Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

Microplastics and Health: What You Need to Know  

What are Microplastics? Microplastics are defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters (mm) in size, originating from larger pieces of plastic that break down over time through various processes. Due to their small size, the plastics are often difficult for the human eye to detect. However, the impact they leave does not go unnoticed. […]

How Caring for Plants Can Improve Your Well-Being

A toddler holding a bucket of flowers in the sun.

Gardening and caring for plants is much more than a hobby. While there are many well-known health benefits of having plants in and around your home, including the physical activity involved in gardening and nutritional value of consuming produce harvested from the garden, there are many other ways tending to plants can support our overall […]

The Health Benefits of Nature

The world is filled with nature. Natural environments, ranging from forests and coastal areas to community parks, gardens, and even indoor spaces with plants, are an integral part of daily life. Beyond their aesthetic value, these environments are increasingly recognized as contributors to human health and wellbeing. Overview of Nature and Health A growing body […]

Understanding RSV: How to Protect Your Family and Community

Discuss RSV prevention with your provider to stay one step ahead. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank What is RSV? Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms and does not usually cause severe illness in healthy adults and children. However, […]

Growing Healthier Families Through Home Gardening

Home gardening is more than a passion; it can be a powerful tool for building healthier families. Studies show that growing vegetables at home can lead to improved nutrition, encourage physical activity, and support emotional well-being. Beyond the overall health benefits, gardening together can strengthen family bonds and help ease the financial strain of food […]

Summer Safety with Diabetes

Having water on hand is one of the easiest ways to stay hydrated in the summer. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank, 2020, Clemson Extension With warmer weather and longer days, the summer months provide more opportunities for outdoor activities. But before planning that trip to the beach or afternoon hike, make sure you are […]

Winter’s Toll – Why We’re More Susceptible to Illness

One thing is certain: we are in the heart of cold and flu season. But have you ever wondered why we seem more susceptible to getting sick during the winter months? Research shows that spending more time indoors, dry air, and frigid temperatures could all be to blame. Let’s dive deeper into these factors and […]