Health | Panache Vue' Magazine

Pilates for Every Mother

May 16, 2013 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

Wondering what to get your mother, your wife who is a mother, your daughter who has a child or your grandmother for Mother’s Day? A gift of health is a good choice; a gift of Pilates exercise is an excellent choice. Pilates has been proven to reduce stress and increase energy while strengthening, lengthening, stretching and toning. Pilates also helps to improve one’s posture, coordination and over all well being. Pilates is for everybody.

Suncoast Pilates offers a variety of ways to give a present of health via gift certificates. Gift the recipient a Pilates private introductory session, purchase a private session package, gift a floor class or present a present of group equipment session package. The studio offers private sessions from early morning till late evening, group equipment sessions and Pilates Mat and Barre fitness floor classes are offered at select days and times weekly. The studio also offers private sessions on the CoreAlign.

For the new mother, Pilates is a great way to get the body back in shape. For those thinking of becoming a mother, Pilates is a great way to strengthen the body in preparation for pregnancy. Clients who start Pilates prior to pregnancy are often able to continue Pilates throughout their pregnancy with modifications. The studio has

Baby Rock photography

proudly exercised many mothers throughout their first, second and even third pregnancies. Pilates offers a wonderful, effective exercise program for both pre-natal and post-natal clients. Suncoast Pilates is proud to showcase some of the Pilates babies born to clients who exercised throughout their pregnancy and returned post-pregnancy to their Pilates exercise program. Recent years include 2012 with five Suncoast Pilates clients giving birth to baby boys, 2011 clients gave birth to four baby boys, with dozens of Pilates babies in years past. This year so far in 2013, we welcomed one Pilates baby girl.

Pilates is for mothers of ALL ages (and fathers too!)

Patricia Welter, B.S., PMA®- CPT Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master™ Second Generation Pilates Teacher Balanced Body® Faculty
Owner Suncoast Pilates

Filed Under: 2013, Health, May 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Fitness, Health, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Pinellas County, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Suncoast Pilates, Tampa, Tampa Bay

When Mama’s Happy, Everyone Is Happy!

May 15, 2013 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Over the years in our home of 3 active boys my wife, Debbie, kept command central in control by juggling sports, school, social calendars and work. The mantra in our home was “when mamma is happy, everyone is happy”! Today we laugh about it, but moms of today juggle so many family responsibilities and set the tone for the home. Not only do they manage the family lives, they very often put their own needs last making sure everyone else’s needs are met. Many times in our dental office I meet moms who are in desperate need of dental treatment but choose to put their children’s needs first. While this is very important, I would like to encourage those moms to think about the model they are setting for their children and somehow find a way to take care of themselves too. I celebrate these moms and invite them in to our dental office to be treated and pampered.

The experience begins the moment you enter our office. Cool, calming, spa colors, a soothing rock waterfall, a coffee bar (that rivals Starbucks) and a warm, smiling face awaits you at check in. Whether you’ve come for your routine hygiene visit or for other dental treatment, your comfort is our prime concern. Using memory foam chair pads, TV and music headphones, sunglasses and a garden view in each treatment room gives you the feeling you’re not in your typical sterile dental office.

For those patients who need a bit more “comfort” in a dental environment we offer several additional options. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available to help relieve dental anxiety. In addition, we are licensed to offer oral and IV sedation, a deeper more relaxing way to get through your dental visit. Very often dental anxiety can be helped simply with calm, soothing music, a dark pair of sunglasses and a caring staff who is attentive to your needs.

Of course we are here to meet all of your dental needs – teeth whitening, bonded fillings, veneers, crowns, root canal, dentures, implants and implant restorations- are some of the services we offer. We even have 6 different lasers to make your dental treatment easier, faster and more comfortable. For those busy and with time constraints we can make Cerec crowns in a single visit. To compliment this we also offer BruxZir Solid Zirconia crowns which are stronger and a beautiful alternative to conventional crowns. If you’d like to pamper yourself we can do that too. If your smile isn’t all that you’d like it to be we have many cosmetic options to help. If your teeth aren’t as straight as you’d like them to be we have options to help straighten them. If your appearance is aging faster than you’re ready for we are proud to offer Botox and Dermal Fillers to enhance your appearance.

Our philosophy has always been and continues to be to keep our service and approach to excellent patient care a top priority. I am extremely proud of my staff that has helped me to make this a reality. I look forward to answering your questions and to serving any of your dental needs.

Larry Lieberman,DDS

Filed Under: 2013, Health, May 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Health, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay

The Clinical Option Of HCG In Your Journey To A Healthier And Thinner You.

May 15, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

With the summer months approaching and longer sun filled days enticing us all to enjoy the beach, our desire to get our bodies fit for swimsuits is very real.

There is a clinical tool available to facilitate a more robust start or restart in the losing of inches. Consider this option not only for swimsuit season, but as one begins to implement a long-term strategy of lifestyle modification and ultimately, transformation. The option is the use of HCG.

HCG stands for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, which is a hormone that women produce in significantly high levels during pregnancy (500,000 to 1,000,000 units / day). It is generally believed that its purpose is to ensure that regardless of whether the mother eats or not, the unborn baby will get its nutrition via a facilitated and more direct breakdown of fat, hence creating a constant source of calories.

HCG in small amounts (100 to 300 units / day) has been used in both genders since the mid 1950s to aid in weight loss. Thousands of persons swear by the results that they have achieved. However it has been very controversial, as the original Italian physician who first promoted it for weight loss also tied it to an extremely low calorie diet of 500 calories / day.

The scientific community has done studies that showed that the amount of weight lost with a 500 calorie plan was similar between groups of people taking HCG and those not taking HCG, hence a large majority have concluded that HCG is no better than a placebo. Further clinical evidence advices against such restricted 500-calorie diets due to potential starvation mode elicited in the body, in addition to concerns of safety.

On the other hand there is now clinical evidence that it is not just the amount of weight loss that needs to be compared; but also the source of weight loss that is important. Specifically it is the desire to lose the “ FAT” weight and not the “MUSCLE “ weight, and if someone is put on a very low calorie diet, the problem is that the person will lose too much muscle, (lean body mass) which is in direct proportion to that person’s metabolic rate. In addition, recent studies have clearly concluded that improving and increasing lean body mass directly decreases insulin resistance, which is the culprit in obesity. HCG treated patients have shown that the amount of muscle loss is half the amount as those following a similar diet but without HCG.

The story that we hear and see often is that a person on an HCG protocol will noticeably see inches shrink on the areas of their body where the fat accumulates the most. It is especially helpful in persons with the “pear shaped” body where the weight is accumulated in the hips and thighs. With many diets, the “pear shaped” body type will many times find their upper body, especially their face, begin to look “too thin” despite the fact that their lower half still has significant excess. The volume of a pound of fat is significantly larger than the volume of a pound of muscle, and hence, as more fat is released, the more volume or inches one’s body shrinks.

HCG is a regulator of hormones, which is of great value in patients with excess weight, as their condition is an expression of an imbalance in their hormonal state. Specifically, HCG regulates many hormones including thyroid and the sex hormones, most notably testosterone. It is used clinically in males to help increase their own production of testosterone, and it is also used in females seeking treatment for infertility. The improvement in the testosterone levels of those on HCG most likely is the reason why muscle weight loss is minimized as the testosterone turns on an anabolic state in the body whereby it promotes muscle development.

In our practice we use mainly the injectable type of HCG. There has been controversy regarding the use of oral forms as recent studies have shown there are no detectable levels of HCG except when the injectable type is used. The FDA (Federal Drug Administration) has been warning consumers that the

Homeopathic HCG products typically marketed as weight loss aids, and sold via the Internet and stores, usually in the form of drops and pellets, are illegal and unproven.

As in any nutritional plan that helps shed of the excess weight, keeping it off is the real story. In our practice, we see a large amount of patients that had done what they thought was HCG in the past and obtained good results, but were not maintainable and they regained their weight plus more. Of course this story resonates with all nutritional plans as most people doing diets only focus on “you can eat this and not that “ for a certain period of time. Afterwards they resume their usual and customary habits, which lead them to gain weight initially and will continue to do so always.

However with those patients doing a very low calorie diet on their own and taking what they thought was HCG, it would make sense that they would initially lose the weight dramatically as 500 calories is drastic. The problem is their weight was lost not only in fat, but also in larger amounts of muscle, which subsequently lowered their metabolism and predisposed them to insulin resistance. That in turn, primed them for quick and unhealthy regain, even though their caloric intake was still low.

In my experience, when HCG is used with close medical management of a very low calorie nutritional plan, it can facilitate a great start. It is used in cycles of four or six weeks; and in between cycles, the nutritional plan is adjusted. Some people do a cycle to get a good start and develop the confidence to be on their journey to a healthy weight. Others use a cycle once they reach a plateau in their weight loss journey, and many see the benefits of helping reshape their body by facilitating the loss of inches in the stubborn areas of their body.

A healthy lifestyle transformation is the goal of any nutritional plan that helps release excess weight, and is ultimately the true measure of success. A successful plan should not only focus on the amount of pounds lost, but more importantly on its inherent ability to help transition into a healthier and maintainable weight. This requires the understanding that it is not a quick fix but a long-term commitment where education, guidance and support are paramount.

Although there are many tools to help aid in our journey to a healthier thinner self, the tool that is the most important is your mind and the thoughts that are elicited every single day. Hence despite great opportunities to help in the rebalancing of our hormones, and improvement in insulin resistance, in my humble opinion, the real goal is the ability to maintain that healthier weight, not a quick fix. That goal can only be achieved if you give yourself the love and commitment to change your lifestyle and recognize that all is possible. You just need to visualize, believe and work at seeing it actualize.

Dr. César A. Lara

César A. Lara, M.D. is a Board Certified family physician and a leading expert in the field of medicine, the treatment of obesity, and weight loss management. For more than 20 years, it has been Dr. Lara’s passion to become a positive force in America’s ever-growing obesity crisis…one patient at a time. Dr. Lara’s dream of helping men and women overcome diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions related to obesity was realized with the emergence of the César A. Lara, MD; Center for Weight Management as a premier weight loss center in Tampa Bay. A graduate of the University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Dr. Lara is known for his strong personal faith and his generous contributions to the Tampa Bay community. Dr. Lara regularly appears on television as a medical contributor to Brighthouse Network’s Bay News 9 en Español and WTSP-TV Studio 10. He frequently participates in corporate health fairs promoting an active lifestyle and healthy weight loss options. He is the founder of St. Michael’s Free Clinic and Weight Away Tampa Bay, charitable organizations that provide free medical treatment to those who cannot afford it.

Filed Under: 2013, Health, May 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Business, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Health, Physician, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Pilates for Golf

April 18, 2013 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

Hit the ball farther, straighter and more accurately with less chance of injury…

Suncoast Pilates - Palm Harbor, Florida

Whether twisting the body on a drive, squatting down to measure a putt or leaning over to pick up a ball, golfers are constantly torquing their bodies. Golf requires repeating the same essential movements. As a result some muscles become overused and others weaken, causing an imbalance. For a golfer, muscle imbalances can affect the legs, hips, arms, shoulders, and the lower back. It can also affect one’s game, particularly for those over the age of 50. Drives may be shorter and less accurate, stamina may decrease, and the potential for debilitating strains, pulls and tears becomes much higher. Many golfers – from weekend warriors to the game’s elite like Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam have turned to Pilates as an essential training tool that keeps the body in balance and actually improves performance.

Why Pilates?

Pilates is based on movement from the center of the body, as are most shots in golf. It strengthens the center of the body, also known as the core (the trunk, shoulder girdle and pelvis). Core strength can improve hip rotation, range of motion in the shoulders and back stability, leading to more powerful and accurate golf shots. Pilates is a full body exercise that works all muscles and is easy on the joints. The end result is a flexible, symmetrically muscled body that is strengthened from the inside out.

Pilates helps you:

Build up the back muscles evenly
Elongate and align the spine for better stability
Strengthen the abdominals
Increase overall flexibility, strength, and balance
Increase range of motion in hips and shoulders
Enhance concentration through focused breathing

A stronger and more stable core helps golfers:

Attain an optimal backswing and follow-through with increased range of motion in shoulders
Get more distance and power because of added hip and torso flexibility
Have a stronger and bigger hip turn for greater power through rotation
Create a smoother and more powerful swing due to evenly conditioned back muscles
Maximize balance and alignment while rotating
Decrease fatigue because of less strain on the body
Hold a body position long enough to play through a shot
Play without pain!

Patricia Massey Welter

Patricia Massey Welter, PMA®-CPT, Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master™, Second Generation Pilates Teacher – Suncoast Pilates – 34080 U.S. Hwy 19 North – Palm Harbor, Florida 34684 - Phone: (727) 772-6772 - www.SuncoastPilates.com

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Clearwater, Fitness, Health, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Personal Trainer, Pilates, Pinellas County, Training

Diabesity

April 18, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

It affects one out of every two persons. This condition makes people sick, fat, tired and eventually limits their life and livelihood. It causes heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, infertility, dementia, sexual dysfunction, cancers and many other life limiting problems. Diabesity refers to the process and continuum from mildly elevated glucose and insulin levels to the full-blown diagnosis of Diabetes. It is in direct correlation to the degree of insulin resistance. Eighty percent of overweight persons are affected by it along with forty percent of persons with normal weight (skinny fat people who are normal weight but metabolically fat).

Insulin resistance develops as a consequence of social, genetic and environmental factors but its primary driver is the food we eat. The main offenders are the simple, refined and processed carbohydrates like pasta, bread, rice, and most starches, along with the use of rapidly observing sugars and liquid calories. These foods increase our cellular glucose and insulin levels and over a period of time, the cells develop resistance to insulin. In turn the pancreas produces more insulin to process the normal and elevated glucose levels. Insulin although necessary for life at normal levels, when elevated causes disease, rapid cellular aging and is the strongest fat making hormone in our bodies.

The good news is that diabesity is completely reversible. Insulin resistance is propagated by the persistent and progressive elevation of blood glucose, which in turn is elevated as a consequence of the high glucose producing foods we eat.

The key to the reversal of diabesity is first and foremost understanding and appreciating that regardless of the state of health that one may be experiencing, we have the power and ability to effect a positive change if we so desire and commit to the change we want. The mind and the thoughts we nurture and listen to color our experience and influence the creation of the life we live.

What we eat directly influences the cellular function of the human body and to reverse Diabesity requires that we focus our life’s journey on incorporating a healthier life style, where we make smarter choices in the foods we put in our mouth.

The goal with proven scientific evidence is to stop eating the foods that create the high glucose surges that are making us ill and instead focus on a nutritional plan where we eat more lean proteins like chicken, fish and tofu. Our plates should be full of color with different vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans and whole grains. These will complement a healthier choice.

Exercise, especially in our sedentary society is extremely important. Although aerobic exercise like walking, biking, treadmill, jogging are mentally and physically helpful as it relates to diabesity, anaerobic exercise like weight training, where the goal is to increase lean body mass has been shown to be very valuable in decreasing insulin resistance.

As we incorporate a lifestyle of a less carbohydrate load to our bodies and begin to increase our lean body mass, not only will our waistlines shrink but more importantly, the insulin resistance will resolve and your sense of well being and energy will return.

Supplements that will reinforce and strengthen your path to resolve diabesity are:

Omega fish oils with a daily EPA/DHA of 2500-5000 mg
Vitamin D-3 with optimal blood levels around 70
Alpha Lipoic acid 150-300 mg twice daily
Chromium Polynicotinate 200-400 mcg daily
Green tea
A good multivitamin and biotin
A prescription medicine that is very helpful is Metformin.

The supplements that are best for an individual should be decided through a medical consultation.

Other factors that are important components of a healthier lifestyle are:

Drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily.
Sleeping an average of 7-8 hours per night.
Stop drinking or eating foods whose list of ingredients reflect chemicals made in a lab, or ingredients you do not recognize.
Whenever possible and as often as possible buy and eat organically grown foods and keep away from genetically modified foods (GMO).
Stress increases cortisol levels in our bodies, which in turn increases insulin resistance. You need to be mindful of the stress you experience or are exposed to and remember to breathe and engage in stress management techniques or exercises that will help keep you alert and focused and not overwhelmed. Yoga and meditation are excellent choices.

You have the power to change, so visualize the life you want, the health you desire; practice reinforcing a belief in the positive outcome that is to come and let life’s miraculous creative ways actualize in the life you live.

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Choosing the Right Clubs and Choosing the Right Dentist

April 16, 2013 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

One of my passions outside of the dental office is golf. I started playing when my oldest son began to play 15 years ago. I love being outdoors, exercising and sharing the camaraderie of the game with my golf buddies. One key to enjoying the game is having the right clubs. Choosing clubs has changed over the years as I have changed. When getting new clubs I ask myself: Are they the right fit? Will they do the job well? What’s the cost factor? Do they fit my need? Can I trust them?

In many ways golf parallels life and I suggest that choosing the right clubs may parallel choosing the right dentist. Today, finding the right dentist and staff that will fit your needs, caring for you and your teeth is an overwhelming task. We now know that your dental health is directly related to your overall health. Choosing a dentist is more than just finding someone to clean your teeth. In addition, as we have recently heard about the importance of sterile dental practices, finding a dental office you can trust is equally an important decision.

Making an informed, wise decision is difficult. There are a lot of choices available- please consider these questions when making your decision:

Does the dentist seem compassionate and caring? Does he listen to your needs?
Does he educate you and give you all of the options available.
Does he have wonderful credentials with many affiliations and continuing education
Is there a highly trained staff and hygiene team eager to help you maintain your dental health
Does the office appear fresh, clean and up on all the latest technology
Is the staff friendly & caring and do they make you feel welcome
Is the office environment warm, calm and serene
Is the office insurance friendly and helpful with other financial options
Are you treated as a unique individual- not just a number

Practicing dentistry in Palm Harbor for over 28 years my goal has always been to treat people the way that I would want to be treated and to help them achieve the smile that they’ve always wanted. Our office offers a wide range of dental and smile solutions, many with immediate results. If there is something that you have always wanted to change about your smile, this is the time to do it. I welcome you and would like to personally meet with you and discuss how you can have the smile you have always wanted. I invite you to call 727-785-8017 and ask for your complimentary examination. You deserve it!

Wishing you good health,

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, April 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Features, Palm Harbor, Tampa Bay, Teeth

The Confusing World of Dental Products

March 17, 2013 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Debbie and Larry Lieberman, D.D.S.

Have you looked at your bathroom counter lately or worse looked in the cabinet below. Amongst the hair and grooming products there’s probably an array of dental products too. From the variety of toothpaste, toothbrushes, rinses and whitening products – how many and which ones do you really need? I’d like to help you “spring Clean” your bathroom counter and educate you on the confusing world of dental products.

With the dizzying array of dental product choices in a typical drugstore aisle, it can be daunting to try and find one that’s right for you. One almost needs a PHD to weather the dental aisle of confusion. Let me try to give you some education to help you make informed choices when caring for your mouth.

• TOOTHPASTE – When choosing a toothpaste, make sure it is safe and will do what it claims. Toothpastes containing fluoride are regulated by the FDA since they make disease-fighting claims. They will display a drug facts listing on the package along with active ingredients & warnings. Those without fluoride are considered cosmetics and are not FDA regulated. In either case ingredients should be listed . Also look for the ADA seal of approval which means the product has participated in a testing program by the ADA. A key ingredient in toothpaste, fluoride benefits all of us – not just kids. It heals and remineralizes the teeth, hardens the tooth surface and slows down the action of acid-producing bacteria. Our patients love the prescription strength paste that we provide in our office. Take caution, very often whitening toothpaste will cause tooth sensitivity. No matter what your oral health needs are, there’s a toothpaste for you. From sensitive teeth, excessive tartar buildup or bad breath there’s a product for you.

• ORAL RINSES – Anti-plaque, anti-gingivitis, alcohol-free- your pharmacy’s oral health section has dozens of mouth rinse products to choose from. The major types of rinse products are: ones that contain fluoride, anti plaque rinses and cosmetic ones. Fluoride rinses as stated before helps prevent tooth decay. In addition people who suffer with dry mouth may also benefit from a fluoride rinse. Anti plaque/gingivitis rinses help by killing bacteria that can cause gum disease. We provide a stronger, prescription strength mouth rinse for our patients with advanced plaque and gum disease. Cosmetic rinses reduce mouth odors and kill bacteria for a short time ,but there is usually no lasting health impact. Whitening rinses are really a waste of your money. Mouth rinses do serve a purpose, however, they are not a substitute for regular and effective brushing and flossing. And when choosing a rinse pick one that has the ADA seal of approval.

• TOOTHBRUSHES – Although some ancient civilizations used twigs to clean their teeth, these days toothbrushes come in a variety of manual and powered forms. Choose a good quality brush that has the ADA seal, whose bristles are not too hard and one that fits comfortably in your hand. For those individuals that wear braces or have difficulty brushing manually, electric toothbrushes are an affordable must. These toothbrushes have been shown to be very effective in reducing plaque. A toothbrush alone can’t do everything to maintain your oral health. They can’t get between your teeth. So don’t forget to purchase good quality floss that can do that. Our patients love their ”goody” bags filled with a good quality brush, floss and rinse.

• TEETH WHITENING – Everyone wants a whiter, brighter smile these days. There are various options to consider. Is one option better than the other? The option you choose will depend on your budget and the severity of your teeth discoloration. Of the various drugstore teeth whitening choices the strips are less likely to cause you to swallow the bleach or damage your gums. However, these strips generally whiten the front teeth and may be too mild to get dramatic results. More lasting alternatives to this would be in office laser whitening and custom made whitening trays. The laser whitening can be done in one office visit and provides instant gratification. You leave with a beautiful whiter smile. Custom home whitening trays usually takes about 2-6 weeks to obtain similar results.

I wish you a healthy, safe journey down the aisle of dental products.

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Features, Palm Harbor, Tampa Bay, Teeth

Spring Into Action

March 17, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Flowers are in bloom, leaves are returning to the trees…Spring is in the air! All of the messages in nature are telling us that a new day for growth and possibility is here. At each of our locations, we meet hundreds of new faces every single week. These people come from different walks of life and each have unique motivations for their weight loss goals, however, they all have one thing in common; they are “springing into action” to create their life of optimal health.

Unlike the bumble bee, which innately follows the cues of nature, we often times need a bit more of a “nudge” to move in the right direction. Sometimes that nudge is a physical one and at other times it is less tangible. Whether it’s waiting for the right offer or being educated more in the specific area of focus, the proverbial “nudge” helps us spring into action and take the next steps towards our goals. We have consistently recognized this need, and have launched our “Spring Lecture Series” which serves to provide both important information relative to topics such as obesity, diabetes, nutrition and the role each of these plays in the personal journey of weight loss. In these lectures we strive to provide information which can quickly empower people to be educated about the potential health threats they are facing and ultimately be motivated to make a change for the better. Below is a sample of some key elements we focus on to help inform people about the potential risks they may be facing:

Waist Circumference (Relative Risk of Diabetes) ¹
28” – 29” : 1.6 times GREATER RISK of having Diabetes
30” – 31” : 4.6x
31” – 33” : 8.7x
34” – 35” : 12.1x
36” – 37” : 16.7x
> 38” : 22.4x

BMI (Relative Risk of Diabetes) ²
< 21 : 1x
21 – 22.9 : 1.2x
23 – 24.9 : 3.1x
25 – 28.9 : 9.6x
29 – 30.9 : 12.7x
> 31 : 18.1x

Excess Weight ³
For every 2.2lbs of excess weight, the risk of diabetes increases by 9%

Diabetes and Obesity are epidemics in our country with over 68% ⁴ of the population either Obese or overweight and 44% ⁵ Pre Diabetic or Diabetic. The good news is, however, that there are simple and practical ways to live a life of optimal health. At our practice we understand that, although the solutions may be simple in theory, the journey is a challenging one. Many of our staff have walked this journey and are able to provide valuable insight and support for success. If you want to live a healthier, happier and more successful life, I invite you to visit us online or call and RSVP for the next date in our “Spring Lecture Series” which provides additional information about Diabesity and how to live a life of optimal health. Come as my personal guest, and be empowered, as we perform a personalized assessment which will include complimentary blood pressure check, accu check, body fat analysis and metabolic testing as well as healthy refreshments. My staff and I will be there to answer any questions you have and help you “Spring into Action” so that you can BE THE BEST YOU in 2013!

¹ Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
² Carey et al. American J. of Epidiol. 1997
³ Mokdad AH. Diabetes Care. 2000
⁴ Flegal KM. JAMA 2012
⁵ CDC.Diabetes Public Health resource. 2011, ADA.Standards of Diabetes Care. 2011, US Census Bureau. 2011

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

It’s Never Too Late

March 17, 2013 By Dr. Paul Duryea Leave a Comment

Dr. Paul Duryea

Just recently I had an adult patient come up to me after her treatment and gave me a big Hug. She said she was so happy that she had undergone her Orthodontic treatment, and said it was life changing.

This kind of took me by surprise a bit and asked her how it was life changing. She just smiled and began to tell me about how awkward she had always been when around new people. She related that she had been out to a party and met and very nice man who she found fascinating. They started a conversation. The entire time she would only speak with her hand partially covering her mouth as to not show in her mind her less than attractive smile. But unfortunately she found she slipped a bit and exposed her smile which made her very self conscience. As the party wound down they exchanged numbers and she was told he would soon be in contact, but it never happened.

At that point in her story I could see a look of sorrow fall upon her face and her new found smile disappeared temporarily. She stated that she felt it was her smile and her lack of self confidence of it was holding her back. That’s when she started her quest for a better smile. After talking to me and my staff she decided she was ready for the transformation and after a short 18 months of treatment she was ready for the world. As it happens she had attended another party at which the man whom she met before was present. She approached him with her newly acquired smile and they hit if off immediately, and they are still together. I found this so gratifying that her improved smile gave her the confidence that she seemed to lack earlier and that was what “changed her life”. The moral to this story is simple. Take the bull by the horns and don’t wait but change your life today. If we can be part of your transformation please call for a complimentary exam and kick start your life.

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Braces, Dentist, Dentistry, Health, Orthodontist, Palm Harbor, Paul Duryea

Suncoast Pilates – Home for Pilates in the Tampa Bay Area

March 17, 2013 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

Serving the area since 1997, Suncoast Pilates has provided thousands of clients throughout the years with Pilates instruction through client engagements, weddings, births, birthdays, children grow up, anniversaries, special moments, special events. Clients come in with special goals, specific needs, post-rehabilitation requirements or come for professional athletic conditioning. As short time needs are met, clients may leave or move, seek other exercise disciplines or have to stop for a while. Pilates WORKS – so a large number of our clients return, finding Pilates yields the best results over a long term basis. When clients return to Suncoast Pilates, in a sense they feel they are coming home, where one knows that Pilates exercise is safe, yet challenging and efficient and provides results.

Suncoast Pilates - Palm Harbor, Florida

Throughout the years, the studio has gone through it’s own “Home Improvement” increasing from 1000 square feet to 2000 square feet, adding a Mat / CoreAlign room in addition to the equipment training room, a private training room and each year adding equipment. The studio revamped their website and added online booking in 2009. The staff is our own family, growing to seven talented Pilates instructors, providing appointments from early morning to late evening.

Serving Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor for over sixteen years, Suncoast Pilates is renown for offering the best in Pilates instruction in the Tampa Bay area. Suncoast has some of the most experienced, highly trained and Certified Pilates instructors in the area and is a Balanced Body Pilates instructor training facility. Suncoast is a fully equipped Pilates studio, offering one-on-one, duet / trio and group Pilates equipment sessions and Pilates Mat classes. CoreAlign® training is offered in private, duo and trio sessions. The studio recently launched an expanded Ballet Barre class schedule; no dance experience required. Suncoast Pilates Barre classes provide an all encompassing full body workout utilizing the ballet barre as the main prop to reinforce ideal positioning of the exercises. Barre classes increase strength, endurance and flexibility, while challenging the core from a vertical position, providing a cardiovascular workout, slimming the buttock, thighs, hips and stomach.

Never done Pilates? Have not been in the studio in a while? Come home to Suncoast Pilates. Why trust your body to anyone less than the best? Train where Pilates instructors train!

Patricia Massey Welter

Filed Under: 2013, Health, March 2013, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Clearwater, Fitness, Health, Joseph Pilates, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Personal Trainer, Pilates, Pinellas, Suncoast Pilates, Training

Get a Body to Love with Pilates

February 10, 2013 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

February brings a celebration of love. Traditionally sweethearts, partners, or spouses honor their love / affection / relationship on Valentine’s Day. Gifts are a rite of passage – flowers, candy, jewelry, dinner, romantic evenings, spa treatments, and / or a card.

How about taking the time to honor oneself? It has been a short time since the holiday season ended. During the holiday season it is easy to fall off one’s exercise routine and tempting to eat less healthy. The New Year is traditionally the time to get back on track with both an exercise routine and better eating game plan. Finding it hard to get back on track? Bored with the same old exercise? Tired of beating yourself up with a workout that makes you unable to sit, walk, or move the next day? Pilates is a proven exercise system that leaves you feeling worked out, stretched, strengthened, lengthened, energized and yet improves posture, balance, and coordination. Pilates practiced consistently yields a trimmer, more toned physique, with leaner waist, hips and thighs.

Suncoast Pilates - Palm Harbor, Florida

Suncoast Pilates, a fully equipped Pilates studio, specializes in Pilates equipment training in one-on-one sessions. Private sessions yield the maximum benefits with the Pilates instructor developing a specific program to fit the client’s needs, utilizing all pieces of Pilates equipment (Reformer, Tower, Cadillac, Ladder Barrel, Ped-o-Pull, Barrels, and Chair). Private sessions are offered six days a week, with availability from 7 am till 8 pm most days. To fit client needs and budgets, the studio also offers Group Pilates Equipment sessions and group Pilates Mat classes at select times weekly. Find a friend, partner, spouse or co-worker and schedule a duo or trio at a time of your convenience. Never tried Pilates? Suncoast Pilates offers a onetime reduced fee private Introductory Session.

What could say “I love you” more than the gift of health with a Pilates gift certificate? Times it by two and bring your Valentine in for a duet. Come in and get your Pilates Body today a body you will love!

Patricia Massey Welter

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Clearwater, Fitness, Health, Joseph Pilates, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Personal Trainer, Pilates, Pinellas, Suncoast Pilates, Training

Journey To Be the Best You

February 10, 2013 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

Many people see the path of weight management and creating lasting change in life as somewhat challenging. Feelings of fear, insecurity, and inadequacy can creep into the mind and heart, leaving some people unable to move forward toward addressing the issues they wish to change. I recognized early that in order for my team, my practice, and myself to help patients create their life of excellence, we were going to have to take an active role as partners on our patients’ journeys. It would be essential for us to not only educate patients from the beginning about what to expect, but also to have a continued role of educating and motivating them every step of the way.

At some point in our life, we have all been faced with creating new behaviors by changing existing habits. Whether it’s weight loss, smoking cessation, starting an exercise routine or committing to personal enrichment, this time of transition holds for you challenge and uncertainty. To maximize success during a given period of change in your life, there are a few key elements which will help:

Education – Learn as much as you can about the journey ahead. Speak with people who have been successful in making the same transition. Speak to professionals in the field, read literature, visit online focus groups, absorb as much as you can about what to expect and how to successfully overcome the challenges that you may face. This will help in alleviating fear and anxiety about the unknown. It is also one of the reasons we spend so much time in our practice working to educate patients each and every step of the way. Then continue to research and learn as you progress along your journey towards the life you desire.

Motivation – Identify in the beginning why you are seeking this change. Is it for better health, to improve mental clarity, spend more time with your loved ones, set an example for your children, to return to activities you used to participate in – whatever your reasons, identify what your motivations are. They will serve as a focusing tool when you are facing moments of doubt and will help realign you with your true path to living the life you desire on the other side of your journey of change.

Support – This key to success should never be overlooked. No matter what journey you are facing, you should not be alone. Rest assured, that there are others in the world who have walked, or are walking, the same path. By finding support through formal groups and other resources, you are increasing your ability to successfully manage the obstacles and transition that exists between who you are today and who you want to be. We provide our patients with online resources of guidance and inspiration, recipes, nutritional, supplements and various support groups to ensure that every tool possible is being provided to assist in this challenging journey of change.

As I tell all of my family, friends and patients…CONGRATULATIONS on taking the first steps to create change in your life! Change is certainly inevitable and can be a beautiful and enriching process. However, no matter how daunting the journey ahead may seem, do not underestimate the power you have within you and the momentum you can gain from properly embarking on your journey. Leverage the guidance of education, the strength of motivation and the stability of support as you move every step closer towards being THE BEST YOU!

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

Love Is In the Air

February 10, 2013 By Dr. Paul Duryea Leave a Comment

Dr. Paul Duryea

“Love is in the air” A sentiment that is very familiar. Being the month of February the world seems to rotate around the theme of Love. Whether it is love of a sweetheart, wife, husband, children, extended family or friends, this month has a very strong take to it. Wouldn’t it be great if we all could have this feeling all year long not just the month of February. Being able to constantly have this feeling of joy to our fellow man is a most amazing thought. Believe it or not we can, it only takes “us” to change it. That’s right going out of our way to help others in need. Putting someone ahead of ourselves in the things we do or think. How much do you think this “idea” could change our world. My bet would be it would be a much better place. I believe it’s time we all take these matters into our own hands and not wait for others to go first. Spread the love not only on Valentine’s Day or even the entire month of February but always.

Have a Happy Valentine’s Day and if I can help you reach the best smile you can have, please call for a complementary evaluation.

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Braces, Dentist, Dentistry, Health, Orthodontist, Palm Harbor, Paul Duryea

Kissing May Not Be Good For Your Health

February 10, 2013 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Dr. Larry Lieberman

Valentine’s Day with its cheesy Hallmark cards and roadside flower stands is a great day to honor and cherish the one you love. In my house, bringing home a romantic card, flowers and delicious chocolate is almost a guarantee to receive some warm hugs and kisses. Those loving kisses, however, may not only be sharing your affection with your sweetheart – they have serious potential to also share the harmful bacteria that causes and spreads periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is an oral condition which involves the breakdown of the structures which support the teeth such as the bone surrounding each tooth and the fibers which anchor the teeth to the gums. Currently, it is felt that the start and progression of periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis) is determined by the body’s response to infection caused by bacteria in plaque.

Research has been done investigating whether or not the bacteria which cause periodontal disease can be passed between people through kissing, or among family members, much like the way the flu or a cold can be spread from individual to individual.

Adults with periodontal disease may indeed be a source of infection of these bacteria to their partners or family members. However, it is important to recognize that a person may have these bacteria in his/her mouth, but not develop periodontal disease.

How can you prevent developing periodontal disease if your partner has it? You, your partner and family members can: 1) Practice better oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly after meals and before bed. By reducing the amount of plaque you leave on your teeth and gums, you also reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. 2) Seeing your dental hygienist who can alert you to potential problems sooner rather than later. Our hygienist’s, Laura and Marla recommend many service and product options that help this problem. In addition, for over 10 years our office has used lasers to treat and heal gum disease. The first in our area to use this state of the art technology, we have enabled many patients to avoid the “cut and suture” traditional gum surgery and replace it with a faster, more comfortable and long lasting laser procedure. If you notice any of the following you may be at risk of having some form of periodontal disease: bad taste in your mouth, bad breath that doesn’t go away, itchy or bleeding gums, loose teeth, pus coming out of your gums or a change in the fit of your denture.

As I’ve mentioned before, periodontal disease can affect not only your dental health but medical condition as well. I urge you to take this disease seriously and get treatment just as you would for a medical disease. It is my wish that you have many years of healthy, sweet and loving kisses with all of those you care about.

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2013, February 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Features, Palm Harbor, Tampa Bay, Teeth

98% Percent of All Self-Directed Weight-loss Programs Fail

December 17, 2012 By John Kent Leave a Comment

John Kent

Here’s How You Can Succeed in 2013 By John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women

The New Year is coming. That means you are getting ready to be bombarded with the long parade of weight-loss offerings. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself against weight-loss offerings that don’t deliver.

But before I give you the information that you will need to protect yourself against these poorly designed weight loss offerings, let’s talk about some of the things that you may have tried in the past?

Low calorie diet
Atkins diet
Low-fat diet
Meal replacements
Over-the-counter pills for weight loss
Not eating past a certain time a day
Supplements found in health food stores
Aerobics or strength training
Exercise-at-home videos
TV shows
Infomercial products
Programs like Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig?

The truth is, most of these are not permanent solutions or they are only partial solutions at best.
If you’re going to succeed with your weight-loss goals in 2013 your weight-loss solution needs to have these crucial five elements:

Nutritional Control
Resistance Training
Cardio & Interval Training
Habit-Based Coaching
Fun

1) Studies have shown repeatedly that although exercise is important, without nutritional control you will not be successful with your weight-loss goals. What you need to do is create a negative energy balance. If you have a negative energy balance you have put your body in a state where weight loss is possible. If you are in a neutral energy balance, your weight will stay the same. This is called homeostasis. And if you’re in a positive energy balance you will gain weight. But, oh, if it was only that simple! The problem is when we cut our calories too drastically we slow down metabolism and all the processes in the body. The body does not know the difference between drastic voluntary calorie restriction and starvation. Also, highly processed foods disable our natural satiation mechanisms. So, we need to find a way to consume lower calorie whole foods that taste great, fill you up, satisfy you and are easy to incorporate into our lives.

2) Resistance training is key. 70% of all the calories you burn everyday come from your resting metabolic rate (RMR). The problem is, as we age, our resting metabolic rate declines. We cannot make ourselves get any younger but we can slow or even reverse our declining metabolic rate by adding muscle. We do this by incorporating resistance training. Not only does this speed up our resting metabolic rate (we burn more calories at rest) but it also helps us to feel stronger, helps our moods, helps us have a sense of well-being and helps prevent osteoporosis along with many other great benefits. Feeling strong feels good!

3) Cardio/Interval Training this is where we burn excess calories. If you’re doing traditional steady-state cardio for longer duration you’ll burn more calories while you are exercising, but not much after you’re done. Interval training is a great option. Although you may not burn as many calories while you’re training, you will burn more calories in the hours after you have trained with this shorter duration/increased intensity exercise training. If weight-loss is the goal, it is best to have a combination of traditional steady-state cardio and interval training incorporated into your weight-loss program.

4) As mentioned earlier, 98 percent of all self-directed weight-loss programs fail and this is where Habit-Based Coaching comes in. The main reason is people try to change too much too fast. But if you focus and work on changing one habit at a time, you have a 76% chance of being successful in changing that habit. If you try to change two habits at the same time your chance of success drops to 35%. Most people approach the New Year and New Year’s resolutions with a kamikaze, 100% or nothing mentality. But just like sprinting, you can’t give 100% long-term. So within one, two, or maybe three weeks after the New Year most resolutions are dropped and forgotten about until the next year or until that “I’m fed up with being fat” feeling comes back again. And then it is like Groundhog’s Day every time one wants to lose weight…they start a new diet and start completely over again. It is like Yogi Bear says, “It’s like déjà vu all over again”.

5) Fun! As complicated as we think we are, anything we do or don’t do is done for only two reasons. Not 100, not 50, not 10, not 5…but only two reasons. The reason you do or don’t do anything is either to gain pleasure or to avoid pain or some combination of the two. It really comes down to just that. So, if you’re going to be successful with a weight-loss program or fitness program it needs to be FUN! Hopefully it has a social element where you can find people that you have things in common with, where you can make friends, and even do other things together.

So, whatever weight loss solution you choose to go with over this next year, remember it should include nutritional control, resistance training, cardio/interval training, and have habit-based coaching to help you take one step at a time. And above all it needs to be fun!

Now that you know why 98% of all other people will fail with their weight loss attempts, now you can succeed!

About the Author, John Kent : John’s North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women was recently voted #1 Best Boot Camp on the Tampa’s A-List for 2012. Time flies in this fast and fun, never-a-dull-moment, one-hour boot camp. Register for the next camp at www.BootCampRocks.com or call John directly at 727-420-8139.

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Fitness, Health, John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women, Tampa Bay, Weight loss

Here’s to a New You – Get a Pilates Body

December 17, 2012 By Patricia Massey Welter Leave a Comment

The holiday season will soon be over and the New Year is just around the corner. Did you take time to gift yourself? What better time to give yourself a gift that keeps on giving, a healthy and strong body. Want to shape up, improve your stamina and endurance, manage your stress and lose a few inches? It is time to get your body into shape with a Pilates body.

Is your current exercise regimen not giving you the results you want? Pilates exercise, created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s, is a proven exercise regimen that will yield a sleeker, slimmer, toned physique while strengthening and stretching the entire body. Not exercised in a long time or having a hard time getting started? Pilates is for everybody – the beginner exerciser or the seasoned athlete. Pilates can be performed on the mat (floor) exercises or specialized equipment, providing both assistance and resistance. Exercises on the equipment can be performed lying, kneeling, sitting or standing.

Suncoast Pilates - Palm Harbor, Florida

Tired of feeling beat up after your workout? While extremely challenging, Pilates leaves you feeling energized, relieves stress yet able to move, sit and stand the next day. Bored with the same old fitness routines with only so many ways to do a bicep curl? Pilates equipment provides hundreds of exercises and variations. Each workout can be tailored with no session seeming the same, yet all body parts are worked simultaneously. Resistance training, the essence of Pilates, has been proven to create lean muscle and rev up your metabolism to burn calories all day long.

How to get started? Find a Certified Pilates Instructor to assist in developing a program to fit your needs. Pilates exercise should be practiced two – three times weekly to achieve maximum results, whether in the home, studio or gym. Suncoast Pilates specializes in Pilates private equipment sessions. With services to fit everyone’s budget the studio also offers duet and group Pilates equipment classes and Pilates Mat (floor) classes. Come in and get your Pilates body today!

Patricia Massey Welter

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Clearwater, Fitness, Health, Joseph Pilates, Palm Harbor, Patricia Welter, Personal Trainer, Pilates, Pinellas, Suncoast Pilates, Training

A New Year, A New You, A New Smile

December 17, 2012 By Dr. Larry Lieberman Leave a Comment

Dr. Larry Lieberman

Another holiday season is coming to a close. Time to put away the gifts, take down the decorations and loosen the belt buckle. It seems we all give ourselves permission to “overdo it” over the holidays and then, in January promise ourselves to get back on track for the New Year. The gym is packed with everyone and their good intentions and new diets. I suggest you look at the state of your dental health in the same way. If your teeth are out of shape, the New Year can offer you hope. Many of you also have dental insurance with a new calendar year maximum available. There are many exciting ways to achieve better dental health.

Here are my top ways to improve your dental health in 2013:

If you drink soda STOP now. Even diet soda and carbonated waters contain carbonic acid which eats away the enamel on your teeth (try pouring soda on a car battery and see what happens). I have seen many patients with significant tooth decay due to drinking “liquid acid”. Recently a patient came to our office and was bewildered as to why she had severe dental problems. She said “I’m healthy, I eat well and I only drink carbonated water”. To her surprise the “healthy” flavored, carbonated water ate away her teeth.

Throw out the cigarettes. It’s a known fact eliminating smoking can reduce your risk for oral cancer, dental cavities, periodontal disease, partial or complete tooth loss, not to mention heart attack and stroke. I have seen many long time smokers give up cigarettes using Chantix, Wellbutrin or the patch.

Keep on a regular dental maintenance schedule. Although it may seem like “just a cleaning”, your hygiene visit is extremely important. In our office, in addition to a thorough probing and periodontal cleaning, our hygiene team will check your blood pressure and screen you for oral cancer. At this important visit many silent problems can be detected early.

Remove old, unsightly silver fillings. The amalgam or silver fillings of the past are not only cosmetically unattractive, they have been proven to fracture teeth and leak causing decay and infection. A simple visit is all that is necessary to replace these fillings with beautiful, strong, white composite bonded fillings.

Don’t be self-conscious any longer. Replace a missing tooth or anchor a loose denture with a strong and stable implant. This wonderful advance in dentistry is the next best thing to having your own teeth.

Give yourself a boost in self-confidence and consider an improvement in your smile. Today’s dentistry offers many innovative ways to do this. Some are quick and affordable while others take more time and a financial investment. Simple, inexpensive solutions like bonded tooth colored fillings, home teeth whitening and the Snap on Smile can easily brighten a smile. More extensive treatment using crowns, veneers and Invisalign (removable teeth straightening) can take years off of your age and give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

As I look back on the past year I am full of gratitude and thanks. I have a wonderful staff, family, friends and most importantly my health. As I look ahead I am optimistic and eager to help you achieve your dental goals, improve your dental health and provide you with the best dentistry available.

Wishing you good health and smiles in 2013!

Larry Lieberman, DDS

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dentist, Dr. Larry Lieberman, Features, Palm Harbor, Tampa Bay, Teeth

Empowering You: To Achieve Your Life of Excellence

December 17, 2012 By Cesar A. Lara Leave a Comment

Dr. César Lara

“There are so many weight loss programs out there, why is yours any different?” This is a question which regularly gets asked of my staff and myself. Simply put, two words: Educate and Motivate.

These are the two tenants by which we partner with our patients to help them achieve the life of excellence that they desire. Throughout our program, we educate each individual about the specific plan which they will be on, and we motivate them to arrive at a place of understanding that whatever is possible is doable – the power lies within them!

When a patient makes the decision to walk through our doors, our first hurdle is not their weight, or even their medical condition, but instead their mind! One of the first steps of the Awakening Phase is empowering our patients to believe that they CAN HAVE the weight which they desire, they CAN LIVE healthy lives, and they CAN ACHIEVE their goals once they choose to change their mindset which is a key element to creating lasting results. Many times, patients come to us and say “I’ve tried every diet out there. I hear you have a great program…but what makes you think that this diet is going to work for me.” The moment you begin this journey of excellence, you must leave “what has happened to you” behind, focus on the things you want and focus on the opportunities that will come into your life as a result of your new mindset and evolved approach to accomplishing your goals.

Once we have established a foundation for motivating our patients, we are ready to help educate them about the program, and how it will assist them on their specific and very personal journey to living a life of excellence. That involves a holistic, science based, approach where we work with each patient to identify an optimal program path towards excellence which includes:

Identifying Healthy Target Weight
Physical & Current Health Assessment
Identify Nutritional Plan
Identify Medicinal Support Tools

During this phase, we Awaken the patient’s perspective to help them understand they have a chronic medical condition. This condition traditionally is created, to a large extent, from behavioral practices, genetics, biochemical responses and many other pathways, but at its core – is a true medical problem, not a function of weakness in character which makes them inadequate. This is unfortunately, a very common thought process for many people who deal with the challenges of excess weight; a thought which, even our medical community as a whole, has continued to support over the years. We use this time to integrate the scientific foundation, that the nutritional program which they are about to begin will create the biochemically driven solution to stabilize the imbalances that may occur as a result of excess weight. This is an important part of the educational process, which motivates patients to feel empowered for the first time in their efforts to achieve their weight loss goals. As well, we educate our patients about the negative impacts that insulin has been having in their body and how making certain nutritional and lifestyle choices can support them in their efforts and propel them closer to their desired life.

Our program has helped thousands of patients achieve their weight loss goals, live healthier lives and ultimately attain new levels of success in all aspects of their life. Our patients understand that as they move closer towards their life of excellence they have the support of our staff, many of whom have been through the program and can empathize with the journey. As well, we offer support groups, recipes, nutritionals and other resources to assist our patients in achieving their goals! Once educated and motivated to truly take ownership in their journey, our patients realize that they are able to maintain a lifestyle of balance, success and happiness. They are responsible for the magnitude of their achievements, and we serve as partners, acting as a light on their journey to the life which they desire. So as you move into the New Year, and are searching for the path to a new you, remember; anything which is possible is doable…the choice is yours – Make the choice today to live YOUR LIFE OF EXCELLENCE!

Cesar Lara, MD

Dr. César A. Lara

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Center for Weight Management, Diet, Dr. César A. Lara, Features, Health, Physician, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay

As the New Year Approaches

December 16, 2012 By Dr. Paul Duryea Leave a Comment

Dr. Paul Duryea

As the New Year Approaches the craziness of the hectic holidays seems to always raise havoc on us

Starting with Thanksgiving brings a season of reflection and inner warmth that hopefully changes us for the better. We realize that we are all blessed in many ways, some extremely simple to others that are complex. It may come as mending a broken friendship or extending ourselves to others beyond what in the past was our comfort zone. This is life at its’ fullest when we can do for others that are unable to do for themselves. That helping hand that at one or more times in our life we all need. That is what makes us unique in the animal kingdom. Let us all take some time this Holiday season and pay it forward. Going out of our way to be friendly and courteous and being cognitive of others around us and what may be going on in their lives. Maintaining our own health is so very important and needs to be high on everyone’s list. From losing those few extra pounds or obtaining that great healthy smile that we have always wanted. We are here to help you in your quest for self improvement. Please call us if we can help you get to your goals for the New Year.

I would like to make my articles relevant to our readers, if you have any questions about Orthodontics please send them to me at drduryea@duryeaortho.com or to my Office 2595 Tampa Rd. Suite 1 Palm Harbor FL 34684 and I will try to answer them in upcoming articles. Have a great Holiday season and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Filed Under: 2012, December 2012 / January 2013, Health, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Braces, Dentist, Dentistry, Health, Orthodontist, Palm Harbor, Paul Duryea

Hip Pain

November 18, 2012 By Jennifer Cook Leave a Comment

Henry William Hanff, MD; Jennifer Lynne Cooke, MD; and Stephen Anthony Hanff, MD

When I ask patients to point to their hip, I get a variety of locations. Some point to their buttock area, some to the outside part of their thigh, and some to their groin. Buttock pain is often due to spine problems such as osteoarthritis of the spine or disc problems such as a herniated disc in the spine. Pain on the outside of the thigh is typically due to hip bursitis, inflammation of the bursa sac on the outside of the hip. True hip pain manifests itself as deep groin pain which can extend down the front of the thigh to the knee. The most common cause of this type of pain is osteoarthritis, or wear and tear changes of the hip joint itself. Osteoarthritis of the hip can range from mild to severe and accompanying symptoms can vary as well. Mild pain can often be controlled with anti-inflammatory medications. These can either be over the counter (non-prescriptive) or require the prescription of a doctor. When taken on a daily basis, these medicines can help to keep the inflammation associated with arthritis to a minimum, thus reducing pain. More progressive arthritis can interfere with one’s ability to walk or participate in sports such as golf. Hips X-Ray A course of physical therapy may be helpful to strengthen the muscles around the hip, thus taking the force off the damaged hip joint and relieving pain. Sometimes, a cane or walker is needed to minimize the stress across the joint. Cortisone, a concentrated dose of anti-inflammatory medicine, can be injected directly into the damaged hip joint under image guidance. This medicine can provide months of relief of pain, allowing individuals to return to activities in a pain free manner and can be repeated several times a year as needed. In severe arthritis, often the only cure is hip replacement surgery. This surgery removes the worn out hip joint and replaces it with artificial components. Only you and your doctor can determine the etiology of your pain and the treatment regimen that is best for you!

Jennifer L. Cook, M.D.

Filed Under: 2012, Health, November 2012 - Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Tagged With: Dr. Henry William Hanff, Dr. Jennifer Cook, Dr. Stephen Hanff, Entrepreneur, Features, Florida Joint Care Institute, Health, Medicine, Orthopedic Services, Tampa Bay, Trinity

Here’s How You Can Succeed in 2013 By John Kent, North Pinellas Adventure Boot Camp for Women

PanacheVue' May 2013