Enterovirus

Non-polio enteroviruses are very common viruses. About ten to fifteen million people are infected in the United States annually. Anyone can get infected with non-polio enteroviruses. Infants, children, and teenagers are more likely to get infected and become sick because they don’t yet have immunity (protection) from previous exposures to the viruses.

Most people who get infected with non-polio enteroviruses do not get sick. Mild illness, like the common cold may occur with symptoms of fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, skin rash, mouth blisters and body aches. Some may get very sick and have infection in the heart, brain or even become paralyzed. Infants and people with weakened immune systems have a greater chance of having these complications. Newborns infected may develop sepsis (infection of the blood and other organs). Enterovirus infections may assist the development of type 1 diabetes in children.

There is no specific treatment for non-polio enterovirus infection. People with mild illness caused typically only need symptom treatment and usually recover completely. Supplements that help with immune boosting, cough and cold symptoms, and anti-viral support may offer some relief.  However, some illnesses caused by non-polio enteroviruses can require hospitalization. If you are concerned about your symptoms, you should contact your health care provider.

You can get infected with non-polio enteroviruses by having close contact with an infected person or touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can be found in feces, saliva, nasal mucus, sputum, and blister fluid. In the US, people are more likely to get infected in the summer and fall.

Non-polio enterovirus can be shed (passed from a person's body into the environment) in your stool for several weeks or longer after you have been infected. The virus can be shed from your respiratory tract for one to three weeks or less. Infected people can shed the virus even if they don't have symptoms.

There is no vaccine to protect you from non-polio enterovirus infection. Since many infected people do not have symptoms, it is difficult to prevent non-polio enteroviruses from spreading. You can help protect yourself and others from non-polio enterovirus infections by washing hands often with soap and water, avoid contact with those who are sick, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

- Mona Claypoole, Director of Marketing and Wellness Support

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large

intestine (colon). Irritable bowel syndrome commonly causes uncomfortable symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. IBS is a chronic condition that may need to be managed long term, although there may be times when the signs and symptoms are worse and times when they improve or even disappear completely.

Only a small number of people with irritable bowel syndrome have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. IBS affects between 25-45 million Americans every day. A high percentage of IBS sufferers are adult women, but the disorder can affect all people of all ages. Here are simple tips for improved bowel health:

• Increased fiber helps to absorb and eliminate toxins in the colon that may contribute to IBS symptoms.
• Limit fatty foods that are high in fat as they may contribute to IBS.
• Minimize caffeinated foods and beverages (such as coffee, tea, soda and chocolate) as they may worsen IBS symptoms.
• Avoid high sulfur foods such as brussels sprouts, cabbage, garlic, onions and broccoli, which are high in sulfur and may actually trigger IBS symptoms.
• Food sensitivities, such as gluten and dairy, may contribute to IBS. A gluten-free diet, dairy-free diet, or both can help to improve IBS symptoms in these people.
• Herbs and supplements such as marshmallow root, slippery elm, L-glutamine can help nourish and soothe the intestinal tract and bowel.
• Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria in the gut that help to maintain a balanced internal environment and promote optimal digestion and immune health.
• Drinking plenty of water (at least half your body weight in ounces every day) will help flush out toxins and other harmful microbes that may be causing IBS symptoms.
• Cleansing the system may improve digestive health and elimination.
• Taking peppermint oil combined with caraway oil may reduce gas production, ease intestinal cramping, and soothe the intestinal tract.

Mona Claypoole - Director of Marketing and Wellness Support

Back to School Dinners Made Easy

Back-to-school can be hectic trying to adjust to new schedules and getting everything on your list accomplished by the end of the day. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming.  It just means making some better choices. Foods high in sugar can drain your energy and lead to immunity and illness.

A healthy meal should contain a good protein source (lean meats, natural nut butter), include a whole grain and a fruit.  Planning easy, healthy dinners are important for staying on tight schedules and can make things seem easier.  You can take advantage of some of the great fall fresh vegetables available in your community and throw together a healthy meal in less than 30 minutes. This turkey wrap is perfect for quick and easy meals and will delight with every bite.

Apple Turkey Wraps

Ingredients

1 1/3 cups red apples, diced
1/2 cup low-fat lemon yogurt
4 8 inch Ezekial sprouted whole grain tortillas, warmed
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
6 oz smoked turkey breast, thinly sliced
2 oz Havarti cheese, thinly sliced
2 cups clover sprouts

Directions

Combine apples and yogurt; set aside.
Divide and arrange spinach, turkey, cheese, and sprouts evenly over tortillas.Place ¼ of apple mixture down center of each tortilla. Fold two opposite sides in about 1 ½ inches and roll. Cut each wrap in half and serve immediately.

From: Michigan Apple Committee      Servings: 4         Prep Time: 10 min.

-Mona Claypoole, Director of Marketing & Wellness Support