Our Products

• Individual Health Insurance
• Student Health Insurance
• Family Health Insurance
  • Family Health Insurance
  • Self-Employed Ohio Health Insurance
• Health Savings Account Plans
• Self-Employed Ohio Health Insurance
• COBRA Health Insurance in Ohio
• Small Business/Group Health Insurance
• Seniors/Medicare Eligible
• Short Term Health Insurance
• Travel Health Insurance

Our Company

• About Health Insurance Chaser
• Contact Us
• Health Insurance Partners

Skipping Salt

Last year, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines made specific recommendations for people, especially African Americans, to cut back on their sodium/salt intake. Too much sodium in our diet can be detrimental to our health, causing a host of problems including high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, and more. Despite this, many people find it extremely hard to cut back on their salt intake for a variety of reasons.

Many foods being offered today have huge amounts of salt and sodium. With food being increasingly more processed, as well as the popularity of “fast food” and easy to use/cheap snacks, more and more consumers are purchasing items that are full of salt and sodium.

In the instance of some companies trying to lower the salt content of foods, it changes the taste, and that doesn’t always make consumers happy. When a low-salt product isn’t purchased, it’s likely to be taken off the market or changed to include more salt.

Also, many companies rely on heavy salt in their food items to preserve the shelf life of items and to improve the flavor as the product ages.

Kantha Shelke, a chemist who runs the food science consulting company Corvus Blue in Chicago, says, “There are three ingredients one can use when you’re a really lazy food product developer: salt, fat, and sugar.” Salt brings out flavor and can also mask the flavors of bitter and metallic ingredients, so it is used very often.

While sodium and salt are not exactly the same, they are often used interchangeable when people talk about food and salt content. Sodium is actually a component of table salt and accounts for about 40% of the salt we consume. The average person needs a minimum of about 1,500 mg of sodium a day. Most Americans consume three times that amount every single day.

To cut out salt in your diet, be extra conscious of food labels and don’t purchase products with a heavy sodium or salt content. Be aware of percentages and try not to go over your average salt specifications for a day. You can retrain yourself to not need salt by cutting it out completely for a while, and then adding it back in gradually.

This post was brought to you by Healthinsurancechaser.com. We specialize in several types of health insurance and can bring you the best plans in the state, for less. Our insurance quotes are free and so is our service, so you have nothing to lose. Why not get started today and sign up for your free Ohio Anthem quote online? We’ve helped many individuals and families find quality health insurance and can do the same for you!

Cantaloupe Related to Listeria Outbreak

A food processor based in Kansas has recalled hundreds of pounds of fresh cantaloupe from stores as of Friday, due to possible Listeria contamination. The contamination was linked to cantaloupes originally grown in Colorado, and blamed for an outbreak of the illness that has already killed eight people and sickened dozens more.

Carol’s Cuts, the processor of the tainted fruit, was recalling 594 pounds of cantaloupe packaged in 5-pound trays, which was being used as an ingredient in fruit medleys being distributed in Kansas, as well as Missouri and Nebraska. This information was taken from a recall notice posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

In addition to the eight deaths due to the illness, a total of 55 people spanning across 14 states have had become ill from Listeria-tainted cantaloupe. The Listeria was traced to melons grown at the Colorado-based Jensen Farms Inc, and was sold under the name Rocky Ford Cantaloupes.

The recall notice said, in part, “Consumers who may have the recalled Carol’s Cuts product in their possession should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or destroy it.”

According to a statement from the FDA last week, the tainted fruit was shipped to 17 states. Not all states that have received the shipments of cantaloupes have reported infections, however. It was also noted in the recall notice that some of the fruit had been sold to institutional customers, including restaurants for use in salad bars or in menus as a dessert item.

The type of strain found in the tainted cantaloupes is called Listeria monocytogenes, and thrives at extremely low temperatures, according to information provided by the CDC. It can be especially dangerous for elderly people, pregnant women or those with a weak immune system.

This post was brought to you by Healthinsurancechaser.com. If you need assistance searching for a health insurance plan, don’t hesitate to get help from the experts. We’ve helped many consumers in Ohio save money on their Ohio individual health insurance by comparison shopping, and can do the same for you!

Link Between Stress and Breast Cancer?

A new study shows that black and Hispanic women with breast cancer may suffer more stress than white women, and the extra stress could be linked to more tumors. Study authors did caution that the research is still in the preliminary stages and that the research was not able to provide insight into whether the women’s stress levels were already high before being diagnosed with breast cancer, or whether the increase was caused by the cancer itself.

Despite the uncertainty, the findings point to a possible explanation why breast cancer is generally worse in black and Hispanic patients. Lead author Garth H. Rauscher stated, “One possible reason for that, among others, could be differences in the role of stress in influencing the development of breast cancer.” Rauscher is an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Illinois at Chicago’s School of Public Health.

Researchers studied 989 breast cancer patients who had been recently diagnosed with the disease. Within the first two or three months from diagnosis, the women responded to surveys about their stress levels and were asked about other issues such as anxiety, fear and loneliness. The researchers also used medical test results to examine the aggressiveness of the women’s cancer and tumors.

11% of 397 white women surveyed had reached a level of stress that would be considered elevated. Stress levels were about twice as high for the two minority groups: 24% of the 181 Hispanic women and 22% of the 411 black women reported elevated stress levels. Other minority groups were not included in the study.

According to Rauscher, more research is needed to determine how stress might be linked to the aggressiveness of tumors. “If we’d interviewed these women one year or five years or 10 years prior to diagnosis, would these same women have reported greater levels of stress than their counterparts in the study?” he wondered.

This post was brought to you by Healthinsurancechaser.com. We specialize in several types of Anthem of Ohio health insurance and can bring you the best plans in the state, for less. Get your free health insurance quote today by using our online quote engine, allowing you to compare rates and plans immediately. Contact us at 877-775-4321 to get started today.

New Drug for Prostate Cancer

Germany’s Bayer and Norwegian biotech Algeta have released an experimental drug that may prolong the lives of patients suffering from advanced prostate cancer. Cancer experts are calling it “a major step forward” in the treatment of the disease. Preliminary studies have shown it to be highly successful.

 A late stage trial of Alpharadin, a new type of drug that delivers small but highly-charged doses of radiation to tumors in the bone, was halted early after researchers noticed patients on the new treatments living almost three months longer on average than those on the standard treatments and placebos.

“It would have been unethical not to offer the active treatment to those taking placebo,” said Chris Parker, who led the trial at Britain’s Royal Marsden Hospital. He presented the research to delegates at the European Multidisciplinary Cancer Congress (EMCC) in Stockholm, Sweden.

Alpharadin is based on the active ingredient radium 223 and was designed to treat patients suffering from advanced cancers that have spread to their bones.

According to parker, the drug will become a new standard treatment for those patients. Both Jean Charles Soria, a co-chair of the EMCC congress, and Michael Baumann, president of the European Cancer Organization, agreed, saying that Alpharadin was a “major new player” and likely to be “practice changing”.

Sales of Alpharadin are expected to surge to $662 million by the year 2015, according to consensus forecasts from Thomsom Reuters Pharma.

Alpharadin is part of a class of drugs called alpha-pharmaceuticals which work by sending tiny, targeted doses of damaging radiation to a secondary tumor, known as a metastasis in the bone. Side effects are generally minimal since it is so targeted. Compared with chemotherapy which affects all the tissues in the body, this treatment is much more targeted and safe.

This post was brought to you by Healthinsurancechaser.com. We can help you decide on an Anthem BCBS of Ohio plan that suits your needs; whether it’s an HMO, PPO or HAS. Our insurance quotes are free and so is our service, so you have nothing to lose. Why not get started today and sign up for your free quote online? Contact us at 877-775-4321 to get started today.

Primatene Mist Being Taken Off Shelves

The over-the-counter asthma inhaler known as Primatene Mist will soon be taken off shelves. As of next year, it will no longer be available. This is due to a phase-out of epinephrine inhalers containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

 The epinephrine inhalers are being taken off the market because they use CFCs as a propellant to move the medicine out of the inhaler so patients can breathe the medicine into their lungs.

Primatene Mist was originally approved by the FDA for the temporary relief of occasional symptoms of mild asthma. FDA urges those who use Primatene Mist to see a doctor to find out which asthma medicine they should switch to. Since Primatene Mist was the last over-the-counter medication, patients will be forced to get a prescription.

“There are many other safe and effective medications to treat the symptoms of asthma,” said Badrul Chowdhury, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Rheumatology Products. He added that you should find out if you actually truly have asthma. “If you have breathing problems but have not been diagnosed by a health care professional, it’s important to see one. Not all breathing problems are asthma, so you need to get an accurate diagnosis and the proper medicine.”

Many manufacturers have changed their inhalers to replace CFCs with a propellant called hydroflouroalkane, or HFA. There are currently no over-the-counter inhalers containing HFAs. Currently all inhalers containing HFA are by prescription only, and you must see a doctor to have one prescribed to you. The cost is also considerably higher than inhalers that contained CFCs.

With rising health costs and many asthma-sufferers not having insurance, it will undoubtedly be harder for these patients to get the treatment they need for their asthma.

This post was brought to you by Healthinsurancechaser.com.  For more information on Ohio health insurance and tips for saving money on your next health plan, be sure to check out our site or contact one of our friendly agents at 877-775-4321. We’ll help keep health insurance costs low by comparing quotes from the state’s top health plans.

High Cholesterol Is linked to the Health Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Base on the new study, researchers discovered that high levels of cholesterol can boost the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  This is due to the creation of more plaque which is the brain clogging bits.  However, the research does not directly prove that indeed Alzheimer’s disease is caused by high cholesterol of if lowering cholesterol levels can also lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  The researchers could not also find any link between tangles and high cholesterol.  Tangles are also another factor that can clog the brain of those patients who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Dr. Kensuke Sasaki, the author of the study and an assistant professor of neuropathology at Kyushu University in Japan, these findings can be added to the previous research which linked insulin resistance to Alzheimer’s disease.  Controlling cholesterol levels and insulin resistance can significantly contribute to the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, in the United States alone, there is an estimate of 5.4 million people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.  As of date, there is no known cure or any way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

The research is quite intriguing and credible at the same time, according to Dr. Marc L. Gordon who is Zucker Hillside Hospital’s chief of neurology.  This research can add to the present theory that high level of cholesterol specifically the bad cholesterol can raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in the later time, said Gordon.  However there is a certain twist which found out that obesity and cholesterol levels tend to drop on individuals who are having dementia.  Although, this can be something that can be attributed to the modification of the person’s eating habits, said Gordon.

The news source of this article is Kensuke Sasaki, M.D. the assistant professor of neuropathology in Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan. This health news summary is brought to you by InsuranceChaser.com, your health insurance advisors specializing in Ohio health insurance. We have a variety of quality options for you to choose from when shopping for a great insurance policy. We’ll work with you to compare quotes and apply – our service and insurance quotes are at no cost or obligation. For more information call (877) 775-4321.

Insulin Spray Is a Health Solution to Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

According to the recent study, there is a chance that people who are having mild memory problems or suffering from Alzheimer’s disease can improve their mental function by using a nasal insulin spray.  But according to the authors of this study, it still needs more research in order to prove that this therapy can really benefit the patients.

Alzheimer’s disease is a well known form of dementia which is commonly suffered by the elderly people.  This illness can cause difficulty in language, thought and even memory.  Insulin dysfunction is also one of its symptoms.  According to Dr. James E. Galvin, director of the Pearl S. Barlow Center for Memory Evaluation and Treatment and a professor of neurology and psychiatry, even though this study is only small, but the authors of this study have found some convincing evidence that indeed insulin treatment can improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Previous studies have suggested the linkage between Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and obesity.  This study further suggests that there is a link between impaired insulin and cognitive and brain decline, according to Galvin.  The four month research published in the Archives of Neurology, involve 104 people who have mild memory problems link to Alzheimer’s disease.  Out of these 104 participants, 38 patients are receiving 40 IUs of insulin everyday, 36 patients are receiving 20 IUs of insulin everyday and 30 of them took a placebo every day.  The researchers analyzed the effects of insulin of these patients based on their mind functioning, thought process and glucose metabolism and other factors.  After the study, the researchers found out that those who took 20 IUs everyday have gain improvement in their story recall which means that they could instantly remember the details after listening to the story.  But those who took the higher dose of insulin as well as those who are taking placebo does not show any improvement in the story recall.

The news source of this article is James E. Galvin, M.D., M.P.H., the clinical director of Pearl S. Barlow Center for Memory Evaluation and Treatment. This health news summary is provided by InsuranceChaser.com, providers of great health insurance plans from carriers such as Anthem BCBS of Ohio and more. When you’re looking for a quality insurance policy, or you need extra assistance, our advisors will work with you to secure a great plan. We can have you set up in just 3 easy steps. So call us now, our insurance quotes and our assistance is free of cost! (877) 775-4321

Lifetime Excess Weight Can Result To Health Risk of Diabetes

The fact that obesity can cause diabetes has been known for a long time.  But the amount of excess weight and the period of being obese can cause that risk even higher.  Researchers from the University of Michigan Health System warn people suffering from obesity about this, especially the children and teens that will spend more time of their lives being obese.

According to Dr. Joyce Lee, the lead author of the study and a pediatric endocrinologist at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, the research reveals that there is the same relationship between the risk of lung cancer to smoking and type 2 diabetes to obesity.  The increase of the risk of diabetes will depend so much on the period that the person remains obese and the amount of excess weight that the person bears.

The rates of diabetes in the United States have continued to rise.  Due to the obesity epidemic experienced by younger generations in the United States, children are obese even in their earlier life and might carry this extra weight for a long period of time.  According to Lee base on these findings, the rates of diabetes can even increase much higher than the rates previously predicted.

The authors of the study suggest that base on their findings there should be obesity prevention programs implemented that will mainly focus on young adults and teens.  The news source of this article is the University of Michigan Health System.  The study can also be read on the issue of the Archives of Pediatric Adolescent Medicine.  Diabetes is a serious illness which cannot be ignored.  People should be aware that obesity is the leading cause of diabetes and they must do something about it.  They should try to lose weigh if they do not want to get diabetes and spend lots of money for its treatment.

This health news update is brought to you by InsuranceChaser.com, helping residents of Ohio find quality health insurance plans for a variety of needs. For seniors dealing with Ohio Medicare plans, we can also work with you to determine eligibility and compare quotes on Medicare Supplement and more. Get a free quote today, or call an advisor for assistance at (877) 775-4321.

The New Health Drug for Boosting Good Cholesterol

A new treatment has been recently studied which might prevent the occurrence of atherosclerosis which is a condition that can cause an increase of plaque in the walls of the artery.  This condition can generally lead to heart attack.

The study that they conduct was published in the issue of The Lancet.  The researchers base their study on 130 patients who have atherosclerosis.  Each of these patients was randomly treated with two different drugs which are the dalcetrapib and an inactive placebo.  Dalcetrapib is an experimental heart drug treatment.  This treatment on the patients has continued for two years.  This is considered as a double blind study since neither the patients nor the researchers knew what heart drug treatment they are taking.

Commonly, statin drugs can be used as a treatment for lowering LDL or bad cholesterol in the effort of minimizing coronary artery disease.  Dalcetrapib is the treatment that can enhance HDL or good cholesterol so that the risk can be minimized.

In order to determine the efficiency of dalcetrapib, researchers make use of non-invasive imaging technology or MRI.  Researchers discovered that those patients who are taking dalcetrapib had an increase of 31% in their HDL or good cholesterol levels.  CT scans also reveals that there is a reduction of inflammation in the carotid artery of patients who are taking dalcetrapib.  The carotid artery is the organ which supplies oxygenated blood to the person’s neck and head.

According to Zahi A. Fayad, who is the lead study author and a professor of radiology and medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, MRI and CT scans are very helpful in assessing the efficiency and safety of the new treatment which is the dalcetrapib.

The news source of this article is Mount Sinai Hospital.  The study and research is conducted by Zahi A. Fayad.  People should get themselves aware on the new treatments being produced in order to prevent them from having serious illnesses.

This health news summary is sponsored by InsuranceChaser.com, your source for unbiased health insurance in Ohio. We specialize in several types of coverage, including health insurance for individuals in Ohio. In just 3 steps we can have you matched up with a quality plan. Contact us at (877) 775-4321 to speak with an advisor, or click on the link to request your free quote.

ADHD Is the Most Common Health Disorder of Children

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder that is common to children.  It is first diagnosed during childhood and sometimes it can lasts through adulthood.  Children diagnosed with ADHD cannot control their impulsive behaviors and does not pay attention at certain times.  Sometimes they act without thinking about the consequences.  They are generally overly active.  Normally, most children are having trouble in paying attention and behaving impulsively at one time or another.  But children who are having ADHD do not outgrow these behaviors.  These symptoms simply go on and on and sometimes these children are having a hard time at school or at home and sometimes even with friends.

According to the recent reports, the rates of children who are having ADHD have continued to grow.  In 2007, there are approximately 5.4 million children aged 4-17 who have been diagnosed with ADHD.  It shows 22% increase during the last four years.  The increase of the rates can be attributed to the increase of awareness and knowledge of the people about the condition.  Behavioral screenings are conducted to children who have ADHD.

The good news is even though ADHD cannot be treated but it can be managed successfully.  Sometimes the best cure for ADHD is a series of treatments which comprises behavioral therapy, medication, school support and most of all parents training.  Parents as well as doctors must work closely to all the persons involved in the treatment of your child.  These include the therapists, teachers, coaches and other members of the family.  Parents must take advantage of all the available resources in order to help and guide their children towards success.

The news source of this article is Centers for Disease and Control Prevention.  Children with ADHD need the proper care and patience.  They should be treated with special care because they are different from other children.

This health news update comes from InsuranceChaser.com. We work with some of the top health insurance companies in Ohio, such as Anthem BCBS and many more, to guarantee you the most comprehensive and competitive rates on health insurance plans. For unbiased advice and insurance quotes at no cost to you, do not hesitate to contact us at (877) 775-4321. We look forward to assisting you.

877-775-4321