Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-06-13T08:55:00

(BPT) – After 114 years, the Boy Scouts of America has changed its name. More than five years after welcoming girls, it has become Scouting America, a name that is more welcoming to anyone who wants to join. Nobody is happier about it than Bob Brady, Scoutmaster of Troop 1150 in Sparta and the Executive Vice President of Patriots’ Path Council. He said the name change is reflective of what Scouting is all about.

“The name change reflects what our Oath has always been,” said Brady. “We want everyone involved. Everyone is welcome. We’re better with you than without you.”

Brady’s own family knows a bit about that. When Brady was a kid, being a Boy Scout was at the center of his world. He had moved with his family to a new part of the country and was short on friends and activities. Joining Scouts was a pivotal turning point in his young life.

“Scouting was everything to me,” said Brady. “I earned Eagle at 15 and stayed involved. I did everything you can do in Scouting and loved every minute of it.”

Scouting didn’t just teach Brady how to pitch a tent and survive in the forest. It taught him leadership, public speaking, and the values that are central to who he is as a person. It even pointed the way to his career.

“I’m a lawyer,” he explained. “But there were no lawyers in my family. I had never even thought about becoming a lawyer until I took a law merit badge in Scouting when I was 17 years old. That merit badge changed the course of my life. I don’t know where I would be without it. Those merit badges help Scouts figure out who they are.”

Brady’s involvement in Scouting diminished over the years, primarily because of the birth of his daughters. He was a bit wistful about the fact he couldn’t share what was such an important part of his own growing-up years with his girls. At the time of their birth, Boy Scouts of America had yet to accept women into its ranks.

All of that changed in 2018, when the organization began admitting girls. Coincidentally enough, the announcement came on his daughter’s 10th birthday.

“I teared up, because I realized that I could now share the program that had meant everything to me growing up with my girls.”

Brady sprang into action right away to see how he could help. He formed a girls-only troop, 13 Scouts of which went on to achieve the highest rank in Scouting, Eagle Scout. Two of that group of 13? His own daughters.

This Father’s Day, Brady is reflective of what it all means, not just to his own family, but to Americans as a whole. It’s about raising good kids — the most important work any parent can do.

“The values we instill in kids in this program — this is exactly what we want good citizens to be,” Brady said. “If everyone went through Scouting, imagine the society we could have. It is the single most important youth program you can offer to your kids. It’s going to change their lives.”

To learn more or to find a scouting troop for your child, visit BeAScout.org. According to Bob Brady, you’ll be very glad you did.

2024-06-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is the season for spending your nights outdoors, whether by a cozy bonfire, in the backyard with a movie projector, or gathered around the porch table with family and friends. With a little forethought and some planning, your golden hour party can extend into the night and be the hit of the season. Here are five ideas for making your sunset soiree sensational.

1. Plan ahead. Summer calendars fill up fast. Get those invites out early so you can make sure your family and friends can attend. Bonus tip: Make it a weeknight! Summer is a great time to linger in the backyard during golden hour and beyond, so giving people something fabulous to do on a day they might not usually take advantage of is always a treat. By opting against a weekend night, your guests are more likely to be available.

2. Amp up the dinner party. To give your guests a more thoughtful experience, transform your outdoor dining area with a seasonal tablescape, unique lighting and even a themed menu. You can add a magical feel to the evening by draping strands of lights in the trees and along your fence. Many backyard lights are even solar-powered, so they’ll flicker on in time for golden hour and add a fairy-like glow to your gathering. And about that menu … setting up your meal as a “station” where people can serve themselves, like a salad bar, is an easy way to accommodate food allergies and preferences while still offering a variety of choices.

3. Reclaim the golden hour from mosquitos. Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor party like a swarm of mosquitos descending at golden hour, that period between day and night in which everything just seems to glow with soft light. It’s the most beautiful time of day, but it’s also a peak time for mosquito activity, which causes many people to retreat indoors. In fact, up to 40% of people have even skipped outdoor events to avoid dealing with insects¹. Adding OFF!^® Clean Feel products to your outdoor routine can help you enjoy sunset and the rest of the night longer. OFF!^® Clean Feel aerosols and pump sprays are easy to use and provide long-lasting protection for up to eight hours from mosquitoes. OFF!^® Clean Feel Gel is another fragrance-free option perfect for everyday use because it feels good on skin and will help protect you from mosquitoes.

4. Set up entertainment. If you have the space for an after-dinner activity, you can drape a sheet along your fence or house for an easy projector screen. At sundown, transform your space with comfy pillows, a projector, speakers and cables for a perfect at-home movie night.

5. Draw the evening to a close around your firepit. Everyone loves sitting around a cozy firepit on a summer night. Pre-stack your firepit with wood so all you’ll need to do is light it. Add to the fun by stocking up a tray with ingredients for s’mores (including skewers for roasting the marshmallows!), or try using a grated top for your firepit to grill peaches, watermelon or pineapple to serve with ice cream. Bonus tip: Have cozy throws or long-sleeved wraps on hand for your guests who might get chilly.

Take back the golden hour from mosquitos and enjoy these balmy evenings with family and friends. By banishing the bugs, you’ll make the most of summer!

¹ Random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by OnePoll on behalf of OFF!^® Brand between July 27-28, 2023.

2024-06-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of college in 2023 is $36,436 per year. Even if you or your parents can afford to pay the full costs, that’s still a hefty sum. Scholarships can help cover the costs of college, from tuition and books to living expenses.

From community organizations and major corporations to military branches or your school itself, make a list of which types of scholarships are most of interest to you. Here are some common types of scholarships available:

• Merit-based. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements. This includes criteria like GPA, standardized test scores or outstanding talents. Merit scholarships are designed to reward excellence, without consideration for financial need.
• Need-based. These scholarships are determined by a student’s ability to pay for their education. Low-income students may be eligible for additional grants.
• Minority scholarships. Minority scholarships support underrepresented groups in higher education. These scholarships may award money to racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ students and individuals with disabilities.
• Subject-specific. These scholarships are for students pursuing specific fields of study, such as STEM or the humanities.
• Community service. Community service scholarships recognize a student’s commitment to community service and volunteering.
• Athletic. Athletes who excel in sports like football and basketball may receive an athletic scholarship. Colleges and universities may offer them to recruit athletes for their teams.
• Creative and artistic. Students with exceptional creative talents may be eligible for these scholarships.
• International. If you’re moving to the United States for higher education, apply for international scholarships. They might be merit-based, need-based or otherwise specific to international students.
• Career-specific. Some scholarships are tailored to specific careers or industries. They may require recipients to commit to working in that field after graduation.
• Entrepreneurial. These awards support students with innovative business ideas or entrepreneurial ambitions.
• First-generation. If you’re the first in your family to attend college, you might qualify for this type of scholarship. They’re designed to bridge financial and educational gaps for first-generation students.
• Study abroad. Study abroad scholarships are for students interested in studying in foreign countries for a semester or more.
• Military. Active Duty military personnel, Veterans and their dependents may qualify for certain scholarships through the branches of the military.

From there, here are a few tips to maximize your scholarship opportunities.

1. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This helps determine your eligibility for federal financial assistance. Even if you’re not eligible for student aid, apply anyway. Many states and scholarship programs use FAFSA information to evaluate applications.
2. Look for local opportunities. Check with your high school’s guidance counselor. Then, inquire with community organizations and local businesses.
3. Sign up for national scholarship database websites. These websites collect information on a wide range of scholarship opportunities. Take time to create a comprehensive student profile. List your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, interests and career goals. Scholarship databases will try to match you with opportunities based on this information.
4. Research scholarships at each university or college before you apply. Some schools will automatically consider you for certain scholarships, while others may require you to apply. Contact each school’s financial aid office to ask about opportunities.
5. Start early. Keep track of the application deadlines, requirements and materials for each scholarship.
6. Ask your peers, family, mentors or guidance counselors for advice. They may provide recommendations or be available to review essays.

Whether you’re just starting out on your educational journey or currently in school, check out Navy Federal Credit Union’s student loan options to help fill funding gaps or resources on college savings.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.

2024-06-10T11:11:00

(BPT) – If your dad takes any excuse to get outside — whether he loves sprucing up the yard, grilling out or epic adventures — you can help him pursue his outdoor passions with just the right gift this Father’s Day.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Support your dad’s perfect yard obsession

For dads who find joy in the straight edges of a flawlessly trimmed lawn, this STIHL FSA 60 R battery-powered trimmer will make their weekend chores a breeze. This trimmer offers a lightweight design with a brushless motor that virtually eliminates the need for maintenance — so Dad can relax and enjoy the clean, quiet benefits of battery power. Give Dad the gift of convenience and efficiency and watch his yard transform into a well-manicured masterpiece!

Cook up the hottest gift for Dad

Dad will be sure to conquer the grill with a new instant-read meat thermometer! Whether he’s grilling BBQ for the family or burger patties for the boys, this handy gadget will help his culinary creations turn out delicious every time. With quick and accurate temperature readings, overcooking and underdone meats are a thing of the past. Help Dad become the ultimate grill master with this must-have tool.

Help Dad tackle big jobs

To accomplish big backyard tasks, your dad may need a powerful tool like a STIHL MS 162 chainsaw. This lightweight and maneuverable chainsaw features reduced exhaust emissions and an anti-vibration system, offering Dad optimal comfort. Whether he’s clearing fallen branches, prepping firewood for cozy nights by the fire or taking on ambitious DIY projects, this STIHL chainsaw is up to the task.

Help your dad keep his cool

If he’s still using that old, beat-up cooler for his outdoor adventures, encourage him to upgrade in time for the dog days of summer. Today’s cooler options are, well, really cool — including coolers on wheels, backpack coolers and coolers with Bluetooth^® capabilities — available in various sizes and price points. For the ultimate outdoor experience, you could even consider a portable car fridge that plugs into his vehicle.

Celebrate your garden-loving Dad

If you want to gift your dad the manicured look of precisely trimmed ornamental plants and carefully pruned shrubs and grasses, then STIHL has the perfect tool for you — HSA 26 battery-powered garden shears. This handheld hedge trimmer provides precise, clean cuts, a lightweight construction and impressive power to inspire his gardening goals. Gift your dad all the comfort, control and flexibility he needs to turn his yard into a plant lover’s paradise.

Show your dad that you understand what he cares about most. With these ideas, you’ll be able to find something special to delight your outdoor-loving dad this year.

Find great gift ideas and special offers for your yard-obsessed dad at StihlUSA.com.

2024-06-10T10:37:00

(BPT) – Across the U.S., higher education is in flux. This can make focusing on education and the future feel overwhelming for many students. But for DeVry University’s students, who often balance classes with careers, families and other personal obligations, successfully meeting challenges is familiar territory. This year’s graduating class, like those before them, has demonstrated and embodied the resilience fostered and supported by the institution.

“DeVry and Keller made it possible to continue my career and education simultaneously,” said Ebony Lawal, a DeVry graduate and now a graduate from the Keller School of Management’s MBA program. “The most memorable part of my journey has been the support of my adviser, who kept me going through difficult times and helped me to find a career path that matches my goals.”

On Sunday, June 9, in Rosemont, Illinois, more than 2,000 students crossed the stage during commencement ceremonies for DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management in celebration of their accomplishments and ability to thrive in the face of difficulties.

“I am exceptionally proud of our graduates for reaching this significant milestone. This achievement is a testament to their hard work, determination and perseverance,” added Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University. “The challenges in today’s world are immense, but as graduates of DeVry University, they have the skills to take on those challenges and make impactful contributions to their workplaces and communities.”

Tech visionary and proud alumna emphasizes Belief in the Possible

This year’s commencement keynote speaker, Edwige A. Robinson — DeVry and Keller alum — knows the challenges and rewards of higher education. For her, education allowed her to bet on herself and open new doors. She exemplifies the grit, determination and self-belief cultivated at DeVry.

When speaking to this year’s graduates, Robinson emphasized betting on yourself. “When you think about it, a new manager or company will bet on you by just looking at your resume and hiring you. So, if a stranger can bet on you, why can’t you bet on yourself?” she pointed out.

Robinson’s educational journey began in Cote d’Ivoire, West Africa. She eventually immigrated to the U.S., learned English and quickly found a passion for technology. She is a trailblazing senior executive in strategy and innovation and is a member of the Forbes Technology Council. Robinson is passionate about mentorship, regularly sharing her insights and experience with young girls and women through several organizations and entities, including DeVry’s Women+Tech Scholars Program.

“I believe that achieving a goal, dream or aspiration begins in one’s mind, an inner work where you first envision overcoming all possible obstacles,” she explained. “And that belief inside of yourself serves as a kind of seed planting and germination for your dream to grow.”

Resiliency in action

Every commencement ceremony celebrates student achievement. But the celebration is even more profound when students overcome obstacles to achieve an education.

DeVry’s commencement ceremonies cap off a two-day Commencement Weekend. On Saturday, June 8, the university hosted DeVry Day, a career planning and alumni networking event to help graduates further prepare for what’s next. Alumni participation fosters community and shows graduates how far an education can take them.

“Education, undeniably, remains an influential force with timeless significance. Once an individual attains an educational milestone, it becomes an enduring possession,” said Awwad. “However, our commitment to our students doesn’t end at commencement. Our mission remains the same — to help learners at any stage of their journey create thriving careers in an economy transformed by technology,” she concluded.

Are you ready to discover what’s possible when you bet on yourself? Visit DeVry.edu to find out more.

2024-06-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Taking care of your sexual and reproductive health is an important part of your overall well-being. Many people find it hard to talk about, and there are many myths about sexuality and reproduction. To clarify some of the confusion, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, an OB-GYN professor at Yale School of Medicine, offers the following helpful tips:

Make Annual Check-Ups a Priority

Regularly prioritizing annual OB-GYN check-ups is crucial for maintaining reproductive health and overall well-being. Regular visits allow for early detection of potential issues like cervical cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Comprehensive health monitoring during these check-ups includes tracking changes in menstrual cycles, vaginal health, and hormone levels, which can indicate broader health issues. Preventive care through screenings like Pap smears, HPV testing, pelvic exams and mammograms can catch abnormalities early, thereby reducing the risk of developing serious complications.

Additionally, annual visits provide personalized guidance on your fertility planning. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the most suitable birth control method and offer advice tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. These visits also offer an opportunity to discuss concerns about menstrual irregularities, sexual health, and wellness, ensuring you have accurate information and consistent support.

Building a strong relationship with your healthcare provider through regular visits fosters trust and communication, making it easier to discuss sensitive issues. To maximize the benefits of your visit, make a list of concerns before you go to ensure all important topics are addressed.

Be Prepared with Contraception

Regardless of your relationship status, be smart. Be prepared for sex. During your annual medical visit, ask about different birth control options so you can choose the best method for your current lifestyle and health needs.

You can get combination pills with a prescription from your medical professional or from clinics like Planned Parenthood or carafem for a wide range of birth control options like condoms, birth control pills, emergency contraception, IUD/IUCs, birth control implants, and Depo Provera shots.

The good news is the first over-the-counter (OTC) combination estrogen and progesterone oral contraceptive pill (The Pill) is currently being developed under close FDA supervision.

Be Ready for those Unexpected “Oops” Moments

It’s critical to be prepared for unexpected “oops” moments, like when the condom breaks or after unprotected sex by taking an emergency contraceptive within 72 hours of the unprotected sex. Cadence’s Morning After Pill is available over the counter 24/7 at convenience stores like 7-Eleven at half the price of the leading brand, making it more accessible and readily available the moment it’s needed.

It’s important to note that the Morning After Pill will not terminate an existing pregnancy but can prevent one from starting if taken in time. In fact, the sooner you take it the better it works. It is approved by the FDA and won’t interfere with future fertility, regular birth control, or stop a current pregnancy because it prevents pregnancy completely by stopping the egg from meeting the sperm.

So many people confuse the Morning After Pill with the Abortion Pill. Here is an easy way to remember: Morning After Pill prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex, while the abortion pill ends an existing pregnancy.

Maintaining reproductive health and wellness is essential for overall well-being. Make annual check-ups with your health provider a priority as it helps with early detection, comprehensive health monitoring, preventive care, and personalized guidance. Being prepared with effective contraception options and knowing how to handle unexpected moments with emergency contraception empowers women to take control of their reproductive health. By following these tips, women can ensure they are well informed and prepared to manage their reproductive health confidently and effectively. For more information, visit CadenceOTC.com.

2024-06-07T07:05:00

(BPT) – Why is it so hard to find a Father’s Day gift for dad? We may never know. However, if your dad loves to fish, at least you have some options.

The fishing folks at Rapala understand this problem all too well. So, to help those seeking some really great Father’s Day gift recommendations, they invited their top fishing pros to share some ideas that will put a great big smile on Fishin’ Dads everywhere.

1. Pro dreams — Golfin’ Dads dream of playing in major golf tournaments with the world’s top golfing pros. Likewise, Fishin’ Dads dream of fishing in the Bassmaster Elite or Major League Fishing (MLF). If you’re going to fish like a pro, such as Jacob Wheeler, you need the right lures. So what’s winning? This Father’s Day, set your dad up with CrushCity softbaits, which have been responsible for generating big money for some of the top fishing pros in the country.
2. Help Dad get more organized — Some Fishin’ Dads have so many lures, tools, etc., they simply can’t find what they need, when they need it. Help your Fishin’ Dad spend more time fishing and less time looking for the right lures with a durable, see-through tackle tray.
3. Protect Dad from the damaging UV rays — If your dad spends any amount of time in the sun fishing, he needs to protect his skin from damaging UV rays. Help him take care of himself with a cool, but protective long-sleeve, lightweight hoodie with UPF 50+ UV protection.
4. Fishin’ Dads love their new gear — Lures, tackle boxes, new fishing line, clothes — these are all great. But, if you really want to get Fishin’ Dad excited, surprise him with a new rod and reel! If your dad loves bass fishing, consider getting him an Omen spinning rod and Axum spinning reel by 13 Fishing, a brand that makes rods and reels for tournament bass pros.
5. Dads love telling fishin’ stories — Every angler loves to share fishing stories with their fishin’ buddies. Well, let’s be honest, anyone who will listen. To give your dad something to start the conversation, get him a 29-inch replica fishing lure and let him talk about “you need a big lure for the big fish.”
6. Measure up — Some Fishin’ Dads really want to know how much their fish weigh. To help him know exactly how much his next catch weighs, get him a tournament-grade digital scale.
7. Put a cap on it — Like lures, a Fishin’ Dad can’t have enough caps. If you want Dad to look good on the water, set him up with a snapback trucker cap that’s as cool as him.
8. Proven lures that work — Do you have a Fishin’ Dad who only buys stuff that is proven? In other words, they avoid the new and trendy? For this kind of Fishin’ Dad, a proven winner is needed — a classic, if you will. You won’t go wrong by getting him a DT, a lure that dives to the exact depth that an angler is trying to reach fish. It’s been a long-time favorite among tournament pros for years.
9. Big value for Frugal Dad — Some of us love a Frugal Dad. He’s the kind of dad who truly appreciates a great deal. For a frugal dad who fishes, check out the Blue Fox Super Vibrax Tri-Pack — three lures in one package that are proven to catch fish. Such a deal.
10. Keep Dad safe from himself — If you have a Fishin’ Dad who keeps his fishing lures — hooks and all — on his fishing rod, do him a favor by giving him some lure wraps to prevent him from getting his hands accidently caught on those lures.

2024-06-05T13:59:00

(BPT) – Summer is the perfect season for outdoor fun and a great time for families to focus on health and wellness! There are so many ways to enjoy activities that get you and your family moving and grooving in the summer sun, as well as delicious and nutritious foods to fuel those outdoor adventures.

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner recommends five tips that will allow you to enjoy the sunshine while keeping your mind and body energized.

1. Try different types of movement

Healthy movement doesn’t have to always look the same, and it doesn’t have to be boring. You can have a blast while maintaining your wellness, such as playing pickleball, swimming laps to cool off, going paddle boarding or enjoying a lively game of beach volleyball with friends. A trending sport like pickleball is especially fun this time of year, because it’s easy to pick up and can be played by anyone no matter the age or skill level. It’s a fantastic way to get moving, meet new friends and have a ton of fun!

2. Hydrate with coconut water

Water alone is great for hydration, but it isn’t always enough on those super hot days. Try drinking coconut water with a pinch of sea salt to replace the electrolytes you lose by working up a sweat in the heat. It’s low in calories and doesn’t have the added sugar or artificial coloring you may find in sports drinks. Plus, the naturally sweet taste is a great thirst quencher on a warm day.

3. Energize with foods rich in Vitamin B12 early in the day

B12 helps support energy production and keeps you going throughout an active summer day. If you’re looking for foods to add to your diet that are rich in Vitamin B12, try incorporating more dairy products like yogurt and milk, eggs and fish. B12 is naturally found in animal-based foods, but you can also get it in fortified foods such as some plant milks and cereal.

4. Snack on magnesium-rich foods in the evening

Magnesium is great for people with active lifestyles because it supports muscle health, but it also can help you sleep. The Sleep Foundation reports that magnesium helps with duration and quality of sleep, which is important for recovery, especially for those who are more active during the day. When you’re winding down for the night, try snacking on a magnesium trail mix of almonds, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate.

5. Recover and refuel

After an active day, whether you’re playing pickleball or swimming laps in the pool, enjoy a recovery meal with quality carbs, proteins and healthy fats. Egg-centric meals are a great choice, and it’s important to know that not all eggs are created equal. Eggland’s Best eggs contain 25% less saturated fat, more than double the omega-3s and Vitamin B12 and ten times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs, making them a great nutritious option to incorporate into your meals, before or after hitting the pickleball court.

Try this delicious Scrambled Oats recipe, made with Eggland’s Best eggs, that will get the job done after a day of summer fun! Bonus: It’s quick, easy and packed with essential vitamins and nutrients needed for energy. To learn more, or for more great recipes, visit Eggland’s Best.

Plus, Eggland’s Best is giving families across America a chance to win a Grand Prize of $5,000 and a VIP pickleball experience with the Eggland’s Best “Serves Up Summer” Sweepstakes. Now through July 16, Eggland’s Best invites fans to enter daily at EBFamilySweeps.com for a chance to win the Grand Prize and incredible weekly prize packs of pickleball swag that encourage nutrition, fitness and fun!

Scrambled Oats

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Yield/Total Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 2 Eggland’s Best eggs, large
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1.5 cups 2% plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh berries

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash banana, whisk in Eggland’s Best eggs, and stir in oats and cinnamon.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, brush on olive oil.

3. Add mixture to skillet, spread out like a pancake, and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until golden.

4. Break up the oat mixture and “scramble” it like you would eggs, until all the pieces are golden.

5. Serve on Greek yogurt and top with berries.

Additional Notes:

Eat immediately or refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 4 days.

Allergy Info: vegetarian, no added sugar, whole grain (gluten free if made with gluten free oats)

2024-06-05T08:01:01

(BPT) – With the kickoff of summer, and #GlobalRunningDay, many of us are motivated to slip into our sneakers and head outside for a run. A good run enhances strength, contributes to cardiovascular fitness, builds muscle endurance and is a great way to shed pounds. It’s also a boost for your mental health. A recent study in Neuroscience News found aerobic exercise like running leads to an increase in levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine — chemicals that regulate your mood. It also helps promote better sleep, relaxes stress hormones and increases brain function.

So, take this as your sign to get out there! But, in addition to the right footwear, a killer playlist and an interesting route for your workout, it’s vital to focus on nutrition. Regardless of the distance or duration of your run, sports nutrition is an important key to your performance.

Most runners know they should get some carbs, protein, and stay hydrated. But how much, and when? Before, during or after your run? Dana Ryan, Ph.D., MA, MBA, director of Sports Performance, Nutrition and Education and Chair of the Fitness Advisory Board at Herbalife, offers these tips to get moving with good nutrition.

Start with the basics. Whether you’re a distance runner or a new jogger working up to your first mile, a good basic diet is the building block for great performance. Fruits, veggies, lean protein, healthy fats and good carbohydrates are a must.

Pre-workout boost. As you near your run, you want to focus on liquids. One to two hours before your workout, drink a protein shake that includes carbohydrates. Protein helps your brain and body function and gives you an energy boost, and those carbs keep you going. Within 30 minutes of your run, a pre-workout drink that contains caffeine and nitric oxide precursors is a good option. The two things you want to avoid pre workout are fiber and fat as they are hard for the body to digest.

Hydrate! This is vital before, during and after your workout. Proper hydration is essential not only for general body functions, but also boosts performance and mitigates dehydration during running. Runners need to maintain body water balance, because water provides nourishment that the body needs for almost every single function. It also helps limit changes in body temperature. For hydration, water alone is great. Water with electrolytes kicks it up a notch. Herbalife24 CR7 Drive was designed to support athletes. It enhances hydration with 320 mg of electrolytes that you can lose during exercise, and B12.

Carb it up. For many dieters, carbs are taboo. But for runners, or people who do other high-intensity workouts, carbs are key to performance. If you’ve ever run out of steam or hit a wall during a workout, it could be because you’re low on carbs. While running, it’s crucial to replace what the body is losing, namely carbohydrates and electrolytes. One’s body fatigues because of the depletion of carbohydrate reserves and dehydration due to loss of water and electrolytes in sweat, both of which hinder sports performance. So, for every hour of running, consume about 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates through a sports drink.

Finish with protein. Immediately following the completion of a run, make sure to get some protein in. Within 30 minutes of finishing your workout, consume 20 to 40 grams of high-quality protein, no matter how long the run was. And for those longer runs, add in some carbohydrates to be closer to a 3:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio. Why? Protein after a run helps your muscles repair and recover. The amino acids in protein help build lean muscle, which is exactly what you want.

No matter your fitness level, nutrition is an important part of getting the most out of your workout. Now, get out there and move!

2024-06-05T07:31:00

(BPT) – It’s difficult to distance ourselves from screens; they follow us everywhere — in the car, into stores, at restaurants and all around our houses. Children often become reliant on screens for entertainment, and parents sometimes use screens as a distraction. While there’s high-quality, educational digital content available, even too much of a good thing can be detrimental. It’s important for parents to make sure their children are experiencing a well-rounded mix of free play, both inside and outside, along with technology usage.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend children under the age of 18 months have no screen time except for video chatting, and children ages 2 to 5 spend no more than one hour per day watching a device.

The harmful effects of screen time have been well researched. In fact, evidence suggests that even television shows claiming to be stimulating and educational are not as effective for infants and toddlers as face-to-face interactions with a caregiver. Too much screen time has also been linked to poor sleep, delays in language and social skills, obesity, behavior problems and more. Allowing children to play in a setting that is unstructured, open-ended and encourages exploration is more beneficial than placing them in front of a device.

So, what can parents do to help their children escape the all-consuming screen? Get outside!

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), outdoor play is essential for the healthy development of children. Not only does outdoor play promote physical health but it also helps children make connections to the real world and develops their STEM skills. Plus, fresh air and exposure to sunlight have numerous health benefits for children, including stress reduction and better sleep.

Children can sometimes be resistant to heading outside, especially if they’re interrupted during screen time. Head off potential complaints by setting a timer and letting them know that once they’re done, it will be time to play outside. Let them pick out their shoes and give them two choices of activity so they feel empowered and in control.

Experts at Kiddie Academy^® Educational Child Care recommend several outdoor activities developed from their proprietary Life Essentials^® curriculum to help parents get children excited about spending time outside.

• Infants can enjoy several outdoor activities like tummy time on a blanket in the park, wiggling their toes in the grass and listening to bird sounds.
• Toddlers benefit from going on nature walks and discovering items like pinecones and leaves and helping their caregivers plant flowers, fruits and vegetables.
• For active preschoolers and older children, make an obstacle course challenge with chalk and other items like tactile discs, hula hoops, pool noodles and more. Older children also enjoy searching for bugs and creating art from things found in nature.

Unstructured outdoor play, like spending time in the sandbox or on a playground, includes fun activities that give children of all ages the opportunity to explore independently. Parents should feel free to sit back and just observe these times, making sure their children are safe while allowing them to discover the magic of outdoor play on their own.

“In addition to enhancing well-being, outdoor play helps children understand their role in the world so they can be good stewards of our planet,” said Samina Hooda, co-owner of Kiddie Academy of Mercer Crossing in Dallas.

Help your children develop a love of the outdoors at an early age and watch them flourish — emotionally, physically and intellectually.