BE THOUGHTFUL ABOUT WHAT YOU SAY TO YOUR DOCTOR

5 things to never say to your doctor By Amber Brenza Published February 26, 2016. 

You probably have a long list of things you'd rather do than see your doctor. We feel you; doctor's appointments can be incredibly stressful. But here's the thing: They don't have to be. One way to make your annual checkup or urgent care visit go more smoothly is to clearly communicate your questions and concerns, but how much talking should you really do-and what, if anything, is off-limits? We talked to some top doctors to find out which phrases they don't want you to utter-and what you should say instead.  DON'T say: "I'm sure it's... We all love Dr. Google. But most doctors cringe when they hear you say, "I looked up my symptoms online, and..." said Dr. Elizabeth Lyster, a California-based OB-GYN. Not only could you freak yourself out by reading all the super-scary things that might be wrong with you, but you might actually make your doctor's job harder, said cardiologist Suzanne Steinbaum, DO, director of women's heart health at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City and Go Red for Women physician spokesperson. "Whatever you researched online, keep it to yourself," Steinbaum said. Doctors have a certain protocol they go through in order to determine a diagnosis-they consider your symptoms, family history, any medications you're on-and sharing your self-diagnosis could muddy the waters.  DON'T say: "It's probably just stress. Sure, stress can make you sick, but if you downplay your symptoms, your doc is less likely to take them seriously. You'll also want to avoid phrases like "but it might just be in my head," advised Steinbaum. "If you say, 'I have headaches, but I might be anxious' or 'it might be stress,' all the doctor hears is that you have headaches caused by stress," Steinbaum said.  DON'T say: "I'm sorry I wasted your time. It's your doctor's job to take care of you, and there's nothing wrong with leaving a checkup-or even the emergency room-with a relatively clean bill of health. If something doesn't feel right, get it checked out. It's better to go to the ER with chest pain (or just a feeling that something isn't right ) and come out with heartburn meds than to stay home and have a heart attack, Steinbaum said. DON'T say: "Surely you've heard of... It's totally fine to come to your appointment armed with questions about that arthritis medication you saw advertised on TV or a new study you read about, but don't assume your doctor is as looped in as you are. "Sadly, doctors aren't always the most up-to-date on things because they just don't have the time," Lyster said. If you want to discuss an article you read, take a moment to print it out and bring it to your appointment. Heard about a new drug that just hit the market? Bring along a one-page write-up about it (copy and paste from the Internet-you don't have to write it yourself). "You've got to have a way to get the information to a doctor in a quick fashion," Lyster said. DON'T say: "Aren't you the expert? News flash: Doctors are human, too. Yes, they went to medical school and treat patients every single day, but putting all of your faith in one person can be dangerous. "It's a tricky balance between respecting the doctor and not thinking that they have all the answers on earth," Lyster said. And while we hope your doctor is competent, you still need to take an active role in your health. If she suggests a regimen you'll never realistically stick with or a medication you're allergic to, speak up ASAP. Medical professionals deserve your respect-but they should respect your input as well. "If you don't feel like you can talk to your doctor, you need to get another doctor," Steinbaum said. 

WHAT KIND OF BREAD ARE YOU EATING

Is gluten-free, carb-free 'cloud bread' actually good for you? By Kathleen Mulpeter Published February 27, 2016.  

If you hadn't heard of "cloud bread" yet, you were bound to soon. This grain-free, low-carb bread alternative is taking the Internet by storm: The hashtag #cloudbread generates more than 2,000 images on Instagram, and Pinterest ranked it among the top ten trends of 2016.  The recipe-which was popularized by food bloggers like Momables and The Big Apple Mama -calls for just three ingredients: eggs, softened cream cheese, and cream of tartar. Some people add a little honey for sweetness. It has a crispy texture when it comes out of the oven, then becomes soft and chewy when stored overnight in a plastic container.  But is it actually good for you? As an occasional treat, cloud bread is fine, says Health 's contributing nutrition editor Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD . But it's definitely not a good idea to eat it instead of whole grain bread, in an effort to clean up your diet or lose weight, she says.  "Just because a recipe is grain-free or low-carb doesn't automatically make it healthy, or mean that portions don't matter," Sass explained. "In cloud bread, the grain flour is primarily replaced with eggs and cream cheese, and the latter isn't a food I recommend upping your intake of," she said, since cream cheese is high in saturated fat. Moreover, while cloud bread may have fewer calories than whole grain bread (about 40 calories per slice versus 80), it lacks many of the nutrients in the real deal-like fiber, which has been shown to help lower blood sugar, cut cholesterol, and reduce colon cancer risk. Whole grains offer a slew of other health benefits, too. They deliver essential minerals and vitamins, aid digestion, help reduce belly fat, even protect your teeth and gums.  However, there are other alternatives more nutritions than cloud bread, Sass said. She recommends bread made with flour that comes from pulses, like chickpeas, or starchy vegetables, like potatoes. And if you're thinking about cloud bread as part of a no-carb diet, you may want to rethink the diet altogether, Sass said. Carb-free diets often backfire, she explains, because they tend to leave people hungry. And when you're hungry, you're more likely to turn to unhealthy fats-which can prevent weight loss, or worse, trigger weight gain. "Aim to cut back on carbs instead of completely eliminating them," she said. "If you're craving bread, choose one with nutrient-rich, whole food ingredients, rather than processed ingredients. And stick to one slice rather than two. 

A LITTLE HUMOR FROM DAYS GONE BY

"Red Skelton's" RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT MARRIAGE

For you folks of a certain age who remember Red Skelton

 

1. Two times a week we go to a nice restaurant, have a little beverage, good food and companionship.

    She goes on Tuesdays, I go on Fridays.

 

2. We also sleep in separate beds.

    Hers is in California and mine is in Texas.

 

3. I take my wife everywhere, but she keeps finding her way back.

 

4. I asked my wife where she wanted to go for our anniversary.

    "Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!" she said.

    So I suggested the kitchen.

 

5. We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops.

 

6. She has an electric blender, electric toaster and electric bread maker.

     She said "There are too many gadgets, and no place to sit down!"

     So I bought her an electric chair.

 

7. My wife told me the car wasn't running well because there was water in the carburetor.

     I asked where the car was.

    She told me, "In the lake."

 

8. She got a mud pack and looked great for two days.

    Then the mud fell off.

 

9. She ran after the garbage truck, yelling,

    "Am I too late for the garbage?"

    The driver said, "No, jump in!".

 

10. Remember: Marriage is the number one cause of divorce.

 

11. I married Miss Right.

      I just didn't know her first name was 'Always'.

 

12. I haven't spoken to my wife in 18 months.

      I don't like to interrupt her.

 

13. The last fight was my fault though.

      My wife asked, "What's on the TV?"

       I said, "Dust!".

OH THE PAIN OF IT ALL

Today at 6:18 PM

How to avoid developing kidney stones By Dr. David B. Samadi Published February 24, 2016.  

A new study shows kidney stones are on the rise. What is surprising to doctors is not only the number of new cases of kidney stones, but that they are also developing in people who are not normally considered high risk, including children, women and African Americans. Kidney stone statistics: Kidney stones are one of the most common disorders of the urinary tract. Each year in the United States, people make more than a million visits to health care providers and more than 300,000 people go to emergency rooms for kidney stone problems. Kidney stones affect 19 percent of men and 9 percent of women by age 70. In a study done between 1997 and 2012, the frequency of kidney stones increased by 16 percent. More women under the age of 25 experience kidney stones than men. What is a kidney stone? Kidney stones are small, hard, crystallized deposits that are made up of mineral and acid salts which form inside your kidneys. Our urine excretes waste which is comprised of various chemicals including calcium, oxalate, urate, cysteine, xanthine and phosphate. When urine is too concentrated, meaning there is too much waste and too little liquid, crystals begin to develop. Gradually, the crystals can conjoin and form a large, solid stone. What causes kidney stones? There is no single cause for kidney stones, and often, there is no known cause. However, there are in fact many different types of kidney stones which can help determine the cause. For example, calcium kidney stones are the most common form of kidney stone. Oxalate kidney stones are made up of oxalate, which is a naturally occurring substance in food. Therefore, anything that increases oxalate levels can increase the risk of a kidney stone. And uric acid stones often form in people who do not drink enough fluids or eat a diet high in protein. How are they treated? The treatment for kidney stones usually depends on the size of the stone. If a kidney stone is smaller than four millimeters in diameter, a person can usually pass the stone through the urine on their own. Drinking lots of water (at least two to three quarts a day) and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help when passing small stones. Larger stones are more difficult to pass and may require a more invasive treatment such as surgery or shock-wave lithotripsy. Shock-wave lithotripsy involves high-energy sound waves that break up the stone in to more easily passable pieces. Who is at risk? The risk factors for kidney stones include being over age 40, being male, ingesting too little water, too much/little exercise, obesity, weight loss surgery, digestive diseases, and consuming a diet high in salt, protein or sugar -- especially fructose. Having a family history of kidney stones can also increase your risk of developing them; furthermore, if you have already experienced kidney stones, you are at an increased risk of developing more. How can I prevent kidney stones? The best way to prevent kidney stones is through making dietary changes. It is important to always drink lots of water, at least six to eight glasses a day. This can significantly reduce your risk of developing kidney stones. Make sure you don't hold in your urine -- it is recommended to excrete about 2.6 quarts of urine every day. Eat less foods that are rich in oxalate such chocolate, soy products, okra, beets, sweet potatoes, tea and nuts. Also, eat less foods that are high in salt and animal protein. 

2 MORE GOOD RECIPES

Eggplant Pancake

1 medium eggplant, peeled and cut into small chunks 1 egg 1 to 2 tablespoons flour Salt and ground black pepper, to taste OR Cavendar's Greek Seasoning Grated parmesan cheese, optional Finely chopped onion, optional Butter, for frying Cook eggplant in a small amount of water until tender. Drain, squeezing out excess water, if needed. Beat egg with the flour, seasoning, cheese and onion, if using; mix with eggplant, blend well. Heat butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Drop eggplant mixture by spoonfuls into skillet. Cook on both sides until cooked through and browned. Delicious!  

Sugar-Free Pecan Pie

6 tablespoons melted butter or margarine 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Dash kosher salt 3 eggs, beaten 1 (12-ounce) jar sugar-free honey (see note) 1 'cup' pecans, halves or chopped Pie crust, optional In a large bowl, combine the butter, vanilla, salt, eggs and sugar-free honey and mix well. Stir in pecans and pour into a pie plate that has been sprayed with Pam or lined with crust. Bake at 375 degrees for 40 minutes. Cool completely before serving. 

WATER WATER EVERYWERE AND PLENTY TO DRINK

5 more ways to stay hydrated By Tanya Zuckerbrot Published February 23, 2016.  

Having trouble drinking your recommended daily 'cup's of water? Our body systems depend on water to function properly. Water is essential for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails, as well as aiding in controlling body temperature and our blood pressure. In addition, a study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that increasing water intake can aid in weight loss. Even so, staying hydrated can be challenging! Try out these tips and savor the feeling of hydration. Make the experience more enjoyable: Add in fresh fruit or citrus, such as berries or lemon slices, or fresh herbs like mint, to give your plain water an all-natural flavor boost. There are a multitude of possibilities when it comes to fruit and herb combinations, making drinking water more interesting. The benefits? No artificial sweeteners are needed and you can add an extra dose of vitamins and minerals to your day. Coconut water: You've heard this one before- and it's true. Coconut water is an excellent low-calorie, grab-and-go option that provides ample hydration and coconut water is chock full of valuable electrolytes which are important for several body functions such as regulating heartbeat, muscle contraction, and conducting nerve impulses. Make sure to stick to an unsweetened, natural, coconut water to get the most benefits without any of those added sugars. Bring on the FIZZ: Soda is a no-no but that doesn't mean you can't have a little bubbly action in your day. Seltzer water is cool and fizzy going down, and wonderfully hydrating as well. For added sweetness, add in sliced strawberries and lime for additional color and flavor, and avoid artificial sweeteners in the process. This one is a no brainer. Eat your water: A simple Google search will provide you with a list of the water content in some of your favorite fruits and veggies. Choose those with the highest water content for your daily menu and enjoy the benefits! Broccoli, strawberries, and celery all have a water content that is over 90 percent and they are naturally high in fiber, helping to keep you feeling full for longer. Create a new habit: While we each have our own set of healthy habits, all too often drinking water regularly is not one of them. Set yourself up for success by making an association between mealtime and "water time. How? Start or end every meal with a glass of water! We all grab a meal at some point in the day and this is a great way to get in your water as well.  

FRIED FOODS-ARE THEY GOOD FOR YOU OR NOT

The surprising new reason why eating fried foods may be good for you By MaryGrace Taylor Published February 22, 2016.  

Attention, French fry addicts: Your favorite food may not be so terrible for you after all. At least, that's the conclusion made by a recent study.  The study found that the antioxidant content of deep-fried potatoes, pumpkin, tomatoes, and eggplant was significantly higher than sautéed or boiled veggies. It's no secret among nutritionists that adding a fat source to vegetables-e.g., roasting them with olive oil or using full-fat salad dressing over the fat-free stuff-boosts absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. So it's not totally illogical that deep-frying could take things a step further: When vegetables are fried in a healthy oil (think extra virgin olive oil), antioxidant compounds called phenols in the oil are transferred to veggies, said Frances Largeman-Roth, RD, author of " Eating in Color ," who was not involved in the study. In other words, a hot oil bath doesn't just unlock nutrients already inside vegetables -it actually helps infuse them with more nutrients than they started with.  As for other greasy goodies like fried chicken, popcorn shrimp, and cheese curds, researchers don't know whether these foods soak up any phenols at all when fried. Largeman-Roth speculates that these foods have lower water content than vegetables, which doesn't allow them to soak up as much oil (and, consequently, phenols), if any at all. These findings, while exciting, don't give you a carte blanche to go crazy on those fried zucchini chips whenever you feel like it, though. All that oil-and batter if veggies are coated before fried, which most are-means major calories, which could spell a fast-track to weight gain, overconsumption, and other health problems. Also, researchers fried veggies in extra virgin olive oil, which is known for its sky-high levels of phenols. Frying in regular olive oil or refined vegetable oils prolific used by most restaurants might not have had the same effect, Largeman-Roth said. Even worse, some restaurant frying oils contain trans fat.  Oil temperature is also an issue. While frying in EVOO can imbue your veggies with more antioxidants, those benefits backfire if the oil gets too hot. "If you heat any oil past its smoke point, it starts to break down and release free radicals," Largman-Roth said. The study used a fry temperature of around 350 degrees, which is safely below extra virgin olive oil's 400 degree smoke point.  Of course, you can't control the type of oil or temperature used in a restaurant fryer, but you can at home. What to do? If you want to eat fried food as an occasional indulgence, stick to vegetables that you fry at home in high-quality oil, using a fry thermometer to make sure the oil doesn't go above its smoke point. 

GUYS-IT MAY NOT BE YOUR FAULT

The weird way looking at your phone can mess with your hearing By Alexis Reliford Published February 20, 2016.  

Do you ever get accused of "not listening" because you're glancing down at your phone? Here is a study that suggests it's not your fault (sort of). Research has revealed that concentrating on a visual task (say, scrolling through your Instagram feed) may render you temporarily deaf to normal-volume sounds (like your friend's story about ... what was she talking about again?)  For the small study, researchers from the University College London analyzed the real-time brain activity of 13 volunteers as they completed visual tasks while sounds played in the background. As the tasks got harder, the brain's response to sound was reduced. "The brain scans showed that people were not only ignoring or filtering out the sounds, they were not actually hearing them in the first place, " study co-author Maria  Chait, PhD, explained in a press release. These findings suggest that our vision and our hearing share limited resources in the brain, which is essentially forced to choose between processing info from our eyes or our ears.  So-called inattentional deafness could explain why you miss your bus stop announcement while you're reading a book, for example. Or why your boyfriend can't hear you calling him while he's watching TV. This phenomenon is a common occurrence in everyday life, co-author Nilli Lavie, PhD, pointed out in the study's press release. "And now we know why," she said.

IS THERE A CHILL IN THE AIR

A drop in temperature may not just chill you to the bone this winter - for some people, it can actually trigger pain. We recently got this question from a viewer: Dear Dr. Manny, I get pain in my jaw when it's really cold out. Why does this happen? Thanks, Meghan The first thing you should do is get your teeth checked to rule out cavities as a cause for your pain. But the weather can have an effect on your body in ways you may not expect. Studies have shown that changes in barometric pressure that often accompany a drop in temperature can trigger pain by causing air pockets throughout your body to expand and/or shrink, putting pressure on the nerves. Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ, are also common in adult women. Symptoms can include: Earaches Headaches Chewing pain Difficulty opening your mouth Clicking or grating sounds in the joint Shivering in cold weather can cause the muscles in your jaw to constrict or spasm, which can also result in pain. Always talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment based on your condition. 

Next event at WSB!

Learn About Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder, Presented By Vanda Pharmaceuticals

 

Date:  March 12, 2016 

Noon-2pm

Location: World Services for the Blind, 2811 Fair Park Blvd. Little Rock. 501-664-7100extension 233 (Shelly). Can rsvp via Facebook, messenger or email atsatkins@wsblind.org. 

 

Attend a live event to learn about Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder and have your questions answered by a medical expert.   

The presentation will aim to educate everyone present about Non-24, its symptoms, its impact, and its prevalence in the blindness community.  

Following the event there will be an opportunity to sign up to receive additional information from Vanda regarding Non-24. 

Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder, also known as Non-24, is a serious, chronic disorder that disrupts a person’s circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms tell your body when to sleep and when to wake, among other things. Non-24 affects up to 70 percent of people who are blind, whether they were born blind or became blind later in life. 

 http://www.vandapharma.com

GOOD DENTAL CARE IS IMPORTANT TO YOUR HEALTH

Why your gums bleed after you brush your teeth Published February 17, 2016.  

If you spit pink every time you brush your teeth, you probably have gum disease. Mild gum disease-or gingivitis-is the chronic buildup of bacteria-laden plaque and tarter on your teeth that only a dentist can remove. How Gum Disease Gets Worse The longer plaque stays there, the more inflammation and swelling it'll cause around your gums. The simple act of brushing your teeth irritates the swollen gums, and makes them bleed. The problem: Most guys don't even know they have gingivitis because it normally doesn't cause pain until it worsens. And you definitely don't want it to get that point. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis, said Men's Health advisor Mark S. Wolff, D.D.S. Your teeth may loosen, or in extreme cases, fall out or need to be removed. It can also affect more than your mouth: Gum disease is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, too, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.  How to Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy The only way to get rid of or avoid gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. You should brush twice a day and floss every night to discourage plaque buildup. Sounds like simple advice, but you'd be surprised how easy it is to screw up.  Make an appointment with your dentist, too. Guys with bleeding gums or signs of cavities-toothache, pain when you eat hot or cold food, or pain when you bite down-should get a cleaning every three months, Wolff said. A buildup of plaque-the cause of gum disease-also causes cavities. If you don't have any symptoms now, but have had cavities in the past, you should make an appointment every six months to a year, Wolff said. 

 

WHAT'S IN YOUR PARMESAN CHEESE

There could be wood in your parmesan cheese Published February 17, 2016.  

Many cheese contain non-dairy filler ingredients like wood pulp, according to a report from Bloomberg.  Nostalgic about spaghetti and meatballs all covered with cheese? You may think twice about giving that dish an extra shake after a report shows that your favorite parmesan cheese may contain wood.  The Food and Drug Administration visited Castle Cheese Inc. in 2012 based on a tip and discovered some unsettling evidence. The Pennsylvania cheese factory, which supplies grated cheese to Target's Market Pantry brand and Associated Wholesale Grocers Inc., was shown to be producing parmesan cheese that had no parmesan in it. Instead, it was made with Swiss, mozzarella and white cheddar (which are cheaper) - and fillers such as cellulose (a byproduct of wood pulp) to prevent it from clumping. The company was issued a stern warning and Castle President Michelle Myrter is scheduled to plead guilty this month to criminal charges. She faces up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine. And Target isn't alone. Bloomberg recently went to an independent laboratory and had cheese tested from other store-bought grated parmesan for wood-pulp and discovered high percentages of cellulose in four different brands. Essential Everyday 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese, from Jewel-Osco, was 8.8 percent cellulose, while Wal-Mart Stores Inc.'s Great Value 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese registered 7.8 percent, according to test results. Whole Foods 365 brand didn't list cellulose as an ingredient on the label, but still tested at 0.3 percent. Kraft had 3.8 percent. "We remain committed to the quality of our products," Michael Mullen, a Kraft Heinz Co. spokesman, said.  John Forrest Ales, a Wal-Mart spokesman, said he questioned the reliability of testing a single sample and that Wal-Mart's "compliance team is looking into these findings. In the 1950s, the FDA established an official definition for Parmesan cheese that states it cannot contain more than 32 percent moisture, while it must have a "granular texture," come with a "hard and brittle rind," grate "readily," and be made from cow's milk, among others things. There is no reference about "wood pulp" or cellulose in the definition as an appropriate ingredient. Health experts say cellulose isn't toxic but shouldn't be consumed in large quantities. But, still, cheddar, swiss, and mozzarella are hardly a substitute for the real thing. According to reports, Castle Cheese Inc. has stopped making the not-so-Parmesan cheese, and filed for bankruptcy in 2014. 

 

HEALTHY HABITS REMINDER

REMINDER

We will be having a healthy habits get together at WSB on Saturday the 20^th.  Dr. Tim and Janet will be talking about heart health.  It will be starting at 10:00 o’clock.  If you can attend, please call Shelly to let her know and also let her know if you need transportation.  Please contact Shelly by Thursday the 18^th.

Shelly’s number is:

501-664-7100  ext 233

Until tomorrow

Bob and Johnye

HEALTHY HABITS

We will be having a healthy habits get together at WSB on Saturday the 20^th.  Dr. Tim and Janet will be talking about heart health.  It will be starting at 10:00 o’clock.  If you can attend, please call Shelly to let her know and also let her know if you need transportation.  Please contact Shelly by Thursday the 18th.

Shelly’s number is:

501-664-7100  ext 233

Until tomorrow

Bob and Johnye

KNFB READER-AN AMAZING APP

KNFB Reader Information Sheet - dated 2016-02-12.pdf1/ 2·         

·         

KNFB Reader makes the print yours.

 

KNFB Reader is a mobile app that reads print aloud.  It’s easy to use. Take a photo and the app reads the text aloud in

clear synthetic speech. And it’s fast – the print will be yours almost instantaneously. 

Worried about getting the right photo? The app will help you. It has text detection so you know you have the printed

side of the page. The app also helps you get the whole page photographed with tilt and viewfinder assist.  Just a tap of

the finger and the print is yours.

For the most current information, please visit www.nfb.org/knfbreader.

 

KNFB Reader Wins an AppleVis 2015 Golden Apple Award

The KNFB Reader team is pleased to announce that we have been awarded the AppleVis Golden Apple Award for Best

Assistive App for the second year in a row. Earlier this year, the KNFB Reader was inducted into the AppleVis iOS App

Hall of Fame and we are honored to have been recognized in both instances. AppleVis Golden Apple Awards are

awarded by community votes to developers in recognition of excellence in iOS apps.  AppleVis reports that KNFB Reader

won the vote for 2015 in a “landslide.” To learn more, read our press release about our 2015 AppleVis Golden Apple

Award.

What can this app do?

90 second audio file: “Make the Print Yours with KNFB Reader”

It can read receipts. You will know what has been put on your card at restaurants, stores, or in taxis. 

KNFB reader can read package labels. Wonder what came in the mail? Need nutritional information from your breakfast

cereal? KNFB Reader captures it all.

Is your screen reader not cooperating? KNFB Reader can capture print from

your computer or tablet screen. Photograph the screen and know exactly

what those error messages say.

What about user manuals? KNFB Reader can scan multiple pages at a time in

the batch mode. Just turn the pages as you shoot the photos. And if you want

that manual later, the text can be exported to Dropbox or Google Drive for

retrieval at another time. Once you’ve scanned it, the print is yours.

KNFB Reader allows you access to your most private documents with

complete independence. Review your taxes.  Check the terms of your lease or

mortgage documents. Read your lab reports from the doctor. Read your bills

– even those with tables.  KNFB Reader makes that print yours too.  

The app is fully accessible thanks to Google TalkBack and Voiceover app

functionalities that guide the blind user in taking the perfect picture. It is also

compatible with connected Braille displays. 

·         

Where to Purchase KNFB-Reader

KNFB Reader can be purchased for iOS at the App Store.

KNFB Reader can be purchased for Android at the Google Play Store.

Giving KNFB Reader as a gift is easy! You can obtain iTunes or Google Play gift cards at many local retailers such as

Target and Walmart or online at Amazon.com. To redeem iTunes gift cards, open the App Store, select the FEATURED

TAB, scroll down to the bottom of the page, and choose REDEEM. You will need to sign in using your Apple ID, and then

you will be prompted to use your phone’s camera to photograph the bar code on the gift card, or enter the redemption

code from the card manually. To redeem a Google Play gift card, choose the Navigation button in the upper left corner,

then scroll down and choose REDEEM, and enter the redemption code located on the Google Play gift card. 

You can gift KNFB Reader iOS directly to someone by opening the App Store, and searching for KNFB Reader. Then select

the app. At the top of the screen near the BACK button is a SHARE Button.  Choose that and then choose GIFT (you will

need to swipe past several options to reach this). Next will be a screen where you must enter the recipient’s email (you

will need to use the email they have linked to their Apple ID). You can even include a message and set a specific date to

send your gift. 

 

Questions about Using KNFBReader?

For instructional videos about using KNFB Reader, please visit our online school at http://www.knfbreader.com/#school.

You can also visit http://www.knfbreader.com or contact us at support@knfbreader.com or (347) 422-7085.

 

The KNFB Reader is developed by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and Sensotec NV. Make the print yours

and live the life you want.

YOUR MARRAGE IS WORTH PROTECTING

Five easy ways to ruin your marriage By Joshua Rogers Published February 12, 2016.  

At some point in my mid-thirties, it started happening to young couples around me. Their relationships began fracturing and falling apart, and it wasn't always the people you would expect. These were good folks with good intentions who said every word of their marital vows with conviction. But various circumstances and choices began pressing upon them, and eventually, I saw them go through extreme stress, separation, and sometimes, divorce. I don't think there's a magic formula for ruining your marriage, but based on my observations over the last few years, there are a few easy ways to turbocharge its demise. Here are five of them: 1. Intimate, opposite-sex friendships. We recognize the danger of getting into a physical relationship with someone else, but we often forget that it's just as dangerous for us to become emotionally close with someone of the opposite sex. It usually starts innocently enough - a friend at work asks you for advice, treats you to lunch, or confides in you behind closed doors. Over time, those kinds of interactions can be a gateway to emotional intimacy, and with the right combination of stress, attraction, and marital frustration, that friendship can easily turn into something more. 2. Constant criticism. We all deal with enough guilt and shame to keep us feeling down. When the person who knows us best reaffirms our shame with constant criticism, it can become too much to bear and make us want to distance ourselves from him or her. 3. Hypersensitivity. Our spouse is going to point out things about us that we don't want to hear. Joseph Pulitzer once said that those who are startled by unflattering facts should "blame the [person] before the mirror, not the mirror. A spouse who is hypersensitive won't be able to listen the ways he or she needs to change, and as a result, fixable problems will persist and create resentment in the marriage. 4. Unrestrained in-laws. You may be used to dealing with your family, but your spouse doesn't have nearly as much expertise. You've got to listen when your spouse says your family has weird dynamics and take your spouse's observations seriously. You've also got to step in and set good boundaries, especially if your family turns their dysfunction on your spouse. When spouses fail to do that, it introduces all kinds of unnecessary triangulation, tension, and feelings of betrayal into the relationship. 5. Isolation. If your marriage is struggling, you can doom it by keeping all the struggles behind closed doors and refusing to reach out to a counselor who can help you work through your issues. Married couples tell themselves they can fix it over time. But by the time they realize how incapable they are at untangling all the knots of dysfunction, it's usually too late. Anyone who has been married could add more bullet points to this list. But just as important as the ways we can undermine our marriages are the many other ways we can reinforce them. That involves doing things like intentionally building friendship with our spouses; offering regular praise and encouragement; acknowledging our spouses' criticisms and choosing to change; keeping healthy boundaries with third parties; and, if necessary, doing a martial checkup with a therapist or pastor every once in a while. It takes a lot of work to keep our marriages healthy, for sure. But a good marriage is the gift that keeps on giving, even if it's just building our character, which is what makes all the hard work worth it. 

DO YOU DEAL WITH MOTION SICKNESS

Tips for dealing with motion sickness Published February 10, 2016.  

For those who suffer from motion sickness, booking a trip or taking a boat ride can prove stressful and anxiety-inducing. The condition can cause patients to suffer from vomiting, dizziness or cold sweats just from being inside a moving car. Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear detects movement but the eyes, which are typically focused on stationary objects, do not. This sends mixed signals to the brain, making patients suffer. Prevention is key for these individuals, so here are some tips: A natural approach to treating this illness would be through the use of ginger supplements. Ingesting the root an hour before your trip can help aid digestion, stopping nausea. Patients can also seek the help of a'cup'ressure through a Sea Band, a small bracelet that applies pressure to the inside of the wrist. Multiple studies have shown this approach to be effective. Another option is a prescription patch that emits a medication, scopolamine, behind the ear. Patients can begin using it a few hours before travel and expect up to 72 hours of relief. Antihistamines like Dramamine and Benadryl have also been known to stop motion sickness, but both can cause drowsiness. When traveling, sit near a window and focus on the horizon instead of trying to read a book. Keeping dry crackers and a carbonated drink on hand can also help soothe the stomach. As always, patients should consult their doctor before trying any new drugs or treatment. 

MY HOW TIME CHANGES OUR PROSPECTIVE

Time Gets Better With Age
I've learned that I like my teacher because she cries when we sing "Silent Night." Age 5 

I've learned that our dog doesn't want to eat my broccoli either. Age 7 

I've learned that when I wave to people in the country, they stop what they are doing and wave back. Age 9 

I've learned that just when I get my room the way I like it, Mom makes me clean it up again. Age 12 

I've learned that if you want to cheer yourself up, you should try cheering someone else up. Age 14 

I've learned that although it's hard to admit it, I'm secretly glad my parents are strict with me. Age 15

I've learned that silent company is often more healing than words of advice. Age 24 

I've learned that brushing my child's hair is one of life's great pleasures. Age 26 

I've learned that wherever I go, the world's worst drivers have followed me there. Age 29 

I've learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it. 

Age 30 

I've learned that there are people who love you dearly but just don't know how to show it. Age 42 

I've learned that you can make someone's day by simply sending them a little note. Age 44 

I've learned that the greater a person’s sense of guilt, the greater his or her need to cast blame on others. Age 46 

I've learned that children and grandparents are natural allies. Age 47 

I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on and it will be better tomorrow. Age 48 

I've learned that singing "Amazing Grace" can lift my spirits for hours. Age 49 

I've learned that motel mattresses are better on the side away from the phone. Age 50

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a man (or woman) by the way he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights.  Age 51

I've learned that keeping a vegetable garden is worth a medicine cabinet full of pills. Age 52 

I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die. 

Age 53 

I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life. Age 58 

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. Age 62 

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back. Age 64 

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But if you focus on your family, the needs of others, your work, meeting new people, and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you. Age 65

I've learned that whenever I decide something with kindness, I usually make the right decision. Age 66 

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. Age 82 

I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch - holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. Age 90 

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. Age 92, and beyond...

WHAT'S YOUR DOGS IQ

    How a dog IQ test could help humans By Jenn Gidman Published February 09, 2016.  

Scientist from the London School of Economics and the University of Edinburgh set out to understand the link between intelligence and health 

by studying ... dogs. Per the Independent , 68 border collies performed a series of cognitive tasks (a "dog IQ" test, if you will), and scientists found not only did dogs who did well on one task tend to also have high performance on others, but that canines also develop dementia in a way similar to their two-legged owners-meaning study findings could potentially be applied to humans as well.  Scientists carrying out the study, had the dogs-whom   were referred to as "Mensa mutts"-tested on navigational skills, how quickly they could find hidden food, if they could gauge differences in food quantities, and how well they could follow a human pointing gesture. The dogs who performed above average on one test not only performed well on others-they also tended to complete the tests faster. "Just as people vary in their problem-solving abilities, so do dogs, even within one breed," Arden says. "This is significant because in humans there is a small but measureable tendency for people who are brighter to be healthier and live longer. Which could eventually help figure out the true tie-in between intelligence and health, with so-called "dognitive epidemiology" perhaps even leading to treatments for dementia in humans. Why it may have been easier to conduct an intelligence test on dogs than on humans: Researchers didn't have to control for "confounding" factors such as lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking) and socioeconomic status. Plus, "dogs are excellent for this kind of work because they are willing to participate and seem to enjoy taking part."