5 ways your new home can be detrimental to your health

So you have found the right housing agency like Movoto.com and have settled on a house you like. Everything looks pleasant to the naked eye. You spend a lot of time at home, and it should not be a reason you or your loved ones fall ill. Before you sign that contract, do your research and have an inspector check for some of these hazards.

Presence of Pests

Not only are pests unsightly, but they can also be bad for your health. If you are sure you still want the house, you can request pest control to eradicate some of these pests:

a)    Wasps – They are a menace, particularly during summer. I am sure you would like to enjoy your sweet drinks or a picnic outside without worrying if you might be stung by a wasp. While the sting is generally harmless, some people are allergic, and a bite can make them experience anaphylactic shock. Be sure to inspect the premises for any nests.

b)    Rats – They are not only pesky but also unsightly and unsavory. They like to nest in foundations, under cupboards and floorboards, and in sheds, among other places. They spread diseases through their saliva and urine. Fleas on mice can also spread diseases. Owning a cat can help you control this particular pest.

c)    Ticks – These arachnids are small and parasitic, and you can find them in wooded areas or fields. They survive by burrowing into the warm flesh of humans and animals like your four-legged pets. They secret toxins into the blood of the host. In humans, they are responsible for Lyme disease, tularemia, and tick-borne relapsing fever, among other conditions. They can also lead to paralysis for your pets.

d)    Spiders – Some poisonous spiders are indigenous to some areas. They can be found inside the homes or in the yard. If you decide to live in such an area, stay on high alert and spray pesticides to keep them out of your home

e)    Cockroaches, ants, and termites –These pests are tiny but annoying. Cockroaches leave feces, saliva, and parts of their bodies that can trigger asthma and allergic reactions. Ants and termites will make nests and tunnels in the wood which can structurally compromise your house if not noted in time.

Presence of Asbestos

Asbestos poisoning is a genuine concern. Breathing in the fibers can cause them to get lodged in your lungs and aggravate the lung tissue. It also weakens respiratory function and health. The worst part about these asbestos fibers is that they are undetectable by the human eye. You should be particularly wary if your house was constructed before the 1980s as it was used in drywall manufacturing. It was also used in the plumbing fixtures, vinyl floor tiles, attic insulation, boiler, and fireplace insulation, among other places. It is carcinogenic. Prolonged exposure can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. An inspector will determine if the house has asbestos and advice you accordingly.

Presence or Susceptibility to Mold
 
Mold accumulates in damp, poorly ventilated buildings. Your house may not have mold now, but you may be living in an area with a propensity for it. Such regions include cold and warm climatic zones. Dampness occurs in houses that lack proper ventilation and insulation and that are overcrowded. Inhaling mold spores and fragments can lead to inflamed airways, wheezing, nasal congestion, coughing, throat irritation, and chest tightness. Research cleaning methods that deter mold growth, such as using bleach and keep your house properly ventilated.

Lead paint

Lead paint was mainly used in homes built before the 1970s. Lead paint in itself is not harmful. Chipping in lead paint is the problem. The lead chippings are especially toxic to pets and children when ingested and can lead to lead poisoning. Lead can get into drinking water when corrosion of plumbing containing lead occurs. This can be exacerbated by water, which has high acidity and low mineral content. Because lead can bioaccumulate in the body, the EPA has set its maximum contaminant level in drinking water at zero.

Proximity to industrial parks and companies

Find out if your home is in the high, intermediate, or control exposure zone to industrial parks. The smoke and chemicals released as waste by industries can contribute to acute respiratory diseases, asthma, conjunctivitis, and dermatitis. Research shows that cancers such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are higher in neighborhoods near manufacturing plants and refineries, especially those producing benzene. Industries that produce benzene include coal and petroleum industries and those that manufacture plastics, pesticides, and detergents.

A good property inspector will be able to spot some of these things. Your research will uncover the area’s proneness to the rest. Take care of what you can and be well prepared or duly warned for the rest before making that purchase.

This is a guest blog entry.

Dental Bonding: A Perfect and Immediate Cosmetic Dental Treatment

Did you ever wonder which is the most simple and quick way of restoring chipped teeth, rectifying misshapen teeth, or beautifying stained teeth?

If yes, then you’ve come to the right place! We have precisely answered your question in this article by covering some vital information about the dental bonding procedure.

Dental bonding or tooth bonding treatment is an immensely simple, fast, and effective treatment option for cosmetic dental issues, such as discoloration, decaying, chipping, and more. Decayed teeth, cracked teeth, misaligned teeth, and many other imperfections can be removed with the help of this cosmetic dental procedure. Dental bonding is also used for filling extra or large spaces between the two teeth.

Misshapen and crooked teeth, when treated with dental bonding, can get a uniform appearance. Thus, teeth bonding enables people to live with straighter and enhanced looking teeth. Dental bonding can be used for repairing, changing the shape, and improving the appearance of a single tooth as well as multiple teeth.

The Procedure of Dental Bonding is…

The dental bonding procedure can be considered as the simplest amongst the various treatment procedures followed in cosmetic dentistry. It involves applying the composite resin bonding material to the affected tooth/teeth. Composite resin is a dental restorative material that is made of different components and resembles the putty.

The dentist chooses the shade of resin suitable for you according to the color of your natural teeth. If you wish to make your teeth look brighter, you can undergo teeth whitening treatment before undergoing dental bonding treatment. Then, the dentist will choose the resin shade that matches the new color of your natural teeth.

First of all, the dentist will roughen the surface of the tooth. Next, the coating in the form of a conditioning liquid is applied to the tooth. This liquid helps the resin to stick to the tooth. Once the preparation is complete, the dentist applies the composite resin to the tooth and gives it the desired shape as per your specific objectives behind undergoing this treatment.

Then, the light is focused on the resin material to harden it. In the end, the dentist trims and polishes the hardened composite resin to achieve the best results. As the results can be noticed immediately, patients can share their feedback or concerns regarding the outcome on the day of treatment itself.

Unlike many other dental treatments, this treatment does not require the use of anesthesia. However, in the case of patients that are suffering from tooth decay, anesthesia might be used. The dental bonding treatment procedure is completed in a single appointment as it does not take more than an hour. So, you don’t need to schedule multiple appointments for visiting the dental clinic.

Dental Bonding Lasts for…

The dental bonding, i.e., the composite resin bonding material applied on a tooth lasts for around 3 to 8 years depending on various factors. The location of the tooth, habits of the patients in reference to eating, chewing, smoking, and drinking, and maintenance of oral hygiene are some of the factors that affect the lifespan of the bonding. Drinking excessive beverages, especially those that can cause stains on teeth, such as coffee, tea, and wine, should be avoided.

However, over time, dental bonding can get stained and even chipped. Therefore, you need to practice good oral habits and steer clear of certain food items. When the bonding on your tooth starts chipping, you should consult the dentist for getting it repaired or replaced.

People prefer Dental Bonding because…

The dental bonding treatment is preferred in several situations due to its multiple benefits, including but not limited to safety, time-saving, and effectiveness. No risks or harmful effects in terms of negative impact on teeth are associated with this treatment procedure.

As the composite resin functions and appears just like the natural tooth, you can get the smile that looks completely natural. Patients who opt for the dental bonding treatment due to uneven teeth, overlapping in teeth, significant gaps between teeth, and other cosmetic imperfections can revamp their smile easily.

Conclusion

With the treatment of dental bonding, you can have perfect looking teeth. Fractured or irregularly shaped teeth can lower your self-esteem, thereby making you feel conscious while interacting with people. Get your self-esteem and happiness back with the dental bonding cosmetic dental treatment.

This is a guest blog entry.

4 Ways To Reduce Your Anxiety At An Emergency Dentist

We all know that going to the dentist, while necessary, can be a nerve-wracking experience. The sensation of tools digging and drilling into your teeth is uncomfortable at best. For some people, however, anxiety at the dentist can be disproportional and may result in a lot of distress and even absenteeism. If your feelings of anxiety are causing you crippling stress or deterring you from going to the dentist, then you may be suffering from dental anxiety.

Dental anxiety is unsurprisingly common and can exacerbate dental and oral health issues. Continue reading to find out if you're suffering from dental anxiety, and how you can reduce it.

How To Tell If You Have Dental Anxiety

For some people, identifying dental anxiety may not be so apparent because the symptoms felt may be subtle or seemingly unrelated to the condition. If you are experiencing one or a combination of the following factors, then you may have dental anxiety:

• Profuse sweating
• A rapid heartbeat
• Feelings of faintness (or fainting)
• Apparent signs of distress such as signs of crying or panic
• Behavioral coping mechanisms such as withdrawal and the use of humor or aggression to mask feelings of anxiety.

Tip 1 - Bring Support Along

Coping with dental anxiety shouldn't be done alone. Bring a friend or family member who makes you feel safe, supported, and at peace during difficult and stress-inducing times - be sure to ask them ahead of time. This support person should be able to keep you calm and reassure you; they may be able to help you using relaxation techniques, or distract you using humor or intrigue, or through some other means.

If the dental practice permits it, they may be able to be in the room with you while the procedure is being performed, or they could wait in the waiting room until you're finished.

Tip 2 - Communication is Key

While staff at dental practices endeavor to create a relaxing, calming, and caring atmosphere, sometimes it isn't enough to defeat anxious feelings. If you're still feeling anxious, then we recommend that you communicate these feelings to both the dentist and their assistant.

By expressing your feelings, they will become aware of your anxiety and subsequently adapt their procedures to be more supportive by avoiding your triggers, working through your fears, and making the procedure as easy as possible. It is essential that you never feel ashamed to admit your feelings of anxiety. Dental teams are trained and deal with dental anxiety frequently.

Tip 3 - Relaxation Techniques

Through the use of easy to do relaxation techniques, you can reduce or eliminate feelings of anxiety yourself. The best thing about these relief techniques is that they become more useful the more you use them!

Deep breathing

This technique involves sitting down and taking a series of deep, controlled breaths. Redirecting your focus to your breathing takes your focus off of your anxiety, helping you to become calm and relaxed. On top of this, deep breathing can lower your blood pressure and heart rate, which is extremely useful for reducing stress and anxiety.

Visualization
 
This process involves the use of your imagination. By taking a few deep breaths and closing your eyes, you can use your imagination to substitute the dentist's room with a relaxing environment, your favorite place, or even home. Furthermore, as an alternative, you could recall some happy or exciting memories.

Tip 4 - Use Some Distractions During Your Appointment
 
While waiting for your appointment, it becomes easy to fixate on the feelings of fear you may be experiencing, which if left unmanaged, can become worse. If there aren't suitable distractions in the waiting room, then it is crucial then that you bring something or someone along with you that can effectively distract you from your anxiety.

If you are unable to bring along a support person, then we recommend that you bring something highly distracting. Such things may include your phone so that you may watch a show or movie, or listen to an audiobook or podcast. Alternatively, you may also want to consider bringing a book of crossword puzzles/sudoku, your favorite book, magazine, or newspaper. Free Wi-Fi is the best part about going to emergencydentistsandiego.net clinics. They don’t give you magazines to read to distract yourself. They know that you’ve got enough distractions on your phone. And all you need is a high speed WiFi and you’re all set. That’s exactly what you get when you visit Emergency Dentist San Diego’s clinics.

Conclusion 

To sum things up, dental anxiety is a common variant of anxiety that causes profuse sweating, an elevated heartbeat, feelings of faintness, feelings of stress and panic, and absenteeism when visiting the dentist. Overcoming dental anxiety is very much possible through a combination of different strategies. First and foremost, we recommend bringing a support person; or if this isn't possible, you can administer relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization to keep your anxiety under control. Furthermore, fun and entertaining distractions such as TV shows, movies, books, and the news can eliminate feelings of anxiety.

If you suspect you might have dental anxiety, communicate this with the dental team, so that they can adjust their approach and make you feel safe, secure, and comfortable.


This is a guest blog entry.

The Air Fryer Or Instant Pot, Which Is The Superior Kitchen Buddy?

The one-pot, the instant pot, the microwave oven, the oven, the range, the toaster, the deep dryer, and the list goes on. There really is almost no end to the kitchen gadgets available today. Combine this with the ever-growing technology available in today’s world, and it is easy to see how one could go bankrupt getting swept up buying these gadgets, trying to make life easier and healthier. All that being said, there are really two gadgets that stand out on this list amongst the rest. That would have to be the air fryer and the instant pot. If you had to choose only one, which should you opt for and why?

The Instant Pot

You can put in your research, speak to professional cooks, and read reviews about the instant pot, and you’ll find one thing that is a constant. People from all around are going to boast on the device for being able to perform a multitude of functions. However, the real truth of the matter is that it only has one primary function. And, that primary function is pressure cooking. This is not to say that it is a bad function, but it is certainly a far cry from a multitude of functions. Does this make the instant pot bad? Of course not, as the instant pot can be utilized in a variety of ways. You can use it to pressure cook, cook rice, slow cook, make yogurt, saute and brown, and warm. So, you do get a multitude of benefits.

Items that people oftentimes make with the instant pot are roasts, whole chickens, ribs, pasta dishes, vegetables, seafood, soups, and desserts like cakes, cheesecakes, and Brulee.) These pots also come available in 3 distinctive options. This would be the 3-quart, 6-quart, and the 8-quart.

Why Choose Just One?

Why just settle on the air fryer or the instant pot when you can have both? No, this doesn’t mean that you have to purchase two separate devices either. Thanks to the technology available today at Corrie Cooks, there is now an air fryer lid that will fit right over your instant pot. This lid magically transforms your current instant pot into an air fryer, giving it the capabilities of a traditional air fryer, while still retaining the functions of an instant pot. Just make sure that you get an appropriate sized lid for your make, size, and model.

The Air Fryer

An air fryer is a completely different beast than the instant pot. In fact, it is like a little miniature oven, giving you access to a heating element that heats and a fan that circulates air around your delectables. This gives you the added benefit of providing a crisp outer texture to your food. Something that’ll come in more than handy when you are cooking items like egg rolls, chicken fingers, meatballs, and fries. The air fryer is much more basic in terms of usability, as it works by adjusting the time and temperature. With the instant pot, you’ll have to adjust settings based on the type of food that is being prepared. The air fryer gives you the benefit of selecting a desired temperature along with the desired time. Doesn’t get much simpler than that.

This is a post by Corrie from Corrie Cooks

Consumer Alert: Zantac Linked to Various Cancers

If you’ve taken ranitidine, better known by its brand name Zantac, you should be aware of the following:

●    Zantac and its generic alternatives have been linked to various cancers
●    The drug was recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
●    If you were diagnosed with cancer after taking ranitidine, you may be eligible for compensation

Here’s how it all unfolded – and what you can do.

Online Pharmacy Detects Unsafe Levels of NDMA in Zantac

N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is an organic chemical classified as a probable human carcinogen by the FDA and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The substance is a “known environmental contaminant” that can be “found in water and foods, including meats, dairy products, and vegetables,” according an FDA statement.

In June 2019, online pharmacy Valisure detected unsafe levels of the chemical in Zantac and its generic alternatives. They then notified the FDA of their findings.

Valisure Files a Petition to Recall Zantac
Three months later, Valisure filed a petition with the FDA requesting that all ranitidine products be recalled. The company’s research found that NDMA was the result of the “inherent instability of the ranitidine molecule,” meaning that all medications containing ranitidine could potentially unleash high levels of NDMA in the body. They noted that ranitidine has a “high perception of safety” and is heavily prescribed to adults and infants.

In the months that followed, numerous manufacturers voluntarily recalled Zantac from pharmacy shelves.

FDA Recalls Zantac
On April 1, 2020, the FDA ordered the recall of all prescription and over-the-counter ranitidine medications. The decision was influenced by a growing body of evidence that the drug was contaminated with unacceptable levels of NDMA.

The FDA noted that low levels of NDMA are commonly ingested by humans, for example in food and water, and “would not be expected to increase the risk for cancer.” However, they said, “higher levels of exposure may increase the risk.”

After conducting thorough laboratory tests, they found that the impurity in some ranitidine medications increased over time. When stored above room temperature, NDMA levels increased significantly, posing a serious risk to consumers.

Litigation Begins
If you’ve used Zantac or a generic alternative to treat heartburn, stomach ulcers, or another medical condition, stop taking it immediately and dispose of your remaining supply. Your doctor can offer alternative treatment options to address your symptoms. The FDA recommends Pepcid, Nexium, and Prilosec, among others.

Next, assess your legal options. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Manufacturers have an obligation to ensure medications that reach the public are safe. An attorney can help you determine whether you have grounds for a lawsuit.

To learn more about Zantac lawsuits, click here.

This is a blog post by Mary Smith.

How Celebrities Deal with Depression And Could You Do The Same

It’s time to be honest. Studies show that one in four people are affected by some form of anxiety, depression or a similar mental health issues. The world we are living in is making a lot of things rather difficult and our mental health is the first thing that suffers from all the stress of our everyday lives. It can keep creeping up on you for years and years and then suddenly become so strong that you cannot seem to bear it anymore. Since people tend to have misconceptions about what depression feels like, I suggest you learn more about it before we go any further.

Speaking of misconceptions, here’s another common one. If you have a successful career, make good money and have a generally happy family, there’s no way you’ll become depressed. It’s just insulting how untrue this is. This is a mental illness we are talking about and it’s about time that people started taking it seriously.

Following the “logic” above, one would say that famous and successful people, actors, musicians, businessmen and similar all have a shield around them not letting depression creep in. If that were true, then statistics would show very different numbers. That’s, however, completely untrue. This disorder does not discriminate in anyway. After all, it is an illness, and illnesses don’t care how much money you have.

Raising Awareness And Motivating Treatments

When you spend months or years trying to unsuccessfully find meaning in your life and enjoy it, when everything feels meaningless and hopeless and when your career and your relationships are affected by your inability to focus or find any joy in life, money becomes completely irrelevant. It’s definitely not the way to solving the issue. If it were, you couldn’t find a depressed famous person, could you?

Oh, but we can very well find them and easily. As I have already mentioned, this illness doesn’t discriminate and doesn’t choose its victims in accordance with their bank account. Nor do the victims choose it. That’s why you will find so many celebrities with depression, which, paradoxically, might be a good thing, because it can teach us that we are all in the same boat.

Plus, if anyone has the power to influence the public, then celebrities do. That means that they can raise awareness about the seriousness of this illness, but also help a lot of individuals find their path towards recovery. Today, we’re going to see how celebrities usually and successfully deal with this disorder and, hopefully, we’ll motivate someone to do the same thing if it turns out to be applicable.

How Celebrities Do It

Demi Lovato admits that this disorder got here whole life off track, but she claims to be the living proof that everything can change for the better once you get the necessary treatment. Robert Pattinson says that he has learned to love his little quirks that anxiety has brought about, while Angelina Jolie claims that she didn’t appreciate her life enough in the past and that the humanitarian work she does has really helped her find herself. Chrissy Teigan wants people to know that they aren’t alone in this and that it can happen to anyone.

Do you know what all of these and much more celebrities who fought depression have in common, though? They would all agree that getting the right treatment is of utmost importance when struck by this disorder. Getting the right treatment, of course, means that you need to get in touch with medical professionals who are able to help you.

No matter all the other techniques that celebrities have employed, such as Lena Dunham and her accent on exercising, there’s one thing nobody can deny. Nothing can top therapy and most of these celebrities have sought professional help to overcome their struggles. That only goes to show that there are a lot of layers to dealing with depression, but therapy is definitely the top and most important layer.

Here’s what else these people have to say about depression: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/wellness/g3541/celebrities-with-depression/?slide=5

How You Could Do It

You should exercise, that’s for sure. You should also take care of your diet, engage in activities you like, pick up a hobby or two and try to do improve your lifestyle in order to help yourself feel better at least temporarily. That’s the thing, though. These techniques are usually temporary and, frankly, they sometimes sound like those ignorant pieces of advice you hear from people who have never dealt with this in their entire lives.

They aren’t ignorant pieces of advice. It’s just that you cannot get yourself to get off the couch and do any of those things, even though you know they’ll help. That’s where therapy comes into play. It helps you regain control over your life and yourself in the first place which, consequently, leads to following all the other pieces of advice that these celebrities have given us.

This is a guest blog entry.

Why darker eyeglasses are better for sensitive eyes?

If you are the guy that loves to close the blinds, turn off the lights, or like to stay in a dark corner of the room, your eyes may be sensitive. Putting on sunglasses may seem like an easy solution, even indoors. But wearing darker sunglasses for sensitive eyes is not a long-term solution. This is why:

Don't make your eyes love the dark.

Wearing sunglasses indoors can reduce your short-term discomfort. It might even help you avoid having a migraine if certain types of light are a trigger for you. But with that sense of immediate relief, there's a significant risk: the risk of adjusting the darkness to your eyes to become even more sensitive to light over time.

The last time you went to see a movie during the day, do you remember how it felt to leave the dark theatre and go out in the sun? Especially if you're sensitive to light, it could have been downright painful. While you were in the theatre, your eyes got used to the dark and just weren't ready for daylight.

Wearing sunglasses indoors regularly, be it the average pair or the darkest sunglasses for sensitive eyes, you can find that darkness can adapt your eyes over time. This means that his retinas have become so used to the darkening conditions that when he inevitably ventures into normal light, he gets that painful cinematic effect.

Wearing sunglasses indoors should be strongly discouraged. By wearing dark sunglasses indoors, patients go dark, adjusting their retina and worsening their sensitivity to light. "

Necessarily, the regular wearing of sunglasses indoors will make your eyes more sensitive to light over time. And since you often can't control lighting outside of your own home, that will become a problem.

Where to buy

You can buy these darker eyeglasses online at SmartBuyGlasses collection. If you want to buy prescription glasses, you may need a prescription first. Lens Scanner app has been specially developed to get your prescription at home. After getting your prescription from this app, you can easily buy your desired glasses at SmartBuyGlasses collection.

Choosing the right sunglasses for the outdoors

You must be sure about the quality and ability to reflect light when choosing outdoor glasses.
Sunglasses must have a UVB transmittance (315 to 280 nm) of less than 1% and a UVA transmittance (380 to 315 nm) of less than 0.3 times the transmittance of visible light.

These are the darkest standard sunglasses you can get that are legal to drive in the United States. They provide a high level of sunburst reduction and the right level of UV protection against the intense sun or reflected light from water or snow.

Darker sunglasses for sensitive eyes won't work indoors - try glasses designed for light sensitivity.

Sunglasses are designed to darken all kinds of light. But light-sensitive people should remember that not all lights are created equal. Certain types of light in the spectrum are more likely to be a problem than others. Instead of wearing sunglasses indoors to block all types of light, it is better to filter only the painful types.

This is a guest blog entry.

Foods to Boost Your Immunity During Pandemics and Flu Season

While we are still in the midst of summer, the fact of the matter is that the influenza season is not far off (not to mention that we are still in a pandemic). This is why there is no better time than the present to begin adopting a healthier diet. Did you know that certain foods can help your body combat the flu and others will provide your immune system with a much-needed boost before autumn arrives? We’re not promising a cure to COVID-19, but let's take a look at some excellent (and tasty) suggestions that are easy to adopt. You can therefore remain confident that you are fully prepared for whatever the remainder of 2020 has in store.

The Importance of Certain Vitamins

Why do some individuals become sicker than others? While there are several factors which can come into play, it is a well-known fact that a deficiency in specific vitamins can lower our immune systems. This is particularly the case when referring to vitamin C and the vitamin B complex. So, it only makes sense that we should consume plenty of foods high in these substances. The majority of fruits contain high levels of vitamin C. These include:

• Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges and grapefruit)
• Strawberries and raspberries
• Tomatoes
• Leafy greens such as spinach and cabbage

Vitamin B is another must-have nutrient if you wish to bolster your immune defenses. Not only can vitamin B help to prevent infections, but it has also been shown to boost cellular health, to increase digestive efficiency, to improve the function of your brain, and to ensure good eyesight. The good news is that plenty of foods will provide you with an ample dose such as:

• Whole grains (including brown rice and barley)
• Seeds and nuts
• Dark leafy green vegetables
• Citrus fruits, bananas and avocados
• Milk, cheese and eggs

All of these foods are also quite tasty and they can be prepared in a number of different ways. So, you can remain healthy without having to resort to multivitamins alone.

Heart-Boosting Benefits

While maintaining a healthy immune system is obviously important throughout the year, some of us have a tendency to overlook the beneficial impacts that some foods can have upon the cardiovascular system. There are many foods that are good for the heart and you might be surprised to learn of the variety at your disposal. Here are some interesting examples:

• Raspberries, blackberries and blueberries.
• Nuts and legumes
• Natural vegetable crisps
• Dark chocolate (an excellent source of antioxidants)

It is therefore clear to see that maintaining a healthy heart does not signify that you will be forced to eat bland foods. Of course, maintaining

A strong heart and immune system also involves other suggestions such as getting plenty of exercise, obtaining the recommended amount of sleep every night and quitting smoking. If you are able to make these healthy changes, you will be much better prepared for the upcoming flu season.

This is a guest blog entry.

5 Science-Based Health Benefits of Drinking Enough Water

Water is essential to all life on the planet. It doesn’t matter if you’re a camel that can survive up to 7 months without water or a human that can survive approximately 3 days. At some point everything needs water.

For humans, it is an essential part of staying alive and functioning correctly. Of course, the quality of the water also helps. That’s why you should consider having your tap water tested and speaking to this specialist in water filters Sydney. You may be surprised at what you discover.

If you’re still not convinced about the importance of water consider the following 5 science-based health benefits.

1.  Physical performance

When exercising you can lose up to 10% of your water weight, especially if you’re exercising in a hot climate.  However, dehydration of as little as 2% will start to affect your thought processes and your ability to exercise.

The result is a reduced ability to control body temperature, increased tiredness, and even mental fatigue.  Stay hydrated to prevent this from happening!

2.  Mood & Concentration

As mentioned a lack of water gives you mental fatigue. There is a direct link between drinking enough water and brain function. Dehydration has been linked with impaired mood, reduced levels of concentration, and increased feelings of anxiety/paranoia.

3. Fewer Headaches

Research shows that a headache is one of the most common symptoms of dehydration. Because this is likely to be the issue of your headache, drinking water can actually relieve the pain. Of course, drinking water is also going to rehydrate you which should help to eliminate the headache.
It should be noted that while there has been a lot of research to support this, more needs to be done to show why water consumption generally relieves headaches so effectively.

4. Relieves Constipation

Infrequent bowel movements and stools that are hard to pass is a surprisingly common issue. It’s painful and can lead to further complications.

Unsurprisingly, dehydration is a factor in constipation. Drinking more water daily will reduce the occurrence of constipation and make bowel movements more regular and softer. It’s worth noting that mineral water is particularly effective at helping with constipation, especially if it’s rich in magnesium and sodium.

5. Weight Control

Because water is so essential for your body it can actually help you to maintain your weight! In the first instance, water allows the transfer of nutrients into your cells and the removal of toxins. This encourages your cells to use the resources available efficiently rather than simply storing them.
But, you’ll also find that the process of drinking water leaves your stomach feeling fuller. This reduces your ability to consume food, helping you to lose weight or simply maintain your current weight.

You may also like to note that many people confuse thirst with hunger and reach for a snack. In fact, the sensations are similar. So, when you think you’re hungry, try drinking a glass of water. It’s good for you and may just stop you from grazing.

This is a guest blog entry.

Top Hidden Benefits of Cryolipolysis You Did Not Know About

With the improvement in technology, you can lose fat in specific body parts without undergoing surgery. The technique used to remove these unwanted fats is called cryolipolysis. This fat-freezing method targets stubborn fats that are resilient to exercises and diets. Both men and women can undergo the procedure. The process is known as cryolipolysis, CoolSculpting, or fat-freezing. The benefits of cryolipolysis include:

The Procedure Is Low Risk

Coolsculpting is less risky compared to other procedures like liposuction. The process does not involve needles, surgery, or medication. During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will not administer any anesthesia; hence you will be conscious and relaxing.

There are no dangers of getting injured or having infections after the process. Your surgeon will also be using a low temperature that cannot damage your skin or internal organs. You can resume your usual plans immediately after the procedure.

The Procedure Is Clinically Approved

Food and government administration have approved cryolipolysis. The approval indicates that the procedure is legal and safe. Thus, you need not worry about risking your health.

The Process Is Quick

Cryolipolysis procedure is fast and efficient. Going for an appointment to freeze any lose fat will not consume your time. Depending on which area you are targeting, it can take you minutes to finish. Most doctors will confirm to you that the treatment takes roughly thirty minutes to one hour.
Guaranteed Noticeable Results

When you undergo fat freezing, the results are noticeable. Most experts affirm that CoolSculpting will benefit you one hundred percent compared to other procedures. Institutions such as the National Institute of Health have tested and approved the technique. After undergoing fat freezing, your confidence level will improve since the stubborn fat that would bother you will be a thing of the past.

Fat freezing using cryolipolysis systems allows you to remove the fat in multiple areas in one session. Thus, you can use the device to freeze fat, for instance, around the stomach area, thighs, chin, arms, and legs. You will be able to go to the beach or put on those clothes previously a challenge.

Your doctor will tell you that some users swear to notice the results in four weeks after the treatment. However, the procedure will peak around the twelfth week, which is for three months.

Cryolipolysis Completely Destroys the Fat Cells

The fat-freezing procedure will be destroying these cells, and they will never recur. Using technology thus gives you peace of mind. CoolSculpting changes the contents of the fat cells, thus eradicating them. Since the procedure eradicates the fat cells, the risk of regaining the weight is low.

The End Result Looks Natural

If you decide to freeze fat using the technology, the result looks natural and amazing. For instance, if you had previously started losing weight, cryolipolysis will suck any hanging skin or bumps. Hence, to avoid scars that remain after weight loss surgery, it is best to try CoolSculpting.

If you have stubborn fat that has refused to end after exercising and dieting, you should not despair to try fat freezing using cryolipolysis systems; the procedure is less risky. The other benefits include; attaining natural results, the process is approved, guaranteed results, and no possibility of regaining back the destroyed fat.

This is a guest blog entry.

How To Stay Sober Through a Global Catastrophe

As we are enduring the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic, many people are experiencing the hardest parts of life during a time of self isolation. Experiencing the loss of a friend or loved one, having those close to you contract a potentially fatal illness, losing a job, and even getting sick yourself are scary and emotional events. These things can be triggering, and unfortunately increase stress, and therefore the danger of a relapse taking place. Feeling isolated does not help with this situation either. However, there are some things that you can do to stay sober during these tough times. Here are some ways on how to stay sober through a global catastrophe.

1. Continue Your Therapy Online
Addiction treatment and recovery usually involves one or more therapy types. Attending therapy is a crucial element to treatment for multiple reasons. The first reason is that therapy is an excellent tool for learning how to understand triggers and manage addiction cravings. This type of support is especially important during a global catastrophe because of all the emotions surrounding this kind of event. Due to the fact that mental health issues and conditions can also cause relapse, therapy is important for treating these things as well. Luckily, most therapists have continued their appointments online via video chats or phone calls.

2. Attend Support Group Zoom Meetings
Like online therapy sessions, support group meetings have moved online since the Coronavirus pandemic has started. Support groups are a great way to connect with others who understand what addiction treatment and recovery is really like. It also gives recovering addicts the opportunity to meet people who are farther into recovery than they are themselves. This can be a motivator that not only encourages recovering addicts to continue with their treatment but also that achieving a successful sober life is possible.
                                                                                                                   
3. Stay Connected With Your Close Friends and Family
Keeping in contact with close friends and family is extremely important for maintaining a sober living home. Self isolation and social distancing can, at times, feel incredibly lonely. However, phone calls, text, and video calls are ways that you can stay in close contact with your support system safely. Doing these things can reduce the chances of a relapse occurring, and it can help improve feelings of loneliness and anxiety.

4. Keep Yourself Busy
Keeping yourself busy throughout the day is important for all recovering addicts, but this is especially true for those going through a drug detox. Keeping yourself occupied provides a distraction from withdrawal symptoms and addiction cravings. It can also be a great way to keep your mind off of the elements of a global catastrophe. Starting a new hobby, reading, writing, exercising, and exploring creative outlets are productive and healthy ways to keep yourself busy from home during addiction treatment and recovery.

5. Try To Keep Up a Routine
 One of the best ways to keep yourself busy everyday is having a set daily routine. Although working from home or losing a job can disrupt your old routines, establishing a new daily routine or maintaining an old one greatly improves the chances for success in addiction treatment. Establishing a set time to wake up, eat meals, and go to sleep is a great way to get a daily routine started. Doing things like creating an exercise routine and attending virtual support group meetings can help with forming a daily routine as well.

Continue Living a Healthy Lifestyle
The main goal of addiction treatment is to improve the health of a recovering addict. However, oftentimes there are multiple lifestyle changes that need to occur before a healthy sober life is achieved. Eating a healthy diet, keeping yourself hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are simple things that you can do to improve your health. These things help with both managing withdrawal symptoms and creating a sustainable daily routine. For example, strength training has been proven to help reduce insomnia and staying hydrated has been shown to help with managing nausea. Having an exercise routine and taking the time out of your day to prepare healthy meals and get enough sleep help with creating a daily routine as well. It is important to continue to maintain your health during a global catastrophe.

Conclusion
Staying sober during a global catastrophe can be hard, but there are things that you can do to continue addiction treatment safely from home. Luckily, we live during a time with plenty of technological tools that we can use during times of self isolation. For example, therapy sessions have begun to take place over the phone or on video calls, and support group meetings are now taking place over zoom. Staying in contact with close friends and family is also easier than it ever has been before. Keeping up with having therapy sessions, attending support group meetings, and staying in contact with your support system are still possible and extremely beneficial. In addition having a daily routine, keeping yourself busy, and living a healthy lifestyle are ways that you can distract yourself from and manage addiction cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Author bio:
Kelsey Brown is an Austin-based writer. She received her B.S. in Journalism from Missouri State University and writes about addiction recovery, health, and well-being for Briarwood Detox Center. In her spare time, Kelsey enjoys doing outdoor activities with her family like hiking, camping, and kayaking.

What Is Covered By A Medicare Supplement Plan?

It is important to realize that Medicare supplement plans operate differently from many of the health plans with which you may already be familiar. The fact is that they do not provide benefits in the same way that a conventional sort of coverage would. Instead, they are designed to assist with costs not paid by original Medicare plans.

Some of the costs that a supplement plan can cover include:

1. Medicare deductible amounts
2. Coinsurance payments
3. Hospitalization costs incurred once Medicare coverage is exhausted
4. Costs for skilled nursing care once Medicare coverage runs out

The paragraphs below will offer some useful information on how a supplemental plan works.

A supplement plan will require you to pay a monthly premium amount. Plans of this nature are sometimes referred to as Medicap plans. A plan pays most of the out-of-pocket costs you would otherwise incur. So, when you have a doctor visit, you will not be responsible for the 20% coinsurance amount that Medicare would typically require. Rather, your supplemental coverage will kick in at this point. With certain supplemental plans, you may need to pay some form of copay rather than the 20% coinsurance amount.

Supplemental plans of this sort are not the only available option, however. Medicare Advantage options exist which can also lower the costs connected to Medicare coverage. Such plans tend to provide even greater coverage that supplemental plans do not offer.

Now we will move on to a discussion of the ways in which supplemental plans and Medicare Advantage plans diverge. It pays to do your research to determine which option suits your circumstances best.

Medicare Supplemental Plans:

1. You may need up to three difference insurance coverage cards.
2. You will need to coordinate your coverage between Medicare itself, your supplemental plan, and a Part D prescription drug plan, if applicable.
3. This type of plan can help pay costs that would otherwise be paid out of pocket under traditional Medicare.
4. You will not receive coverage for vision, dental, or prescription drug needs.
5. There are no network restrictions.
6. You will receive no coverage for prescription drugs under Part D, therefore a Part D plan would be needed separately.

Medicare Advantage:

1. You will have just one insurance card.
2. There is just one company with which to coordinate your care.
3. You may receive ancillary benefits such as vision, dental, and prescription drugs.
4. There may be network limitations as to which doctors you may see.

Find out more about Medicare Advantage Plans 2021 here.

Supplemental plans can be ideal for those with existing coverage for prescription drugs through the military or through an employer plan.

This is a guest blog entry.

Tips To Help You Cope With Anxiety

Everyone can feel anxiety, tension and nervousness in some situations. Here are five tips to help you manage these feelings and keep your anxiety under control.

Learn Relaxation Techniques

We all think relaxation is something very easy to do. However, resting on your couch, watching TV or playing games on the computer aren't true relaxation. On the contrary, some of these activities can even generate more stress. This is also true for smoking, alcohol or drugs. Even though the use of such substances appears to relieve stress and anxiety, this is only for a very short time. What your body really needs is the regular practice of a proven relaxation technique that helps calming the mind such as yoga, tai chi, and deep breathing. Deep breathing, for instance, can trigger the relaxation of a major nerve that reaches to the brain. The body gets this message to let go and relax.

Sleep, Eat, And Exercise

If you want your body and mind to feel strong and fully capable to deal with stressful situations, you have to ensure you get the right amount of sleep. The use of essential oils for better sleep is proven to aid a deeper relaxed sleep. Also, you have to pay attention to the things you eat. A healthy and balanced diet, with fruit, vegetables and high-quality proteins, will provide you with the energy you need to cope with life's ups and downs. Exercise is also useful, as it helps sending oxygen to all cells in your body, thus providing them with the fuel they need to work properly.

Connect With Your Peers

Try to spend quality time with your family and friends. While organized activities and various events are awesome, simply hanging around with people you love can have the same effect. Doing things with our beloved ones is a surefire way to strengthen our bonds, to feel more loved and more secure. Having fun with other people can make us feel happier and take negative things easier. If you feel anxious about something, the simple fact of sharing your thoughts with someone else can help you feel better. You'll discover that you're not alone, as all of us worry about various issues every now and then. You are not an exception, you are just a regular person with thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Connect With Nature

Make a habit of walking in the park or hiking the mountains. Such activities can help you feel peaceful and relaxed. Make sure you pick safe places to hike or walk, in order to relax and enjoy the scenery. In addition, walking, hiking, biking or snowshoeing will provide you with the benefits of working out. You don't have to walk or hike alone. Invite one of your friends to join you.

Pay Attention To Good Things

Pay attention to minor blessings and positive things. You'll be amazed at how many such things we overlook each and every day. Allow yourself to daydream and to let go of the mundane, at least for a while.

This is a guest blog entry.

Some important facts you should know about erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is most often defined as the inability to obtain and maintain an erection of a member sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. They are often accompanied by individual discomfort and difficulties in the relationship with a sexual partner. A report states that about 5 percent of men that are 40 years old have complete erectile dysfunction, and that number increases to about 15 percent of men at age 70. You can buy tadalafil in uk with Numan and its effects last for 36 hours.

How does erectile dysfunction manifest themselves?
Erectile dysfunction is now considered not so much as a separate disease, but as a symptom of other diseases, especially those affecting the cardiovascular system, since most risk factors are the same. Symptoms of disorders may increase gradually (more often then the involvement of organic factors is suspected, e.g. increasing in connection with hypertension and excess cholesterol vascular damage) or suddenly appear in a person who has been functioning well until now (more often then the involvement of psychological factors, e.g. stress related to a new partner, acute stress related to another area of life or a direct influence of other factors, e.g. the consumption of large amounts of alcohol).

What to do if symptoms occur?
The occurrence of symptoms once or several times in a situation that can be psychologically understood or attributable to a factor, e.g. alcohol consumption, does not require action, especially when the elimination of this situation results in a resolution of symptoms. However, repetitive or persistent erectile dysfunction that builds up during erectile dysfunction requires medical consultation in order to make the correct diagnosis. The doctor may be a sexologist, urologist, psychiatrist or internist. It may also make sense to report to a cardiologist because erectile dysfunction may be several years ahead of other symptoms of coronary artery disease and is frequented by a coronary heart attack.

Is it possible to cure completely?
The possibility of complete recovery depends on the cause. The effectiveness of oral medications for erectile dysfunction is very high. In patients with severe vascular damage, advanced diabetes, penile tissue damage, and in those who have testicular hypo existence in testosterone secretion, the efficacy of oral medications is lower. The cause may also be incorrect intake of oral medications. Similarly, good results are achieved after injection into the cavernous bodies of a member or vacuum apparatus.

These methods may be effective as indicated in some patients who do not respond to oral medications or cannot use them. Psychotherapeutic and training methods show good effectiveness in cases in which the problem appeared at some point in sexual functioning (does not apply to, for example, all life), partners have a good bond, mutual desire and good general health are present. It is often appropriate to combine pharmacological and psychotherapeutic methods.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Dos and Don'ts of Buying from an Online Pharmacy

Buying commodities online has never been more relevant than now. With strict regulations on social distancing, most people find internet shopping not only a safer choice but also more convenient. And nowadays, everything you need is available at a click of a button – including medicine.

Online pharmacies are usually independent businesses but are sometimes also affiliated with brick and mortar stores. These stores can fill your prescriptions online efficiently, and most if not all have physicians available to write a prescription for minor conditions after the customer has completed a questionnaire.

Why are online pharmacies gaining popularity?

The primary driver for the success of online pharmacies is convenience. For people on the go, it's a relief when you have the option to buy essential medication without having to go line up inside a store. Buying online also means you can discreetly purchase medicine that you'd otherwise maybe feel embarrassed to buy in person.

But like any service where you can't physically examine the product you buy, there are risks you need to be aware of and avoid. For instance, if you want to order antibiotics online, you need to make sure that you're getting the right dosage according to your prescription. Let's discuss further the dos and don'ts of buying medicine online.

Do buy from a reputable and licensed online pharmacy

Because online pharmacies are in demand, you'll likely come across some shady shops out there. As such, you'll need to identify red flags so that you can avoid them. First, check if the store has a license. If possible, you may want to cross-reference it with the appropriate agency. Another sign to look into is whether their prices seem too good to be true. You should also avoid spam emails from stores that offer the cheapest medicine online.

Do have your prescription ready

When buying from an online pharmacy, make sure that the store asks for and verifies your prescription. They should also have a licensed pharmacist available to answer your questions. If you don't need a prescription for the medicine you need, the pharmacist should at least help you in buying the appropriate dosage or choose from branded and generic alternatives.

Don't buy from an overseas store

One of the most critical things to avoid when buying medicine online is a store that operates overseas. There have been many instances of people getting duped into purchasing counterfeit or placebo drugs. Not only are these ineffective but also can be dangerous to your health.

Don't experiment with unknown medicine brands

One of the most enticing aspects of buying online is how you get bombarded with marketing information about specific products. Many people end up buying what they don't need which they'll often later regret. The same thing applies to online pharmacies. Once in a while, you'll see an advertisement for a supplement or medicine worth trying. Some of these products won't require a verified prescription from your physician. But without a prescription and consultation with your doctor, experimenting with such medicine will be harmful to your health and might lead to adverse side effects. 

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/L4iKccAChOc

This is a guest blog entry.

How to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Did you know that getting a good night’s sleep is just as important for your health as eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise? Many people overlook the significance of a good sleep regime. However, it’s an aspect of your lifestyle that needs to be considered for your future health and well-being. If you’re a poor sleeper and are used to tossing and turning for hours on end every night, you’re likely to feel constantly sluggish, tired, and even, in some cases, sick the following day, which eventually takes its toll both mentally and physically.

This guide will help you put some strategies in place to get a better night’s sleep:

Sleep at regular times

One of the main reasons why you may be struggling to nod off is because you may be sleeping at irregular times. Most adults should be getting between 7-9 hours of sleep each evening, but this is often easier said than done. Making the effort to fall asleep and wake up at specific times will ensure you’re getting the rest you need - try and set a bedroom schedule to follow on a step-by-step basis to help you get into a routine.

While you may be tempted to catch up on a nap during the day after missing several hours of sleep during the night, this will only disrupt your sleeping routine further.

Wind down routine

It’s difficult to climb into bed and expect to fall asleep straight away. A winding down strategy is often needed to help get into a relaxed state for sleep. Here are a few ideas which may be useful to make a note of:

• Take a warm bath
• Meditation session
• Read a book or listen to a podcast to distract the mind
• Download sleep apps
• Write down thoughts to help clear the mind

A weighted blanket

One of the trendy new home decor items and the latest sleep remedy is a weighted blanket. According to researchers, this type of blanket is designed to help you maintain a better sleep pattern. Typically, the blanket is filled with plastic pellets, which provides a heavy sensation when laid over the duvet, and the deep pressure stimulation has been discovered to ease anxiety and, therefore, promote sleep.

Control your exposure to light

Melatonin is a sleep hormone that’s released in the brain, which alerts your body of the appropriate times to sleep and wake. As it starts to get dark, more melatonin is released, which makes you feel tired and ready to sleep, while being exposed to natural light makes you feel more energized. Therefore, it would be advised to spend as much time in the sunlight during the day to keep your energy levels up, but refrain from using your phone or any other technological devices before you go to bed. Doing the latter can drastically interfere with your sleeping pattern if you’re exposed to too much light. These devices emit artificial blue light, which keeps your brain stimulated for hours and makes it more difficult to drop off to sleep.

This is a guest blog post.

How To Keep Fit And Healthy During Covid 19 Pandemic

COVID 19 has altered most of the things that we are used to, and people are now learning the 'new normal'.  Going to the gym and exercising with others is no longer safe as people fear to contract the deadly virus. Heading to the market and get fresh produce is not also advisable because you are not supposed to interact with crowds. Some people have been laid off their jobs while others are working from home. Staying home for prolonged periods poses a challenge for those who want to remain physically active. The following are some practical tips on how to remain active during this period
Dance

Even if the virus does not have a vaccine nor a cure yet, that does not mean that you should always be sad. Dancing is one of the best exercises when you want to maintain a healthy heart. You do not have to be an expert dancer to enjoy such exercises. You can choose from moderate to high-intensity dancing techniques to keep yourself fit. There are numerous videos that you can stream online or even watch your TV for such programs. Dancing helps your body release endorphins that boost your moods even when having a bad day.

Take breaks

Working from home can be the best thing to happen to you. You no longer have to deal with traffic jams or even office politics daily. However, you may find that you spend a lot of time sitting at your office desk, which is not good for your health. You need to plan your tasks in bits if you want to be productive. Ensure that you take a short break after every 45 minutes and let your mind rest. You can walk around in your home or even stretch before you resume your tasks.

Join a Spa

Your physical appearance does not have to suffer just because there is a global pandemic. You can get the looks and appearance that you have been craving for when you are in the right hands. You can enjoy both physical and online Spa services to keep your health in check. A Spa such as New Medspa in Flushing, NY can take care of different things such as your face and the general body to ensure that you are relieved from various conditions and get that young look you have been craving for. The ideal Spa is one that takes holistic approaches and the latest technology to ensure that you get the desired results.

Try some relaxation techniques

You may tend to focus so much on the physical health and forget about the mental well-being. It even gets worse when your industry has been adversely affected by this pandemic. Meditation and deep breaths may be all that you need when you feel as if your moods are low. You can even try yoga as it helps you concentrate on things that matter in your life. Ensure that you have a quiet space as you try some of these techniques. Let yourself be vulnerable and address some of the issues that might be troubling you.

Eat healthily

It cannot be stressed enough about the role that foods play when it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle. Being near your kitchen and the fridge may tempt you to have a bite frequently. However, you need to ensure that you take only healthy foods and in the right proportions. Take a walk in the neighborhood to aid the digestion of these foods while still observing social distancing guidelines. Take your time and visit the market or shop online from select vendors as this helps you keep your health in check
.
Get active

You shouldn't spend the entire day at your house. You can move around or even use the stairs to get active. This sounds simple but can come with numerous health benefits that you cannot even imagine. If you live in an apartment, then it is time that you abandon the lift and let the staircase be your best friend. You are likely to lose some weight when you are physically active and frequently use the stairs, which is good for your health. Your legs will also be strong, which ensures that various muscles attain some leanness level.

Keeping fit during this pandemic is realistic when you follow the above tips. Life should continue even if we have to learn some new routines and shortcuts to good health. Being creative and innovative as humans should be a blessing to make life better and bearable.

This is a guest blog entry.

How to Deal With Pandemic-Related Stress

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, it’s no surprise that so many people are struggling with heightened levels of stress. In a new world of self-isolation and mandatory quarantine, adjusting to a life with little socialization can be very stressful. Furthermore, with so little information about vaccines and hopes for the future, not knowing what to expect moving forward can create even more anxiety. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that many people are experiencing pandemic-related stress. Addressing mental health challenges in constructive ways is important. To combat anxiety, here are a few things you can do:

Keep Connected
Humans are, by nature, social creatures. Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of social interactions on mental health. But with unprecedented levels of isolation, more people are struggling to adjust to a lifestyle that lacks physical communication. However, rather than retreat, it’s important to prioritize a digital connection as best as possible. This goes beyond the standard Facetime call; with the outbreak of the coronavirus, there are more tools than ever to help individuals stay connected in fun and meaningful ways.

For instance, with the mobile application House Party, you can video conference while playing a variety of games. And with the Chrome application Netflix Party, you can watch movies with your friends and family with synchronized viewings. For larger gatherings, use Zoom or a similar platform to bring everyone together.

Seek Therapy
Therapy is one of the most effective ways to help manage stress, anxiety, and depression. According to Alan Behrman, a therapist in Alpharetta, therapy can not only help you discover the key elements contributing to your stress (both consciously and subconsciously), but can also help you practice ways of coping. Because of quarantine, finding an in-person appointment may be difficult, but there are many therapists offering video sessions, and apps like Talkspace help streamline this.

Find Laughter
You may have heard of the old adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” If you’ve ever been in a negative mood and found yourself lifted when you laugh, chances are you understand why. Laughter stimulates the lungs, brain, and heart, which ultimately releases endorphins in the brain. Even for a brief moment, laughter can relieve the body’s stress response.

Explore Hobbies
Spending so much time in the home can leave you feeling rested, and cabin fever can settle in quickly. These feelings of uneasiness can easily build up stress hormones. Because of this, it’s important for you to explore past hobbies or take up a hobby you’ve been interested in but never got around to making happen.

Doing so can help bring passion back into your life, and it’s something that many people have already begun to explore since stay-at-place orders have been announced. Research has shown that more and more people are putting dollars into hobbies, and arts and crafts and cooking supply demand has increased significantly. Whether you’ve always wanted to write a book or learn to bake, now is a great time to start exploring some of those passion projects.

Practice Gratitude
With so much negativity happening in the news each day, it’s important to start to practice gratitude. It’s natural to start to feel grief over the loss of your normal lifestyles and routines, but in a seemingly unending cycle of bad news, it’s more important than ever to learn to appreciate the good things that are happening.

For instance, perhaps now that you’ve been in isolation more, you’ve gotten to spend more time with family that you wouldn’t have otherwise. According to research, people who practice gratitude regularly sleep better, experience more positive emotions, and even have stronger immune systems.

One of the best ways to do this is by using a gratitude journal. A gratitude journal helps us better perceive the world around us and what we choose to focus on. Over time, it shifts the lens we look out of with each day. This is pretty straightforward; the idea is to keep a regular recording of the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s one item daily or five items weekly. It’s important that you don’t just go through the motion; rather than just writing to complete a task item, really think about what and why you’re grateful.

Try to keep a healthy balance between the things that you’re grateful for and the people that you’re grateful. And where possible, get specific. Another way to express gratitude is to begin expressing your thoughts and feelings to others.

This is a guest blog entry.

Our Top 5 Summer Health Tips

For the majority of people, summertime is the one season where they can finally let loose. Work schedules are more relaxed, and school is out of session. Even though we might be stuck at home, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy small family barbeques, or tanning in a hammock — or even on the grass. Of course, with so much leisure time, you don’t want to forget about your health. Here are our top 5 ways to stay healthy this summer.

Protect your Eyes

Wearing sunglasses during the summer isn’t just about looking cool. It’s a protective measure. The UV rays are stronger in the summer months, and your eyes are more susceptible to irreversible damage. Too much UV exposure can give you cataracts and macular degeneration, a condition that can ultimately make you go blind.

Water does a great job of reflecting sunlight, but that also means it can be quite damaging to your eyes if not properly protected. Wear sunglasses that filter out UV light, especially when going to the beach or by the pool.

Find the Shade

Getting some sun feels great on the body, but moderation is key. Being outdoors all day long cannot only give you a sunburn, but it can also lead to hyperthermia. This can happen even while being sufficiently hydrated, too.

Instead of staying in the sun for prolonged periods, find some shade to cool off. Do outdoor activities either before midday or in the latter half of the afternoon when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong. Also, make sure to stay in well-ventilated areas.

Take Some Time to Relax

When you’re the person in charge, it’s hard to find ways to relax. Not taking proper care of yourself can easily lead to stress, anxiety, and irritability. None of which should be experienced on a beautiful summer day. So, keep your mental health in balance by taking some time for yourself.

Unwind with some CBD-infused tea. CBD use helps reduce stress. So, let the stress melt away as you enjoy a black vanilla CBD-infused tea made from premium cannabis. If you’ve never used CBD, it doesn’t work like THC — the psychoactive chemical in cannabis. Instead, it produces a calming state rather than a high. It works naturally with your body to produce a relaxed state. If you’re curious about the effects of CBD, learn more about cannabis ingestion as well as upcoming tea blends that you might like to try.

Shield from Mosquitoes

No one likes getting bitten, and the itching sensation that never seems to go away can be pure torture. And while you can’t avoid bugs and insects altogether, you can definitely prep your skin so you don’t become their feast. Use repellant that contains between 20-30% DEET, and reapply as needed. Also, avoid wearing dark clothing as mosquitos are attracted to it.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water should already be part of your daily routine, but in the summer heat, it becomes a necessity. Water helps to regulate the proper functioning of your organs, skin, hair, and nails. Sugary drinks and alcohol are not substitutes, but teas and natural fruit juices can be included in your daily intake. Keep hydrated and you’ll be able to stay outdoors longer without experiencing fatigue.

Summer may be here, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about taking care of yourself. Follow our health tips, and you’ll be on your way to a great summer!

This is a guest blog entry.

Tips to Prepare Yourself for A Pulaski NY General Surgery Procedure

The weeks leading up to any medical operation can be nerve-wracking. However, irrespective of the type of operation, your recovery depends on the pre-treatment preparation and on the post-surgery health care tips. Hence, being aware of your own condition before the operation and better familiarity with the doctor can facilitate smooth recovery. To learn more about the services offered by Oswego Hospitals and find the location nearest you, click here.

1.  Get to Know Your Medical Professionals

Even for a routine surgical procedure, it’s important to know that you are in good hands. Talk to your physician to ensure they are qualified to perform the operation. Similarly, they can help you learn what the procedure will involve and how you should prepare for it. You will generally have a preadmission appointment a few weeks prior to your operation so that you and your doctors can go over the necessary pre-op steps. You should also consult your physician anesthesiologist, the highly trained medical professional who will administer anesthesia and monitor your health during the operation.

2.  Know Yourself – and Your Insurance!

Talk to your physician about your medical history so that you can be aware of all the risks. Prior medical conditions, blood pressure, allergies, weight, diet, alcohol and drug use all play a role in how your operation will go. These factors will help inform your doctor what you need to be most careful of before surgery. Lastly, check your medical insurance coverage to make sure that you won’t end up with any surprise bills after the surgery.

3.  Eat Healthy

For most operations you cannot eat or drink anything after midnight on the day before your procedure. Prior to this, however, having the right diet can significantly reduce the risk of post-surgery complications. Cutting down on sugary foods while increasing protein and fiber consumption will keep your circulatory and digestive systems working optimally as you recover. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits and veggies, can also contribute to a speedy and pain-free recovery.

Some doctors may also advise taking dietary supplements to improve your nutritional intake, whereas others may advise against taking them. Make sure your doctor knows what medications and supplements you take regularly before your surgery.

4. Pause Unhealthy Habits

Smoking decreases blood flow, so smokers have increased risk of suffering a stroke or a blood clot after surgery. Moreover, smoking on the day of your operation greatly increases the risk of surgery-site infection. If you cannot quit smoking entirely, do not smoke on the day of the operation. Additionally, try to cut down on smoking for at least two weeks leading up to your operation. Similarly, alcohol can react unpredictably with anesthesia and may cause other health complications. So, consider holding off on drinking in the weeks prior to surgery.

5. Stay (or Get) in Shape! 

After your surgery you will inevitably have to remain inactive for some time, so to help your body recover faster it’s important to be in the best shape you can be prior to the surgery. Individuals with an exercise routine in place already should continue it up until the day of the surgery. Even if you live a relatively inactive lifestyle, walking at least 30 minutes a day in the weeks leading up to the surgery can help improve your chances of a speedy recovery.

Similarly, if you are overweight, losing a couple kilos can help your surgeon operate more efficiently. Excess body fat reduces visibility in surgery and can mean a longer time spent under anesthesia, which can ultimately be detrimental to your health.

6. Make a Game Plan

On the day of your surgery, wear loose fitting clothing and leave any jewelry and valuables at home. Make sure to bathe, ensuring that the area that will be operated on is as clean as possible. Get a loved one to take you to the hospital for your surgery and drive you home afterwards. You should also have someone stay with you the first night home post-surgery. It could even be a good idea to do extra shopping ahead of time, so you have a well-stocked pantry while you recover.

7. Listen to Your Doctor

The ultimate judge of what you should (or shouldn’t) be doing before a surgery is your doctor. Depending on the kind of surgery you are planning to undergo, as well as any previous conditions, your doctor may recommend taking additional or different preparatory measures. Advice from a trained professional supersedes any general medical tips and will help ensure your post-operation health and safety.

Heath Buckner 

Heath Buckner is a healthcare professional who loves to write articles about the industry. Heath aims to educate the general public about the different innovations in the healthcare industry and how all of these can affect their lives.