Tips for a Safe Move During a Pandemic

Moving is always a stressful and overwhelming situation, but moving during a pandemic may take your stress and frustration to a whole new level. Whether you had a planned move or you have to move unexpectedly, as long as it’s done responsibly, moving during a pandemic with the help of moving services Ottawa is a possibility. It is important to take extra precautions and to be as prepared as possible before moving day arrives. Here are a few tips to help ensure your move is as safe and smooth as possible. 

DIY or Hire a Moving Service?

Utilizing the experience of moving services Ottawa will make the process much easier, but doing it yourself may be the safest method. During a pandemic, the fewer people you and your family interact with the less risk there is of spreading the virus. If you are concerned about hiring a full-service moving company, there are ways to utilizing their services while limiting contact. For instance, instead of hiring packing labor, pack everything yourself, and have all items in one room, close to the front door of your current home. This will prevent labors and movers from going in and out and limit contact between you and the movers. The same concept applies when your items are delivered to the new house; just have the movers put as many items in one central location.

Consider Using a Portable Moving Container

If you are concerned about contact with others, consider using a portable moving container. This will allow you to move items from your current house, put them in the moving container, and then the moving service will pick the full container up and transport it to your new home. This will help you to get your items transported without any social contact, which significantly decreases the safety risks and ensures that your items won’t be touched by others. Keep in mind that when you use a moving container, you are responsible for loading and unloading the container and you will need to thoroughly clean the container once it’s empty.

Disinfect Throughout the Day

The pandemic has everyone on edge, so do not feel embarrassed or awkward about taking extra precautions. On moving day, keep hand soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer available for both you and the movers. Also, be sure to routinely disinfect counters and other frequently touched surfaces throughout the day. As each room is emptied, be sure to wipe surfaces, such as light switches and doorknobs with a disinfectant cleaner. As uncomfortable as it may be, remember to wear a mask and encourage the movers to do the same. 

The most important thing you can do for your safety and the safety of those from the moving company is to postpone the move if anyone in your household has been recently sick or if they are showing signs of the virus. Moving may be important, but remember that the movers that are helping would be exposed as well, so it’s better to be safe and postpone the move than put your family and others at risk of getting sick.

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.

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Chocolate lovers all around get a natural high when we indulge in chocolate. Whether it is white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate, we naturally would be in paradise even after enduring a stressful day due to eating or drinking chocolate.

And even if we start to feel guilty for enjoying chocolate a little too much, we shouldn't feel too guilty. We should watch out for excessive sugar consumption. However, there are also some health benefits when it comes to chocolates, especially dark chocolate.

Chocolate experts can tell you the details about the health benefits, and they are the ultimate creators of different, delicious types of chocolate. They also know that dark chocolate reigns supreme when it comes to health benefits.   

The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

According to the Department of Agriculture, the typical size bar of dark chocolate with 70 to 85 percent cacao has approximately 24 grams of sugar and 600 calories. It is also high in antioxidants. Since dark chocolate has significantly more cocoa solids than other types of chocolate, it is an indicator of how much more dietary flavonoids it has.

Flavonoids are also in certain drinks, vegetables, and fruits. Additionally, more dietary flavonoids consumption links to a lower propensity for coronary heart disease. 

In addition to health-promoting flavonol phytonutrients, dark chocolate has the most antioxidants than milk chocolate. We can benefit the most from cacao beans when choosing cocoa powder due to having no sugar or fat. Consuming cocoa products is linked to a lower risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. We can boost our immune functions and HDL levels. We can significantly boost our arterial functions within hours or consuming only one teaspoon of cocoa. Cocoa consumption improves the veins' ability in the eyes to dilate, assists in opening up coronary arteries, leads to improving peripheral artery disease, improves blood flow to the kidneys, and combats the effects of aging.  When it comes to dark chocolate, we usually can find dark chocolate that contains approximately 50% cocoa to 100%. Most brands have 90%, 85%, or 70% cocoa. 

There are also some neuroprotective benefits that come from flavanols. Thus, consumers of dark chocolate can have some protection against diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and it can provide an anti-inflammatory effect for digestive problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Dark chocolate is also naturally high in magnesium, iron, manganese, and copper. 

Chocolate lovers can buy chocolate online Canada to satisfy their sweet tooths or locate a thoughtful gift for a loved one. 

Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Adults

Some people have crowded or crooked teeth which make them feel embarrassed about their smile. To achieve a perfect smile, the most obvious solution for such an orthodontic problem is to opt for braces. However, there is a better alternative for most teens and adults. It is none other than Invisalign. 

What Is Invisalign?

For those of you that do not know what Invisalign is, it is a clear set of hard plastic aligners which are placed in the mouth. Dr. Bagheri of New York Total Dental believes Invisalign is a wonderful and more esthetic alternative to braces. The aligners need to be checked over a course of the first few months and replaced while the teeth are aligned into a proper position. Invisalign has become a popular choice among teens and adults who are looking for a more aesthetically pleasing option. If you are considering getting Invisalign, the following pros and cons of Invisalign will help you make that final decision.

Pros of Invisalign

There are many benefits of getting Invisalign instead of the traditional metallic braces. Some of the advantages of a clear set of aligners are mentioned below.

1. Comfort

One of the best things about getting Invisalign is that they are a lot more comfortable to wear. As there are no brackets or wires, you do not need to stress about getting cuts or nicks in the mouth. They tend to be quite smooth and do not cause any irritation. There are no sharp edges which make Invisalign the ultimate choice.

2. More Attractive

If there is one thing about Invisalign that everyone will agree with, it is the fact that it is a more attractive option. As Invisalign is transparent, it allows your teeth to shine instead of filling your mouth with metal. When you get Invisalign, most people would not even notice that you are wearing them. This means that you would feel more comfortable when smiling rather than feeling self-conscious. Thus, adults prefer Invisalign when opting for an orthodontic treatment.

3. Convenience

More and more adults are getting Invisalign. It has become a norm when it comes to straightening the teeth. Rather than having to deal with metal braces, Invisalign provides you with amazing convenience that is unlike any other orthodontic option. 

4. Easy to Remove

Whenever you want to eat, brush, or floss, you can easily remove the Invisalign aligners. The same cannot be said about braces. This means that you would enjoy eating foods that you want and maintain better oral hygiene. In addition to this, there would be a lower risk of developing gum disease as you undergo the process of straightening the teeth. You do not need to stress about food particles coming in the way.

5. Minimal Maintenance

Finally, Invisalign aligners are a great option since they require minimal maintenance. Although they can get somewhat dingy over time, you can easily clean them up by making use of a toothbrush that is dipped in some bleach and water. Eliminate any stains by scrubbing the toothbrush.

Cons of Invisalign

Just like any other option, Invisalign does have its cons. These are mentioned below.

1. Expensive

One of the first things that people notice is the high cost of Invisalign. It can be quite an expensive option, especially considering the fact that you would not be covered by dental insurance. Thus, you would have to pay out of pocket. Expect to pay around $3,000 to $7,500 for the treatment. This can discourage individuals who are on a tight budget.

2. Attachments

Another disadvantage of Invisalign is that there are many attachments that you have to deal with. These attachments tend to be enamel ridges that stick onto your teeth similar to brackets. However, they are crucial for ensuring that the aligners fit perfectly and effectively shift your teeth into the desired position.

3. Requirement to Wear 22 Hours Every Day

To achieve that perfect smile, Invisalign has to be worn at least 22 hours every day. The truth is that you can only remove them to maintain daily oral hygiene and eating. This means that if you were to go out on a date or party, you would have to put them on.

4. Tooth Discomfort

When you first get new Invisalign aligners, you would find them to be uncomfortable to wear. It is because every time you get new Invisalign aligner trays, they will exert pressure to adjust your teeth which can be painful.

Conclusion

Now that you know about the pros and cons of Invisalign, you can decide whether you should get them or not. Remember, there is always a price for beauty. 

Perks of Being the Designated Driver

When a group is getting together to drink, it's important to determine a designated driver before the party starts. Many people see the designated driver as the unlucky one — the person who has to sit the night out and babysit. This is not the case. Being your group's driver has some hidden perks and you can have just as much fun — if not more — as everybody else. 

Free Beverages

Any responsible drinker understands DUI laws and knows how important designated drivers are, and many venues show their appreciation for this role by providing free soda or coffee. Be sure to mention to the bartender or server that you are the driver when ordering your soda. If the bar or restaurant doesn't provide this for you, there's a good chance your friends will — after all, you're the linchpin of the party.

Timeless Photos 

When you are helping your friends get around safely, you have a very unique position: you're the sober one. That may seem obvious, but being the sober person in the group means you're seeing things in a way the others aren't. Keep your camera at the ready, because your friends are bound to do something that will be worth laughing at once they sober up. When done in good fun, these photos can become an expected tradition within the group — whoever drives can also be expected to document the night's high jinks. 

Avoiding Regrets

In vino veritas (Latin for "in wine, there is truth"), but in soberness, there is discretion. Throughout history, people have woken up the next morning only to find out the may have said something they had intended to keep to themselves. Making sure you're in full control of what you say or do is especially valuable if you are around people you may have something to say that you'd rather keep as an internal dialogue. 

Speaking of waking up the next morning, if you don't drink, you can't have a hangover. This is particularly valuable if the party is part of an important event, such as the night before a wedding. 

Calling the Shots 

Perhaps one of the better parts of taking on the role of the driver is that you become the decision-maker. You get to decide how many stops will be made, what music you listen to in the car and where you'll eat. Your car; your rules.

Maybe best of all, when you decide you're done and want to go home, the others either have to leave when you decide to leave or pay for a cab. If any member of the group is not coming home with you for whatever reason, it is your job to ensure they have a safe ride home secured before you separate.

Being the designated driver is much more than being the person who can't drink. You'll not only create good memories by staying sober, but you'll also show your friends you care about them and want them to have a good time. The driver's job is to make sure everyone is safe, and by no means does that mean sitting the night out. 

Feeling Overtired? Here’s How To Naturally Get Better Sleep

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Moms seem to have this supernatural ability to keep going throughout the day on very little sleep. With just fumes in the tank, they manage to find a way to get everything done.

From work, to kids to school to sleepless nights it seems that there are just not enough hours in the day. Well, the thing is that eventually you will start to feel run down. And this can lead to health problems later on down the road.

Time to make sure that you are getting enough sleep so you don’t feel like you’re always running on empty. That cup of coffee can only do so much, after all.

In this article, I will go over some ideas on how to make sure that you are getting more sleep so you’ll have more energy and maybe even help you become a morning person!

1 - Reduce stress

Yes, it is easier said than done, but there are some routines you can practice to try to stay calm and not let stress take over and ruin your sleep. Stress builds up cortisol levels in your system and that causes your hormones to get out of balance.

When that happens, your internal clock can get thrown off. You need to get more serotonin flowing instead of the cortisol which will keep your mind off of the stress and help you find some balance.

Meditating with aromatherapy beads from Kumi is a great way to get rid of stress. When you do it regularly, it will keep the stress from creeping up on you so you can feel calm and ready to sleep when it’s time.

Yoga is also a great way to do this and it helps keep you in good shape, too. Doing exercise is a very effective stress reliever as it pumps your system full of endorphins which just make you feel good. When you do yoga you get the endorphins as well as help clear your mind and stay focused on the present.

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2 - Make your bedroom cozy

If you have clutter in your bedroom, find a way to organize it as clutter can be depressing and lead to difficulty sleeping.

Your bedroom needs to be an oasis so you have a place to go and get the rest you need to take on the day. After getting things organized so your bedroom is tidy, you should also focus on the lighting. Soft lights are best, especially red so it creates an atmosphere that makes you sleepy.

You should also use some aromatherapy there, too. Add a diffuser that spreads aromas like lavender to help you sleep.

3 - Put the phone down

The blue light emitted from phones and tablets is known to disrupt melatonin production which is responsible for telling the brain to shut down for sleep. If you like to browse your social media before bed, make it a point not to. At least 30 minutes before bed, you should put your devices away and not look at them.

We hope these tips can help you get a better night's sleep.

Why You Need to Take Care of Your Scalp

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Most of us take good care of our hair. We wash it using expensive products and go to the hairdressers every few weeks. Yet, few of us realize the importance of taking care of our scalp as well.

There are several reasons you need to make using a scalp cleanser a regular part of your personal care regime. Below, are the most important of them.

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Your hair will suffer if your scalp is not in good condition

Every hair on your head starts life under your scalp in the hair follicles. So, naturally, if your scalp is not in a healthy condition it is practically impossible for strong hairs to be formed.

Scalp issues can cause you to go bald prematurely

If some of your hair follicles are covered by scabs they will not be able to function properly. This can lead to sparse hair growth. Over time, things can worsen to the point where you end up with actual bald patches.

An unhealthy scalp can lead to fungal infections

Some scalp conditions are caused by fungal infections. Usually, the infection will stay confined to that area of your body. But when you scratch your head, which you are likely to do quite a bit, there is a chance that the fungus can spread to other areas of your skin.

An unhealthy scalp can harbor bacteria

Some scalp conditions can lead to bacterial infections. Again, it is possible to spread these to other areas of the body by scratching then touching an open cut.

You can end up with greasy hair

Lipids are important compounds that your body uses to build new strands. Your body knows how much is needed to keep your hair looking healthy, so it sends the right level of fatty acids to your scalp to achieve the desired result. If some of your follicles are blocked you end up with too much of these lipids being sent to the other hairs. This is one of the underlying causes of greasy hair. You can read about more of them here.

Having an itchy sore scalp is uncomfortable

Lastly, if your scalp is in poor condition, it will be itchy maybe sore, which is extremely uncomfortable. Nobody wants to be constantly scratching their head.

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How to look after your scalp

Fortunately, it is not that difficult to keep your scalp in good condition. Get into the habit of using a scalp serum. These products are designed to nourish the area and kill off the most common funguses and bacteria that can make a home there.

Why you need to spot and tackle problems early

If you are not in the habit of actively checking your scalp, it is a good idea to start to do so. The faster you spot and address any problems you find, the better. Once you develop an issue with your scalp, treating it becomes difficult because your hair makes it almost impossible to apply enough topical creams and lotions to the right area.

3 Things To Consider When Looking for Senior Housing

If you or a loved one have been having medical issues or could simply use some help with daily tasks, you may have been looking into senior housing Denver CO. Senior living communities can offer a number of benefits to residents, from accessible healthcare to a sense of community and more. As you narrow down your options, however, there are a few essential things you should keep in mind. Here are a few of the key factors you may want to look for in a senior home.

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1. Levels of Provided Healthcare Vary

Depending on your or your loved one’s medical needs, having around-the-clock healthcare may or may not be important to you. While some health situations call for consistent care, others may simply require occasional check-ins. This is an important factor to consider before committing to a home, since not all homes provide the same degree of in-house healthcare. Some facilities help with bathing, dressing and nursing services; others may offer help with tasks like taking medication but lack on-call medical staff. Be sure to ask around at each home you visit to determine whether the level of care provided matches your medical needs.

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2. Good Nutrition Makes a Difference

One thing that not all homes offer is quality dining. When you visit a home, ask about their nutritional planning and what types of foods they offer residents. This is especially important because many older adults have special nutritional needs. Additionally, if you or your loved one have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to ask if the facility would be willing or able to accommodate them.

3. Entertainment and Community Matter

Finally, don’t forget that when you’re living somewhere, the entertainment provided and the sense of community between the residents can make all the difference in terms of the quality of your experience. Some homes offer regular community-building activities like bingo tournaments, movie nights or musical events. When you’re visiting, pay attention to how residents interact with each other. If you’re looking for a close-knit community, for instance, seeing residents that are friendly and comfortable with each other may be a good sign that you’ll be able to find the companionship you’re looking for.

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When you or your loved one need help with everyday tasks, would like consistent companionship or simply want accessible healthcare, moving to a senior living community may be a good decision. Choosing the right place, however, can involve balancing a number of different factors. When you’re searching for a home, keep these essential things in mind and you’re sure to choose the right senior home for your situation.

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.

3 Ways To Fight Brain Fog

Do you ever feel like you are walking around in a daze, or cannot keep your mind focused on the task at hand? Do you feel like you are not as mentally sharp as you used to be? If you answered yes, you are not alone. Many people suffer from what has come to be known as brain fog. Brain fog can describe a person who is experiencing decreased concentration, diminished memory, insufficient focus, or overall weakened mental clarity. It can be linked to a myriad of causes and affect important areas of your life, such as your job, schoolwork, or relationships. Although there are life changes that you can make to help decrease these symptoms, you might find it helpful to take supplements for mental clarity for a jump start to help the fog lift.

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Sleep

It cannot be said enough how important getting adequate sleep is for your overall health. Proper sleep is a cornerstone for all the other healthy habits you strive to maintain and is critical for your brain to function at its best. it is easy to identify the physical struggle that comes from a lack of sleep, such as not having the energy to exercise, or having that overwhelming urge to take a nap in the middle of the workday. Other symptoms may not be as easy to recognize.

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When you are overtired, you can experience a rise in depression and a decrease in good mental health. When your mind is so busy battling negative thoughts and feelings, you lose some of your mental bandwidth needed to deal with the life that is in front of you. Lack of sleep can also affect your blood sugar level. When your blood sugar level is too low, you can experience extreme lethargy that paralyzes you to the point of not even wanting to move, and your ability to think becomes fuzzy and unclear.

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Eat Healthy

Proper nutrition is very important for your mental health. You would not purposely put bad gasoline in your car because it would negatively affect the car's performance. Treat your body the same way. Ensure that you are regularly consuming foods that contain vitamins and nutrients that are especially good for brain support, such as Omega-3 fatty acids. 

Train Your Brain

Being able to relax and de-stress is important for good mental health. Your life might be similar to that of many people who have full daily schedules and find it hard to keep up with a growing to-do list. Sometimes participating in a rather mindless activity, such as watching TV or scrolling through social media, is exactly what you need. Strive to also spend time regularly engaged in hobbies or projects that will tax your brain. You can try doing crossword or jigsaw puzzles, learning a new style of dance, or using your non-dominant hand to do things like brush your teeth.

You are likely bombarded with stressors and activities every day that compete for your attention and can clutter your mind. Put up your best defense against brain fog by sleeping well, choosing healthy foods and supplements, and engaging in mind sharpening activities.

Alternative to CBD Shops in Columbia, SC

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become increasingly popular throughout the United States, especially in places like Columbia, South Carolina. This beautiful state has seen a surge in CBD shops in recent years. However, for the average consumer, walking into one of these shops can be daunting. How can you know if the products are trustworthy? How do you avoid wasting your hard-earned bucks?

Here, we'll guide you through the recent cannabidiol craze - and the available alternatives to CBD shops in Columbia.

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The Rising Popularity of CBD 

The popularity of CBD has snowballed in recent years. Nowadays, you can walk into numerous stores in Columbia, promoting their cannabidiol products. Some gas stations even sell this product.

A ​study by Medical News Today​ investigating the public interest in CBD demonstrated that Google Searches for it significantly increased since 2014 and are still increasing. In April 2019, there were about 6.4 million CBD searches. Another ​study by USA Today​ published in the peer-review JAMA Network Open shows a 160.4 increase in searches in 2018, compared to the previous year.

The explosive interest in this herbal product has to do with two things: federal approval and hemp-derived properties.

Cannabidiol is a derivative of the hemp plant. In 2018, it gained approval from multiple federal regulators following the ​US Farm Bill legalizing industrial hemp​. With federal approval, numerous manufacturers got the green light to create products centered around cannabidiol.

CBD also comes from the hemp plant, and that distinction is crucial. People often confuse cannabidiol with marijuana, but hemp is a different strain of the cannabis plant than marijuana. Marijuana has THC, which gets users high. Cannabidiol from hemp does not contain THC. Indeed, the 2018 Farm Bill strictly stated that cannabidiol sold to the public had to have less than 3% THC.

The rising popularity of CBD has been incredible for many people. People from all walks of life have enjoyed this herbal product in all-forms, including the use of ​water soluble CBD oil​ as a solution. Seniors with health issues, young people for experimentation, mothers seeking natural solutions for maternal aches - all types of people have turned to CBD.

However, with increased availability come several risks, making it necessary to find alternatives to local CBD shops. The only thing growing faster than CBD's popularity is confusion about what exactly it is, how it works, how you can use it, and where you can get it.

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Why Seek an Alternative to In-Store Options? 

Cannabidiol products in stores may not be the same quality as the CBD products online. Besides issues of availability, people seek alternatives for various reasons, as discussed below:

Reliability and Quality Guarantee

The increasing popularity in CBD oil has, unfortunately, come with an increasing number of companies that are deceptive to consumers. Some of these companies take advantage of consumers and add harmful components that may have potential side effects.
With online options, you can vet the products by checking the seller's quality guarantee. Most online CBD vendors publish their lab reports.

These reports indicate the quality, quantity, and source of cannabidiol in the products you purchase. The result? You get an assurance of the manufacturer's reliability and a quality guarantee.

We suggest that you purchase CBD oil directly from a reputable manufacturer's website to avoid scams from deceptive entrepreneurs. It will help you avoid imitations, and you might also get offers and discounts, including a free trial. You will also receive products that have been thoroughly tested and researched.

Availability

Alternatives to CBD shops in Columbia may also be desirable for availability. Going to your local shop to pick up some products may seem convenient - until it's bedtime, and you realize that you've run out of your CBD.

Online options mean you can shop for products when you want, where you want. You don't have to worry about running out as long as you put in your order to have it delivered securely and discreetly.

Additionally, many CBD Shops in Columbia have closed down following the current economic recession. The pandemic also has made some people leery of going into crowded retailers. For convenience and health, online alternatives can be lifesavers.

Variety

Cannabidiol is available in numerous forms, but your local shop might only carry a handful of products. The retailer has to think about their business, too, which means they won't carry the entire stock of available products in case they don't sell. The limited selection means you're missing out on the variety!

When you shop for cannabidiol, you can find:

● CBD oils, water-soluble oils, and tinctures - you can place these sublingually or add to any beverage or meal
● Edibles - CBD comes in a wide range of products to eat and drink. They include gummies, chocolates, cakes, etc.
● Vape juices
● Pills and capsules
● Topicals, balms, creams
● Self-care - lip balms, bath bombs, eye serums
● Pet products - dog treats, canine tinctures

Find CBD Oil Online Today!

It's crucial to make sure you buy the best quality products from approved suppliers. If you're looking for alternatives to CBD shops in Columbia, SC, your best bet is to shop online.

How To Grow a First Aid Kit

The best first aid kits are the ones you grow yourself! The Old Farmer’s Almanac for Kids Volume 8 shares how to grow an aloe vera plant, which has long been used for its healing properties.

PLANT OF IMMORTALITY

Ancient Egyptians called it the “plant of immortality” and early Native American tribes called it “wand of heaven,” but we call it aloe vera. Originally grown in southern Africa, aloe vera is a succulent. Its leaves are full of healing substances that have been used medicinally for at least 6,000 years.

HOW TO GROW ALOE VERA

Aloe vera is an easy-to-grow houseplant. Here are the few steps needed:

• Plant it in good potting soil (soil made for cacti is perfect).
• Set it in a sunny spot.
• Water about every 3 weeks and even less during winter.
• Push your finger into the soil to test for dryness. You want the soil to dry at least 1 to 2 inches deep before watering.

LEAF FOR RELIEF

Using the leaf straight from the plant is the best way to get aloe’s healing properties. The gel can help to heal and ease the pain of burns, bruises, boils, canker sores, and chapped lips. It may also lessen symptoms of acne. For aloe relief:

• Remove one of the sword-like leaves from a living plant and open it along its length. Then either squeeze out the gel and apply it where relief is needed or lay the entire opened leaf side directly over the affected area and then bandage it lightly in place.
• Remove a leaf from an aloe plant. Cut open the leaf and use a spoon to scrape out the clear gel. Put the gel pieces into a blender and pulse several times, until the aloe is liquid. Pour the gel into clean ice cube trays and place in freezer. To use, remove an aloe cube and apply to sunburned skin, bug bites, poison ivy rash, or any other ailment that requires relief.

ALOE FOR HAIR AND SKIN

• To condition hair and leave it healthy-looking and shiny, scrape some gel out of the leaves and massage it into your hair. Wait for about 5 minutes, then rinse it out with warm or cold water.
• To use aloe as a skin moisturizer, just scoop out the gel or rub a freshly cut leaf over your skin and let it dry.

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!

3 Reasons To Keep Your Yearly Eye Appointment

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Our senses are so valuable, yet it's easy to take them for granted, particularly the act of seeing. What color is something? Can you read the paper? Can you enjoy the smile on a loved one's face? Ensure these moments continue by making your eyesight a priority. Yearly doctor appointments can sometimes be easy to overlook. After all, life is busy enough. Squeezing in one more check up just seems to be time consuming. In fact, you simply think that your vision hasn't changed so it's just not worth it. Consider that again. Your yearly appointment could be vital to maintaining your sight. Here are three reasons to visit your eye doctor.

1. Understand the Changes in Pressure

It's hard to know when high blood pressure begins. It's considered a silent killer because people often can't feel it. Usually, it's discovered upon regular visits to a physician. The same could be said of the beginning stages of glaucoma. This form of pressure happens on the optic nerve. This doesn't always immediately impact how your clarity. Instead, you might experience headaches, redness, or halos. Pain and nausea are also sometimes attributed to the disease. What you may think is simply stomach trouble or allergies could be a major concern. When you meet with the doctor, he or she tests this, monitoring any changes or issues. Caught early, people could receive treatment, helping to avoid long-term vision loss.

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2. Detect Dry Eye

In today's world, people constantly stare at screens. Whether it's work or pleasure, many are no longer spending the majority of their life enjoying normal daylight. Rather, the eyes must adapt to the screen. This can grow tiresome, harming the tear production, exacerbating dry eye. The layers begin to lose their moisture, making them rough. They are less protected from irritants and lose the vital nourishment needed to safeguard them. During the exam, tear production can be checked. Drops and treatments may be offered. On an average day, someone experiencing this may not realize this is affecting him or her. Symptoms are usually aggravation or grittiness; however, ignoring this over long periods of time can lead to worse vision.

3. Learn About Your Body

Often people don't see the primary physician for yearly blood work. Perhaps you go for a cough or a fever, but few like to see their lab work every year. It's significant, though, because it identifies changes in your metabolic system that may not be visible. In fact, you may seem fit but still have sugar or cholesterol issues. Sometimes by looking at your eyes, those beginning stages can be noted. That's where the eye appointment could help save you. Diabetes, for instance, may affect the retina in your eyeball, sometimes causing bleeding or giving off yellow fluid. Simple observations may signal warning. Furthermore, plaque buildup is a sign on cholesterol development. This can also appear within the retina, triggering a need for additional investigation.

Visiting the optometrist is about more than glasses. It's really about your general health.

Why It Is Important To Speak Up When It Comes To Your Health

Have you ever felt like something in you is a bit off? Like you are off balance and can't quite figure out what your problem is? I went to my doctor a little over a month ago for my annual physical. I was actually 2 months off schedule since the pandemic came and knocked everything out of whack. Any time I have to go in to the doctor's office my blood pressure spikes a bit. I do check it at home regularly, and it is almost always right where it's supposed to be. The nurse always laughs and asks me if I am afraid of her, and that she doesn't bite. That usually calms me down, and my BP goes back down.

This last visit went a lot differently than normal. It was one of those very hot and muggy mornings, and I am normally the type of person who is always hot. I had to sip my ice water in the car, and put my mask on to enter the building. I went in, got registered at the front desk, and waited patiently to be called back. As soon as I saw the nurse crack open the door I felt my heart beat a bit faster, and I could feel myself trying harder to breathe. The mask doesn't make it any easier, but of course you still have to wear one.

Like with any visit, the first thing they do is check your weight and vitals. I decided to give myself a break with the weight since COVID-19 has been stressful and concerning. When the blood pressure cuff was placed around my arm, I had a bad feeling. My BP was 170/100! My heart rate was 117. I just sat there in shock as the nurse told me she would have to re-take my BP in a 5-minute time frame 3 times to get an average number between the three. Of course since it was within 5 minutes of the first check, it was still high at 155/95.

I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach and had those panicked breaths where I felt like I was gasping for air. My nerves were shot at this point. My doctor came in shortly after and was briefly updated on what was going on. We chatted about my overall well-being and how I was really feeling and I told her I was definitely better than I was in previous years dealing with extreme anxiety and depression. She figured that my elevated BP and heart rate were due to anxiety that were related to the pandemic, and the news regarding police brutality and racism. I mean, who isn't feeling a whole lot right now?

She highly recommended that I start a low-dose anti-anxiety medication to help me calm down, and hopefully that would result in my BP and heart rate regulating. I agreed. I don't know why, but I agreed. She wanted to see me back in 6 months to discuss how things end up going from taking the medication. I also had to wait for my lab results to see if anything else was wrong. Last year my cholesterol was high, and that is concerning since both of my parents were cardiac patients. I was warned of the possibility that if it was the same or higher, I would need to get on cholesterol meds right away.

I was diagnosed with thyroid disease about 5 years ago, and have been on medication to keep it regulated since then. Lucky for me, I've had very few symptoms that affect me. The only time I really did have anything that wasn't quite right was confused as being anxiety, when in reality I was having heart palpitations. Then the light bulb popped on in my head. The deep breathing and higher heart rate wasn't feeling 100% like anxiety, but more like heart palpitations. I decided to wait for my lab results to come back so I could see what my Thyroid-Stimulation Hormone (TSH) levels were. I just had a feeling something wasn't right.

What is so strange about the whole pandemic is that my life wasn't really affected a whole lot. Being home all the time, and homeschooling my son is my normal. Aside from not being able to find certain items at the store, things have been fine on the home-front. The only time I would get worked up is when I turned on the news. The state of the nation has been pitiful to say the least. Seeing so many families affected by job loss, kids not getting adequate education, and the state of financial crisis is enough to make anyone worry. But you know what? I still chose to find the good things to focus on each day. This made getting through these crazy months a lot easier. I have been surprisingly calm despite what was going on all over the world.

Enough about that, back to the lab results. They came in the next day, and to my surprise, the doctor was super happy to see how great everything looked. My cholesterol went down by 43 points! I had no idea it could drop that much in just a year. I can't tell you how relieved I was to get this fantastic news. I decided to really read through my results to make sure everything else was where it needs to be. I improved on just about everything! One thing did stick out to me though. My TSH level was at the top of the high number. That didn't sit right with me. Although it was .04 within the range, I was still concerned.

I sent a message through the patient portal to express my concerns about the TSH levels, and asked for my medication to be adjusted. I really feel like my elevated heart rate and BP was from heart palpitations caused by my thyroid and not anxiety. She agreed to step me up to 75mg from 50mg and have my labs done again in 3 months. After taking the higher dosage for 2 weeks, the palpitations subsided and I started feeling normal again. I definitely have not felt any anxiety or sadness. I knew I wasn't depressed, and was NOT about to take a drug that would be very hard to come off of.

This is what my blood pressure and heart rate look like now. 

I am happy that I decided against the anti-anxiety meds and opted to advocate for myself. While antidepressants are necessary for many people and do help a lot, I knew I didn't need them. I used to be one of those people who thought if a doctor tells you something, it's as good as gold and you have to listen. It's not always the case. Read over your lab reports, do your own research, ask questions and follow your gut. I'm so happy that I did! I will get my labs work done in the first part of September and go from there.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post. Continue to stay well, and wear your mask!

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.