Breast feeding is a hot topic among parents. And there are numerous reasons why it is such a positive action to do for your child - and for yourself as a mother. Some of those reasons are emotional. For example, it is form of bonding. It helps mother and child to forge a stronger connection. Babies love to be warm and snuggled up to their mother's it is an instinctive safe spot that they need to be near especially during the first few months (or years) of their lives.
Of course, breastfeeding your new born is also good for your budget. Baby formula is expensive. And there are many different brands, making it difficult to choose the best one for your little one. Breast milk is free. The human body makes it naturally. Some women worry that they aren't producing enough, especially during the first few days following birth. But that is usually an unfounded fear. This is due to the fact that the body is producing colostrum, a very nutrient rich liquid for infants. And that is generally all the baby needs at first. Another bonus is that it digests easily, which may not be the case for many of the formulas that are on the market. Many new borns have very sensitive stomachs.
Yet another reason breastfeeding is a good idea is due to the fact that it can strengthen the immune system of your child naturally. The milk contains antibodies that are passed along, along with much needed vitamins and minerals that help support brain growth, as well as physical growth. Babies don't have much of an immune system when they are born so they are very susceptible to all types of illnesses. Breast milk can help protect them from many types of potential viral process and bacteria that can make them sick.
This activity is also good for helping mothers lose weight. It actually helps the body to burn more calories, therefore helping mom to lose much of the weight more quickly than if breastfeeding wasn't done. And since many new moms are concerned with that, it is definitely a bonus to know that doing good for your baby is also helping you out as well.
So if you are ready to save money, improve your baby's immune system and strengthen the bond between you, give breast feeding a try.
A blog with information to help inspire action that will improve health.
Anxiety Occurring Frequently
If you are one of the millions of people who experience anxiety, you should know that you are not alone. According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, approximately 18% of U.S population struggles with this condition. It is very real and can be extremely uncomfortable. It can range from mild symptoms of generalized unease to completely debilitating symptoms that can interfere with daily life.
There are a multitude of reasons that people have anxiety about. Some of those include things such as children s education costs and how they are going to pay for college, mortgage or other financial woes, fear of joblessness, problems with a spouse - the list goes on and on. Fear of failure and fear that any success they may have will be taken away are two more common themes. Some people just have feelings of impeding doom and aren't sure why but know that it affects them to the point that their lives are being affected in a negative way.
Unfortunately, one of the ways this doom plays itself out is during panic attacks. Some times there is a specific reason for these attacks, other times there may be no apparent reason. The panic feelings may lead to symptoms such as a pounding heart or rapid heart rate, fear of losing control, lightheadedness, and nausea. Some people also start sweating profusely or have hot or cold flashes.
If you suffer from anxiety attacks and are worried for your mental health, rest assured that there is help available. This is true even if you have them on a regular basis. One of the options might be to avoid certain social situations that you know might be triggers, or at the very least try to figure out what causes the trigger to occur. Other ways to overcome this type of disorder is to speak with your doctor about it. Treatments such as medications known as beta-blockers. They can help control some of the symptoms of an anxiety attack. Some of them have side effects that may affect your ability to drive, or make you drowsy, so it may take a few changes to get the medications that will work for you. Be patient and don't worry, the process may take some time.
Trying to mask the problem by not seeking treatment is unhealthy. You may need support in the form of psychotherapy. Doing so may help you get to the root cause of the problem, something that might be able to eliminate the negative feelings altogether.
There are a multitude of reasons that people have anxiety about. Some of those include things such as children s education costs and how they are going to pay for college, mortgage or other financial woes, fear of joblessness, problems with a spouse - the list goes on and on. Fear of failure and fear that any success they may have will be taken away are two more common themes. Some people just have feelings of impeding doom and aren't sure why but know that it affects them to the point that their lives are being affected in a negative way.
Unfortunately, one of the ways this doom plays itself out is during panic attacks. Some times there is a specific reason for these attacks, other times there may be no apparent reason. The panic feelings may lead to symptoms such as a pounding heart or rapid heart rate, fear of losing control, lightheadedness, and nausea. Some people also start sweating profusely or have hot or cold flashes.
If you suffer from anxiety attacks and are worried for your mental health, rest assured that there is help available. This is true even if you have them on a regular basis. One of the options might be to avoid certain social situations that you know might be triggers, or at the very least try to figure out what causes the trigger to occur. Other ways to overcome this type of disorder is to speak with your doctor about it. Treatments such as medications known as beta-blockers. They can help control some of the symptoms of an anxiety attack. Some of them have side effects that may affect your ability to drive, or make you drowsy, so it may take a few changes to get the medications that will work for you. Be patient and don't worry, the process may take some time.
Trying to mask the problem by not seeking treatment is unhealthy. You may need support in the form of psychotherapy. Doing so may help you get to the root cause of the problem, something that might be able to eliminate the negative feelings altogether.
Maintaining Your Car
Maintaining your car is a responsibility that shouldn't be overlooked. After all, the your safety, the safety of your passengers, as well as other drivers on the road is something that should be a top priority. It can help you avoid a car accident or keep you from getting stranded on the side of the road. There are some basic steps that should be taken that are both simple yet very effective.
Getting (and keeping) your car weather ready is a good first step. This means making sure you have the proper tires and other equipment. For example, do you live in an area that gets inches and inches of snow throughout the winter months? You might need to invest in some type of snow tires or chains to minimize your risk of sliding on the road or getting into an accident.
Other common items that need regular maintenance include window wipers and regular oil changes. Not getting your oil changed can wreak serious havoc on your engine. Get your brakes checked regularly and replace them as needed. Transmission maintenance is another smart option, because regular checks in that area can help you avoid long term costs down the road. Also, keep your mirrors in top condition. Don't drive with cracked or missing mirrors that don't allow you to see the road and other cars around you. By doing regular car maintenance you are doing your part by keeping everyone else safe on the road.
Following the speed limit and other rules of the road go a long way toward helping you be the best driver possible. Know your limits - don't be a distracted driver. Put the phone down while behind the wheel and keep your eyes on the road. If you need to wear glasses to see better, do so. This is especially important at night or in rainy conditions when visibility is poor already. And of course, buckle up. Make everyone else in the vehicle do the same. Statistics show that the amount of serious injuries and death decreases as seat belt usage increases. Following these simple safety guidelines can help you as you navigate the roads.
Getting (and keeping) your car weather ready is a good first step. This means making sure you have the proper tires and other equipment. For example, do you live in an area that gets inches and inches of snow throughout the winter months? You might need to invest in some type of snow tires or chains to minimize your risk of sliding on the road or getting into an accident.
Other common items that need regular maintenance include window wipers and regular oil changes. Not getting your oil changed can wreak serious havoc on your engine. Get your brakes checked regularly and replace them as needed. Transmission maintenance is another smart option, because regular checks in that area can help you avoid long term costs down the road. Also, keep your mirrors in top condition. Don't drive with cracked or missing mirrors that don't allow you to see the road and other cars around you. By doing regular car maintenance you are doing your part by keeping everyone else safe on the road.
Following the speed limit and other rules of the road go a long way toward helping you be the best driver possible. Know your limits - don't be a distracted driver. Put the phone down while behind the wheel and keep your eyes on the road. If you need to wear glasses to see better, do so. This is especially important at night or in rainy conditions when visibility is poor already. And of course, buckle up. Make everyone else in the vehicle do the same. Statistics show that the amount of serious injuries and death decreases as seat belt usage increases. Following these simple safety guidelines can help you as you navigate the roads.
Our Best Effort to Stay Healthy When We Travel
If you are going outside of the United States to a foreign country, it is always a good idea to make sure your vaccines are up to date. Keep in mind that not all countries have access to the healthcare that we have. Therefore, many of them still have diseases that aren't prevalent in North America. Examples include polio, mumps, measles, and other airborne viruses. By making sure you are fully vaccinated you can prevent many illnesses from invading your body and turning your vacation into extended hospital stay. Another caveat: make sure the drinking water is safe. And it would be a good idea to bring healthy snacks, such as granola bars or other easy to pack items that are also convenient to eat and don't require the usage of a microwave or refrigerator.
Don't leave your medicine at home or go with only a partial prescription thinking that you can get a refill. Chances are it won't be that easy, especially if you are out of the country. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before you leave and adjust your prescription refills accordingly. Even if you are staying in the United States it is always good to have a back-up plan. You may also want to talk to your health insurance company about health insurance coverage for travelers. It can offer you extra options that you may need if you're going out of the country.
One of the best things you can to do ensure your health and safety is to some research on the internet about any current health epidemics in the areas that you'll be in. Also find out where the near by hospitals are. Communicate your itinerary to friends and loved ones and make sure your emergency contacts are clearly marked in your phone as well as with any paperwork you carry with you.
Internet a Great Hobby To Pick Up for the Retired
Seniors are increasingly turning towards the Internet. According to data from the Pew Research Center, well-educated and affluent seniors tend to be quite active online. Nearly 60 percent of older adults are going online at least occasionally and often regularly. Almost half of these Internet users are accessing the web using broadband connections, which allow them to get online faster and more easily, and more than 75 percent of older adults have cell phones.
Unfortunately, older seniors and those with physical or cognitive disabilities tend to be more disconnected in real life and are more likely to be offline. Staying connected with others can help expand support networks, and the Internet offers us virtually unlimited ways to connect. It can improve our access to governmental services, give us valuable information and provide older Americans with the social support they need to live healthy, vibrant, productive lives.
People often begin to step back from work during their golden years and follow their passions. For many seniors, these years are an opportunity to engage in fulfilling hobbies and indulging their personal passions in their spare time. Going online can play an important role in their lives. Social networking is one great way to stay connected with children and grandchildren and can combat boredom. Social media also allows you a way to make new friends or meet new potential romantic interests through elderly dating.
The Internet also gives older adults easy and more accessible ways to learn new things. Whether you want to find instructions on a much-needed DIY project or you are planning the vacation of a lifetime, you can do it online. You can even go back to school and obtain a new major. The possibilities are endless.
Learning new things and staying close to the people you love can keep neural pathways open and strengthen your cognitive function. Those who have strong support systems online and in real life are less likely to get depressed and more likely to remain fully engaged with the world around them. If you are not yet online, there is no better time to sign on and get started than right now. You have nothing to lose and an entire world of information to gain.
Unfortunately, older seniors and those with physical or cognitive disabilities tend to be more disconnected in real life and are more likely to be offline. Staying connected with others can help expand support networks, and the Internet offers us virtually unlimited ways to connect. It can improve our access to governmental services, give us valuable information and provide older Americans with the social support they need to live healthy, vibrant, productive lives.
People often begin to step back from work during their golden years and follow their passions. For many seniors, these years are an opportunity to engage in fulfilling hobbies and indulging their personal passions in their spare time. Going online can play an important role in their lives. Social networking is one great way to stay connected with children and grandchildren and can combat boredom. Social media also allows you a way to make new friends or meet new potential romantic interests through elderly dating.
The Internet also gives older adults easy and more accessible ways to learn new things. Whether you want to find instructions on a much-needed DIY project or you are planning the vacation of a lifetime, you can do it online. You can even go back to school and obtain a new major. The possibilities are endless.
Learning new things and staying close to the people you love can keep neural pathways open and strengthen your cognitive function. Those who have strong support systems online and in real life are less likely to get depressed and more likely to remain fully engaged with the world around them. If you are not yet online, there is no better time to sign on and get started than right now. You have nothing to lose and an entire world of information to gain.
The Hard Task of Parenting and Overcoming Obstacles
There are many books about parenting and raising kids. However, not all of them offer the same advice. And there's no perfect manual to help us avoid every mistake or every pitfall. To be honest, making mistakes is the best way to learn. And that goes for both the parent and the child. No one is perfect. And making a family is definitely hard work.
One of the best ways to be a good parent is to try to avoid common mistakes, especially regarding discipline. From the toddler years through the teenage years, kids need boundaries. They also need consistency. Setting up rules regarding what is expected from them is a step in the right direction. But again, let them make their own mistakes sometimes. This will teach them about using judgement. Being fair regarding punishments is another important topic that you will no doubt be tested on through the years. Do your best to keep a steady head - and sooner or later you'll look back through those times and marvel - and maybe even laugh.
One of the biggest mistakes new parents make is panicking over nothing. Remember, every child is different. They all mature at their own pace. Some talk and walk earlier than others do. Some of them are very sociable, others are very shy. Don't fret about it by comparing your child with others. As for school work and sports activities, remember we all have strengths and weaknesses. Some kids are more interested in artistic endeavors, others will be raring to get on the basketball court or the football field.
Raising a family can be a truly beautiful and enlightening experience. And most parents find that their dreams and hopes for their offspring evolve as they grow. However, the main goal of most parents is to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted kids - who will hopefully some day bless them with grandchildren!
Finding Purpose
Have you been feeling a little bit bored lately? Like maybe there's something you're missing out on as you go through the motions, day by day? If you answered yes to either of those questions it probably means that you're ready to do something that will fulfill you and challenge you. It means its time to take actions that will help you find a purpose in life. Before you do that, you need to ask yourself a few questions. Do you have a particular passion that inspires you? Do you like to learn new things? How do you feel about helping others? Do you want to make a difference in your community? And how can your particular skill sets help you do something worthwhile and fulfilling?
As you ask yourself those questions, brainstorm a bit. As you find the answer to your questions, write it down. Write down any and all ideas that you have - big or small. For example, you may not have a lot of extra money, but you may have some extra time. Why not spend some time volunteering for a cause that is near and dear to your heart? Do you have a passion for animals? Try volunteering for a local animal shelter. Do you have a special rapport with kids? Sign up to be a tutor or for a local mentoring program.
Developing meaningful goals actually makes it easier to wake up in the mornings and give you a reason to jump out of bed. Are you passionate about finding a cure for cancer or growing awareness for organ donation? Do you have a green thumb for gardening and the ability to teach others how to grow delicious food? Start by weighing your strengths and then pairing them with your passions. And why not include your family? Your endeavor could be a great teaching tool for your children or grandchildren. You could also get people at work involved as well. Accomplishing your goals might be easier if you allow others to help. After you decide on how you'd like to proceed, take actions to make it happen. You'll probably be pleasantly surprised at how it enhances your life - and the lives of those around you. ]
As you ask yourself those questions, brainstorm a bit. As you find the answer to your questions, write it down. Write down any and all ideas that you have - big or small. For example, you may not have a lot of extra money, but you may have some extra time. Why not spend some time volunteering for a cause that is near and dear to your heart? Do you have a passion for animals? Try volunteering for a local animal shelter. Do you have a special rapport with kids? Sign up to be a tutor or for a local mentoring program.
Developing meaningful goals actually makes it easier to wake up in the mornings and give you a reason to jump out of bed. Are you passionate about finding a cure for cancer or growing awareness for organ donation? Do you have a green thumb for gardening and the ability to teach others how to grow delicious food? Start by weighing your strengths and then pairing them with your passions. And why not include your family? Your endeavor could be a great teaching tool for your children or grandchildren. You could also get people at work involved as well. Accomplishing your goals might be easier if you allow others to help. After you decide on how you'd like to proceed, take actions to make it happen. You'll probably be pleasantly surprised at how it enhances your life - and the lives of those around you. ]
Milk and Arthritis
We've been told for years that milk is full of vitamins and minerals that are needed for strong bones. And a recent study that focused on people who were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis found that people, particularly women, could really benefit from drinking it on a regular basis. In fact, the multiple year study showed that it could slow down the progression of arthritis. That is most definitely good news for people who have been diagnosed with the degenerative and painful condition.
The findings from this study don't exactly prove a causal connection - meaning that there are other factors involved. Most notably those factors include being overweight, the amount of alcohol a person takes in, and smoking. All of those can wreak havoc on the human body and lead to other health risks - including diabetes and cancer.
The people who participated in the study drank low-fat or no fat versions. Many people think they won't get the same benefits from drinking those versions, but that simply isn't true. And if you are underweight, perhaps alternating between the different offerings could be a good idea. Remember, certain fats are good, especially in moderation.
If you are one of the many people who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee, it might be a good idea to stock your refrigerator with this inexpensive and refreshing drink. It also have protein, which is needed for healthy muscles. It also has amino acids and antioxidants that contribute to healthy skin. So it works on the inside and the outside of the body, working to repair damage.
Even if you were diagnosed years ago, it is probably not too late to start making it a part of your regular diet so that you can reap the benefits of this tasty beverage. It could help slow down the progression of the disease and therefore help you find relief. It can be a great way to start the day every morning, especially in a bowl of cereal. It can also be a refreshing beverage after a meal. And not only is it good for you, it also tastes good - so you can have the best of both worlds and not feel guilty or feel like you are compromising your health!
The findings from this study don't exactly prove a causal connection - meaning that there are other factors involved. Most notably those factors include being overweight, the amount of alcohol a person takes in, and smoking. All of those can wreak havoc on the human body and lead to other health risks - including diabetes and cancer.
The people who participated in the study drank low-fat or no fat versions. Many people think they won't get the same benefits from drinking those versions, but that simply isn't true. And if you are underweight, perhaps alternating between the different offerings could be a good idea. Remember, certain fats are good, especially in moderation.
If you are one of the many people who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee, it might be a good idea to stock your refrigerator with this inexpensive and refreshing drink. It also have protein, which is needed for healthy muscles. It also has amino acids and antioxidants that contribute to healthy skin. So it works on the inside and the outside of the body, working to repair damage.
Even if you were diagnosed years ago, it is probably not too late to start making it a part of your regular diet so that you can reap the benefits of this tasty beverage. It could help slow down the progression of the disease and therefore help you find relief. It can be a great way to start the day every morning, especially in a bowl of cereal. It can also be a refreshing beverage after a meal. And not only is it good for you, it also tastes good - so you can have the best of both worlds and not feel guilty or feel like you are compromising your health!
Fun Spring Weekend Ideas
Due to the frigid temperatures and record breaking snowfall across much of the United States, most of us spent our winters cooped up indoors. Now it seems as if the temperatures are progressing nicely upward, away from the freezing mark. The sun is starting to thaw the ground and the grass is getting greener. Spring is finally here - and what a great time of year to get the family together to do something fun, especially if it involves the great outdoors! It really is the perfect time to get away for the weekend and leave the stress of winter behind.
If you're like most people, the work week can seem interminably long. Planning a weekend away can give you and your loved ones something to look forward to. It certainly doesn't have to be extravagant, after all the main goal is to get some quality family time in. Even getting away for just a few hours is well worth it - go fishing, hit the bike trail, take the dog for a long walk in a local park. Do whatever is enjoyable, whether it is playing a round of golf or venturing out onto the local tennis courts with the kids.
Staying active is an integral part for getting and staying healthy. And being in the warm sun can definitely make you happy. Feeling those warm rays is definitely a way to put a smile on your face.
Warmer weather also makes it easier to get back into shape. Sure, the gym is open during the winter. But after a certain point, you probably started to feel bored with the same old work out routine all the time. Now that the temperatures are getting more comfortable, it is time to add a little spice to your work outs. Go for a jog outside. Grab the kids and head out for a scavenger hunt at the park or even in your own neighborhood.
Now is also a great time to do some preliminary yard work. Maybe a trip to the local nursery is in order to pick up some flowers. After all the bitter cold weather we endured and the limited options most of us have regarding wintertime activities, your kids (and you) will no doubt have fun no matter what you do.
If you're like most people, the work week can seem interminably long. Planning a weekend away can give you and your loved ones something to look forward to. It certainly doesn't have to be extravagant, after all the main goal is to get some quality family time in. Even getting away for just a few hours is well worth it - go fishing, hit the bike trail, take the dog for a long walk in a local park. Do whatever is enjoyable, whether it is playing a round of golf or venturing out onto the local tennis courts with the kids.
Staying active is an integral part for getting and staying healthy. And being in the warm sun can definitely make you happy. Feeling those warm rays is definitely a way to put a smile on your face.
Warmer weather also makes it easier to get back into shape. Sure, the gym is open during the winter. But after a certain point, you probably started to feel bored with the same old work out routine all the time. Now that the temperatures are getting more comfortable, it is time to add a little spice to your work outs. Go for a jog outside. Grab the kids and head out for a scavenger hunt at the park or even in your own neighborhood.
Now is also a great time to do some preliminary yard work. Maybe a trip to the local nursery is in order to pick up some flowers. After all the bitter cold weather we endured and the limited options most of us have regarding wintertime activities, your kids (and you) will no doubt have fun no matter what you do.
Possible El Nino Year
Researchers and weather predictors are stating that early indicators show that this year could be an El Nino southern oscillation year. They are basing their predictions on a number of factors, including the temperatures of ocean surfaces. The fluctuations in temperatures occur due to climate changes. These changes cause floods and droughts. These patterns do more than just affect how the air feels - they also affect the prices of food and the supply.
There are certain markers that are noted during these times. They include an increase of surface pressure throughout the Indian Ocean, as well as Australia and Indonesia. This leads to a weakening of air pressure which is seen in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the east and central areas. Scientists have noted the next change regards trade winds in the South Pacific region, which either blow toward the east or weaken dramatically. As Peru gets an onslaught of rain, the conditions of the Eastern and Western Pacific areas to flip flop. This phenomenon of changes in the surface water is what led to the California drought.
During these weather conditions, areas south of the equator often see more strong rain during the winter months. By contrast, the summer months see less rainfall. This means less heavy storms to contend with. And these patterns may start to happen more often due to the effects of global warming throughout the Earth.
Many scoffed at global warming years ago. But recent reports have led some of the previous doubters to believe the truth of this phenomenon. And as the Earth's population continues to grow and carbon emissions increase, the threat of permanent changes in the Earth's climate is growing. In fact, a very recent report warns leaders that the window of opportunity to reverse the process (or at least maintain it) is closing rapidly unless major changes occur.
We also need to keep in mind that the climate changes that occur do more than just affect weather conditions - they also contribute to food shortages and an increase in certain types of diseases. What we do to the planet has serious long term consequences - and those consequences might not be as long-term as were originally thought.
There are certain markers that are noted during these times. They include an increase of surface pressure throughout the Indian Ocean, as well as Australia and Indonesia. This leads to a weakening of air pressure which is seen in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the east and central areas. Scientists have noted the next change regards trade winds in the South Pacific region, which either blow toward the east or weaken dramatically. As Peru gets an onslaught of rain, the conditions of the Eastern and Western Pacific areas to flip flop. This phenomenon of changes in the surface water is what led to the California drought.
During these weather conditions, areas south of the equator often see more strong rain during the winter months. By contrast, the summer months see less rainfall. This means less heavy storms to contend with. And these patterns may start to happen more often due to the effects of global warming throughout the Earth.
Many scoffed at global warming years ago. But recent reports have led some of the previous doubters to believe the truth of this phenomenon. And as the Earth's population continues to grow and carbon emissions increase, the threat of permanent changes in the Earth's climate is growing. In fact, a very recent report warns leaders that the window of opportunity to reverse the process (or at least maintain it) is closing rapidly unless major changes occur.
We also need to keep in mind that the climate changes that occur do more than just affect weather conditions - they also contribute to food shortages and an increase in certain types of diseases. What we do to the planet has serious long term consequences - and those consequences might not be as long-term as were originally thought.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)