Wellness

BGG’s Back-to-School Checklist: Get An A+ in Eye Care

August 11, 2014

It’s hard to believe that my baby girl, Ava, will be starting preschool in a few short weeks.

Like many moms, there are plenty of errands that I need to do in preparation for her big day. From shopping for school supplies to updating her wardrobe, my checklist seems to be endless. While those tasks are priorities, scheduling an appointment with her eye doctor tops the list.

Last month, I attended an event hosted by The Eye Solution/Kids Vision for Life where I learned more about the importance of good eye health. We all know that children need to visit their pediatricians annually, but oftentimes we parents forget to get our little one’s eyes checked out too. Oh, and those quick “eye exams” during routine physicals don’t count.

During the event, I spoke with several experts and learned that this oversight (no pun intended) can lead to mislabeling in school, which can ultimately have avoidable negative effects on students.

For example, a child may not be able to see the blackboard/whiteboard in class and will subsequently say the wrong answer simply because he’s suffering from vision problems. Initially, teachers or parents may conclude that the child is having academic challenges when in fact all he needs is a pair of glasses.

#171275271 / gettyimages.com

Being an ’80’s baby who grew up watching the popular ’90’s TV show, “Beverly Hills, 90210,” I was pleased to know that actress Jennie Garth, is teaming up with The Eye Solution to launch the “Get An A+ in Eye Care” campaign, a program that inspires people to help provide good eye health and vision correction for children (ages 5-12) in need across the U.S. The campaign is simple: see good, share good, and make good happen.

Plus, there’s a social media component that encourages people to “like” The Eye Solution on Facebook to help give back.” For every “like” on The Eye Solution Facebook page, (Alcon) will donate $1 up to $50,000 to help fund more than 1000 eye exams and eyeglasses for underserved children across the country.

Remember, our children’s vision health is incredibly important to their overall well-being and academic success. Don’t forget to make time for them to see an eye doctor annually after the age of 3.

Check out these Eye-Opening Facts from Kids Vision For Life:

*1 out of 4 children in the U.S has a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through his eyes
*25% of all school children in the U.S have a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*90% of children who need glasses do not have them
*44% of parents are not aware that behavioral problems can be an indication that a child’s vision is impaired

**GIVEAWAY**In celebration of Back-to-School season, I’m giving away a gift bag filled with eye care goodies for the whole family. Simply leave a comment below and a winner will be randomly selected and announced next Monday, August 18th. This giveaway is open to U.S residents only.

If you have a school-aged child at home, do you schedule annual eye exams for him/her?

Category: Giveaway, Giveaways, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Product Review: CurlyKids Hair Care Line

July 22, 2014

We are witnessing a natural hair revolution.

For the first time in decades, we BGs are embracing and proudly flaunting our natural hair textures in droves. But, the best part of this newfound self-acceptance is that we are teaching our children to love their kinks, coils and curls too!

Thanks to brands like CurlyKids, a hair care line that caters to kids’ curly-haired needs, moms like me can comb and style our little one’s hair with confidence.

For the past six months, I’ve been consistently using CurlyKids products on my daughter’s hair. Created to treat a multitude of curly hair textures, especially those with excessive dryness and breakage, the line includes: shampoo, conditioner, gel, control paste, curl defining lotion and detangling sprays.

CurlyKids Hair Care available here, $5 each

Usually, I tend to use a variety of product brands to achieve a desired effect or style. But, this time I wanted to see how the entire line worked together. And, I’m glad I did.

Ava getting her hair washed using CurlyKids Shampoo & Conditioner.

From the sulfate-free shampoo to the frizz-taming control paste, I’ve been pleased with how well the products complement each other. Since she has super dry, easy-to-tangle hair, I have to use products that will properly moisturize without leaving behind a greasy or sticky residue. Luckily, CurlyKids gets the job done.

Ava sporting her signature topknot using CurlyKids Curly Gel Moisturizer.

Out of the line, the Curly Gel Moisturizer and the Super Detangling Spray are my two faves. The gel is fragrance free and doesn’t create that unsightly flakey crust that we all dread. Plus, it adds moisture while taming her curly fly-aways. The Super Detangling Spray makes manageability a breeze because it unsnarls her strands effortlessly.

I achieved this pigtail look by using CurlyKids Control Paste, Gel Moisturizer and Detangling Spray.

Although the brand’s site says it’s for “mixed hair,” my daughter is 100% African-American so it’s safe to say that it’s suitable for ALL curly hair types. Oh and to top it off, all of their products are only $5!

If your little one is in need of some TLC for her tresses, definitely check out CurlyKids!

What products do you use to keep your kids’ hair looking good?

Category: Baby, Beauty, Hair, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 3 Comments

Must See TV (Kids): Sprout Channel to Launch Original Animated Series ‘Astroblast!’

July 10, 2014

Being a parent of two children under the age of 5, I’m pretty familiar with Sprout. If you’re not, it’s a 24-hour cable TV channel that caters to the toddler and preschool set.

This Saturday, July 12th, the 9 year old NBC-owned network is premiering its original animated series, “Astroblast!”

“Astroblast!” premieres Saturday, July 12 at 1pm & 8pm EST on Sprout. The series will continue airing daily during “The Sunny Side Up Show” and “The Good Night Show.”

Co-produced by the children’s book publishing powerhouse, Scholastic Media, “Astroblast!” aims to entertain while educating kids. With a cast of animal characters, the series imparts important messages about how to embrace differences, model positive relationships and foster healthy eating habits all while taking viewers on exciting adventures in outer space.

My daughter has been anticipating the launch of the space-themed show for weeks. That’s why I was beyond thrilled when we were invited to attend a sneak peek of the series at the super cute restaurant, The Sugar Factory here in New York.

I was happy that Ava would get to see some of the show before its debut and I was excited to finally visit The Sugar Factory. For those who are familiar with my blog know that I am candy obsessed; so a trip to the sweets-centric hotspot was like a little slice of heaven for me.

We watched a snippet of the show as we noshed on fried mac-n-cheese balls, mini burgers, chicken fingers, french fries and other yummy kid-friendly fare. Plus, there were fruit smoothies specially made as a nod to one of the ongoing themes of the show. And, of course there were sweet treats galore. From an ice cream sundae bar with every topping imaginable to chocolate fondue to unlimited candies of all kinds, The Sugar Factory definitely lived up to its name.

If your kids are into fun-loving space creatures, “Astroblast!” is a must-see. Oh, and if you’re looking for a restaurant to take your kids on a weekend afternoon or maybe a sweet date night with your guy, The Sugar Factory is a great choice.

In addition, to celebrate the series’ launch, there will be “Astroblast! Space Camp Tour.” Free and open to the public, the tour will offer kids and families the opportunity to participate in an exciting interactive space experience complete with activities and games in the spirit of the series.

Here are the remaining tour dates:

Denver, CO on Saturday, July 12
Phoenix, AZ on Saturday, July 19
Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27
San Diego, CA on Saturday, August 2

For more information visit: www.sproutonline.com.

Don’t forget to tune in Saturday. We’ll be watching!

Do your children watch the Sprout network? What was your favorite cartoon growing up?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

MyMediMates: A Cool Way to Safeguard Kids Who Suffer from Food Allergies

July 1, 2014

There are nearly 6 million young children in the United States living with food allergies.

Unfortunately, my daughter is one of them. She suffers from soy, egg and peanut allergies. It breaks my heart that she’s never had the pleasure of eating one of my special mug-made omelets or indulging in a chocolate cake on her birthday. While I know that she can’t have those things amongst other foods, many will not always be aware.

Now that she’s starting preschool soon and participating in more social activities outside of the home, I have to ensure that individuals are alerted of her potentially life-threatening allergies. That’s why MyMediMates’ wristbands are a must for moms and parents like me.

MyMediMates are available here, $7

Founded by a mom, these brightly colored, adjustable wristbands serve as a creative and effective safeguard against accidental food consumption or any other health related issues including: diabetes, autism, asthma, etc.. Plus, the cartoon characters found on each band make it fun for kids to wear.

If your child suffers from any kind of food allergy or health issue and spends time at daycare, camp, school or even attends sleepovers, these wristbands are a smart buy!

Does your child suffer from a food allergy?

Category: Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

National HIV Testing Day: Dr. Rachael Ross Speaks On Its Importance

June 27, 2014

A few weeks ago I teamed up with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to bring you guys an up close and personal look at HIV by sharing the stories of two brave women living with the disease. Now it’s time for all of us to do our part and take action against new infections by getting tested.

In case you didn’t know, today (Friday, June 27th) is National HIV Testing Day. What better day than the present to know your status? Especially, when statistics show that we BGs are disproportionately affected by the disease. OraQuick Advance, the first FDA-approved in-home oral rapid HIV test, makes it simple and easy to find out where you stand. In fact, you can get results in as little as 20 minutes.

OraQuick is available at drugstores nationwide, $39.99

Famed physician Dr. Rachael Ross (co-host of “The Doctors”) has joined forces with OraQuick to help spread the message about the importance of getting tested. I recently spoke with Dr. Ross, who is also an author and sexologist about her partnership, startling facts and advice for those who may receive a positive diagnosis.

Photo via: TVrage.com

Check out some of the highlights from our chat:

BGG: There are many opportunities to help raise HIV awareness, why did you want to partner with OraQuick?

Dr. Rachael Ross: OraQuick is the only advance that I can 100% put myself behind. I’ve been an HIV advocate since college. So, to be able to do it now as a practicing physician and media personality is huge. If I can encourage one or two people to go out and get tested, I’m preventing. I’m preventing them from passing it on to the next person and I’m also preventing them from having a shortened life span (because they won’t be taking the proper medications). I’m also doing prevention because they may even tell their family and friends. Anytime I can use my platform to talk about HIV prevention, which is at the core of my heart, I’m on it.

BGG: Is OraQuick just as effective as someone being tested in a clinic/doctor’s office?

Dr. Ross: Nine times out of ten, if you ask for a rapid test at a clinic they’re going to give you the same one that would be found at the store. The only difference is that it may be packaged differently for at-home consumption. For example, there might be a 800-number if you have questions. OraQuick is 99% accurate and allows you to do the testing in the comfort of your home. However, with any type of rapid testing, it takes 3-6 months for the test to show positivity. So, if you contracted HIV last week, the test is not going to let you know that. That’s the case with all rapid tests, whether it’s at the clinic or at home. I encourage anyone who thinks they may as though they may have contracted HIV within the past few weeks; they’re going to have to get a blood test to get that information.

BGG: What do you think is the most important thing we can do to help reverse the stigma attached to HIV?

Dr.Ross: I’m not sure there’s a stigma. I think what needs to happen is that people need to understand that there are currently 1.1 million living with the virus in the United States and many of them don’t know it. Also, African-Americans are 8 times more likely to contract the virus than anyone else in this country. HIV is so preventable and it’s running rampant in our community. Half of HIV infections are concentrated in the South where we are, as well as our HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities).

NOTE: HIV testing is especially important in the African American community, where HIV incidences are growing. Unless the course of the epidemic changes, at some point in their lifetime, an estimated 1 in 16 black men and 1 in 32 black women will be diagnosed with HIV.

BGG: Why do you think it is that we don’t hear much about HIV-related cases as much as we did in the ’80s and ’90s?

Dr. Ross: HIV used to be a death sentence, but it’s now considered a chronic illness. Since we’ve gotten away from 20-somethings dying, we’ve moved to this thing that we can’t see. HIV is now easy to manage and you don’t really have to tell people that you have it. You can take your medication and vitamins and people won’t know. Also, because it predominately affects African-Americans. When you have illnesses that predominately affect minorities, it’s not on the minds of the majority. Therefore, it’s not going to be something that we talk about regularly.

BGG: What advice would you give to someone who has just received a positive HIV diagnosis?

Dr. Ross: First, recognize that it is not the end of the world and that life continues to go on. Second, get a support system together. In most cases that’s going to be your family; be careful with your friends because friends gossip. Third, get a really good infectious disease doctor. You can’t go to your primary care doctor because you need someone who specializes in HIV care. Also, plan for your future. If you do become positive, remember that it is illegal in many states to have unprotected sex with someone without informing them about your status. Your whole life changes so you have to be protective of yourself and those around you. Knowing and getting on medication is the best thing you can do for yourself.

For more information on HIV prevention, testing, facts, etc, please visit www.cdc.gov/hiv/

Will you get tested today in honor of National HIV Testing Day?

Category: Interviews, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Protect Your Peepers: Contact Lenses that Serve as a Sun Defense

June 18, 2014

Most of us know the importance of using sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect our skin from harmful UV rays. But, I bet you didn’t know that contact lenses can also serve as a barrier for our eyes.

Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses is the only major brand to offer a complete line of UV-blocking lenses. In fact, their OASYS® lenses provide the highest level of protection against 96% of UV-A rays and 99% of UV-B rays that reach the cornea.

Since I currently wear eyeglasses and am looking to make the switch to contact lenses, this is wonderful news! I’m all about protecting all parts of my body from the sun, especially during the summer when my exposure is heightened.

Visit www.acuvue.com for more information

Check out these sun safety tips from NYC-based optometrist Dr. Susan Resnick to help you have a healthy summer:

Wear wraparound sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses
Be wary of cloudy days – you can get just as much UV exposure when it is cloudy, as you can on a bright, clear day
Be cautious around water and snow, as reflections from both can bounce up and into the eye
The sun is most dangerous for the eyes when you least expect it – in the morning and in the evening – when the sun is in direct line with the eye

Do you wear contacts or eyeglasses? How do you protect yourself from UV rays?

Category: Wellness | 1 Comment

Let’s #StopHIVTogether: Two Moms’ Inspiring Stories

May 16, 2014

Recent comments in the news regarding Magic Johnson’s HIV status prove that the stigma and lack of education surrounding this disease still exists.

Last Friday, I had the opportunity to participate in a conference call facilitated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn more about the disease, as well as ways to join them in their Let’ Stop HIV Together campaign.

During the call, I had the chance to hear two incredibly heartfelt stories from mothers living with HIV. Being a mom of two, coupled with the fact that the call took place only two days prior to Mother’s Day made their stories even more impactful.

Michelle, a Brooklyn resident shared her story first. Her accounts of surviving child sexual abuse and domestic abuse before being diagnosed with HIV back in 1991 were heartbreaking. But, hearing her divulge that her baby (at the time) daughter, Raven, was also infected was shattering.

Although she and her daughter, who is now 22, have suffered many trials and tribulations throughout the years, they currently stand together in the fight against this disease by educating society through raising awareness about getting testing and having access to the proper treatment.

Watch Michelle’s story:

While Michelle’s story was moving, for some reason Masonia’s really resonated with me. Her candidness and transparency was refreshing. She spoke openly about her vigilance in getting tested frequently after becoming sexually active. However, in 2010 due to a lapse in health insurance, she was unable to get her annual test. Unfortunately, after a routine gynecological visit, she received the devastating news that she was HIV positive despite being in a long-term “committed” relationship. Not only did she find out that she had contracted the disease, but that she was also pregnant.

Knowing first-hand the physical and mental struggles associated with pregnancy compounded with having HIV and the uncertainty of your unborn child’s health, almost seems too much for any woman to bear. Luckily, her baby tested negative for the disease. Despite her status, Masonia decided to also use her diagnosis to help educate people about the disease and encourage preventative measures.

Watch Masonia’s story:

Hearing these two brave women’s stories has definitely enlightened me. It’s also motivated me to help spread the facts about HIV. Since the disease is disproportionately affecting our communities, it’s our responsibility to erase the stigma, as well as educate in an effort to prevent and ultimately eradicate this disease.

Check out these stats from the CDC:

* At the end of 2010, one in four people living with HIV in the United States were Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino women

*One in four people living with HIV infection in the United States are women.

*Most new HIV infections in women are from heterosexual contact (84%).

*Only about half of women who are diagnosed with HIV are in care, and even fewer (4 in 10) have the virus under control.

*All pregnant women should be screened for HIV as early as possible during each pregnancy.

*Women with HIV who take antiretroviral medication during pregnancy as recommended can reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to their babies to less than 1%

Get involved and follow the #StopHIVTogether campaign on Facebook and Twitter!

Disclosure: This post is made possible by support from the Let’s Stop HIV Together campaign. All opinions are my own.

Do you get tested for HIV annually?

Category: Wellness | 3 Comments