New Yorkers may no longer be able to throw their potato peels or egg shells in the trash can, as Mayor Michael Bloomberg has a plan in the works for a food-composting plan for all five boroughs.

Bloomberg first announced the plan in his State of the City address in February, as part of the city’s aim to divert 30 percent of the city’s waste from landfill by 2017.

“By recycling food waste, we can cut down on the total amount of trash we send to landfills and put it to better use as compost for community gardens or even energy,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Cas Holloway. “This is an innovative program that’s already seen success in homes on Staten Island and our public schools, and we’re excited to expand it to more New Yorkers.”

The program is set to launch in all five boroughs this fall and reach more than 100,000 homes, averaging about 25,000 per borough, according to Bloomberg spokesman John McCarthy.

McCarthy said organic waste makes up about 35 percent of the city’s total waste, and totaled 1.2 million tons in 2012. Getting that waste to landfills cost the city $100 million.

Ultimately, the Bloomberg administration said, the composted waste could be converted to natural gas.

Earlier this year, organics recycling programs were launched in 90 public schools in Brooklyn and Manhattan. The diversion rate reportedly increased from 15 to 34 percent in Manhattan schools and 15 to 28 percent in Brooklyn schools.

Not everyone is thrilled with Bloomberg’s plan, however.

Jeff Stier, New York City-based director of the Risk Analysis Division of the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative thinktank, called the plan “a rotten idea for the Big Apple.”

“It doesn’t make sense to mandate that all New York residents save their rotting food,” Stier said. “Consider the increased risks from disease carrying vermin—a problem the city still hasn’t conquered—from all of the pre-compost material sitting around our dense living spaces, not going out with the trash each night.”

Aside from vermin, Stier is concerned about greenhouse gas emissions from additional trucks he says will have to be deployed to transport the composted waste.

Follow Danielle Tcholakian on Twitter @danielleiat

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The city’s Health Department reported on Monday that diabetes-related deaths have reached an all-time high in the city.

There were a record 5,695 deaths in 2011 in which diabetes was either an underlying cause or a contributing cause, according to the report. That adds up to one death every 90 minutes and 16 deaths a day in New York City.

“Diabetes is a condition that too many people live with and die from,” said Health Commissioner Thomas Farley. “It is linked to our epidemic of obesity, and like obesity, it can be prevented.”

Although the overall number of deaths has declined in the city, the number of diabetes-related deaths has been steadily increasing since 2007, the report shows.

Non-Hispanic blacks had the the highest diabetes-related mortality rate than any other racial/ethnic group, with 116 deaths per 100,000 population. The diabetes-related mortality rate was 2.7 times higher among individuals in high-poverty neighborhoods than in low-poverty neighborhoods. It was also 1.4 times higher among men than in women.

While the diabetes-related death rate was 19 per 100,000 in the Murray Hill section of Manhattan, it was 177 per 100,000 in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn—a nine-fold difference, the report shows.

Life-threatening complications of diabetes include heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. People with diabetes are twice as likely to die than other people their age without diabetes, according to the Health Department.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has maintained the importance of his proposed sugary drink regulation, often referred to as a “Soda Ban,” is evidenced by such studies, particularly the finding that diabetes hits lower-income communities the hardest.

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Downward Dog Days of Summer: Free Outdoor Yoga Classes at Exhale

Exhale Mind Body Spa is hosting a donation-based yoga class each month, with proceeds benefitting the Meatpacking District Improvement Association. These outdoor yoga classes are held on the cobblestone streets of Gansevoort Plaza between Hudson and Ninth avenues. Class times range from 7:15 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Mark your calendar for June 19, July 18, Aug. 15 and Sept. 19.

18 Ninth Ave., 212-660-6733, www.exhalespa.com

Shaolin Five Animal Kung Fu in Riverside Park

Shaolin Five Animal Kung Fu is promoting self-defense as a fun and stress-reducing fitness activity with free weekly kung fu classes in Riverside Park. Every Saturday from 1 p.m.-3 p.m., instructor Sifu Adam Chertoff, who has more than 30 years of kung fu experience, integrates modern approaches with traditional forms of the martial arts. The program runs through Oct. 26, weather permitting.

Riverside Park (meet at the 108th Street entrance at 12:45 p.m.), 212-942-8909, www.shaolinfiveanimals.org

Summer of Fitness Exercise Series in Hudson River Park

Whether you’re into Pilates, yoga or you need a more intense boot-camp workout, Hudson River Park has a diverse lineup of free summer exercise programs. Activewear brand Lole and fitness concierge Fitist sponsor classes held at Pier 25 (North Moore Street and the West Side Highway) on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., through Aug. 20. On Wednesdays at Pier 64 (23rd Street and the Hudson River), Shape Up NYC offers Nia classes, a fusion of marital arts, dance and yoga, and on Thursdays at Pier 46 (Christopher Street and the Hudson River), they do Pilates. Classes take place from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. and run through Aug. 22.

www.hudsonriverpark.org

Outdoor Rise NYC

From June 17-23, Outdoor Rise, NYC’s first outdoor adventure festival, is providing more than 60 free events in all five boroughs. You’ll enjoy events like rock climbing, yoga, biking and more. All events are free.

 www.outdoorrise.com

The post Free summer fitness in NYC appeared first on Metro.us.

Seven months after Hurricane Sandy destroyed the first floor of her Hamilton Beach home, Jean Ferrara-Rodriquez is still rebuilding her life.

The downstairs’ plumbing needs work, mold in the hallway has to be retreated and she’s still waiting some FEMA checks.

“You worry about one thing and another comes up,” said Ferrara-Rodriquez, 51.

Ferrara-Rodriquez is not alone. The health department said nearly one-third of adults living in the areas hardest-hit by Sandy reported experiencing psychological distress six weeks after the storm.

“When property is destroyed or lost and you cannot get back to your normal environment, it takes much longer to recover from trauma because people have to adjust,” said Paula Madrid, a psychologist with the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University.

The city health department urges storm victims to call a helpline in a summer campaign advertising free crisis counseling services through Project Hope, a state initiative funded by FEMA.

Ferrara-Rodriquez has been attending Project Hope group sessions at the Howard Beach Senior Center since April. She draws comfort from meetings with other storm victims.

“You got to be in it to really know what it’s like,” she said.

New Yorkers exhibited psychological reactions to the storm in roughly half of Project Hope crisis counseling sessions since November, according to the health department. Most felt sad, tearful, anxious, fearful, irritable or angry.

Children are especially vulnerable to these symptoms, Madrid said.

“There are a lot of children who are fearful about the summer—these children haven’t had any of these fears before Sandy,” Madrid said, noting the increase in storms during hotter months.

Though Ferrara-Rodriquez’ daughter Jean Marie, 13, doesn’t appear to be afraid of future hurricanes, she was stranded with her mother for several hours at a flooded motel when the storm hit last October. Such traumatic experiences have a greater impact on children and the stress can manifest in different ways, Madrid said.

But recovery—for both adults and children—after a disaster like Sandy can take years.

“Recovery only begins when people feel they are safe,” she said.

Getting help

Health officials hope Sandy victims in emotional turmoil will take advantage of Project Hope’s services.

Since November, hundreds of counselors with Project Hope have already helped 108,000 New Yorkers, going door-to-door in storm-ravaged neighborhoods.

Counselors advise victims individually or in group sessions on how to deal with any stress and anxiety they might feel and, if necessary, give them referrals for professional help.

If you or someone you know feels overwhelmed after Hurricane Sandy, please call 1-800-LIFENET.

The post Sandy victims still struggle with emotional recovery appeared first on Metro.us.

The number of New York parents who had their child skip at least one required vaccine due to religious reasons increased over the past decade, according to a new study.

What’s more, researchers found counties with high religious exemption rates also had more whooping cough cases — even among children that had been fully vaccinated.

States set their own requirements on which vaccines a child must have received to enter school. All allow exemptions for medical reasons, and most, including New York, also permit parents with a religious objection to forgo vaccination.

Less than half of states permit exemptions due to personal or philosophical beliefs. But those also can get counted under religious views in places with less strict exemption policies.

“Particularly in New York State, I do believe that parents are using religious exemptions for their personal beliefs,” said Dr. Jana Shaw, who worked on the study at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.

“There’s a lot of vaccine hesitancy.”

Studies have shown cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, have been on the rise across the U.S.

Researchers suspect that’s due to the use of a new type of pertussis vaccine — which is safer, but less effective over the long run — and to more children missing or delaying vaccination.

For their study, Shaw and her colleagues tracked data from the New York State Department of Health on both religious exemptions and new whooping cough cases. Children were reported as having a religious exemption if they had been allowed to skip at least one required vaccine for non-medical reasons.

Between 2000 and 2011, the proportion of religiously exempt kids increased from 23 in 10,000 to 45 in 10,000, the study team reported Monday in Pediatrics.

The number of counties where at least 1 percent of children had a religious exemption also increased, from four to 13. Most of those counties were in western or northern New York.

Higher religious exemption rates were tied to more reported cases of whooping cough. In counties with at least 1 percent exemption, 33 out of every 100,000 children developed pertussis each year, compared to 20 per 100,000 in counties with fewer religious exemptions.

‘Overwhelming evidence’ on safety

Children who had been fully vaccinated were also more likely to get sick in places with high exemption rates.

No vaccine is 100 percent perfect, so infectious disease prevention relies on “herd immunity” – when enough kids are vaccinated that the infection can’t spread.

“If you have enough exempted children in your schools and neighborhood, they will put even vaccinated children at risk,” Shaw told Reuters Health.

Saad Omer, a researcher at Emory Vaccine Center in Atlanta, said the pattern of increasing non-medical exemptions has been seen in other states as well, including Michigan and California.

Because of the general success of vaccination, “there is less disease to go around and there’s less individual and collective experience. You don’t hear about the disease that often,” he told Reuters Health.

“When that happens, successive cohorts of parents start evaluating the real or perceived risk of vaccines more than the risk of disease.”

But those perceived risks – such as a link between vaccines and autism – have not panned out.

“If you look at the risk-benefit ratio between side effects of vaccines and the benefits they render, it’s not even a close call. It’s hugely, heavily in favor of vaccines,” said Omer, who wasn’t involved in the new research.

Shaw agreed.

“Vaccines are extremely safe, in spite of what the Internet and other sources have argued,” she said. “We have overwhelming evidence that vaccines are safe.”

Both Omer and Shaw said they don’t think states and schools should pass judgment on parents’ religious beliefs, but that it shouldn’t be easy to get a vaccine exemption for convenience or personal preference.

And, Omer added, “Those who don’t get [their kids] vaccinated should remember that it’s not a benign choice. There are real disease risks.”

The post Vaccine exemptions for religious reasons on the rise: study appeared first on Metro.us.

Kids who are short for their age but otherwise healthy probably don’t need extensive blood tests to determine if a disease is stunting their growth, researchers said in a new study.

Of 235 short kids without symptoms who were referred for specialty testing, just three had a possible diagnosis picked up on those labs, and only one diagnosis — for celiac disease — was confirmed, researchers found.

“Most of the screening tests are for diseases you really wouldn’t want to miss, but it’s rare that any of those diseases [would only] present with short stature,” said by Dr. Stephanie Sisley, who led the study.

Guidelines on short stature from endocrinology groups recommend lab screening for very short children, including those who don’t have any problems picked up on a physical exam. That screening includes blood tests for thyroid and growth hormones as well as calcium and other nutrients.

But one of the authors of those guidelines agreed that based on the new findings, kids who are short but have no other symptoms probably don’t need extensive screening.

Sisley and her colleagues reviewed the medical charts of 1,373 short children who were referred to the endocrinology clinic at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center between 2008 and 2011. Of them, 235 were below the third percentile for height and had a normal check-up and no record of having stopped growing.

A 10-year-old girl who is 4 feet, 1 inch tall would fall just below the third percentile, for example, as would a 6-year-old boy who is 3 feet, 5 inches.

Few of those children underwent all tests recommended by the guidelines; the average kid had about two-thirds of them. One was diagnosed with celiac disease — when the body can’t process certain grains — and two others had signs of underlying conditions but didn’t finish follow-up tests.

There were 10 false positive lab results that didn’t pan out on further testing.

Altogether, the tests cost $315,321 — or $105,107 per possible diagnosis, the study team reported in The Journal of Pediatrics.

Sisley and her colleagues said their findings show many children are inappropriately referred to specialists for short stature. Rather than looking at a child’s height at one point, it’s more important to track it over time to see if a kid has stopped growing, they wrote.

“Any patient who really isn’t growing should be checked out,” Sisley, now at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, told Reuters Health.

Dr. Alan Rogol, a professor emeritus at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, agreed the new findings only apply to those kids who are short but have no record of growth delay.

The kids in this study “had nothing that pointed to difficulty in any system, and many of them were short kids of shorter parents,” Rogol, who reviewed the study for the journal, told Reuters Health.

He and Sisley both said those kids should be followed by their pediatrician for at least six months, then referred to a specialist if they really aren’t growing, or any time new symptoms show up.

“In this idealized set of kids, the things that pediatricians do best … are probably more worthwhile than sending them over to see an endocrinologist or somebody else,” Rogol said.

“I think parents are most worried that they’re missing something in the kid. It’s actually OK to follow the growth of a patient for six months or 12 months to see if something’s going on before you do specialized testing,” Sisley said.

“Much of the time, if their child is otherwise healthy … the bottom line is they’re probably going to be fine in the long run.”

The post Not all short kids need screening: new study appeared first on Metro.us.

Evolve Kefir
We love kefir — it’s got more gut-boosting bacteria than Greek yogurt, with double the protein and 10 percent more calcium — but we know not everyone is into slurping the the slightly tangy cool treat. Now, there’s a new option: Evolve’s spoonable Greek kefir, which is the first product of its kind to hit shelves. It’s less tangy than the drinkable stuff, and comes in fruit-on-the-bottom flavors like strawberry, blueberry and peach. Find it in the dairy aisle.
$1.99, grocery stores

Organic Avenue’s quinoa bowl
Organic Avenue, purveyors of orange totes and green juices that are highly coveted coast to coast, is branching out into cooked-food territory with the release of its first cooked vegan product, the quinoa bowl. Available in three varieties — Mexi-Fresh Veggies, Turmeric Tomato Cauliflower, and Sweet Yam & Celery — the bowl is a hearty mix of red and white quinoa with a medley of veggies and spices.
$10, Organic Avenue stores

ZombieFoodBars
This protein-packed organic, vegetarian, gluten-free and peanut-free bar was created by Dr. Michael Wald, a marathoner and zombie enthusiast. Take it with you when you need some energy to escape the zombie apocalypse, or snack on one the next time you turn on “The Walking Dead.” Dr. Wald assures us that it tastes better than brains, and he’s right (though the barometer there is pretty low). But seriously, we liked it.
$4.25 per bar or $46 for 12, www.zombiefoodbar.com

The post New foods we’re into appeared first on Metro.us.

Though New Yorkers wouldn’t know it from the largely damp and chilly Memorial Day weekend, summer heat in Manhattan could be turning deadly, according to a study out of Columbia University.

Worse yet: the study found the greatest increase in temperature-related deaths would occur during typically pleasant May and September.

Researchers at the university’s Earth Institute and the Mailman School of Public Health are apparently warning that deaths in Manhattan linked to warmer temperatures due to global warming may result in a 20 percent increase in temperature-related deaths by the 2020s.

In some worst-case scenarios, according to the Earth Institute, the rate of heat-related deaths could rise by 90 percent by the 2080s.

While global warming could also bring rising winter temperatures, scientists say, the rise in heat deaths would likely not be offset significantly by a decrease in cold-related deaths. Annual net temperature-related deaths may still increase by a third.

This Manhattan-focused study is reportedly one of the most comprehensive studies so far on adverse health effects associated with rising temperatures as it combines data from all seasons and looks at multiple scenarios in one localized area—an area that happens to be the most densely populated county in the United States. 

A coauthor of the study, Earth Institute climate scientist Radley Horton, pointed to the 55,000 deaths that occurred during the record 2010 heat wave in Russia, and the 70,000 deaths that occurred in 2003 in central and Western Europe.

“This serves as a reminder that heat events are one of the greatest hazards faced by urban populations around the globe,” Horton said.

Heat apparently becomes concentrated in cities, as the pavement and buildings absorb it during the day and give it off at night. 

2012 was apparently the warmest year on record in Manhattan. While projections for the future vary, the study anticipates steep average increases: 3.3 to 4.2 degrees Fahrenheit by the 2050s, and 4.3 to 7.1 degrees by the 2080s.

The study looked at two potential futures: one where global population growth happens alongside minimal efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions; the second assuming slower population growth and advances in technology that could decrease emissions by 2040. Their baseline for temperature-related deaths was the 1980s, when as estimated 370 Manhattanites died from excessively hot temperatures and 340 died from extreme cold.

In both scenarios, the study anticipated increased mortality. Varied results were credit to the unpredictability of the future of greenhouse gas emissions, but researchers said the best-case scenario would involve a 15 percent increase in temperature-related death; worst-case would be an increase of more than 30 percent.

Senior author Patrick Kinney, an environmental scientist at the Mailman school, said the situation could be affected, positively or negatively, by how New York adapts its infrastructure and policies to a warmer world.

“I think this points to the need for cities to look for ways to make themselves and their people more resilient to heat,” he said.

The Earth Institute noted that New York already takes steps to mitigate warming by planting trees, making roofs reflective, and opening cooling centers in the summer time where people can seek refuge in rising temperatures.

Hot tips from the Department of Health

The Department of Health advises New Yorkers without home air conditioning to call 311 to find their nearest cooling center during a heat wave, or go to a nearby library, museum or department store. Hydration is important, but drinks with alcohol, caffeine and lots of sugar should be avoided.

While the DOH advises people to use air conditioning during the summer, the department also warns that the city is vulnerable to power outages during a heatwave, so thermostats should not be set below 78 degrees, and water should be used conservatively during extreme weather. Cool showers are recommended, but sudden temperature changes could cause dizziness or sickness.

Follow Danielle Tcholakian on Twitter @danielleiat

The post Report: global warming may mean more deaths in Manhattan appeared first on Metro.us.

Officials urged gay men to get vaccinated against meningitis after an outbreak in the city.

The Health Department reported that 17 cases have been reported since 2012, and 22 cases since 2010.

Seven of those cases were fatal, according to the Health Department.

Officials are worried that the danger will spread further.

“The meningitis outbreak in New York City is literally a life and death matter,” Assembly member Micah Kellner said.

LGBT advocates and elected officials are urging people to get vaccinated immediately

“Men who have sex with men should protect themselves from this potentially fatal disease,” City Council Speaker Christine Quinn said.

To find a location to get vaccinated, call 311.

The post Officials urge gay men to get meningitis vaccination appeared first on Metro.us.

Mom will get buff at As One.

As One

www.as1effect.com

Bring mom to any class this Thursday for free — and it doesn’t have to be your mom, any mom will do! As One’s bootcamp-like classes are usually pretty tough, but they swear that the classes are adaptable for all fitness. Email keith@as1effect.com to sign up. Mom will also leave with a gift bag and a free week of classes.1effect.com

Planet Fitness

www.planetfitness.com

Every 2.3 minutes, a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer. Do your part to help eradicate the disease — sign up for a PF membership between May 8 and 15^th and the $10 enrollment fee will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (after that, it’s just $10 a month for you). While you’re there, nominate the lady in your life as the Best Mom on the Planet for a shot at a year-long membership for you and your madre.

Flywheel

www.flywheelsports.com

Moms who ride on Sunday will get complimentary snacks from the Flywheel team. Out East, a Mother’s Day-themed ride will take place at the East Hampton studio Sunday at 9:30 a.m. All moms taking part in the studio’s TorqBoard competition will get a CD with songs from the class.

The post Give mom the gift of good health appeared first on Metro.us.

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, you know that the journey isn’t over once the cancer is out. With proper planning, however, reconstructive surgery can be a positive step toward recovery. The important thing is to fully explore all options and find the best one for you. “Before deciding on [a] mastectomy, discuss your options with your board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction,” says Dr. Andrew P. Ordon, F.A.C.S., an aesthetic plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a private practice in New York City. “There are a number of options based on the type of tumor and how aggressive the cancer is, and the stage of the disease. There’s also the option of immediate or delayed reconstruction,” he adds.

There are minimally invasive choices for women who have a less aggressive form of the disease. “Less aggressive tumor types would be candidate for nipple-sparing mastectomy and implant. Also, placement of a tissue expander [that allows] serial skin expansion with eventual placement of a final prosthesis is the most simple and least invasive, but it involves multiple stages.”

If a whole breast is reconstructed, doctors spare no expense to make it look and feel as normal as possible for the patient.”With whole breast removal, nipple areola can be reconstructed at a later date using a number of great options taking skin from another part of the body.”

Don’t Fear It
Diagnosed or not, Dr. Ordon urges women to not fear breast cancer. “Today’s results with breast reconstruction are better then ever,” he emphasizes. “Breast cancer is a treatable disease when detected early, so don’t ignore any symptoms you’re experiencing out of fear of losing a sensitive part of you.”

Finding Support
Look Good Feel Better, a free support program for cancer patients, recently launched an app that gives users tips and ideas for skin care, make-up, wearing wigs and dressing after a mastectomy. Such support helps patients regain self-esteem and confidence, which is invaluable for a person battling the disease. For more info, go to www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org

The post Options abound for post-cancer surgery appeared first on Metro.us.

City Harvest celebrated the transformation of a South Bronx Associated Supermarket into a Healthy Supermarket with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday afternoon, the organization reported.

As part of City Harvest’s Healthy Neighborhoods initiative, the upgraded supermarket features increased fresh produce and education programs, from cooking to budget shopping.

A food rescue organization serving the city for more than 30 years, City Harvest distributes excess food to New Yorkers for free.

The post City Harvest opens new healthy supermarket in Bronx appeared first on Metro.us.

Part of her organization’s prevention programs is Trash Cancer, which offers guidance on living a toxin-free lifestyle, starting with the products we buy. Now, Drescher is also lending her support to the Carcinogen-Free Label Act, a bipartisan bill introduced to Congress that seeks to create a label similar to the “organic” label that tells shoppers a product is free of cancer-causing agents. We asked the actress and activist to tell us more about her mission.

Why does toxic-free living start in the home?
The place we spend the most time in is our home, and that’s the place that we have the most control over. Rather than feeling scared as we see cancer closing in around us, why not do something about it? Being proactive and living a more preventative, healthier, toxic-free lifestyle is a very important component and complement to all the research that’s being done. Since Nixon waged the war on cancer, the bulk of the money has been gone into finding a cure, which in many ways is kind of like closing the barn door after the horse has bolted.

So how can we get involved?
We want Americans to use the power of consumerism and to not only detox their home and reduce their risk of cancer but also give a loud message to manufacturers. They’ll sell us whatever we want to buy, so this is where the Carcinogen-Free Label Act comes into play. … Good health is the great equalizer and the beauty of this bill is that it’s non-regulatory, it means we’re not trying to skip enough legislation to make it more difficult for manufacturers to make stuff — which costs money, gets a lot pushback, isn’t necessary. We all agree that a cleaner, less polluted world is in the best interest of everyone. … [We want to] make “Detox your home” the “Don’t drink and drive” of the millennium. It’s a call to action, and once you wake up and smell the coffee, it’s hard to go back to sleep.

What do you envision the label being?
The consumer doesn’t have to go to MIT to understand the ingredients on the back label. All they have to do is look at what essentially is the carcinogen-free label which is like a Good Housekeeping seal of approval. And that will cover everything that we talk about at Cancer Schmancer. What are you putting in your mouth? What are you putting on your skin? What are you cleaning and gardening with? Let’s start there. … I tell every man I know, don’t use antiperspirants. You are creating a situation that deprives the body of one of its its most effective functions of detox, which is perspiring under your arms. Go to the men’s room and wash your pits twice [instead]. You’re a human being and it’s a very important body function. More and more men are getting breast cancer. You wouldn’t do it to an animal — paint their skin with something that would deny them the ability to let the skin function in a most natural and effective way, which is to release toxins.

Why do you think America is behind other countries in banning these ingredients?
The minute you start to get regulation involved, you’ve got big business, lobbyists with very deep pockets that move the roof on Capitol Hill. That’s why I say [our bill] is non-regulatory. This is coming in from another doorway. Everybody has a vote and everybody has a right to buy what they want to buy.

What if people don’t think they have the power to make change?
We were one of the NGOs that put pressure on Johnson & Johnson. They are an enormous company and once everyone caught wind of the fact that the No More Tears shampoo — that we were being told for generations is so safe for babies — is loaded with formaldehyde, much to their credit, they changed their formula. It does work. At the end of the day consumerism and purchasing power is all you need. It’s about rallying together, getting the word out, making it easier for Americans to make a healthier choice because it’s our right to be able to buy something for our family that is not going to harm us.

What about people who say that it’s just trace elements of these ingredients that wind up in our bodies?
Eighty thousand chemicals are being actively used every day and no one knows whether they’re carcinogenic, in what amount, in combinations with what other products. It’s not just your product I’m using. You hear it all the time when you go to the doctor, [they say] “It’s such a small amount of radiation, it’s nothing,” except that it’s something that’s equivalent to a chest X-ray. It’s so pervasive. It’s the amount of stuff.

Do you have any tips for people who want to start living a less-toxic lifestyle?
The more planted and organic food you can eat, and local, pesticide-free, the better. When you eat a strawberry that’s not organic, you might as well be eating a sponge soaked in pesticides. We’re hurting only ourselves. Steer clear of antiperspirants. What kind of toothpaste are you using? Gums are the gateway to a lot of disease. What do you clean with? The stronger the smell is, that’s not good for you.

When we buy products, what should we look for?
Anything that’s eco-friendly. If you can understand the labels, you’re much better off. Go to the Cancer Schmancer website, put in products that you’re using that you’re curious about. Maybe it’s something that your mom and grandmother have used that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. See how we rate it. You may be very surprised and it may be enough to make you want to try going in another direction. Danger’s on the horizon. All we’ve figured out how to do is live longer chronically ill. The present Cancer Panel of 2010 said that there’s not gonna be a cure, it’s just gonna mutate, it’s just gonna change its profile. It’s unending. Our little bodies are completely in harmony with nature. We’re in complete disharmony with the intensity of chemicals that imploded the 20th century with very little restriction or regulation.

The post Fran Drescher: “The responsibility lies with us” appeared first on Metro.us.

Warm weather at the start of the year caused early pollination in some trees, exacerbating conditions for allergy sufferers and raising expectations that 2013 will see increased seasonal allergies. Metro asked immunologist Dr. Jennifer Collins, an assistant professor at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and author of the blog Itchy & Scratchy, for tips on combating the scurge.

Know what you’re allergic to
“Knowing what you’re allergic to is really important. An immunologist can test you and then give specific advice, and then give effective treatment. One of the things I see is people who have suffered for years and they don’t have to. The best thing about my job is helping people live a normal life.”

Manage with medications
“Many over-the-counter medications work just fine, but consult your doctor or an allergist. Steroids are used to help with the inflammation. There are side effects, long term, but steroids can stop acute allergies from becoming chronic. Allergy shots are effective. They introduce a small amount of an allergen and build gradually to trick the body. Eighty-five to 95 percent of people see about an 80 percent improvement and need less medication.”

Limit exposure to allergens at home
“Pollen levels are highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so close your windows. Make sure AC filters are clean and working effectively. If you have animals, wipe them down with a washcloth when you come in. Washing your sheets in hot water and regular cleaning will help, too.”

Sign up for alerts or get an app
“Lots of websites offer email alerts and there are apps, too. They help you to prepare for bad days. If you know the level is going to be high you can take your medication before going out and getting on with your normal life.”

Is it a cold, or an allergy?
“Symptoms can be difficult to differentiate from the common cold, because they include itchy eyes, runny nose — even itchy ears. You might get a sore throat, hives or welts on the arms, and sometimes asthma or coughing. Allergies can cause you to be more susceptible to bacterial or viral infection and can actually make you more vulnerable to a spring or summer cold.”

The post Beat your allergies this year appeared first on Metro.us.

A new report from the New York Women’s Foundation shows that women in New York are 30 percent more likely to die during childbirth than they were 12 years ago, the NY Daily News reported.

In the late 1990s, the maternal mortality rate for black women was around 40 per 100,000 live births. Last year, there were 79 deaths to every 100,000 live births. The rate for white women remained steady at 10 per 100,000 live births over that same period.

According to the report, Brooklyn is the “epicenter” of new HIV diagnoses for women, with 32 percent of New York women with new HIV diagnoses living in Kings County.

30 percent were from the Bronx.

Citywide, about 65 percent of the women with new HIV cases were black, and 30 percent were Latina.

NYWF President Ana Oliveira said that shame associated with HIV prevents people from seeking care, which contributes to the high rates of new cases.

“There is a lot of fear and stigma,” Oliveira explained. “People not only have to deal with the physical reality, but the social stigma.”

The report recommends investing in more job training and development programs for women in “high-demand” fields and industries with higher salary potential, as well as establishing programs to raise high school graduation rates among low-income girls.

Follow Danielle Tcholakian on Twitter @danielleiat

The post More NY women dying in childbirth appeared first on Metro.us.

Marc and Maya Silver

When Maya Silver was grappling with her mother’s breast cancer, she noticed that there weren’t many resources available for teens dealing with a parent’s cancer. So she tag-teamed with her dad — the author of “Breast Cancer Husbands — to create a survival guide for teens undergoing such duress, “My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks.” We asked the father-daughter duo about the best ways to help this underrepresented group cope.

You interviewed many teenagers for this book. Were there any recurring topics?

Maya: The friend issue came up over and over again, like, “My friends don’t really get it” or “I feel like I can’t talk to them about it.” Another thing was communication. [There was] a lot of variation in how much they wanted to know about their parent’s cancer. I think every teen valued being told the truth and being communicated with. We had a lot of teens say that their parents didn’t tell them right away or told them in a weird way and withheld information or made things seem sunnier than they really were. That really made the teens feel betrayed or like they didn’t know what was going on. We emphasize that in the book that communication is very important. It’s gonna vary from family to family, what works best and what everyone wants, but it has to be there.

Marc: Yeah. Some families have a family meeting tradition, and that’s fine, but some families don’t like family meetings and you don’t want to call the first meeting in your family’s history to present this news. Maybe your family works better just chatting in the car. Some people said maybe leave a notebook where everybody goes, and the kids write their questions and the parents read them and write their answers. The idea is that there’s no one size fits all way to tell the kids but like Maya said, you’ve got to be honest.

We often try to lend support to friends going through a rough time by saying something like, “If you need anything, let me know.” But Maya, what are some concrete words or actions that you appreciated when your mom was ill?

Maya: Just understanding. If I didn’t want to have any friends over to the house when my mom was really sick, or if I just wanted to get away and stay busy, I had people there to help me do that. You definitely hear a lot of “I’m so sorry!” [and] constant asking how you’re doing, how you’re family’s doing. That was not very helpful for me. Knowing that I had good friends around me and a strong family was very helpful.

What else did teens find not helpful?

Marc: One girl [we interviewed], Caitlin, went to school, and the teacher asked a question so Caitlin raised her hand to answer. And the teacher goes, “Oh, Caitlin, how’s your mom?” And Caitlin was so mad because she did not want to talk about or have to think about her mom at that moment  — she wanted to answer the question. Kids don’t want to be constantly reminded. A social worker at MD Anderson [Cancer Center] told me about a middle school’s boy’s mom who was diagnosed with cancer, and the school announced it over the [PA system]. They did it out of the best of intentions, I think to rally everybody around this kid, but this is not what that kid needed.

Maya: Another thing is an artificial sense of compassion. We had a couple of really out-there examples, like, “I know exactly how you feel, my gecko just died.” [Or] you tell someone that your mom has a serious form of breast cancer and they’re like, “Oh, my grandma’s sick too.” You want to be like, “You have no idea.”

What were some of most popular ways you found teens deal with their stress?

Marc: They found all kinds of ways to cope, and a lot of the ways they found were really positive, like listening to music, or going for a run, or writing in a journal, or playing video games. What’s cool about that is you’re learning how you can get through a tough time in life, and that’s something you can carry with you throughout your life.

Did you find any differences in how boys handled the issue, versus girls?

Marc: I interviewed a bunch of guys in Cleveland and two of them said that they punched a hole in their bedroom wall or in the house because they were so mad. After that, I asked every boy I interviewed, “So did you punch a hole in the wall?” and almost all of them said they did. (Laughs) There’s a little note in the book that’s how to repair that hole in the wall.

How much information should people at the teen’s school have?

Marc: It’s good if someone at school knows because that way the kid has a confidante. I think some kids might feel like, “Oh, I don’t want anyone at school to know.” And in general most of the experts that we interviewed said it’s really helpful to have someone at the school, even if it’s one person, who knows, because that way if there’s a change in the parents’ condition, if something’s going on at home, then you have a go-to person. If you want the teachers in the classroom to know, [that] can be helpful because a lot of kids were affected in the way they did their work at school — some kids overachieved, some kids just kind of stopped doing homework or didn’t focus as they usually did. It’s good if teachers understand why that’s happening.  And the parents and the kids can talk about it together.

In addition to the teens, you also interviewed a lot of experts. Did their advice match up with what the teens said?

Marc: I think they just emphasized that every kid’s gonna react differently and that that’s OK. One thing that’s surprising is they said some kids just don’t want to talk about it, and that’s OK. You can’t force the conversation when the kid doesn’t want to have it. The other thing that one expert talked about that was kind of intriguing, and I think this is something that adults can relate to too, she used this phrase “the tyranny of positive thinking.” The idea is that we live in a society where everybody wants you to be upbeat all the time and optimistic all the time, and you know what? People aren’t like that. It’s perfectly normal to be down and to be upset.

How can parents go about best communicating with their teen about their illness?

Maya: The first step to communicating is communicate about how you’re going to communicate. (Laughs) So instead of just assuming that your kid wants to know every detail, or that they don’t really want to know anything, or that they only want to hear good news, and instead of a parent assuming that the teen doesn’t want to talk about it, you should say from the outset, “We’re gonna have this experience for the next one to however many years —what do you want to know, and how would you like to communicate about this?” Like my dad said, some families, if they have preexisting family meetings, then that makes sense to have a weekly get-together and just kind of touch base and talk about what’s going on. Some teens might want to communicate through text, or email or whatever: Find out how your teen wants to communicate, and how much they want to know, and then you can adjust as needed.

Marc: It’s hard for a teen sometimes to confront a parent and say, “You’re not telling me enough.” A parent could say, like, a day later, “Hey, what I told you yesterday about dad’s surgery or mom’s chemotherapy, was that helpful? Was it too much information? Was it not enough information?” Ask follow-up questions and get a sense of what your kid needs from you.

The post Help for teens whose parents have cancer appeared first on Metro.us.

A new app from from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene aims to provide New York City teens with information about clinics and sexual health services at the click of a button — or tap of a finger.

The app is getting surprisingly little promotion, given the backlash from the mayor’s teen pregnancy ads, when many advocates and city officials accused the administration of wasting funds and energy on a shame campaign that did not focus enough or at all on providing access to information or resources.

“The app is a great step forward and I commend the administration,” said Councilwoman Anabel Palma, one of the city officials who took issue with the ad campaign. “But I still am extremely disappointed about the ads and upset the administration won’t change the messaging of stereotyping or stigmatizing current teen parents and past teen parents as well.”

Palma praised the app as a better proactive, preventative measure, insisting that “scare tactics don’t get teens to correct their behavior, education does.”

The app seizes on the fact that in New York state, teens are not required to get parental consent before receiving sexual health resources, information, or treatment.

The app has three components: a clinic search engine; information about various forms of birth control, including emergency contraception, and a reminder that both a condom and birth control must be used to be effective; as well as a section of video testimonials from teens.

The teens in the videos describe the experience of clinic visits, as well as other experiences teens may have trouble discussing with adults, including sexual attraction and unplanned pregnancies.

Some clinics are marked with a gold star, indicating they offer some services free of charge. All of the clinics included in the app’s directory have been screened by teen “mystery shoppers,” who visited the clinics in advance to make sure they’re adolescent-friendly.

The app also assures users that all of the clinics offer confidential sexual health services, so information will not be shared with parents or significant others. No information is logged by the app when downloading or using it, either.

The app, called Teens in NYC Protection +, is available via iTunes.

More information on teen health resources and services is accessible on nyc.gov by searching “NYC teen.”

Follow Danielle Tcholakian on Twitter @danielleiat

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With spring officially upon us, millions of urban commuters are beginning to shed their quilted coats and search for excuses to spend more time outside. Commuting to work by bicycle can be a great way to savor the sunshine and jump-start your fitness routine while being eco-friendly. While inexperienced city cyclists might feel intimidated by busy streets and speedy drivers, it is easy to gain confidence quickly while navigating a city on two wheels. After over a decade of riding and working with bicycles in Tampa and NYC, bike mechanic, Max Boyajian is familiar with the challenges cyclists face in crowded areas. He shared a few tips for starting out as a bike commuter.

Stay away from parked cars
Riding too close to parked cars can be dangerous. Many drivers do not check for bikes after they’ve parked, which increases the risk of opening their car doors right into an oncoming cyclist. Cyclists have the right to ride in the center of a lane – cars will naturally pass them when it is safe.

Keep calm with drivers
Even if they are following the rules of the road, city cyclists are bound to get honked at by irritated drivers. Although it is startling at first, they can’t let it rattle them. Cyclists should also avoid provoking drivers unnecessarily. Try not to make them angry, because they’re surrounded by a few tons of steel. “You’ve got to learn how to be honked at,” Boyajian says.

Anticipate weather conditions, and plan accordingly
If you plan on cycling in all weather, you’ll need the proper gear. Waterproof outerwear can protect you from rain. Keep your clothes still professional-looking by installing fenders onto your wheels. “They might look a dumb, but they’re better than a strip of mud across your back,” Boyajian says.

Be prepared for common problems
Simple multi-use tools are easy to carry, and can help you address minor performance issues on the fly. Cyclists can save money by learning how to change their own air tubes instead of visiting a bike shop to repair every flat. Keeping your tires fully inflated will also help your bike ride as smoothly as possible, which many people forget if they haven’t ridden recently. If a bike hasn’t been used through the winter, the tires will need air. If you don’t own your own pump, almost every bike shop has free air available to allow passing cyclists to fill up their tires.

Don’t get sweaty
“Bringing a backpack with a change of clothes is helpful, but you can also dress in lightweight clothes and ride at a casual pace if you don’t want to bring extra stuff,” Boyajian says.

One last thing
“Get a basket or a rack,” Boyajian says. “Just do it. It will change your life. I will accept thank yous for this advice later.”

The post Stay safe on your bike commute to work appeared first on Metro.us.

If you thought PMS, bloating and zits were all just the lowlights of being a woman, Alisa Vitti would like you to think again.

“We teach our patients to think what’s normal is not to have PMS, to feel great all month, to have natural conception, not to have post partum depression,” says Vitti, a women’s hormonal health expert and the author of “WomanCode: Perfect Your Cycle, Amplify Your Fertility, Supercharge Your Sex Drive and Become a Power Source.” “What’s normal is a sex drive that increases as you age, not decreases. What’s normal is to have a metabolism that’s helping you maintain your healthy weight effortlessly. Anything that’s not that isn’t normal. We shouldn’t get desensitized to that in our bodies or in our thinking.”

In college, Vitti, a med student at the time, thought her heavy weight, cystic acne and missed periods were due to polycystic ovarian syndrome, until she came across a small article about a disease called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome. Convinced this disease was the root of her problems, Vitti took the information to her doctor, who thought the best course of treatment would be medication. But “that wasn’t a good enough answer to ‘what do we do now?’” Vitti says. Instead, she did a lot of her own research on her condition and was shocked to find that diet played a role.

“I was exposed to some of the cutting edge research that was coming out from the Human Genome Project, which discovered this protein structure that wraps around your DNA strands,” she says. “It [works] like a switch. And the only thing that they found that would turn these switches on or off — to having your body express disease or health — was what you were eating and how you were living. And I thought, ‘Oh my God: If we can manipulate our gene expression with food and lifestyle, we can apply that to entire glands and organs and entire organ systems, like the endocrine systems.”

If you currently find yourself in hormonal hell, Vitti has a plan to get back on track — and it starts with your diet.

What to avoid:

Soy, specifically soy protein isolate: “Most convenient soy products that consumers purchase are highly concentrated in soy protein isolate. They are not getting the benefits of the whole bean. Rather, they are getting soy protein isolate, which is full of concentrated estrogen and exacerbates their hormonal symptoms,” Vitti says. “They did a crazy study in Brazil on female lab rats eating tofu —the uterus changed shape and it caused male infertility.” But fermented soy, including miso paste and tempeh, is OK in moderation, as is tofu in small quantities (as long as it’s organic and GMO-free).

Dairy: “The casein in dairy has been shown to build up a plaque on the small intestine,” Vitti says, blocking absorption of vital micronutrients. Concerned about calcium? Vitti says that on her plan, eliminating dairy also means adding in more foods that are other good sources of calcium, like kale, bok choy, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds

Gluten: “Wheat-based products cause such inflammation in the intestine,” Vitti says. “Most people are gluten-sensitive and don’t realize it.”

What to load up on:

Fermented foods: “Fermented foods provide the body with probotics, which help you absorb more nutrients. They also contain called Indole-3-carbinol which breaks down estrogen.”

Green juices: “You’re getting your high levels of antioxidants that help protect the ovaries.”

Sweet potatoes: “I love them for the vitamin A to help with your liver.”

Pasture-fed eggs (with the yolks): “They help the body make progesterone, which is the hormone that opposes estrogen and keeps you balanced in terms of your mood and keeps all those PMS symptoms away.”

Avocados: “I love avocados for the EFAs That keep our hormones really, really healthy.”

Spinach, kale and collard greens: “I love dark, leafy greens for the calcium and magnesium that help our body utilize hormones as we’re producing them.”

The post What your hormones are trying to tell you appeared first on Metro.us.

Last year’s Scotland Run

Ever wanted to run in a kilt? Saturday’s 10th Annual Scotland Run & Festival will give you the chance to do so. The 10K in Central Park will end with a Scotland festival featuring
music from Scottish hip hop group Stanley Odd, a genealogist, a photo booth, outdoor survival tips from a Bear Grylls Survival Academy grad, a trip giveaway to Scotland (for one lucky runner), face painting, dances and more. Swing by between 8 a.m. and noon, and sign up for the race at www.nyrr.org.

The Swedish Institute will host a two-day health fair this Thursday and Friday on the importance of hypertension (high blood pressure) screening. Hypertension, which can show no symptoms, can lead to heart attack and stroke. Stop by 151 W. 26th St. anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for your free screening.

Crunch Gyms is launching Stiletto Strength this month — a podiatrist-approved high heel workout designed to improve posture and strengthen the core — in partnership with Nine West. Visit www.crunch.com for schedules.

If you spend your days at the water cooler comparing your recent CSA gets with your colleagues, consider signing up for Katchkie Farm’s Workplace CSA, which will deliver vegetables directly to your office. The 60-acre organic farm in Kinderhook, N.Y., is offering 22-week and 11-week programs, with the first shipments arriving on June 11. For 22 weeks, the cost per person is $580 (sounds pricey, but that’s a pretty reasonable deal), and for 11 weeks, the cost is $290. A minimum of 20 employees are needed from each office. Learn more and sign up at www.katchkiefarm.com.

Tonight, the American Cancer Society is hosting the first public screening of “Decoding Annie Parker,” a film starring Helen Hunt about the discovery of the BRCA gene and its connection to breast cancer. Tickets are available at  http://decodingannieparker.eventbrite.com/ and sales go back to the American Cancer Society. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a 7 p.m. premiere, at the Directors Guilt Theater (110 W. 57th St.).

The post Health happenings around the city appeared first on Metro.us.

Topic of Study: Screen time and kids’ behavior
Location of study: U.K.
Study subjects: 11,000 children born between 2000 and 2002
Results: A study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood states that five year-olds who watch TV for more than three hours a day are more likely to engage in negative antisocial behaviors, such as fighting or stealing, by the age of seven. But researchers also found that time spent playing computer or electronic games had no impact on behavior.
Significance: The report stated that the risk of TV’s influence on behavioral development was found to be very small, adding little conclusive evidence to the long waged debate on how screen time affects children’s development.

Topic of Study: Microorganisms and obesity
Location of study: U.S.
Study subjects: 792 people
Results: Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have found that people whose breath had high concentrations of both hydrogen and methane gasses – that is, bad breath — were more likely to be overweight. The cause is an abundance of a microorganism called methanobrevibacter smithii, which helps convert food into energy.
Significance: “Usually, the microorganisms living in the digestive tract benefit us by helping convert food into energy. However, when this particular organism– M. smithii – becomes overabundant, it may alter this balance in a way that causes someone to be more likely to gain weight,” because they hold onto more calories, lead author Dr. Ruchi Mathur says.

Topic of Study: How diet influences disease
Location of study: U.S.
Study subjects: 380,000 people
Results: A 13-year study found that people who made seven lifestyle changes recommended by the American Institute for Cancer Research cut their risk of dying from many diseases – including cancer, circulatory disease and respiratory disease — by 34 percent, compared to those who did not follow the recommendations. The research, published in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” found that the greatest ways to reduce the risk of premature death was to avoid being overweight or obese (22 percent lower risk), and eat a plant-based diet (21 percent lower risk).
Significance: Researchers think that this is more evidence that diet and lifestyle greatly affect the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.

Topic of Study: Difficulty getting pregnant linked to neuro problems
Location of study: Denmark
Study subjects: 209 two-year-olds
Results: A study of children born to parents with impaired fertility — that is, those who fail to become pregnant within 12 months of trying — found that neurological development problems in their children were more likely. Most of the children studied were born to parents who become pregnant via fertility treatment. The study, published online in the Fetal & Neonatal Edition of Archives of Disease in Childhood, concluded that longer it took for the women to get pregnant, the more likely her child was to have neurodevelopment problems.
Significance: Ironically, the data shows that efforts to increase fertility may actually be causing more harm than good. Previous studies have found that children conceived via fertility treatment also have a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

The post Today in Medicine: More screen time linked to bad behavior in kids appeared first on Metro.us.

When you want something salty, reach for: Pirate’s Booty
These all-natural baked snacks will satisfy for your craving for something crunchy, all for half the fat and fewer calories. $1.49 per 1 oz. bag, grocery stores

When you want something sweet and salty, reach for: Kind Nut & Spices Bar
These bars contain “ingredients you can actually see and pronounce,” Palinski says, and pack just 5 grams of sugar or less per bar —unlike candy bars, which are loaded with sugar and bad fats. $2 per bar, grocery stores

When you want peanut butter, reach for: Van’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Whole Grain Snack Bars
What makes these gluten-free PB treats special? They boast four times the fiber of other gluten-free bars out there today. They also pack a serious punch of whole grains. $4.50, www.vansfoods.com

When you want something chocolately, reach for: Emerald’s Cocoa Roasted Nuts
You likely know that almonds are great for your heart, but if their taste has been holding you back, give these chocolate-dusted nuts a whirl. “Cocoa powder is rich in heart-healthy flavonoids with none of the added sugar and fat, making it a great way to add sweetness and flavor without increasing your calorie intake,” Palinski says. $5.89, grocery stores

When you want fruity candy, reach for: Brothers All Natural Fruit Crisps
Dried fruit can be a great substitute — if there’s no added sugar. But with this freeze-dried fruit, “the only ingredient is actual fruit- providing you with antioxidants and vitamins you won’t find in candy.” $1, www.brothersallnatural.com

When you want a soda, reach for: Polar Seltzer
A naturally-flavored seltzer like Polar “provides the same satisfaction of soda, but none of the sugar or calories, and none of the artificial ingredients,” says Palinski. $1.19, grocery stores

When you want a coffee, reach for: Zico Latte
The new ZICO Latte is a coffee-coconut water hybrid containing electrolytes, which hydrate better than water, and naturally occurring caffeine (a little less than a cup of coffee). “Coffee drinks can be loaded with added sugars, calories, and even saturated fat,” Palinski says. “[This] is lower in calories, sugar and fat than most pre-made coffee drinks.” $2.79 per 14 oz. bottle, grocery stores

The post Make over your snack break appeared first on Metro.us.

Comparing is a nasty habit. When we compare ourselves to others we get hooked into the belief that we’re better than or less than someone else. Comparing creates animosity, resentment, jealousy and competition. Living with this attitude can be very detrimental to your happiness and overall sense of peace. How can you be peaceful when you’re constantly comparing yourself?

Underneath the desire to compare is a deep rooted sense that we are not enough. When we feel an unconscious sense of lack then we project that lack onto others so we won’t feel so badly about ourselves. It’s a vicious cycle. For instance, maybe you’ve been single for a while and you often compare yourself to other people who are in relationships. This act of comparing sends you into a tizzy reiterating all that you don’t have and it makes you feel worse about yourself. Or maybe you’re someone who compares themselves to celebrities and notable figures. You always see yourself as less than and in effect you feel incomplete. Understanding this pattern is the first step towards transforming it.

Once you’re aware of your comparing habit the next step is to take action towards changing the behavior. The moment you witness yourself compare simply say, “The light I see in them is a reflection of my inner light.” Even if you don’t believe this affirmation or if you think it’s too new age-y, just try it. The action of perceiving oneness in the moment can release you of the need to compare. Even for an instant you can be set free. That is a miracle.

Let’s drive this exercise home with a little recap: Step One is to witness how you compare yourself to others. Become familiar with the behavior so you can recognize it when it comes on. Then Step Two is to shift the behavior in an instant with the affirmation, “The light I see in them is a reflection of my inner light.”

Practice this tool as often as possible and pay attention to your shifts. The shifts may be subtle at first, but you’ll feel relief in an instant. Set yourself free from the comparison cycle and be at peace with who you are.

The post How to stop comparing yourself to others appeared first on Metro.us.

Even though St. Johns won’t be a part of this year’s March Madness tourney (they lost to Villanova in the second round of the Big East tournament on March 13), the team has impressed New Yorkers over the years with its winning ways. We had Dixon show us some of the moves he has his players do, all of which can be done on a basketball court or at the gym.

Depth Jump
Why: In order to prepare your knees and lower body to handle the repeated jumps and increase knee stability
How: Start in an elevated position 3 to 6 inches off the ground with your feet hip width apart. “Bunny hop” off the edge and as you drop, transition your feet to just outside your shoulders and absorb the impact with your quads. Allow your knees to bend so you end up in a squat position. The trick is to keep your chest upright and allow your legs and hips to do all the work.
Tricks: Think of your body as a shock absorber so that rather than fighting the landing, you welcome it. Keep your feet flat and work on your balance as well.

Push-Up
Why: It’s a great upper-body strengthening exercise that doesn’t require any equipment and can be done anywhere.
How: Laying flat on your stomach with hands placed just outside your shoulders, push against the floor to lift your body. The real trick here is to suck your belly button in so that your core stays engaged and your entire body moves like stiff board. Your elbows should bend and follow a 45-degree arc between your side and arm. If you find your arms staying close to your body, your tricep is doing more work. If you elevate your elbows more toward your shoulder, it works your deltoids more.
Tricks: If the push-up is too difficult, try placing your hands on an elevated box or bench to place more weight on your feet. For more of a challenge try an unstable surface, like a foam roller, or adding a rotation to the movement.

Single Leg Split Squat:  
Why: This exercise strengthens the quad and hip as well as adds a balance and stability component for the ankle.
How: Standing upright, take one leg and place it in an elevated position behind you. Then bend your front leg until your femur is parallel to the ground. Make sure that your front knee always stays over your shoelaces. As you move you may have to squeeze your hip to keep everything in line.
Tricks: If your knee goes in front of your toes, you either need to lengthen your stance or sit back more and keep your chest upright.

Single-Leg Dead Lift:
Why: This exercise strengthens the hamstrings and glutes as well as adds a balance and stability component.
How: Standing in place, lean forward and reach an arm down to your opposite toe while hinging from the hip and simultaneously raising the opposite leg. As you move, there should be a straight line between your shoulder and the heel that is moving.
Tricks: Squeeze your butt cheeks together. All of the movement should come from your hips. Also, make sure that your hips stay straight and level. Think of them as a door hinge.

Post-workout fueling
We asked celeb nutritionist and fitness trainer Diana Le Dean to help us navigate our food choices after a tough session.

What types of food and drink are ideal to consume post-workout and why?
After a workout, a small meal of protein and carbohydrates is ideal for restoring glycogen levels and building muscle: Try a piece of fruit and a whey-protein shake. It’s also a good idea to stick with water, since most of us don’t get enough during the day.

How long after a workout should you start eating?
Don’t wait longer than an hour to eat once you workout. Your body needs to star digesting food as quickly as possible for maximum effect to take place.

What should you do if you’re not hungry right after a workout?
Wait fifteen minutes. You’ll probably start to feel a little appetite. Try at least to get some whey-protein and water down. Your body needs them no matter what your brain is telling you.

Our pick: TruMoo Chocolate Milk
Research has shown that chocolate milk is a great post-workout drink because it replenishes your muscles with carbs and protein. TruMoo’s reformulated drink now has 35 percent less total sugar than the leading competitor and 40 percent less added sugar than its previous recipe.

The post Follow the St. John’s Red Storm workout appeared first on Metro.us.

She might be so happy if she picks up an STI from a bikini wax.

Pubic hair removal may increase sexually transmitted infection risk
Location of study: France
Study subjects: 30 men and women with pubic hair removed
Results: A recent study published in “Sexually Transmitted Infections” found that Brazilian waxing and other types of pubic hair removal, including shaving, was a possible link to  an increased risk of a viral infection called molluscum contagiousum.  Molluscum contagiosum is a poxvirus that can be passed on through sex, but it is also easily spread by self-infection, such as scratching. Researchers say the risk seems higher with shaving than waxing and that other STIs, such as genital warts, could be more frequent with genital hair removal.
Significance: Over the past decade, researchers noted that the number of sexually transmitted cases molluscum contagiosum had risen, just as the popularity of pubic hair removal had also increased.

Night shifts could up odds of ovarian cancer
Location of study: U.S.
Study subjects:  1,101 women with a common advanced ovarian cancer, 389 with borderline disease and 1,832 women without ovarian cancer, all aged between 35 and 74.
Results: New findings published in “Occupational and Environmental Medicine” state that shift work may be associated with an increased risk of cancer. Researchers think that the result could be due to lower melatonin production. This hormone is mostly produced at night and regulates reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen. It also destroys cancer-causing free radicals and boosts antioxidant production in the body.
Significance: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified work schedules that disrupt the body’s normal time clock (circadian rhythm) as a probable cancer-causing agent.

Brain changes that happen in parenthood
Location of study: Japan
Study subjects: male mice
Results: A study published in “The Journal of Neuroscience” found that sexually naïve mice respond aggressively to chemical signals (most likely pheromones) from newborn pups, while pup pheromone perception is suppressed in fathers (sexually-active male mice), tending to make them more nurturing.
Significance: The findings may help scientists to better understand the changes that take place in the brains of some mammals during the transition into parenthood.

The post Today in Medicine: Brazilian and bikini waxing may up your STD odds appeared first on Metro.us.

The question:
I am exhausted and have trouble falling asleep. What can I do about insomnia?

As many as a quarter of all Americans report trouble sleeping. The immediate consequences of insomnia may result in daytime sleepiness, general fatigue, mood swings, headaches and problems paying attention to various tasks. Long-term sleep deprivation can result in depression, weight gain, lowered immunity, infections or an increased risk of illnesses including high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke.

Determining the cause of insomnia and finding an appropriate solution or treatment requires a systematic approach that takes into account various potential contributing factors. Some sleep disturbances can interfere with falling asleep, while others may affect staying asleep. These include:

Stress – emotional and physical, like pain due to injury or illness.
Physical conditions – mattress, pillows, sleeping partner
Environmental factors – noise, temperature, darkness
Food and medication side effects – caffeine, nicotine, diet, alcohol, cold and allergy remedies, blood pressure pills, hormones
Changes in sleep schedule — jet lag or overnight shift-work.

Start the process by taking an inventory of what seems to be interfering with your sleep. Do you drink three cups of coffee daily? Do you eat dinner after 8 p.m.? Is it noisy or too hot in your room? Are you taking a decongestant for a cold, making your heart race? Do you or your significant other snore? Are you under stress at work?

Attempts to modify circumstances within your control may yield immediate results. Prepare for sleep by adapting rituals that will allow you to unwind from your day so that you can clear your head. As hard as it may sound, try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.  Get regular exercise. Resist taking naps if you have insomnia (if you don’t, they’re OK). Take a warm bath or shower, drink some herbal tea or warm milk, and read a few chapters of a book.

You can also adapt your environment to make condition for sleeping optimal. Try a few different kinds of pillows and linens until you find ones you like. Keep the room cool, dark and quiet. Get all electronics out of the bedroom so that you are not tempted to wake up and “check on things,” or watch programs you’ve DVR’d in the middle of the night. Take an over-the-counter analgesic like acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil) to relieve any musculoskeletal pain or a headache, and avoid stimulants like nicotine, caffeine and alcohol late in the day. All of these things influence sleep quality and are likely within your immediate control.

If after doing your best to optimize your chances for a good night of sleep, you are still staring at the ceiling in the middle of the night, it may be time to consult a physician. Over-the-counter sleeping pills generally make use of the “drowsy” side effects of antihistamines, and may make you hung over the next day, or exacerbate underlying conditions contributing to your insomnia. Your doctor can better assess the risks and benefits of various prescription sleep aids; any contribution to insomnia by underlying medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease, or sleep apnea; as well as recommend mental health counseling if applicable to any stressful circumstances beyond your immediate control.

The post Help for insomniacs appeared first on Metro.us.

Weddings bring out the desire to shape up for everyone involved. Follow these 5 simple tips from Peak Performance Trainer Jessi Kneeland to help you slim down before the big day.

1. Commit to it
When setting your weight loss goals, allow yourself enough time to lose 1-2 pounds a week. Start Phase 1, which I call the “Healthy Lifestyle Choice Phase” as soon as you can, especially if you have a significant amount of weight to lose. Limit processed food and sugar, increase veggies and protein, exercise regularly, drink a lot of water and get plenty of sleep.

Then start Phase 2 which I call “Crunch Time Phase,” about 6-8 weeks before your final fitting. This phase includes cutting all sugars, alcohol, dairy and starchy carbs, depending on how far from your ultimate goal you are. It can also include increasing your exercise commitment by either frequency or intensity. If you’re doing 3 days a week, now is the time to increase to 5 or 6 days a week. If you’ve been using the pink dumbbells, now is the time to head to the actual weight room. Be careful not to do too much too soon. Beginning a strict diet or training regime 3-4 months in advance can feel overwhelming and cause you to lose motivation with still a month to go.

2. Weight train
To achieve a slimmed down and tone look, weight training is the best option. You simply cannot achieve the tight, toned look people want by only doing cardio. For most brides during crunch time, I suggest weight training 3 times a week in addition to cardio 2 to 3 times a week. I also encourage a weekly yoga class, to remember to breath, stretch and focus on themselves. Crunch time often coincides with the most stressful weeks of wedding-planning, so this often gets forgotten.

3. Make a vow…to your fitness routine
This will vary from bride to bride, but I’d suggest a minimum commitment of 5 workouts a week. You can always add cardio in the morning or a yoga class here and there — but at minimum you should be exercising 5 times a week. Don’t forget to commit to buying, prepping and cooking most of your own food, so that you never have to decide between a muffin or a bagel for breakfast. Writing down your goals can also be helpful and reassuring when you’re feeling tired, hungry and cranky.

4. Be upfront with your seamstress
Tell her your goals, and be honest about how close you think you can reach your goal size. She needs to know at your first fitting that you plan to lose a few inches from everywhere. She might discourage further weight loss after the second fitting, but she should know your goals the first time she examines the dress so that she can assess the situation based on the cut and material of the dress. You may have to be in “wedding shape” several weeks before your big day, which just means that you’ll be in maintenance-mode for a few weeks after you’ve hit your goal.

5. Do some last-minute prep
The third and final phase starts about 72 hours before you walk down the aisle. I recommend cutting your sodium intake down, drinking lots of water and cutting out all dairy and starchy carbs. Plan a workout that hits the muscles you want highlighted in your dress. Most importantly — sleep as much as you can, get a massage and enjoy yourself!

The post 5 Tips to get in shape for your wedding appeared first on Metro.us.

Talk to your doctor about any fears you may have about getting a colonoscopy. Chances are he or she can alleviate them.

We carry around about 20-25 feet of it every minute of our lives and, yet, until something goes wrong we are oblivious to it. Yep, we’re talking about the colon, or lower bowl. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a designation that aims to draw attention to a crucial part of the body’s digestive system. About 150,000 cases of colon cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. annually, about 50,000 of which are fatal. We asked Dr. Giancarlo Mercogliano, the chief of gastroenterology for Philly’s Main Line Health System, for his tips on avoiding those statistics.

Maintain a healthy weight
“Being overweight is linked to colon cancer,” Dr. Mercogliano says. “We are not sure of a direct link or whether that’s because an overweight person has an unhealthy diet and eats the wrong things. But keeping weight in check is important.”

Eat less meat
“The Western high-fat, high-meat diet is linked with colon cancer. In Africa, where many people eat a mostly vegetarian diet, there is less incidence of colon cancer. In Asia, too, where less meat is eaten, there is less incidence.”

Limit your alcohol intake
“Moderate drinking might be healthy — that’s small, specified doses. While drinking a glass of red wine has been shown to be healthy, the normal amounts [that people drink] is not.”

Take your vitamins
“Vitamin D, calcium and folic acid have been shown quite clearly to prevent colon cancer. Aspirin too: The data is conflicting, but in a study, aspirin seemed to shrink polyps, which are thought to be precancerous.”

Quit smoking, get moving
“Smokingpromotes all cancers and that includes colon cancer. Also, exercise that benefits the whole body benefits the colon.”

Get a colonoscopy
“Colon cancer is the third leading cancer killer among both men and women,” says Dr. David Robbins, a gastroenterologist at the Manhattan Endoscopy Center. “It will affect one in twenty Americans. It can be detected at a very early stage with a brief, painless test called a colonoscopy. Catching colon cancer early gives doctors an excellent shot at curing this often-preventable cancer.” The American Cancer Society recommends men and women begin colonoscopy screening at age 50. But people at greater risk from hereditary or ethnic factors — such as people with a family history and African Americans — begin at age 45, or younger. “Most insurance covers colonoscopy screening at age 50, says Dr. Robbins. “If you are 65 or older, colonoscopy is covered by Medicare.” And don’t worry about any pain: You’re under anesthesia for the procedure, so you won’t feel a thing.

Colon cancer: One young woman’s cause
“When I was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer at 28, I didn’t react “normally” — I wasn’t mad, sad or scared,” says Gloria Borges, a Stave IV colon cancer fighter and founder of The Wunder Project. “Instead, I made it a challenge, and despite the odds, I was ready to beat cancer. I started a blog detailing my cancer-killing adventures, and with support, I founded a colon cancer non-profit. My focus now is finding the cure through The Wunder Project (www.thewunderproject.org), a methodical and cutting-edge research initiative led by myself and my world-renowned oncologist. It will start with raising $250M and will end with the cure for colon cancer. Now at 31, I’m on my 45th round of chemo and living with this disease that kills 50,000 of my fellow fighters each year. The Wunder Project’s goals are ambitious, that I know, but I am ready to lead and find the cure for us all.”

The post Top ways to avoid colon cancer appeared first on Metro.us.

If you subscribe to the Monday Campaigns’ “Meatless Monday” mindset, where you forgo meat once a week for health reasons, you don’t have to slave in the kitchen for a plant-based Monday night meal: Many of the city’s chefs are getting on board the vegetarian wagon.

“Meatless Monday is expanding our clientele, challenging our cooks, and supporting our local growers,” says Jason Weiner of Almond, who offered Meatless Monday in his Bridgehampton restaurant last year and now has it at his 22nd Street eatery. “Put simply, Meatless Mondays is win, win, win. In retrospect, I have no idea why the heck it took me so long to get on board.”

Here are some popular city eateries offer special Meatless Monday menus:

Almond
Babbo Ristorante
Bar Jamon
Casa Mono
Cookshop,
Dell’anima
Del Posto
Dovetail
Lupa
Otto
Smorgas Chef
Brooklyn Taco at Essex Market

The post It’s Meatless Monday: Here’s where to eat dinner tonight appeared first on Metro.us.

If you’re on the train or bus right now, do this little self-check: Are you bending your neck to read this? Are you fidgeting from one foot to the next? Is there a gym bag or heavy purse on your shoulder? If so, those little aches and pains you’ve been complaining about might be due to how you get yourself to and from work each day.

“I hear this all the time with patients,” says Dr. Louis Peterson, a chiropractic physician in New York City (www.petersonchiropracticnyc.com). “They’ll come in [saying] ‘Oh, my neck’s sore.’ Those little things start to add up on the commute.”

And they can add up to long-term consequences, he says. “What you end up [getting is] a sprain-strain injury, where your neck actually gets strained. The muscle fibers start to get slight tears in them. Most people just aren’t aware.”

We asked Dr. Peterson to explain how we should be traveling to and from work.

Try to stay awake
Anyone looking for some extra Z’s shouldn’t find them on the subway: “When [commuters] fall asleep, with their neck stuck to one side, eventually problems [develop],” Dr. Peterson says. “It’s really not good. The neck gets strained.” The fix: “Have your neck up and supported.”

Make it a balancing act
“If you’re standing and holding on, you should try to distribute your weight. You shouldn’t be on one foot or the other,” Dr. Peterson says. And don’t get distracted: Using your phone or trying to read will make your head point downward, which you’re trying to avoid.

Hold your book (or your Nook, or your Metro!) up
“One of the biggest things I see is, when you’re commuting, you’re spending a lot of time reading and your head is face-down. That causes issues with the neck, and that’s always problematic.”

Hold your bags or purses correctly
“Backpacks are the acceptable bags, not having a single bag trying to balance on the shoulders,” Dr. Peterson warns. If you have a purse, “hold it in your hand, not on your shoulder, [because the shoulder] is where you get problems.” Indeed, if you rest a bag there, your shoulder can “get tilted one way or the other,” he says. “You tend to yank that shoulder up higher, and after a while your neck cricks up.”

Walk this way
Sorry, ladies, but you really should go for the whole suit-with-sneakers look. “You can put your heels on at work,” Dr. Peterson says. “When commuting, you should try to stay away from it. It puts an enormous amount of pressure in your lower back.”

Stretch
It’s not just for athletes: “If you have some pains, try simple stretches for the neck or the low back,” Dr. Peterson advises. “If it hurts, [use] ice; if you’re really dire, give me a call.”

The post How to have a pain-free commute appeared first on Metro.us.