The Truth About E-Cigarettes

2014May30_GenPharma_AWe all know that smoking tobacco cigarettes is bad for your health. It can lead to throat cancer, lung cancer and respiratory infection, among other things. But what about the electronic version?

The e-cigarette craze has taken off in the past few years, as an increasing number of Americans attempt to find alternatives to their traditional cigarette. When e-cigarettes first came to the U.S. market around 2008, they were highly lauded as a healthier and safer option for smokers, but an increasing number of health experts are raising questions about the side effects and risks.

The hot debate about the safety of e-cigarettes has divided experts across the world. Meanwhile, an increasing number of people are using e-cigarettes to smoke indoors at restaurants and bars across the United States. Before you pick up an e-cigarette or sit across from a friend that’s using one, make sure you know the facts.

Here are 8 things you need to know about electronic cigarettes.

#1: The basic differences.

E-cigarettes resemble tobacco cigarettes, but they don’t need to be lit with a match and they do not emit any odor. They are battery-powered, with a vaporization chamber and a cartridge filled with nicotine liquid. Puffing on an e-cigarette heats up the liquid and changes it to vapor, which quickly disappears when it hits the air. That’s why the practice of smoking an e-cigarette is often called vaping.

Although e-cigarettes are offered in various flavors such as strawberry, caramel, bubble gum and ice cream flavors, they are not any more suitable for young people than traditional tobacco cigarettes. In fact, they are off limits to those under 18 years of age and the government is cracking down on the enforcement of age restrictions.

#2: Safety concerns and unknown risks.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health experts have expressed concerns about side effects for e-cigarette smokers, as well as people around them. Other concerns include the lack of quality control and the fact that they’re addictive.

With traditional tobacco cigarettes, risks to those around are known, but electronic cigarettes have yet to be thoroughly studied. The long-term risks and effects of secondhand smoke are still unknown. In some countries such as Mexico, Australia, Canada and Israel, e-cigarettes have been banned. In major U.S. cities including New York and Chicago, a ban has been placed on e-cigarette smoking in public places where regular cigarettes are not allowed.

#3: The difference in cost.

E-cigarettes come with different price tags depending on the brand, style and model. Complete starter kits with several cartridges are available for about $60 to $150. There is the option of buying the liquid in bulk and refilling cartridges at home but e-cigarettes are still expensive.

The cost rises even higher when you consider that e-cigarettes require maintenance. The battery must be regularly charged and replaced from time to time depending on the quality of the battery and the device. The liquid also needs to be topped off frequently. On average, the price of one cartridge is typically equal to a pack of tobacco cigarettes.

We take the health of our patients and community very seriously. If you would like to quit smoking and need help, we may be able to provide helpful advice. If you have questions about e-cigarettes, please don’t hesitate to ask. Visit [company_short] to speak with a pharmacy staff member today. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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Ease Anxiety and Depression with Meditation

2014May15_GenPharma_AWhen the symptoms of anxiety and depression are left untreated, they can lead to deterioration of relationships and subsequently, collapse in quality of life. Although many prescription drugs and therapies exist to treat anxiety and depression, many people prefer meditation over medication.

Believe it or not, the results of a study conducted by the Division of General Internal Medicine at John Hopkins University School of Medicine suggests that meditation relieves some symptoms of anxiety and depression on a level similar to antidepressant medications. Depending on the severity of the symptoms you are experiencing, meditation may be a good first attempt at alleviating some stress and anxiety in your life.

What is meditation?

Meditation refers to a set of techniques that brings about a deep state of mind and body relaxation. It has been around for thousands of years already and continues to grow in popularity due to the increasing number of daily stressors in our everyday lives. During meditation, the flow of negative thoughts is halted in order to create space for relaxation. It is said that meditation heals the body and mind in a complementary manner.

How can meditation ease anxiety and depression symptoms?

Anxiety and depression can be caused by various situations such as loss of a job, a traumatic accident or failure to achieve goals. While life’s ups and downs are inevitable, the most important thing is your willingness to recover. Meditation has a high level of effectiveness when performed on a regular basis. It is cost-effective and has no negative side effects.

Here’s a snapshot of what you may experience after meditating on a regular basis:

  • Release of negative thoughts that can act as stressors

  • New focus on solutions rather than problems

  • A more relaxed body

  • The ability to identify the root cause of your anxiety or depression

  • A fresh, new perspective

Meditation may refer to any mind and body relaxation technique. There are various types of meditation and you are free to choose which one works best for you.

Here are 6 popular types of meditation.

  1. Guided meditation: You will be asked to visualize a soothing image or situation with the guidance of a professional or an instructor.

  2. Mantra meditation: You will utter a word or phrase that is calming or motivating to block destructive thoughts.

  3. Qi-gong: Considered a part of Chinese traditional medicine, Qi-gong merges breathing exercises, silent meditation and physical movements to regain and uphold balance.

  4. Tai Chi: It is a combination of deep breathing and slow, graceful movements.

  5. Transcendental meditation: You will recite a certain mantra to promote focus, consciousness and tranquility.

  6. Yoga: You will practice a combination of breathing exercises and postures that promote balance, concentration and flexibility.

Is meditation for everyone?

Daily meditation can be helpful for anyone. If you’re feeling stressed, a meditation session may be just what you need. But for those who have been diagnosed with anxiety or depression, meditation may not be able to replace the medications your doctor has prescribed for you. For best results, begin by combining meditation with your usual medications and natural supplements. And don’t hesitate to speak with your pharmacist at [company_short] or by calling [phone_main] for personalized recommendations.

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May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month

2014May13_GenPharma_AThere is a reason why the National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month is celebrated in the United States in May. According to the estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in two people over 50 in the United States will have higher chances of suffering from fractures because of osteoporosis by the year 2020. As baby boomers hit retirement, especially women, raising awareness for osteoporosis and prevent methods has become more important than ever.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

The bones in your body are living tissue and are constantly undergoing changes. If you are young, your bones will be stronger and denser. However, once you reach 35, the bone building process in your body slows down and is unable to compensate for the bone loss. If you have strong bone mass, the slow loss of minerals from your bones will not be a major concern. On the other hand, if your bone mass is low, your bones will fracture very easily. If this happens, you will be diagnosed with osteoporosis.

 There are no symptoms of this condition and it is usually painless. The condition is diagnosed when you experience a fracture. Other signs of osteoporosis are visible curvature of the spine and decrease in height due to bone loss in the spine.

 If you are at risk of developing this condition, professionals suggest a bone mineral density test. This allows early diagnosis of the condition and subsequent steps can be taken to slow down the progress of bone loss.

There are many risk factors for the development of osteoporosis. They include:

  • Low estrogen levels, especially in postmenopausal women

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Aging

  • Family prevalence

  • Vitamin D and/or calcium deficiency

  • Tobacco use

  • Alcohol abuse

  • Excess abdominal fat

  • Being underweight

  • Certain diseases, including thyroid disorder, diabetes and liver disease

  • Taking certain medications that cause bone loss

 Prevention

The good news is, osteoporosis can be prevented. Here are 5 steps you can take to prevent bone loss.

  • Consume Calcium: Make sure your diet includes adequate amounts of calcium. A diet rich in dark leafy veggies, sesame seeds, dairy products, soy flour and tofu is a wonderful tool. Look for foods, such as cereals and orange juice, that are fortified with calcium and Vitamin D. You also can take calcium supplements, which you can pick up from your community pharmacy.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: If you are underweight, your risk factor is higher. Your risk is also higher if you have too much abdominal fat. Maintain a healthy weight by eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly.

  • Be Physically Active: When you do the right exercise, it strengthens your muscles, which protect your bones. Exercise also promotes growth of bones. Speak to your doctor and develop an exercise program that is right for your age and health. Exercises, such as light weight-bearing exercises, jogging, swimming and aerobics, are considered great for preventing bone loss.

  • Take Medications: If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your healthcare provider will put you on medication that will slow the progress of bone loss. You can get these medications from your community pharmacy and take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Quit Tobacco and Alcohol: Both tobacco and alcohol can weaken your bones. Give up tobacco and alcohol to prevent bone loss and a host of other health issues.

 This May, use National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month to educate yourself and loved ones about this condition. Resolve to make healthier lifestyle choices to ensure you keep your bones healthy and strong. While lost bone mass cannot be replaced, the measures to slow down bone loss rest in your hands.

Whether you’d like to get general advice about Osteoporosis prevention, pick up a calcium supplement or fill a prescription, we look forward to working with you soon! Visit [company_short] to speak with a pharmacy staff member today.

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Is Gluten-Free Good for You?

2014May08_GenPharma_AA gluten-free diet is a diet that completely excludes gluten. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as oats, barley, rye, wheat and triticale – a cross between rye and wheat. It is what makes dough elastic and usually plays a role in the final chewiness of bread.

Recently, it’s been the topic of conversation in many circles. You have probably seen the words gluten-free written next to dishes on restaurant menus or on grocery store products. At the very least, you may have heard a close friend mention his or her gluten-intolerance. The gluten-free lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular as the number of people who voluntarily choose a gluten-free diet for weight loss or general health reasons combines with a skyrocket in the number of people with difficulty processing gluten.

Time Magazine recently rated the gluten-free movement second on its list of the top 10 food trends. And in one survey, one in three Americans said they were “trying to cut back or avoid gluten” in their diet. Another one in two believed gluten-free diet was a healthy option. This already tells you what the future holds. The message is spreading fast and more people are reconsidering their intake of gluten.

How bad is gluten?

There are mixed reviews and varied opinions from health and diet professionals. While some think the industry is reacting to a true health crisis, others think the current gluten craze is just one of the latest diet fads.

However, there is a genuine group of people who suffer from celiac disease and cannot tolerate even the slightest amounts of gluten. According to a Harvard report, this number could be as high as two million in the United States, while only about 300,000 have been diagnosed.

Celiac Disease

In people suffering from celiac disease, gluten triggers a response from the immune system that damages the lining of the small intestine often resulting in diarrhea and complications related to malnutrition – caused by inability to absorb minerals and vitamins. Sufferers report symptoms that include bloating, constipation, fatigue, headache and trouble concentrating, as well as weight loss. Diagnosis usually involves a biopsy along with several blood tests.

Although celiac disease is the most well-known side effect of consuming gluten, emerging evidence indicates that the now unpopular protein may also cause a condition known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

If you suspect that you might be reacting poorly to gluten foods, speak with your healthcare professional. For the most accurate results, get tested for the disease before beginning a gluten-free diet.

Unless you are experiencing one or all of the symptoms listed above, a gluten-free diet may not be necessary for you. Prior to beginning any new diet, it’s always smart to consult your doctor. At [company_short], your neighborhood healthcare experts are always a resource available to you. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit the store to discuss any concerns.

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The Dangers of Added Sugar

2014May06_GenPharma_AYou may remember your parents telling you that eating too much candy would result in rotting teeth. As it turns out, cavities and other teeth problems are just a small aspect of the true dangers of a high sugar diet. In fact, consuming even moderate amounts of refined sugar and sugar-laden products can result in some serious health repercussions.

We all love a sweet treat from time to time, but it’s important to be familiar with the potential risks, in order to make educated decisions about what to limit and when. Here are 5 health issues that have been linked to diets high in sugar.

 Heart Disease

People who eat a lot of refined sugar typically have high levels of triglycerides in their blood, which are known to increase the risk of heart disease. High sugar diets also tend to coincide with low HDL cholesterol levels too, which are actually good for you.

 Candida

The healthy bacteria in your gut help to keep natural (and healthy) levels of yeast in check. But added sugar in the diet makes it hard for the bacteria to do its job because it feeds the yeast, more often than not creating an overgrowth that’s referred to as Candida.

 Type 2 Diabetes

 Diabetes is an ailment that puts so much stress on the body that it can lead to other serious problems like nerve damage, blindness, and even the need for amputations. Added sugar in the diet on a regular basis can result in pre-diabetes symptoms that start to wreak havoc on the body quickly. If pre-diabetes is left untreated, a diagnosis for type 2 diabetes is just around the corner.

 Cancer

Many health professionals believe that cancer thrives on processed foods and foods high in sugar. In fact, sugar is used to help detect cancer. This is done by giving a sugary solution to patients before a PET test is taken to help find the presence of cancer. Once the solution is digested in the blood system, a PET scan is done to see what areas of the body are using up the most glucose from the solution. The areas that like the sugar most are considered possible malignancies.

A Weakened Immune System

Sugar puts a lot of stress on the body overall, weakening the immune system and causing body-wide inflammation. In short, the immune system tends to look at sugar as an offender and works to fight against it as it digests. This means that it can’t focus on the important aspects of keeping your body clean and minimizing radical damage that we come in contact with in our everyday lives.

 As you can see, consuming a diet filled with refined sugar can be dangerous to your health. To break or reduce your sugar habit, try replacing soda with sparkling water. Start reading the labels on everything in your home. You’ll probably be very surprised at all the places added sugars are hidden in your everyday diet. And next time you have a sweet tooth, reach for a piece of fruit instead of a cookie.

As always, please feel free to consult the staff at [company_short] with any health-related questions. We’re happy to help!

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April is Autism Awareness Month

2014Apr30_GenPharma_A2April 2nd, 2014 was the 7th annual World Autism Awareness Day. On this day every year, autism organizations around the world such as Autism Speaks and the Autism Society honor the day with unique awareness and fundraising events. Throughout the entire month of April, individuals and organizations hold events to raise funds for research, training and care, as well as awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

  • Autism spectrum disorder currently impacts 1 in 68 children in America.

  • That’s a 30% increase in just two years!

According to healthcare professionals, the earlier a child is diagnosed with autism, the better their chances of overcoming difficulties and living a more normal life. The funds raised during Autism Awareness Month are critically important for educating the healthcare community and general public to recognize the developmental problems associated with ASD.

According to Robert Ring, chief science officer for Autism Speaks, autism is a lifelong disorder that requires care and services that only begin at the time of diagnosis. The funds raised during awareness days provide crucial financial support for the proper training of professionals to help care for those with autism.

Through a variety of events, Autism Awareness Month celebrates the unique skills and talents of people with autism.

  • Presidential and Congressional declarations

  • Local activities and community events

  • Online activities and events

Get Involved

There are several ways you can show your support for autism this month.

  • Share the National Autism Awareness Month Badge on your social media profiles such as Twitter and Facebook.

  • Sign up for the Autism Matters e-newsletter to learn more about how you can help in the fight against autism.

  • Talk to your friends and family about autism.

  • Show your support with the Autism Puzzle Ribbon. Wear it on your shirt, place a sticker on your car, upload it to your blog or facebook profile.

  • Plan an event of your own. Run a race of plan a silent auction to raise awareness and funds.

This month, we encourage members of our community to pause for autism. We look forward to seeing you at [company_short] soon!

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The Benefits of Early Rising

2014Apr30_GenPharma_A Circadian rhythms are the name given to your internal clock, the body system that decides, in part, when you are awake and when you sleep. People who wake up extremely early are often referred to as morning larks, while those who are awake, happiest and most productive at night are called night owls. The majority of people fall somewhere in between these two extremes, ruled more by the body’s 24-hour cycle than specific times.

Morning Lark vs. Night Owl

Health professionals have long believed that the body is more naturally set up to rise early and go to bed early. In fact, history shows that our ancestors lived full lives from sunup to sundown. But with the invention of electricity and the onset of 24-hour factories, the expectations for the internal clocks of recent generations were adjusted.

When it comes to morning larks and night owls, one is not necessarily better than the other. It usually comes down to personal preference and a case can certainly be made for both sides. Regardless, here are 4 top reasons to try your hand at early rising.

Morning Lark Advantages

  • Those who rise earlier tend to be happier people in general and less prone to bouts of depression. Natural sunlight helps brighten moods and those who rise early are more apt to get the benefits from sunlight that can’t be found in other places.

  • Morning larks are better problem solvers. Those who rise early have been shown to be more conscientious, which helps them focus on many different solutions to an unexpected problem, giving them a greater chance of coming up with a quick solution than their night counterparts.

  • Morning people tend to get better grades. Classes are arranged on the schedule that best suits a morning riser. They have a chance to get more sleep and have their brains awake and clear for classes. Night owls tend to get less sleep and this, in turn, causes the brain to work slower and not be as clear during daytime hours, resulting in lower test scores.

  • Larks are more productive. Before the owl even has time to clear the fuzziness from his brain, the lark has put in several hours of work already. The places they need to contact are open when they are awake, business meetings can take place and generally their energy levels are at their highest before lunch.

Tips for Change

It is possible to change your schedule if you are a night owl trying to become more of a morning person. A few things you can do to accomplish this are:

  • Set a schedule for retiring and rising and keep to the schedule, even on weekends. You may want to change the times in 15-minute increments to help your body adjust gradually.

  • Don’t hit that snooze button. Night owls often fall into their deepest sleep about sunrise.  Hitting the snooze button could cause you to sleep through the alarm when it next rings.

  • Avoid “blue” light an hour before bed. This is the light that comes from computers, televisions, phones and other electronic devices. Try to avoid all of these for at least an hour before bed as they are known to stimulate you and make sleep more difficult.

If you’re looking for tips related to a healthy sleep schedule, we can help! Just stop by [company_short] or call [phone_main] for personalized recommendations. We can even suggest supplements based on your current medications. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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Healthy or Hazardous: The Truth About Salt

2014Apr23_GenPharma_ASalt is everywhere. Chicken noodle soup, pizza and even “healthy” frozen dinners are some of the biggest culprits. It’s a huge part of the American diet, but it’s also a source of controversy.

Do you know how much sodium you consume each day? The average adult takes in 50 to 100 percent more than the recommended maximum of daily sodium intake. Chances are, you’re eating more salt than recommended without even knowing it. And while many of us have been told to reduce salt intake for health reasons, the evidence (or lack thereof) to support that advice is up for discussion.

The war on salt

The CDC and the American Heart Association currently recommend that the appropriate salt intake for adults under 50 is about 2,300 mgs. For those over 50, the recommendation drops to 1,500 mgs. But new research appearing in the American Journal of Hypertension shows that national diet guidelines regarding salt intake are unreasonable and possibly hazardous to your health. In fact, some professionals say that the amount of sodium 95% of Americans consume on a daily basis, which is 2,645 to 4,945 mgs, is actually associated with better mortality rates than low-salt diets.

According to Brian Strom, MD, chair of the Institute of Medicine’s report committee, there is no evidence to support the idea that people who consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day have fewer strokes or heart attacks than those who consume higher amounts.

The danger of low-salt diets

Because salt has been vilified for many years, it’s easy to forget that sodium is an essential nutrient providing many functions in the body. It helps to control heart rate and aids in the transmission of brain signals. Studies have found that while lowering sodium consumption can have a positive effect on blood pressure, it can also increase cholesterol and insulin resistance. So the blood pressure benefits may not be worth the associated negatives.

A startling 2011 study tracked 28,880 people with heart disease or diabetes and found that those who consumed less than 2,000 milligrams of sodium a day were 37 percent more likely to die of heart disease than those who consumed 4,000 to 6,000 milligrams. As sodium intake drops, blood levels of cholesterol and fat can increase, escalating cardiovascular issues.

So what’s the answer?

According to WebMD, a recent study shows that both too little and too much salt are harmful, so we need to find a happy medium. While new research suggests that Americans consume a healthy amount of salt, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to stand by their recommendations. Most people can still afford to cut back, but avoiding a low-salt diet can ensure you’re getting to reap the health benefits that salt has to offer.

It’s always helpful to consult a health professional when considering a new diet. A low-salt diet is no exception. We recommend taking a closer look at your daily sodium intake to make sure it isn’t too low or too high. And don’t forget, you have an incredible health resource at your fingertips when you visit [company_short]. Please feel free to stop by or give us a call at [phone_main] with any concerns.

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3 Ways to Ease Back Pain

2014Apr16_GenPharma_ADid you know that Americans spend at least $50 billion each year on lower back pain? It’s the top cause of job disability around the world and about one in 10 people suffer with it. Chronic back pain is serious – studies show that it can cause loss of productivity and even more frightening, loss of years of life.

The world’s growing elderly population means that people are living longer with pain. Additionally, technological advances cause more people to suffer with back pain due to time spent in front of a computer or hunched over a cellphone or tablet. In fact, a recent study shows that 18-24 year olds have missed an average of 6.74 days due to back pain as compared to 5.12 for 45 to 54 year olds. Other factors contributing to back pain include age, stress, a sedentary lifestyle and smoking. No matter the cause, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat the pain.

Here are the top three ways to prevent the most common types of back pain.

#1: Exercise often.

Because a sedentary lifestyle is thought to be a major contributor to back pain, exercise can be one of the most effective treatments. Strengthening back and abdominal muscles is especially important for people with skeletal irregularities. Low impact exercises that include stretching are ideal. Try yoga, swimming or walking.

#2: Pay attention to posture.

Good posture is especially important if you are sitting for an extended period of time, like so many in today’s modern workforce. You’ll want to make sure your seat has back support and arm rests with additional support in the small of your back. Ideally, your knees and hips should be level with elbows at right angles and horizontal forearms.

#3: Lift from the knees.

Whether you’re moving a box, picking up a child or lifting weights in a gym, it’s critical to use your legs, not your back. Try to keep your back as straight as possible, bending only at the knees. Keep your gaze straight ahead of you, so that the back of your neck and your spine are aligned.

Treatment Options

When you do experience back pain, a combination of cold and hot compresses along with the use of an over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen, can be helpful. Other treatment options may include acupuncture or chiropractic adjustments. However, if your back pain is accompanied by pain down the legs, difficulty urinating, swelling of the back or numbness around the buttocks, you’ll want to consult a doctor.

If you have any questions about the prevention and treatment of lower back pain, the staff at [company_short] is always here to help. Give us a call at [phone_main] or stop by the store to meet with one of our healthcare experts.

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9 Reasons Monkeys Had It Right All Along – The Health Benefits of Bananas

2014Apr09_GenPharma_AIf you think bananas are just for monkeys, think again! The easy-to-eat fruit is packed with health benefits. Whether you’re struggling with digestive issues, depression, anemia or something else, you may want to consider bananas as part of your solution.

Bananas contain fiber along with three sugars – fructose, sucrose, and glucose. This makes them a winning combination for instantaneous and sustainable energy boosts. In fact, research has shown that eating just two bananas provides enough energy for a strenuous 90 minute workout.  Is it any wonder that they’re the choice fruit among world class athletes?

The list of benefits associated with bananas is long, but we’ve put together a compilation of highlights for you. Here are nine powerful reasons to incorporate bananas into your daily diet.

#1: Heartburn Help

Bananas have antacid properties, so if you suffer from gastric reflux you should try a banana for soothing relief.

#2: Nerve Neutralizer

Feeling stressed or anxious at work? Instead of heading to the vending machine for chocolate or chips, reach for a banana. The B vitamins calm the nervous system to ameliorate pressure at the workplace.

#3: Beat High Blood Pressure

Bananas are high in potassium and low in sodium, which make them great contributors to healthy blood pressure. Most people don’t get enough potassium and don’t realize that it can help with hypertension.

#4: Brain Power

Research has shown that the potassium and vitamin B6 found in bananas can assist in learning by making students more alert. Eating bananas can do wonders for the mental acuity of aging people, too.

#5: Morning Sickness Solution

Snacking on bananas between meals helps to sustain blood sugar levels and avoid morning sickness.

#6: Constipation Elimination

High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

#7: Counteract Depression

Bananas are rich in tryptophan, the essential amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin. Because serotonin is known to relax the mind and enhance your mood, many believe that a banana a day keeps depression away.

#8: Hangover Remedy

Eating a banana can restore depleted potassium and blood sugar, calm the stomach and help with rehydration after drinking too much. Try a banana milkshake sweetened with honey.

#9: Ulcer Reducer

Certain ingredients in bananas can increase mucus in the digestive tract, which provides a strong protective coating to prevent and heal ulcers.

Whether you’re making a smoothie, embellishing a peanut butter sandwich or eating it right from the peel, adding a banana to your daily diet is probably not a bad idea. Because certain medications can deplete the potassium in your body, an extra banana is even more important to some than others. Speak with a staff member at [company_short] or call [phone_main] to receive personalized recommendations based on your medical history.

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