'Dietgirl' Helps Find the Weight-Loss Hero in All of Us

Posted on 03rd , Feburary 2012

Embarking on a weight loss journey can be exciting but frightening. The thrill of changing numbers on the scale and the agony of healthy food choices wait around every corner. There are times when the right thing to eat or the best way to exercise seems as elusive as a super villain. But have no fear: Diet girl is here to help show you the way through her touching and inspirational book: "The Amazing Adventures of Dietgirl."

The book was written by Shauna Reid, an ordinary twenty-three-year-old girl who decided to undertake an extraordinary mission: to lose weight and be the slimmer, healthier goddess every woman wants to be. Since she weighed 351 pounds at the time of her resolution, this was definitely no easy task. Reid was determined to make it work, however, and over time lost 175 pounds and became healthier and happier than she'd ever thought was possible. She began chronicling her adventures through a blog which served as the basis for this book.

Reid's approach to losing weight seems like common sense in theory-eat less, eat healthy and exercise-but anyone who has struggled with a weight problem knows it's not that simple in practice. There are as many things that can sabotage weight loss as there are that can help it. Reid carefully picks her way through the battlefield, learning through trial-and-error what does and doesn't work, and how to overcome obstacles and move on after setbacks. And she does have obstacles and setbacks. She just doesn't let them stop her.

The narrative is a pleasure to read: "Dietgirl" is never condescending or superior in tone. Reid shoots from the hip and writes from the heart, and it is easy to understand the pain and suffering of her plight. She writes for every woman who is tired of being overweight, tired of having doctors, family and friends lecture about her health and appearance. She's not afraid to tackle the psychological issues surrounding obesity, either: and her poignant insights on self-esteem, love, change and body image are on target, painful and enlightening.

"Dietgirl" is not a cookie-cutter how-to guide filled with recipes and formulas. It's about being able to look at yourself in a mirror and decide to do something about what you see. It's about taking a long, hard look at your life and the everyday decisions that hold you back. The appeal of the book is that Reid is just like us, with the same hopes and fears, and it makes us cheer for her to win. It also gives us the courage to say: "hey, maybe I can do this, too."

If you're looking for a down-to-earth book that will motivate you to lose weight, this is it. Reid's story will delight and inspire you, and show you how to turn everyday temptations into triumphs. From start to finish, "The Amazing Adventures of Dietgirl" is a remarkable ride into the victory of the human spirit.

Book Review: Cut Calories and Boost Flavor with 75 Delicious, All-Natural Recipes

Posted on 27th , January 2012

It's not often that a low-calorie cookbook lives up to its promise of great-tasting food.  That's not the case with 'Flavor First: Cut Calories and Boost Flavor with 75 Delicious, All-Natural Recipes.'  Written by Cheryl Forberg, the original nutritionist for the NBC show 'The Biggest Loser,' this is one recipe book that definitely delivers.

'Flavor First' is based on simple but powerful dietary research.  Our taste buds have grown accustomed to-and crave-particular flavors and textures when it comes to food.  When we decide to eat healthy and try baked chicken instead of fried, for example, the baked chicken lacks the salty crunch of the fried chicken and it isn't appealing to eat.  And when food doesn't taste good, we don't keep eating it.

The solution, according to Forberg, is easy.  Eat dishes that are high in flavor and you won't miss the empty calories and extra fat.  By adding spices, zests and other natural flavor-enhancing ingredients, your taste buds will still get the zing factor that will keep them happy and you'll keep eating healthy, wholesome food.

Imagine replacing a fattening hamburger with Beer-Braised Tacos, or pancakes with Toasted Oatcakes. Forberg's book shows you how you don't have to sacrifice the tastes you love to eat the nutritious food you want. Unlike some healthy recipe books, hers doesn't try to make you think plain steamed vegetables are the greatest thing since potato salad.  She understands the importance of flavor and it shows with every recipe.  

The book is full of mouth-watering delights that cover everything from appetizers to desserts, drinks to main dishes. All the recipes contain the nutritional information, so you know exactly how much fiber, fat, sugar and protein are in each one. Many of the dishes are gluten free, a great help for people looking for tasty, gluten free recipes.  

One of the best things about the recipes is that you don't have to be a gourmet chef to prepare them.  Forberg explains her techniques in easy to understand terms and everything in the book can be made by a cooking novice.  They are enjoyable to make and even more enjoyable to eat.  

Forberg also goes into a lot of detail about seasonings, marinades and sauces.  These flavor enhancers are a vital part of a successful transition to healthy, low-calorie food.  They satisfy the need for a powerful taste experience without the use of unhealthy oils and excessive amounts of sugar, fat and salt.  After reading the book you will know simple and effective ways to flavor your foods.

'Flavor First' is an excellent recipe book for anyone who wants to lose weight or just eat more healthfully and naturally.  It is well-written with a wide variety of recipes to suit every lifestyle. These recipes have helped people all over the world eat quality, natural food. If you are ready to leave your current eating habits behind and start down the road to great taste and better nutrition, this is the right recipe book for you.

Safely Enjoy Your Bathtub with Invacare's Rio Bath Lift

Invacare Model # H605 Rio Bath Lift

Getting in and out of your tub can be tough to do as well as dangerous. If you are someone who enjoys taking a bath but are worried about being able to get back out of the bathtub afterwards then the new Invacare Rio Bath Lift is the perfect product for you! Unlike expensive and labor-intensive renovations to your bathroom, the Invacare Rio Bath Lift is a cost effective and safe way to give you the freedom, independence and therapy of bathing in your own bathtub. Some of the features of the bath lift are that it has easy to clean surfaces, can easily be installed without any tools, it is lightweight and portable.

For more information on the Invacare Rio Bath Lift and a video demonstration of the product, click here.

For information on other Bath Benches & Chairs click here.

To look at other Bathroom Assist products click here.

Advance Your Hygiene with Brondell's Swash Bidet Toilet Seats

Brondell Model # S1000-RW Swash 1000

When it comes to cleaning your body the single most effective way to clean any part of your body is by using fresh, clean water. Brondell's line of Swash Bidet Toilet Seats combine the conventional toilet seat with cleaning functionality of a bidet. By combining the two types of products, the Swash advanced bidet toilets provide a toileting seat that cleans, soothes, and refreshes users with a personal warm water wash at the push of a button. The Swash quickly and easily replaces your existing toilet seat in approximately a half hour and can be installed without a plumber. With a customer satisfaction rate of over 97%, you can be sure that you will love the shower-fresh all day long feeling that it provides.

For more information on the Swash products click here.

To see Brondells full line of products click here.

Rehab Shower Commode Chairs are Ideal for Bathing

Invacare Model # 6891 Mariner Rehab Shower Commode Chair with 5" Casters

All new aluminum frames as well as stainless steel hardware help provide the rust resistance you are looking for in a Rehab Shower Commode Chair. Other features that help make the Rehab Shower Commode Chairs ideal for bathing are that they easily fold for transport and storage, they fit over most standard and elongated toilet bowls and that they have a removable pan, pan holder, and come with a safety strap as well. All of these features as well as the fact that they can be purchased with different width and wheel options help make Rehab Shower Commode Chairs ideal for not only bathing but also for use in the shower.

For more information on Rehab Shower Commode Chairs click here.

To view replacement buckets and accessories for the chairs click here.

Never Clean a Commode Bucket Again!

Medline Model #MDS89664LINER Bedside Toilet Liners

Bedside Toilet Liners are a hygienic and inexpensive alternative to washing commode buckets. Each liner has an absorbent pad built in that solidifies and neutralizes the waste for easy and convenient disposal. The pad is made for a polymer gelling agent that solidifies liquids which makes transporting easier. Just toss the liner in the garbage after use to dispose of it and cleanup is as simple as that. By disposing of the human waste in this way it eliminates contact between the staff and the waste, reducing contamination while saving time that was spent on washing.

For more information on Medline Bedside Toilet Liners click here.

For other Commode and Accessory products click here.

Get the Skin Protection You Need with the ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress

ROHO Model # SFLX2SYSC ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress Overlay System

The ROHO Group makes an air adjustable, non-powered, multi-zoned mattress overlay system that provides the support and therapy needed for individuals needing skin and soft tissue protection. The ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress Overlay System can be inflated and adjusted to match an individual's body contours and its interconnected air cell design provides individualized therapy and critical skin protection. According to The ROHO Group the Sofflex 2 is effective for individuals who:

- are at risk of developing pressure ulcers and/or tissue injury - are at risk for skin/soft tissue breakdown
- have any stage pressure ulcer, skin grafts or recent myocutaneous flap surgery
- need comfort
- need pain management
- need a mattress overlay that provides an individualized fit

The ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress Overlay System comes with everything needed including the three sectioned mattress, the hand inflation pump, operating instructions and a repair kit.

For information on the ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress Overlay System with standard cover click here.

For information on the ROHO Sofflex 2 Mattress Overlay System with two piece cover click here.

For information on other pressure prevention surfaces click here.

Make Caregiving Easier with a Lateral Rotation Mattress

Invacare Model #MA90Z microAIR Lateral Rotation Mattress w/ Compressor

Are you a caregiver who has to wake up at all hours of the night to move your patient or loved one so that they don't develop pressure sores? Invacare offers the top of the line microAIR Lateral Rotation Mattresses that you need. They offer both compressor and blower motor options and the ability to set the alternating pressure times at 10, 20, 30 and 60 minute intervals. Their patented z-cell bladder makes the lateral rotation smooth and subtle and turns the patient at customizable intervals up to 45 degrees as necessary.

For more information on the microAIR Lateral Rotation Mattress with Compressor click here.

For more information on the microAIR Lateral Rotation Mattress with blower click here.

ROHO Wheelchair Cushions vs The Competition

ROHO Model #QS109MPC MID PROFILE QUADTRO SELECT Cushion

The University of Florida did a comparison study of three wheelchair cushions for pressure relief effectiveness. The objective of the study was to determine the effectiveness of the pressure-relieving ability of three of the most common wheelchair cushion brands for a person with spinal cord injury.

The study used the Xsensor Pressure Mapping System to measure the number of pressure sensors registering at the buttock-cushion interface during wheelchair sitting. The measurements were compared using a Wilcoxon signed ranks test as well as visual inspection.

Through analysis the study indicated that the number of potential harmful levels of pressure at the buttock-cushion interface was significantly less for the ROHO brand cushion than those of the other top brands that were tested.

For further reading on the study click here.

For more information on Cushions & Covers click here.

Medline's EvenCare G2 Blood Glucose Monitoring System Offers Accuracy and Savings

Medline Model # MPH1540 EvenCare G2 Blood Glucose Monitoring System

Medline's newest EvenCare monitoring system model is the EvenCare G2 which provides accurate results in 6 seconds and an easy-to-use voice assisted guided system. The EvenCare G2 Blood Glucose Monitoring System with Voice Guidance requires only a small blood sample and offers the user the versatility of testing either their forearm, palm or fingertips which in turn means less discomfort than other systems. The intuitive system can also provide averaging of 7, 14 and 30-days worth of results and it can also store up to 300 test times. With test strips as inexpensive as under 25 cents per test strip, the EvenCare G2 Blood Glucose Monitoring System is also one of the most affordable blood glucose monitoring systems around.

To view more information or purchase the EvenCare G2 Monitoring System click here.

To purchase the EvenCare G2 Test Strips click here.

To purchase the EvenCare G2 Control Solution Hi / Low click here.

To view other Diabetes Supplies products click here.

Muscle Stimulator and TENS Device In One

BioMedical Life Systems Model #BMLKBNMSP BioStim Digital NMS + Muscle Stimulator

BioMedical Life Systems offers a unique electrotherapy device that incorporates both the muscle training benefits of a muscle stimulator as well as the pain therapy benefits of a TENS unit in one compact and user friendly device.

The BioStim Digital NMS + Muscle Stimulator is not only easy to use but it also features a 2.5" LCD screen and digital keypad as well as simple to understand operating instructions for guiding users through the device's operations.

Features of the unit include five pre-programmed therapies and three types of stimulation to ensure ease of use. The unit's settings can be adjusted however based on the user's specific needs.

The kit the device comes with also includes a carrying case, lead wires, four electrodes and a 5-year limited warranty so that users have a all-in-one solution for their muscle stimulating/TENS unit needs.

For more information on the BioStim Digital NMS + Muscle Stimulator click here.

Repair and Recharge Muscles With Protein

EAS Part #040000 Myoplex Nutrition Shake

Give your body the nutrients it needs for adding lean muscle and sustaining an active lifestyle by drinking a protein shake within 30 minutes after your workout. Protein shakes are a complete and convenient meal replacement that are packed with high-quality protein for supporting your muscles and overall improvement of body composition.EAS Myoplex Nutrition Shakes have 42 grams of high-quality protein as well as 24 vitamins and minerals to give you nutritional support in a quick and convenient shake that can also be used for replacing 2-3 meals a day. To see other great nutritious productsclick here.

Support the National Breast Cancer Foundation with Medline's Pink Products

Medline Model # PINK6800 Generation Pink Nitrile Exam Gloves

Medline Industries now offers a line of Generation Pink Gloves that help fund free mammograms for women who otherwise would not be able to afford them. Medline supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation by donating $1.00 for every case of the Generation Pink Gloves that are sold. If you are interested in supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation and would like to purchase a case of the Generation Pink Gloves please see the links listed here:

To purchase Generation Pink Nitrile Exam Gloves click here.

To purchase Generation Pink Pearl Exam Gloves click here.

To purchase Generation Pink Vinyl Exam Gloves click here.

To view other gloves and glove products click here.

Improve Hand Hygiene While Keeping Your Hands Soft

Medline Model #MDS195285 Aloetouch Ice PF Nitrile Exam Gloves

Medline's Aloetouch Exam Gloves are helping healthcare workers improve hygiene compliance while improving skin condition with aloe vera. "According to a recent poll, 97 percent of operating room nurses surveyed said that aloe-coated exam gloves would improve hand hygiene compliance in their facilities."

The poll clearly shows that with healthcare workers' hands feeling better, compliance to glove and hand washing protocols will improve significantly. Greater compliance means killing microorganisms while preventing hospital-acquired infections.

The inside of the Aloetouch Exam Gloves are coated with pure aloe vera gel to keep the skin soft and when they are combined with Sterillium Comfort Gel, which kills over 99 percent of nosocomial pathogens within 15 seconds, healthcare workers have healthy and moisturized skin.

You can learn more about the Aloetouch study on Medline's Website.

For other Exam & Surgical Gloves click here.

The Medline Microfiber Advantage

Medline Model #MDT217720 MicroMax G2 Microfiber Mope

Durable, versatile and simple to use are the key features that Medline's microfiber products offer. They leave the surfaces at your facility sparkling clean and reduce the risk of cross contamination. Medline has a variety of microfiber products that range from glass towels, high dusters and mops that are perfect for your cleaning needs.

Of the many reasons to choose microfiber, there are five that stand out:

1)      Strong, lint-free, ultra-fine fiber

2)      Polyester/polyamide fibers that are split to 1/16 the diameter of a human hair for exceptional performance

3)      A dense matrix that enables microfiber products to hold six times their own weight in fluid

4)      Splitting fibers creates hundreds of thousands of microscopic channels that capture, absorb and remove dust

5)      Positively charged microfibers attract negatively charged dust and dirt for improved cleaning performance

Learn more about Medline's Microfiber Advantage.

To see other Janitorial Supplies click here.

An Easy Way To Reduce Your Environmental Impact - Green Tree Toilet Tissue

Medline Model #NON26805 Green Tree Toilet Paper - Jumbo Roll

As the growth of the world population is expected to exceed 9 billion by 2050 (NPG.org) the amount of waste produced by human kind can have enormous ramifications.

One product that can help reduce landfills and the number of trees that are cut down is Green Tree Toilet Tissue, which is made with 100% recycled paper.

According to Green Tree if every household in the United States replaced just one roll of virgin fiber toilet paper (500 sheets) with 100 percent recycled paper, we could save 423,900 trees.

Replacing the toilet tissue that you have to purchase anyways with Green Tree Toilet Tissue is an easy way that you can save tons of trees and cut down on the average of 1600 pounds of year each American produces in a year (Wise Geek).

Learn more about Green Tree Toilet Tissue.

T.E.D. Stockings Provide Style and Compression

Kendall Model #KND4434 T.E.D Knee Length Anti-embolism Stockings - Black

Anti-Embolism stockings are commonly worn after surgery by hospital patients, or patients that are bedridden. Their function is to fit tightly around the leg and give compression and pressure to the legs to prevent blood from pooling and clotting in the veins of the leg.

T.E.D. Continuing Care Anti-Embolism Stockings are clinically proven to reduce thromboembolic disease, are designed for patient comfort. Whether you need knee length or thigh length anti-embolism stockings, or are looking for stylish color options, T.E.D. has you covered.

Here are the links for T.E.D Knee Length Anti-Embolism Stockings for Continuing Care (Closed Toe): Beige, Black, White

Here are the links for T.E.D Thigh Length Anti-Embolism Stockings for Continuing Care (Closed Toe) – White

Get Rid of Those Winter Blues with the Day-Light Bright Light Therapy System

Uplift Technologies Inc. Model # UPTDL930 Day-Light Bright Light Therapy System

Do you or someone you know suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or otherwise known as the "winter blues"?

According to the maker of the Day-Light Bright Light Therapy System, light deprivation is very common and people that suffer from it may not even be aware that the symptoms can include:

1  Feeling down or moody during the fall and winter
2  Fatigue, lack of energy, and difficulty getting up in the morning
3  Problems getting things done (lack of motivation)
4  Reduced social contact (and often reduced sexual interest)
5  Cravings for carbohydrates and weight gain

The Day-Light Bright Light Therapy System is a light therapy lamp that is doctor recommended and is specially designed for the treatment of these and other non-seasonal mood disorders. The system delivers light at an angle that mimics outdoor light and with just 20 to 30 minutes of the light therapy each morning you will notice significantly improved energy levels, improved concentration and sleep patterns.

For more information on the Day-Light Bright Light Therapy System click here.

For information on the Day-Light Sky Light Therapy System click here.

To see these and other products made by Up-Lift Technologies click here.

Easily Tote Your Belongings with a Folding Shopping Cart

Drive Medical Model #605B Winnie Wagon

The Drive Winnie Wagon makes hauling laundry, groceries or gardening supplies painless. They have a sturdy lightweight design that glides with you. Rubber casters provide smooth hauling of your goods and the steel frame easily folds for convenient storage and transport. The Winnie Wagon is available in both black and red and also comes with a limited lifetime warranty so the quality is guaranteed.

For ordering information click here.

To see the owner's manual click here.

Save Money and Make Caregiving Easier with a Patient Lift

Invacare Model # 9805P Hydraulic Lift

If you are an assisted living or an adult family home owner you may want to consider purchasing a patient lift. Many residents over time eventually end up needing a patient lift and a trend is forming with adult family home owners where they are purchasing patient lifts for each of their locations. There are many reasons to purchase a patient lift but the main reasons are the following:

1) Reassure current and future resident families that you can provide for their loved ones for the long term.
2) Less staff on hand to care for residents that need help either getting up or transferring saves owners money.
3) Lifts can be inexpensive and will pay for themselves in the long run.
4) New patient lifts are covered by manufacturer warranty ensuring you will be covered if there is a problem with the lift.

5) Whether you are helping a resident get to a standing position or transferring them from their bed to their wheelchair, patient lifts can make everyday patient care much easier for caregivers.
For information on Hydraulic Lifts click here.

For information on Electric Lifts click here.

For information on Bariatric Lifts click here.

Safely Get Up Out of Your Chair with the Standers Assist A Tray

Standers Model #STD2050 Assist A Tray

Standers has created a product that allows users to safely and easily get up out of their favorite couch or chair with their Assist A Tray. The Assist A Tray features an ergonomic safety handle that can support 250 lbs and makes sitting and standing easy and safe. It can be adapted in both length and height to fit either side of your chair or couch. It also features a swivel tray that can support 30 lbs so your drink, book, remote or other preferred items are close and accessible. Super grip rubber pads help ensure that your floor is protected while offering the stability you need.

For more information and specifications on the Assist A Tray click here.

To see other Standers products click here.

Wireless Sensor Pad Alarm Systems Offer Safety and Convenience

AliMed Model #2143 AliMed Wireless Remote Sensor Pad Alarm Systems

AliMed's Wireless Remote Sensor Pad Alarm System offers three distinct advantages over traditional sensor pad alarms:

1)  Traditional sensor pad alarms sound only at the bedside which can often be upsetting to patients and can interfere with their sleep as well as their roommate's sleep. Bedside alarmscan also make it challenging for staff to quickly locate the patient in need. This wireless remote alarm option can be set to sound at the bedside and outside of the room simultaneously, or sound and flash outside of the room only. This helps reduce the incidence of patient tampering with the alarm and makes it easier for staff to locate the patient quickly.

2)  The alarm unit can be put in a temporary hold mode while assisting the patient . The patient can move off of the pad without the alarm sounding while the hold mode is on. When the hold period expires, the system automatically resets which ensures that the alarm won't be inadvertently left off.

3)  The system also offers a Nurse Call Jack which lets you plug the patient's nurse-call cord into the patient alarm unit, allowing the unit to send a signal to the nurse's station when a patient needs assistance.

For more information about Alarms & Sensors click here.

How to Determine if You Need a Bedrail

Standers, Inc. Model #STD5000 Bed Rail Advantage Traveler & Organizer

Before purchasing a bedrail it is important to determine if a bedrail is right for you. If one of these categories fits your needs you may want to consider purchasing a bed rail:

1)  Need aid in repositioning or turning in bed

2)  When getting out of bed you require a hand hold to assist you

3)   Want ease of mind by having a bed rail for comfort and security

4)  Are worried about falling out of bed and want to feel safe

5)  Would like to keep items handy in a bedrail pouch

If any of the categories mentioned above fit someone you know, or your personal needs then a bedrail can improve quality of life by providing the safety, support, confidence and reassurance needed to live safely and independently. If you are not sure which bedrail to choose please call customer service at (877) 480-3028

You can learn more about bedrails on Stander's Website.

For information on other Assist Poles & Bed Assists products click here.

Are You Renting Oxygen Cylinders or an Oxygen Concentrator?

Invacare Model # IOH200PV65P HomeFill Oxygen System with Concentrator

Are you renting oxygen cylinders or an oxygen concentrator? Will you be needing the cylinders or concentrator for more than a few months? You may want to consider purchasing your own oxygen concentrator or your own HomeFill Oxygen Compressor system to fill your own cylinders. Monthly rental fees can be expensive for both you and your insurance. In many cases it makes more sense to purchase a brand new oxygen system then it would be to continually rent. If you are covered by insurance you may want to call and ask them if they would pay for a new oxygen concentrator or HomeFill system. Current oxygen systems are less noisy, smaller, more energy efficient and also weigh less than older generation models. By buying a brand new unit that is covered by the manufacturer warranty you are assured to get top-of the line product without the worry of having a previously used or out of date rental model while saving you and or your insurance money as well.

For more information on HomeFill Oxygen Systems and related products click here.

For more information on Oxygen Concentrators and related products click here.

For more information on the benefits of buying your own oxygen call Cascade Healthcare Solutions at (877) 480-3028

Perform and Monitor Post-Surgical Breathing Exercises

Medline Model #DHD222500H Incentive Spirometer

Medline's Incentive Spirometers make performing and monitoring post-surgical breathing exercises easy for both patients and staff. Their highly visible graphics and pistons indicate the inspiratory flow rate while the one-way valve ensures that the patient inhales instead of exhales into the unit. Two convenient capacity options as well as an oxygen connector, handle, flexible popple tubing and bedrail holder, the Incentive Spirometer has all of the features that you need for your post-surgical breathing exercises.

To see the Incentive Spirometer options click here.

Flying with your new XPO2 Portable Concentrator

Invacare Model #XPO100 XPO2 Portable Concentrator

The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the XPO2 Portable Concentrator for use onboard commercial aircraft, making traveling with your XPO2 easy! There are two main steps that you need to do before travelling.

The first step is to notify your airline and/or travel carrier and provide them information about your intent to use a portable concentrator during your travels. The travel carrier or airline may have specific rules, so be sure to ask them about how they would like you to take your XPO2 with you. The second step is you need to have a licensed physician's signed statement with you at all times during your trip. The statement can be on a standard form, the doctor's letterhead, or an airline approved form. The form needs to specify at what times during the flight process that you will need oxygen, the flow rate you will use, that you understand what to do if there is an alarm situation with the device, and your personal information that includes: name, date of birth, and the model name or number of the XPO2.

Be sure to explain at the check-in counter that you will be travelling with a portable concentrator and allow them as well as security to inspect the device. When boarding the plane, you will need to show the pilot and, if requested, the flight crew the signed physician's statement regarding the use of your XPO2 so that they know the information about your flow rates and times when you will be using the device. Please remember that you are not permitted to sit in an exit row if you plan to use the XPO2 at any time during the flight. Please also remember to charge your XPO2 before getting on the plane and when you get off of the plane so that it has enough battery life for use during the flight and when leaving the airport.

You can learn more about flying with your XPO2 on Invacare's Website.

For more information on Oxygen Concentrators click here.

For more information on Respiratory Products click here.

Tips for Healthy Skin

Medline #MSC094424H Remedy Skin Repair Cream - 4 oz

Here are four key steps to provide your skin a complete regimen for retaining healthy skin:

1) Cleanse - Know that not all cleansers are equally good for all skin types. Make sure you find the right combination that you need whether you have oily skin, dry skin or a combination, there are different products that would work best for keeping your skin looking luminous. All natural cleansers with phospholipids-based products are usually best for total body cleansers.

2) Moisturize - After cleansing be sure to do complete head-to-toe moisturizing for maintaining healthy skin. If you have sensitive skin you may prefer products that do not contain potentially irritating ingredients like fragrance or menthol. Thicker creams that are emollient based are usually better for people with dry skin and if you prefer an anti-wrinkle moisturizer you should look for products with antioxidants, retinol and alpha hydroxy acids.

3) Protect - The number one cause of wrinkles is sun damage so be sure to make sunscreen an integral part of your skin maintenance routine. It would be best to use a moisturizer that includes UV protection for use during the day and then to have another moisturizer that does not contain sunscreen for use at night.

4) Treat - Be sure to keep high risk areas dry by using anti-perspirants and talcum powder if you are susceptible to common fungal infections such as Athlete's Foot, ringworm, jock itch and others. If you live in high humidity environment, try to avoid less breathable synthetic materials and keep your clothing loose and light.

For more information on Tips for Healthy Skin click here.

To see great products to help maintain a healthy skin regimen click here.

Invacare just released its new line of rollators which have been upgraded from the previous year's model.

Invacare Model #65510 Three-Wheeled Rollator

Invacare just released its new line of rollators which have been upgraded from the previous year's model.

The Model #65510 three-wheeled rollator replaces the previous model which has been discontinued. The major change was to the frame of the rollator, which is now larger for greater stability and increased weight capacity of 30 lbs to a maximum of 295 lbs. The basket and tote bag still come standard and the brakes come with a 5 year warranty. The improved design aims to make walking more comfortable while reducing fatigue.

Medline's Excel Hybrid 2 Offers the Convenience of a Wheelchair and Trasport Chair In One

Medline Model # MDS806150H2 Excel Hybrid 2

Medline brand is now offering a brand new product called the Excel Hybrid 2 which is a combination wheelchair and transport chair. By simply removing the large wheels that it comes with the chair converts from a wheelchair to a transport chair offering the convenience of both styles of chairs in one. This product is perfect for facilities in that and caregivers because it allows them to transport their patients in its highly maneuverable transport chair mode but also allows the versatility of letting them convert it into a wheelchair to allow patients to maneuver themselves as well. The chair converts easily in seconds, is extremely lightweight and has a 300 lb weight capacity.

For more information on the Excel Hybrid 2 click here.

To view other manual wheelchair options click here.

To view other transport chair options click here.

To view other lightweight wheelchair options click here.

Now you can "Go Anywhere" with Roll-A-Ramp

Roll-A-Ramp

Roll-A-Ramp offers an access solution for wheelchair and scooter users that is convenient, lightweight and portable that does not require the cost of a conversion or an expensive chair lift. The ramps they offer are simple to set up and to take down and they also have a weight capacity of 1,000+ lbs.

When you are done using the ramp all you have to do is roll it up and it is ready to go with you. Each 8" section only weighs between 26 and 45 lbs depending on the width of the ramp that you purchase. The ramps are constructed of anodized aluminum that meet aircraft quality standards for superior strength. The ramps are available in custom length options and 12" pair, 26", 30" and 36" widths.

For more information on Roll-A-Ramp click here.

To purchase a Roll-A-Ramp click here.

Performance Wheelchairs for Exercise and Competitive Sports

Invacare Model #FRCG Top End Force G Handcycle

Exercise is an important component of a healthy life and even if you are incapable of running like you used to, there are still ways to get a great workout to keep your cardiovascular system in shape.

If you do not able to run, one alternative is the Excelerator Handcycle, which is a bike that you power with your arms. It has a max speed of 15 miles per hour and is built to climb hills with ease. If your primary method of transportation is typically a wheel chair, you can still hit the trails or participate in bike races with this high-end hand bike.

There are even handcycling competitions across the country where top athletes compete like the Redlands Bicycle Classic in Redland, California or the Tour de Nez in Reno, Nevada.

Top End Force G Handcycle is a handcycle that is built for speed. The aerodynamic design allows for optimal acceleration and maximum speed. It's 27 speeds and high performance wheels are perfect for the more ambitious handcyclers who would like to "fly like a jet".

If you are interested in competitive wheelchair sports like basketball, then a Top End Paul Schulte Signature BB be what you need. This performance wheelchair was designed specifically for playing basketball with it's custom aluminum frame and high performance basketball wheels. Paul Schulte is a wheelchair basketball legend who plays for the US paralympic team and is also an engineer at Top End.

Check out all of Cascade Healthcare's performance wheelchairs here.

Hold Bandages in Place with Surgilast

Surgilast Tubular Elastic Bandage Retainer

Derma Sciences offers a product called Surgilast Tubular Elastic Dressing Retainer that holds a variety of wound care products and medical devices in place without needing adhesive tape. The product is a tubular elastic stretch net that applies gentle pressure to keep burn or post-op dressings, hot or cold packs, incontinence pads, IV tubes, and decubitus ulcer dressings in place. Other benefits include maximum air-flow, its customizable and is available in a variety of sizes.

To buy Surgilast click here.

To see other Derma Sciences products click here.