Category Archives: Health

Simple Steps to Good Health – June 2016, Food Tips

by Elisabeth Mondragon

Start Your Day off Right

One of the best ways to start your day with energy and nutrition is with a healthy breakfast. We know it can be easy to just grab a donut on your way to work or simply skip this meal altogether, but both can grind your weight loss plan to a quick halt. Eating breakfast helps to fuel your body and brain so that you are ready to take on your day. Here are some quick and delicious choices for your mornings that will get you started on a healthy note.

Oatmeal
Oats contain beta-glucan, which is a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to help lower cholesterol when eaten on a regular basis. Give steel-cut oats a try. They are the least processed of all oats.

It may not be instant oatmeal, but steel-cut oats only take about 15 minutes to cook, and you get more fiber with each bite. Eating healthy high-fiber foods can help you feel full, so you can resist eating more food than you need. If you can, try to avoid flavored instant oatmeal which is more processed and contains added sugars. Instead, top off your plain oatmeal with flavorful extras like fruit, a few teaspoons of honey or a few nuts. Sneak in some added protein by preparing your oats with one cup of nonfat milk.

Greek yogurt
Starting your day with protein is a must. Protein helps to keep you full throughout the morning so that you’re not reaching for that sugary snack in between breakfast and lunch. Greek yogurt has a lot of bone-building calcium and nearly twice the amount of protein as regular yogurt. It’s an easy on-the-go breakfast, and you can top it off with things like your favorite high-fiber cereal, 1Tbsp sugar-free jelly, 2 tsps ground flaxseed or fruit for a tasty, satisfying meal.

Protein-packed fruit smoothie
If you don’t have time to sit down and eat breakfast, try whipping up this 250 calorie fruit smoothie. Blend together 1 cup strawberries, 1 scoop protein powder, crushed ice and 6 oz nonfat yogurt and you’ve got yourself a healthy and flavorful on-the-go breakfast. Plus, you’ve just crossed one milk and one of your daily fruit servings off of your list.

Now that you have a few ideas to get you started, try incorporating these into your morning meal on a regular basis. Think of breakfast not only as a chance to refuel your body after a night of sleep, but also a chance to take on your day in a positive way.

Ventura Family YMCA providing scholarships for swim instruction and water safety to underserved community children

As part of the Y’s commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, the Ventura Family YMCA will provide scholarships for swim instruction and water safety to children from underserved communities in and around Ventura.

In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity by swimming. To learn how to qualify for financial assistance, please visit ciymca.org/ventura. For further information please contact Brie Young at [email protected] or 642.2131 ext. 19.

Community Memorial Health System helping the health of all

Women of all ages are invited to attend a free Aging for Women Symposium on Saturday, June 18, designed to be an educational resource for women, families, caregivers and those with concerns about aging women’s health. The event is part of the Community Memorial Health System 2016 Speaker Series, and provides a range of physician and leading expert presenters specializing in women’s healthcare.

The Aging for Women’s Health Symposium will be held at the Ventura Beach Marriott, 2055 E. Harbor Blvd. beginning at 7:30 AM with a light breakfast and exhibitors and presentations begin at 8 AM until 12 noon. Dr. Charles Pankratz specializing in Internal Medicine will moderate and present opening remarks at the event, along with a variety of presenters providing information on the latest research, procedures, treatment and support available to aging women:

Registered attendees will also be able to visit information exhibit tables at 7:30 AM and again at the break, providing information on elder care living, senior services and programs from local organizations.

Space is limited and reservations are required. For more information and to make a reservations visit www.cmhshealth.org/rsvp or call Brown Paper Tickets 800-838-3006.

Find out if you are at risk of a stroke by attending a free Mini Stroke Screening first Fridays each month from 11am-1pm, by appointment only. For stroke survivors, family and caregivers a Stroke Support Group meets second Wednesdays each month 2-3:15 pm. To take a Stroke Risk Assessment visit www.cmhshealth.org/myhealth or call CMHS’s HealthAware office 667-2818.

The 12th Annual NAMI Ventura County Walk held on Saturday April 30

The 12th Annual NAMI Ventura County Walk benefitting the National Alliance on Mental Illness was held on Saturday April 30 at the Ventura Promenade. The 5k walk began at 10:30 am. The Walk is a tradition that provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the facts of mental illness, to erase the stigma associated with mental illness, and to raise funds so that NAMI Ventura County can continue to offer all of their programs and services at no cost to persons who can be helped by those services. It gives everyone a chance to show their support for all of the efforts put forth by NAMI Ventura County.

Celebrating “Farm to School”

By Alise Echele, RDN
Healthy Schools Project Coordinator
Food and Nutrition Services, Ventura Unified School District (VUSD)

Locally grown broccoli, purple cauliflower, and cheddar orange cauliflower flooded 250 classrooms in thirteen Ventura Unified schools this March. As 4,300 students used their five senses to explore these colorful brassica plants, produced by Deardorff Family Farm, hands were enthusiastically raised to share creative adjectives that described their tasting experiences. These monthly tasting lessons support youth as they develop into adventurous eaters of good, whole food. The journey of this food from farm to school is highlighted along with the hard work and dedication from farmers and harvesters, who labor on the farms in order to feed us. Alice Waters, chef and restaurateur, eloquently reminds us, “Food is precious—and so are the people who produce it.” This cultivation of gratitude is woven into each tasting lesson, which extends from the soil to the farm team to the school foodservice staff, who prepare these fresh fruits and vegetables daily for the Farm to School salad bars.

Harvest of the Month is one of many program components coordinated by VUSD’s Healthy Schools Project. Housed within the district’s Food and Nutrition Services department, this education arm of the Farm to School program seeks to support students in developing a healthy relationship with locally grown and sustainably raised food through hands-on, standards-aligned nutrition, cooking, agricultural, and garden-based education. Nutrition Specialists provide resources, technical assistance, and professional development to support educators in implementing this Common Core-aligned education in school and after-school programs.

Studies show that youth who are engaged in growing and preparing food become adventurous eaters and increase fruit and vegetable consumption. Our local students are no exception. Following the March broccoli tasting experience, students participated in hands-on cooking classes. The Great Greens Salad with Tangy Avocado Dressing was devoured by students after practicing their budding culinary skills. Students even harvested spring vegetables from their flourishing school gardens to incorporate into the recipe. This celebration of local food, farming, and the culinary arts didn’t end there. Each month the highlighted recipe and local produce item, along with the grower, is featured on lunch menus and Farm to School salad bars.

Research strongly links youth academic success with health. The mission at Ventura Unified is to educate all students in safe, healthy, and high performing schools. For the past fifteen years, the Healthy School Project has evolved into an instrumental program, among many others, that actively lives into this mission, so that youth can grow into healthy, active, and successful adults.

During the 11^th annual Summerfest, a free healthy living event, VUSD looks forward to celebrating all of the programs, community partner organizations, and people who support healthy school and community environments. VUSD is a dedicated Summerfest partner along with the Ventura Education Partnership and the City of Ventura. Mark your calendar for May 21 and be sure to stop by the Demonstration Garden to meet Healthy Schools Project educators, taste delicious farm fresh produce, and tour the outdoor garden classroom. For more information about the VUSD Healthy Schools Project, contact 641-5000 ext. 1310.

CMHS to hold free Ethics In Healthcare Event

Communicating end of life decisions will be the focus of a free Ethics in Healthcare event Community Memorial Health System is holding as part of its 2016 Speakers Series on Thursday, April 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Museum of Ventura County.

Jim Hornstein, M.D., CMHS Bioethics Chair will moderate the latest Ethics in Healthcare event being held in recognition of National Healthcare Decision Day.

The event, entitled “Goodbye to ‘Death Panels,’ Hello Patient Care – A Must Event for Adults to Understand & Complete Their Own Living Wills” will feature presentations on “How to Complete an Advance Directive,” by Diana Jaquez, R.N., manager of CMHS Palliative Care, and a “Toast to Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment,” by Teri Helton, R.N., president of the Ventura County POLST Coalition. Each attendee will receive an advance directive and POLST form. Presenters will review the forms and help attendees complete them. A notary will be available.

Beginning at 4:30 p.m., attendees can arrived before presentations to visit exhibitors with information about elder living, services and programs from local hospice and home healthcare agencies, CMHS Social Services and Palliative Care Services, and representatives from Mission Home Health, Los Robles Homecare, Aegis Living of Ventura, Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice and Assisted Home Health Hospice.

Registration is free but reservations are required. To secure reservations visit www.cmhshealth.org/rsvp or call Brown Paper Tickets at 800-838-3006.

Ventura Family YMCA Urges Locals to Assess Type 2 Diabetes Risk

UCLA study finds nearly half of Ventura County adults have prediabetes; Few Ventura residents know they are at risk.

Following alarming data in a landmark study on diabetes published by UCLA this month and in conjunction with Diabetes Alert Day observed this year on March 22, the Ventura Family YMCA is encouraging residents of the Ventura area to learn their risks for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes and to take preventive steps to potentially reduce their chances of developing the disease.

Statistics from the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research study found that nearly half of California adults, including one out of every three young adults, have prediabetes. The research provides the first analysis and breakdown of California prediabetes rates by county, age and ethnicity.

In Ventura County, 47 percent of adults have prediabetes or undiagnosed diabetes. The county follows the state trend, with 32 percent of 18-39 year olds having prediabetes or undiagnosed diabetes. Six percent of Ventura County adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to the study.

The YMCA offers a simple test where individuals can assess their risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. The test can be accessed at YMCA.net/diabetes. Through this assessment, visitors can also learn how lifestyle choices and family history help determine the ultimate risk for developing the disease.

Several factors that could put a person at risk for type 2 diabetes include race, age, weight and activity level. If a person is at risk, a diabetes screening conducted by a physician can confirm a diabetes or prediabetes diagnosis.

Prediabetes is a condition in which a person’s blood glucose is elevated, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Only 10 percent of those with prediabetes know they have it, but with awareness and simple actions, people with prediabetes may prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when a person’s body does not make enough insulin to process the sugars consumed through food or when the body doesn’t effectively use the insulin the body does produce. Diabetes is a serious chronic condition that can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, loss of limbs, and blindness.

“The number of new people with prediabetes continues to rise and with that the importance of helping people understand what a prediabetes diagnosis means,” said Margo Byrne, Chief Operations Officer, Channel Islands YMCA. “Type 2 diabetes affects not just the person but entire families as well, but the good news is that it is possible to reverse course—simple lifestyle changes reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and the Y can help people make the necessary changes to improve health.”

Making some basic lifestyle changes that contribute to weight loss and healthy living can decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes. Among these are:

• Eat fruits and vegetables every day.

• Choose fish, lean meats and poultry without skin.

• Aim for whole grains with every meal.

• Be moderately active at least 30 minutes per day five days a week.

• Choose water to drink instead of beverages with added sugar.

• Speak to your doctor about your diabetes risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are overweight.

The Ventura Family YMCA offers members free fitness orientations, progressive group exercise classes, adult small group training classes, Aqua Zumba, a Teen Strength program, Senior Swimming, 3 on 3 basketball, racquetball, swimming classes and more. The Y offers a variety of exercise programs that can help prevent and eliminate type 2 diabetes. To learn more about the Ventura Family YMCA’s healthyliving programs, please visit ciymca.org/ventura, stop in at 3760 Telegraph Rd. Ventura, CA 93003, or call 805.642.2131.

Save the date for the Benefactors’ Ball

The Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation is holding its 43rd Benefactors’ Ball on Saturday, April 16, with proceeds benefitting the new Community Memorial Hospital.

At this event, three notable individuals will be recognized with the prestigious Cephas Bard Award, named after the founder of the first Community Memorial Hospital. Awardees to be recognized at this event are CMH Physician – Dr. Thomas F. Golden, CMH Retired Physician – Dr. William L. Hart, and Community Member of the Year – Barbara Meister.

Festivities begin at 6 p.m. at the Historic Mission San Buenaventura in O’Brien Hall. Dinner is set for 7 p.m., with dancing and music at 8 p.m. The evening is black tie optional. For information, tickets or sponsorship, visit www.benefactorsball.org, or call the foundation office at 667-2881.

The event represents an opportunity for residents to support community-based healthcare. The new Community Memorial Hospital will feature advanced medical technology, all private rooms and a considerably larger emergency department.

Public Health Investigating Cases of Cardiomyopathy in Ventura County

Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) has been investigating 12 patients with cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart begins to work with decreased efficiency, and is marked by fatigue and shortness of breath. The patients who have recently been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy in the county range in age from 19 to 78 years of age. Two people have died ‒ one in March, and another in mid-December. Public Health included the death that occurred in mid-December on review of that patient’s medical records earlier this week.

Lab tests so far have not identified a cause of the cardiomyopathy. Public Health is working closely with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to identify the cause of this disease.

There is absolutely no evidence linking this outbreak to either H1N1 or the Zika virus.

“We believe that whatever is causing this illness is not highly contagious because none of the contacts of any of these patients have developed serious illness,” said Dr. Levin. The Health Department is following all contacts of these cases and there has not been any hospital employee that cared for one of these patients, nor family member nor friend who has developed a serious illness.

If a member of the public experiences fatigue and shortness of breath, they are encouraged to see their primary care physician for evaluation.

Hyperthyroidism to be the focus of CMHS seminar

Hyperthyroidism, a condition in which one’s thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, will be the focus of a free seminar that Community Memorial Health System is holding on Tuesday, March 8. Debra Ouyang, M.D., a board-certified endocrinologist, will lead the discussion during the seminar to be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott, 600 E. Esplanade Drive in Oxnard.

Hyperthyroidism can be dangerous if undiagnosed or untreated. Although serious if ignored, most people respond well once diagnosed and treated. Dr. Ouyang will cover causes of hyperthyroidism and its symptoms, including sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat and anxiety. She also will discuss diagnosis using appropriate laboratory and imaging testing and effective treatment options available.

Registration is free but reservations are required. Visit cmhshealth.org/rsvp or call Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800/838-3006.

Future Speaker Series events include: Innovative Management & Treatment of Urinary and Defecatory Disorders on March 15 at CMH; Ethics in Healthcare – Goodbye “Death Panels”: Hello Patient Choice on April 21 at the Ventura Museum in Ventura; and the State of the Health System on May 5 at the Ventura Museum.

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