SPECIAL SECTION: HEALTHY LIVING
endocarditis. Research suggests that poor oral health is linked to
clogged arteries and stroke as well.
Keeping tabs on your oral health is critical for warding off bad
breath and poor health. It is important to brush at least twice a day,
floss, eat a healthy diet, replace your toothbrush every three to four
months, and avoid tobacco use to maintain a healthy mouth. Visiting
your dentist for regular cleanings can also ensure that oral hygiene is
at its best.
Heart Health
We are all aware that it is important to eat healthy and stay fit
for heart health. A diet rich in plant foods and low in processed
food and animal products lends itself to a happy heart. Paired with
cardiovascular exercise, you’ve got it made for a healthy body. But
have you ever thought of staying positive as a way to keep your heart
healthy? A research study being done at the University of Illinois
shows that people with optimistic attitudes have higher odds of
having ideal cardiovascular health when compared to pessimistic
people. The study analyzed “the mental health, levels of optimism,
and physical health of 5,100 adults ranging from 45 to 84 years of
age. Heart health scores—based on American Heart Associationapproved metrics, including blood pressure and body mass index—
increased right alongside optimism levels.” So when you’re feeling
down, remember that staying positive affects more than just your day,
so keep your head up and your heart happy.
Digestion
Digestive issues affect all of us at one time or another. From upset
stomach, gas, and heartburn, to constipation and diarrhea, digestive
problems are painful and embarrassing. Some of the most common
digestive problems are:
Food Intolerance – Often confused with a food allergy,
food intolerance allows you to eat a small amount of the
offending food without any issues (a food allergy could be lifethreatening). Causes include celiac disease, sensitivity to food
additives, food toxins, and absence of an enzyme needed to fully
digest a food.
u Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – A chronic
digestive disease, GERD is defined as experiencing acid reflux
and heartburn at least twice a week. GERD affects 20 percent
of Americans and can cause persistent bad breath, tooth
erosion, nausea, pain in chest or upper abdomen, or it can make
swallowing and breathing hard to do.
u Hemorrhoids – Hemorrhoids are inflamed blood vessels found
at the end of your digestive tract. Often painful and itchy, they are
caused by chronic constipation, diarrhea, or a lack of fiber in your
diet. Seventy-five percent of Americans over the age of 45 suffer
from hemorrhoids. Staying hydrated, eating more fiber, or overthe-counter creams may provide relief from hemorrhoids.
u Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Affecting 15 percent of
Americans, IBS is characterized by stomach pain or discomfort
at least three times a month for several months. Symptoms
vary widely with IBS, making it hard to determine the exact
cause. Treatment focuses mostly on diet, eliminating common
trigger foods such as dairy, alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners
and beans. Doctors also recommend a diet high in fiber and
consumption of probiotics found in yogurt.
u
Continued on page 28 ➢
26 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Sewickley