Month: February 2025

Food Connects Us: Celebrating National Nutrition Month 2025

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girl giving her dad a cherry tomato while cooking

March is National Nutrition Month®, an annual initiative by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics designed to highlight the importance of informed food choices and healthy lifestyle habits. This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” emphasizes how nutrition not only fuels our bodies but also brings people together, fostering cultural appreciation, social connection, and overall well-being.

The State of Nutrition in the U.S.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health, yet many Americans struggle with diet-related health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 42% of adults in the U.S. are classified as obese, a condition linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (CDC, 2023). Poor dietary habits, combined with a lack of physical activity, contribute to this growing public health challenge.

The impact of nutrition goes beyond individual health; it affects communities, economies, and healthcare systems. Studies indicate that diet-related chronic diseases account for approximately $173 billion in annual medical costs in the U.S. By focusing on healthier eating habits and regular physical activity, we can reduce these risks and improve overall quality of life.

Healthy Eating Habits for a Better Life

Improving nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, sustainable changes can make a significant impact. Here are some practical tips to incorporate better eating habits into daily life:

  1. Emphasize Whole Foods: Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats over processed foods.
  2. Practice Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes to avoid overeating, even with healthy foods.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for digestion, metabolism, and overall bodily function. Aim for at least 8 cups a day.
  4. Plan and Prepare Meals: Cooking at home allows for better control over ingredients and portion sizes.
  5. Reduce Added Sugars and Sodium: Excessive sugar and salt intake can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
  6. Listen to Your Body: Eat when hungry and stop when full, practicing intuitive eating rather than restrictive dieting.

The Role of Physical Activity

Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and boosts mental health.

The Social and Cultural Power of Food

This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” highlights the way meals bring families, friends, and communities together. Across cultures, food traditions are a means of storytelling, heritage preservation, and community bonding. Whether it’s sharing a home-cooked meal, participating in a community garden, or exploring new cuisines, food fosters social connections that contribute to mental and emotional well-being.

Taking Action This National Nutrition Month®

National Nutrition Month® is a great opportunity to evaluate personal eating habits and make positive changes. Here are a few ways to get involved:

  • Join Local Events: Many communities host nutrition workshops, cooking demonstrations, and health screenings.
  • Try a New Healthy Recipe: Experimenting with nutrient-rich ingredients can make healthy eating enjoyable.
  • Encourage Workplace Wellness: Advocate for healthier food options and wellness programs at work.
  • Educate Others: Share resources and knowledge to help family and friends make informed food choices.

By prioritizing nutrition and embracing the power of food to connect us, we can build healthier, stronger communities. This March, take small steps toward better nutrition and well-being—because when we eat well, we live well.

More From Uncas Health District

Eating Disorders: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

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February 24–28 marks National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a time to shed light on the seriousness of eating disorders, their devastating health effects, and the importance of early intervention. Eating disorders are serious and potentially fatal illnesses that profoundly impact a person’s physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life. They are more than just an obsession with food or weight — they are complex conditions influenced by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

The Dangers of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Some of the most serious consequences include:

  • Heart Problems: Malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances can cause irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, and even sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic purging, excessive dieting, or binge eating can lead to stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and severe constipation.
  • Bone and Muscle Loss: A lack of proper nutrition weakens bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
  • Mental Health Struggles: Eating disorders often coexist with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Multi-Organ Failure: In extreme cases, prolonged malnutrition can lead to failure of vital organs, making eating disorders among the deadliest mental health disorders.

Recognizing the Signs in Yourself or Others

Early detection is key to successful recovery. If you notice any of the following behaviors in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to seek professional help:

  • Extreme preoccupation with food, calories, dieting, or body image.
  • Skipping meals, eating in secret, or extreme food restrictions.
  • Frequent episodes of binge eating, often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame.
  • Compensatory behaviors like excessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, or misuse of laxatives.
  • Noticeable weight fluctuations or dramatic weight loss.
  • Mood swings, withdrawal from social activities, or an increased focus on controlling food.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, seeking professional help is crucial. Recovery is possible with the right support system, which may include therapy, medical intervention, and nutritional counseling. Organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) provide invaluable resources, including hotlines, support groups, and treatment options.

This National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let’s destigmatize eating disorders, encourage open conversations, and advocate for early intervention. If you recognize any warning signs, don’t hesitate to seek help — because everyone deserves a healthy relationship with food and their body.

 

More Content from Uncas Health District

 

Got the Flu? Recognizing Symptoms and Stopping the Spread

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woman on bed with high fever

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a serious illness that can have significant health impacts, especially for vulnerable populations. By taking preventive measures — such as getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals — you can reduce your risk of infection and protect those around you.

Understanding how to prevent, recognize, and manage the flu is crucial for maintaining public health and minimizing its spread.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms

The flu often comes on suddenly and can include symptoms such as:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Headaches

Some people, particularly children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. However, these gastrointestinal symptoms are less common in adults.

What to Do If You Have the Flu

If you develop flu symptoms, taking immediate steps can help you recover and prevent spreading the illness to others.

Stay Home – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever subsides without the use of fever-reducing medications (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen). Avoid going out except for medical care or other necessities.

Rest and Stay Hydrated – Get plenty of rest and drink fluids like water, herbal teas, and broths to help your body recover and prevent dehydration.

Practice Good Hygiene – Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Preventing the Spread of the Flu

Preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and spreading influenza:

Get Vaccinated – The annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from influenza. The vaccine is updated each year to target the most likely circulating strains. Everyone aged 6 months and older should get vaccinated, especially high-risk individuals.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene – Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces.

Avoid Close Contact – If you are sick, limit close contact with others, and avoid large gatherings during flu season. If you are healthy, maintain distance from individuals who are visibly ill.

Disinfect Surfaces – Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and electronic devices, to reduce the spread of germs.

Wear a Mask if Necessary – If you need to be around others while sick, wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of flu viruses. Masks are particularly important in crowded or poorly ventilated settings.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most flu cases resolve with rest and home care, some symptoms may indicate a more serious illness requiring medical attention. Seek emergency medical care if you or a loved one experiences:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent chest pain or pressure
  • Sudden dizziness or confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Symptoms that improve but then return with worsening fever and cough

High-risk individuals, such as young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), should consult a healthcare provider promptly if flu symptoms develop.

 

More Flu Information from Uncas Health District

RECALL ALERT: Gerber ‘Soothe N Chew’ Teething Sticks Recalled for Choking Hazard

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Gerber Products Company is initiating a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children.

GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS were distributed nationwide via the internet and to distribution centers and retail stores in the following states and territories: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI and Puerto Rico.

Recalled products can be identified as follows:

  • GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE
    Net Wt 3.2 Oz (90g) with UPC 0 15000 04618 7
    all lot codes
    Gerber Soothne n Chew Teething Sticks - Strawberry Apple
  • GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA
    Net Wt 3.2 Oz (90g), with UPC 0 15000 04608 8
    all lot codes
    Gerber Soothe n Chew Teething Sticks - Banana 3.2 oz
  • GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA
    Net Wt 1.59 Oz (45g), with UPC 0 15000 01015 7
    all lot codes
    Soothe n Chew Teething Sticks Box - Banana - 1.58 oz

This recall and discontinuation is isolated to GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE and GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA. 

The recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints of choking incidents. To date, one emergency room visit has been reported.

Consumers who may have purchased GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS should not feed this product to their child and can return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a refund. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a health care provider. For any additional support needed, Gerber is available 24/7 at 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237).

Gerber is working with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) on this recall and will cooperate with them fully.

Gerber sincerely apologizes for any concern or inconvenience this action represents to parents, caregivers and retail customers.

More FDA Recalls

Stay Informed About Bird Flu: What You Need to Know

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basket of eggs with chickens nearby

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can occasionally spread to humans. While the current risk to the general public remains low, it’s important to stay informed and take simple precautions to protect yourself and your community.

What Is Bird Flu?

Bird flu is caused by influenza viruses that naturally occur in wild birds, such as ducks, geese, and swans. These viruses can sometimes spread to domestic poultry, like chickens and turkeys, and, in rare cases, to humans. While most strains of bird flu don’t infect people, certain types, such as H5N1 and H7N9, have caused serious illness in humans.

How Can You Stay Safe?

The good news is that there are easy steps you can take to reduce your risk of exposure to bird flu:

  1. Avoid Contact with Sick or Dead Birds
    Never touch sick or dead wild birds. If you encounter one, report it to local wildlife authorities. Wild birds can carry the virus without showing symptoms, so it’s best to keep your distance.
  2. Be Cautious Around Poultry
    Avoid contact with sick poultry or birds that appear unwell. If you work with or care for poultry, practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands thoroughly after handling birds or their environments. For more tips on protecting poultry, visit the USDA’s Defend the Flock Program.
  3. Cook Poultry and Eggs Thoroughly
    Properly cooking poultry and eggs kills the bird flu virus and other harmful bacteria. Ensure that poultry reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and that eggs are cooked until both the yolk and white are firm.

Why Is Awareness Important?

While the risk to humans is currently low, bird flu viruses can mutate and potentially spread more easily between people. Staying informed and taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of outbreaks and protect both human and animal health.

Stay Updated

For the latest information on bird flu, including updates on outbreaks and safety guidelines, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

By staying aware and taking simple precautions, we can all play a role in preventing the spread of bird flu. Stay safe, stay informed, and share this knowledge with others to help keep your community healthy!

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Detected in New London County