March is National Nutrition Month and the perfect time explore the sodium we consume in our everyday diets. Sodium is an essential nutrient for our bodies, but most Americans are not aware they eat too much of it. Salt is a major source of sodium for humans. Saltiness is one of the chief human tastes, yet too much sodium can be detrimental to your health. 

[os-widget path=”/think-whole-person-healthcare/widget5″]

Much of our lives depends on our vision. With hardly a blink of an eye, we can see both far distances and closeup. Yet increasingly, new devices from computers and tablets to mobile phones and smart watches place a strain on our eyes. Prolonged use of up-close digital screens can cause more than just eyestrain. You may develop what’s called computer vision syndrome with symptoms of neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches and dry eyes.

To combat the negative effects of computer vision syndrome, take breaks to realign your vision by focusing on objects far away and then close again. This practice helps keep the muscles in your eyes limber. Regularly scheduled appointments with your eye care professional is another way to ensure good eye health. 

[os-widget path=”/think-whole-person-healthcare/widget4″]

A significant amount of our lives is spent walking. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average American worker spends more than 57% of their workday on their feet. By the end of the day, our feet can swell by as much as half a shoe size. 

Our feet are made of up 26 different bones. That’s roughly 25% of all our bones concentrated in a small area. In addition to the 26 bones there are 33 joints, 19 muscles and tendons and 107 different ligaments in our feet. When shopping for your next pair of shoes, consider the swelling of your feet as the day progress and keep in mind all of the working pieces of your feet. The amount of absorption, heel cushioning and arch support are all things to consider. A quick tip from the American Podiatric Medical Association is to skip the flip-flops altogether.

Test your knowledge of podiatry with our quiz!

[os-widget path=”/think-whole-person-healthcare/widget3″]

One in 10 Americans already has diabetes, a chronic health condition that directly affects how our bodies turn food into energy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that another 96 million Americans are prediabetic. More than 84% of these individuals do not know they are prediabetic, which can lead to lifelong diabetes. 

Diabetes symptoms can go unnoticed or not be present at all. This masking of symptoms causes about one in five people to not know they have high blood sugar. Diabetes is not curable; however, there are lifestyle changes that can help manage the disease. The most common treatment plans include taking insulin, controlling blood sugar and sticking to a healthy diet and exercise plan. 

How knowledgeable are you about diabetes? Start your quiz now!

[os-widget path=”/think-whole-person-healthcare/widget”]