-----DENTAL HYGIENE-----
We're about to start a New Year and one area most people don't think of when it comes to resolutions is their oral hygiene. But, it's more important than you may think. We have some tips for healthy teeth and gums.
Today's talking points:
How can we improve our oral hygiene and dental care in an instant?
What happens when our oral hygiene suffers?
Americans - and especially New Yorkers - are always pressed for time. Is that the reason why most of us don't take the time to floss or even brush?
How can you do the right thing in a minimum amount of time?
Is there a diet that enhances oral hygiene?
What's the low down on mouth wash?
Are tooth picks really effective?
-----WOMEN HEALTH INSURANCE-----
Helping you with your health insurance woes, there are 47- million Americans that are uninsured, but even those who are covered are still met with finding doctors who take their plan, high co-pays and no out- of- network coverage. So, what can you do to unwind your insurer's red tape?
With us this morning with some tips is the health director of More Magazine, Cary Barbor.
WHAT ACTIONS CAN YOU TAKE BEFORE YOU GET SICK?
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH PLAN IS BEST FOR YOU?
WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU'RE DENIED?
BEFORE YOU GET SICK:
Ask to see a copy of your insurance contract; check for signs you may not be fully covered in case of serious illness: once the deductible is met, you don't have 100% coverage, or the insurer may list that it wont go over $25,000 for cancer care.
Keep track of every conversation you have with the insurance company; it may become invaluable should your claim reach litigation.
IF YOU'RE DENIED:
Start with your companies appeals process. There are plans that have a policy of denying everything, and then only paying if its appealed.
Get your doctor involved immediately.
Put your complaint in writing and send to head of customer service, your company's rep and the medical director.
Have your human resources department contact the agency; calls may be returned faster
Find out if you qualify for free help in navigating the system by going to familiesusa.org and searching for Consumer Assistance Program.
-----COOKING WITH TEA-----
The next time you decide to whip up a new dish, how about adding some tea? Joining us this morning to explain the benefits and show us some recipe ideas is chef Thomas Piede of the Peninsula New York.
Benefits of cooking with tea
Consumption of tea is being studied for its reported benefits on combating heart disease, lowering LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of several types of cancer, while enhancing the immune system, aiding digestion, protecting skin and strengthening bones and teeth.
Tea contains antioxidants that help remove free radicals in the body.
Promotes heart health (may help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure (green and oolong teas), and blood clotting.)
Aids in lowering "bad" cholesterol (black and green tea.)
Aids in cancer prevention and reducing tumor growth (black and green tea.)
Aids in boosting the immune system, preventing allergy, cold and flu.
Aids in reducing blood sugar levels and in the maintenance of bone health.
Aids in reducing harmful effects from cigarettes smoking.
Provides natural fluoride helping prevent cavities and tooth decay.
Acts as a natural stress and fatigue reliever.
Helps maintain fluid balance.
May help with weight loss and weight maintenance.
Any tea that you enjoy to drink can be used for cooking. Experiment and have fun! Add tea to soups, sauces, desserts and spice rubs. It's a marinade, a tenderizer and a condiment.
Recipes:
Soba Noodle Salad with Chipotle Chicken, Cocoa and Lapsang Souchong Tea.
Roasted Maine Lobster Medallions with Matcha and Grilled Asparagus
About Chef Thomas Piede
Prior to joining The Peninsula New York as Executive Sous Chef in 2003, Chef Piede held several positions at prestigious New York institutions, including Gotham Bar and Grill, Aureole, and Le Cirque, where he was fortunate to cook with several of the most prestigious chefs in the country. As Executive Chef, Piede oversees all outlets within the hotel, including Fives restaurant, Gotham Lounge, Room Service and all banqueting functions.
For more information, go to www.newyork.peninsula.com or
www.peninsulaboutique.com
-----BEST OF 2007-----
We've seen all kinds of new products develop over the last year. Here to show us his picks for the best consumer electronics products of 2007 is Joshua Fruhlinger, the executive editor of switched.com.
iPhone
Amazon Kindle
Marantz A/V receiver - HDMI 1.3
Gateway M-Series Notebook
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