Weight No More

Many people see the new year as an opportunity to set new goals, which often focus on improving their health. Maintaining a healthy weight is a common goal, and it is one of the single most effective ways to improve overall wellness and avoid future health problems.

The benefits of losing excess weight can include:
• Increased energy and mobility
• Improved breathing
• Better sleep and reduced risk of sleep apnea
• Improved self-image
• Reduced risk for arthritis and joint problems
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke
• Lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes
• Reduced risk for cancers of the breast, colon, kidney, pancreas, and esophagus

Experts typically determine a person’s ideal weight by their body mass index (BMI), which is based on a person’s height and weight. A BMI chart uses these measurements to estimate how much fat is in your body, and tells you what health risk category you fall into. Waist size is also a factor in determining your health risk.

A good weight management plan involves changes in your lifestyle that you will be able to continue for the rest of your life, including:
• a healthy well-balanced diet with controlled portions (avoid extreme diets)
• physical activity
• understanding the emotions behind your eating patterns.

While many people can reach their weight goals through lifestyle changes and non-surgical options, other people with a dangerously high BMI may need to consider weight-loss surgery. Your primary care doctor or a dietitian can provide information about a safe, healthy, effective weight reduction program. If you need help managing your weight, Dean's Comprehensive Weight Management program offers a highly qualified team of medical professionals who will work with you to help you meet your goals and live a healthier life.

Attend a Free Program

New Year, New You! Start Your Medical Approach to Weight Loss
Monday, January 26th, 6-7 p.m.
Dean West Clinic, Forest Room, 752 N. High Point Road, Madison, WI

Have you tried to lose weight but had trouble shedding those extra pounds? Does your New Year's Resolution have you looking for more effective weight loss options? Dean's Comprehensive Weight Management program offers a customized, medical approach to help you manage your weight. Join Dean Dietitian Toni Brantner, as she explains what it takes to start living a healthier life! The presentation is open to all. Call (608) 250-1119 to register.

More resources:
Losing Weight
Dean & St. Mary’s Health Works Group Exercise Classes

The Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is a series of stretching and breathing exercises designed to keep all the systems of the body in glowing health, from the muscles and ligaments, to organs, nerves and glands. Yoga postures involve bending, twisting, and holding body positions in a specific way to bring the body into harmony with both mind and spirit.

There are several branches of yoga but they all share the intention of creating peace and tranquility and balance of the mind body and spirit. The branch of yoga that is most popular is Hatha Yoga, the yoga of physical well-being.

Hatha Yoga, consisting of asanas (postures and stretches), pranayama (breathing exercises), and relaxation and/or meditation, has many health benefits that may include:
• build muscle and bone strength
• increase flexibility
• manage stress
• improve posture, balance and concentration
• relieve chronic pain
• improve sleep and digestion
• lower blood pressure
• increase vitality
• develop an inner source of peace and tranquility

Preparing for a yoga class:
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as shorts or sweats and a T-shirt or sweatshirt
• Practice is done barefoot, so leave your shoes and socks by the door
• For your comfort, come to practice with an empty bladder, bowels and an almost empty stomach
• Bring your own yoga mat

Classes can range from gentle to intensely athletic, depending on your needs and the style of the teacher. After learning how to do the postures properly in class, you can do yoga at home when it is convenient for you. Regular practice (20 to 30 minutes each day) is recommended.

Learn more:
• Yoga for Older Adults
• Yoga Classes at Dean & St. Mary’s Health Works

Department Relocation Updates

This winter is seeing more Dean services move into the new Dean & St. Mary’s Outpatient Center at 700 S. Park St.

In December, physicians from General and Pediatric Surgery and Gastroenterology moved their Madison clinic offices to the new building.

On February 16, 2009, physicians from Neurology and Neurosurgery will move from their Dean Clinic offices on Fish Hatchery Rd. to the Outpatient Center as well. Once at the new Outpatient Center, these providers will be under a new department name; the Neurological Institute and Spine Center.

These moves will give us the opportunity to serve patients in this new and very pleasant environment, with immediate access to the adjacent St. Mary’s Hospital. If you have any questions, please contact the department of the physician who is caring for you. Get more details.