7 Flu-Fighting Foods

Officials at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention warn that it’s important for older adults to get their flu shot as soon as possible to give the vaccine time to take effect. In an effort to cut down on illness, it’s important that family members and those who work around people 65 or older get vaccinated and have flu essentials handy - such N95 Respirators. Commonly known as flu masks, N95 Respirators can help prevent the flu from further spreading. And don’t forget to boost your body’s immune system with these natural flu-fighting foods.

1. Black-Eyed Peas: These nutritious legumes are rich in zinc, a trace mineral that keeps your immune system in working order.
2. Carrots: They’re rich in beta-carotene, which your body uses to ward off respiratory infections.
3. Tea: Green, black and oolong tea all contain naturally occurring compounds that reduce the risk of flu, including quercetin, a powerful antioxidant, and L-theanine, an amino acid found naturally only in tea.
4. Yogurt: Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria found in yogurt and other fermented foods, strengthen the immune system. 
5. Tomatoes: Vitamin C-rich tomatoes help fight colds and flu by boosting the body’s natural defense system in the same way their citrusy relatives do.
6. Mushrooms: These nutritional powerhouses heighten the body’s resistance to viral infections by increasing the activity of natural killer cells, a vital part of the immune system.
7. Almonds: These popular nuts are a rich source of the antioxidant vitamin E, which helps your body ward of viral infections.

If you do feel any flu symptoms, test your temperature with a VeraTemp Non-ContactThermometer. This innovative thermometer will make your life easier and prevent any cross contamination. 9 out of 10 deaths and more than 60% of hospital stays that are flu-related occur in people that are 65-plus. The National Council on Aging urges older adults to talk to their doctors about which flu vaccine is most appropriate this season. For the latest flu updates visit www.cdc.gov/flu

Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

5 Questions for Your New Doctor

Beginning in 2014, many people will be forced to see new doctors - thanks to the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”). Establishing a good relationship with your doctor is a key aspect to staying in good health. “Asking questions opens the dialogue,” says Matthew Bernard, chair of family medicine at the Mayo Clinic. Bernard adds that patients should always feel comfortable asking questions. Here are five questions to ask any new doctor:

1. What are your office hours?

If you have a busy schedule, find a doctor that offers evening, early-morning or weekend hours to accommodate your agenda. It’s also a good idea to inquire about the average wait time when seeing the doctor and how far in advance you need to make an appointment.

2. Who will be seeing me if I have an emergency?

The Affordable Care Act means thousands of people will be entering the healthcare system and adding to doctors’ already-heavy patient loads. Thomas DeBerardino, a sports medicine doctor in Farmington, Connecticut recommends asking who you will be seeing: a physician assistant, nurse practitioner or doctor.

3. What is the specialty of the doctor/practice?

Inquire about specialists in the office and if the doctor partners with others within the community. Ask what hospitals the doctor or practice is affiliated with and which specialists the doctor uses when needed.

4. Do you use electronic medical records?

Electronic records make it easier to transfer doctors and for specialists to communicate with each other. While you shouldn’t write off a doctor that doesn’t use electronic records, it’s something to take into account when picking a provider. If an office does use electronic records, be sure to inquire about the security.

5. How long until I can expect test results?

Limit confusion when it comes to getting test results and other medical information. Doctors in general want to know as quickly as you want to know. If the patient expectations are set up front, it saves a lot of phone calls.