Partners for Your Health Blog

Going on Vacation? Don’t Let Gut Woes Sabotage Your Travel Plans

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 12:30:00 GMT

You probably have an extensive packing list for your upcoming summer vacation, but one thing you don’t want to bring along is stomach trouble. Between the constant dining out, the disruptions to your routine and the stress that goes along with planning a vacation, it’s no surprise that gut woes are a common complaint.

However, even the most sensitive stomach owners can take steps to prevent tummy trouble and enjoy their time away. Here are some tips to prevent the most common stomach ailments while traveling.

Nausea

Since going on vacation typically involves, well, going somewhere, motion sickness is a common concern. Whether you’re in a car, on a plane or aboard a cruise ship, nausea can rear its ugly head and make your trip much less pleasant.

It’s hard to avoid it completely, but there are some steps you can take to minimize motion sickness and make yourself feel better faster.

Face the direction you’re traveling. In a car, try to sit in the front seat, if possible.
Avoid reading, scrolling through your smartphone or watching videos.
Find a source of fresh air, or air in general. Roll down the windows, turn up the AC or open your seat vent.
Try not to overeat or consume alcohol before traveling if you are prone to motion sickness.
Talk to your doctor about over the counter or prescription medication to help with nausea and other symptoms of motion sickness.

Diarrhea

Known as “travelers’ diarrhea,” this version of the upset stomach is common for international travelers, especially in Mexico and South America. While most cases of travelers’ diarrhea are caused by drinking unsafe water, some travelers experience diarrhea simply because they’re trying new foods or experiencing stress. Here’s how you can prevent travelers’ diarrhea.

If you’re visiting an area where it’s not recommended to drink the water, be vigilant. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth, don’t add ice to your drinks and avoid eating foods like salads that might have been washed in contaminated water.
Don’t be too adventurous. If you’re known for a sensitive stomach, take things slow. When trying new-to-you foods, consider having a small amount and waiting to see how your stomach handles it.
Eat balanced meals. It’s easy to use vacation as an excuse to splurge, but you don’t want to shock your system with too much unhealthy food. Make sure you’re still eating balanced meals and getting in your fruits and vegetables.

Constipation

The stress of travel and being in a new place can sometimes put your digestive system on strike. To lessen your discomfort and get things moving, follow these tips.

Drink lots of water. Dehydration contributes to constipation, so bring a refillable water bottle to carry with you or buy bottled water frequently.
Exercise. Physical activity can help prevent or treat constipation, so add some movement into your vacation plans.
Watch your fiber intake. High fiber snacks are very portable, so have some on hand to fight constipation on vacation. Fruit, nuts or high fiber cereals are all great options.

Want more tips on taking care of your body this summer? Download our free Summer Survival Guide.

What Are 3 Signs of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 12:30:00 GMT

It’s summer. Time to soak up the sun, right? Well, not quite. Before you head out to catch some rays, make sure you’re taking the proper steps to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. You know the drill: wear sunscreen, reapply, take breaks from the sun, drink lots of water. But what else can you do to reduce your risk of skin cancer?

Skin cancer affects more than 3.5 million Americans each year, making it the most prevalent of all cancers. Catching it early can increase your chances of making a full recovery, but detection has to start with you. So, what should you look for? Here are three skin cancer signs you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Basal cell carcinomas. Typically found in areas of your body that see a lot of sun, like your face or arms, basal cell cancers are characterized by a spot, patch or sore that doesn’t heal after several weeks. Your skin might have small raised bumps that bleed or form scabs.

2. Squamous cell carcinomas. Look for growing bumps that sometimes become rough, scaly or crusty on the surface. While both these carcinomas can be difficult to diagnose in yourself, a good rule of thumb is to visit the doctor if you notice a patch that doesn’t appear to heal after a significant period of time.

3. A mole that has recently changed appearance. Aside from fading with age, your moles should generally stay the same size and shape for years to come. If you have a mole that changes in size, shape or color, it might be a sign that melanoma is developing.

How to Detect a Cancerous Mole

To determine if you have a mole that exhibits signs of melanoma, follow the “ABCDE rule.” This stands for: ·

Asymmetry: The two halves of your mole no longer match. ·
Border: The outside edge of your mole is irregular.
Color: The color is not consistent or looks different from your other moles.
Diameter: If your mole is larger than six millimeters across, it might be cause for concern.
Evolving: If your mole has “evolved,” or changed, in size, shape or color.

If you notice a mole that is changing in any of the above categories, make an appointment with your dermatologist immediately. Since it can be a challenge to check certain parts of your body yourself, like your scalp and back, it’s also a good idea to make regular “mole check” appointments for early detection.

When it comes to your skin health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Skin cancer can be easily treated if found early, so be vigilant about your personal checks.

Take steps toward early detection today. Contact us to request an appointment.

5 Places to Run Free and Exercise With Your Dog in Cleveland

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 12:30:00 GMT

If you’re looking for a new workout buddy, look no further than your favorite four-legged friend.

Exercising with your dog can be great for both of you — you’ll get to spend time together while also doing something good for your health.

Most public spaces have leash laws for your dogs, but there are a few great hidden gems in Cleveland where both you and your dog can run free. Bring a tennis ball for fetch and a bottle of water (don’t forget the bowl to share!) and enjoy an active day with man’s best friend.

Here are our picks for the best leash-free dog parks in Cleveland.

1. Clark Field Dog Park, W. 11th St. and Clark Ave., Cleveland

Aside from the fence bordering the park, Clark Field Dog Park doesn’t try to box you and your dog into a certain area based on breed or behavior. With such a large space to run free, you and your dog can really get moving.

2. Friends of Lakewood Dog Park, 1699 Valley Parkway, Lakewood

If your pooch also likes to swim, this is the park for you. Located at the marina in the Rocky River Reservation, Friends of Lakewood has a small beach with a shallow entry so your dog can splash around and cool off after your run.

3. Brunswick Dog Park, 3637 Center Rd., Brunswick

This park has an extensive amount of green space for you and your dog to cover lots of ground. With so much space to move around, you’re sure to get a good workout in.

4. Twinsburg Dog Park, 9439 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Designed to be a social spot for both you and your dog, this dog park puts the emphasis on bringing humans and canines together for exercise and fun.

5. Bay Village Dog Beach, Lake Road and Columbia Road, Bay Village

This unique spot is a beach designed specifically for dogs and their owners. Bring a Frisbee to play fetch in the water or take a swim together through Lake Erie.

If you’re looking to cover a few more miles and your pet doesn’t mind exercising on a leash, you can also check out the Holden Arboretum, which boasts several miles of trails for hiking or a leisurely walk.

Looking for other ways to stay active this summer? Download our free guide, “6 Steps to Getting Fit and Active.”

Summer Food Smackdown: Which Fast Foods Are Healthier?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 13 Jun 2014 12:30:00 GMT

Ah, summer — the season for cookouts and ballpark snacks. You want to enjoy it in all its glory, but you don’t want to take a three-month vacation from your healthy diet.

That’s why we’re making it easier for you to cheat— well, within reason. To show you which summer foods you can probably get away with eating, we’ve arranged a little head-to-head competition.

Round #1: Hamburgers vs. Hotdogs

The stats: If we’re just speaking calorically, hotdogs usually win this competition. Given their usual smaller size—a burger is typically between six to eight ounces—and not including high-calorie toppings, like cheese and chili, the average hot dog has about 300 fewer calories than the average burger. However, calories shouldn’t be the only determining factor.

Deciding factors: When making the choice between a hotdog or a hamburger this summer, consider these details when you’re making a health conscious choice:

The quality of the meat. Even if it contains more calories, a burger made from lean ground beef can still be a healthier choice than a hotdog containing additives like sodium nitrate or nitrate.
Your hunger. If you’re feeling extra hungry, it might be better to fill up on one burger than risk needing more than one hotdog—thus eliminating its lower calorie advantage—to satisfy your hunger.
Sodium levels. Because hotdogs are highly processed, they contain a lot of sodium. Some hotdogs include as much as 500mgs of sodium per dog.
The homemade factor. Hamburgers are easier to make homemade, allowing you to make some healthy swaps. Try using ground turkey instead of ground beef or wrapping your burger in lettuce leaves instead of a bun.
The toppings. What you put on your hotdog or hamburger can make a big difference. Lean toward the lettuce, tomatoes and onions first; stay away from the extra cheese.

The winner: We’re calling this one a tie. Just make sure you’re considering all the deciding factors and making healthy swaps when possible.

Round #2: Salsa vs. Guacamole

The stats: Since avocados are the main ingredient in guacamole, it’s high in both calories and fat. Even though avocados are generally considered a healthy food—and the fat is one of the “good fats”—they aren’t always the best choice for your waistline. Salsa, on the other hand, is usually made entirely from chopped vegetables, like tomatoes, onions and peppers.

Deciding factors: Before you completely nix the guacamole from your cookout menu, let’s look at a few other deciding factors.

What you’re dipping. Tortilla chips are already a fairly high-calorie snack, so if you’re dipping chips, salsa is probably your best choice. However, if you’re using raw vegetables like carrots or celery, you can afford a few extra calories from guacamole.
How much you’re eating. Chips and dip are usually intended as an appetizer—the difficulty comes in limiting yourself. If you can keep it to just a few bites, the nutritional benefits of avocados might be worth the increase in calories.

Round #3: Nachos vs. Popcorn

The stats: This is another example where what you put on top can really make a difference. However, even the most buttery popcorn tends to give you a greater volume of food for your calories; whereas a small container of nachos with cheese can really add up in the calorie department.

Deciding factors: There are certainly ways to make both of these treats healthier, so here are a few factors to consider in your decision.

What’s on top. Butter obviously adds to the calorie count of popcorn—a snack that’s remarkably low in calories on its own. For instance, one cup of air popped popcorn contains only 31 calories. If you can skip the butter, you have a clear winner.
How it’s made. Popcorn popped in oil will certainly have more calories than air popped popcorn, but it probably still isn’t enough to compete with nachos. Since nachos, at their very least, contain chips and cheese, it’s tough to improve on their health factor. However, emphasizing nutrient-rich toppings like beans, chicken and diced vegetables can limit the space for less healthy toppings like cheese and sour cream.

The Bottom Line

If you’re taking the time to consider how your favorite foods stack up against each other, you’re already on the right track to making a healthy eating decision. Remember that it’s all a matter of balance and moderation.

Want more tips on eating healthy this summer? Click here to download our free guide, “5 Steps to Eating Healthy.”

Decoding Your Lab Results

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Thu, 29 May 2014 12:30:00 GMT

You made the proactive decision to get blood work done, but now your lab results are in and you’re more confused than ever. Even if your doctor takes the time to explain them, you might find yourself forgetting the details as soon as you leave the office. Interpreting what each score means and why it matters to your overall health can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

To help decode your lab results, we’ve put together a handy cheat sheet.

Test #1: Cholesterol Levels

Why You Need It: Keeping your cholesterol levels in check is important for a healthy heart and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

HDL Cholesterol: These are considered the “good” cholesterol levels, so the higher the better. Certain factors, such as smoking and a sedentary lifestyle, can result in lower levels. Some prescription drugs and genetic factors can also contribute to keeping this number low.

LDL Cholesterol: These are the “bad” cholesterol levels you should aim to keep as low as possible. However, your LDL number should no longer be the main factor that determines treatment to prevent heart attack and stroke, according to the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association.

Triglycerides: This is the most common type of fat in the body. High levels might indicate a build-up of fat deposits on your artery walls, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Total Blood Cholesterol: A number that is determined by adding your HDL and LDL levels with 20% of your triglyceride levels. An optimal score is less than 180 milliliters per deciliter of blood (mg/dL).

Test #2: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

Why You Need It: To check your kidney and liver function and your electrolyte levels. \

Glucose: Sugar in your blood. High numbers can indicate diabetes or pancreatitis; low numbers can indicate liver disease.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): A waste product carried from the liver to the kidney and then filtered out of the blood. In general, 7-20 mg/dL is considered normal, according to the Mayo Clinic, but the range could vary depending on your age and the reference range used by the lab. A low number might mean malnutrition; a high number can indicate kidney or liver disease.

Creatinine: The chemical waste of muscle metabolism. Since the amount of creatinine increases with muscle mass, men typically have higher levels than women. A range of 0.6- 1.3 mg/dL is considered normal. A high number might mean you have decreased kidney function. Be aware that this number can also increase temporarily if you’re dehydrated, eating large quantities of meat or taking certain medications.

Albumin: Protein that helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and distributes nutrients throughout the body. A normal range for adult men is 3.5-5.0 g/dL, but the range may be slightly different for women. Low numbers indicate liver or kidney disease.

Bilirubin: Digestive fluid produced by the liver that shows up as a pigment in the bile. A normal range is 0.1-1.0 mg/dL. A high number might mean liver disease or bile duct disorder.

Test #3: Complete Blood Count

Why You Need It: To measure the various components of the blood essential for function.

White Blood Cell Count: These are the defenders against infection. Low numbers could signal an autoimmune disease and high number could be an indicator of infection or cancer. 3.5-10.5 billion cells per liter or 3,500-10,500 cells per microliter (mcL) is considered normal.

Red Blood Cell Count: These cells deliver oxygen to tissues throughout the body. A high number could indicate congenital heart disease. For a man, 4.32-5.72 trillion cells/L or 4.32-5.72 millions cells/mcL is considered normal. For a woman, a normal range is 3.9-5.03 trillion cells/L or 3.90-5.03 million cells/mcL.

Hemoglobin: The pigment in red blood cells that carries oxygen. A low count isn’t always a sign of illness, but it can indicate diseases such as cancer, cirrhosis, leukemia or iron deficiency anemia. A normal range for a man is 13.5-17.5 grams/dL or 135-175 grams/L; a normal range for a woman is 12-15.5 grams/dL or 120-155 grams/L.

Platelet Count: Your platelets are your blood cells that are responsible for clotting. Low numbers are associated with lupus and both low and high numbers can indicate leukemia. A normal platelet count is 150-450 billion/L or 150,000-450,000/mcL.

How Fit is Cleveland?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Tue, 27 May 2014 12:30:00 GMT

The American Fitness Index recently released its annual report on America’s fittest cities and — good news! — 2013 saw Cleveland break into the top 20 with a ranking of 19th. For the past several years, Cleveland has ranked in the top half of the 50 Fittest Cities, but this past year saw a big jump from 23rd in 2012.

This is certainly cause for celebration, but there is always room for improvement. Let’s take a look at how the rankings are determined to see how our city can continue to show a dedication to fitness.

Learning from Number One

2013 marks the third year in a row that Minneapolis has been ranked the fittest city in America. In addition to having low cardiovascular death rates, Minneapolis also makes a big financial commitment to having healthier residents. Their parks budget breaks down to $227 per person, which is more than double the budget of many other cities on the list. By investing in resources, Minneapolis gives its residents better access to opportunities for fitness and increased activity.

Despite frigid temperatures much of the year, biking, walking and running are popular activities throughout the area. The city boasts 182 parks — more per square mile than any other city in America, according to a Today show segment that featured its efforts. It hosts year-round programming at those parks, from a 5K in -9 degree weather to Zumba classes and play sessions for toddlers at nearby gyms available to all families, regardless of income. The Mall of America even hosts a Mall Stars walking program that helps members track their progress and offers rewards that include discounts and monthly motivational breakfasts.

There’s also an effort to teach children to eat better. The Urban Roots program works with high schoolers who live in “food deserts” where fresh produce isn’t as readily available, teaching them gardening and cooking skills. The city offers a wide variety of farmers markets that make it easier to select healthy options, and all major markets accept food stamps.

What Can Cleveland Do Better?

Cleveland already has a robust metroparks system with more than two dozen locations and a variety of programming, but more opportunities in urban areas could improve the health of residents who lack access to transportation. There are other steps Cleveland can take to compete. The index also looks at obesity rates, access to health care, smoking rates, availability of recreational facilities and farmers’ markets.

Not all citywide changes have to be expensive or complicated, either. For instance, Cleveland has a smoke ban in restaurants and bars, but extending that ban to all public places — including parks and outdoor seating at restaurants — would make a strong statement about the city’s commitment to health. Additional farmers market locations in urban areas could also go a long way to improve the health of all residents.

Taking Responsibility for Your Own Heart Health

As Clevelanders, we can offer all kinds of excuses about why we aren’t in better shape — it’s too cold, we can’t afford a gym membership, preparing our own meals is more time-consuming than picking up frozen dinners — but we have to take responsibility to improve our own fitness. That can start with small steps, like making the decision to drink water with our meals instead of pop or committing to walking three days a week. After all, our city’s overall rating begins and ends with you. The better you take care of yourself, the more likely we are to see things like our cardiovascular death rate and obesity rates decrease.

How would you like to see Cleveland improve its fitness ranking? What health opportunities do you wish you had? Let’s get a discussion going in the comments.

Healthiest Eats in Cleveland

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 23 May 2014 12:30:00 GMT

It’s one of the biggest challenges to sticking to a healthy diet: dining out. However, just because you’ve made the commitment to eat healthy doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a restaurant-cooked meal. We’ve shared tips for making the best menu choices, but what about where to eat?

Choosing a restaurant with options that won’t derail your healthy eating plan will help you stay on track. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of Five Healthy Restaurants in Cleveland.

Earth Bistro Café. Described as “contemporary American cuisine with a Cuban flair,” Earth Bistro Café offers both vegan and vegetarian options, as well as fresh fruit smoothies and juices. Try this: Authentic Vegetarian Tacos with a “Havana” juice—made with avocado, lime and oranges!

Aladdin’s Eatery. Serving “healthy and nutritious” American and Lebanese food, Aladdin’s has a wide variety of foods with fresh ingredients. Try this: A hummus “salad pocket” with a fresh fruit smoothie.

Liquid Planet. In addition to the smoothies that give Liquid Planet its name, the restaurant also offers salads, pitas and even pizza. Try this: For a twist on the traditional smoothie, try one of their oatmeal smoothies for a little extra fiber.

Treehugger’s Café. With a menu of almost entirely organic ingredients, your meal at Treehugger’s Café is sure to be fresh and local. The cafe also serves breakfast all day. Try this: The Marine Otter Marinated Bean Salad for a vegetarian and gluten free protein packed meal.

The Flaming Ice Cube. This all-vegan café was honored by VegNews magazine as having one of the best veggie burgers in the country. It also has a great selection of vegan baked goods. Try this: The veggie burger, of course!

With a little research and preparation, eating out doesn’t have to derail your diet — it can even help keep you on track. With most restaurants offering menus online, you can easily check out the selections at a new restaurant so you’ll know you’ll have choices that are healthy and delicious.

Have you tried any of the restaurants on our list? What’s your favorite healthy place to eat in the Cleveland area? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

The 3 Best Questions to Ask Your Child’s Doctor About Autism

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 14 May 2014 18:28:00 GMT

When you’re a new parent, there’s a lot to worry about. With the Centers for Disease Control’s latest estimate that 1 in 68 children fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, you probably have some concerns and questions.

You want to be an informed advocate for your child, and knowing the right questions to ask can go a long way. If your pediatrician is like most busy doctors, you won’t get a lot of face time to discuss all your concerns. In order to maximize the information you receive, it’s best to have a strategy in place.

Whether you simply want to know more about autism or have concerns that your child might be autistic, these three questions can help you “get to the point” with your child’s doctor so you can ensure maximize communications.

What signs and symptoms of autism should I look for? This question helps put some context behind a disorder that can take many different forms. If you find yourself overly concerned about your child’s chance of developing autism spectrum disorder, knowing what to look for can help put your mind at ease or prepare you to seek more information.
How is autism spectrum disorder diagnosed? Having a clear understanding of the necessary steps should your child exhibit symptoms of autism is important because it gives you a plan, should you need it. Knowing how doctors might be evaluating your child can help you understand more about the diverse nature of autism.
Can you recommend some good resources on autism? Since your time with your doctor is limited, you want to make sure you can access quality information after your appointment, rather than having to wade through internet inconsistencies. Giving yourself an outside resource can allow you to take more control over your child’s future.

Information is power and with the rising rates of autism, you want as much power as possible when it comes to your child’s health.

What are your biggest questions and concerns about autism? Let’s start a discussion in the comment section below.

Get Involved: The Lorain County Heart Walk

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 09 May 2014 15:20:00 GMT

If you want to make weekend plans that make a difference, look no further than the Lorain County Heart Walk taking place May 17 at Avon Commons (Click here for a map).

How Can You Get Involved?

Join a team! It’s not too late to get in on the fun. Check out the list of teams or start your own as a team captain. It’s free to register and attend the walk.
Raise money. Even if you can’t walk, you can still contribute. For every dollar raised, the American Heart Association gets THREE dollars back, so even small donations can make a big difference.
Attend. The Heart Walk itself starts at 9 a.m., but the festival starts at 8 a.m! Come and join in the fun, support the walkers and learn a little about taking care of your heart. You can even feel free to bring your dog, as long as they stay on a leash.

Get in The Spirit

The event includes a festival with a Sponsors’ Expo, bounce house and more. Stop by the North Ohio Heart table to meet staff and participate in giveaways - including a chance to win a Subway gift card just by getting your picture taken!

NOH leads the way in company fundraising, with nearly $13,000 raised as of May 7. Last year, the NOH team raised more than $30,000!

“So much of Lorain County is participating,” Lorain County Heart Walk representative Sarah Repasy said. “It speaks volumes about the community and how engaged they are.”

Local companies, sponsors and fundraising teams have also gotten in on the action by hosting awareness functions to better inform their employees about the importance of a healthy heart. The heart walk is quickly becoming more than just a walk—it’s a movement.

The event has a goal of raising $130,000 and they’re getting close. Heart disease touches so many lives, and the funds raised really make a difference. Lace up your walking shoes and show your support with us!

Don’t miss out! Join one of our North Ohio Heart teams (or start your own) and come walk with us at 9 a.m. May 17 in the Avon Commons.

Could Your Afternoon Nap Signal a Health Problem?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Thu, 08 May 2014 14:07:00 GMT

Closing your eyes for a quick afternoon nap can feel all too tempting some days. However, if you’re a woman who frequently experiences daytime sleepiness, your heavy eyelids might be symptomatic of something more serious.

A recent study completed at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University collected data from more than 84,000 women in the United States to draw their conclusion. The information was collected from information provided for the Nurses Health Study II from 2001-2009.

Five percent of the total group reported being sleepy during the day on an almost daily basis. The study found the women in this group were almost three times as likely to be diagnosed with heart disease as the women in the study who did not report frequent daytime sleepiness.

However, the connection between sleepiness and heart problems might be more symptomatic than the initial results of the study suggested. Daytime drowsiness is more likely to be a side effect of a poor night sleep, which can lead to higher blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes or depression. This suggests that the connection between desiring an afternoon nap and having a higher risk of heart disease is more circumstantial based on the quality of sleep experienced the night before.

So, what are some things you can do to improve your sleep habits? Here are a few quick tips.

3 Quick Tips for Getting a Better Night’s Sleep

Wind down. Avoid electronics and anything with a screen during the 30 minutes to an hour leading up to bed time.
Exercise. Keeping your body in better physical shape—and worn out from working hard!—can help you get a more restful night’s sleep.
Be consistent. Train your body for a certain time frame of sleep by going to bed and waking up at around the same time every day.

The bottom line? Your body needs sleep to function. Prolonged lack of sleep can lead to significant health problems that simply taking a quick afternoon power nap won’t be able to fix. If you’re concerned about your quality of sleep and what it might mean for your health, you should schedule an appointment to speak to your doctor.

For more tips on how to get a better night’s sleep, click here and download our free eBook.

3 Myths About Diabetes: Busted!

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Tue, 06 May 2014 12:30:00 GMT

Despite being incredibly common—over 25 million children and adults in the United States suffer from it—diabetes is a condition that is widely misunderstood and stigmatized. Yet, just as with most aspects of your health, the more you know, the better prepared you can be to reduce your risks of developing diabetes. To start you off on the right path toward being proactive, we’re busting three big myths you might have heard in the past.

Myth #1: It’s mostly overweight people who get diabetes.

Busted: There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes (also known as juvenile diabetes) is typically diagnosed in young children and has no correlation with body fat. While there is a correlation between body fat and Type 2 Diabetes, correlation does not yield causation. For instance, not all people with Type 2 are overweight and not all overweight people have Type 2 Diabetes.

Myth #2: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.

Busted: Like we mentioned above, being overweight is a contributing factor to developing Type 2 Diabetes. However, there are plenty of ways to gain weight and not eat much sugar. That doesn’t mean you should have all the sugar you want, though. Studies have linked sugary drink consumption with diabetes thanks to their ability to provide several hundred calories and high counts of sugar in just one serving.

Myth #3: People with diabetes can’t have sweets.

Busted: Just like everyone else, people with diabetes can have sweets in moderation when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. While it should make you more mindful of your sugar intake, a diabetes diagnosis is not a lifelong ban on sweets.

What other myths about diabetes do you often hear perpetuated? Were you surprised to learn any of the above weren’t true? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

5 Ways Technology Can Help You Take Control of Your Health

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

Managing your health can sometimes feel like a full-time job: eat this, don’t eat that, exercise this much, don’t get too much of this, make sure you get enough of that. Needless to say—it can be exhausting. Luckily we live in a world where there are technology tips and tricks to make just about any challenging aspect of your life easier, and your health is no exception.

Here are five ways technology can enable you to take your health into your own hands:

Access information. Thanks to the wealth of information online, it’s now easier than ever to find out answers to your health questions and concerns. While you should always be skeptical of information you find online (and it’s no substitute for talking to your doctor), staying educated can help prepare you to live your healthiest life.
Get active. Having trouble finding motivation to exercise? Start small with a basic fitness tracker, like a pedometer, and begin your new exercise regime by going on short walks every day. Some fitness trackers, like the FitBit, even have a community element that allows you to compete with your friends.
Track your nutrition. There are tons of free sites with extensive food databases that make tracking the nutrition of your meals easy and accessible. By knowing exactly where you stand in your daily nutrition, you can make smarter dietary choices that nourish your body. Check out SparkPeople, MyFitnessPal, or LoseIt!
Be your own advocate. Taking an active role in managing your health is as easy as signing in with North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group’s FollowMyHealth portal. You can make appointments, view your information and communicate with your doctor all from one easy-to-use location that can be accessed from your computer, smart phone, tablet or other device.
Get text reminders. You have a lot to keep track of, so let your doctor’s office do the work of reminding you when you need to schedule an appointment or reminding you when one is upcoming. Once you are registered for the FollowMyHealth portal you can request to receive text message reminders and never forget another appointment.

Ready to take control of your health today? Click here and follow the instructions to activate your FollowMyHealth portal today.

Should You Try Meatless Mondays?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

It’s a phenomenon you may have heard about: people all around the world are going meat-free on Mondays in an effort to start the week off on a healthy note. While contemporary Meatless Mondays was revamped in 2003 and taken global in 2009, the original movement goes all the way back to World War I.

A brief history of Meatless Mondays

Minimizing the consumption of staples like meat and wheat during World War I and II was observed by over 13 million families to aid in the war effort. In addition to Meatless Mondays, participants also did Wheatless Wednesdays. These days, the movement is much more about health and bringing awareness to illnesses that have a tie to a high consumption of meat. In addition to the United States, Meatless Mondays is an active movement in 28 other countries.

Why go meatless?

Though a well-rounded diet can certainly include meat, there are several benefits to going without one day a week.

Reduce your risk of cancer. Studies have shown that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower your cancer risk, and colon cancer has been specifically linked to red meat consumption.
Reduce your risk of heart disease. Some meats are higher in saturated fats, so replacing your consumption of meat with foods rich in polyunsaturated fats, like nuts, can help lower your risk of heart disease.
Lose weight. While avoiding meat one day a week likely won’t make a huge difference to your overall diet, it can help establish healthier habits that could lead to long term weight-loss benefits.
Help the environment. If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, going without meat for a day can make a big difference. According to the Meatless Monday website, the meat industry is responsible for one-fifth of man-made greenhouse gas emissions.

The bottom line

If you’re looking to make small changes in your diet that can add up considerably over time, going meatless for one day a week might be a good first step. However, bear in mind that, when prepared properly and with the right portions, meat can be part of a healthy diet. We’d also recommend checking out the official website for Meatless Monday for more information on the movement.

Have you ever tried Meatless Mondays? Share your experiences (and recipes!) in the comments section below.

10 Ideas to Get Your Kids Outside and Moving

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

Now that spring has finally sprung in most areas of the country, it’s time to dig out the sunscreen and enjoy some outside playtime with your kids. With all the tempting indoor distractions like television, video games and computers, encouraging outdoor activity is more important than ever. Here are 10 ideas to get your kids excited about playing outside.

Get a change of scenery. If your backyard isn’t all that interesting to your kids, consider heading to a nearby park or playground to change things up.
Meet up with friends. Nothing encourages active playtime more than the buddy system. Encourage your kids to join up with other neighborhood kids or invite a friend over after school.
Have a picnic. Make lunchtime an event by packing up a picnic basket and blanket and enjoying a side of sunshine with your meal. Your kids will enjoy the novelty of eating outside and will be more than ready to run around and get some exercise before the meal is over.
Splash around. While this might be best saved for warmer summer months, adding a water element to outdoor playtime is a sure-fire kid pleaser. Go to the pool, set up a sprinkler or visit a splash park.
Make it competitive. Appeal to your kids’ competitive side and encourage a friendly race or set up an obstacle course. Time the event and see if they can improve their time for round two.
Create a scavenger hunt. A simple list of nature’s treasures can get your kids outside and excited for a scavenger hunt. Give them the challenge of finding items like pine cones, acorns, flowers or rocks and see what they come up with.
Teach them a new game. Think back to your favorite outdoor game to play as a child. Was it Red Rover? Kick the Can? Freeze Tag? Teach your kids a new game and you’ll be handing them hours of entertainment. And don’t be shy—join in on the fun!
Encourage imagination. Outdoor make-believe games open up a whole world of options. Encourage your child to mimic a favorite book or movie character or “cook” up a pretend nature feast at their pretend nature restaurant.
Go on a journey. Grab bikes, scooters or rollerblades and take your kids on a trail ride. Having a destination will make the journey even more fun and you’ll all feel accomplished once you make it.
Join a sports team. Finding your child’s athletic passion can help set them up for a lifetime of healthy activity. Encourage them to try out different sports teams and see what suits them best.

How do you encourage your kids to get outside and get moving? Share your ideas in the comments below.

Could Weight Gained During Pregnancy Lead to Diabetes?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

Gaining weight during your pregnancy is important for the health and growth of your baby. However, continuing to gain weight after giving birth might have serious implications on a woman’s diabetes and heart health risks, according to a new study.

Now, new moms, before you start to panic, hear us out. There are already a lot of societal and personal pressures to lose weight after having a baby, so we certainly don’t intend to add to the struggle—not to mention you have a newborn to care for! However, being aware of your potential risk factors is important for leading a long and healthy life.

The study, which took place in Canada and was published by Diabetes Care, was led by Dr. Ravi Retnakaran of Mount Sinai Hospital and followed 305 pregnant women through birth and their first year post-partum. The 75% of the women who were able to lose some of their baby weight within the first year showed healthy test results, but it was a different story for the remaining 25%. Gaining weight after their pregnancies correlated with higher blood pressure, increased LDL cholesterol levels and increased resistance to insulin.

While the amount of weight a woman needs to lose isn’t specified, the researchers stressed that simply being on the path to making healthier life choices is what’s important. In fact, researchers are hopeful that their findings might actually alleviate the immediate pressure for mothers to lose weight quickly. The risk factors for the 25% of women who gained weight after giving birth didn’t show up during the first three months, suggesting the final nine months of the first year are key.

Remember, most studies require additional research for confirmation, but be sure to talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about your post-pregnancy weight gain. Taking care of your health and your new baby is a big job, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Are you overdue for a check-up with your doctor? Ready to make an appointment? Click here for easy access to your FollowMyHealth portal.

Tips for Eating Healthy When Eating Out

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 18 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

When you’re embarking on a new diet or lifestyle change, eating out can seem like dangerous territory. Portions at restaurants are often two to three times the amount you would usually put on your plate at home, and it’s hard to know exactly how things were prepared when it’s not in your own kitchen. Still, eating out is a social practice—and a treat! You shouldn’t have to sacrifice a dinner out with friends just because you want to eat healthy.

Ease your restaurant anxiety by preparing yourself to make good choices that will nourish your body. Here are our five best tips for eating healthy while eating out.

#1 - Plan ahead.

When you’re hungry and pressed to make a choice, it’s easy to lose sight of your nutritional goals. Luckily, most restaurants have their menus online. Before you go out for a meal, check out what your options are so you can be prepared to make a choice you can feel good about.

#2 - Split it up.

If you’re going to a restaurant that is well known for its oversized portions, see if one of your dining companions wants to split an entrée. Or, ask your server to bring a to-go box with your plate so you can portion out a healthier meal size before you even begin eating. That way, you won’t be tempted to overeat and you’ll have leftovers to enjoy the next day.

#3 - Find an app.

Yes, there is actually “an app for that.” Many of the popular nutrition tracker apps have large user-generated databases that include nutritional information from popular restaurants. If you’re planning on eating out, consider tracking your food to make sure you’re covering your nutritional bases. Check out apps from MyFitnessPal, LoseIt!, SparkPeople or WeightWatchers.

#4 - Skip the free appetizers.

Depending on the restaurant you’re attending, you can usually expect some kind of “free” appetizer—whether it’s a bread basket or chips and salsa. These bottomless baskets are often hard to turn down, but they can end up filling you up before the more nutritionally dense portion of your meal comes. If you don’t feel confident in your ability to limit yourself, ask your server not to bring any extras.

#5 - Make healthy swaps.

If an entrée comes with French fries or onion rings as a side, as your server if you can swap them for a side salad or vegetable. Most restaurants have options that can accommodate your nutritional goals without sacrificing the enjoyment of your meal.

Do you have any tips or tricks for eating healthy in a restaurant? Share your ideas in the comments section below.

Can You Calculate Your Heart Health Age?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

You’ve probably heard of calculations that determine your “fitness age,” or you’ve heard doctors indirectly reference your relative health age—“You have the lungs of a man half your age!”—but what about your heart health?

A new online calculator developed by the Joint British Societies (JBS) aims to help people determine their odds of having a heart attack, as well as when they might be most susceptible. While there have been similar calculators in the past, this new one takes into account short and long-term risks, which could enable the kind of awareness that leads people to make positive changes in their health.

The new calculator could also help doctors better assess courses of treatment. By having a more extensive picture of a patient’s heart health, they can identify who needs to be more closely monitored, who might need medication, and who needs to make immediate lifestyle changes.

In addition to the risk calculator, the study also made several recommendations for preventing cardiovascular disease. Most of them will look familiar: get enough exercise, eat properly, maintain a healthy weight and don’t smoke. However, by looking at long-term risk factors, the hope for more prevention is high. Plenty of patients who don’t test high for 10-year risk factors do have long-term risks that are worth recognizing.

How to Access the Calculator

While you should always make it a point to talk to your doctor about your heart health risks, you can find the new JBS calculator by clicking here. You’ll need to know certain information like your height, weight and systolic blood pressure to get your results.

Again, regardless of what the calculator tells you, maintaining regular check-ups with your doctor and discussing your risk factors are the most important things you can do for your heart health. While it’s great to use all types of tools for determining your heart health, there’s no substitute for a strong relationship with your doctor.

Do you want to have a better relationship with your cardiologist to make sure your heart stays healthy? Check out this video to learn how to build a relationship based on trust, compassion and communication.

How Exercise Affects Men’s and Women’s Hearts Differently

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 15:53:00 GMT

Last fall, we wrote this post about how you can find your target heart rate to make sure you’re getting the most out of your workout. We used the same formula that doctors use to find your maximum heart rate (220 – your age = Maximum Heartbeats per minute) and suggested you shoot for 50-85% of that rate when undertaking a cardio workout. The same formula is currently used to determine the level at which patients need to work out during the familiar treadmill stress test that evaluates their heart health.

However, a new study suggests that formula might be flawed because it fails to take into account how exercise can affect a woman’s heart differently from a man’s. Dr. Thomas Allison, director of stress testing at Mayo Clinic, led a team of researchers in a review of 25,000 stress tests. They found that peak heart rate declines more gradually with age in women than in men, which has led doctors to overestimate peak heart rate for younger women and underestimate it for older women.

What the study findings mean for YOU:

While the research is still considered preliminary, doctors may soon be adopting a new formula. Considering the formula was originally adapted based off of research that included very few women, it’s not surprising that additional knowledge has led to the need for a change. Dr. Allison and his researchers have suggested this new formula:

Women (age 40-89): 200 minus 67% of their age
Men: 216 minus 93% of their age

Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, director of women and heart disease at Lenox Hill Hospital, voiced her support in this article: “This is timely and we’ve needed it for a while. All of these differences are very important, not only for diagnosis, but also for teaching people how best to exercise to get the most cardiovascular fitness.”

While the stress test isn’t changing yet, researchers are learning more and more about how men and women’s hearts need to be treated individually. Be on the lookout for more news as further investigation continues. Do you use target heart rate when you exercise? Have you ever taken a stress test? Share your thoughts on the study’s findings in the comments section below.

Five Numbers to Help You Track Your Heart Health

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 18:30:00 GMT

Keeping track of your health can sometimes feel like a full time job. Do this, eat this, don’t do this, don’t eat this—all the recommendations are a lot to process. Often, it’s that feeling of being overwhelmed that keeps people from taking action toward a healthier lifestyle in the first place.

Monitoring your heart health doesn’t have to be that complicated. In fact, it can be broken down into just five numbers. They’re the same numbers doctors use to assess your risks of heart disease. Keeping track of them can allow you to be an advocate for your own health.

Blood Pressure. Your blood pressure is actually measured in two numbers—the systolic pressure, which is taken as the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure, which is taken as the heart relaxes. A healthy blood pressure is typically around or under 120/80. If your blood pressure is higher, talk to your doctor about what you can do to bring it down.
Blood Sugar. This is determined by how much glucose is in your bloodstream. High levels can cause diabetes and increase your risk of heart disease. A healthy blood sugar (usually taken after eight hours of fasting) is less than 100.
Body Mass Index. Your BMI is an important number to know because it compares your weight against your height, which helps you to know if you are a healthy weight for your frame. Ideally, you want a BMI between 18.5 and 25. Lower is considered underweight and higher is considered overweight. To calculate your BMI, visit the American Heart Association website.
Waist Circumference. We wrote in this post about how a tape measure can be a great tool to use in your quest for heart health because belly fat is a strong indicator of heart disease and diabetes. Measure your waist around your belly button and aim for less than 35 inches if you’re a woman and 40 inches if you’re a man.
Cholesterol. High cholesterol can lead to build-up in your arteries and seriously increase your risk of heart disease. It’s important to know your total cholesterol number as well as your LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which is considered the “bad” cholesterol. For a healthy cholesterol, aim for lower than 200 and lower than 100 for your LDL levels.

Do you know all five of your numbers? Are you surprised to see any of these numbers on this list? Tell us in the comments section.

Do You Have Your Heart Health Facts Straight?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 12:30:00 GMT

We spend a lot of time discussing the best ways to prevent or reduce your risk factors for heart disease. Between cleaning up your diet, getting more exercise and maintaining regular check-ups with your doctor…well, you’ve pretty much heard it all from us. However, there’s one important tool we sometimes overlook because it’s so simple— awareness.

Despite the prevalence of heart disease, many Americans don’t know the facts about how to protect themselves. A survey conducted by the Cleveland Clinic asked several questions about heart disease to 1,000 participants from around the country. The results revealed substantial inconsistencies between the facts and what people believe.

To see how your knowledge stacks up against the survey results, here are some of the most commonly misunderstood facts.

Heart Health Facts: Did You Know?

There is no existing “heart disease gene.” (59% of survey respondents thought there was.)
Jaw pain, excessive fatigue and difficulty sleeping are all signs of heart disease. (Only 30% of participants knew these symptoms.)
Exercise can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease by half. (Only 50% of survey respondents knew this.)
Bread products are typically the biggest source of dietary sodium in the average American diet. (76% did not realize this; in fact, a third of survey takers guessed that cheese was the main source.)
Taking vitamins does not lower cholesterol or improve heart health, according to the American Heart Association. (44% of participants believed vitamins lowered cholesterol and 61% believed they improved heart health.)
Forty percent of people have a family history of heart disease, but a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk factors. (25% of respondents who have a family history of heart disease revealed they were doing nothing to reduce their risk.)

The more you know about risk factors and prevention, the more proactive you can be in assessing your own heart health risks. In the case of heart disease, knowledge really is power.

What are some other heart health facts you’ve been surprised by in the past? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Some Good News in the Fight Against Childhood Obesity

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 12:30:00 GMT

It’s well-known that childhood obesity is a big problem in America, but the latest news is something to cheer about: The obesity rates for children ages 2 to 5 have dropped 43% in the last decade.

A February report from the Center for Disease Control showed a 14% drop from 2003-2004, to just over 8% is 2011-2012, to represent a total drop of 43%. This shift might be attributed to First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign, which specifically targets childhood obesity and nutrition in the school system. In a statement, Mrs. Obama said, “I am thrilled at the progress we’ve made in the last few years in obesity rates among our youngest Americans…healthier habits are beginning to become the new norm.”

However, as promising as these numbers might be, the rates for older children aren’t nearly as encouraging. According to the same CDC report, 18% of children ages 6-11 are still obese, with that number rising to 20.5% for children 12 to 19.

Even with the dramatic decrease for younger children, obesity rates are still at historic highs. But while the fight is certainly far from over, the latest CDC findings are worth celebrating. With change taking place among the youngest generation, health officials hope it represents a shift in how parents are approaching healthy eating. The CDC speculates that the decreased rates for younger children are due in part to a transition away from sugary drinks and an increase in the number of mothers who are breastfeeding.

The CDC identifies families and schools as two huge influencing factors of childhood health and eating habits. Highlighting schools in particular, the CDC recommends schools play a critical role in the prevention of childhood obesity by offering a safe place to learn and practice healthy habits.

Are you surprised to hear obesity rates are down among the youngest children? What other prevention tactics do you think need to be employed? Discuss in the comments section below.

Does Having Diabetes Increase Your Risk of Stroke?

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Tue, 25 Mar 2014 18:01:00 GMT

The findings in a new study indicate that diabetes increases your risk of having a stroke—but only if you’re a woman.

Women represented 60% of stroke deaths in 2010, according to the study. Researchers at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La., collected data from nearly 11,000 men and more than 19,000 women. Over the course of seven years, there were 3,000 strokes among the participants.

The study found women were 19-42 % more likely to suffer from a stroke if they had diabetes. The large range of percentages is affected by how well women with diabetes controlled their blood sugar levels. The risk of having a stroke increases significantly for women with diabetes over the age of 55. This could be due to the loss of protective estrogen in menopausal women, which opens the door for diseases like diabetes to attack the arteries.

There was no link between diabetes and strokes for men, but further investigation is needed, according to the authors of the study. One cause might be an increased likelihood for men to receive preventive treatment and medication for improved artery health.

In addition to lobbying to correct this disparity, the authors also recommended more aggressive blood sugar treatments and closer monitoring of risk factors for women with diabetes.

While the study offered no concrete conclusions and warrants further study, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your own risk factors. If you are a woman with diabetes, particularly if you’re over the age of 55, be sure to talk with your doctor about managing your diabetes and other risk factors for stroke.

Are you surprised by the link between diabetes and stroke? Are you even more surprised that this link is only suspected in women? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.

The Facts and FAQs Behind Varicose Vein Laser Treatments

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 13:52:00 GMT

Once you’ve made the decision to seek treatment for your varicose veins, there are a few options to consider. If your varicose veins aren’t too severe, simple changes like losing weight, improving your hygiene or wearing support stockings can make a difference. However, more serious cases require more serious treatment.

For many years, surgery was one of the better options for sufferers of varicose veins. Typically involving tying off a vein or removing parts of a vein through small incisions, the surgery was minimally invasive, but tending to have fairly lengthy recovery times.

However, regardless of how small the surgery to treat varicose veins might be, it’s still surgery requiring anesthesia. Luckily—and thanks to the advancement of medical lasers—patients now have another option for treating their painful and potentially dangerous varicose veins.

Endovenous Laser Treatment involves inserting a thin laser into the vein. Since that might sound intimidating, we broke down a few frequently asked questions to put your mind at ease.

Will it hurt?

No. Patients have described feeling a funny or unfamiliar sensation, but the laser treatment is not painful.

How long will it take?

Usually just about 45 minutes.

What’s the recovery like?

You should be back to your usual activities in one to two days.

Do I have to be put under?

The procedure requires only a local anesthesia.

Will my insurance cover it?

Varicose veins are recognized as a medical condition, so many insurance companies are covering the procedure. Just make sure your doctor checks with your insurance company and receives preauthorization prior to your procedure to avoid unexpected costs.

If you have more questions about varicose vein treatment, check out our free download of the Top Eight Questions about varicose vein treatment.

Five Smartphone Apps for a Healthy Heart

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:26:00 GMT

You’ve seen the commercials—whatever your problem may be, there’s an app for that, and your health is no exception. Now you can put your smart phone to use for more than just texting and social media and instead use it to the advantage of your health.

Whether it’s helping to keep your healthy habits on track, like eating well and exercising, or tracking your own heart health risk factors to stay on top of your cardiovascular health, these are five apps that can have positive affects on your life much more significant than a tip calculator or a game of Words With Friends.

Smartphone Apps You Should Check Out for a Healthier You

Heart Failure Trials: For the research buff concerned with the latest in cardiovascular health news, Heart Failure Trials is a dream come true. This app, which earned five stars in the app store, keeps users up to date on the latest research and clinical trials. It costs $2.99 and is for both Apple and Android products.
Heart Health Mobile: This app tracks users medical background to provide detailed concerns about risk factors involved in your history. By knowing your risk factors, you can also begin taking steps to lower them, which will also be reflecting in the app as your data evolves. Free, but available to Apple users only.
Stress Test: We all know that reducing stress in your life also reduces the amount of stress in your heart—however, reducing stress can be easier said than done. That is, until the Stress Test app. It uses your phone’s camera and light features to track your heart rate, which can help you determine causes for stress and proper reactions to have. Costs $1.99 for Apple, but free to Android.
HeartWise Blood Pressure Tracker: Track your blood pressure over weeks, months or even years to keep an eye on your risk factors. This app even allows you to upload things like caffeine intake to make sure it isn’t having an effect on your reading. Costs $0.99 for iPhone.
CathMaps: Since not every hospital has a Cath Lab, this app takes your cardiac history into account and finds you the closest hospital that fits your needs.

Have you tried any of these apps before? Share your experiences in the comments section below.

Four Ancient Grains to Add to Your Diet

North Ohio Heart | Ohio Medical Group — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 14:29:00 GMT

When you consider adding more healthy grains to your diet, your mind likely goes to staples like wheat or rice. Despite there being 19 different types of whole grains, most Americans only regularly eat just a few. If you’re looking to shake up your heart healthy grain eating routine, consider trying these four ancient grains for more variety and health benefits.

Bulgur. This grain is actually just the remains of traditional whole-wheat grains that have been partially cooked through a steaming and drying process. Since it’s already partially cooked, bulgur makes a quick and easy nutritious addition to a meal. Health-wise, bulgur packs a big fiber punch—18 grams per serving—and is also low in sodium, which can help to prevent high blood pressure. If you’re trying to lose weight, bulgur is also low in fat and calories.
Millet. Naturally gluten free, millet is also high in fiber and protein, making it a good option for vegetarians. For people with sensitivity to gluten and other grains, millet might be a great option—it’s an alkaline food, which means it’s more easily digestible for sensitive stomachs. Thanks to rich levels of magnesium and niacin, millet can also help lower your risk of heart attack and your blood pressure.
Barley. Closely resembling rice in taste and texture, barley is known for helping lower cholesterol and promoting a healthy digestive track due to high levels of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. It is also associated with reduced coronary heart disease risks and is rich in potassium and calcium.
Quinoa. Probably the most popular of the four, quinoa has become a bit of a health craze in the last year or two, and it’s easy to see why. Though it’s technically a seed and not a grain, quinoa is consider a “superfood” thanks to being packed with protein and all the essential amino acids, cholesterol free, and full of fiber and antioxidants.

What’s your favorite type of grain to cook with? Share your favorite heart healthy recipes in the comments section below.