Author: admin

2018-02-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – For most of us, a little evening downtime is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. After a hectic day of work, commutes, kids and dinner prep, we deserve to take a moment to slow down and enjoy some hard-earned “me time.”

Instead of using this time to stream your favorite show or scroll through social media, try a gentle and relaxing activity that puts your focus on the present moment and makes this time truly enjoyable.

“For a relaxing end-of-day activity, there’s nothing quite like preparing and savoring the perfect cup of herbal tea,” says Stephen Twining, whose family founded the world-famous tea brand, Twinings of London, in 1706.

The steps we take to prepare and enjoy our perfect cup of tea can help us unwind and feel refreshed, Twining says. Tea releases pleasing scents, the warm brew makes comforting sensations as we wrap our fingers around the mug and take sips, and there’s the deep and satisfying flavors of the tea itself.

Of course, when we’re engaged in a mindful activity, it’s that much easier to let go of daily stress and transition into a more relaxed state. Follow these five tips from Twining to brew your favorite cup of herbal tea, and try making this a part of your end-of-day ritual.

1. Start fresh: The perfect cup of tea starts with a clean mug and a clean kettle of fresh, cold water. Never reuse water that’s already been boiled, because that can weaken the tea’s flavor, Twining says.

2. Don’t over-boil: As soon as the water reaches a boil, it’s time to remove the kettle from the heat source.

“I never let the water over-boil because in doing so, you will cause the oxygen in the water to be reduced, making the tea taste ‘flat,’” Twining says. For that reason, he recommends not using a microwave to boil the water.

3. Savor the moment: Set the tea bag in the mug before you add hot water, pouring it directly onto the tea bag. Just then, it starts releasing its herbal scent, so make sure you take a moment to inhale and relax while enjoying the aroma. Twinings offers a range of herbal teas each expertly blended to provide the perfect balance of taste, flavor and aroma. For example, Buttermint has a refreshing blend of peppermint leaves combined with the creamy flavor of vanilla for a smooth taste and rich aroma, perfect for helping you unwind.

4. Wait for the perfect flavor: Many people make the mistake of thinking that once the brew darkens, it’s ready to drink. However, Twining says color merely washes off the tea leaves early in the process, so don’t let the appearance mislead you. To make sure the flavors fully develop, know how much time your tea needs to brew, and keep an eye on the clock. Herbal teas should steep for a full four minutes.

5. Customize and enjoy: Hopefully, you will find your perfectly brewed cup of herbal tea needs no embellishment because the expertly blended herbs and flowers will provide all the flavor you need. But as Twining says, “The best cup of tea is the one you like the most,” so feel free to make adjustments. The recommended add-ins for herbal teas are honey, sugar or a squeeze of lemon — do not add milk or cream. For a deeper flavor, let the tea steep a minute or two longer.

After a long day, you definitely earned this moment, so make sure you take time to enjoy it. If you’re interested in exploring Twinings’ complete line of herbal teas, visit twiningsusa.com.

2018-02-06T06:01:01

(BPT) – Chest discomfort. Heartburn. Tightness or pressure in the throat, jaw, shoulder, abdomen, back or arm. These are all symptoms of a common heart disease called obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as a blockage in the heart arteries. And it can be deadly. In fact, it often is.

Given how serious a disease this is, you need to know your options for an accurate diagnosis. There’s new evidence for a simple blood test that can help your doctor determine whether your symptoms are due to heart disease or something else, like heartburn caused by a spicy meal, anxiety due to stress, or a pulled muscle in the upper chest area. An emerging field of medical research called cardiovascular genomics has given doctors a new way to discover whether their patients’ symptoms are caused by obstructive CAD just by looking at a patient’s blood sample.

A recent substudy of the Duke University-run National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-funded PROMISE trial^[1] gave further evidence that this simple blood test can be used to help doctors determine whether obstructive CAD is the cause of patients’ symptoms as well as to provide information about the potential for future heart disease events.

The test (known as the Corus CAD^® blood test) incorporates age, sex and gene expression measurements into a single score that indicates a person’s current likelihood of having a significant blockage or narrowing in their heart arteries. Unlike a genetic test, which provides information about a patient’s future risk of disease, this test provides the likelihood of plaque buildup in the arteries right when the testing is done.

Dr. Andrew Waxler of Berks Cardiologists Ltd. tells us that “Heart disease is not only the number one killer in the U.S., it is also incredibly expensive. The traditional and common tests and procedures doctors use, including heart catheterizations, are expensive, though these are very valuable tools when used with the right people. The beauty of this simple blood test is it’s not very expensive, relatively speaking, and it will direct who needs the more expensive and more risky tests, and who doesn’t. This is a good thing because fewer invasive tests mean fewer risks to the patient, including surgery complications and radiation exposure.”

“In these current health care economic times, people don’t want to pay for unneeded tests. With proper use I feel this simple blood test will help us all save money in the long run while helping doctors determine the best treatment path for each individual patient. It’s a win-win for all involved,” adds Dr. Waxler.

This simple blood test is scored on a scale of 1-40. Those with low scores, defined as ≤ 15, can be safely assessed as having symptoms not caused by CAD, whereas patients with higher scores have a higher likelihood of obstructive CAD. A low score means the patient may be spared invasive and potentially risky cardiac tests and procedures, while those with high scores may require more testing.

If you are concerned about the symptoms of obstructive CAD, talk with your doctor.

For more information about the blood test, visit coruscad.com.

Fast Facts

• One in seven deaths among Americans is caused by CAD.^[2]
• A simple blood test called Corus CAD helps doctors identify patients who are at low risk so that unnecessary and potentially harmful cardiac tests can be avoided, as well as those at high risk so appropriate next steps can be taken.
• This simple blood test (Corus CAD) offers potential costs savings to the patient as well as to health insurance companies as it can help reduce unnecessary tests and procedures, which are often more costly.

2018-02-06T09:59:01

(BPT) – Bipolar I disorder is a condition that equally affects men and women, regardless of age, race, or ethnicity.¹ Approximately 1.5 million adults in America are living with this disease, yet it’s a condition that’s still chronically misunderstood and often misdiagnosed.² In fact, people with bipolar disorder may struggle an average of 10 years before they receive an accurate diagnosis.¹ That’s why knowing and understanding the symptoms is so important.

“One of the biggest difficulties with diagnosis is the wide variety of ways in which the disorder can manifest itself,” said Gary Sachs, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. “Although every person with bipolar I disorder can experience it differently, these experiences do include features that fall into specific categories of identifiable symptoms.”

Whether you’re someone who has a history of mental illness or are concerned about a loved one who is struggling with their mental health, Dr. Sachs sheds light on bipolar I disorder and answers some important questions to help you better understand this condition.

What is bipolar I disorder?

Bipolar I disorder is a brain and behavioral disorder that causes unusual changes in mood, activity levels, energy, and judgment, impacting a person’s ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.³ Everyone has typical ups and downs, but in bipolar I disorder these can be more extreme. People diagnosed with bipolar I disorder have periods called “mood episodes,” which can be either manic, hypomanic, depressive, or mixed.³ Every patient experiences episodes differently, but it’s important to note that bipolar I patients have had at least one manic or mixed episode. When managing their condition, patients should keep an open dialogue with their healthcare providers.⁴

Can you tell me more about what it means to experience mania?

Many people know what it means to be depressed, but fewer understand mania. Someone experiencing manic symptoms of bipolar I disorder may have periods of unusually elevated feelings like extreme happiness, energy, or irritability. Some symptoms of manic episodes may include³:

• Feeling unusually happy, excited, or energetic
• Feeling restless, irritable, wired, or overreactive
• Having racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating
• Poor judgment with risk taking, indulging in impulsive behaviors, and having a heightened sense of self-importance

What does it mean to experience a mixed episode? Is it common?

Someone with bipolar I disorder can have a mixed episode when experiencing symptoms of mania and depression at the same time. Mixed episodes are more common than you may think. In fact, 40% of people living with bipolar I disorder have experienced a mixed episode, sometimes called a “mixed state.”⁵ Some of these symptoms include³:

• Feeling overly energized, while feeling very hopeless
• Feeling agitated, while having extreme changes in appetite, and having suicidal thoughts
• Having racing thoughts, while feeling “slowed down” or experiencing a loss of interest in something once enjoyed

Can you treat bipolar I disorder?

There is no known cure for bipolar I disorder, but symptoms may be managed through treatment. It is important for patients to partner with their healthcare providers, so that, together, they can determine an appropriate treatment plan. This may include counseling, support groups, and medicine. In fact, recently approved atypical antipsychotics have provided additional options to help people living with bipolar I disorder.

VRAYLAR^® (cariprazine) is a once-a-day prescription medicine that’s FDA-approved in adults for the acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder.⁶ In clinical studies, VRAYLAR^® was proven to help manage manic symptoms in adults with manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. VRAYLAR^® showed significant improvement in overall manic symptoms compared to those who took a placebo (sugar pill). VRAYLAR^® was not studied to measure symptoms individually, and is not approved to treat hypomania, depression, or depressive symptoms.

Every patient experiences symptoms differently and not all patients respond to treatment in the same way. That’s why it’s important for patients suffering from bipolar I disorder to actively engage with their healthcare provider to determine which treatment path is appropriate for them.

IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about VRAYLAR?

VRAYLAR may cause serious side effects, including:

• Stroke (which can be fatal) in elderly people with dementia
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Call your healthcare provider right away if you have high fever; stiff muscles; confusion; changes in pulse, heart rate, or blood pressure; or sweating. These can be symptoms of a rare but potentially fatal side effect called NMS. VRAYLAR should be stopped if you have NMS
• Tardive dyskinesia (TD): Tell your healthcare provider if you cannot control the movements of your face, tongue, or other body parts. These could be signs of a serious and sometimes permanent side effect called TD. Risk of developing TD and the chance that it will become permanent are thought to increase the longer a person takes the medicine and the more medicine a person takes over time. TD can develop even after a person has been taking the medicine for a short time at low doses. TD may partially or completely go away if you stop taking VRAYLAR. TD may also start after you stop taking VRAYLAR
• Late-occurring side effects: VRAYLAR stays in the body for several weeks, even after you stop taking it, which could affect the timing of when you may experience side effects. Tell your healthcare provider if you have side effects (eg, uncontrolled movements of the body and face, muscle stiffness, or feelings of restlessness) as these may occur several weeks after starting or increasing dose of VRAYLAR
• Problems with your metabolism, such as:
  • High blood sugar and diabetes: If you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (eg, being overweight or family history of diabetes), your blood sugar should be tested before you start VRAYLAR and regularly during treatment. Complications of diabetes can be serious and even life threatening. Tell your healthcare provider if you have symptoms such as feeling very thirsty or very hungry, urinating more than usual, or feeling weak
  • Increased blood cholesterol or triglycerides: Your healthcare provider should check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels before and during treatment
  • Weight gain: Weight gain has been reported with VRAYLAR. Your healthcare provider should check your weight before and regularly during treatment
• Low white blood cell count: Low white blood cell counts have been reported with antipsychotic drugs, including VRAYLAR. This may increase your risk of infection. Very low white blood cell counts, which can be fatal, have been reported with other antipsychotics
• Decreased blood pressure: You may feel lightheaded or faint when you rise too quickly from a sitting or lying position
• Falls: VRAYLAR may increase risk of falls, which could cause fractures or other injuries
• Seizures
• Impaired judgment, thinking, and motor skills: Do NOT drive or use dangerous machinery until you know how VRAYLAR affects you. VRAYLAR may make you drowsy
• Increased body temperature: VRAYLAR may make you more sensitive to heat. You may have trouble cooling off. Be careful when exercising or when doing things likely to cause dehydration or make you warm
• Difficulty swallowing: VRAYLAR and medicines like it have been associated with difficulty swallowing

Who should not take VRAYLAR?

Do not take VRAYLAR if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Get emergency medical help if you are having an allergic reaction (eg, rash, itching, hives, swelling of the tongue, lip, face or throat).

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking VRAYLAR?

Tell your healthcare provider about any medical conditions and if you have or have had:

• Diabetes or high blood sugar in you or your family
• High levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, or LDL-cholesterol; or low levels of HDL-cholesterol
• Seizures or conditions that increase your risk for seizures
• Low or high blood pressure
• Low white blood cell count

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, or if you plan to become pregnant. Using VRAYLAR in the third trimester may cause uncontrolled movements of the body and face, muscle stiffness, or feelings of restlessness and/or withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies. A special program (National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics) collects information on the safety of antipsychotic drugs, including VRAYLAR, during pregnancy. For information, contact the program at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://www.womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines that you take or have recently taken, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements. VRAYLAR may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how VRAYLAR works.

What are the most common side effects of VRAYLAR?

• The most common side effects were uncontrolled movements of the body and face, muscle stiffness, vomiting, indigestion, sleepiness, and restlessness.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all possible side effects of VRAYLAR.

Please also see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning, which are also available at www.vraylar.com and https://www.allergan.com/assets/pdf/vraylar_pi.

References

1. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Bipolar Disorder Statistics. Available at: http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=education_statistics_bipolar_disorder. Accessed January 31, 2018.
2. National Institute of Mental Health. Bipolar Disorder Among Adults. Available at https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/prevalence/bipolar-disorder-among-adults.shtml. Accessed January 31, 2018.
3. National Institute of Mental Health. Bipolar Disorder. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml. Accessed January 31, 2018.
4. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
5. Muneer, A. Mixed States in Bipolar Disorder: Etiology, Pathogenesis and Treatment. Chonnam Medical Journal. 2017 Jan; 53(1): 1–13. doi: 10.4068/cmj.2017.53.1.1.
6. VRAYLAR^® (cariprazine) [package insert]. Irvine, CA: Allergan USA, Inc.; 2017.

Allergan^® and its design are trademarks of Allergan, Inc.

VRAYLAR^® and its design are registered trademarks of Forest Laboratories Holdings Ltd., an Allergan affiliate.

Licensed from Gedeon Richter Plc.

© 2018 Allergan. All rights reserved.

VRA112771_v2 02/18

2018-02-08T10:31:00

(BPT) – Even though vaccines are one of the greatest health innovations of the last century, a new survey shows that among some adults in America there is a lack of awareness about the immunizations they need as adults.

According to an online survey of 1,000 American adults aged 18 years and older, there is a critical gap between awareness and action when it comes to vaccination.¹

Adults should talk to their healthcare providers about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s list of recommended adult vaccines. The best way to protect yourself and those closest to you is to vaccinate for life. So, ask your doctor if you are up to date on all your vaccines. It’s a simple step that can help protect you, your family and your community.

Nearly half of adults consider themselves to be “very” or “quite” knowledgeable about vaccines,² yet fewer than three in ten Americans are aware of the vaccines recommended for adults their age.¹

Most of us are familiar with the importance of vaccination during childhood; however, vaccination is equally important throughout adulthood, as the immune system begins to decline with age.³ Immunosenescence, also known as age-related decline in immunity, significantly contributes to the susceptibility of older adults to serious, yet preventable conditions including: influenza, pneumonia and shingles.³ Despite this, 65 percent of adults are not fully up to date on their vaccines.¹

Six million deaths are prevented globally each year as a result of vaccination. If global vaccination rates increased, even more deaths could be prevented.⁴

Vaccine-preventable diseases can cause long-term illness and even death. In fact, 99 percent of the more than 50,000 deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases that occur every year in the U.S. are in adults.⁵

Vaccination can also protect against other health problems. In fact, vaccinating against the flu can also help protect people against heart attacks and stroke.⁶

Despite longstanding recommendations for the use of many vaccines, adult vaccination rates remain low. In 2015, the flu vaccination rate for adults aged 19 and older was less than 45 percent, Tdap (Tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) vaccination rate for adults was only about 23 percent, and shingles vaccination rate for adults 60 and older was just about 31 percent.⁷

Medical costs related to vaccine-preventable diseases in older adults are high and are expected to grow substantially in the coming years. One study forecasts U.S. medical costs for Americans 65 and older in the Medicare population to be $4.74 billion annually by 2030 for just one vaccine-preventable disease.⁸

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¹ Vaccinate for Life consumer survey. Exploration based on Q9. Which of the following statements best describes how up-to-date you consider yourself to be on vaccinations. I am aware of the vaccines recommended to adults of my age and have received all of these recommended vaccinations. Total base all respondents n=1000.

2018-02-08T10:32:00

(BPT) – Think of South Africa, and images of majestic savannas and roaming wildlife come to mind. A South African safari is an unforgettable experience, but no visit to the country is truly complete without a cultural immersion. The vibrant city of Durban combines the best of both worlds. Located along the Indian Ocean coast an hour from Johannesburg by air, Durban offers an eclectic array of activities where you can explore the city’s significant role in world history, the rich heritage of its Zulu people, and innumerable natural wonders — from the beach to the bush.

Experience authentic Zulu culture

Named for its dramatic surrounding landscape, the Valley of 1,000 Hills has been home to the Zulu people, South Africa’s largest ethnic group, for centuries.

Visitors can take an organized tour deep into tribal lands to experience Zulu culture with its exuberant ceremonies, traditional music and dancing. You’ll learn about Zulu beliefs and healing practices, break bread with local families and learn the hidden meanings behind their colorful beadwork. You can even arrange one-on-one sessions with the village healer or spend the night with a Zulu family in their home.

Walk in Gandhi’s and Mandela’s footsteps

Not everyone is aware that Mahatma Gandhi’s life work was inspired by his experiences in Durban. In 1893, he arrived as a young lawyer, and the discrimination he witnessed personally and against his fellow Indians drove him to start his worldwide movement of passive resistance fighting for the rights of the Indian population. At the Phoenix Settlement, you will see Gandhi’s house and the printing press he used to publish his newspaper, The Indian Opinion. Many of the more than one million Indians living in the city make the pilgrimage to this historical site alongside visitors from around the world.

Five years after his death, Nelson Mandela remains South Africa’s most revered public figure. 2018 marks a year-long celebration of his life and what would have been his 100th birthday on July 18. Honor his work when you’re in Durban by visiting the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, at the exact spot where he began his “Long Walk to Freedom” after being arrested for anti-Apartheid activism in 1952. Visit the striking monument and educational exhibition walking you through Mandela’s life and role in establishing a democratic South Africa.

Hit the beach at Umhlanga Rocks

Umhlanga Rocks, Durban’s laidback beach village, is on a picturesque stretch of the Indian Ocean. It beckons visitors with a scenic promenade passing by local landmarks including Umhlanga Lighthouse and Whale Bone Pier. A walkable downtown makes dining and nightlife easily accessible from the area’s many boutique hotels and guesthouses, and opportunities to get on the water abound — from surfing to deep sea fishing, scuba diving, whale watching and kiteboarding.

Discover an underwater wonderland

Consistently rated one of the top warm water diving and snorkeling sites in the world, Aliwal Shoal is also the spot to get up close and personal with blacktip reef sharks. Those brave enough can swim or dive alongside these mysterious creatures in the open ocean, but viewing from inside a cage is always an option.

Experience a Big Five safari

Back on land, the South African bush is less than four hours away by car. Private game reserves offer high-end safari lodge accommodations, minimal crowds and optimal chances for getting the perfect photos of the “Big Five” — elephants, rhinos, water buffalo, lions and leopards. In iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hippos, crocodiles, pelicans and flamingos roam Lake St. Lucia, while elephants, giraffes and leopards inhabit the adjacent grasslands.

Visit www.durbanexperience.co.za to learn more.

2018-02-08T16:01:00

(BPT) – The ability to see is one of our most precious gifts. Like most things in life, our vision may be impacted as we age. That’s why it’s important to learn about Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Prevalent among older Americans, it affects one in five adults age 65 and older, and is the leading cause of blindness for this population. While there is no cure for this condition, there are steps that you can take to help reduce the risk of progression, including:

1) Schedule routine eye exams. As early stages of AMD may not present any symptoms, you may not think to consult your eye doctor. Keeping routine eye exams that include eye dilation may help to identify the condition early, as well as help maintain overall eye health.

2) Address symptoms immediately. See your eye care professional right away if you experience sudden or gradual changes in vision quality. As AMD progresses, straight lines may appear distorted, central vision may look dark, blurry or white, or changes in color perception may become noticeable. If you have been diagnosed with AMD, you should also regularly check your eyes with an Amsler grid tool that helps track incremental vision changes.

3) Lead a healthy lifestyle. If you smoke, quit. Regular exercise can also help to maintain eye health and minimize the risk of progression. Other risk factors for AMD include obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

4) Eat right. A diet rich in green, leafy vegetables as well as healthy fatty acids may also help reduce the risk of progression. Foods that contain these nutrients include: spinach, kale, broccoli, cabbage, romaine and chard, and fatty fish such as salmon, sea bass, herring, whitefish, mackerel, anchovies and sardines.

5) Consider supplements recommended by the National Eye Institute. If you’ve been diagnosed with moderate to advanced AMD, The National Eye Institute recommends taking a specific nutrient formula based on the AREDS 2 study, that may help reduce your risk of progression. Talk with your doctor to see if an AREDS 2 formula eye vitamin is right for you.

To raise awareness of this public health issue, Bausch + Lomb, in collaboration with Prevent Blindness, the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight, has launched the Why Eye Fight campaign.

To learn more about AMD, what steps you can take to help fight for your sight or to watch the patient stories or PSA, visit www.WhyEyeFight.com. You can also join the online conversation and share your story using #WhyEyeFight on Facebook and Twitter.

2018-02-13T06:01:00

(BPT) – Recent research is giving the 86 percent of Americans who sit all day at their jobs new reasons to reach for a handful of nuts while at work, and in particular, pistachios. Adding to an increasing volume of research around the health benefits of pistachios, one study and a national survey in the U.S. suggest a snack of pistachios might boost brain power and concentration levels at work.

Pistachios helped office workers stay focused until lunchtime

In a national survey, 1,000 American office workers who skipped breakfast consumed a snack of 42 grams (1 and 1/2 serving size) of pistachios between 9 and 11 a.m. Ninety-two percent of the participants said they are “distracted from their tasks at work due to hunger before lunch.” Eighty percent said they usually get hungry in the mornings before lunch and think about food often or every day.

The midmorning snack of pistachios proved to be just what they needed to power through the morning. Ninety-two percent of the participants reported the pistachio snack helped improve their concentration at work as stated in the study, “somewhat or greatly.”

That’s not surprising, according to Dr. Mike Roussell, nutrition expert and adviser. “Skipping breakfast is never a good idea, but even with a good breakfast and lunch, hunger pangs and stress-driven hunger can be distracting, leading to unhealthy snacking habits.”

Roussell says pistachios are an ideal midmorning or midafternoon snack because of their unique nutrient package that not only promotes feelings of fullness and satiation, but also, newer studies show, can promote an optimal mental state and more focus at work.

Increasingly, people with desk jobs are looking for a healthier snack alternative to the usual donuts and vending machine fare. Ninety percent of the survey’s participants said they believe the snack of pistachios is healthier than their usual snack. The study involved office workers in the Northeast, South, Midwest and Western U.S. who snack at their desk two or more times a week at midmorning.

Pistachios may have a role in improved brain function

Loma Linda University (LLU) researchers found that eating nuts on a regular basis enhances brainwave frequencies associated with cognition, learning, memory, recall and other key brain functions. While the research studied multiple nuts, pistachios produced the greatest gamma wave response, which is critical for enhancing cognitive processing, information retention, learning and perception.

In the study, electroencephalograms (EEG) were taken to measure the strength of brainwave signals. EEG wave band activity was then recorded from nine regions of the scalp associated with cerebral cortical function.

“This study provides significant beneficial findings by demonstrating that nuts are as good for your brain as they are for the rest of your body,” said the study’s principal investigator, Lee Berk, DrPH, MPH, associate dean for research at the LLU School of Allied Health Professions, in an interview featured in the November 2017 issue of LLU’s publication, Today. An abstract of the study was presented at Experimental Biology 2017 in San Diego, California, and published in the FASEB Journal.

The workplace-snacking survey and health-benefit studies add to a growing base of pistachio research, solidifying that pistachios have all the ideal qualities for a go-to workplace snack.

2018-02-13T15:07:00

(BPT) – Like millions of Americans, your loved one may be living in a bad relationship this Valentine’s Day — the relationship between diabetes and their heart. People with type 2 diabetes are up to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than people without diabetes. Yet, over half of Americans with type 2 diabetes are unaware of this link as they celebrate the holiday with those they cherish most. In fact, people with type 2 diabetes spend 1,000 percent more time planning for Valentine’s Day than talking to their doctor about their heart disease risk.

But, this year, caregivers who have joined the For Your SweetHeart^® movement are making sure their sweethearts with type 2 diabetes know their risk and take action. Here are five ways to support and celebrate your sweetheart, so they can be around for a long time:

1. Have a heart-to-heart with your loved ones

Don’t wait to open up to those you love. Award-winning actress Angela Bassett had a heart-to-heart with her uncle Ralph, who has type 2 diabetes, about managing his risk for heart disease. Bassett learned about the connection between the two conditions after her mom, Ralph’s sister, died of heart disease related to her type 2 diabetes. “For my mom, this knowledge came too late. But the good news is the sooner you know your risk, the more you and your doctor can do about it,” Bassett said. You can find tips for talking to your sweetheart about their risk on ForYourSweetHeart.com.

2. Know the facts

Over 80 percent of adults with type 2 diabetes would change their diet, exercise and talk to their doctor if they knew they were at an increased risk for heart disease. Yet, more than half are still unaware of the connection. Endocrinologist Jennifer Green, M.D., associate professor of Medicine, Duke University Division of Endocrinology and Duke Clinical Research Institute, explained that people with diabetes are at higher risk for plaque to build up on the walls of arteries, which makes it easier for cholesterol to gather. Eventually, this reduces the space through which blood can flow, and may lead to life-threatening problems like heart attacks and strokes. “Diabetes is a progressive condition and even if blood sugar is controlled, the heart disease risk remains,” Dr. Green said. Encourage your sweetheart to talk to their doctor at their next appointment about available treatment options.

3. Show support at your sweetheart’s next appointment

Scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider is an important first step to addressing the link between type 2 diabetes and heart disease. And you can lend a hand by going with your sweetheart. After her dad, Edward, who has type 2 diabetes, had a heart attack, Karol Watson, M.D., Ph.D., FACC, professor of medicine/cardiology, co-director, UCLA Program in Preventive Cardiology, decided to pursue cardiology to dedicate her life’s work to helping people with diabetes understand their risk for cardiovascular disease. She sees firsthand how overwhelming it can be for people to learn about their increased risk for heart disease, so she suggests bringing your sweetheart to help take notes and ask questions. People can start this conversation with their sweetheart by downloading the patient discussion guide on ForYourSweetHeart.com and bringing it to their next doctor’s appointment.

4. Make a diabetes- and heart-friendly commitment

Sometimes the sweetest gift isn’t a box of chocolates — instead, you can show how much you care by making a commitment to support your sweetheart’s healthy choices to help manage their type 2 diabetes and heart disease risk. As a self-proclaimed “cupcake-lover,” heart-health advocate Jacqueline modifies her Valentine’s Day celebration to help her sweetheart, her husband Sadegh, eat well, exercise and manage his blood sugar. Sadegh has type 2 diabetes and suffered a heart attack from complications associated with the condition. Jacqueline encourages him to do everything he can to manage his condition so he can be around for many more Valentine’s Days.

5. Spread the love

If your loved one has type 2 diabetes, encourage them to visit ForYourSweetHeart.com to take the Heart You Quiz and understand their risk for heart disease, so they can be around for a long time. Sign up to receive more information about type 2 diabetes and heart disease that may help them talk with their doctor at their next appointment about their heart disease risk and available treatment options to help manage it. Spread the word about the connection and show your love because, by having a heart, you might just save theirs.

2018-02-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Think of all the items you replace regularly — your cellphone, lightbulbs and even your toothbrush. But when was the last time you replaced your smoke alarm batteries, or even the alarms themselves? It’s easy to overlook, but the time to think about fire safety is now — before an emergency strikes.

Many assume that because they have smoke alarms in their homes, they’re protected in the event of a fire. In reality, smoke alarms need to be installed, maintained and tested regularly to ensure they’re working properly. That effort includes knowing how old smoke alarms and their batteries are, as neither lasts forever. While smoke alarm lifespan and sensing technology have improved in recent years, the fact remains that all smoke alarms — even hardwired and sealed battery models — expire after 10 years.

“According to the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org), three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms or from missing or dead batteries,” said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. “Just like other household duties, it’s important to make sure alarm maintenance and replacement and escape planning and practice become a regular, ongoing part of your family’s routine.”

First Alert offers the following advice to ensure your family is best protected from fire.

Count the alarms — In most cases, one alarm isn’t enough. In fact, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), recommends smoke alarms be installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement, as well as one carbon monoxide (CO) alarm on each level and in each sleeping area. A quick and easy way to remember is one on every level and in every bedroom.

Install them properly — Does your alarm ever sound when cooking? Chances are, you’ve installed the alarm too close to your appliances. An easy way to reduce false alarms and maximize coverage is to take a moment to review manufacturer guidelines and install alarms in the proper locations. Smoke alarms should generally be installed at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance to minimize false alarms. It’s also recommended to install smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings. Remember, smoke rises, so high placement provides a direct path for detection. Lastly, don’t install smoke alarms near windows, doors or ducts, where drafts might interfere with their operation.

Get complete coverage — In general, there are two types of fires — quick flaming and smoldering. Today’s smoke alarms are effective at detecting both but use unique technologies that make them better suited for particular locations within the home. The NFPA and other safety advocates recommend installing dual-sensor alarms like the First Alert 10-Year Battery Dual Sensor Alarm because they provide the best potential for early detection of all types of common household fires while helping to reduce the number of non-emergency alarms — all while providing a decade of protection without the need for costly and ongoing battery replacement.

Install and maintain — Having smoke alarms is only one part of the story. In order to function properly, all alarms must be regularly inspected and maintained. Make sure to test the alarm, by simply holding down the test button, at least once a month. Also, when testing, it’s important to clean the alarm to remove any dust or debris. This advice holds true even for newer alarms, which feature 10-year batteries, as well as hardwired alarms that feature a battery back-up. Check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.

Plan your escape — Maintaining alarms is essential to every household, but what about your escape route? Unfortunately, recent research indicates that just 25 percent of families have an escape plan that they practice regularly. To develop an effective plan, walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Identify two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Practice your home fire escape plan at least twice a year and make sure to plan a meeting spot.

For more fire safety tips, visit www.firstalert.com.

2018-02-14T14:01:00

(BPT) – Children and teens experience some of the most important moments of their lives at school. It’s where they spend two-thirds of their waking hours. Of course, school can be stressful, too — and not just because of pop quizzes and science projects.

“Stress isn’t the same for all children, and it impacts every one differently,” said Dr. Cheryl S. Al-Mateen, medical director of the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. “In fact, in some cases this stress can even be traumatic. If left unnoticed, it can lead to real mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-harm and even substance abuse.”

Everyone deserves to feel comfortable talking about mental health — it plays an important role in a child’s overall health. Sometimes, however, topics around mental health can feel overwhelming or confusing for parents. Many may find it difficult to spot the difference between traditional school stress and the possibility of potential trauma. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help. As a start, Dr. Al-Mateen has five recommendations to support parents in understanding school issues, helping children cope and tackling potential problems.

* Check in about school. It can be difficult in our go-go-go world, but give your child your undivided attention for 5 to 10 minutes every day. Talk about their friends, teachers and classes. Open yourself to hearing the good and the bad, and ask what they find difficult — like feeling too nervous to talk or being teased for talking too much. These conversations help you identify problems as they arise, teach your child problem-solving skills and reinforce how deeply you care about their wellbeing.

* Strengthen your lines of communication. Your child may be more open about school if you have frequent conversations about other things as well. Talk to them about the little stuff, and they’ll be more apt to tell you about the big stuff. Listen without judging, and be ready to engage them in an activity if that makes them more comfortable. Braiding your child’s hair, shooting a few baskets in the driveway or working a puzzle can lead to a great conversation.

* Work with your school. If your child is showing signs of stress that concern you, don’t be afraid to reach out to their teacher(s) or school principal. Your child’s teacher may be able to shed light on what’s causing the stress and, if nothing else, can help watch out for your child during the school day.

* Establish a routine at home. Children thrive in stable, consistent environments. Creating a predictable schedule is helpful, if you can, but sometimes that’s just not possible. Make a big family calendar and keep it where everyone can access it. This empowers children to know what’s coming up and helps provide the solid foundation they crave at home. They’ll be better prepared to deal with changes and unexpected situations they may face at school.

* Seek help when you need it. How do you know if your child needs help beyond what you or the school can provide? Look for warning signs. For example, young children may complain about stomachaches and headaches that have no physical explanation. When depressed, a child may say that they’re angry, rather than sad, so listen for both — especially when their eating or sleeping patterns also change dramatically, they seem to have low energy or they aren’t taking pleasure in things they enjoyed before. These may be signs of a larger problem that needs to be addressed immediately with help from mental health professionals.

The school years are exciting, important times for your children, but they can be tough. Check in with your child daily and don’t downplay the stress they may feel. Recognizing potential issues quickly can help prevent larger problems down the road. To learn more about the Virginia Treatment Center for Children and to find more resources to support you and your child, visit chrichmond.org/vtcc.