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Why should you vaccinate? Vaccinations protect you and the people around you from spreading unavoidable diseases that can lead to serious health complications. It’s important to stay up to date on your vaccinations, especially if you suffer from certain chronic diseases such as heart disease, asthma, or diabetes. Learn about what recommendations the CDC has on vaccinations you should receive depending on your chronic condition. Heart Disease, Stroke, or Other Cardiovascular Disease Why are vaccinations important to you? With heart disease, it may be harder to fight off certain diseases and easier to react to diseases that are out there. You want to protect yourself as best as possible by staying up to date on your vaccinations. Vaccinations you need: - Influenza Vaccine - Pneumococcal Vaccine - Tdap Vaccine - Zoster Vaccine Lung Disease and Asthma Why are vaccinations important to you? Without the proper care of taking vaccines, you are putting yourself at risk to get pneumonia and other serious respiratory illnesses. Vaccinations you need: - Influenza Vaccine - Pneumococcal Vaccine - Tdap Vaccine - Zoster Vaccine Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Why are vaccinations important to you? Having diabetes can put you at a greater risk of serious consequences if you were to get a certain infection. It will be harder for your immune system to fight the infection off. Vaccinations you need: - Influenza Vaccine - Pneumococcal Vaccine - Tdap Vaccine - Hep B Vaccine - Zoster Vaccine What are These Vaccinations? Influenza Vaccine - This vaccine protects against the four influenza viruses. These shots are commonly given with a needle in your arm. There is also the option of a nasal spray flu vaccine. - There are multiple types of flu vaccines. Here are just a couple: o Fluzone High Dose – available for people 65 years and older; contains a higher dose of antigen to create a stronger immune response. o Fluad Quadrivalent – available for people 65 years and older. Pneumococcal Vaccine - This vaccine helps to prevent pneumococcal disease which is any type of illness cause by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. - It is recommended by the CDC that these individuals receive PCV15 or PCV20 vaccination: o Adults 65 years or older. o Adults 19 through 64 years old with certain medical conditions or risk factors. Tdap Vaccine - This vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. - Tetanus is something you get through cuts or wounds. Diphtheria and pertussis are spread from person to person. - If you have never received the Tdap vaccine, you should get it. Also, you should receive a booster dose of Tdap or Td every 10 years. Hep B Vaccine - This vaccine protects against Hepatitis B. You can get infected by being in contact with the body fluids of someone that is already infected. - This can be an acute infection where you experience fever, fatigue, etc. This can also be a chronic infection which could lead to liver damage, liver cancer, etc. - You are immune for life once you get the Hepatitis B vaccine. Zoster Vaccine - This vaccine is also known as the shingles vaccine. Shingles is a painful rash that develops on the side of your body or torso. - Shingles can last anywhere from a month to several years. - The risk of getting shingles increases as you get older. How Pharmacists Can Help Pharmacists are also in a unique position to identify those patients who are in target groups for certain vaccinations. They may also be able to ease the fears of many patients by providing them with facts such as clinical data and by dispelling common misconceptions and myths about vaccinations; they can also stress the significant risks associated with not being vaccinated. Tria Health was founded on the belief that pharmacists play a vital role in the management of high-risk patients. With Tria, you have the option of receiving a one-on-one private consultation with one of Tria Health’s pharmacists over the phone. During your consultation, your pharmacist will review all your current medications, including vitamins, supplements, and lifestyle habits. Your pharmacist will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding vaccinations. Sources 1. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/index.html 2. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/health-conditions/heart-disease.html 3. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/health-conditions/lung-disease.html 4. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/health-conditions/diabetes.html 5. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/flushot.html 6. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/pneumo/index.html 7. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/tdap.html 8. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/hep-b.html 9. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/shingles/index.html

March 28th is Diabetes Alert Day, a day of awareness and education about diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a major public health issue, as it increases the risk of serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It is estimated that a little over 37 million Americans have diabetes, and nearly 1 in 5 of them are unaware that they have the condition. Diabetes Alert Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the condition and to encourage individuals to take the necessary steps to reduce their risk. Know Your Risk The most common type of diabetes is type 2 diabetes, which is caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, dietary habits, and exercise habits. Are you curious if you are at risk for type 2 diabetes? It takes just 60 seconds to find out! The American Diabetes Association recommends that individuals at risk for diabetes talk to their doctor about their risk and take steps to reduce it. This includes engaging in regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. These lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing diabetes and can help individuals manage their diabetes if they already have it. In addition to taking steps to reduce your risk, it is important to get tested for diabetes if you are at risk. Early detection and treatment can help prevent or delay the development of complications. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits of getting tested for diabetes. Knowing your risk and taking action can help you protect your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes-related complications. Tria Health & Diabetes Management If you are currently diagnosed with diabetes, Tria Health can assist you in managing your medications and finding a treatment plan that works for you. Diabetes is a disease that can be managed and prevented if you know what to do. At Tria Health, our pharmacists are certified diabetes care and education specialists (CDCES). They educate patients on medication management, diet, and exercise so patients with diabetes can live happy and active lives and reduce the risk of serious health complications. Resources The Facts, Stats, and Impacts of Diabetes | CDC American Diabetes Association | Research, Education, Advocacy Want to Learn More about Diabetes? Here are some more great resources to increase your awareness of diabetes and what steps you can take to manage or prevent diabetes. 4 Common Questions about Diabetes The Keto Diet and Diabetes What is the Diabetes Plate Method? Questions? Call us at 1.888.799.8742

Nutrition labels are a great way to make healthy food choices, and understanding the information on them is an important step to making nutritious choices for you and your family. In this blog, we will discuss the key components of a nutrition label and how to interpret them. We will also look at how to use the nutrition facts to make informed decisions about what you eat. By the end of this blog, you will have the knowledge and confidence to make healthy food choices. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) provides some useful insights into understanding and using the Nutrition Facts Labels. We will use a Modern Oats Cup as an example throughout the blog. Step 1: Always Check the Serving Size First The serving size is the amount of food or drink that is considered to be a single serving based on the recommended daily intake. It is important because it allows consumers to compare the nutrition facts of products and compare the nutrients they are getting in a single serving. Knowing the serving size also helps you to properly portion out your food, so you can understand how much you are consuming. Step 2: Total Carbohydrates The total carbohydrates on a nutrition facts label refers to the amount of carbohydrates in one serving of the food. This number includes sugar, fiber, and other complex carbohydrates. It is important to understand the total carbohydrates in a food because carbohydrates provide energy and can affect blood sugar levels. Step 3: Choose Foods with More Fiber, Vitamins, and Minerals It’s important to choose items that have higher dietary fiber. An increase in dietary fiber can make you have more regular bowel movements, lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and help you consume fewer calories. By consuming foods that are rich in vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium, one can lower the chances of acquiring illnesses such as osteoporosis, anemia, and high blood pressure. These minerals are essential for maintaining a balanced diet and keeping the body functioning properly. They help to regulate hormones, build strong bones and teeth, create energy, and keep the heart, muscles, and other organs working properly. It is important to consume the right amounts of each mineral, as deficiencies or an excess of any one can cause serious health problems. Step 4: Choose Foods with Lower Calories, Saturated Fat, Sodium, and Added Sugars. Calories provide the amount of energy that you are getting in one serving. In this example, since the serving size is one, if you eat the full container, you would be eating 230 calories. Now let’s say this container happened to be 2 servings, then if you ate the full container, you would be eating 460 calories. The general guide for nutrition advice recommends having 2,000 calories a day. However, this is a general amount, and your calorie intake may vary based upon your age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity level. Avoid eating too many calories, as this can lead to being overweight and obesity. Find out your daily calorie intake and get your personal food plan to set you up for success: https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-plan Saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars are important for determining the overall nutritional quality of a food item. Saturated fat is a type of fat that can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in large amounts, so it is important for consumers to be aware of the amount of saturated fat in their food. Sodium can be linked to high blood pressure, so it is important to know how much sodium a food contains. Lastly, added sugars can contribute to obesity and other health complications, so it is important to be aware of the amount of added sugars in a food item. What is the difference between total sugars and added sugars? Total sugars include sugars already present in foods and drinks including added sugars. Added sugars are the sugars that are added during the processing of the foods, foods packaged as sweeteners, sugars from syrups and honey, and sugars from concentrated fruit or vegetable juices. For example: The Modern Oats Cup has 12 grams of added sugar and only 1 gram of natural sugar. Step 4: Avoid Trans Fat Trans fat is a type of fat that is created when hydrogen is added to vegetable oil to make it solid. It is often used as a preservative in processed food products. Trans fat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, as it increases levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol in the blood. For this reason, it is recommended to avoid trans fats as much as possible. Here’s a few examples of food items high in trans-fat: Fried foods Doughnuts Baked goods including cakes, pies, crusts, biscuits, etc. By understanding the nutrition facts, you can decide if the food is right for you and your dietary needs. Knowing how to read a nutrition food label can help you lead a healthier lifestyle and make informed decisions about the food you eat. Resources https://www.fda.gov/food/new-nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/trans-fat

Eating a healthy diet is an important part of leading a healthy lifestyle. We are here to provide you with delicious, nutritious meal ideas for each time of the day. By incorporating these healthy meals into your daily diet, you can be sure to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function optimally. So, let's get cooking! Breakfast – The Most Important Meal of the Day Overnight Oats: Overnight oats are a great option for busy mornings as they only take a few minutes to prepare. Simply combine rolled oats, chia seeds, your favorite nut butter, and your favorite liquid (like almond or coconut milk). Then, top with your favorite fresh or dried fruits and nuts. This is a great way to get a healthy breakfast without having to cook anything. Eggs and Veggies: Eggs are a great source of protein, while the veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals. Try sautéing spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers with some olive oil and garlic. Then, add in some scrambled eggs and season with salt and pepper. Serve with some toast for more carbs and you’ve got a delicious and healthy breakfast. Smoothie Bowl: Smoothie bowls are a great way to get a nutritious breakfast in no time. Just blend some frozen fruit with your favorite nut milk and pour it into a bowl. Then, top with nuts, seeds, granola, and fresh fruit for a healthy and filling breakfast bowl. Lunch – Fuel Your Day A healthy lunch is essential to sustaining your energy levels throughout the day. Here are some healthy lunch ideas to help you stay energized and focused: Salad Bowl: Salads are a great way to get lots of veggies into your diet. Start with a base of dark leafy greens, then add in some grilled chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and quinoa. Top with your favorite dressing and some nuts or seeds for a delicious and nutritious lunch. Sandwich: Sandwiches are a classic lunch option. Choose whole grain bread or a wrap and fill it with lean protein like turkey or chicken, some vegetables, and some hummus or avocado for some healthy fats. Soup and Salad: Soup and salad is a great combination for lunch. Start with a base of veggies and some lean protein like chicken or turkey, then add in some broth and seasonings. Serve with a side salad for extra veggies and you’ve got a delicious and healthy lunch. Dinner - The Perfect Ending to Your Day Dinner is the perfect time to get creative with your cooking. Here are some healthy dinner ideas to help you end your day on the right note: Stir Fry: Stir fry is a great way to get a lot of veggies into your diet. Start with a base of brown rice, then add in your favorite vegetables and some lean protein like chicken or shrimp. Stir fry everything together in a pan with some olive oil and season with your favorite spices. Fish and Veggies: Fish is a great source of lean protein and healthy fats. Try grilling some salmon and serving it with roasted vegetables or a side salad. Veggie Burger: Veggie burgers are a great option for a healthy dinner. Look for brands that are made with whole grain buns and are packed with veggies and legumes. Serve with some sweet potato fries for a delicious and nutritious meal. The above meals are just a few of the many options you have when it comes to cooking a nutritious meal. Are you looking for more inspiration for meal ideas? Check out our Basic Nutrition Guidelines flyer! Chronic Conditions and Nutrition If you have a chronic condition, a carefully planned diet can make a huge difference. With certain diseases, what you eat may reduce some symptoms. In other cases, diet can improve health. Although your diet might differ depending on your condition and lifestyle, there are three healthy eating plan tips that will work for diabetes, heart health, cancer prevention and weight management: Eat meals and snacks regularly (at planned times). Eat about the same amount of food at each meal or snack. Choose healthful foods to support a healthy weight and heart. We Can Help You Tria Health’s Pharmacy Advocate Program offers one-on-one, private consultations with a Tria Health Pharmacist. During your consultation, your pharmacist will review all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. We also have health coaches available that can help you explore different dietary choices. Resources Tria Health_Basic Nutrition Guidelines (windows.net) Recipes | American Heart Association Recipes Questions? Contact the Tria Health Help Desk at 1.888.799.8742

Image Source: iStock.com/macrovector Allergy season is right around the corner! To prepare for allergy season, one of our pharmacists answered some frequently asked questions. How can I tell if I have allergies or just a common cold? Allergies are caused by the immune system’s response to allergens, things in an environment that cause irritation to the immune system, such as animal dander, pollen, dust, and mold. Some allergies are only bothersome with weather changes (cold to warm, dry to wet), while others are environmental and experienced year-round (pets, dust). Colds begin when the body has been exposed to a virus that leads to an infection of the immune system. Colds traditionally last a few days and cause mild illness. Colds can happen any time of year, most people experience colds a few times a year. Cold Symptoms: fatigue, aches and pains, sore throat, low-grade fever Allergy symptoms: itchy eyes, breathing difficulties Both: sneezing, coughing, congestion, runny nose What are common treatments for allergies? Nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort are steroid nasal sprays used to reduce an allergic response. Saline nasal spray can also be beneficial to reduce congestion. Non-drowsy antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), levocetirizine (Xyzal)and fexofenadine (Allegra) are helpful to reduce the body’s response to allergens. How do steroid nasal sprays work? Steroid nasal sprays are an effective treatment for most allergy symptoms. Steroid nasal sprays reduce the body's allergic response to allergens, reduce runny nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Do allergy shots work? Allergy shots are administered at regular intervals to reduce severe allergy symptoms. Each allergy shot contains a small amount of the allergen to allow the body to build up immunity to the allergen and reduce symptoms. During treatment, the body is slowly introduced to allergens and allowed to build up immunity over a long time. Can you take allergy pills and nasal spray together? Yes. For some patients, the combination of an allergy medication (antihistamine) and nasal spray is necessary to reduce bothersome symptoms. Steroid nasal sprays are considered first-line treatment for allergies, but antihistamines can be highly effective to treat allergies and reduce symptoms. If you are sensitive to nasal sprays, antihistamines can be affective therapy alone. Meet Your Tria Health Pharmacist Maggie Lewis Pharm.D., CDCES Have More Questions? Call the Tria Health Help Desk: 1.888.799.8742

Looking for recipes that are delicious as well as good for your heart? You’ve come to the right place! Find recipes below that are designed to provide your body with essential nutrients to help you maintain a healthy heart and lifestyle. We hope you enjoy discovering these delicious and nutritious meals! Spinach-Stuffed Baked Salmon This easy, delicious dish combines the flavors of fresh spinach, herbs, and salmon. The salmon is stuffed with a flavorful spinach mixture and then baked in the oven until desired doneness. Vegetable and Goat Cheese Phyllo Pie This flaky, buttery vegetable and goat cheese phyllo pie is an explosion of flavor in every bite. With its creamy goat cheese, crisp vegetables, and delicate phyllo dough crust, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts with Creamy Mushroom Sauce This delectable dish combines succulent pan-seared chicken breasts with a creamy mushroom sauce for an irresistible combination of flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or an everyday meal, this dish is sure to please! Fish Stew with Tomatoes This hearty fish stew with tomatoes is a flavorful and comforting meal. Fresh fish, juicy tomatoes, and warm spices are simmered together to create a savory and satisfying dish that will have you coming back for more. Tuscan Bean Soup This savory Tuscan Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is packed with flavor. A medley of white beans, vegetables, and spices are simmered in a rich and flavorful broth, making it the perfect meal to warm up on a cold day. Enjoy your delicious and heart-healthy meals! Have Any Questions for Us? Contact the Tria Health Help Desk at 1.888.799.8742. Sources https://recipes.heart.org/en/

Your body needs sodium to function! Sodium is regulated by your kidneys and helps control your body’s fluid balance. It also affects nerve impulses and muscle function. 2 Although sodium is needed for the body, too much sodium can raise blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and the number 1 killer worldwide. It is known as the “silent killer” because the symptoms are not always obvious. So, what does it look like to protect your heart when it comes to sodium intake? Hold the Salt The recommended daily amount of sodium is no more than 2.4 grams (2400 mg). That’s about 1 teaspoon of salt. This teaspoon includes all the salt and sodium for the day, including what you use in cooking, what’s already in food, and what you use at the table. 3 Before you are quick to grab the table salt at the table, consider how much salt is already included in your meal. Some common food sources of sodium include breads/rolls, pizza, cheese, and burritos/tacos. Find the top ten list here. Next time you go out to eat, look for items that are lower in sodium or hold off on adding extra salt. This is an extra step of protection for your heart! Tips For Reducing Salt and Sodium Rinse canned foods (e.g., tuna) to remove some of the sodium. Buy fresh, plain frozen, or “no salt added” vegetables. Use fresh poultry, fish, and lean meat instead of canned processed, or pre-prepared kinds. Limit how many convenience foods you eat. When you do choose to eat them, find ones that are low in sodium. Frozen pizza, microwave dinners, packaged mixes, canned soups or broths, and salad dressings usually have a lot of sodium. Read the labels carefully. Buy low- or reduced-sodium versions of foods. Items labeled “low sodium” must contain no more than 140 mg per serving, and “sodium free” or “salt free” foods must have only 5 mg per serving or less. Low Salt Doesn’t Mean Low Flavor Salt is a great way to add flavor to a meal! However, it’s not the ONLY way to spice up your meal. Try these spices as an alternative to salt: Tria Health is Here for You! Tria Health is a free and confidential benefit available through your health plan. If you have a chronic condition or take multiple medications, Tria Health’s pharmacists are ready to support you in managing your health. Pharmacists at Tria Health ensure that your medications work as intended and that you are on the right medications. They can also support you by creating a care plan specific to your needs and contacting your physician. Talk to a Tria pharmacist over the phone and receive the personalized care you deserve. Resources https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/sodium.htm https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/sodium-and-salt http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/files/docs/public/heart/hbp_low.pdf

This month marks American Heart Month, a time when we stress the importance of maintaining good heart health by spreading knowledge and awareness. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and the American Heart Association (AHA) is leading the way in providing resources and education about how to keep your heart healthy. Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease Eat a balanced diet and avoid processed and fatty foods. Consume foods high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Stress management is key. Stress can increase your risk of heart disease, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage it. Stroke and Heart Attack Symptoms American Heart Month is also an important time to talk about heart-related diseases, including stroke and heart attack. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these conditions is key to getting the help you need quickly. Stroke Symptoms Sudden weakness or numbness in face, arm, or leg Confusion Difficulty speaking Heart Attack Symptoms ​Chest pain or pressure Shortness of breath Nausea You should call 911 immediately if you experience any of these stroke or heart attack symptoms. By taking proactive steps to improve your heart health, you can reduce your risk of heart disease. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against heart disease. Watch a Tria Triumph - Heart Disease The patient challenge for this edition of Tria Triumphs highlights the issues around heart disease, and specifically, the often dangerous side effects of taking multiple medications – and the critical need for the expertise of a pharmacist. Watch now: Tria Health is Here for You! Tria Health is a free and confidential benefit available through your health plan. If you have a chronic condition or take multiple medications, Tria Health’s pharmacists are ready to support you in managing your health. Pharmacists at Tria Health ensure that your medications work as intended and that you are on the right medications. They can also support you by creating a care plan specific to your needs and contacting your physician. Talk to a Tria pharmacist over the phone and receive the personalized care you deserve. Resources https://www.heart.org/ https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/heart-healthy-living

January is National Blood Donor Month. Did you know that if just 1% more Americans donated blood, shortages would disappear? According to the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB) there is usually a critical shortage of blood at the beginning of the year due to the holidays and an increase of seasonal illnesses. Our goal today is to provide you with information about the benefits of donating, what the requirements are, and how you can get started. Benefits of Donating Blood By donating one unit of blood, you could potentially save multiple lives. Throughout the year, blood transfusions are constantly needed, which is why your donations are necessary. As stated by the AABB, blood transfusions can be used for a variety of reasons, including: “blood disorders, like hemophilia, sickle cell disease or thalassemia; cancer treatments that disrupt blood’s ability to deliver oxygen to the body; hemorrhage due to traumatic injury or childbirth; and to help recovery following a surgery.” Read more here to learn the process of how your donation affects a future patient: U.S. Blood Supply: From Donor To Patient (aabb.org) What is The Process? Will this be your first-time donating blood? No problem, here’s a quick overview of what to expect! Step 1. Before You Donate: First, you will need to find a location near you that has a blood donation center. Once you find a location, you can call the center and schedule an appointment. The helper may ask you for the following: Weight (most require you to weigh at least 110 pounds) Age (must be at least 16 years old and generally healthy) Two forms of identification If you have any health concerns or have recently traveled outside of the country Step 2. Pre-Donation Screening: Your pre-donation screening consists of a short health examination and a small amount of blood being tested to ensure that your blood iron level is sufficient for you to donate. Step 3. Blood Donation: At this point, if you pass your pre-donation screening, a health professional will start to draw your blood. Since you will be donating one unit of blood, this step will take about 6 to 10 minutes. Step 4. Post-Donation: Following a donation, there are a few things to keep in mind: Increase your fluid intake for the next 24-48 hours. Avoid heavy lifting or pulling with the donation arm for around 5 hours. Smoking and alcohol are not recommended. Ready to Donate? Find a location near you: https://www.aabb.org/for-donors-patients/give-blood Tria Health Tria Health is a no cost benefit available through select members’ health plans. Tria Health’s Pharmacy Advocate Program offers one-on-one, private consultations with a Tria Health Pharmacist. During your consultation, your pharmacist will review all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. Tria Health will assist you in identifying any possible drug interactions, possible medications you could discontinue, and savings opportunities! Resources National Blood Donor Month (aabb.org) Blood is an Essential Medicine Poster (aabb.org)

Did you know that pharmacists are medication experts? Pharmacists are so much more than people who wear white coats and dispense pills at counters. They hold a wealth of knowledge about medications and what medications will work best for you. Tomorrow is National Pharmacist Day and a great time to shine a spotlight on our pharmacists who have committed to playing a role in bettering the health of their patients. Why Our Community Needs Pharmacists The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy provides a few benefits that pharmacists can provide to a patient. Pharmacists are Easily Accessible Pharmacists are accessible to talk to you anytime of the week, without an appointment. They do dispense pills, but they can also provide services such as asthma care, blood pressure monitoring services, cholesterol screening, diabetes disease management, smoking cessation consultation, bone density scans for osteoporosis screening, anticoagulation management clinics and more. Pharmacists Work Alongside Your Physician Pharmacists communicate with your physicians to ensure that you are on the proper medications and avoid any harmful effects. They can provide the proper management for chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension, etc. Pharmacists Take a Whole Patient into Consideration Since pharmacists are medication experts, they can improve medication adherence. They take into consideration many factors that affect a patient’s ability to take a medication. These include diet, lifestyle, transportation, language barriers and much more. Now that you know the impact that pharmacists have in your community, the only appropriate response is to THANK YOUR PHARMACIST! Don’t miss your opportunity tomorrow to shine a light on all your pharmacist does. Watch a few of our Tria Triumphs to see the impact that pharmacist involvement in patient care has on the patient: Care Coordination: The patient challenge for this edition of Tria Triumphs highlights the critical importance of care coordination – and in this case – the need to overcome language barriers that keep patients from being able to effectively communicate their healthcare needs. Watch now: https://youtu.be/v67tilm3ENc Heart Disease: The patient challenge for this edition of Tria Triumphs highlights the issues around heart disease, and specifically, the often dangerous side effects of taking multiple medications – and the critical need for the expertise of a pharmacist. Watch now: https://youtu.be/xVPwhdpiGFg How Tria Health Pharmacists Can Help You Tria Health was founded on the belief that pharmacists play a vital role in the management of high-risk patients that drive most of the health care spend. Tria Health’s Pharmacy Advocate Program provides one-on-one confidential counseling with a Tria Pharmacist. Your pharmacist will review how effective your medications are in treating your conditions. Your Tria Pharmacist will work with you and your physicians to reduce the risk of medication-related problems. Want to Learn More about Tria Health Pharmacists? Call us at 1.888.799.8742 or visit our website at www.triahealth.com. Sources https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/celebrating-pharmacists-on-national-pharmacist-day https://www.aacp.org/resource/top-ten-reasons-become-pharmacist

Navigating the holidays comes with its own challenges without having to worry about how to maintain healthy blood sugar. How do you navigate the holiday season when you have diabetes without feeling overwhelmed by all the temptations? Diabetes affects approximately 25 million Americans, and nearly half live with some form of diabetes complications. The holidays bring added stressors, such as family gatherings, parties, and travel that can all complicate the management of good blood sugars. If you have diabetes, here are some tips to stay safe, healthy, and enjoy the festivities during the holidays. 4 Facts about Diabetes During the Holiday Season Holidays can lead to an increase in metabolic lab values, such as blood sugar, hemoglobin A1C, and cholesterol. Lab values have been reported higher in December and January and continue to remain elevated months following holiday festivities. It is important to maintain levels during holiday feasts to avoid changes to medication regimens and increased risks of long-term effects. It can be difficult to get back to pre-holiday health, so start off the holidays in the right mind set to stay healthy all season long. 6 Tips to Keep Your Diet and Health on Course While Enjoying Holiday Food and Festivities There is no denying that the holiday season is stressful, regardless of whether you have diabetes. There are lots of social events, food, and presents to celebrate. All these things can increase your chances of developing a serious illness or injury, especially if you have diabetes. Try these tips this holiday season to keep your diet and enjoy your holiday food! 1. Have a Plan Eat close to normal mealtimes. Bring a healthy option (veggie tray, salad, roasted veggies, low-carb casserole). Reduce carbs on plate by filling plate with lean meat and vegetables before adding carbs. Don’t skip a meal to feast later; this makes it hard to manage energy. Instead, try eating smaller meals throughout the day. 2. Don’t Get Caught in the Buffet Trap Use a small plate to limit portion sizes. Fill plate with healthy choices first. Savor the holiday favorites. Don’t scarf them down to get another plate, but slow down and enjoy them. 3. Keep Moving Be sure to get regular movement throughout the season. This could look like walking once a day, stretching every hour, or occasional toe taps on the couch. A little movement goes a long way! 4. Eat Slower Eating slowly allows you to enjoy your favorite meals while taking time to savor the flavors. Eating quickly can distract you from fullness cues and lead to overeating. 5. Get Rest The holidays are exhausting enough with running around, so give your body a break and get plenty of rest to recharge and relax. Plan for a regular bedtime most nights. When late nights are compounded, it can lead to irregular blood sugar, blood pressure, and added stress. 6. Consider Cooking at Home Homemade food is easier to regulate the recipe than store-bought or processed food. Recipes Healthy Green Bean Casserole Sweet Potato Casserole with Maple Pecan Topping Garlic Parmesan Roasted Butternut Squash Sources https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/27/2/326/28362/A-Prospective-Study-of-Glycemic-Control-During https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30658187/ https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/holidays-healthy-eating.html https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-holiday#tips-and-tricks Reviewed by Sarah Ochs Annie Tribble Maggie Lewis PharmD, CDCES, CSOWM PharmD, CDCES PharmD, CDCES

In the last 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes has more than doubled. Here are four common questions about diabetes and what you need to know. 1. What are the first signs of being a diabetic? Some of the symptoms of diabetes include: Urinate (pee) a lot, often at night Are very thirsty Lose weight without trying Are very hungry Have blurry vision Have numb or tingling hands or feet Feel very tired Have very dry skin Have sores that heal slowly Have more infections than usual If you start to experience any of these symptoms, immediately reach out to your provider. 2. What are the different types of diabetes and what do they mean? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three main types of diabetes affecting Americans: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is when your body stops making insulin. Your body is believed to react this way due to an autoimmune reaction. Most people fall into the Type 2 diabetes category. Type 2 diabetes is when your body doesn’t use insulin well and can’t control your blood sugar at normal levels. This type of diabetes develops over many years but can be avoided or delayed with certain life changes, such as losing weight, eating healthy food and being active. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women who have never had diabetes before. It fades away after the baby is born, but it does increase the risk of the mom and child having type 2 diabetes in the future. 3. How can I check if I have diabetes? More than 1 in 3 people in the United States have prediabetes – and do not know it. Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal. This can put you at a higher risk of having Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. So, how can so many people in the nation have prediabetes and not realize it? Usually, people don't experience symptoms until they've progressed to Type 2 diabetes. A convenient way to find out if you have prediabetes is to take a blood sugar test at your next doctor’s visit. The most common type of diabetes is type 2 diabetes, which is caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, dietary habits, and exercise habits. Are you curious if you are at risk of type 2 diabetes? It takes just 60 seconds to take the test below and find out! 4. Can diabetes be cured? Despite a lack of a cure for diabetes, it is manageable. With medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can live a healthy, active life. Speak to your health care provider about the most effective diabetes management plan. Check out these resources for more information about managing diabetes: - What is Diabetes and How Can I Manage It? - SMART Goals for Diabetes - Snacks for People with Diabetes - 4 Tips if You Drink Alcohol and Have Diabetes Tria Health & Diabetes Management If you are currently diagnosed with diabetes, Tria Health can assist you in managing your medications and finding a treatment plan that works for you. Diabetes is a disease that can be managed and prevented if you know what to do. At Tria Health, our pharmacists are certified diabetes care and education specialists (CDCES). They educate patients on medication management, diet, and exercise so patients with diabetes can live happy and active lives and reduce the risk of serious health complications. Resources 1. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html 2. https://myportal.triahealth.com/resources/diabetes