Children and teens have undergone considerable change and turmoil during the past two years. While student mental health was an existing concern, the pandemic exacerbated the problem and youth mental health has worsened, according to experts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than one in three high school students experienced poor mental health during the pandemic; and…
A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness to dishes in cultures around the world. Whether the curly or flat-leaf variety, parsley offers an impressive nutrient profile. Its bright green color points to its vitamin K content – offering a whopping 547 percent of the daily recommended intake to support blood coagulation and bone health. It also features quite a few antioxidants…
Michigan was the first state to have a roadside picnic table in the U.S. This hidden gem, located in West Michigan’s Ionia County, appeared in 1929. But the term ‘picnic’ dates back much further. The French-derived word originally stems back to 1794, 100 years after ‘pique-nique’ first appeared in the French language. Whether you’re visiting a roadside table for a road trip…
With long daylight hours and easy access to lakes, rivers and beaches, summer is a great time to be outside in Michigan. But it’s also the time when people’s skin and eyes are most vulnerable to the sun’s rays, which can make prolonged sun exposure dangerous. However, with a few safety precautions and a little planning, people can safely enjoy…
Nothing is more quintessentially American than firing up the grill for a big summer backyard barbecue or fixing a family dinner on the deck. Grill safety is important to keep in mind from properly using a hot grill to cooking meat in a way that prevents health risks. Here are some grilling mistakes to avoid to stay healthy and safe.…
More than 1 in 3 families in the US owns a dog, and most people consider their dogs as part of their family. Some people share their beds with their furry friends, while others let them have table scraps. Some dogs even find their favorite spot in the house during dinner time is under the table, just in case something falls. However,…
Eggplant, also known as aubergines, is a nutritional powerhouse. Its dark thick skin offers plenty of antioxidants to aid in warding off disease and fiber for healthy gut maintenance. When prepared, the veggie offers a meaty texture that combines well with flavors like garlic, tomatoes, chili, fresh herbs and more. Despite the meaty texture, it’s low in calories (20 calories…
Father’s Day is the unofficial kick-off to summer, synonymous with grilling and enjoying the outdoors. However, summer barbecue celebrations aren’t known for offering a ton of healthy options. From grilled fatty steaks, chips of all flavors, potato salads and sweets, those aiming to fill their plates with healthy options may find it challenging to do so. Many wing sauces are…
Seasonal farmer’s markets are springing to life in towns across Michigan. While some cities enjoy year-round markets, smaller seasonal ones open in May as the early growing season kicks into gear. Markets serve as community gathering spots, but more than that, they offer a way for people to buy fresh fruits, vegetables and other items while keeping their food footprint…
Asparagus is among the first of veggies to grow in Michigan’s spring. Though you generally catch asparagus in the produce section in a 10-inch bouquet, the plant can grow a whopping 6 feet length. This impressive crop makes for an excellent side item as it’s low in calories, rich in nutrients, and versatile. Just half a cup of asparagus satisfies…
