Talkspace is one of the most rapidly growing mental health apps in the country. As the United States continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, Talkspace has been instrumental in helping users cope during these difficult times. Recently, Kenyon College announced approval for the use of Talkspace by its students. During a student council meeting the benefits of mobile therapy apps were discussed, and the student officers voted in favor of making Talkspace a treatment option for students who need help with mental health issues.
According
to the Kenyon student council, this is a great opportunity for students to
access mental health resources while they are away from campus and practicing
social distancing. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly every university across
the country has had to send
students home. Because of the close quartered-nature of
universities, they can quickly become breeding grounds for contagious diseases.
While this is usually limited to colds and the seasonal flu, the threat of
COVID-19 is more dangerous. Therefore, universities have opted to send their
students home, having them conduct virtual classes with professors instead. Even
though college comes with its stresses, having to attend college virtually
during a time of crisis can bring a whole new level of anxiety.
Talkspace is one of the leaders in the world of telehealth. The app has more than one million users. Talkspace connects users with licensed therapists and mental health professionals through multiple channels, including on a mobile device. Users start by answering questions about themselves and their history. After which, Talkspace will connect them with multiple therapists who can provide assistance. Then, the user can select which therapist they would like to work with, enter a Talkspace “room” with their therapist, and send messages 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
The
service is the perfect opportunity for Kenyon to help connect students with
mental healthcare opportunities, because of licensing regulations in Ohio. Due to local laws, non-Ohio residents are not
allowed to access tele-health services that would normally be available at
Kenyon College. In an effort to ensure that the same types of counseling
services would be available to students in need, the University sought out
telehealth companies like Talkspace to find a reasonable alternative.
But
it’s more than just providing resources that comply with state and federal
regulations. One of the major benefits of Talkspace is the availability of
therapists. Students can send messages in the moment of stress, rather than
waiting until a weekly appointment. Regardless of whether they are struggling
with depression, anxiety, or something else entirely, there are therapists
ready to take the call. Talkspace is also able to address issues related to
diversity. Diversity is important because students need to be able to relate to
the therapist who is providing them with mental health assistance. Kenyon has
stated that one of the barriers is that it is hard to recruit people who want
to live in the local area. Through Talkspace, students can access therapists
who come from all backgrounds and identities. Therefore, students can connect
with a therapist who they feel understands them a little bit better.
Right
now, the relationship between Kenyon and Talkspace is going to run through this
academic year.
Talkspace has seen numerous advances in its services and, thanks to the increased traffic during the COVID-19 pandemic, Talkspace has also expanded the services it provides. This includes free services to new users and new social media channels through Facebook and Instagram. With the increase in demand for its services, Talkspace has also been providing discounts for services related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The novel app has acknowledged that this is a time for companies to step up and help those in need. Without a doubt, Talkspace sees this moment as a tremendous opportunity to change the way the United States addresses mental health issues. This is a tremendous benefit to college students not only at Kenyon but across the country.
For now, the administration at Kenyon is hard at work helping the app go live for students. If Kenyon has a positive relationship with Talkspace, this might encourage wider adoption of telehealth services.
There is a severe lack of mental health resources across the country. University students face unique challenges as they transition from childhood to adulthood. There are numerous trials and tribulations that they are going to face. While it is nice to have access to mental health resources and counseling on campus, some students are going to feel more comfortable if they have control over who provides therapy. They might also like the idea of confidentiality, not having to worry about someone seeing them walking into campus health. This is where Talkspace can be helpful. It will be exciting to see how Talkspace provides benefits to students at Kenyon.
Today I’ll write about a widely discussed yet largely misunderstood
subject in the Kratom world. An ongoing battle, between two belligerents
fighting for and against its legitimacy. Despite the ever-increasing force differential
between both belligerents, the fight is still ongoing. With an aim to better
explain my proposition, in this blog I’ll break down the larger complicated problem
into smaller parts for better understanding.
Let me first demystify the Kratom powder which holds
so many benefits for almost everyone yet grossly misunderstood by some. The
painful irony is that such a beautiful gift from nature is rather misjudged,
owing to corporate interests of multi-billion-dollar conglomerates dominating
the domestic and global markets today. Why, just for the purpose of corporate
financial interests, deprive the humanity of something which is not only
beneficial in limitless ways, but a source of affordable recreation and rejuvenation?
Do they have justified reasons or are there any underlying motives?
Alright, I’ll confess at the very onset that the best
card those individuals and corporations with vested interests have played is
the card of apparent scientific reasoning. Actually, more of technical verbiages
and fluff to sound more convincing. But it worked to some extent. So, how to reply
to them? Or more importantly, how to explain to the consumers who want to keep
using it but have become somewhat concerned? Well, as I said in the start, in
this blog I’ll factually elaborate various facts regarding the issue, weighing
benefits of Kratom consumption versus the risks “associated” with it and towards
the end, I’ll present my proposition along with the way forward.
A Word about Kratom
For those who do not know, or have little knowledge
about the Kratom, I’ll go over a brief overview of it. Native to the
Philippines, Indonesia Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and adjacent countries in
Southeast Asia, Kratom belongs the same family as the coffee plant. Notwithstanding
that Kratom in US has only been widely used for more or less a decade now,
elsewhere people have been benefiting from its various dividends for centuries.
Kratom is also used as an herbal remedy by millions of people worldwide.
Herbal Remedy? What for?
Herbal remedy for a number of health and mental conditions,
actually. People buy Kratom in US for numerous reasons. There is a wide range
of issues which can be addressed through Kratom usage. In addition to hundreds
of thousands of Kratom users in US reporting improved quality-of-life and
becoming better as regards to their mental and physical activity, the science
also acknowledges the wide range of benefits associated with the presence of beneficial
Alkaline compounds in the molecular structure of various varieties of Kratom. Some
of the associated benefits include, but are not limited to:
Kratom being an anti-inflammatory and analgesic compound, relieves pain because of migraines, arthritis, neuropathy, fibromyalgia and bone injuries etc.
Feelings of anxiety depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders can also be treated. Kratom works by creating a strong sense of calm, state of constant worrying and nervousness by releasing endorphins and raising serotonin levels.
Many individuals suffering from tension headaches, chronic insomnia, and panic attacks reported lessening of these issues subsequent to using Kratom.
Specific varieties of Elephant Kratom induce a calming influence. Others boost the energy levels, help guard against sluggishness, combat fatigue and also improve focus and concentration. The result is increased productivity at work, exercise routines and even help running daily household errands.
Kratom is also proven to be effective at fighting opioids addictions like that of heroin etc. It may also help eliminate or reduce addiction to alcohol and other substances. As a secondary benefit of helping to curb the cravings by being an appetite suppressant, Kratom can also be helpful for weight loss.
Certain Kratom varieties are also helpful in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease. People have also reported Kratom to aid them in lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Usage of Kratom in US – A Statistical Analysis
A survey conducted in September 2016 with
the support of American Kratom Association (AKA) involving a sample population
of 6,150 Kratom users found that:
According to the survey, about five million people buy Kratom
in US regularly.
51% users who buy Kratom in US reportedly use it for pain, 9%
to ease opiate withdrawal and 14% for anxiety.
For the users who use Kratom for dealing with pain, 38% use
if for spine or back, 9% for Fibromyalgia, 3% for Osteoarthritis and 15% for
other reasons.
Overwhelming majority of Kratom users (98 %) does not believe
it to be dangerous or harmful.
95% of the consumers believed that making Kratom illegal
would be detrimental to society.
66% of them claimed that they would get addicted to and risk
overdosing on another substance if Kratom is declared illegal.
(Please note:
AKA made no medical-related claims for kratom in connection with this
published survey)
Attempts to Make Kratom Illegal
Despite the huge
health-related benefits associated with the consumption of Kratom in USA in
addition to its recreational uses, federal
government regulation bodies have made several, albeit unsuccessful attempts to
make it illegal.
With rising
popularity and awareness of the various medicinal advantages of Kratom vis-a-vis
so many diseases and illnesses, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) attempted
to get Kratom enlisted in the legal category of other substances such as
marijuana and heroin, only to be stopped by extraordinary reaction from the civil
society and some members of congress. A ban was also recommended in October
2017 by The Department of Health and Human Services while recognizing some
psychological and behavioural benefits linked with Kratom consumption. States
which have altogether banned the Kratom plant in its various forms are Arkansas,
Alabama, Indiana, Vermont Wisconsin.
Should Kratom in US be Banned?
Multimillion-dollar
question: To buy
Kratom in US be declared an
illegal act because of a few potential risks attributed to it? The clear and
unambiguous answer is “no”. Ask yourself, should the government deprive
hundreds of thousands of people of an opportunity to carry-on with their lives
in a perfectly normal way? Should the lawmakers stop people from becoming an
effective member of their society by performing better at their work or being
happier in their private lives? Should people be deprived of controlling their
pain which results from a medical condition? And do the policymakers have a mandate
to stop people from controlling their anxiety, depression or PTSD? Nature has
given them a remedy, why should another human take it away?
Furthermore, not only
a ban would prohibit people from using Kratom for their own benefits, but at
the same time, it would also hamper the researchers in studying its potential
benefits which are yet to be discovered. A ban, therefore, would do nothing to
help the society. Rather it would further complicate the issue.
Impending Disaster from the Ban
The ban, if imposed,
will result in two inter-linked but dangerous outcomes:
First and foremost, it will
result in the Kratom businesses going secretive, affecting the quality and
purity of Kratom powder itself which would then be handled by organized
criminal groups. Results would be increased violence, crime and breaking of law
and order in the streets.
Secondly, a substantial
number of existing Kratom users would want to continue using it, hence buying
from illegal sources, resulting in those illegal groups benefiting financially
and gaining more street-power.
As a result of the
two dangerous hypotheses discusses above, it is foreseen that a ban will
indirectly lead to more people getting hurt and sick, while governments would
deprive themselves of an important source of revenue and income in forms of
direct and indirect taxes from the Kratom businesses. Needless to say, there is
a huge number of individuals across the country who are directly and indirectly
employed in the Kratom businesses, earning their livelihoods and contributing
to the national GNP.
Proposed Way Forward:
Without a clear understanding
of underlying causes of issues attributed with consumption of Kratom in US, the
problem cannot be resolved. Most people agree that there is a need of deeper
research into the Kratom benefits and effects. But sadly, the approach of “one
solution fits all” is being applied and is clearly not working.
“When your only tool is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail”
Solutions are often neither Black nor White. They mostly fall somewhere in those Gray areas which are in between the two extremes. It is the need of the hour to devise truly effective strategies by taking all the stakeholders onboard, not just the lawmakers and enforcers. The researchers, doctors, pharmacists, business owners and most importantly the consumers themselves must be involved in the decision-making process. A person who goes out to buy Kratom in US to improve his health and mental condition would want to continue to live happily and must never be told to stop using it. A consensus must therefore be reached, mutually agreed by all stakeholders, addressing all genuine concerns of both sides. Only then the issue can tr
A cocktail that’s good for you? It doesn’t seem likely. And while we are not advocating the consumption of alcohol as a way to improve your health, if you are looking for a drink that’s as healthy as possible, ginger liquor would have to be in the running.
Ginger liquor is a drink that’s main ingredients include ginger and brandy. Ginger has long been used as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory. It has been shown to improve digestion and some studies have provided evidence that it may help to fight cancer.
If this is enough to make ginger liquor your drink of choice, here is a ginger liquor recipe that is simply divine
Ginger Liquor Recipe
Ingredients:
2 oz ginger root
1 vanilla bean
1 cup sugar
1 ½ cups water
1 orange
1 ½ cups brandy
Directions:
Peel ginger and cut into thin slices. Split vanilla bean in half lengthwise.
Bring ginger, vanilla, sugar and water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer until ginger is soft, about 20 minutes. Let syrup cool.
Zest orange and place zest in a sealable glass container along with the syrup and brandy. Seal and shake. Let the mixture steep for one day.
Remove vanilla bean and let mixture steep for one more day.
Strain mixture through a coffee filter into your bottle or jar for storage. Let sit for one more day to allow flavors to mellow.
Serve as desired. Liquor does not have to be chilled.
Other Ways to Get Ginger in Your Diet
Of course, drinking an alcoholic beverage may not be the ideal way to get more ginger in your diet, especially if you want to consume it every day. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives.
For instance, crystallized ginger is a delicious way to enjoy this spice. You can buy crystallized ginger in a store or you can make it yourself. It can then be added to stir fries, salads and sweet treats.
You can also take ginger in supplemental form. If you chose to go this route, here are some brands that are recommended.
Gaia Herbs: Gaia Herbs provides homeopathic products that contain herbs the company grows themselves. Their herbs are then tested in their own state of the art lab to ensure they provide the very best in purity and potency. Their certified organic Ginger Root is just one of the many Gaia products that can help boost wellness.
Solaray:Solaray was founded in 1973 and has since expanded to become a leader in the natural health industry. Their product line includes quality herbs, vitamins, minerals and specialty products. Their ginger root capsules are highly recommended for their ability to boost immunity and improve digestion.
If you want to get more ginger in your life, this ginger liquor recipe can be a fun way to do it. Follow up with the right diet and quality supplements to experience optimal health. How will you be incorporating ginger in your daily routine?
One of the most frustrating parts of owning a dog is getting to see your pooch in pain and discomfort. Dogs suffer from a lot of medical conditions that humans suffer from too, including arthritis, stress, cancer, joint pain, seizures, and many others.
If you are considering finding a holistic treatment that can help relieve your dogs’ ailment, then we strongly recommend you start using CBD oil.
What is CBD?
CBD is a compound that is obtained from the leaves and buds of a cannabis plant. Though it has a relationship with the marijuana plant, it is considered safe and doesn’t possess any psychoactive substance. Also, CBD shares metabolic pathways with some drug types that are referred to as NSAIDs. They are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and are responsible for controlling inflammatory responses and resolving blood clotting.
CBD is a very safe compound and has numerous amounts of benefits when introduced to your dog. You can find more on this website about cannabis and its medicinal benefits.
How Can CBD help your Dog?
Humans and animals have an endocannabinoid system (ESC) that makes it possible to get loads of benefits from CBD oil. The ESC allows the ingredients in the CBD oil to relieve any symptoms that your dog might be encountering.
CBD oil can help to solve several medical conditions that your furry friend might be facing either occasionally or otherwise, and there are as follows:
Stress and anxiety
Severe pain
Chronic inflammation
Hepatitis
Arthritis
Joint and muscle pain
Cancer
Epilepsy
Seizures
Digestion difficulties
Insomnia
How to Find the Best CBD Oil?
There are some key things you need to put into consideration when looking for a safe and effective CBD oil, and they include.
How Organic is It?
The best CBD oils are gotten from organically grown cannabis that does not consist of toxins that can be harmful to your dog. When the owner loves animals, for sure they will avoid using any toxic drug on their pet as it could worsen their condition.
How Is It Processed?
There are mainly two ways to extract oil from the cannabis plant. It can be done through C02 extraction or solvent extraction.
C02 extraction is what is considered the best form of removal. Still, it can be a little expensive because of the processes involved. In this form of removal, the cannabis plant is covered inside a pressure chamber with carbon dioxide. And as a result, the pressure is placed on the cannabis plant and thereby causing oil to release from it.
This method produces a lot more oil concentration than the solvent, and it’s also the safest way to extract.
A solvent method is a standard form of extracting oil. It involves the use of petroleum products, propane, and butane. It is highly unsafe because of the toxins it leaves in the extracted oil.
How Reasonable is the Price?
Picking the right product for your pet is essential. That’s the reason we suggest that you find a safe, top-quality product.
As discussed earlier, the process of extraction can be quite expensive, and this can lead to a pricey product. It can also be costly if there’s a large concentration of oil in the bottle. In other words, what we are saying is that you pay what you think is right for the product.
You also need to be wary of providers who sell at a ridiculously low price, as they might be unprofessional or fraudulent.
Does your CBD have a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
If your dog’s CBD oil doesn’t have a COA, then you shouldn’t trust the product. A COA is a document gotten from a lab stating that your CBD oil is filled with the appropriate content and has the active ingredients to help treat your dog.
All you need to do is find companies or providers who test their products and provides you with a certificate that proves it.
All CBD oil’s that come with a COA is regarded as safe and can boast of great medicinal benefits to all consumers.
Does your CBD oil have THC?
THC is the compound that produces the “high” effect in marijuana. That’s why you need to check your CBD product for THC potency. Some products have a higher concentration of THC and can be harmful to your dog’s. The link below has a breakdown of the safest dosage levels for dogs of all ages.
What you need to do is to find products with less than 0.3% of THC in them. They are considered safe and provides health benefits to your furry friend.
Just like any other thing you prescribe to your dog, you must seek the advice of a vet before trying anything new.
If you have popped
the question and are preparing for a 2020 wedding, your attire will be
something you need to give some serious thought. Obviously, you want to look
your best on this most special of days, and with that in mind, here a few looks
that the sharp dresser will be wearing when he walks down the aisle this year.
The Eccentric Look – If you are a man who doesn’t follow the
crowd, make sure everyone knows this by creating a colourful and very unique
look that simply suits your personality. Flashy tie and the style of suit that
you love, and with some very bright socks from a trendy online supplier, you
will cut a unique look that reflects the kind of person you are. If you feel
comfortable with a Panama hat or a cane, then go for it! The great thing about
going over the top is that it matters not – you are, after all, a completely
eccentric person!
The Blue Tuxedo – Ryan Gosling’s blue tuxedo stole the show at the 64th
Cannes Film Festival, and for good reason, as the look was labelled ‘modern
elegance’, with white flower button-hole and a nice silk handkerchief. Black
patent leather shoes and patterned socks make up the rest, and with online sock
suppliers, you can view an extensive range of patterns, colours and designs,
choosing something suitable. A lilac silk shirt blends well with the tux, and
as for bow ties, think bright and creative, with a matching silk handkerchief
and there you have it!
The Gatsby Look – Glitzy and stylish, with silk matching waistcoat
and bow tie, the groom who wears this will certainly raise a few eyebrows. Made
to measure is the only way to go, and be prepared to spend some money, after
all, you only get married once! A 1920s style Italian silk suit forms the basis
of your look, and with stylish brogues in black or brown and chequered socks
from https://philosockphy.com, your Gatsby look is complete. A pocket
watch is a must, along with a silk handkerchief and some stylish cufflinks, and
you are ready for the biggest day of your life.
Crisp, White 3-Piece Suit – If there was ever an occasion for that
tailored white suit, this would be it. Matching the bride is a great idea and
you can accessorise with red or black, depending on your style, and if you
sport long hair and have a slightly rugged appearance, this is the look for
you. The Panama hat is definitely a possibility and such a distinguished look
definitely demands an elegant pocket watch.
As this is to be a
very special day in your life, you should pull out all the stops and make sure
that you complement your bride with a stylish suit that reflects your
character. We would recommend a full dress rehearsal a couple of days prior to
the big day, just to be on the safe side, then you walk down the aisle, knowing
that you look your very best.
Your smile says a lot about you. Therefore, it is essential that we take care of our teeth regularly to avoid potential dental problems. However, sometimes, even if we practice good hygiene, those problems can still arise. One of the reasons is because of a genetic predisposition.
If a dental problem arises, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The longer you postpone the issue, the worse it will get. In the meantime, you should brush your teeth in the morning and in the evening before you go to bed. People often think that nothing will happen to their teeth or gums, but this is where they’re wrong.
Dental problems are very common. In fact, your gums can suffer from a periodontal disease, which causes them to fall out. Many adults suffer from this condition. Elderly people can also lose their teeth, but this is usually because their tooth enamel eventually wears away. This makes their teeth more vulnerable and prone to disease and decay.
If this is the case with your teeth, then you need to act fast. Luckily, a dentist can suggest the usage of dentures to make sure that the holes in your gums are no longer noticeable by the fallen teeth. Click on this page for more. In fact, wearing dentures is your best option, and here’s why:
They improve self-esteem
It can be a really frustrating and stressful experience if your teeth start falling out. You won’t be able to smile or talk because all of that will be visible to others. Instead, you should definitely visit your dentist so that they can find the cause of the problem.
If you are the perfect candidate for dentures, then your dentist will inform you. Before you know it, you won’t feel shy or embarrassed anymore to show your smile. This can really improve your mental health as well.
They improve appearance
Having a toothless smile can definitely put a strain on your confidence. If you want to look more appealing to others, then you should definitely take care of the dental problem. Wearing dentures is nothing to be ashamed of because a lot of people wear them. Plus, you will definitely get used to them after a short period. Nowadays, dentures are made to be comfortable.
They will definitely improve your overall appearance, and you will create a positive impression on someone you meet for the first time. Wearing a full set of perfect dentures can go a long way. Visit a professional as soon as possible to provide a solution to your problem. You will be in the right hands.
They support facial muscles
You won’t be able to feel any discomfort regarding the dentures. They will be specifically designed for your upper and lower jaw. This also means that they will support all of your facial muscles. You will also be able to eat without having to worry that something will happen to your dentures.
A lot of people are concerned whether they would suddenly fall out of their mouths. This never happens. However, you can remove them yourself to clean them. Once the cleaning is over, you can place them back. Make sure to check out the link to find out more details about the topic https://bilottidds.com/dentist-jacksonville-fl/cosmetic-dentures/.
They improve speech
Our teeth play an important role in speaking. Many consonants are formed thanks to our teeth. If your teeth start falling out, you might have trouble speaking. You won’t be able to pronounce words as they sound. Therefore, to eliminate this problem, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist.
The dentist will examine your mouth and determine which type of dentures is the best for you. Afterward, they will make an impression of your mouth so that the dentures can adequately fit your gums. With a full set of teeth, you will be able to speak without problems.
You can eat whatever you want
If you have holes in your gums because of fallen teeth, then you will be prevented from eating everything that comes to your mind. Usually, you won’t be able to eat crunchy, crispy, or hard types of food because it might cause discomfort. Also, if you are suffering from periodontal disease, then there’s a chance that the rest of your teeth will fall off as well.
With the adequate placement of dentures by a dentist, you won’t have that issue anymore. No matter how hard or crunchy or crispy the meal is, you can eat it without difficulty or worry. Dentures will really make your whole life more comfortable. Therefore, if you are suffering from falling teeth, the best option to replace your real ones is if you use false teeth. You won’t notice a difference.
A DUI can cause you to lose your license, pay astronomical fees, and cause your insurance premium to skyrocket. That’s aside from the effects it will have on your immigration status or public standing, which could impact your ability to get a job. That’s not all that could hurt your chances, though. Here are five ways a DUI can harm your career.
1. Required Driving
Companies that require driving as part of the job view those with a DUI as an insurance liability risk. If they can’t trust you to make the right decisions in your own vehicle, how can they trust you to do so in theirs or when you represent their company? This will keep you from getting a new job in a similar field, as well.
2. Background Checks
Nearly every company conducts a background check on potential employees as part of the interview process. In most cases, that’s going to include any criminal history along with your driving record. While companies might view DUIs differently, most will change their perception of you once it shows up on your record.
3. Irresponsible Candidate
When it comes to perception, the top way employers see a candidate with a DUI is irresponsible. While that might not be fair or true, they assume that you cannot hold your daily life and routine together. They might think you fail to take life seriously, they may think you’re an alcoholic, or that they simply cannot trust you.
If you manage to retain your current position, a DUI will cause you to lose trust among your coworkers and bosses. They may also see you as irresponsible, which could cause you to miss out on opportunities and promotions.
4. Financial Strains
Jobs that require driving often offer excellent pay. Without a license, this could cap your earnings at a certain amount and reduce your income. Even when a job doesn’t require driving, they do require you to have a way to get to work. You’ll find yourself paying for rides when you can as you become unreliable to get to work on time.
5. Emotional Toll
A DUI can impact your self-esteem, create surmounting stress from its consequences, and put you in a negative state of mind for some time. All of these emotional tolls can impact your work performance as well as relations in the workplace. If the impact is severe enough, it could cost you your job.
For many, it also leads to depression and drinking. Both of these can also impact your work performance and lead to your firing. It’s essential that those with a DUI seek counseling if the emotional toll begins to impact their daily life.
Moving Forward
If a DUI does cost you your job, all is not lost. You can continue to seek employment with positions that do not require travel. After enough time has passed, it’s also possible to have the DUI expunged from your record, giving you the opportunity to start fresh and land an even better job than the one you had before.
In a perfect scenario, one can eat delicious meals every single day. They can sleep for more than 8 hours, take two naps a day, and stay hydrated. They can eat all the available fruits and vegetables without the extra preservatives.
However, today, the world is a hectic place where you go to work, deal with stress, and buy takeout food. If you are one of the people who wish to be healthy, but you can’t get all you need on your diet, then supplements are there for you. Read more about how you can stay healthy when you click here.
Note that supplements are not some miracle drugs that will keep you healthy even if you are living a poor lifestyle. You should still make an effort to eat nutritious meals, sleep whenever you can, and exercise. Here are some reasons why you need an extra boost.
Why You Need Supplements
1. Fill the Gaps on Your Nutrition Goals
Most people don’t meet the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals in a day. They can’t get these nutrients on food alone. Some can’t meet the dietary requirements because they can’t prepare nutritious meals all the time, they are on a diet, or they have a poor appetite.
One of the goals of supplementation is to bridge this gap. One should maintain a balance between supplements and food. When taken in the right dosage, the pills can enhance the density of nutrients in a diet and make sure that the body meets its vitamins, iron, potassium, and lots of other requirements.
2. Absorption of Nutrients Declines with Age
One of the problems of older adults is a decrease in the body’s absorption of vitamins from the food that one eats. The body can’t break down some of the lipids than it used to as one is aging. Since there’s a natural decline in the absorption process, you can help boost your body through supplements found in sites such as https://supplementsmarts.net.
If your system works so well, you will have a longer life with fewer health problems as you age. You won’t also be taking more than the necessary medications when you get older. Medicines also cause some of the imbalances since they can deplete the body’s essential resources. The supplements can help with this imbalance making you live a healthier life.
3. Supplements with Poor Eating
Some people have erratic eating habits that they can’t meet the nutritional requirements if their bodies. Some days, they eat plenty of greens such as broccoli and kale. Other days, they are eating burgers and fries. Most don’t eat well because of stress or poor habits.
It can be true that supplementation will never replace the value of eating healthy. However, one can prevent further damage that their erratic eating habits are causing. The extra boost of antioxidants will help the body boost its immune system. This means that one is less likely to get sick or experience health problems in the short-term if they have extra help.
4. Lessen the Impact of Ingesting Chemicals
There are herbicides and pesticides used in most vegetables and plants. The chemicals can also be found in the water supply. In this day and age, some pests can harm the entire crops, and the only way to avoid them is to kill them through chemicals.
To avoid the drastic effects of polluting chemicals, one needs to ingest antioxidants that can help the body fight these unwanted toxins. The harmful chemicals can make the immune system significantly weaker. To strengthen them, one should have supplements rich in antioxidants to clean the liver and other organs in the body.
5. Increases Nutrients that are Used through Exercises
If you are into exercising, you will require more protein and other building blocks of the body to make up for the lost ones. Some athletes need to stay in shape, and this involves a lot of vitamins. As one exercise, they use the energy and fuel that are naturally stored in the body.
When these are used up, one can feel weaker, and their bodies can suffer the consequences. To make up for the intense workouts, replenishing the nutrients is a must. The body can recover faster and becomes more robust in the process when there are plenty of carbohydrates and proteins stored. Most people prefer to drink protein shakes instead of eating extra chicken and pasta.
Some doctors reported that their patient tells them that they are eating plenty of grains, fruits, beans, and vegetables. They avoid anything too fatty or sugary. They can be confused about why there’s a need for supplements. While taking so many pills and drugs may not be natural, and it can be a valid agreement, there are reasons why one should take supplements.
Mother Nature’s Programming
If mother nature wants everyone to have more than enough nutrients, is there a reason why she wouldn’t put these in the food that she produces? However, if one wants to have the maximum lifespan and avoid lots of diseases, diet is not enough.
This can be compared to plants where they can survive with just water and sunlight. But in their early years, if you add some fertilizers that are organic and rich in nutrients, they will thrive. They can grow faster and are less likely to die.
For the human body, the same scenario applies. A diet full of fruits and vegetables that is supplemented by boosters will make the body carry out tasks even under rigorous exercises. Mother nature was not concerned about longevity. The main aim is survival and propagation.
She programmed everyone to be in their highest potential in their 20s. This is the age where everyone can reproduce and be in good health to take care of their babies. Beyond that, everyone is on their own. Since there are no provisions that your body will continue to take care of itself beyond your peak years, it’s never too late to establish good habits and drink supplements.
Many of us dream of starting a business,
after all, who wouldn’t want to be in charge and do something they really love?
Unfortunately, it’s not always so easy to get a business off the ground. Cash
is usually the biggest obstacle, and even if you don’t need a huge amount to
start things up, you will need some seed money to get things going. So, how do
you fund your business idea?
Consider
how much you really need
While you may want to start with a big
office and state of the art equipment, the truth is, many businesses start off
in peoples’ garage or a spare bedroom. It’s worth sitting down and working on a
spreadsheet detailing the bare bones of what you need to get things going. As
you make a profit, you can then invest it in buying more stuff for the
business.
Take
out a small loan
It can be a long, complex process to take out a business loan, and perhaps not one you want to get into if you’re just starting a side hustle right now. Consider getting a personal loan from https://nimble.com.au/ to help you get things off the ground. Remember, if the business doesn’t succeed, you’ll still need to pay the loan back, so be careful about how much you borrow and ensure repayments are manageable.
Consider
using your savings
Your savings can be another way to fund
your business dream. If you only need a few hundred to buy some items, then
this may be a good way to get things off the ground. However, there can be
disadvantages to using your savings this way:
You lose out on any potential
interest payments
You may get penalties for
withdrawing your savings
It can remove any safety net
you had for the future
It’s risky – you shouldn’t
invest your entire savings in a business venture
Using small amounts of your savings can
help you achieve your goals, but only use them if you’ve considered the above.
Asking
friends and family for help
Friends and family can often help you with
small loans, and they may well be happy to fund an enthusiastic entrepreneur. However,
borrowing from loved ones can be risky, if things in your business don’t go to
plan, you may end up souring personal relationships.
Treat a loan from family or friends as you
would any business loan. Make sure you pay it back, whether your business
succeeds or not, and put together a business plan so you can make the most of
the money and don’t waste it.
If you’re a budding entrepreneur and have
an amazing idea for a start-up, you don’t have to wait to turn your dreams into
a reality. There are many ways you can fund a business, whether it’s from
taking out a loan, using your own money or getting help from others. Weigh up
the pros and cons of each option and pick a choice that’s right for you and has
the least risk.
With the worldwide spread of the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19, leaders across a range of industries are turning their attention to the unique problems it presents. One example of this is work from David Schmidt, the CEO of LifeWave, a leading health and wellness company. He has used his perspective as an inventor and researcher to help provide people with information relevant to staying safe during these uncertain times. We’ve reviewed information from a recent webinar by the company leader to help our readers gain the benefit of his insights.
Disclaimer
Before diving into the information itself, it is prudent to provide the following disclaimer so that this content can be viewed in the appropriate context. The CEO of LifeWave is not a medical doctor and the insights he has provided are only intended for informational purposes. This information should be used in conjunction with direct input from a qualified healthcare professional. Products from LifeWave cannot be used to cure, treat, or prevent the coronavirus. If you become infected with the virus, contact a doctor to determine the next steps that should be taken.
About the virus
Since there is so much misinformation concerning this pandemic, let’s first take a look at the virus itself to better understand what it is and the unique concerns associated with it. The virus that causes Covid-19 is a coronavirus. This virus type is quite common and can cause many different types of diseases including the common cold, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The virus that causes Covid-19 is new and distinct from these other viruses, however, so it is known as a novel coronavirus.
Symptoms of the disease can include fever, fatigue, dry cough, shortness of breath, aches and pains, sore throat, and more. Carriers of the virus may also exhibit no symptoms at all. The disease has an incubation time of two weeks or more, during which a carrier may exhibit no symptoms but may still be contagious. This is one of the factors that has contributed to the spread of the disease, since infected individuals may spend extended periods of time interacting with others and spreading the disease without realizing they are contagious. This is also one of the reasons that social distancing has been one of the primary methods of slowing the spread of the pandemic.
Virus transmission
While the spread of the virus by asymptomatic individuals is contributing to this pandemic, there are also other factors that may contribute to its spread. The novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19 is estimated by some experts to be 10,000 times more infectious than other coronaviruses that are more commonly seen. This is due, in part, to the size of its viral colony and how many particles of the virus may be exhaled in the course of normal respiration. This spread can be intensified by coughing or sneezing by infected individuals.
While a major source of virus transmission is through respiratory droplets in the cases presented above, there are other transmission vectors that should be considered as well. Individuals can become infected if they come into close contact with an infected individual. Transmission can also occur when individuals touch a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can live for varying time periods depending on the type of surface upon which it rests. For instance, the virus can survive up to 3 hours on copper, up to 4 hours on cardboard, and up to 3 days on stainless steel.
Increased risk
As noted in the webinar hosted by David Schmidt, while everyone should remain informed and take all necessary precautions concerning the virus, it is also important for individuals to understand what factors may place them at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Those who are in an increased risk group may want to take additional precautions or engage in actions to reduce their risk, if possible.
One of the additional risk factors for contracting and developing serious symptoms from the disease includes age. While people at any age can contract the virus, those with an impaired immune system, such as older individuals, have a greater potential to become seriously ill. Obese individuals, individuals with autoimmune conditions, and individuals who consume excessive amounts of alcohol are also at an increased risk due to impaired immune function. Since Covid-19 is a respiratory illness, those with impaired respiratory function, such as smokers, are also at a higher risk of developing serious symptoms if infected with the novel coronavirus.
Additional precautions
While social distancing is one of the primary ways of helping to slow the spread of the coronavirus, there may also be some additional actions that individuals can take to help reduce their chance of becoming infected. One method touched upon by the CEO was the use of hydrogen peroxide, which has been shown to inactivate the novel coronavirus in concentrations of as little as 0.5%. Pharmacies typically sell 3% solutions of the liquid that can be diluted and used as a gargle to prevent viral infection. This practice may help combat viral particles that have become lodged in an individual’s throat during respiration or food consumption.
Ozone has also been shown to be helpful in destroying viruses. This fact can be beneficial for those in situations where they share space with other individuals, such as in an office or shared living setup. In this context, an ozone purifier can help to clean the air and reduce viral load in one’s immediate environment. It is important to take note of the type of ozone air purifier that is being used since some units are intended for disinfecting purposes only. In this case, it is important to find a unit that can operate while people are in the general vicinity.
Diet
Diet may be another useful ally for those seeking to improve their wellness at this time. An optimal diet may help bolster one’s immune system and generally improve one’s chances of preventing infection. Healthy fats can be a key part of a nutritious diet, Omega 3 fatty acids being one of the most useful fats in this regard. These fats have been shown to provide proteins and antioxidants that can play an important role in maintaining a high-functioning immune system. These fats can be found in many different sources such as fish oils, seeds, and nuts.
Consuming high levels of fruits and vegetables can also provide a key source of antioxidants that can contribute to immune function. A variety of these foods can help to balance one’s dietary intake and provide a range of different phytonutrients. Seeking out different colors and fruit and vegetable types can help to ensure a more complete nutritional representation in one’s daily consumption.
Other foods that could contribute to immune function include liver and dark chocolate. Both foods contain high levels of copper, which has been shown to boost immune function. Adequate hydration is also important for those seeking to keep their immune system functioning at the highest level possible. Finally, intermittent fasting can be employed in conjunction with diet to improve immune response. A typical schedule in this regard is 8 hours of eating followed by 16 hours of fasting.
Supplementation
The LifeWave CEO also pointed to the use of nutritional supplements as a way to help support the body’s natural immune functionality. Here again, copper plays a part in his suggested things to consider. Copper glycinate can be effective in daily doses from 2 – 5 mg, although some people may be at risk for an adverse reaction. Vitamin C is another related supplement here, with its use connected to elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide in the body. Combining copper and Vitamin C has been shown to have an inactivating effect on the HSV virus.
Garlic extract is another supplement with intriguing properties. Garlic has been shown to have a positive effect on immune system function, an effect that also may become more pronounced when combined with Vitamin C supplementation. While this is encouraging, caution should be used when supplementing garlic. There may be some undesirable telomere effects related to garlic supplementation, so it may not be appropriate to take daily.
Other supplements that may be of use in this area include melatonin, colostrum, ginger root, zinc gluconate, and Vitamin D. All of these supplements have been connected to enhanced immune system properties and/or a reduced inflammatory response. This may be beneficial when seeking to promote overall wellness.
Sleep
Sleep is also extremely beneficial for promoting an optimally-functioning immune system. Most sleep recommendations advocate for 7 – 8 hours of sleep per night to keep your body operating to the best of its ability. Melatonin, mentioned above in the supplement section, can also be helpful for individuals seeking to improve the quality and duration of their sleep. This may make the supplement doubly beneficial for those trying to improve their immune function and ward off viral threats.
Habit-building can also be a viable strategy for improving sleep quality. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help one’s body develop a natural rhythm for falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night. Reducing the use of electronic devices, especially those with screens, before bedtime may also be of benefit here. Other strategies that have been used to encourage overall sleep quality include adequate hydration, stress reduction, and other positive lifestyle choices.
Stress reduction
In addition to having a beneficial effect on sleep quality, reducing the level of stress in one’s life can have a positive impact on a person’s immune system. This is due to a number of factors but perhaps most significant is stress’s tendency to increase inflammation in a person’s system. Reducing stress can, therefore, have an anti-inflammatory effect and overall beneficial impact on a person’s wellbeing.
Techniques for reducing stress include increasing levels of exercise, engaging in mindfulness meditation, and controlling one’s breathing.
Exercise
Like stress reduction, exercise can also have a positive impact on a person’s immune system. This points to the interconnectedness of many of the areas of focus touched upon by Mr. Schmidt. Exercise can improve immune function by improving a person’s quality of sleep and their ability to engage in stress reduction. It can also help to mitigate some of the factors that make a person more susceptible to disease, such as obesity and reduced cardiovascular capacity.
Intense exercise can take many forms and can include strengthening work such as resistance training, weightlifting, or bodyweight exercises. Yoga, Qi Gong, and calisthenics can be used by individuals who are seeking to improve flexibility through exercise. Sprinting or other forms of high-intensity interval training can help to improve cardiovascular function. Exercising while sick has been associated with compromising the immune system, so individuals who are dealing with active symptoms should contact a medical professional before making the decision to work out.
Though the novel coronavirus has now spread worldwide, affecting the global population, there still may be much that can be done on the individual level to improve wellness. Social distancing is an important part of any person’s overall wellness strategy at this time. In addition, the above information from the CEO of LifeWave can help to improve wellness and promote optimal immune function. Possible efforts here include optimizing diet, exercise, sleep, hydration, and stress management. Applying this information alongside the guidance and supervision of a qualified medical professional may be beneficial at this time.
About the company
LifeWave is a leading health and wellness company founded in 2004 by David Schmidt. The company’s founder helped create its innovative line of offerings from a lifetime of invention, product development, and work in various areas of business. The offerings for which the company is best known are its line of patented phototherapy patches. These patches are applied topically to a user’s skin in order to reflect specific wavelengths of light back into the body. Depending on patch design, this process can activate profound changes at the cellular level that can improve a number of wellness markers. The company’s patches have been used to combat aging, reduce pain, and improve overall energy levels. Due to the success of its offerings, the company has been singled out in multiple years on the list of fastest-growing companies by Inc. Magazine.
