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Workout mistakes to avoid

Follow these tips to maximize your exercise routine When we exercise to lose weight, we may overlook an important weight-loss strategy: Food. “If we don’t eat, we decrease our workout or exercise potential,” says Marc A. Boults, a doctor of physical therapy and certified athletic trainer at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. For short workouts that…
The key to staying young

Maintaining social ties is important for seniors’ health We are sociable beings. As we age, our need for interaction only increases. When a spouse dies, or siblings and friends die, we need support more than ever. Keeping active socially is important to keep an individual healthy. “It almost works like a group therapy,” says Dr.…
Sweet tips for controlling candy consumption

Easter guidelines to keep kids from eating too many empty calories You were feeling generous when you bought those gargantuan Easter baskets, expecting that would be more than enough candy for the entire family. But you didn’t count on Easter baskets from the grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles. Nor did you anticipate the spring…

PCMA Letter: Part of the responsibility of being a father

As doctors and parents, this edition of Central Florida Health News hits very close to home for many of us at the Polk County Medical Association (PCMA). One of the features in this edition talks about how regular health screenings for men are an essential part of living a longer, healthier life. I was honored…
Publisher’s Note: A look at House Bill 9: Involuntary examinations under the Baker Act

As I’m writing this, the 2013 Legislative Session at our state’s capitol is still underway, but will soon be coming to a close. During this process, several notable bills to our healthcare system will potentially be passed. One of the simple, but notable bills is one that will allow physician assistants (PAs) & advanced registered…
Editor’s Dose: Adventures with kids and vegetables

My twins are turning five this year, and they have officially reached the “vegetables are gross” stage. Fortunately, I can exclude my three-year-old girl and two-year-old boy from this dilemma . . . at least two out of four of my kids will eat their greens (and actually enjoy it!). The twins, however, are another…