Blount Memorial Health Column

When diet and exercise alone are not enough to control blood sugar levels, medication is needed. There are many diabetes medications available to treat diabetes; so, how do you know which one(s) are right for you? Your doctor will determine ...

Sugar - we want it, we love it and we crave it. But as most of us know, extra sugar leads to extra calories, which could lead to extra weight gain. Eating too much sugar not only affects your weight, ...

Whether you are packing your child’s lunch or giving him or her money for a cafeteria meal, remember that a well-balanced meal will help keep your child’s brain and body healthy. Components of a well-balanced meal include grains, fruits, vegetables, ...

If you have diabetes, are you aware that you are at risk for vision loss? Every day in America, 55 people lose their eyesight from diabetes, and diabetes is the leading cause of blindness among adults ages 20 to 74. ...

It is estimated that 40 million Americans are overweight, and 11.5 million are morbidly obese. More than 25 percent of Americans are obese. Our state is ranked No. 4 in the country, with more than 30 percent of Tennesseans considered ...

Sometimes the vacation state of mind can be a problem for weight loss since often we overindulge and dine out frequently. Those who are trying to lose or maintain weight should remember to enjoy themselves, but be mindful of choices ...

More than 10 years ago when the Community Health Initiative was established, a community assessment identified substance abuse, among other issues, as an area of great concern in Blount County. The Substance Abuse Prevention Action Team was one of several ...

Watch your back! No, I'm not talking about someone pulling a Judas. Those are my words of wisdom for everyone from the weekend warrior to the elite athlete. Trust me, I speak from experience. For the last 15 years of ...

Breakfast is your body’s early morning refueling process, so improve your energy, brain activity and health by starting off your mornings with a nutritious meal. After 8-12 hours without food, your brain needs to replenish its glucose (blood sugar). The ...

It is possible to enjoy a meal out without going overboard and ruining your healthy eating habits. One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to do your homework before you leave the house. There is currently ...

Eating healthy is hard enough, and the enticing menu items that call your name while dining out can make it even tougher. So what do you do when you go out to eat and you are faced with foods that ...

Health column

While you’re enjoying the summer heat, start up your barbecue to enjoy the taste, convenience and health benefits of grilled food. Grilling is a healthy way to prepare some of your favorite meats and vegetables, as it allows some extra ...

With the summer months quickly approaching, many people are planning vacations. Unfortunately, diabetes cannot be left at home and individuals with diabetes need to plan ahead. Before leaving, make an appointment with your physician. At this visit, hemoglobin A1C, blood ...

Studies show that many people who are obese also suffer from sleep disorders. Not only is obesity associated with sleep-disordered breathing due to compromised respiratory function, but sleep disorders also can make people less active, which can contribute to obesity. ...