24/7 Protection Against Harmful Blue Light with Viteyes Blue Light Defender Kids

March 5, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Did you know that exposure to blue light before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns as it affects when our bodies create melatonin? With screentime for kids having increased by 500% during the pandemic, an inside out approach with Viteyes® Blue Light Defender™Kids can be an effective method to help protect their eyes 24/7.

Viteyes® has created Blue Light Defender™ Kids, a nutritional supplement formulated with lutein and zeaxanthin, the only natural defense eyes have to protect the macula from the harmful effects of blue light that stem from digital screens such as smart phones, tablets, TVs, computers and even sunlight.

Also, because Blue Light Defender™ Kids is not only formulated with lutein and zeaxanthin but also Astaxanthin, it’s packed with antioxidants that kids may be lacking in their diets. And with its delicious chocolate berry soft chew kids won’t even realize that it’s filled with stuff that’s good for them.

My son (and honestly, my husband as well) both liked these. My husband said they tasted vaguely of chocolate- I didn’t get that, but hey. Neither of them ever complained about taking these chews, and both like to complain, LOL. Especially the husband-  my son makes considerably less fuss. It’s always the big ones, isn’t it? Does it work? I can’t tell you that. I have no idea, and there is no way I can tell personally. The science says it does, and I know that Blue Light is a big problem, so I’m hopeful- and I’m glad they both like the taste.

kids supplement

Only 1 in 11 American kids are getting the necessary amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin in their diet, which include food sources such as eggs, broccoli, and dark leafy greens, like kale and spinach. Both ingredients act as powerful antioxidants to filter out blue light and also play a crucial role in visual development in the retina of the eye. Lutein is also found in the brain, depositing in the areas known for visual processing, comprehension, learning and memory. Staring at digital screens can also overwork the eyes causing digital eye strain. Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant clinically proven to help eyes recover from eye strain and fatigue. It also helps keep eyes healthy by increasing blood flow to the eye. Astaxanthin is found in select seafood like shrimp and lobster, however the best source in food is salmon.

With Viteyes® Blue Light Defender™ Kids (ages 4+) as well as their existing Viteyes® Blue Light Defender gummies (ages 12- adult) and Viteyes® Blue Light Defender™ Plus capsules (ages 12 – adult), they’re able to offer a natural defense against harmful blue light for almost all ages.

Learn more at https://youtu.be/A0K1ZhMjo-I.

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Why Consider a Toner

March 2, 2021 by Leave a Comment

With so many types of skin care formulas out there it sometimes can be confusing. For those of us who were alive in the 80’s, we may remember a toner as being a harsh astringent that was full of drying alcohols that left skin tight and over-dry. Toners today are far more sophisticated than those of yesteryear. They still remove impurities, like dirt, pollution and excess oil from the skin but generally leave it in a great state, prepped and ready for the rest of your skincare routine.

WHAT A TONER DOES?

Toners have a multitude of benefits. Below we highlight some of the key ones:

  •           hydrate skin and keep it moisturized.
  •           maintain the pH of skin after cleansing.
  •           absorb extra oil from your skin and can help manage breakouts
  •           reduce the visibility of large pores and can also help fade pigmentation (such as acne marks and sun spots)
  •           Leaves skin ready with a natural glow ready for the rest of a skincare routine

WHY GO NATURAL WITH YOUR TONER?

There are numerous reasons why natural skincare products are better for your skin and the world in general. As toners are left on your skin for a long period of time, it’s important to consider what is going into the formula. A natural toner will often be formulated without non-toxic ingredients and therefore will not contain things that will harm your skin. Often benefits of natural formulas are that they are often cruelty-free, and often made with more sustainable packaging, so are friendlier to the earth in general!

HOW TO USE A TONER?

Toners work best post washing your face. After patting your skin dry apply your toner. Pour a little on a cotton pad and gently swipe your face. Gently is the keyword! Let your skin dry for at least 30 seconds before following on with other parts of your skincare routine (aka essence, serum and moisturizer, etc).

KEY INGREDIENTS TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR

Below are some of the important ingredients you should be on the lookout for in your toner’s formula.

  •         Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisturizing agent that will help hydrate skin and help plump up fine lines and wrinkles.
  •         Plant extracts like Chamomile & Green Tea help soothe and calm the skin and also have a number of rejuvenating properties for.
  •         Vitamins like C and Niacinamide (B3) help improve skin health, fade away hyperpigmentation and also help with boosting that skin glow.
  •         If you have oily or acne prone skin also look out for ingredients like Salicylic Acid to help manage oil production.
  •         If you’re trying to target fine lines and wrinkles as well as skin texture issues look out for AHAs such as glycolic acid.

END THOUGHTS

The toners of today have been formulated to not only help the way skin looks but also how it works. Make sure to check out the ingredients on formulas to make sure that there are beneficial ingredients and that they match your skin’s needs.

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Cancer Treatment: Everything A Cancer Patient Need to Know

February 25, 2021 by Leave a Comment

If you or a loved one has just been diagnosed with cancer, one of the most important things in the process following the diagnosis is understanding the different cancer treatment available. Additionally, it will benefit you to understand how to manage your emotional and mental well-being throughout the process. Let’s dive into the different cancer treatments that are available and how to deal with the process as you go through it.

  1. Surgery

One common way of treating cancer is through surgical procedures. Depending on where the cancer is and where it is determined to spread to, surgery is often a viable option for treatment. There are many different types of surgical procedures depending on where the cancer is located and how far it has spread. Typically surgery can be stressful and difficult to recover from. 

There are different types of surgical procedures such as cryosurgery, laser surgery, and photodynamic therapy, which are all used under different circumstances with the cancer patient.

  1. Radiation therapy

This type of therapy for cancer, otherwise known as radiotherapy, is known to be applicable in cases where tumors need to be reduced and cancer cells need to be targeted in specific areas. The way that this therapy works is that it slows the growth of the cells over time by damaging the cells that are cancerous. Someone may be prescribed external or internal radiation therapy depending on the doctor recommendation. 

External means that it comes from a machine and sends radiation to the body and internal is when liquid or solid is injected into the body which treats cancer from the inside.

  1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, otherwise known as “chemo”, is another form of cancer treatment that uses drugs to fight cancer within someone’s body. Chemo is used with cancer patients through pills, and IV, injection, topically, intrathecal, etc. This treatment can shrink tumours, destroy cancer cells, and also help other cancer treatments work better. Chemotherapy is known to cause some intense side effects as it is known to make the patient’s hair fall out rapidly and cause severe fatigue in many people. 

  1. Immunotherapy

This type of cancer treatment works by helping the cancer patient fight the disease through their immune system. This type of treatment is a kind of biological therapy that takes living cells to treat cancer using the power of antibodies, modulators, and cell transfer methods. 

The immune system is known to fight off infections and other things that threaten the body’s safety. Although this type of treatment has been approved for multiple types of cancer, this type of treatment is not as widely used as other treatments. 

  1. Hormone therapy 

Hormone therapy as a treatment for cancer is a way to stop or slow the growth of the disease by the use of hormones. This type of treatment is also known as endocrine therapy. 

Typically used in breast cancer or prostate cancer, this type of treatment can use the body’s natural hormones to manipulate the cancer cells to decrease and the tumours to shrink. There can be different side effects of this treatment from hot flashes to nausea and fatigue.

  1. Stem cell transplant

This type of treatment is where stem cells are placed in people with cancer in order to regrow cells and treat certain types of cancer. This treatment is typically more expensive than others because it has been newly tested and takes a lot of research to fund. 

Throughout this process, it will be hard to manage your emotional and mental well-being, but this is a vital component of healing in addition to receiving treatment. Make sure that you take the proper actions to maintain your nutrition and talk to your family and friends often to maintain a strong support system. Throughout this process please maintain faith that you are strong through this journey and that you will be okay.

 

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CBD Wellness 101- What Every Beginner Needs To Know

February 18, 2021 by Leave a Comment

When cannabis became legal a few years ago, its derivatives gained acceptance and gradually earned widespread popularity. CBD, in particular, has established itself as a leading wellness and beauty trend. Medical research indicates much about its therapeutic benefits, and there is a lot more you will find about it in the wellness circles. There are magazine and news articles that validate the scientific evidence, celebrity testimonials that endorse CBD, and wellness practitioners who recommend products for a host of health conditions. Before you integrate CBD into your daily routine, you must know and understand some facts. 

CBD heals the body and mind

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that occurs naturally in cannabis plants, so you can embrace it without worrying about getting high. The healing potential of this cannabinoid is immense as it works on your body and mind. It can relieve chronic pain, fine-tune digestive processes, regulate sleep patterns, and boost immune responses. Beyond treating physical health issues, it can alleviate stress and anxiety and balance your mood. The best part about using it as a wellness therapy is that it is safe and natural while being effective. It can help you steer clear of the side effects of painkillers, sleeping pills, and anti-depressants.

Many options to explore 

Beginners looking to switch to CBD-based wellness have access to many options in products and methods of consumption. You may order cbd tinctures and oils, soft gels, and topical products. There is a wide range in edibles too, from baked goodies to gummies, chocolates, candies, and more. Alternatively, you can try cooking edibles or brewing tea or coffee by infusing CBD into your recipes. The choice of products and methods boils down to your preference and expectations. While you can pick the oral options if you want to taste the product, topical creams and lotions are the best for those who do not want to ingest it. 

Making CBD work for you

Incorporating CBD into your ongoing wellness routine is a breeze, and you need not do much to embrace it as a therapy. You can start the morning with a cup of infused beverage, chew a gummy in the middle of a busy day, relish an edible with your evening drinks, or apply a lotion on your skin at bedtime. But making it work for you as a beginner needs some caution and awareness. Start slowly with a small dose to understand how it works on your system. You may seek guidance from a seasoned user or a medical practitioner when you embark on this new journey. Eventually, you will understand what products and doses give you the best results.

Another useful piece of advice for newbies is to always get quality products from a reliable source, even if you have to spend a little more. Consistency is the key to getting the best results with CBD-based wellness, just as with any other alternative therapy. Be regular with your daily dose of CBD wellness, and you can avail its myriad benefits sooner rather than later. 

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OVERCOMING DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY DURING COVID-19 FOR CHilDREN, TEENS and YOUNG ADULTS

February 11, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Is your child feeling anxious or depressed?

About 1 in 4 Americans is diagnosed with a mental illness at any given time.

Clinical depression is a serious illness that affects men and women of all ages.

It can affect your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and general health.

Rick Birt, president and ceo, SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisons) is responsible for leading the organizational programming, outreach, development, and communication efforts, while leading the SADD National Staff. Working closely with the Board of Directors, Rick sets and implements the strategic direction for SADD, empowering the millions of students in which SADD serves. An expert in the matters of youth health and safety, Rick has authored several publications that feature SADD’s unique form of a peer-to-peer approach that is vital to creating lasting behavior change in youth. Rick also frequents major news outlets, where he provides perspective for parents on best practices for helping their teen succeed. A SADD alumni himself, SADD has over a decade of prevention experience. Previously, Rick held the position of Executive Vice President, Director of Strategic Partnership, and Development Officer for SADD. Before joining the SADD team, he led Midwest Operations as the Midwest Education Outreach Coordinator for Impact Teen Drivers. Rick is actively involved in the community and spends time giving back to the Washington, DC area. Prior to his move to the District, he spent six years on the Northwestern Local Schools Board of Education (Ohio) and serves on several local and national boards that work to make a change at the community level. Rick is a self-proclaimed dessert aficionado, who enjoys frequent travel adventures and a good Netflix binge.

Clinical depression is a serious illness that affects men and women of all ages.

It can affect your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and general health.

Studies show that high school–aged students with mental illness are more likely to drink, use drugs, and die from suicide (the third leading cause of death in youth) 

Talking Points:

  • Often, mental illness begins to develop through high school and college years
  • Clinical depression is a serious illness that affects men and women of all ages
  • Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason
  • Frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
  • Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends
  • Use of alcohol or drugs
  • Less attention to personal hygiene or appearance

The good news is that there is help for those who suffer from depression and anxiety.

Unfortunately, many teens are reluctant to seek the help they need because of the stigma associated with depression.

SADD chapters have access to information, tools and campaigns that help them know the warning signs, end the stigma, and empower each other to get help.

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FOOD & FERTILITY: A FASCINATING LINK

February 11, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Struggling to conceive? You are not alone. One in eight couples in the US have difficulty getting or staying pregnant, many without explanation and who are otherwise healthy. If you’re having a rough time, Cryos International can support you on your journey towards parenthood – providing guides, news, articles, and personal stories about everything from fertility and pregnancy to fertility treatments and how to buy donor sperm and eggs.

Before giving up hope or turning to Reproductive Medicine, (or other expensive, invasive treatments) there are several things you should try first to help you get pregnant. Although there is no magic formula that guarantees conception, there is a lot you can do to boost your chances.

According to Dr. Robert Kiltz, many people underestimate the serious impact that diet, lifestyle, and stress have on fertility.

“We already know that what we eat plays a huge role in helping our bodies function properly, and the reproductive system is no different…”

…says Dr. Kiltz, a board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist with more than three decades of experience helping families grow. As the founder of CNY Fertility, (one of the largest and most dynamic fertility centers in the country),  Dr. Kiltz has witnessed the positive power of nutrition to bring new life into the world.

So what should you eat to boost your chances?

Dr. Kiltz recommends a diet high in fats, moderate in proteins, and low in carbohydrates – and he is not alone in this belief. A growing body of new research supports a low-carb lifestyle for fertility. Researchers at Harvard Medical School found that women who consumed approximately 60% of their calories from carbohydrates (vs. 40%) had a 91% higher risk of ovulatory infertility.

We already know that low-carb diets (if done correctly) are an extremely effective strategy for weight loss, but what does carbohydrate consumption have to do with fertility? According to Kiltz, carbohydrates play a primary role in determining blood sugar and insulin levels. If blood sugar and/or insulin levels are too high, reproductive hormone levels can be thrown off which can ultimately have an effect on ovulation and therefore, fertility.

How often you eat also plays a role. Dr. Kiltz practices and recommends “intermittent fasting,” eating just one meal a day at night and allowing the body the time it needs to rest and digest. Most people eat 3-6 times per day which keeps glucose levels high and increases inflammation.

According to Dr. Kiltz, mental health is also an extremely important factor in fertility, which is problematic in the wake of a pandemic, vaccine anxiety, economic decline, social disruption, and political turbulence.

In his book, The Fertile Feast, Dr. Kiltz explores the fascinating connection between food and fertility and emphasizes the importance of diet and how it influences the overall wellbeing of mind, body, and spirit and ultimately your ability to conceive.

“Fertility is much more than just diet and exercise. It’s also about your frame of mind…”

…says Kiltz who, after initially making a name for himself in fertility medicine, became a leader in the holistic health movement for his insights on mindfulness, mental health, and nutrition.

He encourages his patients who are having difficulty with conception to connect with others in deep, joyous, and meaningful ways.

(Credit for this post goes to Dr. Robert Kiltz, Fertility Doctor & Author of The Fertile Feast)

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February 11: United Nation’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science

February 11, 2021 by Leave a Comment

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital spotlights women scientists helping find cures and treatments for catastrophic diseases

On the United Nation’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science today, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital marks this important recognition today by highlighting a series on women in science and medicine at St. Jude.

The online feature highlights women scientists, doctors and experts whose contributions to the field are leading to advancements in cures and prevention strategies for catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Launched in advance of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the series aims to tell the stories of these extraordinary women and inspire girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and medicine.

“The contributions by women to the field of science and medicine is immeasurable,” said Martine Roussel, Ph.D., a molecular oncologist at St. Jude who has devoted nearly 50 years to scientific exploration. “The extraordinary women who work tirelessly at St. Jude, some of whom are featured in this series, have made groundbreaking and lifelong impacts on advancing treatments and potential cures for some of the world’s most difficult diseases. Too often, women in science and medicine face obstacles in their careers, but nevertheless they persevere and the entire world is better because of their determination. We hope these stories are an inspiration to girls across the globe and help them see that they, too, can choose a career in STEM.”

Roussel, who was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2019 and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2011, has long been an advocate for women in science. In 2019 she was among several female scientists who were part of a groundbreaking “Women in Cancer Research” article in Nature discussing the prevalence of gender inequality in science and the work necessary to level the playing field.

“Female and male scientists have the same drive and passion, but women are subject to implicit bias,” wrote Roussel for Nature. “Although there are now more women scientists, with or without children, who are recognized for career achievements, gender equality has not yet been achieved.” 

St. Jude recognizes contributions of women in science and medicine

Through a one-on-one “question and answer” interview format, the women in science and medicine series will feature every Monday, through the end of March, a story telling the journey of a female St. Jude scientist, doctor or expert via the online St. Jude award-winning magazine, St. Jude Progress. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will also promote these features through social media participation with the #womeninscience hashtag.

Already posted features include:

For Erica Kaye, MD, the privilege of caring for a patient and family is sacred

  • Erica Kaye, MD, shares her family’s journey to becoming physicians and how meaningful connections have deepened her understanding of her role in caring for patients.

Life-changing experience forged Niki Jurbergs’ career in pediatric oncology

  • Niki Jurbergs, PhD, credits a hematology/oncology rotation as a psychology intern as a pivotal moment that shaped how she cares for patients today.

Robin Mutz’s childhood dream to be a nurse led to becoming the chief nurse executive at St. Jude

  • Robin Mutz, RN, never forgot the compassionate leadership she encountered early in her career.

Deanna Tremblay credits mother with inspiration to pursue scientific career

  • Deanna Tremblay, MSc, credits her mother’s decision to return to school as a key event in shaping a career path in science.

The St. Jude Progress blog will shine the light on the critical work and the personal stories of how these accomplished women are advancing life-saving preventions, treatments and cures for the world’s most challenging diseases. The women scientists, doctors and experts at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital continue to be critical in the development of treatments that have helped increase the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80% since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. Each of these profiles – ranging from personal reflections to professional development – aim to profile the journeys of the women of St. Jude helping the hospital achieve its mission of finding cures and saving children.

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Celebrate National Wear Red Day with Women’s Choice Award

February 5, 2021 by Leave a Comment
Celebrate National Wear Red Day and American Heart Month with a tool that can help women fight against cardiovascular disease – the Women’s Choice Award.The Women’s Choice Award is a life-saving resource that identifies America’s Best Hospitals for Heart Care and additional health care resources. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of American women, causing one in three deaths each year – that’s approximately one woman every minute. What’s often thought of as a “man’s disease” strikes more women than men and is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined, and the Women’s Choice Award helps them navigate a confusing landscape of health care choices.

The award empowers women to choose the best services for themselves based on female-centric data research, surveys of tens of thousands of women, female patient feedback and information on what drives the consumer experience for women vs. men. It is also based on research from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), research conducted in partnership with the Wharton School of Business and more.

It is the only ranking that does not separate clinical outcomes from patient experience and reflects the preferences of women when choosing where to go for the best health care. No other ranks heart care based on a women’s needs.

“With such strong prevalence of heart disease, helping women find the best in cardiac care is how we empower them to make the best health care choices for themselves and for their family,” said Delia Passi, the award’s founder and CEO. Her business and brand have helped companies such as Hallmark, Goodyear, Hertz, Pennzoil, Mastercard, Brother, Coldwell Banker and more with marketing and research on women’s issues.

You can see rankings here:
https://www.womenschoiceaward.com/best-hospitals-for-heart-care?distance=10&name=&sort=ASC

Methodology information here:
https://www.womenschoiceaward.com/hospital-methodology

BEST HOSPITALS for Heart Care

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of American women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year—approximately one woman every minute. What’s often thought of as a “man’s disease” strikes more women than men, and is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined. “With such strong prevalence of heart disease, helping her find the best in cardiac care is how we empower women to make the best healthcare choices for themselves and for their family,” said Delia Passi, founder and CEO of The Women’s Choice Award. The following hospitals have met the highest standards for Heart Care across the U.S. and have earned the 2021 Women’s Choice Award®, America’s trusted referral source for the best in healthcare.

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