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5 important things to know before buying pet insurance

5 important things to know before buying pet insurance
These days, pet owners face the dilemma of skyrocketing healthcare expenses for their furry friends. To navigate this challenge, pet owners can opt for pet insurance. This is a helpful way to cover veterinarian bills if your pet gets sick or injured. However, each policy may vary in cost and coverage. Furthermore, not all plans may suit one’s budget or the pet’s needs. Therefore, it is important to consider various aspects before finalizing a policy. Types of insurance plans and coverages Pet insurance plans are usually available in two types – comprehensive and limited-coverage plans. Limited coverage plans only cover emergencies, such as poisoning, bloat, and bites, whereas comprehensive plans offer coverage for various illnesses. Some comprehensive plans may also offer coverage for hereditary diseases and injuries. So, before purchasing a pet insurance policy, one must consider which type is best suited for the pet’s needs. Secondly, one must also check the other coverages that the policy offers. For instance, many pet insurance policies also offer coverage for annual health examinations, vaccinations, and routine dental procedures. The policy for pre-existing conditions Like insurance policies for humans, pet insurance policies also have strict guidelines about pre-existing conditions. It means that if one’s pet has been showing certain signs of injuries, illnesses, or any health conditions before the policy was purchased, that particular condition may not be covered.

6 signs one needs dental implants

6 signs one needs dental implants
Dental implants are a common long-term solution for missing teeth and even other dental issues, like injuries and aging-related bone loss, which can damage or weaken teeth. The implants are designed to look and work just like natural teeth so that they can easily replace damaged or missing teeth and even help restore tooth function. Dental implants also keep the jaw bone intact and help with tasks like eating and speaking. 1. Missing teeth One may lose teeth due to injury, poor dental hygiene, and even unhealthy lifestyle practices. Sometimes, severe tooth loss develops because of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. As a result, one may find it hard to chew their food. In such situations, dental implants can be a worthwhile solution, replacing the lost teeth and restoring functions like eating and speaking. The implants easily fill the gaps left by lost natural teeth and support the health of jaw bones. 2. Loose dentures Dentures can loosen up over time. So, they may slip or move around in the mouth, making it difficult to eat and speak. Additionally, this issue can make one feel worried that their dentures will fall off at any time.

Avoid these 8 foods that can trigger heartburn

Avoid these 8 foods that can trigger heartburn
Acid reflux, or heartburn, is a known symptom of common gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. The stomach contains digestive juices to break down foods and beverages. A separate muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter prevents these juices from moving out of the stomach. Heartburn develops when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing pain and irritation. It can be brought on by underlying health complications or the following trigger foods. Allium vegetables Onions, shallots, and garlic are all bulbous vegetables belonging to the allium family of plants. These vegetables are naturally high in fermentable fibers. Several studies suggest these fibers interact with the gut bacteria and trigger an increased production of stomach acid, which leaks into the esophageal cavity. Nutritionists suggest avoiding or limiting allium veggies to prevent acid reflux. Citrus fruits One should avoid citrus fruits when affected by GERD to prevent heartburn. Oranges, tomatoes, lemons, and limes are highly acidic in nature that disrupt the natural pH balance of the stomach acid. The digestive juices are forced to back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation. Fatty food Fats found in common foods and even some beverages take a while to digest. This results in the slow evacuation of foods from the stomach.

12 signs of constipation that shouldn’t be ignored

12 signs of constipation that shouldn’t be ignored
One of the most important functions of the human body is to expel waste material to ensure a healthier and more efficient digestive system. Unfortunately, about 16% of adults in the country grapple with constipation symptoms, characterized by difficulty passing stools regularly. Although the condition is typically not life-threatening, severe constipation may lead to health conditions like hemorrhoids and fecal impaction. Some early warning signs that indicate one may be constipated are listed below. Passage of stools less than thrice a week A tell-tale sign of constipation is infrequent passage of stools, defined as less than three bowel movements a week. Such infrequent bowel movements for an extended period can cause discomfort and loss of alertness, interfering with the ability to complete one’s daily activities. Hard, dry stools The colon muscles typically act slowly among constipation patients. Consequently, stools move through the colon more slowly than usual, causing excessive water absorption in the colon and hard, dry stools. For this reason, one needs to stay hydrated, especially when dealing with constipation symptoms. Gas and bloating Constipation is often accompanied by the accumulation of gas in the stomach, causing severe bloating and discomfort. At such times, it is advisable to avoid processed and deep-fried foods, replacing them with healthier alternatives like foods rich in insoluble fiber to give the body the push required to empty the bowels.

10 bathroom cleaning mistakes and tips to fix them

10 bathroom cleaning mistakes and tips to fix them
Maintaining a pristine bathroom can be challenging. It’s a space where cleanliness and hygiene are paramount, as it is used daily and is a breeding ground for germs, bacteria, and odors. However, many people unknowingly make common bathroom cleaning mistakes that can compromise the sanitation of this space. But there are simple ways to avoid these errors; following them can drastically change one’s cleaning game. Here are some mistakes and solutions to ensure optimal hygiene. Neglecting regular cleaning Bathrooms are high-traffic areas and require frequent attention. Failing to clean these spaces regularly can lead to grime, mold, and bacteria buildup, which can be challenging to remove later. Solution Establish a regular cleaning schedule. Aim to clean the bathroom at least once a week, and consider daily maintenance tasks such as wiping down surfaces and regularly emptying the trash. Using harsh chemical cleaners Many assume stronger chemicals mean better cleaning, but this is not always true. Using harsh chemicals, especially in enclosed spaces like bathrooms, can harm one’s health and the environment and damage surfaces and fixtures. Solution Opt for milder, eco-friendly cleaning products that are designed for bathroom use. Natural ingredients like lemon, baking soda, and vinegar can work wonders without posing health risks.

8 common signs of itchy skin

8 common signs of itchy skin
Itchy skin or pruritus is a sensation most people experience at some point. It is generally harmless and often annoying. However, if itchy skin persists continuously over a long period, it may indicate an underlying health condition. Also, if the itching occurs over the same body area and does not go away with simple remedies, one must consult their primary care doctor for a proper diagnosis. Here are some common signs of itchy skin that may require attention. Dry skin Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching. When the skin cells lose hydration, the top layer becomes dry and flaky, which leads to irritation and repeated itching to get relief. Dryness can occur due to cold weather or low humidity. Excessive bathing, frequent showering with hot water, and using harsh soaps may also cause the skin to lose its natural hydration, leading to itchiness. Rash or redness Another common sign of itchy skin is when rashes develop over the affected areas. There can be redness as well, which results from inflammation. These rashes and red patches will vary in shape and size. These are usually areas of intense itching that worsen unless treated properly. Such rashes may develop due to allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, insect bites, or infection.

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5 early Cyber Monday deals to expect in 2022

We are slowly heading toward Cyber Monday, the most exciting time of the year when you get the deepest discounts on almost all brands. It is a mega shopping event that follows Black Friday. But, with so many sales being advertised, how do you choose the right deals? Here is a quick review of the top offers we saw last year; expect to see similar or better ones at the start of the 2022 sale! Tech and electronics deals We all wait for the Cyber Monday sale to purchase that expensive gadget we have eyed all through the year. Apple is known to issue gift cards on select items during the shopping season when you buy products like MacBooks, AirPods, and Apple TVs. You can use these cards for future purchases and save money. Last year, Soul Electronics offered up to 30% off on select audio gear, with sales running till December. PhoneSoap offered up to 50% off sitewide on select products. Besides massive discounts on gadgets and accessories, these retailers throw in tons of warranties, free services, and other offers, making it the best time to visit for a tech upgrade. Home appliances deals Whether you want to redesign your home or buy a gift for someone special, Cyber Monday is the perfect time to pick up home appliances. You get the best deals on products of all kinds, including refrigerators, toasters, air conditioners, dishwashers, and more. Last year, AJ Madison offered up to 50% off on almost all appliances, and you could also have them delivered to your doorstep without an extra charge. You could also enjoy a flat discount of 20% or more on most appliances at Great Jones without the need for a code. KitchenAid is another brand that offered huge discounts, including 35% on select blenders, 25% on countertop appliances, and 30% on select food processors.

6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

It has become the norm to keep ornamental at home, especially since they beautify the space tremendously. But, if you are a pet parent, you must exercise caution in picking the potted plants you want. While some plants can cause vomiting or dysentery, a few can cause respiratory, digestive, neurological, or cardiac problems, leading to death. If you have become a pet parent recently, here are six plants toxic to dogs to note: 6 plants that dog parents must take note of Sago palm Sago palm is a very popular ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor spaces. It is known by many names like coontie palms or cardboard palms and is part of the Cycads group of plants. It contains multiple toxins, including cycasin and BMAA. Every part of the sago palm is toxic for your dogs, and the seeds can be the most dangerous. If a dog ingests even a small amount of any part of a sago palm plant, it can affect its nervous system, liver, or gastrointestinal system. You may see symptoms within 15 minutes or many hours. The most common reaction is gastrointestinal irritation, with initial symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lead to serious complications like neurological problems, resulting in weakness, seizures, and tremors. If your dog has accidentally ingested any part of this plant, it is imperative to visit the vet immediately and begin an aggressive treatment and decontamination process. Castor bean plant The castor bean plant is a pretty-looking wild plant; the oil from its seeds is used as a remedy for constipation. Some also use it as an outdoor decor plant. However, if you are a dog parent, you should avoid having it in your home, as the castor bean is quite toxic to dogs. Dogs tend to get attracted to the pods and relish the bean, which contains ricin, a lethal toxin.

Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Fashion trends are dynamic and go through constant change and innovation. While some styles have remained timeless for decades, some trends fail to impress and disappear without making an impact. The approach to beauty today focuses on sustainability, minimalism, inclusion, and no cruelty. The trends in beauty and fashion quite naturally follow similar lines. Based on these factors, some of the top beauty and fashion trends in the coming year are as follows: Skincare The buzzword in the last couple of years has been minimalism, especially for skin care. Women prefer to use lesser products for their skincare routines. Utilizing a bevy of cosmetics for everyday skin nourishment and enhancement is time-consuming, overwhelming, and may affect the skin negatively. Skincare trends focus on improving skin health and reducing the negative impact of long-term use of skin-related products. This move hopes to reduce the overuse of skincare and control the damage caused by chemical products. Microbiome skincare is a new trend, featuring prebiotic and probiotic components that nourish the skin. Hybrid beauty Hybrid cosmetics combine multiple active ingredients that now work both as skin care products and as cosmetics. It reduces the time one spends on beauty routine and the number of products one needs to buy, saving money, effort, and time. Hybrid products not only treat and protect skin blemishes but also enhance the skin as they contain a layer of makeup. Beauty Balm and Color or Complexion correction are two of the early hybrid beauty products. New products that combine skincare and cosmetics to correct acne, pigmentation, and wrinkles are likely to be the trend in hybrid beauty. Wellness products With the rising awareness of the overlapping impact of wellness and beauty on each other, there is a demand for new products and services that care for how one looks and feels.

4 timeless jewelry pieces every woman must own

Every woman, irrespective of age, uniquely expresses her fashion style. And accessories play an important role in the manner of expression. If you think that classic metal or gemstone jewelry is expensive or unsuitable for everyday use, it’s time to change your opinion. Some must-own timeless jewelry pieces can never go out of style. They instantly amp up your look no matter the outfit and garner eyeballs wherever you go. Make these exquisite jewelry options yours now. Stud earrings Stud earrings are dainty yet elegant pieces of jewelry. They fit quite well on the top of your ear, emitting the right amount of sheen. It has a singular point with a post that passes through the pierced ear, connected through a backing or a clutch behind the ear. The stud, the main part of the earning, can be made of bare metal like gold, silver, or platinum and/or hold a gemstone like a diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, coral, or pearl. The size of the stud and the type of stone could determine the price of the pair of earrings. While stud earrings made with precious stones can be expensive, you can opt for those affordable options with semiprecious stones like turquoise, rose quartz, or garnets. These exquisite and versatile baubles must be a part of your jewelry collection. Whether you pair them with chunkier pieces of necklaces for festive occasions or dainty bracelets for casual outings, you are sure to turn heads. Pendant necklaces A pendant necklace is a versatile piece of jewelry that can tone down or highlight your fashion style. You can choose an everyday necklace made of bare metal like tungsten, gold, sterling silver, white gold, titanium, or platinum. While some necklaces come with fixed pendants, some can be customized with your choice of charms or pendants.

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6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023

6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023

Are you looking for a safe, reliable SUV for your family? Look no further. Some of the best SUVs for 2023 come with advanced technology, superior driver assistance features, and safety equipment. They can protect the driver and occupants in a collision and lower the impact of the crash. From luxury to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone. So here are the safest SUVs you can find this year: Dodge Hornet The 2023 Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV that prioritizes safety and reliability. The Hornet has advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The interior of the Hornet has premium materials and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. You also get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Hornet is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 268-hp engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The SUV strikes a balance between power and efficiency and delivers good performance. You can look up “Local Dodge dealers near me” and find dealerships that sell the Hornet. You will be able to find great deals on new and used models at a local dealership.
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Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Fashion trends are dynamic and go through constant change and innovation. While some styles have remained timeless for decades, some trends fail to impress and disappear without making an impact. The approach to beauty today focuses on sustainability, minimalism, inclusion, and no cruelty. The trends in beauty and fashion quite naturally follow similar lines. Based on these factors, some of the top beauty and fashion trends in the coming year are as follows: Skincare The buzzword in the last couple of years has been minimalism, especially for skin care. Women prefer to use lesser products for their skincare routines. Utilizing a bevy of cosmetics for everyday skin nourishment and enhancement is time-consuming, overwhelming, and may affect the skin negatively. Skincare trends focus on improving skin health and reducing the negative impact of long-term use of skin-related products. This move hopes to reduce the overuse of skincare and control the damage caused by chemical products. Microbiome skincare is a new trend, featuring prebiotic and probiotic components that nourish the skin. Hybrid beauty Hybrid cosmetics combine multiple active ingredients that now work both as skin care products and as cosmetics. It reduces the time one spends on beauty routine and the number of products one needs to buy, saving money, effort, and time.
Read More