Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

Ask a CLC Blog: Supportive Nutrition for Breastfeeding Moms

Introduction Postpartum maternal nutrition is a cornerstone of breastfeeding success. Breastfeeding and lactation increase a new mother’s energy and nutrient requirements, not only to produce breastmilk, but also to support her body and health during recovery from childbirth. Adequate nutrition influences the quantity of breast milk and ensures that infants receive the essential nutrients required […]

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 […]

High Blood Sugar and Hunger

Lee en español What You Need to Know Polyphagia, also known as hyperphagia, is a medical term for excessive or insatiable hunger, even after a meal. This phenomenon is commonly experienced among individuals working to manage a diagnosis of diabetes and can present a significant barrier to effective diabetes self-management. Persistent feelings of hunger may […]

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, […]

Neuropathy: Increasing Awareness of Nervous System-Related Complications from Diabetes

The Nervous System The nervous system is responsible for sending messages throughout the body via electrical signals. These electrical signals instruct our bodies to perform various tasks, such as walking, talking, thinking, and digesting food. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system. The nervous system is comprised of nerve cells known […]

Getting Restful Sleep with Diabetes: A Guide to Practicing Good Sleep Hygiene

Sleep: An Overview Sleep is an essential component of human health and well-being. On average, individuals spend approximately 1/3 (33%) of their lives asleep, underscoring the critical role sleep plays in maintaining normal physiological and cognitive function.  Without sufficient sleep, the human body cannot sustain its optimal performance or maintain long-term health. This is because […]

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, […]

The Intersection of Elder Abuse and Diabetes 

Elder abuse is a serious and often overlooked public health issue. Estimates of elder abuse vary, but systematic reviews and population studies consistently show that abuse and neglect are under-reported and affect a substantial number of older adults. Elder abuse is defined as intentional or negligent action(s) by a trusted adult or caregiver that induces […]

Pandemic Influenza

Get Informed An influenza (flu) pandemic is a worldwide outbreak of a novel influenza virus. Novel viruses can impact populations due to a lack of immunity and access to readily available vaccines. Pandemics differ from seasonal outbreaks of influenza that occur every year. Seasonal influenza is caused by influenza virus types to which people have […]

Los Edulcorantes No Nutritivos

This article is also available in English: Non-Nutritive Sweeteners ¿Qué son los edulcorantes no nutritivos? Los edulcorantes no nutritivos son agentes edulcorantes que tienen una mayor intensidad edulcorante y un menor contenido calórico que los edulcorantes calóricos como la sacarosa o el jarabe de maíz. Los edulcorantes no nutritivos pueden derivarse de plantas o hierbas, […]

Debunking Common Breastfeeding Myths 

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the gold standard for infant nutrition, offering important health benefits for both babies and mothers. Despite its many advantages, misinformation about breastfeeding continues to circulate, often leaving parents in uncertainty. Access to accurate, evidence-based information is essential for making informed choices. In this article, we will debunk some common myths […]