Novant Health Today's Pediatrics

09/09/2026

🍯 Honey, Agave or Maple Syrup… Oh My! 😋

“Natural” doesn’t always mean healthier! 👀 Honey, agave, and maple syrup are still added sugars.

For little ones, keep sweeteners to a minimum and let those natural fruits 🍓🍌 do the sweet talking! 💛

Small choices can make a big difference! 🌟



https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/are-other-natural-sweeteners-better-than-sugar?fbclid=IwY2xjawUON7JwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWlWdVVEV1FWQUNFNWp2bWNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeIfv8m6bwzw7KSssUo5rBJ9AfNTFe85uIUkxBHbeZGSW-EV-OgRFQ8JZoUNQ_aem_iLR47N756Okef95nSiOMQQ

“Natural” sweeteners seem healthier, but your body processes them almost the same as table sugar. Here’s what to know.

09/02/2026

🎒📚 School is back—and so are the germs! 🦠

Help keep your little ones healthy by making good handwashing a daily habit. 🧼🫧 A simple 20-second scrub can help prevent germs from spreading at school and bringing illness home. 💙

Healthy hands = healthy kids! 👏😊

08/24/2026

💧✨ Is Your Water Doing TOO Much? 👀

You’ve probably seen them all over your feed—“water recipes” packed with electrolytes, powders, juices, supplements and more. 🥤💦

makes it look like the more you add to your water, the healthier it must be. 🤔

But here’s the truth: your body doesn’t need all those extras to stay hydrated. 💧

For most people, plain water is all you need! And while electrolytes can be helpful in certain situations—like intense exercise, heavy sweating or illness—more isn’t always better. ⚡️

✨ Keep it simple. Drink water. Listen to your body. And don’t let social media convince you that hydration has to be complicated!



https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/the-truth-about-flavored-waters-what-every-consumer-should-know?fbclid=IwY2xjawT1NK5wZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWVrRXcwWGJsSFJaTFo3aEdzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEewZD8OM4xUl0_7lyl7YWum3PU1TVlHwCakNdovzWcFsxa7PUvVC5y7KM2x6w_aem_zADqYx_vZZCe-y10S_whlw

“Loaded” water is trending — but does it actually improve your health? Learn the risks, and what a doctor recommends instead.

08/19/2026

🌟 VACCINES: WHAT EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW! 💉👧🧒

Confused about childhood vaccines or wondering what your child really needs? You’re not alone! ❤️

From vaccine schedules to common questions and concerns, a pediatrician shares expert advice to help parents feel informed and confident about keeping their little ones protected. 🩺✨

🛡️ Learn what vaccines protect against
📅 Understand when they’re recommended
💬 Get answers to common parent questions
❤️ Help keep your child—and your community—healthy!

Knowledge is one of the best ways to protect your child. 🌈👶 Swipe through and get the facts from a children’s health expert!

A pediatrician answers parents’ questions about vaccine safety, timing and the latest changes to childhood vaccine recommendations.

08/14/2026

👣💗 Baby’s Kicks: What’s Normal & When to Call Your Doctor 🤰✨

From those first little flutters to the stronger kicks you feel later in pregnancy, your baby’s movements are one of the most memorable parts of becoming a parent. 👶💕

But what happens when your baby’s movements seem to slow down, especially during the third trimester? Should you wait and see, or is it time to call your doctor? 📞

Dr. Meredith Mitchell explains what’s normal, what to watch for, and when a change in your baby’s movement deserves a call to your healthcare provider. 🩺💗

👉 Trust your instincts. If something feels different, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.



https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/what-to-do-if-your-baby-isnt-moving-in-the-third-trimester?fbclid=IwY2xjawTr63ZwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAGJyaWQRMW5DTlpYWmVrUVQ5Q2FOOXZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEes6jAjeZ3CW8Btc-kMmsJHUhY3F4PCnsnRyikIz8TDjYtKKOwb2eVrTueDAM_aem_HKJl3zeePf-gRESKoF7CDg

Worried about your baby’s movement in the third trimester? Here’s what you need to know and when to take action.

08/06/2026

🎒 Back-to-school season is here! 🍎✏️

A new school year means new opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed! 🌟 Make sure your child starts the year healthy and ready for the classroom.

🩺 Need a back-to-school or sports physical? We've got you covered! Our team is here to help keep your child healthy all year long. ❤️

📞 Call us today to schedule an appointment. We can't wait to take care of your family! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦💙

08/05/2026

🌸 Period Products Have Changed... Have You? 👀🩷
From period underwear to menstrual discs, there are more options than ever! 🩸✨ Discover what's new, what actually works, and what you can probably skip. Find the product that fits your body, your lifestyle, and your comfort. 💕

There used to be three options for period care: pads, panty liners or tampons. But in recent years, the period aisle has exploded with options, including menstrual disc and cups. An expert breaks down the choices and shares the products you should always avoid.

08/01/2026

💚✨ Before you spend money on the latest wellness trend, read this! ✨💚

From trendy cleanses to the newest protein products, it can be hard to know what's truly worth it. 🤔💪

Our experts break down what to skip 🚫, what's backed by science ✅, and what really supports your health for the long term. Small, sustainable habits often have the biggest impact!

Take a look before you buy—you (and your wallet) may thank you! 🌿💙



https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/are-your-healthy-habits-actually-a-waste-of-money?fbclid=IwY2xjawTZk3pwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMW1tcWY2QnJ1Z2ozaXA4MEtzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeDb840JXBW2wHz5nZ1L4uvuvFo6apB9WcH7mrm-UvIlJq2lu5o6atuj7YQ0o_aem_JAVW0C27Ol37bLA0x-agRA

A practical guide to avoiding costly wellness fads by choosing evidence-based, affordable habits.

07/24/2026

Trying to keep things cool in the kitchen during this summer heat?
When temperatures peak, the last thing anyone wants is to turn on the oven. The good news? Summer is the season for fresh food and easy dishes.

Trying to keep things cool in the kitchen during this summer heat?

When temperatures peak, the last thing anyone wants is to turn on the oven. The good news? Summer is the season for fresh food and easy dishes.

🥗 Lean into no-cook meals
Think salads that go beyond lettuce like grain bowls or fresh coleslaw. Add protein like pre-cooked chicken, chickpeas or tuna for something more filling.

🍉 Water-rich fruits are your MVP
Watermelon, berries, peaches and cucumbers are in season and help you stay hydrated. Keep them pre-cut in the fridge for easy snacking or toss them into salads for a sweet twist.

🥪 Upgrade your sandwiches and wraps
Swap out hot meals for wraps, pita pockets or open-face sandwiches. Layer in crisp veggies, hummus, avocado or cold cuts for something quick that doesn’t require heat.

🧺 Make it snack plate
Who doesn’t love charcuterie? A board full of fresh fruit, cheeses, nuts, crackers, olives and dips. It’s low effort, customizable and perfect when it’s too hot to cook.

07/10/2026

💪 Dad, Taking Care of Yourself Is Taking Care of Your Family 💙

https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/how-healthy-living-and-check-ups-can-keep-dad-around-as-long-as-possible?fbclid=IwY2xjawS90fZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFOS2pJdnI5THA1cUxUUVNhc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkWsulKPlDZ8Arscf_lfMeDXV7cthvED9mvmcmPo8sLL8ArLbp30nQCE9q3Q_aem_oYofwW7r7vvXK87vUPBBxw

Ask any primary care doctor and they’ll agree: Men are less likely to make annual doctor visits than women.