● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●: Search results for health

In our fast-paced world, it's easy for men to overlook the importance of self-care, especially regarding intimate well-being. However, prioritising intimate self-care use of male masturbator toys is crucial to maintaining overall health and wellness. This comprehensive guide will explore the various dimensions of intimate self-care tailored specifically for men, shedding light on practices contributing to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether exploring solo pleasures or enhancing partnered experiences, incorporating these tools can be a fulfilling aspect of a holistic approach to men's intimate health.

Hygiene Matters
The foundation of intimate self-care starts with basic hygiene practices. Regular cleansing with a mild, pH-balanced soap helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria while preventing infections and discomfort. Choosing breathable fabrics for underwear and changing them daily is equally important in preventing irritation and ensuring a comfortable environment.

Grooming Rituals
Beyond basic hygiene, grooming plays a significant role in intimate self-care. Regular trimming of pubic hair can reduce the risk of infections and enhance overall hygiene. Choosing grooming products specifically designed for sensitive areas is essential to avoid irritation and maintain a neat and clean appearance.

Nutrition and Hydration
A well-balanced diet directly impacts overall health, including intimate well-being. Proper nutrition promotes blood flow, supports hormonal balance, and contributes to the overall health of reproductive organs. Staying hydrated is equally crucial, as it helps flush toxins from the body and ensures optimal bodily functions.

Regular Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity not only benefits cardiovascular health but also contributes to intimate well-being. Exercise improves blood circulation, boosts energy levels, and can enhance sexual function. Activities like jogging, swimming, or yoga can be particularly beneficial for men looking to prioritise their intimate health.

Mental and Emotional Wellness
Intimate self-care extends beyond the physical realm. Mental and emotional well-being is closely connected to intimate health. Stress and anxiety can negatively impact sexual performance and satisfaction. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or seeking professional help can be instrumental in managing stress and fostering emotional resilience.

Safe Sexual Practices
Practicing safe sex is a fundamental aspect of intimate self-care. Consistent and correct use of condoms helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contributes to a healthy, intimate life. Open communication with partners about sexual health and boundaries is equally important for a fulfilling and safe experience.

Regular Health Check-ups
Routine health check-ups are essential for monitoring and maintaining intimate health. Regular screenings for STIs, prostate health checks, and discussions with healthcare professionals can help detect and address potential issues early on, ensuring optimal intimate well-being.

Prioritising intimate self-care is an investment in overall health and happiness. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you are taking proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy and fulfilling intimate life. Remember, intimate well-being is an integral part of your overall well-being, and by embracing these habits, you're on the path to a healthier and more satisfying life.

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AD - GIFTED | Love the occasional glass of red wine? Did you know it might have health benefits too?

When it comes to making healthier lifestyle and diet choices, alcohol consumption isn't typically the first thing that you would consider. However, drinking occasional glasses of red wine has been linked to a host a number of positive health benefits that can improve your lifestyle and diet.

There's little doubt that consuming red wine has a number of health benefits, but those benefits will only apply if you drink wine occasionally and in moderation. Consuming large, excessive amounts of alcohol is not good for your body and your health in general, so lets look at 3 health benefits of drinking red wine in moderation.

Can Lower Cholesterol Levels

Red wines are typically known to help lower the bad cholesterol levels in your body. The powerful antioxidants found in red wine may increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol - which is good for you, and help protect the body against cholesterol build-up. The NHS free tools can educate and advise you in aiming to help to cut down on alcohol too - they always advise to drink less, but better quality wines.

Keeps Heart Healthy

One of red wine's most popular health benefits is its effect on your hearts health. Many individuals believe that consumption of red wine can be linked to lower risks of heart/body inflammation and heart disease, as well as a reducing your chances of dying from a heart attack. When red wine is produced, it retains the skin of the grapes used during the fermentation process and this is usually where the beneficial chemicals are located. Red wine typically contains a number of beneficial nutrients that are linked with keeping a healthy heart, including: Polyphenols, Quercetin and Resveratrol - which are all powerful antioxidants with huge health benefits.

Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are vital substances typically used for maintaining good health, as they help to protect your cells from damage. Red wine contains powerful antioxidants called Polyphenols. These are what helps protect the lining of blood vessels in your heart. The majority of health benefits red wine has to offer are linked to Resveratrol -an antioxidant found in the skin of grapes.

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Independent Wine is one of the UK’s leading specialist in award-winning Italian wine, and the company stocks a large variety of Italian wines that have won some top awards. Recently, I was kindly gifted a couple of bottles of red wine from Independent Wine, to see what I thought and to share online.

1. Siddùra Erema 2018 | Cannonau di Sardegna DOC

This full bodied Sardinian red wine has a deep, dark ruby colour, enriched with aromas of wild berries and cherry, as well as hints of spicy black pepper. A powerful wine with aromas of fresh, spiced berries, made from Sardinia’s signature black grape variety - Cannonau, thought to be the most ancient in the Mediterranean. It is full of powerful and healthy antioxidants, which is a key element of the famous Sardinian diet.

Awards

Concours International De Lyon 2021 – Silver Medal (2019 vintage) | Sakura Awards 2021 – Silver Medal (2019 vintage) | Gilbert & Gaillard 2020, Gold Medal (2017 vintage) | Decanter World Wine Awards 2019 – Bronze Medal (2016 vintage) | Women’s Wine & Spirits Awards – Double Gold Medal | International Wine & Spirits Competition – Bronze Medal | James Suckling – 91 points

2. Feudi di Guagnano Pietrafinita | Primitivo di Manduria DOC 2019

Old-vine Primitivo wine has a very luxurious and rich flavour, with hints of blackberry and liquorice. It has quite a remarkable depth of flavour due to the particular winemaking process used to make this wine. The Pietrafinita wine again has a deep ruby colour, with strong aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and liquorice. Since it’s made from passito grapes, this wine has a elements of dried raisins, dates and prunes, followed by notes of coconut and cinnamon.

Awards

Decanter World Wine Awards 2021 – Bronze Medal (2019) | I Vini di Veronelli – 2 stars (2015 vintage) | Luca Maroni – 91 points (2011 vintage)

Are you a red wine drinker? Did you know consuming this drink can have positive health benefits?

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AD| Improving your dental heath and sustaining healthy teeth really does takes a lifetime of care, but can be fairly straightforward if you follow a good routine. It's important to take the necessary steps in your daily routine in order to properly take care of your teeth and prevent any dental problems occurring in the future. Listed below are a number of easy ways in which we can all improve our dental health with a few simple lifestyle changes.

- Change Your Diet and Lifestyle -

The choices we make when it comes to what we eat and drink is important for those looking to improve their dental health. Eating too much of the wrong types of food and drink can cause tooth decay, and lead to poor dental hygiene. Leading a healthier lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and tracking your alcohol and sugar intake are all beneficial for good dental health.

For those who have made poor diet or lifestyle choices, it can be extremely hard to get your white smile back after years of bad habits. Drinking certain drinks like tea/coffee and smoking can lead to tooth discoloration and bad breath. In this case, many people lacking confidence due to their bad dental health may look at getting help with cosmetic procedures to try and boost themselves. Many people opt for private dental cosmetic procedures or even dental treatments in Turkey due to their high-quality, affordable dental work, which is bound to get you smiling again.

- Brush Properly -

Aiming to brush your teeth after every meal clean away any food/debris from becoming stuck in-between your teeth and gums. The way in which we brush out teeth is extremely important. When brushing, you should ensure you take your time to make sure you cover all areas of your teeth, gums and tongue. Making sure to move your toothbrush slowly in gentle, circular motions will help to remove any debris, stains or plaque.

However, brushing your teeth too hard and aggressively, or even using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause damage to your teeth and gums. The effects of over-brushing can include many dental problems such as tooth sensitivity, damage to the protective enamel, and bleeding gums and erosion

- Visit Your Dentist Regularly -

Dentists typically recommend that you make an appointment to see your dentist at least every 6 months for a routine check-up. Many people often skip dentist appointments due to fear, costs or having no free time to attend, or even simply avoid going all together. Scheduling regular visits to your dentist are essential for the maintenance of your overall dental health, and both your teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups can not only keep your teeth in a good, healthy condition now, but dentists are also able to check for any future issues that can be treated asap. Dentists can also recommend any treatments that they feel are necessary, including teeth whitening, braces and dental veneers, to help keep your teeth healthy and strong.

- Consider Using Chewing Gum/Mouthwash -

For those of you who are constantly on-the-go and may be unable to brush your teeth after eating/drinking, chewing gum can help prevent plaque tooth decay, protect your teeth and promotes good oral health, as long as you opt for a sugar-free gum. Chewing gum allows your mouth to increase the amount of saliva that is produced, this then helps to neutralise some of the acid that forms when you break down food or drink, as well as rinsing it away.

Incorporating mouthwash into your daily dental routine will give you that extra help when looking to remove unwanted bacteria/debris from inside your mouth. As mouthwash is a liquid, it is able to reach areas of your mouth that you may not have access to or you don't always brush. There are also specific mouthwashes available online and in-stores that may be able to help those suffering with bad breath and any unwanted dental problems.

What other ways do you look after your teeth and overall dental health?

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GUEST POST| Never underestimate the power of a healthy smile. Research showed that almost half of adults in the UK did not visit an NHS dentist in the past 24 months. Avoiding the dentist can impact your dental, overall, and even mental health. Investing in your smile can have numerous benefits. As such, it is worth spending the time and money on ensuring that you have a healthy, gleaming smile. These are a few reasons why you should consider investing in your smile.

Creates A Strong First Impression

First impressions are crucial. It forms the foundation of a person’s opinion about another person. One of the first noticeable things a person’s eyes will be drawn to is your smile. Investing in your smile can help you showcase it instead of hiding it away. When you invest in your smile, you are also investing in your self-esteem, as you are not attempting to hide your teeth. You are no longer feeling conscious about the appearance of your teeth. You no longer worry about it during work meetings or when talking to someone new.

Helps To Boost Your Confidence

Aside from creating a solid first impression, investing in your smile can help to boost your confidence. It can help you feel more confident about showing your smile in front of others. Investing in your smile by having your teeth straightened or whitened can help you gain a higher confidence level.

Find a dentist that offers an extensive range of services. They could either be local to you or a little further afield. For instance, if you were to live in London, regardless of where in the capital you lived, you could visit a dentist in Fulham, such as fulhamroaddental.com. Selecting a dentist that offers an extensive list of services will allow you to receive all of your treatments in the same place. You will not have to search for another dentist to have specialist treatment or procedures to help you achieve a perfect, confidence-boosting smile.

Limits of Expensive Dental Chances

Recommendations suggest you should be visiting the dentist twice a year. Each visit is to have a routine check-up and professional cleaning. It helps to ensure that any signs of tooth damage or tooth decay are spotted and treated, and resolved, limiting the chances of a significant dental issue. A common dental concern is gum disease. The sooner it is treated, the better. Gum disease can lead to extensive treatment to restore your gums when left untreated. This procedure is more invasive than the standard preventative cleaning received when visiting the dentist regularly.

Investing In Your Health

A surprising fact is how oral health can be connected to your overall health. It surprises many people when they learn how much of their oral health affects the rest of the body. Studies are looking into the connections between overall health and oral health. Research is looking to see the link between inflammation of the gums and inflammation of blood vessels that can cause heart disease. When you invest in your teeth, you are also helping to maintain the overall health of your body.

Poor oral health can impact your life in multiple ways. Your smile will influence how others will perceive you. It impacts your confidence and self-esteem. Investing in your smile to create a healthier mouth can positively impact overall.

How do you look after your teeth and smile?

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AD – GIFTED | Do you enjoy eating yogurt? Did you know it has good health benefits?

Yogurt is an extremely popular dairy product that is simply made by the bacterial fermentation of milk. Consuming fermented foods on a regular basis has been shown to support good gut health. One of the ways to do this is to consume live yogurt. Yogurt can also be made from a variety of types of milk to suit any dietary needs you may have, including having milk allergies, being lactose intolerant or leading a plant-based diet.

However, regardless of its form, it’s incredibly good for your health, it's very nutritious, and consuming it on a regular basis may boost your overall health. Here are 3 health benefits of eating yogurt, as well as a look at the Probio7 Life Yogurt Maker.

Good For Bones

The health of our bones comes down to use having a balanced diet, and consuming enough vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The most important for bones being both calcium, and vitamin D. Calcium is an essential mineral for the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It is also essential for blood clotting, wound healing, and maintaining normal blood pressure.

Helps With Weight Loss

Including low-fat yogurt in your diet can be a smart source of protein for those looking to lose weight, as it has the potential to keep you full for a significant amount of time. Yogurt is such a versatile food product, as you can enjoy it any time of the day, including for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even just as a snack. Whether you serve your yogurt with fruit and granola, on tops of curries or chilli con carne, or even just eaten alone, yogurt is a great staple food to include and consume in your diet regularly.

Immune Booster

Some yogurts will contain probiotics, which may help to boost your immune system by helping restore the balance of bacteria in your gut. Probiotics are a type of healthy bacteria that benefit the gut, and helps to keep the intestines healthy. They are used to helping regulate the digestive system and improve any digestive issues such as trapped wind, diarrhoea, constipation, and bloating.

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Testing The Probio7 Life Yogurt Making Kit

For those looking to support gut health through diet, the Probio7 Life Yogurt Maker might just be your new best friend. As one of the UK’s most trusted friendly bacteria supplement brands, the kit contains Probio7’s high-quality Happy Gut bacteria to add to your daily yogurt, ensuring that each serving delivers 6 billion friendly bacteria from 3 well-researched strains, selected specifically to support your gut health.

The Probio7 Life Yogurt Making Kit comes with everything you need to get started straight away, including 1x Machine, 8x 125ml ceramic pots, 2x 250ml ceramic pots, 1x Greek strainer and 1 x Recipe Booklet.

Getting started with the Probio7 Life Yogurt Maker is super simple, and your yogurt can be made in just 3 simple steps;

1. Add 1L of Jersey UHT milk and 1 sachet of Probio7 Happy Gut to your glass mixing bottle. Add the lid, shake it up and transfer evenly to your ceramic pots.

2. Add 400ml of water to your Probio7 Life machine, add your pots. Add the lids to your pots and then close the machine lid.

3. Select the yogurt making function on the machine, and you're all set! In 8 hours, your yogurt will be ready.

By using Jersey milk, this helps to make the creamiest and thick yogurt, it's simply delicious. As well as this, Jersey milk is rich in calcium, a good source of protein and contains vitamin B2 and B12. Jersey milk also contains a relatively large amount of protein – about 20% more than regular milk. The milk is also predominately A2 protein, which is easier to digest.

If you want to add a twist to your yogurts, you can also add flavourings to them, to change your plain yogurt into something special. Your chosen flavourings just need to be added into your ceramic pots just before you put the lids on, and have given them a good stir. The possibilities for this step are endless, whether you decide on honey, fruit purées or jams, there will definitely be a flavour to suit everyone, and I would definitely recommend if you want to make your own yogurt from the comfort of your home!

"Additive-free yogurt with 6 billion clinically researched bacteria, proven to reach the gut alive in every serving. Plus nutritionally superior Jersey milk, making it good for your gut!"

The Yogurt Making Kit is available from probio7.com.

Have you heard of Probio7? What are your favourite flavours of yogurt?

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GUEST POST | Everyone is more acutely aware of their well-being today. The coronavirus set society on a high alert, and now people are watchful for any signs, symptoms, and causes of illness. Of course, illness does not predictably roll around and doesn’t necessarily abide by a schedule. Often, sickness can seem to come down to little more than a harsh bout of bad luck.

There are many prevention methods to employ, but over a lifetime, everyone is bound to get ill at one stage or another. Still, a degree of preparation work can help with illness. If you take the right steps, health problems may be less debilitating and dismissed much sooner. Here are some tips to help you prepare for unexpected health problems.

Stock up Proportionately

The prospect of illness can drive many people into a fretful frenzy. For example, they may seek to buy more medicines than they feasibly need. The coronavirus spurred people to buy more goods, and the pandemic is yet to be fully conquered. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful. While having more drugs in the house might seem like a good idea at first, it can make things harder for you. Your spending might unnecessarily skyrocket when the cost of living is high enough already. Moreover, your cupboards may become overcrowded and disorganised with different pills you may or may not need.

Try to have enough medications at home so that you are covered if illness strikes at highly inconvenient times, such as in the middle of the night. Don’t buy enough that you think could set you up for life, but just for little blips of ailments in your usual routine. Once that rocky period of unexpected illness has subsided, you can then head to the doctor or your pharmacy the next day to buy more (but still a proportionate amount) of what you need. Stock up on more than medicines too. Hand sanitisers, cleaning disinfectants, and healthy food and drink ranges can make a positive difference when an illness is floating around.

Review Insurance Arrangements

Illness might be unexpected, but your response to it shouldn’t be. Insurance coverage can determine how fast you can respond to sickness. It’s worth regularly reviewing your circumstances here. For example, Circle Health Group provide a wealth of information and resources on private health insurance. They explain that if you need a specialist for treatment, you can activate your private health cover and then use it to pay for treatment at one of their private hospitals. Read their simple three-step process of speaking to your GP, calling their appointments' advisor line, and speaking to your insurer for more assurances and information.

Knowing that you have private insurance can be an enormous comfort. Of course, not everybody can afford the full range of benefits, but you can tinker with what you’d like covered so that it aligns with your budget. Your workplace may also have policies that cover you. Make some enquiries, get clued in, and see what type of private healthcare you might be eligible for.

Keep Reading

It’s important to remain informed across all aspects of your health. Building your knowledge means you streamline your preventative measures and tailor your countermeasures. Coronavirus isn’t over yet. While the consensus indicates the worst is probably over, covid continues to evolve and develop numerous strains that affect each sufferer differently. Consequently, it’s important to be mindful of things such as this and not underestimate coronavirus just because it appears to be in the news a little less.

Of course, balance is required here. If you worry too much, you may start to develop hypochondriac qualities. Be cautious and informed rather than anxious and hysterical, and you’ll be in a better position to judge which health-related measures are appropriate in your life. Ensure that you source all of your information from reputable outlets, too. Peer-reviewed resources from medical journals will suit your purposes, as will the NHS website and some reports from credible mainstream media outlets. Conduct some wider reading without consuming misinformation.

Build a Support Network

Pride mustn’t get in the way when it comes to potential illness. A support network is required to ensure you get through these moments as quickly and cleanly as possible. Remember, your loved ones are well positioned to notice any change in your behaviour that might indicate illness. Additionally, they may be willing to stop by when you’re sick and help take care of you. Their attentiveness and affection for you can make a huge difference not only to your physical well-being, but your overall morale too.

You mustn’t just have one person in mind when receiving help. After all, it’s important to be considerate of other people’s time and mindful that everyone is leading their own lives. Try to make life easier for anyone who might help you when you’re ill. Doctor’s contact numbers, draft a proposed schedule, and think about ways you can make requests specific and clear. Share your feelings and gratitude, and state your intentions to return favours when you’re better.

How do you prepare for unexpected health problems?

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AD| Did you know that the chewing gum habit that many of us have can actually be good for your teeth, if you choose the right sort of gum?

You may have always been under the impression that you should not chew gum because it is full of sugar and is extremely bad for your teeth. However, this is not the case as you can still enjoy sugar free gum as a replacement. Chewing sugar free gum comes with a number of extremely positive benefits for your oral and dental health. As well as this, did you also know chewing gum has loads of health benefits too?

Oral Health

One of the main benefits of chewing sugar-free gum is improved oral health. Chewing gum improves oral health in some many ways you'd be surprised, from increasing saliva flow in the mouth, strengthening the teeth by restoring the depleted mineral content and neutralising plaque acids. Increased saliva production is important for preventing tooth decay as it has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.

Research by the Department of Dentistry at King’s College London in 2019 found "that people who chew sugar-free gum develop 28% fewer cavities than those who do not. The equivalent figure for fluoride toothpaste and other supplements was 24%."

Stress Busting

Chewing gum can have a calming effect on your mood, as well as on those suffering from both anxiety and sickness. People that feel nervous, anxious or sick are usually looking for something to do in order to take their mind off their problems, to calm nerves and keep nausea at bay.

Concentration Booster

Gum can help to increase brain function and alertness, in order to improve overall productivity, performance levels and personal safety. Chewing gum can help you stay focused and improves concentration levels by increasing your heart rate, blood pressure, and cerebral blood flow.

A 2017 study found: “Under experimental conditions, gum was associated with higher alertness regardless of whether performance tasks were completed. Rate of chewing and subjective force of chewing did not alter mood but had some limited effects on attention. Chewing gum during the workday was associated with higher productivity and fewer cognitive problems, raised cortisol levels in the morning, and did not affect heart rate. The results emphasise that chewing gum can attenuate reductions in alertness, suggesting that chewing gum enhances worker performance.”

Helps With Weight Loss

For those on a weight loss journey or looking at a lifestyle change, chewing sugar free gum could be something worth looking at. Over-eating and snacking isn’t just bad for your waistline; it’s also not good for your teeth, especially if you're indulging in the wring kinds of foods. If you’re diet is filled with high sugar foods, you’re creating the perfect environment for dental problems including tooth decay, plaque build up and cavities. So curb those craving and suppress your appetite with some sugar free gum instead.

Fresh Breath On The Go

Chewing sugar-free gum can help protect your teeth and gums especially when it may not be possible to brush them properly in between meals. This is extremely convenient for those who travel a lot and are constantly on-the-go as sugar free gum has great anti-viral properties. This will to help clear away food debris and rinse away any bacteria that can cause bad breath after eating and drinking.

Break Bad Habits

Is your overall dental health being ruined by bad habits such as smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco? If the answer is yes, chewing sugar free gum could be your best friend for those wanting to give up the bad habits and get your oral health in better condition. By chewing gum, this can help to reduce any cravings and helps with nicotine withdrawal for people who cannot smoke for whatever reason.

Is chewing gum one of your daily habits? Have you considered the sugar-free alternative?

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AD| If you are unhappy or deeply concerned about a specific part of your body, your face, or even your hair, there is a possibility that considering cosmetic surgery can help you restore your happiness.

Nowadays, cosmetic surgery is becoming quite the norm, and is something that is continuously growing in popularity, with both men and women opting for a variety of procedures and treatments that are currently available. Cosmetic surgery can now be performed on pretty much any part of the face or body, in order to typically improve a person's appearance. But, this is just one of the many benefits you can receive from cosmetic surgery. Listed below are a number of reasons why cosmetic surgery can help build your confidence, health, and self-esteem.

Improves Mental Health

When a person doesn't particularly like a part of their appearance, it can heavily influence how they feel about themselves overall. For those who have suffered with mental health issues such as body dysmorphia, depression, low self-esteem and anxiety, cosmetic surgery can boost your mental health and help you view your body in a better way. Cosmetic surgery could hopefully improve your mental health by helping you feel more relaxed, more comfortable, and more confident in your own skin.

Enhanced Appearance and Better Self-Confidence

Cosmetic surgery is simply done to change your overall appearance for whatever reason you have. There are such a variety of cosmetic surgery procedures that both men and women can choose these days, to help them feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance. Your appearance is the first thing that people notice about you, and if there are certain things you don't like about yourself, it can make you feel embarrassed, upset or anxious being around new people. Any improvement to your overall appearance, even if it's a small or big thing, will lead to greater self-confidence.

Once you are happier with the way that you look and the way that you feel, your confidence levels will improve dramatically, and you'll enjoy having more social interaction. Over the last few years, Hair transplant surgery has become a very popular cosmetic procedure, especially for men. This type of surgery can help rebuild receding hairlines, prevent baldness and renew hair growth, as well as helping those suffering with alopecia.

Improves Physical Health

Another advantage of undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure is that in some cases it can actually enhance your physical health. Examples of this include undergoing a rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, in order to breathe properly, or having liposuction/excess loose skin removed to help improve mobility and be more physically active in their everyday life.

We are constantly bombarded with photos and videos via social media on a daily basis, sharing what is deemed to be the “perfect face or body” of celebrities and content creators, but this isn't a 100% realistic view of these people. Online content can be edited and altered to give the illusion of a perfect face or figure, and we shouldn't compare ourselves in this way.

If you're considering surgery, then ultimately, make sure you are doing it for yourself and for no one else. Undergoing a cosmetic procedure should be researched and thought about realistically, carefully and properly – especially for factors such as the cost of the surgery and the recovery time following your procedure, as it's not something that should be decided upon overnight.

Would you consider having any cosmetic surgery procedures to improve your appearance or overall health?

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AD| In search of a New Year's resolution that you'll actually focus on and achieve? Look no further!

When it comes to New Year's resolutions, many people will struggle to keep up with their resolutions simply by being unrealistic or overambitious. In order to achieve your goals and targets for the year, you need to opt for changes that are manageable, maintainable and actually realistic, to help keep you on tack. Try to incorporate some of these simple New Year's resolution ideas into your daily routine for a healthier lifestyle in 2022.

— Improve Your Diet for Weight Management -

At the beginning of the New Year, many people look at ways in which they can improve their overall health by gaining, losing or maintaining their weight, whilst managing a better relationship with the food/drink that they consume. After indulging throughout the festive period and the New Year, health and fitness becomes many people's main focus for the year ahead.

To help you get started, there are a number of useful health and fitness conversion tools that can be found on the Culinary Schools website, e.g., calories calculator, body fat and weight loss. The weight loss calculator is an extremely useful tool to use in order for you to estimate how much you will need to change your diet and exercise routine in order to kickstart and reach your weight loss goals. The tool is super easy to use, you simply input all your personal data, e.g., height, weight, age, activity level etc, and all your results are laid out for you to clearly see, and to easily help you understand what steps you need to take for weight loss.

— Get Better Quality Sleep -

Sleep plays such a vital role in your overall health, it's essential for maintaining your physical and mental health, so it's important to make it a priority by getting at least 7 hours per night. In order to achieve better quality sleep, there are a number of changes you can make to your daily routine to make this happen. For example, follow a regular bedtime/wake time schedule, invest in new pillows, a new mattress and duvets for a more comfortable sleep, less screen time before bed, and try to avoid caffeine/alcohol late at night. Also, you could try using a sleep support patch. These are designed to help you fall asleep quickly and more comfortably, allowing you to achieve better quality sleep, and feeling refreshed upon waking up.

— Become More Active -

Using the New Year to become more active and find a physical activity/workout routine that you can actually enjoy is not only beneficial for your physical health, but it can also do wonders at improving your mental health. Not everyone will enjoy going on long-distance runs or bike rides, as this may be too strenuous and exhausting, but there are a few simple ways you can become more active in your everyday routine. By spending more time outdoors, getting some much-needed exercise, as well as some fresh air, is a good way to relieve stress and improve mental health. A few good examples include getting in 10,000 steps a day, yoga sessions, at-home workouts, weight-lifting, or even just going out for daily walks will all help to boost your fitness levels.

— Cook More and Less Takeaway Food -

Those of you who lead a busy lifestyle, you might find it easier to order a takeaway or pick up some fast food on your way home from work/school – but this could be stopping you from achieving an improved diet and healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that those who frequently cook their own meals at home will typically eat more healthily and consume fewer calories than those who regularly indulge in take-out foods – but eating these types of foods in moderation could be exactly what you need to balance in your diet. A takeaway once to twice a month isn't going to hurt…right?!

Cooking more at home doesn't have to be difficult, especially if you aren't so confident in the kitchen. You're simply not going to become a Michelin chef overnight, so practice makes perfect. If learning to cook is one of your New Year's resolutions, it's best to start off with a few basic recipes that you can practice time and time again to help improve your cooking confidence. I've previously featured a number of super simple recipes that you can include in your weekly meal ideas, these include Chicken and Broccoli Pesto Pasta, Beef Lasagne, Fiery Coconut Prawn Curry and a quick and easy Spiced Butternut Squash Soup.

— Make Time for Self Care -

If you're not making enough time for daily/weekly self-care, you're more likely to feel overwhelmed, stressed and unhappy. Practising self-care will not only make you feel more confident and more happy on the outside, but also on the inside. To help create a self-care routine that you can squeeze into your everyday life, try incorporating a few things that you enjoy or make you happy. These don't have to be anything too extravagant – maybe a nice relaxing bubble bath, a face mask, book yourself in for a massage, go for a walk in the park, or even take some time out of your schedule to make time for a new hobby or something you're passionate about.

What are your New Year's resolutions? What resolutions, goals and targets do you want to achieve in 2022?

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The average Brit spends around 90% of their day indoors and although it is something that most of us don’t even think about, indoor air pollution is a serious environmental issue that can have a direct impact on your health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Here we discuss and explain the importance of indoor air quality and the ways that effective home ventilation systems can benefit your health.

What Does Indoor Air Quality Mean?

Indoor air quality or IAQ is the term used to describe the quality of the air within and around a building or structure. Indoor air quality can have a direct effect on the comfort, health and wellbeing of occupants, with exposure to poor IAQ causing illnesses and long-term health implications.

What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?

There are a number of things that can affect the IAQ of a building from both indoor and outdoor sources. Here are some examples;

- Building materials such as asbestos, insulation and pressed woods which can release fibres and chemical gasses.

- The heating of wood, coal, fireplace and cooking appliances which can release carbon monoxide and other by products into the indoor environment.

- Cleaning supplies, insecticides, paints and common household products.

- Those from natural origins like pet dander, mould and radon.

- Smoke from chimneys that can make its way back inside.

- Soil, dust and outdoor pollutants bought in on people’s shoes and clothing.

How Can a Home Ventilation System Help?

Here are some of the ways that installing a home ventilation system can benefit your health;

● Proper ventilation works to rid your home of smoke, cooking odours, moisture and indoor pollutants by facilitating the free flow of clean, fresh air throughout the property.

● Indoor air pollution can lead to a number of health issues such as allergies, asthma, sinusitis, rashes, fatigue and headaches. Improving your IAQ can help to prevent and alleviate such issues caused by the indoor environment.

● For those who have asthma, things such as dust, mould, pollutants, mites and other potential triggers can get into air in the home and cause issues. Effective ventilation can help to improve the air quality, lowering the levels of these irritants and reducing asthma related symptoms.

● Being stuck indoors without proper ventilation can lead to a build-up of stale, stuffy and impure air. But a ventilation system can flush out bacteria, moisture, odours and pollutants with fresh, clean air from outside.

● In the warmer weather, trying to keep your home cool can be very difficult but the right ventilation can make it more comfortable and help with temperature and humidity control.

● For those who suffer with hay fever, some home ventilation systems can filter out large particles such as pollen which prevents them from entering the home and provides relief from symptoms.

● Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs are invisible gases that can lead to a number of health problems and come from sources such as permanent markers, air fresheners, cosmetics, cleaning products, paints, aerosol sprays and new furniture. With sufficient ventilation and clean, fresh air, potentially harmful VOCs are diluted to safer levels.

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AD| Many people find that exercise and other physical activities helps them maintain a positive mental health. This doesn't mean you need to be running marathons daily, spending every day at the gym or doing any activity that you absolutely hate.

There are lots of different exercises and activities you can do to be more active and better your lifestyle. It's important that you are choosing an activity that works for you and for your lifestyle. Having something you actually enjoy will definitely help boost you mood and mental state, as well as having something to look forward to and help you stay fit.

Running is an exercise good for both your physical health and mental health. One of the best and most common psychological benefits of running is stress relief. Endorphins and serotonin are released in your body through exercise, and these hormones are those that improve your mood as well as helping to reduce stress, depression and anxiety. Going for a run of any length, whether that be a few laps round the local park or a marathon, gives you time to think about your feelings or problems, get some much needed fresh air and to escape reality for a while. This form of exercise can also improve a person’s self-esteem, as well as helping you to feel rewarded and a sense of accomplishment.

For those who want something relaxing, calming and an exercise with lower body impact, yoga and meditation might be worth a go. Practising yoga can help to increase body awareness, relieve stress, reduce muscle tension/strain, and calms the nervous system. Yoga may be beneficial for those who find exercise hard, strenuous or difficult, as its a slower pace activity with easier, low impact movements. Yoga has so many incredible benefits, it would be silly not to try it.

Boxing style workouts using a punchbag are great for working out your entire body. Constant movements can help keep you agile, flexible and mobile. Boxing is a sport that can help teach you how to control/manage your anger, to stay focused and keep alert. As well as this, boxing is a great activity for relieving any stress or tension that builds up in our bodies.

Horse Riding is the perfect outdoor activity for those who loves to get some fresh air and are also extremely fond of animals. Horses specifically. Horse riding is definitely renowned for its benefits to our physical health, as well as helping to lower stress levels and improve your confidence. The study completed by The BHS concluded that "horseback riding stimulated mainly positive psychological feelings, with reducing depression by 30% as well as lowering the chance of dementia by 30%". Researching your local stables or horse riding centre might be worth a look at if you're keen on getting started with horse riding as a new hobby.

Cycling is a great activity for those who love to get outdoors into the fresh air and exercise at their own pace. Many people take up cycling as a hobby for both physical or mental health reasons including to improve fitness, building muscle or losing weight, as well as clearing their mind and enjoying the environment around us. A survey by Cycleplan found "75% of cyclists noticed an improvement in their mental health since getting on the saddle, with 8% even saying it helped with their depression or anxiety". Cycling can also help improve your social life as well, especially if you go with your friends, or even join a cycling club or class, allowing you to meet new people with similar interests to you.

Finally, swimming. Swimming is such an underrated activity when it comes to stress relief and weight loss. Swimming also allows the body to releases endorphin, that can help us achieve a sense of happiness and wellbeing. The benefits of regular swimming sessions are incredible, not only can this exercise help fight depression, anxiety and improve sleep patterns, but it is also very low impact and easy on your joints, making it a perfect activity for those struggling with their weight or the elderly.

What activities or exercises do you do to improve your mental health? Is there any hobbies that you want to take up?

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Online shopping has become the norm in today's digital age, and vitamin supplements are no exception. However, with so many options available, it can take time to make the right choice. This article aims to simplify the process by guiding how to make informed decisions when buying vitamin supplements online.

Before purchasing, we'll delve into the essential factors, equipping you with the knowledge needed for a stress-free and successful online shopping experience. From understanding the importance of third-party testing to recognising the signs of a reputable brand, we've got you covered. By following these best practices, you can confidently select the perfect supplements for your needs, supporting your path to optimal health.

The Convenience of Shopping for Vitamin Supplements Online

Shopping for vitamin supplements offers unparalleled convenience. You'll browse and compare items from the comfort of your home, read client reviews, and have your chosen supplements delivered directly to your doorstep. However, with ease comes the duty of ensuring your products are high quality and meet your particular health needs.

Factors to Consider When Buying Online Vitamin Supplements

Reputable Retailers: Start by choosing reputable online retailers or the official websites of trusted supplement brands. Reputable retailers are more likely to offer genuine, high-quality products.

Read Product Descriptions: Pay close attention to product descriptions. Look for detailed information about the ingredients, recommended usage, and potential side effects.

Certifications: Check GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certifications. These certifications ensure that the supplements meet specific quality standards.

Customer Reviews: Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and quality of a product. Look for products with positive feedback from other buyers.

Ingredient Transparency: Ensure that the product lists all ingredients. Avoid supplements with proprietary blends that hide ingredient quantities.

Dosage and Potency: Check if the supplement provides the recommended daily dosage of the specific vitamin you seek. It's essential to ensure that the potency matches your requirements.

Expiration Date: Always check the expiration date to ensure the supplement is fresh and compelling. Expired supplements may not provide the desired benefits.

Return Policy: Understand the retailer's return policy if unsatisfied with the product. A flexible return policy can offer peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Vitamin Supplements

Choosing those that match your health requirements is essential when purchasing vitamin supplements online. Consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is advisable. They can help identify dietary deficiencies regarding vitamins or minerals and recommend supplements that align with your specific health objectives. Their expertise ensures you make informed decisions, enhancing the effectiveness of your supplement regimen and overall well-being.

Online Shopping for vitamin supplements can be an innovative and time-saving way to support your health objectives. You can make well-informed decisions by considering the seller's credibility, certifications, customer feedback, ingredient disclosure, and unique health requirements. Remember that the appropriate vitamin supplements can augment a balanced diet and positively impact your well-being.

With these guidelines, you can browse and buy supplements online with assurance, knowing that you're investing in your health and getting the most value for your money.

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