healthy valley rgv april 2015 - issue 78
DESCRIPTION
Driscoll Children’s Craniofacial and Cleft CenterTRANSCRIPT
healthy valley®
ISSUE 78
RGV
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BRAIN EXUBERANCE
Driscoll Children’s
Craniofacial and Cleft Center
Elimination DIETS
NEW YORKSUMMERCAMP
Should You Really Cut Food Groups from Your Diet?
CELEBRATING
FACES OF
OUR FUTURE
. . . A WISE
INVESTMENT
Call us today to set up your FREE CONSULTATION! (956) 661-58122101 S. Cynthia, Plex D, McAllen, TX 78503
Don’t forget to ask about our Pharmaceutical Grade Anti-Aging Skin Care Products and Monthly Specials!
www.thefaceplacergv.com
Have you visited The Face Place?
We’re the COSMETIC SIDE of the Valley ENT!
thefaceplaceatvent thefaceplaceatvent
ULTHERAPY®
BOTOX®
JUVÉDERMTM
VOLUMATM
SKIN TIGHTENING
CHEMICAL PEELS
LASER TATTOO REMOVAL
SWEDISH RELAXATION MASSAGE
FACIALS & MASKS
BLACKHEAD REMOVAL
BLEPHAROPLASTY (IN-OFFICE SURGICAL)
FACE & NECK LIFTS (IN-OFFICE SURGICAL)
IN-OFFICE LIPOSUCTION
[email protected] | 1430 South DIxie Hwy, suite 315 | Coral Gables, FL 33146 | PH 305-395-4554 www.HealthyMagazine.com
WH
AT
’SINSIDEhv
HEALTHY BODY, MIND & SOUL
FITNES & BEAUTY
HEALTHY KIDS
34. ELIMINATION DIETS: SHOULD YOU REALLY
CUT FOOD GROUPS FROM YOUR DIET?
36. BRAIN EXUBERANCE
ISSUE 78
16. BUT WHO WON THE GAME?
18. COLONOSCOPY: IT’S WORTH IT!
26. BALANCING IT ALL: FAMILY, FRIENDS,
WORK, ALONE TIME
28. HEART DISEASE: AN EPIDEMIC THAT IS PREVENTABLE
AND REVERSIBLE
30. FACING CRISES IN OUR LIVES: A LOGOTHERAPY PERSPECTIVE
32. THE LIVER, AN IMPORTANT YIN ORGAN
10. DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S CRANIOFACIAL
AND CLEFT CENTER
12. CELEBRATING FACES OF OUR FUTURE
. . . A WISE INVESTMENT
14. NEW YORK SUMMER CAMP
It’s springtime! The lofting fragranced of the wildflowers awakens my senses and puts a smile in my soul, no matter the weather.
Along with the flowers come the cleansing rains to freshen the air. One can hear lawn mowers throughout the neighborhood as people try to bring nature’s beauty and vibrancy back to their homes.
Driscoll Children’s Craniofacial and Cleft Center, this month’s feature, specializes in helping children who have overcome physical challenges, ranging from congenital cleft lips and skull abnormalities to burns and dog attacks, to live the beautiful vibrant lives they deserve. Drs. Kevin Hopkins and Vanessa Dimas are as passionate about giving children their normalcy back as nature is persistent about reviving itself after a long winter.
As you follow Mother Nature through this season of renewal, it is my desire that you continue to bloom and find balance in your daily lives.
PublisherMauricio Portillo
Editor in ChiefClaudia Portillo Del Valle
Marketing DirectorArnaldo Del Valle
Copy EditorLora Incardona
Website DirectorHealthy Media
Graphic DesignHealthy Media
PhotographyHealthy Media
Contributing WritersJoseph P. Litam, MDSimone Jacquemin, MSVirgilio Sanchez Jr., MDConsuelo Camarillo de Gonzalez, Lic. AcLora Incardona, M.Ed.Megan Clunan, LMHCPatricia RosenlundCarolina PortesJulia RogueRubel Shelly
Social Media DirectorFaride Del Valle
healthy magazine is a free monthly publication. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The material in this magazine is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis, or recommended treatments. healthy magazine and its contributors accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, and the advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any error. Printed in Mexico
[email protected] South DIxie Hwy, suite 315Coral Gables, Fl 33146PH 305-395-4554
www.HealthyMagazine.com
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Editor in ChiefClaudia Portillo
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10. DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S CRANIOFACIAL AND CLEFT CENTER
12. CELEBRATING FACES OF OUR FUTURE . . . A WISE INVESTMENT
14. NEW YORK SUMMER CAMP
Kids
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“The work we do here is so rewarding,” Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Craniofacial and Cleft Center’s Dr. Hopkins said. “We talk about giving our patients their normalcy back. That’s our goal. We want our patients to go on and lead successful and joyous lives, and we do what we can on our end to help that happen.”
The Driscoll Children’s Hospital Craniofacial and Cleft Center—headed by plastic surgeons Dr. Hopkins and Vanessa Dimas, MD—is dedicated to providing comprehensive craniofacial and cleft care to the children of South Texas. The Craniofacial and Cleft Center is located in Corpus Christi and serves South Texas with satellite clinics in Brownsville, Harlingen, McAllen and Laredo. It is the only facility of its kind in South Texas.
“I’m from San Antonio, so I’ve loved South Texas all my life,” Dr. Dimas said. “I’m so proud to be in Corpus Christi and in all our clinics in the Rio Grande Valley and Laredo. Having a facility like this in Corpus Christi, as well as the satellite clinics, is such an advantage for all the children in South Texas. We’re in a convenient location for such a large segment of this state, and we offer state-of-the-art care.”
The Craniofacial and Cleft Center treats about 400 patients a year who have overcome physical challenges ranging from congenital cleft lips and skull abnormalities to burns and dog attacks.
“Some of our patients we’ve been working with from birth and others have had a traumatic injury later in life,” Dr. Hopkins said. “In either case, our goal is the same: to get patients healthy physically and in a good place to go on with the rest of their lives.”
Children with craniofacial anomalies, whether congenital or acquired, frequently have medical and social concerns above and beyond the anatomical defect. The Craniofacial and Cleft Center was established to provide optimal care and improve the quality of life for patients and families of children with facial differences. That includes ensuring the patients receive proper speech and hearing therapy as well as dental care on a regular basis.
CRANIOFACIAL AND CLEFT CENTER
DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S
Kevin Hopkins, MD, shares a laugh with two-year-old patient Mykayla Pineda during a checkup at Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Craniofacial and Cleft Center.
Kevin Hopkins, MD, recognizes that his job as a pediatric plastic surgeon is much more than healing the wounds of children. The work he does also helps his patients fit in with their peers and gives them a better chance to lead healthy, normal lives.
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“When we’re finished with a surgery or a procedure, we’re not done,” Dr. Hopkins said. “We continue seeing our patients to make sure they’re completely back on track as far as their speech and hearing go and to assist with any dental challenges they may face.”
The Craniofacial and Cleft Center team works diligently to provide early diagnoses, compassionate care and holistic management to patients with congenital or acquired anomalies of the face and craniofacial region. The Craniofacial
and Cleft Center team embraces the internationally recognized and accepted treatment parameters put forth by the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association and never lose sight of the patient as a unique individual.
“We appreciate the fact that as children grow and develop, their challenges and needs change,” Dr. Dimas said. “Recognizing this, we are always determined to change and adapt with the patient and the family.”As is the case throughout Driscoll Children’s Hospital, there is a familial feel at the Craniofacial and Cleft Center. Seeing a lot of their patients from birth, Dr. Hopkins and Dr. Dimas create bonds with their patients and their families. They celebrate those relationships each year with a Craniofacial and Cleft Center reunion that brings together current and former patients for a relaxing afternoon outside the hospital environment.
“We see 400 or so children a year and you never lose track of them,” Dr. Hopkins said. “A lot of times, you’re working with them from the day they’re born, and from then on, they’re your patients. Our team members are all essential in helping these young children to succeed in life. They’re kind of your patient for life. We love our kids. We really do think of this as one big family and we think of the patients as our extended family. We do things like the
reunion to celebrate that relationship.” It’s a relationship that’s valuable to the surgeons and staff at Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Craniofacial and Cleft Center.
“We’re here for the children of South Texas, from the Rio Grande Valley to Laredo to Corpus Christi and all areas in between,” Dr. Hopkins said. “We say that with a great sense of responsibility and we say that with pride. South Texas is our home and our patients are our family.”
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MCALLENDriscoll Children’s Medical Plaza1120 East Ridge Road, Suite 220
McAllen, Texas956-688-1289
BROWNSVILLE
Driscoll Children’s Specialty Center5500 N. ExpresswayBrownsville, Texas
956-688-1379
LAREDODriscoll Children’s Specialty Center
10710 McPherson Ave., Suite 202Laredo, Texas956-794-8400
Vanessa Dimas, MD, puts one-year-old patient Amiabella Moir at ease during a recent visit to Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Craniofacial and Cleft Center.
Kevin Hopkins, MD, and Vanessa Dimas, MD,
are plastic surgeons at Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Craniofacial
and Cleft Center. They provide care for patients across South Texas, including Corpus Christi and satellite clinics in
Brownsville, Harlingen, McAllen and Laredo.
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Helping children and families get a good start in life is a wise investment. When children receive the right treatment and therapy they need before the age of five, they are ready to learn alongside their peers, build lifelong skills and achieve their dreams.
Easter Seals staff, therapists and families know what’s possible when kids get the support they need during the first few years of life—and what happens when they don’t. Every year, millions of young children with unidentified disabilities and delays enter school with learning and health issues that put them far behind their peers and have a lasting, negative effect on their abilities to meet their full potentials. By investing in quality early intervention and early learning programs for children before the age of five, there is a positive impact that more than pays for itself.
Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley has expanded services and broadened community partnerships to meet the critical needs of young children and their families. By providing families access to quality early learning programs, they can receive the support they need to help their children acquire the skills needed to start school ready to learn.
Through home visiting programs and working with community partners, Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley is always the best first call when there is a concern about a child’s development.
EASTER SEALS HOME VISITING PROGRAMS Texas Home Visiting is a free program that matches parents with a trained home visitor who goes to the home. The home visitor is experienced and can answer questions about pregnancy or being a parent and can help find services that help parents
Providing high quality early intervention and early learning programsEaster Seals Rio Grande Valley: 956-631-9171
Faces of Our Future… a wise investment
TEXT TO GIVE: 1 Text to 41444 2 In your message: RGV and 3 Hit send
1217 Houston, McAllen, TX 78501 www.easterseals-rgv.org
By Patricia Rosenlund, Easter Seals RGV, Executive Director
meet the needs of their children. Texas Home Visiting uses programs that are proven to support families from pregnancy until the time the child enters kindergarten.
Easter Seals Project HOPES* program serves families in the Hidalgo County area with children ages 0 to 5 years, including prenatal support. HOPES is designed to promote Healthy Outcomes through Prevention and Early Support with the goal to strengthen the parent-child relationship through developmental parenting and improved healthy family function. *This project is funded by The State of Texas.
Parents as Teachers is the program model used as the foundation in both the Texas Home Visiting and the HOPES projects. Parents as Teachers works with any family expecting a child or with children up to kindergarten age (age 5 or 6). Parents as Teachers teaches parents about child development and gives parenting support to help ensure that young children are healthy, safe and ready to learn. The program includes one-on-one home visits, monthly group meetings, developmental testing and a resource network for families.
Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters, or HIPPY, is part of the Texas Home Visiting program for families with children ages 3, 4 or 5. HIPPY helps prepare children for school and beyond and believes that all parents want what’s best for their children. Each week a home instructor works on that week’s activities that are focused on reading, counting and learning colors as well as other activities to get children ready for kindergarten. HIPPY helps parents be their children’s first teacher by giving them the tools, skills and confidence they need to work with their children in the home.
HEALTHY KIDS
CELEBRATING FACES OF OUR FUTURE . . . A WISE INVESTMENT
Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) helps parents help their children reach their full potential. The ECI program provides therapy services in the home to support the family with the tools they need to incorporate instruction and therapy in their child’s day-to-day activities. The activities promote growth and development through daily routines and in a natural environment. ECI is a parent support program that helps families help their children, under 3 years old, reach their full potential through developmental services including screening and assessment; physical, occupational and speech language therapy; and development services and case management.
Home visiting programs give families the individualized support, tools and information they need to support their children’s growth and development. Home visiting programs focus on the early learning needs of children during their first few years of life that are crucial to every young child’s development and provide the foundation needed to reach his or her full potential.
The Easter Seals home visiting programs provide a network of support and work closely with other community partners to serve children and their families to ensure they have the best start in life. Quality early intervention and quality early learning programs are a wise investment.
38th Annual
TELETHONApril 11th, noon to 5:00pm, Channel 5
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IDEA HIGH SCHOOLS RANK IN TOP 1%
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SUMMER CAMP
Movie Making & Music Videos, FWC TV (green screen), Radio, News Reporting and Sportscasting, Print and Broadcast Journalism, Creative Writing, Screen & Play Writing, FWC Times – Desktop Publishing, Public Speaking & Debate.
Tennis, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Volleyball, Golf, Gymnastics, Gaga ball, Archery, Extreme Sports, Fitness Center – Weight Training, Zumba, Yoga, Stretching and Flexibility, Strength And Toning.
Computer Sciences and Programming, Graphic Design, Game Design, Network Technologies, App Development, Web Technologies and Design, Database Management, Microsoft Office & Adobe Suite, Information Systems.
FWC produces 3 full musicals or plays each summer for campers who attend a minimum or 4 weeks. Acting, Theater Games, Stage Combat, Improv, Mime, Acapella and Voice, Tech Theater and Set Design, Dance - Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Modern.
COMMUNICATIONS SPORTS TECHNOLOGY THEATER & DANCE
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Waterskiing, Wakeboarding, Tubing, Banana Boat, Swimming. Experience the rush of the Water Sports program on French Woods 80 acre private natural spring-fed lake. All aquatics staff have a boating license, are water safety instructors, and/or are certified lifeguards.
Painting, Stained Glass, Drawing, Leather Craft, Candle Making, Jewelry Making, Paper Mache, Ceramics, Tie Dye, Print Making, Mural Painting, Graffiti, Puppetry.
Gymnastics, Flying Trapeze, Aerials - Silks, Spanish Web, Lyra, Static Trapeze, Unicycle, Juggling, Diablo, Tightwire, Rolling Globe, Rolla Bolla, Mini Trampoline, Circus Education.
Card Games, Dungeons and Dragons, (LARP) Live Action Role Playing, Esports, Online Gaming, Video Games, Minecraft.
WATERFRONT VISUAL ARTS CIRCUS
Rock Shop – Rock & Roll, Pop, Hip Hop, Metal, Alternative, Music Production – Beats, Electronic Music, Recording, Djing, Instruments – Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keyboard, Song Writing.
MUSIC ROLE PLAYING
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PO Box 640, Hancock, New York 13783
844-834-CAMP (2267) www.fwsportsarts.com
French Woods Sports and Arts Center (FWC) is a premier American summer camp set in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. The Camp is located in Hancock, NY, only 2.5 hours from New York City. Campers ages 12-17 can attend for 2-, 4-, 6-, or 8-week sessions.
FWC is one of very few sleepaway camps in America that is specifically for teenagers. Campers enjoy traditional and not-so-traditional summer camp activities with outstanding modern facilities unequaled in camping, strong elective program options and highly qualified and experienced staff.
FWC offer a fully elective program with exceptional programs in land sports, visual arts, digital arts/technology, circus, rock and roll music, electronic music, dance, water sports, theater, communications, computers, role playing games, radio, magic, equestrian, SAT/ACT Prep, ESL, extreme sports and cooking. All this and more rolled up together into one incredible summer experience!
French Woods Sports and Arts Center is an excellent choice when considering summer camps for your
teenager and is fully accredited by the American Camp Association.
There are six activities per day, each one hour in length; three of these periods are called majors and three are called minors.
Majors are chosen at the beginning of each session and are maintained for two weeks. Minors are chosen daily at breakfast. This lets campers concentrate on the things that interest them, while providing the chance to try something new.
Counselors, head counselors and the program director will work with each teen to help customize a program that’s right for the camper.
Whatever stage you are at in selecting a summer camp, FWC staff are happy to help. In addition to speaking on the phone and emails they offer year-round tours of camp and home visits.
Register online or call for more info today!
16 HEALTHY VALLEY
By Rubel Shelly
HV HEALTHY SOUL
There is a juvenile correctional facility in Gainesville, Texas, for youthful felony offenders. All states have such facilities and Texas has more than one. Most of us ask ourselves how people so young can get into such serious trouble. The logical next question is this: What can we do to prevent it from happening?
I am not smart enough to figure out a full and definitive answer to so complex a problem but a recent CBS news story by Steve Hartman may contain an important insight worth considering.
One of the few times the young male offenders at Gainesville get to leave their prison is for a handful of basketball games played against nearby private schools who will permit them to play on their campuses. The boys earn the right by being on their best behavior. Break a rule and the experience is denied.
Last month, Gainesville was scheduled to play Vanguard College Prep School in Waco. Two Vanguard players—Hudson Bradley and Ben Martinson— talked with their coach and other school officials about an idea they had. How much fun could it be for the Gainesville team to compete without fans to cheer for them? With no cheerleaders? In a gym packed with folks rooting against you?
So they made this proposal: Let’s ask some of our own fans to form a cheering section for Gainesville.
BUT WHO WON THE GAME?
Once the idea was approved, it caught on quickly. Some girls formed a cheerleading squad for Gainesville. Other students made signs. Half of the gym’s seating was designated for people who would cheer for Gainesville.
The young prison team had no idea what was going on until they arrived for the game. They were cheered as they went on the court and warmed up. A good defensive play or points scored got screaming fans on their feet—screaming for the Gainesville kids, not at them. It only picked up momentum as the game continued, until every person in the gymnasium was cheering for Gainesville.
“I mean every time they scored, the gym was just lit up with cheering and clapping. And everyone was on their feet,” said Hudson Bradley. “I think, in a way, this is kind of how sports should be. It just kind of showed me the real impact that encouragement and support for anybody can make.” He dared to speculate that we all need people to believe in us. We all need for somebody who knows our history, our mistakes and our failures to still care about us, to love us anyway.
“When I’m an old man,” said one player on the Gainesville team, “I’ll still be thinking about this.” Maybe that’s the insight from the story. Doesn’t everybody need a cheerleader? A mentor? Somebody who won’t quit on him?
By the way, wondering who won? Everybody who was there that day.
16. BUT WHO WON THE GAME?
18. COLONOSCOPY IT’S WORTH IT!
26. BALANCING IT ALL: FAMILY, FRIENDS, WORK, ALONE TIME
28. HEART DISEASE: AN EPIDEMIC THAT IS PREVENTABLE AND REVERSIBLE
30. FACING CRISES IN OUR LIVES A LOGOTHERAPY PERSPECTIVE
32. THE LIVER, AN IMPORTANT YIN ORGAN
BodyMind &Soul
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18 HEALTHY VALLEY
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McALLEN
For more information about cancer prevention, please visit www.TexasOncology.com or call 1-888-864-I CAN (4226).
Dr. Joseph P. Litam is a medical oncologist at Texas Oncology–McAllen, 1901 South 2nd Street in McAllen, Texas.By Dr. Joseph P. Litam, Texas Oncology–McAllen
>
HEALTHY BODY
A colonoscopy is a great example of something many would prefer not to do and often delay. Colonoscopies get the worst rap of all the cancer screenings and it’s not hard to understand why. We generally don’t discuss them at the dinner table and they tend to be a bit embarrassing. Between the prep and the procedure, you have to invest a bit of time. But at the end of the day, it is worth it.
Detecting cancer early through colonoscopy can be a lifesaver, which is the best reason to have one done. Typically, colorectal cancer doesn’t have symptoms in its earliest stages, when treatment is more likely to produce the best outcomes. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly occurring type of cancer, accounting for about eight percent of all cancer cases nationally. The American Cancer Society estimates that 10,050 Texans will be diagnosed and 3,470 people will die from the disease this year.
Colonoscopies are a great investment of your time. We spend a lot of effort protecting our health by staying active and eating right, and it only makes sense to protect our health in this way too. Unlike monthly self-exams, most people only need a colonoscopy once a decade, unless their doctors advise otherwise. As an added bonus,
By Joseph P. Litam, MD
a colonoscopy can be both a screening and prevention exam, since precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure.
A colonoscopy simply isn’t as bad as its reputation. Yes, you have to prep, which is probably the worst part. Yes, you’ll definitely want to be home the afternoon before your procedure. However, I’m confident that if you asked my patients, most would tell you that even the prep wasn’t as bad as they had heard; the procedure itself was a piece of cake—after all, you are asleep; and the peace of mind they have now made it all worthwhile.
A colonoscopy every 10 years, starting at age 50, is the gold standard of colon cancer screenings. If you’re still reluctant to have a colonoscopy, please don’t give up on screenings altogether. There are other, less-invasive methods but they need to be conducted more often and may not be the best option for you. Talk to your doctor about which screening is most appropriate for you.
March was colon cancer awareness month. If you’re due for a colonoscopy, stop putting it on your to-do list and move it to your “done” list. You won’t regret the decision.
There are several things on my to-do list that I’m really good at putting off. They need to be done but I don’t like disrupting my routine or taking time away from other activities to make them happen. However, when it comes to cancer screenings, it’s worth a little disruption. It can give you peace of mind. Or, if cancer is detected, the earlier we find it, the more treatment options we have.
COLONOSCOPY It’s Worth It!
McALLEN
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546
Texas Oncology delivers high-quality cancer care with leading-edge technology and advanced treatment options to help patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.” in their fights against cancer. Texas Oncology, a pioneer in community-based cancer care, is an independent oncology practice with sites of service throughout Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Texas Oncology patients have the opportunity to take part in some of the most promising clinical trials in the nation for a broad range of cancers. In fact, Texas Oncology has played an integral role in gaining Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for 29 of the latest cancer therapies.
Billie J. Marek, MD, FACPMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Marker is board-certified and specializes in medical oncology and heamatology. He currently serves as a director of Texas Oncology and is the medical director for Texas Oncology-McAllen. He has served the Rio Grande Valley for the past 22 years as a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been recognized as a “Super Doctor” in oncology for five years in a row, and was recognized as Doctor of The Year for Rio Grande Regional. Dr. Marek received his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Alvaro Restrepo, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
“I can be part of your team... and together we can fight the battle.” Dr. Restrepo specializes in, medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at the University of Miami. He also serves on the reast Cancer Committee of US Oncology and has completed a fellowship in breast cancer treatment. Through the Life Beyond Cancer Fundation he established the Texas Oncology–McAllen Breast Cancer Ride/Walk undraiser to raise funds for Rio Grande Valley cancer patients. To date approximately $30,000 has been donated to cancer patients in the Rio
Grande Valley.
Suresh Ratnam, MD, FACPMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Ratnam has been with Texas Oncology-McAllen for 13 years, which he joined after completing his fellowship at the renowned National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. He has co-authored several research publications and is passionate about cutting-edge oncology care. He currently serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee of US Oncology and chairman of the Credentials Committee for South Texas Health System.
www.TexasOncology.com
McALLEN
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546
Texas Oncology delivers high-quality cancer care with leading-edge technology and advanced treatment options to help patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.” in their fights against cancer. Texas Oncology, a pioneer in community-based cancer care, is an independent oncology practice with sites of service throughout Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Texas Oncology patients have the opportunity to take part in some of the most promising clinical trials in the nation for a broad range of cancers. In fact, Texas Oncology has played an integral role in gaining Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for 29 of the latest cancer therapies.
Billie J. Marek, MD, FACPMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Marker is board-certified and specializes in medical oncology and heamatology. He currently serves as a director of Texas Oncology and is the medical director for Texas Oncology-McAllen. He has served the Rio Grande Valley for the past 22 years as a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been recognized as a “Super Doctor” in oncology for five years in a row, and was recognized as Doctor of The Year for Rio Grande Regional. Dr. Marek received his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Alvaro Restrepo, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
“I can be part of your team... and together we can fight the battle.” Dr. Restrepo specializes in, medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at the University of Miami. He also serves on the reast Cancer Committee of US Oncology and has completed a fellowship in breast cancer treatment. Through the Life Beyond Cancer Fundation he established the Texas Oncology–McAllen Breast Cancer Ride/Walk undraiser to raise funds for Rio Grande Valley cancer patients. To date approximately $30,000 has been donated to cancer patients in the Rio
Grande Valley.
Suresh Ratnam, MD, FACPMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Ratnam has been with Texas Oncology-McAllen for 13 years, which he joined after completing his fellowship at the renowned National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. He has co-authored several research publications and is passionate about cutting-edge oncology care. He currently serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee of US Oncology and chairman of the Credentials Committee for South Texas Health System.
www.TexasOncology.com
Nurul Wahid, MDMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Wahid was fellowship-trained in medical oncology and hematology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York. He has been recognized as Physician of the Year at Rio Grande State Center in Harlingen where he has served as senior attending physician for the past 13 years.
Guillermo Lazo, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Lazo specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a recipient of several awards including the American Society of Clinical Oncology Merit Award and is the author of several peer-reviewed medical publications as well as book chapters. He received
the highest honors on the professional examination for his medical doctorate degree.
Joseph Litam, MDMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Litam was fellowship-trained at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He is well known in the community and was in private practice for 27 years before joining Texas Oncology. He has special interest in treating solid tumors.
Nirupama Shekar, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Shekar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. She completed her fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland and trained at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer
Center.
Phoebe Verano, RN, FNP-BCNurse Practitioner
“In a patient’s journey through cancer care, patient education is an important first step following diagnosis and treatment plan development. I am committed to preparing cancer patients for their journeys and assuring they
know that we are always here to support them.”
Benjamin West, MDRadiation OncologyDr. West is board-certified radiation oncologist. He was physicist prior to becoming a physician.
Rogelio Salinas, MDRadiation Oncology
Dr. Salinas is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He completed his residency training at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center in New York followed by his fellowship at The University of Texas MD Anderson
Cancer Center.
Debbie Gillett, R.N., N.P.Nurse Practitioner“Cancer prevention is a high priority. My aim is to identify individuals who may be at high risk for cancer and work with them to develop a plan to reduce that risk.” Debbie Gillett is a nurse practitioner.
Harlingen
Harlingen 2121 Pease Street, Suite 101 Harlingen, Texas 78550 PH: 956.425.8845 FAX: 956.364.6793
Marco A. Araneda, MDMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Araneda specializes in medical oncology and is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from San Carlos University in Guatemala and completed a medical oncology fellowship at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, as well as a fellowship in bone marrow transplantation at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. He has special interests in breast cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, hematologic malignancies, and molecular targeted therapy.
Nabeel SarhillMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is board-certified in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine. He earned his medical doctorate from the University of Tishreen Medical School in Lattakia, Syria, and completed his residency in internal medicine at Case Wester Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. His fellowship in hematology was completed at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, and his clinical research fellowship in medicine and symptoms management at The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Syrian Medical Association, Syrian Ministry of Health, American Board of Hematology, American Board of Medical Oncology, and
the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Benjamin West, MD Radiation OncologyDr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.
www.TexasOncology.com
Harlingen
Harlingen 2121 Pease Street, Suite 101 Harlingen, Texas 78550 PH: 956.425.8845 FAX: 956.364.6793
Marco A. Araneda, MDMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Araneda specializes in medical oncology and is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from San Carlos University in Guatemala and completed a medical oncology fellowship at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, as well as a fellowship in bone marrow transplantation at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. He has special interests in breast cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, hematologic malignancies, and molecular targeted therapy.
Nabeel SarhillMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is board-certified in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine. He earned his medical doctorate from the University of Tishreen Medical School in Lattakia, Syria, and completed his residency in internal medicine at Case Wester Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. His fellowship in hematology was completed at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, and his clinical research fellowship in medicine and symptoms management at The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Syrian Medical Association, Syrian Ministry of Health, American Board of Hematology, American Board of Medical Oncology, and
the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Benjamin West, MD Radiation OncologyDr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.
www.TexasOncology.com 2150 N. Expressway 83 Brownsville, TX 78521 PH: 956-548-0810 FAX: 956-548-2239 www.TexasOncology.com
BrownsvilleBalesh Sharma, MDMedical Oncology/HematologyBalesh Sharma, MD specializes in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. He is board certified by in medical oncology. Dr. Sharma received an MD Delhi University in New Delhi, India, in 1990, where he also completed his residency in Anesthesia and Critical Care in 1991. He completed his medical internship at Lincoln Medical Center in New York in 1992-93. Dr. Sharma completed his residency in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in affiliation with Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut. In 1998, he completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and has been in private practice since then.
Marcelo Boek, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Boek is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. Prior to him joining Texas Oncology, he conducted clinical research as part of the North Central Cancer Treatment group.
Carlos Gonzalez-Angulo, MDRadiation OncologyDr. Gonzalez specializes in radiation oncology and internal medicine. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine as well as the American Board of Radiology, and is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO). He completed his fellowship in radiation oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, in Buffalo, New York, and also completed a second residency in radiation oncology at Jackson Memorial Hospital/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, in Miami, Florida. Aside from his medical practice, Dr. Gonzalez is a Christian lay minister and a student of ancient Greek.
Mariza D. Oliver, MSN, APRN, FNP-CAdvanced Practice Provider
Mariza is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, and has a Masters degree in Nursing Administration. She has over 17 years experience in nursing and has worked in healthcare areas such as medical-surgical, post-partum, hospice, and home health. She has extensive experience in providing care for the
adult and geriatric population of the Rio Grande Valley.
4770 N. Expressway 83, Suite 305A Brownsville, TX 78526 PH: 956-350-3975 FAX: 956-350-3425
Weslaco 1330 East 6th Street, Suite 204 Weslaco, Texas 78596 PH: 956.969.0021 FAX: 956.968.9744
www.TexasOncology.com
www.TexasOncology.com
WeslacoHabib Ghaddar, MD, FACPMedical Oncology/HematologyDr. Ghaddar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in hematology and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from the American University of Beirut in Beirut, Lebanon. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Good Samaritan Hospital/John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. He completed his fellowship in hematology/oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. He has been in practice with Texas Oncology since 1995.
Daniel Farray, MDMedical Oncology/Hematology
Dr. Farray is board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He received his medical degree in 1998 from the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena in the Dominican Republic and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed his fellowship in medical oncology and hematology in 2006 at Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center/Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Farray ranked first in his medical school class. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American
College of Physicians.
Shamoon Doctor, MDUrology Dr. Doctor specializes in general adult and pediatric urology; urologic oncology; male dysfunction; urinary incontinence and no scalpel vasectomy. Dr. Shamoon Doctor earned his medical degree from Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad, India in 1960. Following graduation, he specialized in general surgery and worked as a general surgeon in Zambia, Africa for five years. He then returned to Canada and specialized in urology. He has practiced urology in Canada and the United States sincce 1974, having practiced in Del Rio, Texas for over 30 years.
TEXAS UROLOGYSPECIALIST
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Today, more than ever, it has become a great challenge for many of us to successfully
manage all aspects of our lives. These areas include, but are not limited to: family, work, friendships and time for self. The challenge to effectively balance these key areas is further multiplied when we are dealing with parents or parenthood. Oftentimes, both parents in the household are employed full-time, making time spent as a family unit exceedingly difficult and scarce.
Because we are all complex beings and have numerous facets, in order to feel completely fulfilled we have an innate need to experience satisfaction on many levels: as a parent, friend, spouse, professional and individual. What usually happens, is that people become engrossed and stuck in one or two areas of their lives (i.e., work , children) while all of the other important areas that make us a whole and complete entity inevitably get neglected. It eventually becomes a pattern or vicious cycle encapsulating a person’s life, which then, inherently, brings forth a lack of fulfillment and disharmony with the person’s vision of his or her “ideal life.” This lack of fulfillment is often the catalyst that leads people to seek help to enable them to better cope with the many demands that face them on a daily basis. It should also be stated, at this point, that in a society that is highly driven by social media (i.e., Facebook), there is a tremendous impact on our desire to devote quality time to those we deem most important in our lives, as well as our decision to remain actively engaged with those in our presence. So, how can we best go about devoting equitable amounts of time and energy to all areas of our lives that we consider significant? The answer is simple: time management.
Because most work schedules demand 40 hours per week, when at home with your spouse and children, making a conscious decision to set aside all distractions (such as cell phones, other technological devices, work- -related matters, etc.) and making a concerted effort to remain present and in the moment with family members will aid in the process of establishing an allotted amount of time devoted Simone Jacquemin, M.S.
Certified Life Coach, Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy/Mental health Counseling
to family. This time can be spent however the family deems enjoyable
i.e., playing board games, engaging in meaningful dialogue, playing
sports together as a family. In addition, weekends are the best days of the week
to capitalize on time spent with family. Attending basketball practice or soccer games
as a family unit is also time well spent.
Setting aside some time to nurture the friendships we’ve built over time is also vital to our mental and emotional well- -being. Spouses can decide to take turns on alternating weekends to get together with friends, either with or without their spouse. Marital symbiosis and individuation are both considered “normal” aspects of the development of a marital relationship. Therefore, spending time together and apart are both qualities of a healthy marriage.
Finally, time spent alone is an equally important feature of a successfully balanced life. It is both healthy and natural to want to spend time by ourselves. Often, this is when we are able to truly hear our own thoughts. Also, these moments of solitude are when we can better gain clarity on an issue plaguing us in our professional or personal lives and are the times we can become most creative and imaginative. If your spouse or elected babysitter is able to manage the children for a couple of hours, it can prove quite beneficial to your mental health. Alone time can be spent reading a novel, exercising or enjoying a cup of coffee without distraction or interruption.
Just as time spent in the company of others helps to develop one’s sense of self, so too, time spent alone further heightens a person’s self- -awareness and helps the individual to refuel and refocus. Essentially, this oneness with the self furthers the level of productivity in the above- -mentioned professional, social and family spheres. So, here’s to finding a copacetic and healthy balance in your life!
BALANCING IT ALL:
By Simone Jacquemin, MS
Family
Friends Work
Alone Time
HEALTHY BODY
Call us today to set up your FREE CONSULTATION! (956) 661-58122101 S. Cynthia, Plex D, McAllen, TX 78503
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28 HEALTHY VALLEY
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Heart disease is our nation’s number one killer, accounting for 1 out of every 4 deaths each year! The primary cause of heart attacks and strokes is the gradual clogging, hardening and damage done to the inside walls of our blood vessels.
Heart attacks major warning signs and symptoms may include:
• Chest pain or discomfort• Upper body pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or
upper stomach• Shortness of breath• Nausea,lightheadedness, or cold sweats
You can prevent and even reverse heart disease by following a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Here are 10 strategies to help you protect your heart:
1. Eat a healthy wholefood diet - Eat at Least 8 to 10 servings of colorful fruits and vegetables a day, which contain important disease fighting micronutrients. Also eat Lots of beans and legumes, raw nuts, seeds, avocados, whole grains and some lean meats. Reduce or avoid processed foods. These usually contain high amounts of sugar, salt, harmful trans-fats and artificial chemicals.
2. Avoid too much sugar - which can raise your blood pressure and damage your arteries. Maintain a fasting blood sugar between 70- 85 mg/dl.
3. Get Moving - Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity is a must for having a healthy heart. Exercise helps you
HEART DISEASE:An Epidemic That Is Preventable and Reversible
maintain normal weight. Excess weight is a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
4. Don’t smoke and tobacco use - Smoking or using tobacco are the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease.
5. Take time to relax - We live in a fast-paced hectic world that’s often stressfuL Take some time daily to meditate. Sit quietly for 10-15 minutes, take slow, deep breaths and think peaceful thoughts.
6. Take care of your teeth - People with periodontal disease are more likely to have heart disease and suffer a heart attack than those with healthy gums. Floss daily!
7. Check your cholesterol - Your total cholesterol should be under 200 and your LDL should, be ideally, under 80. But more important, your ratio of HOL to total cholesterol should be more than 24%. Your ratio of triglycerides to HDL should be below 2.
8. Know your blood pressure - Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury.
9. Limit alcohol - In addition to raising blood pressure, too much alcohol can add unneeded calories to your diet. If you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount—one drink a day for women, two drinks a day for men.
10. Get regular health screenings - Regular screenings can tell you what your risks are and whether you need to take action.
Make sure to consult your healthcare professional for any questions concerning your heart health or when to begin any exercise regimen.
If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attock, you should mil 911 immediately.
By Virgilio Sanchez Jr., MD
HEALTHY BODY
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We all face obstacles, challenges and crises in life. Facing a crisis does not mean the we
have done something wrong, deserve to undergo the crisis at hand or are forever doomed. Our lives are not determined by whether or not we will face a crisis, or even the crisis itself,; rather, our lives are determined by how we handle each given crisis.
At some point each of us will face a crisis of some kind. The crisis may be as small as spilling coffee on your shirt before heading into an interview to as big as the death of a loved one to the end of the dream. The very definition of crisis is “a turning point that cannot be avoided.” When it comes to living a healthy life amidst a world of potential crises, how we choose to handle and grow from those crises are key.
Viktor Frankl is the father of Logotherapy. Logo comes from the Greek language and essentially means reason, purpose or meaning. The premise of Logotherapy is that every experience we undergo holds some level of meaning, from which we can glean. Garnering whatever meanings may exist in our experiences gives the experiences more value than they would hold should we perceive our experiences, good and bad, to be without purpose.
Frankl was a Jew who survived the Nazi concentration camps of Theresienstadt, Auschwitz and Dachau. He lost his family, his friends and his livelihood, but he did not lose his dignity despite the horrors he faced. He believed in holding the perspective that even in the worst situation there was meaning. Frankl encouraged hundreds of others to survive the concentration camps, to not give up and not give in to death. He convinced fellow captives to fight for their lives because despite the hellish crisis, their lives still meant something. He would tell those wanting to give in that dying would ultimately be a victory for the Nazi party. As a result, individuals began to see their lives as meaning more than just being laborers in a work-camp. They
Facing Crises in Our LivesA Logotherapy Perspective
saw themselves as more than victims; they saw themselves as survivors with the purpose of living life in defiance of the goals of the Nazi regime.
After the war was over, Frankl worked at a mental health institution, working with the severely suicidal. During his professional life, he worked with over 30,000 suicidal individuals—none of whom committed suicide. He instilled in them the same concepts of Logotherapy that he instilled in his fellow prisoners of war, the reality that even in the lowest points of our lives, even in the most critical of experiences, there is still purpose and meaning to be found.
Frankl firmly understood that meaning matters and in order to live our healthiest lives, it is our duty to find meaning, even in the worst situations. He understood that our responsibility, despite the lack of control we may have over a crisis, is to acknowledge the crises and find meaning in it. Finding meaning does not negate the depth of our struggles or the reality of the crisis, rather it allows a redemptive perspective to stand alongside the pain. Facing a Nazi concentration camp, experiencing the death of a loved one, losing a job or even something as small as spilling coffee on your shirt before going into a major interview are not good things but finding the gift alongside the crisis is what leads to a healthy life.
The Chinese characters for crisis are actually “danger” and “opportunity.” These characters mirror Frankl’s Logotherapy concept. With every crisis there is the danger of not coming out of it, of remaining in that pain and of being defined by that worst moment. Frankel would say such a response is due to our inability to find meaning in that experience. But with every crisis we face, there is also opportunity. Crises present opportunities for growth; for learning more about ourselves, others and the world around us; and for choosing to live a healthy life with a redemptive perspective.
By Megan Clunan, LMHC
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HV ALTERNATIVE
By Consuelo Camarillo De G., Lic. Ac.
THE LIVER, AN IMPORTANT YIN ORGANThe liver is one of the most important organs of the human body. This incredible organ helps to digest all that we eat and drink. Weighing three pounds, this large organ located in the upper right area of the abdomen, hidden behind the rib cage.
The liver controls many metabolic functions, plasma and hormone synthesis, and the metabolism of most medications. It is also in charge of maintaining ideal sugar levels by storing glycogen. In addition, while the body is asleep, the liver works to destroy all the toxins that the body has accumulated and discharges them within the next five hours through urination and bowel movements.
Liver energy is also in charge of blood storage and the smooth flow of Qi (energy). The smooth flow of liver energy helps all the organs to function much better. In the spleen, liver Qi helps to transport the food to all different organs of the body. In the gall bladder it helps to secrete bile to ensure the smooth flow of the energy in the intestines. In the uterus the liver energy helps to have menses.
If liver energy is flowing smoothly, one’s emotional state will be happy and easy going. The person is in good spirits, freely expressing his emotions. When liver energy is low, which seldom occurs, psychological problems (e.g., depression, timidity or lack of initiative) tend to arise. When the liver blood and liver Yin are deficient, symptoms of blood deficiency, such as spotty menses, tiredness, weakness and contractions of the tendons can occur.
When liver energy is stagnated, symptoms like worry, sadness, anger and frustration develop. If stagnation continues for a long period, the result is likely to be a gloomy emotional state of constant resentment, repressed anger or depression.
These emotional symptoms could, in turn, cause physical symptoms such as a feeling of tightness of the chest, distension of the hypogastrium and a feeling of a lump on the throat that makes difficult to swallow. Sigh frequently is also a tendency.
If liver energy stagnates and, therefore, accumulates, for long time, the patient will feel the liver Yang flare up causing irritability, loss of patience and frequent headaches along the side of the head.
Food is important to keep a smooth or stagnant Liver energy. An excessive and constant consumption of hot energy food like red meat, chili pepper or alcohol can lead to liver energy stagnation that, in the long run, can cause liver fire. An excessive consumption of greasy foods, like dairy products and fried foods, can lead to dampness in the liver and the gall bladder as well.
At Behavioral Wellness Center we can help your body return to and maintain the homeostasis that you deserve, keep you tune to your emotions and keep your liver free of obstructions. Working with our Oriental medicine practitioner can help keep your liver energy running smoothly to assist all of your body organs to be healthy, happy and fit.
The liver is a large, meaty organ that sits on the right side of the belly. Weighing about 3 pounds, the liver is reddish-brown in color and feels rubbery to the touch. Normally you can’t feel the liver, because it’s protected by the rib cage.
The liver has two large sections, called the right and the left lobes. The gallbladder sits under the liver, along with parts of the pancreas and intestines. The liver and these organs work together to digest, absorb, and process food.
The liver’s main job is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body. The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs. As it does so, the liver secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines. The liver also makes proteins important for blood clotting and other functions.
34. ELIMINATION DIETS SHOULD YOU REALLY
CUT FOOD GROUPS FROM YOUR DIET?
36. BRAIN EXUBERANCE
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When it comes to weight loss, the idea of cutting certain foods from your
diet is not a new concept; however, when it comes to elimination diets, the idea isn’t about losing weight at all. Instead, it focuses on curing many different illnesses and conditions by removing entire food groups from one’s diet in an effort to determine if certain foods are responsible for causing the maladies.
HOW IT WORKSWhen deciding to do an elimination diet, you have to be prepared to remove all of the foods that are known to cause intolerance issues. This includes, but is not limited to, dairy products, eggs, gluten, nuts, soy, sugar and alcohol. It’s absolutely necessary to abstain from all foods that contain these ingredients for several weeks to ensure that any potential antibodies to the foods are expelled from the body. After a period of time, forbidden foods are added back into the diet one at a time. It takes about two days to notice a negative reaction to the food and if no reaction is noticed, another food can be added to the diet. So it goes until it’s determined which food is the cause of your symptoms.
Elimination
DIETSShould You Really Cut Food Groups from Your Diet?
UNDERSTANDING FOOD INTOLERANCEFood intolerance is not a food allergy, rather the body’s inability to properly digest certain foods. The main difference between intolerance and an allergic reaction is that when ingesting even a tiny amount of a certain food that you are allergic to, you will generally experience an immediate reaction. Intolerance, however, can take as long as two days to show any symptoms. The most common signs of intolerance are:
• Gas or bloating• Nausea • Migraines• Joint pain• Headaches• Hives• Runny nose• Constipation• Brain fog• Fatigue
As you can see, these symptoms are also related to a wide range of issues, from not getting enough sleep to eating too much. If food intolerance is causing these problems, the elimination diet will help you figure it
out, which is good. Whether or not a food intolerance is discovered, it’s important to recognize that you are robbing your body of the beneficial vitamins and minerals during the time in which you are moving through the diet.
SHOULD YOU CONSIDER THE ELIMINATION DIET?If you think you have sensitivities to certain foods, the elimination diet is one means to help determine that; however, ignoring entire food groups for weeks at a time can rob the body of vital nutrients and calories, which can become a bigger issue. Another option is to continue eating normally but remove only one type of food at a time. If you don’t notice a change after a few weeks, add that food back in and remove the next category. This will allow you to continue following a healthy diet while still pinpointing a possible culprit.
If you are determined to follow an elimination diet, you should contact your physician before doing so to prevent any unnecessary health problems or nutrient deficiencies.
By Julia Rogue
HEALTHY FOOD
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36 HEALTHY VALLEY
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As we all know, the brain acts as the control tower of the body, directing the operations of the entire human organism. A healthy brain depends on our lifestyle, which should include balanced nutrition, stress management, physical exercise and brain stimulation.
A perfectly blended beverage containing beet root, green tea, honey, blueberries, almonds and ginger may provide just what our brains are looking for.
Beet root is a superfood for the brain because of its high concentration of nitrates, which widen blood vessels and increase blood flow to the brain.
Green tea is high in EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate), a potent compound that appears to protect neurons from age-related damage and contains antioxidants and theanine, an amino acid that helps the brain focus and relax.
Honey contains all 22 essential amino acids, which provide the building blocks of protein for brain cells.
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that protect brain cells from free-radical damage.
Almonds have dopamine and protein, boosting the brain’s motivation and focus.
Ginger helps support a robust metabolism.
By Carolina Portes
BRAIN EXUBERANCE
PREPARATION
1. Add tea bag to steaming hot water and let steep for 3 minutes. Remove tea bag.
2. Stir honey into tea until dissolved.
3. Using a blender, blend all ingredients, including the tea, until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve and drink immediately.
Drink and fill your brain with wellness!
INGREDIENTS
1 green tea bag
3 tbsp water
1 cup blueberries
2 tsp raw honey
½ cup unsalted whole almonds
½ cup peeled and grated raw beet
½ tsp fresh lime juice
dash of ground ginger
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COMMUNITY EVENTShv
APRIL 11Superheroes for Autism 5K & Buddy Fun Walk7:00 AM – 1:00 PMEdinburg Municipal Park. 714 S. Raul LongoriaEarly Bird registration: 5K- $20, Buddy fun walk-$10, children under 12- FREEIf AUTISM is your Super power- FREEJoin us for a fun, food, entertainment, games, and more!!For more information call 956-219-3895, email [email protected] or go to teammario.webconnex.com/SuperheroesUnite.
Easter Seals 38th Annual Telethon“Faces of our Future...A Wise Investment”12:00 PM – 5:00 PM on Channel 5.For more information call 956-631-9171, email [email protected] or go to www.easterseals-rgv.org.
APRIL 25The American Cancer Society Relay for Life11:00 AM – 11:00 PMBrownsville Sports Park. 1000 Sports Park Blvd.For more information, contact Cathy Weaver at [email protected], 956-682-8320 or 956-245-8485.
The American Cancer Society Relay for Life2:00 PM – 11:00 PMRio Grande Valley Livestock Show Grounds1000 N Texas Ave, MercedesFor more information, contact Julie Kelly at [email protected] or 956-498-8896.
Every Monday
“Doing Healthy Right” Weight Loss Class 12:00 PM and 5:30 PMThe Wellness Center at Renaissance5525 Doctors Dr., EdinburgFor more information, call 956-362-5610.
Every 2nd Monday
Bariatric Patients Support Group6:00 PM – 7:00 PMRio Grande Regional Hospital, Classroom 1 A&B101 E. Ridge Rd., McAllenFor more information, call Jennifer Trevino, RN at 956-661-3560.
Every 3rd Monday
Bariatric Patients Support Group6:00 PM – 7:00 PMValley Regional Hospital100 E. Alton Gloor Blvd., BrownsvilleFor more information, please call, Jennifer Trevino, RN at 956-661-3560.
Every Tuesday
Diabetes Education Class (call for Spanish class)1:00 PMSponsored by South Texas Health SystemMcAllen Medical Center. East Classroom, 3rd Floor301 W. Expressway 83For more information, call 956-971-5851.
Every 2nd Tuesday
Cooking Class 5:30 PMRio Grande Valley Diabetes Association420 S Closner Blvd., Edinburg For more information, call 956-782-1900 or visit www.rgvdiabetesassociation.info.
Every 3rd Tuesday
Spanish: Alzheimer’s Support Group 7:00 PM – 8:30 PMSouth Texas Behavior Health Center2101 W. Trenton Rd., EdinburgFor more information, call 956-388-1300.
Every Wednesday
Cancer Support Group 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHosted by H.O.P.E. – Helping Other Patients EmotionallyFree to cancer patients and caregiversNew McAllen Public Library, Conf. Rm. B4001 N. 23rd St., McAllenFor more information, call 956-624-3840 or email [email protected].
Every 1st Wednesday
La Leche League 9:30 AM – 11:30 AMSupports and encourages mothers who want to breastfeedEdinburg Children’s Hospital, 2nd Floor Family Room1102 W. Trenton Rd., EdinburgFor more information, call Ann at 956-682-9770.
1st and 3rd Wednesdays
Breast Cancer 101 (Support Group)English @ 5:30 PM & Spanish @ 10:00 AMFor women onlyTexas Oncology-McAllen1901 South 2nd St., McAllenFor more information, call 956-687-6169 or email [email protected].
Every 3rd Wednesday
Free Mall Walkers Meetings9:00 AMSunrise Mall in Brownsville (in Luby’s Restaurant)Sponsored by Valley Baptist Medical Center-BrownsvilleFor more information, call 956-389-1950 or visit www.ValleyBaptist.net.
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