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Risks of drinking tap water and benefits of a water purifier

Risks of drinking tap water and benefits of a water purifier
The US Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, is an organization that is responsible for the drinking water regulations in the country. And while tap water may be safe for some, it may not be the recommended choice for many. There could also be some side effects from drinking tap water, which are mentioned below. This article also highlights why a water purifier is recommended. Tap water regulations and side effects According to the EPA, anything other than water molecules found in the water is termed a contaminant. However, the EPA suggests that some contaminants are not as harmful at certain levels. The contaminant list includes bacteria, viruses, parasites, industrial runoff, lead, mercury, arsenic, and pesticides. Radium or uranium deposits in the soil could also contaminate the water in some areas. Here are some of the side effects of drinking tap water: In tap water, these contaminants are at deficient levels, and it is not that they are always present. However, if they reach the human body in huge quantities, it can lead to many health issues. Arsenic is known to trigger partial paralysis in some people, vomiting, numbness in hands and feet, stomach pain, diarrhea, discoloration of the skin, and blindness.

7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets

7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets
Carpets are a significant part of the home’s aesthetics. However, not many people know how to care well for them. This results in frequent mistakes that can damage the carpets and cost a lot of money. These have been recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), and steering clear of them can help extend the life of the upholstery. Read on to learn about seven carpet cleaning mistakes and ways to avoid them. Scrubbing vigorously Scrubbing carpets too hard is not an effective way to remove the stains. In fact, it causes more damage to the fibers and can push the stain in deeper. Instead of scrubbing, try a blotting motion to lift any stains before following up with cleaners. Acting too slow Don’t wait for a spill to dry up, as this can make cleaning tougher. During this time, the spill seeps through the carpet fibers and reaches the padding, increasing the risk of mold growth. Try to clean it up as quickly as possible. Using the wrong products Today, carpets are made of a variety of fabrics. Each of the fabrics requires special care and attention, including certain cleaning products. Using the wrong cleaners can damage the integrity of the fibers and worsen fraying.

5 mistakes small businesses should avoid in online reputation management

5 mistakes small businesses should avoid in online reputation management
A business’s online reputation can make or break it, which means it can attract new customers or cause them to lose them to a competitor. Online reviews and social media impact small businesses; managing this online presence is crucial for success. Businesses employ dos and don’ts when doing so, and these become tentpoles to sustain the brand. One can safeguard their business’ reputation by avoiding common mistakes and implementing effective reputation management techniques. Neglecting online feedback A business’s online reputation should be actively managed as part of its digital marketing strategy; assuming it will take care of itself is a costly mistake. Negative reviews or comments, if left unaddressed, can quickly escalate, favoring the disgruntled party with a probable large following. This escalation can damage the business’s reputation and be challenging to control. Underutilizing social media Social media platforms offer opportunities to engage with the audience, showcase the brand, and quickly address concerns. When a business is not active on social media, it deprives itself of vital interaction, exposure, a chance to connect with customers, and an attempt to achieve brand loyalty. DIY reputation management Some professionals have the expertise, resources, and know-how to handle a business’s online reputation. For small businesses, handling their online presence can quickly get overwhelming, and they may fall behind in monitoring mentions, responding to queries, and addressing negative feedback.

5 common window installation mistakes to avoid

5 common window installation mistakes to avoid
Installing new windows in a home is an excellent way to give it a new look. Home improvement projects like this are a lot of fun to manage, especially if they are DIY projects. However, if one does not have enough experience with such projects, one may end up making some common mistakes that can cost one dearly. This article lists a few such mistakes one can avoid when installing windows at home. Incorrect measurements It is extremely important to get the measurements of the window right. The window can be built to any size, so one must always be careful when taking measurements. If the window is of the standard size, it may be easy to work with as these are readily available. However, if it is a custom size, one must carefully tailor the requirements accordingly. Wrong-size jambs Jambs are critical in supporting and securing the window during the installation process. When measuring the window, it is also important to measure the width of the jambs. This ensures a snug fit of the window, which is important for its proper functioning. Improper weather-resistant barrier When the weather-resistant barrier is not installed properly during construction, it can lead to various issues in the future.

5 common wristband branding mistakes to avoid

5 common wristband branding mistakes to avoid
Wristbands aren’t just functional accessories. They currently serve as one of the more effective and popular tools to spread awareness of a brand, company, event, or festival. Whether in promotional events or as merchandise, wristbands are the go-to product, and that’s why it’s so important to get it right. Here are some common wristband branding mistakes that companies should avoid if they want to ensure their brand messaging is loud and clear to their audience. Poor design Wristband designs should be visually appealing, easily recognizable, and aligned with the company’s brand identity. Cluttered designs, busy patterns, illegible fonts, excessive text, and unclear logos can defeat the purpose. Creativity, while essential in branding, can backfire if the design is overcomplicated or too obscure. Clean, simple, and easily recognizable with a minimalist approach is often a bigger success story. Colors, too, play a crucial role in branding, and designers must ensure that the wristband colors complement the brand. They must also avoid colors that make reading the text difficult. Customization features such as embossing, debossing, color-fill, or glow-in-the-dark effects should be explored to the fullest. Low-quality materials Using cheap, flimsy materials can reflect negatively on the brand. High-quality materials and those that would be comfortable and durable should be used.

4 mistakes to avoid when buying furniture

4 mistakes to avoid when buying furniture
Buying new furniture for the home can be exciting, as it gives individuals a chance to give their home or space a new look. However, when purchasing furniture, it is also important to be mindful of certain things and steer clear of some common pitfalls. Otherwise, one might end up regretting their purchase decision. So here are a few common mistakes individuals must avoid when buying new furniture for their home. 1. Not getting exact measurements Before purchasing furniture, one must measure the space where they want to place a particular piece of furniture. One should also include the dimensions of the hallway, the door, or any other space the furniture has to pass through. Even at the time of purchase, it is important to take measurements of the furniture that one is planning to buy. Making purchases based on assumed or approximated measurements is never a good idea. A furniture piece that is too bulky might make the room feel smaller or have to be placed elsewhere, and a furniture piece that is too small might look misplaced. 2. Not testing before buying The main purpose of furniture pieces such as chairs, beds, or sofa sets is to provide comfort.

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5 things to avoid doing in hotels

One of the joys of traveling is getting comfortable hotel accommodation for your stay. Just as we expect great service from these hotels, they expect the guests to follow certain protocols to make the experience pleasurable. It is important to understand this tacit agreement. On that note, here are some vital tips to remind you of things that you should avoid doing when you are staying in a hotel. Keep the bathroom door shut Taking a hot shower at the end of the day and sliding into the comfy blanket is one of the perks of being in a hotel. However, make sure you keep the bathroom door shut. The steam from the shower can enter the room and trigger the fire alarm. Don’t cover the smoke alarms Almost all hotels always have a smoking room available for their guests, as they understand it is a requirement for some. However, some guests will take a room that comes with a smoke alarm and cover the smoke alarms whenever they wish to indulge in activities that may set off the alarm. Avoid using the throw pillows Some hotels have these delicate items in the room, like throw pillows to add some personality to the room. However, if you notice, a lot of these items do not have a sleeve cover, and many hotels do not clean these pillows after every guest’s departure. These items could be a hotbed of germs, so it is best to avoid these throw pillows altogether. Stealing bathrobes is a big no-no It is normal to pack the shampoo, conditioner, and tea sachets from hotels. Most people do it, and it is quite acceptable as the customers pay for them. However, some may try to grab other items like bathrobes or coat hangers. Make sure to keep these items in the room after using them.

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial. Guests get assigned the best rooms with better views and even upgrades for using the hotel’s official website. Booking at the wrong time Hotels usually try to fill up as many rooms as possible with advance booking while reserving some rooms for last-minute travelers. Book rooms well in advance, especially if you make plans for the holiday season. Hotels can double or triple their room prices for tourists who fail to book in advance. Not signing up for hotel rewards Hotels offer loyalty programs and membership benefits to frequent travelers. Loyalty points can be redeemed at the hotel front desk or online to book free stays and travel on your next vacation.

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs

Flea and ticks are common parasites that carry different types of diseases. These pests thrive in soft and warm environments, and the pet’s fur is a perfect home for them. If left unchecked, they can cause severe complications. But there are simple ways to control and prevent this problem. Here are some effective preventive treatments, plants that repel parasites, changes in daily foods, and DIY remedies to manage the infestation: Effective treatments Simparica TRIO oral chews are suitable for dogs eight weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. The tablet should be given once a month.  K9 Advantix II, on the other hand, is another popular monthly flea protection treatment that is effective within the first 12 hours of consumption. K9 Advantix is suitable for dogs seven weeks or older, weighing at least 4.4 lbs.  Bravetco® is a more long-lasting alternative as one tablet can prevent flea and tick infestations for 12 weeks. Bravetco® is available in five dosing options, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Some heartworm prescriptions like Advantage Multi® topical solution and Trifexis® oral chews also help counter flea and tick infections. Immunity boosting meals and foods Consult with a vet to better understand what dogs should eat daily to develop more resilience and fight flea and tick infestations. For example, garlic can ward off parasites and is safe to include in small quantities for most breeds. But ensure the garlic is always freshly chopped. Honey pairs well with this garlic mixture and boosts immunity to combat common allergens that trigger flea infestations. Helpful plants that repel parasites Swapping out old plants for pet-friendly plants can actually help repel fleas and ticks. Basil, catnip, chamomile, chrysanthemum, eucalyptus, plantain, garlic, lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, mint, pennyroyal, rosemary, rue, sage, tansy, thyme, wormwood, and yarrow are all acceptable choices.

3 tips that may help prevent and manage prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. It is estimated that one in eight men is at risk, and the number gets higher in those above the age of 65. Thankfully, modern treatments and prescriptions have made it easier. Also, certain lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits, and effective measures for prevention lower the risk. Here is how early diagnosis, treatments, and simple suggestions can improve the quality of life. Prescription treatments Xofigo contains a radioactive element called radium RA 223 dichloride. The injection works well in a short-range radius to counter the spread of prostate cancer in the bone. Enzalutamide, marketed under the brand name XTANDI, is an alternative treatment option. Those who don’t respond well to hormonal or surgical treatments can consider these injections to lower and manage testosterone levels. XTANDI works by actively inhibiting androgen receptors to prevent or reduce cancer cell growth. Prescriptions aside, doctors suggest cryotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy for those who respond to regular treatments. However, the treatments vary depending on the spread of cancer and the severity of the symptoms. Best foods for prevention Tomatoes and watermelon are rich in lycopene and beneficial for prostate cancer prevention. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower contain phytochemicals that help combat cancer-growing cells. Additionally, citrus-rich fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes, help boost immunity. Tofu, chickpeas, lentils, sprouts, and peanuts contain isoflavones, which help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Note that daily foods must also supplement omega-3 fatty acids and folates sourced from fatty fish, leafy greens, and fortified whole foods. Overall, nutritionists recommend including more foods rich in antioxidants to fight oxidative damage. Effective lifestyle changes Exercise is one of the most significant changes to implement in daily routine. Any form of physical activity, including walking, running, jogging, and weight training, can help maintain a healthy body weight.

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4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

Overactive bladder or OAB is a health condition that causes frequent and sudden urge to urinate. Statistics suggest that close to 35 million people in the country suffer from overactive bladder. Some people also experience urinary incontinence or unintentional loss of urine. It can be embarrassing to deal with the condition, as it can limit one’s social and professional life. The following tips can be used to effectively manage an overactive bladder: Typical treatment options Before we discuss tips for managing an overactive bladder, it is important to be aware of some treatment options. GEMTESA (vibegron) is one such treatment option. It activates beta-3 receptors, thereby allowing the bladder to relax and provide relief from being overactive. Apart from this, Myrbetriq can also be used for treating an overactive bladder, as it smoothens the muscles around the urinary bladder, increasing its storage capacity. Other options include TOVIAZ and INVOKANA®. Add cranberries to your food regimen  Cranberries are widely used to treat problems associated with bladder control. Similarly, other berries like strawberries and blueberries are also abundant in vitamin C, which can neutralize bad bacteria and prevent urinary tract infections. Berries also have high water content, which maintains hydration levels and helps manage bladder control. Cranberries can be eaten alone or can be added to smoothies, salads, and other delicious recipes. Limit washing and wiping Sanitary hygiene is essential. However, it can be counterintuitive going overboard. Women with overactive bladder experiencing menstruation might feel the constant need to clean themselves. However, excessive cleaning with soap can make the area dry and itchy, and it can aggravate symptoms of an overactive bladder. Hence it is recommended to avoid going overboard on washing and wiping or use hydrating cleaning products to retain the moisture. Practice exercises for bladder control Changes in certain habits related to urination can ease the symptoms or help retain bladder strength in the long run.
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5 tips to manage migraine attacks

5 tips to manage migraine attacks

Migraine is characterized by throbbing, lingering pain on either side of the head. It is common among those between 30 and 40 and more prevalent among women than men. According to research, at least 39 million people in the country live with migraine. Many people with this condition are sensitive to light and sound. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency of migraines. Here are some effective ways that can help cope with migraines: Treatments People with migraines need to keep medications handy. Some of the common medicines used by adults for migraine attacks are UBRELVY™, Excedrin, Nurtec® ODT, and QULIPTA™. They block pathways in the brain that are responsible for migraine attacks. A doctor might also recommend preventive medicines if one experiences frequent and severe headaches that don’t respond well to treatment. These medications might reduce how often one gets an attack and reduce its severity. Foods to eat Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are high in antioxidants and fat and are great for keeping overall health in check. Magnesium-rich foods like avocados, apricots, almonds, cashews, and brown rice help the blood vessels relax and prevent headaches. Other items that help prevent headaches include leafy greens, dairy, and calcium-rich foods. Those who experience frequent migraine attacks are also often recommended to reduce the intake of high-sodium foods. Lifestyle choices Having a healthy sleep cycle is very rewarding. It’s good for one’s physical and mental health. Getting quality sleep every night can significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Migraines usually occur when the body doesn’t get enough rest and is stressed. Hydration and cold compress It’s essential to be hydrated at all times to help reduce the frequency of migraines. The body requires a certain amount of electrolytes and fluids to work its best. When one doesn’t replace these fluids and electrolytes, it causes dehydration, triggering migraine.
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