Health & Wellness Archives - Page 13 of 13 -

January 1, 2017February 15, 2021

Ask Dr. Renae: Don’t fear the teacher

Dear Dr. Renae,

I am very nervous and uncomfortable to ask my teachers questions about a grade or an assignment. They always seem so busy and stressed out. I feel like I am bothering them and they do not have the time for me. Sometimes when I hand in an assignment, it does not get posted on my grades. I can tell my parents are not sure whether to believe me that I completed it and handed it in. When I am absent I feel too anxious to approach my teachers about making up a test or a lab and I wind up with a zero. My grades are lower than they should be, but how can I approach my teachers without getting them angry and upsetting them?

Fearful Freshman

Dear Fearful Freshmen,

Boy do I understand your predicament. Let me be blunt: you won’t be bothering your teachers if you ask them anything. In fact, your teachers would probably be overjoyed if you ask them a question. It’s their job to help you, and yes, while you don’t want to add to their workload, a simple question and a reminder would help. I’m the same way, so just swallow the weird, guilty feeling and ask. Your grades shouldn’t suffer due to fear of teachers. Being a freshman is very tough, but hurdles like these help us grow. Trust me, I’ve been in your shoes before, just speak out.

A Sympathetic Friend

Dear Fearful Freshman:

As a first year high school student you might feel like a small fish in a big pond and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, you should know that even though your teachers might be busy, they are also working hard to make sure their students benefit from their class. You should take the time to explain why you are anxious and ask about your assignments and the zeroes reflected in your grades. This will help open communication between you and your teachers. In doing so, it will make it easier for you to talk to them when a problem does come up and reassure your parents you are doing the work required of you.

Your friend

Dear Fearful Freshman,

There is nothing to be afraid of. Teachers are there for you to ask questions. They love when students are involved. Don’t let your grades suffer because of how anxious you get. It will only make the teachers assume you don’t care about your grades. Your teachers are there to help you. They are often stressed and busy, but they always have time for their students and will never get mad at a student who cares. It may help to tell your parents about this. They could set up a conference for you, your parents, and your teachers to talk and explain your situation and feelings and then you may feel more comfortable.

A Fellow High Schooler

Dear Fearful Freshman,

Although teachers are busy, they devote their time to being at school and to help students. Teachers encourage feedback and communication from their students. A suggestion for you is to find out if your teachers have after school hours. This way you can spend one-on-one time with your teacher, which may make you feel more comfortable discussing the anxieties you feel. You should also have a heart-to-heart talk with your parents because there must be a reason your parents don’t trust you handed in your assignment and you believe they doubt you. Communication is important especially when you are feeling so misunderstood. Just remember that your teachers are here to help you anytime and want to see you succeed in school and life.

A Friend Who Cares

Dear Fearful Freshman,

Here’s the truth about teachers: They’re also human beings. Sometimes they may seem frustrated or annoyed, but they have good and bad days, just like the rest of us. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re not open to assisting you and helping you succeed. My suggestion would be to work on your fear and try to approach your teachers if you need their help. Make sure that you go to them at a proper time (not during class, for example). Even if you do approach them during lunch or another break, be sure to ask, “Is now a good time to talk?” If you teacher is busy, they’ll give you a better time to speak to them, then you will have their undivided attention.

A Caring Teen

Dear Fearful Freshman,

Do not be nervous to ask your teachers about your grades and assignments. Now, I know it’s easier said than done. Something you need to realize is that it’s your teachers job is to grade and handle your assignments. Sometimes they are busy and stressed. It’s a false mentality that you are having of bothering them. I recommend you to talk to them and fix your grades if they are lower than they should be. Change your mind-set and talk to them. Your teachers will most likely appreciate it, viewing you as responsible. You can’t go wrong with that – good luck.

A Friend Who Knows Where You Are Coming From

Dear Fearful Freshman,

Your teachers would feel bad to know that you were uncomfortable approaching them. You are observant to notice that some of your teachers are overwhelmed with their job. I recommend that you take the following steps: first, do your homework and research your school district policy about handing in late work when you are absent excused and unexcused. Next, review the syllabus your teacher handed out at the beginning of the school year which details grading and classroom rules and policies. Finally, contact your teacher in their preferred method of communication: in person, email, after class or their office hours. If you do not know their preferred method of communication, ask. Simply approach your teacher and say: “when is a good time to talk with you?” Teachers love to have students ask questions and express interest in their grades. You will find them very responsive if you chose the right time.

Dr. Renae

December 10, 2016December 7, 2016

December Blues

This time of year, when fall leads into winter, always boosts my spirits. It’s during this period of late November and December when there’s a variety of elements I find pleasing. The cooler weather is a big one. Give me low 50’s and 60’s all year-long and I’d be happy. A jog or walk around the neighborhood will not feel any better than it does now.

sports Then there are sports. Baseball is long finished, but hockey and basketball are in full swing, and football is now getting to the good stuff. NFL teams are making their last push for a spot in the playoffs. College bowl games, even meaningless ones, are still fun. NCAA basketball is hitting full stride too. Whatever you like – and I like it all – it’s there in bunches.

With the holidays comes what feels like a collective deceleration of our society, at least a couple of weeks of diversion from the typical routine of the year, a period with some days off, visits to the stores for gifts, maybe some travel. I dig the festive lights around the neighborhoods and even the radio channels dedicated for a few weeks to holiday songs. I was born in the winter and maybe that has something to do with it. I just feel good this time of year.

Unfortunately, many people experience a different mood during these months. Seasonal Depressive Disorder or a milder version sometimes called “winter blues,” is a type of depression that recurs in relation to seasonal changes, and most commonly affects people in the late fall and winter months. Fittingly, December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health’s website, in addition to feelings of depression, this disorder during the winter is characterized by low energy, social withdrawal, and a propensity to overeat (with a particular craving for carbohydrates). The effects of SAD is seen in increasing numbers in populations further from the equator. Women and young adults are more often affected. About ten to 20 percent of Americans may suffer from mild symptoms of winter blues. Fortunately, only one percent of Floridians experience SAD.

Causes include biochemical changes related to the shortening of daylight hours in the winter such as the increased production of melatonin due to more darkness, as well as difficulty regulating serotonin, an important neurotransmitter related to mood.

Some preventative tips are to seek exposure to light and the sunshine, and keep a regular sleep schedule. In addition, as hard as it is this time of year, avoidance of overeating is also recommended.

Seasonal depression is treatable by various methods, including medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, light therapy, and vitamin D supplements. If you know anyone who could benefit from professional treatment related to seasonal depression, there is a wealth of information online that should get them started in the right direction.

Here’s to a joyous and safe holiday season for all our readers.

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December 9, 2016November 16, 2016

Flu Season Means Flu Vaccines

62662-flu-myths-vs-facts-color Flu season is here and health professionals recommend that you get a flu vaccine. The flu shot can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention refers to a study published in 2016 that showed that people 50 years and older who got a flu vaccine reduced their risk of being hospitalized by 57 percent.

The flu vaccine is an important preventative for people with chronic health conditions. The CDC has found that the vaccine has reduced hospitalizations among people with diabetes and chronic lung disease. It reduces the risk of flu-associated acute respiratory infection by about half. The vaccination helps protect women during and after pregnancy and protects the developing baby during pregnancy and for several months after birth.

The flu vaccine can lessen your symptoms if you do get sick. A vaccination protects not only you but the people around you who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, like babies, young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions. The CDC studies show that the vaccine reduces the risk of flu illness by 50 to 60 percent. The effectiveness of the vaccine can range from season to season. Age and health are factors that play an important role in determining the likelihood that the vaccine will provide protection.

The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Traditional flu vaccines known as “trivalent” vaccines are made to protect against three flu viruses; an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and an influenza B virus. There are also flu vaccines made to protect against four flu viruses called “quadrivalent” vaccines. These vaccines protect against the same viruses as the trivalent vaccine and an additional B virus.

The CDC recommends use of injectable influenza vaccines including inactivated influenza vaccines and recombinant influenza vaccines during 2016-2017. To find the nearest place that is offering flu shots, visit flu.gov.

November 3, 2016December 13, 2016

November is Curing Stomach Cancer Month

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In April 2008, Debbie Zelman was enjoying a successful life. At age 40, she was an attorney with a law firm, married to a physician, and had three children. Then she was hit with calamity. Zelman found out she had Stage IV stomach cancer. This cancer was considered incurable, and Zelman was told she had little time to live. She was told that about four percent of people with stomach cancer survived longer than five years.

Debbie began a long and difficult treatment process. She educated herself about stomach cancer and sought the best treatment possible. She has survived but has had eight recurrences and continues with treatment for this difficult disease. November is Curing Stomach Cancer Month and Debbie is working hard to fight this terrible disease.

In 2009, she founded the Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer based in Plantation and is working to help others with stomach cancer. The goals of the Foundation include raising funds for research into innovative, progressive and innovative treatments for this disease; to raise awareness about stomach cancer; and to provide information and assistance to stomach cancer patients and their families and caregivers. In January 2012, Debbie appeared on the Dr. Oz show in a segment on stomach cancer.

“We offer peer to peer support programs where we match patients and caregivers using disease specific criteria,” said Mary-Margaret Killmeyer, program director for the Foundation. “We offer educational opportunities such as symposiums and webinars. We encourage patients with stomach cancer to educate themselves about treatments. We want them to find supportive people who have gone through this disease and can help them by sharing their own experiences.”

Killmeyer said that 26,000 people are diagnosed with stomach cancer each year in the U.S. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide, and the fourth form of cancer death for women worldwide.

There are things people should be aware of regarding stomach cancer.

Gastric cancers – those that begin in the stomach, esophagus or the junctions of these two organs, result in about 37,600 new cancer cases in the U.S. each year and about 25,150 deaths.

Some primary risk factors for stomach cancer include: infection with a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori (H pylori), which is associated with gastric and duodenal ulcers, and chronic indigestion.

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease in which the stomach does not produce the protein necessary for Vitamin B-12 absorption. This condition has been linked to stomach cancer.

Those who have diets heavy in salt, smoked or preserved foods, or low in fruits and vegetables may be at higher risk of stomach cancer. Those who smoke may be at higher risk. Older people are also at greater risk.

The Foundation is encouraging to people to participate in Denim for Debbie on November 2nd. People can speak to their boss, co-workers, friends, etc. to get permission to wear denim/jeans for $5 per person. You collect the proceeds and send them to Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer at Two South University Drive Suite 326, Plantation, Florida 33324.

August 21, 2016July 3, 2019

I Know What Probiotics Are, So What Are Prebiotics?

By Nancy M. Ouhib, MBA, RD/N, LD/N

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Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, our bodies are largely made up of bacteria. Paying attention to our microbial makeup is pretty important. This is not a new concept. In the words of Hippocrates, all disease begins in the gut. Scientists, researchers, and physicians are now paying much more attention to this. The human microbiome is the new buzzword and hopefully we are waking up to the importance of the microbial aspect of our health.

The human microbiome encompasses the bacterial population on the skin, in the mouth, and in the gut. When the gut microbiome or microbial population is out of balance, there is a condition called gut dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is when the beneficial bacteria of the gut have been killed off and more harmful bacteria have been allowed to proliferate in their absence. There is a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut and we always want to help tip the balance in favor of the beneficial microbes because they function in our best interest. There are two substances that can assist us in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and those are probiotics and prebiotics.

Last month I discussed probiotics, what they are, and how they help to maintain digestive health in our gut. This month I will discuss prebiotics. Simply put, prebiotics are the food that the probiotics (good bacteria) in your intestinal tract need to stay alive and flourish. Prebiotics are non-digestible fiber and sugars. The most commonly known prebiotics are fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS.) While their technical names seem long and complicated, these fibers, sugars, and starches have a simple job to do and that is to feed the good guys to maintain that healthy gut flora that we need. Probiotics have the ability to ferment and feed off of these prebiotics.

Good sources of p Grains rebiotics are fresh produce and whole grains. Food sources of these carbohydrates is better than any over the counter supplement and you get all sorts of additional quality nutrition from these foods that you consume. So, steer clear of the supplement aisle and head to the grocery store to pick up the following fresh food choices to feed your healthy gut.

Whole grains such as oats and corn contain non-digestible fiber. Brown rice, whole grain breads, whole wheat pasta, barley, oatmeal, flax, wheat bran, and chia are also good sources of fiber. These should be included in your diet regularly. Nuts are a good source of prebiotic fiber.

Vegetables and fruits also contain that prebiotic benefit that we all need. Asparagus, leeks, artichokes, garlic, carrots, peas, beans, onions, chicory, jicama, broccoli, tomatoes, cauliflower, spinach, kale, and chard are vegetables that have prebiotic fiber. Bananas, blueberries, cherries, apples, pears, oranges, strawberries, cranberries, kiwi, and berries are also good sources.

There is one important point to note in regards to prebiotics. If your gut is not well populated with beneficial bacteria and probiotics, too much of the prebiotics may cause intestinal distress in the form of bloating and gas. Keep in mind that it is probiotics that feed off of, and have the

ability to break down, these fibers and sugars so they must be present. If you have intestinal distress, it may be a sign that you need more probiotic foods in your diet.

So, it should be clear that probiotics and prebiotics exist in your gut in a state of symbiosis. They are present in your intestinal tract to improve the health of your gut microbiome. Purchasing and preparing fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can easily and inexpensively obtain all of this benefit. Happy and healthy shopping.

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August 19, 2016July 3, 2019

Make a Wish

By Martin Lenkowsky

When 14-year-old Coral Springs resident Gilon Kravatsky traveled to New York in May to

see the world-renowned New York Philharmonic Orchestra perform Gustav Holst’s orchestral suite, The Planets, at Lincoln Center, he not only had a backstage pass; he got to take out his French horn and rehearse with them as well.

Plus, there’s a lot more to this story. Gilon – along with his family – were invited guests of the orchestra, courtesy of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. Gilon, who will be entering Douglas High School in the fall, suffers from Chrohn’s disease, a severe inflammatory disease affecting the bowels.

“His wish was to hear and play with the New York Philharmonic,” said his dad, Steven Kravatsky. “He came up with it on his own. What they actually arranged was for him to play with them.”

His father was surprised when Make-A-Wish liaisons told them they’d sponsor a trip for Gilon. He says he – like many people – had been under the mistaken impression that Make-A-Wish only grants wishes to terminally ill children. “It also includes chronic diseases,” Steven said. Not only did the organization send Gilon to New York, they also sent his dad, his mom, Michelle, along with his three siblings, Ari, 22, Rachel, 20, and Yaacov, 6.

“It was a family-oriented experience,” Steven said, adding Make-A-Wish also paid for the family’s side trips to New York’s Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. “All the things Gilon wanted to see,” said Steven.

When the Kravatskys traveled to Lincoln Center they were escorted by chaperones and transported by limousine. The orchestra treated them well, Steven said. “They were a very laid back bunch,” he said. “They made it a special experience for him.”

Gilon had the honor of having lunch with orchestra members. “He met with the conductor and the trombone player, who’s one of the foremost in the world,” said his dad. “They were so nice to him.”

Before they departed South Florida for New York, Gilon received an email from the principal French horn player, containing the sheet music for one of the pieces for The Planets. To prepare, Gilon practiced it with his older brother, Ari, who plays the bassoon. The day prior to the orchestra’s performance, Gilon rehearsed the piece with the band.

And how does Gilon describe his experience? “It was amazing,” he said, “just getting to talk to the players, sit next to them and have lunch with them. Some of the pieces they played were so insane. The way the played them was amazing.”

Gilon switched to the French horn from trumpet in the fifth grade. “If you want to get a music scholarship, there’s a lot less French horn than trumpet or clarinet players,” he said.

As expected, Gilon loved the Big Apple. “There’s a big difference from South Florida,” he said.

One of the people instrumental in getting Gilon his wish was Fran Garfunkel, a volunteer “wish granter” with Make-A-Wish. “I do have a ‘wish partner,’ Martha Carmen, who worked for Gilon’s doctor and recommended him to be a wish child. He met all the qualifications,” Garfunkel said.

She confirmed a wish child no longer has to carry a terminal diagnosis. “That was eons ago,” Garfunkel said. “Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. We’re not just granting wishes to terminally ill children. A majority do survive and go into remission.”

Gilon’s first choice was actually the Chicago Philharmonic, but that didn’t work out. Garfunkel said she suggested the New York Philharmonic. “I had a gut instinct they were going to do it,” she said, “and the New York Philharmonic said, ‘bring him on.’”

According to Steven Kravatsky, Gilon’s condition appears to be stable with the infusion treatments he gets for three hours every six weeks. “That’s how his meds are administered,” his dad said. “You’d never know it looking at him. You wouldn’t know he’s sick.”

In fact, Gilon and brother Ari are driving up to Maine in the middle of July for a camping trip. While there, they plan to go rock climbing and white water rafting.

March 10, 2016October 17, 2018

Fight Against Cancer – Sports Team Rally For Young Parklander

January 20th was officially Adam Fiorello Day in Parkland, Mayor Michael Udine proclaimed. The young Parkland resident, who turned 22 just the day before, is in a fight for his survival. He was diagnosed in December 2013 with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer affecting the soft tissues in the muscles and connective tissue.
The rarity of Adam’s disease cannot be overstated. According to his mother, Heidi Fiorello, a registered nurse, “roughly 200 to 300 children per year contract it and it can affect all children, mostly younger between three to nine years old. The subtype of Adam’s disease affects 50 to 60 children, but he got it before his 20th birthday.”
Adam was first affected in his right ear behind the sinus cavity. His mother describes his ordeal: “He went through 54 weeks of chemotherapy and had hand-neck radiation. At 6-foot-3-inches and 250 pounds, he went down to 175 pounds and couldn’t swallow his own saliva and had a feeding tube.”
January 20th, says his mother, “was a day to celebrate Adam and his courage and then to acknowledge his pro-activity in helping others and speaking to groups. He will know that there is still hope for a miracle and not to give up.”
Having visited Adam in the hospital, local sports teams have rallied around him, including Miami FC soccer coach Alessandro Nesta and Chicago Cubs baseball player Anthony Rizzo and other people at the local event. He was introduced at a Miami Heat basketball game and honored with a jersey in his name in February.
“The city of Parkland honored me, and a whole bunch of people showed up to support me,” Adam says. “Every day is difficult. I have bad days and good days. A bunch of stuff is affecting me. My motto is to never give up. This is God’s plan.”
Last July, Adam suffered a mini-stroke and the family had to move again from Parkland to New York City for treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center with his family and older brother Nicholas, 24, by his side. The cancer has spread to his brain, and doctors predict he will decline quickly. There are no known survivors. But doctors can be proved wrong with the strength and support of his immediate family and many fans on Facebook supporting Team Adam-Parkland and events to rally behind the cause.
“Cycle for Survival.org” events are scheduled in cities around the U.S. for rare pediatric cancers. One event will take place from 11am to 3pm on March 13th at Pine Trails Amphitheater in Parkland. Adam may possibly speak at the event.