizabeth Walsh

Kimberly and David Cummings

Sandy Carapezza, Bettina Daly, Megan Fraser

Judy and Kathryn Baselice

Dr. Scott Agin, Audrey Meyers

Wayne and Marcie Wald

Bill Cobb, Carmel Falcone, Sally and Tony D’Ambrosio

Christina Cesarini, Casey Diestel, Diane Paulson

Mike and Diana Thompson, Rose Ranuro, Bill Lurz

Ken and Holly Madara, Holly and Chris Bormann

Matthew DeLuca, Katie Nagurka

Rob and Rashmi Angner

Samantha Kempin, Megan Fraser, Josie Bodino, Betty Ann Kempin, Ann Marie Leichman

The Valley Hospital held their annual gala at the Legacy Castle in Pompton Plains. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Theresa Reis, Matthew Spagnolo

Robin Goldfischer, Megan Fraser

Lisa and Charles Vannoy

Kathryn and Duane Sachs

Suzanne Gramuglia, Kasia Bohaterewicz

Jaime Cerritelli, Michelle Roberto

Meera and Karteek Bhavsar

April and Philip Toussaint, Donna Terzano

Margaret Nolan, Mary Jo Kurtz, Beth Stasyshyn

Ellen and Pierre Boisier

Ben Kornitzer, Jasmin Jose, Sean Healy

Denise Downey, Nancy Weiss

Sandy Carapezza, Anne Swist, Elaine Heimberger, Jean Meloro, Carol Gillespie

Mary-Catherine and Jim Bohan, Sandy and Angelo Carrapezza , Kathy and George Nardella

Ryann Cahill, Meredith Kresser, Scott Battles, Jessica Miller

Trish Clark, Kathy Garbaccio

Roger and Dana Van Voorhis

Ryan and Leeah DeVelez, Theresa Tontodonati, Miguel Perez, Margaret Nolan

MS Center Awards Reception The Holy Name Medical Center Foundation held their annual MS Center Awards Reception at The Venetian in Garfield. For more information, visit www.holyname.org.

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Carl Jr., Kate, Lauren and Lawrence Inserra Jr.

Elaine Adler, Larry Inserra

Larry Inserra, Joe Sanzari, Mike Maron

Janice Mitchell, Pat Sullivan, Barbara Clapsaddle

Shivi Grewal, Joe Sanzari, Yogi Virk

Matt and Dan Leber, Joel DiMaria

Lori Rubino, Joe Sanzari, Regina and John Salemme

Joe Sanzari, Lori Rubino, Inez and Larry Inserra

Aldo Cascio, Jim Kourgelis, Dr. Rick Winters, Dr. Dante Implicito

Late Spring 2017

June Halper, Larry Inserra, Susan Zurndorfer

Frank Siclari, Marie and Laurie Inserra, Brad Smith

Greg and Jerry Iannone

Mary Kozibroda, Jo Ann Sanzari

Brian and Janet McCourt, Joe and Tina Coccaro

John Amoratis, Mark Spinelli, Mike Maron

Mark Spinelli, Lori Rubino, Joe Sanzari, Jim Kourgelis

Sister Antoinette Moore, Joe Parisi, Sister Barbara Moran

Joe Coccaro, Joe Sanzari, Mike Maron

Englewood Health President’s Reception The Englewood Health Foundation held their President’s Reception at the Alpine Country Club in Demarest. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealth.org.

Todd Brooks, Mike Clarke

Liz and Michael Laginestra

Dr. Howie and Karen Liss

Ronald and Joanne Rollieson

Richard Kurtz, Jay Nadel

2

Barry Zingler, David Graf

Late Spring 2017

Clarice May, Steve Jacobson

Gayle and Harvey Chertoff

Michael Gutter, IJ Choi, Dr. Michael Harris

Kristin, Sarah and Warren Geller

Mark and Beth Metzger, Debra Albanese

Patricia and Mort Silverman

Tom Senter, Steven Rudnitsky

Marty Zaikov, Dr. Marc Argintenu, Lynne Zaikov

Kay Hadden, Pat Wilson, Tony Orlando, Susan Shanahan

Dr. Tom and Dr. Stephanie Bernik, Dr. Nimesh Nagarsheth, Warren Geller

John and Barbara Stabile, Donna and Dr. Steven Brunnquell

FRIENDS of Hackensack University Medical Center The FRIENDS program of HUMC held their sixth annual evening lecture at Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Jane and Frank Crotty

Susan Novie, Jerry and Linda Berlinger

Joan Hickey, Carmela Cimmino

2

Jill Bovino, Alise Biondi

Mark and Colleen Sparta

Denise Turrisi, Barbara Evans

Kavita Lala, Janice Czelusta

Arlene Flink, Deb O’Donovan, Francesca Flink Late Spring 2017

Cathy Napolitano, Salma Goldstein

Cindy Martins, Dr. Michael Kelly, Nancy Addis

Jim and Cathy Napolitano

Dr. Michael Kelly, Dr. Joseph Parrillo, Dr. Mark Anderson

Jason Kreitner, Helena Theurer, Dr. Michael Kelly, Colleen and Mark Sparta

Kevin and Belinda Alward, Dr. Greg Simonian

Cindy Martins, Helena Theurer

Stephen Stella, Emma Bernstein

Mark Sparta, Dr. Mark Anderson, Dr. Joseph Parrillo, Cindy Martins, Dr. Greg Simonian, Dr. George Batsides

Hackensack University Medical Center Presidents’ Reception Hackensack University Medical Center held their annual Presidents’ Reception at the Joseph and Pam Simunovich Palm Court. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Lisamarie Volino, Dr. Michael Gross

Helen Cunning, Hillary Nierenberg

Diane Aroh, Fletch Creamer Jr., Anne Goodwill-Pritchett

Dr. Yair Kissin, David Sanzari

2

Dr. Mark Schlesinger, Terri Freguletti

Colleen and Mark Sparta, Dr. Joe Parrillo, David Sanzari

Harry Gates, Dr. John Apovian, Michael McGeary, Dr. Thomas Bellavia

Dr. Donald McCain, Thomas Leyhane, Dr. Dante Implicito

Late Spring 2017

Dr. Ihor Sawczuk, Dr. Michael Harris

Joe Burt, Rudy and Pepi Garcia

Marty and Pat Kafafian

Claire Ward, Dr. Peter and Reggie Gross

Mark and Colleen Sparta

Alice Jurist, Sharon Lee Parker

Dr. Jeff Boscamp, Dr. Yuki Kimora, Adeline and Frank Fekete

Jimmy and Caryl Kourgelis, Jerry Decrosta

Dr. Ihor Sawczuk, Helen Cunning, Colleen and Mark Sparta

Heart Disease and Weight The Link Between

Are you taking steps to maintain a healthy weight to improve your overall heart health?

If not, you are not alone.

We sat down with Gerald Sotsky, M.D., Chair of Cardiac Services for Valley Medical Group and Director of the Valley Health System/Cleveland Clinic Affiliation, to discuss the results of a Cleveland Clinic survey on the topic.

Q: I understand that earlier this month, the Cleveland Clinic released the results of their annual survey on heart disease, this one focusing on the link between heart disease and weight. What did the survey find?

A: The survey found that while most Americans (88 percent) understand that being overweight raises the risk for heart disease, most aren’t doing enough — or anything — to combat their weight issues.

Specifically, the survey found that 74 percent are concerned about their weight and 65 percent are worried about their risk for heart disease due to their extra pounds, yet less than half (43 percent) of Americans have tried to make dietary changes to lose weight. In addition, 40 percent of those who describe themselves as overweight or obese say they are not careful about which foods they eat.

66 BC Health, Beauty & Fitness

Q: Why do you think this is the case?

A: I think that part of the problem may be that Americans are not sure what to eat for heart health. For example, the Cleveland Clinic survey found that 18 percent believe their diet had nothing to do with heart health, and a few know what is the best diet to follow for heart health.

Q: What about the link between excess weight and other health conditions?

A: The Cleveland Clinic survey revealed that most Americans do not fully understand the impact that being overweight can have on their overall health. For example, 87 percent fail to link obesity to cancer and 80 percent do not understand the link between excess weight and atrial fibrillation, the most common heart rhythm ab-

normality. More than half (54 percent) do not realize that obesity is linked to high “bad” cholesterol levels and 64 percent don’t know it can lead to a stroke.

Q: So what’s the answer?

A: We need to do a better job of educating our patients and the public about the significant health consequences associated with carrying excess weight and the health benefits they will achieve by maintaining a healthy weight. Quick weight-loss programs don’t work. Valley offers a number of resources for people who want to learn how to eat a healthy diet and lose weight. These include our outpatient nutrition counseling program, which can be reached at 201-634-5371, or The Center for Bariatric Surgery and Weight-Loss Management, which can be reached at 201-251-3480.

Valley Health System is an affiliate of the Cleveland Clinic's Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart & Vascular Institute.

Your Key to a

healthy heart is a FREE Heart Screening Prevention is at the heart of staying healthy. This comprehensive and noninvasive evaluation by a board-certified Nurse Practitioner helps detect your potential risk for heart disease so you can take steps toward prevention.

Call 201-447-8535 for more information or to schedule your screening.

FREE Heart Screening includes: ●

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A health history Blood pressure evaluation

Heart auscultation to determine heart rate, rhythm and presence of murmur

Lung auscultation

Peripheral vascular assessment including carotid and peripheral pulses

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Ten-year and lifetime ASCVD risk calculation

ValleyHeartAndVascular.com/Screening

Heart care in perfect rhythm with your world