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Renown celebra el Mes del Orgullo y las comunidades LGBTQ+ con amor
Rainbow lights illuminate Renown’s iconic “LOVE” sculpture, and powerful employee stories shared during Pride Month. Reno, Nev. (16 de junio de 2020) – Para celebrar el Mes del Orgullo y las comunidades LGBTQ+ de Reno, la escultura “LOVE” de Renown, una obra de arte de una tonelada de aluminio soldado con letras de 10 pies de alto y 8 pies de ancho, se iluminará con luces LED de los colores del arcoíris durante el mes de junio. La escultura “LOVE” se encuentra en la entrada principal del Renown Regional Medical Center, en Mill Street en 1155 Mill Street in Reno, Nevada, y es visible para los vehículos y peatones a lo largo de los corredores de Mill Street y Ryland Street. Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown says, “At Renown, we are proud to support our LGBTQ+ communities. During Pride Month and beyond, we are honored to offer an inclusive, safe environment for our staff and patients—one that celebrates diversity in all its forms. La escultura “LOVE” ya ha traído una luz resplandeciente a nuestro mundo, y estoy deseando ver la alegría que traerá a todos los que la vean con los colores del arcoíris”. Para conmemorar el Mes del Orgullo, Renown se ha comprometido a destacar a algunas de las personas LGBTQ+ que son parte de sus 7,000 empleados. Sean Savoy, director de Atención Espiritual de Renown, comparte cómo sus experiencias como hombre gay afectan positivamente a su carrera en sanación espiritual y a la compasión que muestra a los demás. “La base de la atención espiritual es la compasión: acompañar a las personas necesitadas al prestarles atención, darles apoyo y demostrarles empatía, y promover un sentido de bienestar”, afirmó Savoy. Ser miembro de la comunidad LGBTQ+ aporta ese profundo sentido de compasión y empatía de una manera muy especial y única. He descubierto que la convergencia de mi yo gay y mi yo espiritual ha sido una bendición en mi vida”. La escultura “LOVE”, creada por la artista Laura Kimpton y fabricada por Jeff Schomberg, apareció por primera vez en Burning Man, en 2019. Gracias a una asociación con la organización sin fines de lucro Artown, la escultura se inauguró en Renown en abril de 2020 y, desde entonces, ha servido como símbolo de esperanza y determinación para el personal del hospital, los pacientes y los miembros de la comunidad durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Generosos donantes y la Renown Health Foundation financiaron la instalación de la escultura. ### About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org. Media Contact: Public Relations M: 775-691-7308 E: news@renown.org
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Renown Health concede subvenciones a organizaciones del área que abordan la diversidad y la inclusión
Funds used to support those addressing demographic diversity and Social Determinants of Health to improve the health of our community. Renown Health, en consonancia con su misión, visión y valores y con su compromiso de larga data de abordar los determinantes sociales de la salud, ha anunciado hoy que pondrá a disposición hasta $20,000 durante el año fiscal 2020 para financiar proyectos y organizaciones cuyo objetivo sea aumentar la presencia y la participación de las mujeres, las minorías raciales y étnicas, las personas LBGTQ+, las personas con discapacidad, las personas de bajo nivel socioeconómico y otros grupos poco representados. Renown Health strongly prefers proposals that convincingly demonstrate their potential to improve the health and wellness of northern Nevadans. The organization wishes to express its interest in supporting programs that enhance collaboration, health literacy and communication, and enhance cultural competency. “Improving the health of our community is the foundation of our work. Our mission, vision and values are the essence of what makes us Renown. We are committed to fostering an environment of diversity, inclusion and cultural competence where all are appreciated, fully engaged and motivated to make a genuine, positive difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, Renown’s President & CEO. As the Kaiser Family Foundation noted in recent research: “Los investigadores descubrieron que los factores sociales, como la educación, la segregación racial, los apoyos sociales y la pobreza, representaban más de un tercio del total de muertes en los Estados Unidos en un año”. https://www.ajmc.com/contributor/sophia- bernazzani/2016/05/the-importance-of-considering-the-social-determinants-of-health# Annie Zucker, gerente de Impacto Comunitario de Renown, añade: “Los determinantes sociales de la salud tienen una gran repercusión en los resultados de salud, especialmente para las poblaciones más vulnerables. I am proud that Renown, as a not-for-profit healthcare organization, considers social determinants of health to enable more compassionate and comprehensive healthcare for the patients and families we serve.” According to the CDC, it has been well-established that poverty inhibits access to healthy foods and safe neighborhoods, and that higher levels of education influence better health. El impacto de estos factores en la salud se define en Healthy People 2020 como determinantes sociales de la salud: “Social determinants of health are conditions in the environments in which people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks.” When resources are available to overcome negative social determinants of health, they can have a significant impact on improving population health outcomes. “Through diversity, inclusiveness and cultural competence we are able to better understand and respond to the health needs of our communities. We are committed to continually cultivating an environment of cultural inclusiveness. When you have a culture that acknowledges and engages everyone, the opportunities for personal growth and organizational effectiveness are limitless,” said Hector Boirie, MBA, Chief Strategy Officer. “Renown Health provides access to care with dignity and respect for all. We recognize and respect every human being, regardless of race, creed, gender, age, handicap, national origin or ability to pay. We give competent, considerate and respectful care in a safe setting that fosters a person’s comfort and dignity and is free from all forms of abuse and harassment, including gender identity or gender expression,” says Melinda Mendoza, BSN, JD, CPC, CHC, CHPC, Chief Compliance Officer. “This is a Renown Health patient right and we are proud of our organizational commitment.” Renown Health is also an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. “I am so pleased to serve as Renown’s Chief Financial Officer. En los EE. UU., menos del 13 % de los puestos de director financiero están ocupados por mujeres. How proud I am to help lead an organization that focuses on attracting talent based on individual competency and kindness, rather than gender, race, religion or sexual orientation,” says Ann Beck. Renown Health prefiere enfáticamente que las propuestas sumen un total aproximado de $2,500 o menos, ya que prevé financiar a 8 organizaciones. Renown Health ha puesto a disposición esta financiación adicional para el año fiscal 2020. Normalmente, financia proyectos solo durante 6 meses, y recibe las solicitudes de renovación de la financiación en los años posteriores. Se invita a todas las organizaciones 501c3 sin fines de lucro con oficinas que sirvan a los residentes del norte de Nevada a que presenten sus propuestas antes del jueves, 25 de junio de 2020. Renown Health revisará las propuestas y tomará decisiones de financiación antes del lunes, 29 de junio de 2020. Renown Health desembolsará los fondos de las subvenciones antes del martes, 30 de junio de 2020. As non-profit hospitals, Renown must meet community benefit requirements to qualify for tax- exempt status, this includes funding programs that respond to public health needs and improve overall community health. To submit a ‘Renown supports Diversity & Inclusivity grant proposal,’ fill out the grant proposal submission form. Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese con Annie Zucker, gerente de Impacto Comunitario, por correo electrónico a azucker@renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, Renown Children’s Hospital, Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. Visite renown.org para obtener más información.
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Artown Partners with Renown to Bring "Love" Sculpture on Mill St.
The “LOVE” sculpture, a one-ton, welded aluminum artwork with letters 10-feet tall and eight-feet wide, will find a temporary home at Renown Regional Medical Center’s main entrance at 1155 Mill Street in Reno, Nevada. Debuting at Burning Man in 2019, the free-standing structure is wired for illumination, has weighted steel base plates for anchorage and will be visible to vehicular and pedestrian traffic along the Mill Street and Ryland Street corridors. “The overall footprint of the sculpture is 40-feet long by 4-feet deep,” says artist Jeff Schomberg, who has collaborated with artist/designer Laura Kimpton, to create 18 letter-based sculptures— including the popular “BELIEVE” piece at Civic Center Plaza in downtown Reno and the “HOME” sculpture for the Reno Aces at Greater Nevada Field. Each letter in the “LOVE” sculpture took Schomberg three to four weeks to build, and the piece takes on an added dimension when illuminated. “The sculpture is lit from within with color changing LED lights. The combination of the LEDs and the aluminum produce(s) a unique look at night,” Schomberg states. Artist-designer Laura Kimpton, who is dyslexic, says creating monumental word art has been a powerful form of healing and expression. “I can’t tell you how beautiful it is that people will be able to see this work of art at the hospital, contemplate it and be inspired by it,” Kimpton emphasizes. For Artown, inspiring community through the arts is paramount—especially at this moment. “Artown is extremely honored to be able to provide comfort through our partnership with Renown and this incredible work of art by Laura Kimpton and Jeff Schomberg,” says Artown Executive Director Beth Macmillan. “This piece of art and the message of love during these uncertain times, promises to help enlighten, engage and heal the spirits of patients, physicians, nurses and employees at Renown who are fighting the good fight. People passing by the hospital will be warmed and inspired by the art and this one word, LOVE! Now, more than ever, the power of art will provide something beautiful to focus on and restore our confidence.” Providing comfort is in alignment with the non-profit healthcare provider’s mission “to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve…” and is in-step with Renown’s awareness that “during a patient’s most difficult moments, art can be a source of inspiration, comfort and strength.” Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown says, “I have so much respect for artists like Laura and Jeff, and the way they connect with people through their art. Creating and installing this LOVE sculpture is an act of love they are doing for others. Caring for others and their emotions is also an art. I am inspired by the many passionate caregivers today practicing the art of medicine with patients within the walls of our hospitals, practices and homes. I know this work of art will inspire them. My appreciation goes out to all who helped bring this LOVE sculpture and bright light into our world. Art has been an inspiration to me for a long time and I hope that its beauty helps to bring inspiration and comfort to everyone who gets a chance to see it.” Members of the media are invited to attend the inaugural lighting of the LOVE sculpture, taking place on Thursday, April 16 at 8 p.m. at the artwork’s new, temporary location at Renown. Due to social distancing, the lighting will NOT be open to the public, however, a live stream of the event will be available through Renown’s Facebook page. In an effort to shine a light on our healthcare workers, several area businesses and neighborhoods are lighting up in conjunction with the LOVE sculpture lighting. Individuals are invited to do the same by placing an enclosed candle or light outside their home. The installation of the “LOVE” sculpture was funded by generous donors and the Renown Health Foundation. The sculpture will be on display from April 16-July 16 at Renown’s Regional Medical Center, located at 1155 Mill Street, Reno. About Artown Artown is a non-profit organization whose mission is to strengthen Reno’s arts industry, foster its civic identity and enhance its national image, thereby creating a climate for the cultural and economic rebirth of our region. The month-long summer arts festival features approximately 500 events produced by more than 150 artists, cultural organizations and businesses in locations citywide. For more information, go to artown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. Visite renown.org para obtener más información.
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Dreams Foundation Makes $10,500 Donation Benefiting NICU Babies
Hoy, la fundación de Renown Health anunció una entrega especial por parte de Sarah Carmona Zink y la Dreams Foundation, en la que se donaron cientos de pijamas, mantas para recibir a los recién nacidos, gorritos, almohadas para amamantar y más, así como un cheque de $10,500 para la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, NICU) del Renown Children’s Hospital. Vea las imágenes que acompañan a esta historia aquí. En los últimos tres años, Carmona Zink y la Dreams Foundation han organizado una recaudación de fondos y de artículos para bebés con el fin de ayudar a la NICU que cuidó del hijo de Carmona Zink, Howie, durante una época difícil para la familia. “Nuestra campaña de recaudación para la NICU está inspirada en Howie, quien cumplió 4 años hace poco”, dice Carmona Zink. “Hespent about a month in Renown’s NICU because he was born withgastroschisis, a condition where his intestines formed on the outside of his body.During Howie’s stay, the NICU staff was an extension of our family and cared so deeply for all of us. Our goal through this drive has always been to give back to those who gave so much to us, as well as provide a sense of normalcy to parents with babies in the NICU.During these unprecedented times, providing comfort and relief to parents is more important than ever.” “As a pediatric intensive care physician, who is also a dad, and a new grandfather, I thank Sarah Carmona Zink, her family and the Dreams Foundation for their incredible generosity and compassion. Through the years, Sarah has done so much to support the Renown Children’s Hospital NICU team and other NICU parents- she does so with such joy and enthusiasm, and we are incredibly grateful to her for all that she does,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., Renown’s President & CEO. A través de la campaña de donaciones de este año, Carmona Zink recopiló los siguientes artículos para la NICU de Renown: 50 almohadas para amamantar 180 gorritos de bebé tejidos a mano 532 pares de pijamas 682 mantas para recibir a los bebés 8 sacos para dormir 473 almohadillas de fragancia, que los padres colocan en su piel y luego dejan con su bebé para que pueda reconfortarse con el olor de sus padres Libros para que los hermanos lean durante las visitas Artículos generales, como biberones para almacenar la leche materna, baberos, cubremanos para bebés, calcetines de recién nacido, móviles, y fundas de almohadas para amamantar Una donación monetaria de $10,500 por parte de la Dreams Foundation El Dr. Max Coppes, médico en jefe del Renown Children’s Hospital, y Larry Duncan, administrador del Renown Children’s Hospital, añaden: “Estamos realmente bendecidos con el apoyo a los residentes más pequeños del Renown Children’s Hospital. ¡Algunos de ellos pesan menos de una libra!” Sarah and her family inspire us to remain devoted to the children we serve, knowing that the community is committed to our Children’s Hospital.” “We look forward to this donation drive every year,” said Renown NICU nurse Jessica Bakke. “The work Sarah and her team do to collect these itemsis very meaningful to all of us. We don’t always have funds to purchase extra items like clothing, blankets and nursing pillows, so everything we receive through this drive makes a differencefor our babies and their families. It is a wonderful gift to be able to offer fresh clothing and other much-needed items to help these parents.” Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown says, “We are extremely grateful to Sarah and the Dreams Foundation for their generous donation to our NICU. Las donaciones como estas ayudan a garantizar que tengamos suficientes artículos a mano cuando nuestros bebés y sus familias los necesiten. Esta donación permite a los padres con bebés en nuestra NICU enfocarse únicamente en la salud de su bebé, en lugar de las necesidades materiales que puedan surgir a lo largo del camino. Es un honor ser el receptor de un acto tan asombroso de bondad por tercer año consecutivo”. Fundada en 2012, la Dreams Foundation es una organización sin fines de lucro creada para satisfacer los sueños y aspiraciones insatisfechas de personas, familias, iglesias de vecindario, agencias y organizaciones de servicio a las personas, organizaciones benéficas reconocidas, clubes de niños y niñas y programas deportivos para jóvenes en las comunidades. Para obtener más información, visite dreamsfoundationinc.com. Formas de apoyar a los milagros que se hacen realidad en Renown Children’s Hospital Llame a la fundación de Renown Health al 775-982-5545. Haga una donación en renown.org/give. Envíe un cheque por correo postal a Renown Health Foundation, 1155 Mill St., O2, Reno, NV 89502. Venmo: @RenownFoundation About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Con una fuerza laboral diversa de más de 7,000 empleados, Renown ha fomentado una cultura de excelencia, determinación e innovación de larga data. La organización cuenta con un centro de urgencias, dos hospitales de cuidados agudos, un hospital para niños, un hospital de rehabilitación, un grupo médico y una red de atención de urgencia, y la compañía de seguros sin fines de lucro de propiedad local más grande de la región, Hometown Health. Renown’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.
Leer más About Dreams Foundation Makes $10,500 Donation Benefiting NICU Babies
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Gratitude and Generosity: The Henson's Journey with Renown Health Foundation
It doesn’t take long to feel at ease when you sit down with Michael and Lorraine Henson. They are the kind of people you immediately know you can count on and want to be friends with. They have had more than their fair share of hard knocks and yet they still maintain an air of warmth and gratitude. That sense of gratitude towards Renown and connection to this community is what led them to make a generous gift in their family trust to Renown Health Foundation. Home Means Nevada Michael and Lorraine met as students at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and they’ve been together ever since. Lorraine moved from Las Vegas to attend UNR and never left. They have deep roots in Reno and deep roots with Renown going back to its Washoe Medical Center (Washoe Med) days. As Michael put it, he is “Reno born and Reno proud.” Michael’s mother was born at Washoe Med in 1937, but it was his personal experiences with Renown that formed his bond with the organization. When Michael was a teenager, his brother was diagnosed with brain cancer. He was treated over the course of the next six years at Renown before passing away at the tragically young age of 24. The impact on his family was life altering. Michael is an Eagle Scout and turned down a spot at the Air Force Academy to stay close and be with his brother. Renown provided support to Michael and his family during this incredibly difficult time as well as other times such as when his father was in hospice and when Lorraine had a health scare. The Ties That Bind A few years after his brother’s death, Michael joined the Renown team and has now been an employee for 31 years! Lorraine too has many connections to Renown. She was an employee for several years, volunteers for Renown Children’s Hospital and is a grateful patient. Making Their Mark Through Renown’s employee giving program Michael and Lorraine have given over $6,500 to support Renown’s mission to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. “These two are a wonderful example of how small gifts over time really add up and their decision to include Renown Health Foundation in their estate plans can be an inspiration to us all this month in particular, as August is Make a Will Month,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer at Renown Health Foundation. “Michael and Lorraine have supported Renown in every way imaginable over the years, including with their time, their talents and their treasure. It is an honor to have them as part of our Renown family.” We are also incredibly grateful to have Michael and Lorraine as members of the Renown Legacy Society, which recognizes donors who have provided for Renown Health Foundation in their estate plans, and we look forward to celebrating them at the Inaugural Renown Legacy Society Celebration taking place on August 30.
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Renown organiza día de deportes adaptados para personas con todo tipo de capacidades en el evento RASE en Sky Tavern
Despite the challenges of a pandemic, the Renown Rehabilitation Hospital continues to help their patients thrive outside of the hospital walls. On July 31, 2021, they hosted the first-ever Renown Alumni Sports Extravaganza, or RASE, a day focused on adaptive sports for all abilities. “Sports and recreation have a unique way of breaking down emotional barriers,” states Jared Worchel, DO, MS. The alumni used their skills on a climbing wall, Frisbee golf, archery, an obstacle course and bag toss. Over 20 people spent the day cruising the first adaptive mountain biking trail in the Tahoe region. “Having old friends meet up and seeing new friendships form had to be the highlight of the weekend,” says Shaun Stewart Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) with Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. “RASE was a great way to learn new methods to improve outdoor recreation engagement from both participants and the many programs involved.” Dr. Worchel agrees, “The smiles really make it worth it, and we even saw several touching moments with tears of joy when participants completed a task and finally felt like they were getting past their injury, mentally, after years of being so focused on recovery.” Adaptive Climbing and Camping One touching moment came on the adaptive climbing wall. Cassie Firchau, an occupational therapist at Renown, recalls a rehab alumni who had never been on a climbing wall (pre or post injury) conquering the wall. “Everyone was cheering him on. I was impressed with how he used the ascending pull up bar to get up the wall,” she remembers. Mark Wellman, the founder of No Limits, provided the climbing wall. “I had heard of Mark, but I had no idea that he climbed El Capitan only a few years after his spinal cord injury,” says Cassie. “Having him at the event was a great opportunity to learn how to stay active and enjoy the things you love, no matter the circumstance.” After dark, the event continued with a DJ spinning hits followed by overnight camping. That evening Shaun Stewart had the chance to talk to one of the alumni. “He spoke on how he was nervous about camping and how it would go in a new campground. He said that he was happy for an opportunity to practice with our group prior to going out on his own,” remarks Stewart. “Knowing that this event can help create opportunities even outside our events is great to know.” Adaptive camping activities allow all abilities to not only enjoy nature, but also connect. “We also saw a lot of interaction between the participants themselves, sharing their journeys with each other during the down times which was possible with the extended format,” explains Dr. Worchel. “Overall it was an overwhelming success and we are already looking forward to next year.” Northern Nevada's Adaptive Sports Community Not only did the Renown Rehab alumni come together at RASE, but so did the greater northern Nevada community. Along with the hard work of the Renown Rehabilitation employees, the City of Reno Adaptive and Inclusion Programs, Wasting Arrows, Disable Sports Eastern Sierra, No Limits, and High Fives Foundation, provided support and equipment for the alumni. “It was so great to see multiple groups, volunteers and non-profits collaborating to support alumni participants to live life to the fullest, and to experience outdoor recreation in such a dynamic way,” states Josh Patterson, Supervisor of Rehab Therapy Services at Renown Health. "The City of Reno is so grateful for this sponsorship to bring together new and old Renown alumni to learn and encourage each other. There were many firsts this weekend, and we look forward to future participation in City of Reno Adaptive programs,” says April Wolfe, CTRS, City of Reno Parks and Recreation. For more information on future alumni adaptive events, please email: shaun.stewart@renown.org.
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What Foods to Eat and What to Avoid When Pregnant
Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet when pregnant is one of the more essential things you can do for your baby and yourself. The basic principles of what to eat when pregnant are quite similar to how we should be eating all the time. This includes focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats. Of course, there are a few areas that you should pay close attention to when you’re pregnant and a few foods you should avoid. We consulted Renown Health’s Caitlin Bus, RD, LD, CDE to learn more about pregnancy nutrition. Foods to Eat Regularly: Veggies Vegetables of all kinds -- and in all forms -- are beneficial for you and your baby during pregnancy. Veggies ensure your body is getting the fiber, vitamins and minerals it needs. However, fresh or frozen veggies are considered best, but if you choose to eat canned veggies, make sure you choose a low sodium product. The more greens, the better! If you have an aversion to vegetables, especially in the first trimester, try sneaking them into smoothies. Healthy Proteins Protein-rich foods support your baby's growth while giving your body the nutrients to build and repair tissues, including your muscles, hair, skin and nails. Although protein requirements vary from person to person, a pregnant woman needs additional protein for her baby's growth, especially in the second and third trimesters. Regularly eating high protein foods -- like fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, peanut butter, nuts and beans –– promotes your baby's healthy brain and heart development. Grains Food like brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat pasta and oatmeal are great to eat while pregnant. They are rich in fiber, iron, B vitamins and folic acid, which are all beneficial to physical development. Grains also help alleviate constipation and hemorrhoids. Fruits Fruit can help satisfy any sugar cravings you have when pregnant while also supplying your baby with nutrients – it's a win-win. Some people advise against fruit consumption while pregnant, but this is a myth. Like with all foods, moderation is key. Fruit can be high in sugar, so it is important to be aware of your intake. Also, make sure you are mindful of your preparation – thoroughly rinse produce under running water for 30 seconds to help avoid foodborne illness. Pasteurized Dairy Dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt can be great sources of protein and calcium needed for the healthy development of a baby's bones, teeth and muscles. These foods also help with ensuring healthy heart function and nerve transmission. When buying these products, make sure to choose pasteurized products to avoid exposing your body to germs and bacteria. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 1,000mg of calcium per day for pregnant and lactating women. This equates to 4 servings of dairy or calcium-rich foods such as leafy greens, broccoli, tofu, almonds or dried figs. DHA Omega-3 Fats Omega-3s like DHA help support the health of a baby's brain and parts of their eyes. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should eat at least 8 ounces and up to 12 ounces of seafood each week. Ideally, food sources that offer DHA omega-3 and that are lower in mercury should be emphasized in your diet, including fish like salmon, sardines and anchovies. If you do not eat fish or omega-3 fortified foods, a DHA omega-3 supplement is recommended. Choline Did you know that 92% of pregnant women fail to meet the daily choline recommendation? Choline is crucial for an infant's brain and central nervous system development. One egg supplies 33% of the recommended daily intake. Although choline is often absent or low in prenatal vitamins, the best food sources include eggs, meats, fish, dairy, navy beans, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and spinach. Iron and Folic Acid Iron is the most common nutrient deficiency during pregnancy. Foods with high and moderate amounts of iron include red meat, chicken, fish, fortified cereals, spinach and beans. Folic acid is used to make the extra blood your body needs during pregnancy. Consuming adequate folic acid early in pregnancy reduces the risk of birth defects that affect the spinal cord. It is recommended to consume 400 micrograms (mcg) per day for pregnant women. This amount is included in your prenatal vitamins. Water Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby when pregnant. In addition to just being good for you, hydration alleviates morning sickness and nausea, while dehydration can lead to contractions and even pre-term labor. Aim for 10 cups of fluids per day, on top of the water naturally occurring in foods. Foods to Avoid: Raw Fish and Fish with High Mercury Content Sorry sushi fans, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women are 10 times more likely to get infected by Listeria, a bacteria found in raw or undercooked fish. Also, avoid fish often found to be high in mercury, including swordfish, king mackerel, tuna and marlin. Processed or Raw Meat Similar to eating raw fish, eating undercooked or raw meat increases your risk of infection while pregnant. Hot dogs and lunch meats should also be avoided, unless they have been reheated to be steaming hot (for example, in a microwave). Alcohol Drinking alcohol when pregnant can impact your baby’s brain development and increases your risk of premature birth, low birth weight or miscarriage. Just don’t do it! Minimize Caffeine High caffeine intake during pregnancy can restrict your baby’s growth; therefore, it is recommended that pregnant people limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day – that’s roughly two cups (16 fl oz) of coffee per day. Runny Eggs Eating raw or runny eggs when pregnant increases your risk of Salmonella, which can cause fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea. Always make sure your eggs are cooked through or use pasteurized eggs.
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What Does a Doula Do?
If you’re expecting a new baby, you may have been given the advice to hire a doula. You may have seen statistics of improved outcomes among those who’ve had a doula attend their birth. Perhaps you’ve heard that the etymology is from the Greek word meaning “to serve.” But how does a doula serve their clients? A doula is a non-medical birth professional who will guide you through labor, birth, postpartum and beyond. Your doula can discuss your options with you so you can make informed decisions, as well as provide emotional and physical support to ease your experience. While each doula offers their own style, there are certain services that most doulas will provide for their clients. Typically, a birth doula will provide at least one prenatal visit, one postpartum visit and continuous support during active labor. A postpartum doula usually provides support during the 12 weeks immediately following birth, sometimes referred to as the “fourth trimester,” but some will continue care after that as well. Simply put, a doula provides informational, physical and emotional support during the childbearing year(s). Let’s take a closer look at these three ways a doula can support you. The Basics If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any. This is a common phrase in the world of birth work. When you’re in labor, you’re exhausted, in pain and there’s often urgency inherent or implied in any choices you make. So, when an intervention is offered, many birthing people accept it without question. One method that can help the decision-making process is to check your BRAIN: Benefits: What are the benefits of the proposed intervention? Risks: What are the risks of the proposed intervention? Alternatives: What are the alternative options? Intuition: What does your intuition tell you? Nothing: What if we do nothing? What if we wait? When you’re in active labor, you might have difficulty remembering this acronym; that’s where your doula comes in. At your prenatal visits, you can ask your doula for guidance in preparing your birth plan, which can include contingencies for certain potential interventions. And as choices arise during labor, your doula can guide you through the benefits and risks and can provide you with alternative options you might not otherwise be aware of that are available to you. Your doula can remind you to check in with your intuition and can help you quiet your mind so you can listen to your instincts. The Body Although we tend to see depictions of people giving birth on their backs with their feet in stirrups, this is only one of many ways to give birth. Walking and dancing can speed up early labor. Side-lying or hands-and-knees can prevent tearing during the pushing stage. Sometimes labor stalls, and a change of position is often helpful to get things moving again. Your doula can suggest positions depending on your stage of labor. Some labor positions might require the support of another person – your doula could fill this role or assist your partner in doing so. Some doulas also provide massage or even acupressure, and most will do the “hip squeeze” that so many laboring people swear by. If your baby is presenting posterior, or “sunny side up,” your doula can apply counter pressure to alleviate back pain during labor. Some postpartum doulas will do light housework while you rest and bond with your newborn. Others might care for your baby through the night so you can catch up on sleep. Many doulas have also gone through additional training to offer breastfeeding support and may be able to assist you with latch issues and nursing positions. The Mind Pregnancy, birth and postpartum periods can be some of the most emotional times in a person’s life. A doula will hold space for you and help you process your emotions before and after birth. It’s normal to feel apprehensive, or even fearful, about labor and birth, and discussing these feelings is the first step. A doula can help you navigate your concerns in a safe space so you can be prepared emotionally for your upcoming labor. Many doulas will also guide you through writing your birth plan, which can lessen anxiety about the unknown. If you have a history of trauma, your doula can assist in communicating this, so you don’t have to relive the experience every time you meet a new medical provider. Most people will experience some form of what’s often called the Baby Blues in the immediate postpartum period. The third day after birth tends to hit hard, as hormones attempt to regulate, but the Baby Blues can continue for weeks for some new parents. A postpartum doula’s support can be incredibly valuable during this time. When the baby blues last longer than a few weeks, it could considered a mood disorder. Most doulas will recognize signs of postpartum mood disorders and will have resources available for additional support. Choosing the Best Doula for You With so many wonderful doulas in northern Nevada, you might wonder how you could ever choose just one to attend your birth. Some expectant parents are unfortunately restricted by cost. With so many expenses related to a new baby, it can be difficult to budget doula services as well. Thankfully, Nevada Medicaid now covers doula care, and some commercial insurances are following suit. Check with your insurance company to find out if they might cover part of the cost for hiring a doula. If your insurance doesn’t cover doula services, some doulas offer a sliding scale based on income. You may want to interview multiple doulas to find the right one for you. If you’re the kind of person who wants all the information you can get, a more detail-oriented doula might be the best choice. But if you tend to feel overwhelmed by too many options, you might prefer a doula who only offers additional information as the situation calls for it. If you want massage or acupressure during labor, you might want to hire a doula with those certifications. Or maybe informational and physical support are not as important to you as emotional support, in which case your best choice could be a doula who has experience with postpartum mood disorders or trauma support. Regardless of who you hire, be sure to clearly communicate your desires and expectations – not just for your birth, but also for your doula. The most important thing when choosing your doula is trusting your gut. You need to feel comfortable with your doula, as they’ll be tending to you at one of the most vulnerable times in your life. When you find a doula that you click with, who listens to you and supports your choices, you have found the best doula for you.