Shelly Sloan is the health promotion coordinator and Ted Winkworth is the alcohol and other drug program coordinator. You can find them at The Lifestyles Center in Walker Health Center. Shelly received her master’s degree in community health education and is certified in health education. Ted received his master’s degree in counseling and is also a credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor.
Dear Shelly and Ted,
Does the mood you are currently in before consuming alcohol enhance that same mood when you drink?
Signed,
Judy Moody
Dear Judy Moody,
Drinking will typically intensify whatever mood you’re in before you start drinking. One of the real problems that some people run into is trying to drink to get into a partying mood. If you’re in a rough place before you start, chances are that drinking will make things worse. If you’re feeling angry or sad it’s probably a good idea to lay off the booze so you don’t end up fighting or crying your way through the night.
Signed,
Ted
Dear Shelly and Ted,
When is it the appropriate time to drink a protein shake?
Signed,
Workout Wade
Dear Workout Wade,
I am no expert on this topic, so I have consulted with Brian Wallace (Manager of Cooper and Glimmerglass Fitness Centers) and Sarah Formoza (Registered Dietitian with Auxiliary Services) on this question. Both agree that if you drink protein shakes at all, it is best to drink them post workout to regenerate muscle. Mornings are another good time to drink them. A better question would be, though, can you get these nutrients through whole foods (which is the recommendation)? Try drinking carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks to replace electrolytes and fluids lost through sweat. Some recovery snack ideas may include a smoothie made with yogurt and frozen berries or graham crackers with peanut butter, low fat chocolate milk and a banana. If you are going for a post workout meal, try a rice bowl with beans, cheese, salsa, avocado and whole wheat tortilla or whole grain tortilla chips. If you do not have an appetite following a workout or training session, make sure that you choose liquid foods that will meet the goals of recovery for your body.
Signed,
Shelly
Dear Shelly and Ted,
What are the effects of taking Plan B regularly?
Signed,
Daily Habit
Dear Daily Habit,
I would start by asking why someone would need to take Plan B regularly. Plan B should never be used as birth control—that is not the intent. It is to be used as a backup method. If someone is using Plan B because they don’t feel like getting on birth control or getting condoms or other barrier methods, then I would ask that they re-evaluate their use. The side effects are not pleasant; things like nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, menstrual changes, dizziness, breast tenderness, vomiting and diarrhea aren’t things that someone would want to deal with on a regular basis. Also worth mentioning: the cost! It will cost you $20 each time at Walker Health Center and even more at any pharmacy. That can add up fast! Also, studies have shown that using birth control is significantly better at reducing pregnancy over Plan B. Please consider other methods and talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions.
Signed,
Shelly
If you have a question, you can submit anonymously at www.lifestylecenter.net/RealTalk or send a Direct Message on Twitter @LSC_Oswego
