Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Health Tips for January 7

Health Tip: More Than You Can Chew

If you develop trouble chewing, it's important to make sure you are still getting each day's worth of vital nutrients.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers these suggestions to help you maintain a healthy diet as you age:

  • Instead of trying to munch on raw fruits, opt for fruit juice and canned fruits. Raw fruit alternatives include canned pears and peaches, or applesauce.
  • Trade raw vegetables for vegetable juice and softer cooked vegetables, which can be creamed or mashed.
  • Opt for ground meat, or get protein from easier-to-chew sources such as eggs and dairy products, including milk, cheese and yogurt.
  • As alternatives to bread, eat cooked cereals, bread pudding and rice.

Health Tip: Feel Better by Looking Good

If you have a long-term illness, improving your appearance can help you feel better, the American Cancer Society says.

The ACS offers the following suggestions for improving the way you look (and feel):

  • Take time to shave, wash and fix your hair or put on a wig or toupee, and put on makeup. Do this if you're at home, even in bed.
  • Get new clothes or tailor your old ones to fit better.
  • If you're able and it's OK with your doctor, treat yourself to a massage, facial, pedicure or manicure.
  • Try to get as much exercise as you can each day. Even a brisk walk, if approved by your doctor, can do wonders toward making you look and feel better.
  • Keep brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, and get dental checkups.
  • Be sure to get enough sleep.

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