Charlotte Puechmaille, Director of Strategy, New Health Businesses at Withings

Its no secret that chronic disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, taking up 90 percent of healthcare spending in the United States. For the last several years, there has been a rise in discussions and research around the promise of connected health devices helping manage and prevent chronic conditions as well as healthcare spending. However, today a number of factors are coming together to make that promise a reality. This includes the improvement of real-world data insights that home devices provide, growth of telemedicine, proven results as well as acceptance by doctors, insurance companies, patients, and more. The growth and adoption of utilizing connected health devices is having a real positive impact on a number of chronic conditions.

Lets take diabetes as an example. An estimated 34.2 million people in the U.S. have diabetes and approximately 88 million have prediabetes. Obesity is one of the leading causes of type 2 diabetes and a condition that can be managed and in some cases reversed with strategic weight control. Diabetes also leads to other health issues including high blood pressure, which can also be improved if patients have access to the right tools. Today, the overall enhanced access to and interest in connected devices and remote monitoring are playing a part in both the prevention and management of diabetes and conditions surrounding it. Lets take a look at why nows the time to start implementing connected health devices into peoples daily lives to help prevent and track diabetes.

Medical-grade Devices with Imperative Data Insights

Todays at-home connected health devices provide a wealth of insights. Now, people can use clinically-validated devices in their homes that offer medical-grade health monitoring. From glucometers, activity trackers, and wireless blood pressure monitors to sleep trackers and scales, connected devices now allow people to monitor crucial health insights that impact diabetes and other conditions with the same risk factors including weight, blood pressure, BMI, and much more. These data insights can not only help patients with their overall health management but also provide their physicians with detailed information on their daily habits and levels to better treat them and detect issues early. Additionally, the data that these trackers can now monitor provides researchers, medical institutions and even insurance companies with imperative insights that can help them create overall solutions for managing, preventing, and diagnosing diabetes.

Proven Results and Positive Patient Outcomes

For those at risk, it is possible to prevent, better manage, or delay type 2 diabetes by implementing an active and healthy lifestyle. Study after study have now shown that the use of connected health devices improve peoples health and help them better manage specific conditions.

In fact, a study published in JMIR Research Protocols found that individuals who used activity trackers for 12 to 14 weeks lost an average of 0.5 pounds a week and reported an increase in confidence in leading an overall more active lifestyle. The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DDP) also found that having a structured health program of reduced calories and increased activity can lead to a weight loss of five to seven percent of body weight.

A study on the benefits of monitoring blood pressure at-home found that a group of patient participants who used a connected blood pressure monitor that shared information with physicians virtually saw a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure. Fifty-one percent of self-care support subjects achieved the guideline-recommended target of <130/80 mmHg, compared with 31% of control subjects.

Whether a person is using a connected device to track their activity, weight, blood pressure, or glucose levels, these devices are proven to make monitoring and even preventing diabetes more manageable.

Expansion in Telemedicine and Physician Acceptance

A hurdle the connected health device industry has had to overcome to reach mass adoption is the acceptance of these products by physicians. In order for these devices to be used to their full potential and benefit patients long-term, physicians need to find value in them and the data they collect. Luckily, weve seen a rise in physician adoption in telemedicine and connected devices to work with, diagnose, and treat patients. A study by the American Medical Association that was released this year showed that there has been an increase in acceptance by physicians in recommending and using digital tools in their practices.

This increase in acceptance is particularly true today, during the global pandemic, when people are social distancing and physicians are turning to telemedicine to connect with patients. The overall shift now allows medical professionals to more easily connect with patients and have a better understanding of their health levels day-to-day, outside of their in-person visits, which allows them to provide more personalized treatment plans and catch issues early.

Insurance Companies and Government Program Support

Outside of physicians utilizing connected devices more in their private practices, weve also seen more health organizations, institutions, and insurance companies tap into these products and their insights to better understand issues like diabetes and help people manage or treat their conditions. A couple of examples of this include National DDP, which I discussed earlier, which was created by the CDC to create solutions to help people prevent type 2 diabetes.

Secondly, Platejoy, a personal meal planning assistant company, launched a program to help customers make positive improvements to their lifestyles that could help them prevent diabetes. The goal of the program was for their users to lose 5% of their starting body weight, based on CDC recommendations for reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants were given a Withings scale that connected with their Platejoy account where they were able to set and track their goals. This program, which is still ongoing, has seen promising results so far.

Finally, insurance companies have seen the value of connected health devices with several, including John Hancock Plan and Humana, starting to use trackers to better understand consumer habits and also provide incentives for people who make positive lifestyle adjustments.

Overall, we are in a moment when connected health devices have been proven to provide valuable insights on peoples health habits and levels that help patients and the medical community better manage, understand and treat conditions like diabetes. The medical community and patients alike are also more open to using these devices in their homes and practices, which is a key to success.

If physicians, health organizations, insurance companies and patients continue to use connected health devices to empower, educate and encourage people to make lasting improvements to their overall health, there is a massive opportunity to decrease the number of Americans who have prediabetes and help those with diabetes to manage their condition better. With the annual cost in America on diagnosed diabetes at $327 million and millions of people impacted, it is worth using tools that are readily available to lower these numbers.

CharlottePuechmaill Bio

CharlottePuechmailleleads the strategy for new health businesses at Withings, where she has worked for over eight years. Prior to her current role, she held several retail and B2B management positions at the connected health leading company. Before Withings, Puechmaille worked for several innovative French start-ups and held a consulting role in a major FMCG company.

Read this article:
Why Now's the Time to Use Connected Health Devices for Diabetes Prevention - - HIT Consultant

Time is critical for patients dealing with chronic wounds. Small or large, wounds take time to heal, and delaying treatment because of concerns over COVID-19 could lead to serious health consequences.

While some wounds, like small cuts, can usually heal on their own, others, like burns, ulcers or rashes, may become serious and require urgent medical attention. Chronic wounds are wounds that fail to heal naturally and on their own for over a month.

The Houston Methodist Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Program at Baytown offers expert treatment of wounds by a skilled and knowledgeable staff in a brand new, safe and clean facility that features two, state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers.

Some people have medical conditions that cause small wounds to become chronic; sometimes issues that are beyond their control, said vascular surgeon Dr. Jacobo Nurko, medical director of the Houston Methodist Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Program at Baytown. That is the time when you need to talk with your doctor and seriously consider a referral for an evaluation at our advanced wound care center. Our multidisciplinary group of doctors will evaluate your wound to provide the best cost effective treatment option to promote healing in a timely fashion.

Protecting your health

Because all wounds have the potential to become chronic, your overall health may depend on how well you take care of wounds. Factors that may contribute to poor wound healing include smoking, diabetes, neuropathy, obesity, peripheral vascular disease, infection, poor nutrition and immunosuppression, among others. Specialized care can help heal wounds and prevent more complex medical problems. Some technology and techniques used for treating chronic wounds include:

Wound dressings: Cleansing, covering the wound, ensuring moisture balance

Debridement: Scraping away tissue to allow growth of new tissue

Compression therapy: Compression bandage systems

Offloading: Protective footwear, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs

Skin grafting: Using your own skin, or a skin substitute, to provide quick coverage of the wound and expedite healing

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: Delivering more oxygen to the wound by breathing 100% oxygen in a special chamber

The Houston Methodist Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Program at Baytown provides a full spectrum of specialized care to treat chronic wounds. The program is accredited by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS), one of just two clinics in the Houston area accredited by the UHMS. The program meets the very stringent certification criteria, which provides Baytown area residents with the highest quality of wound care treatment and patient safety possible without having to leave home.

There is no question that with help from your specialized wound care team, chronic wounds can heal faster and complications can be avoided, said Nurko. Dont wait for wounds to get worse. Consult your doctor, or call us directly. We are ready to answer all of your questions to ensure the best outcome.

Focusing on prevention

Focusing on preventing infection, can help to keep wounds from becoming chronic. Nurko recommends the following steps to prevent wounds from endangering your overall health: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing proper hygiene, including regularly washing hands and feet and checking for small cuts, cracks, tenderness, redness or swelling on a daily basis, and scheduling regular doctor appointments, especially diabetes patients, who should ask their doctor to check for early signs of nerve damage or other issues.

Ensuring patient safety

Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital has implemented the following enhanced safety measures in all of its doctors offices and clinics in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the health and wellbeing of our patients:

Screening all patients when scheduling appointments for symptoms and exposure risk

Minimizing the number of patients we are seeing per day in our clinics by expanding virtual services and staggering in-person appointments

Using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-recommended testing for our employees

Screening all patients upon arrival with temperature checks and an exposure questionnaire

Wearing personal protective equipment while providing patient care

Redesigning waiting rooms and check-in lines to ensure social distancing

Implementing additional sanitation processes to disinfect all equipment and surfaces

For more information on the wound care treatments offered by the Houston Methodist Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Program at Baytown, visit houstonmethodist.org/baytown or call 281-425-2160.

Go here to see the original:
Don't put off wound care treatment | Lifestyle - The Baytown Sun

For many of us, living a healthy lifestyle means paying attention to our diet, the amount of exercise we take and ensuring that we get enough sleep while avoiding stress wherever possible. By making the right choices we hope to feel and look better both now and as we age. However important looking and feeling good is, there are other benefits to be gained by choosing to live healthily. Lets explore some of them.

Cheaper Life Insurance Premiums

Most insurance policies require you to fill out a health and lifestyle questionnaire and undertake medical testing. The more fit and healthy you are, the lower your premiums are likely to be in relation to the assured death benefit. To get an estimate of the value of your life policy, that is the dollar amount the policys beneficiaries would receive on your death, its wise to enlist the services of a tax or accounting professional. You can also find online calculators that will give you an estimate based on the information you provide. Further down the line, if you decide to pursue a life settlement, i.e. where you sell your existing life insurance policy to a third party in order to release funds to pay for medical care or end of life expenses, while you wont be entitled to the full net death benefit, youre likely to receive more than the cash surrender value.

Weight Maintenance or Loss

Possibly the most important benefit for people who follow a healthy lifestyle is weight maintenance or weight loss. Certainly, regular exercise and attention to diet can transform your physique in a positive way but it can also help to improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels too. Complimenting good foods with exercise will have the best results.

Better Sleep and Increased Energy Levels

The importance of a regular sleep pattern that enables you to get at least 6-8 hours of shut eye is well known and yet many adults in the U.S. dont manage to achieve this. Failure to get an adequate amount of sleep can lead to dips in energy throughout the day and may put you at risk of developing chronic diseases. Adopting a healthier lifestyle by eating a range of low glycemic foods and incorporating exercise into your daily schedule should help you to sleep better at night, plus youll find you have extra energy as a result.

Improved Mental Health

Eating a wholesome and varied diet and adding daily exercise, even if it is just a walk in the fresh air, can give your mental health a boost. As you exercise, feel-good endorphins are released by the brain that help to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Your mental health can also be improved by eating a well-balanced diet rich in whole and nutrient dense foods to fuel your brain and your body.

Prevention of Injury and Disease

Choosing to eat nutritious food, exercise regularly and limit your intake of alcohol and other stimulants may help to prevent or slow the development of chronic diseases, such as dementia, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease. The sooner you choose to adopt these measures, the less likely you are to develop chronic diseases later in life.

See original here:
5 Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle - California Herald

July 23, 2020

North Bay Produce introduced new packaging for its fresh produce lines. With a history of great, fresh fruits and vegetables for over 35 years, and as the company has grown and is a recognized leading provider of high-quality products with outstanding levels of service and dynamic people making it happen, North Bay wanted new packaging to reflect these qualities of their company.

The first thing you will notice is the larger North Bay Produce logo, said Brian Klumpp, director of marketing and strategic development at North Bay. This symbol, or our stamp as we often call it, remains the same as it has been for years and we think it represents well that we have farms all across theAmericas and that we serve customers globally. By making the logo larger, however, we are simply trying to help people to know us better. NBP has an honorable history of being a quiet and humble company. We want to remain modest yet let the world know why they should know us well.

Another noteworthy feature in the new packaging designs is the inclusion of the seal of the American Heart Association. For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association has been known as the worlds leading organization dedicated to improving heart health and reducing deaths from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. North Bay believes it is important to let consumers know that its produce, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can contribute to improving their well-being. For these reasons, North Bay sought and has been certified by the American Heart Associations Heart Check Food Certification program for its fresh produce.

We conducted a national survey and asked hundreds of consumers whether the American Heart Association seal on our produce packaging was important to them; the vast majority said it most certainly was. We believe that listing the seal on our packaging will be helpful to consumers interested in making healthy choices, said North Bay President Nick Osmulski.

The next prominent feature people will notice in the designs are the fresh, vibrant and clean colors. The aqua color used in the conventionally grown produce, and like the brilliant colors in the clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay where the company is headquartered, represents the pure and fresh fruits and vegetables that North Bays growers cultivate. The bright green as used in the organically grown products, represents the clean and green practices that make their organic produce so appealing. The vibrancy of the colors also indicates to consumers that there is a dynamic company behind the brand. Retailers will be happy to know that by conducting nationwide surveys with hundreds of consumers, they overwhelmingly chose these designs over others that were considered and said they would be more likelyto select North Bays products because of the packaging. Our objective was that,in a quick glance, consumers would recognize that North Bays produce was clean, fresh and great quality, saidKlumpp.

Finally, as North Bay Produce is a cooperative, meaning that it is owned by its growers, We think it is important to let people know how our produce is grown and harvested and how directly it is provided to them, said Klumpp. Also, since our farmers feed their own families with their produce the phrase 'From our farms to your family. Naturally.' summarizes best what North Bay Produce offers the freshest produce right from where it is grown to you, while always using the best practices to assure the healthiest and finest tasting produce, Naturally.

Follow this link:
North Bay Produce introduces new packaging - The Produce News

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 11, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Society for Preventive Cardiology (ASPC) is collaborating with INTERVENT International (INTERVENT) to provide its members and their patients free access to INTERVENT's evidence-based, personalized, online/digital, educational resources and content. The collaboration is a patient-centered initiative to help adults play an active role in their own heart health during the COVID-19 pandemic, including heart attack/stroke prevention and recovery after a cardiac event.

As emphasized in a recent ASPC scientific statement, adults who fare poorly with COVID-19 infection more commonly have risk factors for (e.g., high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes) and/or known cardiovascular disease. Moreover, while it is especially important to lead a healthy lifestyle and manage chronic medical conditions during COVID-19, traditional outpatient care services have been significantly disrupted. Many patients are delaying or deferring necessary care, including preventive care. In addition, social distancing has negatively altered physical activity and eating habits in many adults and is contributing to higher-than-usual stress levels. To make things worse, virtually all facility-based cardiac rehabilitation programs for those who have recently experienced a cardiac event (e.g., heart attack, angioplasty/stent, bypass surgery) have temporarily closed. If not promptly addressed, such changes are likely to adversely impact cardiovascular health.

In response to these challenges, as part of the ASPC/INTERVENT collaboration individuals can sign up for free at https://www.myintervent.com/aspc to:

The educational services are designed to help individuals make and adhere to meaningful lifestyle changes, better manage their risk factors for heart disease and stroke and, if needed, recover more successfully from a recent cardiac event. Topics include understanding heart disease, preventing and managing risk factors for heart disease, nutrition, exercise/physical activity, weight management, stress management and smoking cessation. The services are to be used as a supplement to, and not a replacement for, the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider.

According to Dr. Amit Khera, president of ASPC and lead author of the recent ASPC COVID-19-related scientific statement, "There is an urgent need during these unprecedented times to deploy innovative, evidence-based approaches to promote and preserve the health of populations at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Given the fundamental importance of lifestyle management and other proven cardiovascular disease risk reduction strategies, we are pleased to play a role in providing ASPC's members and their patients free access to credible educational content and resources for use as a supplement to their usual medical care."

Dr. Neil Gordon, co-founder and chief executive officer of INTERVENT, said, "The ASPC is to be complimented on the leadership role it is playing on multiple fronts to benefit society during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the best of circumstances, it can be very challenging for many people to lead a healthy lifestyle and take other steps needed to prevent or better manage heart disease. We are especially proud to collaborate with the ASPC during this global crisis to help benefit the health and wellbeing of as many people as possible by leveraging some of our proven online/digital lifestyle management and cardiovascular disease risk reduction resources."

About the American Society for Preventive Cardiology

The ASPC, founded in 1985, represents a multidisciplinary group of healthcare practitioners and researchers who share an interest in and a passion for preventive cardiology. A vision of the society is to interface with all other organizations involved with treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease. For more information, visithttps://www.aspconline.org.

About INTERVENT International

INTERVENT International, founded in 1997, is a physician-led, global, technology-driven behavior change and population health management company that provides its services primarily via digital and telehealth approaches. INTERVENT develops, licenses and provides evidence-based, technology-enabled, data-driven programs for the prevention and management of multiple chronic diseases and cost-drivers. INTERVENT's programs have been proven effective in more than 100 published scientific abstracts and manuscripts, including randomized and independently-conducted clinical trials published in prestigious peer-reviewed scientific journals. For more information, visit https://www.interventhealth.com or email [emailprotected].

SOURCE The American Society for Preventive Cardiology

http://www.aspconline.org

Continued here:
The American Society for Preventive Cardiology and INTERVENT International Collaborate to Help Patients Lead a Healthy Lifestyle During COVID-19...

BetterMe is specially tailored to your own individual lifestyle and fitness goals.BetterMe

This article was created by StackCommerce. While Postmedia may collect a commission on sales through the links on this page, we are not being paid by the brands mentioned.

You may not be feeling like the healthiest, happiest version of yourself these days. Thats ok. We dont blame you. Why work out and eat healthily when beaches are closed and you cant see your friends? Or so you thought. Many of us have fallen off the wagon with our fitness routines, but there is a solution out there that is long-lasting and easy. Sometimes you just need an extra pushsomeone or somethingto look out for you and keep you on track to reach your goals.

Enter BetterMe, a highly rated app that empowers you to maintain a healthy lifestyle and meet your wellness goals. Aside from the Canadian Academy of Sport and Exercise Medicinerecommendation urging physical activity during quarantine to de-escalate potential chronic diseases from not being active, the ultimate question about your health remains: if not now, then when? Theres never been a better time (we see you sitting on the couch) to take charge and meet your best self.

BetterMe is rated 4.5/5 stars on the App Store because it is specially tailored to your own individual lifestyle and fitness goals. First, you answer a short questionnaire to customize your program. You then get lifetime access to a bespoke experience, fit with workout and meal plans that reflect your preferences. Sounds pretty good, huh?

Unlike other wellness apps, BetterMe has every feature you could possibly want from a fitness app: you can track your water intake, receive advice from seasoned personal trainers, take part in weight loss challenges, and count your steps. Plus, with the specs of daily articles, tips, tricks, and FAQ answers on the app, you have the resources to stay on track along the way.

The best, most healthy version of yourself is on the way in no time. You can get access to the BetterMe Home Workout & Diet: Lifetime Subscription today for only $39.99 USD. Or, get a one-year subscription for $19.99 USD or a three-year subscription for $29.99 USD.

Read more:
Become your healthiest self with this highly rated workout and diet app - The Kingston Whig-Standard

Miraburst Cutting Sugar is as Easy as 1-2-3 Healthy Lifestyle, Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics

Explore MiraBurstA healthy way to transform the taste of sour and acidic foods and drinks into something delectably sweet! Experience the sweet sensation with MiraBurst products and sweeten up your life while giving your health a boost with its many health benefits!

New York , July 23, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Miracle Berry: The Superfruit Every Diabetic Should Know About

MiraBurst Products and its Benefits

Consuming miracle berries is beneficial for ones health because the miracle berry is a superfruit, meaning it holds a robust nutritional value. The miracle berry is an all-natural, non-GMO fruit. It is the only fruit on the planet that has both taste-enhancing properties and several health benefits. As a taste enhancing berry, it allows for easy incorporation of healthy fruits, low sugar or sugar-free desserts as well as healthy smoothies and drinks into ones diet.

As a superfruit, themiracle fruitcontains antioxidants (polyphenols which consist of flavonoids and phenolics, vitamins A, C, E and others), essential amino acids, micronutrients and other phytonutrients. These phytonutrients are essential for healthy living. The phytonutrients work together to help manage blood sugar levels and help support the bodys natural immune system response. As a superfruit and a taste-modifier, miracle berries are a gamechanger for diabetics, pre-diabetics, as well as people looking to manage their weight.

Miracle berries are highly perishable fruits. In order to prolong the shelf life of the berries they have been converted into fast dissolving tablets without any additives or preservatives. This will allow consumers to recreate the same experience as eating the actual non-GMO and organic miracle berries. These tablets dissolve on the tongue and immediately create a unique taste-modifying experience. Consumers should allow the tablet to dissolve on the tongue for about 2-3 minutes to allow the active substance (miraculin) to properly activate the sweet receptors on the tongue before consuming the sour and acidic foods, fruits or drinks. The taste-modifying effect will last for up to 60 minutes after the tablet has fully dissolved on the tongue.

MiraBurst currently sells taste-enhancing miracle berry tablets that are fast-dissolving, have no additives or preservatives, and are made from 100% pure miracle berry powder. All MiraBurst miracle berries are grown under the most natural and organic environment in Ghana and cultivated by Fair Trade farmers. MiraBurst is the industry-leading source for all-natural, non-GMO, organic and pure miracle berry products.

Who Can Benefit from Miracle Berries?

MiraBurst miracle berry tablets are a gamechanger for everyone. MiraBurst tablets are perfect for parents looking to help their children prevent tooth decay due to sugary diets. Health-conscious eaters and people looking to lose weight can use these tablets to enjoy healthy fruits and fruit salads, foods, and smoothies and drinks in their diet while satisfying their sweet tooth. Chemotherapy patients can benefit from the berrys taste-enhancing properties because it can temporarily help mask chemotherapy-associated metallic taste.

Story continues

MiraBurst is particularly beneficial for diabetics and borderline diabetics. MiraBurst can help diabetics and pre-diabetics improve their bodys sensitivity to their own insulin and manage blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a chronic disease that comes in four forms: Type 1, Type 2, Pre-Diabetes, and Gestational Diabetes. All types of diabetes result in high blood sugar levels. MiraBurst helps in the management of all types of diabetes and prediabetes.

MiraBurst pairs well with several diabetic superfoods recommended by the American Diabetes Association, such as unsweetened Greek yogurt, blueberries and other berries, grapefruit, and citrus fruits. MiraBurst miracle berries can make an unsweetened Greek yogurt parfait taste like ice cream. Fruit smoothies and green smoothies with lemon can taste sweet and even more delicious. Miracle berry can even make lemon water or apple cider vinegar with lemon water taste like a sugar-free lemonade, which is beneficial for diabetics since apple cider vinegar has been shown in clinical to improve the bodys sensitivity to insulin whilst lemon water help prevent blood sugar spikes after meals.

With regular use of MiraBurst tablets and an adoption of a low sugar diet as well as consumption of healthy fruits recommended by the American Diabetes Association, diabetics and borderline diabetics can manage their blood sugar levels and improve their overall health. Miracle berries can serve as diabetics trusted sidekick by helping reduce their sugar intake for all types of diabetics.

MiraBurst connects people affected by diabetes everywhere to an innovative means of reducing the added sugar in their daily diet. To learn more about MiraBurst and to try the miracle berry products yourself, visitwww.miraburst.comtoday!

About MiraBurst

MiraBurst was founded in 2014 by Dr. Emmanuel Asare with a mission to use the miracle berry to help solve the global problem of excessive sugar consumption and sugar addiction. Founded in response to the rise of diabetes and pre-diabetes (borderline diabetes), MiraBurst is dedicated to introducing consumers to the miracle berry to help cut down on consumption of sugar and sweeteners without sacrificing sweet taste.

Themiracle berry, known as the miracle fruit or Synsepalum dulcificum, is native to Ghana, West Africa. This superfruit has the ability to modify the taste of sour and acidic foods, fruits and drinks to sweet tasting without any added sugar or sweetener. This is due to the active substance in the pulp of the berry a glycoprotein called miraculin. Miraculin has a unique effect on the taste buds by supercharging the sweet receptors on the tongue. These taste-altering properties can make sour and acidic drinks, like lemon water with apple cider vinegar taste like a sugar-free lemonade.

Try it. Love it. Share it.#TasteTheSweetSensationFollow us on instagram@MiraBurst

Christina Asare

(516) 597-5259

420 Jericho Turnpike,Suite 328Jericho, NY 11753

Phone: (516)597-5259

Address: MiraBurst

Attachment

See the rest here:
MiraBurst, the worlds largest producer of miracle berry products, is dedicated to helping people reduce their intake of added sugars and sweeteners in...

Bunion vs gout: What is the difference between the two bone conditions?  |  Photo Credit: iStock Images

New Delhi: Bone deformities are common, but they can also be scary. While some of them are not as serious as others, treatment and diagnosis for the same are important. Bone health problems can turn into serious issues eventually, leading to diseases such as arthritis or osteoporosis, which can make basic standing, walking, and motor functions difficult.

One of the most common confusions is between bunions and gouts. Both problems occur in the foot, and the similarity between the symptoms of the condition can make one confuse one condition for the other.

Some common symptoms of the two conditions include joint pain, swelling, and problems in motion. However, bunions can lead to bumps on the big toe. However, there are various factors that can help in differentiating the two conditions.

How to tell the difference between bunions and gouts?

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between a bunion and gout is to differentiate the root cause of the condition you are experiencing. Bunions are mostly caused due to heredity, injury, or congenital deformity. Therefore, certain causing factors of bunions may not be under your control.

Gouts, however, are caused due to accumulation of urate crystalsin any one (or more) of your joints.

Due to the difference in the causes of the conditions, their diagnosis also differs. To diagnose gout, the doctor may have to conduct a blood test, X-ray, ultrasound, urine test, etc. However, to diagnose a bunion, doctors can only conduct an X-ray of the feet to understand and diagnose the bone deformity.

Various medications are used by doctors to treat gouts. Dietary adjustments, exercise, a healthy lifestyle, and losing weight are also recommended as treatments for gout, as they help in motion and relieving pain.

Bunions can also be treated with ice packs, shoe inserts, etc. Bunions are also treated with surgeries in extreme cases. These can include surgically removing bone to straighten the big toe, or removing the tissue from the big toe joint area, etc, depending on the condition.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.

See the original post here:
Bunion vs gout: What is the difference between the two bone conditions? - Times Now

By: Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | Published: July 11, 2020 1:13:23 pm Small spaces should be seen as an opportunity and not a deterrent. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

It is hard to focus on a healthy lifestyle with clutter crowding your home. Whether you are trying to get a good nights sleep in your bedroom or be productive at your work from home setup or casually unwind in your living room, with clutter sneaking around from every and any corner, it is near impossible. Space has always been a hot commodity, no matter if you live in a dorm or a condo. With a few tricks, here are an easy-on-the-pocket and a quick guide to bid adieu to clutter in a jiffy.

Go multi-functional: An ottoman or a table with in-built storage is your cue to quieten the chaos of your cluttered abode. For instance, you can stack away your books or charging cables and non-essentials in that storage space when not in use. Keep it minimalist at the top with clean lines.

Do you really fancy dining on the dining table or working at a proper desk but cant because of space constraints? Well then, fret not, folding tables are the answers to all your worries. These multi-functional units come with built-in storage where you can display and/or store your cutlery or books.

Think vertical: By simply lifting furniture, clutter, and everyday objects up and away from the floor, space can instantly feel lighter, wider, and detoxified. Opt for sleek wall shelves to display your memoirs, frames, curios, etc, which would otherwise find a home in every nook and corner. Leave those windowpanes and tabletops empty by curating a vertical garden to add some buoyancy to space hang the planters on the wall with the help of a wire or rope or you can just simply hang them from a net.

DIY effect: Utilise that empty space under the bed to store items like steam iron, extension cables, paper bags, footwear, etc. Instead of just dumping it down there, bring out those good old cartons or shoe boxes and use them as storage units. Organise each item categorically before you tuck them away; label each box for convenience, Saloni Khosla, Head of Spatial Design, Pepperfry. For instance, if you are opting to tuck footwear under the bed then put all the sneakers in one box and your heels in another. Take an old bedsheet or a t-shirt and stitch it from three sides leaving one side open and hang it up on the sides of the wardrobe or bookshelf to store your magazines or files or socks in a tidy manner, she said.

Designate a clutter drawer: Remember Monicas secret closet from the iconic sitcom FRIENDS? No matter how storage savvy you are, you will end up having clutter accumulating in small pockets. The idea is to assign one drawer or cabinet to become a place to store items that you may not use and yet do not want to throw away.

Look above: Out-of-the-way areas like the empty space above your wardrobes or cabinets can often prove to be surprising yet useful storage spaces. Use transparent boxes to store your old paperbacks, toys, or seasonal clothes, et al. Stack them up and use every square metre to optimally use the space.

Declutter Ask Yourself, What Do I Need?: Decluttering has a domino effect which enriches both living spaces and your well-being. Do away with all those items which you have not used in over a year. Clearing out even a few items will make you feel calmer.

A little bit each day: People often say that they do not have enough time to do any organising, but everyone can find 10-15 minutes in their day to focus on at least one small space or project. You spend 15 minutes going through a drawer, a shelf, or a room. In a small room, 15 minutes might be all you need to make a big impact.

The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines

For all the latest Lifestyle News, download Indian Express App.

IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd

See more here:
Budget ideas to declutter your spaces - The Indian Express

A woman living with multiple personality disorder has spoken about the stigma around the condition.

Rachel Phoenix, 33, from Preston, was diagnosed with depression at 12 but was later told that she actually had multiple personality disorder (MPD) also known as unstable emotional personality disorder.

She says the stigma towards the mental illness is prevalent even amongst other mental health sufferers with many misnomers about what MPD is and how it manifests.

Rachel now runs Rise and Shine, a mental health support group, with Adam Graham, as she tries to raise awareness of what it is really like to live with MPD.

"The hardest thing to deal with in terms of MPD is the lack of understanding," Rachel told LancsLive.

"There's so much stigma and misunderstanding, I remember seeing websites that were supposed to support people with MPD and they were basically making us out to be manipulative and cruel.

"Some website told the partners of MPD sufferers to run and 'never look back' saying we are just horrific and need to be left alone.

"It's just wrong and hurtful."

Rachel was first diagnosed with depression and anxiety when she was just 12 years old.

But her diagnosis continued to change as she got older and she knew that her mental health issues went a lot deeper.

Rachel said: "My emotions were always a lot more intense then you would expect with someone with depression.

"Things that would irritate most people might make me really sad and possibly angry, there was something a little bit different with me.

"When I was older I got diagnosed with bipolar disorder."

Rachel kept experiencing terrible lows and extreme emotions which eventually led to doctor's diagnosing her with MPD.

The stigma started almost immediately for Rachel. She says that people misunderstand the illness just from its name and the way it was portrayed in films and the media.

"People think the 'borderline' part of the name comes from the idea that people are literally between personalities," said Rachel.

"It actually comes from the idea that people are between psychosis and neurosis.

"In England it is more often called unstable emotional personality disorder but that is a bit of a mouthful."

To be diagnosed with MPD you must meet five out of nine behavioural traits.

These include black and white thinking, strong reactions to feeling abandoned, suicidal thoughts and extreme mood swings.

Rachel said: "I was shown to have all nine of those.

"I have black and white thinking, its one thing or the other, it can be quite difficult to see any of the inbetween.

"I have quite intense mood swings, I can go through many in the space of a day, my temper used to be quite bad and my husband would bear the brunt of that.

"The feeling of emptiness and suicidal thought are the hardest thing to cope with, the suicidal thoughts can last for years."

In March 2019 Rachel and her friend Adam set up Rise and Shine which started as a healthy lifestyle club but rapidly changed into a mental health support group.

Before lockdown Rachel led weekly meetings in Preston, offering help and support to others living with mental illnesses.

She now runs four virtual meetings each week on Skype, taking place on Monday, Tuesday and twice on Thursday.

"We know what it feels like to have mental health problems, so we can relate," said Rachel.

"We are here to help people overcome their problems but also to overcome stigma."

If you are concerned about your mental health or someone else, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123.

Continue reading here:
Preston woman reveals what it is really like to live with multiple personality disorder - Accrington Observer

Note: In response to concerns about the coronavirus, many events may be subject to cancellation, postponement or attendance limits. Please contact organizers to confirm event details.

HEALTH NEWS

Gift shop volunteers needed

Gift Shop volunteers are needed at Beverly and Addison Gilbert Hospitals. This is a great way to learn about retail in health care or volunteer your time and experience in an enjoyable shop environment.

Volunteer benefits include shop discounts and a meal voucher. A variety of shift times are available including evenings and weekends. Please visit the hospitals website atbeverlyhospital.org/giving/volunteer-services for more information.

Pet therapy volunteers sought

Care Dimensions, formerly Hospice of the North Shore & Greater Boston, is seeking more volunteers with certified pet therapy dogs to provide pet therapy to hospice patients in a variety of settings throughout Greater Boston and on the North Shore.

Pet therapy dogs must be certified through a registered pet therapy organization. Volunteers will receive training and ongoing support while engaging in the rewarding experience of visiting hospice patients and their caregivers.

For more information about this volunteer opportunity, please contact Sheryl Meehan, Director of Volunteer Services and Complementary Therapies at SMeehan@CareDimensions.org or 978-750-9321.

SUPPORT GROUPS AND OTHER PROGRAMS

Safe Place Support Group

Safe Place is a support group in Beverly dedicated to helping people who have lost a loved one, co-worker or friend to suicide that meets from 7 to 8 p.m. the first and third Thursday of each month at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 705 Hale St..

Run by Samaritans of the Merrimack Valley, a program of Family Services of the Merrimack Valley, Safe Place provides a space to talk about your loss with others who are experiencing the same type of devastating loss. Its a place to talk, listen, cry, be silent, grieve, be understood and receive hope and understanding from other loss survivors. Safe Place is a confidential and free support group led by a trained fellow suicide loss survivor.

For additional information, contact Debbie Helms at dhelms@fsmv.org.

Alzheimers Caregiver Support Group

Spectrum Adult Day Health Programs, 600 Cummings Center, Beverly, will host an Alzheimers Caregiver Support Group from 1:30 to 3 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of the month.

The group will offer information and education about Alzheimers disease and related memory disorders, an increased understanding through shared experiences and mutual support from other caregivers. Free respite care available upon request. Light refreshments will be served

To RSVP for respite care or have questions, contact support leader Rachael Palmacci at 978-921-5020 or signup online at http://spectrumdayprogram.org.

Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Patients

An eight-session educational/support program for individuals newly diagnosed with breast cancer is held at the Beverly Hospital at Danvers. This program is designed to support, guide and provide knowledge.

The free program is held at Beverly Hospital at Danvers Breast Center, Beverly Hospital at Danvers, 480 Maple St., Danvers. Sessions are held on the first and thirdMonday beginning at 7 p.m. There is no fee.

For further details on upcoming dates or to register, please contact Kimberly Willis, NP-C, Certified Patient Navigator at kwillis@nhs-healthlink.org or call 978-304-8105.

Dementia Support Group

A Dementia Support Group will be held at Twin Oaks Center on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 7-8 p.m.

When you are faced with a loved one exhibiting symptoms of dementia, it can be a confusing and troubling time in your life. The group will help you understand the disease and gain knowledge about the best methods of care for your loved one.

People afflicted with cognitive impairments require additional care to keep their emotional and physical functioning strong and healthy. The centers specialized professionals connect to deliver consistent, stable care while creating an environment of warmth and understanding.

Twin Oaks Center is located at 63 Locust St., Danvers. The support group is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Jennifer Tineo at 978-777-0011.

One Life recovery program

One Life, a faith-based recovery program for those struggling with life-controlling issues (hurts, hang-ups, and habits), meets every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Danvers. This program will help you find freedom from addictive and compulsive thoughts, behavior patterns such as co-dependency, pornography, chemical dependency, eating disorders, depression, emotional/physical abuse, anger, and other personal struggles. This tried and proven recovery program uses traditional methods to build recovery for those struggling with life experiences that affect our peace. The First Baptist Church of Danvers is located at 1 Water St., Danvers. Contact by phone at 978-774-8277, by email at Baptist1@verizon.net, or visit them at http://www.fbcdanvers.org.

Stroke Survivor Support Group

A free monthly Stroke Survivor Support Group held on the first Wednesday of each month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The group meets at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington St., Gloucester in the Longan Room. The free program is facilitated by a variety of professionals affiliated with the stroke program at Beverly Hospital.

Light refreshments will be available. There is no fee and preregistration is not required. For further information or questions, please call Eileen Consentino at 978-922-3000, ext. 2295.

Young Moms Pregnancy Workshop

The Healthy Pregnancy Workshop isa class specifically for teens and young women. It is a two-hour class to be attended in the first or second trimester, focusing on healthy pregnancy. There is no fee. To register or for further information, please call 978-922-3000, ext. 2720.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

The Beverly Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, located on the campus of Beverly Hospital. This free meeting meets in the Garden Room, located on the first floor.

Preregistration is not required, those wishing further information may call the Community Relations Department at Beverly Hospital at 978-236-1650.

Melanoma Support Group

IMPACT Melanomasponsors a support group open to all those who have been diagnosed with Melanoma. The group is facilitated by Kelli Braga, LICSW, in the Garden Conference Room, located on the first floor of the Beverly Hospital.

The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6-7:30 p.m. There is no fee. Preregistration is requested. To register, or for further information, please contact Kelli Braga at Beverly Hospital 978-922-3000, extension 2710, or by calling theIMPACT Melanoma at 800-557-6352.

General Cancer Support Group

The General Cancer Support Group meets at Beverly Hospital on the first Wednesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Womens Health Building in the small conference room.

Preregistration is required by calling the Social Work Department at Beverly Hospital at 978-922-3000, ext. 2710.

Healthy Streets Outreach Program

Healthy Streets Outreach Program, a program of Health Innovation, Inc., provides HIV, Hepatitis C testing, STI testing, Narcan and overdose prevention training, referrals to substance use treatment and mental health services.

Healthy Streets Outreach Program, is located at 100 Willow St., Second Floor, Lynn. For further information, please call: 781-592-0243.

Medication review

A free 15-minute review of medications may be scheduled with a registered pharmacist at Beverly Hospital. Appointments are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the las
t Wednesday of each month. Participants are asked to bring a list of all medications, prescription and over-the-cou1nter medications, including vitamins, etc. To schedule a free and confidential appointment, please call Lahey Health Senior Care at 978-922-7018, ext. 1305.

Healthy Streets Outreach

Northeast Behavioral Health Healthy Streets Outreach Program provides rapid HIV testing, hepatitis C information, access to drug treatment, overdose prevention and Narcan training. All services, provided by NBH Healthy Streets Program, are available at various locations on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 978-767-3913 or 781-592-0243 to reach the outreach team.

Help with hoarding issues

The North Shore Center for Hoarding & Cluttering at North Shore Elder Services is the leader in providing a support system for those who are feeling overwhelmed by the stuff in their life. Many of us periodically reach a point where we need to simplify, organize and declutter. Sometimes we cannot do it alone and need some help in meeting this challenge; thats when the North Shore Center for Hoarding & Cluttering can offer assistance.

If you or someone you know might benefit from any of the professional services NSCHC can offer, call 978-750-4540 and ask for Information Services to make a referral. There are no geographic or age restrictions for participating in any of the services.

NSCHC is located at North Shore Elder Services, 300 Rosewood Ave., Suite 200, in Danvers. For more information, please contact Marnie McDonald, LCSW at (978) 624-2207 or mmcdonald@nselder.org

Community CPR programs

Beverly Hospital is offering several American Heart Association CPR courses designed for non-medical personnel and teach the skills and techniques used in adult, infant and child CPR. This course also covers choking in adult and children, and the use of protection devices for mouth-to-mouth breathing. This course is appropriate for anyone wishing to learn lifesaving CPR skills.

The cost of the course is $50 and includes the American Heart Association Heart Saver Student Workbooks. At the completion of the course you will receive an American Heart Association Heart Saver course completion card; this card signifies that you have successfully completed the CPR program.

The classes will run from 6-9 p.m. and are subject to cancellation due to low registration. The cost of the course is $50 and includes the textbook. To register or for further information , please contact Kim Regan at 978-922-3000, ext. 3436.

Suicide Survivor Support Group

SAFE PLACE, a peer-run suicide survivor support group is held for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. The support group is sponsored by the Samaritans of Merrimack Valley of Lawrence.

Friends are welcome to attend the free support group that meets at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 705 Hale St., Beverly Farms on the first and third Thursday of each month, from 7-8:30 p.m. There is no fee. Preregistration is not required.

For further information, please call Debbie Helms at 978-327-6671.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

The Beverly Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, located on the campus of Beverly Hospital. This free group meets in the Garden Room, located on the first floor.

Preregistration is not required, those wishing further information may call the Community Relations Department at Beverly Hospital 978-283-4000, ext. 585.

Grief recovery

G.R.A.S.P. Grief Recovery after a Substance Passing a support group for families or individuals who have lost a loved as a result of substance use or addiction, meets on the first Thursday of every month, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Highland Hall inside the auditorium at Salem Hospital. For more information, call 781-593-5224 or 978-354-2660 or online at http://www.grasphelp.org.

Young Moms Childbirth Preparation Series

The CYM Childbirth Preparation Series is specifically for teens and young women. This seven-week series follows the Healthy Pregnancy workshop. This series prepares young women and their support people for labor and delivery. The class meets one evening a week for seven weeks. There is no fee; preregistration is required by calling 978-922-3000, extension 2720.

Helping seniors stay healthy

This winter as the rate of senior hospitalization typically reaches its highest point of the year the Home Instead Senior Care, serving Danvers and surrounding areas, has committed to reducing area hospitalizations through the launch of a new informational campaign aimed at educating families how to help aging loved ones remain healthy at home year-round.

There are many things families can do to help keep their senior loved ones out of the hospital. In fact, in a new study of nurses who work primarily with seniors, 99 percent say that the role families play in keeping seniors out of the hospital is just as important as the role of the medical community.

From monitoring their taking of prescribed medications for chronic conditions to attending doctors visits and checking in to ensure doctors instructions are followed, their role as a medical advocate is critical.

To help family members identify and act on potential warning signs, Home Instead is offering Five Ways to Prevent Senior Hospitalizations guide, developed in partnership with Dr. Carolyn Clevenger, incoming president of the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association.

This free resource includes information about common risk factors and the steps that families can take to help ensure a healthy lifestyle. Additional free family resources can be found at http://www.preventseniorhospitalizations.com. To obtain a copy of the guide or to learn more about how you can help keep your senior loved one out of the hospital this winter, please call 978-725-5995.

Surgical Weight Loss info sessions

Lahey Hospital & Medical Center is pleased to bring Surgical Weight Loss services to Lahey Outpatient Center, Danvers. While the actual surgery will be performed in Burlington, patients will now have the convenience of receiving preoperative and postoperative care close to home.

Surgical Weight Loss offers a multi-disciplinary team approach for treating obesity through a combination of surgery, behavioral health, and nutrition. This multi-disciplinary approach is the key to successful long-term weight loss and well-being.

As part of the offerings, free monthly bariatric information sessions are held at Lahey Outpatient Center, Danvers. These sessions are open to patients and the community, and are facilitated by surgeons and nurse practitioners of the program.

Patients who typically qualify for surgical weight-loss include those with a body mass index greater than or equal to 40, and/or a body mass index between 35 and 39 with at least one major medical co-morbidity, such as obstructive sleep apnea or hypoventilation syndrome, diabetes or hypertension.

Free upcoming Surgical Weight Loss info sessions are held 6:30-7:30 p.m. Please call 978-304-8020 for further information regarding upcoming programs.

Newly Bereaved Workshop

Held 5-7 p.m. first Thursday of every month at the Bertolon Center forGrief & Healing, 78 Liberty St., Danvers.The group is for those who have lost someone within the last three months.To sign up or forinformation: 855-774-5100; grief@caredimensions.org.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group

Held 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.second Thursday each month at the Beverly Senior Center, 90 Colon St. Group meets once a month at the Senior Center. Come meet other grandparents like you, get support, learn helpful informationand have some fun. Walk-ins are welcome. Held in the Meeting Room.For information: 978-921-6017.

Nar-Anon Support group

Held 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Salvation Army building, 93 North St., Salem. Affected by someone elses addiction? Nar-anon offers Hope. Nar-Anon is a worldwide fe
llowship for those affected by someone elses Addiction. As a twelve-step program, Nar-Anon offers help by sharing experience, strength and hope. Meetings are open to family and friends of addicts in the North Shore area. Meetings will continue as long as they are needed by the community. There is parking in the rear of the building via Mason Street. All meetings are free, non denominational, all are invited.

Caregiver Support Group

Held 10-11:30 a.m. thesecond Tuesday of each month at the Beverly Senior Center, 90 Colon St.Come participate with other caregivers in confidential discussions about the difficulties and joys of caregiving for a loved one. The support of others who understand and have similar experiences can be exactly what you need. Held in the Conference Room. Sign upin advance. For information:978-921-6017.

Gloucester Stroke Club

Held 10:30-11:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of every month atAddison Gilbert Hospital, Longan Room,298 Washington St.,Gloucester.Support groups are a great way to meet each other, stroke survivors or caregivers who understand what you are going through. The club will offer members various activities such as arts and crafts, gentle exercise, and health demonstrations - such as massage, blood pressure checks and other social activities.

Peer and Recovery Support Group

Held 7-8:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month in the doctors conference room at Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick St., Beverly. These support groups are for family and friends of those dealing with mental health challenges and also for peers in recovery and meet the last Wednesday of each month. For information: 617-984-0504; csadkowski@yahoo.com; namigreaternorthshore.org.

Original post:
Greater Beverly health news and support groups - News - MetroWest Daily News

UConn Today sat down with Dr. Kai Chen of UConn Healths Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center to better understand COVID-19s impact on cardiovascular health, and what you can do to lower the potential risk to your hearts health should you contract the virus.

What do we know so far about the viruss impact on the heart?COVID-19 is not only a lung disease that increases heart workload, but also attacks the heart in a few different ways: COVID-19 triggers more heart attacks; the virus can directly infect the heart causing heart muscle damage and heart failure; and COVID is associated with increased blood clots that compromise circulation to lungs, heart, and brain.

What kind of patient heart issues have you been caring for most during the pandemic?The most common cardiac issue in patients with COVID-19 is perhaps the cardiac injury that can be measured in the bloodstream as elevated enzymes. These patients have more complications and worse hospital outcome.

Why is ones heart health at greater risk of complications following infection?SARS-CoV2 virus causes infection by invading cells through an entry called ACE2 receptor that is abundantly present in lung epithelial cells, heart cardiomyocytes, and vascular endothelial cells. That is why the cardiovascular system becomes a direct target of the virus. In addition, COVID-19 is associated with excessive inflammatory response, the so-called cytokine storm that further ravages the heart.

What heart conditions are worsened should you contract COVID-19?It is well established that people at older age, with hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or pre-existing cardiac conditions such as coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure are more vulnerable, and also have worse outcomes while suffering from COVID-19.

How can someone who has a high-risk heart condition better protect themselves?First, do not interrupt cardiac care if you have a pre-existing heart condition. Second, practice social distancing, mask-wearing, and hand-washing these are the most effective ways to prevent the disease. Third, seek medical advice promptly if experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitation, or deterioration of pre-existing cardiac condition. Patients have avoided calling 911 or self-presenting to the emergency room out of fear, and we have seen tragic scenarios increase as the result. Fourth, maintain a healthy lifestyle: eat healthy, quit smoking, restrict alcohol intake, get adequate sleep, and keep physically active. Importantly, physical activity is strongly encouraged, either in a home setting or outdoor areas with social space.

How important is it for even young and heart-healthy people to take action and what action can they take?COVID-19 also infects people who do not have underlying heart conditions, and who are young. We have seen youth have no exception for COVID-19 and sometimes tragic outcomes. The best way to prevent COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Be vigilant and continue practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings, in particular during this reopening phase. In addition, testing is readily available now. If having symptoms, one should get the test and not be someone who unknowingly transmits the disease to others, in particular to vulnerable populations.

Read the original here:
UConn Health Doctor: COVID-19 Directly Targets the Cardiovascular System - UConn Today

Toronto, June 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Precision Nutrition, the worlds largest online nutrition and healthy lifestyle coaching and certification company, is opening a limited number of registration spots on July 15, 2020 for Precision Nutrition Coaching. As part of the 12-month journey, clients will be guided through important and sustainable changes in their eating, exercise, and lifestyle habits for meaningful and lasting change. The fully-remote mens and womens programs connect individuals not only to an expert coach for a personalized approach, but also a global community of support to guarantee results for a healthier and stronger body and mind.

Precision Nutrition Coaching isnt built on quick-fix diets or meal plans that only provide short-term results. Instead, Precision Nutritions world-class coaches introduce and reinforce the skills and habits needed to look and feel healthier. By breaking big goals down into small daily practices that add up to massive changes over the course of a year, healthy habits become second nature and last a lifetime. Precision Nutrition Coaching has been tested and proven with over 100,000 clients, and its been validated in multiple peer-reviewed research papers.

With many gyms still closed or semi-opened, individuals are struggling in their quest for a healthy lifestyle. Precision Nutrition Coaching is a fully online solution that provides accountability, direction and support to keep you moving every step of the way, said Precision Nutrition Coach Denise Allen. Not only do clients have access to a real coach, they also benefit from shared accountability and support through group coaching calls and a private Facebook group. These additional connections provide an opportunity to share experiences, insight, and challenges. They are never in this alone.

To provide clients with the care and attention they deserve, Precision Nutrition only opens its coaching program twice a year. Enrollment is first-come, first-served and has historically sold out within hours after opening. To address this demand, Precision Nutrition has created a free presale list. Those who sign-up for the presale list will receive an invitation to join a complimentary meet-and-greet session held over Zoom, which is an opportunity to learn more about the program directly from Precision Nutritions Coaches. Additionally, those on the presale list will be able to register 24 hours early and access a savings of up to 54% off the regular price.

When recalling her experience with Precision Nutrition Coaching, client Jen Schrader stated: In these weird and fast-changing times, the Precision Nutrition routines I had established were like an anchor, holding me steady when everything else was shifting and changing. It wasnt just about habits, eating and exercise. I explored my relationships with food, life, and my own happiness. In many ways, the changes I made were small, but they had the most profound effect, and are standing up to the test of time and challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic.

About Precision NutritionPrecision Nutrition offers a sustainable, practice-based approach to losing fat, building strength, and getting healthy. As a global leader in providing health and fitness professionals the education, tools, and coaching they need, nearly 100,000 coaches in 120 countries use the Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certificationalong with ProCoach, the companys proprietary coaching softwareto improve client results, increase operational efficiency, and drive business growth. Precision Nutrition offers the only nutrition certification endorsed by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). The American Council on Exercise (ACE) and The National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) also approve Precision Nutrition for its professionals continuing education credits.

In addition, Precision Nutrition Coaching for Men and Women is a personalized, evidence-based healthy nutrition and lifestyle program, which has been validated in multiple peer-reviewed studies, and helped more than 100,000 people improve their nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle. For more information, visit http://www.precisionnutrition.com.

Engage with Precision Nutrition on social media:

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Pinterest

Read the rest here:
Precision Nutrition's Transformative Personal Coaching Program Will Be Accepting a Limited Number of New Clients in July 2020 - GlobeNewswire

Dole has long been known for their partnership with the Disney with their famous Dole Whip served inside the Disney Parks. Now, the companies are on an eight-month initiative together to promote a healthy eating with the help of some Disney magic.

Earlier in May, Dole fruits with images of Disney characters from 15 Disney and Pixar films appeared on shelves in U.S. and Canadian supermarkets. Well find more ways for healthier food choices from this team from now until December 2020!

From May 29th to June 8th, 2020, Dole is calling all Dole Whip fans to take the Disneyland Dole Whip out of Adventureland, or really out of any of the Disney theme parks, and into your home kitchen. The contest is to turn this frozen treat into something creative with Doles original Dole Whip recipe. Yes, this coconut milk version is different from the ice cream one that Disney Parks Blog and Disney Parks App shared. You can find all the contest details here!

You can follow Dole on social media and their website for new at-home activities. In the meantime, heres one of the Banana Sticker Peel and Play. Watch these Pixar movies while youre having fun with this Dole and Disney Pixar healthy activities.

One of the most iconic Disney-Pixar animated movies is Monsters, Inc. This characters are more adorable than frightening. Now Dole is using Monsters, Inc.s not-so-scary tactics to work towards making exotic fruits and vegetables less intimidating to add into your meals. Its not always easy for kids to try new things and its all about getting creative to help ease them into it.

Whos the most famous chef in Disney and Pixars history? I believe its Remy fromRatatouille! Hes got a great story to share that everyone can be a cook. Dole and Pixar want to help us get in the kitchen with original, character-inspired Dole recipes, including entrees, side dishes, salads, soups, sandwiches, smoothies, and desserts made with fresh fruits and vegetables.

What do you think of the Disney and Dole healthy eating campaign? Let us know in the comments!

View post:
Dole is Teaming Up with Disney for a Healthy Lifestyle Campaign! - Inside the Magic

Jercile Williams always took pride in a healthy lifestyle, her niece Dr. LaWanda Finney said.

When youd see her at 90, she would ask, can you drop down and give me a few pushups? said Finney, a Port Arthur resident. She outlived everyone in the family. She would say, Yall are supposed to be the smart ones, but you eat too much.

The healthy lifestyle has helped Mrs. Williams greatly. She will turn 100 on Tuesday.

Pelican Bay Assisted Living and Memory Care in Beaumont will host a drive-thru celebration for her starting at 11:15 a.m. Tuesday. The facility is located at 2501 S. Major Drive.

Mrs. Williams was born June 9, 1920, in Clarksville, near the Oklahoma border. She graduated from Clarksville High School and earned a bachelor of science degree from Bishop College, where she pledged Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. She went on to receive a masters degree in education from Prairie View A&M University.

Her education experience took her to Greenville, Clarksville and Dallas, where she lived 70 years. She is a member of Warren United Methodist Church in Dallas and was a Sunday school teacher.

She was an educator and principal, said Finney, a Title I/parent engagement coordinator in the Port Arthur Independent School District. She was always in the health movement. She outlived everyone in the family.

The family moved Mrs. Williams down to Port Arthur for a few months before she settled at Pelican Bay under the watch of St. Paul United Methodist Church. Thats where her brother, the late Rev. Kelly Black served and present pastor the Rev. James Berry frequently visited until the coronavirus pandemic.

Mrs. Williams enjoys dominos, completing word searches, listening to music and vising with friends and family.

Siblings included Clovis Black, the Rev. Dr. Jackie Black (who also pastored St. James), Thelma Black, the Rev. Kelly Black and James Black.

Read the original post:
100th birthday celebration for Jercile Williams scheduled Tuesday - Port Arthur News - The Port Arthur News

By now, most people understand that the elderly are especially vulnerable to Covid-19. But studies of Covid-19 patients in France, Italy, China and the United States have also identified chronic conditions that place even younger patients at risk. Near the top of the list: obesity.

As we work to protect ourselves during this pandemic and prepare ourselves for the next one health officials need to be clear about the connection between obesity and Covid-19. Obesity increases the risk of respiratory failure, alters the immune system and may cause chronic inflammation that can rapidly escalate out of control with coronavirus infection.

In the wake of Covid-19, we need to treat obesity not just as a disease, but also as a public health emergency. As an internist, I know how hard it can be for some patients to adopt healthier lifestyles. But the road to a healthier lifestyle requires a change in the doctor-patient relationship itself and perhaps a radical one.

The truth is, most of my patients know what they need before they set foot in my office. By then, theyve been told countless times to lose weight. The question is how. They often wonder: what should I eat? What kind of exercises should I do and how often? Should I try supplements? Unfortunately, and more often than not, patients leave many of our primary care appointments without answers because we simply dont have enough time to give them. It doesnt matter if youre the best doctor in the world: a 20-minute interaction once or twice a year probably isnt enough to change a patients life, let alone save it.

As a result, doctors and patients take a Hail Mary approach to chronic disease management. After years of general discussions about needed lifestyle changes, the patient is diagnosed with a chronic disease, and then there is an intensive effort to prevent its irreversible consequences. But even then, doctors tend to offer generic advice which is too little, and too late, to make much difference.

But in light of the connection between obesity and deadly contagions like Covid-19, we all need to do better. Doctors need enough quality time with patients for them to develop together lifetime health strategies with detailed interventions on how to implement them.

If that sounds too good to be true, consider the current doctor-patient strategy for relatively complex chronic diseases, like type-two diabetes. A patient whose blood glucose level is far above target may see his or her provider as often as every three months. And since these patients are frequently considered complex, managing their chronic conditions require a higher reimbursement and longer appointments.

With obesity, the key is early intervention. If patients can change their lives before suffering chronic disease consequences, they have a far greater chance of living longer, healthier lives with or without Covid-19. But this change requires the type of intensive doctor-patient relationship that goes beyond conventional engagement on diet and exercise.

Our patients deserve medical advice that is personalized to their metabolism, body composition and other relevant individual factors. They deserve a tailored exercise regimen as well as access to useful tools like nutrition-tracking and optimizing apps. They also deserve the time and space to provide their doctors in-depth information about their environments and habits. This way, doctors can give their patients medical advice within the proper context. Sure, this isnt necessarily the most profitable way to practice medicine, but our patients most at risk of becoming obese dont just deserve this type of intensive care. They need it.

They also need government to promote preventive health at a national level. Federal and state governments should offer tax incentives to companies that provide their workers at least five hours a week to exercise during working hours. Likewise, they should give individuals tax credits for taking courses in healthy lifestyle modification while they are still healthy. The government offers tax incentives for businesses to operate in specific areas or for individuals to adopt clean energy; those are good models for how this could work.

Getting back to normal is not enough. One of the best things we can do to prepare for the next pandemic is to prevent chronic disease before it starts. As healthcare providers, we have an oath to help our patients and to advocate for them. The time to get our countrys obesity epidemic under control is now.

Here is the original post:
Obesity is a major risk factor for dying of Covid-19. We need to take it more seriously - The Guardian

Consumer health company Welltok announced today that it will be including remote condition management programs from four new digital health services as part of its Connect Partner program. These four offerings include a Type 2 diabetes reversal program from Virta Health, a gut health program from Vivante Health, a telemedicine treatment program for addiction from Workit Health and a dietitian-guided program for multiple conditions from Nutrimedy.

With people living in a more virtual world, we are seeing a shift in how people are managing conditions, Bob Fabbio, CEO of Welltok, said in a statement. Our partners are delivering much needed support to help people manage a healthy lifestyle, diabetes, addiction and other conditions at home. We are proud to be making their innovative solutions conveniently available through our platform and connecting them to the people who need them most.

Charlotte, North Carolina-based health system Atrium Health announced yesterday that it will be the first to bring Butterfly's point-of-care ultrasound device into wide practice. The connected tool is already live at 30 of the system's "high-priority" locations, which include COVID-19 testing centers, ICUs and EDs.

The Butterfly iQ devices have already given Atrium Health greater abilities in screening and monitoring COVID-19 patients by providing an immediate and clear picture of whats happening in a patients lungs," Dr. Rasu Shrestha, EVP and chief strategy and transformation officer at Atrium, said in a statement. "But we see its benefit going well beyond the current pandemic. Our teams are already using it to provide care for heart patients, and we anticipate this device ushering in a new era of frontline care.

Intel will be supporting the efforts of the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine and 29 other institutions as they seek to identify brain tumors via artificial intelligence. The effort will be employing a distributed machine learning approach called federated learning, which the partners note will allow for greater collaboration on the deep learning project without risking patients' data privacy.

AI shows great promise for the early detection of brain tumors, but it will require more data than any single medical center holds to reach its full potential," Jason Martin, principal engineer at Intel Labs, said in a statement. "Using Intel software and hardware and support from some of Intel Labs brightest minds, we are working with the University of Pennsylvania and a federation of 29 collaborating medical centers to advance the identification of brain tumors while protecting sensitive patient data.

Mobile EHR and practice management system-maker DrChrono recently unveiled a partnership with EHRsynergy that it says will help better document patient encounters. According to the announcement, the latter company's Augmented Intelligence Engine foregoes templates for machine learning-based suggestions of most likely diagnoses or treatments based on the patient's record. The physician's selections are then formatted into structured data.

DrChrono is an important EHR partner for us because we are both committed to leveraging new technology to make medical practices more efficient and interactive, Edward Makaron, cofounder and CEO of EHRsynergy, said in a statement. By syncing our information into a flexible, mobile EHR platform, were making it even easier for physicians to chart patient encounters on mobile devices and spend more one-on-one time with their patients.

Here is the original post:
Welltok adds four new digital programs, Atrium Health adopts Butterfly's handheld ultrasound and more digital health deals - MobiHealthNews

Working on building a healthy lifestyle and coming up with healthy food ideas can be difficult for anyone. Yes, it may be a challenge, but in life, all things come with a challenge. Eating healthy can always seem like a stressful and unpleasant thing, but I only think thats the case when you let it be.

Dont let your mind take over and present to you those unhappy thoughts about eating healthy, filter those negative thoughts out. Think about in the long run and how once you maintain this habit, it will be something that you can quickly put into your day to day routine.

Instead of making this a daunting thing lets create a good practice and making healthy dishes fun just like we enjoy making brownies or cookies lets take that same motive and apply it to make a healthy meal.

Lets make dinner time a time to sit down and not only enjoy whomever your eating with whether it may be family, a significant other, or yourself bu also the delicious food that you have prepared.

Miso-Glazed Salmon

2 tbsp white miso

2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

1 tsp honey

4 (5-oz) salmon fillets with skin

Firstly youre going to line a small rimmed baking sheet with a sheet of nonstick foil. Then you are going to stir together your miso, soy sauce, and honey in a cup. Once you have done that, you will place your salmon on your prepared baking sheet and spoon your miso mixture over the salmon.

Then youre going to let the mixture and salmon marinate in the refrigerator at least for 15 minutes or up to two hours turning the salmon once or twice. While you are letting your salmon marinate, you are going to preheat your oven 425F when your oven is ready place the salmon skin side down, until just opaque in the center about 15 minutes.

Turkey Fingers with Peach Sauce

Nonstick Spray

cup peach or apricot all-fruit spread

1 tsp curry powder

1 (1-lb) piece skinless boneless turkey breast

tsp salt

tsp black pepper

cup unsweetened flaked coconut, chopped

cup whole-wheat panko bread crumbs

First, preheat your oven to 425F and spray a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray. Now you are going to make your peach sauce. Grab a bowl and stir together cup of all-fruit spread and tsp of curry powder and then set that aside. Then you are going to cut your turkey into 16 strips and in a medium bowl stir together your remaining cup of fruit spread and your remaining tsp of curry powder, salt, and pepper. Add your turkey and toss until its coated evenly with the mixture.

Once thats finished, youre going to mix your coconut and panko on a sheet of wax paper and coat your turkey strips one at a time in the coconut mixture, lightly pressing so it will stick to the turkey. Then, you will arrange your turkey strips on the baking sheet in a single layer and make sure you spray with your nonstick spray. Youre going to bake until the turkey fingers are golden and cooked through, about 15 minutes, and serve with your yummy peach sauce.

Read this article:
Simple and Healthy Meals to Spice Up Your Dinner Menu - Grit Daily

After weeks of working from home, furloughs or unemployment, millions of Americans are returning to the workplace as COVID-19 restrictions lift. The transition may cause fear and anxiety. Experts at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and The Ohio State University College of Nursing say its important to take precautions to avoid infection, but also to deal with the stress of transitioning back to their offices or businesses after an extended period of isolation.

Uncertainty and unpredictability can really create an unhealthy amount of fear and stress, especially when its sustained over such a long period of time, said Dr. K. Luan Phan, chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. Challenges will remain as businesses reopen, and the typical workplace will look very different following this pandemic. Well have to find new ways to connect with colleagues and work as a team while maintaining our distance and preventing the spread of infection.

Precautions like taking every employees temperature upon arrival, providing face masks, keeping workspaces at least six feet apart and being vigilant about wiping down surfaces are important to preventing the spread of the virus. Those actions can also make everyone feel safer and less anxious.

Physical and mental health are closely intertwined. While you practice good hygiene and physical distancing in the office, you should also practice stress-reduction, said Bernadette Melnyk, dean of the College of Nursing and Chief Wellness Officer at Ohio State. For example, while you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, take the opportunity to take five deep, abdominal breaths. Doing this at least five times a day can reduce anxiety and even lower your blood pressure.

In addition to stress relief, healthy lifestyle choices like daily physical activity, a healthy diet and getting at least seven hours of sleep per night can boost your immune system and help stave off serious illness. Experts say its also more important than ever to stay home when you feel sick to help keep yourself and your co-workers healthy.

To help ease their fears, Phan encourages employees to ask about what will change at work to keep them safe.

Ask their employer, ask their team leader, how are they being protected? What precautions are in place? What new setups to the workplace environment have been established in order to keep themselves and their co-workers safe so that they dont get infected, said Phan, who is a professor at Ohio States College of Medicine. Handshakes, things that we usually do to show physical support for one another, will also not be allowable. So well have to find new ways to connect in this new work environment.

There can be a lot of fear surrounding the return to normalcy or what will now become normal, so Phan and Melnyk offer these tips to help transition safely to a post-COVID-19 work life:

Manage Stress: Many people already have a lot of stress and anxiety during this time, and adjusting to being back in the workplace may add to those feelings. Utilizing stress-reduction apps, practicing mindfulness and self-care that calms your breathing and nerves, and making a plan for you and your family to manage the transition back to work can all go a long way to building resilience and helping you feel better about returning.

Dont let your guard down: Just because theres an ease on restrictions doesnt mean the threat is gone. You still need to take precautions wash your hands for at least 20 seconds while taking five big deep breaths, keep sanitizer and disinfecting wipes handy and clean surfaces often. Wear a mask and avoid shaking hands in common areas, meetings or when interacting with customers. (Editors Note: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that hand sanitizers should contain at least 60 percent alcohol.)

Keep your distance: Avoid crowding into conference rooms and keep your workspace at least six feet from your nearest co-worker. Continue holding virtual meetings and limit direct contact. Many adjustments were made to help employees work from home during the coronavirus outbreak. Health experts recommend continuing with remote work or staggering which employees are in the office when possible.

Stay fit to be well: Make changes that help you boost your immune system and fight off illnesses. About 80 percent of chronic conditions are preventable by engaging in a few lifestyle behavior changes, such as regular physical activity, eating at least five fruits and vegetables per day, not smoking and limiting alcohol intake if you drink to one drink a day if you are a woman and two a day if you are a male. Those small changes can make a major difference in fighting the virus if youre infected.

Look out for your co-workers health: Stay home if you dont feel well, get your flu shot and, if a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available in the future, get that too. As workplaces begin to re-open, many are monitoring employee health with measures such as daily temperature checks. If your employer doesnt take precautions you feel are needed to prevent the spread of illness, speak up so that your entire office can be and feel safer.

See the original post here:
Ohio State experts offer tips for healthy transition to workplace as state reopens - Pike County News Watchman

Although you may not be able to fully prevent an illness this season, a healthy immune system is one way to give your body extra protection. Focusing on nutrient-rich foods and healthy lifestyle behaviors can help you and your family stay a step ahead.

IMMUNE-SUPPORTING NUTRIENTS

The following nutrients play a role in the immune system and can be found in a variety of foods:

To help keep your immune system healthy all year long, focus on a balanced eating plan, adequate sleep and stress management.

Aim for five to seven servings of vegetables and fruits daily to get vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that may support immune health.

Good hygiene and hand-washing help prevent the spread of germs. Remember to wash produce before eating or using in recipes. Clean glasses, forks, spoons and other utensils to reduce the spread and growth of bacteria.

Find healthy and appropriate ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, listening to music or writing. Physical activity also is a great way to help manage stress and may help reduce the risk of some chronic diseases that could weaken your immune system further.

Lack of sleep contributes to a variety of health concerns such as a weakened immune system. Seven to nine hours is recommended each day for adults, and children need eight to 14 hours, depending on their age.

Many herbal remedies are marketed to help fight colds or shorten their duration but check with your health care provider before taking any supplements or medications. No one food or supplement can prevent illness.

See the rest here:
Eat.Move.Connect. Tip: How to Keep Your Immune System Healthy - Crow River Media