Coping With Crohn’s Disease: 100 Helpful Resources and Communities
Nursing Resources, Wellness No Comments »Crohn’s disease, an autoimmune disease that affects the bowel causing inflammation, pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms, affects hundreds of thousands of people in North America alone. Whether you are newly diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or have been living with it for years, finding new information, support, and a sense of community is always important. With no known cure and varying approaches to treatment, gathering and sharing knowledge is an excellent way to help yourself and others deal with this disease. Below, you will find articles, support groups, education, foundations and associations, information on diet, clinical trials, and blogs from other people living with a diagnosis of Crohn’s.
The Basics
Learn the basics from descriptions of Crohn’s to symptoms to medical treatment options with these resources.
- Mayo Clinic Crohn’s disease. Learn the basics about Crohn’s as well as symptoms, treatment options, and alternative therapies.
- MedicineNet.com Crohn’s Disease. Another good resource for learning the basics, this site also offers professional advice on specific medications and surgery.
- Crohn’s Disease. From the National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse, get information on Crohn’s as well as links to clinical trials and additional resources.
- Crohn’s Online. Supported by Abbott Laboratories, this site offers information on Crohn’s and a decidedly medically-based approach to treatment.
- Crohn’s disease - Everybody. This health site from New Zealand offers a good overview on what Crohn’s disease is all about.
Associations and Foundations
These associations and foundations from around the world all offer help, information, and medical advice for those living with Crohn’s. No matter where you live, you can share information and find support.
- Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Not only can you get news and information about Crohn’s here, you can also find clinical trials, physicians, and more.
- Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of Canada. Select the French or English version of this website to get information, become a volunteer, or find events in your area.
- American Gastroenterological Association. Get information on the treatment of Crohn’s with articles, podcasts, videos, and more.
- United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc.. This national network serves to unite support groups for patients and caregivers of those dealing with "bowel and urinary diversions."
- Australian Crohn’s & Colitis Association. Find information about research, clinical trials, get newsletters, and more at this resource.
- Crohn’s & Colitis Australia. Read about Crohn’s, get support, and learn about current research with this Australian organization.
- European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations. Get information about research studies, find youth groups, and connect face-to-face at this European connection.
- International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. This non-profit organization works for education and research in the field of gastrointestinal disorders.
- International Ostomy Association. Committed to improving quality of life for ostomates, this foundation offers forums, resources, and more.
- National Association for Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. This organization in the UK works to provide support and education for those dealing with IBD.
Resource Centers
Offering everything from articles and newsletters to forums and message boards to book reviews and news stories, these sites serve as resource centers to provide plenty of information and support.
- Living with Crohn’s Disease. Find out about Crohn’s, pediatric Crohn’s, subscribe to the newsletter, and learn about the latest research here.
- Crohn’s Disease Resource Center. From HealingWell.com, this site offers articles, books, forums, and news stories about Crohn’s.
- Crohn’s Disease Treatment, Symptoms & Information. This site provides information about Crohn’s, treatment options, forums to connect with others, a newsletter, and much more.
- ButYouDon’tLookSick.com. Anyone suffering from chronic illness, pain, or invisible disabilities can benefit from the articles, book and product reviews, and message board at this site.
- Shaz’s Ostomy Pages. Learn about the various forms of ostomies, read other people’s stories, and connect with other "ostomates" at this site.
- Crohn’s/Colitis Home Page. Having been around for 13 years, this site aims to be a "one-stop" site for information and support.
- Crohn’s Disease Info Center. Find information on Crohn’s as well as information on a current clinical trial that includes research, trial information, a physician information kit, and more. You can also join on the message board, get newsletters, and find links to other resources.
- David’s Crohn’s & Colitis Webpage. check out all the useful information available here, then participate in message boards and support groups, or just check out the "Best and Worst times to have to go" section.
- Teens With Crohn’s Disease Website. Teens can read about the experience of other teens living with Crohn’s, participate in message boards and chat rooms, get recipes, and more.
- Annee’s Crohn’s Disease Page. Annee shares her experience of living with Crohn’s and also offers tons of information and opportunities for support here.
Articles
From video interviews with average people living with Crohn’s to travel to college to humor, these articles offer information and more to those touched by Crohn’s.
- New York Times Health Guide Crohn’s Disease. Learn about Crohn’s disease, find out what types of tests are available, get treatment options, and more in this helpful article.
- Crohn’s Disease. This very detailed article describes the disease, genetic connections, diet, stress, types of Crohn’s diseases, and much more.
- sophia.and.org. This website presents its information in a rather different format. The woman here had an ileostomy ten years ago and has several editorial pieces that describe her life experiences. Click through the website to discover them all.
- About.com Crohn’s Disease. Get plenty of great information from the articles here that cover everything from surgery to book reviews to traveling with Crohn’s.
- New York Times Well. This article from a blog at the New York Times offers video of seven people living with Crohn’s.
- Surviving College with IBD. This multi-part About.com article offers sound advice for teens living with Crohn’s going off to college.
- Confessions of a Chicken Man. Written by a man living with Crohn’s, this article describes food choices made while traveling and the empowerment in his choices.
- The Lighter Side. If you find you need a little humor, then check out this site that shows advertising that holds special humor for those living with Crohn’s.
Communities
Connect with other people living with Crohn’s by participating in these great online communities.
- PatientsLikeMe. This community brings together people living with illness. If you don’t see a community of people dealing with your exact disorder, send a request and they will add it.
- CarePages. Create a care page and help friends and family stay connected to your health journey as well as meet new friends undergoing the same health concerns.
- Cafe Chronique. Become a member here and have access to forums, chats, groups and more. Create your own page to help connect with others living with chronic illness.
- Crohnsforum.com. Complete a free registration to participate in the forums here that discuss many aspects of living with Crohn’s.
- IBD Sucks!. Specifically for those with Crohn’s and other IBDs, register for free to participate in the forum here.
- iVillage Crohn’s Disease & Colitis. Join in the discussions going on at this message board for women dealing with Crohn’s or colitis.
- Yahoo! Groups: Crohn’s and Colitis. These Yahoo! groups offer support and connection for everyone. Browse through the listing and join as many as you like.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBD) Forum. This forum welcomes anyone living with IBS, Crohn’s, or colitis to participate in the discussions and find support.
- Crohns-Sanity.org. Not only can you take part in online support through the forum, but there is also a section for memorials, links to other resources, and some information on theories.
- Crohn’s Disease Support Group. A part of MD Junction, this group offers forums, diaries, articles and more to help you find support and empowerment.
- IBS Self Help and Support Group Forums. These forums provide several categories such as teens, women, meetups, abdominal pain, gas, and more.
- Crohn’s Zone. This community offers forums, chats, articles, and more for those looking for support and connections.
- WeAreCrohn’s.org. A patient-led support network, this group offers connections through online discussions, articles, communities, and photo sharing.
Finding Support
Find online support in these groups and blogs that are dedicated to educating and empowering those living with Crohn’s.
- Reach Out For Youth with Ileitis& Colitis. Run by parents of children with Crohn’s, this group offers support, research, and much more to help your family deal with this disorder.
- In Sickness and In Health: A Place for Couples Dealing with Illness. Written by an ex-psychotherapist and woman dealing with chronic illness, the posts on this blog are meant to help couples who are dealing with a chronic illness in their lives.
- Invisible Illness. This site has articles, offers support and more for those dealing with an "invisible" illness.
- Every Patient’s Advocate. Trisha Torrey works as a patient advocate after being mistakenly diagnosed with a terminal illness. Read her blog for tips, news, and more to empower every patient to be their own advocate.
- GlutenFreeTravelSite.com. Visit this site to take the worry out of planning a trip and eating gluten-free.
- Crohn’s and Colitis Support Group Web Site. Get information about Crohn’s at this site from New Zealand and find links to support groups too.
- The J-Pouch Group. This website is dedicated to educating and providing support to those who plan to have the surgery or are living with a J-pouch.
- IBS Tales: Personal Stories of IBS. Read about the experiences of others dealing with IBS at this site where stories are categorized by happy, sad, and embarrassing. You can also find articles, details of specific therapies, and more.
Clinical Trials
Many people seek clinical trials in search of new, innovative treatments and to help further research. If you are interested in clinical trials for your Crohn’s disease, then check out these resources.
- ClinicalTrials.gov. Use this resource to find both federally funded and privately funded clinical trials around the world.
- CenterWatch. Patients can get information about clinical trials, health associations, and even receive trial notifications with this service.
- Clinical Trials Search.org. Search for clinical trials in the US or internationally by condition, location, or sponsor at this site.
- Clinical Connection. Not only can you find clinical trials here, but you can also receive notifications, participate in message boards, and get an education about clinical trials.
- The Center for Information & Study on Clinical Research Participation. Before starting a clinical trial, visit this site to become an informed participant.
- International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. This portal from the World Health Organization provides access to information on clinical trials being conducted around the world.
- CanadaTrials. Find current clinical trials in Canada at this site.
Specific Carbohydrate Diet
This diet has a huge following among those with Crohn’s. These resources offer articles, recipes, places to buy equipment, and more.
- SCD Recipe. If you are following the SCD, then this resource is a great place to get recipes and even read the blog for the latest news and information about Crohn’s.
- Breaking the Vicious Cycle. Read about the SCD, find information and news, locate support groups of people following this diet, and more.
- Lucy’s Kitchen Shop. This site sells items used by those following the SCD, but it also includes information about this diet.
- SCDiet.com. Learn about the history of this diet, read the first chapter of Breaking the Vicious Cycle, and find out about more books, DVDs, and CDs.
- SCD Bakery. Check out baked goods that adhere to the SCD diet at this site.
- Grain-Free Gourmet. While the goal of this site is to promote this cookbook, you can also find sample recipes, information about the SCD, and even read it all in French, if you like.
- SCDiet.net. A huge resource for SCD, this site offers recipes, links to other resources, a mailing list, and much more.
- SCD Web Library. This invaluable resource includes support, recipes, success stories, FAQs, links to other resources, and more.
- SCDUK. Out of the UK, this not-for-profit site offers support, information, and recipes for those following the SCD in order to ease symptoms of Crohn’s as well as Celiacs, colitis, and other digestive disorders.
- Intestinal Health Through Diet. This site provides information on the SCD, tips for starting and maintaining the diet, recipes, resources, and even a local support group if you live in or near Austin, TX.
- The Specific Carbohydrate Diet - communicatrix. The communicatrix offers suggestions, advice, resources, and more as a second-generation Crohn’s sufferer following the SCD.
Crohn’s Blogs
Blogs are an excellent way for those with Crohn’s to read about how others live with the disease as well as find a community of support.
- Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness. Written by a lawyer and Crohn’s disease sufferer, this blogger provides information about chronic illness and patient advocacy as well as writing about her own struggles with chronic illness.
- I’d Like to Buy a Bowel. This young woman not only blogs about her Crohn’s, but actively works to raise awareness and funds for further research.
- The Bright Side of Crohn’s. Posts here are written by a young woman newly diagnosed with Crohn’s and include tons of information from learning the facts about Crohn’s to a personal, heartfelt letter to Crohn’s.
- crohn’s disease - living with crohn’s disease. Find natural solutions, medical research and news, and personal experience from this man who has been living with a Crohn’s diagnosis since his early 20s.
- I hate my guts!. Jenni chronicles her experiences with Crohn’s in this very real description of living with the illness.
- I live, therefore; I dump. This young woman shares her Crohn’s experiences, provides recipe ideas, and offers a glimpse of what it’s like to live with Crohn’s.
- The Crohnsicle. Read about updates in the new of Crohn’s treatment, share the experiences of this man’s experience with Crohn’s, or laugh over his list of euphemisms for pooping.
- Kelly’s Crohn’s Blog. Kelly posts monthly check-ins, updates with news about Crohn’s, and offers her experience and emotional response to the disease.
- Sugar and Spice and my gluten-free life. This young woman blogs about her life with Crohn’s and her gluten-free diet. The photos of the food are mouth-watering.
- Crohn’s News. From Medical News Today, get the latest news reports that pertain to Crohn’s disease at this blog.
Chronic Illness Blogs
Not specifically focusing on Crohn’s, these blogs do offer a look at living with chronic illness and provide validation and empowerment to others.
- ChronicBabe.com. Women who are dealing with chronic illness will find lots of advice and support at this award-winning blog.
- ChronicTown. Dealing with a rare chronic illness while parenting and writing, this blogger shares her ups and downs of life.
- ChronicallyMe. As this blogger deals with her chronic illness, she blogs about the challenges and conquests of chronic illness.
- Through Myself and Back Again. This woman shares her experiences with a genetic disorder and being an advocate for those with disabilities.
- chronic holiday. Part of living with chronic illness or disability is hearing crazy things come out of people’s mouths. This blog is dedicated to some of the things people have said to this blogger in the course of the illness.
- Professional Patient. This blog offers suggestions for managing chronic illness and disability and managing the world of insurance.
- sick girl speaks!. This girl hasn’t let chronic illness slow her down. As a writer and speaker, her blog is an extension of her work as an advocate for patients and and those who live with chronic illness.
- Farty Girl. Diagnosed with IBS and lactose intolerance, this woman is now possibly gaining a celiac diagnosis. She blogs about her experiences with going gluten-free and dealing with digestive disorders.
Food and Recipe Blogs
Living with Crohn’s often means changing the way you eat. These blogs have recipes, share diets, and often infuse a warm sense of belonging.
- Eating SCD - the Specific Carbohydrate Diet. This blogger credits the SCD for his Crohn’s remission and blogs about the diet, news about Crohn’s, and more.
- bethsblog. This woman has a daughter with Crohn’s and they both followed the SCD for one year. Find interesting posts about this diet as well as others, food, art, and more.
- The Dietary Adventures of Jilluck. Suffering from Crohn’s, this woman discovered the SCD and relief. Get plenty of great food ideas from her blog.
- Cooking for Celiacs, Colitis, Crohn’s and IBS. Get plenty of recipes and information about health and nutrition as it applies to these digestive disorders from this popular blog.
- No More Crohn’s. Erin offers advice on cooking and storing food for the SCD on her blog. Also check out her website for more information, ideas, and support.
- Straight into Bed Cakefree and Dried. This gluten-free blogger follows the SCD and posts lots of recipes along with information about gluten-free eating.
- Thyme on My Hands. This blogger, diagnosed with Crohn’s, offers recipes (most SCD-compliant) as well as links to other resources.
- Kat’s Food Blog. Get suggestions for SCD meals and preparation, recipes, and more from this blogger.
- Gluten-Free Girl. This popular blog is written by a woman with Celiac and includes both delicious recipes and gorgeous photos of her creations.
- A Gluten Free Guide. Get gluten-free recipes as well as mini gluten-free restaurant reviews from restaurants in major cities.
100 Awesome Instructional Videos for Your Health and Wellness
Nursing Resources, Wellness No Comments »Almost everyone has heard about ways they can improve their health and wellness, but sometimes everything just comes together more clearly when you see it in action. The following videos offer suggestions, demonstrations, and medical education to help you learn ways to keep yourself healthy or recover from illness. Covering topics like prevention of disease, disorders, good nutrition, healthy pregnancy and birth experience, and good mental health, these instructional videos will guide you to a longer, stronger life.
General Health Videos
These videos will help you find your natural energy, eliminate disease, learn the importance of standing up during the day, and more.
- Health and Society. This group of videos is based on lectures from Stanford physicians touching on research and treatment of a variety of disorders affecting society from cholesterol to parenting to sleep disorders.
- Health Matters. This video series was originally aired on PBS and touches on a variety of health treatment issues from better hearing to understanding your child’s health check-up.
- Mind & Body. Many people find they are able to change their physical health through visualization, self-hypnosis, meditation, massage, and more techniques that can affect the way a patient approaches her health and wellness.
- Unleashing Your Natural Energy. You don’t have to feel exhausted all day with these great tips to find your energy including connecting with others, mentally centering yourself, better nutrition, and more.
- Centenarian Secrets. Learn the secrets of those who live to see 100.
- Eliminating Disease. Find out what researchers are doing to help eliminate disease and help extend life.
- Stand up for your health. Discover the importance of getting out of your chair and moving around.
- Five Health Rules to Break. Learn which rules you can break and when to break them.
- 7 signs to a long life. Set up like a quiz show, this video describes Prevention magazine’s signs that you may live a longer life.
Preventing and Surviving Diseases and Disorders
From cancer to carpal tunnel syndrome, learn what you can do to prevent or recover from the many diseases and disorders profiled below.
- Cancer Supportive Care. These seven videos touch on everything from exercise during cancer treatment to managing fatigue to body image after breast cancer.
- What to Expect. Find out about breast cancer, mammograms, and what to expect, both mentally and physically, when it comes to breast cancer diagnoses.
- War on Cancer. This video chronicles the history of treating cancer and how we can go forward in the war on cancer.
- Preventing Alzheimer’s. Learn one thing you can do to prevent Alzheimer’s with this video.
- Detection and Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. Find out how you can go about getting an accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s–even in those younger than 65.
- Diabetes and the Eyes. Learn about the connection between diabetes and eye heath and how to maintain eye health if you have diabetes.
- What is Blood Pressure. Find out exactly what blood pressure is and why it’s important to your health.
- An Overview of Heart Disease. This video explains heart disease, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Arthritis. Get an overview of hip arthritis as well as different types of treatment.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Find out what carpal tunnel syndrome is, how it affects your hand, and what you can do to treat this disorder.
- Colonoscopy. Learn the basics about a colonoscopy, why you may need one, and what you can expect during the procedure.
- High Cholesterol. Find out what high cholesterol means for you and how to treat or prevent it.
- Common Digestive System Conditions, Tests, and Procedures. Learn about how food is digested and the system that makes this happen, problems that can occur, and how to correct any issues.
- Is Restless Legs Syndrome Affecting Your Sleep?. Find out if your sleep problems may be a result of Restless Legs Syndrome.
- Help for Crohn’s Sufferers. Learn about this new medication that can help relieve the symptoms of Crohn’s Disease.
- Detecting Acid Reflux. Discover if your symptoms are really due to acid reflux with this new diagnostic tool that is easier and more comfortable.
- Seizure-alert dogs give new freedom to epilepsy sufferers. Service dogs can provide a new life for those living with epilepsy.
Allergy and Asthma
Whether you or a loved one suffers from allergies, asthma, or both, you can find medical advice and relief from these videos.
- New Allergy Drops. This video describes new allergy drops that may replace allergy shots for allergy sufferers.
- Knocking Out Allergic Asthma. Learn how you can find relief if you suffer from allergic asthma.
- New Ideas for Chronic Sinusitis. Find out about the causes of sinus problems and some new treatments to help alleviate your suffering.
- Environmental Allergens and Immune System. Discover the link between exposure to environmental allergens and how is can boost your immune system.
- Early Asthma Detection. Doctors have a new device to help diagnosis asthma in young children.
- Heating Up Asthma. Learn how researchers are working on a no-drug treatment for asthma.
- Acupuncture for Allergies. Find out how acupuncture can help relieve your allergy suffering with this video.
- Pets and Allergies. While many people with allergies shudder at the thought of a cat or dog in the house, learn how having pets can actually help prevent allergies.
- Allergy tests. Discover what happens during an allergy test so you can be informed before your test.
- Food Allergy or Food Intolerance?. Learn the difference between lactose intolerance and a dairy allergy.
- The Food Allergy Project. Parents with no food allergies who have children with life-threatening food allergies explore why this phenomenon is happening.
Nutrition
Eating right is something everyone should do, but it’s not always so easy. From reconfiguring the diet on the go to avoiding the freshman 15 to better holiday eating, these videos will help you learn how to eat better.
- Caffeine OD. Learn about the use of caffeine and how many people are getting too much caffeine as well as why too much caffeine is not healthy.
- Calorie Labeling. A new potential law will require restaurants with more than 15 locations to list the calories in their foods. Find out the health and business implications of this law.
- Soda Free Summer. This video tells about how these San Francisco children forego soda for the summer–and why.
- Men and Beer Guts. Find out why men’s spare tire may put them at risk for many other health problems and how to determine if you need to lose the belly.
- Eat Slowly. Slow down and enjoy your food and not only will you appreciate your meal, but you will be less likely to gain extra weight.
- Menu Makeover. Professionals help busy mothers learn how to make healthier choices when eating on the go.
- Snacking Study. Many gravitate to an unhealthy snack even when they are concerned with eating better.
- Freshman 15. The idea that students gain 15 pounds when they begin college doesn’t have to be a reality. Learn how to prevent that weight gain with this video.
- Healthy Holidays. Eating too much during the holidays is not a new phenomena. Learn how you can better manage your eating during the holidays.
- Recipes with Pomegranate Punch. Learn how to easily use this super-nutritious fruit in your diet to get its health benefits.
- Foods to Avoid with Drugs. Some foods can limit the effects of your medications. Find out what foods to avoid if you are taking specific medications.
- Importance of Good Nutrition. Find out why you should care about what you eat with this video.
- Nutrition and Osteoporosis. Learn the risks for osteoporosis and what you can eat to make your bones healthier and stronger.
Fitness
From senior yoga to exercises helping Parkinson’s patients, the following fitness videos will get you on your way to better health.
- Seniors Yoga. Find out about the trend of seniors who are learning to embrace the amazing benefits of yoga.
- Yoga. Learn about a new type of yoga utilizing anti-gravity techniques to learn a great exercise and fitness tool that does not stress the back.
- Female Muscles. After a break, women require more time to regain muscle strength than do men.
- Zumba Workout. Learn about this new fitness trend that combines music, movement, and having fun to get great results.
- Home Gyms. Find out how to create a great home gym for less than $300.
- Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease. Exercise can help alleviate Parkinson’s symptoms–sometimes better than medications can.
- Abdominal Crunch with Fitness Ball. Learn about the importance of core strengthening exercises and how to do an abdominal crunch with your fitness ball.
- Forearm stretches and wrist stretches for the office. Get some great stretches you can perform during your next coffee break.
- How to choose resistance tubing. This fitness tool is gaining lots of popularity. Find out how to choose the right one for you.
- Self Shape Fitness Video Series. Download several stretching videos here to help get yourself into shape.
- Squat. Learn about the benefits of doing squats and how to do it properly.
Pregnancy and Birth
Pregnancy and birth is an exciting time for most women, but can be filled with the unknown too. Learn from these videos to ensure a beautiful experience for you.
- What is Amniocentesis?. Learn what an amniocentesis is, how it is performed, and reasons for doing the procedure.
- Forty Fertility. Men have become the subject of fertility problems in the study documented on this video.
- Acupuncture Fertility. Find out how acupuncture can increase fertility in women.
- Yeast Infections and Pregnancy: A Cause for Concern. Before you begin treating a yeast infection while pregnant, watch this video about why you should talk with your care provider first.
- Pregnancy Exercise. Find out why exercise during pregnancy and just after giving birth is good both physically and mentally.
- Depression’s Effect on Pregnant Women. Depression can affect pregnant women. Learn why you should combat depression to prevent preterm delivery.
- Childbirth. Learn about the process of childbirth, what to expect, and complications that may arise.
- Cesarean Section. This instructional video describes the procedure and how it affects you and your baby.
- Vaginal Birth After C-Section (VBAC). Find out about the VBAC procedure and the benefits, differences, and risks involved in this type of birth.
- Fetal Ultrasound. See an example of a fetal ultrasound along with the description so you might know what to expect during your ultrasound.
- The Epidural Block. Learn about this common pain relief procedure used during childbirth.
Childhood Health
From ADHD to autism to teen suicide, these videos will help you detect, prevent, and learn about many health concerns for children.
- Think Your Child May Have ADHD? Learn More. Find out what to look for in your child and how to get the help you need.
- ADHD in the Family. Learn about the possible genetic connection and how families share ADHD traits.
- Children and Research. While this video is specifically directed at parents who are considering allowing their child to be a part of a medical research program, it provides an excellent overview of child research and why it is important.
- Dry Drowning. This phenomena has just recently been getting the attention it deserves. Find out how a child can drown after he has left the pool.
- What is Autism?. Watch these videos from Autism Speaks to learn all about autism.
- Autism Show. Find out about this show that reaches out to autistic children and how it works to help those on the autism spectrum.
- ‘Autism’s False Profits’. Watch this video that profiles a recent book that warns parents away from treatments for autism that may lead parents away from the truly helpful treatments.
- Pediatric Cancer. This video describes a study that looks at the occurrence of pediatric cancer by geographic location in the US.
- Teen Suicide: Too Young to Die. Learn about the recent increase in teen suicide, warning signs, and prevention in this webcast every parent should watch.
- Teen Sleep. There is a connection between lack of sleep and high blood pressure in teens. Find out about more in this video.
- Stressed Students. Therapy in schools? Learn how some schools are using therapy to relax students during their busy school days.
- Spotting Allergies in Kids. Find out if your child’s health problems may be a result of allergies with this video.
- Identifying Learning Problems. Learn about a new diagnostic tool to help discover processing problems in children that contribute to learning problems.
- Grandparents putting children’s lives at risk. Many well-intentioned grandparents rely on out-of-date parenting techniques than may put their grandchildren at risk.
- Detecting Hearing Loss in Infants. Learn the importance of early hearing loss detection and why having screen procedures available is necessary.
Mental Health
The mind/body connection is a strong one. These videos will help you learn ways to keep yourself mentally fit as well as physically healthy.
- Causes of Depression. Learn about the potential causes of depression and how factors contribute to depression.
- The Brain and Its Chemicals. Get the basics on how the brain works with this instructional video.
- Women and Stress. Women have high stress levels that lead to unhealthy practices. Find ways to combat those stress-related behaviors.
- Adult Orphans: Coping with the Loss of a Parent. This webcast discusses the reality of losing a parent when you an adult.
- Survivor Stress. Cancer survivors may be at risk for more depression and anxiety.
- Psychosis: Early Warning Signs. Learn how to spot the signs that your friends or loved-ones may be developing a psychosis.
- Pediatric Anxiety. Find out how you recognize anxiety in your child and what to do in this world where anxiety seems to be increasing for so many.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder–A Serious Disease. Agonizing over how you look may be more than just a vanity issue. Learn about this serious disorder than can significantly impact your life.
- Balancing Bipolar Disorder. Learn about bipolar disorder as well as therapies that can help patients live a more balanced life.
- The Impact of a Supportive Family. The impact of a supportive family can bring amazing results to women suffering from mental health issues and their children as well.
- Nurture Your Soul–Create a Happy, Healthy Life. Use this ocean wave meditation video to help find your happy place during a stressful day.
- Art therapy for stress management. Get these suggestions from the Mayo Clinic on how to reduce stress through specific art activities that do not require expensive equipment.
- Need to relax? Take a break to meditate. Use these simple instructions to find your inner calm anywhere.
It is often said that children are one of the greatest natural resources and parents and loved-ones imagine the future through the next generation. Whether the job becomes finding ways to keep children healthy or learning how to treat, cure, or offer respite to those who face health challenges, parents and healthcare professionals are in the position of making sure children get what they need. The following blogs share the knowledge and experience from those striving for a better world for children’s health and well-being.
Health and Wellness
Both parents and medical professionals alike work for a common goal of keeping children healthy. These blogs offer advice from professionals and parents alike on how to do just that.
- Pediatric Health Associates. From safe pets to the importance of exercise, this blog focuses on keeping children healthy.
- Octopus Mom. Written by a NICU nurse and mom of three children, this blog focuses on everything from prenatal ultrasound safety to childhood obesity to measles outbreaks.
- Parenting Solved. Read about child health topics at this blog written by a this doctor who specializes in nutrition and gastrointestinal issues.
- Dr. Ben’s Blog. This blog offers pediatric health topics such as vitamin D exposure during infancy to how ADHD affects executive function.
- Pediatrics Now. Dr. Gwenn discusses children’s health and wellness issues such as obtainable exercise and fitness guidelines, the health benefits of hugs, and talking to teens about sexuality.
- About.com Pediatrics Blog. This blog covers everything from keeping important phone numbers nearby to salmonella to flu shots.
- Dr. Shu Says. This mother and pediatrician blogs about keeping kids and families healthy with posts ranging from exercise to healthy lunches to chemicals in plastics.
- Healthy Children. Follow these posts by Dr. Parker as he offers tips to keep children healthy and happy.
- Dr. Stacy: The Portable Pediatrician. Dr. Stacy posts about everything from mild head injuries to preventing SIDS to staying well in the fall on her blog.
- Dr. Tapas’ Pediatric Blog. Written specifically for parents, Dr. Tapas covers topics such as back packs and back pain, bee sting treatment, and newborn hearing screenings.
- PediaScribe. Written by a pediatrician and his wife, this blog is an extension of the PediaCast podcasts and discusses family and life.
- Liddle Kidz Infant and Pediatric Massage Blog. This blog discusses health benefits of massage for infants and children and also touches on other pediatric health and wellness topics.
- Children’s Health Blog. With posts from various contributors, the informative articles include depression in boys, childhood obesity, hand washing, and more.
- Dr. Nabong’s Pediatric Blog. Read about insect stings, strep throat, MRSA, and more at this blog written by a pediatrician and mother of four boys.
Child Development and Mental Health
From raising a child in a high-tech age to stimulating development through play, these blogs offer the best on child development and mental health issues.
- Baby Mum-Mum. This blog, by the makers of Baby Mum-Mum, focuses on childhood health and development.
- Kid Stuff. From Psychology Today, this blog covers several topics relating to child development from TV to breastfeeding to playground difficulties.
- Digital Children. Another blog courtesy of Psychology Today, this one looks at the pressures and challenges of being a child in a high-tech age.
- Center on Media and Child Health. Learn about what scientific research and the latest news stories say about the effects of media on children’s health in this blog.
- Family Resource Blog. Read about child development, health, and safety issues such as asthma, water safety, and starting preschool.
- Creative Play. Find great suggestions to stimulate child development through play at this blog.
Specific Childhood Illnesses and Disorders
From juvenile arthritis to cystic fibrosis to epilepsy, these blogs offer information and education on a variety of childhood illnesses and disorders.
- Asthma Mom. This mom stays on top both asthma and healthcare in this blog inspired by her daughter’s asthma issues.
- Allergy and Asthma. While this blog isn’t solely for children, it does touch on several issues important for children with allergies and asthma.
- Breath Spa for Kids. Focusing on asthma and sleep-disordered breathing, this blog also looks at vaccinations and autism, journalism with integrity, and more.
- EBD Blog. Touching on several different topics pertaining to emotional and behavioral disorders, you will find posts on juvenile onset bipolar, autism, and more.
- Mothers Encouraging Mothers of Eosinophilic Children. Families or medical professionals who would like some insight into what it’s like dealing with eosinophilic disease can learn a lot with this blog.
- Pediatric Occupational and Physical Therapy Blog. From school-based therapies to botox for cerebral palsy, this blog offers plenty of OT and PT topics.
- Help My Hurt. This blog is an archive for articles written about juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and covers topics such as new drug treatments and drawing a picture of pain.
- Living With Juvenile Diabetes Symptoms. This mom of four (two of which have juvenile diabetes) offers blog posts with the latest in news, research, and more.
- Cure Cystic Fibrosis for Reilly. In an attempt to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis, this mom chronicles life with her daughter and provides facts and first-hand experiences.
- Blog for Down Syndrome. Written by a father of a Down Syndrome son, this blog brings news and more in a well-written, thought-provoking blog.
- Epilepsy in a Nutshell. This blog offers facts, news, opinions and perspectives of what it is like to parent a child with epilepsy.
- Blog About Tourette Syndrome–Tourette’s Disorder. Get facts, research, and more in this blog written by a mother who writes frequently about Tourette’s.
- Blog@BeautifulCanvas.org. This mom writes about her family and their journey with a daughter suffering from Tay-Sachs, AB Variant.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
With autism awareness at an all time high, more families are receiving help for their children. As research and eduation continues on a range of autism related disorders, these blogs help spread the word.
- Autism Research Blog: Translating Autism. For the latest on autism research, this blog brings research-based news with little editorial comment.
- Autism Blog. Written by a mother of a child with autism, this blog offers suggestions, support, and insight to living with autism.
- Autism Vox. This mother writes thought-provoking and thoughtful posts on autism including some of the latest news as well as her experience with her son’s autism.
- Interverbal: Reviews of Autism Statements and Research. This blog written by a special education grad student takes a critical look at all things autism.
- Social Skills for Kids. Aimed at children with autism, Asperger’s, and ADHD, this blog includes great posts touching on important social skill issues such as providing down time, helping kids understand subtle emotions, and focusing on the child’s strength.
- Action for Autism. This father and educator from the UK writes books and speaks about autism. This is his blog offering a look at the writing and research currently going on in the study of autism.
- Asperger-blog.com. Find links to books, resources, and news or get first-hand reports of what it’s like having a son with Asperger’s in this mom’s blog.
- Autism Watch: 2007. Parenting her autistic son since his birth in 2000, this mom writes about news, research, her experience, and opinions on the current trends.
- Hoping, Not Coping. Spreading the word about autism and sharing their family’s journey, this blog strives to inspire and educate.
- What We Need. Dealing with high-functioning autism, this family shares their experience of living and loving their seven year-old son.
Nutrition
Good nutrition is one of the greatest contributors to good health in children. These blogs offer the best advice, recipes, and ideas for healthy eating.
- Junkfood Science. Writing about nutrition, weight issues, food additives, and more, this nurse offers plenty of food for thought.
- Healthy Child Healthy World. Heavy on organics and going green, this blog provides tips for improving children’s health through better nutrition.
- Smart Foods Healthy Kids smart mama blog. From serving sizes to marketing healthy snacks to children to healthy breakfasts not from a cereal box, this blog promotes nutritional education for children, parents, and caregivers.
- SHS International. Providing medical nutrition from a healthcare professional’s perspective, this blog offers interesting posts on a wide variety of topics.
- Nourishing Thoughts. Written by a nurse, this blog focuses on healthy nutrition for children.
- A Life Less Sweet. This woman blogs about her family’s experience following a diet without high fructose corn syrup with recommendations for food as well as news on the subject.
Food Allergies
The amazing number of food allergies cropping up in children today is leaving many families devastated. These blogs offer support, suggestions, recipes, and more.
- Allergy Moms. Focusing specifically on food allergies, these moms blog about allergy-safe lunches, trick-or-treating tips with food allergies, and more.
- YummyAllergenFree. Written by a mom of three girls with food allergies, this blog provides recipes, support, and more for families dealing with food allergies.
- Food Allergy Buzz. With a focus on support for families dealing with food allergies, this blog provides links to allergen-free snacks, food allergy news, and more.
- The Allergic Kid. From getting the low-down on medic alert bracelets to allergen-free recipes, this informative blog is worth reading.
- Please Don’t Pass the Nuts. Get advice and more from this licensed psychotherapist/social worker who works with the food-allergic community (and has food allergies herself). Check out her listing of NYC restaurants that are allergy-free.
- ModernAllergyMom. From wheat-free play dough to food allergies in the news, this mom offers great posts to those dealing with food allergies.
- Mom’s Food Allergy Diner. Get delicious recipes without the allergens at this blog.
- Peanut Free Mama. Not only does this mama blog about all things peanut-free, but she also touches on other food allergies as well, specifically dairy and soy.
- The Milk-Free Blog. A part of GoDairyFree.org, this blog offers products and recipes for a dairy-free diet.
- Karina’s Kitchen. Get delicious gluten-free recipes from this blog written by a cook who discovered she has celiac disease.
- Gluten-Free Organics and More!. Written by a naturopathic doctor and mom of a whole family with gluten intolerances, this blog offers great suggestions for how to eat and live healthily gluten-free.
Vaccines
With such great debate among parents about whether or not to vaccinate your child and if you vaccinate, what schedule to follow, these blogs offer a view from many sides of the argument in a conversation that leaves all sides trying to do what is best for their children.
- Left Brain Right Brain. This father of an autistic daughter offers science to support vaccination while advocating for neurodiversity acceptance among the autistic population.
- Saying No to Vaccines. "Supporting your decision not to vaccinate," this Doctor of Osteopathy offers reasons not to vaccinate.
- Vaccine Blog. This blog takes a scientific approach to the pro-vaccine stance.
- Vaccine Awakening. Striving to support parent rights to vaccine choices, this woman blogs about legislature and news surrounding parents’ rights.
- VaccineEthics.org Blog. This bioethics research organization focuses on ethical practice of medicine. Their blog reports the latest news on the vaccine and bioethics front.
Dental Health
Not to be dismissed, dental health is an important part of overall health and is frequently overlooked by parents. These blogs offer the best on children’s dental health information.
- Pediatric Dentistry. Learn about pediatric dentistry and orthodontics on this blog that also features topics for those in the Alabama area–and an entertaining pig.
- Dr. Timon’s Pediatric Dental Blog. While learning about sealants and mercury used in dental fillings, you can also see a bit of personal information about Dr. Timon and the rest of the staff in his office.
- Small Tooth Talk. From flossing to EMG muscle awareness to the definition of a board certified dentist, this blog tells about it all.
- Big Grins: Dr. Greg Evans. Get monthly updates at this blog where the benefits of Xylitol reside next to updates on moving the dental practice into a new building.
- Children’s Dentistry Tips!. Learn about preventing tooth decay and more on this new blog devoted to keeping children’s teeth healthy.
Childbirth and Breastfeeding
Coming into this world can be a joyous as well as a potentially dangerous journey. Read these blogs for information and advice on creating a beautiful childbirth and breastfeeding experience for the mother and child.
- Have a Natural Childbirth. This blog includes amazing natural birth stories, posts by midwives and doulas, and more.
- Natural Childbirth for the "Hip Chick". This experienced mom talks about childbirth and caring for a newborn on this blog.
- Birth Ecology Project. Read this blog for information dedicated to gentle birth assisted by midwives and doulas.
- Black Breastfeeding Blog. Find information and history of breastfeeding for black women who breastfeed or expect to in the future.
- The Lactivist. Read about breastfeeding, parenting, and more at this blog.
- BreastfeedingMums Blog. Out of the U.K., this blogger writes about breastfeeding, health, and nutrition.
- Mama Knows Breast. Learn about breastfeeding topics and get the latest in the news about breastfeeding at this blog.
- The Beautiful Letdown. This mom writes about breastfeeding and tandem nursing in her blog posts.
- Breastfeeding123. Get tips, news, and support on breastfeeding from this experienced mother of three and breastfeeding counselor.
Podcasts
While some of these podcasts are specifically about children and their safety and health issues, others touch on a wide range of medical topics–often including pediatric health.
- PediaCast. Listen to weekly podcasts touching on a wide variety of pediatric health, wellness, and safety issues.
- Harvard Medical Labcast. Listen to podcasts from experts at Harvard Medical School as they offer a glimpse into the groundbreaking work going on in the field of medicine.
- Medcast. From the Stanford School of Medicine, these podcasts offer a sampling of lectures from renowned experts. some podcasts include stem cell research, childhood obesity, and women and heart disease.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine Podcasts. Presented by a professor of medicine and the director of electronic media, this podcast brings weekly looks at all the top news from the medical world.
- University of Michigan’s Your Child Podcast. Get updates on child development and behavior from the experts at University of Michigan.
- New England Journal of Medicine. This medical journal offers two different podcasts. Listen to Audio Interviews or select NEJM This Week for a recap of all the articles in the journal.
- The University of Arizona Department of Pediatrics Podcasts. From interviewing adolescents to herbs for use in pediatrics, listen to the latest from this medical school.
- Pediatrics: The Nursing Show Podcasts. From autism to pediatric pain management, listen to these podcasts from the nurse’s perspective.
- Children’s Health Podcasts. From the Medical University of South Carolina, listen to the many topics available ranging from asthma to breastfeeding to sickle cell disease.
- Pediatric Physical Therapy. Select from the available podcasts on Science Audio to find out about the latest in physical therapy for children.
For or By Professionals
With everything from research to health care ethics to recent news, these blogs usually touch on child-specific topics, but sometimes venture into the greater field of medicine as it affects children and adults alike.
- PediatricEducation.org Blog. While specifically designed for medical professionals, this blog is also available for parents wanting to learn more. Each blog post contains a case history and options for learning more.
- Dr. J’s HouseCalls. This pediatrician takes a look at the field of medicine from her perspective with a run-in with some questionable non-profit board members at a hospital.
- Dr. David’s Blog. This practicing pediatrician, who also works as a professor of oncology, blogs about pediatric oncology, cancer research, and cancer treatments.
- Family Medicine Notes. This physician keeps notes of what he learns through his practice and offers advice as well as links to medical news in his blog.
- National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Read the many blogs on this site written by nurse practitioners on a wide range of children’s health topics.
- The Health Advocate. A collaborative blog of The Health Advocacy Program at Sarah Lawrence, this blog examines the issues surrounding patient advocacy and the current state of health care in America.
- Health Care Organizational Ethics. This Harvard professor writes about the state of health care, including topics such as personal responsibility, pharmaceuticals, and hospital ethics.
- Momma Data. This former research psychologist and current mother analyzes and writes about recent pediatric and family topics in the news.
- Momwithastethoscope’s Weblog. From tainted baby formula in China to celebrity moms taking good care of their kiddos, this mom-doctor-blogger writes about a variety of topics.
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine Law Blog. This blogger is both a practicing lawyer and was an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. He currently writes about integrating complementary and alternative medicine into western medical practice.
- Dr. Thompson’s Blog. This practicing pediatrician and professor of pediatrics writes about the state of health care with a focus on children and family issues.
Although games have traditionally been viewed as strictly leisure activities, and often, time wasters, the fact is that there are a number of games available that will help you improve your health and wellness. Whether they are video games, fun devices, or brain games, many games can help you on your quest for self improvement. Read on to learn about 50 different games that will help you step up your fitness, brain power, and overall wellness.
Video Games
These video games offer valuable wellness education in a fun package.
- Fable: In this game, the main character chooses foods to consume, and depending on whether he eats high fat or low fat foods, his appearance will change.
- Heart Sense: This video game works to help increase heart attack awareness.
- Re-Mission: While playing Re-Misson, kids take on missions that help them defeat malignant cancer cells.
- Feed the Monster: This game helps to teach proper nutrition to kids.
- Pulse!!: Learn more about medical care in this game that’s set in the Bethesda Naval Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.
Devices
With these devices, you’ll be able to exercise and be well while you’re playing games. Use this to make sure your games are healthy on the wallet as well.
- PCGamerBike: With the PCGamerBike, you can play any PC game that uses a keyboard for input, and get fit at the same time.
- Bodypad: Control your favorite fighting games with motion tracking using these pads that strap to your knees, waist, elbows, and hands.
- Fisher Price Smart Cycle: This arcade system integrates a miniature exercise bike with gaming hardware designed for kids.
- Glucoboy: Glucoboy is a glucose meter that can be used with the Nintendo Gameboy to reward children for maintaining good blood sugar control.
- EyeToy: Using this gaming device, you can play physically interactive games on many popular consoles.
- Gamercize: Gamercize offers a gaming incentive system, which allows you to power your gaming console by stepping in place.
- jOG: jOG’s in-game motion sensing controller will translate your motions into your character’s motions on the PlayStation 2.
Exergaming
These games offer an element of exercise as a prominent feature in their program. Even the famous nurses of the past would have approved of these.
- Dance Dance Revolution: This wildly popular dancing game requires fast moves and quick reflexes.
- Eye Toy Kinetic: Designed for fitness, Eye Toy Kinetic offers an interactive fitness experience for cardio, combat, mind and body, and toning.
- Twister: Played on a large plastic mat with friends and family, Twister will test and improve your flexibility, balance, and coordination.
- Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2009: Although not released yet, this game from Jillian Michaels promises to give you a good workout using the Wii balance board.
- Nicktoons Movin’: Using the EyeToy, this game from Nicktoons lets kids and kids at heart exercise with their favorite Nickelodeon characters.
- My Weight Loss Coach: Create a profile and goal plan with this DS game that offers the advice of a fitness coach and nutritionist.
- We Ski: Race down the slopes and get a workout without the pricey lift fees on this Wii game.
- Active Life Outdoor Challenge: This game has over a dozen mini games like river rafting, log jumping, and water trampoline designed to get you moving.
- Let’s Yoga: Learn how to do a variety of yoga poses with this game for the Nintendo DS.
- Eye Toy Groove: Use your Eye Toy to get up and dance to the beat of hit songs using this game.
- Guitar Hero: A fun and interactive music game, Guitar Hero will get you off the couch and test your hand eye coordination.
- Yourself Fitness: Follow Maya through yoga, pilates, cardio, and strength-training exercise videos in Yourself Fitness.
- Mario Super Sluggers: Get a major league workout with this Wii baseball game.
- Showtime Championship Boxing: Put your boxing skills to the test with this championiship boxing game for the Wii.
- Let’s Pilates: This Nintendo DS game will help you learn more than 40 different pilates poses.
- Wii Fit: Wii Fit and its accompanying balance board offers a number of different games designed to improve your fitness in a really fun environment.
- Wii Sports: Wii Sports offers a collection of sports games that will improve your coordination and give you a mild workout.
- Flash Focus: Vision Training in Minutes a Day: Improve your vision and focus power with this DS game that has lots of different games for your eyes.
Brain Games
Play these brain games to improve your memory and overall brain power.
- Games for the Brain: This website offers plenty of games for brain health, including Chinese checkers, chess, and word games.
- Crosswords DS: Get a collection of crossword puzzles for all skill levels with this game for the Nintendo DS.
- Sudoku: Sudoku is a logic based number placement puzzle that will give your brain a workout.
- My Word Coach: Improve your vocabulary with this DS game that offers word coaching for 17,000 words.
- Mahjong: This Chinese tile gambling game will help you improve your skill, strategy, and calculation.
- Brainist: Here you’ll find loads of fun and useful online brain games for adults.
- My French Coach: Using My French Coach, you can learn how to speak French in a really fun way.
- Margot’s Word Brain: Play Margot’s game to challenge your vocabulary with puzzles like Word Mine, Word Link, and Word Safe.
- Spelling Challenges and More: Test and improve your spelling skills with this game that has more than 25,000 words to spell at 100 difficulty levels in 11 different games.
- New York Times Crosswords: With over 1,000 crossword puzzles, this game has plenty of resources for giving your brain a quick pick me up.
- Brain Age: Play this game’s collection of puzzles to improve your brain power in just a few minutes every day.
- Scrabble: Improve your vocabulary with this fun and addictive word game.
- Smarty Pants: Trivia for Everyone: Build your knowledge with this trivia game that boasts 20,000 questions in 8 different categories with multiple difficulty levels.
- Lumosity: Lumosity will help you "reclaim your brain" with brain training games that improve your memory and attention.
- My Spanish Coach: Learn Spanish using this video game that offers mini games, competition, evaluation, and vocabulary tools.
- Chess: Chess is a popular game that will challenge your strategy and planning skills.
- Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader: Take on the 5th grade challenge with this game that offers more than 6,000 questions to test your knowledge.
- Prevention Brain Games: Prevention’s collection of brain games will help you sharpen your memory and give your brain a workout.
- Big Brain Academy: Get a Wii Degree with this game that challenges your brain and allows you to compete with other players.
- Rainbow Stress Reduction Games: Rainbow Stress Reduction’s games offer a simple way to clear your mind and relax.