REFINED FOODS INCREASE MACULAR DEGENERATION RISK

Regularly consuming refined foods such as sugary drinks, white bread, sugar cereals, French fries and chips significantly increases your risk for age-related macular degeneration—an eye disease leading to vision loss. If you want healthy eyes for a lifetime, choose fresh fruits, vegetables, whole-grain cereals/breads, legumes, whole-grain pasta and pasta with added soy protein.To read more about this, go to: www.wellsource.org/handouts/Glycemic_index_HO.pdf.

ANTIDEPRESSANTS MAY AFFECT BONE HEALTH

Taking antidepressants for extended times can increase the risk for weaker bones and fractures. Alternative therapies, such as talk therapy, have been found to be as effective as medication for depression control. A regular exercise program (at least 30 minutes moderate to vigorous daily exercise) can also be effective in decreasing depression. But don't stop taking antidepressants without first consulting a doctor. Some antidepressants may not be linked to bone health problems. To read more, go to: www.wellsource.org/handouts/Osteoporosis_handout.pdf

and www.wellsource.org/handouts/WC-Optimistic.pdf.

A LITTLE WEIGHT LOSS PROVIDES GREAT BENEFITS

If you are overweight, losing as little as 5–10 percent body weight may improve problems linked to being overweight. Practical weight loss steps include: setting reasonable goals, eating better, limiting portion sizes, increasing activity levels, eating high-quality breakfasts and packing careful lunches. To read more, go to: www.wellsource.org/handouts/Healthy_Weight.pdf.