Category: Health & Fitness

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Pregnancy Foods

The Top 10 Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy

Good news ladies, pregnant women need to eat an extra 350 to 500 calories each day. Finally, a valid excuse to eat more! With that statistic in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to reveal to you the best foods to eat in early pregnancy. That way, you'll be able to use this surplus of calories to both you and your babies advantage. So, without further ado, let's dive in! 1. Beans and Lentils : If you're looking to nurture your 14 weeks pregnant belly, we recommend eating plenty of beans and lentils. These foods are a fabulous source and protein, and pregnant women need an extra 10 grams of protein each day. Therefore, beans and lentils make an excellent addition to your diet because they contain as much as 15 grams of protein per cup! If you're unsure how to use them, we suggest adding cooked lentils and beans to your salads and rice dishes. These are sure to be a tasty addition! 2. Broccoli : Now, broccoli isn't always everyone's favorite food. However, it's worth bearing with because it's packed full of nutrients such as calcium and folate. In addition to this, it's high in fiber and vitamin C which is essential for helping your body absorb iron. Therefore, the best time to eat broccoli is when you accompany it with iron-rich food like lean red meat or wholegrain pasta. Plus, broccoli is rich in antioxidants, which promote healthy digestion and strengthen your immune system (which is obviously even more critical when you're pregnant). Also, if you're struggling with constipation (which is exceptionally common among pregnant women), broccoli is a must because of its high fiber content. Really and truly, broccoli is the perfect pregnancy food! 3. Bananas : Bananas are a brilliant snack for pregnant women. Not only does the potassium help combat fatigue, but they're also kind on the stomach if you're suffering from morning sickness. 4. Lean Meat : Just like protein levels, pregnant women also need to increase their iron intake. The volume of their blood increases, which causes them to need double the amount of iron. Therefore we suggest eating plenty of lean meat as this provides a form of iron that's quickly absorbed by the body. Good examples of these include: Beef Pork Chicken In addition to iron, these meats typically contain choline and vitamin B, both of which pregnant women need more of. 5. Oatmeal : There's no better to start your day than by eating a bowl of nutritious cereal. The complex carbohydrates in oatmeal will leave you feeling fuller for longer, and this breakfast will help lower your cholesterol levels--win-win! Top Tip: Don't buy processed oatmeals that are full of sugars and additives. Instead, cook yourself the plain variety and add a dollop of jelly. Yummy! 6. Leafy Greens : When you cook the following greens: Spinach Kale Turnip greens You release higher levels of iron and folate. In addition to this, they're also a fabulous source of calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium. We suggest sprinkling a few of these leafy greens in your pasta dishes, adding them to soups, or substituting iceberg lettuce for them in your salads. 7. Whole-Grain Bread : The simple swap from white to whole grain can make a massive difference when you're pregnant. By doing this, you ensure you get your daily intake of fiber. Ideally, you want to ensure that each slice contains at least two grams of fiber before you commit to purchasing the loaf. Plus, wholemeal bread also provides you with both iron and zinc, which are both essential nutrients for pregnant women! 8. Oranges : Oranges are an excellent fruit to eat while you're pregnant. They're full of the following goodies: Vitamin C Folate Fiber Water Now the water might not sound like a massive deal, but these fruits are almost 90% liquid, which is excellent for keeping you hydrated and combatting fatigue. 9. Nuts and Nut Butters : Healthy fats are critical for your baby's brain development, so we suggest eating one ounce of nuts a day and two tablespoons of nut butter. Plus, these snacks will help keep you full! Top Tip: if you suffer from any kind of allergy, we suggest steering clear of highly allergenic foods such as nuts while you're pregnant. Some scientists believe that exposing the baby to foods like this during pregnancy could increase their risk of developing a more severe allergy during childhood. 10. Sweet Potatoes : Sweet potatoes are full of a nutrient called beta-carotene. When we digest it, we transform it into vitamin A. This is fabulous for mothers to be because Vitamin A helps the fetus' cells grow and differentiate from one another. Top Tip: pregnant women are usually advised to stay away from high levels of animal-based vitamin A because these can sometimes be dangerous when eaten to excess. This is another reason why foods that contain beta-carotene are essential to include in your pregnancy diet. Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy: Final Thoughts It's important for women to swot up on the best foods to eat in early pregnancy because your dietary requirements change a little. However, by sticking to diets high in protein, iron, and fiber, you shouldn't go too far wrong! If you enjoyed this article, we're confident you'll love the other features published on our family and parenting blog. Over there we discuss everything from pregnancy care tips to family leave. Enjoy! Alternatively, if you have any questions about this subject, please feel free to drop us a line. We love to hear from our readers! Just fill out the simple contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Speak soon! Read Also : Choosing The Best Mattress That Will Make Mothers Comfortable During Pregnancy Golden Pregnancy Care Tips For All Expectant Women 9 Tips For Staying Fit And Healthy During Pregnancy

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Opiates

A Loved One Addicted to Opiates? Here Are Common Signs

If you've been paying attention to the news, you already know that the opioid crisis in the United States has reached critical mass. In some areas, opioid overdoses increased by 70 percent in just over a year's time. The opioid epidemic now touches the lives of millions of everyday Americans. As a result, the chances that you know someone with opioid addiction have increased astronomically. For anyone concerned that their loved one might have a problem, it's important to recognize the early warning signs of opiate use. That's what this article is for. Below, you'll learn a few basic things to look for when trying to determine if a loved one has an opiate problem. With any luck, you won't need this information, but preparedness and awareness are always important. Physical Signs of Opiate Use : When dealing with opioid abuse, there are two major categories symptoms can fall into: physical and behavioral. Let's tackle the former first. One major and obvious physical warning sign to look for is needle marks. Often, an addict will start to use drugs intravenously, which means they're injecting it. This will usually leave clear signs of use at the injection point, which is very often the major artery in the arm. Beyond the clear physical appearance of abuse, addicts will often suffer from other physical ailments. One prominent side effect is "nodding," which means that the user falls asleep suddenly and at inappropriate times. If your loved one frequently drifts off mid-conversation, this can be a sign there is a more serious problem under the surface. Other than the two unmistakable signs above, physical signs of opioid use are hard to spot. Other symptoms like constricted pupils and flushed skin can be attributed to many other things, so it's best not to worry about them alone. However, if they're paired with needle marks and nodding, there is cause for concern. Behavioral Signs of Opiate Use : The behavioral side effects of opioid abuse can be tough to spot because they closely resemble side effects caused by other common ailments like depression, stress, and anxiety. But since they're so often paired with physical signs, you'll most likely be able to tell the difference. Withdrawing from social activities is a big early warning sign. If your loved one suddenly retreats from social groups or things they once enjoyed doing, it can be a sign of a much bigger problem. Isolation is one of the earliest and most clear indicators that something is up. Mood swings and drastic behavior are also something to look for. If someone is acting highly out of character, breaking the law, and engaging in unusually high-risk behavior, something is probably wrong. All in all, behavioral shifts can be hard to hone in on, but drastic changes are almost certainly a sign of something worse. Even if it isn't an opioid addiction, it's always worth checking in with a loved one if their behavior changes unexpectedly. There are treatment centers like SMC Recovery that specialize in opiate addiction rehabilitation. Reaching out to a facility such as this can provide you with the resources and expertise you need to determine if your loved one requires medical follow-up. What's Next? Now that you're familiar with some basic signs of opiate use, you can stay vigilant when it comes to keeping loved ones safe. Addiction is a notoriously difficult problem, but there's always hope. People recover every day. If you or a loved one has an opiate problem, don't give up. With the help of professionals, friends, and family, no obstacle is too tall to scale. Stay strong, and with a little help, recovery is well within reach. Follow our blog for more health-related news and updates. Read Also : 5 Reasons Why It’s Not Too Late To Get Help Effects Of Sleep Deprivation On Your Skin & Good Sleeping Habits

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Ear Health

Important Habits to Protect Your Ear Health and Hearing

Hearing loss isn't always something that can be prevented. Sometimes loss of hearing is just something that happens as you get older. But in an increasingly loud and busy world, hearing loss might be caused early or worsened by the environment around you. And once you're hearing is gone, it can be gone for good. Can you imagine life without being able to hear? It's a scary thought for many and should be. And yet, very few of us take the proper precautions in protecting our ears and our hearing. That changes now. If you're committed to the concept of ear health and protecting your hearing, read on. We'll discuss several ways to help ensure that your hearing stays strong and true for many years to come. The Case For Earplugs : You likely rolled your eyes back in your youth when your parents advised you to wear earplugs to that rock and roll concert. But they were on to something. Approximately 15% of Americans lose hearing as a result of too-loud work or leisure environments. If you work or spend lots of time in an environment where the sound level forces you to shout to be able to communicate, it's likely that the sound levels there are dangerously high. This loudness could be due to a concert or club, or even more often, due to some form of loud and consistent machinery. If you know that you spend many hours around this kind of noise level, you should absolutely invest in a good pair of earplugs. Earplugs are easy to obtain, generally affordable, and can even be made individualized for your ears upon request. They can dampen the level of sound coming in from your environment by a significant margin, helping to curb the possible loss of hearing. Keep The Volume Low : According to the World Health Organization, over a billion people each year are at risk of hearing loss due to the unsafe use of audio devices. Earbuds, like the popular headphones designed by Apple, are especially dangerous for ear health as they fit directly into the eardrum. If you're a music lover, you probably spend a lot of time listening to music on headphones. If you care about the health of your ears, though, you should make an effort to keep the volume at a lower level. Doctors recommend a philosophy they've dubbed the 60/60 rule. The rule is a recommendation that you listen to music through headphones at 60% volume for less than 60 minutes a day for the benefit of your hearing. Even when not listening to headphones, you should aim to keep music played at a normal level to ensure long-lasting ear health. Avoid Cotton Swabs : One of the most common items in any household bathroom cabinet is a jar of cotton swabs. These little tools have been used by people to clean out ear wax for years and years, but it's only more recently that their nefarious reputation has begun to reach the public. It actually turns out that a little wax in the ears is both healthy and normal. Ears are self-cleaning organs and the wax in your ears actually serves to prevent dust and other particles from entering your eardrum. If you do have excess wax, it is not advisable that you use a cotton swab. You can very easily damage your eardrum by using a cotton swab. Instead, considering using a damp towel to gently clean around the canal. There are also various ear wax solutions that are available in stores. These are applied to the ears overnight and can help to dissolve and soften ear wax so that it can flow out of the inner ear on its own. Keep Your Ears Dry : Another frequent cause of ear damage is extra moisture. Excess moisture can allow bacteria to enter the ear canal and cause serious problems, such as a swimmer's ear or other infections. Following swims at the pool or beach, showers or baths, or any other water-related activity, you should be sure to gently towel-dry your ears. If you can feel the moisture in your ear following swimming or bathing, tilt your head to the side and tug lightly on your eardrum to help water drain out. There are also specially designed swimmer's earplugs available on the market, which can help prevent water from entering your eardrum during a swim. They work great for any age, kids or adults, and can be individually fitted for your ear by a licensed physician. Consider Getting Regular Check-Ups : Especially as you get older, you should ask your physician to incorporate hearing screenings into your regular checkups. Hearing loss doesn't happen in a flash of light, it is a very gradual process. It's recommended, then, that you have yearly consultations with a hearing healthcare professional, who can recognize the signs of hearing loss while it is still in the early stages. Taking action against hearing loss is important, as is discussing it with your doctor. Loss of hearing has been linked to other health concerns such as depression, dementia, and heart disease. Establishing a relationship with your doctor in regards to ear health early on can contribute to better overall health later on. If you do find yourself losing hearing, you should ensure to invest in a proper hearing aid. With all the advances in rechargeable hearing aids over the past few years, they now serve people with hearing impairment much better.  A well-designed hearing aid can help improve the quality of life for someone who has lost hearing and can stave off the other health issues previously mentioned. If you're interested in the best hearing aids on the market, you can learn more here. Read Also : 5 Dental Hygiene Tips For A Healthier Smile Essential Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil Must-Have Appliances For A Healthier Life

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Lip Fillers

7 Things to Know About Lip Fillers

A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that a cosmetic lip injection is performed once every twenty minutes. That's once every episode of New Girl, not including the credits or title sequence! Lip fillers are, of course, super common. They're also super precise, low-key, and effective. Maybe you're thinking of sliding under the needle yourself, or maybe you're just trying to tear yourself away from your ninth consecutive 'side of KUWTK. Either way, there are some things you should know about lip fillers. Here are 7 of them. 1. Prep for Lip Fillers Matters: Maybe this seems like a no-brainer--but if you're looking to have an awesome experience with lip fillers and enhancement, it's worth noting. Although lip injections have become a really common procedure (thanks, Kylie!), it's still not a one-size-fits-all sort of deal. It's essential that you consult carefully with your doctor to ensure you're clear on your personal lips' limitations and potentials. On your end of the deal, it's important to consider your own expectations and desired outcomes. Although lip injections have become pretty low-key, it's still necessary to decide for yourself the sort of impact you want your new lips to have on you and your face. For additional preparation, specialists suggest abstaining from painkillers like aspirin, Motrin, and Aleve, as well as fish oil, multivitamins, and vitamin E. Each of these acts as a blood thinner and can serve to make recovery more...bruises. 2. Different Fillers Do Different Things: You can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $1000 for your fillers. The actual numbers depend on a few different things, including specific location and practice. Price can also depend on the particular type of injections you choose. People typically choose between Collagen or Hyaluronic Acid (HA) bases as their filler material. Collagen works simply, by plumping the lip through its presence. HA, on the other hand, plumps the lip directly, while also trapping water within the lip. There are several different brands and forms of HA that can have various effects. For example, a filler such as Juvederm (s/o to Kylie!) will usually result in a really soft, youthful--let's just say it--Kylie Jenner-esque pout. Other fillers, like Restylane or Volbella, utilize smaller particles to achieve a subtler plump. It's important to talk with your surgeon and decide together which of the potential fillers will work best for your lips, goals, and budget. 3. Lip Shapes Depend on Your Face: You can bring as many close-ups of Kylie's bottom lip to your surgeon as you want--but nothing can really guarantee the precise way your lips will look after the fact. Sure, the specific type of injection you go with can have some impact on the outcome of your lips' shape, but it all comes down to your face's natural set-up and allowances. Lip injections typically work better on people with naturally fuller lips (lame, we know), and the way your lips look once they're healed really does have a lot to do with how your face moves with your injection. The downside is that it's nearly impossible to "copy" someone's lips. But the plus side of this fact is that your lips will probably come out looking more natural and fitted to your face. They're still your lips, just...fuller. 4. You Can Handle the Pain: Maybe you, like a lot of people, aren't super keen on needles. Or pain. Or needles. Surprise! There's no magical way to administer lip injections without injecting the lip (although we wish there were). If you want fuller lips, the fact is, you'll need to undergo the needle. The cool thing about lip injections, though, is that your lips are put under--a numbing cream, that is. The salve is applied generously to the lower parts of the face surrounding the mouth, then let sit for 20 to 30 minutes while the numbing agent activates. This means that, by the time the needles come stabbing at your face, any pain you feel will be more of a dull discomfort that most people find more than bearable; you can tell by the way they come back time and again for top-ups. 5. Recovery is Low-Key: The major difference you'll notice immediately following your injections is some slight swelling and soreness. Some experience slight bruising. As your appointment wraps up, your surgeon will place an ice pack against your lips. He'll encourage you to use ice if you experience any soreness after, but that's about it. The initial swelling and soreness should go away after a day or two. You'll be healthy, free and looking fine to go about your days as normal; go to work, have a drink, whatever. The only real thing to avoid in a day or two following your injections is drinking from straws and sipping on especially hot liquids, although even these are mostly related to the lingering numbness. 6. Injections Won't Last Forever: Depending on the person and type of injection used, the exact length of time fillers can be expected to last vary. Some fillers will stick around for only 4 to 5 months, while others have been seen to last for nearly a year. On average, people find their way back to their surgeon's office for top-ups every 6 months. Everyone's body metabolizes materials differently, and there's no real way to predict this at the outset, but talking with your surgeon on the topic is the only good way to decide what's best for your face. 7. Don't Love Your Fillers? Ditch 'em. In the Leslie Ash days of lip injections, fillers were a seriously permanent thing. The good news for the rest of us (sorry, Leslie, you're too far gone) is that, if you decide after the fact that you're not into your lip fillers, you can have them dissolved! While Collagen fillers aren't so easily taken out, HA-based fillers can vanish at the tiny flick of a needle. If you decide to get rid of your fillers, your lips will be re-injected with an enzyme designed to safely and quickly break down the filler material. You'll be back to your old face in no time. It's important, first, to give your lips that day or two to heal, as the swelling and slight bruising that can occur might be affecting the way your lips actually look. Either way, it's always good to know that, if you want, you can take this decision back. Need Lip Fillers, Like, Now!? Be sure to take your time in choosing the right surgeon and practice for the job. You want someone who makes you feel comfortable and certain they'll do the thing right--after all, you're getting lip fillers to help you feel awesome about yourself! If you're not quite ready to set up a consultation, that's no big deal. Stick around and check out more fun beauty content from us! Read Also : How To Achieve Kissable And Healthy Lips

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Dental Hygiene

5 Dental Hygiene Tips for a Healthier Smile

Do you want to have a beautiful, glowing smile? Dental health is critical to the health of your heart and overall well-being. It's important you try to maintain good dental hygiene if you want to be healthy. No two individuals have the same types of teeth. It depends on our genetics, food intake, lifestyle habits, and more. This is why dental hygiene differs from person to person and should be taken seriously. This article will teach you 5 dental hygiene tips so you can have pearly whites that impress. 1. Floss Twice Daily: Too many Americans skip flossing altogether, citing the excuse that they don't have time in their busy lives. We get it; work is tough, but gum disease is tougher. Not flossing regularly can lead to irritated gums, plaque, and gum disease. If you feel like you have no time to floss try flossing while doing other activities like reading your emails or brewing coffee. 2. Brush Longer: Ten seconds is not nearly enough time to brush your teeth thoroughly. Two minutes is an appropriate length to brush your teeth. Try brushing your teeth while getting a leg workout in by squatting or doing calf raises. 3. Pay Your Dentist a Visit: Ideally, you should be visiting your dentist for a cleaning twice a year. Some adults forgo seeing the dentist altogether but this could be a fatal mistake. Your dentist can tell you when something is seriously wrong with your teeth and stop the problem before it develops into something serious. A cosmetic dentist can determine if braces are the right choice for you to attain straighter teeth. Do your research to find the best cosmetic dentist near you. 4. Try Oil Pulling: Swish a spoonful of coconut oil around your mouth for 10 minutes at the end of a long day. This practice pulls out the grime in your teeth as it sticks to the oil. When you're done swishing, spit the oil into a garbage can. Oil pulling is a great way to get a serious clean feeling in your mouth before heading out to a big occasion. 5. Use Mouthwash: Try an organic mouthwash to top off your dental routine. Mouthwashes are the final step after brushing and flossing and it makes your mouth minty fresh. Mouthwash has a high alcohol content and thereby helps kill the germs that are lingering in your mouth. Remember, a clean mouth is a healthy mouth. Follow These Dental Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Mouth Follow these dental hygiene tips to get a healthy mouth and a healthy body by extension. Your mouth needs to be clean so that plaque and tartar don't build up on your teeth. If you enjoy biting into steaks and smiling with your teeth on camera, you need to treat them well! Like this article? Want to tell us your tips for dental hygiene? Please contact us here. Read Also: The Relationship Between Oral Health And General Health

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Newborn Baby Care

8 Newborn Baby Care Tips for First-Time Parents

The experience of being a first-time parent can be exciting and overwhelming in equal measures. Despite the advice you get from family and friends during your prenatal period, parenting and especially baby care may still be challenging. Newborn Baby Care can make things easier for you. For instance, you may have questions on how to bond with your baby, what to do when the baby cries and you have no idea what it wants, giving your baby a pacifier, breastfeeding, and so forth. To help you navigate through some of these unique mother-to-child scenarios, below are 8 tips to start you off.  Additionally, you can also check SellFormula.com's baby feeding guide for more info. Here are 8 Newborn Baby Care Tips for First-Time Parents: 1. Prioritize Breast Milk: Breast milk is far more superior to baby formula. It contains antibodies that lower the risk of bacterial and viral infections as well as allergies. Also, breast milk digests easier thereby enhancing the bioavailability of the necessary nutritional components. Working mothers can express breast milk which is then stored, warmed, and fed to their baby in their absence. It is recommended that you feed your baby exclusively on breast milk for the first 6 months. Newborn baby care can make things easier for you. 2. Maintain a Warm Environment: Before the baby’s natural thermoregulatory mechanism kicks on, ensure the immediate environment is warm and cozy enough. You can use a thermostat to set specific temperature ranges at least for the first few weeks. Newborn baby care can make things easier for you. Do not overdress the baby especially on warm or hot days. This can lead to overheating and the development of rashes and heat illnesses. 3. Bathing Your Newborn: Real baths do not begin until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off. Even then, bathing should be monitored to avoid heat loss during and after a bath. Ensure the water is at the right temperature and make the baths short. Sponge bathing is also recommended for newborns. When you live in colder areas, make the bathroom warm enough before the bathing process begins. Exposing your baby to extreme cold may lead to hypothermia. 4. Change Diapers Frequently: If you have never taken care of babies before, diaper changing may seem like a nightmare. On average, you will do diaper changes every two to three hours, but this frequency will drop as the baby approaches 12 months. Getting the best changing table pad can make the process easy and comfortable. Look for a table that is sturdy, preferably with guard rails and ample storage drawers or shelves. 5. Personal Hygiene When Handling the Baby: Babies are sensitive and it is in your best interest that you maintain proper personal hygiene. Immediately before and after interacting with the baby, wash your hands with an antiseptic solution. As much as you can, minimize the baby’s contact with strangers at least for the first few months. Clothes can be contaminated with allergens or microbes hence the need to watch out for their cleanliness. 6. Do Not Interrupt Sleeping Sessions: First-time parents often get concerned about the length of their baby’s sleep. On average, expect newborns to sleep for up to 18 hours a day. However, babies are different and some will be more active compared to others. Do not wake them up in the middle of their sleeping cycles because doing so interferes with their natural activity patterns. When you see your baby sleeping for shorter hours, contact your pediatrician and check for any anomalies. 7. Watch Out for Signs of Neonatal Jaundice: Newborn babies are susceptible to physiological jaundice. For full-term babies, this tends to disappear within 10 days, but for preterm babies, it may extend for a few more days. In case your baby develops jaundice that persists, it could be the pathological type and this requires immediate medical attention. Look out for the yellowing of the skin and sclera (whites of the eyes). Don’t opt for phototherapy unless advised by or done under the care of a pediatrician. 8. Make the Crib Comfortable: It is not uncommon for babies to sleep on you and immediately you transfer them to their cribs, they wake up. The major cause for this is insufficient warmth and comfort in the crib. The best way to counter this trend is to prewarm the crib and gently slip the baby in between the warm blanket folds. New In addition, locate the crib away from drafty windows, fans, and air vents. This helps in ensuring a regular indoor environment. There are other tips out there you can include in your checklist. However, the above should set you on the right path to nurturing your bundle of joy. It is important you spend as much time with the baby as possible so that you can bond and create a familiar atmosphere. Read Also: How to Get Your Baby Started on Solid Foods Causes Of Male & Female Infertility Golden Pregnancy Care Tips For All Expectant Women

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Cigarette Smell

How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell: 3 Surefire Tips

Not only is lingering cigarette smoke a nuisance, but it can also be bad for your health. According to experts, smoke on clothes and furniture will still cause damage to the body. If you have problems with tobacco smells in your home, keep reading for tips on how to get rid of cigarette odors. How to Get Rid of Cigarette Odors : Are you moving into a home with cigarette smell? Or are you fed up with the lingering smoke odor that won't go away? No matter your circumstances, these tips will show you how to remove smoke smell from your house. White Vinegar on All Fabrics : If you're in need of a cleaning miracle, try vinegar; it's cheap for such a universal cleaning agent. Take all pillowcases, sheets, and even mattress covers, and put them all in the washing machine. Next, put one to two cups of vinegar in there and put it on a normal cycle. You can do this with furniture fabrics that are removable, as well. And place them in the washing machine with everything else. Once the cycle is over, you should have odorless clothes and fabrics. Smoke Removal Machine : You may not have known one of these existed, but here it is. You can use a cigarette smoke removal machine such as the Villa 1000 to cut smoke odors. Cigarette smoke removal machines work by using ozone to oxidize and sanitize the air of smoke odors and toxins. The machine can only be in use while the room is unoccupied, for the safety of the owners. To use the machine, be sure to close off the area that needs to be cleaned. Run the machine for several hours, in the empty room or house, and allow an hour before reentering the space. Baking Soda Odor Elimination : Vinegar isn't the only super cleaner. Baking soda is wonderful when it comes to lifting odors from the furniture. You can take the baking soda and run it through a sifter, layering every surface. Mattresses, couches, and carpet will be great places to start. Once you have a thin, white layer on all the areas you want to clean, leave the baking soda to sit for half an hour or more. You can rub the powder into the fabrics to help it clean deep. Don't let it get wet, though. After it's been there long enough, use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the loose baking soda. You can use the baking soda treatment as many times as you need until you no longer smell the smoke odor. More Tips and Tricks : Getting rid of smoke odors seems impossible at first, but not anymore. Now that you know how to get rid of cigarette smoke, you can tell your friends exactly what they should do to get rid of odors in their own home.   Do you want more household tips and tricks? Try reading "5 Ways to Make a Big Difference in a Small Room." Read Also : How Does Smoking Weed Affect The Society

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drugs alcohol

5 Reasons Why It’s Not Too Late to Get Help

There are points in our life where we feel nothing can get better, that we’ve exhausted our options, and we’re just stuck. But the truth is, the only way we stay stuck is if we believe that’s all we can be. Getting help may seem impossible or not even worth our time, but seeking it out is taking a step forward and actually taking the initiative to live a life we deserve. Many addicts exist in an eternal state of hopeless and despair. You’ve been under the influence of drugs and alcohol for so long - what makes you think there’s the possibility of change? Honestly, we are the ones who prevent ourselves from changing or seeking help, no matter who many times we try to make excuses or convince ourselves otherwise. No matter who you are, where you come from, how old you are, or what your circumstances are, these are five reasons to convince you why it’s not too late to get help: 1. You control your actions - not substances, a person, or even anything in the outside world : Outside elements can definitely influence your choices, but at the end of the day, you ultimately make the choice itself. Think of it this way: you have the power to do anything you want in life - anything. That’s an incredible concept. Trust yourself to make the best choices even if they scare and embarrass you, or even trigger self-consciousness and insecurity. 2. Resources are always readily available : Resources, such as helplines, rehab centers, and support groups, are always readily available to help you; what’s more, new treatments are expanding and being utilized constantly! There are even organizations specifically created to guide you towards achieving goals and living a fulfilling life. Subsequently, your friends and family are also people who can support you. They’re a genuine support system who believes in you and will encourage you to keep moving forward - especially, in those moments of weakness. 3. You can always start over if things don’t work out the first time : Don’t focus on feeling your adversities need to be overcome within a certain amount of time. There are no perfect moments to start helping yourself. You decide when that moment will happen. There have been so many instances where an addict suffered relapses after long periods of sobriety and felt like a failure who took one hundred steps back. But despite the fact, they realized that giving up was always worse than the actual failure itself. Drugs and alcohol are the only substances. Your personal situation is only a situation. It doesn’t define who you are - your actions do. Lastly, lessons are never painless because they equip you with better emotional tools and strategies to handle the same events in a more mature and understanding way. 4. Life does get better : Tomorrow, the next day, and the future, in general, is always uncertain. While that may sound like an intimidating concept at first, it can actually be a catalyst for taking the initiative to help yourself. The world is full of possibilities, some of which you will never experience unless you have the courage to discover them. You can expect the world to open up when you allow yourself to stop being dictated by fear and doubt. 5. You have more strength than you think :  We are always stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Strength comes from our will to be strong in the first place. You always end up surprising yourself when you take the leap to surpass mental and emotional boundaries. The moment you overcome one obstacle, it turns into two, then three, and so on. Emotional resilience becomes a never-ending domino effect when we face fears despite being afraid over and over again. All may seem hopeless in the world, but that doesn’t mean that’s the truth. You always have the ability to change your life and get the help you need. Turning your life around will take hard work, and the path may not always be clear, but remember - you get to choose how this life will be lived. You have the power to make it whatever you want it to be, and you can do it. You really can.    

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Female Infertility

Causes of Male & Female Infertility

Infertility is very common than we think and. Close to 50 percent of couples all over the world experience infertility at one point in their lifetime. Infertility has become much more common in 2nd pregnancy than in the 1st one. The main reason for this is age. As men and women age, their fertility health tends to deteriorate. Hence it is very important to understand one’s fertility health and fertility facts while you plan and postpone your parenthood goals. You don’t want to make a decision that may affect you negatively in the future. Get Fertility Test Before Marriage: Most of us are not aware of the fertility factor nor how it is affecting us. You may blame your partner for being infertile yet the problem is with you.  One way to evaluate this is to get a fertility test done. But how many of us are so comfortable getting a fertility test done before marriage. This is something we should start thinking about. Don’t wait until you are unable to get a baby during marriage before you can decide to go for a fertility test. Understand your reproductive health from the onset so that you can start preparing in good time. The Fertility Factor and Age: The fertility factor varies from person to person. So there is no one size fits for. If someone is telling you that all men will be fertile until the age of 40, please do not believe that. I have seen men who are as old as 80 years making women pregnant. Your biological clock is different from the other person's. It also depends on how well you have taken care of your health. Take good care of your health if you want to be fertile for long. During my visit to one of the IVF centers in Mumbai, I learned that the average age of people affected by infertility is between 27 – 35 and hence it is not only a factor of age. While studying this phenomenon deeper, I found that there are multiple things involved. Let me discuss some of these factors below even though I have already mentioned some of the above. Factors That Influence Fertility: Habits and lifestyle are the core issues that affect the fertility of any human being. Sleeping habits, how we eat, and to a certain extent how we live. Make sure you get enough sleep at night so as not to affect the normal functionality of your body system. Straining the body too much can even affect the functionality of the reproductive system. Get enough rest and exercise your body from time to time so as to keep fit. Most of us here are affected by the westernized phenomenon of eating fast foods or processed foods. These foods contain chemicals that can kick our fertility out. Drinking and smoking are on a rise. Peer pressure and society are to blame. Avoid eating junk food and instead, stick to a healthy diet. Movies show such behaviors to be cool and our generation grasp it very keenly. This kind of lifestyle is leading to an increase in obese cases and thyroid patients are on a high. Women are more prone to PCOD/PCOS, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis due to such an unhealthy lifestyle. Female infertility treatment is something that has become one of the most searched terms on the internet. Summary: Concluding the topic, it is very important to understand that our body is made to withstand only a certain level of exposure to toxins and after that, it starts losing its nature. Hence please do understand this and get yourself a fertility quotient test done when you feel it is essential for you to know yourself better and plan things ahead. Read Also : Golden Pregnancy Care Tips For All Expectant Women 9 Tips For Staying Fit And Healthy During Pregnancy Yoga For Pregnant Women

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Breast Reduction Surgery

7 Important Reasons for Breast Reduction Surgery

Are your large breasts causing you embarrassment? Do you feel like sometimes, they're all that people see when they look at you? Do you often wake up with constant pain and tension in your back and shoulders -- and suspect that you're dealing with back pain from breasts that are larger than average? If so, then it's likely that you've already considered getting a breast reduction for back pain and for cosmetic purposes. But what are some of the other reasons for breast reduction surgery, and is it right for you? 7 Important Reasons for Breast Reduction Surgery Keep on reading this post to find out -- and learn how to get the body you've always wanted. 1. You're Tired of Back Pain: As you've likely expected, one of the most popular reasons for breast reduction surgery is due to back pain from breasts that are especially large. In general, women whose breasts are larger than a D cup experience moderate to severe heavy breast pain on an almost daily basis. This can make it difficult to sleep, walk around or exercises for long periods of time, or just lead to general discomfort. This is because the weight of your breasts pulls your body forward constantly -- and the muscles throughout the rest of your body often aren't strong enough to support the heavyweight of your breasts. In some cases, this can cause not only serious back pain, but even issues with your spine. This is because, over time, your breasts will impact the curvature of your spine -- making your posture even worse and giving you a hunchback look. If back pain from large breasts is a familiar condition to you, then you've likely already tried several different remedies. You've been fitted for "the right" bra more times than you can count. You've tried to lose weight, hoping that the weight loss will also trickle down to your breasts. You've even taken pain relievers like aspirin in order to combat the tension and pain. However, if you're on the hunt for a permanent solution to the agony, a breast reduction for back pain is likely your best option. 2. You'll Avoid Skin Discoloration: One of the worst parts of having a large breast problem? In addition to heavy breast pain in your chest and your back, you've likely also noticed some serious breast discoloration. Though women with breasts of any size can develop discoloration in the breasts (especially underneath them) women with big breasts are at a higher risk. So, what is it? Usually, it's actually a rash that's formed up underneath the folds of your skin. This can happen because of heat and sweat, or simply because the skin has rubbed on the skin for too long. For some people, the rash can be red with small bumps. Others may notice that the skin around, on, and underneath their breasts is a much darker shade than the rest of their skin tone. In other cases, you may even start to notice that you have sores underneath your breasts, especially if you also know that you're wearing the wrong bra size. These sores will only get worse over time. Don't wait until you develop scarring. Visit the Allure Plastic Surgery website to learn more about the different options and reasons for breast reduction surgery today. 3. You Want to Switch up your Wardrobe: Not all of the reasons for breast reduction surgery have to do with health and medical reasons or treating heavy breast pain. Sometimes, you just want to feel like you can wear what you want to without having to worry about how the size of your breasts will impact the way the clothes fit you. We know that you're definitely tired of having to buy shirts in sizes that are way too big for you, just so that the top will fit over your breasts. You're also tired of heading to the tailor (another added expense of a larger breast size) or wearing clothes that make you look larger than you really are. When you're ready to wear flattering and form-fitting clothing with lower necklines without wondering if people are staring, it's time to consider getting breast reduction surgery. Of course, your outerwear isn't the only part of your wardrobe that you'll be able to seriously upgrade once you've had the surgery. When you're ready to wear cuter, skimpier, and definitely sexier lingerie, having a more manageable breast size will allow you to do just that. You can kiss full coverage bras with uncomfortable underwire goodbye. You'll be able to buy bras and negligees in more shades than just nude, black, or white. Instead, you can embrace demi cups, fun colors, and lots of lace! We think your partner will definitely notice and appreciate the change as well. 4. Your Breast Size Impacts your Posture: According to leading surgeons at Polaris plastic surgery, heavier breasts put a strain on different parts of the body. This includes the shoulders, chest muscles, hips, and spinal cord. The weight definitely makes a difference and reducing the same can help your body parts to manage the load better. Have you noticed that, no matter how hard you try to sit up straight, the larger size of your breasts makes it difficult -- even painful? This happens because the weight of your breasts actually pulls your body forward. As a result, you'll start to slump your shoulders and roll the upper part of your back at an awkward angle. Whether you're sitting or standing, you'll often feel like you have a permanent case of computer neck. This can lead to tension in your shoulders and upper back area, as well as the potential of developing a pinched nerve. The desire to improve your posture, for both health and cosmetic benefits, is one of the most common reasons for breast reduction surgery. 5. Working out Feels Impossible: You'd love to hit the gym with your friends, take a yoga or pilates class, or just be able to go for a run in your local park on a beautiful day. However, your large breast problem often makes that feel next to impossible. First of all, the heavyweight of your swinging breasts can make workouts incredibly painful, not to mention much more challenging. You're tired of having to wear multiple sports bras -- and still not seeing much of a difference. Additionally, you may deal with embarrassment about the size of your breasts while you work out. Finally, depending on the types of workouts that you like to do, you may end up putting excessive strain on your back because of the weight of your breasts. This is especially common for women who do exercises that require them to get into the plank position, or who do high levels of cardio that include running and jumping. Getting a breast reduction for back pain allows you to move more freely and feel less stressed and embarrassed while working out and eating right. 6. You'll Avoid Sagging Breasts: One of the most annoying large breast problems that you're tired of having to deal with? Sagging breasts that only seem to worsen with age. Though dropping and drooping of the breasts are normal for women of any breast size, the process certainly speeds up -- and is more noticeable -- in those with larger breasts. You may even have started to see that the overall shape of your breasts has changed. Getting a reduction can help to change that. 7. You'll Feel More Confident: Of course, the most important reason for breast reduction surgery is because it will help you to learn to love yourself and to feel more confident. As a person with larger breasts, we know that you're tired of hearing jokes about your breast size. You may even wonder whether or not people are interested in or attracted to you as a person or just the size of your breasts. You've noticed that you often hunch over so that your size is less noticeable, or wear clothing that allows you to "hide" your breast size. The truth is that no one should feel like they have to live with this. Getting a breast reduction won't just help to eliminate pain and improve your posture. It can also do wonders for your confidence. The Reasons for Breast Reduction Surgery: Wrapping Things Up: From eliminating the possibility of skin discoloration to helping you to feel more confident about the way you look, the top reasons for breast reduction surgery go far beyond just back pain from breasts. Want to learn more about how to get a breast reduction? Looking to deepen your understanding of what the process will entail, and what you can expect the recovery period to look like? We can help. Be sure to check out our website and blog for access to more articles on a wide variety of cosmetic procedures and wellness techniques. Make this the year that you start taking your life back into your own hands. Read Also: 10 Foods For Vibrant, Glowing And Younger Skin Effects Of Sleep Deprivation On Your Skin & Good Sleeping Habits 10 Weird Facts About Antidepressants

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weight loss

Why have a diet chart for weight loss?

A dream is a dream for many overweight people when it comes to losing weight and getting back to their fitter self. However, this is not really the case with all. The people that are dedicated to get back into their healthier self-work hard and get back to their healthy figure. Are you also on the track to lose weight? If yes, the Indian diet chart for weight loss could be of great help to you in this regards. Here are some of the reasons why having a diet chart for weight loss should help you in this area. Is a diet chart for weight loss helpful? Well, this is one of the most common questions when it comes to the Indian diet chart for weight loss. You can be sure that having a diet chart will be greatly beneficial for you in the long run. However, it is important for you to follow a set pattern and enjoy it. Most researchers show that when a person starts to eat healthily, it helps him/her to lose weight in the most natural way. You also need to remember that it is helpful provided that you put forth your dedicated efforts along with following the best diet course. Helps you intake healthy food : It is a true fact that you become what you eat, and if you eat healthily you will also become healthy. On the other hand, if you eat food without appropriate nutrition it will make you unhealthy again. This will not only help you lose weight, but it will also help your body from within and make it strong again. Rather than making your body look fit from only outside, it is always best to strengthen your body from within because only this will ensure that you benefit in the long-term process. Helps boost your metabolism : Metabolism is a core functioning that results in you being able to efficiently digest your food. If this is strong, it will help you to burn the food that you intake rather than only converting it to fats. Indian diet chart for weight loss will help you because slowly you will make your body used to eating in appropriate proportions and also healthy food will go inside. This will help you to get back your healthy organs functioning that are required to become fit again. The overall process will take some time but if you are dedicated, you will notice some great changes to your weight loss. Weight loss that is sustainable : It is your sedentary lifestyle that has caused you to put on weight and lead an unhealthy life today. However, all of this has resulted in long-term habits. So you need to be practical and not expect overnight changes to your health. Losing weight all of a sudden is not good for the body and it can lead you to go to a shock at times. However, diet chart for weight loss will ensure that you experience great results at a steady pace. What things do you need to do? You will come across plenty of options when you look for a weight loss diet. However, it is best to not choose an exotic diet plan, but rather go for the one that is simple for you to follow. If you try to go for a diet chart that involves going for highly exotic fruits or vegetables not easily found in India, one day the efforts and cost of availing these things may become a pain. On the other hand, if you choose items that are easily available it will help you follow the diet chart on a regular basis and within your budget as well. Here are some of the tips to help you in this regard: Thirst is marked by the body like hunger, and so it is good to ensure you drink plenty of water per day. This is one of the effective ways to fill up your stomach and then not gorge on food later. So keep drinking water in your list and ensure that you follow it as well. Some of the foods that are nutrient-rich such as millets, fiber-rich fruits, green leafy vegetables, and other such superfoods should be of great help. These food items are also recommended by experts when it comes to experiencing the best of taste and health benefits. You need to ensure that there is no inclination for you to eat at all times and so spread out your daily meals. Try to spread your diet from 3 to 5 times a day so that you always feel full. In your weight loss diet, it is important for you to make sure that you always have protein in it. If there is no protein in your diet it will not provide you with the essential energy needed to convert food into energy. Put forth dedicated efforts : You need to make sure that you always put forth dedicated efforts in order to follow through with your diet chart. If you are not focused on health goals, you may end up going back to the same sedentary lifestyle. It is your dedicated efforts that will result in your good health and so you need to make sure that you are focused on your cause and get the great benefits in the long term. The time and efforts that you spend in following your diet chart will go a long way for you in achieving your health goals. So make sure that you make a list of things and get the benefits in the long term for your health. Health is not something that you can never take for granted because it is what will define your good life. If you spend time in this regard you will experience the best weight loss goals. Spend time in this regard so that you can be aware of what all best things are available for you. Read Also : 10 Best Protein Shake Recipes For Weight Loss If You’ve Reached A Weight Loss Plateau, Fix Your Sleep 6 Imbalances In Body Hampering Weight Loss Efforts

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Braces

18 Surprising Celebrities with Braces

When you think of celebrities, it's likely that glamour, beauty, and perfection are the first things that come to mind. So when we see celebrities with braces on, it's completely understandable how jarring that can be to the pre-convinced images in our head. But the fact of the matter is celebrities are people just like you and I. They put their pants on one leg at a time. They love their dogs and work for a living, just like everyone else. And sometimes they need the help of orthodontic work to perfect their famous smiles. So who are some of these stars that have lived out their oral treatment for the world to see? Let's look at 18 celebrities that have gone through the process... Some of them may just surprise you. 1. Prince Harry : Royals may be thought of as perfect and regal, but they aren't necessarily born that way. Prince Harry proved that even royalty sometimes need the help of orthodontic treatment to achieve a smile fit for a prince. 2. Emma Watson : Proving braces aren't just for muggles, Emma wore braces for several months while she was in her early teens, which was well into the filming of the Harry Potter movie series. It showed you don't need a magic wand to have the perfect smile, all you need is just a good orthodontist. 3. Gwen Stefani : The singer has never been afraid to show off her eclectic sense of style. Which was especially true in the 1990s when she sported a set of traditional braces as merely a fashion accessory. She may not have needed them to perfect her smile, but they definitely helped perfect her rocker chic look. 4. Tom Cruise : The actor was well into adulthood when he decided to get braces for the first time. At the age of 40 years old, Tom showed the world that the perfect smile isn't mission impossible, but mission accomplished. 5. Estelle : After she had already become famous, singer Estelle received braces when it was rumored her PR team advised her to do so. Though she denied that, stating she wanted to correct her smile in case she should ever win a Grammy. Either way, the results were indeed award show worthy. 6. Beyonce : The superstar singer had so much love for her fans in 2011 that she sported a set of braces in support of all those who have had to wear them. Now, how's that for dedication to her fans? Girls may run the world but it also proves this orthodontist helps a bit too. 7. Dakota Fanning : Dakota was only a child when she started her acting career, which meant growing up in the spotlight. So once she got her set of braces, they were shown off at movie premieres and every event she attended. She went through the full gamut of braces, head-gear, spacers, and retainers. But once her treatment was finished, she emerged with her movie star smile. 8. Faith Hill : Another celebrity who decided to get braces as an adult is the singer, Faith Hill. At the age of 45 years old, the country beauty admitted to having braces when she was younger but didn't keep up with wearing her retainer. This time, the second time was the charm. 9. Cindy Crawford : Even supermodels are not immune from the need to wear braces. Cindy Crawford, perhaps one of the most famous supermodels of all time, was an adult and sported her orthodontic look in a Pepsi ad during the 1990s. 10. Danny Glover : Perhaps being the king of proving braces know no age, the actor received his braces at the age of 59 years old. He can even be seen wearing his braces in the movie Shooter. It just goes to show, better late than never. 11. Faye Dunaway : But if you think 59 years old is late in life to get braces, actress Faye Dunaway has that beat. She was in her 60's when she began her treatment with traditional braces! 12. Ariel Winter : Growing up on a successful tv series meant growing up for the world to see. The actress received her braces while continuing to film the popular tv show, Modern Family. She didn't let it stop her though, her real-life braces fit in perfectly with her tv character. 13. Kendall Jenner : Another celebrity who admits to not properly wearing their retainer the first time around is Kendall Jenner. When her teeth had shifted back, she opted to wear Invisalign braces to correct the problem. With her supermodel smile, she has won a billion hearts of her fan. 14. Nicolas Cage : When he was between movie projects, Nicolas Cage decided to wear braces on his lower teeth, becoming yet another celebrity adult to sport traditional braces. 15. Chelsea Clinton : How many people can say they wore their braces in the Oval Office? Chelsea Clinton sure can. While growing up in the White House as the First Daughter, she publicly sported her traditional braces. 16. Justin Bieber : The pop singer is another one who opted to treat their smile with Invisalign braces, but he wasn't afraid to show or admit it. He even made a video in a YouTube clip to show fans, wearing the braces for about a year before his treatment was finished. 17. Drew Barrymore : Beginning her acting career during childhood as well, Drew grew up in the spotlight. It wasn't until after filming the movie E.T., at the tender age of 12, she also joined the traditional braces club. 18. Kate Middleton : For her royal wedding, Kate Middleton wanted to make sure her smile was fit for a future princess. For a short time before the ceremony, she wore invisible braces. Celebrities with Braces Can Give Us All the Good Feels : Dealing with braces can be stressful, make us feel anxious, and can be painful. But when we see one of our favorite celebrities with braces on as well, it can give a sense of comfort and be belonging that we are all in this together in some way! And doesn't that just feel good? Want to know how taking care of your oral health can impact your general health? Be sure to check out our blog post on it! Read Also : The Differences Between A Dentist And An Orthodontist Things To Pay Attention To When It Comes To Servicing Ultrasound Probe

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