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…
Kids across the country are packing their backpacks and lunch bags. It’s a great time to bring attention to the importance of fueling kids with healthy foods and establishing nourishing snacking and mealtime habits ahead of the school year. Snacking can provide an energy boost and extra nutrients to help fuel growing minds and bodies. But not all snacks are created…
Healthy foods are advertised less than 3% of the time in comparison to their junk food counterparts, and food and beverage companies spend about $2 billion per year on marketing that targets children. These ubiquitous messages make it more of a challenge for parents to model healthy behaviors for their children. However, there are behaviors parents can model at home to help…
Labor Day is the unofficial last day of summer and a chance to enjoy outdoor grilling before the cool temperatures set in. It’s a perfect time to gather with friends and family, celebrate the end of summer and enjoy some delicious food. This Labor Day, elevate your menu with these vibrant and nutrient-dense recipes featuring seasonal produce like corn and…
This crispy and fresh salad is served with a flavor-bursting dressing of herbs, lime, chili and more. A key component of the dressing is fish sauce, a staple ingredient in Thai cuisine that bring umami and depth to sauces and dressings. Ideally, the dressing ingredients are pounded in a mortar, but this recipe features a shortcut version that can be…
Raspberries are in-season in August and because their shelf-life is short, it’s best to take advantage of them as soon as they’re picked. Raspberries are the richest fruit source of fiber, serving up 8 grams in just a 1-cup serving. Whether you spread that out as a snack or topping a yogurt, a cup provides about a third and a…
Sharing meals is a great way to spend more time with family and friends. There are multiple health benefits associated with sharing meals. These benefits include improved eating habits, reduced stress and tension, improved self-image and weight in kids and improved family relationships. Better family relationships Time spent sharing meals provides an opportunity to converse and share stories about the…
Going back to school in the fall means getting back to sports for many children and teens. More than 3.5 million childrenages 14 and younger get hurt annually playing sports or participating in recreational activities, so focusing on safety when getting back into sports for the fall should be a top priority. Properly preparing for fall sports during the summer months…
