Rates of gestational diabetes are increasing among women of all racial and ethnic subgroups in the U.S. Gestational diabetes is relatively common and affects 2% to 10% of pregnancies – but can be connected to short- and long-term risks for women and their babies. The good news is for most pregnant women gestational diabetes is transient and can be safely managed under the care…
It’s that time again where we are clamoring to get the BEST gifts for our family members as well as friends. Therefore, grandparents, friends and family are always asking me “What should I get your children for Christmas?” There are so many great reasons why swimming lessons are the perfect gift idea for our family. Here are a few reasons why…
The National Pasta Association reports the average American consumes about 20 pounds of pasta each year. In recent years, consumers have been increasingly looking for low-carb alternatives to their favorite side dishes. Deciphering the marketing for these products can be challenging, making it difficult to choose the best option. For example, green colored spinach pasta does not necessarily translate to the nutrient value of…
Char-boo-terie, char-spook-erie…or scare-cuterie? A charcuterie board is a crowd-pleasing hostess offering, as it is customizable based on party size and offers a variety of options to please various taste buds. It also makes for a festive treat to bring to a Halloween get-together – because walking into a party empty-handed is frightening. Whatever you decide to call it, here are…
Autumn has arrived. Leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and with the season comes a fall harvest full of hearty crops. Butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash are only a few on the list of fall squashes offering plenty of nutrients including vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants. A versatile crop, squashes make their way into savory soups, cozy drinks and spiced desserts.…
October normally marks the start of the influenza season, when cases of the virus increase significantly and remain high until the spring. However, over the past two years there has been a lower number of flu cases than usual. This reduction is partially due to increased social distancing, mask-wearing and other measures in place to slow the spread of COVID.…
A whopping 98 percent of Americans eat pizza, and according to the Washington Post, approximately 3 billion pizzas are sold each year. It’s that go-to Friday night meal bound to satisfy a crowd with the various toppings, sauces and cheeses there are to offer. But after topping additions, delivery fees and tips – this can lead to a hefty bill. Next time you find…
The first month of life is the most vulnerable period for a child’s survival. Globally, 2.4 million newborns died in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. Most neonatal deaths, approximately 75%, occur during the first week of life. When newborns die it is usually because they suffered from conditions and diseases associated with a lack of quality care during birth…
Sometimes known as nature’s toothbrush, apples offer an impressive list of health benefits. Apples offer prebiotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The fiber and polyphenol content may reduce the risk for chronic conditions including heart disease, some cancers, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Apples are the most valuable crop in Michigan. According to the Michigan Apple Committee, our state…
It’s no secret that breakfast is the most important meal of the day for kids. Research shows eating breakfast is associated with better performance on math tests, vocabulary tests, demanding mental tasks and reaction to frustration. Life gets busy no matter who you are, and for many, whipping up a wholesome breakfast is at the bottom of the priority list on hectic…
