Winter 2011 Begins!

Sarah and I managed to get outside early this AM to go for our run before it really started snowing.  We had only a few flakes at the start, then started getting a little heavier as we went, but didn’t really start coming until after we were done.  We just had to put up with the wind.  Here is what it is doing outside now.  The wind is blowing pretty good, and you can see the contrast of what the snow is doing against the window section on the left versus the screened section on the right.  Hopefully after today, the snow won’t last long as it is supposed to get close to the 40’s as the week goes, and the high 40’s by Thanksgiving.  Yeah!  Have a good weekend, and stay safe.

Dr. Dan

Consecutive Exercise Day #:  1514

Temperatures dropping!

The temperatures are definitely dropping!  It was kind of cold running this AM.  Ice is beginning to develop on the lake, and we are supposed to get snow on saturday.  I wanted to make sure to get out and run today, and will again tomorrow.  Even though it is cold, it is still easier to be out with no snow or ice.  This is where you really have to start with some self-motivation to get yourself to go out and exercise.  You still have the option of being inside, but I like getting out and being able to look around.  The bike paths are still clear yet, so I am going to use as long as I can.  Maybe I will see you out there yet.  The temperature may be dropping, but you need to keep your will power climbing.  Hang in there, and again, KEEP MOVING!

Dr. Dan

Consecutive Exercise Day #:  1512

Holiday Grocery Shopping

With Thanksgiving a week away, many are starting to think about getting their holiday groceries and starting the prep work for the holiday feast. As you look at your recipes and menu, take some time to further examine ways to lighten up your recipes. Try these tips:

  • In soups, sauces, puddings, and desserts: replace whole milk or cream with low fat milk, evaporated fat free milk, or nonfat dry milk
  • To make dips and toppings: use low fat or nonfat cottage cheese or sour cream
  • To make salad dressings: use nonfat yogurt or low fat buttermilk
  • In place of 1 whole egg: use 2 egg whites or 1/4 c egg substitute
  • In place of regular cheese: use fat free or reduced fat cheese

Next week we’ll discuss some strategies for staying on track with healthy eating with all the temptations that the holiday foods involve. And be sure to come visit us at the Brown Clinic booth at the Women’s Escape on Saturday!

-Kelsey

 

National Diabetes Month

Did you know that about 25 million people in the United States are living with  diabetes? A great deal of my work at the clinic is working with patients who have diabetes and are working hard to keep their blood sugars in a desirable range. Diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to make or use insulin properly.  Risk factors include obesity, inactivity, poor diets, family history, history of gestational diabetes, older age, and some ethnicities are more at risk than others. Managing your diabetes is essential to help prevent any long term complications such as impaired vision, kidney function, nerve damage and heart disease.

Checking your blood sugars regularly is one step for keeping good control of your blood sugars. In addition, it’s important to limit high sugar and white refined grain foods, pay close attention to your carbohydrate intake by eating consistently throughout the day (several small meals and snacks/day), practicing portion control, choosing more whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats, and of course staying active.  Achieving this balanced diet isn’t always easy, which is why we’re here to help! If you want to learn more about eating healthy for good blood sugar control, contact us today!

-Kelsey

Women’s Escape Saturday!

 

The Watertown Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Women’s Escape Saturday and we invite you to attend! It is going to be held at the Codington County Extension Complex from 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is $5 and they are accepting donations of bath, body or hair care products for the Women’s Resource  Center. There are a lot of excellent booths and great speakers.   A light lunch  consisting of soup, sandwiches, and dessert will be available for purchase. I will be hosting the Brown Clinic booth so be sure to stop by and visit!

-Kelsey