Health & Wellness

Your Gut, Your Guide: How Digestive Health Shapes Immunity, Mood, and More

Your gut is more than just a place where food is digested—it’s a critical command center for your immune system, mood regulation, and even chronic disease prevention. The gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses living in your digestive tract—is one of the most important ecosystems in the human body. Why Gut Health Matters …

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Flu Season Ahead: How to Strengthen Your Defenses Now

As summer fades and school and work routines return, it’s the perfect time to prep for cold and flu season. While flu activity typically peaks between December and February, building healthy habits now can boost your immunity before viruses spread. Why Start Now? Colder months mean more time indoors and greater exposure to germs. Less …

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Your Mid-Year Health Reset: 7 Checkups You Shouldn’t Skip

Mid-year is the perfect time to take stock of your health and schedule essential checkups that can help prevent long-term issues. Whether you’ve been putting off appointments or are simply unsure of what’s necessary, these seven screenings help maintain wellness across all stages of life. Primary Care Checkup An annual visit to your primary care …

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Spotlight Interview: A Conversation with Rural South Dakota School Nurse

Q: What are the most common health concerns during the school year?“We see a lot of seasonal illnesses—flu, strep, even COVID still. But what many don’t realize is how many students we support with chronic medical needs. I care for kids with diabetes, seizure disorders, and more. Some require catheterization, g-tube feedings, or medications during …

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Partnering with the School Nurse: A Key Ally in Your Child’s Health

Between busy schedules, after-school activities, and growing academic demands, keeping kids healthy during the school year can be a challenge. But parents aren’t in it alone—school nurses play a vital role in supporting students’ physical, emotional, and developmental health. With a little communication and collaboration, parents and school nurses can become a strong team for …

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Mario Lopez: “Hustle, Health, and Holding Down the Fort”

It’s just past 6:00 a.m. and Mario Lopez is already in motion. The TV host, actor, radio personality, and father of three has built a life defined by hustle—and it all starts before most alarms go off.  “I get up about six,” he says. “Just kind of get ready to go to the gym, see …

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A Message From the CEO

A Healthy Start to the School Year As families gear up for the school year, it’s the perfect time to prioritize your child’s health. While new supplies and routines are top of mind, so is preparing for cold and flu season. This time of year brings increased exposure to germs in classrooms, sports practices, and …

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Rural Ready: How Small-Town Hospitals Prepare for Summer Emergencies

As summer arrives, rural hospitals face unique challenges in managing seasonal emergencies. From heat-related illnesses to injuries from outdoor activities, small-town hospitals must be prepared to respond effectively despite limited resources. Through strategic planning, community partnerships, and focused training, rural healthcare facilities are ready to tackle the season’s demands while ensuring high-quality care for their …

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Stretching for Summer Sports: As Your Activity Increases, So Should Your Preparation

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, many people take advantage of the warmer weather to engage in outdoor sports and activities. Whether you’re hitting the trails, playing a friendly game of soccer, or diving into summer workouts, one key element of preparation should never be overlooked—stretching.  Why Stretching Matters  Stretching helps improve …

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Sun and Safety: Your Guide to Skin Protection This Summer

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor fun, but increased UV exposure makes skin protection essential. Skin cancer rates are rising, so safeguarding your skin is more important than ever.  Understanding UV Radiation UV rays cause premature aging, sunburns, and skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeply, leading to wrinkles, while UVB rays cause sunburn and increase …

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