Winter “Blues”
Posted on January 30, 2016 by bob in In Every Life
Alabama has experienced an unusual amount of cloudy days in the past several weeks. I was asked how this related to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). More pronounced than what some people call “winter blues,” SAD was first discussed in the 1980s and is now classified as a type of recurring depression. SAD is more prevalent […]
A Different Kind of Gift
Posted on December 1, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
We think of gift-giving at this holiday time. What are some of the most memorable gifts that you have received? What made those gifts memorable? Was it the thoughtfulness of the giver or the anticipation of how you would use the gift? Repeatedly in healthcare, I observe people who treasure the gifts received from family […]
Dementia Awareness With Helpful Links
Posted on November 3, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
November is Dementia Awareness Month. Dementia can be loosely translated as de=without and mentia=mind processes. Dementia is a slow, progressive loss of abilities of the mind. Dementia can be confused with delirium (a more sudden change from usual thinking ability), or with depression (a separate process affecting thinking ability). Individuals and/or their families may initially notice […]
Sleep Problems?
Posted on October 4, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
“Chronic insomnia lasts longer than three weeks, and can result in a cyclical fear of being unable to sleep, that then prevents sleep.” Each October we change our clocks as Daylight Savings Time ends. This can affect sleep patterns until an adjustment to the day/night (circadian rhythm) cycle is made. Although people have individual biorhythms […]
Flu Protection
Posted on August 31, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
“The challenge is to receive your vaccine in time to develop immunity, yet late enough for your immunity to last through the season.” The beginning of fall is a wonderful time of cooler temperatures and harvests, but also reminds us that it’s time for our flu vaccination. We may wonder if, when, and even what type […]
What’s on YOUR plate?
Posted on July 31, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
In recent months, pieces in this In Every Life section have focused on maintaining activity, hydration, and safe handling of fresh foods. A related issue is overall diet planning to assure adequate protein intake. Carbohydrates, fats, and protein comprise the three food types. Carbohydrates are obtained from fruits, vegetables, potatoes, corn, milk, breads, cereals, pasta, […]
Be Safe with Summer-fresh foods
Posted on July 2, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
Summer is a wonderful time of year in many ways. One reason is increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables. I recall visiting my grandparents as a child and helping them bring in fresh tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, okra, figs and grapes from their backyard garden. There may have been more, but these are the ones […]
Drink for your health
Posted on June 2, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
During the summer we are more mindful of water. Swimming, boating, and other water sports come to mind, as well as water shortages, both nationally and globally. Let’s also consider the effects of water shortages within our bodies. Last month’s column mentioned the need for water to replace fluid lost through increased exercise, and that […]
Be wise when you exercise.
Posted on April 30, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
Warmer weather can motivate going outdoors and increasing activity. Although healthcare provider approval for beginning exercise programs is recommended, individuals often do not consider increased activities that occur with change in seasons as beginning an exercise program. However, physical inactivity diminishes cardiovascular function in even healthy adults. Sudden changes from a more sedentary lifestyle during […]
Allergy Season!
Posted on April 1, 2015 by bob in In Every Life
After a cold and windy winter, spring seems a welcome relief — until the onset of seasonal allergies. Although many people experience reactions to food, medications, or other substances throughout the year, sensitivity to airborne pollens or molds can cause a seasonal allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucosa), increased watering of the eyes, sneezing […]
