EXERCISE FOR A BETTER IMMUNE SYSTEM?

Recent studies show that moderate, regular exercise strengthens the immune system. During moderate exercise, protective cells circulate through the body more quickly to fight off bacteria and viruses. To help your immune system:

- Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week

- Strive for good nutrition and an appropriate amount of sleep

- Learn how to manage stress

- Avoid rapid weight loss which can weaken the immune system

- Wash your hands with soap frequently

- Avoid over training - too much exercise can weaken the immune system. More than 90 minutes of high intensity endurance exercise increases risk of illness for up to 72 hours. During long bouts of high intensity exercise, be sure to get enough sleep and eat a well-balanced diet to decrease risk.

-Rest and avoid intense exercise if you have fever, muscle aches, exhaustion, or swollen glands. Your body needs the energy to fight off the illness.
Source: Plus One Fitness

DO YOU KNOW A STRESSED OUT DAD? GIVE HIM A GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR MASSAGE AND AN EASY RELAXING MEDITATION CD FOR FATHER'S DAY (SUN. JUNE 21ST)!

PROTECT YOURSELF IF A RETAILER GOES BANKRUPT

With many businesses filing for bankruptcy, it's wise to take precautions. Here's how:

When buying:

• Use a credit card, especially when leaving a deposit. If the business fails without providing your merchandise, you can dispute the charge with the card issuer. You might also be protected if there is a problem with the quality of goods for which you have already been billed. You generally have less recourse if you paid with cash, a check, or a debit card.
• Spend gift cards. Use cards and certificates as soon as you can, even if there's no reason to suspect the retailer is having financial difficulties.

After a bankruptcy:

• Verify warranty coverage. Ask the store (or the provider of a third-party warranty) whether you are still covered.
• File any claim with the manufacturer or retailer. If a retailer fails, you still might be able to make a warranty claim with the manufacturer. If the manufacturer goes bankrupt, you may have similar rights with the retailer. Consult the Federal Trade Commission website for more information at www.ftc.gov.
• File with the bankruptcy court. Consumers are usually near the end of the list of creditors and won't recover much during bankruptcy proceedings. But some consumers, including gift card holders, might be able to move ahead by applying as priority creditors. Check online for the name of the court where the company filed for bankruptcy. If the company simply disappeared, ask your local consumer protection agency for advice.

Source: Consumer Reports

PREVENTING PAINFUL CONDITIONS

With the milder weather, many of us are increasing our outdoors activities such as walking, running, and tennis. Listed below are some common injuries. If you experience any symptoms, please see your medical professional immediately -- these conditions heal much more quickly if treated early.


1. Plantar Fasciitis - The band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes becomes inflamed producing pain in the heel and along the bottom of the foot

2. Achilles Tendinitis - Pain, tightness, and swelling in the muscles connecting the legs to the feet

3. Shin Splints - Tiny tears in the front lower leg muscles

4. Stress Fractures - Small bone breaks in the feet due to overuse

5. Illiotibial Band Syndrome - Inflammation in the outer thigh

6. Hamstring Injuries - Strains and tears in the muscles in the back of the thighs

7. Knee Pain and Swelling - May be caused by injuries to the cartilage, muscles, and ligaments

8. Toe and Toe Nail Issues - Swelling or discoloration may signal infection or the need for new footwear


Many of these problems can be prevented by starting with low level activity, slowly increasing exercise intensity, stretching and strengthening muscles, warm-up and cool-down, good footwear, and cross training. Adequate hydration, nutrition, and recovery time are essential. Therapeutic massage can prevent injury, eliminate pain, facilitate healing.

Source: Advance for Physical Therapists


DO YOU KNOW A MOM WHO NEEDS A RELAXATION BREAK? GIFT CERTIFICATES AND CDs ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR MOTHER'S DAY
(SUN. MAY 10th) !