HealthyLife Articles

Category: Uncategorized

  • “I Know Where You Are”

    WELL-BEING

    Illustration of smartphone next to a shield with the word "security".

    The new you may not be you at all. Hackers and cyber criminals steal millions of records and identities, according to the consumer advocacy nonprofit Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.

    Stay safer online by following these practices:

    *Assume you’ve already been compromised.Whether it’s your baby monitor, your Smart TV, the webcam on your laptop, or apps you installed on your smartphone or tablet, your antivirus is not enough protection. It’s time to take their privacy policies, and the permissions you grant them, much more seriously.

    *Change your passwords.All of them. Now. And do it as frequently as you can tolerate. Also, if you don’t want to change it often, then use any unique characters you can think of, such as a dollar sign ($) or exclamation mark (!), or replace an “oh” with a “zero” (0). This goes a long way in preventing attacks against your password.

    *Turn off wireless and geolocation services.Protect your smartphones and tablets by turning off WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC and GPS, except when you need them. That way, if you are at a local coffee shop or in a shopping mall, no one can spy on you using nearby (proximity) hacking attacks, and they can’t track where you were and where you are going on your GPS.

    *Assume most of your apps are creepware.This is malware that spies on you and your online behavior. Do you really need them? Delete all of the apps you aren’t using too often.

    Source: Gary S. Miliefsky is CEO of SnoopWall and the inventor of SnoopWall spyware-blocking technology. He is a founding member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Quit Bugging Me

    WELL-BEING

    Image of insect repellant.

    As you enjoy the great outdoors, you may not see a bear, but you might encounter biting and stinging critters such as ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects.

    Bring along your own make-at-home first aid kit that includes assorted bandages and basic medicines such as a 1 percent hydrocortisone anti-itch cream, suggests Dr. Janyce Sanford, an ER doctor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

    Use insect repellant with DEET. Include tweezers to remove ticks (the best way is to pull straight up in an easy motion). And if anyone is sensitive to bee or wasp stings, carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) when camping or hiking.

    Find out who in your party knows CPR before you might need it. Carry emergency supplies of food and light, and make sure you practice common sense.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Stop The Spending Cycle

    WELL-BEING

    Image of colorful shopping bags.

    Going overboard on one shopping trip, especially around the holidays, does not mean you have a shopping addiction. It’s normal to overdo it once in a while. And, everyone buys things that aren’t truly needed at times.

    But, if you think you or a loved one might have a shopping addiction, there is help. Often times, a shopping addiction is the result of another health issue like depression. Talk with your doctor about your feelings and symptoms. Antidepressants or other medications may be helpful.

    Or, you may wish to talk with a counselor about things that are bothering you. Sometimes, emotional burdens or troubles can make you look for happiness in things like shopping. If you are able to deal with those problems, you may not feel the need to shop as much.

    There are also support groups for people with a variety of addictions. Debtors Anonymous can help people who have gone into debt from too much spending.

    Don’t be afraid to seek help. The sooner you can address the problem, the sooner you can get your life back on track.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Unexpected Ways To Be Happy (And Healthy)

    WELL-BEING

    Image of a couple jumping in a puddle while it's raining.

    *It’s easy being green.Make vegetables a central part of your diet. Dark green foods provide essential vitamins and nutrients to your body that protect you from many of life’s worst diseases. The FDA recommends 3 to 5 servings a day for pristine health. This is not as hard to accomplish as it sounds. Examples of one serving include 2 broccoli spears, 3 tablespoons of green beans, or 3 sticks of celery.

    *Brush your teeth.Brushing and flossing your teeth not only prevents tooth decay but gum disease, which has been linked to heart attacks and strokes. Healthy gums are one more way to keep that heart pumping strong.

    *Hear ye, hear ye!Pick up your local newspaper once in a while. There is more information out there than you can imagine. Sift through the bounty of news because when it comes to your health and health care, no one is more responsible than you are. Take time to understand what’s going on in the world.

    *Be a small fry.Order smaller portions. Even the small fries at fast food drive-throughs.

    *Give yourself a break.Not only are vacations an important part of maintaining your sanity, but there are many other positives about getting away. Studies  have shown that employees come back  to work post-vacation more creative and more productive.

    *Scrub a dub dub.The easiest way to avoid infectious diseases-a common cold, the flu-is by washing your hands often.

    *Then lend a hand.A study at Vanderbilt University found that volunteer work was good for both mental and physical health. People of all ages who volunteered were happier and had better physical health and less depression. Think about something you like to do in your spare time and find a match atwww.volunteermatch.org.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • 4 “S”S For Smooth Skin

    WELL-BEING

    Young female with a jar of lotion.

    Winter is hard on your skin. Dry indoor air, frequent washing and cold outside air can make skin itchy and painful. Your skin is the largest organ in your body and an important barrier. Protect it!

    1.  Stay safe with germs: Don’t skip handwashing because your hands are dry. You could end up sick or may spread germs to others. Instead, keep hand cream in your purse, pocket or desk. Apply the cream after you wash your hands.

    2.  Short showers: A long, hot shower strips skin of its protective oils. Keep showers and baths short and not too hot.

    3.  Slather moisturizer: After bathing, apply a rich cream or ointment before skin is fully dry. Petroleum jelly is a low-cost and effective choice.

    4.  Skip harsh soaps: Many products contain drying detergents. These can leave skin feeling irritated and dry. Look for products that don’t contain alcohol or fragrances.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • A Diet For Lifetime Health

    Mature Health: Over Age 50

    Image rich in B vitamins.

    Studies show that some older adults are deficient in vitamins B6, B12, and folate (a B vitamin). To guard against vitamin deficiencies, plan a diet that includes food sources of these nutrients.

    *  Lean meats, chicken, organ meats and fish, are high in B6.

    *  Milk, eggs, and lean meats are excellent sources of B12.

    *  Asparagus, brussels sprouts, and almost all green, leafy vegetables are high in folate. Other sources are cantaloupe, orange juice, and fortified grain products.

    *  Citrus fruits, tomatoes, cantaloupe, strawberries, green pepper, and broccoli are rich in vitamin C.

    It is also important to get adequate protein and calcium daily. Low-fat dairy products are rich sources of calcium. Two servings a day of 2 to 3 ounces of meat, chicken, or fish provide the protein you need. Other sources of protein include cooked dried beans, peanut butter, milk, and eggs.

    A Year of Health Hints book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • 10 Dental Problems And What To Do About Them

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image of dentist.

    1.Bad breath:For fresh breath, brush twice a day, floss daily, drink plenty of water, see your dentist regularly, and don’t smoke. If bad breath persists, talk to your dentist or doctor.

    2.Tooth decay:When cavities are left untreated, they can get worse and lead to infections and loss of teeth. Get cavities filled quickly to prevent more extensive dental work and serious health problems.

    3.Gum disease:Without treatment, gum disease gets worse and can lead to tooth loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swollen, tender, and red gums, but it often has no signs in the early stages.

    4.Stained teeth:Some medications, foods, and drinks can yellow or discolor teeth. Many dentists offer whitening treatments that can help.

    5.Mouth sores:A salt water rinse can help with canker sores or irritation from braces or other dental appliances. But, if sores last a week or more, your dentist should take a look.

    6.Tooth sensitivity:Special toothpaste or dental procedures, such as crowns, can help relieve sensitivity to hot or cold. Look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of acceptance on products before buying.

    7.Enamel erosion:Acidic foods and drinks can wear away at the tooth’s protective enamel over time. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and discoloration. Drinking water and milk instead of soda can help avoid this problem.

    8.Wisdom teeth:Third molars, or wisdom teeth, often need to be removed during the teen or young adult years. If the jaw doesn’t have enough space for them, they can crowd or damage the other teeth.

    9.Oral cancer:Cancer of the mouth, lips or gums affects about 50,000 Americans every year. Symptoms may include sores, patches, lumps, or pain in the mouth. If you notice any of these signs, contact your dentist or doctor.

    10.Teeth grinding:Teeth grinding can lead to cracks and damage to the teeth enamel. A special guard made by your dentist can help protect your teeth. Beware of mouth guards sold over the counter as they can fit improperly and become a choking hazard when you sleep.

    Even if you don’t have any tooth pain or other symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist every six months. Regular checkups with your dentist can prevent or treat these problems so you can keep a healthy, bright smile for life.

    Sources: American Dental Association, Oral Health Foundation

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Antibiotic Misuse -You Could Be Doing It

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image a various pills.

    Antibiotics that are overused or misused can lead to “superbugs.” These are bacteria that can’t be killed by antibiotics. Some of these bacteria can be deadly if they get in your body. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says this is one of the top health threats in our world today.

    What can you do to prevent antibiotic misuse?

    *  Antibiotics do not treat viruses. Do not ask your doctor for an antibiotic for a viral illness.

    *  Do not take antibiotics unless your doctor prescribes them – and don’t save old antibiotics.

    *  Take your antibiotics exactly as your doctor tells you.

    *  Finish your entire course of antibiotics – even if you feel better.

    *  Do not take someone else’s antibiotics.

    *  Don’t share your antibiotics with others.

    Antibiotics DO NOT cure viruses such as:

    *  Colds

    *  The flu

    *  Most sore throats

    *  Many sinus infections

    *  Many eat infections

    *  Ear infections

    Taking an antibiotic for a virus:

    *  DOES NOT PREVENT spreading the virus to others

    *  DOES NOT HELP you feel better

    Illnesses that should be treated with antibiotics include:

    *  Whooping cough (pertussis)

    *  Strep throat

    *  Urinary tract infections

    If we only use antibiotics when needed, we can help stop more superbugs from spreading.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Carbon Monoxide – A Serious, Silent Danger

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image of carbon monoxide detector.

    You may already know the importance of having a smoke detector in your home. But another hazard can be just as dangerous as a fire, and you can’t see it or smell it: carbon monoxide.

    Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a deadly gas that comes from combustion fumes. These fumes are given off by cars and trucks, gas stoves and furnaces, gas water heaters, fireplaces, and generators, to name a few. Hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    Keep CO out of your home

    Fortunately, you can avoid carbon monoxide poisoning with a few precautions:

    *  Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. This purchase is an investment in your family’s safety. Replace the detector every five years.

    *  Have your furnace and any other gas, oil or coal-burning appliances serviced by a professional every year.

    *  Never use a generator inside your home, basement or garage. Keep it more than 20 feet from windows, doors or vents.

    *  Make sure all gas appliances are vented to the outside.

    *  Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year.

    *  Don’t burn charcoal indoors.

    *  Never use a portable gas camp stove or flameless chemical heaters indoors.

    *  Don’t run cars or trucks in a garage that’s attached to your house. If your garage is not attached to the house, be sure the garage door is open any time a car or truck is running inside.

    Signs of CO poisoning

    Because you can’t see or smell carbon monoxide (CO), it’s important to be aware of possible warning signs. A working CO detector will alert you to dangerous levels of CO. But, if you notice these signs, get everyone outside right away and seek emergency medical care:

    *  Headache

    *  Dizziness

    *  Weakness

    *  Upset stomach and/or vomiting

    *  Chest pain

    *  Confusion

    People who are sleeping or who have had too much alcohol to drink may not notice the signs of CO poisoning. They may be killed by CO without ever feeling any signs. This is why it’s crucial to have a working CO detector in your home. Change the batteries in your detector at least twice a year.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine