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5 Lifestyle and Nutrition Tips for Managing Occasional Stress

2023-06-29T11:03:00

(BPT) – Occasional stress can send your mind and body into overdrive and can create significant challenges to maintaining general wellness. It often interferes with restful sleep, healthy normal digestion or simply being able to quiet the mind; all of which can take a toll on your wellbeing.

“When it comes to supporting occasional stress management, as well as health and general wellness, safe and effective strategies should be priority number one. I recommend first trying these lifestyle and nutrition methods,” explains Dr. Chris Lee, who is a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) and specializes in the neuropsychology of wellness. “In fact, there are a number of options that work — and come with bonus benefits.” According to Dr. Chris Lee, the following options are safe, easy to do, and have additional advantages:

1. Be Mindful

Racing thoughts are a common symptom for those suffering with occasional stress, but there are techniques that can help focus these thoughts. For example, try setting a goal-oriented daily routine that you can achieve. Establishing reasonable expectations for yourself, as well as for the people in your support network, can help you gain traction in your mental health goals. On that same note, list building is another tip that can help keep you from feeling overwhelmed. When you take time to prioritize actionable items with start and finish dates, the bigger picture seems a lot more manageable.

Bonus Benefit – Once you get your routine fine-tuned, you’re likely to have more free time to try other cognitive coping mechanisms, like meditation. The power to dial down the chaos of life and simply be present is a learned skill. In fact, the regular practice of meditation not only calms your mind, but it can have a positive effect on your physical health including lower blood pressure and improved sleep.

2. Get Supplemental Support

Supplements are an easy way to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients and to help maintain or support your health. Standard Process®, a leading whole food-based nutritional supplement company has a number of product offerings formulated to help balance your mood, including Ashwagandha Forte and Drenamin®.

Ashwagandha Forte is an herbal supplement that contains Ashwagandha root which is used traditionally as a rejuvenating tonic for stress*. As a nervous system relaxant, it calms the mind and soothes the nerves*. Drenamin® is a supplement for adrenal support that promotes healthy adrenal gland function, maintains energy production and helps maintain emotional balance*.

Bonus Benefit – Besides aiding in supporting a balanced mood, Drenamin® encourages a healthy response to everyday environmental stresses and supports the body’s natural immune system response function*.

3. Get Moving

Exercise can be an extremely helpful tool in managing occasional stress. Why? One theory is because the mind is distracted during exercise. Additionally, physical activity releases endorphins which help us to feel happier and more content. And while sticking with an exercise regimen can seem daunting, starting slow and building up your fitness level gradually helps with sustainability. Small changes, like taking the stairs at work or walking the dog for another lap around the block, are great ways to start. In fact, walking is one of the best forms of exercise out there. It’s free, low impact, can be done indoors or outdoors and can be done with friends.

Bonus Benefit – Not surprisingly, daily exercise has a wide range of added benefits, according to the National Institutes of Health. This includes improved mobility, weight management and lowering the risk of heart disease, to name just a few.

4. Sleep Clean

Healthy sleep aids in healthy stress management; however, occasional stress can hinder restorative sleep. Thankfully, there are ways to support restful sleep. Clean sleep, or sleep hygiene, is a practice that prepares your mind and body for bedtime. Clean sleep tips include only using your bed for sleep, going technology-free for at least an hour before bedtime and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule. Creating a sleep routine programs your brain and internal body clock for rest. This helps your mind and body create a rhythm that can sustain energy and focus throughout the day.

Bonus Benefit – A regular sleep pattern also helps support healthy normal blood sugar levels. When we are low on sleep, we often reach for refined carbohydrates — or sugar, but sleeping enough at night can curb these cravings.

5. Pinpoint the Problem

Acupuncture is a centuries-old technique used to treat many conditions, including alleviating stress. This Chinese-based medicine involves the insertion of fine needles at strategic points on the body. Stimulating different points provides various therapeutic benefits; for example, some points encourage the release of serotonin. When serotonin is at a normal level, you feel focused and calm.

Bonus Benefit – Pain and occasional stress often go hand in hand, but acupuncture is one way to manage both at the same time. There are several ways in which acupuncture potentially helps to decrease pain. For example, it can increase blood flow to the tissue, bringing nutrients and oxygen to stimulate healing.

“Prioritizing your health is crucial,” continued Dr. Chris Lee. “The above tips are just some of the ways you can improve your overall well-being and find the strength to better navigate your daily health goals.”

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

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It is time to review low blood sugar emergency plans: Make sure your child with diabetes is safe at school

2023-06-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and caregivers of children with diabetes should review emergency plans for treating low blood sugar emergencies. With children spending a lot of time at school, it’s important to have a good plan in place — so your child and those around them have the tools they need to treat low blood sugar quickly and safely. It is important to review and update your child’s diabetes medical management plan at the start of every school year. This includes making sure you have a plan in place for low blood sugar emergencies.

Once you have reviewed and updated your child’s low blood sugar emergency treatment plan, it’s important to work with the school health team to create a supportive environment that is at the ready. Hypoglycemia treatment plans should educate school staff on recognizing signs and symptoms, as well as how to respond to them. It should clearly outline the proper use of each tool in the emergency kit, such as glucose tabs, juice, soda and glucagon, and when to use them.

When it comes to glucagon, the type in your child’s kit matters. Ready-to-use glucagon treatment options enable simpler administration during very low blood sugar emergencies. Your child may need help from an untrained bystander, making it critical to have a tool anyone can administer.

Gvoke HypoPen® is designed for such situations, with 99% of trained and untrained users successfully administering it in a study with simulated emergency conditions.[1] In just two simple steps, it brings very low blood sugar levels back to normal quickly and safely.[2]* Make sure your child’s treatment plan includes Gvoke HypoPen®, the ready-to-use rescue pen that anyone can administer.[1],[2]

“I want my son’s school to be able to take good care of him while he’s in their hands. That’s why I’ve trained them on how to use Gvoke® for severe lows.” — Nicole, mother to a son who lives with type 1 diabetes.

*People are considered to be out of a low blood sugar event when their blood sugar rises to 70 mg/dL or higher.[3]

INDICATION AND SAFETY SUMMARY

GVOKE is a prescription medicine used to treat very low blood sugar (severe hypoglycemia) in adults and kids with diabetes ages 2 years and above. It is not known if GVOKE is safe and effective in children under 2 years of age.

WARNINGS

Do not use GVOKE if:

  • you have a tumor in the gland on top of your kidneys (adrenal gland), called a pheochromocytoma.
  • you have a tumor in your pancreas called an insulinoma.
  • you are allergic to glucagon or any other inactive ingredient in GVOKE.

GVOKE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS, INCLUDING:

High blood pressure. GVOKE can cause high blood pressure in certain people with tumors in their adrenal glands.

Low blood sugar. GVOKE can cause low blood sugar in certain people with tumors in their pancreas called insulinomas by making too much insulin in their bodies.

Serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have a serious allergic reaction including:

  • rash
  • difficulty breathing
  • low blood pressure

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

The most common side effects of GVOKE in adults include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • swelling at the injection site
  • headache

The most common side effects of GVOKE in children include:

  • nausea
  • low blood sugar
  • high blood sugar
  • vomiting
  • abdominal pain
  • headache
  • pain or redness at the injection site
  • itching

These are not all the possible side effects of GVOKE. For more information, ask your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING

Before using GVOKE, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have adrenal gland problems
  • have a tumor in your pancreas
  • have not had food or water for a long time (prolonged fasting or starvation)
  • have low blood sugar that does not go away (chronic hypoglycemia)
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

HOW TO USE

  • Read the detailed Instructions for Use that come with GVOKE.
  • Use GVOKE exactly how your healthcare provider tells you to use it
  • Make sure your relatives, close friends, and caregivers know where you store GVOKE and how to use it the right way before you need their help.
  • Act quickly. Having very low blood sugar for a period may be harmful.
  • Your healthcare provider will tell you how and when to use GVOKE.
  • After giving GVOKE, your caregiver should call for emergency medical help right away.
  • If you do not respond after 15 minutes, your caregiver may give you another dose, if available. Tell your healthcare provider each time you use GVOKE. Low blood sugar may happen again after receiving an injection of GVOKE. Your diabetes medicine may need to be changed.

HOW TO STORE

  • Keep GVOKE in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.
  • Store GVOKE at temperatures between 68°F and 77°F.
  • Do not keep it in the refrigerator or let it freeze.

Keep GVOKE and all medicines out of the reach of children.

For more information, call 1-877-937-4737 or go to www.GvokeGlucagon.com.

Please see patient information here.

[1] Valentine V, Newswanger B, Prestrelski S, Andre AD, Garibaldi M. Human factors usability and validation studies of a glucagon autoinjector in a simulated severe hypoglycemia rescue situation. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2019;21(9):522-530.

[2] Gvoke [prescribing information]. Chicago, IL: Xeris Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 2023.

[3] American Diabetes Association. 6. Glycemic targets: standards of care in diabetes-2023. Diabetes Care. 2023;46(Suppl 1): S97-S110.

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It is your health…own it

2023-06-30T17:01:00

(BPT) – Having recently recognized National Cancer Survivor Month, when we celebrate the stories of the brave men and women who have fought and survived this unexpected and life-altering news of cancer diagnosis, it seems an appropriate time to discuss a key component of what might make more individuals diagnosed with cancer fall into the category of a survivor. First and foremost is early detection. Finding cancer in its early stages is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to improve one’s treatment options and overall survival rate. Wellness check-ups and health screenings aren’t just for older people. Everyone, including young people, can benefit from regularly seeing their doctor to discuss their health and have any recommended screenings or tests.

Unfortunately, many people delayed or avoided health care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data is showing a rebound in outpatient visits.1 That is the good news.

So why is this important? Because regular wellness check-ups and screenings help to improve early detection of serious illness. Not only does early detection increase the patient’s odds for more treatment options, but it also can help reduce overall costs and lead to a better overall outcome. And this is something that we can all benefit from, regardless of age, demographic or background. According to a new Wellness Matters Study of 2,201 Americans conducted by Aflac:

  • 1 in 4 respondents say they have skipped a regular checkup because they feel healthy.
  • 1 in 2 admit to having skipped a common health screening.

Yet at the same time, 51% of respondents diagnosed with cancer say they discovered it at a routine medical exam or a regularly scheduled screening, showcasing the value of having a policy that helps cover this type of medical visit.

So what can we do? Well, first of all, we can take care of our own health and, second, we can encourage our friends and families to develop good habits. That same survey indicates that 35% of Americans are likely to go to a routine checkup if a friend or loved one encourages … or, in some cases, nags … them to go. Secondly, 85% said they are more likely to go if it meant receiving a cash incentive to do so. National Cancer Survivor Month put the focus on this issue. Now, let’s keep it going and make a difference. Let’s take control of our healthcare.

For more information about the wellness matters survey visit aflac.com/WellnessMatters.

1 Impact COVID-19 Outpatient Visits 2020: Visits Remained Stable | Commonwealth Fund

2 Aflac (2023). Wellness Matters Survey. The 2023 Wellness Matters Survey was conducted among a nationally representative sample of 2,001 employed U.S. adults ages 18-65 in June 2023 by Kantar Profiles on behalf of Aflac. As part of the Hispanic population report, 200 Spanish-speaking respondents were added for a total of 580 respondents to ensure a robust understanding of this population. The additional 200 are not included in the general population report in order to maintain the nationally representative sample.

Aflac’s family of insurers include American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus, American Family Life Assurance Company of New York, Continental American Insurance Company, and Tier One Insurance Company.

Aflac | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2300669 EXP 6/24

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7 wellness expert-backed ways to prepare for a summer weekend away

2023-06-30T12:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is the time for exploring new places, spending time outdoors and relaxing in the sun. Whether you are heading to the beach or to the mountains, it is important that you prioritize wellness in whatever ways you can and prepare in advance for a weekend away, keeping your personal health and nutrition in mind. NYT bestselling author and podcast host Max Lugavere is sharing his seven steps to prepare for a successful weekend trip that prioritizes well-being and incorporates his go-to healthy snack: almonds.

1. Get those ZZZ’s

The beginning of a great trip starts the night before. Sleep sets the tone for the way we feel throughout the day, so make sure to get enough hours, especially if you have a big day ahead. Most adults require on average 7-9 hours each night.

2. Fuel up with a nutrient-dense breakfast

You’ve heard it before, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and a non-negotiable before spending a day out and about. Protein is a must in my breakfasts. One staple for me are almonds, which contain 6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving, along with 13g of unsaturated fat and 1g saturated fat. This makes them a perfect food to amp up Greek yogurt, cottage cheese and other high-protein faves.

3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Don’t forget to drink fluids (and eat hydrating foods). My goal is to always replace fluids and electrolytes lost, which varies based on the amount and type of exercise I partake in, any sessions in the sauna, the weather and my overall diet at the time. Listen to your body and keep drinking liquids (without added sugar!) and eating water-rich whole fruits and vegetables. Sometimes I even add electrolytes — highly recommend! When gearing up for a weekend on the go, your water bottle is your best buddy.

4. Pack a satiating snack

To maintain sustained energy levels, I grab almonds to snack on throughout the day. Almonds are a natural, whole food that will keep you full and are low in sugar, so no need to worry about your energy crashing.

5. Get some sun, but don’t overdo it

We need some direct sun exposure to create vitamin D, get a nice healthy glow, and even help generate nitric oxide which can keep our cardiovascular system healthy. But there’s no need to burn, which causes photoaging. I like to eat foods rich in skin-protecting astaxanthin (such as wild salmon) and antioxidant vitamin E (from almonds, for example). I also always keep a mineral-based sunscreen on hand if I anticipate overexposure. Trust me, your skin will thank you by the end of the weekend!

6. Any movement is good movement

You don’t have to go on a long and steep hike to get the most out of a summer weekend. Walking offers many benefits for your health, so depending on how you’re feeling, it’s totally okay to choose this low impact and sustainable option, and don’t forget to bring your water and a post-workout snack.

7. Bring activities

Whether setting out for a beach day, a hike or sightseeing, I always pack a book, game or other activity. If you have any downtime, you’ll be so much happier you can initiate in a group activity or pursue a passion, rather than resorting to scrolling on your phone.

From the beach to the mountains, summer is the season of adventure and of snacks, but feeling good throughout a weekend trip comes down to making nutrient-dense choices! That’s why when I’m preparing for a day out and about, I’m packing almonds. Convenient and filling, almonds have 6g of protein and 4g of fiber in each serving, perfect for midday refuels. When energy levels are high, spirits will be too!

Are you ready to incorporate healthy habits into your summer routine and beyond? By utilizing Max’s tips above, you’ll surely be able to have your best summer yet. Check out almonds.com for more information on how you can kick-start your wellness routine this summer.

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Creating new brands to conquer everyday problems

2023-06-29T15:55:00

(BPT) – What do more than 70% of consumers have in common? They all hate bugs. According to a recent survey, bugs bother a staggering 71% of Americans.[1] Yet, for more than a half a century, there were no “truly new” options for consumers when it came to pests until P&G Ventures reimagined the future and created a new brand, Zevo.

P&G Ventures is dedicated to growing new spaces for Procter & Gamble (P&G) that are outside of the Company’s current categories, including pest control, therapeutic skin care, pet parenting and automotive.

“We talk to thousands of consumers, spend time with them, shop with them, go to their homes, understand their pain points, test and retest, and then find a way to solve it,” said Mike Jensen, senior vice president, R&D, P&G Ventures. “We’re on a relentless pursuit — in fact, we’re obsessed with finding completely new ways to solve daily problems — problems that people had given up on or were forced to settle for trade-offs.”

P&G Venture’s first brand to go national, Zevo, skyrocketed to success, securing a coveted spot on Circana’s 2022 Top 25 New Product Pacesetter list. With 6 in 10 Americans doubting the efficacy of natural insect repellents,[2] Zevo emerged driving consumer choice with child- and pet-safe solutions inspired by plants’ own bug-fighting abilities.

From its new On-Body Mosquito + Tick Repellent to its Insect Killer Sprays and Flying Insect Traps, Zevo brings new-to-the-world solutions that are not just incrementally better. Combining a deep understanding of consumers’ needs for non-greasy, odorless solutions with the latest discoveries in science and technology, the experts at Zevo designed products, using naturally occurring amino acids and a blue and UV light system — ensuring that consumers don’t have to sacrifice safety, efficacy or comfort. Finally, nearly two-thirds of Americans[3] who have had to prematurely end outdoor excursions due to bothersome insects have solutions.

Helping keep homes free from pests is only the beginning. P&G Ventures is rethinking other categories where consumers had been left with solutions that were mediocre at best.

Beyond these cutting-edge pest control solutions, P&G Ventures is pairing the mastery of P&G with the passion and magic of entrepreneurs, innovators and creators to design products that deliver superior and irresistible performance that drive consumer choice in other spaces, including therapeutic skincare, pet parenting and automotive categories. And P&G Ventures has its sights on continuing to grow new spaces that are outside P&G’s current categories.

Visit P&G Ventures where brands are born, to find out how they’re solving unmet consumer needs with trailblazing household products, like Zevo.


[1] Maru/Blue on behalf of Citizen Relations and Zevo, April 2023

[2] Survey conducted by Wakefield on behalf of P&G Ventures in April 2023, with a panel of 1,000 Americans ages 18 and older.

[3] Survey conducted by Wakefield on behalf of P&G Ventures in April 2023, with a panel of 1,000 Americans ages 18 and older.

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3 ways your antiperspirant can help improve your well-being

2023-06-29T16:07:00

(BPT) – Constantly worrying whether you’re sweaty or smelly is as much an emotional challenge as it is a physical one, but sweaty pits don’t have to put a damper on your mood this summer. While it may seem (and feel) gross at times, everyone sweats, and body odor often follows. So, what can we do about it?

Many women go to great lengths to hide sweat and odor like wearing dark colors, putting panty liners or pads in their armpits, using men’s deodorant and even keeping their arms down by their sides. “For many people, excessive sweating and the fear of visible sweat stains and body odor can lead to social anxiety,” said Dr. Evan Rieder, one of three American physicians to be dual board-certified in psychiatry and dermatology. “If left unaddressed it can take an emotional toll.”

Psychodermatology studies the intersection between skin health and mental health and can be useful in understanding how pit problems can affect well-being. Luckily, with a little mindfulness and a reliable antiperspirant like Secret Clinical, stressing over sweat and odor will be a thing of the past.

Not all sweat is created equal

Your body makes three different types of sweat — stress, heat and activity sweat. When you’re hot or active, your body releases sweat made of salt and water to cool you down. But when you’re stressed, your body releases sweat that feeds odor-causing bacteria on the skin, creating that distinctive BO smell that can make you feel self-conscious. “For many people stress sweat smells the worst,” said Rieder, “so I recommend using a clinically proven antiperspirant that fights all three types of sweat and provides long-lasting odor protection.”

The mind-body-sweat connection

Ever been nervous before an important presentation, started sweating and couldn’t seem to stop? That’s an example of the mind-body-sweat connection. “Sweating is your body’s natural response to stress, heat and activity,” said Rieder, “but excessive sweating can substantially affect your quality of life and negatively impact emotional well-being.” Secret Clinical fights all three types of sweat and provides 72 hours of clinically proven sweat and odor protection so you’ll be covered no matter what the day brings.

Take control and keep your stress a secret

While it might be hard to eliminate all of life’s stressors, knowing your personal triggers can help you mitigate stress-related sweat and odor. Remember that managing your emotional well-being can impact your physical health and help you enjoy the warmer months to the fullest.

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How to Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe for Your Baby

2023-06-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – There are many reasons parents are choosing to create capsule wardrobes. A slimmed-down wardrobe with a variety of versatile, mix-and-match items for their children, especially littles, has so many benefits.

For starters, babies grow fast. It sometimes feels like they’re outgrowing clothes by the week! Having a curated, pared-down wardrobe ensures parents spend less money over time on their baby’s clothes. Another big seller is the sheer simplicity. Not only does a capsule wardrobe take up less space and help keep closets clutter-free, it also makes choosing outfits a breeze — something every parent will appreciate. (Bonus: Less clothes means fewer items to wash, fold and put away.)

But a capsule wardrobe isn’t just good for simplicity — it can also be more environmentally friendly. If you’re buying fewer clothing items, you can invest more in quality, eco-friendly clothing. Carter’s Little Planet clothing line is a return to simplicity with thoughtful essentials and timeless styles that are made of soft organic fabrics and the purest fibers.

Are you ready to spend less time shopping, washing, drying, folding and organizing clothes? Here’s how to create a baby capsule wardrobe for summer, with styles from Carter’s — the most trusted brand of apparel exclusively for babies and young children — and Little Planet.

Creating a Baby Capsule Wardrobe

1. Bodysuits

Base layers, like Carter’s best-selling bodysuits, are essential to a capsule wardrobe. Opt for a good variety, including short-sleeve, long-sleeve and sleeveless bodysuits; as well as a good mix of colors, including plain white (Carter’s No. 1 bestseller) and neutral styles that can be mixed and matched in endless ways. Pro Tip: Shop Carter’s multipack bodysuits, which come in a slew of colorways and designs.

2. Sets

Every parent knows the beauty of the set. An adorable outfit in an instant with zero thought needed, what could be better?! You can’t go wrong with the 3-Piece Panda Little Character Set or 3-Piece Little Diaper Cover Set from Carter’s new My First Love Collection, which can be mixed and matched to create multiple different looks. Shop Carter’s full selection of baby sets here!

3. Overalls/Shortalls

A must-have for your baby’s capsule wardrobe! Throw Little Planet’s signature Organic Cotton Gauze Overall Jumpsuit or Organic Gauze Shortall over any bodysuit for an easy, instant outfit. Plus, both styles come in several neutral colors, making it the perfect versatile piece.

4. Shorts/Pants

When choosing shorts and pants, go for a mix of casual, everyday styles, like Carter’s Pull-On Bubble Shorts or 2-Pack Shorts, and dressier options such as Little Planet’s Organic Cotton Twill Pants or Carter’s Twill Denim Shorts. Don’t forget leggings, too!

5. Bubbles/Rompers

One pieces are an essential part of every baby’s wardrobe! This loose-fit 1-Piece Flutter Slub Jersey Romper is a great option for summer, and has strong snaps that keep up with wear and wash. Another go-to is the Organic Gauze Bubble, the newest take on Little Planet’s most-loved gauze overalls, and complete with adjustable cross-back straps and snaps for easy diaper changes.

6. Accessories

Round out your baby’s closet with some everyday summer accessories such as sunglasses and a hat to keep the sun out of their eyes while outside; plus socks to keep their little feet warm and more.

Find all you need for your baby’s summer capsule wardrobe (and more!) at Carters.com.

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Unleash potential: Discover the benefits of agility sports for you and your dog

2023-06-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Masters Agility Championship at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, presented by Purina Pro Plan. The Masters Agility Championship is a competition that showcases the incredible speed and agility for dogs as they navigate a series of obstacles on a course they have never seen before.

This competition requires speed, skill and agility, as well as a strong relationship between dog and handler. Over 350 dogs competed, including Trainer Amber McCune, who had not one but three dogs compete in this year’s premier agility competition, named Howie, Kaboom and Shelby Cobra. All three of her dogs are Border Collies and placed in their division — which is a tremendous achievement.

While agility can be a competitive sport, you don’t have to be a champion like Amber to see the benefits. With the right training and proper nutrition anyone can try their hand at this canine sport, which is growing in popularity. Inspired and interested in learning more? McCune shares her expert insight.

Physical and mental health

Agility sports require a high level of coordination, communication and teamwork between an owner and their dog. It can strengthen the relationship between them and help to keep both fit and in peak condition. Sprinting and jumping through an obstacle course is not only fun for your dog but can help build muscle, maintain a healthy weight and provide an energy release. An agility course also exercises a dog’s mind, giving them opportunities to learn and solve problems. This can also make them more well-behaved off the course.

Looking for where to get started? You can do it yourself at home or find a trainer or training school to help your dog develop their skill sets. Once your dog has completed all levels of training, the focus is to stay fit, conditioned and healthy. “Being able to put your dog on a fitness regimen is really important because if they aren’t fit, they can get injured quickly. Just like a person,” McCune said.

She recommends general activities that dogs love like hiking or swimming to stay active without overdoing agility course practice.

Nutrition for healthy, active dogs

“Nutrition is one of the most important factors that goes into a dog’s training and health,” said McCune. “On a daily basis, my dogs Howie, Kaboom and Shelby Cobra eat Purina Pro Plan Sport to fuel their strength and stamina to take on the rigors of agility and to keep them at the top of their sport, especially when competing at this year’s Masters Agility Championship at Westminster.”

Benefits that McCune has seen in her dogs with Purina Pro Plan Sport include increased muscle mass, better acceleration, quicker muscle recovery time and a shiny coat.

Many handlers feed Purina Pro Plan as their nutrition of choice because it is backed by research and Purina experts, including more than 500 nutritionists, veterinarians and scientists. To learn more, visit Purina.com/Pro-Plan.

Relationship building

Building a close bond between owner and dog also helps form a winning team.

“I think owners start to understand that there can be multidirectional language with their dog,” said McCune. It’s a fast-moving, fun, high-intensity and disciplined sport. “I enjoy the challenge and excitement of navigating the course with my dogs and the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing each course.” The time spent training helps create a special bond between owner and dog.

“Ultimately, it’s about having fun together and enjoying the numerous benefits that come with the sport,” McCune said.

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Tired of the same old lettuce? Check out these 3 bright and fresh salad recipes

2023-06-29T10:01:00

(BPT) – Dining out can be a wonderful experience, but sometimes you just want a night in or simply don’t have the time for a sit-down meal at a restaurant. You could order takeout, but there’s a certain joy and satisfaction in recreating the same delectable dishes within the comfort of your own kitchen.

Making restaurant-style meals at home may seem daunting, but there are several dishes that you can prepare without being a culinary genius. In fact, an easy way to expand your kitchen prowess and eat fresh, tasty, restaurant-inspired meals is to try new salad recipes.

To help you explore your culinary passions and delight your taste buds, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has teamed up with Litehouse Inc. to launch five restaurant-style dressings, including Thai, Ranch, Caesar, Italian and BBQ Ranch that embody the restaurant’s spirit of creativity and convenience with a California twist, just in time for summer!

While you can use these dressings on anything you eat, it’s nice to have simple, quick, tasty recipes to try. Check out these three CPK-inspired recipes that will shake up your mealtime and encourage you to try new, bold, unique flavor profiles.

1. Thai Steak Salad

If you’re looking for a satisfying, fresh summer salad, look no further! CPK’s Thai steak salad recipe is a wonderful mix of tender meat and fresh vegetables that will keep you happy and full long after your meal. A peanut-flavored (yet peanut free!) Thai dressing like CPK’s is a must for a restaurant-style meal. You can also use the dressing for other salads, pasta dishes and as a dipping sauce for spring rolls.

2. Baja Shrimp Fajita Salad

This zesty shrimp fajita salad will have you dreaming of a seaside vacation. Tossing the shrimp in a savory spice creates a wonderful contrast to the salad’s fresh green mix. Topped with CPK’s restaurant-style ranch dressing, this salad will have you dreaming of being by the beach. Keep the bottle of ranch out to accompany your California-style pizza, a fresh Cobb salad, burgers, wings or fresh-cut veggies to elevate your at-home meal experiences!

3. Nicoise Salad

This classic French salad is a filling yet refreshing dish for lunch or dinner with plenty of protein, thanks to the hard-boiled eggs and tuna. Paired with plenty of fresh vegetables, this is a complete meal perfect for hot summer days. Don’t forget the creamy and bold CPK Caesar dressing! Not only is this dressing the key ingredient for this salad, but it’s also perfect for pasta salads and wraps.

Let these three salad recipes spark your creativity for a summer of fun, fresh meals drizzled in delicious, restaurant-style dressings for any occasion. For more inspiration about how to elevate your meals at home with new CPK salad dressings and creative recipes, visit cpkathome.com/recipe.

CPK’s new salad dressings are available at grocery retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway, Food Lion, HEB and other retailers across the U.S. Use this Instacart coupon and save on these bold and creative dressings.

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What’s new in home design? Check out these 5 exciting trends

2023-06-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you love home renovation and design, you’ll be excited to discover up-and-coming trends that are transforming the look and functionality of home spaces today. Home design is continually evolving — inspiring homeowners and design professionals to innovate and reimagine how you can live in and feel about your home.

Here are design trends to explore this year.

1. Embrace sustainability

Concern for the environment and consumer demand is spurring many companies to create more sustainable processes and materials, while ensuring that they don’t sacrifice design or durability.

For example, Cosentino Group, the Spanish global leader in production and distribution of innovative and sustainable surfaces for architecture and design, has created Silestone, with HybriQ® Technology, a high-performance blend of premium minerals, quartz and recycled materials. With HybriQ+, Silestone products have an enhanced product composition and manufacturing method that uses 99% recycled water, 100% renewable electric energy, zero water discharge and at least 20% recycled raw materials. This new technology represents the first sustainable surfacing of its kind.

2. Say goodbye to all-white kitchens

Today’s kitchens provide the focal point for entertaining, inspiring homeowners to express themselves through design, surfacing and materials. Opting for custom cabinetry colors, unique backsplash designs and dramatic countertops are subtle ways to express your personal style through kitchen design.

For more drama and style in your kitchen surfaces, Cosentino’s new Silestone Le Chic collection, launching in July, features contemporary designs in cream and rich-colored shades that are a modern interpretation of Parisian and Victorian inspired styles. Le Chic’s six distinctive colors with expressive veins and metallic accents portray a sense of timeless allure, with a hint of nostalgia.

3. Say hello to wet rooms

Dreaming of a spa-like atmosphere? The European-style wet room might be your next great bathroom reno. Creating a cohesive space for your shower and bath is a great solution to enhance design and functionality, especially in smaller bathrooms.

Durable surfacing that can be utilized for flooring and shower walls — as well as built-in seating and storage to optimize the space — can leave your bathroom feeling luxurious and worry free. Make sure your contractor is experienced in creating a well-designed wet room, including proper drainage, lighting and non-slip flooring to ensure safety.

4. Rediscover industrials

Renewed interest in urban materials like unfinished concrete is largely driven by the desire for clean lines and calm spaces. However, today’s industrials are softened by combining concrete with natural elements like wood, stone and plants.

If this aesthetic appeals to you, check out the Silestone Urban Crush collection out next month, inspired by the diverse textures of industrial and urban style. Materials like concrete, limestone, bronze and ash inspired four new colors with different shades of gray.

5. Explore mixed metals

Using metallic accents in a variety of materials and colors provides visual interest and elevates any room. Thoughtfully choose mixed metals for hardware, lighting fixtures, mirrors or picture frames. Even metallic accessories like vases, trays or artwork can enhance your space. Just a few touches of mixed metals go a long way.

Don’t match metals, but stick with the same family. For the most pleasing effect, choose only from the cool family (like brushed nickel or chrome) or the warm family (bronze, polished nickel, brass) — plus black, which can go with either family.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Learn more about innovative collections for the home at Cosentino.com.