Category Archive

Lifestyle and Wellness

Pre- vs. Probiotics

Keesha Maybank 2026 August, Lifestyle and Wellness July 27, 2026

Though the words are nearly identical (and you may have heard them used interchangeably), probiotics and prebiotics are not the same thing. Probiotics are good-for-your-gut bacteria that help you break down food and keep inflammation at bay. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are what makes probiotics work. Essentially, they’re the “food source” that keeps probiotics alive. In order to maintain healthy gut microbiota, or the community of beneficial bacteria in your gut, it’s important to consume both probiotics and prebiotics.

Probiotics are found in fermented foods. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Yogurt (make sure it includes the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria)
  • Kombucha
  • Sauerkraut
  • Kimchi
  • Kefir (both dairy and nondairy versions)
  • Miso

If you’re eating fermented foods for their probiotic value, make sure that the food is unpasteurized. The pasteurization process kills bacteria in the food, which includes beneficial probiotics as well.

Prebiotics come from a more diverse array of foods, including:

  • Potatoes
  • Bananas (especially green, less-ripe ones)
  • Oats
  • Asparagus
  • Garlic
  • Leeks
  • Onions
  • Barley
  • Wheat bran

Together, probiotics and prebiotics support your health in a number of ways. They help to improve your immune system, quicken digestion and metabolism, fortify your gut barrier, and ease mental health symptoms. Healthy gut microbiota may even reduce the risk of developing cancer. Conversely, poor gut health can cause bloating, abdominal pain, or an increased risk of developing chronic conditions.

The daily recommended amount of fiber differs based on your age or sex, but 25-30 grams is a good goalpost. This amount will ensure that the probiotics in your gut are fed enough to survive and replicate. Most people achieve these levels of fiber without any conscious effort, but those with chronic diseases or a weakened immune system may find it difficult to maintain a healthy level of gut microbiota. In these cases, supplements are available.

Probiotic supplements come in pill, powder, or liquid form. When choosing a probiotic supplement, there are a couple things to take into consideration:

  • Strain of Bacteria: Different strains will have different impacts on your health. For example, Lactobacillus paracasei treats diarrhea, bifidobacterium bifidum helps symptoms of IBS, and Lactobacillus reuteri can reduce crying time in colicky infants. Make sure to choose a strain that will address your specific concern.
  • High CFUs: CFU, or colony-forming units, refers to the number of bacteria that can survive long enough to make it from your mouth to your gut. The minimum recommended amount is 1 million CFU, though the most benefits are seen at around a CFU of one hundred million.
  • Seal of Approval: Check to see if the supplement is labeled with an approval seal from testing agencies like National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), or ConsumerLab. These agencies are independent testers unassociated with the brand that check for quality and safety of the product.
  • Storage: Some supplements need to be refrigerated, while others can be kept at room temperature. Probiotics in spore form (for example, Bacillus coagulans or Bacillus subtilis) have a long shelf life and can survive well on the way to your digestive tract. Make sure to follow the instructions of the product, otherwise you may accidentally kill the helpful bacteria you’re trying to supplement.

While prebiotic supplements exist, it’s far easier (and cheaper) to eat fruits, vegetables, or whole grains that naturally add prebiotics to your system. Experts recommend only 5 grams of prebiotics a day and consuming too much can cause you to feel bloated, or experience diarrhea, constipation, or gas. If you have digestive issues, you may have difficulty digesting certain prebiotics like peaches, mangoes, or cherries.

The world of pro- and prebiotics may seem confusing at first, but healthy gut microbiota is easier to maintain than you would think. Simply making sure to eat your fruits and vegetables (and adding in the occasional fermented food) will help you experience all the benefits that probiotics and prebiotics have to offer.

Most healthy adults maintain a good composition of bacteria in the gut through their regular diet, without the need for supplements.

Household Hospitals: First Aid Kits

Keesha Maybank 2026 August, Lifestyle and Wellness July 27, 2026

Injuries, big and small, are a sad fact of life, and you never quite know what’s around the corner. First aid kits are a great way to stay prepared for anything life throws at you, whether that’s paper cuts or broken bones. You can buy pre-filled first aid kits at your local drug store, or you can put together your own. Whichever route you choose, it’s important to personalize your first aid kit to the specific needs of your family, home, and environment.

When it comes to preparing your first aid kit, the Red Cross offers a list of recommendations to include in the kit. These include:

  • Absorbent compress dressings
  • Adhesive band-aids
  • Adhesive cloth tape
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Aspirin
  • Emergency blanket
  • CPR breathing barrier, also known as a resuscitation mask or face shield
  • Instant/breakable ice packs
  • Nonlatex gloves
  • Hydrocortisone ointment
  • Gauze roll bandage
  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Thermometer (non-glass and non-mercury)
  • Triangular bandages
  • Tweezers
  • First aid instructions

While these recommendations are a great place to start, there are a few other things to keep in mind when stocking your first aid kit.

  • First aid recipients: Consider the needs of the people who will be using the first aid kit. Do you have young children? If so, it may be a good idea to include extra band-aids for scrapes or cuts. Does someone in your family use an EpiPen? Stock your first aid kit with an extra one, just in case.
  • Environmental issues: Pre-made first aid kits may not be personalized to your specific location. Are poison ivy or stinging nettles common to your area? You may want to include in your kit ointments for rashes that could be caused by your local flora. Supplies for dealing with mosquito, jellyfish, or scorpion bites are another helpful addition. You may also want to include allergy medication for seasonal allergies, or for dealing with allergic reactions.
  • Administering first aid: Do you know how each of the items in your first aid kit are used? Stockpiles of gauze and bandages won’t help much in an emergency if you don’t know what to do with them. Here are some important first aid tips:
  • How to stop bleeding: Place a sterile gauze pad on the wound and apply pressure to staunch the bleeding. If possible, elevate it above the heart. If the blood seeps through the pad, do not remove it. Instead, apply another gauze pad and continue applying pressure.
  • The Heimlich Maneuver: Used for assisting someone who is choking, the Heimlich maneuver can free a blockage from an affected person’s throat. Stand behind the person and lean them slightly forward. Then, wrap your arms around their waist. Clench one first and place it between the person’s belly button and rib cage. Place your free hand around the fist and bring sharply backward and upward, under the person’s rib cage in five thrusts. Repeat until the object is coughed up.
  • Treating burns: Hold the burn under cool (not cold) running water for several minutes. If it’s a minor burn, apply ointment before wrapping the burn in gauze. Do not place ice on the burn. A first-degree burn only affects the outer layer of skin and is considered a minor burn. Burns that affect two layers of skin, or one that causes white or blackened skin are considered major burns. Major burns require medical attention.
  • Dealing with sprains and broken bones: Keep the limb still and elevate it. Place an ice pack on the injury, with a barrier between the ice pack and the skin. If necessary, use anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil or Tylenol. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

In an emergency, it could be difficult to remember the exact steps for administering first aid. It may be helpful to include instruction sheets or notes in your first aid kit, so that you’re prepared for anything, even if your mind goes blank.

Make sure to keep your first aid kit in an easily accessible area. Every six months, check your first aid kit to see if anything has expired and needs replacing. A good way to remember to do this is checking your kit whenever you change your clocks for daylight savings. You never know when you may need a first aid kit, so it’s important to always keep it up to date.

In emergencies, every second matters. The application of first aid
can significantly reduce the severity of a person’s injuries.

Golden Years, Golden You

Keesha Maybank 2026 August, Lifestyle and Wellness July 27, 2026

Exercise, balanced diets, and visits with friends and family are a vital part of our wellbeing at any age. But as we grow older, our bodies change. Things that came easy to us may begin to feel difficult to manage. But that doesn’t mean you should throw healthy living out the window — instead, try modifying your routines to fit your body, rather than the other way around. Here are some ways that you can stay active and healthy throughout your golden years.

The word “exercise” might bring to mind running marathons or lifting heavy weights, but there are many types of physical exercise that are far less strenuous on the body, and which still give you a multitude of health benefits. Regular physical helps lower your risk of developing cancer or dementia, improve balance, and even boost your memory and thinking skills. It’s recommended to get at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Some accessible types of physical activity include:

  • Walking around the neighborhood at a brisk pace
  • Tai chi or gentle yoga
  • Water aerobics
  • Gardening and household chores

Your body isn’t the only thing that’s in need of exercising — your brain needs it too! Brain exercises are any activity that engages your brain through focused problem-solving and learning. In order to be effective, the exercises must be difficult, but not too difficult that you become bored or uninterested. Research shows that engaging in brain exercise boosts your reasoning and processing speed, and can help you prevent cognitive decline. Some great ways to keep your brain happy and healthy are:

  • Crossword or jigsaw puzzles
  • Model building
  • Knitting projects
  • Mahjong
  • Chess
  • Bingo

Another important secret to living a long, healthy life is diet. As we age, we lose strength and muscle mass. Our bodies use calories slower, and we need less of them to maintain the same weight. Protein is especially important to combat the loss of muscle mass, and experts recommend eating 1-1.2 grams a day. Calcium and vitamin D are another important part of diets for older adults. Both nutrients help strengthen your bones, which become brittle over time, leading to more serious injuries in the case of falls. Older adults should consume 1,200 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D each day. A balanced diet can help lower the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Focus on a diet that includes:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains for fiber
  • Healthy fats, like olive oil or avocadoes
  • Lean proteins like fish or chicken
  • Low-fat milk

It’s also important to stay hydrated. As you age, your sense of thirst decreases, which means you may not realize when your body needs water. If you begin to experience confusion, tiredness, or lightheadedness, these may be signs of dehydration. In older adults, dehydration can more easily turn into health problems, including problems with memory, fatigue, weakness, and pressure sores. It’s recommended to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water every day. Another way to maintain your hydration levels is by adding high water content foods to your diet. Some examples are soup, yogurt, gelatin desserts, and pureed fruits.

A cornerstone of healthy living is social interaction. In a 2023 poll, 37% of American adults aged 50-80 reported that they experienced loneliness, and 34% reported feeling socially isolated. Loneliness has a significant effect on our wellbeing and is associated with a higher risk of dementia, depression, anxiety, and heart disease. There are countless ways to stay connected as you age. Some examples are:

  • Joining a senior center
  • Taking classes at local colleges
  • Volunteer work
  • Joining hobby-related groups, like pottery or birdwatching

Yoga, tai chi, and other dance-like exercises improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls.

Chronic Illness and Health Issues Faced by U.S. Veterans

Kaylon Walton 2026 July, Lifestyle and Wellness June 6, 2026
Mature doctor talking to army soldier

The battles that military personnel face do not stop once they return home from deployment. United States veterans experience significant long-term health issues and chronic diseases in numbers much higher than in non-veterans. This includes physical injuries, mental health struggles, and conditions that develop after retirement. Some of the most common medical conditions found in the United States veteran population include:

Black Psychologist Lady Making Therapy Session In Office With Depressed Female Soldier
Worried senior man with female doctor in waiting room at the clinic.

AL Amyloidosis, Hodgkin’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, prostate cancer, and respiratory cancers can be caused by exposure to herbicides, which includes Agent Orange.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers healthcare to veterans. Those who served in active military, naval, or air service and didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge may be eligible to sign up for VA healthcare. Some current or former Reserves or National Guards members may also be eligible if they have been called to active duty. VA healthcare covers the Affordable Care Act’s 10 essential health benefits, which include doctor’s visits, preventative care, rehabilitation services, and mental health support.

There are also many nonprofit organizations that support veterans and help connect them to benefits and social groups.

America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) helps veterans and their families find organizations in their local area. By helping veterans connect with their communities, the AWP helps prevent veteran suicide. In 2023, the Military Family Advisory Network (MFAN) found that 59.1% of military and veteran families reported experiencing loneliness. Research shows that loneliness and feeling of suicidality are related, making the AWP’s work an important part of veteran’s health post-employment.

Psychologist Lady Comforting African American Military Woman At Therapy Session
Unrecognizable wounded warrior discusses symptoms with doctor

The Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) offers veterans and their families a variety of free programs, events, and assistance to help veterans return to civilian life. Their mental health program, Warrior Care Network, offers treatment for PTSD and other mental health disorders. They also provide the Warriors to Work program, which connects veterans to employers. Project Odyssey is a free 12-week mental health program for veterans and their families that teaches methods of dealing with mental health disorders. The Independence Program provides veterans with social workers and therapists to help overcome severe physical or neurological conditions that make day-to-day living difficult. The WWP helps veterans in every aspect of their lives, from mental health to peer support.

Hiring Our Heroes is a not-for-profit organization focused on helping veterans transition into the civilian workforce. They also provide resources for military spouses and active service members. Through virtual and in-person hiring events, workshops, and seminars, HOH serves an important role for the military community.

Middle Aged Caucasian Man Receiving Support during Psychology Counseling Session

There are more than 18 million veterans in the U.S., but only 6 million veterans utilize the VA’s healthcare programs.

Dieting Without Calorie Counting

Kaylon Walton 2026 July, Lifestyle and Wellness June 6, 2026
Food products representing the Mediterranean diet

Dieting is often synonymous with counting calories or chugging protein drinks. They can be difficult to maintain and may feel like more work than they’re worth. But the Mediterranean diet offers a new way to eat healthy and stay fit. Inspired by the traditional foods of the countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, the Mediterranean diet does not have calorie intake restrictions. Rather, the focus is on the types of food you’re consuming. It emphasizes eating plant-based foods without being vegan or vegetarian. Fish, poultry, and eggs are a regular part of most Mediterranean diet plans. In general, the Mediterranean diet includes:

  • Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, lentils, and nuts
  • Swapping unhealthy fats for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a source of healthy fats
  • Replacing red meat with fish, poultry, or beans
  • Removing candy or foods with added sugar
  • Consuming a moderate amount of red wine with meals (if you drink alcohol)

The Mediterranean diet has a multitude of documented health benefits. It has been shown to help you maintain a healthy body weight and keep weight off once you lose it. Extra virgin olive oil and fish are good sources of unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which decrease cholesterol levels, support brain health, and help prevent heart disease. Extra virgin olive oil may also remove excess cholesterol from your arteries.

The Mediterranean diet is full of foods that support healthy blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and a balance of microbiota in your gut. The diet also limits sodium intake, helping to keep your heart healthy. The Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of developing or experiencing:

  • Parkinson’s
  • Alzheimer’s
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Obesity-related cancer
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Metabolic syndrome
Woman, salad bowl and healthy food. Person in the kitchen preparing a well balanced meal. Olive oil, fruits, vegetables and salmon. Diet to control the obesity and boost metabolism

For these reasons, both the American Heart Association (AHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend the Mediterranean diet as a great way to maintain good health and wellbeing as you age. If you’re interested in beginning your own Mediterranean diet, here are foods from the Mediterranean area that you can incorporate into your meals:

  • Vegetables: Asparagus, watercress, beet, onions, garlic, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, cucumbers, artichokes, okra, corn, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash, zucchini, potato, avocado, olive, chard
  • Fruits: Grapes, apple, fig, pear, plum, cherry, raspberry, lemon, watermelon, melon
  • Nuts and seeds: Almond, hazelnut, walnut, chestnut, sunflower seeds, cashew
  • Herbs and spices: Parsley, cumin, coriander, fennel, oregano, rosemary, sage, lemon balm, bay leaf, saffron, turmeric, cloves, ginger
  • Legumes: Chickpea, soybean, lentil, beans
  • Whole grains: Wheat, buckwheat, rice, pasta
  • Fish and seafood: Salmon, cod, tuna, sardines, trout, clams, crab, shrimp, lobster, mussels
  • Poultry: Chicken, turkey, duck
  • Dairy: Brie, feta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, ricotta, cottage cheese, mozzarella, blue cheese, Swiss cheese, Greek yogurt

There are countless Mediterranean diet recipes out there to help you swap over to a Mediterranean diet or simply incorporate more healthy Mediterranean foods into your day-to-day. Some great (and easy) options to get you started are:

Breakfast

  • Greek yogurt with fruits and vegetables
  • Overnight oats
  • Omelet topped with vegetables and mushrooms
  • Oatmeal pecan waffles
  • Whole-grain toast topped with fruits, jam, or peanut butter
  • Fruit smoothies

Lunch

Dinner

Snacks

  • A handful of nuts or seeds
  • Fruits
  • Whole-grain crackers and cheese
  • Carrots or cucumbers with hummus
  • Vegetables and Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese and fruit
  • Tortilla chips and guacamole

In a world where processed foods are cheap and readily available, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes an environment-driven lifestyle that prioritizes health and wellbeing.

Group of healthy ingredients high in unsaturated fatty acid and Omega-3. Food that improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. Olive oil, avocado, salmon, sardine, chia seed, nuts

The Mediterranean diet was recognized by UNESCO as being an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its role in bringing together community.

Signs of Domestic Abuse

Kaylon Walton 2026 July, Lifestyle and Wellness June 6, 2026
Sad and worried woman side portrait at home in the dark looking outside the window. Worried and lonely female alone indoor. Concept of end of relationship and unsuccessful emotion. Lady touching face

Domestic abuse is highly prevalent in the United States. Nearly 1 in every 2 women and more than 2 in every 5 men report domestic abuse at some point in their lives. While physical abuse may be the most known form of intimate partner violence, it is not the only way that abuse manifests in relationships. Being able to recognize signs of domestic abuse is incredibly important in keeping ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities safe.

Portrait of Fragile Crying Man being Harrased and Bullied by Partner. Couple Arguing and Fighting Violently. Domestic Violence, Emotional Abuse, Toxic Behavior. Rack Focus with Girlfriend Screaming

Some common signs of abusive behavior in a partner include:

  • Telling a partner that they can’t do anything right
  • Being extremely jealous when a partner spends time with others
  • Preventing a partner from making their own decisions
  • Insulting a partner in front of others
  • Pressuring a partner to do things they don’t want to do
  • Threatening physical violence

If one or more of these signs are present in a relationship, it may signal that abuse is occurring.

Physical abuse does not only refer to physical attacks but also threats of violence. It usually occurs alongside other forms of abuse, such as emotional or financial. Signs that you or someone else may be experiencing physical abuse include:

  • Punching, scratching, choking, kicking, strangling, biting, or smothering a partner
  • Throwing items at or near a partner
  • Touching a partner without permission
  • Pulling a partner’s hair
  • Preventing a partner from leaving home or calling emergency services
  • Driving recklessly or abandoning a partner in unfamiliar places
  • Forcing a partner to use drugs or alcohol
  • Preventing a partner from taking medication

Emotional abuse refers to non-physical behaviors intended to demean, isolate, control, and intimidate another person. Emotional abuse is subtle, but no less serious than physical violence. Signs of emotional abuse include:

  • Insults and name calling
  • Attempts to control what a partner wears
  • Gaslighting
  • Cheating to intentionally hurt a partner
  • Blaming a partner for their abusive behaviors
  • Making a partner feel guilty for saying no to something, sexual or otherwise
  • Constant criticization
woman holding leg, stressed
Unrecognizable sad woman and man in silhouette

Sexual abuse refers to non-consensual or forced physical and sexual intimacy. Refusing to allow the use of birth control, condoms, or other methods of sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention are forms of sexual abuse. Other signs include:

  • Unwanted kissing, touching, or violent sexual activity
  • Forcing a partner to dress in sexual outfits
  • Using explicit or sexual names to insult a partner
  • Sexual contact with those who cannot give clear consent, including those who are intoxicated, unconscious, or asleep
  • Strangling, restraining, or holding a partner down during sex without consent
  • Involving weapons, objects, or other people in sexual activity without consent
  • Intentionally hurting a partner during sex or attempting to give a partner an STI

Financial or economic abuse involves the abusive partner controlling the finances of another to maintain control and power over them. Financial abuse can look like:

  • Monitoring a partner’s transactions or imposing an allowance
  • Depositing a partner’s money into an account they can’t access
  • Harassing a partner’s employer or coworkers
  • Maxing out a partner’s credit card without permission
  • Restricting the number of hours a partner is allowed to work
  • Stealing money
  • Refusing to give the partner money for necessary items like food, clothing, or medical care
Aggressive man and unhappy crying frightened woman. Domestic violence.

Online abuse, or technology-facilitated abuse, involves the use of technology to bully, harass, frighten, or control a partner. This can include stealing the passwords of a partner’s social media, looking through a parter’s phone without permission, or monitoring a partner’s whereabouts through GPS or spyware. Another form of technology-facilitated abuse is Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA), which refers to the theft, creation, distribution, or extortion of sexually explicit material without the consent of the person depicted in the content. Examples of IBSA are:

  • Using sexually explicit material as blackmail
  • Non-consensually distributing sexual material (sometimes referred to as “revenge porn”)
  • Taking non-consensual photos or videos by positing the phone above or underneath another person (sometimes referred to as “down blousing” or “upskirting”)
  • Generating or creating sexually explicit videos or photos with AI or photoshop (sometimes called “deepfake”)

If you suspect that you, a loved one, or a member of your community are experiencing domestic abuse, there are many ways to find or offer help:

  • Find support: Talk to a friend, family member, or mentor
  • Create a safety plan: Through the National Domestic Violence Hotline, you or another person experiencing abuse can create a practical plan to help identify abuse, find the words to describe the situation, and prepare to leave.
  • Go to an emergency room or health clinic: Providers can treat injuries resulting from assault, offer medications for STIs or birth control, and may be able to connect you or another person to sexual assault advocates.
  • Contact love is respect to speak to an advocate and find nearby resources. You can call, text, or chat on their website with support available 24/7.
Woman looking stressed while talking on her phone

The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers resources for people from all walks of life, including support services for Deaf or hard of hearing and Native American survivors.

College Life and Health Insurance

Lynn White 2026 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 18, 2026

Acceptance letters, roommates, and dorm-sized furniture — there’s a lot to keep track of when getting ready for college.

Catastrophic health insurance plans protect you from high medical costs in the case of an emergency.
Available to anyone under 30, they’re usually cheaper than other plans, but have high deductibles.

Health insurance may be far down your lists of concerns, but you don’t want to get caught paying out of pocket for doctor’s appointments when the flu is going around. There are many health insurance options for college students, helping you to stay healthy while attending class.

The first option, if you’re under the age of 26, is to remain on your parents’ plan. This is often the most affordable option. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), young adults can remain on their parents’ health plan until age 26. After that, the coverage drops either at the end your birthday month, or at the end of the plan year, depending on the plan. This is often the easiest method for full-time students at the beginning of their career. However, if you’re attending college out of state or in a new area, in-network doctors and hospitals may not be readily available.

In that case, it might be a better option to apply for health insurance through your college or university. These plans are often more affordable than private healthcare and offer good coverage of on-campus care. However, you may lose coverage when the semester or term year ends. Most school-sponsored health insurance plans are regulated by the ACA. This means that the plans will cover the ACA’s designated 10 essential health benefits:

  • Preventative services
  • Doctor’s visits
  • Emergency services
  • Hospitalizations
  • Laboratory services
  • Prescription drug coverage
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Mental health services
  • Rehabilitation services
  • Pediatric services, including dental and vision care

You can also apply for health insurance directly through ACA’s marketplace during Open Enrollment season, which lasts from November 1 – January 15 in most states. If you experience a Qualifying Life Event, you can enroll in a health insurance plan anytime throughout the year. Qualifying Life Events include turning 26 and losing coverage through a parent’s plan, moving to a new ZIP code, or getting a new job.

For some students, Medicaid may be an option. Medicaid provides free or low-cost health insurance to those with qualifying incomes. Eligibility for Medicaid plans depends on your state.

There is also the option of private healthcare, though this may come with a higher price tag. Private healthcare may cover more than the 10 essential health benefits regulated by the ACA.

Kaiser Permanente offers healthcare for students enrolled at university in Kaiser areas (California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C.). Kaiser plans offer virtual care 24/7 by phone or online, which may make it easier for those living far from their usual doctors to seek medical help while staying at in-network prices. However, some states have laws against seeking virtual care across state lines, so it’s best to double check your local laws. Kaiser plans also cover emergency and urgent care abroad and across the U.S., even in non-Kaiser areas.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas offers healthcare through several Texas universities under their AcademicBlue program. Similar to Kaiser Permanente, the AcademicBlue program covers virtual visits, which can make securing an in-network doctor’s appointment easier, even if you’re far from an in-person hospital. If your school isn’t listed on the AcademicBlue website, you can also apply for an individual plan.

UHC offers health insurance plans for college students that have lower deductibles and premiums than their other plans. The student plans also offer coverage for school-sponsored, on-site health clinics, which may not be covered under other private healthcare plans.

It’s important to consider your health insurance options as a college student to ensure you’re getting the best care for the best price. Are the 10 essential health benefits offered through ACA and ACA-regulated school plans enough to cover your needs, or do you need private healthcare’s more comprehensive coverage? Stay healthy throughout the semester by finding the plan that’s right for you.

Some states have expanded Medicaid eligibility to include individuals
under 65 with household income up to 138% of the federal poverty level.

Sunscreen vs. Sunblock

Lynn White 2026 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 18, 2026

When you’re headed to the beach, do you reach for your “sunblock” or “sunscreen“?

You may have heard these words used interchangeably to refer to various types of liquid or spray UV protection. But sunblock and sunscreen are actually two separate products with differing ingredients, consistencies, and methods of protecting you from the sun.

Sunscreens, also known as chemical blockers, absorb the sun’s ultraviolet rays and convert them into non-damaging red light, or heat. They come in both sprays and lotions and must be massaged into the skin at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Since sunscreens are absorbed by the skin, they don’t leave a white cast.

Sunblock, sometimes called physical blockers or mineral sunscreen, reflect ultraviolet rays back into the environment. They are slathered onto the skin right before sun exposure and act as a physical barrier between you and the sun. Sunblock ingredients include either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which is what gives sunblock its signature white cast.

Both sunscreen and sunblock offer powerful protection from ultraviolet light, and neither is better or worse than the other. It’s all up to personal preference. People with sensitive skin may prefer sunblock to sunscreen since one of the sunscreen’s ingredients, oxybenzone, can cause allergic reactions. Sunblock is also less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts, making them a good choice for acne-prone individuals. Sunscreen, on the other hand, has much easier application and better water-resistant formulas, so they may be a better option for outdoor activities and swimming.

When choosing what type of UV protection to buy at the store, you’ll find the products labeled with phrases such as “broad spectrum” and “SPF.” But what do these actually mean? Broad spectrum sunscreens and sunblock offer protection from the “spectrum” of ultraviolet light, both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA rays can cause skin aging, including premature age spots, wrinkles, and saggy skin, while UVB rays are what causes sunburn. Together, both rays cause skin cancer. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and refers to how well the product protects you from sunburn. SPF 15 filters out 93% of the sun’s UVB rays, while SPF 30 filters out 97%. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends broad spectrum sunscreen or sunblock with SPF 30 or higher for the best protection when out in the sun. It’s important to note that no sunscreen offers 100% protection from UV, so you should stick to the shade when possible and wear sun-protective clothing, which can include long-sleeved shirts, lightweight sun hoodies, and wide-brim hats.

Whether you use sunscreen or sunblock, you’ll need to reapply your UV protection to ensure your skin stays protected. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can break down the sunscreen’s ingredients, or your sunblock can be washed away by ocean waves or sweat. If you’re not sweating or swimming, a good rule of thumb is to reapply sunscreen every two hours. But, if your skin begins to feel or look dry, redden, or you start to feel a prickly or burning sensation, these are signs that your UV protection has worn off and needs to be reapplied. Otherwise, UV protection should be reapplied after sweating, toweling off, or getting out of the water. If you’re swimming in the sun for long stretches of time, sunscreens and sunblock labeled “water resistant” will last longer than regular UV protection. However, these should still be reapplied every 40 to 80 minutes.

UV protection is vital in protecting yourself from skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States. Be proactive in your health by applying sunscreen or sunblock whenever you head outside, whether that’s trips to the beach or just walking your dog.

It’s important to apply UV protection to every part of our bodies.
Some easily overlooked spots are your ears, eyelids, lips, and scalp.

Odorless and Overlooked: Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

Lynn White 2026 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 18, 2026

Carbon monoxide, abbreviated to CO, is an odorless, colorless gas produced when certain fuels, such as gasoline, propane, charcoal, or wood, are burned. Many household items from stoves to fireplaces produce carbon monoxide.

Prolonged carbon monoxide exposure causes carbon monoxide poisoning, which can result in long- and short-term health problems and death. Every year, more than 400 Americans die of CO poisoning and upwards of 14,000 are hospitalized. These numbers come from accidental, non-fire related exposure, which means they’re completely preventable.

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure over time are often described as “flu-like.” These include headache, muscle weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion, and sleepiness. Carbon monoxide inhalation can also result in the loss of consciousness. Breathing in large amounts of CO causes it to replace the oxygen in our red blood cells, leading to tissue damage in our brains and hearts. The severity of symptoms and lasting health issues is directly connected to the amount of CO inhaled and for how long. Those who lose consciousness from CO inhalation can experience further health issues stemming from nervous system or brain damage that come on after recovery. These symptoms include memory loss, personality changes, and movement issues. If you experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s important to find fresh air immediately and seek medical attention.

CO’s lack of color and smell makes it difficult to detect, but there are many ways to mitigate the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • CO Detectors: These battery-operated devices monitor the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and will sound an alarm if the levels get too high. It’s recommended to place CO detectors in living areas, outside each bedroom, in the basement, and near (not inside) the garage. Generally, CO detectors need to be replaced every 5 years, unless the manufacturer states otherwise. To ensure they’re working properly, it’s best to check the batteries twice a year. A great way to remember to do this is to inspect the CO detector when the clocks change in spring and fall.

Despite the number of CO-producing items in our homes, state laws are only recently making CO detectors mandatory in newly built houses. Unlike smoke detectors, you may not have pre-installed CO detectors in your house, especially if it was built before legislation changed the building codes in 2011. While it may take a little effort to purchase your own CO detectors or have your appliances checked, it’s important to the health of everyone living in your home. Carbon monoxide poisoning causes hundreds of deaths and thousands of hospitalizations a year, all of which can be prevented by extra care.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause brain and heart damage that doesn’t heal,
leading to the development of life-threatening diseases.

One Man’s Recycling Is Another Man’s Treasure

2026 May, Lifestyle and Wellness April 28, 2026

According to a 2025 study conducted by WM Recycling Report, 77% of Americans report that they recycle. But the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows a different story. Only 32.1% of discarded material is actually recycled. An article from California Management Review may point to the answer: most people just aren’t sure what is or isn’t recyclable. While policies may change depending on your state, here’s a list of items you might not have known are recyclable:

  • Mattress: A lot of mattress components can be reused in different products. The foam and cloth can live a second life as insulation and carpet padding, the springs can be repurposed as car parts or building materials, and the wood frames can be turned into shipping pallets or mulch. Earth 911 can help you locate a recycling center near you that will take your old mattresses. For those who live in California, Connecticut, Rhode Island, or Oregon, the government-backed Bye Bye Mattress program streamlines the process.
  • Toothbrushes and Toothpaste: If you have a Crest or Oral-B toothbrush, you can participate in their Recycle On Us They accept used plastic toothbrushes, toothbrush head refills, toothpaste tubes, mouthwash containers, floss containers, and floss picks. You can request a free shipping label from their website, and your old toothbrushes will be recycled into a multitude of products, including park benches and clothes. Colgate offers a similar recycling program and accepts all brands of toothbrushes or empty oral care packaging. You can find your local drop-off location through their site.
  • Carpet: Carpet is often made with synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester, which break down over time and leak harmful chemicals into the environment. Most local municipality recycling centers will take carpet, but if you’re installing new flooring, ask whether the retailer will take your old carpet. Several companies, such as Antron and J + J Flooring, have reclamation programs to ensure that used carpet doesn’t end up in a landfill.
  • Car Batteries: Car batteries contain lead and acid, which can cause water and soil pollution, as well as long-term health issues. You can recycle car batteries through municipality recycling centers, but metal recycling centers and car parts shops like the AutoZone will pay you to take the car batteries off your hands.
  • Nike Shoes: Nike offers their Recycling + Donation program, which allows you to drop off your old Nike shoes or apparel at any Nike store. The shoes are then recycled or donated to those in need.
  • Packing Peanuts and Styrofoam Cups: Polystyrene, the material used in packing peanut and Styrofoam cups, breaks down into small pieces over time, which are harmful for wildlife. Polystyrene cannot be recycled at a local recycling center and must be sent to a centralized plant. The Dart Container Corporation, the world’s largest manufacturer of foam cups and containers, accepts the return of Dart brand polystyrene products (as well as Dart paper and plastic items). These are melted down and turned into polystyrene pellets, which can be used to make more polystyrene items.
  • HP Ink Cartridges: Similar to Nike’s recycling program, HP allows you to drop off your old HP or Samsung ink cartridges at Staples, Best Buy, Office Depot/Max, or Walmart for recycling. Their website also offers free shipping labels, boxes, and envelopes if you prefer to mail back your cartridges, as well as the option to schedule a pickup if you have more than 1,000 ink cartridges.
  • Batteries: Any batteries labelled with the word “lithium” (lithium single-use or some coin-shaped batteries) should never be put in the trash. Lithium batteries can cause fires and must be properly dealt with by a recycling company. Many local districts hold collection events for batteries and some battery manufacturers, including The Battery Network and Ridwell have mail-in programs. Some Home Depot locations have The Battery Network bins for collection in store.

Recycling provides many benefits to our environment, but did you know it also benefits our economy as well? In a single year, recycling accounted for 681,000 jobs, $37.8 billion in wages, and $5.5 billion in tax revenues.

Many companies offer easy (and free) ways to recycle your old items. With just a little effort, you can help reduce landfill waste, protect wildlife, and support the health of our environment.

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