Jake Newby
Winter Surfing in Michigan: Where are the Best Spots?
If you are interested in tackling a new winter sport this year, this cold-weather surfing guide is for you.
Does Celtic Salt Have Benefits?
Celtic salt was a recent TikTok health "hack." It does contain minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron, but does it contain enough of those minerals to make a difference?
Could Eating Spicy Food Help You Eat Less?
A recent study examining spice levels in food in a short-term situation discovered eating spicy food may eat slower, chew more and chew more, give the body time to register fullness and prevent overeating.
Veteran’s Day: Michigan Events, Ceremonies and Celebrations in 2025
More than 486,000 veterans of the United States Armed Forces call Michigan their home. Events and parades are happening all over Michigan in 2025, including places like Detroit, Grand Rapids, Augusta, Brighton, Oceana and more.
15 of the Best Haunted Houses in Michigan
Michigan is home to some of the most creative, elaborate and downright horrifying haunted houses in the country. Here are 15 of the best!
Fibermaxxing: From Trend to Table
Fibermaxxing is a trend rooted in eating more fiber than you may be used to. It's a trend most dietitians can get behind, as more than 90% of American adults fail to reach the minimum fiber threshold.
Easy High Protein Meals
Looking to up your protein intake? Here are four easy-to-make meals that contain at least 30 grams of protein apiece. Which recipe are you most likely to try?
10 Spice Substitutes to Use in a Pinch
Some spice combinations can come close to replicating the flavor of the spice you are missing. Here is how to replace 10 popular spices.
Is It Possible to Improve My Attention Span?
Digital distractions may not be the sole reason for your diminished attention span, but they surely contribute. Here's what you can do to increase your concentration.
Does Apple Cider Have Health Benefits?
Apple cider is a beloved fall beverage, but is it healthy? Learn more about its pasteurization process and nutrition value, here.
Does Plant Protein Lower Heart Disease Risk?
A new study found eating a higher ratio of plant to animal protein was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. Interested in incorporating more plant-based protein into your diet? Here's what you need to do.
Don’t Throw Your Fruit Scraps Away! The Surprising Health Benefits of Watermelon Rinds, Orange Peels and More
Since we were kids we discarded the pits, peels and seeds from our fruit while eating the tasty flesh. But did you know the parts of the fruit we usually scrap can have health benefits, too?
2025 Woodward Dream Cruise Preview & Survival Guide
The Dream Cruise can be a grind if you’re not prepared. Read these packing tips, nearby restaurants, parking options and best viewing spots.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics are Everywhere. Here’s How You Can Limit Your Exposure.
Performing routine actions with food packaging like unwrapping cheese and cold cuts or steeping tea bags in water could shed microplastics and nanoplastics into your food and drinks, according to a new study.
When is it Too Hot for Kids to Play Outside?
The heat has been intense in Michigan over the last week or so. Before letting your kids play outside, it's important to take these tips and advice into consideration.
Beans, Beans, the Musical Fruit: The Many Health Benefits of Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are packed full of antioxidants, protein, complex carbohydrates and soluble fiber. It's no wonder that popular kids jingle suggested to eat them with every meal.
Fourth of July Fireworks in Michigan: 10 Displays to Check Out in 2025
Are you looking for the best fireworks in Michigan in 2025? There are destination fireworks displays and festivals all over the state.
9 Iconic Michigan Ice Cream Parlors to Visit
From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?
Signs of Low Self-Esteem in Teens and How to Build it Back Up
It's not always easy for parents to get their teenagers to open up to them about how they are feeling. But if you feel like your child's self-esteem is low, here are some tips and conversation starters.
Pros and Cons of Vegan Cheese
Thinking of switching to vegan cheese? The plant-based product has its fair share of health advantages compared to dairy cheese. But it has its drawbacks, too.
Is it Safe to Take Ibuprofen Before Working Out?
If you’re feeling sore or battling an illness but still want to power through a workout, you may consider a dose of NSAIDs before exercising. Here's why that might not be a wise idea.
What to Know About Prenatal Depression
It can be difficult to identify prenatal depression because some women may chalk up signs of depression to the normal ups and downs of pregnancy. Here's what you need to know abut the condition.
5 Tips to Avoid Alcohol in Social Settings
Sidestepping alcohol at social events when you're trying to avoid drinking can be difficult. Consider reading these tips on how to stay sober in social settings and apply the ones that might work for you.
The Importance of Masks and Eyewear Ahead of Spring Sports Season
Whether they’re playing recreationally with friends on the playground or in an organized league at school, the safety provided by masks and eyewear should be a top priority for kids this spring.
What is Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow has been all over social media this year, with many users raving about its effectiveness as a cooking oil and a skin moisturizer. Is this just another viral wellness myth or is there some truth to these claims?
Why Is the First Five Minutes of a Workout So Hard?
There’s a science behind what the first five minutes of exercise does to your body. Don’t let it deter you from a great workout.

How Much Do You Need to Exercise to Offset Sitting?
Are you seated a lot for work, or do you watch a lot of TV and play video games in your free time? Exercise can help reverse the harmful effects of prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle.
What’s the Difference Between Vegans and Vegetarians?
There are differences and nuances to both diets. Here are the main points in separating veganism from vegetarianism, including nutritional obstacles people who adopt these diets may encounter.

Are There Healthy and Unhealthy Salts?
The term “healthy salt” is a bit of an oxymoron. Here's everything you need to know about the nutritional differences between sea salt and table salt.
Should I Cold Plunge Before or After a Workout?
Cold plunges can be a complementary recovery method to vigorous exercise. But exactly when should you take the plunge? Here's what the research suggests.
Rage Rooms: Do They Help or Hurt Your Stress?
Smashing old dishware with a baseball bat can be cathartic in the moment, but rage rooms may not be a long-term solution for stress relief.
Are Flu Outbreaks Connected to Weather Patterns?
It’s a misnomer that cold temperatures cause the flu, but temperatures and humidity can exacerbate the severity of it and cause it to spread.
Recreation Therapy Helps People with Disabilities Enjoy Adaptive Versions of Their Favorite Activities
Recreation therapy is a powerful, evidence-based way to empower individuals to live healthy, happy lives. Here are the adaptive recreational activities Disability Network Eastern Michigan organizes through its RecConnect program.
Why Binge Drinking Even Once a Week is Bad
If you make a habit out of binge drinking, you could expose yourself to these specific short and long-term health problems.
50 Black-Owned Restaurants to Try in the Detroit Area
These 50 local Black-owned restaurants — including a few new ones that opened in 2024 — should be on your radar this year. How many have you eaten at?
Find Your Fit: Thinking About Trying Pilates? Here are 8 Tips for Beginners
Pilates is a low-impact, core-strengthening workout suitable for everyone. Thinking of signing up? First check out these tips provided by Michigan fitness instructor Julia Collins, who has 21 years of experience in the field.
Processed Food vs. Ultra-processed Food
When it comes to food, “processed” and “ultra-processed” are not interchangeable terms. Products that are processed are also not inherently unhealthy. A better understanding of the difference between these terms may change your approach the next time you shop for groceries.
Find Your Fit: Give These Low Impact Exercises and Activities a Try this Winter
Don't let the icy temperatures deter you from staying fit this winter. Let this list of outdoor and indoor exercises spark some motivation.
7 Healthy Restaurants to Try in Metro Detroit
A Healthier Michigan's 2024 Foodie Focus series in 2024 highlighted seven Detroit area restaurants that prioritized clean eating. Here's where they are and what they are about.
5 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah in Detroit
Celebrate the Jewish “festival of lights” by attending one or more of these five Hanukkah celebrations happening in or around Detroit.
10 Family-Friendly Winter Break Activities in Metro Detroit
Looking for things to do during the kids' winter break? These indoor and outdoor ideas should ignite the holiday spirit in the whole family.
What to Know About Wearable Weights
Wearable weights have been around for years, but they're enjoying a renaissance on social media. Here's what to know about ankle and wrist weights, as well as weighted vests, before you try them.
8 Ways to Stop Holiday Stress Before It Starts
The holidays are as stressful as they are joyous. When it comes to shopping, traveling, decorating and family time, here are ways to mitigate the stress.
Find Your Fit: Barre Fitness Keeps Your Joints ‘Nice and Happy’ With Low-Impact Strength Training
Barre is a blend between ballet-inspired movements, Pilates, yoga and weight work. It's a strength training exercise that promotes flexibility and functional strength. And as one Southeast Michigan trainer can attest, it also creates a sense of community.
Foodie Focus: Bell Peppers are the Hero at the Detroit Pepper Company
Every stuffed pepper option at the Detroit Pepper Company starts off meat-free. Guests have the option to add cheese or meat to any of the signature stuffed peppers or entrées found on the East Detroit fast casual restaurant's menu.
How Weather Affects Your Lungs and COPD
COPD exacerbations occur most often when people living with the condition experience extremely cold or extremely hot and humid temperatures.
What is Sharenting? The Risks and Dangers of Oversharing Online
We all love to document moments with our children that mean a lot to us, but oversharing pictures and information about our kids online carries serious risk. The term for this habit is "sharenting."
What are the Benefits of Breathwork?
The basic principle of breathwork practices is to view the breath as a calming tool that accesses deeper states of awareness, healing and relaxation. Here are some techniques and benefits.
How to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month in Michigan
November is Native American Heritage Month. These Michigan sites and landmarks celebrate the rich and important history of Native Americans. Check out this list of Native American-owned businesses to support as well.
Find Your Fit: Bounce Your Way to a Great Cardio Workout Using a Mini Trampoline
Bounce is a cardiovascular-based, mini trampoline workout offered at fitness studios across Michigan. You can also do it at home. Before trying it, read what Ypsilanti-based fitness instructor Sarah Kreiner has to say about Bounce as a workout, and what beginners should know before they try it.
Foodie Focus: First Bite Endears Itself to Ann Arbor with Vegan, Organic and Gluten-Free Breakfast and Lunch Options
Locals and out-of-towners alike form a line out the door at First Bite each weekend. The breakfast and lunch restaurant's fresh, organic offerings mesh well with anyone's diet, and is popular among vegans and vegetarians.
Detroit’s Pie-Sci Pizzeria Builds a Vegan Following with Plant-Based Pizza Options
Pie-Sci pizzeria on Trumbull in Detroit challenges the notion that vegan pizza fails to stack up to its meat and dairy-based counterparts.
The Benefits of ADHD Management Tools
Whether you respond better to digital resources like smartphone apps or materials like planners and sticky notes, ADHD management tools can help in a variety of ways.
Foodie Focus: Summertown Fresh Bar Fills a Fast and Healthy Restaurant Void in Corktown
Summertown Fresh Bar's additive-free smoothies and juices, and ever-expanding healthy breakfast and lunch programs, have endeared the restaurant to its Corktown neighbors since 2023.
Find Your Fit: Sneak a Full-Body Workout in at the Playground With These Tips
If you are one of those people that struggle to fit a workout into your busy schedule, you can be efficient and accomplish two things at once by working out on the playground while looking after your kids.
“I Had to Get Comfortable with the New Me.” Michigan Woman Reflects on Breast Cancer Battle
Rebecca Adams’ HER2-positive, stage 3A breast cancer diagnosis came as a shock. Extensive research and lifestyle changes helped her persevere.
Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails Settles in As One of Detroit’s Most Beloved Farm to Table Restaurants
Chartreuse was ahead of the "farm to table" curve when it opened in 2015. Clean, quality food, innovative dishes and an emphasis on hospitality have made it one of the most successful "new" restaurants to open in Detroit in the past decade.
Shed Calories and Build Friendships: POUND Fitness Combines Cardio, Pilates and Drumming
POUND is a cardio-based workout that incorporates Pilates, core strengthening and arm and leg movements. But you won't just burn calories; instructor and Grass Lake resident Crystal Scott can attest to POUND's mental benefits.
Do Prebiotic Sodas Benefit Gut Health?
Low-calorie prebiotic sodas have burst onto the scene in recent years. They claim to promote good gut health, but how credible are those claims?
Ken Hayward Reflects on Opportunities Baseball Granted Him After Induction Into State of Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame
Before he led BCBSM's social mission and community affairs efforts, Ken Hayward was an incredible college baseball player. He didn't realize it at the time, but his years as a ballplayer shaped his future in a major way.
Cooking with Que: Detroit Restaurant Owner’s Cooking Classes Show You How to ‘Eat to Live’
Converting to a vegan diet was a gamechanger for Quiana Rice's health. The lifestyle change set her on a career path and mission to help others choose cleaner ingredients and develop healthier cooking and eating habits.
‘It’s Not Something That Has to Stop Them:’ Grand Rapids Mother Discusses Daughter’s Tumultuous Journey with Juvenile Arthritis, Offers Advice to Others
Paisley Taylor of Grand Rapids was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis a few years ago. The diagnosis has sparked a passion for advocacy in Paisley's mother, Taylor, who knows the condition does not define her daughter.
Breadless in Detroit Turns the Afterthought into the Centerpiece with Healthy, Innovative Sandwich Concept
Breadless uses super-green vegetables like Swiss chard and kale to conceal savory, chef-inspired sandwich recipes. The fast casual restaurant has become a much-needed health food option in Detroit.
Find Your Fit: Badminton is a Full-Body Workout with Mental and Cognitive Benefits
Badminton has been around for centuries, but we don't often think of it as a recreational sport we can play locally. Ann Arbor's Kim Yeow shares tips and discusses the sport's benefits and communal qualities.
Music Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease
Music therapy experiences may include singing songs, playing instruments, writing music, or listening to music and analyzing the lyrics. Music therapy interventions can address a variety of health care and educational goals.
Detroit Juneteenth Celebrations in 2024
Metro Detroiters can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Detroit in a multitude of ways, from festivals to special dinners to educational events.
Can Gardening Improve Mental Health?
On top of growing your own food and plants, you could be relieving stress and improving your attention span every time you get in the garden.
5 Tips to Avoid Loneliness While Working from Home
Working from home has obvious benefits, but many of us who work remotely know it can also breed loneliness. These tips encourage movement and socialization. They may help you break up the monotony of the remote work day.
Find Your Fit: Qigong’s Low-Impact, Full-Body Movements and Mindfulness Techniques Can Benefit Older Adults
Qigong is part mindful activity, part exercise. Its low-impact, repetitive nature has made it an increasingly popular workout for older adults.
Aster Farm to Table Restaurant in Midland Focuses on Seasonality, Sustainability and Community
Beef from Stoney Grove Farm in Rodney. Whitefish caught in Lake Erie. Fresh tomatoes from Good Stead Farm in Hope. Michigan's incredible farming community is highlighted in every dish at Aster.
The Foodie Focus: Spotlighting Michigan Restaurants Focused on Clean Eating
The Food Focus series is coming to AHM this spring. Each month we'll chat with different restaurant owners in Michigan who prioritizes clean ingredients, sustainability or just general healthy eating. Let's dig in!
Find Your Fit: What is Tabata?
Tabata was originally created as a training method for the Japanese Olympic Speed Skating team in the early 1990s. But the HIIT-style workout is practiced in gyms all over the United States today. Here's what it's all about.
Opening Day in Detroit: Saginaw Super Fan Sammie Telder Never Misses a Game
Saginaw native Sammie Telder doesn’t miss many pitches, swings or catches during the 162-game regular season. She can't wait to see how her Tigers perform this year.

Find Your Fit: What You Need to Know About Rucking, from a Michigan Resident Who Fell in Love with it
Osceola County resident Donnie Dwyer gravitated toward rucking for its low-impact, resistance-based nature. More than just a sneaky good workout, rucking's communal element has been a boon to Dwyer's social life.
Mindful Parenting: Celebrating Inchstones
We're used to celebrating our children's big milestone moments. But it can be valuable for both the parent and the child to celebrate the smaller triumphs, too.
Find Your Fit: WERQ Dance Fitness is for Everybody and ‘Every Body’
Fitness instructor Monica Sanders is one of the pioneers of WERQ, a nationally-known style of cardio-based group exercise that originated in the Midwest.
Nordic Walking Provides a Full-Body Workout
Nordic walking incorporates hand-held poles that propel you forward. This surprisingly tough workout gets your back, chest, core, shoulders and arms engaged.
7 Detroit Black History Sites to Visit
These historic Detroit sites and landmarks document both the triumphs and hardships of Black Americans who have ties to the city.
Get to Know Michigan’s Woody the Woodchuck Ahead of Groundhog Day
Woody the Woodchuck isn't just a Michigan legend; she's known nationwide. With a personality as big as her appetite, it's easy to see why Woody is such a treasure.
Why Walking Your Dog is Healthy for You, Too
Did you know dog owners are 34% more likely to fit 150 minutes of walking into a week than non-dog owners? The benefits only begin there.
This German Football Fan was a Foreign Exchange Student in Michigan 26 Years Ago. He Returned to Watch Detroit Win a Playoff Game.
Detroit's feel-good playoff run has been a blast for the city to follow. The team even has support overseas, as evidenced by this former Michigan foreign exchange student from Germany's unlikely tale.
Find Your Fit: What is the 12-3-30 Workout?
Even the biggest cardio detractors might find some fun in the 12-3-30 routine. This 30-minute aerobic challenge took the workout world by storm in 2023.
What is the Goldilocks Rule for Social Media Use?
Many of us can afford to shave down the amount of time we spend on social media. It's also a useful professional tool, and can be a boon to our social lives in small doses. Balance is key.
New "Find Your Fit” Series Will Spotlight Fun, New Workouts Every Month
Discovering a new workout can spark motivation when the gym routine gets stale. In 2024, A Healthier Michigan's "Find Your Fit" workout series will feature fun, unique and trending exercises that you can try at your pace.
How to Treat Your Weekend Like a Vacation
When your weeks feel cyclical and repetitive, try treating a weekend like a vacation. Here's how to unplug, unwind, and get into that vacation mindset.
Benefits of Walking Backwards
It may sound a bit silly, but walking backwards is a great way to incorporate varied movement into your workout. When done safely, it's an exercise that works muscles you don't normally work.
Detroit-Area Entrepreneurs in the Non-Alcoholic Industry Offer Dry January Steps for Success
Trying Dry January? The month-long challenge can be mentally trying. Some of the people at the forefront of Detroit’s "sober curious" movement have some advice.
Winter Festivals in Michigan in 2024
Looking for festive winter events to attend? The Michigan winter festivals on this list take place between January and March of 2024.
‘Alcohol is Not Your Friend:’ BCBSM Medical Director of Behavioral Health Digs into His Passion for Advocating Against Alcohol Abuse
Dr. William T. Beecroft has advocated against alcohol abuse for much of his 40-plus-year health care career. Here, he reflects and shares some candid thoughts.
Health Benefits of Wallyball
Looking for fun activities this winter? Stop your search at wallyball. Similar to volleyball, this fast-paced indoor sport has plenty of health benefits to offer.
5 Winter Things to Do in Michigan
Activities are easier to come by in the summer than in the winter. We know this. But exciting winter activities in Michigan aren't as limited as you may think. Here are five fun ideas.
Vegan Thanksgiving: Metro Detroit Restaurants, Food Trucks With 2023 Holiday Menus
Detroit area vegans rejoice! There’s a long list of metro Detroit and Michigan restaurants offering 100% plant-based Thanksgiving meals.
Metropolitan Bar + Kitchen Owner Proves You Don't Have to Drink to Run a Successful Bar
Seven years ago, Ashley Price decided to stop drinking. Now the owner of a popular bar in Detroit's West Village, Price is proving you don’t have to drink alcohol to run a successful bar.
Falls 5Ks in Michigan
Are you ready to run this fall? The list of 5Ks happening all across Michigan in October and November is long. Here's where they are and how to sign up.
What is Intuitive Eating?
When you eat intuitively, you listen to your body. You trust it to let you know when you are full and satisfied. You also reject the new fad diet of the month. Here are the benefits and risks.
How I Stay Healthy in College
School is back and so is the juggling act that comes with life on campus for college students. BCBSM'S 2023 corporate communications interns recently shared their diet, exercise and self-care regimens.
More or Less Non-Alcoholic Store Brings Inclusivity to Grand Rapids Consumers
Whether you don't drink any alcohol or you want to go N/A for a certain upcoming occasion, More or Less in Grand Rapids has something for you. The store's owners built their brand with inclusivity in mind, and it's working.
Get Your Garden Ready for the Fall with These Tips
Between weeding, relocating certain plants and testing soil, your garden needs a lot of maintenance at the end of the summer. These seven tips should help.
Dry Bars are Rare in Michigan. But There’s One Inside This Oak Park Coffeehouse.
For Oak Park and Berkley locals, Oak Park Dry is quickly becoming a go-to spot for great music, great coffee and great N/A mixed drinks.
Jackson’s Zero Bar & Lounge Brings the Party to Michigan Events and Celebrations Without Alcohol
One had the dream, one had the drinks: the woman-owned Zero Bar & Lounge adds to the growing list of alcohol-free social options in Michigan.

































































































