Healthy RGV Issue 112 - Is Getting A Colonoscopy Worth it?
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ISSUE <strong>112</strong><br />
EDITORIAL CONTENT<br />
MELASMA: THE MASK OF PREGNANCY<br />
GLOWING SUMMER SKIN WITH A NO<br />
NONSENSE, NO MAKEUP APPROACH<br />
YOUR BOTOX QUESTIONS ANSWERED<br />
BY EXPERTS: A PRIMER<br />
SHOULD YOU BE TAKING AN<br />
ANTI-AGING SUPPLEMENT?<br />
COLONOSCOPY: IS IT WORTH IT?<br />
TOP FIVE CANCER TRENDS<br />
THE DOS & DON’TS OF SKINCARE<br />
ACHALASIA<br />
COLON AND RECTAL CANCER<br />
AWARENESS: AM I AT RISK?<br />
HEALTHIER AFTER A GASTRIC<br />
BYPASS SURGERY<br />
THE TRUTH ABOUT SKIN SHRINK<br />
CELLULITE: WHAT CAUSES IT AND<br />
HOW TO MAKE IT GO AWAY<br />
HOW YOUR DIET MAY BE ABLE<br />
TO PREVENT SKIN CANCER<br />
OVER THE COUNTER ACNE SOLUTIONS<br />
YUMMY FOODS THAT ARE GOOD FOR<br />
YOU FROM THE INSIDE OUT<br />
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8<br />
10<br />
12<br />
14<br />
21<br />
22<br />
24<br />
26<br />
28<br />
30<br />
32<br />
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36<br />
38<br />
contact@healthymagazine.com<br />
ph. 305-900-7009 | www.healthymagazine.com
PUBLISHER<br />
Mauricio Portillo<br />
EDITOR IN CHIEF<br />
Claudia Portillo<br />
MARKETING DIRECTOR<br />
Arnaldo Del Valle<br />
COPY EDITOR<br />
Lora Incardona<br />
ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR<br />
Andres Portillo<br />
"Being<br />
healthy and<br />
f<strong>it</strong> is no longer<br />
a fad or a trend<br />
<strong>it</strong>'s a Lifestyle."<br />
Only one heart.<br />
Only one you.<br />
INDIVIDUALIZED HEART CARE,<br />
DEVOTED TO YOU.<br />
No two hearts are exactly the same.<br />
That’s why the cardiovascular<br />
specialists of Valley Baptist Health<br />
System pursue an individualized<br />
care plan for every single heart we<br />
encounter. From preventative care to<br />
WEBSITE DIRECTOR<br />
Maria Alejandra Wehdeking<br />
ART AND DESIGN<br />
Carolina Pedraza<br />
Raul Arenas<br />
PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
Kiko Ricote<br />
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR<br />
Maria Alejandra Wehdeking<br />
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS<br />
Daniel Farray, M.D.<br />
Habib Ghaddar, M.D., FACP<br />
Dominique Vande Maele M.D.<br />
Ángel Tamez, MD<br />
Veronica T. Guerrero, MD<br />
Claudia Portillo<br />
Eilleen Sm<strong>it</strong>h<br />
Vanessa Jackson<br />
Julianna Lowe<br />
Alan Freeman<br />
Sarah Wester<br />
Sharon Lowell<br />
Angelina Sire<br />
Harold Levi<br />
Stella Nash<br />
Carol Jenkins<br />
Claudia Portillo<br />
Ed<strong>it</strong>or in Chief<br />
Spring: A Time of Renewal from the Inside Out<br />
Spring Fever is upon us. It’s a time to refresh. Flowers will come into bloom. Spring rains will sweep many parts of<br />
the country. It’s a time for new life and new beginnings. Many of us will start to rethink our New Year’s resolutions<br />
and look for opportun<strong>it</strong>ies to rev up our diet and exercise plans. While you’re at <strong>it</strong>, why not go a step further and<br />
take a good, hard look at your skin.<br />
Recently, research scientists have focused on the correlation between what we put in our bodies and how that<br />
impacts our skin. Springtime is the perfect time to assess our health, specifically focusing on our overall skin health.<br />
They say the eyes are the windows to the world. I say the skin is the window to our well-being.<br />
You’ve heard the saying that we are what we eat. Scientists now have clear data proving that <strong>it</strong>’s true. We here at<br />
<strong>Healthy</strong> Magazine strive to help you be the best version of yourself. This important research tells us that this is an<br />
area of our lives we need to revamp and improve upon.<br />
As you prepare to plant seeds and ready for your gardens for an abundance of new growth, take some time to<br />
reflect on how you’re cultivating your own personal health. Are you getting enough hydration to keep your system<br />
flowing as <strong>it</strong> should and to promote soft, smooth skin and lessen elastic<strong>it</strong>y? Have you cut back on skin and organ<br />
damaging caffeine? <strong>Is</strong> <strong>it</strong> time to reclaim your healthy, glowing skin by lim<strong>it</strong>ing your alcohol consumption? Those are<br />
just a few of the changes that should be made for optimal health well beyond this season.<br />
For instance, dairy and sugar wreak havoc on your skin. They may be yummy to eat, but they will leave you w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
blemishes. Salt leaves your eyes puffy, not to mention the damage <strong>it</strong> does to your heart. There are countless other<br />
foods and drinks that aren’t doing anything to keep you healthy. Take a few minutes, open the refrigerator and be<br />
honest w<strong>it</strong>h yourself. Are you doing everything possible to make sure you remain in tip-top shape? If the answer is<br />
no, know that this month we’ve got you covered. We’re here to help you trans<strong>it</strong>ion from the winter blahs and spring<br />
into a new venture, a fresh start, and a fresh, clean way of living that will make you proud to look in the mirror.<br />
As Spring rolls in, know that we’ll be w<strong>it</strong>h you every step of the way.<br />
treating heart cond<strong>it</strong>ions, every<br />
element is designed to take care<br />
of our first prior<strong>it</strong>y: you.<br />
To learn more about our services or to find a cardiologist near you<br />
call (844) 614-9386 or vis<strong>it</strong> ValleyHearts.com/onlyone<br />
cportillo@healthymagazine.com<br />
/HEALTHYMAGAZINE<br />
@HEALTHYVALLEY<br />
/HEALTHYMAGAZINEONLINE<br />
/ HEALTHYMAG08<br />
contact@healthymagazine.com | ph. 305-900-7009 | www.healthymagazine.com<br />
<strong>Healthy</strong> Magazine is a free monthly publication. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced w<strong>it</strong>hout wr<strong>it</strong>ten consent from the publisher. The material<br />
in this magazine is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to const<strong>it</strong>ute medical advice, probable diagnosis, or recommended treatments. <strong>Healthy</strong><br />
Magazine and <strong>it</strong>s contributors accept no responsibil<strong>it</strong>y for inaccuracies, and the advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any error.<br />
1040 W Jefferson St.<br />
Brownsville, TX 78520<br />
2101 Pease St.<br />
Harlingen, TX 78550
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
There’s also<br />
a genetic<br />
component<br />
to melasma.<br />
If your mother<br />
suffered from <strong>it</strong>,<br />
you might struggle<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h <strong>it</strong> at some point<br />
too. It’s believed that<br />
our skin is genetically<br />
predisposed to this<br />
cond<strong>it</strong>ion. It also tends to<br />
occur in people of color more often<br />
than those w<strong>it</strong>h lighter skin tone and also<br />
affects those who live in sunny locations<br />
more often than those that live other parts<br />
of the world or country.<br />
“<br />
What is called genius<br />
is the abundance of<br />
life and health.<br />
”<br />
— Henry David Thoreau<br />
If you’re pregnant or plan to become<br />
pregnant soon or know you’ll be starting a<br />
hormone replacement therapy, be mindful<br />
of any blemishes. Be on the lookout for<br />
them.<br />
MELASMA: THE<br />
MASK OF PREGNANCY<br />
Melasma is a difficult to control facial discoloration that, unfortunately, is often<br />
unavoidable. It’s not a sudden tan or a freak accident. It most cases <strong>it</strong> is classified as<br />
darkening around the mouth, under your nose, or on your cheeks. Most often <strong>it</strong> is<br />
seen in pregnant women, new birth control, or hormone replacement therapy. Those<br />
pesky hormones! It could appear as brown spots on your jawline or across your<br />
forehead. Finding these blemishes can be shocking and throw you off balance. You<br />
might work yourself up into a frenzy, trying desperately to get rid of these marks. The<br />
good news is you don’t have to panic. There are ways to cope w<strong>it</strong>h these blemishes.<br />
To know how to treat <strong>it</strong>, you first have to<br />
have a full grasp of what <strong>it</strong> is and why <strong>it</strong><br />
appears. It’s a skin cond<strong>it</strong>ion that presents<br />
as light-to-dark brown patches on the skin.<br />
These are caused by an overstimulation of<br />
melanocytes.<br />
Recognizing that what you have might be<br />
melasma depends on the circumstances<br />
around the flare-up. As mentioned<br />
previously, these spots or patches appear<br />
as a result of hormonal changes. That’s<br />
what fuels them. If you’ve not experienced<br />
recent hormonal changes, you might not<br />
have melasma. It could be a cond<strong>it</strong>ion known<br />
as hyperpigmentation, which will show the<br />
long-term residual damage from teen acne<br />
or another skin injury. While treatment for<br />
both might be similar, only melasma will<br />
come back more eagerly later.<br />
If you already have <strong>it</strong>, the harder <strong>it</strong> can<br />
be to treat, but don’t worry, not all hope<br />
is lost. The first thing you need to do is<br />
find or make a chemical/pollutant free<br />
exfoliator and start exfoliating. Also, you<br />
may want to consult w<strong>it</strong>h your physician<br />
for topical prescription medications that<br />
can help w<strong>it</strong>h the symptoms. Depending<br />
on your budget, you may want to look into<br />
laser treatments to treat the discoloration.<br />
Chemical peels have also been known<br />
to work well to fight melasma. Try some<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h glycolic, mandelic, or lactic acid to<br />
promote a brighter complexion. Avoid skin<br />
bleaching products unless prescribed by<br />
your dermatologist.<br />
Once you’ve treated your melasma, you’ll<br />
want to take steps to avoid a recurrence.<br />
Sunscreen is your number one defense<br />
against most skin ailments. Use physical<br />
sunscreens not harmful chemical<br />
sunscreens. Avoid Bikram yoga, infrared<br />
saunas, and d<strong>it</strong>ch the hot tub. Turn down<br />
the water temperature in your house. Stop<br />
cleansing your skin w<strong>it</strong>h warm water. If for<br />
some reason you do feel the heat on your<br />
face, cool off quickly w<strong>it</strong>h a refrigerated<br />
sheet mask. The whole key is to keep<br />
the skin cool to avoid a breakout of new<br />
blemishes.<br />
WWW.HEALTHYMAGAZINE.COM<br />
6 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
GLOWING SUMMER SKIN<br />
WITH A NO NONSENSE,<br />
NO MAKEUP APPROACH<br />
When you hear the term no<br />
makeup, you probably think that<br />
means none, nada, not a drop<br />
of makeup, but, unfortunately,<br />
often ‘industry professionals’<br />
mean something entirely different. Most of the<br />
last decade’s no makeup movement has involved<br />
having to apply a fair amount of makeup. Go figure.<br />
How does that work? A l<strong>it</strong>tle concealer here. Some<br />
gel over here. Oh, and don’t forget the mascara. A<br />
woman never leaves home w<strong>it</strong>hout mascara. Color<br />
me confused. That doesn’t sound like no makeup to<br />
me.<br />
We know how much we love our warm Summer<br />
glow. We want our eyes to look bright, our<br />
cheekbones high, our lashes long and lush, but what<br />
good is all that if you’ve done nothing to protect<br />
your skin from harmful UV rays?<br />
Now there’s a product that<br />
covers all your beauty basics.<br />
Katonya Breaux’s UnSun<br />
Sunscreen is a wonderfully<br />
effective mineral sunscreen<br />
developed for women of<br />
color, but can also be used<br />
on all skin tones and types.<br />
It blends in flawlessly to<br />
perfect the best all-over<br />
bronzy glow – for everyone.<br />
This genius product not<br />
only provides full-body<br />
coverage that will leave your<br />
skin glowing w<strong>it</strong>hout the<br />
heavy makeup buildup other<br />
products leave. It cancels out<br />
redness on the face and adds<br />
sun-kissed facial defin<strong>it</strong>ion.<br />
Can you say contoured<br />
cheekbones? But that’s not<br />
all! Not only does <strong>it</strong> make<br />
you look good, <strong>it</strong> also adds a<br />
powerful layer of protection<br />
for your skin. You’ve heard<br />
the term miracle product<br />
before. Typically, that’s an over<br />
exaggeration, but this product<br />
– this is the real deal. It’s a<br />
miracle in a bottle.<br />
UNSUN SPF30,TINTED MINERAL<br />
SUNSCREEN - $29.00<br />
Many women have longed for<br />
the day they don’t have to<br />
wear at least some type of makeup, whether that<br />
be via concealer or foundation or anything else that<br />
may help to mask blemishes like acne, redness, or<br />
hyperpigmentation, they want to break free of that<br />
routine. Now, finally, w<strong>it</strong>h this miracle product, you<br />
can. It takes care of everything – covering unsightly<br />
blemishes or redness – for you. W<strong>it</strong>h four unique,<br />
ready to wear products, there’s something for<br />
everyone. You can match <strong>it</strong> to any outf<strong>it</strong> you want to<br />
wear that day.<br />
TINTED HYDRA-<br />
REPAIR DAY<br />
CREAM - $55.00<br />
If you’re looking for a<br />
matte finish instead, the<br />
Grown Alchemist Tinted<br />
Moisturizer is the perfect<br />
product. It offers heavy<br />
hydration, a soothing, resort<br />
spa like facial, and a pleasant<br />
scent from the comfort of<br />
your home. If they’d add an<br />
SPF, this would be the best<br />
product ever.<br />
If you’d like to go for a more<br />
clinical approach, MyChelle<br />
Dermaceuticals Sun Shield<br />
Liquid Tint is the answer.<br />
It’s skin perfecting qual<strong>it</strong>ies<br />
are just the beginning of<br />
what this product can do for<br />
you. It contains a 16% zinc<br />
sunscreen w<strong>it</strong>h a light, waterweight<br />
texture. Did you see<br />
that? Sunscreen w<strong>it</strong>h a water<br />
weight texture. Genius!<br />
Last but certainly not least is<br />
the fancy, luxury brand. It’s<br />
the Natura Bisse The Cure<br />
Tinted Sheer Cream. This<br />
wonder potion moisturizes<br />
and leaves a dew-like glow.<br />
The undertone is a smooth,<br />
soothing gray tone. It can<br />
work as a pinch-contour<br />
on fair skin, and side note,<br />
<strong>it</strong> happens to be one of<br />
Beyonce’s favor<strong>it</strong>e products.<br />
What better endorsement do<br />
you need than that? Her skin<br />
is like butter.<br />
8 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
YOUR BOTOX<br />
QUESTIONS<br />
ANSWERED<br />
BY EXPERTS:<br />
A PRIMER<br />
Because facts matter, let’s get<br />
down to brass-tacks. Botox<br />
isn’t a long-term solution. It’s<br />
a treatment that needs to be<br />
repeated over and over again,<br />
but that doesn’t mean <strong>it</strong>’s not worth your<br />
while. Typically, treatment lasts about three<br />
to four months depending on many factors<br />
including the patient’s age and the number<br />
of un<strong>it</strong>s used in the treatment. Statistically,<br />
men fare a l<strong>it</strong>tle worse w<strong>it</strong>h Botox because<br />
stronger muscles mean less longev<strong>it</strong>y for the<br />
treatment fillers. They can expect treatment<br />
to last somewhere between<br />
two and three months.<br />
If you’re looking for something that lasts a b<strong>it</strong> longer, you can<br />
practice muscle retraining. How that works is you stick to the<br />
regimen your doctor has put you on and allow your muscles a<br />
chance to change the way they move your face. Allow them to<br />
retrain and work for you, not against you.<br />
As w<strong>it</strong>h any treatment, you should go into<br />
<strong>it</strong> w<strong>it</strong>h a basic understanding of what <strong>it</strong><br />
is. First, you should learn your provider’s<br />
philosophy and approach. Make sure that<br />
<strong>it</strong> matches your goals. Do your research<br />
about the provider, the facil<strong>it</strong>y, the treatment<br />
provided, and any potential risk factors of<br />
the procedure. Make sure your provider<br />
offers before and after consultation to<br />
answer any of your questions or concerns. If<br />
they’re unwilling to s<strong>it</strong> down and chat, they’re<br />
not the provider for you. It’s their job to<br />
ease your mind and take your concerns into<br />
account. Don’t go into this believing this is<br />
a short-term comm<strong>it</strong>ment. It is, in fact, the<br />
very oppos<strong>it</strong>e of that. What you choose to<br />
do today could have a significant outcome<br />
on the rest of your life and could help<br />
prolong your anti-aging process. You know,<br />
the reason you considered Botox treatment<br />
in the first place. Also, keep in mind that one<br />
treatment or one negative effect doesn’t<br />
const<strong>it</strong>ute full knowledge of how your body<br />
will react to treatments in the future. Do<br />
your homework.<br />
If you should decide to stop receiving Botox<br />
secrets, you’ll be glad to know there are<br />
no side effects to stopping. If for whatever<br />
reason treatments aren’t for you, consider<br />
that a lesson learned and move on.<br />
Did you know that Botox could be used a<br />
preventative treatment for wrinkles? It can!<br />
Even if you see no wrinkles now, getting<br />
injections will weaken the muscle and lim<strong>it</strong><br />
<strong>it</strong>s movement now and will prevent a wrinkle<br />
from forming in that area. Yay! But – there’s<br />
always a but – when <strong>it</strong> comes to aging,<br />
wrinkles aren’t the only thing you want<br />
to prevent. Primarily, you should want to<br />
prevent the sagging that comes w<strong>it</strong>h aging. If<br />
you over-weaken a muscle, you’re promoting<br />
more sagging. Don’t go so far as to cause<br />
other muscles to compensate for the one<br />
you’ve over-weakened.<br />
Botox is not the end all,<br />
be all. Sometimes you<br />
just might need a filler<br />
to fill in some of the gaps<br />
and plump your skin.<br />
Botox treatments have other benef<strong>it</strong>s too<br />
like they can eliminate excess sweating,<br />
flushing, adult acne, teeth grinding, jaw<br />
clenching and can ever help w<strong>it</strong>h migraines.<br />
Consult your pract<strong>it</strong>ioner to find out what <strong>it</strong><br />
can do for you and find the right treatment<br />
that makes sense for you.<br />
By Eilleen Sm<strong>it</strong>h<br />
10 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
SHOULD YOU<br />
BE TAKING AN<br />
ANTI-AGING<br />
SUPPLEMENT?<br />
As we age, every part of<br />
our bodies change. That’s<br />
a fact of life. When we h<strong>it</strong><br />
our forties, we begin to<br />
notice slight changes. Do<br />
crow’s feet ring a bell for<br />
anyone? In our thirties,<br />
we might start to see a<br />
sprig of gray hair.<br />
Perhaps, we’ve lost a l<strong>it</strong>tle of that spring in<br />
our step. No matter how big or small the<br />
change is, chances are we’ve taken notice of<br />
<strong>it</strong>. We might not yet be ready to acknowledge<br />
<strong>it</strong>, but <strong>it</strong>’s there. Once you learn to accept<br />
<strong>it</strong>, you can embrace the idea of doing<br />
something about <strong>it</strong>.<br />
Like your mother always told you, wellbalanced<br />
nutr<strong>it</strong>ion is best. Start w<strong>it</strong>h what<br />
you eat to get your neurons firing, your<br />
hormones working in your favor, and your<br />
brain cells ready to attack and make you<br />
more alert, more in tune w<strong>it</strong>h your body,<br />
and ready to face the day. That sounds easy<br />
enough, right? But that’s only the beginning<br />
of what you should do to optimize your<br />
health and well-being.<br />
Of course, you want to eat your fru<strong>it</strong>s and<br />
vegetables. You want to lim<strong>it</strong> salt, starches,<br />
sugar, and fats. You want to avoid late-night<br />
snacking and qu<strong>it</strong> running to the vending<br />
machine in the mid-afternoon, but how do<br />
you go about getting to the point that you<br />
can do all those things and not feel lousy?<br />
You need to make a plan and take a good,<br />
hard look at what you’re taking in. <strong>Is</strong> <strong>it</strong><br />
enough to give you a youth-boosting<br />
jumpstart on your health? Chances are <strong>it</strong>’s<br />
not. We may just need a supplement to help<br />
get us over the hump, so to speak. Take <strong>it</strong><br />
from the experts; <strong>it</strong>’s difficult to get your<br />
daily intake of good-for-you nutrients. Life is<br />
busy. It might take a l<strong>it</strong>tle more effort than<br />
you’re willing to part w<strong>it</strong>h to get there, but if<br />
your health is truly something you want to<br />
improve, making changes doesn’t have to be<br />
difficult.<br />
HERE’S WHAT THE<br />
EXPERTS HAVE TO SAY:<br />
CoQ10 is the best choices to fight<br />
01 aging. It works by focusing on<br />
m<strong>it</strong>ochondrial health and boosting cellular<br />
energy. It also protects the skin against<br />
environmental stressors and those pesky<br />
free radicals.<br />
Curcumin is a super antiinflammatory<br />
ingredient that is<br />
02<br />
often found in turmeric. Some studies<br />
suggest <strong>it</strong> might also help reduce the risk of<br />
Alzheimer's.<br />
By the time you reach your early to midthirties,<br />
significant changes are happening<br />
under the surface. To combat them before<br />
they happen, your best course of action is to<br />
do something now. Incorporate supplements<br />
to get you on the right track. Consult your<br />
physician or a nutr<strong>it</strong>ionist to help you make<br />
the right decision and start to reap the<br />
benef<strong>it</strong>s of a healthy diet now and, hopefully,<br />
ward off potential complications of aging<br />
later in life.<br />
Think about all <strong>it</strong> can do for both your<br />
physical well-being, your outside appearance,<br />
and deep down on a cellular level. You might<br />
be surprised to know many supplements<br />
have hidden benef<strong>it</strong>s that could make<br />
significant changes in your body. Why allow<br />
your body to deteriorate when there are<br />
products available – most natural – that<br />
can help you continue to thrive and live<br />
in the way you're accustomed to? A l<strong>it</strong>tle<br />
preventative care never hurts.<br />
By Julianna Lowe<br />
WWW.HEALTHYMAGAZINE.COM<br />
“<br />
Learning is the beginning<br />
of wealth. Learning is<br />
the beginning of health.<br />
Learning is the beginning of<br />
spir<strong>it</strong>ual<strong>it</strong>y. Searching and<br />
learning is where the miracle<br />
process all begins.<br />
”<br />
—Jim Rohn<br />
12 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
COVER STORY · MARCH 2018<br />
COVER STORY · MARCH 2018<br />
Colonoscopies are a great<br />
investment of your time. We<br />
spend a lot of time protecting<br />
our health by staying active and eating<br />
right, and <strong>it</strong> only makes sense to protect<br />
our health in this way too. Unlike<br />
screening for other cancers that need<br />
monthly self-exams, most people only<br />
need a colonoscopy once a decade. As<br />
an added bonus, a colonoscopy is unique<br />
as <strong>it</strong> is the only test that can be both a<br />
screening and a preventive exam, since<br />
precancerous polyps could be removed<br />
during the same procedure.<br />
COLONOSCOPY:<br />
IS IT WORTH IT?<br />
There are several things on my<br />
“to do” list that I’m really good<br />
at putting off. They need to be<br />
done, but I don’t like disrupting<br />
my routine or taking time<br />
away from other activ<strong>it</strong>ies to make them<br />
happen. However, when <strong>it</strong> comes to cancer<br />
screenings, <strong>it</strong>’s worth a l<strong>it</strong>tle disruption.<br />
We often think It won’t happen to me. I’m<br />
healthy. My family doesn’t have a history of<br />
cancer. But, cancer isn’t always predictable.<br />
For common cancers, like colorectal cancer,<br />
getting regular screenings can make the<br />
difference between being diagnosed at stage<br />
I or at stage IV, at which point the chances<br />
of survival decrease dramatically. In fact,<br />
approximately 90 percent of colorectal<br />
cancer could be prevented by removing<br />
colon polyps, which can turn into colon<br />
cancer.<br />
In the Un<strong>it</strong>ed States, colorectal is the third<br />
most commonly occurring cancer, w<strong>it</strong>h an<br />
estimated 140,250 new cases and 50,630<br />
deaths expected in 2018. One reason for<br />
the high number of deaths is that colorectal<br />
cancer often displays no symptoms in early<br />
stages, meaning most cases aren’t diagnosed<br />
until the disease is more advanced or is<br />
found through screenings. Fortunately, w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
early detection, the five-year survival rate<br />
could increase to more than 90 percent.<br />
KNOW YOUR<br />
SCREENING OPTIONS<br />
Men and women age 50 and older w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
an average risk for developing colorectal<br />
cancer should discuss the most appropriate<br />
screening test w<strong>it</strong>h their physician. Below are<br />
the options:<br />
<strong>Colonoscopy</strong> is the preferred screening<br />
test. A colonoscopy is a great example of<br />
something many would prefer not to do and<br />
often delay. Colonoscopies get the worst<br />
reputation of all of the cancer screenings,<br />
and <strong>it</strong>’s not hard to see why. We generally<br />
don’t discuss <strong>it</strong> at the dinner table, and <strong>it</strong><br />
might be a b<strong>it</strong> embarrassing. Between the<br />
prep and the procedure, you have to invest<br />
a b<strong>it</strong> of time. But at the end of the day, <strong>it</strong> is<br />
worth <strong>it</strong>.<br />
A colonoscopy simply isn’t<br />
as bad as <strong>it</strong>s reputation.<br />
Yes, you have to prep, which<br />
is probably the worst part. Yes, you’ll<br />
defin<strong>it</strong>ely want to be home the afternoon<br />
before your procedure. However, we are<br />
confident that if you asked our patients,<br />
most would tell you that the prep wasn’t<br />
as bad as expected; the procedure <strong>it</strong>self<br />
is a piece of cake – after all, you are<br />
asleep; and the peace of mind makes <strong>it</strong> all<br />
worthwhile.<br />
For those who decline or cannot get<br />
a colonoscopy, other screening tests<br />
include:<br />
Flexible sigmoidoscopies<br />
allow physicians to see inside<br />
the lower colon and rectum<br />
through a narrow tube w<strong>it</strong>h a small<br />
camera attached to one end, called a<br />
sigmoidoscope. This is also an effective<br />
tool for finding the cause of unexplained<br />
symptoms, such as anal bleeding, unusual<br />
bowel activ<strong>it</strong>y, and abdominal pain. A<br />
large part of the colon, however, is not<br />
screened w<strong>it</strong>h this procedure.<br />
Virtual colonoscopies<br />
enable physicians to see inside<br />
the body using X-rays and a<br />
computer to create images of the colon<br />
and rectum. A virtual colonoscopy, or<br />
CT colonoscopy, can see ulcers, polyps,<br />
and cancer. If polyps are seen, a regular<br />
colonoscopy is needed to remove them.<br />
Double-contrast barium<br />
enemas also enable doctors<br />
to view the colon and<br />
rectum using X-rays.<br />
Stool DNA (sDNA) test<br />
identify abnormal sections<br />
of DNA from cancer or<br />
polyp cells, as cancer cells often show<br />
DNA mutations in certain genes.<br />
Guaiac-based fecal occult<br />
blood test (FOBT) or fecal<br />
immunochemical test (FIT)<br />
tests that detect blood hidden in the<br />
stool. If the results are pos<strong>it</strong>ive for<br />
hidden blood, a colonoscopy will be<br />
needed to investigate further.<br />
RISK FACTORS<br />
ɠɠ<br />
Age: People age 50 and over have a<br />
higher risk of developing colorectal<br />
cancer. However, colorectal cancer in<br />
people under 50 is rising, accounting for<br />
10 percent of cases.<br />
ɠɠ<br />
Family History: People w<strong>it</strong>h a family<br />
history of colorectal polyps along w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
a family history of colorectal cancer<br />
are at greater risk. Those w<strong>it</strong>h a family<br />
history of polyps or colorectal cancer<br />
should consult a doctor about screening<br />
frequency.<br />
ɠɠ<br />
ɠɠ<br />
ɠɠ<br />
ɠɠ<br />
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: People<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h inflammatory bowel disease have a<br />
higher risk of colorectal cancer.<br />
Diet: Diets that contain large amounts<br />
of red and processed meats can<br />
increase risk.<br />
Personal Health: Overweight and<br />
inactive people are at a higher risk.<br />
Type 2 diabetes has been linked to an<br />
increased risk of colorectal cancer.<br />
People w<strong>it</strong>h a history of polyps are<br />
also at an increased risk, and may need<br />
earlier or more frequent screening.<br />
Long-term smoking and heavy alcohol<br />
use raise the risk as well.<br />
Lynch Syndrome (HNPCC): This<br />
inher<strong>it</strong>ed cond<strong>it</strong>ion affecting the body’s<br />
genes increases risk of colorectal<br />
cancer. Lynch syndrome is responsible<br />
for 3 percent of colorectal cancers, and<br />
those w<strong>it</strong>h the cond<strong>it</strong>ion have a lifetime<br />
risk of up to 80 percent of developing<br />
colorectal cancer. Genetic testing<br />
can determine if a person has the<br />
gene mutation associated w<strong>it</strong>h Lynch<br />
syndrome.<br />
Although all men and women over the age<br />
of 50 should be regularly tested, certain risk<br />
factors, like personal history of inflammatory<br />
bowel disease or family history of colorectal<br />
cancer, may impact the screening frequency<br />
or starting age.<br />
BITE THE BULLET<br />
March is colon cancer awareness month.<br />
If you’re due for a screening, schedule<br />
an appointment w<strong>it</strong>h your physician to<br />
discuss prevention and get a colonoscopy if<br />
necessary. Now that you know your options,<br />
<strong>it</strong>’s time to move <strong>it</strong> from your “to-do” to your<br />
“done” list. You won’t regret the decision.<br />
DANIEL FARRAY, M.D. AND<br />
HABIB GHADDAR, M.D., FACP<br />
Daniel Farray, M.D. and Habib Ghaddar, M.D., FACP<br />
are medical oncologists and hematologist at Texas<br />
Oncology–Weslaco, 1330 E. 6th Street, Su<strong>it</strong>e 204<br />
in Weslaco, Texas. To learn more about exc<strong>it</strong>ing<br />
advancements in cancer treatment, vis<strong>it</strong> www.<br />
TexasOncology.com or call 1-888-864-I CAN (4226).<br />
14 HEALTHY MAGAZINE 15 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · FEBRUARY 2018<br />
TOP FIVE<br />
CANCER<br />
TRENDS<br />
IN 2018<br />
New developments in cancer<br />
care provide more options<br />
and optimism for the 120,000<br />
Texans diagnosed each year<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h cancer. Texas Oncology<br />
physicians have identified the following top<br />
cancer trends for 2018:<br />
TOPPLING CANCER TYPE<br />
1. AND LOCATION<br />
Ten years ago, we looked at cancer<br />
primarily by the subtype location, be <strong>it</strong><br />
breast, lung, melanoma, or colon cancer.<br />
Today, we better understand distinct<br />
molecular pathways, enabling us to target<br />
and personalize treatment plans regardless<br />
of the cancer location. Five years ago, we<br />
conducted testing for only a handful of<br />
cancer factors. Now we test for more than<br />
50 genetic markers to make evidence-based<br />
decisions on the best treatment options.<br />
Patients appreciate that we’re treating their<br />
tumor rather than just a generic cancer.<br />
2. REDUCING<br />
CHEMOTHERAPY<br />
Although chemotherapy remains a<br />
primary way we treat cancer, innovations<br />
based on studying gene mutations w<strong>it</strong>hin<br />
the cancer are an exc<strong>it</strong>ing trend. Through<br />
recent advances in molecular biology<br />
and immunotherapy – which uses the<br />
body’s immune system to fight cancer<br />
– personalized treatment can be more<br />
effective and less toxic than chemotherapy.<br />
Precision in radiation technology has<br />
advanced dramatically, targeting tumors<br />
w<strong>it</strong>hout harming healthy tissue. For example,<br />
we previously could treat but not cure<br />
metastatic stage IV cancer patients. For<br />
some, we can use stereotactic body radiation<br />
therapy (SBRT) and immunotherapy to<br />
achieve long-term control and possibly cure<br />
of disease.<br />
USING BIG DATA<br />
3. W<strong>it</strong>h many thousands of patients<br />
under <strong>it</strong>s care, Texas Oncology uses big data<br />
to glean powerful insights and discoveries,<br />
such as better understanding of genetic<br />
risk, new approaches to therapeutics, and<br />
trends in healthy living post-treatment.<br />
Oncology is a highly evidence-based specialty,<br />
and cancer data are cr<strong>it</strong>ical to treatment<br />
planning, which involves a careful balance of<br />
effectiveness, toxic<strong>it</strong>y, and cost. For more<br />
than a decade, we have participated in<br />
evidence-based pathways, using cancer data<br />
to improve outcomes. We use vast amounts<br />
of information on patient illnesses, Medicare<br />
data on services, and as well as total cost<br />
of care. We analyze patient outcomes,<br />
hosp<strong>it</strong>alizations, and ER vis<strong>it</strong>s to help us<br />
identify opportun<strong>it</strong>ies to change care delivery<br />
to improve outcomes and patient experience.<br />
SURVIVING AND<br />
4. THRIVING<br />
Better screening and treatment<br />
means more survivors who can enjoy<br />
better qual<strong>it</strong>y of life after cancer. Treatment<br />
breakthroughs that are less toxic mean<br />
fewer near and long-term side effects.<br />
Earlier detection and genetic testing provide<br />
better understanding of cancer risk and<br />
the opportun<strong>it</strong>y to treat cancer sooner,<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h greater success. Also, more people<br />
are qu<strong>it</strong>ting or avoiding smoking, leading to<br />
significantly lower lung cancer deaths.<br />
We believe that survivorship<br />
begins at diagnosis. That’s why we<br />
create a treatment plan for every<br />
patient, outlining all care options<br />
using evidence-based research. We<br />
guide patients and family members<br />
through every part of the treatment<br />
process, including post-treatment<br />
and adjusting to a new life as a<br />
cancer survivor.<br />
5. INCREASING<br />
PATIENT POWER<br />
In 2018, cancer patients are more<br />
involved in their treatment decisions<br />
than ever. Baby Boomers and succeeding<br />
generations have more access to information<br />
and tend to conduct their own cancer<br />
research. We encourage patients to discuss<br />
their goals and values w<strong>it</strong>h their doctors early<br />
and throughout treatment. Texas Oncology’s<br />
detailed treatment plans include the type<br />
and stage of cancer, the purpose and goal of<br />
treatment, and information on drugs and any<br />
side effects. Patients are free to share the<br />
plan w<strong>it</strong>h family and friends so that everyone<br />
sharing in their cancer journey is informed.<br />
We are exc<strong>it</strong>ed about promising trends in<br />
cancer that enable us to innovate w<strong>it</strong>h more<br />
effective treatments that lead to better<br />
outcomes and qual<strong>it</strong>y of life for patients<br />
during and after treatment.<br />
ALVARO RESTREPO, M.D.<br />
Alvaro Restrepo, M.D., Texas<br />
Oncology is a medical oncologist<br />
at Texas Oncology–McAllen, 1901<br />
South 2nd Street in McAllen, Texas.<br />
To learn more about exc<strong>it</strong>ing<br />
advancements in cancer treatment,<br />
vis<strong>it</strong> www.TexasOncology.com<br />
or call 1-888-864-I CAN (4226).<br />
16 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
Weslaco<br />
Texas Oncology delivers high-qual<strong>it</strong>y cancer care w<strong>it</strong>h leading-edge technology and advanced treatment<br />
options to help patients achieve “More breakthroughs. More victories.” in their fights against cancer.<br />
Texas Oncology, a pioneer in commun<strong>it</strong>y-based cancer care, is an independent oncology<br />
practice w<strong>it</strong>h s<strong>it</strong>es of service throughout Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Texas<br />
Oncology patients have the opportun<strong>it</strong>y to take part in some of the most<br />
promising clinical trials in the nation for a broad range of cancers. In<br />
fact, Texas Oncology has played an integral role in gaining Food<br />
and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for 29 of the<br />
latest cancer therapies.<br />
Habib Ghaddar, MD, FACP<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Ghaddar specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He is board-certified by the American Board of<br />
Internal Medicine in hematology and medical oncology. He received his medical degree from the American<br />
Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Beirut in Beirut, Lebanon. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Good<br />
Samar<strong>it</strong>an Hosp<strong>it</strong>al/John Hopkins Univers<strong>it</strong>y in Baltimore, Maryland. He completed his fellowship in<br />
hematology/oncology at The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. He has been in<br />
practice w<strong>it</strong>h Texas Oncology since 1995.<br />
Harlingen<br />
Marco A. Araneda, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Araneda specializes in medical oncology and is board-certified in internal medicine and medical<br />
oncology. He received his medical degree from San Carlos Univers<strong>it</strong>y in Guatemala and completed a<br />
medical oncology fellowship at East Tennessee State Univers<strong>it</strong>y, Johnson C<strong>it</strong>y, Tennessee, as well as a<br />
fellowship in bone marrow transplantation at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. He has special<br />
interests in breast cancer, gastrointestinal malignancies, hematologic malignancies, and molecular<br />
targeted therapy.<br />
Nabeel Sarhill<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is board-certified in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine. He earned his<br />
medical doctorate from the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Tishreen Medical School in Lattakia, Syria, and completed his<br />
residency in internal medicine at Case Wester Reserve Univers<strong>it</strong>y in Cleveland, Ohio. His fellowship in<br />
hematology was completed at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, and his<br />
clinical research fellowship in medicine and symptoms management at The Harry R. Horv<strong>it</strong>z Center for<br />
Palliative Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Nabeel Sarhill is a member of the American Society of Clinical<br />
Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Syrian Medical Association, Syrian Ministry of Health, American<br />
Board of Hematology, American Board of Medical Oncology, and the American Board of Internal Medicine.<br />
Benjamin West, MD<br />
Radiation Oncology<br />
Dr. West is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He was a physicist prior to becoming a physician.<br />
Daniel Farray, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Farray is board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He received his medical<br />
degree in 1998 from the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena in the Dominican Republic and completed<br />
his residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed his<br />
fellowship in medical oncology and hematology in 2006 at Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center/Loyola Univers<strong>it</strong>y<br />
Chicago. Dr. Farray ranked first in his medical school class. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical<br />
Oncology and American College of Physicians.<br />
Hayan Moualla, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Moualla completed his Internal Medicine residency followed by a fellowship in Geriatrics and later a<br />
fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of New Mexico in Albuquerque. For<br />
almost 5 years before joining Texas Oncology, Dr. Moualla practiced in beautiful southern Virginia. He is<br />
Board Certified in Hematology and Medical Oncology w<strong>it</strong>h special interest in elderly cancer and blood<br />
disorders. His emphasis is making sure that all patient understand their cond<strong>it</strong>ions well and have a good<br />
idea about available options. Dr. Moualla is married and has a boy and twin girls. His biggest pleasure is<br />
spending time w<strong>it</strong>h family. He also enjoys soccer, ping pong, badminton and swimming.<br />
Weslaco 1330 East 6th Street, Su<strong>it</strong>e 204 Weslaco, Texas 78596 PH: 956.969.0021 FAX: 956.968.9744<br />
www.TexasOncology.com<br />
Harlingen 2121 Pease Street, Su<strong>it</strong>e 101 Harlingen, Texas 78550 PH: 956.425.8845 FAX: 956.364.6793<br />
www.TexasOncology.com
McALLEN<br />
Billie J. Marek, MD, FACP<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Marek is board-certified and specializes in medical oncology and heamatology. He currently serves as a<br />
director of Texas Oncology and is the medical director for Texas Oncology-McAllen. He has served the Rio<br />
Grande Valley for the past 22 years as a medical oncologist and hematologist, has been recognized as a<br />
“Super Doctor” in oncology for five years in a row, and was recognized as Doctor of The Year for Rio<br />
Grande Regional. Dr. Marek received his medical degree from The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas Medical School at<br />
San Antonio. He completed his fellowship at The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.<br />
Nurul Wahid, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Wahid was fellowship-trained in medical oncology and hematology at Columbia Univers<strong>it</strong>y College of<br />
Physicians and Surgeons in New York. He is board certified in Hematology and Oncology. He has been<br />
recognized as Physician of the Year at Rio Grande State Center in Harlingen where he has served as senior<br />
attending physician for the past 13 years.<br />
Rogelio Salinas, MD<br />
Radiation Oncology<br />
Dr. Salinas is a board-certified radiation oncologist. He completed his residency training at Memorial<br />
Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center in New York followed by his fellowship at The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas MD Anderson<br />
Cancer Center.<br />
Alvaro Restrepo, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
“I can be part of your team... and together we can fight the battle.” Dr. Restrepo specializes in, medical<br />
oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Miami. He also serves on the<br />
reast Cancer Comm<strong>it</strong>tee of US Oncology and has completed a fellowship in breast cancer treatment.<br />
Through the Life Beyond Cancer Fundation he established the Texas Oncology–McAllen Breast Cancer<br />
Ride/Walk undraiser to raise funds for Rio Grande Valley cancer patients. To date approximately $30,000 has<br />
been donated to cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley.<br />
Joseph L<strong>it</strong>am, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. L<strong>it</strong>am was fellowship-trained at The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He is well<br />
known in the commun<strong>it</strong>y and was in private practice for 27 years before joining Texas Oncology. He has special<br />
interest in treating solid tumors.<br />
Suresh Ratnam, MD, FACP<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Ratnam has been w<strong>it</strong>h Texas Oncology-McAllen for 13 years, which he joined after completing his<br />
fellowship at the renowned National Cancer Inst<strong>it</strong>ute at the National Inst<strong>it</strong>utes of Health. He has<br />
co-authored several research publications and is passionate about cutting-edge oncology care. He currently<br />
serves on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Comm<strong>it</strong>tee of US Oncology and chairman of the Credentials<br />
Comm<strong>it</strong>tee for South Texas Health System.<br />
Guillermo Lazo, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr. Lazo specializes in medical oncology and hematology. He completed his fellowship at The Univers<strong>it</strong>y of<br />
Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a recipient of several awards including the American Society of<br />
Clinical Oncology Mer<strong>it</strong> Award and is the author of several peer-reviewed medical publications as well as<br />
book chapters. He received the highest honors on the professional examination for his medical doctorate<br />
degree.<br />
Phoebe Verano, RN, FNP-BC<br />
Nurse Pract<strong>it</strong>ioner<br />
Benjamin West, MD<br />
Radiation Oncology<br />
Dr. West is board-certified radiation oncologist. He was physicist prior to becoming a physician.<br />
Phoebe Cepeda Verano is a certified Family Nurse Practioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who<br />
received her Masters degree at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas- Pan American (UTPA) in 2013. She has more than<br />
30 years of experience as a registered nurse, most of <strong>it</strong> in an adult cr<strong>it</strong>ical care setting. As a nurse<br />
pract<strong>it</strong>ioner, she has the compassion to be a part of a patient’s journey through cancer care and believes<br />
that patient education is an important first step following diagnosis and treatment plan development. “I<br />
am comm<strong>it</strong>ted to preparing cancer patients for their journeys and assuring they know that we are always<br />
here to support them.”<br />
Cristel<strong>it</strong>a Parrocho, RN, BSN,CCRN,MSN,FNP-C<br />
Nurse Practicioner<br />
Cristy graduated as a Family Nurse Pract<strong>it</strong>ioner from Charles R. Drew Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Medicine and Science in<br />
California. She is also a certified Adult Cr<strong>it</strong>ical Care Registered Nurse. Before joining Texas Oncology-McAllen<br />
she was a hosp<strong>it</strong>alist w<strong>it</strong>h IPC Healthcare. “Cancer is brutal but I believe loving and actually feeling while you<br />
care for these patients will somehow bring upon sunshine in the darkest moments of their lives. It is not<br />
how much time but how much love you put into <strong>it</strong>.”<br />
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546<br />
www.TexasOncology.com<br />
McAllen 1901 South 2nd Street McAllen, Texas 78503 PH: 956.687.5150 FAX: 956.687.9546<br />
www.TexasOncology.com
Brownsville<br />
Balesh Sharma, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Balesh Sharma, MD specializes in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. He is board certified by in<br />
medical oncology. Dr. Sharma received an MD Delhi Univers<strong>it</strong>y in New Delhi, India, in 1990, where he also<br />
completed his residency in Anesthesia and Cr<strong>it</strong>ical Care in 1991. He completed his medical internship at Lincoln<br />
Medical Center in New York in 1992-93. Dr. Sharma completed his residency in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s<br />
Medical Center in affiliation w<strong>it</strong>h Yale Univers<strong>it</strong>y School of Medicine, Connecticut. In 1998, he completed a<br />
fellowship in hematology and oncology from Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and has<br />
been in private practice since then.<br />
Marcelo Boek, MD<br />
Medical Oncology/Hematology<br />
Dr Marcelo M Boek specializes in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology/Hematology. He is board certified in<br />
Medical Oncology and Hematology. He received his medical degree from Federal Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Rio Grande do Sul<br />
in Brazil. He also completed his Internal Medicine residency at Jackson Memorial Hosp<strong>it</strong>al- Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Miami.<br />
In 2003 he completed his Fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology at John Strogger- Cook County<br />
Hosp<strong>it</strong>al in Chicago. Dr Boek then worked as a Medical Oncologist at The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency at The<br />
Allan Blair Cancer Centre in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, and as an investigator affiliated w<strong>it</strong>h The North<br />
Central Cancer Treatment Group and the National Cancer Inst<strong>it</strong>ute of Canada. He was also appointed as a Clinical<br />
Assistant Professor w<strong>it</strong>h the Division of Oncology, College of Medicine at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of Saskatchewan and<br />
held this job until he moved back to the Un<strong>it</strong>ed States. Dr Boek joined Texas Oncology in 2006<br />
Carlos Gonzalez-Angulo, MD<br />
Radiation Oncology<br />
Dr. Gonzalez specializes in radiation oncology and internal medicine. He is certified by the American Board of<br />
Internal Medicine as well as the American Board of Radiology, and is a member of the American Society of<br />
Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO). He completed his<br />
fellowship in radiation oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Inst<strong>it</strong>ute, in Buffalo, New York, and also completed a<br />
second residency in radiation oncology at Jackson Memorial Hosp<strong>it</strong>al/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center,<br />
in Miami, Florida. Aside from his medical practice, Dr. Gonzalez is a Christian lay minister and a student of<br />
ancient Greek.<br />
Mariza D. Oliver, MSN, APRN, FNP-C<br />
Advanced Practice Provider<br />
Mariza is a certified Family Nurse Pract<strong>it</strong>ioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, and has a Masters degree in<br />
Nursing Administration. She has over 17 years experience in nursing and has worked in healthcare areas such as<br />
medical-surgical, post-partum, hospice, and home health. She has extensive experience in providing care for the<br />
adult and geriatric population of the Rio Grande Valley.<br />
2150 N. Expressway 83 Brownsville, TX 78521 PH: 956-548-0810 FAX: 956-548-2239 www.TexasOncology.com<br />
FITNESS & BEAUTY · MARCH 2018<br />
THE DOS & DON’TS<br />
OF SKINCARE<br />
I’m sure you’ve seen them. YouTube and<br />
Instagram are full of them. Beauty bloggers<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h elaborate skincare routines that cost a<br />
fortune. They're everywhere, mainstream.<br />
And If you’re like me – a skincare aficionado<br />
wannabe – you want what they have and<br />
more. You can’t wa<strong>it</strong> to get your hands<br />
on the products that make up their fancy<br />
Korean 10-step process. You dream about<br />
<strong>it</strong>. You know that <strong>it</strong> is the answer to your<br />
skincare dreams, but that’s where the<br />
adoration stops. If you were to get those<br />
products, would you know how to use<br />
them? Sure, you can follow the videos, but<br />
qual<strong>it</strong>y skincare is more than a few simple<br />
instructions from a social media star. It’s<br />
an artform. How does a novice like you or<br />
I get what they have w<strong>it</strong>hout the break the<br />
bank cost and w<strong>it</strong>hout the time-consuming<br />
routine?<br />
We know the pressure is mounting. They<br />
make <strong>it</strong> look like everyone is using their<br />
methods and products. You’re convinced<br />
you’re lagging behind, but fear not, there are<br />
viable, affordable products that are of the<br />
same qual<strong>it</strong>y. You don’t have to skimp on the<br />
luxury factor if you know what to look for<br />
and what you must avoid. Trust us, we’ve got<br />
you covered w<strong>it</strong>h a few sensible tips to up<br />
your skincare game once and for all. The last<br />
thing any of us want to do is cause anymore<br />
damage to our skin.<br />
23 HEALTHY MAGAZINE<br />
OUR TIPS:<br />
Try only one new product at a time. If<br />
you go all in w<strong>it</strong>h a complete and total<br />
overhaul, you’re asking for trouble. As<br />
they say, ‘don’t throw out the baby<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h the bathwater’. If you go full hog<br />
on the products, then how will you<br />
know which product works, which is<br />
a dud (for you), which you can’t get<br />
enough of, and which cause that uh-oh<br />
on the bridge of your nose? As w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
everything in life, take <strong>it</strong> slow. Baby<br />
steps still get you to your destination<br />
eventually, and trust us; <strong>it</strong>'ll be worth<br />
the trip. Try one out regularly for a<br />
week or two. See how <strong>it</strong> looks or feels.<br />
If a product works for you w<strong>it</strong>h no side<br />
effects, then, go ahead and try another<br />
product.<br />
Give products time to work. Your skin,<br />
like all other organs in your body, can<br />
do miraculous things. Your skin has<br />
the abil<strong>it</strong>y to regenerate <strong>it</strong>self. That<br />
makes <strong>it</strong> one of the most powerful<br />
organs in the body. That power<br />
doesn’t work <strong>it</strong>s magic overnight<br />
though. While you might see some<br />
marked changes right away, you won’t<br />
reap all the benef<strong>it</strong>s of a new product<br />
or treatment for twenty-eight days at<br />
the very least and up to six weeks to<br />
see the full effects. If you’re wa<strong>it</strong>ing<br />
for your skin to tighten, be patient and<br />
measure the results.<br />
Don’t destroy your one and only<br />
moisture barrier. Over-exfoliating is<br />
one of the biggest culpr<strong>it</strong>s that attack<br />
your body’s natural moisture barrier.<br />
Theirs is no correlation between<br />
scrubbing your skin raw and having<br />
great skin. You need that barrier to<br />
keep bacteria out and lock hydration<br />
in. Try exfoliating once a week at most<br />
for optimal results.<br />
Don’t panic if you see a pimple.<br />
Because one appears doesn’t<br />
mean you’ll have a full-blown<br />
breakout. It happens once in a while.<br />
Overtreatment of your skin can make<br />
pimples appear. Again, be gentle w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
your skin. Slow and steady wins the<br />
race w<strong>it</strong>h great skincare.<br />
By Claudia Portillo
ACHALASIA<br />
Achalasia. The name evokes a flower, or something sweet, but <strong>it</strong> is actually<br />
drawn from ancient greek— khalsis, a loosening. The Prefix “A-” negates<br />
that. So the word <strong>it</strong>self is qu<strong>it</strong>e descriptive, meaning, simply, an inabil<strong>it</strong>y to<br />
loosen. Loosen what, exactly? In the most basic terms, one’s throat: Achalasia<br />
is an inabil<strong>it</strong>y to swallow solids and liquids. For those searching for a more precise<br />
picture, <strong>it</strong> takes place in the muscular layer of the lower esophagus, where <strong>it</strong> empties<br />
into the stomach. The disorder causes these muscles fail to relax during swallowing.<br />
This is caused in part by a lack of peristalsis, normal esophageal waves which help w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
swallowing, making <strong>it</strong> difficult to pass the food bolus into the stomach.<br />
As for who should be interested, this<br />
disease affects adults, mostly. Especially<br />
those in their 30s through their 50s<br />
(although I have seen <strong>it</strong> in younger<br />
patients). Unfortunately, l<strong>it</strong>tle is known<br />
about whether there are any direct<br />
genetic or lifestyle causes for Achalasia.<br />
It is believed that anyone can develop <strong>it</strong>.<br />
However, <strong>it</strong> is a rare disorder, occurring<br />
only in one to two per two hundred<br />
thousand people.<br />
The main symptoms of this disorder<br />
include a progressive difficulty swallowing<br />
that often leads to a choking sensation,<br />
regurg<strong>it</strong>ation, the sp<strong>it</strong>ting up of undigested<br />
food, heartburn, chest pain behind the<br />
breast bone, and weight loss. This can lead<br />
to a number of health hazards including:<br />
malnutr<strong>it</strong>ion, pneumonia, and the risk of<br />
aspirating food, liquids, saliva, and other<br />
stomach contents.<br />
The treatment is often a multi-specialty<br />
approach, in which patients are usually<br />
started on medications that help relax the<br />
esophagus. Often, however, medications<br />
alone are not enough, and endoscopic<br />
dilation is then implemented. The gold<br />
standard therapy is a minimally invasive<br />
approach where the defective fibers<br />
around the esophagus are individually<br />
divided in order to allow complete<br />
relaxation of the esophagus and a<br />
resolution of the swallowing difficulties.<br />
This surgical procedure is called a Heller<br />
Myotomy, and <strong>it</strong> has a success rate greater<br />
than ninety percent.<br />
Truth is, when treated<br />
correctly by an experienced<br />
surgeon, patients tend to<br />
do very well— having more<br />
than 90 percent resolution.<br />
However, that isn’t exactly a<br />
call to rejoice. Treatment can<br />
often become challenging<br />
when patients seek help<br />
late in diagnosis, and their<br />
esophagus is at the point<br />
where <strong>it</strong> no longer works.<br />
Other similar s<strong>it</strong>uations include patients<br />
who have already undergone other<br />
treatment modal<strong>it</strong>ies, such as botox<br />
injections, which have failed. These<br />
patients tend to be placed at higher<br />
subsequent surgical risks.<br />
As for how I usually come across<br />
Achalasia, this is such a rare disorder that<br />
patients are typically referred to me by<br />
GI Specialists, Primary Care Providers,<br />
and other Surgeons in the commun<strong>it</strong>y.<br />
But, occasionally I will have a patient<br />
who shows up to the office w<strong>it</strong>h these<br />
symptoms. If you feel that you have<br />
been bothered by a number of them,<br />
then please do not hes<strong>it</strong>ate to make an<br />
appointment and have <strong>it</strong> checked out.<br />
Remember, <strong>it</strong> has a high rate of resolution,<br />
but the longer you wa<strong>it</strong>, the more likely <strong>it</strong><br />
is to become a problem.<br />
ÁNGEL TAMEZ, MD<br />
General Surgery, Bariatric<br />
A native of the Rio Grande Valley, Dr. Tamez<br />
obtained his medical degree at the Univers<strong>it</strong>y of<br />
Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Upon<br />
completion of his surgical residency at Loma<br />
Linda Univers<strong>it</strong>y Medical Center in California,<br />
Dr. Tamez obtained fellowship training in<br />
Minimally Invasive Surgery & Bariatrics at Wake<br />
Forest Univers<strong>it</strong>y Medical Center in North<br />
Carolina. Dr. Tamez specializes in General Surgery<br />
using the latest minimally invasive techniques<br />
promoting faster recovery times and the best<br />
results.<br />
“<br />
My goal is to provide the best<br />
medical care available to my<br />
patients w<strong>it</strong>h compassion.<br />
”
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
COLON AND<br />
RECTAL<br />
CANCER<br />
AWARENESS:<br />
Am I at risk?<br />
Nationwide, cancer is the second<br />
cause of death in America<br />
after cardiac diseases. It<br />
is estimated that over<br />
125,000 men and women a year<br />
are diagnosed w<strong>it</strong>h colon and<br />
rectal cancer. Colorectal<br />
cancer is the second leading<br />
cause of cancer death<br />
and takes the lives of<br />
approximately 50,000<br />
people a year. A significant<br />
amount of these could<br />
be avoided, if everyone<br />
between the ages of 50 to 75<br />
took preventative measures<br />
and had regular screening<br />
tests.<br />
What is Colorectal Cancer?<br />
It is cancer that occurs in the colon<br />
and rectum. The colon is also known as<br />
the large bowel or the large intestine. It is<br />
pos<strong>it</strong>ioned after the small intestine and ends<br />
at the anus.<br />
Colorectal cancer screenings can save<br />
lives. Most of colon and rectal cancer<br />
originates from polyps. Polyps are a small<br />
abnormal growth of the lining of the colon<br />
and the purpose of colorectal screening<br />
tests is to find those polyps so that they<br />
can be removed before they turn into<br />
cancer. If everybody had a colonoscopy<br />
as recommended, <strong>it</strong> is estimated that<br />
more than half of colon cancer could be<br />
prevented. When diagnosed, colon cancer<br />
can be cured if detected on time during a<br />
screening test.<br />
A screening colonoscopy is recommended<br />
for both men and women starting at the<br />
age of 50 as preventative care. The main<br />
purpose of a colonoscopy is to identify,<br />
remove and analyze polyps to eliminate the<br />
potential risk of cancer. A colonoscopy may<br />
be recommended at an earlier age for the<br />
following reasons: a strong family history of<br />
colon cancer, diagnosis of an inflammatory<br />
bowel disease, or has a specific genetic<br />
cond<strong>it</strong>ion predisposing to colon and rectal<br />
cancer.<br />
A screening<br />
colonoscopy is<br />
recommended for<br />
both men and women<br />
starting at the age of<br />
50 as preventative<br />
care.<br />
What are the symptoms of<br />
Colorectal Cancer?<br />
There may be no symptoms<br />
at first if a person has<br />
polyps or colorectal<br />
cancer. However,<br />
typically symptoms<br />
may include: blood in<br />
the stools, abdominal<br />
pain, anemia,<br />
change (shape or<br />
consistency) in<br />
bowel movements<br />
and/or unexplained<br />
loss of weight. If you<br />
or a loved one have<br />
any of these symptoms<br />
or are at high risk, talk to<br />
your doctor about having<br />
earlier or more frequent<br />
testing if you think you’re at<br />
risk of colorectal cancer.<br />
Colon cancer is usually treated by surgical<br />
removal along w<strong>it</strong>h chemotherapy treatment<br />
if the cancer has spread to the surrounding<br />
lymph nodes. Laparoscopic technique is<br />
usually recommended and has the benef<strong>it</strong><br />
of decreased post-operative pain and earlier<br />
hosp<strong>it</strong>al discharge. Rectal cancer on the<br />
other hand often requires radiation and<br />
chemotherapy before surgery.<br />
Colorectal screening tests are normally<br />
covered by Medicare or most insurance<br />
plans. Check w<strong>it</strong>h your insurance to find out<br />
which tests are covered.<br />
By Dominique Vande Maele M.D.<br />
26 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
HEALTHIER<br />
AFTER A<br />
GASTRIC<br />
BYPASS<br />
SURGERY<br />
I FIRST MET MS. VEGA<br />
ON APRIL 5, 2017. The most important<br />
thought in my mind at that time was getting her in the operating<br />
room as soon as possible. The results of the imaging tests done<br />
on arrival to the Emergency Room were defin<strong>it</strong>e and cr<strong>it</strong>ical. They<br />
indicated the presence of bowel ischemia, which meant that at<br />
least some of her small intestine was lacking blood supply due to an<br />
internal hernia, which is a potential complication of gastric bypass<br />
surgery. For this cond<strong>it</strong>ion, time<br />
was crucial and this was a life –<br />
threatening s<strong>it</strong>uation. She had a<br />
gastric bypass at an outside facil<strong>it</strong>y<br />
over 3 years prior, and although she<br />
experienced frequent episodes of<br />
abdominal pain, the cause had not<br />
been determined.<br />
I explained her cond<strong>it</strong>ion to Ms.<br />
Vega, listed a laundry list of risks<br />
and tried to convey the grav<strong>it</strong>y of her cond<strong>it</strong>ion, but her eyes told<br />
me she knew all too well that her cond<strong>it</strong>ion was cr<strong>it</strong>ical. Her words<br />
still make my body tense up. She said “I have 3 kids, I need to get<br />
back home to them, do whatever you need to do”. Unfortunately,<br />
this led to over two months in the hosp<strong>it</strong>al, malnourishment, fatigue<br />
and a drastic change to her life. And yet, we are truly blessed, for she<br />
is at home w<strong>it</strong>h her kids, she is slowly regaining her energy, and her<br />
wounds have completely healed.<br />
BEFORE<br />
“<br />
I explained her cond<strong>it</strong>ion to Ms. Vega,<br />
listed a laundry list of risks and tried<br />
to convey the grav<strong>it</strong>y of her cond<strong>it</strong>ion,<br />
but her eyes told me she knew all too<br />
well that her cond<strong>it</strong>ion was cr<strong>it</strong>ical.<br />
AFTER<br />
Through all of this, Ms. Vega never lost her resilience and her<br />
strength. We both want to share her experience to raise awareness<br />
about the long-term complications of bariatric or weight loss<br />
surgery. This is a topic that many people may not be familiar<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h. Each day, more patients are benef<strong>it</strong>ing from weight loss<br />
surgery. However, there may be subtle symptoms that should not<br />
be ignored. Some of these long-term complications include ulcers,<br />
nutr<strong>it</strong>ional and v<strong>it</strong>amin deficiencies, and internal hernias or bowel<br />
obstruction. Ulcers are rare and occur in 1% of patients, internal<br />
hernias may occur in approximately 5%,<br />
yet nutr<strong>it</strong>ional deficiencies may be a<br />
prevalent as 80%.<br />
For patients who have undergone<br />
gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy,<br />
I strongly recommend regular yearly<br />
follow up w<strong>it</strong>h their surgeon. At the<br />
very least, yearly follow up of labs<br />
and v<strong>it</strong>amin levels should be done.<br />
Importantly, if anyone w<strong>it</strong>h a history of<br />
a gastric bypass surgery is experiencing pain shortly after meals, he<br />
or she should discuss any associated symptoms or patterns of this to<br />
rule out an internal hernia.<br />
Today, Ms. Vega continues to be compliant w<strong>it</strong>h her v<strong>it</strong>amins, fluids,<br />
and protein intake. Desp<strong>it</strong>e what she went through, she does not<br />
regret having had a gastric bypass as this improved her qual<strong>it</strong>y of life<br />
and her health.<br />
By Veronica T. Guerrero, MD<br />
28 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
FITNESS & BEAUTY · MARCH 2018<br />
THE<br />
TRUTH<br />
ABOUT<br />
SKIN<br />
SHRINK<br />
Have you ever met someone whose<br />
face tells you everything? Are you one<br />
those people? Ever wonder what’s<br />
<strong>it</strong>’s like to live w<strong>it</strong>h a face that often<br />
betrays your innermost thoughts?<br />
Well, I know what <strong>it</strong>’s like because my face gives me<br />
away all the time. Just one day, for one moment, I’d<br />
love to be one of those people who has a plain, old<br />
boring face, one that doesn’t give anything away<br />
before my heart or head are aware of what my true feelings are. As<br />
if that’s not bad enough, my adult acne adds yet another layer of<br />
redness that I’ve spent my life trying to get out from under, if you will.<br />
Here I was, leading a ‘normal’ life.<br />
I’d survived the teen years. I’d<br />
moved past any acne issues and<br />
somehow in my early 20s moved<br />
right into adult acne terr<strong>it</strong>ory.<br />
After years of hormonal ups<br />
and downs, flare-ups, and a few<br />
rather ugly bouts during college,<br />
I thought I’d finally get a resp<strong>it</strong>e.<br />
I thought I was done. Nature –<br />
rather, my skin – felt otherwise.<br />
Instead of allowing <strong>it</strong> to take over<br />
and do <strong>it</strong>s thing, I decided to take<br />
preemptive action.<br />
I told myself that I wouldn’t go<br />
into my 30s w<strong>it</strong>h skin blemishes.<br />
I would finally have clear skin.<br />
There were plenty of options<br />
I hadn’t yet tried and others<br />
I might not have used to my<br />
advantage. It was time to make a<br />
change and go full-force w<strong>it</strong>h the<br />
alternative treatments. My game<br />
plan? They say, ‘go big or go<br />
home’. So I’m going big. First up,<br />
a nutr<strong>it</strong>ionist to help me make<br />
the best choices w<strong>it</strong>h natures<br />
own nutrients. Next, a doctor<br />
of alternative medicine. After<br />
hours after hours of exhaustive<br />
research, I learned qu<strong>it</strong>e a b<strong>it</strong><br />
about the dos and don’ts of<br />
skincare. I knew for sure that I<br />
didn’t want anything that could<br />
have adverse effects.<br />
In my opinion, the best discovery<br />
wasn’t a stellar dermatologist,<br />
but someone whose life’s work<br />
is the psychology of skin. How<br />
amazing is that? Did you know<br />
these people even existed?<br />
They’re at the forefront of an<br />
untapped market that could<br />
be a gamechanger for so many<br />
people across the globe. They<br />
are experts in a new field known<br />
as psychodermatology – a bona<br />
fide skin shrink. Using hypnosis<br />
and med<strong>it</strong>ation techniques, these<br />
pract<strong>it</strong>ioners treat the skin from<br />
the inside out. Their unique<br />
approach addresses the direct<br />
link between skin blemishes/<br />
acne w<strong>it</strong>h emotional issues. They<br />
believe there is a connection<br />
between stress and acne. The<br />
working theory is that the stress<br />
precedes the acne breakouts.<br />
They are essentially a trigger<br />
for acne, at any age. This unique<br />
approach has mer<strong>it</strong>. Anyone<br />
who has dealt w<strong>it</strong>h chronic acne<br />
knows that certain things trigger<br />
flare-ups, so <strong>it</strong> only makes sense<br />
that the stressors we feel as we<br />
age would impact our skin later<br />
in life. The negative emotions we<br />
had when we were experiencing<br />
teen acne outbreaks are the<br />
same kind of emotions we’ll feel<br />
as an adult.<br />
Our notions of self-esteem<br />
are rolled into our outward<br />
appearance. It’s part of our<br />
makeup. Negativ<strong>it</strong>y festers,<br />
therefore, creating a swinging<br />
pendulum between self-doubt<br />
and self-consciousness.<br />
It becomes a<br />
vicious cycle we<br />
may not have the<br />
coping skills to<br />
address w<strong>it</strong>hout<br />
a l<strong>it</strong>tle help. And<br />
that help can come<br />
in the form of<br />
skin shrinking. It<br />
works on both the<br />
outward scars and<br />
the deep, emotional<br />
scars we may be<br />
holding w<strong>it</strong>h us.<br />
30 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MARCH 2018<br />
CELLULITE:<br />
WHAT CAUSES IT<br />
AND HOW TO MAKE<br />
IT GO AWAY<br />
the dreaded cellul<strong>it</strong>e – the one thing women<br />
Oh, fear, and men never even notice. Ninety percent<br />
of women and up to ten percent of men will be affected<br />
at some point in their lives. This regular occurrence often<br />
appears abnormal on the skin. W<strong>it</strong>h <strong>it</strong>’s lumpy, orange-peel<br />
like appearance, <strong>it</strong> can cover large surfaces of the skin,<br />
most notably, the legs, arms, and buttocks. You’re more<br />
likely to develop cellul<strong>it</strong>e if you lead an inactive lifestyle, s<strong>it</strong><br />
for long periods of time on a regular basis, experience the<br />
reduction of estrogen during menopause, or suffer from<br />
hyperinsulinemia.<br />
This puckering of the skin occurs when the<br />
layer of fat that s<strong>it</strong>s just beneath the skin<br />
pushes against the connective tissue and<br />
bulges. That causes a cottage cheese or<br />
orange peel-like appearance. Unfortunately<br />
for women, the risk of developing cellul<strong>it</strong>e<br />
increases exponentially w<strong>it</strong>h menopause and<br />
increased age.<br />
When a woman experiences hormonal<br />
changes, she undoubtedly will experience<br />
a decline in estrogen levels. These changes<br />
may contribute to changes in circulation and<br />
a reduction in the production of collagen.<br />
Fat cells become larger or increase in<br />
numbers. The collagen layer thins. Those<br />
factors in combination w<strong>it</strong>h a change in the<br />
blood supply all contribute to or lead to<br />
the production of cellul<strong>it</strong>e. While unsightly,<br />
cellul<strong>it</strong>e isn’t dangerous. There is no pain<br />
associated w<strong>it</strong>h the production of <strong>it</strong>.<br />
Nutr<strong>it</strong>ion also plays a role in the production<br />
of cellul<strong>it</strong>e. High levels of carbohydrates in<br />
the diet increase the risk of hyperinsulinemia.<br />
This increases the formation of fat cells and<br />
growth of the current cells.<br />
There are four distinct stages of<br />
development of cellul<strong>it</strong>e. Generally, they<br />
start at or about sixteen years of age.<br />
<br />
Grade 0: No cellul<strong>it</strong>e present<br />
<br />
Grade 1: Smooth skin while in a standing<br />
pos<strong>it</strong>ion, bumps and dimples while<br />
s<strong>it</strong>ting<br />
<br />
Grade 2: Cottage cheese appearance<br />
when s<strong>it</strong>ting or standing<br />
<br />
Grade 3: Orange peel appearance while<br />
s<strong>it</strong>ting or standing w<strong>it</strong>h deep raised and<br />
depressed areas.<br />
Currently, there is no known cure for<br />
cellul<strong>it</strong>e. The over-the-counter treatments<br />
make grand claims to know the secret to<br />
eliminating cellul<strong>it</strong>e for good, but none<br />
have been proven, and often, the results<br />
have been disappointing. However, there<br />
are smart strategies that may reduce the<br />
appearance of cellul<strong>it</strong>e temporarily.<br />
Dry Skin Brushing has<br />
many benef<strong>it</strong>s, not only<br />
for aesthetic reasons.<br />
This technique offers<br />
benef<strong>it</strong>s for the whole<br />
body as well.<br />
It might help to soften hard fat depos<strong>it</strong>s<br />
below the skin and help to distribute fat<br />
depos<strong>it</strong>s more evenly throughout the body.<br />
This helps to reduce the visibil<strong>it</strong>y of the<br />
cellul<strong>it</strong>e. It also stimulates the lymphatic<br />
system, increases circulation, improves<br />
digestion, and exfoliates the skin.<br />
Myofascial Release is an effective technique<br />
used to release tissue restrictions in the<br />
connective tissue that s<strong>it</strong>s just beneath the<br />
surface of the skin. Most often, <strong>it</strong> is caused<br />
by inflammation, surgical procedures, and/or<br />
trauma.<br />
Coffee scrubs work to<br />
stimulate lymphatic<br />
flow (blood) to an<br />
area can also exfoliate<br />
and tighten the skin. A<br />
scrub can be made w<strong>it</strong>h<br />
coconut oil and finely ground<br />
coffee beans to form a facial mask which<br />
can tighten the skin. One could also choose<br />
laser or light therapy, even acoustic wave<br />
therapy. All help break down fat molecules<br />
or decrease in the visibil<strong>it</strong>y of cellul<strong>it</strong>e.<br />
By Sarah Wester<br />
32 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY FOOD · MARCH 2018<br />
After years of study and debate<br />
about substances known as<br />
antioxidants, research has shown<br />
that they can make the difference<br />
between someone developing<br />
skin cancer or someone never<br />
having to suffer from this<br />
entirely preventable disease.<br />
Dermatologists have finally caught<br />
on to this idea and are actively<br />
advising patients to feast on<br />
nutrient-dense foods. Some are<br />
even suggesting that their patients<br />
apply topical products containing<br />
antioxidants in add<strong>it</strong>ion to their<br />
sunscreens.<br />
“<br />
Good health<br />
and good sense<br />
are two of life’s<br />
greatest blessings.<br />
”<br />
— Publilius Syrus<br />
Combing the use of antioxidant-rich<br />
foods and supplements is best for<br />
disease prevention. Be mindful that<br />
high doses of v<strong>it</strong>amins could also be<br />
detrimental to your health. Stick to the<br />
recommended daily amounts of any<br />
supplement or nutrient.<br />
You protect yourself against<br />
harmful UV rays. You know you<br />
should wear sunscreen and a<br />
hat when you go outside. You<br />
wear sunglasses, try not to get<br />
too much sun exposure, you’ve<br />
bought the right clothes. You<br />
think you’ve done all that you<br />
can do to prevent skin cancer.<br />
The most common types of skin cancers<br />
are nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC).<br />
They include basal cell and squamous cell<br />
carcinoma (BCC and SCC). They’re the most<br />
common cancers in the Un<strong>it</strong>ed States of<br />
America. Over five million cases of NMSC<br />
are treated in at least three million people<br />
every year. Current research suggests that<br />
small dietary changes may be one way<br />
to bring those staggering numbers down<br />
dramatically.<br />
EXPERTS RECOMMEND<br />
THE FOLLOWING FOR BEST<br />
RESULTS:<br />
99<br />
V<strong>it</strong>amin C<br />
99<br />
V<strong>it</strong>amin A<br />
99<br />
V<strong>it</strong>amin E<br />
99<br />
Zinc<br />
99<br />
Selenium<br />
99<br />
Beta Carotene<br />
99<br />
Omega-3 fatty acids<br />
99<br />
Lycopene<br />
99<br />
Polyphenols<br />
Your doctor may have told you that an SPF<br />
15 or higher sunscreen is all you need before<br />
you even think about stepping one foot out<br />
the door, but now some new research has<br />
come to light. There might be a l<strong>it</strong>tle more<br />
you can do, and <strong>it</strong>’s delicious.<br />
Eating right. Studies have shown that<br />
consuming the right foods may help ward off<br />
skin cancer. The results have been promising<br />
in these studies. Adding another layer of<br />
protection to your skin cancer prevention<br />
measures won’t hurt. We promise.<br />
Most skin cancers are caused by sun<br />
damage blisters. Most occur because of<br />
overexposure to the sun directly or from<br />
tanning beds. (Side note: Tanning beds are<br />
not your friend. Avoid them at all costs.) UV<br />
exposure does considerable, life-altering, if<br />
not life-threatening, damage to your skin.<br />
It generates free radicals, nasty oxygen<br />
molecules that cause inflammation and<br />
damage normal, healthy, functioning cells<br />
and damage your skin’s DNA. That damage<br />
causes changes in your genes that in turn<br />
cause mutations that lead to a diagnosis of<br />
skin cancer.<br />
You can find most of these at any<br />
health food store. You can also find<br />
healthy doses of them in the foods<br />
that you eat, provided they’re not<br />
processed or sugar-laden. You want<br />
them in their most healthy state for<br />
optimum results. Most of those listed<br />
have also been shown to promote<br />
good heart health and to help protect<br />
against diabetes. Again, if consumed<br />
in moderation, according to the<br />
recommended daily value these foods<br />
can help you live a long, healthy life.<br />
WWW.HEALTHYMAGAZINE.COM<br />
34 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
FITNESS & BEAUTY · MARCH 2018<br />
You’ve<br />
got acne? You poor<br />
thing. <strong>Is</strong>n’t <strong>it</strong> the worst?<br />
No, of course not. Relax. Everything is going<br />
to be all right. You will get through this. Do<br />
you know how we know <strong>it</strong> will be all right?<br />
Well, because we’ve been there. We’ve seen<br />
<strong>it</strong> for ourselves. Call us survivors or simply<br />
consumers who figured out <strong>it</strong>’s not the end<br />
of the world. Acne happens to the best of<br />
us. Don’t waste your time worrying about <strong>it</strong>.<br />
Trust us; there will be plenty of things that<br />
happen to you in life that deserve your full<br />
attention. Acne isn’t one of them.<br />
So, what are you to do when you find acne?<br />
For starters, don’t panic. Don’t rush out to<br />
the dermatologist and stock up on expensive<br />
acne treatments. Stay far away from the<br />
overpriced pink drying lotion. Save your<br />
money and save your san<strong>it</strong>y. The answer you<br />
need is probably a lot closer to home. It’s the<br />
drugstore. They’re everywhere. Practically<br />
every block in America has at least one<br />
drugstore on <strong>it</strong>. They’re there for a reason.<br />
They’re convenient and often their products<br />
on friendly to your budget. So, grab your bag,<br />
your purse, your wallet and let’s go shopping:<br />
OVER THE COUNTER<br />
ACNE SOLUTIONS<br />
Peach Slices Acne<br />
01 Spot Dots, $4.49<br />
These by far are the best<br />
pimple care products<br />
money can buy. We kid you<br />
not. These hydrocolloid<br />
bandages drain the goop out of your pimples<br />
w<strong>it</strong>hout having to get your hands dirty. Wear<br />
them as directed and get rid of them when<br />
their job is done. It generally takes a day or<br />
two before you see results, but when you do,<br />
you’ll be hooked.<br />
02 Neosporin,<br />
$6.37<br />
Yes, we mean the germ<br />
fighter. It only makes<br />
sense that <strong>it</strong> would<br />
work wonders on<br />
your skin. It acts as an<br />
occlusive barrier. Place a dab on your popped<br />
pimple and let <strong>it</strong> work <strong>it</strong>s magic.<br />
Clean & Clear<br />
03 Advantage Acne<br />
Spot Treatment, $5.98<br />
This spot treatment is filled<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h 2% salicylic acid that will<br />
reduce redness and swelling<br />
and kill the germs w<strong>it</strong>hin<br />
the pores. Be careful after<br />
applying. You’ll need to apply<br />
lotion afterward because <strong>it</strong><br />
does have a drying agent, but that’s a risk you<br />
should be willing to take to zap out z<strong>it</strong>s.<br />
Burt’s Bees Herbal<br />
04 Complexion Stick, $8.49<br />
This 99.9% all-natural gem has so<br />
many all-natural healing powers<br />
you’ll wonder what you ever did<br />
w<strong>it</strong>hout <strong>it</strong>.<br />
By Vanessa Jackson<br />
Differin Gel, $11.39<br />
05 We’re so exc<strong>it</strong>ed<br />
about this one-time only<br />
available via a prescription<br />
formula. This beauty is gentle<br />
on the skin and can be used<br />
daily. Give <strong>it</strong> a try!<br />
06 Des<strong>it</strong>in<br />
Rapid<br />
Relief, $5.99<br />
You read that<br />
right. We’re talking about diaper cream. It<br />
might seem a l<strong>it</strong>tle out there, but we can<br />
guarantee you <strong>it</strong> works. Why you might<br />
ask? Well, the answer is simple. It’s used to<br />
combat rashes on babies. Z<strong>it</strong>s are a blemish<br />
on the skin. Why not use a paraben and<br />
fragrance-free product that every parent<br />
trusts enough to use on their baby?<br />
07<br />
CVS Health Tinted<br />
Acne Treatment<br />
Cream, $4.19<br />
Here’s another superb<br />
spot treatment. Instead of<br />
drying out the blemish, this<br />
treatment cream hydrates <strong>it</strong> and colorcorrects<br />
<strong>it</strong> to get rid of the unsightly redness.<br />
36 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
HEALTHY FOOD · MARCH 2018<br />
YUMMY FOODS<br />
THAT ARE GOOD<br />
FOR YOU FROM<br />
THE INSIDE OUT<br />
Does the idea of beauty food<br />
make you cringe? Do you<br />
think there’s no way any<br />
food can be that fantastic?<br />
What is <strong>it</strong> made of? We get<br />
<strong>it</strong>. We thought the same thing, but <strong>it</strong> turns<br />
our there are nutrient-dense foods that are<br />
actually good for your outward appearance –<br />
like a beauty product – and good for you on a<br />
cellular level. Who knew?<br />
Beauty foods in their most basic form<br />
are nutrient-dense foods that have antiinflammatory<br />
properties that help to keep<br />
our bodies healthy from the inside out.<br />
Seriously! There are foods that act as a magic<br />
elixir for the body.<br />
WE’VE FOUND A FEW RECIPES<br />
THAT ARE PACKED WITH GOOD<br />
FOR YOU YUMMINESS:<br />
A powerhouse salad<br />
like this one that’s filled<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h a healthy balance<br />
of macronutrients<br />
(carbohydrates, healthy fats,<br />
and protein) and v<strong>it</strong>amins<br />
B and C plus a healthy dose<br />
of minerals is just what the<br />
doctor ordered. The ingredients are summer<br />
blueberries, quinoa, spinach, pumpkin seeds,<br />
dark, leafy greens and fresh avocado. This<br />
salad does everything. It leaves your skin<br />
glowing and smooth. It strengthens your hair<br />
and nails. It gives you clear eyes. Now you<br />
might be wondering what makes <strong>it</strong> pack such<br />
a powerful punch. That comes from each<br />
ingredient doing the work.<br />
Pumpkin seeds, for example,<br />
have been shown to help<br />
w<strong>it</strong>h antioxidant support.<br />
They’re loaded w<strong>it</strong>h essential<br />
minerals. They have unique<br />
antimicrobial benef<strong>it</strong>s.<br />
They’ve also been shown to<br />
have cardiovascular benef<strong>it</strong>s<br />
and can help w<strong>it</strong>h benign<br />
prostatic hyperplasia or<br />
prostate gland enlargement.<br />
They’re loaded w<strong>it</strong>h mineral<br />
zinc, which is crucial to<br />
having healthy skin, strong<br />
hair, and strong, healthy nails.<br />
Spinach or dark leafy<br />
greens are a great source of<br />
minerals and antioxidants.<br />
It’s commonly known, thanks<br />
to Popeye, that spinach is<br />
great for bone and muscle health. It contains<br />
phytonutrients that are known to decrease<br />
inflammation in the body. It also keeps<br />
the skin healthy by fighting free radicals.<br />
In add<strong>it</strong>ion, <strong>it</strong>’s a great source of fiber that<br />
promotes a healthy digestive system and<br />
helps to control your appet<strong>it</strong>e by keeping you<br />
full longer.<br />
Lemon contains a healthy dose<br />
of v<strong>it</strong>amin C. This v<strong>it</strong>amin travels<br />
through the body to neutralize<br />
free radicals. They also protect<br />
against other inflammatory diseases such as<br />
the debil<strong>it</strong>ating rheumatoid arthr<strong>it</strong>is.<br />
Avocados are high in healthy fats<br />
and fiber. They contain essential<br />
nutrients like folic acid, magnesium,<br />
potassium, copper, and manganese.<br />
Blueberries are wonderful for cardiovascular<br />
health. They promote good eye health<br />
and cogn<strong>it</strong>ive benef<strong>it</strong>s and support overall<br />
antioxidant support.<br />
Quinoa contains fiber, magnesium, zinc,<br />
copper, and protein.<br />
Hemp seeds are a great source of healthy<br />
fat and protein. They can be thrown into<br />
any salad, shake, pasta dish, or just about<br />
anything. They’re perfect for anyone who<br />
wants to start a plant-based diet. They have<br />
a nice, neutral flavor that makes them easy<br />
to incorporate into any dish. A mere few<br />
teaspoons contain a whopping eleven grams<br />
of proteins.<br />
38 HEALTHY MAGAZINE