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Arkansas City Is Actually Paying the Homeless to Pick Up Trash

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In April 2019, Little Rock, Arkansas, began paying the homeless $9.25 an hour to pick up litter around the state capital. That pay outpaces the Federal minimum wage, as  Arkansas increased the state’s minimum wage to $9.25 an hour this year.

Called Bridge to Work, the program has been such a success that the city’s mayor,  Frank Scott Jr., is planning to extend it an additional year, according to 12 News Now.

About the Bridge to Work Program

Associate pastor Paul Atkins of the Canvas Community Church, which runs the program, said they’re excited about the program and its growth. They have spent around $80,000 total on the program to make sure the homeless have a chance at a better life.

“We want to work with them on their next step,” Atkins said during a board meeting last month. “There are a lot of barriers that our people experience to go from homelessness and panhandling to full-time work. There’s a lot of steps in between.”

The Bridge to Work program was only scheduled to last six months. However, administrators extended it through the end of September 2020, according to the site.

The homeless also receive other help. Opportunities include physical and mental health treatment and other job interviews in addition to their paychecks. Some even receive temporary accommodations.

According to Atkins, 380 people joined the clean-up effort, with some joining multiple times. Participants cleaned a total of 130 sites, filled 2,056 bags with trash, and worked 1,821 hours so far.

homeless-cancer-food-house

Single Homeless Mom Gets New Home! READ>

The Plight of the Homeless

Unfortunately, homelessness is on the rise, despite unemployment rates declining. Many people debate about what can be done to end homelessness, but there are plenty of differing opinions. Some people believe that homelessness is a direct result of laziness, but others view it as merely a side effect of a much deeper problem. Of course, no one chooses to be homeless. Extenuating circumstances such as mental illness, lack of income, trauma, addiction, and other issues often plague the homeless.

Arkansas views the plight of the homeless in a compassionate way, offering them a solution to the problem instead of shunning them for it.

Some people, even with good jobs, cannot afford rent due to rising costs. So, they are forced out onto the street even though they’ve put in the effort to avoid homelessness. Also, because of near-stagnant wages and rising home costs, many people cannot even think about buying their own homes.

This problem extends beyond the United States; it’s now a global issue. 

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report, in 2018, the United States reported over 553,000 of homeless people on any given night.

National reports have found that the homeless make up 2% of the overall population. That equates to around 150-160 million people. The reports also say that 20% of the world’s population lacks adequate housing, which equals approximately 1.6 billion people.

Adequate housing means access to necessary infrastructure, lighting and ventilation, plumbing, safety, and other basic needs that humans have.

So, if you have a house with clean drinking water, a solid foundation and walls, plumbing, lighting, and proper ventilation, you’re better off than 20% of the world’s population.

It’s easy to tell the homeless to go get a job, but with competition among candidates on the rise, landing a job can be difficult for someone without the right background. However, some companies want to give the homeless a chance.

homeless

Another program for the homeless makes headlines

Little Rock isn’t the only place making headlines when it comes to offering the homeless jobs. Recently, The Independent revealed that the food giant, Pret a Manger, was going to provide the homeless a job. The company wanted homeless people to be able to get off the streets and into adequate housing, which the food company would provide.

The news outlet reported that the company planned to do the following: “As well as being given jobs in Pret stores nearby, they will also receive advice on how to get a bank account, save for a deposit, and develop their wider literacy and computer skills.”

Great things happen when we can work on coming up with solutions to problems instead of looking down upon those who are less fortunate. Does your city do anything to help the homeless get off the streets? Share with us in the comments!

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

3 Things Everyone Should Do Before They Turn 30

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Of course, every list about what you “should” do before you turn 30. or 40, or any other decade should be taken with a grain of salt. And, that’s because everyone’s goals and perspectives on life are different. One person might want to travel the world while another may want to open up a pie shop. Different strokes for different folks. However, one of the top regrets of the dying is not following one’s dreams. It doesn’t matter how old you are; you can still achieve whatever you desire if you have the willpower and passion to do so.

As they say, it’s better to fail at something and say you tried than remain stuck in your head dreaming about doing things. Dreams require action to get from Point A to Point B. As humans, we are creatures of habit and comfort. We don’t like doing things that get us outside our normal routine, unfortunately.

However, studies have shown that stability is the enemy of learning. In other words, getting out of the comfort zone is the only way we can keep our brains sharp and adapt to changes. So, the key is to push past that initial discomfort and continue putting yourself a little more outside your comfort zone. That way, you can make some progress without getting too overwhelmed by your feelings.

With that said, let’s go over some common regrets people have about things they wish they’d done before turning 30.

“In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.” – Lewis Carrol

3 Things Everyone Should Do Before They Turn 30

1. Travel

Before you turn 30, think about doing some traveling, even if it’s just to another state. Studies have shown that traveling abroad, specifically, offers benefits such as:

  • boosting your immune system because you’re exposed to new bacteria and organisms
  • increasing cognitive flexibility and depth
  • becoming more culturally aware
  • boosting emotional stability and openness

If you can’t afford to travel all over the world, even doing a cross-country road trip with a loved one or by yourself can offer numerous benefits. Many of us get wrapped up in our own lives and become complacent after a while, so why not use your one or two week vacation and expand your horizons? You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

If you need some more encouragement, here are some words from Quora users about their regrets surrounding travel:

“My father worked for Qantas and I only discovered recently that I had Staff Travel discounts available to me up until I was 26.

I never used it.

Not once.

I have been fortunate in the fact that I have traveled the world since then and even in my high school days I did some travel.

But, I squandered a major chance on some real adventures before I took on life`s responsibilities and started to settle down.

Your 20s are the perfect opportunity.

You have the time and innocence to spread your wings and go explore.

There are so many wonderful places, people, and things to do out there in our big, amazing planet.

Do it.

Don’t wait!” – Quora user Michael Bosman 

“Travel. Ask people at your workplace what they would be doing if they had significant time off, and the answer is almost always the same—traveling. Then they look to their 20-something colleague and look at them with such envy about how much time they have. Many regretted as singles not doing it more often. There was more time, lessobligations, but many did not do anything about it. In fact, many admitted they would have been happy to increase that credit card balance for the sake of travel.” – Quora user Ahmed N. Muneeb

2. Follow your passion

In life, there’s a lot of pressure to follow a certain path, and you can easily go down the wrong one if you’re listening to the crowd. Instead of following in others’ footsteps, don’t be afraid to blaze your own trail. Create your own story. Too many people are staying inside the lines instead of venturing outside their comfort zone, and this leads to stagnation and discontent.

Everyone has different passions in life, so don’t ever listen to people who want to squander your dreams. Only you know what your heart longs for, so don’t hesitate to answer that call and take the leap of faith. When we’re following our bliss, we raise our frequency and allow the universe to move through us effortlessly. Any discontent we feel about our current situation creates energetic blockages in our bodies, and this will only compound the more we turn away from our joy.

Here’s what one Quora user has to say about following your passion:

“With rising student debt and declining job security, those in their 20s are panicking. Again as someone who fits in this category, I can attest to this.

This is why I’ve started to work on my skillset outside of my traditional 9-to-5 job.

Personally, I love to write. I hope to eventually earn a full-time salary as an author and freelance writer.

Every single day, I write for two hours.

Every single day, I read for an hour.

I’m not great but through discipline and consistency, I’m slowly getting there.

I love my 9-to-5 job, but anything can turn on a dime. One conversation with HR and I could find myself unemployed within a matter of weeks.

It’s important that you explore now, when you’re free of serious commitments (i.e. children), to explore whatever craft you’ve chosen and work, slow and steady, towards mastery.” – Quora user Jennifer Chan

3. Try new activities

Before you turn 30, try to get involved with as many things that bring you joy as possible. Even if you have kids or a demanding job, take some time on the weekends to learn a new skill or hobby. You can even bring your kids with you! Let’s say you want to learn how to crochet. Maybe you can find a local class and learn from others – it could even turn into a business if you really enjoy it! The sky is truly the limit when it comes to taking on new activities.

Learning a new skill creates new pathways in the brain which help you perform better and retain all the incoming information. Therefore, if you aren’t actively learning things, your brain remains the same. Every day, try to work on a skill that you consider important. Even if you’re only working at it a few minutes a day, your brain will start to absorb the information.

Here’s what a Quora user says about learning:

“Your brain is like an engine.

The more you take care of it, the smoother it runs.

The more you work on it, the faster and more powerful it, and you, become.

When you stop using it for long periods of time, it becomes slow and rusty.

I don’t know about you, but I want a smooth, powerful engine.

The sad thing is that many people don’t think this way.

Instead, as soon as they stop school, they stop working on their brains.

Personally, I’ve learned more in the last year since I graduated college than I did in most of my schooling.

Real learning happens outside of school.

Real learning happens when YOU decide what you want to learn and how.

This is where life gets awesome.

There are an infinite amount of things to learn. More than anyone can learn in one lifetime. But that is what is so exciting.

You can learn everything and anything you want.

And with each new thing you learn, your experience of life changes.

Simply put, life is more fun when you learn new things!” – Quora user John Michael Domingo 

So, how can you get started on your goals?

Basically, you need to work on one major goal at a time. Need job experience? Volunteer to feed the homeless or coordinate a fundraiser. If you want to travel, make a list of places you want to see and figure out a ballpark estimate of how much money you need to make it happen. You don’t have to have a concrete plan, of course, but knowing some of the basics will help bring your plan to life.

Life is about learning, so as long as you make an effort to keep your dreams alive and go for it when the time’s right, everything will take care of itself. Don’t overthink it too much; just do what your heart desires and life will unfold as it should.

Final thoughts about things you should do before you turn 30

We spend a lot of our days doing things we don’t really enjoy, and that’s a real shame. Life should be about experiences, not just responsibility. Sure, we all have bills to pay, but there’s no one right way to go about that. You can pay the bills working as a comedian just as you can pay them working in finance. It’s all about what you want to be doing with your time. Choose wisely, and always follow your heart. Before you turn 30, make sure you’ve done at least one thing that brings you pure happiness.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

5 People Who Get Relief From Parkinson’s With Medical Marijuana

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Medical marijuana, or medical cannabis, is marijuana that is produced, marketed, and consumed for health purposes.

In the United States, medical marijuana consumption is legal in 33 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia. However, all cannabis use remains illegal at the federal level.

In Canada, marijuana is legal for any purpose and any amount. Besides Uruguay, Canada is the only sovereign country where marijuana is entirely legal.

Medical marijuana is used to treat or reduce the symptoms of multiple conditions. This list includes Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Without a doubt, medical marijuana for Parkinson’s Disease has gained a large following in the U.S. and elsewhere.

In this article, we will discuss more medical marijuana and medical marijuana for Parkinson’s. Among the issues discussed include:

  • What medical marijuana is – and how it works
  • The reasons medical marijuana for Parkinson’s is a big issue
  • The idiocy of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The main part of this article includes five real-life examples of people with Parkinson’s who have gotten relief from medical marijuana. Later, you will hear their stories. Finally, you’ll learn why some have become adamant proponents of medical marijuana for Parkinson’s Disease.

What is Medical Marijuana?

medical marijuana

“Patients…report may benefits of CBD, from relieving insomnia, anxiety, spasticity [muscle spasms], and pain to treating potentially life-threatening conditions such as epilepsy.” ~ Peter Grinspoon, M.D. (source)

Doctors prescribe medical marijuana, or cannabis and cannabinoids, for a specific therapeutic purpose. However, medical marijuana differs from recreational marijuana in some important ways, namely in THC levels. Medical marijuana strains often vary in potency (strength), which is usually determined by THC content. More on THC later.

There are over 100 chemicals in the marijuana plant, known as cannabinoids. Each compound may have a different effect, depending on one’s physiological makeup. The two main chemicals often discussed in medical circles are CBD and THC.

The real name for THC is tetrahydrocannabinol. It is the cannabinoid that produces marijuana’s psychoactive (affecting the mind or mental processes) effects. CBD is short for cannabidiol. And that is the primary marijuana substance that does not induce any psychoactive effects. Typically, medical marijuana is higher in CBD and lower in THC, which results in less of a “high.”

So, let’s first discuss how marijuana may help people with Parkinson’s.

A Look at Parkinson’s Disease

“Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder. It affects dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons predominately in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. … People with PD may experience: Tremor, mainly at rest and described as a pill-rolling tremor in hands.” ~ Parkinson.org (source)

Parkinson’s disease (‘PD’) is an often life-changing medical condition that severely limits mobility. Because it is a “movement disorder,” Parkinson’s disease causes balance problems, slowness, stiffness of muscles, and tremors.

Parkinson’s results from a decrease in dopamine levels of the brain. The deterioration and loss of nerve cells in the brain region called the substantia nigra, the area of the brain responsible for producing dopamine. Significant brain dopamine loss can trigger adverse symptoms, such as those seen in PD.

Parkinson’s is a lifelong, progressive disease. Of course, progressive disease is one in which the associated symptoms tend to worsen over time. Further, the symptoms of Parkinson’s are placed into two categories: motor (movement) and non-motor.

Motor symptoms of Parkinson’s include the following:

  • Tremor (shaking)
  • Slowed movement
  • Muscle rigidity
  • Loss of automatic movements
  • Speech changes
  • Impaired balance and posture.

Non-motor of PD are various and may include the following:

  • Anxiety
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Low blood pressure
  • Restless leg syndrome
  • Sleep disturbances.

Parkinson’s is a highly personalized disease. The associated symptoms, life impact, and progression often differ from person to person.

An estimated 1 million people in the U.S. are affected by Parkinson’s. Additionally, another 6 million people worldwide have the condition.

Marijuana for Parkinson’s Disease

“…marijuana is said to be a fantastic muscle relaxant, and people swear by its ability to lessen tremors in Parkinson’s disease.” ~ Peter Grinspoon, M.D. (source)

One of, if not the most problematic symptoms for those with Parkinson’s, is tremors or muscle spasm. There are various types of tremors and muscle spasms, but the most common is the resting tremor. This is an uncontrollable shaking that worsens when the patient is at rest. Movement typically provides some relief in tremor frequency.

It is this common symptom of tremor that seems to be suppressed with medical marijuana. In a 2014 Israeli study of 20 Parkinson’s disease patients, all reported symptom improvement. Various Parkinson’s symptoms were improved, including tremor. The symptoms of bradykinesia (motor slowness), sleep difficulties, and pain levels also decreased. Moreover, researchers did not observe any adverse effects of the drug users.

What remains unclear is how medical marijuana acts on the brain and body to reduce tremor symptoms. Doctors know that muscle tremor worsens with stress. Because marijuana can produce feelings of calmness, relaxation, or euphoria, this inherent stress response reduction may reduce associated tremor.

Let’s read some firsthand accounts of Parkinson’s patients who find relief from medical marijuana.

5 Real-Life Examples of People Who Get Relief From Medical Marijuana

  1. Ben Stecher, Quora

Ben Stecher is a 32-year-old Canadian diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago. Stecher is passionate about Parkinson’s research, traveling the world to keep abreast of all the latest findings.

For Stecher, his experience was a bit mixed at the beginning, saying:

“When I initially start taking [medical marijuana] … my symptoms in general (felt) a bit worse! Then [the symptoms] start to level off and, maybe an hour or two later, I do feel some benefit with tremor and rigidity.”

Besides experiencing relief from his tremor and ‘rigidity’ (stiffness) symptoms, Stecher doesn’t underestimate the psychological benefits that marijuana provides. Parkinson’s symptoms can be quite severe, causing significant stress. Therefore, medical marijuana helps Stecher calm down and settle into his life.

  1. Kim Bulpitt, Quora

“As a Parkinson’s victim, it helps relax your body, so you don’t shake as much or in my case, spasm as much. Dopamine is lacking in our brains, so a high is not achieved to the same degree as someone else. Sleep is also a problem with Parkinson’s, so it also helps with that. Could not survive without it.”

A Quora user named Kim Bulpitt notes the spasm reduction benefits of medical marijuana. In addition, Ms. Bulpitt mentions the sleep-enhancing benefits of medical marijuana, which have been demonstrated in various studies.

Because marijuana can produce extended feelings of calmness and relaxation, the inherent reduction in the stress response may act to improve sleep quality.

  1. ‘chronicallychillbun,’ Reddit

A Reddit user by the name of ‘chronicallychillbun’ offers up her Parkinson’s and medical marijuana story:

“…TOPICAL marijuana products are amazing!! Seriously like a topical muscle relaxer. Won’t get into the bloodstream. CBD topicals seem to be effective too.”

This Reddit user is talking about medical marijuana products that users apply by rubbing into the skin. While she doesn’t specify the symptom that topical marijuana products help to ease, she is likely referring to muscle spasm.

She is also grateful for not having to experience the often hellish side effects of prescription medicine: “…I get true lasting relief without feeling the side effects of regular prescription muscle relaxers and pain pills, which don’t work nearly as well.”

  1. ‘BookPherq,’ Reddit

For a Reddit using the handle ‘BookPherq,’ medical marijuana has eased their pain symptoms. BookPherq says, “I’m happy to relieve debilitating pain in minutes with no psychotropic effects. From crying and gripping the sheets to doing the dishes and making dinner…”

The Reddit user doesn’t specify the types of pain they go through. However, per parkinson.org, the kinds of pain experienced with Parkinson’s often include:

– aching or burning pain from the skeleton or muscles

– sharp, sudden pain from a nerve or nerve root

– aching or pulsing pain from continuous twisting and writhing

– “pins and needles” pain symptoms that radiate from a nerve or nerve root

  1. ‘ryno68’, Reddit

The Reddit user ‘ryno68’ says, “I have a fair amount of depression & anxiety with my PD, and all forms (high THC, high CBD) seem to benefit this. I am much less of a sad, anxious A-hole after a dosing. High CBD strains are best for my muscle stiffness, which has become more problematic. It also relieves stress quite well.”

The Reddit user ‘ryno68’ also mentions the valuable psychological benefits of medical marijuana for his Parkinson’s. As stress may exacerbate muscle movement difficulties in PD patients, the psychological and psychosomatic benefits of cannabis use are pertinent here.

medical marijuana

Final Thoughts: Ending the Stigma of Marijuana Use

“The reality is that things change; the question is, how will I perceive that change, and am I willing to change along with it?” ~ Michael J. Fox, actor, Parkinson’s patient and founder of the Michael J. Fox Foundation (source)

So let’s be clear: medical marijuana may or may not ease one’s symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. It is by no means a miracle drug. Thus, you should not think of it as such.

However, the fact that marijuana remains illegal in most areas of the world is ignorant at best and devastating at worst.

Despite the asinine governmental restrictions on marijuana in the U.S., enough research proves the efficacy of marijuana on various ailments. Unlike prescription medication, these same studies note a near lack of severe side effects from marijuana use.

Therefore, the fact that a person must travel across the country or around the world to see if medical marijuana will help ease their debilitating symptoms is immoral. But still, these facts remain:

– Prescription drugs are legal. Many are also harmful and ineffective (see: opioids.)

– Alcohol is perfectly legal. Regardless, the misuse of alcohol kills millions of people every year and ruins the lives of countless others.

– Medical marijuana, properly cultivated and consumed responsibly, offers many health benefits. Further, it has little to no side effects.

Anyone else see the problem here? It’s time to end the ignorant stigmatization of marijuana.

Get Rid of Acne Scars Permanently with These Home Remedies

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Anyone who suffers from acne knows how painful and frustrating it can be. Unsightly breakouts deal some severe damage to your self-esteem. Additionally, the most severe acne can leave lasting scars on the skin that seem impossible to get rid of.

Nowadays, we see countless over-the-counter and prescription products that purport to help eliminate acne scars. Additionally, you may opt for pricey cosmetic treatments like microdermabrasion that claim to help resurface uneven skin. However, few realize that they probably have at least a few all-natural acne scar solutions sitting right in their kitchen cabinets.

Read on to discover some simple, easy, cost-effective ways of eliminating acne scars for good!

What Are Acne Scars?

Before we can determine how best to treat acne scars, we need to know what kind of scars we’re dealing with. Most people use the word “scar” to refer to any leftover inflammation or deeper lesions caused by breakouts. But in fact, the term isn’t one-size-fits-all.

A lot of what people refer to as acne scars are, in fact, something called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (or PIH): a flat discoloration of the skin that can range in color from pink to black with many shades in between. PIH affects men and women equally and can be seen in all skin tones. However, it occurs more commonly in those with darker complexions.

Because acne is a form of inflammation, it triggers the skin’s melanin-producing cells (or melanocytes) to make new melanosomes – essentially tiny grains of pigment. These melanosomes can result in visible discoloration long after the initial breakout has healed, and their color can be deepened by exposure to the sun. The worse the breakout, the more pronounced the PIH tends to be.

The good news is that because PIH is textureless, it can usually be covered up with cosmetic products such as foundation and concealer. It can usually also be lightened over time by avoiding sun exposure and using lightening agents such as hydroquinone.

Other Types of Scarring

The other types of acne scars include hypertrophic (or keloid) scarring and atrophic (or depressed) scarring. Hypertrophic scars result from the body producing too much collagen in its effort to heal acne. It triggers the growth of a raised mass known as a keloid. In contrast, atrophic scars arise from a loss of tissue in the skin’s surface, commonly due to acne sufferers picking at comedones or scabs. These small depressions in the skin resemble chicken pox scars and are commonly referred to as icepick or boxcar scars.

Unlike post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, icepick and boxcar scars are much harder to conceal because they change the skin’s texture. Often, the appearance of scars like these can only be reduced by resurfacing the skin through treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, micro-needling, dermal fillers, or laser treatment.

However, if you start treating your scars before they have a chance to heal fully, you can reduce your chances of needing more invasive treatments in the future. Let’s discover how!

Home Treatment for Acne Scars

The biggest key to avoiding acne scars in the first place is prevention. This means resisting the urge to squeeze or pop pimples or pick at newly forming scabs. It also means nourishing your healing skin with soothing home remedies.

In this section, we’ll explore a few of those remedies and the beneficial properties they have to offer.

1. Aloe vera gel

Most of us are familiar with aloe vera, and many of us even have aloe plants in our homes. Aloe vera gel is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter antibiotic ointments. It’s also a popular remedy for treating minor burns and sunburns thanks to the cooling sensation aloe gel provides when applied topically.

Because aloe has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s also highly recommended for treating cysts, small lacerations, and acne, as it helps to moisturize and fight infection as it heals the skin. If used regularly, there is evidence that it can also help prevent future breakouts by improving your skin’s resistance to acne-causing germs.

Though there is an abundance of aloe-based skincare products available in most drugstores and grocery stores, you can also extract the gel directly from the plant itself. Simply break off a leaf, squeeze, and apply the gel to the affected part of your skin. Repeat daily until the breakout has fully healed.

2. Honey

It’s a sweet treat you can stir into your tea, drizzle over some hot buttered toast, and even slather onto your skin. Honey is an underappreciated secret weapon in the fight against acne scars: it’s inexpensive, available in most supermarkets, non-toxic, and naturally antibacterial. It’s also a natural exfoliant, a moisturizer, and has been shown to help promote healing acne breakouts, eczema, and other skin afflictions.

Not all honey is created equal, however. If you plan to put it on your face, we recommend purchasing only raw, unpasteurized, organic honey. Processing kills much of the good bacteria that helps soothe and heal your skin, negating its medicinal benefits.

To help prevent acne scarring, simply apply a light but thorough coating of honey to any affected areas, and leave on overnight. To avoid making a mess, we recommend placing a towel over your pillowcase, tying back your hair, and – if possible – sleeping only on your back. This will allow the honey to penetrate your skin while you sleep and work its healing magic.

3. Coconut Oil

Another popular antifungal that you may have sitting right in your pantry is coconut oil. This multipurpose product has a huge array of uses, including makeup remover, moisturizer, hair conditioner, and acne scar preventer! However, there is an important caveat to keep in mind: if you know oils tend to block your pores when applied topically, you should probably avoid this one. Otherwise, coconut oil can be another great tool in your acne-fighting arsenal.

Coconut oil can be mixed with baking soda to form a thick paste that can then be applied as a mask. Before rinsing, rub in gentle circles and allow the gritty texture of the baking soda to act as a light natural exfoliant.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

In recent years, apple cider vinegar has become an increasingly popular home remedy. Many naturopaths recommend drinking a few tablespoons diluted in water each day to help promote kidney and liver health by purging the body of toxins. A few cups poured over your hair in the shower will help encourage strength and shininess. And when diluted with water, it can also be swabbed onto the skin as a natural astringent.

Please take note that because apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, it can irritate sensitive skin and should only be used on acne scars that have fully healed. You should also not apply this product to broken or healing skin or newly forming scabs. Do not apply it directly to the skin without dilution, as the acidity can cause burning and irritation.

To make the most out of apple cider vinegar, dilute a few tablespoons in about a cup of water, dip in a cotton pad, and dab the solution onto fully healed skin. You can repeat this treatment every other day and follow it up with your favorite moisturizer.

5. Lemon Juice

Another highly acidic solution, lemon juice has long been touted as a home remedy for fading freckles. But did you know that lemons also deliver rich doses of alpha-hydroxy acid, a popular compound in many prescription and OTC acne treatments?

When used with care, lemon juice can help fade the hyperpigmentation that commonly follows acne breakouts. Squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon into some warm water. Then, use a cotton pad to dab it into fully healed skin. Be aware that the citric acid in lemons can be highly irritating. So you should avoid getting it into even superficial cuts or abrasions.

lemon for skin care

6. Zinc

If you take a look at your sunscreen, you’ll likely notice that zinc is one of the active ingredients. But did you know that zinc is also a powerful remedy for acne breakouts?

In addition to being a vital nutrient that your body needs to stay healthy, zinc is an anti-inflammatory. In fact, dermatologists commonly prescribe it to treat a range of skin conditions, including. Those include eczema, melasma, psoriasis, and acne. Some studies have shown that oral zinc can help improve the appearance of acne, while others recommend topical varieties for maximum therapeutic value.

The best use of zinc will vary from person to person. Some people see improvements from tablets administered orally. But others require zinc-based soaps or creams to start achieving results.

Most dermatologists recommend taking 25 – 30 milligrams by mouth daily to help heal problem skin. You can also purchase soap bars containing pyrithione zinc at your local health food store and wash once daily. This can help reduce the appearance of both face and body acne. Doctors commonly recommend shampoos and conditioners containing zinc to those suffering from dandruff. However, they also prove useful for those suffering from acne on the scalp.

bonus tip: acneFinal Thoughts on Managing Your Acne Scars

Acne can be incredibly hard to get rid of. Moreover, the scars can take a serious toll on your self-confidence. But with some information and the right products, you can start taking steps to fight acne and prevent scarring. Better even, you can achieve this with products you already have in your home. The journey to more beautiful skin starts today!

Breastfeeding Diet: What to eat and avoid

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Breastfeeding moms have an enormous responsibility–feeding their infant. Are you considering nursing your baby?

According to a study published in the Washington Post, the eighth-largest newspaper in the United States, there were more than 3.8 million babies born in America in 2017. And according to a separate study published by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 8 in 10 mothers started breastfeeding their babies at birth.

Breast milk generally provides more nutritional value for newborns than baby formula. Therefore, new moms must consume a healthy, well-balanced diet. This practice nutrition ensures that those nutrients are passed on to their babies.

WHAT SHOULD NEW AND EXPECTANT MOMS KNOW ABOUT BREASTFEEDING?

Women who choose to breastfeed should know the foods that they will need to eat. And, more importantly, they’ll find a few that they will want to avoid. This diligence will ensure that their babies get the nutrients that they need.

In addition to being more discerning when it comes to food choices, they will also need to increase their calorie intake. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, one of the world’s foremost medical research centers, women who choose to breastfeed will need to consume anywhere from 450 to 500 additional calories per day as this will enable them to secrete breast milk.

WHAT ARE THE BEST FOODS TO EAT WHILE BREASTFEEDING?

Having established the fact that new and expectant moms who plan to breastfeed will need to increase their calorie intake substantially and become even more discerning when it comes to their choice in foods, let’s take a moment to go over some of the foods that they should eat to improve their health and the health of their baby. First and foremost, they will want to be sure to consume enough of the following vitamins and nutrients:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin D
  • Calcium
  • Vitamin E
  • Vitamin B-12
  • Potassium

While other vitamins and nutrients are also important, these are among the most essential when it comes to a healthy breastfeeding diet, according to most pediatricians and obstetricians. That said, let’s take a look at some of the foods that contain these vitamins and nutrients:

1 – SALMON

Similar to mackerel, herring, and sardines, salmon is a super fish that is chock-full of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that can aid in the development of a baby’s nervous system. Studies show that DHA may also reduce a woman’s chances of developing postpartum depression. If you are a new or expectant mom who is considering breastfeeding and have concerns about the mercury in salmon, you will be happy to know that it contains less of the chemical element than most other fatty fish, including mackerel, herring, and sardines.

2 – LEAN BEEF

Lean beef contains vitamin B-12 and protein, both of which can provide you with the energy needed to handle challenges that come with being a new mother. It is worth noting that eggs, milk, and milk products are also excellent sources of vitamin B-12 and protein as well. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, women who are nursing should aim for at least 25 grams of protein per day.

3 – LEGUMES

For women who are vegan or vegetarian, legumes are a great budget-friendly alternative to meat. And while they do not contain vitamin B-12, legumes, such as pinto beans, lentils, soybeans, and black beans, for example, are packed with protein and should be included in a well-rounded breastfeeding diet. To make up for the lost in vitamin B-12, women following a vegan or vegetarian diet should consider taking a multivitamin that contains between 2.6 to 2.8 mcg of the water-soluble vitamin. Some legumes also contain potassium, which can help enhance muscle strength and metabolism.

4 – BROWN RICE

Similar to protein, whole-grain carbohydrates can contribute to more energy and help keep you feeling satiated longer. Even more important, they can help you meet the higher calorie intake necessary to secrete breast milk. Along with brown rice, some of the best sources of whole-grain carbohydrates include oatmeal, barley, and whole-wheat pasta. Women who are breastfeeding should consume 3 or more servings of whole grains per day.

5 – BLUEBERRIES

Blueberries contain a host of vitamins and nutrients, such as beta-carotene, folate, choline, vitamins A and E, and manganese, which can all lead to better health for you and your baby. More than that, they contain antioxidants that may prevent disease according to a study published in the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, an open-access journal that publishes articles related to global health, maternal and child health, and nutrition. That said, women who are breastfeeding should aim for at least 2 servings of blueberries per day.

6 – ORANGES

Like blueberries, oranges contain antioxidants that can help prevent disease during infancy. However, they also contain vitamin C, which can increase the supply of milk in a woman’s breasts. More than that, vitamin C plays a critical role in the development of strong, healthy bones and teeth for both the mother and her baby. There is also evidence suggesting that vitamin C can even boost the immune system, making it possible for the mother and her baby to fight disease. In addition to oranges, vitamin C can be found in a variety of citrus fruits as well as bell peppers and tomatoes. A study published by the University of Maryland revealed that women who are breastfeeding should make it a point to consume at least 120 mg of vitamin C per day.

7 – EGGS

Consuming raw eggs is generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. However, cooked eggs are usually safe and offer a wide range of health benefits to both the mother and her baby. For example, eggs can help boost good cholesterol. And along with protein and healthy fats, they contain choline, a water-soluble vitamin-like essential nutrient that supports a variety of healthy bodily functions. Of course, the health benefits do not end there as eggs are chock-full of vitamins and nutrients. Some of  which include the following:

 

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B-12
  • Zinc
  • Vitamin B2
  • Selenium
  • Calcium
  • Folate
  • Phosphorous

Also, please note that the vitamins and nutrients in eggs can help lower the chances of developing severe vision problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

8 – WATER

Although not technically a food, women who are nursing should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Along with burning more calories, studies show that women frequently become dehydrated while nursing their babies. Beyond that, drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins and other impurities from the body.

breastfeeding

WHAT FOODS SHOULD YOU NOT INCLUDE IN A BREASTFEEDING DIET?

Admittedly, the list of foods that nursing women should avoid is much smaller compared to those that they are encouraged to eat. Nonetheless, women who are nursing should avoid the following:

1 – COFFEE

If you’re a nursing mother who enjoys coffee in the morning, you should avoid consuming more than 2 or 3 cups daily. That’s because caffeine can potentially lead to a decrease in your milk supply.

Furthermore, some anecdotal reports suggest that the caffeine in coffee can agitate your baby. Thus, it may cause them to cry more frequently and become overly fussy.

While we are on the topic, it is worth noting that several other drinks are high in caffeine as well. Of course, these include sodas and certain teas, for example. Therefore, you will want to minimize how many of these drinks you consume while nursing as well.

2 – ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS

While nursing, it is also a good idea to limit or even avoid foods that contain artificial sweeteners, some of which include jams, jellies, baked goods, and certain candies, for example. A study published by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the United States National Institute of Health, revealed that consuming excessive amounts of artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin and sucralose, can potentially lead to the development of diabetes and may also decrease the liver’s capacity to remove toxins from the body.

3 – ALCOHOL

While consuming excessive amounts of alcohol is never a good idea, doing so while nursing can affect your baby. Therefore, if you choose to consume alcohol, you should limit your consumption to 1 or 2 occasional drinks. Even then, you will want to wait until the effects of alcohol have worn off before nursing your baby. That typically takes about 2 hours.

breastfeeding

FINAL THOUGHTS ON A BALANCED BREASTFEEDING DIET

All in all, a healthy, well-balanced diet can be just as beneficial to a nursing mother as it is to her baby. So, if you’re a new or expectant mother who is considering nursing your baby, you’re encouraged to follow the tips outlined in this article. Finally, seek the advice of a licensed nutritionist, dietician, or physician.

Scientists Explain How Air Pollution Causes Bi-Polar Disorder and Depression

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There is nothing like the warmth of the sun on your face, listening to the wind whisper through the trees, or the gurgle of water. Indeed, you can’t help but feel a bit more relaxed.  Walking barefoot in slightly damp grass and deeply breathing in the fresh air makes you feel in the moment. It also helps you push away the problems of life for a small respite. Many of us have read about the research regarding the benefits of being outdoors in coping with depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, and attention deficit disorders.

However, what happens when that outdoor air is in a high pollutant area?  Is it possible that the polluted air may be lending a not so helping hand to your mood and emotional stability?  Scientists explain how air pollution can cause bipolar disorder and depression.

Nature and Coping with Symptoms of Depression and Bi-polar Disorder

While there are a variety of treatments for many of the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder, they are not a cure-all for the subtle complexity in how these mental illnesses may affect people.

The medical community links depression and bipolar disorder to the following:

  • mood shifts
  • intense sadness
  • lack of motivation
  • fatigue
  • hyperactivity/manic episodes
  • erratic sleep patterns
  • changes in appetite or eating habits
  • decreased cognitive function related to memory, concentration, and focus.

Other subtle symptoms include  the following:

  • effects on self-esteem
  • decreased self-image
  • lack of self-confidence
  • inability to handle stress
  • “foggy brain”
  • inconsistent energy levels

These symptoms require a more personalized approach.  The top suggested method of dealing with these symptoms is therapy with a medical professional.

In addition to therapy, scientists and therapists both agree that exposure to nature has proven to have significant benefits for one’s mental health. It can be as simple as walking through a nearby park, sitting outdoors enjoying the sunlight and fresh breeze, or involving yourself in an outdoor sport, such as basketball, soccer, or swimming.

University Studies on Bi-Polar Disorder and Air Pollution

One such study performed by Stanford scientists was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science and demonstrated that a 90-minute walk in an area of greenery reduced the symptoms of rumination and reduced neural activity in an area of the brain, which affects many with mental illness.  Rumination is the act of “negative self-talk,” which many with depression or bipolar disorder tend to do.  Individuals who walked 90 minutes in an urban environment reported no such thought changes nor displayed any changes in the area of their brain most affected by mental illness.

While many studies demonstrate that physical activity outdoors yields the highest results for overall improvement in mental and physical health,  merely looking at a nature image can still have positive effects on your brain and mood.

One such study by scientists from Texas A & M University and the Department of Psychology at the University of Delaware demonstrated this in an article published in Science Direct.  They played a high-stress film for 120 volunteers.  Next, they followed the movie by showing 1 out of 6 different nature or city scenes through a color video with sound.  Afterward, they checked the volunteers for various psychosomatic symptoms that relate to stress. These factors included high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and muscle stiffness.

Nature Therapies

Science proves that the individuals exposed to more scenic, nature images and sounds, recovered from the aforementioned movie faster than those who viewed more urban photos. The study also showed that more of the individuals were more mentally involved in watching nature images than those of the urban views.

There are thousands of studies related to the health benefits of the outdoors.  You might prefer grounding, the Japanese custom of forest bathing, or merely looking outside a window to a beautiful tree. Regardless, nature has positive effects on your physical and mental wellbeing.

It is becoming such a scientifically accepted fact that cities are being reconstructed to allow for more green areas, walking nature paths and sources of flowing water.  Continued studies are being done to determine which specific trees, types of water sources, plants, flowers, etc. elicit the most positive response.

Air Pollution and its Effects on Bi-polar Disorder

Recreating urban areas to make room for more trees, parks, and walking areas is a wonderful gift to all its residents for improving their health.  However, scientists have discovered that air pollution could have a negative impact on one’s mental health as well.

We are all aware that air pollution is deadly, but do you know how harmful it is?

According to W.H.O (World Health Organization),  there are:

  • 2 million deaths related to pollution of the outdoor air
  • 8 million deaths caused by indoor cooking on dirty stoves or from the fuels used.
  • 91% of the world has air pollution levels higher than the recommended amount
  • Air pollutions contribute to:
    • 29% of deaths from lung cancer
    • 24% of the deaths from stroke
    • 25% of the deaths from heart disease
    • 43% of the deaths from lung disease

With air pollution being such a deadly contributor to our physical health, it was only a matter of time before science started looking at its effects on our brain, neurological system, and our mental health.

Some Alarming Facts

An article in the American Psychological Association, Smog in our Brains, lays out a few studies, performed by various scientists,  that demonstrate the potentiality of air pollution creating a decline in our cognitive ability and mental health:

1 – The Impact on Females

Women ages 71-80 who were exposed to higher levels of pollution displayed a further reduction in cognitive ability.

2 – The Impact on Males

Men who had been exposed to black carbon, or soot, via driving in continuous traffic, showed a decline in cognitive ability equivalent to aging by two years

3 – The Effect on Children

Youngsters tracked from birth to the age of ten exposed to black carbon, performed worse on memory, verbal and non-verbal IQ tests.

4 – The Consequences to Animals

Researchers studied the brains of dogs raised in Mexico City, a notoriously polluted city, showed inflammation and significant markers of damage to the brain akin to Alzheimer’s disease. The same scientists then examined 55 children raised in Mexico City and compared them to a less polluted city.  They also showed neuroinflammation and damage to the frontal cortex of the brain.  Inflammation in the brain can lead to Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease and other central nervous system disorders. Additionally, these children tested poorly on memory, cognition, and intelligence.

Mice exposed to Beijing levels of pollution over 10 months showed alarming symptoms as well. They took more time to complete a maze and made more mistakes.  Further, they showed depressive symptoms such as not liking to swim as much and not sipping sugar water as often; both things characteristically enjoyed previously.  When placed on antidepressants, their behavior reverted back.

They also examined their brains.  Thus, they discovered there were changes to the nerve cells in the hippocampus and fewer spines on the neurons in the area.  These spines are what create connections to other nerves.  Without that connection, your memory performs poorly.

5 – A General Observation Across the Board

Another study showed that people who lived in high polluted areas tended to experience more depression and anxiety that those in cleaner air.

bi-polar disorder

Final Thoughts on the Connection Between Bi-polar Disorder and Air Pollution

A recent study published in PLOS shows further links between air pollution and psychiatric disorders of a depressive or bipolar type.  This study examined data from 151 million people from the United States and 1.4 million people from Denmark.   Specifically, the United States examined data from insurance claims, as reported from the IBM MarketScan database.  The claims were reportedly for bipolar disorder, major depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease.

Denmark used national registers of all those born from 1979-2002 to study bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and depression.  They calculated the air pollution exposure for the individuals’ first ten years.  In both studies, scientists linked bipolar and major depression in each country.

All of the studies mentioned are preliminary examinations of the potential of air pollution contributing to bipolar disorder and depression.  Still, science must rule out additional external factors that could bias the data.  Researchers will perform further studies in the coming years. Fortunately, the current studies are now gaining the attention of the EPA and W.H.O.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should stay indoors if you live in a highly populated and polluted city.  Strolling in a park or sitting under a tree is still better for your mental health than staying inside.  Scientists may explain how air pollution can cause depression or bipolar disorder. But for now, trees and plants remain the best-proven method to help clear air pollution, and now trees may be a helping hand for mental and emotional health too.

Science Explains How to Know If Vitamins and Supplements Are Working

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We have all walked down the overfilled over-the-counter medication aisles. There we find shelves stacked with homeopathic treatments, vitamins, minerals, and herbal treatments for a multitude of ailments.  We see almost limitless options.

“Taste the rainbow” takes on a whole different meaning when it comes to choosing any supplement based on the visual options alone.

Which one to buy?  Is the more expensive brand more effective than the generic option?  Am I paying too much?  Those are just a few of the questions that we consider when trying to choose.

Once you choose, however, how do you know if it is working?  Science explains how to tell if vitamins and supplements work for you.

Supplements and the FDA

Supplements are a 31 billion USD market in 2018 in the United States alone and 124 billion USD market globally.  Statisticians predict it to reach 56.7 billion in the U.S. by 2024 and 210.3 billion globally by 2026.  The main reason for the increase is the rising cost of health care.

Considering the size of such a market, you would think that someone monitors supplements for quality.  The FDA, or Food and Drug Administration,  is responsible for analyzing studies and reports from companies before putting prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs on the market.  However, the agency does not verify supplements before placing them on the shelf.

The FDA categorizes supplements as: “vitamin; mineral; herb or other botanical; amino acid; dietary substance for use by man to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake; or a concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combination of the preceding substances.”   Supplements are viewed as just that, a supplement to a person’s diet and are not designated to “treat, diagnose, prevent or cure a disease.”

They require that manufacturers place this warning on every label.

Manufacturer Responsibility

The burden of proof goes to the manufacturer.  It is their job to do their research and put out a supplement that follows established production, storage, and packaging guidelines and is safe for use.  Should a new drug be used, then the manufacturer must submit reports to the FDA to ensure it is safe.  Note: safe is not the same as effective.  Once a supplement is on the market, it is the responsibility of the FDA to take action if there is evidence of the supplement being mislabeled, making false or scientifically unproven medical claims or if the ingredients have been altered or shown to be unsafe.

On the FDA website, they do have a list of supplements that are recalled.  Additionally, if an individual believes a supplement or any drug is making you sick, it is of poor quality or mislabeled, then they can go to the FDA’s MedWatch page and file a report.

ConsumerLab.com and Labdoor.com, step in.

With the FDA not providing any real guidance regarding supplements, two consumer groups have stepped in to provide information:  ConsumerLab.com and Labdoor.com.   Each company runs its tests of supplements in stores and online to test for verification of the ingredients, quality of ingredients, the potency, how pure it is, its bioavailability, and consistency.   Each lab issues a report in regards to their findings and has some form of a rating system.

Here are the specifics regarding each group:

ConsumerLab

ConsumerLab.com is a privately held company founded in 1999 whose goal is to “identify the best quality health and nutrition products through independent testing.”  Their site is divided into multiple divisions in addition to test results.  They include where to buy the products, a Natural Products Encyclopedia and Recalls and Warnings as issued by the FDA, Federal Trade Commission and Health Canada.

They use independent labs to test various products, including vitamins, minerals, herbals, sport, and energy products.  These results are the purpose and focus behind the website.  They do describe their criteria and guidelines for determining the results of the purity, bioavailability, potency, consistency, and verifying the identity of the ingredients used.

They break reports into four sections:

  1. Background: Tells the consumer about the product and how it is commonly used
  2. Test Methodology: Explains how products were chosen for the test and criteria to establish a rating and any quality concerns.
  3. Results: Provides a summary of the results and if they met the criteria
  4. Consumer tips: Supplemental advice to consumers taking the product.

The amount of information you can receive may vary depending upon if you have paid a subscription fee or not. They rate supplements on a “pass” or “fail” standard.  Vendors of the supplements which have passed can pay to receive an approved quality product seal to add to their packaging.

Labdoor

Labdoor.com is a relative newcomer.  Founders formed the site 2012 but didn’t fund it until 2014.  Its primary focus is to provide supplement analysis information pages.  After testing is complete, they issue a press release regarding their findings.  Rather than just utilizing the website, these press releases are posted on their social media platforms for anyone who follows.  The results of the studies are free to the public.  They earn their money through affiliate links and the sale of supplements on the site.

Upon going to the site, I saw that they offer a point system for the products with ratings related to label accuracy, product purity, nutritional value, ingredient safety, and projected efficacy.  They also have offered a “Certification” to the top-rated products, presumably for a fee.  Within the site, you can get a quick glance as to which supplements are rated highest and in which categories, but to gain access to the full report,  a Facebook sign up page pops up.  This feature is so you can connect via Facebook to read the press release, as stated above.

Overall, both sites have value to the consumer and are worth a look before you buy a supplement or to verify a standing of a supplement you have been taking.

How do I know if my supplement is working?

With the above information, the question of if your supplement is working remains to be known.  The answer may vary depending upon what you are taking if it was doctor recommended as a potentially viable option or if you’re self-medicating or supplementing to prevent illness or disability.

In regards to vitamins and minerals, most people do not need to take a supplement as we get the majority of our nutrition through our diets. Specific vitamins, in excess, like Vitamin C, don’t even stay in our system if we exceed our maximum dose.  The most common vitamins recommended are prenatal vitamins, iron, calcium with vitamin D, and B-12.  Those are the nutrients we are most likely not to get enough of.  That said, it should be for your doctor to determine to ensure you do not overdose or have an interaction with medication.

The flip side

For some medical conditions, supplements and specific vitamins could prove detrimental.  For example, a person with cancer shouldn’t take certain vitamins, and they can encourage cancer cell growth.  Other health conditions include those with a heart condition, those taking diuretics, blood thinners, aspirin, or medication for the immune system.   Anyone about to have surgery should stop all supplements 2-7 days before surgery to prevent any potential interaction with the anesthesia.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements aid in various conditions when Western Medicine doesn’t seem to address the myriad of symptoms. Or, people take them as a preventative measure. There are a few tips which the FDA and others provide:

 

  1. Don’t jump the gun with the latest and greatest herbal supplement. Give it some time to have more studies published.
  2. If it claims to “cure” or treat all variety of illnesses, it is probably too good to be true
  3. Choose brands labeled with NSF International, U.S. Pharmacopeia, Underwriters Laboratory, or Consumer Lab seal.  These organizations have verified that the ingredients are as they claim, and do not contain any harmful ingredients
  4. More is not necessarily better. Taking a higher dose than recommended or prescribed does not necessitate improved results.
  5. Avoid pressure buys, such as limited time, money-back guarantee, etc.
  6. Check with your health care provider and make sure they know everything you are taking.
  7. Natural does not mean safe. Many poisons are natural as well.
  8. Use Consumerlab.com and Labdoor.com to research the purity of ingredients and their lab reports.
  9. Research how the vitamins and supplements act on your body. Not just what they do for you but if it should be taken with food, with fatty food specifically, with a glass of water, first thing in the morning, before bed, etc.  Know if your body even retains extra amounts of the vitamin or minerals.
  10. Pay attention to side effects.

Beyond all the safety measurements regarding taking the vitamins and supplements, it could take time for you to notice a difference in how you feel.  Of course, you’ll find some exceptions, such as with iron. However, most medications take at least a few weeks to a month to see or feel full benefits.  And others could take up to 3 months.

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Final Thoughts on the Efficacy of Vitamins and Supplements

Having access to supplements and vitamins and minerals to enhance or better our lives is a fabulous alternative.  Ensuring you are taking the proper steps in using those supplements is crucial to whether they can help you.  Your body’s reactions are probably the most prominent explanation to if they are working for you.  Science can explain if it is possible for vitamins and supplements to work at all.

Researchers Explain How Social Anxiety Can Change How People Handle Their Emotions

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Anxiety is part of life.  It is virtually impossible to avoid all situations which can create it.  We can experience it in our own home, driving to work in traffic, sitting in our boss’s office, or even going to the vet office.  For the majority of people, this anxiety is related to rational fears based on a situational occasion.

For 7% of people, however, that anxiety can come about meeting a friend at a coffee shop, going to the mall, or going to work, with no apparent trigger other than their fear and anxiety.  This fear is called social anxiety disorder.  Ironically though, those who have struggled with social anxiety have better learned coping strategies for anxiety-producing situations than an individual who does not have social anxiety.  Researchers explain how social anxiety can change how people handle their emotions.

What is social anxiety disorder?

For those who have never experienced a social anxiety disorder, it seems ridiculous to think that a person may spend an hour or two mentally preparing for the day.  That someone may run previous conversations repeatedly in their mind because they believe they sounded stupid.  That someone may turn down invitations because their heart starts to pound at the thought of it.  That they have thoughts like “how many people will be there, how many of them do I know, what should I talk about, do I have anything in common with them, I’m just going to stand out, look wrong and say the wrong things and then people will talk about me.” 

Social anxiety disorder is a mental illness characterized by the fear of interacting with people due to a belief of being negatively judged and evaluated by other people.  This is a chronic condition whose impact on a person’s functionality can range from high to low.  A person who has learned to handle the symptoms and can function well in their life is considered “high functioning.”  An individual who can barely walk down the street is unable to make eye contact, or can’t carry a job where they must interact with people is considered “ low functioning.”

 

            Triggers and Symptoms of Social Anxiety

 

There is a multitude of symptoms for those with social anxiety. They can be behavioral and physical, can differ in extremes, and have various triggers.

 

            Triggers for social anxiety:

 

  • Meeting new people or people in authority
  • Criticism or teasing
  • Focus of attention
  • Social engagements, especially if there are many strangers
  • Friendships or romantic relationships
  • Forced to speak in a roundtable group
  • Having their actions watched

 

Physical symptoms:

 

This list is a few of the physical symptoms.

 

  • Turning red in the face
  • Heart beating fast
  • Sweating
  • Twitches in the face and hands
  • Trembling
  • Mouth and throat become dry
  • Inability to speak clearly, mumbles
  • The voice becomes very low
  • Swallows a lot or has difficulty swallowing
  • Becomes nauseous
  • Becomes lightheaded

 

             Behavioral Symptoms

 

  • Has nervous habits: Picks at items to occupy hands, the body sways back and forth or chews their nails
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Feels awkward when talking with others
  • Thinks too much, overanalyzes
  • Mind races, obsessive thinking
  • Dwells on negative thoughts anticipates adverse outcomes without reason
  • Doublechecks detail and requires the reassurance of correct information
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Overcompensates by being overly loyal, diligent, a “people pleaser.”
  • Takes on too many tasks to occupy their time
  • Limited social life. Always has a “reason” not to attend the office parties, not to go to large gatherings, not to go to busy restaurants, etc.
  • Constantly compares themselves to others
  • Others may find them difficult to “read” due to appearing a bit standoffish, reserved,
  • Tires very easily and quickly due to emotional stress

The positives of high functioning anxiety:

Given all of these symptoms, you might think it is easy to identify a person with social anxiety.   A highly functioning person with social anxiety has learned to compensate or work around their symptoms to function and succeed in society.  They have developed some skills that generally are viewed as positive, and others appreciate it.  For example”

 

  • Attempts to be organized, well informed and punctual
  • More likely to be proactive. Not only does it look good to others but allows for a bit of control
  • Pays attention to details and is diligent and thorough in their work
  • Always tries to help others
  • Demeanor is calm and collected
  • Appears happy, likes to joke, laugh, and make others feel good too.
  • Keeps things organized, clean and orderly
  • More passionate about the things they do. They go the “extra mile” to do a good job.

Essentially, a person with high functioning social anxiety may very well be your office manager, manager, head nurse, or anyone who is in a position of others relying upon them to keep the workplace running smooth.  Underneath their composure, warm heart and diligence are an individual battling their fears and insecurities every day.

Methods of dealing with anxiety:

All of us have experienced anxiety.  It is a physiological reaction to a situation in which our brain is not comfortable, and therefore it prepares for “fight or flight.”  This increases your heart rate, breathing, which may cause some rise in body temperature and sweating, racing thoughts, and more.  For most people, we recognize it for what it is. Once we have handled the situation, our body and mind calm down without thinking negatively about ourselves.

For a person who has a social anxiety disorder, they tear apart everything they did wrong, imagine how poorly everyone must think of them and what a horrible person they are.  They fear everyone finding out their secret, or believe that they are a fraud.  What if everyone knew how horrible they are? No one would like them.  Imagine feeling that way every day.

Typical treatment for social anxiety consists of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.  The medications don’t work so well to alleviate anxiety.  Most antidepressants increase anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, anxiety medication usually has the side effect of really making you tired. Thus, you can’t function well during your day.

Cognitive therapy

This therapy offers the best results.  Cognitive therapy is designed to re-train your brain on how to interpret situations and your beliefs and reactions to them.  For example, most people have bad, negative memories of giving their first speech.  From that day on, they may have labeled themselves as ” unable to speak in public.”

For the majority of people, this is a falsehood.  With the proper supportive environment, practice, and training, most people can learn to speak in public.  Once you have successfully given a few speeches, you will no longer believe that false idea.  Now your brain knows that you can, in fact, give a speech, and the anxiety will be far less.

For an individual with social anxiety, a therapist may first need to go back and help the client isolate when they began having these thoughts, what happened, what was the outcome, and how did they feel.  Then, the therapist will teach the client how to start deconstructing those established negative beliefs in social situations through various methods.

These methods consist of teaching them to:

1 – Understand that everyone experiences anxiety.

It is a normal part of life.  Don’t hide from it. Face it.

2 – Keep things in perspective.

Recognize when you are using “extreme negative words or phrases” like always, never, hate, can’t, etc. Nothing in life operates across the board the same at all times.  Therefore you don’t “always” fail.  Along with that, put negative thoughts in perspective; “Really, is everyone looking at you?  What about that guy over there?  His back is to you and has been for an hour.  He hasn’t even seen you”.

3 – Relinquish control.

Accept that you can’t control everything and sometimes the unexpected can be fun. You don’t know what all you are capable of unless you do uncomfortable things.

4 – Redirect your focus

Focus on something other than your thoughts. Count carpet strands, dishes on the table, sets of silverware.  Get yourself out of your head.

5 – Take deep breaths.

Breathe in through your nose for the count of 4 and exhale slowly for the count of 5 through your mouth.  This exercise will calm your heart rate.

6 – Don’t drink a lot of caffeine.

Caffeine is a mild stimulant that will only make the physical symptoms of anxiety stronger.

7 – Reword negative talk.

Anxious becomes excited.  Scared become anticipated. Positive self-talk can help you turn the feelings around.

Why these techniques work:

These same methods work for anyone who is experiencing anxiety, with some variance depending upon the cause. A study was performed at the University of Virginia.  Various students who reportedly had multiple levels of social anxiety were given an app that tracked how they interacted during their school time for two weeks.

They were compared with those who did not have social anxiety but were still under anxiety-provoking activities.  What was discovered was that those with low functioning social anxiety and those without any social anxiety tended to use avoidance as a method of coping.   For those individuals, they demonstrated more interpersonal issues.

The individuals with high functioning social anxiety utilized at least one of 8 identified coping methods. They tended to show more of an interest in social interactions or at least a higher ability to cope.

anxiety

Final Thoughts on Facing Social Anxiety:

An individual who has social anxiety battles their thoughts, emotions, and fears daily.  Researchers have explained how social anxiety can change how people handle their emotions.   A high functioning individual has just found various tools to use to their advantage to cope so they can succeed in life.  Those tools may make them come across as a cool, calm, “together” kind of person that everyone can rely on to help, take charge, and have everything in order.  A direct contrast to how they feel inside.  It takes a tremendous toll on their mental, emotional, and physical energy to fight these demons.   However, every day is teaching them.  Every day is teaching them that they are a survivor.

12 Signs of Cancer In Dogs Owners Should Never Ignore

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Human beings are not the only species that must contend with the tragedy of cancer. Even clams and other tiny aquatic life can get cancer. Cancer in dogs and cats, our companion animals, hits home.

Cats develop cancer at a rate of about one in five. In dogs, this rate is even higher. According to the National Canine Cancer Foundation, 1 in 3 dogs will get cancer. Cancer is also the leading cause of death in dogs over age ten.

This article will list twelve signs of cancer in dogs that we should never ignore. To cap things off, we’ll discuss a simple yet comprehensive exam you can give your dog. If you see these signs in your pet, you may bring your dog to a vet for animal critical care services. Let’s do this!

12 Signs of Cancer in Dogs

cancer in dogs

1 – Collapsing and fainting

If your dog seems to collapse or faint, you should contact a veterinarian immediately. Per the website Vetsnow, “Acute [serious] collapse in dogs is a sudden loss of strength, that causes them to fall and be unable to rise.”

Symptoms that may precede collapse include diarrhea, disorientation, staggering, vomiting, and weakness. There are two classifications of collapse or faint in dogs: hand limp collapse or complete collapse. The former entails the dog falling to the ground in a sitting position; the latter is lying.

The dog should be examined by a vet immediately.

2 – Fatigue and exhaustion

Fatigue and exhaustion are two common, similar symptoms associated with cancer cachexia. Cachexia is a metabolic condition and a sign of potential cancer in dogs. Other potential co-symptoms of cachexia include impaired immune function, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

To rule out cachexia stemming from cancer, it is necessary to have the veterinarian conduct an examination. Once she has ruled out cancer, your vet may prescribe medication and suggest dietary changes.

Take your pet to the vet for an immediate examination.

3 – Incessant coughing

Dogs only rarely cough, so when they’re coughing regularly, there may be a cause for concern. Known causes of canine cough including the following:

  • respiratory tract infection
  • heartworm disease
  • collapsing trachea
  • laryngeal paralysis (partially-closed windpipe)
  • “reverse sneeze” (caused by irritation of the nasal passages)
  • chronic bronchitis
  • cancer (typically of the heart, lungs, and respiratory tract)

The dog should be examined by a vet immediately.

4 – Diarrhea or other bathroom changes

Occasional diarrhea is probably not something to worry about. However, persistent and worsening diarrhea is a common symptom of cancer in dogs and other illnesses.

Other related symptoms that may signal health troubles include difficulty peeing or having a bowel movement, blood in the urine or stool, and vomiting.

If your dog has had abnormal peeing or bowel movements for some time, it is recommended to visit a vet immediately.

5 – Eye or nasal discharge

A few things, including digestive tract disease and a swallowing disorder, may cause excessive secretion of nasal discharge. Excessive secretion of eye discharge includes middle ear nerve damage.

Per PetMD, eye or nasal discharge is more likely to be a sign of cancer in middle-sized to large dogs with elongated noses.

As the causes of an eye or nasal discharge tend to be serious, a visit to the veterinarian should be in order.

 6 – Mouth anomalies

Signs of possible oral cancer include swelling of the jawbone or gums. Bleeding, inflammation or darkening around orifices is also common. The most frequent symptom is swelling of the mouth’s gums, tongue, or roof.

Other possible symptoms of oral cancer in dogs include bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, facial swelling, lack of appetite, loss of teeth, panting, and swelling of the lymph nodes.

Your pet should be examined by a vet immediately.

7 – Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds in dogs can be a sign of a severe problem. The underlying cause is often epistaxis, resulting from the body’s inability to clot blood. An infection may also be present.

In older dogs, nosebleeds are commonly a sign of cancer. Tumors will often grow gradually in the sinuses over a long period.

An immediate trip to the vet is needed to run necessary tests to pinpoint the cause of nasal bleeding.

 8 – Pain or discomfort

Like humans, dogs with cancer may experience bodily (and emotional) pain. The pain most commonly associated with cancer is a general, achy feeling, especially in the area(s) where the tumor is present.

Specific types of cancer produce pain the particular areas. For example, bone cancer pain may be localized to certain body bones. A trip to the vet is highly recommended as canine pain can cause severe suffering and a sign of a potential disorder.

9 – Seizures

Seizures are caused by erratic electrical activity in the brain. In pets, as in humans, tumor growth on the brain may be the catalyst. Injury to the head, such as blunt force trauma – may also trigger seizures in dogs. Other conditions triggering seizures in dogs include kidney failure, liver disease, and blood toxicity.

However, the most common cause of seizure in dogs is idiopathic epilepsy, an inherited disorder for which the exact cause is unknown.

10 – Skin changes

Dogs also develop skin cancer, including malignant melanoma –common cancer found in humans. However, dogs often develop pigmented skin tumors, called melanocytosis, that are usually benign.

Other diseases may also cause skin changes. Your vet will order a laboratory examination to determine the exact cause. For this reason, the dog should be immediately seen by a vet.

11 – Weight loss

Cancer often alters canines’ metabolism, making your pet less likely to want to eat. However, decreased caloric intake isn’t the only cause. Cancer cachexia may also lead to accelerated fat loss despite taking adequate nutrients.

Gastrointestinal tumors are a type of cancer that may cause dogs to stop eating and lose weight.

To determine an exact cause, a veterinarian must administer a CT scan, CAT scan, or x-ray.

12 – Weight gain

On the opposite side of the weight spectrum, a sudden increase in weight is often a common sign of cancer in dogs. Weight gain with illness is particularly noticeable, as the dog will often eat less and still gain weight. Again, a trip to the vet – and imaging tests – are needed to determine the root cause.

How to Check for Cancer in Your Dog

The Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine at Oregon State University lists 11 areas of a dog’s body to examine in their “check your dog” campaign.  Notice that the check, which dog owners may administer themselves, progresses from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail for easy memorization.

The 11 areas to examine are as follows:

cancer in dogs

1 – Nose and muzzle:

Examine the dog’s nose for debris, excessive drainage, or lesions. Also, note whether the nose is wet or dry. The ‘wetness’ of a dog’s nose will typically progress from moist to dry throughout the day. Check the symmetry of the nose and note any visible differences between sides.

2 – Eyes:

Check for any abnormal eye discharge, noting any increase or decrease in amount. Pet ‘weeping’ caries from one pet to another. Examine the symmetry between the eyes, including active movement, color, discharge, and shape. Look at all parts of the eye, including the whites. Note any color change, including any increased graying or redness.

3 – Mouth:

Check your pet’s mouth for any (abnormally) bad breath, lesions, and swelling. Healthy canine gums are pink, and their teeth should be free of plaque and tartar. Examine the symmetry of the nose and note any differences between sides.

4 – Jawline:

Outside of the mouth, the dog’s jawline should maintain a constant texture along the entire length of the jaw. There should be no sensitivity to touch along the jaw area, and it should be the same on both sides of the mouth.

5 – Ears:

Check the ears for any irregular debris, odor, or swelling.

6 – Skin:

Brush the dog’s hair back and check the coat and skin. Check for excessive bumps, lumps, and flakiness. Also note any skin color changes, including any dark or red spots. Pay careful attention to both sides of the spinal cord.

7  – Torso:

Examine the dog’s muscle tone and weight. If the dog is overweight, try to rectify the issue. As in humans, a disproportionate amount of fat held at the core increases the risk of health problems.

8 – Legs:

Check for areas of the legs that are sensitive to the touch. Next, check the legs for skin abnormalities, including bumps, dryness, and swelling. Also, check the range of motion of the joints. All joints should be relatively flexible and free of discomfort.

9 – Feet:

Examine both the claws and pads of the feet. Between the toes, there should be no debris, and the area between one toe and the next should be symmetrical on all feet. Also, examine the nail bed for any discoloration or abnormal growth. Check the heat of the paws and note any abnormalities based on what is normal for your pet.

10 – Underbelly:

Thoroughly and gently examine the underbelly of the dog. Look out for any lumps and note any expressions of discomfort or pain. Check any bumps, lumps, and sensitive areas on the skin’s surface.

11 – Anus:

Examine the anus and check for cleanliness, color consistency, and symmetry.

dog quote

Final Thoughts on Checking for Cancer in Dogs

As with humans, early detection is the first step to treating cancer in dogs. Therefore, it is essential to regularly check your dog’s skin once a month to note what is normal for them. You can track any changes more accurately and seek additional help. So with that in mind, here are a few final tips:

  • Set a reminder to do a check once a month.
  • Conduct the exam when your dog is less prone to distraction.
  • Sketching out and copying a body chart may be a good idea. During the initial exam, if your dog is in good health, note each body part’s ‘normal’ conditions. In subsequent exams, refer to these notes for comparative purposes. This will give the vet a baseline should you even detect cancer in your dog.

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