Category: Health(y)

Health(y) Promotion

Did You Know That Plants Can Help Reduce Stress?

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Cottonbro Studio on Pexels.com

Plants are essential in relieving stress due to their mood-boosting properties. They provide a positive experience beneficial to a person’s mental and physical inclinations (Gu et al., 2022). The 4 most common plants that are known to reduce stress are Lavender, Jasmine, Lemon balm and Rosemary.

Lavender is one of the plants that help reduce stress. It contains a rich fragrance that boosts an individual’s mood once inhaled. Lavender’s floral smell is stipulated to have a calming effect, which decreases the experience of stress (Thrive, 2023). Consequently, it can be planted in one’s green space to help create positive moods.

Jasmine is also a stress-relieving plant because of its fragrant flowers. Even though it is identified as a shrub, it gives rise to flowers that release a pleasant smell (Thrive, 2023). Thus, when the fragrance is inhaled, an individual experiences a positive mood. This feeling reduces stress and increases contentment with the surrounding (Gu et al., 2022). Jasmine flowers are also colorful, which makes them visually therapeutic. Thus, they help to advance emotional and mental relaxation that reduces stress.

Lemon balm is recognized as one of the plants with positive effects on stress reduction. When used as an herb, its leaves release tantalizing flavors with calming effects (Thrive, 2023). The relaxing properties advance the mitigation of stress and its related issues. Lemon balm also has purple flowers that appear during summer. Their relevance is the provision of visual relaxation, which combats stress. Therefore, the use of this plant would reduce the condition.

Rosemary is a plant that can be used to trigger benefits that limit the experience of anxiety. In the green space, it transforms the atmosphere with its scent. Since it belongs to the mint family, it releases a fresh fragrance (Thrive, 2023). The resultant smell has positive psychological impacts. For example, when inhaled, the fragrance calms the body. It also energizes the mind, which shifts one’s thoughts from stress. Therefore, it is a meaningful plant that would advance the experience of positive outcomes.

References

Gu, J., Liu, H., & Lu, H. (2022). Can even a small amount of greenery be helpful in reducing stress? A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(16), 9778. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19169778

Thrive. (2023). Plants to help ease the mind. Thrive.org. Retrieved from https://www.thrive.org.uk/get-gardening/plants-to-help-ease-the-mind

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Health(y) Prevention Promotion

Are Diabetes Medications the Solution To Weight Loss?

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Olia Danilevich on Pexels.com

The use of diabetes medication for weight loss is a growing trend among people facing obesity risks. A drug called semaglutide is used to help individuals manage their body mass. Based on existing studies, this medication is effective for weight loss. Its criticality is also based on limiting the development of type 2 diabetes (Singh et al., 2021). Patients receiving a dose of semaglutide medication have a higher chance of maintaining a desirable body mass index. Thus, the use of diabetes medications provides leverage for weight loss. This efficacy also makes it possible to mitigate the development and effects tied to type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the medication is a critical intervention for weight-related risk factors.

Even though diabetes medications such as semaglutide and liraglutide have positive effects on weight loss, they have negative implications. For example, their use curbs cravings for certain foods critical for relevant nutrients. The medications also lead to side effects like diarrhea and bloating (Singh et al., 2021). These issues may limit the achievement of the desired life quality. As such, there is a need to consider the reduction of side effects tied to diabetes medications. This stance would increase their efficacy in the advancement of weight loss. Thus, the interventions instigate the limitation of obesity-related issues that may reduce one’s quality of life.

Based on the review of existing studies, diabetes medication for weight loss is effective in mitigating weight-related issues. They also protect against the development of type 2 diabetes among at-risk populations (Singh et al., 2021). Thus, drugs, such as semaglutide, are instrumental to be applied in the weight loss process. They are effective in handling the risk of obesity and diabetes. Despite their side effects, the positive aspects are immense. Therefore, diabetes medication should be used to promote weight loss among at-risk patients.

Reference

Singh, G., Krauthamer, M., & Bjalme-Evans, M. (2021). Wegovy (semaglutide): A new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. Journal of Investigative Medicine, 70(1), 5–13. https://doi.org/10.1136/jim-2021-001952

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Health(y) Prevention Promotion

Got a Tension Headache? Here Are A Few Ways To Relieve It!

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by SHVETS production on Pexels.com

Tension headaches affect the overall well-being of a person. The provision of interventions that relieve them advances the quality of life. One common way to relieve tension headaches is by using painkillers. (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). Medication is the first choice since it relieves pain. Physical exercises, such as yoga, provide leverage for the relaxation of the body, which can help to relieve tension headaches (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). Massages are also used to loosen tension in the head and neck muscles. This intervention is necessary because it stretches tight and shortened muscles, which aids in releasing tension in the head.

Other intervention measures that can be used to advance the relief of tension headaches include getting adequate sleep, using cold ice packs, etc. Changing sleep habits can help limit the experience of sleep apnea or insomnia. Cold packs can also be placed on the head to reduce tension headaches (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). The cooling effect reduces pain and minimizes headaches. If an individual has a tension headache, they are encouraged to stay at home and avoid taxing activities. They would also provide leverage for long-term quality health since they limit the experience of pain.

The application of non-evidence-based intervention measures may also relieve tension headaches. One relevant suggestion is to avoid stressful situations. The probability of having tension headaches are higher when we are stressed, or in noisy environments. That risk decreases when surroundings are conductive. In turn, calm environments are guaranteed to relieve tension headaches.

Reference

Hassan, M., & Asaad, T. (2020). Tension-type headache, its relation to stress, and how to relieve it by cryotherapy among academic students. Middle East Current Psychiatry, 27(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43045-020-00030-3

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Promotion Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Do You Know How to Communicate Effectively?

By trjohns3 on

By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by SHVETS production on Pexels.com

Effective communication greatly influences people’s day-to-day relationships. However, many individuals pay little attention to elements like tone, voice, and non-verbal expressions that allow one to communicate efficiently. Oftentimes, people forget that communication is a two-way activity involving speaking and listening. How people communicate influences the quality of relationships in marriages, friendships, and the workplace.

People must communicate effectively in all their encounters to handle conflicts better and develop self-awareness. Effective communication allows individuals to manage disagreements better in all relationships at personal and professional levels by enabling a person to understand both sides of the problem (Touitou, 2020). Many conflicts often result from miscommunications or failure to hear the other person’s viewpoint. Nevertheless, allowing everyone to explain their view makes it easy to prevent disagreements. In addition, it creates self-awareness as one learns to become more attentive and understanding. In short, practicing effective communication allows people to recognize their emotions and how they impact the communication process.

A person can practice effective communication through active listening, paying attention to body language, and focusing on clarity. Active listening allows one to show the other party their interest in the conversation and can be practiced by asking relevant questions about a topic. Paying attention to body language enables one to understand non-verbal cues. Lastly, a speaker should be clear and concise to avoid confusion. These strategies have been put in place to help individuals become effective communicators within friendships, relationships and the workplace.

References

Paper presented at PMI® Research Conference: Defining the Future of Project Management, Washington, DC. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute. Touitou, T. C. (2020). Communication, conflict and crisis management. European Journal of Business and Management Research, 5(4). https://doi.org/10.24018/ejbmr.2020.5.4.251

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Advocacy Encouragement Health(y) Protection

Damar Hamlin and the Injury Seen Around the Nation

By trjohns3 on

By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Figure 1 Photo Credit: Damar Hamlin Instagram Account @d.ham3 (2023).

Damar Hamlin is a name that might not have been known to many before January 02, 2023. However, now, Hamlin’s name is associated with one of the biggest news stories of 2023 when the nation waited on a health update and prayed for a positive outcome given his health condition. According to Devon Markham of News Nation, Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills collapsed on the field mid-game after a defensive tackle. Following the play, Hamlin lost consciousness and received CPR from medical personnel for nine minutes. Most notably, Journalist Devon Markham shares assistant athletic trainer Denny Kellington used a defibrillator during the process and successfully resuscitated Hamlin as he lay lifeless on the field. He was immediately put into an ambulance and taken to a local hospital for treatment.

For days afterwards, fans held vigils waiting for updates. Hamlin transitioned from relying on a breathing tube to 100% breathing on his own and showing significant neurological recovery. He also began speaking and acknowledging teammates, family, and friends. Hamlin was eventually released from the hospital in Cincinnati, OH and transported to his home in Buffalo, NY.

As many were relieved to hear of Mr. Hamlin’s progress, the circumstances of his history raised questions about the severity of hits taken by NFL players. A review of history shows there have been numerous players to experience similar life-threatening injuries. Markham recorded the experience of Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier in December of 2017, when he suffered a spinal contusion that left him temporarily paralyzed. In December of 2011, Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox took a major hit that ended his career. Also, September 2007, Buffalo Bills tight end Kevin Everett was temporarily paralyzed after a hit which also ended his career.

Conversations have taken place about the disability pay received by players. Several people feel more of their contract should be paid out if they experience a life-threatening encounter. Fans may empathize with the players’ expending health and money, far exceeding the contributions made by the league to the players. As such, it is important for the public to advocate for change. NFL policies and perhaps federal legislations may be necessary to hold the NFL more responsible for the health problems of the current and former players. Specifically, the government should introduce a health policy to the NFL that regulates their assessment and treatment of player injuries. Also, part of the millions made by the league should be used to advocate for a health fund used for players with a diversity of NFL related injuries.

Furthermore, steps should be taken to reduce the power the league has over medical professionals, determinations, and overall outcomes. While fans enjoy the fun and excitement players provide, they must also fight to protect their favorite players from various health implications and unfair outcomes. Lastly, fans of the league can flood the #NFL on all social media platforms to express their grievances, concerns, and suggestions. This would increase awareness that the public has expectations that should be addressed along with the players.

References

Hamlin, Damar. (2023). Damar Hamlin 3 on Instagram “GAMETIME @buffalobills

LFG!!!!!!”. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/d.ham3/?hl=en

Markham, Devan. (2023). The most notable life-threatening injuries in the NFL. News Nation. https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/sports/nfl-notable-life-threatening-injuries/

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Health(y) Positive Prevention Promotion

What’s the Tea on Green Tea?

By LaTangellia Walker on

By Jaelyn Copeland|UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and has been used as medicine for thousands of years in China and Japan. Although many varieties of tea come from this plant, green tea is considered the healthiest because of how it is processed (Curtis, 2023). Green tea is also promoted as a beverage or nutritional supplement for improving mental clarity, reducing headaches and gastrointestinal issues, and it is awesome for promoting weight loss. Thanks to its many benefits, it has become more popular and is consumed worldwide.

Green tea contains caffeine, a stimulant that boosts mood, energy levels, reaction time, and memory. Along with caffeine, green tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that positively affects mood, lowers stress, and boosts dopamine and serotonin production. Caffeine and L-theanine work together to improve mood, reaction time, attention, and memory (Curtis, 2023)

Many components of Green Tea, particularly EGCG, gets a lot of attention for its potential positive impact on health. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a unique plant compound that is known to help reduce inflammation, aid in weight loss, prevent heart disease, brain disease, and even cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also approved a topical ointment, sinecatechins (brand name Veregen), which includes extracted components of green tea leaves and is used for the treatment of genital warts.

Green tea has many health benefits and is generally safe in moderation. Most side effects are related to its caffeine content, and consumers are encouraged to not drink more than 8 cups a day.

Now that’s some good Tea!

Curtis, L. (n.d.). The health benefits of Green Tea. Verywell Health. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/green-tea-benefits-6951098

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Green tea. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Retrieved December 6, 2022, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/green-tea

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Positive Prevention Promotion

Ashwagandha: A Natural Way to Fight Depression or Anxiety

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By Jaelyn Copeland | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Depression and Anxiety are fairly common mental health issues among individuals across the world. According to the CDC, depression occurs when a sad mood lasts for a long time, and interferes with normal, everyday functioning (CDC, 2022). Symptoms of Depression include:

  • Feeling sad or anxious often or all the time
  • Not wanting to do activities that used to be fun
  • Feeling irritable‚ easily frustrated‚ or restless
  • Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Waking up too early or sleeping too much
  • Eating more or less than usual or having no appetite
  • Experiencing aches, pains, headaches, or stomach problems that do not improve with treatment
  • Having trouble concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions
  • Feeling tired‚ even after sleeping well
  • Feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless
  • Thinking about suicide or hurting yourself

Fortunately there are existing supplements that can help treat symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha is part of an evergreen plant that grows in both Asia and Africa. The plant is known to have health benefits when ingested as teas, powders, tinctures and supplements, or in raw form (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012). Ashwagandha is a classic example of a adaptogen, a plant or mushroom used for a variety of stress-related ailments such as anxiety, sleeplessness, aging and well-being. Ashwagandha also aids the body’s ability to withstand both physical and mental stress (Kumar et al., 2021).

Here are 7 benefits of using Ashwaganda:

  • Relieves stress and anxiety 
  • Lowers blood sugar and fat
  • Increases muscular strength 
  • Improves sexual function in women
  • Boosts fertility and testosterone levels in men
  • Sharpens focus and memory 
  • Supports heart health

Ashwagandha is usually consumed by using supplement capsules or in tablet, powder, tincture and tea form (Forbes, 2023). For more creativity, you can add the raw form of Ashwagandha into nut butters, granola, smoothies and overnight oats with low exposure to high heat. Have you tried Ashwagandha? What has been your experience? Feel free to leave a comment and join us on Facebook.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, September 14). Mental health conditions: Depression and anxiety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 6, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html

Forbes Magazine. (2023, February 1). 7 science-backed health benefits of ashwagandha. Forbes. Retrieved February 6, 2023, from https://www.forbes.com/health/body/ashwagandha-benefits/

Kumar S, Bouic PJ, Rosenkranz B. Investigation of CYP2B6, 3A4 and ß-esterase interactions of Withania somnifera (L.) dunal in human liver microsomes and HepG2 cells. J Ethnopharmacol. 2021;270:113766.

Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian journal of psychological medicine, 34(3), 255–262. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022.

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Prevention Promotion Protection

R&B Singer Donell Jones Survives Crash after Falling Asleep While Driving

By LaTangellia Walker on

By Tan Walker | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

R&B singer, Donell Jones, considers himself a lucky man after he fell asleep behind the wheel of his Mercedes Benz and crashed into a ditch. The shocking incident took place on January 9th of 2023. 

Fortunately, the 49 year old did not suffer any major injuries, but he stated that this scary experience “taught him a valuable lesson” about driving while tired. Jones made an Instagram post that reads: “I fell asleep while driving yesterday and ended up in a ditch. I walk away with no injuries but I learned a valuable lesson, that if you’re tired just park the car cause this could’ve been bad.”

He also added that he was truly protected and continuously thanks God for wrapping his arms around him during the crash. He states “My love and loyalty is to you.”

Along with this gracious caption, Donell Jones shared a series of photos showing the aftermath of the accident. His silver Mercedes Benz was barricaded in a ditch by the side of the road.

Driving while tired or sleepy is just as dangerous as drunk driving. It decreases your attentiveness and alertness while on the road, it slows down your reaction time, and it affects your ability to make good decisions. In 2017, drowsy driving was involved in 91,000 crashes, resulting in 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths (CDC, 2023). 

Warning signs of drowsy driving include: 

  • Yawning or blinking frequently.
  • Trouble remembering the past few miles driven.
  • Missing your exit.
  • Drifting from your lane.
  • Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road.

Have you experienced negative impacts of driving while tired? Share with us in the comments or on social media. Likewise, share any positive or healthy tips that you do to drive responsibly. Remember to always get enough sleep before taking the wheel, and drive alert to stay unhurt!

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, November 21). Drowsy driving: Asleep at the wheel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved January 17, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/features/drowsy-driving.html

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Prevention

5 Healthy Tips to Prevent Diabetes

By LaTangellia Walker on

By Terrie Johnson | Community Health & Human Services Intern

Everyone desires the delicacies of life. Eating unlimited sweets, salt, and fatty foods and lounging around without consequences seems to be the American dream! However, in reality, the lack of physical activity and healthy foods intake hardly worth the effort. That desire will slowly deteriorate once people begin to understand that the unhealthy habits they love the most, don’t really love them back.

Major components such as fat, salt, and sugar can lead to health complications. The most common health complications are diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Diabetes, specifically Type 2, is a rapidly growing global health issue. The augmented prevalence of diabetes mellitus vis-à-vis the increased obesity incidence mirrors the greater interconnectedness between diabetes and weight gain. Emphatically, obesity is associated with increased susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases (Halali et al., 2022). In 2014, more than 422 million people globally tested positive for diabetes (Halali et al., 2022). Untreated diabetes can potentially cause severe harm to an individual’s health, including the risk of kidney failure, heart attack, lower limb amputation, or death at advanced stages.

 Although these are some of the most common complications, they are highly preventable. Diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure can be treated through simple lifestyle modifications that discourage sedentariness. Understanding that these health issues are manageable through simple routine adjustments is very powerful. Implementing physical activity, healthy eating habits and behavioral change can help reduce the risk of diabetes and other health issues, ultimately guaranteeing long-term positive health outcomes for everyone.

Here are more quick tips to help prevent diabetes:

  • Stock up on healthy foods, particularly fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are high i. Try to minimize processed foods high in sugar, salt, and fat.
  • Minimize consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (sodas, juice, etc.) and increase your water intake.
  • Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
  • Lose extra weight. Losing weight reduces the risk for diabetes
  • Quit smoking. Smoking can contribute to insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

References

Halali, F., Lapveteläinen, A., Aittola, K., Männikkö, R., Tilles-Tirkkonen, T., Järvelä-Reijonen, E., … & Karhunen, L. (2022). Associations between weight loss history and factors related to type 2 diabetes risk in the Stop Diabetes study. International Journal of Obesity, 46(5), 935-942. https://doi.org/s41366-021-01061-4

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Prevention

Best Remedies for Leg Cramps

By LaTangellia Walker on

By Terrie Johnson | Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Anyone who has experienced leg cramps can attest that it is not the most pleasant experience. Leg cramps occur when muscles involuntarily contract, and usually last for a short period of time. The most common area for these to occur is in the calf muscles, but the feeling can also occur in your feet. Leg cramps are caused by overusing or straining muscles (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2021). This can be a result of excess running, walking, weightlifting, prolonged standing, or strenuous exercises. Dehydration and aging can also cause leg cramps due to insufficient electrolytes in the body and decreased muscle mass. Dehydration reduces components such as Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium, which are vital minerals for muscle function.

Although most cases of leg cramps don’t indicate a worrisome underlying condition, people who are 65 years and older are at greater risk for them. Cramps may be related to alcoholism, hypothyroidism, or diabetes (Carey, 2019). You should see a doctor if the frequency of your cramps worsens. Meanwhile, there are many remedies you can try to help reduce leg cramps:

Stretching- Relax the cramping muscle. Stop any activity that may have induced the cramp and lightly stretch the muscle, gently holding the stretch.

Magnesium- try adding more magnesium to your diet. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of magnesium.

Heat- Try applying this old-school remedy to a wet cloth and pressing it onto a cramped muscle, use a heating pad, or add some Epsom salt to hot bath for a soak.

Hydration- Staying hydrated may take a little linger to ease your pain, but once you’ve had enough water or a sports drink with electrolytes, you could prevent another cramp.

Moving- Walking around can also help ease leg cramps by sending signals to the muscle that it needs to relax after it contracts.

References

Carey, E. (2019, March 8). How to stop leg cramps: Treatment and remedies for relief. Healthline. Retrieved January 3, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-relief/how-to-stop-leg-muscle-cramps#_noHeaderPrefixedContent

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Muscle Cramp. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved on 17 December 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-cramp/symptoms-causes/syc-20350820

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