Saturday, October 25, 2008

30 Day Total Gym Trial


Friday, October 24, 2008

Why You Should Get a Flu Shot

An Erie County woman is Pennsylvania's first state laboratory-confirmed case of influenza this season, the state Health Department said today.

"The announcement of our first confirmed flu case should be a reminder to all Pennsylvanians to take the necessary steps to remain healthy throughout flu season," said acting Health Secretary Everette James.



"Flu season has arrived and now is the time to protect your health and get vaccinated."

See Influenza Symptoms

The influenza vaccine is recommended for the following high-risk individuals:

-- All children 6 months through 18 years of age;

-- People 50 years of age and older regardless of their medical history;

-- People with underlying health conditions such as heart, respiratory, kidney, liver metabolic, and immune system problems;

-- People with weakened immune systems such as HIV/AIDS, long-term treatment of steroids, and cancer treatment with X-rays or drugs;

-- People who have cognitive dysfunction, and muscle or nerve disorders (such as spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy or seizure disorders) that can lead to breathing or swallowing problems;

-- People who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy who, therefore, might be at risk for Reyes syndrome after influenza infection;

-- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities;

-- Women who will be pregnant anytime during the influenza season;

-- Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children 0-59 months of age;

-- Physicians, nurses, family members, or anyone else in close contact with any of these groups at risk for influenza;

-- Anyone wishing to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill from influenza.

Each year, an estimated 36,000 individuals die from influenza-related illnesses and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized nationwide. Rates of serious illness and death are highest among people over the age of 65 and individuals of any age who have chronic medical conditions that place them at increased risk for complications from influenza.

Recommended ways to prevent the spread of the flu include frequent handwashing, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and, when possible, avoiding contact with others when you are sick.




It is also important to consult with your medical provider as soon as the first symptoms of influenza appear since certain antiviral prescription drugs may lessen the duration and severity of the illness if taken early.



Flu cases traditionally peak between January and March, so individuals should consider getting vaccinated before peak flu season begins. It takes one to two weeks to build up immunity after receiving the flu vaccine.

For more information on influenza, contact the Department of Health at

1-877-PA-HEALTH or visit http://www.health.state.pa.us/flu.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Women Outperforming Men at Eating a Healthful Diet

New International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation research suggests women are more likely than men to be taking advantage of and eating foods to maintain overall health and wellness as well as for more specific benefits like improved feelings of fullness and digestive health. The new insight comes from further study of this year's 3rd annual IFIC Foundation Food & Health Survey which examines what consumers are thinking and doing about their food, nutrition and health.

Diet Defense is the ultimate hunger blocker!





According to the data both genders overwhelmingly believe(up to approximately 80%) that specific foods and beverages can provide a variety of benefits, but women are more likely than men to be consuming specific foods and beverages to:

- Maintain overall health & wellness (53% vs 46%)

- Provide higher levels of satiety (42% vs 27%)

- Improve digestive health (41% vs 33%)

- Diminish the effects of current health problems (34% vs 27%)

- Improve physical energy or stamina (34% vs 27%)

- Improve mental performance (34% vs 27%)

- Reduce the risk of getting specific diseases (33% vs 25%)

- Improve overall appearance (30% vs 20%)

In addition, the 2008 Food & Health Survey shows that women are more likely than men to be somewhat or extremely satisfied with their health status, but are also more concerned about their weight and more likely to be making changes to their diet to improve its healthfulness.

According to Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, MS, RD, Director of Health and Nutrition at the IFIC Foundation, "There are real distinctions between what women and men do and think about the foods they consume." She adds, "It's clear these groups have different priorities and circumstances that influence what they do in regards to their nutritional habits."

The data were presented today during a special Web cast. Dr. Jenna Bell-Wilson, a nationally recognized dietitian and nutrition writer, talked about the importance of eating the right foods for women. "Women have unique nutritional needs that are not only different from men, but can shift throughout our lives. Starting in our teens, we focus on foods rich in calcium and vitamin D and a foundation of good habits, expanding to antioxidants in our 20's and 30's, and making our heart health a priority as we hit our 40's and above."

Meanwhile, Dr. Chris Mohr, a registered dietitian who has written hundreds of articles on men's nutrition and fitness, says, "As a society, we are often overfed yet undernourished. Loading up with the right nutrients can truly impact how you feel, keep your energy high, and reduce the risk of disease throughout your entire life. Focusing on fruits and vegetables, including high fiber foods, and opting for omega-3 fats is crucial for optimizing health and vitality."

They both agree that no matter what your gender, healthful eating should be a priority, and everyone can reap the benefits from a variety of foods that can help maintain health and wellness.