Category: Health

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Health

5 Best Anti-Aging Creams to Fight Wrinkles, According to Dermatologists

We all know to constantly moisturize to help prevent aging. Many of us treat acne, uneven skin tone and various other cosmetic skin issues. Whether you’re older or younger, it’s never a bad idea to incorporate anti-aging products into your skin care regimen. As we get older, the skin becomes thinner and we lose collagen and elastin in our faces. There are many products people can use to start combatting those aging issues so that fine lines and wrinkles won’t become an issue prematurely.

The following are dermatologist recommended products to help fight these skin aging issues.

For the Best Overall Anti-Aging Cream

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Night Cream

It’s commonly agreed upon by dermatologists that the vitamin A derivative retinol is the most potent ingredient when it comes to getting rid of wrinkles. More ingredients that make a huge impact on aging include SPF, antioxidants, acids and peptides. But this particular night cream can make a huge impact when used as a nightly routine. Here is what one dermatologist had to say about it: Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum concurs that retinols are the “gold standard” and “one of the hardest working products — the MVP — in your beauty arsenal” for treating aging skin. That’s because retinols can help increase cellular turnover and encourage the formation of new skin, as well as the production of collagen and elastin, all of which help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, according to Nussbaum.

For the Best Drugstore Anti-Aging Cream

composition of various cosmetic creams on white background, top view

Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Face Moisturizing Cream

Pretty much any moisturizer you get and regularly use can be extremely helpful to prevent skin from aging poorly, however there are moisturizers that have the perfect ingredients for rejuvenating aging skin. This cream claims to hydrate skin to improve elasticity and firm skin for a lifted look. It contains skin-plumping Amino-Peptide Complex II, this cream moisturizer smoothes and corrects the look of fine lines and wrinkles. In the description,  it says it should begin to after just 4 weeks; reducing the look of up to 10 years of wrinkles. Dermatologists like this cream for its thicker consistency and the fact that it’s loaded with hyaluronic  acid which is great for retaining moisture. Experts agree this is one of the best drugstore options.

For the Most Versatile Anti-Aging Cream

Revision Skincare Intellishade with SPF

One of the most important aspects of skincare and anti-aging routines will always be protection from the sun. Incorporating an SPF into a skincare regimen is going to have positive long term effects on skin. This particular product is great because it is a very versatile product and covers a lot of bases. It is a moisturizer, SPF, and it is tinted, so it can provide a bit of coverage to give users the even skin tone they like with foundations. Dermatologists agree that this product can do three important things: protect, correct and hydrate.

For the Best Peptide Anti-Aging Cream

Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Wrinkle Resist Moisturizer

We mentioned peptides briefly, but this product really highlights the importance of peptides in skincare. Peptides are amino acids that are the building blocks of certain proteins needed by the skin, like collagen and elastin. Using a serum or moisturizer that contains peptides can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin, and maybe even fewer breakouts. Here’s the description this company provides: “An unprecedented amount and array of 21 Peptides and Neuropeptides allows the multi-action serum and moisturizer to effectively treat every area of the face and neck. Enhanced by cutting-edge Gamma Proteins, these formulas help improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity, radiance, uneven skin tone and texture.”

For the Best Anti-Aging Cream for Sensitive Skin

Avène Eau Thermale RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

A large number of people struggle with sensitive skin- so some products may be a bit too harsh. But that doesn’t mean people with sensitive skin are doomed to rapidly aging skin. Products like this cater to those who find other products and chemicals too harsh. The product is formulated with retinaldehyde, which, while gentler than traditional retinol, is still an effective active ingredient. It also contains antioxidants to protect sensitive skin from free-radical damage. Try this out and you will notice a difference in the appearance of deep wrinkles and furrows while smoothing and renewing skin.

 

While all of these products will help and are recommended by a dermatologist, it is also important to live a healthy lifestyle in order to reduce skin aging. Exercising, hydrating, no smoking and other lifestyle changes paired with these dermatologist recommended products can majorly affect how quickly your skin ages. And ladies, don’t forget to treat the neck and chest area as well!

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Health

Hearing Aids: How To Choose The Right One

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Deciding to use a hearing aid can be a tough decision. The many types of hearing aids can seem overwhelming at first glance. To decide which hearing aid works best for you, take a few things about your individual needs into consideration, and compare key features of the types of hearing aids available today. This step can make the decision-making process much easier for you.

Before deciding to purchase hearing aids, it’s vital to do some research and visit your doctor. That way, you can better understand your individual needs. You can also learn about the specific type of hearing aid you’ll need.

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Hearing aids are made in several different sizes and come at varying price points as well. Smaller is not necessarily always better or more effective, so it’s essential to decide what is necessary for you to hear better. Starting with the smallest, least visible model, consider the Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aid. This option is molded to fit inside your ear. As it is the smallest, it is also the option with the least amount of features, which means it has a shorter battery life, is relatively small, and can be challenging to handle.

Another option is the In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aid. This particular model is still much less visible than more oversized styles and will help with mild to moderate hearing loss. It also includes features not available on smaller types of hearing aids, such as volume control.

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There are two types of In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids. The first and larger one fits most of the entire area of the outer ear. The second option only fits into the lower half of the outer ear. As these models are slightly larger, they also can feature volume control and a larger battery for more extended periods of use but are also more visible.

The Behind-the-Ear (BTE) type of hearing aid sits over the top of your ear and curves to the back of the ear. This version is a larger model, so it offers durability, features a larger battery size, and volume controls features. This model’s drawbacks are that the hearing aid is larger and much more visible, and it can pick up more wind noise. But overall, this is a versatile option with an easier time getting fit for it, and is a great choice for almost anyone with some hearing loss.

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Another model to consider is the Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE). This hearing aid model is more streamlined and less conspicuous as it features a wire that connects the part over your ear to the piece behind your ear. It is less visible regarding the behind the ear aspect, but it can be difficult to handle due to its smaller size and is also prone to getting clogged from ear wax buildup.

The last model to consider when deciding on what type of hearing aid is best for you is the open fit model. This hearing aid is similar to the behind-the-ear style, but a thin wire instead of a tube connects the two pieces. This hearing aid’s advantage is that it keeps the ear canal much more open, which lets lower frequency sounds enter the ear more naturally, while it will amplify higher frequency sounds as they enter the ear. Again, this style is less visible than other models, and because of its size, it may be more challenging to handle and maintain.

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After doing some research, some aspects to consider carefully are how much you are concerned with the hearing aid’s look and how well others can see it. Another important consideration is your ability to handle smaller parts like the volume control feature and changing the battery when necessary.

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Health Insurance

Best Places To Buy Contacts Online In 2020

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Top-quality contact lenses are expensive. Those who require them don’t want to sacrifice their eye health just for the sake of saving a few dollars. And if you’re thinking about opting for insurance, then remember that most plans do not offer coverage for both glasses and contacts.

So many are better off shopping online to get the best prices. However, first, consult an optician and optometrist for an optical assay and contact lens exam before you go online for the best deal on contacts online.

You’ll need to show a valid prescription of an ophthalmologist or optician before you can place an online order. In the following paragraphs, we’ve listed the best places where you can shop for contact lenses. However, this research is an all-inclusive list as there are numerous other sites that you can check out for a bargain deal.

The Best Places to Buy Contacts Online:

Lens.com

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If you regularly buy contacts, chances are that you have come across Lens.com. Customers swear by the company’s excellent customer service. Lens.com sells contact lenses of the most popular brands at prices that other sites will struggle to match.

Lens.com offers contact lenses of different brands including but not limited to BIOMEDICS, Biofinity, Avaira, Air Optix, and Dailies. You stand to reap many benefits when you shop on the Lens.com portal for a wide range of optical products. For a start, you get the best (read lowest) prices, especially on prescription contacts. 

The company also has a very transparent returns policy and even reimburses you for the cost of shipping back unopened boxes. On the downside, Lens.com does not acknowledge eye health insurance. Nevertheless, you can always claim reimbursement from your insurance provider by submitting the purchase voucher. 

Scout from Warby Parker

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Warby Parker earned its standing in the optical product market by promoting elegant and affordable glasses. Eyepieces now offer ‘Scout.’ Scout is a brand of contact lens owned and marketed by Warby Parker. The company claims that Scout is breathable and immensely comfortable to wear as the lenses have been shaped out of a material that supposedly remains continuously moist.

The contacts are packaged in compact and completely flat cases that are easily transportable and minimal storage. Opting for a supply of Scout daily contacts for three consecutive months sets you back by $110, making them expensive. Nevertheless, you can always check out Warby Parker’s six-day trial offer for Scout contacts at $5 to figure out if the lenses are suitable for you.

Coastal

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You can bet that you’ll have an excellent experience shopping on Coastal’s website if you can find a web-based outlet offering branded contacts at a price lower than that offered by Coastal, the latter guarantees to match that price. The assurance covers the entire purchase cost, including shipping and fees, but the price match offer comes with specific terms and conditions.

The contact site offers you the option of choosing from a wide variety of contact lenses, including non-prescription colored contacts.

ContactsDirect

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As it is with Coastal, ContactsDirect offers a broad array of contact lenses, comprising Toric lenses (for astigmatism), soft contact lenses (for dry eyes), and multifocal lenses. ContactsDirect also has an explicit and lucid returns policy that is valid for a full year. So if your vision changes within a year, necessitating vision correction, then you can take advantage of ContactsDirect’s return policy. 

Source:

https://www.cnet.com/health/best-place-to-buy-contacts-online/

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Health

Best Foods for Arthritis

Living with arthritis can be very difficult. While there are many different forms of arthritis, learning how to cope and treat your ailments is always the most important thread. If you have arthritis, it is possible your doctor has spoken to you about different treatment options for your specific circumstance. Staying on top of these treatments and everyday is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But something that can supplement the treatment your doctor has laid out for you is supporting your body with a healthy diet.

It is generally agreed upon that a Mediterranean diet is considered to be a healthy option for somebody with arthritis. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans but low processed foods and saturated fat, is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity. These are the defining principles of the Mediterranean diet, praised for its anti-aging and disease-fighting powers.

Fish

Fish oil supplements have been used to improve pain for a very long time. It’s also know to increase remission rates in rheumatoid arthritis patients taking triple therapy. So, naturally, incorporating fish into an arthritis diet is one of the first tips. Some types of fish are good sources of inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, tuna, sardines, herring, anchovies, scallops and other cold-water fish are packed with these nutrients. But if you’re someone who dislikes fish, you can always just take a fish oil supplement. Studies show that taking 600 to 1,000 mg of fish oil daily eases joint stiffness, tenderness, pain and swelling.

Fruits & Veggies

Getting fruits and veggies in a diet has been hammered into our brains since childhood. But for those suffering with arthritis, this is especially important. Green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, brussel sprouts, kale, Swiss chard and bok choy are packed with antioxidants like vitamins A, C and K, which protect cells from free-radical damage. These foods are also high in bone-preserving calcium. If you are a fan of fruit, your best sources are blueberries and cherries – the brighter the fruit, the better! Try to get nine or more cups of these a day.

Nuts & Seeds

Many nuts and seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which lower cholesterol and reduce the heart disease risks that can be higher in people with certain types of arthritis. For people with arthritis, it’s recommended that you get at least 1.5 ounces of nuts or seeds a day. One ounce is about the equivalent to a handful. Here are some great nuts to snack on:

  • Walnuts
  • Peanuts
  • Almonds
  • Pistachios
  • Flaxseed (added to food)
  • Chia Seeds (added to food)

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a fantastic and easy way to start a Mediterranean diet for arthritis. Studies revealed that a compound in the oil, called oleocanthal, prevents the production of pro-inflammatory COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes – the same way ibuprofen works. Researchers found that this compound had a significant impact not only on chronic inflammation but also on acute inflammatory processes. Try to incorporate 2-3 tablespoons daily to reap the benefits of olive oil.

Whole Grains 

Whole grains contain plenty of filling fiber – which can help you maintain a healthy weight while also benefitting arthritis treatments. Some studies have also shown that fiber and fiber-rich foods can lower blood levels of CRP, an inflammatory marker. Whole-wheat pasta and breads also have selenium, an antioxidant which, as we learned earlier, can protect cells from free-radical damage. Sometimes, it’s as easy as choosing brown rice over white rice. Just make sure that you get around six ounces of grains per day; at least three of which should come from whole grains. One ounce of whole grain would be equal to ½ cup cooked brown rice or one slice of whole-wheat bread.

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Health

3 Treatments to Help People With Moderate to Severe Eczema

3 Treatments to Help People With Moderate to Severe Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition millions around the world deal with. Aside from the slight discoloration it offers, eczema also has a tendency to create discomfort — whether it be a burning sensation, itching, or general soreness.

Alas, there are some ways in which bearers of eczema can effectively work on lessening symptoms. This piece will delve into some of the treatment measures one can take when battling with the aftermath of eczema and all that it brings to the table.

Calcineurin Inhibitors

Calcineurin inhibitors aren’t something you’d just run in and pick up at the local drug store. This treatment plan aims at altering one’s immunity system. The inflammation associated with eczema should (in theory) go down.

Topical creams do work well in this capacity (Eucrisa, Elidel, Protopic). However, they are normally prescription-only creams. One will need to get a doctor’s permission before applying this cream to their impacted area. It may take the patient a little while before fully getting used to these treatments. One could experience minor skin irritation, itching, and blistering on the skin. However, these potential side effects should subside after using the product a few times. Further your research on brands like Eucrisa.

Oral Medications

There are some people who simply don’t mesh well with topical creams. As an alternative, there are some oral medications which can work equally as well. Duly, this might be a better choice for those who have eczema in multiple regions of the body as opposed to one specific area.

Some of these drugs include Otrexup, Azasan, Myfortic, and Omnipred. However, doctors do suggest that these oral medications be taken both carefully and in moderation. Potential side effects with abusing these drugs may include kidney disease, high blood pressure, and nausea (among other risks).

Injectable Medications

Injectables are another common treatment. A drug called dupilumab, or Dupixent, was introduced roughly three years ago. The drug specifically works to eradicate more severe levels of eczema. When studying various trials, reports indicated that individuals with extreme levels of eczema saw symptoms clear up after approximately four months.

Dupixent along with Eucrisa are two of the most common treatments.

Image Source: Discover Magazine

 

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Health

Cancer Detection & Treatment

Cancer Detection
Cancer Detection

Unfortunately, millions of people are striken with cancer on an annual basis. There are many different types of cancer — all having specific warning signs and treatment plans.

This piece will look into six of the more common cancers found around the United States. Symptoms will be discussed — as will potential treatment options for each disease.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer can be particularly dangerous due to the lack of symptoms during early stages. In fact even in later stages, symptoms such as loss of appetite and weight loss don’t always point health care professionals towards cancer testing. It is easy for cases to slip through the cracks until the ovaries’ surrounding areas, at which point fatality rates increase dramatically and surgery may be necessary.

Surgeries for ovarian cancer can include the following:

  • Laparotomy
  • Omentectomy
  • Hysterectomy
  • Pelvic lymph node dissection

Colon Cancer

There are a number of symptoms associated with colon cancer. Weakness or general fatigue can exist — as can a random loss of weight. The appearance of blood in one’s stool can be a sign, as can constant changes in one’s bowel habits (whether constipated or the presence of diarrhea).

Here are some preventative measures:

  • Moderate intake of alcohol
  • No Smoking
  • Constant Exercise
  • Eating fruit, grains, and vegetables
  • Medications to reduce risk of polyps
  • Get colon scanned by age 50

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is something that includes a number of different symptoms. Frequent urination is one, as is the presence of blood in the urine. Another common trait includes frequently urinating at night. Duly, some also suffer from rather immediate bouts of erectile dysfunction. A weak or interrupted urine flow/the need to completely empty the bladder (by straining) is also something to be considered.

Treatment for prostate cancer can include the following:

  • Radiation Therapy
  • Cryotherapy
  • Hormone Therapy
  • Surgery
  • Active Surveillance

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is something that can appear in different forms. Some people deal with a lump/pain in the right side of one’s abdomen. Others deal with the literal yellowing of their skin. Other symptoms include a loss of appetite, general fatigue, white stools, and losing weight without trying to do so.

When it comes to treatments/prevention measures, here are some things to consider:

  • Minimize consumption of alcohol
  • Having a balanced diet
  • Surgery (Hepatectomy)
  • Liver Transplant
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation Therapy

Melanoma

There are a few noteworthy symptoms for melanoma. One aspect would include looking at the moles on one’s body. A sudden change in size, color, or shape could be an indication of something more serious. Duly, other symptoms include itchiness/tenderness/pain in certain areas of the skin/mole, a redness or swelling on the border of the spot with irritation, and sores that do not heal.

For one, those susceptible to a higher risk of melanoma can take preventative measures:

  • Use of Sunscreen
  • Covering Areas of The Body (arms, neck, legs)
  • Surgery

This involves the constant usage of sunscreen — as well as wearing clothing that covers the arms, legs, and head/neck area when heavy sun is present. From there, suspected melanoma can be diagnosed when a small skin sample is sent to a lab for testing. Normally, the main course of action is to have a surgical procedure to fully extract the melanoma from the skin. Depending on the stage of the problem, the surgery could become both more intrusive and more serious.

Breast Cancer

Sadly, approximations show that 1 in 8 U.S. women (roughly 12-percent) will develop breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. Duly, A man’s lifetime risk of potentially being diagnosed with breast cancer is 1 in 883.

Aside from age and gender, there are a number of factors which could contribute to an individual being diagnosed with breast cancer. As is the case with all cancers, a poor diet (high in fat) could increase one’s likelihood in getting breast cancer

In order to rid oneself of breast cancer, there are a number of options one could look into:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Lumpectomy
  • Mastectomy
  • Alternative Treatments (acupuncture, diet)

Some doctors will ask patients to undergo Chemotherapy (orally or injected drugs used to treat/kill cancer cells). These sessions could occur multiple times a week depending upon the severity of the disease.

In more severe cases, surgery can occur. A lumpectomy involves removing the tumor itself, along with smaller amounts of the tissue surrounding the impacted region. A mastectomy is a step further, as all of the breast tissue will be taken out. In addition to the treatments above, there are alternative treatments that help to alleviate symptoms (pain and swelling for example). These include acupuncture, massage, vitamin d, anti-inflammatory rich herbs and spices, and high fiber diets.

Lung Cancer

There are a number of symptoms most associated with lung cancer. Some of them include constant shortness of breath, bone pain, persistent headaches, chest pain, hoarseness, a cough that doesn’t go away, the gradual loss of weight, and the coughing up of blood (even in small quantities).

In terms of treatment, there are a few options:

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation Therapy
  • Alternative Medicine

Depending on the severity, surgery may be looked at as the desired means of helping to ward off the disease. Cancerous tissue will literally be cut from the lung.

Chemotherapy is also used in many cases. A plethora of drugs and medicine is used with the goal of killing off cancerous cells. Radiation therapy (high-energy rays) and targeted therapy (pills to stop growth/spread of cancerous cells) are two other alternatives. There are also alternative medicinal options — though a doctor should be consulted in these cases.

Image Source: Eduardo Parra/Europa Press via Getty Images

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Health

Liquid Diet Tips for Detox or Weight Loss

Making the decision to start a liquid diet may be the consequence of digestive issues, weight struggles or other reasons. It can be a great way to start fresh with a healthy detox, or it may stem from underlying concerns such as Crohn’s disease. But knowing the best way to start a liquid diet is always the safest route. In addition to the information you’ll find here, make sure to always consult a healthcare provider before making any major decisions that could affect your health (more than a meal or two).

Here are some tips for starting a liquid diet:

Overview

If you’ve been finding it difficult to maintain weight because of issues like diarrhea or simply for poor diet choices, then this may be why you’re considering a liquid diet. If this is the case, some dietitians recommend switching regular calories to ones you can drink instead. However, there are a few things that are important to get right with a liquid diet so that it doesn’t end up hurting more than helping.

 

Commercial Drinks

Crohn’s disease can be a major influencer in switching to a liquid diet. If your Crohn’s symptoms are under control, you could pair liquid drinks such as Ensure or Carnation Instant Breakfast along with a solid meal. It is recommended to drink 200-300 calories along with a regular meal to help keep up or add weight with underlying digestive issues. Always check for the healthiest options and make sure the sugar intake is not way above the daily recommended amount.

 

Make Your Own

Making your own liquid meal can save money and give you a lot of control over what goes into it. There are tons of recipes online for tasty liquid meals/smoothies. A simple one could start with milk (or your favorite replacement, i.e. soy, coconut, almond) and add Greek yogurt, protein powder, and a banana. You can make these blends any way you want, so make sure to scour the internet for the recipe that appeals to you most.

 

Limit Sugar

Whether you’re buying a pre-made blend or creating your own recipe, one thing stands true: sugar can sneak up on you. If you’re trying to lose weight, this can be a real pain. And if you’re starting a liquid diet due to digestive issues, a copious amount of sugar may not be the answer. To avoid this, look for liquid meals that contain calories from fat and protein. Some calories come from sugar, so be vigilant when looking at labels.

 

Get Your Vitamins

Sometimes if you’re getting a pre-made liquid meal, they will have the added perks of vitamins. But if you’re making liquid meals on your own, make sure that you aren’t skipping out on the nutritional value. You can either add in healthy sources of different vitamins like iron, zinc, vitamin B, etc. But if you’re not sure to do this, make sure you’re taking the vitamins recommended by your doctor.

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Health

The Best Online Retailers for The Perfect Yoga Pants

Yoga pants have become a way of life for individuals across the world. These tightly-fitting articles of clothing have seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the last decade. While constantly associated with yoga itself, yoga pants can be used for practically any type of exercise. Duly, there even a nice alternative for lounging around the home, running errands, or even travelling in.

To correspond with increase in demand, multiple online outlets have begun selling yoga pants. There are vast collections of inventory with ever color, size, and style imaginable. Individuals will feel good in knowing that there’s truly something for everyone as it pertains to yoga pants. While there are a multitude of manufacturers and online stores available, four stand out as prominent options: Fabletics, YogaOutlet, Alo Yoga, and Lululemon.

Fabletics

Fabletics is a company created by Hollywood actress Kate Hudson. This entity prides itself on having the best leggings in the world. Fabletics offers a VIP member program. This entitles customers to discounts across the board. One promotion on the website in particular enables new VIP members to purchase two sets of leggings for an affordable $24. Normally, the price range would equal $99. Detailed descriptions allow interested customers to read about the quality of the leggings — and thus how they cater to each individual body type.

YogaOutlet

Like Fabletics, YogaOutlet also offers customers a chance to be a part of a special program entitled Exclusive Member List. Customers can submit their email address, and will instantly receive 10-percent off their first purchase (in addition to weekly promotions, updates, and information on new products). YogaOutlet offers sales on not only clothing — but also mats and accessories. The clothing section in particular offers a number of exciting options at affordable prices.

Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga has long been known as one of the more popular online stores for yoga pants. A neatly defined drop-down menu enables customers to peruse leggings/pants based upon design, size, and color. There’s also a sales tab which showcases all yoga pants currently discounted in price. Alo Yoga not only boasts strong customer service marks, but it also has a reputation for producing quality apparel.

Lululemon

Lululemon is a leader among shopping for yoga pants — both online and in terms of in-store locations. Based in Vancouver, one can spot men and women all over the globe sporting Lululemon apparel. As it pertains to yoga pants, the company offers a wide variety. Virtually every pair of pants comes with three separate designs to choose from. This sort of customization and diversity truly does cater to the customer. There are more understated looks, and some with a bit more panache.

As one can see, there are a number of exciting online platforms from where customers can purchase yoga pants online.

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Health

4 Crucial Tips For Picking The Right Dentist

While many take it for granted, selecting the right dentist is an important step for any individual. Preserving oral health is integral to one’s collective health. This includes daily brushing, flossing, the utilization of mouth wash, and two in-office cleanings a year. Aside from attempting to prevent cavities, oral health is significant in warding off gum disease and the appearance of bacteria.

Whether one’s moved to a new town — or is in need of a new dentist — here are 4 methods to help select the perfect dentist:

Word of Mouth (no pun intended)

Getting a dentist recommendation from a trusted source — whether it’s a family member, neighbor, or co-worker — is significant. These are people who’d offer transparent and honest takes on the dentist in question. Even asking one’s physician isn’t the worst idea. Being able to suss through opinions through trustworthy confidants enables this process to be a bit more personal. When one personalizes something, extra levels of comfort invariably follow.

Dental Benefits

Normally, one’s dental health plan is offered through a place of employment. Depending upon that specific plan, a list of dentists are made available. For example, co-payment fees will be dissimilar when comparing both PPO plans and HMO networks. These will then offer the available choices for one’s dental journey.

Online Reviews

Yes, Yelp isn’t just used for reviewing that $17 arugula salad from last week’s lunch at a hipster hole-in-the-wall spot. Dental facilities and individual dentists are reviewed on a number of online publications. For example, one can filter down a list of dentists in their specific area with the simple click of a button. Letter grades, star ratings, and written reviews are valuable sifting through a long list of candidates. While one runs the risk of not personally knowing the writer of the said reviews, often times these assessments are candidly accurate.

Asking For A Consultation

After compiling a ton of research from various mediums, one may still feel unsure about booking an unknown dentist. As such, why not schedule an in-person consultation? This way, the interested party and the dental professional will have a chance to get to know one another through interpersonal dialogue. This then should offer the prospective customer a greater level of comfort. If the consultation goes smoothly, a dental appointment can be booked immediately. Should one not jive with the professional in question, additional consultations with other dentists can be arranged.

Selecting a medical professional for any task is far from a sure thing. Cultivating a level of trust with the said professional is key. The measures outlined above can offer the individual a fool-proof plan in trying to find the perfect dentist to fit one’s individual and personal needs.

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Health

5 Reasons To Consider Luxury Assisted Living

The decision to enter an assisted living situation may seem scary to some. After living one’s whole life independently, the thought of relying upon others can be both daunting and challenging. However, advancements in the field of luxury assisted living truly does make functioning a much easier process for millions of elderly people across the country.

Here are 5 reasons to consider a luxury assisted living situation:

Feasibility

As one gets older, the proposition of having to travel to visit doctors, family members, friends, and other types of commitment can be exhausting. The simple act of driving somewhere may be problematic in one’s later years. A luxury assisted living facility will aid in solving all of these potential issues. There are designated vehicles which offer residents transportation to visit family members, or even to run errands at a local business. Group trips include forays to the mall and other entertainment locations (such as the movie theater).

Health Care

At any luxury assisted living facility, an on-site doctor will be present. Other trained medical professionals will be available to help with most common illnesses — such as colds or the flu. Within the same token, there are staff members specifically hired to help with the distribution of medication. Managing one’s medication can be an annoyance — particularly when having to take different types of pills for specified needs. With these facilities, one can pop over to a designated area in order to take one’s scheduled slate of medications.

Spacious Living Accommodations

It may be difficult to say goodbye to your longstanding home — though there are plenty of spacious options made available. As would be the case for any apartment, there are different accouterments based upon the amount of money one’s willing to spend. It could include getting a smaller studio dwelling, or one with multiple bedrooms, a living room, and a full service kitchen. There have been known to be apartments north of 1,200 sq. ft.

Dining Options

Most luxury facilities will employ highly decorated chefs to create nutritious and decadent meals. Normally, a main dining area will house thousands of residents for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This also includes special dinners for holidays and other sorts of occasions. If one’s not feeling up to making the trip to the dining hall, employees are able to bring them food a la room service. If one’s looking for a snack in-between meals, a smaller kitchen will traditionally offer items to grab-and-go (such as a muffin or a piece of fruit).

Activities

There are a litany of activities for one to participate in during the day. For luxury assisted living facilities, this is a huge point of emphasis. Simply put, activities are made available for people with a wide range of interests. This includes in-home activities such as pottery, movie nights, prayer groups and card games, to ‘field trips’ outside the facility. For those who’re widows or widowers, these opportunities present a chance to garner special friendships. Lastly, these facilities feature the latest in exercise technology. Personal trainers can be procured — whether they’re for active workouts or physical therapy. More often than not, luxury assisted living facilities will have state-of-the-art fitness centers — fully complemented by expensive pieces of machinery dedicated to help with everyday flexibility and functionality.