Mixed flavor juice

Mixed flavor juice growing by 100 million litres in troubled global juice market   A new report by Canadean reveals that global sales of mixed flavour, HPP and cold-press products are increasing in an otherwise declining juice* market, due to growing health awareness among Western consumers and the exploding demand for juice in emerging markets.  In recent years consumers have started to favour premium juices with mixed flavours over historically popular single flavours such as orange and apple. Canadean's latest annual Soft Drinks Market Insight reports find that global sales of orange and apple juice declined by half a billion litres between 2013 and 2014 to under 12 billion litres. This compares with more than 13.5 billion litres of combined global sales only five years ago in 2009. "In many Western markets fewer people have a traditional breakfast meal and more consumers are concerned about the high sugar content of juices. Flavour mixes are providing a much-needed volume boost for struggling juice manufacturers," says Chris Strong, analyst at Canadean.          Source: Canadean The research reveals that more exotic and unusual flavour combinations are beginning to emerge, including vegetable juices, blood orange and passionfruit. On a global basis, mixed flavours have grown by a 2% CAGR between 2011 and 2014 compared to a 2% decline for the juice category overall. This translates into a volume rise of around 100 million litres in only three years, from 1.6 to 1.7 billion litres. In the leading North America market the segment recorded almost 8% growth, despite production difficulties due to rising raw material costs and crop shortages. Similar success has been seen in West Europe where mixed flavours rose by 1% in 2014, against a 5% decline for the juice category overall. HPP and cold-pressed juices meet consumer demand for fresh produce Together with value-added innovations such as cold-pressed and high-pressure processed (HPP) products, flavour mixes meet growing consumer demand for innovative and high quality beverages. "HPP and cold-pressed juices are particularly interesting for manufacturers. They not only satisfy consumer demand for fresh products where ingredients and taste have not been impacted by industrial processing, but can also be sold at premium prices," adds Strong.     China and India driving mixed-flavour growth in 2015 Flavour mixes are expected to continue their robust performance into 2015, with up and coming markets in Asia, particularly China and India, helping to drive growth due to rising disposable incomes. Since 2011, flavour mixes have increased by nearly 40 million litres in these two countries, reaching a pooled volume of over 81 million litres in 2014, and are expected to grow by a further 14% in 2015. Canadean forecasts mixed flavours to make inroads into the wider juice category globally as well, taking a share of almost 10% by the end of the year. *   *   * Editor's notes All numbers used in this text are based on the Canadean's annual Soft Drinks Market Insight reports, published in May/June 2015. * Juice is defined as 100% pure juice Canadean expects mixed flavour juices to continue to record healthy growth. About Canadean Canadean provides in-depth market research across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, including food, packaging, ingredients, soft drinks, beer, retail, wines & spirits, cosmetics & toiletries, foodservice, baby food, tobacco and travel & tourism. Canadean specialises in conducting online survey panels, producing in-depth market insight country reports through qualitative and quantitative research. For updates, please follow us on twitter, LinkedIn or visit www.canadean.com

Ready-to-Eat Organic Products

EARTHBOUND FARM LAUNCHES NEW, READY-TO-EAT ORGANIC PRODUCTS:

CULINARY-INSPIRED SALAD KITS AND KALE CAESAR POWERMEAL® BOWL

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA, Calif. – (July 2015) – Earthbound Farm, the nation's leading grower of organic produce, launched several new, certified organic, ready-to-eat products just in time for summer celebrations and outdoor adventures. Three new organic salad kits – Kale Caesar, Sun-Washed Mediterranean and Garden Party – take familiar salad flavors with premium ingredients and give them a fresh, delicious and all-organic twist; and the organic Kale Caesar PowerMeal Bowl is the fourth and newest flavor in the popular line of plant-based, single-serve bowls.

"Quick, convenient and simple meals should not be boring! Food boredom can lead to overeating or wanting a treat after the meal," said Ashley Koff, Registered Dietitian for Earthbound Farm. "The new Earthbound Farm organic Salad Kits are anything but boring – they are a perfect marriage of convenient, delicious and nutritious – the three things I look for in meals and snacks. Their new organic Kale Caesar PowerMeal Bowl is packed with a variety of important nutrients from plants that anyone can quickly assemble for a tasty main meal. It's perfect for a lunch on the go, an outdoor adventure or a picnic." 

Developed with Earthbound Farm's Executive Chef Sarah LaCasse, the one-of-a-kind, all-organic "Classic Salads for the Modern Palate" offer bold flavors with tender leafy greens, gourmet dressings and premium toppings that make it easy to round out any meal with a delicious, nutritious salad.

• Organic Kale Caesar Salad Kit (Rich & Spicy) includes tender baby kale, crunchy red and green cabbage and sweet shredded carrots packaged together with roasted sunflower seeds, flavorful aged Parmesan cheese, crunchy multi-grain croutons and a spicy lite Caesar dressing.
• Organic Sun-Washed Mediterranean Salad Kit (Savory & Tangy) is composed of earthy spinach, peppery arugula and bitter radicchio packaged together with chewy sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy roasted chickpeas, tangy feta cheese and a Greek dressing with sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives.
• Organic Garden Party Salad Kit (Festive & Fruit Forward) includes spring mix and Asian greens together with chewy, mildly tart dried wild blueberries and cranberries, zesty feta cheese and a slightly sweet raspberry-balsamic vinaigrette.

The only all-organic salad bowl kits on the market, the new Kale Caesar PowerMeal Bowl expands the line with a contemporary twist on the traditional Caesar Salad. This best-in-class bowl is complete with hearty and nutrient-dense baby kale, red and green cabbage and sweet shredded carrots packaged together with roasted sunflower seeds, tangy aged Parmesan cheese, crunchy multi grain croutons and a spicy lite Caesar dressing.
Like all Earthbound Farm products, the Salad Kits and PowerMeal Bowls include produce grown in accordance with the company's industry-leading food safety and organic integrity programs, and all items are certified organic.

Earthbound Farm's Classic Salad Kits for the Modern Palate (9-10 oz. bags) are available now with a SRP of $4.99-$5.99. Each kit offers two and a half to three servings, compared to other salad kits offering only two servings per package.

Earthbound Farm's PowerMeal Bowls (4.93 – 5.58 oz. clamshells made from recycled plastic bottles) are shipping now with a suggested retail price (SRP) of $4.99. All bowls range from 200-300 calories with 5-10 grams of protein per bowl.

For product coupons in addition to tips and recipes for happier, healthier living, sign up for Organic Bound, Earthbound Farm's web-based magazine and newsletter.

About Earthbound Farm
Earthbound Farm, based in San Juan Bautista, Calif., is a leading organic food company bringing the benefits of fresh, flavorful and healthy organic foods to as many people as possible. From its signature Spring Mix to its fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables, herbs and snacks, Earthbound offers an array of tasty and nutritious food with the goal of making a healthy difference in the way America eats. Whether fresh, frozen, dried or packaged, for 30 years Earthbound has specialized in growing food from the soil organically, fostering the health and harmony of the ecosystem. Earthbound Farm is a WhiteWave Foods company. For more information, visit www.ebfarm.com and follow @earthboundfarm on Twitter.

Medical care

New Medical Thriller Asks: What Constitutes Harm?

"First do no harm," is a modern interpretation of the Hippocratic Oath physicians take when they begin their careers. Although these words are not found in the original oath, the intent is the same. Physicians promise to treat patients to the best of their ability and never, knowingly, cause harm to their patients.

But what if a physician's "best" included magical powers?

Larry Krantz, M.D., combines his love for writing with his background as a physician in his compelling new book, Strange Miracles. Intrigued by popular television shows and movies, he explores the notion of psychic and magical powers used for healing.

Jordan Wilkins is a doctor in a rural town in Missouri, where he discovers the remarkable ability to heal people in unexpected and magical ways. While the results are amazing, many in the community soon wonder if Jordan will expect payback. Despite his medical success, Jordan, his wife and handicapped teenage son are confronted with frightening and unexpected opposition.

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Breana Cruz has great perceptive ability and could have been a curandera, or intuitive healer. Along with Jordan, they are recruited to the Proteus Project to hone and perfect their skills. Before long, however, they wonder if the Proteus Project is as benevolent as it appears, or has a darker side.

Through a journey of self-discovery and an examination of human character, Strange Miracles asks:

• What would you do with the gift of perception and the ability to change physical forms by intent alone?
• Can a person change, for better or worse, if they make the wrong choice?
• How can we use power selflessly and not be seduced by corruption?
• What does history teach us about miracles?
• Do miracles still happen? What are examples of everyday miracles?

"As a physician, I have seen the miracle of unexpected cancer remissions and cures of other diseases that defy explanation," says Dr. Krantz. "I believe there is a place of stillness where extraordinary things can be seen and heard that are often lost in the noise of human affairs and worries."

About Dr. Larry Krantz

Dr. Larry Krantz is a graduate of Cornell University, where he was an Honors English student, but went on to study medicine, becoming a physician and Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Colorado Medical School. He now writes fiction full time and teaches creative writing. He is the author of Dreams of Atlantis and Strange Miracles. Along with his wife and son, he enjoys the Rocky Mountains, biking, sports, fun, growing organic vegetables, sunshine, and meaningful conversations.

Learn more about Dr. Krantz at http://www.larrykrantzauthor.com/ and connect with him onFacebook.

Strange Miracles is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and NetGalley.

Stay Hydrated with Clean ZEROWATER filtration systems

Hydration is key to staying healthy and keeping with your fitness regimen and goals.  Zerowater is the ONLY gravity fed filtration system on the market to meet the Food and Drug Administration's requirements for Total Dissolve Solids (all the gunk in your water) in purified water, meaning you can get quality water at home or on the go with their range of products.  ZeroWater, the only comparable alternative to purified bottled water, brings a new premium water solution and functionality to consumers.

Zerowater products range in 6C to 23C as well as a Tumbler for on the go, a Mini Filter that will replace a BRITA filter, as well as the new ReadyPour that you no longer have to wait on the water to filter. Below is a description of several of the products.

• ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher - NEW 2015
  Get the great-tasting water of ZeroWater's patented five-stage Ion Exchange system, but without the wait. ZeroWater's ReadyPour pitcher is the first in its class that has a sealed lid and reservoir, making it possible to pour water that has already been filtered without spilling water that's still filtering. This means the reservoir can now be kept full, adding up to two cups' capacity.

• ZeroWater Mini-Filter - NEW 2015
  Introducing the first premium filter for Brita pitchers. Brita customers can finally enjoy filtered water free of virtually all dissolved solids with the ZeroWater 5-Stage filter for Brita pitchers and dispensers. This premium filter offers an alternative to the standard 2-stage Brita filter, which can only remove about 50% of dissolved solids in tap water.  This filter enables filtered water drinkers to try the latest filter technology without having to commit to purchasing a whole new filtration system.  In addition, the Mini-Filter also has color change technology on each filter to indicate when replacement is needed.

• ZeroWater Tumbler - ZeroWater's 5-stage, ion exchange filtration system is now available in a personal, 26-ounce tumbler with the next generation in filter replacement technology.  Each filter is designed with a "Color Change" window which indicates when to replace the filter.  These tumblers fit in most cupholders and allow great tasting water straight from the tap, whether at home or on-the-go. MSRP $14.99

• ZeroWater Stainless Steel Pitcher - Great-tasting water now comes in a modern, stainless steel design. BPA free, this 8-cup ZeroWater pitcher prioritizes both form and function in that it is constructed from stainless steel and translucent black plastic. It comes with a laboratory-grade water testing meter that indicates precisely when it's time to change the filter while demonstrating how ZeroWater leaves virtually zero dissolved solids in water. Also included is one 5-stage dual ion-exchange filter and a guarantee for great-tasting water. MSRP $39.99

Medicare coverage

On its 50^th anniversary, more than 55 million Americans covered by Medicare

New Medicare state-by-state enrollment numbers

As Medicare and Medicaid celebrate their 50th anniversary protecting the health and well-being of millions of seniors, people with disabilities and low-income individuals, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today released updated Medicare state-by-state enrollment numbers, showing that more than 55 million Americans are covered by Medicare.

In 1966, approximately 19.1 million Americans were covered by Medicare. In 2012, there were nearly 52 million beneficiaries covered by Medicare. Today's enrollment numbers represent a three million person increase during the last three years as the Baby Boom generation has started to retire. Medicare beneficiaries depend on the program to provide critical health services such as preventive services, including flu shots and diabetes screenings, hospital stays, lab tests and critical supplies like wheelchairs and prescription drugs.

"Over the last 50 years, Medicare has become part of the fabric of our communities, protecting the well-being and financial security of millions of American families as they age or if they become disabled. In doing so, Medicare has kept up with dramatic demographic changes and led the charge toward improving health care delivery," said Andy Slavitt, CMS acting administrator. "As we preserve and advance Medicare for future generations, we are focused on helping build a better system with smarter spending that keeps people healthier."

CMS also releases state-by-state Medicaid enrollments on a monthly basis. As of May 2015, over 71.6 million individuals were enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) with 12.8 million more gaining coverage since 2013. More information is available on Medicaid.gov.

The chart below outlines enrollment as of May 2015 in Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Part D (prescription drug plans):

State	Medicare Parts A and/or B	Medicare Advantage1	Total	Part D Total
Alabama	714,475	246,373	960,848	681,722
Alaska	82,292	665	82,957	33,114
Arizona	685,835	433,055	1,118,890	798,358
Arkansas	469,450	121,903	591,353	403,326
California	3,246,443	2,354,920	5,601,363	4,295,432
Colorado	486,962	290,466	777,428	548,360
Connecticut	465,754	161,781	627,535	468,874
Delaware	163,003	15,077	178,080	128,152
DC	76,076	11,735	87,811	49,810
Florida	2,367,608	1,601,277	3,968,885	2,920,247
Georgia	1,023,363	480,178	1,503,541	1,067,898
Hawaii	130,226	112,326	242,552	169,927
Idaho	186,352	91,711	278,063	185,761
Illinois	1,585,563	472,008	2,057,571	1,436,768
Indiana	867,439	274,477	1,141,916	823,097
Iowa	482,104	86,749	568,853	429,361
Kansas	416,622	67,545	484,167	336,790
Kentucky	631,252	226,064	857,316	630,711
Louisiana	547,162	239,874	787,036	569,946
Maine	234,647	69,616	304,263	213,308
Maryland	842,226	81,163	923,389	544,529
Massachusetts	948,839	261,433	1,210,272	817,417
Michigan	1,263,405	622,116	1,885,521	1,451,478
Minnesota	416,680	489,099	905,779	677,566
Mississippi	472,274	84,720	556,994	392,353
Missouri	804,245	324,780	1,129,025	827,818
Montana	162,736	36,852	199,588	126,085
Nebraska	271,448	39,218	310,666	217,073
Nevada	296,171	149,826	445,997	294,927
New Hampshire	244,219	20,067	264,286	163,822
New Jersey	1,252,414	233,355	1,485,769	1,060,513
New Mexico	251,323	117,883	369,206	255,414
New York	2,077,589	1,251,906	3,329,495	2,535,580
North Carolina	1,221,482	529,303	1,750,785	1,269,656
North Dakota	98,440	19,871	118,311	83,300
Ohio	1,241,692	898,626	2,140,318	1,634,697
Oklahoma	557,128	116,649	673,777	442,217
Oregon	414,968	330,468	745,436	538,975
Pennsylvania	1,501,476	1,018,209	2,519,685	1,878,311
Rhode Island	130,451	71,751	202,202	150,801
South Carolina	708,740	219,934	928,674	654,583
South Dakota	125,660	29,233	154,893	104,825
Tennessee	797,583	426,921	1,224,504	903,638
Texas	2,436,297	1,159,610	3,595,907	2,471,636
Utah	224,070	116,912	340,982	231,172
Vermont	120,557	10,024	130,581	94,501
Virginia	1,082,620	255,307	1,337,927	827,856
Washington	819,681	356,870	1,176,551	735,723
West Virginia	301,883	113,220	415,103	288,569
Wisconsin	645,149	397,405	1,042,554	722,372
Wyoming	90,820	3,678	94,498	58,379
American Samoa	4,174	238	4,412	576
Guam	14,764	63	14,827	3,080
Northern Mariana Islands	*	*	2,063	480
Puerto Rico	195,888	561,658	757,546	572,163
Virgin Islands	19,074	236	19,310	11,292
Pending State Designation	*	*	3,046	923
Foreign and Other Outlying Areas	422,200	4,014	426,214	11,034
Total	37,345,712	17,710,809	55,056,521	39,246,296

¹ The following organization types are included in the Medicare Advantage column: Local and Regional Coordinated Care Plans, Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) plans, Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans, Section 1876 Cost Contract plans, Section 1833 Health Care Prepayment (HCPP) plans, Chronic Care Plans, and Medicare-Medicaid Demonstration Plans.

* CMS is obligated by the federal Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. Section. 552a and the HIPAA Privacy Rule, 45 C.F.R Parts 160 and 164, to protect the privacy of individual beneficiaries and other persons. All direct identifiers have been removed from this data file. In addition, information is suppressed that is based upon fewer than eleven (11) beneficiaries in the population.

Companies Plan Holiday Parties

Summertime Means …Winter Fun? Washington, DC Companies Plan their Holiday Parties Now

TYSONS, VA (July 2015) –  As much of the Washington, DC area workforce heads out to enjoy their summer vacations, company planners have another task at hand – to organize winter holiday parties. "Now is the time for companies looking to host winter events to find the best deals, and secure prime dates for their gatherings," said Tim Bowes, Vice President of Sales for Crescent Hotels & Resorts, a management company of over 100 hotels (including 16 in the Washington, DC area).

"While we still have some preferred dates available, our phones actually started ringing for holiday parties a few months ago as our clients learned about our multimillion dollar renovation. This renovation included over 10,000 square feet of event space," said Michael Broadhurst, General Manager of The Westin Arlington Gateway. Many companies opt to offer lunch parties, so selecting a venue that is walking distance from their offices is important.  The Westin Arlington Gateway is steps from various offices and government agencies.

With the growth of companies in the suburbs, combined with the one year old Silver Line Metrorail, Northern Virginia hotels have seen an uptick in holiday party requests. "Reston is ever-growing and ever-changing, and our two hotels, The Westin Reston Heights and the Sheraton Reston, have become local favorites for social events of all kinds," said Tim Bailey Complex General Manager for both hotels.  "Part of the reason is that we have the ability to suit various holiday party needs. The Sheraton Reston can accommodate events up to 400 guests, and those looking for a more intimate environment can enjoy our private dining room in The Westin's award winning restaurant, Vinifera."

The Metrorail has also sparked additional interest for the Sheraton Tysons Hotel, located steps from one of the new stops. The Sheraton offers a 10,000 square foot ballroom, one of the largest in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The ability to accommodate social functions of over 1,200 guests combined with Metrorail proximity, makes this venue an option for larger functions that would normally consider downtown locations. "We are seeing more and more companies with offices throughout Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia show interest in our hotel," said hotel General Manager, Mike Chouri. "When it comes to large gala celebrations, companies are less interested in proximity to the corporate offices and focused instead on finding a venue that will give their attendees a memorable experience and work with them to put on an event that showcases their company image. Additionally, many companies prefer a Fairfax location because it tends to be close to where many of their employees live."

Not all those that plan holiday parties are professional meeting planners. Many companies rotate volunteers to head holiday committees to put together annual events. "We understand that not every planner of a holiday event does this for a living, so we take extra care to make the planning process simple for those not familiar with the process." said Bowes. "We even offer a website where event planners may check availability for any or all of our Washington, DC locations online in just a few clicks. Our clients, especially those planning smaller events, find this extremely helpful."

"Because we offer a boutique style hotel, we are the ideal location for small holiday events," said Ryan Cimei, Hyatt Place Washington DC/US Capitol General Manager. The hotel turned a year old last month and is the first Hyatt Place built in downtown Washington, DC. "While we are just entering our second year of operation, we have already received numerous inquiries for event space. With two function rooms, planners know that if they book with us, they will never get lost among other events. Additionally, with a downtown venue with metro access, our location meets the needs of our customers looking for the excitement offered by being in DC."
When asked, what the most overlooked aspect in holiday event planning is, Bowes responded: "Many times those new to planning holiday events simply wait too long to secure a venue for their event. It's easy to not think about the holidays while it's still summer, but sometimes, especially for larger events, waiting until even September can be too late to book a preferred date in December."

ABOUT STAY IN WASHINGTON DC

Stay in Washington DC includes Crescent Hotels & Resorts' hotels located in and around Washington, DC. These properties are internationally recognized brands including, Hilton, Hyatt, Sheraton, Westin, Marriott, IHG, Wingate by Wyndham, Radisson, Cambria hotels & suites and Best Western. Most hotels are in walking distance to a Metrorail or offer complimentary shuttle service that links guests to the city's world renowned Metrorail network. Most locations offer various dining, shopping and entertainment options just minutes away via walking, complimentary shuttle or Metrorail. Several locations offer award winning restaurants right inside the hotels. For more information, visit www.stayinwashingtondc.com, like on www.facebook.com/StayInWashDC, follow on www.twitter.com/stayinwashdc, follow on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube and connect on Google+.

ABOUT CRESCENT HOTELS & RESORTS
Crescent Hotels & Resorts is a nationally recognized, top-5 operator of hotels and resorts. Crescent currently operates over 100 hotels and resorts in 36 states in the US and 4 provinces in Canada. Crescent is one of the few elite management companies approved to operate upper-upscale and luxury hotels under the brand families of Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Hyatt and IHG. Crescent also operates a collection of legendary independent hotels and resorts. Crescent's clients are made up of hotel REITs, private equity firms and major developers. For more information, please visit www.chrco.com.

Stayinwashingtondc.com #stayinwashdc

Methadone Study

Novus Medical Detox Center Analyzes Methadone Study Findings and Implications for Opiate Abuse Treatment

In response to new research on inmates in methadone maintenance therapy versus phased withdrawal, Novus Medical Detox Center contends that drug-free substance abuse treatment offers a better solution for those attempting to overcome addiction.

(New Port Richey, FL) July  2015 – A new study published by researchers from Brown University and The Miriam Hospital examines outcomes for inmates who continued methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) during incarceration versus those subjected to a phased withdrawal, and found the latter group was more likely to relapse to opiate use (1) and more likely to require hospitalization or emergency treatment (2) upon release. While the study focused on incarcerated methadone users, Novus Medical Detox Center (http://www.novusdetox.com/) —a leading Florida-based drug treatment facility—sees broader implications for anyone seeking treatment for heroin or opioid addiction. But rather than debating the effectiveness of MMT versus forced methadone withdrawal, Novus proposes medically supervised, drug-free addiction and detox programs as a better alternative for individuals seeking to end the cycle of substance abuse.
As reported by Brown University, 97% of inmates who continued MMT while incarcerated went to a methadone clinic within one month of release, while only 71% of the phased withdrawal group did so; and among those who were fully withdrawn from methadone upon release, only 48% resumed MMT (1). Brown University further noted that 18% of the phased-withdrawal group and 8% of the MMT-continuation group admitted to returning to opioid use within a month of release (1). Other findings compared adverse events among the two groups: the MMT-continuation group had one death, one non-fatal overdose, one hospitalization and 11 emergency room visits, while the phased-withdrawal group had zero deaths, two non-fatal overdoses, four hospitalizations and 16 emergency room visits (2).

"Although this trial focused on methadone-using inmates, the findings are relevant to anyone struggling with heroin, opioid or methadone dependency," said Kent Runyon, Executive Director of Novus. "While the report's authors argue in favor of methadone maintenance treatment over forced withdrawal, we believe that a third option—drug-free, medically supervised detox—offers those struggling with substance abuse a greater chance for success. After all, both of the study groups experienced some degree of 'adverse events' and relapses, which may have been prevented with proper medical care and withdrawal support. And of the 52% of fully withdrawn patients who did not return for MMT, I'm sure some desired to be drug-free rather than resume heroin or methadone use."

Runyon maintains that the real problem with many substance abuse treatment programs is that people who are trying to overcome drug use are being transitioned to another drug—one with its own cycle of dependency and withdrawal symptoms. He notes that such programs often prove inadequate because they fail to perform a full medical exam of each patient and subsequently fail to identify and treat other health issues beyond the addiction itself. According to Runyon, the current over-reliance on drug maintenance programs could be replaced with more effective, holistic solutions.

"The best addiction and detox programs (http://www.novusdetox.com/detox-programs.php) combine proven medical protocols and cutting-edge detox technology, which create a solid foundation for successful rehab and recovery," he asserted.

The Florida drug detox facility attributes its success to a combination of factors, including customized treatment programs that address individual health needs, 24-hour access to nursing care and withdrawal specialists, and non-harmful medicine and supplements. In addition to providing heroin and opioid detox, Novus helps patients overcome methadone dependency—and even treats high-dose cases other facilities refuse.
For more information on Novus Medical Detox Center and its heroin, opioid and methadone treatment programs, visit www.novusdetox.com.

About Novus Medical Detox Center:
Novus Medical Detox Center is a Joint Commission Accredited inpatient medical detox facility that offers safe, effective alcohol and drug treatment programs in a home-like residential setting. Located on 3.25 tree-lined acres in New Port Richey, Florida, Novus is also licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families and is known for minimizing the discomfort of withdrawal from prescription medication, drugs or alcohol by creating a customized detox program for each patient. By incorporating medication, natural supplements and fluid replenishment, Novus tailors the detox process for each patient, putting the dignity and humanity back into drug detoxification. Patients have 24/7 medical supervision, including round-the-clock nursing care and access to a withdrawal specialist, and enjoy comfortable private or shared rooms with a telephone, cable television and high-speed Internet access. Novus' expansion is tied to their contribution to their industry and their local community, ranking number 48 on the Tampa Bay Business Journal's 2014 Fast 50 Awards list of the fastest-growing companies in Tampa Bay, and number 2,936 on the 2014 Inc. 500/5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America. For more information, visit www.novusdetox.com.

1. Brown University. "Inmates Cut Off Methadone Less Likely to Seek It After Release"; News From Brown; May 28, 2015. news.brown.edu/articles/2015/05/methadone
2. Rich, Josiah D.; et al. "Methadone Continuation Versus Forced Withdrawal on Incarceration in a Combined US Prison and Jail: A Randomised, Open-Label Trial"; The Lancet; May 28, 2015. thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2814%2962338-2/abstract

Summer Cooking / Recipes Protected by Non-toxic FlyPunch!

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Boomers eat cake

Boomers Eat Cake: Roll Up, for the Magical History Tour! New Book Showcases Quirky, Crazy & Berserk Pop Culture of Baby Boomers' World

Compiled by Robina and Lorenzo Wolfson, 'Boomers Eat Cake' throws readers into the sport, music and entertainment of the 1950s to the 1970s, and again for the unpredictable modern era. This book-bound blast-from-the-past showcases the quirky world baby boomers contended with, and the insanity they deal with today. One critic recently said, "save your movie money and get this book"!

Port Chester, NY – For the seventy-seven million baby boomers living on American soil, life has never been boring; a roaring conveyor belt of ever-changing pop culture, zany trends and a host of colorful characters that have kept the wheels of entertainment spinning. Coupled with baby boomers' need to rapidly adapt their ways in order to keep up with technology's boom – some could say life is insane!

Robina and Lorenzo Wolfson certainly think so, and are now showcasing the lives of them and their peers in a fascinating new book. 'Boomers Eat Cake' provides an upbeat look at past and modern life, as it has been grappled with by the world's single biggest demographic.

Synopsis:
Boomers Eat Cake is a mix of humor, nostalgia and reality. The book also takes a great look at the sports world in the earliest boomer decades (1950-1970's) It does the same for music, entertainment and current times (especially the quirky and berserk). It provides a laugh out loud ride about people and places we enjoyed and the total insanity that we deal with on a daily basis.

"We wanted to show just what baby boomers have lived through, and how the world of sports and entertainment have evolved as our wrinkles now set in," explains Robina Wolfson, who met Lorenzo at New Rochelle High School in New York. "As we all continue to live the boomer life and adjust to retirement, it's vital that we reflect on our past and acknowledge just how insane life has been!"

Continuing, "The book strikes a nerve dealing with High School memories, Rock n 'Roll, Woodstock and more while still including the crazy world of social media, the internet and reality TV. If you want a periscope into the past that also juggles the challenges of the present – here it is!"

Readers agree, leaving a slew of positive reviews. Wesley Eisenhandler comments, "I received an early release copy. I can't stop telling my friends how funny this book was. I couldn't put it down. I actually ready it twice and it was better the second time..."

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Experts Recommend Tumor Removal as First-line Treatment for Cushing's Syndrome

Endocrine Society publishes Clinical Practice Guideline on treatment of chronic excess cortisol

Washington, DC–The Endocrine Society today issued a Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) on strategies for treating Cushing's syndrome, a condition caused by overexposure to the hormone cortisol.

The CPG, entitled "Treatment of Cushing's Syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline," was published online and will appear in the August 2015 print issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism (JCEM), a publication of the Endocrine Society.

Cushing's syndrome occurs when a person has excess cortisol in the blood for an extended period, according to the Hormone Health Network. When it is present in normal amounts, cortisol is involved in the body's response to stress, maintains blood pressure and cardiovascular function, keeps the immune system in check, and converts fat, carbohydrates and proteins into energy. Chronis overexposure to the hormone can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, infections and blood clots in veins.

People who take cortisol-like medications such as prednisone to treat inflammatory conditions, including asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, can develop Cushing's syndrome. The high cortisol levels return to normal when they stop taking the medication. This is called exogenous Cushing's syndrome.

In other cases, tumors found on the adrenal or pituitary glands or elsewhere in the body cause the overproduction of cortisol and lead to the development of Cushing's syndrome. The Clinical Practice Guidelines focus on this form of the condition, known as endogenous Cushing's syndrome.

"People who have active Cushing's syndrome face a greater risk of death – anywhere from nearly twice as high to nearly five times higher – than the general population," said Lynnette K. Nieman, MD, of the National Institutes of Health's Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in Bethesda, MD, and chair of the task force that authored the guideline. "To reduce the risk of fatal cardiovascular disease, infections or blood clots, it is critical to identify the cause of the Cushing's syndrome and restore cortisol levels to the normal range."

In the CPG, the Endocrine Society recommends that the first-line treatment for endogenous Cushing's syndrome be the removal of the tumor unless surgery is not possible or unlikely to address the excess cortisol. Surgical removal of the tumor is optimal because it leaves intact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is integral to the body's central stress response.

Other recommendations from the CPG include:

• Tumors should be removed by experienced surgeons in the following situations:
• A tumor has formed on one or both of the two adrenal glands.
• A tumor that secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) – the hormone that signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol – has formed somewhere in the body other than the adrenal or pituitary gland.
• A tumor has formed on the pituitary gland itself.
• Patients who continue to have high levels of cortisol in the blood after surgery should undergo additional treatment.
• People who had an ACTH-producing tumor should be screened regularly for the rest of their lives for high cortisol levels to spot recurrences.
• If patients' cortisol levels are too low following surgery, they should receive glucocorticoid replacement medications and be educated about adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands produce too little cortisol. This condition often resolves in 1-2 years.
• Morning cortisol and/or ACTH stimulation tests, or insulin-induced hypoglycemia, can be used to test for the recovery of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in people who have low cortisol levels after surgery. Once the tests results return to normal, glucocorticoid replacement can be stopped.
• People who have undergone pituitary surgery should be re-evaluated for other pituitary hormone deficiencies during the post-operative period.
• Patients who have a pituitary tumor and have undergone surgery to remove both adrenal glands should be regularly evaluated for tumor progression using pituitary MRIs and tests for ACTH levels.
• Radiation therapy may be used to treat a pituitary tumor, especially if it is growing.  While awaiting the effect of radiation, which may take months to years, treatment with medication is advised.
• To assess the effect of radiation therapy, the patient's cortisol levels should be measured at 6- to 12-month intervals.
• Medications may be used to control cortisol levels as a second-line treatment after surgery for a pituitary gland tumor, as a primary treatment for ACTH-secreting tumors that have spread to other parts of the body or suspected ACTH-secreting tumors that cannot be detected on scans.  Medications also can be used as adjunctive treatment to reduce cortisol levels in people with adrenal cortical carcinoma, a rare condition where a cancerous growth develops in the adrenal gland.
• People with Cushing's syndrome should be treated for conditions associated with the disease, such as cardiovascular disease risk factors, osteoporosis and psychiatric symptoms.
• Patients should be tested for recurrence throughout their lives except in cases where the person had a benign adrenal tumor removed.
• Patients should undergo urgent treatment within 24 to 72 hours of detecting excess cortisol if life-threatening complications such as serious infection, pulmonary thromboembolism, cardiovascular complications and acute psychosis are present.
   

The Hormone Health Network offers resources on Cushing's syndrome at http://www.hormone.org/questions-and-answers/2012/cushing-syndrome.  

Other members of the Endocrine Society task force that developed this CPG include: Beverly M.K. Biller of Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA; James W. Findling of the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, WI; M. Hassan Murad of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN; John Newell-Price of the University of Sheffield in Sheffield, U.K.; Martin O. Savage of the William Harvey Research Institute at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry in London, U.K.; and Antoine Tabarin of CHU de Bordeaux and INSERM at the University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux France.

The Society established the CPG Program to provide endocrinologists and other clinicians with evidence-based recommendations in the diagnosis and treatment of endocrine-related conditions. Each CPG is created by a task force of topic-related experts in the field. Task forces rely on scientific reviews of the literature in the development of CPG recommendations. The Endocrine Society does not solicit or accept corporate support for its CPGs. All CPGs are supported entirely by Society funds.

The CPG was co-sponsored by the European Society of Endocrinology.
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Founded in 1916, the Endocrine Society is the world's oldest, largest and most active organization devoted to research on hormones and the clinical practice of endocrinology.  Today, the Endocrine Society's membership consists of over 18,000 scientists, physicians, educators, nurses and students in 122 countries. Society members represent all basic, applied and clinical interests in endocrinology. The Endocrine Society is based in Washington, DC. To learn more about the Society and the field of endocrinology, visit our site at www.endocrine.org. Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/EndoMedia.