Thursday, July 8, 2010

NEW HEALTH PASSPORT CLASS SCHEDULE ONLINE

Greetings!

You can view our new class schedule for July, August & September on our website at http://www.myhealthpassport.org/

Our summer schedule is jam-packed with informative, fun, & exciting classes and excursions. Here are a few JULY HIGHLIGHTS:

Engineers Without Borders
Thinking locally, acting globally, the Denver Chapter of Engineers Without Borders “reaches out from the Rockies” to provide clean water and sanitation to villages in Ecuador, Togo, and Madagascar. Learn a little about the geography and cultures in these remote places and how EWB Denver continues to make a difference with some pretty simple but innovative engineering ideas. Their efforts include teaching the villagers how to fix and maintain the water and sanitation systems that are built, making the projects more sustainable.
Tuesday, July 13th 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood, CO 80226
No Fee
Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921

Medicare Savings Plans and the Low Income Subsidy
Are you paying almost $100 for your Medicare Part B premium and having it taken out of your Social Security check? Having trouble paying your Medicare Part D premium for your prescriptions or the co-pays? There may be help available if you qualify. We will discuss programs that can help and see if we can help you or someone you know who is having trouble making ends meet. Health Passport does not recommend, endorse, or promote any insurance company, policy, or agent.
Wednesday, July 21 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134, 14500 W. Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80401
No Fee
Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921

Cardiovascular Health for Women
Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. The signs of danger in your vascular system can be subtle or can grab your attention quickly. Learn to recognize the signs and what to do when symptoms arise.
Thursday, July 22nd 6:30 - 8:00 PM
St. Anthony North Hospital, 2551 W 84th Ave, Westminster, CO 80031
No Fee
Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921

Questions? Feel free to email or call us at 303-629-4921

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

What's New at Health Passport?

Caring Conversations: The Beginning
This all-day session will give you the tools you need to care for someone else - a spouse, a parent, another family member or a friend. Find resources to help you cope, learn basic information about legal and financial issues, learn to take care of yourself, and more. Lunch included.
Saturday, May 15th 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Catholic Charities
4045 Pecos Street
Denver, CO 80211
$10 Donation suggested
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921
Basics of Microsoft Excel
A hands-on beginners class that will teach you to create spreadsheets and charts, create formulas, use of borders and shading and how to insert a chart. A two session, hands-on class.
Wednesdays, May 12th & 19th
5:30 - 7:30 PM
Kuhlman Building, St. Anthony Central Hospital
Fee: $20
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Historical Ghosts and Phantoms

To some ghosts are no fear, but to others, ghosts are the fear that keeps us up at night. Now, I know what some of you may be thinking, “I’m not afraid of ghosts” or “Ghosts aren’t real” but you don’t actually know until you have witnessed it yourself. However many things can be debunked, what this means is that some things can be rationalized, but this is what we humans do, we like to investigate things, figure out the answers to unsolved questions that we sometimes cannot explain.
But let’s get to the real thing here; I’m talking about suspected ghosts in the state of Colorado.
Now you don’t have to be from Colorado to know its wide range of history, although we may seem like a forgotten or small state we have a lot to talk about, the beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains, great fishing, beautiful trails and campsites, and our quaint and friendly towns. But we also have a history of paranormal activity, like for instance, the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. This famous and historic hotel is known for its gorgeous view of the valley town, Estes Park, its grand rooms and fancy gilded lobby.
This hotel was built in 1909; it was built to be a Georgian style resort, much like the resorts on the Eastern Seaboard, its great for weddings, galas, and receptions. This hotel is also known for its famous client, author Stephen King and his chilling book “The Shining.” This book was written in Room 217 of the Stanley Hotel, but if you’re looking for a real scare then request Room 418, for this room is widely known for its haunting ghosts that do “go bump in the night.” Also, the entire 4th floor of the Stanley has been actively reported to be haunted by the sounds of children playing, even when there are no children….suspicious, isn’t it?
This hotel is also said to be haunted by the original owners of the Stanley, the actual F.O and Flora Stanley are said to ‘watch’ over the hotel. F.O can also be heard playing the piano in the Stanley’s music room, or is more commonly seen in the billiards room and lobby.
So when you happen to stumble upon the Stanley Hotel on your weekend getaway, try Room 418, you might just see a ghost, don’t worry they’re friendly.

If you’re a thrill seeker you might also want to try the also very historic Boulderado hotel in Boulder, Colorado. This hotel opened New Years day 1909, and for a $1.00-2.50 a night, you couldn’t complain. But now it is said to be haunted by ghosts and phantoms, so yes Colorado does have some ghosts to talk about. So whenever you happen to come to Colorado, please stop on by these historic and haunted hotels.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Sloan's Lake

This rare body of water is viewed as a wonder, peaceful, unpopulated. But on the other side of things seen as trashed, loaded with goose feces, and crowded. There are black and white views on the lake just on the northwest side of Denver, but no one can judge until they have been there and experienced it. For the coastal native who wishes for water, Sloan's Lake Park is where you can go to pretend that Denver is a city surrounded by water. The true history may not ever be fully known, but the story is that during the settlement of Denver in the late 19th century, there was no lake anywhere near there. That is until a homesteader, named Thomas F. Sloan was given a patent from the United States President in December of 1866. He was into farming raising cattle, and other agricultural purposes. That led to the day when he decided to dig a well in the land and ended up hitting an underground aquifer. Totally unaware he woke up the next morning and found he now had a lake. Sooner or later a new lake would be joined to Sloan’s Lake; Cooper Lake. The total size of the two lakes’s combined and known as Sloan’s Lake is 177 acres. It is a great place to do anything outside including hiking, jogging, bicycling, and even fishing and boating on the lake itself. They even have an annual event called the Dragon Boat Festival. This festivity is very popular and attracts thousands of visitors during the summer. They celebrate Asian American culture and its civilization. So take a nice relaxing walk around the lake, get some fresh air, take in the sights, and enjoy the people. You won’t be disappointed.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

April - June Course Schedule

Be the first to register for Health Passport classes in April, May & June!! Our latest & greatest course schedule is now online. You can find it on our website, www.myhealthpassport.org

Check it out now!

DEAL OF THE WEEK!

DISCOUNT DENVER NUGGETS TICKETS

Denver Nuggets vs. Portland Trail Blazers
**SUPER SAVER GAME**
Thursday, April 1st – 8:30pm

TICKETS:
Upper Level Seats - $10/seat (face value $38)
Lower Level Seats - $35/seat (face value $78)
VIP Club Level- $50/seat (face value $82)
** no taxes or fees are added to orders **

To order discount upper and lower level tickets online, click on link below
http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/portlandss/

To order discount club level tickets online, click on link below
http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/portlandclubss/



Denver Nuggets vs. L.A. Clippers
Saturday, April 3rd – 7:00pm

TICKETS:
Family Night/Party Pack Tickets - $17.25/seat (face value $38)
**Each ticket includes a FREE drink and food voucher**
(food vouchers are good for hot dogs, pizza, nacho deluxe, salad,
philly cheese steaks, hamburgers, or chicken fingers w/ fries)

To order discount tickets online, click on link below
http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/gfn1/

Other locations/games are available at a discount. Please call to inquire.

To order by phone, please call
Brady McIntyre at 303.405.7635

* All tickets will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. Tickets are subject to availability.
* No additional taxes or fees will be assigned to orders.
* All Sales are final – No returns or exchanges.
* Discount prices are a unique opportunity to watch the Nuggets at the best price in town.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Archaeology 101

Greetings!

In this blog I'm going to inform you about Archaeology and what makes it so exciting! Although the Indiana Jones Series is a very good movie saga story about a wild, charismatic archaeologist who travels the world in search of priceless artifacts, it doesn’t depict the true reality of being an Archaeologist. Archaeology can be very exciting, however, even if you don’t get to carry a leather whip and have an attractive sidekick! There are many adventures involved in archaeology.

Think of yourself at a popular archaeological site, like the Mayan ruins Chichen Itza, or the Egyptian pyramids like the Great Pyramid of Giza. You’ve always wondered what was in those temples and large stone structures, but the only thing holding you back was the rope that was closing you off from these amazing sites. Archaeologists get to go “behind the scenes” and past the guide rope into these ancient buildings to discover relics and artifacts that our ancient ancestors left behind. Archaeologists go all across the globe on different dig sites to search for things that seem manmade or important to our knowledge of our history. How exciting would it be to go to places like The Valley of the Kings in Egypt or Tulum in Mexico? Or what about the Ellora Caves in India or to see the incredible 8,000 Terracotta Army in China?

So many things have yet to be found, but archaeologists are on a budget. It requires a lot of money and time to get the approval to excavate an area. Archaeologists have to have a broad knowledge of our world history or a particular culture and civilization that you are studying. Even though many people don’t enjoy history, it really is what made us the way we are today. What most people don’t realize that history is last year, last month, yesterday, and history was even 5 minutes ago, that’s how history is made. That’s how archaeologists think; they keep their minds open to new things, new ideas and answers to ancient clues.

Archaeologists are like detectives, they investigate ancient crime scenes and look for clues and hidden answers to all of our history questions. One of my favorite archaeologists and “detectives” is Howard Carter; he is the archaeologist that discovered King Tutankhamen’s tomb which was one of the most well-preserved tombs in all of Egypt. He discovered it on November 26, 1922, which in my opinion is one of the coolest archaeologists that I have ever researched about.

In this post I have talked about many things that I like about archaeologists and what they are about, I find it to be one of the coolest jobs in the world to contribute something and to give our world some answers about our ancestors. Knowledge is power, and I think we wouldn’t have the knowledge if our ancestors didn’t think about it, Mayans with their infinite knowledge of the universe and their ‘know how’ of astronomy, Greeks with their knowledge of philosophy and mathematics. The Japanese with knowledge of war tactics and the use of poetry and zen. The Babylonians and their use of trade of goods and crops, Egyptians and their essential knowledge of cultivating and harvesting in the desert. Incredible people, all across the globe, our past makes the future to make this Earth a better place.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Origins of Volleyball

Volleyball was originally called "mintonette" and was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan. It was created for businessmen as a game that involved less physical contact. The sport was designed from a combination of basketball, baseball, tennis and handball.

The Original Rules:

~Called for a net 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) high, a 25×50 ft (7.6×15.2 m) court
~Any number of players
~A match was composed of nine innings with three serves for each team in each inning
~No limit to the number of ball contacts for each team before sending the ball to the opponents’ court. In case of a serving error, a second try was allowed
~Hitting the ball into the net was considered a foul (with loss of the point or a side-out)—except in the case of the first-try serve.

The first exhibition match in 1896 was played at the International YMCA Training School at Springfield College, and after that rules were slightly modified and it spread across the country. There was some dispute over what year the official ball had been used created by Spalding. It was between the years of 1896-1900. The sport of volleyball was spreading rapidly and the next country outside the United States to adopt volleyball was Canada in 1900. It became popular and by the mid 1900's the first World Championships were held in 1949 for men and 1952 for women. The sport is now popular in Brazil, Europe such as Italy, the Netherlands,and countries from Eastern Europe, in Russia, China and the rest of Asia. After normal indoor volleyball had gotten big, the ideas of beach volleyball and even Olympic volleyball had emerged in the late 1900's.

It is known as one of the most well-loved sports in the world currently, and it is amazing how much the game has changed and how much work was put into to make it so successful.

Monday, March 1, 2010

HEALTH PASSPORT DEAL OF THE WEEK!

Health Passport

Discount Tickets

2 Great Games

(Includes the final Super Saver game of the season)

Denver Nuggets vs. Portland Trailblazers

** old friends and new rivals Andre Miller and Marcus Camby are in town **

Sunday, March 7th – 8:30pm

TICKETS:

Upper Level - $24.50/seat (face value $38)

(each ticket includes a FREE beer/soda and t-shirt)

VIP Club Level - $50/seat (face value $82)

** no taxes or fees are added to orders **

To order discount upper level tickets online, click on link below

http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/portlandexclusive/

To order discount club level tickets online, click on link below

http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/portlandclubs/

Other locations/games are available at a discount. Please call to inquire.

Denver Nuggets vs. Washington Wizards

** SUPER SAVER GAME **

Tuesday, March 16th – 7:00pm

TICKETS:

Upper Level - $10/seat (face value $38)

Lower Level - $35/seat (face value $78)

VIP Club Level - $35/seat (face value $82)

** no taxes or fees are added to orders **

To order discount upper and lower level tickets online, click on link below

http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/wizardsss1/

To order discount club level tickets online, click on link below

http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/nuggets/wizardsclubss/

Other locations/games are available at a discount. Please call to inquire.

To order by phone, please call
Brady McIntyre at 303.405.7635


* All tickets will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. Tickets are subject to availability.

* No additional taxes or fees will be assigned to orders.

* Discount prices are a unique opportunity to watch the Nuggets at the best price in town.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

February: Heart Health Awareness Month

February is Heart Health Awareness Month, we all have things that we care about; your love on Valentine’s Day, what gift to give to the one that you admire, but one of the greatest gifts of all is the gift of a strong, healthy heart. What could we do to not only expand our love for others but also expand our love for our own heart during this lovely season? The best thing to do is be aware of the problems that can leave your heart, ‘heart broken.’

Bad Cholesterol and how you can manage it.

The key to living a long, healthy lifetime with a strong heart is more than simple, of course you want to live long with your sweetheart, so why risk the chance with bad cholesterol?

One of the worst things is having abnormal, bad cholesterol, which can increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Abnormal or high levels of bad cholesterol, in other words Low-Density Lipoproteins can lead to these problems. A good way to avoid this is raising your good cholesterol (High-Density-Lipoproteins), through a good cholesterol diet and exercise, both of which are needed to acquire a healthy heart.

You might be thinking, “How could I stick to something like this?” This is a very simple step, before you grab the box of chocolates that you got this Valentine’s Day, grab a garbage bag and throw it away. Head to your refrigerator and pantry and start throwing away anything that contains LDL’s (Low-Density Lipoproteins) and you’re on your way to a healthy heart. Consider buying healthier foods, with polyunsaturated fats (which are commonly found in seeds and nuts) and monounsaturated fats (which are found in olive and canola oils). Another great switch would be soy foods and products, because soy is known to lower LDL’ and have healing properties. These are great alternatives to Trans and Saturated fats which are terrible for your heart. This will enable you to get more HDL’s (High-Density Lipoproteins) and eventually a healthier heart.

Vitamin D and it’s Benefits

As we get older, it’s good to keep an eye on what vitamins you are getting from the food you are taking in. Many wouldn’t know but Vitamin D has been known to reduce your risk of stroke or heart attack. The human body also produces Vitamin D naturally through direct sunlight, but it is also good to know what foods contain this essential vitamin. Butter, margarine, cheese, fortified milk and cereal all contain Vitamin D.

Another fact, found in recent studies, show that African-American people are more likely to have lower levels of Vitamin D and have a higher risk of dying from stroke or heart attack than whites. Reason being is that people with darker skin tones produce less Vitamin D from sunlight than whites do, meaning that African-Americans are at a higher risk of death from cardiovascular diseases.

Exercise

Not all of us enjoy exercise, but it keeps us agile and fit, as well as our heart. Inactive bodies lead to an unhealthy heart and put you at a higher risk of obtaining heart disease. Aerobic exercise is the most beneficial for the heart, here are some examples of the benefits that Aerobic exercise has on the body:
• It can strengthen your heart and the cardiovascular system
• It also improves circulation through the body and allows you to breath easier.
• Improve and diminish heart failure symptoms
• Improvement in energy, which allows you to do more activities without being short of breath.
• It also increases endurance
• Lowers your overall blood pressure
• See results in your strength and tones your muscles
• Increases balance and joint flexibility
• Strengthens your bones
• Reduces body fat to maintain or acquire a healthy weight
• Reduces stress, feelings of depression, tension and anxiety
• Builds self-esteem and a better self image
• Improvement in sleep
• Feeling of relaxation and rested
• Makes you look fit and feel healthy

How do you get started?

Make a change in your medications and start taking vitamins that are good for taking up exercise. Ask your doctor if normal exercise is safe for you and which vitamins and medications is best for exercise.

If you are going to do heavy lifting, only do what you are able to do, otherwise it is not safe and can seriously damage your muscles.

Make sure that the exercises are safe enough for you; get approval from your doctor before you decide to weight lift. There are alternatives to weight lifting, swimming, jogging or use a weight machine.

Examples of aerobic exercise are jogging, bicycling, walking, jumping rope, cross-county skiing, low impact aerobics and water aerobics.
Set up a workout schedule that will give you maximum benefits; try 20-30 minute sessions at least three to four times a week.
Make sure to stretch before and after every workout to maintain flexibility in the muscles and keep you from muscle strain.

Aerobics helps the heart the most and can better improve the use of oxygen throughout the body and respiratory system. It will strengthen your heart and expand your lungs, which allow you to do more things without being short of breath.

Diet

Many of us might think dieting is just too hard for us, but it is not just a diet, it is a lifestyle choice. The changes are tough but that is what makes a healthier heart and a healthier you. Here are 7 steps to start a Heart-Healthy Diet:

1. Remove unhealthy fats and cholesterols

A recommendation would be to limit your Saturated fat intake to only 7% of your daily amount of calories and only 1% for Tran’s fat. As for cholesterol you should only have 200 milligrams a day for your daily LDL intake.

2. Choose low-fat protein

You should only have what your body needs, coldwater fish like salmon is exceptionally good for you, skinless chicken or turkey, soy products, egg whites and low-fat dairy products.

3. Consume more vegetables and fruits

Frozen fruits and vegetables are very good for the body as well as fresh produce. Stay away from fruits that are canned in syrups and instead stick to water or juice canned fruits and vegetables.

4. Eat whole grain

Stay away from bleached and whitened breads and select more wheat and whole oat breads and cereals instead for a healthier choice. Whole-grain is high in fiber and nutrients like zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and Vitamin E.

5. Reduce salt

Consuming too much salt can higher your risk-factors for obtaining cardiovascular diseases and raise blood pressure, instead choose healthier substitutes. Like for example, herbs and spices, salt substitutes, foods low in sodium, and foods that have reduced sodium contents.

6. Stick to moderation

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, moderation is key, going back for seconds and eating until you are full isn’t good for the body. Portion sizes will help maintain, cholesterol and calorie intake. A good rule of thumb for eating any fish, poultry and meat is that it should only be about the size of a deck of cards, leaving enough room for a serving of vegetables and fruit.

7. Create weekly menus

Creating a weekly menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner for 7 days will spare the stress of worrying what to eat for the day. It will make your grocery shopping list easier and you will have enough food for the entire week. Remember to stick with the diet plan, a correctly portioned meal and a snack. Also remember to put some variety into your meals (ex. Have salmon one night and a turkey burger the next night, etc.). Incorporate this into your lifestyle along with exercise and a healthy heart is only a beat away.




Did you know that Men are at a Higher Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death?

Recent statistics from the American Heart Association or the AHA has found that men could be at a higher risk of sudden cardiac death. Some facts are shown:

• Men 40 years of age and over have a 1 in 8 chance of dying from cardiac related deaths than women, and the risk is even higher for African-American men.
• In some 300,000 people, about 3,000-5,000 cardiac deaths are found in children, young adults and adolescents. But some cases seem to be inherited.
• People that have risk factors for cardiac related death are, high-blood pressure, smoking cigarettes and high cholesterol.


This month is all about being aware of your heart and its health. So get to the heart of the matter on this one and give your heart a hand.

February is Heart Health Month

February is Heart Health Awareness Month, we all have things that we care about; your love on Valentine’s Day, what gift to give to the one that you admire, but one of the greatest gifts of all is the gift of a strong, healthy heart. What could we do to not only expand our love for others but also expand our love for our own heart during this lovely season? The best thing to do is be aware of the problems that can leave your heart, ‘heart broken.’

Bad Cholesterol and how you can manage it.

The key to living a long, healthy lifetime with a strong heart is more than simple, of course you want to live long with your sweetheart, so why risk the chance with bad cholesterol?

One of the worst things is having abnormal, bad cholesterol, which can increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Abnormal or high levels of bad cholesterol, in other words Low-Density Lipoproteins can lead to these problems. A good way to avoid this is raising your good cholesterol (High-Density-Lipoproteins), through a good cholesterol diet and exercise, both of which are needed to acquire a healthy heart.

You might be thinking, “How could I stick to something like this?” This is a very simple step, before you grab the box of chocolates that you got this Valentine’s Day, grab a garbage bag and throw it away. Head to your refrigerator and pantry and start throwing away anything that contains LDL’s (Low-Density Lipoproteins) and you’re on your way to a healthy heart. Consider buying healthier foods, with polyunsaturated fats (which are commonly found in seeds and nuts) and monounsaturated fats (which are found in olive and canola oils). Another great switch would be soy foods and products, because soy is known to lower LDL’ and have healing properties. These are great alternatives to Trans and Saturated fats which are terrible for your heart. This will enable you to get more HDL’s (High-Density Lipoproteins) and eventually a healthier heart.

Vitamin D and its Benefits

As we get older, it’s good to keep an eye on what vitamins you are getting from the food you are taking in. Many wouldn’t know but Vitamin D has been known to reduce your risk of stroke or heart attack. The human body also produces Vitamin D naturally through direct sunlight, but it is also good to know what foods contain this essential vitamin. Butter, margarine, cheese, fortified milk and cereal all contain Vitamin D.

Another fact, found in recent studies, show that African-American people are more likely to have lower levels of Vitamin D and have a higher risk of dying from stroke or heart attack than whites. Reason being is that people with darker skin tones produce less Vitamin D from sunlight than whites do, meaning that African-Americans are at a higher risk of death from cardiovascular diseases.

Exercise

Not all of us enjoy exercise, but it keeps us agile and fit, as well as our heart. Inactive bodies lead to an unhealthy heart and put you at a higher risk of obtaining heart disease. Aerobic exercise is the most beneficial for the heart, here are some examples of the benefits that Aerobic exercise has on the body:
• It can strengthen your heart and the cardiovascular system
• It also improves circulation through the body and allows you to breath
easier
• Improve and diminish heart failure symptoms
• Improvement in energy, which allows you to do more activities without being
short of breath.
• It also increases endurance
• Lowers your overall blood pressure
• See results in your strength and tones your muscles
• Increases balance and joint flexibility
• Strengthens your bones
• Reduces body fat to maintain or acquire a healthy weight
• Reduces stress, feelings of depression, tension and anxiety
• Builds self-esteem and a better self image
• Improvement in sleep
• Feeling of relaxation and rested
• Makes you look fit and feel healthy

How do you get started?

Make a change in your medications and start taking vitamins that are good for taking up exercise. Ask your doctor if normal exercise is safe for you and which vitamins and medications is best for exercise.

If you are going to do heavy lifting, only do what you are able to do, otherwise it is not safe and can seriously damage your muscles.

Make sure that the exercises are safe enough for you; get approval from your doctor before you decide to weight lift. There are alternatives to weight lifting, swimming, jogging or use a weight machine.

Examples of aerobic exercise are jogging, bicycling, walking, jumping rope, cross-county skiing, low impact aerobics and water aerobics.
Set up a workout schedule that will give you maximum benefits; try 20-30 minute sessions at least three to four times a week.
Make sure to stretch before and after every workout to maintain flexibility in the muscles and keep you from muscle strain.

Aerobics helps the heart the most and can better improve the use of oxygen throughout the body and respiratory system. It will strengthen your heart and expand your lungs, which allow you to do more things without being short of breath.

Diet

Many of us might think dieting is just too hard for us, but it is not just a diet, it is a lifestyle choice. The changes are tough but that is what makes a healthier heart and a healthier you. Here are 7 steps to start a Heart-Healthy Diet:

1. Remove unhealthy fats and cholesterols

A recommendation would be to limit your Saturated fat intake to only 7% of your daily amount of calories and only 1% for Tran’s fat. As for cholesterol you should only have 200 milligrams a day for your daily LDL intake.

2. Choose low-fat protein

You should only have what your body needs, coldwater fish like salmon is exceptionally good for you, skinless chicken or turkey, soy products, egg whites and low-fat dairy products.

3. Consume more vegetables and fruits

Frozen fruits and vegetables are very good for the body as well as fresh produce. Stay away from fruits that are canned in syrups and instead stick to water or juice canned fruits and vegetables.

4. Eat whole grain

Stay away from bleached and whitened breads and select more wheat and whole oat breads and cereals instead for a healthier choice. Whole-grain is high in fiber and nutrients like zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and Vitamin E.

5. Reduce salt

Consuming too much salt can higher your risk-factors for obtaining cardiovascular diseases and raise blood pressure, instead choose healthier substitutes. Like for example, herbs and spices, salt substitutes, foods low in sodium, and foods that have reduced sodium contents.

6. Stick to moderation

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, moderation is key, going back for seconds and eating until you are full isn’t good for the body. Portion sizes will help maintain, cholesterol and calorie intake. A good rule of thumb for eating any fish, poultry and meat is that it should only be about the size of a deck of cards, leaving enough room for a serving of vegetables and fruit.

7. Create weekly menus

Creating a weekly menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner for 7 days will spare the stress of worrying what to eat for the day. It will make your grocery shopping list easier and you will have enough food for the entire week. Remember to stick with the diet plan, a correctly portioned meal and a snack. Also remember to put some variety into your meals (ex. Have salmon one night and a turkey burger the next night, etc.). Incorporate this into your lifestyle along with exercise and a healthy heart is only a beat away.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Wednesday Scoop! Upcoming Health Passport Classes

Engage Your Brain: How It All Works

Dr. Katherine Kaye knows all about the brain - and in this session she will share with you the key functions of how it works. From an explanation of anatomy to where memory is located, learn how a brain functions and what you can do to keep your brain in tip-top shape.

Tuesday, February 16th 1:00-2:00 PM

Health Passport Office, 4200 W. Conejos Place, Denver, CO 80204

No Fee

Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921


Reading: Brain & Soul Food

This bi-weekly Health Passport book club will explore a wide variety of topics & interests! Group will choose titles at the meetings. Call Health Passport to find out what we're reading now! Light snacks provided. Group meets twice each month on the second and fourth Tuesdays.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7:00-8:30 PM

Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134

No Fee
Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921


The Basics of Microsoft Excel

This class is for folks who have not had any experience with Microsoft Excel. Students will learn to create spreadsheets and charts, create formulas, use borders and shading and how to insert a chart. A two session, hands-on class.

Wednesdays, February 17 & 24 3:15 - 5:15 PM

Kuhlman Building Computer Lab

Fee: $20

Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921

Getting "Hip" to Joint Replacement Surgery
Total hip replacement is a common orthopedic procedure. As the population ages, it is expected to become even more common. Osteoarthritis of the hip is the most common reason for a hip replacement. Find out the causes, symptoms and treatment options firsthand from a physician from Panorama Orthopedics.

Saturday, February 20th 9:30-11:00 AM

Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134

No Fee
Reservations required, please reply to this email or call 303-629-4921


Find all of our classes HERE: Health Passport January-March 2010 course schedule

Thursday, January 28, 2010

DISCOUNTED AVALANCHE TICKETS

KeyBank Presents - Colorado Avalanche Group Sales Appreciation Night

Special Offer For Health Passport!

Colorado Avalanche vs. Atlanta Thrashers
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010
7:00pm

KeyBank has reserved the rights to 500 seats for this game in appreciation of groups that support the Colorado Avalanche. For this game only, ticket purchasers will pay a dramatically discounted price and KeyBank will pick up the difference. Hurry, this is a limited promotion and seats will go fast.

Lower Level Seats - $40 (original price $94)
Upper Level Seats - $20 (original $58)

To order your tickets, please click on this link:
http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/avalanche/avsblowout/

To order by phone, please call Gretchen at 303-405-1154.

Bring your group to see the Avalanche and experience the exciting action live at Pepsi Center!

There are no ticket minimums. Availability is limited – order today!

Any questions? Please call your Avalanche ticket rep Gretchen Dorfman at 303-405-1154 or respond to this email.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Positive Mind, Healthy Heart

Health Passport presents a day of caring for your heart! Speaker Robert Landau, a Health Passport favorite, will pull at your heart-strings with his tales of the World's Greatest Lovers.

Nationally-renowned speaker Joe Piscatella also has a story to tell! Joe will present “Positive Mind, Healthy Heart: Stress Management for Bailout Times.” Author of eleven books and host of three PBS television specials, Joe’s story of surviving coronary bypass surviving at age 32, and managing his heart disease for another 32 years, will help give you the tools you need to reduce the effect of your stress-filled lives on your cardiac health.

Date: Friday, February 12th, 2010
Time: 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: Copper Fields Event Chateau
4901 Marshall Street
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Cost: $25, including lunch

Must RSVP: Please call St. Anthony Hospitals Health Passport at 303-629-4921 to register.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

The Wednesday Scoop! Upcoming Health Passport Classes

Reading: Brain & Soul Food
This bi-weekly Health Passport book club will explore a wide variety of topics & interests! Bring a list of books you'd like to read! Light snacks provided. Group meets twice each month on the second and fourth Tuesdays.
Next date: Tuesday, January 26th 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Book: Memory Keeper's Daughter, by Kim Edwards
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134
No Fee
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Stroke Screenings
Assess your stroke risk by attending this screening event and discuss your results with a Registered Nurse and a Dietitian or Nutritionist. Learn your numbers: Cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglycerides. No insurance required.
Wednesday, January 27th 8:00 - 11:00 AM
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134
No Fee
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Social Media: Creating a LinkedIn Profile
Did you know that you are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn if you have a complete profile? Learn step by step in this interactive hands-on computer workshop to create an effective profile that draws prospects, customers, power partners or hiring managers to find you. Understand the basics of social media and optimize your profile with keyword enriched descriptions. Also learn to update your status to look like the expert you are in your field and much more.
Tuesday, February 2nd 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134
Fee : $10
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Twitter: Tweet With Us!
One of the hottest social networks these days making headline news. Social media is all about being nice, sharing, etc. And so is twitter but you can only say it in 140 characters – easy micro blogging at it’s best. Learn to develop your profile, market yourself, find jobs, quality followers, and look like an expert with a small effort. You’ll be addicted.
Wednesdays, February 3rd & 10th 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Kuhlman Building Computer Lab
Fee: $20
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

The Wednesday Scoop!

Each Wednesday we highlight classes for YOU coming up at Health Passport. Here's this week's SCOOP!


The New St. Anthony Hospital
Director of SAC Facilities Management will present a look at the new hospital. Learn it's current stage of construction and the new & exciting future of our hospital.
Tuesday, January 19th 1:30 - 3:00 PM
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134
No Fee
Reservations required, please email
myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Reflexology 101
These ancient healing techniques promote relaxation, improve your circulation, and are profoundly relaxing. These techniques are also highly effective for stress and pain management.
Wednesday, January 20th 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Colorado Mills Mall, Space 134
No Fee
Reservations required, please email
myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921

Empty Those Closets! Selling on the Web
Ready for some premature spring cleaning? Your treasure might find its new home thousands of miles away! Get the details from our Ebay and Craigslist power seller. A two session, hands-on class.
Wednesdays, January 20th & 27th 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Kuhlman Building Computer Lab
Fee: $20
Reservations required, please email myhealthpassport@centura.org or call 303-629-4921