9 Proven Benefits of Honey for Skin and Hair

Honey is often promoted as a healthier alternative to sugar, to be used in making pancakes, smoothies and what not. But did you know that honey is also great for skin and hair care?

It has been extensively used since the ancient times for various medical issues. It was used in the world wars by the soldiers to treat and disinfect wounds.

Today, raw and unfiltered honey is used not just for treating medical issues but also to complement your skin and hair care regime.

The manuka honey benefits are vast, due to its properties; it’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral, acidic nature and more make it a perfect ingredient for natural skin and hair care.

Benefits for Skin

1. Moisturizes your face

Honey can be used to make a moisturizing mask for your face. This will prevent your face from becoming dry and get rid of the flakiness of the skin. Using honey on your face also helps retain moisture in the skin, which is especially important in harsh weathers, when your face can get dry patches due to the atmosphere.

To use honey as a moisturizer, take 1 tablespoon of raw honey and apply it to your dry and clean skin. Leave it on for about 25 minutes and then wash it off with normal water.

Within a week of doing this daily, you will notice a smooth and soft skin on your face that does not dry out or have flaky skin.

2. Removes blemishes and dark spots

Everyone, at some point in their lives, has to deal with the presence of dark spots, blemishes and other scars on their face. You probably had to deal with it too.

Honey contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties making it beneficial in dealing with skin problems. It is also acidic in nature which helps deal with the scars, blemishes and dark spots.

To use honey for scars, mix 1 teaspoon of raw honey with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply it on the spots by gently massaging for 1 – 2 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water. Do it daily until the scars go away.

3. Works as a face wash/cleanser

Honey doubles up as a great face wash, providing your skin with all kinds of beneficial nutrients as well as hydration.

Honey contains antibacterial, pro-biotic, nourishing and hydrating properties. It makes for an all natural skin care, eliminating any use of chemicals.

To use honey as a face wash, wet your face and then take a dollop of honey and spread it all over your face. After leaving it on for a 1 minute or 2, wash it off with water.

The honey will rinse off with water and leave your skin feeling extremely soft and smooth. It will also clean your pores leaving you less prone to acne or pimples.

4. Combats skin infections

Honey has antimicrobial properties like antibacterial, antifungal as well antiseptic properties. These enable honey to fight off skin infections.

Honey can be used to treat a number of skin diseases like rashes, psoriasis, perioral dermatitis, itchiness, warts etc. Its antimicrobial properties allow honey to eliminate the bacteria or the virus causing the infection.

To use honey on skin infections, take a cotton ball and dip it in Manuka or raw honey. Apply it on the affected area liberally. Leave it on for some time and then wash it off with water.

Do it daily until the infection is resolved. Depending on the infection, it can take anywhere from 1 week to 1 month for the results to show.

5. Restores sunburnt skin

Honey, when mixed with aloe vera, can provide treatment to your sunburnt skin. Aloe vera is known for its vast benefits for the skin. When mixed with another skin beneficial substance like honey, the effects are unfathomable.

Honey provides hydration and moisture to the deep layers of the skin. Aloe vera is an astringent that helps calm the burning skin. Both substances contain anti-inflammatory and healing properties, thereby aiding in recovery.

Mix one part raw or unfiltered honey with two parts fresh aloe vera gel scooped out from the aloe vera leaf. Apply this mixture on the affected area twice a day for about a week or so.

Benefits for Hair

1. Conditions your hair naturally

Due to its hydrating properties and ability to moisturize, honey works as a great natural substance to use as a conditioner for your hair.

The enzymes present in honey, when mixed with coconut oil give a shine and luster to dry and dull hair. While honey provides moisture, coconut oil is responsible for giving off the shiny look.

To make this natural conditioner, take 1 tablespoon of raw honey and mix it with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Apply it to wet hair, starting from the bottom and working up to the top. Leave it on for 20 – 30 minutes and then wash your hair.

Doing it once or twice a week will help you condition your hair naturally and make them smooth and shiny.

2. Highlights your hair

Hair highlights look absolutely fabulous but going to the parlor for it means you are risking putting dangerous and strong chemicals in your hair.

These chemicals can weaken your hair and lead to thin hair that break and fall easily. A more natural alternative would be using honey to highlight your hair.

Honey contains enzymes that gradually lighten your hair. Take 3 tablespoons of honey and mix with 2 tablespoons of water. Apply to damp hair and wash after 1 hour. Do it weekly do get desired results.

3. Combats hair fall

Hair catches a lot of dirt and microbes as you go around the day, leaving it open. This makes your scalp a breeding ground for microbes that can weaken your hair roots, causing your hair to fall. Honey contains potent antimicrobial properties that can eliminate these organisms and provide nourishment to the roots to fight hair fall.

Simply massage your scalp with pure honey every week, washing it after an hour or so. Eventually, you will get stronger hair without any chemical treatments.

4. Gets rid of dandruff

Dandruff is a messy business and if you suffer from it, you will know how it can get everywhere – clothes, pillows, bed sheets etc

Dandruff can also dry out your scalp or make it extremely oily. It can also cause hair fall. Honey can help you out here. It can take care of dandruff, thereby reducing oiliness/dryness and also reducing hair fall.

To use this remedy, take 1 tablespoon of honey and mix it with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Apply this on the scalp by gently massaging it. Do it twice a week for a month and you will notice visibly less dandruff on your scalp.

Want A New Career After The Playground Is Finished?

If you are in the situation where your children are all growing up and leaving home, you might be wondering what you will do now they are through the stages of playing in the playground. There are options for you to find a job, but many women that have spent years at home caring for the family have no up to date skills that are relevant to today’s types of employment. The answer could be to complete an online master’s degree because you can study while the children are at school or in bed. You could be prepared and have a qualification that will help you find a fulfilling career after the playground years have finished.

Find Your Passion

Your online master’s degree can be a pleasure to complete if you choose a subject you are passionate about. Many mothers have the natural instinct to help people, which is why some choose to complete a master of public administration (MPA). Completing this course with Ohio University Online will teach you the skills to address public issues in an effective and efficient manner, with an expert understanding of public administration. You will study the management of financial and human resources and learn to bypass red tape in ways that are effective in whatever area of public administration you work in.

The Ohio University MPA Online can be completed in less than two years, giving you plenty of time to prepare yourself for the day you want to find meaningful employment.

Making Them Proud

We all like to think our children are proud to say we are their mum. But they can become even more so when they see that you are doing a worthwhile job. As they grow and leave for home, college or university, they will be taking with them the knowledge that their mom is helping other people, an example that is always good to pass on. Children do not always show their feelings or say how proud they are for what you have achieved, but most of them appreciate the fact that, like them, you have spent the last couple of years studying for exams, and that puts them in awe of you.

Do It For Yourself

At the end of the day though, it really does not matter what your children or anyone else thinks, you should do this for yourself. If you want to return to work and study for an online masters degree to help you in your chosen career, look into the courses you are interested in. As you can complete them online, you do not have to live by the faculty; you could be in another state even. Ohio University has a large range to choose from, not just the master of public administration degree.

To take this suggestion forward, you do need to have an internet connection and either a digital device or PC, and there are not many homes without those these days.

Simple Secrets For Boosting Your Confidence

Believe it or not, but the amount of confidence you have also affects your health and happiness. A lack of confidence will weigh you down mentally, and eventually you’ll find yourself not experiencing as much joy as you once did in the past. It can also strain any relationships and friendships you have.

By boosting your confidence you’ll not only improve your mental outlook, but you’ll also take better care of yourself too. However, finding the secret remedy to feeling better isn’t as easy as perceived. It can take a lot of time and dedication to improve your confidence, especially if you suffer from a mental health issue. If you’re looking for ways to boost your confidence, consider the following:

Make Time for Daily Exercise

Exercise is not only an excellent habit for maintaining your weight and figure, but it also helps you clear your head and reduce stress. Make time for daily exercise and notice how your mood lifts and you don’t feel as worried about the days ahead. Your clothes will begin to fit better and you’ll like who you see when you look in the mirror. Working out is a great opportunity for you to forget your cares and focus on burning calories and getting stronger as a person both mentally and physically.

Find Beauty Solutions that Work for you

It’s not all about how you look, but not feeling comfortable with yourself will take a toll on you. That’s why it’s important to find beauty solutions that work for you and help rid problems that are bothering you or you find embarrassing. For example, use skin care products to remove blemishes and scalp treatment for hair growth to grow back thicker, fuller hair you can be proud of. All it takes is you being proactive and willing to invest your money in a few items that will help boost your confidence and get you feeling more like yourself. If you have a little more money to spend and are comfortable with the idea, you could also consider cosmetic surgical procedures, such as a mommy makeover. This surgery combines breast lifts and tummy tucks for a drastic improvement in how you feel about your body.

Use Meditation to Overcome Fears

Your mind is very powerful, and one reason you may not be experiencing very much confidence is because you’re fearful of the future. Everyone has fears, but you can’t let them take over and debilitate you from going after your dreams. Use meditation to overcome your fears and keep them in check. This way you’ll slowly start to realize you’re capable of recognizing them when they appear, and challenge them one by one. You’ll have more confidence in yourself when you stop letting your fears dictate your every move.

Talk about your Problems

Being vulnerable is essential to working through hardships and finding the confidence within yourself to keep moving forward with purpose. It’s important to open up to others like your family members or a professional therapist and get your worries off your chest. You’ll start to

notice that all along you were being held back by your thoughts, which mostly weren’t even true facts, but assumptions and beliefs. You’ll start to see you’re not alone and that you have a lot of the same concerns and fears as everyone else.

It’s never too late to work on yourself and boost your confidence. Use these tips to point you in the right direction and get started on your journey to becoming a better you. This is time well spent, so never feel guilty for working on improving yourself.

5 Ingredients that Should Never Be in Your Toothpaste

If you’re like most consumers who buy toothpaste, chances are you base your purchase off of the price and of course, the promised perks of that specific brand. Want whiter teeth? You likely purchase toothpaste with tooth whitening action. Preventing future cavities? There’s anti-cavity toothpaste for that.

While it’s important to buy toothpaste that cleans and protects your teeth, what most people don’t take into consideration are the ingredients. Just as you look at the ingredients in the food you eat and maybe even those used in skincare products, it’s just as important to know what’s in your toothpaste.

Why Ingredients Matter

You may not think that a small dollop of toothpaste a few times a day can be harmful, but common ingredients can be quite dangerous. The fact is that the mouth and gums are two of the most absorbent parts of the body. So when you’re brushing, you may be unknowingly introducing harmful chemicals into your mouth that eventually make their way throughout your body.

This is why it’s crucial to know what ingredients are used in your toothpaste. The problem is that many of today’s most well-known brands in the dental care industry use ingredients that have proven to be harmful. In fact, some of these ingredients are banned in other countries!

To best protect your teeth, mouth, and your overall health, you of course need to use nothing but the best natural toothpaste. Here are 5 ingredients to avoid.

1. Triclosan

We all know that toothpaste should be able to protect against plaque and gingivitis. One of the most commonly used ingredients to ward off bacteria in the mouth is triclosan. While the ingredient has proven to be highly effective in fighting against plaque and gingivitis, it may pose all sorts of health risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, consumers should avoid products that contain triclosan as the ingredient has been linked to:

● Development of antibiotic-resistant germs

● Endocrine (hormone) disruption

● Potential damage to immune system

The good news is that there are plenty of healthy and all-natural ways to reduce the amount of plaque that builds up on your teeth. Craving a sweet crunch? Eat an apple after a meal to minimize plaque build-up. Other options include brushing with coconut oil or aloe vera and eating strawberries.

2. Fluoride

For years now, fluoride has been touted as the go-to answer for treating and preventing tooth decay. A study conducted in 2010 found that the protective layer formed by fluoride is only six nanometers thick. We’re no math geniuses but we can tell you this is really, really thin!

This means that the heralded protective nature of fluoride is much less than once thought.

Another risk to be aware of is fluoride ingestion. This can cause health issues in children, as youngsters tend to swallow a lot of the toothpaste that they put in their mouth. When ingested, fluoride can cause problems with enzymes as well as endocrine dysfunction.

3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and other surfactants are common ingredients in most toothpaste. Surfactants make toothpaste foamy but are also responsible for making everything you eat taste extremely bitter after brushing your teeth. This is because SLS breaks up phospholipids on the tongue which increases bitter tastes.

Aside from ruining your next meal, SLS has also been linked to canker sores and skin irritation. SLS is a registered insecticide which means it’s toxic to fish, marine life, and insects. Knowing this, does this sound like an ingredient you’d want to put into your body a few times a day? Probably not!

4. Diethanolamine (DEA)

Diethanolamine (DEA) is another product that gives toothpaste its foaming action. Similar to SLS, DEA has also been linked to hormone disruption. EPA-conducted studies have also found that repeated oral exposure to DEA in animals effects the kidneys, liver, blood, and the central nervous system.

5. Propylene Glycol

You wouldn’t knowingly brush your teeth with an ingredient that is used in enamels, paints, or antifreeze, would you? But, you’re doing just that if your toothpaste contains propylene glycol. This ingredient acts as a surfactant and humectant.

While we all brush to get the cleanest teeth possible, using toothpaste with glycerin poses all sorts of risks. For one, the ingredient is known to irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Glycerin has also been linked to potential organ toxicity.

Conclusion

Take the time to spend an extra minute or two in the dental care aisle to see what’s really in your toothpaste. Be sure to avoid the ingredients above to protect not only your teeth, but your health as well.

Top 5 Bakeries to Order Birthday Cakes

Do you need to order a special birthday cake, but aren’t sure of which bakeries to order birthday cakes from? Don’t fret, we’ve made it a little easier for you by putting together a list of top 5 bakeries that ship nationwide. It doesn’t get much easier than this. Put down your mixing bowl, and let one of these cake pros do the work for you.

  1. Publix

The bakers at Publix are sure to meet your birthday cake need. They have a wide selection of shapes and sizes such as bunt cakes, multi-tiered cakes, cake balls, heart shaped cakes, and more. Take a look at all the birthday cake options and the Publix cakes prices! Not only are their prices competitive, but the shipping options are great as well.

2.  Bake Me A Wish

This bakery is sure to have a cake style for you. They have a large selection of yummy gourmet cakes from Black and White Mousse Cake to Golden Fudge Celebration Cake. Or if you prefer a cheesecake instead, Bake Me A Wish has a few good-looking cheesecakes to choose from as well! Overnight shipping is available on some styles and they will even include a free Happy Birthday card to your order.

3. From You Flowers

This bakery has some of the impressive birthday cakes to choose from. It is more of a one stop shop. From flowers to gifts to cakes, this may be one of the easiest bakeries to order birthday cakes from. As you may have guessed from their name, they also have fancy flower

designed cakes and even an Ultimate Candy Birthday Cake! If you like think out of the box designs, From You Flowers may be right up your alley. They are sure to wow you with their same day shipping, competitive pricing, and creative designs.

4. Goldbely

These cakes are a must see. The bakery really knows how to make an impression with a cake. From cookie cake to rum cake, to halva cake, to pound cake, to sour cream cake, to red velvet cake, and so much more! Goldbely even has a monthly cake subscription that lets you receive hand selected cakes on a monthly basis if you chose to do so! How awesome is that?! You’ll definitely want to make sure you take a look at their cakes. We are sure you will not be disappointed.

5. Shari’s Berries

A must-see. If you like sweets like chocolate, mousse, or tiramisu, this is the bakery for you. Their cakes are even Certified Kosher Dairy. You can also have a Happy Birthday plaque added on the cake if you wanted to. With so many good-looking options to choose from, it may be hard to pick just one!

These are just a few of the amazing bakeries to order birthday cakes from. Ordering birthday cakes and baked goods online is a time saver as well as a stress reducer. With so many great options available, why not give one of these top 5 picks a try? Enjoy the party!

5 Items of Clothing Every Woman Should Own

There are certain basic items that are the basis of a good wardrobe. They are the mark of a stylish woman who knows what she wants. These must-have pieces are the staples that last from one season to the next. They go well with almost anything in your wardrobe and compliment the trendy pieces that you decide to splash on.

Your wardrobe basics are a true investment that will keep you looking great throughout the year, no matter what the occasion is. These interchangeable pieces for the basis for your daily style, making it much easier for you to get ready every morning.

You don’t have to pack your closet with the trendiest clothes, shoes, and accessories to be stylish. Instead, focus on building it up with classic staples that will make you look gorgeous every time. Here are 5 items of clothing that you should have:

  1. A Great Pair of Jeans

Jeans are one of the most frustrating pieces of clothing to get right. It takes a lot of time and effort to find the perfectly cut pair that will hug all the right places. You also need jeans that have the right wash and the perfect amount of stretch for your needs. But when you do find the pair that makes you look like a million bucks, you’ll just look in the mirror and know. Even if they are expensive, a great pair of jeans is a classic staple that will serve you for a long time without giving out.

  1. The Right Support

Look for a pretty matching underwear set that lifts, separates, and offers support in all the right places. While not many people will see it, a pretty underwear set will leave you feeling confident and beautiful.

This also extends to your undergarment support. Spanx are great, but nothing beats these classic steel boned corsets. Women have been using these corsets for hundreds of years to get a more defined hourglass figure. There’s a reason why their popularity has endured for so long! Make sure you have one – or more! – steel boned corsets in your closet to raise your overall style game.

  1. A White T-Shirt

The white tee is one of the most classic and versatile clothing pieces that you can own. You can pair it with some jeans, leggings, suit trousers, or a skirt. You can even layer it under a cami top or slip dress. Whatever the case, the perfect white tee is a gift that keeps on giving.

  1. Black Leggings

Every woman should have at least one pair of black leggings in their closet. This clothing item can serve your whole collection endlessly. You can dress it up for a night out, or go for a more casual look when you’re lounging around the house.

Just make sure to look for a pair that is made of structured fabric that offers stretch and support. They will be more flattering that way. Also, keep it classic and steer away from sporty logos for a simple but flattering day-to-day look.

  1. A Leather Jacket

A soft leather jacket is a timeless piece that you can wear for years. It’s also pretty versatile. You can pair it with jeans or leggings for a casual look, or skirts and dresses when you’re feeling flirty. You can even go one size up from your normal fit to give you extra room to layer knits during the cold season.

5 Interesting Ideas To Prepare Your Home For Spring

 

When it comes to carrying out home maintenance chores, you might call yourself a clean freak. However, there comes a time when the corner shelves deserve to be dusted but didn’t get much of your attention in the winter months. Perhaps, the winter blues hadn’t let you move a step ahead.

But now, it’s that time of the year when you should get moving and spread the spring vibes!

Undeniably, the best place to welcome the cheerfulness of the season is your own home. Preparing it for spring isn’t only refreshing, it helps you maintain your house throughout the warmer months of the year.

Ready to begin?

Let’s explore each idea that helps freshen up your home for spring.

  1. Deep Clean The Entire House

Don’t feel like scrubbing the floor in those dark winter months? If you’re one of those who couldn’t perform much of the cleaning chores because you were desperately waiting for the sunshine, let’s admit this: your house needs a deep cleaning.

So, before you head out to buy the bright-hued cushions you saw online, make sure the living room is clean enough to welcome these accessories. Start off by cleaning the couch.

If your living room is filled with wooden furniture, it’s the right time to get rid of termites. However, the termites may not be visible to you. Therefore, it’s wise to consult Delsea Termite & Pest Control so they can spot them right away.

2. Spruce Up The Home Décor

What could be the best season to add the freshness of colors to your home? Spring, of course. Though the answer is self-explanatory, you should choose the perfect hues wisely. After all, you’re giving a warm welcome to spring.

Begin by making little changes to the kids’ room. Choose tangerine as it’s one of the coolest colors for spring. However, don’t assume tangerine should be splashed throughout each wall of the kids’ room. To create a balance, repaint only a single wall with tangerine (instead of all the walls). Align the theme by adding an orange storage cube, a cute lamp, or an area rug.

Once the kids’ room is done, it’s time to make changes to your bedroom. This doesn’t require you to invest in an all-new furniture, though. Just replace the two things and you’re all done with the spring makeover of your bedroom: the curtains and the bed sheet!

3. Check Your HVAC System Before Turning It On

Debris and dust accumulated within the filter may affect the functionality of the HVAC system. To expect efficient cooling, replace the filter as you start the AC unit after several months. If it doesn’t perform as required even after changing the filters, a detailed inspection of ductwork leaks is required. To make it a breeze, get help from the HVAC Contractors.  

4. Polish the Fireplace

In winters, sitting in front of the open fire made you feel warm and comfortable. Now that the usage is over, it still requires your attention. Call the chimney sweep so you can get rid of the ash. Next, use a wax-based black graphite polish to renew the grate.

5. Pressure-Wash The Patio

Do you often dream about inviting friends over for outdoor tea parties, summer barbeques, and tantalizing feasts – all arranged in your garden?

If yes, the first thing to bring back in shape is the patio and paved areas as bacteria and moisture can cause the buildup of algae and moss. To clean the paving, try pressure washing. Though this is a popular method to bring back the shine of the patio, you should use it with caution – especially if you’re a first-timer.

If used correctly, the high-pressure water will clean the surface within a few seconds while removing the dirt. As you begin pressure washing, try it at the corner paving. Once you’re used to handling the pressure washer, you can easily clean the entire patio with it.

 

The Health Benefits of Reading

1. Reduce stress

People lead busy lives these days and have to find ways to unwind as a result. While some turn to yoga and others to a happy hour drink, one of the most effective ways to de-stress is to spend some time reading a good book. Reading first and foremost requires you to slow down and find some quiet alone time. This allows your mind to calm down and focus on one thing rather than all the stresses that occupy it throughout the day. The story then allows you to escape to a different world and completely forget your problems for a while. This combination is a great way to relax and it can be done from anywhere.

2. Improves memory

Reading stimulates the brain and can help improve memory. The Fisher Centre for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation discovered that reading books on a regular basis can help stem the decline of dementia by maintaining and building brain cells and connections between brain cells. When reading, people also familiarize themselves with the characters and setting, where their memory aids them in following the storyline as the plot develops.

3. Broadens thinking

While this may seem obvious, many people don’t realize how much they can gain from simply reading. It doesn’t even have to be non-fiction or a textbook, even reading fiction can broaden your perspective and understanding of the world through its various themes, characters and references. Reading books can help us grow by giving us different insights and perspectives that can help us better understand the world.

4. Helps you stay sharp

A popular topic that many of us come across regularly is the importance of keeping the brain active as it ages. Experts emphasize this because a brain that challenges itself stays sharper longer. Puzzles and learning new languages are always among the first things methods recommended, but reading is equally effective and often far more accessible. It does this because of the new things that reading exposes and teaches. Whenever you learn something new, the brain connects new neural pathways within itself, keeping it active and sharp. This is the best thing you can do for your mind at any age, so don’t wait for it when you’re older.

5. Increases empathy

Reading fiction has been shown to increase the emotional intelligence of the readers. According to the ALAN review, people who read the first chapter of a novel depicted higher levels of empathy a week later (people who read the news actually decreased in empathy). Especially with fiction and memoirs, readers can empathize with the main characters as they follow their journey. That being said, articles and news stories are still worthwhile. Their effects on the reader differ from that of fiction, but this just once again highlights the impact reading can have.

6. Increases longevity

Not only is reading good for your brain but according to a study at Yale University’s School of Public Health, reading can actually help you live a longer life. They studied over 2300 Americans over the age of 50 and found that book readers tended to live almost 2 years longer than non-book readers. A lot of this has to do with the cognitive benefits we mentioned previously, like the neural pathways that reading can forge. Reading truly is one of the best habits and skills that you can pick up. Not to mention, it is one of the easiest activities to start thanks to the number of communities and online bookstores available.

Make reading a daily habit

Reading is one of the best things that you can do for yourself. It should be a part of your self care along with healthy eating and exercise because of its overall health benefits. From a source of entertainment and relaxation to strengthening your brain and extending your life, you have every reason to read. So next time you see a book sale, be sure to pop by and see what adventure you can find!

10 Questions to Ask Your Family Doctor

It’s not uncommon for many individuals and families to keep a family doctor for several years. These doctors can go a long way towards building rapport and assisting in your family’s health, but even with that added trust, knowing what questions to ask during a visit can be difficult.

It’s normal to be concerned for your family’s health. Your doctor is, too. So, if you’re wondering how to best utilize the experiences and services your doctor offers, consider these 10 questions to ask when meeting with your family doctor:

1. What changes should I make to my diet?

Different voices throughout the Internet and blogosphere can have many differing opinions about what is and is not acceptable to eat. But nobody will know the answer to this question better than your doctor.

Your family doctor is often chosen by you in order to ensure you get the care you need. Given time, your doctor will know what you need to do to improve your health, and why. Take the time to update your doctor on your current diet, be honest and direct, and he or she will be able to recommend a dietary plan that’s sure to improve your general health.

2. Where can I find credible health information at home?

There’s often a great difficulty in finding reputable and peer-reviewed sources for your health online. It can seem that, for every one article praising a product or practice, there are ten others condemning the suggestion. It can be difficult to know what’s right from wrong.

Instead of blindly searching for answers, talk to your doctor about which websites provide comprehensive and updated health information that you can seek out when you’re not in his or her office.

3. What do these symptoms mean?

Don’t make the mistake of assuming your doctor is a mind-reader. If you’re feeling strange, or have new symptoms on top of pre-existing conditions, do not hesitate to inform your doctor and ask what these new symptoms may mean.

Physicians can only help you based on what they know, so give them every piece of information you can to ensure proper and effective treatment.

4. What can I do to improve my health?

Health is far more than the food you eat.

Different bodies require different strategies to keep them performing well, so it is best to ask your doctor about how you can be proactive and involved in the continued health of your body.

You may be asked to cut certain vices from your life, or simply told to exercise more. Either way, you can leave with further knowledge to ensure continued vibrancy and success.

5. How can I save money on these prescriptions?

Doctors know that not all of their patients can afford the medication that they prescribe. Perhaps what you’re taking is available in generic or over-the-counter form, or simply unnecessary to continue at the current dosage.

If you find yourself struggling to pay for medication, or simply want to explore options to lower your financial burden, consider searching online for discounts on Cialis and other commonly prescribed medications. You may find easy ways to save big on the health products you need.

You doctor might even suggest working with a pharmacy that delivers like Medly Pharmacy. Having the ability to pay before you pick up or getting your prescriptions delivered are both great ways to save time and ease the stress of medication.

6. Is this medication necessary?

Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor if the medication and prescriptions you currently have remain necessary for your continued health. Be careful not to imply that your doctor doesn’t know what they’re doing, but rather make sure that what you’re putting in your body serves to help you, not hurt you.

Be sure to follow the advice given and remain aware of what exactly your prescriptions are meant to do.

7. What are my options for treatment?

While doctors try to be exhaustive and transparent when presenting options to you, many times they can be overworked, or simply present a singular option as fact.

If you’ve been presented with new medication or uncovered a new disease, make sure that your doctor goes over every possibility available to you. Knowing all of your options will help you and your doctor sort out the best plan for you.

8. How often do I need to check in with you?

Going to the doctor is rarely fun, but avoiding the office completely can have disastrous repercussions. Your provider can assist you with a recommended schedule, but ask your doctor directly about how often you need to come by and get checked up.

What’s recommended more or less often than how frequently your doctor would like to see you.

9. Can I treat this at home?

Let’s face it—going to the doctor’s office can be an expensive affair, and home treatment is often a more popular option than forking out the cash to see a professional.

If you and your family face common ailments or seasonal allergies, ask your doctor what can be treated at home, and what would require a visit and consultation from professionals.

And as always—if you feel as if something is off with your body, or you see unusual side effects in yourself or in others, consult with a doctor immediately.

10. How does this affect my future?

Doctors work in the long-term to ensure the continued and constant health of our bodies. Remember to think in similar terms, and ask your doctor about what your medication means for your future, and ways you that can be proactive to improve that future.

Ultimately, doctors work to ensure that there’s nothing to uncover when seeing their patients for a routine check up. They don’t want to see further issues. Let’s help them keep it that way.

Conclusion

The cold halls of a hospital can be intimidating, but we hope that these questions can eliminate that fear and help guide you towards a comprehensive plan for your next visit to the family doctor.

By making sure your medication is affordable and necessary, your diet is in check, and your future is thought of, you can work with your doctor to make sure you and your family get the best service possible.

What was the result of your last checkup? Did your doctor prescribe any new medications or treatments? If so, what were they, and how have they affected your quality of life.

What to Expect When Remodeling or Repairing Parts of a Home

Home renovations can be a major hassle. Depending on the size of the project, they can completely disrupt your life and your routine. Not to mention the ensuing headaches that are associated with all of that hammering. Being prepared for these disruptions is your best bet for surviving your home improvement project. Here are some of the things that you can expect with certain home remodels.

A kitchen remodel is one of the most common home improvement projects that homeowners embark on for improving their home. As with any project, the scope will dictate the timeframe for completion. The typical kitchen remodeling process could take a months depending on the specifics. Oftentimes homeowners are told the electrical and the plumbing may need to be redone. There may even be structural issues that have to be addressed. However, at Remodel Works, their team of experts ensures that your home renovation project is completed in a timely manner and assures that the process will run smoothly.

In order to be prepared to cope with a kitchen renovation, consider setting aside another area in your home to serve as a temporary kitchen. The ideal location would be somewhere that also has a sink. You may be able to use a friend’s or neighbor’s kitchen to help with some of the meal preparation. Purchase meals that are easy to prepare. You may want to invest in microwave ready meals for the duration of your kitchen renovation.

Getting a roof repaired or opting for an entirely new roof doesn’t tend to disrupt your life too much. Most of the work will be occurring outside of your home. There are instances

in which it can become more intrusive. If dry rot or structural issues are noted, the project may take longer to complete. The typical roof replacement can be done in a few days to a couple of weeks. In order to prepare, you might want to bring in potted plants and cover other sensitive plants. There may end up being some collateral damage to your landscaping. Most roofing companies are sensitive to the needs of the homeowner. Voice any concerns that you have so that they can take the appropriate measures.

The amount of time that it will take to get a finished basement depends on the scope of the project. If your basement is already in relatively good condition, it will take less time than if you have to start from scratch. Another factor to consider is whether you’re hiring a professional or doing the work yourself. In general, projects that you take on yourself will take two to three times longer, depending on your skill level. The typical length of time for a professional to frame, drywall, paint, and complete all of the finishes is four to six months. For larger projects that involve the extraction of dirt and structural concerns, it can be closer to a year for completion. To be prepared, remove all items that are currently in your basement. If the laundry was located there, consider temporarily relocating your machines to another area. This can save you from the hassle of having to cart your dirty clothes to a laundromat.

As with any renovation project, set the scope and the budget prior to beginning. This can save you a lot of hassle later on down the line. Be prepared for the worst case scenario so that you can take measures to cope.