The pristine beauty of nature is best explored by a backpacker. Choosing paths and locations which are offbeat and quiet; away from civilization with an option to stay amidst natural surroundings is what you enjoy when you choose to stay in backcountry lodges.
If you are a frequent backpacker, you are well aware of the trouble of carrying a huge backpack with all essentials. In addition to your clothing, you need to carry a good number of utilities that include a bed, stove and much more.
The backcountry lodges can lighten your load. Their vantage location not only promises breathtaking views but also offer beds, wood burning stoves, and at times, wait staff as well. Located in rustic surroundings, they offer you the necessities that you would need while on a backpacking trip.
Here are four of the the best backcountry lodges.
Located in Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana gives unobstructed views of the Gallatin River Valley. Take the Garnet Mountain National Recreational trail and hike up 3.5 km and you will reach this two storied lodge. It offers bunk beds with mattresses, two burner stoves plus a wood burning stove as well.
Located in Yosemite National Park, in proximity to the Ostrander Lake, this stone hut is the perfect stay option for skiers and offers breathtaking views. It’s a hard trek indeed. Open only in winter; there are 25 bunks on offer on the bottom floor with an open kitchen. The huntmaster who stays upstairs can help you out.
Overlooking the Talkeetna Mountains in Alaska, the cabin is located on the edge of a bowl. Accessed after an 8-mile trek across moss carpeted meadows and rivers of snowmelt, you can make this cabin as your base camp before you set to conquer the mountains or explore the Mint Glacier, which is half a mile away. Open only to members of the Alaska Mountaineering Club, the cabin offers an 8-person occupancy, with a two-burner stoves, cookware, beds and a composting toilet as well.
If you have set out on a Colorado trail, this is where you must head to. A little more than a 2-hour drive from Denver, you leave behind the crowds and set foot amidst 12000 feet high peaks, dense conifers, unnamed lakes and lots of moose. Drive a 1.5-mile distance through a forest service road to reach the twin wooden cabins. Just a mile away is the Lake Agnes. Each of these huts can accommodate six persons. You’re privy to a well-stocked kitchenette equipped with a wood burning stove.
The next time you head out on a backpacking trip, make your reservations in one of these backcountry lodges and explore the virgin landscape.
Liver cancer, as the name suggests, is the cancer that begins in the liver cells. There are many types of cancers associated with the liver, out of which, hepatocellular carcinoma is the most commonly found cancer. A cancer is termed liver cancer only when it starts in the liver, other cancers that have spread to the liver over the time are known as metastatic cancer. Unfortunately, an overview of liver cancer will tell you that cancers that spread to the liver from other organs are more common than the cancers that start in the liver.
Liver cancer happens when liver cells mutate their DNA. One of the outcomes of this process is that cells start growing rapidly resulting in a single tumor or multiple tumors. It is very difficult to understand the causes of liver cancer. Not every case comes with a reason but one very common reason is an infection by a type of hepatitis virus. Following are some of the high risk factors associated with liver cancer-
A chronic infection caused by hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus increases the risk of liver cancer.
Liver cirrhosis is a progressive and irreversible condition, which increases the chance of getting liver cancer.
Inherited liver diseases increase a person’s chance of suffering from liver cancer. Two of these diseases are hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease.
People suffering from high blood sugar are more prone to suffering from cancer as compared to people who do not have blood sugar.
A fatty liver is prone to cancer.
Aflatoxins are molds that grow on crops stored in poor conditions. These are poisonous chemicals that increase the risk of liver cancer.
Alcohol can be very harmful for the liver. It can lead to irreversible liver damage and tremendously increases the risk of liver cancer.
The most unfortunate fact about liver cancer is that most people do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of cancer. The symptoms start showing after the disease has progressed to a certain level. Some of the most common symptoms are-
A person with the above mentioned symptoms is believed to have liver cancer. To further confirm the diagnosis and the stage of cancer, doctors undertake a few procedures that give them an overview of liver cancer.
Liver cancer is a dangerous disease because in most cases it is not detected in the early stages. Even when detected on time and treated, liver cancer might not get treated completely and needs frequent follow-ups. It is best to consult a doctor before making any decision.
With the winter season looming, you might be one of many who are planning to go somewhere warm for the holidays. Whether you are looking into a Turks and Caicos beaches booking, or a Bahamas booking, it may be in your best interest to look into cruise travel this year. However, eating on a cruise ship should be something you want to prepare yourself for first. Here is a list of 5 cruise food pitfalls to avoid:
1. Too much spice
Cruise ship dining often offers a wide variety of international cuisines, and while this can be exciting, it’s essential to be mindful of the spice levels in your meals. The chefs on board may use different spice blends and seasonings than you’re used to, and overindulging in spicy foods can lead to discomfort or digestive issues. To avoid this pitfall, start with milder dishes and gradually explore spicier options as your palate adjusts. Ask the waitstaff for recommendations if you’re unsure about a dish’s spice level.
2. Forgetting to drink water
With all the tempting food and beverages available on a cruise, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and discomfort during your trip. Make a habit of drinking water regularly, and consider carrying a refillable water bottle to ensure you have access to fresh water throughout the day. Hydrating between alcoholic or sugary drinks is especially important to keep you feeling your best.
3. Open-air dining options
Cruise ship buffets are notorious for their tempting array of dishes, but they can lead to overindulgence and unhealthy choices if you’re not careful. To avoid this pitfall, survey the buffet before loading up your plate. Opt for a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid mindlessly piling on high-calorie items and save room for desserts in moderation. It’s also a good idea to use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
4. Too much alcohol
Cruise vacations often include tempting drink packages, but it’s easy to overindulge in alcoholic beverages. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a host of problems, including dehydration, seasickness, and poor decision-making. To avoid this pitfall, set a personal limit for the number of drinks you’ll have each day and make sure to pace yourself. Opt for non-alcoholic alternatives or enjoy a mocktail to savor the experience without overdoing it.
5. Piling on the pub grub
Cruise ships often have enticing pub-style or fast-food options available, such as burgers, hot dogs, and fried foods. While indulging in these treats occasionally is part of the cruise experience, overeating them can lead to digestive discomfort and weight gain. Be mindful of portion sizes and balance your meals with healthier options from the ship’s buffet or dining rooms. Consider having a lighter meal before enjoying some pub grub to curb your appetite.
By being aware of these cruise food pitfalls and taking a thoughtful approach to your dining choices, you can fully enjoy your cruise vacation without experiencing unwanted discomfort or health issues. Bon appétit, and bon voyage!
Health insurance protects you from unexpected, high medical costs that cover things like vaccines, screenings, check-ups, prescription drugs, emergency services, rehabilitative services, and so on. There are many options for health insurance, including Aetna Medicare Insurance, Cigna Medicare, Humana Insurance Plans, Mutual of Omaha—there are different layers of Medicare, ranging from affordable Medicare with less coverage or more expensive Medicare with more coverage. There are many common mistakes people make when purchasing health care, so read on to know what you should watch out for:
1. Not knowing what’s covered
Oftentimes, individuals purchasing health insurance don’t consider what each of the policies cover, when you can use each policy, and what you may have to pay for yourself. There are limitations on what is covered, and without doing the proper research, you may be left paying for a lot of healthcare situations out-of-pocket, leaving you wondering if you choose the right plan.
2. Not having enough coverage
As your life changes, minimal health insurance coverage probably won’t cut it. If you buy a home, get married, have children, etc., your income and budget will change, and so should your healthcare plan. Be sure that you have the right amount of insurance for your specific needs, and do it sooner than later. You’re more likely to get approved for higher coverage when you’re in good health, so don’t wait, and it will bring you some peace of mind for the future.
3. Hiding accurate medical history
Many individuals think that by concealing their medical history out of fear of higher premiums or being rejected. However, health insurance plans are built on the good faith in the information provided, and by lying or hiding something, you risk being denied insurance claims later on. While disclosing medical history may result in a slightly higher premium, it will prevent the possibility of future claim rejection, so save yourself the trouble and be honest.
4. Investing in health insurance only during old age
Contrary to popular belief, health insurance is not just for the elderly. A medical emergency cannot be predicted, and being young doesn’t exclude you from any potential issues. By investing early on, you can avoid any wealth erosion by having to pay out of pocket for medical expenses. In fact, policies for those under the age of 45 often are easy to obtain and have a lower premium payment.
Having depression can require different forms of treatment, such as therapy, visiting depression treatment facilities, getting online depression counseling therapy, or taking medications. Some medications that a doctor may prescribe are TRINTELLIX (vortioxetine), VRAYLAR (cariprazine), FETZIMA (levomilnacipran), Wellbutrin (Bupropion), AUVELITY, VIIBRYD (vilazodone HCI), and REXULTI (brexpiprazole). Another part of treatment is also self care, which includes what you are consuming in terms of foods. Avoid things like refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and saturated fats. There are lots of ways to ensure your diet includes good carbs, like fruits, vegetables and foods high in fiber, vitamins and supplements, such as Omega-3s, Vitamin D, and Selenium, but here is a more comprehensive list of foods that can help you manage your depression:
1. Apples
Everyone heard this as a kid: an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and there is a reason for that. Apples are very high in antioxidants, which can help to repair oxidation damage and inflammation. They also help to balance blood sugar swings because they are full of soluble fiber. You can grab an apple on the go in the mornings, or slice them up with some almond butter for an afternoon snack.
2. Avocados
Avocados are a super brain food that contain healthy fat which keeps your brain functioning smoothly. They are also very low in sugar and high in dietary fiber, and contain 4 grams of protein. You can add a whole avocado to any meal, breakfast, lunch or dinner.
3. Berries
You can have a variety of berries for breakfast every day; raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. All are very high in antioxidants, some of the highest available to us. Antioxidants are amazing warriors who can not only lower your depressive symptoms, but also prevent other illnesses and diseases, such as cancer.
4. Beans
Beans can actually mitigate cravings for processed grains and other types of breads, and can help to level out your blood sugar levels. They also act as anti-diabetes and weight loss foods, which is another huge win.
5. Dark leafy greens
The foods with the most powerful immune-boosting and anticancer effects are dark leafy greens, such as kale, spinach and swiss chard. They are the healthiest and most nutrient dense foods available to us. So throw some salad onto your daily food menu.
6. Mushrooms
Mushrooms work as a probiotic, promoting healthy gut bacteria. They also even out your mood because of their ability to lower blood sugar levels. Needless to say, mushrooms are great for our mental and intestinal health.
7. Onions
Eating onions and other allium vegetables, like garlic or leeks, are beneficial to your gut health which connects to your mood and overall mental wellbeing. Onions are known for their high concentrations of anti-inflammatory flavonoid antioxidants, which helps to fuel the anticancer properties in them.
8. Tomatoes
Many medical studies show that patients with depression also have a folate deficiency, and tomatoes are packed with folic acid. Folic acid is something that actually fights off depression, so it’s a great idea to add tomatoes, whether they’re big garden tomatoes or baby tomatoes, into your salad.
9. Walnuts
Walnuts also show up in medical studies to help reduce symptoms of depression because of their mood-boosting Omega-3 fatty acids. They also support brain function, so make sure to grab a handful of walnuts to snack on every day.
10. Seeds
There are several types of seeds you can reach for instead of a bag of chips, that will increase your source of Omega-3s; chia seeds, hemp seeds, flaxseeds or sunflower seeds are all great options to consume to help alleviate depressive symptoms.
