Month: December 2025

2025-12-02T08:01:01

(BPT) – Every parent in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) dreams of the day they can bring their premature baby home safely. While many factors influence how long a preemie stays in the hospital, nutrition plays a bigger role than most parents realize in determining when that day arrives.

Premature babies face unique challenges. Born weeks or months before their bodies and digestive systems are fully developed, preemies need 20-40% more calories and 2-3 times more protein than full-term babies, to catch up on the growth they missed in the womb. This is why doctors often add something called a “fortifier” to mom’s breastmilk or donor milk for the smallest, most fragile preemies in the NICU, to give them the extra nutrition they need to grow healthy and strong.

Understanding Your Fortifier Choices

It’s important for parents to know that not all nutritional fortifiers are created equal. There are two types of fortifiers: one is cow milk-based and the other is breastmilk-based. While both are labeled “human milk fortifiers,” in the U.S., only fortifiers from a company called Prolacta Bioscience are made from 100% donor breastmilk, free from cow milk and corn syrup.

This difference between cow milk and breastmilk matters, especially for the smallest preemies born weighing 2.75 pounds or less. Breastmilk contains natural antibodies and immune-boosting properties and is gentle on the immature digestive system of fragile preemies. Studies have shown fortifiers made from cow milk may increase the risk of complications, including a serious intestinal disease called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Human Milk for Human Babies: Clinical Evidence Shows Real Differences

Research shows that premature babies fed breastmilk-based fortifiers, as part of an exclusive human milk-based diet, tend to have:

• Lower risk of infection (late onset sepsis) and NEC
• Less lung disease
• Reduced eye disease
• Improved long-term outcomes
• Shorter NICU stays

But it’s not only research. Hospital NICUs across the country are seeing the benefits firsthand for the preemies in their care. This year alone, more than half of the Level 3 & 4 NICUs in the U.S. have used 100% breastmilk-based fortifiers for their smallest preemies. These hospitals are experiencing how the right nutrition can make the difference between a complicated NICU stay and a smoother journey home.

Advocating for Your Baby

If you have a baby in the NICU, talk to your care team about the best nutritional options for your child. The right nutritional choice can make a real difference in your preemie’s short- and long-term health. You can ask for Prolacta nutritional products by name, and your hospital can order them without a contract, often for overnight delivery, even for just one baby!

When your little one is fighting to grow strong, every feeding decision matters. Educational resources are available to help support families. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for the nutrition that gives your baby the best chance to thrive.

2025-12-02T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

Did you get your flu shot this year? You might think that having the flu (influenza) just means a bad cold or cough. But the truth is that flu can be serious and could cause unpredictable symptoms. It can disrupt your daily life and even be life-threatening,[1] which is why taking steps to help protect yourself, like getting your annual flu vaccine, is so important.

Anyone can catch the flu. Even if you’re healthy, you can still be infected by the virus. Additionally, some people — like older adults and those with certain health conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease — are at a higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick.[1] That’s why it’s crucial that you get a flu vaccine every year to help protect yourself and others against the virus and its potentially serious flu complications.

Influenza by the numbers

The 2024-2025 flu season was one of the most severe in almost a decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, the CDC found that it was the first season in seven years to be classified as high severity.[2] Based on data from October 1, 2024 through May 17, 2025, CDC estimates there have been up to[3]:

• 82 million flu-related illnesses
• 1.3 million flu hospitalizations
• 130,000 flu deaths

Adults 65 years and older, pregnant people and those with certain chronic medical conditions of all ages are especially vulnerable to flu-related complications.[4] In addition, about 95% of patients hospitalized due to flu last season had at least one chronic condition.[5]

Know the signs and complications

Getting a flu vaccine may not prevent you from contracting the flu. However, it can help lessen the severity and duration of symptoms and help lower your risk of developing severe flu-related illnesses.

Flu symptoms include more than just a fever, chills and cough. In fact, even if you don’t have a fever, you may still have the virus. According to the CDC, other flu symptoms[1] include:

• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If you get the flu, you may recover in a few days. However, some people may develop moderate to serious — even life-threatening — complications[1] like:

• Pneumonia
• Sinus and ear infections
• Inflammation of the heart, brain or muscle tissues
• Respiratory and kidney failure
• Sepsis

What you can do

The flu can be unpredictable, and the first and most important thing you can do to help lower your risk of getting the flu is to get vaccinated. Higher-dose flu vaccines are among those preferentially recommended for those over 65, according to the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Higher-dose flu vaccines contain more antigen (the part of the vaccine that helps your body build up protection against influenza viruses) than other standard dose adjuvanted flu vaccines, as they are potentially more effective than standard dose adjuvanted flu vaccines for your age group.[1]

In addition to scheduling your flu shot, you can take preventative daily actions to stop the spread of germs and reduce your risk of contracting the flu[6]:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Limit your exposure to people who are sick
• Wipe down frequently touched surfaces

Don’t wait!

Flu season may have already started, but you can still get your flu shot to help protect yourself and others. Talk to your health care professional about your risk for flu-related complications and vaccination options and learn more about higher-dose flu vaccine options at SanofiFluShots.com.

Sources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Signs and Symptoms of Flu. Accessed October 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Severity, Disease Burden, and Prevented Burden for the 2024-2025 Influenza Season. Accessed October 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/acip/downloads/slides-2025-06-25-26/03-dugan-influenza-508.pdf.

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preliminary Estimated Flu Disease Burden 2024-2025 Flu Season. Accessed October 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu-burden/php/data-vis/2024-2025.html.

4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Influenza. Accessed October 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html.

5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Selected Underlying Medical Conditions: 2024-25 Season. Accessed October 2025. https://gis.cdc.gov/grasp/fluview/FluHospChars.html.

6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu and People 65 Years and Older. Accessed October 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm.

MAT-US-2512857-v1.0-11/2025

2025-12-02T09:31:00

(BPT) – As the year winds down, new Empower research shows that Americans are taking stock of their finances: 54% say the cost of living rose in 2025, though close to a third feel more optimistic now than they did in January (28%). In December, specifically, 31% report feeling more financial stress than in other months, as a quarter find it difficult to balance holiday expenses with their financial goals (25%). Close to a quarter (21%) use December as a financial “checkpoint,” and 21% believe the choices they make this month set the tone for the year ahead. One in 5 say meeting with a financial professional before year-end is important.

What people did with their money in 2025

Even as inflation pressures linger, close to 2 in 5 Americans prioritized their financial future by building emergency savings (37%) and contributing to their retirement savings (36%). A third invested in the stock market (34%), paid down debt (32%), and followed a budget (31%) in 2025.

When it comes to reaching financial goals, 29% say their income met expectations and a quarter reached the financial goals they set for the year (23%).

Americans also take practical financial steps: More than a third (35%) check their credit score or credit report, or gather receipts for deductions such as charitable gifts, medical expenses, or business expenses (31%). Some 27% review and pay down credit card balances, and 22% review or rebalance their investments.

December reflections on money

In December, many people report shifts in their financial attitudes — becoming more aware of their situation, setting goals, and feeling both stress and motivation. More than a third (35%) say the season makes them more aware of their financial situation, while 30% focus more on gratitude than money.

At the same time, 29% of people find hidden holiday costs more stressful than buying gifts, and 22% feel added pressure to appear more financially successful.

December also sparks financial planning behaviors: A quarter feel more financially organized after taking the time to review their accounts (23%), and 22% take stock of whether they hit their money goals. Some 24% hope to have $5,000 saved up by the month’s end.

Looking ahead, more than 1 in 5 say the holiday season motivates them to plan for the future (21%), and 21% believe their December money habits set the tone for the year ahead.

Workplace checklist

During the month of December, close to 2 in 5 Americans (37%) plan to set professional goals at work and 32% are increasing their retirement contributions. Another 37% will use remaining PTO or schedule next year’s vacations. More than a third intend to review workplace benefits (36%) and are adjusting their health insurance or flexible spending elections (35%).

At the same time, workers are also thinking about bigger career and financial moves: 37% are exploring new job opportunities, while a third are updating their résumé or LinkedIn profile (31%). More than a quarter are preparing to ask for a raise or promotion (28%), and 22% are looking to negotiate a year-end bonus.

Windfall wins

When asked how they would use an unexpected $10,000, half of Americans say they would build an emergency fund (53%). More than 2 in 5 would use it to pay down credit card debt (42%) or invest the money for long-term growth (41%).

Some 41% would use the money to make home improvements or upgrades, while 38% would pay down student loans, mortgage or other major debt. A third would spend it on holiday expenses (36%) or give it away to family, friends or charity (28%).

End-of-year tax strategies

A quarter of Americans (25%) feel confident in the way they prepare for tax season, though close to a third would take more advantage of tax strategies if they understood them better (30%).

At the end of the year, a quarter (23%) review their withholdings or overall tax strategy for the coming year and make charitable donations for tax benefits (22%). More than 1 in 5 review or rebalance their investments (21%). Around 20% max out retirement contributions, while 19% adjust W-4 withholdings to avoid a surprise bill in April.

Others focus on year-end planning by accelerating deductible expenses such as mortgage or property tax payments (18%), harvesting investment gains or losses (17%), deferring income into January (17%), or making last-minute contributions to 529 college savings plans (17%).

Focus on the future

Around a third of Americans set financial goals or resolutions for 2026 and create a financial plan (30%) at year’s end. One in 5 speak with a financial professional to discuss goals, check in on progress, or review their portfolio (20%).

Visit The Currency™ to read Empower’s full report, “The December Mindset.“

Methodology
Empower’s “The December Mindset” study is based on online survey responses from 1,032 Americans ages 18+ from fielded by a third-party provider during September 8-9, 2025.

RO4855971-0925

2025-12-02T14:17:00

(BPT) – The holidays aren’t just about the food — they’re about laughter, traditions and making special memories. Gatherings provide dedicated time with loved ones to share stories, play games, and enjoy delicious meals, creating long-lasting, treasured moments.

Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or a cozy get-together with friends, Land O’Lakes^® Butter and Cheese can be your go-to for helping create delicious dishes and unforgettable experiences. With the help of Food Network champ, cookbook author and viral recipe creator Mackenzie Smith of @grilledcheesesocial, Land O’Lakes is sharing practical tips to bring people together during holiday gatherings and inspire home cooks and bakers to spend more time at the table:

1. Plan a Family Recipe Swap

Bringing a dish to a holiday gathering is more than just sharing food — it’s sharing a piece of yourself. Whether it’s a family recipe or a festive favorite, it can spark conversations and create connections around the table. As a fun twist, ask guests to bring a favorite holiday recipe card to exchange. This gives everyone a new dish to try next year and is a heartfelt way to share meaningful traditions.

2. Bake and Make Ahead So You Can Be More Present

Plan for more togetherness by prepping baked goods in advance. Make cookie dough or pie crusts early, freeze them, and pull them out when you’re ready to bake. Smith explains, “While I love being in the kitchen, this step makes it less of a chore and allows for more time for visiting with loved ones.” And instead of juggling multiple pots and pans, you can also roast veggies, proteins, and even stuffing on sheet pans. This saves you time and makes cleanup a breeze. Get inspired with more ideas by visiting landolakes.com.

3. Create a DIY Hot Cocoa and Coffee Bar

Set up a cozy welcome station with mugs, coffee, cocoa mix, whipped cream, marshmallows and fun toppings like crushed peppermint or caramel drizzle. Add a few festive extras like cinnamon sticks or flavored syrups for a gourmet touch.

4. Host a Butter Cookie Decorating Station

Turn dessert into a family tradition! Bake classic butter cookies ahead of time, then set up a simple decorating station with bowls of buttercream frosting, royal icing, sprinkles and candy toppers. “It’s interactive, fun and keeps kids of all ages laughing together and occupied,” Smith says. “And when it comes to buttercream frosting, Land O’Lakes^® Butter is the secret to that rich, creamy texture everyone loves.”

5. Set Up a Game or Story Corner

Create a collaborative space featuring classic board or card games, vintage photographs or holiday books for kids and adults alike. It’s another great way to promote face-to-face, social interaction that keeps the energy warm while you finish up in the kitchen. Set up a backdrop with gaming props and costumes for guests to capture memories.

6. Leave a Lasting Impression

Make your holiday gathering extra memorable by sending guests home with more than just leftovers! Let guests curate a simple takeaway gift before hitting the road. Smith suggests mason jars of homemade spice blends, sachets filled with festive scents, or rolls of compound butter made with Land O’Lakes^® Butter and herbs. Set out simple packaging like parchment paper, twine and gift tags so everyone can personalize their creations and bring home a little piece of the celebration.

The holidays move fast but remember to slow down and savor what matters most: good food and great company. With a little planning and a few creative ideas, you’ll spend less time stressing and more time laughing, sharing stories and making memories that last long after the season ends.

2025-12-02T13:01:00

(BPT) – A new year calls for a big celebration, and there is no better way to set the tone for 2026 than with an extravagant international getaway! Traveling to another country to celebrate New Year’s Eve is the perfect opportunity to break from your routine, immerse yourself in a different culture, and create special memories with friends, family members, your significant other, or even on a solo adventure.

One place that offers the perfect setting to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new in style is lebua Bangkok. As the world’s first vertical destination, the prestigious Tower Club at lebua and lebua at State Tower offer guests an array of luxurious experiences, from Michelin-starred and award-winning culinary features, stunning views of the city, tailored adventures, and access to authentic regional highlights and seasonal celebrations in the heart of Bangkok.

The luxury hotel is elevating the annual celebration even more with brand-new exclusive experiences to ring in the new year along with the premier of elevated suites, one-of-a-kind dining features, and expanded amenities to be introduced throughout 2026. Read on to discover what awaits you at lebua Bangkok.

One night, one sky, a thousand moments of wonder

As the final sunset of the year paints the Bangkok skyline gold, you can celebrate on every floor of lebua Bangkok. You’ll have your pick of six bars and four restaurants that bring their own unique flavor to New Year’s Eve.

Stop by Chef’s Table by lebua, a two-Michelin-star restaurant that elevates French fine dining in Bangkok into an immersive multisensory art experience. Under the direction of Chef Vincent Thierry, you can enjoy a seven-course meal with premium wine pairings as you wait for the lights to illuminate the sky.

If you’re interested in a fine dining experience that offers French cuisine with a twist, head to Mezzaluna by lebua, the hotel’s crown jewel, also with two Michelin stars and panoramic 65th-floor views. Thanks to Chef Ryuki Kawasaki, you can have a seven-course meal and New Year’s Eve pairings that marry Japanese precision with French culinary artistry.

An unforgettable experience that will take your New Year’s Eve to new heights is Sky Bar by lebua. Made famous by The Hangover Part II, Sky Bar is arguably the most iconic rooftop in the world. Set on the 64th floor, it features a glowing circular center stage suspended over the edge of the building. Raise a glass to 2026 as you enjoy an unobstructed view of the Bangkok skyline.

Additional signature restaurants where you can ring in the new year include Breeze by lebua — an inspired interpretation of authentic Chinese cuisine — and Sirocco by lebua — a vibrant and award-winning rooftop dining experience influenced by Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel’s Distil Bar by lebua, lebua No. 3, Alfresco 64 by lebua, and Pink Bar by lebua will all offer their own distinct array of libations and elevated menu options to take in the evening celebrations as well.

The showstopping event of the night happens after the clock strikes twelve in lebua’s first-ever Vantage Point AfterParty. Hosted at Sky Bar by lebua, you can dance the night away to world-class DJs, live entertainment and a 360° photo experience that carries the night into dawn. While the AfterParty at Sky Bar by lebua is not to be missed, the firework display can be enjoyed from any of the hotel’s restaurants and bars.

A year-round destination like no other

lebua Bangkok is the ultimate way to experience all that Bangkok has to offer. From year-round balmy weather, lively markets, bustling nightlife and iconic landmarks, the captivating city offers travelers unique, unforgettable experiences. Having recently been recognized by the globally renowned Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards as #3 in Bangkok and #72 in the world within the hotels category, lebua Bangkok sets the tone for an unforgettable getaway.

Located in the heart of the city, the hotel towers above the vibrant riverside district. This all-suite sanctuary is more than just a place to stay, it is a full destination experience.

The hotel’s vertical design offers everything you’ll need in one place. Its spacious suites — some of the largest accommodations in Bangkok — feature sophisticated touches that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. In each suite, you’ll find a private balcony with panoramic vistas of the Chao Phraya River or the city skyline.

Beyond the New Year, make sure to come back throughout 2026 to experience lebua again in a new form. The hotel recently announced an elevated redesign of 28 select suites, ranging from one to three bedrooms, a reimagining of the menus and décor of Sirocco and Café Mozu, to be reopened as Les Marchands, and an array of curated signature amenities and features.

Whether you’re visiting for the new year or planning for 2026, take in Bangkok in style at lebua. To learn more and book your stay, visit www.lebua.com.

2025-12-01T14:01:01

(BPT) – Winter has arrived, and with more people starting to gather indoors in close quarters, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 continues to pose a health risk – especially for older adults and those at high-risk for severe disease.^i,ii Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that between October 1, 2024, and September 20, 2025, COVID-19 led to over 380,000 hospitalizations and 44,000 deaths in the United States.ⁱⁱⁱ

With more questions than ever this season, here’s what you need to know about staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccination:

Is COVID-19 still a concern this winter?

Yes, COVID-19 hasn’t gone away, and hospitalizations have consistently risen during fall and winter months over the past four years.^iv Though COVID-19 maintains a year-round presence, cases rise as temperatures drop, people move activities inside, and holiday gatherings bring more people together.^iv,v

What are risk factors for severe COVID-19?

Age is one of the biggest risk factors.ⁱⁱ Those aged 65 and older account for over 70% of COVID-19-related hospitalizations.^vi Age-related weakening of the immune system makes it harder for older bodies to fight off infection, and the risk of severe illness increases with each additional underlying health condition you may have.^ii,vii

If you’re moderately or severely immunocompromised, whether due to medical conditions, such as chronic lung, liver, or kidney diseases, or are taking medication that suppresses your immune system, you’re also at increased risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.ⁱⁱ

“Many people think COVID-19 is behind us, but it continues to cause serious illness, especially among those at high-risk, particularly the elderly and people with compromised immune systems,” said Dr. Onyema Ogbuagu, MBBCh, Professor of Medicine and Pharmacology at Yale School of Medicine.^ii,viii “COVID-19 vaccines are periodically updated to help provide protection as the COVID-19 virus evolves (or mutates), which is why staying informed about your risk factors and protection options is so important.”^ix

Can I get my flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time?

You may receive both vaccines during the same visit if you are eligible, as there’s no required waiting period between flu and COVID-19 vaccines.^x Getting both at once can help save a trip to the pharmacy and protect you against both respiratory illnesses simultaneously ahead of the winter season.^ix,x,xi

Do I need another vaccine if I got one last year? Am I eligible for an updated vaccination?

Immunity from previous vaccinations or infections decreases over time, and new variants continue to evolve, so an updated COVID-19 vaccine may be right for you.^ix,xii The CDC recommends that everyone speak with their healthcare providers about whether additional doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine are appropriate for them, especially people 65 years and older and those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.^ix,xiii

I’ve heard about Long COVID. What is it? Who is at risk?

Long COVID is a serious illness with a range of ongoing symptoms that can lead to chronic conditions.^xiv It can also affect anyone regardless of age or prior health status.^xiv Healthcare professionals estimate that approximately 29% of Americans who have had COVID-19 experience Long COVID.^xv This chronic condition can include symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and difficulty concentrating that may last for months or even years.^xvi

Older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and those who did not receive a COVID-19 vaccine who contract COVID-19 face an elevated risk of developing Long COVID.^xiv

How can I best protect myself?

Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and what steps are right for you, including whether you’re up to date with vaccinations.

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit CDC.gov. To find a vaccine near you, visit the Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity and Progress (CVEEP) vaccine locator.

Sponsored by Moderna.

2025-12-01T09:31:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is synonymous with joyful celebrations, viral gift guides and wish lists that seem to grow every year. With so much excitement, it’s easy for holiday spending to get out of hand. But with a little planning and helpful financial tools, gift givers can enjoy a season of giving without the guilt of overspending.

Try these three simple strategies for smarter, stress-free holiday spending, while prepping for the future:

Set your game plan (and your budget) early

Before holiday deals hit, consider outlining your financial goals using the Capital One Money & Life Program. The Money & Life Program offers free mentoring, digital tools and personalized tips to help your financial well-being, which could help you prioritize gift lists and set realistic spending limits. Take advantage of the ambiance and free Wi-Fi at a local Capital One Café, open to everyone, not just Capital One customers, to map out your holiday budget in a relaxed setting. Money & Life Mentors are available in the Cafés or virtually to help set holiday goals and answer questions about Capital One accounts and tools. There’s also on-demand content.

Make your list and check it twice!

Double-checking your shopping list can make all the difference. Categorize gifts by priority and set a spending limit for each recipient. Bring your list to your local Capital One Café to chat with a Café Ambassador for financial wellness and other goal setting tips. It may be helpful to include a dedicated “holiday” savings bucket in your budget, allowing you to track your spending with confidence. Check out how a Capital One 360 Checking or 360 Performance Savings account with no fees or minimums could help you manage your money this holiday season.

Make your money work for you

Gift yourself a nest egg. While saving for the holidays, consider putting your funds into an account such as a Capital One 360 CD to earn consistent returns at a fixed rate. This is an easy way to set aside money for next year’s festivities, or even a future vacation, while watching your savings grow.

Use the Capital One Money & Life Program to plan beyond the holiday and into the new year. The free one-on-one mentoring and other resources can help to support your financial goals, navigate expenses and build healthy financial habits for 2026.

Visit a Capital One Café near you or explore the Money & Life Program hub at www.capitalone.com/local/money-and-life/ to start mapping out your budget or schedule free mentorship conversations. This season, make your list, check it twice, and enjoy the gift of giving with less stress.