Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition-Darlington County

10/23/2026

Ever wonder why blood sugar can rise in the early morning—even before breakfast? 🌅

Our team’s latest blog post explains the dawn phenomenon, what may be behind it, and why it’s worth understanding. Take a look and share it with someone who might find it helpful!

Read more 🔗https://blogs.clemson.edu/ruralhealth/the-dawn-phenomenon/

The Dawn Phenomenon Posted on October 9, 2026October 9, 2026 by Melissa Bales The best way to know if you’re experiencing morning high blood glucose is by testing your blood sugar upon waking and before consuming foods. Image Credit: Julianna Lyle Introduction Some people living with diabetes may ...

10/22/2026

Happy Wednesday! We’re back with this week’s seasonal produce feature: sweet potatoes! Did you know sweet potatoes and yams are not the same? Sweet potatoes come from the morning glory family and are typically harvested in South Carolina this time of year. On the other hand, yams are from the lily family and are not typically grown in South Carolina. Check out the articles below to learn more, and let us know in the comments your favorite ways to enjoy sweet potatoes.

https://hgic.clemson.edu/sweet-potatoes/

https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/sweet-potato-basics/

10/20/2026

Meaningful connections with family, friends, coworkers, and community can support our emotional well-being, reduce stress, and contribute to better overall health.

Read “The Science of Connection: Why Relationships Matter for Your Health” on the RHN Blog to learn how relationships affect the mind and body—and why connection is an important part of a healthy life.❤️

🔗https://blogs.clemson.edu/ruralhealth/the-science-of-connection-why-relationships-matter-for-your-health/

10/19/2026

Biking and walking to school are great ways for kids to be physically active. 🚲 🚶🏾 Learn how communities can make it easier for people to walk, bike, roll, or take transit to help increase physical activity.

10/15/2026

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The Upstate is one of the few places in South Carolina with the right climate and soil conditions to grow productive apples trees. While the actual trees...

10/12/2026

Did you know that after menopause, carrying extra weight increases your risk of breast cancer?
Regular physical activity + maintaining a healthy weight = reduced risk of breast cancer. Small daily choices can make a big difference. Learn more:

10/10/2026

On this World Mental Health Day,💚 remember that moving your body can help protect your mind! Regular physical activity is a powerful way to reduce stress, lower anxiety, and improve your mood. Whether it’s a brisk walk or a quick dance break, every minute of movement helps boost your focus and long-term brain health.
🔗https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity/features/boost-brain-health.html

10/10/2026

10/09/2026

Follow along at Lamar Piggly Wiggly for tips on enjoying seasonal produce! 🍇

Muscadine Grapes

Happy Wednesday! Today kicks off our first seasonal produce feature in collaboration with Clemson University Healthy Options Program!

You know summer is fading away when muscadine grapes hit the shelves! Did you know the skin of muscadines contains Resveratrol, a polyphenol that can help lower cholesterol levels? Now that fall is officially here, be sure to enjoy this summer staple while it’s still here.

Check out the articles below to learn more about muscadines and other seasonal fruits to enjoy.

https://hgic.clemson.edu/south-carolina-apples/

https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/using-storing-apples/