Fitbit has created a new health care platform called Fitbit Care that will help coach people with their health and wellness. Now people can use this platform and the new app connected to it, Fitbit Plus, to stay connected with their doctors, employers, and social groups. This platform and app will even connect you to health coaches so you can stay on track.
The new FitBit app will help your doctor stay connected with you, and updat your records.
What It Includes
The Fitbit Care platform will all people to track activity, sleep, heart rate, and more. It will have interventions for weight loss, smoking cessation, and helps manage conditions such as congestive heart disease and depression. It offers the management of other conditions, even chronic and complex ones.
Once you are enrolled in the Fitbit Care platform, whether through employer or health plans, they will have access to the new app, Fitbit Plus. Fitbit Plus will be able to track your blood pressure, and glucose levels. It will work on a lot of different devices, to which you choose to connect it to.
The Goal
Employers are interested in this new Fitbit app because it will help keep employees health on track. In turn this will essentially keep healthcare costs low. People with the app can connect to support groups if they need to. Employers can put motivating messages on it as well. Doctors can stay connected with their patients and can check their
Keep track of your heatlh with the new FitBit app.
metrics. The doctors will be able to tell if a treatment plan they have set is working or if they need to adjust it.
This advancement in technology can help save someone’s life. The alerts can help those who are part of the platform know if a person’s metrics have dropped too low, or if something is wrong. Just like Apple’s new watch which has saved people from having a major heart attack, this app hopes to do the same, and more. The cost of Fitbit Care is not set, and is dependent on the case. For employers it will be based on the business and how many employees they have.
Every parent has a right over what they think is best for their child. Some choose the herbal route when their kids are sick, while others choose the medicinal route. Over the past couple of years, there has been an increase in parents choosing not to give their kids vaccinations. The numbers quadrupled in the last 17 years. The reason for the decline in vaccinations is due to a study that was found to be fraud regarding autism. The study by Wakefield linked vaccines to the increase of autism in children over the years. The lack of vaccination in kids has caused some measle outbreaks all over the world, including in the U.S.
The number of kids getting vaccinated is decreasing every year. This may cause an outbreak of diseases like the measles.
Vaccines & Autism
The study that was linked to autism was found to be untrue. The man who conducted the study, Wakefield, falsified data about the children’s conditions that he observed. Since then, at least seven large studies were conducted and found no association between the MMR vaccine and autism. But because of Wakefield’s falsified study, and the increasing numbers of autism in kids, parents are re-thinking vaccines. Parents are not reassured by the facts that vaccines are not linked to autism and other issues with children. The reason is because they have all met or know someone with an autistic child.
One in 59 kids are on the autism spectrum in the U.S. This is almost a 2% increased rate from the past 2 years. No one truly knows the reason for the increase of autism in kids. However, there are factors associated with higher risk such as mental illness during pregnancy, genetic mutations, birth before 37 weeks gestation, and having parents that are older than 30.
Measles & Vaccines
Due to the decline of kids getting the MMR shot, the number of kids getting the measles has increased. If a baby or toddler gets the measles, the outcome may be deadly for them and their weakened and undeveloped immune systems. The measles virus is a highly contagious one, it affects the respiratory system, immune system, and your skin. In the U.S. there has been a confirmed 137 measle cases among 24 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC. The CDC estimates that if there is a 5% drop in the measles vaccination, then the number of children aged 2 to 11 who would catch the measles would triple.
Why So Many Vaccines?
Nearly 1 in 4 people aged 19-35 have not received all the recommended vaccinations. Some parents are concerned about the number of shots that a child has to get, especially since it is so much more than when they were a child. The reason for this is because back in the 1970’s and 80’s, kids were vaccinated against only 8 diseases, Since then, kids are vaccinated against 14 diseases, which is why they receive more shots. Kids these days are protected against almost twice as many diseases. 100 children died from chicken pox the year before the varicella vaccine was introduced to us. Even though a lot of people got the chicken pox and were okay, others were not as fortunate.
Some parents think that herd immunity will help keep their kids safe. But kids and babies are at most risk if vaccination numbers drop too much.
Herd Immunity
Some parents believe that “herd immunity” will protect their kids from getting a disease, which is why they do not give their children immunization. Herd immunity is the idea that if a large number of the community is vaccinated, then the spread of a contagious disease will be low for those who are not vaccinated. The only problem with this theory is that the community must have 80-90% of them vaccinated, and a drop in this number will lead to the community becoming susceptible to the disease. Those who are at greatest risk of getting the disease are babies and kids.
Some children who are allergic to eggs, or have immune-system deficiencies can not receive certain vaccines. This puts that child at a huge risk of contracting a disease that could compromise their life. It is important that people around the kid are vaccinated so that the child is not in danger. But this can only be achieved if we shield our kids and communities from the diseases with vaccines.
When it comes down to the debate, it depends on the parent and what they believe and feel is right. Know the facts by doing a lot of research, and ask your doctor any questions you have before choosing not to vaccinate.
The holidays can bring on a lot of stress, accompanied with anxiety, and depression. This is known as the “holiday blues”. If you feel these blues, just know that you are not alone, because it can affect anyone at any age, and are mainly triggered by a life event. Not to mention the pressure to impress people with gifts, attend parties, and deal with family or toxic people contributes to the blues. The holidays are also a time that people remember those who are not there any longer to celebrate. Some things that one may feel, especially if they have mental health ailments, are fatigue, tension, frustration, loneliness, and sadness. But there are ways to tackle on the blues, and tips you can do to minimize the stress and depression.
In order to reduce stress theis holiday season, try to budget in advance and save money.
Budget
It is okay to opt out of gift exchanges if your budget is tight. or if finances are a stressor for you. Instead of buying presents for everyone, ask them to donate to charity instead, create a homemade gift, or a low budget activity for you all to do. If traveling is too expensive for you, then ask family or friends to help pay for the ticket instead of giving you gifts. If you can not make it, then ask to skype, or FaceTime with the person, or persons so that you can still be a part of the festivities. Plan your budget in advance so you know what you can do.
It Is Okay To Say No
The seasons are a difficult time, especially when you commit to too many functions, or to unrealistic expectations. If you say yes to something when you should say no, it only causes a rush of overwhelming and resenting feelings. Our schedules are hectic enough with work, and limited time off. Do not try to be too many places at once, because then you can not enjoy the time. You will be too busy rushing to get to the next party, or worry about hosting your own. Go at your own pace, learn to say no. You can say no to some of the parties and choose to spend more quality times with the people you do choose to see. Prioritize and stick to your limits.
This also goes for family functions. If you are not comfortable about doing something or being around a toxic relative, then you do not have to. We all have that one or multiple toxic family member that always says something witty, and push the limit. Set boundaries with your family. If a toxic family member talks with you, then just remove
Spend some time focusing on you this holiday season. Listen to some music or so something for yourself.
yourself from the conversation.
Get Some Me Time In
Take a breather from the busy schedule you have set and make time for yourself, Spend some time alone, whether it is to read a book, go for a walk, or listening to some music. Relax and refresh from everything you need to do so you can reduce stress.
Stay Healthy, Don’t Overindulge
Think about all the desserts and foods you will be eating and drinking during the holidays! While some of us can’t wait or stay away from the treats, it is important not to overindulge. Overindulging will cause you to feel bad about yourself and upset that you gained weight and lost self control. Get some exercise, even if it is a short walk. Allow yourself the time to be active, so that you can enjoy all the yummy treats. Try to have a healthy snack or meal before a party, and get a good night’s rest. This way you feel good about yourself and avoid added stress or guilt.
Don’t Isolate Yourself
Loneliness can be a problem for some people during the holidays. But you do not have to be lonely if you do not want to be. You can join a group, volunteer at a soup kitchen, go to community activities, and make new friends. Let your neighbors, friends, or coworkers know you will be alone and would like to get together.
It is okay to grieve those you have lost. Your family can remember them by looking at pictures together.
Dealing With Loss
The loss of a loved one has a major impact on us during the holidays. It is okay to acknowledge the grief that accompanies the holidays. Take the opportunity to keep your loved one’s memory alive by continuing their tradition, looking at old pictures of them, and express your feelings.
Professional Help
If all else fails, and the feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety can not be shaken, then talk about it. Seek professional help from a doctor or mental health professional if you need to. It is not something to be ashamed of, because mental health is just as important as physical health.
Make the holidays an enjoyable time, instead of something dreadful. Use the helpful tips provided to prevent the holiday blues. Focus on you and realize your limitations, but more importantly, have some fun.
Beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, chicken, turkey, you name it! The holidays are filled with buffet-style delicious food, which includes a lot of unhealthy ones such as pies, eggnog, cookies, and pastries. It is very easy to get caught up during the holidays with overeating, especially with large portions, or having a second or third helping of food. We tend to indulge during the holidays, and can easily pack on four or more pounds over the season. There is a way to eat some treats without the guilt or the weight gain. Moderation is key, and there is a way to approach the holidays with a healthy eating plan and strategies.
Eat Breakfast
Stop and take the time in the morning to eat a breakfast. Everyone always says it is the most important meal of the day, because it is. Eating breakfast is food for your brain, as well as your body. It helps start off the day more efficiently, and it especially helps you from overeating later in the day.
Eating a salad before your meal will help with digestion, and make you feel more full.
Eat A Salad
Eating a salad before eating a meal not only helps fill you up, but it also helps your stomach digest food better.
Eat A Meatless Meal
Make at least one of your meals throughout the day a meatless one. Incorporate fruits and vegetables in your meal so that your body can receive all the nutrients and vitamins it needs. At the same time, a meatless meal will help your stomach from overworking breaking down meat.
Keep Healthy Snacks Around
When you are at work or at home, try to opt for the healthier snacks. Try almonds, a piece of fruit, carrots, or a rice cake. Trust me, no one wants flaming hot cheetos more than me, but your body deserves the good stuff more. Resist the temptations by keeping them out of sight.
Portion Control
Portion control? On a holiday meal? It is tough to pass up all the foods that come your way when getting passed around, but you can have it. The key is to have a little of everything. Take a spoonful of whatever you would like to eat and limit how much food is on your plate. Did you know that it takes a couple of minutes for our brain to get the signal it is full? It does, so just when you think you want more, take a 10 minute break, drink some water, and make some conversation. After that, check if you are still hungry.
Avoid Too Much Alcohol
Eggnog, as tasty as it is to some people, it has a lot of calories in it. This goes for any alcoholic beverage, so make sure to not drink on an empty stomach, because alcohol increases your appetite. For every glass of alcohol you have, then have a glass of water after to stay on the healthy side.
Stay Away From The Snack Table!
When we are at parties, well when I am at a party, I tend to never be too far from the delicious looking snack table. It is very tempting to stand next to it. It is also where a lot of people mingle. And when you are in arm’s reach, you don’t think twice of popping some treats in your mouth in the middle of conversation. Try to avoid the snack table, and if you’re talking with someone at the table, start to walk with the person, or as hard as it may be, avoid grabbing a snack.
Take the time to go for a quick run before or after a meal so you can stay healthy.
Exercise
After eating a meal, go for a walk with some friends, play some basketball, or go for a quick run! Try to get the recommended 30 minutes a day exercise in, whether through walking, biking, or going to the gym. Staying fit and physically active is the best thing you can do for your body.
Try to follow these easy healthy eating habits during the holiday season, and the rest of the year. It is okay to give into your favorite guilty treat here and there, as long as you do not make it an all day event. It is easy to get lost in the indulgence, and push off getting back on the healthy track. But if you practice these good habits everyday, then in no time it will become routine. Enjoy the holidays, just try to be more health conscious while doing so.
It has been said that more deaths occur during the holidays, and statistics show this to be true. Different reasons account to why people die or get hurt during the holidays. Knowing these issues, especially the medical ones such as high cholesterol, obesity, and heart-related deaths, will help you survive. Several studies show people have a greater chance of dying on Christmas, the day after, or on New Year’s Day than on any other day of the year. Why do so many deaths occur? What can you do to protect yourself and loved ones?
Traveling
People travel for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s so they can spend time with their families and loved ones. In 2012 there were 764 crashes during Thanksgiving travel, and 654 crashes during Christmas that led to at least one fatality. There were also almost 50,000 non-fatal accidents during Thanksgiving that year as well. The reason for the accidents is due to everyone being in a rush to get to their destination, or people driving after drinking alcohol. Snowy and icy road conditions contribute to the number of accidents as well.
Traveling and hanging decorations during the holidays leads to many injuries.
Roads and walkways get icy from the snow and below freezing temperatures during winter months. We have all taken a tumble at least once in our lives because of an icy driveway or sidewalk. Some are lucky to have gotten up okay, while others end up with injuries. Take precaution when walking in icy conditions. Throw down salt on your driveway and walkway as much as needed after a snowfall and below freezing temps in order to prevent falls and injuries.
Decorating
In 2015, 14,000 people had to go to the hospital for injuries that happened while decorating. Hanging decorations is the leading cause of injuries during the holiday season. Decorating on the roof of your home, or up high where a ladder is required is dangerous. Make sure to check your ladder before you use it, and have a family member of friend help you. Also, if you plan to decorate,try to limit alcohol consumption. Some people will have a drink or two while getting in the spirit of decorating, which increases the likelihood of an accident. This is because when alcohol is in our system, we are less cautious than we normally would be.
Another reason for deaths and injuries is what most people least expect to happen, a fire. Fires can start from Christmas trees, candles, and lights. Over 200 fires happen in a home from Christmas trees igniting, while over 6,000 fires occur from candles. A real Christmas tree can become too dry and cause a fire as well, so make sure it is fresh, and keep it away from heat sources. Make sure to check your lights for damage, and put out your candles before you go to sleep or leave the house. It is better to remember these little details in order to save your home, and more importantly your family’s lives.
Health Conditions
Stress, sodium, sweets, and alcohol all partake in the holidays. But, they also partake in worsening health conditions during the holidays. This is especially true for heart-related illnesses. Most heart attacks occur during the holidays than at any other time of the year. It begins during Thanksgiving and continues until after the new year. Why? You might have guessed it has something to do with all the food and stress. It does. People consume a lot of salt, and alcohol during the season which raises a person’s chance of a heart attack. The emotions and stress accompanied with the holidays can be too much on a person’s heart. Some people do not handle stress and depression well, and their heart takes a hit. We have all heard of dying from a broken heart. It is true, your emotions play a big role on your heart health.
Many accidents and deaths occur during the holidays. Having insurance will help with medical bills and treatment.
Other reasons of death include people forgetting their pills while traveling, or shoveling too much without taking breaks. A lot of times, people will hold off on seeking medical attention until after the holidays. They try not to make a fuss about their health issues while with their family during the holidays. Putting off any necessary medical attention will increase the chances of a serious condition worsening, or death.
Be Prepared
Make sure you are insured during the holiday season, because as studies have shown, you have a higher risk of getting hurt and ending up in the hospital during the holidays. Medical bills can add up quickly, and become very expensive. If you are not insured, or would like to seek better health insurance, EZ.Insure can help you find a plan, and set you up. We will provide you with quotes from the top carriers in your region so you don’t have to. We do all the work of researching, and comparing for you, for free! Get an instant quote by entering your zip code in the bar above. Or if you would like to speak to an agent, email [email protected], or call 888-350-1890. Be prepared this holiday season. De-stress as much as you can, and one way to do this is to make sure you are insured. We can provide this assurance. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.
The fall is the beginning of an extremely busy holiday season, bringing on holiday after holiday. The holidays are known as a time for giving presents, but more importantly, it is about family. Spending time with your family during the holidays is the true gift, especially when there is such a disconnect from them all year long. It is a time to reconnect with your family, and it gives you a lot of benefits, both emotionally and mentally. Your family accepts you despite your flaws, and they are the foundation of love and support.
Take some time to remember your family during the holidays, Being close has so many benefits.
Overall Well-Being
Many studies have shown that spending time with your family improves your overall self. It makes you happier, and healthier. Children will get better grades in school, and have higher self esteem because of the closeness they have with their family. Around the holidays, this is especially needed because it can be a stressful time for everyone. Parents deal with work related stress, while kids face school stress. Take the time to create quality time with each other, practice sharing, decorate cookies together, or ride through the neighborhood and look at all the lights. De-stress together and make the holidays a memorable one with each other. Presents are fun, but the memories we create together is what will last forever.
Talking with your parents or kids, and hugging them releases the feel good hormones in our bodies that reduces stress. The closer you are with your family, then the more you are able to cope and deal with a crisis.
A Strong Support System
Family loves you unconditionally, supports your dreams, and always has your back. Remember to lean on each other, especially during the holidays. Parents should interact with their kids, listen to their needs, and back their dreams. Uplifting each other will give all of you the confidence to achieve anything.
Start A Family Tradition
Create a family traidition such as game night, volunteering, or a snowman competition.
A family tradition is a great way to connect families together. As families evolve, grow, and multiply, having a tradition is a fun and easy way to engage together. A family tradition will be passed on, and will help instill family values, bonding, and love. It is never too late to begin a tradition if you have not begun one already. You can take your family to a soup kitchen and teach them the meaning of kindness and humility. Bake together, create a scavenger hunt, or family game nights. Something as small as these gestures will create a lifetime of happiness together.
Family provides unconditional love, and around the holidays, it is especially need it. It is a time to unwind from the stressors we deal with on a day to day basis. You can rely on each other, create traditions together, strengthen relationships, and become overall happier and healthier. What could be better? Take the time to create some memories with your family this season.
