Processed meats like deli sliced turkey and ham are sandwich staples and make for easy protein additions at breakfast and lunch. However, research continues to show that processed meats – high in sodium and preservative chemicals – are associated with chronic illnesses. In fact, a study found individuals who ate red or processed meat four or more times per week…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in four American adults sit for more than eight hours a day. This may not be surprising as our society continues to shift toward a more sedentary lifestyle. Though modern transportation has allowed for more flexibility in the distance between where you live and where you work, it has…
In the US, two-thirds of children’s calories come from ultra-processed foods. Too many cookies, crackers, snack cakes, pizzas, and ice cream are just a few items on the list of ultra-processed foods that can increase the risk for childhood obesity and health problems down the road. Starting healthy habits early in the year such as packing a healthy lunch and…
The research continues to show that shifting towards a plant-based helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and can help in maintaining a healthy weight. Furthermore, eating plant-based protein sources is one of the best ways consumers can make an impact on our declining environment. Grilled chicken and steaks are summertime favorites, but have you tried making grilled tofu for…
It’s no secret the pandemic has shifted family schedules – many parents are working from home, some children are attending virtual school and participating in fewer evening-time extracurricular activities and sports. A silver lining of the pandemic for some are family meals. In fact, research demonstrates a plethora of health benefits associated with consuming meals as a family. Along with…
The health benefits of a plant-based diet have been proven by research. But what do you do if you can’t imagine going without some of your favorite foods — like burgers? Fortunately, there are delicious meatless versions, like the Black Bean Burger. Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, iron, calcium and a slew of other nutrients. A cup…
Ever wonder why some restaurants have menus that change with the season? Even though customers might want to come back for their favorite strawberry dessert, their go-to restaurant may not offer it in the winter. The reason is that food grown in-season is picked at the perfect time after ripening on a vine or in the field, resulting in a…
Slow cookers are an excellent way to get children all ages involved in cooking. Combining ingredients, measuring out spices and chopping vegetables are some ways to spark your child’s interest in healthy food. One of the best ways to win the veggie war with kids is to empower them to like them in the first place. Allowing children to help…
While steaks and burgers are grill favorites, consider finishing off the meal with a healthy grilled fruit dessert. When fruit meets the flame, its sweet component allows for caramelization that develops complex flavors. Combined with Greek yogurt, grilled fruit desserts pack in fiber and antioxidants for a sweet and healthy treat. Fruits that are firm and not overripe taste great…
After a year of lock downs and restrictions, more Americans are looking to travel in 2021. In a recent poll, more than two-thirds of respondents indicated they did not feel comfortable traveling by plane – making road trips an increasingly popular option. With summer almost here and kids approaching the end of the school year – what better than to…
Many Americans are choosing to take car trips this summer, and Michigan offers great opportunities for camping. Even if a trip isn’t in the stars, families can make their backyard a campground on June 26, Great American Backyard Campout Day, or any day for that matter. Either way, being prepared is the key to a successful adventure. Camping and days of exploring are exciting but…
Most parents have seen television commercials that seem to poke fun at the fact that children don’t want to eat their vegetables. Picky eaters push peas around their plates – but don’t try them. Cooked spinach brings a grimace. Roasted beets are strange enough to make them raise their little eyebrows. These attitudes may seem funny, but when some parents…
After a year of lockdowns and restrictions, more Americans are looking to travel in 2021. In a recent poll, more than two-thirds of respondents indicated they did not yet feel comfortable traveling by plane, making road trips an increasingly popular option. With summer almost here and kids approaching the end of the school year, it’s the perfect time to explore this…
While mental health issues like depression and anxiety affect both men and women, studies have shown men are less likely to seek help or receive treatment. Research on this disparity often leads to the societal stigma of mental health. For example, a 2018 study from the World Health Organization found that the cultural stigma of mental illness affects men more…
Summer in Michigan provides an abundance of colorful produce to choose from and tons of farmers markets to find your favorites. Fruits and vegetables are an important part of to a well-balanced, nutrient dense diet. They are nature’s fast food and provide many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber for overall good health. The goal is at least five-a-day for better health, choosing…
