Health and wellness : article
During Mental Health Awareness Month, two MU Extension specialists offer tips to help lighten the load for others.
Teen leaders in the Missouri 4-H Healthy Habits program are promoting nutrition education and food access to underserved youths and families. The program is supported by the National 4-H Council and the Walmart Foundation.
When people talk about being physically active, many think of aerobic activities, but it is also about being strong. Getting the heart and lungs working to full capacity has great health benefits. Walking is perhaps the most common form of this type of exercise. When the weather permits, the…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Agriculture workers are 20 times more likely than other workers to die from heat.Heat deaths are 100 percent preventable with water, rest and shade, says University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch.
BETHEL, Mo –Chris Allen wanted out of the bed. He argued with hospital staff that he needed to go home to harvest crops, feed cattle and cut firewood to heat his farmhouse.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – All medicine has side effects.
Even minor side effects can be deadly for farmers, says Kelly Cochran of the Missouri AgrAbility Project’s Pharm to Farm program.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If you’re losing your way instead of your weight, University of Missouri Extension specialists have evaluated and recommended several smartphone and tablet apps that might help you get your New Year’s resolution back on track.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If hitting the snooze button three times is more appealing than having a bowl of cereal, you might be a skip-breakfast sinner.
Columbia, Mo. – We expect the winter holidays to be full of happiness and good will. Just like Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol," we want a fairytale ending where troubles disappear and everyone basks in the glow of holiday spirit. But, "A Tale of Two Cities" might better represent typical…
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. — Even if you think you’re getting used to the triple-digit temperatures, you need to watch out for signs of heat-related illness.
Forms of heat-related illness include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, says Tammy Roberts, University of Missouri Extension nutrition…
Despite their popularity, energy drinks are not the best option nutritionally, said Tammy Roberts, former University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.“Unfortunately, the energy in these drinks comes from sugar and stimulants like caffeine, guarana, ginseng and green…
Whether you’re showing livestock at a county fair, picnicking at the park or working outdoors, University of Missouri Extension has research-based resources to help you stay safe when summer temperatures sizzle.
Keeping your cool
News releases
MORRISON, Mo. – Jim Brinkmann’s blindness does not keep him from helping others with vision problems reach their potential.
GRANITE CITY, Ill.– After Bobby Hutchinson lost his left leg in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm, he thought he’d never play golf again.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – It is estimated that more than 700 plant species growing in North America can have harmful effects on humans, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A University of Missouri Extension food safety specialist offers safety suggestions for volunteers delivering food to those in need during the COVID-19 era.
BETHANY, Mo. – One heart-healthy way to your Valentine’s heart is dark chocolate.Dark chocolate and cocoa may have health benefits if consumed in moderation, says University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist Janet Hackert.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The best time to prepare for an emergency is when there is no emergency, says Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist.
MONETT, Mo. – Cindy McCracken says she’s on a mission to live a healthier life. A partnership in southwestern Missouri is helping her do just that.
Every five years the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services publish the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines are developed by an expert panel of nutrition and health professionals to help all Americans consume a healthy and nutritionally adequate diet.
COLUMBIA, Mo. –Frigid weather across the Midwest puts the elderly at special risk, said a University of Missouri Extension safety specialist.
“Elderly in poorly heated homes or those of low income may unknowingly keep temperatures in a dangerous range in attempts to lower their heating bills.”…
Neckties may be a popular Father’s Day gift, but wouldn’t it be nice to give Dad the gift of a long, healthy li
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.– Doctors and nutritionists often focus on reducing sodium in our diets to maintain heart health. That’s important, but don’t overlook the role of potassium, says Lynda Johnson, nutrition and health education specialist with University of Missouri Extension.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. - Many people try to fulfill their nutrition needs by taking dietary supplements. But instead of buying supplements, you might want to head to the produce aisle to meet your dietary requirements, said a University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.
COLUMBIA, Mo. —Learning is hungry work. Schoolchildren typically eat lunch around 11:30 and then have classes all afternoon. Add an after-school activity or two and by the time they get home they’re running on empty. It’s small wonder that many kids head straight to the kitchen to devour whatever…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Opioid addiction keeps an estimated 1 million Missourians out of the workforce and costs the state about $1 million an hour, including the loss of jobs and wages.
BETHANY, Mo. – People looking to lose weight or eat healthier have sought to reduce calories, carbs and fats in their diets. In recent years, health-conscious consumers have been seeking out foods with a low glycemic index. But how effective is this for managing health?
Summer is a great time to “green up” your diet by eating more fresh or cooked greens.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – Grilling meat over open flame can produce tasty meals. But it can also produce harmful chemicals, especially if the temperature is above 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
MEXICO, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension Master Gardeners and Grow Well Missouri partner to plant seeds of hope in food pantry clients at Mexico’s Help Center.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Use of legal and illegal substances sometimes increases during the holidays. It might be extra celebratory cocktails with friends or self-medication to deal with depression or stress.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri ranks below the national average in many key measures related to health and access to health care, especially in rural parts of the state.
Longevity appears to be more about healthy lifestyle than genes.
BUTLER, Mo. – It won’t be long before ghosties, ghoulies, princesses and pirates will run through neighborhoods, demanding treats and idly threatening tricks.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – When the news has another tragic story about a child accidentally left in a hot car, parents might believe they could never make a mistake like that.
KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Picky eaters can turn every meal into a battle of wills. If it’s too green, too crunchy, too soft, too orange or just any vegetable, they will not eat it.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – It’s not cool to be hot, says University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch. Water, rest and shade help workers beat the heat.
During heat waves, farmers and ranchers face increased risk of heat-related illness, which in severe cases can be fatal…
HOUSTON, Mo. – Laundry packets offer loads of temptation for curious children.
OSCEOLA, Mo. –The chance of a swimmer in the U.S. being attacked by a shark is close to zero. But dangerous creatures do lurk in our waters, including lakes, ponds and even concrete swimming pools.
University of Missouri Extension has information and resources for individuals, families, caregivers and others.
Supportive resources and guidance for coping with grief and loss, including emotional healing, mourning, and understanding the grieving process.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – Charbroiling, grilling over open flame, broiling and pan frying meats can produce tasty meals. Unfortunately, these methods, especially if the temperature is above 300 degrees Fahrenheit, also result in the formation of certain undesirable chemicals.
It has been well-known for some time now that women enjoy longer life spans than men all around the world.
Missouri 4-H has introduced the Youth Nutrition Ambassador program, where teens can lead initiatives to promote healthy eating and community wellness.
The MU School of Medicine honors National Rural Health Day, highlighting its dedication to improving healthcare in rural communities.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – There’s a new University of Missouri Extension guide to discuss one of summer’s old pests.
The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association have released their 2007 recommendations for physical activity. These guidelines have been revised since the last update in 1995. Their goal is to help people live more active and healthy lives.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – There is evidence that nutrients can play an important role in treating and preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 60 in the United States.
The use of dietary supplements has grown dramatically over the last decade.
Young athletes, eager to be a starting player or earn a scholarship, may be tempted to follow the lead of pros and use performance enhancers to gain a competitive edge.
Each year more than one-third of adults 65 years and older fall.
BETHANY, Mo. – Cold and flu season is in full swing. One defense against them is to get plenty of vitamin E.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Recent news may have some consumers confused about the status of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or so they say. Picture-perfect families with perfectly coiffed hair and pearly white smiles appear in matching holiday attire in countless holiday television commercials. Perfectly wrapped gifts wait under perfectly decorated trees. How…
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–Are you hassling the kids every night to do their homework when they want to spend too much time watching TV, playing video games or surfing the Internet?
COLUMBIA, Mo. – High heat puts the public at risk. Since 1980, heat waves in Missouri have killed more people than lightning, tornadoes, thunderstorms and floods combined, says University of Missouri Extension climatologist Pat Guinan.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Shopping at farmers markets is a great way to get healthy fruits, vegetables and other foods while supporting local farmers, says Londa Nwadike, University of Missouri Extension food safety specialist.
You train hard, learn about the latest techniques and make sure your equipment is top-notch.
UNION, Mo. – Spring can be a great time to hit reset in multiple facets of life. Many think about cleaning up a messy space in their home or refreshing their natural spaces. Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home but also can be for your mind, body and spirit.
• Create a list of short- and long-…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Financial insecurity, housing conditions and other social factors can have a significant impact on health. Community health workers (CHWs)—front-line public health workers who are trusted members of the communities they serve—are positioned to address social determinants of health…
Every year more than 600,000 Americans experience a stroke. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in adults. Like heart attacks, brain attacks can be preventable, and quick treatment can reduce death and disability.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – For many, the peace and quiet of country living is the American dream. But that dream can turn to a nightmare for those who become isolated and disconnected from their communities, says University of Missouri Extension safety and health specialist Karen Funkenbusch.
University of Missouri Extension Wright County Engagement Specialist Janice Weddle and University of Missouri Extension Douglas County Engagement Specialist Dr.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Telehealth is a treatment option that is becoming more common for rural Missourians seeking mental health help, says Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist.
HIGGINSVILLE, Mo. - Sleep is as important to a child’s growth and development as nutritious food and exercise.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Contrary to popular belief, the average American only gains about a pound over the holiday season. But that extra pound usually stays with us. Year after year, those pounds add up, increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Everywhere we look we see new, great protein-boosted drinks and foods. But how much protein is really needed, and do Americans get enough or too much?
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Holding a grudge or feeling guilty can keep you from enjoying all that life has to offer.
BETHANY, Mo. – Deer hunters may come home with more than trophy antlers this hunting season. Adult deer ticks are most prevalent in the fall as they make a last-ditch effort to find a warm home before winter.
CARTHAGE, Mo. – Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day. However, the way you use those hours can mean the difference between getting important things done and just doing tasks.
MARSHFIELD, Mo. – Before you grab that snow shovel to clear your sidewalk or driveway, stop to go over some safety tips, said a University of Missouri Extension natural resource engineering specialist.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The new University of Missouri System Health Care Finder aims to increase Missourians’ access to health care and boost the state’s health care outcomes.
Vaccines are safe and effective tools for preventing the spread of diseases that are shared person to person. The American Association of Immunologists reminds us that each August we celebrate National Immunization Awareness Month to let everyone know which vaccines to get and how often. Some shots…
BUTLER, Mo. – It won’t be long before pint-sized Princess Elsas, Star Wars characters and Minions run through neighborhoods threatening tricks and demanding treats.Halloween doesn’t have to be a complete sugar-overload holiday. There are simple things that parents can do to keep it fun and healthy.
LAMAR, Mo. — Selecting the right sunscreen involves more than picking the product with highest SPF number, notes a University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.“Many of us use sunscreen, but the options can be confusing,” said Tammy Roberts.
MARSHFIELD, Mo.– While you wait for the spring thaw, consider testing your home for harmful radon gas, says Bob Schultheis, a University of Missouri Extension natural resource engineering specialist.
COLUMBIA, Mo. - Therapists and counselors have used equine-assisted therapy to help people with learning, physical and behavioral problems. Now it's being used to help cancer survivors cope with the challenges and fears they face after treatment.
This month we feature Sue Robison, county engagement specialist in Carroll County, with Bret Lyon and Kathy Lock of the Carroll County YMCA.