healthy

Telehealth and how it’s helping patients manage their mental health, especially during the pandemic

| kristencastillo

It’s Mental Health Awareness month. During the pandemic, there’s been a growing demand for mental health services including telehealth — virtual appointments via technology including video, phones and apps. My Mediaplanet article explains the benefits of this high tech approach to mental health.

Here’s an excerpt:

“Even before the pandemic, getting access to good mental healthcare in a timely manner could be really challenging,” says Dr. Shore, noting patients can wait six to 12 weeks for their first appointment, making it tough for those who want help right away.

Factors impacting the ability to get an appointment can include if the provider has availability, if they’re accepting new patients, or if insurance covers the provider’s services.

Telemedicine may help reduce some patients’ barriers to care, including lack of transportation, convenience if they can’t take time off from work, or if they have family responsibilities.

Read the full article below:

How Telehealth Is Helping Patients Access Mental Health

“Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Jackie Goldschneider discusses her eating disorder and shares advice for others

| kristencastillo

“Eating disorders rob you of so much enjoyment and so much comfort and they really can kill you.” That’s the message from “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Jackie Goldschneider.

I interviewed her recently for this Mediaplanet article, in which she describes her decades-long eating disorder and recovery. Here’s an excerpt:

“It is not worth it. Eating disorders rob you of so much enjoyment and so much comfort and they really can kill you. It’s a shame to suffer for so long. I wish I had done this earlier.”

Jackie Goldschneider.

Read the full Q & A article below:

“Real Housewives of New Jersey” Star Jackie Goldschneider on Overcoming Her Eating Disorder

Samantha Harris and Jaclyn Smith on their respective breast cancer journeys

| kristencastillo

One in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. In my Mediaplanet article, celebrities Samantha Harris and Jaclyn Smith share their respective breast cancer journeys and offer tips to others with breast cancer. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth

“When you get breast cancer, it opens your eyes up to a lot, because you never think you’re going to hear those words, ‘cancer.’”

Jaclyn Smith
Samantha Harris and Jaclyn Smith Share What It’s Like to Receive a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

“Listening to your inner voice and your gut is such an important factor,” she said. “And being your own best healthcare advocate, because we know our bodies better than anyone else. We’re in them every day.”

Samantha Harris

Tips for getting better sleep

| kristencastillo

Tired of always being tired?

A third of Americans don’t get enough sleep, a problem that’s linked to chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, depression, and heart disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says adults need seven or more hours of sleep every night for their “best health and wellbeing.”

“Sleep is essential for life and it needs to be a priority.” 

Nancy H. Rothstein, the Sleep Ambassador

Get a good night’s sleep by following tips from Nancy H. Rothstein, aka “The Sleep Ambassador,” featured in my Mediaplanet article. https://www.futureofpersonalhealth.com/sleep-sensitivity/prioritizing-your-sleep-during-the-ongoing-pandemic/

Carrie Ann Inaba Shares Her Autoimmune Disease Journey During Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month

| kristencastillo

March is Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month and TV host and dancer Carrie Ann Inaba is talking about her chronic pain from autoimmune diseases.

In my Mediaplanet article, she shares how she manages the pain and how she’s helping others through her platform Carrie Ann Conversations.

Carrie Ann Inaba on Managing the Pain of Autoimmune Conditions

Here’s an article excerpt:

“Pain is a powerful teacher,” said Inaba, who wants to be a resource for people living with pain and autoimmune disorders. She recommends taking notes at each medical appointment since the appointments can be stressful and distracting. She also encourages communicating your pain to your doctors, and if a doctor isn’t helping you, to seek another opinion. 

“You can’t give up,” she said. “Life with or without pain is a gift and I’m grateful for it all.”

Guilt-Free Holiday Treats

| kristencastillo

Indulge your sweet tooth this Christmas season without the guilt. My Creators Syndicate article has recipes for healthier holiday desserts.

Thanks Wholesome Yum,  Heather Barrett and the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission.

Here’s an excerpt:

Healthified sweets are the ticket to indulging your sweet tooth without the guilt this holiday season. Whether you serve them after a holiday dinner or nibble on them as a yummy snack, these recipes look great, taste great and can be made without a lot of fuss.

Food Swaps: Cooking Substitutions

| kristencastillo

Even the best cooks sometimes run out of ingredients or simply want to replace an item in a recipe. Luckily there are many tasty alternative ingredients.

avocado-713094_1920

Did you know avocado makes a great substitution for mayo and butter? My Creators Syndicate article breaks down these substitutions and more food swaps, like cooking with prunes, beans and Greek yogurt.

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Most of these substitutions are healthy. Plus they’re practical – some of these items may already be in your pantry or refrigerator which saves you a trip to the grocery store.

What’s your favorite food substitution?