It is 2024, and if you are thinking of starting a new fitness challenge, eat healthier to improve your health. It is a great decision and step to take. Just so you know, there is nothing wrong with doing better or setting good goals.
There are few medical treatments that have shown the health benefits of exercising regularly. You need to decide what type of exercise is best for you, but how do you decide? You can get advice from your doctor or your personal trainer. It is also good to educate yourself about fitness by reading books or following trusted exercise classes.
Many people always scroll through social media, seeing lots of engaging fitspirational posts, which might not always be the best strategy. A new study suggests that you should rethink this strategy.
What is fitspiration?
Fitspiration is a social media post that is made with the intention of inspiring physical fitness and promoting good health. You can find fitspirational posts on different popular social media sites like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Tumblr, and YouTube. They usually include beautiful images and videos of people giving advice on food and exercise, as well as inspirational sayings and quotes.
If you search for #fitspiration (or related hashtags like #fitspo) on Instagram alone, you will see close to 100 million posts at the moment. The majority of them show pictures of fit, attractive, and slender ladies working out while discussing fitness and maximizing health.
Why is fitspiration a problem?
The pro-fitness message that millions of individuals see might have positive benefits. But the message needs to be credible and from a valid source. Importantly, posts shouldn't provide false, damaging, or ineffective information. Which is the problem with fitpiration.
Social media fitness has effects, and according to research, when you are focused on realistic exercise goals rather than appearance, These posts have their sides and downsides for those watching, which include:
Being dissatisfied with their body
Poor mood and negative false feelings
Thinking they are not attractive
Accepting that being thin is ideal and the only beauty standard accepted.
More focused on their appearance than function and capability.
A study of #fitspiration: Do these social media updates genuinely motivate exercise?
The fitspiration hashtags that are used by Instagram influencers to rate the quality of their posts. A recent study carried out showed some disappointing results, but these weren't surprising.
100 Fitspiration influencers on Instagram were listed by the writers. The last 15 posts made by each of these accounts were checked, and these posts were untrustworthy.
- They showed nudity or revealing clothing by wearing bikinis at the gym.
- sexualized the person exercising, such as by focusing on a woman's breasts or buttocks.
- Included are pictures of people with extreme body types, like those who are excessively muscular or terribly underweight.
- They did not focus on health; their messages promoted thinness or other negative messages.
- contained fitness information in three or fewer posts out of 15.
It is the weekend, ladies let us take time out to care for our inner parts because it is very important.
With the help of natural fluids, the vagina is meant to keep itself clean (discharge). Learn how to maintain your vagina clean and healthy, and why you don't need vaginal wipes or douches. In general, good vaginal health can be maintained by maintaining good overall health.
Sanitary pads, feminine spray and deodorants, scented oils, bubble baths, bath oils, talc or powder are all examples of feminine hygiene items that can irritate the vulva.
Wearing nylon tights or panty girdles is not recommended. They trap heat and moisture, making them ideal for organisms to reproduce. Before wearing leggings wear nylon or cotton pants.
After washing, rinse underclothes well or double-rinse. Using too much detergent is highly not advisable.
Before wearing new underwear, make sure they're clean.
If your healthcare physician recommends it, take sitz baths daily.
It is highly recommended to wear only 100 per cent cotton underwear. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to vulvar discomfort, avoid wearing nylon, acetate, or other artificial fibres.
Vaginal discharge is a natural way for the vagina to wash. Do not use douches unless your doctor has recommended them. These products have the potential to disrupt organisms' natural balance.
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What is dry skin?
Because of its high water content, normal skin is smooth and elastic. A minimum of 10% water must be present in the top layer of skin for it to feel soft, flexible, and "normal." Sebaceous glands in the skin generate an oily material called sebum to help prevent the outer layer of the skin from losing water. Sebum is a complex combination of fatty acids, sugars, waxes, and other natural compounds that act as a water-repellent barrier. When the skin lacks sebum, it loses moisture and feels dry. The skin will shrivel and crack if environmental factors cause more water evaporation and overwhelm the sebum's ability to prevent water loss.
Xerosis, or dry skin, is a widespread issue in modern society that affects people of all ages, including babies. Most occurrences of dry skin in the United States are caused by one or more of the following factors:
Excessive bathing or showering, excessive scouring of the skin when washing, or harsh soaps that dissolve the protective layer of sebum are all examples of lifestyle factors that promote sebum loss. In certain situations, especially among school athletes who wash multiple times a day, the outcome is dry skin all over the body. In other situations, dry skin exclusively affects the hands, such as in health care professionals, food handlers, house cleaners, homemakers, moms with diapered children, and others who wash their hands regularly.
Extreme environmental circumstances can overcome the skin's natural protective barrier, which causes water to evaporate. This is a major cause of dry skin in those who live in sun-drenched desert conditions, particularly in portions of the Southwest in the united state of America.
Reduced sebum production — Because the number and activity of sebaceous glands in the skin tend to decrease with age, this is frequently a factor in the elderly.
In the northern United States, dry indoor air can also induce dry skin and "winter itch," especially in those who utilize forced-air heating systems. Frequent exposure to wind and sun among outdoor athletes can drain water from the skin, leaving it uncomfortable and dry. Because the chemical composition of pool water pulls moisture from the body, even swimmers might have dry skin.
Dry skin is a common complaint among diabetics and those with skin allergies (atopic dermatitis). It can also be a sign of hypothyroidism, renal failure, or Sjögren's disease in rare cases. Furthermore, dry skin can occur as a side effect of many medications, particularly topical acne treatments.
Symptoms
Itching might be the only sign of dry skin, but most individuals will also notice that their skin is flaky and wrinkled more than usual. During the winter, dry skin symptoms may intensify, especially if you spend a lot of time indoors, where the heated air is dry.
Acne is a very common skin problem. Inflammation of the skin's hair follicles and oil-producing (sebaceous) glands causes it.
Hair follicles are the tiny structures in the scalp that produce hair. Sebum is produced by sebaceous glands which surround the hair follicles in acne-prone areas. The "pilosebaceous unit," which consists of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles, is where acne pimples and cysts form. Sebum hydrates the hair and skin. Each hair, together with sebum, pushes up through the skin's surface.
Acne frequently appears during puberty. Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands in the skin are overstimulated to produce sebum. These sticky cells clog the hair follicles of the skin, trapping the sebum. The bacteria that normally live in hair follicles multiply as a result of the blocked, oil-filled follicle. As a result, there are inflammation, redness, and pimples (pustules). Acne flare-ups in adolescents are most likely caused by a natural increase in androgen hormones during the adolescent years. These androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands, causing them to produce an excess of sebum. Hereditary factors also play a role in the problem.
The following factors can cause acne:
Oily cosmetics
Humidity
Sweating profusely
Drugs such as Lithium Steroids
Poor diet or poor hygiene are not causes of acne. Excessive skin washing can aggravate an acne flare-up.
As we step into a new year, many of us are determined to prioritize our health and make positive changes. One common goal that tops the list is losing weight. However, with countless fad diets and conflicting information available, it's crucial to approach weight loss with a sustainable and science-backed approach. In this article, we will guide you through the most effective strategies to help you shed those extra pounds and achieve a healthier, happier you in 2024.
1. Set Realistic Goals:
Begin your weight loss journey by setting realistic and achievable goals. Avoid setting unrealistic expectations that could lead to disappointment or frustration. Consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can help you set personalized and attainable targets based on your current health, body composition, and lifestyle.
2. Adopt a Balanced and Nutritious Diet:
Focus on making sustainable changes to your eating habits rather than following restrictive diets. Incorporate a balanced mix of macronutrients, including lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Fill your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Prioritize portion control and mindful eating to avoid overeating.
3. Hydration is Key:
Don't underestimate the power of staying hydrated. Drinking an adequate amount of water not only helps curb hunger pangs but also improves digestion, boosts metabolism, and supports overall well-being. Aim to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day and reduce your consumption of sugary beverages.
4. Regular Exercise Routine:
Engage in a regular exercise routine tailored to your fitness level and preferences. Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling, along with strength training exercises to build lean muscle mass. Find activities you enjoy to make exercise a sustainable part of your lifestyle.
5. Prioritize Quality Sleep:
Sleep plays a crucial role in weight management. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support hormonal balance, reduce cravings, and maintain energy levels. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a calming bedtime routine, and create a sleep-friendly environment to optimize your rest.
What is the best choice for colon cancer screening and when should it be done?
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second biggest cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and the incidence rate is increasing, particularly among adults aged 20 to 49. Unfortunately, only about 30% of eligible adults in the United States have been examined for CRC.
Screening tests that look for cancer or precancerous growths called colon polyps can help avoid colon cancer.
When is the best time to begin screening?
For average-risk people, the United States Preventative Services Task Force recommends commencing CRC screening at the age of 45. These recommendations are based on the most recent information on when the risk of colon cancer begins to rise.
Patients at average risk have no personal or family history of colon cancer, nor do they have a genetic disease that raises their risk of getting CRC. As a result, patients should discuss their family history with their primary care physician, including all cancer diagnoses in blood relatives, so that the optimal time to start colon cancer screening may be determined.
Which type of screening should you go with?
The most crucial aspect of colon cancer screening is having a test performed. Colonoscopy or FIT testing are the most popular procedures to screen for colon cancer in most patients. If you can't or don't want to have a colonoscopy or FIT testing, there are other choices to think about. Finally, this is a personal and essential decision that a patient should address with their healthcare professional so that the appropriate test can be performed at the appropriate time.
It is recommended that high-risk people undergo screening before the age of 45. A primary care physician can help identify when and how a patient should be checked for CRC if they are concerned about their risk level. Patients with a history of CRC or polyps, a first-degree relative with CRC or advanced polyps (those that would have progressed to CRC if not removed), a family history of certain genetic syndromes, or a history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) are all high-risk factors.
What screening options are available for CRC?
Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is the gold standard of screening tests, detecting about 95% of CRC cases. It's also the only way for a gastroenterologist to discover and remove potentially malignant colon polyps at the same time. Although colonoscopies are generally low-risk procedures, they can include a minor risk of bleeding and perforation, which increases with age.
Prior to the operation, patients should drink a colonoscopy prep, which washes stool out of the colon so that it may be adequately examined during the procedure. The gastroenterologist's office provides the prescription instructions for the prep.
To ensure that the patient is as comfortable as possible, the procedure is usually performed under anaesthesia. It's vital to note that patients aren't put under general anaesthesia, but they usually feel tired and relaxed throughout the procedure.
A gastroenterologist will put a colonoscopy, a flexible tube with a camera at the end, into the rectum during a colonoscopy. The colon is then thoroughly examined. If no polyps are found and the colon has been adequately prepared (cleanout), a repeat colonoscopy is recommended in 10 years. This period will be shorter if polyps are discovered, or if the patient's risk level or symptoms change.
Regarding the most prevalent malignancies in males, what's new?
Medical research continues to aim for more potent cancer medicines. New approaches that can treat cancer sooner and improve results are still being discovered in labs and research trials. What then has garnered the greatest attention in the fields of colon, lung, and prostate cancer—the three malignancies that affect men most frequently?
Cancer of the prostate
The use of hormone treatments to treat cancer in both advanced and early stages has attracted increasing attention. A few active trials are noteworthy. For example, patients at high risk of cancer relapse are receiving rigorous hormone treatment both before and after prostate surgery as part of the PROTEUS experiment.
In high-risk patients who have already received radiation and hormonal therapy but still have detectable PSA levels, an analogous approach would be to increase the dosage of hormonal medication.
Following prostate surgery, some individuals with high-risk prostate cancer are also receiving hormonal therapy. Using genetic testing of prostate tissue to identify men who have a high risk of cancer recurrence, ERADICATE research is investigating the potential benefits of aggressive hormone therapy for these men following a prostatectomy. (The outcomes of the ERADICATE study and the PROTEUS experiment are anticipated in a few years.)
Treatment for prostate cancer that has already spread has also advanced recently. "In these cases, the common treatment approach is radiation to the prostate and intensive hormonal treatments," the statement reads.
RSV, short for respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that typically only causes cold symptoms in most people. However, for infants and young children with certain health conditions, RSV can pose serious risks. Luckily, a revolutionary immune-boosting therapy has emerged as a potential solution.
What kind of complications can RSV cause?
RSV is the primary cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one year old. Particularly for children with heart or lung diseases, it can lead to life-threatening breathing problems.
What treatment options are available for RSV?
Currently, there are no effective medications for treating RSV. However, a preventive medication called palivizumab (Synagis) can be administered monthly during the RSV season to high-risk infants. It's worth noting that while RSV can occur year-round, many cases are reported between late fall and early spring. Unfortunately, strict criteria set by insurance companies and the need for monthly doses have limited its accessibility.
The FDA approves the first medication for treating hot flashes.
Women who are suffering from the uncomfortable hot flashes associated with menopause may find relief with a new drug. The FDA authorized fezolinetant (Veozah) in May 2023. It's the first medication made expressly to lessen the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and sweats that accompany a woman's declining estrogen levels. Fezolintant is a non hormonal medication that modifies the brain's regulation of body temperature, in contrast to hormone replacement therapy, which is the primary treatment for hot flashes and may increase the risk of blood clots or breast cancer. The medication needs to be taken consistently, and it needs to be taken with regular blood tests to monitor for any potential side effects, such as liver damage. Back discomfort, diarrhea, sleeplessness, and abdominal pain are possible additional side effects. Aside from hormone-based pharmaceuticals, other non hormonal treatments for hot flashes include antidepressants, blood pressure treatments, and medications for nerve pain.
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Increasing opioid-related deaths in Black communities are associated with health disparities.
From 1999 to 2019, the opioid crisis caused half a million deaths. In contrast, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a tremendous increase, with in more people dying of opioid overdoses last year than ever before. However, the nature of the crisis has altered.
Traditionally, the opioid epidemic has been viewed as predominantly affecting white Americans in rural regions. This was partly purposeful, since pharmaceutical corporations picked these places to avoid the glare of law enforcement agents. Black people were far less likely to be provided opioids for pain management, even when medically needed in emergency situations, which contributed to the greater likelihood of opioid addiction among white Americans. However, recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the rapid infiltration of opioids into black communities is accelerating the epidemic's growth.
According to new research, more black Americans are dying from drug overdoses.
The opioid crisis is gradually ensnaring black people, according to a report just released by the CDC. Opioid overdoses increased by 30% in 2020 compared to 2019, resulting in 91,799 deaths. However, the growth was not observed universally. The death rate among African-Americans climbed by 44%, the largest increase of all racial and ethnic groupings, and double that of white Americans.
 In 2020, for the first time in the history of the opioid epidemic, the death rate from opioid overdoses was higher among African-Americans than among white Americans, largely due to the increase in illicit fentanyl. |
During the festive season, the joyous atmosphere often involves raising a glass or two, but many might not be aware of the potential risks when it comes to alcohol and driving. A survey conducted by Vanarama revealed some concerning gaps in knowledge regarding alcohol limits, emphasizing the need for increased awareness during Christmas celebrations.
1. Lack of Awareness: The Survey Findings.
In the study, 28% of UK motorists were unaware that enjoying a glass of Champagne with their Christmas roast could exceed the alcohol limit in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Additionally, 22% were oblivious to the fact that consuming two small glasses of wine would put them over the limit. The survey also highlighted a misconception about the time required for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to stabilize after a night of drinking.
2. The Consequences of Drink-Driving
The penalties for drink-driving are severe, with even being intoxicated in a stationary vehicle carrying significant consequences. Punishments range from three months' imprisonment, fines up to £2,500, and a potential driving ban. Actively driving under the influence escalates the penalties to six months' imprisonment, unlimited fines, and a driving ban of at least one year. Causing death by careless driving while intoxicated could result in a 14-year prison sentence, unlimited fines, and a minimum two-year driving ban.
3. The Impact of Alcohol on Driving
Alcohol affects various aspects crucial for safe driving, including reaction times, co-ordination, vision, and judgement. Even a BAC of less than 0.05% increases the risk of a fatal vehicle crash threefold, according to independent charity Drinkaware.
Hey everyone! I've got some eye-opening insights from Dr. Mijin Brown, also known as Dr. Midge on TikTok. Turns out, a couple of foods we thought were super healthy might not be as wholesome as we believed. Let's dive into the details.
1. Oat Milk: The Not-So-Healthy Coffee Companion
Starting off with oat milk – the go-to for coffee enthusiasts. Dr. Midge is here to bust the myth that it's a health champion. A cup is packing 15g of carbs, and that's not even counting the sugary ones. To add to that, many store-bought brands throw in preservatives and thickeners that don't do our gut health any favors.
2. Porridge (Oatmeal): A Carb-Loaded Controversy
Next on the list is porridge, or as they call it in the US, oatmeal. Dr. Midge spills the beans – a hefty 62 grams of carbs in a single cup, even though it gives you a decent fiber boost with 8 grams. She's straightforward – "Not worth it, guys." But she throws in a shoutout for coarse oatmeal – keeping it real.
Hey, folks! So, here's the deal – turns out a bunch of people in the UK are running low on Vitamin D. You know, that sunshine nutrient that does wonders for your heart and all that jazz.
Now, the signs that you might be a bit Vitamin D-deficient? Well, they're not exactly subtle. Feeling like a total zombie? Check. Losing more hair than you'd like? Yep, that's on the list too. The Mirror spilled the beans on these symptoms, but there's more to it.
Vitamin D isn't just about keeping you awake and your hair intact. It's pulling double duty with blood clotting, giving your immune system a pep talk, and even helping those muscles grow. Now, here's the kicker – experts are waving the flag, saying, take a daily 10 microgram vitamin D supplement!" Why? 'Cause apparently, your average diet isn't throwing enough of it your way, and the British weather isn't exactly the sunshine express.
So, what are these nine signs of a Vitamin D shortage? According to the smart minds at the University of Nebraska University Health Centre:
1. Fatigue
2. Not sleeping well
3. Bone pain or achiness
4. Depression or feeling blue
5. Hair loss
6. Muscle weakness
7. Loss of appetite
8. Catching every bug in town
9. Rocking a paler shade than usual
Céline Dion's sister recently revealed uncertainties surrounding the singer's future music career due to her diagnosis with an autoimmune disease known as stiff person syndrome (SPS). This rare autoimmune neurological disorder induces progressive muscle stiffness and painful spasms in the lower back, legs, and torso, with symptoms fluctuating between worsening and temporary improvement. SPS can lead to chronic pain, falls, and diminished mobility over time.
Understanding Stiff Person Syndrome
Incidence and Demographics:
SPS is an exceedingly rare condition, affecting an estimated one to two individuals per million. It typically manifests in people aged 40–50, although cases involving children have been documented. Originally labeled stiff man syndrome, this autoimmune disorder predominantly affects women, following the common trend seen in many autoimmune conditions.
Causes and Autoimmune Connection:
Due to the disorder's rarity, research into the precise biological mechanisms behind SPS is still in its early stages. Current evidence suggests an autoimmune reaction where the body erroneously attacks healthy tissues. Around 80% of SPS patients have detectable autoantibodies in their blood, targeting nerve cells that produce the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. GABA plays a crucial role in dampening brain activity and regulating motor neurons. The theory posits that reduced GABA availability prompts overactive neurons to signal continuous muscle contractions or spasms.
Moreover, many SPS patients also contend with other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, or pernicious anemia.
Diagnosis Challenges
Misdiagnosis and Overlapping Symptoms:
Due to its rarity, SPS is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease, and its symptoms overlap with those of conditions like multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, anxiety, and phobias. Diagnosis involves blood tests to identify autoantibodies, although some patients may not test positive. Additionally, MRI and CT scans are employed to rule out conditions that might be confused with SPS.
Osteoporosis, a widespread disorder affecting millions globally, renders bones brittle and prone to fractures even from minor traumas. Various factors, including age and diet, play pivotal roles in the development of this condition.
1. Dietary Impact on Osteoporosis:
- Studies reveal that certain foods can leach calcium, a critical element for bone health.
- Age is a significant factor, with older individuals experiencing more bone mass loss.
2. Alcohol and Bone Health:
- Alcohol consumption negatively affects bone health.
- Increased intake can hinder the absorption of essential nutrients crucial for bone health.
- Orthopedist Liz Matskin recommends limiting daily alcohol intake to mitigate its impact.
3. Caffeine and Bone Health:
- Caffeine, present in coffee and other beverages, worsens bone health.
- It increases calcium loss and decreases absorption.
- Consider decaffeinated alternatives to protect bone density.
The first time I noticed that I was coughing and had a blocked nose was after I visited Glasgow Winter Market. I do not like cold and crowded places, but I did not want to let down an invitation, so I went, and now I am sick with the flu and coughs that worsen when I lay down to sleep.
Many people in the UK are suffering from a terrible illness during this holiday season. After their work Christmas parties, some people have said they felt completely exhausted.
Along with other bugs, a diverse range of cold and flu viruses, as well as COVID variants, are currently in circulation. While it is not unusual for a multitude of viruses to be prevalent during this season, a significant proportion of individuals have reported experiencing severe illness.
There are five ways to determine whether or not you're ageing well, according to health experts, and it's never too young to evaluate the process. Ageing is influenced by both genetic and lifestyle factors, with diet and exercise having a major impact.
It takes a lifetime to lead a healthy lifestyle, but it is never too late to prioritise your wellbeing. The life expectancy in the UK is among the lowest in Europe, and it has dropped even further in the last few years, to a two-decade low of slightly under 80 years old.
Some have linked this to living conditions, jobs, poor diets, inactivity, and poverty. The statistics are even worse in the US, where the average life expectancy is only 77 years old. Men are predicted to live for a mere 74 years.
In order to help people evaluate how well they are ageing, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has created a checklist. This can help you make healthy lifestyle choices that will increase your chances of living a long and healthy life.
1. Social relationships:
There is a growing epidemic of loneliness, and studies have linked it to an increased risk of dementia and heart disease. Over one-third of adults over the age of 45 and about 25% of adults over the age of 65 report feeling lonely, according to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
The US Surgeon General issued a warning in May, citing social isolation as a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, and dementia and characterising loneliness as a public health emergency.
Research shows that people who have strong support systems in place typically live longer, happier lives. Strong social ties can increase survival chances by 50 percent, according to a comprehensive analysis of 148 studies.
2. Exercise:
You should make an effort to exercise each and every day. Elevate your heart rate; you don't have to be panting for air or drenched in perspiration. Walking, gardening, and other low-impact activities might be examples of this.
According to the NHS, adults should strive to do:
Spend at least two days a week engaging in strengthening exercises that target all of the major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). Perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise. Distribute your exercise over four to five days a week, or every day. Cut down on the amount of time you spend sitting or lying down.
Choose an enjoyable exercise routine; if you force yourself to exercise in an unpleasant way, you're unlikely to stick with it.
A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your chance of dying from any cause.
Did you know that according to the CDC, there are over three million Americans who are dealing with chronic fatigue syndrome? It's quite a significant number, isn't it? Let me share a story about what it's like to live with it.
When you experience bone-deep exhaustion that doesn't get better even with rest and lasts for a period of six months or longer, it could be a sign of a condition you should pay attention to. Sometimes people experience an occurrence called "brain fog." It's when you feel like your thinking is a bit cloudy. These symptoms you're experiencing are commonly associated with a condition called myalgic encephalitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). If you're someone who experiences it, you might notice that your symptoms tend to worsen after doing simple everyday tasks, working, or engaging in any kind of physical activity.
According to a recent report from the CDC, it is estimated that around 3.3 million Americans, including individuals dealing with long-term COVID, may be experiencing a condition that can be quite challenging to diagnose. Being alone in a world where everyone seems to be doing well can make you feel isolated. When it comes to long-term illnesses, it's important to understand that they may not be diagnosed right away, and their progression may not follow a clear and linear path.
Let's chat about napping – something many of us secretly enjoy but might hesitate to embrace fully. First off, if you find yourself reaching for a nap during the day, it's good to ponder why. Could it be because you're feeling sleepy while the sun is shining? If that's the case, consider a few things:
- Are there any medications you're taking that might be causing drowsiness? A quick chat with your pharmacist or your next doctor's visit might clear that up.
- How's your nighttime sleep? If you're rocking a good night's rest and waking up feeling refreshed, awesome! But if you're experiencing morning grogginess or headaches, there could be something more, like sleep apnea, messing with your sleep.
Another thing to think about is your mood – could you be dealing with the blues? Ask yourself if activities that once brought joy now feel meh, and if you're generally feeling down.
Now, if these concerns are ringing true for you, it's a good idea to reach out to your doctor. But if your naps are more of the voluntary, delightful variety – the kind that actually perks up your day without sabotaging your nighttime sleep – then go ahead and indulge in those refreshing siestas.
For many, the sweet spot for a nap is in the early afternoon, aligning with the natural dip in our body's circadian rhythm. As for the duration, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, but some experts suggest keeping it around 30 minutes. Definitely don't push it past 60 minutes, as longer naps have been linked to potential health issues like cardiovascular disease.
Now, when it comes to scheduling your nap, it's wise to plan it rather than waiting until you're practically dozing off. Find a comfy spot, whether it's a cozy couch or a designated nap zone, keeping it dark, cool, and free from distractions. And don't forget to give yourself about 10 minutes to fully wake up before diving back into demanding tasks.
Even though there's still a bit of side-eye about napping at work – blame it on outdated productivity stereotypes – science backs up the benefits. Studies, including ones by NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration, show that naps can boost cognitive performance, especially for tricky tasks, and even spark some creativity.
So, there you have it – feel free to embrace the power of the nap! Whether you're at home or sneaking one in at work, a well-timed nap can genuinely enhance your day.
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During this holiday season, when parents, friends, and family members are looking to purchase toys for the children on their lists or donate them to those who are less fortunate, I have a few suggestions for what you should avoid buying and what you should consider instead. Of course, not all gifts have to be bought. Daily opportunities for play bring joy and help children and teens sharpen their skills. Responsive games are great for infants and toddlers, as they help strengthen the bond between them and their carers while also promoting healthy development.
Here are 10 helpful tips to consider when selecting safe toys and using them in a safe manner. Make sure to select toys that are suitable for your child's age.
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Make sure to read the safety labels! Please be extra cautious with anything that has small parts or attached small parts if you have a child who is under 3 years old. Balloons are not suitable for this age group, either.
Be cautious of magnets in toys. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is cautioning people about the potential risks associated with toys that have small, ultra-powerful magnets. These include items like tiny magnetic balls and magnetic building sets. It's really important to make sure that children don't put this toy in their mouth. Furthermore, younger siblings, as well as older children and teenagers, might also face potential risks. These small magnets are much stronger than regular magnets. If someone accidentally swallows two or more of these objects, they can end up getting stuck in the intestinal walls, which can cause blockages and tears.
It's not always a great idea to go for "vintage" toys. Although many vintage and used toys are probably safe to use, it's important to note that they may no longer have their safety labels. It's possible that you don't know if they have been recalled or if they are broken in a way that could make them less safe. Please exercise extra caution when dealing with items manufactured prior to 2008, as that was the year when toy safety laws were implemented.
Moving toys. Make sure your child knows how to use toys like scooters, skateboards, and bikes safely and that they actually do use them safely. Make sure to also include the appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, to go along with these gifts.
Toys that make noise. Yes, it's true that loud noises have the potential to cause damage to our hearing. It's important to consider the amount of noise we encounter throughout our lives, especially with the widespread use of earbud earphones. Starting early with additional noise is something you definitely want to avoid. You always have the option to mute the sound, but it might be a wiser choice to simply refrain from purchasing the toy.
Slime. It seems that certain brands may contain elevated levels of toxic boron. You can try making your own slime using easy recipes that don't require borax. There are plenty of options available online. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can simply choose to avoid using slime altogether. Fidget spinners and other toys that are specifically made for adults. Be cautious if it states "designed for adults." This implies that the manufacturer is not required to comply with the toy safety standards set by the United States for children.
"Hatching" playthings. When the eggs hatch, they produce tiny fragments that can potentially pose a choking risk.
Smart gadgets and toys. There is a possibility that they might gather information that you would prefer not to disclose, and there is also a risk of potential hacking incidents. Mozilla offers a fantastic resource that can assist you in determining which devices are more secure compared to others. Don't forget to consider privacy when giving these items as gifts to children.
Makeup. Certain brands may contain harmful chemicals. In my opinion, I believe that it's not really necessary for young children to wear makeup.
What are some of your favourite back-to-basics toys to choose from? The best toys for kids are those that are straightforward and promote pretend play, creativity, fine motor skills, language development, and movement. Imagine things like dolls, puppets, costumes, train sets, blocks and other building sets, balls, jump ropes, bikes, Paw Patrol Toys, books, and, of course, all sorts of art supplies. The toys that provide the most long-lasting fun are the ones that require imagination and interaction, encourage kids to be active, and support their development.
Paw Patrol Advent Calendar with 24 Surprise Toys
I have three specific types of toys that I would like to recommend: I'm looking for toys that don't have screens. A lot of kids spend way too much time in front of screens.
Let's consider skipping the electronics this year. games that promote physical activity. These days, it seems like we're all leading such sedentary lives.
Getting outside and exercising is really wonderful, so gifts like bikes and balls can be absolutely fantastic. If it's really cold outside or you don't have much outdoor space that's easy to get to, try finding activities that you can do indoors instead. I genuinely take pleasure in playing with balls that feature handles and permit sitting and bouncing. They are so much fun! Balance boards, riding toys, stepping stones, and even indoor tightropes are also great options for having a good time. You can use a yoga mat for various types of exercise. If you have the opportunity, it's a great idea to create a designated exercise area in addition to your home office setup. toy sets that can be used for group play. You should try looking for games that the whole family can enjoy together. There are plenty of options available, so you're bound to find something that everyone will love. You could also consider getting a train set or a building kit that both of you can enjoy doing together. Now, more than ever, we realise how much we rely on each other. It's important to find joy and have fun, especially during the holiday season. Combining both of these things is truly a wonderful gift.
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