Healthy Home Newsletter November 2013 - Volume XVll, Issue 11

November 2013 - Volume XVII, Issue 11 Owners: Len Hume & Annette Marchionda Follow us on twitter @HlthyHomNiagara or www.twitter.com/HlthyHomNiagara Keep Your Mind Sharp If you are over 40, you might find you have signs of forgetfulness. You can't quite come up with a word you want to use, or it takes you a minute to remember someone's name. Dr. Peter Tabins of John's Hopkins Medical Center says here's how to stay sharp: ? Keep your blood pressure under control: Treating high blood pressure maximizes blood flow to the heart and brain. ? Eat well: Your diet should contain low-fat dairy products, fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fats from fish and nuts. ? Exercise: High levels of fitness bring better cognitive function. ? Drink only in moderation: Having more than four alcoholic drinks can lead to memory problems. ? Watch for prescription interaction: If you regularly take drugs for any medical condition and have noticed memory problems, speak to your doctor. ? Get enough sleep. Diabetes Education Week Pre-Diabetes is the state in which some (but not all) of the diagnostic criteria for diabetes are met, often described as the "grey area" between normal blood sugar and diabetic levels. If you are older than 45 and overweight, you are at increased risk for pre-diabetes. There are steps you can take today to live a healthier life and prevent or delay diabetes. ? ? ? ? ? LIKE us on Facebook and ENTER our Sweepstakes to receive a $25 gift card! Post a before and after photo of your recent cleaning and receive an additional $50 gift card!! Go to: www.facebook.com/PCSNiagara Find out if you are actually at risk. Talk to your doctor at your next visit to see if you fit the pre-diabetes risk group. Set realistic goals. Start by making small changes. For example, try to get 15 minutes of physical activity per day, and as the weeks pass build up to the recommended 30 minutes of exercise per day. Make better diet choices. Try to eat five to nine servings of fruits, vegetables, beans and grains each day. Reduce the amount of fat in your diet. Choose grilled or baked foods instead of fried. Write it down. Record what you eat and drink each day. Keeping a food diary is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and keep it off. Keep at it. Habits being what they are, making even small changes can be tough when you first start. Try by adding one new healthy change a week. If you slack, get back on track. Keep at it. Get Free Cleaning Tips and Specials at our Website www. pcsniagara.com and www.facebook.com/PCSNiagara! ©2013 Piranha Marketing, Inc.