Thursday, January 24, 2008

Health Tips for January 24

Health Tip: Eating During Pregnancy

Many women know that they shouldn't drink any alcohol during pregnancy.

But the American Pregnancy Association warns that there are other foods and drinks that should be avoided, too, including:

* Raw foods including uncooked meats, fish, shellfish and eggs.
* Deli meats and smoked seafood, which may harbor bacteria that are particularly dangerous for pregnant women and the unborn.
* Soft or unpasteurized cheeses, pate and unpasteurized milk.
* Caffeine and alcohol.
* Fish that may contain mercury. These may include: shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. Speak with your doctor about what types and amounts of fish are safe.

Health Tip: Preventing Back Injury

Lifting objects -- sometimes even light ones -- is a common cause of back strain and injury.

To help prevent injury when lifting things, follow these techniques suggested by the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

* Don't try to lift or move heavy objects in a hurry. Take your time and plan what you need to do.
* Bend at the knees right in front of the object. Don't stand too far from it.
* Make sure your feet are positioned shoulder-width apart.
* With your stomach muscles tightened, lift with your leg muscles instead of with your back as you stand up.
* If the object seems too heavy, ask for help.

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