SUMMER. We crave it throughout the cold winters (especially here in New York), but when it finally arrives, it can be a fair-weather friend.
We’ve all said it once, maybe even a hundred times, when discovering illnesses or conditions in our children.
“Wait, what’s THAT?!”
And doesn’t it surprise us in the summer? Who gets sick in the summer?
Here’s a story that may help your family someday.
Or maybe you’re currently living it.
Meet Nellie. (more…)
Watch out! Heat can be a monster.
Our global neighbors in India have been dealing with devastatingly extreme heat this summer.
As of June 1, 2,330 people have died from heat-related illnesses in India as the country waits for monsoon rains. Temperatures as high as 118 degrees Fahrenheit were recorded in Indian cities in early June.
I recently spoke to an ER doctor in the U.S. who saw five patients in one shift so far this summer, each suffering from heat exhaustion. The ages of those patients ranged from a healthy teenager who spent too much time on the beach to an active 50-something who pushed himself too hard during a 5K race.
When you’re not hydrating properly throughout the heat, you may pay the price, my friend — regardless of how healthy or fit you are. (And no, I’m still not promoting Gatorade or other imitation sports drinks! Refer to my post on the best sports drink you can have on hand.)
But, never fear! (more…)
PUT DOWN the Zyrtec!
THROW AWAY the Claritin!
STOP slamming your sinuses into submission with Flonase!
There IS another way… (more…)
In late April 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a two-day public hearing to gather information about the consumer use of homeopathic products.
I already know what you're thinking …
“Uh-oh. What does this mean for us?”
But before you let worry set in, let me tell you that I see this as an opportunity to provide the FDA with our own feedback based on our personal successes with homeopathy.
The best way to bring someone around to a new way of thinking is through respect and rationality.
The hearing in April focused solely on FDA regulations and labeling requirements for over-the-counter homeopathic medicines.
It did NOT, however, include any discussion regarding the efficacy of homeopathy, the ability of individuals to practice homeopathy, or the removal of homeopathic remedies from the retail market. (more…)
A few years ago, I posted a blog on my alternative to Gatorade. Since that time, two of my sons work in landscaping during the summer months. I’m reposting this recipe for my homemade version that is a variation on a recipe that a friend shared with me years ago.
Dehydration is a threat when the mercury spikes into the 80s.
And since Gatorade is loaded with questionable ingredients like dyes and artificial flavors and plain old water just isn’t enough to prevent electrolyte loss.
This drink is a replenishing and tasty alternative. (more…)
Nearly thirty-five years ago, I worked at NBC as an account executive. It was interesting work because I witnessed firsthand how large corporations in America function. One of my prized accounts was Pepsi Cola.
I never directly met the people from Pepsi Cola but had a working relationship with their advertising team in Chicago. This account was what we in TV media called a “bread and butter” account. That meant I counted on their regular spending on our TV station to make my monthly budget.
One Tuesday morning, I entered my office to the phone ringing. It was the rep from the Pepsi Cola team who unsympathetically and sternly stated, “Get it off the air.”
“Get what off the air?” I asked. (more…)
I write this while my husband is driving on our way back from spending the night at our son's home. My son had phoned me asking me to help him because he had a raging fever, severe head and back pain and weak breathing. He’s not often sick, so when he does this, I know he means business.
I love that he called me. Not a doctor. Not a hospital. Not even a free clinic on campus.
He called his mom.
Perhaps some might not appreciate an interruption in the night, but I thrive on it. And most importantly, I have the confidence that I’ll know what to do.
My guess is that if you’re reading this, you are the same kind of mother. (more…)