Last updated 1 day 8 hours ago
Babies are one of the happiest miracles in life, and when it comes to something as important as you and your child’s health, planning ahead is always best.
For many couples, getting ready for a new arrival often begins once they confirm they are expecting. But, by the time couples learn they are expecting, they may have missed a critical window of opportunity to ensure a healthy start.
There is evidence that many preconception interventions can reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as birth defects, miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm delivery. Learning what preconception planning is, why you should do it, and when to start planning is pertinent to your family’s future!
We invite you to join us at a free preconception planning class on Saturday, June 29th to learn about topics including:
· Reproductive planning
· Fears about pregnancy
· Medications
· Mental health and stress
· Your partner’s role
These are just a few of the topics we will explore throughout the event. To learn more, visit http://www.startingmyfamily.com. Be sure to register here because what you do before pregnancy is just as important as what you do during pregnancy!
Last updated 8 days ago
Did you know that stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of long-term disability? To celebrate National Stroke Awareness Month, we hosted a stroke awareness and prevention health fair on May 29. We had an informative day with many knowledgeable physicians, nurses, dieticians and rehabilitation specialists. The event included give-aways, refreshments, and numerous activities from cooking demonstrations to stroke risk assessments.
We also had great guest speakers :
· Kenneth Lynn, MD: “Life After Stroke”
· Shuichi Suzuki, MD, PhD: “2013 What’s New in Neuroendovascular Treatment”
· Johnny Delashaw, MD: “Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Symptoms, Prevention, Treatment”
· Lauri Young: Stroke Survivor
Thank you to all who attended. Remember to educate yourself because stroke can be largely preventable!
Last updated 13 days ago
Alan Israel, M.D., from MemorialCare Medical Group sat down with Laguna Woods’ TV6 to talk about cholesterol, blood pressure, weight, and the importance of setting goals for your health with your physician.
Watch Dr. Israel’s interview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMSvywJpVxw
Sadly, millions of people are living with high blood pressure, and some don’t know it! Dr. Israel deems blood pressure as the “silent killer” because it’s something many are living with, without knowing it. When asked how often one should come in for blood pressure checkups, Dr. Israel states “that it depends on how well your blood pressure is controlled. It all depends on age, health, and family history. The good news is that it can be treated with physical activity, proper diet, and sometimes medicine!” He also advises that alcohol and tobacco are often part of the problem and quitting is well worth the aggravation.
On the topic of cholesterol, Dr. Israel says that cholesterol numbers vary depending on the individual. Since there is no specific number to aim for, Dr. Israel recommends sitting down with your doctor to discuss your cholesterol, your needs and goals, and what you can do to maintain a healthy number.
Weight is yet another number to constantly monitor and aim to control. Compared to cholesterol and blood pressure, weight is an easier number to measure using the body mass index (BMI). BMI is a chart that suggests how much you should weigh for your height and age. Unhealthy weight can often be remedied through proper diet and exercise.
To wrap up, here are a few healthy tips from Dr. Israel:
· Go to seminars to educate yourself!
· See your physician to discuss your goals and the healthiest ways to achieve them!
· Physical activity is important! It can be as simple as going for a walk, cleaning your home or going dancing. Anything that gets you to MOVE!
Tags: Women’s Hospital Orange County, Orange County women’s health, orange county, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, Alan Israel, M.D., MemorialCare Medical Group
Last updated 15 days ago
We have all heard that it is necessary to drink 8 glasses of water a day, but is it true? Well, it is somewhat true. Like many things regarding health, it depends on the individual. Weight, height, age, and activity level should all be taken into account. For example, a teenage football player who is constantly sweating during the big game should probably drink more than the fans watching the game. But, a valuable rule of thumb is to always get at least 8 glasses of water a day to maintain hydration.
In order to be sure you are well hydrated, you should look at how often you are urinating and the color of your urine. If it is a darker yellow color and you are not using the restroom a few times throughout the day, you are probably dehydrated.
Water has many health benefits such as:
· Maintains a healthy body temperature
· Regulates circulation
· Removes toxins
· Helps metabolism
· Weight loss
· Removes waste
· Prevents dehydration
Be aware of your daily intake and be sure to drink up!
Last updated 20 days ago
This Sunday, June 2, is National Cancer Survivors Day. Almost everyone has been affected by cancer in some way. Whether it’s you, your friend, a parent, family, or coworker, it’s likely everyone knows someone who has had to face cancer. Although cancer is not something usually celebrated, National Cancer Survivors Day is a day to celebrate life and honor all who have overcome and are overcoming the illness.
“National Cancer Survivors Day is a celebration for those who have survived, an inspiration for those recently diagnosed, a gathering support for families, and an outreach to the community.” – National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation
How have you been affected by cancer? Are you a survivor? We encourage you to share your story with us in the comments section of the blog and on our Facebook Page.
