East Side group hears health tips

Chiropractor Richard Strom of Flint said there are some simple things everyone can do to prevent back pain at the East Side Business Association meeting Dec. 7.

Standing straight is the easiest change one can make to improve one's health, according to Strom. A person is standing correctly when they are standing straight next to a wall and tucking in the hips. Maintaining good posture is fundamental to maintaining a pain-free back. Sitting properly is as important as standing straight. Bending the knees when sitting on a recliner or ottoman is the preferred sitting posture.

Eating nutritious foods and exercising were two other habits that can help maintain a lifetime of health, according to Strom.

"Don't eat for the pleasure of it," Strom warned. Comfort foods are almost always high in fat and sugar, he said.

"It's important to eat alkaline-producing foods and reduce your intake of acid-producing foods for a healthy pH balance," Strom stressed. "Viruses and bacteria love acid foods. That's why you need to eat alkaline foods so your body can function at its best level."

According to Strom, an alkaline diet has more fresh fruits and vegetable and less processed foods — meats and sweets made with white flour and sugar.

"But don't eat too many vegetables like potatoes, corn, peas and carrots. These can turn to sugar," Strom warned.

He recommended broccoli and green beans because they have no limits.

"Some of the best alkaline fruits are watermelon, cantaloupe and fresh pineapple," Strom added.

He cautioned about drinking the new energy drinks that have high levels of caffeine and sugars as well as diet colas.

"Military pilots are not allowed to drink diet colas because it interferes with their thinking," Strom added.

He suggested checking one's pH level using a litmus strip under the tongue first thing in the morning to determine if one's pH is acid or alkaline.

Strom said the best supplement to ones diet is vitamin D for maintaining strong bones. Exercise is also important.The easiest one being deep breathing. By inhaling deeply through the nose the body can maintain a high and healthy oxygen level. He also recommended walking in place while watching television for 30 minutes for cheap and safe exercise.

Asked if turning mattresses helps relieve back pain, Strom suggested using an air mattress cover that can be adjusted for comfort.

In other matters, Mike Tobias announced a special senior dinner and movie at Hurley Hospital 3 to 4 p.m. Jan 17. The early bird special senior dinner that includes a main entrée, two side dishes, drink and dessert. The dinner is followed by the movie, The Help. Free valet parking is available at Hurley's new main entrance at Sixth Avenue and Grand Traverse St. The cost is $5.