Worship - Sundays 9:00am
Building B Sanctuary
Health Corner
Meet Kathy Williams
Health Ministry Coordinator
Blood Pressure Checks
You are invited to take advantage of our free blood pressure readings every 2nd Sunday of the month after worship.
Understanding your Blood Pressure
Blood pressure monitoring is one of the most common vital signs. What do these numbers really mean?
The top number or “systolic”, measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats. If
your number is elevated it means, blood in exerting more pressure against the artery wall when your
heart contacts.
The bottom number or “diastolic”, measures the pressure in your blood vessels between heart beats or
the “resting phase” of your heart.
What is a “normal” blood pressure? There are many opinions on this, however, most doctors say 120/80
or less, is considered optimal. The higher the numbers, the more your heart is working. The more the
heart works, the more you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke.
Please note: blood pressure fluctuates with stress and activity. One high blood pressure does not mean
hypertension. It is the trend you set that matters. Regular blood pressure monitoring is very important
if you have a family history of hypertension, heart disease or stroke. Frequent headaches, blurred vision,
dizziness and ringing in the ears may be a sign of high blood pressure.
What can I do to promote optimal heart health? Here are a few tips:
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Diet can play a very important role. Sodium in prepackaged foods and as a regular seasoning can increase the blood pressure. Remember: where sodium goes, fluid follows, which can increase the volume in the blood vessels.
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Proper rest is critcal for regeneration
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Daily exercise is a key component. Walking and an active life style strengthens your heart muscle and helps with fluid retention in your extremities.
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Regular checkups with your doctor are very important.
Next month: we will discuss the different treatments and medication trends when controlling blood pressure.
(uhc.com, CDC.gov, Heart.org)
Flu Shots
It is that time of year once again, flu season is upon us. The new vaccine is now available to all of us. The policy for Walgreens has changed for doing “on site” flu shot clinics, they now charge a substantial fee. Due to this new policy, I will be unable to arrange a flu shot clinic for CELC. I do encourage everyone however, to visit with your doctor and consider getting your flu shot. Walgreens, CVS, Safeway and many other sites are available across the valley. Call and make your appointment today!
AEDs Installed at CELC
Two AED's have been installed at CELC. AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. An AED can be a life saving device if someone is experiencing a Sudden Cardiac Arrest. It is a medical device that can analyze the heart's rhythm and if necessary can deliver an electrical shock (defibrillation) to re-establish an effective heart rhythm.
Locations
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Building A - Fellowship Hall
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Building B - Sanctuary - Wall in front of sound booth
The Mysteries of Sunscreen
Why do we use sunscreen?
The skin Cancer Foundation (skincancer.org) cites that sunscreen will decrease your risk of skin cancers and precancers. Regular and daily use of SPF (skin protection factor) 15 can reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and lower melanoma risk by 50%.
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone! Everyday!
What type of screens are available and which one should we choose?
Always choose a Broad-Spectrum SPF 15 or higher. An SPF of 30 or higher should be the minimum for a day outdoors. Please note that in extreme climates such as the valley, an SPF 30 is the minimum.
There are two main types of sun screen:
Mineral or also known as physical, contains 100 % mineral actives such as: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of the two. They absorb 95% of the sun’s UV rays and reflects back the rest. Chemical sun screens are synthetic or organic and absorb the sun’s UV rays. These are quite effective; however, many contain oxybenzone that can often times cause irritation to the skin.
The bottom Line:
There are many choices out there; creams, lotions and powders. All have good qualities but must be applied properly. Read labels carefully and follow the recommendaons on the packaging. Reapply every two hours for proper protection. Usually, one ounce will be adequate for your entire body to give proper protection.
An annual “Head to Toe” check up with your Doctor or trained Dermatologist is recommended.
Don’t fear the sun…. enjoy your time in the sun with friends and family but do it responsibly. Don’t forget your sunglasses!
Sources: Skin Cancer Foundation (skincancer.org)
AZ Family KPHO TV Phoenix
Thebrightside.com
Hydration Tips
Just a friendly reminder; we are approaching the hot months of the year here in Phoenix. Most all of us are in a constant state of dehydration which can cause multiple health issues. Water is a mainstay for our bodies to function and cool properly. Please treat your body well and Drink…. Drink…. Drink…. your water!
FYI
How much water should I drink during the summer?
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For men, about 15.5 cups (125 ounces)
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For women, about 11.5 cups (91 ounces)
Tips for optimum hydration
Now you know how much water you need to drink for optimum hydration. But how do you hit the mark without falling short? Here are some quick tips to ensure you’re getting your ounces in:
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Drink about 8 ounces of water upon waking and before bedtime. (Did you know your body loses water while you sleep?)
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Throughout the day, drink water to maintain a healthy balance. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to start guzzling down your ounces. Were you aware that by the time you start to feel thirsty, you could have lost two or three cups of your total body water composition? Wow!
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Coffee and tea provide a significant amount of hydration, despite their diuretic effect due to caffeine content.
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Infuse water with slices of fruit, vegetables, or herbs for a refreshing and tasty boost.
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Use a favorite water bottle. This is a fun way to show off yourpersonality and enjoy every sip.
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Don’t substitute alcohol for water. It is a diuretic that will cause you to become dehydrated. (And, no, the ice doesn’t count!)
Here are some factors to consider:
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Activity level—The general rule is if you break a sweat, be sure to replace what you lost. The key is to drink water before, during, and after your workout.
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Climate—If you live in a hot and humid climate, you’re most likely to sweat more, which will cause you to dehydrate more quickly than in cooler places. And were you aware that being in a higher altitude—like in the mountains—can cause you to dehydrate? That goes for flying on an airplane, too. Be sure to keep plenty of water on hand wherever you may be.
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Overall health—While it is important to stay hydrated every day, it becomes even more critical when you’re sick. Fevers, vomiting, and diarrhea can cause severe dehydration—as do bladder infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Increasing your fluid intake is an important part of a successful recovery.
Hand Sanitizer vs Soap&Water
Over the past 3 years, since COVID, we have been exposed to “hand sanitizer” everywhere. Sales of this product grew by 73% in just a few weeks.
What is hand sanitizer?
1% emollients, colors, fragrances and hydrogel
40% water (part of the hydrogel)
60% alcohol
Although this product is very convenient when we are out and about and not near a sink, regular use can break down our skin and cause extreme dryness and irritation. Alcohol in this product breaks down the outer coatings of bacteria and viruses promoting quick disinfection. It also dries out the surface of our skin removing natural oils that keep our skin healthy. There are non-alcohol formulas on the market, however, the CDC states that these are not as effective for fighting “novel coronavirus”. (cen.acs.org)
Soap and Water
Mild soap and water are proven to be far more effective in removing common illness causing germs. Studies show that hand sanitizers work well at removing bacteria and viruses in the clinical setting where hands are not heavily soiled. In the community setting where food and equipment are handled, soap and water are preferred for proper cleansing. Soap combined with running water loosens germs of all types from the skin’s surface so they can be thoroughly washed away. Lathering with a mild soap produces friction and will lift and wash away dirt and debris. It is recommended that you lather for 20 seconds and rinse with warm water.
Whichever method you choose on a consistent basis should be followed with hand cream or lotion 1-2x per day to replenish moisture. (ucihealth.org)
Home Safe Home Program
The Goodyear Fire Department offers FREE in-home safety check visits for residents’ age 60+. Trained Fire Department representatives will do a room-by-room assessment and check for any unsafe conditions.
To make a Home SAFE Home Safety Check appointment, contact the Goodyear Fire Department using one of the following methods:
Home Safe Home dedicated phone line - 623-882-7233
Email homesafehome@gooodyearaz.gov
Home SAFE Home – Your Life Matters Safety Checks include
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Customized home escape plan
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List of supplies for your emergency go kit
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One free carbon monoxide alarm
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Smoke Alarm assessment
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Suggestions about how to stay safe from fires and falls
*The Goodyear Fire Department representatives are not able to assist with alarms that are located in an area where it is not accessible due to height. We are also unable to replace or assist with alarms that are hard wired. It is the resident’s responsibility to have the smoke alarm installed or battery replaced.