Add Constipation to Postpartum List of Problems

New moms are often surprised when they experience a bout of constipation after giving birth, unaware that this is actually a very common postpartum complaint.

Many women may experience constipation following childbirth, due to the slowdown of the digestive system and temporary loss of muscle tone in the abdomen. But there are other explanations. Factors that may contribute to constipation include: medications administered for postpartum pain, prenatal vitamins continued while breast feeding and anesthesia administered during labor.

A fear of pushing can also cause a cycle of constipation. New moms may be hesitant to strain themselves because of post-childbirth tenderness, fear of tearing a stitch or pain from hemorrhoids. C-sections can also contribute.

Do You Take Drinking Water for Granted?

You turn on the tap, and water comes out. Period. Safe, plentiful and affordable drinking water is one of our nation’s most precious resources and something most of us take for granted.

But what if you turned on the tap and nothing happened, or if the water you drank made you sick?

While pouring a glass of water may seem simple, before it arrives at your tap there is a complex process of collecting, storing, treating and distributing the water that helps ensure its availability and quality. In fact, water utilities implement comprehensive water management plans to ensure that adequate amounts of drinking water are available. These include conservation and reuse, reclamation and sourcing strategies.

Engineering Technology Fields See Continued Job Growth

Technology has become a seamless part of our everyday lives, from the time we wake up until we go to bed. Both at work and at home, we use technology to some extent in completing the majority of personal and professional tasks – from downloading music and playing games to communicating with clients and personal banking.

In this fast-paced world, relevance is fleeting, and new product launches make existing technologies obsolete seemingly overnight. The constant evolution of the industry means new job opportunities will continue to rise for professionals with relevant skills. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of computer software engineers is expected to increase by 32 percent from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations, particularly for those with bachelor’s degrees.

Fresh Mussels Make 2012 Wellness Goals Taste Great

Every January, our focus turns to kicking off the year with a renewed commitment to healthy eating. We join gyms and invest in the latest protein powders and high-fiber shakes in pursuit of a healthier life. But did you know there’s a delicious powerhouse food that’s easy to make and won’t break your wallet just waiting to help us meet our goals?

“Fresh mussels are packed with important health benefits. They are rich in nutrients without adding significant calories or fat to meals,” says registered dietitian Lois Ferguson, as he explains the benefits of fresh PEI mussels compared to other proteins like meat and poultry. “This makes them the perfect food for people who aim to live a life of fitness and health.”

Take Advantage of Programmable Thermostats to Maximize Energy Savings

From smart phones to programmable thermostats, today’s electronics come equipped with advanced operating systems that make life easier and more efficient. The challenge is knowing how to take full advantage of the capabilities of these devices.

Consider indoor environment devices like programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats are capable of controlling the entire heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system – from heating to indoor air quality and energy management.

“Adjusting the temperature up and down doesn’t equate to savings or even comfort in the home,” said Jonathan Payne, product manager of programmable controls at Carrier. “The key to total comfort is the homeowner’s ability to control the temperature, humidity, air circulation and energy use.”

Is Your Dog the Worst Behaved Dog in America?

Is your dog bad to the bone? Does your sweet Jack Russel guard all doors from intruders – friends and family included? Or is it your Boxer puppy that won’t stop shredding socks and underwear? Some of the cutest pooches have the worst manners. Whether you’re at work or just in another room, their mischievous play may lead to anything from home repairs to staggering vet bills.

Pets and owners alike can relate to this common problem, but getting the magical, behavioral transformation you’ve always dreamt of is closer than you think.

The Value of an MBA

As the economy begins to improve, all industries will require the expertise of management professionals to help sustain financial growth and prepare for new organizational structure.
Many recent grads and working professionals consider earning a master’s degree in business administration (MBA ) to set themselves apart. According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), 67 percent of employers expect to hire recently graduated management talent in 2012, and they plan to hire in increasing numbers.

It is important to remember, however, that there are no guarantees; it is important to determine the true value of an MBA in each unique career field.

Tips to Entertain at Home the Kardashian Way

So, you say you want to learn to throw a party worthy of the Kardashians? Well, admittedly, that’s asking a lot. After all, one of their more recent bashes featured synchronized swimmers – it was a poolside event – surprising guests with a routine straight out of a 1950s Esther Williams movie.

But take heart.

The Kardashian sisters – who seemingly never run out of mind-blowing ideas – didn’t think that party highlight up themselves. Linnea Johansson, author of “Perfect Parties: Tips and Advice from a New York Planner,” did. And even if you don’t have money to throw around, she says to apply the “same principle” of doing “something unexpected” at your event.

Get Heart-Healthy With White Bean Chili

Hearty stews and belly-warming soups are coming out of the kitchens; frost is sparkling, and winter jackets are coming out of hiding. Families are craving slow-cooked, savory meals that yield health benefits and leftovers.

A delicious savory ingredient is the Oso Sweet Onion, grown at the foot of the Andes Mountains. Onions are not only believed to be a cancer preventative, their low-salt, low-fat health benefits are the proactive equivalent to superhero powers. Onions have 25 compounds that lower blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent thrombosis, inhibit strokes and battle heart disease, says the American Heart Association.