- UncategorizedGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAre you thinking of eating a more plant-based diet in the year ahead? You’re not alone. There is a lot of buzz about choosing to go meatless a few times a week, or even considering adopting a wholly plant-based diet. That’s because plant-based diets are, in general, healthier than diets heavy on meat and dairy products. People who eat plant-based diets have lower risks of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. They’re also less likely to be obese. But ‘plant-based’ doesn’t always mean healthy. Vegan foods can sometimes be worse than meat alternatives. Here’s how to reap the rewards and avoid the pitfalls of a plant-based diet. Watch Out For Sodium in Imitation Meats Many plant-based burgers (which come frozen or fresh) aren’t always healthier than beef or chicken burgers. In some cases, they’re just as high in saturated fats and higher in sodium than meat-based burgers. For example, a four-ounce patty of one popular plant-based burger contains 380mg of sodium. By comparison, some frozen four-ounce beef burgers contain 75mg of sodium. Likewise, plant-based deli meat imitations can be just as salty as actual deli meat. Diets high in sodium increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. “Instead of replacing meat with fake meat substitutes, aim to get your protein from beans, lentils and tofu,” says Dr. Arsalan Sheikh, the medical director for diabetes and endocrinology at Luminis Health. If you’re switching to plant-based foods solely for health reasons, you’re better off eating lean, unprocessed meat than a salty imitation. Not all foods labeled plant-based are natural Those who find it hard to cook plant-based or vegetarian meals might turn to the frozen aisle, where they’ll find pizzas, samosas, veggie ‘nuggets’, veggie loaf and more. The problem? Frozen and processed vegan foods can be high in additives and preservatives. In fact, some plant-based meals can have more additives and thickeners to mimic the texture of meat. One 2022 study found men who eat diets heavy in highly processed foods have a 30% higher risk of getting colorectal cancer. Another recent study found that people who ate diets heavy in processed foods were more likely to die of cardiovascular diseases. It’s not clear exactly why processed foods are so bad for your health. One theory is that chemical ingredients added to foods to improve the shelf life, taste or texture of food could be more difficult for the body to break down. Plus, heavily processed foods are higher in sugar, salt and fat than less processed foods. The secret to a healthy plant-based diet is to “avoid foods with long lists of ingredients, especially ingredients you don’t recognize,” says Dr. Sheikh. Rather than buying already-prepared meals, Dr. Sheikh recommends preparing plant-based foods at home with simple ingredients — like fresh or frozen vegetables, canned or dried beans and whole grains. You can miss key nutrients Meat has nutrients that can be hard, but not impossible, to find in plants. For example, iron, zinc and vitamin B12. Likewise, milk and yogurt are full of calcium and fortified with vitamin D. If you’re switching entirely to a plant-based diet, it’s a good idea to consult a dietician or nutritionist. They can help ensure you’re getting these important vitamins and minerals, whether through food or supplements. They can also make sure you’re getting enough protein through soy, beans and other plant-based foods. “Whenever you’re making a big change to your diet, it’s a good idea to get expert advice,” says Dr. Sheikh. After all, changing what you eat is hard work. It helps to have someone in your corner. Bottom line: Plant-based diets are healthier if you stick to the same tried-and-true advice as conventional diets Can you improve your health by incorporating more plant-based meals into your life? Absolutely, but you’ll need to apply the same rules that apply to healthy, conventional diets. That means planning a diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, not just picking up ‘plant-based’ burgers and assuming it’s good for you. It also means choosing whole grains and starches, such as brown rice or pasta, whole grain bread and sweet potatoes. Remember, too, that fried and highly processed foods should be “once in a while” foods, even if they have a ‘plant-based’ label on them. Author Arsalan Sheikh, DO, is the medical director for diabetes and endocrinology at Luminis Health.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Health is proud to announce that Deneen Richmond, president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC), has been named one of Modern Healthcare's 2024 Diversity Leaders. Modern Healthcare recognizes executives and organizations annually for their efforts to advance equity and inclusion within their organizations, and the healthcare industry at large. “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this national recognition for our commitment to championing diversity at Luminis Health and within the communities we serve,” said Deneen Richmond, president of LHDCMC. “I want to thank our dedicated team of caregivers and staff for their commitment to lead as an anti-racist organization, their passion for eliminating health disparities, and their dedication to improving health outcomes for all by providing high-quality patient care close to home.” Modern Healthcare has honored Richmond for her dedication to several key initiatives, including: Founding the HEART Force: Richmond played a pivotal role establishing Luminis Health’s Health Equity & Anti-Racism Task (HEART) Force, which advocates for Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (JEDI) policies Championing Workforce Diversity: Richmond is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, with 84% of the hospital staff and 80% of her C-Suite identifying as racial/ethnic diverse Addressing Health Disparities: In support of Luminis Health’s strategic goal to eliminate maternal and infant mortality, Richmond is leading a major expansion of the hospital campus to include adding comprehensive inpatient obstetrics services. This initiative addresses critical health disparities, as the maternal mortality rate for Black women is 50% higher than the national average “Our Diversity Leaders in Healthcare awards have been changed to honor a new group of individual honorees each year and our 2024 class sets the bar high,” said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare. “Some have been working on DEI initiatives for decades while others are newer to their positions and already have made a difference. The organizations honored set an example, from their leadership ranks to their programming efforts, of the results that can be achieved across a workplace. We hope industry leader continue to prioritize these efforts to better reflect, internally and externally, the communities they serve.” Modern Healthcare will honor Richmond, and all the 2024 Diversity Leaders, at an awards gala in Chicago in September.
- Behavioral Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIt won’t be long before your kids are back to school, and while you’re making sure they have new clothes and all the supplies they need, be sure to take stock of their mental health. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one out of every six students ages 6 to 17 has a treatable mental health issue such as anxiety or depression. Like with physical health issues, early identification and intervention can help prevent mental health issues from affecting your child’s academic performance and personal development. What causes mental health issues in children? Various factors contribute to mental health issues among students, including: Academic pressure: High grades, tests, and college admissions can create anxiety and chronic stress, impacting emotional health. Some levels of stress are normal, but chronic stress can lead to burnout and emotional distress. Encourage your children to take a balanced approach to schoolwork. Social dynamics: Positive peer interactions boost self-esteem, while bullying can lead to severe consequences like anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Promote healthy relationships for your child and take immediate action if bullying is suspected. Technology: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can foster loneliness and cyberbullying, necessitating healthy digital habits. Monitoring online activities can help mitigate these risks. Home environment: Supportive families build resilience, while stress or conflict can magnify mental health issues. Overscheduling: Encourage free time for rest and creativity to prevent overscheduling, allowing your kids the space to rejuvenate and explore their creativity without constraint. Developmental changes Each academic phase presents unique challenges: Elementary school (kindergarten to grade 5). Younger children may experience separation anxiety, difficulty with social skills, and adapting to structured environments. Middle school (grades 6 to 8). Pre-teens face the pressures of puberty, identity formation, and increased academic demands. Social acceptance becomes more important to them, and bullying or peer pressure can significantly affect their mental health. High school (grades 9 to 12). Teenagers deal with the complexities of preparing for adulthood, including higher academic expectations, romantic relationships, and career planning. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety often emerge during these years. Mental health resources Schools can’t do it alone. Luminis Health recently received a grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission to partner with Prince George’s County Public Schools to implement comprehensive support services at six high schools. Beginning with the 2024-25 school year, Luminis Health is deploying mental health providers directly to the schools, collaborating with school counselors to offer vital support to students and parents. These embedded providers will rotate through the schools, providing education and training to students, parents, and teachers, ensuring access to evidence-based screening tools for identifying individual needs and strengths on an ongoing basis. Support Strategies Here’s how to bolster your child’s mental health: Regular check-ins. Talk regularly with your child about their feelings and experiences. Creating a safe space for those discussions can help you identify issues early. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Help your child explore the benefits of mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques as ways to not manage stress and anxiety, but also to foster a deeper spiritual connection within themselves. Physical activity. Regular physical activity, such as sports, yoga, or even walks, can help improve your child’s mood and reduce stress. A healthy lifestyle. Make sure your child eats a balanced diet and gets enough sleep. Limiting their screen time can have a positive impact on mental health. Professional support. Do not hesitate to get professional help when needed. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of a student's overall well-being. Understanding the challenges K-12 students may face daily and implementing supportive strategies can help ensure they have the resources and resilience to succeed academically and personally. If you, or your children, need mental health support, the Luminis Health Behavioral Health Urgent Walk-In Clinic in Lanham is available for anyone ages 4 and older. It is open Monday-Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm for non-life threatening behavioral health needs. No appointment is necessary. Authors Joy Hudson is the clinical director of Behavioral Health at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.
- Women's Health, News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAward Coincides with the 30th Anniversary of Clatanoff Pavilion, Home to LHAAMC’s Renowned Maternity CareLuminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) is thrilled to announce its recognition as a 2025 High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report. This prestigious designation highlights LHAAMC’s commitment to providing exceptional care for expectant parents and their growing families.This achievement is especially meaningful as 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Clatanoff Pavilion, which has been a cornerstone of maternity care at LHAAMC since its opening in 1995. Over the past three decades, the Thomas J. Frank Family Birth Center has been a trusted space where more than 145,000 babies have been born, making it a cherished part of the community.“As we prepare to celebrate 30 years of the Clatanoff Pavilion’s legacy, this recognition is a true testament to our commitment to excellence in maternity care,” said Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “Each year, our physicians, nurse midwives, nurses, nurse practitioners, technologists, and the entire team welcome more than 5,500 babies each year – the equivalent of a kindergarten class every day. We are honored to be a trusted partner in life’s most joyful moments.”U.S. News evaluated 817 hospitals from across the United States for its latest ratings. Only half these hospitals earned recognition as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. Hospitals were evaluated on objective measures on quality, including:C-section delivery rates.Severe unexpected newborn complication rates.Exclusive breast milk feeding rates.Whether each hospital met new federal criteria for “birthing-friendly” practices.Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities.This accolade underscores Luminis Health’s bold quality goal for Vision 2030 to eliminate maternal and infant mortality. To address this important issue, LHAAMC perinatal units have implemented evidence-based maternal safety protocols, implicit bias education and training, as well as culturally customized care strategies to reduce disparities and improve outcomes.“We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition,” said Dr. Monica Jones, Chair of Luminis Health Women’s and Children’s Services. “This award not only reflects our team’s commitment to exceptional quality patient-centered care, while advancing birth equity for all that seek our services. Together, we are building a healthier future for all families.”This announcement comes on the heels of LHAAMC being named a 2024-2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospital and recognized as a high performing hospital in eight specialties for common procedures, including cardiac care, cancer services, and orthopedics. These accolades underscore LHAAMC’s standing as a leader in delivering exceptional, comprehensive care to the community it serves.
- CommunityGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAfter almost three weeks of late-night mischief, does your elf need a night off? Maybe it’s the rainy weather, too many cookies or all the back-and-forth trips to the North Pole. Whatever the reason, every elf deserves a little rest, and we’ve got just the thing: a printable sick note. Whether your elf has come down with “North Pole Sniffles” or is recovering from an "oops" moment, like a tumble off the Christmas tree, this note lets them relax guilt-free. Want to make your elf’s sick day extra special? Here are some creative ideas: Create a cozy tissue bed for your elf to rest on. Set up a “recovery station” with mini marshmallow “medicine” and a candy cane “thermometer.” Add a small blanket, a teacup-sized hot cocoa, or even a tiny book for them to “read” while they recuperate. At Luminis Health, we’re all about keeping the magic alive for families while helping you navigate the busy holiday season. Download your printable sick note below and let your holiday helper get the rest they deserve—after all, being naughty can be exhausting! Download the Elf Sick Note. P.S. If you or your family are feeling under the weather this winter, Luminis Health is here for you. Visit LuminisHealth.org to learn more about our primary care, emergency services, and virtual healthcare option, CareConnectNow.
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