Empowering Older Adults: Unlocking the Benefits of LIFE Pittsburgh

Myth: Seed oils are bad for youThe myth that has been gaining popularity on social media is that seed oil is bad for you. What's commonly said is that oils like canola, rapeseed, soybean, and grapeseed oils increase inflammation. The reason? These oils have a high amount of omega-6 fatty acids. In some animal studies, rodents that were fed diets high in omega-6 fatty acids showed an increase in inflammation1. However, there are no human studies that show this to be true. In fact, when looking at multiple studies, people consuming these plant-based oils had LESS inflammation and lower bad cholesterol, than those that ate more butter or lard. Let us dive a little deeper into this topic.Understanding Seed Oil BenefitsAre you familiar with omega-3 fatty acids? This is the beneficial polyunsaturated fat found in fish but also found in flax seeds and walnuts. These fatty acids have been shown to be heart healthy, help prevent inflammation, and lower triglycerides, which is a type of fat found in our blood. Omega-6 fatty acids is another type of polyunsaturated fat which is found in safflower oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seeds, walnuts, corn oil, soybean oil, and pumpkin seeds. The fear of these omega-6 fatty acids is that the most prominent one, linoleic acid, changes into another fatty acid, arachidonic acid (ADA), which could increase inflammation. However, science does not support this. Linoleic acid does a poor job in converting to this ADA. There are multiple studies that look at increasing and decreasing amounts of linoleic acid in diets having little to no impact on the total amount of ADA in our blood. On top of that, ADA has both inflammatory AND anti-inflammatory properties, making this argument a very weak one.Studies show that both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are beneficial to our heart and health. Many studies show that as consumption of omega-6s goes up, the risk of heart disease goes down. When replacing saturated fat with omega-6 fatty acids, the risk of heart disease dropped by 24%1. We know that omega-3 fatty acids are good for us, but most Americans do not eat enough omega-3s to achieve all the cardio-protective benefit. Most of us consume well over the recommendation for omega-6s. Seed oils are used often in highly processed foods like baked goods, chips, salad dressings, mayonnaise and candy. Instead of focusing on removing seed oils from your diet, try to increase your intake of omega-3s and limit the chips, baked goods and candy. Focus on increasing the intake of baked or grilled fish to 1-2 times per week and adding walnuts and flaxseeds into your diet.The truth of the mythWhen oils are heated to high temperatures for a long period of time, as is the case of deep-frying food, the oils break down and convert to trans fats. These fats DO become inflammatory. They also increase our risk for heart disease by increasing the bad cholesterol. When we use seed oils for cooking like roasting, sauteing or even pan frying, the oil is not reaching the same hot temperature that convert the oils to trans fats. If you are deep-frying at home, it is important to discard the oil after use, and not reuse that oil.TakeawaysThere is no need to fear seed oils. They are an inexpensive, easily available, heart-protecting unsaturated fat. There are no good studies supporting the claims that they are bad for us. More important than reducing our intake of omega 6s is the need to increase omega 3s and decrease our intake of saturated fats and fried foods.

10 Ways to Stay HydratedBeat the Heat with These HacksWe are often dehydrated before we even feel thirsty. We lose water through sweating, urinating, and breathing.  According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, women should drink 11.5 cups a day, and men should drink 15.5 cups a day.Does keeping up with your fluid intake feel daunting? Read on for different ways you can stay on track from Registered Dietitian Lila Cornelio.Start Your Day with a Glass of WaterKickstart your hydration first thing in the morning with a glass of water. This can help replenish fluids lost overnight and set a good hydration habit for the day.Carry a Reusable Water BottleHaving a reusable water bottle on hand makes it easier to sip water throughout the day. Choose one that's easy to carry and holds a good amount of water to encourage regular drinking. Infuse Your Water with Fruits and HerbsAdd a burst of flavor to your water by infusing it with fruits like lemon, lime, berries, or herbs like mint and basil. This can make drinking water more enjoyable and encourage you to drink more.Eat Water-Rich FoodsIncorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. These can contribute to your overall hydration.Set RemindersUse your phone or a hydration app to set regular reminders to drink water. This can help ensure youre drinking consistently throughout the day.Opt for Hydrating BeveragesWhile water is the best option, other beverages like herbal teas, coconut water, and electrolyte-enhanced drinks can also help maintain hydration levels, especially if youre active.Monitor Your Urine ColorA simple way to check your hydration status is by the color of your urine. Light yellow indicates good hydration, while darker urine suggests you need to drink more fluids.Stay Cool with Ice PopsHomemade ice pops made from water, fruit juice, or blended fruits can be a refreshing way to boost your fluid intake while enjoying a summer treat.Hydrate Before, During, and After ExerciseIf youre engaging in physical activities, especially outdoors, make sure to drink water before, during, and after exercise to replace the fluids lost through sweat.Limit Caffeinated and Alcoholic BeveragesCaffeine and alcohol can have a diuretic effect, leading to increased fluid loss. Balance these with plenty of water to maintain proper hydration.Hydration is crucial during the summer, as higher temperatures increase the risk of dehydration. Staying well-hydrated helps regulate body temperature, supports metabolic functions, and maintains overall health, making it essential for enjoying the season safely and energetically.-Lila Cornelio, MS, RDN, LDN is a Registered Dietitian at our Florida program, Trinity Health PACE of Pensacola. With education and expertise in public health, sports nutrition, and plant based nutrition, her passion lies in educating others how to nourish their body and mind in a fast paced world.   Mercy Life of Alabama is a PACE that offers numerous services for Seniors.  Learn more by visiting their website at: https://www.trinityhealthpace.org/alabama/mercy-life-of-alabama/.

Re-Bath Full-Service Bathroom Remodeling Company in MobileIf youve been dreaming of owning a bright, modern bathroom that will meet your needs, Re-Bath is here to help. Were a locally owned and operated bathroom remodeling company in Mobile, AL with a reputation for creating functional, inspiring bathrooms for our customers. We offer a wide selection of products and design options, including tubs, showers, sinks, and vanities. Our bathroom remodelers can also replace bathroom lighting and flooring.Well guide you through the entire bathroom renovation process. During the design phase, well discuss what you have in mind, offer suggestions, and put together a customized design. Your entire new bathroom can be planned and priced in the comfort of your own home. Youll have the choice of various colors and patterns as well as access to our exclusive and proprietary products.Ready for a Change?Youve come to the right place. Our free in-home design consultations, high-end product selections, fast demos, and professional installation will take you from design to done in no timeand with no stress.Out With the Old, In With the New BathroomAdd comfort, style, and value to your home with a completely new bathroom. Our affordable bathroom remodel services make it easy.Looking for Accessible Bathroom Remodeling?You can have Safety Without Sacrificing StyleRemodel your bathroom to be ADA-compliant and enjoy peace of mind while retaining your independence. Re-Bath makes it simple and cost-effective to get a bathroom thats both safe and beautifully designed, in a matter of days.Walk-in BathtubsRe-Baths walk-in bathtubs include innovative safety features and thoughtful design elements that empower you to create the beautiful bathroom you want with the safety and comfort you need. Our ADA-compliant walk-in tubs offer features like grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, comfortable seats, and moreall incorporated seamlessly into an attractive design.Accessible ShowersOur accessible showers help you retain your independence while reducing safety risks. Choose from zero and low-threshold shower bases fitted with our exclusive slip-resistant technology, grab bars, and shower benches. High-Quality Products & MaterialsWell remodel your bathroom with a combination of materials from trusted brands and Re-Bath exclusive products. DuraBath Natural Stone Wall Surrounds DuraBath Wall Surrounds Wall surround patterns Zero and low-threshold shower bases Shower benches Grab bars Slip-resistant technology Faucets and fixtures Learn More About Our Bathroom Remodel Process1.      Free In-Home Design ConsultationOur design consultant will come to you, measure your bathroom, and share ideas for transforming it into the perfect space. Together, youll choose your preferred design style, as well as colors, finishes and products.2.      Removal & PreparationOnce youve chosen your products, our technicians will prepare your bathroom for renovation, carefully removing old materials and handling any necessary repairs before installation.3.      Professional InstallationFrom the flooring underfoot to the lighting overhead, the expert Re-Bath installation team takes care of all the details, delivering your new bathroom in days, not weeks.4.      Post-Care & WarrantyEnjoy peace of mind knowing your investment is protected with warranties on workmanship, installation, and products.Special Financing with 0% Interest for 12 months. Contact Re-Bath Mobile at 251-220-9284 for a free consultation.  Serving the following counties in Alabama: Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe & Washington.