HEALTH & WELLNESS
SPECIAL SECTION
Pet Health
• Change up your pet ’ s exercise routine – Outdoor walks may be limited in cold winter months , so change your play routine to ensure adequate exercise for your pet . See if your community has an indoor recreation area to get out some energy .
• Adjust food portion sizes – To accommodate the fluctuation in activity , adjust the amount of food and treats you give to your pet . Avoiding weight gain during months that your pet is more sedentary is important .
• Limit bathing – Natural oils help your pet maintain a healthy coat during dry winter months . Be sure to keep bathing to a minimum to reduce skin issues . If you need to bathe your pets , be sure to dry them thoroughly , even if they are staying in the house .
• Pets need moisturizer , too – In addition to limiting baths , help prevent dry skin with coconut oil , a natural moisturizer that can aid flaky or cracking skin .
• Wipe away chemicals – Wash and dry your pet ’ s paws and stomach to remove chemicals from road salt after outdoor walks . These chemicals can cause burns to paws and skin if not removed ( plus you don ’ t want them in your house ). If your dog has furry feet , trim the fur between the pads to prevent build-up of ice and snow .
• Prevent burns – Block off heat sources such as fireplaces and space heaters to prevent burns and accidents .
• Warm bed – Keep your pet ’ s sleeping area away from drafty doors and cold floors . Providing a cozy bed will help keep pets warm during cold months .
• Watch for hazardous edibles – Keep holiday ornaments , lights , poinsettias , alcohol , and chocolate out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion . If you suspect your pet has ingested something hazardous , call your vet immediately .
• Never leave your pet unattended in the car – No matter what season it is , do not leave your pet in the car . Freezing cold temperatures are equally as dangerous as the heat of the summer months . Leave your pet at home , or find a pet sitter to stop by to visit while you ’ re out .
lots of water will do wonders . But keep in mind : there are other ways to make your skin shine bright !
• Wear sunscreen .
• Get a full night ’ s sleep .
• Exfoliate to shrink pores .
• Hydrate your face , neck , and chest .
• Always wash off dirt and makeup before bed .
• Keep shower water warm , not hot .
• Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp .
• Keep your hands off your face .
• Sanitize your cell phone .
Bones
Bones are an important part of your body but often forgotten . They protect vital organs and provide structure to your body . Building and maintaining strong bones is important from childhood to adulthood . There are many factors that determine bone health , the most common being age . Bones become thinner as we age , with women at greater risk of osteoporosis because they have less bone tissue than men . Genetics and race also play a large role . Those who are white or of Asian descent are at a greater risk , as are those with a family history of osteoporosis . Too much of the thyroid hormone can cause bone loss , and women are likely to experience increased bone loss during menopause due to a decrease in estrogen levels . With long-term use , some medications may also cause bone loss .
It is important to ensure proper health and nutrition for bones to stay strong throughout your life . Adequate calcium intake and physical activity can help keep bones healthy .
Back and Neck Care
Back pain is one of Americans ’ most common medical ailments . Chiropractic and other specialized care centers can be a resource for patients suffering from a variety of conditions such as lower back pain , neck pain , headaches , fibromyalgia , sciatica , spinal stenosis , ear infections , neurological conditions , or scoliosis . The nervous system controls all of the cells and organs in your body , which is why chiropractors focus on the health and proper alignment of the spine .
64 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE ❘ icmags . com