FOR YOUR HEALTH: Six Ways a Simple Eye Exam Could Save Your Life

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Regular checkups by an ophthalmologist can help you see your way to good health.

(NAPSI)—It may come as a surprise to some, but an ophthalmologist can help you keep an eye on your overall health. In fact, an ophthalmologist—a physician who specializes in medical and surgical eye care—may be the first to detect if you’re at risk for a heart attack, stroke or other life-threatening conditions. That’s because subtle, early damage to tiny blood vessels in the eyes can provide important clues about what is happening in the small blood vessels of the brain and heart. 

  The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends all adults receive a comprehensive eye exam by age 40, and every year or two after age 65. 

 Surprising medical conditions that can be detected in a routine eye exam: 

 1.Cancer. This includes not only eye-related skin cancers on the eyelid or the surface of the eye, but also cancers in other parts of the body. Leukemia, lymphoma, and breast cancer can all be detected in the eye. 

 2.Diabetes. Diabetes is a leading cause of vision loss in the United States, but signs of diabetes can also appear in the eye before vision is affected. When a person with diabetes has high blood sugar levels, it can affect the blood vessels in the eye. That’s how an ophthalmologist might diagnose diabetes before other symptoms appear. 

 3.Heart disease. During a routine eye exam, ophthalmologists use a special imaging tool to examine the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. If the blood supply to the retina is reduced or blocked, this could be an early symptom of heart disease. 

 4.High blood pressure. One in three American adults has high blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease if left untreated. Unusually shaped blood vessels or bleeding in the back of the eye can signal high blood pressure. 

 5.High cholesterol. Another common health condition that can lead to serious health issues is high cholesterol. A yellow or blue ring around the cornea can be a symptom, as can deposits in the blood vessels of the retina. 

 6.Stroke. An ophthalmologist can also spot plaque deposits in the arteries of the eye. If these pieces of plaque reach the brain, they can cause a stroke. Several eye symptoms are linked to stroke, such as loss of side vision, sudden blind spots, blurry vision, double vision, or sensitivity to light. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. 

 Can’t Afford an Eye Exam? EyeCare America® Can Help. 

 Individuals age 65 or older who are concerned about their risk of eye disease and/or the cost of an eye exam, may be eligible for a medical eye exam, often at no out-of-pocket cost, through the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America® program. This public service program matches volunteer ophthalmologists with eligible patients in need of eye care across the United States. To see if you or a loved one qualifies, visit www.aao.org/eyecare-america to determine your eligibility.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Know the Signs of Stroke: Acting in Time Can Save a Life

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(NAPSI)—You work hard to help keep yourself and your loved ones healthy. To help, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) reminds everyone that stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. About 800,000 people in the country have a stroke each year. The good news is, when treated quickly, survival is possible and damage can be greatly reduced. That’s why understanding your risk for stroke, knowing signs of stroke, and acting in time are critical and can make all the difference for you or someone you care for. If you have a greater chance of stroke, there are also steps you can take now to help prevent one.  

What is Stroke?

There are two major types of stroke. One, called a hemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a brain blood vessel breaks and blood escapes into or around the brain. The other, called an ischemic stroke, or “brain attack,” occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. When this happens, brain cells stop getting the oxygen and nutrients they need.  

Risk Factors for Stroke

Anyone can have a stroke, but some people are at greater risk than others.

Conditions:

• Previous Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack

• High Blood Pressure

• High Cholesterol

• Heart Disease

• Diabetes

• Sickle Cell Disease

• Use Of Anti-Clotting Medications

• Certain Cancers

• Behaviors:

• Unhealthy Diet

• Physical Inactivity

• Obesity

• Excess Alcohol 

• Tobacco Use 

• Stimulant Drug Use

• Neck Injury

 • Individual Characteristics:

• Being over the age of 55

• More common in women than men 

• Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians, and Alaska Natives are at higher risk  

Signs of Stroke

The symptoms of stroke usually happen quickly and include one or more of the following: 

• Sudden NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

• Sudden CONFUSION, trouble speaking, or understanding speech

• Sudden TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes

• Sudden TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination

• Sudden SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause

Act in Time: Call 911 Right Away

Stroke is a medical emergency. If you believe you are having a stroke—or if you think someone you know is having a stroke—call 911 immediately. Do not wait for the symptoms to improve or worsen. Making the decision to call for medical help right away can save a life or mean avoiding a lifelong disability.

Ways to Help Prevent Stroke

You can help prevent stroke by making healthy choices and controlling any health problems you may have.

• Manage any health problems you may have, especially high blood pressure, but also diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity to lower your risk for stroke.

• Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Exercise regularly—about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. 

• Avoid drinking too much alcohol. 

• If you smoke, take steps to quit. If you’d like some help with quitting, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569) for free resources and support.

For more information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, visit stroke.nih.gov.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Maine’s Aging Population: Strategies for Healthy Aging and Improving Senior Care

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Maine, known for its iconic lighthouses, stunning coastlines, and rich history, is now becoming recognized for another reason: its aging population. As the oldest state by median age in the U.S., Maine faces unique challenges in supporting its senior residents. However, the state is also pioneering innovative strategies for healthy aging and improving senior care.

The demographic shift in Maine, like many other places, is due to the aging of the Baby Boomer generation. This demographic bulge, combined with the state’s rural character and a younger generation moving away for job opportunities, has created a significant senior population. This has brought issues of healthcare, accessibility, and social support to the forefront of public policy discussions.

For many seniors, healthy aging is closely tied to maintaining independence and high quality of life. To facilitate this, Maine has begun to invest heavily in “age-friendly” communities. These communities prioritize walkability, affordable and accessible housing, social engagement opportunities, and access to health and wellness services. By focusing on these areas, Maine is providing an environment that supports seniors in maintaining their independence for as long as possible.

Additionally, Maine has increased its focus on preventive healthcare. Regular screenings, physical activity, and healthy diet are integral to preventing many health problems associated with aging. The state is working to promote these habits among its senior population through educational campaigns and healthcare provider initiatives.

Telemedicine is another area where Maine is leading. In a state where rural locations can make access to healthcare challenging, telemedicine provides a critical link for seniors. It allows seniors to consult with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for potentially difficult travel.

Despite these efforts, there is still much work to be done. Many seniors in Maine struggle with social isolation, especially those in rural areas. To combat this, the state is exploring innovative solutions like senior community centers and initiatives encouraging intergenerational connection.

Furthermore, the state is working to improve its senior care facilities. A primary focus is on training and retaining high-quality staff. The state is providing incentives for individuals to enter and stay in the caregiving profession, a critical component in providing quality care to Maine’s senior population.

Maine’s approach to addressing its aging population is holistic, looking at the full range of seniors’ needs and potential solutions. From age-friendly communities to preventive healthcare, telemedicine, and improved senior care facilities, Maine is taking substantial steps to ensure its senior population can age healthily and maintain a high quality of life.

While Maine’s aging population presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity. By focusing on healthy aging and improving senior care, Maine can provide a model for other states facing similar demographic shifts. The lessons learned here will be invaluable as the U.S. grapples with its aging population in the years to come.

As Maine’s senior population continues to grow, the state’s innovative strategies will be tested. But the commitment to creating a supportive environment for seniors is clear. Maine’s seniors, like its lighthouses, are a symbol of resilience and strength, and the state’s efforts to support them are evidence of a commitment to their care.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Lyme Disease Prevention and Awareness in Maine: What You Need to Know

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As warmer months approach, the prevalence of ticks and the risk of contracting Lyme disease increase, especially in Maine. The state has consistently ranked high for Lyme disease cases, making it crucial for residents to be informed about prevention measures and early detection.

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. In recent years, the number of reported cases of Lyme disease in Maine has significantly increased. According to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), there were 2,079 confirmed cases in 2021, reflecting a steady rise in numbers over the past decade.

As climate change continues to affect Maine’s ecosystem, warmer temperatures and milder winters contribute to the expansion of tick populations. This, in turn, increases the risk of Lyme disease transmission. Maine residents need to be vigilant in their efforts to prevent tick bites and seek prompt treatment if bitten.

Prevention remains the best defense against Lyme disease. Experts recommend taking the following precautions during outdoor activities, particularly in wooded and grassy areas:

  • Use insect repellent: Apply repellents containing at least 20% DEET on exposed skin and clothing. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) website offers a tool to help select the right repellent for your needs.
  • Wear protective clothing: Opt for long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes when venturing into tick-prone areas. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.
  • Treat clothing and gear: Apply permethrin, an insecticide, to clothes, shoes, and camping gear for added protection.
  • Avoid tick habitats: Stay on well-trodden paths and avoid tall grasses and brushy areas where ticks are commonly found.
  • Perform tick checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks. Pay special attention to areas like the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, and the groin.

If you find a tick on your body, remove it as soon as possible using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick close to the skin’s surface and pull upward with steady, even pressure. After removal, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

Early detection and treatment of Lyme disease are vital to preventing severe complications. If you notice a tick bite, watch for symptoms like fever, chills, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and the characteristic “bull’s-eye” rash. These symptoms may appear anywhere from three to 30 days after the bite. If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect you’ve been bitten by a tick, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Maine has implemented various programs to educate the public about Lyme disease prevention and control. The Maine CDC offers a “Tick Identification Program,” where residents can submit ticks for identification and testing. This helps track tick populations and the prevalence of Lyme disease in the state.

Furthermore, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides resources and conducts tick workshops for residents to learn more about tick identification, habitat management, and personal protection.

Public awareness and preventative measures are essential to curbing the rise in Lyme disease cases in Maine. As tick populations grow, residents must take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from the risks posed by these tiny yet dangerous creatures.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Jump Start Your Spring with Tips for a Healthy Household

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(NAPSI)—As the days get longer and the temperatures warm up, spring is the perfect time to take stock of your household and your health. This season is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, offering the opportunity to make some simple moves to improve your overall well-being.

 To make the most out of a spring refresh, we’ve rounded up some of our top cleaning and health and wellness tips:

 •Clean high-touch surfaces. Cleaning surfaces in your home helps prevent the spread of germs that can make you sick, including COVID-19 and other viruses. High-touch surfaces, such as light switches, doorknobs, and countertops, should be cleaned regularly, especially after having visitors over. Make sure to use household cleaners that contain soap or detergent to ensure you are removing germs that could cause illness. 

•Wipe down your electronics. Many of us might remember to disinfect our phones, but it’s easy to forget that remote controls, keyboards, tablets, and other electronics all need a good scrub to keep germs at bay. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for cleaning.

•Break projects into small chunks. You don’t have to tackle your house from floor to ceiling to make progress on your healthy household plans. Rather, pick one 10-minute task to complete each day, such as wiping down counters, starting a load of laundry, or vacuuming the blinds. Smaller tasks can seem more manageable and will get your refresh kickstarted. 

•Improve the ventilation in your home. Spring is a great time to check your air filters, making sure they are installed properly and replacing them as necessary. Doing so reduces air pollutants and virus particles in your home, helping to stop the spread of disease. In addition, you could consider adding a portable air cleaner to improve ventilation and reduce the number of germs in the air that people exhale when breathing, talking, singing, coughing, and sneezing.

•Restock your medicine cabinet. Take some time to check the expiration dates on your medications and then purchase new items that you might need, like nasal sprays, allergy medications, and first aid materials. It’s also a good idea to have extra COVID home testing kits on hand as well. With insurance or flexible spending accounts covering many health products, including at-home COVID testing kits, now is the time to stock up. 

•Make sure you are up to date on your COVID vaccine. No one wants to get sidelined with COVID this spring, so consider getting the latest vaccine to keep your household healthy. Updated COVID vaccines are now recommended for children and adults if their last dose was before September 2022. 

 “As spring hits its full stride, it’s a great time to make sure you are prioritizing your health and well-being,” said Dr. Sonia Valdez, Chief Nursing Officer for National Healthcare and Housing Advisors. “One important way to do that is by making sure you’ve gotten a free, updated COVID vaccine, which can boost your immune system even if you’ve had COVID already.”

For more information about COVID vaccines and to find a vaccine near you, go to vaccines.gov or text your ZIP code to 438829.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Embracing the Great Outdoors: Boosting Heart Health in Maine

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With heart disease remaining a leading cause of death in the United States, more Americans are seeking ways to promote cardiovascular health. Amidst the picturesque landscapes of the northeastern state of Maine, residents and visitors alike are discovering the benefits of outdoor activities for maintaining a healthy heart. From hiking to swimming, the state offers various ways to engage in exercise and leisure activities that contribute to overall well-being.

Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke, account for nearly one in every four deaths in the U.S. each year. While genetic predisposition and age are factors that cannot be changed, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in preventing or mitigating heart-related health concerns. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall quality of life.

Maine, with its diverse terrain and pristine natural beauty, offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in heart-healthy activities. In central Maine, the state’s rugged interior invites hikers to explore miles of scenic trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks. For example, the Kennebec Highlands, a vast conservation area spanning over 6,800 acres of protected land, offers trails that cater to various skill levels. Hiking not only provides cardiovascular benefits but also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, according to the AHA.

Another popular outdoor activity in the region is swimming, which offers a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens the heart and lungs. In Maine, one prime destination for water-based activities is China Lake, a sprawling 3,922-acre body of water located near the towns of China and Vassalboro, consisting of the East Basin and the West Basin. Here, visitors can swim, boat, or paddleboard, enjoying the refreshing waters while simultaneously improving their cardiovascular health. After a day of recreation, The Landing, a local restaurant situated on the north end of the lake, offers a delightful spot to refuel and enjoy a meal with a beautiful view of the lake.

For those who prefer leisurely activities that still promote heart health, Maine’s countryside also offers ample opportunities for birdwatching, photography, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the state’s picturesque coastline, mountains, and forests. Even moderate activities, such as brisk walking or gentle cycling, can contribute to a healthier heart when done consistently.

The benefits of spending time in nature extend beyond physical health. Research suggests that exposure to natural environments can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, further contributing to a healthier heart. By immersing oneself in Maine’s great outdoors, individuals can nurture both their physical and mental well-being, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

As the northeastern state of Maine continues to draw outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes and wide array of activities, residents and visitors can take advantage of these natural resources to promote heart health. Through regular engagement in activities such as hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the beauty of the region, individuals can make strides in preventing or mitigating common heart health concerns and lead a more fulfilling life.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Dealing with springtime allergies in Maine

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As the winter snow melts and the sun starts to shine, people in the Northeast United States look forward to the arrival of spring. However, for many, springtime also brings along the onset of seasonal allergies. This is especially true in Maine, where the blooming of flowers and trees can cause a range of allergic reactions.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Maine ranks as the 26th most challenging state to live in for people with allergies. Common allergens in Maine during the spring season include pollen from trees like oak, birch, and maple, as well as grass pollen.

The symptoms of spring allergies can vary from person to person but can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and even skin rashes. These symptoms can be particularly bothersome for people who suffer from asthma, as allergies can exacerbate their breathing difficulties.

Fortunately, there are several remedies and precautions that people can take to minimize the impact of spring allergies. One of the most effective ways to prevent allergies is to avoid exposure to allergens. This can be achieved by staying indoors during peak pollen hours, which are typically in the morning and early evening. It’s also a good idea to keep windows closed and to use an air purifier to filter out pollen and other allergens.

For people who do venture outside during allergy season, wearing a mask can help reduce pollen exposure. Additionally, washing clothes and hair after being outside can also help reduce the amount of pollen that accumulates on the body.

Another effective way to manage allergies is through the use of over-the-counter medications. Antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Decongestants can help reduce nasal congestion, and nasal corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

In some cases, allergy shots may be recommended by a doctor. These shots contain a small amount of the allergen, which is gradually increased over time, helping the body build up immunity to the allergen.

It’s also important for people with allergies to maintain good overall health, as allergies can weaken the immune system. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.

In summary, spring allergies can be a significant challenge for many people in Maine, but there are several effective ways to manage symptoms and minimize the impact of allergens. These include avoiding exposure to allergens, wearing a mask, using medications, and maintaining good overall health. By taking these steps, people can enjoy the beauty of spring without being bogged down by allergies.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: How To Live A Healthy Life In The Modern Age

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What if you could transform your life today and start feeling better tomorrow? What if it wasn’t that big of a deal to do so? And what if you didn’t need to spend a fortune to get there either? You know what would also be nice? If you could transform not just your physical appearance, but also the way you think about yourself and your life. This can seem like an overwhelming commitment at first, but once you break it down and think about it as a holistic process rather than a giant leap, it seems much more achievable. After all, we’re talking about 5 minutes per day. That’s all it takes!

Exercise daily

Exercise is the ultimate way to increase your metabolic rate and burn fat while improving your health and well-being. Whether you choose to go to the gym, run around the block, or climb a tree, the most important thing is to do something. The best part is that even if you aren’t that great at it, doing something will give you a sense of accomplishment and increase your confidence. There’s really no excuse for not being active. All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes and about 30 minutes a day. There are so many benefits to being active, including: Better Sex Increased Energy Improved Mood Improved Mental Health Lower Risk of Heart Disease Increased Immunity Greater Sex Drive Stronger Bones Stronger Muscles
Eat healthy

Eating healthy is crucial for boosting your metabolism, building strong bones and teeth, and preventing heart disease and many cancers. It’s also essential for maintaining a healthy weight, and for keeping your energy levels up, too. It can be difficult to know what to eat, especially when you’re throwing yourself a party. This is why it’s important to have a healthy diet that consists of a variety of fresh produce, wholegrains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. You should also limit your intake of sugary drinks, processed foods, saturated fats, salt, and sugary snacks.

Learn something new

If you think about it, we’re all in this thing called life for a reason: to learn, grow, and experience new things. There’s no way you’re going to be able to do that if you’re constantly worried about money and your bills. The best way to learn new things and expand your knowledge is by getting inspired by other people and what they’ve achieved. You can watch documentaries, read blogs, attend seminars, or simply listen to what other people have to say. The more you do this, the more you’ll realize how much you don’t know and how much there is still to learn. This will boost your confidence, give you the ability to understand new concepts, and make you feel more optimistic about the future.

Sleep better

Sleep is essential for regulating hormones and building memory. Not sleeping well can lead to poor diet, fatigue, and a lack of confidence. While it can be difficult to change the number of hours you sleep, it’s much easier to adjust the amount of sleep you get. Try and keep a regular sleep schedule so that your body is conditioned to expect the amount of sleep it needs. Make sure you have a regular time to relax and take care of yourself, like when you’re sick or when you’re just out of the blue feeling down.

Connect with people

The modern world is incredibly isolating, which isn’t great for your mental health or your relationships. You don’t have to put yourself out there in a big way either. Just make sure you’re grabbing coffee with a friend every now and then, sending a quick text message, or saying hi to someone on the street. Doing this will not only boost your social confidence, but it’ll help you get to know the people around you better. It’s always good to have a few people in your life that you can connect with, whether it’s a close friend, family member, or even a stranger.

Take a deep breath and relax

Life is happening really quickly. You have to make decisions quickly and try to find time for everything. It can be really easy to get hurried, anxious, or stressed out. This is never going to get you anywhere so try to put the brakes on it. Take a few deep breaths, try and identify what’s stressing you, and try to work out a way to deal with it. Then, when you’re feeling rushed and short of time, you can use that plan to help you to calm down. This doesn’t mean you have to let everything get to you. It just means that you have to let yourself have a little more control and that you don’t have to be rushed all the time.

Stay positive

Finally, it’s important to remember that you’re not going to get anywhere if you’re not having fun. If you’re feeling down, try and find the funny side of things and try to look at it from a different perspective. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take things seriously and work hard, but try and find a happy medium. It can be really easy to get trapped in a negative spiral where you’re constantly worrying about the things that are stressing you out. You have to find a way to anchor yourself and stop that spiral from continuing. There are many ways you can do this, like writing them down, visualizing them, or talking to a friend or family member. There are many different ways you can anchor yourself and stop the negative spiral from continuing. This will help you to stay positive, optimistic, and relaxed while you’re navigating life’s challenges.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Supplement Your Dental Care Routine

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You can help keep your smile shining, even when your diet isn’t adequate, by taking vitamin and mineral supplements as you need them.

(NAPSI)—Brushing and flossing are the main tricks of the trade for maintaining a healthy smile, but if you want to expand your dental health from the inside out, you may want to consider nutritional supplements. 

“Most people can obtain all the necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet, but for some, supplements can be helpful as nutrition deficiencies can lead to conditions such as inflammation and tooth loss if left untreated for too long,” said Kiran Malhi, DMD, a dental consultant for Delta Dental of Washington. 

Six Suggestions For A Stronger Smile

In tandem with brushing, flossing and consistent trips to the dentist, these six supplements can jump start an even healthier smile:

Calcium: Calcium helps more than just your bones—it can help your teeth too. While calcium is found in dairy products, fish, vegetables and nuts, you can also take calcium as a supplement if you have roadblocks to accessing calcium-rich foods. 

Phosphorus: Phosphorus aids in calcium absorption into the body, helping to strengthen teeth by protecting and rebuilding tooth enamel. Many people get enough phosphorus in their diets through meat, fish, milk and whole grains, but it is available in supplement form for those with dietary restrictions.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A helps in saliva production, which is beneficial to your overall oral health. Saliva functions in breaking down foods and cleans bacteria between teeth. The vitamin is found in orange-colored fruits and vegetables, fish and eggs. Vitamin A tablets and gummies are widely available and also keep eyes and skin healthy. 

Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps your gums as well as your teeth, keeping connective tissues in the gums strong to hold teeth in place while deficiencies in vitamin C can be the cause of bleeding gums and gum disease. Chewable or liquid forms of vitamin C are erosive, however, and can cause the loss of enamel if taken in excess, though they’re safe at the recommended dosage. Vitamin C is present in many fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D protects against oral health conditions such as gingival inflammation, cavities and gum disease, as it plays a significant role in tooth mineralization. Like calcium, vitamin D can be found in fish or vitamin D-fortified foods like milk and cereal, but for convenience, it is available in supplement form. 

Zinc: Zinc can eliminate cavity-causing bacteria and control demineralization. The vitamin can also help with gum diseases such as gingivitis and other common periodontal problems. A bonus is that zinc helps fight bad breath. 

Learn More

For additional information about how to get and maintain a healthy smile, visit www.deltadentalwa.com/blog.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – One A Day: Small Daily Acts of Self-Care

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(NAPSI)—The winter holidays have ended, and spring is in sight. As the days start to lengthen, it is a good time to tend to your overall health and well-being, including your mental health, by practicing daily acts of self-care.

Mental health and physical health are closely related. Our emotional, psychological, and social well-being affect how we think, feel, and act. Caring for all parts of ourselves helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Making small healthy choices each day can build habits and make a difference as we move out of winter and into spring. Here are some self-care activities you can fit into your daily routine:

• Take breaks to unwind through yoga, music, gardening, or new hobbies. Try new things and make the ones that make you feel good a regular part of your week.

• Find ways to connect with family and friends, get support, and share your feelings. Staying in touch with friends and family online or with a phone call or chatting with a neighbor outside can help you connect and keep you from feeling isolated.

• Make physical activity part of your daily life. Tending to your health through physical activity doesn’t require a gym membership. Dancing, taking a walk, or even working in your yard or cleaning house can improve your mood and your overall health. 

• Treat yourself to healthy foods. Splurge when you can on fresh fruits and vegetables. Finding a vegetable that you’ve never had before at a farmer’s market or a grocery that carries foods from another culture and learning how to prepare it can be a fun way to include more fresh food in your diet.

• Make sure you are up to date on vaccines, especially COVID-19 vaccines. Updated COVID vaccines can restore protection that may have waned over time and keep you healthy to participate in activities you enjoy.  

“Staying current on COVID vaccines is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can give people extra peace of mind about their health,” said Dr. Jaime Fergie, director of infectious diseases at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. “Getting vaccinated provides added protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID, and helps reduce the risk of getting long COVID too.”  

Move into spring, a time of renewal, with a renewed commitment to healthy habits and actions.

For more information about COVID vaccines and to find a vaccine near you, visit vaccines.gov.