At one time or another, most people have been struck by nausea. Some are queasy from chemotherapy. Others are experiencing a reaction to food, drugs, stress or motion sickness. Still others are pregnant moms suffering from around-the-clock morning sickness.  

“Nausea has literally hundreds of causes,” explains Cynthia Ulreich, NP, a nurse practitioner at Henry Ford Health System. “It’s a common symptom for everything from illnesses like reflux to changing hormones.”

Thankfully, that queasy feeling doesn’t have to derail you. Below, Ulreich shares a few anti-nausea remedies.

Nausea Remedies Explained

Nausea is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom. Whether your stomach is rebelling because of pregnancy, acid reflux, medication or some other cause, these seven remedies may offer some relief:  

1. Chew ginger: Ginger has a storied history as a remedy for nausea, upset stomach and diarrhea. While scientists aren’t entirely clear why it works, they have noted that ginger has an anti-spasmodic effect in the gut. In fact, studies consistently show that ginger can help reduce pregnancy- and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Can’t tolerate the texture of raw ginger? Nibble on ginger snaps, sip on ginger ale (with real ginger) or make ginger tea.
2. Put on the pressure: For centuries, Chinese medical practitioners have recognized that applying pressure at specific points on the body can help alleviate nausea and vomiting. Called acupressure, the technique stimulates certain nerves which in turn tells the brain to release nausea-relieving hormones. Studies suggest acupressure can help ease nausea caused by cancer treatment, acid reflux and other conditions. Can’t afford an acupressure session every time you’re nauseous? Consider wearing pressure bracelets. Available at your local pharmacy, these bracelets provide consistent pressure on a particular acupressure point on the wrist to reduce queasiness.
3. Take a whiff: Inhaling specific scents, called aromatherapy, may also help calm a troubled tummy. “The scents help trick the nausea centers in the brain by providing it with new input,” says Ulreich. Lavender, lemon and peppermint are all mild scents that can have soothing effects. For best results, place a few drops in an essential oil diffuser or into a tissue and inhale the scent when you’re feeling nauseous. If you’re using oils on your skin, always dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, almond or olive oil.
4. Get some fresh air: “Getting outside can increase feelings of well-being and help quiet nausea,” says Ulreich. Just a simple change of scenery can help shift your attention away from your queasy stomach.
5. Breathe deep: Whether you breathe deeply for a few minutes, meditate or listen to a guided imagery track, moving air in and out of your lungs can help relieve nausea. It can also help you relax and release stress and anxiety.
6. Suck on peppermint candy: Sucking on candy can be remarkably helpful. “One of the causes of nausea in cancer patients is how the drugs impact taste receptors,” says Ulreich. Sucking on candy and chewing gum can help alleviate the bad taste in your mouth that can trigger nausea.
7. Consider meds: If nausea persists, talk to your doctor. Medication can wipe out symptoms up to 97 percent of the time.

Nausea Over the Long-Haul

Most of the time, nausea is a minor annoyance that goes away on its own. But if the queasiness doesn’t subside within a day or two, don’t be afraid to speak up.

“We have a number of different tools in our arsenal to treat nausea,” says Ulreich. “In addition to medications, complementary approaches, such as acupuncture and aromatherapy can help quiet symptoms.”

Of course, nausea (and vomiting) can also be a symptom of a more serious disease. If you’re suffering from severe abdominal pain, notice blood in your vomit or if you’re vomiting for more than 24 hours, seek medical attention at your doctor’s office, a walk-in clinic or the nearest emergency room, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

To find a doctor at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936). Want more wellness advice? Subscribe today to receive weekly emails.

Cynthia Ulreich is an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with cancer patients at the Henry Ford Cancer Institute at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

The post 7 Remedies for Taming Nausea appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Healthy eating isn’t only about the ingredients you choose. It’s also about how you prepare your food. Focusing on healthy cooking methods helps food retain more nutrients and introduces fewer toxins than deep-frying or blackening.

Do’s and Don’ts for Clean Eating

Whether you’re firing up the grill or stir-frying on the stove, how you choose to cook your food dramatically impacts its nutritional value. So before you break out your apron, consider these food prep and cooking method do’s and don’ts.

DO:

1. Choose fruits and vegetables: No matter how you’re cooking — or not cooking — your food, fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals and cancer-fighting chemicals. If you’re hitting the grill, produce is your safest bet since it doesn’t have protein (muscle) or fat, both of which mutate under an open flame and produce cancer-causing chemicals.
2. Use your microwave: Light cooking retains the most nutrients. So steaming or microwave cooking with minimal water can help preserve nutrients. You can even use a steamer or microwave to pre-cook meat, fish and poultry and then lightly finish it on the grill.
3. Choose lean: When fat drips into the grill during cooking, the resulting flames coat your food with polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), toxic chemicals linked to cancer. To reduce your exposure to PAHs, start with lean cuts of meat and poultry and always trim the fat before you put protein on the grill.
4. Remove the char: Before you dig in to your food, remove the charred edges. When you’re finished cooking, clean the grill to get rid of the charred bits stuck to the surface.

DON’T:

1. Use low heat point oils: Not all oils are created equal. Always steer clear of oils high in saturated or trans fats, including all hydrogenated oils and coconut oil. Then select your oil based on the smoke point (the temperature where an oil will start to burn): Oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado and canola, are suitable for cooking. Lower smoke point oils, such as olive and nut oils, are best used in salad dressings, low-temperature cooking and for drizzling on food before serving.
2. Cook over high heat: Cooking food at high temps, particularly over a direct or open flame, produces cancer-causing chemicals called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). When possible, place briquettes on the sides of the grill rather than in the center. Cook meat at low heat (under 325 degrees) for a longer period of time and flip it frequently to prevent charring. You can even put meat in foil to prevent juices from dripping into the hot coals.
3. Overcook: No matter how you cook it, overcooked food usually has fewer nutrients. For a greater nutrient punch, limit the amount of heat, time and water you use, particularly for foods that are high in water-soluble vitamins (such as peppers, carrots and leafy greens).
4. Fry your food: Frying food can double or quadruple the amount of fat and calories on your plate. White fish, for example, is only 25 calories per ounce when it’s baked or broiled. But, when it’s breaded or fried, the caloric hit can jump to 400.

Related Topic: Ignore This Advice: 4 Common Nutrition Tips to Question

Techniques for Healthy Cooking

The key to cooking healthy – and tasty — food is to find ways to boost flavor while retaining the nutrition.

A few healthier cooking methods:

• Baking: This method doesn’t require added fat or moisture, which helps retain nutrients.
• Braising: Braising begins with browning food on the stovetop and then adding liquid and simmering on low heat. The leftover liquid makes a great sauce or gravy.
• Broiling: While broiling exposes food to direct heat, using a low setting can help limit smoke.
• Poaching: Poaching involves simmering food in a flavorful liquid, such as broth, wine or fresh juices.
• Roasting: Another dry heat option that emphasizes low, slow cooking. 

Want to experiment with other methods? A variety of innovative kitchen appliances can help. From vegetable spiralizers and blenders to electric pressure cookers and air fryers, cooking healthfully can be quick and easy, too. 

To find a registered dietitian at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Want more advice from our registered dietitian nutritionists and other healthy living experts? Subscribe today to receive weekly emails of our latest tips and recipes.

The post The Do’s and Don’ts of Healthy Cooking Methods appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Modern medications can remedy a range of ailments — from reducing the symptoms of the common cold to regulating blood pressure or making chronic pain manageable. Taken as directed or prescribed, they can help us enjoy better health and an improved quality of life.

To ensure your medicines can work as well as they should and to protect those who share your home, it is important to store drugs properly. And when you no longer need them or they’ve expired, safely disposing of them is equally important.

Gay Alcenius, a pharmacist who has managed the acute care pharmacy at Henry Ford Allegiance Health for the last 19 years, offers these medication storage tips.

Storing Your Medications

First, Alcenius advises you to think about where you keep your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.

• Empty that medicine cabinet. Heat, air, light and moisture may damage your medicine. That means keeping your pills in your bathroom’s “medicine cabinet” is not a great idea. Over time, all that humidity can make meds less potent. Pills and capsules are easily damaged by heat and moisture. Aspirin can break down into a combination of vinegar and salicylic acid, so instead of helping you feel better, the aspirin may irritate your stomach.

• Find a cool, dry spot. To protect your medications, store them in a cool, dry place like a dresser drawer or kitchen cabinet—so long as it’s not near the sink or above the stove or other hot appliances like your toaster. Other options to consider could be keeping medicine in a lockable storage box on a shelf or a cool, dry closet.

• Follow instructions. Of course, some medications must be kept cold. Store them in a small plastic container within your refrigerator and follow the instructions from your pharmacy. 

Next, be sure to keep medicine in its original bottle and pay attention to its condition. For example, if you notice your medicine has changed in color, texture or smell, do not use it. If your pills stick together, or are cracked, chipped or harder or softer than you know is normal, do not use them or even keep them around.

Protecting Kids, Pets and Others

When it comes to medication storage, Alcenius reminds you not to forget those in your household who may be at risk, like children and toddlers, teens and young adults, and even pets.

• Store them locked and/or out of reach. Store your medication where children cannot reach or even see them. Consider using a cabinet with a childproof safety latch or lock.

• Keep an eye on your purse. Avoid carrying pills in your purse, making them easily accessible to little ones who may mistake tablets for mints or candy.

• Choose childproof caps. A child’s well-being is worth a momentary inconvenience.

• Protect your vulnerable pre-teens and teenagers. Teen drug abuse often begins with easy access to medications at home. Be vigilant about keeping over-the-counter and prescription medications in a locked cabinet or other inaccessible storage. Ask grandparents and other relatives to do the same. Keep an up-to-date list of all the medications in your home so you can be sure if something is missing.

• Don’t forget pet safety. Remember to keep medicines away from curious pets too. If your pet takes medications, you may want to consider separating those from your medications to prevent mix-ups.

Related Topic: From Toddlers to Teens: Medication Safety Tips for Parents

When & How to Safely Dispose of Medications

Regularly (at least annually) check all medications and dispose of any that have expired. Prescription medications have a “use by” date. All over-the-counter medications have an expiration date, usually on the side of the bottle or on the bottom of the tube (for ointment or cream). Some wound care products also have expiration dates, so check those too.

Discard unused prescription medications when these medications are discontinued or changed. For example, do not save unused pain medications after a minor surgical procedure. It is important to dispose of these unusable drugs properly.

“Look out for your own health, and ensure the proper storage and safe condition of your medications. At the same time, be absolutely sure to take action to keep others who share your home safe,” says Alcenius.

Take time today to take stock of your medications, and make sure they are stored properly and safely. If you have questions, your pharmacist is a trustworthy resource.

Want to talk to a pharmacist about medication storage or disposal questions? Find a Henry Ford Pharmacy near you.

Gay Alcenius, Pharm.D., is the clinical manager of the acute care pharmacy at Henry Ford Allegiance Health.

The post Empty That Medicine Cabinet: Safe Medication Storage Tips appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Talking about sensitive topics doesn’t come easily to every guy. When the conversation centers on health — especially when chatting with a doctor — many men become even more reluctant to speak up.

But according to Ali Dabaja, M.D., a urologist and men’s health expert at Henry Ford Health System, tackling men’s health questions head-on can help you address problems before they spin out of control. Nonetheless, men frequently don’t address a variety of common health issues. The top under-discussed men’s health concerns?

• Depression
• Erectile dysfunction
• Gynecomastia (“man boobs”)
• Hair loss
• Sexual dysfunction

How to Talk to Your Doctor About Men’s Health

Of course, discussing issues like erectile dysfunction, hair loss, gynecomastia and relationship woes can be difficult. The alternatives, though — ongoing pain, an unsatisfying sex life, a drop in confidence — are worse. Learning to express concerns and ask questions about your health are the first steps toward finding solutions.

Here, Dr. Dabaja offers six simple strategies for opening up to your doctor about men’s health problems: 

1. Partner with your doctor: View your doctor as an ally in your quest to get to the bottom of what ails you, not someone who will judge you for. If you can’t connect with your doctor — or if you’re not willing to open up — it will be much more difficult to get help for your problem.

2. Research the topic: Not only will you learn enough to help you formulate the best questions for your physician, you’ll also quickly discover that you’re not alone. “Anything you’re worried about sharing, doctors have heard before,” Dr. Dabaja says.

3. Write down your questions: Plan your questions in advance of your appointment. Jot a note in your smartphone or write your questions on a piece of paper. Then you can just read them aloud when you see the doctor rather than thinking about them in the moment, and won’t forget to mention any details or questions you want to ask.

4. Get specific and speak openly: Don’t be ashamed to tell your doctor you’re nervous before launching into specifics about your condition, Dr. Dabaja says. He or she may be able to help you break the ice in terms of discussing your concerns. Make sure you explain what you’re experiencing in your own words and be specific about your symptoms. When the doctor is explaining things to you, ask questions, pay attention and if what you’re hearing doesn’t make sense, ask your doctor to explain unfamiliar terms, or draw pictures to help you understand the anatomy or to show you the X-ray images.

5. Bring in supports: Tackling sensitive topics is easier when you have support. Bring your spouse or partner, a sibling or a trusted loved one to an appointment if it helps. Sometimes people close to us notice things we don’t. In addition, a second set of ears can be helpful when your doctor explains potential causes of and solutions to your symptoms.

6. Don’t suffer in silence: Sadly, it’s not uncommon for men to let health problems go undiscussed. Truth is, silence doesn’t allow an opportunity for anyone to help. No matter what your health dilemma, chances are good your doctor can provide assistance. In nearly every case, the sooner you get help for sensitive health issues, the better equipped you’ll be to address them.

Getting Back to Basics

Sometimes, simply getting to the doctor can be a challenge. Maybe you’re busy at work and don’t want to request time off. Maybe you’re afraid of what your doctor will tell you. Or maybe you don’t want to get screened for cancer, diabetes or other chronic diseases.

Related Topic: 7 Important Screenings Every Man Should Get

“Any health issue you have is best addressed shortly after the onset of symptoms,” Dr. Dabaja says. Tell your doctor about any changes in your health, including your level of stress and anxiety. Be honest about sexual problems. And don’t be ashamed to discuss things like hair loss, weight gain or depression.

“These are common problems, especially as men reach middle age and beyond,” Dr. Dabaja says.  

Still nervous? Keep in mind that navigating an uncomfortable conversation and getting a physical exam is less bothersome than letting an important health issue go undiagnosed. When you’re upfront with your doc, you’re more likely to sidestep bigger health problems.

To find a doctor or therapist at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Want more wellness advice? Subscribe today to receive weekly emails.

Dr. Ali Dabaja is urologist specializing in men’s health, reproductive medicine and transgender health at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Medical Centers in Dearborn and Sterling Heights.

The post How to Talk to Your Doctor About Awkward Men’s Health Issues appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Humans have recognized the power of dance for centuries. We dance to celebrate a union, a birth or rites of passage; sometimes it’s also a form of prayer. But until recently, scientists didn’t realize that the health benefits of dancing include physiological and emotional perks beyond what you might get from other forms of exercise.

“Movement is one of our 10 life functions — on the same list as eating, sleeping and procreating,” says Christina Lucas-Vougiouklakis, D.O., a family medicine physician at Henry Ford Health System (and a dancer).

Dance Research Roundup

There’s plenty of science to support the idea that all exercise is generally good for your mind, body and soul. But research suggests dancing is especially good for protecting your health. In fact, recent studies link dancing with a reduced risk of disability and dementia among seniors compared to other forms of physical activity.

“Dance stimulates the nerves in a way that sort of ‘wakes up’ dormant nerve endings,” Dr. Lucas-Vougiouklakis explains. “Performing movements in a specific sequence stimulates different parts of the brain.”

One study of elderly Japanese women found that all types of physical activity, including walking, aerobic activity, yoga and dance, helped women maintain their independence, but dancing provided the greatest benefits. Women who reported dancing frequently were 73 percent less likely to become disabled during the study period than women who didn’t dance. A second study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that mind-body exercises, especially dance and tai chi , help boost brain power among aging adults. And in a third study, researchers reviewed brain scans and discovered that dancing increased the amount of white matter in older adults’ brains (loss of white matter is associated with aging and cognitive decline).

Related Topic: Parkinson’s Patients Rediscover Freedom of Movement with Dance

Get Your Groove On

While these studies don’t definitively prove that dancing results in health benefits, they do point to an association between dancing and well-being. Plus, dancing and listening to music often go hand in hand, and music offers its own set of benefits.

“If you hear a song repetitively, you begin to anticipate what’s coming next and move your body accordingly,” Dr. Lucas-Vougiouklakis says. From the Electric Slide and the Hokey Pokey to Baby Shark and the Macarena, choreographed dance routines require you to engage both body and mind at the same time.

A few ideas to get your groove on:

• Play “freeze dance”: Adults and kids alike love a good game of freeze dance. Plug in your favorite tunes, hit play and then pause a few times during each song for participants to “freeze.”
• Practice cultural dances: Take the time to study and learn different cultural dances. From belly dancing and folk dances like the hula, cultures around the world use dance as a form of expression and entertainment.
• Take a class: Whether you choose barre, Zumba, ballroom or swing, signing up for a class is a great way to get moving on the dance floor. A bonus: You’ll meet people who share similar interests while you’re grooving.

Music and dance bring people together. In fact, many forms of dance rely on touch, which offers its own set of healing benefits.

Related Topic: Not Exercising Regularly? 12 Hacks to Get You Moving More

To find a doctor at Henry Ford and talk about what kind of exercise is right for you, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Want more advice from Henry Ford experts?  Subscribe today to receive weekly emails of our latest tips.

Dr. Christina Lucas-Vougiouklakis is a family medicine doctor who sees patients of all ages at Henry Ford Medical Center – Brownstown.

The post How Dancing Improves Overall Health appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Marie Kondo has received a lot of attention in recent months with her conviction that clearing out clutter can somehow clean up your life. The gist: Purge the items you don’t use regularly and only hang on to the things that “spark joy.” It might sound gimmicky, but a growing body of research suggests she may be on to something.

Why You De-Cluttering Matters

Research aside, most of us agree that having too much stuff around can make us feel bad. The never-ending stream of junk — and valuable possessions — piling up around you can make you feel anxious and even depressed. It can even interfere with your ability to complete a task.

Learn why all of that clutter can wreak havoc on your life — and what you can do about it:  

1. It increases stress: Having a slew of items constantly in your field of vision can increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

What to do: Pick up your stuff. Decide on a place for each item and take 10 minutes at the end of each day to put things away.

2. It interferes with your ability to focus: At any moment, your brain has to process thousands of pieces of information simultaneously. Don’t give it more stuff to weed through. If your desk is piled with papers, folders and unopened mail, it can be tough to stay on task. The same rule applies to your digital workspace. If you have several windows open on your computer, or you’re navigating email while also writing a report, you run the risk of overwhelming your mind.

What to do: Organize your space before you try to work in it. Take your time doing so and be deliberate about how you organize your space.

3. It can sabotage your sleep: Most Americans have trouble getting the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep at night. Research suggests that having too much stuff in your space can impact the quality of your shut-eye.

What to do: Even if you can’t keep clutter out of your house, at least keep it out of your bedroom. Also, make sure to establish a soothing sleep routine. Take a warm bath, meditate for 15 minutes or read a modestly engaging – but not too challenging — paperback.

4. It can make you cranky: When you walk into your house and see stuff scattered about, your self-esteem may take a hit. You may feel disorganized, confused and even guilty for not getting rid of stuff you don’t need.

What to do: Recognize that your space doesn’t define you but make a plan to declutter and start with the items that don’t bring you joy.

Support Your Space

Anyone who has a desk piled with files or a closet that has spilled out into the bedroom knows that clutter isn’t just a physical nuisance, it can also have emotional effects. Nearly any object can dredge up emotions — good and bad.

The good news: Getting rid of clutter is easy to do. Just ditch anything that doesn’t make you feel good. While getting the job done can be difficult, if you’re methodical about it, you might be surprised by how quickly you can clean up your act — and how good you feel about yourself afterward. A few strategies:

• Make a plan: Work together as a family to clear out the clutter. Ask each family member to choose a designated space to organize. Then, make keeping it clean a family affair.
• Pitch what you can: If you don’t use an item, or if you don’t want it, get rid of it. If you only use an item occasionally, find a spot for it in a high or low cabinet or closet to free up space in easy-access locations for things you use every day.
• Create a space: Keep items in designated spots so you can find what you need when you need it. Use closed off spaces, like drawers or cabinets, so you don’t have to look at clutter.  
• Clean as you go: If you take something out of its designated space, put it back as soon as you’re done with it.  

Keep in mind that the quality of the things you keep (that is, how an object makes you feel) has as much impact on your health as the amount of stuff you’ve accumulated. If something makes you feel bad, ask yourself why you’re hanging on to it.

To find a doctor or therapist at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Want more wellness advice? Subscribe today to receive weekly emails.

The post Can Clearing Out Clutter Boost Your Mental Health? appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

People who grow their own food often insist that it tastes better than the store-bought variety — and for good reason. Food that is grown locally and eaten within hours of being harvested is at its peak in terms of flavor and nutrients.

Plus, gardening can be fun for the whole family.

“It’s a great way to learn about food, connect with your family and enjoy outdoor activities,” says Trevor Johnson, who is the resident farmer overseeing the Greenhouse at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital.

Home Gardening Basics

Countless studies support the idea that getting your hands dirty is good for health and well-being. In addition to alleviating stress, gardening enhances flexibility, improves mood and provides fresh, healthy produce. Here’s how to get started.

1. Check the soil: Before you start planting, make sure your soil is suitable for growing. Michigan State University Extension will do a basic soil test to analyze organic matter and nutrients. You might also want to have your soil tested for heavy metals. Lead and arsenic are common in Michigan soil. Want to skip this step? Plant crops in bins, barrels or other above-ground planters using store-bought soil.
2. Focus on only a few crops: Only grow a few crops — things you know you will use on a weekly basis. “This isn’t the time to experiment with a new fruit or obscure vegetable you want your kids to like,” Johnson says. Need inspiration? Check out a basic gardening book like Artichoke to Zucchini: A Vegetable Gardener’s Bible or Gaia’s Garden.
3. Keep it simple: There are several herbs, vegetables and fruits that you can plant and forget for a while. Examples include short perennials like radishes, lettuce, cilantro, thyme, basil and oregano. Tomatoes are also easy to grow. Vegetables that are a little more difficult for beginning growers: Squash, peppers, eggplant, melons and cauliflower. Any 120-day crops (those that grow in a 120-day cycle) are a bit risky in this climate.
4. Find your people: A great way to get into gardening is to join a community garden. “Most people who participate in these gardens are very generous in terms of sharing information,” Johnson says. “They can also help guide you based on your level of experience.”
5. Get engaged: Food touches everything. So focusing on your food — where it comes from, how it’s grown and prepared and what it does to nourish your body — is engaging with your humanity. It all relates to self-care.

Related Topic: A Farmers Market Guide: Maximizing Your Shopping Trip

Nurture Your Garden and Yourself

Growing your own food can be a rewarding experience, but it’s vital to remember that it does take work. You have to nurture your garden if you want it to nurture you.

“You have to make a commitment to learn, become a scientist and experiment,” Johnson says. “Then, focus on what brings you joy. That’s the best feedback for gardening.”

While you’re out tending the soil, it’s important to take care of yourself, too. Apply sunscreen, wear a broad-brimmed hat and drink plenty of water.

Proper food preparation is also part of the process. Always wash your produce and choose cooking methods that retain nutrients. Take cooking classes, visit farmers markets and go to places where you’ll learn how to put foods together.

Interested in learning more? Sign up for a class at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital’s Demonstration Kitchen and subscribe today to receive weekly emails of our latest tips on nutrition and healthy recipes.

Trevor Johnson is the resident farmer at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital’s Greenhouse, which is Michigan’s first hospital-based greenhouse. It supplies produce for patient meals, hospital café use and the weekly seasonal market held at the hospital, as well as providing innovative educational programs for children and the community.

The post How to Start a Home Garden (And Why You Should) appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Memory loss due to aging is a concern for many of us. You may wonder what’s a “normal” amount of forgetfulness to experience on a day-to-day basis and what is a warning sign of something more serious, like the onset of dementia.

“It is important to know that dementia, or a degree of memory loss that affects daily living, is not a normal or inevitable part of aging,” says Elena Gupta, M.D., a geriatrics specialist with Henry Ford Allegiance Health. “The most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, affects about one-third of our population. Many people reach advanced age without significant cognitive problems.”

It is best to consult a medical professional if you have any concerns, because dementia-like symptoms can have a variety of causes, including medication side effects, dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, sleep problems, thyroid issues or depression.

Reviewing these guidelines may help you decide if you should make an appointment with your doctor.

What are examples of typical or normal forgetfulness?

• Forgetting a specific word
• Occasionally losing things
• Forgetting where you put your keys
• Missing a bill payment
• Forgetting the day or date briefly
• Missing a medication dose
• Making occasional bad decisions
• Needing help with technology
• Wanting temporary break from work, family or social obligations
• Occasional moodiness or irritability

What are some possible signs of dementia?

• Struggling to communicate a thought or follow a conversation
• Frequently misplacing items and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Forgetting what keys are used for
• Trouble taking care of bills
• Confusion with time or place
• Inability to manage daily medications
• Frequent poor judgement that can be unsafe or costly
• Difficulty completing familiar daily tasks
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Frequent mood changes that include confusion, suspicion or fearfulness

Early detection is important with dementia, as are preventive measures like controlling diabetes and blood pressure, eating healthy, regularly exercising and engaging in activities that stimulate your mind.

“While there is still no way to cure dementia, there are medications that may slow its progression in the early stages,” says Dr. Gupta. “A health care professional can also guide you to resources for family education and caregiver support, which can be very helpful.”

Related Topic: 4 Tips to Boost Brain Power & Prevent Memory Loss

Learn more about specialized testing and a consultation related to dementia, memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease at the Henry Ford Allegiance Senior Health Center.

To find a doctor on henryford.com, or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936) in southeast Michigan or 1-888-862-DOCS in the Jackson area or south central Michigan.

Dr. Elena Gupta is board certified in geriatrics and internal medicine. She performs neurobehavioral and cognitive testing, evaluation and consultation related to dementia, memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease in Jackson, Mich.

The post Memory Loss: Is It Normal Forgetfulness or Dementia? appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

If you have ever helped a friend move, planted a garden or tried a new sport, chances are you have experienced some level of back pain. Low back pain is a common complaint for many adults, affecting up to 80 percent of American adults at some point.

Thankfully, some simple self-care can often be effective in bringing relief. The next time you clean out the garage or weed your flowerbeds and end up with an aching back, keep these ideas in mind these tips from Iman Abou-Chakra, M.D., who specializes in treating back and spinal conditions as a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician with Henry Ford Health System.

• Comfort measures. Cold helps to reduce swelling, while heat decreases pain. By alternating the use of an ice pack and a heating pad, you can experience the benefits of both. Apply the ice pack for 15 minutes, three times a day. Be sure to put a towel between your skin and an ice pack. While sitting up, use a heating pad to ease your lower back pain, also for 15 minutes at a time. Do not sleep on a heating pad.

• Sit supported. It’s surprising how something as simple as sitting can put a strain on your back. Keep a rolled-up towel or pillow in your favorite chair so that your lower back is supported while you are sitting.

• Watch your posture. To avoid worsening your pain or reinjuring your back, be mindful of the way you move. Bend at your hips and knees rather than the waist. For heavy lifting, let your legs to the work, not your back. Keep the heavy object close to your body. Know your limits and respect them. If lifting your child is too difficult, sit side by side. Rather than lug three heavy bags of groceries into the house, carry one at a time or divide the items into smaller bags. It may take more trips, but your back is worth it.

“Self-care can be helpful, but I want to offer a word of caution—if lower back pain persists or becomes worse, it is time to see a health care provider,” says Dr. Abou-Chakra. “Symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the legs, muscle spasms, significant limitation in motion of the spine, a constant pain that does not decrease within a week, or a sharp, stabbing pain, need to be reported to your doctor. Your back pain could be your body’s way of alerting you to a bigger problem.”

Related Topic: When Does Back Pain Mean Surgery?

To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, visit henryford.com, or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936) in southeast Michigan or 1-888-862-DOCS if you’re in Jackson or south central Michigan.

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Dr. Iman Abou-Chakra specializes in orthopedic, spine and physical medicine and rehabilitation at Henry Ford Allegiance Health in Jackson, Mich.

The post Simple Self-Care Tips for Low Back Pain appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.

Navigating your monthly cycle can be a nuisance — cramps, irritability and cravings are all par for the course. Plus, the products women use to keep their periods under control present another set of problems.

“Conventional feminine hygiene products, including pads and tampons, often contain dioxins from bleach, fragrance for odor control and other irritants,” says Melodee Babcock, a certified nurse midwife at Henry Ford Health System. “Some of these products, such as high-absorbency tampons, can increase the risk of bacterial infections and a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome, or TSS.”

Add in the cost of period products and the toll they take on the planet, and the price of a woman’s monthly bill can be pretty steep. Women spend thousands of dollars on feminine hygiene during their reproductive years. In addition, the estimated 300 pounds of tampons and pads each woman throws away end up in a landfill.

Alternative Period Products

Recognizing a demand for products that are healthier for women and kinder to the Earth, manufacturers have created alternative methods of managing that time of the month:

1. Menstrual cups: Menstrual cups seem to have few downsides. “They are usually silicone-based, reusable and you can leave them in for 12 hours,” says Babcock. The cup sits around the cervix and captures menstrual blood as it leaves the uterus. It has a stem that acts like a tampon string for easy retrieval. Some women prefer this option because it allows them to have intercourse without the mess.

The hitch: You have to be comfortable inserting your fingers into your vagina and washing the device after use.

2. Reusable tampons and pads: Tampons and pads also come in reusable varieties that you can wash and wear again. Made of soft, breathable cotton, these products are gentler on your skin. The pads have snaps around the edges that you can wrap around your underwear like “wings” on disposable pads. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and you can wash them with the rest of your laundry.

The hitch: You have to wash them thoroughly and they don’t protect against odor.

3. Sea sponges: Menstrual sea sponges look and act a lot like bath sponges. They come from the sea, so they’re theoretically natural and non-toxic. The sponge shapes itself to your curves and protects you for a full day when positioned properly. One sponge typically lasts for three to six cycles.

The hitch: They can be tough to get out and may leave behind residual dirt and bacteria. And like reusable tampons and pads, you need to wash them.

4. Period panties: Menstrual panties like Thinx and Knixwear build absorbent padding right into the lining. With styles ranging from sexy to athletic, these panties contain menstrual blood without the bulk and frequent changing of traditional pads. Babcock especially recommends them for new moms who are experiencing unpredictable postpartum bleeding. They’re washable, reusable and they won’t add to our growing landfills.   

The hitch: You have to be comfortable washing menstrual blood out of your panties. “Odor control can be a problem for some women, too,” Babcock says.

Safer Feminine Hygiene

When it comes to feminine hygiene, women have more options than ever before.

Concerned about irritants? Choose organic cotton. Worried about yeast infections from the constant moisture in your vaginal area? Change pads and tampons frequently. As for serious complications, such as TSS, they’re very rare.

“If you want to stick with conventional tampons, use the lowest-absorbency version and change them during recommended intervals,” Babcock says. Then learn the signs of TSS:

• Muscle weakness
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

“If you spot that rash, go to the emergency room immediately,” Babcock says.

Related Topic: Acupuncture for Women: From Menstruation to Menopause

To find a doctor who specializes in women’s health or a certified nurse midwife at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).

Want more advice from Henry Ford experts?  Subscribe today to receive weekly emails of our latest tips.

Melodee Babcock, CNM, is a certified nurse midwife, seeing patients at Henry Ford Medical Center – Livonia and Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital.

The post A New Generation of Products for Your Period appeared first on Henry Ford - LiveWell.