Kristin Bogdonas
Host, "Wellness Wake Up Call"Kristin Bogdonas began employment with University of Illinois Extension in August 2013 and serves Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark counties in her role as nutrition & wellness educator. Bogdonas provides research-based programs and resources to diverse audiences via experiential, interactive programming as well as web-based platforms and social media outlets. She strives to inspire healthy lifestyles in others so people can live their best lives.
She is focused on chronic disease prevention and management, food preservation, food safety, and fostering partnerships to create a culture of wellness where people live, learn, work, and play. She also mentors students and provides hands-on opportunities in community nutrition education.
Bogdonas earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University with a concentration in nutrition and dietetics. She then went on to complete her Master of Public Health degree from Southern Illinois University. She has certifications to teach Navigating Difference, Trauma Informed Care, Fit & Strong, and ServSafe for certified food protection managers.
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Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension. Not only is it Healthy Lung Month, but it is also the unofficial start of cold and flu season. As school is back in session and the colder months approach, upper respiratory infections (URI’s), become more common.
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Did you know, we spend about 90% of our time indoors? It’s imperative to take steps to improve the indoor air you breathe. The most vulnerable to poor air quality are children, older adults, and people with health conditions like asthma and heart disease.
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Did you know Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States?
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Over 28 million people in the U.S. are living with asthma, a chronic lung condition that makes breathing difficult due to inflammation and tightening around the airways. Symptoms may include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
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Aging is a natural part of life, and with it comes changes in how our bodies function, including our digestive system. While often overlooked, age-related changes in digestion can impact our health and quality of life.
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Healthy Aging Month: Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
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As we age, our bodies absorb and process nutrients differently, and certain vitamin and mineral needs increase. While a balanced diet is the best source of nutrients, some older adults may benefit from supplements to fill nutritional gaps—especially if they have dietary restrictions, chronic conditions, or limited sun exposure.
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As students are gearing up for a busy and active athletic season, it is more important than ever that they focus on good nutrition. A balanced diet supports physical performance, recovery, academic achievement, and overall health, all key components for healthy student-athletes.
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As a new school year begins, help the children in your life succeed by fueling them with nutritious, brain-boosting foods. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy provides essential nutrients that support learning, memory, and overall well-being.