December 31, 2024

 How does shoveling snow increase the risk of heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest? Shoveling is mostly arm work and that’s more taxing on the heart and many people hold their breath while lifting heavy snow, which raises your heart rate and blood pressure. When you’re shoveling snow, start gradually and pace yourself, cover your mouth and nose to warm the air you breathe and push or sweep snow rather than lifting and throwing it. Source Link 

It might seem at odds with common sense, but it’s better to brush your teeth before you eat first thing in the morning. That’s because the acid in foods can soften tooth enamel and you could damage that enamel by brushing too soon. If you want to eat before you brush, wait at least 30 minutes to do it. Source Link 

Here’s a simple three-step question with an answer that might help you save money. Before you buy something, ask yourself whether you "need it, love it, like it or want it." Purchase what you need and love, and skip the things you only like or want, because you’re probably just buying them for instant gratification. Source Link

December 30, 2024

Google can help you find out if what you’re seeing in an online product listing is what you’re really getting. Take a screenshot of the product photo or enter the page’s web address at images.google.com and do a reverse image search. It’s a warning sign if you see the same image in many other listings because it could be a stock photo and not what you’re actually buying. Source Link

Babies love them and anyone can benefit from a good nap if you do it right. The midday dip in alertness that most people feel between 1 and 4 pm is the best time for a nap that’s 30 to 90 minutes long, but even 20 minutes of shuteye can be helpful. Don’t nap late in the day or for too long because both could impact your sleep at night. Source Link

You don’t have to put up with flaky WiFi during your next hotel stay. Walk around your room to see if a particular spot gives you a better signal or ask if you can move to a room with better service. If all else fails, spring for the hotel’s premium Internet service that probably has fewer users, meaning you can get a better connection. Source Link

December 27, 2024

Here are a few simple hacks to get the most cleaning power from your dishwasher. Keep large pans and dishes away from the door because these can block detergent from dispensing. Spatulas and serving spoons go in the top rack where they’re less likely to fall down and block a spraying arm. And before starting a cycle, check the floor of the dishwasher for any fallen utensils or leftover food that might gum up the works. Source Link 

History can affect your homeowners insurance costs in several ways. The age of your home makes a difference, especially if you have things like original wiring or an older roof. A history of previous insurance claims could increase the premium. Your credit history may also be a factor, because those with a lower credit rating could be paying more for home insurance. Source Link 

There are lots of approaches to starting a conversation the right way. Begin with a simple icebreaker about the place or event you’re attending, or mention the weather. You can also ask a question to give the other person an opportunity to be helpful. Avoid any topic that’s offensive, controversial or uncomfortable and truly listen and express interest in what the other person is saying. Source Link

December 26, 2024

 Eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on fiber-rich foods and cut back on processed items that can drive you to overeat. Plan smaller dinners to make it easier for your body to process food before bedtime, and eat bread last because starting with proteins and fiber-rich vegetables slows down the digestion process to help you feel full for longer. Source Link 

You can protect your child from an online invasion of privacy by scrubbing their photos from social media accounts. Start with your own and contact other people or groups who may have posted photos of them and ask that they delete the pictures. Do a Google search of their name to see what’s there and ask Facebook, Instagram or TikTok to remove any photos of children under age 13. Source Link 

The old adage, “ask and you shall receive” can work when you want to lower some of your bills. In a study, three out of four credit card holders who requested a lower annual percentage rate got a reduction that averaged more than six percent. Phone plans, cable and internet costs and even medical charges are worth some haggling to get a discount on that bill. Source Link

December 23, 2024

 Your dentist wants you to know a few things to help keep your mouth healthy. Your gums should not regularly bleed while flossing, and skip charcoal toothpastes that won’t whiten your teeth but could make them more sensitive to hot and cold. And don’t self-medicate with alcohol or drugs if you’re nervous about an appointment because the dentist can provide what you need for a pain-free visit. Source Link

Sharing time with your long-distance grandchildren doesn’t have to be 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

There are times when shelling out for phone insurance is a smart buy. If your phone costs over $1,000 and you tend to drop it or have kids who play with your phone, it might be worth the extra fee on your monthly bill. But first check to see if your credit card includes phone insurance when you pay your bill with that card or invest in a sturdy phone case. Source Link

December 20, 2024

 These wardrobe swaps can help you avoid turning up the thermostat and those energy bills. Microscopic air pockets in fleece, wool and flannel make them better at insulating your body and wear warm slippers that cover the entire foot. And a hooded sweatshirt or sleeved or hooded blanket can cut down on heat loss from your head and make your whole body feel warmer. Source Link

Exercising to help control high blood pressure doesn’t have to mean becoming a jogger or joining a gym. You can get the recommended 30 minutes a day, five days a week of exercise using your own body weight and never need to leave home. You can even break up that daily goal into several smaller periods of exercise and taking a few short walks is a great way to start. Source Link

It’s like acupuncture but employs your fingers instead of needles to help with emotional issues. Emotional Freedom Technique is a mind-body program that uses your fingertips to tap on key acupressure points to relieve anxiety or depression. To get started, look for a therapist that specializes in E.F.T. Source Link

December 19, 2024

Training that helps you advance in the work world doesn’t have to be learning for a new job. Upskilling aims to expand and develop your current skills, and it’s important for many employers who see a skills gap in their workforce. Best of all, you can often get your employer to pay for upskilling classes. Source Link

It’s called a “baker’s week” and it might be the best choice for planning that next vacation. A seven-day getaway with an extra day at the end for traveling home can give you the feeling of a real break from a Monday thru Friday job. Booking a three-or-four-day trip may not be enough time to get into that relaxation groove. Source Link

Let's see if your bedtime routines among America’s favorites. In a survey, 39 percent of people took a bath or shower before bed, 29 percent read, and one in five used meditation or deep breathing. About half ran a fan to help them nod off, 29 percent had blackout curtains, and one in five used weighted blankets, sleep masks, noise machines, apps or ear plugs. Source Link

December 18, 2024

What kitchen tool comes in handy at Christmas or anytime you’re opening a gift? A can opener can make quick work on the edges of those rigid plastic cases. Line up the can opener along the edge, ensure a tight grip, and turn the opener as you would with a can to safely open that packaging. Source Link

Spending more can actually save you money if it’s on the right things. Analyze your buying and look for items you use consistently and stock-up. Then focus on finding the best prices, whether that’s watching for sales, taking advantage of coupons or buying in bulk at a membership store. Source Link 

Some driving habits may be a silent sign of a sleep disorder. Always needing a window open for a blast of cold air, sipping coffee behind the wheel, or cranking up the tunes during morning drive could be efforts to make up for poor sleep or even sleep apnea. It’s estimated that one in five collisions on the road may be caused by fatigue or sleepiness. Source Link

December 17, 2024

 When you’re getting ready to visit the doctor, be sure to bring everything you need besides an insurance card. That includes a written list of any questions and copies of any online health research that you can discuss with your doctor. And consider bringing a friend or family member who can offer support, take notes and advocate for you. Source Link 

Watching your carbs doesn’t mean you have to avoid these foods. Animal protein in meat and eggs has close to zero carbs, and seafood is low in carbs and can be high in beneficial fatty acids. The carbs in leafy green vegetables are mostly fiber, and nuts and seeds are a popular choice in a low-carb diet. Source Link_

Finding free WiFi away from home can be easier when you know where to look. Most coffee shops, malls and public libraries offer free WiFi, and you can find it near you by using an app like Instabridge or WiFi Map. To be safe, avoid doing anything involving financial accounts while on free WiFi, and use a VPN to improve privacy. Source Link_

December 16, 2024

As the days get shorter, it can trigger “Seasonal Affective Disorder,” but how do you know the winter blues you’re feeling really is SAD? A diagnosis of seasonal depression can only be made after two consecutive years with depression that begins and ends at the same time each year and with no symptoms during other times of the year. Source Link

You can prepare your car for winter driving with these simple steps. Make sure tires are properly inflated, clean and check your battery and check coolant levels. And you can prevent an icy lockout by lubricating window tracks with spray silicone or dry Teflon spray. You should also lubricate door locks and latches, including the one that opens your car’s hood. Source Link

There are some telltale signs that you may be the target of a scam artist. If someone claiming to be a retailer calls to question about a large order you didn’t make, or says they can connect you directly with your bank, or wants to stay on the line while you go to the bank, you’re probably dealing with a scammer. They may also ask you to buy gift cards to send to them or pretend they are police investigators. Source Link

December 13, 2024

 There are several ways that you can save for your child’s college education. A traditional savings account can be opened by you for your child, and a high-yield savings account will compound your interest earnings faster. Or consider a state-sponsored 529 savings program that gives you tax-free withdrawals for college education expenses. Source Link 

You’re drawing a blank while trying to remember something, so it’s time to do some real drawing. Studies have shown that making a drawing of an important thing can help you remember better. It doesn’t have to be a work of art because the process of drawing is what helps your brain lock in on the memory. Source Link 

When you need an emotional pick-me-up, try these simple things to help boost your mood. Take a walk with a friend, spend time in nature, turn on your favorite tunes or do deep breathing exercises. Drinking a glass of water can also help, or take a warm bath to soak away the stress. Source Link

December 12, 2024

 Looking for a gift that can also be good for you? An activity tracker is a great choice for the gadget fan and people who exercise might like a new yoga mat, exercise ball or slip-resistant socks. And a juicer can help anyone create a healthy breakfast. Source Link 

No one wants a case of food poisoning during the holidays, so remember these tips to keep things safe to eat. Never wash raw meat before cooking; that can spread bacteria in the sink area and forget the “five-second rule” because germs can get on food in an instant. But you can reheat leftovers multiple times, as long as they’re not left out for more than two hours. Source Link_

Some planning before you fly can help to avoid these common ailments that strike airline passengers. If you often get motion sickness, pick a seat over the wing, which is more stable. Changing air pressure on-board means you shouldn’t fly with an ear or sinus infection or an untreated toothache, and avoid carbonated beverages before takeoff because those bubbles can lead to stomach pain. Source Link_

December 11, 2024

Channeling your inner child might give you one of the best ways to exercise and fight the effects of aging. Jumping rope is a great aerobic workout that has other benefits. Perfecting the coordination needed to jump rope can train your mind and muscles to work together and that can lower your risk for slips and falls. Source Link 

Eating slower can help you improve digestion and enjoy food more, but how do you break the speed eating habit? Remove all distractions including your cell phone. And look at each bite, noticing the smell and texture before fully chewing it and going on to the next mouthful. A goal for mindful eating is to spend 20 minutes on each meal. Source Link_

A video doorbell is a popular option for many homeowners but here are some things to keep in mind before you buy one. There’s a monthly fee to store videos in the cloud but some models let you access recordings for free using a memory card installed in the doorbell. And don’t forget that video doorbells have a battery that needs to be recharged every few months. Source Link_

December 10, 2024

It’s round and holds your food, and could be key to keeping you from overeating. Using a plate for everything you eat including snacks can help prevent mindless eating and extra calories. And using smaller plates can help you eat less because it takes less food to make the plate look full. Source Link 

These out-of-the-ordinary upgrades are what more home sellers are adding. Listings are on the rise for homes with solar panels, EV chargers, whole-house batteries and induction cooktops. And on the personal side, more listings are showing homes with spa-inspired wet rooms that combine the shower and bathtub in one waterproof space. Source Link_

You may want to unplug that clever voicemail greeting to protect yourself from identity theft. Hackers can copy that recording to clone your voice for illegal use. A safer choice is using the generic voicemail outgoing message that’s available from all wireless carriers. Source Link_

December 9, 2024

Here’s how to dry your laundry faster by putting in more than clothes just out of the washer. Adding a clean, dry towel to a load for about 15 minutes will absorb moisture from wet clothes. You can do the same by adding a few white tennis balls, and remember to wring out any dripping wet clothes before they go into the dryer. Source Link 

A home warranty can save money on unexpected repairs but be sure to read the fine print. Some warranty companies charge a service call fee each time you file a claim and other plans may only offer a basic replacement or a refurbished model. And getting that installed may take significantly longer than if you paid for it yourself. Source Link 

You don’t want to depend on the hotel house cleaning staff when it comes to these items in a room. Coffee makers often just get a quick external wipe down and that ice bucket is used for many things and might not be sanitized even with a plastic liner. And unless there’s a visible stain, blankets, duvets and bedspreads may only be laundered once a year. Source Link

 

December 6, 2024

Refurbished tech products can give you the same quality at a lower price when you do your homework before you buy. Shop at an official store for that brand and look for at least a 90-day warranty. Open box returns or “like new” items are usually a safe bet and touchscreen models can be more reliable because they have fewer mechanical parts that can break. Source Link 

Hardly anyone reads all of a privacy policy for software, an app or a website, but you can zero-in on important topics with a simple keyboard search. Use the Control F function to look for words like, “sell,” “partners” and “affiliates,” or “geolocation” and “geotargeting” for tracking your location. And read sections with headings like “How we use your personal information.” Source Link 

You can lower an auto insurance bill by dropping some coverage, looking for more discounts or agreeing to let your insurer monitor you behind the wheel. See if the value of your older car is worth carrying collision and comprehensive coverage and look for all the discounts that are offered. You could also sign up for user-based insurance that tracks your driving in real time. Source Link

 

December 5, 2024

There’s a kitchen gadget that’s a time and money saver and is good for your health. A vacuum sealer inhibits bacteria growth and can keep foods fresh longer. You can also use a vacuum sealer to prepare your own meal kits by combining seasonings with individual portions of an entree that can go from the freezer to the oven or grill. Source Link 

Three simple ingredients along with water can make your own cleaning solutions to tackle most household chores. Mix one part white vinegar with one part water and a lemon rind for an all-purpose cleaner, or white vinegar, water and rubbing alcohol for a DIY glass cleaner. And baking soda and water mixed into a paste can be an effective scrubbing cleaner. Source Link

A high-protein breakfast that includes this can fill you up faster and longer and may even guard against type-2 diabetes. Testing showed that eating yogurt as part of a protein-rich, dairy-based breakfast also boosted focus in the morning compared to a carb-heavy breakfast or none at all. Source Link

December 4, 2024

Sudden cardiac arrest can kill in an instant, but often there are warning signs. Studies have shown that nearly half of victims experienced chest pains or shortness of breath in the days or weeks before they died. Such symptoms should always be checked by a doctor or with an emergency room visit, if necessary. Source Link 

Don’t click the link in that text or email saying a package is stuck at a shipping center, because it’s probably a scam. FedEx, UPS and the U.S. Postal Service will never text you from an unknown number and look for odd spellings in the email address of the sender. If you’re worried about a delivery, contact the shipping company directly. Source Link_

Plastic storage containers are not the place to keep these things. Raw meats, tomato sauces, fresh herbs and fruits are better off in a glass container with a tight lid. And books, leather goods and photographs can be damaged by moisture buildup in a plastic storage container. Source Link_

December 3, 2024

 Some home holiday cheer could be taking its toll on your web surfing and streaming. Christmas lights can interfere with WiFi signals, so be sure to keep them away from routers or computers. And it’s a good idea to keep your router away from other electronic devices, such as a TV or a baby monitor. Source Link

Two simple steps in the morning could help you get better sleep at night. Outdoor light exposure soon after waking plays a significant role in regulating our sleep-wake cycles. And physical activity in the morning acts as an additional cue to your body that it’s time to be awake and alert. Source Link_

What time of day is best for booking a flight? It depends on your travel style. Early morning flights often mean shorter security lines and leave more of the day once you arrive, but a midday flight is a much gentler way to travel without those early wake-ups. And an evening flight is often cheaper and lets you enjoy most of the day at a destination before heading home. Source Link_

December 2, 2024

 To lose water weight, avoid this four-letter word. Salt is a big part of processed foods and makes it more likely that your body will retain water. Natural foods, such as vegetables, seeds and nuts are low in salt and help keep water weight down. And drinking more water aids in kidney function that flushes excess salt and water from the body. Source Link 

We’ve all faced a mess in the microwave when food explodes while reheating it, but how do you prevent that? Turn down the power to 60 percent for most foods and 70 percent for denser things like meat. Stop several times and stir foods with lots of liquid and slice thick items into smaller pieces for more even heating. Source Link 

A slim piece of string could help connect you to better brain health. People who practiced daily flossing and brushing and got regular dental checkups had MRI’s that showed more healthy brain cells, and that could lead to a lower risk for stroke and dementia in later years. Source Link