Health Tips for November 3

Health Tip: Insulin Shots

Many diabetics need to inject themselves with insulin to help regulate their blood sugar.

Here are instructions on how to administer an insulin shot, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

* Thoroughly wash your hands before handing any of the equipment.
* With an alcohol swab, clean the area of the skin to be injected, as well as the top of the insulin bottle.
* Pull back the syringe's plunger, insert it into the insulin bottle, and push the plunger so that air is injected into the bottle.
* With the bottle upside down, pull the plunger back again until the syringe is filled to the appropriate amount of insulin.
* If there are air bubbles, tap on the syringe with your finger, or inject the insulin back into the bottle and refill the syringe.
* Pinch a section of skin, usually on the thigh, arm or stomach, and inject the contents of the syringe at a 90-degree angle.

Health Tip: Help Prevent Menstrual Cramps

Cramps are a common symptom of a woman's monthly menstrual cycle. Some women can prepare their bodies for their period, which may help reduce cramps.

At least two weeks before the period begins, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests:

* Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, avoiding junk foods and high-fat foods. Get protein in the form of lean meats, fish and eggs.
* Getting extra omega-3 fatty acids by eating oily fish like salmon and tuna.
* Reducing your salt intake.
* Limiting caffeine, sugar and alcohol.