Tips from Specialists for Better Gut Health

A common complaint of many adults is gut health with concerns regarding constipation, bloating and diarrhea. Experts say an out-of-balance gut can throw off your immune system and contribute to everything from obesity to diabetes to mood disorders. While severe chronic issues should be checked out by your healthcare provider, many problems can be caused by things like too little fiber, not drinking enough water and lack of movement.

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) says the average American adult consumes only about half of the daily 22 to 34 grams of fiber recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The Cleveland Clinic explains fiber can help keep you regular as well as help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, and reduce the risk of diseases like colorectal cancer. Plus, it keeps your blood sugar levels from spiking and makes you feel full longer, which can help you lose weight.

Fiber rich foods include legumes such as lentils and peas that are on the top of the list. One cup of cooked lentils has 18 grams of protein, and they are a delicious addition to soups, salads or chili. Artichoke hearts are also high in fiber (I cup cooked artichokes 14 grams) and are great in salads, dips and toppings on pizza. Other fiber rich foods include chia seeds, berries and whole wheat pastas, cereals and breads.

It is important to get enough fluid in your diet and water is one of the best ways to do it. While daily amounts vary depending on your size, activity level and other factors, the National Academy of Medicine suggests men get about 13 cups and women about 9 cups daily from drinks and foods.

Experts explain another problem causing gut issues is lack of physical activity. Dr. James Tabibian, a gastroenterologist at Adventist Health in Glendale, California, and author of Digestive Problems Solved: A Patient’s Guide to Expert Insights and Solutions, says, “Less movement of your body means less movement of your gut.” He also adds that it is a myth that everyone should stop screening for colon cancer at 75. “It’s not that black and white,” he says. Instead, it should be based on your health and other risk factors.

At MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community, our residents enjoy a lifestyle designed around comfort, dignity and peace of mind. We seamlessly blend independent living and assisted living under one roof to allow residents to enjoy continuity of care and remain in a familiar, supportive environment as their needs change over time. Our 66 beautifully appointed suites are available in various floorplans ranging from 325 to 971 square feet, including one- and two-bedroom layouts. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Please schedule a personalized tour to see our retirement communities firsthand.

Hopeful Breakthroughs in 2025 Regarding Alzheimer’s

A recent Washington Post article discussed several new treatment and diagnostic options for Alzheimer’s that should bring some comfort to a disease in which up to now, there has been little hope. With an estimated number of Americans developing the disease expected to increase from approximately a half of million people in 2020 to a million by 2060, we all hope for answers.

Ronald Peterson, a professor of neurology and the former director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, reports, “I think we are at the threshold of making a significant impact on the quality of life – the health span, not just the lifespan. “

One of those significant advances has been the FDA’s first ever approved blood test with over a 90 percent accuracy rate. The test detects the signals of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles, which are the biological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. The new test is much more accessible, more affordable and less invasive than the previous PET neuroimaging test. Experts say this will revolutionize diagnosing the disease and provide opportunity for earlier treatments and intervention.

Another encouraging step comes from the largest lifestyle intervention clinical trial known as U.S. POINTER. Its early reporting shows targeting multiple areas like nutrition, exercise, cognitive training, and health monitoring has helped to improve cognitive measures for those at risk for dementia.

Other findings producing hopeful results are the role vaccines may play in reducing dementia risk. One study tracked adults who received both the shingles and RSV vaccines with a lower risk for dementia. Experts say two things may be responsible. The first is that vaccines reduce the risk of infections and inflammation, which have been linked to an increase in dementia; or that the actual vaccines themselves may activate the immune system in a beneficial way.

Also, there has been talk about lithium carbonate, a drug that has treated bipolar disorder for quite some time, as having a role in treating Alzheimer’s. Researchers say there is compelling data pointing to the use of lithium orotate to reverse damage Alzheimer’s causes to the brain, but caution that much more research needs to be done.

MorningStar of Beaverton senior living community provides the area with trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care. We offer 66 independent and assisted living suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet); and deliver style, comfort, services, amenities and location for a carefree lifestyle. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Contact us to schedule a personalized tour to see our beautiful retirement communities firsthand.

 

Foods to Eat & Drink Before and After a Flu Shot

According to the Medical News Today website, getting a flu shot is a safe and effective way to prevent getting the flu as well as avoiding serious complications that potentially can arise with the flu. Moreover, the side effects of a flu shot are typically mild and include things like low grade fever, headache, muscle aches, and nausea; and may mean your body is building an immunity toward the virus.

If you are someone who is hesitant to get a flu shot due to feeling ill afterward, there are things you can do before as well as after the vaccine to lessen symptoms. For someone who feels dizzy or lightheaded, it is important to know even mild dehydration can increase these feelings. Michelle Routhensteim, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished, recommends coming to the appointment well-hydrated and eating a protein-rich and complex carb snack beforehand. Water, an electrolyte drink or a cup of herbal tea is good for hydration; and a protein-rich, complex carb snack like yogurt with oats, can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce the likelihood of feeling faint after the shot.

Elena Rolt, MSc, DipION, IFMCP, rCNHC, nutritional therapist at Health.Miro, explains, “After receiving a flu vaccine, the immune system initiates an inflammatory response to process the vaccine antigens, followed by the formation of antibodies by B cells to provide protection against the virus.” To support your immune system, experts say to eat an easily digestible protein-rich meal like oily fish high in omega-3 and foods like berries, leafy greens, and mushrooms to modulate inflammation without blunting the immune system’s adaptive response.

Just as hydration is important before your shot, it is also important afterward. Rolt says “Hydration may help reduce the severity of side effects such as headache, fatigue, and muscle soreness, while helping the body to regulate temperature.”

The contemporary MorningStar of Beaverton retirement communities offers independent living, assisted living and memory care designed to allow you to live your retirement years to the fullest. We seamlessly integrate independent and assisted living in one community so residents can have peace of mind knowing they are in a familiar, supportive environment as their needs change over time. With 66 private suites in a choice of floorplans and configurations (some as large as 974 square feet), you are sure to find one that fits your needs. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases, we offer 38 memory care suites. Contact us to set up an in-person tour to see the finest senior living in Beaverton.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-eat-drink-before-after-flu-shot-vaccine-questions#Why-should-you-stay-hydrated-after-a-flu-shot

 

Staying Active and Engaged Despite Health Challenges

While growing older can bring a new appreciation of life, it can also bring a series of challenges including a decline in health that impacts a person’s mobility. This can be due to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity. Other causes are diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as profound vision or hearing loss that interferes with abilities and requires people to rethink some of their lifelong activities.

The good news is many of the things’ people enjoyed doing can still be done – they just may need some modifications. During this phase of life, you may discover new activities you enjoy just as much as the things you had to let go. Most importantly, experts say do not define yourself by your limitations.

Rather, they remind seniors that staying active and engaged has many benefits including boosting physical and mental health; and provides people with a sense of purpose and meaning to their lives. It has also been shown to improve memory and slow cognitive decline. Studies find seniors who stay socially active can even lower blood pressure, elevate mood and reduce anxiety and stress.

Some activities enjoyed by seniors with limited mobility include things like gardening in raised-beds, chair yoga, Tai-chi, water aerobics and low-impact resistance training. Creative pursuits such as painting or drawing, playing a musical instrument and learning a new cuisine; as well as games such as trivia or bridge bring meaning and joy to someone regardless of their physical limitations.

Senior living communities are great places to help seniors find purpose and companionship, along with the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone is always around to lend a hand if needed. For assisted living homes in the Phoenix area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge. Our casitas and suites are well-designed to maximize space, and residents enjoy a whole host of luxury amenities, senior care services, wellness programs and activities.

In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood provides care for those with memory impairment with compassionate, personalized support and services. Contact us for more information and to schedule a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge stands out with its mission: “to honor, to value, to invest.” We’re dedicated to respecting seniors, supporting staff, and offering quality memory care in a welcoming environment. For more details, please contact us or visit our website.

 

 

 

   

MorningStar at Golden Ridge Offers Casitas for Independent Seniors

If you are a senior considering community living, let us introduce you to MorningStar at Golden Ridge in Peoria, Arizona. Located on a large campus at North 67th Avenue and West Golden Lane, we are close to medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and entertainment venues. A new adventure awaits in our vibrant community for independent seniors.

For active seniors, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas as quadraplexes with high-end finishes and attached garages. The Casitas, tucked into their own secluded neighborhood, allow you to fully enjoy your retirement years stress free. Our staff handles all the maintenance, both inside and out, along with included housekeeping services. And in case you were wondering, MorningStar welcomes pets.

Included in your monthly fee, you will receive two meals per day. Our chef-created seasonal menus feature the freshest ingredients from high quality producers and include BrainWise foods and other healthy choices. As a resident you will have access to a range of amenities including a saline swimming pool with hot tub, bistro bar, fitness centers, theater/chapel, salon, and much more. Also, you are sure to enjoy the outdoor dining patio, courtyards, and landscaped grounds. Furthermore, everyone in our community benefits from a wide range of wellness programs and activities.

Unlike some other senior communities in the area, MorningStar at Golden Ridge also provides assisted living homes and memory care so if your needs should change, we are here to help. While you will find our website showcases pictures of our beautiful community, it doesn’t show the loving atmosphere that permeates throughout our home. We attribute this to our exceptional team that feels honored to serve seniors, and works hard every day to provide residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and to schedule a tour.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Steps to Improve Your Health and Longevity

During the last several years, researchers have studied the steps we can take to improve longevity. Their overwhelming findings point to a healthy diet, exercise and strong social ties; and who of us does not want to live longer and enjoy better health along the way? The Medical News Today states, “Making healthy choices around these three factors may be key to living the long, fulfilling lives we strive for, and since it is never too late to start making positive changes, now is as good a time as any to make health a top priority.”

They cite key factors to help achieve this goal. The first regards diet, which includes eating less red meat and avoiding salt. They recommend a Mediterranean diet as it is mostly plant-based and relies on minimally processed ingredients and healthy fats. It consists of whole grains, fruits and vegetables; beans and legumes, fatty fish, seeds and nuts. Experts say the diet can help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Next on the list to help you live longer and healthier is exercise, and it doesn’t mean having to become a marathon runner or train for hours each day. Experts say taking a daily walk can improve longevity and is safe for older adults. In fact, Ryan Glatt, CPT, NBC-HWC, a senior brain health coach and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in the study, told MNT that “the benefits are most significant for individuals who are inactive, as even small increases in physical activity substantially reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and premature death.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends adults exercise at least 150 minutes a week spread out over several days. Other healthy exercises include swimming, cycling, aerobic exercise and strength training as well as flexibility exercises.

You may be wondering how a good social life will help you live longer but the proof is in studies that have found staying social can help a person not only live longer but be healthier. Researchers explain adults who say they feel lonely and isolated have a higher risk of chronic diseases, depression and early death as well as an increase in the risk of stroke.

For independent or senior living, Phoenix area seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar at Golden Ridge, the perfect place for successful aging. We are an all-inclusive community, boasting a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef, wellness programs and activities, luxury amenities and care services. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us for more information about our beautiful assisted living homes.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, Arizona.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/3-ways-to-boost-longevity-in-2025

Dementia Patients Are at High Risk of Wandering

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander. The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home. Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.

Experts say anyone with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering. Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one. Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times. Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and try to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out. In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out. You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.

Along with independent and senior living, MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers memory care in a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including an outdoor area. Our holistic approach is guided by our signature program, Lavender Sky, and we help residents and their families navigate this challenging journey with love and compassion. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on senior living.


MorningStar at Golden Ridge stands out with its mission: “to honor, to value, to invest.” We’re dedicated to respecting seniors, supporting staff, and offering quality independent living, assisted living, and memory care in a welcoming environment. For more details, please contact us or visit our website.

Sources:
alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering
agingcare.com/articles/when-is-it-time-to-place-a-loved-one-with-dementia-188309.htm