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4 top tips for upgrading your health and wellness routine

2023-04-18T04:01:00

(BPT) – For many, the longer days, warmer temperatures, and blooming flowers of spring and summer bring a renewed sense of energy and motivation to paint the garage or freshen up the garden. However, it is also the perfect time of the year to devote your energy to personal health and wellness improvement projects.

To prepare for the warmer seasons ahead, Dr. Leah Joseph, a board-certified primary care physician at Teladoc Health, the world’s largest telehealth company, shares her top tips for upgrading health and wellness routines.

Tidy up your sleep schedule

People tend to appreciate the longer days of spring and summer. But more early morning sunshine, along with life’s other distractions, can wreak havoc on sleep schedules.

Joseph recommends that people prioritize getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night and stresses that consistency is the key to reaping the rewards of a good night’s rest. “Establishing a sleep schedule that conditions your body to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, including weekends, helps your body get into a natural rhythm,” she says. “To get into a routine, try setting a bedtime alert on your phone or placing a note next to your TV to remind you of your bedtime.”

And when interruptions and sleepless nights do happen, people shouldn’t dwell on it because the stress can make it even harder to get back into a sleep rhythm. Joseph recommends accepting the interruption as a temporary lapse and trying again for better sleep the next night.

Dig into your diet

More sun and rising temperatures make it easier to find fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables, staples of a healthy diet. Eating plenty of whole foods, including vegetables and fruits, can lower blood pressure, lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, help with digestion problems and have a positive effect on blood sugar, which can help keep appetites under control.

“Focus on what you can control around healthy eating choices and learn to adapt to things outside of your power,” suggests Joseph. “Look for chances to add color to your plate with fruits and veggies and cook with fresh ingredients when you can.”

In addition to support from your primary care physician, registered nutritionists and dietitians can help design a healthy eating strategy with the right mix of whole foods. In many cases, meeting with dietary experts can be done easily and conveniently online.

Take it outside

Joseph says one of the most important things you can do for your overall health is to prioritize getting enough physical activity. Getting daily exercise doesn’t have to be intense or complicated. Taking a quick walk around the neighborhood or local park can have significant benefits for everyone, no matter an individual’s fitness level.

“If you can, find a partner to help keep you motivated to move,” recommends Joseph. “Ask friends and family to work out with you, and make it unique to you. They’ll help you stay on track, and you’ll have more fun doing it.”

She advises that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to exercise, and that people need to try different activities until they find at least one that they enjoy enough to engage in regularly.

Pick up with your primary care provider

It is always easier to stay on top of health goals and priorities with an expert by your side. Your primary care provider (PCP) can help navigate every aspect of health and wellness, from a new health goal to a new health diagnosis.

Scheduling an appointment with a PCP is the best way to stay on top of health needs. Regular check-ins are key to disease prevention, controlling common chronic diseases, mental wellness and coordinating testing and specialist care, when it’s needed.

“Too often, I see that people wait to see a doctor until there is an issue or an emergency,” commented Joseph. “With regular visits, I can establish relationships with my patients and help them identify any potential concerns early and often. It saves a lot of time and pain down the road.”

While it may seem time-consuming to schedule and attend regular appointments, new digital tools — like virtual care — are making it easier than ever to check in with a PCP, wherever and whenever is convenient for you. Plus, companies like Teladoc Health offer access to primary care, chronic care, dermatology, nutrition services and more, all from one place, to help you seamlessly keep up with every aspect of your health.

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New survey shows many love their pets more than people

2023-04-17T23:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re like many pet parents, your pet means the world to you and is an important part of your family. And you’re not alone. A new survey found that nearly one in six respondents tell their pet they love them more often than they tell their partner. This Pet Parent Pulse Survey, commissioned by MetLife Pet Insurance, also found that eight in 10 pet parents would rather spend time with their pet than go on a first date.

Your pet is family

While those statistics may sound surprising at first, they may seem less so when you also consider that the Pet Parent Pulse Survey also found most pet parents (78%) said they consider their pet to be their child, with 69% also stating that they love their pet more than some of their family members. Millennials (25- to 40-year-olds), in particular, are more likely than older pet parents to prefer spending their free time with their pet instead of with people (83% of millennials, compared to 71% of pet parents aged 57 and up).

But considering your pet to be a part of the family means caring for them that way, too. Pet parents are likely to put their pet’s needs and wants high on their to-do list, including making sure their pet is well-fed, feeling loved, and that their healthcare needs are looked after. Beyond regular checkups to ensure their pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and other preventive measures that safeguard their well-being, pet parenting also includes going to a veterinarian in an emergency and in some unfortunate cases, funding major health procedures or surgeries.

In light of current economic uncertainties, though, over half of pet parents (54%) worry about being able to care for their pet in the future, according to additional research from MetLife Pet Insurance. While caring for a pet can be a significant financial obligation over the course of many years, many pet parents would say that the love and companionship they receive from their pet makes the cost well worth it — but taking action today can help prevent additional financial stress in the future.

How you can protect your relationship with your pet — and your wallet

Just as you may have other types of insurance, like health insurance for your two-legged family members, pet insurance can help pet parents give their furry family members the care they need to live a happy and healthy life. Accidents happen, but when preventative measures are taken, pet parents can ensure their animal companion is protected from the unexpected.

For example, MetLife Pet Insurance can be a flexible, supportive resource available as you care for your pet through all the ups and downs of their life. Through advantages like 24/7 telehealth access in their mobile app (may not be available in all states), as well as grief counseling for members of a pet’s family, MetLife Pet Insurance goes beyond basic pet healthcare to provide support to you during all times of need. Opting into this offering can also give you financial peace of mind as an innovative, affordable tool to help defend your finances against unexpected expenses like vet bills.

“One of the greatest acts of love a pet parent can undertake is to ensure the health and safety of their pet,” said Brian Jorgensen, head of MetLife Pet Insurance. “The good news is, we provide pet parents with the support they need to care for their pet — without breaking the bank.”

Just as your relationship with your pet is unique, you can find customizable coverage that’s designed to fit your budget and your pet’s particular needs for less than you may think. To get a free quote, visit MetLifePetInsurance.com.

Taking good care of your pet today will help you be able to enjoy that special bond with them for many years to come.

About MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions, LLC

MetLife Pet coverage is underwritten by Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, and Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 11333 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85454. Coverage subject to restrictions, exclusions and limitations and application is subject to underwriting review. See policy or contact MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC (“MetLife Pet”) for complete details. MetLife Pet is the policy administrator. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota) and MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois).

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Are you guilty of ‘wishcycling’?

2023-04-17T17:05:00

(BPT) – ‘Wishcycling’ is a buzzword for the act of putting items into a recycling bin and hoping they will be recycled. We’ve all done it. And while our intentions may be good, more often than not, we have no idea where our materials end up or whether our efforts are even worth it. But with a better understanding of how to properly recycle different types of items, we can all do our part to combat the mounting stress on our landfills and planet. Following are a few tips and tricks for making your recycling wishes come true.

Separate stretchy films from other plastics

You might be thinking plastic is plastic but, when it comes to recycling, there are actually six categories of plastics. To distinguish between these different types of plastic, look for the number within the recycling symbol on the product or packaging.

  • #1: PET or PETE is the most common plastic for single-use bottled beverages, mouthwash bottles, salad dressing and peanut butter containers.
  • #2: HDPE (high density polyethylene) is used in many packing items, including milk jugs, juice bottles, some trash and shopping bags and cereal box liners.
  • #3: PVC or V plastic can be found in blister packaging, wire jacketing, siding, windows and piping.
  • #4: LDPE (low density polyethylene) is a flexible plastic found in items like bread bags, packaging for frozen foods, newspaper sleeves, dry cleaning bags and grocery/retail shopping bags.
  • #5: PP plastic is found in yogurt containers, syrup and medicine bottles, caps and straws.
  • #6: PS includes items like disposable plates and cups, meat trays, egg cartons, carry-out containers and aspirin bottles.

Generally, the higher the number, the less recyclable the material is. Most recycling centers will accept #1 plastics without a problem, but other rigid plastics (#3, #5 and #7) can be tricky. Double-check what’s acceptable in your local area before contaminating collection bins.

Plastics marked as #2 or #4 are considered flexible plastics or films and must be handled differently from other types of plastic. Due to their stretchy nature, they cannot be recycled through standard curbside or single-stream recycling programs because they can jam machinery during the sorting process, causing mechanical issues, delays and contamination. These plastics need to be separated from other recyclables and processed through recycling programs dedicated specifically to HDPE and LDPE materials.

Know where your recyclables go

The best way to stop wishcycling is to focus on upcycling. This means knowing exactly where your recyclables are going and how they will be used. For instance, Trex® composite decking is sustainably made from 95% reclaimed materials, including a mix of industrial wood scrap and recycled polyethylene plastic film, nearly all of which comes from post-consumer sources. Through its nationwide NexTrex® recycling program, the company partners with more than 32,000 grocery store chains and major retailers along with thousands of schools and community groups to make it easy and convenient for eco-minded consumers to responsibly dispose of #2 and #4 flexible plastics and give them new life as beautiful, durable and eco-friendly composite decking. One of the largest recyclers of plastic film in North America, Trex has saved more than 5 billion pounds of HDPE and LDPE plastics from winding up in landfills over the past 30 years. A complete list of items that can be recycled by Trex along with a list of plastic film drop-off locations by state is available on the company’s website.

Make recycling part of your routine

Recycling doesn’t have to be a chore. It can easily be done as part of your daily routine. Most grocery stores have collection bins conveniently positioned at the front of the store. Many schools, churches and community centers also participate in recycling programs and serve as drop-off points for local residents. Check your municipality’s website to learn more about the programs your community has in place for recycling, or visit NexTrex.com to find a plastic film drop-off location near you.

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5 books to help you explore the natural beauty of the U.S.

2023-04-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – April 22-30 is National Parks Week, the perfect time to get out or start planning a trip to one of the 424 national park sites across the United States. The National Park System dates back to 1916 and encompasses 85 million acres of land across all 50 states. You can easily find a park nearby or look for one to travel to and enjoy the majesty of nature.

Not sure where to start? Check out these five books that will inspire you to head out on your next park adventure:

1. 100 Trails, 5,000 Ideas

Are you a seasoned camper and hiker or a novice planning a future outdoor adventure? Pick up a copy of 100 Trails, 5,000 Ideas, the authoritative travel guide to the best hiking treks across the U.S. and Canada, with practical planning advice for when to go and what to expect.

Check out tips for wildlife spotting, scenic picnic locales, routes with a view, campsites and off-trail activities nearby. Plus, you’ll discover alternative routes to extend your trek or tackle shorter lengths of some of the country’s most iconic journeys, like the Appalachian Trail.

2. National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States, 3rd Edition

Do you want to plan a trip to one of America’s famous national parks? Let National Geographic’s third edition of Complete National Parks of the United States inspire you to visit more than 400 state parks, monuments, battlefields, historic sites, scenic trails, recreation areas and national seashores across the country.

This 544-page reference book is filled with full-color photos, detailed maps, historical information and practical facts on every single landmark in the national parks. You can use this guide to decide when you’ll start your adventure and find the best activities at each location.

3. National Parks Day Hikes

You don’t have to plan a long vacation to enjoy the outdoors. Day trips can be just as valuable and are often more accessible for busy would-be adventurers. Using National Geographic’s Day Hikes Topographic Maps, you can select from a diverse collection of day trails in the top national parks of the U.S.

Each booklet is designed so you can quickly and conveniently find the information needed for efficient and easy trail discovery and navigation, including difficulty rating, distance and elevation gain. Maps are waterproof and tear-resistant, so you can use them again and again for years to come.

4. National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

Former park ranger and author Jon Waterman takes readers on a journey through the country’s scenic reserves and highlights the extraordinary features of each location in National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks. This stunning atlas showcases America’s spectacular park system from coast to coast, richly illustrated with an inspiring and informative collection of maps, graphics and photographs.

In each entry, you’ll learn about the magnificent landmarks, thriving ecosystems, representative wildlife, fascinating histories and more in our beloved national parks. Take a look and start dreaming about experiencing the white sand beaches of Dry Tortugas or the snowy peaks of Denali for yourself.

5. National Geographic Complete Birds of North America, 3rd Edition

Birders will enjoy the third edition of National Geographic Complete Birds of North America, the most up-to-date and comprehensive source of knowledge on North American bird identification, distribution, behavior, habitat and conservation concerns available today. Birdwatchers can browse this 752-page guide, which includes every observable bird in the continental U.S. and Canada — over 1,000 species.

The book includes 850 range maps, accounts of each species’ calls and songs, breeding behaviors, molting patterns and more. Readers will also enjoy 4,000 pieces of annotated art to learn about and appreciate birds near and far.

Buy one or all five of these books and start exploring the national parks today. These educational and inspiring books from Disney Publishing Worldwide and National Geographic Books are available wherever books are sold.

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How today’s beef farmers and ranchers care for the land and focus on sustainability

2023-04-17T06:01:00

(BPT) – For families raising cattle, their livelihood depends on the land, and protecting the natural resources they rely on is key to sustaining both the land and the way of life. While sustainability is top of mind every April as Earth Day approaches, beef farmers and ranchers across the country have been dedicated to sustainability for decades, which is why the U.S. produces the most sustainable beef in the world[i].

While a dedication to caring for the land is common among beef producers, the practices they employ are different, developed and adapted over time to match the environment and land they depend on.

In honor of Earth Day, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, highlights three recent winners of the Environmental Stewardship Award, working to raise beef and care for the land in very different parts of the country.

The foundation: Soil health

For five generations, the Jorgensen family in Ideal, South Dakota, has depended on soil to help provide nutrients to their grazing cattle. “Soil health is a principal part of everything we do in our operation,” said Brian Jorgensen, chief agronomy operations officer at Jorgensen Land and Cattle. “So we have to do everything we can to sustain and build the health of that soil.”

Toward that aim, they practice rotational grazing, aided by modern technology: “We’ve been supplementing rotational grazing with a GPS grazing collar,” explained Nick Jorgensen, CEO. “That way, we can graze cattle where you can’t put in a fence. We can also graze spots of land on our property that we may have never used before.”

This innovative use of technology ensures no land is overgrazed — and every area is grazed by cattle that help break up the soil crust, encouraging seed-to-soil contact, stimulating plant growth and successfully converting fibrous plants into energy and protein.

“Sustainability has been an important part of our operation for decades,” added Nick. “It’s going to be what powers us into the future.”

Water is life

One mile north of the Horicorn Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, owners of Huth Polled Hereford and S&H Livestock Enterprises in Oakfield, Wisconsin, understand the importance of water.

“The Horicon Marsh is one of the largest marsh systems in the U.S.,” explained Jerry Huth, co-owner. “The challenge we face is containing the animals so their runoff doesn’t get into the streams that enter the marsh. We’re very sensitive about having grass buffer strips that absorb runoff from the fields or the cattle.”

They focus on limiting erosion as a crucial conservation effort. “One way to prevent phosphates going into your water source is to increase the forage density and limit erosion,” said Joshua Scharf, co-owner. “You’re also sequestering carbon while you’re doing that. Clean water benefits wildlife, cattle and humans.”

The company was one of the first to graze cattle on Wisconsin’s public lands, which helped manage vegetation. “When we first took cattle out there, it was woody vegetation over my head. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources was burning and spraying chemicals to control it, and they’ve not done that since we’ve had cattle out there,” continued Scharf. “After the first year, you could start seeing grasses pop through. There was a lot of clover and a lot of legumes, that are desirable for cattle and also for wildlife.”

Their efforts offer a great example of people working together with state and federal agencies to create beneficial land for livestock and wildlife alike.

Restoring the ecosystem

Out west, invasive species like pinion and juniper can soak up large amounts of ground water, impeding its flow. The Fulstone family, founders of Fulstone Ranches in Smith Valley, Nevada, have learned these lessons since their family’s arrival in the 1850s.

“We’ve done a lot of work removing pinion and juniper trees, which has improved the grass and the environment for cattle and for sage grouse,” said rancher Annette Fulstone.

Their work includes habitat restoration where erosion caused previously wet meadows to dry out. “The landscape came back from being a washed-out dry creek bed to this lush meadow,” added Emily Fulstone, Annette’s niece. “My dream for the future is to continue working on our regenerative practices to be more sustainable in every aspect.”

The Fulstone family aims to preserve the land for generations to come. “Our cattle are very beneficial to the land. We’re probably raising one of the best sources of protein you can in this environment,” said Steven Fulstone, Emily’s father and Annette’s brother. “It’s a renewable resource, and probably the best use of the land.”

To learn more about these and the other 2022 award winners visit EnvironmentalStewardship.org, or visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com to learn more about how cattle are raised across the country.


[i] UN FAO. 2021. FAOSTAT Database – Food and agricultural data. Available at: https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#home

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Bothered by cellulite? You’re not alone. The new way doctors are treating it

2023-04-14T15:15:00

(BPT) – At age 47, Jamie loves to exercise, running during the summer and going to the gym to work out during the winter. Between running and weightlifting, Jamie is active, strong and energetic enough to keep up with her four boys. Even with her active lifestyle, she has struggled with cellulite since her teenage years.

“I noticed cellulite back in high school, and I would wear leggings under my jeans to offset the dimples in my legs,” said Jamie. “I have dresses in my wardrobe that I’ve never worn, and shorts sitting in my closet. I just don’t have the confidence to wear them because of my cellulite.”

What Jamie didn’t know was that her cellulite has nothing to do with her lifestyle or habits, and up to 90% of women have it, though most women don’t like to talk about it. Many women don’t know exactly what it is, or what causes it, thinking it has something to do with diet and exercise — which are common misconceptions.

Jamie is just one of many women who are impacted by cellulite throughout their lives. For some women, cellulite can have a significant emotional impact, influencing decisions about the clothes they choose to wear, activities they choose to do and even how they perceive themselves. However, having cellulite shouldn’t stop you from wearing and doing what you want.

Cellulite is complicated

What exactly is cellulite? While the answer is complex, the good news is that cellulite does not result from something you did or didn’t do — and it’s not your fault if you have it. Cellulite is thought to be based more on genetics and hormones.

Research shows that a major underlying cause of cellulite dimples are septa — fibrous bands that tether the skin to the structures below. More recently, research was done that found the septa actually form a complicated, honeycomb-like structure that is much more complex than historically understood. Septa are different for each woman, and can also be different in various parts of the body. Some septa are good — and serve a purpose — but in certain parts of the body, it is believed they can stiffen and shrink over time, causing dimples on the buttocks or thighs that are commonly called cellulite.

Lasting results are possible

There are many different products and treatments claiming to fix cellulite, but many make promises to women they can’t deliver on, approaching cellulite blindly from the outside in.

Fortunately, a new, targeted approach with an FDA-cleared device called Avéli™ addresses cellulite from the inside out to deliver long-term reduction in the appearance of cellulite after a single treatment. Avéli is a device used by a trained provider during a minimally invasive procedure performed with local anesthesia in the treatment area. It’s the only procedure where the provider can identify the culprit septa under the skin, and then confirm in real time that they are releasing those targeted septa. Women see a long-term reduction in the appearance of cellulite dimples quickly after a single in-office procedure, with little to no downtime.

“Cellulite impacts almost all women across the globe and due to its complex structure, it has been historically tricky to treat,” said board-certified dermatologist Anna Paré, MD. “An in-office treatment I can do in about an hour, Avéli releases the fibrous bands causing dimples to improve the appearance of cellulite in the buttocks and thighs. Women can anticipate starting to see initial results in the days following the procedure.”

During recovery, you may experience bruising, soreness and tenderness within the first thirty days. Rest is recommended post-procedure, but typically you will be back to normal activities in just a day or two and can resume more strenuous workouts within a couple weeks.

Start the cellulite conversation

If you’re one of the many women bothered by cellulite, and especially if you’ve tried other treatments with lackluster results, rest assured there are new options now available that will end that skepticism.

“As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring, long-lasting cellulite reduction has been impossible to achieve, until now,” said Matthew Schulman, MD. “Avéli represents the missing piece for women looking to reduce the appearance of their cellulite dimples as a part of their lower body rejuvenation treatment plan — an increasing trend I’ve seen in my practice.”

Jamie chose Avéli to treat her cellulite, and she has been very satisfied with her results. “I’ve really noticed that I don’t have the dimples that I had before. I look in the mirror every day and am in awe,” she said. “For all the ladies out there that have suffered with cellulite for years and years like I have, this could be the procedure for you.”

It’s time to feel more comfortable talking about cellulite so you can take action like Jamie did. If it bothers you, bring it up with your medical aesthetics provider. For those looking to learn more, you can visit MyAveli.com or follow @aveli on Instagram to see real patient results. Hear more of Jamie’s story at https://youtu.be/rIva8r9DqSo.

Sources:

1 Emanuele E. Cellulite: advances in treatment: facts and controversies. Clin Dermatol. 2013;31(6):725-30.
2 Data on file. Revelle Aesthetics, Inc. 2021. Patient Quantitative Research Report, June 2021.
3 Stevens WG, Green JB, Layt C, et al. Multicenter Pivotal Study Demonstrates Safety and Efficacy of a New Cellulite Procedure: Final Results at 12 Months [published online ahead of print, 2022 Nov 10]. Aesthet Surg J. 2022;sjac291.
4 Stevens WG, Green JB, Layt C, et al. Multicenter Pivotal Study Demonstrates Safety and Efficacy of a New Cellulite Procedure: 3-Month Results [published online ahead of print, 2022 Jul 5]. Aesthet Surg J. 2022 Jul 5;sjac179. doi:10.1093/asj/sjac179.

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Excited about warmer weather? Be ready to open your pool with these tips

2023-04-14T05:01:00

(BPT) – When spring arrives, it’s time to start thinking about summer fun. If you have a swimming pool, and you closed it for the winter, it’s important to plan ahead so you’re ready to open it back up for the season. Do you have all the supplies you need? Do you know what to do to get the water in top condition? When temperatures are consistently above 65ºF and there’s no longer a risk of freezing weather, you can consider opening your pool.

Here’s how to open your pool correctly, with tips from In The Swim to help you every step of the way.

1. Remove your pool cover

A cover that’s bogged down with water and debris will be difficult to remove. Use a submersible cover pump to remove as much water as possible from the top of your solid cover. Then use a pool brush or leaf net to remove leaves and large debris. This will help keep the pool a little cleaner as you peel back the cover. After uncovering your pool, clean and dry your pool cover so you can store it for use next fall.

2. Prep your pool equipment

First, you’ll have to reconnect the pump and filter if you disconnected them at closing time. Then you can reattach any other equipment to your pool plumbing, such as a tablet feeder or saltwater chlorine generator. Don’t forget to reinstall all the drain plugs in your equipment.

3. Remove winterizing plugs and accessories from the skimmer and return lines

Now it’s time to take out any remaining winterizing accessories, like pool plugs or a skimmer guard. Remember to reinstall any return fittings you removed at closing time. If you used pool antifreeze for the suction lines when you closed the pool, be sure to discharge it to waste/backwash once you start up the pump, or use a wet-dry vacuum to remove it from the plumbing.

4. Add water to the pool

A normal operating level for pool water is usually about halfway up the mouth of the skimmer.

5. Run the pump

Prime the filter pump, then set it to run continuously until the pool opening process is complete. This helps circulate the water, filter out debris and distribute your pool chemicals. Doing this ensures that your pool is well on its way to being safe for swimming once again.

6. Manually clean the pool

To get your pool clean and sparkling before you take the plunge, skim, brush and vacuum the entire pool. This will also help your chlorine work most efficiently. Enlist your whole family to help with the cleanup!

7. Treat the water

Rather than gathering a bunch of pool opening products individually, investing in an In The Swim Pool Start-Up Kit can help the process go a lot more smoothly. Start-Up Kits include a stain and scale preventative, pool shock, algaecide, clarifier, test strips and an oil-absorbing sponge to help keep your pool clean.

  • Add your stain prevention product first, then wait at least 4 hours.
  • Test the water and balance total alkalinity (80–120 ppm) and pH (7.4–7.6).
  • Add your pool shock to get free chlorine levels up to at least 1–4 ppm.
  • The next day, add the correct dose of algaecide, and wait for at least 2–4 more hours.
  • Using clarifier will help your filter clear up the water faster. Let the pump run for at least 4 more hours after application.
  • If needed, vacuum the pool again.

Check the filter pressure often throughout the process, and clean or backwash the filter as needed during startup. Let your filter pump continue to run until the water is clear.

8. Set up your regular pool maintenance routine

Test the water as you normally would, and balance any aspects that are out of range. It’s important to make any final water balance adjustments before swimmers get to jump in and enjoy the pool.

9. BONUS: Swim sooner with warmer water

Whether or not you have a heater or heat pump, solar pool covers are great for keeping heat in the pool. They greatly reduce heat loss to evaporation, and can even increase water temps up to 15ºF on their own, depending on the thickness of the cover.

In The Swim has all the supplies you need for opening and maintaining your pool, including algaecide, chlorine shock, water balancers and more. Once your pool is up and running, don’t forget to pick out a few cool, new pool floats and backyard games to maximize your outdoor fun this season. For more tips on the right way to get your pool ready for a summer full of swimming, check out the In The Swim Blog.

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Planning the perfect above-ground pool deck

2023-04-13T08:05:00

(BPT) – You’ve finally decided to take the plunge and break ground on a new above-ground pool. Congratulations! Chances are, you’ll want to surround your latest backyard addition with a beautiful new deck. However, the process of designing and building a deck for an above-ground pool is quite different than a traditional deck that attaches to your home. So, before you cannonball into the deep end, consider the following tips from the experts at Decks.com:

1) Go Pro or DIY?

Your first decision is whether you want to build the pool deck yourself or hire a contractor. Consider your skill level, the amount of time you have available, and your budget. No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of helpful resources online, such as the Decks.com DIY Deck Building Guide.

Photo courtesy Trex

2) Crack the Codes

Be sure to review local building codes related to decks around pools. Slip resistance, gaps between deck boards, gapping between the deck and pool, and the slope of the deck may be regulated. Installing a self-closing gate with a lock on your pool deck may also be required to prevent access by unsupervised children.

Photo courtesy Trex

3) Pool First, Then Deck

First things first. It’s essential to install your pool before building the deck. While above-ground pools have standard wall heights, every pool will be slightly different. Don’t take a chance on building a deck that may not align with the new centerpiece of your backyard.

Photo courtesy Decks.com

4) Self-sufficient Support

Decks constructed around above-ground pools should not be attached to the pool. The structure should be freestanding and sufficiently stable on its own. Ideally, the deck should be built directly under the lip of the pool edge and laterally braced from the joists to the bottom of the posts. Check with your local municipality for approved lateral bracing.

Photo courtesy Decks.com

5) Protect Your Investment

Decks built around pools are especially susceptible to moisture, which contributes to mold growth and rotting. If you plan to build with wood, it is a good practice to install waterproofing tape, such as Trex® Protect™, over joists and beams to protect the decking substructure from standing water.

Photo courtesy Trex® Protect™

6) Factor in Fencing

Most jurisdictions mandate that any yard with a pool must also have a fence as a safety precaution. If you don’t already have a fence, be sure to earmark part of your budget to cover the construction or installation of one, and make sure your fence complies with local building codes.

Photo courtesy Decks.com

Having a gorgeous deck to accompany your new pool will elevate the look and functionality of your outdoor space while giving you plenty of room to make the most of your aquatic amenity. For more ideas, inspiration, and access to free pool deck plans, visit Decks.com.

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5 questions to ask your health care provider about virtual health

2023-04-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – Have you experienced a virtual health visit? We know that people enjoy the convenience and potential cost-savings of virtual health because it often eliminates the need to travel, find childcare and take time off work. However, there are challenges standing in the way of a seamless, consistent, high-quality and frictionless experience that’s accessible for all.

In Deloitte’s Center for Health Solutions report, “Tapping Virtual Health’s Full Potential”, findings showed that quality of internet service was associated with use of virtual health visits. Nearly half of people surveyed (46%) with very good/reliable internet service had a virtual visit in the last 12 months, compared with 31% of those with very poor/unreliable internet service. Although most people surveyed (81%) have broadband access, only half (52%) describe it as reliable and meeting their needs. Not surprisingly, 63% of those surveyed with an annual household income greater than $100,000 have reliable internet, compared with 46% of those making less than $50,000.

“Our research shows that access to reliable broadband service is key to people’s ability to try a virtual visit, and it also contributes to their satisfaction with the experience,” said Bill Fera, MD, principal and virtual health practice leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP. “Virtual health can complement in-person care, and it has the potential to reach patient populations that are underserved and under-resourced. If we empower people with the technology and information on how to best use virtual care options, and collaborate at the community level, virtual health can extend important services, like mental health, in ways that meet people where they are and feel most comfortable.”

When Deloitte surveyed physicians about virtual health’s effect on access to care for underserved groups, more physicians said virtual health has increased access (39%) than decreased (7%), while 12% said it had no effect and 25% said the effects were mixed. While these findings are encouraging, to help ensure that virtual health isn’t creating a digital divide, health care organizations should consider collaborating with local governments, utility providers and businesses in their communities (such as shopping centers, schools, shelters, libraries and pharmacies) to provide free Wi-Fi and digital devices that can be used to enable virtual health services.

For people interested in virtual health, here are five questions to ask your health care provider:

  1. Do you offer virtual visits and how can I schedule one with my physician?
  2. Do you have services available to help me learn how to use a portal or how to interact with my physician in a virtual setting so that I can feel comfortable?
  3. What do I need to do to prepare for a virtual health visit?
  4. Can a caregiver join my virtual health visit?
  5. If my insurance doesn’t cover a virtual visit, how much will it cost me out of pocket?

While virtual health is not a substitute for how care has traditionally been delivered, it can offer new ways of receiving care that were not possible in the past. When done well, virtual health has the potential to provide care to more people in a convenient, comfortable setting that can potentially save costs, be a component of the continuum of care, reduce stigma and improve health.

To learn more about the survey findings, read Deloitte’s report titled, “Tapping Virtual Health’s Full Potential.”

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4 tips to choose an eco-friendly wine for Earth Month

2023-04-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – April signals the arrival of spring and welcomes the beginning of Earth Month, a time when many people may be searching for simple but impactful ways to live more sustainably. But, living more consciously doesn’t mean steering away from life’s little luxuries, like enjoying a glass of great wine. In fact, the wine industry is becoming a fast-growing change-maker in sustainable agriculture.

“As farmers, we can be part of the problem or part of the solution around climate change,” says Joseph Brinkley, director of regenerative farming for Bonterra Organic Estates, the country’s largest Regenerative Organic Certified winery. “It’s important that our industry finds ways to mitigate the climate crisis and cultivate a better future for our planet.”

So, when it comes to wine, how do you know what is actually making a difference and what is simply a clever, but unsubstantiated, claim? Here are four straightforward tips to choose a wine that is actually eco-friendly and will make you feel proud to purchase in April and beyond.

1. Know your labels

The most popular certification that many notice is the USDA Organic Seal, which indicates that 95% or more of the ingredients are certified organic with no GMOs. However, there is a new certification, Regenerative Organic Certified. This distinction goes beyond the traditional organic standards by emphasizing the regeneration of soil health, animal welfare and social fairness.

“Certifications are critical to maintaining the integrity of any environmental claim, since each certification a winery obtains requires the company to follow stringent guidelines,” says Brinkley. “Otherwise, anyone can claim anything on a label, but it’s the vetted certification process that proves the company is actually making a difference and holding itself accountable.”

2. Find diamonds in the rough

Napa and Sonoma have long been regarded as the wine-growing epicenters, but it also means that land and soil has been turned over and processed significantly over the last several decades. Explore wines from lesser-known locations such as Mendocino County, California, and Texas Hill Country.

3. Trust the experts

Experience and purpose is everything, and that’s why consumers should look for wine that has been in the sustainability space since their first bottle.

“Creating a product that’s sustainably focused should be more than just a trend,” says Brinkley. “As grape-growers and winemakers, we have a responsibility to forge a path to a better future through the way we grow and produce. At Bonterra, we have been producing organic wine for more than 30 years and still remain the No. 1 organic winery in the country today.”

4. Taste the difference

It’s not always about sensing the notes of strawberry or aged oak or tannins, but taste should be about individual preferences and enjoyment. There’s no right way to enjoy a glass of wine. Instead, wine that is produced organically, intentionally and sustainably should have a taste that keeps you coming back for more simply because you like it.