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Addressing Disparities in HIV Mortality

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Addressing Disparities in HIV Mortality


Since the introduction of ART in 1996, mortality rates among people with HIV have significantly declined. A new study goes into the trends of cause-specific mortality in those who began ART in Europe and North America, uncovering disparities in the reductions of deaths, particularly from AIDS, across different subgroups. Decreases in the primary causes of death, especially AIDS-related fatalities among people with HIV on ART, were not uniform across all subgroups. Interventions aimed at high-risk populations, managing substance abuse, and treating coexisting health conditions could elevate the life expectancy of people with HIV to levels closer to those of the general population.

The research took data from 189,301 HIV-positive individuals, and 16,832 deaths (8.9%) across 1,519,200 persons to years of observation. AIDS was the leading cause, accounting for 4203 deaths (25.0%), with non-AIDS cancers excluding hepatitis and cardiovascular diseases following. A sharp decline in AIDS-related death proportions from 49% in 1996-1999 to 16% in 2016-2020 was observed, alongside a significant drop in the overall mortality rate from 16.8 per 1000 person-years in the late 1990s to 7.9 in recent years.

“The main strengths of this study are the large sample size, geographical diversity, representativeness of the included people with HIV, and the availability of data on cause-specific mortality, classified according to a common protocol,” investigators wrote. “However, causes of death were classified retrospectively and without complete patient histories, so misclassification is more likely than if the causes had been classified based on full medical history. Autopsy, which is becoming less common over time remains the gold standard for classifying causes of death, and clinical classifications might not correlate well with those from autopsy reports.”

Significant declines were also noted in mortality rates from cardiovascular issues, liver problems, non-AIDS infections, non-AIDS cancers excluding hepatocellular carcinoma, and deaths from suicide or accidents. However, an increase in mortality rates was observed among women who acquired HIV through injecting drug use, with a slight decrease noted among men in this group.

3 Key Takeaways

  1. While the introduction of ART has dramatically reduced mortality rates among people with HIV, the decline in AIDS-related deaths and other causes of mortality has not been uniform across all subgroups.
  2. The study emphasizes the need for interventions specifically designed for high-risk populations, alongside strategies to manage substance abuse and coexisting health conditions.
  3. The findings advocate for a comprehensive public health approach that extends beyond improving ART outcomes

“For some people with HIV, there was information on a number of comorbidities or potential causes of death, which could lead to the death being classified as of unknown cause or unclassifiable,” according to investigators. “In particular, HIV was previously more likely to be mentioned as a cause on a death certificate because the person who died had HIV, even if it was irrelevant to the death. The Coding Causes of Death (CoDe) processes and rules were set up to minimize the impact of this, by accounting for recent CD4 counts and AIDS diagnoses rather than relying solely on death certificate information.”

The study advocates for public health strategies that not only continue to improve ART outcomes but also address the broader social and health-related challenges faced by people living with HIV. Creating interventions to the specific needs of high-risk groups and addressing substance use and comorbidity management could enhance life expectancy between individuals with HIV and the general population, moving towards an era where HIV diagnosis does not dictate a significantly shortened lifespan.

Reference

Trickey A, McGinnis K, Gill M, Abgrall S, Berenguer J, et. al. Longitudinal trends in causes of death among adults with hiv on antiretroviral therapy in Europe and north America from 1996 to 2020: a collaboration of cohort studies. The Lancet. Published January 24, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2024. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2352-3018(23)00272-2



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Bacon Crackers | The Recipe Critic

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Bacon Crackers | The Recipe Critic


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

Introducing the easiest and tastiest appetizer that every party needs! Bacon crackers start with a buttery cracker layered with salty bacon and sprinkled with brown sugar and black pepper. It only takes 4 ingredients to make this sweet and salty snack. 

Any appetizer that has bacon is a winner in my book! I have a few favorite appetizers to serve at your next party. Try this cheeseball, these bacon-wrapped chestnuts, and my personal favorite, jalapeno poppers with bacon!

Close view of a hand holding up a bacon cracker from a plate of stacked crackers.

Candied Bacon Crackers

I can’t even describe the magic that happens when these candied bacon crackers bake! The buttery crackers absorb the bacon drippings, and the sugar melts and caramelizes the cracker into an addicting snack. The salty crisp bacon paired with the sweet sugar are PERFECTION! It’s the BEST flavor combination! Everyone goes wild over these appetizers and the best part is how easy they are to make.

I love an easy appetizer that I can whip up last minute. You never know when you’ll have guests last minute and this is the appetizer to make when that happens. Here are some more easy appetizer recipes that don’t require a lot of ingredients. Make these little smokies, this shrimp, or our all-time favorite 5-minute dip!

Ingredients to Make Bacon Crackers

All it takes is 4 ingredients to make these sweet and savory bacon crackers! It’s such a simple appetizer and takes no time at all. Find the exact measurements in the recipe card at the end of the post.

  • Club Crackers: The perfect-sized cracker to fit the bacon slices.
  • Bacon: Choose your favorite! Use thick-cut, thin-cut, or peppered bacon. There’s no need to sprinkle with pepper if it’s already on the bacon.
  • Brown Sugar: Caramelizes and candies the bacon for a sweet and salty combination.
  • Cracked Black Pepper: A little heat and texture, I love the added pepper!

Let’s Make Bacon Crackers

This bacon crackers recipe is the easiest appetizer to whip up! In no time at all you will have a flavor-packed appetizer that will be everyone’s favorite! Bring these to your next party or game day.

  1. Preheat Oven, Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit then place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
  2. Arrange Crackers on Prepared Pan: Line the crackers in a single layer on top of the wire rack.
  3. Cut and Place Bacon Pieces on Crackers: Cut the bacon into fourths then place 1 piece on top of each cracker. Save the remaining bacon for another recipe!
  4. Sprinkle with Sugar and Pepper: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the bacon. Lastly, sprinkle cracked black pepper on top of the brown sugar.
  5. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crisp to your liking. Enjoy!
First process photo of crackers lined on a baking rack. Second process photo of the bacon placed on top of the crackers. Third process photo of the brown sugar sprinkled on the bacon. Fourth process photo of pepper sprinkled on top.

Tips and Variations

Here are my tips and variations below for making these bacon crackers. I also have a few ideas on how to make them spicy if you like added heat. You’re going to love how quick and easy they are!

  • Crackers: Any buttery cracker will work for this appetizer. I prefer using Club crackers because they are sturdy enough to withhold the bacon and sugar as they melt and seep into the cracker. I also love the perfect size that it is for the bacon!
  • Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapenos, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you want more heat. Also, the added spice levels up all the flavors. It’s DELICIOUS!
  • Freeze Bacon: Here’s a little tip for cutting the bacon. Pop it in the freezer for about 20 minutes before cutting it. It chills and hardens slightly to make the cutting easier. Save any leftover bacon for another recipe or double this recipe. The more bacon crackers the better!
  • Wrap the Crackers: Instead of placing the bacon on top, simply wrap a longer piece around the whole cracker. You may need to adjust the baking time but more bacon? Yes please!

Close view of baked bacon crackers on a baking sheet pan lined with a wire rack.

How to Store Bacon Crackers

These bacon crackers will disappear before you know it! They are so addicting and your guests will devour them. However, here’s how to store any leftovers you might have.

  • On the Counter: Place any leftover bacon crackers in an airtight container. Allow them to cool before storing them. They will keep on the counter for up to 2 days. The crackers and bacon may lose some of their crispiness, but the overall flavor will still be enjoyable. These crackers are best served at room temperature and I don’t recommend storing them in the fridge.

Close top view of bacon crackers stacked on a blue plate.

More Tasty Bacon Appetizers

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  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet.

  • Line the crackers in a single layer on top of the wire rack.

  • Cut the bacon into fourths and place 1 piece on top of each cracker. Save the remaining bacon for another recipe.

  • Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the bacon. Next, sprinkle cracked black pepper on top of the brown sugar.

  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crisp to your liking. Enjoy!

Serving: 1crackerCalories: 51kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 74mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 3IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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Mark Open Enrollment dates on your calendar

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Mark Open Enrollment dates on your calendar


Published on August 24, 2023

Key dates for Marketplace coverage 

  • November 1: Open Enrollment starts. 
  • December 15: Enroll for coverage that starts January 1. 
  • January 15: The last day to enroll; Open Enrollment for 2024 coverage ends. 

Looking for coverage for the rest of 2023? 



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How to Remove Stains From Clothes (Without Harsh Chemicals!)

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How to Remove Stains From Clothes (Without Harsh Chemicals!)


If your house is anything like mine, laundry stains are a daily fact of life.

For many of us, laundry tops the list of household jobs we’d rather not do. It’s often voted the one job we’d gladly hire someone to help with if we could. Especially with small children, stains make laundry even tougher.

Even some of my most crunchy friends will turn to conventional stain sticks and sprays to get stains out. Yes, even friends who make their own deodorant, toothpaste, and laundry soap still use conventional stain removal methods.

And who could blame them, since many natural stain removal methods don’t seem to work on tough stains?

Why Use Natural Stain Removal Methods?

When you switch to natural cleaning, you can’t just spray it all with Shout, wash it in Tide, and call it a day… so what to do?

Conventional laundry stain treatments are some of the most toxic cleaning products available. They contain harsh detergents, solvents, parabens, and a host of artificial colors and scents.

Then there’s chlorine bleach often used for white clothes that’s a major health concern. A 2010 study reported well over a quarter of a million children under the age of 5 were injured by household cleaners. Bleach was the leading source and can be lethal if ingested (most reported cases were from kids ingesting bleach, usually from a spray bottle).

Pre-Made Natural Stain Remover

Already know you want a natural stain remover, but don’t want to DIY it? Branch Basics has a non-toxic natural stain remover that works really well. You can use their cleaning concentrate and Oxygen Boost to pretreat the stained area.

Another good option is Truly Free. I’ve used their natural liquid laundry detergent for years. Truly Free has an Oxyboost stain fighter, as well as an enzyme stain remover and a laundry stain stick.

Both of these brands offer good non-toxic options if you just want something quick and all-purpose. If you want to create your own stain removers though, then read on!

I borrowed some wisdom from my grandma’s era and with the help of my professional stain creation experts (aka my children). I compiled a helpful list of effective stain treatments for various types of stains. You can keep this list handy for reference when you’re doing laundry. I’ve also included a printable version (at the bottom of this post) in case it will be helpful to you too.

How to Remove Stains From Clothes

Removing stains naturally takes a little more know-how and work than the conventional products. When used correctly, these methods can remove some of the toughest stains (and you won’t have to keep the poison control number on hand!).

TIP: Always treat stains from the back, rather than the front, to avoid rubbing the stain in more.

Natural Stain Remover Supplies

First, you’ll need the following staples on hand:

Optional, but nice:

How to Treat Different Types of Stains

Here are some of the most common stains and how to treat them naturally. Be sure to check the product care label first before proceeding.

  • Paint Stains: Soak in rubbing alcohol for 30 minutes and wash out.
  • Tea or Coffee Stains: Immediately pour boiling water over the stain until it’s gone. If it’s an old stain scrub it with a paste of borax and water and wash immediately.
  • Grass Stains: Scrub with liquid dish soap or treat with equal parts hydrogen peroxide (3%) and water.
  • Mud Stains: Let the dirt dry and brush off what you can, then scrub with a borax/water paste and clean in the washer immediately
  • Tomato-Based Stains: For ketchup and other tomato products, treat with white vinegar directly on the stain and wash immediately.
  • Nail Polish: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to immediately blot up the nail polish before it air dries. Use a cloth dipped in dishwashing liquid and warm water to dab up the stain, then rinse in cool water. If there’s still a color stain, then make a paste with equal parts cornstarch and white vinegar. Apply to the area and let sit for 20 minutes before scrubbing off with a toothbrush. Rinse with cold water and launder.
  • Ballpoint Pen Ink Stains or Marker: Soak in rubbing alcohol for 30 minutes or spray with hair spray and wash out.
  • Red Wine Stains: I use a mixture of soap, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. You can get the recipe for my red wine stain remover here (there’s also an option for upholstery).
  • Wax Stains: Do not try to clean hot wax off of fabric, as this only pushes it deeper into the fibers. Once the wax has cooled, place an ice cube over the area to harden the wax. Scrape off as much as you can with a dull knife or spoon. Dab some enzyme-based stain remover (Branch Basics or Truly Free have good options) over the area. Use a clean cloth or soft toothbrush to work in the cleaner. After 15 minutes rinse with warm water and then launder.
  • Dingy Whites, Sweat Stains, or Deodorant Stains: Soak the stain directly in a mix of 50/50 hydrogen peroxide and water for 30 minutes. Then add 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide to the wash water. For really tough yellow stains, make a paste of 3% hydrogen peroxide and baking soda and rub into the stain. Leave on for 5 minutes before laundering.
  • Other Food Stains: Treat with a mix of 50/50 hydrogen peroxide and water and soak.
  • Grease Stains and Oil Stains: For oil-based stains sprinkle the area with dry baking soda to remove any loose oil or grease and brush off. Then, soak in undiluted white vinegar for 15 minutes, rinse, and scrub with liquid dish soap before washing
  • Vomit, Urine, Poop, Egg, Gelatin, Glue, or Other Protein-Based Stains: DO NOT WASH IN WARM WATER!!!!! This will set in the smell. Soak in cool water and then wash with an added mixture of 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 cup baking soda in the washing machine.
  • Blood stains: Like other protein stains, hot water will only set the stain in. To remove blood stains rinse/soak in cold water, then apply hydrogen peroxide to the area before tossing it in the wash.

If you want an easy way to remember all of these treatments, here’s a convenient printable guide!

How to Handle Really Tough Stains

When I encounter stains that don’t respond to the methods above, I’ll use stronger products that still contain natural ingredients. My favorite is Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds, which gets an “A” from the Environmental Working Group, and is an amazing all-purpose natural cleaner. Be sure to use Sal Suds NOT castile soap, which won’t work the same.

It can be used directly on really tough stains in a pinch, though I prefer to make a natural stain spray:

Natural Stain Remover Spray

The closest non-toxic alternative I’ve found to stain removal sprays is this homemade version. It takes under two minutes to make and can be kept by the washing machine for easy use.

Prep Time2 minutes

Total Time2 minutes

Yield: 16 ounces

Author: Katie Wells

  • 1 and ¾ cups distilled water
  • ¼ cup Sal Suds (NOT castile soap)

Spray on stains before laundering to help remove even tough stains.

Other Natural Laundry Tips

On-the-go stain removal:

My homemade baby wipes can be kept in a small silicone bag and make a great pre-treat spot remover on the go.

Laundry Booster:

Add 1 tablespoon of Sal Suds to a load of laundry as a natural stain-removing booster. I’ll also add my homemade OxiClean to really dirty loads.

Here’s a printable version of the infographic above: Click to download.

What’s your best natural stain-treating trick? Please share below! My kids could put it to the test….

wellness mama stain removal guide for laundry

Here is a printable version of the infographic above: Click to download.

This handy natural stain removal reference chart provides the best natural way to treat various types of stains without chemicals.



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Efforts to Increase COVID-19 Antiviral Accessibility

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Efforts to Increase COVID-19 Antiviral Accessibility


In the battle against COVID-19, antiviral drugs have emerged as a clinical tool in preventing the progression from mild-to-moderate disease to severe illness, particularly when administered within 5 days of symptom onset. This insight highlights the crucial connection of education, preparedness, and health care in mitigating severe COVID-19-associated outcomes, including death.

Despite recommendations for antiviral use among high-risk adults to prevent severe COVID-19, its uptake remains low at ≤35% in the general adult population. A review of 110 high-risk Veterans Health Administration (VA) patients—all vaccinated and with mild-to-moderate COVID-19— revealed reasons for underuse: 20% declined the offered treatment. In contrast, 80% were not offered any treatment.

“We focused on eligible patients who truly didn’t get antiviral treatment, rather than on estimating the amount of use overall,” said coinvestigator Paul A. Monach, MD, PhD, chief of rheumatology, VA Boston Healthcare System. “The electronic search indicated that only 28% of patients received antivirals, but we found during chart review that additional patients did receive antivirals, just not in a way easily found by searching VA pharmacy records. The actual amount of use is about 50%, although that calculation isn’t in the final version of the paper, so it shouldn’t be considered peer-reviewed.”

“Limited information is available on reasons for failure to prescribe antivirals to eligible patients with COVID-19,” the study investigators wrote. “Algorithms to determine these reasons using electronic medical records (EMR) review would have to be based entirely on text data; therefore, measures to develop them would likely be prone to bias.”

For those not offered treatment, reasons included symptom duration exceeding 5 days (22.7%), potential drug interactions (5.7%), or lack of symptoms (22.7%). And nearly half (48.9%) gave no reason beyond mild symptoms. Notably, 55.8% of these patients only received follow-up calls without any treatment discussion, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address antiviral underuse.

Main Takeaways

  1. Antiviral medications are essential in preventing the progression of COVID-19 from mild-to-moderate stages to severe illness, especially when given within the first five days of symptom onset.
  2. Despite the proven efficacy of antivirals and CDC recommendations, their use remains surprisingly low, with uptake at ≤35% among the general adult population.
  3. There is a clear gap in patient management and communication, highlighted by the fact that a substantial number of patients do not receive adequate information or discussions regarding their eligibility for antiviral treatment

Improving Antiviral Uptake

“On the provider side, a few patients fewer than we expected were not offered treatment because of drug interactions with Paxlovid,” said Monach. “However, other antivirals are available, and the safety of discontinuing another drug for 5 days to take Paxlovid probably varies a lot and is safe for most drugs. Finally, about 40% of patients who didn’t receive an antiviral weren’t offered one and didn’t have a contraindication that we could find in the chart. Therefore, some providers need an education that high-risk patients with mild symptoms are exactly the target population – although it was clear from the review that most providers in emergency departments and primary care know that.”

Monarch explains how there should be primary care follow-up calls after patients have gone home, especially regarding test results because this could be a key area for improvement. Initially, these calls emphasized isolation and visiting the emergency room if symptoms worsened, advice that was apt during 2020-21. However, with the availability of antivirals, this approach is now considered outdated and misdirected. It is recommended that healthcare institutions update their guidance for staff responsible for these calls to include current treatment options, ensuring that the advice given is relevant and comprehensive.

Among the reasons for not providing treatment, delays in seeking care and potential drug interactions were noted, alongside a notable percentage of patients who were not given any explanation for the lack of treatment offered, particularly if their symptoms were considered mild. Furthermore, many of these patients did not have antiviral treatment discussed with them, pointing to a gap in patient management, and the need for improved strategies to ensure that eligible patients are informed and offered potentially life-saving antiviral treatments.

“Although the original studies were done in unvaccinated patients, it is clear from our previous work and others’ work that some patients remain at high risk for severe COVID-19 despite vaccination and boosting,” explains Monach. “Studies in high-risk patients indicate the benefit of antivirals for them as well, it’s just not clear whether the risk is reduced by 50% or more than that.”

Monarch says patients with comorbidities should be considered for antivirals. “There’s general agreement that patients who are immune-suppressed or have serious lung, heart, or kidney disease should be offered treatment. There’s also general agreement that at some point age confers high risk even in a patient without other risk factors.”

Overall, antiviral drugs are undervalued clinically in the ongoing battle of COVID-19 in preventing severe disease outcomes. While clinicians continue managing the complexity of COVID-19, they need to consider to ensure that every patient eligible for antiviral therapy is informed, offered, and supported through their treatment journey.

Reference

Monach PA, Anand ST, Fillmore NR, La J, Branch-Elliman W. Underuse of Antiviral Drugs to Prevent Progression to Severe COVID-19 — Veterans Health Administration, March–September 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. Published January 25, 2024. Accessed January 31, 2024. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7303a2



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Lobster Pasta Recipe | The Recipe Critic

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Lobster Pasta Recipe | The Recipe Critic


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

Tender, juicy pieces of lobster tossed in a creamy tomato sauce with linguine noodles. Prepare to be amazed by this restaurant-quality lobster pasta- each bite is a dream!

Calling all seafood lovers! If you love this lobster pasta, here are a few more recipes you need to add to the dinner lineup: lobster bisque, seafood lasagna, and reader-favorite lobster tail!

Top-down view of lobster pasta in a white skillet.

Amazing Lobster Linguine

This lobster pasta is comfort food at its finest. Fresh linguine, a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce, and tender lobster pieces all tossed together. What could be better than that? It’s a blend of flavors and textures that is absolutely dreamy.

This restaurant-quality lobster pasta is fancy enough for special occasions or date night, but also simple enough to make for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, even the people that aren’t big seafood lovers in your family will be a fan! Words can’t describe how tasty this dish is. You’ve got to try it for yourself! Here is everything you’ll need:

Ingredient List

I love that this recipe uses so many simple ingredients, even though it tastes like something you would get from a fancy restaurant! Exact measurements for each can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

  • Linguine: This long, thin pasta helps catch the delicious sauce and lobster pieces. Cook it al dente for a perfect bite. Also, reserve some pasta water before draining for the sauce!
  • Lobster Meat: Cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces. Use cooked lobster tails, claws, or knuckles – any part works!
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
  • Chopped Shallot: Adds a mild oniony flavor without overpowering the dish. Chop it finely so it’s evenly distributed.
  • Garlic Cloves: Because everything is better with garlic! Fresh minced garlic works best for adding flavor to every bite.
  • Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor base for the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce. Full-fat cream will give you the richest flavor, but half and half can also be used for something lighter.
  • Parmesan Cheese: So the sauce has delicious cheesy flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
  • Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the lobster pasta to taste.
  • Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water helps give the sauce a silky texture and also thins it out.
  • Fresh Basil and Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but these add extra delicious flavor!

Lobster Pasta Recipe

Grab that skillet and get ready to make a dinner that everyone will be raving about. If you really want to take things up a notch, try serving it with garlic knots or homemade breadsticks! The sauce is too good not to dip.

  1. Precook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Cook the pasta to al-dente. Before draining the pasta, save some pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and saute until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and then cook for 1 minute.
  4. Mix in Cheese and Cream: Lower the heat and slowly add in the cream and parmesan cheese. Heat through and stir until the cheese is melted.
  5. Add Seasonings and Pasta Water: Add the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasonings, and lemon zest. Add 1/2 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce. Then taste the sauce and add additional seasoning to your liking.
  6. Combine: Add the cooked lobster meat and pasta. Toss to combine with the sauce. 
  7. Serve: Top the pasta with fresh basil, parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Then serve immediately while it’s warm. Enjoy!
4-photo collage of the creamy red sauce being prepared, and linguine and lobster being added to it.

Tips and Variations

Use your imagination and what you have on hand to create this amazing creamy lobster pasta! You’re going to love how it turns out with any of these tips and variations.

  • Pasta: I love using pasta that can really soak up the sauce and hold it in its crevices. For this lobster pasta, you can use almost any pasta you like, even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Al Dente: Cook your pasta al dente. This means the pasta is tender but still chewy and holds its shape with a bit of firmness. This will allow the pasta to absorb the sauce and hold on to the flavor in every bite.
  • Lobster Substitutions: Not a fan of lobster? No problem! You can also use other protein options like chicken, bacon, or sausage.
  • Heavy Cream: You can use half and half instead of heavy cream to also cut a few calories but your sauce won’t turn out quite as rich.
  • Add-ins: Try adding a handful of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to this lobster pasta. Just stir them in when you add in the lobster. It would be delicious in this recipe!

A serving of lobster pasta in a black bowl.

Leftover Lobster Pasta

This lobster pasta is so incredible the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Heat your leftovers so you have a quick and satisfying lunch!

  • In the Refrigerator: Keep leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If it needs thinning add a splash of cream as it heats.

A bite of pasta twirled around a metal fork.

More Amazing Pasta Recipes to Try

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  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Cook the pasta to al-dente. Before draining the pasta, save some pasta water for the sauce.

  • Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and saute until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

  • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

  • Lower the heat and slowly add in the cream and parmesan cheese. Heat through and stir until the cheese is melted.

  • Add the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasonings, and lemon zest. Add 1/2 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce. Taste the sauce and add additional seasoning to your liking.

  • Add the cooked lobster meat and pasta. Toss to combine with the sauce.

  • Top the pasta with fresh basil, parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately warm. Enjoy!

Calories: 448kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 20gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 138mgSodium: 431mgPotassium: 348mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 918IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 201mgIron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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Don’t miss out: Connect with the Marketplace in 3 simple ways

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Don’t miss out: Connect with the Marketplace in 3 simple ways


Published on September 7, 2023

Open Enrollment for 2024 Marketplace health plans starts November 1. Don’t lose out on valuable health insurance information and deadline reminders this fall by connecting with the Marketplace today.

3 quick & easy ways to connect

Take a few minutes right now to stay in the loop. This way, you’ll get regular reminders and updates as Open Enrollment gets closer.

  • Sign up for email or text updates. Visit HealthCare.gov, and click “Sign up” under “Get important news & updates.”
  • Follow us on social media. Find us on Twitter and Facebook.
  • You can also get help in your community. Enter your ZIP code for a list of people and groups near you that are trained to help you apply. Some even offer help in languages other than English.
Explore HealthCare.gov to find out dates and deadlines, learn why having health insurance is important, and get enrollment tips. Get started with a quick guide.





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What Counts as a ‘Low Carb’ Diet and Is It Right for You?

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What Counts as a ‘Low Carb’ Diet and Is It Right for You?


Feb. 7, 2024 — Atkins, keto, the Zone, the paleo diet – it seems like low-carb diets have been around forever, and they’ve only grown in popularity over the years. But despite their renown, it remains unclear what exactly “low carb” really means. 

A study recently published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition analyzed over 500 articles about low-carb diets and found that, among the scientific community, there remains a real discrepancy about what “low carb” means. 

The study’s principal investigator, Taylor Wallace, PhD, CEO of Think Healthy Group and an adjunct professor of nutrition and food studies at George Mason University, said that given the sheer amount of research that has been put into studying low-carb diets, it’s striking that we don’t have a clear definition. 

The range of evaluated studies – all published between 2002 and 2022 – found that most trials defined low-carb as having 100 grams or less of carbohydrates daily. But many also had much stricter definitions, with carbs taking up only 40-60 grams per day. 

The variability, Wallace said, should underline the fact that low-carb diets might not be right for everyone. 

“There’s a lot of data that shows that low-carb diets work in cases like diabetes and weight loss,” said Wallace. “But I also think that there’s a lot that we don’t know, and we shouldn’t overstep to ‘Eat as much saturated fat as you want, it doesn’t matter as long as you’re on a low-carb diet.’ That’s a little bit out there for me.” 

The other issue Wallace pointed out was that most of the studies did not examine participants beyond the 6-month point, which doesn’t shed light on how sustainable these meal plans are in the long term. 

A systematic review and meta-analysis published by the the journal BMJ in 2021, for example, found that for people with type 2 diabetes, low-carb diets increased remission rates among those who stuck to it for 6 months. But the same review found that by 12 months, the benefits of the diet had shrunk significantly and participants’ LDL cholesterol levels had worsened. 

The first recommended daily allowance, established by the Institute of Medicine in 2002, said that both children and adults should consume a minimum of 130 grams of carbs per day for brain function and health. 

With the popularity of diets like keto and Atkins, which typically restrict carbs to less than the recommended daily allowance, focusing on long-term adherence is key to understanding overall health outcomes beyond the number of pounds lost on the scale. 

“We just have to be mindful that we don’t have the literature to say what could potentially be the long-term outcomes of adhering to a carbohydrate diet that’s less than this 130 grams per day,” said Katrina Hartog, a registered dietitian-nutritionist at New York University. 

It’s also important to keep safety concerns in mind, even if you do fall into the category of someone who could benefit from a low-carb diet, Hartog said. Nutritional deficiencies, disordered eating habits, decreases in lean muscle mass – these should all be essential parts of low-carb research. And these events can only be properly evaluated past the 6-month mark. 

Wallace said that his study’s findings should prompt further research. In particular, he’d like to see a systematic review to really synthesize the outcome evidence of the many studies we already have.

“​​If everybody’s calling ‘low carb’ something different, then the research is never going to give us an answer because all the studies are different,” said Wallace. “If we’re going to move forward in this field, we have to decide what ‘low-carb’ is.” 



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Contaminated Hospital Beds Increase Risk of Healthcare-Associated Infections

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Contaminated Hospital Beds Increase Risk of Healthcare-Associated Infections


In a cohort study conducted by Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, researchers investigated if staying in a hospital bed previously used by a patient with a healthcare-associated infection (HAI) raised the likelihood of acquiring a hospital-onset HAI. The study found that patients occupying a hospital bed or room after someone with Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) had a higher risk of developing a hospital-onset C diff infection (HO-CDI). Enhancing cleaning and disinfection practices in healthcare settings could lower the transmission of C diff within hospitals.

Among 25,032 hospital visits involving 18,860 distinct patients, we detected 237 instances of HO-CDI. The association between exposure to a contaminated bed and the development of HO-CDI was evident in both unadjusted (odds ratio (OR), 1.8; 95%) (confidence interval (CI), 1.4–2.31) and adjusted analyses (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2–2.0). A significant portion of this association was attributed to the combined effects of mediation by and interaction with a contaminated hospital room.

“The odds of developing HO-CDI with exposure to a contaminated bed minimally increased in sensitivity analyses in which we decreased the amount of time a bed was considered contaminated, thus decreasing the time between the prior occupant’s positive C diff test and the subsequent occupant’s diagnosis of HO-CDI,” according to investigators. “The sustained association between contaminated bed and HO-CDI speaks to the robustness of C diff spores and their ability to survive on environmental surfaces for an extended period.”

Hospital bed movements within 2 academic medical centers were tracked from April 2018 to August 2019 using a real-time location system. Researchers extracted patient demographics, clinical details, and C diff PCR test results from electronic health records. A patient was considered exposed to a “contaminated” bed or room if they occupied a bed or room within 7 days before their diagnosis of HO-CDI, which previously hosted a patient with C diff infection within the last 90 days. The study utilized multivariable logistic regression to assess the association between exposure to contaminated beds and the incidence of HO-CDI, adjusting for the length of hospital stay and the need for intensive care, and analyzing the impact of room contamination.

3 Key Takeaways

  1. The study has revealed a significant association between occupying a hospital bed previously used by a patient with a CDI and an increased risk of developing a HO-CDI.
  2. The research findings emphasize the necessity for healthcare facilities to adopt and rigorously implement enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, specifically targeting the eradication of C diff spores from hospital beds and the surrounding environment.
  3. The study highlights the direct link between bed contamination and the risk of HO-CDI and points to the value of utilizing real-time monitoring systems in tracking hospital bed usage and contamination.

“Our findings suggest that there may be transmission of C diff from the hospital bed to a patient, even up to 90 days after the original patient was diagnosed with C diff further studies involving genomic sequencing could more directly link possible bed contamination and developing HO-CDI. Human-factor analyses could also elaborate on the interactions that healthcare personnel have with the hospital room, bed, and other surfaces to determine which parts of the healthcare environment contribute the most to the transmission of HO-CDI,” the investigators wrote. “New technologies or cleaning and disinfection methods that can better eradicate C diff spores from a hospital bed and/or the surrounding healthcare environment may lead to significant reductions in healthcare transmission of C diff and decrease rates of HO-CDI.”

The study identifies several limitations, including biases from specific hospital units and omitted beds, which do not significantly impact the overall findings. The use of PCR for C diff testing may overestimate bed contamination. Additionally, not considering clinical severity or asymptomatic cases might lower the estimated transmission risk. However, these limitations notwithstanding, the study underscores a nuanced relationship between bed contamination and HO-CDI risk, stressing the importance of improved infection control measures across both single and multi-bed hospital settings to mitigate C diff spread.

Overall, this study highlights insights into the transmission patterns of C diff within hospital settings and underscores the necessity for enhanced protocols for cleaning and disinfecting hospital beds, and the broader healthcare environment. Furthermore, the real-time monitoring of hospital beds could significantly contribute to investigating outbreaks of HO-CDI by uncovering links, such as shared beds among patients that might be overlooked by conventional epidemiological approaches.

Reference

Witt LS, Howard-Anderson J, Prakash-Asrani R, Overton E, Jacob JT. The role of the hospital bed in hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile: A retrospective study with mediation analysis. Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology. Published December 13, 2024. Accessed February 6, 2024. doi:10.1017/ice.2023.254



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Cherry Cheesecake Bars (Easy to Make!)

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Cherry Cheesecake Bars (Easy to Make!)


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These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion! Creamy cheesecake sits atop a homemade graham cracker crust, and is finished off with a generous helping of cherries.

Love cheesecake but not the hassle of making it from scratch? Try these recipes instead! Mini cheesecakes, lemon cheesecake bars, or sopapilla cheesecake bars!

Sliced cheesecake bars topped with cherry pie filling on a white serving platter.

Easy Cherry Cheesecake Bars

I love homemade cheesecake. But sometimes I don’t want to go through the effort of making a regular-sized cheesecake and worrying about water baths, cracking, and all those considerations that come along with traditional cheesecake. These cherry cheesecake bars are super simple to make and are always a crowd pleaser!

The first step in this recipe is to make the crust. You’ll need graham cracker crumbs, butter and sugar which get pressed into the bottom of a square pan, then baked until crisp. While the crust is baking, I prepare the filling. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for both:

Ingredient List

The filling is a simple combination of cream cheese, vanilla extract, eggs, sugar and heavy cream. If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, sour cream will also work. The cheesecake bars will need to chill for at least 2 hours, so plan accordingly! You can actually prepare the bars up to 3 days before you plan to serve them, then simply slice and top with cherries right before serving.

Crust:

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Form the base of the crust.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and helps bind the crumbs together once baked.
  • Salted Butter: Adds moisture, richness, and also keeps the crust in place. Unsalted butter will also work if that’s all you have on hand. You can add a pinch of salt to the crust mixture separately.

Cheesecake Filling/ Topping:

  • Cream Cheese: The star ingredient! This creates the classic rich and creamy cheesecake texture.
  • Sugar: Sweetens up the filling.
  • Sour Cream: Adds a touch of tang and keeps the filling moist.
  • Heavy Cream: Enhances richness and also prevents cracks in the baked cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure for a perfect slice!
  • Vanilla Extract: Infuses the filling with a hint of sweet, aromatic flavor.
  • Cherry Pie Filling: For the topping!

Other Topping Flavors

What I love about this recipe is that you really can change it up by using a different flavor of pie filling, like apple or blueberry, or even just using sliced fresh fruit instead of pie filling.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Bars

I actually think the trickiest part about this cheesecake bar recipe is cutting the bars into neat squares! The bars are easiest to cut straight from the fridge and when you use a hot knife. (See the tips below!) This recipe makes about 9 larger squares or 12 smaller squares.

  1. Preheat Oven, Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 1 or 2-inch overhang on either side of the pan, and spray with pan spray.
  2. Graham Cracker Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter together until it resembles wet sand. 
  3. Add to Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool while you prepare the filling for the cherry cheesecake bars.

Cheesecake 

  1. Beat Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese to a large bowl and beat with a hand mixer or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer and beat until it is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
  2. Mix In Remaining Ingredients: Add the sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla and beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour the batter over the cooled crust.
  3. Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 28-30 minutes, or until the center is set. 
  4. Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  5. Cut: Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 9 or 12 squares, depending on your preference.
  6. Add Topping: Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling over each cheesecake bar and serve.
4-photo collage of the crust being prepared and then topped with the cheesecake filling.

Tips for Making Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Cherry cheesecake bars are super simple to make, but here are a few more tips for success!

  • Use Full-Fat Ingredients: Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream! Decadent cheesecake bars isn’t the time to skimp on the fat.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Room-temperature ingredients will blend more smoothly, so set your cream cheese, sour cream, cream, and eggs on the counter for an hour or two before you’re ready to start baking.
  • Making Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, blend 12 whole graham crackers in the food processor or blender until finely ground.
  • Don’t Over-bake the Bars! The center of the cheesecake bars should have just the slightest wobble to it, like jello after it has been set.
  • Cutting Into Squares: Use a hot knife to cut your cherry cheesecake bars for the cleanest cut. Run a chef’s knife under very hot water, dry with a clean kitchen towel, and then slice. Repeat these steps between each cut for the cleanest slices.

Top-down view of sliced cherry cheesecake bars.

Storing Leftovers / Freezing

Store leftover cherry cheesecake bars in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep them in an airtight container, or cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap.

These cherry cheesecake bars can also be made in advance and frozen! Remove the chilled bars from the pan and slice them into pieces. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 2 hours, until the bars are frozen solid. Transfer them to an airtight container, laying a piece of parchment between them if you are going to stack them. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in one layer in the fridge overnight.

The cherry pie filling being added to a cheesecake bar.

More Easy Recipes for Cheesecake Lovers

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  • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 1 or 2-inch overhang on either side of the pan, and spray with pan spray.

  • In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter together until it resembles wet sand.

  • Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool while you prepare the filling.

Cheesecake

  • Add the cream cheese to a large bowl and beat with a hand mixer or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer and beat until it is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

  • Add the sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla and beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour the batter over the cooled crust.

  • Return the pan to the oven and bake for 28-30 minutes, or until the center is set.

  • Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

  • Once chilled, carefully remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut the cheesecake into 9 or 12 squares, depending on your preference.

  • Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling over each bar and serve.

Originally posted February 7, 2018
Updated on February 7, 2024

Calories: 351kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 5gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 245mgPotassium: 146mgFiber: 1gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 853IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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