School will be starting back up soon, and a University of Illinois Extension nutrition expert is sending some annual reminders for this time of the year. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator for Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains whether it is to get up-to-date on vaccines, sports physicals, or just a general check-up, it's important to get your student a physical to ensure they are healthy. 

Mellendorf also extends that recommendation to adults. She says it's important to be aware of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall wellness and notes that men are often less likely to seek care. 

While the extension does not employ medical professionals, they do have resources on their website related to chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

We'll have more from Mellendorf in the weeks ahead, leading up to the first day of school on healthy lunches for kids, school meal reminders and much more. 

Check out all of the Extension’s health and nutrition resources at extension.illinois.edu/dmp.