Tag Archives: health

Apr27

Top Tips For A Great Night’s Sleep

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Top Tips For A Great Night’s Sleep

There are so many things that get in the way of a good night’s sleep. From work stress and the responsibilities of your family, to illness and everyday life, it’s very difficult to get that quality sleep that you need. You may not be able to control factors that can interfere with your sleep, but there are habits that you can take on to encourage your sleep to be better.

You deserve to sleep through the night, and that means looking at the ways that you can upgrade your space. Whether you change your bedding from cotton to linen bedding, or you choose to get thinner bedding so that you can feel more comfortable, you need to look at what you could be doing right now to change your sleep situation. Let’s take a look at some tips to help you sleep better at nighttime:

Put yourself on a schedule:

Yes, children are the ones that often are on a schedule, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t too! Set aside no more than eight hours for sleep and try to get at least seven. A healthy adult needs to have at least seven hours of sleep per night, but most people don’t need more than that to be very well rested. If you go to bed at the same time and you set an alarm for the same time every day, you will be consistent in your body’s sleep and wake cycle. If you’re not falling asleep quickly when you go to bed, leave the room and do something relaxing. You could read or you could listen to music, and then you can go back to bed when you feel fully tired. Eventually you’re going to get your body into the right cycle.

If you have been trying to adhere to a sleep schedule and still find yourself tossing and turning or struggling to fall asleep, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor. They might recommend medication or a sleep aid that you can get sans prescription like Dreamwater Sleep. Be sure to keep track of any positive or negative experiences with a medication or sleep aid so you can report back to your doctor and make adjustments as needed.

Pay attention to your diet:

If you go to bed hungry, you’re not going to be able to rest. If you go to bed too full, you’re going to feel like you’re trying to digest while you are laying down which is not good for you or your stomach. Make sure that you are leaving at least an hour or so after you eat before you go to bed and try to avoid too much in the way of caffeine or alcohol right before bed. Nicotine and caffeine can stimulate, where alcohol can make you feel sleepy but it can disrupt your sleep later on.

Be in the right environment:

Your room should be kept cool and quiet but it should also be quite dark. Too much light can make it more of a challenge to fall asleep and you should avoid prolonged use of your phone or your tablet when you should be going to sleep. Calming activities like yoga or taking a warm bath can help you to promote better sleep and feel more comfortable. Should the light coming in from your windows be the issue, you might want to look into special shape shutters to fit any space and blackout curtains. Fitted shutters are especially great if you have a nontraditional shaped window like a circle, triangle, or quarter round and can really improve your quality of sleep.

No matter what you do, pay attention to the way your body feels after trying these new things and you will be able to ensure that you are getting the best possible night’s sleep!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Apr7

Aspects Of Your Lifestyle That Impact Your Oral Health

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Aspects Of Your Lifestyle That Impact Your Oral Health

The three starting points for having great oral hygiene are to make sure that you brush, floss, and use mouthwash at home. However, you need to make sure that you are looking at different aspects of your lifestyle – could they be undoing all of your hard work? Here are a few things that could be having an impact on your teeth:

Stress:

The modern world can be very stressful and demanding, but if you don’t manage to get your stress levels under control then you might be waking up with headaches and jaw aches. Often these two things are a sign that you are clenching your teeth at night. So what can you do about it? First, you need to look at what you can do to reduce your stress levels. If you know that you are clenching your teeth and are unable to make sure that you are reducing your stress levels – then you need to speak to your dentist about the situation. They may be able to fit you with a mouth guard to stop the damage to your teeth.

Diet:

Do you have an ultra-sweet tooth? While some sugar isn’t too bad, if you are finding that you are snacking on sweets, candies, cakes, and other sweet treats often – you might not be brushing your teeth enough! For those who have a lot of sugar in their diet, it is beneficial for them to brush more times a day to reduce the chances of tooth decay and plaque. Sugar attacks your teeth, so being vigilant about your tooth care is a must. If possible, reduce the amount of sugar that you are eating in a day. Not only will it help your teeth but you’ll feel better in general.

There are some foods that can support good oral health too:

Cheese, milk, and other dairies

Black and green tea

Chewing gums (sugar free)

Foods with fluoride (poultry, seafood, and some cereals)

Fiber-rich vegetables and fruit

And one of the most important things is to make sure that you are drinking a lot of water too. Water helps dislodge any food particles between brushing, and that prevents plaque.

Dental appointments:

Are you regularly visiting your dentist? Many people skip going because they think they don’t need to go. But your dentist will be able to spot issues that are just starting and help you tackle them too. If you have skipped more than a few appointments and you can’t face your old dentist – register somewhere new. And, for those who have dental angst – speak to them in advance so that they know you need extra support.

Dental appointments don’t just take care of dental health with things like fillings, removal, and gum care. You might want to make some adjustments like braces, a whitening, or porcelain crowns. If your last appointment was more than six months ago, then it is time to give them a call and get checked out.

Medication:

There are some medications that can cause you to have a dry mouth – and when you have a dry mouth, you are more likely to suffer from tooth decay. There are a couple of things you can do. You can speak to your doctor to see if there are any other medications that will treat you, but that won’t dry your mouth as a side effect. Or, you can speak to your dentist and see what measures you can take to help manage the risk of tooth decay.

Rest and Sleep:

You might think that almost all of the other body processes need rest and sleep – but not teeth. And in some respects, that is right. Lack of sleep impacts your immune system, and it is the immune system that helps to prevent gum disease. So while your teeth might not seem like they will suffer if you don’t sleep enough – the truth is that it is a risk to do anything that lowers your immune system. Gum disease can cause issues elsewhere in the body, and if it is left to progress, then tooth loss and pain are common issues.

The way you sleep could also be harmful to your teeth if you are grinding or clenching. When you grind or clench your teeth while catching some Z’s, it can lead to cracked teeth, jaw pain, sensitivity, and more. It is a good idea to check out the best night guard for clenching so you can avoid these painful side effects and keep your smile beautiful.

Alcohol and Smoking:

Alcohol, depending on the type, can either be sugar-laden or dry in the mouth. If you aren’t drinking water in between drinks, then the dehydration in your mouth is the perfect place for bacteria to grow. Compounded by the fact that many people forget to brush their teeth after a night of drinking. Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums, as it restricts the blood flow to your gums causing all sorts of issues. Not to mention it stains the teeth. If you do either of these and don’t want to give them up, be extra vigilant with your oral care.

There are a couple of other things that can have an impact on your teeth, too: 3 Common Habits That Could Affect Your Oral Health | lifewithlilred. Once your not so great habits are under control, your oral health will improve drastically!

Featured Image By: Vinicius “amnx” Amano on Unsplash

Mar31

Four Tips For A Healthier Family

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Four Tips For A Healthier Family

Our health is the most important thing we have. How can you guarantee your family’s health and make your children aware of its significance? Let’s take a look at some of the ways to focus your energy:

Show Them How Important Nutrition Is:

Making water the go-to beverage in your household should be a top priority. While it’s tempting to give in to a child’s desire for juice or pop, it’s better to offer them water first. Try stressing the significance of staying hydrated and modeling good water-drinking habits for children. Also, consider what you now feed your loved ones. When you prepare meals for your family, give thought to serving a variety of nutritious foods. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, nuts, and seeds. Indulge in takeaway or dining at restaurants occasionally, but don’t make it a regular habit. If your family enjoys dining out frequently, it’s important to instill solid decision-making skills in your children. Instead of letting young children get everything they want, provide them with a limited selection of options from which to choose.

Be An Active Family:

You should spend time together exploring the outdoors, learning about each other’s interests, and visiting new locations. Get your kids moving and teach them the value of fitness. Make plans for the weekend, even if it’s only to go to the park and play some soccer. Children are more likely to follow their parent’s example and lead an active lifestyle if they see it modeled at home. Take them on outdoor hikes and keep an eye out for animals and animal footprints if they have an interest in wildlife. Talking to youngsters and seeing what they’re interested in trying is a great way to get them excited about outdoor activities.

Go To Regular Check-Ups:

As an adult, you are aware of the importance of routine visits to the doctor, dentist, and eye doctor. It’s important to start sharing what you learn about health with your kids when you see the doctor, whether it’s for a problem or a routine exam. Children often express anxiety about medical visits due to their lack of knowledge and experience. If they see you visiting these places when they aren’t there, they may feel more comfortable and confident in going to such experts. Including the kids as soon as possible is the greatest option.

Even if you’re anxious, taking a proactive stance and reassuring them that they have nothing to worry about might help them develop a heightened awareness and, perhaps, a reduced level of fear. Show your kids where you’re going to appointments instead of just saying you have them. This is especially helpful for younger children who are venturing into the unknown for the first time. One poor encounter is all it takes to put them off coming again so make sure that you involve them in anything you may be having done such as same day teeth treatments.

Be A Good Example:

No one is flawless, therefore there’s no pressure to be. Nonetheless, parents can better influence their children’s behavior by leading through example rather than lecturing them. Be mindful of your words and actions. Many unhealthy parents raise unhealthy children, which in turn increases the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles. It has the potential to become a vicious cycle. It’s important to set an example for others by talking about your efforts to eat well, exercise regularly, spend time with your family, and maintain a positive mental and physical state. Provide unambiguous, truthful responses wherever possible.

Focus your energy on these four steps for a healthier family and lifestyle!

Featured Image By: Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

Mar22

The Power Of Focusing On Family Health

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The Power Of Focusing On Family Health

Health is something that affects every family. Despite the numerous advantages of consistent exercise, a healthy diet, and other lifestyle behaviors, many families find it challenging to work these habits into their daily schedules. However, by emphasizing the value of family wellness, parents can foster a culture in which their kids can start developing healthy habits at an early age, preparing them for success as adults:

The Power of Healthy Habits:

Developing healthy habits from an early age is essential for promoting a lifetime of good health. Studies have shown that children learn best through example, so it’s important for parents to lead by example and demonstrate healthy behaviors throughout the day. This includes eating nutritious meals, staying active, and getting enough sleep each night. Parents can also set aside time for family activities like going for walks or playing sports together – activities which encourage physical activity as well as quality bonding time.

Creating a Healthy Environment in the Home:

Parents should work to establish a healthy environment in the home in addition to focusing on their own habits. This includes providing wholesome meals and snacks for the family as well as making sure that there are always healthy choices accessible. Parents can also set limits on screen time and encourage activities like reading or playing board games instead. Having a regular bedtime routine, including winding down before bed, is also important for helping children get enough quality sleep each night.

Benefits of Raising a Health-Conscious Family:

Raising a health-conscious family has numerous benefits for both parents and children. Start by setting clear expectations about healthy habits, such as regular physical activity, eating nutritious meals, and getting enough sleep each night. It will be simpler to remain motivated and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine when everyone in the family is on the same page. Regularly discussing the importance of health with your children can also help them understand why these choices are beneficial in the long run.

Keeping Up With Medical Check-Ups and Exams:

It’s also important for parents to ensure that their children are up-to-date with all necessary medical check-ups and exams, such as hearing tests. Hearing loss can be a common issue in children, so it’s important to catch any hearing problems as early as possible. If hearing aids are needed, getting them fitted promptly is essential for reducing the risk of developing speech or language delays due to hearing loss. Having hearing aids fitted when recommended will ensure that your child can hear properly and participate fully in school and other activities.

By making family health and wellness a priority in the home, parents can help create an environment of healthy habits that will last well into adulthood. From leading by example to incorporating preventive care into your routine, there are many ways parents can promote overall well-being in their household. By taking these steps now, families have the opportunity to create a lifetime of good health for themselves.

Featured Image By: Terje Sollie

Mar21

Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

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Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, can cause redness and bumps on the skin. It is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is generally caused by an overproduction of keratin, the protein responsible for forming our skin’s texture and protection. Fortunately, several treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of chicken skin and keep it from returning:

Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers:

To control chicken skin, it’s essential to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers when dealing with it. Strong soaps can irritate the sensitive bumps on the surface of the skin. Cleansers with lactic acid can help reduce redness, improve hydration, and create a smoother texture. Once your face or body has been cleansed, a moisturizer should be used to keep the affected area soft and prevent itching. When choosing a product, look for something that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, as they can lock in moisture without clogging pores.

skin4

Exfoliate regularly:

Exfoliating regularly is the best way to keep your skin looking smooth and healthy. Be sure to use a gentle exfoliant suited for sensitive skin. Exfoliation helps shed away dead cells on the surface of the skin, revealing brighter, healthier skin and allowing moisturizers to be absorbed more easily. Start slow, taking time with each section of the affected area by softly massaging it with an exfoliator in circular motions with lukewarm water. Regular exfoliation helps prevent chicken skin from occurring while also providing some relief from existing lesions in less severe cases.

Apply topical retinoid creams:

Correctly applying topical retinoid creams when dealing with chicken skin is one of the most effective treatments for this condition. Dermatologists may recommend topical retinoid creams containing an active ingredient called tretinoin. Not only does this help exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it also helps to reduce inflammation caused by keratosis pilaris. When applying topical retinoid creams, it is essential to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to avoid potential side effects like skin irritation or dryness. Additionally, applying sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight is recommended to prevent further damage.

Get help from an expert:

An expert dermatologist can be invaluable when treating Keratosis Pilaris (commonly referred to as Chicken Skin). Dermatologists can assist in managing this condition by prescribing topical creams or lotions. Also, they may suggest over-the-counter products and give personalized advice on skincare routines to keep skin moist as dryness can exacerbate keratosis pilaris symptoms. Dermatologists may also provide in-office treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to lessen the appearance of bumps. While medication can help manage symptoms effectively, there’s no permanent solution for keratosis pilaris; ongoing care may be necessary.

Avoid harsh products:

To correctly manage chicken skin and avoid flare-ups, it is essential to steer clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and irritating fabrics like wool. Harsh soaps can strip away vital oils that protect the skin and keep its natural pH balance intact. Fragrances are particularly troublesome because they often contain ingredients that cause redness and itching. Additionally, fabrics such as wool can be highly irritating when they come in contact with the skin. Sticking with softer or more cotton materials is best to ensure optimal comfort levels. Taking these small steps can significantly reduce symptoms of chicken skin and provide increased relief from uncomfortable conditions associated with this condition.

Use aloe vera gel:

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for treating various skin irritations, including chicken skin. It has anti-inflammatory and otherwise cooling properties which are deeply soothing for dry, sensitive skin. The gel derived from the aloe vera plant should be applied directly to affected areas of the skin and gently massaged in. This will work to reduce both redness and irritation that can often accompany chicken skin.

Using aloe vera regularly is an essential step towards effective and lasting management of this condition because it works as an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress, which can cause further damage to already sensitive skin. Allowing aloe vera gel to rest on the surface of the skin at least once per day can lead to reduced itchiness, improved texture, and fewer outbreaks over time.

skin5

Drink plenty of water daily:

Proper hydration of the skin is essential to restoring its natural balance when dealing with chicken skin. While moisturizing creams and treatments can help improve dry, itchy, and bumpy patches associated with chicken skin, drinking plenty of water daily is integral for internal and external healthy skin. When your body receives a consistent supply of water it helps detoxify the skin, delivers oxygen to all cells allowing them to regenerate efficiently, and regulates the body’s temperature – all of which are key for healing chicken skin. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to avoid further dehydration of the skin.

These are just a few ways that you can manage and treat chicken skin. With the right combination of treatments, it is possible to control this condition and prevent flare-ups!

Mar18

A Trip To The Periodontist

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A Trip To The Periodontist

Hello! At the beginning of 2019, I had my wisdom teeth removed and got gum grafting done. Unfortunately, what should have been a pretty routine surgery went horribly wrong and I was limited to a liquid diet for over a month. I still shudder at the sight of Ensure! After this mishap, I refused to go to any type of dentist because I was scared and my oral hygiene deeply suffered from it. This went on for over a year until I finally agreed to make an appointment with the periodontist who my mom recommended and promised was really nice. She was right!

Since 2020, I have gone to my periodontist several times for regular cleanings and deep gum cleanings to repair the damage that had been done. I tried my best to go along with their recommendations, but ended up falling short of expectations every appointment. It was very disappointing, to say the least. During my last appointment this past October, I had to get X-rays taken of my teeth to prep for my next deep cleaning. The process was long and uncomfortable and after that appointment, I threw my hands in the air and said “screw it”. Then, I went to the store and bought floss picks for the very first time in my adult life.

After that fateful appointment, I flossed morning and night like my life depended on it. I was so sick and tired of lackluster results and knew that some of the fault was my own at this point. At first, the flossing hurt like a mother and don’t even get me started on using Listerine afterwards because that was about a bitch too lol. However, it did get easier and less painful as time went on. I just didn’t know if it was enough to finally get the stamp of approval from my periodontist.

This past Wednesday, I had an early morning appointment to get a deep gum cleaning and I was nervous AF. Not for the cleaning itself because it’s not that bad, but for what would be found when my gums were examined. I informed my periodontist that I started flossing and he took a look at what was going on before prepping for the cleaning. Within ten seconds, he told me that they weren’t going to do anything and that I could go home. You could have knocked me over with a feather!!

Thanks to the new step in my oral hygiene routine, the pockets around my teeth started to shrink and went down over two sizes. This was the first time in FOUR years that I had not just good results, but excellent and I was beyond thrilled. The entire team at the office was so proud of me and, damnit, I was too. I couldn’t stop smiling all morning because of my GREAT SUCCESS and the fact that the smile I was flashing was a healthy one.

Although flossing was a better late than never situation for me, don’t be like me lol. I was absolutely traumatized from my surgery gone wrong and it made me stubborn. Had I done what I needed to do in the first place, my oral hygiene would have been in a good place years ago. Listen to your healthcare professionals because I promise you they know what they’re talking about and the small changes to your routines can really help!

Do you have a fear of the doctor or dentist? What helped you overcome it? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb20

Build Your Self Confidence With These Tips

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Build Your Self Confidence With These Tips

It is absolutely essential for us to take the time to build our self confidence as it can profoundly shape how we experience our lives. Self confidence is a huge factor in how people perceive themselves, their environment, and how they interact with others. When people have low self confidence or lack of it, they tend to be easily affected by external factors like criticism or failure. On the other hand, when someone has high self-esteem and confidence, they can handle life’s issues without giving into fear or stress. This article will explain why improving your self confidence is of cardinal importance and some practical steps you can take towards building more confidence in yourself:

The Benefits & Power Of Self Confidence:

When you have healthy and positive self-esteem, it allows you to believe in yourself and confront any challenges or obstacles that come your way. You are more likely to take risks and make bold decisions when you feel confident about yourself. Plus, having high levels of confidence enables you to live a happier, more fulfilled life since the assurance that comes with it helps you appreciate who you are and embrace your unique qualities. It has been proven that people with greater self confidence tend to be healthier physically as they’re better able to handle stressful events without breaking down from anxiety or depression.

Building Your Self Confidence:

Now that you know the power of self confidence and why you should strive to have it, let’s talk about practical steps to build your own:

Focus on positive affirmations: Start by consistently telling yourself that you are capable and worthy of success. Positive affirmations like “I am strong and powerful” or “I am a valuable person” will help increase your self-esteem and provide an emotional boost when needed.

Identify areas for growth: Take the time to analyze where you currently stand in terms of self confidence. If certain aspects of yourself could use some improvement, such as communication skills or public speaking ability, make a plan for how you will work on them.

Set achievable goals: Setting realistic and achievable goals is an essential part of building any level of self confidence. When you can see that your hard work is paying off, it will motivate you to keep going and also build a sense of pride in yourself. Choose tasks that you know are within your reach and build from there.

Practice self care: Taking the time to do something nice for yourself can help increase your self-esteem. Whether it’s taking a few minutes out of your day for meditation, treating yourself to a massage, or even allowing yourself some time away from technology, these small acts help remind us that we are deserving of love and care.

When you find acts of self care that really work for you, embrace it! Self care is a wonderful way to reward yourself and provides something to look forward to. If you’re like me, your favorite form of self care comes from being pampered. Scheduling regular appointments for hair, nails, or skin care treatments at a quality med spa can become that perfect self-care ritual. Whether you’re looking for services at Grand Blanc Med Spa or exploring options in your own area, prioritize locations with excellent reviews for their staff and expertise to ensure you get the rejuvenating experience you deserve.

Build relationships: Lastly, it’s important to surround yourself with positive people who will help motivate and encourage you. Having strong relationships with family and friends is essential for self confidence as it gives us a support system that can remind us of our greatness when we are feeling down.

Facing Your Insecurities:

Sometimes we have insecurities that can be difficult to face. Eczema is one such issue, and it can cause feelings of low self-esteem or embarrassment in those who suffer from it. Luckily, there are treatments available to help you manage eczema and improve your overall skin health. Creams and ointments containing corticosteroids are often used as eczema treatments as they can reduce inflammation and help soothe the skin. In addition, moisturizing on a regular basis is also very important in preventing eczema flare ups, as well as avoiding irritants like certain fabrics or chemicals that could worsen symptoms.

Feeling insecure in your body occasionally is completely normal. However, if you are constantly focusing on the areas you think need improvement, it can really effect your mental health. If this is the case for you, there is nothing taboo or wrong about seeking surgical or medical intervention. It could be finding a well reviewed surgeon to schedule a Facelift consultation with or getting medical help for weight loss. Whatever it may be, you don’t have to face your insecurities alone.

Participate in activities that make you feel good:

This step is all about learning to do something for yourself and having fun! Choose activities that make you feel happy, such as reading a book, listening to your favorite music, or taking a yoga class. Doing things that bring joy into your life can have an incredibly positive impact on your self confidence.

Having self confidence can give you the power to keep pushing forward when faced with any hurdles or obstacles. With dedication and commitment, anyone can learn how to build their self-esteem and appreciate themselves for who they are. Remember that it’s okay to take time for yourself and practice some self care; after all, taking care of yourself should always come first!

Featured Image By: Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Feb17

5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

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5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

It can be challenging to properly manage a chronic illness at first. But it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life by taking proper care of it. Here is how you can help yourself out with these simple tips:

Pay Attention to Your Medication:

When you first get sick, it can be strange to have to take so many medications. People with epilepsy and diabetes have to follow their doctors’ orders very carefully. Otherwise, you can experience severe consequences. An online pharmacy like The Canadian Drug Store is a godsend if you can’t move around much, live in a remote area, or can’t get out for other reasons. You can easily order what you need and have it brought right to your door.

Listen to Your Doctor:

If you have a chronic illness, your doctor may suggest medications, therapies, or changes to your way of life to help you deal with it. In many cases, it’s important to carefully follow their advice and take your medicines as they say. And if you have questions or worries about your treatment plan, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor or nurse about them. You’ll never be turned away if you ask about it.

Educate Yourself:

It can be very helpful to learn as much as you can about a condition you have. It can help you understand why your doctor wants you to make changes and cut down on the 25% of hospital stays that happen every year because people don’t do what they’re told. You can easily find reliable sources online. Or make positive changes with support from groups.

Keep a Journal of Activities:

Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes can be beneficial. You can then give this information to your doctor, who can use it to make any necessary changes to your treatment plan. The easiest way to do this is to write down your symptoms every day in a notebook or an app. Write down how bad each symptom is and if there are any things, like foods or activities, that make it worse.

Look After Yourself:

This is probably something you’ve heard a thousand times. But living a healthy life can help you deal with the symptoms of a long-term illness. This means eating a healthy, balanced diet, working out regularly, and getting enough sleep. All of these are good ways to deal with stress. Also, it’s always good to avoid bad habits like smoking and drinking too much alcohol. You may also need to stay away from foods or activities that make your symptoms worse or start them.

It can be challenging physically and emotionally to properly manage a chronic illness. Use the tips above to make things a little easier on yourself!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan27

Help Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy With These Tips

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Help Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy With These Tips

As parents age, they may need more help with daily activities and health care. To ensure good health for aging parents, several options must be considered. From diet and exercise to mental health, here are five tips to help you support your aging parents as they transition into this new stage of their lives:

Pay Attention To Diet & Nutrition:

Eating a balanced diet is essential at any age, especially during the senior years. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain energy levels and improve overall health. Reducing sugar intake and limiting red meat consumption are also essential, as these can increase cholesterol levels. Additionally, make sure your parents are taking any necessary vitamins or supplements that would benefit their health. If cost is an issue, many stores offer discounted vitamins specifically tailored to seniors’ needs. Sometimes, you might notice that the appetite of your loved one has decreased significantly. This can be very difficult so take the time to look at these tips for boosting appetite in older adults to get them back on track in a healthy way.

Encourage Them To Exercise:

Regular exercise plays an essential role in maintaining physical health for older adults. Exercise helps strengthen muscles and bones, improves endurance, boosts immunity, and increases the production of endorphins, which can positively affect mood. Be sure to consult with a doctor before beginning any new exercises or activities as there are some that may not be appropriate depending on your parent’s current state of health or mobility level.

Nurture Good Mental Health & Socialization:

Seniors often experience feelings of isolation due to reduced mobility or social outlets. It’s essential that they still feel connected to family members and friends and stay engaged in activities that bring them joy, such as reading books or watching movies online with family members who live far away! Check in regularly with your parents about how they’re feeling – not just physically but mentally and look out for signs of depression, such as changes in sleep patterns or lack of motivation which may require professional assistance from a counselor or therapist, if needed.

Another way to improve mental health and foster more socialization can come from some extra help. Home health care services also includes companion care and can get your loved one out and about when you aren’t able. A reliable caretaker can also give you some much needed down time. To begin researching different services, simply enter a search for “home health care agencies in philadelphia pa” (or your local area). You will be amazed by what a helping hand can do!

Consider A Nursing Home:

It’s important to talk openly with your parents about their senior professional care support preferences and discuss if a nursing home would be beneficial for them. Nursing homes can provide professional medical care, companionship, and help with activities of daily living that they may not be able to do on their own. Make sure you thoroughly research the facility before making any decisions, as some may not have the best reputation or offer adequate medical care to seniors. You don’t want to have to contact a Nursing Home Justice Center after discovering your parents are victims of nursing home abuse.

Safety Management:

As people age, their risk for falls increases due to weakened muscles and/or reduced vision. Safety measures should be put into place in order to prevent falls from occurring inside the home, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom or installing motion sensor lights throughout hallways/stairs if possible. Establishing a contact list of family members or close friends who can be called in case of an emergency is also recommended. Alternatively, you can consider investing in a medical alert system that will allow your parents access to 24-hour medical assistance if needed.

Aging is not easy, and your parents may need support to maintain their physical and mental health. Keep these five tips in mind as you help them navigate this new life stage!

Featured Image By: Yan Krukau

Jan17

Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions With These Solutions

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Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions With These Solutions

Are you making a New Year’s resolution for a more healthy lifestyle? If so, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, many of these resolutions often fail due to a lack of planning and support. Even when you make the conscious choice to live healthier by implementing simple steps, such as switching your food choices or being more active, these decisions can be tricky to maintain in the long term. In reality, most of us end up unknowingly self-sabotaging because we lack support. Here’s what to do about that and where to find the support you need this year:

Creating a support system:

Creating a support system is key to successfully turning your healthy resolutions into reality. No matter how much we plan and prepare, there will be times when we simply lack the motivation to make healthy choices. This is why having a support system is so important: It helps provide encouragement and accountability to keep us on track. Having a supportive group of friends, family members, or colleagues will give you a group to share in your success and push you to keep improving.

Picking the right insurance:

Having the right insurance coverage is an important part of any health plan. Whether you are trying to make healthy lifestyle changes or just need financial protection, having the right insurance can make a huge difference:

Medical Insurance: Medical insurance is a great way to get access to preventative care like physicals, screenings, and vaccinations. It can also provide financial protection for medical emergencies, helping to ensure that you receive the care you need without breaking the bank. As not all policies are made equal, you want to research the best option for you.

Life Insurance: Life insurance is a way to provide financial security for your loved ones in the event of your death. It can provide funds to pay off debts and provide financial support to those who depend on you. More importantly, it’s part of a long-term health plan involving your family. Unsure about the right policy for you? It’s worth reading about it, starting with these National Life Group reviews for guidance.

Seeking specialist support:

Why do everything alone when you can find guidance from experts? Hiring a personal trainer will help you reach your health and fitness goals this year. Personal trainers offer personalized support and guidance to help keep you motivated and on track with your fitness journey. They provide custom advice and support and can also help you create a fitness program tailored to your individual needs and abilities. A personal trainer is also like your own personal cheerleader. They provide encouragement and love sharing in your success.

Going to the gym and hiring a trainer is a big step and it can be a nerve wracking process, especially if this is something you haven’t done before. If you are feeling wary about going into a gym, personal trainers like Andy Griffiths PT also operate online. This can be an amazing first introduction to working out with a trainer from the comfort of your home. When you are ready to tackle the gym, you can do so with confidence.

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A nutritionist can also be a big help in achieving a healthier lifestyle. Even if you think you already know what a healthy diet looks like, seeing a nutritionist can provide insights on how to add variety and make sure you’re getting the proper nutrients for your specific needs.

Don’t let your New Year’s resolutions die out this January. Seize the opportunity to go further and give yourself a chance for success!

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