The Truth About Eggs

2014Aug26_GenPharma_AEggs have been a versatile food source for centuries. Have them as scrambled eggs in the morning or as a simple egg sandwich for lunch. Eggs are packed with high quality proteins and other valuable nutrients. However, there has been some concern about the high cholesterol content of eggs. As it turns out, the cholesterol issue may have been overblown. There is no question that eggs are good for us, but they should be eaten in moderation.

Much of the nutritional content of eggs is found in the egg yolk. Egg yolk has approximately 213 mg of cholesterol, which provides two thirds of your recommended daily intake. According to the latest guidelines by the American Heart Association, eggs are good for you providing you keep to the recommended cholesterol intake of 300mg per day.

The Health Benefits of Eggs

One egg contains about 7 grams of protein and 78 calories, making eggs ideal for people watching their weight. Egg whites contain more protein than egg yolks, at about 3.6 mg compared to 2.7mg for egg yolks. Eggs are an important protein source because they contain nine amino acids that your body needs for protein synthesis.

The Nutritional Value of Egg Yolks

Egg yolks have 4.5 grams fat and store the bulk of nutrients, which include the following macro nutrients and minerals:

  • Protein – High quality protein for building muscle and organ tissue.
  • Saturated and unsaturated fat – Fat is needed for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins.
  • Vitamin B12 – vital for good central nervous system functioning
  • Vitamin B9/Folate – Vital for fetal development. Folate and B12 together combats anemia.
  • Calcium – Together with phosphorus and magnesium needed for good bone formation
  • Iron – Important in preventing anemia and deficiency of the immune system

Other important vitamins and minerals in egg yolks include:

  • Selenium – Needed for male fertility and good thyroid function
  • Phosphorus – Assists in teeth and bone formation.
  • Zinc – Together with selenium, it is important for a properly function immune system.
  • Vitamin A –  necessary for good vision, immune system and reproductive system
  • Vitamin D – vital for strong bones and aids in the absorption of calcium, iron, and zinc.
  • Vitamin E – crucial as an anti-oxidant, for a good immune system, skin, and eyes
  • Vitamin B5 – Essential for the central nervous system, the metabolizing of glucose into energy and the immune system.

The Nutrients Content of Egg Whites

Egg white is also high in protein but low in nutrient content. However, it contains high trace amounts of Riboflavin, sodium and potassium, with zero cholesterol and insignificant amount of fat.

The Benefits of Eating Eggs

There are many benefits in eating eggs apart from the nutrient value. Eggs are source of carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which combats macular degeneration in adults. Choline in eggs improves memory and regulates the nervous system. The high sulfur content in eggs fosters good hair and nail growth.

How Much Egg Should You Eat?

The amount of eggs you eat depends on your cholesterol level and overall health. If your cholesterol level is normal, one to three eggs per week would be fine, but you may have to cut back on high cholesterol foods such as cheese, pork sausages, red meats, sea foods, and poultry. If you have a cholesterol problem or are concerned about the high fat content of yolks, egg whites are safe to eat, as they contain no cholesterol and negligible fat.

Whenever you have concerns about your diet or anything else health related, we would love to speak with you. Visit us or give us a call at [phone_main] to speak with a pharmacy staff member.

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Are You Consuming Enough Protein?

2014Aug21_GenPharma_ADue to the many health benefits associated with protein intake, you cannot afford to avoid them in your meals. Leave alone the anti-protein campaigns; you need it and you can eat a lot of it. How is this possible? Here are the ‘WHYs’ and ‘HOWs’ you need to know as far as protein intake is concerned.

Why you need protein

  • To build muscle. Proteins are known to help in building strong muscles. Whether you are a gym fan or not, somehow you need strong muscles. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn. Just ensure that you do not exceed your protein intake to more than 30% of the protein content in your meals because excess of protein does more harm than good.
  • Feel fuller, longer. You will not eat snacks every now and then after you have a meal with sufficient amount of protein because protein is a macronutrient that takes time to be broken down.
  • Burn more calories. Protein needs more energy to be broken down. This is good news since more calories will burn in the process.
  • Muscle preservation. To keep your muscles in good condition, you need to take in more proteins.

How you can safely eat more protein

For a start, you should first know your daily protein needs. Men require more protein than women and this should help you in calculating your specific protein needs. If you are a vegetarian, plant proteins should make up a considerable share of your meal. Once you establish your daily protein needs (clinically or through gauging your daily activity) stick to that nutritional quota.

You also need to know if you are among those with special-added protein requirement. If you happen to be one, then you can take more protein without risking your health. How do you know whether you have this special need? Well, if you are an athlete, have a hyper-metabolism or have a kidney problem, you definitely qualify. A dietitian can help you calculate or determine this special need.

Thorough evaluation is essential in order to know the amount of protein you should take. This will help in deciding whether you are taking enough or you have a deficiency. It is thus essential to have a mechanism to calculate the amount of protein in each food you take. You can use the USDA database for this purpose.

To eat more protein, be able to identify protein sources

To ensure that you are consuming the required amount of protein, you need to know all your protein sources. There are numerous sources of protein which you may not know, so do a little reading to find out what those hidden sources may be. Having a variety of sources ensures that you always have adequate quantities in every meal. It is also essential that you rotate your protein sources between plants and animal.

Cook proteins in a new way

Get creative with every meal and make every meal a new experience. For instance, instead of going for the usual omelet every morning, why not try out a vegetable frittata? This will give you an added amount of protein from different sources.

If you have any questions about dietary needs or supplements to your diet, including protein or any other nutrient, please don’t hesitate to ask. The pharmacy staff at [company_short] is available in person or by phone at [phone_main] for personalized recommendations. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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Healthy Snack Idea: Eat More Nuts!

2014Aug_19When it comes to healthy snacks, most automatically think of foods like fruits and vegetables, but nuts are actually super nutritious for you too. Unfortunately, though, a lot of people today do not include nuts in their diet because they feel this food contains too many calories. Well, these individuals are definitely missing out a whole lot of benefits. Whether it is almonds or cashews, these treats have been seen to do everything from weight control to lower cholesterol. Read below to find out some of the best kinds of nuts to eat daily.

How to Eat Nuts

  • When it comes to eating nuts, this is very simple. While some are already pre-shelled, so you can eat them right there and then, many are not. If that is the case, you’ll need to get crack open the shell containing the nut meat with a vise. To do this, start out by placing your walnut shell in-between the jaws of your vise. Make sure that the shell is in there securely. From there, begin pressing down tightly on the vise until the shell breaks open. Inside the cracked shell, you will find the actual nut that you can eat right on the spot.

Walnuts

  • The walnut has the most antioxidants out of any kind of nuts. In case you’ve never heard of an antioxidant, it is basically what aids your body in fighting cellular damage. This is important because this type of damage contributes to premature aging, cancer and heart disease.
  • Walnuts are also the richest nuts in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for combating inflammation. If you need unsaturated fats in your diet, because you’re not a fan of fish, walnuts are exactly what you should be ingesting, since they are mainly found here.

Almonds

  • If you’re on a diet, almonds are great nuts to stock up on. That is because they hold the most fiber, at roughly three grams per ounce, compared to any other type of nuts. In general, fiber is a fantastic tool for losing weight, because it has the ability to leave us feeling fuller sooner than other foods would. Plus, foods filled with fiber stay in our stomachs longer, which slows down our rate of digestion.
  • Almonds also contain the most vitamin E out of every single type of nuts. In particular, vitamin E is known for protecting the body against heart disease and can even slow down all the deterioration that comes with the aging process.

Cashews

  • Cashews are very rich in both iron and zinc, which really make a big difference on your health. That is because iron aids in getting oxygen to all of the cells in your body. This can prevent anemia from happening. Zinc is also crucial because it helps keep your immune system healthy and even leaves your vision stronger than ever before.
  • Magnesium is also found in cashews. This mineral can help improve your memory, while also protecting the body against memory loss brought on by old age.

Brazil Nuts

  • When you eat just one Brazil nut, you’re receiving more than 100 percent of the daily value of selenium your body needs. What many people do not know about this mineral, though, is that is has been proven to prevent certain cancers from forming, including prostate, bone and breast cancer. That is because selenium works to battle cancer by hindering the growth of any cancerous cells.
  • Brazil nuts are also a rich source of protein, since they contain all the essential amino acids that your body needs for development and human growth.

What other healthy snacks are you missing out on? At [company_short], we are your experts on healthy living. Visit the store or give us a call to learn more tips on living the fullest, healthiest life possible.

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5 Ways to Maximize Healthy Travel

2014Aug12_GenPharma_ATraveling for a business occasion, family visit, or even a simple and fun vacation can really take a toll on your health. Time spent in airports and train stations combined with a diversion from your regular diet and sleep schedule often result in a lowered immune system. There are steps you can take to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of getting sick during a travel. Here are 5 ways to stay healthy while traveling.

#1: Make rest a priority

Lack of sleep and reset can make you more susceptible to illness. Make down time a major part of your travels. Take time out to relax and get adequate sleep. Many times we sleep less while traveling because of scheduled activities. If possible, make it a priority to maintain an 8-hour nightly sleep pattern.

#2: Keep up the exercise

Staying active will help you stay healthy. If you travel for long periods of time, be sure to maintain an exercise routine of some sort. Make use of hotel workout centers and walk as much as you can. Consider taking the stairs instead of elevators when possible. Stretch when you first wake up.

#3: Eat right

Eating habits can change drastically when traveling. But it is very important to eat right in order to stay healthy. Pack healthy snack options when you are on the go rather then buying junk foods. Don’t skip breakfast. Choose options such as lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains when you eat out.

#4: Pack the essentials for healthy travel

Depending on your destination, you may need to update immunizations for certain international travel. Don’t forget to pack a few things to help you stay healthy and safe during travel. Certain items may help ward off an illness if you begin to experience symptoms. Items to consider include:

  • Prescription medications
  • Bandage strips
  • Nail clippers
  • Sunscreen
  • Pain reliever
  • Antihistamine
  • Stomach soother
  • Nasal spray
  • Insect repellant
  • Hand sanitizer

#5: Avoid en-route ailments

Whether you’re concerned about motion sickness, jet lag or earaches, remember thesetips as you travel to help alleviate common en-route ailments.

  • To relieve queasiness from motion sickness, try over-the-counter medication or sea bands.
  • To reduce jet lag, stay hydrated, drink plenty of water and avoid overeating.
  • To ease or avoid earaches, try yawning to stretch the jaw and relieve pressure, chewing gum or taking an over-the-counter decongestant.
  • Avoid vein and clotting issues by stretching and moving around often.

Be sure to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer when a sink is not available. When you depart for your next getaway, keep these tips in mind to maintain your health and get the most out of your vacation time. If you’re looking for recommendations on which products to pack for your next trip, please feel free to consult the staff at [company_short]. We look forward to seeing you soon. Here’s to a happy, safe trip!

 

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Is chewing gum giving you a headache?

2014Aug08_GenPharma_ADid you know that the average person chews over 300 sticks of gum in one year? There are 3.74 trillion sticks of chewing gum made each year and annual chewing gum sales in the U.S. exceeds $2 billion. With statistics like that, it’s important to know the facts on what we’re putting in our bodies.

Facts on Chewing Gum: The Good and Bad

Many of us have been under the impression that chewing gum exercises our jaw muscles, freshens breath and helps maintain oral health. That all sounds positive, but chewing gum also has its downsides. It can cause stress, headaches, gas, bloating and tension.

Like candy, sugary gum can increase the likelihood of dental cavities. That’s why dentists recommend sugar free gum. However, sugar free gums contain sorbitol and artificial sweeteners, which trigger pain in the frontal lobe of the skull that can lead to a severe migraine in some cases. Migraines caused by gum are especially common in teens and children. The sorbitol ingredient can also lead to abdominal pain, fructose malabsorption and even colon cancer. On the other hand, gum can be a useful tool for smokers to camouflage the smell of tobacco or to help prevent cravings.

Why does chewing gum cause headaches?

There are two main reasons why chewing gum causes headache. First, most popular gum brands are loaded with artificial sweeteners, sugars and preservatives. Even medicated gums may contain some controversial ingredients. Also, while chewing gum, the jaw muscles are continuously moving. Have you ever noticed that when there is gum in your mouth, you tend to constantly chew it without giving your jaws a break? The continuous movement of the TMJ muscles cause stress to the bone and frontal lobe of the head.

If you suffer from frequent headaches for an unknown reason, chewing gum could be the culprit. If taking a break from gum doesn’t reduce your symptoms, be sure to speak with a healthcare professional about the potential for more serious underlying issues. The staff at [company_short] is always here to answer any questions.

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Juvenile Arthritis: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

2014Aug06_GenPharma_AWhen you hear the word ‘arthritis’, the elderly typically comes to mind. It’s difficult to link the term with anyone under the age of 16, but according to the Arthritis Foundation, the disease affects children more than juvenile diabetes and cystic fibrosis.

It’s essential to be informed about this condition, as you never know when someone close to you or your own children could be attacked. Check out some important details that will help broaden your knowledge and compel you to continue getting the word out about early signs and preventative techniques.

Defining Juvenile Arthritis

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH) defines Juvenile Arthritis (JA) as an autoimmune disease that typically leads to joint inflammation in children. Swelling occurs in the synovium, the tissue that lines inside of the joints. In some cases, JA can also have an impact on the eyes, skin, and gastrointestinal tract.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is the most common form and umbrellas 5 distinct types of arthritis conditions found in children:

#1: Oligoarthritis

Also known as Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Oligoarthritis typically damages the wrists, knees, and ankles within the first six months that those under the age of 16 contract the disease. It can also take a toll on the eyes, girls tend to show signs of this condition more than boys.

#2: Psoriatic Arthritis

This is a combination of arthritis and the skin ailment referred to as psoriasis. Kids who exhibit signs of both illnesses usually have pitted fingernails. It’s typical for children to develop one condition before the other occurs in the body.

#3: Systemic Arthritis

Children with this form of arthritis generally suffer from high fevers and skin rashes on their arms or legs. It’s also known to affect internal organs, including the spleen, heart, lymph nodes, and liver. Another name for this condition is still’s disease.

#4: Polyarthritis

Like the term suggests, this condition usually affects multiple joints in the body, especially during the first six months that it’s experienced. The jaw, neck, hands, and feet are the areas most impacted. More girls contract polyarthritis than boys.

#5: Enthesitis-related Arthritis

This affliction mainly takes its toll on boys over 8 years old. Health experts have discovered that there’s a history of back pain caused by arthritis on a child’s male side of his family. Sufferers experience pain and irritation in the eyes, spine, hips and entheses.

What’s the Origin?

Doctor’s still aren’t certain about what causes Juvenile Arthritis. However, there’s theories involving a child’s genetic make-up, as well as environmental factors like diet and exposure to food that triggers allergies.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

It’s extremely vital to pay attention to your child’s body and movements. JA sufferers tend to have swelling, stiffness, and excruciating pain that nearly cripples them and keeps them from having an enjoyable quality of life. If you notice any red flags, consult with a pediatric rheumatologist right away because, as the Arthritis National Research Foundation indicates, the outcome can be fatal if left untreated.

Treatment & Prevention

While there’s no known cure for JA, there’s a number of preventative treatments that can help lessen the discomfort and keep the disease from permanently disabling a child by the time they reach adulthood. Many physicians recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that alleviate pain. Patients may also be encouraged to engage in more natural remedies like routine physical therapy to calm the bones and restore movement. Medical tools like splints and orthopedic shoes are also beneficial to the joints.

Whether you have questions about a specific health issue, need supplies and medication, or just need general advice for a healthy lifestyle, the staff at [company_short] is here for you! Just stop by the store of give us a call.

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Soy Milk vs. Almond Milk: Which Is Better?

2014July08_GenPharma_AThe market for dairy-free alternative milks has skyrocketed within just a few years. The presence of food allergies and sensitivities in thousands of people is unfortunate, but has revolutionized the products that are available. Whether you’re intolerant to soy, nuts, or gluten, you can find the best dairy free milk alternative for you.

Shopping at the grocery store can get overwhelming and with so many options, you may wonder where to start. Milks are available that are derived from soy, almonds, coconuts, rice and cashews to name a few. Factors that come into play during the decision-making process vary from taste and price to the greatest nutritional punch for your dollar. While each milk boasts its own nutritional powerhouse as well as other pros and cons, the decision often comes down to popular soy milk and almond milk. We’ve gathered all of the data available on these two milks to make your next grocery store trip as easy as possible.

Soy Milk: Delicious and Nutritious

Pro: It’s delicious, nutritionally strong, and flavorful

First in the ring is seasoned player soy milk. For centuries, people have cultivated the soybean to act as solid food as well as a drinkable liquid. And for good reason – soy milk is packed with plant-based protein. Each 8 ounce serving typically racks up to eight grams of protein. Your cells thrive on a protein source to build amino acids that produce the cells in your organs and maintain your DNA. Many soy milks on the market will come in a variety of flavors. Looking for a plain, sweetened, or chocolate soy milk? You’ll find it.

Con: It’s likely mass produced and could be a derivative of genetically modified crops

With the rising demand of soy products on the market, farmers are replacing mainstay crops with soy to generate profit. Because of this, many crops are sprayed heavily with pesticides to ensure that their income does not perish while growing. Mass farming has degenerated the soil that our food sprouts from and the quality of the crops that are harvested from it. Soy milks are less nutritious than they were, so some companies are adding artificial vitamins and minerals. Additionally, soy crops are likely a genetically modified seed, which many people take caution to avoid for their own health and safety.

Almond Milk: Fresh and Revolutionary

Pro: It’s low calorie, versatile, and allergen-friendly

Almond milk is a relatively new product. The appeal is mostly for a soy-free milk option, due to the rise of soy allergies. Almond milk is extracted from fiber-rich almond nuts, which contributes to the fiber level in almond milk — one gram per serving. Zinc, copper, manganese, and potassium and omega 3 fatty acids are contained in it, healing the heart and contributing to your daily nutrient intake. Almond milk is generally lower in calorie than any other milk option: on average, a serving of almond milk contains only 40 calories. Talk about spending calories wisely!

Con: It’s an allergen and not easily absorbed

While almond milk is a great alternative for those with soy allergies, it is also a nut product. If you are allergic or sensitive to nut products it’s best to steer clear of this milk alternative. Coconut and rice milk may be better options for you. Nutritionists and scientists have discovered that the human body does not absorb calcium and vitamins as easily from plant-based foods. Because of this, using almond milk to supplement a diet low in calcium or vitamin D will not assist you in achieving your recommended intake.

There are pros and cons to both soy and almond milk. When shopping for traditional milk alternatives, it’s smart to try multiple options until you find your favorite. lf you have any questions about what’s right for you, don’t hesitate to speak with your local healthcare experts at [company_short].

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Top Tips for Caring for Scars

2014July02_GenPharma_AMost of us have scars that date back to childhood bicycle falls. Whether you can recall the incident or not, each scar has a story associated with it and serves as a reminder about the unique healing ability of the skin.

If your skin gets wounded or you undergo a surgery, a scar is often inevitable. In other cases, scars come from acne or bug bites. Regardless of the cause, you can take steps to facilitate the healing process of your skin. When you do this, you can minimize the appearance of scarring and also ensure you take good care of your body.

Why Do Scars Form?

When your skin is wounded, it develops scars. Wounds are categorized as abrasions, incisions, lacerations and punctures.

If your skin gets scraped or rubbed off, it is known as an abrasion. On the other hand, if your wound penetrates deep into your skin, it is a puncture. Laceration and incision occur when the surface of your skin is damaged, but there is no damage to the tissue under the skin.

If your skin is injured, your body responds immediately to heal the injury. This is done by stimulating more production of collagen, which is a connective tissue. Collagen is transported to the site of the injury, so that the wound can be closed and the skin can begin the healing process. Since the injured area does not contain normal skin parts, it tends to look different and this is what is known as a scar.

Caring for Your Scar

The first step in caring for your scar is caring for the wound. Any supplies you need from ointment to bandages can be purchased at the community pharmacy. Depending on the severity of the injury, here is a basic, 3-step method to care for the wound.

  • Gently clean the area while the wound is fresh.
  • Cover the wound to keep dirt and bacteria out.
  • In order to avoid reopening the wound and introducing bacteria, do not pick at scabs.

Once you have taken care of the wound, it is time to take care of the scar that will form as a result.

  • Consume Vitamins: Vitamins A, C and K can help fight infection and boost skin health. Purchase them from your community pharmacy and take as instructed.
  • Consider a Zinc Supplement: Zinc facilitates healing of the skin and can hasten the healing process, minimizing permanent scarring.
  • Avoid Soaking the Wound: Try not to expose the wound to water for extended periods of time. This will hinder the formation of new skin and also cause scabs to break off.
  • Stay Out of Sunlight: When your wound is healing, protect it from direct sunlight, as it can result in hyperpigmentation and make your scar more noticeable. If you cannot stay out of the sun, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.
  • Do Not Pick the Scab: The scab that forms on the wound site is a protection. It lets your wound heal the way it should. If you pick it, it impedes the healing process and could cause the scar to become permanent. If you find the scar getting overly dry, coat the area with some petroleum jelly to keep it moist.

If your wound is bleeding excessively or the cut seems to be deep, visit your healthcare provider or speak with your community pharmacist immediately. You may require stitches to close the wound and will need to take steps to prevent infection. As always, the staff at [company_short] is here to assist you and recommended products to assist in the healing process. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit the store to speak with us.

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Don’t Miss the Health Benefits in Figs

2014Jun05_GenPharma_APeople have been reaping the health benefits of figs for centuries. This delicately sweet fruit contains an array of vitamins and minerals that can improve your overall health when they are incorporated into a nutritious diet. Follow in the healthy footsteps of the Romans and other ancient civilizations by making figs a regular part of your eating plan. Here are 6 reasons to eat more figs.

Strong Bones and a Healthy Heart

The calcium, magnesium and vitamin K in figs work in unison to strengthen the bones and help them stay healthy. Calcium is the most essential element in building a strong skeletal frame. Vitamin K assists the process by helping the calcium bind to the bones. Magnesium’s role in bone health is more subtle. Over time, getting enough of this nutrient can improve bone density and ward off osteoporosis.

In addition to contributing to bone health, a diet rich in figs can help increase cardiovascular health, lowering your triglyceride levels and reducing your risk of heart disease.

Fiber and Weight Management

The U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests that a small fig contains about 1.2 grams of fiber, and a large one contains almost 2 grams. If you eat this fruit every day, you’ll have no problem getting the recommended 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day.

If weight management is something you’re concerned about, the fiber in figs can help regulate digestion and make you feel fuller longer.

Youthful Skin and Eye Health

Over time, the body accumulates free radicals from food toxins, cigarette smoke and pollution. These unstable molecules attack the cells in your body and leads to premature aging of the skin and eyes. One way to fight back is by consuming antioxidants. The antioxidants in figs can help prevent wrinkles, vision loss and other damage to the body.

Get More Figs in Your Diet

You can buy figs in both fresh and dried form. If you want the maximum nutritional impact, fresh figs are always better. Keep in mind that fresh figs don’t keep well, so if you don’t plan to eat them immediately, dried figs may be a better option.

Here are some ways to add more figs to your diet.

  • Add them to salads and dressings
  • Use them on chicken, pork and beef to add a pop of flavor
  • Put them in plain yogurt to add sweetness
  • Broil fig halves on a baking sheet
  • Add a topping to your pancakes or french toast
  • Eat them raw

Figs are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, calcium, vitamin K and magnesium, so they are a healthy addition to your diet. When you make this fruit a part of your eating plan, it can help keep your bones, skin, eyes and heart in tip-top condition. Adding figs to your daily diet is as easy as snacking on them raw or using them in your favorite recipes.

If you take insulin or a diabetes medication, you’ll want to watch your blood sugar closely when eating figs. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to speak with a staff member at [company_short]. Just give us a call at [phone_main] or stop by!

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Raise Awareness with Men’s Health Month

2014Jun02_GenPharma_AJune is Men’s Health Month! Across the United States, it’s a time for men to focus on their specific health issues, get screened, visit health fairs, participate in health education, be part of outreach activities and also make media appearances.

Why is Men’s Health Month Important?

Did you know that men are 25 percent less likely than women to have visited a doctor within the past year? If health was as simple as walking into a community pharmacy and popping a pill, there would no need to raise awareness about health issues that can and should be prevented. Men’s Health Month exists to increase awareness of various men’s health issues, along with the critical importance of early diagnosis and treatment for diseases that are common among men and boys.

Throughout this month, doctors, policy makers, healthcare providers, individuals and media try to encourage men to educate themselves and their sons, consult doctors if necessary, get medical advice and seek early treatment for diseases and injuries.

Blue for Heart Health

Heart disease is common among men, but many tend to ignore the signs and symptoms. This prevents them from seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Did you know heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States? If you did not, now is the time to wake up and seek early intervention.

Your lifestyle habits and diet have a major impact on your health. You are at a higher risk of developing heart disease if you…

  • Use tobacco
  • Have elevated blood pressure
  • Have diabetes
  • Have a family history of heart disease
  • Are obese
  • Have high LDL and low HDL cholesterol levels
  • Are over 45 years of age

As a man, if you fit any of the risk factors, you definitely should visit your doctor and find out ways to decrease your risk by devising a proper health care plan. In many cases, a lifestyle change that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise is sufficient to reduce your risk.

Preventing Heart Disease

Remember, prevention is always better than a cure. Where heart disease is concerned, you actually can prevent it by taking a few steps.

  • Reduce your intake of saturated fats by avoiding fried and processed foods
  • Exercise five to six days a week for at least 30 minutes each time
  • Eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats
  • If you are overweight, reduce carbohydrate and calorie intake

If you have already been diagnosed with heart disease, consult your doctor about light exercises and consider asking a qualified nutritionist to help plan a healthier daily diet. Also, do not forget to visit the community pharmacy to pick up your prescribed medication and take as instructed.

Prostate Cancer

Another important issue related to men’s health is prostate cancer. Behind skin cancer, it is the most common type of cancer among men. And just like heart disease, making healthy lifestyle choice can aid in the prevention of this disease…

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Get plenty of exercise
  • Eat fruits, vegetables and healthy fats

This June, during Men’s Health Month, make health your priority and also use the month to educate your friends and family about heart disease and other health problems that are common among men and boys. And if you’re wondering about additional steps you can take to prevent and treat specific health issues in men and boys, please don’t hesitate to speak with a staff member at [company_short].

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