healthy valley rgv april 2013
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Healthy Valley April 2013TRANSCRIPT
healthy valley
PediatriciantiPs for selecting a
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO VIEWONLINE MAGAZINE
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issUe 54 April 2013
Excellence in Eye Care is
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[email protected] | 801 N. Main, Ste. 318, McAllen, TX 78501 PH 956.525.0240 | www.HealthyMagazine.com
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HEALTHY BODY, MIND & SOUL
FITNES & BEAUTY
HEALTHY KIDS
10. LETTHEKIDSRUN!12. GAMEON!14. TIPSFORSELECTINGAPEDIATRICIAN
16. KEEPSAKES18. THESECRETSOFLONGEVITY20. TATTOOREMOVAL24. COPINGWITHCHEMOBRAIN30. THESKINNYONWHYOCCUPATIONAL THERAPYISSOHELPFUL!32. EXCELLENCEINEYECAREIS DR.SHAH’SSPECIALTY34. STEMCELLTHERAPYBRINGINGHEALING ANDWELLBEINGTOANEWLEVEL
36. STRESSANDORIENTALMEDICINE38. BODYGUARDFITNESS
April 2013ISSUE 54
HealthyMagazine|801N.MainSt.#318|McAllen,TX78501|PH956.525.0240|www.HealthyMagazine.com
healthy valley®
PublisherMauricioPortillo
Editor in ChiefClaudiaPortilloDelValle
Marketing DirectorArnaldoDelValle
Copy EditorLoraIncardona
Website DirectorHealthyMedia
Graphic DesignHealthyMedia
PhotographyFabiolaPeñalozawww.fabiolapenaloza.com
Contributing WritersBillieMarek,M.D.RodrigoRodriguez,M.D.BenjaminFano,M.D.ConsueloCamarilloDeG.Lic.AC,M.D.RituGoelM.D.MaryMargaretGutierez,M.D.LoraIncardona,M.Ed.CharlotteLibovCelinaBenavides-RiveraSteveStanleyFrankieRuizRubelShelly
Social Media DirectorFarideDelValle
SpringForward
Drawinginspirationfromsomeofthemostimportantpeopleinmylife,Ihaveadoptedthephilosophythat“Nomatterwhatyouseewithyoureyes,it’swhatyoudon’tsee,yetbelieve,thatshouldkeepyougoing.”
I amafirmbeliever in theoldadage that states, “Each seasonbrings forthitsownfruit.”PerhapsthisiswhyIlovespring.Itgivesusasenseofrenewalandoffersnewopportunitiesnotonlytobeginnewprojectsbuttocontinueworkingtowardstheoneswealreadyhaveinprogress.
Iunderstandthatsometimesitseemssohardtotakeabreakinourdailyplay-by-play lives tostopandsmell the roses,but takeagood lookaround– it’sspringand theflowersare just starting tobloom.Andwhile itmaynot lastthroughouttheyear,thememoriesofwhatwehaveseenshouldbeenoughtoremindusthatnomattertheseasonwearegoingthrough,springwillalwayscomebackbloomingthemostbeautifulbluebonnetsandliliesasaresultofwhatwehaveplanted.
Thismonth,webringtoyouophthalmologistDr.PankajG.Shah,a leader inhisfieldandrighthereintheRioGrandeValley.Don’tmissreadingabouthisdreamsandwhattheymeanforhispatients.
Wehaveenhancedourmagazinebybeingmorecreativeandthoroughwhilepackingourpageswithinformationyoucanacton,alongwithgreatinterviewswithourlocalphysiciansandhealthandlifestylecoaches.Sitdown,relaxandenjoyeverybitofitaswekeepworkingtohelpyouachievealifestylethatwillchangeandenhanceyourlifepermanently.
healthymagazine is a freemonthly publication. Allcontents are protected by copyright and may notbe reproduced without written consent from thepublisher.Thematerial in thismagazine is intendedtobeofgeneralinformationaluseandisnotintendedto constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis,or recommended treatments. healthy magazineand its contributors accept no responsibility forinaccuracies,andtheadvertiserissolelyresponsibleforadcontentandholdspublisherharmlessfromanyerror.PrintedinMexico
[email protected] N. Main, Ste. 318 McAllen, TX 78501 PH 956.525.0240www.HealthyMagazine.com
Editor in ChiefClaudia Portillo
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10. LETTHEKIDSRUN!
12. GAMEON!
14. TIPSFORSELECTINGAPEDIATRICIAN
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10 April 2013
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By Mary Margaret Gutierrez, MD
One of the most important decisions you will make as aparentiswhowillbeyourchild’spediatrician.Sheistheonewhowillbetheretohelpyoucareforyourillchild,promotewellness and advise on prevention, safety issues and themanyparenting concerns/issues that comewith the ever-changingstagesfromnewborntoyoungadult.
A pediatrician is a physician who has completed medicalschool and a three-year pediatrics residency. They arespeciallytrainedincaringforinfants,children,teenagersandyoungadults.ApediatricianwhoiscertifiedbytheAmericanBoardofPediatricsafter1988mustpassastringentexamevery 10 years. In addition to keeping up with the latestadvancesinpediatriccare,shemustparticipateinprojectstoimproveherpractice.Toverifythatapediatricianisboardcertified,checktheAmericanBoardofPediatricswebsiteatabp.org.
Tips for Selecting a Pediatrician
RECOMMENDATIONS: Chances are that your obstetrician has metmanyofthepediatriciansintownsoisinafavorableplacetosuggestapediatricianorwillhavealistforyou.Othersourcesareyourfamily,friends,coworkersandhealthcareworkers,especiallynurseryandlaborand delivery nurses. Before you narrow your list to 2-3 pediatricianswhoyouwouldliketoscheduleaprenatalvisitwith,spendsometimethinkingaboutwhatisimportanttoyou.
SCHEDULEAPRENATALORPRE-ADOPTIONVISIT:Agoodtimetomeetwithaprospectivepediatricianisatthebeginningofthe3rdtrimester.Ifyouareadopting,checkwithyouradoptionagencyregardingtheirtimelines.Theyalsomayhavealistofpediatricianswhohaveaspecialinterestincaringforinfantsandchildrenwhohavebeenadopted.
Meetingapediatricianbeforeyourbabyisborngivesthepediatricianachancetoreviewanymedicalproblemsduringyourpregnancy.Ifyouareadopting,shecanbepreparedtohandlemedicalissuesthatmaybespecifictoadomesticorinternationaladoption.Likewise,asaparent,youcanobtainadviceregardingmedicaldecisionsyouwillbemakingduring the first few days of your baby’s life. Even though therewillmostlikelybeadesignatednurserypediatricianforthehospital,yourpediatricianwillbeincommunicationwithhimtoallowforaseamlesstransitiontohomeandfollow-upcare.
HOLDANINTERVIEW:Whatsortofrelationshipwould likewithyourpediatrician?Doyoupreferadoctorwhoisinformalandeasygoingoronewhoismoreformalandbusinesslike?Doyouwantadoctorwhogives the impression of having all the answers and tells you exactlywhat todo,oronewho iswilling toadmit, “Idon’t know,but Iwillfindout.”Whenpossible,wouldyoulikethedoctortopresenttoyouan arrayof choices fromwhich youwill choose? Even in thebestofdoctor-patientrelationshipstheremaybepointsofdifference;doctor-patient relationshipsaremost likely to succeed ifbothpartiesagreeonamajorityofmajorissues.Itisuptoyoutodecidewhatthesemaybe.Someexamplesareantibioticuse, immunizations,breastfeeding,circumcision,vegetariandietsandattachmentparenting.
Otherinformationyouwillobtainfromtheinterviewareofficehours,howtelephonecalls/emergenciesarehandled,sickvisitappointments,coverage arrangements and availability of house calls. There is anationwidemovement, especially amongprimary care physicians, tostructuretheirpracticestoservealimitednumberofpatientssotheycan provide highly individualized additional services. Some of thetermsused are “membershipmedicine,” “direct caremedicine” and“conciergemedicine.”Arrangementsforcareatthesepracticesvary,so checkwith the individual doctor to seewhat is provided for themembershipfee.
MAKINGYOURCHOICE: In theend, yourdecisionwillmost likelybemadeonhowyoufeelaboutaparticularpediatricianandherpractice.
There is no such thing as a perfect doctor but if there seems to bemore discord than harmony, try talking things out with the doctor.Youmayfindthatthereisamisunderstandingthatcanbeaddressedtothesatisfactionofall.Ifnot,itmaybetimetomoveontoanotherpediatrician and, hopefully, have a pediatrician that is best for yourfamily.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dr. Gutierrez is the owner of Liberty Pediatrics in McAllen, TX...and yes, she does make house calls. See our ad in Healthy Valley Magazine.
healthy kids
Meet Mary Margaret Gutierrez, MD
[email protected] West Pecan Boulevard, McAllen, TX
Call 956.821.6695
Imagine. . . the freedom to choosewhat’s best for your child
~ Coming this spring ~
www.LibertyPediatricsTx.comPrenatal visits encouraged • Most major insurance plans accepted
• Direct access to me – no office waits
• Optional home visits
• Evenings and weekends available
• Innovative approach to comprehensive pediatric care
• Parenting support – individual, groups and classes
• Communicate by phone, text, email, Skype
• Harvard trained, Board Certified
HV
12 April 2013
As I look at my calendar it shocks me that we are already in April. It is hard to believe that we have once again reached this inevitable season of state testing.
Many students get anxious at the thought of having to prove themselves on paper, especially when they lack confidence in their knowledge. When expectations are high and the student is feeling pressure from parents or teachers, it’s no wonder that test anxiety rears its ugly head. The good news is that there are many strategies to defeat that menacing monster.
To learn more about Lora the Study Coach. visit http://lorathestudycoach.com
Game On!By Lora Incardona
Takinganexamisalotlikeanathleticpracticesession.Imaginethatyouareatbasketballpractice.Whatisthefirstthingthecoachdoes,dividetheteamintwoandhaveyouplayascrimmagegame?Ofcoursenot.Yourcoachhasyouwarmuptogetyourbloodmovingandyour muscles warm before the more demanding andrigorous portion of practice. By the time practice ishalfthrough,youhardlynoticehowhardyourbody isworking,thatyou’resweatingprofuselyandthatyourheartispounding,butyoufeelgood.Aspracticenearsitsend,youfeelgoodaboutwhatyou’veaccomplishedand, althoughyourbodyhasdemandedmuchof you,you do not really feel the strain because you startedgradually and worked your way up to maximumpotential.Takinganexamisactuallyjustlikethat.
Asyouentertheroomandtakeyourseat,remembertostartoffeasy.Trytorelaxasyoulistentoyourteacher’sinstructions, and take a deep breath when you aretold,“Youmaynowbegin.”Keepinmindthatthetestwritersdon’texpectyoutoknoweverysingleanswer.Theywritethetestsothattheaveragestudentaswellasthesuperbrightstudentwillbechallenged,sodon’tgetdiscouraged.
Justasanathletedoesn’t jumpright intoagameandplayhishardestwithoutfirstwarmingup,youshouldn’tjump right into answering every question right away.When you begin your exam, read each questionwiththoughtandansweronlythequestionsthatyouaresureyou know the answer to. Leave the tougher ones forlater.Asyoumakeyourwaythroughtheexam,you’llseethatyourbrainiswarmingupandthinkingbetter.Afteryou’veansweredallofthe‘easy’questions,gobacktothebeginningofthetestandre-readthequestionsyouskipped.You’llbesurprisedathowmanymoreyoucananswernowthatyou’vewarmedup.Eventually,youwillhavetoattempteverysinglequestion,eventhosethatyoufeelcluelessabout,butdoyourbest.
Thedaybeforeyourexam,besuretoeathealthyfoods,drinkwaterandgotobedontime.Aninthemorning,beforeheadingouttotakeyourtest,drinkwaterandeatahealthybreakfast.Afterall,wouldn’tyoudothesameifyouwereplayingintheNBAchampionship?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Lora Incardona has been a public school teacher since 1993 and holds master degrees in bilingual education and educational leadership. Her book, Lora the Study Coach’s Easy Study Manual, education articles and blog can be found at http://LoraTheStudyCoach.com.
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14 April 2013
healthy kids
By Frankie Ruiz
Asagreaternumberofadultscontinuetoventureintomoreactivelifestyles where fitness activities, such as running, are gearedtowardsendurancetraining,theappealforkidsrunningwilldevelopfurther. In fact, runninghas reachednewheights inpopularity forkidsofallages,sonowthetimeisrighttoassesswhetherornotweshouldpushourkidstorunlongdistance.Herearesomeanswerstoquestionsthatwillhelpyoudecideif longdistancerunningisrightforyourchild.
WHYSHOULDKIDSRUN?As it is for adults, the list of benefitsof longdistance running forkidsisnearlyinfinite.Iprefertoencouragekidstorunbyexplainingonemainbenefit to theparentsandeventually to thechild– thatrunning is the fundamental base for just about every other sporttheywillencounter. If Icanhavekidsunderstandthatbyproperlydeveloping their aerobic capacity and that they can feel betterthroughconsistenttraining,theywillexcelatothersportsandwewillwinoverthatmisconceptionthatrunningisapunishment.Atayoungage,runningfastforashortperiodoftimeorinseveralburstsisextremelynatural.Whatisn’teasyforthemtounderstandisthattheycansustainrunninglongeriftheytrainthemselvestodoso.Theotherbenefitisanextensionoftheabovepoint,whichisthatthereisnobetterwaytoeducateourchildrenthattheycanbemastersofwhattheywanttoachieve.
Thesportof runningtrulyallowschildrentounderstandthat theycontrolhowgoodtheycanbe.Thisisnotaneasyconcepttograspiftheyplayateamsportwherethecoachdeterminestheirplayingtime,oftenonthebasisofsize,physicalmaturity levelandnaturalabilities.Running,iftaughtandtrainedproperly,canbeanincrediblyusefultoolforchildrenthatwillyieldtremendouslong-termbenefitsintheirlives.
HOWMUCHRUNNINGISTOOMUCHFORKIDS?Ifindthatkidsshouldbetheonestodetermineandcommunicateiftheyfeelthattheyhavebeenrunningortraining“toomuch.”Kidsoftennearthatstateoffeelingliketheyarerunningortrainingtoomuchwhentheyhavetobepushedexcessivelybytheirparentsorcoach.Iprefertoletthechildhavethatupper-handandbelievethatthey should have thepower and confidence to tell their coachorparentwhentheyhavehadtoomuch.
One definite sign of kids overdoing it with running is when theyenteraboredomstage.Aparentorcoachcanseesignsofthechildnearingthatpointwhenexcusesstartcomingtotheforefrontandtherunninglookslikesomethingthattheyaresluggishlydoingandtheradiatingexcitementhasdiminished.Onegreatwaytojudgeif
achildisoverdoingitistogoadayortwowithoutbringinguptheactivitytoseeifheorsheasksaboutdoingitwithoutareminderfromdad,momoracoach.
I suggest combating the approach of boredom bymakingsure that thechild isn’tdoingall the runningalone. Groups and teams are the best way to avoidreachingthatpoint.The introductionofsomeof thepopularmud-runsandobstacleracesisalsoawaytostaveofftheboredomanddoingtoomuch.Theeventshavepausesduringtherunthatallowkidstorecoveralittleandnottoruntocompleteexhaustion.Iamalsoa
firmbelieverthatgivingafewgoalracesisagoodwaytokeepkidsfromoverdoingit inawaythat ismeaningless.A
parentorcoachshouldgivekidsrestaftertheraceseasonpassestohelpthemrechargetheirbatteries.
Theotherfactortoconsideristhe“trainingage”ofthechildorteen.Isthischildnewtoathleticsorhasheorsheparticipated inothersports.Thiswillhelpdeterminehowmuchcanbehandledwithoutcausinginjury.
DOINEEDTOBUYMYCHILDRUNNINGSHOES?Absolutely!Oneimportantfactortoaddresswhenworryingaboutoverdoingitwithtoomuchrunningisthatofinjuryprevention,andoneofthebetterwaystoavoidaninjuryistoensurethatyourchildisfittedproperlyforrunningshoesatanearbyspecialtyrunningstore.The last reasonyouwant your child to turnaway from running isbecauseofimproperfootwear;therefore,maketherelativelysmallinvestmenttoproperlyoutfityourchild.
ISMYCHILDAGIFTEDRUNNER?Idobelievethatcertainkidshavephysicalattributesthatallowthemtobebetter runners than theirpeers; however, I feel that kids ingeneralhavenaturalenduranceandwithproper trainingtheycandevelopthatendurancefurthertohelp leveltheplayingfield.Theproblem arises when kids are inactive throughout their youngestyearsanddon’tquiteunderstandtheconceptofbuildingendurance.These kidswill eventually be the adults that erroneously give theexcuse that theydon’t run longdistancebecause theirbodiesarebuiltforshortdistance.
SHOULDIENTERMYCHILDINALOCALRACE?If you want to get your child into official races, you shouldconsiderhowpreparedheorshe is relativetotheracedistance. Iwouldsuggeststartingoffwithoneofthefunrunsthatareoftenattachedtoalargerhometown5kroadraceasthesetendtobelesscompetitiveandshorterdistances.Fromthatpointyoucansearchyourarea’sracecalendarlistingstoidentifya5Kracethatseemsfunandispositionedinthecalendarduringthecoolertimeoftheyear,whichallowsyoutoensurethatyourchild isreadytocomplete init.Maybeconsiderrunningthatracewithyourchild.Ialsosuggestthat youdoyourbest toencourageyour child tobe ready to runthe entire race so to avoid the habit ofwalking, unless it’s reallynecessary.
One lastpoint about racing.Keep the amountof races to a smallnumber,maybe2or3peryear.Ioftenseeparentswhotaketheirchildtotoomanyeventsandbythetimethechildisinhighschooltheydon’t have anappetite for joining the cross countryor trackteam.Make running apart of your child’s life as heor shegrowsolderbutdon’tmakeracingawayoflifeatsuchayoungage.
16. KEEPSAKES
18. THESECRETSOFLONGEVITY
20. TATTOOREMOVAL
24. COPINGWITHCHEMOBRAIN
30. THESKINNYONWHYOCCUPATIONALTHERAPYISSOHELPFUL!
32. EXCELLENCEINEYECAREISDR.SHAH’SSPECIALTY
34. STEMCELLTHERAPYBRINGINGHEALING
ANDWELLBEINGTOANEWLEVEL
BodyMind &Soul
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16 April 2013
Life ultimately reduces to those we have loved and who have loved us. And all of us want to feel good about what we’ve done with the time God gave us to spend on Planet Earth.
healthy sOUl
The lateMackCraigusedtotell thestoryofamanheknewnamedHarry.Harrywasanelderlygentlemanwhentheygotacquainted.HisfamilyhademigratedtotheUnitedStatesfromRussiaintheearlytwentiethcenturytoescapethepersecutionbeingmetedouttotheJewishpopulationthere.
HarryenjoyedconversationandhecametotrustMack.Onedayheaskedafavor.“Ineedsomebodytogothroughmythingswithme,”hesaid.Theirpathscrossedwithsomefrequencyandtherequestwasmadeagainandagain.
HavingputHarryoffaslongashecouldaboutataskhedidn’t really want to perform, Dr. Craig finally agreedtohelp.SohewenttoHarry’splacewithasecretfear
thathemightbeinforhoursofsortingthroughcountlesskeepsakesaccumulatedovermorethaneightdecadesofliving.Sohewas takenabackwhenHarrybroughtouta
singleshoebox.
Intheboxwerethefollowingitems:apictureofHarry’smother,hisformerwife’sdeathcertificate,twopicturepostcardswrittento Harry by a cousin over 30 years before and two yellowed
newspaper clippings about projects that involvedwork done byHarry’s buildingdemolitioncompany.
Nogoldorpreciousstones.Nostockcertificates.Noawardcertificatesordiplomas.JustsimplemementosoflifeasHarryhadexperiencedit.
Sowhatareyouputtinginyourshoebox?Oh,maybeyoudon’tactuallyhaveone.Perhaps you use a desk drawer or scrapbook. Ormaybe you’re just filing somethingsawayinyourheart.Butyouknowwhatgoesinthere.Thoughnooneelsewouldregardthemastreasures,theyarethekeepsakesofyourlife.
AnoldcigarboxthatIgotfrommyDad’sstoreholdsSantalettersfromourchildren,hand-made birthday coupons frommy son, a photo ofmy parents’ grave and arecentnotefrommydaughter.Theyhavenovaluetoanyoneelse,butyoudon’twanttogetmestartedonhowimportanttheyaretome.
Harry’sshoeboxtoldtheessentialfacts.Lifeultimatelyreducestothosewehavelovedandwhohave lovedus.Andallofuswanttofeelgoodaboutwhatwe’vedonewiththetimeGodgivesustospendonPlanetEarth.
It’shardtovaluethingsproperlywhenyou’recaughtup inthehustleandbustleofthedailygrind.Asyougoaboutyourdutiesthisweek,thinkaboutHarry.Lethisstoryremindyouwhatultimatelywillmattermostaboutyourlife.
Try always to let what matters most in a well-lived life matter most to you.
Keepsakes
By Rubel Shelly
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18 April 2013
By Benjamin Fano, M.D.
The secrets oflongeVity
WHY ARE WE SO RELUCTANT NOT ONLY TO BE OUR AGE BUT
TO BE PROUD OF OUR AGE?Inhissearchforpeoplewhoarelivinglonger,DanBuettnerresearchedfour geographic regions, one of which was in a fast pacedmodernsetting:LomaLinda,California,homeofahighconcentrationofSeventhDay Adventists. This group of people has naturally incorporatedphysical activity into their livesbymaintaininggardens they fertilize,weed,hoeandwork.Thesamebenefitcancomefromlivinginahousethatdoesn’thaveeveryelectronicmotorizedconvenience.Everytimeyougetup fromachair tochangeachannel, forexample, youburncalories.Ifyougetoutofyourcarinsteadofusingthedrive-thru,youburncaloriesand if youfindadozenopportunities inyour lifeeverydaytouseyourbodyinsteadofanelectricdevice,that’sallthemoreexerciseyouget.
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ADDING 10 YEARS TO YOUR LIFEAccordingtotheAdventistHealthStudyInitiatedbytheNationalCancerInstitute,therearefivelifestylepracticesthatcanadd10yearstoyourlife.•Vegetarianism•Maintainingahealthyweight•Eatingnutsregularly•Notsmoking•GettingregularexerciseInfact,twoyearsoflifearegainedforeachofthesepractices.
Exerciseismedicineandpeoplewhoexerciseregularlyhavethelowestratesofbreast,colon,prostateandendometrialcancer.Theyalsohavelowerratesofdiabetesandhypertensionandaregenerallyhealthier.
Foreveryhalfhourofexercise,an individualcanexpectto livetwomorehours.Anyactivitythatraisesyourheartrate,requiresdeep breathing (but doesn’t cause you to be out of breath),works up a little sweat and is maintained for at least half anhourdailycanresultinanextratwohoursoflife.Ifyouhaveanyhealthproblems,itisimportanttogetmedicalclearancebeforestartinganyexerciseprogram.
BELIEVEThere is a proven restorative power in believing in God andbelongingtoaspiritualcommunity.Therehavebeenmorethan1,200studiesonreligionandhealing.Two-thirdstothree-fourthshavefoundthatreligiouspatientsarelesslikelytobedepressedoranxiousthanothers,aremore likely tobe inbetterphysicalhealthwithabetterfunctioningimmunesystemandhavelowerbloodpressure.ThisproveswhatJesussaidlongtimeago,“Yourfaithhasmadeyouwell.”(Mark5:34)
RESTWe are an overworked hyper connected society. Thecommunication revolution,whichgot anadditional shot in thearmthepastfewyearswithMySpace,FacebookandTwitter,hascreated an environmentwherewe are endlessly available andpluggedintoaconstantflowofcommunication.
Ourlungsrestforjustamomentbetweeneachbreath.Aftersixdaysofworkweneedrest.Thispracticeisapathwaytofreedomfromthetyrannyofdeadlines,constantcommunicationandourconsumer economywherewe declare that we aremore thanwhatwecanaccomplishorwhatwecanbuy.
EAT WELLTheoptimaldiethasmanyreasonablebenefits,includingalongerlife span, greater quality of health and lower medical costs.Minimizefoodsthatareheavilyprocessedorcontainexcessiveamountsofsugars,saltandfats.Deepgreenandotherdeeplycolored vegetables offer an array of disease-fighting nutrientsandwater-solublevitamins.Color-densefruitscontainimpressiveamountsofplantchemicals,vitaminsandminerals.TheHarvardPhysiciansHealthStudyfoundthatnutintakereducestheriskofsuddenheartattackandtheLomaLindaHealthStudyfoundthatfour tofive servingsofnutsperweek cut the riskof coronaryheartdiseaseinhalf.
AsJonathanSwiftwrote,
“May you live all the days of your life.”
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20 April 2013
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Tattoo RemovalAccordingtoestimates,intheUSA,atleast10in100peoplehavea tattoo and among them almost 50% want to get their tattooremoved. With the advancements made in medical technology,thetattoos,whichwereonceregardedaspermanent,cannowberemovedsuccessfullyusinglasertattooremovaltechniques.
HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORK?Duringatattooremovalsession,aspecializedlaserthatincorporatesQ-switched technology is used to create extremely short pulsesof high-intensity light energy directed towards the tattoo to beremoved. The ink in your tattoo absorbs this laser energy and isshattered into tiny fragments, which are then removed by thescavengercellsofyourimmunesystem.Forremovingyourtattooeffectively,youneedtohaverepeatvisitsthatarespacedatleast4-6weeksapart.
Q-SWITCHED LASERS: A REVOLUTION IN LASER TATTOO REMOVALAccording to theNational InstitutesofHealth,Q-switched lasersare the newer types of lasers that result in minimum scarring.Treatment using Q-switched lasers is usually done after theapplicationofatopicalanesthetic,thoughitalsodependsonthetattoo location and the pain threshold of the patient. DifferenttypesofQ-switchedlasersareavailablethatareusedfortreatingarangeoftattoopigments.
Theapproximateamountoflaserenergytobeusedisdeterminedbeforethetreatmentsessionanddependsonthesizeofthetattoo.
Theareatobetreatediscooledorchilledduringtreatmentusingamedical-gradechillersoastolessenthepaincausedbypassagetheoflaserbeam.Thenatopicalanestheticisappliedtothearea.Duringthetreatmentprocessalaserbeamisdirectedtowardstheinkofthetattoothatisinliquidstate(thelaserbeamisharmlesstoskin).Aftertreatmentitisrecommendedthatthepatientapplytothetreatedareaatopicalantibioticcreamandasunblockwhenoutinsun.
Inthemajorityofcases,thetattoofadesawaygraduallyovera6-to8weeksperiodandyourskinreturnstoitsoriginalcondition.
Thenumberoftreatmentsessionsrequiredwillvaryaccordingtothesizeandcolorofyourtattoo.Treatmentalsovariesaccordingto theageofapatientandthetypeof tattoo(whetherdonebyanamateuroraprofessional).Theremovaltechniquealsovariesaccordingtothepatient’sskincolorandthedepthofthepigmentofthetattoo.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS There are minimum side effects with the Q-switched lasers.However, risk of infection and scarring should be consideredbeforemakingthedecisiontogoforlasertattooremoval.
LASER TATTOO REMOVAL IS SAFEDuetotheuseofnewerQ-switchedlasers,thetattooremovalpro-cesshasbecomequiteeffectiveandsafewithminimumscarring.
By Celina Benavides-Rivera
REGRETS
Getting a tattoo can be a major milestone for some people, but many may come to regret the ink and want to have it removed.
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By D’Arcy Lyness, PhD
April 2013
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24 April 2013
COPING WITH CHEMO BRAIN
McALLEN
Formoreinformationaboutcancerprevention,pleasevisitwww.TexasOncology.comorcall1-888-864-ICAN(4226).
Dr.BillieMarekisamedicaloncologistatTexasOncology–McAllen,1901SouthSecondStreetinMcAllen,Texas.Billie Marek, M.D.
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The condition known as chemo brain – which impactsapproximately 20 percent of cancer survivors – is not new,butnewattention from researchers suggests that itmaybe amisnomer.
For years, many cancer survivors have complained of “brainfogginess,”short-termmemoryandthinkingproblemsthatwerethought to result from chemotherapy. Doctors now say thatchemotherapymaybe justoneofmanycontributingcausesoftheoftentemporarycognitivechangesforsomecancerpatients.
Chemobraincanbecausedorworsenedbyanumberoffactors,such as other cancer treatments, difficulty sleepingor fatigue,hormonal changes, other illnesses, age, depression or stressand emotional pressure. Genetics may also play a role in theoccurrenceofchemobrain.
Thesignsofchemobrainareasvariedasthepeople itaffects.Symptomsincludedifficultywithmemory,concentrating,multi-tasking,focusingandfinishingsentences.Somecancersurvivorswith chemo brain struggle to find words and take longer tocompletetasks.Manyhavetroublerememberingdetailssuchasnames,datesandmajorevents,andmayneedhelpwithdailylife.While the effects of chemobrain typically are not permanent,theycanlingerforsomepeople.
Chemobrainisnotpreventable,butseveraltreatmentsarebeingresearched.Medicationsforotherneurologicalconditions,suchasADHD,canhelptreatthesymptoms.Somedoctorssaythatthe most reliable “treatment” is a natural-remedies approachtocopingwithandtamingsymptoms.Ahealthydiet,exercise,
By Billie Marek, M.D., Texas Oncology–McAllen
andplentyofsleepcanpromotebrainfunctionandrecovery.Forsome patients, “brain exercises,” like puzzles or learning newthings,arehelpful.
In addition, adjustments to daily life can reduce the effects ofsymptoms. The goal is to minimize opportunities for issues toariseandtohaveaplaninplaceincasetheydo.Simplestrategiesinclude:
•Writingoutyourschedulefortheday•Using reminders, such as sticky notes, for ordinary, easy toforgettasks
•Breakinguplargeamountsof informationintosmaller,easiertorememberpieces
•Talking to oneself: whispering each step of a complicatedprocess
•Reviewingdetailsofplannedactivitiesandmeetingsinadvance,suchasnames,datesandtopicsofconversation
•Repeatinginformationoutloudseveraltimes
As with all aspects of cancer care, one of the most importantstepstogettingthroughchemobrainisfindingsupport.Patientsexperiencing chemo brain should reach out to family, friendsandtheirdoctorforhelpandaskforwhateveraccommodationsareneeded.Forexample,thosewhoareoftenconfusedshouldnotbeleftaloneforlong.Somemayfindthattalkingwithothersurvivorsexperiencingchemobrainishelpful.
Withtherightsupport,chemobraincanbeanotherofthemanysurmountablechallengesthatcancerpatientsendure,afogginessthatclearswiththepassageoftime.
1-888-864-I CAN (4226) • www.TexasOncology.com
HOW TEXANS FIGHT CANCER.
When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I considered all of my options. Then I chose to partner with Texas Oncology.
They’re part of the largest network of cancer specialists, researchers and treatment centers in the country. And
they’ve played a pivotal role in gaining FDA approval of 43 cancer drugs. I trust their expertise—and since they’re
right here in my hometown, I have my friends and family here to support my fi ght. I feel confi dent knowing
Texas Oncology is on my side.
TEXAS ONCOLOGY–MCALLEN1901 South 2nd StreetMcAllen, Texas 78503956-687-5150
YEARS
MORE THAN
F I G H TPROSTATE C A N C E R
Texas Oncology delivers high-quality cancer care with leading-edge technology and advanced treatment options to help patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.” in their fights against cancer. Texas Oncology, a pioneer in commu-nity-based cancer care, is an independent oncology practice with sites of service throughout Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Texas Oncology patients have the opportunity to take part in some of the most promising clinical trials in the nation for a broad range of cancers. In fact, Texas Oncology has played an integral role in gaining Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for 29 of the latest cancer therapies.
Dr. Marek is board-certified and specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He cur-rently serves as a director of Texas Oncology and is the medical director for Texas Oncology-McAllen. He has served the Rio Grande Valley for the past 22 years as a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been recognized as a “Super Doctor” in oncology for five years in a row, and was recognized as Doctor of The Year for Rio Grande Regional. Dr. Marek received his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He com-pleted his fellowship at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Billie J. Marek, M.D., FACPMedical Oncology/Hematology
“I can be part of your team… and together we can fight the battle.”Dr. Restrepo specializes in, medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at the University of Miami. He also serves on the Breast Cancer Committee of US Oncology and has completed a fellowship in breast cancer treatment. Through the Life Beyond Cancer Fundation he established the Texas Oncology–McAllen Breast Cancer Ride/Walk fundraiser to raise funds for Rio Grande Valley cancer patients. To date approximately $30,000 has
been donated to cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley.
Alvaro Restrepo, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Ratnam has been with Texas Oncology-McAllen for 13 years, which he joined after completing his fellowship at the renowned National Cancer Institute at the National In-stitutes of Health. He has co-authored several research publications and is passionate about cutting-edge oncology care. He currently serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee of US Oncology and chairman of the Credentials Committee for South Texas Health System.
Suresh Ratnam, M.D., FACPMedical Oncology/Hematology
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546www.TexasOncology.com
McALLEN
Dr. Wahid was fellowship-trained in medical oncology and hematology at Columbia Univer-sity College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York. He has been recognized as Physician of the Year at Rio Grande State Center in Harlingen where he has served as senior attend-ing physician for the past 13 years.
Nurul Wahid, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Litam was fellowship-trained at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He is well known in the community and was in private practice for 27 years before
joining Texas Oncology. He has special interest in treating solid tumors.
Joseph Litam, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Shekar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. She completed her fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland and trained at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Nirupama Shekar, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.
Benjamin West, M.D.Radiation Oncology
Dr. Lazo specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. He is a recipient of several awards including the American Society of Clinical Oncology Merit Award and is the author of several peer-reviewed medical publications as well as book chapters. He received the highest hon-ors on the professional examination for his medical doctorate degree.
Guillermo Lazo, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Boek is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. Prior to him joining Texas Oncology, he conducted clinical research as part of the North Central
Cancer Treatment group.
Marcelo Boek, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Salinas is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He completed his residency training at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center in New York followed by his fellowship at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Rogelio Salinas, M.D.Radiation Oncology
“Cancer prevention is a high priority. My aim is to identify individuals who may be at high risk for cancer and work with them to develop a plan to reduce that risk.”
Debbie Gillett is a nurse practitioner.
Debbie Gillett, R.N., N.P.Nurse Practitioner
WESLACO
HARLINGEN
Dr. Cisneros specializes in hematology and oncology. She completed her residency in internal medicine as well as her fellow-ship in hematology and oncology at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS. She is board-certified by the
American Board of Internal Medicine and is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
Laura E. Cisneros, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Farray is board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He received his medical degree in 1998 from the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena in the Dominican Republic and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed his fellowship in medical oncology and hematology in 2006 at Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center/Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Farray ranked first in his medical school class. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American College of Physicians.
Daniel Farray, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Harlingen 2121 Pease Street, Suite 101 Harlingen, Texas 78550 PH: 956.425.8845 FAX: 956.364.6793Weslaco 1330 East 6th Street, Suite 204 Weslaco, Texas 78596 PH: 956.969.0021 FAX: 956.968.9744
www.TexasOncology.com
Dr. Ghaddar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in hematology and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from the American University of Beirut in Beirut, Leba-non. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Good Samaritan Hospital/John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. He completed his fellowship in hematology/oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
Center in Houston, TX. He has been in practice with Texas Oncology since 1995.
Habib Ghaddar, M.D., FACPMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Araneda specializes in medical oncology and is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from San Carlos University in Guatemala and completed a medical oncology fellowship at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, as well as a fellowship in bone marrow transplantation at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. He has special interests in breast cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, hematologic malignancies, and molecular targeted therapy.
Marco A. Araneda, M.D.Medical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Gonzalez specializes in radiation oncology and internal medicine. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine as well as the American Board of Radiology, and is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO). He completed his fellowship in radiation oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, in Buffalo, New York, and also completed a second residency in radiation oncology at Jackson Memorial Hospital/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, in Miami, Florida. Aside from his medical practice, Dr. Gonzalez is a Christian lay minister and a student of ancient Greek.
Carlos Gonzalez-Angulo, M.D.Radiation Oncology
30 April 2013
HV healthy bOdy
The Skinny on Why occUPational tHeraPy Is So Helpful!
By Ritu Goel, M.D.
Mostpeopledon’tunderstandwhatOccupationalTherapyis.OccupationalTherapy(OT)isoftenusedtohelppeoplerecoverfromaninjuryortoregaincognitiveskills.Italsoprovidessupporttoolderadultswhostartexperiencingcognitiveandphysicalchanges.
Most often, OT is used to help childrenwith disabilities. At its core OTmeans usingsomeone’severydayactivitiesasameansoftherapyforthebodyandmind.Thistypeofpracticeallowschildrenwithdisabilitiestofullyparticipateinschoolactivitiesandotheractivitiesthatmostchildrenenjoy.OccupationalTherapyisabouthelpingpeopleachievetheirgoalsandlivelifetoitsmaximumpotential.
Thisformoftherapyisaveryindividualizedexperienceandrevolvesaroundthepatient.Thetherapyroutineisdeterminedbywhatthepatientsaysduringtheinterviewprocess.Atypicalevaluationwouldinclude:
1. Anindividualizedevaluationwherethetherapistsitswiththeclientandtheclients’familyinordertogetabroaderandmorespecificideaofwhattheclientandfamilywanttogetoutoftheexperienceandwhattheirgoalsareforthefuture.
2. Aninterventionstyletherapytohelptheclientlivelifetoitspotential,improvetheabilitytoperformdailyactivitiesandmakesuretheclienthasthebestchancesofreachingsetgoals.
3. Constantre-evaluationstoseehowtheclientisdoingwiththerapyandre-alignmentofthetherapyroutineasabilitiesimprove.
Oftentimes,OTalsorequiresanevaluationoftheclient’shouseandotherenvironmentsthattheclientfrequents,suchasaworkplaceorschool.OccupationalTherapyembracesmoreofaholisticapproachandbelievesinadaptingtheclient’senvironmenttofittheclientandinmakingsurethattheclientiscomfortableinhisorherlivingenvironmentwhilemakingsurethatitallowsthemtofunctionfullyandattheirbest.
OccupationalTherapyalsoincludeseducatingandguidingtheclient’sfamilymembers.Theclient’sfamilyisalmostalwaysanintegralpartoftheequation,simplybecausetheyarearoundtheclientdaily.Itisveryimportanttoeducatethefamilymembersastohowtocarefortheirinjuredordisabledfamilymemberinthemostappropriatemanner.
OccupationalTherapycanworkwondersonanyone,anywhere,anytime!Because it isnota“onesizefitsall”approach,itisveryeasytogetOccupationalTherapyworkingforyourinjuredfamilymemberrightnow!
Occupational therapist make valuable contributions in helping people master the “skills for the job of living” after an illness or injury.
HV
32 April 2013
For Pankaj G. Shah, M.D., caring for his patients’ eyes is not just a career but a calling – a calling that led him to establish the Shah Eye Center, now one of the region’s foremost vision care centers. Offering superior quality service and products has always been Dr. Shah’s dream. Born in India, he moved to the U.S. at the age of four with his family. His father earned a doctorate and moved the family to Ohio and Texas before settling in New Jersey.
Young Pankaj Shah completed his four-year college degree at Rutgers University in just three years, graduating in the top 10 percent of the class. He then graduated from Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. “I was introduced to several different specialties there and when I found
ByCharlotteLibov
Excellence in Eye Care is Dr. Shah’s Specialty
healthy bOdy
HVhV
33April 2013
care professionals to his team: ophthalmologists Drs. Carlos E. Dias and Mamta Patel, and Dr. Salvatore Alcantar, an optometrist.
“I wanted people who would reflect my point of view and take care of people the right way and
I was fortunate to find the doctors who believe as I do,” Dr. Shah said.
Dr. Shah prides himself in staying abreast of treatment advances in eye care. “The field has changed tremendously over the past few years. There have been vast improvements in all areas of eye care. When I graduated from med school, we had to use a small incision and ultrasound to break up a cataract. Now we do it all using a laser. While cataract patients formerly had only the option of getting a single distance lens, we can now implant a lens that provides patients with near perfect eyesight,” he added.
There have been huge improvements in other eye treatments as well. “Lasik has come a long way. We now perform Lasik using a laser instead of a blade and we can customize it so that the majority of people end up with 20/20 vision.
ophthalmology, I knew it was the field that really suited me,” he recalled. He completed an internship in internal medicine at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and then an ophthalmology residency at New Jersey Medical School. After that, Dr. Shaw completed a fellowship in corneal and refractive surgery at LSU Eye Center in New Orleans. Dr. Shah is board certified by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
There are three categories of professionals at Shah Eye Center. Opticians fill eyeglass prescriptions. Doctors of optometry (ODs) examine, diagnose, write optical prescriptions, and treat and manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the eye. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who provide a wider range of vision services. Only ophthalmologists like Dr. Shah treat and diagnose a complete comprehensive range of eye disorders, no matter how complex. Only ophthalmologists are allowed to perform eye surgery.
When Dr. Shah moved to Texas the second time, he met his wife, Nora. Together they opened a center in Mission and set about pursuing their dream of creating a full-care vision center. Since opening in Mission in 1998, Dr. Shah’s Eye Center has added offices in McAllen, Laredo and Weslaco. He also added three eye
“Macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, robs people of their ability to read, drive, work and live a normal life. Before, the most we could do was stabilize the vision but we now have a treatment that can not only do this, but bring back vision that has been lost,” said Dr. Shah. There are also new treatments for glaucoma, he added.
Because vision is arguably our most important sense, it’s no wonder that Dr. Shah derives great satisfaction in saving it. “Our patients see better almost immediately, which is very rewarding,” he said. “Every year there are new technological advances and new medicines for our patients and
that is very gratifying.” Techniques using lasers have been “game changers,” he noted, and there is also new ongoing research “which will accentuate what we’ve done and allow us to do more than before,” he added.
When he is not busy nurturing his growing practice, Dr. Shah enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. “I love to spend time with the kids,” he said. He’s also a runner and plays tennis.
Shah Eye Center sponsors a wide variety of community events and Dr. Shah and his doctors are on hand at numerous local health fairs. Most of all, Dr. Shah enjoys treating his patients and restoring their sight. As he put it, “We do our best for each patient and our goal is to hit that high note every single time.”
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34 April 2013
Dr. Rodrigo Rodriguez, Medical director and cofounder of International Bio Care Hospital and Medical Center, is an internationally acclaimed and widely respected physician with a succesful academic career, and many research papers, symposia and conferences in his curriculum.
PH. 1-800-701-7345 [email protected] Rodriguez, M.D.
>
steM cell tHeraPyBRINGING HEALING AND WELL BEING TO A NEW LEVEL
The year 2009 marked the 50th anniversaryof the first successful stem cell transplant.This transplant pioneered the exciting workandresearchofacompletelynewapproachinmedicaltreatment:StemCellTherapy(SCT).
These first transplants were what iscalled allogeneic, meaning the stem cellswere harvested from one individual andtransplanted into another. Previous researchshowed that transplants of blood formingbonemarrow allowed the rescue of rodentsfollowing lethal doses of radiation; thetransplanted bone marrow was able toreproduce in the transplanted animal all ofthe cell lines and functions of normal bonemarrow.
Bonemarrowtransplanthasbeensuccessfulforover50yearsinreproducingbonemarrowtissue in individuals where this organ hasbeen lost due to radiation or chemotherapyincancertreatments.Likebloodtransfusions,bone marrow transplant requires specifichuman leucocyte antigen matching to avoidtheriskofrejection,medicallyknownasgraft-versus-hostdisease.
Medicalexperienceover theyears raisedthequestion on how bone marrow tissue couldnot only be transplanted, but could providea very active organ capable of producingmultiple cell lines and immune components.Theanswerwasthepresenceofstemcells.
StemCells in a classicdefinitionpossess twoproperties:Self-renewal and Potency.
Stem Cell based repair in the 21st century will offer new hope for patients world wide who otherwise would suffer from the relentless progression of disease.
1. SELF-RENEWAL is the ability of a cell togo through cycles of self-division whilemaintaining the undifferentiated state,in other words, create new stem cells.Thesecellswillhavethecapacitytonestintherecipientorganismandcontinuetoprovide new generations of stem cells.An undifferentiated cell has the innercapacity of transforming itself throughdifferentiation into specific cells thatwillbeneededtofulfillafunctionorcreateastructure; that is, to replace a damagedtissueanditsfunction.
2. POTENCY is the capacity of a cell totransform itself, or differentiate, intospecializedcelltypes.Thiswaytheoriginalstemcellcangiverisetoanymaturecelltype according to the needs regulatedby biochemical messages sent to thecirculatingstemcell.
One of the major breakthroughs in stemcell research is the recognition of stem cellpopulationsandcapacitiesinadultindividuals.Thatistosay,theoldideathatstemcellswereonlypresentduringembryonicdevelopmentiswrong;stemcellscontinuetoexistthroughoutour lives and represent the source for cellreplacementandrenewal.
Stem Cell Research has covered so much insuchashortamountoftimeandit’sonlygoingtogetbetter.
Toobtainmore informationonStemCells,orStemCellResearch,visitwww.healthymagazine.com.
alteRNatiVe
36 April 2013
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By Consuelo Camarillo De G. Lic. AC, MD
healthy bOdy
Stress is a normal reaction when less than ideal situations come into our lives. Even when trying to cope with our usual daily activities, stress is a normal reaction that enables us to get things done. However, if we leave stress unleashed, it can cause physical as well as psychological and emotional consequences.
Stress and Oriental Medicine
Whenwefindittoochallengingtohandleourdailychoresdue to stress, we must consider factors like exercise,good sleep and nutrition. The lack of these factorsworking harmoniously can lead to a release of varioushormonesthatcausesdisruptionoftheimmunesystem,resulting in flu like symptoms, headaches, anxiety,abdominal cramps, irritable bowel syndrome, musclepain and irregularmenses, just to name a few. Lettingthis situationgoonmaycauseus todevelop insomnia,anxietyattacksordepression.
Oriental Medicine, which has been practiced for morethan 5,000 years, tells us that our energy, Qi, flowsfreely when we are harmoniously balanced, flowinginto each organ, helping it function as it should. Beingoverlystressedfortoolongcancausestagnationofthisvital energy. Different fromWesternMedicine,OrientalMedicine treats the body as a whole unit in order tobringback thebalance that is lostduring timesofhighstressandithasitsowntechniquestocopewithphysical,psychologicalandemotionalstressesthatweexperience.
Acupuncture is especially good to relaxmuscles, lowerblood pressure, eliminate stress and generate goodsleep by causing an increase of blood flow and energythroughoutthebody.Acupuncturealsoaidsinthereleaseofdifferent typesof endorphins in thebrain thathelpsus deal with stress. Different studies have proven thatacupuncture indifferentmodalitieshasbeenofhelp toimprovesymptomsofstress.Othertechniquesliketuina,taichi,qigong,cuppingandnutritionalguidancewillhelprestore the flow of energy, helping the body eliminatemuscletension.
Whilewearetryingtoliveourlivesassmoothlyaswecan,sometimes it’s difficult to deal with stressful situationsbutthecapacitytodealeffectivelywithstressisuptous.Wemustrememberthatwehaveanaturalwaytohelpourselves when we use Oriental Medicine techniquesas part of alternative medicine. We must take time tocultivate the energy to do our best to handle stress.Workingstepbystepeachdaytodealwithdailystressorswillhelpusreachanygoalwewanttoachieve.
36 STRESSANDORIENTALMEDICINE
38. BODYGUARDFITNESS
Beauty
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ess
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38 April 2013
Since 1969, Bodyguard Fitness has been a leader in the design, engineering, testing and manufacturing of fitness equipment. Throughout Bodyguard’s history, the company has remained committed to outstanding customer service, high quality innovative products and an industry-leading warranty.
Bodyguardequipmentisdesignedandengineeredwithacommitmentto5coredesignvalues:• NATURAL EXPERIENCE: Provide an exercise equip-
ment experience thatmimics all facets of the com-parativeexercise
• ERGONOMICS: Attention to detail on every compo-nentthattheuserinteractswithinordertoenhancethe “natural feel” while maximizing comfort andsafety
• RESULTS:Bodyguardunderstands thatpeoplewantresults. Bodyguard is continually developing fea-tures thatmake achieving goals quicker and easier.Furthermore,Bodyguardequipment isprogressivelydesigned to offermore advanced features as usersgraduatetonewfitnesslevels.
• INNOVATIONS: Bodyguard’s ongoing investment inresearch and development coupled with a commit-menttoutilizingthelatestengineeringpracticesandproducttechnologieshaveestablishedBodyguardasanindustryleaderinnewtechnologyandproductde-velopment.
BODYGUARD FITNESS
TURN YOUR FITNESS CONSOLE into an Entertainment Center
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A FEW UNIQUE FEATURESTURBO TRAININGTurbo Training is Bodyguard’s exclusive high-acceleration interval trainingprogram designed to simulate anaerobic sprint workouts. Turbo Trainingaccelerates the treadmill belt at 1.5 mph/sec, which means where manytreadmills can take up to 25 seconds to accelerate from 0-10 mph, TurboTrainingwilldo it in less than7 seconds.Therearemanyhealthbenefits toincorporatinghigh-accelerationsprinttrainingintoyourworkoutandthankstoTurboTrainingthisisnowpossibleonyourhometreadmill.BODYGUARD DISSIPATION SYSTEM BDSBDS is designed to achieve 3 key goals:Minimize Impact Energy,MaximizeFootStabilityandSimulateanAthleticTrackFeel.Toachievethis,Bodyguardtreadmillsrelyonmorethanjusthighqualityshockabsorbers;rather,BDSisengineeredasacomplementarysystemtotheentiretreadmillplatform.IMAGINE - THE IPAD APP imagine is a groundbreaking iPad app that turnsyouriPadintoapowerfulfitnessequipmentconsole.DownloadimaginefromtheAppStoreandthenconnectyour iPadtocompatibleBodyguardFitnessproductstoenjoyanentirelynewworkoutexperience.ADVANCED HRT CENTER Monitoring your heart rate during workouts hasneverbeenclearerthankstoimagine’snewHeartRateTraining(HRT)CenterwithitscolorcodedHeartRateReadoutandTrainingZoneDisplay.Andwhenmore advancedHeartRate TrainingPrograms are undertaken, the additionofTargetHeartRateandMaximumHeartRate%displaysmeansyou’llhaveeverythingyouneedtomaximizeyourHRTworkoutsatyourdisposal.SOCIAL FITNESSJoinfitnessgroups,suchastheBodyguardCommunity,andmeet online for regular training sessions, sharemotivational tips and bragaboutyourgreatresultsonourFacebookandTwitteraccounts.BEAT MY RACE Finally the ability to replicate every aspect of a previousworkoutispossiblethankstoimagine’sadvanced“ghosting”capabilities.Theworkout’sparameters are savedevery second (not averagedout),meaningthatwhentheprogram is repeated latereachandeveryspeed, intensityorinclinechangeoccursexactlyatthesametimeasintheoriginalworkout.Thismakesitpossibletobuildexactreplicationsofraces,suchasa10,000mtrackevent,andbuildinchangesofspeedandafinalsprintthatoccuratthesametimeaswasdoneintheoriginalrace.ADVANCED WORKOUT ANALYTICS Review and analyze your performancethankstothedetailedworkoutfeedbackoptions.Exportthedataintotablesandproducedetailedgraphsandchartsthatcanbesharedwithyourdoctor,personaltrainerorfriends.
www.BodyguardFitness.com
CA
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COMMUNITY EVENTShv
APRIL16
HealthCookingClass6:00PMRioGrandeValleyDiabetesAssoc.2007W.OwassaRd,EdinburgSpaceislimited,pleasecall956-782-1900toreserveyourseat.
EveryMonday
“DoingHealthyRight”WeightLossClass12:00PMand5:30PMTheWellnessCenteratRenaissance5525DoctorsDr.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,call956-362-5610.
Every1stMonday
SaferidersCarSeatClassesinEnglish10:30AM–11:30AMEdinburgRegionalMedicalCenter,CactusRoom1102W.TrentonRd.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,call956-388-6800.
Every3rdMonday
SaferidersCarSeatClassesinSpanish4:00PM–5:00PMEdinburgRegionalMedicalCenter,CactusRoom1102W.TrentonRd.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,call956-388-6800.
EveryTuesday
DiabetesEducationClass(callforSpanishclass)1:00PMSponsoredbySouthTexasHealthSystemMcAllenMedicalCenter,3EastClassroom301W.Expressway83,McAllenFormoreinformation,call956-971-5850.
Every2ndTuesday
Weight-LossSurgerySupportGroupMeetings6:00PM–7:00PMWeight-LossSurgeryCenter416LindbergAve.,Ste.B,McAllenFormoreinformation,call956-664-9611.
Every3rdTuesday
Spanish:Alzheimer’sSupportGroup7:00PM–8:30PMSouthTexasBehaviorHealthCenter2101W.TrentonRd.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,call956-388-1300.
EveryWednesday
CancerSupportGroup10:00AM–12:00PMHostedbyH.O.P.E.–HelpingOtherPatientsEmotionallyFreetocancerpatientsandcaregiversNewMcAllenPublicLibrary,Conf.Rm.B4001N.23rdSt.,McAllenFormoreinformation,[email protected].
Every1stWednesday
LaLecheLeague9:30AM–11:30AMSupportsandencouragesmotherswhowanttobreastfeedEdinburgChildren’sHospital,2ndFloorFamilyRoom1102W.TrentonRd.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,callAnnat956-682-9770.
1stand3rdWednesdays
BreastCancer101(SupportGroup)English@5:30PM&Spanish@10:00AMForwomenonlyTexasOncology-McAllen1901SouthSecondStreet,McAllen,TXFormoreinformation,call(956)[email protected].
Every1stThursday
USTOOProstateCancerSupportGroup7:00PMTexasOncology-McAllen,CommunityConferenceRoom1901SouthSecondStreet,McAllenFormoreinformation,[email protected].
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JuvenileDiabetesSupportGroup6:00PM–7:00PMSouthTexasJuvenileDiabetesAssociationEdinburgRegionalMedicalCenter,TheTexasRoom1102W.TrentonRd.,EdinburgFormoreinformation,[email protected].
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$10HeartRiskAssessment6:00AM–10:00AMByappointmentonlyHeartHospitalConferenceRoom,1stFloor500E.RidgeRd.,McAllenFormoreinformation,call1-800-879-1033.
ad Page
42 April 2013
legend transitional care center celebrates the grand opening of new 30 Private room Wing.
Valley Baptist
EVENTShv
A Valley woman has become the first Cameron Countyresidenttogohomethesamedayofhavingweight-loss(bariatric) surgery. Dr.AshrafHilmy,General&BariatricSurgeon, performed the first same-day “Lap SleeveGastrectomy” surgery at Valley Baptist Medical CenterinHarlingenonCelesteRamirez, age 59, ofBrownsville.Dr. Hilmy has performed various types of weight-losssurgeries through the years, but until now, none haveresulted insuchaquickturn-aroundtimeforthepatienttoleavethehospital.
Guestswhoattendedtheribboncuttingweretreatedto livemusic,cateredhorsd’oeuvresandVIPtoursofthenewlycompletedprivatesuites,therapygym,andtransitional walkway. Dignitaries in attendance wereThe Honorable U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa,Mr. Alonzo Cantu and Legend Healthcare’s MedicalDirectors. Staff from local hospitals, area physicians,formerpatients,ChamberofCommercemembersandemployeesofLegendalsoattendedthefestivities.
1/2 Page (no Bleed)7.5” x 4.75”
1/2 Page (no Bleed)7.5” x 4.75”
