Health Tips for May 20

Health Tip: If Your Child is Having Surgery

The prospect of surgery can scare child a great deal, so it's important to fully prepare the child before you head to the hospital.

The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital offers these suggestions:

* Find out as much as you can about the surgery, so you can answer the child's questions and reply with the right information.
* Be honest when answering questions, but make sure your responses are appropriate for the child's age.
* Read books with your child about preparing for a trip to the hospital.
* Take a tour of the hospital, including areas where the child will be.
* If your child is old enough and mature enough to make a choice, let the child make it.

Health Tip: What Your Bones Need

It's important to practice good bone health when you're young, to prevent problems later in life.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these guidelines for people of different ages:

* Between ages 10 and 20: Get 1,300 milligrams of calcium each day by eating plenty of calcium-rich foods such as cheese and leafy green vegetables. Drink at least three 8-oz. glasses of milk each day.
* Between ages 20 and 35: Get at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day. Perform exercises such as jogging or walking to help strengthen bones.
* Between ages 35 and 50: You still need 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day as bone loss may have already begun. You may want to ask your doctor about bone density screenings.
* Age 50 and older: Be sure to get at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, and at least 20 minutes of weight-bearing exercise three days a week or more. Also, your doctor may recommend a vitamin D supplement.