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Fitness & Nutrition Blog

  • Now is the perfect time to take steps for better heart health

    When it comes to heart-healthy nutrition, the main nutrients to look at are fat, sodium, cholesterol, and fiber. Small changes can make a big difference in your heart health!

  • Treating Ingrown Toenails

    Do you suffer from ingrown toenails? Although ingrown nails can occur on the fingers, it occurs much more commonly on the toes, especially the big toe.  While sometimes it is necessary to see your healthcare provider, such in the case of infection, there are some things you can do at home to prevent and treat an ingrown toenail.    

  • Why Water is the Most Important Thing to Put in Your Body

    We have all been told for years that it is vital to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. What exactly does this mean? Why is hydration status so important to our health, and how does water benefit our body?

  • Say Yes to Fruit

    Since it is known excess sugar is not good for you, many people now believe this applies to fruit too. This is not true! Fructose is a natural, simple sugar commonly found in fruits. The absence of glucose makes pure fructose fundamentally different from high fructose corn syrup.

  • The BEST Exercise for Losing Body Fat

    So many headlines proclaim a variation of “This one simple trick will change your life,” and this one is no different. The notion of simplifying a task that seems endlessly complex is an enticing thing.

  • Carbohydrates:  Friend or Foe?

    What is a carbohydrate? What are good sources of carbohydrates? What are some good guidelines for portion sizes when it comes to carbs?

  • Protein: It’s Not Just Meat!

    What is protein? What role does it play in nutrition, and what are good sources of protein?

  • Healthy Eating and Living Program: Aimee's Story

    Like many, Aimee has struggled with her weight her whole life, making progress with weight loss at times, only to see the pounds come back again and again. Now, after losing more than 100 pounds, she’s dedicated to the non-surgical Healthy Eating and Living Program (HELP) developed by Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions. 

  • Spring into Shape with a Diabetes Warmup

    A central part of staying healthy is also one of the best therapies for diabetes. What is it, you may ask? Physical Activity! The benefits of exercise are many — from weight loss to improving stress and anxiousness, to lowering blood glucose.

  • Mindful Eating During the Holidays

    From the Deaconess Wellness Team 

    While we are celebrating with family or prepping for a gathering during the holidays, it is very important to keep mindful of our eating patterns. We often eat additional calories without realizing it. Find tips on healthy eating here.

  • 8 Reasons to Shop at Your Local Farmers Market

    Rebekah Basham, PA, Deaconess Clinic - Memorial

    It's summer, and local farmers markets have “sprouted up,” giving us new opportunities to buy fresh produce.
     

  • Getting More Fruit Into Your Diet

    Debbie Pfeiffer, Clinical Dietitian, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    One of the best parts of summer are the seasonal, delicious fruits. Early summer gives us sweet strawberries; later we get to enjoy plump grapes, vibrant berries, juicy peaches...the list goes on and on! 

  • Prediabetes: Know Your Risk

    Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. A person with prediabetes is not only at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but also at higher risks for heart disease and stroke. Learn steps for prevention.

  • Simple, Healthy Swaps

    Join Deaconess Employee Wellness health coaches, Gabriella Eddings and Susie Ann Oliver, in this 4-session program to discover how you can incorporate simple, healthy swaps into your day!
     
     
     

  • Understanding Surgical Weight Loss

    Gina Niemeier, PA, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions 
     
    Weight loss is a popular and important topic. As a provider specializing in helping people lose weight, I’ve seen firsthand how weight loss success positively impacts nearly every aspect of their lives. I have also answered many questions about the surgeries we perform, the process of preparing for surgery, and what patients can expect over the months prior to and after surgery.

  • Feel Better with Self-Care

    After a difficult 2020, the new year is a good time to refocus your priorities on self-care and your health. Getting healthier is a marathon, not a sprint - and it's important to focus on both your physical and mental health.  Learn ways that you can help yourself feel better in a minute, in an hour, in a week, in a month and in a year.  

  • Beating Bunions

    Jason Denton, DPM, Deaconess Clinic Podiatry

    Every day in my practice, I see patients who are suffering from large, painful bunions. The condition is common, affecting as many as 1/3 of all adults. Many times bunions don’t require professional treatment, but when they do, a podiatrist can play an important role in addressing the issue.
     

  • Diabetes & Stress in 2020

    Due to economic strain, virtual school, social isolation resulting from COVID-19 precautions, a tense election cycle, and the upcoming holiday season, people in general are struggling to maintain any kind of routine. For those with diabetes, lack of consistency represents a serious challenge to their health.  

  • Understanding & Treating Heel Pain

    Brandt Dodson, DPM, Deaconess Clinic Podiatry
     
    In my 30 years of practicing podiatry, I’ve cared for thousands of people with heel pain. It’s actually one of the most common complaints I hear in my office. Treating heel pain can help people get back to living a better, more complete life.  
     

  • Super Summer Nutrition

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Summer in the Tri-State means an abundance of locally grown produce. As a dietitian, I know the reasons why fruits and vegetables are so good for you, which makes summer the perfect time of year to encourage eating more of them...and to expand the ways people cook and eat in-season produce.
     

  • Keep Moving for Better Health

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Oakland City

    Growing attention to the health benefits of physical fitness has millions of Americans thinking about how they can get more exercise. Walking, hiking and biking are a few easy options to get people started on a daily exercise routine. 
     

  • What’s Your Emergency Food Plan?

    It’s always good practice to plan ahead for emergencies, but that planning becomes even more important when you have specific dietary needs and restrictions.

  • Lymphedema: Top 5 Essentials

    High Pointe Therapy at The Women's Hospital

    Cancer teaches us to “Clear the Clutter.” All of us are experiencing a similar time now.  So, while we simplify life to the essentials, what do we keep? 
     

  • Helping Kids Develop Healthy Eating Habits

    Taniza Karim, MD Pediatrician, Deaconess Clinic Boonville

    Every day we learn more about the importance of nutrition in the health of children, both now and as they become adults.
     

  • How a Multi-Cooker Can Improve Your Diet

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    If social media and sales figures are correct, many of you bought or received a multi-cooker over the holidays. While the advertising for using these appliances focuses on saving time, I’d like to tell you how they can help with healthier eating and even weight loss.
     

  • Probiotics and Prebiotics – What They Mean To Your Health

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown
     
    Probiotics and prebiotics—these are some health and nutrition “buzz words” right now. But do you know what they mean, and how pre-and-probiotics may affect your health?


     

  • What Should I Eat While Breastfeeding?

    Gretchen Moody, RN, IBCLC, Lactation Coordinator

     

  • Use Your Slow Cooker to Make Healthy Eating an Easy Choice

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    The most common reason people give for not sticking to a healthy eating routine is a lack of time for meal preparation. When people give us this excuse, we like to tell them about the benefits of using a slow cooker.

  • Diagnosis and Management of PCOS

    Valerie T., NP, Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

    PCOS is one of the most common or hormonal problems affecting women. It affects 5-18% of women.

  • 10 Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions
     
    The holiday season is filled with traditions — and amazing food! How are you supposed to choose nutrition over homemade desserts and family favorites? The simple answer is planning. (Recipes are also included.)
     

  • Fabulous Fall Flavors

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    There’s more to fall flavors than just pumpkin spice! This season brings tasty vegetables that are colorful, delicious and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Examples of traditional autumn produce -- and recipes! -- are below.

  • Tips for Making Healthy, Savory Fall Soups

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Fall in the tri-state means cooler weather, and cooler weather makes me think about soup. Soup is warm and comforting but also convenient and a great way to add vegetables to your diet.  (Recipes included.)
     

  • Tasty Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Thanksgiving is a time to count our blessings and visit with family and friends. It’s also a time to enjoy holiday foods. With just a little bit of effort, you can eat your favorite dishes and still achieve your goals for better health. Don’t believe me? Keep reading. (I share some great recipes too!)

  • More Fiber = More Gas?

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Eating a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains is great for our health, but can sometimes lead to bloating, gas, and other abdominal discomfort. Learn tips on making healthy food choices while still being able to go out in public.
     

  • Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions
     
    Information about healthy eating seems to be everywhere. We found that the majority of patients have success using the Mediterranean diet.

  • Quick & Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Your Family

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Now that children are back in school, morning time can be very hectic. Amid the busy routine of getting everyone up, ready, and off to school, it is easy to skip breakfast. But as you’ve probably heard, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.   
     

  • The Keto Diet—The Facts, How It Works, Is It Safe?

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown
     
    Americans seem to try one trendy diet after another. Recently, a low carbohydrate diet called Ketogenic (Keto) has gained popularity.
     

  • Sizzle Without Guilt: 7 Tips for Healthy Summer Cookouts

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Summer means picnics, barbeques, and other outdoor social events. It also means lots of yummy foods, many of which are not so healthy. Here are some tips--and recipes!--to help you enjoy a guilt-free summer without compromising fun or your weight loss goals. 
     

  • 8 Healthy & Fit Summer Vacation Tips

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, Registered Dietitian

    Vacation is a great time to reduce stress and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. It’s not, however, the time to turn back on healthy lifestyle changes you worked on through the winter and spring months. Here are a few ways to maintain healthy habits when you’re out of town and out of your normal routine.
     

  • Eat Your Veggies!

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions


    The farmers have been busy in the fields this spring, and their hard work is beginning to show as vegetables ripen. Soon, road-side stands and farmers markets will be brimming with people anxious to purchase their fresh seasonal vegetables. But what about the people not excited for fresh produce season?


     

  • Easter Favorites: Healthy Variations on Classic Lunch & Brunch Recipes

    Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Special Easter gatherings bring to mind favorite foods. Here are some Easter favorites, but these recipes offer a few less calories without compromising on taste.

     

  • Tasty and Healthy Recipes for the Big Game

    Debbie Pfeiffer, MS, Registered Dietitian, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    It’s almost time for the biggest football game of the year, which often means parties with lots of food! Here are some tasty recipe ideas and healthy tips to make your game day a waistline success.
     

  • Keeping Resolutions in the New Year

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    It’s that time of year again! New Year’s Day is around the corner and many of us are starting to think about making a resolution. But how do you stick to your resolution and not give up before Valentine’s Day? We’ve listed some tips below on how to make and keep momentum toward your New Year’s resolution throughout the year.

  • Staying Healthy Through The Holidays

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    The holiday season is upon us.  Learn tips for staying healthy and avoiding illness so you and your family can be well from now into the new year.
     

  • Planning & Goal-Setting to Prevent Holiday Weight Gain

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    When your goal is weight loss, this time of the year can be a difficult time, as high-calorie, great-tasting food seems to be everywhere!  Here are some tips that can help you navigate through the weeks ahead.
     

  • Fighting Chronic Fatigue

    Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    Chronic fatigue is a condition that causes someone to be extremely tired—to the point that they can’t function in their daily life.  It is also often misunderstood.
     

  • Weight Loss Tips

    Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    When it comes to losing weight, there are some first steps that everyone should try. There are also some weight loss methods that we don’t recommend, either because they don’t work or because they aren’t healthy. These general recommendations can not only help with weight loss, but will also improve overall health and well-being. 
     

  • Treating Joint Pain - What To Do and When to See a Doctor

    Orthopaedic Associates

    If you’re experiencing pain in any joint—your knee, ankle, shoulder, hip, etc.—you need to know how to best treat it at home. It’s also important to know when it’s time to see a doctor.
     
     

  • Mediterranean Diet—A Healthy Diet for Life

    Deaconess Clinic Downtown

    One third of the adults in the United States are obese--that is, they have a BMI (body mass index weight/height) greater than 30. It seems these days everyone is trying to diet to lose weight or simply be healthier.
     

  • What's in YOUR grocery cart?

    Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

    Learn some healthy shopping tips from registered dietitian Debbie P. from Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions.

  • Major Depressive Disorder: Taking Back Control of Your Life

    Michelle Galen, MD; Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic

    A feeling of sadness that doesn’t seem to go away. Unexplained weight gain or weight loss.  Inability to focus. Fatigued but just can’t sleep.  If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing major depression episodes caused by a disease called Major Depressive Disorder or MDD.  If you have MDD you’re not alone. Depression affects 15.7 million American adults.

  • Being Smart About Online Health Information

    Gail Lee, Deaconess Health Science Librarian

    Researching health topics online can be frustrating, confusing and even scary, as it can be hard to know if information you find is correct and accurate. This article will empower you know how to find quality health information, and to recognize potentially bad sources of information.

  • Getting Organized for Better Health

    Gabriella Eddings, BS, CHC, Wellness Coach, Deaconess Employee Wellness

    Every January 1 many people are motivated and excited for a fresh start. But about a week in, we sometimes start to weigh if our resolutions are really worth the effort. Lack of motivation, busy schedules and stress are just some of the reasons we abandon our resolutions and start to rationalize how we were living before December 31. So how do we keep that motivation going throughout the year, or even throughout the entire month of January?  

  • Walk On, and Walk Safety

    Lu Weil, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Deaconess Regional Trauma Center

    Walking is one of the best things we can do to stay healthy, but only if we put safety first. We are seldom more vulnerable than when walking. It is important to pay attention to what is going on around us.

  • Tasty & Healthy—Fresh From the Garden

    Jessica Martin, Deaconess Registered Dietitian, Clinical Dietitian

    Summer is in full swing!  Its presence surrounds you with the warmth of the sun and humidity in the air, children enjoying outdoor activities, outdoor grilling, and the wonderful fruits and vegetables the season has to offer. 

  • Getting Started with Physical Activity - Get Motivated!

    Dr. Jung Smith, Family  Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Mary Street


    If you've not been physically active, you may be wondering how to get started.  For many people, walking offers a great way to become more active. And Deaconess is getting ready to begin our annual Healthier U Walk series—see the schedule and more at www.deaconess.com/walk.

  • 10 Choices to add years to your life

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine, Oakland City

    People who follow a few simple steps to improve their health have less cancer and heart disease compared to other Americans, and their overall death rate is significantly reduced compared to other people under age 65. Here are ten choices you can make that will lead to a longer and healthier life:
     

  • Making the Most of Your Pharmacy

    Deaconess Family Pharmacy

    Most people encounter a pharmacy on a regular basis.  And we find that many patients want to just pay for their medication and go, but they’re missing out on important information. Below, we will detail some “insider tips” that will help you make the most from your pharmacy.





     

  • Health Benefits of Tai Chi

    John Hufstedler, Deaconess Cross Pointe social work therapist, Tai Chi instructor
     
    Tai chi—you’ve probably heard of it and even seen it before, but you may not know exactly what it is. 
     

  • Feel Better

    Terry Gehlhausen, MD, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine, Oakland City

    Feel better in a year, month, day, even minute! These are simple tips that can lead to increased health and improve your quality of life. 

  • Autumn: A Time for Change

    Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Family Medicine Deaconess Clinic Oakland City

    The winds of autumn are upon us, and they have already blown away the heat and humidity of summer. September 23rd was the first day of autumn and it is time for a new season.
     

  • Clean Eating in the Summer

    Deaconess Clinic Princeton

    Summer months naturally lend themselves to clean eating. It’s important to know how to take advantage of this. Summer also brings cookouts, traveling, and family vacations. It is possible to continue clean eating by remembering a few tips and tricks.
     

  • Healthy Golf Facts

    Deaconess Health Systems

    Do you like to golf? Golf is a great low-risk injury sport for all ages. Here are a few healthy golf facts for you to know next time you're out on the course.

  • 7 Reasons to Shop at Your Local Farmers Market

    Rebekah Basham, PA Deaconess Clinic 

    It's spring again, and that means it's time for local Farmers Markets to open. They have become very popular in past years, but did you know there's health benefits to frequenting a Farmers Market near you? 

  • Eating Clean, Feeling Good

    Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine 

    Do you feel like food controls you? Are you looking for a solution to weight issues or to your overall health? Are you exercising but not seeing or feeling the results you want?  If so, I want to share with you about eating clean. 

  • All About Water

    Rebekah Basham, PA Deaconess Clinic

    We’ve all heard how important it is to drink water, but how much is the right amount? What about caffeine, sports drinks, and weight loss? With all the information floating around, it’s time to get the facts on your water intake. 

  • 10 Good-for-You Date Ideas

    Deaconess Health Editorial Staff

    With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you may be scrambling to come up with a great date idea. While the old standbys of flowers and chocolate are always popular, it may be time to spice things up a bit and think outside-the-box with some healthy date alternatives. Here are some date ideas to get you and your special someone active and healthy. 

  • Easy Ways to Cut Calories

    Terry Gehlausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine

    Most of us picked up a little extra fat around the middle over the holidays. Here are a few simple ways to eliminate those pounds:

  • How to Make Realistic Resolutions and Keep Them

    Deaconess Employee Wellness Staff

    A new year can mean new resolutions, but what’s the best way to set realistic goals you can actually accomplish? Read on for some useful tips and direction to keep your resolutions, reach your goals, and have a new year that’s happy and healthy. 

  • Reality Check Time - Today is a new day!

    Deaconess Clinic Petersburg

    Ever get in a rut and seem stuck? Women often feel pounded down to the ground to the point that they can’t muscle the energy to get up. Their spirits are weary and souls tarnished.  Drained women, worn-out moms, and fading ladies sometimes need a good restart. Learn quick tips to revitalize, rejuvenate, renew, and refresh you.

  • 9 Tips for Making Healthy Choices During the Holidays

    Deaconess Wellness Team

    Family dinners and holiday parties are just around the corner. If you don’t have a plan for balancing food choices with enjoying the festivities, you may find yourself really frustrated. Try these 9 tips for making healthy holiday choices and you may find yourself having a Happy New Year

  • 6 Tips to Keep You Fit This Fall

    Dr Terry Gehlhausen, Deaconess Clinic Petersburg

    The winds of autumn are upon us, and they have already blown away the heat and humidity of summer. It's time to prepare for a new season, and the same applies to your health.
     

  • Confronting Misinformation on the Web

    Deaconess Clinic Petersburg

    How many of you have jumped on the web, google searched your condition, symptoms, etc. Then spent the next few hours reading about how you probably have the worst diagnosis possible on WebMD  and the like. 

  • Lifestyle Changes That Lead to a Leaner, Healthier You

    Deaconess Employee Wellness Program​

    Eating habits and activity levels can impact weight loss. This conversation will be about how weight loss is a matter of taking in fewer calories than you use during the day. 
     

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