November 2009 Newsletter
COPD Awareness Month
In honor of COPD Awareness Month, we are participating in two separate events, held on November 12th and 19th. Please stop by and visit us at any of these events. All are welcome.
- November 12th: Informational session in recognition of the 8th Annual World COPD Day from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Patient Resource Library (across from the 3rd floor cafeteria) at Faulkner Hospital.
- November 19th: Great American Smoke-Out in the lobby of Brigham and Women’s Hospital. All Day.
What Can Chronic Lung Disease Patients Do About the H1N1 Virus?
(www.goldcopd.org)
Many COPD and other Chronic Lung Disease patients are concerned about the new H1N1 influenza virus, sometimes called “swine flu.” Here are some steps to protect yourself from this illness:
1.) Get vaccinated The H1N1 vaccine is separate from the regular seasonal influenza vaccine. Talk to your doctor or local health department to find out about vaccine availability and recommendations. Be sure to discuss the vaccine with your Pulmonologist and/or your Primary Care Physician PRIOR to getting vaccinated. They are the only people who can tell you if the vaccine is an appropriate step for you to take.
2.) Wash your hands! Practice good hygiene. Frequently wash your hands, use hand sanitizer, stay out of crowded settings whenever possible, and stay away from people who may be ill.
3.) Take your medications as directed. Don’t change your dosage or take additional medications unless your doctor advises you to do so.
4.) Keep your lungs healthy by staying active, eating right, and getting enough rest.
5.) Make a plan. Talk to your doctor and know what to do if your breathing gets worse.
6.) If you think you might have H1N1 and have some symptoms such as a high fever, cough, and sore throat:
· Continue your usual COPD treatment.
· Talk to your doctor about what other actions to take. If possible, call before traveling to the doctor’s office to see if a visit is necessary.
· Get plenty of rest and fluids.
· Practice good hygiene and stay home as much as possible to help prevent passing the virus to others.
Chromium
Chromium has many benefits. It can be useful in the treatment of diabetes and may be protective against cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. Some good sources of Chromium include: brewer’s yeast, lean beef, potato with skin, oysters, buckwheat, broccoli, whole grains, and molasses. Here is a recipe to try that is packed with Chromium:
Broccoli and Corn Quiche
(www.foodanddiet.com)
Ingredients:
· 1 nine inch pie crust (deep dish works best)
· 2 cups broccoli flowerets
· 2/3 cup corn kernels
· 2 tsp. Olive oil
· 1 small onion (minced)
· 3 Tbs. parsley
· 1/4 tsp. Salt
· 1/4 tsp. Black or white pepper
· 3 medium eggs (beaten)
· 3/4 cup non-fat cottage cheese
Directions:
1.) Preheat oven to 375°.
2.) Parboil broccoli and corn in lightly salted water until barely cooked (about 4 minutes); drain immediately.
3.) Heat oil in small frying pan over medium heat; add onion; cook until onion is soft.
4.) Stir in drained vegetables, parsley, salt, and pepper; remove from heat and set aside.
5.) Combine eggs and cottage cheese in mixing bowl.
6.) Arrange vegetable in the pie shell; pour egg mixture over vegetables.
7.) Set pie pan on cookie sheet and place in center rack of oven; bake for about 30 minutes until filling is set and golden.
8.) Remove from oven; let stand 5 minutes before cutting; serve while hot.
Nutrition:
Yield: 8 servings; Calories: 184; Fat: 9 g