Family * Travel * Food

Relax with Grace & Stella Lavender Skin Care Products

Lavender is an exceptional and highly sought-after ingredient in beauty products due to its remarkable benefits for both the skin and overall well-being. Its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help soothe and calm the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin types. The gentle floral scent of lavender also offers aromatherapeutic advantages, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can positively impact skin health. Its natural antibacterial qualities aid in combating acne-causing bacteria, while its ability to boost circulation contributes to a healthier complexion with a radiant glow. Whether used in lotions, creams, oils, or serums, lavender proves to be a multifaceted botanical that nourishes, revitalizes, and enhances the beauty of the skin. 


If you are looking for some relaxation and pampering, you must check out the lavender line of body products from grace & stella. Please note that this post may contain affiliate links.


lavender spray (SRP: $26) — Spray all night. Soothing your atmosphere is just as important as soothing your skin. Get ready for the best sleep of your life with this mood-lifting spray for your linens, pillows, and room. Infused with lavender flower water, aloe extract, and chamomile flower extract to calm your worries and combat insomnia. It is also backed up by real aromatherapy science to treat headaches and relieve tension. An absolute must for peri- and menopausal women!


lavender essential oil (SRP: $26) – Calm yourself.  And don’t let a summer headache get you down. This 100% pure lavender oil provides pain-relief that makes you go "ahh"! Promoting relaxation and used to treat anxiety, headaches, depression, insomnia, and more, it is the upgrade your self-care routine has been craving. You've never known a more peaceful sleep - lavender oil is infamous in the aromatherapy world for boosting sleepiness and relieving stress and muscle tension for a relaxed body. It also offers anti-inflammatory properties, and treats fungal infections, allergies, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps.


lavender dr. pedicure foot peeling mask (SRP: $26/2 pairs & $34/4 pairs) — Down for the peel. 

Are barefoot summer days and long walks on the beach leaving your feet rough and calloused? This viral and gross-but-satisfying exfoliant foot peel is packed with powerful alpha hydroxy acids (including lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid) that will completely shed the dry, calloused skin off feet. It's formulated to penetrate deep into the skin barrier to soften and repair feet, transforming and peeling them to reveal the fresh skin underneath. Hello, baby-soft feet. Buy them here


lavender body lotion (SRP: $25) — Do your skin a favor.  Amazon’s Choice and Overall Pick, this effective, anxiety-relieving but not-overpowering daily body lotion is enriched with the relaxing scent of lavender essential oil to promote calmness and wellness, and the nourishing properties of shea butter to instantly hydrate skin and maintain moisture for up to 12 hours. Does the sun, chlorine or saltwater have your skin looking like raisins these days? This smooth, intensely-replenishing, lightweight formula melts effortlessly into your skin, leaving it soft, supple, moisturized, and smelling oh-so-good.

just the facts:

●      truly clean!

●      100% Vegan

●      cruelty-free - Leaping Bunny certified

●      no dyes are used in any products 

●      paraben-free

grace & stella is available on Amazon and graceandstella.com

Thank you so much to grace & stella for the lovely products to try out. We love them! 
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How You Can Improve Your Gut Health #BioGaiaUSA

Are you aware of how important good gut health is? So many of us don't realize that we are unintentionally wrecking our bellies. There are so many things that can really throw your gut health off beginning with diet.  What we eat and drink makes a difference in not just your overall health, but especially your gut health. With life being so busy all the time, it's often easy to pull up to the drive-thru window to order a meal on-the-go. I mean who can resist a tasty sandwich paired with some hot, crispy fries? Of course, I know it's not the best choice for me. Fried foods may taste delicious, but really is one of the worst things for your belly. 

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post

According to Healthline, here are 7 signs of an unhealthy gut. 
  1. Upset stomach
  2. A high-sugar diet
  3. Unintentional weight changes
  4. Sleep disturbances or excessive fatigue
  5. Skin irritation
  6. Autoimmune conditions
  7. Food intolerances

What can you do to help heal your gut?

  • The number one thing you can do is to adjust your diet. Hydration is a good start. Drink water throughout the day. 
  • Make dietary changes. Avoid sugar, processed and fried foods. Lean protein, fruit and vegetables are all good choices. Also, don't forget to eat slowly and chew chew chew your food!
  • Get enough sleep. Stay away from screens as much as you can before bedtime. 
  • Avoid stressful situations as much as you can. Exercise and deep breathing can be beneficial in lowering stress levels. 
  • If you notice major stomach issues that won't seem to go away, it might be a good idea to be allergy tested to see if you are eating foods that might be triggering the problem. 
  • Take a probiotic supplement like BioGaia products

About BioGaia products: 

BioGaia’s probiotic products with Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri) are among the most scientifically well-documented probiotics in the world. To date the efficacy and safety of BioGaia’s different strains of L. reuteri have been documented in 224 clinical studies in around 18,000 people of all ages (May 2020).

BioGaia’s strains of L reuteri has been tested in 110 studies in children, from newborns up to 18 years old, and in 114 studies in adults. You can also learn more here



BioGaia products come in different varieties for your individual needs. There is a product for everyone in your family. I have been using the Immune Active with added vitamin D, and the Gastrus for optimal gut health. I am doing my best to make some small changes for myself. I've been suffering from an unsettled tummy that doesn't seem to go away fully. I am hoping these products will help. I will say that so far I have bot been feeling overly bloated at night. That's a big win for me. It's hard to go to bed when your stomach doesn't feel so good, so these probiotics will be a great help. 

If you are suffering from stomach issues like gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea or heartburn, a probiotic with the proper lifestyle changes can be beneficial for you. An unhealthy gut means an unhealthy you. Take a look at the BioGaia USA website to read up on the benefits of probiotics.  

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Foods That Are High in Trace Minerals

Our body requires many compounds to work. These serve as building blocks and let us carry out daily tasks efficiently. These compounds can be categorized into macro minerals and micro minerals owing to the amount in which our body necessitates them. Micro minerals are also known as trace minerals.

As the name itself suggests, macro minerals are those elemental compounds required in abundance. They are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, chloride, and sulfur. In contrast, micro minerals are needed in smaller quantities. Their amount doesn't mean that they are less influential in any way. There are nine trace minerals. These include iron, copper, chromium, iodine, zinc, fluoride, selenium, cobalt, and manganese. Some foods are naturally rich in these nutrients. Certain fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, berries, broccoli, etc. When people fail to add these foods in their regular diet, they meet the deficiencies with the help of fruit and vegetable based supplements. Some examples are N1N Organic Super Greens, Elderberry Gummies by Gummies Garden, Balance of Nature, etc.

A balanced diet includes a suitable composition of macrominerals and trace minerals. A lack of these essential minerals can cause hindrances in body functions, suspension in hormone production, metabolic dysfunction, chronic illnesses, osteoporosis, lack of energy, etc. Therefore, intake of trace minerals is vital for your body. 

In this article, we have mentioned the primary sources of each of the nine trace minerals separately. You should make sure that you incorporate them into your diet regularly. 


1. Chromium

Chromium is an essential trace mineral for a healthy metabolic function. Not only does it help in storing starch and sugar in the body, but it also increases insulin response for regulating blood sugar levels. 

Chromium is found in minimal quantities in various foods. Sources of chromium include fruits and vegetables like bananas, potatoes, apples, basil, garlic, broccoli, etc. Traces of dietary chromium are also found in meat and whole grains. 


2. Copper

Copper plays a significant role in enzyme activity. This mineral may not hold much importance to you but is an invaluable factor in promoting strong bones and healthy blood vessels. Your body needs this mineral (even if it is in small amounts) to produce energy.

You can obtain copper in minor amounts from shellfish, organ meats, nuts, cocoa, seeds, and whole grains.

3. Fluoride

This vital mineral is widespread, and you're probably quite familiar with it as it is mentioned on almost all kinds of toothpaste. That's because our teeth need to prevent dental cavities and mineralize not just teeth but also bones. When taken in the right amounts, fluoride will surely keep both your bones and teeth strong and healthy.

Fluoride is commonly found in tea, seafood, and even drinking water. It is also present in mouth rinses and toothpaste.

4. Iodine

Never take iodine for granted. This crucial trace mineral is essential for normal thyroid gland function. Supplementary to that, it bolsters immunity and aids insulin action. It's also imperative to take inaccurate iodine amounts because over intake of this mineral may increase blood sugar. 

You'll find iodine in a lot of seafood as well as dairy products. Plus, table sugar is also rich in iodine.


5. Iron

Hemoglobin and myoglobin are proteins found in the blood and bone cells. Iron is a significant component of both these proteins and helps in oxygen transport and storage.

Iron is primarily present in meat, legumes, leafy green vegetables, and even some beans.

6. Manganese

Manganese is a trace mineral that is actively involved in antioxidant reactivity. Healing of wounds and formation of bones are some typical roles of manganese. It is a cofactor for enzymes and is associated with protein, carbohydrates, and cholesterol metabolism. This mineral regulates blood sugar levels and acts as a potent nutrient involved in normal brain and nerve functions.

Rich sources of manganese include nuts, pineapples, coffee, tea, and legumes. Drinking water also contains negligible amounts of manganese. 

7. Molybdenum

This mineral is involved in enzyme activity for the breakdown of toxins and drugs that enter the body. It also processes proteins into amino acids. Genetic materials like DNA are also broken down via this mineral.

Molybdenum can be found in many plant-based foods, for instance, legumes and nuts. Beef liver is also a pretty rich source of manganese.


8. Selenium

Just like iodine, selenium is a trace mineral involved in normal thyroid function. It plays a crucial role in the reproduction and synthesis of DNA.

Whole grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes are just some sources of selenium. People who eat plenty of plant-based foods are most unlikely to suffer from selenium deficiency.

9. Zinc

A lot of chemical reactions in your body are taking place due to the presence of zinc. This vital mineral is a significant component of your immune system. Its importance in the body is beyond imagination. You might not be able to taste your food well or even smell all those numerous things around you if it weren't for zinc. Vegetarians mostly have a zinc deficiency, but if you're a meat-eater, you'll probably have no problem with your zinc intake.

Zinc can be found in seafood, meats, and foods that are rich in proteins. Oysters are the best-known source, as they contain more amounts of zinc than any other food.
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Essential First Aid Practices Every Parent Should Know

As a parent, you probably already have a stocked medical aid kit. Things like medical gauze and various plasters and dressings come standard with most of them. But for any of these items to be of use, we need to know how to use them. 


When it comes to kids, first aid techniques tend to be a little different. Although it's always best to do proper first aid training, there are some basics that a parent should familiarize themselves with. So what are the essential basics? Ranging from potentially life-saving to good-to-know skills, here are the top three first-aid practices every parent should know:

The Heimlich

This procedure is a little different for kids than it is for adults. If your child is choking, stay calm and do the following: Grab your child by their waist. Place your fist just above their navel. Your other hand is then made in the shape of a fist and pushed hard into the abdomen. You may feel reluctant to push too hard, but a successful Heimlich does require force.

As you push down on your child's abdomen, move your grip in an upwards direction. The motion is similar to the motion of lifting your child. Continue repeating this motion until the choking is relieved or help arrives. Preventing choking is just as important, and you should understand the correct foods for your toddler for this reason.

CPR

If your child is not breathing, they may require mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This technique is not for cases where your child is choking, but rather for not breathing for any other reason. Note that if your child can still breathe faintly, it is best to take them straight to the emergency room. To perform CPR on a child, do the following:


Turn the child on their back and place the heel of your palm on their chest. Keep your hand position centered between the line of the nipples and gently perform compression by pressing down. In this case, excessive force can damage or even break ribs. The goal is to get airflow to the lungs, so you only need to use as much force as is needed to compress the chest cavity. After a brief compression, release before pressing down again.

Dealing With Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are common in children under the age of ten. There are numerous causes, most of which are harmless. To treat a nosebleed, do the following: Have your child sit upright with their head tilted ever so slightly forward. You do not want your child to lean back. This would allow the blood to flow down into the digestive system, which may cause nausea. 

Take a clean cloth and pinch the bridge of your child's nose. The bleeding should subside after about 10 minutes. If it persists, take your child to the emergency room. If the bleeding occurs after an impact or your child experiences dizziness, consult a doctor immediately.

Basic first aid practices can ultimately save lives. It is even more essential to know specific first aid skills to keep your children safe in worst-case scenarios and dangerous situations if you are a parent. 

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Dental Crowns: Purpose, Types, and Procedure

Our teeth can get damaged over time. It happens due to various reasons such as an injury, tooth decay, or over time. This results in our teeth losing their size or shape. One of the ways to restore your teeth to their former glory is by getting dental crowns. They are teeth-shaped caps which are placed over your teeth as the name suggests.


Dental crowns help restore the appearance, strength, size, and shape of your teeth. They are cemented into place and cover a visible portion of your teeth. According to My Dentist San Francisco’s website, a crown may be necessary if you have a broken tooth, a very large filling with additional decay, a worn down tooth, a root canal treated tooth, or a cracked tooth

Dental Crowns Purposes

Dental crowns are required for various reasons as mentioned below.

  • To cover teeth which are treated with a root canal

  • To cover dental implants

  • To cover severely discolored or misshaped teeth

  • To hold dental bridges in place

  • To cover and support teeth with a large filling and which do not have much tooth remaining

  • To restore broken teeth or severely worn out teeth

  • To protect weak teeth from breaking or keeping them together

Dental Crowns Types

Now that you know about the reasons why people get dental crowns, let’s take a look at the different types of dental crowns that are commonly available.

1. Metal Crowns

When it comes to making dental crowns, several metals can be used such as chromium, nickel, palladium, and gold. Metal crowns have a much harder time breaking or chipping. This makes them long-lasting. Besides, only a small amount of the tooth needs to be removed when opting for metal crowns. They also withstand constant chewing and biting. However, their metallic colour is a drawback. 

2. Porcelain-Fused-Metal Crowns

If you are looking for dental crowns that match the colour of your teeth, porcelain-fused-metal crowns are as good as things get. They boast a more natural look. But, it is important to keep in mind that the metal under the porcelain cap can show sometimes. There is also a possibility of the porcelain portion breaking or chipping off. These crowns are suitable for back or front teeth.

3. Resin Crowns

For those of you who are looking for a more affordable option, resin crowns might be the perfect option. They tend to be more affordable. However, these crowns are more likely to break and wear down over time as compared to other dental crown types.

4. All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic

When it comes to the best natural look, all-porcelain and all-ceramic dental crowns do not disappoint in the very least. They are the perfect option for those of you who have experienced metal allergies. However, you should not expect them to be as strong as porcelain-fused-metal crowns. Hence, more care is required.

5. Pressed Ceramic

Pressed ceramic crowns have a hard inner core. The metal liner is replaced by pressed ceramic dental crowns which are commonly used in all-ceramic crowns. Porcelain is used to cap pressed ceramic crowns. These crowns are more long-lasting and offer the best natural color match.

Dental Crowns Procedure

When getting dental crowns, you normally need to visit the dentist twice. However, it is possible to get a dental crown made during the first visit. Let’s take a look at the procedure.

The First Visit

The tooth which requires a crown is examined and prepared during the initial visit. X-rays of the tooth also need to be taken as well as of the bone around it. A root canal treatment might also be required before starting the dental crown procedure due to the following reasons.

  • Injury to the pulp

  • Risk of infection

  • Tooth decay

The tooth that will receive the crown has to be filed down from the sides and top. It will help leave some space for the crown to be fitted. The amount of tooth which would get filed depends on the type of crown one select. For instance, if you opt for metal dental crowns, not much tooth would be removed as they are thinner. A paste or putty would be used after the tooth has been reshaped to make an impression of the tooth that will get a crown. Then, the impressions would be sent to the dental laboratory where the crown would be made and delivered to the dentist within two to three weeks. A temporary crown would be made during the first visit to cover and protect the tooth that will get a crown.

The Second Visit

The permanent crown would be placed on your tooth during the second visit. To do so, the temporary crown will be first removed and a new crown will be permanently cemented after using a local anesthetic to numb the tooth.

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How to Decrease Your Chances of Lung Disease

The devastating impact of Covid-19 has shown the world the importance of keeping your lungs healthy. Respiratory diseases are no joke and can put your life at risk if you do not take the proper steps to prevent them. Lung cancer alone kills 1.6 million people every year, which is not to mention all those impacted by other serious diseases like bronchitis or tuberculosis. Although it can be impossible to totally avoid certain diseases like lung cancer, there are certain steps you can take to decrease your risk. Here are a few examples. 


Quit Smoking

The number one activity that puts your lungs at risk that is entirely preventable is smoking. Your risk of cancer increases dramatically the longer you smoke and the number of cigarettes you smoke a day. The sooner you quit, the more you reduce that risk. Chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD) is another serious respiratory illness caused by smoking and it’s the third most deadly disease in American based on how many deaths it causes each year. According to the CDC 8 out of 10 cases of COPD are caused by smoking – which shows how much the activity can put you at risk. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. Smokers are more at risk of experiencing complications if they catch COVID-19. That on top of all the other health risks it poses makes the activity increasingly dangerous in today’s world. 


Exercise Regularly 

Exercise is a natural defense against any disease. It won’t prevent viruses and bacteria from getting into your body, but it will ensure that your immune system and other organs healthy enough to fight off any intruding organisms. Cardio is especially effective for lung functioning and you should consider jogging, walking, or playing a sport that involves running if you feel you may be at risk for catching lung disease. 

Test Your Home for Radon or Asbestos

There are potentially life-threatening substances that can be found in the average American home, such as radon and asbestos. Radon is a radioactive gas that seeps out of the earth and into households through gaps in the foundation. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and kills about 20,000 people per year. Asbestos is a mineral that was used in building many popular building materials up until the 1970s. Asbestos has been proven to cause mesothelioma, a deadly form of lung cancer that is often underdiagnosed. More information on mesothelioma treatment and prevention is available through the Mesothelioma Cancer Network.

If you believe that your home may be exposed to either of these deadly substances, have it screened immediately. You can never be too safe when it comes to the health and safety of your family. These substances can be easily dealt with if you act fast – but if you leave it alone too long, there may be deadly consequences.

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Pamper Yourself With Cleanlogic Bath & Beauty Products (Giveaway)

This year has been quite a challenge for so many of us, and it's important to not forget about taking care of yourself inside and out. Some people are still a bit nervous about getting beauty or skincare treatments done away from their house, with good reason. The great thing is you can still take great care of your skin without stepping foot outside of your home! 

Cleanlogic offers a variety of antimicrobial bath and beauty products that will get you set up with your very own at-home pampering kit. Cleanlogic’s products have antimicrobial protection to slow or prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, are animal-test free, Control Union Certified, and made with clean ingredients and recyclable packaging. Cleanlogic is also dedicated to supporting the over 25 million people in the United States who are blind or visually impaired with packaging that includes functional braille, and a portion of all sales that are donated to blind and visually impaired charities.



We received a few Cleanlogic bath items to try out for ourselves including: Dual Texture Exfoliating Facial Pads ($5), Detox Purifying Charcoal Body Scrubber ($5), and the Dual Texture Exfoliating Body Scrubber ($5). 


The facial pads came in a pack of 3, so I gave one to my daughters, and kept the other one for myself. Both of my girls work out and do yoga, so they were excited to try these out on their faces. As for myself, I have patchy skin. I tried this facial pad out for a few days to see how it would work on the dry spots, and to my surprise, it helped tremendously. I was able to gently yet effectively exfoliate my face and neck, revealing glowing and smooth skin. I love feel of the smooth side. It practically glides across your skin!


Speaking of dry skin, I have noticed for months now that my body overall has been a bit drier than usual. I gave the detox purifying charcoal body scrubber a try to see how it would work for me. I like the handy strap that is on the scrubber, which makes holding it without dropping it a lot easier. I have used it with either body wash or soap, and I like how well it lathers. This scrubber offers a gently scrub that you can feel, yet it's not harsh at all. I had no idea how bad my skin was until I got out of the shower and towel-dried myself off. My skin had that peachy-blush hue to it because that super dry layer had been exfoliated away. Even my moisturizer went in easier and seemed to really absorb better. 


We definitely recommend these fabulous products for anyone who wants to improve their skin texture. Self care is essential, even more so during the pandemic. Cleanlogic has so many great skin care items, and even a line for men. They offer FREE shipping on $20+ orders, and are even including a free holiday gift bag with purchase of select items. This definitely makes gift-giving a whole lot easier. Cleanlogic products make great holiday gifts or stocking stuffers. 

GIVEAWAY!!!

Our friends from Cleanlogic have offered a gift set for one lucky reader to win. Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway  

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on November 1, 2020. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!
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How To Manage Your Time

Getting to the end of your week and wondering why you haven't made a dent in your to-do list can be frustrating. While you can't spin time out of thin air, there are strategies to managing the time you do have more efficiently.
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Write It Down

If you're not sure where all your time is going, keep a log for a week. It may seem tedious to track every activity but you'll have powerful insights when you're done. You may be surprised by how much time you're losing to scrolling apps or watching TV. You don't need to eliminate these activities but you can be mindful of how much of your day they're eating. Habits or automatic behaviors are hard to see when you're in them. Writing them down forces you to be honest. You can also look at your phone to see where all your screen time is going but ideally, this isn't your whole day.

Pay Someone Else 

If you've taken stock of how your time is being spent and there's simply nowhere to cut back, consider hiring someone for tasks you don't enjoy. Get your weekends back and find a neighborhood kid to cut your grass. Use a meal delivery service for those nights you'd rather not cook.

Plan Ahead

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. It's a cliche, but it's also true. Write down your goals for the day. You can do this at night or in the morning, just make sure you do it. Another mantra is 'eat the frog.' Take on your biggest chore first thing in the day. You'll be more likely to accomplish it when you're still fresh.
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Get Healthy

Your brain needs to function properly to make decisions. Poor diet, lack of exercise and too much alcohol can all contribute to a less than ideal mental state. A sugar high can rob you of as much as five hours of productive thinking. Replacing bad habits with healthy ones helps you maintain focus.

Get Organized

Even laser-like focus won't save you any time if your priorities are all over the place. Organize your files, organize your goals, organize your bathroom, organize anything that feels cluttered and messy. Having a system lets you spend less time hunting for things and more time doing what you intend to do.
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Stop Procrastinating

Most time wasting activities are just another form of procrastination. If you're having a hard time getting started try devoting just ten minutes to a task. Once you're moving, you'll find that continuing isn't as hard as you'd thought.

Examine Your Values 

When all else fails, take a long hard look at why you're doing what you're doing. Are you in the wrong job? Can you ask for less hours? Could you make more money doing something else? Sometimes change is required to get where you want to go.

Managing your time is a skill that takes practice. Evaluating your habits and making meaningful changes can help you make the most of your day and ultimately your life.

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Top 4 Types of Cosmetic Dentistry You Should Know About

If you’ve been feeling less than enthused with your smile lately, you may have been thinking about Gainesville cosmetic dentistry. Teeth can get chipped, stained, discolored, worn down, misaligned and more over time, and cosmetic dentistry can provide solutions that restore your smile and your self-confidence. Whether you have concerns about chips, cracks and misalignment, or are simply searching for a flawless Hollywood smile, there’s likely to be a procedure that can help such as same day implants whitening, veneers, etc. If you’re unsure which type of cosmetic dentistry you should look into, there are a few difference popular procedures you should keep in mind.

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1. Dental Implants

If you’re missing a tooth, dental implants can be inserted directly into the bone socket to lay the foundation for a replacement later on. These implants are usually made of titanium and allow your jawbone to heal and grow around the implant. Unfortunately, dental implants tend to be on the pricier side, with some procedures costing up to $3,000 a pop. However, the growth around the implant usually ensures that it’s embedded well, allowing you to get a replacement tooth securely, so the cost could potentially be well worth it in the long run.

2. Teeth Whitening

While teeth naturally occur in several different shades, damage over the years can sometimes cause unsightly discoloration. Regular coffee, tea or wine drinking, for instance, can stain your teeth. If you’d like a brighter smile, consider teeth whitening. You can get this done professionally at your dentist’s office for longer-lasting results than with home kits. This is something many people would like to change about their teeth, and thankfully, teeth whitening also happens to be one of the simplest and cheapest dental procedures!

3. Porcelain Veneers

If you’ve ever looked at a celebrity and wondered how they get their teeth so straight and perfect, there’s a good chance they have porcelain veneers. Veneers are essentially thin layers of durable porcelain that cover up enamel imperfections. If your teeth are chipped, stained or cracked, getting veneers could be a straightforward way to achieve the Hollywood-style smile of your dreams.
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4. Dentures

Finally, if you’re missing a lot of your natural teeth and have experienced problems with eating, speaking or facial sagging, you may want to consider getting dentures. Common among older adults, dentures can restore essential oral functions and your self-confidence all at once. Particularly if you’ve suffered significant degrees of tooth decay, are experiencing gum issues like swelling or simply haven’t been visiting the dentist twice a year, it may be a good idea to ask your dentist whether dentures are right for you.

Teeth are essential to eating and speaking, but can also make a big difference in self-confidence. If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about your smile and are ready to make a change for the better, cosmetic dentistry could just be the solution you need. Whether you need implants, dentures or are simply interesting in veneers or whitening, there's likely to be an answer to your dental woes. Keep these popular options in mind and you’re sure to find the right fix for your smile!

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Advantages of Using the Best Nitric Oxide Supplement

Nitric oxide is produced naturally by human cells and it is one of the vital molecules for maintaining the appropriate functioning of blood vessels. It is a vasodilator. It eases the inner muscles of the blood vessels thereby widening it. This results in an increase in blood flow and also lowers the blood pressure significantly.   

The popularity of these supplements has shot up in recent years. It is preferred for its unparalleled ability in relaxing blood vessels and thereby increasing the blood flow. Its pills are preferred by athletes and bodybuilders as it can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the cells. This in turn promises a significant boost in the energy levels in the body.  

These supplements are immensely popular these days. Most of these do not consist of nitric oxide. Instead, these consist of compounds that can help produce nitric oxide in the cells thereby boosting the performance and overall health of the body. 


How do they work? 
The most common nitric oxide supplements available in the market are L-citrulline and L-arginine. These are amino acids and are present in diary and meat products. However, the quantity of amino acids present in these is not sufficient to result in a dramatic improvement in any condition or for the purpose one would be consuming it for. This has increased the demand for such supplements which are available both in the form of power and as a pill.  

As per the scientists, nitric oxide widens the blood vessels in the body. This thereby boosts the flow of blood for improving the performance. Taking these supplements has a wide range of benefits. Find out more on the importance of nitric oxide here.    

Advantages

      1. Decreases muscle soreness 
Athletes and bodybuilders usually experience muscle soreness after a strenuous workout session. The soreness is usually felt during 24-72 hours after an exercise session. Taking these supplements decreases muscle soreness by boosting the production of nitric oxide in the body. This further boosts the blood flow through the active muscles and also increases nutrient delivery for compensating with muscle fatigue experienced.  

      2. Lowers blood pressure
Individuals with high blood pressure cannot synthesize nitric oxide to the max in their bodies. The force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries results in high blood pressure. 

The issues can result in kidney or disease over time. Having these effective supplements can lower blood pressure significantly. Follow this link to learn more about the heart benefits of nitric oxide supplements - https://www.webmd.com/heart/arginine-heart-benefits-and-side-effects#1   

      3. Enhances performance
Nitric oxide is a critical component involved in many cell processes. It helps in widening the blood vessels which is also referred to as vasodilation. This furthermore increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles after a workout session. This is the reason why they are immensely popular amongst bodybuilders and athletes.  

      4. Help in management of Type 2 Diabetes
Production of nitric oxide is impaired in individuals who are suffering from Type 2 diabetes. This contributes to poor health of blood vessels which in turn can result in high blood pressure and also heart and kidney diseases over time. Supplements that are rich in nitric oxide can prove to be immensely beneficial in preventing the undesirable effects of Type 2 Diabetes. 

Do they actually work? 

Several research studies have been done to study the efficacy of nitric oxide supplements. Its effect of vasodilation has been extensively studied and is immensely beneficial in increasing the blood flow in the blood vessels. This can lead to enhanced blood flow which in turn boosts the performance and recovery after a strenuous workout session.  

These supplements primarily consist of amino acids that trigger the synthesis of nitric oxide within the cells. Taking nitric oxide pills can result in a noticeable difference during recovery or in enhancing performance during strenuous activities. 

Several studies have also established that there is a significant link between nitrate levels in the body and improvements in performance. These supplements can also improve tolerance to anaerobic and aerobic exercise in people who are either moderately trained or aren’t in their best form.   

Side effects 

Any supplement when taken in an appropriate dosage can offer the best benefits to the users. Anything taken in access will not offer the results being sought. Moreover, taking excess nitric oxide supplements can alter the functions of the kidneys if you are already on a diet that is rich in nitric oxide. 

In these cases, there will be a significant reduction in the overall performance as the kidneys are under stress to process the high levels of nitrates in the body. It is best to adhere to the dosage levels prescribed by the manufacturer of the supplement that you are using.   

In summary 

People prefer using nitric oxide supplements for numerous reasons. Many of them don’t even have substantial scientific research to back such claims. For instance, apart from the above-mentioned benefits, these supplements are taken to boost weight loss, for improving lung function, improving recovery after major injury or trauma, and in healing diabetic foot ulcers. 

Several users have reported significant results after using nitric oxide supplements for additional benefits. However, a scientific study is still needed to back such claims. Overall, these supplements are indeed beneficial in boosting performance and in improving the overall health of an individual.   
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6 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your OB

Choosing an obstetrician is not a decision to be taken lightly. You’ll want to choose a doctor who not only has great qualities but who also has an excellent track record when it comes to prenatal care and delivery. According to Hankey Law Office, a group of Indianapolis birth injury lawyers, “Often, birth injuries are the result of either improper/insufficient prenatal treatment or are caused by doctors who fail to react quickly enough to complications that arise during childbirth.” Here’s what to look for when choosing an obstetrician.
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1. Specific Advantages
It’s true that you’ll likely want to find an obstetrician that is available through your health insurance plan, but that doesn’t mean that you have to settle for anything less than what you consider to be the best doctor for you. First off, you may prefer to have a female doctor over a male or vice-versa. Next, the obstetrician’s access to your hospital of choice may also be important. After-hours availability is another advantage you may want. And of course, having a doctor with an awesome track record should be non-negotiable in a decision as important as this.

2. Trusted Recommendations
When looking for the perfect obstetrician, you may want to ask trusted friends or family members for their recommendations — especially those who are currently seeing an OB or who have recently given birth. If you’ve been seeing a gynecologist, you can also ask her for a recommendation.

3. Stellar Patient Reviews  
Although many people don’t take the time to write a review online if they are satisfied with their doctor’s care, many people will take the time if they are upset or have had a negative experience. And those negative reviews can provide a wealth of insight to you. Do yourself a favor and take the time to research obstetricians you are considering as your doctor so you can identify any potential red flags. Health Grades — a site that houses doctor reviews and ratings — is a good place to start looking.
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4. Location of Office 
The location of the OB’s office is another factor to consider, especially if you live in a city that becomes clogged with heavy traffic throughout the day. If you’re still working while pregnant, this factor could become even more important. If the OB’s office is far away or will take considerable time to reach from your workplace due to traffic, you may want to exclude that particular doctor.

5. A Comfortable and Confident Feeling at the First Meeting
Even if a doctor ticks all your boxes and comes highly recommended, is on top of the best practices in pre-natal care and birthing and has a flawless track record, that doesn’t mean that she’s the doctor for you. You absolutely need to feel comfortable and confident with your obstetrician. For example, if you feel like you’re not being heard or you and the doctor have a major difference of opinions on OB-related issues, those are red flags. Bottom line: If you don’t feel comfortable and confident about selecting a certain obstetrician, go with your gut and do not be afraid to look elsewhere.

6. The Type of Practice You Want to Deal With
If you pick an OB who operates a solo medical practice, then you’ll see him every time you visit. This also means that you likely won’t have to worry about giving birth with someone other than your OB. However, if you see an OB who is part of a partnership or medical group practice, you may see a different doctor at different appointments, and you may not know which doctor will end up delivering your baby. This type of situation may or may not be an issue for you. Just be aware that you may not prefer to deal with some of the OBs in the practice for one reason or another, whereas others are perfectly fine.

What Do You Do If You Have a Hard Time Choosing?

Who you should choose as your obstetrician may not be as clear cut as you had hoped once you narrow down your choices. If this is the case, make sure you schedule an in-person meeting if you haven’t already to get a feel for the OB’s personality. You can also ask these important questions at that time:

  • How do you feel about natural childbirth? or How do you feel about epidurals?
  • What type of fetal monitoring do you use?
  • How often do you induce labor?
  • What is your opinion on breastfeeding?
  • How often do you perform C-section deliveries?
  • What labor and post-natal benefits does the hospital you are affiliated with offer patients?
  • What happens if you’re not available when I’m ready to deliver?
We hope these tips have helped you. 

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Don't Feel Bad About Getting a Facelift

In many aspects of life, self-improvement is applauded. If we do not achieve the results we want on a test, we study until we know the material. If we are not physically fit, we can exercise to improve our strength. These actions are applauded.

However, some people feel self-conscious or embarrassed about taking actions to improve their physical appearance by getting a facelift. This article will show why getting a facelift should never cause anyone to feel shame. A facelift is no different than any other act of self-improvement. Even better, in many instances, facelifts provide long term positive consequences.
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Self-esteem for a healthy life

From the time we are children, we are taught to value ourselves based on our looks. Babies and children who are perceived as being more attractive are favored by parents and teachers alike. It is little wonder, then, that studies show that self-esteem is significantly correlated with attractiveness, especially in women.

Self-esteem has a wide-ranging influence on other aspects of physical and mental health. Studies indicate that low self-esteem in adolescents is correlated with limited economic output and increased criminal behavior throughout adulthood. While self-esteem is a complicated issue based on much more than just behavior, it makes sense for us to take whatever actions we can to improve our self-esteem.

As stated by Dr. Andrew Jacono, facelifts can help rejuvenate and improve appearance, which is strongly linked to self-esteem. The American Psychological Association reports that a year after plastic surgery, a majority of patients were happier with the body part that had been operated on. This suggests that plastic surgery has more than a fleeting impact on our happiness.
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You deserve to be pampered

In this day and age, self-care is recognized as an important part of life. Our culture encourages us to take time for ourselves by going to the spa, getting manicures, and eating healthy. Yet despite an increased cultural emphasis on self-care, most adults are not holistically caring for themselves. About 18% of American adults experience anxiety regularly. The majority do not receive any medical treatment for their anxiety.

Making self-care a part of your routine can be one way to decrease your chances of experiencing anxiety. Getting a facelift can be part of this holistic culture of self-care and pampering.

Take control of your own destiny

A hundred years ago, most people simply accepted difficult facts of life and tried to deal with them. Many illnesses did not have effective treatments, and death and disability were a regular part of life.

Nowadays, we don't simply accept that unpleasant facts of life must exist. We deal with difficulties head-on and try to solve them rather than live with them. Doctors have cured countless diseases and global life expectancy has shot up. No one looks at this as unnatural.

A facelift is no different. A hundred years ago, men and women had no choice but to accept growing older. Even if they were internally dissatisfied with their appearance, there was nothing to be done about wrinkles and lumps.

Things are different now. Medicine has given us the ability to take control of our own appearance. Facelifts are a well-developed and advanced way of dealing with an unpleasant fact of life. They shouldn't be perceived differently than any other medical treatment that is designed to enhance the quality of life.
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An investment in your future

Like it or not, looks are important when it comes to professional success. According to studies, attractiveness begins to have an impact on career outcomes as early as high school, when more attractive candidates are given advantages in some parts of the college admissions process. Candidates who are perceived as more physically attractive are more likely to get hired, promoted, and have higher levels of income. Once they are hired, research indicates that attractive men and women are more likely to succeed in cooperative settings like the modern office.

This may all seem unfair, but we cannot change the system in which we live. We can, however, change the way that we are perceived in that system. A facelift can help improve a person's level of attractiveness and potentially lead to greater success in the workplace.

Facelifts can be a point of pride

As you can see, facelifts should never be seen as something to feel bad about. People who choose to get facelifts are taking positive action to improve their self-esteem and earning potential. They are taking their destinies into their own hands using a modern and efficient medical procedure.

Seen in this light, facelifts are not something shameful, but a point of pride. A person who gets a facelift is proclaiming that she takes care of her appearance and that she values herself enough to give herself a little luxury once in a while.
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