U.S. News and World Report released its rankings of the best and worst diets for 2015. A panel of experts rated each diet on a scale of one to five based on “short-and long-term weight loss, ease of following, nutrition, safety and performance as a diabetes and heart diet.” Topping the list were the DASH Diet, TLC Diet, and tying for third the Mayo Clinic Diet, Mediterranean Diet and Weight Watchers. In last place were The Fast Diet, Atkins, Raw Food Diet, Dukan Diet and Paleo Diet. The winning DASH Diet emphasizes loading up on whole grains and vegetables and is reported as the best for overall health, heart health, diabetes, healthy eating, nutrition, safety and ease of use.
Late in 2014, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center became the first hospital in the state recognized as a Level 1 WellSpot by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. A WellSpot is an organization or place that has voluntarily implemented changes to make healthy living easier for Louisiana residents. The program has three qualification levels, and criteria vary according to the type of organization or business. It includes initiatives such as a tobacco-free and workplace fitness polices, being breastfeeding friendly, having a 50 percent healthy vending machine inventory and for restaurants, training on food allergies and healthy food options are on the list. To find a WellSpot location or register to qualify as one, visit WellAheadLA.com.
Gifted Healthcare is making a push to expand its clinical staff in 2015, on the heels of a 3,500-square-foot expansion of its corporate operations in Metairie. The company provides staffing services of healthcare professionals to hospitals and medical practices, as well as private, in-home and travel nurses. Locally it also has offices in Covington, with divisions in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; a travel division in Dallas; and offices throughout Mississippi.
