E-cigarettes, also known as e-cigs, vapes, vape pens and electronic nicotine delivery systems, continue to rise in popularity. They’re seen by some as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. They’re not. Not only do they deliver the highly addictive drug, nicotine, they also produce a chemical-filled aerosol, not, as some think, harmless water vapor. A … Read More
“Putting up” summer’s fresh fruits and veggies lets you savor the delights of the season longer. Most of us eat our fill of fresh produce when it’s at its peak, but those with foresight place a little bit to the side and “put it up,” by canning it, to enjoy long after green vines and … Read More
As we head into the middle of summer in the River Region, temperatures will likely climb to the 90s – and that’s in the shade. So, unless you like pretending that your house is a sauna, your air conditioning unit will be working hard to keep you and your family comfortable. That could lead to … Read More
Sugar sure is sweet, but the havoc it can wreak on your health is anything but. Overdo it on cookies, cakes, candy and the many other foods and drinks laden with this ubiquitous substance, and you could end up dealing with a host of issues and diseases including (but not limited to) Type 2 diabetes, … Read More
Nobody lives forever, but you can add some time to your ledger and help ensure you remain healthy and active for more of your years with these simple-to-implement steps to take and habits to create. Since man came to understand his own mortality, the human race has been looking for a way to cheat death. … Read More
Central Alabama’s high July and August temps can often be oppressive, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities. One way to keep your cool is to stay in the shade. Check out these beat-the-heat hike options that beckon with woodland wonderlands. (Perry Lakes Park & Wildlife Sanctuary pictured above.) Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail This … Read More
Sunshine has multiple benefits. It’s warm. It’s pretty. And it delivers a good dose of the valuable vitamin D, which is important to our overall health. But, too much sun exposure also carries some serious risks, including skin damage (than can, among other things, lead to premature aging) and skin cancer, so safely getting enough … Read More
Droughts, inflation, global events: Many things affect food prices, and in the last year, they’ve been on the rise in several categories. No matter why they go up, and even if they go down, creating a grocery budget — and sticking to it — will help you lower your food expenditures. And a smart budget … Read More
The weather is warming, flowers are blooming, birds are chirping — Spring is on its way, energizing everything in its path. Put your energy boost into a thorough spring-cleaning, using these ideas to get you started. Green Cleaning The urge to rid your home of all dust, grime and germs might lead you to pull … Read More
Would you like to feel more relaxed, energetic and less stressed? Then add this list of stress-busting foods to your diet. They’re good for you and taste great too! Avocados” Bananas usually get all the praise when we’re talking about potassium, but avocados are packed with potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E too. All … Read More