Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

Fast Food and Diabetes: How to Make Informed Choices

When choosing healthier options at fast-food restaurants, you can enjoy the convenience while continuing to effectively self-manage your blood sugar. Image Credit: Conner Russell Fast food is convenient, affordable, and often part of a busy lifestyle. However, many fast-food meals are high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars and are served in large portion sizes, […]

The Science of Connection: Why Relationships Matter for Your Health

Group of adults walking together in a park.

Walking with others is a simple way to stay active while also building meaningful social connections. Photo Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank Human beings are social creatures. Our brains are wired to seek connection not only for enjoyment but also as a means of survival. Research suggests that social connection, which refers to how people […]

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 […]

Stress and the Autonomic Nervous System

Everyone experiences periods of stress throughout their life. When stress levels remain high, they can cause elevated blood pressure and increased glucose (blood sugar) levels, both of which are risk factors for chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Stress can also lead to unhealthy coping behaviors, including overeating and excessive alcohol consumption, which further […]

Fit and Busy

Staying Active with a Packed Schedule It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we have a hectic schedule. However, making time for physical activity is easier than it may seem. There are many ways to be active and incorporate healthy movement in your day that do not involve much time but will still have a […]

Busy Body, Healthy Plate: Balancing Nutrition in a Fast-Paced World

Busy lives often result in less attention to balanced nutrition. However, there are many small changes that you can implement to make meeting your nutrition goals possible. The USDA gives some basic guidelines and encourages eating nutrient-dense foods across all food groups. A healthy diet includes vegetables, fruits, dairy, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy […]