Electronic Cigarettes – are they safe ?

e cigs 465449923Electronic cigarettes, or as they are more popularly called, e-cigarettes, are designed to look like traditional tobacco cigarettes. Though the e-cigarettes contain no tobacco, they can be harmful because they contain nicotine which is a cancer causing chemical. Their manufacturers would like the public to believe that they are a safer alternative to cigarettes, but this may not be the case.

How they work – The user inhales through a mouthpiece similar to traditional cigarettes. This flow of air triggers a sensor that turns on a small battery operated heater. The heater warms up a capsule that contains nicotine and propylene glycol. The vapor that is created gives the user the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. The vapor from these e-cigarettes also contains formaldehyde and acetaldehyde which can also cause cancer.

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration has done a preliminary analysis of these devices and concluded that the vapors that they emit contain other carcinogens, such as  nitrosamines and diethylene glycol. It is presumed that the effects of smoking these e-cigarettes would have similar second hand effects as regular tobacco products and their use should be regulated in a similar manner.

Though they have been marketed as an aid to stop smoking for those trying to quit, there is no evidence that proves that these e-cigarettes accomplish that goal. If you smoke, or know someone who does, and are interested in quitting we recommend speaking with your physician or joining a smoking cessation program such as Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Freedom from Smoking Program. A representative can be reached at 718 206 8494. Additional resources can also be found at www.nysmokefree.com.

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Does Aloe Vera Really Help Ease the Pain of Sunburn?

 

Memorial Day weekend marks the start of the summer season, and for some, their first sunburn.

After a long, cold winter everyone is excited to spend some time outside. Unfortunately, some people underestimate the power of the sun’s rays this early in the season and your skin can burn easily without proper protection from sunscreen and clothes.  If you do get sunburn, will using aloe vera really help to soothe skin and ease discomfort?ThinkstockPhotos-487298313

A natural remedy and popular home treatment for all kinds of mild skin burns, studies show that using aloe vera can help moisturize the skin and aid healing. Aloe vera gel or juice is antibacterial and has soothing qualities that will help you avoid the peeling normally associated with sun damage.

Try a store bought aloe vera gel, or go directly to the source and use juice from the leaves of an aloe vera plant. Refrigerate the leaves, peel them open and directly place the gel or juicy part onto the burn. You can gently squeeze the leaves to get the juice out. While you can place the juice directly onto the sunburn, it may sting a little since aloe vera juice is an astringent.  Try mixing the aloe vera juice with a little moisturizing Vitamin E and dab it onto the sunburn.

Aloe shouldn’t be used on severe burns, so check with your doctor if you’re worried your sunburn may be severe. Your best protection against sunburn is using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 or greater year-round for all skin types. If you are fair-skinned and sunburn easily, you may want to select a sunscreen with a higher SPF to provide additional protection.

For questions about your sunburn, or to learn how to better protect your skin from the sun, speak with a dermatologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s  Ambulatory Care Center by calling 718-670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Spice it up! Will Adding Cayenne Pepper to Your Diet Help With Weight Loss?

 

ThinkstockPhotos-185904787Heralded as a way to increase metabolism and maybe even help you lose weight, it seems like cayenne pepper is being added to everything , from juice drinks to over- the -counter supplements, but does it really work?

The red cayenne pepper is a cultivar of Capsicum annuum related to bell peppers, jalapeños, and paprika. Recent studies suggest that red cayenne pepper, when combined with other weight loss efforts, may help burn calories and curb appetite, especially in people who aren’t used to eating it.

The study found that about half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper either mixed in food or swallowed in a capsule helped normal-weight young adults burn about 10 more calories over a four-hour period, compared to eating the same meal but without the red pepper.

Pepper was also found to decrease appetite, especially in people who said they didn’t already eat spicy foods. However, it seems that once a person gets used to the spicy foods, the effects start to wear off.

Incorporating red pepper into your diet works more toward moderation of energy intake and energy balance, but the real bottom line? If you like spicy food, try it, but it’s not going to make you a size 2.

For more health and lifestyle tips, follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC and like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FlushingHospital

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Is Prenatal Yoga Right For You?

 

Keeping active while pregnant is good for you and for your baby.  Research suggests that practicing prenatal yoga offers many benefits, including helping you relax and prepare for labor.

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Many childbirth-preparation classes encourage stretching, mental centering and focused breathing. Taking prenatal yoga classes in a yoga studio or using an exercise DVD can:

.Improve sleep and balance

.Reduce stress and anxiety by calming the nervous system

.Increase strength, stamina, flexibility and endurance needed for childbirth

.Ease lower back pain, nausea, headaches and shortness of breath

.Decrease the risk of preterm labor, pregnancy-induced hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction

. Helps with breathwork in preparation for labor

. Increase circulation

Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.  Listen to your body and do what feels right for you. Prenatal yoga can be a great way to prepare for childbirth. Namaste!

For more health and lifestyle tips, follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC and like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FlushingHospital 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

The Natural Solution to Spring Cleaning

 

Spring is finally here, and springtime means spring cleaning! If you’re looking for an alternative to store bought cleaners, check out these low-cost, non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaning solutions for a fresh smelling home:

ThinkstockPhotos-467249269.Baking Soda – cleans, softens water, and scours. You can also use baking soda to deodorize food storage containers and sprinkle on your carpet to absorb smells before vacuuming.

.White Vinegar – cuts grease, removes mildew, odors, some stains and wax build-up. Use equal parts white vinegar and water to wash both the interior and exterior of your fridge.

.Lemons  – effective against most household bacteria. Use lemon peels in your garbage disposal to help deodorize it.

You can also try these combinations:

.All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/4 cup baking soda into 1/2 gallon (2 liters) water. Store and keep. Use for removal of water deposit stains on shower stall panels, bathroom chrome fixtures, windows, and bathroom mirrors.

.Mold and Mildew cleaner: Use white vinegar or lemon juice full strength. Apply with a sponge or scrubby.

.Window Cleaner: Mix 2 teaspoons of white vinegar with 1 liter warm water. Use crumpled newspaper or cotton cloth to clean. Only use the black and white newspapers, not the colored ones. Don’t clean windows if the sun is on them, or if they are warm, or streaks will show on drying.

.Furniture Polish: For varnished wood, add a few drops of lemon oil into a 1/2 cup warm water. Mix well and spray onto a soft, slightly damp, cotton cloth.  Wipe furniture with the cloth, and finish by wiping once more using a dry soft cotton cloth.

One more tip: Whenever you clean your home, save the floor or carpet for last. Clean window blinds and shelves first and then work downwards.  This allows time for the dust to settle before vacuuming.

For more lifestyle and health tips, follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/flushinghospital

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Five Foods to Prevent Osteoporosis

ThinkstockPhotos-451969173Osteoporosis can strike at any age and occurs in both men and women, but it is most common in post-menopausal women. Bone is living tissue that constantly regenerates. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle making you more susceptible to fractures. The most common fractures occur in the hip, wrist or spine.

Medications, healthy diet and weight-bearing exercise can help prevent bone loss or strengthen already weak bones.

May is National Osteoporosis Month. If you suffer from osteoporosis, try adding foods that are good for your bones and rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamins D, C, and K, as well as potassium and magnesium.

.Dairy products — Low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt and cheese that contain calcium and are fortified with vitamin D, as well as fatty fishes like canned sardines, salmon (with bones), mackerel and tuna.

.Potassium — Spinach, beet greens, okra, tomato products, artichokes, plantains, potatoes, sweet potatoes, collard greens and raisins.

.Magnesium — Tomato products, raisins, potatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, papaya, oranges, orange juice, bananas, plantains and prunes.

.Vitamin C — Red peppers, green peppers, oranges, grapefruits, broccoli, strawberries, Brussels sprout, papaya and pineapples.

.Vitamin K — Vegetables such as kale, mustard greens, turnip greens and Brussels sprout, okra, Chinese cabbage, dandelion greens, and broccoli.

If you think you have osteoporosis, make an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling 718-670-5486.

For more health and lifestyle tips, follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FlushingHospital.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Getting Fit and Bicycle Riding Safety Tips

160689896 woman on bike

Riding a bicycle can be a fun and effective way to get fit.  Cycling is beneficial for the cardiovascular system because it increases oxygen intake and stimulates the heart. Studies show that riding can increase energy levels by 20 percent and in one hour burn up to 488 calories when pedaling at 12 to 14 miles per hour.

Although a bicycle is an excellent fitness tool, it is also considered a vehicle.  Therefore, the rules of the road must be obeyed and a bicycle should be operated safely to prevent injuries and accidents.

Follow these basic riding tips to ensure your safety and reduce the risks:

  • Always ride in the same direction as traffic and do not weave in between other vehicles.
  • Obey traffic laws and signals.
  • Do not listen to music or speak on cell phones while riding.
  • Wear a proper fitting helmet.
  • Never pass another vehicle on the right.
  • Always keep your hands on the brakes.
  • Stay aware of dangerous road hazards such as potholes and broken glass.
  • Use hand signals to show motorist where you are going.

Bicycling is a great way to get fit; however, cyclists should continue to keep in mind that they share the same rules and regulations as others. Follow the rules of the road to reduce the risk of injuries and accidents.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

What is an Allergic Reaction?

Your own asthma allergyimmune system is what really causes allergic reactions.  Grass and tree pollen’s, ragweed, dust- it mistakes these harmless allergens for a serious threat and attacks them. The sneezing, watery eyes or coughing are the result of your body mistakenly attacking itself.It begins with exposure to the allergen. Even if you’ve inhaled an allergen many times before with no trouble, at some point, the body flags it as an invader. The immune system studies the allergen and readies itself for the next exposure by developing antibodies; you are now “sensitized” to the allergen.

May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness month. If you are having trouble finding relief from allergies, contact Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center to set an appointment with one of our physicians at 718-670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Mother’s Day Delight: Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Why not give Mom a break this Mother’s Day and make her some delicious, healthy and low calorie Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps? Recipe courtesy of Weight Watchers.

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  • 1 tsp canola oil   
  •   3 medium uncooked scallion(s), thinly sliced   
  •   1 medium yellow pepper(s), seeded and diced   
  • 1/2 tsp ginger root, fresh, peeled and grated   
  •   1 pound(s) uncooked ground turkey breast, lean   
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder   
  • 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce   
  •   8 leaf/leaves (large) lettuce, Iceberg variety   

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the scallions, bell pepper, and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, about 1 minute.
  • Add the turkey and chili powder; cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce.
  • Divide the turkey mixture evenly among the lettuce leaves; roll up tightly and serve at once. Yields 2 wraps per serving.

Notes

  • We think ground turkey, with its rich flavor, is best suited to this dish, but you can use ground skinless lean chicken breast, if you prefer. For a heartier meal, try using 2 (10-inch) flour tortillas for the wrappers instead of the 4 lettuce leaves, making half a tortilla per serving and increasing your PointsPlus value by 2.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Are you at Risk for Stroke?

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. A stroke or a CVA (cerebrovascular accident) is an attack on the brain that can occur very quickly and with little warning.  Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke and one death from stroke happens every four minutes, making it the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S.

stroke_infographic_webThe risk of having a stroke varies with race and ethnicity. Though stroke risk increases with age, strokes can occur at any time. Prevent or reduce your risk of stroke by:

. Keeping your blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels in normal range

. Quitting smoking

. Staying active and maintaining a healthy diet and weight

. Treating heart disease

You may be having a stroke if you experience:

. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

. Trouble seeing out of one or both eyes

. Confusion or trouble speaking

. Dizziness or trouble walking

. Numbness or weakness in the arm, face or legs, especially on one side of the body

If you suspect you or someone you know is having a stroke, act F.A.S.T:

F   Facial Weakness

A  Arm Weakness

  Slurred speech

  Time to call 911

Remember, the quicker you get medical help, the less damage to your brain and body and the better your chances are of surviving or avoiding long-term disability.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.