Month: July 2022

2022-07-05T11:05:00

(BPT) – This content is sponsored and provided by Myovant Sciences and Pfizer Inc.

Menstruation (your period) is a normal and necessary process for the human body – yet stigma around menstruation remains common. While it’s a completely natural and well-known process, menstruators often feel embarrassed or uncomfortable openly discussing their period and its symptoms or purchasing menstrual products.^[1] A nationwide survey of over 13,000 Americans between the ages of 19-48 conducted by Myovant Sciences and Evidation Health in 2019 found that about 1 in 5 female respondents do not feel comfortable talking about menstruation with their healthcare provider.^[2,3] As a result, people with health conditions associated with menstruation may go undiagnosed, suffer in silence, and may not seek treatments to help their symptoms. Over 80% of female survey respondents also reported that they have experienced heavy menstrual bleeding or menstrual pain at some point in their lives.^[2] Abnormalities in your period like heavy menstrual bleeding may be signs of uterine fibroids – a condition that occurs in about 70% of menstruators by the onset of menopause.^[4]

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the walls of the uterus.^[5] There are several different types of fibroids, such as intramural, submucosal, and subserosal, which are defined by their location in the uterus.^[5] Estrogen contributes to their growth and research shows factors such as your genetics may also play a role in the disease.^[5] Black women are also more likely to experience uterine fibroids than white women.^[6] While not all people with uterine fibroids have symptoms, fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and anemia that may impact quality of life.^[7]

What is a heavy period?

Heavy menstrual bleeding, commonly known as heavy periods, can be defined as more than 80 mL in a cycle (approximately 1/3 cup – i.e., soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours).^[8] Other signs and symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding may include needing to wake up to change your sanitary protection during the night, bleeding for longer than a week, and needing to restrict your daily activities due to a heavy flow.^[9] Some menstruators also experience menstrual pain and cramps along with heavy menstrual bleeding.^[10] If you experience these or any other symptoms that feel abnormal, listen to your body and talk to your doctor.

When and how can you seek a diagnosis?

Accepting heavy menstrual bleeding and pain as “normal” or “just how things are” should not be the standard for how people think about their cycle. If you are experiencing pain or if you think your flow may be heavy, it may be worth discussing with your doctor. The first step in seeking a diagnosis is scheduling a pelvic exam. Depending on size and location, uterine fibroids may be found during these exams. If your doctor is unable to feel any fibroids through a manual exam, they may also use imaging technology, such as ultrasound, to identify them.^[5] Once these tests are complete, discuss your results with your doctor. If you are diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you can then work together to come up with the most appropriate plan for you.

What are your options?

Talking to your doctor about your symptoms, seeking a diagnosis and learning about your options for care are important steps you can take. Medication can be used to help treat some of the symptoms associated with uterine fibroids, including newer options such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, which can decrease heavy periods associated with fibroids.^[11] Other treatment options include minimally invasive procedures, which may destroy the fibroids, as well as surgery, such as hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) or myomectomy (removal of fibroids from the uterus).^[11] If you think you may have uterine fibroids, talk to your doctor about your specific situation and what treatment option may be right for you.

References

1. Casola AR, Kunes B, Jefferson K, Riley AH. Menstrual health stigma in the United States: Communication complexities and implications for theory and Practice. J Midwifery Women’s Health. 2021;66(6):725-728.
2. Voices of periods: Hear their stories, help end period stigma. femaleforwardtogether.com. Accessed January 12, 2022. https://femaleforwardtogether.com/state-of-the-cycle/.
3. First-of-Its-Kind Nationwide Survey from Myovant Sciences and Evidation Health Captures Impact of Menstrual Stigma and Symptoms. Myovant.com. Published October 17, 2019. Accessed January 12, 2022. https://investors.myovant.com/news-releases/news-release- details/first-its-kind-nationwide-survey-myovant-sciences-and-evidation.
4. Stewart EA, Cookson CL, Gandolfo RA, Schulze-Rath R. Epidemiology of uterine fibroids: A systematic review. BJOG. 2017;124(10):1501-1512.
5. Uterine Fibroids. nichd.nih.gov. Accessed January 21, 2022. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/uterine.
6. Baird DD, Dunson DB, Hill MC, Cousins D, Schectman JM. High cumulative incidence of uterine leiomyoma in black and white women: ultrasound evidence. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2003;188(1):100-107.
7. Marsh EE, Al-Hendy A, Kappus D, Galitsky A, Stewart EA, Kerolous M. Burden, Prevalence, and Treatment of Uterine Fibroids: A Survey of U.S. Women. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2018;27(11):1359-1367.
8. Apgar BS, Kaufman AH, George-Nwogu U, Kittendorf A. Treatment of menorrhagia. Am Fam Physician. 2007;75(12):1813-1819.
9. Heavy menstrual bleeding. ACOG.org. Accessed January 12, 2022. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/heavy-menstrual-bleeding.
10. Borah BJ, Nicholson WK, Bradley L, Stewart EA. The impact of uterine leiomyomas: a national survey of affected women. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2013;209(4):319.e1-319.e20.
11. ACOG Committee on Practice Bulletins—Gynecology. Practice Bulletin No. 228: Management of Symptomatic Uterine Leiomyomas. Obstet Gynecol. 2021 Jun 1;137(6):e100- 115.

2022-07-05T08:05:00

(BPT) – Who doesn’t love a great movie? Going to the movies is the perfect way to relax and unwind from our daily routines. Not only is it a fun pastime, but it is also the ultimate form of wellness and self-care. As we head into the summer season, there are a plethora of movies being released, from big franchises to small indie films. No matter what type of moviegoer you might be, here are some tips to make the most of the experience as you transport yourself into whatever alternate universe the big screen may transport you to.

1. Eat a balanced (and delicious!) snack

Popcorn might be what you typically think of when you head to the movies, but why not switch things up? One serving of almonds contains 6 grams of plant-based protein, 4 grams of fiber, 13 grams of unsaturated fat, 1 gram of saturated fat and 20% of your recommended magnesium needs, allowing you to stay energized and full for the duration of the movie. Plus, they can be prepared in a variety of different ways, so you’ll never be bored of them. Try this easy-to-make and non-messy Tropical Trail Mix recipe that can be thrown in your bag for all your movie ventures.

2. Stay hydrated!

While snacking on savory snacks, it is important to keep drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. This rule plays true especially in the summertime as the heat amps up and dehydration levels rise. As we sweat out the fluids that make up half of our bodies, it is important to replenish them and maintain proper nutrition.

3. Get into character

Have fun with your movie night! Watching a superhero movie? Dress the part in costume and make snacks that your favorite superheroes might eat! Watching a rom com? Wear some cozy pajamas and bring out the facemasks. Whatever movie or genre it is, you’ll feel as if you’re a fundamental part of it when setting the scene. Plus, it will feel like a real break from reality!

4. Put devices away

Try to ensure the movie screen is the ONLY screen you are looking at. It is important that you use this time to unplug and focus on just watching a movie. Don’t answer those texts and don’t scroll on TikTok. By doing small things like putting away other devices, you will be able to be present and unwind.

5. Not in the mood to go out — DIY!

Have an at-home movie night with friends, or even by yourself if you don’t want to trek to the movies. Sometimes being in the comfort of your own home is the best way to relax after a busy week. Curl up on the couch under a blanket with a cup of tea, turn on the TV, grab those nutrient-packed snacks to keep you attentive, and you have the perfect at-home movie night.

With these tips and tricks, you can make the most of your summer movie nights and get the mental reset that you deserve. Movie nights are a form of self-care and a great way to spend time with loved ones, and no matter which movie or movie location, almonds are always a great choice. Follow @californiaalmonds on Instagram for more information on how to incorporate this delicious nut into your wellness routines all throughout the summer and into future movie nights to come.

2022-07-01T11:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is a season full of excitement, from cookouts to beach days to gatherings with loved ones and other celebrations. No matter the occasion, infusing delicious flavors into any moment makes it memorable. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, grilling guru or simply like to experiment with new flavors, it’s important to make time to enjoy the good things in life, especially a refreshing cocktail and delicious dish!

If you’re planning an upcoming event or just want to make any day more special, try these simple hosting tips and ideas from Mount Gay Rum:

Set the stage

As you make time for taste this summer, create an atmosphere that sets the tone for the occasion and reflects your personal style. From an intimate backyard barbecue to a festive dinner party, think about the mood and tailor the ambiance and menu accordingly. A sophisticated theme can add creativity and help inform the menu. Lastly, while food and cocktails are the heart of any gathering, the decor in your space will add to a great experience for guests and make for a party to remember.

Start with a refreshing summer sip

If you’re looking to entertain or quench your thirst in the heat, no other spirit can do that better than rum. Mount Gay, the world’s oldest running rum distillery dating back to 1703, is known for its rich, flavorful tasting notes imparted by its unique maturation process, which utilizes a variety of casks such as ex-American whiskey, bourbon and cognac. These distinct tasting notes transform delicious cocktails and make for a great base for any recipe, from classics to riffs that use fresh summer ingredients. Try shaking up a Mount Gay Black Barrel ‘Good Old Pine’ cocktail instead of your usual Old Fashioned by simply swapping in pineapple syrup in place of simple syrup to kick this cocktail up a notch. Mix in 2 ounces of Black Barrel and two dashes of bitters and stir over a big ice cube in a rocks glass before garnishing with a lemon peel or dehydrated pineapple.

Prepare with the essentials

Whether you are a seasoned host or new to entertaining, ensure you have the essentials to create a fail-proof menu. To start, keep your bar stocked with Mount Gay to craft exciting libations and refine your easy-to-prep food pairings. Mount Gay brings the essence of summer flavor to life with a new limited-edition “Summer Taste Essentials” kit available on Cocktail Courier through July 15. Curated with ‘Next Level Chef’ and TV personality, Richard Blais, the kit encourages pleasure-seekers to savor delicious flavors and upgrade memorable occasions with everything needed to craft ‘Good Old Pine’ cocktails, along with a cedar grilling plank and set of seasonings to spice up your dishes.

Explore flavor pairings

Nothing elevates an affair better than thoughtful cocktail and culinary pairings. According to Blais, “pairing refreshing cocktails with savory summer grilling staples is the perfect way to discover new flavor combinations,” so take advantage of barbecue season to experiment with different taste profiles and seasonal ingredients. “I think there’s a basic misunderstanding that rum is sweet, understandably because it gets paired with fruit often, but it’s so much more complex, especially with the barrel aging. You can think of Mount Gay in the same way you think of whisky or bourbon,” said Blais, who pairs it often with meat off the grill, roasted chicken and vegetables. Beyond pairing Mount Gay cocktails with his favorite culinary bites, he also enjoys bringing the flavors of the rum into the actual dish — like his Black Barrel Blaised Ribs.

For great cocktail recipes, visit MountGay.com or follow @MountGayRum.

© 2022 Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd., Mount Gay^® Rum, 32-43% Alc./Vol., Imported by Rémy Cointreau USA, Inc., New York, NY. Eclipse Design^®. Please Drink Responsibly.

2022-07-01T10:01:00

(BPT) – Many cities claim to be the ultimate family-friendly destination. Yet, only one city can officially call itself KidsBURGH^®. That would be Pittsburgh.

The city — long known for its bridges, sports teams and Primanti Bros. sandwiches — now also boasts renowned arts and culture, a booming food scene, a thriving reputation in the worlds of technology and innovation and many KidsBURGH family attractions.

So, what exactly makes Pittsburgh, KidsBURGH? Easy — it’s the quality and quantity of must-see, family friendly attractions found throughout the city.

Carnegie Science Center

Featuring four floors of interactive exhibits, the Carnegie Science Center is perfect for children of all ages. Toddlers will enjoy the water play space and Littler Learner Clubhouse, while older children can become a human yo-yo at Highmark SportsWorks^® and descend into the U.S.S. Requin (SS 481) submarine. Parents also will love the Center, with opportunities to rock out in the GUITAR: The Instrument That Rocked The World exhibit and experience the world-renowned Miniature Railroad & Village^®.

Gateway Clipper Fleet

Make memories on three scenic rivers aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet. Their riverboats give an unmatched tour of the city as guests pass under bridges, past sports stadiums and around the fountain at Point State Park. Be on the lookout for kids-themed cruises on select dates throughout the year, allowing the youngest of guests to dress up and meet their favorite superhero or princess accompanied by a buffet dinner and dancing.

Heinz History Center

Walk through Pittsburgh’s 250-year history at the Senator John Heinz History Center, the largest history museum in Pennsylvania. See real puppets and set pieces from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, delve into the history of Heinz products through innovative displays like a towering Heinz Ketchup bottle and learn more about innovation and success through Pittsburgh’s contributions to steel, health care, robotics and other fields. Kids also will love the two-tier play place with games, an interactive model to build your own Pittsburgh and a giant slide.

Idlewild & Soak Zone

The ticket to family fun is Idlewild & SoakZone, located just a short drive outside of the city. Named “Best Childrens’ Park” by Amusement Today and “Best Park for Families” by the National Amusement Park Historical Association, Idlewild’s blend of classic amusement thrills and complete waterpark make it a must each summer. Younger children will love the Only in Pittsburgh attractions that bring their favorite stories and characters to life, like the interactive Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood ride aboard a trolley and the walkable Story Book Forest through the Enchanted Castle, Geppetto’s Workshop and other classic tales.

Kennywood

Kennywood may be a historic landmark, but this theme park is anything but antiquated. Older kids soar on the Phantom’s Revenge and Steel Curtain (the fastest and tallest coasters in Pennsylvania, respectively), chow down on Potato Patch Fries and get drenched on the Pittsburg* Plunge. Rides like the Only in Pittsburgh Kangaroo and Noah’s Ark make it easy to share laughs and thrills as a family. Younger riders are all aboard for Thomas Town™, featuring five Thomas the Tank Engine-themed rides, and Kiddieland, which takes classic rides found throughout the park and scales them down to their size.

National Aviary

Home to more than 500 birds and animals, the National Aviary is a hit for any fan of our feathered friends. Get up close to a penguin colony during feeding time, strut with Victoria crowned pigeons in front of a waterfall and look for a sloth hiding in the treetops as tropical birds soar by. Parents can enhance their trip by adding on animal encounters that get children up close to penguins, sloths, owls and falcons.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Go on a safari in the heart of the city at Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. This sprawling, 77-acre property gives kids tons of space to roam as they encounter new wildlife, learn more about their favorite animals and play across wooden bridges, tree slides and playgrounds throughout the Zoo. Starting select nights in August, the Asian Lantern Festival lights up the Zoo with more than 50 glowing sculptures plus themed food and entertainment.

Sandcastle Waterpark

Everyone from beginner swimmers to thrill seekers can find summer fun at Sandcastle Waterpark. Blast down 16 water slides, including the all-new Bombs Away, a free-falling body slide from the highest point in the park through 300 feet of splashing fun. Young ones can also splash at two kids’ areas, and the whole family can enjoy a peaceful float on the lazy river or roam the beautifully reimagined Boardwalk full of new dining options.

Bonus Stops

The fun doesn’t stop there! Ride the Duquesne Incline for an unbeatable panoramic view of the city, get hands-on with creative art and science exhibits at Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, view fantastic sculptures, architecture and paintings at Carnegie Museum of Art, see real dinosaur fossils at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, bike along Pittsburgh’s miles and miles of riverfront trails or explore any combination of Pittsburgh’s 90 unique neighborhoods.

And, that’s just a start. Plan the perfect getaway for your family to ride, splash, learn and grow in Pittsburgh’s KidsBURGH at visitpittsburgh.com/kidsburgh.

2022-07-01T12:01:01

(BPT) – When the temperature is hot, hosts can keep their cool by minimizing time spent in the kitchen. Trade cooking time for social time with family and friends by picking recipes that can be prepped in advance and put together shortly before mealtime. The grill can be a host’s best friend — it cooks quickly, adds great flavor and doesn’t heat up the kitchen.

First, set a cool vibe with Grape Sangria Spritzers. California grapes and slices of orange and nectarine sparkle like jewels in a refreshing mixture of rosé wine, brandy or liqueur, and seltzer. Build up the chill by freezing the halved grapes and fruit slices ahead of time. Make this kid-friendly by using flavored sparkling water in place of the wine and brandy.

Center the meal around Grilled Blackened Pork and Grape Kebabs to maximize the power of the grill. Marinating the pork ahead of time infuses the meat with garlic and Cajun flavors, while cutting the meat and vegetables into evenly sized cubes makes for quick, even cooking. Green California grapes provide a pop of color and burst of juicy sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the kebab. This recipe works equally well with beef, chicken, fish or shrimp.

Remember to buy extra grapes to keep chilled and on hand for a quick snack or dessert!

Grape Sangria Spritzers

Prep time: 15 minutes plus chilling

Cook time: 0 minutes

Yield: Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

3/4 cup halved red California grapes

3/4 cup halved green California grapes

1 bottle rosé wine

1/3 cup peach brandy or orange liqueur, such as Cointreau

1 large navel orange, cut in half lengthwise and cut crosswise in 1/4-inch thick slices

2 ripe, medium yellow nectarines, halved and cut into slices

Ice and chilled seltzer, for serving

Directions

Place the grape halves in a 1 and 1/2- to 2-quart pitcher and pour in the wine and brandy. Add the orange and nectarine slices to the pitcher, stir, cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight.

When ready to serve, fill 4 tall glasses 1/3 full of ice. Add a generous amount of fruit. Pour in the wine mixture to cover and then top off with the seltzer.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 300 Calories; Protein 1 g; Carbohydrate 35 g; Fat 0 g (0% Calories from Fat); Saturated Fat 0 g (0% Calories from Saturated Fat); Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 20 mg; Fiber 2 g.

Grilled Blackened Pork and Grape Kebabs

Prep time: 15 minutes plus standing

Cook time: 10 minutes

Yield: Makes 4 servings (four 12-inch skewers)

Ingredients

1 pound boneless pork sirloin or pork loin, cut evenly into 20 cubes (about 3/4 inch)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, peeled and finely grated

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

16 large green California grapes

1 medium red onion, peeled, quartered lengthwise; each piece halved crosswise

1 small yellow bell pepper, trimmed and cut into eight 3/4-inch squares

Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the pork, oil, garlic, and Cajun seasoning until meat is evenly coated; let stand for 15 minutes at room temperature.

Heat the gas grill to medium high (450 F) and oil the grates.

Meanwhile, assemble the kebabs: Thread the pork, grapes, onion, and peppers onto a skewer, alternating the ingredients to create an attractive pattern. Place on a tray. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 4 kebabs.

Grill the kebabs covered, until lightly charred underneath. Turn, cover, and grill 5 minutes more. Transfer kebabs to a platter and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 250 Calories; Protein 23 g; Carbohydrate 13 g; Fat 10 g (36% Calories from Fat); Saturated Fat 2 g (7% Calories from Saturated Fat); Cholesterol 60 mg; Sodium 350 mg; Fiber 1 g.