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Uncas Health District

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

 

Cancer Prevention Month: Taking Action to Reduce Your Risk

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woman eating healthy after exercising

Every February, Cancer Prevention Month serves as a reminder that while cancer remains a formidable health challenge, many cases are preventable through lifestyle choices and proactive health measures. With an estimated 2 million Americans diagnosed with cancer (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) in 2024 and more than 600,000 cancer-related deaths, the urgency for awareness and prevention has never been greater.

The Preventable Nature of Cancer

Research indicates that more than 40% of cancer cases and nearly half of cancer-related deaths stem from preventable causes. These include smoking, excessive body weight, physical inactivity, and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This means that by making informed choices, individuals can significantly lower their cancer risk.

Proactive Steps to Lower Cancer Risk

  1. Quit Smoking (or Never Start) Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable cancer. Smoking is directly linked to lung, throat, mouth, pancreas, and several other cancers. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your health. If you don’t smoke, avoiding secondhand smoke is equally important.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Weight Obesity is associated with increased risks of several cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, coupled with portion control, can help maintain a healthy weight.
  3. Stay Physically Active Regular exercise not only helps control weight but also reduces inflammation, regulates hormone levels, and boosts the immune system—all factors that can lower cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
  4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun Skin cancer, including melanoma, is largely preventable. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear protective clothing, and avoid indoor tanning. Limiting direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), is also key.
  5. Get Vaccinated Certain cancers are caused by infections. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can prevent cervical, throat, and other cancers, while the hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver cancer.
  6. Limit Alcohol Consumption Excessive alcohol intake is linked to an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast. Moderation is key—guidelines recommend no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
  7. Get Regular Screenings and Checkups Early detection saves lives. Routine screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears can detect cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Consult your doctor about recommended screenings based on your age, family history, and lifestyle.

The Bigger Cancer Prevention Picture

Many diagnosed cancers in the U.S. are considered preventable. While not all can be avoided, taking proactive steps can dramatically reduce risk and improve overall health. This Cancer Prevention Month, commit to small, meaningful changes that can lead to a longer, healthier life.

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

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backyard chickens and ducks

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) advises that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, or bird flu, was confirmed in a backyard flock in New London County on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. The backyard flock, consisting of chickens, ducks, and peacocks, were family pets, not commercial poultry, and had close contact with wild waterfowl in a nearby pond.

Samples were sent to the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) for testing. The results from CVMDL were then confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. H5N1 is highly contagious among domestic poultry, and at this time, there is no effective treatment or approved vaccine for the virus in poultry. The infected flock has been depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease.

“Collaboration between state and federal partners is essential in preventing the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry and safeguarding the health of our farmworkers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Through a united approach, we are able to swiftly identify and respond to protect our food supply and ensure the health of our communities.”

All poultry owners and producers are advised to enhance biosecurity protocols to protect their backyard and commercial poultry flocks against H5N1.

“Biosecurity is the best defense for a flock owner to protect their birds from disease,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Thamus Morgan, DVM, MPH, DACVPM. “This should be top of mind for commercial and backyard hobby owners – we must all work together – to reduce the risk.”

Biosecurity Tips

Poultry biosecurity materials and checklists are on the USDA’s Defend the Flock website. Best practices include:

  • Keep wild birds and rodents out of poultry houses and coops.
  • Don’t let poultry have contact with migratory waterfowl or other wild birds.
  • Wash hands and boots before and after entering the poultry area.
  • Buy birds from reputable sources to receive healthy birds.
  • Restrict traffic onto and off your property.
  • Have a written biosecurity plan in place.

Signs of H5N1 infection include a sudden increase in bird deaths, sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, watery or green diarrhea, lack of energy, poor appetite, drop in egg production, swelling around the eyes, neck, and head, and purple discoloration of wattles, combs, and legs.

Flock owners are encouraged to report anything unusual, incredibly sick, or dead birds to CT DoAg at 860-713-2505 or ctstate.vet@ct.gov or the USDA at 866-536-7593.

Human Risk Remains Low

No person-to-person spread of H5N1 has been detected to date, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to assess the risk to the general public as low. Residents are reminded that properly handling and cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165°F kills bacteria and viruses. No H5N1 virus detections in Connecticut have occurred to date in people, livestock, or other domestic animals. However, H5N1 continues to be detected sporadically in wild birds. Surveillance for cases in humans and animals is ongoing throughout the state.

“The current risk of infection from H5N1 to residents of Connecticut remains low.  While we have no evidence of human-to-human transmission at this time, we need to remain vigilant,” said Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD.  “The CDC is currently monitoring numerous H5N1 cases throughout the country and tracking the spread of the virus in states where it has been identified in people or animals.

Read the DoAg Press Release Here

DMHAS, DPH Launch Toolkit for Help Facilities Treat Opioid Use Disorder

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Person receiving support for opioid use disorder

The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) have introduced a new resource to help long-term care facilities (LTCFs) better serve residents with opioid use disorder (OUD). The Strategies for Supporting Residents with Opioid Use Disorder in Long-Term Care toolkit provides a roadmap for delivering trauma-informed, recovery-oriented care to individuals with OUD.

The toolkit focuses on equipping LTCFs with best practices for addressing the unique challenges associated with OUD, including stigma reduction, staff training, harm reduction strategies, and partnerships with community-based resources. Healthcentric Advisors, a nationally recognized non-profit healthcare quality improvement consultancy, has been providing education, technical assistance, and project management services to DMHAS and DPH on the development and implementation of the toolkit over the past year.

“This toolkit gives long-term care providers the tools to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to individuals living with OUD.  Integration of behavioral health and long-term care will mitigate stigma and improve health outcomes for individuals living with a substance use disorder,” said DMHAS Commissioner Nancy Navarretta.

“With the opioid crisis impacting more individuals living in long-term care facilities, this toolkit delivers essential guidance to ensure facilities are prepared to support their residents living with OUD,” added DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “By prioritizing person-centered care, we can improve outcomes and foster recovery.”

Upcoming Webinar

DMHAS and DPH will host a webinar on January 22, 2025, to provide an overview of the toolkit and practical tips for implementation. Registration is open at this link.

Toolkit Availability

The Strategies for Supporting Residents with Opioid Use Disorder in Long-Term Care toolkit is available for download at this link. For additional resources, visit the DMHAS or DPH websites.

Additional Resources from Uncas Health District

DPH Stresses Importance of Radon Testing During Winter Months

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In recognition of National Radon Action Month, which takes place in January, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) urges Connecticut residents to test their homes for radon gas, the leading environmental cause of cancer deaths.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. However, experts say smokers exposed to radon do have a much higher risk for developing lung cancer.

A naturally occurring, radioactive gas formed from the natural decay of uranium, radon is found in rock, soil, and water. While radon in outdoor air poses a relatively low risk to human health, it can enter homes from the surrounding soil or from well water and become an indoor air health hazard.

“Radon is a silent killer.  It is tasteless, odorless, and cannot be seen, leaving people unaware that it could be in their homes.  Testing indoor air for radon and reducing elevated levels is important and could save your life or the lives of your loved ones,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD.

 

Graphic of a house with rooms sectioned out showing how radon enters the house. It enters through the soil at 3 points, through bedrock at one point, and through groundwater at one point in this diagram

The DPH Radon Program recommends that Connecticut residents test the air in their homes every two years. Testing homes for radon is recommended during the winter months and is simple and inexpensive. To support radon awareness, in 2024, DPH provided approximately 2,780 free radon test kits to 36 local health department partners for distribution.

Learn How to Get Your Free Radon Kit from Uncas Health District Here

Test kits can also be purchased from local home improvement or hardware stores or online from the American Lung Association by visiting their Radon Test Kit Store.

The EPA suggests fixing your home if it has high levels of radon gas (4.0 pCi/L or higher) to reduce the risk of lung cancer. If your home has medium levels of radon gas (between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L), you might want to fix this problem to lower your chance of getting lung cancer.  Mitigation is easy, effective, and can be relatively inexpensive.

Radon levels can be reduced by hiring nationally certified radon mitigation professionals.  For a list of nationally certified radon mitigation specialists or to learn more about radon, please visit www.ct.gov/RadonPros.

Recall Alert: Mochi Sorbet Product Recalled for Egg Content

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The Mochi Ice Cream Company LLC, Vernon, California, is recalling 1350 cases of Peach Mango Sorbet because it may contain undeclared pasteurized cooked egg white. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.

My Mochi Peach Mango Sorbet was distributed nationwide through retail stores.

The product can be identified by the My Mochi brand and the flavor of Peach Mango. The product is in an orange 6-count box weighing 7.5 oz, in the freezer section with lots of 337-24 and 341-24 marked on the box.

There have been 2 reports of minor allergic response reported.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing (pasteurized egg white) was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of (the egg white). Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging processes.

Consumers who have purchased My Mochi Peach Mango Sorbet with lots 337-24 & 341-24 are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-844-696-6244.

See More Active Food Safety Recalls