And what better time than springtime to kick your fitness up a notch? Longer days and warmer weather provide the perfect motivation. And you do not have to train for a marathon, either. Just get more activity than before and you are getting on track. Let springtime inspire you to break down those barriers and finally make fitness a way of life.  Take those evening strolls with your spouse, play outside with your children, take your dog for a nice long walk.

Regular physical activity improves your mood, enhances the quality of your life, helps you burn off stress and, most important, it strengthens your body while it burns calories. Physical activity helps your body work the way it is supposed to. Even simple walking is a good, weight-bearing exercise that helps keep muscles, and your heart strong.

Think about how good you feel when you finish your workout. Many people have trouble getting started, but once they finish, they feel terrific, partly due to endorphins, those feel-good brain chemicals.

Evidence suggests that physical activity improves mental ability in people with heart disease, and that music enhances brainpower. And the combination of music and exercise was found to be more stimulating to the brain than exercise alone. So, turn your music up and get started.

Through your health insurance plan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina offers all the essential benefits under Obamacare and having your wellness/preventive care visit each year is covered at 100% with no deductible. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program, and then spring into action.

For more information on North Carolina insurance coverage, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.

Did you know that moderate intensity physical activity can help you live longer and reduce health problems? Regular exercise helps control blood pressure, body weight and cholesterol levels, and cuts the risk for hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke. It conditions muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones to help fight osteoporosis, keep your body more limber and stabilize your joints, thus lowering the risk of everyday injury. Also, it improves digestion and is good for managing lower back pain, arthritis and diabetes. Regular physical activity helps you maintain your independence. Recently, there has been research that suggests an active lifestyle lowers the risk of some cancers. But perhaps the best reason for incorporating regular exercise into your life is that you will feel better. Exercise helps you sleep better and manage stress better, and gives you more energy to enjoy work and play.

A good exercise program includes cardiovascular exercise, muscular conditioning and flexibility exercises. The best cardiovascular exercises for seniors are non-jarring, such as walking, swimming and cycling. Start with a light regimen and gradually build up to a total of at least 30 minutes of activity on most days of the week. Playing with children, walking the dog, dancing and gardening are other ways to incorporate activity into your daily routine.

Strengthening exercises such as lifting light weights help to maintain your muscle mass and promote bone health. Research suggests that adults older than 50 years who do not perform resistance training lose nearly 1/4 pound of muscle mass per year. Since muscle mass is directly related to how many calories your body burns each day, resistance training is important for weight management. End each workout with stretching exercises to help maintain your mobility and range of motion and decrease your risk for injury.

The best way to keep fit is to choose exercises you like. Some older adults like aqua aerobics, yoga, pilates or just walking the dog. Seniors also enjoy group exercise classes, since they offer an opportunity to socialize and develop friendships.  As always, make sure you consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.

For more information on North Carolina insurance coverage, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.

One way to manage stress effectively is to practice relaxation.  In fact, developing relaxation techniques is an essential part of stress management.  If you are an overachiever, you may put relaxation low on your priority list, but don’t shortchange yourself.  Purposeful relaxation intended to recharge your mind and body is widely recognized as an important habit of highly effective individuals.

Luckily, the summer months offer many forms of enjoyable relaxation techniques such as paddle-boarding, kayaking or sitting on the beach enjoying the sunrise.  Warmer weather allows you to get outside and take a quiet walk through the woods or a an early morning swim, both of which will help you relax, which will aid in overall health and wellness.  Taking a positive step toward stress free living will get you one step closer to a healthy lifestyle and here at NC Health Plans, we think that’s one of the most important things you can do!

For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our professional agents.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina

Here are 5 easy things you can do to improve the condition of your heart:

1. RELAX:  This may sound simple, but in today’s fast-paced, media-driven society, finding time to relax can be tough.  It’s important for your heart, however, that you make relaxation a priority in your day.  The kind of relaxation that relieves stress calms tension in your body and mind and can relax blood vessels in the heart, which results in lower blood pressure.  Deliberate relaxation involves purposefully sitting quietly twice daily for 10-15 minutes.  You should find a distraction-free zone where you can close your eyes and breathe deeply, focusing on the intake and output of oxygen.  Relaxing with purpose can be a life-saving activity.
2. EAT SMART:  Heart-healthy foods include salmon, oatmeal, blueberries, dark chocolate, red wine, tomatoes, nuts, avocado and green leafy vegetables.  Choosing a few times a week to swap a less healthy protein such as beef or pork for a leaner protein such as fish can decrease your risk of heart disease substantially.  Good fish options include sardines, anchovies, salmon, herring, trout, and canned white tuna.
3. STOP SMOKING:  Smoking is just bad for your heart.  It increases heart rate and blood pressure and can lead to blood clots in the blood vessels.  Health insurance plans are typically 20% more expensive for people who smoke and this is the only health question you will be asked on an insurance application under the Affordable Care Act.  The savings alone is reason enough to quit, but your heart will thank you also!  Apply with BCBSNC today for your lower rate.
4. LIMIT CAFFEINE INTAKE:  Caffeine is present in coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate.  Be moderate in your consumption and try limiting your intake to no more than a cup or two a day of caffeinated beverages.  If you like soda, sparkling water is an excellent substitute and will give you all of the fizz without any of the negative health effects.
5. GET SOME SLEEP:  When it comes to being heart healthy, getting a good night of sleep is paramount.  Poor sleep quality adds stress to your heart and can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.  When it comes to your heart, getting sufficient sleep is just as important as maintaining diet and exercise.

It’s nothing new.  In fact, it’s just what Mom always told you.  Eat right, get some rest, and avoid bad habits that take a toll on your heart.  It’s a new year and making these few simple changes could give your heart a whole new chance at life!  BCBSNC supports heart health by offering preventive care services covered at 100%.  Contact one of our licensed and professional agents to discuss your Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina options.

For more information, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.

From hiking and biking to surfing and swimming, North Carolina summers offer plenty of opportunity to get outside and get moving.  On my most recent trip to the beach, our family went paddle boarding, an activity we have only recently discovered, but are coming to love.  Having not grown up at the beach, I never learned to surf and was originally apprehensive at the thought of trying to stand up on what looks like a big surf board and navigate across water.  In addition, I never suspected my young children could really enjoy such an activity.  Having tried it, however, I am pleasantly surprised at how easy it really is, for children and adults alike.

In addition to being fun, Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is an excellent source of physical exercise.  Tagged “The Ocean’s Bicycle,” by World Windsurf Champion Mickey Eskimo, Stand Up Paddle Boarding allows you to leisurely or aggressively work your way across almost any body of water.  Paddle Boarding can be very easy and gentle gliding or you can sprint paddle depending on whether you are looking for a relaxing experience or a more strenuous workout.  In recent years, cross training has become increasingly popular and one of the golden rules of cross training is the use of unstable surfaces.  Exercising on unbalanced surfaces, such as water, specifically targets coordination between different muscle groups, creating increased core strength, balance, stability and stamina.

As opposed to more traditional forms of exercise that target specific muscle groups in isolation in a stable environment, training on unbalanced surfaces builds core muscles strength.  Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) requires your body to use explosive strength while on the move, which produces the same sort of benefit you get from cross-training in a fluid environment.  Because you must balance on the board, your body is always adjusting and this adjustment is what creates very effective resistance training for your muscles, without excessive strain.

More importantly, it’s just a fun way to exercise!  I have now paddle boarded both in a standing position and on my knees.  I have also paddle boarded alone on a board and with young children sitting on my board while I paddle.  And I have enjoyed all of it.  There is something very peaceful about being out on the water and SUP allows for water exercise that is neither too difficult nor too demanding.  For a fun family activity and a great day of exercise in the sun, give Stand Up Paddle Boarding a try!  Like me, you may wind up discovering a new hobby that can last a lifetime.

Before starting any fitness program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity and find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new activity.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Summer is supposed to be full of fun activity, but if you have children you know all too well how difficult it can be to get your kids moving.  With all the allure of Facebook, YouTube, video games, cell phones and good old fashioned cable TV, it can be a serious challenge to get your children out of the house and into physical activity.  Pediatricians, physical educators, and health experts, however, all agree that too many kids are choosing to fill up their summer vacation with sedentary activities rather than with activities that require exercise and physical exertion.  Honestly, what’s a mom to do?  How can we possibly compete with the images and interactions our kids can experience without ever having to move a muscle?

If we know that the experts recommend at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, then how can we help our kids stay fit without subjecting them to the tedium of the treadmill or making them feel as if their summer is nothing more than another task filled time of life?  From one parent to another, I admit I don’t have all the answers, but here are some ideas I have collected from various sources to help us keep our kids from falling into the trap of a sedentary summer.

1.  Media-free Monday:   We all know our kids should be watching less television, less YouTube and playing less video games, but it’s tough.  One thing I’ve discovered is that if kids don’t expect to get it, they won’t be quite as disappointed.  Instituting one day a week where media is simply off limits not only manages expectations, it also gets kids thinking about other things they can do to make summer enjoyable.  Starting the week off with a day that requires kids to think outside the box can actually set you up for success for the rest of the week.  Make it fun, make it challenging and let your kids know that there are six other days of the week when media can be a part of their day.  I once read that it’s not what we are doing while watching TV that’s dangerous, it’s what we’re NOT doing.  It’s surprising what you can accomplish or create or learn in an eight hour day when media is simply off the table.

2.  Set Physical Fitness Goals:  One summer, I offered my children $25 a piece if they completed a physical fitness challenge.  That summer, one of my children learned to ride her bike and another worked his way up to doing 25 push-ups in a row.  Goals are important and as a mother, I am happy to invest a little money in my children’s physical health.  Perhaps set the goal of being able to swim 10 laps without stopping, or find a 5K and offer a small reward to the child who completes it.  Teaching our children now that exercise is important will be worth it’s weight in gold further down the road when we’ve raised healthy, physically active adults.

3.  Exercise Together:  Let’s face it, kids aren’t the only ones who struggle with laziness, especially after an eight hour day at the office.  The nice part about summer is that the days are longer.  Take advantage of those summer evenings, when it’s still light outside, but not quite as hot, by making after dinner a time when your family gets outside.  Take a bike ride or a walk or play a game of basketball or freeze tag.  You’ll be surprised at how much more willing your kids are to exercise when you are doing it with them and who knows?  It could be you all discover you would rather be outside playing together than inside watching another rerun of Family Feud.

4.  Make a Schedule:  Although you don’t want summer to become too rigid, too much down time can also become a burden, especially for children who tend to be high achievers.  Perhaps create a modified summer schedule that factors in specific times to read, create, exercise and relax.  A variety of activities will keep your children from becoming bored and will also keep the juices flowing.  Maybe you have an artist or a chef or a musician in your home.  Summer is one of the best times to explore some of the more creative aspects of your child’s personality.  If you don’t know what to do, ask your children.  They know what they enjoy better than anyone and if you make it fun and interesting, they won’t resent having scheduled time to do things other than simply sit on the couch or stare at a screen.

5.  Keep it Simple:  Sometimes as parents we fall into the trap of believing bigger is always better, but it’s simply not true.  Although my kids love to go to specialized camps for basketball or gymnastics, they don’t want to go to camp all summer and they don’t need day after day of elaborate outings in order to be active and find enjoyment.  A simple game of soccer in the yard, throwing a Frisbee at the beach or walking to the local library can be equally, if not more, gratifying.  Make a list of 50 things you would like to do with your kids this summer that don’t cost a lot of money, but provide a lot of activity and interaction.  Not only will your kids be thrilled, I’d be willing to bet you will find that summer is a big success for the whole family.

The dangers of a sedentary summer are obvious and the experts agree.  Both adults and children need more exercise and practicing preventive care maintenance is always easier than combating health care issues.  Don’t let the prospect of long summer days with no activity defeat you.  Make a plan and make it fun.  As always, before starting any weight loss program, consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity.  Find out if there are any issues that would affect you or your children participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Personally, I grew up in Texas and one of the things I most appreciate about North Carolina is the geography.  Texas is such a huge state that it literally takes days to get from the Gulf of Mexico to the greener landscapes of the Panhandle or the drier, desert climate of El Paso.  Residents of NC, however, don’t have the same problem.  We can enjoy the cool beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and then drive but a few short hours to enjoy the warm waters of the Crystal Coast.

In fact, this spring you don’t even need a gym to get moving and improve your health.  North Carolina has some of the best hiking trails in the United States so take advantage of those mountains.  When the summer heat becomes too much to handle, plan a day or two in the mountains where you can walk and hike with ease, while enjoying breathtaking views.  Walking and hiking are an excellent source of cardiovascular exercise and will help keep your heart healthy all year long.

Or if you prefer, head down to the ocean.  For more strenuous exercise, go surfing or paddle boarding.  Both of these water sports engage all of your muscle groups and will help build both strength and agility.  For a more relaxed approach, go jogging or take a walk on the beach.  Walking or running in the sand is a moderately strenuous exercise that can build muscle strength and endurance.  Beach exercise is not only fun and relaxing, it is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while taking in the sun and surf.

The main thing to remember this spring is don’t get stuck indoors!  There are so many benefits to outdoor exercise and so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of North Carolina.  Of course, before starting any weight loss or exercise program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity.  Find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands the benefits of preventive care and taking care of your physical health and mental well-being.  Discover why it pays to be a Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC member.  For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

The number one cause of spring allergies is pollen, and if you live in North Carolina, you probably knew this already.  Every year, porches, cars and driveways are literally covered in a dusty yellow layer of annoying pollen.  Basically, pollen consists of tiny grains that are released into the air by trees, grasses and weeds and believe it or not, pollen actually serves a purpose.  It is vital for the fertilization of other plants, which is what makes spring so verdant and beautiful.  However, when pollen grains get into the nose of someone who is susceptible to spring allergies, it can cause serious trouble in the immune system, which sees the pollen as foreign invaders and releases antibodies.  Antibodies are the things our bodies produce to attack allergens and this leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood stream.  Histamines are what ultimately trigger that runny nose or itchy eyes.

As you may well know, the higher the pollen count, the greater the suffering for those susceptible to spring allergies and pollen can travel for miles.  Most local weather channels actually make a note of the pollen count in your area during the daily forecast, which may help you determine how symptomatic you are going to be that day.  Allergy symptoms are especially high on windy days as the pollen travels through the air further and faster and the pollen count is usually highest in the morning.  Inversely, rainy days can actually lower the pollen count as the rain washes away the allergens.  Perhaps for allergy sufferers, enjoying an occasional spring rain is in order as it can offer some well needed relief.

The most common symptoms of spring allergies include runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing and dark circles underneath the eyes (possibly because it’s harder to sleep when you are coughing and sneezing).  Although it is impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in a place where trees and grasses abound, you can ease your symptoms by avoiding your main allergy triggers, such as mold or pollen.

Some ways to combat spring allergies include:

• Staying indoors whenever the pollen count is high
• Keeping your doors and windows closed during spring months to keep allergens out of your home or car
• Cleaning air filters in your home and keeping surface areas clean where pollen may collect
• Washing your hair after going outside
• Vacuuming at least twice a week; however, you may need to wear a mask when you vacuum because vacuuming can stir up pollen and other allergens trapped in your carpet

Keep in mind that although spring allergies are not particularly dangerous, they can trigger more serious conditions such as asthma.  If you are suffering from allergens, it may be time to take advantage of your health plan and see your health care provider.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC is committed to the health and wellness of North Carolina residents, which is why with a BCBSNC health plan, visiting your doctor is easy and affordable with preventive care services covered at 100%.  If your allergies are causing other more serious side effects, don’t wait to see your primary care physician.

Although spring is one of the loveliest times of year, it can be a drain on the health of those suffering from spring allergies.  Keep in mind, however, that despite the pollen in the air it is important for your health to stay active.  Even if you have to take your walk in the rain, don’t let spring allergies keep you trapped indoors.  This spring, combat your allergy symptoms while still taking time to enjoy as much of the beautiful weather as possible!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

WebMD Medical Reference

And believe it or not, the sun is good for us, providing our bodies with essential vitamins and nutrients that help us function better.  Despite the negative press the sun has received in recent years, sunlight has many benefits.  For one, sunlight increases the oxygen content in human blood, enhancing the body’s capacity to deliver oxygen to tissues efficiently.  Sun exposure has also been known to help cure depression and related conditions, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), that come from sunlight deprivation.  In addition, the sun provides our bodies with Vitamin D, a vitamin known to increase bone health and even reduce the risk of certain cancers!

Even with all the good the sun does our bodies, however, there can be no denying that overexposure to the sun’s rays can be hard on the skin.  Known to increase the signs of aging and also for causing certain kinds of skin cancer, the sun is a pleasure we need to partake of wisely.  Luckily, research has shown that most skin cancer can be prevented.  Avoiding midday sun (from 10 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon) is one way to limit skin’s exposure to the strongest sunlight, without completely eliminating sun from your schedule.  Also, if you know you are going to be out in the harshest part of the midday sun, wear protective clothing such as a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses with UV ray protection and loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.

Younger children, especially, need to be sure their skin is protected from the sun.  Some research suggests that most of the damage done to our skin happens before the age of 20 so it’s important to start young.  Babies under 6 months should rarely be in the direct sunlight and never during midday rays.  Also, babies and children should use a sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or above to make sure their very sensitive skin is protected.  Lip balm with an SPF of 30 or above is also a great way to protect your lips from getting sunburned or developing cold sores.

Remember that the best plan is to never allow your skin to become burned by the sun’s rays, but if you do happen to get a sunburn, keep in mind that skin healing from a sunburn is sensitive to more damage from the sun so be especially cautious to care for already overexposed skin.  Tanning beds are also never a good idea.  Artificial tanning devices can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer without providing any of the benefits we receive from natural sunlight.

The sun is shining and we are the first to admit we love it!  A good plan of action is to maintain a balanced approach to sun exposure, enjoying the benefits of being in the great outdoors without letting your skin be overexposed.  As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina believes strongly in the benefits of preventive care maintenance.  Your skin is your body’s largest organ so make a plan to protect it while soaking in the sunlight!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Benefit No. 1:  Exercise Controls Weight

Weight is really a fairly simple formula of calories in and calories out.  Exercise helps prevent excess weight gain and allows for weight loss because physical activity burns calories.  More intensive activities, such as running or swimming burn more calories, while less intensive activities such as walking burn less.  Nevertheless, all activity helps!  Even small adjustments in your routine, such as taking the stairs instead of an elevator, can make a big difference and you don’t have to set aside hours of your day.  A twenty minute brisk walk daily can have a big impact on weight control and there are many exercise routines you can do right in your own home.

Benefit No. 2:  Exercise Combats Health Conditions and Diseases

Exercise increases blow flow, which in turn reduces your risk for cardiovascular diseases.  Physical activity boosts HDL or “good” cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides, which can help prevent heart disease and high blood pressure.  Studies have shown that maintaining a regular exercise routine can help prevent or manage a wide variety of health related problems, including certain types of cancer, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and even depression.  If you want to live longer, exercise is perhaps the most important thing you can do.

Benefit No. 3:  Exercise Improves Mood

We all have mood swings, which is a natural part of being human, but did you know that a gym workout or a nice long walk can actually help improve you mood?  Physical exercise stimulates not only your body, but also your brain, releasing chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed.  When you exercise regularly, you may also feel more confident in your appearance, which can boost self esteem and an overall sense of well-being.

Benefit No. 4:  Exercise Boosts Energy

If you find yourself feeling exhausted or unable to complete daily chores or responsibilities energetically, you may need more physical activity.  Improving muscle strength and boosting endurance, exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently.  When your body works better, you have more energy to meet the demands of daily life.

Benefit No. 5:  Exercise Promotes Better Sleep

It may seem counter-intuitive, but if you are struggling to either fall asleep or stay asleep, regular exercise can help.  Because your body will be more tired, you may find you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper than you ever have before.  Although you want to avoid exercising too close to bedtime as this can actually increase your energy level, a routine of physical activity can improve your sleep immeasurably.

Benefit No. 6:  Exercise Puts the Spark Back in Your Sex Life

This is straight from the Mayo Clinic, so it must be true.  Regular physical activity can leave you feeling energized and looking better, both of which may have a positive effect on your sex life.  According to the experts, exercise “can lead to enhanced arousal for women and men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than are men who don’t exercise.”

Benefit No. 7:  Exercise Can Be Fun

There are many ways to make exercise fun.  A hike through the woods or rowing a boat across a lake are great ways to enjoy the outdoors and engage in joyful experiences.  Use exercise to connect with family or friends in a social setting by playing a game of volleyball, going paddle boarding or skiing down the slopes.  Joining a soccer team or participating in a water aerobics class are great ways to meet new people and increase your circle of friends, while improving your health.  As the Nike slogan says, “Just Do It!” and if you find you don’t enjoy what you are doing, try something new.  You are sure to find an activity that suits your lifestyle.

Bottom line is:  Exercise is vital for health and mental well-being and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a proud supporter of preventive health care! As a general rule of thumb, aim for about 30 minutes of physical activity a day.  If you have specific weight loss goals in mind, you may have to exercise more, but always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regime.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.