- Wellness, Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogNothing says Valentine’s Day like a box of chocolate. But this Feb. 14, treat your loved one to the rich, health-boosting benefits of dark chocolate. Chew on this: chocolate—specifically dark chocolate—has gained attention in recent years for its impressive health benefits. A new study backs this up, revealing that eating just a few servings of dark chocolate each week can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specifically, the study found that people who ate at least five servings of dark chocolate a week had a 21 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who rarely or never ate dark chocolate. What’s more, the more dark chocolate they consumed, the better the outcome, with each additional serving reducing the risk by another 3 percent. But it’s not all good news. The study found no similar benefits for milk chocolate. In fact, it linked milk chocolate consumption to long-term weight gain—a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. So, what makes dark chocolate stand out from its milk counterpart? In a word: a lot. Big benefits of dark chocolate According to the American Heart Association, a standard bar of dark chocolate with 70 percent to 85 percent cacao (cocoa in its raw, less-processed form) contains about 600 calories and 24 grams of sugar. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, packs roughly the same calories, but double the sugar content. Most dark chocolate is also rich in flavonoids—especially a subtype called flavanols, which have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Cocoa beans are naturally high in flavanols, and since dark chocolate contains more cocoa than other types of chocolate, it also packs more flavanols (Flavanols can also be found in tea, red wine, apples and berries.) As antioxidants, flavanols play a key role in producing nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels, improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. They also support a balanced immune system and have a positive impact on brain function, boosting reaction time and memory. Dark chocolate’s lesser-known health benefits While heart health, brain function, and immune support grab the spotlight, dark chocolate also offers other surprising health benefits, such as: Enhanced mood Dark chocolate may increase feelings of pleasure and enjoyment. A 2022 study found that people who ate 85 percent dark chocolate daily maintained a better overall mood than those who ate chocolate with less or no cocoa. Improved workouts Because flavanols promote the production of nitric oxide in the blood, eating dark chocolate can reduce the amount of oxygen you use while exercising, meaning you can work out for longer. Sun protection Eating dark chocolate may protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) ray damage. Reduced stress Eating dark chocolate can reduce levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Dark chocolate is also rich in fiber and packed with important minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which among other things, help boost immunity, support bone health, improve sleep quality and help maintain energy levels. Facts to remember Still, there are a few things to keep in mind about dark chocolate, such as: The higher the cocoa content, the better. Aim for dark chocolate that’s at least 70 percent cacao. Always check the nutrition label. You can counteract the benefits if the chocolate is high in calories, fat and sugar. Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans. According to the latest data, more than 38 million people, about 1 in 10, have diabetes, with 90 to 95 percent of them having type 2 diabetes. Even more concerning about 98 million Americans, or 1 in 3—have prediabetes, which can lead to type 2 diabetes if left untreated. The good news is prediabetes is reversible, and with lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active, you can delay or even prevent most cases of type 2 diabetes. And maybe, by eating more dark chocolate. Author Colleen Kiley, MS, RD, is a lead diabetes educator for Luminis Health Diabetes and Endocrine Specialists. To make an appointment, please call 443-481-6700.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogBuilding a healthier future for all means ensuring that every community has the resources and support needed to thrive. National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) serves as an annual reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of HIV. By raising awareness, promoting prevention, and expanding access to care, we can empower individuals and create a future free from health disparities. Since 1999, NBHAAD has aligned with Black History Month to celebrate the achievements surrounding HIV testing and prevention, and education, while addressing the disproportionate impacts of HIV/AIDS on Black individuals. It’s a day to celebrate progress, foster education and empower individuals to take control of their health and support those living with HIV/AIDS. Impact Despite representing 12% of the U.S. population, Black individuals account for nearly half of the nation’s population living with HIV/AIDS. This stark disparity stems from systemic barriers such as inadequate access to education, testing resources, healthcare and the pervasive effects of inequities. NBHAAD was created to confront these challenges and inspire change. According to the National Library of Medicine, HIV incidence among Black women is more than 20 times higher than among white women. The HIV Surveillance Report states that if current HIV rates continue, “one in two Black gay men who have sex with men will contract HIV in their lifetime.” Additionally, more than 60% of Black transgender women surveyed reported living with HIV. This data demonstrates the importance of targeted resources and support to combat the negative impacts of HIV/AIDS on the Black community. Education Understanding how HIV is transmitted is key to reducing risk and taking steps to protect yourself and others. HIV is transmitted through contact with certain infected body fluids, including: Unprotected vaginal or anal sex Sharing needles, syringes, or other injection equipment From parent to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding HIV symptoms include fever, chills, rashes, muscle aches, sore throat, and fatigue. These symptoms can occur within 2-4 weeks after exposure. Testing If you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV, getting tested promptly is essential. Knowing your status empowers you to take control of your health and helps prevent the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers HIV testing kits that can be ordered online, allowing individuals to learn their status in the privacy of their own homes. Order a kit or find local testing locations on the CDC website. The Maryland Health Department provides free HIV testing kits, along with information about local services and care providers. Learn more. Early detection and treatment prevent the spread of HIV and improve health outcomes. If you test positive for HIV, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, who can help you access treatment and specialized care. At Luminis Health, our Primary Care team is here to support you every step of the way.
- Heart Care, SurgeryGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhile grocery shopping with his wife over the summer, John Cryan ran up a set of stairs from a parking garage and started to feel faint. He doesn’t remember blacking out but recalls waking up inside his car. His wife called 911, and an ambulance took him to Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC).At the hospital, lab results showed a high troponin level, indicating a heart attack. John met with Scott Katzen, MD, medical director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory at LHAAMC, who recommended coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).Shortly after, John consulted with David Caparrelli, MD, Chief of Cardiac Surgery. Dr. Caparrelli explained that he could use an innovative surgical instrument to freeze John’s nerves, blocking pain signals to the brain and thus aiding in John’s recovery from open heart surgery. This technique, pioneered by Dr. Caparrelli and the team at Luminis Health, has provided long-lasting pain relief for more than 100 patients, and Luminis Health is one of the only hospitals in the country to offer this treatment. John and his wife agreed that surgery with Dr. Caparrelli was the right next step.“In some cases, you meet a surgeon once and never see them again. Dr. Caparrelli checked in on me multiple times and made me feel like I was his only patient,” John says.After surgery, John received a bottle of Tylenol for any discomfort. Six months later, he has yet to open it.“With many health care options, there’s an upside and a downside. In this case, there was only an upside. I recovered quickly and didn’t need pain relief medication,” says John.By October, three months after surgery, John realized he felt better than he had in 20 years. Now, six months post-operation, he completes an hour of cardiovascular exercise and walks his dog in the woods every day.Happily retired from a successful career in international banking, John enjoys a change of pace, spending summers on the Severn River in Annapolis. This season is especially meaningful to him, thanks to the life-saving care he received from Luminis Health.If you or a loved one needs heart surgery, visit Luminis.Health/HeartSurgery to learn about our treatment options.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3Blog(ANNAPOLIS, MD)— Luminis Health, the region’s premier healthcare organization, has been recognized by the Maryland General Assembly with a special citation for its longstanding commitment to providing healthcare services to lawmakers during each legislative session. The honor was presented to Luminis Health CEO Tori Bayless during a special recognition on the House floor, highlighting the organization's dedication to serving 1.8 million people across Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties, the Eastern Shore, and beyond. “Thank you to our state legislators for this recognition and their unwavering support and partnership in improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve,” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “This honor is a testament to our extraordinary team of clinicians, caregivers, and staff who are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered, and accessible health care, by exemplifying our RISE Values--Respect, Inclusion, Service, and Excellence.” As part of its continued commitment to public health, Luminis Health was proud to partner with Delegate Anne Healey to relaunch the Maryland General Assembly’s annual Blood Drive on the same day as the recognition. The event, paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returned this year to support local patients in need of blood. “Every blood donation has the power to save lives,” said Delegate Healey. “This initiative is deeply personal to me because my own son’s life was saved by multiple blood transfusions. By donating blood, we directly support our community and help ensure that patients receive the lifesaving care they need.” Luminis Health’s Blood Center Team facilitated the collection of donations by stationing its donor bus outside the House Office Building. All donated blood will stay local, supporting Luminis Health’s hospitals, emergency departments, and patients undergoing both routine and critical treatments. “Donating a pint of blood can save up to three lives,” said Tori Bayless. “On behalf of Luminis Health and Delegate Healey, thank you to everyone who donated and gave the gift of life during this important event at the State House.” Anyone interested in donating blood or host a blood drive in the community can visit the Luminis Health Blood Center website to learn more.
- Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogYour heart is more than just a muscle—it’s the engine that keeps your body running. With every beat, it pumps oxygen-rich blood to your organs. But what happens when this vital system starts to break down? Heart disease can develop quietly, showing only subtle signs before becoming a serious threat. A new report by the American Heart Association reveals cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The tricky part? The early warning signs aren’t always obvious and can vary based on factors like age and gender. Recognizing them early could make all the difference Types of Heart Disease Heart disease is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. The most common is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the blood vessels in your heart narrow, making it harder for blood to flow properly. However, heart disease isn’t just about clogged arteries. Faulty heart valves can force the heart to work harder, while electrical malfunctions can cause arrhythmias—irregular heartbeats that may lead to blood clots, strokes, or heart failure. Some people are also born with congenital heart disease, which affects the heart’s structure from birth. Understanding these conditions is the first step, but recognizing the symptoms and catching them early is crucial to protecting your heart health. Early Warning Signs of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) CAD makes it harder for blood to reach your heart and other parts of your body. If the artery blockage is severe, it puts you at risk of a heart attack. CAD/heart attack warning signs include: Chest pain or tightness (often described as sharp, squeezing, or a feeling of pressure, like an elephant sitting on your chest). Pain in your jaw, neck, throat, upper belly, back, or one or both arms. Unusual fatigue or shortness of breath (especially in women). Cold sweats, often with nausea or lightheadedness (more common in women). Women are more likely to have “silent” heart disease, meaning they may not experience obvious symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are often mistaken for the flu, stress, or simply the effects of aging. Unlike men, who typically experience chest pain during physical activity, women are more likely to feel discomfort while resting. The risk of CAD increases for women around age 50, when estrogen's protective effects decline, while men typically see their risk rise in their 40s. Early Warning Signs of Heart Rhythm Problems (Arrhythmia) Arrhythmias cause your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Symptoms can include: A fluttering feeling in your chest. A racing heartbeat. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Shortness of breath. Chest pain (though it’s not always the main symptom). Early Warning Signs of Heart Valve Problems Your heart has four valves that open and close to keep blood moving. Issues with these valves—whether they’re narrowing, leaking, or not closing properly—can cause: Fatigue or a lack of energy. Shortness of breath. Swollen ankles and feet (from fluid buildup). Dizziness or fainting. Chest pain (though it’s not a common early symptom). Don’t Wait to See a Doctor If you notice any heart disease symptoms, it’s important to see your primary care doctor right away. They might refer you to a cardiologist, who might prescribe heart medications, create treatment plans, and, if needed, refer you to a specialist or surgeon for advanced care. To learn more about our cardiology services or to schedule an appointment, visit Luminis.Health/Cardiology or call (443) 481-6700. Taking care of your heart starts with understanding it—don’t ignore the warning signs! Authors Dr. Salvatore Lauria, MD, is a board-certified invasive cardiologist with a special interest in congestive heart failure and preventive medicine.
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