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5 ways to implement Omega-3s in your diet this American Heart Month

2025-01-31T09:03:00

(BPT) – February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to reflect on heart-healthy habits and incorporate positive changes into your daily routine. One of the easiest ways to support your heart health is by adding more Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that support brain health, heart function and overall well-being. They help reduce inflammation in the body, lower the risk of chronic diseases — and even play a role in maintaining healthy skin. Omega-3s are also known to help improve mood and reduce stress, making them a powerful addition to a balanced diet.

To get you started, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares simple and practical tips for including more Omega-3s in your daily routine.

1. Put Omega-3s on the menu

Omega-3s are found in fish and certain types of plant-based foods. When it comes to fish, Omega-3s are found primarily in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring and tuna. So, consider planning a fish night once or twice a week where you experiment with heart-healthy recipes like baked salmon bites on a Caesar salad or mackerel & avocado tacos. For an even quicker option, add canned tuna or sardines to salads or pasta dishes for an effortless way to boost your Omega-3 intake.

2. Harness the power of smarter snacking

Need a mid-day boost or evening pick-me-up? Snacks can be an easy way to incorporate Omega-3-rich foods into your day. Add snacks such as hard-boiled eggs (especially Eggland’s Best Eggs, which have double the Omega-3’s compared to ordinary eggs), walnuts, edamame and even seaweed. Dried seaweed snacks, which are often conveniently packaged, can be eaten straight from the pack or sprinkled over popcorn for a fun twist on a classic movie night treat.

3. Do an oil change

Switching up your kitchen oils is another simple way to add more Omega-3s to your meals. Replace your usual salad dressing with an easy vinaigrette made with lemon juice and flaxseed oil or walnut oil to incorporate more Omega-3s into your diet. You can also drizzle these oils over cooked vegetables or use them as a dip for fresh bread for an added nutritional boost.

4. Sneak it in

Incorporating Omega-3s doesn’t have to disrupt your favorite recipes. Ground flaxseed or chia seeds can be easily added to smoothies, pancake batter or baked goods like muffins without altering their taste or texture. Try mixing a tablespoon of either seed into recipes you already love to give your meals a subtle but powerful Omega-3 upgrade that even picky eaters won’t notice.

5. Make every morning count

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s the perfect time to start incorporating Omega-3s. Trying a new recipe like these Breakfast Cookies from Eggland’s Best, which include heart-friendly ingredients like chia seeds, nuts and Eggland’s Best eggs, is an easy way to kickstart your day with essential nutrients.

Compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Omega-3s, which help maintain healthy blood pressure, support blood vessel function, and promote a healthy heart, along with 25% less saturated fat to support healthy blood cholesterol levels.

By implementing these tips into your day-to-day life, you can make heart health a priority this February and beyond. Small changes can have a big impact, and adding Omega-3s to your diet is a simple yet effective way to support your overall well-being.

Breakfast Cookies

Prep time: 20 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Yield: 18

Busy mornings are about to get a whole lot easier with these Breakfast Cookies. They’re full of nutrient-dense ingredients like oats, nuts, dried fruit and eggs. The best part? You can make them ahead and grab them on your way out the door in the morning!

Ingredients

  • 2 Eggland’s Best eggs, large
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup dried fruit, such as raisins, blueberries, cranberries, etc.

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line two cookie trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Whisk together coconut oil, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and almond extract in large bowl. Stir oats, all-purpose flour, almond flour, chia seeds, baking soda and salt into the wet ingredients. Stir in nuts, shredded coconut and fruit.

3. Use a 1.5 tablespoon scoop to measure dough into balls. Place the balls about 2 inches apart on prepared cookie trays.

4. Bake until cookies are set on the bottom and outside, but still look a little doughy in the middle, about 9-11 minutes, rotating the trays once halfway through.

5. Let cookies cool on the trays for 10 minutes before removing.

Using these tips, you’ll be sure to benefit from including a lot more heart-healthy Omega-3s into your diet, every day.

Eggland’s Best is a national supporter of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative. To learn more, visit EgglandsBest.com.

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Unlocking business growth: Lessons from inspiring leaders

2025-01-30T14:01:00

(BPT) – By Sarah Acton, Chief Customer Officer, BILL

One of the most exciting aspects of my role as Chief Customer Officer at BILL is learning from our customers every day. There are always new lessons, especially in today’s world of rapid change in consumer behavior, business practices and technology.

We recently hosted a group of customers to network and share their experiences regarding unlocking business growth with others. This topic proved compelling for our panelists and attendees alike, with many businesses facing some of the same challenges.

Entrepreneurs and leaders are powering through — finding ways to attract and retain customers and developing growth strategies that are working. I was particularly inspired by four pieces of advice that any organization can implement to win.

Understanding your customer

SFJAZZ reminded me that knowing what your customers want, expect and are willing to pay for is music to any organization’s ears.

Based in San Francisco and now in its 41st year, SFJAZZ is the largest non-profit jazz presenter in the world. Originally founded in 1983 as a two-day festival, SFJAZZ serves over a quarter of a million fans and students every year through its year-round concert, commissioning and education programs.

SFJAZZ CEO Greg Stern has built the nonprofit’s success on understanding his audience of jazz fans and artists, connecting with local communities in San Francisco, and finding ways as a nonprofit to build a revenue stream from patrons and donations.

Greg knows that San Franciscans want more jazz, more often. SFJAZZ produces 400 shows a year between two state-of-the-art venues tailored for jazz appreciation. Fans are busy — so shows are generally 90 minutes long, giving people time to enjoy a break and still make it home to go to school or work the next day. He knows his audience wants to feel connected to the community, so outreach through education and artist development are integral to the SFJAZZ mission.

SFJAZZ now has one of the highest rates of audience-sponsored revenue in the artistic nonprofit arena. Donations and sponsors are still important, but knowing what customers want has given SFJAZZ a unique advantage in being self-funding (through ticket sales) for a large part of its operation.

Creating product-marketing fit

Second, create product-market fit. Not every organization nails this. Some try to create a fit over time or believe so much in their own innovation that they power forward, unsure why revenue is slow to keep pace. Sasha Orloff, co-founder and CEO of Puzzle, has been hyper-focused on product-market fit since before the company even shipped.

Sasha knew he wanted to upend the status quo in bookkeeping and accounting. Artificial intelligence (AI) and rapid technological change were creating opportunities for new ways to handle finance, but accounting software wasn’t keeping pace with the rest of the tech world. While Sasha understood some of the frustrations, he explored deeply what customers would want by tackling product development from a variety of perspectives.

He leaned hard into the Sean Ellis methodology, a fast and effective way to evaluate the consistency of a particular product in the market, by taking best practices from the methodology and applying them effectively. He surveyed and had deep conversations with business entrepreneurs and founders to understand what they were missing from legacy accounting technologies. Then he talked with the people who would use any accounting technology on a daily basis and got close to accountants and bookkeepers.

His efforts have paid off tremendously. Puzzle is now positioned as the modern accounting platform for the AI era, enabling its customers to get financials and insights every day. Importantly, Puzzle is trusted by the industry and thousands of start-ups and has auto-categorized $30B+ of transactions.

Remaining flexible

Third, remain flexible. Business is going to change every day — twists and turns are normal. Christine Tedstrom, Senior Director of Finance at apparel powerhouse Marine Layer, tells other business leaders and colleagues to look at long-term value creation and not just short-term gains. The only way to achieve those goals is to acknowledge that flexibility is essential to great outcomes — and while plans are super, they will have to adapt.

A well-known host of a fashion reality show used to say that in fashion, “one day you’re in and the next you’re out.” As an innovative, California-inspired retailer focused on sustainability and recycled materials, Marine Layer’s leadership makes sure they stay absolutely “in” by committing to great products, keen market tracking and business understanding delivered with financial data. They know when to stay the course with a decision and they know when to pivot or change direction.

Marine Layer has created massive success with “absurdly soft shirts that are perfect for a 7-day weekend kinda lifestyle.” The company started when the founder’s girlfriend threw away his favorite shirt and grew with the help of friends and a ’69 VW bus. What was once a shirt company now spans almost every type of apparel.

Flexibility can take you to successes and growth you didn’t anticipate.

Making decisions in real-time

Fourth, make decisions in real-time. This is the counsel of Kate Hultin-Schott, Director, Consulting at Armanino LLP. Armanino is one of the top 25 largest independent accounting and business consulting firms in the United States. They are a nationwide leader serving privately held companies and private individuals, as well as nonprofit organizations and public entities. Kate is a fan of historical trend analysis and looking at trends over quarters. But she is justifiably frustrated when companies make decisions based on old data. She questions why we demand real-time data from every other aspect of our lives — sports scores, weather, traffic — but are fine waiting days, weeks or even months for business data.

To Kate, real-time is the time that matters most. Yes, it is important to combine real-time with historical data and context (no one wants to mistake a blip for a trend), but not having fast, reliable data that presents the “now” is a miss.

With more than 12,000 customers, over 2,500 valued employees, and 21 offices in the U.S., keeping up with what is happening in the moment has obviously paid off.

I hope these lessons for unlocking business growth inspire you as they’ve inspired me. And I hope they unlock your own organization’s success.

When SMBs thrive, so do their communities. At BILL we are dedicated to serving the needs of SMBs and accountants so they can focus more on running their businesses and serving customers. To learn more, visit Bill.com.

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4 realistic resolutions for working parents to consider in 2025

2025-01-30T10:33:00

(BPT) – The 2024 U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory shed light on the immense amount of stress parents are under. Part of this is due to the pressure that comes with raising children, working and wanting to be a high performer in every aspect of life. With the new year in full swing, now is a great time to make small, attainable resolutions that have the power to lower stress levels, enhance well-being and improve family dynamics.

“Letting your child see you relax, play and take things a little less seriously is a great way to model behavior that they can emulate someday,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy®.

Here are a few realistic resolutions to help you get started:

1. Find out what your child is learning in school and connect it to your life at home.

A conversation with your child care provider is an easy way to extend what your child is learning beyond the walls of the classroom. For example, if you know the curriculum is highlighting bears one week in school, you can base your home activities around that same learning. Make a “bear snack” of apples dipped in honey, build a “bear cave” out of blankets or simply crawl around on the floor growling like bears. Transferring learning greatly benefits your child and takes the guesswork out of at-home playtime while supporting continued development.

2. Spend more time playing.

According to research from Kiddie Academy, 56% of parents indicate that they feel guilty for not spending enough time with their children, while 26% struggle to teach things like critical thinking skills, helping their little ones create connections with others (25%) and building confidence (23%). All of these skills can be learned through child-led play where your child’s imagination is left to wander and create. Instead of feeling the need to schedule structured activities, take this as an opportunity to enjoy the learning-through-play process with your little one.

3. Read one book a day with your child at home.

One of the most beneficial things you can do at home for your child’s education is to read at least one book together every day. According to research from The Ohio State University, children whose parents read to them on a daily basis hear nearly 300,000 words by the time they turn five years old. By reading more with your child this year, you’ll not only contribute to their healthy development, but you’ll also get to spend extra quality time together.

Setting a quiet family reading time each day is another beneficial practice — for both children and parents. During this time, bring out developmentally appropriate books, like “I Spy” for children who can’t read independently yet and early reader books for older children, and grab a book for yourself as well.

4. Give yourself a break.

Including your child in more tasks around the house that you would typically complete alone can help teach responsibility and independence that can eventually alleviate some of the parental workload. While it might take a little time at the start, your little ones can help with small tasks like putting laundry in the hamper and cleaning up toys.

Don’t forget to take a break from parenting — both physically and mentally. Schedule time to step away — even if it’s just taking an hour to do something for yourself before you pick up your child for the day — and remind yourself that you’re doing a good job.

“Working parents face unique challenges in managing their time and resources to take care of their families,” said Turner. “Leaning on their village, whether that’s family, friends or a child care provider, can help them balance the emotional and physical demands of parenting while freeing up time for them to enjoy being with their children.”

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When searching for a surgeon, look for the letters F-A-C-S

2025-01-30T14:01:00

(BPT) – By Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS

Executive Director & CEO, American College of Surgeons

When you or a loved one is scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure, you desire confidence that your surgeon is highly skilled, well-trained and prepared to deliver the highest quality care.

Surgery may feel overwhelming, regardless of age or health status. With so many factors to consider, one reliable method to inspire confidence is to select a surgeon with the letters F-A-C-S after their name. This designation means that the surgeon is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the largest surgical organization in the world. The ACS has, for more than one hundred years, set the standards for high-quality surgical care.

What does FACS mean?

Earning the FACS designation involves a rigorous application process, verification of credentials, review of a surgical case log, recommendations by colleagues, and interviews conducted by a panel of experts. These steps ensure that surgeons meet and uphold the highest standards of surgical care and ethics.

By choosing a Fellow of the ACS, you are selecting a surgeon who meets and exceeds standard qualifications, such as board certification. The FACS designation is a higher bar.

Who are the Fellows of the ACS?

The ACS currently has more than 93,000 members worldwide. Fellows provide care in settings ranging from small rural clinics to large academic medical centers. Fellows of the ACS are also represented throughout all of the surgical specialties.

Fellows have reached many milestones in surgery, both past and present, and been at the forefront of medical breakthroughs for more than 100 years. In 1935, Columbia University surgeon Allen Whipple, MD, FACS, was the first American to perform a complex operation for treating pancreatic cancer — a procedure that bears his name today. Alton Ochsner, MD, FACS, made the first link between tobacco and lung cancer — in 1939. Cardiac surgeon Bartley P. Griffith, MD, FACS, performed the first successful pig-to-human heart transplant in the world in 2022. The bottom line is that Fellows of the College make it a point to stay at the head of the class so that they can provide their patients with the best possible care.

Why does the FACS designation matter?

Providing high-quality surgical care for our patients has been the focus of the American College of Surgeons since our founding in 1913, and this prioritization continues today. From surgical education and research to patient access, hospital standardization and clinical care, the ACS has remained a global leader in advancing the field of surgery.

When you see FACS after a surgeon’s name, those four letters represent the gold standard in surgical quality. FACS indicates that the surgeon’s education and training, professional qualifications, surgical competence and ethical conduct meet the high standards established by the American College of Surgeons.

When you prepare for surgery, one of your questions should be “Is my surgeon a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons?”

Visit www.facs.org to find a Fellow the next time you need surgical care.

Patricia L. Turner is the Executive Director & CEO of the American College of Surgeons, the largest professional association of surgeons in the world, founded in 1913.

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Transform Your Garden in 2025 with These 10 Award-Winning Plants and Products

2025-01-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – As winter turns into spring, it’s time for gardeners to consider which plants they’ll cultivate in planters, pots and gardens. If you’re in the midst of planning your garden and need inspiration, Green Thumb Award-winning products are a great place to get inspiration.

The Green Thumb Award is an annual competition recognizing outstanding and innovative new plants and garden products. Winners are selected through two categories: the People’s Choice Award, voted on by the public, and the Professional Choice Award, determined by a panel of expert horticulturists from the National Garden Bureau (NGB).

Whether you’re a novice or an old pro, check out these 10 remarkable plants and tools that can help you take your gardening to the next level in 2025.

1. Calibrachoa LIA™ Abstract Lemon Cherry

The LIA™ Abstract Lemon Cherry Calibrachoa is the newest addition to the LIA™ series. It dazzles with vibrant golden-yellow blooms accented by a bold cherry-red splash, making it an irresistible choice for any garden. Designed with a controlled, semi-trailing growth habit, this lovely annual variety is perfectly suited for hanging baskets and combinations.

Calibrachoa, with its bright yellow and red flowers, planted in a terra cotta pot.

2. Broccoli Purple Magic F1

Purple Magic is the first purple-stem, purple-headed broccoli in the world! These nutritious large, dome-shaped heads weigh about 1 pound each and are very high in anthocyanin — a plant-based chemical called a flavonoid thought to be useful in preventing cancer and inflammation. This annual grows well in all regions of the U.S. and matures about 90 days after harvest from transplant.

Sakata Broccoli Purple Magic with its deep purple stems and greenish purple flowerettes.

3. Crescent Too® Circular Positive Planter Collection

Winner of both the People’s Choice and Professional’s Choice awards in the garden product category, the Crescent Too® Circular Positive™ planter collection is revolutionary. Each planter is made with UBQ™, a climate-positive material upcycled from landfill waste, helping gardeners of all levels minimize waste. With TruDrop Flex Self-Watering Containers and Emma Planters, these products promote a circular economy and sustainable consumption.

An arrangement of five planted pots with various colors and textures of flora on a lovely stone patio.

4. Philodendron Prismacolor™ Orange You Gorgeous™

Winner of both the People’s Choice and Professional’s Choice awards in the houseplant category, this tropical philodendron is a living kaleidoscope of citrus-inspired colors with a warm orangey glow reminiscent of a sunrise over a tropical grove. Its elongated, spade-shaped leaves emerge with a mottled bright orange color, then slowly fade to a marbled tapestry of gold and green, brightening your space even in the dim days of winter.

A Prismacolor Orange-you-Gorgeous Philodendron in a small pot.

5. Butterfly Bush Little Rockstars Red

Check out the Butterfly Bush Little Rockstars Red, a People’s Choice-winning perennial that is part of a new compact series of Buddleia. Its beautiful, large, cone-shaped inflorescences are perfect for small pot production, offering a complete color assortment and all-season flowering.

Dummen Orange Butterfly Bush Little Rockstars Red planted in a garden with other flowers.

6. Hydrangea FlowerFull® Smooth

The FlowerFull® Smooth Hydrangea stands out with bold blooms and sturdy upright stems that won’t flop in the wind and rain. With two to three times more blooms per season than other smooth hydrangeas, this perennial shrub makes an outstanding focal point plant for your garden. Disease-resistant, low-maintenance, and maturing at just 3 to 4 feet tall, it’s the perfect choice for small and big landscapes.

Bailey Hydrangea FlowerFull Smooth, with its while puffy flowers, planted in a garden.

7. Cosmos Sea Shells Red

Cosmos Sea Shells Red is a charming and unique flower that brings a delightful touch to any garden. This Professional’s Choice winner is known for its distinctive, tubular petals that resemble seashells. Its beautiful palette of soft pinks and whites adds a romantic flair to flower beds and arrangements. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers and offer a long vase life (7-10 days) that ensures that you can enjoy their beauty indoors as well.

Sahin Cosmos Sea Shell Red with its cylandrical petals and bright yellow center planted in a garden.

8. Basil Everleaf Lemon

Basil Everleaf Lemon is the first lemon basil bred for this collection, which features basil plants that are tall, upright and highly branched, offering plenty of harvest potential. This particular annual is very late to flower — up to eight weeks later than standard basil — so you can enjoy its tasty leaves all season long. Its bright lemon flavor is a perfect addition to dressings, marinades and fresh salads. This versatile plant performs well in ground and in patio containers.

PanAmerican Basil Everleaf planted in a garden.

9. Hellebore JWLS Endless

Hellebores are a must-have plant for gardeners wishing to join in on this year’s Garden of Nostalgia and Romance design trend. This plant was selected as a Professional’s Choice winner for its abundant and long-lasting blooms and features glossy, dark green foliage topped with upward-facing flowers that start out green and transition to a beautiful white. Best of all? This perennial variety offers an extended bloom season in zones 5-9.

Close-up of Monrovia-Hellebore-Endless and its pretty white flowers.

10. Burning Bush Fire Ball Seedless™

Burning Bush Fire Ball Seedless is the only seedless, sterile, non-invasive burning bush (Euonymus alatus) on the market! Developed by Dr. Tom Ranney and his crew at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research Station in North Carolina, this shrub has won the Professional’s Choice award for being truly innovative. It has all the durability and inferno-red color that you expect from burning bush but no risk of spreading into wild areas like its conventional counterparts.

Spring Meadow Burning Bush planted in a landscaped area.

Whether you choose one (or all) of these extraordinary plants and products, your indoor and outdoor green spaces will be sure to please and impress. To learn more, visit NGB.org.

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Want a luxury bathroom? Opt for modular designs

2025-01-29T06:01:02

(BPT) – Bathrooms are more than just a necessity of modern living. It’s true that they’re practical spaces, but practicality doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice luxury.

Creating a bathroom that combines functionality and luxury isn’t difficult if you use the right design principles. George Wahlgren, Director of Product Development of Robern — a manufacturer of bespoke bathroom furnishings and fixtures — has answered a few questions to shed some light on how incorporating modular designs and products into your bathroom can enhance the space.

What are the benefits of modular design for bathrooms?

Modular design can enhance the look and feel of any bathroom especially when creating personalized spaces. Robern was the first in developing and commercializing modular storage and styling systems. So, it will come as no surprise that our designers and engineers know a thing or two about the benefits of modular design for customers.

There are many advantages to using modular designs in building or renovating a bathroom. For example, modular bathroom features can help seamlessly integrate various design components — such as different textures, finishes, materials and colors — while maintaining a cohesive and polished look.

Modular designs also offer the flexibility to maximize space in a bathroom, creating a sense of openness and elegance, giving people a chance to enjoy the benefits of functionality and personal expression. That includes customizable lighting and integrated technology.

Robern is a leader in modular design and the luxury bathroom space. How would you describe the company’s modular design ethos?

Robern’s modular design ethos is rooted in a long history of delivering a sophisticated blend of luxury, functionality and personalization. We design, engineer and manufacture all modular products in-house, ensuring a meticulous level of quality and seamless integration across our lines.

It’s these elements of our design ethos that allow Robern to stand apart and deliver exceptional products and services for our customers. With a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship, every product we offer can help transform a bathroom into a refined sanctuary that inspires and elevates everyday life.

We’re also committed to a holistic approach by combining cohesive design elements with a suite of complementary products. Robern ensures that every bathroom feels thoughtfully unified, functional and luxurious.

What luxury bathroom trends or features do you expect to see in 2025?

This year, we’re going to see bathrooms go beyond the basics and become more dynamic, multifunctional retreats. Whether they incorporate saunas, dressing rooms, beauty stations or home fitness areas, these versatile spaces will focus on offering a holistic experience.

Along the same lines, wellness and relaxation will take center stage in bathroom design in 2025. The idea of the bathroom as a sanctuary is stronger than ever, with spa-like atmospheres creating an escape from the stresses of daily life.

A major part of the spa-ification of bathrooms relies on providing an immersive sensory experience. You’ll see more bathrooms with dimmable lighting systems, allowing users to adjust the color and intensity of light based on their mood or activity.

As part of the sensory experience, designers lean toward a mix of natural materials and finishes, offering clients textural variation. Whether that’s achieved through contrasting textures or carefully curated patterns, bathroom designs will trend toward richness and luxury.

In terms of colors, you’ll see more deep hues and gold accents. Statement hardware, like pieces from the Robern Islamorada collection, add a distinctive, artistic flair, giving the space a unique, customized identity.

What are some modular bathroom products you’re excited for customers to try?

There are plenty of products I could suggest, but I’ll stick to our bread and butter: cabinets. The Modular Cabinets M Series Reserve collection includes products that are sophisticated and versatile, raising the bar for bathroom storage and blending advanced technology with thoughtful design.

Customers should also take a look at our InLine 2.0 Lighting collection. Lighting can make a huge difference in the practicality and ambiance of a bathroom. Robern offers beautiful vertical and sconce lighting options to complement any design and flawlessly pair with our medicine cabinets and mirrors for exceptional design flexibility.

No bathroom would be complete without a vanity. Our Cartesian and Profiles modular vanities offer luxurious personalization that is specially made for your space.

The Cartesian line features wall-mounted, floating vanities with clean lines that are an ideal centerpiece for your bathroom. If you’re looking to add a little drama to your space, opt for statement pieces like the Profiles modular vanities.

I would encourage every customer looking at our products to use our 3D Visualizer tool. This intuitive design tool empowers users to envision and create their ideal bathroom sanctuary with precision and ease. The online tool can streamline your product selection, enhance your decision making and allow you to share your designs with contractors, designers or family members, ensuring everyone involved is aligned on the project vision for a truly luxurious bathroom.

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How Type 2 Inflammation Contributes to Asthma, COPD, and Allergic Conditions

2025-01-29T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you live with persistent, moderate-to-severe asthma, COPD, allergies, eczema or hives? Inflammation is often a major factor in the severity of your symptoms. It could also be a factor if your condition is hard to treat. When inflammation is severe and causes difficult-to-control symptoms, it’s called Type 2 inflammation.

Type 2 inflammation could be the underlying cause of your condition. It could also be the reason you have more than one condition.

What is Type 2 inflammation?

Type 2 inflammation is an overactive immune response that causes excess inflammation in the body. It plays a key role in many allergic, respiratory and skin diseases.

Type 2 inflammation is believed to be caused by genetic and environmental factors. It can be triggered by allergens (pollen, mold, dust mites, or pet dander) and irritants (pollutants). It can also arise from viruses and bacteria, weather changes, stress or exercise. Sometimes inflammation may occur without an apparent trigger.

Health conditions that may be affected by Type 2 inflammation include:

Symptoms involving Type 2 inflammation vary depending on your condition. Chronic inflammation can lead to long-term symptoms and tissue damage if it is not well managed.

What is the science behind Type 2 inflammation?

Type 2 inflammation can be driven by high levels of antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). It can also be driven by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell.

IgE is designed to help the body fight off allergens, certain irritants, and parasitic infections. It binds to immune cells such as mast cells and basophils that trigger the release of histamine and proteins called cytokines. This can cause Type 2 inflammation that is severe and chronic, especially in allergic conditions.

Other key cytokines (called IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) recruit and activate the eosinophils. When there are too many eosinophils in the blood, they can contribute to severe or ongoing Type 2 inflammation.

How do you know if you have Type 2 inflammation?

If you think your condition is affected by Type 2 inflammation, talk with a doctor, preferably a specialist such as an allergist. Doctors can diagnose Type 2 inflammation through blood tests that measure IgE and eosinophil levels. High levels indicate that Type 2 inflammation is present.

If you have asthma or COPD, a breathing test for your lungs called fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) can also indicate Type 2 inflammation.

What treatments are recommended for Type 2 inflammation?

Medications are available for people with diseases caused or worsened by Type 2 inflammation. Biologics are increasingly prescribed to help treat these conditions. They are used when standard treatments like corticosteroids or antihistamines are not effective. Biologics work at the cellular level, with the goal of stopping symptoms before they can start. They aim to reduce the levels of IgE and/or eosinophils that cause inflammation in the body.

It’s important to work together with your doctor to decide what course of treatment is best for you. Consider the severity of your symptoms and discuss what previous medications or treatments you have tried. Your healthcare provider can help you find out if Type 2 inflammation is connected to your medical condition.

Learn more at Type2Inflammation.org.

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For seniors: One simple step to protect your health and wallet in 2025

2025-01-28T06:01:00

(BPT) – Navigating the rising cost of prescriptions can feel like a challenge, but savvy seniors know there’s a smarter way to manage healthcare expenses in 2025. The new Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) offers a simple, stress-free solution to help retirees protect both their wallets and their health.

This innovative program that just launched January 1 allows Medicare Part D beneficiaries to spread out-of-pocket prescription costs into manageable, interest-free monthly payments throughout the plan year. With the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan, enrollees can avoid large bills at the pharmacy counter and still get the medications they need to stay physically and financially healthy.

A smart financial strategy

Managing healthcare costs in retirement is all about thoughtful planning. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan provides the financial flexibility seniors need by allowing them to pay $0 upfront at the pharmacy and settle prescription costs in monthly installments. This makes budgeting easier and eliminates the financial strain of large, often unexpected, payments for medications. It’s especially helpful for anyone who will hit their $2,000 out-of-pocket cap early in the plan year.

Better health through access

Skipping medications due to cost is a dangerous gamble, and yet one in five older adults faces this reality. Staying consistent with medications helps manage chronic conditions and reduces the risk of serious health complications. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan makes that possible by removing financial barriers to prescriptions so seniors can stick to treatments without interruption.

Peace of mind for you and your loved ones

The stress of managing large prescription drug costs can take a toll on mental and physical health. M3P brings peace of mind by offering predictable, manageable payments that more easily fit into monthly budgets. This program makes the process straightforward and stress-free both for seniors and those helping with their finances.

It all boils down to this: More control over finances, health and independence at zero cost.

“The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan is a major step toward ensuring seniors can access the medications they need without the burden of financial uncertainty,” said Brian Whorley, CEO of Paytient, one of the companies administering the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan. “This program isn’t just about affordability — it’s about giving individuals the peace of mind to focus on their health and independence, knowing their prescription costs are manageable and predictable.”

Ready to take the first step?

To participate, you’ll need to opt in. Learn more and sign up at Rx.Paytient.com. Starting in 2025, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your prescription costs are under control.

Seniors don’t have to sacrifice financial stability or their well-being in 2025. Now is the perfect time to join this program and have assurance that prescription costs are under control.

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Resilience and Hope: Gail’s Journey with Multiple Myeloma

2025-01-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – For years, 69-year-old Gail from Houston has started her mornings with devotion and exercise. Her love for family and community shines through in everything she does as she dedicates her time to volunteering, reading, mentoring members of her church group, and nurturing her garden.

In 2010, everything changed. While on a trip, Gail felt a tingling sensation in her wrist but didn’t think much of it. On the way home, the tingling spread to her right shoulder and eventually developed into a deeper pain that would not go away.

“That’s when things began to change,” Gail says.

Once home, she sought medical attention. Her doctor ordered X-rays that identified lesions on her shoulder. She was quickly referred to a hematologist, who ordered blood work and a bone marrow biopsy. Gail was in shock when the doctors diagnosed her with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer where patients typically experience multiple relapses, with fewer treatment options available after each one.

In the beginning, Gail didn’t know what multiple myeloma was and had to advocate for herself and ask lots of questions of her care team.

“In those early days, I just wanted to get treatment and then get on with my life. I was scared, but I said to myself, ‘I’m going to beat it, whatever it takes.’ And I still have that mentality,” Gail says. “My doctor told me I probably wouldn’t live another five years, and I told her that would not be the case with me.”

Since her diagnosis, Gail often struggles with activities she loves given fatigue and other symptoms from her disease but maintains a positive attitude and hope about her future.

“I can still do the things I want to — I can go in my yard, look at my flowers and just enjoy them. For anyone dealing with this — don’t give up,” she says.

Nearly 14 years later, though, Gail is still living with and fighting this incurable disease.

“I love living, I love living well and I have learned so much about life,” she says.

The treatment landscape for multiple myeloma has changed significantly in recent years, with newer treatments like bispecific antibody therapies that are making a difference for patients and changing how the disease is treated.

Throughout Gail’s journey with multiple myeloma, she has experienced several relapses and has gone through multiple lines of therapy. Her doctor recently introduced TALVEY® (talquetamab-tgvs) to her treatment plan.

TALVEY® is a prescription medicine to treat adults with multiple myeloma who have already received at least 4 treatment regimens, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody to treat their multiple myeloma, and their cancer has come back or did not respond to prior treatment. TALVEY® is approved based on patient response. Data are not yet available to show if TALVEY® improves survival or symptoms. It is not known if TALVEY® is safe and effective in children.

TALVEY® is a bispecific antibody therapy, a type of medicine that targets two different proteins in the body. TALVEY® is the only therapy available that attaches to a protein called GPRC5D, which is found on multiple myeloma cells as well as some healthy cells in the body. It also binds to proteins called CD3 found on T-cells, a type of immune cell. Binding to both proteins may activate the immune system to help destroy the multiple myeloma cells. TALVEY® is available as an every-two-week or once-weekly subcutaneous injection after an initial step-up dosing phase. Once the patient and their care team have chosen a treatment plan, they begin a step-up dosing schedule where the patient receives the first 2 or 3 doses of TALVEY® at a smaller dose and increases up to the full treatment dose. Patients should be hospitalized for at least 48 hours after administration of all doses within the step-up dosing schedule, which allows them to be monitored for any potential serious or life-threatening side effects, including cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurologic problems. If you are being treated with TALVEY®, talk to your healthcare provider if you think you may be experiencing any signs or symptoms of a side effect.

TALVEY® was studied in 219 people with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who had previously been on at least four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. People in the clinical trial received TALVEY® either as a once-every-two-weeks dose or once-weekly dose. 73.6% of patients receiving TALVEY® every two weeks responded to treatment. For patients receiving a weekly dose, 73% responded to treatment.

During her hospital stay for the initial step-up dosing phase of treatment, Gail’s care team supported her and answered her questions to make her feel comfortable and help prepare her for continued treatment on TALVEY®, and to educate her on the signs and symptoms of potential side effects. Gail has been on TALVEY® since December 2023, and her myeloma continues to respond to treatment.

“My doctor is happy with my recent test results. I love my doctor and appreciate that she’s very honest. I have so much confidence in her,” Gail says. “My doctor keeps telling me to keep up what I’m doing, and keep up my positivity and spirit. It’s like my personality is back.”

As a patient on TALVEY®, Gail recognizes that there are some challenges with being treated for multiple myeloma.

In addition to CRS and neurotoxicity, side effects that may occur with TALVEY® include mouth problems, such as taste alterations, dry mouth, weight loss, or skin changes. Along with working with your treatment team, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has a tip sheet with recommendations on how to cope with common side effects affecting the mouth and skin with cancer treatment. For more information about being treated with TALVEY® and to access support and resources, including coping tips for patients, visit www.talvey.com.

“Side effects can be difficult and may be different for everyone. It is important to work with your treatment team to help manage them. You can do it,” Gail says.

Gail continues to share her experience with her myeloma support group and mentors others who are living with this disease.

“Mentoring is important to me because there are so many people hurting when they are diagnosed, and they don’t always see the light at the end of the tunnel,” Gail says. “You have to hear it from someone who knows what it’s like to live with this disease. And since I do, I want to share my experience with others so that they know there is hope. I live hope.”

Please review the Important Safety Information and see the full Prescribing Information including the Boxed Warning below. You can talk to your doctor if you have any questions. For more information, visit www.Talvey.com.

If one of Johnson & Johnson’s treatments has made a difference in your life or the life of a loved one, consider joining the SHARE Network. Every story is unique. If you or a loved one are living with multiple myeloma, your story could have the ability to provide hope and inspiration to other patients. To learn more about the SHARE Network and how to share your story, visit www.sharemyjanssenstory.com.

What is TALVEY® (talquetamab-tgvs)?

TALVEY® is a prescription medicine to treat adults with multiple myeloma who:

  • have already received at least 4 treatment regimens, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody to treat their multiple myeloma, and
  • their cancer has come back or did not respond to prior treatment

TALVEY® is approved based on patient response. Data are not yet available to show if TALVEY® improves survival or symptoms.
It is not known if TALVEY® is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TALVEY®?

TALVEY® may cause side effects that are serious, life-threatening, or lead to death, including Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) and neurologic problems.

Call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you develop any of the signs or symptoms of CRS or neurologic problems listed below at any time during your treatment with TALVEY®:

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). CRS is common during treatment with TALVEY® and can also be serious or life-threatening. Signs and symptoms of CRS may include:

  • fever (100.4°F or higher)
  • feeling anxious
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • headache
  • chills
  • fast heartbeat
  • difficulty breathing

Neurologic problems. Symptoms of neurologic problems with TALVEY® may include:

  • headache
  • feeling sleepy
  • feeling confused
  • feeling very sleepy with low energy
  • being less alert or aware
  • slow or difficulty thinking
  • feeling disoriented
  • seizures
  • trouble speaking or writing
  • muscle weakness
  • shaking (tremors)
  • memory loss
  • numbness and tingling (feeling like “pins and needles”)
  • burning, throbbing, or stabbing pain
  • Due to the risk of CRS and neurologic problems, you should be hospitalized for 48 hours after all doses of TALVEY® that are part of the “step-up dosing schedule.” The “step-up dosing schedule” is when you receive the first 2 or 3 doses of TALVEY®, which are smaller “step-up” doses, and also the first full “treatment dose” of TALVEY®.
  • TALVEY® is given weekly or every 2 weeks. Your healthcare provider will decide the number of days to wait between your doses of TALVEY® as well as how many treatments you will receive.
    • If you receive TALVEY® weekly, “Step-up dose 1” is given on day 1 of treatment. “Stepup dose 2” is usually given on day 4 of treatment. The first “treatment dose” is usually given on day 7 of treatment.
    • If you receive TALVEY® every 2 weeks, “Step-up dose 1” is given on day 1 of treatment. “Step-up dose 2” is usually given on day 4 of treatment. “Step-up dose 3” is usually given on day 7 of treatment. The first “treatment dose” is usually given on day 10 of treatment.
  • If your dose of TALVEY® is delayed for any reason, you may need to repeat the “step-up dosing schedule” to receive TALVEY®.
  • Before each “step up” dose of TALVEY®, you will receive medicines to help reduce your risk of CRS. Your healthcare provider will decide if you need to receive medicines to help reduce your risk of CRS with future doses.
  • Your healthcare provider will monitor you for signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic problems as well as other side effects, and treat you as needed.

TALVEY® is available only through the TECVAYLI® and TALVEY® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) due to the risk of CRS and neurologic problems.

You will receive a Patient Wallet Card from your healthcare provider. Carry the Patient Wallet Card with you at all times and show it to all of your healthcare providers. The Patient Wallet Card lists signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic problems.

Get medical help right away if you develop any of the signs and symptoms listed on the Patient Wallet Card. You may need to be treated in a hospital.

  • If you have any questions about TALVEY®, ask your healthcare provider.
  • Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop or completely stop your treatment with TALVEY® if you develop CRS, neurologic problems, or any other side effects that are severe.

See “What are the possible side effects of TALVEY®?” for more information about side effects.

Before you receive TALVEY®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have an infection
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. TALVEY® may harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or think that you may be pregnant during treatment with TALVEY®.

Females who are able to become pregnant:

    • Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with TALVEY®.
    • You should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of TALVEY®.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TALVEY® passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of TALVEY®.

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

How will I receive TALVEY®?

  • TALVEY® will be given to you by your healthcare provider as an injection under your skin (subcutaneous injection), usually in the stomach area (abdomen). TALVEY® may also be injected into your thigh or another area of your body.
  • See “What is the most important information I should know about TALVEY®?” at the beginning of the Medication Guide for information about how you will receive TALVEY®.
  • If you miss any appointments, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.

What should I avoid while receiving TALVEY®?

Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities during and for 48 hours after your TALVEY® “step-up dose” is completed or at any time during treatment with TALVEY®, if you develop dizziness, confusion, tremors, sleepiness, or any other symptoms that impair consciousness, until your signs and symptoms go away. These may be signs and symptoms of CRS or neurologic problems.

See “What is the most important information I should know about TALVEY®?” for more information about signs and symptoms of CRS and neurologic problems.

What are the possible side effects of TALVEY®?

TALVEY® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • See “What is the most important information I should know about TALVEY®?”
  • Mouth problems and weight loss. Tell your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of mouth problems:
    • changes in sense of taste
    • dry mouth
    • trouble swallowing
    • mouth sores

Your healthcare provider will monitor you for these symptoms and will monitor your weight during treatment with TALVEY®. Tell your healthcare provider if you lose weight during treatment with TALVEY®.

  • Infections. TALVEY® can cause serious infections that can be life-threatening and may lead to death. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for signs and symptoms of infection before and during treatment with TALVEY®. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get or develop any signs or symptoms of infection during treatment with TALVEY®, including:
    • fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
    • chills
    • cough
    • chest pain
    • tiredness
    • shortness of breath
    • painful rash
    • sore throat
    • pain during urination
    • feeling weak or generally unwell
  • Decreased blood cell counts. Decreased blood cell counts are common during treatment with TALVEY® and can also be severe. Your healthcare provider will check your blood cell counts during treatment with TALVEY®.
  • Skin problems. Skin problems are common during treatment with TALVEY® and can also be serious. Tell your healthcare provider if you get skin problems such as skin rash, raised red bumps, or redness of the skin.
  • Liver problems. Abnormal liver tests can happen during treatment with TALVEY®. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests before and during treatment with TALVEY® to check your liver. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop any of the following symptoms of liver problems:
    • tiredness
    • loss of appetite
    • pain in your right upper stomach area (abdomen)
    • dark urine
    • yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes

The most common side effects of TALVEY® include:

  • changes in your sense of taste
  • nail problems
  • muscle and joint pain
  • feeling very tired
  • weight loss
  • dry mouth
  • fever
  • very dry skin that may affect the mucous membranes (such as the mouth and eyes)
  • difficulty swallowing
  • infected nose, sinuses or throat (cold)
  • diarrhea

The most common severe abnormal lab test results with TALVEY® include decreased white blood cells and red blood cells. These are not all the possible side effects of TALVEY®.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

For Digital assets:

Please read full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning, for TALVEY®.

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4 expert skincare tips to unlock and restore youthful skin with America’s #1 Most Awarded Retinol

2025-01-28T11:01:00

(BPT) – As you age, your needs change, and that includes your skincare. Gone are the oily, acne-prone skin issues of youth. Instead, you’re dealing with dry, dull skin and the onset of lines and wrinkles.

You can thank collagen for plump, youthful and firm skin. But as you become older, your collagen levels begin to break down, which can impact your skin’s elasticity and lead to visible creases and wrinkles. While you can’t stop the hands of time, you can restore your collagen levels with the right skincare regimen. Check out these four tips below to help you get started:

1. Cleanse in the morning and at night

When making changes to your skincare regimen, begin by choosing a daily cleanser. An oil-based cleanser is ideal for mature skin as it cleans and hydrates without stripping the skin of its natural oils, which is crucial for drier and wrinkle-prone skin.

Your evening cleansing is even more important, as it’s crucial to cleanse your skin of makeup and pollutants at the end of the day and prepare your skin for your nighttime regimen.

2. Don’t skip SPF

No matter what stage you’re at in life, incorporating SPF products into your morning routine is essential for skin protection year-round and strongly recommended by dermatologists. Even if you don’t stay out in the sun often, protecting your face from UV/UVB ray damage can help prevent premature aging, sunburn, skin cancer, and collagen loss.

Choose a product with SPF 30 or higher, like RoC Retinol Correxion® Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer SPF 30. Not only does the product protect the skin against harmful UVA/UVB rays, but it immediately hydrates the skin, and visibly reduces wrinkles in just 4 weeks. The moisturizer is made with pure RoC® retinol, America’s #1 Most Awarded Retinol*, which is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles without skin irritation.

Need more convincing to grab this daily staple? With over 5,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, one user called this product the “best facial moisturizer on the market,” with another stating “I couldn’t live without it.”

3. Exfoliate

Skin cell turnover also gradually declines as you age, making it harder for your body to get rid of dead skin. This accumulation of dead skin can make your face look dry and dull. Adding an exfoliant to your nighttime skincare routine can get rid of those flaky skin cells, improving the texture and clarity of your skin.

While your skin may have previously tolerated physical exfoliants like scrubs, these products may be too rough on more mature skin. Instead, opt for a chemical exfoliant to dissolve the dead skin cells, clean clogged pores, even out discoloration and minimize wrinkles.

4. Harness the power of retinol to treat lines and wrinkles while you sleep

At night, finish off your day and your skincare regimen with a night cream that uses retinol, such as RoC® Retinol Correxion® Deep Wrinkle Night Cream that deeply penetrates your skin as you sleep to hydrate and fight the appearance of deep-set wrinkles. During the day, your skin is exposed to environmental stressors such as oxidation and UV damage. However, at night, your skin is most receptive to cell renewal as it focuses on repairing damage, re-energizing the skin, and increasing collagen production.

Designed with pure RoC®Retinol, along with an exclusive mineral complex for additional hydration, RoC’s night cream is clinically proven to visibly reduce wrinkles for truly age-defying results. In 8 weeks, 93% of users saw a visible improvement in the appearance of deep wrinkles, and in 12 weeks, their wrinkles were visibly reduced by up to 50%.

“RoC® Retinol is clinically proven to be both stable and highly effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” said Dr. Marisa Garshick, Board-Certified Dermatologist. “Its gentle yet powerful formula is ideal for even first-time retinol users, offering an affordable option that fits seamlessly into any nightly skincare routine.”

Consistently incorporating RoC® Retinol into your routine means the treatment will be able to work through the night to deliver smoother, firmer and more radiant-looking skin each morning.

For an exceptional deal, grab both the RoC® Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer and Deep Wrinkle Night Cream plus a bonus Hydrate + Plump Eye Cream for just $26.99 at Costco. You can thank us later.

*Based on a 3rd party study using publicly available data sources from publications and media sources hosting beauty awards since 2010.