healthy living

Health and Medicine Tips Intro

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Welcome to our healthy living website. On this site we will attempt to educate and inform anyone interested in maintaining better health about products and lifestyle changes which we feel would benefit our readers.

It may be a product that we have tested and approve, or it may be an exercise routing or dietary supplement, but whatever it is you can be assured that we have tested and decided that it is something that we would use ourselves.

After years of working in the health and fitness industries, and my wife and I having a passion for both, it seems an obvious move to try and help others live a better life by using and learning about products and methods that we like, use and recommend.

It is not an all inclusive authority on healthy living, but if it proves to be something that will contribute to a healthy lifestyle and better health then we will try to include it here. As well as articles about what we think you should be doing, we will also try to include information about what you should not be doing too, anything that we feel would contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle.

Nothing in this blog is intended to compete with the advice of a trained professional, but hopefully our opinions will be informative and helpful at the very least.

The term healthy living usually refers to a balance of both mental and physical states. These are always closely linked, and something that is either good or bad in one usually has an effect on the other. As such we intend to have articles about both, including exercise, diet and nutrition for both adults and children. Both the good andhealthy living toolantipro the bad, vegetable and snacks will be covered in detail.

Some of the basics will include:

Eating regularly.
Eating a balanced diet.
Include fresh meat, fish, nuts and eggs.
Look for foods with low saturated fat content.
Keep portion size low.
Avoid snacks and sugary drinks
Dont eat before bedtime.
Add supplements and minerals as needed.
Always cook food thoroughly.

Watch the video below for some great tips to start your new healthy lifestyle

These and other subjects we hope to include, as well as home remedies, hair and beauty solutions and diet and fitness.

Bookmark this website and check back regularly for healthy living advice.

Learn About the Ground Preparation For Artificial Grass

RicVilla

Skagerak_Arena_turfEvery time that summer comes around in our house we start to dread the grass pollen season. Within a few months of the birth of our son, we realised that he suffered from allergies.

Now his much older, and some of his allergies are not such a problem, but grass pollen always causes flu like symptoms for several weeks in the summer.

One of the ways that we have tried to limit this is by installing artificial grass in our back yard. We called our local installer and within a week we had lush green lawn without the hassle.

If you are considering doing the same, you can of course lay the whole thing yourself.

In creating an artificial grass lawn, one of the most important aspect is ground preparation. It’s only after you’ve completed the preparation that you will be ready to install the artificial grass lawn. So read on to find out the steps one is expected to take in ground preparation.

Measuring

To begin with, mark off the area to be measured. You can do this using a spray paint or sand. And while doing this, it’s best to incorporate an overlap of 100mm over each edge. This is for coverage over the timber perimeter. Naturally, in keeping a clean edge around the artificial lawn, a perimeter is always installed. You can either use timber or concrete perimeter.

Artificial grass usually is supplied in 2 meter and 4 meter wide rolls and it can be supplied to different lengths to match your preferences. Ensure you measure accurately so as you can calculate the exact length and width needed.

Surveying

Knowing the ground conditions is very important before one installs artificial grass. You can begin by assessing whether the ground terrain is subject to poor drainage. If that’s the case, then ensure you take proper measures to install an appropriate drainage system.

In the case where you are constructing a new sub-surface to take the artificial grass, it’s best to incorporate a slight fall in order to assist with drainage (1: 200 is preferable). Alternatively, you can use porous macadam as it’s particularly suitable for use a sub base for any type of artificial grass.

When it comes to the base, take care if you have to use paving slabs. This is because, after some time, the pattern will always show on the surface of the grass. You can take good care of this by either removing the slabs or covering them with a thick layer of coarse sand. Better still, you can use well compacted unbounded surfaces. It’s ideal especially if you are building the artificial lawn from scratch.

While you can lay the artificial grass directly on the existing natural grass, the results are not always satisfactory in the long term. When the natural grass dies off, and the roots begin to decay, that will lead to unevenness in the surface. The above-mentioned procedure is sure to prevent such problems from happening.

Removing the existing lawn

You can remove the grass sod plus any other vegetation and unnecessary material by hand or you can as well a turf cutter. Proceed to grade out the soil to recommended levels all the while getting rid of protruding stones. Also, take care of the drainage and then finalize by compacting the ground using a vibrating plate. You can hire the vibrating plate from a company that specializes in the hiring equipment.

Weed control layer

Ensure you apply the weed control geo textile membrane. Don’t forget to cut it as necessary. You can tack it with 1 inch galvanized clout nails right onto timber edging. This particular membrane will help to prevent any chance of weed growing through the artificial grass drainage holes.

Once the ground preparation is complete, you can proceed to install your artificial grass. Then you can sit back and relax in the knowledge that the artificial grass will look fantastic and require low maintenance.

Get Ready For Barbeque Season – But Keep It Healthy

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bbqI love a good barbecue just as much as the next person, and now is the time to get working on your backyard and grill to get ready for the summer.

The tips below are here to help you to quickly and safely do just that, but I also want to remind everyone to avoid any non biologically friendly cleaners, not to use firelighters or fuel and use compressed newspaper instead, and to always avoid burnt food, which can be carcinogenic.

Always let your coals go grey to lose their initial high heat before grilling any food, which will minimise the chances of burning the outside, which is dangerous, and not cooking the inside properly, which is also dangerous.

Summertime and grilling go hand in hand. Whether you left your grill exposed to all elements or you mothballed it, chances are that it still needs clean up and maintenance. Before you start grilling this summer, it is important to get the grill ready first. The following tips will help you get ready for the barbecue season.

· Spider patrol

You should ensure that the barbecue grill has no spiders or any other insects trapped in the manifolds, below the burner knobs or even in the burner tubes. Also clear all the cobwebs before you start using the grill.

· Check for leaks

Carefully inspect the hoses and replace those that look damaged, cracked or crimped. You can easily detect the leaks by making a solution using equal amounts of water and dish soap then brush the mixture on the connectors and hoses.

Open the shut off valve and if you notice any bubbling, then there is a leak at that particular point. When you notice this, turn off the gas immediately and do not attempt to light it up until the leak is repaired.

Though leaks are rare, they can be very risky when they occur.


Food Safety Video

· Lubricate before lighting

In case the moving parts of the grill such as the burner knobs do not turn freely, lubricate them using silicone spray or WD-40. If you are using a charcoal grill, ensure that the vents close and open easily if not, lubricate them then twist them to and fro until they do.

· Ignition suspicion

You should ensure that the igniter switch is operating properly. If there is a spark and a click, consider replacing the battery by unscrewing the lock nut located in front of button or just after the control panel. Most people do not know that grill igniter uses a battery and it requires regular replacing.

· Clean the grill

You certainly cleaned the entire grill after the previous season but you will need to clean it again for this season. Clean the drip pan then line it with new aluminum foil. Using a garden trowel, scrap the firebox out on the charcoal grill then empty the ash trays.

To clean the grill gate, after lighting the grill, preheat the grill to extremely hot then use wire grill brush to brush it clean. You can use oiled paper towel to wipe it.

The most recommended way of cleaning a unclean grill is to burn it at high intensity.

· Rank the tank

Inspect the LP tank for any signs of bulging, rust, separation of the seams or any other distress, and if there is anything that is not airtight, have it repaired and tightened.

· Light it properly

To do this, open the lid of the grill, it should stay open throughout the process, then open propane cylinder valve so that the gas can start flowing and switch on the burner by pushing the igniter button several times.

The grill will light after a number of tries, wait until the propane clears and try again.

· Think safetydeck

Always check the outside areas for safety too before inviting hoards of friends round to party. Having been the recipient of a nasty wound myself due to a neglected wooden deck, it is adviseable to always inspect and maintain your outdoor furniture and landscaping.

If necessary, your local handyman is only a phone call away, and for a minimal call out charge you can have peace of mind that your guests will all go home in one piece!

 

 

 

Do We Really Need Supplements?

dave.clark100@gmail.com

This problem is something that I wrestle with all the time. If you listen to the so called experts, we need to take all kinds of supplements for our diet. But with a good and comprehensive diet I am not really sure that supplements are necessary at all.

While doing some research into this problem I found the video above, which has had almost 60,000 views, so it must be worth a watch. Let me know your thoughts through our contact page.

An Earth Friendly Option For Your Kitchen

dave.clark100@gmail.com

new kitchen doorsI wanted to include this information on this blog because I found a solution to my problem, that worked for me on several levels. I saved money, I got what I wanted, and I did all of this in a way that doesn’t cause a problem for our planet, so I thought I would share in the hope that somebody else will be inspired to do the same.

That all sounds a bit dramatic I know, but my kitchen at home has been there since before we owned the house, so more than 10 years, and it was looking old and worn out, in fact it was probably the worst room in the house.

I did a lot of research, as I always do, and came across the idea of keeping my perfectly good kitchen cabinets, or carcasses as they are called, and I just replaced the doors, drawers and worktops. With the money I saved I was able to buy a new sink and some appliances. Perfect.

There are kitchen door replacement business all over the place, but I had never heard of them. I’m sure there will be one near you too, so do yourself and the planet a favour, the next time you are thinking of a kitchen upgrade, give them a call.

While replacing kitchen doors can help breathe new life to an old kitchen, there are however many home owners out there who don’t really see the importance of replacing their kitchen doors while carrying out their home improvement projects.

Whether you want to replace your kitchen doors simply because they are old or you want to make a remarkable difference in your kitchen, replacing your kitchen doors can help change your kitchen for the better. Here is why replacing kitchen doors is a great idea.

1. It can help give your kitchen a new look 

Even when your kitchen doors are structurally sound, you may still want a new look rather than the same old kitchen you are used to. Replacing the kitchen doors can help you achieve that new look, thanks to the fact that you will only need to pick a door style that is completely different from your current door style. If you have been living with raised panel doors for instance and now you want your kitchen to have a new look, you can try Shaker styling or any other door style of your choice. Choosing a new door style for your kitchen can help make a huge difference in your kitchen altogether.

2. It can help you get rid of old, tired kitchen doorskitchen doors

With time, your kitchen doors will become old and tired and hence they may start developing some structural problems. Old kitchen doors can make your kitchen look outdated, even when you haven’t used your kitchen for a long time. They can also lead to inconvenience in the sense that, you will have problems closing and locking them. By replacing your kitchen doors, you will be able to get rid of old, tired kitchen doors and replace them with other new, strong and structurally sound doors.

3. It can help increase the value of your kitchen 

If you are looking forward to selling your home, then kitchen doors replacement should top the list of your home improvement project. Nearly all prospective home buyers will shy away from a home with old, stained and old fashioned kitchen doors. That is why you need to have your kitchen doors replaced, not just for purposes of breathing new life to your kitchen, but most importantly for increasing its value. A kitchen with a great set of kitchen doors can help increase the value of the entire home, hence making prospective home buyers become more interested in buying it.

4. It is much cheaper than a whole kitchen facelift

At times the thought of having a whole kitchen facelift may seem costly especially when you are operating on a budget. But the simple act of replacing your kitchen doors can help transform your kitchen from an outdated kitchen into something modern and sleek that you can feel proud to show off to your visitors.

Kitchen doors replacement can do more than breathe new life to your outdated kitchen. It is actually one of the most important things you can do to change the look of your kitchen for the better. Therefore, make a point of replacing your kitchen doors and you will discover firsthand why replacing your kitchen doors is indeed a great idea… and remember, you are helping to save the planet too!

Watch this video below for some inspirational ideas.

Healthy Food Swaps

dave.clark100@gmail.com

I saw this image and it made me smile! My wife is always trying to find new ways to make healthier food, mainly because she is allergic to gluten and has an auto immune problem, so for our dinner we often get grated cauliflower instead of rice, and strips of courgette in place of pasta.

It always tastes good though, and often we seem to do things just because we always have. Try some of the ideas below, you may well be surprised. As always send me your comments or ideas from the contact page.
tumblr_nhx2rewELp1srfz27o1_r1_1280

Why Install A Wood Burning Stove in your Home

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healthy wood fireI was prompted to write this article about wood burning stoves on a health and fitness website for a couple of reasons. The first is that I have just installed one in my house and I just love it! It is romantic, warm, cosy, efficient, inexpensive, and more. But also, it seems that there is a health benefit to using a wood burning stove.

We all know that breathing in wood smoke is not good for you, however when using the newer CPA approved stoves that isn’t a problem any more, and if you can smell smoke then you are breathing in impurities which are not good for you, so always go for one of the newer sealed pollution free stoves, but also one study has shown that using a wood burning stove is good for your skin, much better than the skin problems caused by central heating systems and oil fired heating systems… who knew? These newer scientifically designed stoves are perfectly safe, and I could not now live without mine I’m sure.

To be safe and stay healthy, you should always have your stove installed by a certified HETAS engineer. This way you can be sure that your new stove is installed correctly and will be safe and enjoyable without any of the potential health risks.

Wood burning stoves have gained a lot of popularity among many home owners. This is because they offer a lot of benefits that you might not get from other types of stoves. Unlike those found in the past times, new technologies have come up. The new technologies have made the wood burning stove more energy efficient and cleaner. Therefore, you can use them in your home without a lot of problems. If you are considering to have the stove ion your home, you do not have to worry because you will gain a lot of benefits. Here are some of the reasons you should install a wood burning stove.

Cost effectiveness

Studies have shown that a wood burning stove can help you save a lot of money. The modern wooden stoves can help you save up to 80 percent of energy cost in your home. It can help in reduction of your heating costs because wood cost less compared to oil, electricity and natural gas. However, in order to get the best results, it is good to make use of your wooden stove to supplement another source of heat such as gas furnace or electricity. You can save a lot of money that you can use for other important home projects.

Offer more warmth in your home

While you might have a heating system that is supposed to warm your house, at times it might not provide the amount of heat that you might require. A wooden burning stove coming from a wooden stove will make your family more comfortable because it will give more heat especially during the winter months when it is extremely cold.

More environmental friendly

By installing wood burning stove in your home, you will be contributing to many initiatives geared towards environmental conservation. Wood is one of the green fuel alternative simply because trees can be sustained and are also renewable. While there are some people who restrict the use of wood heating appliances due to low quality air levels, this does not occur when you use the modern wooden burning stove. The modern wooden stoves have low emission technologies clean exhaust gases. This means that they produce less smoke that has low levels of particle emissions.

Provide heat when there is power outage

When there is power outages, you can use the wooden burning stove to provide heat in your home. With this type of stove, you do not have to worry of not having enough heat, when natural gas or electricity goes off during the cold season. It is also possible to cook using your stove, so it offers wide range of benefits in such situations.

Add beauty to your home

Wood burning stoves add beauty to your home. During the cold evenings, a wood burning fire makes your room more appealing. The wooden stoves come in wide range of shapes, colors, sizes and styles. This means that you will get a stove that will fit your home décor, thus making your home have a better look.

You could always cheat

If after all my excited postulating you decide that a log fire is not for you, you could always cheat and put an app on your phone or mobile device that looks like a real fire, and I am sure that it makes you feel warmer to. Check it out in the video below.

Why We Should Be Walking 10,000 Steps Per Day

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Did you know that the recommendation now is that we walk 10,000 steps per day! Wow, that is staggering, or rather, I would be staggering if I had to walk that far.

The new ifit and other sports bands that log your activity has been driving this type of recommendation, so that we can monitor how much we move and become aware of the health benefits of doing that.

I was prompted to write this blog because I came across the video below and it got me thinking about how much I move, and more importantly, how much more I should move.

I hope you watch it too and it gives you some ideas. Please contact me and let me know your thoughts.

healthy feet

6 Best Tips To Help Prevent Toenail Fungus

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Avoiding toe nail fungi might not be at the top of your order of business, however maybe it must be. Fungis are almost all over in our environment, and they especially like dark, damp, warm locations, like inside your shoes. That makes it fairly simple to come across a toe nail fungal infection (onychomycosis).

Almost half of all nail conditions are because of toe nail fungal infection, and the condition influences about 14 percent of the population, according to a research released in the July 2014 problem of The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

How Toenail Fungal Infections Develop
Toenail fungal infections are usually due to tiny organisms called dermatophytes. These organisms feed upon keratin, the protein discovered in nails and hair.

“Most people get a toe nail fungi from a fungal skin infection such as professional athlete’s foot that transfers to the nail,” states Jane E. Andersen, DPM, a podiatric doctor at Chapel Hill Foot and Ankle Associates in North Carolina and a representative for the American Podiatric Medical Association. If toe nails are damaged by pressure from uncomfortable shoes, for circumstances, they become more vulnerable to fungi, she states.

Toenail fungi can trigger the nails to end up being thick, stained, and breakable. Toenail fungi can even trigger the toe nail to fall apart and separate from the nail bed.

Doing away with a toe nail fungal infection can be hard due to the fact that it can be resistant to treatment, which can take months. “Prevention is necessary due to the fact that as soon as the fungal infection enters the nail, it ends up being a lot more tough to deal with,” Andersen states.

Healthy Habits to Prevent Toenail Fungus
Healthy feet depend upon better health, so it is essential to keep your toes clean and dry. Follow these 7 pointers to prevent a toe nail fungal infection.

Clip your toe nails properly. Cut your toe nails with appropriately sterilized nail scissors or clippers and make sure to cut them directly throughout.toe nail fungus
“Shoes should not be touching your toe nails in any method,” Andersen states. The American Academy of Family Physicians advises purchasing shoes with a large toe box that will not constrain your toes.

The more air that’s able to distribute around your feet, the drier and less vulnerable to toenail fungi they’ll be. Your finest bets: Shoes made of a breathable product like leather or canvas, according to the American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine.

Alternate your shoes. Putting on shoes that are still damp from the other day’s sweaty exercise will just enhance your threat of a toe nail fungal infection, so invest in a couple of excellent pairs and turn them. “Don’t put on the very same pair of shoes 2 days in a row,” Andersen states.

Locker spaces, public swimming pools, showers, and comparable locations are packed with fungis simply waiting to get to your toes. “Always use flip-flops, shoes, or shower shoes in a wet environment,” Andersen states.

Scrub your shower and decontaminate it with a bleach-based cleanser, Andersen states. Spray your shoes with an anti-bacterial spray, particularly if you’ve used them without socks, and clean all socks in hot water with bleach to eliminate any fungis.

Do not forget to routinely utilize a great anti fungal foot powder in your shoes and sock prior to using them each time to avoid the development of fungal spores.

There are now laser treatments available for stubborn toe nail fungal problems. Watch the video below for more information.

invisalign braces

Are Invisible Braces the best option for everyone?

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If you or a family member are considering having braces fitted to correct misaligned teeth or other similar dental problems, you will probably be faced with a couple of choices. There are the older traditional metal and spring braces that we are used to seeing, and the more recent invisible plastic aligners, that are becoming more and more popular.

Here is a short discussion to give you some information before you get to the decision stage.

Invisalign aligners are  almost undetectable, so other people do not know that you are going through orthodontic treatment, and you can wear them with confidence You need to take out the alignment trays while eating, and prior to changing them you need to floss and brush. Since the treatment is easier I have actually discovered that many of my clients’ oral health has often improved and they have found that they have actually lost weight.

Watch the review video below for some ideas of how this system may work for you.

 

5 Advantages of Invisalign over conventional braces
Misaligned or jagged teeth do not just look unpleasant, they can very often make cleaning the teeth tough. Teeth that can not be appropriately cleaned can ultimately contract gum illness. This can cause gum and bone damage, in addition to missing teeth. Also, many adults are particularly conscious of wearing conventional braces because of how they look

Below are 5 factors why one may want to pick Invisalign over old-fashioned metal braces:.

1. How They Look.
Invisalign Clear Braces Look Better.
They are distinctly more appealing than metal braces.

2. Convenience.
When Necessary, clear Braces Can Be Removed.
As soon as your orthodontics expert connects metal braces to the teeth, the braces have to stay in location until they are expertly removed. Invisalign clear braces are detachable. If, for any reason, the user of teeth aligners wants to remove them for short amounts of time (for example while eating), she or he can quickly do this.

3. Security.
Invisalign Clear Braces Reduce Damage to Teeth and Gums.
Clear braces are comfy and smooth. They do not consist of any sharp edges or extending bits or edges. In general, clear braces minimize the damage usually triggered by using braces, consisting of metal parts and springs.

4. Period of Treatment.
Invisalign Clear Braces Straighten Teeth Faster.
Somebody who puts on metal braces can very often anticipate the treatment to take as long as 5 years. Invisalign can straighten your teeth in as little as one year, up to 18 months to work its magic and align your teeth.

5. Understanding What to Expect.
There are No Surprises with Invisalign Braces. When planning your invidalign treatment, dental clients go through treatment planning that is totally electronic. They understand precisely what to anticipate and how long they will be required to wear the braces prior to start using them.

Metal braces can be a trial-and-error circumstance that provides no clear concept of exactly what is to come. In general, Invisalign offers many unique benefits over standard metal braces.

So in conclusion, clear braces offer a quicker, more convenient and less obtrusive option for teeth straightening. The negative side of the argument is the cost. Invisalign clear braces are usually more expensive than a conventional system.

You need to decide which method is best for you or your family member, and get the best advice available from your local Orthodontist. Call this dentist free advice, even if you are not in their area they are always happy to help, or send  an email, you can see the contact details on the web page http://invisalign-nottingham.co.uk

oral health

Heart and Oral Health

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Heart and Oral Health.

Did you know that there are proven links between the health of your mouth and the health of your heart?

Several recent studies have shown that there are two separate connections between your oral and heart health. It has been shown that if you have moderate to advanced disease of your gums, then you have a higher chance of having heart disease than someone with healthy gums. The health of your mouth reflects your general health. And it has been proven that checking your oral health can show early signs of other conditions or diseases of the body.

So how is your health?

The factors that cause us to have diseases such as smoking, unhealthy eating are the same as those that cause gum disease. And it has been found that people with chronic gum disease are at a much higer risk of suffering a heart attack.

Plaque building up at or below your gum line is the main cause of gingivitis and periodontal diseases. It has been suggested by experts that the reason gum disease and heart disease are connected, is because some of the bacteria in infected gums is able to pass into the bloodstream and contribute to the formation of clots, and also the inflammation from the gums can trigger clot formation too.

A clot build up in blood flowing to the heart slows the circulation, causing an increase in blood pressure and will increase the chances of an attack.

Some researches have suggested that many body diseases can have symptoms that show up in the mouth. Patients that have been effected by heart disease can be assisted by their dentist, if during a regular exam they check for any inflammation, and also infection and/or pain. And the American Dental Association has shown that proper and complete treatment, diagnosis and regular check ups of these patients has contributed to a lowering of blood pressure and better health overall.

So be sure to tell your dentist if you suffer from any heart condition, and also of any medication that you are taking. You should also always take any prescribed healthy mouth sighanti-biotics or medication in the appropriate manner, and follow directions from your dentist and doctor. Did you know that eighty percent of US adults suffer from gum disease, which is very often undiagnosed.

Some of the warning signs of gum disease are:

Loose or wobbly teeth
Bleeding of gums when cleaning
Bad breath and mouth taste
Receding and swollen gums

The best person to help maintain and control dental and gum disease is yourself.

You should always regularly clean and floss your teeth and gums.
Schedule regular dental check ups and visits to remove any plaque or bacteria and tarter deposits.
Look for any signs of disease or distress and report it to your dental provider.

Great teeth are also a major factor in looking good and feeling confident. A bright smile expresses your personality and makes you feel good about yourself. Your dentist is also able to offer teeth whitening services in his surgery. You may want to enquire during your next visit.

If your teeth and gums are in top healthy condition, then why not have a bright white smile too.

There are also home teeth whitening kits available, which can be done in the comfort of your own home and at a lower cost. A search on the internet will reveal many such products. We have used one ourselves, which we recommend, and you can find it on this website: http://rapidoblanquearlosdientes.es  and there are also some great home remedies for teeth whitening on the website too, but you may also want to ask your dentist for his advice.

So be sure to keep a regular check on your dental health, and visit your dentist regularly, to help maintain your heart health.

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