HEALTH

OAKLAND, Calif. — Scientists at Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute’s Nutrition and Metabolism Center have developed a low-calorie, fruit-based high-fiber vitamin and mineral nutrition bar called the CHORI-bar that improves biological indicators — the bar increased HDL cholesterol and glutathione but lowered homocysteine — linked to the risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and associated decline in antioxidant defenses, the group reported Wednesday.

CHICAGO — Motherhood influences the way women shop, according to Mintel research.

The research firm found that being a mother influences shopping habits as an increased emphasis is put on the safety, value and nutrition of everyday purchases:

• More than half of moms who only have children younger than 6 years old (51%) said they question how safe things are for their children to eat, use and wear;

• 40% said think about the long-term impact products have on their children;

NORWELL, Mass. — Carex Health Brands is launching an all-in-one medication organizer and pill splitter under its Apex brand.

Apex's medication station features the ultra pill splitter with blade guard safety, two removable seven-day medication organizers with Bubble-Lok technology and a nonslip base that holds everything together. All parts are removable for travel, filling or cleaning.

Apex's all-in-one medication organizer and pill splitter carries a suggested retail price of $9.99.

SAN FRANCISCO — McKesson on Monday announced that thousands of independent pharmacy owners from across the nation will convene at the McKesson IdeaShare 2012 Conference at the Venetian Resort Hotel in Las Vegas from June 24 to 28.

WEST ORANGE, N.J. — Everett Labs on Monday announced the launch of Pregnitude, a dietary supplement that helps support ovulation function and menstrual cycle regularity for women who are interested in conceiving.

LONG BEACH, Calif. — TJL Enterprises on Wednesday introduced Tummy Calm, a natural gas relief remedy for infants and children. The homeopathic remedy provides relief of stomach aches and the accompanying gas, bloating and cramping, the company said.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores announced on Wednesday that it has submitted comments to the U.S. House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health urging that retail pharmacies remain exempt from the Medicare durable medical equipment competitive bidding program. The subcommittee held a hearing regarding the program on Wednesday.

COLD SPRING HARBOR, N.Y. — Cirrus Healthcare on Wednesday launched a SpongeBob SquarePants-licensed line of earplugs designed to protect children when swimming, showering and studying, and during loud events.

The SpongeBob SquarePants ultra soft earplugs employs the same technology as BioEars, a soft silicone earplug that uses ActivAloe, a patented aloe vera application.

The SpongeBob SquarePants ultra soft earplugs will be merchandised in pairs of three in a waterproof carry case.