Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-03-12T15:33:00

(BPT) – If you want to do right by the planet and help make a difference, you can choose brands that align with your values — whether it’s sustainability, waste reduction, social responsibility, or all of the above. Every purchase is a chance to support what matters to you.

Before you buy, take the time to do a little research on companies you shop from, so your purchasing decisions reflect who you are and what you care about most. Look for brands that demonstrate a concerted effort to help the planet.

A commitment to the planet

One company that has taken positive steps toward a more sustainable future is Tom’s of Maine. Along with their natural oral care and personal care products, including their well-known toothpaste, mouthwash, soaps, and deodorant, the brand champions doing right by the planet.

“A thriving planet is essential for everyone,” said Cristiane Martini, Vice President and General Manager of Tom’s of Maine and North America Sustainability. “That’s why we’ve committed to responsible ingredient sourcing, reducing waste, and alternative packaging options. Every choice we make considers the long-term health of the environment.”

Here are some of the ways Tom’s of Maine is taking action:

Reducing emissions and waste

Tom’s of Maine has a goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, and has already procured 100% renewable electricity at their Sanford Manufacturing Plant. The company achieved TRUE^® certification for zero waste at their Sanford plant in 2024, which means 90% of their solid, non-hazardous waste is diverted from landfills, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment.

Plastic circularity

Imagine if your personal care products were made from last week’s yogurt cup? Well, Tom’s of Maine has made that a reality. While traditional deodorant packaging is made of virgin plastic, Tom’s of Maine redesigned the product to create a barrel made from 100% recycled material.

Tom’s of Maine is also working to reduce waste and make personal care products easier to recycle. In 2019, the company launched the first-of-its-kind recyclable toothpaste tube, designed to help keep tubes out of landfills and give them a second life. The company joined forces with Repurpose Global and The Recycling Partnership to expand access to recycling in communities that currently lack the necessary infrastructure.

“We’re working toward a more circular future where the plastic we put into the market is recycled,” said Michelle Waring, Steward for Sustainability and Everyday Good at Tom’s of Maine. “And we hope our actions will challenge others in the industry to advance their sustainability goals too.”

Tom’s of Maine’s sustainability goals

The company’s environmental goals are ambitious, reflecting their desire to effect real change.

• By 2025: Create alternative solutions in each product category that lead to plastic reductions, and support recycling collection efforts leading to recycling of an equivalent amount of plastic that they put into the market.

• By 2030: Use 100% sustainably sourced material including recycled content, certified sustainable fiber or biobased plastic.

• By 2040: Achieve net zero GHG emissions.

“We believe everyday actions create a positive impact for people and the planet,” said Waring. “That’s why we continue striving toward these sustainability goals and thoughtfully design all our products to be natural, and effective.”

What B Corp certification means

One thing to look for when seeking more environmentally responsible brands to shop from is whether they are B Corp certified, a distinction Tom’s of Maine has upheld since 2019. To achieve B Corp certification, a company undergoes a review of its social and environmental impact to meet standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. This continued commitment demonstrates the philosophy and driving force behind the people and products at Tom’s of Maine.

“This certification reinforces our commitment to making business decisions that benefit everyone — from our consumers and employees to the communities we serve and the planet we all share,” said Rob Robinson, Director of Brand Impact at Tom’s of Maine.

What you can do

Making the world a better place starts with small, intentional choices — like choosing products with recyclable packaging and supporting brands that share your values. By consciously shopping from companies that prioritize the planet, you can help drive change. And with brands like Tom’s of Maine, you can be confident you’re choosing natural products that work.

Tom’s of Maine lives this commitment by reinvesting 10% of its annual profits into nonprofit organizations that are doing good in their community. For example, one of the brand’s programs is “Get into Nature,” a partnership with the National Recreation Foundation (NRF) that works to create more equitable access to outdoor recreation and foster deeper connections with nature across the United States. The program has supported over 80 local organizations, and the next cohort for the “Get into Nature” program will be announced in April 2025.

With Tom’s of Maine, every purchase contributes to actively supporting organizations working toward a healthier planet.

To learn more about Tom’s of Maine’s sustainability efforts, read the Tom’s of Maine Goodness Report, or visit TomsOfMaine.com.

2025-03-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – Today’s consumers are continuously seeking out elevated dining experiences, leading many fast-casual restaurants to look for new and innovative ways to bring guests through their doors. For Noodles & Company, this means the biggest menu transformation in its 30-year history, reimagining two-thirds of its menu to ensure every dish is designed to ignite guests’ taste buds with bolder flavors, more craveable sauces, and thoughtfully chosen ingredients.

No Noodle Left Unturned

After 18 months of passion, perseverance, and relentless testing and innovation, Noodles & Company’s refreshed menu delivers a more satisfying, tastefully curated experience while offering variety for every palate. From perfectly matched noodle shapes that maximize sauce coverage to layered flavors featuring premium ingredients like roasted cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and pickled red onions, every dish is thoughtfully crafted. Whether guests crave comfort, spice, or global variety, the new menu ensures a flavorful option for everyone.

New items on the menu include:

• Buffalo Chicken Ranch Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce with parmesan-crusted chicken, topped with Buffalo sauce, green onions, crispy onions and a drizzle of ranch.
• Garlic Bacon Crunch Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in a creamy garlic cheddar sauce with bacon and white cheddar, topped with crispy onions, parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
• Pulled Pork BBQ Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce with smoky pulled pork, topped with tangy BBQ sauce, green onions and crispy onions.
• Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine: Fettuccine noodles in Cajun-spiced alfredo sauce with shrimp, bacon and roasted red peppers, topped with parmesan and green onions.
• Green Goddess Cobb Salad: Mixed greens, grilled chicken, bacon, hard-boiled egg, avocado, feta, grape tomatoes, Persian cucumber, pickled red onions, garlic croutons and green goddess ranch dressing.
• Lemon Parmesan Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets topped with salted butter, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, and lemon.

Fan Favorites, Reimagined

The refreshed menu also brings an exciting new take on current guest favorites — now richer, saucier, and with more vegetables and elevated finishes than ever:

• Creamy Cheddar Mac & Cheese: Noodles & Company’s most beloved dish — formerly known as Wisconsin Mac & Cheese — is now even better. Cheesier and creamier than ever, this fan-favorite features elbow noodles smothered in a creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce, then topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Rigatoni Rosa: Formerly known as Penne Rosa, this elevated dish now has more of the spicy tomato cream sauce guests love, slow-roasted tomatoes, 18-month aged Parmesan, and hearty rigatoni noodles that soak up every velvety bite of its delicious sauce.
• Basil Pesto Cavatappi: A fan-favorite made even better, now with more of its signature basil pesto sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, and aged Parmesan for a deeper, more indulgent flavor in every forkful.
• Chicken Caesar Salad: A fresh take on a timeless classic, featuring crisp romaine, grilled chicken, new buttery herb croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing, all finished with an irresistible combination of grated and shaved Parmesan for added depth and texture.

Staying true to its commitment to freshness, Noodles & Company continues to hand-chop vegetables and prepare noodles in-house daily — never relying on freezers. To enhance both the flavor of each dish and the appeal when it’s served, each dish is finished with premium touches and every bowl is made exactly to order.

Noodles & Company even encourages guests to step outside their comfort zones and try something new, backed by its Goodness Guarantee. This commitment guarantees satisfaction by offering guests free exchanges for any entrée that guests don’t love.

For more exclusive offers, guests can also join Noodles Rewards for free through the Noodles & Company mobile app or website. Members earn points on every order, which are redeemable for craveable favorites. And now through the end of March, everyone can score double points on the new menu!

Run, Don’t Walk, To Noodles & Company!

Whether you’re craving a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or eager to discover a new favorite, the latest menu has something for everyone. Now available at all locations nationwide, guests can enjoy these delicious new offerings by dining in, ordering through the mobile app, or opting for convenient third-party delivery.

2025-03-11T09:31:00

(BPT) – With warmer temps comes the return to grilling, one of America’s most beloved pastimes. Given all the options available today — from equipment, fuel and methods to what you can grill (answer: pretty much everything) — your choices may seem overwhelming. But one fundamental question is paramount: Should you opt for a charcoal grill?

Whether you’re new to grilling or looking to upgrade this year, you’ll want to know why so many grillmasters prefer charcoal. If you’re looking for real BBQ flavor, there’s one fuel source that pitmasters, backyard pros, and competition teams choose: charcoal. Pellet grills may have the reputation of being easy to use, but they can’t match the depth of smoke, searing power, or versatility of charcoal cooking. And with today’s technology, charcoal grilling is just as easy — if not easier — than pellets.

To help you better understand the ins and outs of charcoal grilling, one of Masterbuilt’s chef partners and star of the Netflix series “American BBQ Showdown,” Rasheed Philips, answers questions you may have about charcoal grilling, and about his experiences.

What first drew you to charcoal grilling?

The aromas. They remind me of grilling and cooking with my grandfather. Cooking with coals just imparts such a deeper level of flavor than using something like propane or pellets. It also provides a much higher BTU (British thermal unit) output, making it perfect for grilling.

How does the flavor differ between wood pellet and charcoal grilling?

Pellets are compressed sawdust particles. Though it is technically wood, it loses so much of the flavor and cooking attributes that are found in cooking with an actual piece of wood.

What kinds of dishes does charcoal grilling excel at?

Everything. It may seem like the easy answer, yet it is true: Roasted/charred veggies, grilled chicken. There’s nothing like a steak grilled over coals with the fat rendering, hitting the coals and releasing smoke elements back into the meat … And no one has ever said, “Hmm, love that propane/pellet taste.”

When it comes to temperature control, is charcoal or pellet preferred, and why?

I prefer charcoal for several reasons, including the level of consistent burn and heat output. Charcoal also adds a true char and smoke flavor, whether it be briquettes or lump charcoal.

Besides flavor and temperature control, are there other benefits of one fuel source over the other?

The honest answer is rather simple: Damp or wet coal can still be lit and cooked with. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a pellet get the slightest bit of moisture, but it immediately turns to sawdust.

Many people think charcoal is more complicated. What do you say to someone hesitant to make the switch?

Most things seem complicated or intimidating until you try them. It’s like riding a bike; once you do it you never forget it, and it’s never as scary after the first time. Charcoal allows you to impart amazing flavors, while giving you a consistent and even cooking experience.

Do you have tips for someone transitioning from a pellet grill to charcoal?

1. You don’t need nearly as much coal for a cook as you do pellets. Most cooks can be done with one-half to one full chimney of charcoal.

2. Experiment with flavors. Try adding fresh herbs to your bed of coals toward the end of the cook for additional flavor. Adding wood chunks also helps add additional depth of flavor.

3. Safety first: Make sure to have proper heat/fire handling equipment.

4. Lastly, have fun. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, not one that you stress over.

Getting started with charcoal

Don’t settle for a shortcut — have the real backyard BBQ experience with charcoal grilling. If you’re ready to experience the enhanced flavor and temperature control with a charcoal grill, check out the Masterbuilt Gravity Series. Here are some benefits you’ll enjoy using a product like the new Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker:

• Better temperature control — You’ll be able to get higher temps with your charcoal grill for a better sear, which is key to maximizing flavor. You can’t sear with pellets, as they don’t get hot enough. The Gravity Series grills get to your desired cook temp quickly — up to 225F in nine minutes, and 700F in fifteen minutes. Charcoal also allows for better low-and-slow cooking for longer smoking.
• Better flavor — And you can enhance that further by adding your choice of herbs and/or wood chunks.
• Better overall experience — The open flame is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but you’ll also be able to gauge the cooking process more accurately, to see and understand how your food is cooking.
• Easy to use — The latest grilling technology improves your experience and control you’ll have while cooking. Push a button, set your temp, and let the grill do the work — just like a pellet smoker, but with better results.

Thinking about buying a pellet grill? Don’t settle. Get bold, smoky flavor, real fire cooking, and easy digital control — all with charcoal. Upgrade to the Masterbuilt Gravity Series today. Learn more about your grilling options, find amazing recipes and where to locate Masterbuilt Gravity Series grills, smokers and useful accessories near you at Masterbuilt.com.

2025-03-10T10:25:00

(BPT) – Are you eager to stay on top of cutting-edge home design and construction trends? This year, Las Vegas hosted the International Builders’ Show (IBS), attracting an array of the best construction and design professionals in the world. This makes it the ideal event for exploring the latest innovations to inspire your next home renovation.

This year’s show did not disappoint, revealing remarkable trends in technology and energy efficiency from more than 1,800 exhibitors, making this the largest show in 17 years. Electrical, lighting and networking leader Leviton showcased an impressive portfolio of wiring devices, in-home connectivity solutions and smart home upgrades designed to support the future of residential building.

Here’s a highlight of standout trends and innovative products from brands like Leviton during this year’s event.

Going all in on electrification

The trend toward electrification is being driven by consumer interests and concerns including cost savings, energy efficiency and a desire for more environmentally friendly energy solutions. This movement is evident in the increasing adoption of smart home devices and networks, electric appliances and EV chargers.

In today’s residential market, electrification is all about efficient, safe and future-proof solutions. As builders and homeowners use more electricity to power things like larger appliances and vehicles in an aim to decarbonize their homes, considerations for increased amperage and smart energy management is required.

To meet the escalating electricity demands of homeowners, cutting-edge products have been developed to enhance standard circuit breakers and electrical panels. Leviton has responded to the call for home electrification with groundbreaking innovations including advanced load centers, smart devices, EV chargers, modular solutions and more.

For example, the modular design of the Leviton Load Center allows homeowners to customize their energy management system with 2nd Generation Smart Circuit Breakers that enable remote monitoring and control of specific circuits and appliances. With this design, upgrading an existing Leviton Load Center to a Smart Load Center is as easy as removing standard circuit breakers out of the panel, snapping the Smart Circuit Breakers in their place and installing Leviton’s Whole Home Energy Monitor. This allows homeowners to remotely control breakers while also monitoring their home’s output and energy use. The plug-on breaker design offers homeowners a panel with both traditional and smart breakers depending on their preference. Smart breakers can be used for intentional monitoring and management of high-draw devices like pool pumps, AC compressors and water heaters, while also using traditional breakers for other energy needs.

Smart homes getting even smarter

According to Realty Executives, the continuing embrace of smart home technology is due to factors including recent AI advances, the quest for energy efficiency and the allure of increasingly customizable control features.

Homeowners can achieve enhanced control by opting for comprehensive smart home devices. For example, integrating Leviton’s Decora Smart switches and dimmers can help homeowners remotely control and schedule their lighting through the My Leviton App. With smart lighting devices, homeowners can create more energy-efficient light schedules and settings whether based on natural light or ensuring lights are switched off when not in use. For those with electric vehicles, smart chargers are also an option to optimize energy-efficient charging. With Leviton’s EV Series Smart Home Charger, homeowners can start and stop sessions, as well as plan charging around off-peak utility hours to lessen the strain on the grid and their wallet.

Electrical upgrades made easy

With the construction industry facing challenges due to labor shortages, the demand for products that streamline processes and simplify installations has never been more critical. Leviton offers a range of products designed to make upgrades effortless for both builders and homeowners.

For example, Decora Evolve is Leviton’s modular switch and outlet system that offers a unique solution for new home builds, giving builders the efficiency of a spec build while providing homebuyers the satisfaction of customization. Builders simply install the Decora Evolve base modules throughout the home, allowing homeowners to personalize each module in seconds with the type of lighting control or outlet that suits their specific needs, all without having to turn off the electricity or use a screwdriver. Eight interchangeable modules are available: standard outlet, dimmer, smart switch, smart dimmer, motion sensor, timer, night light and USB charger. Best yet, you can securely schedule and control all your lighting from the My Leviton app, making it simple and free to connect all your smart switches and dimmers.

Lever Edge is another Leviton technology revolutionizing how electricians install common residential switches and outlets, making installation time even faster and easier. Leviton’s award-winning Lever Edge wiring devices offer a unique patented design simplifying installation through three quick and safe steps: push the wire into the corresponding terminal, click down the lever and terminate with confidence. The Lever Edge line was recently expanded with four new residential devices, including a 15A Tamper-Resistant GFCI, a 15A Weather/Tamper-Resistant GFCI, a Dimmer and a 20A Tamper-Resistant Duplex Outlet.

Good for business and your monthly budget

Considering escalating living costs and environmental concerns as well as evolving technology, homeowners want to be better prepared for the long term while also seeking systems that enhance their lifestyle — with the expectation that the solutions they choose are safe and efficient.

“Leviton stands at the forefront of this shift toward sustainability, offering innovative products that cater to the evolving needs of environmentally conscious consumers,” said Justin Berghoff, Leviton vice president and general manager, Residential. “As a leader in electrical innovation, we continuously strive to bring products to market that make today’s home electrical system options attractive to contractors, builders and their customers. It’s our goal to exceed customer expectations for safer, smarter and more convenient electrical solutions that help drive efficiency and cost savings.”

Discover the latest innovative products showcased at IBS to elevate your home at Leviton.com/builders.

2025-03-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – As winter begins to dissipate, students and families are eagerly preparing not just to make the most of sunny weather and spring holidays, but for saving hacks so they aren’t returning home with a big travel debt in addition to souvenirs.

“People are prioritizing quality, unique travel experiences this spring break,” said travel expert and award-winning travel journalist Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon. “But there are plenty of ways to save money when traveling. AARP members can take advantage of their benefits to plan, save, and enjoy their spring break.”

Planning a premium vacation doesn’t mean you have to pay premium prices. With an AARP membership you can check off all your vacation “musts” and save while doing so.

Flights, Hotels, Transportation, Oh My! To help take the sting out of planning a vacation during a peak period like spring break, head to the perfect one-stop shop — AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia — to create a seamless itinerary. Members save up to 10% on select hotels, 30% off car rentals and receive a $50 gift card with any flight package. Plus, for a limited time, you can refresh your travel plans this spring and save 15% or more on select stays and get a $50 gift card when you book any flight package through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. Book by March 31, 2025.

Whether your travel plans take you near or far, an AARP membership gives you access to a variety of benefits and discounts at hotels worldwide. AARP members save 10% at Choice Hotels. When staying at Sleep Inn hotels, guests can scan a QR code to access curated nearby trails from AllTrails and explore over 750,000 miles of hiking, biking, and running routes. Plus, they’ll enjoy a free month of AllTrails+ with offline maps, trail previews, and more. Or, in addition to saving 10% off rooms at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, wellness-minded members can take advantage of spa deals and packages at over 80 properties, including Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Florida, and Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Tucson, Arizona. After a full day of sightseeing, choose from blissful treatments like massages, facials, body wraps, and salon services.

Ready for Take Off. Now that all your travel plans are coming together, don’t let an expired passport get in the way of your picture-perfect getaway. AARP members and their families can save 15% on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services with RushMyPassport, which offers rush options for all passport types. RushMyPassport also offers customer support to simplify the process of obtaining travel documents.

All-American Road Trip. If you prefer driving to flying for spring break, save up to 30% off base rates or 35% with the Pay Now option when renting a vehicle from Budget. AARP members also receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, you can get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability) and add an additional driver at no cost. Now, AARP members can unlock exclusive rates starting at just $54/day on spacious SUVs and powerful pickup trucks. Choose from intermediate, standard, or elite SUVs — or go bold with a midsize or full-size pickup truck. This special offer won’t last long, so don’t wait.

Break up a long drive by enjoying diner classics or all-day breakfast goodies at Denny’s — AARP members save 15% on their checks, maximum discount cannot exceed $10. To redeem this offer, present your AARP membership card with your check, or mention your membership number over the phone for pick-up orders.

Another thing to keep in mind on the road is that you can’t predict everything. AARP member benefits can help you prepare for speed bumps along the way with Allstate Roadside Assistance. Members save up to 20% on annual membership fees for Allstate Roadside plans, including Roadside Assist and Roadside Elite. Upon enrollment, you’ll have access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.

Open Line of Communication. Having a reliable phone line while traveling helps you stay connected with family and friends back home, access crucial information like maps and directions, handle emergencies, and generally navigate your way around a new location with ease. AARP members can save $10 per line, per month, on the AT&T Unlimited Premium^® PL plan, plus receive up to $50 in waived activation and upgrade fees. Present your AARP membership card in-store or enter your membership number when shopping on the AT&T website. And now is the time to switch. For a limited time, AARP members get $100 in credits per line when you switch to AT&T. Offer ends 3/31/25.

Book your bucket-list spring break vacation without worry using your AARP membership. To learn more about additional discounts for AARP members, by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.

2025-03-10T09:31:00

(BPT) – New research from Empower explores how Americans are seeing the “AI Advantage” with nearly half of Americans (47%) feeling more comfortable using the tool in their financial lives compared to a year ago.

Some 56% of people say they would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, provide tips to consolidate debt (58%), and help with budgeting (54%).

Importantly, 62% of Americans value the human component of financial advice, especially for significant financial decisions like investing. Many Americans see AI as a powerful tool to complement human expertise in financial decision-making: 61% say they would use AI alongside human financial advisors to achieve better results.

AI at work

AI is becoming a regular part of the modern workplace, with 58% of Americans currently using AI tools in some capacity while on the job. Among these users, 60% rely on AI mainly for writing and other content-generation tasks. While AI adoption is growing, more than a third (34%) say they do not use AI at work. Others are uncertain about their company’s policy on AI usage at the office (38%).

AI is indispensable for some — 28% of Americans, including 29% of Millennials and 27% of Gen Z, can’t imagine working without these tools. But there is hesitation around adoption: Only 15% of Americans have received AI-specific training at work, and 14% avoid AI altogether due to fears it may one day replace their job.

Gen Z employees are leveraging AI to support their professional growth and workplace readiness: Over half of them (52%) use AI tools to build or edit their resumes, streamlining the job application process. Nearly half of Gen Zers (47%) use AI to prepare for important presentations, while 43% rely on it to practice for job interviews.

Methodology

The Empower “AI Advantage” study is based on online survey responses from 1,009 Americans ages 18+ fielded in December 2024.

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2025-03-06T11:01:00

(BPT) – Are you geared up for the mayhem and excitement March basketball games bring? Whether you’re planning to host epic watch parties at home, manage your office pool or passionately cheer on your alma mater, having the right tools at your disposal can be a game-changer.

When printers drop the ball

Face it, everyone’s been there — right when you need to print your bracket, your printer throws a technical foul — failing to cooperate in the middle of a crucial printing session or simply running out of ink just when you need it most.

The ultimate assist

Just like a seasoned point guard delivering a perfect assist, HP has got your back. Whatever your printing needs, HP’s All-In Plan eliminates hassles that can sometimes come with printer ownership — and best yet, it ensures you never run out of ink again.

With multiple plans starting at just $6.99 per month, customers can decide what works best for them, including choice of a new printer, automatic ink delivery, a dedicated 24/7 live support team, next-business-day replacement in the event of printer issues, and the option to upgrade your printer after two years.

Brackets and beyond

With the All-In Plan, you can effortlessly print brackets for your crew and keep printing long after the tournament, whether it be for work, photos, taxes and more. Just go to your favorite source for basketball bracket forms when you want to print them out and you’ll be ready for tip-off.

How useful is this new plan? During its pilot program, over a third of customers chose the monthly plan compared to a traditional printer purchase, and 90% of customers stuck with it after two years.

Stay game-ready

Be prepared for every print job, from game day to every day. Learn more at HP.com/all-in-plan-printers.

2025-03-06T10:01:00

(BPT) – A new study conducted for Amazon Kindle reveals a quarter of Americans use devices with notifications until the minute they go to sleep. Neuroscientist Dr. Mark Williams shares his tips for protecting your bedtime routine.

From the moment we wake up in the morning, to the moment our head finally hits the pillow, we’re bombarded by device notifications that demand our attention — leading to 87% of Americans feeling stressed in the evening, according to a new study* conducted on behalf of Amazon Kindle.

The research revealed that, throughout their day, nearly nine out of ten (88%) Americans check their devices for new notifications, with some reporting they check up to 55 times in an hour. Over half (60%) of participants reported feeling frequently distracted by notifications, and a quarter said they receive alerts until the moment they go to sleep.

“When we hear a notification sound or feel our phone vibrate, our brain interprets it as something that requires our immediate focus, so we’re in a constant state of alertness,” neuroscientist Dr. Mark Williams explains. “Each time our attention is diverted by a notification it takes 60-90 seconds to refocus back on the task that we were originally doing. These disruptions are seizing our time, resulting in decreased efficiency.”

Dr. Williams recommends “at least one hour of notification-free time before bed to allow our minds to relax and prepare for sleep.” With Americans falling asleep around 10:45 p.m. on average, the ideal time to “unplug” is about 9:45 p.m.

Here are Dr. Williams’ top tips for “protecting our final hour” at the end of the day:

1. At least one hour before you go to sleep, turn off laptops, tablets, computers. Put your phone in sleep mode and place devices out of sight.
2. Consider spending the last hour before bed reading on a Kindle. It doesn’t beep or buzz, allows you to adjust the display brightness, and offers access to a vast selection of books to suit your mood and help you de-stress.
3. Limit devices with the ability to send notifications in your bedroom. If you use your phone as an alarm clock, consider replacing it with a digital alarm clock or an Echo Spot. Keep your sleeping space dark, cool, and quiet without distractions.
4. One way to start winding down is to make notes in a journal, notepad, or even a Kindle Scribe. Write down what you did that day, what went well, what could have gone better, what you might do differently next time, and what you would like to achieve tomorrow. This practice will help you slow your mind and begin the reset process.

*The research was conducted by Censuswide, an independent market research company, with 2,000 adults in the U.S. between February 14 and 25, 2025.

2025-03-05T10:01:01

(BPT) – If you’ve had hives, you know how challenging they can be. But you may not know that there is more than one type of hives, or urticaria, and that treatments are available. A brief episode of hives is a nuisance, but when symptoms persist for weeks, months or years, it can take a physical and psychological toll.

What is urticaria?

Urticaria is a rash causing round, swollen areas on the skin. It can be tender, itchy and/or painful. People with light skin may see red, raised bumps or welts. In people of color, hives may match the color of surrounding skin or appear slightly lighter or darker. They may appear all over your body or in one area.

Urticaria occurs when chemical compounds involved in the body’s inflammatory and immune responses are released. One of these chemicals is histamine, which is released by mast cells and basophils. When this release happens in the skin’s outer layers, it results in hives.

Most hives resolve quickly, but they can become chronic. Acute urticaria refers to hives lasting one day to six weeks. Chronic urticaria means the hives have lasted for six weeks or longer. For many people, the cause is unknown.

Chronic urticaria is a rare condition that occurs in only 23 out of 10,000 people, though the actual number may be higher, since many people do not report or recognize the symptoms. Chronic urticaria is most common in adults aged 40-59. More women than men are affected, and more Black Americans and other ethnic groups are affected. There are two types:

• Chronic idiopathic urticaria (also called chronic spontaneous urticaria) is not triggered by external factors. In many cases, the cause could be an autoimmune condition, another systemic disease like cancer, or unknown.
• Chronic inducible urticaria is caused by certain environmental and physical factors.

Identifying urticaria triggers

Common triggers include:

• Allergens, including certain foods
• Exposure to heat/cold
• Tight clothing
• Insect stings and bites
• Infections and viruses
• Medications such as antibiotics and NSAIDs
• Diseases including asthma, celiac disease, diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, vasculitis and vitiligo
• Stress

Diagnosis and treatment

The cause of your chronic urticaria may be hard to identify. It’s best to see a specialist such as a board-certified allergist or dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Your doctor may perform allergy tests, lab tests or a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions that involve or resemble hives. You can help by keeping a diary that tracks your symptoms.

Chronic urticaria eventually goes away by itself. Management focuses on the most appropriate treatment to control symptoms, usually starting with the first line of treatment: a long-lasting antihistamine.

Antihistamines block production of histamine to reduce or eliminate hives and ease itch and swelling. Ask your doctor for a non-sedating antihistamine.

Topical itch creams may provide mild relief for hives that do not cover the entire body.

Corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation, irritation and itching. By reducing inflammation, they also promote healing. For a severe hives flare-up, a short course of oral corticosteroids (prednisone) can help reduce inflammation and itching. These medications can cause serious side effects, especially if taken long-term. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking oral corticosteroids.

Advanced treatments

It’s important to work closely with your doctor if your hives don’t respond to treatment. If antihistamines alone do not help, your doctor may recommend combining them with other medications, including leukotriene modifiers or H2 blockers. New advanced treatments are available, and more are in clinical trials or undergoing FDA review.

Biologics: Omalizumab is a biologic medication used to treat chronic urticaria when antihistamines haven’t worked. Two more biologics are in development as chronic urticaria treatments: dupilumab is in FDA review and briquilimab is in clinical trials. Biologics work by targeting cells and interrupting the inflammatory process. This stops or reduces symptoms. Biologics are injectable medications typically given once per month.

Cyclosporine: This is an oral medication that calms the immune system to prevent hives from occurring. It can be taken along with antihistamines. Since cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive, it can decrease the body’s ability to fight infections. Talk with your doctor about side effects and the benefits vs. risks of taking this medication.

Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor: Remibrutinib is an oral medication in clinical trials. It works by blocking the activation of mast cells and basophils. These cells release histamine and other inflammatory mediators that cause hives, swelling and itching. By blocking this process, remibrutinib can reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Hives and mental health

It’s important not to blame yourself for your hives. If you’re feeling anxiety, depression or embarrassment about your skin condition, talk with your healthcare provider or a mental health specialist. Support groups for people with urticaria also let you share experiences and know you are not alone.

Don’t let chronic urticaria impact your quality of life. Talk to your doctor. Check out the Chronic Urticaria Toolkit at ChronicHives.info.

2025-03-05T07:01:00

(BPT) – While there’s never been more types and brands of supplements available, knowing which are most important and how to select high-quality options can be confusing. In fact, a recent survey by Life Time, the national health and wellness company, shows that 71% of adults are overwhelmed by the variety of supplement choices.

No matter your health and wellness goals, there are key staples and newer products that can help you achieve them. Paul Kriegler, Life Time’s Senior Director of Nutritional Products, offers four essential supplements to add to your routine and why they matter:

1. Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth, protein helps maintain a healthy metabolism and supports overall body function*. Life Time offers delicious shake recipes on its free Life Time app.
2. Colostrum: Rich in antibodies and bioactive compounds, colostrum can help support the immune system and promote gut and skin health*. Look for a product without artificial flavors or sweeteners.
3. Fish Oil: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil may support heart health and brain function*. Look for fish oil that is sustainably sourced and contains EPA and DHA, the most active forms of omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Electrolytes: Crucial for hydration, electrolytes help maintain fluid balance, muscle function, and energy levels. Products made with trace minerals can provide comprehensive electrolyte support.

If you’ve made the decision to add supplements to your routine, it’s important to recognize that all are not created equal. To help you cut through the noise, Kriegler suggests these tips to identify high-quality products:

1. Seek credible experts you know — not random influencers: Influencers are rarely experts on the supplements they share and certainly aren’t familiar with your unique circumstances. Instead, turn to qualified and certified health professionals you trust for reliable information.
2. Check for third-party validation: Look for products with NSF or USP labels to ensure the supplements have been independently tested and verified.
3. Make sure they’re absorbable: Some manufacturers use cheaper or lower-quality ingredients that aren’t easily absorbed by the body.
4. Avoid artificial ingredients: Artificial flavors, colors and sweeteners can mask the taste and texture of low-quality ingredients. Life Time’s LTH supplements are made with natural flavors, colors and sweeteners, and are GMO-free, so you know you’re getting the nutrition you need — and nothing else.

“In the crowded health and wellness space, finding quality products you can trust is more challenging than ever,” Kriegler notes. “These top supplements and tips can help you continue on your health journey and our Life Time complimentary app is a great content resource for articles, recipes and more.”

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.