4 Ways That Dark Chocolate Benefits Your Health

One of the most decadent and appreciated treats on the planet, chocolate is available in white, milk, and dark varieties. Although which chocolate you prefer indulging in when you eye the Chocolate Display Cases is a personal choice, dark chocolate is definitely the variety with the most health benefits. Next time you have the urge to eat a piece of chocolate, reach for the dark variety, and leave the guilt behind.

1. Promotes Heart Health

One of the most touted benefits of dark chocolate for your body is its ability to improve your cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that individuals who consume it on a regular basis have less of a risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Researchers attribute this finding to the flavonoids found in dark chocolate, which help the body produce nitric oxide. In turn, blood vessels relax and your blood pressure lowers.  

2. Beneficial for Your Brain

Studies have also shown that eating large amounts of dark chocolate is beneficial to your brain. This is due to the fact that chocolate stimulates pleasure and reward centers in the brain, which lessens stress and betters your mood. Brain health improvements were also found to be due to the presence of flavonoids found in it.

3. Reduces Risk of Diabetes

Although eating chocolate doesn’t sound like the best way to prevent diabetes, studies have shown that eating small amounts of dark chocolate each day has the ability to improve the way that glucose is metabolized by the body. In a 2017 study, the flavonoids in dark chocolate were shown to lower oxidative stress, which is believed to be the main cause of insulin resistance. When insulin sensitivity is improved, the risk of you getting diabetes is lessened.

4. Good for Your Skin

Dark chocolate is packed full of vitamins and minerals, such as copper, iron, and magnesium. It also contains manganese, which helps the body produce collagen, a protein that keeps your skin from aging prematurely. The calcium found in dark chocolate is important for healthy skin repair and renewal, and its high antioxidant content works to protect your skin against free radicals.

You may be wondering if all dark chocolate is created equal. If you are looking to reap its health benefits, the optimal cacao percentage you should look for on the label is 70% or higher. The higher the percentage of cacao, the more nutrients and antioxidants it contains.

4 Ways Detoxifying Your Body Can Improve Your Mood

Have you struggled with staying optimistic and happy lately? If you feel like your mood could use some improvement but you aren’t sure how to rid yourself of your sour attitude, you may want to consider an herbal cleansing detox. Though it may sound complicated, anyone can do it. There is a lot of research that suggests detoxifying your body can not only help your digestive system operate more efficiently, but assist with good psychological and emotional function as well. Here are the top ways detoxifying your body can improve your mood.

The Mind-Body Connection When Detoxing

Research shows a link between the mind and the body. This is often referred to as the mind-body connection, and it’s a fascinating thing to study. It seems there is a link between the outcome, cause, and development of physical illnesses and psychological or social factors. This means that your attitudes, behaviors and thoughts have an impact on your physical health, and vice versa.

When you cleanse your body—particularly your liver—you are likely to experience strong emotional benefits as well. As a result, you’ll feel a boost in your mood that can help you deal with stressors more constructively.

Cleansing Your Mind & Body

• When you do a digestive detox, both your body and your mind respond. To get the greatest benefit from your physical cleanse, you should also consider adding the following emotional and mental cleanse steps into your routine:
• Meditate daily
• Stay hydrated
• Get sufficient, quality sleep
• Limit exposure to social media and electronics
• Stay away from caffeine
• Get healthy movement every day
• Think about positive things
• Try chanting positive mantras every day
• Focus on improving relationships

These are all great ways to maximize the healthful physical and emotional benefits of your detox. You can start your cleanse right away when you decide to Polisorb buy online.

Ways Detoxing Improves Your Mood

When you cleanse your body of toxic materials, you feel refreshed, rejuvenated and physically lighter. All of these sensations can lead to feelings of greater happiness and energy. After your detox, you’ll also likely experience increased focus, which can help you perform better at work. Your improved performance will most likely lead to improved feelings of accomplishment and self-worth. You may even be recognized for your efficiency and exceptional performance.

Detoxing can also minimize aches and pains associated with too many harmful substances accumulating in the body. When your body feels good instead of experiencing chronic aches and pains, you’re more likely to feel positive and fulfilled. Cleansing can also help you release negative emotions that you’ve been hanging onto (whether you realize it or not!)

In these ways and more, a simple herbal cleansing detox can be completely transformative. If you feel like you’re currently stuck emotionally or you’re not as confident and healthy as you would like to be, consider starting a cleanse today. You’re sure to feel a difference in your physical and emotional health once you finish. Though doing a cleanse can be challenging (especially the first few times), the more you do it regularly, the easier it becomes.

Ways to Look Naturally Beautiful

Do you spend hours before the mirror working to enhance your appearance? While cosmetics are a good method of enhancing your physical features, you don't have to depend on them to look beautiful. Looking beautiful naturally is a goal many people have. Some may wonder if it’s even  possible to dump the morning routine and still look gorgeous. The answer is yes! Mentioned below are some tips that will allow you to look naturally beautiful without spending hours in the mirror applying makeup.

Dental Protection

It is significant to brush your teeth and floss twice a day. Clean teeth can make or break your entire look. If you do not like your teeth or some of your teeth are missing, you may need to undergo specific dental treatments. According to dental implant specialist Bryan Shanahan, implants can be the perfect solution for people who have lost teeth.

Sunscreen

Regularly apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or above that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Since a lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots, and other skin problems, you need to shield your skin from the sun. Make sure the label has 'non-comedogenic' or 'non-acnegenic', so the sunscreen doesn't clog your pores. Do not skip the sunscreen, even if it's cold or cloudy outside.

Exercise!

Exercise regularly. Running, jogging, and yoga will give your body vital blood circulation, and quicken the cleansing cycle of your body. You will see a glow after working out. If you do not have the time, simply go for a walk in the neighborhood. Apply a toner to help limit oil creation before exercising. Exfoliate afterward and apply a moisturizer.

Moisturize

Moisturizing will keep your skin going. The first age-related changes are because of the skin losing moisture. We can't stop it; however, it is possible to slow the process. Start using products containing hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing components. Additionally, there should be a facial mist in your purse. The mist will keep the skin hydrated and healthy.

Avoid heat

Avoid heat and use a decent heat protectant if you do. Not only can everyday hair straightening and curling look monotonous, but it can cause a lot of harm to your hair. At the point when you do heat your hair, apply a heat protectant spray or serum to your hair. This shields your hair from getting burnt and keeps it from looking dry. If you are having a messy hair day with unmanageable frizz, try braiding. The braids are a lot gentler on your hair and require less effort. Consider no-heat strategies when curling your hair. It may take longer, but it will be better for your hair.

Eat healthy food

For a healthy body and skin, the kind of food you eat is everything. A healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids is fundamental for looking great. If you want to know how to look beautiful naturally, it is recommended to follow a healthy diet. By deciding to eat healthily you can eat your way to glowing skin.

Trampoline Exercises for Weight Loss

Wasn’t it great fun to jump on the trampoline as a child? Just because you are all grown up now doesn’t mean you can’t do it anymore. The great news is that trampoline jumping is one of the best exercises out there, particularly if you are trying to lose weight. Add jumping on the trampoline to your list of things to do each day and you are likely to enjoy it so much that you will wear out your trampoline springs in no time. Here are four trampoline exercises you can do for weight loss. 

1. Max Jumps

The goal of max jumps is to jump as high as you possibly can. When you land on your feet, avoid springing up. Instead, allow your feet to sink into the trampoline. Simultaneously lower your body into a squatting position. Doing so will help you jump higher when the trampoline thrusts you upward. To achieve the best results, perform around 10-12 sets. Resting for 15-30 seconds between each set is recommended.

2. Side to Side and Front to Back Hops

To perform this exercise, all you need to do is keep your feet together. Jump to the right and to the left. Jump to the front and to the back. The key is to hold your feet together at all times. Although it sounds easy, it can be a bit challenging to make sure you don’t accidentally jump off of the trampoline. Try hopping as fast as you can for about a minute.

3. Jumping Jacks

If you are ready to engage your upper body, then it is time to do jumping jacks on the trampoline. You already know how to do them, so give it a go! Jumping jacks will help you burn calories and melt away belly fat. For best results, finish about 2-4 sets of 1 minute each.

4. Jump Twist

Similar to jumping jacks, doing jump twists on the trampoline works your upper body and is great for burning calories. Begin by stretching out your arms, making them parallel to the ground. When you jump, twist your hips to the left and to the right. To achieve ideal results, perform around 2-4 sets of 1 minute each.

What could be more fun than jumping on the trampoline every day to lose weight? Dropping those pounds will no longer feel like a chore when you follow these simple exercises.

Dental Crowns: Purpose, Types, and Procedure

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

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

Dental Crowns Purposes

Dental crowns are required for various reasons as mentioned below.

• To cover teeth which are treated with a root canal

• To cover dental implants

• To cover severely discolored or misshaped teeth

• To hold dental bridges in place

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

• To restore broken teeth or severely worn out teeth

• To protect weak teeth from breaking or keeping them together

  

Dental Crowns Types

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

1. Metal Crowns

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

2. Porcelain-Fused-Metal Crowns

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

3. Resin Crowns

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

4. All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic

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

5. Pressed Ceramic

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

Dental Crowns Procedure

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

The First Visit

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

• Injury to the pulp

• Risk of infection

• Tooth decay

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

The Second Visit

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

4 Beauty Tips to Try For Better Health

As the holidays approach us, life can feel a bit hectic. It’s hard to find time for self-care when you’re juggling family obligations, your work schedule, and coordinating holiday gifts. Beauty starts with a healthy body, and that means nourishing yourself inside and out.  

Here are four fabulous beauty tips to help you look and feel your best all season long!  

#1 Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

If you live in a cold climate, you know that winter means dry skin and hair. Give your skin some love, and make moisturizing part of your daily routine. 

For sensitive skin, use gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizers for hydration. If you’re extra dry and in need of deeper hydration, treat yourself to a revitalizing face mask.

Part of an effective skincare routine is exfoliation. Make homemade sugar scrubs or use a pumice stone to remove layers of dead skin. You only need to devote a few minutes a day for glowing, vibrant, skin. 

#2 Turn Down the Heat

Blow drying, straightening, and curling are all highly dehydrating for your hair. If you suffer from a dry scalp and brittle hair, it’s time to revamp your hair-care regimen. 

Here are a few tips for luscious locks all winter long: 

• Take Cooler Showers – Although hot showers are comforting, dousing your hair with hot water is extremely dehydrating. When you wash your hair, turn down the heat a little to nourish your scalp.
  
  

• Go Easy on the Products – Dry shampoos and hairsprays, although incredibly useful, may increase scalp irritation and dryness. Try to use these products in moderation and go au naturel for a change.
  
  

• Use Moisturizing Oils – It might feel counter-intuitive to put oil in your hair, but this is a great way to introduce some moisture into lackluster hair. Jojoba or almond oils are versatile and give hair a healthy shine when massaged into your ends. 

#3 Get Enough Sleep 

Sleep is the secret to radiant beauty and excellent health. When you’re well-rested, your skin will be fresh, your eyes bright, and your demeanor relaxed and focused. 

We know sleep can be hard to come by, especially when your schedule is overloaded. To relax, draw a bath before bed and add soothing lavender essential oil.

For extra comfort and relaxation, take a vegan CBD tincture before bed. CBD reduces anxiety and diminishes aches and pains. This will help you get the restful night’s sleep you need (and deserve) to feel your best. 

#4 Use Natural Makeup 

Instead of using chemical-heavy makeup, opt for natural alternatives. This will give your skin a much-needed break, and add glamour to your everyday style. 

• Mascara – Use natural, chemical-free mascara for striking lashes. 

• Lip Balm – A beeswax-tinted lip balm adds a subtle hint of color to your look.

• Blush – Add a rosy flush to your cheeks with mineral based blush.

• Highlighter – Vegan, cruelty-free highlighter gives you a glow inside and out.

Above all, embrace your natural beauty. Remember, makeup should enhance your natural elegance, and you don’t need to apply layers of makeup to look beautiful. 

Love Your Body

We can’t say it enough—wellness begins with self-love. Drink plenty of water. Meditate. Spend quality time with your family. Reflect on everything that makes you beautiful, as those are the same reasons why you’re unique. 

When you love your body, you love yourself. Incorporate these tips into your beauty routine and remember that it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. Wellness is a journey, and with a few simple lifestyle changes, you can make the world of difference. 

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.