About 25% of school-age children have a visual impairment. As the start of the school year approaches, many families are busy buying school supplies, scheduling haircuts, and visiting the doctor for an annual physical. It may be a good idea to add another appointment to the list: an eye exam. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends children have their vision screened at least…
Skin cancer – the most diagnosed cancer in the United States – is most often caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. According to the World Health Organization, overexposure to UV radiation was responsible for 1.2 million new cases of non-melanoma skin cancers and 325,000 cases of melanoma in 2020. Melanoma is a life-threatening malignant skin cancer. Sources of UV radiation include…
“Shark Week” is an exciting time for marine enthusiasts and television viewers alike. As you settle in to watch shark documentaries and captivating underwater adventures, it’s likely snacks are part of that equation. Here are some sea-inspired snacks for a sharkcuterie board – sharkcuterie, get it? – to enhance your viewing experience: Seaweed Snacks Crispy seaweed snacks are low-calorie treats…
Cherry tomatoes are growing in full swing in Michigan. These juicy fruits come in many colors and varieties, but all have a few things in common – they’re all packed in lycopene, vitamins A and C, and fiber. Cherry tomatoes taste most sweet at their peak summer ripeness, so it’s best to take advantage of them at this stage –…
Did you know that Michigan is a top producer of a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, tart cherries, blueberries, asparagus, and cucumbers? During the summer, the state’s climate is ideal for enjoying locally grown produce that is picked at its peak ripeness. In fact, fruits are sweeter and vegetables are more tender when they are in season.…
Summer picnics are a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, whether at a nearby park or by a river. Relaxing on a blanket while eating a meal is a great way to connect with nature. Kids can have fun running around, exploring nature, and taking a break from screens. Don’t forget to check out our surprising picnic must-haves for your next…
It’s no Fourth of July celebration without fireworks, parties, and food. The National Retail Federation reports that Americans spent around $7.7 billion on food last year to observe Independence Day, with the top food being hot dogs. Although it’s fine to indulge in hot dogs and chips, it’s important to ensure there are also healthy options available on the spread. From grilled sliders…
It used to be that those who made very specific meal orders in restaurants – asking that certain items be left out of a dish or served on the side – were perceived as picky eaters. These days, awareness of common dietary preferences, restrictions, and allergies is increasing. At times, people may find it challenging to express their dietary limitations…
A sprinkle of herbs adds freshness to dishes in cultures around the world. Possessing the colors and qualities of leafy greens, herbs often offer a similar nutrient profile. Herbs like parsley, mint, basil and cilantro are rich in vitamins A, C and K. In fact, a single half cup of parsley offers an impressive 547% of the daily recommended intake…
It’s no secret Americans love grilling outside. Whether it’s a steak, marinated chicken, a thick-cut fish filet or sliced veggies, grilling is part of our mealtime DNA. Industry data shows more than 70% of all U.S. households own a grill. While preparation is key to a tasty meal, mistakes in the process can cause cross-contamination that can lead to illness.…
Salads are often associated with being bland and boring, but in reality, they can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet. Typically made up of a variety of vegetables, fruits, and sometimes proteins, salad ingredients often provide a wide range of health benefits. Leafy greens are high in vitamins C and K which help support healthy skin, the…
The arrival of a new baby brings many challenges. First-time mothers have to learn how to provide around-the-clock care for a newborn while managing their own physical and mental health as they recover from labor and delivery. The first three months of a baby’s life are often thought of as the “fourth trimester,” as mothers must be so closely connected…
When you have kids, one thing that’s certain is that doctor visits will be a prominent part of your lives. Given the fact that you may have a busy schedule, as most adults do, it’s a good idea to make the most out of every single doctor’s visit that you go to with your kids. Read on to see how…
Mother’s Day is a special occasion where we honor and celebrate the amazing women in our lives who have shaped us into who we are today. Brunch is a popular way to celebrate this day whether dining at home or at a restaurant. If you’re taking the home route, consider serving up mocktails that can be enjoyed by everyone, including…
Tacos really are for everyone – handheld, no fuss, and easily customizable. In fact, an estimated 4.5 billion tacos are consumed each year in the United States. As tacos are of Mexican origin, they’re a staple item on Cinco de Mayo, the popular Mexican holiday which commemorates Mexico’s victory over France in the state of Puebla in 1862. In the U.S., the holiday…
