FOR YOUR HEALTH- by Wray Young

What are the safest containers for microwaving food?  Those made from glass & porcelain are much better choices than those made from plastic.  Some plastics, notably those with a #3 or #7 recycling symbol, can contain BPA, a chemical that’s been linked to reproductive and various other health problems.  BPA can leach from plastic into food, especially at high temperatures.  Plastic containers without BPA may be safer, but even they can degrade at high temperatures.  That’s particularly true for single-use containers such as margarine tubs.  Never cover your food in the microwave with plastic wrap as heat can cause chemicals from the plastic to be transferred to your food.  And don’t put too much stock in the term “microwave safe.”  That usually means the product contains no metal, not that it’s BPA-free or able to withstand high heat.

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FOR YOUR HEALTH- By Wray Young

GET YOUR IMPORTANT HEALTH-CARE PAPERS IN ORDER

You can’t predict when a medical emergency will strike, but you can make it easier for your family & friends if that day comes.  A number of documents can help guide your care when you can’t, preventing overly aggressive interventions while ensuring that you still get the care you do want.  These papers will also relieve a lot of stress and potential legal issues.

#1- A living will-  This document can cover specific health care procedures you do or don’t want under certain circumstances, such as whether to use a feeding tube or respirator to prolong life.

#2- Appoint a durable power of attorney for health care-   That person will have the right to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are not able to.  Make sure that the person is someone you trust, who understands your wishes, and has the emotional strength to follow through on them.

#3- Appoint a durable financial power of attorney to oversee all your finances if you are unable to.  Someone has to pay the bills when you can’t.

#4- Consider a DNR- A do-not-resuscitate order is usually suggested by a doctor when you are very ill.  It tells health-care professionals not to perform CPR if your heart or breathing stops and if it would probably not restore you to a meaningful life.

#5- Get the right forms- Living wills and other listed forms can be written up by your attorney, or you can find forms that you can complete yourself, along with much other important information at www.caringinfo.org

#6- Store them properly- Give copies of your documents to your doctors and trusted family members or friends.  Bring them to the hospital when you are admitted.  Keep copies in a secure place in your home and make sure people know where they are in case of emergency.  The time to take these steps is now, before you are physically unable to.