Although it’s obvious that a diet of hot dogs and ice cream won’t lead to a healthy physical life, new research illuminates how ultra-processed foods can also cause a significant decrease in brain function.

Research presented Monday at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in San Diego outlined how foods such as instant noodles, sugary drinks and frozen meals all play a factor in a faster rate of cognitive decline.

“It’s no secret that physical and mental-cognitive health are intimately involved with each other, so it’s no surprise that this latest research suggests brain impairment, too,” said Rafael Perez-Escamilla, a professor of public health at Yale University.

“Just 100 calories of processed foods can affect your physical health. So, that’s two cookies.”

Research has linked ultra-processed food consumption to health problems like obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancers. “And now, we are starting to realize they affect the mind,” Perez-Escamilla said.

What is your definition of a healthy lifestyle? Eating your fruits and vegetables? Taking part in exercise? Eating lower-fat foods?

All those answers are correct, but they are just a piece of the puzzle to achieving the right balance for health. A healthy lifestyle is not a “one-size fits all” plan for every person. Guidelines should be followed and tailored to individual needs to prevent and manage chronic diseases and illnesses. The recipe for achieving optimal health, no matter your age, includes balancing what you eat, your physical activity, and your sleep patterns.

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According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended to follow a healthy eating pattern regardless of age. It’s essential to make choices based on your preferences, budget, and cultural traditions.

The focus should remain

LANSING, MI – Today, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Gary McDowell, joined by representatives from the Michigan Association for Local Public Health, the Ingham County Health Department, and the Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions, toured the 168th Ingham County Fair, including the large animal livestock auction, and met with local food truck owners selling delicious food items during the fair. Throughout 2022, McDowell is traveling across the state, meeting with food and agricultural businesses as they advance during Michigan’s economic recovery and revitalization.

“From our Food and Dairy Division working with our partners at local health departments to help ensure safe food, to our veterinarians who help protect the health and safety of the animals at the fairs, MDARD works hard behind the scenes to ensure Michiganders have a great time at our summer fairs, said McDowell. “The Ingham County Fair, like other

A Tarrant County gas station had to close its beverage area for deep cleaning, and two other food establishments were significantly cited for violations in recent health inspections.

From July 24-30, 77 restaurants underwent health inspections throughout Tarrant County, excluding those in Fort Worth, Arlington, Euless and North Richland Hills, which conduct their own. No restaurant was closed for health violations, but one did score over 29 demerits, which will require a follow-up at a later date.

Incredible Burger, located at 1101 Melbourne Road in Hurst, scored a 33 and was cited for a broken freezer, food cross-contamination and lack of hairnets worn by employees. Inspectors also said the grill’s vent hood has not been cleaned since January 2021.

Incredible Burger will be required to undergo a follow-up inspection.

Also scoring poorly was El Patriota, located at 312 E Pipeline Road in Hurst, with a 29. El Patriota

Wellness does not just mean gym time. One very common issue people deal with is fiscal fitness.

I know many people who are struggling with money. Many folks are trying to afford healthy food or are trying to feed their kids on a limited budget. So, in times of financial stress, how do you eat well?

Some tips I have for eating well on a budget:

Vegetables

• Eat plant-strong meals – Serve spinach, broccoli, brussel sprouts or another leafy green with most meals.

• Grow your own – For the green-thumb-blessed, this is a great option. For those like me, if you factor in the cost of seeds, the time weeding the garden and the fact that I eventually kill most plants, this isn’t the best plan.

• Food co-ops – We are very lucky to have Bountiful Baskets available to us locally. I get a great basket of