Carroll Hospital has launched a new Pre-Operative Patient Education program to educate patients on how best to prepare for an upcoming surgery.
Month: December 2017
Turkey Chili
Here’s a healthy chicken chili with all the robust flavor of a traditional beef chili without all the saturated fat! In addition to the fiber from zucchini and beans, there is an added dose of iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, niacin, copper, phosphorous, manganese, dietary protein and fiber from the addition of bulgur wheat. It’s a great one pot, hearty dish for a cold December day!
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Medical Misconception: Poisonous Poinsettias
Each month we set the facts straight regarding a popular health and wellness myth.
This month’s misconception: Poinsettias are poisonous.
Holiday decorations play a big part in what makes this time of year so special, and poinsettias are often one of the staples of the season. For years, we’ve been told that poinsettias are poisonous to people and pets … but is that really the case?
In a word: No.
In an interview with the United States Department of Agriculture, Kansas State University Extension Horticulture Expert Ward Upham explained that the plant is not poisonous to children or pets. He said research has shown that a 50-pound child would have to eat 500 to 600 leaves to feel any discomfort.
In 1975, the Consumer Product Safety Commission denied the request to put warning labels on poinsettias and mistletoe sprigs identifying them as poisonous. According to the commission’s website, “The Commission’s review of the technical literature dealing with the toxicity of these plants did not disclose a degree of risk that would warrant its taking regulatory action.”
However, the commission explained that the denial of the petition should not be “…construed as endorsement of the complete safety of these plants,” and recommended keeping them away from small children.
So decorate with poinsettias to your heart’s content this season!
Crispy Chicken Tenders
Sometimes that craving for chicken tenders just needs to be satisfied. But storebought frozen chicken tenders contain about 14 grams (54% of calories) of fat. Chicken strips from a fast food restaurant can be as much as 470 calories and 24 grams of fat per serving, while this recipe cuts the fat to 5 grams per serving … and they are super crispy and super easy to make!
Keeping the Pounds Off During the Holidays
In general, Americans tend to gain weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Why not start implementing some basic lifestyle changes now, not only to prevent unwanted weight gain, but to potentially lose weight! There’s no need to wait until after New Year’s to make that resolution. You can approach healthy holiday eating from three perspectives: before, during and after your meal.
Kale Artichoke Dip
So you’ve just received your fourth invitation to a holiday party, and you, of course, want to bring a memorable appetizer to share. There is nothing like a great tasting appetizer that’s also healthy. This one offers great flavor from the artichokes and Parmesan with a kick of spice from the garlic and cayenne (the recipe says it’s optional but I highly suggest adding it!). Blended with the creamy low fat cream cheese and yogurt, this warm low fat dip, which is high in Vitamin A, is sure to be a welcomed addition to the appetizer table at any gathering.
Holiday Grief
For many who have recently lost a loved one, the thought of the upcoming holiday season is a lot to bear. Remembering past celebrations with your loved one can bring you both happiness and pain, and thinking about what the holidays would have been like if your loved one were here can also be difficult.
Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are to die for, and seriously, they are healthy too! Well, as healthy as a chocolate chip cookie gets! By using half the fat of a traditional chocolate chip cookie and adding low fat yogurt and oats, this version comes in at only 83 calories and 4 grams of fat. They are moist and full of chocolate flavor. Try using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips to boost your antioxidants.