The Magnificent Seven
Around our clinic we like to refer to them as the Magnificent Seven. No, not the rough and ready cowboys of the classic 1960 film, but rather the seven (yes, just seven) men who work at Beloit Area Community Health Center (BACHC). They are a bit outnumbered with 10 women to every man, but they see this as a positive!
“Working at the Beloit Area Community Health Center is a privilege. I enjoy my work as the Medical Director, I appreciate our patients, and I enjoy my co-workers.” said Dr. Manuj Goel.
As one of our four dentists on staff, Dr. Chris Greenwald agrees, “Growing up 10 minutes from BACHC, I was fortunate to be able to come home to provide care to those who need it most. I am grateful that BACHC allows me to work with such an outstanding group of young professionals in Dr.’s Selissa Mantas, Naheed Ahmad, and Katie Wilson.”
Since June is National Men’s Health Month, we decided to seek out the advice of our seven male employees. We asked them to share their suggestions on eating right, exercising and reducing stress.
Goel and Greenwaldt both concur that exercise and a healthy diet lead to a healthy lifestyle and reduce stress. Goel recommends, “thirty minutes of moderate physical activity five or more days per week.” He continued that it “helps in losing weight, improving blood sugar control, decreasing blood pressure and improving blood fats.”
To lead a healthy lifestyle Greenwaldt encourages everyone to just keep moving and learn as much as possible nutrition and fitness. Greenwaldt has taken his own words to heart and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Nutrition. One of his favorite quotes is by Anthony Bourdain, “If I am an advocate for anything, it is to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food. It’s a plus for everybody.”
Jason Grimm, Senior Accounting Specialist, likes to work in his yard and garage to keep himself moving. He suggests that staying hydrated is the best way to evaluate if you are really hungry, “Whenever I’m hungry, I grab a drink first. Most of the time when people think they are hungry, they are just thirsty instead. Keep drinking and you will be less hungry!”
Kim Visgar, Facility Assistant, agrees with Grimm when it comes to drinking water, “drink lots of water every day. It keeps you hydrated and feeling good.” Visgar also walks to help regulate his heart, “walking is great exercise and can be done at any time of the day.”
Thad Regenold, Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetic Educator, likes to monitor his intake of carbohydrates and calories, “Being aware of what you are eating and how many calories you are taking in is a great start to leading a heathy lifestyle.” Regenold recommends avoiding pop/soda and concentrated sweets, “Try incorporating more lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains into your weekly diet plan.”
Making time to take walks with his wife and children is part of Asa Rowan’s overall health plan. “Rather than a sedentary family activity like watching a movie, I will grab my family and our dog and head out for a nice walk. We enjoy the family time together and we are getting exercise,” Rowan shared. Rowan is the Safety and Security Manager at CHS and his job keeps him very busy during the day. However, even though he is active, he likes to monitor and manage his food portions by taking less, “You can always add more food to your plate if you are still hungry.”
Mark Lundvall, Director of Finance, agrees with Rowan when it comes to exercise and says, “That I feel my best when I exercise in the morning.” Research indicates that exercising first thing in the morning can enhance your metabolism, increase your energy level and help in getting a better night’s sleep, so it appears that Lundvall is on to something. Lundvall also tries to incorporate a lot of vegetables into his diet, “It’s a great time of year to take advantage of all the fresh produce that is available at the Farmers’ Markets in the area.”
National Men’s Health month is celebrated across the country in June. The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.
Our clinic operates on a sliding fee scale for uninsured or underinsured patients. We also accept Medicaid and Medicare. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with a primary health care provider at our clinic, please call 608-361-0311.
