It’s late summer, the sun rises later and sets earlier, and the sun’s rays aren’t as strong as they are in the thick of the summer months, right? Wrong! The reality is, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays remain strong in late summer and early fall, so the risk of sunburn, premature skin aging and skin cancer is still present. Those end-of-summer days are prime time for accidental sunburns, particularly because people…
Choosing the right watermelon at the store or market can feel like a guessing game. From tapping the rind to checking the color, there are plenty of tricks people swear by. By paying attention to weight, color and texture, you can greatly increase your chances of bringing home a perfectly sweet melon. Here’s how to choose a watermelon that’s ripe and ready to enjoy: Look for the field spot One of the…
Each year in the United States there are 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths, and drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of one and four. Drownings happen in everyday settings, including in backyard pools, lakes, hotel pools and even during group swim outings where adults assume someone else is watching. Most drownings can be prevented. It’s critically important to understand how drowning happens and recognize the warning signs so lives can…
Metro Detroit families can enjoy a fun-filled summer without spending a fortune. From splash pads and outdoor concerts to beach days, fireworks, and free bowling, this guide features the best free and low-cost activities for kids of all ages. Discover local events, hidden gems, and affordable adventures perfect for making summer memories without breaking the budget.
July is cherry season in Michigan, and there may be no better time to celebrate one of the state’s most iconic crops. Cherries are packed with nutrients that support overall health. Both sweet and tart cherries provide vitamin C, potassium, fiber and a variety of plant compounds called polyphenols. These naturally occurring antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, processes that contribute…
When most people think about firing up the grill, they picture burgers, hot dogs and steaks. But grills are capable of so much more and can be a major cooking asset during the summer when it’s too hot to crank up the stovetop. Even novice grillers can expand their culinary options, find creative ways to meal prep and even prepare delicious drinks with these tips. This summer is the perfect time to explore just how versatile the grill can be. Thinking beyond traditional grilling Modern…
Summer in Michigan brings fresh, flavorful ingredients that can make healthy eating simple and satisfying. From juicy peaches and vine-ripened tomatoes to locally caught fish and fragrant herbs, the state’s growing season offers opportunities to build meals around foods harvested at their peak. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber that support overall health. Whether you’re planning a backyard dinner, heading to…
Father’s Day celebrations are often centered around the grill — burgers, steaks, ribs and classic cookout sides usually take center stage. Furthermore, dessert tables can sometimes be overloaded and sugar-packed treats that leave everyone feeling sluggish by the end of the meal. This year, consider adding a lighter, fresher option to the Father’s Day spread: grilled fruit desserts. Grilling fruit caramelizes its natural sugars, creating rich flavor and…
When the warm weather hits, most skin-protection advice starts and ends with sunscreen. But skin health isn’t just based on what’s applied topically – it’s also based on what we eat and drink. Research increasingly shows that nutrition can influence how the skin withstands sun exposure, inflammation, dryness and everyday wear and tear. Daily SPF remains one of the best ways to help protect skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage, but healthy skin habits do not stop there. The overlooked connection between nutrition and skin…
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer — and grilling season is officially on. While classic cookout fare often leans heavy, don’t miss out on bringing fresh, flavorful and nutrition-forward options to the table. Try one of these three recipes: Balsamic Soy Grilled Mushrooms Mushrooms naturally deliver a savory, “meaty” texture while being low in calories and rich in nutrients like B vitamins and antioxidants. Paired with…
When it comes to high-energy, outdoor family fun in Metro Detroit, TreeRunner Rochester is in a league of its own. While many know it for its incredible zip lines, this adventure hub on the Oakland University campus has evolved into a full-scale destination featuring everything from aerial net playgrounds to gem mining. I had the pleasure of bringing my family out for the grand…
The end of the summer is a popular time for friends and family to gather for drinks, but it’s important to be mindful of the risks associated with alcohol consumption. Consuming alcohol increases the risk of developing a host of physical and mental ailments, including at least seven types of cancer, according to the United States Surgeon General. Another system…
Roughly 4,000 people each year die from unintentional drowning in the United States, according to the American Red Cross. More children ages 1-4 will die from drowning than any other cause of death, and 87% of kids in that age range drown in home pools or hot tubs. While it’s crucial for parents to brush up on water safety to…
One of the many ways to take advantage of Michigan’s beautiful summer weather is to eat outside. Whether that means dining on a restaurant patio, enjoying a family meal in the backyard or planning a picnic with someone special, tapping into the physical and mental health benefits of eating outdoors should be on everyone’s summer agenda. Eating outside curbs mindless…
With Michigan’s farmers’ markets in peak season, there’s no better opportunity to celebrate the Fourth of July with ingredients grown close to home. Local markets are brimming with crisp vegetables, vibrant fruits and freshly caught Great Lakes fish — making it easy to create a festive and nourishing holiday spread. This year, consider swapping out some of the heavy, traditional…
