Clean expired remedies out and know what to keep

FROM CONSUMERAFFAIRS.COM

The American College of Emergency Physicians is urging consumers to use the New Year as an opportunity to clean out and then restock their medicine cabinets.

Like food in a refrigerator, medicine cabinet supplies pile up. Those supplies can often expire and are not recommended for use anymore.

“You should do this once a year, at least,” said Dr. Nick Jouriles, President of ACEP. “A year’s worth of showers and baths create heat and humidity that can cause some drugs to lose potency. It’s good to get rid of them and replace them if they need to be replaced.”

FOR THE COMPLETE STORY: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/medicine_cabinet.html

~Sandy G.

Owner of this graphic: Alecia Patrick at Glitter Graphics 

~Sandy G.

Best ways to stay healthy on a budget

FROM CONSUMERAFFAIRS.COM

With a new year often comes a new resolution to eat better and make healthier choices. But as the economy continues to struggle, many parents are left wondering how to provide healthy food options while shopping on a budget.

Although nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are often more costly than less healthful options, there are ways families can pull the purse strings tighter without compromising on nutrition.

“Even though many families will be shopping on a budget in the new year, nutrition doesn’t necessarily have to come in second place to price,” said Robert Murray, MD, director of the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “Parents need to look at what they’re paying for and determine if there are less costly ways to achieve the same nutritional benefits.”

FOR THE COMPLETE STORY:   http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/12/2009_eating_right.html 

~Sandy G.