Corporate Wellness Watch
Know Your Fats
Trans, omega-3, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated...the list goes on! What does it all mean? Which ones are we supposed to eat and which are bad? Luckily the Mayo Clinic can tell us. Read "Dietary Fats: Know which types to choose," and get the scoop on some of your favorite foods.
Healthy Homes
Our homes are full of new gadgets that are supposed to last longer and perform better than their predecessors. But are they all safe? Make your home a safe, healthy environment by following some easy steps from Parenting.com.
Salmonella Updates
With the recent national outbreak of Salmonella poisoning, it is confusing to know which vegetables are safe to eat. The CDC has provided an updated listing of Salmonella outbreaks, tips for handling food, and advice to consumers. Click the Salmonella FAQ link for answers to all of your questions.
National Immunization Month
Are you and your family up to date on your shots? With the beginning of school approaching, now is a good time to check your records. August is National Immunization Awareness Month and MedicineNet.com has provided information on the latest vaccines and when you should get them. Click on the links for schedule information and frequently asked questions.
Sun Safety Week
Summer vacation begins in a few weeks, and soon you and your children will be outside enjoying the sun and warm weather. June 1-7 is Sun Safety Week and the Sun Safety Alliance is providing tips on skincare, sunscreens, and even your hometown's daily UV index. Read "The Facts about Getting Too Much Sun" and find your UV index on the right-hand side of the page.
Men's Health Week
Asking the doctor personal questions can be an awkward situation. While it affects all of us, many men find it particularly difficult asking questions about their own bodies that they may consider embarrassing or taboo. June 9-15 is Men's Health Week and the Men's Health Network has an online copy of the Blueprint for Men's Health, which covers everything from addiction to sexual health.
Father's Day
Speaking of men, Father's Day is coming up on the 3rd Sunday of June. Ehow.com is back with ideas on how to celebrate your father on his special day. Check out the last minute gift and activities page for the guy who might be hard to please…or who doesn’t wear ties.
Slimming Dessert?
Along with the nice weather come barbecues, swimming pools — and the dreaded ice cream truck. Although you may burn some calories sprinting down the street trying to catch up to it, those tasty treats are calorie-packed. Try out some chilly desserts that have more nutritional value than the run of the mill Popsicle. Eating Well's Berry Frozen Yogurt is low-calorie and low-fat – and full of antioxidants!
Wellness Web Resources Archives
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Mental Health America is providing materials on dealing with stress, getting connected to friends and family, and much more. Read "Depression: Know the Signs" and more on the Mental Health Month page. Click on the "Get Connected" icon on the MHA home page for more mental health information.
Mother's Day Ideas
Mother's Day is around the corner- do you know how you're going to celebrate? From making gifts, buying flowers, or spending the day with a stepmother, eHow.com provides lots of ideas for what to do on Mom's special day.
Planning a Summer Vacation?
While the weather at home is getting nicer by the day, you and your family may still be itching to escape from work and chores. Forbes.com has listed many tips and precautions for the international traveler. Check out the picture slideshow and see what you can do to keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy on vacation.
Memorial Day Barbecue Recipes
Although summer technically begins on June 20th this year, Memorial Day is a holiday many consider to be the start of their favorite season. Parades, cookouts and long weekends are great ways to get together with family and friends to celebrate American heroes. Try out some of these healthy recipes for a Memorial Day Barbecue, courtesy of Cooking Light.
Autism Awareness Month
April is Autism Awareness Month and the CDC is providing signs of autism and other developmental disabilities for parents to look out for during the early years of childhood. Check out "Learn the signs, Act Early" chart for more information on basic signs of child development and more.
Celebrate Earth Day
April 22nd is Earth Day and while you may not live near the festivities, you can try some of these Earth Day Recipes with your kids which promote healthy and organic nutrition. Read the recipes and more on how to help the environment with the Earth Day Guide, courtesy of Kaboose.
Feeling stressed out?
Are you fatigued, irritable, noticing weight change, or all of the above? April is Stress Awareness Month and the Mayo Clinic is providing many tools to check your stress levels. Read about work related stress, stress symptoms and browse other topics in the Stress Blog.
Colds vs. Allergies
Now that spring has arrived, sunny days and jacket-free weather will be returning. Will your runny nose and watery eyes return as well? Check out the symptoms chart provided by MedicineNet.com and see if you need some rest and orange juice or a trip to the doctor.
Could You Be at Risk for Heart Disease?
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in the United States. Do you have any risk factors? Be proactive during American Heart Month and take a quiz to assess your risk for heart disease provided by the American Heart Association.
Heart Healthy Cooking
Stock up on heart-healthy groceries and try some new recipes that are tasty and good for you! Brought to you from the American Heart Association, Delicious Decisions suggests foods that are not only safe for CVD patients, but anyone looking to start their year off right with more healthful food choices. Read the other tabs for tips on dining out and maintaining a permanently healthy lifestyle.
Is It a Cold or the Flu?
Fever, runny nose, coughing and fatigue can sound like a common cold, but oftentimes turn out to be the flu. Mayo Clinic has a helpful tool to help you figure out what may be ailing you. While this is not a true diagnosis, it may help you decide on whether you need a trip to the doctor's office.
Winter Skin Care Tips
Dry skin can be an itchy and painful condition that many of us suffer from, especially in the cold winter months. Now that the winter season is finally underway, prepare yourself for harsh conditions by following some of these tips from EczemaNet- they are especially helpful for the outdoor runners and cyclists!
It's a new year, and with it, many of us want to make healthy commitments to start the year off on a good foot. Below are some commitments you or someone you know may be considering. When making a life change, it's important to have support so be sure to share this information with people that will help you through the behavior change process.
Take Control of Your Health in 2008.
Take the lead. Not only do you need a primary care physician and receive regular check ups, you have to be able to communicate with your healthcare team about your care. The Mayo Clinic provides tools for self-care, education on diseases and conditions, and how to live a healthier life. These tools will prepare you for that conversation with your physician and help you take control of your health.
Are You Ready to Quit?
Quitting smoking is not an easy task. You have to be ready and for the millions of people that have quit, many tried multiple times. If you're looking for help quitting, check out the American Lung Association's, Freedom from Smoking program. This FREE, online program will help you determine your readiness to quit and provide you with tools and techniques based on your smoking habit to support you through your behavior change.
It's as Easy as 4..5..6
Studies show that most of us don't get enough fruits and vegetables each day. If you're not sure of how much you should be eating or need ideas on including more fruit and veggies in your daily intake, the Produce for Better Health Foundation can answer your questions at the Fruits & Veggies - More Matters health initiative. You can find cooking advice, nutrition information, and shopping and storage tips.
A Healthy Home
Have you checked your fire detectors lately? Safety at home is another way to take control of your health. The Home Safety Council is a great source for home safety tips, information about home fire safety, falls prevention, poison prevention, water safety, child safety, and disaster preparedness.
To Your Health
Welcome to the holiday season full of family, friends, fun and oh yes food! Enjoy the holiday treats without putting on added pounds by eating balanced meals in moderation. Balance your calorie consumption with calorie expenditure and you will be able to maintain your pre-holiday weight with ease. Give yourself the gift of a healthy holiday with these tips from the cdc.gov.
It's a Festive Season!
Decorations abound during the holiday season and add to the festiveness of our homes. Lights, candles, greenery, ribbons and bows appear everywhere and are in easy reach for our four legged friends. Keep your pet safe during the holidays with these tips from vetmed.
Table Treasures
Looking for a different twist to your holiday menu? Why not try some healthy holiday recipe suggestions from betterrecipes.com. Start with the appetizers and scroll your way through to desert for some tasty new ideas.
Shopping in Cyberspace
Shopping on the web has become one of the preferred forms of purchasing almost anything we need, especially around the holidays. No lines, no waiting, no crowds...who could ask for anything better! Surf safely and protect your personal information when shopping online with tips from the Better Business Bureau and make your online shopping experience a positive one.
Eat without the Meat
Individuals who prefer a vegetarian diet as opposed to the traditional diet are growing in number. Now there are valuable resources available on how make menu selections easier, how to pack or purchase a vegetarian lunch at work or school and the best way to get special dietary or nutrient requirements in your meal selections. Check out “The Vegetarian Resource Group” for information on these topics and much more.
Bag or Buy It
Lunch that is. School is back in session and with it comes the challenge of providing your child with a healthy school lunch. Although a lunch made from home tends to be more nutritious, buying lunch at school is a right of passage that most students enjoy. Take some tips from KidsHealth to encourage healthier lunch choices for your child both in the bag and on the tray.
Ready, Set…Organize!
Goodbye Summer, hello Fall. Here comes school season, hectic work schedules and busy event calendars. Don’t let the influx of papers, meetings, school and social events drive you over the edge. Organizedhome.com has ways to simplify your life with organizational tips for the whole family so you can enjoy the months ahead instead of panicking over them.
Grains…which to choose?
Whole grain products have become the leaders on the list of “have to have” in the new food pyramid. Reading food labels to find the whole grain content can be a challenge, even the most knowledgeable nutritionist. One way to quickly find foods with whole grain options is to look for the Whole Grain Stamp. To help make your search a little easier The Whole Grains Council has put together a list of manufacturer’s products from breads and cereals to granola bars, pizza, crackers, baking products and more that contain these healthful grains.
Protect Yourself
August is National Immunization Awareness Month. Whether your child is starting pre-school, or entering into college this comprehensive web page breaks down the necessary immunizations that they will require, tells you how to make-up for missed vaccines and provides a schedule for future injections. Adult vaccination information is also given for those who wish to maintain good health or who travel abroad.
Pet Portfolio
Man's best friend, the family pet. Most pet owners see their animals as an extension of their families. Make sure they stay healthy with these tips on good pet care from the ASPCA. On their site you will find everything from heat safety, to traveling with your pet, basic nutrition and immunization needs and how to find a good veterinarian. You can even get a free pet safety pack.
Oh Those "Pearly Whites!"
Your smile says a lot about you, but did you know your dental health can say a lot about your overall physical health and well-being? Brush-up on your oral and dental healthcare with these tips for the whole family from mayoclinic.com and keep your "pearly whites" in check.
"Should I or Shouldn’t I?"
At some point in time most of us wonder if taking vitamins, minerals or other supplements are necessary additions to a good diet or just a sales pitch from the manufacturers. Soluble vs. non-soluble, natural vs. manufactured, the questions are endless. Get the facts about these products to know what they consist of, their side effects, and whether or not they are a necessary contribution to your good health or a detriment to your well-being. If they are a positive addition learn how to get them naturally in the foods you eat.
Cooking Fresh
Local farmers markets as well as backyard gardens are fabulous places to get the freshest vegetables and fruits of the summer season. Cook up these tasteful picks with these wonderful recipe selections from allrecipes.com designed specifically for fresh picked produce.
Smart First Aid
Daily outdoor activities bring with them an occasional bruise, blister, cut or scrape, especially in the summer. Be prepared to treat these ailments properly so infections don’t set in with this first-aid advice from emedicinehealth.com.
Water, Wilderness and More
Boating, fishing, camping, biking, mountain climbing…the list goes on for ways to have fun in the sun. Being safe while enjoying your favorite activity should be first-and-foremost on your "to-do" list. To ensure that a safe time is had by all, read over these safety tips from the National Technical Information Service.
"What Just Bit Me?"
The greatest risks that arise from insect bites are infections and allergic reactions, both can be dangerous if left untreated. Kidshealth.org has compiled a list of the most common types of bites and stings; what they look like and how to treat them, so you can keep bug bites at bay.
Getting a Glow
It's here, the onset of summer. Cabin fever has given way to the outdoor arena and everyone is eager to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. Remember to pay attention to how much sun you are getting to avoid its adverse effects. June 3 -9 is National Sun Safety Week. Start the season off right with this basic sun advice from the Sun Safety Alliance.
Ready, Set, Grill!
Man’s best friend…the outdoor grill! Charcoal or gas, either will do. Grilled food is flavorful and fun, especially when shared with others. Before the season kicks into gear make sure your equipment is in top operating condition and review these food safety guidelines to ensure the best barbeques ever!
It’s All About Men
In honor of Men’s Health Week and Father’s Day, the Men’s Health Network has put together a comprehensive list of screenings that are important for men to have to ensure good health and well-being at every age. As a bonus they have included a checklist for women as well. Take a moment to read through and see if your screenings are up-to-date so that every Father’s Day is a healthy one!
"Baby It's Hot Outside!"
Seasoned athletes, "weekend warriors" even those of us who like to lounge in the warm weather can be at risk for a heat-related illness without even realizing it. Know how to detect the symptoms of these illnesses and prevent them before they get the better of you with these tips from meritcare.com. Learn how your body’s natural cooling system works to help regulate heat intake as well when turning up the heat.
Flavorful Colors
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, the amount of daily consumption necessary for a healthy body depends upon several factors. Check out the CDC’s website to see what your daily intake should be. You’ll also find helpful tips on what constitutes a portion, how to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meals, and get great recipe ideas. The growing season is upon us, take advantage of the locally grown produce in area farmer’s markets for the freshest choices.
“Ride Sally, Ride!”
Bicycling is a great form of exercise, not to mention transportation when the weather allows. Getting the most out of your cycling can depend upon how well you master proper pedaling techniques. This can not only save you energy, but can make your ride more productive and enjoyable. Learn the proper way to align yourself with your cycle for maximum riding potential from the specialists at bicycling.com.
Give it Your Best Shot
National Employee Health and Fitness Day is May 16th. In honor of this day we challenge all of you to participate in a healthy form of exercise for the month of May. Exercise can be in many forms, not just the obvious sporting activities or health club venues. Take a look at some practical ways to get the suggested 30 minutes per day as well as simple athletic activities from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (nhlbi).
Garden Glow
Beautiful flower and bountiful vegetable gardens are uplifting signs of spring and summer. Just viewing a well landscaped garden can release stress and tension. Cultivating the perfect garden is a sign of accomplishment. Developing a garden is different for everyone, and growing success depends upon a multitude of variables. To find the perfect plant, seed or flora log into the professionals at mainstreetseedandsupply.com and watch your garden grow.
"DASH" Into Shape
Consider this: A diet that has been medically proven by the National Institutes of Health, as being an effective way to help decrease hypertension and lower blood pressure. The "DASH" (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet does exactly this as it reduces the amount of sodium consumption as part of the plan. Learn about this eating plan and how you can get started by logging into the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institutes website.
Play it Safe!
The onset of spring has brought with it the urge to be outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, especially for children. As parents it’s important to know that the playground equipment and surroundings are safe for our children to venture onto and into. It’s also important to check over backyard swing sets and outdoor toys to make sure they are in good working order. Kidshealth.org has put together a comprehensive list of safety guidelines for parents to check over before the outdoor playing season gets into full swing.
Sniffle, Sneeze or both?
Plants and trees will soon be blooming, but not before the mold and mildew depart or return depending upon where you live. Airborne allergy triggers become a menace during the spring season and complicate symptoms for everyone, especially those who suffer from asthma as well. Understand the signs and symptoms of allergic diseases with these simple guidelines from Medicinenet.com so that treatment can be hassle free.
Disinfect, Deodorize and Organize!
It’s time to open up the windows and let the fresh air in. The trick is to actually be able to “see” out the windows after winter’s wrath. Cleaning for the change of seasons; however liberating, is a task that very few of us actually look forward to. The specialists at OrganizedHome.com have put together a "Spring Cleaning Chore Checklist" for inside as well as outside your home which highlights the key tasks to accomplish, making your cleaning experience more manageable.
