Regular dental check-ups are an important aspect of prevention and health care maintenance. According to the American Dental Association, your dentist may be the first health care professional to detect a health problem, such as oral cancer. By visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and oral exams, you can guard against cancerous conditions while maintaining healthy teeth and an attractive smile.

Source: American Dental Association

EASY ON THE SALT

Many people eat too much salt (sodium chloride). More than three-quarters of our sodium intake comes from processed foods such as frozen dinners, canned foods and processed meats. If you have hypertension, cutting your sodium intake can help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health. The best way to cut down on sodium is to eat more foods in their natural form, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and to limit processed and fast foods. Aim for a max of 1500-2300 milligrams of sodium (2/3 to 1 teaspoon of salt) per day.

Source: US Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010

According to a registered dietitian, granola bars vary in nutritional content. While some can serve as healthful snack choices, others may contain large amounts of sugar, saturated fats and calories with little fiber or other nutrients. Check out the nutrition facts label to compare different granola bar options. Or for a quick and easy alternative, make your own trail mix. Fill a small sandwich bag with whole-grain cereal, mixed with nuts and dried fruit. While you still have to be mindful of calories and portion size, the fiber and nutrient content of this snack is better than many granola bars.

Source: United States Department of Agriculture

You can’t smell or see it but at high levels carbon monoxide (CO) can kill a person in minutes. It is produced whenever any fuel—such as gas, oil, kerosene, charcoal—is burned. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CO claims the lives of hundreds of people each year. At low levels, symptoms include shortness of breath, mild nausea and mild headaches. Protect yourself and your family; don’t ignore any of these symptoms. If you suspect CO poisoning, get fresh air immediately and get to the emergency room for a blood test soon after exposure.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Eating smaller portions of food is one of the easiest ways to cut back on calories. Knowing serving sizes can help prevent overeating. When you’re not sure about serving size, use your hand as a guide. A healthy portion of meat, poultry or fish is about the size of an open palm. One serving (one cup) of most ready-to-eat cereal is about the size of a fist. One serving (one half-cup) of cooked rice or pasta is about a handful. A serving (one tablespoon) of peanut butter is about the size of a thumb.

Source: HealthFitness Dietitian

Do you take a daily multivitamin? If so, many nutrition experts recommend taking it with a meal. Doing so can improve the absorption of some nutrients and may reduce stomach irritation. We recommend looking for a multivitamin with The United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) seal of approval. This voluntary standard ensures that the vitamin has been tested to dissolve properly and that it meets quality and purity standards. Just remember that vitamin supplements are not a substitute for a healthful diet. It is best to check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

Source: U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention

According to a recent report on sleep patterns, if we miss a few hours of sleep during the week, we must make them up in a relatively short time period. Otherwise, we pay the price in terms of sleep-related ailments, such as a weakened immune system, more colds and flu, grogginess, inability to concentrate, and irritability. In addition, a growing body of research suggests that sleep may have an impact on hunger and appetite control. Lack of sleep, therefore, has been linked to an increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Are you CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) certified? If not, join us this weekend (3-10-12) as our local chapter of the American Heart Association hosts their next CPR class.  This group offers a convenient classroom-based CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) course. You may save the life of a family member, friend or neighbor!  Contact us today for more information!

Source: American Heart Association

Using a humidifier when you have a cold may help you feel better. It is important to keep it clean and well-maintained because dirty humidifiers can harbor bacteria and mold. Play it safe. Here are a few tips to keep your humidifier clean: Use distilled water; refill with clean water daily; clean every three days; follow the manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning and maintaining the unit.

Source: Environmental Protection Agency

March is National Nutrition Month. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reminds everyone about the importance of making educated food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits. A healthy eating plan emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy and includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts. Focus on getting a variety of nutrient-rich foods packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients in proper portions. Balancing a healthy diet with physical activity is the best recipe for maintaining a healthy weight. Start eating smarter and moving more today!

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics