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Lawn and beyond: The powerful benefits of natural turfgrass

2024-05-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Healthy, natural turfgrass is more than just a pleasing addition to your yard and home’s curb appeal. Natural turfgrass is among the most resilient plant materials and provides many benefits that can improve your quality of life and the environment. There are countless turfgrass species and cultivars that are adapted to different climates and uses, and researchers from universities and companies like ScottsMiracle-Gro are driving innovation in this area as the environment and consumer needs continue to shift.

“Natural turfgrass is often misunderstood,” says Dr. Kelly Kopp, Extension Water Conservation and Turfgrass Specialist at Utah State University. “Misconceptions and misinformation have given it a bad reputation in some circles. But the truth is that natural turfgrass has the potential to foster a healthier environment and provides a multitude of benefits to the individual, local communities, and the planet.”

The benefits of natural turfgrass

According to Dr. Kopp, natural turfgrass can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainability. As a groundcover, it prevents soil erosion, slows the flow of stormwater, filters nutrients out of stormwater, and improves soil structure. Like all living plants, it also absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, trapping carbon underground and reducing atmospheric concentrations. It is also proven to lower atmospheric temperatures, which are increasing in certain areas known as urban heat islands.

Ecosystems also benefit from natural turfgrass. It provides a habitat for wildlife, from bees to birds to bugs, while also supporting the growth of native species of plants.

Growing natural turfgrass helps create a more resilient environment, too. During a storm, the roots stabilize soil, slowing water runoff and preventing erosion. They also act as natural water filters, keeping contaminants from entering local water systems. Dr. Matthew Koch, Director of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Grass Seed at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, explains that diverse varieties of natural turfgrass species are even more beneficial for rainwater absorption than one species alone. Dr. Koch explains, “Different natural turfgrass species have different root structures. Some are deeper and more extensive, while others are shallower. The diversity of roots helps to improve soil structure which reduces erosion and enhances water absorption.”

Along with the many ecological and environmental benefits, natural turfgrass is also beneficial for mental health and well-being. According to Scotts’ The Benefits of Lawn report, natural grasses and other ornamental plants can reduce noise levels by 20-30%,[1] creating a tranquil environment, which is especially helpful in loud, urban areas, and allows for outdoor play and recreation. Studies have also shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce cortisol levels, which are associated with stress.

Cultivating sponge cities with natural turfgrass

Natural turfgrass has an important role to play in cities, says Dr. Kopp, especially in large urban areas prone to storms.

Many urban areas face challenges when excessive rainfall overwhelms inadequate stormwater management systems. During a heavy storm, rain cannot infiltrate the concrete and asphalt that dominate traditional urban areas, and this causes flooding. Instead of building more impervious surfaces, Dr. Kopp says cities should utilize the water retention and infiltration properties that natural turfgrass provides by increasing its use in green spaces and cultivating “sponge cities.”

The idea behind sponge cities is fairly simple: increase green spaces using natural turfgrass and other plants, replacing impervious concrete and asphalt where possible, to reduce flooding. By increasing green spaces in cities and large urban areas with trees, plants, natural turfgrass and other green infrastructure, the landscape is better equipped to absorb rainfall and filter water efficiently. Similarly to the way grass prevents soil erosion during storms on your lawn, natural turfgrass and other green elements can reduce the burden on stormwater runoff systems and mitigate flooding. In fact, lawns can balance out 100% of runoff from roofs, drives, and streets that are connected to storm sewers and convey stormwater directly to streams or lakes (see Footnote 1).

Combating urban heat islands

Flooding isn’t the only challenge cities face that natural turfgrass can help solve. Because concrete and asphalt materials can’t absorb and release water efficiently, they can’t cool the environment. In fact, these impermeable materials retain a great amount of heat. Combined with high population densities, cities with large impervious areas can easily turn into heat islands.

Urban heat islands occur when cities experience warmer temperatures than nearby rural areas, which tend to be less developed and have more green space. In turn, those green spaces hold less heat and have grasses, trees, shrubs, and other natural features that keep the area cooler than nearby cities. According to Climate Central’s Hot Zones: Urban Heat Islands report, trees and vegetation, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2–9°F (1–5°C) in an urban area.[2]

Adding natural turfgrass can help reduce city temperature, preventing the urban heat island effect. Dr. Kopp explains that when natural turfgrass absorbs water through its roots, it moves through the plant becoming water vapor that is then released into the air through grass leaves, naturally cooling the environment. Whether in parks, greenways, or lawns, more natural turfgrass in urban landscapes can keep the environment cooler and reduce heat-related risks.

Transform your landscape for the better

From promoting sustainability and biodiversity to mitigating flooding and combating urban heat islands, natural turfgrass has much to offer.

Scotts, a leader in lawn care for more than a century and a half, leverages scientific research and qualified experts to educate and inform the public about the benefits of natural turfgrass while continuously innovating its products to adapt to the changing environment and homeowners’ needs.

To learn more about the power of natural turfgrass and how you can transform your landscape for the better, visit Scotts.com.


[1] The Scotts Company. (2002, July). The Benefits of Lawns: A Balanced Look at Published Information.

[2] Climate Central. (2021, July 14). Hot Zones: Urban Heat Islands.

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Honor Mothers by Improving Maternal Health Care

2024-05-01T15:31:00

(BPT) – On Mother’s Day, we celebrate moms across the U.S., and their journey to and through motherhood that can be beautiful, messy, and sometimes overwhelming. From gathering information about their care to scheduling appointments, and making decisions about their health and nutrition, moms have a complex journey to navigate — and this journey isn’t the same for everyone. The good news is that there are opportunities to help improve the experience and health outcomes for all.

Recognizing the need for innovative ways to improve maternal health, the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions researched how digital tools, like apps, patient portals, and health care websites, could improve the maternity journey by addressing health care disparities and improving access to care for all birthing persons.

Deloitte found that digital tools could boost maternal health empowerment, with nearly three out of four respondents using digital tools to manage specific health needs. Through digital tools, moms and families can be empowered with data, gain access to culturally informed care, and amplify community voices for greater transparency and accountability.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women. Deloitte’s research found that Black, mixed-race, and Hispanic respondents were twice as likely as White respondents to say that digital tools for maternal health did not meet their personal needs or align with their cultural backgrounds. Deloitte’s report included interviews with experts that suggest digital tools and resources appear to lack diversity in their design and may not have been designed with inclusivity and user experience in mind, which is critical to tool adoption and impact. Yet, across all races, Deloitte found that more than four out of five respondents are willing to be involved all throughout the development process for tools.

“Our research suggests that the use of digital tools has the potential to address gaps in access to care and empower moms to manage their health, which is critically important for improving maternal health outcomes in the U.S.,” said Kulleni Gebreyes, M.D., Deloitte U.S. Consulting Life Sciences and health care leader and U.S. chief health equity officer. “When we surveyed expectant mothers about their experiences with digital tools, we learned that these tools aren’t necessarily designed with all moms in mind.”

According to the Deloitte report, this could mean providing the information in different languages for comprehension, showing what conditions or risk factors might look like on different skin tones, or accounting for cultural stigmas related to certain topics like mental health. Designing health apps that are free from bias is essential to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need to improve their health.

Moms Know Best: 5 Ways to Improve Maternal Health

When it comes to making changes to improve maternal and children’s health, moms say it’s important for clinicians to listen and to understand their lived experience and develop tools with their unique needs in mind:

  • Making Tools Affordable: Nearly half of moms surveyed said reducing the cost of these tools is crucial. Technology companies are working on making apps more affordable and accessible for all moms.
  • Simplifying Your Choices: With so many apps and websites available, moms reported feeling overwhelmed. Resources are being developed to help moms choose the tools that best fit their needs. Imagine a central hub with clear reviews and recommendations of resources from other moms.
  • Information Made Easy: Nearly one in three moms surveyed felt stressed by the sheer amount of information available. Digital tools are being designed to be user-friendly and present information in a way that’s easy to understand and navigate. Think bite-sized chunks, clear visuals, and multiple language options.
  • Seamless Connections: A quarter of moms reported difficulty using different tools because they don’t “talk” to each other. The future is looking bright: Tech companies are developing ways for these tools to work together seamlessly, sharing data with your doctor for a more comprehensive picture of your health.
  • Listen to Moms: One in three moms surveyed said that they felt their health care teams did not frequently listen to their needs, believe what they were saying, integrate their preferences into their care plan, or treat them fairly and justly. Health care providers should understand people’s unique experiences and create care teams with shared cultural similarities or lived experiences, particularly for patients from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Health care executives and clinicians need to have bold action on addressing maternal health inequities. One preventable death is one too many. Executives can look at their data, identify gaps and prioritize improvement strategies.

This Mother’s Day let’s celebrate not just a single journey but the journeys of all moms with dignity, the best care possible, and with empathy. Together, we can help build a future where every mother feels empowered, supported, and heard on the path to parenthood. Healthy mothers can contribute to healthy communities, and that’s a reason to celebrate!

To learn more about Deloitte’s findings, read the full report: “Maternal health inequities persist. Can digital tools be part of the solutions?”

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Top 4 Reasons To Become a Mental Health First Aid Instructor

2024-05-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Have you experienced or known someone who has experienced a mental health or substance use challenge? Mental health conditions are common, manageable and treatable — and more likely than you may think. Almost half of people in the U.S. will experience a mental health condition at some point during their lifetime, with symptoms often emerging in childhood or adolescence. For individuals at any age, asking for help can be difficult, and many of us don’t know where to start.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a research-based training program that teaches adults how to recognize and respond to someone who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. At the core of the program are its Instructors, who have trained more than 3.7 million Mental Health First Aiders since the program was first introduced in the United States in 2008.

This May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a chance for you to make an impact in your community with evidence-based training, resources and tools. If you feel motivated to help members of your community navigate challenges to their wellbeing, consider becoming an MHFA Instructor. MHFA is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges, including how to recognize early signs and symptoms and provide initial support until professional help is available.

Who can become an MHFA Instructor?

No specific academic or professional credentials are required to become an MHFA Instructor. Applicants to an Adult or Youth MHFA Instructor training course must first hold an active First Aider certification in that curriculum. As an Instructor, you’ll play an important role in the lives of those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, largely because you teach and model how to offer help.

What do MHFA Instructors do?

Instructors are key to spreading MHFA. They teach the MHFA course with fidelity to the core program model and key messages. MHFA offers a range of comprehensive skills-based early-intervention courses, and achieving Instructor designation in MHFA’s community-specific courses allows you to tailor your teaching to the community around you.

Core responsibilities for certified Instructors include:

  • Teach an MHFA course at least three times per year.
  • Create, market and coordinate their classes, supporting learners along the way.
  • Tailor curriculum and discussions to their learners, including compiling a list of local resources for help.

Why should I become an MHFA Instructor?

Some people feel called to become Instructors to give back to their communities. Others feel passionate about mental wellbeing because of their experiences. Here are the top four reasons to become an MHFA Instructor:

1. Connect

MHFA Instructors bring members of the community together, giving them a sense of belonging, support and purpose.

As an Instructor, you’ll create a safe space and open dialogue with members of your community; deepen their understanding of their neighbors, friends, family and peers; and equip them with skills to go out into the world and strengthen their own communities. You’ll also be joining a built-in community of mental health champions and have an opportunity to connect with like-minded peers.

2. Advocate

Stigma — negative attitudes surrounding people with mental health and substance use challenges — can keep people from important life opportunities and getting help.

Studies have shown that MHFA training improves knowledge, reduces stigma and increases first aid actions toward people with mental health challenges. In your role as an Instructor, you’ll have the power to help change attitudes about mental health and substance use, and help create a more equitable, kind and understanding world.

3. Educate

There are many mental health services available across the U.S. However, 43% of U.S. adults who say they needed substance use or mental health care in the past 12 months did not receive that care. Why? It’s directly related to poor mental health literacy, including misconceptions about therapies and treatments.

As an MHFA Instructor, you can help others learn and understand more about common mental health and substance use challenges, and you can increase the likelihood that they’ll help someone. You’ll be able to access a library of expert-curated curricula and materials to help you through every step in your teaching journey. By building mental health literacy, you can make a difference in someone’s life.

4. Lead

MHFA Instructors empower other individuals to be the first line of support for a person in need and contribute to a healthier community. As an Instructor, you will also help us ensure that everyone in America has a close friend they can turn to before a mental health or substance use challenge becomes a crisis.

As an Instructor, you’ll also be able to gain opportunities and add a revenue stream, while increasing your mental health literacy and advancing your professional development.

How do I become an MHFA Instructor?

First, get certified as a Mental Health First Aider. Instructor training focuses on how to teach the curriculum. You’ll spend about three days in Instructor training, plus time spent doing pre- and post-work.

Once certified, you’ll have access to National Council webinars and annual conferences and be able to tap into an online community where Instructors can connect, ask questions, share resources and support each other.

Learn more about how you can become an Instructor and join an upcoming informational webinar.

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How colleges and universities can support adult learners navigating a changing world

2024-05-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – The world is always changing — for better or for worse — but the last few years have transformed society rapidly. Handling these changes in current responsibilities can be incredibly overwhelming and for some people, it has resulted in poor mental health.

This May, Mental Health America is observing Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental behavioral health issues, with the theme, “Mental Health in a Changing World.”

The month’s theme could not come at a more opportune time, given the prevalence of mental illness in the U.S. The National Council for Mental Wellbeing found that one in five adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2021. Of those adults, 47% received treatment.

While mental illness can impact anyone, adult learners who are balancing their personal lives with professional and educational pursuits need special attention.

Balancing life, school and mental well-being

Adult learners account for more than 24% of the 12.8 million enrolled students pursuing an undergraduate degree during the period, according to a survey by The Best Schools. These students face challenges not typically experienced by traditionally aged learners (18-24).

Oftentimes, adult learners must juggle their education and existing professional responsibilities, as more than two in three adult learners in 2022 were employed either full- or part-time while pursuing their degrees. Making time for education can be difficult, and some students are forced to choose between completing an assignment and receiving a steady paycheck.

Family obligations are another area in which adult learners differ from their traditional counterparts. The survey found that nearly half of older learners who enrolled in spring 2020 reported they had dependent children. Only about 3% of students 18-24 reported the same.

Managing school, work and family is challenging, and even more so in a changing environment. That’s why it’s crucial now more than ever that adult learners receive mental health support from their educational institutions.

How higher education institutions can help

Colleges and universities have an opportunity to play a pivotal role in the mental well-being of their adult learners.

“The role mental health support and academic resources play in the personal and professional success of adult learners cannot be overstated,” says Agnam Memeti, DeVry University’s chief enrollment and student support officer. “Higher education institutions must find ways to create an environment that fosters mental health awareness and promotes well-being for all students, including adult learners.”

The majority of DeVry students are at least 26 years old and more than half are parents supporting children and other dependents. With so many adult learners, it’s no surprise that the university is proactive in supporting adult learners’ mental health and well-being. DeVry provides them with academic support, mental health resources and flexibility scheduling that they require due to their busy lives balancing work, school and family.

For example, the DeVry CARE Formula demonstrates the institution’s commitment to student success. All students are provided with a personalized support team that includes a student support advisor and career advisor. Students can also receive support through the StudentLinc program, which offers an array of emotional well-being and life-balance resources and support whenever and wherever needed free of charge.

Through StudentLinc, students can receive help addressing everyday issues through short-term counseling from licensed clinicians available 24/7, 365 days a year; therapy via text with licensed counselors Monday through Friday; and digital group support via live sessions hosted by licensed counselors. Other resources available include training, and referrals to help address challenges like child or elder care, adoption, pet care, home repair, education and housing.

If a student isn’t sure what assistance they need, they can access a Mental Health Navigator to receive personalized guidance for program support and resources. Beyond mental health support, StudentLinc also provides free legal consultations with a local attorney, consultations with financial experts and more via phone, the web and mobile apps.

“Mental health isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey,” adds Memeti. “At DeVry, we want to make sure that all our students, whether traditional or adult learners, have the resources they need to complete their education while prioritizing their well-being.”

To learn more about the ways DeVry University supports all students, visit DeVry.edu.

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Americans say an hour of their time is worth $240, according to new Empower research

2024-05-01T08:09:00

(BPT) – Time is money, and there’s a premium: Americans say their time is worth $240 per hour, on average, according to new research from Empower, a financial services company. Based on a standard 40-hour week, that puts the perceived value at $499,200 per year — nearly eight times higher than the average U.S. salary of $59,384.1 One third of people set the price at under $50 per hour, though 1 in 4 Millennials value their time at over $500 per hour — the highest of any generation (just 6% of Boomers name that rate).

Many Americans are racing against the clock when it comes to financial goals: half think they’re running out of time to save for retirement, even though 44% say they started putting money away early enough. Another 43% wish they could go back in time to start saving sooner, and half (48%) would rather have a longer retirement period with less money, than retire later in life with more.

People may be further along than they think. According to Empower Personal Dashboard™ data, the average 401(k) balance clocks in at $291,810 and for people in their 50s approaching retirement age, the number jumps to $580,2592 — one key measure of overall personal savings and investments.

Additional key findings:

  • Spending time wisely: The average price of 60 minutes varies: Millennials say it’s worth $328.84 per hour, followed by Gen Z at $266.92, Gen X at $215.90 and Boomers at $137.19. Based on this study’s findings of how Americans value their time, two hours of meetings at work cost close to $500 per person; catching nightly Z’s costs nearly $2,000 a day (or close to $60,000 a month).
  • Less is more: 1 in 4 people (26%) are willing to take a 15% pay cut to gain more free time. 40% would rather pay to make life easier right now than to save and have more money later and more than 2 in 5 say outsourcing household tasks gives them a better work/life balance (41%).
  • Cost of convenience: 36% would rather pay more to get an item delivered instead of driving 10 minutes to get it. A third of Gen Z (30%) would pay up to $5,000 per year to save time not doing everyday tasks like cleaning and yard work, and 36% of Millennials would shell out up to $10,000 for someone to take on in-house chores and cook meals.
  • AI to save time: 21% would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, help pay bills on time (25%) and make a budget by examining personal financial accounts (23%).
  • Time on money: 26% would spend $5,000 per year to have someone else manage their long-term financials, investments, and savings. More than a third of Americans admit to procrastinating money tasks like paying their bills.
  • Clocking in: 44% say they wish they could work part-time, but can’t afford it. More than a third (32%) say they want to start their own business, but don’t have the time.
  • The luxury of time: 6 in 10 people (63%) “feel wealthy” if they have enough time to spend with family and friends. Nearly a third feel comfortable taking on debt if it buys more free time (29%) or a memorable experience (29%). Nearly 2 in 5 say saving time is more important than saving money (37%).

Sign of the times

Americans are having to work alongside the wider economy on their journey to hit their goals. Though 30% of adults are not keeping track of any financial “signs of the times,” around a quarter are keeping an eye on shrinkflation (24%), as product sizes get smaller for the same or more cost. It can be a struggle, as more than 3 in 4 Americans believe they’re doing as much as they can to save money while shopping (76%). Some 22% of Americans are also keeping track of their ability to retire and when (22%), as nearly half (48%) worry about how they’ll pay for expenses once they’re no longer working.

Americans are watching the strength of the job market (21%), and cryptocurrency (19%). The same amount are keeping an eye on volatility in the stock market. Compounding gains can play an essential role in building wealth and 3 in 10 people say they would have invested in a popular stock if they could go back in time.

The time is now

Time is of the essence as people work toward streamlining their lives and focusing on what matters most to them, amid commitments across work and home that can affect their financial happiness. More than half of Millennials (52%) and 37% overall think saving time is more important than saving money.

For many, getting advice early on is key: nearly 1 in 5 would have worked with a financial professional sooner. Overall, Americans remain optimistic, with 78% saying it’s never too late to start focusing on your finances.

Methodology

Empower commissioned the “Time is Money” survey, which is based on online survey responses from 2,204 Americans ages 18+ and fielded by Morning Consult from March 11-14, 2024.

1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Dec 2023. Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages.

2 Anonymized user data from the Empower Personal Dashboard™ as of March 2024.

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Do you have asthma? Help protect yourself against a potentially serious bacterial lung disease

2024-05-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – May is Asthma Awareness Month, an annual effort aimed at improving the lives of people with asthma and educating the broader community about it. It is also a time when people with asthma can experience more symptoms or flare-ups because of increased triggers in their environment. These triggers may include excess pollen in the air, grass, pollution, other airborne irritants and even temperature changes.

However, there are steps you can take this spring. Here are a few to consider this season, so you can stop and smell the flowers:

  • Minimize allergy triggers in the home by regularly washing your bedsheets, using an air purifier, cleaning vents and vacuuming your floor
  • Exercise regularly by swimming, hiking, doing yoga and walking
  • Develop an asthma action plan with your doctor that includes treatment and symptom management approaches
  • Get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia since adults 19-64 with asthma are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening.

Adults 19-64 with asthma, or certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, chronic heart disease and COPD, are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia. In fact, if you’re 18-49 with asthma, you’re at 5x greater risk for pneumococcal pneumonia compared to healthy adults in the same range.

Adults 65 or older are also at increased risk as they are at over 10x greater risk of being hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia compared to adults younger than 50.

If you fall into any of these groups, it’s important to know that getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself.

Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time, in any season. There’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia in the winter or during flu season, but you can get it any time of year. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is a great time to assess if pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia previously, your healthcare provider may recommend another vaccination for additional protection.

So, take this month as an opportunity to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination and visit PfizerVax.com to schedule a vaccination today.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

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5 expert tips to support athlete success this spring

2024-04-30T07:25:00

(BPT) – If you have a family of athletes, you know how hectic the spring sports schedule can be. As you prepare for another busy season, focus on feeding your young athletes right to optimize their sports performance and fuel their fun!

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner wants to help active families find their stride this year by offering five expert tips that can make a big difference in your child’s athletic performance.

1. Don’t skip breakfast

You’ve probably heard it before, but breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially if you play sports. “Eating breakfast kick-starts your metabolism, replenishes your energy stores, and sets the tone for the day ahead,” said Blatner. She recommends eating nourishing morning meals that include protein, carbs and healthy fats, like a quick breakfast wrap with a whole grain tortilla, avocado, spinach and eggs to fuel your muscles for whatever challenges lie ahead.

2. Eat your colors

Did you know that the color of fruits and vegetables is important to maintaining a healthy diet? Each color offers different nutrients. For example, leafy greens contain nitrates for energy, yellow/orange produce has carotenoids for healthy vision, and red produce has lycopene and anthocyanin for heart health. When putting a meal together, do a “color check.” Blatner recommends that your plate should have at least two colors at every meal.

3. Prioritize protein

Protein is power! Athletes who want to improve their strength and endurance should prioritize protein at every meal, and having protein after practice or a game is especially important. According to the International Society of Sports Nutrition, eating protein after a workout promotes muscle gain and aids in recovery so your young athlete can wake up energized for the next day of activities.

4. Ensure ample time for rest and recovery

It’s crucial for young athletes to focus on recovery and rest to maintain their energy and performance levels throughout the entire sports season. Engaging in sports can lead to muscle wear and fatigue, so prioritize adequate sleep and relaxation for muscle repair, growth and a reduced risk of injury. Recovery time isn’t just physical; it also provides mental rest, which is essential for maintaining focus and motivation.

5. Stock your snacks

Athletes are constantly on the go. When time is short between practice and games, the kids may be tempted to reach for convenient but unhealthy snacks. To help your family make wholesome choices, Blatner encourages keeping grab & go snacks of nutrient-dense foods in your fridge.

A tasty, nutritious and easy snack or meal to prep and store are Veggie Chaffles (Cheese Waffles) made with Eggland’s Best eggs. Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Vitamin B-12 compared to ordinary eggs, which provides a natural energy boost. They also contain more than double the Omega-3s compared to ordinary eggs, which may help reduce muscle soreness and aid in recovery after strenuous exercise.

You can make these chaffles in batches to keep as a grab-and-go snack that the kids can take straight from the fridge on the way out the door. This recipe has just three ingredients, and you can use whatever veggies your kids like, such as cauliflower, carrots or even zucchini!

Eggland’s Best Veggie Chaffles (Cheese Waffles)

Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 25 minutes; Makes: 8 mini waffles

Ingredients

  • 4 Eggland’s Best Eggs, large
  • 1 cup finely chopped veggies like cauliflower or shredded zucchini
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Olive oil (for brushing)

Preparation

1. Preheat mini waffle maker.

2. In a bowl, mix together Eggland’s Best Eggs with veggies and cheese.

3. Brush waffle maker with olive oil and pour 1/4 cup egg mixture into the mini waffle maker. Close the lid and cook for 3 minutes, until golden.

4. Repeat to use the rest of the egg mixture.

Additional Notes

Eat right away or store in fridge for up to 4 days.

Eat leftovers cold, at room temperature or heat in microwave for about 20 seconds.

Time Saver: Use frozen “riced” cauliflower or other veggies so there’s no chopping required!

Using these five expert tips, you can set your athletes up for success and give their bodies the support they need to excel in their sports. To find more recipes to fuel your day, visit EgglandsBest.com.

Smash your sports goals with a sweepstakes!

As the Official Egg of Little League® Baseball and Softball, Eggland’s Best is encouraging families to enter the Eggland’s Best “Egg-ceptional Wellness” Sweepstakes. From now through May 14, fans can visit EBFamilySweeps.com and enter for a chance to win the Grand Prize of $5,000 to plus up your active family’s wellness activities this spring!

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1 in 7 mothers experience inadequate pain relief during C-section, new recommendations from anesthesiologists help address the problem

2024-04-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – Nearly a third of all births in the U.S. — more than 1.3 million — are delivered by cesarean section (C-section) each year. While their baby’s safety is top of mind, mothers are likely also concerned about the pain they may experience during the procedure. Although epidurals are the most common pain relief used and are highly effective, recent research found that nearly one in seven mothers — almost 200,000 a year — may still experience some level of pain or discomfort, which can significantly affect their mental health.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is helping to address this issue by releasing new recommendations and best practices to help ensure all moms-to-be receive adequate pain management during planned or unexpected C-sections.

“Data shows that when a mother’s pain is not adequately controlled during a cesarean delivery they can experience psychological distress and an increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder,” said ASA President Ronald L. Harter, M.D., FASA. “ASA’s new recommendations will help ensure all expectant mothers receive optimal pain care tailored to their individual needs.”

ASA explains pain management options during C-sections, the new recommendations and what women in labor can expect and should ask their anesthesiologist.

Pain Management During C-sections

The majority of mothers undergoing C-sections receive regional anesthesia, which is proven very safe and quite effective and used in 95% of elective and 80% of emergency cesarean deliveries in the U.S. The two most common are epidurals and spinal blocks, where pain medication is delivered through an injection or a catheter inserted into the lower back.

An epidural or spinal block is often the preferred pain-relief method because the baby is exposed to the lowest amount of medication, and the mother can still actively participate in the baby’s birth. However, general anesthesia may be necessary in some cases.

Many hospitals have historically tracked general anesthesia rates in cesarean delivery, but the frequency of pain associated with epidurals and spinal blocks has largely been unknown until more recently when research found that mothers’ pain was sometimes not adequately controlled through this type of anesthesia, requiring additional anesthesia or pain medications.

New Recommendations and Best Practices for Health Care Teams

ASA’s new recommendations and best practices focus on helping health care professionals identify patients at increased risk for pain before a C-section, maintaining adequate anesthesia throughout the delivery, ensuring effective communication between the mother and her health care team and following up with new moms to ensure quality improvements and disparities are reduced. The importance of shared decision-making with the patient is also discussed.

What Moms-To-Be Should Expect

A cesarean delivery is needed if a baby can’t be born vaginally for reasons such as the positioning of the baby or placenta, or other health risks to the mother or baby. Some C-sections are planned, but many are done when unexpected issues occur during labor for a planned vaginal delivery.

For patients preparing for a C-section, ASA encourages them to talk with their anesthesiologist about their anesthesia plan. Questions moms-to-be should consider asking include:

  • What type of anesthesia will I receive?
  • How will the anesthesia affect my baby?
  • What can I expect to feel during the procedure?
  • How will my pain be managed after the procedure?
  • What are the possible side effects of the anesthesia?
  • How will you monitor me during the procedure?
  • What happens if I require general anesthesia during the procedure?
  • Will an anesthesiologist be involved in my care?

Expecting mothers also are urged to speak up if they experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure, as additional anesthesia options may be available to help control pain while protecting both their health and the baby’s.

Learn more about how anesthesiologists help manage pain during labor and the anesthesia options that are available by visiting: https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/pain-management/types-of-pain/labor/.

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Building up Africa’s Health Care Network in the Fight Against Malaria to Bring Families Closer to Care

2024-04-30T11:15:00

(BPT) – Malaria continues to be a significant public health issue in certain regions across the globe, especially in Africa. In the most recent estimate, the World Health Organization approximated 608,000 malaria-related deaths with 95% of those being traced back to Africa. This life-threatening disease spread to humans through bites from certain types of infected female mosquitoes is preventable and curable. However, if left untreated, it can turn deadly in just 24 hours after symptoms like fever, chills, sweats, headaches, nausea and body aches appear.

The challenge many people in countries most affected by malaria face is access to proper healthcare services as it often tends to be concentrated in rural areas. For example, approximately four out of five Rwandans live in these rural areas and on average need to walk three hours to receive the proper care they need. SC Johnson, makers of Raid®, has been working to find ways to help in the fight against malaria through the creation of sustainable programs.

For more than 60 years, SC Johnson has been demonstrating its leadership in insect science research, and for the last decade has specifically focused on preventing mosquito-borne disease with prevention tools that maximize social impact and help strengthen communities. From this, the Closer to Care initiative emerged.

Impact of Closer to Care

Working closely with the Society of Family Health Rwanda and the Rwanda Ministry of Health, SC Johnson, makers of Raid®, has been bringing health posts to some of the most remote areas of Rwanda. Over the past five years, they have built 76 of these health posts, which diagnose, treat and prevent malaria for more than 1 million people in the region. Real time population data has been used to pinpoint where people need care most to bring down the average walk-time to receive care down from three hours to just 30 minutes. Since the introduction of these health posts, Rwanda has also seen its mortality rates decrease by 89%.

Bringing economic development to Rwanda

Oftentimes, in areas where the health posts do not exist, family and other community members, especially women, have been on the frontlines fighting against malaria. The time they spent caring for their communities made it nearly impossible to secure consistent work, severely impacting their economic growth.

Beyond providing access to healthcare resources, these health posts boost the local economy by creating jobs. With each health post built, there is a need for added infrastructure, such as convenience stores and additional housing. This stimulates job creation in two ways — people who can help build, as well as those who can staff the new businesses in the community. SC Johnson, makers of Raid®, has also implemented an educational program known as Certified Care. Through this program, women in the area are formally trained to receive certification as Community Health Workers, providing them with a living wage.

If you would like to support the fight against malaria, share the Closer to Care mission to help bring awareness to this issue and ensure healthcare access continues to be provided to those communities who need it.

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Sculpt and Tone with truBody by Cutera

2024-04-30T13:31:00

(BPT) – Wouldn’t it be great to hit the beach with a more toned and refined body without taking medications, yo-yo dieting, or constantly hitting the treadmill?

Enter truBody® by Cutera, two multi-award winning technologies that are safe, effective, and non-invasive to help you achieve a slimmer and more toned shape without the surgical downtime. truBody can help deliver a customized body sculpting solution with the guidance of a treatment provider to help you reach your personal body goals.

truBody offers cutting-edge body sculpting treatments developed to help reduce fat and tone muscle without invasive procedures or downtime. truBody combines two powerful technologies to target stubborn fat1 and tone and firm muscle.2 Designed to help reduce fat on your trouble spots with truSculpt, and to tone and strengthen your muscles with truFlex, each treatment boasts quick 15-minute sessions making it a convenient option.

“truSculpt damages fat cells using heat, the damaged fat cells are then eliminated from the body naturally1,3,4 while truFlex delivers the equivalent of 54,000 crunches to strengthen and tone multiple muscle groups2,” says Dr. Nina Patel, Founder of Renew Wellness Center in Sugarland, TX. “The unique muscle stimulation technology of truFlex features adjustable intensities to strengthen, tone, and to help achieve the personalized treatment my patients desire2.”

“One of the most appealing aspects of truBody is its convenience and efficiency. Each treatment session typically lasts around 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into even the busiest schedules. And because truBody is non-invasive, there’s little to no downtime — you can return to your daily activities immediately after your session,” adds Dr. Patel.

During a truBody session, the truSculpt treatment delivers controlled radiofrequency energy deep into the tissue. This energy gently heats the fat cells, causing them to break down and be naturally eliminated by the body over time.

Dr. Jennifer Lee, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Pacific OBGYN & Aesthetics in Newport Beach, CA, is impressed with the truBody technology. “Many patients begin to see results after just one session, with optimal results typically achieved within a few months. As the treated fat cells are gradually flushed out of the body, my patients notice a slimmer, more sculpted silhouette emerging.”

“Whether my patients want to reduce love handles and belly fat or strengthen and tone their abs, thighs and glutes, truBody can help them achieve the body they want,” says Dr. Lee. “truBody is a favorite of my patients of various ages and fitness levels. Its visible results and high satisfaction rates in my practice perfectly align with our dedication to offering comprehensive care for men and women at all fitness stages.”

Unlike other treatments that only target specific areas, each truFlex and truSculpt treatment is customizable to an individual’s body. truFlex also has the ability to treat multiple muscle groups simultaneously, including the abdomen, thighs, glutes, and obliques.3

Don’t let stubborn fat or the plateau effect hold you back from feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. With truBody by Cutera, you can finally say goodbye to stubborn fat cells, build muscle and say hello to a slimmer, more sculpted you.

To find a truBody provider near you, visit https://yourtrubody.com/en-us/find-a-provider/

Important safety and risk information about truSculpt and truFlex is available by contacting Cutera at www.cutera.com/us-en/global-offices. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider.

1. truSculpt Clinical Guidelines, Cutera, Inc.

2. truFlex Clinical Guidelines, Cutera, Inc.

3. Data on File. Cutera, Inc.

4. Napekoski KM, Ronan SJ, Pocock GM. Inflammatory and adipocyte cell death response following a single 15-minute monopolar radiofrequency treatment [white paper, Cutera Inc.]. 2018.