📢 Stay Protected. Stay Healthy. 🩺💉 The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released the 2025 Recommended Child & Adolescent Immunization Schedule!

📢 Stay Protected. Stay Healthy. 🩺💉
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released the 2025 Recommended Child & Adolescent Immunization Schedule!

From birth through 18 years, this guide outlines the vaccines your child needs to stay protected from preventable diseases, including:
✅ COVID-19
✅ RSV
✅ HPV
✅ Influenza
✅ MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
✅ And many more!

📌 Always consult your pediatrician to ensure your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations.
🔗 Visit AAP.org/ImmunizationSchedule for details.

#AAP #ImmunizationSchedule #ChildHealth #VaccinesWork #StayProtected #Pediatrics #PublicHealth

JULY 2020 - IS WEARING A FACE MASK BAD FOR YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

Right now, wearing a mask has become necessary during the Coronavirus pandemic. Infectious disease experts agree that when combined with social distancing, eye protection, frequent hand washing, and using facial coverings can slow down the spread of the virus.                                          

Now, from the made at home cloth masks to more rigid N95 masks, people are out and about making facial coverings an everyday activity requirement.

But some people say wearing a mask reduces oxygen supply.                                              

If this is true, some think this could prove fatal due to one’s own carbon dioxide exhaled while breathing. They think that “Lower oxygen can leave them to feel lightheaded and smothered”.           

This is a real concern for some people.    BUT IS IT TRUE?
It comes down to the kind of mask you are wearing, and how long you are wearing it.                    

When it comes to breathing in oxygen and breathing out carbon dioxide, infectious disease specialist said there’s no evidence to support the idea that cloth and surgical mask—the blue rectangle masks typically worn by nurses and doctors—lead to breathing problems. They don’t fit tight enough to impede airflow or trap carbon dioxide.
Experts also say carbon dioxide molecules are simply too small to be controlled by the majority of mask materials and simply pass right through.  Take surgeons for example, during long procedures, they wear surgical mask for hours with no bad effects on their carbon dioxide levels.                            

But with the N95 mask, it could be a different story.  “It is known that the N95 mask, if worn for hours can reduce blood oxygenation as much as 20%,’ Dr. Russell Blaylock wrote on Technocracy News. This he said can lead to loss of consciousness, as happened to the hapless fellow driving around alone in his car wearing an N95 mask, causing him to pass out and to crash his car. There are also cases of elderly individuals have had problems for this reason they are not recommended. N95 masks should be worn by medical professionals and individuals working in hazardous environments. The average individual does not require a N95 mask.

Also staying at home can weaken your immune system. 

Research has found that loneliness and social isolation can have a direct adverse effect on health such as impaired immunity, depression, poor sleep quality and poor cardiovascular health. According to a study led by UCLA professor Steve Cole, loneliness and social isolation can increase inflammation (the immune system’s response to fight off a threat and decrease immune capacity). There is no evidence that wearing a mask or facial covering affects the immune system in a negative manner.

So how long is too long to wear your mask?                                                             

Most doctors say use common sense. If you’re doing a highly strenuous activity practice social distancing without your mask on as to maximize your oxygen intake. The same thing goes for doing activities in extreme heat. This is especially important now during the summer months.  Some people may want to be extreme, but if you’re by yourself at home, or alone in your car there is no need to wear a mask. If you fear spreading the germs to other people who may get into your car simply wipe down your car’s interior with a CDC approved disinfectant.
By all means wear your mask, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face and eyes especially when you are out in public areas.
Recent studies report that this virus is airborne. It remains in the air much longer than once thought and the airsole travels farther than 6 feet.  You can’t see it, or feel it if you encounter it; but having your mask on is your number 1 line of defense.  Please wear your mask.
Stay Safe and God Bless!
 
Alert!!!!!!!
All hand sanitizers are not safe to use!!!
FDA Warns of 9 Hand Sanitizers that may contain Fatal Ingredients
Hand sanitizers have become essential and a “go to” tool to fighting off infection and disease, especially now with the coronavirus Corvid-19. But it’s important to know what kind of hand sanitizer you are using. It could mean the difference between life and death.

The FDA is advising consumers not to use any hand sanitizer manufactured by Eskbiochem SA de CV in Mexico, due to the potential presence of menthol (wood alcohol), a substance that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested. FDA has identified the following products manufactured by Eskbiochem:
All-Clean Hand Sanitizer
CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol
Lavar 70 Gel Hand Sanitizer,  The Good Gel Antibacterial Gel Hand Sanitizer
CleanCare NoGerm Advance Hand Sanitizer80% Alcohol
Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer

These all contain high levels of methanol and no ethyl alcohol. Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for hand sanitizers and should not be used due to its toxic side effects.
During these times, hand sanitizer is needed just about everywhere. But now it’s important to know what kind of hand sanitizer you are using because the FDA says some could be fatal if absorbed by the skin.
Consumers who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing methanol should seek immediate medical attention which is critical for potential reversal of the toxic effects of methanol poisoning.  Although all persons using these products on their hands are at risk, young children who accidently ingest these products are most at risk for methanol poisoning.

On June 17, 2020 the FDA contacted Eskbiochem to recommend the company remove its hand sanitizer products from the market due to risk associated with methanol poising. To date the company has not taken any action. Therefore the FDA recommends consumers stop using these hand sanitizers and dispose of them immediately in appropriate hazardous waste containers. Do not pour these products down the drain.
FDA reminds consumers to wash their hands often using soap and water especially after using the bathroom, before eating. After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.  If soap and water are not available then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% ethanol.Barry Anderson, BDO Contributing writer                                                                                                                                                                        

Posted June 23, 2020      Dr. P. Gould, BDO Medical Contributor.

Gathea Gilmer,   Health Ministry Coordinator

June 2020 Let's Look At Diabetes

10 WAYS TO REDUCE RISK AND CONTROL DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of Americans, with the black community being at the largest risk. Research has found that 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes, which is a prolonged state of high
blood sugar levels. While prediabetes isn't quite diabetes, 70% of pre-diabetics go on to develop diabetes which can be nearly impossible to reverse. The good news is that for millions of pre-diabetics, there are plenty of ways to stabilize blood sugar levels and turn around the risks. If you already suffer from diabetes,
you can use these tips to control your diabetes under the guidance of your doctor.

1. EXERCISE OFTEN

A key way to turn around your risk for diabetes is to get moving. Research shows that people who burn 2000 calories a week can increase the body's cells that are more sensitive to insulin. This increases insulin
sensitivity, which means the body, can better regulate blood sugar levels.

To burn 2000 calories in one week you need to burn 400 calories a day for 5 days a week. You can do this by walking or jogging for 40 minutes, strength training for an hour, 30 minutes of high-intensity training or 1 hour
of yoga. The key is to exercise and challenge your body often, to reap the diabetes-fighting benefits.

2. PUT DOWN THE SUGAR DRINKS

One of the quickest ways to consume more sugar than necessary is to drink sugary drinks like artificial fruit juices and sodas. Research shows that people who drink an average of two sugary drinks a day were
99% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The fix here is too easy. Reach for the water bottle every time you would normally have a sugary drink. You'll be hydrated, your blood sugar levels will be more stable, and you'll knock down your risk for diabetes with every glass of water you finish.

3. FOCUS ON WEIGHT LOSS

Although not all people with diabetes are overweight, people who carry excess weight have an increased risk of diabetes. When you have too much body fat, you typically have increased inflammation and a resistance to
insulin. This makes the body more susceptible to diabetes.

On the other hand, with every few pounds you drop, you can reduce your risk for diabetes by 16%. Every little bit can help. To shed pounds, focus on reducing your calorie intake and moving more often to jumpstart this life-saving weight loss.

4. REDUCE YOUR CARB INTAKE

Carbohydrates are not usually the first thing that comes to mind when you think of culprits for diabetes. However, carbohydrates break down in the body as sugar. It’s widely known that you can get sugar from fructose (fruits), glucose (sugar), or lactose (dairy). However, you can also get sugar from starches (carbs), which include bread, corn, potatoes, grains, and cereals.

All carbohydrates, whether they start out as starches or sugars, can raise your blood sugar levels and lead to insulin resistance, and ultimately diabetes. For this reason, watching your carb intake throughout the
day can help you stabilize your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of diabetes.

5. EAT SMALLER PORTIONS

Controlling diabetes is mostly about preventing sugar spikes so that your body can easily maintain healthy blood sugar levels. When you sit down to a meal and eat large amounts of food in one sitting, your blood sugar levels can get out of control, forcing your blood sugar levels to produce more insulin to bring your sugar levels back down.

If this is the case with every meal, you are putting your body at a higher risk of prediabetes and eventually diabetes, as your cell develop resistance to insulin over time. When you sit down to your next meal, do
not pile on the servings. Instead, dish out a cup of protein, a cup of veggies, and a half-cup of carbs. It may take time to get used to smaller portions, but your risk of diabetes will go down with every single meal,

6. GET OFF YOUR BUTT

We've talked about exercise but you may still have a sedentary lifestyle, which can increase your risk to develop diabetes by 91%. You are sedentary if you sit down for more time than you stand or move around.

You can break the sedentary cycle with a few simple changes. You can set an alarm to remind you to stand up and stretch or walk around for at least 5 minutes every hour. You'll increase your blood flow and circulation throughout your body, and even improve your concentration to make the workday that much
easier. You can add movement to your everyday task. Stand and walk during conference call rather than sitting during your calls. Stand when you clear your voicemails. Practice these until they become routine and slowly your risk will fall with each workday.

7. GET MORE FIBER

Fiber is like a magic pill to help your body regulate blood sugar levels while you eat. Food like leafy vegetables, lentils, apples, avocados, and whole grains, all have the power to slow down your digestion and keep your blood sugar from spiking out of control.

The slower your digestion, the fuller you feel and the slower the body absorbs things like nutrients, sugar, and vitamins from your foods.  Include fiber in every meal to help your body regulate your blood sugar levels and thereby reducing your risk for diabetes.

8. GET MORE VITAMIN D

Vitamin D deficiencies are common among black people. This is because the best source of Vitamin D is from sun exposure and the melanin in the skin reduces the ability to absorb this precious vitamin. When it comes to diabetes prevention, Vitamin D improves the body's ability to produce insulin and regulate blood sugar levels.

It’s especially important for black people to seek out other sources for vitamin D, whether it’s natural sources or supplements. You can find it in healthy fats like cod liver oil. In addition, you can always increase your time outdoors to soak up more sun.

9. EAT MORE REAL FOOD

Our bodies are designed to break down real food in order to absorb the necessary vitamins and nutrients. Our bodies are less equipped to digest and benefit from processed foods. Synthetic ingredients and processed foods can increase your risk of many health conditions including diabetes.

A sure way to decrease your risk is to eat fewer processed foods and eat more foods that are real. Cutting back on processed foods can reduce your risk by 30%.

10. SIP ON COFFEE OR TEA

The benefits of coffee and tea change daily. Nevertheless, when it comes to preventing diabetes, drinking coffee and tea has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 54%. Coffee and tea contain
antioxidants that can help your body protect against diabetes. If you're concerned about the negative, effects of caffeine just start with 1 cup of coffee or tea daily, particularly if you already have a high risk for
diabetes.  In addition, if you haven't been paying attention, skip the sugar and creamer when you have your next cup of coffee or glass of tea.

Join our Exercise for Seniors Group on Facebook or YouTube at                                                                           
The Guru of Abs daily at 10am Monday -Saturday

Join our 14-Day Carb Challenge.   See me for details.

GOD BLESS!!!

Sources: BlackDoctor.org  
REPORTER/Contributor:   Gathea Gilmer   

May 2020 - BREAST HEALTH

May 2020             Breast Health

BE AWARE
Did you know that the greatest risk factors for breast cancer are being female and growing older?                  

Did you know that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime?                                                         

Did you know that breast cancer knows no gender, geographic or social boundaries?                                                               

Did you know that men can develop breast cancer?                                                                                                                      

Did you know that you are the cure to surviving breast cancer?

If you answered no to either of these questions, I’m glad that you’re reading this. Education and being are the keys to survival.  We all have breast/chest.  That means that we all need to be aware of abnormal changes can happen in all of our bodies.
Although breast cancer is most often thought of something that happens to women, Men can develop breast cancer too. We all need to be familiar with our bodies. We need to be able to notice differences or changes and seek help early.
For these reasons we all must take an active role in our own breast health, and be reminded that we all play an important part in finding a cure.  The best protection is early detection.  Be familiar with your body.  Recognizing any change is vital in early detection.  You, your partner/husband/wife, and your doctor are all partners in detecting changes.     So are you the cure???      These are words to live by.

TAKE ACTION

The key to survival is early detection.                                                                                                                               

Three simple steps for early detection are:
 #1. Regular mammograms for women,
 #2. Clinical exams for both men and women, and
 #3.Breast self- exams for both men and women. 

Make healthy lifestyle choices. They make a difference.                                                                                                          

Educate yourself.                                                                                                                                                                             

Be aware of your family’s health history.                                                                                                                                     

Last, but most important don’t be silent. Talk to your family members, talk to your partner, and talk to your doctor.
What is your risk?                                                                                                                                                                    There are community resources available to you at:                                                                                                                     

Susan G. Komen Race for the cure at: www.iamthecure.org

The Sister’s Network Triangle NC AT: www.sisterstriangle.org/ 

phone 919-490-1571                               

American Cancer Society
Gathea Gilmer   

Breast Cancer Survivor since 2000

April is Spring Cleaning Month!

10 Ways to Spring Clean Your Diet

Its time to spring forwards! If you are like me we all have been on shut
down because of Covid-19 precautions, and unfortunately things
happened. Its time to get some spring cleaning started.

A change in seasons is the perfect time to re-think our old eating habits,
make healthy swaps and to get a fresh start. So lets look at a new strategy for healthy living.

It seems like every spring, the urge hits us to clean out, spruce up and
simplify. We fling open our closed doors and toss out old shoes and
sweaters, ready for a fresh start. So why not spring -clean your eating
habits too? Say goodbye to old routines and lighten up with nutritious foods-plus healthier, smarter ways to eat.

Its time for some spring cleaning. Let's get busy! Let's put our heads together and get serious. We can do this!!

HERE ARE 10 HEALTHY WAYS TO DETOX YOUR DIET THIS SPRING

· CUT BACK ON THESE FOODS

ALCOHOL

Booze takes a toll on your liver, the main organ that "detoxes" your
system. It also acts as a diuretic, so its harder to stay hydrated. Stick to
the recommended limits of one drink a day for women and two for men.
Try club soda with a splash of juice for a refreshing mocktail.

ADDED SUGARS

Sodas and packaged foods are often loaded with hidden sugars, upping
your risk for obesity and heart problems. The American Heart
Association recommends keeping added sugars under 6 teaspoons for
women a day, and 9 teaspoons for men a day. One 12 ounce regular
soda has about 8 teaspoons of sugar, so its easy to overdo things fast.

When you want a sweet treat, reach for fruit instead.

SALT

Americans eat an average of 3,400 milligrams of sodium a day. Cut
1,000 milligrams out everyday and you will lower your risk of heart disease by up to 9 percent, according to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine. Put down that salt shaker!!

REFINED GRAINS

White flour, White rice, and the like are stripped of healthy fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Check food labels carefully and look for foods that list whole grains as the first or second ingredient.

PROCESSED FOODS

Prepared foods with a long list of ingrediences load you up with sugars,
salts, and unhealthy trans fat. Pass them up and make room for more healthy whole foods instead.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

· Eat More of these Foods

Fruits and Veggies.

They are colorful. low in calories, rich in nutrients and antioxidants, and can help prevent heart disease- whats not to love? Make veggies the star at dinnertime. Start with veggies you have on hand or what looks good in the market, add a protien and a starch and you're set.

Whole Grains.

Eating more whole grains may help you live longer by reducing your risk of cancer, heart disease, and premature death from other causes, according to 2 large review studies in 2016. Try one new-to-you grains, such as quinoa, amaranth, or wild rice each week.

Healthy Fats.

Eaten in moderation, some high-fat foods like avocados, nuts, eggs, fatty fish, olive oil, dark chocolate and cheese are super good for you. Experts at Harvard School of Public Health say eating more of them can help curb cravings for processed carbs (snacks). Whip up a batch of guacamole, or add a little cream to your coffee every now and then.

Probiotics.

Have you fed your microbiome lately?? Foods rich in probiotics help keep your gut healthy by feeding the "good" bacteria. Some good sources are yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut and some cheeses.

· Eat Breakfast Every Day

Mom was right a good breakfast fuels your day. Studies show that eating
breakfast can help prevent weight gain. And according to a 2017 study in Spain, people who skipped breakfast had more fatty buildup in their arteries, an early sign of heart disease.

· Pull Back on Portions

Its easy to let serving sizes creep up during the winter months-everybody indulges over the holidays, right? Make spring a time to cut back to healthier portions. Use smaller plates and serve dinner from the stove rather than on the table. No seconds now.

· Eat More Mindfully

Research suggests that mindful eating-taking the time to chew and notice the different tastes and textures of every bite -can help with weigh loss. You will eat less to feel full and enjoy your meal more. Always in a hurry?? Set the oven timer for 20 minutes, then sit down for a more leisurely meal.

· Hydrate

Water is vital for the function of every organ system, helping to circulate oxygen and whisk away toxins. If you don't like drinking water, jazz it up with a spitzer of lemon or lime. Green tea works good too, and has a lot of healthy benefits from boosting immunity to fighting cavities. Try swapping a cup of coffee for green tea.

· Clean out your Pantry and Fridge.
Go through your cabinets and look for foods that come in boxes. Swap
crackers or chips for crunchy veggies. if you rely on prepared foods like mac & cheese or canned soups find an easy recipe to make them from scratch.

· Cook More at Home.

Skip dining out and save on calories, sodium and money. Use fresh ingredients and boost the flavor with herbs and spices rather than salt. Serve up smaller portions. Start planning for that new outfit!!!

· Plan More Meatless Mondays.

Forgoing meat even one day a week is an easy way to lower your risk for heart disease, Stroke, and diabetes. Studies show that people who eat a plant-based diet also tend to weigh less than meat eaters.

· Plant A Food Garden!

Not only will you get good, Nutritious (and inexpensive) herb and veggies, but you'll also get plenty of exercise. Research shows that tending to your own patch of earth is a great way to de-stress, and can even help ward off depression and anxiety. No yard? Plant a window box or a container garden. Or try growing some herbs in your kitchen or on your windowsill.

We are all at home during this time of quarantine and social distancing; so take this time to start your diet spring cleaning. Develop some new healthy habits.

Grow your garden. Share pictures as as you go. I challenge you to take care of your selves.

GOD Bless!!!!

********************************************************

COVID PRECAUTIONS: These areas in your HOME require  your attention daily.

6 of the filthiest places in your home.

1.    DOOR KNOBS  & HANDLES

2.    KITCHEN SINKS

3.    KITCHEN COUNTER TOPS

4.    KITCHEN TABLES AND HARDBACK KITCHEN CHAIRS

5.    SPONCHES AND DISHCLOTHES

6.    REUSEABLE WATER BOTTLES

Should You Clean, Disinfect, or Sanitize them during this Pandemic?

Know the difference.

Cleaning – Using Soap and Water to physically remove germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces and objects. It does not necessarily kill germs, but it lowers their number and the risk of spreading infections.

Disinfecting— Chemical products that actually kill germs on surfaces and objects. These don’t necessarily clean, but are used after cleaning for more effective illumination of germs and bacteria.

Sanitizing--- Sanitizing uses cleaning or disinfecting chemical products to remove and reduce the number of germs to a safe level determined by public health standards. Sanitizing is typically used for surfaces that come in contact with food. Your dishwasher is a sanitizing method for your kitchen tools.

Door Knobs and Handles--- require cleaning and disinfecting.
Spray with EPA approved disinfectant cleaner . Spray 6-8 inches from the knobs or handles and led it air dry.  Repeat as needed.

 Sinks ---- are the dirtiest place in your home. The pipe that leads down under the sink is teaming with bacteria, and if not addressed regularly bacteria will creep back up to the sink and contaminate
everything that it touches. Never leave standing water or old food scraps in your sink.

You should clean and sanitize these areas frequently. Deep cleaning and sanitizing should be done monthly to the pipe area.

Kitchen Counter Tops and Islands --- two most important places to keep clean in the kitchen. You should clean and disinfect using detergent and water, then use a diluted bleach solution, or an alcohol solution (70% or greater) or any approved disinfectant.

Sponges and Dishcloths--- Wash and Sanitize sponges and dishcloths using the hot cycle of your washing machine and/or dishwasher. Dry dishcloths on hot cycle, place sponges to air dry.    Use separate towels for each job.

One for Hands, One for Dishes, and One for Cleaning.

Reusable Water Bottles-- cleanse frequently using hot water and detergent.

LIST OF EPA APPROVED  PRODUCTS: 
CLOROX BLEACH, CLOROX DISINFECTING BATHROOM CLEANER,CLOROX ALL-PURPOSE
CLEANING SPRAY, LYSOL‘POWER PLUS” TOILET BOWL CLEANER, LYSOLDISINFECTANT SPRAY.

HOPE THIS HELPS.  STAY SAFE.   GOD BLESS

Sources: CDC’S Environmental Cleaning and Disinfecting Recommendations, WHO, EPA

Collaborator- Ms. Gathea Peaks