2025-04-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Now more than ever, consumers are paying closer attention to the ingredients in their food, prioritizing high-quality products made with simple ingredients. With a growing demand for authenticity, they seek out brands that uphold traditional craftsmanship with a focus on quality and integrity.

This is where Galbani^® Fresh Mozzarella truly stands apart. Free from added whiteners like titanium dioxide — a synthetic agent commonly found in certain foods, toothpaste and cosmetics — Galbani stays true to tradition. As Italy’s #1 cheese brand, it brings the authentic fior di latte experience to American kitchens, delivering a cow’s milk fresh mozzarella with a luscious, milky flavor and irresistibly soft texture. Whether layered in a classic Caprese or melted into a gourmet dish, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella elevates every bite with Italian-inspired excellence.

What sets fresh mozzarella apart

At the heart of the Galbani process is a dedication to time-honored techniques. Inspired by Italy’s classic fior di latte tradition, skilled cheesemakers use traditional kneading and stretching methods to create the mozzarella. Known for having the highest moisture content of all mozzarella varieties, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella delivers a creamy flavor that melts beautifully in any dish.

Galbani Fresh Mozzarella is crafted with simple, high-quality ingredients and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Made without titanium dioxide, it offers a delicious fresh mozzarella experience you can trust. It is made in the USA with rBST-free milk, sourced from farms an average of less than 35 miles from the production plant. This high-quality milk results in cheese with exceptional taste and texture. The cheese is Kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it a versatile choice for a variety of dietary preferences. Thanks to innovative manufacturing technology, every batch delivers consistent flavor, texture and freshness, ensuring a premium experience in every bite.

Tips for storing and using fresh mozzarella

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and texture of Galbani Fresh Mozzarella. After opening, the cheese should be kept refrigerated in an airtight container, ideally in its original liquid, to maintain its signature soft texture. When stored correctly, it remains fresh for up to three days. Whether paired with seasonal produce in a classic Caprese salad, layered on artisanal pizzas, or melted into baked pastas and paninis, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella elevates any dish with its rich, milky flavor.

The Galbani difference

With an unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity and taste, Galbani ensures that consumers receive only the finest fresh mozzarella. Galbani Fresh Mozzarella is produced in the United States by Lactalis USA, a division of Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company. Find Galbani Fresh Mozzarella at major retailers nationwide. For more product details, storage tips and recipe inspiration, visit www.galbanicheese.com.

2025-04-29T09:01:00

(BPT) – Menopause and perimenopause are a natural part of a woman’s life. It signals the end of her menstrual cycle and tends to occur between the ages of 45 and 55. However, the transition can bring challenges.

Menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms can get in the way of living life to the fullest in a woman’s later years. From physical symptoms like hot flashes to mental and emotional challenges like memory issues and nervousness, these menopausal symptoms can impact a woman’s daily routine.

A common way to manage menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms is through hormone therapies. While these treatments can be helpful in managing menopausal side effects, they also have drawbacks, such as increased risk of stroke and blood clots.

If you’re looking for an alternative to hormone therapies or ways to ease your symptoms naturally and safely, luckily, there is an ingredient that can help women through this transition: Pycnogenol^®.

What is Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all) is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is made of a unique blend of natural antioxidants. Pycnogenol can be found in over 1,000 dietary supplements, cosmetics and health products worldwide because of its numerous natural health benefits.

This natural ingredient has been clinically proven to address common women’s health issues, including, but not limited to:

• Menopause
• Joint health
• Cardiovascular health
• Skin care

Backed by more than 160 clinical trials and over 450 published scientific articles, Pycnogenol^® is among the most well-researched natural ingredients available today. With four decades of studies, the evidence consistently supports its safety and efficacy across a range of health benefits, including cardiovascular function, cognitive performance and skin health.

How Pycnogenol can help women manage menopause symptoms

Because of the side effects of hormonal therapies, many women have looked for natural ways to manage menopausal symptoms. Pycnogenol has proven to be an incredibly helpful solution derived from nature that has no impact on a woman’s hormonal levels.

Numerous clinical trials involving 600 menopausal women have demonstrated the natural extract’s ability to significantly alleviate menopausal symptoms, including:

• Hot flashes
• Nightly sweats
• Menstrual problems
• Vaginal dryness
• Impaired sense of attractiveness
• Memory and concentration issues
• Anxiety
• Nervousness
• Insomnia and other sleep problems
• Mood Swings

These findings are echoed by Dr. Fred Pescatore, MD, and leading natural health physician, who explains, “For women experiencing menopause, even mild symptoms can disrupt daily life — from sleep disturbances and mood changes to persistent hot flashes. What’s encouraging is that Pycnogenol has been shown in studies to support symptom relief without affecting hormone levels. For many women looking to manage this transition with fewer risks, it offers a natural option backed by science.”

In addition to easing menopausal challenges, Pycnogenol has also been shown to support cardiovascular health and improve skin concerns such as dryness and reduced elasticity — common issues during this stage of life. To date, 27 clinical studies involving 2,210 women of all ages have demonstrated Pycnogenol’s benefits across a wide range of women’s health applications.

Your best friend during menopause

You can’t stop menopause or its symptoms, but you can safely manage this transition to the next stage in life with a little help from a natural ingredient. To learn more about how products with Pycnogenol can help you manage your menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms, visit Pycnogenol.com.

2025-04-28T09:01:00

(BPT) – With real-world courses, AI-driven support and flexible design, DeVry University’s new platform empowers learners to upskill for what’s next

The workplace is evolving fast. From AI and automation to shifting business needs, professionals today face constant pressure to adapt. Employers are seeking talent with not only technical know-how but also the agility to learn, unlearn and relearn throughout their careers.

Recognizing this shift, DeVry University launched DeVryPro, an AI-powered online learning platform built to help today’s workforce meet tomorrow’s demands. Designed for professionals and built in partnership with industry leaders, DeVryPro offers practical, self-paced courses that make lifelong learning both accessible and actionable.

“Technology is not only shaping industries, but it’s also reshaping expectations,” said Dr. Shantanu Bose, provost and chief academic officer at DeVry University. “Professionals need learning solutions that are dynamic, career-relevant and designed to help them grow with the world around them. That’s exactly what DeVryPro delivers.”

A clear demand for skill development

According to DeVry University’s 2024 report, Closing the Gap: Upskilling and Reskilling in an AI Era, many are eager to build new skills but don’t always have the tools or time to do so. The report found:

• Two-thirds of workers (67%) are open to alternative credentials to advance their careers
• 42% of employers admit they’re unsure how to train employees on AI-related skills
• Only about half of eligible employees (55%) participate in upskilling programs when offered

This growing gap between the desire to learn and access to learning has sparked renewed interest in flexible, independent, career-aligned education.

Enter DeVryPro: Designed for today’s learners

DeVryPro was created to help close the skills gap. Whether someone is looking to deepen their expertise, shift careers or keep pace with emerging technologies, DeVryPro helps them do it on their own terms.

Key features include:

AI learning coaches: Real-time assistants that offer personalized support, answer questions and prompt deeper thinking to help learners stay engaged and build confidence as they progress

Essential disciplines: Each course reflects real-world challenges and delivers skills professionals can apply immediately

Digital credentials: Learners earn a certificate of completion, including a digital badge to verify and showcase new skills

Flexible format: Courses are 100% online and self-paced, with access for a full year after enrollment

Goal-oriented paths: Progress tracking and milestone tools help learners stay motivated and focused on their goals

“We see a growing need to rethink aging learning models that prioritize institutional schedules over individual needs,” said Richard Korczyk, chief experience officer at DeVry University. “DeVryPro is designed for the pace of real life. It’s tech-forward and built to support the personal and professional growth that modern learners are seeking — without the added stress of navigating rigid timelines or competing obligations.

Built with industry, backed by insight

DeVryPro’s curriculum doesn’t just keep up — it looks ahead. Developed in collaboration with industry leaders, the platform includes courses in high-impact areas like artificial intelligence, data analytics and leadership development, with updates added regularly based on market shifts. This intentional design helps learners not only understand the material but apply it in their roles, teams and industries.

Moreover, it offers custom training solutions for organizations, allowing employers to upskill their workforce with curated programs aligned to business goals. This dual impact — on individuals and the organizations they serve — makes DeVryPro a compelling tool for workforce development in a digital-first economy.

Supporting the future of work

From business to technology, this innovative platform offers a forward-looking path to meaningful skill development. Its focus on flexibility, recognition and real-world relevance reflects the university’s broader mission: to equip learners with the tools they need to grow, contribute and lead in a changing world.

“At its core, DeVryPro is about unlocking potential,” added Korczyk. “It helps learners build not just skills but momentum.”

To explore what is possible, visit DeVryPro.

2025-04-28T08:55:00

(BPT) – Moms do so much, making such a difference for you and your family. What can you do to show your appreciation this Mother’s Day? You’ll find ideas here that are perfect for every kind of mom from Disney Books! Just let her hobbies and interests be your guide.

Best books for foodie moms

If your mom is an aspiring chef (or just loves collecting recipes she dreams of whipping up someday), you’re in luck. These books will have any food lover — and Disney fan — swooning.

Lilo & Stitch: The Official Cookbook

Moms who love a taste of the tropics can experience the flavors of Hawai’i with an extraterrestrial twist in this first-ever “Lilo & Stitch” cookbook by Native Hawaiian chef Tim Rita. She’ll discover 50 delicious recipes, including traditional Hawaiian dishes like Ahi Poke and Chicken Long Rice, plus original recipes based on foods from the film, like Hukilau Haupia Cake, Pelekai Sweet and Sour Pork and Luki’s Shave Ice. Easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful photography will inspire your mom to explore a world of new flavors and fun.

Disney Enchanted Baking

If your mom loves Disney and Pixar as much as she loves baking, she’ll adore these 33 delicious recipes for savory breads, irresistible cookies and party cakes celebrating favorite characters. She’ll create Mousse for Jack-Jack (“Incredibles 2”), Royal Wedding Cake (“The Little Mermaid”), Bananas Foster for Louis (“The Princess and the Frog”) and more, with step-by-step instructions and stunning photos of completed recipes to help ensure success … and fully display what awaits. This is also a fun way for Mom to encourage kids to join her in the kitchen!

Disney Princess Baking Gift Set

Moms who love baking with their kids will appreciate this deluxe gift set, including an exclusive rubber spatula, measuring spoons and the “Disney Princess Baking Cookbook.” The cookbook is packed with delicious recipes inspired by favorite animated heroines like Belle, Ariel, Moana and others! This charming gift set features over 60 tasty, easy-to-follow recipes inspired by Disney princesses, such as Tiana’s Famous Beignets, Jasmine’s Magic Carpet Cookies and Mulan’s Great Stone Dragon Buns.

Celebrate the newest moms in your life

For anyone with little ones, these books will become fast favorites for moms, babies and young children alike.

Disney Baby: Mom Loves Me! Sound Book

The Disney Storybook Art Team, illustrator Jerrod Maruyama and Pi Kids bring moms and their youngest family members a fun, interactive book that they’ll enjoy for years to come. Mothers and babies will cherish the pictures together as they press sound buttons to hear a kitten purr and more. This charming keepsake book also has a built-in handle so little ones can carry it along with them while they play!

Mom & Me (Disney’s Moana)

Disney Animation Studio’s “Moana” tells the story of a seafaring princess who loves exploration and adventure. In this full-color storybook based on the movie, Moana and her mother spend the day together celebrating Moana’s favorite tradition: the kite festival. The book by Kalikolehua Hurley and the Disney Storybook Art Team features an all-new story about Moana that’s perfect for kids ages 3–7.

Grandmas Are Magic

Help grandmas celebrate Mother’s Day with this picture book touting the grandmother-grandchild relationships shown in Disney and Pixar films. Author Yamile Saeid Méndez portrays the special relationship characters like Gramma Tala and her grandchild Moana have forged; Gramma’s insights and words spur the younger one to turn her fears into courage. There’s also the relationship Abuela Alma has with granddaughter Mirabel; she recognizes what makes Mirabel special. The stories showcase the amazing things grandmas do, and how they’re all magical in their own ways. With gorgeous illustrations from Minji Kim, this book is perfect for families to share on Mother’s Day.

Put the crown on your royal mom

Princesses in your family will love visiting the world of Disney royalty through these fun storybooks.

The Art of Moana 2

This stunning look behind the scenes of “Moana 2,” by Kalikolehua Hurley, celebrates the journey across the vast ocean with Moana and her crew. The book tells the story behind the art and making of the film, with beautiful development art and paintings like character designs, storyboards, color scripts and more. Plus there are exclusive interviews with those on the creative team who serve up behind-the-scenes details.

Disney: Cinderella Pop-Up Book

More than midnight is striking in this pop-up retelling of “Cinderella,” the beloved Disney classic. Your mom and any lucky child she shares it with will explore the intricately crafted scenes created by world-renowned paper engineer Matthew Reinhart, who’s also the author of the book. Readers will experience the iconic tale of Cinderella in a whole new way with this stunning pop-up book, bringing the illustrations to life like never before.

Ultimate Princess Boxed Set of 12 Little Golden Books

This beautiful collector’s edition contains 12 iconic Little Golden Books originally published over the last 75 years: Walt Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Cinderella,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Mulan,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Tangled,” “Brave,” “Frozen” and “Moana.” Moms can revisit their own childhoods and inspire kids through these magical adventures about relatable, empowered heroines who delight and inspire kids to realize their full potential.

For crafty moms

So many moms have unbelievable creative talents that make them beloved and unique. Here’s how you can show your admiration — and offer fun new crafty challenges.

The Muppets Official Crochet Amigurumi

These Amigurumi Muppets invite your mom to crochet favorite characters, from Kermit the Frog and Fozzie Bear to the Swedish Chef and Miss Piggy! After 70 years of singing, dancing and making people happy, the Muppets are getting hooked on crochet. With easy-to-follow patterns, “The Muppets Official Crochet Amigurumi” will inspire her to make these creations — and you’ll be lucky if she lets you help.

Star Wars Crochet

Your mom will feel the power of the Force as she enjoys hours of crocheting fun in the Star Wars universe. This kit offers a fun and interactive experience, with step-by-step instructions for crocheting memorable characters from the original Star Wars trilogy. The kit includes yarn, crochet hook, needle, stuffing and safety eyes to complete two projects: creating the characters Yoda and R2-D2. The instruction book includes 12 different characters, including Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia and Jabba the Hutt.

Moms who love Disney

Many moms grew up with Disney and love introducing their kids to their favorite characters and movies. These books celebrate her fascination with everything Disney.

Disneyland: Pop-Up Park Tour

Invite your mom to visit The Happiest Place on Earth with this stunningly detailed pop-up book and map of Disneyland Resort that brings the magic of Disney Parks into her home, and it’s from award-winning paper engineer Matthew Reinhart. The deluxe pop-up map is an essential keepsake for Disney fans, featuring gorgeous original illustrations in stunning, colorful detail.

Walt Disney’s Disneyland

Is your mom a Disney superfan? “Walt Disney’s Disneyland” is a treasure trove of original documentation, with Chris Nichols drawing on his extensive knowledge to reveal the fascinating tale of The Happiest Place on Earth. Walt Disney dreamed for decades about opening the ultimate entertainment venue, but it wasn’t until the early 1950s that his team began bringing his vision to life. Artists, architects and engineers transformed a dusty tract of orange groves into one of the world’s most beloved destinations — a place your mom will love reading about.

Walt Disney Treasures: Personal Art and Artifacts from The Walt Disney Family Museum

Is your mom a film buff, history buff or just fascinated by Walt Disney? This book chronicles the legacy of the legendary American artist, storyteller, filmmaker and entrepreneur through iconic objects from his remarkable life and career. Walter E.D. Miller and the staff of The Walt Disney Family Museum explore Walt’s treasured objects, from handwritten designs of EPCOT and original animation artwork to his Academy Awards^® collection — and much more.

Find all these fun gifts for your mom at Disney.com/occasion/mothers-day.

2025-04-28T15:01:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

Major depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States, impacting both adolescents and adults.¹ It can affect all aspects of life, including relationships with family, friends and community.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is depression that persists nearly daily for at least two weeks, with episodes lasting six months or even years if left untreated. While difficult life events can trigger depression, MDD has many causes, including social, psychological, biological, and environmental factors.^2,3 According to the World Health Organization, people living with MDD may experience poor concentration, excessive guilt or low self-worth, hopelessness about the future, thoughts of death or suicide, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite or weight and extreme tiredness or low energy.²

In the U.S., more than 21 million people live with MDD.

Treatment Options
There are several Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment options for people living with MDD. Treatment usually includes a combination of antidepressants and psychotherapy. Unfortunately, the current treatment options do not work for everyone. About one-third of people living with MDD do not respond to available antidepressant medications.^1,4

Many people do not see an improvement or a significant reduction in symptoms after trying two or more different medications for MDD. Approximately 86 percent of those trying a third oral antidepressant still do not achieve lasting relief from symptoms, also known as remission.⁵

New treatment options are needed for the many people living with MDD who do not respond to current treatments.

Ongoing Research
Clinical studies evaluate the safety and effectiveness of investigational therapies and can potentially lead to new treatment options for patients. There are ongoing clinical studies exploring potential treatments for MDD, including what is referred to as an adjunctive treatment that could be used together with an existing MDD treatment.

Neurocrine Biosciences is conducting a Phase 3 study to assess the efficacy and safety of investigational osavampator (formerly NBI-1065845) as an adjunctive treatment for people with MDD. The clinical study is currently enrolling adults aged 18 and older who have the primary diagnosis of recurrent MDD (moderate or severe) or persistent depressive disorder and who are currently taking oral antidepressant medications and have not responded adequately.

Maurizio Fava, M.D., Chair, Mass General Brigham Academic Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry explains, “Major depressive disorder is a condition that has a profound effect on patients and their families. The great majority of patients suffering from major depressive disorder do not achieve a sustained remission of their condition, and the options for next-step strategies to help them are quite limited. As a field, we need new augmentation strategies to enhance the efficacy of standard antidepressants.”

If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about this clinical study, please visit this website for additional information.

REFERENCES

1. Major depression. National Institute of Mental Health. Updated July 2023. Accessed January 29, 2025. https://nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
2. Depressive disorder (depression). World Health Organization. Updated March 31, 2023. Accessed January 29, 2025. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
3. Bains N, Abdijadid S. Major depressive order. In: StatPearls. NCBI Bookshelf version. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Updated April 10, 2023. Accessed January 25, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078
4. Zhdanava M, Pilon D, Ghelerter I, et al. The prevalence and national burden of treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder in the United States. J Clin Psychiatry. 2021;82(2):20m13699. doi:10.4088/JCP.20m13699
5. Sakurai H, Suzuki T, Yoshimura K, Mimura M, Uchida H. Predicting relapse with individual residual symptoms in major depressive disorder: a reanalysis of the STAR*D data. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2017;234(16):2453-2461. doi:10.1007/s00213-017-4634-5

© 2025 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CAP-NBI-US-0138 4/2025

2025-04-28T08:31:00

(BPT) – Mother’s Day is often portrayed as a day of celebration with homemade art, cards and perhaps a heartfelt attempt at breakfast in bed from younger children, but the impact of the holiday may hold more significance the older you get. At least that’s what a new study by floral delivery service Teleflora found. More than half of those interviewed admit that they didn’t fully appreciate their mom until they were an adult.

Sound familiar? It could be that a particular moment in your life suddenly made you realize how much your mother means to you — or helped you to understand better what she’s really done for you throughout your life. For those with children in their household, 45% admit that having children made them appreciate Mom and all that she does more. And while most Americans acknowledge that Mom has been there to comfort them in times of need, it’s even the most mundane everyday moments, like making their own meals (47%), that made them appreciate their mom even more as adults, according to the Teleflora survey.

Teleflora showcases just some of these moments and the unconditional love of moms in its new Mother’s Day campaign, “Never Walk Alone.” From first steps to graduation, heartbreaks to wedding celebrations, with a mother’s love, Teleflora shows that you are never truly alone, and how Mom is the constant that makes each of these moments better. The truth is nobody loves you like Mom.

How to show your appreciation for Mom

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity each year to show Mom just how much you appreciate all she has done.

Fresh flowers are a thoughtful way to deliver your love to your mom’s heart and home this Mother’s Day. Teleflora makes it easy to express your gratitude and make your mom feel loved and appreciated. You can choose a beautifully handcrafted arrangement to be delivered to her doorstep by a local florist in a charming keepsake container that Mom can enjoy for years to come, including Teleflora’s Sparkling Joy Bouquet, which features pink roses, alstroemeria, miniature carnations, and other pretty blooms in a lifestyle container that doubles as a carafe with elegant, beaded details that can be used for entertaining and to serve beverages long after the blooms have gone, adding beauty to your mom’s table year-round.

Other options include Teleflora’s Pretty Glow Bouquet, which features a stunning mix of roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums, ranging in colors from peach, fuchsia, green, purple, and pink — artfully presented in a sculpted glass vase with a purple mercury-inspired finish, or Teleflora’s Radiant Reverie Bouquet, which includes a textured, shimmering purple vase with light lavender roses, variegated purple miniature carnations, purple cushion spray chrysanthemums, white cushion spray chrysanthemums and more.

Each one of Teleflora’s best-selling Mother’s Day bouquets are unique, like Mom’s love, so you can select the best one to celebrate your mother’s personality and taste.

It’s never too late to show your appreciation for Mom and let her know how much she means to you. To learn more about Teleflora’s handmade bouquets or to place an order for a floral arrangement hand-delivered by a local florist, visit Teleflora.com.

A Note on Methodology

Nationally representative research was conducted by Kantar, a leading global data and insights company. The study was fielded between April 3-14, 2025, among 963–983 U.S. adults between the ages of 18–64 who have a relationship with their mom.

2025-04-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Taking a family vacation with a loved one on the autism spectrum offers a special opportunity to create meaningful memories together. While new environments and changes in routine can require thoughtful planning, many families find that travel can be not only manageable, but deeply rewarding and enjoyable for everyone involved.

One destination making travel more inclusive for all families is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since 2016, Visit Myrtle Beach and the communities along the region’s 60 miles of coastline have been committed to creating an autism- and sensory-friendly environment. Here’s a look at some of Visit Myrtle Beach’s newest initiatives that spread awareness of the joys of traveling for individuals with autism.

Traveling the Spectrum

A common misconception is that individuals with autism cannot travel. While it’s true that 87% of parents with children on the spectrum don’t currently take family vacations, 93% said they would be more likely to travel if autism-certified options were available, according to a survey by Autism Travel. To help challenge this assumption, Visit Myrtle Beach created a groundbreaking six-part series called “Traveling the Spectrum.”

The unscripted show follows three families with members on the autism spectrum as they take sensory-friendly vacations to the Myrtle Beach area. The series highlights the transformative power of travel and the joy of creating memories and discovering the world together. A second season is currently being filmed and season one is available to stream now on Peacock.

Splish, Splash, Squawk!

In partnership with author and illustrator Lynda Farrington Wilson and White Garment Publishing Group, Visit Myrtle Beach has published a new children’s book called Splish, Splash, Squawk! Finding Joy in a Sensory-Friendly Vacation. The book encourages families with children on the autism spectrum to discover the joy and wonder in a family vacation.

The story follows Maris the Parrot as she watches over the families vacationing in Myrtle Beach and addresses the challenges of new surroundings for neurodiverse travelers. You can order your copy on Amazon and get inspired to embrace the magic of a sensory-friendly family vacation.

Bonus: Need help finding sensory-friendly experiences during your vacation at The Beach? Visit Myrtle Beach has debuted Maris, an AI-powered travel assistant created specifically for neurodiverse families.

Maris is ready to lend a helping wing with personalized recommendations for sensory-friendly experiences, tips on accessibility and guidance for navigating the destination with ease. Maris is available to chat with you and help plan your trip on the Visit Myrtle Beach website.

Continued dedication to inclusive, sensory-friendly travel

The City of Myrtle Beach has been certified by the Champion Autism Network (CAN) as an autism-friendly destination. When you travel to this CAN-certified travel destination, you’ll find a variety of inclusive in-destination experiences to make your trip more accessible.

From the moment you land at the Myrtle Beach International Airport, your family can decompress after your flight in the airport’s Quiet Room. While you’re there, check out the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which allows travelers with hidden disabilities, including autism, to discreetly self-identify so personnel are aware that they may require additional assistance.

Where you stay during your vacation matters. You can rest easy knowing that many accommodations in Myrtle Beach offer autism-friendly environments with unique amenities for families with children and loved ones on the spectrum. From trained hotel staff to minimized wait times, you’ll find that guests are welcomed with open arms and treated like family at The Beach.

For neurodiverse folks, eating while on vacation can be stressful. However, several restaurants along the 60 miles of coastline provide a sensory-friendly dining experience. A number of sensory-friendly restaurants across the Grand Strand have made it their mission to provide unique dining experiences that cater to those with special needs.

When you’re planning dinner, don’t forget to use your Autism Travel Club Card. The card gives you access to special discounts and offers at numerous restaurants along the Grand Strand, along with thoughtfully trained staff, preferential seating and more.

Memorable experiences for all the family abound at The Beach, with events and adventures that cater to all abilities and ages. Head to Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach for a sensory-friendly mermaid show or take your kids to the Grand 14 Cinema in Market Common where they can move around freely while watching a movie.

A full list of autism-friendly attractions and events can be found here.

The Beach is for Everybody

From neurodiverse travelers to families and individuals of all abilities, the Grand Strand is a place where everybody can feel at home.

To learn more about Myrtle Beach’s autism-friendly offerings and accessible trip-planning resources, head to visitmyrtlebeach.com/autism.

2025-04-25T18:23:00

(BPT) – At just 30 years old, Gabby weighed 299 pounds and was prediabetic. Due to her weight, she experienced hip and foot pain. She struggled to walk short distances, which made it difficult to keep up with her two young children.

Gabby tried a variety of weight loss methods, without results. She also found out that because of her past health issues, she was ineligible for prescription GLP-1 medications like Wegovy^® or Zepbound^® that have been in the news so much lately.

Fast forward to today: Gabby is now down 145 pounds, and she feels happier and healthier than ever before.

How did she do it? Gabby is one of many patients to attribute her success to the LifeMD Weight Management Program and its breakthrough oral treatment option: Triple Therapy.

“Losing weight has changed my entire life,” she said. “It changed how I look. It changed how I feel. It changed everything about me.”

How LifeMD supports weight management

LifeMD is an online telehealth company that aims to make quality health care as accessible and affordable as possible. It added Triple Therapy to its treatment offerings to serve patients who may not qualify for (or want to use) a GLP-1 medication as part of their weight loss journey. Triple Therapy consists of three oral medications — metformin, bupropion (the generic version of Wellbutrin^®) and topiramate — combined in carefully selected doses to support healthy weight loss.

People on Triple Therapy start by taking three pills daily — with no needles, alcohol wipes or additional supplies needed. The treatment is generally less costly than prescription GLP-1 medication, making it an attractive option for patients on a budget.

Dr. Anthony Puopolo, President, LifeMD Affiliated P.C.s, helped develop Triple Therapy to give patients more avenues for success. He noted that GLP-1 medications are not suitable for patients with a history of pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer and/or gallstones. They also aren’t ideal for certain patients with serious GI issues, although those patients’ eligibility is decided on a case-by-case basis.

“GLP-1s are great for patients who qualify, but not everyone does,” Puopolo said. “If you need to slim down, Triple Therapy is another incredible treatment option. It provides a clear and viable path to sustainable weight management.”

How Triple Therapy makes a difference

Gabby said Triple Therapy helped her stop obsessing about food — an affliction commonly known as “food noise.” She said it also made it easier for her to practice portion control. In her first month on treatment, she lost 10 pounds without making major changes to her diet. She began adjusting her eating habits, and the weight continued to come off.

After having had several disheartening experiences with past doctors, Gabby was encouraged by the support she received from her LifeMD care team. She said that Puopolo, who was her prescribing physician, was both compassionate and communicative. She and her doctor had virtual check-ins about once a month, and Gabby would send her care team messages any time she had a question or concern.

“There were people who said I couldn’t [lose weight] and didn’t believe in me, but the people at LifeMD did,” Gabby said. “They’re willing to work for you and fight for you.”

Having that support, and Triple Therapy, made all the difference in the world for her. As more and more pounds came off, Gabby found she no longer needed to buy plus-size clothing. She began feeling more energized and light on her feet. For the first time ever, Gabby didn’t need an afternoon nap to make it through the day — and best yet, she could now keep up with her young kids.

When Gabby lost 100 pounds, she made good on a promise to herself: She started running. On Thanksgiving Day of 2024, she ran her first 5K. She now jogs about three to four times a week.

“My hips don’t hurt. My feet don’t hurt. I can move,” she said. “I went from being barely able to walk to being able to run a 5K.”

Creating a healthier future

In addition to losing 145 pounds, Gabby is no longer prediabetic, and continues to see her health improve. Now she feels more confident, and realizes that her worth is not tied to the number on the scale.

Grateful for her newfound health, Gabby is paying it forward. Since starting her weight loss journey, she has become a health coach, drawing from her personal experience to inspire others. She hopes other people will see her story and give LifeMD a try. She lets people know that if GLP-1s aren’t a viable treatment option, they may qualify for Triple Therapy.

“This is the best decision I’ve ever made,” Gabby said about joining LifeMD’s Weight Management Program. “It feels really good to lose this much weight, especially because I never thought I could.”

Learn more about LifeMD and Triple Therapy here.

Disclaimer: Results not typical. Out of a population of 150 LifeMD patients, on average, patients on Triple Therapy lost 7 pounds within the first three months of treatment.

2025-04-24T12:01:00

(BPT) – Between constant demands of work, family obligations and the millions of things on your to-do list, it’s easy to feel like you’re at or beyond capacity. The result? You may feel fatigued, disconnected — or like you just can’t keep it all together. This is where biohacking comes in: making changes to your environment, lifestyle and nutrition that directly impact how well your body — and most importantly, your brain — functions.

Here are simple, positive steps from the experts at Solaray, the #1 vitamin and mineral brand in health food stores^, to help you clear out the mental cobwebs and support your cognitive health and memory for the long haul.

Disconnect to reconnect

When you’re in the car picking up kids, waiting in a checkout line or riding an elevator, take a couple of slow, deep breaths. Deep breathing brings more oxygen to the brain, calming the mind and nervous system, which also helps reduce stress.

Replace 5-10 minutes of phone scrolling each day with an enjoyable activity that engages your brain and focuses your mind, like reading a book, playing memory games, crafting, doing a puzzle or cooking.

Reduce your sitting time. Being active is known to help improve brain function, as movement gets oxygen-carrying blood circulating throughout your body and brain. Walk the dog, dance, or practice yoga outside.

Use the power of heat and cold therapy. There’s a reason saunas and cold showers are so popular: Drastic temperature changes cause physiological responses connected to physical healing, reducing inflammation and chronic pain, plus aiding in athletic recovery. Hydrotherapy is connected to boosting your mood and relieving anxiety, and many credit cold plunges with improving creativity and mental clarity.

Feed your brain longevity-boosting foods

You’ve probably heard of “brain food,” but can it really help? Some foods have been shown to support brain health, such as berries, green leafy veggies, walnuts and fatty fish like salmon. Other foods research connects to improving brain health, cognitive function and memory include broccoli, oranges, coffee, green tea, turmeric, pumpkin seeds, eggs and dark chocolate.

Each of these foods provides various nutrients your brain needs for optimal functioning and longevity, from vitamins B, C and K and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, copper and iron, to nutrients like choline, lutein, folate, beta carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, caffeine, anthocyanins and other antioxidants.

Leverage smart supplementation

Consider an innovative new herbal supplement that can help support your memory and cognitive function. SharpMind Memory™ from Solaray contains 600 milligrams of Cognivia^®, a unique sage blend observed to support several critical aspects of memory.*

The supplement is an expert mushroom and herbal blend crafted to support cognitive health at every age, including your working memory and overall cognitive function.* Its proprietary mix of garden sage leaf extract and Spanish sage essential oil has been clinically studied for several aspects of memory and is an award-winning ingredient.*†

It also includes two potent adaptogens — 100 milligrams of gotu kola and 50 milligrams of fermented organic, U.S.-grown chaga mushroom — for additional support. The fermentation process aids in nutrient absorption, while chaga grown on gluten-free organic oats is high in beneficial beta-glucans. SharpMind Memory offers fast-acting, powerful cognitive support in just two convenient capsules per day.*

“The right nootropic supplements can help maintain balance between the activation and relaxation of our nervous system,” said Max Willis, chief innovation officer for Solaray. “Solaray’s trusted SharpMind Memory nootropic formula is anchored by science-backed Cognivia^®, which is well-studied for supporting working memory, recall and retention. We’re thrilled it was named the best ‘supplement for the mind’ in the 2025 NEXTY Awards.”

Try a “brain dump”

Let it all out by trying a “brain dump” to capture all the to-dos taking space in your mind. On paper or using voice recording on your phone, list items that need to get done in the next few days. One advantage of doing this at night is that it can help you relax and get to sleep more easily, without those items buzzing through your mind. Getting a good night’s sleep can also help bolster your cognitive health and memory.

Invest in wearable technology

Use a wearable health tracker to monitor your heart rate, physical activity, sleep and other vital signs, which can help you make proactive decisions about your lifestyle and activities. They may give you actionable insights that encourage you to try new approaches to your health and well-being.

You may also want to try a smartwatch that can help you stay calm throughout your busy day. They can remind you to stand up and go on a quick walk, take a deep breath for a meditation moment to give you a mental health pause and slow your nervous system down.

Using these tips can help you start feeling like you have more mental storage. By bolstering your memory and brain health, you’ll be able to make the most of every day, for many years to come.

Find SharpMind Memory and other supplements to help support your well-being at Solaray.com.

^ SPINS Brand Share, NPI Vitamins & Minerals, wk end 2/23/2025

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

†Cognivia^® is a registered trademark of Nexira; it was a NIE New Ingredient Awards winner in 2021 and has been a finalist in the Nutra Ingredients Awards.

2025-04-24T09:41:00

(BPT) – Insects and snails are a critical part of the planet’s ecosystem. Bees, for example, pollinate important crops and provide high-quality food like honey, while snails feed on dead or rotting organic matter in the soil to speed up recycling of plant nutrients. This makes collecting and studying these fascinating creatures a rewarding hobby. But for U.S. agriculture and the environment, live insect and snail collection is serious business.

Certain insects and snails, from beetles to moths and flies, are not native to the U.S. and pose serious risks to our nation’s agriculture, ecosystems and public health if they escape into the wild. To protect our natural treasures from invasive species and comply with federal and state laws, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines when collecting and caring for these animals.

Harmless pets or damaging invasive species?

Invasive insects and snails can cause devastating economic and environmental damage. Without their natural predators and diseases, these species can multiply quickly, outcompeting native species and destroying crops or habitats.

The giant African snail is a favorite in the pet trade and a damaging invasive species capable of destroying over 500 types of plants and vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumbers, fruit and beans. It reproduces prolifically and can even eat tree bark, ornamental plants, as well as the stucco off your walls! Perhaps most alarming is that the giant African snail can carry parasites harmful to humans and animals. That’s why it is illegal to own, sell or import them into the U.S.

Similarly, collecting or owning the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) — or other invasive beetles — is illegal in the United States. ALB feeds on and kills maple and other hardwood trees, which cannot recover from the damage. As a live insect, this species will never be legal to keep for education purposes, or even as a pet. However, there are safe and legal ways to collect certain native insects and snails in the U.S.

Tips for collecting insects and snails

• Do your research: Consult with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to learn which species require a permit and which are banned from the U.S. because of their potential to do harm. Many states also have restrictions on certain species, so check with your state’s Department of Agriculture before acquiring these pets.

• Work with reputable vendors: Only purchase insects and snails from sellers who have a PPQ 526 Plant Pest Permit from APHIS. It’s illegal to move or import live snails or insects across state lines without the 526 permit. Even if a seller says the species is legal, it’s the buyer’s responsibility to know.

• Remember: By sourcing an insect and snail collection responsibly, anyone can both enjoy an interesting hobby and help to protect America’s food sources and landscape.

Safeguard the environment and ecosystems

It’s important to not only consider how you collect live insects and snails, but also to carefully manage how you dispose of them. Never release live insects or snails into the wild — it’s both illegal and harmful to the environment.

If for any reason you cannot keep your collection and need to relocate or euthanize your collection of live insects or snails, there are safe methods. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, please call your local plant health contacts to transfer them to Federal agricultural officials.

For additional guidance on purchasing and caring for live insects and snails, call the USDA at (866) 524-5421 or contact Pest.Permits@usda.gov. For more information on invasive species and how to prevent their spread, visit HungryPests.com.

This article is brought to you by USDA.