Purpose Vitamin K is essential for the proper formation of blood clots in the body. The K in vitamin K, which was discovered by a Danish scientist, comes from the Danish word "koagulering" which means clotting. The liver makes a protein called prothrombin, which is a vital link in the coagulation process. Vitamin K is the forerunner of prothrombin and...

Purpose The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. However, it is not just a simple tube. The lower esophagus has a specialized muscle around it that usually stays tightly close, opening only to allow food and liquid into the stomach. It acts to prevent the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Symptoms occur...

Purpose Diseases of the heart and blood vessels are the number one cause of death in United States. People with hypertension, or high blood pressure, are more likely to develop these diseases. Therefore, is important to try to lower elevated blood pressure. Hypertension cannot be cured in most cases. It can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes and or medication. Reducing...

100 Calorie Snack Ideas Half an apple with two teaspoons of peanut butter. An orange and a few dry roasted nuts. 10 cashew nuts. 10 almonds. Two ounces of lean roast beef. Half a small avocado. Three ounces of cooked, whole-grain noodles with one fresh tomato and a half ounce of hard cheese. One seven grain Belgian waffle. Four...

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. Use this calculator for adults 20 years old and older.   To calculate body mass for children and teens 2 to 19...

Tips on Reading Labels If it says It meansFat FreeLess than .05g fat per servingLow Fat3g or less fat per servingReduced Fat or Less FatAt least 25% less fat per servingSaturated Fat FreeLess than .05g saturated fat per servingLow Saturated Fat1g or less and no more than 15% of calories from saturated fat per servingReduced or Less Saturated Fat At...

Balance is the key to weight management and good nutrition. Whether you are interested in losing, gaining or maintaining your weight, setting a realistic personal goal for yourself and writing it down can help. Fast Food Fast food may not offer the healthiest options. The good news is that many restaurants are now adding healthier options to their menu. We have...

You and your family members can live longer than ever due to modern technology, medical innovations and healthier lifestyles. Your family physician is the person who, more than any other, uses these tools to improve your health and advise you on future wellness. Diets Balance is the key to weight management and good nutrition. Whether you're interested in losing, gaining, or...