Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

Ask a CLC Blog- Infant Feeding and Sleep

Newborn feeding and sleep can be quite a mystery for new parents. Both are essential for infant wellbeing and are closely connected. In this article, we will look at the connection between infant feeding and sleep, patterns and cues to watch for, the importance of safe sleep, and the power of a bedtime routine. How […]

Eat From the Earth: The Benefits of a Whole Food Diet

What You Need to Know  As the winter season comes to an end, and the season of renewal “springs forth”, days grow longer, the weather warms, gardens begin to wake, and bountiful fresh produce begins to reappear on the dinner table. The month of April is recognized as National Garden Month and Earth Month, making […]

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 […]

Guidelines for Proper Breast Milk Expression, Storage, and Handling

Breast milk provides complete nutrition for infants, whether a baby feeds directly at the breast or is given expressed milk. Breast milk expression is the process of removing milk using hands or a breast pump, and may be medically necessary in some situations. Premature birth, certain medical conditions, or periods of separation all may warrant […]

Ask a CLC Blog: Breastfeeding Basics

Introduction  Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both a mother and her baby. Along with being a complete source of nutrients for the baby, breastfeeding is also associated with improved health outcomes for mothers. While the benefits are clear, many new mothers face challenges when beginning their breastfeeding journey. Offering any amount of breastmilk is beneficial, […]

New Year, Less Stress: Diabetes and Caregiving

The New Year can bring new challenges for caregivers. Caregivers balancing a diabetes diagnosis and caregiver responsibilities should be mindful of limiting high-stress situations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people living with diabetes are twice as likely to experience depression or other mental health challenges compared to those at a […]

Uncovering Nutrition Misinformation

Introduction: With the rapid rise of media and its influence – including television, the internet, and mobile applications – society’s wellness culture has become increasingly oversaturated with information related to fad diets, trends, and presumed quick fixes. Amidst the overwhelming influx of “health-related” noise, it can be difficult to distinguish what is fact from fiction, […]

Building a Healthy Smoothie

Introduction Finding healthy food options at the store or at home can be challenging. Smoothies can be a great choice when you need something quick, easy, satisfying, and nourishing to fuel your body. When you think of smoothies, fruits and vegetables often come to mind. While fruits and vegetables are great foundations for a smoothie, […]

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, […]

Healthy Choices, Successful Schools: Making Smart Snacks Work

Smart Snacks help schools support student health, improve focus, and promote lifelong healthy eating habits. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank Why Smart Snacks Matter Students spend about seven hours a day at school and can get up to half of their daily calories during the school day. That means small changes in snack choices […]