Meriden and Wallingford Connecticut Health News

Welcome to The People's Press - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! We are the #1 Single Copy Newspaper for Wallingford and Meriden Connecticut – Health news and Events for November 2007 MidState’s For the Health of It Program Gets Big Response Last spring MidState Medical Center added a new program to its lineup of Bariatric classes designed to promote weight loss and healthy living. The six-week series, For the Health of It, attracted such a good response that the team decided to run the program again this September. “This program is really for everybody. Participants learn how to develop healthy relationships with food,” said Karen Darley, program developer and Clinical Social Worker at MidState. The For the Health of It Series is a comprehensive weight-loss program consisting of six components including three on emotional factors, two on nutrition, and one on exercise. Darley teaches three weeks of the program, focusing on the psychology of change, the mind-body connection, and stress management. In the psychology of change module, she explains how to manage triggers, which are those things that may cause us to overeat like a particular situation, emotion, person, or environment. We ultimately have much greater control over how we respond to these things and learning healthy, alternative strategies is key to coping most effectively, said Darley. Darley also intuitively illustrates the relationship between how a person feels and what that person might choose to eat. “People may manage anger by eating crunchy food,” she said. One participant, Meg Cavanaugh, of Meriden, enjoyed the class so much the first time around that she plans on taking it again. She said, “The psychology piece was incredible. It was like Karen was inside my head. I really believe for me it’s the piece that was missing.” There is one point that is stressed throughout all of the three emotion-centered modules: mindfulness. Most people don’t eat with awareness; they don’t taste or really experience the foods they are eating. Meals are often completely finished in 10 or 15 minutes. Darley tries to change that, however, with a unique demonstration. “I go out and buy the best strawberries I can find—big, juicy, red ones. Every person gets a strawberry, but they have to look, feel, and smell it before eating. The level of satisfaction is greater when you actually taste your food,” said Darley. For the next two weeks, registered dietitians teach participants how to eat healthy. They learn tips for dining out and how to eat on vacation, how to shop for groceries, and sample meals that are easy to prepare on a daily basis. Basics like the food pyramid and food journals are all discussed. In the final installment on exercise, a clinician from the Eastern Rehabilitation Network instructs participants on how to find an exercise regimen that works for them. The clinician also takes participants to the hospital’s wellness center to demonstrate how to work the cardio equipment and the safe way to lift weights. Many times, people have a fear of the gym because the equipment seems so complicated and daunting. The program infuses practical elements like the gym demonstrations to enhance everyone’s comfort level. Cognitive restructuring, or changing the way a person thinks, is the key to a successful exercise program. Darley commented on the need get people to think different about exercise saying, “I think they know they hate it [exercise], so you have to find something you like to do.” Overall, the program incorporates several factors needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “The program put me in the right direction—I’ve lost 27 pounds,” Meg said. The For the Health of It series begins on Wednesday, September 19 and runs consecutively until October 24. The entire series will be held at MidState Medical Center from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Speakers include Anne Young and Lisa Pranger, Registered Dietitians; Keith LaChance, Physical Therapist; and Karen Darley, Clinical Social Worker. Call Karen Darley at 203-694-8343 to register. MidState Medical Center Treats Pediatric Sleep Disorders A good night’s sleep is essential for the well-being of adults, but it is even more critical for a developing child. The National Institutes of Health recommends that children ages 7-11 get at least nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health and functioning. Unfortunately, many children do not get the recommended number of hours of sleep each night. A child’s disrupted sleep can be due, in part, to a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, or restless leg syndrome. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics notes that 3% of children aged 2-8 have obstructive sleep apnea. How do you know if your child is suffering from a sleep disorder? Nancy Keiluhn, RRT, RPSGT, Pediatric Specialist at MidState Medical Center’s Sleep Care center, offers some signs and symptoms to look for in determining if a child is affected by a sleep disorder. “We call it failure to thrive,” said Keiluhn. This symptom is specific to obstructive sleep apnea because children can actually burn extra calories at night trying to breathe, resulting in improper weight gain. Children who are underweight or do not seem to be growing may be plagued by disrupted sleep in general. In deep sleep stages, a child’s body secretes special growth hormones that sustain the child’s weight and height. If sleep is disrupted, however, hormone secretion may be decreased and the child may not grow as well. Another major sign to look for is hyperactivity. Keiluhn emphasizes that “this one question can give you a boat load of information.” While most adults who go without sleep would be sluggish the following day, many children are hyperactive. Consequently, many children who have a sleep disorder could potentially be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. These children may be disruptive in school, inattentive during daily activities, or have mood swings with irritable behavior. A recent study in first grade students found that 18% of the students in the lowest 10% of the class academically had obstructive sleep apnea.. Treatment of the disorder lead to significantly improved school performance and a decrease in hyperactivity. Children with obstructive sleep apnea may snore with intermittent pauses, gasps, or snorts, stop breathing for brief intervals during sleep, and have restless sleep, sweating, and recurrent bedwetting. Yet a child doesn’t have to suffer with a sleep disorder. Sleep Care at MidState Medical Center offers a state-of-the-art facility geared towards the special needs of children to help diagnose and treat a potential sleep disorder. If a child has problems sleeping, a nighttime sleep study may be beneficial to help correct the problem. “It is important that sleep issues in children be discussed. Parents may not bring sleep issues to the attention of their pediatrician feeling their child may grow out of it,” said Keiluhn. During a sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram, a child’s sleep pattern will be recorded, including disrupted breathing, snoring, leg movements, heart rhythm, and oxygen levels. A small video camera in the room will also record what occurs during the night. The sleep study requires that small sensors, called electrodes, be placed on your child’s head and other areas. For example, electrodes are placed next to each eye to determine dream sleep, on the chest to read heart rate, and on the legs to detect movement. The electrodes, however, are completely painless and easily applied. While MidState’s Sleep Care center can treat children ages 5 and older, any child under the age of 18 must have a parent accompany them for the nighttime sleep study. Sleeping accommodations are made available to the parent. Our sleep studies take place in a home-like atmosphere to ensure the utmost comfort of the child and parent/guardian. “Properly diagnosing and treating the disorder can result in the resolution of daytime symptoms,” said Keiluhn. And that can make everyone sleep a little better. For more information, contact Sleep Care at Midstate, 1-800-SLEEP-RX or visit www.midstatemedical.org. About MidState In quarterly patient satisfaction surveys (conducted by an independent, national research company), MidState consistently rates among the top hospitals in Connecticut and the nation. Conveniently located just minutes off Rte. 691 in Meriden, CT, MidState offers free and safe parking, as well as private inpatient rooms. Services include general surgery, emergency medicine, MidState Medical Group Walk-in Center for urgent care needs, and state-of-the-art care in centers dedicated to Cancer Care, Wound and Hyperbaric Care, Family Birthing, Sleep Care, Digestive Health, Pain Management, and Cardiac Care.For information, call 203 694 8200, or visit www.midstatemedical.org. To find a MidState Doctor, call: 1 866 MMC 5678 Annual Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar Presented by MidState Medical Center Saturday, November, 17, 2007 MidState Medical Center Horwitz Conference Center 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The MidState Medical Center Gift Gallery will host the 2nd Annual Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar in the hospital*s Horwitz Conference Center. This year*s bazaar has a new twist with all arts and crafts handmade by MidState Medical Center employees and volunteers. Approximately 25 vendors will be showcasing their crafts at the event, including custom jewelry and purses, elegant scarves and belts, luxurious soaps and lotions, unique handmade cards, and accessories for the home. Twenty percent of all sales will benefit the MidState Auxiliary, which supports the hospital through volunteering and fundraising activities. The Pink Partini Fashion Show Presented by MidState Medical Center Thursday, November 8, 2007 Aqua Turf, Plantsville, CT6 p.m.- 9 p.m. Cancer survivors and hospital staff will model the latest fashions from Talbots of Southbury; Kimberly Boutique of West Hartford; The Dressing Room of Wallingford; Diva Kidz of Westfarms Mall, Farmington; and Modern Formals of Meriden, North Haven and Southington. Event includes cocktails, signature martini, hors d*oeuvres, and chocolate dessert bar. Tickets are $45. Call Dawn Papallo at 203-694-8742 for tickets and more information. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Center at MidState.The Cancer Center at MidState Medical Center Presents a Women*s Health Symposium Augusta Curtis Cultural Center Tuesday, October 30, 2007 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Women*s Health Symposium will feature a variety of skilled doctors and clinicians providing valuable information regarding breast health, cervical cancer, and a variety of complementary therapies, some of which include acupuncture, reiki and soft touch therapies, music and art therapies, guided imagery, meditation, yoga, pilates, journaling and chair massages. Speakers scheduled for the event include Elizabeth Riordan, MD, Director of Breast Services at MidState, discussing general breast health, a clinician from Eastern Rehabilitation Network focusing on their breast cancer program, and Michelle Taylor, MD, educating women on the human papillomavirus (HPV) and vaccine for the prevention of cervical cancer. Several vendors will also be showcasing their servicesand products, including wig fittings for cancer patients from Miracles and Beyond, mastectomy clothing and prostheses from A Woman I Am, teas from Evolve, a gift and tea boutique and integrative therapy books from Alphabet Garden. Hot and cold appetizers provided by Carriage House Farms and wine, beer and soft drinks from Two Pour Guys. Pre-registration is required. To register, call 203-694-8353. BARIATRICS (Weight Loss) Please call Karen Darley, LCSW to register - 203-694-8343 Bariatric Information Seminar Tuesday, November 13, 2007 6:30 * 8:00pm The seminar is an opportunity for individuals considering bariatric surgery to meet with our Bariatric Team and learn about the option of weight loss surgery. Dr. Benbrahim will cover the medical/surgical aspects of obesity and the benefits of weight loss surgery; Our dietician will talk about nutritional issues with a focus on post-op diet; Our pharmacist will briefly discuss medication issues and there will be a discussion on behavioral/emotional aspects of the surgery. Horwitz Conference Center, 2nd Fl, MidState Medical Center Registration Required Weight Loss Surgery Support Group Tuesday, November 6, 2007 5:30 - 6:30pm These groups offer a wonderful opportunity for pre-operative patients and their families to learn from experienced bariatric surgerypatients. Horwitz Conference Center, 2nd Fl, MidState Medical Center No Registration Required Holiday Meal Food Safety Tips Submitted by the Wallingford Health Department Holidays are here! And with the holidays comes food, lots of food. High protein, high moisture foods such as turkey present the potential for a food borne illness. Follow the "turkey basics" for a safe holiday. Keep all refrigerated foods cold; thaw frozen food in the refrigerator not on the kitchen counter. Generally, it takes 24 hours per 5 pounds of turkey to thaw in the refrigerator. If you don't have enough time, thaw under running water for about 30 minutes per pound. Cook a fresh turkey within 2 days of purchase. If you are cooking a stuffed turkey, mix the ingredients just before it goes in the turkey and stuff loosely, about 3/4 cup per pound of turkey. Always use a thermometer when cooking, do not rely on time alone to know when your meal is ready. The bird is done when it reaches 180 degrees F in the innermost thigh and a stuffed bird should reach 165 degrees in the center of the stuffing. Remember that a stuffed bird takes longer to cook. Set the oven temperature no lower than 325 degrees F. What about all those leftovers? Always reheat to 165 degrees F. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers promptly in small shallow containers and wrap tightly. How long should you keep your leftovers? Refrigerator: Frozen: Cooked turkey 3-4 days Turkey slices/pieces 4 mos Stuffing and gravy 1-2 days Turkey with gray 6 mos. other dishes 3-4 days Stuffing 1 mo. You should also have plenty of fresh cut vegetables on hand for those in-between meal munchies. Try to incorporate some holiday spirit that doesn’t focus on food. Why not take a walk after the meal before the pie. You can have a safe and healthy holiday! Put a gift certificate to a local gym on your Christmas wish list or a new pair of sneakers. For more information contact the Wallingford Health Dept at 294-2065 or the toll free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. We also have FREE magnets with Safe Food Temperatures so you won’t forget. Stop by Wallingford Town hall, rm. 215 today. Meriden Movers November Group Walk Schedule Submitted by the Meriden Health Department Meriden Movers, a community walking program, will meet at the Platt High School track twice a week starting November 6, 2007. The group will meet Tuesdays, from 10:00am-11:00am, and Thursdays from 5:30pm-6:30pm. In the case of bad weather (rain or snow), the walk will be cancelled. All Meriden residents are encouraged to attend. The walk is done at your own pace. Wear comfortable clothing (dress for the weather); bring a water bottle and a pedometer if you have one. Additional pedometers and walking logs will be available at each walk. Meriden Movers is a walking program started by the Meriden Health Department. The program encourages all Meriden residents to walk for better health. The program is funded by the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford venture grant program. For more information, please call Lea Crown, Health Educator, at 630-4238. THE SIMPLE DIET (Start Introducing a More Powerful, Lifestyle and Eating habits) Having and maintaining a healthy diet can be overwhelming today because of all of the different diet regimens, food products, and supplements out there in the market place. There is so much that it could make one’s head spin, and yet others may find it easier to just give up and eat what’s comfortable, whether that’s a frozen dinner or take out. But eating right doesn’t have to be hard, confusing, or even bland. It can be rather easy if you think of the word simple. Foods that look simple, are simple to make, and have simple ingredients, are usually the best choices when it comes to eating right. They usually have only a few ingredients to them and usually don’t take long to cook. But how can you make simple choices in the complex world of food stores and restaurants? The best way to make these choices is to start with some research on the food. You can accomplish this by reading the labels of the products. Some people may find this time consuming when you are at a store with little ones, but it doesn’t have to be. Most products today are trying to go “organic”, “green”, or “all natural” and that part of the label will usually stand out somehow on the box or even in the aisles. Reading the contents of the package is also helpful when keeping your diet simple. I find as a general rule of thumb, that if that ingredient list is long, it’s probably not a simple food. A long list will most likely contain huge amounts of additives and preservatives that could be bad for you or even make you more hungry or thirsty, and that’s not great for any diet. The shorter the list, the better the food is for you, because it will have the vitamins you need naturally. Now, I know what you must be thinking, so how do I accomplish a simple diet at a restaurant or fast food joint? Well, even these places have changed with the times and are listing simple foods on their menus as well as providing a list of how many ingredients, calories, and sodium is in the particular food of choice. Another general rule of thumb when scanning calories and sodium, is that less is best. Excessive sodium can not only make you thirsty, it can build up in your body and lead to an unhealthy heart or even cholesterol level. Excessive calories could lead to being over weight or at the very least, make you feel bloated. Now, there is one very important thing to remember when it comes to eating right. You need to cheat on your diet every once in a while. Sweets, burgers with fries, and potato chips really do have a place in any diet, including a simple one. There is nothing terribly wrong with eating ice cream, unless you consume too much of it. Too much of anything isn’t good for anyone and if you keep every food in mind and realize that you can eat in moderation, your diet can be successful and healthy. Each food that you eat should come from one of the basic food groups and sweets are in the basic pyramid. Fruits, vegetables, grains, meats and dairy are all important to a simple and healthy diet. If you have one of each of these groups in each of your meals, you are eating healthy. For instance, lasagna could be prepared with all of the food groups in mind. Ground turkey, hamburger, or chicken can be browned and added to your pasta sauce for your meat group. The pasta sauce contains tomatoes, which are from the fruit group, and vegetables can be added to the sauce for your vegetable group. The cheese is part of the dairy group and the lasagna itself is part of the grains group. Even sweets can have several food groups in it, apple pie is a good example because of the fruit and grains it contains. Adding a scoop of ice cream will add the dairy group to the dish. Another thing to consider in maintaining a healthy diet is to consider exercising to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise can also be as complex or as simple as you want to make it. You don’t have to join a gym or get a trainer to get in some great exercise. For instance, you could take the stairs instead of the elevator, parking your car a little further away in the parking lot when you are shopping will encourage a brisk walk, using canned food in your cupboards as weights can build your muscles, or even playing in the park with a child. Gyms are great if you want to exercise on a treadmill or even practice yoga. They can also be a great place to meet some new people that encourage your healthy lifestyle. This can be important to you because positive people tend to spread it around wherever they go. And that will only want you to do more for yourself. So that can’t be a bad thing. These are just a few ways to keep your diet simple to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Creativity is the best way to keep great eating habits and exercise in your life. Here’s to having a happy and simple lifestyle. Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom Founder of Writers With Chronic DiseaseWriterswithchronicdisease-owner@yahoogroups.com Author and Publisher Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom www.kimberleylinstruth-beckom.com