BE Healthy - July-Aug 2010
Content
July/August 2010
BE
Reach for the sky! Functional exercise makes it possible
Summer hair rescue
Enjoy locally grown food
The Market Report
Choosing child care
fresh& sweet
Tips for that important decision
Your skin cells: plumped or fizzled?
UV rays hazardous to eyes bug bite
SHADES OF GRAY
relief
KINGS Pharmacy
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3415 Laurel, Beaumont, TX 77707
2 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 | Volume 1, Issue 3
Contents
10
EATING RIGHT EAT YOUR WATER?
A top dermatologist’s advice By Cheryl Rose
6
BEAUTY BEWARE SUMMER HAIR!
Tips for fighting the elements By Cathleen Cole
12
SPOTLIGHT FARM-FRESH FARE
Regional flavor comes to market By Kirsten Matthew
15
INCREASE YOUR PEACE CHILD CARE CHOICES
What’s right for your family? By Cathleen Cole
22
SAFETY BUG OFF!
Take the bite out of summer By Todd Senters
20
GET MOVING BEND, LIFT, REACH
Real ways we use our bodies By Kirsten Matthew
19
SAFETY VISOR YOUR VISION
Take precautions for eye health By Todd Senters BE Healthy
4
EDITOR’S LETTER BE TASTE-FULL
Vegging out this summer By Cheryl Rose | July/August 2010 3
from the editor
BE
Editorial Executive Editor CHERYL ROSE Contributing Writers CATHLEEN COLE KIRSTEN MATTHEW TODD SENTERS Photography Contributing Photographers SILVIA C. MCCLAIN LEE E. STINSON JUDY STOKELY Art Executive Director, Digital Solutions and Productivity ANNA SINGLETARY Manager, Creative Media BLANCHE BOND Supervisor, Creative Media DON GRAY Lead Graphic Designer, Creative Media KRISTEN FLORES Contributing Designer KATIE GUIDROZ Advertising To advertise in BE Healthy 409.880.0700 Contact Us BE Healthy 380 Main Street Beaumont, TX 77701 409.880.0700
to disPlAy thE mAgAzinE AT YOUR BUSINESS LOCATION, pLEASE CALL 409.838.2829 sUbmissions TO SUBMIT AN EVENT, ORGANIZATION |OR pERSON FOR CONSIDERATION IN AN UpCOMING ISSUE, SUBMIT BY USpS AT ADDRESS ABOVE.
BE taste-full
o me, there is nothing that symbolizes summer more than a ripe, red, homegrown tomato. Slice it up with a bit of salt, or maybe some balsamic or a sprinkle of basil leaves…life is good. Before moving to Texas, I grew tomatoes in the backyard and had even begun experimenting with some heirloom varieties. I made the attempt when we first arrived in Beaumont, but got quickly discouraged by drought and critters. Now I’d much rather just buy the product of someone else’s hot and patient work. With the opening of the Beaumont Farmer’s Market, there is another great source to get delicious produce and products grown right in our area. My family was part of the big crowd on opening day and many Saturday mornings since. There is always such a good vibe at a food market. It attracts people who are truly appreciative of the benefits of fresh food and the labor required to provide it. As Americans, we are reminded repeatedly that we should incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into our diets. In summertime, it’s hard to find an excuse not to indulge in the abundance of beans, peas, peppers, cucumbers, lettuces, melons and more. Take a trip to one of the local markets and talk to the vendors about how to cook a vegetable you’ve never tried. Dr. Howard Murad, the internationally-known dermatologist and researcher, provides yet another way to think about the importance of fruits and vegetables to our bodies — water. Could eating a cucumber or a banana do more for your body’s hydration than drinking a glass of pure water? Find out more in the article on p. 10. Before we know it, the long summer days will speed up with the back-to-school rush. If you have school-age children, be sure to check the current vaccination requirements. Start a bedtime and eating routine to ease your kids back into school hours a week or two in advance. Consider what you’re going to pack in that new lunch kit — starting with some fruits and veggies!
T
Cheryl Rose, Executive Editor
A division of hearst newspapers Publisher BILL OFFILL
on our cover
Be part of keeping Southeast Texas green! Recycle this magazine.
Photography: Silvia C. McClain Adorable Olivia Daleo, the daughter of Stephanie and Bernie Daleo of Beaumont, was a terrific model for us. She had a perfect smile in every shot – even when we got interrupted by a summer rain shower. Olivia is 6 years old, soon to turn 7 in August. Thus far
she’s lost three teeth — maybe four by the time you read this! She tells us she does like watermelon, but given the choice, she’d prefer candy. When the shoot was over, we asked what she thought of it all. She said she loved it — maybe even more than candy! Our thanks to Olivia, her mom and her big sister, Giuliana, for helping out.
4 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
Do You Have Any of These Symptoms?
• Swollen legs or ankles? • Muscle cramps, tender, aching legs? • Tiredness, itching, burning, tingling, throbbing, or heaviness in your legs? • Discoloration or peeling of the skin, especially around your ankles? • Non-Healing sores on your lower legs? • Bulging, rope-like veins or spider veins? These may be symptoms of venous reflux disease or venous insufficiency. This common medical disease affects over 25 million people in the United States and often goes undiagnosed and untreated. Now there is an effective, minimally invasive procedure that is performed at Vein Centers of Texas, by Beaumont’s leading vein surgeon; Peter B. Morgan, M.D. Our highly specialized and experienced staff makes comprehensive venous care our priority. We develop relationships with our patients and take time to educate them and then continue to follow them until we have successfully treated all of their problematic veins.
If you recognize any of these symptoms, call today for an appointment and consultation.
#7 Bayoubrandt Drive, Beaumont, Texas 77706 • Phone – 409.832.8323 • www.veincentersoftexas.com
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3282 College St., Beaumont (409) 832-8600
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 5
beauty
De-stress your
Tresses
By Cathleen Cole
ou may have seen them on your summer vacation to the coast — those surfer girls and beach boys with bushy, sun-bleached hairdos. Sun and sea salt can wreak havoc on your hair. And for those of you who like to relax at the pool, especially you blondies, chlorine can turn your hair an unlovely shade of algae green. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With the right cut and proper care, your hair can be cool and stylish all summer long.
6 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
Y
Healthy Hair Tips “Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to hair care,” said Lydia Light, an instructor in Lumberton High School’s cosmetology department. To keep the pool’s chlorine from soaking into your hair, Light recommends wetting it thoroughly with tap water so it will already be saturated and won’t soak up the heavily chlorinated water. Or you can use a leave-in conditioner with sunscreen on your hair before you go swimming. And don’t forget your hat. “That’s the best protection from the sun,” Light said. To wash out chlorine build-
up, Light recommends shampooing and then adding about a tablespoon of baking soda to your soapy hair. Lather that in and rinse it out thoroughly. “This is good for any type of buildup on the hair — chlorine, hair spray, even excessive conditioner,” she explained. If you want to give your locks a lift, Light advised, eat a healthy diet and avoid cigarette smoke, which can leave yellowing deposits on hair. And put away the blow dryer and flat iron for a while. Excessive heat can be very damaging. “Give your hair a rest from these heat sources,” she recommended. “That does help.”
“In order to have healthy hair, we need to have a healthy diet to support the growth and development of hair.”
Mary Ellen Vivrett, registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager, Baptist Beaumont Hospital
Feed Your Hair “Nutrients are received and absorbed at the hair bulb, which is part of the hair root under the skin,” said Mary Ellen Vivrett, a registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager at Baptist Beaumont Hospital. “The hair bulb takes the nutrients and generates new hair. In order to have healthy hair, we need to have a healthy diet to support the growth and development of hair.”
According to Vivrett, hair needs sufficient protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin, iron, copper and zinc. Without it, hair might become dull and dry and progressive hair loss can occur. (See list below for diet recommendations.) Proper hydration is also important for hair growth, so Vivrett recommends drinking plenty of water and limiting caffeinated beverages, which can be dehydrating, to 24 ounces per day.
Diet for Pretty Hair
Proteins: Lean meats including beef, chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, fish and shellfish. Plant proteins include vegetables, dried beans and peas, soybeans and tofu. Vitamin A: Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, mangos, cantaloupe, dried apricots, milk, cheese, egg yolks and liver.
78 Years of Personal, Professional Service.
Vitamin C: Guava, papaya, red bell peppers, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, green bell peppers, grapefruit, tomatoes, mangos, tangerines, cabbage and spinach. Biotin: Egg yolks, carrots, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, chard, onions, cabbage, cauliflower, cow’s milk, goat’s milk, raspberries, strawberries, oats, walnuts and halibut. Iron: Clams, oysters, chicken liver, beans, tofu, beets, greens, chard, spinach, potatoes with skins and tomatoes. You can get iron-fortified cereals, breads and crackers, too. Copper and zinc: Oysters, organ meats, shellfish, poultry, legumes and whole grains. >>
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| July/August 2010 7
Easy, Breezy Looks for Summer
Stylist Alicia Taylor, owner of Hot Headz Hair Studio in Beaumont, has some suggestions for easy, breezy looks for many types of hair.
straight curly frizzy thick thin long
“Lots of women are going with braids in the summer,” Taylor said. But they’re not just doing a single braid encompassing all the hair, she added. Try taking a lock or two from the sides and braiding just them. It gives some texture to the rest of the hair that is left loose. “With long curly hair, you want some layers,” Taylor advised. A bobbed, blunt cut works well for short curly hair, she said. Scrunch up the curls for a soft touch. “Silkening gloss” products are a must-have for hair that’s prone to frazzle. “It will control the frizz and add shine,” Taylor said. “It’s perfect for going to the beach and for high-humidity days.” Texturing shears help thin unmanageably thick hair. Think of it like pruning the shrubs. “Texturing gets the bulk out,” Taylor explained. “If you want thicker-looking hair, cut it short,” Taylor advised. Also, invest in thickening gels and shampoos to boost your hair’s volume. Pulling your hair back off your face with a clip for some height at the top and putting the length in a ponytail is a cute, classic look. Another way to go is with a scrunchy, layered style. “That’s way easy,” Taylor said.
easy styles For boys, Taylor suggests a fade cut with gel on top to spike it up. “That’s a classic cut girls, forget the hair is parted for men, that’s easy.” ForSoutheast Texas bangs. Their cut that’s easyon the side and flows to the shoulder. Most men want a and cool (as in, women, “They want it off the ear and off the collar!” Taylor laughed. An easy summernot hot). style for boys and women is a smooth, shoulder-length layered cut that can be pulled back into a ponytail girls on those hot summer days. •
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Lipo-Ex® helps
| BE Healthy 8 July/August 2010
Melt away stubborn fat and reduces cellulite. It also erases stretch marks, diminishes wrinkles and tightens skin. It’s time to live in your skin instead of covering it up!
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Lipo-Ex® of Beaumont • 4224 College St. Beaumont • 409-347-7886
Go Bananas!
healthy choices
An easy way to grill up something surprisingly good
Adding bananas to your summer grilling routine is a fun way to eat fruit. You can grill them in their peels while the barbecue coals are still hot or add peeled slices to a tasty kabob. From kid-friendly desserts to grown-up dishes with a tropical twist, go bananas on the grill. For more banana recipes and serving suggestions, go to www.dole.com/bananas. — Family Features
Island Kabobs with Tropical Fruit Salsa Prep: 10 minutes Grill time: 10 minutes Makes: 4 servings 2 ripe, firm bananas, peeled, each cut into 6 pieces, plus 1 ripe banana, peeled and diced 12 chunks of pineapple 16 extra large or jumbo shrimp, shelled and deveined 1 green or red bell pepper, cut into 8 pieces 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ teaspoon ground allspice 1 mango, peeled and diced 1 tablespoon chopped mint 1 green onion, minced 2 to 3 teaspoons minced jalapeño pepper
Thread banana pieces, pineapple, shrimp and bell pepper pieces equally onto skewers. Whisk together lime juice, oil and allspice in small bowl. Brush 2 tablespoons over kabobs. Combine remaining marinade with diced banana, mango, mint, green onion and jalapeño pepper; place in a serving dish. Grill kabobs over medium high heat 8 to 10 minutes, turning once or until the shrimp are opaque. Arrange the kabobs on top of the salsa.
How to Store Bananas Remove bananas from plastic produce bag and store at room temperature. The warmer it is, the faster the bananas will ripen. • To slow ripening, refrigerate (peel will turn black but the fruit inside will be fresh and ripe). Bananas can be frozen once the banana is peeled and stored in a freezer bag until ready to use (use a bit of fresh lemon juice to reduce browning). • If bananas are too green, place them in a brown paper bag, in a warm dry area (but not in direct sunlight) for a day or two to encourage ripening. If there is still not enough yellow appearing on the peel, place a ripe apple in the bag with the bananas. Source: Dole
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 9
eating right
“Water is the best life-preserver”
Essential Ingredient
The
L
By Cheryl Rose
et’s say you have four new tires on your car. Over time, the air gradually leaks out of the tires and your ride becomes bumpy and soon the whole car begins to experience trouble. Perhaps you pull over and pump the tires up with air, but because there are tiny holes, the air just leaks out again. In order to function properly, your tires need a re-tread. Then you need to avoid dirt roads and nails.
Using analogies, Dr. Howard Murad, an internationally-known physician, researcher, professor, pharmacist and author, simplifies complex biologic chemistry. In this story, the tires represent the cells of your body, which are plump and full of water in your youth, but which gradually become dehydrated as you age. “When we begin, we are 75 to 80 percent water,” Murad said. “As we age, the level drops to almost zero.”
10 March/April 2010
| BE Healthy
With so much else to worry about, do we need to be concerned about the level of water in our cells? Picture the grape versus the raisin. Suddenly, nourishing our cells takes on a new importance. Every part of the body is made up of cells. “If we look at our society, we may be living longer, but we have more chronic disease,” Murad said. “I asked myself, how could I make every person healthier? The answer is by encouraging more water into the cells, so they will function as if they are more youthful and healthy.” Gulping down the recommended eight glasses a day of tap or bottled water won’t refill your cells. “Just drinking water doesn’t repair the cell membrane or reduce free radicals,” Murad explained. “If I could encourage you to do one thing different to change your health, it would be to eat your water rather than drink it.”
Remembering the tire analogy, the first step is to repair the leaks. This is where understanding the chemistry of what we eat becomes important. “Remember, before there was medicine, there was food,” Murad said. Certain foods provide better benefits for cellular health. Murad explained that as people age and experience diseases, the outer shell of the cell, the membrane, gets drier and thinner. The membrane is made up of amino acids and lipids. The goal then is to strengthen and repair those internal cell membranes through diet. Murad listed eggs, seeds and beans as embryonic foods rich in protein and amino acids. Whole grains provide the building blocks for collagen. Externally, the skin is the largest organ of the body. “The skin is important because it’s our shield from the environment,” Murad said. “It works to create a barrier to ultraviolet light, pollution, wind, dust, microbes. Your skin is like a shingle roof on a house: A brand new roof protects you, but then it gets holes in it and it can’t protect you as well.” Murad said there are methods to “Scotchguard the shingles” by topically introducing lipids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Lastly, watch out for nails. Murad said stress reduction is another key component for an inclusive health approach. Murad said that it is important to know that it is never too late or too early to improve cellular health. “Once a month you get new skin, every six weeks you get a new liver,” he said. “About every 10 weeks you’re a different person.” • “If I could encourage you to do one thing different to change your health, it would be to eat your water rather than drink it.”
411 on your
The liquid water we drink doesn’t stay in the body long, whereas the water we eat does. “Raw fruits and vegetables have structured water that penetrates the cell membranes better,” Murad explained. There are additional benefits to eating water. For example, when you eat a cucumber or watermelon, both comprised predominantly of water, you’re also getting nutrients, anti-inflammatories and antioxidants, he noted. Murad believes there are steps that people can take to improve their cellular water. He espouses a three-pronged approach of skin, mouth and brain, or topical, internal and emotional self-care.
Dr. Murad has written a new book that describes his findings and recommendations in detail. “The Water Secret” will be available August 30.
BE Healthy
th e
H20
What is the state of your cellular water? Better or worse than others your age? The Christus Healthy Living Spa in Beaumont offers an inclusive health evaluation developed by Dr. Murad that measures wrinkles, spots, the integrity of the skin, metabolic rate, blood pressure, body fat, muscle mass and gives you the data on how much water you have in your cells. Ruthie Robinson, a division director of Women’s and Children’s Services at Christus St Elizabeth, had the evaluation when she turned 50 last year. “As a nurse, I know what you’re supposed to do,” she acknowledged. “What I really wanted to know was where was I – my percentages, my benchmarks — how good have I been doing and what might I need to do differently.” Robinson said her initial assessment was strong for her age group. She went back eight weeks later after following the suggested guidelines for supplements, skin care regime, diet and exercise and the results were even stronger. She continues to go back for periodic assessments.
| July/August 2010 11
spotlight
photography by silvia C. MCClain
Fresh Flavors from the Farm
By Kirsten Matthew
T
he soft, early-morning summer glow covers the corner of Beaumont’s College and Main streets as farmers in straw hats and bib overalls begin arriving in pickups with their farm-fresh fare. Nutritious, locally grown foods — fresh vegetables, berries, jams, herbs, beef and cheeses — turn makeshift stands and tailgates into a tantalizing show of summer’s harvest for the new Beaumont Farmer’s Market.
culture and one of the oldest means of direct marketing by farmers, farmers markets have endured in their grassroots effort to connect communities with the benefits of eating local produce, including strengthening the local economy by redirecting consumers’ food dollars to local growers. Farmers at the Beaumont market have a fine opportunity to educate the community about local food crops as well as sustainable farming practices on the rich lands of Southeast Texas. “One of the best parts of the whole venture is meeting the farmers,” Parmer said. “They are multi-talented, hard-working, humble, resourceful, warm, welcoming people.” There is both a health and a flavor benefit to fresh produce, Stedman advocates. “It’s more nutritious for you when it’s picked the
In this bountiful region, a lifestyle of healthy eating is as viable as its year-round growing season. The colorful summer squash, zucchini, tomatoes and beans of early to midsummer come chock full of flavor, the staples of summer’s coolest recipes. As the seasons change, so will the crops area farmers sell, giving way to the signature tastes of autumn. “We wanted to connect the community with the freshest locally-grown produce we could find in a 150-mile radius,” said Becki Stedman, co-founder of the nonprofit market. Stedman connected with friend Sarah Parmer one day in the garden center at Lowe’s and conceived the notion. “We discovered what a great desire there is to have this market back in the city.” A centuries-old tradition steeped in world
| BE Healthy
Saturday Outing
Wholesome, nutritious, farm-raised goodness is available Saturdays through October from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., rain or shine. For more information, call 409.656.4113 or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/Beaumont-FarmersMarket.
12 July/August 2010
Top left: Beaumont Farmer’s Market co-founders Becki Stedman and Sarah Parmer. Top right: Sutton’s Sweets of Buna. Middle: Spindletop Steakhouse chef Chuck Harris responds to the challenge of a timed event, inventing a recipe from products found at the market. Bottom left: Vendors Bobby and Judy Baggett of Buna. >>
BE Healthy
| July/August 2010 13
night or day before and it tastes better,” she said. On market morning, Sutton’s Sweets hangs up its shingle for the sale of jellies and jams of fresh blueberry, mayhaw, fig and pear. Fragrant basil, sage, oregano, mint and an array of other delightful seasonings sell quickly at the Herb Society of America’s tent. “This climate is ideal for the growing of any number of these zero-calorie, organic flavor enhancers,” Emily Baize, a market vendor, noted. Opening day in late May saw a sellout of 10 dozen farmfresh eggs in 20 minutes for Julia and Bobby of Baggett’s Farm in Buna. “He’s living his dream as a farmer,” Julia Baggett said. Bobby Baggett’s 75 chickens produce yard eggs of fabulous blues and greens, rare finds for any inquisitive heretofore brown-and-white-only shoppers. Over at Atkinson’s Farm, volunteer Linda Morvant advocates her healthy lifestyle choice for natural foods. “I like to know where my food comes from,” she said. “I prefer organic, non-genetically modified foods with no hormones or antibiotics.” At Sztraky Farms of Silsbee’s booth, 75 pounds of true blackberries - known for their flavor, size, overall quality and sturdiness – were picked from the vine just hours before. The one- and two-pound containers, popping with goodness, were quickly carried off to homes throughout Southeast Texas. “Get here early!” Donna Spires of Nederland advised, as she browsed the market, toting her two young grandchildren around in search of her favorite fare. “We like to buy local. You can’t beat a fresh vegetable.” •
Fresh Alternatives: From Pasture to Plate
For Gentz Cattle Company farmer James Gentz of Winnie, raising Longhorn beef cattle has heart-healthy benefits for consumers. Tender and great tasting, Gentz said it is a leaner cut of meat that has less calories, fat and cholesterol than chicken. “This is definitely good news for a healthy lifestyle,” he said. Packages of T-bones, rib eyes, sirloin, roasts and more – with no added hormones, antibiotics or additives – sell like hotcakes. At Miabella Farm of New Caney, goat farmer Michelle Gasaway peddles her Chevre soft goat cheese. The creamy and tangy palatal experience comes plain or blended with a variety of harmonious herbs. Crumbled or marinated feta cheese, lotions and goat milk soap are also available. Gasaway’s goats also produce milk, which she said is higher in calcium and lower in cholesterol than regular milk, but you’ll have to visit her and her 26 goats down on the farm to get that.
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14 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
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increase your peace
Delightful
Finding the right child-care provider will make your little one, and you, happy
Day Care
Y
By Cathleen Cole
ou want the best child care for your baby, and rightly so. Recent results of a study funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development show that low-quality child care from infancy to 4½ years can have a lasting impact, causing behavior and academic problems through age 15. The research implies the effect of low-quality care can last a lifetime. >>
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July/August 2010 15
Do Your Homework How do you find highquality child care? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services recommends doing your research, preferably several months in advance. What are you and your child’s needs? Do you have a full-time job and require fulltime day care? Or do you just want part-time care that can be accomplished with a preschool or mother’s-day-out program? Maybe your schedule is so flexible that a reliable sitter a few times a week will do. Perhaps a live-in nanny is the best option to help you manage your demanding career and your children’s needs. Once you’ve determined the kind of care your situation warrants, you can narrow your search. When you have a list of centers or individuals you are considering, start your research. If you are looking at daycare facilities, call and ask for informational materials they can mail you or, if available, check out their websites. If the providers seem to meet your needs, make appointments to visit them. Take a notepad and ask questions about basic safety and sanitary procedures, caregiver training and criminal background checks, discipline, naps, snacks, play time and learning time. Tour the facility, meet the caregivers and watch how they interact with the children. Note whether the facility is clean and organized or dirty and chaotic. It matters. Once you’ve narrowed your list even further, take your child with you for another visit and see how the caregivers interact with him or her. If you are looking for an individual to care for your child at home, make sure the prospective sitter offers recent references. Check them all out. It’s also wise to invest in a criminal background check. Based in Beaumont, The Professional Nanny Source (pronanny.com) lets you choose
16 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
“Good child-care arrangements can improve the daily lives of both children and their parents.”
Oney Fitzpatrick, associate professor of psychology, Lamar University
from pre-screened applicants for full-time or part-time caregivers. Their motto: “Arriving by umbrella, not broomstick.” Child Development and Day Care “Good child-care arrangements can improve the daily lives of both children and their parents,” said Oney Fitzpatrick, an associate professor of psychology at Lamar University who specializes in developmental psychology. “Generally speaking, children in high-quality day care have higher levels of success when they enter school than those in lower-quality centers.” According to Fitzpatrick, research shows that being cared for by providers with more education and training helps children be more cooperative, stick with tasks and become ready for school. Trained providers understand how children grow and learn and know how to offer the materials and activities that are most appropriate. Research also indicates, he said, that smaller group sizes work best. Generally, the childcare quality is higher as the group size gets Oney Fitzpatrick smaller. This is particularly important for infants and younger children. “High-quality centers have ratios as low as one adult to three children for infants and toddlers,” Fitzpatrick said. Many researchers suggest that infants need to remain with a parent, Fitzpatrick noted. But there are a few advantages to infant day care if this is not an option. In a quality child-care situation, children will learn there are many people who can take care of them. They are stimulated by seeing other babies and get used to sleeping in a not-so-quiet environment. On the down side, studies show children in day care get sick more often because of exposure to more germs. Also, many day-care centers have a high staff turnover rate, which interferes with the consistency of care. Then there’s the option of at-home care. “Private nannies can be a complicated choice because a nanny or babysitter requires no background check unless found through an agency,” Fitzpatrick said. “However, nannies are good choices if they are found through an agency, are educated in child development, have training in CPR and can pass a thorough background check.” For the toddler, there’s preschool where ideas such as turntaking and non-violence are reinforced in a setting with other children. “Quality child care offers activities that are appropriate for each child’s age, interests and abilities,” Fitzpatrick said. In a quality program, the room is divided into sections to invite small-group activities for both quiet and active play. According to Fitzpatrick, common problems in children who have not attended preschool are an inability to pay attention to the teacher, talking at inappropriate times, inattention to the task at hand, expecting other children to defer to their wants and opinions while not being willing to reciprocate and not really understanding why they should have to take turns. “The years of early childhood are a time of tremendous growth in the areas of physical, emotional, intellectual and social development,” Fitzpatrick said. “Children need the freedom to explore and learn about the world while still having a solid foundation that is ‘home.’ The effectiveness of the socialization process will ultimately determine how well a child will fit into an everchanging society. The quality of early child care can either assist or hinder this process.” •
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Child Care Licensing oversees the licensing and inspection of child-care venues. Check out its website for tips on researching your options. It includes sample questions to ask and a checklist to take with you on your visits to different facilities. There’s also a link to search for information on specific child-care providers. www.dfps. state.tx.us/Child_Care/Other_Child_Care_Information/ Exploring_Options.asp
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BE Healthy | July/August 2010 17
Ban the Rays
Beware of sun exposure for eyes
By Todd Senters
safety
“Everywhere I go, I see moms covering their kids with sunscreen, but what about the eyes?” questions Dr. Peter Cass, an optometrist with Beaumont Family Eye Care. As you enjoy your outdoor activities, don’t forget to take a few precautionary steps to make this summer a healthy one for your eyes. Whether you are planning a trip to the beach or an amusement park, playing sports, or just simply laying by the pool, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light can cause harmful, lasting effects.
18 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
“When going outdoors, you need to remember to protect your eyes by wearing a hat with a brim and a good pair of sunglasses, or prescription glasses that offer 100 percent UV protection.”
Dr. Peter Cass, optometrist Beaumont Family Eye Care
The Culprit Ultraviolet light, UV, is a form of energy released by the sun that is not visible to the human eye. “UV light is divided into three categories, UV-A, UV-B and UV-C,” Cass said. “Most UV light does not reach the Earth; it is filtered by our atmosphere. However, some of this light passes through; UV-A and UV-B, in particular, can harm the eyes with prolonged exposure.” UV-B is the form of light energy that can cause sunburn if the skin is left unprotected. Similarly, Cass said that UV-B (as well as UV-A) is often attributed with causing several serious eye conditions, including macular degeneration and cataract formation. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, AAO, macular degeneration is progressive damage (thinning) to the center of the retina, the back part of the eye, which can eventually lead to vision loss. AAO describes cataract formation as clouding or discoloration of the lens of the eye. A Clouded Lens “Most people will develop cataracts as they age,” said Dr. Richard “Tony” Levacy, an ophthalmologist with the Eye Centers of Southeast Texas. “This is one of the most common eye disorders we encounter.” Fortunately, Levacy explained, there have been many advancements in replacement lens technology. “If someone comes to me with a reduced quality of life due to cataracts, I will usually recommend surgery,” he said. Cataract surgery involves
A Dim View “Macular degeneration is classified as being either dry-type or wet-type,” Levacy explained. “Dry-type is the milder form. A combination of vitamins, including A, E, C, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin has been shown to slow progression at this stage of the disease.” Until recently, there was little hope to reverse the effects of macular degeneration. “The more advanced form, wet-type macular degeneration, is now being treated with a medication named Lucentis, or a similar medication, Avastin, which was initially developed to fight cancer,” Levacy said. Both medications have proven to be effective in treating macular degeneration in those people who are most at risk of losing their eyesight, he said. Protect Your Peepers “The best thing about the potential for eye damage related to UV light exposure is that it is preventable,” Cass said. “When going outdoors,
Dr. Cass examines Kasidy Adkins’ eyes. Children need to wear sun protection for their eyes just as adults do.
Dr. Peter Cass of Beaumont Family Eye Care provided these tips for eye health and safety: Protect Eyes from UV light: • • • • • • • • • Wear a wide-brimmed hat Hats can absorb up to 50 percent of UV light Prescription lenses should be coated with UV protection Prescription lenses should be photochromic, or transition lenses, to adjust to light exposure Sunglasses should be rated to absorb 100 percent UV light Sunglasses or prescription glasses should be polarized to reduce glare with limited color distortion Avoid sunglasses that do not state exact percentage of UV rays absorbed Polycarbonate lenses provide the most UV protection Swimming masks and goggles should be coated with UV protection
Ultraviolet Light Facts: • UV-A and UV-B can be harmful to the eyes • UV-C is almost completely absorbed by the atmosphere • UV-B is linked to cataract formation and macular degeneration • Stronger between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Stronger at higher altitudes • Stronger closer to the equator • Stronger in open spaces
BE Healthy
| July/August 2010 19
photography by LEE E. STINSON
dissolving the clouded lens and inserting a replacement artificial lens. According to Levacy, all replacement lenses used in cataract surgery contain a UV protective coating. “Lenses are more sophisticated than they used to be,” he said. “We can implant a lens to correct astigmatism, or even implant a new-generation multi-focal lens to improve near and distance vision. Some people are opting for lens replacement surgery, even in the absence of cataracts.”
you need to remember to protect your eyes by wearing a hat with a brim and a good pair of sunglasses, or prescription glasses that offer 100 percent UV protection.” When buying sunglasses, the amount of UV protection should be listed by the manufacturer, he stated. “Don’t be as concerned with how dark the lenses are; the UV coating is clear, so lighter tinted lenses can still provide complete protection,” Cass assured.
Also, UV light can reflect off of water and shiny surfaces. It is a good idea to wear protective sunglasses or a UV-coated mask or goggles when you will be in or near water. Damage to the eyes caused by exposure to ultraviolet light is cumulative and increases over time. As you and your family get out in the sun this summer, don’t overlook eye protection for children. Keep their future bright by wearing shades! •
get moving
Core Value
Functional exercise trains our bodies to handle real-life situations
By Kirsten Matthew
20 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
photography by JUDY STOKELY
ou might appear toned, tight and ready for the beach, but are you really prepared to lift your toddler out of the car seat or reach up on your tippy toes for something on the top shelf of the kitchen cabinet? Functional fitness and functional exercise are the latest answer for honing in on your body’s inner core. Originating in rehabilitation, functional exercises involve mostly weight-bearing activities targeting the muscle groups in the abdomen and the back.
Y
“Anyone of any age can do functional exercises,” assured Mary B. Scott, a personal trainer at Christus Health & Wellness Center. “As we age, we’re healthier if we have maintained functional exercise. You want to focus on engaging the core so that it’s useful for training the body to handle real-life situations.” The key is integration, teaching all muscles to work together, rather than isolating them to work separately. You can literally choose from thousands of strength training, functional training and flexibility exercises. The basic types of these exercises — including squatting, bending, lunging, pushing, pulling, twisting and gait — work like a charm to increase strength and decrease joint pain. There are a variety of tools to help you get a little more functional, including dumbbells, exercise balls and pulley systems although Scott emphasized that you can do functional exercises anywhere, anytime. “You can use anything at home ... a can of soup, a can of vegetables … anything with the equivalent weight to a hand weight,” she said. Olympic athletes even use functional exercise training, which can readily be tailored to specific sports — from basketball or soccer to running or football. “They’re also a great way for pregnant women to maintain exercise,” Scott noted. “They can shorten delivery time, decrease recovery time and support optimal weight.” Scott reinforced that all aspects of fitness, such as weight bearing, flexibility and cardiovascular, are still necessary for overall health. The benefits of functional exercise training — better muscular balance and joint flexibility, increased strength and less risk of injury — are long-lasting. “People need to know this type of exercise is going to take them into healthier, happier, older years.” •
“You want to focus on engaging the core so that it’s useful for training the body to handle real-life situations.” — Mary B. Scott, personal trainer
Home Equipment
Mary B. Scott and her daughter, Tyler, demonstrate some functional poses. Using a hula hoop, perform an overhead press with a side stretch.
Agility
Practice a side-shuffle step to increase balance while passing a ball for agility.
Balance
Stepping heel-totoe, raise the ball overhead, and then alternate ball position to down, outstretched and back to overhead. For an added challenge, walk backward toeto-heel using the same ball positions.
Wrist Curls
(opposite page)
Using a household broom, curl the wrists up and down, doing three sets of 10 reps.
BE Healthy
| July/August 2010 21
focus on health
Ow!
Stop insect bites from bugging you
By Todd Senters (bites) per pound can prove fatal,” he said. Blackwell pointed out that this is why children are especially susceptible; smaller bodies tolerate fewer bites before showing signs of a serious reaction. Some simple solutions to avoid being bitten include insect repellent on your skin, as well as your surroundings, avoid wearing fragrances for outdoor activities and avoid areas with standing water. Check the area for active nests and spray with an insecticide. If you encounter a wasp, bee, hornet or similar insect, simply walk away; threatening motions will significantly increase the likelihood of being stung. An added measure of caution will help ensure you are able to enjoy your outdoor activities this summer. •
Rebecca Blackwell provided this two-step combo for treating bites or stings at home. Step 1: Salt Paste Mix 2 tsp. of table salt with 2 oz. of water. Spread on bite and allow to dry. Sodium will help pull out remaining venom. Paste will flake away when completely dry. Step 2: Ointment Mixture After applying the salt paste, treat with a mixture of the following: Triple antibiotic ointment Benadryl ointment Hydrocortisone ointment Eucerin cream Apply three times a day for symptom relief. Seek medical attention if not improved within two days.
here is a buzz in the air; unfortunately, it isn’t the release of the latest summer blockbuster. It is the return of the unwelcome guests that can wreck havoc on your outdoor plans. Southeast Texas is inundated with various forms of flying and crawling insects and arachnids. These six- and eight-legged critters can show up at the most inopportune time. You can’t avoid them, so what do you do if you’re bitten or stung? According to Rebecca Blackwell, a physician assistant at Baptist Convenient Care Clinic, many common bites and stings can be managed at home.“It is summer and bug bites are going to happen,” she said. “I see several patients a day in the clinic for various insect and spider bites. There are some things you can do at home to minimize itching and help the bite heal faster.” Regardless of what type of insect (or arachnid) may have bitten you, the first thing to do is to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, Blackwell advised. “This will help remove dirt and bacteria and minimize the likelihood of infection,” she said. “If you were stung by an insect that leaves an imbedded stinger, you should gently remove the stinger with a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to break off the stinger below the surface of the skin. This will help reduce the amount of venom that is injected.” Tweezers can also be used to remove arachnids, such as ticks, that burrow under the skin. Blackwell emphasized that an important
22 JulyAugust 2010 | BE Healthy
T
distinction must be made between common bites and stings versus a person suffering an allergic response to an insect bite. “Always side with caution — if ever you are in doubt if a situation is urgent, seek immediate medical attention,” she urged. Dr. Peter Isaac, a Beaumont pathologist, explained that in order to treat the bite or sting, you first have to understand the mechanism. “Most bugs in our area use the action of biting or stinging as a defense mechanism,” he said. “The venom that is injected is targeted at the pain receptors in our body as a warning to the perceived threat. Our body responds by secreting histamine, among other substances, to dilute the injected venom. The body’s response is what produces the red, raised area, or welt, characteristic of most bites and stings.” Not every bite or sting will respond the same. Blackwell cautioned that if the bite has not improved within two days, or if it becomes very red and hot to the touch, you need to seek immediate medical attention. There are certain circumstances where home remedies should not be attempted. “Some arachnids, particularly spiders and scorpions, can be very poisonous,” she said. “If you are certain you have been bitten by a poisonous spider, seek medical care immediately so that appropriate treatment, including the right antibiotics, can be started. It is always helpful if you are able to capture the insect or spider and bring it with you.” You also need to be extremely careful if you have suffered multiple insect bites, Isaac said. “Eight to nine invenomations
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BE Healthy | July/August 2010 23
EVACUATION ROUTES
Disaster supply CheCk list
Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days — non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices — foods for infants or the elderly — snack foods — non-electric can opener — cooking tools / fuel — paper plates / plastic utensils Blankets / Pillows, etc. Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs Special Items - for babies and the elderly Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes Flashlight / Batteries Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio Telephones - Fully charged cell phone and a Non-cordless telephone set Cash and Credit Cards - Banks may not be available for extended periods Keys Toys, Books and Games Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag — insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc. Tools - keep a set with you during the storm Vehicle fuel tanks filled Pet care items — proper identification / immunization records / medications — ample supply of food and water — a carrier or cage — muzzle and leash
Go online for more info regarding evacuation routes: http://www.state.tx.us/portal/tol/en/emergency/evacuating/
important phone numbers
DPS Hotline .......................... 1-800-525-5555 or *377 on cell Texas Department of Public Safety ................... 409-924-5400 Road Conditions............................................1-800-452-9292 Humane Society of Southeast Texas.................. 409-722-0605 American Red Cross ......................................1-866-526-8300 FEMA Disaster Assistance ..............................1-800-621-3362 Jefferson County ............................................. 409-835-8757 Chambers County............................................ 409-267-8343 Dispatch ........................................................ 409-267-8318 ...............................................................or 1-800-978-0337 Orange County ................................................ 409-882-7895 Hardin County ................................................. 409-246-5119 Beaumont .......................................... 409-980-7280 or 3-1-1 Entergy ........................................................1-800-368-3749 Centerpoint Energy........................................1-800-376-9663 Texas Gas Service .........................................1-800-700-2443
emergency management offices
BE
Reach for the sky! Functional exercise makes it possible
Summer hair rescue
Enjoy locally grown food
The Market Report
Choosing child care
fresh& sweet
Tips for that important decision
Your skin cells: plumped or fizzled?
UV rays hazardous to eyes bug bite
SHADES OF GRAY
relief
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2 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 | Volume 1, Issue 3
Contents
10
EATING RIGHT EAT YOUR WATER?
A top dermatologist’s advice By Cheryl Rose
6
BEAUTY BEWARE SUMMER HAIR!
Tips for fighting the elements By Cathleen Cole
12
SPOTLIGHT FARM-FRESH FARE
Regional flavor comes to market By Kirsten Matthew
15
INCREASE YOUR PEACE CHILD CARE CHOICES
What’s right for your family? By Cathleen Cole
22
SAFETY BUG OFF!
Take the bite out of summer By Todd Senters
20
GET MOVING BEND, LIFT, REACH
Real ways we use our bodies By Kirsten Matthew
19
SAFETY VISOR YOUR VISION
Take precautions for eye health By Todd Senters BE Healthy
4
EDITOR’S LETTER BE TASTE-FULL
Vegging out this summer By Cheryl Rose | July/August 2010 3
from the editor
BE
Editorial Executive Editor CHERYL ROSE Contributing Writers CATHLEEN COLE KIRSTEN MATTHEW TODD SENTERS Photography Contributing Photographers SILVIA C. MCCLAIN LEE E. STINSON JUDY STOKELY Art Executive Director, Digital Solutions and Productivity ANNA SINGLETARY Manager, Creative Media BLANCHE BOND Supervisor, Creative Media DON GRAY Lead Graphic Designer, Creative Media KRISTEN FLORES Contributing Designer KATIE GUIDROZ Advertising To advertise in BE Healthy 409.880.0700 Contact Us BE Healthy 380 Main Street Beaumont, TX 77701 409.880.0700
to disPlAy thE mAgAzinE AT YOUR BUSINESS LOCATION, pLEASE CALL 409.838.2829 sUbmissions TO SUBMIT AN EVENT, ORGANIZATION |OR pERSON FOR CONSIDERATION IN AN UpCOMING ISSUE, SUBMIT BY USpS AT ADDRESS ABOVE.
BE taste-full
o me, there is nothing that symbolizes summer more than a ripe, red, homegrown tomato. Slice it up with a bit of salt, or maybe some balsamic or a sprinkle of basil leaves…life is good. Before moving to Texas, I grew tomatoes in the backyard and had even begun experimenting with some heirloom varieties. I made the attempt when we first arrived in Beaumont, but got quickly discouraged by drought and critters. Now I’d much rather just buy the product of someone else’s hot and patient work. With the opening of the Beaumont Farmer’s Market, there is another great source to get delicious produce and products grown right in our area. My family was part of the big crowd on opening day and many Saturday mornings since. There is always such a good vibe at a food market. It attracts people who are truly appreciative of the benefits of fresh food and the labor required to provide it. As Americans, we are reminded repeatedly that we should incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into our diets. In summertime, it’s hard to find an excuse not to indulge in the abundance of beans, peas, peppers, cucumbers, lettuces, melons and more. Take a trip to one of the local markets and talk to the vendors about how to cook a vegetable you’ve never tried. Dr. Howard Murad, the internationally-known dermatologist and researcher, provides yet another way to think about the importance of fruits and vegetables to our bodies — water. Could eating a cucumber or a banana do more for your body’s hydration than drinking a glass of pure water? Find out more in the article on p. 10. Before we know it, the long summer days will speed up with the back-to-school rush. If you have school-age children, be sure to check the current vaccination requirements. Start a bedtime and eating routine to ease your kids back into school hours a week or two in advance. Consider what you’re going to pack in that new lunch kit — starting with some fruits and veggies!
T
Cheryl Rose, Executive Editor
A division of hearst newspapers Publisher BILL OFFILL
on our cover
Be part of keeping Southeast Texas green! Recycle this magazine.
Photography: Silvia C. McClain Adorable Olivia Daleo, the daughter of Stephanie and Bernie Daleo of Beaumont, was a terrific model for us. She had a perfect smile in every shot – even when we got interrupted by a summer rain shower. Olivia is 6 years old, soon to turn 7 in August. Thus far
she’s lost three teeth — maybe four by the time you read this! She tells us she does like watermelon, but given the choice, she’d prefer candy. When the shoot was over, we asked what she thought of it all. She said she loved it — maybe even more than candy! Our thanks to Olivia, her mom and her big sister, Giuliana, for helping out.
4 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
Do You Have Any of These Symptoms?
• Swollen legs or ankles? • Muscle cramps, tender, aching legs? • Tiredness, itching, burning, tingling, throbbing, or heaviness in your legs? • Discoloration or peeling of the skin, especially around your ankles? • Non-Healing sores on your lower legs? • Bulging, rope-like veins or spider veins? These may be symptoms of venous reflux disease or venous insufficiency. This common medical disease affects over 25 million people in the United States and often goes undiagnosed and untreated. Now there is an effective, minimally invasive procedure that is performed at Vein Centers of Texas, by Beaumont’s leading vein surgeon; Peter B. Morgan, M.D. Our highly specialized and experienced staff makes comprehensive venous care our priority. We develop relationships with our patients and take time to educate them and then continue to follow them until we have successfully treated all of their problematic veins.
If you recognize any of these symptoms, call today for an appointment and consultation.
#7 Bayoubrandt Drive, Beaumont, Texas 77706 • Phone – 409.832.8323 • www.veincentersoftexas.com
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www.drwilgers.com
3282 College St., Beaumont (409) 832-8600
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 5
beauty
De-stress your
Tresses
By Cathleen Cole
ou may have seen them on your summer vacation to the coast — those surfer girls and beach boys with bushy, sun-bleached hairdos. Sun and sea salt can wreak havoc on your hair. And for those of you who like to relax at the pool, especially you blondies, chlorine can turn your hair an unlovely shade of algae green. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With the right cut and proper care, your hair can be cool and stylish all summer long.
6 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
Y
Healthy Hair Tips “Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to hair care,” said Lydia Light, an instructor in Lumberton High School’s cosmetology department. To keep the pool’s chlorine from soaking into your hair, Light recommends wetting it thoroughly with tap water so it will already be saturated and won’t soak up the heavily chlorinated water. Or you can use a leave-in conditioner with sunscreen on your hair before you go swimming. And don’t forget your hat. “That’s the best protection from the sun,” Light said. To wash out chlorine build-
up, Light recommends shampooing and then adding about a tablespoon of baking soda to your soapy hair. Lather that in and rinse it out thoroughly. “This is good for any type of buildup on the hair — chlorine, hair spray, even excessive conditioner,” she explained. If you want to give your locks a lift, Light advised, eat a healthy diet and avoid cigarette smoke, which can leave yellowing deposits on hair. And put away the blow dryer and flat iron for a while. Excessive heat can be very damaging. “Give your hair a rest from these heat sources,” she recommended. “That does help.”
“In order to have healthy hair, we need to have a healthy diet to support the growth and development of hair.”
Mary Ellen Vivrett, registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager, Baptist Beaumont Hospital
Feed Your Hair “Nutrients are received and absorbed at the hair bulb, which is part of the hair root under the skin,” said Mary Ellen Vivrett, a registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager at Baptist Beaumont Hospital. “The hair bulb takes the nutrients and generates new hair. In order to have healthy hair, we need to have a healthy diet to support the growth and development of hair.”
According to Vivrett, hair needs sufficient protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin, iron, copper and zinc. Without it, hair might become dull and dry and progressive hair loss can occur. (See list below for diet recommendations.) Proper hydration is also important for hair growth, so Vivrett recommends drinking plenty of water and limiting caffeinated beverages, which can be dehydrating, to 24 ounces per day.
Diet for Pretty Hair
Proteins: Lean meats including beef, chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, fish and shellfish. Plant proteins include vegetables, dried beans and peas, soybeans and tofu. Vitamin A: Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, mangos, cantaloupe, dried apricots, milk, cheese, egg yolks and liver.
78 Years of Personal, Professional Service.
Vitamin C: Guava, papaya, red bell peppers, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, green bell peppers, grapefruit, tomatoes, mangos, tangerines, cabbage and spinach. Biotin: Egg yolks, carrots, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, chard, onions, cabbage, cauliflower, cow’s milk, goat’s milk, raspberries, strawberries, oats, walnuts and halibut. Iron: Clams, oysters, chicken liver, beans, tofu, beets, greens, chard, spinach, potatoes with skins and tomatoes. You can get iron-fortified cereals, breads and crackers, too. Copper and zinc: Oysters, organ meats, shellfish, poultry, legumes and whole grains. >>
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| July/August 2010 7
Easy, Breezy Looks for Summer
Stylist Alicia Taylor, owner of Hot Headz Hair Studio in Beaumont, has some suggestions for easy, breezy looks for many types of hair.
straight curly frizzy thick thin long
“Lots of women are going with braids in the summer,” Taylor said. But they’re not just doing a single braid encompassing all the hair, she added. Try taking a lock or two from the sides and braiding just them. It gives some texture to the rest of the hair that is left loose. “With long curly hair, you want some layers,” Taylor advised. A bobbed, blunt cut works well for short curly hair, she said. Scrunch up the curls for a soft touch. “Silkening gloss” products are a must-have for hair that’s prone to frazzle. “It will control the frizz and add shine,” Taylor said. “It’s perfect for going to the beach and for high-humidity days.” Texturing shears help thin unmanageably thick hair. Think of it like pruning the shrubs. “Texturing gets the bulk out,” Taylor explained. “If you want thicker-looking hair, cut it short,” Taylor advised. Also, invest in thickening gels and shampoos to boost your hair’s volume. Pulling your hair back off your face with a clip for some height at the top and putting the length in a ponytail is a cute, classic look. Another way to go is with a scrunchy, layered style. “That’s way easy,” Taylor said.
easy styles For boys, Taylor suggests a fade cut with gel on top to spike it up. “That’s a classic cut girls, forget the hair is parted for men, that’s easy.” ForSoutheast Texas bangs. Their cut that’s easyon the side and flows to the shoulder. Most men want a and cool (as in, women, “They want it off the ear and off the collar!” Taylor laughed. An easy summernot hot). style for boys and women is a smooth, shoulder-length layered cut that can be pulled back into a ponytail girls on those hot summer days. •
MAKE YOUR DREAM BODY A REALITY
Lipo-Ex® helps
| BE Healthy 8 July/August 2010
Melt away stubborn fat and reduces cellulite. It also erases stretch marks, diminishes wrinkles and tightens skin. It’s time to live in your skin instead of covering it up!
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Lipo-Ex® of Beaumont • 4224 College St. Beaumont • 409-347-7886
Go Bananas!
healthy choices
An easy way to grill up something surprisingly good
Adding bananas to your summer grilling routine is a fun way to eat fruit. You can grill them in their peels while the barbecue coals are still hot or add peeled slices to a tasty kabob. From kid-friendly desserts to grown-up dishes with a tropical twist, go bananas on the grill. For more banana recipes and serving suggestions, go to www.dole.com/bananas. — Family Features
Island Kabobs with Tropical Fruit Salsa Prep: 10 minutes Grill time: 10 minutes Makes: 4 servings 2 ripe, firm bananas, peeled, each cut into 6 pieces, plus 1 ripe banana, peeled and diced 12 chunks of pineapple 16 extra large or jumbo shrimp, shelled and deveined 1 green or red bell pepper, cut into 8 pieces 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ teaspoon ground allspice 1 mango, peeled and diced 1 tablespoon chopped mint 1 green onion, minced 2 to 3 teaspoons minced jalapeño pepper
Thread banana pieces, pineapple, shrimp and bell pepper pieces equally onto skewers. Whisk together lime juice, oil and allspice in small bowl. Brush 2 tablespoons over kabobs. Combine remaining marinade with diced banana, mango, mint, green onion and jalapeño pepper; place in a serving dish. Grill kabobs over medium high heat 8 to 10 minutes, turning once or until the shrimp are opaque. Arrange the kabobs on top of the salsa.
How to Store Bananas Remove bananas from plastic produce bag and store at room temperature. The warmer it is, the faster the bananas will ripen. • To slow ripening, refrigerate (peel will turn black but the fruit inside will be fresh and ripe). Bananas can be frozen once the banana is peeled and stored in a freezer bag until ready to use (use a bit of fresh lemon juice to reduce browning). • If bananas are too green, place them in a brown paper bag, in a warm dry area (but not in direct sunlight) for a day or two to encourage ripening. If there is still not enough yellow appearing on the peel, place a ripe apple in the bag with the bananas. Source: Dole
BE Healthy | July/August 2010 9
eating right
“Water is the best life-preserver”
Essential Ingredient
The
L
By Cheryl Rose
et’s say you have four new tires on your car. Over time, the air gradually leaks out of the tires and your ride becomes bumpy and soon the whole car begins to experience trouble. Perhaps you pull over and pump the tires up with air, but because there are tiny holes, the air just leaks out again. In order to function properly, your tires need a re-tread. Then you need to avoid dirt roads and nails.
Using analogies, Dr. Howard Murad, an internationally-known physician, researcher, professor, pharmacist and author, simplifies complex biologic chemistry. In this story, the tires represent the cells of your body, which are plump and full of water in your youth, but which gradually become dehydrated as you age. “When we begin, we are 75 to 80 percent water,” Murad said. “As we age, the level drops to almost zero.”
10 March/April 2010
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With so much else to worry about, do we need to be concerned about the level of water in our cells? Picture the grape versus the raisin. Suddenly, nourishing our cells takes on a new importance. Every part of the body is made up of cells. “If we look at our society, we may be living longer, but we have more chronic disease,” Murad said. “I asked myself, how could I make every person healthier? The answer is by encouraging more water into the cells, so they will function as if they are more youthful and healthy.” Gulping down the recommended eight glasses a day of tap or bottled water won’t refill your cells. “Just drinking water doesn’t repair the cell membrane or reduce free radicals,” Murad explained. “If I could encourage you to do one thing different to change your health, it would be to eat your water rather than drink it.”
Remembering the tire analogy, the first step is to repair the leaks. This is where understanding the chemistry of what we eat becomes important. “Remember, before there was medicine, there was food,” Murad said. Certain foods provide better benefits for cellular health. Murad explained that as people age and experience diseases, the outer shell of the cell, the membrane, gets drier and thinner. The membrane is made up of amino acids and lipids. The goal then is to strengthen and repair those internal cell membranes through diet. Murad listed eggs, seeds and beans as embryonic foods rich in protein and amino acids. Whole grains provide the building blocks for collagen. Externally, the skin is the largest organ of the body. “The skin is important because it’s our shield from the environment,” Murad said. “It works to create a barrier to ultraviolet light, pollution, wind, dust, microbes. Your skin is like a shingle roof on a house: A brand new roof protects you, but then it gets holes in it and it can’t protect you as well.” Murad said there are methods to “Scotchguard the shingles” by topically introducing lipids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Lastly, watch out for nails. Murad said stress reduction is another key component for an inclusive health approach. Murad said that it is important to know that it is never too late or too early to improve cellular health. “Once a month you get new skin, every six weeks you get a new liver,” he said. “About every 10 weeks you’re a different person.” • “If I could encourage you to do one thing different to change your health, it would be to eat your water rather than drink it.”
411 on your
The liquid water we drink doesn’t stay in the body long, whereas the water we eat does. “Raw fruits and vegetables have structured water that penetrates the cell membranes better,” Murad explained. There are additional benefits to eating water. For example, when you eat a cucumber or watermelon, both comprised predominantly of water, you’re also getting nutrients, anti-inflammatories and antioxidants, he noted. Murad believes there are steps that people can take to improve their cellular water. He espouses a three-pronged approach of skin, mouth and brain, or topical, internal and emotional self-care.
Dr. Murad has written a new book that describes his findings and recommendations in detail. “The Water Secret” will be available August 30.
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What is the state of your cellular water? Better or worse than others your age? The Christus Healthy Living Spa in Beaumont offers an inclusive health evaluation developed by Dr. Murad that measures wrinkles, spots, the integrity of the skin, metabolic rate, blood pressure, body fat, muscle mass and gives you the data on how much water you have in your cells. Ruthie Robinson, a division director of Women’s and Children’s Services at Christus St Elizabeth, had the evaluation when she turned 50 last year. “As a nurse, I know what you’re supposed to do,” she acknowledged. “What I really wanted to know was where was I – my percentages, my benchmarks — how good have I been doing and what might I need to do differently.” Robinson said her initial assessment was strong for her age group. She went back eight weeks later after following the suggested guidelines for supplements, skin care regime, diet and exercise and the results were even stronger. She continues to go back for periodic assessments.
| July/August 2010 11
spotlight
photography by silvia C. MCClain
Fresh Flavors from the Farm
By Kirsten Matthew
T
he soft, early-morning summer glow covers the corner of Beaumont’s College and Main streets as farmers in straw hats and bib overalls begin arriving in pickups with their farm-fresh fare. Nutritious, locally grown foods — fresh vegetables, berries, jams, herbs, beef and cheeses — turn makeshift stands and tailgates into a tantalizing show of summer’s harvest for the new Beaumont Farmer’s Market.
culture and one of the oldest means of direct marketing by farmers, farmers markets have endured in their grassroots effort to connect communities with the benefits of eating local produce, including strengthening the local economy by redirecting consumers’ food dollars to local growers. Farmers at the Beaumont market have a fine opportunity to educate the community about local food crops as well as sustainable farming practices on the rich lands of Southeast Texas. “One of the best parts of the whole venture is meeting the farmers,” Parmer said. “They are multi-talented, hard-working, humble, resourceful, warm, welcoming people.” There is both a health and a flavor benefit to fresh produce, Stedman advocates. “It’s more nutritious for you when it’s picked the
In this bountiful region, a lifestyle of healthy eating is as viable as its year-round growing season. The colorful summer squash, zucchini, tomatoes and beans of early to midsummer come chock full of flavor, the staples of summer’s coolest recipes. As the seasons change, so will the crops area farmers sell, giving way to the signature tastes of autumn. “We wanted to connect the community with the freshest locally-grown produce we could find in a 150-mile radius,” said Becki Stedman, co-founder of the nonprofit market. Stedman connected with friend Sarah Parmer one day in the garden center at Lowe’s and conceived the notion. “We discovered what a great desire there is to have this market back in the city.” A centuries-old tradition steeped in world
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Saturday Outing
Wholesome, nutritious, farm-raised goodness is available Saturdays through October from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., rain or shine. For more information, call 409.656.4113 or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/Beaumont-FarmersMarket.
12 July/August 2010
Top left: Beaumont Farmer’s Market co-founders Becki Stedman and Sarah Parmer. Top right: Sutton’s Sweets of Buna. Middle: Spindletop Steakhouse chef Chuck Harris responds to the challenge of a timed event, inventing a recipe from products found at the market. Bottom left: Vendors Bobby and Judy Baggett of Buna. >>
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night or day before and it tastes better,” she said. On market morning, Sutton’s Sweets hangs up its shingle for the sale of jellies and jams of fresh blueberry, mayhaw, fig and pear. Fragrant basil, sage, oregano, mint and an array of other delightful seasonings sell quickly at the Herb Society of America’s tent. “This climate is ideal for the growing of any number of these zero-calorie, organic flavor enhancers,” Emily Baize, a market vendor, noted. Opening day in late May saw a sellout of 10 dozen farmfresh eggs in 20 minutes for Julia and Bobby of Baggett’s Farm in Buna. “He’s living his dream as a farmer,” Julia Baggett said. Bobby Baggett’s 75 chickens produce yard eggs of fabulous blues and greens, rare finds for any inquisitive heretofore brown-and-white-only shoppers. Over at Atkinson’s Farm, volunteer Linda Morvant advocates her healthy lifestyle choice for natural foods. “I like to know where my food comes from,” she said. “I prefer organic, non-genetically modified foods with no hormones or antibiotics.” At Sztraky Farms of Silsbee’s booth, 75 pounds of true blackberries - known for their flavor, size, overall quality and sturdiness – were picked from the vine just hours before. The one- and two-pound containers, popping with goodness, were quickly carried off to homes throughout Southeast Texas. “Get here early!” Donna Spires of Nederland advised, as she browsed the market, toting her two young grandchildren around in search of her favorite fare. “We like to buy local. You can’t beat a fresh vegetable.” •
Fresh Alternatives: From Pasture to Plate
For Gentz Cattle Company farmer James Gentz of Winnie, raising Longhorn beef cattle has heart-healthy benefits for consumers. Tender and great tasting, Gentz said it is a leaner cut of meat that has less calories, fat and cholesterol than chicken. “This is definitely good news for a healthy lifestyle,” he said. Packages of T-bones, rib eyes, sirloin, roasts and more – with no added hormones, antibiotics or additives – sell like hotcakes. At Miabella Farm of New Caney, goat farmer Michelle Gasaway peddles her Chevre soft goat cheese. The creamy and tangy palatal experience comes plain or blended with a variety of harmonious herbs. Crumbled or marinated feta cheese, lotions and goat milk soap are also available. Gasaway’s goats also produce milk, which she said is higher in calcium and lower in cholesterol than regular milk, but you’ll have to visit her and her 26 goats down on the farm to get that.
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Delightful
Finding the right child-care provider will make your little one, and you, happy
Day Care
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By Cathleen Cole
ou want the best child care for your baby, and rightly so. Recent results of a study funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development show that low-quality child care from infancy to 4½ years can have a lasting impact, causing behavior and academic problems through age 15. The research implies the effect of low-quality care can last a lifetime. >>
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Do Your Homework How do you find highquality child care? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services recommends doing your research, preferably several months in advance. What are you and your child’s needs? Do you have a full-time job and require fulltime day care? Or do you just want part-time care that can be accomplished with a preschool or mother’s-day-out program? Maybe your schedule is so flexible that a reliable sitter a few times a week will do. Perhaps a live-in nanny is the best option to help you manage your demanding career and your children’s needs. Once you’ve determined the kind of care your situation warrants, you can narrow your search. When you have a list of centers or individuals you are considering, start your research. If you are looking at daycare facilities, call and ask for informational materials they can mail you or, if available, check out their websites. If the providers seem to meet your needs, make appointments to visit them. Take a notepad and ask questions about basic safety and sanitary procedures, caregiver training and criminal background checks, discipline, naps, snacks, play time and learning time. Tour the facility, meet the caregivers and watch how they interact with the children. Note whether the facility is clean and organized or dirty and chaotic. It matters. Once you’ve narrowed your list even further, take your child with you for another visit and see how the caregivers interact with him or her. If you are looking for an individual to care for your child at home, make sure the prospective sitter offers recent references. Check them all out. It’s also wise to invest in a criminal background check. Based in Beaumont, The Professional Nanny Source (pronanny.com) lets you choose
16 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
“Good child-care arrangements can improve the daily lives of both children and their parents.”
Oney Fitzpatrick, associate professor of psychology, Lamar University
from pre-screened applicants for full-time or part-time caregivers. Their motto: “Arriving by umbrella, not broomstick.” Child Development and Day Care “Good child-care arrangements can improve the daily lives of both children and their parents,” said Oney Fitzpatrick, an associate professor of psychology at Lamar University who specializes in developmental psychology. “Generally speaking, children in high-quality day care have higher levels of success when they enter school than those in lower-quality centers.” According to Fitzpatrick, research shows that being cared for by providers with more education and training helps children be more cooperative, stick with tasks and become ready for school. Trained providers understand how children grow and learn and know how to offer the materials and activities that are most appropriate. Research also indicates, he said, that smaller group sizes work best. Generally, the childcare quality is higher as the group size gets Oney Fitzpatrick smaller. This is particularly important for infants and younger children. “High-quality centers have ratios as low as one adult to three children for infants and toddlers,” Fitzpatrick said. Many researchers suggest that infants need to remain with a parent, Fitzpatrick noted. But there are a few advantages to infant day care if this is not an option. In a quality child-care situation, children will learn there are many people who can take care of them. They are stimulated by seeing other babies and get used to sleeping in a not-so-quiet environment. On the down side, studies show children in day care get sick more often because of exposure to more germs. Also, many day-care centers have a high staff turnover rate, which interferes with the consistency of care. Then there’s the option of at-home care. “Private nannies can be a complicated choice because a nanny or babysitter requires no background check unless found through an agency,” Fitzpatrick said. “However, nannies are good choices if they are found through an agency, are educated in child development, have training in CPR and can pass a thorough background check.” For the toddler, there’s preschool where ideas such as turntaking and non-violence are reinforced in a setting with other children. “Quality child care offers activities that are appropriate for each child’s age, interests and abilities,” Fitzpatrick said. In a quality program, the room is divided into sections to invite small-group activities for both quiet and active play. According to Fitzpatrick, common problems in children who have not attended preschool are an inability to pay attention to the teacher, talking at inappropriate times, inattention to the task at hand, expecting other children to defer to their wants and opinions while not being willing to reciprocate and not really understanding why they should have to take turns. “The years of early childhood are a time of tremendous growth in the areas of physical, emotional, intellectual and social development,” Fitzpatrick said. “Children need the freedom to explore and learn about the world while still having a solid foundation that is ‘home.’ The effectiveness of the socialization process will ultimately determine how well a child will fit into an everchanging society. The quality of early child care can either assist or hinder this process.” •
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Child Care Licensing oversees the licensing and inspection of child-care venues. Check out its website for tips on researching your options. It includes sample questions to ask and a checklist to take with you on your visits to different facilities. There’s also a link to search for information on specific child-care providers. www.dfps. state.tx.us/Child_Care/Other_Child_Care_Information/ Exploring_Options.asp
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BE Healthy | July/August 2010 17
Ban the Rays
Beware of sun exposure for eyes
By Todd Senters
safety
“Everywhere I go, I see moms covering their kids with sunscreen, but what about the eyes?” questions Dr. Peter Cass, an optometrist with Beaumont Family Eye Care. As you enjoy your outdoor activities, don’t forget to take a few precautionary steps to make this summer a healthy one for your eyes. Whether you are planning a trip to the beach or an amusement park, playing sports, or just simply laying by the pool, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light can cause harmful, lasting effects.
18 July/August 2010 | BE Healthy
“When going outdoors, you need to remember to protect your eyes by wearing a hat with a brim and a good pair of sunglasses, or prescription glasses that offer 100 percent UV protection.”
Dr. Peter Cass, optometrist Beaumont Family Eye Care
The Culprit Ultraviolet light, UV, is a form of energy released by the sun that is not visible to the human eye. “UV light is divided into three categories, UV-A, UV-B and UV-C,” Cass said. “Most UV light does not reach the Earth; it is filtered by our atmosphere. However, some of this light passes through; UV-A and UV-B, in particular, can harm the eyes with prolonged exposure.” UV-B is the form of light energy that can cause sunburn if the skin is left unprotected. Similarly, Cass said that UV-B (as well as UV-A) is often attributed with causing several serious eye conditions, including macular degeneration and cataract formation. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, AAO, macular degeneration is progressive damage (thinning) to the center of the retina, the back part of the eye, which can eventually lead to vision loss. AAO describes cataract formation as clouding or discoloration of the lens of the eye. A Clouded Lens “Most people will develop cataracts as they age,” said Dr. Richard “Tony” Levacy, an ophthalmologist with the Eye Centers of Southeast Texas. “This is one of the most common eye disorders we encounter.” Fortunately, Levacy explained, there have been many advancements in replacement lens technology. “If someone comes to me with a reduced quality of life due to cataracts, I will usually recommend surgery,” he said. Cataract surgery involves
A Dim View “Macular degeneration is classified as being either dry-type or wet-type,” Levacy explained. “Dry-type is the milder form. A combination of vitamins, including A, E, C, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin has been shown to slow progression at this stage of the disease.” Until recently, there was little hope to reverse the effects of macular degeneration. “The more advanced form, wet-type macular degeneration, is now being treated with a medication named Lucentis, or a similar medication, Avastin, which was initially developed to fight cancer,” Levacy said. Both medications have proven to be effective in treating macular degeneration in those people who are most at risk of losing their eyesight, he said. Protect Your Peepers “The best thing about the potential for eye damage related to UV light exposure is that it is preventable,” Cass said. “When going outdoors,
Dr. Cass examines Kasidy Adkins’ eyes. Children need to wear sun protection for their eyes just as adults do.
Dr. Peter Cass of Beaumont Family Eye Care provided these tips for eye health and safety: Protect Eyes from UV light: • • • • • • • • • Wear a wide-brimmed hat Hats can absorb up to 50 percent of UV light Prescription lenses should be coated with UV protection Prescription lenses should be photochromic, or transition lenses, to adjust to light exposure Sunglasses should be rated to absorb 100 percent UV light Sunglasses or prescription glasses should be polarized to reduce glare with limited color distortion Avoid sunglasses that do not state exact percentage of UV rays absorbed Polycarbonate lenses provide the most UV protection Swimming masks and goggles should be coated with UV protection
Ultraviolet Light Facts: • UV-A and UV-B can be harmful to the eyes • UV-C is almost completely absorbed by the atmosphere • UV-B is linked to cataract formation and macular degeneration • Stronger between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Stronger at higher altitudes • Stronger closer to the equator • Stronger in open spaces
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photography by LEE E. STINSON
dissolving the clouded lens and inserting a replacement artificial lens. According to Levacy, all replacement lenses used in cataract surgery contain a UV protective coating. “Lenses are more sophisticated than they used to be,” he said. “We can implant a lens to correct astigmatism, or even implant a new-generation multi-focal lens to improve near and distance vision. Some people are opting for lens replacement surgery, even in the absence of cataracts.”
you need to remember to protect your eyes by wearing a hat with a brim and a good pair of sunglasses, or prescription glasses that offer 100 percent UV protection.” When buying sunglasses, the amount of UV protection should be listed by the manufacturer, he stated. “Don’t be as concerned with how dark the lenses are; the UV coating is clear, so lighter tinted lenses can still provide complete protection,” Cass assured.
Also, UV light can reflect off of water and shiny surfaces. It is a good idea to wear protective sunglasses or a UV-coated mask or goggles when you will be in or near water. Damage to the eyes caused by exposure to ultraviolet light is cumulative and increases over time. As you and your family get out in the sun this summer, don’t overlook eye protection for children. Keep their future bright by wearing shades! •
get moving
Core Value
Functional exercise trains our bodies to handle real-life situations
By Kirsten Matthew
20 July/August 2010
| BE Healthy
photography by JUDY STOKELY
ou might appear toned, tight and ready for the beach, but are you really prepared to lift your toddler out of the car seat or reach up on your tippy toes for something on the top shelf of the kitchen cabinet? Functional fitness and functional exercise are the latest answer for honing in on your body’s inner core. Originating in rehabilitation, functional exercises involve mostly weight-bearing activities targeting the muscle groups in the abdomen and the back.
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“Anyone of any age can do functional exercises,” assured Mary B. Scott, a personal trainer at Christus Health & Wellness Center. “As we age, we’re healthier if we have maintained functional exercise. You want to focus on engaging the core so that it’s useful for training the body to handle real-life situations.” The key is integration, teaching all muscles to work together, rather than isolating them to work separately. You can literally choose from thousands of strength training, functional training and flexibility exercises. The basic types of these exercises — including squatting, bending, lunging, pushing, pulling, twisting and gait — work like a charm to increase strength and decrease joint pain. There are a variety of tools to help you get a little more functional, including dumbbells, exercise balls and pulley systems although Scott emphasized that you can do functional exercises anywhere, anytime. “You can use anything at home ... a can of soup, a can of vegetables … anything with the equivalent weight to a hand weight,” she said. Olympic athletes even use functional exercise training, which can readily be tailored to specific sports — from basketball or soccer to running or football. “They’re also a great way for pregnant women to maintain exercise,” Scott noted. “They can shorten delivery time, decrease recovery time and support optimal weight.” Scott reinforced that all aspects of fitness, such as weight bearing, flexibility and cardiovascular, are still necessary for overall health. The benefits of functional exercise training — better muscular balance and joint flexibility, increased strength and less risk of injury — are long-lasting. “People need to know this type of exercise is going to take them into healthier, happier, older years.” •
“You want to focus on engaging the core so that it’s useful for training the body to handle real-life situations.” — Mary B. Scott, personal trainer
Home Equipment
Mary B. Scott and her daughter, Tyler, demonstrate some functional poses. Using a hula hoop, perform an overhead press with a side stretch.
Agility
Practice a side-shuffle step to increase balance while passing a ball for agility.
Balance
Stepping heel-totoe, raise the ball overhead, and then alternate ball position to down, outstretched and back to overhead. For an added challenge, walk backward toeto-heel using the same ball positions.
Wrist Curls
(opposite page)
Using a household broom, curl the wrists up and down, doing three sets of 10 reps.
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focus on health
Ow!
Stop insect bites from bugging you
By Todd Senters (bites) per pound can prove fatal,” he said. Blackwell pointed out that this is why children are especially susceptible; smaller bodies tolerate fewer bites before showing signs of a serious reaction. Some simple solutions to avoid being bitten include insect repellent on your skin, as well as your surroundings, avoid wearing fragrances for outdoor activities and avoid areas with standing water. Check the area for active nests and spray with an insecticide. If you encounter a wasp, bee, hornet or similar insect, simply walk away; threatening motions will significantly increase the likelihood of being stung. An added measure of caution will help ensure you are able to enjoy your outdoor activities this summer. •
Rebecca Blackwell provided this two-step combo for treating bites or stings at home. Step 1: Salt Paste Mix 2 tsp. of table salt with 2 oz. of water. Spread on bite and allow to dry. Sodium will help pull out remaining venom. Paste will flake away when completely dry. Step 2: Ointment Mixture After applying the salt paste, treat with a mixture of the following: Triple antibiotic ointment Benadryl ointment Hydrocortisone ointment Eucerin cream Apply three times a day for symptom relief. Seek medical attention if not improved within two days.
here is a buzz in the air; unfortunately, it isn’t the release of the latest summer blockbuster. It is the return of the unwelcome guests that can wreck havoc on your outdoor plans. Southeast Texas is inundated with various forms of flying and crawling insects and arachnids. These six- and eight-legged critters can show up at the most inopportune time. You can’t avoid them, so what do you do if you’re bitten or stung? According to Rebecca Blackwell, a physician assistant at Baptist Convenient Care Clinic, many common bites and stings can be managed at home.“It is summer and bug bites are going to happen,” she said. “I see several patients a day in the clinic for various insect and spider bites. There are some things you can do at home to minimize itching and help the bite heal faster.” Regardless of what type of insect (or arachnid) may have bitten you, the first thing to do is to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, Blackwell advised. “This will help remove dirt and bacteria and minimize the likelihood of infection,” she said. “If you were stung by an insect that leaves an imbedded stinger, you should gently remove the stinger with a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to break off the stinger below the surface of the skin. This will help reduce the amount of venom that is injected.” Tweezers can also be used to remove arachnids, such as ticks, that burrow under the skin. Blackwell emphasized that an important
22 JulyAugust 2010 | BE Healthy
T
distinction must be made between common bites and stings versus a person suffering an allergic response to an insect bite. “Always side with caution — if ever you are in doubt if a situation is urgent, seek immediate medical attention,” she urged. Dr. Peter Isaac, a Beaumont pathologist, explained that in order to treat the bite or sting, you first have to understand the mechanism. “Most bugs in our area use the action of biting or stinging as a defense mechanism,” he said. “The venom that is injected is targeted at the pain receptors in our body as a warning to the perceived threat. Our body responds by secreting histamine, among other substances, to dilute the injected venom. The body’s response is what produces the red, raised area, or welt, characteristic of most bites and stings.” Not every bite or sting will respond the same. Blackwell cautioned that if the bite has not improved within two days, or if it becomes very red and hot to the touch, you need to seek immediate medical attention. There are certain circumstances where home remedies should not be attempted. “Some arachnids, particularly spiders and scorpions, can be very poisonous,” she said. “If you are certain you have been bitten by a poisonous spider, seek medical care immediately so that appropriate treatment, including the right antibiotics, can be started. It is always helpful if you are able to capture the insect or spider and bring it with you.” You also need to be extremely careful if you have suffered multiple insect bites, Isaac said. “Eight to nine invenomations
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EVACUATION ROUTES
Disaster supply CheCk list
Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days — non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices — foods for infants or the elderly — snack foods — non-electric can opener — cooking tools / fuel — paper plates / plastic utensils Blankets / Pillows, etc. Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs Special Items - for babies and the elderly Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes Flashlight / Batteries Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio Telephones - Fully charged cell phone and a Non-cordless telephone set Cash and Credit Cards - Banks may not be available for extended periods Keys Toys, Books and Games Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag — insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc. Tools - keep a set with you during the storm Vehicle fuel tanks filled Pet care items — proper identification / immunization records / medications — ample supply of food and water — a carrier or cage — muzzle and leash
Go online for more info regarding evacuation routes: http://www.state.tx.us/portal/tol/en/emergency/evacuating/
important phone numbers
DPS Hotline .......................... 1-800-525-5555 or *377 on cell Texas Department of Public Safety ................... 409-924-5400 Road Conditions............................................1-800-452-9292 Humane Society of Southeast Texas.................. 409-722-0605 American Red Cross ......................................1-866-526-8300 FEMA Disaster Assistance ..............................1-800-621-3362 Jefferson County ............................................. 409-835-8757 Chambers County............................................ 409-267-8343 Dispatch ........................................................ 409-267-8318 ...............................................................or 1-800-978-0337 Orange County ................................................ 409-882-7895 Hardin County ................................................. 409-246-5119 Beaumont .......................................... 409-980-7280 or 3-1-1 Entergy ........................................................1-800-368-3749 Centerpoint Energy........................................1-800-376-9663 Texas Gas Service .........................................1-800-700-2443
emergency management offices
