Is Bariatric Surgery for You?
Do you struggle with your weight? If so, you’re not alone. But we can help you explore an option that may get you on the right track to a healthy lifestyle.
Join us on May 4 for a free workshop on bariatric surgery—also known as weight loss surgery. You’ll learn what the procedure involves and the risks associated with it. We’ll discuss what would make you a good candidate for this type of surgery in addition to other non-surgical options to help you on your weight loss journey. By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a better understanding of what options may be right for you.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the field. The workshop will be led by Dr. Amy Cha, M.D. from Penn’s Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program. Click here for more details and to register.
Five Stress-Fighting Foods
Too much stress can diminish your health over time. It makes you more vulnerable to illness, from headaches and colds to more severe conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease. That’s why stress management can be a powerful step towards wellness—and with the right diet, you can get there.
Most stress-busting foods contain chemicals that help calm your brain and reduce levels of cortisol and adrenaline, which can be harmful to your body. So take a bite out of these foods, and you’ll be on the road to relaxation in no time.
Complex Carbs: Carbs help your brain produce more serotonin—a feel-good chemical for your mind and body. Because your body digests complex carbs more slowly, it allows for a longer-lasting effect from the serotonin. Good carb choices include whole-grain breads, cereals and pastas as well as old-fashioned oatmeal.
Oranges: These sweet and juicy fruits are known for their wealth of vitamin C, which can help reduce your stress levels and strengthen your immune system. Plus, they make for a great snack or a flavorful ingredient when you cook.
Fatty fish: Getting friendly with fatty fish can help keep your adrenaline levels in check. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and tuna, can prevent a rise in stress hormones and protect against heart disease.
Almonds: These are chock full of vitamins B and E, which help bolster your immune system and make you more resilient during bouts of stress. To reap the benefits, snack on a quarter cup each day.
Avocados: Potassium reduces high blood pressure and stress—and avocados are an excellent source. Half an avocado carries more potassium than an entire banana. Toss them into a salad, or crush them into guacamole when you’re craving a more high-fat treat.
Think When You Drink
Alcohol tends to be a common staple at social gatherings with friends and family. While drinking can be beneficial in some ways, it can also be harmful to your body depending on certain factors like your age, health status and how much you drink.
That’s why it’s a good idea to take a look at your drinking patterns and find out what they mean for you. Rethinking Drinking, a website created by the National Institutes of Health, includes valuable information on alcohol and your health. You’ll learn what counts as a drink, how much is too much, what your drinking patterns mean and more.
Take a short quiz on your typical drink intake, and learn whether it poses a risk to your health. Learn about the symptoms of alcoholism and whether you have any. If you’re trying to cut back on alcohol consumption, this site will give you strategies and support for quitting.
Want to get started? Click here to learn more.