Health & Fitness 2012

by Marie Fourie, certified
Metabolic Way coach
Totally Me Salon & Spa
www.totallymesalon.com
407-445-1199

Body shape seems to be a problem for a lot of women, and, as they get older, their bodies can go through unwelcome changes. For these women, getting into shape can be challenging and time-consuming — but no more.

Tightening, lifting and firming the entire body without surgery and needles, and without having to get a second mortgage, is possible. The VIP treatment is painless, and it works.

VIP Italia equipment offers a solution for common problems such as cellulite and sagging skin. It tones and sculpts targeted areas using a procedure that is noninvasive and nonsurgical, so it does not leave scars or cause downtime.

This procedure is on the cutting-edge of aesthetic science, even though it originated in Turin, Italy, more than 40 years ago.

The firming and slimming treatment is a procedure in which electrical stimuli are introduced into the muscle, causing the muscle to contract in rapid succession. The muscle does the work of 1,000 sit-ups in 25 minutes. Clients are not sore after treatment, and they never have to worry about pulling or tearing a muscle. The number of sessions required to produce the desired results vary based on the client’s health and size. After the desired effect is achieved, the results can be maintained with regular exercise.

by David Goldstein, D.M.D.
Pediatric Dentistry
www.smilesdrdavid.com
407-295-5437

After making the decision to use a pacifier, some parents are confused about which type to give their baby. There are many different brands and several features to compare before choosing the right style.

Parents should consider purchasing a pacifier with a symmetrical nipple and shield shape. These pacifiers are designed to be used either side up, so they are always in the correct sucking position, even if a baby twists the pacifier during use.

Other recommended features include a nipple with a soft, flexible neck; large shield vents to prevent skin rashes due to trapped saliva; and a textured inner-shield surface, which helps prevent skin irritation by allowing more air circulation.

Pacifiers should be inspected frequently for signs of wear and discarded if the bulb becomes sticky, swollen or cracked. The normal life span of a pacifier is two to three months.

A bottle nipple should not be substituted for a pacifier, because hard sucking may dislodge the nipple from its cap and cause a child to choke. In addition, a string or cord should not be used to attach a pacifier to a child’s crib or body, as it also presents a danger of strangulation. Instead, parents should purchase an approved pacifier keeper or “leash.”

For safety reasons, an infant should not be left unattended with a pacifier in his mouth, nor should parents let an infant sleep with a pacifier.

by Amanda Stebbins, O.D.
The Spectacle Shoppe
www.thespecshoppe.com
407-409-8123

Some people might wonder why they need an eye exam. They may not have any vision problems and, subsequently, think that everything is OK.

However, they should know that optometrists do not just check for eyeglasses these days, but are rather the primary-care physicians for the eye.

A comprehensive vision exam includes an overall assessment of the health of the eyes and, oftentimes, the entire body. During a comprehensive eye exam, the optometrist can learn a lot about the patient’s general health and lifestyle habits. It has been said that “the eyes are the windows to the soul.”

The eyes are also windows into one’s overall physical health. A comprehensive eye exam includes a look at the health of the entire eye from cornea to retina. A detailed look at the retina through either dilation or digital imaging exams can reveal underlying diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, infections, neurological disorders and even certain types of cancer. It is not uncommon for many of these diseases to initially present in the eyes.

In addition, at some offices, the doctor may be able to show a digital image of the back of the eye to the patient, so he can take an active part in the ongoing health of his eyes.

by Perrin Foerster, head coach
SouthWest Aquatics
www.southwestaquatics.com
407-905-0999

Those looking for a great after-school or summer activity for children should consider the sport of competitive swimming. When it comes to youth sports, few can offer the variety of physical training, mental challenges and opportunities to build lifelong goal-setting skills and strong relationships with teammates. Unlike many other sports, swimming is a low-injury, non-contact sport that builds endurance and aerobic fitness.

Opportunities for taking part in competitive swimming can be found from the
neighborhood swim leagues to international competitions. Florida is such a great state for swimming that Gregg Troy, head coach for the 2012 U.S. Olympic swim team, is a local resident.

This low-impact, high-intensity sport is a physical activity that offers lifetime benefits. Olympic gold medalist and Floridian Dara Torres is a perfect example of the benefits of swimming. At age 41, she made her fifth Olympic team in 2008. Few sports have the wide variety offered by competitive swimming.

Swimmers have the option of competing in any or all of the four different strokes and at various distances, ranging from 50 yards to one mile. Some athletes compete in open-water swims or combine their swimming skills with other high-endurance sports, such as triathlons.

submitted by Allergy & Asthma
Associates of Central Florida
www.aaacfonline.com
407-370-3705

Nasal allergy symptoms can be triggered by year-round indoor or seasonal outdoor allergens. Knowing which allergens cause a reaction can help an allergist create a plan for limiting a patient’s exposure and potential symptoms.

Indoor nasal allergy symptoms can persist year-round and are caused by allergens like mold, dust mites, cockroaches and animal dander. These allergens can be present in pillows and bedding, draperies, upholstery, thick carpeting, clothing, pets and in moist areas of the home like bathrooms and basements.

Outdoor nasal allergy symptoms are very common and usually caused by allergens that appear at specific times of the year, with some variation due to weather. In the spring, tree pollens are a common trigger. From late spring to summer, grasses enter the scene. Weed pollens, including ragweed, start becoming a problem for some people in the summer and peak in the fall. Finally, throughout the year in many states, outdoor mold spores are very common, and found in soil, some mulches, fallen leaves and rotting wood.
Allergists can provide year-round testing and treatment for patients to help alleviate symptoms.

by Keith Vevera, D.M.D.
Vevera Family Dentistry
www.veveradental.com
407-826-1234

Snoring is very common and, in most instances, relatively harmless. However, snoring can be extremely annoying and unattractive to loved ones.

Chronic and loud snoring may be signs of a more serious condition known as obstructive sleep apnea, affecting an estimated 11 percent of children, 24 percent of women, and 40 percent of men. Approximately one-half of noisy snorers have some form of sleep apnea, which may be hereditary. Individual changes in body weight; the use of alcohol, drugs or tobacco; and sleep hygiene may all be contributing factors relating to an increase in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by a partial or complete blockage of the airway passage from the nose or mouth to the lungs. This condition may increase a person’s risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, daytime sleepiness, diabetes, cognitive problems and obesity.

A dental sleep specialist can work as a team with a person’s primary-care physician to provide complete diagnosis, treatment and continual care of obstructive sleep apnea.

Oral appliances are comfortable, convenient and a noninvasive treatment for snoring and mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Oral appliances may be used alone or in combination with other treatments for sleep-related breathing disorders, including weight management, surgery or CPAP machines.

by Sara Acioli
Zero Gravity Fitness
www.zerogravityfitness.net
407-654-2600

In the fitness world, it is common to see the latest rage come and go in a matter of months, especially when it comes to athletic-conditioning trends.

One day it is hot, and the next it is not. That is, unless one is referring to Pilates.

Pilates originated in the 1920s, and it is still going strong today. What was one man’s vision has become an integral part of today’s athletic programs. With an increased awareness in mind/body training, Pilates has made its way into the realm of sport-specific training. Each year, more professional and junior athletes are seeking therapeutic exercise to prolong their careers and prevent injuries. Pilates focuses on core strength and muscular alignment in order to enhance power, flexibility and coordination. Utilizing specialized equipment, the athlete can challenge their neuromuscular connection and improve performance. Pilates first made it into the dance community, where it was used as a therapeutic tool to help counterbalance the rigors of the art form. It was not long before golfers and tennis players realized the benefits. In recent years, mainstream athletes have adopted Pilates as part of their fitness regimen. It is not surprising that many baseball, football and basketball players are Pilates enthusiasts.

by Mike Lewis, D.C.
Health 1st Wellness Center
www.health1stwellness.com
407-614-5900

Modern life makes it tough to stand tall. After all, as a population, people are increasingly computer-bound. Many endure long commutes to work and then spend the bulk of the day sitting at a desk. Upon returning home, people tend to sit more as they eat, read, relax or watch TV.

These long periods of sitting result in out-of-shape bodies with aches and pains that many do not know how to address. During a three-year follow-up study, new research suggested that people age 45 and older who sit eight hours a day are 15 percent more likely to die within that time period; additionally, the death rate of those who sit 11 hours a day increases to 40 percent.

Those who turn to coping strategies like pain pills and shoulder rubs to relieve pain should consider a visit to a chiropractor. Appearance, pain and posture are all intertwined — with posture being the focal point.

by Robert J. Kraut, M.D.
Florida Retina
& Vitreous Center, P.A.
www.floridaretinacenter.com
407-654-8000

Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that affects the central vision. Symptoms include blurriness, dark areas and distortion of one’s central vision. It is the leading cause of severe vision loss in individuals older than age 50.

Age, genetics, smoking and environmental free radicals are the major causes. The “dry” form, whereby deposits form in the macula and macular tissue deteriorates, affects 90 percent of individuals. This form is treated with vitamins, which reduce the risk of progression. Ten percent have the more severe “wet” form, where abnormal vessels grow, leak and bleed under the macula. This form is mostly treated with injections in the eye to stop the vessel growth.

by Sr. Master Von Schmeling
Victory Martial Arts
www.victoryma.com
877-797-7988

Everybody would like to feel healthy and energized, as well as live longer. Well, the simple habit of regularly exercising can offer these benefits, no matter a person’s age or physical ability.

The following three compelling reasons may help people make that decision to begin exercising today:

• Regular physical activity can help individuals prevent or manage a wide range of health problems and concerns, including stroke; obesity, along with all of its derived problems; metabolic syndrome; Type 2 diabetes; depression; cancer; arthritis; and the risk of falls.

• Regular exercise promotes proper resting, which is sure to elevate the quality of anyone’s life. Physical activity can help people fall asleep faster and deepen their sleep. The key is for people to exercise at the right time — not too close to their bedtimes — to avoid becoming too energized to fall asleep.

• Exercise will boost a person’s energy level and offer an emotional lift. Not only does it improve strength and endurance, but it stimulates various brain chemicals known as endorphins. Endorphins make a person feel happier and more relaxed.

When it comes to habitual exercising, the benefits are real.

by Kathleen Jones, D.N.P., A.R.N.P.
Windermere Pediatrics
www.windermerepediatrics.org
407-297-0080

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, in certain amounts, provide health benefits for individuals of all ages. They can be helpful in the treatment of acute infectious diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome and the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Probiotics are currently contained in several forms, including over-the-counter supplements, yogurt and infant formulas.

It is important for consumers to understand that all probiotic preparations are not created equally. Many of the other health benefits attributed to probiotics only occur after a certain amount is ingested. Many health benefits require a dose of probiotics of five to 10 billion colony-forming units. Two specific probiotics, Lactobacillus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii have been shown to be beneficial in the prevention of diarrhea associated with taking antibiotics.

Probiotics are generally safe. They should be avoided in premature infants and people who have a weakened immune system. Individuals should check with a health care provider for specific health problems or concerns before adding probiotics to a health regimen.

by Michael A. Hancharik, M.S.N., A.R.N.P.-C.
Southwest Orlando Family Medicine
www.swofm.com
407-352-9717

For most Americans, a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables provides most of the recommended daily allowance of vitamins. However, an increase of vitamins may help reduce the risk of certain diseases and some cancers. People older than age 65, women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, people who drink alcohol daily, and people without access to good nutrition may benefit from increased amounts of folic acid and vitamins B12, B6 and D. These beneficial vitamins are generally contained in a daily multivitamin supplement. Gender-specific multivitamins have altered levels of certain minerals, such as iron, and provide the appropriate levels for males and females, respectively.

Taking excessive vitamins can be potentially harmful. For example, ingesting high levels of vitamin A can lead to liver toxicity. Also, the body can only absorb a certain amount of some vitamins — such as vitamin B — and will simply excrete it with no increased health benefit.

Individuals should check with a health care provider to determine if taking a daily multiple vitamin would be beneficial.

More information about proper nutrition can be found at www.choosemyplate.gov on the Web.