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Should gauging your muscle mass be as vital as measuring weight and blood pressure at a doctor’s visit? Researchers found that people with less muscle had a lower survival rate when dealing with chronic ailments. Lower muscle mass meant longer stays in intensive care, less chance of beating breast cancer and led to more serious cases of Alzheimer’s. Source Link
We all know to keep tabs on our credit report, but other records could affect your chances of getting a new job. Doing a background check on yourself could uncover mistaken arrest warrants or ID theft that led to a suspended license. Experts say you need a professional background check and not the kind offered to consumers online. Source Link_
Being anxious about a visit to the dentist isn’t unusual but there are some things that can help. Tell the dentist or hygienist about your anxiety so they can help ease your fears and offer the best options to reduce pain. And keep to a regular schedule of checkups so that problems can be caught before they require major work. Source Link
You’re making a healthy choice by eating at the salad bar but don’t ruin it with unhealthy toppings. Mounds of shredded cheese and croutons or crispy noodles can add lots of calories and skip the taco or bread bowl. Grated cheese, fresh avocado or a spoonful of nuts or seeds can soup-up that salad without ditching your diet. Source Link_
What does it take to join the millionaires club? An author who interviewed hundreds of wealthy Americans found that most are early to bed and early to rise, read lots of nonfiction, make time for meditation and exercise, and work on improving their communication skills. Many also talk to themselves to create an inner dialogue for motivation. Source Link
If you’re a person who says you’ve seen a ghost, you have lots of company. A survey found that six out of ten people believe they’ve seen a ghost and one-third of them say they’ve lived in a house that’s haunted. And how do people react to a ghostly presence? Men were twice as likely to scream and run away but women screamed louder. Source Link
When a smoke alarm goes off in a house fire there might be just a moment to escape, so be sure you know two ways out. Fire safety experts recommend that you have two escape routes from every room and then rehearse with your family so everyone can safely escape your home within two minutes. Source Link
Planning ahead can help your child enjoy an allergy-safe Halloween. Don't let children eat candy that isn't clearly labeled for indications of possible allergens and bring safe treats for your child at school. And if your child has asthma bring an inhaler for trick-or-treating in case of exposure to smoke machines or mold while going door-to-door. Source Link
Is having a good scream good for you? Researchers found that after people visited a haunted house they felt less anxiety and stress and had higher levels of the hormone that helps humans bond with each other. The key to a healthy scare is having it in a controlled setting like a haunted house or watching a movie where you know you’re not in real danger. Source Link
High-tech and old-fashioned tools can help you lose weight and keep it off. Using a diet app to track the food you eat and writing a weekly meal plan can help to keep you disciplined. When you can’t plan ahead a cooked rotisserie chicken is a good choice for a quick meal and stock up on fresh fruits and nuts to help at snack time. Source Link_
Are you falling for some of these myths about motoring? Experts say you don’t get better fuel mileage with a truck tailgate down and you won’t get more gas if you fill up in the cool of the morning. Your coolant and air filter don’t need to be changed every time with the oil and you can replace just one tire if it’s the same brand, model and size. Source Link
Giving your to-do list letter grades might help you complete more assignments. An “A” item is significantly important with serious consequences if it’s not done. A “B” is something you should do but has a minor downside. A “C” would be nice to accomplish but not vital. A “D” is something to delegate to others and an “E” task is one you can eliminate. Source Link
Sitting is considered a health risk and using a stand-up desk can be good for your body, but what about your mind? Researchers found that people who used combination sit-stand desk for a year were on their feet an average of 80 minutes a day and reported lower levels of anxiety and job fatigue and more engagement at work. Source Link
You might want to think twice before putting your infant in a baby box. Experts say there’s no proof that a cardboard box with a mattress reduces the risk of sudden infant death. But there could be a risk of injury because the cardboard is flammable and placing it on the floor can expose the baby to low-level drafts, pets and young siblings. Source Link
If you like to catch some sleep on an airline flight, don’t close your eyes until you’re up in the air. Sleeping through takeoff or landing doesn’t allow you to adjust to rapid air pressure changes. That could leave your ears blocked up and cause dizziness, eardrum damage, nosebleeds and even hearing loss. Source Link_
The price tag for being a pet parent continues to climb and a leading cause seems very familiar to us humans. A new report says the typical pet owner pays between $9,000 and $13,000 for medical care for a dog or cat over its lifetime. Only one in ten pets is covered by health insurance now but experts think that number could double by 2022. Source Link
Halloween could be hazardous to your health if you’re not careful when carving that pumpkin. More than 3,000 people went to the ER last year with pumpkin carving injuries and a leading cause was using knives that are not made for thick pumpkin skin. A safer alternative that kids can enjoy is to decorate a pumpkin by painting it. Source Link__
If you live life on your iPhone, you can find out what Apple has on file about you. They’ve launched a new website where you can request a copy of your data that’s been collected. Apple says most data is only stored on your phone and it can take up to seven days to receive your report. Go to privacy.apple.com. Source Link
What’s the sweet spot for shuteye? A worldwide study found that people who slept an average of seven to eight hours a night performed better on mental ability tests than those who got more or less sleep. And burning the candle at both ends can really age you. People who got only four hours of sleep a night performed as if they were almost nine years older. Source Link
For many people, “home sweet home” is not their refuge from the world. In a survey, only about half of people said they get a sense of belonging at home whether they live alone or with family, friends or strangers. Nearly half of Americans said their favorite quiet spot was sitting by themselves in a car. Source Link
While most new phones have bigger screens there are some that think smaller is better. The new Palm ultra-mobile phone literally fits in the palm of your hand and has a limited set of Google apps. You can go even smaller with a new phone debuting in Japan that’s the size of a credit card or try the Light Phone 2 that’s just for just calls, texts and alarms. Source Link
You can build a home gym around the kinds of activities that you enjoy. If that’s walking or running, try a treadmill or elliptical trainer. A rowing machine is great if you like cross-country skiing. A thick, washable mat is a must for floor exercises and strength training can use a simple set of resistance bands, dumbbells and free weights or a multi-station home weight machine. Source Link__
When it comes to your teeth, the most effective brushing is not so fast, not so hard and not just on top. Plaque builds up at the gum line so focus your brushing there with smaller, gentle strokes. Don’t hold the toothbrush tightly in your fist - a fingertip grip will help you brush correctly - and be sure to brush for at least two minutes twice a day. Source Link
You need to read the fine print before you download that subscription app to your iPhone for a free trial. Users are complaining that some apps automatically charge them as much as $169 for an annual subscription as soon as the trial period ends. You give the approval to charge the credit card attached to your Apple account when you start using the trial version. Source Link
Sharing time with your long-distance grandchildren doesn’t have to be just a phone call or a FaceTime session. You can work on projects together, whether that’s drawing in a shared sketchbook or building the same hobby items. You can also read the same books and then discuss them with your grandchildren. Source Link
When your mind races after you wake up in the middle of the night you can try these tips to get back to sleep. Get out of bed and read a book - but nothing too exciting - or listen to an audiobook or a podcast that’s not a shoutfest. You can also head to the kitchen for a light snack like whole-grain crackers or popcorn that has carbs to help switch-on the body’s sleep hormones. Source Link__
A green thumb can make your home more healthy when you keep plants that clean toxic chemicals from the air. A spider plant, bamboo plant or aloe vera plant can remove formaldehyde from indoor air and a philodendron can remove chemicals from paint thinners. All are easy to care for and only need occasional watering. Source Link
You can make this a better day on a count of three. Start by taking three deep breaths every time you sit down at your desk or step to your work spot. Deep breathing calms the nervous system and is the first step to learning meditation that can reduce stress and help you deal with emotional issues. Source Link
Cold season is coming soon but don’t be quick to give a young child some medicine for that coughing and sneezing. Experts say over-the-counter cough and cold remedies should not be given to children younger than 6 because there's no evidence they help and store-bought medicines carry potentially dangerous side-effects for kids. Source Link__
You probably have a better memory for faces than you realize. A study found that the average person can recognize about 5,000 faces, including people they know from their personal lives, as well as famous faces. Researchers say some people have a natural ability to put a face to a name and others get better at it by focusing on a face when they meet someone. Source Link
Eating less often might be a powerful tool in the fight against type-2 diabetes. A study found that men who fasted on alternate days lost weight, reduced blood sugar levels and were able to stop taking some medications. You should always talk with your doctor before making any change in your diabetes treatment program. Source Link
There’s hope if you have a “black thumb” and are always killing houseplants. Start simple and avoid those that flower and know what’s too much or too little water for your plant. Check instructions to see if it needs direct or indirect sun and don’t be quick to toss that sick plant if all it needs is some extra care. Source Link
Is hugging it out good for you on a hard day? In a study, people who got a comforting hug felt less upset and ended the day in a better mood. It goes both ways because research has shown that people who are huggers also have better overall health and stronger relationships. Source Link
Training to prevent falls can help seniors avoid an injury that may land them in a nursing home. A study found that seniors could reduce their risk for a fall with a strength and balance program, medication changes, corrective eyewear and occupational therapy. One in four people over 65 falls each year and some never fully recover. Source Link
If eating out is showing up on your waistline there are ways to beat that bulge. Choose a restaurant with healthier fare, like Asian cuisine or Greek or Spanish that feature fish, grilled lean meat and vegetables. Look for online menus and know what you’ll have before you arrive. And instead of an entree try sharing several appetizers and have one dessert for all. Source Link__
Hands-free control of your Android smartphone is taking a big step forward with a new app. Google Voice Access allows users to write text and navigate through apps with voice commands by assigning numbers to clickable buttons and controls. It also adds more voice commands to control functions like turning Bluetooth or WiFi on and off. Source Link
You can turn that old cell phone into a security device at home or on the road. Use a free app with your phone’s camera to make it a home monitor or to keep an eye on your baby at night. Or put the old phone on a cheap or free plan and keep it on in your car as a backup if you lose your phone or as a tracking device if your car is stolen. Source Link
It’s an old debate in the world of recycling - do you really need to rinse out items? Experts say a quick water rinse or just a shake and a wipe with a paper towel works fine. If you recycle paper, cans and jars together make sure any leftover food isn’t dripping on the paper. Source Link__
Do you want your credit card to be a rewarding experience or a real deal? It depends on how you use it. Rewards credit cards are good for people who pay off their balance each month and those who carry a balance are better off with the lowest interest rate. A survey found that nearly half of Americans don’t understand the basics of credit cards. Source Link
Most of us aren’t very good at picking strong passwords. Some of the biggest no-no’s are using names of sports teams, brands or pop culture references, or reusing passwords with slight variations. Experts suggest using a free password manager program that creates strong unique passwords and remembers them for you. Source Link
How can you “clearly” improve the look of your refrigerator and maybe your waistline too? Put small items like yogurt cups in clear plastic bins so they don’t get lost in the back of a shelf. And keep fresh fruit and raw vegetables up front in a clear container so you can see your way to healthy snacking. Source Link
There’s a right way to make your morning routine work for mind and body. Instead of jumping out of bed, first bring your knees to your chest to warm up muscles and then drink a glass of water to rehydrate your body. And don’t check your cell phone immediately because that list of notifications can mean a stressful start to the day. Source Link__
What if your smartphone could tell when you’ve been in an accident and immediately call for help? The Noonlight app uses a phone’s sensors to detect changes in motion and position that may mean you’ve been in an accident and then dials 9-1-1. The makers say the $10 a month service also works in a pedestrian or bike accident or if you’ve fallen. Source Link
If you find yourself skipping one meal a day, you’re not alone. Three out of four people surveyed said they don’t eat three meals a day and lunch is often the one they missed. The average person ate two meals a day and snacked three times with one of those snack sessions taking the place of lunch. Source Link
Sometimes you may be sick of going to the gym, but when are you too sick to exercise? Experts say if your cold symptoms are only from the neck up you’re probably OK for an easy workout, but body achiness like you get with the flu is a stop sign for your exercise plan. It’s also good for others because you can easily spread cold germs at the gym. Source Link__
Telephone scams are getting harder to spot with computer voice technology that can sound like a conversation with a real person. The scams usually involve a call from a bank or credit card company to get your PIN number for an account. Experts say you should never give out personal account information to someone who calls you. Source Link
You might want to cap off that next meal with a short stroll. Studies have shown that a 15-minute walk after a meal can have more health benefits than a 45-minute walk at mid-morning or afternoon. Exercise can combat the surge in blood sugar that happens after you eat and can also aid in digestion. Source Link
This is good news if you’re a person who’s always anxious about making a good first impression. Testing found that most people in first meetings underestimate how much the other person liked them. It’s The so-called “liking gap” is important because being over-critical might stop you from wanting to make a new friend. Source Link__
It’s easy to eat healthy anytime when you stock your freezer with these items. Frozen shrimp or fish fillets are rich in protein and low in fat and frozen vegetables can be as nutritious as fresh. Frozen berries make a great smoothie and whole wheat flatbreads or tortillas will keep in the freezer for months. And satisfy that sweet tooth with 100 percent frozen fruit bars. Source Link__
Adults still have a lot to learn about the dangers of using a phone behind the wheel. A survey found that half of parents or caregivers talk on the phone and one in four are texting and 13 percent use social media when driving with kids in the car. Distracted driving is blamed for a quarter of all traffic-related deaths and injuries. Source Link
In the fight against Alzheimer’s and memory loss, you can start with your heart. The same steps that promote heart health can protect the brain. That includes losing extra weight, eating a healthy diet, managing blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, getting physically active and not smoking. Source Link__
Despite safety improvements, baby walkers still injure thousands of children each year in tip-over accidents down steps and stairs. Experts say a sunken living room or finished basement may be the only safe spots to use one. Baby walkers don’t speed up a child’s ability to walk and a stationary activity center is safer and better for infant development. Source Link
If your home internet connection is hardly high speed there are some simple ways to get back into the fast lane. Make sure your router is out in the open and not in a cabinet and unplug it for a moment to reset. If the router is more than a few years old you might replace it with a new one that’s priced a bit higher and has more processing power. Source Link
The makers of the Scrabble game are making it easier to score more points. The official Scrabble Dictionary has 300 new words like “bestie”, “beatdown” and “twerk.” The list of two-letter words that are coveted by every Scrabble player now includes “ok” and “ew.” Source Link
It’s seven weeks away but retail experts already know what tech deals to look for on Black Friday. TV prices could be as low as $180 for a 50-inch 4K model and you might find discounts on the new iPhone but not at the Apple store. Toy buyers should resist the urge to shop because the best prices are often found two weeks after Black Friday. Source Link
Most of us aren’t very good at picking strong passwords. Some of the biggest no-no’s are using names of sports teams, brands or pop culture references, or reusing passwords with slight variations. Experts suggest using a free password manager program that creates strong unique passwords and remembers them for you. Source Link
How can you “clearly” improve the look of your refrigerator and maybe your waistline too? Put small items like yogurt cups in clear plastic bins so they don’t get lost in the back of a shelf. And keep fresh fruit and raw vegetables up front in a clear container so you can see your way to healthy snacking. Source Link
“Just Say No” doesn’t work, so the best way to beat junk food cravings may be to lean into them. A technique called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy teaches that you shouldn’t deny those triggers. Instead, accept them and develop a stronger set of life goals and make a commitment to behaviors that lead to success. Source Link
Fixing up your home shouldn’t land you in divorce court, but remodeling projects are stressful for many people. Experts say you can avoid problems by agreeing to a vision and a budget before you shop for a contractor and decide who will steer the project once it begins. DIY’ers may need even more planning because it’s just the two of you doing all the work. Source Link
Parents say sleep problems for teens are common and they know the culprit. A survey found that late-night use of electronics was the number-one cause, followed by a schedule that’s too busy and worries about school and social life. When consulting a doctor, most were told to turn off phones and tablets at bedtime, stick to a regular sleep schedule and limit caffeine. Source Link
If you can’t attend motivational meetings for weight loss you can tackle that diet challenge with an online program. Look for one that offers personalized calorie counts and menu plans with a grocery list, a physical activity plan tailored to you, weekly tips for weight loss and an online forum for support anytime. Source Link
You can make your iPhone more secure with a few simple steps. Turn on automatic updates to get the latest security fixes and two-factor authorization that uses your phone along with a password to log into sites. The iPhone device passcode is no longer limited to four numbers and you can create a longer one to make it harder to hack. Source Link
Can you get a handle on that home clutter by answering two questions? Start by categorizing items as useful or decorative. For useful items, ask yourself if you’ve used it in the past year. For decorative pieces, ask yourself if you “love” it. If the answer to the question is “no” it’s time to sell, recycle, give away or donate the item. Source Link
Think of it as spring cleaning, except it happens in fall and the chores are outdoors. Store your lawn mower safely by draining the gasoline and replacing it with a special fuel mix that has no ethanol. And speaking of draining, don’t forget to winterize that sprinkler system by blowing out all water from the lines and from any sprinkler heads. Source Link
Brushing your teeth is part of the morning ritual but should you do it before or after breakfast? You want to clean your teeth every morning to remove bacteria that builds up overnight, but brushing right after breakfast or any meal can be hard on tooth enamel that’s softened by eating. Waiting about 30 minutes to brush can protect your teeth from damage. Source Link
Getting the most from your health insurance isn’t something to do only when you’re sick. Many policies include wellness programs to improve your health and help you avoid chronic conditions. Nutrition, smoking cessation, fitness, combating substance abuse and stress management are among the common wellness offerings that are often free or discounted. Source Link
Cleaning by number is one way to tackle the clutter in your home. Pick a number of things you’ll put away in one session and focus on one thing at a time, like stray shoes or getting rid of unneeded extras of some item. And always keep one box or bag ready to hold items that can be donated. Source Link
To graduate to better fitness, pick classes at the gym that cover all the subjects. For strength training that’s Pilates or classes using resistance bands or kettlebells. You can cover cardio with spinning, stepping or dance classes and flexibility with yoga or tai chi that have the added benefit of easing stress. Source Link
Six out of ten Americans suffer digital eye strain from too much screen time, but there are some simple remedies. Position a computer monitor so your eye level is 15 inches above the center of the screen and remember the 20-20-20 rule -- every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You should also make a conscious effort to blink more. Source Link
