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IMPACT SPRING 2021

Postal Customer Local PRSRT STD US Postage Paid Permit No. 40 ECRWSS

Committed to helping you live better. LOCAL TRAINER SPIKE RICHARDS BRINGS

NEW TECHNOLOGY TO THE PINEBELT DR. SCOTT MARTIN AND DR. STONE THAMES OFFER

MORE THAN TEETH TO FAMILY DENTAL CARE PATIENTS

Baby Griffin

AN ANSWERED PRAYER FOR LAUREL COUPLE WITH HELP FROM SCRMC'S DESANTIS & WINSTEAD

DAVID HOUSTON'S STORY

contents

5 DAIRY ALTERNATIVES

21 STAYING HEALTHY

8 OVERCOMING INFERTILITY

22 HELLO SUNSHINE

10 RECIPE

24 ECZEMA

12 K-MOTION

26 FAMILY DENTAL CARE

15 PETS

29 RECIPE

16 DAVID HOUSTON

30 HEALTH & BEAUTY

Make 2021 a year of healing

So much more to offer Hope for the Griffins

New technology for eczema sufferers

Dairy-free alfredo sauce

Offers "more than teeth"

New technology in sports Homemade pet food options Battles Covid-19

SPRING

Signs of vitamin D deficiency

Spicy baked sweet potato chips Repair summer hair damage

IS HERE!

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contributing writers and photographers James Pugh | Linda Cranford | Kevan Lindsey

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IMPACT HEALTH

The information contained in Impact Health is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Impact Health for the advice of a health care professional. Buckley Newspapers, Inc., the publishers of Impact Health, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Impact Health and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements. Readers should not use the information in Impact Health for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem.

Find us online! www.impact601.com/magazines

THE LOW-DOWN ON

s e v i t a n r e t l A y r i Da

Visit a supermarket nowadays and you’re bound to see plenty of non-dairy milks and products competing with the real deal. Thanks to the popularity of plantbased nutrition, non-dairy products are finding a home in consumers’ shopping carts now more than ever. Almond, coconut and soy products continue to be popular dairy alternatives. However, new brands and products are continually competing in the nondairy segment, including pecan, quinoa, oatmeal, and flax-based products. This is a stark change from just a decade or so ago, when people with dairy allergies or dietary preferences had few non-dairy alternatives to choose from. There are several reasons why people may want an alternative to dairy, as milk, cheeses and yogurts aren’t suitable for everyone. A 2015 study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics found that cow’s milk allergies are the most common food allergies in young children. That allergy follows many people into adulthood. After allergies, the health and wellness resource Healthline says 75 percent of the world’s population is intolerant to lactose, the sugar found in milk.

See recipe on page10 for Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce.

Non-dairy alternatives make sense for many people, though it’s important to note there are some distinct differences between non-dairy and dairy products to consider. • Non-dairy products have fewer calories than dairy. • Non-dairy products contain a greater number of ingredients than dairy. • Non-dairy products have a higher water content than dairy. • There is added sugar in some non-dairy products. Those new to non-dairy items can experiment with the various products available. Here are some options to try. • Soy milk: This product is made from whole soybeans or soy protein isolate. It’s generally creamy and mild, and is the most similar product to cow’s milk in regard to nutrition. One cup of unsweetened soy milk contains 80–90 calories, 4–4.5 grams of fat, 7–9 grams of protein, and 4 grams of carbohydrates. • Almond milk: This beverage has a sweet, nutty flavor. It is low in calories, fat and carbohydrates. Almond milk is low in protein, which may deter some people. One cup of unsweetened almond milk contains 30–35 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 1 gram of protein, and 1–2 grams of carbohydrates.

• Coconut milk: Creamy like other non-dairy products, coconut milk must be avoided by people who are allergic to coconut. Coconut milk is low in carbohydrates, but can be high in MCTs, a type of saturated fat. One cup contains 45 calories, 4 grams of fat, no protein, and almost no carbohydrates. • Oat milk: New to the non-dairy arena, oat milk is made from a mixture of oats and water. Other ingredients may be added to produce a desirable texture. While high in protein and fiber, oat milk is also high in calories and carbohydrates compared to some other dairy alternatives. One cup contains 140–170 calories, 4.5–5 grams of fat, 2.5–5 grams of protein, and 19–29 grams of carbohydrates.

*Nutritional content provided by Pacific Foods® brand and Silk®.

IMPACT HEALTH

OVERCOMING INFERTILITY A story of hope for the Griffins

t some point in their lives, most women have had the thought of wanting to become a mother. Some women, unfortunately, have wanted to be a mom for as long as they can remember, but they have experienced issues with infertility. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million women in the United States have difficulty getting pregnant or staying pregnant. Locally, South Central Obstetrics and Gynecology’s physicians

IMPACT HEALTH

are working to aid women in our community who are experiencing infertility. OB-GYN Physicians, Robert DeSantis, MD, and Keith Winstead, DO, have a passion for helping couples overcome infertility. Dr. DeSantis states, “I have practiced for over 25 years and I have had the honor of delivering over 5,000 babies. The most enjoyable part of my job is helping a couple who are trying to become pregnant, get pregnant. Sometimes it can be simple. Sometimes

it can be difficult. The most important part is to sit down with the couple, work through their goals and set a plan to achieve fertility that works for everyone.” Local couple, Russ and Ann Griffin, remember the journey to become parents vividly. Ann states, “It is something that I have wanted for as long as I can remember. The infertility journey was long and lonely. When we moved to Laurel, I had been through many procedures and I was well along my infertility journey. We were to the point of meeting with a specialist in Jackson, because I felt like we exhausted all of our options. I learned about the services available at South Central Obstetrics and Gynecology and scheduled an appointment with Dr. DeSantis. Before I met with Dr. DeSantis, my hope was very diminished because I had previously met with so many doctors and had multiple procedures. We began to discuss options and he restored that hope for me.” Each patient’s medical history varies and there are various lifestyle conditions that can affect infertility. Dr. DeSantis explains, “There are different procedures we offer to aid in fertility. In Ann’s case, she experienced a history of endometriosis. After walking through all the options, we chose to attempt Intrauterine Insemination (commonly referred to as IUI).” IUI is an infertility treatment that is often called artificial insemination. In this procedure, the woman is injected with specially prepared sperm. Sometimes the woman is also treated with medicines that stimulate ovulation before IUI. “Patients who are candidates for IUI contact our office when they are ovulating, and we normally have a window of 24 to 48 hours in which we need to get that patient in to perform the procedure. Sometimes this time frame may fall on a weekend or a holiday, but having Dr. Winstead available Laurel provides more flexibility of being able to cover these patients when it is not on Monday through Friday during normal business hours.” Dr. Winstead explains IUI further. “IUI is an in-office procedure where no sedation is required. With appropriately

selected patients, intrauterine insemination gives a successful option. It is hard to put a definitive number on success rates. Most couples that are going through intrauterine insemination will successfully conceive within about three to six IUI cycles.” After working with Dr. DeSantis through the process, the Griffins’ received exciting news. Russ explains, “It was something that was nerve racking. Several months went by because it was a tricky process, but the team worked around our schedules. The day Ann found out she was pregnant with our son, Harry, we both felt joy, gratitude, some anxiety and some fears because of how long we had worked toward this goal. We were excited to share this special moment together and with the staff at South Central Obstetrics and Gynecology. To us, having care here locally was very convenient. It was comforting and helpful.” On May 12, 2020, Harry Griffin, son to Russ and Ann Griffin, was born in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ann recalls, “There was a time where we were not sure if Russ could be at the delivery with me. It was hard to think of, but Russ was able to be there. Because of the pandemic, family could not come to the hospital. We were unable to be surrounded by family and friends like a typical situation. It was a blessing because it provided so many special moments for all three of us. Our parents met Harry over FaceTime. The nurses and doctors at South Central Regional Medical Center could not have provided better care for us. We never felt like we were alone at any time. We had constant support and when we needed something, our needs were always met. We received excellent care.” Dr. DeSantis adds, “It’s an exciting day when a baby is born. During COVID-19, it dampens the excitement of not having all the family there, but we try to provide that source of comfort and excitement during these difficult times. In this profession, there are lots of highs and lows. There is nothing better than seeing a couple having their baby and running around having fun. One of the

things I cherish the most about living in a small town is getting to know the patients, know their families, and who they are. I love to see the parents and their children. It makes what we do as medical professionals fulfilling and makes it all worth it.” Dr. Winstead states, “to be able to see that come to light, I would be misleading if I said I did not get a certain degree of joy from the call of a patient who says, ‘I just took my pregnancy test and it is positive.’ That is a pretty remarkable call because they are always quick to call the office and express their gratitude and their excitement. We celebrate that excitement with them.” Ann closed by stating, “we are so blessed to have SCRMC here in Laurel. From beginning to end, having Harry at South Central was the best decision that we could have made. I would recommend this hospital to anyone who is on the journey to parenthood. The year of 2020

Robert A. DeSantis, MD

has been the subject of many jokes, but for our family, 2020 could not have been better. We longed for this gift for so long. Being a mom is everything and more than I dreamed it could be. It is the greatest joy of our lives. He fills a hole that was there for so long.” South Central Obstetrics and Gynecology is located at 1002 Jefferson Street, Suite 250, in Laurel. OB-GYNs on staff include: Rachel Cudworth, DO, Robert A. DeSantis, MD, Michael Weber, MD, Keith Winstead, DO and Stacey Nix, FNP. South Central Obstetrics & Gynecology provides complete healthcare for women, such as da Vinci Robotics Gynecological Surgery, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Infertility Treatment, Menopause Treatment and more. The clinic is accepting new patients. Medicare, Medicaid and Most Commercial Insurance plans are accepted. For an appointment, please call (601) 649-5421.

Keith Winstead, DO IMPACT HEALTH

recipe

e c u a S o d e r f l A DAIRY-FREE

Quick and easy recipe for homemade dairy-free alfredo sauce made with coconut & almond milk. We believe it's even better than store-bought and the best part is it's ready in minutes!

Ingredients: • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 4 tsp minced garlic (about 2 cloves) • 4 Tbsp flour (any kind) • 1 cup almond milk

• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk • 2 tsp nutritional yeast • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium stockpot, warm the oil 2. 3. 4.

and the garlic over low heat JUST until the garlic is fragrant. Increase the heat to medium and add the flour. Cook the flour, stirring often, for one minute. Slowly add the almond milk while whisking well, so that the almond milk and the flour make a thick paste. Add the remaining ingredients and keep the temperature at medium. Cook for 5-7 minutes.The sauce will thicken as it cooks. Serve with your favorite pasta or as desired.

Yield: 2 cups LC006

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QUALITY CARE... because we

Care so much. Chief Medical Officer

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BY JAMES PUGH

n sports, technology is the present and future.

Technology is altering sports in every way, from the way the public experiences it to the way athletes train and develop their skills. Local trainer Spike Richards is bringing some new technology to the Pinebelt. “K-MOTION is the bio mechanical analysis of the body in space during a swing,” says Spike. “It measures every angle, from your hip angles to your shoulder angles. There’s nothing that it doesn’t measure. It measures your entire swing.” According to the bio mechanical analysis program's website, "K-MOTION is the industry leader in wireless, human motion learning for the sports, fitness and medical (physical therapy) industries. The company's cloud-based products create a complete end-to-end training solution that empowers coaches to get athletes and patients better faster. The company combines industryleading sensor accuracy with never before seen software features in a highly reliable, easy to use product that helps coaches (and trainers), movement and fitness specialists, and physical therapists."

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Twenty-three Major League Baseball organizations currently use K-MOTION. Baseball isn’t the only sport K-MOTION is helping out. It’s also being used by 50 of the Top 100 coaches on Golf Magazines Top 100 Teachers list. It’s also used in sports such as softball. The bio mechanical analysis program has been featured in publications such as Sports Illustrated, the Golf Channel, ESPN, the Wall Street Journal, and Forbes Magazine. “We can use this with anyone,” says Spike. “With this analysis program, we can set up an individual analysis of every single player [that comes in] then hand those results to the great coaches we have in the area and let them do what they do to fix those problems [individually].” The naked eye can only see and process so much, and it can be challenging to pin-point mechanical flaws in a player's swing. K-MOTION allows a coach, or trainer, the ability to see problem areas through data and measurements dealing with speed, angles, and motions. "[Having flaws in someone's

mechanics] can make it impossible for a player to hit certain pitches," says Spike. "This program allows us to see why hitters struggle in certain areas." Spike uses the program's data to pin-point flaws in a players' swing and gives suggestions as to how the flaws can be corrected in real-time. “We’ll target what needs to be fixed first,” said Spike. “Sometimes it’s just body alignment; something I call low-hanging fruit. Find the easy stuff to fix and help that individual to become successful. Once a player sees progress, they’ll want to do more. "The problem with a normal lesson many times is that there is no measurable progress. A person just says I got better because I feel like I did. With this, you'll know for a fact that you got better and what is working specifically. If a certain drill is not working, we'll throw it out and find one that does. We don't want to waste any time. A player's career and time are expensive to them." Helping athletes train better and more efficient is why Spike got into the business.

"I went back to [college] and finished my bio mechanics degree," said Spike. "How do we allow players to be more efficient? I've always asked myself that question. I'm not trying to take away any coach or tell them how to do their jobs, but I love to analyze how the body moves in space from strength to speed. Everyone is looking for an advantage, and this is the top-tier program that Major League Baseball programs are using.

"We have packages we'll put kids on and show them all the areas [in their swing] that need work. There's no reason to come in for a hitting lesson that is not tailored to an individual." - Spike Richards Spike can be reached at spikesathletics@gmail.com or (601)498-2079 for consultation. “I only have 12-15 hours a week to devote to this because I’m also full time at South Central,” says Spike. ‘I love what I do there. I believe in their Sports Performance Program and the good that they’re doing there.”

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Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified therapists!

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pets

Fast Food for Pooches The convenience of premade pet foods has been compromised during the pandemic. Empty shelves have become the norm. The pandemic has disrupted supply chains, slowed down shipping times and caused other interruptions. For some pet parents, this may mean that they are unable to get the dog food they normally purchase before their existing supply runs out. Because of that uncertainty, it pays to learn which items in the pantry and refrigerator can serve as substitutes when commercial dog foods are unavailable. Even though many human foods are safe for dogs, keep in mind that routinely feeding dogs human foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies over time and should be used sparingly. Avoid excess sodium and fat, which can cause excessive thirst and stomach upset, and opt for lean proteins and complex carbohydrates. If you’re using canned meats, rinse off the product to get rid of excess sodium. One of the easiest meals to put together on the spot is chicken and rice. In fact, when dogs are experiencing stomach issues, vets often suggest a temporary diet of bland, boiled chicken and rice. Lean beef or rotisserie chicken with the skin and bones removed are additional options. Many dogs like salmon or other fish as well. If there’s no rice, oats or plain cooked potatoes can suffice. Many vegetables, like carrots, corn and peas, also are safe for dogs. Eggs can be a great nutritional source when other proteins are unavailable.

• Greasy, processed, salty foods • Deli meats that are high in sodium • Cocoa and chocolate • Grapes and raisins • Onions • Garlic • Bacon • Milk • Spicy foods • Small bones • Coffee • Avocado • Macadamia nuts Should a dog eat something it shouldn’t, vomiting is likely to occur. Lethargy and diarrhea also may indicate a dog ate something it should not eat. Those who are unsure of what to make for an emergency meal for their dogs should speak with a vet about foods that are safe to serve. IMPACT HEALTH

cover story

DAVID HOUSTON counts his blessings after a long battle with

Covid-19 BY: KEVAN LINDSEY

ver the past 12 months, the COVID-19 virus has changed the way Americans live their daily lives. While some have had little to no side effects from the virus, others have not been as fortunate. David Houston is one of those who was not as fortunate. The Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief spent a grueling 45 days in the hospital, and is still undergoing physical therapy to try and regain a bit of normalcy. Still, with all of the trials, Houston has been blessed in many ways by friends, neighbors, and strangers near and far. “I work as the fire chief at the Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department. I’m also an EMT and work in Choctaw County. I’ve been an EMT for 44 years, been in the fire department for almost 22 years, and I’ve been fire chief for almost six years. I was an assistant chief before that, and I worked my way up in the ranks through the fire department,” said Houston. “Around Thanksgiving, I started developing a cough. On December 1, I went to the health department and tested positive for COVID. The next day, I had to go to the ER and they diagnosed me with pneumonia, so they put me in the hospital. Four days later, they had to put me in the ICU because I had complete pneumonia, and I went on the ventilator,” stated Houston. Things quickly went south for the fire chief, as he was on the ventilator for several more days. “A few days later I woke up and they took the tube out, but it didn’t go well, and they had to put it back in, and I went back to sleep. When I woke up, I thought that I had only been there for a day or two, but they told me I had been on a vent for 12 days. The drugs they had me on had me confused,” Houston continued, “I didn’t even know that I was in South Central anymore. In my mind, before I could even talk to anyone or ask them, I thought I was in Sunflower County, Mississippi, at a hospital up there where I used to work.” Houston described his days in ICU as a blur, not being able to remember much that went on during that time. “Even when they told me that fire departments had been outside having a prayer vigil for me, I thought it was fire departments up there [Sunflower County]. Finally, I asked someone when did South Central take the hospital over because I saw the name on the shirts of the

IMPACT HEALTH

nurses. They told me that I had been here the whole time. I thought they were kidding. My youngest daughter lives in Texas, and the first thing I remember seeing was her. I didn’t understand how she got here so quickly because I thought it was the next day, not 12 days later,” said Houston. “They took the tube out on the 12th day and sent me up to the third floor the COVID floor - and there was just a little fan in the window where you could stare out of to see where you were. I was having anxiety attacks from the medicine. I couldn’t see anyone but the nurses, but they were so busy they weren’t able to come a lot. Physical therapy people would come by once a day and work my legs and arms, but they had many patients to see too. I had to call my wife sometimes and I was almost in a panic just to be able to see her,” explained Houston, when describing the experience.

“We were finally able to get me on the second floor where my family was able to see me. At least one of them, anyway,” said Houston. “My wife was able to finally see me and we were able to smuggle in some food [laughs Houston]. I could actually eat at this point. She stayed with me all day, then she would go home. I stayed there several more days, but the physical therapist came in because I could not walk. They stood me up beside the bed, and I walked about six inches and fell back on the bed. I had lost over 25lbs.” Still, Houston showed resilience and took matters into his own hands to get back on his feet. Since it was during Christmas, and the hospital already short-staffed, he called and arranged a transfer to a rehab center. A familiar place was able to get him a spot, the Choctaw County Medical Center, and he was able to continue progressing forward.

“My boss sent my own ambulance that I worked on to come to get me,” chuckled Houston. “I knew everyone up there and they treated me like a king. Anything I needed, the nurses would go get it for me. They even went to Dollar General and got me peanut butter and jelly.” Forty-five days later, Houston was able to go home. Because he was still weak, the fire department sent one of their Tahoes to pick him up so he could get in the vehicle easier. “It was the best feeling in the world to get home, sit in my recliner, and eat some of my wife’s cooking,” laughed Houston. Houston was able to leave the wheelchair, then the walker to a cane, and now does not need any support for the most part, along with finally being off of oxygen. He is also grateful for the community who reached out and has supported he and

his family throughout the process. “At one point, we had over 10,000 people following my story and praying for me on the fire department’s Facebook page. That’s not even counting people at my church, the local community, and firefighters from the state and neighboring states who were doing the same. The company where I work, the owner, contacted my wife asking what we needed. My daughter set up a GoFundMe page, and the American Legion motorcycle riders did two bike rides which raised money. We had fire departments who wrote out checks for us, and Sandersville Fire Department did a boot drive for us that generated money.” “My wife saw someone in the grocery store and they handed her $50 and told her that they wanted to give,” said Houston. “The fire departments went in front of the hospital, lining up for me, and had prayer, and the day I came home they had a parade for me. They shut the road down and my wife drove me down the road where people spoke to me. There are so many people that I could thank. Those are just some of the things that I remember. I just want to continue to thank everyone for everything.” Houston understands that he is fortunate to have a community like this around him. He urged people to stay safe, understand that the virus is real, and count their blessings each day.

IMPACT HEALTH

Makeup tips for enhancing beauty Millions of women turn to cosmetics to help them put their best faces forward. The online people skills resource the Science of People indicates an estimated 44 percent of American women do not like to leave their homes without makeup. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science says that the primary reasons women use makeup are to camouflage and seduce. Women who are anxious and insecure may use makeup to appear less noticeable, while women who want to garner extra attention may use makeup to be more sociable and assertive. Some women may wear makeup to feel more confident and improve their appearance, both in their own eyes and in the eyes of others. Learning how to apply makeup so that it enhances beauty rather than covering up features can take practice. However, these tips can help get women on the right path.

• Consider lightening up. “No makeup” makeup is a growing trend. Barely there products can tweak features just enough to avoid looking washed out and brighten up skin where needed. Look for lighter formulations. • Smooth out texture. A plumping serum can help make mature skin more smooth to prepare the face for makeup application. In addition to a moisturizer, this can fill in fine lines and help the face appear more youthful and dewy. • Use a light hand. Rather than drowning the face in product, use certain items like concealer sparingly.You can always layer as you go. • Opt for cream-based makeup. Creambased foundations, blushes and highlighters can definitely make a difference in how the makeup wears on the face. People who tend to have dry skin or aging skin may

find that creamy formulas help hydrate the skin and make it more radiant, offers makeup artist Neil Scibelli. • Modify day to day. Makeup artist Kristofer Buckle suggests skipping a daily makeup ritual and using products depending on what is needed each day. Some days dark circles may need to be addressed, while other days redness may be the biggest issue. • Choose two makeup shades. Leave the store with two close foundation hues that can be blended accordingly depending on skin color at particular times of year. Skin color varies from season to season. Match foundation to the jawline down to the neck. Makeup trends and tips evolve depending on the look women desire. Right now a natural face is all the rage, with dewy radiant skin at the helm.

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601.651.6489 Hours: M-F 10 AM - 5:00 PM | SAT 10 AM - 4 PM

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Advantage One Insurance, Inc. Kenny Odom Agent

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LC002

Teeth.

SO MUCH MORE THAN

At Family Dental Care, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver the gentle compassionate care that you deserve. We work hard to make you feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere. We strive to develop lifelong relationships with our patients by combining the latest dental technology with a professional and compassionate staff.

The result is a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

“I always recommend Family Dental Care because I trust the doctors’ knowledge and abilities for my own family’s needs. The staff is top notch and the very best at each of their jobs. The most comfortable, thorough and painless dental experience you will find. The only dentist office you will look forward to visiting.” - Eric Rigdon

LC001

To find out more about why we’re “more than teeth” see page 26.

W. SCOTT MARTIN, D.M.D. STONE T. THAMES, D.M.D. 1615 Old Amy Rd. | Laurel, MS 39440

601.649.2010

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Protect your biggest investment. Life may throw us unexpected events, but you can rest easy with State Farm® Homeowners Insurance.

Mike L. Zachary Insurance Agency Inc. 443 Short 7th Avenue Laurel, MS Bus: 601-649-8211 Fax: 601-649-8668 mike.zachary.gp5n@statefarm.com Mike Zachary, Agent

Here to help life go right.® 20

IMPACT HEALTH

Staying Healthy

taying healthy is an important new year’s resolution, but most tend to bypass preventive exams and screenings that would keep them stronger longer. Just as infants and children need to follow an immunization timetable, adults should also regularly schedule certain medical tests. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start. The local experts at South Central Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine see patients who have had their lifestyle altered by chronic wounds which often have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity and circulatory problems. They suggest adding the following screenings, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other health organizations, to your 2021 calendar: • Diabetes tests should be taken if you are overweight, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, as well as every three years after age 45. • A panel created by the American Diabetes Association recommends that every diabetic over age 50 be tested for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) which narrows leg arteries and reduces blood flow.

Tips to Make 2021 a Year of Healing • People with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam every time they visit their doctor (at least four times a year). • Cholesterol checks should be taken every five years beginning at 20 years of age. Smokers, diabetic patients and those with a family history of heart disease especially should check their cholesterol on a regular basis. • Colo-rectal cancer screenings should begin at age 50. • Women should begin biennial mammogram screenings at the age of 50, and younger women should ask their health care provider if a mammogram is right for them, based on age, family history, overall health and personal concerns. • Women should have a bone density test for osteoporosis at age 65. • Men should discuss having a prostate test and exam with their doctors by age 50 and by age 45 for those at high risk for prostate cancer such as African Americans and those with a family history. • Men and women should have their physician check for skin abnormalities when receiving a physical examination. • If you wear glasses, have a family history of vision problems or have a disease that puts you at risk for eye disease, such as diabetes, have your eyes checked frequently. A healthy adult with no vision problems should have an eye exam every five to 10 years between 20 and 30 years of age, and every two to four years between 40 and 65 years of age. For more information about chronic wounds and if you might be at risk, contact the South Central Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Center at 1220 Jefferson Street in Laurel or call 601-426-4739.

435 NORTH MAGNOLIA STREET, SUITE B • DOWNTOWN LAUREL • 601.342.5188

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Hello

e n i h s Sun

Always sick Exhausted Bone density is declining Back pain Feeling down Muscles are sore Losing hair

BY: STEPHANIE WHITE

With the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, many are spending more time indoors than normal. While it is possible to spend time in the great outdoors and still avoid crowds and people in general, some just don't want to take the risk. Therefore, many are resorting to staying inside their homes as much as possible. The lack of outdoor activities and exposure to sunlight can lead to a rise in depression, anxiety and vitamin D deficiency. While many studies show that too much sunlight can be harmful to the body and cause skin cancer, other studies prove that in moderation, sunlight is very beneficial. Sunlight is not only the number one way to get vitamin D, but it also boosts mood and aids in fighting depression. One's mood is directly effected by the amount of serotonin in the brain. Higher levels of seretonin correlate with feelings of happiness, calmness and better mood. Studies have proven that serotonin levels in the brain are higher on bright sunny days than on cloudy days.

We all need a variety of nutrients to fuel our bodies and live our best lives, yet many of us fall short on a number of these nutrients. One of these nutrients, vitamin D, is of particular concern. According to a study published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition", levels of vitamin D in Americans has declined significantly over the last few decades. It is believed that over half of the nation's population is deficient in vitamin D. It's no wonder when people's daily environments and commutes limit their direct exposure to sunlight. Few foods contain vitamin

D and our bodies ability to make it declines with age. Not to mention, even when we are outdoors, we're urged to use sunscreen to protect our skin from damage, but in doing so we are also blocking our bodies own natural way of producing vitamin D. While sunlight therapy may not be something doctors prescribe, it's always a good idea to spend at least a few minutes a day soaking up some rays – time and weather permitting, of course. After doing so, you're sure to feel both revived and energized and your body will likely thank you too!

The best source for vitamin D is the sun, but foods such as liver, eggs and fatty fish also contain limited amounts of vitamin D. You could also take a vitamin D supplement, but be sure to have your levels checked by your doctor first.

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MAKE MANAGING

EASIER More than 30 million Americans, including nearly 10 million children, have eczema, the umbrella term for a group of noncontagious, inflammatory and painful skin conditions marked by an itchy, rashlike appearance. Because one of the most challenging aspects of eczema can be its unpredictability, the National Eczema Association (NEA), designed an app to help people and parents easily track what’s important and make sense of it. The app, called EczemaWise, aims to revolutionize how people living with the condition manage it with a faster, more efficient tracking system that helps uncover trends and makes preparing for doctors’ appointments easier. People with eczema tend to have an over reactive immune system that produces inflammation on the skin when triggered by a substance outside or inside the body, such as food or pollen, along with factors like stress and sleep. Experts say tracking and recording symptoms and possible triggers is key to managing the condition, but it can be time-consuming, and many people struggle to keep thorough notes in journals or on their smartphones.

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“One of the best things out there to help keep track of your child’s eczema is EczemaWise because it’s so easy to use,” said Aisha Bryant, mother of a 3-year-old with eczema. “Within a few days of using it, I was able to identify that tomato sauce was causing my daughter to flare.” The app can help track nine different disease and care factors, including: • Itch intensity on a scale of 0-10 • Pain on a scale of 0-10 • Skin symptoms using a body map to note affected areas • Stress on a scale of 0-10 • Sleep problems on a scale of 0-10 • Weather, which auto-populates using your location • Triggers, which track exposure to materials such as metals, chemicals, irritants and environmental allergies • Diet with tracking of water intake and foods • Treatments logged by time of day The free app, which is available for Android and iOS as well as a web app, is designed to identify trends and patterns so people and their doctors can better determine the most effective treatments. NEA recommends tracking a minimum of three

times each week – and ideally daily – though people can log as many or as few factors as they like. App users can also print their health data to share at doctors’ appointments. “Using EczemaWise will empower patients with eczema,” said dermatologist Eric L. Simpson, MD. “The app allows them to communicate a much broader story about their disease than we can typically capture in a 15-minute visit.”

For more information, visit EczemaWise.org.

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FAMILY DENTAL CARE offers

“More T han T eeth” BY LINDA CRANFORD

he gap between generations sometimes appears to be as wide as the Grand Canyon. One local dental office has found a way to blend experience with youth to create a healthy environment for staff and patients. No one looks forward to going to the dentist, but when patients visit the doctors and staff at Family Dental Care, their experience becomes “more than teeth” in several ways. In 1984, Dr. Scott Martin joined Dr. Bob Holifield in his practice. Two years later, in 1986, when Holifield left the practice to answer a calling to the mission field, Martin began his own practice. For the past 35 years, Martin has created relationships with both his staff and patients that make everyone feel like they are a part of a family from the moment they walk through the doors. Adding Dr. Stone Thames to the practice has ensured the continuation of that unique patient, staff, and doctor relationship.

“Experience is now combined with energy and enthusiasm,” exclaimed Martin referring to the addition of Thames. “Dr. Thames brings a fresh perspective to a mature practice,” said Katie Abercrombie, who has been with the practice for almost two years as office manager. “They’re the Dream Team.” The combination of younger staff and the more experienced is evident throughout the practice. Several staff members have been with Martin from the beginning, and others have joined in recent years. Martin said it’s been beautiful to watch his seasoned employees and

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the younger ones “work side by side, respecting and understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses.” Occasionally Martin and his staff will read books together and share what they’ve learned. They are presently reading “Relationships: A Mess Worth Making.” Martin talked of how in today’s society, it’s important for young and old to respect each other more than ever before, which can best be done by building relationships. “Relationships are worth the mess,” said Martin. “We try not to live autonomously but live as a unit, and that’s very much a healthy thing today,” exclaimed Martin. It is not unusual to walk by a room and see Martin or Thames praying with a patient or the entire staff joining in prayer for a coworker during their daily “huddle” (meeting). In the huddle, staff members iron out any issues, share praises and prayer requests, and pray over the list of patients scheduled for the day.

Dr. Scott Martin, D.M.D.

“It is wonderful to work for two doctors who put God and family first,” said Abercrombie. “I have heard both doctors say they take it to God first, then to their wife, and together they make decisions.” Abercrombie said when COVID hit, she had confidence in the decisions the doctors were making because she knew they were praying and honoring God before making their decisions. “It was a difficult time, but we didn’t struggle as so many did,” said Abercrombie adding, “God blessed us with that.” According to Abercrombie, they never waste time at the practice. When they didn’t see patients during COVID, or anytime there is downtime, the staff is studying and researching ways to serve their patients better. “What I like best about working at Family Dental Care is that everyone has a loving and serving heart,” said Kim Ewing, one of the four dental hygienists. We want to make sure our patients not only have the best oral care but also the best overall health. Dr. Martin and Dr. Thames treat all the staff like family. They are remarkably talented in dentistry and give our patients the best care ever. They love people with their whole hearts. That’s a practice I want to be a part of, and that is why I have been here for 26 years. We are truly a practice that is ‘More than teeth.’” Martin looks forward to stepping out of his leadership role at the practice and Thames stepping in. “I need to do more than teeth in a new way,” said Martin referring to his desire to spend more time and energy with his grandchildren. He and his wife have raised nine children and look forward to having the house filled with grandchildren and taking trips to visit them. Dr. Stone Thames, D.M.D.

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SWEET POTATOES Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Chips serves 1 • • • •

Sweet potatoes are incredibly rich in nutritional value, making them the perfect ingredient to supercharge your meal. Their added versatility makes them the ultimate meal base, side star or super snack! Here are a few super facts about sweet potatoes:

Rich in Vitamins

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Vitamin A for healthy eyes and skin, C for a healthy nerve and immune system and B6 to aid metabolism and form red blood cells.

Sweet potatoes are full of calcium and potassium, which means that by eating sweet potatoes you are aiding bone strength, helping muscle function and regulating heart function.

Two small or 1 large sweet potato 11/2 tbsp. olive oil 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper Himalayan salt

Preheat oven to 425. Peel sweet potatoes and thinly slice into 3/8" thick slices. If you have a mandoline use it. Place sweet potatoes in a bowl and add olive oil, cayenne pepper and salt to taste and mix well. Spread the slices out on a baking pan in a single layer. Bake about 12 minutes on each side, carefully checking to make sure the smaller or thinner pieces don't burn.

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With so many nutrients to offer, sweet potatoes are the perfect base for a 'supermeal' that is the perfect balance of both taste and nutrition!

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PREVENT AND REPAIR

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Summer is a great time to get outdoors, but summer sun can be hard on hair. Days spent diving through the waves at the beach, submerged in the backyard swimming pool or lying out in the hot sun can be particularly damaging to tresses.

hen summer draws to a close, often times both men and women find that their hair in need of a boost to repair the damage that has accumulated over the summer months. It is important to note that hair that is split or broken has experienced permanent damage and cannot be repaired entirely. There are products that can help smooth hair or make it appear thicker, but such products will not repair the hair shaft. The only option in such instances is to cut hair shorter (if possible) and wait for new, healthy hair to grow in, according to the experts at Good Housekeeping’s Beauty Lab.

A proactive approach to preventing hair damage all year long is a great way to avoid summer sun from wreaking havoc on hair. Here are some steps to take. • Speak with a stylist. Make an appointment with your stylist to discuss your hair quality and what can be done. He or she likely knows of products or techniques that can mitigate any existing damage and what may prevent future issues. Seek out expert advice if damage may have been the result of do-it-yourself chemical treatments. • Lay off of heat and chemicals. Let hair recover by skipping chemical treatments like coloring, perms, straightening, and other services for the time being. Limit coloring to simply touching up roots, if possible.

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Similarly, let hair air dry whenever you can, and keep heat-based styling tool use to a minimum. • Minimize yanking or pulling. Hair is delicate, especially when wet. Always use a gentle hand when drying, combing or brushing to reduce breakage. Use hair accessories that are covered in fabric so they do not damage tresses. • Opt for leave-in conditioners. Leave-in conditioners can replenish emollients stripped from the hair shaft, helping to repair damage caused by the sun, chemicals or heat damage. Conditioners can coat hair when wet and make it easier to untangle, leading to less damage. Again, speak with your stylist to gauge how frequently to use conditioners and other treatments. • Use a sunscreen for hair. Invest in products that help block UV damage on hair much in the way you use sunscreen to protect your skin. • Remove green hues. Metals present in swimming pool chemicals can leach into porous hair shafts and lead to a green tint that becomes more noticeable over time. A special swimmer’s shampoo can be used that contains chelating ingredients that break down and remove metals from your hair. Repairing hair and preventing future damage can take some effort, but it’s worth it for beautiful tresses.

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