Exercise and Yoga: A Breath of Fresh Air for Asthma Patients

Concierge Medicine, Preventative Health

For many years, people with asthma have been advised to tread carefully when considering exercise, given the widespread belief that physical exertion could exacerbate their condition. However, our concierge doctors in Jupiter want to share a recent groundbreaking study suggesting that certain forms of exercise might not only be safe but also beneficial for asthma sufferers.

A Shift in Paradigm

The conventional wisdom for the longest time was that exercise could trigger or intensify acute asthma attacks. But the latest study, published in the Annals of Medicine, might just change that narrative.

Researchers delved into the impacts of various forms of exercise on over 2,100 adults diagnosed with asthma. Surprisingly, results showed significant improvement in lung function across the board when compared to the traditional rehabilitation control group. The study examined five specific exercise modalities:

  • Breathing training
  • Aerobic training
  • Relaxation training
  • Yoga training
  • A combination of breathing and aerobic training.

Lead author, Associate Professor Shuangtao Xing of Henan Normal University in China, emphasized that “Breathing training combined with aerobic training, and yoga training, appear to be especially promising – pointing towards new, effective treatment methodologies.”

The Standout Performers

While all five exercise modalities showed promise, certain methods stood out in specific areas:

  • Relaxation Training: This mode most significantly improved Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1) levels.
  • Breathing combined with Aerobic Training: It led to the most notable enhancement in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) levels.
  • Yoga Training: Yoga particularly shone when it came to improving Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) levels.

The outcomes of this study send a powerful message to the healthcare community. It underscores the need to weave appropriate exercise regimens into asthma management strategies. However, a one-size-fits-all approach won’t suffice. As Professor Xing mentioned, “Tailoring interventions to individual physical and mental health conditions, taking into account exercise intensity, frequency, and duration, is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes.”

Caveats and Considerations

While these revelations are promising, they aren’t without limitations. The study faced challenges like inconsistencies in exercise frequency and intensity. Additionally, the demographic being primarily under 60 means the results may not translate directly to older asthma patients.

Nevertheless, the potential benefits of exercise for asthma patients are undeniably exciting, particularly given that roughly 1 in 13 Americans grapples with this respiratory condition, according to the CDC.

A Path Forward

It’s clear that larger, randomized controlled trials are the next step. These will offer a clearer understanding of the full range of benefits exercise might offer to individuals with asthma.

In the meantime, if you or someone you know has asthma and is considering integrating exercise into their management plan, always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the approach is tailored and safe.

In conclusion, the winds are changing for those with asthma. Exercise, once considered a potential adversary, might just become one of the most powerful allies in the fight against this chronic condition.

Understanding Different Heat Illnesses

, , , , , , , , , , Concierge Medicine, Environment, Health Basics, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Preventative Health

As the temperatures rise during the warmer months, many of us enjoy spending more time outdoors. However, with the increase in temperatures comes the potential risk of heat-related illnesses. Our primary care doctors in Jupiter want you to be informed about the different types of heat illnesses to prevent them and to provide proper care if someone is affected.

1. Heat Stroke

What it is: Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and is a medical emergency. It happens when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, and it can’t cool down.

Symptoms:

  • High body temperature (above 103°F)
  • Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
  • Fast, strong pulse
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Losing consciousness (passing out)

What to do: Call 911 immediately. While waiting for medical professionals, move the person to a cooler place and try to reduce their body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink.

2. Heat Exhaustion

What it is: Heat exhaustion is a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. If left untreated, it can escalate to heat stroke.

Symptoms:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Cold, pale, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fainting

What to do: Move to a cool place, loosen your clothes, put cool, wet clothes on your body or take a cool bath. If the person is fully conscious, they can sip water. If the symptoms worsen or last longer than an hour, seek medical attention.

3. Heat Cramps

What it is: Muscle spasms or pains that occur due to intense exercise in hot weather.

Symptoms:

  • Muscle cramps, usually in the legs or abdomen
  • Heavy sweating

What to do: Stop the activity and move to a cool place. Drink water or a sports drink. Wait for the cramps to go away before you do any more physical activity.

4. Heat Rash

What it is: Skin irritation from excessive sweating.

Symptoms:

  • Red clusters of small blisters that look like pimples on the skin
  • Usually appears on the neck, chest, groin, or elbow creases

What to do: Stay in a cool, dry place. Keep the rash dry and avoid using ointments or creams as they can keep the skin warm and moist, worsening the condition.

5. Dehydration

What it is: A lack of enough water in the body, often caused by too much sweating.

Symptoms:

  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Dark yellow urine
  • Not urinating much
  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Feeling tired
  • Dry skin

What to do: Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water. If dehydration is severe and accompanied by symptoms like confusion, rapid heartbeat, or rapid breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Prevention Tips

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as they can dehydrate you.
  • Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Use a wide-brimmed hat or an umbrella for shade.
  • Stay Cool: Avoid direct sunlight whenever possible, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Use fans or air conditioning to cool down.
  • Limit Outdoor Activities: Do strenuous activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

By understanding the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and taking preventive measures, you can safely enjoy the warm weather without the health risks. Always listen to your body, and if you or someone around you is showing signs of a heat illness, take it seriously and seek medical attention if needed.

Saliva Health Indicators: When to See a Doctor

Concierge Medicine, Health Basics, Preventative Health

Saliva, or spit as we colloquially know it, plays a vital role in not just digestion and oral health, but also in reflecting our overall health. Although it’s easy to overlook this clear liquid produced by the salivary glands, it can sometimes act as an early warning system for potential health issues.

Below, our primary care doctors in Jupiter share the different signs in your saliva that might indicate it’s time to visit a doctor:

1. Thick, Sticky, and Reduced Saliva:

When saliva feels thick and sticky, it can be an indication of dehydration. Saliva should ideally be clear and watery, so when consistency changes, it might be a sign that your body needs more hydration. Prolonged thick saliva, however, can hint at more severe conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, and should warrant a doctor’s visit.

2. Frequent Dry Mouth:

While occasional dryness can be due to stress or temporary dehydration, a persistent dry mouth can be a symptom of underlying issues. Conditions like diabetes, certain medications, or autoimmune diseases can lead to chronic dry mouth. If you find yourself constantly reaching for water, it’s essential to consult with a doctor.

3. Unpleasant Odor:

Bad breath occasionally happens to everyone, but if you notice an unpleasant or unusual odor consistently, even with good oral hygiene, it might be a sign of oral infections, respiratory infections, or even digestive system disorders.

4. Presence of Blood:

If you notice blood in your saliva, especially when you haven’t injured your mouth or gums, it can indicate gum disease, oral infections, or other health issues. It’s essential to seek medical advice promptly.

5. White Patches or Lumps:

White patches in the mouth or lumps in the cheek lining, often accompanied by changes in saliva, can be indicative of oral thrush or even precancerous lesions. Any such changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional immediately.

6. Saliva with an Unusual Taste:

A metallic, bitter, or unusual taste can indicate gum disease, medication side effects, or other systemic conditions. If this persists, it’s time for a check-up.

Tips to Maintain Healthy Saliva Production:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink adequate water throughout the day.
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum: It stimulates saliva production.
  • Incorporate Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Foods like apples can boost saliva.
  • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: They can cause mouth dryness.
  • Dental Check-ups: Regular visits help in the early detection of potential problems.

Your saliva can be a telltale sign of many underlying health conditions. While not every change indicates a serious health concern, staying informed and proactive is always wise. If you notice any persistent abnormalities in your saliva’s appearance or feel, it’s essential to seek medical guidance. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

The Top Benefits of Concierge Medicine for Those with Chronic Illness

Concierge Medicine, Disease

Living with a chronic illness can be an arduous journey, filled with numerous medical appointments, complex treatment plans, and the need for continuous support. In such circumstances, having a reliable and personalized healthcare experience becomes essential. Our concierge doctors in Jupiter have a healthcare model that offers tailored and overs comprehensive services to patients, focusing on quality, accessibility, and patient satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why individuals with chronic illnesses should consider embracing concierge medicine for a more fulfilling and manageable healthcare experience.

  1. Personalized and Holistic Approach: One of the primary advantages of concierge medicine is the personalized care it provides. Patients with chronic illnesses often require individualized treatment plans that consider their unique medical history, lifestyle, and preferences. Concierge medicine doctors have smaller patient loads, enabling them to devote more time and attention to each individual. This personalized approach allows them to better understand their patient’s needs, creating holistic treatment plans that address not only the medical condition but also the patient’s emotional and mental well-being.
  2. Accessibility and Availability: For those living with chronic illnesses, sudden health complications or concerns can arise at any time. With traditional healthcare models, getting an urgent appointment can be challenging, leading to unnecessary stress and delays in treatment. Concierge medicine, on the other hand, ensures enhanced accessibility and availability. Patients can often reach their concierge doctor 24/7, allowing them to receive timely medical advice and attention when they need it the most.
  3. Reduced Waiting Times: In conventional medical settings, long waiting times are a common frustration for patients. For individuals managing a chronic illness, these waiting times can be physically taxing and detrimental to their well-being. Concierge medicine practices limit the number of patients they accept, resulting in significantly reduced waiting times during appointments. Patients can expect to be seen promptly, without feeling rushed during their visits.
  4. Comprehensive Care Coordination: Chronic illnesses often require the expertise of various specialists and healthcare providers. Coordinating these different aspects of care can become cumbersome and disjointed in traditional healthcare settings. Concierge medicine doctors typically take on the role of care coordinator, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration between specialists and healthcare teams. This streamlined approach to care helps prevent medical errors, ensures efficient treatment plans, and provides patients with peace of mind.
  5. Preventive Medicine Emphasis: Preventing complications and managing symptoms are essential aspects of managing chronic illnesses effectively. Concierge medicine doctors place significant emphasis on preventive care, focusing on regular health screenings, lifestyle modifications, and personalized preventive measures. By proactively addressing health concerns, concierge medicine can help individuals with chronic illnesses lead healthier lives and minimize the risk of disease exacerbation.
  6. Extended Appointment Times: Time is a valuable resource in healthcare, and having more extended appointment times is a luxury that concierge medicine provides. Patients with chronic illnesses often require more time to discuss their concerns, understand treatment options, and build a trusting relationship with their doctor. With concierge medicine, patients can enjoy extended appointment durations, fostering open and transparent communication with their healthcare provider.

For those dealing with chronic illnesses, concierge medicine offers a refreshing alternative to traditional healthcare models. By prioritizing personalized care, accessibility, and comprehensive support, concierge medicine empowers patients to take charge of their health and well-being. Though the concept of concierge medicine may have been seen as exclusive in the past, its increasing popularity and availability are making it a viable option for many individuals. Ultimately, choosing concierge medicine can lead to a more fulfilling and manageable healthcare journey for those living with chronic illnesses.

Understanding Personalized Medicine: Empowering the Future of Healthcare

Concierge Medicine, Healthy Living, Lifestyle

Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new breakthroughs and developments making it more accessible, efficient, and precise. In this pursuit of advancement, personalized medicine has emerged as a game-changer. By tailoring healthcare to each patient’s unique needs, our concierge medical doctors in Jupiter are redefining our approach to disease prevention, detection, and treatment.

Personalized medicine, also known as precision medicine, takes into account the individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle of each person. This approach allows doctors to predict more accurately which treatment and prevention strategies for a particular disease will work for specific groups of people. It’s a shift away from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to medical care.

The Role of Genomics

One of the pillars of personalized medicine is genomics – the study of a person’s genes (the genome) and their interactions with each other and the person’s environment. With the increasing accessibility and affordability of genome sequencing, genomics is rapidly becoming an integral part of healthcare.

Through genomics, we can identify genetic predispositions to certain diseases and conditions. This information allows for early detection, even before any symptoms appear, and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. In some cases, understanding a person’s genetic makeup can help doctors select treatments that will be most effective and cause the least side effects, a practice known as pharmacogenomics.

Lifestyle and Environment

Genetics is just part of the story. Lifestyle and environmental factors also play a significant role in disease onset and progression. Personalized medicine aims to consider these aspects to provide optimal care. Diet, exercise habits, stress levels, and exposure to toxins – all of these influence our health.

By analyzing these factors alongside genetic information, personalized medicine can deliver comprehensive healthcare plans tailored to each individual. This may include recommendations for lifestyle adjustments to reduce disease risk or manage a chronic condition more effectively.

The Future is Here

Personalized medicine is not a distant, futuristic concept – it’s here now, and it’s reshaping healthcare as we know it. At MD 2.0 Concierge Medical Office, we fully embrace this approach. We’re committed to providing personalized, precision healthcare to our patients, combining the latest in genomic understanding with a comprehensive view of lifestyle and environmental factors.

Through advanced genetic testing, personalized risk assessments, and a proactive approach to health management, we provide healthcare that’s as unique as you are. We believe that personalized medicine is not just about treating disease, but about fostering wellness and health at every stage of life.

The potential of personalized medicine is vast, and it’s an exciting time to be part of the medical field. As we continue to explore and understand more about our complex genetic makeup and the factors that influence our health, we’ll be able to provide even more precise, effective, and personalized care to our patients.

By embracing personalized medicine, we’re not just reacting to disease, but proactively promoting health. We’re not just treating patients, but caring for individuals. And we believe that’s the future of healthcare.

Concierge Medicine vs. Traditional Healthcare: Understanding the Differences

, , Concierge Medicine

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, there are various models of care available to patients. Two such models that have gained popularity in recent years are concierge medicine and traditional healthcare. While both aim to provide quality healthcare services to individuals, they differ significantly in their approach, level of personalization, and cost structure. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of concierge medicine and traditional healthcare, highlighting their unique features and helping you understand the differences between the two.

Traditional Healthcare: The Familiar Model

Traditional healthcare, also known as fee-for-service or insurance-based healthcare, is the conventional approach that most people are accustomed to. It involves patients seeking care from primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who accept insurance plans. In this model, patients typically pay for their medical services through insurance coverage or out-of-pocket fees for uninsured services.

Here are some key features of traditional healthcare:

  • Insurance dependency: Traditional healthcare heavily relies on insurance plans, where patients pay premiums to insurance companies, who in turn cover a portion of the medical expenses. The insurance provider negotiates rates with healthcare providers, and patients often have co-pays, deductibles, and limitations on covered services.
  • Limited time with physicians: Due to the demands of a traditional healthcare practice, physicians often have a large number of patients, leading to shorter appointment times. This can result in patients feeling rushed during their visits and limited opportunities to discuss their health concerns thoroughly.
  • Referrals for specialist care: In traditional healthcare, patients often require referrals from their primary care physicians to consult specialists or undergo certain medical procedures. This can cause delays in accessing specialized care and can add additional administrative steps to the process.
  • Insurance-driven limitations: Traditional healthcare models are subject to insurance regulations, which can dictate the coverage and reimbursement rates for specific procedures, medications, and tests. This may sometimes restrict physicians’ treatment options or create administrative burdens.

Concierge Medicine: Personalized Care and Beyond

Concierge medicine, also known as boutique or retainer-based medicine, is a healthcare model that offers enhanced personalized care and direct access to physicians in exchange for an annual or monthly fee. This model aims to provide a higher level of attention, convenience, and comprehensive care to patients.

Here are some key features of concierge medicine:

  • Membership-based care: In concierge medicine, patients pay an annual or monthly membership fee to a primary care physician or a practice. This fee grants them access to a range of personalized services and benefits beyond what traditional healthcare offers.
  • Extended and unhurried appointments: Concierge medicine allows for longer appointment times, ensuring that patients have ample opportunity to discuss their health concerns and receive comprehensive care. This model emphasizes building strong doctor-patient relationships and prioritizes individualized attention.
  • Enhanced access and convenience: Concierge practices often provide same-day or next-day appointments, 24/7 access to physicians via phone or email, and reduced waiting times. This accessibility allows patients to receive timely medical advice and attention, promoting a higher level of convenience and peace of mind.
  • Preventive care and wellness focus: Concierge medicine emphasizes proactive and preventive care, focusing on wellness and disease prevention. Physicians have the freedom to develop personalized health plans, including tailored screenings, lifestyle counseling, and wellness programs.
  • Additional services and amenities: Depending on the concierge practice, patients may have access to additional services such as telemedicine consultations, in-depth health assessments, coordination of specialist care, personalized health coaching, and more.

Understanding the Differences

The primary differences between concierge medicine and traditional healthcare can be summarized as follows:

  • Payment structure: Traditional healthcare relies on insurance payments and out-of-pocket fees, while concierge medicine operates on a membership or retainer fee structure.
  • Level of access and time with physicians: Concierge medicine offers extended appointment times, enhanced access to physicians, and a greater emphasis on building strong doctor-patient relationships, whereas traditional healthcare often involves shorter appointment times and limited access to physicians.
  • Personalization and comprehensive care: Concierge medicine focuses on personalized care plans, preventive medicine, and comprehensive wellness services beyond what is typically offered in traditional healthcare settings.
  • Additional services and amenities: Concierge medicine practices often provide additional services and amenities, such as 24/7 physician access, telemedicine consultations, and coordination of specialist care, to enhance the patient experience.

It’s important to note that while concierge medicine offers numerous advantages, it may not be accessible or affordable for everyone due to its higher cost structure. Traditional healthcare, on the other hand, remains the more common and widely available model for most individuals.

In conclusion, concierge medicine and traditional healthcare represent two distinct approaches to delivering medical care. Our concierge doctors in Jupiter emphasize personalization, extended time with patients, and comprehensive services, while traditional healthcare operates within the framework of insurance-based models. Understanding the differences between these two models can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and preferences.

Improve Your Nutrition with these Simple Steps 

Concierge Medicine, Environment, Health Basics, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Nutrition, Preventative Health

Nutrition plays a crucial role in providing the necessary nutrients for our bodies to function properly. These essential nutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Carbohydrates provide energy, proteins are vital for tissue growth and repair, fats contribute to insulation and organ protection, while vitamins and minerals are required for various bodily functions, such as building strong bones, maintaining a healthy immune system, and supporting heart and brain health.

A balanced and healthy diet, consisting of a variety of foods from different food groups, ensures that our bodies receive all the necessary nutrients. Proper nutrition not only helps to maintain healthy body weight but also reduces the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. On the other hand, a poor diet lacking essential nutrients can lead to malnutrition and various health problems. Therefore, good nutrition is essential for overall health and well-being.

There are several ways to improve your nutrition, including:

  • Encouraging a balanced diet: Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for the body to function properly.
  • Ensuring adequate hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. This helps prevent dehydration, which can lead to health problems.
  • Providing smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of large meals, consider offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, especially for adults. This ensures they receive the necessary nutrients without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Offering nutrient-dense snacks: Opt for nutrient-dense snacks such as fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These snacks boost energy levels and provide essential nutrients.

In conclusion, in addition to prioritizing good nutrition, it is beneficial to seek guidance and support from primary care concierge doctors in Jupiter. These healthcare professionals specialize in personalized care and can offer valuable insights and recommendations tailored to individual needs. Collaborating with primary care doctors can further enhance one’s journey toward optimal nutrition and overall health. By combining their expertise with the principles of a balanced diet, hydration, and nutrient-dense snacks, individuals can receive comprehensive care that addresses their unique requirements and fosters long-term well-being. Together, the commitment to sound nutrition and the assistance of primary care concierge doctors empower patients to lead fulfilling and healthy lives.

Learn About this Devastating Mental Disease and How to Stay Ahead

, , , , Concierge Medicine, Health Basics, Healthy Living, Preventative Health

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain, causing progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes. It is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain.


June is recognized as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this devastating disease and to support those who are affected by it. Our concierge primary care doctors in Jupiter want to discuss some important facts about Alzheimer’s disease, as well as tips for maintaining brain health and reducing your risk of developing the disease.

Facts about Alzheimer’s disease:

  • Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 6 million people in the United States, and that number is expected to triple by 2060.
  • There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but early detection and intervention can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
  • Alzheimer’s disease is more common in older adults, but it can also affect younger people.
  • Genetics, lifestyle factors, and environmental factors may all play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • There are several different types of dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease is just one of them.

Tips for maintaining brain health:

  • Stay physically active: Regular exercise can help improve blood flow to the brain and promote the growth of new brain cells.
  • Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help support brain health.
  • Stay mentally active: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill.
  • Stay socially connected: Social interaction can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
  • Manage chronic health conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, so it’s important to manage these conditions through lifestyle changes and/or medication.

In conclusion, Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and devastating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. By raising awareness and taking steps to maintain brain health, we can work to reduce the impact of this disease and improve the quality of life for those affected by it.

Free-Range, Cage-Free, Organic: What Do Meat and Egg Labels Mean?

Concierge Medicine, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Nutrition

Our primary care concierge doctors in Jupiter know that these days our patients are interested in not just their own health, but also the health of the planet and the welfare of animals. So you try to shop in ways that consciously take all these factors into consideration.

But how do you know what the many bewildering grocery store labels mean? Let us help sort out some of the confusion.

Win-win Practices

According to Treehugger.com, so-called humane farming practices are no more sustainable than those of factory-farmed meats, because the animals raised for food require just as much food and water as those in concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). 

On the other hand, as the Cleveland Clinic points out, many of these CAFOs use more chemicals and fertilizers that pollute both the land and water sources, so they’re not as earth-friendly as traditional farming practices.

We’ve often extolled the health advantages of plant-based diets, however, so for now we’ll just say that the fewer meats and meat products you consume, the better for the planet (and your health).

The good thing about taking animal welfare into your buying decisions, however, is that you benefit, as well.

“The alternative to factory-farm meat—grass-fed meat—is not just better for the environment and better for the animals, but better for you, too,” says the Cleveland Clinic’s Functional Medicine Director Mark Hyman.

Grass-fed meat is so nutritionally superior to factor-farmed meat, he adds, that is practically a different food.

Animals raised without antibiotics are another health plus for humans because their rampant use can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making it harder to treat our own infections.

Sorting Out Labels

Unfortunately, knowing their customers are interested in more humanely raised foods, many manufacturers select labels that may tend to mislead buyers.

For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) does not regulate the term “pasture-raised.” “Humane” is also not an official term, so it can mean anything.

Consumer Reports (CR) says that the claim “no growth hormones” doesn’t mean the animal was not given antibiotics, or that hogs were not given a non-hormonal growth enhancer called ractopamine. On the other hand, beef labels that say “no hormones” are useful, because cattle can be raised with hormones; however, the USDA does not allow hormones to be used in poultry or pork.

In addition, labels that say “no growth-promoting antibiotics” can also be misleading, because they can still be given to “ensure animal health” or to prevent or control disease, CR says.

Likewise, “natural” simply means that meat has been minimally processed and doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients such as chemical preservatives, spices or sauces, or artificial coloring. As Insider reports, a “natural” egg is simply a real egg that came from a real hen.

Similarly, “farm fresh” means nothing: All meat and eggs come from farms, whether in bucolic outdoor settings or cramped cages on CAFOs. And “Omega-3” doesn’t tell you whether the eggs contain enough of this essential fatty acid.

What They Mean

The labels manufacturers use can be baffling, so here’s a quick guide to the most common meat and egg labels.

Meats

  • Grass-fed: This term gets a little tricky. The USDA’s definition means the meat must come from animals that have never been given grain and have access to pasture during the grazing season. According to CR, however, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) does not inspect these farms, and they can still be raised with antibiotics or hormones.
  • In addition, grass-fed cattle still may not have continuous access to pasture and may spend at least a part of their lives confined to a feedlot.
  • Organic: This is a more reliable term because the USDA organic seal indicates that the animal was given only organic feed, and was not given antibiotics or growth hormones. Even sick animals that were treated with antibiotics can no longer legally be labeled “organic.”
  • Pasture-raised: Again, this term can be misleading, because many meat producers will use it if their cows were only periodically allowed brief access to the outdoors.

Eggs

  • Cage-free: This means hens are not kept in cages, but that doesn’t mean they’re allowed outdoor access. In fact, they can still be raised in crowded (read: “overcrowded”) conditions indoors.
  • Free-range: This means the animals have at least some access to the outdoors, and aren’t caged, but they still may be raised primarily in crowded conditions.
  • Organic: These eggs come from hens that haven’t been fed grains grown with GMOs or synthetic pesticides. In addition, they aren’t raised in cages and must be given outdoor access. Again, though, “outdoor access” can still mean being confined in cramped conditions on tiny concrete porches.
  • Pasture-raised: Although there’s no standard definition for this term if the egg label contains either the Certified Humane or American Humane Certified pasture-raised labels, it means the hens must have access to a pasture with room for natural behaviors, such as pecking for bugs and seeds.

How to be Sure

As Vox reports, “For the grocery shopper buying animal products, the independent rating programs created by advocacy programs are the most important labels to look out for, since they actually have auditing systems built in to hold producers accountable.”

These certification labels include “GAP-Certified,” “Certified Humane,” and “Animal Welfare Approved.”

Finally, remember that what’s best for animal welfare is usually best for our health, as well.

Surprising Facts About Skin Cancer

, Concierge Medicine, Health Basics, Healthy Living, Preventative Health

You may think you already know everything about skin cancer. But because May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, our concierge primary care doctors in Jupiter want to share some facts about this often-deadly disease that you may not be aware of.

Brief Skin Cancer Recap

Let’s start with some facts about skin cancer you may already know:

  • Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, followed by squamous cell carcinoma. Both can easily be cured if caught in time, but they can be disfiguring and expensive to treat.
  • Malignant melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. It represents only about three percent of all skin cancers diagnosed but is responsible for the most deaths. That’s because of its tendency to spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs. But when diagnosed early, its five-year survival rate is 99 percent.
  • The most preventable cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds.
  • About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to UV radiation.
  • One bad sunburn in childhood doubles the risk for melanoma later in life. Having five or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma. A single indoor tanning session increases your risk of melanoma by 20 percent.
  • Even if it’s cool and cloudy, you still need protection, because ultraviolet (UV) light can penetrate clouds.

Odd Skin Cancer Facts

There are other facts about skin cancer that you might never have heard before.

1. For example, did you know that more men than women die of melanoma? The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that one reason may be that men know less than women about skin cancer and that they use sunscreen less than women do.

Men’s skin is also more prone to penetration by UV rays than women’s because they have thicker skin with less fat beneath. A man’s skin also contains more collagen and elastin, making men’s skin more likely to be damaged by UV light.

2. On the other hand, one study found a greater association between white wine consumption and a higher risk of melanoma in women. Those who drink a glass of white wine each day showed a 13 percent increased risk of invasive melanoma (meaning it’s gone deeper than the top layer of skin), while those who drank the most white wine had an increased risk of 50 percent or higher than those who don’t drink any alcohol.

3. UV rays can penetrate glass in windows, both at home and in the car. This helps explain why left-sided facial cancers, especially in men, are more common. It’s all about the position we drive in, with the left side of the body exposed to more UV light. Windshields are treated to block UV rays, but side, back and sunroof windows aren’t. Also, be aware that UV rays can not only penetrate glass, but also can “bounce” under beach umbrellas and reflect off of concrete surfaces.

4. It’s extremely rare for a mole to transform into a melanoma, according to Dr. Ashfaq Marghoob, a dermatologist with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. While melanoma can develop in a preexisting mole, nearly 70 percent do not. At the same time, the presence of many moles can identify those who are at an increased risk for developing melanoma somewhere else on their skin.

That’s why it’s important to apply sunscreen to all parts of the body.

“Some people use sunblock only where they have moles because they think the moles themselves are dangerous,” he says.

5. Caffeine may protect against skin cancer. One study found that women who drank more than three cups of coffee daily were 21 percent less likely to develop basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer. Men were 10 percent less likely to develop BCC.

6. Melanomas are not necessarily brown. Some have no color or are pink or appear as simple bumps on the skin. That’s why it’s important not to try to diagnose skin cancer on your own.

“Be aware of isolated or pink spots, especially if the spot looks different than any other marks on the skin,” Marghoob says. “Pay attention to any spot or mark that has an uneven texture, shape, border, or distribution of colors,” he added. “In addition, any spot that has changed in some way should prompt a visit to your doctor.”

Avoiding Skin Cancer

To avoid getting skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S. and around the world, the AAD recommends these steps.

  • Seek shade. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If your shadow appears to be shorter than you are, stay in the shade as much as possible.
  • Wear sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection. For more effective protection, choose clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) number on the label.
  • Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. Broad-spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

If you have any questions about how to protect yourself from the sun or notice new or suspicious spots on your skin or any spots that are changing, itching, or bleeding, let us know.

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