lifestyle health happiness Issue

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1 Sunflower lifestyle health happiness Issue H9870_ADVG001088

Passport Advantage is committed to being your partner in managing your healthcare. Our success in the state of Kentucky comes from really knowing what is important to your community.

2 Welcome to the Passport Advantage Newsletter Travel & Safety Tips to safely enjoy Kentucky s sunshine In the summer and fall, Kentucky is known for having tons of fun outdoor activities! While you re outside this season, remember that you have to protect yourself in different ways than in the winter. Letter from the Editor Hello Again Fellow Kentuckians! Passport Advantage is committed to being your partner in managing your healthcare. Our success in the state of Kentucky comes from really knowing what is important to your community. It comes from our fantastic family of network providers. And most importantly, it comes from YOU, our plan members! Your health and happiness will always be our most important job. Here are a few safety tips to keep you safe and healthy this summer! 1 Apply early and repeat often! Did you know that the sun s rays can burn your skin in as little as 15 minutes? Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Put it on about 20 minutes before you go outside. Reapply every 2 hours or sooner if you take a dip in the pool! 2 Dana Moody, Director of Community Engagement STAY HYDRATED On average, you should drink 6 to 8, 8-ounce glasses of water each day. But in warmer months, you ll definitely want to drink more to stay hydrated. This summer, we are proud to continue offering our awesome services to all members in Jefferson, Bullitt, Nelson, and Hardin counties. We hope you enjoy this issue of Sunflower. After all, it was written just for Kentuckians like you! Thank You and Happy Reading! WEAR SUNSCREEN Try having a fresh glass of water before and after every outdoor activity. 3 PLAN AHEAD TIMING IS EVERYTHING Try to plan outdoor activities ahead of time. Then you can avoid peak-sun hours (usually 11 a.m. 4 p.m.). Clothing and hats can also help protect you from the sun. And don t forget, you can always chill in the shade too! 1 Passport Advantage (HMO SNP) Sunflower

3 Better Breathing Why is it so hard to quit smoking? Most people know that smoking is bad for your health. It can also be bad for people around you. But sometimes, knowing something is bad doesn t make it easier to stop. In fact, most smokers have tried quitting at least once, but couldn t. So, what gives? Why is it so hard to quit smoking? For starters, nicotine is very addictive. It excites pleasure centers in the brain, so when a person who smokes quits, they have withdrawal symptoms like tiredness or a short temper. Of course, every person experiences this a little differently. But the resulting discomfort can make people want to start smoking again. It can also be hard for people to stop smoking because of the routine. Many smokers have daily routines like lighting up after eating or taking a break from work. These behaviors can be just as hard to deal with as the physical need. But it s important to remember that it s never too late to quit. Additionally, research says genetics can play into why it s hard to stop using tobacco products. Genetics can impact a person s urge to start smoking or a person s ability to keep smoking and become a smoker. This may explain why some people totally dislike smoking. It may explain why some people can just smoke occasionally. And why others become regular smokers. In the long run, quitting smoking is really hard no matter what kind of smoker you are. But it s important to remember that it s never too late to quit. You don t have to do it alone. If you or a loved one is ready to quit, the American Lung Association has the tools and tips you need. For more information, please visit Issue

4 Healthy Living Easy ideas for more organized living Sometimes, cleaning your house is the last thing you want to do. But did you know that making a few small changes could help a LOT with getting organized? Here are 5 simple ways to repurpose, regroup, and tidy up your everyday life. 1. Make the Bed It is as simple as it sounds! Take a few extra seconds to make your bed each morning. It will make your bedroom look bigger AND it will give you a sense of well-being. Don t believe us? Research has shown that people who make their beds every day are more productive and better at sticking to a budget. Sounds like a win/win! 2. Use an Ice Cube Tray as an Organizer Do you have lots of tiny knick-knacks like earrings or hair-pins laying around? Get them in order by using a plastic ice cube tray to group similar items. 3. Conquer Clothing Clutter Plan your outfits for the whole week on the weekend. This hack is great for both kids and adults. By planning what you want to wear for the week on Sundays, you ll have one less thing to do each night before bed. 4. Start a Recipe Binder No one wants to come home after a long day and have to figure out what to cook for dinner. Starting a recipe binder will keep all your family favorites in one place for quick meals. If you re looking to expand your family s list, try starting an Ideas section in your recipe binder to keep track of all those whacky recipes you ve wanted to make! 5. Store Cleaning Supplies in a Shoe Organizer Boost the space in your home by storing cleaning supplies in an over-the-door shoe organizer. It will keep dangerous cleaners out of reach for the kids and helps you see everything. You can tackle messes in no time. 3 Passport Advantage (HMO SNP) Sunflower

Heart Health Medication Management Fall in love with your own heart! Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States? It s true.

Just like personal relationships need compassion and love, your relationship with your heart needs attention too! This season, give your hardest working muscle some TLC!

5 Heart Health Medication Management Fall in love with your own heart! Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States? It s true. Each year, about 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease because so many of us take our hearts for granted. Just like personal relationships need compassion and love, your relationship with your heart needs attention too! This season, give your hardest working muscle some TLC! Communicate: Get to know your heart. Understand your personal risk factors and learn about your family history. Listen: Be aware of how your heart feels. Make medical care for your heart a priority. Be sensitive to noticing any new symptoms. Nourish: Treat your heart to fresh veggies, fruits, nuts, whole grains, fish, and other healthy foods. Share Enjoyable Activities: Get your heart going with exciting and enjoyable physical activity to build endurance and strength. Defend: Protect your heart from the effects of unhealthy habits like smoking or the use of other tobacco products. Be sure to take prescribed medications as directed. Dedication: Show your heart how committed you are by monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and blood sugar. Getting the most out of your medications Working with your doctor on a prescription medication plan is crucial for healthy living. Your doctor will consider things like your age, any allergies you have, and your budget when deciding which medications are right for you. That s why it is always important to take medicine exactly the way your doctor tells you. Check your status by marking all the boxes below that might apply to you: I sometimes forget a dose I have trouble paying for my medicine I take every dose, every day, just like my doctor told me I don t understand how my medication is supposed to be taken I often forget to take my medicine The side effects of my medicine bother me Take this list with you next time you visit your doctor. Discuss any challenges you might be facing. Then, you and your doctor can adjust your plan so it s easier for you to follow. Issue

Healthy Eating Healthy recipes to celebrate YOU GROWN-UP GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES For an updated take on a childhood favorite, try pairing grilled cheese ingredients with fresh veggies and bacon for

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup red onion, sliced vertically 1 large clove garlic, minced 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheese (try reduced-fat cheddar) 8 slices white bread 2 cups spinach leaves (fresh or frozen) 8

Add sliced red onion and garlic, cook for 10 minutes or until tender and golden brown, stirring occasionally. 2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons cheese over each of 4 bread slices.

6 Healthy Eating Healthy recipes to celebrate YOU GROWN-UP GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES For an updated take on a childhood favorite, try pairing grilled cheese ingredients with fresh veggies and bacon for a warm sandwich that feels super indulgent! INGREDIENTS: 1 cup red onion, sliced vertically 1 large clove garlic, minced 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheese (try reduced-fat cheddar) 8 slices white bread 2 cups spinach leaves (fresh or frozen) 8 slices (1/4 inch thick) tomato 6 slices bacon, cooked DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat large skillet over medium-low heat and coat pan with cooking spray. Add sliced red onion and garlic, cook for 10 minutes or until tender and golden brown, stirring occasionally. 2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons cheese over each of 4 bread slices. Top each slice with ½ cup spinach, 2 tomato slices, 2 tablespoons onion mixture, and 1 ½ bacon slices. Sprinkle each with 2 tablespoons cheese, and top with the remaining 4 bread slices. 3. Heat skillet over medium heat and coat pan with cooking spray. Place sandwiches in pan and cook for 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cheese melts. 5 VEGETARIAN TORTILLA CASSEROLE In addition to this recipe being delicious, it s budget friendly, fast, and gluten-free! INGREDIENTS: 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into ¼ inch thick rounds Salt 1 cup shredded cheese (try mozzarella) 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese Twelve 6-inch corn tortillas 4 green onions, sliced 1 cup salsa 1 large tomato, sliced ¼ inch thick 1 thawed, 9-ounce package frozen, chopped spinach, squeezed dry DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Arrange the squash slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Bake for 10 minutes, flipping squash about halfway through. 2. Combine mozzarella, parmesan, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. 3. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray and arrange 4 of the tortillas in the bottom of the dish so they overlap. Top with the squash slices and half the diced green onion. Drizzle 1/3 cup of salsa over vegetables and top with 1/3 of the cheese mixture. 4. Add another 4 tortillas and top with the sliced tomatoes and spinach. Drizzle 1/3 cup of the remaining salsa over the tomatoes and top with half the remaining cheese mixture. 5. Finish building the casserole with the remaining 4 tortillas, salsa, and cheese mixture. Bake uncovered 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown. Garnish with the remaining green onions. WHOLE WHEAT PEANUT BUTTER CHIP COOKIES For an affordable dessert that celebrates peanut butter with a healthy wheat twist. Note: Makes 3 dozen INGREDIENTS: 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 bag peanut butter chips 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature 2/3 cups chunky peanut butter 1 1/3 cups light brown sugar 1 egg 1 egg yolk 1 tablespoon vanilla DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine oil, butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla to mixing bowl and mix until well incorporated. 4. In a medium bowl, sift flower, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the peanut butter mixture and mix slowly until most of the flour is incorporated. 5. Add peanut butter chips and mix until well distributed (best mixed by hand) 6. Scoop cookie dough into rounded balls on a baking sheet, placing balls approximately 2 inches apart. Using a fork, flatten each cookie by pressing a crisscross pattern on top of each ball. 7. Bake for minutes or until cookies are golden brown. 8. Cool on the pan for three minutes before transferring from baking sheet to cool completely.

7 PAD Commitment to Community Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit When was the last time you visited your Primary Care Physician? For example, when was the last time you went to the doctor for the following: mammography, prostate exam, cholesterol screening, flu shot, diabetes screening, etc? If it s been longer than a year, schedule your Annual Wellness Visit today! Don t forget to take the following with you: List of your medications and/or supplements Full list of current providers or suppliers involved in your care Medical records, including immunization records (if available) Prioritizing Primary Care 10 QUESTIONS doctors wish their patients would ask A curious patient is a healthy patient! When you go to the doctor, it s usually for a specific issue. But next time you re there, take advantage of your time with them. Ask for more information about your overall health. Try some of these questions to get you started: 1. What should I work on before my next visit? 2. Is there more than one condition that could be causing my problem? 3. What can I do to prevent this from happening again? 4. Do we have to treat this now? Or can we revisit it later? 5. What outcome should I expect from this treatment plan? 6. When should I come see you again? 7. How will I hear about my results? 8. Why am I taking this medication? What can side effects should I expect? 9. Should I be screened for other conditions today? 10. What questions haven t I asked that I should have? Additional Information We Want to Hear From You! At Passport Advantage, we are always here for you and your loved ones. Let us know what you want to hear about in our next newsletter by calling us at (TTY/TDD users, please call 711). Issue

5100 Commerce Crossings Drive Louisville, KY 40229 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL US POSTAGE PAID LOUISVILLE, KY PERMIT #712 Contact Us Passport has member service representatives ready to serve you.

8 5100 Commerce Crossings Drive Louisville, KY PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL US POSTAGE PAID LOUISVILLE, KY PERMIT #712 Contact Us Passport has member service representatives ready to serve you. Call us! Passport Advantage Passport Health Plan 5100 Commerce Crossings Drive Louisville, KY Member Services TTY (TTY/TDD users, please call 711) Available from 8 am to 8 pm EST Monday Friday from February 15 to September 30 and 7 days a week from October 1 to February 14.

March How Food Labels Help You Detect Food Allergens

March How Food Labels Help You Detect Food Allergens Healthy Families March 2018 Food Allergies and Intolerance How Food Labels Help You Detect Food Allergens Food labels can help you choose the foods that best fit into your meal plan so that you can avoid