The Top 18 Blog Posts of 2018
2018 has been one for the books! We’re looking back on a great year of welcoming Timothy Pehrson as INTEGRIS CEO, adding a new hospital campus to the INTEGRIS family and all of the achievements in between.
To wrap up the year, we’ve compiled the 18 most popular On Your Health blog posts of 2018. From hot flashes and nut butter to firework injuries and colonoscopy stories, our readers wanted information on the latest health trends and we were more than happy to oblige.
18. The Health Benefits of Superfoods
Superfoods are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants necessary to live a healthy lifestyle. But what are superfoods and why are they so super? We talked to INTEGRIS dietitian Meagan Ballard to find out how to incorporate superfoods into your diet and why they’re so beneficial for health.
17. Areas of the Body Most Injured by Fireworks
Fireworks are great fun on Independence Day and New Year’s Eve, but when used improperly, they can be dangerous. Dr. Christopher Lentz, director of the INTEGRIS Burn Center, shed light on the most common injuries he sees caused by fireworks and how to take the proper precautions.
16. What is Macro Tracking and Does it Work?
Tracking macronutrients can help you maintain a proper caloric intake for losing weight and reaching your goals. We took a deep dive to learn how to properly count your macros and discovered why it can help you shed those pesky pounds.
15. Fitness Opportunities for Oklahoma City Seniors
Staying active as you age has so many benefits for your overall wellness. Oklahoma City offers many opportunities for seniors to get out and get moving. We rounded up some of our favorite senior fitness classes and provided tips for healthy aging.
Suffer from hot flashes? Researchers aren’t exactly sure what causes these sudden sensations of heat, but we do know they’re a nuisance. We talked to INTEGRIS OB-GYN Dr. L. Wayne Houk on ways to make your hot flashes less of a hassle and what home remedies just won’t do the trick.
13. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy has never been more popular and is touted as a more natural solution to balancing the effects of menopause in women. INTEGRIS OB-GYN Dr. Julie Hensen discussed the difference between standard and bioidentical hormone replacement therapies and whether this trendy procedure is actually safe.
12. A Summary of Changes to Alcohol Laws in Oklahoma
In the fall of 2018, Oklahoma’s laws concerning alcohol officially changed for the first time in decades. Whether or not you supported the state question, now that stronger wine and beer are more readily available for purchase, we thought it was important to educate you on the changes that may affect how you consume them.
11. The Surprising Health Risks of Oklahoma Lakes
Oklahoma is home to more than 200 lakes, and you may be surprised by the health risks they can pose. From infection-causing bacteria to toxic algae blooms, we examined what may be lurking in Oklahoma lakes and how you and your family can stay safe when taking a dip.
10. How to Start a Running Program
Starting a running program or making the decision to run a 5K can be overwhelming. We created a nifty “90 Days to 5K” training calendar that’ll have you ready for the finish line in no time.
9. The Pros and Cons of Intermittent Fasting
While it might seem that everyone is talking about intermittent fasting, you may be wondering if it’s the right choice for you. We chewed on some information about the time-restricted eating trend with the help of INTEGRIS dietitian Brent Wilson.
8. An INTEGRIS Physician Discusses Safe, Nonsurgical Anti-Aging Treatments
If you open a magazine, read a blog or log into your social media, undoubtedly you've seen the ads: smooth this, firm that, tone this and take these supplements for younger-looking skin. Dr. Scott Shadfar, a dual board-certified otolaryngologist and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, explains which options are safe and effective.
7. What is Bulletproof Coffee?
Bulletproof coffee was on trend this year, so we decided to lean what exactly makes this coffee “bulletproof.” INTEGRIS dietitian Meagan Ballard weighed in to discuss the health benefits of the frothy concoction.
6. Know Your Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac
Ivy, oak, sumac, oh my! The best way to avoid these itch-causing leaves is to recognize them when you see them. We put together a handy guide to help you identify poison ivy, oak and sumac while hitting the trails come spring.
5. Alternatives to Peanut Butter
When it comes to health benefits, peanut butter just can’t compete with the healthy ingredients found in other nut butters. Almonds, cashews, walnuts and even pistachios are packed with nutrients that can be enjoyed in the form of a tasty spread. Take a look at our guide to nut butter health benefits.
4. A First-Person Account of a Colonoscopy
Ever wondered what it’s like to get a colonoscopy? INTEGRIS Cancer Institute business development manager Kellye Elliott shared her firsthand account of going through the procedure so you can know what to expect when you need one.
3. Oklahoma’s Flu Season is Severe, Especially for Pregnant Women
The 2018 flu season was one of the worst in history, and with the 2019 season quickly approaching, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Find out what INTEGRIS OB-GYN Dr. Katie Shepherd had to say about the flu shot and its importance for pregnant women.
2. An Update From the INTEGRIS Employee Who Lost More than 100 Pounds
Last year, INTEGRIS social media specialist Sarah Johnston shared her experience of losing 100 pounds. In January, she provided us with an update on her post-weight loss journey and shared what her life looks like now.
1. What are Nightshades and How Can They Affect Your Gut?
Nightshades include tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, eggplants and more. While they may not sound scary, these troublesome foods can cause problems for your gut health. We took a look at nightshades and how they can cause leaky gut syndrome.
How many of the top 18 posts have you read? Check out the On Your Health blog to see other original health articles you might have missed from the doctors and experts at INTEGRIS. We wish you and yours a happy holiday and look forward to everything 2019 has in store!