Emergency and urgent care medicine both serve an important purpose in health care, but what exactly does each facility do and how should you decide which one to use for medical problems?
Choosing the right primary care physician (PCP) is a crucial step in managing your health care journey and living a healthier life. A PCP acts as your main health advocate, coordinating care, managing chronic conditions and offering preventive services tailored to your needs.
If you or someone you know is going through physical, recreational, occupational or speech therapy, you probably already know how challenging it can be. But did you know that joining a support group can make a world of difference?
Reaching the age of 40 is a significant milestone that often comes with a greater focus on health maintenance and prevention. As part of Healthy Aging Month in September, in this blog we talk to Jeffrey Cruzan, M.D., a board-certified family medicine physician with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Memorial West, about the medical screenings to keep in mind as we get older.
There's a growing trend on YouTube of misinformation about sleep medicine, including tips and advice on improving sleep disorders. In this blog we visit with Viral Doshi, M.D., a sleep medicine specialist with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, to examine how watching these videos for information can harm your sleep health.
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance in August to highlight the importance of vaccines for people of all ages and how they help to prevent and protect us from serious, sometimes deadly, diseases and illness.
Sadness is a common but unpleasant emotion – it’s one of the six basic emotions alongside fear, happiness, anger, surprise and disgust. Sadness is also inherently viewed as negative, but as science has indicated, it’s not always a bad thing. Take music, for example – the brain is actually capable of receiving pleasure from sounds and lyrics that focus on sadness.
Paul Allegra, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Central, warns that “shoulder pain can be secondary to a multitude of factors, including multidirectional instability, rotator cuff tendinitis, subacromial impingement or rotator cuff tears.” He says if symptoms persist, you should seek treatment from a medical professional.
You can glean valuable information simply by looking at someone’s face. Whether it’s facial expressions to indicate happiness or sadness or changes in skin color and texture to indicate illness, the face can offer insights into how you’re feeling.
There isn’t a cure for chronic pain, so many times, patients will turn to medications for chronic pain relief, such as over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids. But more conservative treatments such as physical therapy can help without being tied to as many side effects as medications – long-term NSAID use can cause gastrointestinal problems and prescription painkillers have addictive properties.
The decision on when to get knee replacement surgery is a topic many Americans struggle with. In 2020, Northwestern Medicine published a study that found 90 percent of people waited too long to fix their knee with joint replacement surgery, and 25 percent of people who had it done did so prematurely.
Smartwatches have become increasingly popular for their health-tracking features. But they can also cause skin irritations and rashes for some people. These skin issues, known as contact dermatitis, are a common issue associated with wearing smartwatches. Learn more about contact dermatitis and how to alleviate irritated skin.
We spoke with Paul Allegra, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with INTEGRIS Health in Edmond, about how to recognize a concussion and what next steps to take.
RSV is a common viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, lungs and breathing passages. RSV comes from the Paramyxoviridae family, a group that also includes the mumps and measles. The virus can replicate anywhere in the respiratory tract, mainly the breathing tubes and lungs. This replication then causes swelling and inflammation that makes you sneeze, cough or have trouble breathing.
You’ll visit your primary care doctor for most medical needs, including wellness visits and routine preventive screenings, non-emergency illnesses like colds and sore throats. This is the person to whom you can comfortably ask questions about your health or voice concerns. We speak with Nathaniel Yokell, M.D., a physician at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Yukon, about the importance of maintaining a relationship with a primary care provider.
Skin is the body's largest organ, and serves as a protective barrier. While various factors influence skin health, nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining its vitality, resilience and overall well-being.
Breakfast: it’s the most important meal of the day! Right? This popular platitude has been echoed time and time again, but what kind of scientific support is there to back it up? Breakfast helps many people kick start their day with energy, but some morning meals can do more harm than good.
An affirmation workout takes two healthy practices – exercise and positive self-talk - and brings them into one powerful package: the affirmation workout. You can use affirmations before, during and after a workout – or all three. Choose one or two affirmations that speak to you – don’t try to remember more than a few.
This eating philosophy is also sometimes referred to as the energy density approach. It’s all about evaluating foods based on nutrition, calorie density and fiber content. Foods with a lower calorie density contain fewer calories per gram than high-calorie-density foods. Fiber content is something to pay attention to because fiber keeps you feeling full.
Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for overall well-being. The health of our gastrointestinal system, often referred to as the gut, plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function. If you're looking to improve your gut health, there are simple lifestyle changes you can incorporate into your daily routine.
When you hear the term 'clean beauty,' you might wonder what it's all about. Is it just another fancy phrase in the world of skincare and cosmetics? We dive into this topic to understand what clean beauty means and why it's important for you and the planet.
There are changes to make when shopping to make adding more protein into your diet easier. Whether it’s revamped products that feature more protein or existing products that are healthier alternatives, consider these swaps the next time you’re at the store.
Collagen is a health supplement that can help you have healthier hair, glowing skin and fewer wrinkles. It is associated with all of the above and has very few known risks. We share some ways collagen can help enhance your life.
The most common desk job injuries include back pain, carpal tunnel and arm pain, headaches, shoulder and neck pain, hip and leg pain. We detail several different ways that you can help prevent desk pain in the future.
Did you know that managing stress and anxiety is a big factor when it comes to keeping the body in good health? When we live stressful lives or are constantly feeling the effects of anxiety, we may start to neglect our health without realizing it. People with optimistic outlooks on life have been shown to have a lower risk of heart attack and stroke, so tending to your mental health could be just as beneficial as watching your cholesterol levels!
Have you ever heard of a cold plunge? The idea of willingly jumping into chilly waters might seem strange, but there's much more to it than meets the eye. We explore the science behind these icy adventures and discover the amazing ways they can boost your well-being.
In some cases, fatigue can be an indicator of an underlying medical problem, but most of the time, fatigue can be correlated with habits we either need to break or adopt. Too much exercise or physical exertion can lead to fatigue, as can boredom, poor sleep, emotional stress and poor eating habits. We share different foods to eat and avoid to help fight fatigue.
Olive oil is delicious. You can drizzle it on bread, cook with it, make marinades and dressings, add it to any recipe calling for oil or butter, cook eggs in it…we even found a recipe for an olive oil martini. According to the American Heart Association, extra virgin olive oil is the top choice for health benefits, but regular olive oil is a good second choice. We share a dozen reasons to choose this oil for cooking and eating.
The same stress you deal with when completing daily tasks can also affect your body in ways you never realized. We’ll highlight some common areas that stress can directly or indirectly impact, as well as how stress can affect your immune system.
Boost your health with laughter! It's a free, fun, and easy way to cope with challenges, enhance relationships, and promote physical and emotional well-being.
We all love our fur babies for their companionship and cuteness, but did you know that they may be beneficial for your health as well? Studies show that keeping a pet can work wonders on keeping your stress levels under control and can have a positive impact on your physical health as well.
Summer in Oklahoma is hot and it’s all too easy to become dehydrated. It’s simple enough to reverse mild, or even moderate dehydration by increasing fluid intake and making sure to drink enough liquids and eat enough hydrating foods daily. We share symptoms of dehydration and tips to stay hydrated in hot weather.
In today's fast-paced world, getting a restful night's sleep can sometimes feel like an elusive dream. Tossing and turning, staring at the ceiling and feeling exhausted the next day are all too common for many individuals. In this blog, we explore five natural sleep aids that can help you achieve a better quality of sleep.
We delve into the whey protein vs. plant-based protein showdown, exploring their benefits, differences and which option might be the right fit for you.
Whether you view rest as a political movement, scarce commodity, or something you rarely think about, one thing is probably true: you could use a little more of it and more than one type of it. Rest and sleep are two entirely different things. Sleep is one form of rest (physical) but there are six more!
Some people’s tummies gurgle in the morning or after a meal. Others growl when it’s time to eat. You may have a specific rumble or burble to let you know it’s almost time to skip to the loo. For the most part, the symphony of sounds within our digestive system is nothing to worry about – just part of the business of being human.
The summer season is filled with warm weather, days by the pool and increased sun exposure. Protecting your skin while enjoying time outdoors will allow you to enjoy the sun while also keeping your skin healthy.
Finding a diet that works best for your body can involve trial and error, but once you find a diet that does work well for your body and your lifestyle, staying in peak physical health becomes much easier. We explain what a low-carb diet entails, who it might be good for and who it might not work well for.
Cherries contain melatonin, plus nice amounts of magnesium and vitamins A and C. Tart cherries also contain a little bit of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin and melatonin.
Maybe you’re approaching a milestone anniversary and as you take stock of your beautiful relationship and flip back through old pictures, you notice something. Ten or fifteen somethings parked right around your middle. And you’re not the only one. Your sweetie looks a little less svelte than when you met. How did this happen? Can it be reversed?
Whether you’re sober curious or just taking a more mindful approach to your relationship with alcohol, dealcoholized wine is an option you might want to check out. A wide variety of dealcoholized wines of every style is available online and in stores. This blog will dive into what dealcoholized wine is and what you should know about it.
Mindful yoga, also known as mindfulness-based yoga, is a practice that combines the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the mindfulness techniques of meditation. The practice involves focusing on the present moment and becoming aware of one's thoughts, feelings and sensations without judgment.
Guess what? Coffee with olive oil in it is a trend right now. Why combine coffee and olive oil? Because they’re two very healthy foods. We explain what you should know about adding olive oil to your coffee.
The last thing you want to experience when enjoying your favorite food is to experience mild allergic-type reactions hours later – itching, flushed skin, brain fog, sneezing or headaches. For some people, though, these symptoms can occur as part of a food sensitivity.
Shrink your waist size to boost health. Reducing abdominal fat can lower risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Discover more about the impact of waist weight.
While some people are born with these conditions, there are many lifestyle and behavioral risk factors that can increase your risk of developing kidney disease.
Many types of seaweed, such as kelp, are edible and have been referred to as superfoods of the ocean due to their beneficial nutrients. This blog will help educate you on kelp and teach you how to add it to the foods you cook at home.
Eating clean is eating well. Until it isn’t. Almost any healthy habit can become unhealthy when taken to an extreme, and clean eating is no exception. Orthorexia nervosa is the term for being focused on clean eating in an unhealthy way.
While cough headaches are uncommon, they can still pose problems and even be a sign of more severe health conditions. This blog will explain what cough headaches are, how to spot them and how you can treat them.
We are not suggesting that your thoughts need to be positive all the time, nor is that a healthy goal to set. This is about managing negative thoughts when they become disruptive, intrusive or otherwise get out of hand. We aren’t necessarily interested in flipping them from gloom and doom to sunshine and roses, but we are interested in aiming for a more neutral or realistic perspective.
Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common diseases Americans live with. The latest figures show about 11 percent of the population has type 2 diabetes and an additional 96 million American adults have prediabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. While there isn’t a magic food to prevent diabetes, eating the right combination of healthy carbohydrates, fats and proteins can help you in the long run.
Diet and exercise are terrific tools for managing chronic inflammation. While you may not be able to prevent chronic inflammation through diet and exercise alone, you can certainly choose foods that inhibit your body’s inflammatory response. You can also make inflammation worse by eating certain foods.
Coping with change – even change you really want or know is a good thing – is hard. Change you don’t want – losing a job, going through a divorce or experiencing the effects of a serious illness, for example – can be even harder to deal with. The good news is that in either case, the mechanics of change (and our reactions to those mechanics) follow the same pattern, so we’ve put together handy dandy guide to understanding and weathering changes large and small.
Urinary tract infections are common among women, so common that many think they can treat them at home and go about their day. But are at-home treatments enough or do antibiotics provide the best remedy? This blog will explore why it’s important to treat UTIs early, which bacteria causes UTIs and which antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an infection.
You know the drill. There’s something on your mind and you can’t quite shake it. Maybe it’s the middle of the night and you’re thinking about your grocery list or mentally planning a work project. Maybe it feels like you’re watching a video clip on a loop that you can’t turn off, imagining something going horribly wrong. Are you worried? Anxious? Both? The difference between worry and anxiety can be challenging to parse, but once you can tell them apart, they’re easier to deal with.
The word depressant may be the last thing you’d think of when describing a glass of wine you’re having with dinner or a pint of beer you’re drinking with friends. That’s mainly because people associate alcohol with social settings and its ability to make you feel good. The truth is, alcohol is actually a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. We will explain why alcohol falls under this category and how it can impact your physical and mental health.
Meat sweats is an unofficial phrase used to describe excessive perspiration when eating large quantities of any high-protein food – not just meat. Most often, meat sweats describe fatty foods such as steaks or barbecued meats.
Regular exercise brings with it many benefits, but with them can come muscle soreness. When we try a new exercise, work out a little harder than usual or restart a workout routine after a bit of time off, our muscles will ache. Here’s a roundup of reasons for soreness, home treatments and remedies.
There is a longstanding myth that this fatigue, drowsiness and overall lethargy can only be the culprit of one thing – the turkey. For years, tryptophan, an amino acid in turkey, garnered headlines in the media for making you sleepy. However, there is another more plausible explanation that helps give context to this common occurrence around the holidays.
Feelings and physical sensations that come with true (physical) hunger are low energy, an empty-feeling stomach and even fatigue. The longer it’s been since you last ate, the more noticeable the sensations will be.
Major depressive disorder affects 17 percent of people in America. Because so many adults, children and pregnant women will experience depression during their lifetime, it’s important to have screenings available for earlier diagnosis. This blog will highlight some of the more common screenings that can help you stay on top of your mental health.
Colds and flu (and COVID) flourish in cooler weather, not because they prefer lower temps, but because they are spread via droplets in the air, which is much more easily done when people are closer to one another indoors.
Instead of turning to eggs and other processed meats for protein sources at breakfast, some consumers have ventured into the world of high-protein cereals as an alternative. This blog will explore this growing market and expand on the possible health benefits.
The presence of a fever, sore throat, persistent cough and body aches are what most people think of when attempting to decipher if they have COVID-19 or not. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, are usually an afterthought. If you find yourself on the toilet, instead of assuming it’s due to food poisoning or a stomach bug, should COVID cross your mind? This blog will dive deeper into the relationship between the coronavirus and diarrhea.
As the cooler months are approaching, your chances of getting sick increase. Luckily, there are several different ways you can support your immune system to get ahead of fall and winter time sicknesses. We share 5 ways you can boost your immune system.
As much as you’d like it to be the case, what you look like and how you feel at 20 years old certainly won’t be the same as when you’re 70 years old. From the day you’re born, your body undergoes a series of complex changes that eventually peak. From there, a slow process known as aging begins. From your physical appearance to how well your brain, heart and lungs function, these inevitable changes will ultimately affect each person at some point in their life.
The non-alcoholic beer movement is well underway. Sure, you’ve probably noticed six-packs labeled “non-alcoholic” out of the corner of your eyes at stores for the past few decades. As the taste has drastically improved, one question remains – is non-alcoholic beer healthier and better for you? We sought out some answers.
As we enter the fall and winter months, there are lots of things to look forward to: Sweater weather, holidays, football, chilly mornings and cozy evenings. It’s also a great time to revamp your diet according to the season. Soups and hearty stews, while not very appealing during Oklahoma summers, are perfect for cooler temps. Done right, they can be warming, tasty and packed full of nutrients.
While some bacteria are harmful, it’s easy to forget your body is full of good bacteria that helps carry out several important functions. Maintaining a balance between good and bad bacteria is key, and eating foods with prebiotics and probiotics is one way to achieve this.
High cholesterol levels can cause plaque build-ups that increase your risk of heart attack, heart disease and stroke. This blog will explain how eating fewer animal products can keep your cholesterol levels at bay.
Whether it’s to jump-start the morning or wind down the night with friends, Americans love their coffee. Consumption of the caffeine-fueled drink has reached a two-decade high, with two-thirds of people consuming coffee each day, according to the National Coffee Association.
You may not think twice about the skin cream you rub on your face, the eyeliner you apply before work or the shampoo you lather up in your hair. These products, which seem relatively safe in theory, typically contain dozens of ingredients that are difficult to pronounce and even harder to spell. But just what are these chemicals, some of which can be considered toxins, and what do they mean for your health? We compiled a list of some of the most common ingredients and which products you can find them in.
For many people, the alarm clock signals the start of a stressful morning – you’re tired, cranky and don’t want to get up. Instead of staying glued to your phone for 30 minutes scrolling through Facebook, here is a morning routine guide you can follow to boost your productivity and provide stress relief each day.
There are a lot of foods perceived as “healthy” that are packed with hidden calories and sugar. Despite your best efforts in choosing healthier snacks, many choices might be sabotaging your health and your weight.
Being obese comes with a long list of health risk factors that include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, lung disease and 13 types of cancer. For decades, these effects have been well known. Researchers have discovered a new link between obesity and brain function.
Technology has improved our lives in many ways. But like anything in life, too much can sometimes lead to harm. Have you ever thought about trying a digital detox to give your mind and body a rest? It can be just as beneficial as eating your daily vegetables.
While supplementing your sleep here and there with a small amount of melatonin is unlikely to result in any negative consequences, just how much is too much when it comes to heavier doses? This blog will explore melatonin’s safety and outline symptoms to be aware of.
The world is full of anxiety-producing situations and scenarios like paying monthly bills on time, meeting deadlines at work or experiencing a fulfilling social life. We share tips to help deal with anxiety in the moment. As a bonus, many of these techniques also can help improve overall mental health.
Happiness, like so many other things, must be cultivated and actively pursued. Here are eleven ways to up your happy factor. Try a couple and see how you feel.
While we can’t help you reduce your coffee/caffeine intake, we can definitely help you learn how to reuse and recycle your coffee grounds. We share how to store your used coffee grounds and 13 creative uses for them.
Believe it or not, dietitians often rely on non-culinary images such as tennis balls and hockey pucks for portion control references. Once you master those, you’ll soon have more than a "sporting" chance of perfecting portion control.
We provide tips on what to include in your bowls and explain why colorful fruits and vegetables matter. We will also provide you with three easy buddha bowl recipes to make at home.
For people who have food allergies or are simply trying to eat healthier, it can be difficult to come up with a grocery list that is affordable and fulfilling. Instead of overspending on a pint of non-dairy ice cream, we rounded up several recipes to try at home that take just a few minutes to prepare.
It’s long been known that exercise is good for both body and mind, and that certain types of exercise are extra good for calming the mind. There’s a growing body of evidence suggesting kayaking is a double-paddled superstar when it comes to de-stressing. We share what you need to know.
As the coronavirus has continued to infect people around the world, patients have been surprised to notice clumps of hair falling from their scalp months after coming down with COVID. This development has led many people to wonder if COVID can cause hair loss. The answer is yes, although the more pressing topic is if people should be concerned about the long-term impact of these hair changes.
What exactly constitutes a healthy energy drink, and are these products even good for you? This blog will examine what you need to know about these natural options.
A stomach bug and food poisoning are both gastrointestinal illnesses share similar symptoms, it can be hard to tell the difference. Knowing which infection you have can help provide guidance on how long your symptoms will last and how to go about managing your illness.
Swimming is an amazing cardio workout, it’s known for its calming, meditative effects and it’s a remarkably efficient way to burn calories. Since water supports about 90 percent of your body weight when you’re swimming, it’s often possible to continue to exercise while recovering from an ankle sprain or other injury. Did you know, though, that there are lots of other ways to exercise in water?
While you may not think twice about walking and talking at the same time, the brain is hard at work calculating every move to help regulate thoughts, feelings and emotions. At the core of every emotion are brain chemicals that affect your happiness. We analyze these happy chemicals, provide you with tips on how to stimulate them and offer dietary suggestions to help maximize their production.
How often do you think about petroleum jelly? It’s very useful. It’s an effective moisturizer and works by serving as a physical barrier on the surface of the skin, trapping moisture. There are many uses for purified petroleum jelly. We share what you should know.
Play, a natural part of childhood, is just as important for adults as it is for kids. But you know as well as we do, in the hurly-burly swirl of everyday life it can be all too easy to become so focused on getting things done that we forget to lighten up, loosen up and play.
Physical activity, whether mellow or intense, is a proven mood booster. It can help us maintain a healthy weight, keep our blood pressure in check, reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, reduce stress and strengthen muscles and bones. Regular exercise is possibly quite a boost for cognitive function, now and in the future.
Oklahoma is one of the more diverse states in the country due to its wide-ranging topography – some areas of the state are flat with scenic prairies while others are mountainous and full of canyons, forests and mesas. In between, Oklahoma is home to many rivers and lakes.
Bones aren’t static. They’re changing all the time, breaking down old bone and making new, healthy bone. When we’re younger, new bone grows fast. It outpaces the breaking down of old bone, resulting in increased bone mass. We explain how to keep your bones strong and why it's important.
Is maple syrup superior to table sugar? We sought out the answer to those questions by diving into more detail about how sugar affects your body and analyzing the potential health benefits maple syrup has over other options.
Despite being the second most common cancer in men, prostate cancer carries a 99 percent five-year survival rate. While these numbers are favorable, prostate cancer can still be deadly when men ignore potential warning signs that indicate a more advanced form of cancer. Understanding these signs and symptoms, along with what to do with this information, can potentially save your life.
Have you ever lost your appetite before a big presentation or event? Our emotional brains and our physical bodies communicate constantly and what happens to one certainly affects the other. It's called the gut-brain connection, and it’s very real. We explain what you should know.
The next time you walk past a mirror, take a second to stop and look at yourself – what you see in the reflection is your body image. These thoughts and feelings can either be positive or negative. We will detail the four aspects of body image, how societal norms affect body image and highlight tips on how to keep a positive body image.
In some cases, moles can turn into a dangerous form of skin cancer called melanoma. But how do you know what is normal and what is concerning? This blog will help you determine when to call a dermatologist to get your mole looked at.
Certain foods can make IBS symptoms worse. Choosing what to eat can be a chore, so we put together a comprehensive guide on tips for dealing with IBS, what to eat, what not to eat and some recipes for you to try at home.
We explore common causes of frequent urination, how certain medications increase your trips to the bathroom and what you can do to limit frequent urination at night.
Bloating, specifically the abdominal variety, affects as much as 30 percent of the population. What can cause bloating and distention? Many things. We share 13 common culprits.
When someone you know has a stroke, it can be hard to know how to support them. If you are a caregiver, you have to take care of yourself in order to care for someone else. Maintaining your own good physical and mental health is crucial. You’re going to need endurance and a positive attitude, and that means you’ve got to take good care of yourself. We share some ways to do that.
It’s easy to have fun in the summer; it can be equally easy for things to go awry and for people to get hurt. Let’s avoid summer maladies and injuries. With just a little bit of forethought, you can add a nice thick layer of safety to the season.
Your self-talk is shaped by your beliefs, experiences and the situations of your daily life. It can be positive, neutral or negative. We share the different types of negative self-talk and tips to help turn it around.
Enjoying warmer weather and the gorgeous scenery of spring without the annoyance of itchy, spring allergies is not out of reach. We have several tips to help you manage springtime allergies and reduce your sneezing and itchiness.
Gastroesophageal reflux is the most common gastrointestinal issue adults deal with on a daily basis. It can be a nuisance to live with – especially if it becomes a chronic condition – but a few simple dietary changes can go a long way in limiting symptoms.
Baking soda has long been marketed as a multi-use substance, great for tasks around the house and for easing ailments of various sorts. Its superpower is that, because it’s an alkaline, when it’s mixed with an acid, it changes the pH level. We explain what to know about baking soda and how it can benefit you and your household.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, beets are pretty special. They’re one of very few deep red-purple vegetables or fruits, and that beautiful color brings with it a more unique subset of antioxidants and nutrients than is found in produce of other colors.
Whenever you’re sick, the sinuses become obstructed with mucus. This blockage causes congestion and can lead to intense pressure and headaches. While there are nasal sprays and medications to treat symptoms, some simple massage techniques at home can provide you with relief.
When combined with unhealthy eating habits, hemophilia can become difficult to live with. While there isn’t an official diet to follow for people with hemophilia, there are some general healthy habits that may help. We share what food groups to stay away from and food groups to embrace if you’re living with hemophilia.
If you aren’t already an organ donor, consider becoming one. It may seem grim to dwell on what will happen to your body after you die, but choosing to donate your organs and tissue is a selfless and worthwhile decision that could save someone’s life. We share more about organ transplants and how to register as a donor.
The next time you sit down for a meal, think of the complex process that occurs for you to savor and enjoy your food. It’s common to associate your taste buds with flavor, but your sense of smell is actually what contributes the most to how you experience food – it is believed some people can smell anywhere between 10,000 and 100 billion types of odors.
By making a few easy lifestyle changes, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing cancer or improve your chances of beating the disease if you are diagnosed. The recommendations outlined here also lower your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and other serious ailments, boosting your odds of living a long, healthy life.
Burns are categorized by their degree of severity. Health care professionals determine the degree of a burn based on how deep the injury goes. The recommended treatment depends on the cause and severity, though all burns should be kept clean and bandaged. Learn more about the three classifications of burns and how to treat each one.
A wellness trend based on this concept has sprung up in the past couple of years. It’s called facial yoga, a combination of massage therapy, acupressure, exercise and relaxation. This free, non-toxic, non-invasive technique stimulates muscles, tightens skin and eases tension.
Magnesium helps keep our heartbeat steady and our bones strong. It supports a healthy immune system and aids the function in our nerves and muscles. It helps us make protein and regulate blood sugar. It’s absorbed in the gut and excreted through the kidneys.
Bedtime was normal, you fell asleep pretty quickly but now. Now you’re wide awake. Most of us do wake up several times a night, but we just roll over and go back to sleep, as a normal part of our sleep cycle. It’s only a problem if you cannot go back to sleep.
Sometimes joint pain is just an annoyance, one that comes and goes. But in more severe cases joint pain or stiffness can be disruptive and can hinder your ability to accomplish daily tasks, even those as simple as climbing a flight of stairs or getting a good night’s sleep.
As the emphasis on home cooking continues into 2022, people are getting more creative in the kitchen. We share a list of 12 health food trends to keep an eye out for.
What do you really know about caffeine? Maybe it’s simply that your mornings are a little brighter after your cup of coffee or that caffeine in the afternoon keeps you up at night. We break down what you should know.
On a scale of one to ten, what would you give your happiness level today? Nobody feels like a ray of sunshine all day every day, nor is that a realistic goal, but it is quite possible to make your days a bit brighter. All it takes is the right tips and tricks, and a commitment to use them!
INTEGRIS Health @ Home is a brand-new service that brings the level of care, equipment, services and medical experts of a hospital to you right in your home. It’s no secret that most of us would rather be cared for in the comfort of our own homes. Many illnesses and injuries make a hospital stay necessary, but now, under certain situations, hospital-level care can come to you.
If you’re looking to add more protein to your diet, don’t count vegetables out. There’s a common misconception that the only way to boost protein is by eating more meat. Plenty of vegetables pack a protein punch.
The American Heart Association has developed a group of seven factors we can evaluate and work on improving, if need be, to minimize our risk of heart disease. This list has been dubbed “Life’s Simple 7.”
People who enjoy regular exercise feel better, sleep better, tend to eat better, have decreased incidence of diseases like type 2 diabetes and some cancers and they maintain better mobility as they age. And it doesn’t take as much as you may think.
A healthy heart is the foundation for a healthy life. No matter your risk factors, there are steps you can take now to reduce your risk of developing heart disease or improve your heart health if you already suffer from heart disease.
Bedtime snacks are one of life’s little pleasures, something to look forward to. Savvy snackers also know that a bedtime snack is an opportunity to boost their nutrition, further their dietary goals and help ensure a better night’s sleep. Poor bedtime snack choices can thwart comfortable sleep, cause you to wake during the night, undermine a day’s healthy meals and even exacerbate conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
Any changes to your thyroid, known as thyroid malfunction, can create a litany of medical problems. One notable disease, called Graves’ disease, is responsible for a majority of overactive thyroid cases. We’ll dive deeper into what exactly causes Graves’ disease, which symptoms occur because of it and how it can be treated.
Many people are curious about the health benefits of sunflower seeds and if they are good for you. To help you on your food journey, we set out to learn more about these seeds.
There’s a common misconception that sugar is only present in foods known for being sweet – sugary drinks, desserts and candy. Yes, these are the obvious culprits. But what about the ketchup you dunk your fries in, the dressing you generously drizzle on your salad or the bread you use for sandwiches?
Decision fatigue or cognitive overload can add up over time. It might look or feel like tiredness, irritability, a feeling of being overwhelmed, poor concentration or fatigue. We explain what you need to know about decision fatigue and share tips to help manage it.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused a disruption in the lives of many Americans. With less of a focus on certain aspects of life, simple things such as your own physical health have suffered. As a way to get your health back on track in 2022, we are highlighting the importance of preventive health and why you should prioritize your well being by visiting a primary care physician in the new year.
We discuss how walking can improve various aspects of your mental and physical health and how many steps per day you should take to experience benefits.
Between the stress of COVID-19 and disruptions in people’s social life, many are wondering why they feel constantly tired, have zero energy and are always fatigued. The answer to these problems isn’t always as simple as you had hoped for, although patients always want concrete answers. To suffice these answers, there is a theory these symptoms of lethargy may be tied to something called adrenal fatigue.
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system that plays an important role in your health. We’ll explain what the lymphatic system does, which organs play a role in its function and how to get it moving.
Plant compounds called flavonoids are the latest trendy topic believed to have heart-healthy benefits. We will discuss what flavonoids are, which foods you can find them in and how they may impact blood pressure.
Roadblocks in your blood vessels make it tough for blood to pass through, particularly when that blood is traveling relatively far, making its way to the parts of your body that are the greatest distance from your heart ― your hands, fingers, feet and toes. When cells don’t have the oxygen they need, they can’t function well.
Due to the rise in popularity of sports drinks and flavored waters, many people associate replenishing electrolytes after physical fitness and activity. But electrolytes are more than that. Yes, they’re important for optimal hydration, but they also play a key role in body function.
Between processed foods, snacks, pasta, potatoes and heavy side dishes, carbohydrates make up nearly half of American diets. These foods may taste good, but they aren’t as good for your health and waistline. Instead of outright removing these snacks and treats from your diets, there are many low-carb alternatives on the market to help appease your cravings without feeling guilty.
With Americans spending 90 percent of their time indoors, coupled with an increased focus on respiratory health due to COVID-19, air purifiers and air purification systems have become increasingly popular. These filtration systems have many names and use various technologies. But, are they worth the price and can they alleviate any health risks?
You may not be able to see them, but germs are everywhere. They can be in the air you breathe, the dirt you walk on, the water you drink and the surfaces you touch. We highlight the importance of infection prevention and how to help eliminate the spread of harmful germs.
Burnout plays out in stages as demands and work stressors pile on. Knowing about each stage can help you recognize signs of burnout before it becomes problematic. We’ll help you identify these symptoms and provide tips for how to recover and learn to love your job again.
You may not realize it, but when it comes to caring for COVID-19 patients, respiratory therapists handle much of the day-to-day care, alongside nurses, doctors and other staff. We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce you to a few of our dedicated, compassionate respiratory therapists, ask them how they are doing and celebrate them for everything they do.
Poor sleep, or not enough sleep, affects a slew of our bodies’ key systems, health and functions, from cognitive abilities to coronary heart disease, diabetes and even a shorter life expectancy. Poor sleep is associated with a generally poorer quality of life.
It’s beloved by the Paleo and Keto diet sets and touted by many for health benefits ranging from better skin and hair to weight loss. Coconut oil has been trending for years, and enthusiasts credit it for all sorts of health and nutritional benefits.
The state of our mental health affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others. Good mental health is not the same as no acute mental illness, just like good physical health is not the same as no illness or injury at this moment. Maintaining your mental health, like maintaining your physical health, requires a consistent routine and good health-hygiene habits.
Aging brings about many changes. Your metabolism slows down, aches and pains become more commonplace and your mind may not be as sharp as it once was. With several areas of life working against you, it may be easy to let your food awareness slip and focus less on nutrition.
If you’ve never heard of plant-based jerky or if you’re looking for vegan-friendly snacks, we’re here to offer insight on this new food trend and provide plant-based jerky recipes for you to try at home.
Most of us know someone with substance use disorder. Many of us even know someone who has lost a friend or family member to it. It’s a disease that affects people from all walks of life and of all ages.
A well-balanced meal can keep you fueled for as long as four hours, so another pro tip is to eat every four hours or so, to keep a steady flow of energy. What foods give you energy? We share 17 foods that will help keep you fueled.
Premature aging can happen as a result of common lifestyle factors and behaviors, all of which can be corrected or altered. We’ll explain how premature aging can affect you and discuss some simple tips on how you can avoid it.
Frailty makes daily life more difficult, uncomfortable and dangerous. Frailty syndrome is a diagnosis defined by age-related decreases in normal/daily function. It sounds a little vague, but what it comes down to is loss of muscle, stamina, endurance, general fitness and sometimes weight.
Learn how you can incorporate more healthy foods into your child’s diet. We discuss how to talk to your child about nutrition, go over which nutrients your child needs to grow and share easy recipes you can try at home.
Most people don’t want to think about how their life will end, but the topic should be one that everyone considers. If you become unable to speak for yourself due to a terminal illness or traumatic event, who will decide what happens to you?
Personal training can provide you with a customized workout plan, nutrition guidance and one-on-one support from a certified professional. So, how can you determine if online personal training is right for you, and where should you look for an online personal trainer?
The idea behind intuitive eating is this: eat what you want, as much as you want, whenever you want. No foods are restricted or off limits. According to its adherents, food becomes something to enjoy, not something to constantly measure, regulate and evaluate.
If eating green vegetables is good for you, then ingesting a condensed form of the substance that makes your greens green must be really good for you, right? Let's find out.
Have you always viewed exercise as a means to lose weight or get in shape? Many people work out for just the physical benefits. However, people often find themselves losing the motivation to exercise when their mental health is suffering. If you’ve ever skipped a workout when you’re feeling sad or anxious, you could actually be missing an opportunity to turn your mood around.
You may be hearing news reports about algae blooms in area lakes or other bodies of water. That sounds ominous, but is it? Can an algae bloom make water unsafe to drink or swim in? Is this something normal?
What’s the worst that could happen if you avoid the doctor’s office? Better yet, why do you even need a doctor if you’re not sick? The answer: many benign health problems can easily become an issue without proper oversight. We’re here to explore exactly what happens when you neglect your health and why you should prioritize regular checkups.
Does missing your second dose really make a difference? In short, yes. To help further this point, we addressed several common topics and questions people have about the importance of not skipping your second COVID-19 vaccine.
Imagine waking up one day and not being able to see the world, hear its sounds or feel what you touch. This would be life-altering, right? You may not put smell or taste in that same category, but together, they make up 40 percent of your sensory input.
The flexitarian diet is one of the more recent trendy diets to pick up interest, largely in part due to a movement toward plant-based foods compared to the traditional meat options. How does the flexitarian diet work?
Fermented foods are starting to make a comeback due to their health benefits and eco-friendly nature. We share how you can make your own fermented foods at home, and reap their many benefits.
Being injured, and working through the recovery process, can be exhausting, frightening and frustrating. It can also trigger feelings of isolation, depression, anger, fear, sadness and shame. Feeling out of control or numb are also possible. Recovering mentally can be equally, or more, difficult than recovering physically but the two go hand in hand.
Inflammation is a word we hear a lot in health and wellness circles. It’s something we’re encouraged to reduce or avoid. It’s bad news. But what is it? We break it down and share what foods to look for and avoid to help reduce inflammation.
Many of us are exposed to blue light for many of our waking hours. But does it damage our eyes, and should we wear blue light blocking glasses? We explain what you should know about blue light and tips to help keep your eyes protected from becoming dry, irritated or strained.
Air fryers claim to offer the same taste, texture and golden brown crisp of fried foods but with a fraction of the fat and calories. While the capabilities of an air fryer sound convenient and delicious, are they healthy? We explain the benefits and share easy recipes to try.
One in five Americans is affected by mental illness. While common, it can sometimes be difficult to spot in loved ones. To mark Mental Health Awareness Month, we highlight the signs and symptoms of depression, what to look for in your loved ones and the steps you can take to help if a loved one is depressed.
There are a few parts of your routine that should remain consistent during most situations. Let’s think of them as a framework onto which we can add other things. A good routine is one you can stick with. The more diligent you are about your routine, the more power it will have to calm and center you. We explain the benefits of having a routine and how to get into a new routine post-COVID.
We love the sunny skies and longer, fun-filled days of summer. Swimming, exercising more and spending time hiking and camping just come more naturally when the weather is warmer and there are more hours of daylight. All that sun and fun can do a number on our skin, though. Let’s talk about sunburn, heat rash and bug bites.
Parenting styles and a parent’s mental health impacts their children. As part of Children's Mental Health Week, we discuss how a parent can pass down mental health disorders to children and which behavioral and emotional patterns can have a lasting impact on childhood development.
With the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic weighing on people over the last year, it’s more important than ever to advocate for mental health resources and daily routines that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Nearly 80 percent of high school kids have tried alcohol. While it may not feel like it, parents have a significant influence on their children’s decisions. Kids who grow up with a supportive and nurturing parent relationship tend to make better decisions. The way you talk about alcohol with your kids will change over time. We share a few tips for adapting your messaging to their developmental stages.
It’s one thing to read a recipe online and rely on photos and text to guide you through the steps. It’s an entirely different experience when you can visualize how to make a dish through a recorded video or hands-on virtual class. We’ll walk you through the different types of virtual cooking classes, what you can expect and the options to choose from online.
The cooking oils section in your local grocery store seemingly grows by the day. How do you know which oils are healthy or the best to cook with? We’re here to help you understand it all.
Every second your lungs are hard at work. They perform 24/7 behind the scenes to ensure your body receives the oxygen it needs to survive. That translates to about 12 to 15 breaths per minute, or 17,000 breaths per day, according to the American Lung Association. Put simply, your lungs never clock out. Considering their importance, it’s easy to see why you should practice healthy habits to keep your lungs performing at an optimal level.
Peer pressure doesn’t go away. What does go away are many of the excuses you could make as a teen or young adult. As an actual adult, there are fewer excuses, so what do you do? We share tips on dealing with adult peer pressure.
As a way to promote awareness for colorectal cancer in March, we’ve covered some of the recent changes in preventive screening, outlined what you need to know if you fall in an at-risk category for colorectal cancer and touched on the importance of scheduling a colonoscopy.
Is it safe to enjoy spring break during COVID-19? Many colleges and universities are cancelling spring break entirely, in hopes of lessening outbreaks. We break down the CDC guidelines on how to enjoy a safe spring break this year.
Mindful eating is the idea that is that a slower, more thoughtful way of eating may help us to enjoy our food more, choose more healthful foods and make us less likely to overeat. We explain the differences between mindful eating and dieting.
Some people are early risers by nature. Your natural predisposition, whether toward sleeping in and staying up late, or rising and going to bed early, is called your chronotype. We explain four ways to help you become more of a morning person.
While there are benefits of medical marijuana, it’s important to understand the long-term effects of chronic marijuana use. Jedidiah Perdue, M.D., medical director at Arcadia Trails INTEGRIS Center for Addiction Recovery, offers his expertise and shares what you should know about how marijuana impacts the body and mind over time.
To help keep you and your family safe this winter, David B. Parker, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, provides information and insight into common orthopedic injuries during the colder months some tips on how to stay safe.
The makers of collagen supplements and creams happily tout the amazing results their products promise us: plump, dewy, youthful skin, strong, smooth nails and hair and even healthier, stronger bones and joints. Can it be true, though? We’ll break down the basics of collagen.
With the start of a new year, you may be thinking about cleaning up your diet and making healthier lifestyle choices. There are so many different diet lifestyles to try, it can be overwhelming and confusing to figure out what dietary needs are right for you. We explain common diets to help you understand what might work for you.
It can be hard to take the slow and steady approach to build a healthy lifestyle when we're surrounded by advertisements for crash diets and 30-day fixes promising fast results. How much physical activity do you actually need? We're breaking down everything you need to know to establish healthy habits and a consistent activity level for the long term.
A certain amount of hair loss is normal. Most of us lose 50 to 100 hairs each day, with new hairs taking their place quickly enough that we overlook the ones we've shed. The problems start when new hair doesn't replace the hair that has fallen out. We explain potential causes and provide tips to help combat hair loss.
While most of us understand the basic bodily functions that keep us going, you might not be aware of some of the more incredible functions your body carries out. We’ve gathered up seven facts about the human body and some of its crazier processes that might just blow your mind.
Donating blood is a critical piece of the American health care system. Since January is Blood Donor Month, we partnered with Oklahoma Blood Institute and spoke with Chief Medical Officer Tuan Le, M.D., to find out why donating blood and convalescent plasma is so important during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sweat is a natural, necessary part of being a human being. Staying naturally dry may seem advantageous, but not sweating enough can actually be more dangerous than sweating too much. Of course it’s perfectly normal to sweat a little or a lot. We share everything you need to know.
Apple cider vinegar is a low-cost ingredient that's said to restore your body's pH balance. Is it worth the hype? We'll walk you through what apple cider vinegar is, how it works within the body and a few popular home remedies you might have seen making the rounds online.
Between membership fees, childcare, crowded workout areas and drive time, gyms are not for everyone. The good news is, you don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment to stay healthy and fit. In fact, you can get an incredible full-body workout with a set of dumbbells, or even just your body weight.
Weighted blankets have become popular in the mainstream in the last few years and are just what they sound like: heavy blankets, generally 15 pounds or more. The weight comes from pellets, chains, or balls that are either woven into the blanket's fabric or inserted in little pockets throughout. Advertising claims all sorts of benefits: better sleep, less anxiety, sweatless nights, excellent naps.
Dry skin is common in the winter, as temperatures drop and the whipping winds zap moisture from your skin. We explain why your skin becomes so dry, provide you with tips to treat your skin and give you guidance on how to deal with more severe conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
There are many types of vaccines, and keeping up with them can be a tedious process for some. That’s why we created a comprehensive guide, including expert advice from Vibitha Mani, M.D., a pediatrician at INTEGRIS Family Care Council Crossing, to walk you through when and which vaccinations your child should receive.
As the popularity spikes, the question has come up if sparkling water can be bad for you. We decided to delve into that topic and provide you with the truth about sparkling water. Along the way, we busted some myths and rounded up some tips so you can continue to enjoy the bubbles.
