- UncategorizedGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWe all know we shouldn’t eat fast food, but most of us can’t help ourselves. The convenience, speed, and flavors of fast food make it tempting, but it’s important to recognize that ultra-processed foods come with health risks. While there are many definitions, think of ultra-processed as food you can’t make from scratch. Sixty percent of the average American adult’s diet consists of ultra-processed food. Diets heavy in ultra-processed foods are linked to higher risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart problems, cancer and more. That’s because the food industry designs these foods so we crave and buy them more. As a result, these foods contain higher amounts of sugar, salt, and fat, and lower amounts of fiber compared to less processed alternatives. One study found that people ate 500 more calories a day when offered diets based on canned or processed meats and frozen potato sides, compared to those who ate fruits, vegetables, and fresh meats. The good news? It’s easier than you think to cut back on ultra-processed foods. Eat ultra-processed food in smaller quantities Trying to cut out your favorite ultra-processed snacks altogether could set you up for failure. Instead, try to eat ultra-processed foods in smaller quantities. That way, you won’t fill up on high-in-calorie, low-in-nutrient food. Don’t eat chips straight from the bag. Instead, put a handful in a small bowl to prevent overeating. At your favorite ice cream shop, order one scoop instead of two and skip the toppings. A rule of the thumb? Order the kids portion if possible. Choose healthier ultra-processed options Not all ultra-processed foods are created equally. Plain pretzels and whole-grain crackers and hummus are better than chips, since they have less saturated fat and calories. Some ultra-processed foods can even be healthy. Whole grain bread without added sugar is technically ultra-processed but it’s also high in fiber and nutrient dense. When buying highly processed foods, compare calories, fiber, sugar, and salt content to make a healthier choice. Watch your drinks Beverages can be heavily processed too. Sports drinks and sodas have a long list of chemical ingredients. Caffeinated drinks can also be high in sugar and artificial flavors. A vanilla latte at a popular coffee shop might pack around 250 calories. Stick to non-sweetened drinks like water and tea as much as possible. If you’re craving soda, try mixing juice and soda water. If you want to order coffee, choose one without flavors, as flavored coffees often include sugary syrup. You can also make your coffee healthier by skipping the whipped cream and requesting skim milk instead of whole milk. Make smart choices at restaurants We all need a break from cooking once in a while. Making healthier choices when going out to eat can be as simple as ordering a small burger without fries or soda. On the side, consider a small salad and ask for a vinaigrette dressing, which packs far fewer calories than cream-based dressings. Avoid salad toppings, like croutons, bacon bits, or tortilla chips, which can be high in fat and salt. Check the ingredients list Foods low in sugar or fat are healthy, right? Not exactly because they are often packed with salt and additives. Pay close attention to the ingredients list and look for chemicals, like guar gum, polysorbates, mono- and diglycerides, carrageenan, and soy lecithin. Strive for products with fewer additives, as this often indicates a higher proportion of real food ingredients. Pay attention as well to the daily value percentage, or how much of the maximum daily amount of sodium, fat, and sugar a product contains. If a package of beef jerky has more than half of the salt you should consume in a day, it’s probably not worth it. The bottom line: small steps can add up Whether you order your coffee with skim milk, skip the fries with your burger, or decide to have whole grain crackers as a snack, you are taking little steps that can make a big difference in your overall health. Author Nowreen Haq, MD, is an endocrinologist at Luminis Health who focuses on cardio metabolic outcomes, complex diabetes, obesity and transgender endocrinology.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center and Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center have received high marks and the designation of “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Top Performer” in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 16th anniversary edition of the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). Out of the 1,065 healthcare facilities who participated in the survey, only 462 were distinguished as high performers. “As we celebrate Pride Month, this recognition reinforces our commitment to equitable treatment for all individuals and reaffirms Luminis Health’s on-going dedication to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI),” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “Discrimination has no place at any of our hospitals, and we remain steadfast in delivering exceptional patient experiences that enhance the health of the people and communities we serve.” The HEI evaluates and scores healthcare facilities on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars: Foundational Policies and Training in LGBTQ+ Patient-Centered Care; LGBTQ+ Patient Services and Support; Employee Benefits and Policies; and, Patient and Community Engagement. Luminis Health recognizes the importance of providing compassionate and inclusive care to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. By offering implicit bias training for our staff, we ensure that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed and respected. The health system also understands the significance of asking patients their preferred pronouns, as it acknowledges and affirms their identity. Luminis Health proudly cultivates a supportive atmosphere within the organization with a dedicated LGBTQIA+ Business Resource Group for employees. We actively engage with the LGBTQIA+ community by sponsoring and participating in annual Pride events. Internally, the health system fosters an environment of openness through regular meetings, encouraging candid discussions where concerns and ideas are freely shared. “Everyone who enters our facilities should feel valued, understood, and supported on their journey to wellness,” said Deneen Richmond, Luminis Health’s Chief Quality, Equity and Population Health Officer.. “This dedication is reflected in our values of Respect, Inclusion, Service and Excellence. At Luminis Health, we RISE by lifting others.”
- Patient Stories, Plastic Surgery & Skin CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAfter years of struggling with a large chest, Elliot Gordon (name changed for privacy) decided to look into top surgery, which is the removal of breast tissue to create a more masculine appearance. It’s a form of gender-affirming care. Gordon developed breasts at a young age and not only found them uncomfortable but as they got older, they did not identify as a woman and did not want breasts. “I never liked having breasts. They caused back and neck pain,” says Gordon. In addition, Gordon has a strong family history of breast cancer. They reached out to Luminis Health to learn about surgical treatment options. After learning about Gordon’s discomfort, identity and family history, the breast surgery and plastic surgery teams decided to work together to treat Gordon. A Luminis Health breast surgeon performed a double mastectomy to remove breast tissue. The plastic surgery team worked on the reconstruction and design of incisions to give Gordon an aesthetic flat closure. “It was a great experience,” says Gordon. “Everyone treated me with respect and kindness. I could not have asked for a better team.” “It was an honor to treat Gordon,” says Derek Masden, MD. “Not only did surgery reduce Gordon’s risk of cancer, it helped them feel comfortable in their own skin.” In Gordon’s case, the surgery was considered a mastectomy, which is used to treat breast cancer and can be done preventatively for those with a high risk of developing cancer. In other cases, breast removal for gender-affirming care is considered top surgery. While not related to cancer, it is incredibly important for the lives of transgender people. Here are a few benefits of gender-affirming care: Improves Mental Health: Gender affirming care can significantly reduce gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that transgender individuals may experience. Improves Body Satisfaction: Hormone therapy and surgeries can help transgender individuals feel more comfortable and satisfied with their bodies, reducing feelings of distress or discomfort associated with physical characteristics incongruent with their gender identity. Strengthens Relationships: Gender affirming care can help transgender individuals build healthier relationships with themselves and others by fostering self-acceptance, authenticity, and open communication. Supports Long-Term Health Outcomes: Gender affirming care can contribute to better long-term health outcomes by addressing both physical and mental health needs, ultimately reducing healthcare disparities among transgender individuals. If you or someone you know is interested in gender-affirming surgery, please visit our Plastic Surgery group to request a consultation.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogNational Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that Emergency Department (ED) personnel play in safeguarding our communities’ health and well-being. This year holds particular significance as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of President Ford’s establishment of EMS Week. Now more than ever, amidst unprecedented challenges, we honor the dedication of medical personnel who provide around-the-clock lifesaving services, such as first responders, emergency medical technicians, physicians, nurses, and countless others. During Emergency Medical Services Week (May 19-25), let’s recognize the invaluable contributions of these individuals who save lives and provide critical care when every second counts. Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, with more than 120 years of proud history, has one of the busiest EDs in the entire country and is one of the few hospitals in the state with a pediatric ED. With nearly 95,000 ED visits each year, it takes a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, receptionists, other hospital staff and volunteers who work tirelessly 24 hours a day to give you the care you need as quickly as possible. Knowing emergency rooms can feel frightening for young patients, we have a dedicated space with kids in mind. At our pediatrics ED, children receive tailored attention from a specialized team ready to treat their unique needs. For all patients, we use a process called triage to carefully prioritize who needs care first. Treatment is administered based on the severity of their condition, with those facing life-threatening illness or injury receiving immediate attention. This means that someone who arrives after you may receive care before you. At Luminis Health, we believe in a culture of mutual caring: We provide the best care possible in a healing environment and we always treat each other with respect and dignity. Caring for and protecting patients, families, employees, and our community, is important to us. Dealing with an emergency is stressful, particularly when waiting for care in an Emergency Department. We try to minimize this stress by initiating care in our waiting room and keeping our patients informed while waiting. Luminis Health has also made significant investments to offer more expansive care programs for mental health, substance use and domestic violence in our ED. Additionally, Maryland lawmakers recently provided funds to enhance security for staff and patients, and creating de-escalation spaces in the Pediatrics Emergency Department. During EMS Week, it’s also important to recognize the challenges some of our ED staff face from time to time. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, 2 out of 3 Emergency Department physicians reported being assaulted in 2022. One quarter of them reported being assaulted multiple times a week. That’s why Luminis Health supports the Safety from Violence for Healthcare Employees (SAVE) Act. If enacted by Congress, the law would provide protections similar to those that exist for flight crews, flight attendants and airport workers. As we continue to improve ED wait times, we also ask for your help to ensure you receive timely care, by taking these steps: Make sure you bring everything you need for emergency care Your time in the Emergency Department will be more efficient if you bring essential items for your care team, such as the following: Driver’s license or identification card For individuals covered by a health insurance plan, your insurance card List of medical history, medications and allergies, primary physician, specialists Urgent care is another option There are many situations in which the ED is the best place to go for care, such as life-threatening injuries or conditions. In other cases, urgent care centers are a convenient option for minor issues such as cough and cold symptoms, minor cuts, sprains and strains, etc. Telehealth visits are refreshingly easy If your situation is not a true emergency, Luminis Health offers CareConnectNow, a virtual urgent care service for ages 13 and up. We provide expert care for many conditions that need immediate, but not emergency, attention. With the availability of after-hours and weekend virtual visits, we aim to accommodate your schedule. You can also access this convenient service by calling (443) 951-4270. At Luminis Health we continue to evaluate and explore ways to ensure a positive patient experience. That is our commitment to our community. We thank you for your patience, support, and your own efforts as we strive to improve emergency care for every patient. Let us carry forward the appreciation and recognition for the unwavering dedication of our Emergency Department personnel during EMS Week and throughout the year. Authors Dr. Michael Kent, is the emergency department medical director at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center Dr. Lauren Fitzpatrick, medical director of pediatrics at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center
- Behavioral HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAt any age, mental health challenges can arise. While significant focus has been rightly given to mental well-being in younger people, it’s crucial not to overlook our seniors. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) underscores this, revealing that up to 25% of older adults live with mental health issues, like anxiety or depression. If left untreated, mental health conditions can negatively affect your physical well-being and quality of life. Fortunately, many factors contributing to mental health decline are avoidable. As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month and Older Americans Month, now is an ideal time to implement these five strategies aimed at preserving your mental well-being as you grow older. 1. Nurture/invest social connections Loneliness and social isolation can significantly increase mental health issues later in life. They can also increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and early death. These tips can help nurture/invest social connections: Stay in touch with friends and family via social media or video chat. Virtual meet-ups can help you feel less alone. Volunteer. Giving back to others can help you meet people in your community. It can also provide a sense of purpose that older adults may lose after retirement. Get tested and treated for hearing loss. It affects one in three adults aged 65 to 74, according to NCOA. Hearing loss can make it difficult to follow what’s happening around you. It’s a common reason older adults withdraw from social interaction. 2. Get regular physical activity Sitting for long periods of time and lack of physical activity can increase your risk of depression. Physical activity can boost your mood. For overall health and well-being, older adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking, each week, or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise, like running. Talk to your primary care provider and decide what’s best for you. They also need at least two days of strength-building and balance activities, which can be done from the comfort of your home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends multicomponent physical activities to meet these triple goals. Try these: Sign up for a dancing class at a local community center for older adults. Take up yoga or Tai-chi. There are many online offerings at no cost. Explore outdoor activities like gardening or hiking. But remember to stay hydrated. 3. Try music therapy Listening to or making music seems to activate brain areas that can improve mental and physical health. Research finds that music-based interventions may be helpful for anxiety, depression and chronic pain. Go ahead and play that oldie but goodie! 4. Reduce caregiver stress Some older adults face the added emotional challenges of caregiving. According to a 2023 AARP Survey, 50% of caregivers said caregiving increased their emotional stress, while 37% said it caused physical stress. If you’re a caregiver, the Luminis Health Caring for Caregivers page provides self-care tips and local caregiver resources. These can help you care for your loved one while taking care of yourself. 5. Recognize mental health issues Depression is common in older adults, but it’s not a normal part of aging. Less than half of older adults who struggle with mental health and substance use issues get the treatment they need. Getting help starts with scheduling regular checkups with your primary care doctor. They can help you manage physical limitations or medical conditions, such as post-stroke or cancer recovery, which may increase your risk of depression. Should you or your loved one experience any of the following symptoms persistently for more than two weeks, it’s crucial to inform your doctor, as they could point to mental health issues: Anger or irritability. Anxious or sad mood. Changes in appetite, mood and energy level. Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much. Drug or alcohol misuse. Feeling guilty or hopeless. Hearing, feeling or seeing things other people don’t. Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed, including sex. Next steps After ruling out medical causes, your doctor may start treatment for a mental health condition, or refer you to a mental health professional for evaluation and treatment. Mental health problems are often treated with a combination of medication and talk therapy. You can receive high-quality mental and behavioral health services at The Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center Behavioral Health Pavilion on our Lanham campus. You can also call 301-623-4350.
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