Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-08-08T06:01:00

(BPT) – Talking to your teen about mental health and drug use can feel challenging — one wrong move and the conversation ends as soon as it begins. But it is possible, and taking that leap can make all the difference in your teen’s life. As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to understand the connection between your teen’s mental health and potential for substance use. Staying connected can reduce their risk for drug use.

On International Overdose Awareness Day, Aug. 31, and Recovery Month, in September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is raising awareness of the connection between youth substance use and mental health to help prevent teens from trying drugs and worse, overdosing on drugs. Real change can begin to happen by strengthening teens’ connections with their parents and caregivers.

“Teens may use alcohol and other substances to help them cope with mental health challenges like stress, anxiety and depression. Over time, this ongoing use can lead to a substance use disorder,” said Dr. Allison Arwady, Director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Control and Prevention. “Learning about the substances teens may use and proactively supporting teens in areas such as having positive relationships, ensuring they have a strong sense of self and helping them be involved in their community can help them stay healthy.”

Follow these three steps to start a conversation with your teen today:

1. Educate yourself.

Take time to understand the types of substances teens may use and the resources available for you and your teen. Educating yourself on the issues your teen faces can help you navigate through the tough questions.

2. Use everyday opportunities to start talking.

Have honest conversations with your teen. Talking with your teen about their mental health can help create a real connection and even help prevent substance use. Having a shared activity can help both of you feel more relaxed while you talk. This could be playing a sport, gaming, taking a walk or even getting a bite to eat. Avoid pointed questions, listen more than you speak and remember, you don’t have to have the entire conversation at once.

3. Lead with compassion and create a judgment-free zone.

While as a parent this can be difficult as you want to protect and discipline your child, leading conversations with empathy can make teens feel more comfortable coming to you when they have questions or need support. Assure your teen that you will always be there for them, no matter what. Check in regularly to keep the conversation going and help protect them against the pressure to use drugs and alcohol.

Building trust with your teen takes time, and it’s OK if they don’t open up right away. By doing your research and having open conversations, you are showing your teen that their health is your top priority.

If you’re unsure of how to start, the Free Mind campaign for teens has resources available for parents and caregivers. The campaign was created through research and real conversations with youth, parents and caregivers. Visit cdc.gov/freemind/parents.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2013–2023. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2024.

Family and Youth Services Bureau. Positive Youth Development. Retrieved May 1, 2025, from https://acf.gov/fysb/positive-youth-development

2025-08-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – Closing out summer with a relaxing vacay or planning a beach day? Summer may be speeding by but there’s still time left for outdoor excursions and fun in the sun. Walgreens makes it easy to enjoy and prepare for sunny excursions with everything you need for your end of summer bag that’s also easy on the budget — from drinks and snacks to high-performing sun care products.

Quality summer skin protection without the splurge

Sun protection is crucial during summer months due to increased exposure to harmful UV rays. Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays can prevent sunburn, premature aging and significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer. From barrier-boosting SPF to cooling aloe gel, Walgreens offers affordable alternatives that rival prestige picks.

Big summer energy, small summer budget

With value top of mind, Walgreens helps you stock up on end of summer essentials while staying on budget. Think cooling deodorant sprays, electrolyte drink mixes, travel-ready hand sanitizers and sweet snack packs that make your beach bag ready for outdoor fun. This is outdoor preparedness, simplified: protect, hydrate, refresh and snack smart.

“As we enter the final stretch of summer, it’s important to remember that UV rays and high temperatures are still in the forecast,” said Sonali Kshatriya, Senior Manager of Clinical Program Excellence and Innovation. “Whether you’re hitting the pool or taking a final vacation before back-to-school, prioritizing sun protection and hydration is key — even when it’s cloudy outside.”

Here’s a list of the top 10 end of summer must-haves to help stock your vacay or beach bag, according to a Walgreens pharmacist:

Sun Protection and Skin Care

1. Walgreens Radiant Facial Sunscreen SPF 40 gives you premium, sheer broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays while moisturizing skin for a glowy, radiant finish. Recommended for normal, combination or dry skin, this lightweight formula absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores.

2. Walgreens Sport Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF 50, Fresh provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection while also being water resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t run into your eyes. It contains no oxybenzone, CFCs or added parabens.

3. Secret Aluminum Free Cooling Spray Deodorant For Women in Peach & Vanilla offers 72-hour odor protection, cooling skin by 10 degrees. It’s versatile and provides a soothing sensation and long-lasting freshness.

4. ChapStick SPF 15 glides on smoothly and evenly, providing a protective lip balm featuring an ultra-hydrating formula with 11 moisturizing ingredients along with SPF 15 sun protection.

5. Walgreens Hand Sanitizer + Aloe & Vitamin E effectively eliminates 99.99% of many common harmful germs and bacteria in as little as 15 seconds. Best yet, it contains moisturizers to leave your hands feeling soft.

Hydration and Snacks

6. Smartwater Vapor Distilled Premium Water Bottle, 33.8 fluid ounces offers purity you can taste, leaving you feeling refreshed whether you’re running errands, working out or soaking up some sun poolside.

7. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier — Sugar Free Electrolyte Drink Mix is scientifically and clinically tested to be more hydrating than water alone, with 5 essential vitamins: B3, B5, B6, B12 and vitamin C. It’s also sugar-free and low calorie, with just 20 calories per serving.

8. Nice! For You Snack Mix Blueberry Pie, 2.25 ounces provides tasty blueberry-flavored yogurt pie crust cookie gems, butter toffee almonds, blueberries and cranberries for easy snacking when you’re at the park, the beach or the gym. Each snack mix is just 140 calories, in a small package that won’t take up too much space in your summer bag.

After-Sun Relief

And — in case your summer sun preparedness didn’t go as planned — some Walgreens pharmacist-approved after-sun care and treatment recommendations:

9. Walgreens Dye-Free After Sun Gel cools and soothes skin while helping restore moisture. Just what your body needs after a day in the sun. Safe to use on sensitive skin, this refreshing aloe-based gel replenishes moisture and softens skin with a non-oily formula that absorbs quickly for easy application on legs, arms, shoulders, back and face to help prevent peeling.

10. Walgreens Ibuprofen Tablets, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can help reduce inflammation, pain and redness associated with sunburn. They are most effective when taken early, even before the redness fully develops. With bottles available in a range of sizes, shoppers can pick up a travel size to keep handy when they’re on the go.

All packed up and ready to go

Walgreens can help savvy shoppers find value on everyday end of summer necessities, everything from portable snacks to sun care and more, in one convenient place. For even more convenience and value, grab the Walgreens Summer Essentials Kit, a curated bundle valued at more than $50 for only half the price at $24.99. Pre-packed and ready to go, it’s the perfect one stop solution for summer on the run.

Shop these and other summer essentials online at Walgreens.com or at your local Walgreens store.

2025-08-06T15:53:00

(BPT) – Looking for a new phone plan? With great options for families and superior roaming in over 15 countries, Total Wireless is the clear option.

2025-08-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – There’s something energizing about the start of a new school year, especially the moment kids open fresh packs of their favorite Crayola crayons, markers, and colored pencils. These vibrant tools don’t just fill pencil cases; they spark creativity, fuel imagination, and empower self-expression both in the classroom and at home. With every bold stroke and colorful doodle, kids are inspired to explore, learn, and make their mark on the world.

Crayola drawing connections between color and creativity isn’t just anecdotal—research backs it up. According to a 2024 Color Perception Survey* conducted by Crayola in partnership with the Ad Council Research Institute, color rates as the most impactful element in planning important milestones, symbolizing meaningful aspects of life and describing something as beautiful or unique by more than 88% of respondents. These emotional ties to color also lend themselves to self-expression, as 87% of those surveyed believe that color significantly influences creativity.

Become A Part of Crayola History

Given the powerful role that color plays in everyone’s lives, Crayola—the iconic brand synonymous with color and creativity—is bringing even more excitement to this back-to-school season with the Global Color Vote. For the first time in company history, Crayola is inviting color enthusiasts of all ages to vote for their favorite Crayola colors. Global Color Vote gives people around the world the unique opportunity to influence the creation of a special collection of crayons, colored pencils, and markers based on the colors that mean the most to them.

Through Sept. 30, consumers can cast their vote for their favorite color by visiting www.crayola.com/votenow or by scanning the QR code on the back of Crayola “What’s your Favorite Color?” products such as 24-count Classic Crayons, 12-count Colored Pencils and 10-count Classic Colors Broad Line Markers during back-to-school shopping.

Grab Limited Edition Colors Before They’re Gone!

While you’re voting for your favorite color, you can also celebrate past fan-favorite crayon colors, with the Crayola Limited Edition collection. Prepare for a colorful new school year with a blast from the past, celebrating previously retired Crayola crayon colors that have brightened classrooms for generations. The Crayola Limited Edition Retired Colors Collection features colors Dandelion, Mulberry, Blizzard Blue, Raw Umber, Lemon Yellow, Orange Red, Violet Blue and Magic Mint in 8 Count Crayons, 8 Count Markers and 8 Count Colored Pencils. Get them while you can—these beloved colors return to retirement at the end of 2025!

If you’re a budding artist, a seasoned Crayola collector or a teacher stocking up on supplies, these limited edition art tools allow fans to get reacquainted with some of their past favorite crayon colors, and for some, meet these colors for the first time.

Creativity for the Entire Classroom

Whether you’re participating in the Global Color Vote or celebrating Limited Edition retired colors, teachers, parents, and students can find all their favorite Crayola back-to-school supplies at retailers nationwide, offering trusted quality and exceptional value at the same great price parents know and love. To show support for educators, consider purchasing bulk packs of top-listed items like Crayons, Markers, and Colored Pencils to help provide much-needed supplies that fuel learning and creativity for the entire classroom.

Make this school season one for the books by giving the students in your life new items like Limited Edition or fan-favorite Crayola classics like 24 Count Crayons. Plus, be a part of history and participate in the first-ever Global Color Vote.

*Color Perception Survey Methodology: Findings from a nationwide study conducted by Crayola in partnership with the Ad Council Research Institute from Oct. 16-23, 2024, with 1,503 parents of kids aged 2-12.

2025-08-04T10:01:00

(BPT) – In the business world, talent and tenacity are often described as the ultimate equalizers. But for many startup founders — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — the reality is more complicated. Access to capital remains uneven. Networks that open doors to advisors, investors and early customers are often closed circles. These structural challenges can stall progress before it even begins.

Despite these headwinds, founders from these communities are launching some of the most resilient, creative ventures in technology today. What’s needed isn’t just grit — it’s access, context-specific support and a clear path to scale.

Now underrepresented founders have a new opportunity that can help supercharge their success.

Amazon Web Services (AWS), in partnership with Techstars, a pre-seed investor backing startups building a better future for everyone, recognizes the importance of helping founders create transformative solutions, and as part of this commitment, they’ve recently launched a global initiative designed to support underrepresented founders around the globe.

Enter the AWS Impact Bootcamps

If you’re an underrepresented founder building something bold, AWS Impact Bootcamps are for you. Over two days, you’ll get deep technical training with real tools, expert business advice from people who’ve done it before and direct access to mentors, investors and support that actually matters.

AWS Impact Bootcamps builds on AWS’s $30 million commitment to Black, Women, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ founders launched in 2022 and scales AWS’s global footprint in supporting hundreds more diverse founders beyond the U.S. to reach other countries around the world.

For many early-stage founders, the distance between a great idea and a fundable startup isn’t talent — it’s translation. Turning a product into a business means understanding how to pitch, how to price and how to map a go-to-market strategy. But, for founders who don’t have access to seasoned advisors, this translation gap can stall momentum.

This is where initiatives like the AWS Impact Bootcamps come in. By designing a curriculum specifically around the most acute challenges underrepresented founders face, the bootcamps aim to equip participants with tools that often take years to acquire.

Scaling access, one city at a time

Each bootcamp accommodates up to 50 founders per city, delivering focused training on critical business themes like sales, GTM (go-to-market) or fundraising. The AWS Impact Bootcamps program will launch in six cities across North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia-Pacific:

• Atlanta, Georgia, United States (Sept. 8-9)
• New York, New York, United States (Sept. 15-16)
• Mexico City, Mexico (Oct. 1-2, 2025)
• London, United Kingdom (Oct. 16-17, 2025)
• Tokyo, Japan (TBD early 2026)
• Berlin, Germany (TBD early 2026)

Each bootcamp will deliver an intensive two-day experience, equipping early-stage, underrepresented founders with deep technical training with real tools, expert business advice and access to mentors, investors and community, in addition to $5,000 in AWS promotional credits to get building on the world’s leading cloud. Workshops will be managed locally by the program partner, Techstars.

Join the next generation of founders

To apply, founding teams must identify as a member of an underrepresented community (Black, Women, Latino, Indigenous, LGBTQIA+, and founders with disabilities), or demonstrate work, activities or engagement that otherwise supports such communities. Applicants must also demonstrate clear cloud technology needs and have secured pre-seed or angel funding up to $2 million. Additionally, they should be operating with a publicly launched product, be under 5 years old and commit to the full two-day program.

Founders can learn more about the AWS Impact Bootcamps here: https://aws.amazon.com/startups/lp/aws-impact-bootcamps.

2025-08-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Electric vehicles have put a charge into the U.S. automotive market, but there’s a burning question many drivers still have: How can tires help them get the most out of their EVs?

From October 2024 to January 2025, hybrid and electric vehicles accounted for 25% of new vehicle sales in the United States — a 32% year-over-year increase, according to S&P Global.

The American EV segment may be showing electrifying growth these days, but global tiremaker Nokian Tyres has developed tires with EVs in mind for many years. Way back in 2012, the inventor of the winter and all-weather passenger tires set a world record for the fastest electric vehicle on ice. Every tire the company makes comes with an Electric Fit marking that certifies it’s a seamless fit for EVs.

What does Nokian Tyres have to say about EV tires? And how are tiremakers working hard to meet the needs of this emerging market?

It starts by recognizing the unique demands electric vehicles place on tires.

Weight

Electric vehicles are generally 10 to 15% heavier than internal combustion engine vehicles. That places extra wear and tear on traditional tires. Rubber that isn’t durable enough to withstand the added bulk will wear out more quickly, and sometimes irregularly.

That makes blowouts more likely and driving less efficient. The added weight can also increase braking time and cause handling issues on challenging surfaces, such as rain or wintry precipitation.

Tiremakers seek to account for the heavier load by constructing tires with heavier-duty materials and formulating rubber compounds to be more responsive to the road. Nokian Tyres reinforces its EV-compatible products with robust internal structures and advanced materials that maintain stability and durability under heavier loads. The result is a tire that delivers confident handling and long-lasting performance, even under the increased demands of electric mobility.

Noise

Without the hum of an engine, EVs make road noise more noticeable. The main sound drivers notice in the cabin is the noise of tires touching the road. Tire manufacturers seek to mitigate noise frequencies by using tread patterns, rubber compounds and materials that dampen sound waves.

Nokian Tyres addresses this with innovative noise-reduction technologies, including silent sidewall designs and optimized tread patterns that absorb sound and reduce vibration. Nokian Tyres inserts acoustic foam into its dedicated EV winter products, the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10 EV and R5 EV. The result is a smoother, quieter ride that complements the serene driving experience EV owners expect.

Torque

Electric vehicles are powerful. They often deliver two to three times more torque than comparable ICE vehicles, especially in the mainstream and luxury segments. And because that torque is available instantly, EVs feel quicker and more responsive in everyday driving.

That extra acceleration power presents a challenge to tires, since rapid changes in speed can cause them to wear more quickly. Drivers should pursue tires that can withstand high torque and deliver grip that maximizes their vehicles’ acceleration power. The key: tread patterns and rubber compounds that balance durability and responsiveness.

Nokian Tyres engineers its EV tires with advanced tread compounds and reinforced structures that resist abrasion and maintain grip under sudden acceleration. This helps drivers enjoy the full performance of their EVs without compromising safety or longevity.

Range

Tire design plays a critical role in EV range. High rolling resistance can drain battery life, while optimized tires can help extend it.

How do tiremakers lower the rolling resistance of their tires, helping to optimize EV range? Design plays a big role. According to Nokian Tyres, a tire’s sidewall construction, tread pattern and rubber compound play a role in reducing rolling resistance.

Nokian Tyres’ EV-compatible products feature low-rolling-resistance compounds that reduce energy loss and improve efficiency; in fact, more than 90% of Nokian Tyres products rank in the lowest categories of rolling resistance. This means drivers can go farther on a single charge — an essential benefit for those looking to maximize their vehicle’s potential.

For the right driver, electric vehicles can offer big advantages over rides powered by internal combustion engines. But that’s only true if the tires are up to the challenge.

For more recommendations about EV tires, visit NokianTires.com/EVs.

2025-08-04T11:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is about fun, relaxation — and savoring every moment. To make the most of your summer days, premium chocolate maker Chocolove has irresistible new flavors, a smattering of s’mores options and a decadently refreshing milkshake recipe to help you indulge.

Get nutty with 3 new flavors

Whether you go crazy for pistachios, pecans or walnuts — or all three — Chocolove has you covered with new perfectly balanced nut flavors that are both delicious and rich in texture.

• Milk Chocolate with Pistachios & Sea Salt: rich, creamy milk chocolate paired with the delicate crunch of roasted pistachios and a hint of sea salt for satisfying flavor in every bite, complete with antioxidants, healthy fats and fiber.
• Milk Chocolate with Pecans, Cookies & Sea Salt: a comforting blend of velvety milk chocolate, decadent crumbles of cookies and crunchy rich pecans to evoke memories of nostalgic dessert flavors.
• Dark Chocolate with Walnuts & Sea Salt: bold, sophisticated dark chocolate harmonizing perfectly with the earthy crunch of walnuts and a savory touch of sea salt, delivering elevated taste plus omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Want to try them all? Enjoy these new flavors at Chocolove.com and for a limited time in a special 6-pack assortment box with two of each variety, ideal for sampling and gifting. Also, look for the nut bars in retail stores including Natural Grocers, Harris Teeter, Raley’s, New Seasons, and Fresh Thyme.

Savor the richness of Dubai Style Milk Chocolate

For a chocolate experience that satisfies all of your senses, the new Dubai Style Milk Chocolate Pistachio & Kadayif Bites Gift Box combines luxurious flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

Wrapped in velvety milk chocolate, each handcrafted, bite-sized piece is filled with a creamy pistachio center blended with crisp strands of Kadayif pastry, a finely shredded phyllo adding delightful crunch. It’s a delicious way to celebrate life’s little luxuries — and the perfect gift for foodies who appreciate unique and elevated desserts.

Level up your s’mores

Whether you make these summertime treats at the fireside or in your toaster oven, s’mores season calls for something special. Keep it classic with smooth milk or bold dark chocolate, or add a decadent twist with filled or flavored bars. Try these tasty options for crave-worthy s’mores that transform a childhood favorite into a gourmet experience.

• Hawaiian Sea Salt in Strong Dark Chocolate: strong, bittersweet dark chocolate complemented by Hawaiian Alaea red sea salt for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
• Raspberries in Dark Chocolate: smooth semi-sweet dark chocolate with crispy bits of tart freeze-dried raspberry pieces bursting with flavor for a harmonious combination that will transform your s’mores into a celebration of summer.
• Milk Chocolate: a classic s’mores must-have — creamy milk chocolate offering caramel-like flavors blending into a light cocoa finish.
• Salted Caramel in Dark Chocolate: salted caramel filling is enveloped in classic premium dark chocolate.

Shake things up with this sweet summer recipe

Experience the refreshing bliss of a cool, creamy Chocolove Double Chocolate Milkshake, perfect for a hot summer day. Combining the rich, velvety taste of Chocolove Milk Chocolate with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream, this milkshake is a quick and easy delight your whole family will love. To elevate the decadence, add a luxurious drizzle of Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate.

For a delightful dessert or sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this milkshake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s an effortless way to enjoy a touch of chocolate heaven anytime. Follow the directions below.

Double Chocolate Bliss Milkshake
Prep time: 15 minutes; Serves 2

Ingredients
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 bar Chocolove Milk Chocolate (3.2 ounces), melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 bar Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate (1.6 ounces), melted (for drizzle)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chocolate shavings for sprinkles (optional, for garnish)

Recipe
Melt chocolate: Break Milk and Dark Chocolate bars into pieces. Melt separately in microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.

Drizzle glasses: Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle melted Dark Chocolate, coating the inside and outside rim of the serving glasses.

Blend shake: In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, melted Milk Chocolate and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Serve: Pour milkshake into glasses. Top with whipped cream and garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

With these special treats and recipes, your summer just got a whole lot sweeter. You can also feel good knowing Chocolove is ethically sourced and made from traceable, Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients, and most flavors are Rainforest Alliance Certified, meaning Chocolove’s sourcing practices support a better future for cocoa farmers and their families. Chocolove is also free of artificial preservatives for a decadent, world-class flavor experience.

Find everything you need to savor the summer at Chocolove.com, Amazon, Whole Foods Market, Publix, Walgreens, Safeway, Albertsons, Kroger, Walmart, Target, Sprouts and a variety of independent and natural retailers.

2025-08-04T10:01:00

(BPT) – If you’ve been avoiding the dentist due to budget concerns, you’re not alone. Economic pressures are forcing millions of Americans to delay health care, and dental visits are often the first to go.

The ripple effect is especially pronounced in lower-income households. About half (46%) of Americans have skipped or delayed dental care due to cost, according to the ADA Health Policy Institute. This trend, though it may seem cost-effective in the short term, often leads to worsening conditions needing more complex, expensive treatment down the road. These economic realities are concerning not just for oral health, but for your overall well-being. Skipping routine dental care can have far-reaching consequences, leading to more severe oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease, as well as missed opportunities to detect conditions such as oral cancers. Ignoring dental problems often results in greater financial, physical and emotional costs later.

Aspen Dental, a national leader in affordable tooth replacement options including implants and dentures, is stepping up to bridge the gap and address these challenges head-on.

Innovative, accessible solutions for every patient

Aspen Dental’s patient-first approach is designed to alleviate the financial burdens that prevent so many from seeking care. For those without insurance, Aspen offers a savings plan with exclusive member discounts on most dental services to make essential treatments accessible and affordable. The Aspen Dental Savings Plan, combined with transparent pricing and flexible financing options, ensure patients can get the care they need without compromising on quality.

Leading the way in comprehensive tooth replacement solutions

As a recognized leader in tooth replacement, Aspen Dental provides solutions tailored to meet a wide range of needs and budgets. In addition to traditional dentures, patients at many offices have access to digital dentures, which use cutting-edge technology to ensure precise fit and quick turnaround. For those seeking permanent solutions, Aspen Dental provides dental implants that can last 25 years or longer with proper care. Also available are implant dentures, which combine the stability of implants with the affordability of traditional dentures.

Aspen Dental’s network of clinicians lead the industry in incorporating the most advanced tools and technologies into their practices, from on-site labs and digital scanning to a doctor-led, state-of-the-art options for straightening teeth.

These comprehensive services demonstrate affordability and innovation can coexist, providing patients with care that is high-quality and accessible.

Addressing the dental care crisis in underserved areas

Nearly 60 million Americans currently live in areas with insufficient access to dental services, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration. This means fewer than one dentist for every 5,000 people. In many rural areas, there are none.

Limited access to dental care disproportionately affects rural regions, where nearly 34% of counties in the U.S. do not have a single dental practitioner, increasing both oral and general health disparities.

With over 1,100 locations in 46 states and 3,000 trusted dental clinicians, Aspen Dental uses its expansive reach to bring much-needed services to underserved populations. Following a mission to expand access to dental care for all, Aspen Dental’s presence is felt in communities across the country that have a limited number of providers or clinics offering affordable care options.

“For many communities, Aspen Dental is the first meaningful access point to quality oral healthcare,” said dentist and managing clinical director, Dr. Pamela Ellis. “Doctors across the Aspen network believe every person deserves a healthy smile, no matter their zip code, income or insurance status.”

By establishing offices in rural areas and underserved urban neighborhoods and equipping them with advanced technology and state-of-the-art treatment options, Aspen Dental is breaking down barriers to care.

Why delaying dental care costs more in the long run

Economic uncertainty directly impacts people’s ability to maintain their health and quality of life. Recent research from the National Association of Dental Plans shows that while preventive dental visits have remained relatively stable, many patients are avoiding non-urgent and cosmetic treatments, leading to a cascade of untreated issues over time. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also highlights how limited preventive care results in higher rates of untreated tooth decay among adults, with 1 in 4 adults aged 20-64 living with untreated dental issues.

“It’s heartbreaking to see patients delay critical care due to financial pressures, especially when untreated dental issues can quickly escalate,” said practice owner Dr. Whitney White. “We’re here to provide solutions that fit every patient’s need, so they never have to choose between their health and financial well-being.”

A lifeline for affordable dental care

As many Americans face economic uncertainty, Aspen Dental provides a lifeline for millions seeking affordable and reliable oral health care. With a focus on underserved communities, innovative treatments and patient-first solutions, Aspen is bridging the gap for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

“The cost of care should never be a barrier to maintaining your health,” White continued. “Aspen Dental is proud to be a trusted partner for patients across the country, providing care where it’s needed most and helping Americans maintain their smiles even during times of economic uncertainty.”

For more information about Aspen Dental’s comprehensive tooth replacement solutions or to find a dentist near you, visit AspenDental.com.

2025-07-31T08:17:01

(BPT) – As fall routines ramp up and calendars fill, it’s natural to feel a little off-kilter. Transitioning from the relaxed pace of summer to the structure of a new school and work schedule can take a toll — not just on your time but also on your digestive system, too. In fact, studies show that stress can affect health through its impact on gut bacteria.

To help you stay energized, focused and feeling your best this season, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner is sharing her go-to gut health tips. These simple, effective strategies will help keep your digestion on track so you can ease into autumn with confidence and comfort.

1. Boost digestion before breakfast

Blatner suggests starting your morning with a warm glass of lemon water before eating anything. This easy habit helps rehydrate your body after a night’s rest and gently wakes up your digestive system. According to Cleveland Clinic, the natural acidity of lemon can help break down food in your stomach and set the tone for smoother digestion all day long.

2. Get moving early

Incorporating a little light movement to your morning routine can do wonders for your gut. Whether it’s a quick walk, a gentle yoga flow or a few minutes of stretching, getting your body moving can promote regularity. This small step not only supports gut health but also boosts energy levels throughout the day.

3. Take time to destress daily

Chronic stress can affect your mood and therefore disrupt your gut microbiome. Set aside a few minutes each day to unwind with a calming ritual, like deep breathing, journaling or sipping a cup of herbal tea. These simple stress-reducing habits can help lower cortisol levels, which in turn supports a more balanced and resilient digestive system.

4. Be consistent with mealtime

Your digestive system thrives on routine. Another way to promote regularity is by sticking to consistent mealtimes, even on the weekends. Eating at roughly the same times each day helps “train” your gut to expect and process food more efficiently, reducing uncomfortable symptoms like bloating and sluggishness.

5. Give your body time to digest

Blatner also advises that staying upright after meals is key to avoiding indigestion, especially if you’re prone to issues like acid reflux. Lying down too soon after having a meal can interfere with your body’s natural digestive flow. Try to allow for a few hours between your last meal and bedtime to support better digestion and sleep.

6. Make smart, balanced meal choices

What you eat plays a major role in how your gut feels. Blatner recommends focusing on balanced meals that are rich in protein, fiber and a variety of nutrients to keep energy levels stable and digestion running smoothly. Recipes like this Superfood Egg Sandwich from Eggland’s Best is packed with gut-friendly ingredients like Greek yogurt, spinach and seeds, and can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Omega-3s compared to ordinary eggs, which can be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting a balanced gut environment. Eggland’s Best eggs also contain six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs, which helps boost your body’s immunity and helps fight off harmful bacteria.

Superfood Egg Sandwich
Prep time 15 minutes
Cook time 10 minutes
Yield 2 servings

Ingredients

• 4 Eggland’s Best organic eggs, large
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise substitute (1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, pinch of salt, pepper to taste)
• 4 slices grain bread (for example, wheat, spelt and rye bread)
• 1 packed cup raw baby spinach leaves, arugula, cucumbers and microgreens
• 2 teaspoons mixed seeds (for example, a mixture of chia, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds)
• 1 small avocado, sliced

Preparation

1. Bring eggs to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Drain and cool, then peel and chop.
3. Add Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper and mix.
4. Add sliced cucumbers, avocado, spinach and arugula. *Disclaimer: greens to be thoroughly washed before consuming.
5. Top with egg mixture and add seeds. Then add avocado and microgreens.
6. Build sandwich and repeat! Slice and serve.

With these tips and this tasty recipe, you can help to start off your autumn routine feeling more energetic and ready to face each day.

To find Eggland’s Best eggs near you, plus more recipe inspiration, visit EgglandsBest.com.

2025-07-31T07:01:00

(BPT) – Summertime means making memories by the pool and enjoying time with family and friends. While having fun in the sun, it’s never too late to take precautions, especially for children in and around the water. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) encourages families to incorporate simple safety tips into their pool routines to keep their families safer this summer.

Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, and, according to a recent report from CPSC, an average of 357 children under the age of 15 fatally drowned in pool- or spa-related incidents each year from 2020 to 2022. Fatal drownings are consistently highest during the summer months, emphasizing the importance of ensuring children’s safety throughout the peak of swim season.

By following these simple safety tips, you can help to keep children safer and prevent childhood drownings:

1. Install barriers around residential pools and spas

Barriers are often the first line of defense to prevent unsupervised children from accessing the pool, one of the most likely drowning scenarios. Common barriers include pool fences, door and pool alarms, and pool covers. Pool fences should be at least 4 feet tall and impossible for children to climb. It’s important to have self-closing, self-latching devices on fence gates and doors that access pools.

2. Teach children to swim

Swimming lessons are often available from organizations that operate in local communities, such as local Departments of Recreation. These lessons are not only fun but are a lifesaving skill.

3. Identify an adult Water Watcher

A designated Water Watcher — typically a parent, guardian, or trusted friend — monitors and supervises children in and around pools and spas. A Water Watcher should not be distracted and avoid reading, texting, and using a phone while performing this duty. To give everyone a chance to relax, create a schedule that allows for swapping every 15 minutes.

4. Learn how to perform CPR

This summer, sign up to become CPR certified for both children and adults. The American Red Cross offers classes, which are often available in-person and online.

5. Ensure drain covers meet federal safety standards

Teach your children to stay away from pool and spa covers, pipes, and other openings to prevent entrapment. Further, inspect your pool and spa drain covers to ensure they comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Act and haven’t been recalled. Check CPSC.gov/recalls and sign up for recall email alerts.

By following these simple safety tips, we can all do our part to help prevent childhood drowning. To learn more about pool and spa safety, visit poolsafely.gov.