Christmas "Fruit & Goo"
 

What you'll need

1. 1x whole bag of frozen dark cherries
2. 1/2 small tub of Fat Free Cool Whip
3. Vanilla whey/soy protein powder
4. 'Splenda' brand sweetner

Instructions

1. Take the bag of frozen cherries and microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes (or until mostly defrosted; they should be still firm and cold).
2. Add 1/2 small tub of the Cool Whip.
3. Add 2x scoops vanilla the protein powder
4. Add packets of 'Splenda' per individual's taste.
5. Mix it all up in a wooden bowl until creamy and dreamy!

"I eat it right before bed and it is the highlight of my day while contest training...No fat, no slow carbs, plenty of protein and fruit fiber...delicious, filling and low calorie."

Recipe by Liza Reichenberger, SporthoCare Inc.

• Overview of Pain Management treatments.
• Discussion about the required evaluations and compassion needed for patients in chronic pain.
• Review of the new technologies pain experts use to diagnose and treat pain.
• Reminders about the benefits of Acupuncture, Tai Chi, Vitamins and Minerals like Calcium and Vitamin D.
• Update from the Institute of Medicine regarding Osteoporosis.

(via KFPA 94.1)

This article validates our patients on-going struggles with chronic pain.

Coping with chronic pain can affect every aspect of a person's life and cause conflict between what their mind wants to achieve and what their body allows them to do, according to research in the December issue of the Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness. Swedish researchers carried out in-depth interviews with ten people who had experienced chronic pain for between four and 32 years and were taking part in an outpatient rehabilitation programme. Nine of the patients, who ranged from 22 to 50 with an average age of 38, were unable to work because of their pain.

Click here to read the rest of the article, via MedicalNewsToday.com

Our health care system isn't always easy to navigate or understand. As a doctor, I have to deal with insurance companies on a daily basis. Here are a couple of tips on how to get the most out of your health care insurance company.

1. Collaborate with your doctor about alternative approaches and complementary medicine
2. Ask for lower cost options, including generics and sample prescriptions
3. Negotiate for lower charges when paying cash, especially while trying to meet deductibles
4. Use the money in your Flexible spending account for complementary medicine and alternative treatments
5. Use a third party to order prescription refills
6. Stay Healthy
7. Stay in your Network
8. Use the ER for emergencies
9. Visit your insurance company's website to understand your benefits
10. Analyze your health plan at open enrollment to see if your needs are being met

1. Hide them

2. Secure them

3. Don't discuss them

4. Plan ahead

5. Do not Share Them

Danny McLarty has written a great article in his favorite strategies for having a successful diet and healthy lifestyle. I recommend everyone read it; I hope it helps.

Whether you’re just starting out on the fitness lifestyle, looking for a way to get inspired, or a way to bust through a plateau, incorporating these simple tips will set you up for success.

Frame Goals Around Behaviors

“I want to lose 15 pounds in 12 weeks.” Or,
“I want to be ‘bikini ready’ for my upcoming trip to Hawaii.”

About the Video
ABC7's Emmy award-winning public affairs show, "Beyond the Headlines," provides in-depth coverage of the topics and issues facing the people of the Bay Area. Throughout the year, "Beyond the Headlines" airs half-hour specials on issues, ranging from Bay Area housing to same-sex marriage.

Today we are going to talk about chronic pain. We will hear from doctors who specialize in treating pain, and learn about some of the alternative treatments to help combat this issue.

(via ABC7)