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How to say buh-bye to ‘Ozempic face’

2024-07-11T13:01:00

(BPT) – Are you one of the many Americans who has benefited from losing weight quickly due to GLP-1 medications? If so, you’re probably feeling grateful for the improved health and appearance these groundbreaking medications have provided — but less so for the loose, sagging skin that may be left behind.

You’re not alone — the term “Ozempic face” has been trending for a reason, as many people who are taking these medications are also seeing this less-than-ideal side effect along with their desired weight loss.

Why does your skin have so much trouble bouncing back?

Starting as early as your 20s, the collagen within the middle layer of your skin begins to diminish, resulting in your skin becoming less and less elastic as you get older.

“When you experience rapid weight loss, it can be hard for your skin to bounce back, resulting in the loose or sagging skin look that is so disappointing for many of my patients,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, Capital Laser & Skin Care. “This kind of problem can also be seen in the upper arms, especially for women who have a genetic predisposition to gain weight there.”

A new, non-invasive solution

If all of this sounds familiar to you, you’ll be glad to know there is a new, award-winning, in-office and non-invasive ultrasound treatment designed specifically to address this problem. The treatment is called Sofwave™, and it stimulates the skin’s collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid using SUPERB™ Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology to improve fine lines and wrinkles, lift the eyebrows, under the chin and neck area.

Sofwave™ has been FDA-cleared to:

  • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
  • Lift the eyebrow
  • Lift lax skin under the chin and along the jawline
  • Lift neck tissue
  • Improve skin laxity on the upper arms
  • Reduce the appearance of cellulite
  • Improve acne scars

How does it work?

The SUPERB™ Technology heats the dermis at the right temperature, triggering the healing response that increases both collagen and elastin in the skin, which is necessary to maintain volume. Best yet, this cutting-edge technology works on any skin type or skin tone, for all ages.

After just one 45-minute in-office treatment, patients show significant improvement in 12 weeks. The procedure is safe and comfortable, requiring only topical anesthetic to numb the skin.

“Some people may want to schedule an additional treatment to see even better results,” said Tanzi. “Your dermatologist may recommend one treatment every 18-24 months to help you maintain your youthful appearance.”

“Sofwave is a terrific option for anyone, at any age, who wants to build-up collagen and elastin in the skin and improve their skin health and firmness,” said Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Gabriele Miotto. “It can help patients with issues that have become so common with rapid weight loss due to GLP-1 medications, or patients who want to be proactive in boosting or improving their skin health.”

Additional treatments to tone your abs, thighs and buttocks

If you’re looking to improve other areas of your body as well, you may want to ask your dermatologist about Pure Impact™, an Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) device that uses electric pulses transmitted by electrodes to elicit muscle contraction and stimulate nerve fibers by means of electrical pulses transmitted by electrodes. Pure Impact™ is FDA-cleared to improve abdominal tone, strengthen abdominal muscles, develop a firmer abdomen, strengthen, tone and firm buttocks and thighs.

Learn more about how you can continue to maximize the strides you’ve made so far, and keep boosting your confidence along the way, at Sofwave.com.

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Watching the Games? See How U.S. Army Soldier-athletes Train for Gold

2024-07-11T16:01:00

(BPT) – This month, all eyes are on Paris as the world tunes in to watch the top athletes fight for gold.

Among those competing on behalf of the United States is an elite group who have chosen to serve their country in more ways than one — U.S. Army Soldier-athletes. What does it take for these Soldiers to train and perform at the highest levels of both sport and service?

The Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system is a force-wide program used to optimize the five domains of health: physical, mental, nutritional, spiritual, and sleep. This holistic approach is central to how all Soldiers prepare their minds and bodies for every aspect of competition, including on the world stage.

Here are five best practices from elite Soldier-athletes that everyone can incorporate into their own health and wellness journey:

Save Space for Physical Recovery

Soldier-athletes push their bodies to the limit in preparation for their events, but they also know the importance of rest and recovery. Staff Sgt. Leonard Korir (pictured above), a track and field athlete born and raised in Kenya, is making his second appearance at the Games this year. To train for the steeplechase and marathon events, he practices strength and endurance exercises designed by his coaches and always makes sure to factor recovery time into his regimen. Similarly, in Shotgun Trap, Staff Sgt. William Hinton uses a method called peak periodization, training with variations in intensity and recovery to maximize his performance when it comes time to compete.

SSG William Hinton standing on a concrete slab with arms crossed.
Staff Sgt. William Hinton will make his Paris debut in the Trap shooting event.


Make Nutrition Work for You

To date, Soldier-athletes have competed in over 30 events, all requiring a unique nutritional regimen to achieve peak performance. Maj. Kelly Kaim is the Lead Performance Dietitian for the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete Program where she consults with Soldier-athletes on their dietary needs. Kaim tailors her approach to nutrition based on the Soldiers’ specific sports and bodies. This might look like higher proteins and lower carbohydrates for weight-cutting athletes, and higher calories and carbohydrates for endurance athletes. She recommends this approach for anyone trying to build more intentional eating habits. Don’t make drastic changes to your diet, but rather small additions of things you like and subtractions of what you can do without. By making eating a positive experience to look forward to, it will make implementing healthy habits easier.

Quiet the Mind for Peak Performance

Competing and representing your country on the global stage creates a level of stress that few can imagine. And as a woman competing in the seemingly male-dominated world of shooting, Sgt. Sagen Maddalena is no stranger to the pressure that comes with competing against the best shooters in the world, all while blazing the trail for the next generation of women in the sport. To keep her nerves and shots steady, Maddalena uses specific breathing techniques and practices mental math games that help sharpen mental acuity and minimize distractions from her environment and thoughts. By following your own rituals and routines, you can focus your attention on what matters: doing your best.

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Sgt. Sagen Maddalena will represent the United States on the world stage in the 10m Air Rifle, 10m Mixed Team Air Rifle, and 50m Smallbore events.

Benefit from the Power of Sleep

Whether feeling jet-lagged from traveling to international competitions or staying up late to meet a work deadline, sleep can be easily compromised by elite Soldier-athletes and civilians alike. But according to Maj. Allison Brager, a U.S. Army neuroscientist, H2F sleep expert, and long-time sleep consultant to the U.S. teams competing in the Games, just three days of getting less than the recommended amount of sleep can have significant impacts on the mind and body. To combat this, Korir makes sure to build a rest day into his schedule the day before a competition and avoids distractions such as social media to calm his mind and ensure he gets enough sleep. By avoiding electronics up to 90 minutes before bed and dimming the lights to help release melatonin, you can set both your mind and body up for a more restful night’s sleep.

Use Your Support System

Most Soldier-athletes fall into one of two units: the Army’s World Class Athlete Program or the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Through these groups, Soldier-athletes have access to state-of-the-art training facilities, world-class coaches and specialists, and most importantly, the support of their fellow Soldiers and teammates. As an elite Rugby Sevens player, Capt. Samantha Sullivan leans on her teammates, who are also Army Soldiers and friends, as they work toward their common goals of elite competition and service. Remember that you’re not alone in your own holistic health journey — lean on friends and family for encouragement and accountability and follow the advice of experts to determine your goals and plan for success.

Samantha Sullivan running with a ball.

Capt. Samantha Sullivan and her teammates have their eyes on gold for the Rugby Sevens event at the Games.

These tips all contribute to the pillars of H2F readiness: physical, mental, nutritional, spiritual, and sleep. Across the force, Soldiers implement these pillars into their daily life, and by working them into your own health and wellness goals, you can take small steps toward feeling like both a Soldier and athlete.

Find out more about H2F and what a Soldier’s health and wellness regimen can do for you at GoArmy.com and be sure to cheer on the Army Soldier-athletes in Paris as they put these tips to the test to bring home gold.

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Prepare for Takeoff: Relaunching Your Life Closer to Family

2024-07-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – According to a 2024 survey from HireAHelper, family was the number one reason older adults and retirees moved to a new location. Moving closer to family is an exciting and happy time, though navigating new neighborhoods, meeting new people and getting into a different routine can be a little intimidating. Fortunately, having your kids and grandkids close by can be a tremendous help in finding your footing. Plus, by using your AARP member benefits, which can be accessed anywhere, you can help make the transition even easier.

“The goal of moving closer to family is to feel safe and content, and AARP members can enjoy their relaunch closer to family while saving on everyday expenses,” said Jason Mugg, AARP Services Senior Vice President of Lifestyle. “From savings on food delivery services, to home security and phone lines, your member benefits may give you access to products and services to ease the stress of moving.”

1. Staying in Touch

While moving closer to family is an exciting time, it can also be hard to leave behind your community. As you work to build a new one, keep those ties and stay in touch with old friends, easily and affordably.

AARP member benefits have the savings you need to stay connected. Members save 5% on monthly service and usage charges with Consumer Cellular and 30% on accessories, with talk, text and data plans starting at $20 per month per line. If you need unlimited access, members can open two lines of unlimited talk, text and data for $55 per month. No contract is required and it includes free activation and an extended, 45-day risk-free guarantee.

2. Making the Big Move

Do you ever look at your furniture and wonder how you’d ever move it all? Well, for those who are relocating, it all starts with renting a truck that is big enough to fit your furniture and making sure it all arrives at your new home safely. While some rental trucks can be expensive, AARP member benefits can help knock the price down.

With Budget Truck Rentals, members can save 20% on local or one-way truck rentals on Sunday through Thursday and 10% on Friday and Saturday, plus receive a $10-per-day Physical Damage Waiver.

3. Find Your Healthcare Providers

Having family close by has many benefits, especially if they’ve been part of your new community for a while. They can be a great resource for finding some new healthcare providers, like a dentist, for example. Regular visits to the dentist brighten your smile, but they can also monitor and prevent disease, so it’s a good idea to find one quickly to maintain good oral health. AARP members have access to information on dental insurance options for a variety of budgets and needs, so you can make sure your family’s recommendations are right for you.

When it comes to finding physicians who specialize in older adults, though, younger family members might not be in the loop. In those situations, finding a local physician who is part of a nationwide network can be a huge help. Oak Street Health provides primary care for adults on Medicare, focusing on prevention with personalized care to help keep you healthy — physically, mentally and socially. AARP members and non-members can visit the Oak Street Health website to find a doctor and schedule an appointment. Benefits include same-day/next-day appointments where available, convenient locations, a dedicated care team and a 24/7 patient support line.

Similarly, with AARP® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare® Hearing, members can receive a hearing exam and consultation at no cost and personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers. Members can save an average of $2,000 per pair on prescription hearing aids and 15% on accessories — no insurance needed!

You’ve worked hard to make sure that you have the financial security you want for you and your family. And, you’ve tried to prepare for the surprises that life may bring in the future. But even the most well-thought-out strategy may not be enough to prepare you for the unexpected costs associated with long-term care. Reviewing information on long-term care options can help you prepare for the future with customized solutions to help protect your assets and lifestyle.

4. Securing Your Home & Budget

The sooner you start feeling safe in your new neighborhood, the sooner it’ll feel like home. AARP members can take advantage of benefits to ensure safety all day long while saving money at the same time. Alexa Emergency Assist from Amazon provides access to 24/7 emergency assistance through any Echo device. Members save 25% off monthly and annual subscription plans. Alexa Emergency Assist offers hands-free access to Urgent Response agents, 24/7, by simply saying “Alexa, call for help.” Your emergency contacts will be alerted if you call Urgent Response and you will receive expedited help by pre-saving your critical information.

ADT™ Home Security can also keep you safe and sound while cozied up in your home. AARP members save 5% on monthly home security monitoring that covers your smart home security systems including intrusion monitoring, connected smoke and CO detection, and smart automation from video doorbells and security cameras to smart locks. This offer can also be combined with other ADT offers, for additional savings.

A new move takes adjustment, and a little extra cash, but by using your AARP member benefits you can appreciate the joy of being close to family.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for your relaunch, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

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How does sleep affect the weight loss journey? We asked a husband-and-wife team of medical experts

2024-07-11T08:31:00

(BPT) – As a sleep medicine specialist, Dr. Christopher J. Allen knows well the importance of sleep health, which is not only defined by the number of hours the individual sleeps, but also the quality of the sleep and the absence of sleep disorders1. He regularly sees patients who have conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where obesity can be a significant risk factor. And when it comes to helping those patients address weight challenges, he knows another doctor who comes highly recommended: weight management specialist Dr. Dafina Allen. As a husband-and-wife team, the Allens often share patients between them because of the significant interplay between obesity and sleep health.

OSA is sleep disordered breathing that occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway, and it affects more than 54 million Americans2. It can lead to drowsiness and fatigue during the day, but can also increase the risk for heart attack, heart failure, stroke and contributes to high blood pressure3. By some estimates, moderate-to-severe OSA can increase mortality risk by 33%4. Obesity is a significant risk factor for OSA, occurring in an estimated 41% to 70% of patients with the condition5,6.

Sleep health and the challenge of weight loss

“When patients come to see me, they often know that weight plays some role with sleep apnea,” says Chris. “And it’s true that, for many patients, weight loss can reduce the severity of sleep apnea. But achieving that is where getting the right treatment and support matters.”

“I have patients — many of whom wind up working with Chris — who realize that their weight loss isn’t progressing because they’re not getting quality sleep,” Dafina adds. “When you aren’t sleeping well, your cortisol levels are higher, increasing your visceral fat. You tend to be more irritable; you may want to snack more and be less motivated to be active. Having an untreated sleep condition like OSA is going to be a major barrier to managing your weight in a healthy way.”

Research has shown that the relationship between OSA and weight can be reciprocal with some studies showing that obesity increases the risks of developing OSA, but also that treating OSA may help spur weight loss7.

Chris relies on positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, using a device such as ResMed CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines as the first line treatment for OSA. CPAP uses airflow to keep the airways open during sleep, and provides relief from the symptoms of OSA, which can make it easier to make the lifestyle changes needed to address obesity concerns, according to Chris.

“Sleep apnea can be overwhelming, but once a patient begins using CPAP, they often start to notice a difference,” adds Chris. “That extra energy from proper sleep may help kickstart healthier lifestyle choices. When we work with patients on sleep health issues and start to educate them about how weight may affect those conditions, they are in a better spot to adhere to treatment plans and achieve better health outcomes.”

“Simply starting the conversation is a critical part of a health journey, and with the addition of GLP-1 medications as a tool for weight management, we are seeing more people interested in engaging their doctors about weight and health in general,” Dafina adds. “As part of that, I’ve heard many more questions about sleep health. Sleep is such a critical piece of the weight loss puzzle. If a patient isn’t sleeping well, it’s going to be harder to follow a plan that requires them to change how they eat and increase their activity level, even with the help of new medications.”

Healthy weight management and successful OSA treatment

“We’ve been prescribing these medications for diabetes for some time, and with more people being prescribed GLP-1s for obesity, we’re constantly increasing what we know about how effective they are and the role they can play in healthy weight management,” adds Dafina.

While weight loss can reduce the severity of sleep apnea, her husband chimes in that it’s important to keep your healthcare professional involved in your sleep health decisions even if you have lost significant weight and feel less tired during the day.

“I’d usually want to do a sleep study to determine the impact of the weight loss on the sleep apnea before making any changes to treatment,” he says. “But we also want to make sure that if you are using one of these new medications that the weight you’ve lost remains or continues to improve once you come off the medication. If it goes back up, you are at risk of your sleep apnea getting worse once again, so we want to see people making long-term sustainable changes and make sure they stay vigilant if anything changes regarding their sleep health.”

Sleep apnea: Are you at risk?

“The hardest part of my job is that I have to talk to patients about things that happen when they’re unconscious,” adds Chris. “Many people don’t know that they have a sleep disorder and so it’s important to know your risk factors. If you have a bed partner, rely on them to let you know if you’re snoring or gasping for air at night, because that is a common sign of sleep apnea.”

For people who sleep alone, other signs that may indicate OSA include waking up frequently during the night or waking up with headaches. Diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea requires talking to a health professional, but signs and symptoms include feeling tired during the day, snoring loudly at night, waking in the middle of the night gasping for air, having a body mass index over 30, or history of high blood pressure8.

It’s estimated that up to 80% of adults with sleep apnea are undiagnosed and untreated, so knowing your risk factors and having a conversation with your doctor is critical9.

To learn more about the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea and to find out how to talk to your healthcare professional about them, take a look at the sleep resource page at resmed.com.

1 https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/37/1/9/2454038

2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7007763/

3 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2546461/

4 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2542953/

5 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/193382

6 https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.HYP.0000101686.98973.A3

7 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19700044/

8 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140019/

9 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8848533/

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New scholarship program aims to meet demand for skilled technicians

2024-07-11T08:33:00

(BPT) – Did you know there is an urgent need for nearly 800,000 skilled technicians to enter the American workforce by 2027 in order to meet demand? This pressing shortage has proven challenging to remedy, particularly due to the underrepresentation of diverse groups in skilled trades. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that women are particularly underrepresented, accounting for less than 3% of employed technicians.

At the same time, students across the U.S. are questioning the value of a traditional four-year college education, fueling a 16% surge in enrollment for vocational training programs in the last year alone. Young Americans are exploring alternative career paths more than ever, yet the significant gender gap in automotive, diesel, collision repair, aviation and avionics fields — to name a few — remains.

The evidence shows that trade industries are at a crossroads. Luckily, a recent survey by California winery Rebellious Wines revealed that most Americans (55%) believe in breaking gender norms through their career choices, suggesting an exciting solution.

Rebellious Wines, in partnership with TechForce Foundation, has taken decisive action to empower a diverse workforce while also helping to fill the urgent skills gap, by creating the Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program. This new scholarship aims to inspire individuals from all backgrounds to pursue successful careers in the skilled trades and provides more than financial aid; it opens doors for underrepresented students by empowering them to thrive in rewarding and essential careers.

“This scholarship champions the spirit of rebelling for good by empowering students from underrepresented populations to pursue careers in non-traditional fields,” said Bob DeRoose, president and CEO of Kobrand Corporation, the parent company of Rebellious Wines. “We’re committed to breaking barriers that have kept many people out of these lucrative careers. Their drive and determination will ultimately bridge the skills gap in today’s labor market, proving that the future of these industries will be both inclusive and rebellious.”

The Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program is accepting applications now through August 2024. Scholarships will be available for eligible students enrolled in any post-secondary technician program across the U.S.

To learn more about how you or students in your communities can become trailblazers and pursue these vital career paths, visit RebelliousWine.com/rebelliousriveters.

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5 Tips to Save Money this Summer with Technology

2024-07-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – With summer in full swing, the last thing you want to worry about is overspending on your summer fun. Look for ways to cut back on everyday expenses so that you can use those savings to create memories.

From organizing a movie night to buying new sunglasses for a day at the pool, here are some savings tips to fuel your summer adventures.

Host DIY Nights

Skip going to the theater and create your own movie night from the comfort of your home. With popcorn, a TV and some friends, you can easily turn your space into a memorable watch party experience and save money at the same time.

To step up your DIY game, plan out themed watch parties. Challenge your friends to create gourmet meals as you watch the new season of The Bear or plan a series of baseball-themed competitions as you cheer on your favorite team.

This summer, stream all your favorite series like the Office or Stranger Things. With its debut of Xfinity StreamSaver, which combines Apple TV+, Netflix and Peacock Premium into one low-cost offering, there are many entertainment options from which to choose — you’ll be binge-watching all summer.

Beat the Heat

Stay cool this summer! Call your friends and plan a day at the beach. Or if spending the day in the sun isn’t your style, ditch the heat wave by staying inside and livestreaming a sports game.

No matter how you choose to beat the heat, you’ll stay connected with your family and friends with reliable internet services.

Share with Friends and Family

The best way to cut costs is to share with your loved ones. If you’re in the mood for an ice cream sundae, why not split it with a friend and save money at the same time? Try to make homemade ice cream by looking up a recipe online. By finding ways to share this summer, you’ll also be finding ways to save.

Consider sharing your mobile plan with the family to save costs, like getting two unlimited lines with Xfinity Mobile for only $60/month. Once you have your new mobile phones in hand, do a quick search on “How to cut costs” for additional tips. With access to more than 23 million Xfinity WiFi hotspots, you can get coupons and money-saving shortcuts while on the go. Even with your mobile needs, there are endless ways to share and save.

Go On a Scavenger Hunt

Having reliable mobile service makes it easy to plan your summer adventures. Consult Google to make a bucket list of local hidden gems or try geocaching to find hidden treasures.

Outside of a scavenger hunt, it’s smart to always be on the hunt for rewards programs to save you money. Many chain restaurants and retail stores offer rewards programs to get free products. For Xfinity customers, you can participate in Xfinity Rewards to get deals on movies, theme park experiences, and more.

Travel Light

Forty percent of Americans are planning to travel more this year compared to 2023, according to a survey by Forbes Advisor.

For those planning to travel, pack light to save money on checking your bags at the airport. Focusing on the essentials will make traveling easy (plus you’ll have room to bring back souvenirs).

NOW is another great option for value seekers who only want what is necessary in their internet, TV and mobile services. With no fees or commitment to an annual contract, it’s a great prepaid and affordable option for people who want the basics.

To Sum(mer) It Up

Make the most out of your summer and put your internet, mobile and TV services to work for you. As the days are heating up, so are savings on technology you use every day, which is why you should consider signing up for Comcast’s Xfinity this summer.

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With Time and Planning On Your Side, Financial Goals Can Move Within Reach

2024-07-10T10:53:00

(BPT) – Paying for college, buying a home, entering retirement — these are all significant life events, and they all come at a significant price. But they also come with fair warning. Generally, these types of expenditures are anticipated, often many years in advance, which means they can be planned for and pursued steadily over time.

Everyone has unique circumstances, and the path to achieving a common goal will be unique as well. That said, individuals and families who share a commitment to becoming financially literate and adopting tried-and-true savings strategies tend to have a better chance at achieving big-ticket dreams.

Build a budget

The first step to building savings is to build a budget. This activity involves determining how much money comes in each month and how much goes to necessary expenses, such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, insurance and subscriptions (which can add up quickly and drag on expenses).

The goal is for people to live within their means. Ideally, the budget will also have room for wants and savings, both for an emergency fund and for any other spending goals.

Save automatically

With online banking, individuals can set up automatic payments to cover their bills on time, avoiding costly late fees, and coordinate regular transfers to dedicated interest-bearing savings accounts. By timing these transfers monthly, such as on pay day, the money is moved aside before getting spent.

Additionally, workplace retirement plans are one of the easiest ways to save for the golden years. Contributions are automatic and made with pre-tax dollars, so participants fund their future while lowering their present income tax bill. Many employer-sponsored plans also offer after-tax (ROTH) contribution options. This option has the potential to lower tax bills during retirement since qualified distributions will be tax free.

Don’t leave money on the table

To encourage employees to save, employers often match a portion of contributions to a workplace retirement plan. For example, a company may offer a dollar-for-dollar match up to 6% of salary; a participating employee saving 6% of their pay would receive another 6% from their employer, getting 12% of their salary set aside every month.

Savings can build much faster with an employer’s help, and organizations today are offering a variety of other benefits to help their workers save. Taking full advantage of benefits packages can enable employees to save on healthcare, childcare, commuting and even student loan payments, as well as for retirement.

Start early

For any spending target, from short-term plans like a vacation to long-term plans like a child’s college education, the key is to start saving as soon as the idea germinates. If funds are in an interest-bearing account, they can benefit from interest as it compounds over time, adding to direct contributions.

For goals that are further out, investment accounts may offer greater growth potential. Some college savings plans offer age-based investment options, which automatically become more conservative to protect an account’s value as a child nears their college years. With any investment, it is critical to understand the associated risks before moving forward.

Tap the experts

Managing finances and planning for major savings goals can be challenging, especially when the cost of living has been elevated in recent periods. Some additional perspective and guidance may be helpful, and one place to start is at a community bank.

First Interstate Wealth Management, for instance, has advisors who can help clients access a number of financial calculators and resources to help develop a savings plan, as well as provide information about accounts that may be suitable. With the right tools and support, dreams can become a reality.

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Nearly 2 in 5 Americans say their pets inspire good money habits: new study

2024-07-10T13:21:00

(BPT) – Can your dog help you save? New Empower research shows that Americans associate pet ownership with positive money habits, with 39% of people saying it inspires them to be more financially responsible, and 36% saying it motivates them to reach their financial goals.

Key takeaways

  • More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay.
  • Over half of Americans (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning.
  • 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would take a pay cut for a job with flexible hours so they could spend more time with their pet; 34% of Millennials (30% overall) would turn down a higher paying job to spend more time with their animal companions.
  • 41% say they’d be more likely to return to the office if they could bring their pet to work; 26% say their dream job would offer pawternity leave (time off for getting a new pet).
  • 1 in 5 Gen Zers have a dedicated savings account for their pet’s needs.

The pet effect

The majority of pet owners (94%) consider their four-legged friends part of the family, and more than half (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) report becoming more financially responsible due to owning a pet. Close to a third (31%) saved up for pet expenses before getting one.

About 7 in 10 pet owners want to spoil their animal companions (71%), while almost a third buy things for their pets when they feel guilty about not spending enough time with them (32%). Income may also play a role in pet spending: 42% say the more money they make, the more they splurge on their pets.

What would you do if your pet suddenly needed a trip to the vet? Over three-quarters of Americans (77%) would tap into their savings or emergency fund to pay for an unexpected medical expense. Enrolling in pet insurance is one way to be prepared.

Sit. Stay. Spend.

Americans spent an average of $1,355 on their pets in the past year, and nearly 1 in 5 (19%) plan to spend more in 2024. On average, they spend $1,200 on food and $828 on vet bills each year. As for birthday and holiday pet gifts, Americans say they spend an average of $24 on those occasions.

Dog owners spend an average of 14% more on their pets than cat owners. But what about spending on pets versus people?

One in 3 (33%) pet owners say they buy more things for their pets than themselves, and over 2 in 5 (42%) spent more on their pets than on their closest friends. Some (16%) spent more on their pets than their significant other.

Paws and paychecks

More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay. For some, time is money: 34% of Millennials would decline a higher-paying job if it meant more time away from their pets (30% overall). Another 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would consider a pay cut in exchange for a job that offers flexible hours so they can spend more time with their pets.

People’s love for their pets often extends into their workplace preferences, with 41% of pet owners being more likely to return to the office if allowed to bring their pets.

Access the full report on The Currency™.

Methodology: This study is based on online responses from 1,000 pet owners in American commissioned by Empower from April 11-12, 2024.

RO3696051-0724

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Focus on autoimmune disease: One woman’s journey with Graves’ and thyroid eye disease

2024-07-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Immunovant

Christine Gustafson had always been the picture of health. She swam a mile each day and biked regularly. Then, seemingly overnight, she began experiencing a series of health-related symptoms that would ultimately change her life.

“It started with a racing heartbeat. I was anxious all the time. I started losing weight without explanation. My eyes were also getting very red, painful and irritated,” said Gustafson. “It was hard to comprehend what was going on with my body.”

So began the long, arduous journey of trying to determine the cause of Gustafson’s mysterious symptoms. After months of doctor’s appointments, she was finally diagnosed with two separate, but related, autoimmune diseases — Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease (TED).

A life turned upside down by Graves’ disease

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, organs or cells. Certain autoimmune disorders can be caused by harmful immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies, and are typically chronic, unpredictable and debilitating conditions.

In Graves’ disease, the harmful IgG autoantibodies attack the thyroid and cause it to make more hormones than the body needs. The resulting condition is known as hyperthyroidism.

Gustafson’s doctors said that her thyroid hormone levels were the highest they’d ever seen. Because of that, she experienced many of the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism including rapid heartbeat, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, anxiety, fatigue and muscle weakness.

“I remember the anxiety the most — it was paralyzing. I couldn’t sleep and struggled to go out,” said Gustafson. “I remember thinking — how could this be my life?”

An emotional struggle with TED

About half of people diagnosed with Graves’ disease will also go on to develop TED. In addition to attacking the thyroid, the same harmful autoantibodies bind to thyroid hormone receptors in tissues around the eyes, causing inflammation, pain, double vision, and swollen, bulging eyes.

Over time, Gustafson found that her eyes kept changing and getting worse. Her vision was blurred, and the sunlight was blinding. At one point, she felt that she looked like her eyes were dangling by a thread. But the most challenging aspect was the emotional toll that an ever-changing appearance had on her life.

“I avoided mirrors and cameras and struggled mightily to maintain my self-esteem,” said Gustafson. “I felt isolated, and incredibly alone. I put tremendous effort into not losing myself to Graves’ and TED.”

Forging a path forward

While Graves’ disease and TED are related disorders, they require distinct management approaches. For many people, including Gustafson, it can be a challenging path to navigate.

“I thought the Graves’ medication would help with my eyes, but it didn’t,” said Gustafson. “It took almost four years for me to finally be referred to an eye specialist. Since then, I’ve had seven eye surgeries and, while I’ve seen benefits, there have also been complications.”

Today, Gustafson recommends that people do their research and have informed conversations with their doctors. Clinical research is also actively advancing to identify more and better treatment options for people living with autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease and TED. (To learn more about clinical studies designed to address the complex and variable needs of people living with autoimmune diseases like TED, visit Immunovant.com.)

Gustafson also recommends connecting with others who have been on a similar journey, something that she helps foster through the work of her nonprofit, the TED Community Organization.

“My hope is for more education around Graves’ and TED, increased awareness in the healthcare community and innovation to address the needs of people living with these autoimmune conditions,” said Gustafson.

Editor’s note: The rising prevalence of autoimmune disease is a concerning trend that underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, education and research. Data indicates that autoimmune diseases affect approximately 50 million Americans. Even more alarming, autoimmunity is reaching epidemic levels, with some studies estimating an increase of 3-12% annually (Source: Autoimmune Association).

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Why it’s important to start talking about inflammation and heart disease

2024-07-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that cholesterol and inflammation are partners in causing heart attack and stroke? Inflammation is your body’s internal fight against harmful conditions, but if it’s on overtime, it can cause its own harm. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with heart disease, you may want to talk to your doctor about the role of cardiovascular inflammation — and what you can do about it.

Because heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S.,[1] it’s vital for those with risk factors for cardiovascular (CV) disease to learn how they may be able to help prevent a significant cardiac event like a heart attack or stroke from happening to them. A recent study demonstrated that among people already taking cholesterol-lowering statins, residual vascular inflammation strongly predicts future CV events — perhaps even more than high cholesterol.[2]

Data from many peer-reviewed publications confirm that patients at high risk who are already using statins may benefit from additional anti-inflammatory therapy to further reduce their risk of cardiac and stroke events. Until now, there have only been approved therapies to treat high cholesterol risk — which do not address remaining vascular inflammation. Reducing inflammation may be key to further lowering the risk of heart attack, which over 800,000 Americans with CV disease may face this year.[1]

Why inflammation is so crucial

Heart attacks are caused by blocked blood flow to the heart, while strokes are caused by blocked blood flow to the brain. Inflammation plays a critical role in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), a condition where arteries become narrowed and hardened due to buildup of a substance called plaque which can lead to reduced blood flow and blood clots, resulting in heart attacks and strokes.[3] Because of this, people with ASCVD are at high risk for acute cardiovascular events.[4] Inflammation is a partner with high cholesterol in forming plaque, which contributes to the development and progression of ASCVD.[5]

How to reduce CV inflammation

To find out whether inflammation is a risk for you, the first step is getting tested. A simple blood test to determine the level of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), which is a biomarker for inflammation, can be measured in your blood and gives you an idea of your risk of heart disease.

If this test finds that your hs-CRP level is higher than normal, the next step is to reduce it. One treatment option includes low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg, a once-daily, single oral anti-inflammatory tablet shown to reduce the risk of a major event, including heart attack or stroke.

“Inflammation has been known to cause heart attacks and strokes for years, and low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg is a major advance in treating people with cardiovascular inflammation,” said Philip Nimoityn, M.D., FACC, clinical cardiologist at Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia at Jefferson and attending physician at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. “With the potential to save millions of lives, low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg, is proven to reduce the risk of cardiac events, including heart attack and stroke, in patients with established cardiovascular disease by 31%.”

If you’ve been diagnosed with ASCVD, or you have multiple risk factors for ASCVD, you may be suffering from untreated CV inflammation. To help reduce this damaging inflammation and lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke, ask your doctor about getting tested for hs-CRP, and about new anti-inflammatory treatment options such as low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg.

Learn more about your risk and steps you can take to support your cardiac health at CVDInflammation.com.

[1] Heart disease facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published May 15, 2024. Accessed June 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/data-research/facts-stats/index.html.

[2] Ridker PM, Bhatt DL, Pradhan AD, et al. Inflammation and cholesterol as predictors of cardiovascular events among patients receiving statin therapy: a collaborative analysis of three randomised trials. Lancet (London, England). 2023;401(10384):1293-1301. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00215-5

[3] What is atherosclerosis? American Heart Association. Published April 3, 2023. Accessed June 20, 2024. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/atherosclerosis.

[4] Trier van, Marjolein Snaterse, Hageman SHJ, et al. Unexploited potential of risk factor treatment in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Published online February 9, 2023. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/eurjpc/zwad038

[5] Libby P, Ridker PM, Hansson GK. Progress and challenges in translating the biology of atherosclerosis. Nature. 2011;473(7347):317-25. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/nature10146