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MAY 2025
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It Starts With Your ‘Thinker’ MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MEANS UNDERSTANDING THE BRAIN
Why do mental health discussions rarely include the actual physical health of the brain? While focusing on emotions, behaviors, and coping strategies is crucial, they frequently, and quite surprisingly, overlook the essential organ behind it all. During Mental Health Awareness Month, it is critical to spotlight how understanding and caring for brain health can transform how we approach emotional and cognitive well-being. Why Brain Imaging Matters In most medical disciplines, imaging plays a central role in diagnosis. Cardiologists examine the heart before treatment. Dentists use X-rays before filling a cavity. Yet in psychiatry, the brain — the very organ being treated — is often not examined at all. This is a critical oversight. Dr. Daniel Amen of Amen Clinics has long advocated for brain imaging as part of mental health diagnosis and treatment. His video talk, “The Most Important Lesson from 83,000 Brain Scans,” explains how brain imaging has revealed multiple patterns of activity linked to conditions like ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). He reveals that there are actually at least seven types of ADHD, each requiring a different approach. Yet, traditional treatment rarely reflects this complexity. Personalized Medicine Means Smarter Outcomes As a dentist, if two patients come into our clinic with toothaches, one due to a cavity and the other caused by gum disease,
would I treat them the same? Absolutely not. The same logic should apply to brain-related symptoms. Brain imaging allows for personalized treatment of various mental health concerns so you have access to a tailored treatment plan instead of the frustrating cycle of trial and error many people experience when dealing with medication. That’s why I’m proud to say that Great Smiles of New Jersey is partnering with Amen Clinics to spotlight this innovative treatment and help more patients find relief. To learn more about Dr. Amen and his work, visit AmenClinics.com. Physical Fitness and Mental Resilience In addition to brain scans, physical health is deeply intertwined with mental wellness. Studies consistently show that exercise reduces stress, balances mood- regulating hormones, and improves cognitive performance. I even dedicate time to incorporate physical activity into my routine to support not only my physical health but my brain health! Exercise is such an incredible practice for maintaining overall health, even dental health, and that’s why our practice is proud to partner with GameChanger Fitness, helping patients strengthen their bodies and, in turn, their minds. Oral Health and the Brain Just as your brain can affect your oral health, the reverse is equally true! Sleep apnea, airway issues, and poor craniofacial development in children can all contribute to disrupted sleep, mood
changes, and difficulty concentrating. In adults, untreated dental problems may lead to inflammation, which is linked to cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s disease. Through airway assessments, dental interventions, and sleep-focused treatments, we support our patients’ overall health and help prevent long- term neurological complications. A Holistic Vision for Patient Wellness Mental health is not isolated from physical health. Whether managing ADHD, navigating the complexities of a neurodegenerative disease, or simply trying to improve your emotional well- being, your brain health is a crucial starting point. It’s time we started embracing comprehensive care, and we’re doing our part by partnering with Amen Clinics and GameChanger Fitness. Our goal is always to offer a patient- centered approach that connects oral, physical, and mental health. We are taking meaningful steps toward caring for our patients not just as smiles but as whole, thriving individuals.
And that is worth smiling about.
To your great smiles and better health,
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Your Midlife Molecules Are Revolting TIME TO TAKE CONTROL
No matter what we do, we can’t stop time. We grow a little older as every minute, hour, and day passes. We might not feel older mentally, but our bodies don’t move as well as they used to. It seems like it would happen as a slow, natural progression, but many people report feeling an onset of aging once they cross certain thresholds. A recent study by Stanford University researchers found that our bodies age faster when we enter our mid-40s and early 60s than at any other point in life. The study reviewed data from 108 people who donated blood and other biological samples throughout several years. Through their efforts, researchers found that nearly 81% of the studied molecules demonstrated age-related fluctuations when subjects reached their mid-40s and early 60s. Both age groups sustained molecule changes related to cardiovascular disease, caffeine metabolism, and skin and muscle groups. Those in their mid-40s saw changes related to alcohol metabolism, and those in their early 60s had changes in immune regulation and kidney function.
The results of the study may make you feel powerless to stop these molecular changes once you reach these specific ages. However, like most health-related scenarios, you can take action to help offset age-related changes. Maintaining a balanced diet is one of the best ways to do this. You can eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins to improve and maintain your heart health. Eggs, chicken breast, and salmon can help strengthen your muscles. Citrus, leafy greens, and ginger are great for immune support. If you’re already committed to a healthy diet and are still worried about these changes, incorporate more exercise into your daily routine. Also, remember to get quality sleep. A regular and sound sleep schedule benefits our health in more ways than one.
Aging doesn’t have to be stressful or scary. Knowing what to expect and countering potential obstacles will help you enjoy a long life full of happy moments! SPRING FAMILY PICNICS MADE EASY DITCH THE STRESS, EMBRACE THE FUN
would like to spend the day. A park with open fields and playground equipment keeps kids entertained between bites, but a park isn’t the only option. The beach, a local lake, or a mountain picnic area are all fantastic for a family picnic. Just remember bug spray and sunscreen and find a shady spot on hot days. Don’t overthink the menu. Picnics are all about the food, but that doesn’t mean you have to fuss over the menu. Keep things simple, and choose items that can withstand time outside the cooler. Easy-to-eat options like sandwiches, fruit, and finger foods are tasty and quick to prepare. Add variety with veggies and hummus or cheese and crackers. For an extra treat, grab premade cookies or brownies. Lemonade, juice, and fruit-infused water are refreshing
options and keep everyone hydrated without the caffeine. Bring an insulated cooler for drinks and food, and don’t forget wet wipes for easy cleanup. Create a cozy, kid-friendly setup. The picnic blanket is a great start, but you can take things up a notch with a few extras. Plush blankets, throw pillows, and lawn chairs offer comfortable sitting and lounging options. Pack entertainment as well; outdoor games, like Frisbee and ring toss, and a portable speaker to add to the fun. Don’t forget — it’s about family! Family outings shouldn’t be stressful; the best ones are sometimes the simplest. Instead of worrying about perfect details, focus on spending time together outdoors, relaxing, and enjoying good food and even better company.
When was the last time you gathered the family, threw down a blanket, and enjoyed a meal together in the warm sun? A picnic is the perfect springtime activity, but the planning and food prep can make it seem like more hassle than it’s worth. The truth is, however, that picnics don’t have to be complicated. Here are four tips for planning easy family picnics. Pick the perfect picnic spot. When choosing a location for your picnic, think about how your family
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LIVE LONGER, LIVE SMARTER
Biohack Your Way to a Healthier Future
We all want to live long, healthy lives, but achieving this feat is not as easy as speaking it into existence. It requires intentional actions to extend a lifespan and keep illness and chronic conditions at bay. While diet and exercise play a vital role in our health, a new emerging trend is producing promising results. Biohacking utilizes biology, technology, and self-experimentation to optimize our bodies and minds. One unique aspect of biohacking is personalization. We all have different bodies, so we all need a customized program to maximize our health. To try biohacking, you must first reflect on your health and identify an area you want to improve. You then figure out how to fix that problem area by adjusting your diet, lifestyle, or exercise routine. Then, test your hypothesis, recording detailed results from your efforts. Here are three forms of
biohacking you can try using to boost your brain and body. Get your blood tested. Biohacking is all about making data- driven decisions about your health, but how can you make changes without knowing where your health stands? Blood tests provide insight into what you need to fix and allow you to track
your progress to ensure you’re making significant progress. Experiment with extreme temperatures. Spending time in a sauna is a great way to increase relaxation, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol. However, taking a cold shower or an ice bath could improve circulation, enhance your immune system, reduce inflammation, and more. Add brain games to your daily routine. Your mind is just as important as your body for a long and healthy life. Playing brain games like sudoku, crossword puzzles, and Scrabble can help keep your mind sharp and focus fresh. Phone apps have made it easier than ever to enjoy new brain games! Though there’s a lot of trial and error involved, once you find what works for your body, you’ll never look back. Scan the Code to Access Exclusive Health & Wellness Offers!
Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Lettuce Cups
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
INGREDIENTS • 1 boneless beef chuck roast (about 2 lbs) • 3 medium carrots, peeled, chopped • 2 medium sweet red peppers, chopped • 1 medium onion, chopped • 1 8-oz can unsweetened crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce • 2 tbsp packed brown sugar • 2 tbsp white vinegar • 1 garlic clove, minced • 1/2 tsp pepper • 3 tbsp cornstarch • 3 tbsp water • 24 lettuce leaves for serving
1. In 4- or 5-quart slow cooker, combine roast, carrots, peppers, and onion. 2. In small bowl, stir together the next 6 ingredients; pour over roast. 3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Remove roast, let cool slightly, then shred. 4. Skim fat from cooking juices, then transfer juices and vegetables to a small saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. 5. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water, stir mixture into juices, and cook 3–4 minutes until sauce is thickened. 6. Return beef, sauce, and vegetables to slow cooker; cook for 10–15 minutes. 7. Serve beef in lettuce leaves. DIRECTIONS
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. It’s Time We Rethink Mental Health
2. You Can’t Stop Time, But You Can Slow the Damage Secrets to a Stress-Free Family Picnic 3. The Biohacking Revolution You Can’t Afford to Ignore Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Lettuce Cups
4. Why You Should Focus on Fitness Instead of Weight Loss
Why Fitness Beats BMI in Predicting Long-Term Health For years, we’ve been told that FIT AT ANY SIZE
fitness. Researchers behind this new study argue that aerobic fitness — how efficiently your heart, lungs, and muscles work together — is a much better indicator of health than weight alone. They found that individuals with higher VO2 max, which measures oxygen use during exercise, had significantly lower risks of death. On the flip side, those with lower VO2 max were 2–3 times more likely to die from any cause, regardless of their BMI. The good news? Improving fitness doesn’t require drastic measures. You don’t need to train for a marathon or spend hours in the gym to boost your aerobic health. The key is consistency — moving your body in an enjoyable and sustainable way. Start with simple
maintaining a “healthy” weight is the key to longevity. But new research suggests that fitness — not the number on the scale — is the real game-changer. A 2024 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that people who are physically fit, regardless of their body weight, had a lower risk of death than those who were unfit — even if those unfit individuals had a “normal” BMI. Simply put, being active is far more important than being thin for long-term health. BMI, or body mass index, has long been used to measure health risk, but it only considers weight and height, ignoring more crucial factors like muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and overall
activities like a daily 20-minute walk, gentle stretching, or a few sets of bodyweight exercises. If joint pain is an issue, try swimming or water aerobics, which provide a great workout without putting stress on your knees or hips. Health isn’t about fitting into a certain dress size — it’s about staying active, feeling strong, and making movement a part of your everyday life. So, forget about obsessing over the scale and focus on what matters: moving more and living better.
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