BLOG 565 HEAD LICE

BLOG 565 HEAD LICE

Tiny little insects can wreak havoc on our scalps, making our head feel itchy and uncomfortable. Children fall victim more to contracting lice, mainly because lice spread directly from one person’s head to another, 0and children are in closer contact to one another in their school and activity environments. Lice are only about the size of a strawberry seed and can have a tan/gray coloring. Females attach their eggs to the scalp and the eggs will hatch in about 6 to 9 days. In 9 to 12 days the lice become mature and c0an live can live for 3 to 4 weeks. The problem is that females can lay up to 10 eggs at a time. Lice become invasive and must be treated immediately to prevent spreading.

Lice do not carry viral or bacterial diseases. It’s the scratching on the head, neck and shoulders that can cause infection.  Sometimes they can be hard to spot.  Lice avoid light but you can spot the eggs (nits). If lice are suspected, it’s important to seek medical attention before starting treatment. Lice can be mistaken for dandruff or residue from hair products used. A doctor will use a magnifying lens to inspect and/or a tool called a Wood’s light to check for eggs (nits).  The light makes the lice show up as a pale blue color. A doctor will recommend using a shampoo that has permethrin (nix) that is toxic to lie. This can be followed by using a lotion to the scalp that contains ivermectin (Sklice). It needs to be rinsed out of dry hair after sitting for 10 minutes. A doctor can also prescribe an oral drug called Ivermectin (Stromectol). A topical prescription called Malathion is also an option as well as Spinosad (Natroba). Body lice is also possible so after shower applying these measures to the body can be taken as well. 

Lice can also be spread indirectly through items such as combs and brushes, pillows, towels, scarves, and hats. It’s important to wash all of these items regardless of if lice are detected on them to decrease the risk of spreading. Sometimes pets can spread lice too, but they cannot survive 0on these animals. We don’t always know when and where lice will strike, and it isn’t a matter of personal hygiene. It’s always a good idea to not share personal items when unnecessary. Children are taught to share so sometimes the lesson can be confusing for young ages. However, always being aware of washing hands, clothes, and not sharing specific items, are good lessons to be learned.

 

 

 

BLOG 564 BACON

BLOG 564 BACON

Bacon is the type of food many of us have a love-hate relationship, knowing the good and bad of eating it. Bacon most popularly comes from pork, but it can be from turkey as well. It is a highly processed meat that undergoes a curing process to achieve the final crunchy, salty, taste that is so well liked.

The curing process involves soaking the meat in nitrates, salt, and sugar. Often, the meat is soaked after it is cured. Because of this process, bacon has a long shelf life and keeps its red color.

The trouble with bacon is that it tastes so good, but from a nutritional and health standpoint, there are some downsides to consider. Bacon is very, very high in salt. Eating an excess amount of salt increases the chances for stomach cancers and high blood pressure. Because bacon is so highly processed, it contains a high number of nitrates and nitrites. When these additives are cooked at high temperatures, they form nitrosamines, which are carcinogens. Eating processed meat has been associated with breast, lung, color and liver cancers.  Some manufacturers do try to lower the number of carcinogens that form by adding erythorbic acid and vitamin C. Bacon is also very high in fat.  The fat in bacon is 50% monounsaturated, 40% saturated, and 10% polyunsaturated. This fat has a lot of cholesterol in it too. Research is debatable in terms of the relationship between high saturated fat and cholesterol causing an increased risk for heart disease. High fat does affect weight management.

Bacon isn’t all bad. In fact, a 3.5 ounce serving of bacon has 37 grams of protein. It contains B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12. Bacon has 53% of the RDA for phosphorus and 89% of the RDA for selenium. It also has iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Different approaches to dieting encourage high fat diets and bacon is a popular option to eat. Keto and carnivore type eating include bacon on their lists of acceptable foods to eat for weight management.

Bacon is a food that is hard to resist, easy to make, add flavor to recipes, and satisfies a wide audience. Being aware of the overall sodium and fat intake we consume each day is important, especially when incorporating foods such as bacon into meals. Turkey bacon would be the healthy alternative. Be aware of all processed meats, read labels, and always thoroughly cook raw meats. Eating bacon in moderation and sticking to portion sizes is the general recommendation for this popular love-hate type of food.

 

 

BLOG 563 KIMCHI

BLOG 563 KIMCHI

One of the most well-known Korean dishes is called kimchi. It is fermented cabbage that originated from the concept that not all vegetables are available and fresh year-round. Some kimchi recipes contain other vegetables as well including cucumber, carrot, radish, beets, spinach, celery, and/or bamboo shoots. It might be seasoned with garlic, onions, ginger, chili peppers, sugar, and/or salt. Besides being a tasty part of many Korean dishes, kimchi also has healthy benefits.

One cup of kimchi only has about 25 calories, 2 carbs, and less than 2 grams of fat. There are also 2 grams of fiber in this serving, vitamin K, folate, iron, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin c B12, and vitamin C. The process of fermentation also helps the body absorb these vitamins and minerals better. Because it is low in calories it can be good food to support weight management.

Kimich is unique because it undergoes lacto-fermentation. The sugar/starch is converted into alcohol using bacteria, yeast, and/or mold. This is what creates sour taste and creates the environment for its health benefits. Probiotics formulate in this environment that are microorganisms with a multitude of positive effects. The probiotics in kimchi can help with constipation, mental health, heart health, skin condition, reduce the risk for certain cancers, and keep the common cold away. These healthy probiotics can help prevent yeast infections.

There are many other benefits kimchi has to offer. The good bacterium in kimchi called Lactobacillus bacterium, can boost immunity. Research has shown it can help slow the ageing process because it reduces inflammation. A specific compound in kimchi called HDMPPA, is what suppresses inflammation.

Some foods that are suggested to pair well with kimchi when being served are Korean dumplings, shrimp fried rice, short ribs, Korean pork, chicken wings, and avocado toast. Kimchi is easy to make at home. Kimchi doesn’t have many downfalls other than its sour taste some many do not prefer. Nutrition doesn’t need to be complicated and sometimes incorporating foods from other cultures can add variety and alternatives to support a healthy lifestyle.

BLOG 562 WHO IS EXERCISING

BLOG 562 WHO IS EXERCISING

Despite the growing awareness of health and wellness, millions of Americans still struggle to incorporate regular physical activity into their lives. According to recent data, only 23% of U.S. adults meet the recommended guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities each week. That means more than ¾ of adults don’t meet the national standards. That means only one in five adults exercise daily.

Among children, the numbers are very concerning. Over 75% of U.S. kids are active for less than the recommended 60 minutes per day. Research consistently shows that children of active parents are more likely to adopt exercise habits themselves.

There are several reasons why Americans skip regular workouts:

1. Time constraints: Busy schedules and long work hours leave little room for fitness.
2. Cost barriers: Gym memberships and fitness classes can be expensive. Nearly one-third of adults say affordability is an obstacle.
3. Lack of motivation or knowledge: Some people don’t know where to start or struggle to stay motivated.
4. Health limitations: Chronic conditions, injuries, or age-related issues can make exercise difficult.
5. Environmental factors: Unsafe neighborhoods, lack of parks, or poor weather can discourage outdoor activity.

Exercise isn’t just about looking good. Here’s why it matters:

1. Physical health: Regular activity reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers.
2. Mental health: Exercise boosts mood, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep.
3. Longevity: Active individuals tend to live longer and enjoy better quality of life.
4. Cognitive benefits: Physical activity improves memory, focus, and brain function.
5. Social connection: Group workouts and sports foster community and reduce isolation.

There are many people who make fitness a priority. 53.3% of adults meet aerobic activity guidelines. 96 million adults (60% of those setting New Year’s goals) plan to focus on health and fitness in 2026. 86.3 million adults use fitness apps. Walking tops the list as the most accessible and widely practiced form of exercise. Whether it’s a daily walk, a yoga class, or a home workout, every step counts. And if you’re a parent, remember that your habits today can shape your child’s tomorrow. Movement is medicine that is naturally beneficial in so many ways.

BLOG 561 BROWN vs WHITE RICE

BLOG 561 BROWN vs WHITE RICE

Rice is a popular grain that is a staple of many people’s diets, especially those in Asia. White rice is the more widely consumed type; however, many have turned to brown rice as the healthier option. There are certainly differences between these two types of rice. Both are mostly composed of carbohydrates, with little protein and little fat. Brown rice has about 30 less calories per serving than white rice, but this small caloric difference is marked by other factors that differentiate which rice becomes the healthier choice.

BROWN RICE

Brown rice is a whole grain. This means that it still has all its grains (fibrous bran, nutritious germ, and endosperm). It also contains vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and fiber. For example, 100 grams of brown rice contains 1.8 grams of fiber. It also contains high amounts of magnesium. Both nutrients help control blood sugar. It also contains a plant compound called lignan which helps protect against heart disease. Lignans lower blood pressure, reduce the amount of fat in the blood, and decrease inflammation. Brown rice does contain phytic acid, which is known for impeding the body’s ability to absorb other nutrients including iron and zinc. Phytic acid is known as the “antinutrient”. Brown rice also contains arsenic, which is a toxic heavy metal. Arsenic is associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

WHITE RICE

The bran and germ are removed from white rice, making it no longer a whole grain. Bran and germ are the most nutritious part of a grain. White rice is also associated with empty calories due to its lack of nutrients. Unlike most grains, this rice lacks fiber (100 grams =  0.4 grams of fiber). Eating large amounts of white rice has been associated with an increased risk for diabetes. It is high on the glycemic (GI) index, so it does quickly increase blood sugar. On the GI index, brown rice is 50 whereas white rice is 89.

Sticking to ½ cup which is one serving of rice is no easy feat for rice consumers. It just pairs so well with well….everything. When it comes to which type of rice is better for their health, all taste opinions aside, brown rice is the winner. In fact, there wasn’t much to say about white rice because it is just an empty carbohydrate. There’s always a catch, right? The more informed you are the better choices and tools you have to make for your health. Feeling full when we eat should be from foods that are nutritionally packed and beneficial to our bodies, versus just filling ourselves up for pleasure and to suppress hunger.

BLOG 560 SANTA CLAUS

BLOG 560 SANTA CLAUS

Every December, the same familiar figure appears in lights, movies, songs, and shop windows around the world. He is known as a jolly man in a red suit, with a white beard, a big laugh, and an endless supply of gifts. But Santa Claus didn’t appear out of nowhere. His history is a mix of legend, culture, and a little bit of magic

Santa’s origins can be traced back more than 1,600 years to a real person named Saint Nicholas. He was a Christian bishop who lived in what is now Turkey. Saint Nicholas was known for his kindness, especially toward the poor and children. Stories tell of him secretly giving gifts to help families in need.

One famous legend describes him tossing bags of gold down a chimney, which landed in stockings. That story alone planted the seeds for many of today’s Christmas traditions. As cultures mixed and traditions traveled, Saint Nicholas evolved. In the Netherlands, he became Sinterklaas, a gift-bringer who arrived each winter. When Dutch settlers came to America, they brought Sinterklaas with them and over time, the name transformed into “Santa Claus.”

In the 19th century, writers and artists helped shape Santa into the figure we recognize today. Later illustrations dressed him in a red suit, gave him a round belly, and sealed his image as the friendly, magical grandfather of Christmas. Santa’s popularity isn’t just about presents. He represents something much deeper.

He stands for generosity. Santa gives without expecting anything in return. He brings people together. Families gather, traditions are shared, and communities feel a little closer during the holidays. For adults, he’s a reminder of childhood joy, imagination, and hope.

At his heart, Santa Claus is an idea: that kindness matters, that giving feels good, and that believing in something joyful can make life brighter. Whether you see him as a magical visitor from the North Pole, a symbol of the season, or a tradition passed down through generations, Santa continues to remind us of the best parts of being human. And that’s why, year after year, the world still leaves out cookies, hangs stockings, and believes.

BLOG 559 DRINKING WATER

BLOG 559 DRINKING WATER

We all too often hear that we need to drink more water. Staying well hydrated is beneficial for every cell in our body, good for our brain, and is necessary for our body to function efficiently. We have the choice of so many beverages that opting for plain water isn’t always appealing. There are 9 types of water we can drink, so maybe knowing the choices can steer us towards this liquid if there’s a particular type we might like.

1.      Purified water – This is considered safe water because it is water that has been treated so that anything harmful in it like bacteria, parasites, and fungi are removed. However, in this removal process, some of the beneficial substances are also removed. Fluoride would be an example that is removed which helps with tooth decay. Most people prefer purified water, while others consider it the more expensive option.

2.      Tap water – This is the water that is all around us. From our kitchen sink water to the water that flushes the toilet, tap water is everywhere. Most tap water in the U.S. is safe to drink although some people refuse to drink it. It is good for you and cheaper.

3.      Mineral water – This type is full of minerals, specifically calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. Your body doesn’t make these so they’re good to have and they help with digestion. Many people love the taste but don’t prefer the cost of it.

4.      Sparkling water – This water is infused with carbon dioxide gas. Sometimes it is carbonated water or soda water. It gives a fizzy feeling without the sugar and sweeteners. Many brands mineralize the water which is beneficial. This type can be more expensive.

5.      Spring/glacier water – It is mostly clean and toxin free. It can be found in stores, but some types are not tested or filtered. It can also be more expensive depending on the brand.

6.      Alkaline water - It has alkaline minerals and negative oxidation reduction potential (ORP). It has a higher pH than tap water. There is little proof, but some believe that alkaline water can neutralize the acid in your body. However, it can also reduce stomach acidity which then lowers the ability of the stomach lining to kill bad bacteria.

7.      Distilled water – This is water that has been boiled. It is condensed back to liquid. It is more used in cars, aquariums, and for steam ironing. It is drinkable too.

8.      Well water – This comes from the ground so although it may be available even in your own back yard, it might not be safe to drink. It is likely contaminated for drinking purposes.

9.      Flavored water – This is flavored with sugar and/or artificial sweeteners as well as natural and/or artificial flavorings. It gives flavor to your water which tastes good, but it’s not good for maintaining a healthy weight or diabetes.

We need to drink water all day, every day. For some, this is easy but for others water isn’t their beverage of choice. The benefits of water for our body and mind are critical. Water refreshes our quench and every all the muscles, joints, and cells we have. Make a toast to drink water for our health and happiness, inside and out.