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Cancer affects millions of lives worldwide. Though medical advancement has done a great deal to increase the human lifespan, proper nutrition has also been proven to help in the prevention of cancer. As researchers continue their hunt for a cure, there is a lot of information out there to support the argument that nutrition is an essential component in disease prevention and management. Nutrition Services: To learn more, call us at 775-982-4000 Linking Diet and Cancer Risk Evidence shows that our diets impact our vulnerability to cancer – and our ability to fight it. The American Cancer Society states that at least 18% of all cancers in the United States are related to excess body weight, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and/or poor nutrition. (American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity | American Cancer Society). Sure, genetics can contribute, but research continues to support the belief that following a healthy diet can reduce the likelihood of developing cancer in the first place. Renown Health’s Jessica Blauenstein, MS, RDN, LDN, CSO, Registered Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition confirms the importance of a nutritious diet consisting of: Fruits and Vegetables: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables provides large amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Nutrient-rich, they help in fighting off oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are factors for developing cancer. Whole Grains: A diet rich in grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats, contains substantial amounts of fiber that helps in digestion. A few studies have shown that whole grains might offer some protection against colorectal cancer. Lean Proteins: Reducing the amount of red and processed meats in the diet by substituting lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, beans and lentils may lower the risk of developing cancer. Red and processed meats have been associated with colorectal and other cancers when consumed in large amounts. Healthy Fats: Begin focusing on healthy fats from foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats are anti-inflammatory, which may play a beneficial role in disease prevention. Avoidance of Sugar and Processed Foods: Sugar and foods high in processed ingredients have been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It's important to limit the intake of sugary drinks, candy and snacks in the battle against cancer. A Role of Nutrition in Cancer Recovery Nutrition becomes even more critical for individuals who receive treatment and are in recovery. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery can take a lot out of a body, affecting appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption. Proper nutrition during and after treatment can help: Support Immune Function: A good, balanced diet will provide the essential nutrients that support a resilient immune system, which is important in fighting off infections and supporting overall health during cancer treatment. Maintain Strength and Energy Levels: Proper caloric intake, protein and micronutrients prevent muscle wasting and fatigue, allowing patients to sustain their strength and energy. Address Side Effects: Certain foods and diets can help reduce or alleviate some common side effects associated with cancer treatment, including nausea, vomiting and mucositis. Eating small, frequent meals, maintaining good hydration, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can all ease treatment-related discomfort associated with the GI tract. Facilitate Healing and Recovery: Nutrient-rich foods promote healing and the repair of tissues that may be damaged after surgery or other medical interventions. Foods high in proteins, vitamins and minerals play a significant role in repairing and replacing damaged tissues and cells. Correct Nutritional Deficiencies: Cancer and its treatment cause vitamin D, vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies in the diet. Nutrition therapy through a registered dietitian or nutritionist can identify those deficiencies and help manage them through dietary changes or supplementary means. Related information: Nourishing Your Loved One Through Cancer Treatment

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Chances are you or someone you know will deal with chronic pain at some point in life. In fact, in the U.S. alone, one in five adults have experienced chronic pain in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The road to relief is a frequently traveled one that can be filled with twists and turns, so it’s important for patients to have a trusted provider by their side navigating that journey.  We interviewed Dr. Sharlene Su, a pain management physician with Renown Medical Group, who told us what patients can expect when seeking care with Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management (RSSPM) and all about the variety of pain relief options available to patients.  What pain management treatment options are available outside of painkillers? This depends on someone’s root cause of pain. For example, for pain from arthritis of the spine or major joints, radiofrequency ablation can relieve most of the pain for six months to two years, which can be life changing. If someone is suffering from a pinched nerve in the neck or back, an epidural can be useful. Nerve stimulators can also be a great option to relieve pain for years. One of the advantages of the procedures we perform at RSSPM is that they reduce the need for painkillers, which are notorious for having side effects of their own. Physical therapy can also be a very helpful tool to treat pain.  It is an exciting time in the field of pain medicine right now because new advances are -constantly being made. At Renown, we pride ourselves on staying current with the most cutting-edge treatments to ensure our patients always have the best available to them.  What are some at-home tips and tricks that patients experiencing pain can do on their own for some relief? If pain is related to posture or physical activity, consider doing stretching and strengthening exercises. YouTube can be a great (and free) resource for this. In terms of medications, over the counter topical pain creams can be great. Tylenol is one of the safest pain medications for those without preexisting liver conditions. On a short-term basis, anti-inflammatory medications can often be used safely depending on one’s overall health. Ice and heat can both be useful for treating muscle pain.  Can you tell us more about the services Renown Spine, Sports & Pain Management offers? Our team specializes in identifying the root cause of each patient’s pain and partnering with them to develop a custom plan tailored to their individual needs, which can involve injections, physical therapy and medications. We treat patients ranging from top-level athletes, to weekend warriors, to grandparents who’d like to be able to keep up with their grandkids. Once we relieve a patient’s pain, our role then transforms into a coach, educating and guiding our patients on how to prevent their pain from coming back.  At RSSPM, you’ll see the same doctor every time, which means that your provider will get to know you very well, and you’ll receive the same high-quality consistent care whenever you come for a visit.  Renown has a unique pain management team called “Special Procedures” that not many people may realize is a great option for care. How does this team treat pain? Our Special Procedures team is crucial to the high-quality pain management care that we provide. We have an amazing staff that assists with X-ray guided procedures including epidurals, radiofrequency ablations, joint injections and nerve stimulators. Dr. Casey Keating, our division chief, and I work with this team to ensure that every procedure is done with the same precision, attention to detail and quality. The Special Procedures team regularly receives feedback from patients on how well taken care of they felt during their procedure.  If someone is experiencing pain from an injury or even an unknown reason, what should they do to get care for their concerns? Contact your primary care provider for a referral to have an evaluation with us! RSSPM accepts most insurance plans and are proud that our wait times are averaging less than one week to be seen as a new patient. Two more doctors will be joining us in the next few months, which should reduce our wait times even more.  There are so many targeted and effective ways to treat pain nowadays, and it is worth addressing to live the life you want to live.

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Why are timely vaccinations important? Childhood vaccinations are scheduled and vaccines are administered when young bodies require immediate protection or need to build immunity for diseases and illnesses we may encounter throughout our lives. Delaying recommended vaccinations puts children at higher risk for diseases that can affect them more harshly, like pertussis (whooping cough), which is especially dangerous for babies. Vaccination Benefits Vaccinations save the lives of 1,000s of children (and adults) every year Vaccinations protect us from illnesses that can lead to cancer, hospital stays, life-long health issues & even death Vaccinations help protect those who receive the vaccines and, through herd immunity, also help protect the unvaccinated and seniors whose immunity may have waned. What’s the recommended vaccine schedule for children? In the U.S., we follow the CDC’s vaccine schedule for children and teens up to 18 years of age. The schedule also provides notes regarding missed or late vaccine doses and how to properly “catch-up.” If your child is missing one of the vaccinations listed below, is not quite on-schedule with the recommended timeline or you have any questions regarding vaccines or timings, please reach out to your child’s provider. Vaccine Schedule Birth to 4 Years: Birth – First vaccine for hepatitis B and may receive respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)* vaccine 2, 4 & 6 months of age – Vaccines/boosters for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (DTaP), polio (IPV), haemophilus influenza type B (HiB), pneumonia, hepatitis B and rotavirus 6 months to 4 years of age – COVID-19 vaccine, 1-2 doses* 1 year of age – First dose of measles, mumps, rubella with varicella for chicken pox (MMRV) vaccine and boosters for hepatitis A, HiB and pneumonia 15 months of age – 4th dose of DTaP 18 months of age – 2nd dose of hepatitis A 4 years of age – Final dose of MMRV, TDaP and IPV vaccines *Conditions apply. See your child’s provider.  Vaccine Schedule 5 Years & Older: CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also recommend the following vaccine schedule for children as they grow: Prior to starting middle school – TDaP and meningitis vaccines/boosters 9-12 years of age – AAP suggests children (and those up to 26 years of age who have not been adequately vaccinated) receive the HPV vaccine to help protect against developing certain cancers as adults Children up to 18 years of age & adults – COVID-19 vaccines are recommended, especially for those with medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes For more vaccination information, please refer to the CDC recommended child and adolescent immunization schedule. Any tips on preparing my child for a vaccination? Many parents worry about side effects like pain and fever for their children after getting vaccinations. Studies have shown that giving Tylenol prior to vaccines can decrease their effectiveness. That’s why providers recommend parents and caregivers wait until after vaccines are administered before giving Tylenol or Ibuprofen, and then only if symptoms develop. Do vaccinations wear off? Many vaccinations provide life-long immunity while others may wear off over time. Vaccines are given to children when they are at most risk for contracting diseases as well as when they are at the highest risk of severe complications from a disease. So even if immunity fades over time, it is important receive vaccinations on time to protect children during these high-risk windows. Doctor's Advice: Ensure Your Child's Health with Timely Vaccinations A child receiving a vaccination can be a scary thing for some parents and misinformation about vaccines on social media and the internet can make things confusing. It is important for parents to discuss any questions they have about vaccines with their child’s health care provider. As medical providers caring for children, we all have the common goal of keeping children the healthiest they can be – and vaccines are an important part of that. To schedule an appointment with a Renown provider, please go here and click here to learn more about Brittany Lemons, MD.

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Say Hello to Summer in a Bowl If you've wanted to add a heart-healthy dish to your recipe repertoire, now's the time. This tasty vegan bowl loaded with turmeric chickpeas, marinated tofu and quinoa offers essential nutrients and beneficial fats to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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With the dangerous heat wave impacting our region, there are heightened risks of heatstroke, especially for children who cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults. Infants are particularly vulnerable and may not express discomfort, so never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Top Tips for Preventing Heatstroke Reduce the number of deaths from heatstroke by remembering to ACT. Avoid heatstroke-related injury and death by never leaving a child alone in a car, not even for a minute. And make sure to keep your car locked when you’re not inside so kids don’t get in on their own. Create reminders. Keep a stuffed animal or other memento in your child’s car seat when it’s empty, and move it to the front seat as a visual reminder when your child is in the back seat. Or place and secure your phone, briefcase or purse in the backseat when traveling with your child. Take action. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911. Emergency personnel want you to call. They are trained to respond to these situations Keeping Your Baby Cool in the Back Seat In hot weather, it is crucial to keep your baby cool and hydrated by using a car seat cover or towel over them to reflect the sun's rays. Dress your baby in lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs. Keep an eye on your baby's skin color. Move them to a cooler place if they look too red or flushed. Keep the temperature at a comfortable temperature for you, not for your child. Keep the windows cracked open for ventilation and ensure nothing is blocking the airflow from entering or exiting the vehicle. Dress your infant appropriately for their environment, including appropriate head and neck coverings, to keep them cool and protected from sunburns. Ensure you have enough fluids to last an hour before getting out of the car or use bottled water if possible. Never leave your child unattended in a car. Steps to Follow if You Suspect Heatstroke  Call 911 immediately.  Cool the victim – Get the person to a shady area, remove restrictive clothing and cover skin with sheets soaked in ice-water, and place ice packs in the arm pits and groin.  Have the victim drink cool fluids, preferably an electrolyte-containing sports drink.  Monitor body temperature with a thermometer but stop cooling efforts after temperature has dropped to 102 Fahrenheit. Baby Safe Classes These classes help prepare parents for emergencies that may occur in baby’s first year. Safe Kids Worldwide Did you know heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash related fatalities in children? “On average, every 10 days a child dies from heatstroke in a vehicle. In more than half of these deaths, the caregiver forgot the child was in the car.”

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Do you have a picky eater in your household? Or maybe you've got a snack monster who’s all about chips and candy? We're here to share a few fun strategies to motivate your little superheroes to snack on healthy foods instead! Rainbow Power-Up Eating a rainbow isn't just for unicorns! Different colors mean different powers: Red foods like strawberries and tomatoes help your heart. Orange foods like carrots and sweet potatoes help your eyes spot things like an eagle! Green foods like spinach and broccoli help you grow super strong bones. So, create a plate with as many colors as possible. The more colors, the more powers! Super Smoothies Blend your favorite fruits, such as bananas, berries and mangoes. Add some milk or yogurt and a handful of spinach. Your kids won't taste the spinach, and they'll drink a supercharged smoothie that gives them the energy to tackle any challenge. Create a Parfait Packed with Delicious Layers! Veggie Villans Who said veggies can't be fun? Turn them into heroes by giving them cool names and fun shapes. Make carrot sticks "Captain Crunch" or broccoli florets "Broc the Rock." Dip them in hummus or peanut butter for an extra flavor kick. Snack Attack Plates Create snack plates that are as fun as they are nutritious. Combine: Cheese cubes Grapes or apple slices Nuts or seeds Whole-grain crackers Mix and match these for your perfect plate! Make Your Own Trail Mix  Fuel-Up Challenges Challenge your kids to eat three different healthy foods each day. Turn it into a family game to see who can eat the most colors or try the most fruits and veggies. You can even draw up a "super snacks" chart to keep track of your progress. Final Super Tip! Even superheroes have cheat days. Don't worry if your family doesn't eat healthy every meal. Just aim to eat more of the good stuff than the not-so-great stuff. Your kid's bodies will reward them with tremendous energy, focus and strength.

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Craving a crunchy, sweet, and nutritious snack? Try making your own trail mix! Perfect blends of nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of chocolate can be whipped up using bulk bin ingredients or pantry staples. Enjoy this delicious, healthy snack on a hike, at the office, or on your next road trip through Nevada's scenic deserts.

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Eating healthy is a daily challenge for many, but for those with cancer, it is an even harder struggle. A cancer diagnosis affects not only those diagnosed but family members and friends, too. One key area of concern is making sure your loved one stays well by eating healthy food every day. Here are some vital cancer nutrition tips from Jessica Blauenstein, a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition and Registered Dietitian at Renown Health. Help to Prepare Meals and Snacks for Daily Cancer Nutrition Make it grab and go. Easy-to-make meals help reduce the burden of having to cook and prepare food. Having easy to grab snacks on the counter or in the fridge can help ensure your loved one has access to those nutrients when needed. Sit outside of the kitchen. This allows your loved one to avoid cooking smells which can make them feel sick as a side effect of cancer treatments. Also try serving them cold foods such as sandwiches, cheese and crackers, or shakes which have a mild scent. Try drinkable meals. Some people with cancer find it easier to sip their calories over the course of 30 minutes to an hour. Consider smoothies or supplemental shakes such as Ensure Complete, Fairlife shakes, Orgain shakes, or Boost Plus to name a few. A great foundation for a smoothie is a protein source (Greek yogurt, protein powder, nut butters or milk) with a carbohydrate (fruits, juice or berries). Add other ingredients as desired, such as spinach, kale, and ground flaxseed or chia seeds to give it more vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Snack Ideas for Those Undergoing Cancer Treatment The following ideas are both quick and easy to make for your loved one. Chicken or tuna salad with whole grain crackers or as a sandwich on whole grain bread Greek yogurt mixed with cereal, fruit and/or nuts Cottage cheese with banana, cinnamon and/or peanut butter Favorite fruit with 100% natural peanut or almond butter spread - Try peanut butter with bananas, apples, or even celery Their favorite veggies dipped in a salad dressing of your choice - For example, carrots with hummus, tahini, or ranch dressing Cheese and whole grain crackers - Add tomato slices with a small amount of avocado, and a dash of oregano on top for more flavor Eggs scrambled with cheese, vegetables and/or salsa Peanut butter and jelly sandwich on whole grain bread A baked sweet potato with some favorite toppings Hard boiled eggs and/or egg salad with whole grain crackers, or as a sandwich on whole grain bread Oatmeal or cream of wheat prepared with milk, fruit and/or nuts Sometimes your loved one may not feel like eating or refuse to eat. If treatment side effects are impacting your loved one’s ability to eat, please visit the websites below containing recipes tailored to treat side effects. Cook for Your Life ELLICSR Of course, you may also consult a registered dietitian and/or the patients care team, if you have more cancer nutrition concerns.

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As the holiday season draws near, we find more reasons to celebrate with loved ones. At Renown Health, we are kicking off the celebrations early this November with American Diabetes Month. Approximately 37 million Americans, including 270,000 Nevadans, have been diagnosed with diabetes with as many as 95% of those diagnosed living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). What is Type 2 Diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a chronic health condition that occurs because your body is not using insulin (a hormone made by the pancreas to help cells use the food we eat for energy) as well as it should, resulting in high blood sugar levels. It is important to obtain a diagnosis for T2DM and ensure it is well-controlled to prevent serious health complications. Those with diabetes are at higher risk for blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, stroke and amputation. Tips for Supporting Your Health with Type 2 Diabetes Know Your Blood Sugar Levels: Work with your healthcare provider to establish target blood sugar levels, and make sure to monitor your levels regularly as advised by your healthcare provider to prevent or delay health complications associated with T2DM. Focus on Your Plate: Eating foods such as fruits and vegetables, lean meats or plant-based proteins, healthy fats and whole grains supports diabetes management. If choosing healthy foods is difficult due to your busy schedule, cost or simply because you aren’t sure where to start, talk with your healthcare provider who may refer you to a registered dietitian. Registered dietitian nutritionists are certified nutrition specialists who can provide education and practical tips for eating to support your T2DM diagnosis with visits covered by many insurance plans. Prioritize Staying Active: Engaging in regular exercise is good for everyone, especially those living with T2DM. Exercise helps your cells become more sensitive to insulin and therefore supports healthy blood sugar levels. Always check with your healthcare provider prior to beginning a new exercise plan. Support Stress Reduction: Stress is unavoidable but can be managed through regular exercise, getting enough quality sleep (7-8 uninterrupted hours per night) and practicing meditation and other mindfulness techniques. Plan Ahead for Holiday Gatherings: There’s still room for celebration while focusing on blood sugar management. Consider bringing a healthy dish to your gathering, focus on filling your plate with vegetable sides and eating those first and incorporate a family walk after dinner. If traveling, pack nutritious snacks that support your health and keep you full. Lastly, enjoy the special dishes and desserts this season has to offer in single-serving portions.

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Heat and ice are two of the most common treatments used to relieve pain and reduce swelling in injuries. However, each one is better suited for certain types of injuries Dr. Luis Palacio, MD explores the differences between the two.  When it comes to treating aches and pains, the debate between heat and ice has been ongoing for quite some time. Both have their benefits making it crucial to understand which option is better suited for your specific needs.   Determining which method is better depends on various factors such as the type of injury or pain you are experiencing. For instance, if you have recently sprained your ankle or pulled a muscle during exercise, applying ice within the first 48 hours can help minimize swelling and alleviate discomfort.   It's worth noting that some individuals find alternating between heat and ice therapy beneficial as well. This approach combines the benefits of both methods by using heat to increase blood flow followed by ice to reduce inflammation.  Cold Therapy  Cold therapy can help to reduce inflammation after an injury, heat can have the opposite effect. Therefore, heat therapy should be reserved for those who have chronic pain issues and are not dealing with an acute injury. Cold therapy is often recommended immediately after an injury or during the initial stages of inflammation.  Cold therapy such as ice packs are especially effective in treating: Sprains  Strains Any injury that involves swelling Heat Therapy  Heat therapy is known for its ability to relax muscles, increase blood flow and soothe pain. It is often used for chronic conditions or injuries that are not inflamed. Applying heat can help alleviate stiffness, promote healing and provide a comforting sensation. This increased circulation can bring more nutrients and oxygen to the area, helping it to heal faster.  Heat therapy such as heating packs are especially effective in treating:  Stiffness with associated pain   Injuries that are not inflamed  Muscle pain

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Seeking specialized care for your teen from a sports medicine doctor is essential. Like a coach fine-tunes a player's skills, our experts fine-tune your teen's health, ensuring they stay at the top of their game. Luis Palacio, MD, a sports medicine physician with Renown Health, shares information to help young athletes safely push their boundaries and achieve their personal best. The Role of Sports Medicine Sports medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare that focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating injuries related to physical activity and sports. Renown's Sports Medicine team consists of skilled professionals passionate about keeping young athletes performing at their peak while minimizing the risk of injury. With a comprehensive approach to care, our sports medicine doctors provide tailored guidance and solutions to help your teen reach their full potential. Injury Prevention and Education Prevention is the key to maintaining a long and successful athletic journey. Our sports medicine doctors collaborate with young athletes to educate them about proper warm-up techniques, body mechanics, and techniques to prevent overuse injuries. From understanding the importance of rest days to practicing correct form, our experts empower teen athletes with the knowledge they need to stay in the game.

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Injuries happen to everyone. They are caused by participating in sports, recreational activities like hiking, and even by accidentally stepping off a curb wrong. If you experience a sprain or strain, the first few days are often the most painful. Renown Sports Medicine physicians Luis Palacio, MD and Brandon Hockenberry, MD walked us through what to do after an injury.  Listen to Your Body See a medical professional right away if: You know or suspect that a bone is broken You are having difficulties putting full weight on a joint of the leg Pain or swelling is severe There is a sign of an infection, such as redness and warmth in the joint  The First 24-72 Hours Joint sprains tend to swell more than muscle strains. You can use ice as needed for comfort and to relieve any pain, but do not use ice for more than 15-20 minutes at a time. Ice and NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) can help prevent excessive swelling and mask the pain, but they do not speed recovery. Some research shows that overuse of ice actually delays recovery.    During the first 24-72 hours, your injury will go through an inflammation phase. Inflammation is your body’s natural way to dispose of dead tissue cells, build new healthy structures, and hopefully heal even stronger than before.

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