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Overview – Thyroid Health

Of the many glands that we have in our bodies, the thyroid is one of the most important ones. This gland is a little butterfly-shaped gland that rests at the bottom of our necks, just below the Adam’s apple, at the front of the windpipe.

Maintaining optimal thyroid health is extremely essential because it is the thyroid that is responsible for producing master metabolism hormones and controls almost every function in our bodies, along with influencing almost every single of our cells. In children, this gland is responsible to a great extent to healthy growth and development. So, it is not hard to tell why maintaining good thyroid health is important.

Here’s an overview of the thyroid health-

The thyroid gland produces three main types of hormones-

  • Diiodothyronine (T2)
  • Triiodothyronine (T3)
  • Thyroxine (T4)

These hormones produced by your thyroid gland interact with other hormones in your body like cortisol, insulin, estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. Any flux in your thyroid and the rest of these hormones are directly affected, too. A few commonly known conditions due to an imbalanced thyroid are-

  • Goiter

    In this condition, the thyroid swells up.

  • Thyroiditis

    In this condition, the thyroid is inflamed.

  • Hyperthyroidism

    In this condition, the thyroid gland is overactive.

  • Hypothyroidism

    In this condition, the thyroid gland is underactive.

  • Graves disease

    This is an autoimmune disease that is caused due to an over-stimulated thyroid. Graves disease can also lead to hyperthyroidism.

  • Thyroid nodule

    This is a condition, where there is an abnormal growth in the thyroid gland.

  • Thyroid storm

    This is a rare form of hyperthyroidism wherein extremely high levels of thyroid secretion leads to severe illnesses.

  • Thyroid cancer

    Although uncommon, thyroid cancer does exist and is thankfully curable.

Since there are so many chances of things going amiss with our thyroid gland, here are a few things we can do in order to maintain optimal thyroid health-

  • Eat iodine rich foods

    Iodine rich foods are probably one of the most effective ways of avoiding an imbalanced thyroid. It also acts as an anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, and anti-cancer agent. Therefore, stocking up on foods that are rich in iodine is a good way of steering clear from thyroid problems.

  • Handle stress well

    Stress is a major trigger of thyroid. Therefore, effectively managing your stress levels can help a great deal when dealing with thyroid issues. Include in your regime yoga, a vacation, painting, counseling, or whatever that works for you.

  • Try and reduce your exposure to toxins

    Air and water contaminants are also a major causal factor of an imbalanced thyroid. Make sure to filter both your air and water in order to avoid any thyroid-related diseases.

  • Get enough sleep

    We cannot stress how important this is in maintaining optimal thyroid health. A good seven-eight hours of restful sleep goes a long way in ensuring that your thyroid functions at its optimal best.

  • Exercise

    This could be any form of physical activity like running, brisk walking, swimming or even cycling. Exercise ensures that your thyroid levels are balanced, thus keeping you at bay from any diseases of physiological imbalances.

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If you suffer from addiction, living a sober lifestyle is a lifelong journey. For many, the first step is admitting there’s a problem and voluntarily entering a 28 or 60 day alcohol and drug treatment rehabilitation program. Many individuals enter inpatient rehab centers by their own accord, but with a lot of feelings of anger, shame, fear, animosity, and guilt. Inpatient rehabilitation centers differ greatly,. Some offer spa like settings, while other offer residents the opportunity to get in touch with nature. Additionally, each patient’s rehabilitation process is very personal with a treatment plan that aims to focus on their addiction and unique needs. However, the greater goal of all drug and alcohol addiction centers is to offer a 24-hour support network to give patients the skills needed to live a sober lifestyle once they leave rehab using these techniques:

1. Treatment intake or initiation process
When a patient enters a professional alcohol and drug rehab program, they begin the recovery journey. Treatment intake marks their introduction to a professional treatment program, where they’re met by a certified counselor who may ask them the following questions to get an understanding of their addiction and unique needs:

  • A one-on-one consultation – to assess the patient’s addiction and rehab goals.
  • Patient history – to get an understanding of any underlying issues  (i.e., health or psychological issues, depression, stressors, abuse, etc.) that may help identify how and when the addiction started.
  • Substance usage – to assess the severity of the addiction and create a treatment plan.
  • Complete physical examination – to determine when the patient last used.  
  • Detox test – those who test positive for alcohol or drugs will undergo detox.
  • Check in – where all personal luggage and belongings are checked for contraband (i.e., drugs, alcohol, weapons, cell phones, etc.).

2. Detoxification process
An addiction is the body’s dependence (both mentally and physically) on drugs or alcohol. This is why rehabilitation centers put residents through a monitored inpatient detox in order to safely oversee physical withdrawal. The detox process can last anywhere between a few days to a week with the most severe symptoms occurring within the first 24 to 48 hours. Side effects of detox are painful and can be life-threatening, which is why detox can include giving the patient supervised substances and medications to make the process safe as possible while continuously monitoring physical and mental health.

3. Rehabilitation and recovery process
Substance abuse rehabilitation programs offer a closely followed schedule that provides patients structure while aiming to alter abusive-behaviors. For instance, patients are required to wake up at the same time every day, eat balanced meals, and participate in counselling, group therapy, 12-step programs, and other therapies (i.e., exercise, art, music, etc.). This supportive, therapeutic atmosphere challenge their addiction honestly and realistically by identifying toxic patterns, behaviors, and relationships while providing skills and education to help them return to sober, post-rehab life.

The recovery doesn’t end after the patient’s time in inpatient rehab has completed. However, the skills and techniques learned in rehab aim to help the patient live a sober lifestyle. Patients leaving rehab may return to stressful environments (i.e., work, social lives, and family) that may threaten their sobriety by triggering addictive behaviors, which is why rehab will set the stage for long-term support outside of the facility—including daily or weekly check-ins, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, support groups, and ongoing counselling with a substance abuse professional.

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fashion

Fashion is such an individualized thing. Everyone is different and therefore everyone has personal preferences when it comes to different types of dresses. One thing is true though; it’s important to have at least one versatile and flattering dress in your wardrobe. When determining what type to choose, there are several styles to consider that can be appropriate for different types of events and different figures.

Women today attend many events that require dressing up for the occasion. These may include weddings, dates, parties, work events, and brunch. When looking to buy a dress to suit a wide range of occasions, here are some flattering options for all ages and body types:

1. Wrap dresses

Wrap dresses are exactly what they sound like. These dresses are pulled together with a front closure. One side of the dress is wrapped across the front and then either goes behind the back part of the waist to either be attached by buttons or tied. The construction of this dress creates a v-neck front. It also accentuates the curves of the wearer in the chest area.

2. Maxi dresses

Maxi dresses are a great option for many occasions. They are long and go to the floor. Generally, they are designed to fit the body on the top, and then be flowy and long on the bottom. The fun thing about them is they can feature many different necklines and come in various patterns and colors. This makes them very individualized to the person.

3. A-Line dresses 

A-line dresses are named after the shape they take on the body, which is an “A”. They fit to the top part of the body and begin to flare gradually out at the waist and hips, becoming wider as the hem progresses. A-line clothing can be found not just in dresses, but also in coats and skirts.

4. Little black dresses

Everyone has heard of the little black dress. This is such a versatile option that can be found in your closet. It can be dressed up or down for numerous types of events. As a general design, it is usually a simple dress that tends to be quite short. The elegance and simplicity create a fairly blank canvas that allows you to create the exact type of look that you want. Many designers provide limitless options for this much-needed wardrobe essential. Victoria Beckham cocktail dresses are one good brand to consider.

5. Mini dresses

A mini, or short dress that hangs just above the knees is a common style. This design became popular in the 1920’s. It was later revitalized in the 1960s, and has remained an integral part of many wardrobes ever since. A mini shift style dress is a loose-fitting dress that is very comfortable and does not fit tightly around the waist or any part of the body. It is loose at both the hips and the waist so the dress falls loosely down from the shoulders all the way down to the bottom of the dress. Darts are generally located in the bust area. It is a straight silhouette that can be flattering for those that have bodies that are shaped more like a column and it also elongates petite figures as it shows off the legs. 

When shopping for dresses, every designer has his or her own individual interpretation. It is fun, and a great idea to look at the individual designers and fashion forward celebrities to find the one that fits your aesthetic most closely. Also, remember that designers also have many other clothing options. As an example, when looking at what stars wear, like Kourtney Kardashian or Victoria Beckham (blouses, skirts, dresses and pants), you might find a designer that the star tends to wear a lot that you can draw inspiration from.

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The right handbag can really accentuate your outfit of the day. There are also many styles and functions for different handbags. You could have a handback that works as a daily driver – a bag that you take to run errands or to the store. You could also have a bag that’s perfect for traveling or for a night out. Whatever the case may be, these are five handbags that are sure to be everywhere this season:

1. Versace Chunky Chain Bag

This Versace bag features a chunky chain which really is the stand out feature on this bag. The chain provides a cool effect when you wear it, that really draws your eyes to it. In typical Versace fashion, the chunky chain bag is made of high quality materials and is a great value for the price.

2. Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag

The Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag is another bag you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2021. This bag is one of the top trends in handbags right now, and for good reason. The Lanvin quality is apparent and you can really wear this on any occasion, formal or casual.

3. Stella McCartney Hobo Bag

The Stella McCartney Hobo bag has a relaxed look about it. It appears slightly slouched in nature, which provides a really cool effect. This bag can be dressed up for a nice, formal event or dressed down for a nice casual day. This bag is incredibly versatile and provides enough room for all of your belongings. It has two slip pockets and an interior compartment for maximum storage. This is one bag that can really do it all.

4. Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag

The Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag is extremely trendy right now, and for good reason. The bag features a scale like pattern which is the standout feature. It also features a shoulder strap for great versatility and a super comfortable wear. The bag features high quality materials and enough room to keep all your belongings stored nicely. This bag leans a bit casual but is a great bag if you’re looking to make a statement throughout the day.

5. Fendi Fluffy Feathers Bag

The Fendi fluffy feathers bag is a bag that’s sure to make a statement. This bag is made of high quality materials, in typical Fendi fashion. The fluffy feathers bag is covered in ostrich feathers. This bag is incredibly unique and will turn all the heads. It’s also very versatile in that all of the straps are detachable so you could wear this as a shoulder bag or as a little handheld purse. When you pair this with a stunning dress, you will be sure to turn heads at any formal event or night out on the town.

These bags can be found at many of your favorite retailers and department stores. Make sure to shop Saks Fifth Avenue bags for the latest in deals and trends for the 2021 year.

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Jewelry is the one of the best accent pieces for any outfit you choose to wear. The right necklace, or the right bracelet, can really put the finishing touch on an amazing outfit. You may opt to wear a necklace on a night out, or a set of bangles to run some errands. Either way there are a few styling hacks to help maximize your jewelry. Here are six jewelry styling hacks to follow:

1. Use earrings for a pop of color
It can be a great idea to match a few pieces of jewelry, however, when they’re all very similar in style and color, they can really blend together. To solve this issue, try using earrings to create that pop of color. Earrings can really balance out an outfit

2. Know when it’s too much
Jewelry can provide a great accent to your favorite outfit but you need to be careful you don’t overdo it. By having too much, you’re really taking away from the effect your jewelry adds to your outfit

3. Personalize with statement jewelry
Something like customized wrist bracelets can be super personal. This can be a piece that no one has that truly stands out on its own. These are often hard to duplicate because they’re one of a kind and customized. Check Kay Jewelers clearance sale and see if there’s anything that you could customize and make truly unique

4. Minimal jewelry with patterned clothing
When your outfit is full of patterns, it’s already incredibly loud. Something like stripes or plaid can be a super powerful statement in itself so when picking out jewelry, make sure to keep it minimal. When it’s overdone it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. One simple necklace or bracelet can be a nice, quick addition to a loud outfit with many patterns

5. Create layers with necklaces and bangles
Sometimes when we wear jewelry it can be hard to get the most out of it. Sometimes our jewelry is too thin and won’t really pop with our outfits. That’s where layering comes into play. By layering bangles you can create a super nice, textured set of bracelets that will surely stand out. With necklaces, you want to look at the style and length. By mixing and layering different necklace lengths, you can create the illusion of a much bigger piece and have them all flow together seamlessly. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with layering

6. Mix metals in jewelry
Most jewelry is made of various metals like gold, silver, and platinum. By combining different metals, you can really make them pop. When mixing and matching gold and silver you really create a palate with different colors and materials. It helps them stand out. When you wear all your jewellery in one material or one color, the pieces tend to blend in with each other. Mixing metals will help your pieces to really make a statement

When choosing jewelry, make sure to follow these 6 hacks for best results!

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