Happy Holidays from Tova! Breaking the Sickle Cycle

Annual Holiday Party at Bowlerama

 

Vitamin D Tests Aren't Needed For Everyone, Federal Panel Says

re-blogged from NPR
November 24, 2014 5:05 PM ET

Nancy Shute

 

 Click here,

Vitamin D Tests Aren't Needed for Everyone

 

Ethnicity may make a difference in vitamin D levels; African-Americans typically have lower levels, but it's not known if that's deficient or OK.

And then there's the fact that the blood test can be expensive, running $50 to $220. Since vitamin D supplements are cheap, some doctors say it's easier just to tell people to take supplements rather than mess around with a blood test.

Shots - Health News

Fewer Americans Need Vitamin D Supplements Under New Guidelines

In 2010, the Institute of Medicine issued a report saying that vitamin D is vital for bone health, but other than that there isn't evidence that low levels of vitamin D cause disease. It recommended that adults up to age 70 get 600 milligrams of D a day, with 800 milligrams for people over 70.

 

People can make vitamin D when exposed to sunshine. But many people in North America never get enough sun to do that

Stockphoto

Always talk with your healthcare provider before taking any Vitamin supplements. 

All the best,  Dr. Nina

                                             

 

 

Tova Cares: Healthy Tidbits Winter

Beat Holiday Stress with Mindfulness

Planning for the holidays and entertaining family and friends can be stressful in these hard economic times.  Especially when reflecting on loss loved ones can bring back unwelcome memories which may increase stress and unwanted emotions.  Those who have families who are incarcerated also ponder on their mental, physical and emotional well-being while doing their time behind bars.  Yes, the holidays present constant demands such as parties, baking cookies, cleaning, purchasing gifts on a ‘shoe string’ budget and entertaining.  I have found that planning ahead and sticking to a realistic budget before starting gift and food shopping is helpful.  Accept that family traditions change overtime as children and grand-children may be unable to visit due to their work and financial demands.  Acknowledge your feelings about these changes and find creative ways to connect and celebrate together such as sharing pictures, e-mail and videos.  Most of all, holidays can become a free for all by overindulging at holiday parties on sweets and alcoholic drinks.  Remember to get plenty of rest and continue to incorporate physical activity into your daily schedule.  Most of all take a breather and make some to for yourself.  Go to tovacaresblogspot.com to read Mayo Clinics, Healthy Lifestyle:  Stress management
                                
             http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544
            
             All the best,  Dr. Nina
       

Staying Mindful during the Holiday Season

WORLD AIDS DAY FORUM - DECEMBER 6th

Sent along by Duffy's Hope,

                  Guest Speaker is, "D.J. Mifflin" from Fox Hit Series, Sleepy Hollow

 

All the best,  Dr. Anderson

A Black Cosmetic Company Sells, Or Sells Out?

re-blogged from NPR

October 24, 2014 6:48 AM ET
Karen Grigsby

        There is a huge market for Natural Hair products for women of color and beauty product conglomerates are getting into the market.  I have been without a perm for over 2 years and my hair is much healthier than with a perm. Being that I am more environmentally conscious, I also wanted to liberate myself from the chemicals used in the perm products to straighten hair that aim to define ones ethnic beauty. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a website (Greener Products) to provide consumers with information about ingredients in hair products. Studies found that chemicals in hair products may increase risk of early puberty in children and higher rates of cancer in hair salon workers.  Another close friend of mine has gone natural and her hair looks great!   The entrepreneur (African-American woman) who started Carol's Daughter recently sold her company and brand to L'Oreal due to struggling sales and the competitive market of natural hair products.  Her products were used by celebrities fans on the A-list including Jada Pinkett Smith, Gabrielle union and Mary J. Blige.  
      Sort of reminds me of Madam C.J. Walker Madam CJ Walker Official site (1st African-American self- made Millionaire) whose company manufactured black hair and beauty products.  What are your thoughts?

Click on,
                                   Natural Hair product company gets bought by L'Oreal

Johnny Nunez/Getty Images

      Cosmetics giant L'Oréal purchased Carol's Daughter, a beauty company that sells natural hair and skin products for black women, earlier this week. It may seem like an unlikely chapter in the story of a business that began in a Brooklyn kitchen.