Osteoporosis is what occurs when more bone gets broken down than replaced, resulting in brittle bones, or easily breaking bones, weaker grip strength, back or neck pain, receding gums, weak or brittle finger nails, stooped posture, and more. There are some medications and treatments that can help reduce these symptoms such as Evenity, Forteo, Fosamax, Prolia, and Boniva, but one of the best ways to improve bone strength is through your diet. Just as there are some foods you should eat more of, there are some foods you should try to avoid entirely. Here are 5 foods to avoid to keep osteoporosis at bay:
1. High sodium foods
High sodium foods can result in a loss in calcium in your body, the mineral associated with healthy bones and teeth. With a lack of calcium, you will suffer from bone loss, causing your bones to become weak and you to develop osteoporosis. Processed foods and canned foods are typically very high in sodium, so make sure to read your labels and try seasoning your food with spices as opposed to added salt.
2. Wheat bran
Wheat bran contains what’s known as phytates, something considered an anti-nutrient that makes it harder for your body to absorb calcium and other essential nutrients. Try to avoid too much of this in your diet, and if you take calcium supplements, wait about 2 or more hours before eating 100% wheat bran to allow your body to absorb it properly.
3. Alcohol
Heavy drinking can lead to bone loss by interfering with bone growth and the replacement of bone tissue. What’s more, it decreases the amount of calcium your body can absorb and can have an effect on your pancreas and vitamin D metabolism, which in turn impacts bone density.
4. Caffeine
Caffeine filled drinks, including coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks, can decrease calcium absorption, thus contributing to bone loss and potentially causing osteoporosis. Opt for decaf drinks instead and try sparkling water instead of soda.
5. Sugary treats
Cakes, candy, cookies, and other highly sweet foods might help your sweet tooth, but they certainly don’t help your bones. Sugary foods often don’t contain many nutrients, and consuming too much doesn’t leave any room for you to consume the foods and nutrients that matter. Eat these treats in moderation and be sure not to go overboard on the sweets.
Like a good watch or a pair of dark-washed jeans, the right pair of sunglasses can complement any look. Immediately practical and indulgent, a new pair of shades is just the right purchase to prepare you for warmer weather and longer days. If you want your sunglasses to last, skip the drug-store glasses and Ray-Ban Facebook knockoffs and invest in real quality.
This season’s trends have brought a re-emergence of classic styles along with some bold departures for the more daring gentlemen. Below are five of our favorites:
1. AO Eyewear Original Pilots
A favorite of US Air Force pilots, these classic glasses are fit just about any face shape. Engineered to military specifications, they’re durable enough to stand up to a good bit of abuse. The American Optical website offers customization options for the pair you choose, including size, frame finish and lens color. Any brand used by the military is a safe bet in terms of quality and durability; these glasses have the additional benefit of looking great.
2. Persol PO3019S
These classic shades are timeless and versatile enough to be worn in any season. Known for their high quality and perfect fit, Persol’s glasses are made with crystal-tempered lenses that create no vision distortion. Persol manages to be classy with being pretentious, a hard middle ground to maintain.
3. Ray-Ban Clubmaster Classic
Ray-Bans became a bit of a trend in the earlier 2000’s, but they’ve always been an American classic. The Clubmaster design is a great option for men as its boxy design adds great structure and angularity to the face. The Clubmaster is at once youthful, fun and intellectual. Ray-Ban is the classic American symbol of the refined bad boy; these shades are a great way to celebrate summer in a refined way.
4. Randolph Engineering Concordes
One of the pricier options on the list, the Concordes are a great option to splurge on. These shades are named after the famous Concorde airliner, the jet that could fly between London and New York in record time. Designed with an air of international flavor and class, these glasses are built to military spec in a classic Aviator style. Including 23 karat gold options as well as a lifetime warranty, these glasses can last for a lifetime if cared for properly. If you’ve always liked the class and style of private pilots, these glasses are a great fit for you.
5. Oakley Holbrook
Oakleys have a reputation among snowboarder bros and Monster Energy-drinkers, but they live beyond the stereotype. The Holbrook is a great, conservative design with a boxy frame that makes most guy’s faces look great. As Oakley is a brand known for its technology, these glasses include the signature Oakley HDO optics which promise to give distortion-free vision.
Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are a group of disorders caused by poorly formed blood cells or ones that don’t work properly. The MDS life expectancy varies greatly from patient to patient, depending on several factors, including age, overall health, and how well the disease responds to treatment. One of the major complications of MDS is that it can cause anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS to seek early treatment. Here are ten signs that may indicate the presence of this disease.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of MDS is fatigue. This is primarily due to anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued, it might be worth discussing with your doctor.
2. Shortness of breath
Another sign of MDS can be shortness of breath, especially during physical activities. This symptom is also related to anemia, as your body isn’t getting enough oxygen due to a lack of red blood cells.
3. Frequent infections
MDS can cause your white blood cell count to drop, making you more susceptible to infections. If you find that you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign of MDS.
4. Easy bruising or bleeding
If you notice that you’re bruising easily or bleeding more than usual, it could be a sign of MDS. This is because MDS can affect your platelet count, which is responsible for blood clotting.
5. Skin paleness
Anemia, a common complication of MDS, can cause your skin to look paler than usual. This is due to the lack of red blood cells, which give your skin its color.
Now that we’ve covered the warning signs, let’s look at some FDA-approved treatments for MDS.
6. Blood transfusions
Blood transfusions are often used to treat anemia in people with MDS. This involves receiving healthy blood from a donor to increase your red blood cell count.
7. Medications
Several medications can be used to treat MDS, including growth factors to stimulate your body to make more blood cells, and immunosuppressive drugs to help your body accept these new cells.
8. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to kill off abnormal cells in your bone marrow. This can help to slow the progression of MDS and alleviate some symptoms.
9. Stem cell transplant
A stem cell transplant involves replacing your diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow from a donor. This can potentially cure MDS, but it’s a complex procedure with significant risks.
10. Supportive care
Supportive care involves managing the symptoms of MDS, such as fatigue and shortness of breath. This can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS and seek treatment early. With the right care, it’s possible to manage this disease and maintain a good quality of life.
Life insurance is a critical safety net for many individuals, especially those over 50 or seniors who want to ensure their loved ones are financially secure after they’re gone. But it’s essential to understand that not all situations are covered by life insurance policies. Here are seven things that life insurance does not typically cover.
1. Fraudulent information
One of the key aspects insurance companies look at when underwriting a policy is the honesty of the information provided. If you have lied or omitted important information on your application, your insurer can deny your beneficiaries’ claim. Always be honest and thorough when applying for life insurance.
2. Suicide within the exclusion period
Most life insurance policies include a clause that excludes coverage for suicide within the first two years of the policy. This period may vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy, but it’s a standard exclusion across the industry.
3. Death from risky activities
If you regularly engage in high-risk activities such as skydiving, mountain climbing, or extreme sports, your life insurance policy may not cover death resulting from these activities. It’s crucial to disclose these hobbies when applying for insurance, as failing to do so could result in a denied claim.
4. Death in a war zone
Many life insurance policies exclude coverage for death occurring in a war zone. If you are a military personnel or a civilian working in a conflict area, you may need to seek a special policy or rider to cover this risk.
5. Illegal activities
If the policyholder dies while committing an illegal activity, the life insurance claim will likely be denied. This can include anything from driving under the influence to participating in criminal activities.
6. Certain health conditions
While life insurance for over 50 and life insurance for seniors are generally available, certain health conditions may not be covered. This is especially true for policies with a graded death benefit, which only pays out the full benefit if the policyholder lives a certain number of years after purchasing the policy.
7. Acts of God
Some life insurance policies may not cover deaths caused by acts of God, such as natural disasters. However, this exclusion is less common than others and can vary significantly between insurance companies and policies.
Now that you know what life insurance typically does not cover, it’s important to find a reliable provider. Some of the top companies that provide life insurance include New York Life, MetLife, Prudential Financial, and State Farm. These companies offer a variety of policies, including term life, whole life, and universal life insurance.
Remember, life insurance is a crucial part of financial planning, especially for those over 50 or seniors. Make sure to thoroughly read and understand your policy, and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent or company any questions you may have. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your loved ones’ financial future.
Embarking on home improvement projects is a rewarding journey that can elevate your living space and enhance its functionality. From addressing water damage with companies that clean up water in the basement to upgrading roofing and gutters, and even considering Anderson window replacement, these hacks are designed to transform your home seamlessly. In this article, we explore seven ingenious home improvement hacks that will breathe new life into your living space.
1. Water damage prevention and cleanup
Companies that specialize in cleaning up water in the basement play a crucial role in preventing and addressing water damage. Protect your home from potential disasters by addressing leaks, floods, or excess moisture promptly. Investing in professional services ensures a thorough cleanup and mitigation of water-related issues, preserving the structural integrity of your home.
2. Roofing and gutters upgrade
Upgrading your roofing and gutters is a fundamental home improvement hack that protects your property from the elements. Consider durable roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or architectural tiles. Additionally, ensure your gutters are clean and well-maintained to prevent water damage and potential leaks. Regular inspections and prompt repairs contribute to the longevity of your roof and the overall health of your home.
3. Anderson window replacement
Enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency with Anderson window replacement. Anderson windows are renowned for their quality and durability. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows not only improves insulation but also adds a timeless and elegant touch to your interior and exterior spaces. The investment in high-quality windows pays off in energy savings and increased home value.
4. Creative storage solutions
Maximize your living space by incorporating creative storage solutions. Utilize under-the-stair storage, built-in shelving, or multifunctional furniture to optimize every square foot. These solutions not only declutter your home but also add a touch of innovation to your decor, making your living space both functional and stylish.
5. Smart home technology integration
Embrace the future of home living by integrating smart home technology. From smart thermostats and lighting to security systems, these technologies enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Smart home devices can be easily controlled through mobile apps, providing remote access and customization options to suit your lifestyle.
6. DIY painting projects
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most transformative and cost-effective home improvement hacks. Whether it’s an accent wall, a room makeover, or refreshing exterior surfaces, painting projects can instantly breathe new life into your home. Experiment with different colors and finishes to create a personalized and updated look.
7. Energy-efficient lighting upgrades
Switching to energy-efficient lighting options is not only environmentally conscious but also financially savvy. Replace outdated incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL alternatives to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, consider installing motion sensor lights in outdoor areas for enhanced security and energy efficiency.
Embarking on home improvement projects is an exciting endeavor that allows you to tailor your living space to your preferences and needs. From addressing water damage with professional cleanup services to upgrading roofing and gutters, considering Anderson window replacement, and embracing creative storage solutions, these home improvement hacks offer practical and innovative ways to transform your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance aesthetics, increase energy efficiency, or optimize functionality, these hacks provide a roadmap for a more comfortable and stylish living environment.
