9 Amazing Technologies Fueling Medical Breakthroughs and Changing Healthcare

We’re living in amazing times. Who would have thought just a few years ago that you could see your doctor on your phone without having to go to the office? That’s just the beginning of how tech is changing the landscape in healthcare.

Today, researchers are 3D printing organs, monitoring patient conditions remotely, creating smart pills that can be controlled by smartphones, and using artificial intelligence to detect breast cancer. More than $26 billion has been invested in healthcare tech funding in Q1 2021 alone.

Here are some of the biggest advances in medicine made possible by emerging technology.

Telehealth

One of the biggest changes over the past year has been the public embracing telehealth and virtual doctor visits.

Patient use of telemedicine was already up 33% from 2019 to 2020, but the COVID pandemic skyrocketed the use of virtual doctor visits. More than 80% of patients say they will be taking advantage of telehealth in the future.

Advanced diagnostic tools are being deployed along with telehealth to provide higher quality healthcare in rural and under-served areas. For example, a rural hospital may not have specialists living in the local area, but technology provides a way for remote consultations and diagnosis.

Wearables

Wearables are making an impact, too. Continuous remote patient monitoring (CRPM) allows healthcare providers to monitor a patient's vital signs in real-time.

Nursing homes can monitor dozens of residents from a single screen without having to disrupt patients. This is especially important for patients with chronic conditions. CRPM is recognizing exacerbations more promptly and reducing trips to the ER.

Wearable CRPM devices monitor blood oxygen levels, temperature, blood pressure, and more. For patients dealing with COPD, wearables have significantly improved patient compliance.

Robotic Surgeries

Robotic surgery is being used commonly for minimally invasive procedures. Surgeons can perform complex procedures with tighter precision. Already, millions of surgeries have been performed using robotics to assist doctors with everything from biopsies to spinal fusion surgery.

Research is now focusing on robotics, which isn’t just used as an extension of a surgeon’s arm but can literally be placed inside the body with just a tiny incision and treat colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and more.

3D Printing

Scientists are now 3D printing medical devices. New devices can be created as rapid prototypes for testing before manufacturing. Doctors are also using 3D printing for the creation of custom artificial limbs, orthotics, and more.

New research is aimed at bioprinting and tissue engineering to create new tissues, blood vessels, and even organs on demand.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more common in healthcare to aid in detection and recognition.

Google Health and Deep Mind used AI and machine learning (ML) to analyze mammograms and recognize patterns indicating breast cancer. In tests, the AI-enhanced models reduced the number of false negatives by more than 9% and outperformed human radiologists in detection by more than 11%.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are making big changes to training programs. Doctors are using VR and AR tools to simulate surgery. One study published in the Harvard Business Review revealed that surgeons trained using VR tools received more than double the performance reviews of others trained in traditional methods.

AI and AR-enhanced tools are being used that can scan a patient’s body and make their veins visible to doctors and nurses. This can help make blood draws or IV insertions more efficient. VR headsets showing relaxing simulations are being used to ease chronic pain, and make giving birth less painful. Augmented reality is being used to create holographic visualizations of a patient’s anatomy that floats over patients during treatments to help doctors treat cardiac arrhythmias.

Genomic Medicine

Research has created numerous breakthroughs from the identification of a patient’s causative gene mutation thanks to the Human Genome Project. Diagnostic labs and research facilities are using what they have learned to diagnose and discover the cause behind many different diseases.

Genome editing holds promise for creating gene-modification therapies to treat conditions. Hundreds of clinical trials are testing gene therapy to try to produce new treatments.

Nanotechnology

For years, nanotech has been the domain of science fiction. Today, we are on the cusp of using nanoparticles and even nanodevices to deliver targeted drug delivery for diseases such as cancer treatments.

MIT researchers have developed a pill with nanoparticles embedded that can be controlled wirelessly and release drugs on command from a smartphone.

Wireless Brain Sensors

Speaking of wireless technology, scientists have dreamed up a device to treat brain disorders. Bioresorbable electronics can be placed inside the brain to monitor temperature, pressure, and activity. When they are no longer needed, the sensor can dissolve, which eliminates the need for additional surgery to remove it.

This is a guest blog entry.

Unknown Tips You Should Not Forget to Consider When Choosing a Support Product

If you or you have someone suffering from PCI or other related pathologies, it is essential to think of buying a support product. Children or adults with special needs must have these support machines or equipment to help them in their daily activities. There are different types of support machines according to the condition of the child or person. However, you have to be keen when buying such products. Number one; ensure that you have the information of such products in mind. So many local stores and online stores such as Rehagirona offer various products that you can choose from. If you are having challenges finding such products, then you have to think of the following factors.

1. Type Of Supporting Machine Needed

As mentioned above, there is a different type of support equipment being sold in the market. This is because there are they are meant to help people with different conditions. Strollers, wheelchairs, positioning systems, indoor chairs, and mobility equipment are examples of the systems you will find in the market. Determining the condition you have will help you in identifying the machine that will offer the best support.

2. Talk To A Specialist

Seeking advice from a specialist is essential. A specialist can tell you the best product to buy according to the condition you are suffering from. Sometimes, you can identify the problem you have but cannot tell the best products to support it. These specialists have been in the industry for a long time to tell you the best product. All you need is to work with a specialist that understands your medical history and what you are suffering from at the moment.

3. The Cost Of The Product

Now that you have the picture of the product you are looking for, it is important to know how much you need to find it. According to the increase in demand for support products, many companies are manufacturing them. Therefore, the price of these machines will differ according to the quality and the ability. Find out from different shops and know how much they are selling the product. There are shops selling quality equipment at an affordable price.

4. Find The Best Supplier

One of the things that will make you get the best product is finding a good supplier. As mentioned above, these products are being produced by thousands of companies. These companies are collaborating with specific suppliers to distribute their products. In this case, if you want to get the best product, you have to do more research about the reputation of the supplier. A good supplier will always work with a good manufacturing company.

5. Find The Products From Health Centers

Buying the support products from health centers is important because you are going for verified products. In addition, when receiving treatment in such places, you can be provided with options of getting the products in the same place.

Getting such equipment can be easy when you consider the above statements or points. The good thing is finding out how the equipment will help you and how to operate it. Find more information from sites like Rehagirona, and see most of the verified products used by anyone with special needs. Age can be a great factor when you want to get the best results from the support product.

This is a guest blog entry.

Types of Damages in a Personal Injury Accident

After being injured due to someone else’s negligent action, you might be thinking about filing a lawsuit against the other party to recover compensation. In personal injury cases, this compensation is referred to as damages. You have been experiencing first-hand the result of the accident and trying to recover your health while worrying about your financial situation and are ready to talk to a personal injury attorney about your case and the amount of damages it may be possible to recover. During the consultation, your lawyer may bring out terms such as economic, non-economic, or punitive damages. However, you may be feeling confused as to what these are and how they differ from each other.

Why are damages awarded?

The law describes damages as an amount intended to compensate the plaintiff for their losses and restore this individual to the same situation in which they found themselves before the accident and its accompanying injury.

Damages may be awarded in court, or they may be received through a settlement or mediation where both parties agree on a satisfactory amount after negotiating each item. Cases that are tried in court result in either the judge or jury calculating how much the plaintiff should be awarded, based on all evidence presented during the trial.

What are economic damages?

Economic damages are easy to calculate and attach a monetary value to. They start with medical expenses that arise as a result of the injury. Depending on the extent and severity of the injury, these may include hospitalization, ambulance rides, surgery, rehabilitation, doctor’s visits, prescription medication, medical devices, and more. If the injuries have not yet reached the point of maximum expected recovery, economic damages will also include future medical expenses.

If the injury prevents you from working, economic damages will include the wages you have lost now and in the future, as well as the cost to fix your car or replace it if you were in a car accident or other property that might have gotten damaged in different types of accidents.

What are non-economic damages?

Non-economic damages are much harder to quantify and include such items as pain and suffering and emotional distress. These items are related to how you feel after the accident and injury and how these feelings and emotions affect your life. The more severe the injury and the longer the time it will take you to recover from it, the higher the amount of non-economic damages you might be awarded.

What are punitive damages?

Punitive damages are not awarded in all personal injury cases. As their name implies, they are meant to punish the defendant for their extremely negligent actions that lead to the accident and injuries. Their purpose is to punish the person who caused your injuries, set an example to others, and discourage them from acting the same way. A judge or jury decides these.

Understanding every item that may be included in your damages and assigning value to each is best left to an experienced personal injury attorney. Attorney Timothy J. Ryan recommends that you start by setting up an initial consultation and talk to your lawyer about your case.
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Image via Pixabay

This is a guest blog entry.

What should I do if I’m hurt in an accident?

When a person is injured in an accident, they will have to deal with a lot of pain, multiple doctor’s appointments, and lost wages from all the time they will miss from work. There are some injuries that might be chronic and it is not uncommon for a person to lose partial function of one of their limbs or an organ in their body. Although an accident can be very upsetting, there are certain steps you can take to make your medical treatments and recovery go smoothly.

What to do When an Accident Happens

Getting into an accident is upsetting, and it can be very difficult to think clearly when it happens. However, if you are calm and you pay attention to detail, you will have a better chance of medical recovery and you will have a better experience with the insurance company.

When you have an accident, you should call 911 right away, and you should wait for them to arrive. Be sure to ask the law enforcement officer for a copy of the accident report. Most attorneys will tell you not to admit to guilt, even if you think the accident was your fault, because there may be circumstances of which you are unaware.

You should take pictures of the cars involved in the accident and of any injuries that you may have. You should also take pictures of things like track marks on the road and any car parts that are scattered about.

Be sure to get the names and numbers of any witnesses who saw the accident. You should also exchange contact information with the other drivers involved.

Seek Medical Care

If EMTs arrived at the scene of the accident and advised you to go to the hospital, you should go. However, you should also let them treat you at the scene if they need to.

It is a good idea to follow the doctor’s orders and make sure that you take all of the treatments you are advised to take. If you need physical therapy, you should try to attend every single appointment. If you do not, an insurance company may try to blame you if your injuries are slow to heal.

You should save a copy of every doctor bill that you receive. You should also save the receipts for medications and for any extra services you may need due to your accident.

Call Your Insurance Company

Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to auto insurance. This means that a driver’s own insurance company will pay for their accident-related bills no matter who is responsible for a crash. Hence, you should call your own insurance company as soon as you possibly can

Once you have provided them with all the paperwork that you collected, they will decide to accept or deny your claim. Before you accept the claim, it is a good idea to talk with an attorney.

Choosing a Lawyer

The attorney you choose should have years of experience with personal injury law in the state of Florida. They should have enough time to focus on your case, so be sure to ask how long they will have to devote to your case per week. They should be able to provide you with references of clients who have worked with them in the past.

A car accident can be terrifying, and it can cause serious injury. If you currently have a claim, you should read more about personal injury law.

Authoritative Sources:

https://www.thehartford.com/aarp/car-insurance/no-fault-insurance

https://pixabay.com/photos/crash-car-car-crash-accident-1308575/

This is a guest blog entry.

Top 5 situations when you should be using an Ankle Brace

Generally, the ankle is more prone to natural wear and tear. One can suffer from a lot of injuries that can cause great ankle pain. There are different types of ankle pain and it can be dealt with by treating it with care. It is important to understand the structure of the ankle and treat it in a particular way.

• Provides support

An ankle brace is generally designed that helps to provide support to relieve the pain with an associated sprain for ankle instability. It also helps to prevent injury and it is quite a big support to the injured person during any kind of movement. It offers extra support and it reduces a bad impact on the injured part of the leg. 

• Situations for using a brace

In case of an ankle injury, there are certain situations according to which a person needs to wear an ankle brace. Some of the common situations are symptoms for which one can use an ankle brace are-

• Swelling

If there is any kind of swelling in the ankle, you can take care of it by wearing an ankle support. It keeps the pain in check and you can also visit the doctor and get it checked if the swelling persists for more than a few hours. 

• Acute pain

The conditions are of acute pain in an injured person. It can lead to a lot of trouble while walking. This is where an ankle brace can come to help give the pain and does not deteriorate the situation for the time being.

• Bruise

Any kind of bruise or changes in the ankle area can be treated by wearing ankle support equipment. You need to take care that the ankle supports this fitting properly and it is helping to reduce the swelling.

• Injury

Any sort of accident or injury can lead to troubles and the ankle area. Generally, if there is an inability to move freely, one can wear an ankle brace. It helps to reduce stiffness in that part of the body and one can recover by giving an ample amount of rest. 

• Tenderness

Tenderness or the inability of the ankle to carry the bodyweight is one of the other symptoms that can lead to serious ankle injuries. It can lead to a lot of trouble so by wearing an ankle brace, you can reduce the pain and get yourself some help and comfort.

Available online

An ankle brace is available online and it has the benefits of wearing it for the injured person. It gives instant relief to the person and it can be considered as a good ankle support product. It can help you to recover fast and it works as good support at a reasonable price. If you are looking out for stable and comfortable ankle support you can try them out online and check out the features before buying them. It can fit the person perfectly and it is designed especially for any sort of injury or sprains. If you can start wearing them on a regular basis, you can prevent yourself from further damage.  

This is a guest blog entry.

How to choose the right Knee brace?

There are different knee supports available for different knee conditions. For instance, athletes stricken by moderate knee joint pain or the ones who have a susceptible knee put on a hinged brace designed to relieve joint ache and accurate instability. Some of the knee braces are made specifically for skiers, with a ski deflectors present within the hinge to foresee the ski or covering from jerking on the hinge.

Various sorts consist of

• Ligament knee brace

Ligament knee braces are designed to be very mild for the athletes who no longer need to be burdened with the greater weight of a heavy brace and maybe as good as robust molded braces. The ligament accident is one of the most common injuries in any recreation such as torn knee ligaments or knee sprains. A twist or a bad alignment from the knee to ankle can cause a torn ACL.

• Arthritis knee braces

For those stricken by arthritis inside the knees, a few knee braces are designed only for them. Everyone desires to be capable of doing ordinary activities, and arthritis patients can discover excellent knee braces created only for them. Wearing an arthritis knee brace regularly will increase the potential to carry out each day's capabilities and reduce aches from day to day, which isn't any small feat.

• Elastic knee brace

Elastic knee braces are bendable items that may be worn across the knee and the encompassing area. They are mild and cleanable and do not retain moisture and warmth, so condensation isn't always an issue. A type of different strap and knee band offers an easy option for aches and discomfort. Similar items consist of compression braces, neoprene sleeves, and different slip-on and the stretchable braces.

• Knee immobilizer

For a greater extreme circumstances, you could require a knee immobilizer, which is usually worn post-trauma or post-surgery. This can function with a couple of lock and strap closures and cowl an extensive part of the leg. Some items in this class are more adjustable than others, however, but all provide a relaxed solution to save the knee from flexing.

• Hinged knee brace

Such braces function as polycentric hinges that offer lateral and medial help. For MCL, ACL, or the LCL instabilities, a mechanical brace is probably required. This additionally has a hinged layout and courses the tibia so motion does not similarly harm the knee. It provides help after harm or fixing surgeries. The knee cage is any other product with a hinged layout that is perfect for controlling hyperextension.

To conclude

There are lots of knee braces to be used and the kind you want relies upon your circumstance and degree of discomfort. Braces are usually less expensive state-of-the-art scientific apparatuses that can supply crucial help for the precise circumstance. Some braces can be tried on and purchased stores, however, a wide variety can be found on scientific product websites. Reputable websites promote the best merchandise from well-known companies. The door-to-door shipping and online ordering provides comfort to the manner of acquiring a brace.

This is a guest blog entry.

What is Mental Health?

The concept of mental health is multifaceted and deals with our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is a state of mind that affects how we think, act, and feel. It is also an indicator of how well we can handle stress, relate to others, and our ability to make healthy choices in our everyday lives. According to synergy mental wellness, being in a good state of mental health is essential to living a productive and happy lifestyle.

However, mental health can take a turn for the worse which is caused by various underlying factors in a person’s life. These issues range from simple to complex depending on the individual’s particular circumstances. In which case, if you or someone you know is affected by deteriorating mental health, it is highly advisable to seek help and guidance from a professional health expert, counselor, or therapist that specializes in mental and behavioral health. 

Mental Health Disorders and Negative Effects

Developing a mental health condition is often the result of multiple factors, including genetics, social environment, and lifestyle choices. A very stressful job, for example, can make people more susceptible to a mental health disorder as do traumatic life events. At the neuroscience level, biochemical processes and neural pathways in the brain also play a significant role in someone’s mental state. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, the most common mental health disorders are but are not limited to: 

• Anxiety Disorders
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Depression
• Dissociative Disorders
• Eating Disorders
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• Psychosis
• Schizoaffective Disorder
• Schizophrenia

A deteriorating state of mental health ought to be taken seriously and followed up with proper medical treatment. A mental health disorder can make a person feel miserable and can cause problems in various areas of their daily lives such as in school, at work, and in relationships. In most cases, the good news is that negative mental health symptoms can be managed with a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

Mental Health Evaluations

To determine a diagnosis most mental health professionals conduct:

Physical Exams: A doctor will try to exclude physical problems that could cause symptoms.

Lab tests: Tests may include testing thyroid function and screening for alcohol and drugs.

Psychological evaluations:  A doctor or mental health professional talks to the patient about the symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns they are experiencing.

Mental Health Treatments

There are many essential ways to improve a person’s state of mind such as medication prescribed by a medical professional, counseling, therapy, and social support. Therapy, for example, can take several forms, from learning how to put your mind at ease to reworking your thinking and behavioral patterns. Encouragement and social support from family and friends are also a major help in making a big difference. 

When to Consult with a Medical Professional

If you or someone you know is displaying signs or symptoms of an underlying mental health disorder, it is highly recommended to see a doctor right away. Mental illnesses and disorders usually don’t improve on their own, and if left untreated, a person’s mental state can worsen over time and that could be more difficult to correct.

Image Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-gray-tank-top-3812757/

How do I bring a personal injury claim?

There are about as many different kinds of personal injury cases as there are various ways to get injured. Personal injury law includes a wide range of occurrences, from vehicle accidents to slip and falls. As a result, no two cases follow the same course or timeframe. A lot relies on the severity of the injuries, the clarity of specific problems, the most important being who was to blame, and whether or not an insurance policy covers the occurrence.

Check To See if an Insurance Policy Covers the Incident

If you've been hurt and believe someone else is to blame, you should see if that individual has insurance that will pay any injury claims you file. Questions to ask include: Is the other party's insurance valid after a vehicle accident?; Who owns the land, and do they have liability insurance if you're injured in a slip and fall?

This is crucial because it determines whether you will collect any damages awarded to you by a jury during a personal injury lawsuit. Having a judgment in your favor is one thing; collecting on that judgment is another, and the tale may not end well if the defendant lacks adequate insurance coverage and has few assets. If you weren't severely injured or if the cause of the accident isn't apparent, or you have health insurance, then you might want to think carefully about suing someone who doesn't have insurance.

If, on the other hand, your injuries are severe and it's apparent that the other party is to blame for the underlying accident, you should continue regardless of whether or not your injuries are covered by insurance. Allow them to work out the specifics.

Determine Whether or Not to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

Even in the simplest of situations, when your injuries are minor, and you're confident you'll be able to resolve your case on your own, it's usually preferable to consult with a personal injury attorney at least once. It is critical to note that speaking with an attorney does not imply hiring one. Most personal injury attorneys will gladly offer you a free first consultation during which they will review the merits of your case and layout your legal alternatives.

Most personal injury claims are handled on a contingency basis. The attorney then charges a fee based on an agreed-upon percentage of the settlement or judgment. Hiring an attorney to advocate for you may be worthwhile depending on the amount of money at stake, the complexity of the legal issues in your case, and how much of a fight the opposing side is willing to put up.

Determine Whether to File (or Not to File) a Lawsuit

Many personal injury lawsuits settle before going to trial, and many of them are settled before a civil complaint is filed. There are alternatives to going to court and filing a lawsuit to obtain compensation for an accident. If you have insurance, you can file a third-party claim against the at-fault person's insurance company.

You'd start by obtaining the name and policy number of the other person's insurance provider. Then send the provider a notice of claim that includes their client’s information, your information, the date of the accident, and a notification letter in which you declare that you were injured and wish to make a claim. Don't get into specifics at this point. This will be addressed later in settlement negotiations and documents such as the demand letter.

Of course, it is possible that your insurance claim is denied, or the settlement discussions fail. In that case, you can still initiate a personal injury lawsuit by filing a complaint in your state civil court's local branch. It is critical to remember your state's personal injury statute of limitations. It establishes a limited time for filing a lawsuit following an accident. Therefore it's crucial to understand and file your lawsuit before time expires. Visit the website for more information.

Image via Pixabay

This is a guest blog entry.

What You Must Look For While Purchasing First Aid Kits

Every household should have a handy first aid kit. One that’s easy to access and has everything you might need if you’re in an emergency. It takes a lot of effort to build perfect first aid kits, so it’s recommended to buy a pre-built kit, rather than building your own. 

Even while buying pre-made first aid kits, you should look for proper equipment and medical supplies. Don't worry! We are here to help you out. Below is what you must look for while purchasing first aid kits. 

First aid manual

Having a first aid manual in your first aid kit is an absolute necessity. In an emergency, you may not remember the right steps to take, and if you’re someone who hasn’t recently completed first aid training, this manual will guide you through the process. 

A first aid manual prepares everyone for the worst situations, and can be a life-saving guide during an emergency.

Triangular bandages & disposable gloves 

Triangular bandages are oversized cotton bandaids that are often used by people as a sling. These bandages prove useful when someone is experiencing soft tissue damage or a broken bone. 

It is an absolute necessity to wear disposable gloves while tending open wounds as they are the risk of infection. You wouldn't want to infect your wound or someone else’s. Therefore, you should keep around a pair or two of disposable gloves at all times in your kit.

Antiseptic solution & combine bandages

As mentioned above, getting a wound infected should be prevented at all costs. Antiseptic solutions help with just that; it is used on wounds, cuts, and grazes. Gently putting the solution on your wounds and cuts disinfects the area.

Combine bandages are made of thick material, and are used to stop blood loss and prevent infection or the wound being exposed. 

Saline

Saline is another step to clean the wounds before you apply a bandage. It helps in rinsing cuts, grazes, and wounds to keep the area clean. 

Eyewash & cold pack

It is normal for people to get dust in their eyes or any other material, especially when it's windy outside. An eyewash helps in clearing any such material out of your eye. It also soothes the pain if you encounter any eye redness or irritation.

A cold pack is used to relieve swelling or muscle pain at times. People also experience sunburns by being in the sun for too long during summers; a cold pack can help with sunburns and usual burns.

Tweezers & scissors

Tweezers need to be in the first aid kit as they help in removing any material that might have gotten stuck in your skin, such as splinters or glass. Tweezers are the most effective way to do that as they are small and precise.

Scissors come in handy when you need to cut bandages or medical tape. Therefore, every first aid box should have tweezers as well as scissors.

Notepad & pen

While you may think there is no reason to keep a notepad in your First Aid Kits, you are wrong. If you are someone who keeps a bunch of medicine in their first aid box, you should keep a notepad that contains the medicine’s name and use.

Also, first aid is often used as a temporary fix till you get proper medical help. In such cases, having a notepad around allows you to note down all the necessary details the doctor might need.

That was all! Now you know what to look out for when building or buying your own first aid kit. We recommend buying a pre-prepared kit from a medical supply store or an Aero first aid kit from Aero Healthcare.

This is a guest blog entry.

4 Tips for Changing Your Wellness Routine As You Age

Getting older is an inevitable but unpleasant experience. While you may not be able to do anything about your age, you can ensure that you maintain good wellness habits throughout your life. Of course, individuals should alter and adjust their lifestyles to suit their evolving physical and mental situations. Given that fact, today we’ll review some key tips that health-conscious people can use to change their fitness routine as they age. Check it out here: 

Identify New Priorities

It’s unreasonable to think that your health priorities in your 20s will remain the same over the next fifty years. The truth is that individuals at different stages of life face different challenges and risk factors. While building muscle may be a big part of your fitness journey in your youth, you may find you need to focus more on losing weight in middle age. Of course, men and women experience the aging process differently as well. And your personal situation can have a big influence on how you take care of yourself. Single people will likely have different health concerns than individuals with children. 

Talk to a Doctor

One of the best ways to ensure you’re always ahead of the health game (so to speak) is to schedule regular appointments with your doctor. Not only can doctors provide useful advice, but they can also offer treatment options for many common conditions. Plus, they can answer any questions you may have. Whether you’re a 30-year-old woman who wants to know more about a fimbrioplasty procedure, or a 60-year-old man with chronic foot pain, your doctor will be able to give you helpful information on just about any medical subject. 

Collaborate

Sticking to any wellness routine can be a challenge. Doing so all on your own can be particularly difficult. If you’re thinking about switching up your fitness regimen, then consider collaborating with others. Exercising with friends and family members can be a fun way to try out new physical activities. As can joining a fitness class! You may also decide to speak with other health-conscious people about their favorite healthy recipes and restaurants. Variety is the spice of life after all.

Personalize It

So many people seek to follow cookie-cutter diet and exercise plans. While that may work for some, most people prefer to develop wellness habits that actually suit them. As such, don’t be afraid to include some of your favorite activities, foods, and practices within your wellness routine. The long-term benefits of staying healthy are tremendous, so make it a priority to personalize your wellness regimen as much as you need to!

This is a guest blog entry.

Top 3 Best Fluoride Water Filters

Water is important for life. It is therefore essential to keep it free of toxic substances. One of the most prevalent elements found in municipal and city water sources is fluoride.

To eliminate this, use a water filter that controls the quantity of fluoride in your drinking water. A fluoride water filtration system removes fluoride from the water, ensuring better health. This blog contains a list of the 3 best fluoride water filters.

Best Fluoride Water Filters
 

Home Master RO Fluoride Water Filter System

This is the overall best filtration system. If your tap water quality isn't up to the mark, the Home Master TMAFC Artesian Under-sink RO water filtration system is a permanent option for purifying your water. It purifies the water without eliminating essential minerals.

You can have as much water as you need, thanks to its excellent flow rate. All chloramines, chemicals, heavy metals, dissolved solids, and other pollutants are filtered out to almost 99%. This system's water is clean and crisp.

Pros

• Filters are work very well for 2,000 gallons
•  Eliminates chemicals, heavy metals, impurities, and more
• Restores natural magnesium and calcium minerals
• High-flow system
  

Cons                                                                                     

• It takes up a lot of room underneath your sink.

Aquagear Fluoride Water Filter Pitcher
This is the best fluoride water filter system if you don’t have a big budget. With this system, you can get pure water, free from any impurities. You will only be able to make 6 liters at a time, though.

The water tastes great and is free of lead, fluoride, chlorine, mercury, and other toxins. The filter only has to be replaced every 150 gallons despite eliminating so many impurities. However, this is the best water filtration system that you get from a small investment.

It is surely a value for money! Check Latest Price

Pros

• Very Affordable and eliminates fluoride effectively
• Every filter is good for 150 gallons
• Removes mercury, lead, chromium, and many more contaminants
•  Lifetime guarantee

Cons

• Can make only 6 liters water at a time

Big Berkey Fluoride Water Filter

When you require more than a pitcher of clean water but don't want to install an under-sink system, you will need a large-capacity countertop filter. With a stainless-steel countertop water filtration system that can hold 2.25 gallons of filtered water, the Big Berkey BK4X2 does the work here.

Two fluoride-specific filters are incorporated for optimum fluoride removal, reducing total fluoride in your water by up to 95%. The system's primary filters each last 3,000 gallons, which is outstanding by any standard.

Cysts, parasites, germs, herbicides, pesticides, VOCs, radon 222, nitrates, and just much any other form of contamination are removed. Only the essential minerals are left behind. The outcome is clean, pleasant water that can beat all others in a taste test. This is a premium range system, but the price is worth what it provides.

Pros

• Has the capacity to Hold 2.25 gallons of water
• Filters great for 3,000 gallons each
• Eliminates everything but beneficial minerals
• Nesting design makes it smaller when not in use

Cons
•    Very expensive water purifying system

This is a guest blog entry.

6 Tips to Increase your Energy and live a Healthier, Happier, more productive Life

Do you feel lethargic most mornings? Do you rely on caffeinated beverages to help power you through the day? If yes, it's time to stop relying on these quick fixes and develop an energy management plan. Getting started could seem a little scary at first, but once you notice the benefits of a healthier, happier and more productive lifestyle you'll be energized to keep going.

It is important to remember that our energy is a limited resource, just like our money in a bank account. Everyday we start with a certain amount to spend, which depends from person to person based on factors, such as sleep, stress levels, medical conditions, age, and lifestyle. Throughout the day, we perform multiple activities, which can be compared with transactions, to withdraw energy from and deposit energy into your account. It is true that we may not always have control over activities that consume our energy, we can take steps to deposit more energy into our accounts. We will now look at some important tips that can help you increase your energy to live a healthier, happier, more productive life.

Eat nourishing food

As you might have already guessed, nourishing food is very important for our well-being. According to researchers, a balanced diet that is high in vegetables and fruits, lean protein, whole grains and low-fat dairy is what we need for optimal energy. So it is true to some extent, we are what we eat. It is important to consume a variety of foods from different food groups so we can get a range of nutrients to energize us throughout the day. Opt for fresh vegetables and fruits and vegetables. Choose a healthy protein source, such as fish and legumes. Try to consume 3 ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, pasta or rice. If this sounds a little too much or you think you won’t have the time for all this because you are already too busy, you should look for an alternate source, such as Spirulina. Spirulina has many health benefits and contains all the essential vitamins and nutrients that will help you lead a healthier and energetic lifestyle.

Get seven to eight hours of sleep at night

A lot of people need to work on this. Getting enough sleep is a very important and a very healthy habit. Most of us already know that we need at least seven hours of sleep every night, so what prevents us from getting it? Work on the things that you think are your biggest sleep disruptors. Remember that sleep deprivation can cause serious health problems and also have a negative impact on our mood, motivation, energy and stress levels. Start prioritizing sleep in order to set yourself up for a productive, energized day.

Keep company with good people

Take some time out to spend it with the people you enjoy being around. A good connection with those who radiate positivity and have similar interests will energize and excite you. On the other hand, people who you can’t relate to or people who complain often, make poor choices or have negative outlooks will only drain your energy account. Carefully choose the company you keep.
Avoid news overdose

News can help us stay connected to what's happening around the world and it can be entertaining, educational, and even uplifting. Unfortunately, you might agree, the news frequently carries with it stories of suffering. Frequently reading about such stories can distort our view of the world and cause us to focus on our worst fears instead of noticing the good that surrounds us. We understand that it is not possible to avoid all such stories altogether, but we can try to minimize our exposure whenever possible, especially during times of trouble, struggle and unhappiness.

Get regular exercise

We often find ourselves feeling sluggish halfway through the day and often get tired by performing simple everyday duties, such as household chores and grocery shopping. According to research, we should get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week. It doesn’t matter what you believe, this will add to your energy account instead of subtracting from it. Exercise strengthens our muscles, boosts endurance and helps relieve stress and tension. This helps us to do more work efficiently during other activities and physical tasks.

Do something meaningful everyday

It is important to remember the things that you feel passionate about. You may have a special talent that you'd like to share with others or to practice more often. Take some time out to do something you enjoy every day, even if it's something as simple as listening to your favoarite music or cooking a healthy meal. Working on the things that matter the most to us helps bring out the best in us, by utilizing our energy.

This is a guest blog entry.

4 Facts about Medical Billing and Coding You Never Knew

While a prevalent and crucial set of career roles within the medical industry, healthcare information specialists like medical billing and coding professionals are not well known to the outside world. For their function, their job perks, and even the other things that are expected of them in their role, medical billing and coding specialists can be a mystery to many people who do not have intimate knowledge of the healthcare industry. So, if you’re one of the many who want to know more about these two professions, stay tuned! There’s more to learn right here, with four facts you may have never known.

Fact #1: Medical Billing and Coding are Separate Jobs

While they are often mentioned together and are, in fact, trained or categorized under the same wide umbrella, medical billing and medical coding are different. Together, they’re known as medical records and health information specialists, but the difference lies in what specific information they’re meant to manage.

Medical billing, as the name implies, focuses on the back end of transactional medicine: filing insurance claims, verifying patients’ information, and even appealing claims to make sure that healthcare facilities are paid for services rendered. Whether that payment comes from the insurance companies or from the patients themselves, this whole ecosystem of information is built on privacy and accuracy. The former is regulated for patients’ and providers’ protection, especially from social engineering and fraud, while the latter is ensured because it means the difference, at times, between full coverage and none at all. When you have been a patient dependent on said insurance coverage, you can imagine for yourself how nerve-wracking it might be to receive the wrong bill, or a bill that looks right, but bills a patient way more than they need to be paying. As a medical billing specialist, it’s your job to make sure that this doesn’t happen, and that all three parties (the patient, the provider, and the insuring entity) are made whole at the end of the day.

Medical coding, on the other hand, doesn’t deal with the billing side, but rather focuses on the organization and accuracy of treatments documented, as well as documentation of other things, like patient conditions, that can affect treatment and are reproduced not only in billing — but also on a medical report. Just like a medical billing professional, a coder in the healthcare industry is charged with the burden of accuracy: if a code is incorrectly used, it means that someone may be wrongly paying thousands of dollars out of pocket or receiving an inappropriate treatment. Utilization of coding protocols, like the ICD-10, makes coding a part of a huge standardized system that makes the speed and efficiency of modern medicine possible.

Fact #2: You Can Work Anywhere You Like, Anytime You Like

If you’re looking for an office job, something that has a steady 9 to 5, you might see medical billing and coding as professions that suit you. However, if you’re looking to work from home, choose hours that you want, or even travel for work — well, you’re still looking in the right place. Along with being a steady day job, medical billing and coding specialists can also find employers that allow remote work, which is very common. If you take on a career in the field, you may even be given the option to work hours of your choice — because of how independent the work is, it’s not imperative to work according to someone else’s needs, as long as a certain number of hours is met per week. In addition to all this, there are positions as medical coders or billing specialists that take a person traveling from city to city, much like traveling nurses do. In any case, no matter what lifestyle you’re trying to maintain, these two jobs are good options — because they offer stability to those who want it, and offer freedom to those looking for that instead. It’s a versatile career path, to say the least!

Fact #3: You Can Fast Track to the Medical Job You Want

Like any other industry, it helps when you have education and/or experience. But it’s no secret that doctors require years of school on top of a four-year degree. Meanwhile, nursing also has some steep requirements in a lot of fields. But with medical billing and coding, your profession is easily accessible: you can get professional training for your chosen career in as little as 11 months in some medical billing and coding programs. On top of that, when you’ve received your training and certification, you have a job that possesses upward mobility. When you continue to hone your skill set on the job as a coder or billing specialist, you can eventually get the experience you need to apply for other medical professions as well, with a basis of knowledge that can only improve your candidacy overall.

Fact #4: You’ll Feel Good About Your Work

Medical industry professionals of any kind are in a unique position to help people in need. Although you may not be treating the sick and injured with your own two hands, you’re a crucial part of the healthcare industry. Your work in medical billing and coding can mean the difference between someone paying way too much for important care, or them receiving the best possible treatment with reasonable coverage. However you decide to contribute and be a part of the industry, just remember: you make a difference just by doing your job! If you’re looking to get started, find out how you can facilitate the healing process in just 11 months, right here at Ultimate Medical Academy.

This is a blog entry by David Young.

How Can You Decide If Your Parents Need Specialized Home Care?

Credit: Vlad Sargu Via Unsplash

One of the trickiest parts of growing up is watching your parents grow older and the vulnerability of them needing on-going support. It seems like time passed in the blink of an eye. Once upon a time, your parents were pushing you around in a stroller. The next thing you know, you are helping them move around in their wheelchair.

Your parents have most likely helped you through thick and thin, and it is time to do the same for them. Realizing that your parents need retirement or specialized care home does not mean you do not care about them and want to give up the responsibility. It is simply accepting life as is and moving forward. Sometimes it may be challenging to support your parents 24/7, but you must figure out how they can remain safe, what their care needs are, and what the best environment is to meet these needs. 

Here are some ways you can decide if your parents need retirement home care.

Explore Your Nursing Home Options

Before you go ahead and talk to your parents, identify the extent of their needs and figure out what the potential home options are. If you find the home beforehand, you can provide your parents with all the information they need. Call a couple of places and find out all of their services, care levels, and costs, if required. Retirement homes such as Sagecare offer specialized care for seniors with dementia, and will be able to guide you through the entire process.

If you discuss your concerns with the home, they will give you proper advice and inform you if they think your parents need to move to an assisted facility, memory support care, or even independent living. If they have Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, they need regular care because memory loss can affect people in different ways. It is a good option to consider places like Sagecare, where there is high staffing to resident ratio, enabling them to provide constant care.

 Credit: StartupStockPhotos Via Pixabay

Have “The Talk” with Your Parents

Remember when you were a teenager, and your parents had to give you “the talk” about the birds and the bees? You probably remember it being awkward. But this talk is different. It is still a challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be weird.

Sit down with your parents and introduce the nursing home idea. Tell them why you think they need to become residents of a care facility. Do not make the decision and drop your parents off there. Ask for their opinion and if they disagree, try to explain your point of view. Some parents may agree right away, while others may get disheartened and have a tough time accepting it. Whatever the possible reaction is, you need to do your best as their child. Involving your parent into the process and identifying the unmet needs, eases the transition as they can relate to your anxiety and need for providing care successfully for them. 

 Credit: Kampus Production Via Pexels

Observe Every Move

One of the best ways to figure out if your parents need senior care is by observing their actions. If you are not around to see what problems they may be facing, you might not be aware that they need help or what kind of help.

Please note whether they can eat properly, walk around without help, and take the proper medication on time. If your parents are struggling to perform daily tasks, are behaving differently, or need reminders to take medication, they might require help. Assisted living can provide round-the-clock comprehensive care.

The final decision to go ahead and move your parents to a retirement home can be a daunting task. But, if you choose the right place, your mind will be at ease, and your parents will be safe too.

This is a guest blog entry.

Signs That You Need Braces

The use of braces is common for both children and adults. With the help of this dental procedure, crooked teeth can get fixed. Apart from the regular braces with wires, you can also consider the use of Invisalign braces. Regency House Dental, a private dental clinic in Cheltenham for over two decades, suggest this procedure. Once you see the signs that braces are necessary, consider using them.
 

Use of braces among children
 

Most parents have their children use braces to fix the problem at a young age. It’s better to start young while the issues are still easy to solve. The problem is that it might be difficult to tell if children need braces. When they have crooked or crowded teeth, they might still be baby teeth. There’s no need to do anything about the problem yet. However, apart from these signs, you can also check if your children are breathing through the mouth. If so, it can be due to a dental problem.
 

Another sign is when you hear their jaw clicking or making other sounds. Children biting their tongue or thumb sucking might also have dental problems that braces can fix. If you notice these problems, go to the dentist and ask for recommendations.
 

Braces for adults
 

Apart from children, adults might also need to use braces. Adult braces are becoming more common these days, and there are positive results. Crooked and crowded teeth are the primary reasons. You may also need them if you have difficulty flossing in between the teeth or you keep cutting your tongue because of your teeth.
 

When you have difficulty closing your mouth or pronouncing certain sounds because of your teeth’s position, braces can also solve them. Notice your jaw when chewing or upon waking up in the morning. If you notice weird noises, you can consider using braces. Otherwise, there will be stress or fatigue on your jawline. 

Seeing a dentist
 

Children should start seeing a dentist for the first time on or before the age of seven. At this point, the dentist can determine if braces are necessary. It’s better to identify the problems sooner. The best age to start braces differs from one person to another. The treatment should be between the ages of 9 and 14. These are the ages when they begin to form their permanent teeth. However, the dentist will decide the right time since it’s just not possible in some instances.
 

It's also not too late for adults to try using braces. There are valid reasons why they didn’t do one during childhood. It could be due to the cost or inconvenience. Visit the dentist and see if braces will still work for you. After the diagnosis, you will receive a referral to go to an orthodontist. However, in many instances, a referral isn’t necessary to get braces. 

It takes a while to see the results. Once you already fixed the problem, you will feel more confident. With Invisalign braces, it won’t feel uncomfortable. People won’t even notice you’re wearing one. You might have to spend a bit more, but it’s worth the price.

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/U1gvhqVQ2kQ

This is a guest blog entry.

What You Should Know About CBD Hemp Flower

If you are just finding out about hemp flowers now, you may have gotten word about the increasing popularity of this impressive form of alternative medicine. You may also be wondering if CBD hemp flowers have a potential benefit for you and your conditions. If so, here you will find some important information you will need to make an enlightened decision about this plant for your needs.

The good news is you are starting with research and basing your decisions off of information from Pure Hemp Farms. This is always important to getting the best results from your alternative health plans. Information will lead you to the right products and manufacturers for your needs.

Health Benefits Of CBD Hemp Flowers

As a rule of thumb, anyone selling hemp flowers and products will be marketing a specific content of CBD, also called cannabidiol. CBD is an cannabinoid or a substance natural to the cannabis plant called Cannabis sativa. Recently, CBD has been purported to contain a wide variety of health benefits.

If you are looking for a good product for treating any of the conditions CBD has been found to address, you will need to begin by looking at the true CBD content. This is often provided on product labels, always favor those manufacturers who have their products tested by third-party laboratories

Some of the health benefits provided by CBD include:

Neuroprotective Effects – this means that CBD can work to preserve and restore conditions of neural structures and the general health of the brain.

May Relieve Symptoms of Various Health Conditions because of the special way that CBD interacts with the body, there is evidence that CBD may be an important part of treatments that address dystonia, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and many more. It has also been found effective for treating those with bipolar disorder.

Proven Effective Relief for Child Epilepsy

A CBD based product called Epidiolex has already been formulated and released to the market for addressing children’s epilepsy in two forms. CBD soothes the nervous system and can mitigate the harshness of seizures.

May Have Potential as Anti-Cancer Treatment

While we are still waiting for clinical evidence to support the claim, there has been considerable speculation that CBD could be a worthy treatment for cancer. It is already an important supplementary treatment as CBD has been found to soothe the nauseousness that typically accompanies chemotherapy.

May Relieve Acne

It has widely been believed that CBD helps to control the production of sebum and can help to lower inflammation and the visual effects of acne.

Some of the other health benefits accredited to CBD include:

Relief of Chronic Pain

Relief of  Anxiety and Stress

Relief of  Insomnia

Relief of High Blood Pressure

Has been used to Treat Heart Disease

Relief for Treat Drug Addiction

Treatment for  Diabetes

How CBD Hemp Flower Can Be Used

Smoked

If you buy the dried CBD flower, you can smoke it the same way you would a cigarette. Simply crumble the flower into a cigarette rolling paper and roll the cigarette into a tube around the dried herbs. The best thing about smoking CBD herb is that the effects can be felt very quickly.

Incorporated Into Food Recipes

Another good way to enjoy all the benefits of CBD is by incorporating your CBD herb into your favorite recipes. From salads to baked goods you can lace almost any recipe with this delightful flower that doesn’t feature an unpleasant or very strong flavor. This route of delivering the CBD substance to the body is going to take a little longer as the CBD will have to pass through the powerful metabolism of the liver.

Possible Side Effects of Use of CBD Hemp Flower

It should be noted that using CBD will result in some side effects. One of the most concerning is the way that CBD supplementation will affect the function of the liver. As the CBD use changes the enzymes of the liver inflammation can be the result and this can cause damage to the liver.

Some of the other possible effects of using CBD flower include the following:

Dizziness

Vomiting

Red Eyes

Nausea

Fluctuations of Mood

Dry Mouth

It is also important to never take CBD products if you are already taking a specific type of medication to treat that condition. If you are considering supplementing a current medicinal plan, you should discuss your plans with your general practitioner.

Your doctor will be able to provide advice and supervision for your new form of supplementation. Furthermore, you will be able to discuss the process and monitor the progress with professional advice and insights. If you notice any of the side effects begin to present themselves, it is time to stop taking CBD and consider another way to address your conditions.

Conclusion

While it may seem fun and challenging to grow your own CBD hemp flowers, there are some good reasons to trust the superior production methods and legal status of professional producers and product manufacturers. But if you know what you are doing, growing your own CBD flowers may be a good idea for you.

Remember that when trying natural or herbal treatments, the results are always better if you are following a healthy diet and lifestyle. Smoking, drinking and high amounts of processed foods will counteract the benefits of CBD. Furthermore, the best results will come in time after you have made CBD supplementation an intrinsic part of your life.

This is a guest blog entry.

Top 3 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Medical Marijuana Dispensary

With each passing day, more and more states are continuing to legalize the sale and sale of marijuana and hemp-based products. As it is, the cannabis market in the United States is valued at approximately $6 billion. As restrictions on the operation of dispensaries continue to ease, the sales of both medical and recreational marijuana are expected to contribute a whooping $7.3 billion to the economy by 2022.

In the coming years, there are likely to be a higher number of dispensaries in each town as state authorities approve more operating licenses for cannabis dealers in a bid to plug the revenue shortage brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the increase in the number of dispensaries, many cannabis users still have a hard time identifying a quality dispensary.

If you are looking to start using cannabis as a recreational drug or you have recently been advised to use medical marijuana by your doctor as a way of mitigating an illness, we recommend that you first acquire a medical marijuana card. You can easily acquire this card with the help of Green Health Docs.

Once you get your card, there are several factors that you should consider so as to identify a quality dispensary in your locality as we will discuss in the article below.

Top Tips on How to Select the Right Marijuana Dispensary

1. Consider the Location of The Establishment

If you are looking for an easy time selecting a local dispensary, you can download a cannabis dispensary app like the Rollin Now App.

On downloading the app, check out stores in your locality. It is important that you gauge the location of a dispensary as it will have a huge impact on how conveniently you can access your favorite cannabis products.

When considering if a dispensary is in a good locale, check for important things such as ease of access and the availability of parking spaces.

Note that in most jurisdictions, there are rules stipulating the locations where cannabis dispensaries can be located. For example, in some localities, dispensaries cannot be located too close to schools or youth centers. Because of local restrictions, you may find that most of the dispensaries in your locality are located in neighborhoods that are ‘sketchy’.

2. Gauge the Quality of CBD Products on Offer in Relation to Price

For any product, quality tends to be subjective.

When it comes to selecting CBD products, most CBD users compare the process to selecting wine.

When given a wide range of wines to choose from, you may not necessarily want the wine with the highest alcoholic content. The same goes for marijuana. When making a purchase, you may not necessarily want the most potent strain on offer.

Given that there are different strains and grades of marijuana on sale in dispensaries, it is important to be careful when selecting your CBD products. Ideally, you should be guided by your personal tastes and preferences when selecting marijuana products.

Additionally, you should also gauge the prices of different products when choosing a dispensary. If you shop around different local dispensaries, you will quickly find out that the prices of marijuana products tend to vary from one establishment to the other.

Ideally, you should settle for a dispensary that offers your preferred marijuana products at affordable rates.

3. Consider the Product Variety

One of the most important considerations to keep in mind when choosing a dispensary is the range of marijuana products on offer. Long gone are the days when you had to roll a joint to enjoy the benefits of marijuana. Today, there are many options that you can explore if you are looking to consume CBD products. The ideal dispensary should have a wide range of CBD products such as edibles, gummies, vapes, cookies, tea and brownies. If you prefer a wider choice that is on offer from online marajuana Toronto visit this site. You will be sure to find exactly the product that meets your needs.

This is a guest blog entry.

CBD Softgels Vs CBD Tinctures: Joy Organics Discuss Which Is Better?

If you happen to browse through the latest medical journals or visit web pages dedicated to CBD research, it will quickly become apparent that CBD has a lot of health benefits. The best thing about CBD is that it can be consumed through various ways. The two most popular means of consuming CBD are use as a tincture or consumption while in capsule (softgel) form.

If you are looking to enjoy the myriad benefits associated with CBD, you can consume it conveniently either as a tincture or softgel. Consumption in either form will guarantee that your body absorbs the maximum number of cannabinoids. If you are interested in a business in CBD find out about the Joy Organics Private Label CBD Program.

In the article below, the focus will be on the benefits of both CBD softgels and tinctures after discussing the matter with Joy Organics.

However, before we explore each of the CBD products mentioned above, let us first look at the general benefits of taking CBD.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the over 100 phytocannabinoids that are usually found in the hemp plant. On ingestion or application to the human body, it is usually absorbed through a network of cell receptors that are found in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Once CBD interacts with the ECS, it can boost your general health as well as help mitigate the symptoms of certain illnesses.

Research has shown that consuming CBD extract can help your body in the following ways:

-    Boost muscle and joint function
-    Help curb insomnia
-    Help you maintain a healthier skin
-    Boost recovery for injuries gotten when working out
-    Help stabilize moods

Remember that no matter the form that you choose to use CBD, you should always have one end goal in mind – Helping your body to achieve homeostasis.

An In-depth Look at the 2 Most Popular Forms of CBD Products

As mentioned earlier, CBD is mostly consumed in the form of capsules or tinctures. Let us now take an in-depth look at each product.

1. CBD Softgels

What Is a CBD Softgel?

In a recent research study, 52% of the respondents said that they prefer taking CBD softgels as opposed to consuming chewable(s) or tablets.

Our research shows that softgels have the following properties:

-    They do not dissolve in the mouth
-    They are easier to swallow compared to other alternatives
-    They do not break down in the storage container
-    They have a delectable taste

At Joy Organics, we produce softgels in such a way that they offer you the maximum entourage effect on consumption. For example, the CBD Softgels that we retail such as our softgels with Curcumin are made from broad spectrum oil that is rich in phytocannabinoids and engulfed by a layer of gelatin.

The gelatin layer plays the crucial role of preserving the integrity of our CBD products. On engulfing the CBD liquid in a gelatinous substance, we are usually ensuring that the phytocannabinoids within do not disperse easily. This usually means that your body will have access to a wider range of cannabinoids on consuming our products.

What Are Some of The Benefits of Using CBD Softgels?

Our CBD softgels tend to be easier on the stomach compared to chewable(s) and tablets when ingested. This is mostly because of the gelatin that we use to cover our products. Gelatin is derived from bovines which means that if it is used to coat CBD products, your body will be able to absorb the cannabinoids within with more ease.

Given that the human body already interacts with gelatin commonly, once this substance is used to encapsulate a CBD product, your body tends to have easier access to all the phytocannabinoids and fatty acids contained within the product.

Unlike other CBD products, softgels are usually hermetically sealed. This means that nothing can get in or out of the CBD products. Remember that when CBD products are exposed to things such as light or moisture, the potency can become corrupted. When CBD products are hermetically sealed, you do not have to worry about any corruption.

It is also worth noting that CBD softgels that are sealed with gelatin like the range of products that we offer at Joy Organics tend to have a longer lifespan. This is because gelatin usually acts as a natural preservative.

CBD Softgels are also better absorbed in the body. At Joy Organics, we use state-of-the-art nano-emulsion technology that allows us to produce CBD products from phytocannabinoid-rich hemp oil that is highly microscopic (As small as 25 nanometers). This essentially makes our softgels highly absorbable on consumption.

2.  CBD Tinctures

What Are CBD Tinctures?

A tincture is simply a remedy or supplement that has been produced in liquid form.

Tinctures have been used as healing remedies for a long period of time. In fact, tinctures were being used in the early 20th century, long before hospitals became common.

The preparation of a CBD tincture is a multi-stage process. First, the CBD oil is usually extracted from the hemp plant mostly through the CO2 extraction method or ethanol extraction method. This usually breaks down the trichomes of the plant and leads to the secretion of CBD and other phytocannabinoids.

The next step is usually the straining of the oil from the hemp plant. This usually leaves with a CBD-rich oil.

Note that CBD on its own tends to have an intense taste that many people do not find ideal. To make the CBD more palatable, many manufacturers tend to add flavoring to their CBD tinctures.

What Are Some of The Best Flavorings for CBD Tinctures?

Note that the type of flavoring used in CBD products usually has a huge impact on its potency.

CBD flavorings can either be organic or synthetic. Some manufacturers tend to use synthetic flavorings so as to get rid of the harsh taste found in highly concentrated CBD extracts.

Ideally, if you want to enjoy high-quality CBD products, you should go for CBD products that have an infusion of plant-based flavorings. For example, here at Joy Organics, we use essential oils such as mint and lemon so as to guarantee that our tinctures have a natural and delicious taste.

You can never go wrong by choosing to use essential oils for your flavoring. This is not just because they are organic and aromatic, essential oils also tend to work in tandem with CBD.  The aroma that most CBD products which have an infusion of essential oils tend to have can be attributed to the terpenes contained in these oils.

Terpenes are the aromatic chemicals that give most plants and fruits such as oranges and lemons their smell and taste. Apart from the aromatic smell, terpenes also have a host of other benefits. For example, the terpenes found in rosemary essential oil usually enhance cognitive performance while the terpenes in lavender essential oils usually provide a soothing feeling to the body.

When you add a flavoring of essential oils or any other organic product, the terpenes usually interact with phytocannabinoids and strengthen your CBD product. On consuming a CBD product that has been flavored with terpene-rich organic essential oils, you are more likely to enjoy its maximum benefits or ‘entourage effect’.

A Simple Guide on How to Consume CBD Tinctures

Using CBD tinctures is relatively easy and uncomplicated.

All you need to do is to introduce a dropper into the container with the tincture, draw up the liquid into the dropper shaft and then place a few drops in your mouth. Once you ingest the tincture, it will be absorbed in your body just like other forms of CBD. It is however worth noting that since the tincture is usually in liquid form, it tends to work faster compared to other forms of CBD products.

CBD Softgels Vs Tinctures: Which Is Better?

Now that you know more about softgels and tinctures, you may be wondering… Which is best for me? Well, it all depends. Here is what we mean…

Both CBD softgels and tinctures have the same level of effectiveness. No matter the form that you choose to consume your CBD, you are sure to get enjoy the benefits of cannabidiol.

CBD softgels tend to be easier on the stomach compared to other forms of CBD products. For example, the CBD Softgels by Joy Organics are formulated using cutting-edge nanotechnology that increases their bioavailability and makes them extremely easy to swallow. Additionally, if you explore our range of CBD Softgels, you will find that the ideal serving is already outlined for you.

CBD tinctures can tend to have an unappealing taste for some people especially if they do not have any flavoring. However, you can make tinctures more palatable by adding them to beverages such as tea, soup or smoothies.

CBD tinctures tend to work more quickly compared to CBD softgels. However, remember that the organic matter that you consume in conjunction with your tinctures will impact on the time that the tincture takes to be effective. Your body will have to break up all the materials in your stomach before dividing all the nutrients so that they can be absorbed by the body. If you eat before consuming CBD tinctures, they are likely to take as much time as CBD softgels before kicking in.

Our Final Word

As you can see, when it comes down to selecting tinctures or CBD softgels, it all depends on your personal preferences. If you want the CBD to kick in quickly, consider using a tincture. However, if you are looking to consume CBD more easily, a CBD softgel may be the way to go.
No matter the choice that you make, you are sure to enjoy the benefits of CBD either with CBD softgels or CBD tinctures.

This is a guest blog entry.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician?

This might seem like a very straightforward question, but there is not just one simple answer. There are different paths you can take to enter this profession.

It all depends on whether you need to take pharmacy technician classes to get licensed or registered and certified in your state.

Knowing your state’s regulations is a great place to start.

What are the regulations in your state?

Each state has different regulations about who can work as a pharmacy technician.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board provides an at-a-glance look at state requirements. You can easily see if your state requires certification, licensing or registration, or both. This is an excellent first step to help you plan your timeline. 

Next, you will want to take a closer look at your state’s requirements. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy can give you more specific information about your state’s requirements. This resource can help you make sure you have all the current information you need to become a pharmacy technician in your state.

No Regulations

At the moment, there are only five states that have no requirements besides a high school diploma or GED. These states do not require technicians to register with the State Board of Pharmacy.

If you choose this route, most of your learning will come from on-the-job training. After at least 500 hours of work experience as a pharmacy technician, you will be eligible for certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

National Certification

Currently, 24 states require pharmacy technician certification. Some of them require it in order for pharmacy technicians to become licensed or registered. Others just require it to get a job as a pharmacy technician and perform specific duties.

Before you take the exam, you have to finish a PTCB-recognized training program or have 500 hours of work experience as a pharmacy technician. However, you can apply to take the test if you are within sixty days of finishing your program. Your certification will be granted once you provide proof of completion. This could be a copy of your certificate with your name, completion date, and the title of the program you finished. It could also be an official letter from the training program with the same information.

The pharmacy technician certification exam takes about two hours to complete. It currently costs $129 to take the PTCB certification exam, but make sure you check their website for changes. Once you pay the required amount, PTCB will email you to let you know if you are authorized to schedule your exam. Some employers may even pay for employees to take the certification exam.

Licensing or Registration

Almost half of all states require licensing or registration in addition to national certification. Pharmacy technician classes can prepare you for both.

The registration process may look a bit different in each state, but you can probably expect an application, an application fee, and proof that you’ve completed the training that your state mandates. Check the State Board of Pharmacy for specific requirements.

If you decide to take pharmacy technician classes, or if your state requires them, the time requirements can vary. Programs can range from a few months to two years. Programs may offer a certificate, diploma, or degree.

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists requires accredited programs to include a minimum of 600 hours of instruction over at least 15 weeks. Longer programs may offer you an associate degree and extensive hands-on training in the field.

The length of the program is just one factor to consider. You will want to make sure the program you choose can meet your other needs.

• Does it meet your state’s requirements?
• Can it help you achieve your personal career goals?
• How much does it cost?
• Will the school help you find a job after graduation?
  

Other Considerations

 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacists are taking on more patient care roles, like giving flu shots. This means pharmacy technicians are also being asked to play a greater role in pharmacy operations.

Even if your state does not require licensing, registration, or certification right now, requirements are getting stronger all the time and could change in your state. Employers may also prefer to hire pharmacy technicians who have completed a program and obtained certification.

Schools like Ultimate Medical Academy offer a flexible online 18-month program to meet state requirements and give you an edge in the pharmacy technician field. You will leave with an associate degree and preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

You can complete an accredited training program and become a licensed pharmacy technician in less than two years! Find out what your state requires and choose the right path for you.

This is a guest blog entry.