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Tips for Quitting

Tips For Quitting

Guest Blogger: Holly Hobert, BSN, RN, CTTS

Quitting tobacco is the single best thing you can do to improve your health. Quitting smoking at any age can lead to positive health outcomes. YOU DESERVE TO QUIT!

Get Help! People are more successful when they get help quitting. Both Myers and Belington Clinics have a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist on staff, which includes myself and Kim Jeffries, RN, CTTS. We have specialized training, which provides us better understanding of how to help you Quit.

It’s Not Just A Matter Of Will Power! Nicotine is as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Smoking increases the number of nicotine receptors in your brain. When you stop smoking, those receptors continue to expect nicotine. The adjustment process, is what causes cravings and withdrawal. We can recommend which medications may be right for you. Some medications are over the counter and some are by prescription. All of our providers advocate and support tobacco cessation.

Multiple Quit Attempts Get You Closer To The Finish Line! It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried many times and not been successful. Each Quit attempt gets you closer to quitting for good. The average person takes an average of 8 – 11 attempts to quit. It doesn’t matter if you’ve smoked for 1 year or 40 years, you can still benefit from quitting. 

Build Your Quit Plan

  1. Pick a Quit Date — Sooner is better than later. Choose the date carefully. This is a Big Step and huge decision. Circle the date on the calendar. 
  2. Let Those Close To You Know You’re Quitting — Quitting is easier with support from important people in your life.
  3. Get Rid of Smoking/Tobacco Reminders — For Quit day, get rid of all cigarettes, tobacco, e-cigarettes, matches, lighters, ashtrays. Don’t keep a back-up for “just in case”. Clean out your home and car to rid the smell, as this can trigger a craving. 
  4. Identify Your Reasons for Quitting — As you prepare to Quit, think about your reasons for quitting and remind yourself of them every day. They will inspire you to quit for good. Write them down and hang them up in a prominent place, such as the refrigerator or bathroom mirror.
  5. Identify Your Triggers — Make a list of everything that makes you feel like smoking or chewing and include ways to deal with these or avoid these triggers.

6. Develop Coping Strategies — When you quit tobacco, smoking or e-cigarettes, your body has to adjust to no longer having nicotine. This is called withdrawal, which is unpleasant, but you can get through it. Medications and behavior changes can help you manage symptoms of withdrawal. Make sure to have medications on hand prior to your quit date. Remember, cravings will lessen with every day that you stay quit. 

For more details on How to manage cravings, check out this site.

7. Hang in There — The first few weeks of quitting are the hardest. You will deal with uncomfortable feelings, temptations, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. Plan on using multiple support options such as mobile apps, WV Tobacco Quit Line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Remember we are here for you, want to support you and can walk you through the quit process. 

8. Reward Yourself — Reward yourself throughout the process. Each minute, hour and day you have been quit is progress toward your goal. Give yourself a reward at 24 hours, one week, and one month quit. Be proud of your accomplishments. Consider putting the money you would have used for tobacco in a jar and use this for the reward fund. 

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

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January 10, 2023 No Comments

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Like many health clinics across the nation, Barbour Community Health Association has begun offering telehealth services to its patients. Through virtual doctor visits, patients are given the option to converse with their provider about medical concerns via video chat or phone. These services allow patients to still feel connected to providers while practicing social distancing and staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We sat down with Jennifer Burner, MHA, PA-C, Clinical Director, Director of Quality Improvement & Risk Management, to find out more about telemedicine and how useful the resource is during these unprecedented times.

 

Q: What is telehealth?

A: Telehealth has been around for years, but many providers have been slow to adopt these methods due to spotty access, but also because of limited insurance coverage for care. Telehealth allows providers to care for and protect patients and BCHA staff during COVID-19.

Q: What telehealth options are available through BCHA?

A: We offer two different services with BCHA for telehealth. We offer a virtual telephone visit — similar to a telephone encounter that you’ve had with your provider in the past. Your provider can speak with you briefly for five minutes to determine if you need to be seen in person or they can speak to you over a longer course of time to discuss chronic disease or other issues you may be having.

We also offer a video conferencing or video chat appointment, and basically, it’s an online video meeting with your provider. It’s live and a real time visit where you can see your provider on your screen and your provider can see you. You can do it through a smartphone, a tablet and a home computer as long as you have a camera.

Q: What medical concerns can be seen by a provider via telehealth?

A: Anything that can be examined through video can be done through a telehealth appointment. One thing we can’t do is if you have a problem and we need a specific medical tool to diagnose you — for instance, if you have an earache, we can’t look at your ear through a video visit.

However, a lot of other conditions, like a rash, discussing chronic disease like diabetes or hypertension,  can discussed through a telehealth appointment.

Behavioral health patients can also use telehealth to speak to their therapists and counselors. It’s confidential and private, but there’s still that connection that you get face to face.

Q: Who can participate in the telehealth appointments?

A: Any patient can participate. If the patient is a minor, they’ll need to have a guardian with them and the guardian will have to give consent for the visit.

Q: How secure are telehealth visits?

A: We use a platform called UpDox and it’s a video chat that allows BCHA to offer secure communications with patients. It is very secure, and we also have a very strict consent policy where the patient is made aware of anybody who may be in the room. However, we do not let anybody in the room when we’re doing a video chat. We’ve put a lot of measures in place to make sure we’re protecting our patients’ privacy when we do these calls.

Q: What do I need to do to begin telehealth and get connected with my provider?

A: You can call your provider’s office and speak to registration and just let them know that you would like to set up a telehealth visit — whether that be a telehealth call or video chat.

 

To schedule a telehealth appointment, call Belington Medical Clinic at 304-823-2800 or Myers Clinic at 304-457-2800.

When you call to make an appointment, a BCHA representative will inform you of available telehealth appointments and if a healthcare provider can assist you via telehealth depending on your medical needs/concerns.

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

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January 10, 2023 No Comments

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, LPC

If someone told us last year that we would be confined to our homes and fighting a pandemic in 2020 would we have believed them? I sure would not have. But here we are. West Virginians are strong and resilient, but if you feel stressed or anxious about what is going on in the world you are not alone. In March a survey done by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that over one-third of Americans report their mental health has been seriously impacted by coronavirus and 59% state it has had an effect on their daily lives. The good news is there are things we can do each day to combat that stress and anxiety.

Signs of Stress
Being able to recognize the signs of stress can be vital for those who surround you. Stress can manifest itself in both physical and emotional ways. Remember, those closest to us often see these things before we do. So, if a family member or friend voices concern, try and listen. Here are a few common signs and symptoms of stress to look out for in both yourself and others:

  • Sleep difficulties
  • Appetite changes
  • Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Muscle Tension
  • Irritability
  • Depressed Mood
  • Lack of Interest in Previously Enjoyed Activities
  • Persistent Worry

Coping Skills
There are so many ways people can deal with stress, it’s important to have healthy ways to cope. If you or someone you know is experiencing increased stress, here are a variety of self-care activities they can participate in to help calm their bodies and minds:

  • Sticking to A Consistent Daily Schedule
  • Taking Breaks to Breathe and Relax through Meditation or Stretching
  • 20-30 minutes of Light Exercise
  • Fueling Your Body Through Proper Nutrition
  • Encouraging Healthy Brain Activity Through Reading, Arts & Crafts, and other Creative Ventures
  • Maintaining Social Connection Through Phone Calls, E-Mails, or Online Video Chats with Friends and Family
  • Avoid Numbing Agents such as Alcohol or Drugs

Additional Support
If you find yourself still feeling stressed after trying the above tips, or if you have a mental health condition and your symptoms are increasing, please reach out for help. You are not alone, and you do not have to go through it alone.

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

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January 10, 2023 No Comments

Healthcare Worker Burnout – How Much is Too Much?

Healthcare Worker Burnout - How Much is Too Much?

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, Barbour Community Health Association LPC

Every day, healthcare workers of all kinds put themselves in harm’s way in order to do what they feel called to do, assist others. Our current situation has shed a new light on these amazing individuals and the sacrifices they make daily to do their jobs. Unfortunately, their work also bares the risk for becoming stressed or overwhelmed, particularly in times of crisis much like our current state.

When a healthcare worker becomes overwhelmed to the point where they are unable to perform their duties, it is often referred to as burnout. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality defines burnout as “a long-term stress reaction marked by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of sense of personal accomplishment.” Recognizing and addressing burnout is not only important for the wellbeing of our healthcare workers, but also for the patients who are depending on them for safe and effective care. So how do you know if you or someone you work with is experiencing burnout and what can you do to fix it?

While every individual brain and body is different, there are some common signs of burnout to look for in both ourselves and others. Physical signs may include:

  • Freezing
  • Unresponsiveness/Distracted/Dissociation
  • Darting Vision
  • Hypervigilance
  • Restlessness
  • Exaggerated Startle Response
  • Sensory Sensitivity
  • Avoidance Behaviors
  • Reckless/Self-Destructive Behaviors
  • Sleep Difficulties
  • Preoccupation with Exit Strategies/Physical positioning
  • Frequent Somatic Complaints

We may also experience emotional signs and changes such as:

  • Diminished Interest in Activities
  • Irritability/Anger Outbursts
  • Persistent Negativity
  • Mood Swings
  • Emotional Sensitivity
  • Rigidness and Inability to Adapt to or Accept Change
  • Cognitive Distancing or Operating on Auto-Pilot

If you or someone you know is experiencing burnout, there are strategies and resources available to help restore them to a healthier state.

Relaxation and emotional regulatory activities such as meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery encourage activity in the frontal lobe of our brains. The result allows for increases in concentration, memory, and rational thought.

Basic self-care in the form of eating, sleeping, physical activity, and social connection is also important to both preventing and treating burnout. Keeping a consistent schedule each day with regards to these basic activities allows our brains and bodies to know what to expect and when. In uncertain times such as these, something as small as knowing when you will be eating or sleeping can be comforting and provide a sense of normalcy within the daily routine.

If you are concerned for a co-worker, there are options for how to appropriately guide them to help. If you feel comfortable approaching them directly, do so with clear intentions of genuine concern. Simply stating, “I know this is a difficult time and I just want to check in with you and see how you’re doing” can go a long way. Give them some time to process your question and their own feelings, as they may not realize the potentially harmful state they are in.  

If your concern isn’t well-received or you don’t feel it appropriate to approach the person directly, address your concerns to your supervisor to ensure they are getting the help they need.

Last, but certainly not least, remember to be kind and patient with both ourselves and others. Everyone will have good days and bad days, and that is okay. Staying focused on the light at the end of the tunnel can help to stay on track through these difficult, but temporary times.

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

Homebound? Anxious? On edge? The coronavirus isn’t the only health risk our community will have to battle. Our Barbour Community Health Association therapists say the fight for our mental health is just as serious, which is why we have adapted our practices to keep them working with patients at home during the stay-at-home order.

When you’re suffering on the inside, day-to-day tasks are challenging and can be a difficult hurdle to jump alone. Unfortunately, seeking mental health services can be difficult for some. Whether it’s the stigma surrounding mental health or one’s ability to pay/ have health insurance, these instances can often halt someone from getting the help they need.

Thankfully, we offer numerous behavioral health services to help you sort through any anguish with a trained professional. With well-trained psychologists and licensed counselors, BCHA can help diagnose and treat a range of mental illnesses, from depressive, anxiety, and eating disorders to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as many others. BCHA takes pride in taking care of one’s emotional/mental well-being to enhance their quality of life.

Keep reading this blog to find out how you can comfortably start therapy at home during this uncertain time with BCHA and what you can expect.

 

1. Keep searching for the right therapist.

Stepping into a virtual therapy office is a milestone for someone suffering from a mental illness. With that said, if you don’t quite jive or feel comfortable with the first therapist, don’t be afraid to find a different one. It’s important that you feel relaxed, open and honest so you can form a solid relationship with the therapist. This way, you’ll feel more motivated and open during your scheduled sessions, which in return, will help your mental health.

2. Disregard the stigma.

So many people go without therapy or treatment for mental illness because of the stigma attached to mental health. However, you should not let the crude remarks and comments negatively affect you and your journey into a better life. And, please understand that each therapy session is completely confidential. You should never have to worry about any information being discussed amongst others. 

3. Be comfortable talking about therapy.

Talking about therapy to a close friend or family member can be a relief and take away any anxieties you may have about future sessions. Not only will this help your fears of embarrassment, but openly talking about therapy breaks the stigma. Be mindful that you don’t have to share all the details that were discussed during the session, however simply saying ‘I had therapy today, and it really helped get a lot of things off of my mind’ can be huge with your fears of therapy.

4. Money might be a concern, but your mental health is worth it.

Along with the stigmas attached to therapy, sessions can oftentimes be steep, which ultimately stops people from therapy. However, it’s important to understand that your mental health and quality of life is worth every penny. Luckily, BCHA offers sliding scale fees for those without insurance or underinsured individuals. BCHA encourages folks not to stray away from services because of cost or the stigma attached to mental health.

5. Virtual appointments are available during COVID-19.

These are unprecedented times but BCHA is evolving and adapting to how it meets with and treats patients while COVID-19 persists. Virtual appointments, through video and telephone, are available and will be utilized until it’s safe to resume “normal” in-person appointments at one of its Barbour County locations.

In each service that is offered, BCHA is looking out for the betterment of each patient that needs help, whether that’s physically or mentally.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic brings with it uncertainty for everyone as we cope with uncertain timelines, time away from loved ones and increased amounts of stress due to financial hardship – just know what we are here to help.

If you’re struggling, please consider reaching out to BCHA and scheduling a phone consultation with one of our experienced counselors. 

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

There’s No Place like Home for Myers Clinic’s New Nurse Manager

There's No Place like home for myers clinic's new nurse manager

The Myers Clinic is thrilled to have Lorelle Kisamore join the team as the clinic’s newly hired nurse manager. Lorelle has almost 40 years of nursing experience working in various positions and roles in the area and is sure to be an asset to the nursing department. We sat down with Lorelle and discussed her background as a nurse, how she hopes to grow in her new position as the nurse manager.

Q: Did you grow up in Barbour County?
A: Yes, I am a local girl. Having grown up in Barbour County, it’s exciting to be able to take care of my neighbors, friends and the community.

Q: What qualifies you for this position?
A: I have 38 years of experience as a nurse and have worked in various roles. Most recently, I was the Director of Nursing for the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Home in Clarksburg for 7 years. In 1981, I graduated from Davis and Elkins College with an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.

Q: With so many years of experience, what is your favorite thing about being a nurse?
A: I like that nursing doesn’t confine you to one particular area. You can be a nurse in surgery, ICU or an outpatient clinic and then switch to another area if you want to try something else.

Q: What will be your duties as the Myers Clinic’s nurse manager?
A: I will schedule staff, ensure that the office runs smoothly and adapt and move staff around to cover when needed. I will assist the staff to provide care for patients when the need arises. I’ll also oversee the ordering supplies, medications and equipment.

Q: What do you hope to bring to the Myers Clinic?
A: I hope to bring stability to the clinic because when there’s a change in an area, there’s fear. But, I will treat everyone equally and I will help out whenever and wherever help is needed.

Q: How do you like to spend your spare time?
A: My family and I like to camp at Holly River or Canaan. I enjoy reading while my husband trout fishes at various streams in the area. I also am a volunteer with the Barbour County Fair Board where I serve as secretary. 

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

Cervical Cancer Myths Busted

Cervical Cancer Myths Busted

Cervical cancer is considered the fourth most frequent cancer in women with nearly 13,000 women in the United States diagnosed each year. These numbers are startling. However, with vaccinations and early care, many of these women can prevent or lessen the severity of cancer.

That’s why the month of January is so critical in women’s health. January is recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and empowers people living with cervical cancer and advocates for screening and the HPV vaccination — two factors that can prevent cervical cancer.

With that said, it’s important to understand what HPV is and how it is linked to certain cancers.

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. The HPV infection has been known to cause cancer in the genitals, head, neck, and throat. Cervical cancer is by far the most common HPV-related disease and nearly 70% of cases are attributable to HPV infection.

We sat down with Patti A. Hackney, MSN, APRN, CNM and Kelli Snider, LPN at Barbour Community Health Association to bust some common myths surrounding cervical cancer and vaccinations:

  1. Myth: Only girls should receive the HPV vaccination.

Fact: HPV affects both men and women and can cause genital warts, penile, anal, and oral cancer. It can also be easily transmitted to a sexual partner without either of the partners knowing.

  1. Myth: The HPV vaccination causes HPV.

Fact: The vaccine has been researched for many years (including at least 10 years of research before it could even be used in humans) and is highly monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Vaccinations in the U.S. have never been safer because of the stringent standards the FDA uses.

  1. Myth: My child doesn’t need the vaccine; they aren’t sexually active.

Fact: It’s recommended that your child receive the HPV vaccination as soon as possible to prevent them from exposure to the virus. Two doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for all boys and girls at ages 11-12; the vaccine can be given as early as age 9. If you wait until they’re 15 or older, they need three doses instead of two.

  1. Myth: HPV isn’t common.

Fact: HPV is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact with over 80 million Americans currently infected. In fact, nearly every male and female will be infected with at least one type of HPV at least once in their lifetime. This is why early vaccination is so important to preventing the spread and exposure of HPV.

  1. Myth: The HPV vaccination isn’t safe.

Fact: The Centers for Disease Control indicate that with over 12 years of monitoring and research, the HPV vaccination is very safe. Each HPV vaccine went through years of extensive safety testing before they were licensed by the U.S. FDA. The FDA only licenses a vaccine if it is safe, effective, and the benefits outweigh the risks.

With this information in mind, understand that standard GYN visits, routine screenings and vaccination could save you or a loved one’s life from cervical cancer or other cancers that can be brought on from HPV.

If you have any further questions, give Barbour Community Health Association a call today!

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

Most students take final exams seriously. After all, final exams reflect a student’s performance for the semester’s coursework and are a sign that holiday break is in the near future.

But late-night study sessions, skipping meals and eating not-so-healthy quick snacks can really play a role in your academics. Think of it this way — if you’re not feeling your best (sluggish, exhausted, etc.) then you won’t perform your best (acing those tests)!

But no worries, Alderson Broaddus’ Wellness Center has tips on how to stay healthy and motivated while preparing for finals.

 

  1. Sleep, sleep and more sleep!

Sleep is so important, especially when you’re preparing for an upcoming exam. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a restful sleep improves learning, attention, and problem-solving ability. Young adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. During finals week, try not to disrupt your normal sleep routine by pulling all-nighters.

2. Eat right, feel better.

Eating a well-balanced meal and foods that boost productivity will become your study buddy as you tackle exams. Avocados, nuts, berries and dark chocolate will give you that extra brain power every student need during exam week.

 

3. Chill out.

It might seem that you have to constantly be on the grind with studying, but that’s not true. You don’t want to burn yourself out before the day of the test. Be sure to take 50 to 90-minute rest periods in between each study session.

 

4. Stay hydrated.

During finals week, it’s unwise to overindulge in coffee and energy drinks as it’s not good for the body and typically leads to an energy crash. Instead, it’s recommended to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Water is good for you and will give you the energy you so desperately need!

5. Get movin’!

In between study sessions, take a walk, hit the gym for some light cardio or take a yoga class to relax. Just get those bones moving and the blow flowing! Exercise will help you focus and give you an energy boost!

Finals week is a stressful time, but don’t let unhealthy tendencies get in the way of you passing those tests! With these tips, you’ll be rejoicing over the holiday break with good grades and a happy body and mind!

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

What to Expect from Your Medicare Wellness Visit

WhAt to Expect from Your Medicare Wellness Visit

Medicare fully covers the Medicare Wellness Visit, a yearly appointment to discuss your plan of preventive care for the coming year. Different from a head-to-toe physical, the Medicare Wellness Visit focuses on prevention for

Medicare members. With your health care professional, you will discuss current health and risk factors and develop a personal prevention and wellness plan based on your unique health factors to ensure a healthy future.

What to Take with You

It’s a good idea to gather the following to take with you to your appointment:

  • Gather your medications including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, vitamins, supplements and herbal supplements; either write down the information or bring them along
  • Create a list of your health care providers that you see, including names and contact information
  • If you were provided with a health history form and health risk assessment in advance, make sure to complete the forms and bring them along to your appointment
  • Compile a list of questions and concerns to discuss with your health care professional

What to Expect

Prior to the visit, staff will call you to:

  • Complete a health-risk assessment, which is a questionnaire that documents your current health status, injury risks, risky behaviors, etc.
  • Create a list of your current providers and medications
  • Develop a written 5-10-year screening schedule

At the visit, your doctor will:

  • Check height, weight, blood pressure, and body mass index
  • Screen for cognitive impairment
  • Review risk factors for depression
  • Review functional ability such as screening for hearing impairments and risk of falling

Plan ahead of your annual wellness visit and be prepared to answer questions relating to the lists above. Just like a physical exam, even if you are in excellent health, the Medicare Wellness Visit is important to maintaining your health as it addresses any concerns early on. Schedule your Medicare Wellness Visit today!

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments

Diabetics: Have Your Pie and Stay Healthy Too!

Diabetics: Have Your Pie and Stay Healthy Too!

‘Tis the season when folks will be dashing from one holiday dinner to the next. The time of the year when overindulging on your favorite seasonal snacks and treats is never questioned, but rather encouraged.

However, for folks struggling with diabetes, the holiday meals and sweet desserts can be tempting, but downright dangerous.

So, with World Diabetes Day on November 14, Kim Jeffries, RN and Health Educator for Barbour Community Health Association, provided tips on how folks with diabetes can stay healthy and still enjoy the holiday feasts.

  1. Eat close to your usual time to keep your blood sugar steady. If your meal is served later than normal, eat a small snack at your usual time and eat a little less when dinner is served. Stay hydrated throughout the day!
  2. If invited to a party, offer to bring a healthy dish!
  3. If you have sweets, cut back on other carbs, like potatoes and bread during the next meal.
  4. It’s important that you do not skip meals! It will be harder to keep blood sugar under control, and you will be starving. It is hard to make good choices when you are starving, and it is tempting to overeat.
  5. Have pumpkin pie and not pecan. Even with whipped cream, the calories and sugar can be cut by one third.
  6. If it is a buffet, have a small plate of foods you like best and then move away from the buffet table. Start with veggies to take the edge off your appetite.
  7. Eat slowly. It takes 20 minutes for your brain to realize it is full.
  8. Avoid or limit alcohol. If you do drink, have it with food. Alcohol can lower blood sugar and interact with diabetes medicines.
  9. Check your blood sugar more often and ask your doctor if your medicines need to be adjusted for the season.
  10. No food is off limits. Choose dishes you really love and cannot get any other time of the year, like Mimi’s pecan log roll.
  11. Slow down and savor a small serving! Make sure to count it in your meal plan.
  12. Take time to be active. Staying active during the holidays helps your body use calories and reduce stress. The holidays are about spending time with loved ones, so take a nice stroll after your holiday meal.

The holiday season can be taxing, and for those with diabetes, this time of the year can be doubly stressful. But by taking these tips into consideration, you can enjoy the holidays and still maintain a healthy lifestyle.

For more information about assistance with managing your diabetes, call Kim at Belington Medical Clinic at (304) 823-2800 or Holly Holbert, RN and Health Educator at Myers Clinic at (304) 457-2800 in Philippi.

Get to Know our Personal Trainer Misty Bradley

At Barbour Community Health Association, we are committed to the total health and well-being of our patients and community, which is why we are so happy to be able to provide Personal Training services from our very own Misty Bradley.

Read More »
January 10, 2023 No Comments