Have you experienced feeling clueless despite knowing your goals and how you want to achieve them? Staying optimistic and grateful keep you going then all of a sudden you just wish that time freezes and you want to stay where you are at the moment, free from worries, responsibilities, and commitments. All you want to do is to stare at the ceiling while lying on your bed doing nothing. Shutting down the world around you makes you feel at ease. 

Thinking about these things makes you feel guilty all of a sudden because you are aware that entertaining the idea makes you incapable of fulfilling your duties. You realize that you need to purge your strength and will to go back to reality because naturally, it has to be that way. 

My dear friends, you are not alone. Many people all over the world from all walks of life feel this way from time to time. The question is, do you like to continue lurking in misery and boredom while whining about your situation? If you were hard on yourself before, now it’s the time to be kinder to yourself and recover again from burnout. It has to be this way, hasn’t it? Here are five ways for you to recover from burnout. 

Acknowledge the feeling. 

Accepting the fact that you need to slow down a bit makes it easier for you to do something about feeling unmotivated and bored. 

Reflect. 

Recalling the things you did before prior to burnout is a process of reflecting if something has been wrong going on along the way. Were you eating unhealthy? Were you sleeping late or not at all? Did you find time to unwind in between work, chores, or errands? Did I listen to my body? If you missed one or all in doing this on a daily basis, then the reason of the urge of spacing out would be evident. 

Eating healthy, having enough rest and sleep, injecting ample time to relax, and doing simple pleasures to balance the mind and body help in building a holistic well-being. 

Break the routines. 

Sticking to the plan and being goal driven are good but sometimes you need to break them. Instead of following the same schedule and routines tediously, you need to spend time alone going somewhere else and still doing what needs to be done at the moment. What does it mean? Like for instance, if you are a full time homemaker, instead of going home immediately to do your daily chores after dropping your kids to school, you may take a short walk on the park nearby while listening to the chirping of birds and marveling at the beauty of nature. You may also pay the bills in a different location instead of doing it in the same location. Savor each new experience. 

Count your blessings. 

Nothing beats the feeling of being grateful all the time. Seeing the beauty in everything, celebrating your purpose in life, and counting all your blessings no matter how big or small they seem to be can take your blues away. 

Find inspiration. 

It feels wonderful to be inspired. Reading inspirational quotes, bibilical verses, success stories of admirable people, or looking at amzing photos and works of art can fuel you to go back onto your old self. 

Doing these five steps can lead you back to where you are supposed to be. Literally, it’s difficult to keep moving forward when you are burned out but it’s possible because you choose to do it. 

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Chia seeds are the latest addition to today’s superfood craze. The seeds are derived from the Salvia hispanica, a type of mint that’s believed to have originated from Central America. These tiny powerhouses have plenty of benefits, which have contributed to its popularity. Case in point, PrettyMe's list of the many benefits of chia seeds notes how the superfood contains important minerals like calcium and zinc, as well as other healthy compounds such as caffeic acid (for inflammation) and chlorogenic acid (to lower blood pressure). They’re also full of antioxidants, which can slow down skin aging.

Courtesy: Pixabay

The best thing about chia seeds, however, is how you don’t need a huge amount to reap the health perks. This is why, instead of eating them by themselves, people have opted to mix the seed into food they already eat, making them extremely easy to add to your diet. Here are five ways to do that:

Add them to your water or juice

The easiest way to add chia seeds into your diet is to make it part of your drinking water, or favorite juices. Just dunk some pieces into your beverage for around 20 to 30 minutes, and the seeds will soften enough to easily consume. You won't even have to worry about the chia seeds affecting the taste of your drink, as they have a very mild, subtle taste that can actually complement whatever you're drinking — even water!

Sprinkle them on your smoothie bowls

Some smoothies aren't just healthy, but they're also filling enough to sustain you for hours — just like a snack. Luckily, chia seeds are rich in fiber — the only thing other than sugar and starch that fills you up, which means they can certainly make your smoothie work overtime on the health benefits. Just make sure to soak them in water or your ready-made smoothie concoction overnight, so they’re nice and gelatinous the following day.

Make chia pudding 

Chia pudding is one of the most popular, and delicious, ways to consume chia seeds. The best part is that you can make one easily. To get you started, here is a yummy, All Recipe-approved mango chia pudding recipe. Stir in a bowl almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla extract, and chia seeds. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 8 hours, or even overnight. Then, make mango puree by combining in a blender maple syrup and slices of mango. Blend them until smooth. Layer the chia pudding and mango puree in a container and leave it to sit for around 15 minutes. Afterward, enjoy this tasty, healthy treat!

Turn them into cereal

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Like in the case of smoothies, chia seeds make good toppings on your morning bowl of cereal. They lack the artificial sweetness from most store-bought cereals, but they do provide an added crunch along with a laundry list of benefits. If you want to get even more creative with your meal, you can throw in a small serving of maple syrup, honey, or vanilla extract on top.

Toss them into your salad

Like we said, chia seeds are crunchy when they’re not soaked, making them perfect for adding some texture into your salad, too. Alternatively, you can also mix them into your salad dressing. My Quiet Kitchen’s salad recipe details how chia is good for dressing, due to its hydrophilic properties. No need to worry about any solid chunks when its tossed in with liquid. You can even sprinkle some chia seeds to the Jolly Cow Condensada-infused fusilli salad we recommended previously.

Overall, chia seeds are a very versatile and tasty ingredient. How do you like to enjoy your chia? Let us know in the comments below!

If you are 60 and above, read this. The coronavirus can affect anyone but it’s older adults, ages 60 and up, who are more at risk of getting seriously sick from it. Is there a cure for it? None at the moment, but over 80,000 worldwide have already survived it. 

Internist-cardiologist Willie Ong says that a total of 26.4% of the total cases in the Philippines comprise patients belonging to the said population. That’s why mature adults are particularly encouraged to keep calm and follow recommendations from the experts.

So Sure Bladder Leakage Pads, a product that’s designed to manage a mature adult’s leaky bladder, presents these health tips to help you remain level-headed in this season of uncertainty:

1. Practice social distancing. Do everything you can to reduce exposure to the virus. Avoid crowds, mass transit systems, and other non-essential social gatherings. Of course, this does not mean social isolation. You can still opt for family game nights, reading a book, cooking a meal, indoor exercises, and group video calls. Since families have been among the most significant hotspots of transmission, avoid sharing utensils or any means that may acquire another’s saliva. Younger and healthier family members should be encouraged to practice distancing from mature household members as they may be asymptomatic carriers. Separate towels, bags, ballpens and anything that may carry unwelcome viruses.

2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. You know where to find them. Avoid hospitals except in emergency cases. If possible, call ahead before visiting your doctor. According to St. Luke’s Medical Center’s oncologist Denky Dela Rosa, MD, senior citizens who have the following conditions are at higher risk: asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, tuberculosis, or any lung disease, diabetes, heart and kidney problems especially those undergoing dialysis, cirrhosis, hepatitis, or any liver problems, an autoimmune system like lupus. Those who are taking Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Decilone, or Medrol, and those diagnosed with any cancer at any stage are also most vulnerable and are strictly advised to self-quarantine.

3. Minimize news consumption. It’s good to stay informed but don’t get too obsessed with the news. Research shows that chronic TV watchers and news followers have increased fear because everything they see starts to feel like occurring outside their very door. Filter information. Keep yourselves away not only from the virus but also from negativity and fake news. Maximize the use of technology by connecting with family and friends to minimize anxiety. Find time to clear your mind through prayers and meditation. Do some light exercises and sunlight exposure. Read positive books and articles. Or go for activities that stimulate your cerebellum, the part of the brain that coordinates balance, posture, and movement. This part of the brain works closely with the cerebrum, the thinking center of the brain. When these two work properly, learning and movements are seamless and easier. You can go writing, drawing, catching a ball, or sewing.

4. Be proactive and keep your immune system strong. Get ample sleep, exercise, and eat well. Plan your meals to include immune system boosters such as citrus fruits, garlic, broccoli, spinach, turmeric, green tea, papaya, poultry, and shellfish and zinc sources like beef, oyster, asparagus, and malunggay. Go for a quick sunlight exposure just at your doorsteps between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for your daily dose of Vitamin D. Load up on water. And of course, keep in mind your dietary limitations as advised by your doctor. 

5. Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Should there be a need to go out, quickly take a shower as the virus can thrive for a few hours on the clothes. Wear a face mask around people and pets. Refrain from handshaking and touching your face. Cough or sneeze into a disposable tissue and discard it immediately. Use a tissue or your elbow to touch switches and elevator buttons. Sanitize phones, doorknobs, and other items that you usually touch. Members of the household should also practice the same. 

6. Avoid public toilets. COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets. In some public toilets, we can smell the stink even before entering. In other toilets, the floors are wet, the toilet bowls are soiled, and the sinks are dirty. Your risk of exposure here is elevated. 

However, for some who experience incontinence, you may have to go to the toilet all the time. Others have overactive bladders and cannot make it to the toilet because of weak bladder control. Needs vary from one individual to another. Good thing, So Sure made its pads available to fit comfortably for urine leaks. Whether it’s a light or moderate incontinence condition, So Sure Bladder Leakage Pad is here to provide comfort and protection. So Sure 340mm Pads are designed for light flow while So Sure 450mm Pads are made to cater to moderate incontinence. 

Talk show host Cristy Fermin makes sure her sleep is undisturbed to keep her mood up for her daily grind. She trusts So Sure 450mm pads because they absorb heavy amounts of urine and guide it through the inner layers of the pad while keeping her fresh. “What I like most about it is its ability to eliminate urine’s strong scent. I love waking up every day free from odor and irritation”, she says.

Entertainment journalist Lolit Solis' bladder tends to overreact and sometimes, sneezing, laughing, or coughing result in light drips. She uses So Sure 340mm pads made of high quality, super absorbent cotton that keeps her sensitive area free from moisture and bacteria. According to her, “Incontinence can no longer affect my daily living and busy work schedule because I have discovered So Sure that provides me my much-needed protection against discomfort and embarrassment”.

With So Sure Pads, you can be sure incontinence does not hinder you from doing the things you love while experiencing antibacterial, antifungal, and odor control protection. 

Unisex and available in two sizes, 340 mm is for light drips or spurts while the 450 mm for burst or surges. Buy now at all Watsons, Mercury Drug, Waltermart, selected Robinson Department Store health & beauty section nationwide for only P204 (340 mm) and P294 (450 mm). Each pack contains two pieces or 24 pieces per box. To know more, visit www.sosurepads.ph and like/follow at @sosurepadsph on Facebook and Instagram. For hassle-free shopping with delivery straight to your doorstep, shop now at www.lazada.com.ph. For inquiries, email: info@sosurepads.ph or call (02) 4701294.

A woman’s monthly period is a wonderful thing--it’s a sign of fertility, youth, and health after all. But when it comes to dysmenorrhea, every woman post-puberty and premenopausal will agree that it’s something not taken lightly. In fact, the pain and discomfort could be as bad as having a severe “heart attack”, according to a professor of reproductive health at University College London. This means, no one has the right to call someone who seriously experiences this as being “dramatic”.

According to Faith Suluen, MD “The pain intensity tends to increase when estrogen levels are low and progesterone levels are high. When it gets too bad, it can be disabling. Every woman experiences it differently. Some suffer from extreme pain, while others go through it easily.”

During the period, the uterus squeezes so that blood in the uterine wall detaches and eventually flows out of the vagina. If it contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off the oxygen supply in the uterus which causes pain.

No need to pop single ibuprofen as Jeunesse Anion shares these all-natural and pain-relieving tips that anyone can begin this Women’s Month. 

Use a hot pack. This helps relax your uterine muscles and boost blood circulation. Some studies show that these packs are as effective as ibuprofen. Invest in a high-quality hot pack and make it a part of your first aid essential. However, a water bottle or hand towels and a ziplock can be an alternative.

Take a hot bath. If you’re not a fan of hot packs, taking a hot bath can be best for you. Heat is pretty therapeutic as it supports blood circulation especially in the pelvic area and eases cramps. It’s best partnered with a good night's sleep. 

Apply essential oils. Try using these easy to find essential oils for period pains: lavender to relax your muscles, rose to ease cramps, nausea, and fatigue, ylang-ylang to help you cope with stress and depression, and peppermint to relieve you from headaches and inflammation. Among these, lavender is best for heavy flows. 

Avoid caffeine. For some, life begins after coffee. But it’s not always the case, especially when you’re on your period. Caffeine can make dysmenorrhea significantly worse. Its diuretic nature increases urine production and triggers dehydration that is home to dysmenorrhea. Drink lots of water or go for herbal teas and decaffeinated drinks, instead. Load up on water-rich fruits and vegetables as well like watermelon, orange, cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Use anion sanitary pads. Naturally found in nature such as beach, forest, and mountain, anion possesses remarkable therapeutic benefits. Once they reach our bloodstream, they produce biochemical reactions that cause a multitude of healing benefits. Anions can lower our stress levels, strengthen our immune system, reinforce better sleep, and increase mental energy. When incorporated in sanitary pads, they can eliminate unwanted odors, balance hormones, and lessen pain.

The University of the Philippines Inorganic Nanomaterials Institute of Chemistry reports that each anion strip in Jeunesse Anion Sanitary Napkins, once it touches moisture, releases 6,180 anions. More than enough to be able to reach our bloodstream and eliminate 99.9 percent of bacteria and fungi that causes unwanted odor. More importantly, once the anion was released in the strip, it will bind positively charged ions such as potassium, calcium, and sodium, which restricts their movement through the ion channel. The interaction between two oppositely charged ions is very strong that it will not allow the movement of these positively charged ions. And if ions can’t move, it stops sending pain signals to the body that causes dysmenorrhea!

Jeunesse is like no other. If you’re tired of getting paralyzed every time dysmenorrhea hits you, now is the best time to give Jeunesse Anion a try. It is available in five different variants – ultra‐day pad, day pad non-wing, ultra-night pad, all-night, and panty liner that all guarantee extra care and protection. For a hassle-free period, place your orders now on Lazada in this link where Jeunesse Anion is a bestseller and rated 5/5 by many users: http://bit.ly/2kr0XWt.

Wellgold International Inc. distributes Jeunesse Anion Sanitary Napkin and Liners. Jeunesse is available at Watsons, selected Mercury Drug and South Star Drug outlets, SM department store’s health and beauty section, Robinson’s Supermarket and selected department stores, Shopwise, Rustan’s Supermarket, Waltermart, Landmark Department Store, PCX stores, selected Metro Gaisano outlets, plus other selected stores in Visayas and Mindanao.

For more health tips, visit www.jeunesseanion.com and follow Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram: Jeunesse Anion. For inquiries, email: wellgoldinternational@gmail.com or call (02) 470129.

It is very important to choose the right physician before there is an emergency, sickness, or injury in any member of the family. Whether you are looking for the best medical practitioner that can heal the entire family or the one who specializes per member of the family, there are so much to consider: the country’s medical societies, physician’s license, referral service, hospital affiliations, even feedback of friends and relatives. Furthermore, it’s more convenient and less stressful if the physician of your choice is affiliated with your current health insurance policy and hospital preference. 

The following questions may help you decide on choosing the right physician: 

- Can the physician treat each family member correctly? 

- Does the physician possess a good clinical eye? 

- Does the physician take the time to know his or her patients well? 

- Is the physician willing to form a partnership with you and take time to discuss treatments and options? 

- Can the physician be called anytime in case of an emergency? 

- Does the physician have staff privileges at a nearby accredited hospital? 

- Does the physician charge professional fees reasonably? 

- Does the physician show compassion not just to the patient but his or her family members as well? 

- Does the physician encourage preventive medicine like routine check-ups, immunizations, and follow-up tests reasonably? 

- Does the physician have clinic hours that are convenient for the family’s schedule? 

- Does the physician make arrangements for a substitute when he or she is not available? 

- Is the physician certified by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and Philippine Medical Association? 

If the answers to these questions are clear and favorable to you, you have already found the right physician that works best for you and your family.

Photo Credit: Pixabay 

Part of parenting is experiencing one of the most dreaded feelings of having an ill child. For new parents, experience is still what makes them know their child well. Their gut feeling always works and it saves their child for getting more serious problems whenever signs and symptoms of ailments start to appear. For those who are starting a family and just new in taking care of children, it is a must to take note of these signs that a child is ill. It is recommended that you seek the help of your family physician right away when you see these: 

- Fever higher than 101-degree Fahrenheit or 38.33-degree Celsius for more than 24 hours that is accompanied by extreme irritability, difficulty in breathing, or difficulty in rousing the child from sleep 

- A persistent cough that is accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath 

- Earache or ear irritability for more than an hour especially when it is accompanied by fever 

- Stomachache that persists for more than two hours accompanied by bloody stools and vomiting 

- For babies, it is unusual if they wet a larger or smaller number of diapers in a day. 

- Diarrhea that is unusual with presence of blood or accompanied by vomiting, fever, or absence of urination that lasts for a day 

- Loose bowel movement more that five times in an hour or two 

- Vomiting accompanied by fever or blood that lasts for 12 hours

- Lethargic or withdrawn behavior. 

- Bulging or depression of a soft spot on an infant’s head.

- Warm or moist skin 

- Pale or flushed appearance 

- Blisters following a burn 

- Lack of appetite accompanied by fever for a day 

References:

Cambell, D. et al. (2009). Babies: How can You tell if Your Baby is Ill?. Retrieved from      

          http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/En/HealthAZ/DevelopmentalStages/Babies/Pages/Babies-How-

          http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/parenting/baby-and-toddler/advice/a25994/how-to-know-how-sick-

Table salt, every household’s staple condiment, has sodium and chloride that are essential to one’s diet. But high salt intake is detrimental to one’s health because it triggers heart and kidney diseases. In line with this, most people take more than the required amount of sodium. According to the American Heart Association, daily sodium intake should be 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day and an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 milligrams per day for kids and adults. It sounds like a lot, isn’t it? But some food items that you consume have too much sodium content and if you are not conscious about it, you are most probably consuming more. 

Here are some tips on how to minimize your salt and sodium intake: 

- Don’t use salt in eating or cooking unless it’s necessary but use it sparingly. For you to be guided accordingly, here are the approximate amounts of sodium in a given amount of table salt: 

1/4 teaspoon salt = 575 milligrams sodium 

1/2 teaspoon salt = 1,150 milligrams sodium 

3/4 teaspoon salt = 1,725 milligrams sodium 

 1 teaspoon salt = 2,300 milligrams sodium 

Source: https://sodiumbreakup.heart.org 

- Limit the intake of salted snacks such as chips, crackers, or salted nuts. 

- The top sources of sodium in our diets are added through manufacturing and processing. Canned goods have more sodium content than fresh and frozen ones. The latter taste better than the former and you can regulate the amount of salt that you can put on them. 

- Always read the label. Opt for packed foods that have low or reduced sodium. Food packages may have these sodium-related terms. Sodium-free means that the food item has less than five milligrams of sodium per serving and contains no sodium chloride, very low sodium has 35 milligrams or less preserving, low sodium has 140 milligrams per serving, reduced or less sodium has at least 25 percent less sodium per serving than the usual sodium level; and light in sodium means that the sodium is reduced by at least 50 percent per serving. 

- Always buy fresh and frozen meat, fish, and poultry that is not injected with a sodium solution, marinated in salty sauces, or pre-cooked with salt. 

- Cereals that need to be cooked have lower amounts of sodium than the ready-to-eat ones. 

- Avoid eating processed foods like hotdogs, luncheon meat, hams, sausages, Tocino, Longganisa, and other cured meats. 

- Limit intake of brine-packed foods like pickles are high in salt. Always drain them before cooking or eating to cut the sodium.

- Use condiments like soy sauce, dips, salad dressings, and ketchup that has low or reduced-sodium. 

- Boil pasta, vegetables, meat without salt. You’ll add more ingredients that add flavor so it’s okay to miss the salt. 

- Cooking by roasting, searing, braising, grilling, sauteing can bring the natural flavors of food that reduces the need for salt. 

- Potassium helps counter the effects of sodium and may help lower your blood pressure. Incorporate foods with potassium, like sweet potatoes, potatoes, greens, tomatoes, and lower-sodium tomato sauce, white beans, kidney beans, nonfat yogurt, oranges, bananas, and cantaloupe. 

References: 

HOW TO REDUCE SODIUM. https://sodiumbreakup.heart.org/how_to_reduce_sodium?utm_source=sri&utm_medium=heartorg&utm_term=website&utm_content=sodiumandsalt&utm_campaign=sodiumbreakup 

HOW MUCH SODIUM SHOULD I EAT PER DAY?. https://sodiumbreakup.heart.org/how_much_sodium_should_i_eat?utm_source=sri&utm_medium=heartorg&utm_term=website&utm_content=sodiumandsalt&utm_campaign=sodiumbreakup 

SODIUM AND YOUR HEALTH. https://sodiumbreakup.heart.org/sodium_and_your_health

Sodium and kids. https://sodiumbreakup.heart.org/sodium_and_kids


Photo Credit: Pixabay

Herbs are not only great additions to recipes and dishes, but they also hold major health benefits. In fact, some herbs are so good for you that many dietary supplements and medications consist largely of these natural ingredients. The healing power of these herbs is so great, that sites such as Mommy Authority write about them as topics of discussion. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the top herbs and their health benefits.

Cinnamon 

This spice is made from the bark of several types of trees that belong to the Cinnamomum species. Mainly used in recipes and products as an aromatic condiment, this herb lends itself to sweet and savory. On top of being a delicious condiment for pancakes and pastries, cinnamon also has a wide variety of health benefits. 

Cinnamon contains a powerful antioxidant called polyphenol that helps the body fight free radicals. This spice also has anti-inflammatory properties, can protect and decrease the risk of heart disease, improves your sensitivity to hormone insulin and lowers blood sugar levels, which makes it a great anti-diabetic herb. 

Turmeric 

Mostly used in eastern cuisine, this bright yellow or orange powder is derived from the flowering plant Zingiberaceae and forms part of the ginger family. Normally used to give curry its distinctive color and add earthiness to a dish, this herb has long been used for its healing characteristics. 

Containing curcuminoids, a powerful medicinal element, turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This compound found in turmeric has also been associated with improved cognitive function and decreasing the risk of brain diseases. As such, many studies have explored the preventative effects of turmeric could have on Alzheimer's Disease.

Holy Basil 

Also known as Ocimum tenuiflorum, Holy Basil is an aromatic plant that is mostly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent and in the Southeast Asian tropics. Grown for its use in many religious and traditional medicinal applications and for the essential oil that can be made from its leaves, Holy Basil is also used in Ayurvedic medicine as a herbal tea. 

This herb is a great immune booster and can help the body fight against infection. It has a long list of known health benefits including its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and pain killing capabilities. 

Cayenne

This pepper is a moderately hot chili that is used to add heat and flavor to dishes. The powder which is most commonly used across the world is made from a skinny red pepper that is dried and ground. While it is most frequently used in cuisine - cayenne is also used as a herbal and health supplement. 

The capsaicin in cayenne pepper can greatly improve digestive health and speed up a person’s metabolism. This herb also has the ability to curb hunger, reduce pain and improve blood pressure levels. 

Ginger

Ginger is the root of a flowering plant that is used in many recipes as well as herbal remedies across the globe in many cultures. This herb is jammed packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that make it one of the healthiest herbs around. 

Ginger contains a compound called Gingerol which contributes to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This herb has also been used to treat nausea and the various types of reasons you would become sick, like morning sickness. 

Garlic 

This herb not only keeps vampires at bay but boasts a range of health benefits. A great taste addition to most savory dishes, garlic is part of the onion genus, Allium and has been consumed by humans for many thousands of years. 

Garlic is rich in minerals that help to boost the immune system. This is why garlic has been said to help combat the common cold and flu. This herb also helps curb blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as plays a positive role in the development and health of the brain. 

If you are trying to improve your health, why not investigate the world of benefits that natural herbs can offer. A pill or medication may be the quickest solution, but is it the healthiest? By increasing your intake of one or more of the herbs on the list, you could reap the rewards yourself. 

Whether or not you've dealt with a urinary tract infection, you've likely heard all of the old wives' tales of how to prevent one. From guzzling cranberry juice to becoming celibate, it seems like everyone has a way to keep infections at bay. You may be surprised to find out, though, that many of those remedies are actually myths. 

1. Your Underwear Doesn't Matter

If you've completely converted to granny panties as a way to prevent UTIs, then you'll be glad to know that studies show it doesn't really matter what underwear you wear. You can bring back the cute undies, even if you want to fight off bacteria. 

2. Caffeine Is Fine

Don't pour out your daily mug of joe just yet. While a caffeinated beverage is definitely not a UTI prevention drink, one also won't cause you to end up with an infection, contrary to popular belief. 

3. Wipe Whatever Direction You Prefer

If you've always felt a little guilty about your personal hygiene, rest assured: the direction of your wiping makes no difference in your chances of getting a UTI. While this may be a concern if you never shower, chances are you keep yourself sufficiently clean. 

4. Jump in the Hot Tub

There are few things as relaxing as a soak in a hot tub, and now you can enjoy this pleasure without fear of an infection. If you're really worried about bacteria, you can certainly ensure that the tub is clean before you get in.

5. Antibiotics Aren't the Answer

The increase of resistance to antibiotics probably concerns you, and rightfully so. You don’t have to take antibiotics as a preventative tool. Instead, natural products that contain ingredients such as vitamin C and B6 are your best bet. 

Instead of avoiding the things that give you joy in life, why not try a product that will prevent UTIs and allow you to do what you truly love. Contact us for more information. 

Science has always come up with solutions whenever humanity stumbles upon a new problem to deal with.

What is Biotin?

Biotin is yet another name of a member of the Vitamin family, Vitamin B-7 to be precise. However, the interesting thing is that it plays a crucial role in various activities within the body, has a major say in conditions like pregnancy and is also required for healthy breastfeeding.

What makes Biotin a big deal?

It is quite important to understand that in order to get itself established in the health industry, any product has to provide its claimed solutions to its users. If it's all smoke and mirrors, it can never manage to be something people can trust.

Let's see if Biotin manages to be a vitamin that can truly transform one's health and life.

Here is the list of 5 benefits that are direct effects of consuming Biotin in any of its forms, may it be natural or supplement. Products like biotin supplements are proven to be strong defenders of this situation by providing observable health benefits in a number of ways.

How is Biotin related to health?

Biotin deficiency is related to hair loss.

Let's start with the most common health benefit associated with the use of  Biotin. It's not rare to find people who lose their precious hair because of Biotin deficiency. There is enough scientific data to support the fact that Biotin deficiency is related to hair loss. This has opened ways to take Biotin supplements because they are good at filling the gap that causes the deficiency. You may check out the best hair growth supplements and what you need to know to grow your hair.

Biotin plays an important role in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Data suggests that 50% of the women out there fail to get sufficient Vitamin B-7 during their pregnancy and breastfeeding time. Biotin requirement of the body gets pumped up in both of these conditions and more animal tests have reflected the signs of birth defects due to its deficiency. The fact is that Vitamin B-7 deficiency is caused due to its heavy breakdown during pregnancy.

A pregnant woman is encouraged to make an early visit to her doctor if she is expecting a baby anytime soon.

Biotin ensures smooth macronutrient metabolism.

Macronutrients? Let me start this off by telling what macronutrients are. They are the collective name for protein, fat, and carbohydrates. However, it turns out that these micronutrients are dependent on Biotin in order to get synthesized and that's the reason why the body requires Biotin-containing enzymes for carrying out the metabolism of various amino acids, some of them being as crucial as Leucine.

Apart from this, fatty acids also require this vitamin for their synthesis. And that's not all! Studies have shown that Biotin is extremely important in enabling the process of gluconeogenesis. By converting non-carbohydrate sources into glucose, this process provides the energy required by the body.

Biotin is the solution to chipped, cracked, split, and brittle nails.

Do you know one out of every five persons on Earth has some form of nail condition? Having a 20% probability of you being that person, the door that has Biotin on the other side should be the perfect one to knock. Various studies have shown visible improvement in the quality of nails as a result of Biotin consumption.

Biotin lowers the blood sugar level in Type 2 Diabetes.

Last but not the least, Biotin has a significant impact on the blood sugar levels in the case of Type 2 Diabetes. This is because of the fact that Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic disease and Biotin helps to improve the metabolism of the body. This can prove to be a ray of hope for those who are suffering from this deadly disease and shockingly the numbers are not small.

Mouthwash Matters 

On television commercials and in magazine articles, people sing praise to the latest whitening fads, from kinds of toothpaste to strips to trays to tech devices. Everyone wants the look of a bright, beaming, beautiful smile. However, how often do you hear about oral health? 

Beyond brushing and flossing, rinsing with mouthwash is the healthiest thing you can do for your smile. Mouthwash has a multitude of benefits. It: 

• Cleans hard-to-reach crevices of the tongue and cheeks

• Rinses bacteria

• Fights against tooth decay

• Counters gingivitis

• Promotes healthy teeth and gums

• Freshens breath 

Some varieties of mouthwash cater to special oral needs by reporting whitening benefits and dry mouth curing properties. They can also help with other issues like fungus, which can appear as a black spot on your tongue. In this particular example, make sure you check with your doctor if the spot does not go away after using your mouthwash regularly.

Despite the advantages of traditional over-the-counter varieties, these options have their downsides. The main disadvantage is that supermarket varieties are antiseptics that destroy the microbial balance in your mouth. Imagine consuming a daily antibiotic to avoid getting sick. That would wreak havoc on your body, so why do that to your mouth? Good bacteria are usually discussed in terms of the gut but do not neglect them in your mouth. Instead, use homemade mouthwash recipes to boost your dental routine. 

Have you heard suspicions about the artificial additives in the food we eat every day? From sodas to prepackaged foods, you have surely heard the criticisms. If you have cleaned up your diet, also consider your body, face, and mouth care products. 

Traditional mouthwashes are loaded with two pesky ingredients: artificial sweeteners and alcohol. Both of these ingredients can burn and irritate sensitive mouths. If you experience dry mouth, consider that the ingredients in your oral care products may be to blame. 

Alcohol—including the ever-popular ethanol—can exasperate dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. So, t turns out that parched mouth you are experiencing may not be from nerves or dehydration. If a health condition is contributing to your dry mouth, the alcohol in oral hygiene products on the market probably irritate and inflame the issue. Natural solutions avoid that issue entirely. Plus, alcohol-free options are proven to give people glossier, brighter, whiter teeth that will be in less need of dental restoration. Why wait to try out these healthier choices for a happier mouth? 

Now that you know most mouthwashes on the market do more harm than good in your mouth, consider going the DIY route. However, can you actually trust that mild, home crafted rinses will provide the benefits you need? Yes! Natural solutions offer four key benefits that you would want in any mouthwash. They work to: 

• Prevent plaque build-up

• Loosen food particles

• Health canker sores/ulcers in the mouth

• Help keep cavities away 

The best part is that the benefits can be customized by tweaking recipe ingredients. Experiment to tailor them to your needs and wants. So, what can those pre-made mouthwashes do those natural ones cannot? Not much. Keep reading for two great recipes to start your journey into natural oral care. 

The great thing about these two simple mouthwash recipes is that whether you are a seasoned natural health lover or new to the natural lifestyle, you will probably have these ingredients in your bathroom and kitchen cabinets. That makes these unbeatable in the convenience and accessibility departments. What can you lose by giving these a try? Make it a fun project with craft groups or kids to explore hands-on health hacks together. 

Want a quick tip? Just be sure to re-make homemade mouthwashes daily. The lack of preservatives means that these healthier options have a short shelf life. 

This is a mouthwash that packs the invigoration of traditional mouthwashes without the dryness, sensitivity, and disruption to your mouth. Hydrogen peroxide is the base of this quick fix. It is a natural antiseptic that berates the bad bacteria, sending gingivitis and plaque out your trap. Peppermint essential oil will work to freshen breath and treat canker sores, oral wounds, and swollen gums. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of filtered water

• 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide

• 6 drops of peppermint essential oil 

To make, combine water, hydrogen peroxide, and peppermint essential oil in a glass jar. Then, shake it. To use, swish approximately an ounce of the mixture in your mouth for ten seconds. Spit the rinse out, and reap the advantages. 

This recipe is another quick, easy, functional option. Baking soda is known as a tooth whitening back, but it is used in this recipe for its antibacterial properties that eliminate bad breath and prevent gum diseases including gingivitis. Tea tree oil is recommended to avoid bad breath and heal sores. Peppermint and spearmint oils will combat the heavy scent of tea tree oil and finish this rinse off with a refreshing note, much more palatable to those weaning off of pre-made oral care items. However, feel free to adapt the essential oils to meet your needs. Some people enjoy a citrus oil blend or a cinnamon oil blend. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• Essential oils 

To make, in a mason jar, add warm water. To that, add in the baking soda. Once that has dissolved, add in desired essential oils. Try out 5 drops of tea tree oil and 7 drops of peppermint or spearmint oil. Shake or whisk together ingredients. To use, swish a big mouthful of the concoction in the mouth before spitting. 

Bonus: something completely different

If you can’t be bothered to mix your own mouthwash, there is an old Ayurvedic practice you might want to try: Oil Pulling. This basically means swishing a tablespoon of coconut, sesame or sunflower oil around your mouth for 20 minutes. Then you spit it out and rinse your mouth with salted water. After which you brush and floss. The oil is said to pull toxins from your mouth, as well as loosen up any debris and plaque. People have also reported getting whiter teeth. 

With such uncomplicated ways to experiment with better-for-you oral hygiene, mouthwash is an easy swap to make if you want to dip your toes into natural health and beauty options. 

Paired with a solid routine of brushing and flossing twice daily, this mouthwash can perfect your smile in terms of health and beauty. Try out these recipes and share your results.

Why are mosquitoes attracted to certain people? 

Scientists have proven that aside from genetics, certain elements in the body chemistry found in excess in the skin can make mosquitoes attracted to people. People with high cholesterol, lactic acid, and who emits more carbon dioxide can be mosquito magnets.

Despite keeping the surroundings free from the stagnant water where mosquitoes breed and maintaining a cleaner environment, it is inevitable that sometimes a few mosquitoes would still thrive and come from unseen sources. In order for susceptible individuals to be protected from being bitten by mosquitoes, one of the things that they should do is to use safe and effective insect repellent lotions or sprays. There are so many products that promise the best results but it also depends on the person's idiosyncrasy. In our case, we tried and tested too many brands in the past, both all-natural and the ones with DEET, but only one brand passed our standards. Since then, we make sure that we never run out of stock of that product at home especially during the rainy season when Dengue cases rise.

Paps, Bunso, and Kuya attract mosquitoes that's why for seven years, Green Cross Active Protect Insect Repellent Lotion (10 Hours), the variant that has a 10-hour effect is our reliable partner in repelling those pesky mosquitoes that may cause Dengue and another mosquito bite-related disease. 



Green Cross is the only one that we find very effective. What we like about it is that it's an anti-dengue and antibacterial protection in one. Its efficacy and continuous protection from day and night last up to 10 hours. We don't need to reapply often to keep ourselves protected. It provides 99.9% antibacterial protection for 10 hours without causing any irritation. It's cool and non-sticky to the skin, perfect for our active lifestyle. The formula smells great on the skin. It doesn't smell medicated or herbal. Only a small amount is needed to cover the exposed skin. It can be spread on skin evenly and easily. It's also reasonably priced, available in a sachet, small tube, and big tube, making it affordable for all. It's also available in leading drugstores and supermarkets where we can find and buy it conveniently. And also, it's made by Green Cross so we're sure that we are using a well-researched, tried and tested, and safe product.

When I was very young, I began to be conscious of my body image at age 10. I heard my friends talking about menstruation, baby bra, pubic hair (Yes, they were talking about it.), spray net, body mists, and deodorants. I was so hesitant to ask my mom about that stuff. All I remember was she taught me to use Avon's Feeling Fresh Deodorant after taking a bath or shower because I was complaining that "Tawas", the antiperspirant/deodorant recommended by my grandmother, made my armpits sweaty and sticky. "Feeling Fesh" became my best partner in keeping myself free from body and armpit odor aside from using an antibacterial soap, Safeguard, to wash my body, and Palmolive Shampoo to wash my hair. These three products worked for my body chemistry and helped me to become free from body odor especially armpit odor at a very young age. That's why when I became a mom, I did the same thing with my boys. Like my mom did, starting them young worked.

Kuya and Bunso would easily get sweaty and their armpits would smell stinky or "maasim" when they reached the age of three. Paps and I encouraged them to use Arm and Hammer Deodorant after taking a bath using Safeguard Pink because after trying and testing, we discovered that these two brands suited their body chemistry. They would always stay fresh for the whole day. During that time when Arm & Hammer Advance Original would easily go out of stock, I would let them use Milcu Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder, which they would usually apply on their feet before putting their shoes on.

Preventing Armpit Odor

Our family uses Arm & Hammer Advance Original and Milcu Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder as deodorants for years. Why? They are safe to use, easy to find (Arm & Hammer doesn't go out of stock anymore.), versatile, don't stain clothing, keep the armpits dry and fresh-smelling, and protects the armpits from bacteria build-up and odor for 24 hours.

Instilling good grooming and hygiene in all forms should be done during our kids' formative years. Reminding them constantly and teaching by example are two of the best means to educate kids on practicing good grooming and hygiene. In doing so, they can never forget the importance of keeping themselves clean, neat, and well-groomed. Forming a habit can lead to better body image projection and not feeling inferior.

*****
The contents of this article were lifted from my messages to two teenage boys who asked me about my recommended deodorant brands a few years ago. To know some details about it, you may visit #AskAAPM for details.

When considering cosmetic surgery, insurance coverage is one of the most common concerns and is often the deciding factor in choosing whether or not to undergo surgery. If you want a breast reduction surgery, you're probably wondering whether your healthcare providers will cover the procedure. 

Cosmetic vs Medically Necessary Breast Reduction

Most health insurance plans don't cover any cosmetic surgeries, but they will cover reconstructive surgeries and medically necessary procedures. In some cases, a breast reduction is done for cosmetic purposes. You may feel self-conscious about your breast size and choose to undergo a reduction to increase your confidence in your figure. 

In other cases, breast size is linked to physical health issues, and surgery may be necessary to fix these problems. Many women have chronic back and neck pain because of their overly large breasts. Chronic pain can limit your mobility and seriously impact your quality of life. Large breasts often lead to poor posture, and this combined with the weight of the breasts can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness in the arms, hands, and fingers. 

Another common problem is rashes, infections, or inflammation underneath the breasts. Large breasts tend to trap moisture and heat, which can cause painful skin issues. Some women also develop permanent shoulder grooves where their bra straps sit because their breasts are too heavy for a bra to fully support. 

Other serious issues associated with a large breast size include exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, and chronic headaches. If you experience these symptoms, it's clear that a breast reduction is necessary to restore your health. Most insurance plans use these symptoms to differentiate between cosmetic and medically necessary breast reductions. However, it can still be complicated to have the surgery covered. 

How to Know If Your Insurance Will Cover Your Breast Reduction

The first thing you need to do is check if your health insurance lists breast reduction as an exclusion. If it does, your insurance will not cover the surgery. Fortunately, most insurance plans do not have an exclusion for breast reduction. This doesn't mean that they'll cover all breast reduction surgeries, but you have a chance of getting the procedure covered. 

Most insurance plans require that a certain amount of tissue be removed for the surgery to be covered. If less than this specified amount is removed, they believe that the breasts were not large enough to cause pain or health problems and that the surgery was only done for cosmetic purposes. 

The amount of tissue that needs to be removed varies based on the insurance company and plan. Some plans take your height and weight into consideration, and some specify an exact amount for everyone. Many insurance companies require that the surgery remove at least 500 grams of tissue to be covered. 

How to Get Your Breast Reduction Covered

If you believe that your insurance might cover your breast reduction, there are a few steps you should take. First, start documenting your symptoms. If you experience back or neck pain, posture issues, numbness, skin irritation, or any other problems because of your breast size, you should record when the symptoms started and whether they've progressed over time. 

If you've seen other medical professionals for these problems, try to get documentation of your visit. This includes massage therapists, physical therapists, and chiropractors. You should also document other treatments you've tried for the health problems. Many insurance plans require that you try other treatments before surgery, so keeping track of everything you've tried to reduce your pain will be very helpful. 

Once you have some documentation of your symptoms, it's time to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon. Your surgeon can identify posture issues or other problems and may diagnose you with symptomatic macromastia, which is the medical term for overly large breasts that cause chronic pain and other problems. This diagnosis is key for getting your insurance to cover the surgery. 

If your surgeon believes that your breasts are affecting your health, you can then reach out to your insurance company and request coverage. You and your surgeon will fill out paperwork and submit it to your insurance company, and they will hopefully approve the surgery. If they deny coverage, you can make an appeal. During this process, you'll have to supply extra documentation to your insurance company. You can get letters of support from other medical professionals, and your surgeon can give more information to your provider. 

All insurance plans are different, and some will cover breast reduction more willingly than others. If you want the surgery only for cosmetic reasons, it's unlikely that it will be covered. If you have documented health problems resulting from your breast size, you have a better chance. It can be time-consuming work to convince your insurance company to cover the surgery, but it's worth it to improve your quality of life. 

The doctors at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Miami provide breast reduction along with a wide variety of other procedures. Dr. Altman completed the prestigious Jerome P. Weber Fellowship before founding the Plastic Surgery Institute. Dr. Ghersi served as a faculty member in the plastic surgery department of the renowned Cleveland Clinic and completed an exclusive fellowship at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital. Dr. Oeltjen was an Associate Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University of Miami before entering private practice. You can learn more about these doctors and their services here: www.psimiami.com.

This is a guest post.