The Alzheimer’s Association of Central and North Florida, which serves 43 counties including Lake, Marion and Sumter, reminds us that September is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. The local organization provides education, support and fundraising help for families affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.

There is a 24/7 helpline (800.272.3900) for help and support. Donate at alz.org/cnfl.

Water-based exercise offers advantages you can’t get on land. According to Harvard Health Publishing, exercising in the water is
gentler on your joints, which makes the pool a welcoming environment for anyone with arthritis or joint injuries. Because water is denser than air, H2O provides 12-14% more resistance for cardio and strength training. Find out for yourself at these local public pools:

• Leesburg Aquatic Center, 302 Pine St., Leesburg | 352.728.9885

• H. O. Dabney Pool, 312 Pine St., Leesburg | 352.728.9887

• Mount Dora Swimming Pool, Lincoln Avenue Community Park, 1200 N. Unser St., Mount Dora | 352.735.7173

• Eustis Aquatic Center, 250 Ferran Park Dr., Eustis | 352.357.3264

• Clermont Aquatics (swimming pools), Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, 3700 S. Hwy 27, Clermont | 352.394.3500

• To find a pool in The Villages, go to The Villages Community Development website at districtgov.org

According to Dr. Nitza Alvarez, a local cardiologist and author of “Heels vs. Ties,” marriage largely reduces heart disease risk in men, but the stress of marriage increases heart disease risk in women. Who knew? For more fascinating and illuminating information, find Dr. Nitza at www.nitzamd.com or get “Heels vs. Ties” on Amazon.com.

#safeandsoundatwork

August 12-18 is National Safe and Sound Work Week, sponsored by OSHA, NSC and The American Society of Safety Professionals. The week is a challenge to colleagues, suppliers and partner organizations to work safely each day and to inspire year-round safety overall. Some of the industries participating include:

• Agriculture
• Construction
• Federal agencies
• Healthcare
• Maritime
• Oil & Gas
• Warehousing

The proper color of lenses for sunglasses can make all the difference when you’re out in elements battling the UV rays. If you are a multi-sport person, look for frames that allow for interchangeable lenses. Here’s what colors coordinate best with popular activities.

Regular foot care can be crucial for foot wellness and health. According to Tamara Weeks, a nail care wellness specialist, many of her clients come from podiatrists and she can help heal “troubled” toenails. “Many times, men will come in embarrassed because they have fungal issues or other problems,” says Tamara. “After treatment they leave feeling confident to wear sandals or go barefoot.” To introduce your toes to Tamara, call Ageless Beauty Med Spa in Leesburg / 352.319.6768.

Juicing is a longstanding dieting trend that has gained popularity in recent years. As you pulverize, crush and squeeze your fruits and veggies, consider the benefits as well as drawbacks. 

Pros: Juicing can be a good way to get more servings of fruits and vegetables into your diet and can provide important nutrients beneficial to your health.

Cons: Juicing removes fiber that contains vital nutrients you need. In addition, excessive juicing can lead to increasing the number of calories you consume daily.

Eggs are a great source of protein and nutrients, and, unless you have been diagnosed with egg allergies, could be a great source of nutrition. If you are concerned with cholesterol, egg whites are a great choice. For more nutrients, go with the whole egg. Poaching and hard-boiled are the healthiest preparation methods. Frying in butter and bacon fat may be tasty, but that preparation method is by far the least healthy.

Nutrition Source: Nutritionix.com

Snoring can be adorable when it comes from your puppy… but human snoring is downright upsetting and annoying when it’s loud enough to shake the walls. If it gets to the point that you can’t breathe or sleep, you have to see a doctor. Your primary care physician is the best place to start for a referral to a sleep specialist. Be sure to have about three weeks of documented sleep information and keep track of the following:

• How long you sleep each night

• Your partner’s observations of you waking or not breathing

• How you feel in the morning and throughout your day

According to the ATF’s Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the term “non-alcoholic” labels beers and malt beverages that contain less than 0.5% ABV. “Alcohol-free” can be labeled on malt beverages only if they contain 0.0% ABV. Either way, taking the booze out of beer is a fantastic way to keep the taste and sensation of a frosty brew and can help improve your overall health.