Archive for March, 2012

Stretching has been ingrained in us as part of a necessary physical activity since elementary school PE class. This convenient exercise can be performed almost anywhere, from living room floors to office cubicles. As we age, our muscles naturally lose flexibility and mobility, increasing our need to stretch regularly. Some of the greatest benefits from stretching include a reduced chance of major joint replacement surgeries of the knees, hips, and shoulders. Stretching can decrease the risk of back injuries and workplace traumas like carpel tunnel, tendonitis, and tennis elbow. As if that’s not argument enough to get flexible, frequent stretching can even reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis or stiffness and pain in joints, the #1 cause of disability worldwide. Stretch at least 2-3 times a week, and always after exercising once muscles are warm. Click here to view stretching exercises for the workplace.

Rene L., 26 Dallas, TX

“I hadn’t gotten blood work done before, but I wanted to check the current status of my health.  I called Sterling Wellness to discuss what type of lab work I should get done to test all of my levels.  Jessica was a big help in explaining which tests I should run and what the results would tell me.  I ordered my labs at a location in Dallas, TX and was in and out in 10 minutes.  I got a call from Sterling 2 days later to go over the results with me to let me know what they meant.  Turns out everything’s great!  Couldn’t be more pleased with the results and how the process was handled.  It was very comforting to speak to someone about my results in the comfort of my home and who could answer all of my questions.  I highly recommend Sterling Wellness for lab work.”

Jessica Habetz is a Client Services Coordinator and Administrative Associate Team Leader for Sterling Wellness Solutions.

A: Our Direct Access Lab Testing is an extremely easy and affordable way to have lab work done. You can order lab work for numerous tests without visiting your physician. Confidential testing allows patients to keep lab results out of their medical records, and away from potential insurers. To order a test, simply log on to Sterling Wellness Solutions website, and click on the Sterling Labs tab. The testing categories are listed on the left hand side or you can enter search words in the search box in the upper right corner. Sample tests include general wellness panel, cardiovascular and cholesterol panel, prostate and thyroid testing, STD testing, liver and kidney function, and many more! Add the test you would like to order to the cart and proceed to secure checkout. After you checkout, print the order and bring it with you to any LabCorp in the U.S. and have blood work drawn. Some tests may require you to fast for 8-10 hours prior to getting screened. Results are printed in our central office and an experienced nurse or health coach will contact you with the results within 2-3 business days. A copy of your results can either be securely emailed or mailed directly to you. For more information about our Direct Access Lab Testing services call 1.800.838.0337 or visit our Sterling Labs page.

Our Direct Access Lab Testing is an extremely easy and affordable way to have lab work done. You can order lab work for numerous tests without visiting your physician. Confidential testing allows patients to keep lab results out of their medical records, and away from potential insurers. To order a test, simply log on to Sterling Wellness Solutions website, and click on the Sterling Labs tab. The testing categories are listed on the left hand side or you can enter search words in the search box in the upper right corner. Sample tests include general wellness panel, cardiovascular and cholesterol panel, prostate and thyroid testing, STD testing, liver and kidney function, and many more! Add the test you would like to order to the cart and proceed to secure checkout. After you checkout, print the order and bring it with you to any LabCorp in the U.S. and have blood work drawn. Some tests may require you to fast for 8-10 hours prior to getting screened. Results are printed in our central office and an experienced nurse or health coach will contact you with the results within 2-3 business days. A copy of your results can either be securely emailed or mailed directly to you. For more information about our Direct Access Lab Testing services call 1.800.838.0337 or visit our Sterling Labs page.

Support awareness by going blue

Early detection is the best way to prevent colon cancer. Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death due to cancer in America. The American Cancer Society recommends all people over the age of 50 get a colonoscopy every 10 years. Knowing your family history may determine if you need a colonoscopy before the age of 50. If you or someone in your immediate family has a history of inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, or digestive problems, a colonoscopy may be recommended at an earlier age. During a colonoscopy screening, the doctor is able to remove polyps or pre-cancerous lesions and send them off for a biopsy. Polyps are generally benign in early stages, but if left undetected, they may grow into cancer. If an abnormal test is returned, a patient may be asked to have a repeat colonoscopy in two to five years. For more information on colon cancer screenings, visit the Centers for Disease Control.

It may be no surprise to learn that the National Sleep Foundation claims over 60% of Americans suffer from poor sleep. Research proves that adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night for our bodies to adequately cycle through the 5 stages of sleep at least 3 to 5 times. The impact of inadequate sleep can lead to car accidents, suppressed immune system, marital problems, and irritability. In the workplace, sleep deprivation can lead to decreased creativity skills, frequent colds or sick days, and inability to cope with stress. You may be sleep deprived if you have trouble getting out of bed, fall asleep while watching TV, or get sleepy in meetings, lectures or while driving.

To get a good night of rest, avoid computer, TV, and phone screens at least 2-3 hours before bed. Limit your intake of caffeine after lunch, and avoid nicotine, alcohol and eating before bed. Finally, if you cuddle up to a restless sleeper or someone who snores, it may be affecting your sleep. This includes pets and children. If you suffer from serious prolonged sleep issues, consider visiting a sleep specialist. Click here for a list of accredited sleep disorder centers and physicians, and learn more tips for healthy sleep habits from the National Sleep Foundation.

Every March, we recognize National Nutrition Month, a nutrition campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s campaign focuses on creating a healthy plate by making informed food choices and developing physical activity habits:

Make half your plates fruits and veggies-  Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables during meals and snacks.

Switch to fat free or low fat milk- The calcium and vitamin content is the same as higher fat dairy products.

Be physically active- Move more. Find an activity you enjoy and log at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of exercise each week.

For more information visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or download this printable health tips sheet.