Common Symptoms and Causes of Migraine Headache

Migraine is a common problem that is faced by many adults (sometimes even kids) in our country. Migraine is an extreme headache problem that causes nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. This headache can last from a couple of hours to 2 days and sometimes even much longer. Although the reason behind these migraine attacks is not confirmed by the doctors, they say that these headaches occur due to change in the flow of blood to your brain and the genes from your parents.

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People sometimes tend to get confused between normal headaches and migraine headaches. Not knowing the difference between headaches and migraines, one does not get proper medication from the doctor and thus, suffers a lot. While in headaches, one experiences a dull and overall pressure throughout the forehead or scalp. Whereas, while in migraine, one experiences a sharp and intense pain on one side of their head along with nausea, blind spots, and vomiting.

Here are some of the common symptoms that tell us we have a problem with migraine:

1. You may experience the symptoms a day or two before the actual migraine pain. Symptoms like irritability, stiffness in the neck, fatigue, and depression can sometimes indicate that you are going to get migraine headaches soon. You can start the medication at the earlier stage to avoid extreme conditions.
2. Other symptoms may include sensitivity to smell which causes nausea and vomiting.
3. You also start getting irritated from bright lights and your vision may also get blurred.
4. You may even feel the tingling sensation in your arms, legs or face. 
5. There might be a loss of appetite as well.
6. You may experience this headache once in a month or two but if not treated properly, the number may increase to you getting migraine headaches 3-4 times a month.

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Although it may seem like the migraine headaches are not in your hands and may occur whenever they want. But if you notice, there is a pattern and signs that lead to the headaches. You can contact your headache doctor and tell them about your symptoms so that he can start with the proper medication. Here are certain things that trigger something from within and cause migraine:

1. Sometimes a change in weather can disrupt the flow of blood and cause severe headaches. Change in temperature does not suit everyone and can cause many health problems, migraine being one of them
2. Stress is one of the major reasons that cause migraines. All of these things; stress, anxiety, and migraines are interlinked with each other. When you are stressed or too depressed, your brain releases the chemicals that lead to migraines.
3. Some food products may also be responsible for triggering a migraine. Sometimes food containing nitrates may also be responsible for your migraine. Getting too addicted or even withdrawing from caffeine may change the flow of your blood vessels and cause headaches. 
4. Certain habits like excess of smoking or drinking alcohol can cause regular migraine headaches.
5. Sudden changes in your diet or lifestyle can also be the reason for your problem.
6. Some medications can also disturb your blood vessels and cause this problem of migraine headaches.

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. 

7 Warning Signs & Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Nutritional deficiencies are always harmful to health because they put your system out of balance. The best way to address them is by being aware of the symptoms so that you can detect them early. Amongst the key nutrients that you should not miss out on is vitamin B12. It is significant for making red blood cells and supports the nervous system as well. You cannot ignore the role of red blood as they carry around oxygen in the body. Hence, vitamin B12 is vital to keep you in good health.

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However, its deficiency is common because the human body does not produce this vitamin on its own, rather depends on food sources. So you must keep a close eye on certain warning signs and symptoms that indicate its deficiency. These may be a little difficult to assess because they are quite similar to those of some other nutritional deficiencies. Awareness, therefore, can make all the difference to timely diagnosis. Here are the ones that you should be watchful about.

Pale Skin
If your skin appears pale in color, you may be deficient in vitamin B12. This usually happens when your body fails to produce enough red blood cells due to the lack of this nutrient. The condition is known as megaloblastic anemia, which may subsequently lead to jaundice. The RBC’s become weak so that the body breaks them down quickly. It results in the release of a brownish substance called bilirubin, which is responsible for pale skin.

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Fatigue
Fatigue is another common sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. Again the inadequacy of RBCs is the reason behind the weakness or fatigue you experience. When your body does not have enough of the cells, the organs do not get the amount of oxygen they need. As a result, you end up feeling weak and tired. If you constantly get this feeling, do not overlook it because the concern may be more serious than you think.

Changes to Mobility
When this deficiency is left untreated, it may damage your nervous system and compromise with your mobility. You may even lose your balance and coordination.  This symptom is usually visible in the elderly though even younger people with a severe, untreated deficiency may also fall prey. The best way to address it is by taking vitamin B12 shots because dietary sources will not be enough. It is better to get diagnosis and treatment in time before such an adverse situation arises.

Tingling Sensation in the Limbs
Another warning sign that you should watch out for is a tingling sensation in your hands and feet. Once again, this symptom is a serious issue because it indicates nerve damage. Vitamin B12 helps in the production of myelin, a substance that shields the nerves and enables them to transmit sensations. Without enough of myelin, your nerves become damaged and are unable to function properly. This often leads to “pins and needles” sensation in the limbs.

Breathlessness and Dizziness
B12 deficiency can cause breathlessness and dizziness, particularly on exertion. This happens because your body gets low on oxygen because there are not enough RBCs to supply it. The signs may also be accompanied by a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Besides vitamin B12 deficiency, these signs may indicate some other conditions as well. So you should seek medical advice sooner rather than later.

Mouth Pain and Ulcers
Vitamin B12 affects oral health too. Deficiency can, therefore, cause a series of oral health issues. The most common one is glossitis, a condition results in the tongue becoming red and swollen.  Ulcers and a burning sensation in the mouth are some other indications of the deficiency of this vitamin. Don’t ignore these issues if you have been facing them for some time.

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Mood Swings
Beyond physical signs and symptoms, vitamin B12 deficiency may also appear as mood swings and irritability. You may even have problems thinking and reasoning clearly because the blood supply to the brain is hindered. In worse cases, the deficiency can elevate the risk of brain disorders such as dementia and depression. Low levels of B12 disrupt the signals to and from the brain, leading to such problems.

Now that you know about the common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, it can be easier to detect. While timely detection matters, remember that prevention is the best approach. The right dietary choices can protect you in the first place. At the same time, you can rely on supplements if you think that you are not getting enough from your diet. Before you start taking supplements, do take advice from a qualified practitioner.

5 Surprising Physical & Mental Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

Meditation is becoming progressively mainstream as more and more people find its wide-extending benefits. It is one wellness trend that shows no indications of disappearing. Though people have been doing meditation for ages, its efficacy has been verified by scientific research today.

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In the present world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings. Emotional over-burden generally brings stress and nervousness – and everyone knows the ruin this can unleash on our health. These days, specialists around the world agree that practicing a couple of minutes of care each day can have a significant effect. The physical and mental advantages of meditation are well-archived and exceptionally compelling. Here are a few of our top choices:

A Healthy Heart
Studies clearly prove that a daily meditation practice can improve blood flow, bring down the pulse and help keep up a healthy heart. Psychosomatic Medicine, a confided health distribution, has published an article that shows that persistent meditators have lower measures of lipid peroxide than non-meditators. Recent examinations have also shown that practicing mindfulness meditation helps in lowering blood pressure.

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A Stronger Immune System
The resistant framework, a vital part of the human body, is made out of a horde of natural process and structures whose activity is to battle disease and shield the body from outside creatures. As per the research completed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2003, frequent mindfulness sessions appeared to improve meditators’ immune system functions. They additionally delivered positive, enduring changes inside the cerebrum.

Helps Control Pain
Your perception of pain is related to your perspective and the effects of physical health on the mind can be raised in stressful conditions. For this circumstance meditator and non-meditators experienced similar reasons of pain, however, meditators showed a more noteworthy ability to cope with pain and even experienced lessen vibe of pain.

Improved Memory Retention
As we age memory loss to some extent is normal. In light of the context with the maturing populace, researchers presently accept that mindfulness practice can help support cerebrum functions and decelerate memory loss. Truth be told, research has demonstrated that ordinary 20-minute meditation sessions can support memory and improve cerebrum work in those with early dementia or other psychological issues.

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Enhanced Quality of Sleep
Better sleep is one of the most engaging physical advantages of mindfulness practice. We all know that what it's like to toss and turn – practically 50% of individuals overall experience the ill effects of sleep issues or something to that effect. 85% of laborers in the U.S. report having lost sleep on account of employment-related pressure. Studies prove that individuals who practice day-by-day meditation rest better and longer than non-meditators.

The recognition of Mindfulness meditation is expanding as the advantages of Mindfulness show great promise from every aspect to everybody. Often times, it's the easiest things that have a significant impact on our health and prosperity. Whether practiced daily or occasionally, mindfulness meditation can be a powerful way toward enhanced well-being throughout your lifespan.

How To Better Understand The Correct Food for Toddlers

Raising a toddler can be an immensely rewarding challenge for new parents. The toddler years are full of many changes and exciting developments in your child’s life. These changes can bring a great deal of joy to your life but also a great deal of stress.

Transitioning from caring for an infant to caring for a toddler can be a tricky process for those who are unfamiliar with what to expect. Food for toddlers is an area of particular interest for those new to toddler care. Here, we will look at some specific tips and advice on how to better understand the correct food for toddlers.

Let’s delve into this topic in more specific detail with some advice and recommendations.

Toddler Food Basics

Children start to accommodate new foods at different ages. At the one-year mark, toddlers should be able to tolerate cow’s milk and more solid foods. However, this transition point is somewhat arbitrary and can vary between children.

Remember that even though your child is becoming more independent by the day, you are still the caregiver responsible for all your child’s needs. They cannot think for themselves regarding what they should eat or how much of some things they should eat. Controlling portion sizes, especially of less healthy snacks, is an effective means of ensuring that your toddler develops healthy eating habits and avoids conditions like obesity and heart disease later in life.

One great place to start for nutritional advice is the government food guide. These guides often have explicit recommendations for how much of different types of foods your toddler should be consuming each day for optimal health. Using these guides may even give your own personal dietary habits a health boost. Eventually, making sure to plan healthy and nutrient-dense meals for your family can ensure the well-being of your entire household.

Toddler Milks

If your child is having difficulty in transitioning from breast milk to cow’s milk, toddler milks are a great stepping stone solution. While ideally, your child will be receiving more of their nutrition from solid foods during the toddler years, toddler milks can ensure that these needs are met as a temporary measure.

Toddler milks are made from a preparation that is similar to most infant formula with a cow’s milk foundation. These milks are full of vitamin D, iron, calcium, and many other nutrients that are essential to the healthy development of your toddler.

What To Avoid

There are some things that toddlers simply should not eat at their age. This is because some foods pose a choking or health hazard for young children. Whole grapes, for example, are slippery and may block your child’s windpipe if not consumed with care. Small and hard foods like peanuts or seeds may also present a hazard. If your child wants to enjoy such foods, be sure to chop them up sufficiently before offering them.

Always be mindful of how your child seems to be tolerating certain foods, especially foods that are commonly associated with allergies. Milk, peanuts, wheat, and shellfish are all foods to exercise caution around.

Find More Toddler Food Facts

The best way to ensure that your toddler receives the food and nutrition they need to thrive is to orient yourself towards continual learning and improvement. Nobody knows everything when it comes to proper toddler nutrition and optimal growth. Therefore, taking the time to go through a variety of sources and soliciting expert advice can serve you well. Always consult with your family physician before making any serious modifications to your child’s diet. Your toddler will be all the happier and healthier for your efforts.

New Eyeglasses Update

You might have read a few weeks back about my latest lifestyle change. I have become a new eyeglasses wearer. My vision has definitely changed a good bit in recent years, that's for sure. My main issue is with reading or seeing fine details up close. I was given a prescription for bifocals but was recommended to go with progressives. This turned out to be a huge mistake. I gave myself a solid couple of weeks to get used to them but just couldn't do it. I felt dizzy and disoriented most of the time while wearing them. I had the same issues when wearing the sunglasses which was a bad thing especially while driving.

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I went back to the eye doctor's office and explained my situation. They suggested that I go ahead and get single vision glasses and use readers for reading and computer/phone use. It took less than 24 hours, and I tested out my new glasses and sunglasses. What a difference! I could see without feeling dizzy. I did have to upgrade my readers from the old ones I had. I had no idea there was such a thing as multi-focus reading glasses. You don't have to constantly take them off to see things that are further away. I can see everything just as well as I can with the prescription glasses. This made me feel a bit annoyed because I spent a lot on the prescription specs. I guess at the end of the day I still needed to get my eyes checked by a professional.

Since I had to get the new eyeglasses and sunglasses made anyway, I went ahead and took advantage of my 30-day exchange time and got better frames for both. You can find prescription glasses on Overnight Glasses. I am so thankful that I can see everything so crisp and clear. Colors are so much more vibrant, and it's nice to see all of the little details I apparently have been missing for a while! I feel so much better overall. If you haven't gotten an eye exam this year yet, this is your friendly reminder to go book that appointment now. Have a great day, and thanks for stopping by.

Trying To Adjust To Seeing Things Differently

For as long as I can remember, I have had excellent vision. I was the type of person to find the tiniest details in photos, artwork, or in any real-life scenery. People would always be amazed and say things like, "How on earth are you able to see that?" Fast forward to my middle 40s. Things aren't quite as crystal clear as they used to be. I have experienced more stress, anxiety, and depression in the last few years than I felt like I could handle. It was as if I cried and stressed the days away for 3 years straight. It was affecting my life in many ways.

One thing I noticed was that I had trouble seeing clearly when I was on the computer, phone or reading a magazine. I could barely see the menu when we were dining out in a restaurant. I spoke with my doctor and she suggested that I get some reading glasses. I bought some from my pharmacy and saw instant results. I could see clearly again! Reading glasses did the trick, and I could put them on and take them off as needed. This seemed easy enough. I did this for a little over a year and things changed again. I started getting headaches out of the blue and felt so much tension in my neck and shoulders.

I knew something wasn't right, and finally made an appointment for an eye exam. As soon as I walked into the building, I was overwhelmed. The friendly staff member directed me over to fill out the paperwork and select frames for eyeglasses. This was so different for me since it was the first time knowing that I was going to need glasses. The appointment itself was eye-opening. I had no idea how my vision declined as much as it did over the past couple of years. When the doctor switched different lenses to see if I was able to see clearly, it hit me-- my vision was terrible. It turned out that I had been compensating for what I wasn't seeing clearly or seeing at all.

The doctor then casually tells me, "I'm going to get you squared away so I'm writing you a prescription for bifocals." I was gut-punched because I really didn't know it was that bad. I took some deep breaths and sat with the specialist to get measurements done and make the selections that would be most beneficial to me. I was gut-punched once more when I got the final bill. YIKES! My husband was with me and calmed me down by telling me that I take care of everyone else, and it was time for me to take care of myself. I was told that my glasses would take approximately 2 weeks to be made and delivered.

For the next two weeks, I ended in so much pain from eye strain that led to neck and shoulder tension. I was a mess! I felt like I had to take 3 naps a day which is so not me. I'm thankful for my family who pitches in when I am down. They helped me a whole lot, especially the little one since he is with me all day long. I was super nervous when the call came in that my glasses were ready to be picked up. I sat at the counter with the salesperson and tried my glasses and sunglasses on. As soon as I placed the glasses on my face I felt really weird. I was like wait, I can't see properly. They told me because they are progressive lenses and I will have to get used to them.

As I left the building, I placed my pricey prescription sunglasses on and was hit with vibrant views. Everything around me was extra bright and colorful. I was seeing as clearly as I could when I was a teenager. I almost cried because I didn't realize how much I have been missing out on seeing. The eyeglasses have been more difficult to adjust to since I have to wear them all day long. I can't quite figure out how to tilt my head to be able to see up close. Even being on the computer has been difficult. I am still feeling a bit of fatigue, dizziness, and headaches, but they are supposed to clear up in the next week or so. I almost wanted to simply not wear them at all.

For now, I am thankful to be able to see details, vibrant colors, and having overall clarity. It will take time to adjust to wearing glasses, especially with different strengths for distance and close-up vision. I am going to be patient and know that I will be feeling like myself again soon enough. I'm sharing this post today for anyone who might be struggling with their vision and might not even know they are. Do not put off getting an eye exam! We aren't getting any younger.

If you have any advice for me, I'm open to it. Thank you so much for stopping by today.

How To Take Your Life Back From Crohn's Disease

Does it feel as though your Crohn’s disease is taking over your life? Here’s a medical food that could help you take back control.

Crohn's disease is something that affects an estimated 780,000 adults in the United States as of 2015. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which triggers chronic inflammation in a person's digestive tract. It not only results in discomfort at home and going about your daily life, but it can also lead to hospital visits and stays if the symptoms get out of control.

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If you are living with a Crohn’s diagnosis, whether it be a new one or you’ve been living with it for years now, and you feel as though your disease is dictating your life, it may be time to take back control. A product by the name of UltrainflamX Plus 360 could be the perfect item to add to your treatment routine, helping you to get a better handle on your symptoms and reduce the pain and inflammation you are currently suffering from. This medical food offers all kinds of benefits, as we will examine.

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Before we look at the benefits of UltrainflamX Plus 360 it’s important to understand what Crohn’s disease is and how it affects you. As mentioned it is an IBD that can result in severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, fatigue, malnutrition, and weight loss. These can all be extremely uncomfortable symptoms and can prevent a person from going about their regular daily activities and enjoying the foods they love.

While anyone can develop the disease, it is most commonly diagnosed in people between 15-35 years of age. Statistics show that it is more common in females than in males. As for risk factors, those who are smokers are twice as likely to develop it, but family history also plays a part.

How UltrainflamX Plus 360 Can Help

UltraInflamX Plus 360 is a really unique product from Metagenics that is classified as a medical food. It has been specially formulated to offer nutritional support. Its rice protein make-up makes it very easy to digest, which is vital to those with Crohn's disease.

It is ideal for those with IBD, including those with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, as it targets pain and inflammation making the symptoms much less. It also supports healthy cytokine and eicosanoid metabolism thanks to ingredients such as ginger and rosemary. There are even antioxidant benefits, which again anyone can benefit from. Doctors have even recommended the product to patients to deal with various gut and inflammation-related issues.

UltraInflamX Plus 360 is available in a powder form, which can be mixed with your choice of juice or chilled water. Simply add two scoops of the powder to 8ozs of fluid and then shake it/mix it well, until the powder is dissolved. For best results, it is recommended that you have two servings per day.

Start to Get the Relief You Deserve

While there are a number of treatments that a person can use in order to get relief from Crohn’s and get it under control, typically it’s best to use a few in conjunction with each other for maximum results. Adding UltraInflamX Plus 360 to your regime can certainly help to speed those results along.

A Healthy Diet: 3 Health Benefits of Non Alcoholic Red Wine

There is a lot of evidence that points to the many health benefits of drinking a glass of red wine. It contains antioxidants, it helps with heart health and it can lower cholesterol. These are just a few of the noted health benefits.

If you prefer not to drink alcohol, no worries. You can drink non alcoholic red wine and still enjoy some of the same benefits. In fact, some studies suggest that non-alcoholic wine might actually have stronger health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of those benefits.

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1. Lowering blood pressure

Both red wine and non-alcoholic red wine contain antioxidants called polyphenols. This antioxidant helps to boost levels of the body’s nitric oxide, which helps to lower blood pressure. This happens when the nitric oxide helps the blood vessels to relax, and it allows more blood to reach the heart and other organs.

Studies have also found that polyphenols are good for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This can be helpful for those who are combating Type 2 diabetes, as well as being beneficial for heart health.

Interestingly, some studies show that the alcoholic version does not help as much as non-alcoholic wine. The theory is that the addition of alcohol somehow diminishes the health properties of the antioxidants.

2. Fewer Calories

Many people spend a good deal of time at the gym and trying to eat a healthy diet. This may be because you want to lose some weight or you are just trying to live a healthy lifestyle. With all the health benefits of red wine, is it possible to fit in a glass with your diet? Yes!

In fact, non alcoholic red wine has 3 times fewer calories than their alcoholic versions. This is a win for those looking to add glass in for the antioxidant benefits. It is absolutely possible to enjoy a nightly glass of non-alcoholic red wine, and you can easily fit those few calories into your daily diet and exercise plan.

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3. More natural ingredients

Not only are non alcoholic red wines full of heart-healthy benefits and fewer calories, but they also contain better ingredients. When alcohol is added to wine, usually sugar, artificial colors, and dyes are added as well. The non-alcoholic red wine is not likely to contain these ingredients. This can be beneficial to those who are sensitive to artificial colors and dyes.

Drinking a non alcoholic red wine allows you to enjoy the taste of wine, benefit from the antioxidants and not fill up on sugar or empty calories. Some people also feel that their sensitivity to artificial dyes and colors are what contributes to their headaches when drinking wine. So, people with these sensitivities can continue to enjoy a glass of non-alcoholic wine without fearing a headache.

Conclusion:
Non alcoholic red wine is a great alternative to an alcoholic version. You will still reap the same health benefits, consume 3 times fewer calories, and will not be bothered by artificial dyes or colors.

When To Call An Emergency Dentist

One of the most painful and scary times in a person's life can be with a dental issue. There are many people who look at some situations with tooth pain to be not important and something that would just go away, however, some of the situations actually signify a dental emergency. Therefore, it is better to be seen faster when the issue arises rather than wait till later, a can mean the health of your life.

Some Signs Of Emergency Dental Situations

Mouth pain and toothaches can occur in a variety and degree of pain level for each individual. Understanding and acknowledging why it is an emergency and what is not can help you not only save money but help you avoid the pain more effectively. WebMD voices, any dental emergency like an injury to the teeth or gums can be potentially serious and should not be ignored. Ignoring a dental problem can increase the risk of permanent damage as well as the need for more extensive and expensive treatment later on. The signs mentioned below are some diagnoses that you could use an emergency dentist as soon as possible.

• Loose Or Movable Teeth: There are only certain times that having a loose tooth in your life where it is acceptable, usually this starts at an early age when your adult teeth are growing in. However, as an adult, if you have a loose tooth, it could indicate there may be a tooth entry and it could cause severe pain and you should see a dentist immediately.

Some people come to assume that if their teeth appear to be in the proper condition they may not need a dentist. However, loose teeth can cause life-altering problems if not properly cared for. For example, it can cause you to stop eating or speaking and could impair the nerves that are within your jaw and over time the tooth damage will get worse. According to Forbes, the ADA study also found that: More than 30% of young adults have untreated tooth decay (the highest of any age group), 35% have trouble biting and chewing, Some 38% of this age group find life in general "less satisfying" due to teeth and mouth problems. Having this unbearable toothache resulting from decay will warrant a visit to an emergency dentist, as stated by Val Daniyar, a cosmetic dentist from Naples, FL.

• Signs Of Infection: This is also a good indicator that you have tooth damage and infection will act as a loose tooth. If you get the treatment done as soon as possible you can potentially avoid having the teeth extracted out of your mouth and avoid the infection from spreading. American Dental Association shares, the mouth is a gateway into your body's overall health.

• Bleeding Gums And Toothache: Almost every dentist requires you to floss your teeth after you brush, however, most people are not used to doing this on a daily basis. If you go to brush your teeth and your gums are bleeding, it could be an indicator of gum disease.

Almost everyone who gets gum disease, if left untreated could leave their teeth the inability to be restored properly. Gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and among pregnant women, it is correlated with lower birth weights for their babies. On another note, if you have any signs of any toothache seen a dentist is essential because there could be various indicators and other causes behind each tooth week.

• Abscess And Swollen Jaw: For people who have an abscessed tooth may not understand the severity that a can do to your well-being and health. If you have an abscessed tooth seeing a dentist right away is vital to your life.

For example, abscessed teeth are connected close to your nerve endings which are found at the roots in your teeth, which are directly connected to your brain. In addition to fevers, swollen jaws, mouth pus and more problems that can lead to life-altering habits, getting an infection drain from a dental abscess requires a treatment plan, as well as draining the entire blockage to get rid of any bacteria that is starting to grow in the mouth.

• Recurring Headaches: Headaches have been known to be caused by lifestyles and other causes, however, if you have chronic headaches it could mean that your mouth and teeth are the underlying problems that are causing the chronic headaches. Seeing a dentist can keep you the appropriate amount of treatment such as a mouth guard to help prevent grinding and constant jaw tension, which is a chronic headache cause.

In addition, if you also notice you are becoming more tired or if your mouth has a metal-like taste, this could indicate signs of infection or if one of your teeth becomes cracked. These are also indicators that can cause headaches to continue and become problematic for those who are experiencing them. Seeing a dentist right away can give you the treatment that has proven to fix these problems instantly.

When Is The Right Time To Call The Emergency Dentist?

There are many indicators to understand when the right time to call a dentist. Any of the signs mentioned above, calling a dentist this is possible can help eliminate the underlying issue sooner rather than later. Other examples are if any over-the-counter pain relievers do not help relieve any tooth pain, calling the dentist could potentially help you save your teeth and your health. If you have knocked out a tooth, for another example, a dentist has the ability to re-plant teeth into sockets professionally, avoiding futuristic problems that could occur. It is important to understand to not touch any damage to or avoid eating when a tooth is knocked out as it could damage the roots or cause the tooth to not be held be put back into the socket.

Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, if there are any signs, such as tooth pain, knocked out teeth, infections, or bleeding gums, it could mean that there are underlying issues that are the cause of the problem. Seeing an emergency dentist right away could help you save on money, time, and future problems that could affect your health and lifestyle.

Teen Plastic Surgery: How Ethical Is It?

As advancements continue to be made to plastic surgery, it becomes more and more attractive to potential patients. It's no wonder that the number of plastic and cosmetic surgeries across the United States continues to rise. Adults are receiving these surgeries at a record level, but they aren’t the only ones. Teens and young adults are also receiving plastic surgeries, which has drawn the ire of certain groups. Some argue that teens are too young to fully understand the risks and dangers of plastic surgery. This begs the question, exactly how ethical is teen plastic surgery?

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Competency

The biggest gripe people have with teen plastic surgery is the competency of the teen. Are they old enough to fully understand what they are undertaking? Are they old enough to fully understand both the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as everything that is going to take place? There’s a reason why minors are typically barred by U.S law from entering things such as contracts, as the vast majority of minors lack the competency to make their own decisions when it comes to matters this big. Plastic surgery is something very serious and could forever change your life, and if a teen is unable to fully grasp its severity then it is a major issue.

Physical Maturity

Another major issue surrounding plastic surgery is the physical development and maturity of the teen. Some physical deformities that people seek to correct will either go away over time or will simply be grown out of. In addition, what a teen may consider as a major physical detriment may actually be not that important or serious once the patient has grown up or maturity. For example, a teen probably shouldn’t undergo breast augmentation surgery if they are not fully grown yet. Although teens may want to have any deformity or scars removed in their teen years in order to avoid things such as bullying, it may be best to wait until they are older and more physically and emotionally mature.

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Parents’ Involvement

The involvement of parents in a teen plastic surgery case is another major issue that people have with the ethics of teen plastic surgery. Is the plastic surgery actually something that the teen wants, or is it something that the parent wants? Are the parents pressuring the teen into getting the surgery? On the flipside, if the parents are unsupportive of the surgery then it could create a potential parent-child rift. Unless plastic surgery for the teen is something that both the teen and parent can fully agree upon then it could cause major issues for the family.

Post Operation

Other major problems could stem from teen plastic surgery. It's no secret that teens and young people often have a feeling of invincibility. These people also don’t like spending extended periods resting or out of commission, something that could lead to some problems during post-op recovery. Teens may lack the attitude or discipline to follow the post-operation plan that the surgeon typically gives, something that could raise the risk of surgery and be potentially dangerous to the patient.

How to Lose Your Belly Fat In A Healthy Way

For people with a pear-shaped body, losing weight can be a bit of a challenge. While it is easy to lose weight around the upper part of the body, fat stored in the lower part of the body’s midsection is more difficult to deal with.

That’s not to say that it is impossible to lose weight when you have a pear-shaped body. More importantly, it is not impossible to lose weight in a healthy manner. These next few tips and tricks we are about to discuss will help you lose lower-belly fat healthily.

Drink More Water

Drinking more water has two benefits that help you lose weight and stay healthy. First of all, consuming more water allows your body to stay full. In fact, drinking a glass of water before a meal can help reduce the portion of your meal considerably.

Drinking water also helps the body metabolize more optimally. This simple step helps reduce the amount of fat stored in the lower part of your midsection, which in turn reduces the weight that gets added to the section after your meals.

Besides, drinking more water is about as easy as it gets. It is an effective way to lose weight while improving your body metabolism and overall health. There are even specific benefits on your skin and heart health to be gained from drinking more water.

Have a Full Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it is more important when you are trying to lose weight. A suitable breakfast added to your diet has the ability to change your eating habits for the rest of the day. A full breakfast is highly recommended.

You want a lot of fiber in your breakfast. Wheat and other food items contain enough fiber, and they are perfect for breakfast. You also want to add plenty of proteins, especially if you want to feel full through the morning.

Additionally, you may want to add fruit to your breakfast menu. A glass of fresh orange juice, slices of apple or watermelon, or a small bowl of fruit salad could turn a simple breakfast into one that can power you beyond lunchtime.

Avoid Certain Drinks

Some drinks are best avoided if you are trying to lose weight. Sugary beverages are your worst enemy when you have a pear-shaped body and you want to lose weight. The extra calories you consume with every sip will cancel all of the healthy nutrients you consume throughout the day.

Of course, soda isn’t the only type of drink you need to avoid. That extra-large frappuccino you usually pick up on your way to work also contains plenty of calories. Switch to home-brewed coffee made from healthy ingredients if you need the caffeine.

You can actually use shying away from these drinks as an opportunity to drink more water. This allows you to reduce your calorie intake substantially while enjoying the benefits we discussed earlier.

Use the Right Supplements

Not all dietary supplements are created equal. When you have a pear-shaped body or if you are targeting the fat around your lower waist, finding supplements that can help address the issue directly is the way to go.

When it comes to supplements for people with a pear-shaped body, Immunocorp is the brand to look into. Lipobiotol, one of Immunocorp’s supplements, is designed to address the issues that cause a pear-shaped body in the first place.

The supplement is based on studies that revealed different causes of fat buildup around the lower section of the body. Issues such as bacterial imbalance and exposure to certain food items are addressed, giving your body the balance that it needs and the ability to burn fat in that specific area.

The Right Exercises

Dieting alone is not enough; you also have to integrate regular exercises and positive habits to accelerate your weight loss program. When you have a pear-shaped body and you want to get rid of the lower-body fat, the exercise you do matters.

You want to avoid some exercises that target the belly muscles directly. Doing crunches, for instance, helps strengthen the muscles around your belly, but doesn’t burn fat stored in the same area. Besides, doing crunches excessively could lead to more issues, including severe back problems.

What you want to do instead is a set of exercises that build up strength and muscle mass. This means doing squats and deadlifts to work your muscles in a more optimum way. These exercises will not burn fat immediately but doing them regularly will help you lower your waist size over time.

The rest is easy from there. Now that you have the best tips and tricks to use, you can lose weight and get rid of your pear-shaped body in a more effective and healthier way. Stick to the plan, improve your diet, and you will start losing more weight without risking your health.

Simple Ways of Getting a Drug Test at Home

Drug addiction and substance abuse are said to have reached epidemic proportions across the world. Statistics released by the American Addiction Centers a while back showed that as far back as 2014, about 21.5 million Americans had substance abuse issues. Interestingly, those affected were from the age of 12 upward. You can check out more of this report here.

This problem has shown no signs of abetting. If anything, it is on the increase and this has placed more demand on those in positions of authority, requiring that they tighten their supervision of those under their care or authority. These include parents, employers and other caregivers.

Why Home Drug Test Is Important

Continuing from our discussion above, there are times when homes testing can be a lifesaver. A parent could suspect that a child is abusing some controlled substances and want to confirm in order to stop the habit, providing the child with the early treatment that may be required. A home testing will come in very handy here.

A person can be facing a pending drug test in the office or prior to employment and need to make certain that their system is totally free of any drug toxins. Such a person can also confirm with a home test.

From the above, a home test can help confirm drug usage so that prompt intervention can commence. It can also confirm that a person is free of drug toxins and will, therefore, pass any drug test, putting the individual’s mind at rest and allowing them to go for their test with confidence.

Types of Home Drug Test
Just as there are different types of drug tests, so also are there different types of home drug tests. The different types of home drug testing include: urine testing, saliva testing, sweat testing, and hair follicle testing.

Urine Drug Testing
This is the most commonly used home drug testing method. It has an accuracy of between 97 and 99%. You can also get the result in as little as 15 minutes. The downside to this type of testing is that the urine sample can easily be contaminated and can also degrade with time. The result of the test can be affected by the food, drug or other substances that you take before the test.

Saliva Drug Testing
This is also a very quick acting test because you can get your result within 9 minutes of taking the test. The test is administered in the same way as the urine test so it is easy to take. It, however, has a major downside. It cannot be used to test for drug usage that has exceeded about 48 hours. It is best for checking for drug usage within 24 hours after use.

Sweat Drug Testing
This is not a common home drug testing method. The reason for this is that it is very cumbersome to administer. The subject being tested has to wear a patch for between 1 to 2 weeks before it is then removed and taken for testing. Aside from the fact that the time frame is too long, wearing a patch for that long will certainly be uncomfortable and will also allow for manipulation as the subject can easily remove the patch.

Hair Follicle Drug Testing
This is a very precise type of testing in that it can show details of the drug use. It can show not only drug usage but also the volume of and frequency of usage. There are however two downsides to it. The first is that the result is gotten in between 2 and 7 days and the second is that it cannot be used to test for marijuana usage.

You can get more information on these different types of home drug testing here: http://bestathomedrugtest.com/.

Drugs that Can be Tested for at Home

It will interest you to know that every drug that can be tested for in the lab can also be tested for at home. The simple reason is that the same companies that produce the testing materials for the labs also produce the testing materials for the home kits.

There are however some drugs that cannot yet be accurately tested for both at home and in the lab. These include: bath salts, salvia, and K2 also known as spice.

3 Approaches to Home Drug Testing

There are three ways to approach home drug testing.

1. You can use a home kit, administer the test and get your result.
2. A second option is to collect the sample you want tested and then send it to the lab for testing.
3. You can combine the two approaches above. That is, you get the sample and administer the test at home and then you also send the sample for a confirmatory test with a lab.

Choosing the Right Kind of Home Drug Testing Kit

To decide the type of home drug testing to choose, you need to consider some of the following:

1. Why am I doing the home test? If it is for an upcoming office drug test, then choose a test type similar to the one you will face in the office. For example, choose a urine test if you will face a urine test in the office.
2. What drugs do you want to test for? For example, if you want to test for the use of marijuana, you should not go for a hair follicle test.
3. How far back do you want to check for drug usage? Tests like saliva home testing will show drug usage that has not exceeded about 24 hours. To check for more distant drug usage, look for another appropriate method. 

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health this Winter

Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash

It is no secret that there has been a spiraling mental health epidemic in recent years. Unfortunately, in winter months people are more at risk of illnesses like Seasonal Affective Disorder, and the dark nights can feel a little more than scary for some people. It is easy to dread this season when you have had bad experiences in the past. However, there is nothing to say it can’t be different this time around. Luckily, lots more tips and tricks are making their way out into the open now that the stigma around mental health is being broken down. To ensure you have the right help, make sure you take note of a select few.

Photo by Trang Doan from Pexels

Eat a balanced diet

When winter is just around the corner, it can be much easier to turn to comfort food as a way of helping you to feel comforted during dark nights. Although indulging in your favorite snack in moderation is a great addition to your diet, you should also make sure you are eating enough vitamins and nutrients. In fact, there are some foods that are both easy to put into every meal, but which are also full of the vitamins your brain needs to help fight depression. It should also be noted that there are also substances that should be avoided, such as excess amounts of caffeine, alcohol, and drugs. If you feel as though you have slipped into a drug dependency at this time, it’s best to see help from a trusted drug addiction center to get you back on track.

Keep your exercise routine

It is widely regarded that having a good exercise routine can do wonders for both your physical and mental well-being. Colder and shorter days can make it feel impossible to keep on top of your current exercise schedule. The gym may seem like a world away, and your regular morning runs will be less appealing when it’s still dark outside. This is where many people decide to make the most of home exercises, as it removes a lot of the stress involved with making it to the gym n harsh weather conditions. While it is recommended that you complete some higher intensity workouts using equipment such as dumbbells, there are some exercises which have been proven to work better for your mental health. For example, yoga has been linked to lowering rates of depression and anxiety, and is a great way to handle excess stress around the holiday season.

Photo by freestocks.org from Pexels

Make use of natural light

In winter, the levels of natural light only take up a short space of the day. This is mainly which leads to problems like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Ideally, you should be outdoors as much as you can, so that you can soak up all the vitamin D your body needs. Taking long walks are a great way to do this. However, there will be days where being outside is not what you need. When this happens, you can maximize the natural light in your home, or you can invest in a special UV lamp so that your body can keep producing the vitamin D it needs to keep your mind healthy.

Airfree Air Purifiers 40% Off July 4th Sale

Can y'all believe it is JULY already? It is hot, hot, HOT out there! I often think the hotter it gets, the worse allergy symptoms seem to be. Right now is the best time to take advantage of the Airfree Air Purifier July 4th sale running now until July 9, 2018 at 23:59 PM.

They are offering 40% off on their most popular air purifier models:

Airfree Iris 3000
Original Price: $329.00
4th of July Price: $199.00

Airfree T800
Original Price: $159.00
4th of July Price: $99.00

You can find these incredible prices by shopping online at major retailers like: Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Depot, Wayfair, Amazon and by visiting their website at Airfee.com.  A complete list of participating websites can be found at Airfree.com.

Airfree products reduce microbiological contamination in the air naturally, without using chemicals or filters.  Airfree’s exclusive technology works by eliminating microorganisms and allergens using heat, destroying them in a fraction of a second. Depending on the model, between 14,000 and 20,000 liters of air pass through the Airfree device every hour, treating all the air in the room in a very short space of time. The process works in much the same way as sterilizing water by boiling it; when water is boiled, the microorganisms it contains are eliminated.

Airfree continually draws in air from the room, heating it to over 400 ºF and instantly sterilizing it. The purified air is then cooled inside the device before being returned to the room. The entire process is completely silent and requires no maintenance, not even the occasional replacement of parts. All you have to do is switch the device on and leave it on to perform the task.

The Iris 3000 standalone model is recommended for rooms up to 650sqft., weighs only 3.3 pounds, is guaranteed for 2 years, has a low energy consumption of 44 watts, uses 120 volts of electricity and offers users exclusive multicolor light option.

The T800 standalone model is recommended for rooms up to 180sqft., weighs only 1.5 pounds, is guaranteed for 2 years, has a low energy consumption of 33 watts, and uses only 110-127 volts of electricity.

We have owned air purifiers from Airfree for a couple years now and they are fantastic! I especially love that there is no maintenance and the unit it silent. It works so well for allergy and asthma sufferers. If you have been considering getting an air purifier or even upgrading, Airfree is the way to go!