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Expert Heidi Kristoffer Shares Top 4 Ways to Achieve Wellness this Holiday Season

2021-12-17T10:05:00

(BPT) – Between holiday planning, entertaining and traveling, the festive season can be merry yet stressful, even more so given the uncertainty that persists today. Coupled with the new year ahead (aka New Year’s resolutions on the horizon), our overall well-being can likely use a refresh. It’s important to remember that wellness is not a “one size fits all” as what may work for some doesn’t work for everyone; instead, strive to find a routine that works best for you and allows you to feel good. Yoga and wellness expert Heidi Kristoffer describes holistic wellness as every part of your well-being feeling truly well, including your physical and emotional state, allowing you to be the optimal you. Heidi’s shared how she maintains a holistic wellness routine as well as some of her tips for creating a personalized regimen to help you be the best you — from the inside out!

  1. Food is Fuel
    It’s important to consider what we fuel our bodies with — what we put in affects us on every level! Find foods that bring you joy, have nutritional benefits and allow you to feel good. That’s why I love almonds: one serving (a handful or 28g) contains 6g of plant-based protein, 4g of fiber, 13g of unsaturated fat, only 1g of saturated fat and 20% of your recommended magnesium needs (aka natural fuel!) allowing you to stay energized and full. Plus, almonds are versatile! A DIY trail mix with almonds or a smoothie with almond milk and/or almond butter is an easy, delicious way to ensure you get protein and fiber to feel good throughout the day.
  2. Schedule Time for Wellness
    Prioritize your self-care by scheduling time on your calendar! If it’s not on my calendar, it’s most likely not going to happen. Setting aside time to accomplish your goals is a must, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Simply doing 10 minutes of yoga (like the time-efficient flows I created for CrossFlow Yoga), walking or eating a healthy snack, like almonds, during a break improves your mood instantly and elevates your energy levels to tackle the rest of your day.
  3. Be Realistic with Your Choices
    Don’t dive into the deep end before learning to swim! Set yourself up for success when trying to change habits. Start small: let go of unhealthy habits for good by taking micro steps — replace one small thing at a time with a healthier alternative. Over time your micro steps will yield massive changes, if done consistently and in a manner that doesn’t shock your system. If you are unsure where to start improving your self-care, it can be as easy as starting with choosing and being prepared with the right foods — a healthy diet is an important part of a holistic self-care routine. I keep my almond tin with me at all times for just that reason: it satiates my hunger and ensures I make good snacking choices.
  4. Practice Mindfulness
    Remember that “what the mind believes, the body follows.” You must believe you can before you will: only you have the power to get YOU where you want to be and make the choices to support your goals. For me, I like to focus on healing by making time for self-care which often means eating nourishing foods coupled with daily movement. There will be days when all is easier said than done, so it’s important to take a step back to just BREATHE. Taking the time to breathe allows you to be in the here and the now, so you can focus on the present moment.

Another great way to upgrade your holistic wellness routine is by getting the whole family involved in the kitchen. Heidi enjoys having her kids cook along with her as this allows both family time and a teachable moment for her kids to learn healthy habits. Ready to level-up your well-being? Try Heidi’s Power-Up Green smoothie recipe — a delicious, filling way to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need to tackle your day.

Power-Up Green Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 cup kale, torn into pieces, ribs removed
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 1 frozen banana (peeled prior to freezing)
  • 2 tablespoon almond butter
  • Slivered almonds (optional)

Preparation:

  • Place almond milk, kale, spinach, banana and almond butter in blender and blend until smooth. Add more almond milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  • Top with slivered almonds for a pretty garnish.

If you’re interested in exploring Heidi’s other go-to recipes, please visit almonds.com. Follow @californialamonds and @heidikristoffer for more inspiration on how to fuel a better you this season.

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Want to make a difference? Here’s how you can, by doing your current job from an island

2021-12-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you want to make a difference, you’re not alone: New research shows that 61% of people consider giving back and making a positive impact on their local community as “very important,” rising to 68% among Gen Z and 67% of millennials. The study, conducted by Lenovo, also reveals that the ability to work remotely opens up more possibilities to do this, with four out of five people ages 18 to 40 viewing working from anywhere as beneficial to society, communities, employers and employees. The survey also shows the younger workforce’s mindset towards community engagement, as 86% of Gen Z members see the importance of supporting their local community in areas like environmental and social issues.

One unique way to make a difference

For those wanting to make an impact on the world but wondering what to do, there’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity available: experiencing firsthand how to make a long-lasting difference with a remote island community while working from one of the most remote offices in the world, enabled by today’s advanced technology.

Lenovo’s Work for Humankind initiative, in partnership with Island Conservation and the Robinson Crusoe Island community in Chile, is calling on volunteers from around the world to participate in this unique opportunity to take their hybrid work to the island and collaborate on life-changing restoration projects on Robinson Crusoe Island. The projects will focus on helping to protect endangered species, as well as supporting the local community on its journey to sustainability.

Where is Robinson Crusoe Island?

One of the most ecologically rich places on Earth, Robinson Crusoe Island is located over 400 miles off Chile’s coast in the southern Pacific Ocean. The island faces many challenges, including access to education and health care, plus the impact of habitat degradation and invasive species.

The local community, the international nonprofit Island Conservation and the Chilean Government have initiated community-driven projects over the last decade to address these problems. However, their efforts are hindered by telecommunications and technology limitations. Despite this, the island community is committed to protecting their natural and cultural legacy and aims to achieve sustainability through greater independence to meet their food and energy needs, as well as conserving their natural and cultural heritage.

What this program will do

Work for Humankind will select volunteers with a range of skills and backgrounds to help with a variety of projects on the island, including developing much-needed connectivity solutions for the island’s infrastructure, all while being able to continue working their current jobs remotely.

Lenovo is creating a cutting-edge technology hub with a range of technology devices, services and solutions from the company’s Intelligent Devices Group, including high-speed internet connectivity, to help the island advance its goals — and equipping volunteers to do their day jobs remotely while volunteering to support conservation projects on this haven of wildlife and cultural diversity. The company is committed to leaving a lasting legacy on the island to support the community’s goals, and for these benefits to be felt long after the volunteer project is completed.

“Due to the life-changing nature of the pandemic and society’s increased focus on sustainability, people are recognizing the weight of doing good,” said Emily Ketchen, vice president and CMO of Intelligent Devices Group, Lenovo. “To help us achieve this, we need to work differently, and we’re relying on technology to help us do so. That’s why we’re launching Work for Humankind, to draw attention to the importance of our individual well-being as well as that of our communities, by showcasing how innovation in technology can enable us achieve both.”

How you can volunteer

Some of the many wide-ranging skills and expertise needed for the volunteer positions include:

  • Computer/data scientist
  • Radio/communications specialist
  • Field biologist
  • Sustainability manager/specialist
  • Social/digital marketer
  • Content creator
  • Sports fitness coach
  • Food content creator/chef
  • Renewable energy specialist
  • Spanish/English translator

If you’re interested in becoming one of the lucky volunteers to support the project on Robinson Crusoe Island while still being able to continue working your current day job remotely, learn more at www.LenovoWFH.com by Dec. 30, 2021.

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How To Stay Safer and Healthier While Traveling This Holiday Season [Infographic]

2021-12-16T09:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re traveling near or far, it’s important to keep up proper germ prevention methods to help you and your loved ones stay healthy. That’s why Clorox is collaborating with some of the most iconic travel brands to provide disinfecting products and best practices for cleaning and disinfecting so consumers can feel more confident when they leave home this holiday season.

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5 reasons to consider donating plasma today

2021-12-16T17:33:32

(BPT) – Throughout the past year, you may have heard about plasma in terms of its potential use in treating COVID-19. However, for more than 80 years, plasma has been a lifeline for thousands of people who live with rare and chronic complex conditions. Plasma donations are critical in helping save lives because they are used to make life-sustaining medicine. Even with the global pandemic shedding light on the role of plasma in fighting disease, many people may not know how thousands around the country rely on plasma every day.

Here are five key reasons to consider donating plasma today.

1. Plasma is used to make life-saving medicine

Plasma carries out a variety of functions in the body, including helping the body fight disease. Plasma donations are processed into life-saving medicine for people with rare and chronic conditions including immunodeficiency disorders. Often, there are no alternative treatments for these conditions. Plasma donations are life-changing and provide an opportunity for patients around the country to live a happier and healthier life.

2. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab

Even with the scientific advances in the health care industry, medicine developed from plasma can only be made from plasma donated from healthy adults. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab or any other artificial environment. Because of this, plasma has become a scarce yet life-changing resource for people who rely on these plasma-based medicines.

3. The plasma donation process is safe and fast

Thousands of people donate plasma safely every day. Donating plasma is a low-risk procedure with minimal or no side effects. On a donor’s first visit to a plasma donation center, the whole process, including a physical examination, medical screening and the plasma donation, usually takes about two hours. Future visits take less time.

Because the body quickly replenishes the plasma removed during the donation process, healthy individuals may donate as often as twice in a seven-day period, with at least one day between donations. To learn more about the donation process visit www.biolifeplasma.com.

4. Many individuals are eligible to donate plasma

To donate plasma, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and pass all other required donor eligibility criteria to protect the donor’s health and safety of the plasma. Healthy individuals who are eligible to donate their plasma can do so, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.

5. There is an urgent need for plasma donations

With plasma donations lower than usual through the pandemic and the demand for medicine developed from plasma growing worldwide, the need for plasma is more urgent than ever. Global demand for these therapies has increased over the past 20 years — and continues to grow due to more rare diseases being identified as well as more patients being diagnosed. Everyone has the power to make a difference through plasma donation and potentially help save lives.

How can you help?

The need for plasma is greater than ever and BioLife Plasma Services, part of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, is welcoming plasma donors to help at centers around the country. In addition to potentially making a positive impact on someone’s life, plasma donors are compensated in recognition of the time, commitment and the effort required for their donation. Find a plasma donation center near you at www.biolifeplasma.com, or by downloading the BioLife App.

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Psoriatic arthritis: 4 tips on how to advocate for yourself

2021-12-16T15:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company

Psoriatic arthritis is a progressive form of inflammatory arthritis that can cause swelling, stiffness and pain in and around the joints. Because psoriatic arthritis can be difficult to diagnose, many living with this chronic autoimmune disease may also experience a delay in their diagnosis, which can be incredibly tiresome and frustrating. If you or a loved one are struggling with the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, it is important to advocate for yourself and bring up symptoms early with a physician when discussing potential treatment options.

Psoriatic arthritis affects approximately 600,000 Americans and more than 12 million people worldwide, including Julie, a wife, mother of three and physical therapist. In 2015, Julie began noticing swollen joints, joint pain and “sausage digits,” also known as dactylitis, which included painful swelling of the fingers and toes. It would later be revealed to her that these symptoms are characteristic of psoriatic arthritis, and she was eventually able to find treatment with Taltz® (ixekizumab) injection 80 mg/mL. To learn more about Julie’s experience with Taltz, please visit https://www.taltz.com/psoriatic-arthritis/patient-stories.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis

According to the Spondylitis Association of America, psoriatic arthritis can occur when an overactive immune system sends out faulty signals that cause inflammation, leading to swollen and painful joints and tendons. Psoriatic arthritis affects joints in the arms and legs, such as the elbows, wrists, hands and feet. If left untreated, it can cause permanent joint damage.

“I had tried to deal with the symptoms on my own. At a certain point, I decided that I needed to see a doctor because my joint symptoms were so severe that I hadn’t jogged a step in several months, which was a big deal for me because jogging is such a big part of my life.”

For Julie, being able to move and exercise made her feel physically better and helped her to emotionally recharge and be able to connect with her loved ones. “My daily walk or jog was my time to think, collect myself and just have some ‘me time’ so I could return home to my family recharged and refreshed.”

Aside from the fear of losing part of her identity as a jogger, Julie also began to notice daily pain and discomfort due to her psoriatic arthritis. Prior to treatment, she found herself hesitant to even attend her children’s sporting events because it was painful and uncomfortable to stand for long periods of time, and her feet and toes were so swollen and painful that walking up and down bleachers became a challenge.

Along with her joint pain and swelling, she noticed areas of plaque psoriasis on her scalp and back – another common symptom for people with psoriatic arthritis. Eventually, determined to find a treatment, she went to see her doctor about her symptoms and received a diagnosis.

Julie’s experience going to see her rheumatologist

Julie emphasized the importance of being an advocate for yourself and being open and honest with your physician about the impact your condition is having on you and letting them know if your current treatment isn’t working for you.

At a crossroads in her treatment journey, Julie went to her rheumatologist and shared that her current treatment was no longer working for her and she wanted to try something different. Julie’s rheumatologist suggested Taltz, and she was excited to learn there was another treatment option out there.

“When you realize psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition, at first it feels like a gut punch. I will have to be managing this situation forever. It is crucial to be open in your discussions with your physician to find the best treatment that will work for you,” said Julie. “I didn’t know anybody who had been on Taltz. My doctor did, though, and that made me more comfortable going through with treating my psoriatic arthritis with Taltz.”

Julie’s experience with Taltz

Julie connected with Taltz TogetherTM, a program that offers numerous resources, ranging from helping you get started on Taltz to giving you the tools you need throughout your treatment journey. The program helped Julie navigate the approval process with her insurance, and she recommends it to anyone who is worried about affordability of their treatment.

With Taltz, Julie soon began to feel relief. “I started taking Taltz in October 2019. I was expecting to have a positive experience with it given my rheumatologist’s recommendation, and as it turns out, my experience exceeded my expectations! Taltz has been the only medication that has taken care of both my joints and my skin. I felt significant relief from my joint pain and swelling, and for me that was remarkable.”

If you’re living with debilitating joint pain and swelling caused by psoriatic arthritis, it’s important to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and your treatment goals. As with all medications, individual results will vary and your doctor can help you find the treatment that is right for you.

Julie also shared a few tips on how those living with psoriatic arthritis or other chronic conditions can advocate for themselves at the doctor’s office:

  • Feel empowered to let your doctor know about all your symptoms that might be unusual, not just the one that brought you in
  • Ask for techniques on how to best manage your symptoms, including stress
  • Tell your doctor what is and isn’t working for you; be open and honest with them
  • Know that your feelings are validated – while it may be scary when you first receive a diagnosis, there are options that will help address your symptoms.

“I understand the feeling of being at a fork in the road with your treatment and not knowing how to proceed,” said Julie. “If the pain of psoriatic arthritis is causing you to miss out on things that are important to you, your doctor can be a great resource and partner to determine if Taltz is right for you.”

This article represents Julie’s personal experiences. Individual results may vary. In clinical trials more than half of people with active psoriatic arthritis taking Taltz experienced joint symptom improvement at 24 weeks. Some patients felt joint symptom relief as early as 1 week. And in a study of patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, 90% of people saw significant improvement of their plaques at 12 weeks.

Julie was compensated for her time.

PURPOSE AND SAFETY SUMMARY

Important Facts About Taltz® (tol-ts). It is a prescription medicine also known as ixekizumab.

Taltz is an injectable medicine used to treat:

  • People six years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy).
  • Adults with active psoriatic arthritis.
  • Adults with active ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis with objective signs of inflammation.

It is not known if Taltz is safe and effective in children for conditions other than plaque psoriasis or in children under 6 years of age.

Warnings

  • Taltz affects the immune system. It may increase your risk of infections, which can be serious. Do not use Taltz if you have any symptoms of infection, unless your doctor tells you to. If you have a symptom after starting Taltz, call your doctor right away.
  • Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before you start Taltz, and watch you closely for signs of TB during and after treatment with Taltz.
  • If you have TB, or had it in the past, your doctor may treat you for it before you start Taltz.
  • Do not use Taltz if you have had a serious allergic reaction to ixekizumab or any other ingredient in Taltz, such as: swelling of your eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, feeling faint, throat or chest tightness, or skin rash. Get emergency help right away if you have any of these reactions. See the Medication Guide that comes with Taltz for a list of ingredients.
  • Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (inflammatory bowel disease) can start or get worse with Taltz use. Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms or if they get worse: stomach pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
  • You should not get live vaccines while taking Taltz. You should get the vaccines you need before you start Taltz.

Common side effects

The most common side effects of Taltz include:

  • Injection site reactions
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Nausea
  • Fungal skin infections

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects. You can report side effects at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before using

Before you use Taltz, review these questions with your doctor:

  • Are you being treated for an infection?
  • Do you have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back?
  • Do you have TB or have you been in close contact with someone with TB?
  • Do you have possible symptoms of an infection such as fever, cough, sores, diarrhea, or other symptoms? Ask your doctor about other possible symptoms.
  • Do you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?

Tell your doctor if:

  • You need any vaccines or have had one recently.
  • You take prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
  • You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Taltz can harm an unborn baby.
  • You are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Taltz passes into breastmilk.

How to take

See the instructions for use that come with Taltz. There you will find information about how to store, prepare, and inject Taltz. Adults may self-inject after receiving training from a healthcare provider.

For people under 18 years of age:

  • Weighing less than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): Taltz must be given by a healthcare provider.
  • Weighing more than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): If your healthcare provider decides that your caregiver may give your injections of Taltz at home, your caregiver should ask and receive training from a healthcare provider on the right way to prepare and inject Taltz.

Learn more

For more information, call 1-800-545-5979 or go to taltz.com.

This summary provides basic information about Taltz and is not comprehensive. Read the information that comes with your prescription each time your prescription is filled. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor. Be sure to talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider about Taltz and how to take it. Your doctor is the best person to help you decide if Taltz is right for you.

IX CON BS 29MAY2020

Taltz® is a registered trademark owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates. Taltz Together™ is a trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

PP-IX-US-5098 11/2021 ©Lilly USA, LLC 2021. All rights reserved.

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3 Ways to Celebrate International Human Solidarity Day

2021-12-16T15:21:00

(BPT) – Celebrated on December 20 every year, International Human Solidarity Day is a time for communities around the world to come together and celebrate the universal values that unite all people irrespective of culture, color or creed.

This holiday season, when making new connections or renewing cherished bonds, why not share the spirit of solidarity with as many people as you can, and help make the world a better place.

1. Learn About Other Cultures. Take every opportunity that comes your way to learn about the beautiful differences of humanity’s many cultures and feel how connected all of us really are.

Visit a Museum. What better venue than a museum to appreciate the diversity and beauty of human endeavor? Whether the focus is art and culture, history, science or fashion, the exhibits on display can broaden your perspective and make you feel connected to others through a shared and rich history. Next time you pay a visit, try to imagine the emotions, concerns and desires of the people behind the innovations and artifacts you see, and take a moment to realize that they are no different than the ones that all humans experience regardless of who they are or where they are from.

Broaden Your Horizon with Art. Through the medium of art, we can learn about the poignant and moving stories of people from all around the globe. And thanks to the magic of technology, we can now do so effortlessly in the comfort of our own homes. Watching a movie or documentary online about a culture you’re unfamiliar with can help you explore and understand how others live – without even having to leave the couch.

An artistic collaboration between creators from various cultures can provide both an educational and entertaining experience – such as LG Electronics’ uplifting Life’s Good Film. Helmed by up-and-coming director Jackson Tisi, the film showcases the exquisite differences of the world’s natural environments, cities and people, using footage submitted by young filmmakers from a total of 33 countries. A masterful meditation on how what separates us also unites us, the 20-minute short film will be screened at the Arpa International Film Festival, Creation International Film Festival, and the Oregon Documentary Film Festival in the coming weeks.

2. Start the Conversation. The more people know about International Human Solidarity Day, the bigger its impact will be – so take a proactive approach to spread awareness and promote the importance of international solidarity through your words and actions this December 20, and beyond.

Raise Your Voice. Speak up about an issue that requires attention and action from the global community, such as diversity and inclusion, child hunger or environmental protection. Be open and honest about your views and share your own personal stories to reach out and truly make a difference. If you’re starting off the conversation on social media, use the hashtag #humansolidarityday2021 to spread the word and draw others to the cause.

Create Shared Experiences. It doesn’t always take a big, important imperative to gather people around – sometimes, having fun is enough for the job. In this day and age, social media platforms connect us to people all over the world, allowing us to enjoy shared interests and to create mutual experiences. Young talents around the world gathered in the virtual platform of LG’s Life’s Good Music Project, firmly connected by their mutual love for music. Their talents were ultimately combined to produce an uplifting song that is all about holding hope for a better future. Dancers were called onto the stage as well, with LG’s #lifeisgooddance TikTok challenge, which featured the cheery Life’s Good song – the perfect tune to tap your feet to.

3. Be the Difference. There are global entities working at the highest level to tackle worldwide crises, including poverty and climate change. Stand in solidarity with them by doing what you can as an individual to make a positive difference.

Give to International Aid. For nations whose citizens are living in extreme poverty, international aid can provide critical support and resources to help move the needle in the right direction. Play your part by making a donation to an organization that’s dedicated to getting help to those who need it. It doesn’t have to be a financial donation either – many global non-profits have volunteer programs that allow you to get more directly involved in the task of effecting change.

Be a Green Citizen. Fight back against climate change by adopting a greener lifestyle. By following environmental activists and sustainability gurus online, you’ll be able to pick up a range of green-living tips that you can easily incorporate into your daily life. Influencer Immy Lucas, a goldmine of sustainable life hacks, joined with LG to share her knowledge in a short film called Life’s Good: Environment. The film not only introduces easy ways to live more harmoniously with nature, such as growing your own herbs and vegetables, but also shows the importance of community and coming together in the name of something bigger than ourselves.

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Americans report significant new health behaviors over the last year

2021-12-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’ve started exercising more, been more mindful about eating and started taking vitamins and supplements, you’re definitely not alone. While navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have undoubtedly made significant changes to their health and wellness habits.

Recently released results from a global survey conducted by Amway, an entrepreneur-led health and wellness company, and The Logit Group are putting a finer point on consumer behavioral changes over the past 20+ months.

The survey — which analyzed 1,000 respondents in the U.S. — found Americans reported new health and wellness behaviors over the last year. Roughly two in five Americans report that they have made positive changes with diet (41%), fitness routines (41%) and the addition of new multivitamins or other supplements (44%). Furthermore, three in four Americans surveyed report they now regularly consume health and wellness supplements (75%) as they seek out ways to help strengthen their immune systems.

Motivators for these positive changes vary, with 75% of American respondents saying they are trying to improve their current state of health and 54% saying they are trying to prevent future health conditions.

Consumers expect transparency regarding where a product comes from and how it’s made.

Adults are more concerned about the types of products they consume, and 57% of Americans said that traceability — knowing where a product and its ingredients come from — is an important consideration in purchasing decisions. Furthermore, almost seven in 10 Americans say they would have more trust in a company if its health and wellness products are easily traceable.

“This survey confirms a growing consumer demand for product transparency and traceability — a demand further accelerated by growth of health and wellness supplement usage during the pandemic,” said François Renard, Amway Chief Marketing Officer.

“At Amway, we believe that consumers deserve to know what is in the products they are taking. For products like Nutrilite, that means tracing botanical ingredients from seed to supplement to ensure they are pure and ethically produced, and documenting manufacturing details to ensure every product is made safe and effective. Traceability is an integral part of our supply chain and has been core to our business for more than 60 years.”

Additional results from the survey include:

  • Adults say they feel more concerned about the products they consume, including 62% of American respondents, compared to a year ago.
  • 60% of American adults are more likely to look for a trusted seal of approval or check the ingredients; 52% want to understand how the products have been safely tested. One in three think beyond the product itself, contemplating how many people it had to go through before arriving at their doorstep.
  • A majority of American respondents (58%) have become more aware over the past year of how consumable health and wellness products are made and the testing done to prove their safety and quality.
  • The majority of American adults (53%) feel that traceability is an important consideration when buying food.
  • Celebrity endorsements or social media recommendations were cited as two of the least influential factors that impact the likelihood of purchasing health and wellness products, only 21% and 25% respectively.

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Last-Minute Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas

2021-12-16T12:45:00

(BPT) – Santa’s elves are working overtime this holiday season, and so are you! With all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to wait until the last minute to buy stocking-stuffer essentials that will surprise and delight. Good thing Big Lots has you covered with plenty of quirky, fun treasures that will fill stockings and hearts.

Feeling festive and low-key fancy? Throw a French Lavender 5-Piece Shower Set into a stocking and treat your loved ones to an at-home spa day to fight off the post-holiday blues. Add in a 16 oz. jar of Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salt Scrub and Red Snowflake Moisturizing Spa Socks infused with aloe & vitamin E, and they’ll really be in heaven!

Now that you’ve got your loved ones feeling like a million bucks, they’ll be ready to use this 6” Desktop Ring Light for their close-up. Selfies get a glow up with the even lighting, multiple color temperature choices and brightness settings available on this ring light. Holiday family photos will never look better!

Help the wine connoisseurs in your life save every last drop, and do it in holiday style with this Snowman Foam Bottle Topper that fits most wine and beer bottles. Crack open some smiles and a cold one by adding this expressive Gingerbread Man Magnetic Bottle Opener to a stocking. With a magnet on back, this bottle opener will never be out of reach and will add a festive feel to your fridge.

Candy canes are everywhere this time of year — predominantly those of the peppermint variety. Change it up with a 12-pack of Skittles, Red Hots, Lifesavers, Dum-Dums or even Oreo-flavored candy canes to give your taste buds a treat. If you’re not a fan of eating these sweets, candy canes add a retro feel and pop of color to any Christmas tree.

Let’s be honest — stockings are way too small for all the goodies we want to give. Set this silly Hip-Hop Llama on the mantle and enjoy the show as your family unpacks their gifts.

And of course, let’s not forget our four-legged friends with holiday-themed toys they’ll love, like this Smiling Christmas Tree Plush and the Blue Fish Cat Kicker. They’ll be sniffing at the chance to investigate their stockings and begin hours of playtime.

When you have a difficult-to-buy-for family member on your list, give the universally loved gift of a candle. These Winter Wonder Lane snowflake decal jar candles not only look and smell great, but they fit perfectly into a stocking as well.

Don’t forget to fill any extra stocking space with other delectable treats and $1 Stocking Stuffers from Big Lots’ unique selection like Tootsie Roll banks, Frosty Nerds, candy shot glasses and much, much more.

Fret not this holiday season when you realize you still need to fill your family stockings, and head to Big Lots for exceptional value and a fun experience!

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5 surprising ways smart appliances can save your relationship

2021-12-16T04:01:00

(BPT) – Integrating smart home systems into our homes is a trend that’s here to stay. From making home life more efficient, to upping the luxury ante, it can also greatly enhance the living experience for couples living in close quarters. Whether you’ve already smartened your space with products that take convenience to the next level or you are just starting the process, here are five ways that smart products can help improve your connection with your significant other.

1. Reimagine Your Morning Ritual

Kicking off the morning with a steaming hot cup of coffee is the only way to start the day for most, but it can also be the perfect way to show your partner a little thoughtfulness as they prepare to take on their busy day. If your partner can’t miss a morning workout, place an order directly from your phone via the Home Connect™ app to your WIFI-enabled coffee machine to ensure her order is ready by the time she says Namaste. Whether a double espresso or almond milk latte, a little boost of caffeine — and technology — can go a long way in the consideration department. Happy wife, happy life!

2. Make the Most of Your Meal Time

At the end of a long day, whether you’ve been wrangling kids or juggling conference calls (or both), when dinnertime strikes you can be left feeling pretty uninspired. But what if you had a built-in sous chef to help take some of the load off and help get your meal prepared? With a smart oven configured with Home Connect™ from Thermador, you can spend less time stressing over prep and more time enjoying your spouse’s company. You can even turn the evening into a date night at home. Select recipes and receive step-by-step guidance to cook like a pro via the Home Connect™ app and enjoy creating a delicious dinner together. Pro tip: Make the most of your moments after a long day, by pre-heating — and monitoring — the oven from afar with your Apple Watch so that you can catch up over a glass of wine on the patio without having to interrupt the conversation. You’ll certainly be nurturing your connection.

3. Ease Your Partner’s Mind with Energy Efficiency

We’ve all been there — that moment of panic as you and your spouse settle into your airplane seats for a long-awaited vacation, only to wonder about what loose ends you forgot to tie back at home. Did you lock all doors? What about the appliances? The blame game begins and your happy vacation mood suddenly sours. Enter Home Connect™. With the app, easily set the refrigerator to vacation mode so your partner’s energy worries will wane long before you touch down at your travel destination. To further calm the waters, you can also monitor the temperature, humidity and a range of other controls from your phone so that the only temp you have to think about is at your holiday spot. Save the argument for your return flight!

4. Access the AC from Anywhere

She’s cold, you’re hot — what else is new? Often times, couples will find themselves disagreeing over what the perfect temp is, leading to annoying arguments. If you run warm, you might find it frustrating that your partner keeps cranking up the heat — and even worse, if you’re the one having to get in and out of bed to adjust the thermostat. While you’re unlikely to be successful at changing their body temperature, smart thermostats can at least help you to control the climate of the room, without having to get up, thanks to AI-operated voice assistants such as Google Assistant that are specifically designed to work together for an ultra-convenient automated experience. An added bonus? You can save on your expenses by controlling the thermostat while you’re out of the house. By managing the temperature directly from your smartphone, returning home to a space that’s too much in either direction will be a thing of the past.

5. Breeze Through Your Bedtime Routine

As anyone in a long-term relationship can attest to, partnership is all about compromise. And smart home systems can work wonders to make this facet of your relationship all the more seamless. Take your evening routine. After winding down with a glass of wine, diving in to your favorite book or streaming your must-watch movie, the last thing you want to do is get up from bed to turn off the lights as you’re both falling asleep. But with automated home features and voice control, you can simply use your voice or mobile device and comfortably stay put if you’re feeling stubborn (stopping an argument before it starts).

Experience a complete smart home system engineered for seamless connection throughout the whole home with systems such as Crestron. Because it’s not always one size fits all when it comes to technology, customize your settings so that both of you benefit. If your partner likes to take in the view in the morning and watch the sun rise, set your system to bring up the blinds for when he’s waking up. Along the same lines, as she tries to catch a few more z’s, automatically set the snooze on your alarm to allow her a bit more rest time. Not only will you both enjoy the convenience of the technology, but you’ll also appreciate each other’s thoughtfulness. It’s a win-win situation for all.

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5 trends to inspire your outdoor living space design in 2022

2021-12-16T00:01:00

(BPT) – Since 2020, you’ve likely spent more time at home than ever before. As a result, you’re more conscious of how you use your space and how design can impact your comfort and ease. To give you a bit more variety beyond your home’s walls, consider redesigning your outdoor spaces to create a haven for recreation and relaxation. Best of all, outdoor spaces add value to your home if you plan to sell.

If you need ideas on how to revamp your outdoor spaces, consider these top five outdoor design trends for 2022. Get inspired and create your own outdoor oasis.

1. Functionality

Homeowners are prioritizing day-to-day use of their outdoor spaces instead of entertaining, driving a need for functionality. Practical elements like lighting and audio technology can elevate the outdoor space. Other features like shade structures, privacy walls and screens, built-in barbecue grills and Wi-Fi allow you to use the space for working, relaxing, cooking and more.

2. Defined rooms

Whether it’s an outdoor kitchen, office or living room, homeowners are leaning toward creating more efficient, defined outdoor spaces. Homeowners want to use outdoor living on a day-to-day basis to unwind, connect with nature and take advantage of the health and well-being benefits the outdoors provide. Having an outdoor office can increase your productivity while decreasing stress as you enjoy the greenery and fresh air. Adding an outdoor kitchen may inspire you to make dishes using herbs and veggies you’ve grown in your garden, and an outdoor living room can help you bring the family together at the end of the school and workday.

3. Monochromatic colors with accents

While lighter, tone-on-tone color palettes remain popular, accent colors and accessories are on the rise. Using cool, monochromatic tones with choice accent colors can create a brighter or contrasting outdoor living space. Jetset, Belgard’s 2022 Color of the Year, is a true blue that is the perfect pop of color to enhance any color palette. “Jetset is a much-needed dose of liveliness and joy,” said Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard. “It represents the excitement of a new year and the readiness to do more, be more and live more.”

4. Modular design and geometric patterns

Another popular trend is modular, geometric standard patterns composed of clean lines and simple formats. Simple patterns create a modern, uncluttered aesthetic that emphasizes furniture or other focal points in the space. Large format patterns and pavers also lend themselves to this style, allowing for more efficient installation.

5. Entangled design

As people blend their outdoor spaces to serve as extensions of their homes, many are focusing on entangled design, which combines the surrounding landscape with the hardscape design. Fractured edges with no defined break, natural stone transitions and irregular edges blended with boulders, grass and aggregate create a more natural, organic look that enhances design continuity. To increase the depth of greens, grays and other neutral tones associated with entangled, biophilic design, consider using Jetset as the accent color for your outdoor spaces.

Feeling inspired but don’t know where to start? Belgard Rooms offers homeowners a templated approach to design outdoor spaces that fit their needs and design style. By visiting Belgard.com/Rooms, you can take a style quiz, define your outdoor room needs, and fast-track the design and installation process so you can enjoy your outdoor space sooner.