FOR YOUR HEALTH: Still Debating Whether to Get a Flu Shot? Most Americans Already Have a Plan

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It’s a healthy idea to get your annual flu vaccine before flu season starts.

(NAPSI)—As the seasons begin to shift, many people start thinking about their annual health routines – including vaccinations. While some consider a flu shot part of their yearly care, others may feel it’s still too early to think about it. But health experts agree that getting a flu shot every year is the best way to help protect yourself and your family from getting the disease.

According to a survey commissioned by CVS Health®, more than 60 percent of consumers say they are likely to get a flu shot this season. That percentage has remained consistent over the past few years, suggesting that flu vaccination is becoming a regular component of preventive care for a growing number of people.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older, with rare exceptions, receive an annual flu vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for individuals at higher risk of serious illness, including adults 65 and older, infants and young children, people who are pregnant and those with chronic or immunocompromising health conditions.

Why timing matters

Planning ahead is key when it comes to staying protected. According to the CDC, the timing of flu season is difficult to predict, and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Typically, it’s important to get your annual flu vaccination in September or October as it’s best to be vaccinated before flu begins spreading in your community. It’s important not to wait until flu season is in full swing or when there is an outbreak in your area to get the vaccine, since it takes about two weeks for your body to build up protection after getting a flu shot.

In the survey, 65 percent of those planning to get vaccinated said they intend to do so before November. Many people were motivated by a desire to protect their loved ones and community, while others were simply following a yearly routine or medical guidance.

One visit, multiple vaccinations

Now is also a good time to get other recommended vaccines. The CDC states that it’s safe to receive the flu vaccine alongside other immunizations, such as those for COVID-19, shingles or RSV. To help, CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations let you schedule multiple vaccines in one appointment and to book for up to four people at a time, making it easier for people and families to plan ahead.

Flu vaccines are updated every year

Flu strains vary from year to year, so an updated vaccine formulation is required to provide optimal protection. Even if you received the flu vaccine last year, getting the latest version ensures the best protection heading into peak flu months.

Annual vaccination can help reduce your risk of illness, lessen the severity of symptoms if you do get sick and prevent the spread of the virus to those more vulnerable.

Scheduling your vaccine appointment

Flu shots are now available at CVS Pharmacy locations nationwide, including those inside Target and Schnucks®, and at MinuteClinic. Appointments can be scheduled online at CVS.com, MinuteClinic.com, or through the CVS Health app­ – and walk-ins are welcome. As an added perk, patients who receive any CDC-recommended vaccine at CVS Pharmacy until December 31, 2025, will get a $10 off $20 in-store coupon.

With many Americans already making plans to get vaccinated, it’s a good time to consider your own. Taking this simple step early can help protect you, your loved ones and your community throughout the flu season.

Learn More

For further information, visit www.CVS.com.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: In Cancer Care, a Second Set of Eyes Can Change Everything

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For many people with cancer, getting a second opinion is a first rate choice.

(NAPSI)—There are nearly 5,500 new cancer diagnoses every day in the U.S., and many of these are for patients under the age of 50. As cancer cases continue to rise and affect more Americans than ever before, many oncologists are choosing to expand their care teams with specialists around the country.

Helpful Survey

A recent survey of specialists across the United States found that while 95 percent of doctors support or recommend a second opinion, oncologists were the most likely to recommend patients use virtual second opinions (VSOs) to seek expert advice on their diagnosis and treatment. The survey, fielded by The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic, found that nearly half of oncologists “regularly” refer patients to a VSO, versus just 12 percent of doctors from other specialties.

“Cancer can present in a variety of ways, with dozens or hundreds of types and degrees that are unique to each patient,” said Dr. David Peter, Chief Medical Officer at The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic. “Most oncologists understand the value of having someone with years or decades of experience in a specific cancer type review a diagnosis and treatment plan. It’s a second set of eyes that can save lives and add valuable insights to unique cases.”

Findings show this expertise pays off. In 70 percent of cases, the expert VSO recommended a change to the initial diagnosis or treatment plan. Further, 57 percent of patients had an improved diagnosis and reduced morbidity after seeking a second opinion.

When asked why doctors recommended a VSO to patients, 74 percent reported that it was to overcome geographic limitations, and 61 percent said it was to gain insights on rare medical conditions.

Why A Second Opinion

“Many people in the U.S. live in specialty care deserts, and the best person for your specific case might be all the way across the country,” Dr. Peter added. “Patients and providers are turning to virtual tools to make better care more accessible to everyone.”

“Once in a lifetime diagnoses should not be handled alone,” one doctor wrote in the survey. “Through virtual second opinions, patients have the opportunity to collaborate with physicians who handle rare diseases and chronic conditions on a daily basis, accessing a vast referral network of experts.”

Learn More

To learn more, visit The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic at clinicbyclevelandclinic.com.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: EPA Says Good Indoor Air Quality Starts At The Source

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For good indoor air, the EPA says, you need to keep your HVAC system clean and clear.

(NAPSI)—Here’s an idea that can feel like a breath of fresh air: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has discovered a key strategy for improving indoor air quality (IAQ). In a newly released fact sheet, the EPA outlines three core best practices: source control, improved ventilation, and effective filtration and air cleaning.

Science Leading the Way

As IAQ takes center stage in conversations about public health and building safety, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) helps move the industry forward with science-based standards and field-tested methods. Its members don’t just follow best practices­—they help define them.

Here’s how the association supports each of the EPA’s key strategies:

Source Control­ – NADCA has long led the charge in advocating for source removal cleaning, the most effective method for eliminating contaminants inside HVAC systems. This approach is central to NADCA Standards, which provide detailed protocols for identifying and removing dust, debris, and microbial growth.

Improved Ventilation – Clean duct-work lets HVAC systems operate more efficiently, so fresh air can circulate freely throughout your house or office building. NADCA-certified professionals are trained to evaluate system airflow, identify restrictions, and offer solutions that improve ventilation and air exchange, key components of a healthier indoor space.

Filtration and Air Cleaning­ – When HVAC systems are dirty, even the best filters can’t perform effectively. Cleaning the system helps restore filtration efficiency, reduces the chance of particle bypass, and supports overall performance.
NADCA’s training addresses this dynamic directly, equipping professionals with the knowledge to make filtration more effective through system hygiene.

Standards Built on Science and Experience

NADCA’s credibility is rooted in science, continuous education, and real-world application. NADCA Standards are maintained by a committee of subject matter experts and grounded in research, collaboration with affiliated standard-writing organizations, and decades of field experience. NADCA also invests in studies that examine the effect of clean HVAC systems on airflow, energy efficiency, and occupant health.

A Shared Mission for Cleaner Air

As industry professionals, NADCA members share the EPA’s goal: to create healthier indoor environments where people live, work, and learn.

Learn More

For more facts about keeping your indoor air clean, visit NADCA at www.breathingclean.com.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Hints To Help You Take Control Of Your Well-Being

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Health care can be confusing, especially for older adults managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease­ – but you can make it easier on yourself.

(NAPSI)—Many older adults find health care hard to access and difficult to understand. In fact, a Harris Poll survey on older Americans’ experiences with the health care system found that 56 percent of respondents find it difficult and stressful to navigate. The good news is you don’t have to be among them.

It’s natural for health needs to change as you age, especially if you are managing complex chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cognitive health. Nearly 93 percent of older adults have at least one chronic condition and almost 80 percent have two or more, which can be difficult to manage.

According to the survey, almost 52 percent of Medicare beneficiaries see more than three different physicians a year, and half of them recognize the need for help coordinating care with multiple physicians.

What Is Needed

The good news is that managing your health care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are a few steps you can take to simplify your health care journey and to have more control of your well-being. For example, I often recommend a few tips to the older adults I see as a physician and Signify Health’s chief medical officer:

• Establish a Trusted Primary Care Provider (PCP) Relationship: This isn’t just about having a doctor when you’re sick; it’s about building a trusted relationship with a provider you can openly talk with about physical and mental health concerns or changes. Seeing a primary care provider on a regular basis, even if you feel well, can make identifying and managing new or existing conditions easier.

To make the most of your appointments and to help ensure you leave with an understanding of your key actions, try using these three questions with your PCP:

1. What is my main problem?
2. What do I need to do?
3. Why is it important for me to do this?

These questions from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement can be a helpful starting point for a conversation about your medical history, lifestyle and individual needs as well as next steps.

Having a good relationship with your PCP is invaluable for your care – they can help coordinate your care, refer you to specialists when necessary, and provide preventative guidance.

• Know Your Numbers: Many chronic conditions don’t show symptoms right away, so if you wait until something feels wrong, it might already be serious. Routine testing can help catch issues early and make a big difference in how well you can manage them.

One of the best ways to take control of your health is to “know your numbers.” That means staying up to date with screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and cognitive health.

• Develop a Personal Health Management Plan: Every older adult should have a clear health management plan. Not just “see the doctor once a year,” but a real plan – developed with your PCP – that includes medication schedules, nutrition, diet and exercise goals and what to do if symptoms change.

Having that roadmap enables a more proactive care approach and gives you and your family a clear path to follow.

Where To Get Help

Signify Health can help make these steps easier through In-Home Health Evaluations (IHEs). IHEs are available to eligible health plan members at no additional cost to them.

Experienced Signify Health clinicians­ – nurse practitioners, physicians and physician assistants­ – can visit you, in your home, at a time that is convenient for you.

These visits start with a simple conversation about your health. You can be screened for chronic diseases, learn important information about managing your health and discuss health concerns you may have. After the visit, the clinician will share information with you and your PCP (along with your health plan), empowering you to make more informed health decisions.

Additional resources and support may also be provided if needed to help you on your health journey.

What You Can Do

Taking control of your health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can go to HelloSignify.com to see if you’re eligible for a no-cost, in-home visit and book an appointment. It’s one of the simplest things you can do to manage your health.

Sponsored by Signify Health, part of CVS Health.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Children with Migraine May Be Left Without the Treatment They Need

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(NAPSI)—Migraine is a debilitating neurological disease that affects one billion people worldwide, but it is not just an adult disease. For the 1 in 10 children diagnosed with this complex and incurable condition, it can be a daily battle that affects academic performance, impacts friendships, and leads to diminished quality of life. And many struggle for years before receiving a proper diagnosis.

The Problem

Despite the lifelong consequence of untreated migraine, the landscape of evidence-based pediatric migraine care remains shockingly limited. Many prescription medications have not been evaluated in children or adolescents and were not originally developed for migraine treatment. In fact, only one migraine medication is FDA-approved for acute treatment in children as young as 8 years old, and no medications have been approved for preventive use in this age group. Additionally, they are often poorly tolerated, disruptive to normal activities, and require an adult to manage and properly administer medication to minimize adverse events.

An Answer

Fortunately, there is a non-drug alternative. Unfortunately, certain insurance companies are refusing to cover it. The Nerivio Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) wearable is redefining what is possible for migraine care. It is the only FDA-cleared, non-drug treatment available for people with migraine ages eight and above, offering both migraine relief and prevention. Despite its proven efficacy, many families face an insurmountable barrier: high cost due to lack of insurance coverage.

“Any treatment with evidence of efficacy is something I discuss with my patients,” says Dr. Ryan P. Williams MD, EDM, a pediatric neurologist and headache specialist with Children’s Specialty Group and Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters—a network of comprehensive pediatric services. “I have noticed more families are seeking effective, non-medication options, and the Nerivio REN wearable fits that need perfectly. However, the cost of the treatment without insurance coverage prevents many patients from accessing it. Of those I prescribe it to, only about half can afford to move forward.”

One Child’s Story

For Kieran Johnston, a 15-year-old migraine patient, non-drug treatment has been transformative. Migraine was an exhausting battle when relying on medications that left him nauseated and sometimes sleepy. The Nerivio REN wearable offered a way to manage his migraine disease without the systemic side effects of drugs. Using the treatment every other day for prevention and for relief when a migraine starts, Johnston has reduced his school absences from 6 or 7 days a month to just 1 or 2. He’s back to playing soccer and football with friends—activities he often missed when using migraine medication.

Still, Johnston’s family is paying out of pocket for this non-drug, non-disruptive treatment.

“We thought about stopping because it’s expensive,” says Johnston. “But it works so well that we decided to keep using it. I just wish it was covered by insurance for our family and so more kids like me could try it.”

Dr. Williams emphasizes that early and effective treatment can make a significant difference for pediatric patients, reducing the risk of developing chronic migraine later in life. “Insurance companies should cover all safe and effective treatment options, and the Nerivio REN wearable deserves to be one of those options, so we can not only treat early, but safely, effectively, and, if desired, without drugs.”

Families and healthcare providers alike are urging insurance companies to take notice and prioritize evidence-based, non-drug treatments for migraine. With growing evidence and real-world success stories, many believe it’s time for insurers to provide equitable access for drug-free options, including the Nerivio REN wearable.

Learn More

Patients, caregivers, and advocates can visit NerivioCovered.com for resources to help fight for better coverage and close the gap in pediatric migraine care.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Back-to-School, Back to You: Why August is the New Self-Care Season for Moms

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Modern “mommy makeovers” are about confidence, not perfection, and they are trending this fall

As the school bells begin to ring and kids head back, millions of moms are excited to get a chance to get back to self-care. They spend the summer caring for the kids and everything else on their plate, leaving them feeling they have very little time for self-care. August is becoming the new self-care season for moms, as the kids head off to school, giving them plenty of time to prioritize themselves.
“Once the kids head back to school, it is the perfect time for moms to turn their priority to self care,” explains Dr. Brandon Richland, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, Calif. “This is the time to focus on you, which will help you be better ready to help care for others, too.”

There’s an old saying that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Moms are often faced with having to try to do that, because they are spread so thin with all the things on their to-do list. For many, self-care takes a back seat to everything else they need to do, but this can have devastating consequences. Moms who don’t prioritize self-care are more prone to physical and mental health issues, including having lower self-esteem, more depression, and feeling less interested in exploring opportunities.

Gone are the days when moms were seeking perfection. Today, the new trend lies in moms wanting to look and feel their best simply. When they do, they are better able to care for others, happier, healthier, and ready to take on the challenges that life brings them. This is one of the reasons so many moms are prioritizing self-care once the kids are back to school. This is also when Dr. Richland gets a wave of women coming in for treatments that will help give them the boost in confidence that makes them feel great, whether posting family fun photos on social media, attending school functions, or meeting up with other moms for a lunch break.

As more moms find time this fall to refocus on their health, wellness, and confidence, they are exploring self-care options, ranging from skin rejuvenation to surgical restoration. Here are the top post-summer procedures that moms are having, according to Dr. Richland:

1. Skin Rehydration, Repair and Renew

Exposure to UV rays, chlorine, and heat can leave skin dry, dull, and damaged. Treatments like Hydrafacial, which deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses skin with hydration, are in high demand at this time of year. For deeper skin remodeling and fine line reduction, Morpheus8 radiofrequency micro-needling is also becoming a go-to for collagen stimulation and long-term rejuvenation.

2. Surgical Restorations: The Rise of the “Modern Mommy Makeover”

More moms are choosing to address post-pregnancy body changes through personalized combinations of breast augmentation or lift, tummy tuck, and body contouring. These procedures are popular because they help women feel confident and comfortable again in their bodies. For those considering surgery, advances in non-invasive technology are enhancing recovery outcomes. Tools like Morpheus8 are now being integrated into post-op care to help minimize scarring and improve skin texture around incision sites.

3. Mental and Physical Reset

Moms are often seeking support for their energy, metabolism, and overall wellness. With August being National Wellness Month, it’s a great time to speak with Dr. Richland about natural-looking surgical procedures, at-home medically supervised weight management, and more. Dr. Richland provides the solutions and advice women are seeking, helping them optimize their self-care goals, including a mental and physical reset.

“It’s an honor to help so many moms and women in general to feel their best,” said Dr. Richland. “Nobody judges women more harshly than they judge themselves. If I can help them love the skin they are in, then I’ve succeeded, which is a win-win for everyone. When moms make their health a priority they feel better about everything they do.”

Self-compassion is related to indicators of health and well-being, including positive affect, happiness, and optimism, according to research published in the Journal of Health Psychology. Despite this, they report that some women are hesitant to extend themselves compassion because they fear it will make them self-indulgent. This fear of self-compassion is associated with self-criticism, depression, and anxiety. They report that engaging in health behaviors positively impacts a mother’s health. They also point out that despite the demands of motherhood, women can become more self-compassionate by prioritizing health behaviors, and that many women who engage in health behaviors feel it makes them a better parent.

Dr. Brandon Richland is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his commitment to natural-looking results and exceptional patient care, with practices in Fountain Valley, Woodland Hills, and Las Vegas, he offers a full spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments tailored to each patient’s goals. Dr. Richland specializes in transformative mommy makeovers, including breast augmentation, lifts, reductions, tummy tucks, skin tightening, and body contouring, as well as advanced facial procedures such as facelifts, chin liposuction, and fat transfers. He also offers luxury treatments like red carpet ready Forma facials and other non-invasive solutions to help patients look and feel their best. To explore services, view before-and-after photos, and access current promotions, visit https://www.richlandmd.com

Source:

Journal of Health Psychology. Put MY mask on first: Mothers’ reactions to prioritizing health behaviors as a function of self-compassion and fear of self-compassion. February 2021. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8978476/.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Living Longer? Great! Now Stay Healthier, Too

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An additional dose of the 2024/2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after the first dose adds a key layer of protection against severe illness for older Americans and people with weakened immune systems.

(NAPSI)—Americans are living nearly a decade longer than they were in the 1970s. That’s great news – but staying healthy into your 80s and beyond requires extra care and an eye towards prevention. The protection provided by vaccines plays a key role in helping keep you healthy and preventing severe illness and potential long-term complications, especially for older adults and individuals with immunocompromised conditions.

As people age, their immune system naturally weakens – it becomes slower at recognizing and fighting off viruses. At the same time, lungs become more vulnerable, and chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes can make it harder to recover from illnesses such as COVID-19. Similarly, people of all ages with weakened immune systems – whether from certain health conditions or medications – face a higher risk of severe illness because their bodies also struggle to mount a strong defense. In both cases, a reduced ability to fight infectious respiratory disease increases the risk of serious complications and hospitalization.

Vaccines Help Keep You Healthy

That’s why staying up to date on vaccines – especially for COVID-19 and other infectious respiratory illnesses like flu, measles, pertussis, pneumococcal disease, and RSV – is essential as we head into spring and summer. Vaccination helps boost our body’s immune response and provides an added layer of protection when traveling and gathering with friends and family. In fact, according to data from the 2024/2025 season, COVID-19 vaccination was associated with:

• A 45 percent lower risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 for older adults;
• A 40 percent lower risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 for older adults with weakened immune systems;
• A 33 percent lower risk of emergency department or urgent care visits from COVID-19 among adults 18 and older

Why It Matters Now

COVID-19 isn’t just a seasonal concern, it can surge at any time of the year, including during the spring and summer. Early in the pandemic, spikes were often associated with colder months, but we now know that outbreaks can occur during any season because the virus keeps changing so it can spread more easily from person to person. This makes staying up to date on vaccination even more important.
Spring into Summer with an Extra Layer of Protection

Immunity from previous doses can wane over time, leaving individuals – especially those 65 and older or with a weakened immune system – more vulnerable to severe illness. If you fall into one of these groups, it’s recommended that you receive another dose of the 2024/2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after your first dose to help maintain protection.

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn whether you should get another dose of the latest COVID-19 vaccine so you can enjoy time with family, travel, and everything else this season brings.
Learn more at: CVEEP.org/stayprotected.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Pharmacists share must-have medications for every household

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With the right healthcare supplies and expert support from your pharmacist, you can be prepared for whatever comes your way.

(NAPSI)—A well-stocked supply of medicine must-haves can sometimes mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a potential emergency room visit. From summer sunburns to allergy flare-ups, headaches or tummy troubles, keeping stock of appropriate over-the-counter products—and knowing how and when to use them—can help to support health at home.

To help, CVS pharmacists across the country shared their top recommendations for what every household should consider having on hand, including some surprising items consumers might not think of. Whether you’re restocking your first-aid kit, preparing for seasonal allergies or updating your emergency supplies, CVS Pharmacy can make it easy to build a collection of essentials that support everyday and unexpected health needs.

Start With the Basics

While every family is different, pharmacists recommend the following basic categories:

• Pain and fever relief support: Oral options include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen and aspirin; topical pain relievers include diclofenac and lidocaine.
• Allergy relief support: Non-drowsy antihistamines, decongestants and nasal corticosteroids.
• Cold and flu support: Cough suppressants, expectorants, lozenges and a thermometer.
• Digestive aids: Antacids, anti-diarrheals and stool softeners.
• Skin and sun care: Water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen (at least 30 SPF recommended), aloe vera, calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream.
• First aid kit supplies: Bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic spray, gauze, adhesive tape, scissors, cold packs and tweezers.

Smart Additions You Might Not Expect

Once you’ve covered the essentials, pharmacists also recommend including a couple of often-overlooked items:

• Diphenhydramine: Available in both liquid and tablet forms for adults and children ages 6 and older. May help in allergy emergencies and is useful for short-term symptom relief while awaiting further medical care.
• Electrolyte packets: Handy for rehydration after illness or overheating. While not a substitute for medical attention in serious cases of dehydration, they may be helpful for early replenishment.

Tailor Your Medicine Must-Haves to Your Family

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when stocking up on medicine must-haves, and your selections should reflect you and your home. While the term “medicine cabinet” is commonly used, the bathroom is not the best storage place due to humidity.

Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place, unless otherwise specified. Keep them out of reach and sight of children and pets. Even simple items such as vitamins or pain relievers can be dangerous if they are accidentally ingested. Childproof containers and lockable cabinets can help prevent accidents and keep your home safe.

Homes with children should include children’s formulations of fever reducers and pain relievers. Always keep products labeled and dosage instructions handy. A pharmacist can help parents pick the right strength based on age and weight.

Older adults or those managing chronic illnesses may need products compatible with their prescription medications. A discussion with your pharmacist can help ensure you’re avoiding negative interactions and selecting the most effective options.

Prepare for Emergencies Beyond Just Supplies

Being prepared for an emergency means staying organized. Pharmacists recommend keeping a written record—either taped inside your medicine cabinet or stored nearby—with emergency contact numbers, a list of current medications with dosages, an allergy list, your primary health care provider’s information and a copy of your health insurance details.

CVS Pharmacy has a robust selection of health and wellness products and first-aid kits, plus travel-sized items for on-the-go support, and CVS pharmacists are available to help you choose the right products, especially if you’re managing multiple medications or looking for family-friendly options.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Breathe Easy: Now Is a Great Time to Clean Your HVAC System

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When the temperature climbs, it’s a hot idea to get your HVAC system professionally cleaned.

(NAPSI)—As the weather warms, many homes begin to shift into cooling mode. Air conditioners are turned on, windows are closed to keep the heat out, and people start spending more time indoors to escape rising temperatures. So this can be an excellent time to think about not only comfort, but air quality inside your home. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, ways to prepare for the warmer months is by cleaning your HVAC system’s air ducts.

Why the Ducts

Over the course of the winter, your HVAC system likely worked hard to keep your home warm and comfortable. During this time, dust, dirt, pet dander, mold spores, and other debris can build up in the ductwork. When you make the seasonal switch to cooling, all of that built-up gunk can start circulating through your home, affecting the air you and your family breathe every day. For individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory concerns, this can lead to discomfort or even health complications.

That means now’s the time to schedule a professional HVAC system cleaning. A clean HVAC system improves indoor air quality, supports healthier living conditions, and helps your equipment run more efficiently. When air ducts are clogged with contaminants, your system has to work harder to push air through, which increases energy consumption and can shorten the life­span of your equipment. Cleaning your ducts can help reduce energy bills, improve airflow, and eliminate unpleasant odors caused by dander and mold inside the system.

Beyond personal comfort, there’s a bigger picture to consider. A clean HVAC system contributes to a healthier environment as well as a healthier home. By improving your system’s efficiency, you’re reducing the energy needed to keep your home cool, which supports energy conservation and sustainability.

What to Watch For

There are a few signs that it may be time to schedule a professional HVAC cleaning:

1. You notice more dust than usual around your home, even after cleaning.
2. You or your family experience increased allergy or respiratory symptoms.
3. There’s a musty or stale smell when the system runs.
4. You’ve recently completed a home renovation or construction project.
5. It’s been several years since your last duct cleaning.

Whom to Look For

To ensure your system is cleaned properly and thoroughly, always hire a certified professional. It helps to know that NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) sets the industry standard for HVAC cleaning, and certified professionals follow a strict code of ethics and best practices to ensure the job is done right.

Learn More

Visit BreathingClean.com to learn more about the importance of HVAC system cleaning and find a NADCA-certified professional in your area, so this season, you take the steps to breathe cleaner, fresher air all summer long.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: 8 tips for healthy eating

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These 8 practical tips cover the basics of healthy eating and can help you make healthier choices.

The key to a healthy diet is to eat the right amount of calories for how active you are so you balance the energy you consume with the energy you use.

If you eat or drink more than your body needs, you’ll put on weight because the energy you do not use is stored as fat. If you eat and drink too little, you’ll lose weight.

It’s recommended that men have around 2,500 calories a day (10,500 kilojoules). Women should have around 2,000 calories a day (8,400 kilojoules).

1. Base your meals on higher fiber starchy carbohydrates

Choose higher fiber or wholegrain varieties, such as whole wheat pasta, brown rice or potatoes with their skins on.

Try to include at least one starchy food with each main meal. Some people think starchy foods are fattening, but gram for gram the carbohydrate they contain provides fewer than half the calories of fat.

2. Eat lots of fruit and veggies

It’s recommended you eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day. They can be fresh, frozen, canned, dried or juiced.

3. Eat more fish, including a portion of oily fish

Fish is a good source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals. Aim to eat at least two portions of fish a week, including at least one portion of oily fish.

Oily fish include: salmon, trout, herring, sardines, pilchards, mackerel. Non-oily fish include haddack, cod, and tuna. You can choose from fresh, frozen and canned, but remember that canned and smoked fish can be high in salt.

4. Cut down on saturated fat and sugar

You need some fat in your diet, but it’s important to pay attention to the amount and type of fat you’re eating.

There are 2 main types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. Too much saturated fat can increase the amount of cholesterol in the blood, which increases your risk of developing heart disease.

5. Eat less salt: no more than 6g a day for adults

Eating too much salt can raise your blood pressure. People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke. Even if you do not add salt to your food, you may still be eating too much. About three-quarters of the salt you eat is already in the food when you buy it, such as breakfast cereals, soups, breads and sauces.

6. Get active and be a healthy weight

As well as eating healthy, regular exercise may help reduce your risk of getting serious health conditions. It’s also important for your overall health and wellbeing.

7. Do not get thirsty

You need to drink plenty of fluids to stop you from getting dehydrated. The government recommends drinking six to eight glasses every day. This is in addition to the fluid you get from the food you eat.

All non-alcoholic drinks count, but water, lower fat milk and lower sugar drinks, including tea and coffee, are healthier choices.

Try to avoid sugary soft and fizzy drinks, as they’re high in calories. They’re also bad for your teeth. Even unsweetened fruit juice and smoothies are high in free sugar.

8. Do not skip breakfast

Some people skip breakfast because they think it’ll help them lose weight. But a healthy breakfast high in fiber and low in fat, sugar and salt can form part of a balanced diet, and can help you get the nutrients you need for good health.

A wholegrain lower sugar cereal with semi-skimmed milk and fruit sliced over the top is a tasty and healthier breakfast.