Many choose juice as a healthier alternative to soda but how much healthier is it? Take a peek at these two labels and see what you think:

These are nutrition labels from common beverages you can find in the store. One is a 12 oz orange juice and the other is a 12 oz soda. One has a few more calories while the other has a little more sugar. Which is which? Which one is a better choice?

Neither of these are healthy choices. You probably figured out that the one on the left is the juice and the one on the right is the soda. They are both loaded with sugars and will spike your blood sugar and insulin resulting in increased inflammation in your body that will contribute to a variety of chronic diseases.

What about vitamin C?

But what about the vitamin C in orange juice? When you consume vitamin C with a high amount of sugar, they compete to get inside your cells, so the sugar essentially wipes out the benefit of the vitamin C. Orange juice is not a good source of vitamin C just because it says so on the label.

Forget the juice or the pop. Choose water. And if you want a treat that provides a little nutritional benefit, eat an orange.

The first thought that comes to mind with Halloween is not usually health. It's more likely to be candy and other treats. As Halloween ushers in the holiday season, now is the time to plan ahead and prepare to avoid the onslaught of sweets and resulting hit to your health.

Here are a few tips to enjoy Halloween in a healthier way.

1. Celebrate apples - it's apple season and you can load up on local apples at a great price. Kids love bobbing or trying hanging apples (see left photo).

For more of a treat, make some homemade applesauce (without sweetener) or add a little dark chocolate or nut butter to some apple slices.

2. Halloween fun - who said you have to pass out candy? Find inexpensive holiday party favors that kids can enjoy instead.

3. Get creative - if you are throwing a party, make fresh fruit and vegetables look fun or spooky. There are all kinds of easy ideas you can find online. Shape cut veggies like a skeleton or make carrots look like a pumpkin on a plate.

4. Eat pumpkin and don't toss the seeds - pumpkin makes a delicious treat with some seasoning, a little cream, and just a touch of sweetness. Skip the shell to minimize the sugar. And roast up those pumpkin seeds for a snack.

5. Go nuts - nuts are an easy snack that you can roast yourself or buy ready to go. Just avoid the ones coated in sugar.

Use these tips and make your Halloween a healthier one for you and your family this year!

For years, acetaminophen or Tylenol have been promoted as a safe alternative to other pain medications during pregnancy. However, a new analysis of 25 years of research has confirmed a higher risk of fetal development problems when acetaminophen is used during pregnancy.

The study published in Nature Reviews Endocrinology, noted a link between acetaminophen use and an increase in genital malformations, ADHD, autism, hyperactivity, behavioral difficulties and reduction in IQ. Higher doses of acetaminophen were associated with higher rates of these problems.

Acetaminophen is also known as paracetamol and can be found hundreds of products including  DayQuil and Benadryl. 

The researchers are calling on the FDA to update guidance on the use of acetaminophen in pregnancy to urge more caution and reduce the potential risk to the developing fetus.

Minimizing the use of medication during pregnancy is always important. The researchers noted 80% of women take at least one prescription or over-the-counter medicine during pregnancy with acetaminophen being most common.

The body goes through significant changes during pregnancy and musculoskeletal issues are common. When dealing with painful musculoskeletal issues, consider including safe drug-free options like chiropractic care in your plan. Adjusting and soft tissue work can help provide relief without the risks associated with medication. Improved musculoskeletal function also helps make pregnancy and delivery easier for mom and baby. Simple posture changes, stretches, and other changes can often help as well. Set a goal to start your baby off drug free for a better chance at a healthy life.