Spar Scotland supports Healthy Living Week – Talking Retail

Posted on by

Healthy Living Week, which takes place on 8-15 June, will see promotions and activities taking place to encourage everyone to get involved.

All Spar Scotland stores will feature promotions on healthy products, including the fab four produce lines, which will see green and red apples, oranges and pears be available in twin packs for only 89p.

The group has produced recipe cards with healthy recipes from Parentclub Scotland which will be on display in-store and on Facebook. Spar Scotland will also be running a fruit faces competition on Facebook where people are encouraged to design a funny face using fruits and vegetables with the winner taking away a PS4 as the top prize.

Colin McLean, chief executive of Spar Scotland, said: As a long term partner, we are very excited to support the SGF Healthy Living Programme by hosting a new activity every day of the campaign either on our social sites or in our Spar stores. As we move carefully out of lockdown, it is really important to eat healthy food, exercise and stay active.

McLean added: We have created healthy recipes by working with Parentclub Scotland. We have also filmed some of our store staff showing examples of easy exercise routines that everyone can follow. In addition, we have great promotions on a range of healthy products which we know our customers will enjoy.

The Healthy Living Week activity will be supported with marketing collateral in Spar stores and via Spar Radio.

The rest is here:
Spar Scotland supports Healthy Living Week - Talking Retail

Study: National calorie menu labeling law will add years of healthy living, save billions – Tufts Now

Posted on by

BOSTON (June 9, 2020, 9:00 a.m. EDT)The national law requiring chain restaurants to include calorie labels on menus is estimated to prevent tens of thousands of new heart disease and type 2 diabetes casesand save thousands of livesin just five years, according to a new study estimating the laws impact.

The model also estimated that the law would produce $10-14 billion in healthcare cost savings and another $3-5 billion in societal cost savings, such as from prevented lost productivity, over a lifetime.

The study simulates what would happen if one million hypothetical Americans, aged 35-80, cut their calorie intake moderately while dining out, after making healthier choices based on the labels. The research, published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, was led by researchers at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

The analysis estimated that beginning in 2018, when the law was implemented, until 2023, healthier consumer menu choices would:

When calculated over a lifetime, the analysis estimated better consumer menu choices would:

Prior to COVID-19, Americans were relying on restaurants for one in five calories, on average. Most likely, we will come to rely on them again. Our study shows that menu calorie labeling may prevent meaningful disease and save billions of dollars in healthcare costs, said Dariush Mozaffarian, dean of the Friedman School. Mozaffarian is co-first author of the study along with Junxiu Liu, a postdoctoral scholar at the Friedman School.

The simulation estimated, based on prior interventional studies of food labeling, that menu calorie labeling would lead consumers toward lower calorie choices, resulting in a modest 7 percent fewer calories eaten at any average restaurant meal. The researchers conservatively assumed that half of these saved calories from each restaurant meal would be offset by additional calories unconsciously consumed by the consumer elsewhere, for example, at home.

We also found that menu calorie labeling could help reduce health disparities, with larger benefits among Hispanics and Blacks, those with lower income or education, and people with obesity, said Renata Micha, co-last author and associate research professor at the Friedman School.

In addition to consumer responses, the research team estimated the potential health and economic impacts if restaurants respond to the calorie labeling law by reformulating some of their items to reduce calorie contents. They found that the laws health benefits could be twice as large, compared to health effects from changes in consumer choices alone. To estimate the potential effects of restaurant reformulations, the team projected that at the end of five years, there would be an average 5 percent calorie reduction in restaurant meals. Once again, the researchers conservatively assumed that half of the saved calories from reformulated restaurant meals would be offset by additional calories consumed elsewhere.

Our estimates were cautious, based on the idea that both consumers and restaurants would cut calories only modestly. Part of the attraction of eating out is pleasure, and our model assumes people will still treat themselves, but the experience can be healthier overall if both diners and the restaurant industry make changes, said co-last author Thomas Gaziano, of the Harvard Chan School and Brigham and Womens Hospital, who designed the simulation model used in the study.

The federal law and resulting FDA regulation requires restaurants that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations to post calorie information for menu items. The FDA has given covered restaurants temporary flexibility during the COVID-19 crisis, due to the pandemics impact on the restaurant industry.

Current flexibility is appropriate when so many Americans are unemployed, and schools are closed. But improving the healthfulness of our food system is crucial, given the pandemics disproportionate impact on people with diet-related conditions like diabetes and obesity, and further links to health disparities, Mozaffarian said.

We need to change our food system through equitable, efficient and sustained food and nutrition policies. Food labeling is an effective tool to support informed consumer choice and stimulate industry reformulation, Micha said.

Methodology

The researchers used the Harvard CVD-PREDICT, a validated microsimulation model, and a simulated nationally representative sample of adults from four cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES 2009-2016). Calorie intake was derived using up to two 24-hour recalls per person, with calorie intake from restaurants estimated by the reported source of food. Each simulated person was followed for 28 years on average, until death or age 100, whichever came first.

The authors caution that modeling results do not provide proof of the menu calorie labeling laws health and cost impacts. In addition, the study was conducted before the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 and does not include the impact of the pandemic on consumer habits and the restaurant industry.

Authors and Funding

This study is a part of the Food Policy Review and Intervention Cost-Effectiveness (Food-PRICE) research initiative, a National Institutes of Health-funded collaboration led by researchers at the Friedman School working to identify cost-effective nutrition strategies to improve diets and population health in the United States.

Additional authors are Yujin Lee and Parke E. Wilde, of the Friedman School; Stephen Sy, of Brigham and Womens Hospital; and Shafika Abrahams-Gessel of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

This work was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Healths National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (R01HL130735) and a post-doctoral fellowship award to Junxiu Liu from the American Heart Association. Please see the study for conflicts of interest.

Citation:

Liu, J., Mozaffarian, D., Sy S., Lee, Y., Wilde, P.E., Abrahams-Gessel, S., Gaziano, T. & Micha, R. (2020). Health and Economic Impacts of the National Menu Calorie Labeling Law in the United States. Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. doi: 10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.119.006313

###

About the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University

The Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University is the only independent school of nutrition in the United States. The schools five divisions which focus on questions relating to nutrition and chronic diseases, molecular nutrition, agriculture and sustainability, food security, humanitarian assistance, public health nutrition, and food policy and economics are renowned for the application of scientific research to national and international policy.

Link:
Study: National calorie menu labeling law will add years of healthy living, save billions - Tufts Now

Timucuan Parks Foundation and AARP Virtual Healthy Living Hike – FirstCoastNews.com WTLV-WJXX

Posted on by

Wednesday, April 29, 2020, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PMGoogle CalendarYahoo CalendarAol CalendarWindows Live CalendarOutlook Calendar (iCal)

Timucuan Parks Foundation and AARP are partnering for a virtual event as a continuation of their Spring 2020 Healthy Living: Fresh Air, Fitness, Friendship and Fun series. The COVID-19 pandemic has kept people out of local parks and preserves so TPF and AARP are turning to Zoom to connect people with nature and local history. Participants are invited to join on Wednesday, April 29 for a virtual Hike into History from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

As in previous walks, participants will start with some light stretching followed by a virtual tour of Kingsley Plantation led by National Park Service Ranger Emily Palmer. This year marks the 400th anniversary of the first enslaved Africans brought to the United States. The virtual event will remember those enslaved at Kingsley Plantation, honor their stories and celebrate their contributions with a tour of the slave quarters, the Planters House, and the gardens and grounds of Kingsley.

The event is free and open to everyone, but registration is required and can be done at timucuanparks.org/healthy-living. A how-to Zoom guide and event link will be emailed to registrants on Tuesday. For more information, contact Felicia Boyd, program and outreach director with Timucuan Parks Foundation, at info@timucuanparks.org or 904-463-1799.

See the article here:
Timucuan Parks Foundation and AARP Virtual Healthy Living Hike - FirstCoastNews.com WTLV-WJXX

After COVID-19: Healthy lifestyle must be part of our ‘New Normal’ – MENAFN.COM

Posted on by

(MENAFN - Caribbean News Global) Arley Gill is an attorney at law and former culture minister of Grenada. He is also a former magistrate in the Commonwealth of Dominica

By Arley Gill

Few things compare to the hustle and bustle of Grenadian life. The lively banter between vendors and buyers in the market; the laughter of school children in schoolyards; the tug 'o' war battles between bus conductors and passengers; and the rhythmic sound of music blasting from windows of vehicles passing byeverywhere you turn, there is colour, there is music, there is niceness.

However, the essence of what makes us vibrant and colourful peoplethe sights and sounds of everyday living was abruptly halted by the invasion of COVID-19.

Forced to be at home for what may feel like forever, many of us are turning to food and drinks as a way to cope with a 24-hour lockdown. It is my view that as we settle into this 'new normal', a healthy lifestyle must be a personal and national priority if we are to truly rebound from, and also to resist in the future, public health threats such as COVID-19.

As a people, we are our nation's most valuable economic resource. And, regardless of the state of the economy after this global pandemic ends I caution that Grenada's economic recovery should not only be measured by the speed at which the tourism and construction sectors bounce back or by the employment rate.

What many nations are learning from the onset of the coronavirus is that the physical health of residents in any country, along with its healthcare infrastructure, are two of the most important factors in determining how well a nation responds to public health threats. Without a healthy workforce, there can be no real and meaningful economic recovery.

Of course, we are compelled to plan for the future, with or without the presence of the coronavirus. As we plan for the future, we must be concerned about jobs and livelihoods in Grenada. However, we should also be thinking about what our nation can learn from other nations both near and far about the impacts of public health threats, such as COVID-19, on vulnerable populations.

Let's take, for example, the United States of America.

In the US, Black Americans constitute only 13 percent of the population; yet, they are 30 percent of the people dying from COVID-19. America's death rate is similar for Black, Asian, Minority and Ethnic (BAME) individuals living in the United Kingdom. BAME residents are 14 percent of the UK population and 19 percent of the individuals dying of COVID-19.

Doctors on the frontlines of this global pandemics have observed an interesting phenomenon relative to COVID-19 and patients with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, and asthma. Individuals, with weakened immune systems, are more likely to die from the virus. This observation should serve as a wake-up call for us in the Caribbean; and, specifically here in Grenada as we consider post-COVID-19 priorities, we must make a healthy lifestyle change a part of this 'new normal' in our country.

Eating too many salty foods, sugary drinks, and consuming foods with little or no nutritional value, are already wreaking havoc on vulnerable people around the world.

I am certain that each of us has a family member or friend in Grenada or elsewhere, living with diabetes or hypertension or both. In the aftermath of COVID-19, our government, for instance, can create ways to educate the public through culturally appropriate public service announcements; and, by developing a long-term plan to achieve food security not only in Grenada but also in the region.

In Grenada, we have more than enough fresh fruits and vegetables available for each person to consume. Therefore, it should be easy to eat healthy and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes. But as we all know, this is not the case our people are already dying prematurely and in high numbers from preventable non-communicable diseases.

Eating local and staying healthy should be part of any new economic policy planning process. More importantly, and at the least, we must grow what we eat and eat what we grow. We once attempted to do so. It will be good for Grenadians, good for the economy and good for the planet.

Moving forward, let us come together as one family to encourage each other to eat well; consume alcohol in moderation and responsibly; exercise, and take care of each other. We should also find ways to promote and prioritize our small farmers and fisherfolks essential workers in the future fight against COVID-19.

A crucial part of Grenada's economic recovery cannot just focus on tourism and construction; to do so, will be to repeat errors made in the past. If COVID-19 taught us anything as small island states, it is that being able to feed our nation in times of crisis, is not only important but also quintessential to our survival.

I note with some regret, the fact that farmers and fisherfolks are not considered essential workers in this COVID-19 period. In my respectful view, they are the very essence of essential workers. They have to feed the doctors, nurses, police officers, patients, and everyone else. However, I guess that since we import so much of the food we consumewe do not appreciate the contributions of farmers and fisherfolks as we should.

With an eye on the future, I strongly propose that the ministry of agriculture and fisheries be subsumed as departments in a ministry of food security/production; thereby, shifting and intensifying the focus on farmers and fisherfolks. Food security and food production are areas the government should give greater attention. We need to transform the agricultural sector and move from a piecemeal approach to a more strategic approach.

This is a moment for new and revolutionary thinking on what economic recovery means in Grenada and the Caribbean region. Specifically, the government's efforts to restart Grenada's economy post-COVID-19 must include ideas that prioritize a healthy lifestyle that is tied to local food production and local consumption, and with food security as the ultimate goal.

We should not rely on yesterday's solutions to solve today and tomorrow's problems, especially as we figure out individually and collectively, what life will eventually look like after COVID-19.

MENAFN0505202002320000ID1100115792

Continued here:
After COVID-19: Healthy lifestyle must be part of our 'New Normal' - MENAFN.COM

Clearwater healthy living classes live-streamed for those in self-isolation – Clearwater Times

Posted on by

Now that people are spending copious amounts of time at home, some may be getting a little restless and stir crazy, so the District of Clearwater (DOC) has decided to stream various activities from its Community Recreation and Healthy Living (CRHL) program on Facebook.

Those interested can follow along with everything from yoga, body conditioning exercises, as well as mental and emotional wellness talks, with the DOC considering adding more activities like kickboxing and gymnastics in the near future.

We were just tossing around how you could do things with people doing painting and everything online so we thought, why dont we just present our Community Rec and Healthy Living program out to the people, said Leslie Groulx, chief administrative officer for the DOC.

Its pretty busy. We have a really high enrollment in our program, so we were just brainstorming.

Groulx added the instructors are happy to lend their time because they want to help the community and keep peoples spirits up, and the videos have been gaining a lot of traction online.

The CRHL program cancelled all its in-person classes indefinitely on March 17, giving all registered participants a credit to their accounts to put toward future programs, and on March 24 the program began to post daily wellness videos on its Facebook page to help residents maintain physical and mental health.

Anyone wanting to follow along with the recreational videos can catch Lou Bentons 30-minute workouts, Sylvia Arduinis yoga sessions, and Vix Meyers mental wellness talks at http://www.facebook.com/clearwaterhealthylivingprogram/

You can join them live, or watch the videos any time after that fits your schedule.

newsroom@clearwatertimes.comLike us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter

Health and wellness

Read the rest here:
Clearwater healthy living classes live-streamed for those in self-isolation - Clearwater Times

QOC promotes healthy living through activities on social media – The Peninsula Qatar

Posted on by

Doha: The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) is providing multiple activities and sports events on its social media platforms to encourage the public and followers to exercise sports activities at home, abiding by quarantine measures, and adopting social distancing guidelines.

Through this initiative, QOC is encouraging the individual sport as the best method to maintain the health of the individuals and society physically and psychologically.

Among QOCs vital events and activities is Team Qatar Virtual Run which takes place every Thursday and Friday for 5km, 10km and 21km, along with 2020 Qatar Olympic Committee E-Tournament (FIFA & Pro Evolution 20), as well as Think with Qatar team program which offers questions to the public on events organized by the QOC on its social media platforms, ultimately the winners in these events shall get valuable prizes.

At local media level, the Al Kass TVs broadcaster Mishaal Shakir delivers show at 11 pm titled Live with Qatar team during the holy month of Ramadan, the show hosts athlete from Qatar team on every Wednesday and Friday to focus light on the careers of Qatar team athletes and their achievements. The show on its first day has hosted the Qatari rally driver and sport shooter, Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah who focused light on his sports career and achievements in both Rally and shooting sports.

In another collective effort, many Team Qatar stars from different sport disciplines are providing online - tips and training sessions to help public people to maintain fitness during the home quarantine.

QOCs social media platforms also provide online short video clips to encourage the public and followers to maintain self-physical fitness.

In another scene, the diet expert, Mohammed Al Ahraq presents a 55-minute show (Stay Health with Team Qatar) via the QOCs social media platforms to highlight topics encouraging the child nutrition system.

See the rest here:
QOC promotes healthy living through activities on social media - The Peninsula Qatar

Private-equity firm raises millions to invest in health and wellness – Yahoo Money

Posted on by

Investors are putting millions of dollars into opportunities focused around healthy foods and a transparent supply chain as consumers demand more plant-based and organic foods.

Gabrielle Ellie Rubenstein, CEO and co-founder of Manna Tree Partners, tells Yahoo Finance her healthy-living investment firm has raised $141.5 million for its fund focused on investments she said are in support of the health of the supply chain.

We have to be able to verify the entire supply chain from farm to fork before we would invest in a company. So the transparent supply chain of the food you are eating is what we invest in, Rubenstein said.

The private-equity firm currently invests in four companies, ranging from those that create ingredients for plant-based foods to those that produce organic beef.

Trends are equally rising, both an increase in plant-based and an increase in natural or organic food,such as pasture-raised eggs or pasture-raised beef, said Rubenstein.

The funds portfolio includes Vital Foods, the largest national brand of pasture-raised eggs that supports small farmers, and Verde Farms, a producer of grass-fed, organic beef.

Rubenstein noted sales for eggs and meat are up during the COVID-19 pandemic as shelter-in-place measures keep families at home.

Our beef company has played a vital role in whether its steak nights or family dinners that might have usually been outside of the home on weekends. It is healthier for you, Rubenstein said.

Manna Trees portfolio also includes investments in MycoTechnology, a manufacturer of mushroom protein, and Nutriati, the largest domestic processor of chick peas, an ingredient often used for plant-based meats and other foods.

The ingredient space is a very active one in plant-based, said Rubenstein.

The stock performance of companies like Beyond Meat (^BYND) and recent partnerships between plant- based foods and major fast-food restaurants has put a spotlight on consumer demand for healthier foods.

The reason we like the ingredients is it allows us to partner with big food companies, said Rubenstein. The ingredients allow you to make food healthier for the average person that might not be able to pay a little bit more for it at a grocery store, she added.

The coronavirus pandemic has created opportunities for some plant-based companies and has also put a greater focus on food supply chains around the world as consumers have been stocking up on food.

Rubenstein says the companies she works with have not been as impacted by COVID-19 because they are smaller and more nimble, relying on co-packers, so workspaces are not as crowded. She stressed that her fund is not focused on companies pivoting It only considers those with manufacturing in place that are cash-flow positive.

Rubenstein said Manna Tree is proud not only of the companies its fund invests in, but also the 131 investors it has tapped across 18 countries, noting that 30% of its investor base is women.

I'm not sure of another fund of our size that would have 30% of their investors be women. It's usually 3%, if you're lucky, said Rubenstein.

Women are great communicators of saying why this is needed, she said. What was unique is in the institutional investors, all institutions or banks we worked with were led by women bankers. So I do see that women supporting women is very alive and well.

Ines covers the U.S. stock market from the floor of the New York Exchange. Follow her on Twitter at@inesreports.

Read more:

It would be unprecedented for a bear market to be this short: Wells Fargo Strategist

Recent rally could be a bear market trap: Miller Tabak Strategist

A view from the trading floor: Algorithms having outsized impact amid coronavirus impact

See original here:
Private-equity firm raises millions to invest in health and wellness - Yahoo Money

Living And Retiring Overseas Post The CoronavirusThree Top Options – Forbes

Posted on by

Eventually, COVID 19 will be contained, and global markets and economies will recover. But the experience of having lived through this challenging period will leave us with a reinforced and maybe a reinvented understanding of what matters most in life.

Considered from a post-crisis perspective, where in the world will offer the best options for repositioning yourself overseas? Diversifying your lifestyle and your investment portfolio to embrace the many opportunities our world continues to offer is a more important agenda than it's ever been. The way to make sure you're prepared for whatever tomorrow brings is to expand where you spend your time and your money so youre not at the mercy of any single government, economy, marketplace, or currency.

Imagine living in a place where you arent compelled to turn on the news the minute you roll out of bed because you have better things to do and because youve organized your life so that youre able to ride out any storm safely and comfortably.

We have a moment now, while we sit on collective pause, to regroup what wed like our lives to look like and to connect the dots between our ideal lifestyle and the top choices for the best places to think about spending time and money overseas.

You may not want or be able to hop on a plane to explore these destinations in person today, but, again, our current circumstances are temporary. Where should you think about taking a look after the lockdowns have been lifted? Here are three places where you could restart your health, self-resilience, and community first.

#1: Portugals Algarve Coast

iStock/Daliu

At home on Portugals coast, you could wake every morning to the sound of local fishermen announcing the mornings catch and the soft chimes of bicycle bells signaling the start of the daily commute.

Offshore this 100-mile-long stretch, the Atlantic Ocean crashes, as it has for centuries, carving arches, coves, and caves into the sandstone, creating a picture-postcard view at every turn.

Portugals Algarve region is not only a top option for retirement in one of the best places in the world to live thanks to its:

Year-round Sunshine

Portugal enjoys one of the most stable climates in the world and 3,300 hours of sunshine per year, meaning more sunny days than almost anywhere else in Europe. The Algarve has no bad weather months.

Safety

Portugal ranks as the third safest country in the world. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is limited to pickpocketing during the busy tourist season. As well, this country has managed to keep itself separate from the immigration crisis that is playing out in other parts of Europe.

Good Infrastructure

Portugal has enjoyed important infrastructure investments in recent years, specifically to do with the countrys highway network and airports. As a result, this is a great base for exploring all Europe and North Africa.

International Standard Health Care

Health care in Portugal is high quality and a fraction the cost of health care in the United States. If you become a resident, public health care is free.

Golf

Portugals Algarve region boasts 42 courses in less than 100 miles.

Great Beaches

The European Blue Flag Association has awarded 88 beaches along the Algarve coast Blue Flagstatus, recognizing their excellent water quality and environmental standards.

Affordable Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Portugal is among the lowest in Western Europe, on average 30% lower than in any other country in the region. A couple could live here modestly but comfortably on a budget of as little as 1,300 euros per month. With a budget of 2,000 euros per month or more, you could enjoy a fully appointed lifestyle in this heart of the Old World. And right now your dollars buy a lot of euros.

The Language

English is widely spoken. Living here, you could get by without learning to speak Portuguese.

Healthy Living

The Portuguese are the biggest fish eaters per capita in Europe, and fresh fish of great variety is available in the ever-present daily markets. The year-round sunshine and fertile earth in this part of the world mean an abundance of fresh produce, too, also available in the local markets. Meantime, pollution rates are low, and streets, towns, and beaches are clean and litter-free.

Retiree Residency

Portugal offers the most user-friendly residency option in the Euro-zone. You can qualify to live in the country full time simply by showing a reliable income of at least 1,200 euros per month.

#2: Mazatlan, Mexico

iStock/Elijah-Lovkoff

For decades, Americans have voted Mexico the world's best place to live or retire in the way that really countsthey've packed up and moved there. This country is home to between 1 and 2 million American expats and retirees, more than any other country. Its biggest advantage is its accessibility. Living or retired on Mexicos Pacific coast, you can come and go from the United States by car. Moving to Mexico can be as hassle-free as an international move gets. Nothing's as easy as loading up a truck and driving south. Your entire moving budget could be gas and tolls.

Why else does Mazatlan stand out as a top Plan B option?

Familiarity

From its administrative set-up (the Mexican government is a stable democracy, with executive, legislative, and judicial branches functioning in a similar way to those in the United States) to its big-footprint shopping, Mexico is familiar and therefore comfortable. If you're itching for an adventure in a foreign land that's not too foreign, Mexico could be the experience you seek.

Language

All the North American attention from both expats and tourists means that many Mexicans, especially in the service industry, speak English. This can make things like navigating the residency process at the immigration office and managing the real estate purchase process with your attorney much easier.

Property Markets

Property markets in many areas of Mexico are soft and growing softer thanks to current global events. In addition, the U.S. dollar is at an historic high against the Mexican peso, meaning you having supercharged buying power in those Mexican markets where real estate trades in pesos.

Easy Residency

Automatic six-month tourist stays and easy and fast immigration make it possible to come and go and spend as much time in the country as you'd like. You can maintain a second home here (a place you rent out when you're not using it yourself, say) without having to bother with the expense of obtaining formal resident status.

Keep Your Medicare

Living in Mazatlan, you could return easily to the United States to use Medicare. If you're considering this move as a retiree, nearing or over the age of 65, this can be Mexico's most compelling advantage. Mexico offers excellent health care, but Medicare won't pay for itwith limited exceptions, Medicare doesn't cross any border. However, if you retire in Mexico, you'd be only a drive or quick flight away from accessing your benefits.

This means keeping and continuing to pay for Medicare coverage in addition to any other health insurance you might opt for. This can be a good strategy for a Medicare-eligible retiree moving to any foreign country, a safety net.

The Cost Of Living

While the living is not as cheap as it was in the 1970s when Americans began migrating to Mexico in volume, it's a global bargain and more of a budgeter's delight right now than it's been in a long time thanks to the U.S. dollars strength.

In some parts of the country, this translates to super real estate deals. But even where real estate trades in U.S. dollars, the strong dollar makes everything elsefrom a liter of gasoline and a week's worth of groceries to a suite of bedroom furniture and a night out on the towna bargain. Two can dine five stars, enjoying three courses and good wine, for less than 50 bucks.

#3: Cayo, Belize

iStock/THPstock

Belize remains off the world's radar. Nobody is targeting or intent on stirring up trouble in this little country thats part Caribbean, part Central American. Most people dont give Belize a second thought. In today's world, that's a plus.

The country is one of the most important members of the Caribbean Community, thanks to its arable land and agricultural capacity. It helps provide food security for CARICOM, an international community of primarily small English-speaking island nations.

Belize has pristine marine, rainforest, and environments and a small population, so, in addition to being food secure, it is a great vacation destination and an ideal place to live.

Cayo is the breadbasket of Belize principally because of the industriousness of the Mennonites of Spanish Lookout, a booming town with thriving businesses and a back-to-basics, traditional way of life.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that the average American meal travels 1,500 miles from farm to market. The movement is toward sourcing food from within 100 miles. In Cayo, your food could be sourced within 10 miles. Living here, you could even enjoy a Zero Mile Diet. Imported foods are available if you want them, but its possible in Cayo to be food secure and not dependent upon an elaborate, vulnerable, and costly global supply chain.

Here are six more reasons Cayo, Belize, is an ideal option for a self-sufficient, resilient, sustainable, neighborly, and fun life...

Reliable Water Sources

Residents of Cayo catch, store, and filter rain water, and ground water is likewise in abundant supply. The rivers in this area are known for providing an alternative for garden irrigation and an everyday option for fishing.

Energy Independence

Living off-grid with solar and rain-catchment doesn't have to mean giving up the amenities of the modern world. In Cayo, you can live a fully self-sufficient life that includes high-speed internet, modern appliances, and all other comforts of the 21st century.

Low Population Density

During a disruption in the supply chain, as we are seeing now, it's good to be a safe distance from big, dense cities. Belize has a population density of just 37 people per square mile. The whole country feels like a small town. The small population makes it easy to become part of the community, and both locals and expats who've settled here are welcoming and willing to lend a hand or make an effort for a neighbor.

English Speaking

As a former English colony (and still a part of the English Commonwealth), Belize is the only officially English-speaking country in Central America. One of the biggest challenges you can face when making a move to a new country is communicating with your new neighbors. Anywhere you might think about moving, including Belize, you'll have to learn to overcome and adapt to cultural differences. A language difference makes that and everything else, from giving directions to a taxi driver and filling a prescription at the pharmacy to getting your broken hot water heater fixed and negotiating for the purchase of a new home, more difficult. In Belize, you don't have to worry about learning a new language if you don't want to.

Great Weather

The country is blessed with abundant year-round sunshine. Rainy season extends from June to November, but, even during those months, skies are sunny more than they're not. The reliable sunshine makes for happy, healthy living and also a great growing environment.

Little Crime

Some small areas of Belize City suffer from a drug trade, gangs, and the activities that come with those cultures. However, those are localized neighborhoods. Avoid them. Otherwise, Belize is one of the safest places on earth and far removed from 21st-century troubles.

Kathleen Peddicord

Go here to see the original:
Living And Retiring Overseas Post The CoronavirusThree Top Options - Forbes

Healthy Living, Hand Hygiene – The Siasat Daily

Posted on by

Hyderabad: Dr P. Vinay Kumar, in his video titled Healthy Living, emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene and shows how to wash hands and save water.

He being a surgeon, has to constantly wash his hands before every surgery. If the hands are not washed properly the surgeon can transmit infection to the patients during surgery. Says Dr Kumar.

He says palm of the hand is the most infected area because we keep on touching a lot of things. So palms should be washed thoroughly by rubbing both the palms together with soap.

The second most infected area is under the nails, which is called the nail bed. He advises to cut the nails as close as possible to the bed so that nothing can lodge under the nails. It is the most fertile area where dirt and infection deposit easily.

The third most sensitive area is the web the space in between the two fingers. Dr Kumar says, because of two reasons the web is most sensitive. One reason is, the web space is a closed area so infections deposit there easily. The other reason is, as this area is damp due to moisture and sweat bacteria or viruses breed there. Therefore, these three areas should be washed thoroughly.

He also gives importance to the back of the hands, and forearms which are always in contact with the surfaces. Therefore, hands should be washed thoroughly up to the elbows.

On saving water while washing hands he says, the moment a person wets his hands and applies soap to the hands, he must close the tap immediately by pressing or pushing the tap with elbows, avoiding wet fingers which are already contaminated.

We are instructing people to wash hands for a long time up to 20-40 seconds because there would be a huge wastage of water during this time. If we collect that water in a bucket, then we will realise how much water is being wasted. So avoid wasting water. Says Dr Kumar.

He further states that today coronavirus may affect 5-30 percent of the worlds population but water shortage will effect 100% of the worlds population. Dr. Kumar emphasizes on the fact that the world may get rid of the virus soon but if we face a water crisis, we may never be able to overcome that problem. Hence, we all must save water.

He states the reason why he is advising everyone to close the tap with elbows while washing hands is because, if the water is running while washing hands, psychologically, a person will be in a hurry to close the tap and may not wash his hands properly.If the tap is closed with elbows, there will be no wastage of water and one will concentrate on washing his hands properly.

Dr Vinay Kumar is a Surgical Gastroenterologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon at Apollo Hospital Hyderabad and a Socio-Politician.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

See more here:
Healthy Living, Hand Hygiene - The Siasat Daily

Everything Natural Expo exposes visitors to healthy living – The Abington Journal

Posted on by

March 10, 2020

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation officials were present at the monthly ACOG (Abington Council of Governments) meeting on March 5 at which area projects were discussed.

Rich Roman, district executive for PennDOT District 4, began by telling ACOG members that the staff of PennDOT will answer questions they may have. He said that PennDOT is challenging the new employees to step up in their positions.

Im really positive and hopeful and really looking forward to what the next decade of District 4 will be, he said. Roman said PennDOT will be working on about 66 projects this year including highways and bridges, He encouraged anyone from ACOG to comment or ask questions.

Clarks Summit Councilwoman Gerrie Carey told Roman how the old stormwater pipes are caving on Grove Street . She said that boroughs and townships are under different rulings.

If it was a township, the state would come in and take care of it, she said. But when its a borough, they dont.

Roman replied that there are different laws that govern drainage depending on the boroughs or townships. We have to follow whats in the law, he said.

Roman said that in townships, PennDOT bears the responsibility and in the boroughs, its up to the boroughs. He recalls when he worked in a different position in Harrisburg, the population centers of the state were different.

We try to find ways to partner and to do things, he said. And I know were doing some things with Clarks Green as far as it relates to a maintenance agreement, but its tough when you see those aging systems starting to fail, and our hands are tied as well.

Carey asked if there are any grants in which ACOG can apply for. Roman said that grants are competitive and would need a good grant writer. He also said that the resources are scarce.

ACOG recording secretary Marnie Palmer asked why there arent prisoners clearing Interstate 81. Roman said that the Department of Corrections dont want prisoners cleaning litter since it doesnt teach them life skills they need after getting out of prison.

He said a campaign is needed so that people arent littering.

We ask out counties usually in the summer every two weeks to try to come through a pick-up or something but the next day, it looks like you dont do anything, he said.

Dalton Councilwoman Elizabeth Bonczar asked who enforces littering laws. Roman answered that someone cant be cited unless a trooper sees that person litter. Charles Wrobel, of Factoryville Borough Council, suggested more signage.

Pennsylvania does not have the sign I see in other states, he said.

Bonczar asked Roman how to acquire speed sentry signs for Dalton. Roman replied that by saying she can send a letter to PennDOT, and they will ask the traffic engineer. Chris Goetz, municipal services engineer, then said that boroughs have the option to purchase their own signs which collect data.

Roman announced that work zones across the state will have photo enforcement. He said that when someone exceeds the sped limit, a camera will take a picture of that persons license plate. He said that the citation will be sent to the owner of that car. Your first offense is a warning, he said. The second offense is $75. The third offense and thereafter is 150 (dollars). Roman said that this system is in participation with the state police and the PA Turnpike. He assured that it isnt made to make PennDOT money but to have drivers slow down and prevent crashes. He said that in 2018, 23 people died in work zones. Susan Hazelton, assistant district executive of PennDOT, handed out schedules with upcoming District 4 projects such as the resurfacing on State Route 1027 (Layton Road) from State Route 11 (Northern Blvd) to State Route 632 (Commerce Road). This (schedule) might change just a little bit as we can go on and a little bit at a time, she said to ACOG. We can get you an update yearly (or) however you want to see that update.

Rick Williams, of Clarks Green, expressed concerns about two intersections both on Abington Road. He said that the intersections of Highland Ave. and Abington Road and Fairview Road and Abington Road cause congestion both day and night. He said that when ACOG began twenty years ago, one of the first major projects was to have a traffic study by PennDOT. He said that when he was a councilman, he applied for a 10-year program, in which Council had to reapply every two years. He said that during the fourth year, he left Council.

I checked in year six, and our secretary and council president had renewed the request, he said. I checked again in year eight, and they had dropped the ball. And all that work was lost, so nothing ever happened to Abington Road.

Williams asked PennDOT how to get back in this project. Hazelton said that a potential traffic signal would help the intersections. Williams said that Council cant afford a signal. She then advised Williams to write a letter, which would go to PennDOTs transportation planning organization.

ACOG president Dennis Macheska praised PennDOT for their work with the townships over the years.

PennDOT has been good to us, he said. And we are good to PennDOT.

Macheska said that this year, Ransom Twp is repairing two roads Community Drive and Beacon Drive. He mentioned that Ransom is taking the money for this out of their budget, not the liquid fuels fund.

Joyce Hatala, representing Benton Twp, praised PennDOT for working with her to renovate the bridge on Baylors Lake. She said that she tried to get the bridge onto the National Register of Historical Places. I know its eligible, she said.

Roman said that if anyone has any more questions, they can contact PennDOT.

In other business, Hatala, who is a Pennsylvajia master watershed steward for Penn State Extension, will speak about a homeowners guide to stormwater to prevent stormwater runoff in their property and to improve water quality and correct planting. She will speak about this during the regular monthly ACOG meeting on Thursday, May 7.

Go here to read the rest:
Everything Natural Expo exposes visitors to healthy living - The Abington Journal

Healthy Living: Palliative care team treats seriously ill patients – Norwich Bulletin

Posted on by

By Lisa Hageman For The Bulletin

MondayMar23,2020at6:34PM

Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. This type of care is provided by an interdisciplinary team of professionals that can include nurses, doctors, social workers, clergy, and others who are focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, and in doing so, improving the quality of life for both the person with the illness and the people who care about them.

Part of the care provided by a palliative care service is discussing the medical facts as assessed by the medical team in language that is easily understood, answering questions about the medical plan of care and health care choices surrounding the plan of care, all while keeping the person experiencing the illness at the center.

During these goals of care discussions, the palliative care team assists with helping people with serious illnesses identify the person they would rely on to make medical decisions on their behalf if they were unable, and to talk through their goals and preferences as they relate to future heath care wishes.

Access to and connection with this type of care can be through your health care provider in the community or during an inpatient stay in the hospital.

In the event that you or a loved one are diagnosed with a serious illness, a palliative care team can help you to navigate the complex healthcare world, including walking with you as you seek treatments (like chemotherapy or dialysis) for your disease, and help manage symptoms and live as well as possible in a body thats not working well.

If a time comes that your medical team assesses that further treatment is not possible or becomes too risky, or the patient decides thatfurther treatment is not wanted and comfort and allowing for natural death is the goal of care, Hospice can become involved to support you as you face your end of life. Questions about how palliative care may help you or a loved one may be directed to the Backus Hospital Inpatient Palliative Care Service at 860-889-8331 ext. 6829.

Lisa Hageman is the manager of the Preventive Medicine Initiative at Backus Hospital.

Read more:
Healthy Living: Palliative care team treats seriously ill patients - Norwich Bulletin

Float therapy helping many to rest, rejuvenate | Healthy Living – Uniontown Herald Standard

Posted on by

When Jeff Jalbrizikowski was in Chicago for a work conference recently, he searched for, and found, a float therapy spa.

About 10 months ago, Jalbrizikowski, 37, of Pittsburgh, incorporated float therapy into his self-care routine.

At least once a month, the U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and is an avid cyclist and runner, floats in total darkness and silence in an egg-shaped tank filled with Epsom salt at True REST Float Spa in Scott Township.

At first, it was pretty weird, but within five minutes of my first time there, I smiled. I had a big grin of my face, said Jalbrizikowski. I was just able to relax. It wasnt some miraculous cure, but floating gives me a chance to get super relaxed. Its given me a mindset that its OK to relax.

Once considered a fad embraced by hippies, floating is gaining respect as a wellness practice and is becoming more mainstream.

Float therapy, or REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy), has been embraced by athletes in many sports - including NFL, NBA and MLB players, marathoners and Olympic athletes - who tout physical and mental benefits theyve experienced, such as quicker recovery time, improved mental visualization and better sleep.

Nate Apland, manager of the Scott Township True REST Float Spa said Pittsburgh Steelers, American Ninja warriors, University of Pittsburgh Panthers and other athletes have floated there, and the company that installed True RESTs pods also installed one in New England Patriots quarterback Tom Bradys home.

But athletes arent the only people who float. Apland said floaters come in all ages and come for a variety of reasons: easing chronic pain, to increase circulation and reduce stress and anxiety.

Floating helps with a lot of things. Theres a physical and mental benefit, said Apland, a former exercise physiologist. The pod kind of gives you what you need. Its a great environment because there are no distractions, no cell phones going off. We are being over-stimulated nonstop today, and thats a huge reason why youre seeing people with anxiety and stress. The hour that youre here is an hour where youre shutting off the stimulation to your brain. We say, jokingly, that its a mental and a physical re-set.

True REST offers eight suites, complete with a changing area, rainfall shower, earplugs, petroleum jelly (to cover cuts that might be irritated during the float) and a tub filled with 10 inches of water and about 1,200 pounds of Epsom salt. The salt content is about 30%, making it twice as buoyant as the Dead Sea and enabling the body to float.

There are no pressure points on the body when its floating.

The magnesium in the water, Apland said, helps reduce inflammation and leaves skin smooth.

Floaters have the option to keep the lights off, or select one of several colors in the tub. They also can listen to music piped in through a speaker in the tub, bring their own music, or float in silence.

Apland said a majority of clients float with the lights off.

The pod can be closed completely, or left open.

After the float, clients are provided with tea or water, and have access to an oxygen bar that offers 94% pure oxygen that is run through distilled water infused with plant-based essential oils.

Floating was invented in the mid 1950s by neuroscientist Dr. John Lilly, who began experimenting with the minds response to sensory deprivation. Participants in his study were placed into a flotation chamber Lilly built, and when they emerged, they reported feelings of intense relaxation and calm.

Apland cited an MRI study conducted by Dr. Justin Feinstein, a neuropsychologist and director of the Float Clinic and Research Center at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research in Tulsa, Okla., that determined floating shuts down the amygdala, the area of the brain that triggers the fight-or-flight response.

Thats important for people with PTSD, anxiety and stress because it actually reduces stress in a way that medication and prescription drugs do, without the side effects, said Apland, who noted True REST offers free floats to military veterans, active military personnel, and first responders once a month.

By the early 2000s, interest in float therapy - which went out of favor in the 1980s - rekindled. In 2009, less than two dozen float spas operated. Now, there are hundreds.

Thats welcome news for Jalbrizikowski, a land surveyor who travels often.

Float therapy has helped him improve physically and mentally, he said. In the past year, he has dropped 35 pounds, has recovered from sports injuries and has noticed an improved mood.

Again, its not magic, but its been good for me, mentally, and I feel like Ive been able to get back to cycling and running because Ive healed from the injuries Ive suffered. Ive been pleased with myself in 2019, said Jalbrizikowski. Somehow, its helped.

See the rest here:
Float therapy helping many to rest, rejuvenate | Healthy Living - Uniontown Herald Standard

Forum: Add reward, incentive element in healthy living push – The Straits Times

Posted on by

Giving Singaporeans aged 65 and above free entry into public gyms and swimming pools is a good move by the Government (Keep free entry to gyms, pools for seniors to off-peak hours, by Mr Nigel Marcus Ong Chin Hock, March 14).

Other than fine-tuning details on peak and non-peak hours of entry, the Government should consider adding some kind of incentives to make the policy more comprehensive and results-oriented.

The aim should not only be to encourage younger Singaporeans to have healthy lifestyles during their prime, but also to have something for them to look forward to by keeping fit and not being couch potatoes.

Equally important is that a healthy populace will mean less of a demand and strain on the nation's medical facilities.

Instead of allocating funds to build one public hospital after another, it is far better and less costly to build and maintain facilities to encourage healthy lifestyles that will translate into better productivity and even a bigger gross domestic product.

On the flip side, Singaporeans who have not paid attention to what they consume and how they live before reaching age 65, will not gain much from the free entry into public gyms and pools.

By then, some may not be able to enjoy the concession as they are already in poor health.

The incentive element is more vital to spur Singaporeans to be responsible, live well and stay healthy for their own good and for their families.

Between the two, free-entry concession versus incentive, the latter aspect has both the prevention and reward features.

Tan Kok Tim

Originally posted here:
Forum: Add reward, incentive element in healthy living push - The Straits Times

Healthy living, not expensive creams makes skin glow – Free Malaysia Today

Posted on by

Being fit and eating right are key to having healthy-looking skin, researchers say. (Rawpixel pic)

ST ANDREWS: New UK research has found that if you want to achieve a natural glow, then a healthy lifestyle with exercise, enough sleep, and not too much stress can all add a healthy, golden tone to your skin.

Previous research has already linked a healthy diet high in fruit and vegetables to skin yellowness, which the researchers say is an indicator of health, as fruit and veggies are packed with antioxidant-coloured pigments called carotenoids, such as orange carotene from carrots and red lycopene from tomatoes.

These coloured pigments then accumulate in the skin, giving it a yellow tone which can indicate good health as it suggests that a persons body has enough antioxidants and low levels of oxidative toxins.

However, for the new study, led by the University of St Andrews, the researchers wanted to look at the link between skin yellowness and exercise.

To do this, the team recruited 134 university students of various ethnicities, and measured their skin colour using a spectrophotometer, which records illumination and the rainbow of colours reflected from the skin.

The participants also had their heart rate measured while walking and running on a treadmill to assess their fitness levels and had their body fat levels recorded.

The findings, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, showed that both a high level of fitness and low body fat were associated with a higher skin yellowness, which makes the skin look healthier and more attractive.

The team say that the yellower skin was not due to a suntan or even diet.

Instead, they believe that exercise could boost the bodys own antioxidant systems, and so instead of needing to use up the carotenoid pigments which one ingests from their diet, they are free to accumulate in the skin, giving people a yellow tone.

To investigate further, the researchers then looked at whether experiencing a change in health would also result in a change in skin appearance.

After following 59 students who were members of sports clubs, the researchers found that an increase in fitness or losing body fat were both linked with an increase in skin yellowness.

On the other hand, an increase in stress and not getting enough sleep were both associated with a reduction in skin yellowness.

Once again, the researchers say changes in skin colour were not due to suntan or from training outdoors.

The team say the findings now suggest that in addition to eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, and other healthy lifestyle factors such as exercising, losing excess body fat, reducing stress and getting enough sleep could all boost skin colour.

As skin colour is also linked to attractiveness, they added that this could help motivate people to follow a healthier lifestyle.

Lead scientist for the study, Professor David Perrett, also added that, We were surprised to find that the skin colour changes accompanying change in health occurred quite quickly and within eight weeks.

This means that any effort to improve lifestyle will benefit appearance within a relatively short time.

Original post:
Healthy living, not expensive creams makes skin glow - Free Malaysia Today

Tips for getting healthy in the workplace – The Oakland Press

Posted on by

More than ever, companies recognize the need to support employees on and off the clock. In fact, about half of employers offer some type of health promotion or well-being program. Its a nationwide effort proven to increase productivity, improve morale and boost employee retention. The average person spends one-third of their life on the job, making these programs a valuable investment in their long-term success.

Every workplace is different so creating a successful wellness program depends on employees health goals and areas of interest. From quitting smoking to financial planning, establishing promotion programs can reduce health care costs and absenteeism among staff. Here are some examples:

Gym discounts: Employers can encourage people to be physically active with corporate discounts at participating gyms or fitness clubs. They can also provide incentives through a healthy living program, which may monitor weight, tobacco use, blood pressure, cholesterol or blood sugar.

Online resources: Employers may also suggest employees create an online account with their health insurance company to utilize wellness resources. This includes free health assessments, symptom checkers, medical records, fitness trackers and even recipes.

Seminars: Some employers provide virtual seminars with experts to promote lifelong learning. Through financial planning, mindfulness, meditation and gratitude, employees are empowered to take control of every aspect of their well-being.

Tobacco cessation coaching: It isnt easy to stop smoking. It takes personal, and in some cases, professional support. Employers can partner with outside organizations to provide coaching and mentoring for employees eager to break the habit.

Not every employer can offer a full spectrum of well-being programs. But there are ways employees can make healthier choices that have a similar impact. Over time, the following actions can lead to big, life-changing results:

Drink more water: Water is more than 50% of the bodys composition and is integral to maintaining good health. It helps flush out of toxins, removing waste and other harmful elements. Staying hydrated is also a simple way to combat fatigue, manage weight and improve focus.

Find an accountability partner: Coworkers who share similar health goals can create their own support system. Friendly step competitions, weekly check-ins and ongoing conversations about workplace wellness can keep them accountable and help to maintain healthy habits.

Pack a lunch: By preparing their own meals, employees have power over food portions. This also helps to limit or avoid ingredients that may be detrimental to their goals. In addition, bringing healthy snacks to work can also curb cravings or lingering hunger.

Step away from the chair: Workplace meetings dont have to be stationary. Just three hours of continuous sitting can cause poor circulation and vascular damage. Consider taking a walk during conference calls. Using this time to stretch can help prevent blood clots, arterial strain and sudden stiffness.

Cindy Bjorkquist is the director of well-being programs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health tips, visit MIBluesPerspectives.com.

See more here:
Tips for getting healthy in the workplace - The Oakland Press

Montgomery Co. leaders sound the alarm over school nursing shortage – WTOP

Posted on by

Two Montgomery County Council committees are recommending the creation of six new school nurse positions in hopes of alleviating an ongoing shortage in the county.

Two Montgomery County Council committees are recommending the creation of six new school nurse positions in hopes of alleviating an ongoing shortage in Marylands largest school system.

The Education and Culture Committee and the Health and Human Services Committee met for a joint session Monday, months after they had both asked County Executive Marc Elrich to allocate enough money in next years budget to hire 12 new school nurses.

The countys budget for 2020 did not end up including the money for those nurses, but council members say Mondays recommendation carries an additional sense of urgency.

Council Member Craig Rice said the newest recommendation is a sign the nursing shortage has reached emergency status.

We understand how it presents a challenge to the executive branch from a budgeting perspective, Rice said. If we did not feel if this was of the emergency nature that it is, we wouldnt do this. We dont do this lightly.

Montgomery County has a nurse-to-student ratio of 1 to 1,600 far higher than neighboring counties, including Prince Georges County, which has the second-highest enrollment of all Maryland public school systems but a nurse-to-student ratio of 1 to 693.

During Mondays session, council members raised concerns that the nursing shortage is leading to students not getting the care they deserve.

We hear about the challenges of things falling through the cracks because nurses cant be in three places at once, Rice said. These are the kinds of continuous challenges that really provide some great concern for us.

Dr. Travis Gayles, the countys health officer, told the committees that school nurses are paramount in teaching students about health care, and said nurses can model healthy living habits.

If younger people have a positive experience within the health care realm, theyre more likely to utilize that space as they get theyre older and trust that experience to be able to come in and take advantage of those resources, Gayles said.

Gayles speculated that if the county does add the six proposed new nursing positions, at least four of them would end up in high schools. Between the more than 200 schools in Montgomery County, there are fewer than 100 nurses.

There is no catching up, Rice said. At this point, were trying to tread water.

Like WTOP on Facebook and follow @WTOP on Twitter to engage in conversation about this article and others.

2019 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

Originally posted here:

Montgomery Co. leaders sound the alarm over school nursing shortage - WTOP

Stoneham Couple Benefits From Healthy Aging Tai Chi Program – Patch.com

Posted on by

Dick Van Dyke is the reason Eddie Di Muzzio can now lift one leg off the floor. Just a year ago, he couldn't imagine balancing himself without holding onto a chair.

Eddie and his wife, Pauline, were watching a television program hosted by the actor/comedian Dick Van Dyke. Van Dyke, who is 93 years old and an advocate of a healthy aging lifestyle, was promoting the Tai Cheng program, a form of Tai Chi, particularly geared toward older adults. He credited Tai Chi for improving his mobility. Van Dyke's program convinced Eddie and Pauline to give Tai Chi a try to help improve their coordination and balance, which had been a problem for them for years.

As Stoneham residents, the couple signed up for a Dr. Paul Lam's Tai Chi for Health course at the Stoneham Senior Center. The course is offered through Mystic Valley Elder Services as part of its Healthy Aging Program. It consists of a free eight-week, one-hour class on learning the basics of Tai Chi. The couple was hooked and have been taking classes for more than a year.

Prior to taking the Tai Chi classes, Eddie could hardly stand. He had pain and stiffness throughout his legs and suffered from light neuropathy in his foot. And when he did stand, his balance was off. Pauline shared the same problem, her coordination while walking was poor. Eddie, at nearly 88 years old, and Pauline, being 84, just accepted it as a burden of getting old.

Eddie and Pauline are currently taking their third Healthy Aging Program Tai Chi course, this one at the Milano Family Senior Center in Melrose. Because the Tai Chi courses are so popular, the class was filled at the Stoneham location. But that did not stop them from taking classes.

"We really enjoy the class and the company," says Eddie. "Many of the same people take the classes so we get to know one another. There is only one other male in the class, so we hang out together."

Eddie admits that it took him a while to learn the steps and get acclimated to the moves. But as he learned when he began to play the piano back in the day, it is all about practice. He is beginning to master the movements and can feel the difference in his legs with more flexibility and less pain. Pauline can see a major difference in her walking; her coordination is much better than it was a year ago.

Another reason the couple continues to take the course is because of their class leader, Susan Becker. "Susan is a people person," says Pauline. "She is very personable and a great leader. She explains the process making sure all of us understand it and will work with you until you have the movement down."

Both agree that having Susan lead their class really adds to the sessions. "She's an excellent teacher," says Eddie. "She goes over the actions until we have retained what we have learned."

Coincidently, Susan recently won the Kate Lorig Healthy Living Innovation Award, which is given by the Healthy Living Center of Excellence annually to recognize the innovative efforts of individuals or organizations for their creative thinking, commitment, and implementation of ideas that improve the quality of life for older adults through healthy aging programs.

For more information on Mystic Valley Elder Services' Healthy Aging Programs, please contact Donna Covelle, Healthy Aging Program Coordinator, at (781) 388-4867 or dcovelle@mves.org.

Read more:

Stoneham Couple Benefits From Healthy Aging Tai Chi Program - Patch.com

Live long and die healthy: How a group of Winnipeggers are working to live to 116 with a focus on fun, fitness – CBC.ca

Posted on by

Nestor Mudryswears he will not relinquishthe presidency of the 116 Club as long as he lives.

And if he hits his goal, that will be at least another 18 years.

On this day, the 98-year-old's throneis a recumbent cross-trainer think astationary bike and elliptical machinerolled into one at the Reh-Fit Centre, a Winnipeg gym and wellness centre.

But he doesn't rule his subjects with an iron fist. He's quitecomfortable with his workout pals, cracking jokes at his own expense.

"You've never given me any good reasons to why you've lived till 98," says fellow gym-goer Dean Doerr, quizzingMudry on the buzz around his club atthe Reh-Fit Centre.

"It's because I'm stubborn," Mudryquips.

The 116 Club believes in seniority. Mudry is the president sincehe'sthe oldest, and he expects to hold the mantle for awhile.

The 116 Club is a group of spry fitness enthusiasts, mostly seniors, with the arguably lofty goal of living until116 years old the age of the oldest living persontoday, Japan's Kane Tanaka.

While the executive saysthat's the goal, most members aren't really gunning for such longevity.

Hitting 116 is "probably beyond the reach of most of us, but hey, if you're going to do something worthwhile, you strive for things that are beyond your grasp," said Allan Appel, who handles the club's public relations. "That's what we're doing."

The members say they would settle for living a good, independent lifeas long as possible.

"Die healthy" is the group's slogan.

"It's a little strange, but it makes you think,"Appel, a retired teacher, says of theirtwo-word mantra.

"It'sall part of the tongue-in-cheek effort that this group has to keep the spirits up."

Appel describes the club as a goodwill group of peoplepromoting their own health. Aside from membership at the Reh-Fit Centre, there's no cost orcommitment beyond apledge to live, eat and sleep well.

"If you are going to join, you'll partakein the humour and theirony of it all,"Appelexplains.

Another perk of membership iscake, he says.

Meet some of the members of the 116 Club:

Every three months, members celebrate the birthdays of anyone who is oneyear closer to 116.

Those eventslook more likethe kind of celebration you might expect to see for the club members' grandchildren.

During one such party, a "Happy Birthday" banner is strung up in the lobby of the Reh-Fit. Thereare seniors wearing matchingwhite shirts with the number "116" in blue lettering. On top of a balloon-printed tablecloth isa large slab cake, with the names of 17 celebrantsandcandles for each of them.

It's all in good fun, Appel says.

"What's the point of being healthy if you aren't treating yourself every once in a while?"

The genesisfor this club was with executive directorAbuMasood, 72. His grandfather died at 106, and Masooddecided he wanted to live 10 years longer than him.

His personal goal became a collective one at the Reh-Fit Centre, after he founded the116 Clublast summer.

"That's my motive of life. I want to make people healthy eat good, sleep good, make your life good," Masood said."If your health is good, youhave everything."

Not everybody can join. He looks for thepeopleworking out regularly at the gym, like him.

"Before I take membership, I keep an eye.Who iscoming regularly?ThenI approachthem," Masood said.

"Do they love keeping healthy?Thoseare the people. Not the 'once in awhile, once a month I show up.'"

He pays for the 116shirts and the birthday cake out of his own pocket.

He envisions his club, which now has 76 members and counting, as analternativeto the health-care system alone dealing with an aging population.

Masood knows exercise cannot prevent every medical ailment, but he says ithelps. One clubmember, he says, took the"die healthy" mantra to heart after their mother-in-law became ill and needed constant supervision.

"He says, 'Abu, now I got what you mean by die healthy. If my mother-in-law was healthy, we would have been free from a lot of things,'" Masood said.

He hopes the concept for the club can be expanded elsewhere, and wantsto apply for grants to help cover thegroup's expenses.

The 116 Club's members say it's made a difference in their lives.

Reisa Adelmanhas been going to the gym for years, but says she now feels a sense of belonging thanks to thegroup.

"He includes all these people who were just on their own," she says of Masood, while going through herdumbbell exercises.

"People like Abu make it even better."

On a nearby resistance machine, Appelis fidgeting with how much weight hecan lift.

"I set the dials to a much higher level so the people after me are impressed," he jokes, beforeshiftingto a back extension machine.

It's obvious helikes the camaraderieamong members of the 116 Club.

"Do I look good, taking a break?" he asks another gym-goer wearing a 116 shirt.

"Everybody looks good taking a break," Jim Wallace replies, without missing a beat. At 87, walking around the track is his workout of choice.

People don't like talking about death, club presidentMudry hasnoticed. He appreciates that the 116 Club doesn't shy away from the subject.

"We thought we'd face the whole issue head-on and say, 'We think that death is inevitable, so let's do all we can to make it as pleasant an experience as we can.'"

He says that for him,living until 116 is an "eventuality." Mudry is so confident, in fact, that he'sbeen asking the club what happens after that.

Their reply?

"Well, if you get to be 116 and to 117, we will then change the name to the 117 Club."

See the original post here:

Live long and die healthy: How a group of Winnipeggers are working to live to 116 with a focus on fun, fitness - CBC.ca

Upfield Convenes High-Level Group of Experts to Improve Consumer Education and Healthy Choices within the Food Industry – PRNewswire

Posted on by

Notable participants included Prof Antonis Zampelas (Agricultural University of Athens, University College London), Prof Ingeborg Brouwer (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) and Dr Elke Trautwein (Kiel University). Through this energetic panel discussion, notable points of consensus were:

"Consumers are confused by multiple studies making conflicting health claims about saturated fats. These are often meta-analyses conducted without paying attention to the nutritional context of the studies, and can vastly misinterpret the data and the quality of research,"said Prof Ingeborg Brouwer, Professor of Nutrition for Healthy Living, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. "To ensure consumers are not confused by conflicting messages, we must ensure our claims are based on the totality of evidence as judged by experts in the field of nutrition and health."

The session was broadcast via live webinar where a recorded version remains online, and participants hope it will be instructive in helping the food industry to use valuable insights from public health experts to inform product development and communication with consumers.

The symposium was an active example of the food industry learning from academics in the public health field, and paves the way for clear, accurate consumer education in future. Paul Whitehouse, Upfield's Global Director of Scientific Affairs, called for further collaboration between the private and public sectors, and with academia, in order to support consumers in making healthy choices and decreasing the risk of diet-related chronic disease.

ABOUT UPFIELD At Upfield, we make people healthier and happier with great tasting, plant-based nutrition products that are better for the planet. As a global plant-based company, Upfield is the #1 producer of plant-based spreads with more than 60 brands, including iconic brands Flora, Rama, Blue Band, ProActiv, Becel, I Can't Believe It's Not Butter and Country Crock. With headquarters in Amsterdam, we sell our products in over 95 countries and have 17 manufacturing sites throughout the world. The company employs over 3100 associates. Since 1871, we have been the authority in the spreads category which gives us unmatched experience, know-how and inspiration. We are focused on leading in this new era focused on delivering healthier products that are great tasting and have superior quality and helps us deliver on our mission to create "Better Plant-based Future." For more information, please visit our website at http://www.Upfield.com.

SOURCE Upfield

http://www.upfield.com

Excerpt from:

Upfield Convenes High-Level Group of Experts to Improve Consumer Education and Healthy Choices within the Food Industry - PRNewswire

6 health benefits of eating wild game – TribLIVE

Posted on by

The alarm goes off in the pre-dawn dark and, rolling over, you touch the shoulder of your significant other.

An affectionate yet sly smile crosses your lips.

Shh, you say. Shh. Its OK. Im just letting you know Im leaving.

Huh? What? Where? he or she asks.

Hunting, you answer. I know I promised to stay home and rake leaves, clean the gutters, fold that pile of laundry in the corner.

But I love you too much, love the kids too much, for that. Im going to spend the day in a tree stand instead, or walk behind the bird dog, or look for a turkey under a stand of blazing fall, acorn-heavy oaks.

Not for me, but for you. I want to put good, healthy, eco-friendly meals on the table.

Ever tried justifying a day in the woods like that? Successfully?

Yeah, me neither.

But maybe we should get a little more credit. Wild game is, after all, incredibly healthful food.

If you doubt that, consider these six health benefits of eating wild protein.

Fat is not all bad.

According to the American Heart Association, fat is a nutrient needed for healthy living. In the proper amounts and varieties, fats help keep us warm, provide energy, support cell growth and more.

But, as is the case with so many things, too much is a bad thing. And domestic meats tend to be fatty.

Wild animals are leaner because of their lifestyle. They simply get more exercise and eat better.

Penn State University says a 3.5-ounce cut of beef, for example, has 2.7 grams of fat. An identical cut of venison from a white-tailed deer has 1.4.

For that same reason, a cut of beef contains more calories than a similar-sized piece of venison.

Harvard Medical School says a proper diet will include both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. In the right proportions, they promote heart health, among other things.

The problem is that modern diets typically contain too much of the former and too little of the latter.

According to research done by Purdue University, steers fed grains have a 5-to-1, or even sometimes 13-to-1, ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 acids.

By comparison, the ratio of so-called caveman fat is a far healthier 2-to-1 in deer and elk.

Eating that kind of meat, the research says, lessens obesity, lowers cholesterol and decreases the chances of things like strokes.

Iron is an essential mineral to a healthy diet, as it helps transfer oxygen from the lungs to tissues.

Yet iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world. Some estimates are that it impacts 25% of the people on the planet.

Likewise, zinc is critical to good health, as it promotes immune systems, slows age-related muscle degeneration and helps wounds heal.

Wild game offers good amounts of both. More, in fact, than many domestic meats.

Farm-raised livestock and especially whats been called factory farm livestock is invariably subjected to antibiotics and growth hormones.

Thats meant to limit disease and promote growth. The idea is to grow as many fat, relatively healthy animals as possible.

But even with all that, commercially-produced food can be tainted. A 12-year study done by the Center for Science in the Public Interest says common ground beef and chicken are among the riskiest foods to have in your kitchen.

And thats to say nothing of concerns that all those veterinary drugs might pose human health concerns.

Free-ranging, wild game from deer to squirrels contains none of those drugs. Its as natural as natural gets.

It takes a lot of livestock to feed the growing number of people on this planet. And increasingly, factory farms are producing it.

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization says large-scale livestock production think industrial facilities is now the norm. There are implications to that.

Scientists say industrial farming at least potentially impacts everything from global warming and biodiversity to land and water resources and human health.

Its no wonder the Environmental Protection Agency regulates such facilities much like they would, say, a mill.

In contrast, hunting for wild game or trapping or fishing for it is eco-friendly. It involves no pollution. And youve got to track it down, which is good exercise in itself.

Plus, hunting is the tool that wildlife managers use to sustain game populations.

Many people who eat wild game for the first time refer to its gaminess.

What theyre tasting is, well, flavor.

Wild animals exercise more than their domestic counterparts, which boosts blood circulation. They also eat more varied diets and often live longer. Add it all up and game meat higher in protein and richer in vitamins just generally tastes more intense.

Thats not a bad thing. Far from it.

That people might think so is just reflective of a world where blander foods are the norm.

Sure, preparing wild game requires different techniques sometimes. Some cuts of wild game though not all require longer, slower cooking methods to make them tender.

But far from tasting bad, wild game tastes as good as it is healthy.

So the next time you head afield, do it with a smile. Youre not just having fun, but in your labors youre taking one for the team by providing healthy options for the table.

You can make the argument anyway.

TribLIVE's Daily and Weekly email newsletters deliver the news you want and information you need, right to your inbox.

More Food & Drink Stories

View original post here:

6 health benefits of eating wild game - TribLIVE