From Fit Fathers to Lawn Safety,
Providence Offers Tips for Health

June 6, 2007

FIT FATHERS ADD FUN
Adding just a little activity to your day can make a big difference in your fitness level. Climbing stairs, weeding the garden, raking leaves, vacuuming, doing dishes and mowing the lawn can all help add up to a more active life style. In addition to household chores, try including activities that are more recreational and involve your kids as well. Tossing a ball around, playing catch with beanbags or working on your Frisbee flings can all provide great motivation for adding fun activity. You can also try taking a 10-minute walk around the block as a family. Your fitness level will increase - and so will your family fun.

TAKE CARE WHILE DOING LAWN CARE
Gardening is a great way to get physical activity, beautify the community, and grow nutritious fruits and vegetables. Yet without the proper safety steps, it can also be a way to sustain an injury. Each year, according to U.S. Consumer Product Safety commission, more than 60,000 gardeners nationwide go to emergency rooms because of injuries relating to lawn mowers and garden tractors. Providence doctors offer the following lawn and garden safety tips: dress appropriately for the task; make sure that safety devices on the equipment are in place and functioning properly before starting work; and never let a child ride or operate a garden tractor or riding mower, even if the child is supervised.

FIT FATHERS ADD FUN
There are many things we can do to make mealtime more heart-healthy. The easiest way to start is by choosing just one change. Eating more fruits and vegetables can be a great first step, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. Local farmers markets feature fresh leafy greens, luscious berries and other tasty treats. Try adding vegetables to salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. Season with lemon juice, vinegar, low-fat salad dressings and dips. And make sure to include dark green and orange vegetables every day. These simple tips from Providence nutrition experts can help you on your way to heart health.

SUNSHINE IS SERIOUS BUSINESS
That “healthy tan” might actually be hurting you. Providence dermatologists say if current trends continue, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during his or her lifetime. There will be more than 60,000 cases of melanoma diagnosed this year. Melanoma is the more lethal form of skin cancer - 8,110 people will die from it this year alone in the United States. Wearing sunscreen, avoiding the intensity of the midday sun and wearing a hat are just three of the tips that could keep you sun-safe this season.

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Providence Health System in Oregon, ranked as the sixth most integrated health care system in the nation, offers a comprehensive array of health and education services through its seven hospitals, medical clinics, health plans, long-term care facilities and home health services. With more than 15,000 employees, Providence is the state’s second-largest private employer.