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Motion is Lotion: How Exercise Can Help Mitigate and Prevent Joint Pain

Isaiah on August 7, 2023

Joint pain can make even the simplest tasks difficult. Even making a fist or climbing stairs can become challenging. Frequently, many people mistakenly believe that physical activity has become too difficult and could cause the pain to become even worse. However, sometimes the opposite is true. The more your joints move, the more natural lubrication they receive to remain healthy and cause you less pain.

Of course, some exercises are better for joint pain than others. For example, long runs will likely cause wear and tear to your joints. But low-impact exercises like walking and swimming are a win-win: not only will you be able to remain active and alleviate pain, but also improve the lubrication of your joints.

For most people who live with joint pain, these low-impact exercises are smart, proven options. You can also check out Humana Neighborhood Centers or your local Senior Centers.

Biking

Biking – either indoor or outdoor – is an excellent exercise for those who suffer from joint pain or want to avoid developing it. This activity is low impact (meaning, less stress on the joints) and can also stimulate the muscles. This can help to decrease pain while stimulating motion and mobility. Biking can help build up your quadriceps, which can help alleviate pressure and pain if you have bad knees. Start out slow and eventually work your way up to 30-minute sessions on the bike.

Strength Training

One of the goals of exercising when you have joint pain is to build up the muscles around those joints. Strength training can help increase the capacity of the muscles surrounding the joints and stabilize them which can result in less pain. Talk to your doctor or a trainer or physical therapist before starting and ask them what the most appropriate training routine will be for you.

Elliptical Machines

Elliptical machines are a low-impact alternative to running and jogging.

They provide both high intensity interval training and steady-state cardio workouts. These aerobic workouts can strengthen your heart, lungs, and muscles which can help build your stamina and endurance. Ellipticals go easy on your joints, and simultaneously build muscles in your legs, which can help lower knee and ankle pain.

While taking steps to improve your health, it’s also a good idea to protect your loved ones. NCRGEA and AMBA have an excellent Whole Life policy that guarantees acceptance – even if you smoke or have weight issues. There isn’t even a health exam! Joining is easy: you can purchase your policy online. Sign up now for a Whole Life Policy through NCRGEA and AMBA at www.AMBAlifeinsurance.com/NCRGEA or call (800)-956-1228.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27386811/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/elliptical-machines/faq-20058294#:~:text=Using%20an%20elliptical%20machine%20is,joint%20pain%20due%20to%20arthritis.

Osteoporosis Disease Affects 10,000,000 Americans — Many Don’t Even Know It

Isaiah on August 4, 2023

You know that old saying when your intuition is telling you something is wrong, “I can feel it in my bones”? All too frequently, when it comes to osteoporosis disease, many people aren’t even aware of the problem until they suffer an injury.

Osteoporosis: “The Silent Disease”

It is known as a “silent disease” because it’s common for people to be unaware of their bones getting weaker and to not suffer any symptoms until they break a bone in an unusual way, such as a minor fall, lifting something, or even coughing or sneezing.

Osteoporosis, a disease that thins and weakens the bones, affects approximately 10 million Americans aged 50 and up. Women are four times more likely than men to be afflicted by it. According to researchers, about 2 million broken bones every year are caused because of the disease.

A similar but less severe disease known as osteopenia affects 43 million Americans. This condition occurs when the body has a lower-than-normal volume of minerals like calcium and phosphorus. As a result, their bodies are unable to make new bone as quickly as it reabsorbs old bone. Although people with osteopenia still have enough bone density that the condition won’t cause fractures or breaks, the condition can progress to osteoporosis.

To keep bones strong and reduce the risks of weakening:

  • Eat a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D
  • Get regular aerobic exercise such as walking, hiking, and stair climbing
  • Engage in additional anaerobic exercises like light weightlifting to strengthen muscles as well as balance exercises including Pilates or yoga
  • Don’t smoke

Unfortunately, if you do have osteoporosis, an injury can happen anytime, anywhere. You could break a bone at home in your kitchen while getting off a step stool, while you’re enjoying a walk with friends in your neighborhood, or while you’re away on vacation by lifting a suitcase. But you may need immediate emergency medical transportation to the emergency room, and an emergency ambulance or airlift can cost thousands of dollars.

It’s smart to be prepared. Whether you’re home or away, Medical Air Services Association (MASA) covers emergency medical transportation. MASA will cover your ambulance or emergency airlift, and services are paid in full, with no deductibles, co-pays, or dollar limits. NCRGEA and AMBA make getting a MASA plan easy. Learn more at ambamedtransport.com/ncrgea or call 800-956-1228.

Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21855-osteopenia

August’s Reader Recipe: Dijon Crab Spaghetti

Isaiah on August 1, 2023

As we get through the Dog Days of Summer, this recipe provides a refreshing flavor, healthy nutrients, and a creamy, balanced sauce. The secret weapons that make this dish unique are the teaspoon of Dijon added to the sauce and the juicy segments of tangerine. Thai chili brings a touch of heat, while The fresh crab is augmented with mint, basil, and parsley. Depending on your palate, the Thai chili can bring just the right amount of spiciness.

You can add a crispy bread crumb mixture to go on top, made of bread crumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder and lemon zest.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces fresh jumbo lump crabmeat
  • 1/2 cup tangerine segments
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 2 cups cooked spaghetti (from 3 ounces uncooked spaghetti), chilled
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
  • 1 small fresh Thai chili, minced
  • 1/4 cup trout roe (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk Dijon, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, sherry vinegar, and salt in a large bowl until creamy.
  2. Add spaghetti, basil, parsley, mint, and Thai chili to vinaigrette. Stir until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
  3. Add crabmeat and tangerine segments. Gently stir until well combined.
  4. Cover and chill 10 minutes.
  5. (Optional) Garnish with trout roe.

Have a recipe you’d like to share?

NCRGEA is compiling a Digital Holiday Dessert collection of recipes for 2023! If you have a dessert recipe you’d like to share, Submit A Dessert here by October 10, 2023.

After Teaching for 75 years, Teacher Retires on Her 95th Birthday

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

Talk about making the grade! When it comes to remarkable teaching careers, Grace Adkins definitely has earned an A+. Grace Adkins began her teaching career when she was just a junior in high school. Now, for her 95th birthday, she has given herself the perfect birthday gift: retirement!

Adkins was first hired in 1976 by Westwood Schools and has also taught at Deerfield Academy. Throughout the decades, Adkins philosophy remained consistent: to ensure that each student received the most effective education by accommodating each student with the tools that would work best for them.

“I never say a child can’t learn. I find out how they learn and I don’t give up,” she says.

Strong Teaching = Successful Students

Her determination and tenacity have paid off for the children who were her students. For example, one former student struggled with ADHD and dyslexia, but Adkins worked hard and created a roadmap for success with him and his parents.

“We had an educational prescription that we filled – and his parents filled at home –  and he didn’t give up. His family didn’t give up. And we didn’t give up. And so there he is,” Adkins said. He is now a vascular surgeon.

“And of course, I have many others, too, that you wonder if they’re going to make it. But you keep on working with them every day. And… they make it. Big time!”

Many of her students praised the longtime teacher for her dedication and compassion. One said, “She really truly wants to change students’ lives, and she did,” one of her former students says. “She changed my life.”

Not only will she not be forgotten by her former students, but Adkins legacy will also live on. The Learning Lab that she founded at Westwood Schools will continue under the guidance of other teachers.

On her final day, her Westwood Schools student sang happy birthday to her in honor of her special day. Adkins was so moved by the appreciation and love that the students began to cry.

But just because she’s retiring from teaching, that doesn’t mean that Adkins is going to slow down! She not only gets up at 3am every morning and stays fit by riding her bike for a total of 100 miles a week, she also keeps her mind active by reading up to 40 books a year!

Examples like Adkins’ is another proof why teaching is often ranked as one of the most rewarding professions. There is no greater sense of reward for a teacher than to see their students succeed. Passing on knowledge to the next generation to achieve their goals is truly a fulfilling experience for them. Congratulations on 75 years of giving your students your best!

Attention all Retirement Eligible state-employed teachers! We have some exciting news for you. NCRGEA has benefits that you may be eligible to receive TODAY. Sign up to become a Member and discuss your options with our Benefits Specialists.

www.ncrgea.com/benefits/

Have a Blizzard of Debt? See if the Snowball or Avalanche Method Is Right for You

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

Most people have more than one source of debt. From credit card balances to your mortgage to your auto loan, getting a full scope of what you owe is important. In addition to the impact to your financial health, your mental health can also suffer. The stress and worry can lead to high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, ulcers, and worse. The deeper you get into debt, the more likely it is that your health will be impacted.

A common practice to take control and manage what you owe is to plan to pay the minimum each month on each debt and put extra money towards one debt. Once you’ve paid that one off, you can then turn your attention to the next bill.

There are two popular methods to where you make that additional payment: The Snowball or The Avalanche Method.

The Snowball Method

Like a snowball rolling down a hill, The Snowball Method starts small and builds momentum. Many people favor it because it’s simple, helps them feel motivated, and shows tangible accomplishments quickly. This method focuses on the smallest debts and eliminates them quickly. Once your smallest debt is paid off, you then progress to the next smallest.

You don’t reduce the amount you’re contributing to your debt payments. Instead, you’re redirecting the total amount from the first debt to the next. Your payments don’t decrease as you go through your list, but your list becomes smaller and smaller.

The Avalanche Method

The advantage of this approach is you focus on paying off the debts with the highest interest rates so, in the long run, you save more money. Create a list of your debts from highest interest rate to the lowest. Plan to make minimum payments on all your debts, as well as an additional amount toward the first debt on your list.

Once you’ve paid off your highest-interest rate debt, move onto the second highest. Continue until your debts are all paid. 

Keeping control of your finances is important. That’s why NCRGEA and AMBA offer a Tax-Deferred Asset Protection Plan. Annuities are a smart and safe way to diversify your savings. You can potentially earn much more interest than CDs or savings accounts. Plus, annuities have excellent advantages, including tax-deferred accumulation of interest, a guaranteed competitive interest rate, multiple payout options, and a nursing home waiver. Get more info at ncrgea.com/benefits or 800-956-1228.

Source: https://www.debt.org/advice/10-mistakes-getting-out-of-debt/

Do Sunglasses Really Help Keep Your Eyes Healthy?

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen to protect our skin from prolonged exposure to the sun. What many people don’t realize or neglect to do is to take an equal amount of precaution to protect their eyes. Sunglasses are more than just a cool fashion statement or way to keep the sun out of your eyes on bright days.

Four Reasons To Wear Sunglasses More Often

1) You Immediately See the Difference

From the moment you put them on, sunglasses provide instant relief from the sun’s brightness and glare. Polarized lenses cut down on the sun’s harsh glare.

And it’s not just the sun’s intense rays that sunglasses protect your eyes from. As a physical barrier, sunglasses protect from wind, blowing dust, sand, and other airborne debris that could irritate your eyes and even scratch the cornea, which could cause permanent damage.

2) Protection Against Ultra-Violet Rays

In rain or shine, the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays are always present every day of the year. In fact, water, snow, and car windshields can reflect light into the eyes. So, if you’re in a car, on a boat, or around snow you’re getting a double dose of UV rays on a sunny day – the direct exposure from the sun and a second exposure from the reflected light.

It doesn’t matter how dark or the color of the lenses of the sunglasses. The most important thing is that they block 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. A pair of high-quality sunglasses t can make the difference between enjoying a pleasant outdoor activity or damaging your eyes.

3) Prevent Sun-Related Eye Disease

Daily exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays over the course of years will significantly increase your risk for developing cataracts, macular degeneration, or other eye conditions. The sun’s rays can also cause eye cancer and a condition called pterygium, a growth of excess tissue on the eyeball. Fortunately, there’s a simple, convenient way to reduce the risk whenever you’re outside: wear sunglasses.

4) Avoid Headaches or Migraines

The sun’s bright light can trigger people who suffer from migraines or painful headaches. Wearing a high-quality pair of sunglasses that blocks out the sun’s light and protects your eyes is an effective, proven deterrent.

Select sunglasses with dark, high-quality lenses if you’re prone to such headaches.

How To Look and See Your Best

Sunglasses are an essential part of summer and lifelong health! If you need a new pair, then the Vision Plan from NCRGEA and AMBA is perfect for you. The plan has so many benefits for members, including coverage for a wide variety of sunglasses that look great and offer all of the protective elements you need to keep seeing your best for years to come! The plan covers an annual WellVision exam, 100% coverage for most lenses, even progressives, and thousands of nationwide in-network providers. Plus, the plan has NO WAITING PERIOD for covered services. Members, sign up today – www.AMBAdentalvision.com/ncrgea#vision or call 800-956-1228.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24798334/

https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2266015

Bizarre Dental Injuries That Happened to the Rich and Famous

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

Action film stars are no strangers to physical injuries. From minor slips to severe injuries, even the best precautions aren’t always able to prevent an accident. Still, these examples of the rich and famous losing their teeth can be a healthy reminder that accidents and injuries can happen to all of us, and dental emergencies can occur suddenly when you least expect it.

In The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Viggo Mortensen played Aragorn. While filming a fight scene for The Two Towers, Mortensen was hit in the face with a poorly aimed sword. His front tooth cracked. However, being a consummate professional, he simply picked the piece up and asked the crew to superglue it back into his mouth. He then continued with the scene.

Daniel Craig had two of his front teeth knocked out while filming Casino Royale, his first James Bond movie. Of course, the legendary James Bond can’t have a gap in his front teeth, so they flew Craig’s dentist in from London to replace Craig’s teeth as soon as possible.

Charlize Theron cracked two of her back teeth when training for her role in Atomic Blonde. According to her, the teeth cracked because she was clenching them while she was fighting, and the injury required surgery before shooting could start.

Perhaps the most bizarre example of all is when, during the filming of the 1972 classic Deliverance (1972), screenwriter James Dickey and film director John Boorman got into an on-set fistfight. Dickey broke Boorman’s nose and knocked out some of his teeth.

What Should You Do If You Knock Out a Tooth?

Having a tooth knocked out of your mouth can be a serious injury. For one thing, the sockets will all require a root canal since the nerves and blood vessels cannot be restored. However, the teeth can reattach to the bone when you put them back in.

Although it’s easier to save a tooth for children than adults, it’s still possible.

If you should have a tooth knocked out, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to avoid potential additional damage.

Follow these tips to increase the chances of saving a tooth:

  • When handling the tooth, avoid getting your hands on the part of the tooth that would normally be under the gum because it can be very fragile and break.
    • To make sure the tooth stays clean, rinse it with milk or water.
    • It is important to keep the tooth wet. If you can’t place it in milk, you can place it between your cheek and gum.
    • Sometimes, the tooth can be slipped back into its socket. Make sure it’s facing the right way. If it doesn’t fit, be sure not to force it.
    • No matter what, get to the dentist as soon as you can!

A tooth cracking or getting knocked out can hurt, but frequently the expense of a dental procedure is just as painful. Fortunately, NCRGEA and AMBA offer an excellent Dental Plan that covers many procedures and features low deductibles and high maximums. This plan lets you see out-of-network providers and gives even bigger savings when you see one of our 400,000+ nationwide in-network providers. Sign up as a Member today – No Open Enrollment Period, benefits at Signup.  www.AMBAdentalvision.com/ncrgea or call 800-956-1228.

Heading for the Great Outdoors? Get In On Savings 💰 with AMBA Discounts

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

Summertime health and fitness is synonymous with outdoor pursuits like golfing, cycling, or hiking. From great gear to wearable tech, AMBA Discounts has you covered with amazing discounts and promotions.

Hurley Bikes

Hurley understands that, for many, biking is more than just a hobby – it’s a way of life. That’s why the team at Hurley is committed to providing customers with the best possible products to enhance their passion and excitement for cycling. Whether you’re looking for a road bike, mountain bike, or hybrid bike, Hurley has the perfect option for you. Plus, they also carry biking accessories including helmets, gloves, and bike locks, to ensure that you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable ride.

AMBA Discounts offer: 30% off plus free shipping.

Garmin

From the driving range to the final putt, Garmin has made groundbreaking advances in the game of golf. Garmin’s devices include Golf Watches, Launch Monitors, and Simulators, and Range Finders. Whether you’re just enjoying the game or want to shave strokes from your handicap, Garmin’s devices will put you on course for new lows with the insights and data you need to play your best – no matter your age or skill level.

AMBA Discounts offer: 20% off select Garmin wearables and accessories.

Adidas

Adidas’s mission is to be the best sports brand in the world. Their hiking boots and shoes provide the fit, traction and comfort needed to keep putting one foot in front of the other all day long. No matter if you’re climbing to the summit or taking a leisurely hike, Adidas has the perfect hiking shoes – including the award-winning Terrex line – as well as clothes and accessories to crush every hike.

There are so many more savings to explore, like clothing, entertainment, shopping, and car rentals. Best of all, your membership is absolutely FREE. Register for your AMBA Discounts secret activation code now. Already have an account? Start browsing by visiting www.passportcorporate.com.

Celebrate Summer with our Peach Blueberry Smoothie Bowl Recipe

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

If your summers are loaded with BBQ’s, get-togethers, and a little over-indulging, you probably need to add more nutrition to your diet. Smoothies are a great way to start every day. They’re not only delicious, but also a quick and easy way to ensure you get the recommended daily fruit and veggies and are packed with extra vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber.

This Peach Blueberry Smoothie Bowl is the perfect combo! It’s simple to make yet has a complex flavor and it includes local peaches!! Plus, it’s vegan, and allergy friendly. (If you have a nut allergy, simply remove the nut butter or substitute with your favorite nut-substitute option). This recipe is for one serving.

Ingredients

Servings

  • 1 cup frozen blueberries
  • 2 fresh peaches
  • 2 tablespoons nut butter 
  • 1⁄4 cup coconut milk
  • 1 banana 
  • 1⁄4 cup granola 
  • Add ½ tsp of flax seed which may improve cardiovascular health, support digestive health, and support weight management

Instructions

  1. Blend blueberries, 1/4 of the banana, nut butter, 1 peach, and coconut in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and well mixed.
  2. Slice the remaining banana and dice extra peach.
  3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl. Top with banana, peach, and granola.
  4. Serve and enjoy!

Have a recipe you’d like to share?

NCRGEA is compiling a Digital Holiday Dessert collection of recipes for 2023! If you have a dessert recipe you’d like to share, Submit A Dessert here by September 30, 2023.

Sandy and Ellie’s Excellent Adventure: Two 81-Year-Olds Travel the World in 80 Days

Isaiah on July 3, 2023

Sandy Hazelip and Ellie Hambry wanted to do something special to celebrate their 80th birthdays. When Sandy proposed a unique adventure for their milestones, her friend was immediately thrilled with the idea: to travel the world in 80 days for their 80th birthday.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have stalled the two friends’ whirlwind trip, but only briefly. After all, the two met in Zambia 23 years ago while on a medical mission and have been sharing journeys and adventures ever since.

Starting Their Journey

So, on January 11, 2023, at the age of 81 years old, the pair departed their Dallas, Texas homes and began their journey. First stop: Antarctica.

In a mere 80 days, their itinerary allowed the two to experience the northern lights of Lapland at the North Pole, a sleigh ride pulled by huskies in Finland, a hot air balloon ride in Egypt, camel rides in the deserts of Africa, the awesome ancient structures of Rome, a two-day ship ride across the treacherous Drake Passage, where 20-foot waves rocked their boat, and searching for wallabies in Australia.

The two documented their journey on their social media platforms and quickly gained thousands of affectionate and amazed followers. Many – including a fan in Rwanda and another in Colorado – invited them to visit them and stay at their homes. As the Rwandan wrote, “You 2 are amazing!”

Hazelip laughs when recalling her family’s reaction to their social media popularity. Her grandchildren would comment on her social media updates, “There’s my grandmother having fun!”

“We’re not wanting our comfort zone. We’re wanting an adventure,” Hamby explained. “We were together 80 days 24/7, and it’s just really made us even closer than we were.”

In fact, the two enjoyed their travels so much their even planning another! Hazelip revealed, “We are planning another trip! Something when we’re 82 in 2024. We’ve got some ideas about where we’re going and what we’re going to do, so you just need to stay tuned for the next adventure because it’s going to happen!”

Whether you plan on taking on an adventure and traveling the world or staying close to home, getting a Medical Air Services Association (MASA) plan is a smart idea. All too frequently, people are shocked when they receive huge bills for emergency medical transportation. MASA can protect you from catastrophic financial loss when emergencies arise at home or while traveling by covering your ambulance or airlift, regardless of your age or medical condition. Services are paid in full, with no deductibles, co-pays or dollar limits. MASA provides global coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. NCRGEA and AMBA make getting a MASA plan easy. You can even sign up online. Learn more at www.AMBAmedtransport.com/NCRGEA or call 800-956-1228.

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