Spring Health Guide - The Shelley Pioneer
Transcription
Spring Health Guide - The Shelley Pioneer
745-5021 Newborn Care Adult Care Full Family Care Wellness/Sports Physicals • Pediatric Health Care • • • • • • • • • • Fractures/Lacerations • Minor Emergencies • Full X-ray Capabilities • Musculo Skeletal Manipulation Open: Mon–Thu 8am-8pm, Fri 8am-6pm 711 Rigby Lake Drive, Ste. 115 • Rigby, Idaho 83442 Call for an appointment or just come in (walk-ins always welcome) Complete Women’s Care Obstetrics Circumcisions Work Compensation Injuries Minor Surgical Procedures A special supplement to The Jefferson Star and The Shelley Pioneer online at www.jeffersonstarnews.com or www.theshelleypioneer.com 3:00 PM April 10, 2013 Spring Health Guide 3/27/13 Services listed below are provided by our doctors and friendly staff Michael Barbo, PA-C Andrew Brower, PA-C Dr. Tiffany Spaulding, DO Dr. Richard T. Harper, DO Dr. W. David Adams, DO “Modern medicine with old fashioned care” SprHea2013front:Layout 1 Page 1 Spring Health Guide 2 — April 10, 2013 Cold and flu season isn’t over yet By REBEKAH NORTON Post Community Newspapers You may only think of colds and influenza (the flu) as a winter issue, but the cold and flu season can last until May, which means that we aren’t in the clear just yet. During the spring months the strain of influenza A, which is what effects most people in the fall and winter, starts to die out but a strain of influenza B, although not as severe as influenza A, can still be prevalent. Ken Anderson, the epidemiologist at Eastern Idaho Public Health Division, explained that there are usually more cases of influenza B than influenza A during this time of the year. “(Influenza) A is a little more severe (than influenza B) but the symptoms are about the same,” Anderson said. “This year and in the past the vaccines have contained two types of influenza A viruses, for protection from two types of influenza A viruses, and one influenza B strain for protection.” The public should take the same precautions to prevent spreading influenza B as they would with influenza A. This includes washing hands frequently, covering the mouth when coughing and staying home from work or school if you experience the symptoms. Colds also continue to afflict people throughout the spring months. There is a myth that people can get sick if they are exposed to weather that differentiates from warm to cold quickly. However, people cannot get sick just from the weather, especially when it comes to catching a cold. Colds are spread by viruses, and when people get a cold they have usually been infected by someone else. “Obviously you can’t get a cold just from the weather; you have to be around someone who has a cold and then they give it to you,” Anderson said. However, if you do not protect your body from colder weather, then it can weaken your immune system and allow you to get sick. “You don’t want to go out in the cold without a jacket because your body has to work harder to keep warm. That may weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to colds,” Anderson said. “Your body has to work extra hard to keep you warm and it could make your immune system weaker.” Many people say they experience severe colds during the spring and summer months, while this is a definite possibility Anderson warns that it could also be an indicator of spring allergies. “You’re also getting into ‘is it a cold or is it allergies now?’” Anderson said. “Once spring starts coming you get more pollen in the air, flowers blooming and everything else, and you might have that question ‘do I have allergies or do I have a cold?’” Tammy Cox, director of health preparedness, promotion and surveillance division at Eastern Idaho Public Health District, explained that as a child her mother always said she had a summer cold. “My mother always said I had a summer cold continually, well I have asthma now and major allergies; they just weren’t diagnosed,” Cox said. She said to determine whether you have a cold or allergies, evaluate if you get the same cold at the same time every year, and the duration. According to Cox, the common cold will last five to 10 days. If it lasts longer it may be something more. COLD AND FLU SEASON Cystic fibrosis patients enjoy health and longevity thanks to research By SHIRLEY THOMPSON Post Community Newspapers When a healthy Shelley couple welcomed a new baby to their family almost four years ago, they were shocked to hear the pulmonary specialist deliver the news that their baby daughter, Emersyn, had cystic fibrosis. Both nurses, Trevor and Lisal Drollinger understood the condition is a genetic one that happens when both parents carry a gene. Neither of them had suspected they were carriers and their older children had been ell. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetically inherited chronic disease of the mucus and sweat glands. It affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States and some 70,000 people worldwide. The baby spent the first few weeks of her life at Primary Children’s Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah because of a bowel obstruction. That problem was corrected and the little girl continues to visit PCM, the nearest CF center, about every three months for a checkup. Lisal Drollinger said she was warned that their daughter would probably be hospitalized a couple of times a year because of respiratory infections caused by CF. So far, that has not been the case. “She’s never been hospitalized since that initial time when she was a newborn,” she said. In fact, Emersyn has been healthy and energetic thanks to improved treatments. “She swallows pills like a champ and sails through breathing treatments and a compression vest a few times every day. If Emersyn skipped past you at the park, the words ‘chronic’ or ‘fatal genetic disease’ would never enter your mind,” Lisal said. “For the health that Emersyn is now enjoying, we have to thank generous people who donated money towards cystic fibrosis research 20 and more years ago. Those donations have developed the medications and treatments that help Emersyn thrive today. There is only one way to properly thank them and that is to do our part to pay it forward.” The couple plans to do that by participating in a 10.6-mile run at Big Sur, Calif., later this month. It is sponsored by the Boomer Esiason Foundation with hopes of raising a million dollars for CF research. Esiason’s own son was diagnosed with CF at age two. Now a college student, no one is a better example of improvements in cystic fibrosis (CF) research and treatment than Gunnar Esiason, who tries to reassure everyone who has been affected by this disease that CF isn't the end of the world, if they don't want it to be. "I believe that we are experiencing something of a medical miracle now in cystic fibrosis research," said Boomer Esiason. "I fully expect Gunnar to outlive me." Donations can be received at a website: www.firstgiving. com/teamboomer/2013-big-sur The Drollingers have already raised over $2,500 and hope to add to that total before the event in Big Sur. Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 3 Take steps now to prevent diabetes in the future (EIPHD) — Most women with gestational diabetes know that taking steps to manage the disease during pregnancy is critical for the health of both mother and child. What many women don’t realize is that those steps need to continue even after the baby is born. Women who have had gestational diabetes are at increased risk for developing diabetes in the future, and their child is also at increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Eastern Idaho Public Health District has partnered with the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) to share this message. “We want all mothers with a history of gestational diabetes to be aware of their long-term health risks, the health risks faced by their children, and steps they can take to keep themselves and their families healthy,” said Timalee Geisler of Eastern Idaho Public Health District. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and affects about 7 percent of all U.S. preg- nancies, or about 200,000 pregnancies each year. Women who have had gestational diabetes should be re-tested for diabetes six to 12 weeks after the baby is born, and at least every three years after that. “Many women think that if the follow-up test after the baby is born shows no signs of diabetes, they are in the clear, but that's not the case,” said Geisler. “What many of these moms don't know is that they have a 40 to 60 percent chance of developing di- Successfully fend off workplace fatigue (Metro)—Fatigue can prove a formidable foe to anyone. Exercise enthusiasts and couch potatoes alike periodically can suffer from fatigue, which can affect performance at work and one's relationships with friends and family. Fatigue can be temporary or chronic, and while quick fixes like an energy drink might work for a little while, such solutions may only mask fatigue for a brief period before it returns once the stimulant wears off. Many times fending off fatigue involves making some lifestyle changes that can boost your energy over the long haul and make fatigue a distant memory. • Eat breakfast no matter what. According to a study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, a high-fiber, high-carbohydrate breakfast can increase alertness between breakfast and lunch, a period of time during which many professionals begin to feel fatigue settling in. Whole-wheat toast or a bowl of high-fiber cereal can pack an energetic punch that lasts all the way to lunchtime. • Choose high-energy snacks. One of the problems many people have when dealing with fatigue is how they choose to combat their feelings of sluggishness. Eating a candy bar from the office snack machine might seem like the ideal energy booster, but a sugar boost does not last very long. Chances are your feelings of fatigue will return sooner rather than later. • Give yourself a break. Burning the midnight oil might be necessary, but failing to take breaks throughout the day will likely exasperate any feelings of fatigue. That's because taking periodic breaks throughout the workday has been proven to be very effective at combating fatigue. A study conducted at Louisiana State University compared a trio of different work schedules for workers who used a computer. Those who took brief, frequent breaks were better at fighting fatigue and more productive at work than those who did not. A short break of 5 to 10 minutes can be enough to provide an immediate energy boost and fend off feelings of fatigue. • Hit the road, Jack. Another way to effectively fight fatigue is to get walking. A decades-old study conducted by a researcher at California State University, Long Beach, found that walking briskly for 10 minutes provides people with more energy than eating a candy bar. Though the candy bar led to an initial energy boost, that boost died down within an hour, whereas the boost provided by a brisk walk increased energy levels for roughly two hours. Get up and walk around the office or take a brisk walk around the block or the parking lot of your office complex. You'll come back to your desk refreshed and ready to resume your workday. abetes as early as five to 10 years after their baby is born. These women need to know this information and they need to take steps to lower their risk for developing diabetes.” Women with a history of gestational diabetes can do a lot to prevent or delay the risk of developing diabetes. In addition to screening for diabetes, it is important for women to reach and maintain a healthy weight by making healthy food choices and being active for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. These action steps are good for the entire family and help mom and baby manage their risks for developing diabetes. Breastfeeding also helps protect against childhood obesity, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. For mom, breastfeeding can also promote an earlier return to pre-pregnancy weight. Gestational diabetes occurs more frequently among women with a family history of diabetes; overweight and obese women; and Hispanic/Latina, AfricanAmerican, American Indian, Asian, Pacific Islander and Alaska Native women. Women who have had gestational diabetes should be screened regularly for diabetes and pre-diabetes, a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Follow-up screening usually consists of a simple blood test. It is important that women talk to their doctors about their history of gestational diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes should also talk to their obstetricians about earlier screening for gestational diabetes in future pregnancies. Because the children of women who had gestational diabetes are also at increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes, it's a good idea for mothers who had gestational diabetes to tell their child’s pediatrician. To learn more about the steps to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, check out NDEP’s risk tests in English and Spanish. Visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org or call 1-888-693-NDEP (1-8886337); TTY: 1-866-569-1162. Ask for It’s Never Too Early to Prevent Diabetes and a tip sheet for children at risk called Lower Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes, in English or Spanish. Please visit Eastern Idaho Public Health District on the web at www.idaho.gov/phd7. Eckersell Memorial Chapel “Looking to the Future” Funeral planning before the need arises. Brad Youngstrom Glen Bennett The subject of funerals is never easy to discuss. Arranging a funeral in advance can be a worthwhile experience in light of the impact your own death will have on those you love most. We at Eckersell Memorial Chapel know that planning is a part of life. Planning ahead can help you reach goals, ease worries and save money.You’ve done it many, If my death occurred tomorrow… many times over the years. Many adults in our community consider pre-planning and funding final 1. My funeral would be arranged by . expenses a good idea. 2. The money needed to pay for my funeral By pre-planning your final arrangements at Eckersell would come from . Memorial Chapel, you are: 1. Making your wishes known. 3. I would want my funeral to include . 2. Eliminating emotional overspending. 4. I would expect my funeral to cost . 3. Relieving yourself and your family from 5. What I would regret most regarding the future financial responsibility. arrangement of my funeral would be . 4. Giving yourself total peace of mind. 5 Questions YOU Should Ask Yourself... Yes, please provide me information on: Pre-arranged Funeral Plans. Funeral planning is funded through the purchase of whole life insurance. A representative of the funeral home, who is a licensed insurance agent will be available to answer any questions you may have. Name Please print Eckersell Memorial Chapel 101 E Main Rigby, ID • 83442 Address City WORKPLACE FATIQUE Telephone State Zip Best Time to Call 745-6604 Spring Health Guide 4 — April 10, 2013 Sun exposure can do more harm than good By REBEKAH NORTON Post Community Newspapers Now that the weather is heating up, people are more likely to spend time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. While sunshine can help improve our moods, it can also cause a lot of damage to our skin and eyes. Tammy Cox, director of health preparedness, promotion and surveillance division at Eastern Idaho Public Health District warns that while the clouds may be covering the sun, people can still be in danger of ultraviolet (UV) rays which can cause sunburns, skin cancer and premature aging. Cox also explained that people are less likely to use clothing to protect themselves from the sun when spring sets in. “This time of year the spring skiing is fantastic, but the reflection of UV rays on the snow, where people are not wearing heavy coats and are letting their skin be exposed, they can get some really severe burns, which can cause skin cancer as well as premature aging,” Cox said. Anyone who goes outside should try to protect their skin. One way to do this is to use sunscreen. Cox recommends wearing sunscreen that is a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and she suggests women wear make-up with UV protection. Cox suggests checking your sunscreen for expiration dates. Many people save unused sunscreen, but once it expires it doesn’t do much good. “Most sunscreen is good for three years; some (sunscreen) that is more organic expires sooner. Some of the product you bought last year might have been sitting on the self for a year, so be sure to check your protection and expiration date,” Cox said. “If you’re using a natural product, an organic product, make sure you’ve researched it; that it’s proven to protect you from sun rays.” Some sunscreens are waterproof and should be used at pools, lakes or even when someone could be sweating a lot. “Be sure to check children, especially infants because they cannot use sunscreen until they are six months of age.” — Tammy Cox EIPHD Sunscreens that are waterproof should say how long it should last before you need to reapply. Usually waterproof sunscreen lasts 40 to 90 minutes according to Cox. “People who go out to the swimming pools and Rigby Lake, or farmers, or people who are gardening, if they’re sweating a lot, they need to wear that waterproof protection. They think that if they apply once they’re ok, but you need to apply at least every two hours,” Cox said. Babies under six months cannot use sunscreen according to Cox. If infants are outside, she suggests using clothing and shade to protect them. “Be sure to check children, especially infants because they cannot use sunscreen until they are six months of age,” Cox said. “Make sure they are under the shade when they’re in the stroller or when you’ve got them playing out in the yard that they are in the shade and that they have protective clothing on.” Protective clothing is an important part of protection for adults as well as children. Clothing made from cotton or canvas can act as protection from UV rays. Long sleeves and pants will also provide more coverage. “Remember that the lighter summer fabrics that we use can actually let UV rays in. They might not cause sunburn but they can cause skin cancer and premature aging,” Cox said. “The lighter gauzy type fabrics and those with the eyelet type let the sun in even though you might not see the effects right away as a sunburn.” Protective measures should also be taken to prevent sun damage to the eyes. According to Cox, cataracts can develop from a lack of eye protection. “It used to be that it was normal for people, especially farmers working out in the field, to have cataracts removed when they get into their 60s or 70s because they were out in the sun,” Cox said. “The majority of the products that are sold in the United States do have protection in the sunglasses, so wear them. It does prevent cataracts later in life.” Cox also emphasized not to use tanning beds. Tanning beds are one of the biggest contributors to skin cancer. “Remember any time you get a ‘healthy tan’ that you’re basically baking your body and that increases your risk of skin cancer,” Cox said. DON’T OVER EXPOSE SKIN TO SUN Flu Shots Now Available at Broulim’s Pharmacy • • • • • • • • Skilled Nurses Home Health Aides Personal Care and PCS Services All Therapies (Physical, Speech & Occupational) & Medical Social Work Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and All Other Insurances Longest Standing Home Health Agency in Eastern Idaho (1983 to Present) Provide Care in Bonneville, Jefferson, Madison, Fremont & Bingham Counties “From Blackfoot to St. Anthony” 24-hour Answering Service Neil Hurley Rigby Pharmacist Jennifer Horton Rigby Pharmacist Tim Allen Shelley Pharmacist Dr. Nathan Kohler • Dr. Kristan Sparks 357-5733 169 S Emerson in Shelley Parkway Eyecare 320 S Woodruff in Idaho Falls 524-4552 Jason Watts Rigby Pharmacist Blaine Wilding Shelley Pharmacist Convenient Drive-thru Window Drop-off/Pick-up Have your prescription called in and come pick it up! 150 N. State • Rigby 745-0267 Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat. 9am-5pm 570 S. State • Shelley 357-0473 Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat. 9am-5pm Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 5 ‘Silent killer’ undiagnosed in many Americans tion and over-the-counter drugs, use of alcohol and tobacco, sodium intake and Post Community Newspapers obesity. The single greatest control a person Many Americans may be living with can exert to prevent the disease is to sima condition that may kill them, and they ply live a healthy lifestyle, Spaulding exdon’t even know it. The condition, left plained. “Even a 10 percent weight loss will undetected, can cause heart attacks, heart affect blood pressure,” Spaulding said. failure, stroke and kidney disease. She said eating plenty of vegetables High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects as many as 50 million Americans, and fruits can lower blood pressure. Abstaining from smoking and alcohol but many of those affected by the disease don’t know they have it because there are will help blood pressure as well. Spauldfew symptoms at first. Later, when the ing said that one glass of wine may help blood pressure has gone up significantly, thin the blood, but at the cost of damagsome seemingly harmless symptoms ing kidneys. Monitoring one’s salt, or sodium, inmanifest, like headaches, nosebleeds and take is another way to keep the pressure blurry vision. down. Spaulding exTiffany Spaulding, plained that sodium has D.O., of Upper Valley effects on osmotic presMedicine in Rigby exsure, or in other words, plained that what makes salt draws water out of the hypertension a ‘silent cells and into the bloodkiller’ is that many who stream, increasing the suffer from the disease pressure. aren’t receiving treatCommon over-thement. counter and prescription “It’s under-diagnosed drugs, like decongestants, because it is asymptoNSAIDS (like ibuprofen), matic,” Spaulding said. birth control pills and “They don’t feel bad.” types of steroids, can also The causes for high raise blood pressure, blood pressure are nuSpaulding explained. merous and include: SPAULDING Spaulding said that family history, prescripBy CHARLIE VANLEUVEN BLOOD PRESSURE TESTING those over the age of 25 should be tested for high blood pressure, but most cases of hypertension develop in those aged 50 to 55. She said that those with the condition can easily control their blood pressure with one or two prescriptions. Exercising outside of the box (Metro) — Exercise is an essential element of a healthy lifestyle. When coupled with a healthy diet, exercise puts men and women on a path toward optimal health while reducing risk for a host of ailments, some of which can be deadly. But many people find they simply don't have the time to exercise regularly. Commitments to career and family can be demanding and time-consuming, and exercise is often a casualty of a hectic schedule. Though getting to the gym every day or even making use of exercise equipment at home on a daily basis may not be feasible, that doesn't mean people still can't find ways to incorporate a little exercise into their daily routines. The following are a few simple ways to fit more exercise into your day no matter how busy you may be. • Avoid the elevator, and attack the stairs. The elevator may be inviting, but it's also somewhat of an enabler. Instead of taking the elevator up to your office each day, take the stairs, and take them with more gusto than you're used to. Rather than taking one step at a time, take the stairs two by two, lifting your legs high as you scale each pair of steps. This helps build your leg muscles and makes the daily climb up the staircase a little more strenuous. • Turn TV time into treadmill time. Watching a little television at night is how many people relax and unwind, but it can be a great time to squeeze in some daily exercise as well. Opinions as to what's the best time of day to exercise TAKING STAIRS vary, and no definitive study exists to suggest one time of day is better than another. People who like to relax with a little television time at night should make the most of that time by hitting the treadmill, elliptical machine or exercise bike instead of just plopping down on the couch. Add a television to your home's exercise room or purchase a gym membership where the cardiovascular machines are connected to televisions. You will still get to enjoy your favorite shows while simultaneously getting the benefit of exercise. • Say "bon voyage" to the conference room. Professionals who spend lots of time in meetings can add a simple twist that incorporates exercise into a typical business meeting. Rather than conducting the meeting in a conference room, propose a walking meeting when possible. A walking meeting is the same as a standard business meeting, but it's conducted on foot outside of the office. Walking meetings can provide some much-needed energy for you and your fellow staff members, who may appreciate the chance to get out from behind their desks and stretch their legs while still getting work done. Take your smartphones or tablets along to jot down important ideas, just like you would in a more traditional meeting. And make the most of your walk by leaving time for some light stretching before and after the meeting. Chances are you will return to your desk reenergized and glad you found a way to get some exercise despite of a busy schedule. • Park far away when shopping. It's tempting and almost human nature to hunt for the parking spot closest to the door when shopping at the mall or even the grocery store. But for those who want to include more exercise in their daily routines, parking far away from the entrance to your favorite store is a great way to incorporate more walking into your life. Walking is a simple yet effective cardiovascular exercise, one that the Mayo Clinic notes can lower your blood pressure and manage your weight while lowering your low-density lipoprotein, which is commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol. In fact, research has indicated that regular, brisk walking can be just as effective at lowering a person's risk of heart attack as more vigorous exercise, including jogging. When parking far away from the entrance, just make sure you park in a well-lit area where others can easily see or hear you. Many adults find they simply don't have the time to commit to routine exercise. But there are several simple ways to incorporate exercise into your existing routine without taking time from your already busy day. Dr. Bryan Cook Dr. Mark Denney We would like to Welcome Glade Pearson to the practices of Dr. Bryan Cook and Dr. Mark Denney. Mr. Pearson has 41 years of experience as an optician, Mr. Pearson is American Board of Opticians certified & was a Fellow of the National Board of Opticians. 153 1/2 East Main • Rigby Next to Broulim’s 208.745.6444 1340 S. Ammon Road 208.523.3141 Business Cards on a budget 500 single-color TO ORDER NOW CALL 745-8701 OR ONLY $ 00 357-7661 27 (BLACK, BLUE or RED) Spring Health Guide 6 — April 10, 2013 Same-day crowns offer dental patients the best of new technology By SHIRLEY THOMPSON Post Community Newspapers Shelley dentist Steven Nielsen, with about 60 other American dentists, recently attended the world’s largest dental show held in Cologne, Germany. Nielsen was selected to join the CerecDoctors.Com organization as a full-fledged faculty member, something he said was a great honor. In the past he has been a mentor, one of an original group of 50 such dentists who took train- ing to help teach peer dentists in the Cerek technology, which allows dentists to make ceramic crowns in their own offices so that patients could have them in only one office visit. At the show, new software was introduced which will increase the capabilities of the Cerec crown system. Although already available in Europe, the software upgrade won’t be available in the U.S. until June. Following the show, the group toured Southern Germany and visited Sirona, the company that manufactures the Cerec equipment in Bensheim, just north of Heidelberg. The next tour was in Leichtenstein at the Ivoclar plant which manufactures ceramic blocks for the Cerec system as well as teeth for dentures which are shipped all over the world. Near Munich, Germany, the 3MESPE plant manufactures anesthetics and impression materials for dentistry. Nielsen has been using the computer assisted design/milling (CAD/CAM) dentistry technology in his office at River Valley Dental Care for the last four years. His partner, Bryce Hanson, also uses the technology and has the luxury of Nielsen’s mentoring whenever he requests assistance. Nielsen said the technology has taken a remarkable leap forward. “This has been available for about 20 years, but I didn’t think the quality was comparable to the crowns made in a lab,” Nielsen said. “In the last few years, however, the technology has improved. With this new software, I don’t think the lab can do as well as I can do with this milling system.” Just last week, River Valley Dental received its newest upgrade to the system — the Onmicam, a 3-D digital video camera that records the interior of the patient’s mouth in full-color without the use of a powder spray previously required. The recording is transferred to the machine, which mills a perfectly matched crown. Dr. Quinn Mikesell of Cedar Creek Dental in Rigby also uses the Cerek technology to do onevisit crowns. Lori Merritt of Mikesell’s staff said the doctor has been doing the crowns in his office for about two years. “He is very successful in making a wonderful crown,” Merritt said. “His patients say they fit very nicely. They don’t have to wear a temporary crown and they’ve been very happy with them.” Mikesell also offers spa den- tistry, which include chair massage and hand waxing while patients wait. The spa services have been popular, especially among the female patients, Merritt said. Nielsen’s association with Cerek has taken him to Scottsdale, Ariz., Las Vegas, Nev., Dubai and several times to Germany. He provides one-on-one training to southeastern Idaho dentists who purchase the equipment and is available online to assist any of the thousands of dentists doing the procedure with specific questions. As a mentor, his responsibilities included assisting other dentists online, submitting clinical articles for publication in the cerecdoctors.com magazine and assisting at the advanced training hands-on courses at the Scottsdale Center for Dentistry in Scottsdale, Ariz. As a faculty member, he will analyze certain areas of cases and teach same-day crown technology online. Dr. Nielsen is no stranger to teaching situations as he has taught students in the Idaho Dental Education Program at Idaho State University since 1992. He also maintains the status of clinical instructor at Creighton University School of Dentistry, located in Omaha, Neb., and assists in the Idaho Dental Residency program, including training the dental residents in the use of the Cerec technology. DENTAL PROCEEDURE Kids’vitamin deficiency signs (Metro)—A healthy diet is supposed to provide all of the essential vitamins and minerals necessary to sustain a body. But thanks to finicky eating habits and limited choices, many children are not getting the vitamins and minerals they need to grow up healthy. Although many foods are fortified with certain vitamins, they still may not be enough to provide the level of nutrition required for a growing body. Parents may be well informed of a child's needs of vitamin C to boost immune system function, but they may not be as readily informed about other vitamins that are essential to human health. • Vitamin A: Vitamin A promotes a healthy immune system and proper eyesight function. A child lacking in vitamin A may be tired and weak and experience weight loss. Other symptoms include dry eyes, skin scaling and respiratory infections. • Vitamin B6: Hyperactivity and impulsiveness are often blamed on an underlying medical condition, such as ADHD. But such conditions may be the result of a deficiency in vitamin B6. • Vitamin B12: Nervous system function is largely governed by proper levels of vitamin B12. Children who do not receive HEALTHY DIET enough vitamin B12 may experience weakness, insomnia, edema, and abdominal pain. • Vitamin D: Vitamin D is called the "sunshine vitamin" because it is produced in the body after exposure to the sun. Children who spend many hours indoors or wearing thick layers of sunscreen may not get enough vitamin D. Irritability, muscle cramps and even late teething could be tied to vitamin D deficiency. Parents should consult with pediatricians about the proper levels of vitamins children need. Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 7 Can diet soda cause weight gain? (Metro)—For decades, people have turned to diet soft drinks as a healthier alternative to regular soft drinks. However, consuming diet soda on a regular basis may have some serious health ramifications, including weight gain. It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that diet sodas may be causing people to gain weight, particularly because these sodas are commonly consumed by people who are trying to lose weight. However, artificial sweeteners found in some diet sodas may increase a person's risk of obesity. It's not entirely what you are eating that can cause weight gain but what the body thinks it is eating (or drinking) that plays a role. There are two factors at play with regard to the artificial sweetener conundrum. First, The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio has researched the potential link between obesity and artificial sweeteners. Researchers have found that something in the chemical structure of these sweeteners alters the way the brain processes the neurotransmitter serotonin. In addition to helping with sleep, mood and other functions in the body, serotonin helps tell the body when it is full. When natural foods and sugars are consumed, serotonin signals to the brain to turn off your body's appetite. However, artificial sweeteners may prolong the release of serotonin, and your appetite remains in full force long after it should have abated. Another component of artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame, is that these chemicals can trick the body into thinking it has, in fact, consumed sugar. That triggers the pancreas to produce the insulin needed to regulate blood-glucose levels. It also causes the body to store the glucose as fat. This can lead to low blood sugar, which may cause you to eat a sugary treat in response. Having diet soda or eating a sugarless item once in a while won't create any long-term effects. But repeatedly relying on artificial sweeteners could affect appetite and change blood sugar levels for good. These aren't the only consequences to diet soda and other beverages. Drinking diet soda regularly may affect cardiovascular health. According to the American Heart Association, research presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference found people who drink diet soda every day have a 61 percent higher risk of vascular events than those who reported no soda consumption. Regular soda isn't a better alternative. It can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues as well as an increased risk for diabetes. A 2011 review published in the journal Circulation stated that a positive association has been shown between sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption and weight gain in both children and adults. Nutritionists and doctors have advised that instead of adding artificial sweeteners to DIET SODA CAN HAVE SERIOUS RAMIFICATIONS water and other beverages, flavor them with lemon or lime juice. Instead of drinking diet soda, opt for unsweetened tea or plain water. Although diet soda may seem a likely option to help curb calories and prevent weight gain, Robert L. Ellis, D.D.S. • ly Year up k c e h C • A AN L P T A GRE TO A ! E L I M S GREAT 745-0400 143 1/2 EAST MAIN ST., RIGBY (Look for the Happy Tooth Guy – South of Broulim’s) I N S U R A N C E AC C E P T E D • C R E D I T C A R D S AC C E P T E D such beverages may actually be having an adverse effect on a person's weight. Spring Health Guide 8 — April 10, 2013 How to reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s disease (Metro)—Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people across the globe. In the United States alone, the Alzheimer's Association estimates one in eight older men and women has the disease, which is the sixthleading cause of death in the country. Few families have not been affected by Alzheimer's disease, and many relatives of those with the disease fully understand the role family history can play. Research into the disease is ongoing, and it's already yielded valuable information that may help reduce the prevalence of this devastating disease in the years to come. One byproduct of researchers' efforts is the discovery that it may be possible to prevent or delay the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease through the implementation of a combination of healthy lifestyle choices. The following are a few healthy habits that may help men and women reduce their risk for Alzheimer's. •Exercise regularly. A study conducted by Scottish researchers and published in the journal Neurology in 2012 touted exercise as the most effective way for adults to protect their brains from Alzheimer's disease. Researchers examined roughly 700 70-year-old participants, all of whom were born in 1936, who were asked to report their levels of physical activity. Each participant then received an MRI at age 73. Those tests revealed that the participants who were more physically active showed less brain shrinkage and fewer white matter lesions, both of which are indicators of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the Alzheimer's Research & Prevention Foundation reports that physical exercise reduces a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's by 50 percent and can even slow further deterioration in those who have already begun to develop the cognitive problems associated with Alzheimer's. Researchers continue to study the relationship between physical activity and the development of Alzheimer's diseases, but the evidence is mounting that regular exercise, regardless of a person's age, is a great way to reduce risk for Alzheimer's. •Eat healthy. What you put into your body may also reduce your risk for Alzheimer's disease. The brain operates at its best when it is fueled with a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein. A hearthealthy diet is also brainhealthy, and researchers have found a potential link between heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. Researcher Larry Sparks of the Sun Health Research Institute in Arizona and formerly of the Kentucky medical examiner's office studied brain tissues with a goal of finding early signs of Alzheimer's disease. He discovered that those who had the telltale plaques of Alzheimer's disease also had heart disease, suggest- ing heart disease may be a forerunner of brain diseases like Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Association feels this link between the two will only grow stronger in the years to come, suggesting that a heart-healthy diet that reduces a person's risk of heart disease may also reduce the risk for Alzheimer's down the road. More information on a heart-healthy diet is available at EXERCISE REGULARLY www.heart.org. • Stimulate yourself mentally. Mental stimulation can help the brain stay sharp, and men and women who find ways to stay mentally stimulated can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer's. Embrace activities that require communication and interaction with others, and find time for additional tasks that can stimulate your brain. These may include studying a foreign language, reading, trying your hand at mentally stimulating puzzles such as crosswords or Sudoku, and other activities that emphasize organization. Such activities are essentially workouts for your brain that can help it stay sharp as you age. • Remain socially active. Staying socially active into older adulthood is important for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that research has indicated the brain functions better when men and women are not isolated from others. Memory and cognition are stronger when people remain socially active and engaged in their society, so retirees should look for ways to revive their social lives as a means to protecting their brains from the onset of Alzheimer's or dementia. Alzheimer's disease remains an enigma in many ways. But ongoing research continues to show that men and women can take measures to actively prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and improve their quality of life as a result. Shane Permann Ty Swensen Hours: Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-4 Idaho Drug began business on Main Street of Rigby as a Pharmacy and Soda Fountain in 1947. We are the only locally accredited pharmacy able to provide Medicare covered medical equipment such as diabetic testing supplies, canes, walkers, etc. New spring & summer items in our gift shop! We specialize in the following: Come visit our gift shop: • Filling Bubble packs • All major insurance plans accepted • Medical supplies and equipment • Wheel chair and crutch rentals • Unique Gifts • “Made in Idaho” merchandise • Cards • Scented Candles Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 9 Provid ding The Following Following Services: Serrvvices: Proudly Providing t 8PVOEE$BSF t8PVOE$BSF t1IZTJDBM5IFSBQZ t)PTQJUBMJTU1SPHSBN t1BJO.BOBHFNFOU t0ODPMPHZ t0ODPMPHZ t4VSHJDBM t4MFFQ-BC t*NBHJOH t-BC t -BC t&OEPTDPQZ t#JSUIJOH$FOUFS t/*$6 Find us on: A Physician Owned Hospital www.mountainviewhospital.org www.mountainviewh hospital.org $PSPOBEP4USFFUt*EBIP'BMMT*%t $PSPOBE EP4USFFUt*EBIP'BMMT*%t Spring Health Guide 10 — April 10, 2013 Keeping kids active once the school year ends (Metro)—In many ways, today's kids have busier schedules than any previous generation of youngsters. Many extracurricular activities, including sports, require a nearly yearround commitment, and the dual-income household has landed many kids in afterschool programs where kids tend to their schoolwork or engage in various activities that keep them from resting on their laurels. But those busy schedules get a lot less hectic when the school year ends. Once school is out, kids used to a full schedule might find themselves with lots of time on their hands. Though it's good for kids to squeeze in some rest and relaxation during their summer break, it's also important for kids to stay active so they don't develop poor habits as the summer goes on. In addition, the American Psychological Association notes that kids who are physically active are more capable of coping with stress and tend to have higher self-esteem than kids who do not include physical activity as part of their regular routines. The following are a few suggestions for parents looking for ways to keep their kids active throughout the summer while still allowing them to recharge their batteries after a long school year. • Plan an active vacation. Summer is when many families go on vacation, so why not choose a vacation that involves more than napping poolside? Though it's still good to leave some time for relaxation, find a locale where you can embrace activities like snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, or other adventures that get you and your youngsters off the poolside chaise and out exploring. Such a trip might inspire kids to embrace an activity more fully, getting them off the couch not only while they're on vacation but also when they return home for the rest of summer. • Teach kids to garden. Gardening might be seen as a peaceful and relaxing hobby, but it still requires a lot of elbow grease and hard work that pays physical dividends. A garden must be planted, hoed, weeded, and watered, and gardening gets kids out of the house to enjoy the great outdoors. When growing a vegetable garden, kids might embrace the chance to be directly involved in the foods that will eventually end up on their dinner tables. Parents can embrace this as an opportunity to teach the value of eating locallyproduced foods and the positive impact such behavior has on the environment. • Go swimming. Few adults who work in offices haven't looked out their windows on a sunny summer day and thought how nice it would be to be spending that afternoon making a few laps in a lake, at the beach or in a pool. Kids have the same daydreams during the summer, so take a day off every so often and take the kids for an afternoon of swimming. Swimming is a great activity that exercises the entire body, including the shoulders, back, legs, hips, and abdominals. In addition, swimming helps kids and adults alike maintain a healthy weight while also improving their cardiovascular health. It's hard for some STAYING ACTIVE people to find a place to swim once the warm weather departs, so take advantage of the summer weather and go swimming as often as possible while the kids are not in school. • Limit how much time kids spend watching television, playing video games or surfing the Internet. Many of today's kids are as tech savvy as they are busy. But it's important that kids don't spend too much time online or on the couch watching television or playing video games. Such activities are largely sedentary, and they can set a bad precedent for the months ahead, even when the school year begins once again. Parents should limit how much time their youngsters spend in front of the television or the computer during summer vacation, keeping track and turning the TV or computer off if they suspect kids are spending too much time staring at the screen instead of being active. Kids might not love it when you turn their video games off or minimize their access to social media, but explain the limitations at the onset of summer and let kids know you expect them to be physically active even if it is summer vacation. Good health starts with the skin (Metro) — Your skin is the largest organ of your body. It protects you from harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections. It also helps your body sense the outside world and regulate your body temperature. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that billions of dollars are spent each year on skin care products, and billions more are spent on medical costs to treat damaged skin. From powders and lotions to sunscreens and firming creams, caring for your skin is a necessity throughout your lifetime. From infancy to adulthood, proper skin care can help ensure healthy skin throughout your life. As we grow older, our bodies produce less moisture, drying out the skin, which then begins to lose its elasticity and its ability to protect the rest of the body. For many people, looking after the skin is not only a question of aesthetics, but it is also essential for one’s health and well-being. Conditions that stress, clog or inflame your skin can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, burning, and itching. Allergies, irritants, genetic makeup, certain diseases, and immune system disorders can cause dermatitis, hives and other skin conditions. Columbia Healing Cream has been developed by dermatologists to help people of all ages naturally maintain the proper balance of moisture in their skin. Blending nature’s best emollients with the latest technology, Columbia Healing Cream comforts and softens the skin while helping to alleviate cracking, dryness and itching. The unique combination of botanicals, vitamins and minerals in this product protect and soothe the skin, while stimulating the growth of new cells to bring back younger looking skin. Manufactured in the United States by a 140-plus year old skin care products company, Columbia Healing Cream is suitable for treating the most sensitive skin, including that of people who suffer from dia- HOW’S YOUR EALTH? H Insurance that is! REXBURG SURGERY SHOW OFF YOUR LEGS AGAIN GET RID OF VARICOSE VEINS THE NO-SURGERY, NO-SCAR WAY •Eliminate bulging veins at the source •Uses safe & comfortable EVLT® laser energy •45 Minute in-office procedure •Shows immediate improvement •No general anesthesia or hospitalization betes, eczema or psoriasis. If you want to make your skin smile, simply use Columbia Healing Cream as directed. More information on this product and Columbia Antiseptic Powder is available by writing to: The F.C. Sturtevant Company, P.O. Box 607, Bronxville, N.Y. 10708, or calling toll free (888)-871-5661. Log onto the Web at: www.fcsturtevant.com, www.columbiahealingcream.com, or on Facebook. FINALLY, AN EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR CHRONIC ACID REFLUX. If you have heartburn more than twice a week you may have acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). A new procedure, called TIF, is the first incision-less procedure of its kind that relieves the affects of GERD, including heartburn, without needing a lifetime of taking pills. Get back to living, call to setup a consultation today. Depend on me for sound advice on all your health insurance needs. Ask me about Health Insurance The State Farm Way. Mike Bezzant 205 E. Fremont Ave., Rigby (208) 745-6605 THE LATEST SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY ALLOWS US TO ENHANCE YOUR LIFE WHILE STAYING CLOSE TO HOME. Call today for more information or for your initial consultation 208-656-8442 www.rexburgsurgery.com Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. 381 E. 4th N. Suite 100 Rexburg Dr. Hansen State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois Call for details on coverage, costs, restrictions and renewability. Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 11 Healthy ways to speed up your metabolism (Metro) — Dieters are often aware of metabolism and its effect on an individual's weight. Metabolism is a process that serves a host of important functions, including converting food and drink into energy and using energy to construct certain components of cells. For the perpetual dieter, metabolism can be a natural-born enemy, a process that simply isn't fast enough for dieters to lose weight. Even more frustrating, a person's metabolism can hinge on genetics and gender. People may inherit a speedy or slow metabolism. Gender plays a large role considering men have a tendency to burn more calories than women, even while resting. Those who inherited a speedy metabolism are often the people who can seemingly eat whatever they choose without gaining a pound. But gaining a faster metabolism isn't just for men or those who inherited a speedier metabolism at birth. In fact, there are several healthy ways to speed up metabolism. • Pack on some muscle. People with more muscle tend to have a higher resting metabolic rate. That's because muscle burns more calories than fat. According to the American Council on Exercise, each pound of fat burns just two calories per day, while various estimates suggest each pound of muscle burns between 35 to 50 calories per day. Those figures might seem insignificant, but they add up over time and someone with significant muscle can burn considerably more calories than someone without. Employ resistance training to build muscle, as such training activates muscles all over the body, increasing your daily metabolic rate as a result. • Emphasize intensity. Daily exercise is great, but high-intensity daily exercise will prove more effective at speeding up your metabolism. Low- or moderate-intensity workouts don't pack the same punch as high-intensity workouts, which produce a longer increase in resting metabolic rate. Sign up for a Zumba(R) or spin class at your gym, both of which are the kind of high-intensity cardiovascular workout that can speed up your metabolism. • Embrace grazing. Grazing is a dietary philosophy in which individuals eat five to six smaller meals every three to four hours instead of three large meals each day. Eating this way helps keep your metabolism going, and the result is you will burn more calories throughout the day than you would if you ate a more traditional diet. Of course, what you eat when grazing is important, too. Choose low-fat, high-nutrient foods, and snack on fruits and vegetables instead of more popular snacks like potato chips. Grazing on unhealthy foods won't lead to weight loss and may even cause weight gain. • Eat more protein. Protein can serve many purposes for people trying to lose weight. Protein has a tendency to make you feel full when you eat it, reducing the likelihood that you will overeat. In addition, the body burns more calories when digesting protein than it does while digesting fats or carbohydrates. Turkey, low-fat dairy products, fish, nuts and beans are great sources of protein, which should not be all you eat but can be used as a periodic replacement for other foods that may slow down your metabolism. • Stay hydrated. Your metabolism will likely slow down if you allow yourself to get dehydrated. When the body does not have enough water, several of its functions, including its ability to burn calories, slow down. Muscles are roughly 70 percent water, so if they are not fully hydrated they cannot generate energy, affecting your metabolism. In addition, the body is not as effective at using fat as fuel when it is dehydrated, further slowing your metabolism. Staying hydrated is as easy as drinking enough water throughout the day. How much water an individual needs to stay hydrated is open to debate among medical professionals, but one study found that adults who drink eight or more glasses of water per day burned more calories than those who drank four glasses of water per day. Many people feel they were either gifted at birth with a fast metabolism or doomed from the start with a slow metabolism. But an individual's metabolism is not set in stone, and there are a host of healthy ways men and women can speed up their metabolism. SPEED UP YOUR METABOLISM Dr. Dwight R. Hansen 225 W. Main • Rigby, Idaho 83442 Telephone (208) 745-8773 SPECIALIZING IN: • Back and Neck Pain • Post Surgical Rehab • Sport & Orthopedic Injuries • Fitness and Wellness • Work-related injuries CALL NOW FOR AN APPOINTMENT EXPANDED FACILITY with Pool Therapy Mobley Physical Therapy, PC Tracy E. Mobley, MS PT • Carl Johnson, MPT 151 East Main • Rigby, ID 745-8332 R O L L Ideal for… • Covering banquet tables • Wrapping/Packing • Arts/Crafts • Use as drop cloth • endless other uses E N D S Stop by The Jefferson Star We have a variety of sizes on hand. 134 West Main, Rigby Prices starting at or The Shelley Pioneer 154 East Center, Shelley and choose the roll size that suits your need. 1 $ 50 Providing premier eye care for 49 years in Rigby. Glasses - Contacts - Routine checkups - Cataract Macular Degeneration - Glaucoma screenings Specializing in Low Vision aids and devices. Low Vision Doctor for the Idaho Commission For the Blind and Visually Impaired. Spring Health Guide 12 — April 10, 2013 Make your favorite recipes healthier (Metro)—A healthy diet plays a significant role in a person's overall health. Without a healthy diet, men and women are more susceptible to disease and other potentially harmful ailments. But when many people think of a healthy diet, a lack of flavor is often one of the first things to come to mind. That's a common misconception, as a diet that's healthy and full of nutrients can simultaneously be flavorful. In fact, it's easy to enjoy many of your favorite dishes in a way that makes them much healthier. Oftentimes, a few minor alterations to a recipe is all it takes to turn the dish from high-risk to healthy. • Trim the fat. No one wants to eat fat, but fat isn't entirely bad for you. Fat can help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, and replacing fat with something like carbohydrates decreases how much these valuable vitamins are absorbed. In addition, dietary fat releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel full, reducing the likelihood that you will overeat. Those are just a few of the benefits of dietary fat, which is an essential element of a healthy diet. But overconsumption of dietary fat can be dangerous, and many people simply need to trim some fat from their diets. One way to do that is to reduce how much butter, shortening or oil you use when cooking. For some recipes, you may be able to cut suggested portions of such ingredients by half without replacing them; however, for others, especially those for baked goods, these items may have to be replaced. In the case of the latter, find a suggested alternative to high-fat items, and only use half of the highfat item listed in the original recipe. Chances are you won't taste the difference, but your body will be better for it. • Substitute healthier fare. Substituting items is another way to turn a favorite dish into a healthier dish without altering the flavor dramatically, if at all. For example, instead of cooking with enriched pasta, purchase whole-wheat or whole-grain pastas, which are higher in fiber and lower in calories. If a recipe calls for using milk, choose fat-free milk instead of whole milk. Doing so reduces your fat intake by nearly 8 grams per cup. Recipes can even be made healthier by simply cutting back on the main dish and adding more vegetables. Instead of using the recommended amount of meat or chicken, scale back and make up for it with additional vegetables, which reduces your caloric and fat intake while adding more vitamins and minerals to your diet. • Change your methods. Certain cooking techniques are healthier than others. Frying foods or cooking with fat, oil or salt is not the healthiest way to HEALTHY RECIPES prepare a meal. Some of your favorite dishes that call for frying or cooking in oil can be just as flavorful if you opt for healthier methods like braising, broiling, grilling, or steaming. When recipes call for basting foods in oil or drippings, forgo these unhealthy options and baste foods in vegetable juice or fat-free broth instead. What you use to cook can also be healthy or unhealthy. Nonstick cookware won't require you to use oil or butter to keep foods from sticking to the pan. This reduces the amount of fat and calories you will consume, and you likely won't notice a difference with regards to flavor. Men and women who enjoy food and cooking their own meals can take several steps to make those meals healthier without sacrificing flavor. Quinn Mikesell, D.M.D. Experience Spa Dentistry and Cerec same-day crown technology 711 Rigby Lake Drive • Ste. 102 • Rigby, Idaho 745-8788 New Patients Welcome Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 13 Treating ear infections in children younger than one year (Metro) — Few illnesses plague young children as frequently as ear infections. In fact, research suggests at least half of all children age one or younger will experience an ear infection. Antibiotics have long been the standard method of treatment for ear infections. However, new guidelines have emerged and a pediatrician may not be so quick to use amoxicillin as a remedy. What is an ear infection? An ear infection is an abnormality in the appearance or function of the ear. It may be the result of bacteria, viruses or injury to the ear. An ear infection is known as "otitis media," and there are three primary kinds of ear infections that may occur. Acute otitis media is an infection of the middle ear with symptoms that include pain, redness of the eardrum, pus in the ear, and fever. Otitis media with effusion is a buildup of fluid in the middle ear without infection. This type of ear infection is more common than acute otitis media and is often a side effect of viral upper respiratory infections or allergies. Otitis externa is an infection of the outer ear canal and is commonly referred to as "swimmer's ear." What causes ear infections? A bacteria or a virus is the culprit behind many ear infections. Bacteria or viruses can cause inflammation in the ear, which may result in pain, redness and the buildup of fluid. The ear canal also can become blocked by fluid that forms as a result of a cold or an allergic reaction. The eustachian tube is the part of the ear that connects from the inside of the ear to the back of the throat. When clogged, this tube cannot drain properly, much in the way the nasal passages can become congested. In some instances, the fluid becomes infected. Sometimes it is the fluid pushing on the eardrum that causes pain. Symptoms of an ear infection Adults may be able to voice their symptoms when an ear infection is present, but children are more apt to offer physical clues. If a child is exhibiting any of the following behaviors, an ear infection may be to blame: • Difficulty sleeping • Irritability • Pulling or tugging at ears • Loss of balance • Fever • Presence of fluid draining from the ear • Unresponsiveness to quiet sounds Treatment for ear infections In early 2013, the American Academy of Pediatrics revised its previous guidelines for treating acute otitis media, the common middle-ear infection. The changes include asking doctors to be more stringent in diagnosing a cause of the ear infection in order to cut down on the unnecessary use of antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics can result in antibioticresistant bacteria. In children ages 6 months to 12 years, it is the opinion of the AAP that children without severe symptoms should be observed for a few days, as viral ear infections can clear up on their own. Children should be given immediate antibiotics if they have a severe ear infection, defined as a fever of 102.2 F or higher, with or without significant pain. A ruptured ear drum with drainage or an infection in both ears in kids age two or younger also warrants the use of an antibiotic. The guidelines also confirm that amoxicillin should be the antibiotic of choice unless the child is allergic to penicillin or if the child has been treated with amoxicillin during the past month. Richard Rosenfeld, a professor and chairman of otolaryngol- Staying healthy in sick season (Metro)—The cold weather brings with it a season of smiles, the first snowfalls and, unfortunately, cold and flu outbreaks. While everyone else is suffering, there are ways you can make it through the season unscathed. It is estimated that a billion people across North America will succumb to the cold virus this year, says Medline. Considering there is no cure for cold and flu viruses, prevention remains a person's best option at fending off cold and flu. There are different precautions to take that can help protect you against getting sick or at least reduce the frequency and severity with which cold and flu strikes. • Wash your hands the right way. Washing your hands frequently remains the single-best way to keep viruses and bacteria that can make you sick from infiltrating the body. Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds can effectively remove any dirt, grime and invisible invaders. • Skip antibacterial products. Because colds and the flu are the result of viruses, which are different in behavior and structure from bacteria, they will not be killed off with the use of antibacterial products. What you may succeed in doing is killing off any beneficial bacteria on your hands as well as creating resistant bacteria that form with over-use of antibiotics and antibacterial products. • Get the flu shot. There is no vaccination to prevent the common cold, but there are immunizations that can help reduce your risk of getting the flu or help minimize its severity. Doctors' offices, clinics and even pharma- cies all offer annual flu shots. • Use sanitizer on items around the house. Surfaces that are frequently touched by all members of the household should be wiped down with a disinfectant product. A bleach-andwater solution is an effective sanitizer. Surfaces to sanitize include phones, doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, computer keyboards, faucets, toys, and countertops. • Avoid sick people. KidsHealth.org states that flu viruses and colds can travel up to 12 feet (from a sneeze or cough). Steer clear of anyone exhibiting symptoms, especially someone who is frequently sneezing or coughing. Parents should keep children home from school if they are sick. Do so until symptoms subside so as not to infect others. • Use a sanitizer product. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that when hand-washing is not readily available, a good way to kill germs is to use an alcohol-based sanitizer lotion. While not as effective as washing hands in warm, soapy water, sanitizing products can be used in a pinch while you're on the go. • Cough into your sleeve. Rather than coughing or sneezing into your hands, do so into the crook of your elbow since this area rarely touches anything else. • Skip the buffet lunch. Buffet-style offerings are convenient and offer variety, but they are also a breeding ground for illnesses. These foods may have been sneezed or coughed on. Also, the serving spoons have been touched by dozens of people. ogy at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., who co-authored the AAP recommendations, advises that an ear infection should improve in 72 hours. If the symptoms get worse or don't improve, antibiotics should be used. Parents can take some preventive measures to minimize ear infections in children. Breast-feeding infants for at least four months reduces overall episodes of ear infections. Preventing exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke also can reduce ear infections during infancy. Children who get recurrent ear infections may benefit from the insertion of ear tubes to drain fluid. Any methods that reduce viral infections also may cut down on the frequency of ear infections. Antibiotic safety • Children and adults who are prescribed antibiotics should take the medicine as prescribed for the full duration, not just until symptoms wane. Otherwise the infection may not be fully eradicated and symptoms may recur. • Do not share antibiotics as doctors usually prescribe a certain type that is most effective against the bacteria causing the infection. • Antibiotics tend to work rapidly, so if symptoms do not ease up in a short period of time, talk to your doctor. • Many antibiotics, especially liquid varieties, should be stored in the refrigerator. • Some antibiotics need to be taken with food, others on an empty stomach. Read all prescribing information carefully. Spring Health Guide 14 — April 10, 2013 Keep healthy food on hand for snacking (Metro) — When hunger pangs arrive and you head to the kitchen to prepare a meal or a snack, it helps to have healthy foods on hand so that you can fill up without filling out your clothes. Sugary or fattening foods may be popular snacks, but consuming too many of these items can cause health implications, including weight gain, that could last for years. Although health experts tout certain "super foods" that are essential for the body, there are run-of-the-mill foods that are far less glamorous but pack their own healthy punch and are much more readily available. When making your next shopping list, be sure to add these items. • Rice: Starchy rice is a versatile food that can accompany many meals. Whether served as a side dish or on its own or with some broth in a soup, rice can help satisfy hunger and keep the stomach feeling full. Brown rice is a healthier option than processed white rice. Rice is also gentle on the stomach for people who need to consume bland diets due to any gastrointestinal ailments. Another advantage to rice is that it stores well and will not go bad, so you can stock up. • Low-fat yogurt: Yogurt can be enjoyed as a snack any time of the day. Rich in calcium and healthy probiotics, yogurt can even replace certain ingredients in recipes, including creams and sour cream. As a dessert, yogurt is a better option than more fattening puddings or ice cream. Thicker varieties of yogurt can help you feel fuller, longer. • Unsalted nuts: An excellent protein-rich snack, nuts can be the go-to food when you need a nutritional pick-me-up. Although they tend to be high in fat, much of the fat content is unsaturated fat that is rich in omega acids necessary for cardiovascular and neurological health. Nuts can be sprinkled on salads or served with cheeses to make meals more satisfying. • Canned or dried fruits: Fruits that are packed in natural fruit juices are just as healthy as fresh produce. However, they can be stored for longer periods of time without spoiling. Many people do not consume the recommended servings of fruit, and having canned or individually packaged fruit cups available makes it easy to include fruit in your diet. Fruits are full of required vitamins and are a natural fiber source to keep digestion in check. Dried fruits can be added to nuts to make a healthy trail mix. Raisins, for example, are a great source of iron, which helps the blood transport oxygen. • Beans and legumes: These foods are high in protein as well as fiber, generally in a low-calo- rie package. Beans and legumes can replace meats as a protein source in many meals when the goal is to reduce caloric and fat intake. Beans can be used to thicken sauces or make foods more hearty, helping to stretch them further. • Vegetables: Whether fresh or frozen, vegetables are a musthave staple. Vegetables are ripe with vitamins and minerals, and pack a lot of punch with very low calories and fat. People need not worry about filling up on vegetables, and they're one of the snacks that can be eaten in abundance without worry of racking up a lot of calories. Aim to have half of your plate filled with vegetables at every meal, which will keep you full. • Lean protein sources: Fish, poultry and lean cuts of meat are often the basis for meals. They can be kept and enjoyed in moderation. Rich cuts of pork and beef may be flavorful but are high in saturated fats. • Lemons or lemon juice: Rather than seasoning foods with salt and butter, lemon juice is a tasty flavoring that lends itself well to many types of foods. Lemons and limes contain limonene, furocoumarins and vitamin C, all of which help reduce your risk of cancer. • Cranberry juice: In addition to being an antioxidant, 100 percent cranberry juice helps fight bladder infections by preventing harmful bacteria from growing. The juice can be consumed on its own or diluted to add a splash of flavor to water. • Figs: Many people underestimate the nutritional value of figs. Figs can be eaten fresh off of the tree. Think about adding mashed figs to batters for healthier breads or even desserts. A good source of potassium and fiber, figs also contain vitamin B6, which produces mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention. There are many healthy and versatile foods that can be stored in the pantry without spoiling. They make for quick snacks and help keep you feeling fuller, longer. HEALTHY SNACK FOODS Dry Eye Specialist Your Get the whole collection of the State Series Quarters Do you suffer from Dry Eye? Symptoms include: • Scratchy or dry eyes • Burning • Watery eyes - especially when outdoors • Fluctuating vision • Red eyes including the District of Columbia and five Territorial Quarters all displayed in this handsome folding collector map. Dr. Hurley can help you! Call today to schedule your Dry Eye evaluation. This can be billed to medical insurance! Dr. Jason N. Hurley, O.D. 8 years serving Rigby providing full-service eyecare with a friendly and professional staff. 527 Rigby Lake Dr., Suite C Rigby, ID 83442 208-745-0181 Call the Jefferson Star — 745-8701 or the Shelley Pioneer — 357-7661 to place your order today! $ only 49 95 we accept Spring Health Guide April 10, 2013 — 15 Spring Stir-Fry FAMILY FEATURES Spring Stir-Fry Pasta Primavera W Yield: 4 servings 1 half stick (4 tablespoons) Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt, divided 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound whole jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed 3 carrots, peeled and chopped 1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed off, cut into 2-inch pieces 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen green peas Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 lemon 1/4 cup finely minced fresh parsley Fresh Parmesan shavings, as desired Heat 2 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir to cook for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, or until opaque. Remove shrimp and garlic to a plate. Do not clean skillet. Add rest of the butter and melt. Add carrots and asparagus in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender but still slightly crisp. Scoot carrots and asparagus to edges of pan, then add peas to middle of pan. Cook for one to two minutes, stirring gently, until peas are heated through and tender. Add shrimp back to pan, stir to toss, then add salt and pepper. Squeeze juice of one lemon all over contents of pan and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Sprinkle parsley over top. Serve stir fry immediately over cooked rice, or on its own. Top with Parmesan shavings and squeeze on extra lemon juice if needed. Yield: 6 servings For the pasta 1 half stick (4 tablespoons) Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt, divided 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally 1 cup bite-sized broccoli pieces 2 medium zucchini, sliced diagonally 1 medium summer squash, sliced diagonally 4 ounces white mushrooms, washed and sliced 1/2 large onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup frozen peas 1 cup diced cooked ham 8 whole basil leaves, chopped (set aside extra chopped basil, for garnish) 1 pound pasta (penne, fusilli or linguini), cooked according to package directions and drained For the sauce 1/4 cup dry white wine (up to 1/2 cup), optional (replace with additional broth if not using) 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth 3/4 cup heavy cream 3/4 cup half-and-half Black pepper to taste 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (set aside extra grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish) Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add carrots and cook for 1 minute, then add broccoli and cook for an additional minute. Remove from skillet and set aside. Add 1 additional tablespoon butter to skillet and allow it to melt. Add zucchini, squash, and mushrooms, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until vegetables are starting to soften. Remove from skillet and add to other vegetables. Set aside. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Add onions and garlic to skillet and cook for 2 minutes, or until starting to turn translucent. Pour in wine and chicken broth and stir, scraping bottom of pan to loosen flavorful bits. Cook liquid for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to reduce by about half. Stir in cream and half-and-half, then add Parmesan and allow cheese to melt. Add black pepper to taste. Let sauce thicken for about 2 to 3 minutes. Add all vegetables to sauce, then add frozen peas, diced ham and chopped basil. Stir to combine everything. If sauce needs a little more liquid, splash in a small amount of broth as needed. Place cooked pasta in a large serving bowl. Pour all contents of skillet over pasta and toss to combine. Sprinkle with extra chopped basil and serve with extra Parmesan. hether you grow your own vegetables or shop the produce aisle in your grocery store, garden-fresh vegetables add beautiful color and great taste to the table. Ree Drummond, known to her fans as The Pioneer Woman, is raising four active kids on a working cattle ranch in Oklahoma and has written two best-selling cookbooks. She says she loves to find new ways to put more delicious veggies on her family’s table. “I get so excited about my garden — maybe a little too excited!” Drummond says. “Sometimes I literally have vegetables coming out my ears. Fortunately, I’ve got four kids who love to pick just about anything I plant, so everything gets harvested on time — if not a little earlier.” “When I bring those veggies into my kitchen, nothing shows off their fresh flavor like a little bit of butter — or, even better, Land Ree Drummond O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. I love this product because it comes in pre-measured, one-quarter cup sticks of butter. That makes prep easier, because so many of my recipes, like my Pasta Primavera, call for just 2 to 4 tablespoons of butter.” If you don’t have a vegetable garden or can’t always get fresh produce, don’t despair. Flash-frozen vegetables retain much of their flavor and nutrient value. Thaw vegetables before using them in these recipes, or just heat them through and toss with high-quality butter for an easy side dish. When they taste this good, kids will be saying, “More veggies, please!” Ree Drummond has partnered with Land O’Lakes and blogs at www.ThePioneerWoman.com. Find more garden-fresh recipes at www.LandOLakes.com. Margherita Pasta Pasta Primavera Yield: 4 servings 6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) uncooked dried penne pasta 1 half stick (4 tablespoons) Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh garlic 2 medium (2 cups) tomatoes, coarsely chopped 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; return to saucepan. Keep warm. Meanwhile, melt butter in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds or until softened. Add tomatoes and basil; continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until heated through (1 to 2 minutes). Add pasta and Parmesan cheese, stir until combined. Serve immediately. Oven-Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms Margherita Pasta Yield: 4 servings 1 pound asparagus, trimmed 1 (8-ounce) package mushrooms, quartered 1/4 cup red onion, sliced 3 large cloves garlic, sliced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 half stick (4 tablespoons) Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt, melted 1 teaspoon lemon juice Heat oven to 425°F. Arrange asparagus, mushrooms and onions on aluminum foil-lined 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan. Sprinkle with garlic, salt and pepper. Drizzle melted butter and lemon juice over top. Bake 15 to 20 minutes until asparagus are tender and lightly browned. Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt was awarded a 2013 Better Homes and Gardens Best New Product Award in the butter category. 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