Things to know before using whitening toothpastes

Things to know before using whitening toothpastes

Important information you need to know about teeth whitening toothpastes Teeth staining and sensitivity are two of the most common issues present today. However, they are equally easily overlooked by a majority of people. While there are in-office treatments, over the counter medications, and other methods available to deal with these issues, the most convenient way is brushing. Although brushing might not give you instant results, it helps in putting up a consistent fight. Considering how neither sensitivity nor teeth staining can be cured once and for all, affordable teeth-whitening toothpaste for sensitive teeth is your best bet. Research has suggested that regular brushing with such specifically designed toothpastes helps remove surface stains caused by the foods we eat. This, however, does not help with the natural color of your teeth or the discoloration present beneath the surface. What you should know about teeth whitening toothpastes Whitening toothpastes can be abrasive, and they work by polishing the stains off. Some other types contain chemicals like peroxides that break down the stains. If you are worried that these might harm your teeth, you can opt for products that have items like charcoal or activated carbon and zinc citrate in them. Some other whitening toothpastes contain blue covarine. Instead of cleaning out the stains, blue covarine coats the teeth and provides instant whiteness. These, however, are superficial results and don’t actually help the staining issue. Which whitening toothpaste is the best? So if you haven’t been using teeth whitening toothpastes to get rid of teeth stains, we’re here to help. Given below is a list of affordable teeth-whitening toothpastes for sensitive teeth so that you know which are the best ones in the market. Colgate® Optic White® Contrary to most commonly available whitening toothpastes, this one works on intrinsic stains along with surface stains.
Superfoods that help improve blood count

Superfoods that help improve blood count

Maintaining healthy blood count levels and circulation is vital for all organs to function optimally. A drop in blood count reduces oxygen supply to the tissues and may lead to anemia, fatigue, concentration issues, and other serious health concerns. Similarly, poor blood circulation causes cognitive dysfunctions, digestive problems, and muscle cramping. Studies show that certain foods help to maintain healthy hemoglobin levels. Women, especially during pregnancy and menstruation, can benefit from consuming them. What improves blood count and circulation? Foods rich in iron and vitamins A, B12, B9, and C, help maintain hemoglobin levels. Vitamin C aids in iron absorption. Additionally, vitamins B, K, C, and E and omega-3 fatty acids have shown to improve blood circulation. Potassium or vitamin K, in particular, keeps the walls of the blood vessels strong and prevents bulging veins. Apart from food, an effective way of instantly improving blood flow and oxygen levels is to indulge in physical activity daily, like running, biking, walking, or stretching. Top foods that improve blood count and circulation Here are some superfoods that support heart health, boost blood count, and improve blood flow: Beetroot Beetroot is a powerhouse of nutrients with iron, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and several vitamins. This vegetable helps to regenerate red blood cells and increase hemoglobin count. Pomegranate Pomegranate contains antioxidants and nitrates that promote blood flow and oxygenation. Berries All kinds of berries are antioxidants. They help in blood circulation and protect the walls of the arteries. Oranges, gooseberry, grapefruit These three citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C and can help in iron absorption, which boosts one’s blood count. Dates and raisins These dry fruits are packed with iron and vitamin C. Consuming a handful of these every day can give one an energy boost and maintain healthy hemoglobin levels. Figs Figs are rich in iron, magnesium, vitamin A, and folate and improve one’s hemoglobin levels.
Home remedies for dog allergies

Home remedies for dog allergies

Like humans, dogs, too, tend to develop certain rashes, allergies, and skin problems. While getting veterinary help is essential, minor problems can always be resolved with an effective home remedy. So, if you look to eliminate itchiness, discomfort, and redness in dogs, here are a few effective natural remedies to try out. Oat baths When it comes to doggy allergies, an oat bath is an excellent remedy. It washes away any allergens stuck on the dog’s coat and reduces inflammation. One must never use it during a yeast infection, as it can make it worse. To make an oat bath, one has to grind sugar-free, organic oats into a fine powder and then boil it with water. Using this to bathe the dog will provide them with relief. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent. It can be used to clean a dog’s paws, ears and even fight off yeast infections. All one needs to do is take a clean spray bottle and add apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio and spray it on the dog’s itchy spots for relief. Nonetheless, one must not spray it on wounds or bites. Baking soda Baking soda is an easily available and effective way to provide relief to itching caused by dog allergies. Create a simple paste using baking soda and water, and apply it to the dog’s itchy spots to alleviate itchiness and redness. Let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing it off thoroughly. One can also add a little coconut oil to provide the dog with some moisturizing goodness. Aloe vera Aloe vera gel contains antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat several problems. It reduces redness and discomfort, treats burns and itchiness, and provides cooling. Its application is simple:
4 types of shoes every kid should have

4 types of shoes every kid should have

Finding the right shoes for your kids can be tricky. There are hundreds of varieties on the market, featuring different styles, patterns, sizes, etc., which can leave you confused. Besides, your child can’t wear the same shoes they wore to gym class on a playdate. This means you would need to invest in more than one pair. To make things easier, we’ve listed three types of shoes that every parent must buy for their toddler. Slip-ons Slip-ons are easy for your little ones to wear by themselves. They’re typically worn without socks and are an excellent option for summer. Besides, these are more than just casual shoes, so your kid can wear them on playdates or birthday parties, too. Brands like TOMS offer dozens of slip-ons in different prints and materials suitable for both boys and girls. The shoes are true to size and adjust to the shape of your toddler’s feet for the best comfort. The price ranges between $30-70. Snow or rain shoes Your kid can’t go out in the snow or rain wearing casual sneakers or slip-ons. They’ll need shoes that keep their feet warm, dry, and comfortable. Machine wash shoes are better as footwear can get messy in the rains. You may also want to look for something that stays firm on their feet in different terrains. KEEN is a sought-after footwear brand that makes waterproof, durable, and quality shoes for toddlers. The shoes have an extra layer of insulation and thermal lining to keep your child’s feet cozy in snowy weather. They’ve got hiking boots as well for slightly older kids. Sneakers Kids love to run and jump around all day, and hence they can’t do without sneakers. You’ll need a solid and durable pair of sneakers for your toddler that doesn’t tear easily. At the same time, it should be lightweight and fit comfortably on the feet.
Smartphone habits to change today

Smartphone habits to change today

Smartphones are one of the most used gadgets on a daily basis. With new and innovative features being introduced with each upgrade, you can practically get anything and everything done as long as you have a stable internet connection. But these features can also lead to many bad habits that can be detrimental to your health and your device’s longevity. Here are four common mistakes people make and should break free from today. Buying cheap accessories Never buy cheap knock-offs or first-copy accessories for your phone, including charging and data transfer cables. Experts recommend using the ones that come with the box or switching to a superior make and quality. This is mainly a safety precaution to lower the risk of electrocution or the phone battery overcharging and bursting into flames triggered by cheap materials. Checking all notifications Notifications can be really distracting and time-consuming. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself constantly checking the phone for the latest updates. That’s a tough habit to break, especially if you are active on social media. It is only the beginning of smartphone addiction, so you must brace yourself and be mindful of the daily hours spent on the phone. React and respond only to important alerts only and try to ignore the rest of the apps until the end of the day. Relying heavily on the phone These days it might seem futile even to remember the numbers of immediate family members and friends, as we always have our phones on us. Without the phone contact list, you are completely lost and don’t know what to do. This isn’t good, and to avoid forming this habit, you must memorize essential numbers and details. Don’t rely heavily on the phone. Using the phone alarm It can be tempting to set the alarm on your phone instead of buying an alarm clock.
5 smartphone habits to break right away

5 smartphone habits to break right away

Most of us can’t do without a smartphone. The gadget helps us communicate easily, find the information we’re looking for, shop for our favorite products, and so much more. On the downside, we spend hours glued to our screens. This can take a toll on our personal lives, affect physical and mental health, and even cut short the life of our devices. Here are some harmful smartphone habits to break immediately. Scrolling before bedtime Endless scrolling on social media before bedtime makes it hard to fall asleep at night, leading to restlessness and tiredness the next day. Screens emit a blue light that affects melatonin production in the brain, the hormone that controls a person’s circadian rhythm or sleep-wake cycle. Without melatonin, it can be difficult to fall or stay asleep. Experts advise keeping the phone away for at least an hour before bedtime. You can instead read a book or listen to a podcast to relax your mind. Always keeping the phone with you If you keep your phone in your pocket, you’ll be constantly tempted to pull it out and browse. Not to mention, you’ll be on the alert for notifications. Therefore it’s best to carry it in your purse or backpack. If these options aren’t feasible, put the device on silent mode when keeping it on you. Purchasing cheap cables Smartphones are a long-term investment. Be it the latest iPhone or a flip phone, we want our gadgets to last for as long as possible. But, many don’t realize that something as simple as using cheap cables and chargers can damage electronic devices and reduce their lifespan. Faulty wires can permanently damage the battery and increase the risk of a fire or electrocution. So, invest in a quality cable to protect yourself and your phone. Draining your battery completely Allowing the battery to drop to 0% could damage your cell phone.
4 human foods that are safe for cats

4 human foods that are safe for cats

If you have pet cats at home and occasionally feed them from your plate, you must know which foods are safe for them. Cats can be greedy eaters, and irrespective of the cute faces they make at the dinner table, it’s best not to give them anything besides cat food until you’re a hundred percent sure. To help you, we’ve listed a few human foods that are safe for cats to eat. Salmon Cats love fish, and vets recommend feeding them fish-based cat foods. Most options are rich in omega-3 and other nutrients. Oily fish, in particular, like tuna, salmon, or mackerel, is excellent for their eyesight and joints. However, don’t feed your feline straight from the can; they might lick it too aggressively and cut their tongues. It’s best to provide them with cooked pieces that have no bones. Whole grains Grains are power-packed with nutrients and are healthy for both humans and cats. Oats, mainly, have lots of protein, but not many cats like it. Some cats prefer coarse food made from brown rice and cornmeal. If you’re not feeding your cat meat or fish, whole grains can be a good substitute. You can cook smaller grains like millet, couscous, or wheat berries at home. Boiled eggs Boiled eggs are an excellent source of vitamin B and protein and are healthy for your cat. But ensure the eggs are cooked well to avoid bacteria like salmonella or E. coli from entering your feline’s system. Moreover, some cats can be allergic to eggs, so proceed with caution. Fresh veggies and fruits While not all cats are vegetable and fruit lovers since they cannot taste the sweet flavors, some do nibble on fresh fruits and veggies. Cucumber, cantaloupe, steamed broccoli or asparagus, baked carrots, and green beans have the proper nutrients and minerals.
Foods to avoid for managing Crohn’s disease

Foods to avoid for managing Crohn’s disease

When you have been diagnosed with a condition such as Crohn’s, it is vital to watch what you consume to avoid triggering or worsening symptoms. Although there is no specific meal plan for patients with this condition, it has been noticed that avoiding a few foods can help to manage the condition more effectively. However, these trigger items can vary from one person to another. Read on to learn about the foods to avoid during Crohn’s flare-up: Dairy products If you have Crohn’s disease, you might be lactose intolerant too. Lactose is a protein found in milk and dairy items such as cheese, and some people find it difficult to digest or process. Hence, consuming these items could trigger the symptoms of Crohn’s disease and lead to bloating, diarrhea, cramping, etc. However, dairy products are a rich source of vitamin D and calcium; if you are avoiding them, you would need to get these nutrients from other food sources. This can include green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals or juices. You might also need to talk to your doctor about taking supplements. Greasy and fried foods People with this condition should avoid items such as French fries and fried chicken. Even items such as sauces made with cream should be avoided. These, too, are difficult to digest and might not be adequately processed in the digestive tract, and could result in loose stools or cramping. Choose cooking methods that involve minimal oil and fats, such as baking, steaming, and broiling. Also, limit your intake of high-fat foods such as salami, sausages, and deli meats, as they can be difficult to digest. High-fiber foods If you experience a flare-up of symptoms of Crohn’s disease frequently, then it might be best to steer clear of whole grains and certain fruits and vegetables.
10 Cyber Monday fitness tracker deals to watch out for

10 Cyber Monday fitness tracker deals to watch out for

Whether you want to buy a fitness tracker for yourself or to give it as a gift to someone close to you, pick one up during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. These sale would help you find the best one with the most features at an affordable price. Here’s a list of the discounts on fitness trackers that were available on Cyber Monday last year, so you know what to look forward to this year. Fitbit Charge 5 This fitness tracker is one of the best on the market. It is water resistant and has a battery life that can last up to a week. It also has a GPS and various health sensors. It is lightweight, which makes it easy to wear, and you can easily read the information you want from it even in direct sunlight. On Cyber Monday, this device was available for around $130 on Amazon. Garmin Instinct Solar You could get $150 off this fitness tracker on Cyber Monday last year if you bought it at BestBuy. This device gets its power from the sun, and hence, you never have to worry about the battery running out. The Garmin Instinct Solar has an amazing GPS feature and provides you with the necessary notifications you might need when on the go. Amazfit Band 5 You could find these Amazon-brand fitness trackers at discounted prices last year on Cyber Monday. Among them is this device the can measure blood oxygen levels and monitor the heart rate. The Amazfit Band 5 is compatible with Alexa and has a 1.1-inch easy-to-read AMOLED display. Ut was priced at just $30 during the mega sales event, which was probably one of the most affordable. TicWatch GTH Combing the features of both a smartwatch and a fitness tracker is this device that was available on Amazon at a low price.
6 lifestyle habits that may disrupt menstrual cycle

6 lifestyle habits that may disrupt menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is a complex natural process controlled by female hormones and causes regular bleeding (periods). However, this cycle could be interrupted due to several factors, including pregnancy, menopause, or underlying health complications. As a result, the period may occur early or late, along with a difference in the blood flow. But apart from natural factors, one might also make these six lifestyle errors that may affect their menstrual cycle. Stressing out Stress caused by factors, including work, personal issues, or other reasons, could be unhealthy for one’s overall well-being. When an individual is stressed, it may cause problems with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which helps regulate ovulation and menstruation. So the period may stop or change from its normal pattern. While this may not cause long-term problems, it is recommended to look for ways to reduce stress. For example, one could indulge in yoga, tai-chi, breathing exercises, and other techniques to improve mental well-being. Exercising excessively Regular exercise is one of the best ways to maintain physical and mental health. However, intense routines may apply more stress on the body, which might tamper with the hormones responsible for the period. Therefore, it is important to avoid high-intensity exercises if one’s menstrual cycle is affected. If an individual is a professional athlete, they must ask a healthcare expert about ways to maintain their performance without having period problems. Sleeping poorly The human body requires at least seven to eight hours of sleep daily so it can reenergize and function normally. However, with unpredictable work schedules, getting the right amount of sleep at night could get more challenging. The lack of sleep may lead to multiple health complications, including changes in one’s menstrual cycle. Studies indicate that certain individuals who got less than six hours of sleep were at an increased risk of an irregular period cycle.
Factors that determine daily water intake levels

Factors that determine daily water intake levels

Drinking water daily is essential for optimum health, but excessive water intake can lead to diarrhea, frequent urination, and other conditions. Therefore, one must understand how much water intake is safe for them. Daily water intake depends on multiple factors. Experts suggest drinking eight glasses of water daily, but not everyone needs to follow this. Keep reading to learn how much water one should drink daily to maintain optimum health. Advantages of drinking water Almost 60% of the human body is made up of water. Your body needs water to function correctly. Going without water for over a few days can lead to life-threatening complications. There are many advantages to drinking water daily, some of which are listed below. Control your body’s temperature. Maintain a healthy mouth. Lubricate your joints and safeguard your delicate tissues Eliminate hazardous wastes through urine, sweat, and stool Positive effects on skin health Maintains the bloodstream liquid enough to travel through blood vessels How much water should a person drink daily? There is no clear-cut suggestion on how much water a person should drink daily. It is because each body is different and requires different amounts of water daily. However, some experts believe that- Adequately hydrated men should drink 3.7 liters (125 ounces) of water daily. Adequately hydrated women consume about 2.7 liters (91 ounces) of water daily. Factors affecting drinking habits Body mass People with high body mass may require more fluids because the average adult body contains more than two-thirds of water. Therefore, to estimate how much water one should drink daily, calculate one’s body mass in pounds and divide it in half to get an approximate figure. Location People in tropical or arid climates must drink more water to replenish fluids lost through sweat. One must drink more water at the hottest times of the year, as dehydration will be a significant concern.
4 foods that help fight bladder-control issues

4 foods that help fight bladder-control issues

The bladder helps with the storage and disposal of urine. But with time, factors like age and underlying health conditions cause the bladder to perform inefficiently. Leaving the urinary system untreated can cause health conditions such as an overactive bladder (OAB), urinary incontinence, even urinary tract infection (UTI). And although incontinence products and treatments options are available, adding certain foods to your daily meals may help cope with bladder issues and improve overall health. These four foods are highly recommended for those suffering from an overactive bladder. Bananas When bowel movements are restricted, there’s an increase in pressure on the urinary tract. This pressure reduces urine flow and causes incontinence. The fibers and potassium in bananas promote healthy bowel movements and flush out the urinary tract. The fruit is also non-acidic, which means it does not irritate the bladder and makes for a balanced nutrient supply to the body. Pears Pears may taste sweet but they are low in sugar content and contain several antioxidants and fibers that are much required for the body. This fruit is also high in sorbitol, which a sugar alcohol that help pulls water into the intestines and stimulates better bowel movements. These properties make for pears a great fruit for dealing with OAB and improving bowel movements. Kiwi The high fiber content in kiwi makes it an effective food for dealing with unhealthy, restricted bladders. Studies show that thos fruit stimulates the digestive tract and accelerates bowel movements. Kiwis are also praised for their ability to boost intestinal transit time, ward off constipation symptoms, and help reduce the use of laxatives. Beans Among foods that help cope with OAB, beans rank among the top owing to high fiber content. This food is also rich in soluble fibers that are known to absorb water and form a gel-like structure that softens stool and makes bowel movements easier.