Make meals more festive with a unique fall ingredient

2020-10-29T11:01:01

(BPT) – Looking for new ways to elevate fall favorites? Add a ruby red pop of color and sweet burst of flavor to your dishes with a unique seasonal ingredient: pomegranates. Known for their sweet taste, brilliant red color and antioxidants, pomegranate arils, or seeds, bring a touch of sweetness that elevates savory and sweet recipes like no other ingredient.

The good news is, you don’t have to go through the hassle of opening a pomegranate and removing the arils yourself — POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils make enjoying pomegranates easy with their convenient ready-to-eat packages. Available October through January, POM POMS are offered in an 8-ounce cup for cooking or baking, or a 100-calorie 4-ounce single serving for easy snacking. Because they’re straight from fresh pomegranates, POM POMS are a good source of fiber and are known for their antioxidant goodness.

Here are some fun ways you can use pomegranate arils on your table this fall.

1. Brighten up your breakfast

Adding pomegranate arils to typical breakfast fare like oatmeal, yogurt or smoothies gives morning meals the flavor and touch of healthiness they deserve. How about sprinkling onto a slice of peanut butter covered toast? Breakfast will never be the same with these juicy morsels.

2. Transform salad or grain bowls into festive delights

The saying goes you eat with your eyes first, so brightening up your dish with pomegranate arils’ ruby red color will instantly make your lunch or dinner appear even more tempting. Try tossing them into salads, grain bowls or guacamole! Whether you’re creating a weekday or special occasion meal, using POM POMS in the dish or as a garnish will instantly make it pop, while adding a healthy burst of antioxidants and fiber.

3. Wow your family with delicious meatless meatballs

These meatless “meatballs” have plenty of rich flavor, thanks to the warm spices and refreshing pomegranate taste. Serve as an appetizer or atop spaghetti squash for a meal the whole family will love!

Meatless Meatballs with POM Harissa Sauce

Prep time: 50 minutes; Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Meatball Ingredients:

1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup onion, finely chopped
3/4 pound eggplant, diced 1/4 inch
1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 cups toasted walnuts, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup POM POMS™ Fresh Pomegranate Arils

Sauce Ingredients:

1 cup POM Wonderful® 100% Pomegranate Juice
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
2-3 tablespoons harissa
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Plain yogurt for serving
POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils for garnish
Extra flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Make meatballs: Heat oven to 350 F. In bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, cinnamon and cumin. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, eggplant and salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in walnuts, garlic and tomato paste.
3. Transfer half the eggplant mixture to food processor and blend until smooth. Add back to eggplant mixture. Stir in breadcrumb mixture and egg.
4. Generously coat hands with oil or water and form mixture into 24 1-and-1/4-inch balls. Place on baking sheet 1/2 inch apart.
5. Bake until cooked through, 25-30 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, make harissa sauce: In medium saucepan boil POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice over medium high heat until reduced by half, 12-15 minutes. Whisk in tomato sauce, harissa, cumin and ginger. Let cool slightly.
Top meatballs with POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils and parsley. Serve with harissa sauce and yogurt.

4. Boost the holiday factor in drinks and desserts

Sprinkle bright red pomegranate arils in your cocktails, mocktails or punch to create extra-cheery holiday beverages you can feel good about. They add flavor and visual flair, even to simple mugs of cider or glasses of champagne. Garnish basic desserts with pomegranate arils to transform them into a celebration.

Find more recipe inspiration using POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils at POMWonderful.com.


5 ways to reinvent your scrambled eggs

2020-10-29T09:31:01

(BPT) – Easy to make, packed with nutrients and great for the entire family, scrambled eggs are a breakfast staple in households across the country. While the classic scramble is a great go-to, these days you might be looking to jazz things up a bit. You can excite taste buds with interesting additions, nutritious upgrades and simple twists on traditional scrambled eggs. Co-host of Food Network’s “The Kitchen,” and season seven winner of “Food Network Star” Jeff Mauro reveals five ways to bring your scrambled eggs to the next level.

1. Experiment with dairy ingredients

Many people add milk to eggs when mixing to create a fluffy, scrumptious scramble. However, you can get creative in the kitchen by changing up the dairy in your eggs to discover new and tasty results. For example, try half-and-half or cream for a richer scramble. A dollop of plain yogurt, sour cream or mayo adds a touch of zing. Cheese is another awesome addition, and you can go beyond a sprinkle of shredded cheddar to try cream cheese, mascarpone or cottage cheese for a delicious, filling breakfast.

2. Add veggies, herbs and spices

Scrambled eggs are a great base that is completely customizable for what you’re craving that day. Chop up fresh veggies like peppers, onions and tomato. Short on time? Add some salsa. For fresh flavor, add chopped herbs such as dill, thyme or rosemary. Want bold flavor? Try adding curry powder or reach for seasoning mixes such as Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning blends. You might even try a dash of condiments and other extras like mustard, Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.

3. Use superior eggs for better nutrition

While you can scramble any egg, not all eggs are created equal when it comes to nutrition. Stock your fridge with great-tasting Eggland’s Best (EB) eggs that contain more than six times the vitamin D and 10 times more vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs — two powerful micronutrients that can help shield your body from harmful bacteria and support a healthy immune system. What’s more, EB eggs also contain 25% less saturated fat and more than double the omega-3s and vitamin B12. A better egg equals a better recipe.

4. Leftover transformation

With some simple tweaks, you can transform dinner leftovers into a satisfying scramble. Whether you’ve got leftover meat, greens or even too much pizza, you can serve up a tasty, easy breakfast thanks to last night’s meal. And another added bonus, it’s a great way to clean out the fridge and reduce food waste!

5. Go beyond the plate

Egg scrambles are great just eating as is, but when you add them into other foods and recipes, you really can shake things up. For example, add scrambles on top of your burger or sandwich. A chilled scramble can be a wonderful topping for a fresh salad instead of the traditional hard-boiled egg. Add it as a pizza topping any time of day. For an excellent egg sandwich you won’t want to miss, check out Jeff Mauro’s twist on an Italian-American classic pepper and egg sandwich:

Chicago-Style Pepper and Egg Sandwich

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 Large Eggland’s Best eggs, whisked
  • 8 slices of Sharp Provolone
  • 4 soft sub rolls
  • Hot giardiniera

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400.
  2. Heat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add in oil and peppers. Season with salt, pepper and granulated garlic. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Brush outside of sub rolls with a good amount of olive oil and place in the oven to lightly toast.
  4. Add butter to peppers and then EB eggs. Slowly stir and let the EB eggs set for about 20 seconds, then stir again. Repeat until scramble is just set but still a little shiny.
  5. Take bread out of oven and place two slices of cheese on the bottom. Top with a generous amount Eggland’s Best eggs and spoonful of giardiniera.


Actress and Entrepreneur JoAnna Garcia Swisher and Husband, Former MLB Champion Nick Swisher, Help Empower Allergy Sufferers to Take Control of Their Allergies

2020-10-28T07:01:02

(BPT) – If you suffer from bothersome environmental allergy symptoms, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are affected by allergic rhinitis, or hay fever—inflammation of the upper airways (nose, mouth and throat) that causes runny nose, congestion and sneezing. However, many allergy sufferers tolerate uncomfortable symptoms without seeking advice from a health care provider (HCP).

A recent national Harris Poll survey of over 2,000 adults in the U.S. shows[1]:

  • While over 70% have experienced environmental allergy symptoms, only about 30% have been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis or nasal allergies by a health care provider (HCP).
  • Nearly half of people surveyed with environmental allergies report that symptoms have a major to moderate negative impact on daily life, and more than half say allergies have affected performance at work and/or school.
  • About 75% of people surveyed discussed allergies with an HCP, but less than 20% have visited an allergist for an evaluation and treatment, and only about 10% have ever discussed allergy immunotherapy (AIT) options with an HCP, even though AIT can eliminate or significantly reduce symptoms over time.[2]

To help address these gaps, actress and entrepreneur JoAnna Garcia Swisher, currently starring in the Netflix series Sweet Magnolias, along with her husband Nick Swisher, retired MLB World Champion for the New York Yankees and current FOX Baseball analyst, and allergist and immunologist Payel Gupta, M.D., FACAAI, are joining #AllergyHomeFree as spokespeople to help empower allergy sufferers to learn more about how allergies are triggered, symptoms and treatment options.

“Nick and I have been suffering from environmental allergies for years. Our allergies are something we always have to manage. It’s especially hard when I’m filming outside for long hours on end,” said JoAnna. “We are excited to help educate and provide resources to fellow allergy sufferers to learn more about their allergies.”

Environmental Allergies and Treatment Options

Environmental allergies are caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to a normally harmless substance like pollen.[3] When someone with allergies comes into contact with an allergen, the body forms antibodies that trigger a chemical response, causing symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, congestion, or itchy, watery eyes.[4] In addition to seasonal allergies, which occur during certain times of the year and in certain areas of the country, many people have indoor allergies, such as to dust mites, which occur year-round.[5],[6] Especially during this time of year, where people are staying indoors more, people may experience symptoms related to house dust mites.

“Many people with environmental allergies suffer unnecessarily, and as this survey showed, they are quite impacted by their allergy symptoms in their daily lives,” said Dr. Gupta. “It’s important to be assessed by an allergist to determine what in the environment is causing the allergies. Based on the allergy’s trigger and severity of symptoms, an allergist can help identify what type of treatment option will be most effective.”

While people may opt for medications to control symptoms, there are also allergy immunotherapy (AIT) options that work naturally with the body to treat the underlying cause of allergies long-term. AIT trains the body’s immune system over time to stop attacking allergens, eliminating or significantly reducing symptoms. With AIT, small amounts of the specific environmental allergy trigger are introduced into the body so the immune system can slowly learn to tolerate them better.

Sublingual immunotherapy tablets (SLIT-tablets) are a form of AIT that are prescription medications taken daily.[7] The first dose is taken at the doctor’s office, and then the tablet is taken once daily at home.[8] Allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy, are another form of AIT, which have varying doses and regimens depending on the prescribing physician. They contain extracts individually mixed by an allergy specialist based on a person’s allergy triggers and are administered in the allergist’s office.

Take Control of Allergy Symptoms with #AllergyHomeFree

To learn more information about allergies and treatment options and explore interactive content and resources—including tools to track allergy symptoms, aid conversations with a health care professional and find an allergist in your area—visit AllergyHomeFree.com.

The free Klarify mobile app is also available for IOS and Android devices.

This article, AllergyHomeFree.com and the Klarify mobile app are educational resources provided by ALK, Inc.

References


[1] #AllergyHomeFree Survey, conducted by The Harris Poll in association with ALK-Abelló A/S and Green Room Communications. September 2020.

[2] Mayo Clinic. Allergy medications: Know your options. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy-medications/art-20047403. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[3] Mayo Clinic. Allergies. Overview. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases- conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[4] Mayo Clinic. Hay fever. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20373039. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[5] Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Rhinitis (Nasal Allergies). Available at: https://www.aafa.org/rhinitis-nasal-allergy-hayfever/. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[6] Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergy Facts and Figures. Available at: https://www.aafa.org/allergy-facts/. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[7] U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Allergen Extract Sublingual Tablets. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/allergenics/allergen-extract-sublingual-tablets. Accessed October 2, 2020.

[8] Gunawardana NC and Durham SR. New approaches to allergen immunotherapy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;121(3):293-305.


Beyond Morning Joe: Creative Coffee and Tea Recipes to Spice Up Your Day

2020-10-28T00:01:00

(BPT) – When is a cup of coffee more than a cup of coffee? When it becomes the start of something creative, as with the many recipes available on the JURA and Capresso blogs. The trend toward adventurous tastes combines with our love of coffee — and tea — to make your daily brew something special to enjoy and share.

A sweet treat that’s vegan, hip and trendy, White Chocolate Hazelnut Café au Lait with Oat Milk comes together in minutes with the Capresso froth Select automatic milk frother and any Capresso coffeemaker. A cup of brewed coffee is enhanced with frothed oat milk that’s whipped up with white chocolate chunks or chips and hazelnut syrup. The froth Select stands out for its ability to incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the frothing process, and any type of plant-based (or regular) milk can be used. Dust with powdered cocoa for a flourish of flavor.

Custom brew Coconut Boba Tea with the Capresso Iced Tea Maker, which brews directly into an 80 oz. glass pitcher. Boba Tea, also known as tapioca tea or pearl milk tea, is a sweet tea-based treat that originated in Taiwan and is now an international sensation. While the Iced Tea Maker is brewing the tea, from loose tea or tea bags, quickly cook Boba tapioca pearls. Then layer the pearls, honey or agave sweetener, iced tea and coconut milk (or milk of choice) in a glass and enjoy.

Coffee is great for cocktails too. JURA presents Creamy Kahlua, an enticing iced mix of espresso, Kahlua, cocoa powder and sugar. Designed for the coffee purist, a JURA automatic coffee machine creates a barista-quality brew — always freshly ground, not capsuled. The award-winning JURA line is known for its state-of-the-art technology and ease of use.

Cap off the day with a coffee-based dessert drink such as Espresso Naranja. Easy to create: Just cover the base of an espresso glass with chocolate orange sauce, and then prepare an espresso macchiato over it. The superior taste of the espresso — brewed in a JURA automatic coffee machine — is the signature ingredient of this beverage and more. JURA’s exclusive Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) ensures full flavor and aroma of espresso and ristretto, for harmonious balance with sweet notes of chocolate and vanilla.

More tasty coffee, tea and hot chocolate recipes are available at JURA and Capresso.


7 signs your water pipes are in trouble

2020-10-28T14:13:00

(BPT) – While spending more time at home, you’ve probably started noticing repairs you need to make. You may have even tackled a few projects to improve your home. However, there are some home improvements you might not consider, because they’re hidden until they reach their breaking point — like your home’s plumbing system.

You rely on the pipes to bring safe water into your home for cleaning, laundry — and drinking — every day. Unfortunately, you can’t usually tell something is wrong until they leak, creating water damage costing thousands of dollars.

The good news is, there are signs that indicate it’s time to repipe your home. And when you do it right, that one project can save thousands of dollars and lots of future headaches by preventing leaks, water damage — and unsafe drinking water.

Here’s what to look for.

1. Is your home over 50 years old?

If the original pipes weren’t replaced, repiping is a good idea — before large-scale water damage occurs. Older homes typically used galvanized pipes prone to corrosion, leaking and bursting.

If your house was built even earlier — around the 1920s — the pipes were probably made of polybutylene and/or lead. These materials are dangerous and should be replaced immediately. Polybutylene is highly prone to breaking and leaking, so it’s only a matter of time before a serious problem occurs. And lead seeps into drinking water, which can cause serious health problems for your family.

2. Do you have low water pressure?

When pipes contain rust or mineral buildup, it eventually restricts water flow into the house. By the time it affects your water pressure, it’s the result of years of buildup — a clear sign repiping is needed.

3. Have you had leaks?

Bigger problems start small. If you’ve welded or patched leaks in small sections of pipe, this can indicate your entire system is at risk.

4. Do you see a problem?

Stains, flaking, indentations or rust on the pipes signals corrosion. Corroding pipes may leak and should be replaced. Rusty pipes can also turn water reddish or brown, indicating the need to repipe to make your water healthy to drink.

5. Does your water taste or smell bad?

An unappealing smell or taste may also mean your water is unsafe, because of a breakdown of your pipes. It’s best to have them inspected immediately — and drink bottled water in the meantime.

6. Is it making odd noises?

If your plumbing rattles, clanks or bangs, this is a sign of a larger problem. You should have your pipes checked right away.

7. Does it run hot and cold?

If your shower quickly switches from icy cold to burning hot, corroded materials may have broken off inside the pipes and jammed the anti-scald device or valve regulating your water temperature.

The inspection

If any of these signs sound familiar, take action and get help. Each house is different, requiring a unique repiping solution. Professionals like the Uponor Pro Squad experts are exclusively trained on the multiple installation configurations and considerations that can arise in your home.

The Pro Squad experts do a thorough site analysis first, checking your home for signs of leaks, such as moisture, mildew, foundation cracks and a running water meter. They also conduct a water-usage review. Their inspection and recommendations allow you to be proactive and prevent problems before they occur.

The solution

Once the problem is identified, it’s vital to replace pipes with a more durable material. An innovative solution to repiping homes is using Uponor AquaPEX, a flexible polymer piping material that resists corrosion, pitting and scale buildup while also offering greater resiliency in freezing conditions. Flexible crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipe, like Uponor AquaPEX, lasts longer and also makes repiping less invasive. The pipe can bend around corners and fit into tight spaces without having to cut large holes in drywall.

Its benefits include:

  • Highest industry rating for drinking water safety
  • Faster, safer, easier installation
  • Flexible for fewer fittings and better system performance
  • Resists corrosion, pitting and scale buildup
  • Sustainably produced
  • Expands to minimize damage from frozen water
  • Backed by a 25-year transferable limited warranty

Repiping using PEX now gives you peace of mind by protecting your home and family from future water disasters, costly repairs and unsafe drinking water.

Find a Pro Squad expert near you at ConnectWithUponorProSquad.com.


3 unexpected ways to save time and money by building a deck during the off-season

2020-10-28T10:01:00

(BPT) – With temperatures cooling and leaves changing from golden yellow to deep auburn, there’s no denying that it’s the season of all things cozy and comfy. And as you begin to hunker down and bundle up indoors, the thought of embarking on a deck building project might not be top of mind.

While home improvement retailers position transitional months as “off-season” for outdoor projects, industry insiders know there are advantages to beginning deck construction once temperate weather days arrive. From scoring a deal on building materials to booking the most in-demand builder, here are three ways you can build your dream deck under budget and in record time this off-season.

1. Book best-in-class building professionals when they’re available

Since spring and summer are the busiest times of year for contractors and building professionals, you’ll have a better chance of booking the most in-demand deck builder in your community during transitional months. With summer projects wrapped up, workloads are naturally lighter. As a result, deck contractors have more flexibility in their schedules and can see a project through from start to finish much quicker than when they’re juggling multiple builds. They’ll also have a better chance of securing necessary building permits on a quick turnaround. With fewer permit applications in the queue for local government officials’ review, there should be fewer delays in the permitting process.

2. Take advantage of seasonal savings to stretch your dollar further

Contractors and decking brands alike offer homeowners plenty of incentives to take advantage of during transitional seasons. For example, building professionals may offer reduced rates to fill gaps in their schedules. Home improvement and decking brands, like most retailers, offer competitively priced products around the holiday season to reduce inventory and make room for new products. Taking advantage of these savings opportunities can substantially lower upfront costs associated with building a deck. The best part? Now you can splurge on stylish accessories like railing post caps or LED lights … and still stay within budget.

3. Preserve your beautiful lawn and then “spring” into landscaping projects

Deck construction can take a toll on landscaping, particularly during prime building season. In the spring, lawns tend to hold more moisture as the ground beneath begins to thaw. As a result, the ground can become increasingly soggy and is primed to muddy up shoes and retain unsightly footprints. What’s more, grass and flowers are just beginning to reemerge after winter. With increased foot traffic from builders coming and going, there’s also the risk of accidentally damaging budding flora. Rather than disrupt spring and summer’s bloom, schedule deck construction when your yard is already gearing up for its annual hibernation. Since many plants go dormant as the air cools and the ground freezes, it’s one of the best times to build a deck without significantly impacting landscaping. By the time warm weather rolls back around, you’ll be ready to tackle landscaping projects surrounding your beautiful new deck.

To create an outdoor space you can start enjoying now, consider building materials that will help extend your deck’s open-air season. For example, bamboo composite deck boards and light-gauge steel frames are resilient, durable and generally low maintenance.

“When composite decking is coupled with steel framing, it forms a durable deck system that’s well-equipped to host year-round and designed to last decades longer than lumber,” said Toby Bostwick, VP of Product and Brand, Fortress Building Products. “Composite deck boards provide benefits like slip- and moisture-resistance to not only keep deck systems looking great year-round, but also make them safer to enjoy during any season.”

If you’re feeling inspired to “deck out” your backyard and savor more days spent outdoors, take note of the time and money-saving ways to tackle deck construction during the off-season.


Restart Growth Now and Become Crisis-Proof for the Future

2020-10-28T07:31:00

(BPT) – Many U.S. businesses have been idling since the first quarter of this year — they’re still running, but due to closings, reduced demand and an atmosphere of uncertainty, they haven’t gained the traction they had originally planned or projected to experience this year.

In fact, organizations across a broad mix of industries have confirmed that due to the economic disruption caused by COVID-19, they’ve adjusted their forecasts and budgets, and are rethinking their approach to nearly everything from marketing and business development, to new products and services, pricing and supply chain management. A recent survey by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) demonstrates why such adjustments may be necessary, reporting that more than 53% of members were anticipating changes to their operations and 36% expected disruption to their supply chain.

While scores of B2B companies put their hypothetical cars in neutral, some sensed potential and seized the opportunity to “thread the needle” and accelerate. At present, countless other business leaders are asking themselves, their teams and consultants two crucial questions, “Is it possible to restart growth now?” and “What can we do to protect our business from the risk of future hardship?”

Keith Pigues, CEO and Founder of Luminas and co-author of Winning with Customers, advises, “The only way to answer these questions and be prepared for unexpected — yet inevitable — challenges is to know with certainty the answer to this all-important question: ’Do your customers make more money doing business with you?’”

It’s an interesting question. One that stops most business leaders in their tracks. However, Pigues and Luminas assert that you can know with certainty whether your customer relationships are healthy and mutually beneficial, or at risk. The first step is an internal appraisal — identifying an inhouse perspective on what’s truly driving customer value today and creating the most opportunity for future growth. Is it …

  • the right mix of product and services (at the right price),
  • good marketing and communications,
  • a sales team full of rock stars and exceptional customer service, or
  • skillful strategic planning to serve the right markets and customers?

Once you’ve pinpointed your “secret sauce,” it’s time to look outside the company and ask your customers for their point of view — invest in gathering their specific insights on what your company does that enables them to accelerate growth and profitability. Then, compare notes — how does your internal perspective match up to the customer feedback? By going through the rigor of this process, you’ll discover your company’s differential value and become better equipped to set priorities and make more confident business and investment decisions. Ultimately, by helping your customers realize success and achieve their desired outcomes (“make more money”), your company will reap the bottom-line benefits and establish long-term partnerships that will enable you to pivot more easily in the future when industry shifts or competitive challenges, economic downturns or global crises threaten to strike.

Disruptions like what we’ve seen in 2020 are unavoidable and the ongoing pandemic is undoubtedly causing changes and shifts in your B2B relationships. Therefore, it’s prudent for every supplier to take a fresh look at customer priorities; seek to understand their needs and learn the facts about what really adds value to their business. Doing so will help you to ReStart Growth and win with your customers now, and in a post-COVID economy.


A pediatric dermatologist shares ways to protect baby’s skin this season

2020-10-27T07:23:00

(BPT) – Seasons are changing, which means more than just swapping baby’s summer bonnet for a beanie. Cooler weather can also take a toll on their skin. You may start to notice dryness, irritation and itchiness on your little one, which can be a sign of ceramide depletion in the skin barrier, a common occurrence during the cooler months in all skin, including babies whose skin is still maturing. Because of the delicate nature of their skin, it is important to take special care by following a skincare routine that includes thoughtful steps and hydrating products to help replenish ceramides and repair the skin barrier.

“Compared to adult’s, a baby’s skin is actually 20 – 30% thinner, drier and more susceptible to water loss, which is why their delicate skin requires hydration and skin barrier protection to stay healthy and comfortable,” says Pediatric Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon Latanya Benjamin. “Ceramides are lipids naturally found in skin that help form the skin barrier.”

It is important to provide the daily care baby’s skin needs by using products with ceramides to protect against environmental irritants and regulate hydration, especially as the weather changes. Dr. Benjamin isn’t the only expert touting the benefits of this crucial skincare ingredient for babies and infant skin. In fact, she is one of seven experts on a panel of pediatric dermatologists who developed statements on the role that moisturizers with ceramides have on baby skin in a new study recently published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology titled, “A Consensus About the Importance of Ceramide-Containing Skincare for Normal and Sensitive Skin Conditions in Neonates and Infants.”

Benjamin wants to help all parents and caregivers by providing simple advice for the best daily skincare routine for babies that not only strengthens skin while it matures, but can also have long-term benefits into adulthood.

Daily baths are not necessary

Contrary to what many believe, daily baths aren’t necessary for your baby, especially in cold or dry climates that may irritate baby’s already dry, sensitive skin. To protect skin and retain natural moisture, give baths three times a week for 5-10 minutes with warm water.

Use gentle, hydrating cleansers

When washing, focus on the parts of baby that tend to get dirtiest. This includes the head, neck and parts covered by a diaper. Use a soft washcloth and gentle, fragrance-free cleanser made for baby’s sensitive skin, like CeraVe Baby Wash and Shampoo. This non-irritating, tear-free formula includes barrier-replenishing ceramides and hydrating hyaluronic acid for a gentle wash that doesn’t strip baby’s skin.

Follow baths with a lotion that contains ceramides

One of the best times to use a moisturizing product on your baby is right after bath time because you can lock in extra hydration provided by the water on the dampened skin. Since all babies have delicate skin, no matter their skin type, the use of lotions with ceramides is recommended for all babies in their daily care.

The aforementioned panel studied the vernix caseosa, the substance produced during pregnancy that utilizes ceramides to protect baby’s skin barrier, and found that using products with ceramides after a baby is born and the vernix caseosa is removed can help hydrate and protect their skin. According to that same study in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, using a ceramide-containing moisturizer, like CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Lotion, is not only beneficial to help keep neonatal and infant skin healthy, but it can also prevent dermatologic problems, like atopic dermatitis, from developing later in life.

Moisturize daily to replenish skin

Post bath time isn’t the only time to moisturize. Since the shift to colder weather can exacerbate ceramide deficiency and cause flare ups for skin conditions like eczema and itchiness, moisturizing throughout the day will help prevent dryness and irritation. Incorporating ceramide-infused products into baby’s daily care routine helps to restore the skin barrier and further protect their delicate skin from damage. Keep bottles in diaper-changing spaces for easy use or consider giving your infant a relaxing baby massage with lotion as part of a bedtime routine.

Go fragrance-free

From the lotions and cleansers you choose to care for your baby to the detergent you use to wash their little clothes, fragrance-free options are best, as added fragrances can often cause skin irritation. This is true for all sensitive skin types, and is especially important in the cooler months, when babies are wearing long clothes and more layers that touch their skin all day long.

“I like to encourage parents that with a few thoughtful steps in their baby’s daily care routine, like incorporating cleansers and lotions with ceramides, they can help keep baby’s skin healthy, hydrated and protected, no matter the time of year,” says Benjamin.


Plan for these college costs

2020-10-27T16:25:00

(BPT) – If your son or daughter is a high school senior this year, you’re probably in the midst of applying to colleges right now. There’s a lot for everyone to think about — where to apply, the steps involved in the application process — and of course, the finances.

This year things have certainly gotten more challenging. A recent College Ave Student Loans survey conducted by Barnes and Noble College Insights looked at how the pandemic has changed the approaches most families are taking to paying for college. Over half of the survey respondents (56%) reported that because their finances have been negatively affected, 58% of those families had to use their savings more than expected, with 43% of them putting off big purchases and 29% leaning on credit cards. Financial setbacks like job loss have caused many families to seek alternatives to help pay for college costs.

While you’re planning for your child’s education, it’s important to figure these additional costs into your overall financial picture. Paying for college is not just about tuition, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for additional expenses — and know your options for reducing those costs or covering them.

Room and board

Paying for a dorm room and meal plan is a big part of student expenses. For freshman year, some schools don’t allow students to live off-campus. Make sure to find out the rules for schools your son or daughter is applying to and discuss your family’s preferences.

Some students may choose to live off-campus and rent an apartment. Depending on the proximity to campus and the area, it can still be costly.

If room and board or off-campus housing isn’t covered by financial aid, those costs can be covered with student loan funds. And some students save money their first year or two by enrolling in a local college or university and living at home.

Textbooks and supplies

Books and supplies can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year depending on your area of study. You can use student loans to help cover the purchase of a computer, books, required class supplies, and school-related fees.

Research ways to save on books. Most schools offer used textbooks as an option in their college bookstores, or you can often find used textbooks online. In some cases, you can rent expensive textbooks. In many cases, e-books are much more affordable than actual textbooks.

Transportation

Consider the costs to commute to school every day — parking, gas, or public transportation. Don’t forget to factor in any trips home throughout the year that might require a train or airfare.

It’s essential to know the full cost of attending college when your family is making plans together. Adding these further costs to tuition, you may find that the grants or scholarships your child is offered, on top of federal student loans or work-study options they may be eligible for, will not cover everything for the school year. Unexpected expenses can also come up, such as unanticipated fees or supplies, or a roommate bailing on a shared apartment.

If your son or daughter needs additional funds, one option is getting a private student loan through College Ave. College Ave offers competitive rates, a simple 3-minute application, and great customer service. Families have choices about when to start making payments and how long to take to pay back the loan, making it easy for them to balance a monthly budget while minimizing the total cost.

To see how much your monthly bills could be upon graduation, explore tools like the College Ave student loan calculator to make sure the loan amount fits your family’s monthly budget.


5 things to know about having joint replacement surgery during COVID-19

2020-10-27T11:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re suffering from joint pain and considering a joint replacement, you’re not alone. Chronic, debilitating pain that requires joint replacement affects nearly one in four adults in the United States, according to the U.S. Bone and Joint Initiative.[1] But unfortunately, many people wait years to move forward with surgery, enduring significant pain and negatively impacting their lives.

This delay has worsened in the current climate of stress and fear of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, 48% of people reported they postponed elective joint replacement surgery due to fears and concerns stemming from COVID-19, according to a recent U.S. survey of 1,200 people comprised of joint replacement patients, candidates and their caregivers, conducted by Wakefield Research and commissioned by a leading medical device company Zimmer Biomet.[2] Informed by the results of this survey, Zimmer Biomet recently launched Don’t Let Pain Gain on You, an educational resource aimed at informing and empowering those living with joint pain to make informed decisions about joint replacement surgery in partnership with their healthcare professional.

Although joint replacement is typically considered an elective surgery, it is an important tool in restoring people’s mobility and helping to enhance their quality of life. If you are considering joint replacement surgery and feeling hesitant during the COVID-19 pandemic, here are five things to consider:

1. Quality of life

Relief from debilitating pain is the number one benefit of joint replacement surgery. “Unfortunately, I have many patients who are suffering greatly from joint pain but have canceled or delayed their planned joint replacement procedures due to concerns stemming from COVID-19,” says Dr. Mark Klaassen,* orthopedic surgeon. “While this concern is understandable, it becomes a quality-of-life issue. I do my best to encourage people to proceed as soon as they feel comfortable, so that they can achieve relief from chronic, debilitating joint pain and move forward with their life.”

Discussing all potential benefits and risks with your own doctor to determine the right time for you is important. Expectations and achievable level of pain-relief and mobility can vary depending on your specific pre-operative condition and activity level.

2. Talk to your healthcare professional about an outpatient procedure and digital health platforms

Ask your surgeon about your potential to have an outpatient surgical procedure so that you may be able to be discharged on the same day of surgery and recover at home instead of spending additional time in the hospital – which may be particularly appealing during the pandemic. Additionally, you can ask your healthcare professional about technological innovations in joint replacement surgery such as robotics and digital health platforms that are available in some locations, for appropriate patients. One such option is mymobility® with Apple Watch®** from Zimmer Biomet, a first-of-its-kind remote care management system that uses iPhone® and Apple Watch to facilitate a new level of connection between patients and their surgical care teams that is also intended to help minimize the need for unnecessary physical touchpoints.

3. Understand the safety protocols in place to help minimize exposure to COVID-19

If you are concerned about your safety at this time, it is important to realize that there are state mandated protocols and guidance in place to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure.[3] According to Dr. Klaassen, “Hospitals and surgery centers across the country are typically utilizing extremely stringent policies and procedures to help keep people safe. If safety concerns are holding you back, I urge you to discuss further with your healthcare professional as I personally don’t see this as a reason to further delay a necessary joint replacement procedure.”

Becky D., a mother and grandmother from Warsaw, Ind., and a patient of Dr. Klaassen’s, recently underwent two separate joint replacement procedures, in the middle of COVID-19—the first, in March 2020, was a total knee replacement and the second, in June 2020, was a partial knee replacement.

Becky reflects on her experience after her two knee replacement surgeries during COVID-19. “Overall, I found it to be a positive experience and I am glad I moved forward with it. I had some pain for a few weeks after surgery, and worked very hard with my rehabilitation exercises.” said Becky. “Two months after surgery, I am so relieved not to have that debilitating pain I had before surgery, and I am able to be more active again, going to my grandkids’ sporting events and ready to decorate for the holidays.”

4. Consider your caregivers

For many people suffering from severe joint pain, family members and caregivers are often a critical part of the process, so don’t forget to consider the impact that continuing to delay your joint replacement surgery could have on them. Data shows that caregivers of people with joint pain can face a decrease in their quality of life and an increase in stress as they bear added responsibilities or household duties.[4] In fact, according to Zimmer Biomet’s survey, 56% of caregivers wished their loved one would move forward with surgery more quickly even during the pandemic in order to relieve their physical pain and the negative impact on quality of life.[2] While caregiver responsibilities may increase during your recovery, completing your surgery might not only help you get back on your feet but also help relieve your caregivers of extra burdens.

5. Delaying joint replacement surgery can lead to additional pain

Zimmer Biomet’s survey also found that those who have postponed their elective joint replacement surgery due to COVID-19 related concerns report that their daily lives have been impacted, citing increases in pain (71%), mobility changes (58%), and worsening sleep (36%).[2] Talk to your surgeon about what’s right for you. Whether you’ve put off your joint replacement surgery or haven’t yet scheduled, now may be the time to take action to resolve your joint pain, so you can get back to enjoying your daily life.

If you have chronic, debilitating joint pain, consider taking action to address it. For more information, visit DontLetPainGain.com.

To learn more about Zimmer Biomet products such as ROSA Robotics and mymobility with Apple Watch, visit www.zimmerbiomet.com.

Results are not necessarily typical, indicative, or representative of all recipient patients. Results will vary due to health, weight, activity and other variables. Not all patients are candidates for this product and/or procedure. Zimmer Biomet is a medical device manufacturer and does not practice medicine; all questions regarding your condition and treatment must be directed to your surgeon. Only a medical professional can determine the treatment appropriate for your specific condition. Appropriate post-operative activities will differ from patient to patient. Talk to your surgeon about whether joint replacement is right for you and the risks of the procedure, including the risks of infection, implant wear, loosening, breakage or failure, any of which can require additional surgery. For additional information or to find a surgeon near you, visit www.zimmerbiomet.com.

* Dr. Klaassen is a paid consultant of Zimmer Biomet

** iPhone and Apple Watch are trademarks of Apple, Inc. mymobility can only be used if prescribed by a surgeon for patients with a compatible smartphone deemed appropriate for remote care.



[1] United States Bone and Joint Initiative. The Burden of Musculoskeletal Diseases in the United States. Available at: https://www.boneandjointburden.org/2014-report/ib2/chronic-joint-pain.

[2] Wakefield. Zimmer Biomet Joint Replacement Patient and Caregiver U.S. Perception Survey. September 2020.

[3] American College of Surgeons. COVID-19: Executive Orders by State on Dental, Medical, and Surgical Procedures. Available at: https://www.facs.org/covid-19/legislative-regulatory/executive-orders.

[4] Longo UG, Matarese M, Arcangeli V, et al. Family Caregiver Strain and Challenges When Caring for Orthopedic Patients: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med. 2020;9(5):1497. Published 2020 May 16. doi:10.3390/jcm9051497