As the fall cold, flu, and COVID season approaches, Family Care Centers Medical Group is committed to helping you with expert advice and comprehensive healthcare services. Our team of professionals has compiled essential tips to keep you healthy and active during the cooler months.
Strengthening your immune system is crucial as temperatures drop. Increase your intake of vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens. The National Institutes of Health recommends 65 to 90 milligrams of vitamin C daily for adults. Additionally, maintain adequate vitamin D levels through safe sun exposure or supplements, as advised by your healthcare provider. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep are also vital for immune function, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly for adults.
Proper hydration remains essential even as the weather cools. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine advises an adequate daily fluid intake of about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women. These amounts include fluids from both beverages and food. In colder weather, warm herbal teas and broths can contribute to your daily fluid intake while providing comfort.
The CDC strongly recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. Flu shots are particularly crucial in autumn as influenza activity typically increases in October and peaks between December and February. Family Care Centers Medical Group offers convenient flu vaccination services to help protect you and your loved ones from seasonal influenza. (The winter is also expected to bring another surge of COVID cases; consider getting the latest COVID booster that just came out a month ago, whether the mRNA Pfizer or Moderna, or the standard vaccine technology Novavax.)
Maintain hygiene practices to minimize the spread of germs. The World Health Organization advises washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and upon returning home; we also recommend minimizing touching your face or eyes when in public. When soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Autumn brings a surge in ragweed pollen and mold spores. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends using HEPA air purifiers indoors and monitoring local pollen counts to plan outdoor activities accordingly. Consult with our providers at Family Care Centers Medical Group for allergy management strategies.
Take advantage of milder temperatures to engage in outdoor activities. The American Heart Association notes that regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and enhance mental well-being. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or gardening.
Preventive care is fundamental to maintaining good health. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular health screenings tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors. Our providers at Family Care Centers Medical Group are equipped to perform comprehensive check-ups and help you stay ahead of potential health issues.
Recognize symptoms that require immediate medical attention, such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of stroke. Family Care Centers Medical Group offers efficient urgent care services for non-life-threatening conditions that cannot wait for a regular appointment. Our facilities in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa are prepared to address your urgent healthcare needs promptly.
If you're planning autumn travel, consult with our healthcare providers well in advance. The CDC recommends getting necessary vaccinations at least 4-6 weeks before international travel. Our travel health services can provide tailored advice and immunizations to ensure a safe and healthy trip.
As autumn unfolds, prioritize your health with these evidence-based strategies. Family Care Centers Medical Group is dedicated to supporting your well-being throughout the season. For personalized care, vaccinations, or to schedule a check-up, contact our offices in Irvine, Fountain Valley, or Costa Mesa.
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
