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Tag: nutrition

  • Trump signs bill allowing whole milk to return to school lunches

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    Whole milk is heading back to school cafeterias across the country after President Trump signed a bill Wednesday overturning Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk options. 

    Nondairy drinks such as fortified soy milk may also be on the menu in the coming months following the adoption of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which cleared Congress in the fall.

    The action allows schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and 2% fat milk, along with the skim and low-fat products required since 2012.

    “Whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican, whole milk is a great thing,” Mr. Trump said at a White House signing ceremony that featured lawmakers, dairy farmers and their children.

    The law also permits schools to serve nondairy milk that meets the nutritional standards of milk and requires schools to offer a nondairy milk alternative if kids provide a note from their parents, not just from doctors, saying they have a dietary restriction.

    President Trump touches a container of milk as he speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, in Washington.

    Alex Brandon / AP


    The signing comes days after the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which emphasize consumption of full-fat dairy products as part of a healthy diet. Previous editions advised that consumers older than 2 should consume low-fat or fat-free dairy.

    Earlier this week, the Agriculture Department sent a social media post showing Mr. Trump with a glass of milk and a “milk mustache” that declared: “Drink Whole Milk.”

    The change could take effect as soon as this fall, though school nutrition and dairy industry officials said it may take longer for some schools to gauge demand for full-fat dairy and adjust supply chains.

    “The long wait is over! Whole milk is coming back to schools! This law is a win for our children, parents, and school nutrition leaders, giving schools the flexibility to offer the flavored and unflavored milk options, across all healthy fat levels, that meet students’ needs and preferences,” said Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association.

    Long sought by the dairy industry, the return of whole and 2% milk to school meals reverses provisions of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act championed by former first lady Michelle Obama. Enacted more than a dozen years ago, the law aimed to slow obesity and boost health by cutting kids’ consumption of saturated fat and calories in higher-fat milk.

    Nutrition experts, lawmakers and the dairy industry have argued whole milk is a delicious, nutritious food that has been unfairly vilified, and that some studies suggest kids who drink it are less likely to develop obesity than those who drink lower-fat options. Critics have also said many children don’t like the taste of lower-fat milk and don’t drink it, leading to missed nutrition and food waste.

    The new rules will change meals served to about 30 million students enrolled in the National School Lunch Program.

    Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. described the new law as “a long-overdue correction to school nutrition policy.” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said it fixed Michelle Obama’s “short-sighted campaign to ditch whole milk.”

    Schools will be required to provide students with a range of fluid milk options, which can now include flavored and unflavored organic or conventional whole milk, 2%, 1% and lactose-free milk, as well as non-dairy options that meet nutrition standards.

    The new dietary guidelines call for “full-fat dairy with no added sugars,” which would preclude chocolate- and strawberry-flavored milks allowed under a recent update of school meal standards. Agriculture officials will have to translate that recommendation into specific requirements for schools to eliminate flavored milks.

    The new law exempts milk fat from being considered as part of federal requirements that average saturated fats make up less than 10% of calories in school meals.

    One top nutrition expert, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian of Tufts University, has said there is “no meaningful benefit” in choosing low-fat over high-fat dairy. Saturated fatty acids in dairy have a different composition than other fat, such as beef fat, plus different beneficial compounds that could offset theoretical harms, he added.

    “Saturated fat in dairy has not been linked to any adverse health outcomes,” Mozaffarian said in an interview.

    Research has shown that changes in the federal nutrition program after the Obama-era law was enacted slowed the rise in obesity among U.S. kids, including teenagers. 

    But some nutrition experts point to newer research that suggests kids who drink whole milk could be less likely to be overweight or to develop obesity than children who drink lower-fat milk. One 2020 review of 28 studies suggests that the risk was 40% less for kids who drank whole milk, although the authors noted they couldn’t say whether milk consumption was the reason.

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  • A look at what you should be putting in your grocery cart after the recent food pyramid changes – WTOP News

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    WTOP talked with a local nutritionist and a physician about what this means and whether you should adapt your diet.

    Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently unveiled a new food pyramid that prioritized proteins and healthy fats.

    But what does this mean for you and your diet?

    “We see that there’s an emphasis on whole and minimally processed foods, and that really is a welcome shift away from decades of more nutrient-focused messaging,” said Patti Truant Anderson, policy director at the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future.

    She said the focus of the new food pyramid moves away from added preservatives and toward fruits and veggies.

    “We see that fruits and vegetables are prominently in the new food pyramid, which aligns with evidence-based dietary patterns, which we know help people live longer,” she said.

    But there are parts of the new pyramid she thinks people should pay attention to. This includes the added emphasis on protein and meat.

    “I think that there are some aspects that may be misleading to consumers when you look just at the new food pyramid, compared to the actual guidelines,” Truant Anderson said.

    She said the big focus on meat and dairy products might be confusing to some.

    “How do you increase your protein content without increasing your saturated fat content too much? And it is possible, but you have to be really careful about that, and focus more on the plant-based and seafood sources of protein,” Truant Anderson said.

    Dr. Ashanti Woods, an attending pediatrician at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, said you should be paying attention to what the inversion of the pyramid means for you and your family.

    “We’re looking down the road and, ultimately, have a goal of keeping our children healthy,” he said.

    He said he liked that the new pyramid encouraged a diversity of foods.

    “We want families to consider a plate that has a little bit of everything on it. We want children to explore. We want families to take their children with them shopping to the grocery store so that children can pick out certain foods and give it a try,” he said.

    Woods said one of the biggest changes when it comes to the food pyramid is the goal for daily protein intake. Currently, the recommendation is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

    “It’s now been increased to 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein a day, essentially doubling it. While we don’t think children should be eating, consuming, a lot of anything, protein included, we do think that there are some benefits to children eating lean protein,” he said.

    And Woods said the healthiest habits come not only from watching what you eat but, “anywhere from three to five days of good exercise in the work week, and good exercise to us is anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of activity that involves sweating.”

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    Valerie Bonk

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  • Plasma: The Functional, Natural Miracle Ingredient for Dogs and Cats! | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Spoil and support pets with food, treats, and supplements featuring plasma: It’s tasty, healthy, and natural!

    When buying pet food, treats, and supplements, modern pet parents don’t just look for quality ingredients or complete and balanced nutrition. They also place emphasis on things like functional ingredients with health benefits. Plasma is a clean, natural, and highly digestible nutrient source that stands out as a functional ingredient because it benefits health and helps the planet. Learn more about plasma, how it supports whole-body health, and great products that feature it.

    Plasma Supports Human Health and Pet Health

    Plasma is the liquid component of blood. So when you donate blood, you’re giving plasma, a life-saving gift used around the world every day to help people survive and thrive. And just like plasma supports human health, so too can it play a meaningful role in pet health and nutrition. Plasma sourced from pigs and cattle is collected and dried, preserving the amino acids, nutrients, bioactive compounds, and highly digestible proteins. It’s a tasty, functional ingredient that can be added to pet foods, treats, and supplements to support vitality, well-being, and everyday health.

    Adding Plasma to a Dog’s or Cat’s Diet Is Good for the Whole Body

    Plasma about 70% to 80% protein, so you can see right away one of the main benefits for dogs and cats. Four-legged family members rely on protein-rich diets to build and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormones, and support overall growth, function, and energy. Beyond that, plasma also contains a myriad of other beneficial compounds, including:

    • Amino acids
    • Electrolytes
    • Minerals
    • Antibodies
    • Immunoglobulins
    • Bioactive peptides
    • Growth factors

    Together, these compounds have a systemic effect, supporting the immune system and its ability to respond to stress and inflammation. They also help with digestive health, the gut microbiome, nutrient absorption, muscle development, skin and coat health, and energy levels.

    What’s more, plasma is a valuable byproduct of meat processing. Reclaiming plasma from the meat industry reduces waste, minimizes environmental impacts, and supports a more efficient food system.

    Easy Ways to Add Plasma to Your Dog’s or Cat’s Diet

    Plasma is a powerful, natural, sustainable ingredient that supports canine and feline health at every life stage. It delivers essential nutrients, helps manage stress and inflammation, supports immunity, and promotes overall vitality, keeping dogs and cats active, resilient, and thriving. When you add food, treats, and supplements with plasma to their diet, you’re supporting whole-body health for them and helping the planet too.

    Visit APC to learn more about plasma for pet health!

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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • Here’s how to still eat healthy at the airport and on a plane

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    Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he’d like airlines to start serving something other than pretzels and buttery cookies.

    “I would love some better snacks,” Duffy told the conservative news site Blaze Media on Tuesday. “I would love a little healthier snack on the airplane.”

    Most airlines no longer serve free meals, but they do still hand out snack food and juice, soda and coffee to passengers. American Airlines, the biggest airline operating out of Philadelphia International Airport, gives people a choice between small bags of pretzels and packages of Biscoff cookies — or both.

    Pretzels may be convenient, but they are generally low in nutrients, high in sodium and are made with refined carbs that leave people unsated and ready to snack again soon.

    Biscoff cookies are high in added sugars and saturated fat – although they do not contain trans fats and have lower calorie and saturated fat contents compared with Oreos and Chips Ahoy! cookies.

    Duffy made his complaint as a passing comment, not as part of an official policy change, according to the New York Times. But his remarks spark the question: How can people eat healthier when flying?

    Here are some tips:

    Go nuts

    Many airlines no longer serve peanuts or peanut products due to allergies, but some carriers still offer other types of nuts. While salted varieties present sodium concerns for people with high blood pressure and other medical issues, nuts are high in protein. If available and allergies are not a concern, choose the nuts. 

    Drink up

    Due to low humidity levels in airline cabins, people are at risk of getting dehydrated during flights, so drinking lots of water before, during and after flying is key, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Hydrating well can also help mitigate jet lag and fatigue. The general rule of thumb is 8 ounces of water for every hour of flight, according to AARP.

    Stay away from alcoholic and caffeinated drinks because they can disrupt sleep, which may already be hard to come by on flights. Also, caffeine is a stimulant, so anxious travelers should avoid it, Condé Nast Traveler advises.

    Carbonated drinks may also cause burping and flatulence, unpleasant for the consumer and fellow travelers, AARP warns.

    BYO

    The best and least expensive bet for eating healthy in the airport and on the plane is to bring your own food.

    Registered dietitian Andy De Santis recently told the Healthy that he packs chicken sandwiches on whole-grain bread — a fiber-protein combo — when he flies.

    Other high-protein foods, such as greek yogurt, flaxseed crackers and seeds, are also handy and healthy.

    Health editor Ally Head recently shared her home-packed travel snack selections with Marie Claire: a Tupperware container full of carrot, celery and other vegetable sticks, olives, cheese cubes, a spinach side salad and whole-grain carbs, such as pumpernickel bread.

    Condé Nast Traveler offers these tips for how to pack food for the plane:

    • Airlines generally allow people to bring solid food, such as snacks, dried fruit and sandwiches, in their carry-on luggage.

    • Don’t bring ice packs or frozen food.

    • Avoid wrapping food in aluminum foil because it can set off security alarms.

    • Liquids of 3.4-ounces or less are allowed through security.

    • Otherwise, pack an empty water bottle to drink from while waiting at the gate and to fill before a flight.

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    Courtenay Harris Bond

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  • Young people held at Pueblo detention facility aren’t getting enough food, parents allege

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    For the past few months, Emmanuel Porter-Taylor and other young men housed at Colorado’s Youthful Offender System detention facility in Pueblo have complained to their parents about being hungry.

    Meal portions seem to be getting smaller and smaller. The canteen, where incarcerated teens and young adults can buy snacks and other food items, is only reserved for those who have achieved higher privilege levels based on good behavior.

    Porter-Taylor lost 20 to 30 pounds in recent weeks, his mother told The Denver Post. His eyes began to yellow. He couldn’t keep water down. Staff gave him Tylenol and told him to sleep, his mother, Ivory Taylor, said in an interview.

    “Mom,” his mother said he told her last week, “I think they’re trying to kill me.”

    The 22-year-old ended up in the hospital, where doctors concluded that his condition was caused by malnutrition, according to his family. When Porter-Taylor was stable, the hospital released him back to the detention center with a referral to see a kidney specialist as soon as possible. Doctors also said he needed to double his daily food intake, the family said.

    Administrators at the state’s facility for young violent offenders said he’d have to wait six months to see a specialist, the family said. He was not given additional food.

    On Sunday, Porter-Taylor was rushed back to the hospital, suffering from full renal failure, according to a letter sent by a juvenile justice advocate to a state senator. He was flown the following day from Pueblo to a Denver hospital.

    His family, though, says they have no idea how he’s doing because the Colorado Department of Corrections reported they couldn’t find his “release of information” document, emails show. The family knows they filled it out.

    “I want him to pay his debts and get out alive,” Taylor said of her son, who isn’t eligible for parole for two more years. “I don’t want to bury my 22-year-old kid.”

    Parents say they’re worried their kids could be next. Ten mothers told The Post this week that they have watched their boys lose concerning amounts of weight over the past few months, as they complain about the lack of sufficient food at the 256-bed facility. Some have yellowing in their eyes. Others have fainted, become dizzy or found blood in their stool.

    These accounts led a juvenile justice organization, the National Center for Youth Law, to sound the alarm and alert Colorado lawmakers and state corrections officials.

    “They don’t even treat prisoners of war like this,” said one of the mothers. All but Taylor spoke to The Post on the condition of anonymity because they fear reprisal against their children.

    A spokesperson with the Department of Corrections, which runs the Pueblo facility, declined to provide information on Porter-Taylor’s condition, citing federal and state privacy laws.

    The department has gradually decreased the calorie count provided to those housed in the YOS detention facility in recent years to align with federal guidelines, said Alondra Gonzalez, a DOC spokesperson. Food is never withheld as a punitive measure, she said.

    “All individuals in our custody receive appropriate food and medical care,” she wrote in a statement provided to The Post on Friday evening.

    ‘We hardly get anything’

    The Colorado legislature established the Youthful Offender System, known as YOS, in 1993 in response to Denver’s “summer of violence,” a period marked by heightened youth homicides. Senate Bill 93S-009 provided the state with a new “middle tier” sentencing option, where certain youth offenders could be sentenced as adults directly into YOS.

    These individuals “serve their sentence in a controlled and regimented environment that affirms dignity of self and others, promotes values of work and self-discipline, and develops useful skills and abilities through enriched programming,” corrections officials said in the 2024 YOS annual report.

    The facility, which only houses violent offenders, was originally designed for those between the ages of 14 and 17 at the time of their offense, though a 2009 bill expanded the eligibility criteria to include 18- and 19-year-olds. Sentences cannot be shorter than two years and cannot exceed six years.

    YOS touts a three-level model, designed to reward positive behavior. At level 3, individuals get unlimited visits and phone calls, video games, movies and free weights. They can also buy items such as deodorant or snacks from the canteen.

    But those at lower levels cannot purchase food from the canteen, nor can they receive food packages from their family.

    That leaves them reliant on prison meals that keep getting smaller and smaller, the parents who spoke to The Post said. Portions began to shrink a few months ago, these mothers said. One said entrees could fit in the palm of their hand.

    Breakfasts have included an English muffin and a sausage. Lunch could be beans with two tortillas. Dinner might consist of four mini corndogs and a cup of macaroni and cheese.

    “You feed our dog more than what we get on our plate,” another parent recounted their teen telling them this week. “We hardly get anything.”

    YOS menus provided to The Post by the Department of Corrections show a variety of different meals. One recent lunch included one slice of cheese pizza, a cup of tossed green salad with olives and croutons, one cup of canned fruit and one cup of punch. A recent dinner consisted of one cup of spinach lasagna, salad, a slice of Texas toast and peach crisp.

    Parents say their children’s weight loss has been extreme and noticeable. Many lost as many as 30 pounds in less than two months.

    Without the ability to send food through the mail or use their canteen funds, parents have been forced to feed their children as much as they can during in-person visits. That means relying on whatever the vending machine in the lobby has left. Sometimes, it’s nearly bare.

    “When you see a dog on the street that hasn’t eaten in a week,” a third mother told The Post, “that’s what he looked like.”

    One individual who was incarcerated at YOS until last month said he relied on the canteen to supplement their meals. Without it, “it would have been tough,” he said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because they’re still on probation and fear reprisal. Sometimes, those on higher levels would try and sneak food to their lower-level friends, he said, but they risked being demoted themselves.

    Recently, a group of 12 young people wrote a letter to leadership requesting more food, among other changes, one parent said. The boy who wrote the letter got put in solitary confinement, they said.

    Gonzalez, the DOC spokesperson, said the level system is a “standard correctional practice to promote positive behavior,” but that meals are never withheld as a punitive measure. The DOC is “reviewing the current phases to determine whether any adjustments are necessary.”

    Last month, another mother wrote a letter to the DOC, pleading with leadership to address the food shortage and punitive commissary policy.

    “Adequate nutrition is not a privilege,” this woman wrote in the letter, which was reviewed by The Post. “It is a fundamental necessity for health and rehabilitation.”

    The mother said DOC never replied.

    In response to inquiries from state Sen. Judy Amabile this week, a corrections official acknowledged that YOS did “reduce caloric intake” for inmates due to the agency’s dieticians and the Department of Human Services “agreeing that the average (body mass index) of YOS offenders was higher than what was considered healthy within the age group.”

    The average age of YOS offenders has risen over time, which means less caloric needs, Kayla Shock, the DOC’s legislative liaison, said in an email reviewed by The Post. If an individual requires additional calories, they will be assessed by the medical provider and provided an additional snack, she wrote.

    YOS data shows the average age inside the facility has increased to 19.1 years old in 2024 from 16.8 years old in 2007.

    During fiscal year 2022-2023, males in YOS received 3,200 calories per day, while females received 2,600 calories, Gonzalez said. Beginning in 2024-2025, those numbers dropped to 2,700 calories for men and 2,200 for women.

    Gonzalez said the agency changed its food allotments to align with federal standards updated every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. When these updates occur, she said, the state’s team of registered dietitians reviews the changes to ensure their menus are up to date.

    Amabile, a Boulder Democrat who has worked on juvenile justice bills, called the calorie reduction “surprising.”

    “If they’re cutting the number of calories that kids get every day — which includes people of different sizes — I would want to know: Is that healthier for them or is that a cost-cutting measure?” she said.

    ‘I don’t know if my son’s alive’

    Porter-Taylor’s biological mother and the woman who had been his legal guardian say they haven’t been able to get updates on their son’s condition.

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  • 7 Ways to Prevent Skin Problems in Dogs | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Skin problems in dogs are no match for regular grooming with natural botanical healing and grooming products. Check out these seven tips and say hello to skin and coat health!

    One of the most common challenges for dogs is skin and hair coat problems, like itching, hot spots, redness, dandruff, irritation, and hair coat loss. Allergies, infections, stress, nutrition, and other things can wreak havoc on a dog’s body. To address skin problems in dogs, you must treat the root cause and adopt a regular grooming routine. Today, we’ll cover seven tips that will help you nip these problems in the bud and tell you about essential oil-based healing and grooming products you should always keep on hand!

    1. Adopt a Regular Grooming Schedule

    Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed is one of the easiest ways to avoid skin problems. Regular brushing helps remove dirt, loose hair, and moisture that can lead to hot spots and fungal infections. For short-haired dogs, you can get away with brushing once or twice a week, but dogs with thick or long coats will likely require daily brushing.

    2. Dry Their Coat After Swimming or Bathing

    Moisture allows bacteria and fungi to grow, which can cause infections and irritation. Always dry your dog completely after baths, swimming, or rainy walks. And don’t forget to dry under the collar, behind the ears, between the toes, and under the legs.

    3. Learn the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Problems

    Itching, licking, redness, or a musty/yeasty odor are potential signs of an underlying skin issue. Catching these signs early can prevent them from developing into full-blown infections. If your dog is constantly scratching or licking one spot, inspect the area and talk to your veterinarian.

    4. Use Products That Are Formulated for Dogs

    Dogs have a different skin pH from other animals, which is why you generally shouldn’t use human shampoos or grooming products for them, unless your veterinarian recommends something specific. Instead, reach for Essential Canine’s naturally inspired grooming collection, crafted with gentle botanicals and pure essential oils that work in harmony with your dog’s skin and hair coat.

    5. Clean Their Bedding and Bowls Regularly

    Wash your dog’s bed/bedding every one to two weeks, clean food and water bowl daily, and vacuum often to reduce allergens, fungi, bacteria, and other irritants that can thrive in and around your dog’s stuff.

    6. Feed a Healthy Diet

    Good health starts with good nutrition. Feeding your dog a balanced diet rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, zinc, and protein can help maintain healthy skin and coat.

    7. Check in Regularly with Your Veterinarian

    Take your dog for a check-up anytime they develop new symptoms. Skin issues can indicate allergies, parasites, or more serious health concerns, and it’s important to address the root cause as well as the symptoms.

    Three Essential Products that Promote Skin and Coat Health Naturally!

    Tea-Pro® wound spray, TZōN® hot spot and wound cream, and Private Reserve shampoo from Essential Canine are essential oil-based healing and grooming products that support skin and coat health. Formulated by a Veterinarian for dogs to help prevent and manage hot spots, fungal flare-ups, and irritated skin, the products are powered by nature’s best healing agents:

    • Peppermint oil
    • Comfrey oil
    • Goldenseal oil
    • Myrrh oil
    • Aloe vera oil
    • Australian tea tree oil
    • Jojoba oil
    • Calendula oil

    These high-grade essential oils work in harmony to purify, soothe, and protect. They deliver powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritation, relieve discomfort, support natural healing, and promote a healthy, vibrant hair coat.
    Visit Essential Canine to learn more about how these potent botanicals can help you manage skin problems in dogs!


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • About 1 in 5 kids are at risk of losing SNAP. Centralized control keeps failing low-income families.

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    The federal government shutdown is disrupting major federal programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Now one in five children nationwide risks losing benefits because Congress has failed to pass a budget. On October 30, a federal judge ordered the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to draw from SNAP’s contingency fund to cover payments, but that fund holds roughly $5–6 billion—barely enough to cover three weeks of payments for a program that spends more than $8 billion each month. 

    The ongoing deadlock highlights SNAP’s fragility due to its near-total reliance on federal funding. More importantly, its chronic dependency on Washington’s one-size-fits-all solutions has left it failing the very children it’s supposed to help. The best way to ensure healthy outcomes for kids and protect them from the partisan crossfire of D.C. politicking is to break the federal grip on nutrition programs.

    Washington has become a permanent fixture of childhood in low-income America. The N in SNAP stands for “nutrition,” but federal food aid has routinely failed to deliver healthy diets for low-income families despite nearly $2 trillion in spending since 2000. Almost one-quarter of food purchases by SNAP households are for junk food, which undermines the efforts of doctors and other federal agencies to promote healthy diets. SNAP participants also have higher rates of obesity and poorer nutrition than nonparticipants, regularly failing to meet dietary guidelines while performing poorly on key health indicators. All of this has helped drive child obesity to nearly one in five children and adolescents as of 2020.

    SNAP may provide assistance to families, but a program that consistently fails to deliver positive outcomes for the children it aims to serve falls far short of its purpose.

    We’ve seen this problem before—and its solution. Like SNAP, Congress designed Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) to assist low-income households, but its structure created perverse incentives that encouraged single motherhood, punished work, and trapped families in dependency for years. The 1996 welfare reforms replaced AFDC with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), a fixed block grant program that provided states with much-needed flexibility to innovate and tailor their programs to fit the needs of their residents.

    States leveraged TANF’s block grant flexibility by shifting funds from pure cash assistance to targeted supports such as childcare subsidies, job training, and education programs. These reforms helped parents—especially single mothers—overcome employment barriers and increase their income. The results surpassed everyone’s predictions. Within a decade, more than 1.6 million children were lifted out of poverty. Additionally, poverty in single-mother families fell to record lows, and overall poverty and child hunger declined substantially. All of this occurred while welfare caseloads declined by more than half.

    By converting SNAP into a block grant and gradually decoupling it from federal dollars, states would be able to take on decision-making and responsibility for their programs, controlling funding and tailoring solutions to the needs of their low-income families. Just as TANF prioritized economic independence and employment, state SNAP reforms could prioritize better health and self-sufficiency.

    The current shutdown should serve as a catalyst for Congress to reassess the federal role in welfare. Children shouldn’t go hungry because Congress can’t govern—nor should they be dependent on the D.C. bureaucracy for their food. SNAP’s centralization and reliance on federal dollars have caused it to fail at meeting the nutritional needs of children, and now, millions of families face the prospect of sudden benefit disruptions.

    Congress should stop treating Americans as collateral damage in their fight over extending Obamacare subsidies and end the shutdown immediately. While restoring federal funding will avoid immediate disruptions to benefits, Congress should also reform welfare to ensure it helps rather than hinders the families who rely on it. 

    SNAP is outdated. Congress should devolve funding and administration to the states, allowing them to pursue more effective nutrition policies for low-income families.

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    Romina Boccia

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  • Sensitive to Gluten but No Celiac? You’re Not Alone

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    Research out today finds that a substantial portion of people have a sensitivity to gluten or wheat but don’t have celiac disease.

    Scientists in the UK and elsewhere reviewed dozens of studies conducted across the globe. They estimate that about one in every ten people worldwide report having a condition called non-celiac gluten/wheat sensitivity, or NCGWS. They also found that people with NCGWS are more likely to have other health issues, including anxiety and irritable bowel syndrome.

    The findings highlight that “NCGWS is both common and linked to a significant emotional and psychological burden,” lead author Mohamed Shiha, a gastroenterologist at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, told Gizmodo.

    A systematic look

    Various studies in recent years have tried to assess the toll of NCGWS. But according to Shiha, theirs is the first to systematically pool together and evaluate this data to provide reliable figures on the worldwide prevalence of the condition.

    They ultimately analyzed 25 studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 across 16 countries, collectively involving nearly 50,000 adults. Overall, they found that the global rate of self-reported NCGWS was 10.3%, though this could vary widely between countries. In the UK, for instance, the rate was 23%, while in Chile, it was 0.3%. About 5% of Americans reported having NCGWS, though this estimate is based on a single study.

    The most common symptoms associated with NCGWS were gastrointestinal and included bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. But some people also reported symptoms like fatigue, joint pains, and headaches. Women were more likely to report having NCGWS, and NCGWS was more common in people with depression, anxiety, and IBS. Less than half of people with the condition (40%) reported sticking to a gluten-free diet as a result.

    The team’s findings were published Tuesday in the journal Gut.

    A broad umbrella

    While celiac disease can be screened for with a simple blood test, there is no standard criteria or reliable markers for diagnosing NCGWS. And it seems to be a complex condition with no single, unifying cause, the authors say.

    “Our findings suggest that NCGWS is an umbrella term that describes a broad group of individuals with wheat or gluten-related symptoms that often stem from different underlying mechanisms, ranging from gut–brain interaction disorders like IBS to psychological and social factors, rather than a single, uniform biological condition,” Shiha said.

    In some cases, it could be akin to a social contagion. Rising public awareness and media attention might influence how “people interpret their symptoms,” he explained. In other cases, NCGWS could be getting mixed up with other conditions.

    “Most cases may not be directly related to gluten or wheat themselves but rather overlap with irritable bowel syndrome and other gut–brain interaction disorders such as functional dyspepsia,” Shiha said. “The significant association we found with IBS, anxiety, and depression supports this hypothesis.”

    Just last week, a review in the Lancet presented evidence that most people with a professed gluten sensitivity are actually more likely to be sensitive to fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) or to other wheat ingredients. This review also argued some cases could be caused by a nocebo effect, or the mere expectation that eating gluten will cause harm—a finding echoed by a small clinical trial published earlier this July.

    Whatever the causes, more should be done to properly diagnose and treat these cases, the authors say. To that end, the team is working on creating clearer, symptom-based criteria for identifying NCGWS. “We also want to explore how to best manage these symptoms without resorting to unnecessary restrictive diets, which can affect quality of life and nutrition,” Shiha said.

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    Ed Cara

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  • Food insecurity is a ‘public health crisis’ that Food Bank of the Rockies is helping to solve

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    The Denver Post Season To Share is the annual holiday fundraising campaign for The Denver Post and The Denver Post Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Grants are awarded to local nonprofit agencies that provide life-changing programs to help low-income children, families and individuals move out of poverty toward stabilization and self-sufficiency. Visit seasontoshare.com to learn more or to donate now.

    When CEO Erin Pulling thinks about the new Food Bank of the Rockies distribution center, currently under construction in Aurora, what excites her most is the lobby.

    This will be no mere entryway. Instead, Pulling calls “a welcoming center” where hundreds of daily volunteers will come to get their assignments. It will have meeting rooms where donors can congregate and glass windows so that visitors can peer into the warehouse and see the food bank’s mission in action.

    “It really just is the epicenter,” Pulling said. “It’s a vision of what’s possible and what’s happening.”

    Food Bank of the Rockies CEO Erin Pulling at the organization's warehouse in Denver on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (Photo By Patrick Traylor/The Denver Post)
    Food Bank of the Rockies CEO Erin Pulling at the organization’s warehouse in Denver on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (Photo By Patrick Traylor/The Denver Post)

    The Food Bank of the Rockies broke ground on its new, $75 million distribution center more than a year ago and the project is almost to the finish line. Pulling said the organization has raised 90% of the funds needed to complete the build out and is currently running a campaign to raise the remaining $7.5 million. Operations are expected to relocate there this winter.

    That may seem like a hefty price tag, but the new facility will immediately be a cost saver, Pulling said. The Food Bank of the Rockies currently rents a secondary warehouse for food distribution as well as an off-site parking lot for its delivery trucks, both of which it will be able to give up and bring in-house at the new facility.

    Of course, Pulling’s excitement isn’t just about the efficiencies this facility will allow. At 270,000 square feet, the new operations hub will also enable the organization to expand its capacity to meet the growing needs of residents it serves in 33 Colorado counties and throughout the state of Wyoming.

    The onsite kitchen, for one, will be four times larger with the ability to prepare up to 10,000 meals per day, Pulling said. More dock space and refrigeration will also allow the food bank to accept more produce and perishable items for those in need.

    “Right now, we’re really just out of space and sometimes having to turn away donated food because we don’t have enough dock space or refrigeration space,” she said. “We can engage 300 volunteers a day in the new building, whereas right now we’re capped at 100 a day.”

    The food bank’s upgrade couldn’t come at a better time, she noted. The number of food-insecure individuals across the U.S. is soaring alongside the cost of living. In 2023, about one in eight Coloradans (12.7%) were food insecure, according to an annual report by nonprofit Feeding America. The rate of local children facing insecurity was even higher that year, at 14.3%.

    Food Bank of the Rockies

    Address: 10700 E. 45th Ave., Denver
    In operation since: 1978
    Number of employees: 220
    Number of volunteers: 24,000 annually
    Annual budget: $53 million
    Number of clients served in fiscal year 2021: 400,000+

    But Pulling said demand has continued to rise. Since June, the nonprofit has seen a 10% increase in the number of people seeking its mobile food distributions. In some areas, like Aurora, attendance has climbed more than 20%, she said.

    With recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and changes to its eligibility criteria, Pulling expects future needs to be greater than at any time in the Food Bank of the Rockies 47-year history. At the same time, the organization has lost access to a portion of its food supply due to reductions in federal nutritional programs.

    “Food insecurity is becoming more of a public health crisis than ever before, and this is really the perfect storm,” she said.

    To meet demand, the Food Bank of the Rockies has grown from its humble roots “rescuing” food, like bread, headed for grocery store dumpsters to offer numerous programs that help get nutritious items to Coloradans who need them most. Most of the food it receives, through rescues or donations, helps stock pantries at more than 800 hunger relief organizations serving both urban and rural communities.

    Additionally, the food bank prepares meals for kids in summer and after-school programs, deploys mobile food pantries to targeted communities, and offers home grocery delivery for older adults. Its Totes for Hope program sends children home with food to cover their weekend needs, and individuals with certain health conditions can also enroll in the Food for Health Program, which ensures they get curated boxes of food to keep their symptoms and vitals in check.

    “The big shift over the last many years is more focus on nutritional quality of food and the cultural relevance of the food we are providing to make sure the food we are providing is familiar to the neighbors we are serving,” Pulling said.

    Cook lead Aleyna Jenkins, left, and volunteers Karen Wimberly, second from left, and Troy Quintana, right, help assemble ready-to-eat meals at Food Bank of the Rockies in Denver on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (Photo By Patrick Traylor/The Denver Post)
    Cook lead Aleyna Jenkins, left, and volunteers Karen Wimberly, second from left, and Troy Quintana, right, help assemble ready-to-eat meals at Food Bank of the Rockies in Denver on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (Photo By Patrick Traylor/The Denver Post)

    Part of that work involves sustainably sourcing produce, which often has a short shelf life and can be difficult to rescue. Food Bank of the Rockies now purchases much of its fresh produce from Colorado-based farmers, helping boost local economies while simultaneously making these items more accessible – all in hopes of nourishing locals so they can reach their full potential.

    “People experiencing food insecurity, if they’re turning in general to less expensive foods, we know that other factors of their life are likely suffering, such as their health status and then medical costs and then ability to perhaps maintain health, take care of kids, don’t have missed work, things like that,” Pulling said. “It’s such a cycle and the right nutritious food is such an important element of that cycle for people to be successful citizens and decrease their eventual dependence on food banks and food pantries.”

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    Tiney Ricciardi

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  • What really happens to your body when you eat too much sugar – and how to fix it

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    Sugar is everywhere, and many of us are eating far too much each day. According to the NHS, adults should have no more than 30g of free sugars a day (around six teaspoons), while children should have no more than 24g of free sugars a day, with less for toddlers and youngsters under the age of seven. But what impact is sugar having on our health and well-being? And how can we ever get our intake under control? I’m a health and nutrition coach, and this topic is what helped me develop my passion for nutrition over 15 years ago. After becoming unwell towards the end of my studies at university, I found that by cutting out sugar and making lots of changes to my diet and lifestyle, I felt better within weeks, and understood how important the diet choices we make each day are for everything from our mood to our weight and digestive health.

    That’s not to say I don’t have sugar now, nor do I think you need to cut it out completely to be healthy. However, when you discover the impact that consuming too much sugar can have on your health, you may just be tempted to try.

    © Getty Images
    Adults are recommended to have no more than 30g of free sugars a day

    Why we crave sugar

    There are many reasons we may have sugar cravings, but they can become stronger at times of stress, when you are tired, not eating enough, or even if you’re dehydrated. At many of these times, our body craves sugar as a quick source of energy, but this can wear off quickly, and unless the underlying cause is resolved (i.e. drinking a glass of water if you’re actually dehydrated), you will likely just want more sugar again. 

    Another issue is that sugar is in so many of the packaged foods we eat, including ‘savoury’ foods like pasta sauces, soup and salad dressings. This means our taste buds may adapt to prefer a sweeter taste and contribute to sugar cravings. 

    The effects of excess sugar on your body

    Sugar can have a lot of harmful effects on your body, impacting everything from your brain function and behaviour to digestion and your immune system. It is well known that consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, and frequent high sugar intake can also lead to the body becoming less responsive to insulin, causing insulin resistance. This is considered a precursor to type 2 diabetes and is associated with cardiovascular disease, obesity and inflammation.

    Too much sugar can also impact gut health. A high-sugar, high-fat Western diet has been found to damage immune cells in the gut, increasing the risk of an imbalance of gut bacteria. It can also cause an overgrowth of candida, a yeast in the body, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome and cause food sensitivities to previously-tolerated foods, along with conditions such as thrush, skin rashes and fatigue.

    The gut and brain are closely linked, which is why excess sugar consumption can also cause changes in brain function. Studies have shown that a high sugar diet can alter the production of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin, which can lead to a higher risk for anxiety, depression and mood disorders. 

    Meanwhile, eating too much sugar may even make you more prone to illness. Research has found that within 30 minutes of eating simple sugars, your white blood cells’ ability to fight invading bacteria and viruses decreases by 50 per cent, and lasts for at least five hours. So if you’re constantly run down, it may be worth cutting down on your sugar intake.

    How sugar impacts your energy and skin

    By now, you may have realised the systemic effects that sugar can have throughout your body, and the same can be said for your skin. Consuming too much sugar can create inflammation in the body, which is linked to conditions like rosacea, acne and eczema. It has also been linked to premature ageing and wrinkles.

    woman looking in mirror© Getty Images
    Eating too much sugar can cause premature ageing and breakouts

    Meanwhile, if you eat a lot of sugar, you may be familiar with the blood sugar highs and crashes that it can cause. One minute you may feel energetic, and the next you may feel tired, ‘hangry’ and light-headed, and craving your next sugar fix to increase your energy again. Each time we eat sugar, the pancreas releases insulin to get our blood sugar back to normal, but this cycle can lead to a rollercoaster of sugar highs and lows that can become hard to break.

    Simple ways to reset your sugar intake

    Keep a food diary:

    If you feel that you’re having too much sugar, it may help to start by looking at the nutrition labels of any packaged foods and drinks you’re consuming and keeping a note of their sugar levels in a food diary for a few days. That way, you can get a clearer idea of how much sugar you are having and what is contributing most to this. From there, you may have a better idea of which foods you can try to swap for healthier alternatives.

    Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast:

    If your typical breakfast is something like cereal or sugary granola, coffee, or even skipped altogether, swapping for a protein-rich meal can be a really effective way of breaking your sugar habits. Starting your day with something like scrambled eggs, avocado, and smoked salmon or full-fat Greek yoghurt with berries can help to provide a slower, steadier energy release that will keep you full for longer and avoid the blood sugar rollercoaster all day long.

    Scrambled eggs with tomato arugula salad on plate on wooden table. Healthy tasty breakfast omelette© Getty Images
    Eating a protein-rich breakfast can help curb sugar cravings

    Cut down on added sugars:

    It is also a good idea to try and cut down on any extra refined sugars you are adding to your diet. For example, if you are a coffee lover who has three cups a day, all with a teaspoon of sugar, that adds up to an extra 15 grams of sugar a day – or half of your recommended daily intake. To start with, try cutting this down to half a teaspoon and allow your taste buds to adjust before eventually cutting it out altogether.

    Avoid liquid sugars:

    It’s estimated that around half of our added sugar intake comes from sugar-sweetened drinks, such as soft drinks, milkshakes and blended coffee drinks. Meanwhile, even fruit juices, which you may believe are healthy, can still have a significant impact on blood sugar levels as they are missing the fibre from the fruit that slows down its digestion. If you regularly drink juices and fizzy drinks, this could be a good place to start in significantly lowering your daily sugar intake.

    Don’t go cold turkey:

    If you try to go cold turkey on your sugar intake, it can worsen cravings. So rather than banning sugar completely, focus on adding more nutritious foods into your diet instead of what you need to cut out. Eating low-sugar fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries can satiate your sweet tooth without impacting your blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, blending dates with oats, seed or nut butter, and cocoa powder can create a delicious, fibre-rich snack alternative to your chocolate fix. You may find that by taking this approach, you naturally consume less sugar without having cravings or feeling like you’re missing anything.

    Balance out your sugar intake:

    Swap ice cream for coconut yoghurt and berries© iStock
    Eating berries with yoghurt can make a satiating snack

    Meanwhile, when you do eat anything sweet, pair it with a source of protein and healthy fats to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. This may look like eating some nuts alongside some chocolate, or adding full-fat Greek yoghurt to your fruit for a more balanced and satiating snack.

    Try healthy sugar alternatives:

    It is not recommended to use sweeteners or sugar substitutes instead of sugar, as these can be incredibly addictive and make your sweet tooth even stronger. Instead, use real sugar sources in moderation. Honey, maple syrup and coconut sugar work well for home baking and don’t have as much of an impact on blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, mashed fruits, including bananas, dates, and grated apples, can also work well to sweeten homemade cakes and cookies, without the need for refined sugar. 

    Expert tips for maintaining balance

    It may seem daunting to cut down on sugar when you realise how many foods and drinks it is in, but mindset is everything. Rather than thinking about what you’re missing out on by not eating or drinking these things any longer, focus on the benefits that it may offer – whether that’s improving your focus at work, clearing up your skin, or helping you to overcome uncomfortable or persistent digestive issues that you may have had no idea were sugar-related. 

    Also, don’t be too hard on yourself if and when you do consume anything sweet. Sugar is incredibly hard to cut out completely, and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. In just one month of living your new lower-sugar lifestyle, you should find that your taste buds will change and you won’t always have the same cravings that you may have now. Put simply, the less sugar you eat, the less you’ll want!

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    Chloe Couchman

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  • 100-year-old great-grandmother reveals her secret of living a long life

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    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Longevity is a lifestyle practice, according to 100-year-old Ruth Lemay, who has gone viral for sharing her vibrant energy and fitness routine.

    Lemay, who lives in Virginia Beach, was featured in a video while pedaling on a recumbent exercise bike at the gym, which was posted by the health brand evry.day club (@evrydayclub) on Instagram.

    The centenarian was asked what she does to stay so fit and “look so great” for her age, as she was wrapping up three miles on the bike after 30 minutes.

    7 STEPS TO ‘SUPER-AGING’ ARE KEY TO LIVING A LONGER, MORE FULFILLING LIFE, EXPERTS SAY

    “Then I’ll do 30 more minutes,” she commented. “And I walk — [I’ll] do a mile.”

    Lemay shared her “secret to longevity” — the fact that she started walking four miles every day after she retired.

    “That’s just what keeps you going,” she said. “A lot of exercise. Plenty of sleep. I go to bed at 9:30 at night and I eat a lot of vegetables — trying to keep healthy.”

    TWO KEY HEART HEALTH METRICS COULD DETERMINE HOW LONG YOU’LL LIVE

    Lemay said that she and her 78-year-old daughter attend the gym three times per week, where they typically do individual workouts.

    Her sessions include riding the recumbent bike, which is reclined to support the lower back, for two 30-minute stints, reaching about three miles both times.

    ONE OVERLOOKED DAILY HABIT COULD SLOW THE AGING PROCESS, RESEARCHERS SAY

    That is followed by a 1.4-mile walk, as Lemay is currently working toward reaching a mile and a half.

    “When I don’t go to the recreation center, I still try and walk from one end of my house to the other,” she told Women’s Health. “It’s 170 steps, 40 times, which is 6,800 steps (3.22 miles).”

    Ruth Lemay, 100, bikes and walks every day to keep healthy. (Instagram/@evrydayclub; iStock)

    In an interview with TODAY.com, Lemay said she lives in her own home, enjoys cooking and drove a car until she was 98.

    “I’ve always exercised,” she said. “I feel fine. I might be a little bit tired after riding the bicycle and the walk, but that’s OK. I don’t expect not to feel tired.”

    CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

    According to Lemay, her late husband of 56 years would encourage her to walk after work.

    “He said, ‘You just take the dog and go for a walk and I’ll fix dinner,’” she recalled. “It was wonderful.”

    Senior couple walking in park on path with trees in the background.

    Lemay’s late husband always encouraged her to walk when she got home from work. (Lemays not pictured) (iStock)

    Lemay’s daughter, Annette Parker, shared with TODAY that her mother has “always been very conscious of her diet.”

    This includes non-fat yogurt, walnuts, oatmeal with banana and milk, or a scrambled egg with toast in the mornings. For protein, Lemay sticks with chicken, turkey or seafood.

    CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

    Lemay’s diet also includes red grapes, blueberries and many vegetables.

    “I love vegetables. I grew up in the country, and my dad grew all kinds of vegetables, and they were wonderful for you,” she said.

    four senior friends talk and laugh

    Maintaining social relationships and good mental health have been shown to promote longevity. (iStock)

    Lemay, who has never smoked and doesn’t drink alcohol, added, “I’m in pretty good health for my age.”

    While genetics may impact longevity, Lemay shared with TODAY that she doesn’t know anyone in her family who has lived as long as her. Her mother died of colon cancer at 65 and her father died from a heart condition at 74.

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

    Other than one heart valve replacement, the great-grandmother has avoided major health complications.

    In addition to paying attention to nutrition and fitness, Lemay and Parker said that maintaining good mental health and keeping a vibrant social life have been key longevity factors.

    Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.

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  • Woman’s Bruising From a Massage Gun Was a Sign of Something Far Worse: Scurvy

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    A 37-year-old woman’s bruising from a massage gun ended up having a cause stranger than anyone could have expected. In a recent report, doctors documented how the woman had developed the rare condition scurvy.

    Doctors at the University of Pennsylvania detailed the bizarre turn of events in a paper published last month in the New England Journal of Medicine as part of a regular segment highlighting medically complex cases. The woman’s bruising was the only first sign of worsening health issues that eventually landed her in the hospital. Fortunately, after several false leads, her clinicians correctly diagnosed the woman’s vitamin C deficiency, and she made a full recovery.

    The wrong culprit

    According to the report, the woman visited the emergency room four days into having acute pain, swelling, and bruising on the upper portion of her left knee—symptoms that began after she used an electric massage gun on that area. She carried a genetic mutation that increased her general risk of blood clotting, which was managed with a blood thinner, and also had a long history of heavy menstrual bleeding. Anyone can potentially bruise or hurt themselves by applying too much pressure with a massage gun, though, and since initial tests didn’t find any other underlying reason for her symptoms, she was discharged and simply told to stop using the gun.

    Several weeks later, however, she visited the ER again, now with new symptoms of lightheadedness and shortness of breath while exerting herself. She was then admitted to the hospital. The doctors suspected she had anemia caused by a lack of iron, and she was discharged with a prescription for iron pills and weekly IV infusions of iron.

    Despite her treatment, her anemia and overall health continued to worsen, however. She visited the ER once more six weeks after her hospitalization with new chest pain, night sweats, and a sudden weight loss of 15 pounds. She now also had a high heart rate and low blood oxygen level, and soon enough, she was admitted to the intensive care unit.

    Doctors determined she had developed pulmonary hypertension, a life-threatening type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and right side of the heart. But all of their tests continued to show no clear indication of what was causing her illness in the first place.

    Throughout all of this, her left leg continued to show bruising and swelling. And when doctors reexamined both legs, they found distinctive discolored spots and hairs curled up into a corkscrew shape. They also found she had developed “red-purple soft nodules” along her gums. Unlike her earlier, more general symptoms, these skin problems finally pointed to a very specific, if now rarely encountered, culprit: scurvy.

    When questioned, the woman admitted that she had purposefully avoided eating anything containing citrus fruits years ago, following an episode of hives that she attributed to eating citrus. Testing failed to detect any vitamin C in her system, and she was immediately started on supplementation.

    Just two days into her new therapy, she was discharged from the ICU and eventually the hospital as well. Her health continued to steadily improve over the next few months, and follow-up testing showed that her heart issues had cleared up.

    Rare but still around

    Thanks to the widespread knowledge that we need regular doses of vitamin C from our diets, scurvy is no longer the fearsome threat it was centuries ago.

    But even today, doctors do still occasionally see it. Some research has also suggested that the incidence of scurvy in the U.S. has climbed lately, particularly among vulnerable groups like children with sensory issues, elderly people, and others struggling to eat or afford healthy fruits and vegetables.

    This case was stranger than most, though, since pulmonary hypertension usually isn’t linked to scurvy. The authors note that the condition is often hard to diagnose at first because—as is with this case—the earliest signs tend to be non-specific symptoms potentially caused by many different things. So as rare as it is, the doctors hope their report can provide doctors a timely lesson that scurvy is still around.

    “The current case serves as a reminder that scurvy continues to occur in the United States and highlights its potential severity and clinical features,” they wrote.

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    Ed Cara

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  • I Tried the Best Mushroom Gummies—Here Are My Top 3

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    Compare Top 3 Mushroom Gummies

    Honorable Mentions

    Courtesy of Alice Mushrooms

    Alice Mushrooms Nightcap for $59: Mushroom chocolate aims to aid in nighttime relaxation while also regulating sleep cycles long-term. Alice Chocolates uses reishi, a substance that comes from fruiting mushrooms, along with chamomile, L-theanine, magnesium, and zinc. The idea is that the reishi will help regulate and promote healthy sleep patterns over time, while the added supplements will aid in helping with sleepiness more immediately. The chocolates are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and kosher, and also come in Brainstorm, to aid in energy and focus, and Happy Ending, for arousal and pleasure. The chocolate was tasty—it wasn’t overly sweet and had a nice bitterness like a robust dark chocolate should. The first few nights of testing, I woke up around 4 am, but after I upped the dose to two chocolate squares, I felt more relaxed before bed, fell asleep in a little over an hour, and stayed asleep all night. —Molly Higgins

    The Best Mushroom Gummies on the Market LabApproved

    Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

    Sunday Scaries Mushroom Gummies for $23: Sunday Scaries deliver a noticeable jolt. Thirty minutes after consumption, I felt that unmistakable caffeine buzz. Flavor-wise, the orange is OK. I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it. Every batch comes with third-party certifications verifying purity, potency, and safety. The ingredients are sourced—a blend of Lion’s Mane Extract, organic Chaga powder, and Gingko Biloba (not a mushroom) extract—from KND Labs in Denver, an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility.

    Avoid These Mushroom Gummies

    The Best Mushroom Gummies on the Market LabApproved

    Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

    Space Goods Moon Chews and Star Chews: Frankly, I somewhat hate to do this, because these chewies taste like candy, but that was the first red flag. No one can make mushrooms taste that good, and Space Goods has no published reports or certifications to back up any of its claims—despite stating they are third-party tested. Not much information on the mushrooms, except that they’re sourced in North America and China, which is as vague as a brand can get. “Frustratingly, there are many ingredients and benefits of our products that we can’t legally tell you about,” the site’s Health Claims page reads. I’m sorry, what?

    FAQs About Mushroom Gummies

    What to Look for When Buying Mushroom Gummies

    1. Decide if you want a mushroom-exclusive gummy or a blend. Some brands add other adaptogens, like ashwagandha or vitamins.
    2. Check the amount per serving. Many gummies only include trace amounts (50-100 mg), which may not be enough to have any effect. More research-backed doses usually range from 500 milligrams to two grams daily, depending on the shroom—but consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for you, especially if you’re taking other supplements or medications.
    3. The label specifies fruiting body extract. Some brands use mostly mycelium on grain, which is cheaper and less potent. Fruiting body extracts are richer in beta-glucans and other active compounds.
    4. Look for mention of standardized extracts or percent of beta-glucans. Hot water or dual-extracted mushrooms are better for bioavailability.
    5. Certificates of Analysis (COAs) should be accessible on the brand’s site. Credible supplements are third-party tested for purity, potency, and heavy metals. Bonus if the brand works with mycologists or sources mushrooms from reputable growers.
    6. Since these are gummies, check how much sugar or sweeteners are in each serving. I would aim for less than three grams. If you’re intolerant to sugar alcohols, this is especially important.

    Are There Any Potential Side Effects of Mushroom Gummies?

    Functional mushroom gummies are generally considered safe for most healthy adults, but like any supplement, they can cause side effects or interact with medications. Possible side effects include, but are not limited to: gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness or stimulation, and allergic reactions. It’s best to start with a low dose and talk to a doctor before adding a new supplement to your daily routine, especially if you have chronic health conditions.

    In the past, mushroom gummies sold at convenience stores and smoke shops have tested positive for undisclosed, illegal stimulants (including psilocybin and kratom). Because labels can be misleading, avoid impulse buys of mushroom gummies from non-regulated retailers, and choose only lab-tested supplements with third-party certificates.

    How We Test Mushroom Gummies

    1. Ingredients: I start by checking whether the mushroom gummies contain fruiting body extracts or mycelium, which are the two most common sources of functional mushrooms. The fruiting body—which is the stem and cap of the shroom—typically has higher concentrations of beta-glucans and triterpenes than the root, or mycelium. I also flag any additives, added sweeteners, or mysterious proprietary blends.
    2. Third-Party Testing: Since the FDA doesn’t evaluate supplements before they hit the market, I prioritize brands that publish third-party certificates of analysis (COAs).
    3. Taste and Texture: What’s the point of a gummy supplement if it doesn’t taste good? I gauge flavor, chewiness, and aftertaste. I also pay attention to packaging and take note of how they hold up over time with proper storage.
    4. Experience: We can’t verify every wellness claim, but I do regularly take the gummies myself and track whether products seem to support the health benefits they advertise. I also look through the customer reviews to get an idea of what other users’ experiences are.

    Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscriber content that’s too important to ignore. Subscribe Today.

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    Boutayna Chokrane

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  • PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Reviews 2025: Ingredients, Complaints, and Real Results for Men Over 40

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    NEW YORK, September 18, 2025 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Information in this article is for educational purposes only. Speak with a licensed healthcare professional before using any supplement, especially if you take medications, have a medical condition, or plan a procedure. Always check the official website for the latest price, promo eligibility, and shipping terms, since these can change at any time. This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, a commission may be earned at no additional cost to you.

    TL;DR Summary: PrimeGENIX Bone Complex targets men over 40 who want structured support for bone density and fracture risk reduction. The formula pairs MCHA with nine added nutrients, a refund window, and direct purchase guidance.

    In This Article, You’ll Discover:

    • Why PrimeGENIX Bone Complex reviews and complaints dominate search results

    • Ingredient and feature breakdowns based on public product claims

    • The most common complaints from verified customers and expected responses

    • Pros and cons mentioned by users in reviews

    • Pricing, refund policy, and where to buy with anti-counterfeit tips

    • Whether PrimeGENIX Bone Complex looks legit or a scam

    Introduction: Honest PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Reviews and Complaints in 2025

    Search interest for men’s bone support keeps rising. Men in their 40s and 50s stay active. Many want support for strength training, weekend sports, and fall prevention. Most bone pages online speak to women. Men ask where products for them exist. PrimeGENIX positions Bone Complex for this gap.

    You want facts, not hype. You also want a clear view of the risks. This review sets expectations, highlights complaint themes, and lays out next steps. You will see what the product claims, what users tend to like, and where frustration appears. You will also find refund and pricing details near the middle of the article, eliminating the need to scroll for basic buying points.

    Bone Complex centers on microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite, or MCHA. The brand frames MCHA as a more absorbable calcium source. It also emphasizes complementary nutrients for bone structure and turnover. These include vitamins D3 and K, magnesium, zinc, boron, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamin C. The seller highlights cGMP manufacturing in the United States and a 67-day refund window. We will examine those claims in context and show how they relate to common concerns.

    Complaints often cluster around three areas. Shipping timing and tracking. Refund steps and timelines. Effects that do not match personal expectations. This piece explains how to navigate each area with simple actions. You will also see how to avoid third-party marketplaces to cut counterfeit risk.

    You will find a direct comparison section for 2025. It uses criteria you can reuse across brands. Refund clarity, label transparency, ingredient form, dosage ranges, and cultural presence. That way, you can judge PrimeGENIX Bone Complex with the same lens you use for any alternative.

    If you want a quick look at the official sales page now, use the link below. You can return here to continue this guide.

    Visit the Official PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Website

    What Is PrimeGENIX Bone Complex and How Does It Work?

    PrimeGENIX Bone Complex is a dietary supplement for men over 40. The goal is to support bone density, reduce bone loss, and lower fracture risk. The core is MCHA. MCHA mirrors the mineral matrix in human bone. The page claims better uptake than standard calcium salts. The product then layers vitamins and minerals that support bone formation, remodeling, and collagen integrity.

    Here is the high-level mechanism. Calcium and phosphorus form hydroxyapatite crystals inside bone. Vitamin D supports calcium uptake. Vitamin K supports carboxylation of osteocalcin, which binds calcium within bone. Magnesium supports bone formation enzymes and helps balance calcium status. Trace minerals, such as zinc, copper, manganese, and boron, support collagen cross-linking, bone matrix formation, and bone turnover. Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis and offers antioxidant support. The formula design seeks synergy. Better inputs in the right ratios help bone tissue retain structure under load.

    Men face unique risks. Activity intensity, higher body mass, and impact sports increase load on the hips, spine, wrists, and ankles. A product that targets density and matrix strength aligns with those stressors. The seller also frames MCHA as a way to address concerns linked to standard calcium pills. The sales page claims low absorption for standard salts and promotes MCHA as a better option. This review keeps the language neutral and urges medical guidance for dosing and lab work. You should confirm vitamin D levels, kidney function, and medication interactions with your provider.

    Responsible use means patience. Bone remodeling runs on months, not days. You set a daily routine, track training volume, and get daylight exposure where safe. You also set realistic goals. Support products do not replace resistance training, protein intake, sleep, and safety habits. The formula can support a broader plan. Use the refund window as a guardrail while you test fit.

    Ingredient Breakdown

    This section explains each named component in plain terms. If a specific dose is not confirmed on a label screenshot, treat the following as generalized guidance. Speak with your clinician for personal dosing and lab monitoring. Do not exceed directions on the bottle.

    MCHA, microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite. This form includes calcium and phosphorus in a ratio found in bone. The page highlights potential benefits for absorption and tolerance. Source quality matters. The brand states bovine origin from New Zealand sources. You should confirm allergen status and dietary fit.

    Vitamin D3. Supports calcium absorption and bone mineralization. Many adults show low baseline levels. Ask your provider for a 25 OH D test before high-dose use. Excess intake can raise calcium too high. That risk calls for medical oversight, especially if you take thiazides or have kidney issues.

    Vitamin K supports the activation of osteocalcin, which helps bind calcium in bone. Vitamin K interacts with blood thinners such as warfarin. If you use anticoagulants, speak with your prescriber before use.

    Magnesium. Supports bone formation enzymes and helps balance calcium. Diets often fall short. High-dose magnesium can loosen stools. Start within the label range and take with food.

    Zinc. Supports bone growth and repair. High zinc for long periods can reduce copper status. Balanced multimineral formulas help manage that risk.

    Boron. Supports mineral metabolism and may help calcium retention. Keep intake within safe ranges. More is not always better.

    Copper. Supports collagen cross-linking. Excess intake can stress the liver. Balance with zinc matters.

    Manganese. Supports enzyme systems for bone matrix. Excess intake can have neurologic effects. Stay within label limits.

    Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis. Intake from food plus a modest supplement dose often suffices.

    Phosphorus. Present within MCHA. Supports the hydroxyapatite structure. Excess phosphorus from sodas and processed foods can harm bone health. The MCHA source targets a structural role rather than free phosphate load.

    The seller claims cGMP production in the United States. That aligns with quality system controls. Many buyers want third-party testing details and contaminant screens. Request support for a recent certificate of analysis if you have specific requirements.

    If you want to check the current panel and any updates before ordering, use the link below.

    Review the Current Ingredient Profile

    Pros and Cons of PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Pros

    A man-focused angle helps with adherence. Men over 40 want direct language, simple dosing, and support for active life. A single formula offers structure. The MCHA bases its approach on bone biology. Added vitamins and minerals to cover common gaps, such as D and magnesium. The cGMP note and U.S. production will appeal to quality-minded buyers. A 67-day refund window reduces risk during a first run. The seller directs buyers to order directly, which can reduce the risk of counterfeit products from third-party marketplaces.

    Cons

    Results vary with diet, training, sleep, and baseline labs. Some buyers expect rapid changes, which can create frustration. Supplements take time. Shipping and tracking issues appear in many complaint clusters across the category. Refunds also require steps, such as returns within a window and order verification. Label clarity and third-party test access may seem insufficient if a buyer anticipates full COA links in the checkout process. MCHA source raises dietary fit questions for some. The vitamin K component will not fit users on warfarin. Multi-capsule daily ranges can bother users who want a single pill.

    If you want to see current offers before you read complaints and solutions, tap the link below.

    See If PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Is Right for You

    The Biggest Complaints About PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Shoppers raise three themes most. Shipping, refunds, and results. Each theme has simple fixes. Start with shipping. Late deliveries frustrate buyers. Weekends and holidays extend timelines. Weather and carrier scans create gaps. Use order confirmation, tracking emails, and carrier apps. Save the order number and the email used at checkout. Use those for quick lookups with support. Photograph the box on arrival in case damage shows up later.

    Refunds come next. Buyers expect frictionless money returns. The brand lists a 67-day window. Returns still need steps. Keep the original bottles and packaging. Save receipts and tracking numbers for the return. Photograph the return box with the shipping label. Use a carrier with tracking. Watch for refund confirmation emails after delivery back to the warehouse. If nothing posts in your statement after a full billing cycle, contact support with timestamps and photos. Ask for the RMA instructions before you ship anything.

    Results drive most complaints in this category. Bone remodeling runs slowly. Most adults expect changes in weeks. DEXA scans often run six to twelve months apart. Set a baseline first. Discuss training, protein intake, vitamin D status, and sleep hours with your clinician. Log daily use for accountability. Align expectations with the biology. A supplement supports a plan. It does not replace strength training, balance work, or fall prevention habits.

    Two more issues surface at times. Capsules per day and vitamin K. The multi-capsule range can feel tedious for some users. Prepare a simple routine linked to one daily meal. Vitamin K conflicts with warfarin. Anyone on anticoagulants must seek medical advice first. The same holds for kidney disease, parathyroid disorders, and a history of high calcium. Buyers also ask for third-party testing. Ask for a recent certificate of analysis. Save it with your order records.

    If you want direct help before ordering, use the link below for current policies.

    Related: PrimeGENIX Prostate Support Reviews 2025: Dual-Action Relief

    Positive Reviews: Why Customers Like PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Positive feedback highlights four points. Simple daily routine, targeted design for men, broad nutrient coverage, and a clear refund policy. Adherence stays higher when a product fits a daily meal. Many buyers prefer a formula that speaks to male activity and risk profiles. MCHA serves as the anchor. Added D3, K, magnesium, zinc, boron, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamin C to create a complete feel. That reduces the urge to stack random pills with unknown overlap.

    Community voices often mention joint confidence during sports, peace of mind after a scan, and fewer supplement bottles on the counter. Content creators point to label logic and cGMP production. Blog and podcast hosts favor direct purchase links to avoid marketplace issues. Reddit threads in adjacent health communities often praise step-by-step routines. They value consistency over novelty. TikTok clips skew toward “what I take” list videos. Those clips show morning or dinner supplement setups, which promote adherence.

    Reviewers who track health metrics, such as structure. They log daily use, sleep, protein intake, and training volume. They schedule a DEXA at baseline and a second scan months later. They add balance drills and grip strength tests. They monitor vitamin D levels with their provider. That mindset drives stronger reviews. The supplement supports a broader plan with measurable checkpoints.

    Customer service notes appear in positive posts when agents answer quickly and replace damaged shipments without hassle. Clear return emails and tracking updates earn praise. Direct site orders also get higher trust. Buyers dislike counterfeit risk on large marketplaces. The brand’s site provides control over batch and storage conditions.

    Ready to explore current offers and read more customer notes.

    Is PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Legit or a Scam?

    Legitimacy rests on five signals. Transparent claims, refund terms, manufacturing standards, realistic timelines, and support access. The brand frames claims around support for bone density and structure. The copy includes FDA and health disclaimers. That aligns with supplement rules. A 67 day refund window adds consumer protection. cGMP production in the United States supports quality systems. The page avoids miracle promises and urges daily use over time. That language matches realistic timelines for bone remodeling.

    Red flags to watch across any brand include hidden rebills, aggressive countdown timers, fake celebrity endorsements, and unverifiable studies. This sales page lists prices upfront and presents a stable cart. The refund policy shows clear steps. Third-party logos appear as background to a physician’s bio, with a footnote that clarifies no direct connection. That level of disclosure reduces confusion.

    Independent verification still helps. Ask for a certificate of analysis. Confirm vitamin D, K, and mineral amounts on the current label. Check the phone lines for live agent access during the listed hours. Search your bank statement descriptors after a small test order to verify the merchant record. Use a credit card for added buyer protection.

    Bottom line. The offer shows standard legitimacy signals for a direct-to-consumer supplement. The refund window length, cGMP note, and disclosures support that view. Results vary by baseline status and routine. Set expectations with your clinician and use objective checkpoints.

    Expert Insights and Industry Research

    Public data shows fracture risk rising with age in men, not only in women. Vitamin D insufficiency is common in adults. Diets often fall short on magnesium. Strength training and balance work reduce falls. Supplements play a supporting role in broader plans that include protein targets and outdoor activity. Clinical literature on MCHA discusses bone mineralization support in the context of calcium and phosphorus delivered in a matrix form. Vitamin K supports osteocalcin activation. Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis. Trace minerals support enzyme pathways involved in matrix formation and turnover.

    Affordability influences adherence. Multi-product stacks add cost and confusion. A single formula simplifies routines and reduces errors. Direct site orders reduce counterfeit risk and make returns easier to manage. Refund windows increase trial confidence. Clear support lines and posted hours help resolve shipment or label questions.

    Experts urge lab work before high-dose fat-soluble vitamins. A 25 OH D test guides vitamin D intake. Kidney function labs and medication reviews reduce adverse events. Warfarin users must get prescriber guidance before any vitamin K product. Creatine, whey protein, and resistance training pair well with bone support plans for many men, when cleared by a clinician. Sunlight exposure, calcium from food, and fall prevention practices complete the plan.

    Your next step is simple. Map your plan. Baseline DEXA if eligible. Lab work for vitamin D and kidney function. Strength and balance routine. Protein target by body weight. Daily supplement routine linked to one meal. Follow up with your provider in twelve weeks. Repeat labs and adjust.

    Review the product details while you outline that plan.

    Learn the Facts About PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Comparing PrimeGENIX Bone Complex vs Alternatives in 2025

    Use a clear framework. Start with refund terms. Longer windows reduce risk. Next, check the ingredient form. MCHA vs calcium carbonate or citrate. Then, check vitamin D and K forms and doses. Review magnesium form and amount. Scan for zinc, boron, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamin C. Seek balanced ratios to avoid long-term imbalances, such as excess zinc without copper.

    Look at transparency and testing. Brands that provide recent COAs on request score higher. Check the cGMP notes and the manufacturing country. Review the capsule count per day and the total cost per month. Price comparisons only matter with equal forms and doses. Watch for proprietary blends that hide amounts. That approach blocks fair comparisons.

    Consider cultural presence and education. Brands that publish how-to guides on training, protein intake, and fall prevention serve user needs better. Check customer service access. Live phone lines and posted hours matter. Finally, review counterfeit risk. Direct site orders reduce exposure to gray market resellers.

    Where does PrimeGENIX fit? The offer lists MCHA plus nine nutrients, cGMP production, and a 67-day refund window. The site lists phone support with U.S. and international numbers and posted hours. Pricing sits in the mid-range for a multi-nutrient bone formula. Dosing uses a one to six capsule range with a once-daily routine linked to meals.

    Use this framework on any shortlist. Print it or save it in notes. Then match each brand line by line. Pick the product that fits your lab plan, budget, and routine.

    Check PrimeGENIX prices and bundles next. Pricing details shift over time.

    Check Current Pricing for PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Pricing, Refund Policy, and Where to Buy

    The site lists three bundles. One month at $59.95. Three months at $159.85. Six months at $299.70. The page lists fast, free shipping to the continental U.S. on three and six-month bundles. Pricing subject to change at any time. Always confirm the final price, shipping, taxes, and any promo at checkout before you place an order. Do not buy from third-party marketplaces. Direct orders reduce counterfeit risk and simplify refunds.

    The refund policy lists a 67-day window. Keep all bottles, order numbers, and packing slips. Contact support to request return steps. Ship with tracking and a photograph of the label. Save timestamps. Refunds post to the original payment method. Banks require time to show the credit on statements. Follow up with support if a full cycle passes without a posted refund.

    Use these steps to save time. Create a simple folder in your email for order and return messages. Store photos of the box and label. Add the support phone numbers to your contacts. Set a calendar reminder for day 50 after delivery. Review progress, labs, and adherence. Decide to keep or return before the window closes.

    Order directly using the masked link below. Recheck prices and shipping before payment.

    Pricing disclaimer: always check the official website for the latest price and shipping terms. Offers change without notice.

    Safety, Risks, and Responsible Use

    Bone health support demands care. Supplements help only if used correctly. PrimeGENIX Bone Complex contains multiple minerals and vitamins. Each interacts with diet and medication. Responsible use means checking with your healthcare provider first. Men over 40 often take prescriptions. These can include blood pressure drugs, anticoagulants, or diabetes medicines. Vitamin K can alter the effect of warfarin. High doses of vitamin D affect calcium balance. Magnesium interacts with diuretics. Copper and zinc ratios matter for long-term balance. Discuss all these factors with your provider before starting.

    Follow dosage directions on the label. The suggested use is one to six capsules per day with food. Do not exceed that range. Spread doses if you take more than two capsules. Always pair supplements with adequate hydration. Take with a meal that contains protein and healthy fat. That helps absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like D and K. Skipping meals or taking on an empty stomach raises the chance of stomach upset.

    Side effects are rare but possible. Some men report mild digestive changes, such as gas or loose stool, from magnesium or vitamin C. High calcium intake can raise kidney stone risk in sensitive men. Vitamin D excess can elevate calcium levels in the blood. Symptoms of imbalance include nausea, muscle weakness, and confusion. If those appear, stop use and see your doctor. Blood tests can confirm calcium and vitamin D status. Kidney function tests provide a safe baseline.

    Set realistic expectations. Bone density does not shift in weeks. Strength training, a balanced diet, and sleep play equal or larger roles than pills. Supplements work best as part of a complete program. Do not rely on Bone Complex alone. Implement fall prevention practices, increase protein intake, encourage outdoor activity, and conduct regular lab monitoring. Keep records of daily use. Mark your calendar for follow-up scans or lab draws. Responsible use means patience and documentation.

    If you decide to try Bone Complex, use the official order link. That ensures the refund policy applies and that the product comes from verified facilities.

    User Testimonials and Case Studies

    Customer stories give context beyond ingredients. Men over 40 fit into different groups. Some are competitive athletes. Others are casual gym goers. Many want protection during outdoor work or sports. Reviews online highlight common themes. Confidence in training, fewer worries about falls, and relief in finding a men-focused formula.

    One case study comes from an endurance athlete in his late 40s. He noted stress fracture risk during long runs. His review mentioned peace of mind after adding Bone Complex to his daily meal. He paired it with vitamin D testing and strength work. Over time, he felt more secure in the volume of training.

    Another testimonial comes from a man in his mid-50s. He had a family history of hip fractures. He wrote about scanning reviews before choosing Bone Complex. His comments praised the all-in-one blend. He valued the convenience of replacing several bottles with one. His main complaint was the multi-capsule dose, but he managed it with dinner.

    Biohackers frame Bone Complex as one part of their stack. They combine it with protein powder, creatine, and mobility work. Their feedback points to tracking tools. Apps help them log consistency. That adherence fuels better outcomes.

    Preparedness communities note practical value. They want long-term bone health for manual tasks and emergency resilience. Reviews highlight the 67-day refund window. They use it as a trial plan, deciding whether to reorder after two months.

    Mainstream consumers stress cost and refunds. They compare single bottle pricing against building a stack. Many say the combined formula saves money and shelf space. Positive notes mention responsive customer service. Negative notes focus on delayed shipping. Case studies often conclude that patience and realistic expectations shape satisfaction more than any one capsule.

    To read more verified stories and see what men in your age group report, follow the link below.

    Read Verified Experiences With PrimeGENIX Bone Complex

    Frequently Asked Questions About PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Reviews and Complaints

    What are the benefits of PrimeGENIX Bone Complex?

    It supports bone density, reduces bone loss, and enhances calcium absorption. It is tailored for men over 40.

    Can you prove that it works?

    The formula combines MCHA and nine nutrients supported by research. Individual results vary. No supplement guarantees outcomes.

    When will I see results?

    Bone changes take months. Plan for six to twelve months with follow-up scans.

    Can this help prevent fractures?

    It may support bone strength, but prevention depends on multiple factors including exercise and safety habits.

    Can it help recovery after surgery or accident?

    It may support nutrient intake, but recovery should be guided by a doctor’s plan.

    Are there side effects?

    Some users report digestive issues. High calcium or vitamin D intake carries risks. Always follow label directions.

    Why is there a 67-day money-back guarantee?

    It allows time to test the product risk-free. Return policies apply only to direct orders.

    How do I get the best deal?

    Bulk orders save the most, with free shipping in the U.S. Pricing changes over time, so confirm at checkout.

    Is it safe with other supplements?

    Discuss with your doctor to avoid overlaps in minerals and vitamins.

    Is this product vegetarian?

    No. MCHA comes from bovine bone sources.

    Can women take it?

    The formula targets men, but women can discuss with their doctor if it fits their needs.

    Where is it made?

    In the U.S. in cGMP-certified facilities.

    Does it auto-bill?

    Check the cart carefully. As of this review, no hidden rebills appear on the site.

    Is PrimeGENIX Bone Complex a scam?

    The refund policy, cGMP note, and disclosures indicate it is a legitimate product. Always order from the official site.

    Bonus Tips: How to Avoid PrimeGENIX Bone Complex Complaints

    Most complaints come from missed steps. You can prevent them with a few habits:

    Order direct from the official site.

    Third-party sellers often ship expired or counterfeit stock. Only direct orders qualify for the 67-day refund window. Save the official link in your browser bookmarks.

    Track your shipments.

    Save your order confirmation email. Click the tracking link daily until delivery. Use a carrier app if available. If the package stalls for more than three business days, call support with your order number.

    Keep all packaging.

    Refunds require returns in the original bottles. Do not throw anything out until the refund posts to your card. Photograph the box when it arrives and before you return it.

    Consult your doctor.

    Show the ingredient list to your provider before you start. This prevents interactions with prescriptions such as warfarin or diuretics. A baseline vitamin D test can guide dosing.

    Set expectations.

    Bone density does not shift in weeks. Commit to at least three months of daily use with training, diet, and sleep in place. Schedule a reminder around day 50 to review progress and decide whether to reorder.

    Avoid anonymous reviews.

    Check sources. Use reputable blogs, medical journals, or verified buyers. Anonymous comments without detail often distort expectations.

    Follow these steps and you reduce refund stress, shipping delays, and mismatched expectations.

    Secure Your Order With Official Protections

    Final Verdict: Should You Try PrimeGENIX Bone Complex in 2025?

    PrimeGENIX Bone Complex aims to fill a clear gap: men over 40 seeking bone health support. The formula uses microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite with nine added nutrients. It provides synergy for density, structure, and collagen. The cGMP manufacturing claim and U.S.-based support quality assurance. A 67-day refund window adds safety.

    Pros:

    • Tailored for men, with MCHA anda full nutrient profile

    • Backed by a refund guarantee and U.S. phone support

    • Simple once-daily dosing tied to a meal

    • Direct order system reduces counterfeit risk

    Cons:

    • Bone density improvements require months of consistency

    • Multi-capsule serving may frustrate some users

    • Vitamin K content is unsuitable for warfarin users

    • No instant results, leading to unmet expectations for some buyers

    Who should consider it? Active men in their 40s and 50s, men with a family history of fractures, or men seeking complete bone support in one formula. Who should avoid it? Those on blood thinners, men with a history of kidney stones without doctor clearance, or anyone unwilling to commit to daily use for months.

    Is it legit? The disclosures, refund terms, and transparent claims indicate legitimacy. It does not promise miracles. It positions itself as structured support inside a broader health plan.

    If your doctor agrees and you want an all-in-one supplement for bone support, PrimeGENIX Bone Complex is worth a trial run. Use the refund window as a risk-free safety net.

    Also Read: Comprehensive 2025 Guide to PrimeGENIX Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Reviews, Ingredients, Side Effects, Pricing, and Expert Safety Insights

    Contact Information

    • Company: PrimeGENIX

    • Parent Company: Leading Edge Health Inc. / Leading Edge Health Ltd.

    • U.S. Phone (Toll-Free): 1-866-968-6643

    • International Phone: 1-778-770-2961

    • International Alternate: +1-250-999-0414

    • Hours: Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time

    Disclaimers

    Publisher Responsibility Disclaimer: The publisher of this article has made every effort to ensure accuracy at the time of publication. We do not accept responsibility for errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided. Readers are encouraged to verify all details directly with the official source before making a purchase decision.

    FTC Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, a commission may be earned at no additional cost to you.

    FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. PrimeGENIX Bone Complex is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Results Disclaimer: Results vary based on diet, training, baseline bone density, and health status. No outcomes are guaranteed.

    Pricing Disclaimer: Pricing, promotions, and shipping terms change without notice. Always verify final costs on the official website before placing an order.

    Contact Information

    PrimeGENIX Customer Service
    1-866-698-6950

    Source: PrimeGENIX

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  • The Top 11 Protein Powders, According to My Stomach

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    Compare Top 11 Protein Powders

    More Protein Powders to Consider

    Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

    Naked Casein: With only one ingredient—micellar casein sourced from hormone-free skim milk—it’s about as clean as it gets. No added sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and no unnecessary additives. It’s cold-processed, to avoid any nastiness from chemicals or synthetic fillers, and it’s independently tested for both heavy metals and gluten. Each serving packs 26 grams of protein and 618 milligrams of calcium (about 48 percent of your daily value). But Naked Casein doesn’t contain lecithin, so it won’t dissolve as smoothly as other powders. The best way to mix is with a blender, but I couldn’t stomach the taste of this one.

    Seeq Clear Protein Powder: I was skeptical when I purchased Seeq Clear Protein, but I’m a sucker for anything watermelon-flavored. I was pleasantly surprised. It tastes like a creamier sports drink (I promise it’s better than that description sounds), and each serving has 22 grams of protein and 4.5 grams of BCAAs. There are zero grams of sugar. Like a lot of other clear protein powders, it’s often more expensive than its counterparts. But if lactose irritates your stomach or you want something more like juice and less like a milkshake, it’s worth trying—especially if you mix it with extra water, since it’s on the sweet side. Worth noting is that it takes forever to dissolve, so use a frother or allot extra shaking time. —Louryn Strampe

    Ghost Whey Protein Powder: Ghost is the protein powder for people who want their post-workout snack to taste like dessert. With flavors like Oreo, Cinnabon, and Chips Ahoy!, it’s arguably one of the best-tasting whey proteins on the market. Each scoop delivers 26 grams of protein (50 percent of the daily value) and blends well in shakes, oats, or even DIY protein ice cream. The trade-off here is a longer ingredient list that includes gums, high-fructose corn syrup, and titanium dioxide—a whitening pigment banned as a food additive in Europe.

    Image may contain Herbal Herbs Plant Food Sweets and Box

    Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

    Sakara Protein + Greens Super Powder: With 17 grams of plant-based protein per serving, Sakara’s Protein + Greens is just three shy of the 20-gram benchmark we aim for. The blend of pea, hemp, and pumpkin proteins is bolstered by a “super greens” mix of spirulina, wheatgrass, barley grass, and chlorella. Is it dramatically transforming my gut health? Probably not. But on days when my vegetable and protein intake is low, a scoop of this in my smoothie (plus some Greek yogurt for an extra 18 grams of protein) makes me feel a little less like a goblin surviving on iced coffee and string cheese.

    Wavelength Vanilla Protein Powder: In addition to 20 grams of pea protein per serving, Wavelength’s plant-based powder boasts trendy adaptogens and nootropics like maca root, ashwagandha, and Chaga mushroom extract. The brand doesn’t disclose how much of each is in the mix, so it’s hard to say if they’re doing much beyond adding to the price tag. The taste is deeply earthy, which makes it better suited for baking than chugging. Wavelength also makes Little Ripples, a protein powder formulated for kids. Reviews editor Adrienne So made a shake with it for her 8- and 10-year-olds, but it had a strange, chalky texture and a bit of a barnyard funk smell. They refused to drink it.

    BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer, Muscle Mass Gainer Protein Powder: If you’re trying to bulk up or struggle to hit your calorie goals, BSN True Mass is worth considering. This mass gainer packs 1,200 calories per serving, with 50 grams of protein and 215 grams of carbohydrates. Its protein blend includes whey concentrate, casein, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, hydrolyzed whey isolate, and micellar casein, so you get a mix of fast and slow-digesting proteins. It also delivers 450 milligrams of calcium and 880 milligrams of potassium, which is a bonus if you want to squeeze in some micronutrients. It tastes great—the strawberry milkshake flavor is spot-on—but these are two scoops at 310 grams, so you’ll need to be comfortable with the jumbo serving size. I can’t fully endorse the formula because it’s packed with artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, as well as some iffy additives, including maltodextrin and a gum blend (cellulose, guar, gum Arabic, and xanthan) that might not sit well with everyone. If you have a sensitive stomach, you might want to pass. This one brings protein farts to a new level.

    Aloha 12oz Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Drink (Pack of 12): Aloha’s protein powder is still on my testing docket, but I have tried the brand’s ready-to-drink shakes. The chocolate sea salt is surprisingly tasty; it’s creamy and rich, but there’s a faint aftertaste. I sometimes use the vanilla flavor as a milk base for smoothies, and there’s also a coconut flavor I haven’t gotten my hands on yet. Each serving packs 20 grams of plant-based protein.

    Accessories to Try

    The Beast personal blender and cup

    Courtesy of Beast

    Beast Mega 1200 for $199: If you’re looking to level up your smoothie game, Mega’s 1,200-watt motor cuts through frozen fruit, powders, and fibrous foods with an ease that personal blenders can’t match. One button, a timed cycle, and consistent chunk-free results. The three included Tritan vessels are designed with ribbed interiors that boost turbulence for silkier smoothies. Plus, the drinking lid and straw system transforms your blender into a travel cup without the extra dishes. It’s available in five colors—cloud white, carbon black, navy, sand, sage, and charcoal—and backed by a two-year warranty.

    Vitamix Ascent X5 for $750: The Vitamix Ascent X5 is expensive, but if you’re in the market for an all-purpose blender, this is the one that makes smoothies feel like an art form. It’s got 10 preset programs (smoothie bowls, nut butters, nondairy milks, and more), which means your protein recipes can get as creative as you want. It has a tamper for the thickest of shakes, and the on-screen indicator tells you exactly when to step in. Plus, if your blend needs more mixing, hit the “add 15 seconds” button. The self-cleaning mode is my favorite feature; it’s not groundbreaking, but I’d rather gouge my eyes out with a dull chopstick than scrub post-smoothie gunk off a blender. Plus, it’s backed by a 10-year warranty, which makes it an investment worth considering.

    Ninja Blast Portable Blender for $53: Finally, for an affordable option, you might want to consider Ninja’s tiny portable blender, which charges via USB-C. The motor isn’t super powerful, and the battery isn’t long-lived (one charge lasts long enough to thoroughly blend one yogurt smoothie with frozen berries), but this blender is affordable, the vessel and lid are dishwasher-safe, and it’s tiny enough to have a permanent home on editor Adrienne So’s counter. She has been using this daily for a year to make morning smoothies from Greek yogurt, milk, and frozen berries and bananas with no issues.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Protein Powder Good for You?

    It depends. If you’re eating a balanced diet, you’re likely getting all the protein your body needs. Whole foods—nuts, seeds, eggs, low-fat dairy, legumes, and lean meats—offer protein along with fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients that a scoop of powder simply can’t match. Protein powders are not meal replacements.

    That said, high-quality protein powder may be beneficial if you are recovering from surgery or an injury, have difficulty eating due to illness or aging, or need extra protein for wound healing. It’s also useful if you’re following a strict diet (like veganism) and aren’t getting enough protein through food alone. For athletes, protein powder can be a convenient way to refuel post-workout because the body absorbs liquid protein quickly. Unless you fall into one of these categories, you don’t need a protein powder.

    Which is the Best Type of Protein Powder?

    When you’re looking at different protein sources, also keep in mind whether you’re getting a complete or incomplete protein. All of our picks are complete proteins, meaning that they provide all nine essential amino acids that the body doesn’t product itself.

    Whey protein: Whey protein comes from milk during the cheese-making process, and it’s one of the most efficient ways to get protein into your system. It’s packed with essential amino acids, meaning your body can absorb and use it quickly—great for muscle recovery and growth. There are three whey subtypes, each with its own pros and cons.

    • Whey protein concentrate: The least processed version, typically 70-80 percent protein, with the rest made up of carbohydrates, fats, and lactose. It retains beneficial compounds like immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, which may support immunity. It’s also the cheapest.
    • Whey protein isolate: Most of the fat and lactose is filtered out, leaving a protein that’s about 90 percent protein and lower in carbohydrates. This is a solid choice if you want more protein per scoop or have a mild lactose intolerance.
    • Whey protein hydrolysate: Whey protein hydrolysate is predigested using enzymes, making it the quickest to absorb. It’s often used in medical nutrition and by elite athletes who need rapid muscle recovery. It’s also the priciest.

    Casein protein: Casein is the other major protein in milk. When consumed, it forms a gel in your stomach, meaning your body gets a slow, steady release of amino acids. This makes a great option for pre-bedtime protein or keeping hunger at bay between meals. There are two main subtypes:

    • Micellar casein: The least processed, offering sustained protein release.
    • Casein hydrolysate: Predigested for faster absorption, though still slower than whey.

    Pea protein: This plant-based protein is made from ground yellow split peas and is high in essential amino acids, including BCAAs. It’s dairy-, gluten-, and soy-free, making it great for people with allergies. Technically, it’s a complete protein, but it’s lower in methionine, so some experts would argue it’s not as complete as whey.

    Brown rice protein: Brown rice protein is high in fiber, easy to digest, and hypoallergenic, but it lacks some essential amino acids (specifically lysine), making it an incomplete protein. That’s why it’s often blended with pea protein for a more balanced amino acid profile. It’s gentle on the stomach and good for people with food sensitivities.

    Beef protein isolate: Meat contains protein! Beef protein isolate is made from cow tissue that has been extracted and filtered into powder.

    What Are the Potential Harms of Protein Powder?

    While high-protein diets have been studied extensively, the long-term effects of regularly consuming protein in powdered form remain unclear.

    • If you’ve ever chugged a protein shake and immediately regretted it, you’re not alone. Dairy-based blends (whey and casein) can cause bloating, gas, and other gastrointestinal issues—especially for those with lactose intolerance or sensitivities. Plant-based protein powders aren’t always more digestible, as some contain sugar alcohols, gums, or thickeners that can also upset your stomach.
    • Because it’s classified as a dietary supplement, the FDA doesn’t regulate protein powder the way it does food or medication. That means it’s up to manufacturers to evaluate their own products for safety, which leaves plenty of room for inconsistencies and contamination.
    • A report from the Clean Label Project tested 160 powders for contaminants and found that many contained heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium, as well as BPA (a plastic additive) and pesticides. Organic powders showed three times more lead and twice as much cadmium compared to non-organic options. Plant-based powders averaged three times more lead than whey-based alternatives. And cocoa-containing powders contained four times more lead than vanilla. These toxins can creep into powders through contaminated soil (since many plant-based proteins come from crops) or manufacturing processes that introduce pollutants along the way.

    Not all protein powders are contaminated, but it’s worth checking third-party testing results (like those published by Clean Label Project) before incorporating one into your diet.

    What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing A Protein Powder?

    Protein source: Whey, casein, soy, pea, brown rice, egg white—protein powder comes in many forms and caters to different needs (build muscle, weight loss, weight gain, post-workout recovery, etc.). Your choice depends on dietary preferences and your personal goals.

    Protein content: If your goal is muscle growth, aim for 20 to 30 grams per scoop. Otherwise, match the amount of protein to your dietary or fitness needs.

    Processing method: Concentrates are the least processed and have more nutrients. Isolates tend to have higher protein content and fewer carbs and fats, while hydrolysates digest the fastest.

    Allergens and dietary preferences: Make sure your protein powder aligns with your diet. If you’re allergic to dairy, soy, gluten, or nuts, double-check labels as many powders sneak in allergens. If you’ve had digestive issues before, start with a small quantity to test your tolerance before going all in.

    Additives and fillers: Watch for artificial sweeteners, gums, and thickening agents that can cause bloating and other gastrointestinal issues.

    Flavors: Powders now come in every flavor from matcha to fruity cereal milk. Choose a flavor you’ll actually drink.

    Brand reputation and certifications: Some brands are rigorous about quality control, third-party testing, and ingredient sourcing, and others aren’t. If you want peace of mind, look for certifications like Informed Sport and NSF Certified for Sport, which verify that the product contains what it advertises and is free of banned substances.

    Cost: Compare cost per serving instead of just the upfront price.

    How We Test Protein Powders

    Image may contain Cabinet Furniture Can and Tin

    Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

    I’ve been downing protein powders for years, but for this guide, I put each one through a fresh round of testing. Each powder was sampled at least three times to assess taste, texture, and mixability. I mixed them with water, milk, and non-dairy alternatives. I also baked them into muffins and blended into the occasional smoothie because not all of us like our protein straight.

    I prioritized powders with minimal to no additives and full transparency in sourcing—no unnecessary fillers, gums, or questionable sweeteners. Solubility was a major consideration, too. I also scrutinized manufacturing practices and third-party testing. Certifications (like NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Choice) mattered. Every pick is also a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.

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  • Helping Dogs and Cats Adjust to Vision Loss | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Vision loss presents unique challenges for dogs and cats. Understanding the signs and managing the transition can greatly enhance their quality of life. This guide offers practical strategies to support furry friends experiencing vision changes.

    Recognizing Signs of Vision Loss

    Many animals adapt remarkably well to gradual vision loss. Subtle signs are often overlooked. Look for behaviors like hesitation during walks, difficulty catching treats, or confusion in familiar spaces. Sudden changes often manifest as disorientation or fear. If a companion struggles to navigate their environment, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian. Early detection leads to better management options.

    Creating a Safe Environment

    Making the home environment safe is essential. Maintain a consistent layout; avoid moving furniture frequently. Use tactile aids like carpet runners near stairs. These help create familiar pathways. Introduce scent cues in different rooms. This guides furry friends and enhances their confidence. Ensure any new scents do not cause adverse reactions; discontinue if necessary.

    Supporting Daily Activities

    Blind animals can still enjoy their favorite activities. Engage them in playtime using sound-based toys. Keep routines consistent to provide a sense of security. Make noise when approaching, especially if they are resting. This helps them feel secure and aware of surroundings. With patience and support, they can continue to thrive despite vision challenges.

    Consulting a Veterinarian

    Regular veterinary check-ups are vital. A veterinarian can identify underlying causes of vision loss. Treatment options may include medications or surgery, depending on the condition. Discussing these options ensures companions receive the best care possible. Staying informed about health changes allows for proactive management.

    Consider nutritional supplements rich in antioxidants. These support overall health and may slow degeneration. Omega-3 fatty acids promote eye health and reduce inflammation. Regular exercise maintains physical and mental fitness, fostering a positive outlook.

    Supporting vision-impaired companions requires understanding and action. Recognizing signs early, making environmental adjustments, and maintaining routines foster confidence and security. With veterinary guidance and holistic care, furry friends can live fulfilling lives despite vision challenges.


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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • RFK Jr. promised to ‘Make Our Children Healthy Again.’ Here’s how he plans to do it

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    (CNN) — President Donald Trump’s strategy to ‘Make America Healthy Again’ includes investigating vaccine injuries and pharmaceutical practices but stops short of new regulatory action, for now.

    US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled the MAHA strategy on Tuesday, joined by Agriculture Department Secretary Brooke Rollins, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, and other top Trump officials.

    The report hews closely to a draft document circulated in August that cites earlier Trump administration announcements — developing a definition for ultraprocessed foods, educating the public about synthetic kratom — but largely bypassed industry crackdowns.

    Language around pesticides strategy also remained unchanged. Environmental and food activists had rallied for the administration to include steps to reduce pesticide usage and probe potential health risks of commonly used chemicals such as RoundUp.

    The report says that USDA, EPA and the National Institutes of Health will develop a framework to study cumulative exposures to chemicals including pesticides and microplastics. USDA and EPA will also invest in new farming approaches to reduce chemical use, and EPA will launch a public awareness campaign about the limited risk of approved products.

    The commission’s first report this May suggested a broad range of factors driving chronic disease in the US, including ultraprocessed foods, environmental exposures, and overprescription of pharmaceuticals like antidepressants.

    The report noted previous announcements that HHS, the NIH and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are studying the causes of autism. Kennedy had previously promised some answers on the root causes in September; NIH is expected to announce autism research grants this month.

    Recent reports suggest that HHS will issue a report that links the development of autism to taking Tylenol during pregnancy.

    Medicines and vaccines

    Kennedy has drawn criticism for suggesting antidepressants, particularly those that are part of a family known as SSRIs are as addictive as heroin and can be dangerous. Following the August 27 shooting in Minneapolis, he told Fox News that HHS is launching studies “on the potential contribution of some of the SSRI drugs and some of the other psychiatric drugs that might be contributing to violence.”

    SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are the most prescribed class of antidepressants for depression, anxiety disorders and many other mental health conditions. Several SSRIs have been on the market in the United States since the 1990s, including Prozac, Zoloft and Celexa. Experts agree that there is no scientific evidence or correlation between these drugs and violence towards others.

    Tuesday’s report states that HHS will assemble a working group of federal officials to evaluate SSRI prescribing patterns, specifically among children. HHS will also “evaluate the therapeutic harms and benefits of current diagnostic thresholds,” or the current common practices doctors use to diagnose patients with mental health disorders.

    Dr. Theresa Miskimen Rivera, president of the American Psychiatric Association said access to care, not over-medication is the bigger problem when it comes to helping kids’ mental health in the country, and there is no mention of the issue in the report. The report said addressing a child’s nutrition, screen time, and exercise can improve their mental health, but can’t address everything. “Psychiatric conditions are complex in nature,” she said. Extreme poverty, post traumatic stress disorder, trauma-related factors should also be addressed, but there is no mention in the report of any of those issues either.

    “In terms of over medication, that’s not what we do. We have a comprehensive evaluation and we are evidence based. We diagnose than create a comprehensive treatment plan, “ Miskimen Rivera told CNN. “Medication can save lives, not only in children, but in adults and elderly.”

    When asked about whether or not the commission chose to consider gun violence – the leading cause of death for children – as one of the issues to be investigated, Kennedy doubled down on the issue of prescription drugs, saying “We are doing studies now, or initiating studies to look at the correlation and the connection, potential connection between over medicating our kids and this violence.”

    HHS will also work with the White House Domestic Policy Council on a new vaccine framework that, the report said, will ensure “America has the best childhood vaccine schedule” and ensure “scientific and medical freedom.”

    The report comes as Kennedy continues to defend his shakeup of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention over vaccine policy, including the ouster of CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez.

    The administration will also increase oversight of “deceptive” direct-to-consumer advertising of pharmaceutical products, including from social media influencers and telehealth companies, it said.

    Food policy stays the course

    FDA will continue work on developing a definition for ultraprocessed foods, but the report bypasses recommendations, like those of former FDA Director Dr. David Kessler, to essentially order certain additives off the market until they are reviewed.

    Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, director of Tufts Food is Medicine Institute said a definition of ultraprocessed foods would be “really important.” With more than half of calories in the food supply coming from ultraprocessed foods, addressing this and other issues involving the nation’s diet would mean a “massive fight with the industry and is going to be incredibly controversial, but is much needed.”

    “Overall, this is really quite thorough, quite specific, and even if parts of this are accomplished, this could have tremendous positive impact for Americans,” Mozaffarian told CNN.

    Other experts, like Marion Nestle, agreed the report was ambitious in scope, but noted it fell short on regulatory action. “What’s still missing is regulation. So much of this is voluntary, work with, promote, partner,” said Nestle, who is the Paulette Goddard professor emerita of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University.

    The report also nods to new, user-friendly dietary guidelines expected later this year. Kennedy has promised a vastly shortened set of recommendations that will emphasize whole foods.

    The commission also cited ongoing work to reduce ultraprocessed foods in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Head Start.

    While the report also touches on agriculture deregulation with the aim of making it easier for small farms to get greater access to markets and schools, Ken Cook, co-founder of the Environmental Working Group, a health advocacy organization said the report abandons earlier MAHA promises to ban toxic pesticides and instead “echoes the pesticide industry’s talking points.”

    “Secretary Kennedy and President Trump cynically convinced millions they’d protect children from harmful farm chemicals – promises now exposed as hollow,” Cook said in a statement.

    There were minor changes from the draft document leaked in August. For instance, the August 6 draft stated that the FDA and other agencies will crack down on “Illegal Chinese Vapes,” while the final version promises enforcement on vapes more broadly.

    “We support the goal of making children healthier and addressing and preventing chronic disease, but unfortunately, the recommendations fall short in some really critical ways,” Laura Kate Bender, vice president nationwide advocacy and public policy for the American Lung Association told CNN.

    “They continue to cast doubt on vaccines, one of the most, important, proven public health interventions that we can have for kids health. They don’t address some major contributors to diseases in kids like pollution, tobacco use, beyond the mention of vaping, and this report is coming out at the same time that we’re continuing to see dramatic cuts in staff and funding of a lot of the programs that could make the good parts of the report a reality.”

    The report’s emphasis on kids’ health can help overall, Dr. Michelle Macy, director of the Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research and Evaluation Center in Chicago told CNN. “I’m really trying to look for bright spots in this report, and I think that the focus on data and infrastructure for us to be able to answer big questions about what environmental and food exposures and medication exposures do to shape the trajectory of someone’s health and chronic disease across the lifespan is something that has promise and potential.”

    Dr. Richard Besser, pediatrician and president and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation said that having a focus on preventing chronic disease in children is a good thing, but he said, with Kennedy’s track record that includes firing thousands of federal health employees, slashing millions in health research funding, dismantling entire offices that managed important issues like smoking and chronic disease specifically, in addition to his “assault on vaccinations” will undermine any potential good of this kind of report.

    “Neither RFK Jr.’s record, nor his policies outlined in the report give me confidence that he is going to make any difference whatsoever on chronic diseases in children,” Besser told CNN.

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  • Should I Take Magnesium Supplements? Everything You Need to Know

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    Suddenly, everyone is obsessed with magnesium supplements. It’s the key ingredient in #sleepygirlmocktails, powders stirred into tart cherry juice and prebiotic soda, a wellness cocktail for anxious millennials. Your coworkers are popping magnesium glycinate before bed instead of melatonin, because it allegedly cures insomnia, constipation, and existential dread. Folks seem especially concerned with optimizing their poop and pillow time. In the past year, Google searches for “which magnesium is best for sleep” and “which magnesium makes you poop” have more than doubled.

    Magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. It’s also one of the most abundant minerals in the human body, running more than 300 biochemical reactions, from protein synthesis to nerve function and blood sugar regulation. It supports bone structure and helps shuttle calcium and potassium across cell membranes, a process that allows for muscle contractions and normal heart rhythms.

    You can get it from foods like legumes, leafy vegetables, and whole grains, or from fortified foods and dietary supplements. The question is: Do you need to supplement?

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    Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

    While an essential mineral for overall health, many people don’t get enough magnesium. This is partly because magnesium is predominantly found in high-fiber foods, and a significant portion of Americans do not consume sufficient fiber, according to registered dietitian Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes. Research confirms this: More than 90 percent of women and 97 percent of men fail to meet the recommended daily intake for dietary fiber.

    Older adults are particularly at risk, as the body’s ability to absorb magnesium decreases with age. Health conditions like Crohn’s disease or kidney disease, alcohol use disorder, and the use of diuretics can all lead to magnesium depletion.

    Anderson-Haynes notes that a magnesium deficiency (also known as hypomagnesemia) can result in a range of symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, constipation, tremors, heart palpitations, and muscle soreness. Chronic magnesium deficiency can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, osteoporosis, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

    Benefits of Magnesium Supplements

    There are several forms of magnesium supplements, including:

    • Magnesium citrate: Often taken as a remedy for occasional constipation.
    • Magnesium glycinate: Often taken for better sleep and reduced anxiety.
    • Magnesium oxide: Often taken for constipation or indigestion.
    • Magnesium l-threonate: Often taken for better sleep, cognitive function, and reduced stress.
    • Magnesium chloride: Often taken as an electrolyte replenisher and for its laxative effect.

    Supplements are most useful for people with a confirmed deficiency, but early research suggests possible benefits for specific conditions, including migraines, insomnia, and cardiovascular disease.

    “It’s really overlooked that magnesium can help with menstrual cycle irregularity in terms of making sure that you’re not having severe cramping,” says Anderson-Haynes, who adds it may also benefit women in perimenopause and menopause. Clinically, it may be part of the treatment for pregnancy complications like preeclampsia and eclampsia.

    Can You Take Too Much?

    The recommended dietary allowance is 320 milligrams per day for women and 420 milligrams per day for men. These are amounts most people can reach with a balanced diet; healthy kidneys regulate magnesium levels, excreting excess when magnesium intake is high and conserving it when it’s low.

    Daily supplements under 350 milligrams are generally considered safe for healthy adults. “If you take too much magnesium, you’ll probably get diarrhea, because it loosens the bowels,” Anderson-Haynes says. Other side effects include nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, and, at very high levels of magnesium (usually from overusing laxatives or antacids), low blood pressure, muscle cramps, breathing problems, and, in rare cases, cardiac arrest. People with kidney disease are at the highest risk of toxicity.

    Should You Supplement?

    For most healthy adults, magnesium supplements aren’t essential. If you struggle with migraines, insomnia, or other conditions where research suggests health benefits, they may be worth trying—but first talk to a health care professional.

    Otherwise, focus on magnesium-rich foods. These include but are not limited to: legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas), leafy greens (artichokes, kale, spinach), whole grains (oats, barley, quinoa), nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts), fruit (bananas, avocado, dried apricots), and soy products (tofu, soy milk, edamame).

    If you do decide to take any dietary supplements, “look for a seal or certification that says GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or NSF,” says Anderson-Haynes, stressing the importance of third-party tests and verifications, considering the FDA doesn’t regulate dietary supplements in the US.

    Thorne

    Magnesium Bisglycinate

    Pure Encapsulations

    Magnesium Glycinate

    Meet the Experts

    • Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, MS, RDN, CDCES, is a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and founder of 360Girls&Women.

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  • Smart Swaps and Budget-Friendly Ingredients for Heart-Healthy Meals

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    (Family Features) – Rising food costs can make healthy eating a challenge for many families. In fact, a poll conducted by Research!America found about 60% of Americans cite the cost of healthy food as their single biggest barrier to achieving better nutrition.

    “Food is deeply rooted to family and community,” said Arlen Vanessa Marin, M.S., R.D., a national volunteer for the American Heart Association. “Recipes are passed down through generations, but as grocery prices rise, finding creative ways to stretch your budget while maintaining a nutritious diet is key. Simple swaps – like homemade vinaigrettes instead of sugary bottled dressings, frozen veggies instead of fresh or lentils instead of processed meat – can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor.”

    Consider these simple tips from the experts at the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, to help you enjoy your favorite meals while keeping both your heart and wallet happy.

    Protein Without the Price Tag

    If you’re looking to add more protein without overspending, try these affordable, nutrient-packed options:

    • Beans and other legumes are protein-packed, high-fiber choices for heart-healthy meals. Add them to soups, stews or salads, or enjoy them as dips with whole-grain crackers or tortillas. Choose canned, no-salt-added varieties for a quick and healthy option.
    • Tofu and tempeh are versatile, plant-based staples that are rich in protein. Add silken tofu to miso soup, stir-fry firm tofu with garlic for a heart-smart meal or add tempeh to noodle dishes and curries.
    • Ground turkey or chicken are leaner, often more affordable alternatives to ground beef. For a budget-friendly twist, try them in dishes like turkey picadillo or homemade tacos.

    Better Grains for Your Heart

    White rice is a staple in many diets, but it can spike blood sugar. When refrigerated and reheated, it can increase resistant starch while also raising the risk of harmful bacteria. Consider these ways to keep it heart-smart:

    • Brown rice is a fiber-rich alternative to white rice that pairs well with almost any dish.
    • Quinoa is another protein-rich grain that works in soups, salads and side dishes.
    • Barley is used in many Asian soups as a whole-grain swap.

    Canned, Dried and Frozen Alternatives 

    Healthy eating doesn’t mean you have to buy everything fresh, especially when fresh food isn’t readily available. Canned, dried and frozen foods can be just as nutritious and help eliminate costly food waste from spoilage as they stay edible longer. Check nutrition labels for low-sodium, no-salt-added and no-sugar-added options.

    • Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at peak ripeness and frozen to lock in nutrients. Use them in stir-fries, soups, smoothies or as quick side dishes.
    • Canned tuna is packed with omega-3s, wallet-friendly and easy to mix with salads, sandwiches or in brown rice bowls.

    To find more tips and budget-friendly recipes, visit recipes.heart.org.

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  • Surprising food sources to get more calcium in your diet

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    Not a milk drinker? Not a problem. There are still expert-approved ways to get calcium in your diet.

    It’s crucial to get enough calcium, because it’s essential for bone health. The mineral makes up much of the structure of bones and teeth, according to the National Institutes of Health. It’s also important for muscle function and nerve signaling, registered dietitian nutritionist Meggie Connelly told CBS News. 

    For adults, the NIH recommends about 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium daily — but, dairy milk isn’t the only way to get it.

    Other dairy products like yogurt and cheese also contain calcium, as do non-dairy milks fortified with calcium, Connelly said.

    Tofu made with calcium is another way to get both the bone-supporting mineral plus protein. 

    Other calcium-fortified options include fruit juices and cereals, the NIH adds. For example, the NIH estimates one cup of orange juice fortified with calcium provides the same amount of calcium (about 27% of your daily value) as 8 ounces of low fat yogurt.

    And one cup of nonfat milk is about the same as an equal serving of calcium-fortified soy milk, according to the institute’s estimates. 

    Qianzhi Jiang, a registered dietitian and owner of The Nutrition Changer, said canned fish with bones, like salmon or sardines, also provide calcium. And, you can even get it from some vegetables, Jiang added, like kale, broccoli and bok choy.

    If you don’t know where you stand with your calcium intake, Connelly said if your plate looks colorful and balanced most of the time (think, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, proteins, dairy or calcium-fortified plant milks), “you’re probably in a good place.”

    But, some people can still fall short on nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and iron despite balanced meals — “especially for women, those with certain health conditions or plant-based eaters,” Connelly added. 

    If you’re worried about your calcium levels, experts suggested consulting your doctor about supplements.

    “Supplements should be viewed as supplemental sources of vitamins and minerals. We should prioritize meeting nutritional goals from natural food sources,” Jiang said. “This helps us get the most benefits of all sorts of nutrients while minimizing the risk of overconsumption.”

    Sara Moniuszko

    Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.com. Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper’s wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News’ HealthWatch.

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