Beech Tree News Network

March has arrived, and it’s a transition month. The weather is cool one day and warm another. Although we’ve had some beautiful weather, I’m still reading instead of getting outside. But spring is just around the corner.

Early spring flowers have begun to show up. Since the first day of spring will fall on Tuesday, March 20, this year, we have only a few days of winter left. As much as I’ve enjoyed my indoor time, I’m eager to enjoy flowers and warmer weather. My bushes and trees already have leaf buds. I love the promise of spring. And Daylight Savings Time (DST) will begin Sunday, March 11th (spring forward) – a calendar marker.

As we wait for warmer weather, I’ve been reading. Some recent material has involved health. I’ve been reading about two diseases that seem to be too common: dementia and obesity. Both seriously affect lives.

·       Many people deal with either Alzheimer’s disease or dementia as they or others age. My dad was diagnosed with dementia just before his death. Even though my dad was forgetful, he never reached the point of not recognizing his family and friends. The article, “Alzheimer’s vs. Dementia” (Renew magazine by UnitedHealthcare, Winter 2018, page 31), stated that the National Health Institute “defines Alzheimer’s disease as a form of dementia.” According to the article, some factors that may lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, staying socially and mentally active, and avoiding head trauma (i.e., wear helmets and seatbelts). I hope researchers discover more about these debilitating diseases.

·       Jane Velez-Mitchell said, “Obesity affects every aspect of people’s lives, from health to relationships” (https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/obesity). Additionally, the Women’s Health Reporter (2018, page 5) explained that research has shown obesity is currently the biggest cause of “preventable life-years lost.” Obesity is a risk factor contributing to chronic disease and death. Fifteen years ago, tobacco would likely have topped the list, but obesity is now a growing health crisis. Most experts lay part of the blame for the obesity problem on diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Personally, I struggle constantly with my weight. Even though this is a “preventable” health problem, anyone who has worked to lose weight knows it’s no easy task. Yet, since our lives are on the line, it’s worth doing.

Both dementia and obesity damage lives. Anything we can learn that prevents them will be a blessing.

March may bring a bit more winter-like weather. After all, “winter was made for warm blankets and large books” (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/128915608057549632/). And I still have a stack of reading for that indoor time.