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Will an Aspirin a Day Keep Doctors Away?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Prevention always tops experiencing painful, dangerous and life-threatening health experiences. Can a little white aspirin really prevent a host of heart issues that plague aging people? Unfortunately, the consensus is no. However, the situation is complicated. Whether someone will experience heart issues or not as they age depends on a variety of factors. So, while it may not be effective for everyone, an aspirin a day can keep the doctor away if someone meets certain criteria.  

According to an article on the Mayo Clinic website, aspirin helps people who have already suffered a heart attack, stroke or some other kinds of cardiovascular disease prevent another episode. One study on the National Library of Science website found that the benefits of taking a daily aspirin exceed the dangers for people up to 80 years old who have an 80% or more chance of suffering a heart related issue within five years. For those older than 80 or who do not have that same risk, taking an aspirin every day won’t provide any added benefits.  

In fact, taking aspirin every day when you don’t need it can have detrimental side effects. The Mayo Clinic reports that side effects of taking aspirin can include gastrointestinal bleeding, a stroke caused by a burst blood vessel and allergic reactions. If a person takes other medications for additional medical conditions, the aspirin could react poorly with those prescriptions.  

So, is a daily dose of aspirin right for you? Consult with a medical professional before making a final decision. Those little white pills may come in handy in a medical emergency, but when used inappropriately, they can cause more harm than good.  

 

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.

asprin

Prevention always tops experiencing painful, dangerous and life-threatening health experiences. Can a little white aspirin really prevent a host of heart issues that plague aging people?

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Use the Buddy System When Working Out

Submitted by emily.griffin on

“Don’t forget to use the buddy system.” 

Remember Mom shouting that as you walked away from supervising adults and into an unknown or crowded space? Well, she was right, and her message applies to your daily workouts, too.  

Sound odd? Well, we’ve all heard the phrase, “I’ll go if you go.” It’s amazing what a little positive peer pressure can do. While the buddy system can keep us safe and social, it can also help maintain our motivation for workouts. 

Exercise partners come with big benefits

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when individuals work out with a partner, they are more likely to step out of their exercise comfort zone and try new things. The CDC says teaming up for physical exercise also helps participants stay motivated and maintain consistency. It seems that people don’t want to let their partners down, so they show up, put on a willing smile and stretch their limits.   

Another study from the University of Aberdeen found that people who commit to an exercise partner end up exercising more than those who follow their routine alone. The research also noted that calorie-burning buddies provide two types of support: emotional and instrumental (meaning tangible, physical assistance). While both types of support benefit a workout, the research discovered that workout partners who provided emotional support and encouragement had more impact than ones who simply showed up for the session. That’s great news. That means it’s time to enthusiastically cheer for each other at the gym. 

Finding a workout partner doesn’t need to be hard

With obesity rates climbing, most Americans could benefit from increasing their exercise effectiveness. Chances are if you need a workout partner, so do many of the people around you. So, why not throw out a few exercise invites? Friends, family members, partners, roommates or even pets can help take your workout to a new level. Having a workout buddy offers a win-win: More motivation and more fun together. 

 

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.

workout buddies

While the buddy system can keep us safe and social, it can also help maintain our motivation for workouts. 

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Why Do I Need A Colonoscopy?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

It’s not something we like to talk about – unless you’re a kid who likes bathroom humor – but it’s an important topic. Paying attention to our bowel movement health and getting recommended colonoscopies can help find cancer earlier.   

While colon cancer screenings are effective tools for helping detect and prevent cancer deaths, diet and weight control can help prevent it in the first place. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits and maintaining a normal weight appears to help protect against colon cancer, as well. 

Here are recommendations from the American Cancer Society: 

Weight: While being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women, the link seems to be stronger in men.  

Physical activity: Being more active lowers your risk of colorectal cancer and polyps.  

Diet: Overall, diets that are high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low in red and processed meats, probably lower colorectal cancer risk, although it’s not exactly clear which factors are important.  

Alcohol: Several studies have found a higher risk of colorectal cancer with increased alcohol intake, especially among men. It is best not to drink alcohol. For people who do drink, they should have no more than one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men. 

Not smoking: Long-term smoking is linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, as well as many other cancers and health problems.  

The bottom line is do everything you can to reduce your risk.  “Colon cancer is a silent killer,” said Stephen Ulrich, M.D., board-certified family practice, Perry County Family Practice, New Lexington, Ohio. “By the time patients notice blood in the stool, weight loss and unexplained abdominal pain, the cancer may have already spread to other organs and invaded the wall of the bowel. The result is a colostomy (a bag attached outside the body for bowel function.)”  

However, this can be avoided with adequate screening for colon cancer. The gold standard for colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy, which is recommended at age 45 if there are no other risk factors. If there is a family history of colon cancer or its precursor (colon polyps) in your family, your primary care provider may recommend earlier screenings. 

So, while it’s not typically a topic discussed at the dinner table, it’s a subject that needs shared to help save lives.  

For details on how a colonoscopy is performed, click here. 

 

 

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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.

Why Colonoscopy

It’s not something we like to talk about – unless you’re a kid who likes bathroom humor – but it’s an important topic. Paying attention to our bowel movement health and getting recommended colonoscopies can help find cancer earlier.   

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Is Breastfeeding Really That Important? 

Submitted by emily.griffin on

The decision to breastfeed is a personal one. As a new mom, you deserve support no matter how you decide to feed your baby. You should not be made to feel guilty if you can’t or choose not to breastfeed. Every woman’s journey to motherhood is different, but one of the first decisions a new mom makes is how to feed your child.  

When you choose to breastfeed, you make an investment in your baby’s future. Breastfeeding allows you to make the food that is perfect for your baby. Your milk gives your baby the healthy start that will last a lifetime. The cells, hormones and antibodies in breast milk protect babies from illness. This protection is unique and changes to meet your baby’s needs. 

“Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to nourish your baby and protect your baby from illness, and it has health benefits for the mother,” said Eric Jones, M.D., Nationwide Children’s Hospital pediatric hospitalist at Genesis. “We are just learning some of the many benefits of breastfeeding, and I am sure there are many advantages that we have yet to discover.”  

Research suggests that breastfed babies have lower risks of: 

  • Asthma 
  • Childhood leukemia 
  • Childhood obesity 
  • Ear infections 
  • Eczema (atopic dermatitis) 
  • Diarrhea and vomiting 
  • Lower respiratory infections 
  • Necrotizing enterocolitis, a disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract in pre-term infants 
  • Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) 
  • Type 2 diabetes 

“Breastfeeding is a commitment of time and love, which has lasting benefits for baby and mother,” Dr. Jones said. “How incredible is it that a mother not only grows a baby inside of her body, but her body also creates all the nutrients that baby needs to flourish and develop for months.”  

Talk to your OB/GYN to learn more about breastfeeding and for guidance on the best feeding option for you and your child. For more information on Genesis HealthCare System’s maternity services, visit genesishcs.org/maternity. 

 

 

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.

mother breastfeeding

The decision to breastfeed is a personal one. As a new mom, you deserve support no matter how you decide to feed your baby. You should not be made to feel guilty if you can’t or choose not to breastfeed.

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How to Get Your Family to Exercise

Submitted by emily.griffin on

The statistics on growing obesity among children may get your heart pumping in panic, but that won’t help your little ones if they’re getting bigger than they should. What’s a mom worried about high cholesterol, diabetes and other obesity-related illnesses to do?

family relaxing on couch smiling

First, relax. While the problem is large, there are small steps you and your family can take to make wellness a part of your everyday routine.

family dancing

Make exercise fun. Turn on the music and encourage the kids to dance around while helping to set the table, clean the kitchen or do other chores. A mini trampoline can get the heart working at home if you live in a busy area where you don’t want your kids riding bikes or playing ball in the street.

family eating dinner together

Set regular eating times. This can be tough when you’re running one kid to soccer and another to band practice, but a routine of regular meals helps curb reliance on fast food and to-go snacks that can be higher in fat and calories.

mother and child cooking together

Practice what you preach. If you’re telling your kids to stop snacking, but you’re still loading the grocery cart with chips, you’re sending mixed messages. Even when children don’t seem to be paying attention, they are. If they see you eat well, they’ll be more likely to do so too, Freeze says.

family taking a walk together

Count steps. Use a pedometer for both kids and adults. Math-minded kids may like being able to see the numbers increase with every step they take. Walking soon becomes a game.

mother and daughter preparing vegetables together

Don’t be bothered by variety. The idea of eating broccoli every night may bore you to tears, but if it’s the only veggie your kid will down, serve it up. Let your child take ownership of the dish, finding new ways to prepare and serve it.

cooking with vegetables

Be sneaky. A vegetable in spaghetti sauce is better than no veggie at all. Try introducing a new vegetable into a favorite recipe. Once it’s accepted, expand its repertoire.

 

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.

family riding bikes

The statistics on obesity among children is growing. Learn what you can do to encourage healthy habits for your little ones.

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Open Your Mouth and Say Ahh for Heart Health

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Smiles are contagious. They can stop someone in their tracks and make them fall in love (or so a million songs say), and a good smile might also be good for your heart.  

We all want to live a long, healthy life, and as heart disease is the leading cause of death globally each year, we need to do all we can to keep our hearts ticking. Of course, heart health starts with exercise, eating healthy and getting plenty of rest. You might not know that some research shows a healthy mouth is good for your heart too. 

The research isn’t conclusive. However, multiple studies infer good oral hygiene is beneficial for your heart and other health factors. According to Harvard Health, one theory of why a healthy mouth is important for a healthy heart is the bacteria that causes gingivitis can move through the body, causing inflammation and tiny blood clots.  

A 2018 study in Hypertension stated gum disease can raise your blood pressure and prevent blood pressure medicine from working properly.  

Regardless of which side of the research you believe, oral hygiene is something to take seriously. In case you need to brush up on proper techniques, we gathered the tips below from the American Dental Association. 

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. 
  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the toothbrush looks damaged 
  • Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums 
  • Gently brush back and forth in tooth-wide strokes 
  • Brush the rest of your mouth 
  • Floss once a day 
  • Visit your dentist regularly 

 

 

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.

gum disease and heart health

Multiple studies infer good oral hygiene is beneficial for your heart and other health factors.

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4 Reasons to Get Out of the Video Game World and Into the Real World

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Ganking, pwned and ragequit…oh my. 

Sound like a different language? Pretty much. It is the language of gamers and reflects how video games have become a world of their own. The question is, do you or your kids really want to be part of that world? 

While some researchers found benefits to video games (such as developing quick problem-solving skills), those benefits vary widely depending on who is playing what game and when in their life. Read on to learn why not to play and what to do instead. 

 

  1. Video games can be addictive. Exercise instead. The more people play video games, the more dopamine releases into the body, which makes it harder to stop playing. While a very small percentage of the population is clinically addicted to video games, the line can look blurry. If gaming starts to get in the way of work, family, school, or social life, it is a problem. One study on the National Library of Medicine website found high levels of video game play (more than 3 hours daily) correlates with low satisfaction in life and poor social skills. Exercise offers a great way to engage the part of your body that releases dopamine and makes you feel good without all the concerns of video games. 
  2. Video games can isolate. Hang out instead. Social interactions are a basic human need. While an argument can be made for the interactive nature of some video games, nothing beats real life hangouts. A 2010 study on the National Library of Medicine website shows that video games may temporarily meet social needs but lead to poor social skills, social isolation and loneliness in the long run. Instead, seek social settings such as live action role play games. 
  3. Video games negatively impact the brain. Go outside instead. In the book Your Brain on Nature, authors outline how screen time, including video games, can lead to chronic low-grade stress, decreased empathy, and diminished cognitive functioning. Ample research exists proving that spending time outdoors can reduce the symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder. So, see how it feels to hike or play at a city park.  
  4. Video games can desensitize you to violence. A 2011 study on the National Library of Medicine website found that chronic exposure to violence in video games can desensitize players to violence and cause an increase in aggressive behavior. This is one you might not want to replace with anything. 

 

So, is visiting the video game world okay? Probably. Just be wary that it doesn't take you away from the real world for hours at a time.

                       

 

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.

video games

Video games have become a world of their own. The question is, do you or your kids really want to be part of that world? 

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Ways to Use Coconut Oil to Help Your Skin and Hair

Submitted by emily.griffin on

From skincare to hair care and everything in between, coconut oil is becoming a staple of beauty regimens around the world. Made from the dried fruit of the coconut palm tree, coconut oil smells delicious and can be used in many ways. 

For your skin 

Coconut oil’s natural antibacterial and moisturizing properties make it ideal for makeup remover. Use a cotton ball to rub coconut oil over your mascara and eyeliner for an easy, natural solution. It even works on waterproof makeup. 

If you have dry or combination skin, make coconut oil part of your nightly routine. Massage a dime-sized amount over your face and neck (circular motions are best), then wash off the excess with your favorite facial cleanser. 

For a great alternative to expensive exfoliators, mix one part of melted coconut oil with two parts of brown sugar. 

It can also be a great substitute for your favorite hand and body lotion. After showering, apply small amounts of coconut oil wherever a little moisturizing pick-me-up is needed. 

Shiny, happy hair 

Looking for a moisturizing or shine fix for your color-treated locks? Coconut oil has you covered. A 2003 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science suggests that coconut oil helps to preserve your hair’s protein and prevent cuticle damage. 

Just a pea-sized amount of the good stuff can be worked into damp hair for a boost of shine and moisture retention. Apply to the bottom inch or two from your ends. 

Coconut oil even works as a frizz fighter. Rub in a tiny bit of oil from the middle of your hair to the ends and you’re good to go. 

With coconut oil, a little goes a long way, so be sure to use it sparingly. 

 

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.

coconut oil

From skincare to hair care and everything in between, coconut oil is becoming a staple of beauty regimens around the world.

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The No. 1 Veggie to Add to Your Diet

Submitted by emily.griffin on

If you could pick just one vegetable to add to your diet, which one would bring the most nutritional punch?  

Veggies fill us with essential vitamins and minerals, fiber and antioxidants that support our immune system, boost our gut health and nurture our mental health. While scientists have identified more than 1,000 vegetable species, most people regularly consume only a small percentage in their diet’s repertoire.  

Eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables will bring your body the most beneficial nutrients, but if you could only pick one vegetable to add to your daily meals, make it a leafy green one.  

Research shows that eating leafy greens slows cognitive decline. In fact, researchers who published on the National Library of Medicine website tracked 960 participants, age 58 to 99, who consumed at least 1.3 daily servings of leafy greens for nearly five years and found cognitive improvement similar to being 11 years younger. Talk about a lean, green anti-aging cuisine. 

Green-colored foods are some of the healthiest foods we eat because they are rich in calcium and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health.  

While leafy greens win the prize for most nutrient-dense foods per calorie, spinach ranks number one among healthful leafy greens. 

One cup of spinach contains only seven calories and an adult’s full daily requirement for vitamin K, along with the following:  

  • High amounts of vitamin A  
  • Magnesium 
  • Vitamin C 
  • Calcium 
  • Antioxidants 
  • Iron  
  • Folate  

It seems Popeye knew the power of this green leaf long before the scientific proof. Today’s research suggests that in addition to the jam-packed nutrients, spinach leaves may lower blood pressure as well as benefit heart health, according to a study on the National Library of Medicine website. Plus, with all those nutrients, it reduces blood sugar, boosts immunity, prevents certain cancers, prevents acne, boosts eye and bone health and has anti-inflammatory properties.  

To make the veggie even more lovable, spinach is easily accessible and simple to incorporate into nearly every meal. Stretch beyond a classic salad by adding spinach to soups, sauces, smoothies, pasta, eggs and even brownies.  

 

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.

The No. 1 veggie to add to your diet

If you could pick just one vegetable to add to your diet, which one would bring the most nutritional punch?  

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Bicycle Desks – Better Health … and Better Work?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

We have all heard “Sitting is the new smoking,” but what can you do if you have a desk job? 

Multiple studies in recent years are lending merit to the health and work benefits of having a bicycle desk or a portable under the desk cycle pedals.  

A University of Massachusetts Amherst study showed that overweight workers who pedaled easily during work for two hours could lower insulin levels. The same study also reported typing speed and accuracy, reading comprehension and concentration improved while pedaling.  

A study on the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health found that cycling at an easy level while at a desk did not impair typing performance or short-term memory. The study also found cycling increased speed for certain tasks. A third of the participants said cycling while working increased their motivation. 

Another study on the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that desk job workers who pedaled while at work said it improved their concentration. 

Although the studies tend to involve small groups and short periods of time, they all conclude that movement throughout the day provides numerous benefits. It’s also better to move continuously throughout the day than sit for eight hours or more and then grind through a workout.  

If you’re considering purchasing a bicycle desk, consider the options as prices vary, and some work better with certain desks. You should also always consult with your doctor before starting a new workout.  

 

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.

man at desk working

We have all heard “Sitting is the new smoking,” but what can you do if you have a desk job? 

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