Pink Slime is leftover muscle meat separated from fat using high heat and then sprayed with an ammonia wash to kill bacteria before being blended with ground beef. Pink Slime is found in 70% of the ground beef sold at supermarkets and can account for up to 15% of the product. Many experts state it is a cheap ground beef filler. Unfortunately, there is no way to know if your grocery store meat contains Pink Slime, unless it is stamped organic. The label provides no information and most butchers don't know. Does learning about Pink Slime make you think twice about the meat you are purchasing? There are many food choices in the grocery store. If you are interested in learning how to make healthier choices sign up for my Supermarket Safari webinar on August 13th. I can also present to your team 'live' anytime! – Lillian Korbus, EYL Dietician

I'm a planner. I think it stems from a need to know what to expect so I can be prepared for whatever comes my way. But my need to plan is being tested next week and I'm oddly excited for it. A few weeks ago I made a rash decision to drop everything and go to Key West, Florida next week. Normally I plan vacations at least 6 months in advance, but not knowing how we're getting there, what we're doing, or where exactly we're going is exhilarating. It's made me realize spontaneity can be a great thing. I've noticed my overall mood and energy levels have improved and I can't wait to see what next week brings. What have you done spontaneously that turned into a great experience? Did it have a positive impact on your health and well being? – Jennifer Lovequist, EYL Program Coordinator

While I was running, my mind began to wander and start to think about all of the activities I was excited for in this upcoming Spring season like golfing, softball, backyard BBQs, and ultimate frisbee. Just picturing myself on the golf course or at the grill made my run go by faster and had a great impact on my mood for the rest of the day. Visualization is a powerful tool that we can use to help lift our moods or make daunting tasks seem less overwhelming. Do you have Spring fever yet? If so, what activities are you excited for this year? Do you ever find yourself using visualization as a way to complete a challenging task? – Nick Batanian, EYL Fitness Specialist

Most of the questions related to whether we would want to know what our futures held- whether it was in regards to our health, careers, finances, or relationships. Would we want to know the answers, even if we would find out something negative? Throughout the course, my answer was a consistent, resounding - NO! Why on earth would I want to know how things were going to turn out, especially if they are going to be negative? Where's the fun in that, besides I am already a worry-wart, why add to it? However, my once very strong stance is beginning to soften (only a little bit). In December, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because her mother also had breast cancer, the doctor suggested genetic testing, to see if her daughters and granddaughters have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. What that test will mean for the women in my family, I do not know. What I do know is that regardless of the outcome, it has served as another reminder to me about the importance of going to the doctor and taking care of myself. I've realized that maybe I do want answers to the once purely hypothetical questions, at least in regards to my health. What about you? Would you want to know the results of a genetic test? If you could look through a crystal ball and know where you would be in five, ten or twenty years, would you? – Maggie Hills, EYL Program Assistant

As an adult, and an admitted chocoholic, I try my best to steer clear of chocolate milk and drink more water. So you can imagine my surprise when the  American College of Sports Medicine published a study that concluded athletes who drink fat-free chocolate milk after exercising recovered faster than those who consumed water or a sports drink, such as Gatorade. When you exercise, your muscles undergo stress and may experience some damage. You also tap into your body's stored energy supply.Your body needs to replace the nutrients used during your workout to achieve the maximum benefits of exercise. Researchers have found that chocolate milk contains an ideal amount of carbohydrates and protein that is essential for refueling tired or damaged muscles, aiding in the workout recovery process. Another benefit of chocolate milk, besides being so delicious, is that it is cheaper than most sports drinks. What is your favorite exercise drink? Do you have any post workout secrets that you'd like to share? – Kristen Clayton, EYL Program Coordinator

I noticed a woman putting Parmesan Cheese on her salad. Brilliant! Why didn't I think of that? I guess we all get stuck in our salad routines. Mine is always mixed greens with spinach, cucumbers, tomatoes, cottage cheese (which I mix in and use as dressing), eggs, garbanzo beans and raisins. What about you? Do you mix it up or make the same salad creation each time? – Lillian Korbus, EYL Dietician

The authors reviewed 10 new smartphone apps that can help you better manage your health and identify potential health problems before they become life-threatening. Below are a few of my favorites.The full article is linked below. 

• MelApp - This app allows you to snap a photo of a mole and get instant evaluations of potential skin cancer risk. While you shouldn't use this app to diagnosis yourself, it can help you spot trouble areas to discuss with your doctor. 
• iBreastcheck - This app uses slide shows and videos to demonstrate how to perform proper breast self-exams, lets you setup regular reminders and helps you assess your risk for developing breast cancer. 
• Livestrong MyQuit Coach - Anyone who's ever tried to quit smoking knows how difficult it can be. This app will create a personalized plan to help you quit, track your progress, and allow you to contact other quitters for additional support. 

It's truly amazing what smartphones can do these days. Why not take advantage of what they have to offer and help yourself and your health! What other healthy apps do you recommend? To read the full article click here: Parade Article pdf. – Jennifer Lovequist, EYL Program Coordinator

I noticed the other night when I went to the gym how every piece of cardio equipment was taken besides this one, lonely rowing machine. I always make sure to do some sort of cardio exercise during a workout so I hopped on and started rowing. I didn't think that much of it until later that night, when my shoulders and back were more sore than usual. Then it came to me, just changing the machine I normally use in the gym had impacted the intensity of the exercise and forced me to work harder. It is beneficial to cross train your body when you exercise. Using different types of machines and exercises continually changes what muscles are active and doesn't allow your body to get used to that movement. As a result, it forces you to work harder and burn more calories. How about you? Have you changed things up with your work out strategy this New Year? – Nick Batanian, EYL Fitness Specialist

1. Personal Fitness Tracker - Pedometers are a great tool to help encourage physical activity, but if you're looking for something that can do more than just track steps, a personal fitness tracker is the way to go. The Fitbit or the Jawbone UP for Apple products are the newest tools in personal fitness tracking.
2. Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves - For those of you who are brave enough to journey out into the cold to exercise, proper clothing and accessories are crucial. Having to take off gloves to find a good song on your iPod is the worst! Now you don't have to. A number of touchscreen-friendly gloves are now available.
3. Dancing Video Games - Video games have come a long way in the past few years. There are now a few that offer a ton of family fun and encourage physical activity. Just Dance for the Nintendo Wii, Everybody Dance for PlayStation 3, or Dance Central for Xbox 360 are great choices. There's even a Dancing with the Stars game too!

As you're perusing the aisles this holiday season just remember, being healthy can be fun and what better time to get started than the New Year! What other healthy holiday gifts do you suggest? – Jennifer Lovequist, Program Coordinator

Our turkey looked like a photo spread in Cooking Light but when we cut into it we knew something was off. We spent a couple minutes wondering how (oven temperature wasn't accurate) and next steps (throw it on the grill). We were grilling fresh Mahi Mahi shipped from Key West and caught by the host, so the grill was hot and ready. Had it not been for keen observation (the turkey at first glance did appear cooked) a very nice Thanksgiving Day may have turned into a pretty terrible evening. We spend a lot of time here at DTE Energy talking about safety and that goes for food, too. Those Thanksgiving leftovers experts say should have been eaten by Monday or thrown away. See www.fightbac.org for information about food safety. Have you ever learned a food safety lesson the hard way? – Lillian Korbus, EYL Dietician

However, as the holiday season approaches, I find that there are some days where it seems like there are just not enough minutes in the day. Lucky for me, research suggests you can break up your exercise routine into three 10 minute bouts, as long as you are still exercising at a moderate intensity.  So I made it a point to get my 10 minute exercise breaks each day by walking my dog in the morning, before I come into work and again when I get home. I've also been scheduling time every day at lunch to walk the indoor walking route at work with a friend.  I find that each bout of activity is a nice way to take a break from what I am doing and clear my head, leaving me feeling energized.  Because I have gotten into the habit of scheduling these 10 minute active breaks, it has become a part of my daily routine and does not feel like a chore.  It's an active break that I look forward to. On the days when I am able to fit in my regular exercise routine, that's a bonus! Are you finding time for fitness? What are some things that you do to get more activity in your day? – Kristen Clayton, Program Coordinator

It helps things grow, produce, and in some cases generate energy. Not only that but, without water we could only survive up to one week. Just taking into consideration these few examples, it is easy to see that water is very important for our environment and our health. It is recommended that we should consume at least 64 oz. of water every day. It keeps our bodies hydrated and functioning at optimal levels. It has shown to increase energy levels and to keep us focused on the task at hand. Another great reason to drink water is that it makes us get up and get moving. Whether it is to refill your water bottle or use the restroom, drinking water increases your physical activity level. 

Are you drinking at least 64oz of water each day? What strategies are you using to make sure you drink enough water? Do you notice a difference in your energy level when you meet the recommended amount? – Nick Batanian, Fitness Specialist

Our chances of seeing the glorious vitamin D producing sun will really be reduced. Makes me sad just thinking about it.

The shorter days of winter can wreak havoc on our bodies, especially our mental and emotional health.  For me personally, I always find it more difficult to stay positive and upbeat during the winter. I often feel tired and unmotivated; happy to curl up with a blanket in front of the TV for 3 months. Of course I know this is not good for me, so I do my best to take advantage of the light when we do have it and maximizing my daytime on the weekends. I've found having a strong network of friends and family helps. We encourage one another to stay active, eat well and enjoy the good things winter has to offer.

This winter I've decided I'm going to get back into downhill skiing and give cross-country skiing a try. I think finding something enjoyable that you can look forward to during these dark, cold days is key. What do you do to fight the cold winter blues? – Jennifer Lovequist, Program Coordinator

The Opus One Michigan Harvest Dinner remains at the top of my all time favorite list which I had the pleasure of eating around this time last year. The menu consisted entirely of Michigan products including heirloom tomatoes, Lake Perch, ice cream made on the spot from Traverse City cherries to a 4-H raised Blue Ribbon Steer from the Clare County Fair. Black Star Farms wine from Leelanau County was paired with each course and the owner of the winery mingled with guests. We sat at a table with 8 other folks and formed a mini community quickly as we raved about the fabulous meal, which started with the finest ingredients right here from Michigan. Do you have a favorite meal? Please share. I want to go. – Lillian Korbus, EYL Dietician

I joined a 5-person relay with other members of the Energize Your Life team and we managed to finish the 26.2 miles in 4 hours and 12 minutes! Go team! I am so proud of our team and the other 20,000 plus runners who participated in the race. It was inspiring to see so many different people from all over the country in one place running through the heart of Detroit. Every time I turned a corner, there were people shouting words of encouragement. Phrases like "You can do it!, You're doing great!, You're almost there!", kept me trucking along when I felt like I wanted to slow down and walk. After the race, I had an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment because I had just completed my first race with my team by my side. I am so glad that my coworkers and I decided to take part in the 5-person relay and plan to keep training for future races. Did anyone else participate in the Detroit Marathon? Was it your first time participating in the race? How did it make you feel? Are you planning on participating in other events in the future? – Kristen Clayton, Program Coordinator

If you are having a hard time answering this question, you might want to set some time aside to consider an answer.  We all know that identifying your goals (and getting them in writing) is important to achieving success. Studies indicate taking things a step further is the "special sauce" in the recipe for success. Identifying WHY doing something is important to you in very specific and meaningful words can significantly increase the likelihood you'll be successful.

Recently, I found this technique quite helpful while I was working to stick to a morning exercise routine. Getting up at 5:30am is very tough for me. Especially when it's dark outside! So I came up with the reasons why getting up was important and these reasons are what keep me going 1 year later.

1. Exercise now...feel better all day knowing I don't have to exercise later.
2. Taking time for me now means I'll be happier to give more time to others later.
3. I do NOT want to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes like my dad was - regular exercise is one of the most important preventive steps I can take.

So, what drives you?  What motivates you to stay the course? –Susan M. Bailey, Program Manager

The team and I have been training hard to prepare body and mind for race day and are looking forward to the challenge. I would not consider myself a runner, but for some reason I really do enjoy "pounding the pavement." It could be the stress relief or the sense of accomplishment I get afterwards that makes me feel that much better. On top of that, I know that my body benefits from the workout as well. Cardio type exercise that includes jogging, swimming, or biking have been linked in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases like Heart Disease, Diabetes, Arthritis, and even some forms of cancer. 

What types of cardio exercise do you enjoy? Have you participated in any walks or runs over the past few months and how did you train for it?  Are you participating in any upcoming events, like the Detroit Free Press Marathon? - Nick Batanian, Fitness Specialist

Unfortunately, it has created a mindset in which we believe if we work harder and become more successful we'll achieve happiness. I hear people all the time saying "I'll be happy when..." - when I graduate college, when I get that next big promotion, when I start a family, when I retire. I'm guilty of this myself, but if we keep waiting for the next big thing, will we ever truly be happy?

Research on happiness suggests we're setting ourselves up to fail. Happiness is not achieved, it's created. Being happy requires that we enjoy the journey as much as the destination. This is definitely easier said than done, but we can train ourselves to be happier in the moment. Focus on the positive, change the "I'll be happy when" story to an "I'll be happy now" story, be thankful for the good things in life, and take advantage of what life has to offer you today. I'm trying to make more of an effort to be happy today. I'll focus on tomorrow later. What do you do to focus on the now and create happiness in your life?

If you're interested in learning more about the science of happiness, I'd recommend reading "The Happiness Advantage" by Shawn Achor. – Jennifer Lovequist, Program Coordinator

I have come to love and hate this sign. I love it because it is a reminder that I need to sit up straight, engage my core, and relax shoulder muscles, all things that will strengthen my core and help me to relax. I hate the sign because it is a reminder that yet again I need to sit up straight, engage my core, and relax shoulder muscles. How often do I find myself slouching? Unfortunately, often! I thought I was conscious but this sign takes on a whole new meaning. My Are You Active Sitting sign stuck on my monitor with tape is a powerful reminder of the power of reminders! I notice more body awareness and a stronger core after living with my sign for a few months. So love it or hate it, I am keeping it. What about you? Do you have any pictures, signs, or phrases that help keep you on track? - Lillian Korbus, EYL Dietician