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Taste the Rainbow: Ways to Incorporate Healthy Foods of Every Color

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Sugary candy isn’t the only way to taste the rainbow. Here are ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables of every color into your diet. 

Red 

For red foods, try brightening up a salad by adding sliced strawberries. Red bell peppers can be diced and added to pizza or roasted, blended and added to pasta sauce. 

Orange 

Sliced oranges make a delicious, refreshing snack on their own, but they can also be diced and added to fruit salad. Sweet potatoes can be mashed instead of regular potatoes for a nutrient-packed twist on a classic, or they can be roasted and served with chicken for a warm meal. 

Yellow

A mashed banana is versatile—it can be used as the basis of a healthy ice cream substitute or a smoothie, or it can be made into pancakes, among many other recipes. Corn kernels can be added to Mexican food, chili or cornbread. 

Green 

For a pear-ing you’ll love (see what we did there?), try pears and feta in a salad, and add walnuts for an additional crunch. Blend spinach into a smoothie for an antioxidant boost that you’ll barely taste, added to pesto or baked into a creamy pasta dish.  

Blue 

Blueberries can be added to oatmeal or yogurt for additional flavor in your breakfast. Your blueberry pancakes or muffins can be healthier by making them with whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose. 

Purple 

Grapes are the perfect addition to your snack of cheese and crackers, and frozen grapes make a fun summer treat. Shredded purple cabbage is wonderful in Thai food or a pulled pork sandwich for a crunch in every bite. 

As a general rule, most fruits are delicious in smoothies, and most vegetables taste great when cooked into an omelet. For picky eaters, cut vegetables into small pieces and add them to meatloaf or meatballs. For variety in textures, tastes and nutrients, be sure to eat fruits and vegetables in every color of the rainbow. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Rainbow Food

Sugary candy isn’t the only way to taste the rainbow. Here are ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables of every color into your diet.

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Wellness Seeker Brand vs Generic Drugs

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Is generic equivalent?  

We all have favorite brand items we’re willing to pay more for because we believe they are better than the off-brand options. Maybe there is a slight variation in our preferences for ketchup, cream cheese or tissues. When it comes to medications, the quality, safety and strength of generics are equivalent to brand.   

See below for more information on how brand and generic drugs are the same and differ. 

Generic: 

  • Nearly 8 out of 10 prescriptions filled in the U.S. are for generic drugs  

  • Equivalent amounts of the same active ingredient(s) as brand name counterpart 

  • Must look different from brand name counterpart due to trademark laws 

  • Works in the same amount of time as brand name counterpart  

Brand name: 

  • 80-85% more costly 

  • Pays for up front research costs, that created the drug from scratch 

  • Patent protected for several years before the generic equivalent is allowed 

  • Every brand name drug does not have a generic equivalent 

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Wellness Seeker Brand vs Generic Drugs

We all have favorite brand items we’re willing to pay more for because we believe they are better than the off-brand options. When it comes to medications, the quality, safety and strength of generics are equivalent to brand.   

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Infectious Disease

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Infectious Disease

Genesis Infectious Diseases Specialists maintain the highest possible level of infection control within Genesis Hospital. They also treat a variety of infectious diseases in an outpatient clinic.

Make an Appointment 740-454-5962

Our providers are trained to treat numerous infectious diseases using the latest techniques and treatments. They are able to offer appointments throughout the week, as well as virtual video visits when appropriate.

Diagnoses treated in the outpatient clinic include:

  • Skin and soft tissue infections

  • Bone and joint infections

  • Complicated pneumonia

  • Tuberculosis

  • Complex urinary tract infections

  • HIV

  • Unexplained fevers

  • Infections caused by resistant organisms such as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus (VRE)

  • Sexually transmitted diseases

  • Parasitic infections

  • Hepatitis C

  • Hepatitis B

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Our providers are trained to treat numerous infectious diseases using the latest techniques and treatments. They are able to offer appointments throughout the week, as well as virtual video visits when appropriate.

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Spice Up Your Life with Cinnamon

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Will cinnamon spice up your health? 

We love cinnamon rolls. Sadly, they are not the way to better health. Cinnamon, however, might be the way to spice up your life to improve your health. 

Used as a spice, cinnamon can add a sweet flavor to dishes and drinks. Beyond flavor, cinnamon has numerous perceived health benefits. It is believed that cinnamon may help: 

  • Reduce inflammation 

  • Lower cholesterol 

  • Reduce stress 

  • Improve memory 

  • Increase focus 

Right now, you might be wondering why everyone doesn’t use cinnamon more often than a few holiday dishes. Actually, for thousands of years, people have been using cinnamon for medicinal purposes.  

As for the environmental impact, cassia cinnamon, the most common and inexpensive type of cinnamon, is a sustainable resource. Most of the cinnamon in the United States is the cassia type, and it comes from the bark of a tree that originally came from Southeast Asia. As the trees grow back very quickly, similar to bamboo, deforestation is not a concern for this spice. Plus, agricultural chemicals are not needed.  

However, with most things, moderation is best when consuming cinnamon, as it does contain a compound called coumarin that can be toxic in large amounts and damage the liver and cause other health problems. Most experts recommend a ½ to 1 teaspoon a day. The experts also typically agree it would be difficult to reach dangerous levels using cinnamon as a spice. Still, they warn people of the dangers of taking a concentrated cinnamon pill.  

Anytime you consider radically changing your diet or adding supplements, you should always talk to your doctor first.  

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Spice Up Your Life with Cinnamon

We love cinnamon rolls. Sadly, they are not the way to better health. Cinnamon, however, might be the way to spice up your life to improve your health. 

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A Natural Way to Combat Seasonal Depression

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Feeling down? An extra dose of natural light may help brighten your mood, especially if you’re one of the millions of people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

The disorder, a seasonal form of depression, can occur at any time of year but is more common in the winter when natural light levels are lower. “SAD symptoms are similar to those of other depressive illnesses, including sleeping and eating more than usual, feeling “down” most of the time and irritability,” said Christina Parr, Director of Genesis Behavioral Health Services. “Women in their childbearing years tend to suffer from SAD more often than men, but even those who don’t have full-blown SAD may experience lower levels of energy when the nights get longer and the temperatures dip.”   

Fortunately, there are ways to combat those symptoms by taking advantage of existing natural light. 

Plan ahead 

If you suffer from SAD, the most important thing is to be proactive. Experts recommend talking to your healthcare professional about creating a seasonal plan of attack. 

Let there be light 

Because SAD kicks in when access to natural light is limited, try to look for ways to get that extra sunlight. Read a book by a window or open the curtains a little wider when there is sun to try to get any amount you can. If it is cold outside, take a drive to get out and about in whatever sun is available.  

Exercise, eat well 

Exercising more in natural light and eating healthy can have a huge impact on seasonal depression. Exercise at noon when the outdoor light is brightest. Even if that is a simple walk during your lunch hour, the exposure to light and the endorphin boost from exercising will help alleviate SAD symptoms. 

Since another symptom of SAD is craving carbohydrates, be on the lookout for overeating to prevent weight gain. It can be challenging to lose SAD-related weight after the season changes and your other symptoms are relieved. 

Seeing the light 

Here are some easy ways to add more natural light to your day: 

  • Spend as much time as possible outside, especially on sunny days. 

  • Sit close to outside windows at home and work.  

  • Keep your home as bright as possible using window treatments that let in light and trim foliage that blocks light.  

  • If possible, take a vacation to a sunny locale.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

A Natural Way to Combat Seasonal Depression

Feeling down? An extra dose of natural light may help brighten your mood, especially if you’re one of the millions of people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

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Nursing Students Donate $500 to Genesis Cancer Care Center

Submitted by emily.griffin on

The Muskingum University Nursing Student Organization recently donated $500 to the Women’s Boutique at the Genesis Cancer Care Center. The funds were raised by nursing students and will be used to assist breast cancer patients with supplies such as breast prostheses and mastectomy bras.

“We are honored to have the Muskingum University nursing students contribute to the care our breast cancer patients receive,” said Pebbles Thornton, Director, Genesis Cancer, Palliative Care and Hospice Services. “These students are our future healthcare providers and leaders, and we commend them for their commitment to helping people in our community.”

To learn more about Genesis Cancer Services, including the supplies available in the Women’s Boutique, go to genesishcs.org/cancer.

Pictured Above: Taken during the $500 check presentation are (left to right) Pebbles Thornton, Director, Genesis Cancer, Palliative Care and Hospice Services’ Steven Garcia, Muskingum University nursing student; Terra Armstead, Muskingum University Associate Professor of Nursing; and Jacelyn Wigal, Muskingum University nursing student.

Muskingum Donation

The Muskingum University Nursing Student Organization recently donated $500 to the Women’s Boutique at the Genesis Cancer Care Center.

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Gut Check Your Digestive System

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Are digestive problems leaving you with tummy troubles? Everyone gets a stomachache occasionally, but there are several organs in your digestive system that can cause abdominal pain. Digestive issues can be troublesome, causing a growing number of doctor’s visits and hospitalizations for Americans.   

Your gut plays an important role in your overall wellness. Your colon and intestines host bacteria called microflora, which vary from person to person based on infant nutrition, use of antibiotics, age and diet. It may sound strange that your gut has bacteria, but microflora is incredibly important to your health as a basic part of your immune system. They also aid the absorption of minerals into your body.  

It’s important that you have the correct balance of bacteria in your gut. An imbalance in these bacteria can cause issues like irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, gastroenteritis and even colon cancer. Clinical studies have shown that certain food products, called probiotics, can stimulate growth of your microflora and may help keep them in balance. That leaves you with a healthier digestive system. 

How to have healthy gut habits 

Choose food-based probiotics. Probiotics are the good bacteria found in many fermented foods and supplements. Several yogurts contain probiotics that can boost your good gut bacteria and reduce your bad bacteria. 

Eat prebiotics. Prebiotics contain non-digestible carbohydrates that feed probiotics and have been linked to a reduction in fat storage and irritable bowel syndrome. Prebiotics are found in whole grains, bananas, garlic, onions, honey, asparagus and artichokes. 

Skip the fatty foods. Some fats can increase your levels of bad bacteria and even damage the gut lining.   

Stop stressing. Stress can change your gut flora, reducing your good bacteria. It can also create negative changes in how your immune system functions. For a happy gut and a healthier you, figure out what has you stressing and start taking steps to eliminate your stressors. 

Checking your gut is a good idea 

There are several digestive problems that can keep you feeling down and out. Many digestive issues are controllable while others have a genetic component. Some are more minor disorders while others can have a significant impact on the quality of life.  

If you are experiencing stomach pain, bloating, gas, heartburn or any other stomach problems, talk to your doctor to find the cause and best course of action. You may be referred to a gastroenterologist – a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases – to diagnose and treat your condition. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Gut check your digestive system

There are several digestive problems that can keep you feeling down and out. Many digestive issues are controllable while others have a genetic component.

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Getting Athletes Back in Action

Remington McClung’s football days began in kindergarten, which inspired dreams of playing professionally. So, imagine his excitement and nerves during his first college football game.

He had achieved an ambitious goal of joining the starting defensive lineup as a freshman defensive end. However, something went wrong during the first quarter of that first game. 

“I was turning the corner to sack the quarterback when my knee gave out. I took two steps, and I went to the ground,” Remington said. “My season was over. I was crushed.”

Thai Trinh, M.D., Fellowship-trained Orthopedic Surgeon with Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Team Physician for Muskingum University, ran from the sidelines for an initial assessment of Remington. He didn’t need emergency care on the field, so the next steps included X-rays and an MRI. The imaging revealed an acute lateral patellar dislocation, as well as an injury to the kneecap’s cartilage. 

“When Remington’s kneecap popped out of place, it banged against the femur, causing a piece of cartilage to break off. He needed surgery to remove the floating cartilage because it could potentially scrape or damage other surfaces. During the procedure, we would also reconstruct the torn ligament that holds the kneecap in place,” Dr. Trinh said.

Learning the playbook: Picking the best treatment plan for the situation

“Dr. Trinh took the time to explain the three treatment options. I was impressed with Dr. Trinh’s knowledge. I could tell he wanted me to understand everything clearly and wanted to do what would be best for me personally,” Remington said.  

Once familiar with the medical playbook, Remington confidently moved forward with a plan to surgically reconstruct his ligament and remove the cartilage fragments. 

“Everyone at Genesis made me feel comfortable. They got to know me personally instead of treating me like another patient to operate on. That’s what I really liked about Genesis.”

Gameday: A surgical solution and team approach

On surgery day, Remington felt pre-game jitters, but personalized care from the Genesis team eased the tension. 

“Everyone at Genesis made me feel comfortable. They got to know me personally instead of treating me like another patient to operate on. That’s what I really liked about Genesis,” Remington said.

After surgery, Remington began a slow and steady recovery process. 

“Dr. Trinh didn’t want me moving too fast to avoid reinjury. He laid out a specific, six-month protocol, and I followed it diligently. Dr. Trinh wanted to make sure I’d fully recover successfully, and so did I,” Remington said

Play ball: A surgeon’s pep talk 

By the following football season, Remington returned to the starting lineup. His team even had its best season in 18 years, and Remington felt proud of his performance, once Dr. Trinh gave him a pep talk. 

“Dr. Trinh saw my first game back. I was upset with how I played that day. I had a mental block because I was worried about reinjuring myself. Dr. Trinh ended up calling me later. He motivated me with encouraging words like, ‘It’s all within you. You got this. You’ll get back to normal.’ That was special,” Remington said. “It really shows that you’re not just a patient at Genesis. You’re a person.”  

“Genesis has the largest, most comprehensive orthopedic program in the region. We put emphasis on compassionate patient care. We strive to put patients first,” Dr. Trinh said. “We care for patients throughout their entire process. 
We’re not done with our patients just because the surgery is completed. For Remington, football is his love, and our goal was to get him back to his sport. To do that, he needed medical care and a little reassurance.”  

Remington suffered an acute lateral patellar dislocation, as well as an injury to the kneecap’s cartilage. After knee surgery and a six-month recovery plan guided by Dr. Trinh, Remington is back on the field.

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Personalized Spinal Surgery Leads to an Active Life

Rebecca Welch knew long road trips could take a toll on the body, but she had never felt so uncomfortable. After driving to Michigan, she returned to Nashport with a heavy weight sitting on her right shoulder. She also experienced dull pain and tingling that shot down her arms when she moved her head. Even reading a magazine became miserable. 

Rebecca told her primary care physician about her discomfort during an annual exam. After imaging, Rebecca met with a rheumatologist, pain management specialist and physical therapist before sitting down with Yasu Harasaki, M.D., Board-certified Neurosurgeon with the Genesis Neurosurgery Group. 

Close-to-home experts

“Dr. Harasaki was wonderful. At first, I thought I’d travel to Columbus if I had surgery on my neck or spine. After sitting down with Dr. Harasaki, I changed my mind. He talked with my husband and me for an hour. He was caring and professional. He took his time and didn’t push me into anything. I really liked him by the time I left his office, I knew I wasn’t going anywhere else,” Rebecca said.

Dr. Harasaki diagnosed Rebecca with cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy, meaning she suffered from a pinched nerve in the spinal column. 

“Bones of the neck are usually stacked and aligned perfectly, creating a tunnel for the spinal cord to pass through. As bones wear down, they can slip out of alignment. The slippage then narrows the spinal cord’s tunnel, and nerves can become pinched. “That’s exactly what happened to Rebecca,” 
Dr. Harasaki said. “In fact, she had pinching on multiple levels in her neck.”

Personalized care: Individual bodies require an individual approach

Before her neck and spine problems arose, Rebecca had a couple of instances with difficulty swallowing. To compensate, doctors dilated her esophagus multiple times. Unfortunately, her past medical history impacted her current medical issue. 

“The challenge was to fix Rebecca’s back and neck without worsening her swallowing troubles. To avoid disturbing her neck, we chose to surgically enter from the back instead of the front of her neck. This isn’t our traditional approach for the procedure, but it proved to be the best personalized approach for Rebecca,” Dr. Harasaki said. 

On surgery day, Dr. Harasaki relieved the pinch and stabilized Rebecca’s spine with rods and screws. He also added material to encourage new bone growth where he fused the discs. The procedure took approximately 3.5 hours, and Rebecca recovered at Genesis Hospital for the next few days. 

“Everybody was top-notch at Genesis. Dr. Harasaki and his team were kind, efficient and very caring. Everyone I saw at Genesis was wonderful. That’s why I recommend people stay local for their healthcare – Genesis has excellent team members,” Rebecca said.  

Dr. Harasaki also highlighted the benefits of staying close to home for healthcare. 

“At Genesis, it’s a team effort. We have a specialized spine team that provides high-quality care right in our community. Plus, we have dedicated operating rooms and the latest technology. Our patients receive very good care here,” Dr. Harasaki said. 

“I’m so glad I had the surgery and that I’m back to my walking. I want to be active and stay active, and this surgery made that possible. I’m playing with my granddaughter again and caring for my family.”

Restoring the quality of life

With her neck pain gone and her quality of living restored, Rebecca has returned to the physical activities she adores. For example, last year she walked more than 570 miles along the Gorsuch Fitness Trail on the Genesis Hospital campus. 

“I’m so glad I had the surgery and that I’m back to my walking. I want to be active and stay active, and this surgery made that possible. I’m playing with my granddaughter again and caring for my family,” Rebecca said.

Dr. Harasaki diagnosed Rebecca with cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy, meaning she suffered from a pinched nerve in the spinal column. After surgery, Rebecca's neck pain is gone, and quality of life restored. 

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Back Surgery Ends Years of Pain

When it comes to growing older, Ernie Decot of Junction City says, “Just bite it, chew it and keep on going.” The endearing adage helped him smile and push through back pain that increased little by little over many years. Yet even with his positive, can-do attitude, Ernie’s pain grew unbearable, and he realized he needed medical help. 

“One Sunday, after building some stairs to my deck, I hurt like I never hurt before. I had a lot more pain and a lot less movement. I couldn’t sit down. I could hardly get in the car the next morning to go to the Emergency Department,” Ernie said. 

Once at Genesis Hospital’s Emergency Department, Ernie underwent X-rays and a CT scan. The results revealed a spine problem, and Ernie was introduced to a physician who could fix it – Nathan Amor, D.O., Board-certified Neurosurgeon at the Genesis Neuroscience Center.

“When I met Ernie, he was significantly disabled by the severe pain that radiated from his back down his legs. Some of his joints had cracked and shifted, and the nerves on the side of his spine were being pushed and irritated. So, I told Ernie about a surgery that could help alleviate that pain,” Dr. Amor said. 

Ernie felt hopeful and confident as Dr. Amor explained the posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) procedure, which would fuse defected vertebrae segments to stop painful motion. 

During the surgery, Dr. Amor removed Ernie’s abnormal and shifted joints. He also uncovered the agitated nerves so they wouldn’t be compressed or irritated and used computer navigation for precise placement of screws, spacers and rods to sustain correct alignment and proper healing.  

“No one wants to live in pain, no matter how old or ill they feel. If there’s something we can do to alleviate pain and suffering, and it’s safe for all involved, then we are going to do it,”

“This surgery took care of things that had bothered me for years,” Ernie said. “I used to hunch over. I can stand up straight now. It feels so good. I can also walk straight now. There was only one way to fix my back, and that was corrective surgery. I’m thankful there was a way and that we have Genesis so close.” 

After a few days recovering at Genesis Hospital and six weeks recovering at home, Ernie returned to his work at a concrete factory with more pep in his step and less pain in his back. 

“No one wants to live in pain, no matter how old or ill they feel. If there’s something we can do to alleviate pain and suffering, and it’s safe for all involved, then we are going to do it,” Dr. Amor said.

 Dr. Amor performed a posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) on patient, Ernie Decot of Junction City. “This surgery took care of things that had bothered me for years,” Ernie says. “I used to hunch over. I can stand up straight now. It feels so good. I can also walk straight now."

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