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.   

6 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your OB

Choosing an obstetrician is not a decision to be taken lightly. You’ll want to choose a doctor who not only has great qualities but who also has an excellent track record when it comes to prenatal care and delivery. According to Hankey Law Office, a group of Indianapolis birth injury lawyers, “Often, birth injuries are the result of either improper/insufficient prenatal treatment or are caused by doctors who fail to react quickly enough to complications that arise during childbirth.” Here’s what to look for when choosing an obstetrician.

Photo by Ryan Franco on Unsplash

1. Specific Advantages
It’s true that you’ll likely want to find an obstetrician that is available through your health insurance plan, but that doesn’t mean that you have to settle for anything less than what you consider to be the best doctor for you. First off, you may prefer to have a female doctor over a male or vice-versa. Next, the obstetrician’s access to your hospital of choice may also be important. After-hours availability is another advantage you may want. And of course, having a doctor with an awesome track record should be non-negotiable in a decision as important as this.

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

3. Stellar Patient Reviews  
Although many people don’t take the time to write a review online if they are satisfied with their doctor’s care, many people will take the time if they are upset or have had a negative experience. And those negative reviews can provide a wealth of insight to you. Do yourself a favor and take the time to research obstetricians you are considering as your doctor so you can identify any potential red flags. Health Grades — a site that houses doctor reviews and ratings — is a good place to start looking.

Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels

4. Location of Office 
The location of the OB’s office is another factor to consider, especially if you live in a city that becomes clogged with heavy traffic throughout the day. If you’re still working while pregnant, this factor could become even more important. If the OB’s office is far away or will take considerable time to reach from your workplace due to traffic, you may want to exclude that particular doctor.

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

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

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

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

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

We hope these tips have helped you. 

Don't Feel Bad About Getting a Facelift

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

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

Photo by Icons8 team on Unsplash

Self-esteem for a healthy life

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

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

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

Photo by Candice Picard on Unsplash

You deserve to be pampered

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

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

Take control of your own destiny

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

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

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

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

Photo by Candice Picard on Unsplash

An investment in your future

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

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

Facelifts can be a point of pride

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

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

7 Warning Signs & Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

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

Photo by freestocks.org on Unsplash

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

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

Photo by Anthony Tran on Unsplash

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

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

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

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

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

image credit

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

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

Airfree Air Purifiers 40% Off July 4th Sale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 Ways To Achieve A Healthier Lifestyle As A Family

This post is sponsored by Natrol but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Summertime is in full swing for many of us with school being out. Most parents have registered the kids for summer camps/activities, made vacation plans, or are simply doing the local staycation. Whatever your plans are, the kids will be ready for some fun!

Something we all have in common as parents is we want our families to be happy and healthy. Sometimes it's a bit of a challenge to get the kids on board for the healthy part. Today we will share some tips on how you can achieve a healthier lifestyle together as a family.

1. Play together! 

Whether you are at the beach, or the backyard, there are many opportunities to get active. Try challenging the kids to a race. It's a great way to get your heart pumping, and your entire body moving. Make a game out of collecting rocks or shells. Before you know it, you all would have walked more than you realized.

2. Hold a family meeting

Make it a priority each month to hold a family meeting with everyone present. It doesn't have to be super long or in a formal setting. Discuss your financial and personal goals, as well your health goals. Have each family member document those goals. Charts are a great idea for younger children. Make those health goals a top priority!

3. Meal plan together

Instead of listening to the kids whine about dinner, include them! Have each person choose a theme for a particular day of the week, and go from there. Whether it's Meatless Monday or Taco Tuesday, everyone can state their likes or dislikes and agree on the menu collectively. Kids tend to be more interested in food when they were involved in picking out or planning the meal.

4. Hold each other accountable for making healthier choices

Make plans to hold each other accountable for drinking a certain amount of water each day, exercising, and taking daily multi-vitamins like Natrol Gummies. As a matter of fact, Natrol Multi Gummies are made with 26 fruits and veggies! Plus, they’re made with organic ingredients, are non-GMO, gelatin-free and vegetarian.

*As parents, we are pleased that Natrol Gummies are not only good for you, but they also taste great! They aren't super chewy so they don't tend to stick to your teeth. There is a formula for everyone in the family with the Women's Multi, Men's Multi, and Kid's Multi.

Natrol gummies are a great way to get those extra daily vitamins and minerals you might be lacking from you diet. If you're shopping and stop by the supplement aisle, just look for the purple top. We hope you and your family have a safe, happy, and healthy summer!

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases.

Basic First Aid Tips for Parents

Children are very prone to accidents and it is important that any sort of injuries are treated properly. When you are a parent, you’ll want to help them get through their pain as soon as possible but how can you do this if you don’t know how to properly perform first aid? If you’d like to know more about how you can help your child with their cuts, burns and sprains, keep reading our basic first aid tips below.

Having the right kit

Before we get started on our tips, you must first understand the importance of a proper first aid kit. Medical first aid kits can be purchased online that provide you with everything you need to help your child with their injury. You’ll need to make sure that you have all of the important first aid items in your kit. This includes things like plasters, bandages, pins, wipes and tweezers. Make sure to keep your first aid kit restocked so that you are covered in an emergency.

Small Cuts and Scrapes

If your child likes to run about outside, it is likely that they fall and cut themselves quite often. This is normal for all children and you need to remember that the bleeding will stop in a few minutes. To stop the bleeding, you should apply pressure for around 5 to 10 minutes. You should then clean out the wound using water and make sure that there is no dirt or stones etc in the wound. After this, you can apply some antibiotic ointment and then cover it with a plaster or bandage. This is fairly simple, but you should always remember to clean out the wound!

Sprains and Strains

A strain happens when a muscle is stretched or torn. If this happens to your child, they’ll likely complain of soreness and there might even be some bruising or swelling for a while. For the more serious injuries, known as sprains, ligaments might have been torn and so it is likely to take a little longer to heal. You should always check carefully the severity of the pain and if you suspect a sprain, you should go to see a doctor to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. To help treat an accident like this at home, you should make sure that your child rests the affected part of their body. You should then add ice to reduce the swelling. After this, you can use a bandage or a splint to compress the area and prevent any sort of swelling from happening. You should always make sure that the strain is elevated so that it is above your child’s heart.

If you follow this advice, you’ll be able to react more quickly to any sort of accidents that might happen when you are at home or out in a park somewhere. Make sure to always have a stocked up first aid kit and you’ll be ready for any sort of medical emergency.

5 Amazing Benefits of Almonds for Beauty and Weight Loss

The benefits of almonds for skin and weight loss are not only many, but also proven by numerous studies. Enjoying these delicious tree nuts (although they are actually seeds) can help you lose weight, lower blood cholesterol, and give your skin a healthy glow.

Photo by Tetiana Bykovets on Unsplash

5 Benefits of Almonds Proven by Science

1. Reduced risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure

Heart disease is one of the most common causes of premature death in the world. While eating almonds won’t prevent this tragedy with a 100% guarantee, a study from the School of Life and Health Sciences at Aston University Birmingham has proven that snacking on a handful of almonds every day reduces this risk.

The reason for this is that these nuts enrich your body with antioxidants, which improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. High blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

2. Better weight loss due to appetite suppression

You might be surprised to learn that almonds are one of the best appetite suppressants. When added to a program that contains supplements with the same effect, you will definitely achieve your weight loss goals much faster. While supplements will control one’s appetite by affecting levels of hormones that trigger the feeling of hunger, almonds help dull it by filling up your digestive system with carbs.

Nuts are high in nutrients and dietary fiber, which means they take a while to digest, so they make you feel full longer. That’s why they make great snacks on a diet as almonds can prevent hunger cravings.

3. Better skin due to vitamin E

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient and very potent antioxidant. Various health benefits of almonds mostly come from the fact that they are rich in this particular element. Vitamin E helps lower blood cholesterol, which is one of the main reasons why nuts are good for heart health.

This element is also the main contributor to the positive effect that almonds have on skin. Vitamin E does not only protect it from oxidative damage. It helps keep your skin hydrated and reduces the visible signs of aging.

Note that vitamin E is also essential for hair and nail health. Therefore, this food boosts your natural beauty on every level.

4. Reduced blood sugar spikes

Almonds are rich in a variety of nutrients, including magnesium. A study published in Diabetes Care indicates that magnesium improves insulin sensitivity thus helping manage metabolic disorders, like type 2 diabetes.

Not only does magnesium in almonds help keep your insulin sensitivity at bay. They also reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes due to the fact that they are slow to digest and have a low glycemic index.

5. Enhanced muscle building

Benefits of almonds extend to bodybuilders as well because one cup of these nuts gives you about 30g of proteins. This is the biggest number among all tree nuts and that protein is easy to digest. This makes almonds one of the best muscle-building foods, which is another reason why they are good for weight loss.

Eating foods high in proteins in the morning also helps with appetite control. And due to healthy fats these nuts contain, they are a great source of energy for a workout.

However, don’t forget that all nuts are high in calories, so be sure to limit your intake of them. Eating a handful (about 50g) daily will allow you to enjoy all the health and beauty benefits of almonds.

Does O'Keeffe's Foot Cream Really Work?

Have you ever seen a commercial for a product that is marketed in such a way that you really want to try it out for yourself? I have seen the commercials and online ads for O'Keeffe's foot cream for a couple years now and I've been so curious about if it actually works. O'Keeffe's is supposed to be for extremely dry, cracked feet so I wanted to see if it would help these overworked tootsies since I am constantly on my feet. I am almost always barefoot or in flip-flops or sandals, so I finally decided to give it a shot. I ordered it on Amazon a couple weeks ago (after adding it to my wishlist 2 months prior) and have been using it daily for about 9 days now. 

It comes in a small jar and I was expecting a super thick cream, but it's not like that. It is a bright white color and does not feel greasy or heavy and is completely odorless. It absorbs quickly and you can walk barefoot or put on shoes right after applying without feeling like you're slipping or sliding. I noticed a difference in the appearance of my feet as well as the feel after the first use. Even my daughters tried it and noticed instant improvement. My husband gives me a foot rub every night and he's amazed at how soft my feet feel. 

The product makes like a barrier around your skin that keeps it from drying out and it holds the moisture all day long. I'm used to applying lotion or cream up to three times daily, but only use this once a day. I don't know what took me so long to try it, but I am glad I did! The bottoms of my feet feel like I go and get a pedicure every day. It's awesome and I really do recommend it to anyone. You can find it here for under $10 and for an even better deal, you can get both the healthy feet and working hands cream combo below. It works out to less than $15. If you have Amazon Prime, you can get FREE shipping.

Seriously, if your feet are in need of some real help, you have to give O'Keeffe's for Healthy Feet a try. This one goes on my top 5 beauty must-haves list. If you decide to try it out, let me know what you think. Thanks for stopping by today! 

7 Ways to Maintain a Young-Looking Face

We all want to look as youthful as possible for as long as possible. We spend money on creams, facials, fillers, and even sometimes plastic surgery. To get some tips for how we can maintain a young-looking face, we went to several great beauty professionals including Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia, who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20. Here’s what they all have to say.

1. Get rest.
There absolutely is such a thing as beauty sleep. “Women come to my practice thinking they need an eye-job or a facelift when all they need is sleep. Sleep is a time when we rejuvenate ourselves and cellular turnover is at its height. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep nightly will make a huge difference in how youthful a woman appears especially as she approaches age 30 and collagen production decreases,” says Dr. Brandow. “A woman can speed up aging if they are constantly sleep deprived.”

2. Use an overnight treatment.
If you suffer from breakouts or skin dryness leading to wrinkles or blotches, treating your skin concerns at night, is a way to maintain a youthful glow. “Work closely with your dermatologist or aesthetician who can recommend non-irritating skin treatments specifically addressing your concern,” advises Dr. Brandow. You want to take advantage of overnight options available to boost collagen and heal skin while sleeping. You may also want to consider using Gundry MD Dark Spot Diminisher. 

3. Hydrate
When it comes to anti-aging and putting your most youthful face forward, water is key. Water flushes your system of toxins which helps skin to glow. “Women spend a lot of money on topical creams formulated to boost moisture and hydrate the skin yet, if they integrated more water, even 4, 8 ounce glasses per day, they would see fewer wrinkles and an overall smoother younger skin texture within a month,” says Dr. Adriane Pompa, Miami based board certified dermatologist who specializes in aging skin.

4. Be smart about fillers
Fillers are used to add volume that diminishes as we age but people have taken it to extremes. There have been many advancements with fillers over the past 5 years offering more options and more sophisticated ways to administer them to achieve a youthful look.

According to Dr. Brandow, many patients believe that filling their cheeks will soften their laugh lines, so they push doctors to administer two to four syringes in their cheek bones and cheek area at once. This can result in swelling and doesn’t necessarily lift their face. Fillers are often done as an alternative to a face lift but, if not spread out over several weeks, it just gives the patient an unnatural look that distorts their face and makes them look odd.

“My personal preference is to perform the fillers sequentially. For example, I will use one syringe of filler in multiple locations. Then I’ll have patients return in 4-6 weeks and perhaps do another syringe to the same places, or different places, giving them an overall natural look. This leads to a softer, more natural result. The key to doing fillers well are going with small amounts every 4-6 weeks,” explains Dr. Brandow.

5. Get facials.
According to Dr. Adriane Pompa, one facial per month does wonders for skin’s clarity, texture, and ability to produce collagen. “There are many at-home facials available one can do weekly. The key is knowing your skin type and ingredients that address your specific skin concern. Also, you can treat different parts of the face differently depending on skin issue. Let’s say you are prone to breakouts on your jawline, have wrinkles on your forehead and dryness on the cheeks, your dermatologist or aesthetician can recommend a facial plan customized for you.”

6. Consider lasers and light!
Lasers are another tool that blasts away acne scars, evidence of past sun damage and evens out skin giving that flawless, youthful glow. There have been so many advancements with lasers resulting in more immediate results without downtime. Lasers typically cost between $600 - $1200 per treatment depending on the city and type of laser. The advantage with lasers is accuracy. You can treat a specific area without affecting the rest of the surrounding skin.

7. Tone down your make-up.
One way to immediately take 10 years off your look is to revamp your make-up. Consider hiring a professional make-up artist who can teach you how to enhance and even modernize your look. New York make-up artist, Carlo Geraci, who was protégé to Trish McEvoy and Kevin Aucion, explains that a lot of women are doing their make-up the same way they did 20 years ago. That bronzer that you loved in the 90’s when you were 24 may appear harsh and outdated at 44. “Heavy eye liner and strong lip colors may only accentuate wrinkles and fine lines. As women age, less is more when it comes to make-up. Opt for a great hydrating foundation or a touch of concealer, a pinch of blush, a swipe of mascara or a gray or brown eyeliner and a natural looking lip liner topped with a tinted hydrating balm,” he suggests.

About the Experts:
Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with 2 locations in the Philadelphia metro area and a 3rd one at the jersey shore. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.

Dr. Adriane Pompa is a board-certified dermatologist and Associate Professor of Dermatology at University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital who is highly trained in medical dermatology, dermatologic surgery and cosmetic dermatology. In addition to her general practice, she specializes in anti-aging skin care, skin cancer prevention and treatment, and laser use in dermatology.

Carlo Geraci, New York make-up artist has worked alongside Kevin Aucoin, helped launch the Trish McEvoy brand, and was invited by Barneys New York to became the first Beauty Guru, a position created specifically for him. His work has appeared in print and commercial campaigns, New York Fashion Week runways, red carpets, Broadway stages, television, film, and fashion editorials. He has also appeared on the Style Network, CBS News, and Today on NBC. 

How To Stomp Belly Fat And Enjoy A Flat Abdomen

Getting rid of belly fat is an admirable task, but you’re not the first one to propose such a mission. Belly fat is notoriously known as an outfit ruined and people often times complain about it. It also has a reputation for being something hard to get rid of, as opposed fat from other parts of the body. But once you are determined to eliminate belly fat and make it a thing of the past, it can’t do anything to stop you.

If you’re looking for ways in which you can burn the fat away and forever banish belly fat from the temple that is your body, you’ve come to the right place. In this article we will be taking a look at what is required in order to efficiently and permanently eliminate belly fat.

Always on the run

You might have thought that all you need for a flat belly is to do a thousand crunches every day and that should set you up for success.  That’s quite a straight forward approach but it is also unnecessary. What you can and should do however is keep moving and keep your heart rate up. Jogging is widely considered as one of the best ways in which you can burn belly fat ( and all types of fat, for that matter). Through jogging, you can say goodbye to belly fat fairly easily. This is because belly fat is visceral fat that is downed fast by body movement empowered activities like jogging, bike riding and of course swimming. It is recommended that you take up jogging for about 12 miles per week. That should get you where you need to go. It’s up to you to determine how much jogging you do each day although a constant average amount might serve you best.

Protein rule

Another vital element in belly fat burning is to up your protein intake from every meal. Belly fat storage is encouraged by the body when it begins to take in larger amounts of insulin as per the body’s reaction to aging. Protein on the other hand combats the resistance of insulin in the body and thus reduces the amount of fat that is stored on your belly. If you want to lose belly fat, than you should really look into increasing how much protein you consume in relation to other nutrients, so we’re not talking about just adding more protein over everything you already eat.

One trick that gives exemplary results is taking one or two tablespoons of vinegar each day. It is believed that the acetic acid produced protein which enter your body after vinegar consumption do a lot of work in terms of burning fat.

Yoga

The bane of belly fat are aerobic exercises. Consider enrolling in a yoga class to burn down some belly fat. This works because yoga reduces the body’s cortisol levels, which is a supporter of belly fat. Yoga doesn’t have to be a long lasting endeavor at the end of a drive. You can practice a couple of yoga poses at home, in only 10 minutes of your time.

Costco Offers More Than Just Buying In Bulk (Giveaway)

CLOSED- Winner is Naima G. Congratulations!! 

The first thing that comes to mind when I hear the name Costco, is bulk shopping. After all, it is a warehouse store filled with a variety of items for home and business. I was beyond thrilled to learn that my local area is FINALLY getting a warehouse! I have watched the documentary on TV before about the Costco Craze and have been obsessed intrigued ever since. I will be taking a tour of the new Costco and will report back with the details. I do want to share a few things in advance. Of course, Costco offers an array of well known brand names of food, household, health and beauty items as well as their very own brand, Kirkland Signature. I have to say that I am very impressed with the selection I have seen so far. Their signature line of products even include organics. I have tried out several of the food products and the quality has exceeded my expectations.

Those dried blueberries are great for snacking or adding to oatmeal, cereal, trail mix or even in pancakes or muffins. The fruit snacks are so yummy and are perfect for lunch boxes. 

Costco has a pharmacy and offers health and wellness clinics on scheduled dates/times. They have delivery service too. Planning a trip? Costco can help with their travel services to help you find the perfect destination for a cruise, rental car, hotel and more. You can even shop their different areas of service including phone services, auto program, bottled water delivery, mortgage services, and even life insurance. Needless to say, Costco seems to have most areas covered! They have different membership levels so take a look and see which one suits you best. I am so happy that I can finally experience Costco for myself. I'm looking forward to checking out their fresh produce, meats, and wine selection.

I am so thrilled to be able to offer a HUGE giveaway to my loyal readers. Enter below to win a Costco gift bag filled with a variety of Kirkland Signature products and more.

Here's what's included (KS= Kirkland Signature):

KS Cooking Spray- $4.99
KS Bacon Crumbles- $10.99
KS Protein Bars- $17.99
KS AAA Batteries- $18.99
KS Cashews- $13.99
KS Minced Garlic- $4.39
KS Organic Salsa- $7.69
KS Cashew Clusters- $11.99
KS Pepper Grinder- $5.69
KS Balsamic Vinegar- $10.99
KS Chocolate Covered Almonds- $11.99
KS Wild Pink Salmon- $11.99
KS Dried Steak Strips- $9.99
KS Trail Mix- $12.99
KS Crushed Red Pepper- $3.19
Charisma White Bath Towel- $6.99
Charisma Gun Metal Bath Towel- $6.99
Charisma 4 pack small towel set- $9.99
Costco Keep Cool Bag- $6.99
Total value: $188.81

Enter here:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will close on August 22, 2016. One winner will be selected at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize. Be sure to follow rules in Rafflecopter for entries to count. Good luck!

I received products samples and information from Costco in partnership with them to share the latest about their brands/products. All opinions are my own as always. 

New Product- Softsoap Brand Pure Foaming Hand Soap

Softsoap has added another hand soap to their product line. Introducing Softsoap Brand Pure Foaming Hand Soap. It comes in 2 scents- Fresh and Lemongrass. I like the fact that it is dye free and the fragrance is natural. The pump is easy to use and dispenses the product evenly and without any drips or mess. I like using this particular type of hand soap, especially for my little one.

Softsoap has been a trusted brand for me and my family for many years. It cleans effectively and leaves a very light fragrance. I like both scents, but the Fresh is my favorite. You can find this product at most mass retail, drug and grocery stores. They come in 8-ounce size and retail for $2.50.

You can learn about Softsoap's products on their website and follow them on Facebook for their latest products updates and promotions.

I received product samples from Colgate-Palmolive for review purposes. All opinions are my own as always. 

A Low-Cost Flat Iron That Works On Thick Biracial Hair

Hey there! I wanted to share my latest find that I was so impressed with, I had to write a review. My daughters have been using flat irons since the middle school days, and their very first one was a $100 CHI. It was the most amazing straightener ever and made their hair super smooth, silky and of course, straight. It lasted 2 girls with a ton of hair for about 2 years. We thought it was worth the $100 so we purchased a second one. This time it was just okay. It straightened the hair, but the plates seemed like they were not aligned evenly and it made the task harder. That one lasted a couple of years and we bought a CHI once more. For some reason this last one did not straighten very well at all. We decided to switch brands and go with Rusk. I read several Amazon reviews and the thing that made me want to buy it was the fact that many users had very thick biracial hair. I found a $199 version for $90 and decided to order it. This flat iron was hands-down the best one ever! It straightened coarse, curly hair and transformed it into a super smooth, shiny and luxurious look. It was worth the money and they girls really loved it until... Brie went away on a trip to Washington earlier this year and her flat iron never made it back home. She called the hotel twice as well as her roommates and there was no sign of it. It was barely a couple months old and I was NOT spending the money to replace it.

After doing some more research on Amazon, we found another flat iron by Rusk, this time for under $50. I figured since I was going to have Brie buy it with her own money, she may need something less expensive. It had great reviews, so we decided to order it and give it a try.

The shocking result? It worked just as well as its $199 big sister version! See how smooth and straight Brie's hair came out?

I highly recommend the Rusk W8less Professional Str8 Ceramic Flat Iron  if you are looking for a really good, inexpensive flat iron. It really is a great value! We are thinking of ordering another one to keep as a back-up. Let me know if you buy one. This is also a great gift idea!

This post contains affiliate links

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Turning 40 last year was not only a big milestone in my life, but also an eye-opener for many reasons. I have come to realize that my body has changed over time and with having three kids, some things are not the same. One in three women experience Light Bladder Leakage (LBL), which can be triggered by everyday occurrences like coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise. Many women rely on feminine care products or nothing at all to manage their little leaks because they don’t know there are solutions designed specifically for LBL or they don’t think incontinence products are for them. As the leader in the light incontinence category, Poise brand offers a variety of pads and liners to make it easy to find protection for every woman’s needs.

These shockingly thin and surprisingly absorbent liners feature SAM (Super Absorbent Material) to provide discreet Light Bladder Leakage (LBL) protection that helps keep you dry and comfortable all day long so you can manage life’s little leaks with confidence. Poise Microliners are the thinnest liners in the light incontinence category and are designed to absorb wetness, neutralize odor and stay three times drier than period liners.

Now I can go put on my red lipstick and face the world with confidence! Poise Microliners are so thin and discreet, I even forget they are there.

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