by Dan | Jul 14, 2013 | Exercise, Family, Motivation, Weather, Wellness/Health
Yesterday was the 29th Annual Kampeska mini triathlon…and it was one of the biggest yet for participants! We had great weather…minimal wind, but very humid, and by the time the run portion started, it got really hot. We got sprinkles on a few times, which helped out quite a bit. This was the first time for my son Nick, and daughter Molly, as well as my marathon training partner Steve. We got a chance to see one of Sarah’s college classmates, Lori, who came up from Brookings, to participate in her first thriathlon. Here we all are prior to the start.
We got to spend time doing a different adventure, and spend time with family and friends. It was a great way to spend the morning, and stay fit. One thing the triathlon does for you is you is spending time doing different types of execise so it is less likely to get bored with one specific exercise activity. We had a great time, and now we are talking about we are going to do this again next year! The summer is going fast, so continue to take advantage of the weather, and get outside and enjoy! Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 2118
by kelsey | Jul 11, 2013 | Holidays, Wellness/Health
Did you attend the 4th of July parade last week? The 4th of July is always a fun day for all as well celebrate our nation’s independence! The Brown Clinic float was just another reminder to stay up to date on your health assessments to allow you to enjoy the things you’d rather be doing! We’re all busy and the last thing we have time for is being sick…so be sure to check in with your doctor annually or more (depending on your health conditions) to keep you in tip-top shape. Much of my work is focused on preventive care…thus if we can make some improvements in your diet, activity, and lifestyle, you will experience improved health and your risk for disease will be much less to none! If you don’t have a regular provider at the clinic, you can check out our website: www.brownclinic.org and click the “Physicians” tab to view everyone’s profile. All of us at the Brown Clinic take your health seriously and we are here to help you! We encourage you to take good care of yourself so you can enjoy a long and full-filled life!!
Our administrative assistant Stefanie Carlson was in charge of the float… Stef and her kids did a great job!
-Kelsey
by kelsey | Jul 10, 2013 | Exercise, Wellness/Health
With as long as our winters last, I certainly do not want to complain about the hot temperatures we’ve had lately, but I do want you all to practice proper procedures to ensure you do not suffer from any heat related illnesses such as heat stroke or dehydration. With the high temps and humidity, it’s extra important to make sure you get enough fluids! It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day, as it is too late, if you wait to get a drink when you feel thirsty. Especially for those older adults, it takes longer for them to feel thirsty even though they may be severely dehydrated.
Tips for getting adequate fluids:
- Keep a glass or bottle of water with you during the day so you can sip on it. Drink when you are thirsty and even when you are not thirsty.
- Drink more water instead of sugary beverages, milk and juice to avoid those extra hidden calories. Alcohol will increase your water loss. Plain water always works the best.
- Increase your fluid intakes if your diet is high in fiber, protein or salt.
- On days where you may be sweating alot or burning extra calories such as an all day softball tournament in 80-90 degree weather, or doing yardwork/landscaping in the heat all day…you may need to add electrolytes such as Gatorade or Powerade. I prefer G2 Gatorade as it’s lower in sugar, yet still has plenty of electrolytes. **Please note, these drinks are not necessary when you’re doing less than an hour of light activity or more sedentary activities as they just add extra calories and sugar.
- Consult with your doctor or dietitian if you are on a fluid restricted diet and would like further help with your hydration needs.
Use the above chart to determine your hydration level by the color of your urine.
-Kelsey
Graphic Reference:http://www.brownsburgathletics.com/images/urine.gif
by Dan | Jun 26, 2013 | Etc.
The last few mornings going out for either an early morning walk or run has been very nice. Very calm winds. Bright sun. Beautiful around the lake. This is why I exercise. The peace and calm…taking it all in. Getting time to just think! It is a great way to start the day. I start planning on how I am going to go at the day, and how I am going to get things done as the day unfolds. It is easy to get lost in the view of things, and the quietness. This time of year outside does not even compare to running on the treadmill in the winter time. There is no boredom now.
Take the time to appreciate what nature has to offer. Take the time to really think about it. As Kelsey just recently posted, “take the time to smell the roses!”. One day this will not be here, and the same goes for us. Enjoy what we have now.
The bike trail has benches along the way that you can sit and just watch, so if you get tired, take a break and just sit back and think. This bench is at Jackson Park, looking out at the lake. It is easy to just let your mind go and relax.
I have been doing the exercise for quite a while now, but today I hit another landmark. Consecutive Day #2100! I am not about to stop now. There is still too much to see, too much to do, and a lot more things to think about!
Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 2100!
by kelsey | Jun 26, 2013 | Food
The recent storm really took a hit on our area and many didn’t have power for hours. I posted this a few months ago, but I thought I would re-post it as I think this content is very important to review during times like these. Without power to your freezer or fridge, the safety of your food is at risk…especially when it’s 80 degrees out. If you don’t have one already, be sure to get a thermometer for your fridge and freezer so you are able to monitor and track temperatures appropriately…and be sure to follow these recommendations below.
Keeping cold foods cool and hot foods hot may be a challenge without power so follow these recommendations to keep your food safe in an emergency.
- Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. Watch the temp on both using a thermometer. You want your fridge to stay under 40 degrees and your freezer under zero degrees F.
- The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.
- A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.
- If are you able to, get dry or block ice to keep your refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic foot full freezer for 2 days.
- If you are wondering if your food is safe to consume, you need to evaluate each item separately using a thermometer as you cannot rely on the appearance or odor! If the food still contains ice crystals or is 40 °F or below, it is safe to refreeze. Refrigerated food should be safe as long as power is out no more than 4 hours. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard any perishable food (such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers) that have been above 40 °F for 2 hours. Remember…it’s better to discard and buy new than risk it and get sick!
For more tips and detailed recommendations please visit the USDA’s website: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/keeping_food_Safe_during_an_emergency/index.asp .
-Kelsey
