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Health & Wellness

HEALTHY LOCAL PRODUCE IN LAKE COUNTY THIS SEASON

3/1/2021

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While other growing areas are still recovering from harsh winters, Central Florida’s spring harvest features a virtual salad bowl of healthy crops. Many of these locally grown items are  considered among the healthiest foods because of their beneficial nutrients known to help prevent many serious ailments including heart disease, diabetes and obesity, as well as cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease.  

Here’s a quick glance at some of the locally grown fresh produce available this season and the best local spots to purchase them, plus a simple recipe to jump-start healthy eating during National Nutrition Month.  
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LOCAL SPRING HARVEST

​Sweet Corn 
Zellwood’s famous corn is high in fiber and aids in digestion.  It provides valuable B vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, copper, iron and manganese, and it’s also a good source of antioxidants that promote eye health.
Blueberries
Lake County boasts several farms that grow this antioxidant superfood that can lower the risk of heart disease and cancer while improving brain function.  Harvesting is typically in April, just in time for the annual Mount Dora Blueberry Festival.  These low-calorie berries are an anti-inflammatory food packed with fiber, potassium and manganese, plus vitamins C and K.
Oranges, tangerines and grapefruits 
Florida citrus provides a healthy source of fiber, vitamin C, thiamine, folate, and antioxidants.  The health benefits associated with dietary fiber include improved digestive health, weight loss, and lowered cholesterol.
Mushrooms
Just south of Mount Dora, sits Monterey Mushroom Farm which is currently harvesting Portabella, Baby Bella and white varieties.  These fibrous fungi are low in calories, yet rich in selenium, copper, and all B vitamins. While mushrooms contain antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory protection, they may also help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Broccoli & Cauliflower
These similar vegetables are high in fiber and contain many of the same nutrients, but broccoli just has more of them.   Their high fiber aids in digestive health, while the range of antioxidants in these heart-healthy vegetables help prevent the type of cell damage that can lead to cancer.  Broccoli and cauliflower, packed with vitamins, are also sources of potassium, calcium, protein, and folate.
 Leafy Greens
In addition to being loaded with vitamins and minerals, leafy greens like kale, spinach and collard greens are high in fiber, but low in calories.  They also are packed with vitamins K, A and C, as well as antioxidants that reduce the risk of diseases caused by oxidative stress.  The numerous health benefits of including leafy greens in your daily diet include reduced risk of obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and mental decline.
Snap beans
Like leafy greens, these crisp legumes are also  a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folic acid and fiber.  Research shows that cooking green beans may increase their beneficial antioxidant content.
Eggplant
This low-calorie purple vegetable dishes up fiber, potassium, vitamins C and B-6, and antioxidants that support heart health.  Some of its antioxidants are also believed to reduce “bad” cholesterol, help prevent memory loss and be beneficial for eye health, among other health benefits.
“Fresh local produce is healthier for us because fruits and vegetables lose some of their nutritional value within just a few days of harvest,”  said Dr. Laura Varich, a Central Florida physician and Mount Dora resident who recently launched The Fresh Physician website, which focuses on improving health through plant-based, whole-food nutrition.  “Healthful leafy greens and broccoli are among the ones that suffer the most nutrient degradation, so it’s very beneficial to buy them grown locally.”  Varich’s comprehensive site offers research-driven information and consulting services to individuals seeking better health.
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WHERE TO BUY LOCAL PRODUCE

The Golden Triangle provides a range of locations to purchase fresh local fruits and vegetables.  The biggest venue is the weekly Lake County Farmers Market that happens every Thursday in Eustis at Lake County Fairgrounds.  Hometown Market, also in Eustis, also has some seasonal local produce and is open daily.   The weekly Renningers Farmers Market and Mount Dora Village Market are also regular sources of fresh local fruits and vegetables.  When the local blueberry season hits its stride next month, berry lovers can buy directly from the local farms or during the Mount Dora Blueberry Festival.  ​

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This light and refreshing salad recipe was created by Dr. Varch as a celebration of Central Florida's seasonal spring bounty.  You can find this recipe and others on the Fresh Physician website.

ORANGE AVOCADO SALAD

Mixed lettuces and greens (include kale and thinly sliced red cabbage)
Thinly sliced red onion or green onion
Orange, sectioned, with sections thickly sliced
Avocado, sliced
Sliced roasted almonds

Dressing:
•    2 tablespoons orange juice 
•    2 teaspoons orange zest 
•    1 tablespoon lemon juice
•    1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
•    1 1/2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
•    1/4 teaspoon salt
•    fresh ground black pepper
•    1/4 cup olive oil

Mix dressing ingredients. Toss desired amount with greens and onions. Top with orange pieces, sliced avocado, and sliced almonds.
Hint: Mix it up by adding any of your favorite healthy ingredients (some suggestions are baked tofu, sliced beets, hearts of palm).
For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Discover the area's online event calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.  ​
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COPING TIPS FOR PARENTS AND KIDS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

12/23/2020

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So far this year, coronavirus has altered almost every aspect of people’s lives — from work, to school and socializing. And that will likely include the holiday season as well, as the community continues to follow social distancing guidelines recommended by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to curb the spread of the virus. This is especially important if a loved one is at increased risk for complications from COVID-19. 

While the world continues to learn to adapt to life with coronavirus, the holidays are a special time for many families, and it can be hard when long-held traditions must change. As holiday planning begins, here are some ways to help the family cope with whatever the season brings. 

TALK TO THEM
Conversations with kids about the novel coronavirus — whether about the illness it causes, school or dorm closings, missed birthday parties or canceled summer plans — have probably already happened. However, try to remember that many kids look forward to the holidays all year, so although the child may have adapted to other changes, it could take them some time to accept that coronavirus will affect yet another tradition.  

BE HONEST
It can be hard to break the news that traveling to Grandma’s house this year, spending time with favorite cousins or visiting Santa at the mall won’t happen. But in these times of uncertainty, it’s more important than ever for children to know that they can trust their parents and loved ones to tell the truth. It’s OK to not have all the answers, but share the current information known openly and honestly, in a way they can understand.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE
Talk about the things the family can do for the holidays — and how everyone can feel gratitude for what they do have — even if it means it cannot be celebrated in the usual way. Let the children come up with some new ideas for holiday fun. And make a list of the family traditions to hold on to, such as cooking favorite meals, singing holiday songs, watching holiday movies or putting up decorations. 

GIVE THEM SPACE FOR THEIR FEELINGS
No matter their age, children may feel disappointed or angry when holiday plans change. Be empathetic — let them know that these feelings are normal, and that parents feel disappointed, too.  It’s OK if they want to sulk for a day or two as they process their feelings. 

TALK TO THEM AND BE PREPARED TO REPEAT YOURSELF
Some children, especially young ones, may ask the same questions over and over. This may be a way for them to understand what’s happening and process things that are difficult. 

BE AVAILABLE
Be there for the kids for any questions or concerns they might have about coronavirus and how to keep it from spreading.

GO VIRTUAL
For many of us, the holidays are the one time a year when we can count on seeing family and close friends.  Due to the current state of the virus, try moving the celebration to the virtual world. With a little help from technology, spend some time and have a meal with the entire family, even if everyone is not in the same room or eating the exact same meal.  It can still help the family feel connected — and it can be a fun way to share recipes.  

Of course, a virtual celebration isn’t limited to dinner. Take this time to connect with family or friends virtually by playing games, watching movies, or sharing other holiday traditions and celebrations. 

 “It is important to keep a close eye on your child’s behavior in order to identify symptoms of possible depression and/or anxiety during this time. Symptoms may include acting withdrawn or angry, losing interest in their usual activities, tearfulness, and even bed wetting in a fully potty-trained child just to name a few,” said AdventHealth Medical Group Pediatric Hospitalist, Jaclyn Urquiola Sorzano.  “Please consult with your pediatrician right away with any concerns to get them the help they may need.”

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Discover the area's online event calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.  
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WATERMAN E.R. TAKES STEPS TO KEEP PATIENTS SAFE DURING COVID-19

11/13/2020

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Many aspects of everyday life have slowed to a crawl since the pandemic, but medical emergencies isn’t one of them.  From broken bones and deep cuts to chest pains and other ailments, patients with non-COVID-19 related emergencies still need to come to the E.R.   That could cause anxiety for some E.R. patients and their family members, but Tavares local hospital, AdventHealth Waterman, has expanded its policies and procedures to ensure its E.R. patients are as safe as possible from COVID-19.   
Here are six steps that help make visits to the local E.R. safer.
Temperature Checks and Screening
Touchless temperature checks and screening questions are given to all patients upon entering the hospital.  A green sticker is placed on patients without a fever and any patients with a fever are immediately segregated to an area that is designated for potential COVID patients.  All medical staff and providers are also screened daily upon entering the hospital or any of their other care locations.
Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitation
An Environmental Services team works to ensure all rooms in the hospital have enhanced cleaning and sanitation prior to another patient entering.  The hospital also uses a “LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robot” that reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections caused by microorganisms.  In tests, the impressive robot destroyed the live Ebola virus in less than one minute.
Universal Mask Use
Masks are required for all patients, visitors and staff for the entire time that they are on campus. AdventHealth Waterman has enough masks to provide each patient, visitor or staff member with a mask that is within the standards and guidelines of AdventHealth.  If anyone’s mask is insufficient or they don’t have one, one will be provided to them. ​
Social Distancing
Social distancing is required when in the E.R.   The Waterman team has placed reminder signage throughout the E.R. and on its chairs.   Patients can clearly see that they must skip every other chair in the lobby to help protect themselves by maintaining a 6-foot distance from others per CDC guidelines.
​Visitor Restrictions
AdventHealth Waterman has a visitor policy in place that allows one visitor, per patient, per day. This limits the amount of outside exposure coming into the facility which helps increase the safety for all. If there is an end-of-life situation, the facility will work directly with the family so that they may see their loved one.
Segregation of COVID-19 Symptomatic Patients
COVID-19 patients that enter the emergency room are brought immediately to a different wing away from the other patients. When admitted into the hospital, these patients have their own designated floor that is separate from other patients, and only accessible to employees.
In addition to mitigating the spread of COVID-19, these steps also provide reassurance to patients arriving at the E.R. 
“Everyone at AdventHealth Waterman has gone above and beyond during this pandemic to make sure that patients and their families are safe in our care,” says AdventHealth Waterman Emergency Medicine physician, Dr. Timothy Cheslock.  “We want to make sure that everyone in the community continues to have access to the best care possible in these challenging times.”

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here.  ​​​​ For local things to do, click here and for the area's free mobile app, click here. ​​​​
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THINK PINK TIP:    3D MAMMOGRAMS SAVE LIVES

10/19/2020

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the ability to catch cancer early is what makes a mammogram such a powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer. In fact, it can detect breast cancer up to two years before a tumor can be felt through a self-exam or by a physician.  
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3D mammography allows radiologists to investigate and scroll through multiple levels of imaging to see if an area of concern is regular tissue or a possible tumor. The technology allows them to find small tumors that could be hiding in denser areas of the breast that previously would have been obscured.  

Finding a small tumor during a screening mammogram can feel like a tragedy to patients, but in reality, it can be a type of victory because the goal is discovering the tumor when it’s small. 
​Catching breast cancer early through a mammogram means:
·    Therapies, like breast conservation therapy, will be the most effective
·    Treatment can begin early, possibly before the cancer spreads
·    The patient will have the best possible chance at recovery
Patients may be concerned about COVID-19 safety at screenings, but the staff at imaging facilities like those at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares are focused on safety so patients can focus on their health.

"The improved technology in 3D mammography serves patients better than ever before, because early detection saves lives," says Patricia Geraghty, Radiologist at AdventHealth Waterman.   

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Local 3D mammograms can be scheduled by visiting www.ScheduleYourMammo.com   

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here.  ​​​​ For local things to do, click here and for the area's free mobile app, click here. ​​
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THE 7 BEST NATURAL SPRINGS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

9/11/2020

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ABOVE: A manatee observation deck at Blue Springs.
Nestled in Central Florida’s oaks and pines, scenic freshwater springs provide refreshing outdoor activities all year.  Whether you’re interested in dipping your toes in the water, enjoying nature or partaking in a kayaking adventure, here’s what you need to know about the top seven scenic springs in Central Florida:

KELLY PARK AT ROCK SPRINGS

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ABOVE: Tubing at Kelly Park (Photo from Orange County Parks)
Tubing, snorkeling, picnicking and lounging at the beach area are favorite activities at this Orange County park.  Although there are no  rentals of canoes or kayaks, guests can bring their own and use the  primitive launch ramp at neighboring Camp Joy.   The park’s hours are  8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer months and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter.   Admission is $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people and $5 per vehicle with 3 to 8 occupants.  Admission is $1 for walk-in. Call the park in advance to check the availability of the spring’s tubing and swimming waterway, along with its pavilion and playgrounds during COVID-19 safety protocols.   
Located at 400 E. Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL

BLUE SPRINGS

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ABOVE: Blue Springs (Mount Dora Buzz photo)
Known as a designated manatee refuge, this 2600-acre park has the largest spring on the St. Johns River. .  During manatee season (mid-November through March), the spring run is closed to all water activities. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the clear 73-degree water during the designated swimming season.  Picnic tables are available and fishing, canoeing and boating can be enjoyed on the  St. Johns River. A  self-guided tour inside the historic Thursby house, built in 1872, can also be experienced.  Guests that want to stay longer can reserve a campsite or cabin.  The park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to sundown.  Entry Fee: $6
Located at 2100 W. French Avenue., Orange City, FL 

ALEXANDER SPRINGS

This popular recreation area in the Ocala National Forest offers swimming and lounging by the refreshing spring pool, picnicking, a 1.1-mile hiking loop on the Timucuan Trail, plus kayak and canoe rentals that allow guests to get up close and personal to Florida wildlife. Entry fee is $6 per person on weekdays and $10 per person on weekends.
Located at 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL
RELATED:  Top 10 Walking Trails in Lake County 

WEKIVA SPRINGS STATE PARK

This 7,00-acre park provides miles of trails that range in different lengths to hike, bike and horseback ride or view the wildlife beneath the springs by snorkeling and swimming.  This park also contains the headwater  of the Wekiva River.  Camping is available onsite with water and electrical hook-up along with areas to lounge and picnic. Entry fee is $6 per vehicle.
Located at 1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka, FL 

silver springs

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ABOVE: Silver Springs glass bottom boat (photo from floridastateparks.org)
Guests can head out for a paddling adventure or float down the river on a glass bottom boat or head out on land to enjoy walking and biking the park’s scenic trails. This Marion County park dates back to the 1870’s and is home to the Silver River Museum.  It offers space for weddings, family gatherings and reunions. There is also a colony of non-native rhesus monkeys which were introduced to the park in 1938 by a tour boat operator to enhance his "Jungle Cruise" attraction. The entry fee is $8 per vehicle.
Located at 1425 NE 58th Ave. Ocala, FL

WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK

Besides “live mermaids,” visitors can explore caverns and caves or slide down four of the park’s water slides in the park’s Buccaneer Bay. Canoes and paddleboard rentals are available to explore the Weeki Wachee River.  Enjoy tree jumping, rope swinging or kayaking through nature. The entry fee is $13 for adults, $8 for kids ages 6 through 12 and free for kids 5 and under.                           
Located at 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 
RELATED:  Local Things to To

HOMOSASSA SPRINGS WILDLIFE STATE PARK

View wildlife and take the family to meet America’s oldest, 60-year-old hippo named, “Lu.” The park features a variety of other captive animals such as alligators, black bears, red wolf, key deer, flamingoes and whooping cranes that serve as ambassadors for their species, Experience the water by boat, tube or surfboard and adventure on land by shelling or mountain biking. The entry fee is Adults 13 and up $13, kids ages 6 through 12 are $5 and kids 5 and under are free.                                                                                                    Located at 4150 S. Suncoast Blvd. Homosassa, FL
Outdoor activities at the springs provide more than just fun in the great outdoors--they can also benefit people’s mental and physical health.  Florida’s bountiful sunshine can give boost to vitamin D levels which supports the immune system.

“Although the sun helps with vitamin D synthesis from UV light, there is great variability in its production from person to person.'' said Amy Reyes Arnaldy, MD, an Internal and Geriatric Medicine Physician at AdventHealth in Tavares who encourages people to have their Vitamin D level checked by their doctor.

Florida’s springs are very popular, so early arrival is the best way to ensure entrance into the park.  During COVID-10 safety precautions, visitors are encouraged to call in advance to confirm which part of the springs and what amenities are open.  

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here.  ​​​​ For local things to do, click here and for the area's free mobile app, click here. ​
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8 TIPS TO HELP KIDS TRANSITION SMOOTHLY TO SCHOOL

8/14/2020

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This year, returning to school looks and feels different. The usual mixed emotions about returning to school may be heightened with COVID-19 safety concerns.
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Health experts from AdventHealth provided Lake County families eight general tips to incorporate into their back-to-school plans and prepare for their child’s new environment.
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1) Participate in Safe Back-to-School Activities
Learn whether the school organizes virtual get-togethers, such as a back-to-school night, prior to the start of the new school year. Meeting their teacher(s), seeing their classroom and getting to know some of the other kids can go a long way to increase kids’ comfort level at school.  

2) Establish New Routines
Setting and maintaining routine is important to kids to help them feel more comfortable and know what they should expect on a daily basis. Make sure your child knows and understands any new expectations with the upcoming school schedule, including chores, homework, mask wearing, hand hygiene, wake-up and bedtimes and mealtimes. This structure will carry over into the school day and can help a child acclimate to the new routines.

3) Share the Excitement
'Talk up' the benefits of the school. This may mean focusing on how they can see classmates once again, play with others for recess, ride the bus to school like a “big kid” or how they can attend art or music class every week.

4) Acknowledge and Validate Their Emotions
It’s important to acknowledge everything a child is feeling, especially at the start of the school year since it can cause anxiety.  This level of emotional support should continue throughout the year to help head off many emerging issues.  Make conversations about their school day as an expected part of the family routine. Dinnertime is a great opportunity to ask about the best part of his or her day, along with the most challenging aspects. Finding out sooner rather than later that a child is experiencing challenges increases the chances to help him or her resolve them.

5) Help Them Face Challenges with Schoolwork
Remember that moving up to the next grade level often comes with increased difficulty of school assignments for students. Virtual courses may bring additional challenges without in-person peer-to-peer and child-to-teacher support.  Some kids welcome the new challenge, while others take a little more time to adjust. 

6) Organizing the Night Before
Help organize your child’s school supplies, lunch and homework before school starts.  Having their backpack, homework, mask (if required), packed lunch or lunch money, and shoes ready by the door leads to less stress at the start of a school day. 

7) Encourage Them to Get Involved
Seek out safe opportunities for them to get involved with activities your child enjoys. Organized or virtual activities such as sports, music groups and chess club help children associate positive memories with school while meeting new friends with the same interests.

8) Stay Rested and Healthy
Fuel your child’s body and brain with plenty of sleep on school nights and a nutritious breakfast, so they'll be ready for the day’s challenges. 

“Getting a healthy amount of sleep is an important factor in mood, attention span, and academic achievement. Good sleep hygiene is important. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule even on the weekends. Practice a bedtime routine,” said Stefoni Stratton, PA, an AdventHealth pediatric provider. “Get daily exercise to improve sleep. Maintain a cool, quiet, and dark sleep environment.”

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For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here.  ​​​​ For local things to do, click here and for the area's free mobile app, click here. ​
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SAFETY TIPS FOR JULY 4TH GATHERINGS

7/1/2020

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Independence Day is always a special time to enjoy outdoor gatherings with family, friends and fireworks.  In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19, many large public celebrations were postponed in Lake County, so more residents may choose to have barbecues at home or picnics with friends.  Here are some safety tips to keep everyone safe during the celebrations:

BEST FIREWORKS TIPS

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Each year, people end up in the emergency room with injuries from fireworks around the July Fourth holiday.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission promotes these safety tips for fireworks at home:

  • Only purchase fireworks that are legal in your area.
  • Don’t buy fireworks packaged in brown paper.  They  may have been intended for professional use and can pose a danger to consumers.  
  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them from metal or glass containers.  
  • Never relight or pick up any fireworks that do not light properly.  
  • Always have adult supervision.
  • Have a bucket of water or a garden hose ready.  
  • Light fireworks one at a time and move away quickly.   
  • Never point or throw fireworks at other people.  
  • Douse used fireworks with lots of water from a bucket or hose before discarding.  
  • Never allow young children to play with or light fireworks.  
  • Encourage small children to wave flags instead of sparklers.  A lit sparkler burns at about 1,200F which can cause third-degree burns, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
"If the burn is larger than a quarter, in a sensitive area, or blistering,  seek medical attention.  After room temperature water is used to clean off the area, a very clean dry dressing should be applied before seeking emergency medical care.,"  said said Floriano Putigna, DO, Emergency Medical Physician at AdventHealth Waterman. ​"No ointment should be applied if you will be seen quickly by a medical professional as this will make the initial exam more difficult."

FOOD SAFETY TIPS

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Outdoor dining is perfect for summer celebrations, but extra considerations should be taken for food safety.  Here are some important safety tips for barbecues and picnics:

  • Keep raw meat and seafood chilled and uncooked foods in a refrigerator or an insulated cooler packed with ice until ready to fire up the grill.   Keep the raw food away from cooked foods.
  • Foods left too long in the “danger zone” — between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit  — can make people sick, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), so keep foods cool until serving.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking or one hour if it’s hotter than 90 F outside.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure meat is cooked to the CDC’s minimum safe cooking temperatures:  145 F for fish, beef, lamb, veal and pork, 160 F for hamburgers and other ground beef, 165 F for poultry and precooked meats like hot dogs. 
  • Serve cooked food immediately or keep it warm (140 F) until serving time.  
  • Wash hands, utensils and grill. 
  • Discard marinades or sauces that have been in contact with raw meat or seafood.
  • Don’t use the same utensils and plates for raw meat and cooked meat.  
Staying safe in the sun is also important during summer festivities, so using and reapplying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 at least every two hours is important. 

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here.  ​​​​ For local things to do, click here.  For the area's entertainment calendar, click here.​
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6 EASY WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

6/7/2020

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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and cases increase in Lake County, there are simple ways to improve the health of your body and mind.  Help jump start your immune system with these five easy tips.

Exercise Daily
It is recommended to exercise at least 30 minutes every day to create a healthy immune system. Physical activity will help circulate and stimulate the body’s infection fighting molecules and lower the risk of illness.

2) Eat a Healthy Diet
The human body needs plenty of micronutrients to help maintain a strong immune system. Foods with vitamins C, E and B6 are excellent for giving the body the energy it needs to stay healthy. Examples of foods with these vitamins include, salmon, oranges, lemons, nuts, chicken, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and bananas.

 3) Take Vitamins and Probiotics
Vitamins and probiotics are an effective way to boost and improve the immune system. Taking supplements daily can help reduce the risk of infection and produce healthy bacteria that the gut needs. 

4) Get Seven to Eight hours of Sleep a Night
Seven to eight hours of sleep a night is recommended to keep the body well-rested and energized. Lack of sleep puts the body at a higher risk of getting sick.
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5) Stay Hydrated
Drinking water not only helps the body’s organs to function properly, but it also helps infection-fighting molecules to work properly as well. It is recommended to drink six to eight cups of water a day.
 
“In these uncertain times, take charge of your emotional well-being and enjoy life,” said Chuong Vu, MD, at AdventHealth Family & Internal Medicine in Tavares.  For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. ​​​​

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LAKE COUNTY RESIDENTS AMONG 25,000 AFFECTED BY COVIDE-19 TESTING DELAYS & RELIABILITY

5/18/2020

 
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ABOVE: Mount Dora Buzz file photo
A third-party lab created long delays in local COVID-19 testing which impacted more than 25,000 people throughout Central Florida.  AdventHealth terminated the lab's contract and expressed no confidence in the reliability of the tests. 
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AdventHealth uses nationally accredited, third-party labs across multiple states to process COVID-19 tests for communities.   One of the labs processing a large number of their tests for Lake, Flager and Volusia counties has been unable to fulfill its obligation, according to AdventHealth.  

 “We share in the disappointment and frustration this situation has created. We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience and uncertainty it has caused,” stated a press release issued by AdventHealth.  

The healthcare organization expressed that it’s working diligently to notify and accommodate people impacted.  Affected individuals will be notified by mail (and possibly phone) and fall into two categories:
Those whose samples were processed, and whose results provided by the lab 
  • Individuals who had unreliable positive results will require retesting
  • Individuals with unreliable negative results who are symptomatic need to seek care and may require retesting.
  • Individuals with unreliable negative results who are asymptomatic but request to be retested will be offered testing pending availability.   
Those whose samples are at the lab in question and are part of the backlog will not be tested.  Therefore no result will be available. 
  • These patients may require retesting if they are symptomatic.
  • AdventHealth directed the lab to destroy these samples in accordance with the law.  
If someone is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms they should seek care immediately.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here and download the area's free mobile app.  ​​​​
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HOW TO CALM FEARS OF A COVID-19 RESURGENCE

5/15/2020

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As the country gradually eases stay-at-home orders and prepares to reopen, it’s natural to feel anxious. The White House and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have released joint guidelines for Opening Up America Again, and many areas are starting to do just that.   

The phased opening guidelines are specifically designed to reduce the risk of a COVID-19 resurgence. Still, as eager as people are to get back to the gym or enjoy a favorite coffee shop, some may worry about a second surge and the possibility of having to stay home again. Here are some ways to manage any fears as the country begins to reopen. 

STAY INFORMED, BUT IN MODERATION
Gathering trustworthy information about the reopening of America can help you accurately determine your risk so you can take reasonable precautions. During the first two of the three stages, for example, you’ll want to continue sheltering in place if you’re elderly or have a serious underlying health condition, like: 
  • A compromised immune system due to chemotherapy or other causes 
  • Asthma or chronic lung disease 
  • Diabetes 
  • Liver disease  
  • Kidney disease treated with dialysis 
  • High blood pressure or serious heart conditions 
  • Obesity 
Still, know your personal limits for all the news coming at you. The CDC recommends taking breaks from watching, reading or listening to upsetting news. Watch out for social media, too, where opinions can sometimes blur facts. 

CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN TO EASE ANXIETY
While it may feel like a lot of things are out of your control right now, there’s a lot you can take charge of in your life help ease your anxiety, such as helping others, fixing things around the house, organizing your closet, baking bread or listening to music. 
Find more ideas in these posts: 
  • 5 Ways to Stay Grounded 
  • 7 Ways to Manage Stress 
  • As the Country Reopens, Manage Emotions and Expectations 
And don’t neglect your physical health, either. Self-care is as important as ever. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle through: 
  • Exercise 
  • Proper diet 
  • Sleep 
  • Staying in touch with family and friends 

CONTINUE SAFETY PRACTICES
The Opening Up America Again guidelines recommend that you continue these throughout all three phases: 
  • Avoid touching your face 
  • Practice 6 feet of social distancing, particularly in the first two phases of the plan to reopen.
  • Frequently disinfect high-touch items and surfaces 
  • Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow 
  • Strongly consider using a face covering when in public, especially when using mass transit 
  • Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer 
Note that some states, counties and towns may have stricter rules requiring you to cover your face with a cloth mask in public.  

Whether you’re shopping, at the park having a picnic or in an outdoor recreation area, you’ll need to stay at least 6 feet away from others.  Although social distancing may have taken some getting used to, it continues to be one of the best ways to slow the spread of the virus. 

CULTIVATE YOUR SENSE OF HOPE
While you’re venturing out more, consider keeping a journal to help ease your anxiety, such as a notebook to write down what you’re grateful for. Maybe it’s your health or the health of your loved ones. Or it could be as simple as being able to meet a friend in person for lunch, which is possible as early as phase one of the reopening plan. 
Seek Support if You Need It How are you handling the gradual lifting of the restrictions on daily life? You may have mixed emotions. Or, it may be hard to tell. The CDC suggests being on the lookout for common signs of distress.  
Contact your health care provider if you experience any these behaviors or feelings for several days in a row and they make daily life difficult: 
  • Changes in appetite, energy and activity levels 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Difficulty sleeping or nightmares  
  • Feeling angry or short-tempered 
  • Feelings of numbness, disbelief, anxiety or fear 
  • Increased use of unhealthy substances 
  • Physical reactions, such as headaches or skin rashes 
  • Worsening of chronic health problems 
 If you have a diagnosed mental health condition, like an anxiety disorder or major depression, be sure to continue with your treatment plan and monitor yourself for any new symptoms. Schedule an online or in-person office visit with your care provider if new symptoms develop.  

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here and download the area's free mobile app.  ​​​​
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