Expectations to host the perfect holiday party and purchase the perfect holiday gifts can cloud what the holiday season should truly be about. The holidays should be a time for giving, expressing gratitude and bonding with loved ones. A 2023 Harris Poll found that 41% of people experience an increase in stress between November and January compared to other points…
When buying gifts during the holiday season or any time of year, it is important to keep a child’s safety top of mind. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were more than 200,000 emergency department visits for toy-related injuries in the United States in 2022. Nonmotorized scooters accounted for the most injuries for all ages. Before checking…
According to a YouGov survey of more than 1,100 Americans, roast potatoes take the No. 1 spot for the most popular holiday dish, followed by mashed potatoes and turkey. The holiday season often brings an abundance of indulgent foods. While it’s OK to enjoy your favorite foods, it’s a good idea to mix in nutrient-dense and vegetable forward options with…
Pressure to find the perfect gifts can contribute to a lot of stress around the holidays. Shopping can get expensive in a hurry, and store-bought gifts lead to waste created by the packaging and transportation of resources. Each year, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, Americans throw away 25% more waste, amounting to an extra million tons of trash and waste. Consider…
The skin care market in the United States is about $24 billion a year and continues to grow. From masks to retinol to eye creams to serums, there are many products to choose from. A daily skin care routine can be protective for your skin and overall health, but choosing the wrong products can cause skin irritation and damage. Learn…
Since its introduction to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary in 2007, the pre-Thanksgiving party with chosen family known as “Friendsgiving” has gained popularity. Friendsgiving has become an annual tradition for many, a time to gather with friends and share a festive meal before the whirlwind of family holiday dinners begins. While turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes are often the stars of the table,…
In the early days of the pandemic, physicians recognized that people living with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, might be more susceptible to severe illness from Covid. Now that the virus has been in existence for a few years, the medical community has garnered enough data, time and experience to conduct more research on its effects. Recently, researchers found…
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, many Americans find comfort in seasonal beverages. While these drinks can be a treat, they often come with excess ingredients that can negatively affect your health if consumed frequently. In fact, an average 16 oz. pumpkin spice latte contains 390 calories, 9 grams of saturated fat and a whopping 50 grams of sugar,…
As Halloween approaches, spooky décor fills neighborhood lawns and children eagerly anticipate the thrill of trick-or-treating. Whether going door-to-door or attending a party, candy is synonymous with Halloween. Between the sweets, it can be a good idea to add in nutrient-dense recipes and talk to children about healthy behaviors around candy. Here are some tips: Halloween is one day out…
Diet culture has made many reluctant to consume pasta. However, a 2020 study found that in general, pasta eaters had better diet quality compared to those who avoided it. Most pasta is primarily made from durum wheat semolina, providing a significant source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Whole grain pasta offers additional benefits, including higher fiber content, vitamins and minerals.…
Pumpkins are in season for eating and decorating in October, drawing many families to Michigan’s many pumpkin patches. In 2022, Michigan generated $16.4 million from 93.1 million pounds of pumpkins, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture. A single cup of pumpkin provides seven grams of fiber to promote a healthy gut and aid in digestion. Its bright orange color brings…
More than 20 million Americans, which is more than 8% of American adults, have dealt with at least one major depressive episode. There are connections between diet and mental health. The relationship between diet and mental health can be bidirectional, meaning each affects the other. Eating a healthy and well-rounded diet can improve mental health and make mental health obstacles easier to…
Nearly 1,500 people in Michigan died by suicide in 2022, resulting in a suicide death rate of 14.4 deaths per 1,000 in the state. Of these deaths, 78% were men and 56% were firearm-related, according to the Michigan Suicide Prevention Commission’s 2024 annual report. Suicide prevention should be a priority for all Michiganders. Everyone can take part in suicide prevention by…
There are more than 30 million cases of foodborne illness annually in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many of these cases are preventable with proper cooking, handling and storing practices. Learning proper food preparation practices and getting rid of unhealthy habits in the kitchen can prevent food poisoning and safety issues. The importance of preventing foodborne illness…
Apples are Michigan’s largest fruit crop, producing more than 900 million pounds per year, according to Michigan State University Extension. An apple, high in fiber and polyphenols, may keep the doctor away. Research has associated nutrients in apples with lower risks of obesity, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. The high fiber content helps regulate digestion and maintain a healthy weight, while polyphenols—natural compounds with…
