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on call Q:
How is
7WINTER SUPERFOODS FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH
Illnesses seem to peak during the winter months. A tapped-out immune system, as well as dry, cold air, makes it easier for common viruses and bacterial infections to spread. As a result, it’s important that men, women and children take every step possible to ward off sickness when the temperature drops. Dietary changes can make a world of difference, and more and more people are including some proven superfoods in their winter diets.
occupational therapy different from
physical therapy?
SHASHANK KRALETI, M.D.
FAMILY MEDICINE • UAMS
1AVOCADO
Avocado has high levels of essential fatty acids and vitamin B6, which play a vital role in the biosynthesis of important neurotransmitters. Foods high in B vita- mins may help counteract some of the symptoms of winter-related depression that many people experience.
2POMEGRANATE
This quirky fruit has vitamins C and K, folate and potassium, and is a good source of fiber. Pomegranates contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain, as well as cut down the risk of strokes. The fruit may also help the body fight viruses.
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antioxidants, and some studies indicate that the spice is a natural antibacterial agent. Cinnamon can also help regulate blood-glucose levels, which is beneficial for those with diabetes.
4PRUNES
Now widely referred to as “dried plums,” prunes are an important source
Occupational therapy and physi-
cal therapy both focus on restoring function to parts of the body, but the ap- proaches are different in many ways.
Physical therapy focuses on restoring mobility and stability that is helpful in walk- ing or climbing stairs, while occupational therapy focuses on improving fine motor skills used in accomplishing everyday tasks, known as “ADLs” (activities of daily living), such as eating with a fork or writing.
Those who would benefit from occu- pational therapy include people who have suffered a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord injury, or those who live with any other neurological condition or injury and need to learn how to bathe, get dressed and do other routine tasks. Arthri- tis patients, those with autism and children struggling with handwriting or developmen- tal delays can also benefit from occupation- al therapy.
Occupational-therapy services typically include an individualized evaluation when an occupational therapist, patient and his or her family determine the patient’s goals; an evaluation of the patient’s home and oth- er environments; and an outcome evalua- tion to ensure that the goals are being met.
What is Crohn’s disease, and is there a cure for it?
Crohn’s disease is one of a group of inflammatory bowel diseases. It’s an inflammation that can affect
any area of the digestive system, from the mouth down.
Although the exact cause of the disease is unknown, it appears to be a result of the body’s immune system acting abnormally. The disease seems to run in some families, and people with Crohn’s disease typically
begin displaying symptoms between ages 13 and 30. A physical examination, lab and imaging tests, and colonoscopies can help with diagnosis of the disease.
There is no cure for Crohn’s, but treat- ment can help control some of the symp- toms, which include rectal bleeding, di- arrhea, weight loss and fever. Related complications range from anemia and skin rashes to fatigue and arthritis. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Medicines, nutrition supplements and sometimes surgery may alleviate some of the effects of the disease. Surgery can ad- dress some of the bowel obstructions and abscesses that can occur with Crohn’s.
I think I have a hernia. Will I have to have surgery?
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue bulges through a
weak area of muscle and is more common than many people realize. Most hernias oc- cur in the abdomen, and they can affect men, women and children.
One thing is for certain: A hernia will not go away on its own, even if it doesn’t seem to get worse for months or even years. Hernias can become dangerous and even life-threatening without treatment and should not be ignored. Treatment usually involves surgery, but not always.
Treatment depends on the type, location and severity of the hernia. A hernia that can be easily reduced or pushed back in is not an immediate danger to your health, although it can be very painful. Whether you need surgery and what type of surgery are questions only your doctor can answer. Some hernia surgeries only last 25 minutes and are outpatient procedures with very little risk of complications.
of boron, a trace mineral that may help prevent osteoporosis. High in antioxi- dants, prunes help the body fight a vari- ety of illnesses.
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in the fight against cancer, as it contains phytochemicals that can help protect the body against cancer-causing free radi- cals. Cabbage is also a good source of dietary fiber, which can stimulate a slug- gish digestive system.
6BUTTERNUT SQUASH
This vegetable is packed with carot- enoids, which are stellar antioxidants. The starches in this squash have also been found to have anti-inflammatory prop- erties.
7CHESTNUTS
Chestnuts are worthy of inclusion in anyone’s diet. Unlike many nuts, chestnuts are relatively low in fat but have high lev- els of protein. They’re also packed with vitamin C and B vitamins.
— Courtesy of Metro Creative Services
CABBAGE
This vegetable may be a key element
CINNAMON
Cinnamon contains high levels of
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS
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ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE // HEALTHBEAT // SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2014 3