While the changing of seasons makes living in Pure Michigan idyllic, fall and winter can also bring a hidden danger with them. This time of year, we too often read or hear the sad news of someone suffering or dying from carbon monoxide poisoning.

What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (or CO) is an odorless, invisible gas that can kill you or make you very sick. The longer your exposure to CO, the more concentrated and deadly it becomes.

Where is carbon monoxide found?

Read full article

You can't escape it! Every day we are bombarded with the "latest and greatest" diet trends, each claiming to provide amazing, and more often, unrealistic results. With 71% of Americans overweight or obese it's no wonder that the "weighty" business of weight loss has swelled to a $66.3 billion industry. But with all this money being thrown towards the diet du jour, why aren't people losing weight?! It turns out, many are, but not from a one-size-fits-all approach.

Read full article

Does it take a lot more than Marvin Gaye and a dozen roses to get you “in the mood?” Loss of sexual desire is common in women, especially those who are approaching (or are already in) menopause. In fact, research shows that at least 30 to 50 percent of women experience some sort of sexual dysfunction.

So what gives? For one, changing hormones can cause your spontaneous desire to free fall. A quick lowdown on the hormones that can affect your sex drive: 

Read full article

A sinus infection (sinusitis) occurs when viruses or bacteria infect or inflame the sinuses (often during a cold). Our body’s response causes the sinus lining to swell, trapping fluids in the sinuses and allowing germs to grow. Mucus and pus fill up the nose and sinus cavities causing significant congestion, pain and pressure in the face, head or around the eyes.  

The cdc.gov provides a nice illustration of healthy sinuses and the blocked regions here.

Read full article

It’s time to get back in the groove and hustle that comes with the start of a new school year.

Between homework, extra-curricular activities and earlier bedtime routines, packing lunches can become a chore, but here are a few quick, easy and healthy ideas for lunches that even the pickiest eaters will love.

Read full article

Yes, it's true; the new school year is just a couple of short weeks away. The last day of summer may be September 22 on the calendar, but for kids and teens the end of summer is when school begins again.

The start of a new school year can be stressful for both kids and their parents. This year, be prepared. Start transitioning now with these tips:

Read full article

Work deadlines ... family responsibilities ... Instagram and Facebook feeds ... jogging, walking or taking the stairs ... visiting your out-of-state relatives ... hosting your book club ... channeling your inner green thumb. You lead a busy, active and fulfilling life.

So why sweat it if you lose a little sleep?

Read full article

As an athlete or active person, there is a good chance you have at least heard about or even experienced IT band syndrome. It is a common injury that can largely be prevented with the right knowledge and actions.

Read full article

Living along the lakeshore brings a myriad of benefits – spectacular sunsets, boating, fishing, naps on the beach and cooling off in the lake on a hot summer’s day, just to name a few.

Thousands of residents and tourists flock to Holland every summer attracted by our pristine waterways and alluring beaches.

Read full article