Health

Enhancing health and well-being locally, nationally, and globally

All Paws In – Join Us for UConn Gives

In a time of extraordinary circumstances, UConn has adapted by seeking new opportunities and new ways to keep UConn Nation connected in a socially distant world. Through all the change and uncertainty, there has been one constant—our commitment to providing an exceptional education to our program participants. During this year’s UConn Gives, a 36-hour giving initiative, […]

Undergraduate Summer Internships with UConn Extension

Applications are being accepted for UConn Extension’s undergraduate summer internship program. Students: Get paid and gain valuable in-the-field experience in your chosen discipline at an in-state Extension office location. • Food • Health • Nutrition • Sustainability • Research • Agribusiness • Youth Education • Community Development • Marketing Learn where Extension offices are located across the […]

Connecticut Trail Census Welcomes New Graduate Assistant

UConn Extension is excited to welcome Eniola Fasola as Connecticut Trail Census‘s newest graduate assistant.  Eniola obtained her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Economics at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and the University of Connecticut, respectively. Currently, she is doing her Ph.D. in Agricultural and Resource Economics at The University of Connecticut. Eniola will be […]

Extension Impacts – 2020

Extension is a part of UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources (CAHNR). We have over 100 years of experience strengthening communities in Connecticut and beyond. Extension programs cover the full spectrum of topics aligned with CAHNR’s strategic initiatives: Ensuring a vibrant and sustainable agricultural industry and food supply Enhancing health and well-being locally, […]

CT Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Member Spotlight: Heather Peracchio MS, RDN, CD-N

Heather Peracchio MS, RDN, CD-N Do you have a current/past  position with the CT AND Board? I have been many positions on the CT AND board but currently I am the Food Security and Sustainability Co-Chair.   What inspired you to become a RDN? My first year at UConn I found the course ‘The Science […]

Making Maple Syrup in Your Own Back Yard CLEAR Webinar

As winter winds down, and you’re considering outdoor, low-risk activities, making a small batch of maple syrup at home with your family might be a fun and healthy choice. This webinar will provide all the essential information you’ll need to get started, from identifying which of your trees might be sugar maples, to tapping, boiling […]

Connecting Connecticut: A New Podcast from UConn Extension

  Land-grant universities have provided communities, organizations, farmers and individuals with practical knowledge rooted in research through the Cooperative Extension System since the passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914. Over the last 107 years a lot has changed with our Extension systems. The program has expanded beyond its agricultural production origin to encompass a […]

National Heart Health Month

February is National Heart Health month! Hiking provides all of the classic health benefits you get from most cardio exercises. It improves blood pressure, lowers your risk of heart disease, decreases cholesterol, and helps control your weight. There is nothing better than getting some fresh air in Winter if you feel cooped up. Hiking is […]

2021 FSMA Produce Safety Alliance Remote Grower Training Course

2021 FSMA Produce Safety Alliance Remote Grower Training Course : Register here: http://cahnrconference.uconn.edu Date/Time of Event: Monday, March 8th, 2021: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 9th, 2021, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Contact Person Phone and Email: Indu Upadhyaya, 860-786-8191, indu.upadhyaya@uconn.edu Instructors Indu Upadhyaya, Ph.D., Food Safety Specialist, UConn Cooperative Extension Diane Hirsch, MPH, Food Safety […]

La Dieta Sin Gluten. ¿Es para mí?

Artículo por Sherry Gray, MPH, RD, CD-N Article also available in English. Click here to view. La etiqueta alimentaria sin gluten está en muchos alimentos en la tienda de comestibles y es popular seguir una dieta sin gluten. Se estima que más del 30% de la población de América del Norte ha adoptado un estilo […]

The Gluten Free Diet. Is it for Me?

Written by Sharon Gray, MPH, RD, CD-N El artículo también está disponible en Español. Haga clic aquí para ver. Gluten free labeling is on many foods in the grocery store and following the gluten free diet is popular. It is estimated that over 30% of the North American population has embraced a gluten-free lifestyle. But […]

Explore CT Trails with Help from Our Trails 101 Video Series

Written By Marissa DiBella Connecticut offers a wealth of outdoor spaces from city parks to rural area trail systems where people can engage in all types of activities such as hiking, biking, and nature watching while adhering to social distancing guidelines. Spending time outdoors is a great way to get exercise, reduce stress, and can […]

Rooting for Winter – Put Local on Your Tray

Are you root-ing for winter? Winter roots include carrots, beets, potatoes, and more! Click here for ideas on how to incorporate these delicious roots into your meals. Put Local on Your Tray’s “Root-ing for Winter” campaign is working towards connecting schools with local farmers to increase the incorporation of local root vegetables in school meals. Click […]

What is Extension – New Video Released

UConn Extension connects thousands of people across Connecticut and beyond each year, with the research and resources of the University of Connecticut’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. We are comprised of more than 100 educators and a vast network of volunteers. UConn Extension works collaboratively to build more resilient communities through educational initiatives […]

Eat SMART in the New Year!

Written by UConn registered dietitian-nutritionist Donna Zigmont, RDN, CD-N   Source: Free goal setting clip art Every January, millions of Americans make New Year’s resolutions to make positive changes in their lives. After a very difficult 2020 due to COVID-19, we are hopeful that 2021 will be more promising for all of us. Many of […]

Mackenzie and Alyson’s Volunteer Experience with the Coordinated Program Dietetics

Mackenzie Lane and Alyson Gaylord, Coordinated Program Dietetics students in the Department of Allied Health Sciences in the UConn College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources volunteered with Foodshare at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. The experience is part of the dietetic education program. Watch to learn more about the food distribution center and how […]

UConn 4-H in 40: Surviving the Holidays

UConn 4-H presents 4-H in 40 A Series of Virtual Workshops for Adults the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm.  These workshops are open to any interested adults- volunteers, 4-H leaders, parents, and community members. The opportunity to register will continue through the year. Each presentation is 20-30 minutes long, followed by 10-20 minutes […]

Ebony Horsewomen: Empowering Hartford for Over 36 Years

Ebony Horsewomen, Incorporated is a non-profit equestrian facility in the North End of Hartford that has been empowering Hartford, Bloomfield, and Windsor residents through equine programs for over 36 years. Patricia “Pat” Kelly is the program founder and CEO. The programs offered by Ebony Horsewomen include youth development, mental health, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. An […]

UConn Extension: Committed to a Sustainable Future 

Connecticut has faced challenges related to sustainable landscapes, food and agriculture, health, and the climate for generations. As problems are solved, new issues arise. UConn Extension educators work in all 169 cities and towns of Connecticut to help solve the problems that our residents, communities, and state face. Connecting people with agriculture, the natural environment, […]

Trails 101 Video Series Helps New Users Enjoy CT Trails

This time of the year, Connecticut residents are heading outside to enjoy the cool fall temperatures and beautiful New England scenery. Connecticut offers a wealth of outdoor spaces from city parks to rural area trail systems where people can engage in all types of activities such as hiking, biking, and nature watching while adhering to […]

Food Safety Tips For Your Holiday Turkey

The holidays are a time to enjoy your family and friends— Avoid putting a damper on the holiday fun because of unsafe food handling and cooking practices. Follow these tips to play it safe this holiday season: http://bit.ly/Turkey_FoodSafety. Los días festivos son días para disfrutar en familia y con amistades— Evite poner un amortiguador a la […]

What has changed on your trails as a result of COVID-19?

Our Connecticut Trail Census has launched a survey to understand the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on trails and trail management. The survey is intended for trail managers of non-motorized trails in Connecticut takes about 10 minutes to complete. Please take a few moments to respond to the survey. The survey will remain open until Wednesday, […]

Job Opening: Director of Communications

Job Opening: The College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) at the University of Connecticut is seeking a full-time Director of Communications. Reporting to the Dean, the incumbent in this position will provide vision, leadership, and direction to support CAHNR’s communication and marketing strategies and promote its brand and reputation. The Communications Director must […]

Cleaning and Disinfecting High Touch Surfaces

Many surfaces inside your home are frequently touched by household members throughout the day. These are called ‘High Touch Surfaces.” You can limit the transmission of dirt, bacteria, and viruses by following a daily routine. COVID-19, which is caused by a virus, requires cleaning and disinfecting practices to make your home a healthier place. High […]

Mystic Aquarium and CVMDL are Enhancing Animal Health and Learning Experiences

Visiting an aquarium transports people to another world, an underwater world filled with many different plants and animals. Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut cares for 5,000 animals from over 355 species, from octopus to beluga whales and sea lions. Studying these animals offers a unique opportunity to learn about conserving these species in the wild, […]

How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds!

Written by UConn Dietetics Student Hannah Waxler The Fall season brings to us a favorite squash!! Pumpkin! Did you know it’s a squash? Pumpkin and the spices that seem to flavor it best are added to just about everything: pumpkin coffee, pumpkin muffins, and of course, pumpkin pie! As delicious as pumpkin treats are, did […]

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week Webinars

This is a message from the Healthy Homes Partnership Welcome! Each year, the National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) outreach campaign is aimed at awareness, action, and prevention. We bring together individuals, diverse organizations, industry, and state, tribal, and local governments nationwide. NLPPW is held this year from October 25‐31, 2020. NLPPW highlights the many […]

Pumpkin’s a Good Pick for Your Health!

Written by UConn Dietetics Student Alexa Horkachuck Autumn is finally here, which means that pumpkin flavored products are flooding into your local grocery store. If you’re a fan, you will find everything from pumpkin cream cheese and pumpkin spice lattes to pumpkin pastas and soups. There is bound to be a recipe that you would […]

Fall is Here – Stay Hydrated

Written by UConn Dietetics Masters Student Shawn Lada We may be having cooler days now, but it is always important to stay hydrated. Keeping your body hydrated helps your heart, brain, muscles, and joints to stay healthy, along with keeping you regular and preventing urinary tract infections! During hotter days and summer months your body […]

Cholesterol Education with the UConn Dietetics Program

Written by UConn Dietetics student Madeline Fulton 93 million U.S. adults age 20 or older have total cholesterol levels higher than 200 mg/dL. Nearly 29 million adult Americans have total cholesterol levels higher than 240 mg/dL.1 Too much cholesterol circulating in your blood can put you at risk for developing heart disease and stroke. What […]