Author: StatePoint

Despite one’s best intentions to send kids to school with a healthy homemade lunch, a lot can happen between the time you pack it up at home and when your child unpacks it in the cafeteria. But no one wants a soggy sandwich or warm milk for lunch. And not only are some lunch time woes unappetizing, they can pose health risks. Perishable food transported without a cooling source won’t stay safe for long. Indeed, harmful bacteria multiply rapidly after only two hours in the “danger zone,” the temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees F, according to the USDA. Here…

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Getting all the nutrients you need each day to function or even thrive can be a challenge. After all, there are only so many meals in a day. Here are some creative ways to pack the necessary nutrients into your day, without going over your tight calorie budget. Make Each Bite Count It’s tempting to sneak in “empty calories,” with foods and beverages that have little in the way of nutritional value. Don’t give in to sugary treats or easy fixes. You will ultimately feel more satisfied by foods that work to fuel your body. Plan meals ahead to ensure…

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Families spent less out-of-pocket for college in academic year 2015-16 compared to last year, as they took advantage of more scholarships and grants to foot the bill, according to “How America Pays for College 2016,” the national study from Sallie Mae, the country’s largest private student lender, and Ipsos, a global independent market research company. Scholarships and grants covered 34 percent of college costs, according to the report, the largest percentage of any resource over the last five years. Approximately, half of families used a scholarship or grant to help pay for college. “Families wrote smaller checks for college this…

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Caring for a baby or toddler is not easy, but today’s millennial parents have more options to help make the job easier. Parents of young children can take a cue from special events like Babypalooza, which brings together top baby brands, parenting influencers and media to showcase the latest products and trends for new parents. Karyn Ravin, the presenter of Babypalooza, shares an inside look at the biggest highlights from this year’s event. 1. Embrace mealtime messes. Parents are encouraged to embrace the mess at mealtime when little ones are trying new foods. It can inspire a child’s creativity and…

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College bound? Dorm room comfort is crucial for health, happiness and academic success. Luckily, there are ways to create personalized, functional spaces within any budget. The college shopping experts at Bed Bath & Beyond are offering tips to help. Create Your Space Students can showcase their style and make it home by adding an area rug, decorative pillows and throw blanket for extra warmth. Window panels, tapestries, artwork and mirrors pull the room together. Add string-lights for atmosphere, or try an Étagère Floor Lamp with Charging Station to provide extra light for studying. Ample seating is always good for when…

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Nutrition is important for everyone, but especially for children, as it is directly linked to all aspects of their growth and development. Childhood obesity affects one in six children and adolescents in the United States. Though associated with elevated risks of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, bone and joint problems, and sleep apnea, among other health problems, childhood obesity can usually be prevented. “August, which is Kids Eat Right Month, is an ideal time for families to focus on the importance of healthful eating and active lifestyles,” says Kristi King, registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson.…

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