Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-10-22T08:21:00

(BPT) – Stomach pain, nausea and brain fog can be uncomfortable to experience. Imagine living with these symptoms every day without knowing their cause or being able to manage and rid yourself of them.

This was Aaron’s experience; he spent decades living with debilitating, daily pain — sometimes so severe he needed to be hospitalized — before finally receiving an accurate medical diagnosis. Now, Aaron knows that he is living with familial chylomicronemia syndrome, or FCS, which is a rare, genetic condition that can lead to potentially life-threatening acute pancreatitis (painful inflammation of the pancreas.)

Journey to diagnosis

“As a young kid, I would battle stomach pain so intense that it would cause me to miss school for weeks at a time,” Aaron shares. He saw doctor after doctor and was repeatedly told to “eat better and exercise more.”

“I tried five different types of diets and kept food journals to show my doctors I was following their advice. But I still found no relief — I’d have excruciating, crippling pain for four or five straight days over and over again with no relief.” This lasted for decades.

Aaron finally received an answer at age 36 when he was diagnosed with FCS.

Understanding FCS

During a doctor’s appointment with a specialist, Aaron was told his triglyceride levels — a type of fat that the body uses as a source of energy — had been over 1,200 mg/dL since his childhood. While healthy levels for adults are typically below 150 mg/dL, levels higher than 500 mg/dL are a sign of a common condition called severe hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG), which can lead to health complications such as damage to the pancreas.

Triglyceride levels of more than 880 mg/dL — like Aaron experiences — may be an indication of FCS, a rare, genetic form of sHTG. In addition to the risk of potentially life-threatening acute pancreatitis, people living with FCS also experience chronic health issues such as fatigue, brain fog and severe, recurrent abdominal pain.

After 36 years of struggle, Aaron’s diagnosis helped him make sense of his lifelong symptoms. “The first thing I felt upon receiving my diagnosis was validation that my pain had a real, medical cause.”

Living with FCS

FCS can be associated with physical, mental, emotional and financial burdens, which can cause people to feel overwhelmed and have a significant impact on their quality of life. “On my best days, I feel like I have the flu — body aches, nausea, diarrhea, headache and a foggy brain. On my worst days, I’m hospitalized for two to three weeks with pancreatitis,” explains Aaron.

To help manage symptoms, people living with FCS must adhere to an extremely strict diet. This involves limiting daily fat intake to less than 15 to 20 grams — that’s roughly equal to just one tablespoon of olive oil per day. “I’ve had to learn to adjust my social life so that events don’t always revolve around food, and the unfortunate reality is that I just may not be able to participate,” says Aaron.

Raising awareness and aiding in earlier diagnosis of this rare disease is important to Aaron. His hope for the future is that people living with FCS don’t feel the loneliness he lived with for too long. “I’ve made a conscious decision to not let having FCS control my outlook on life. I choose to be happy, and my hope in sharing my story is to normalize FCS so that the next person may not have to wait 36 years to find a diagnosis and won’t feel so alone.”

The article shares the story of one person and may not be representative of all patient journeys. If you have questions about your health, speak with your doctor. To learn more about FCS and helpful resources, including taking a signs and symptoms quiz that can provide useful information to guide your discussion with a doctor, visit www.KnowYourTGs.com.

1. Moulin P, Dufour R, Averna M, et al. Identification and diagnosis of patients with familial chylomicronaemia syndrome (FCS): Expert panel recommendations and proposal of an “FCS score”. Atherosclerosis. 2018;275:265-272.
2. Chyzhyk V, Brown AS. Familial chylomicronemia syndrome: A rare but devastating autosomal recessive disorder characterized by refractory hypertriglyceridemia and recurrent pancreatitis. Trends Cardiovasc Med. 2020;30(2):80-85.
3. Christian JB, Bourgeois N, Snipes R, Lowe KA. Prevalence of severe (500 to 2,000 mg/dl) hypertriglyceridemia in United States adults. Am J Cardiol. 2011;107(6):891-897.
4. Davidson M, Stevenson M, Hsieh A, et al. The burden of familial chylomicronemia syndrome: Results from the global IN-FOCUS study. J Clin Lipidol. 2018;12(4):898-907.e2.

2024-10-22T12:35:00

(BPT) – Thinking about upgrading your home’s HVAC system with a new heat pump? It’s the perfect time to add or upgrade your home’s insulation, too.

These two projects not only work together to help you maximize comfort and savings, they’re also eligible for substantial financial incentives thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act to help lower the cost of these upgrades. With federal tax credits, generous utility rebates, and state rebates, you can combine these different savings to significantly lower costs on top of energy savings.

Both projects are part of an ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade — a set of high-impact improvements that work together to help you live comfortably and maximize your energy savings. And the savings from these two projects can really add up. For the average American household, almost half of the annual energy bill goes toward heating and cooling — approximately $900 a year. Finding ways to efficiently heat and cool your home is key to reducing energy usage and saving money year-round.

Why a heat pump? ENERGY STAR certified heat pump HVAC is so efficient it can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes. It’s a little mind-blowing when you think about it. This is possible because a heat pump moves heat rather than converting it from a fuel, as combustion heating systems do. That’s why the federal government is offering these credits and rebates — this technology offers superior efficiency that allows households to save significant energy and money, while also being a better choice for the environment.

A heat pump also cools

It’s a common misconception that heat pumps only provide heat. Not true! Despite the misleading name, heat pumps do double duty with both heating and cooling and are becoming a more popular solution in the U.S. due to their superior energy efficiency. It makes sense to combine the project with air sealing and adding insulation — you’ll get the most savings and comfort with that one-two punch.

By sealing air leaks and improving the insulation in your home, the new heat pump won’t need to work as hard to regulate temperatures, which helps make your home more comfortable while reducing energy usage and increasing your savings. Adding to or enhancing your attic insulation levels may also allow you to choose a smaller, less expensive heat pump.

ENERGY STAR certified ducted and mini-split heat pumps are available from a variety of manufacturers. Not sure where to start? ENERGY STAR offers online guidance to help customers, contractors, remodelers, or builders find heat pumps that qualify for these incentives.

Adding insulation? Start with the attic

It’s wise to focus on your attic’s insulation because it will help keep your house comfortable all year long. Here’s how:

In the winter, as your system is warming your house, the heat rises. If there are holes in the attic floor and low insulation levels, that warm air will rise right out of the top of the house. Sealing air leaks and adding insulation in the attic can hold that warm air in and insulate from the cold outdoor air.

In summer, the sun beats down on the roof, overheating the air in the attic. That heat radiates down into your home, making it harder to cool. Adding a good amount of insulation in the attic prevents that heat from getting into the house, which increases comfort and reduces cooling costs.

Since attics are often unfinished, insulation is typically easy and inexpensive to add there. In many homes, sealing air leaks in the attic and insulating the attic floor are the best ways to improve the home envelope cost-effectively.

Don’t forget your ductwork

Since airflow is essential to the HVAC system, improving ductwork when installing a new system is common sense. While you’re in the attic adding insulation, make sure to inspect those ducts. Sealing, straightening, reconnecting and repairing holes in ducts can significantly improve the performance of the heating and cooling system. Adding insulation around the ducts that run through hot attics can also improve performance and energy savings.

ENERGY STAR has you covered

ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $500 billion in energy costs and achieve more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions. Visit energystar.gov/homesavings to find available savings on energy saving upgrades in your area.

2024-10-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are such a delicious time of year. Halloween candy can last until Thanksgiving, the whole house smells of baking cookies, and chocolates and other sweet treats can be found around the house. It’s also respiratory virus season, when families will typically stock up on medicines to treat those runny noses, coughs and aches. For parents, grandparents, and other caregivers, it’s especially important to realize that kids can confuse medicines, vitamins, and other supplements for candy.

Each year, approximately 35,000 children are brought to hospital emergency rooms after they find and get into medicines that are left within their sight and reach. Many medicines and supplements — including those in gummy form — can look like candy, and it can be difficult for young children (and even adults) to tell the difference.

It’s important to teach young children that medicine is not candy and that they should never take medicines on their own. The Up and Away Campaign is a safe medicine storage initiative, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in partnership with the Health In Hand Foundation, to help prevent unintentional medication overdoses in young children. It’s about always putting medicines, vitamins, and other supplements, including those in gummy form, “up and away,” where kids can’t reach or see them.

Here are eight important tips from the Up and Away Campaign to help parents, grandparents, and other caregivers keep young children safe:

1. Pick a place your children cannot reach. Find a place in your home that is too high for children to reach or see. Different families will have different places. Walk around your home and find the best place to keep your medicines, vitamins, and other supplements — including those in gummy form — up and away, even between doses.

2. Never leave medicine by a child’s bedside. If your child is ill and needs doses every few hours, it might be tempting to leave the medicine in handy reach. Put it up and away instead.

3. Mind your purse or bag. Make sure that medicines carried with you (in purses, bags, pockets, or pill organizers) are also kept out of sight and reach of young children.

4. Never leave loose pills or liquid medicines out on a counter, table or child’s bedside. To a young child, pills can look like candy and liquid medicines can look like sugary drinks, so it’s important to keep them out of children’s reach and sight.

5. Keep medicines in child-resistant containers. Always relock the safety cap on a medicine bottle. If the medicine has a locking cap that turns, twist it until you can’t twist anymore or hear the “click.” If you must put medicines in other containers, such as pill organizers, check to see if they have child-resistant features. Many do not and can be easily opened by young children.

6. Teach your children about medicine safety. It’s important to teach your children what medicine is and why you or another trusted caregiver must be the one to give it to them. Never tell children medicine is candy, even if they don’t like to take their medicine.

7. Remind guests and babysitters to keep purses, bags or coats that have medicines in them up and away and out of sight when they’re in your home. If you bring medicines with you to a home with young children, don’t be shy about asking for a place to put your medicines that is out of reach and sight of curious young kids.

8. Be prepared for an emergency. Call Poison Help at 800.222.1222 right away if you think your child might have gotten into a medicine, vitamin, or other supplement (including those in gummy form), even if you are not completely sure. Before you need it, make a contact for Poison Help in your phone so it’s ready in an emergency.

For more information, resources and help, visit https://upandaway.org/en/.

2024-10-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

Life often brings surprises, and many can be welcome. However, sometimes being caught off guard can be scary or overwhelming. This is especially true when it comes to your health, for example receiving an unexpected diagnosis like that of type 1 diabetes.

People often find out they have type 1 diabetes when they are in a later stage (stage 3) of the disease, which is when clinical symptoms begin to occur. In stage three, the body is no longer able to make enough or any insulin which causes blood sugar levels to rise much higher than the normal range. What happens next is lifelong dependence on insulin injections to maintain target blood sugar levels — and it may carry a heavy burden for individuals and their families alike.

Karim Jones and her family know this feeling all too well. Unknowingly, Jones’ daughter was experiencing tell-tale symptoms of type 1 diabetes, including extreme thirst, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. When they went to the doctor, Jones remembered a previous conversation she had with a friend and asked the doctor to test her daughter for type 1 diabetes. It turned out her daughter not only had type 1 diabetes, but she was also in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes.

Jones immediately received a deluge of information about managing her daughter’s blood sugar levels, the impact of diet, insulin dosing, and more, which made her feel overwhelmed and uncertain. When the stakes are as high as supporting a child’s health, more time to learn how to manage the disease can be extremely valuable. Early detection of type 1 diabetes is possible through screening and this advanced information can provide time to prepare for the future — but early screening for type 1 diabetes is relatively uncommon prior to diagnosis due largely to a lack of awareness. The1Pledge.com has more information on why early screening can be important.

“Knowing in advance, even by just one month, would have made an important difference for our entire family and given us the time to prepare in a way that wasn’t so rushed,” Jones shares. “Type 1 diabetes management requires countless extra decisions each day that I’m responsible for as a caregiver. It’s on me to manage my daughter’s health, and the mental load that goes along with that responsibility is one of the hardest parts.”

Indeed, advanced notice through a blood test that can detect type 1 diabetes-related autoantibodies early can help families in a multitude of ways, including but not limited to:

• Building a multidisciplinary care team of doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and other supportive healthcare providers to meet with (typically every 3-6 months).
• Learning more about the disease from that care team to better recognize symptoms when they do arise (stage 3) and potentially reducing the risk of going through DKA by up to 50%.
• Developing the skills needed to manage the disease, in the face of up to 10 finger pricks per day to measure blood sugar and an estimated 1,460 insulin injections each year.

“My husband and I agreed that we never wanted to be caught off guard like that again, so after my daughter was diagnosed, our whole family got screened, including our other three children,” Jones notes. “As a parent, you would do anything for your kids, and when I learned screening was an option after my daughter’s diagnosis, I wasn’t going to miss out on an opportunity to know if my family was at risk. Before we got the family screened, I felt like I was living in fear, worried that if my child was thirsty, it might be a red flag; now that we’ve gotten the kids screened, I feel better informed.”

Jones continued: “As a mother who has lived through an unexpected diagnosis, I believe everyone should get screened. About 90% of people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes do not have a family history of the disease, which was the case for my daughter. If it’s fear of knowing that’s stopping you from getting screened, hear me when I say that you don’t want to get to a point where your child is experiencing DKA — that is much, much scarier. Knowing in advance may make a difference for your family.”

Talk to your doctor about screening for type 1 diabetes.

Sanofi does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment — information is provided for educational purposes only. Your doctor is the best source of health information. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your health or treatment.

Karim Jones is a paid spokesperson for Sanofi.

2024-10-22T00:01:00

(BPT) – Obtaining necessary care in today’s financial and healthcare landscape can be a daunting challenge for many U.S. families. According to the 2023 Milliman Medical Index, a family of four covered by an employer-provided preferred provider organization (PPO) would spend $31,065 a year.

For folks without access to employer-provided health insurance, affording a plan can be cost-prohibitive, and many may choose to risk being uninsured. Should the worst occur, these individuals may face insurmountable healthcare debt. However, there is an accessible and affordable alternative to traditional health insurance that can help reduce healthcare costs.

Impact Health Sharing — a not-for-profit, non-insurance alternative to the high cost of health insurance — believes you should be an informed and educated advocate in your healthcare. That’s why it’s on a mission to raise awareness of healthcare sharing as another option for families.

What is healthcare sharing?

Healthcare sharing isn’t insurance. It’s a caring community of members who share their financial resources to pay for each other’s eligible medical expenses. Participating in a healthcare-sharing plan can provide peace of mind, financial protection and access to a network of individuals who understand and value the importance of maintaining a healthy living.

Healthcare-sharing plans may be a good option for some people, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. When deciding if healthcare sharing is right for you, ask yourself the following three questions.

1. What are my family’s healthcare needs?

Before you choose any healthcare plan or program, you’ll need to assess your family’s unique healthcare needs.

Do you have frequent doctor visits? Does anyone have ongoing medical conditions? Are there other healthcare services your family uses regularly? These are important considerations that can help you determine the best health plan for your family.

2. What is my financial situation?

Your budget may limit the type of healthcare plan you can comfortably afford. Without an employer- or government-provided health insurance plan, you may have to pay exorbitant premiums just to access a healthcare plan. Even if you can afford a plan, you may find the copays and deductibles to be cost-prohibitive.

Healthcare sharing is a great option if you don’t have access to insurance through an employer or government program or if you aren’t eligible for a tax subsidy. A health-share plan can reduce the financial burden of healthcare. Most members of Impact Health, for example, save 30-50% over the cost of their previous health insurance plan.

3. How does healthcare sharing align with my values?

Health-sharing plans are based on the belief that neighbors should care for each other in times of need. If you share this belief, a healthcare sharing organization may be a great option.

Traditionally, healthcare-sharing programs have been Christian-based and may require members to have a pastor or other similar church leader vouch for their membership. This has resulted in limited access to individuals from other faiths or beliefs.

By design, Impact is one of the first healthcare-sharing organizations that welcomes people of all religious faiths or creeds into their sharing community. If you believe that neighbors should take care of one another, then you are welcome to enroll in the Impact Health Sharing community.

Embracing all people isn’t the only thing that sets Impact apart from other healthcare-sharing organizations. Other benefits include:

• No provider network or doctor limitations. Members use the healthcare providers they choose.
• Preventative care and chiropractic adjustments as eligible expenses.
• A comprehensive medical experience and access to preventative care, mental healthcare, prescription discounts and urgent care telemedicine available 24/7.

Are you ready to discover an alternative to traditional health insurance? To learn more about healthcare sharing, visit ImpactHealthSharing.com.

2024-10-21T11:31:00

(BPT) – By Oh Sai-kee, Head of LG Electronics Home Appliance and Air Solution R&D Center

As smart home and electrification technologies emerge as key trends in the home appliance sector, we are seeing an industry-wide shift away from simple product sales to a more service-oriented business model.

Smart home technology simplifies the management of complex devices through a range of helpful automation features. By utilizing insights gained from home appliances and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, the latest smart home tech can better understand customers’ lifestyles and needs. This, in turn, enables the delivery of proactive, tailored services that reduce the burden of household chores. As the technology advances, we move closer to the realization of what LG calls the Zero Labor Home.

Smart home solutions have become a major focus not only for appliance manufacturers but also for IoT, telecommunications, construction and big tech companies. The introduction of smart home standards or protocols, such as Matter,¹ is enhancing connectivity between appliances, IoT devices and home systems. Moreover, generative artificial intelligence (AI) and ambient computing² technologies are making it possible for users to control devices and services through voice commands alone, saving them time and making life at home far more convenient.

One of the leaders in this space, LG recently introduced its latest AI Home solution, offering users the ability to control their home appliances and IoT devices through conversational voice commands. FURON, LG’s generative AI agent and the brain of the AI Home, is able to learn and remember users’ preferences for various devices and apply the appropriate settings in the given situation. Furthermore, LG AI Home connects seamlessly with appliances and IoT devices from a growing number of global brands and integrates flawlessly with various types of apps through ThinQ ON, LG’s AI home hub. The company is continuing to expand its AI Home ecosystem to offer users a broader range of smart home solutions and services.

The transition from fossil fuel to electricity-powered products is a significant global trend — one that is expected to accelerate due to the enforcement of international regulations aimed at mitigating global warming. Boilers are rapidly being replaced by heat pump heating systems, gas ranges by induction cooktops and gas dryers by heat pump dryers. Against this backdrop, LG is actively strengthening its research and development (R&D) programs to discover more efficient and reliable heat pump technologies. These efforts include the recent completion of the company’s “global R&D triangle” to create specialized solutions for cold climates, and the hosting of the Global Heat Pump Consortium, which was founded by LG in collaboration with international universities.

Moving forward, electrification technology will evolve into smart home energy solutions that optimize energy generation, storage and usage within the home. Ultimately, this evolution will give rise to living environments whose occupants can enjoy convenient cooking, heating and cooling — and a dependable supply of hot water — while simultaneously reducing household energy consumption and environmental impacts.

Known for its expertise in smart life solutions, LG has always emphasized the importance of innovation. LG’s core technologies, including the linear compressor (refrigerators), Direct Drive motor and TrueSteam™ technology (washing machines, Styler) and dual rotary and scroll compressors (air conditioners), have played a crucial role in the company’s rise to leadership in the global home appliance market. Looking ahead, the role of LG’s R&D division will be even more vital in discovering new electrification and smart home technologies. Through a commitment to excellence and a spirit of inquiry, LG will continue to lead the way to a better future.

¹ A smart home and IoT device connectivity standard developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). Matter enables seamless interoperability between smart devices and platforms from diverse ecosystems.

² Ambient computing refers to technology that is able to operate invisibly in the background, blending into the environment and working automatically without users noticing its presence. Also referred to as “invisible computing” or “disappearing computing.”

2024-10-21T12:04:28

(BPT) – With AI and cybersecurity threats regularly in the news, you may wonder how this might affect your home network and personal devices. According to the Comcast Business 2024 Cybersecurity Threat Report, phishing remains the primary method used by attackers to access networks, and over 90% of the 2.6 billion phishing interactions Comcast Business blocked were designed to direct victims to sites hosting malware — any malicious program or code designed to invade networks and devices. These attempts threaten businesses and consumers alike, because breaches ultimately expose consumer information to bad actors.

“Armed with a newfound arsenal of AI-based capabilities and a landscape littered with vulnerable systems, cybercriminals are having a moment,” said Comcast’s Chief Information Security and Product Privacy Officer, Noopur Davis.

The good news? Companies like Comcast also use AI to fight against bad actors. Last year alone, Comcast Business detected 29 billion attempted cybersecurity attacks against its customers relying on its security portfolio. To combat the technological advancements used by cybercriminals, a multi-layered approach combining advanced protection, detection, managed services and vigilant security practices helps companies protect their networks — and their customers — against increasingly sophisticated threats.

What companies are doing

Consumers should know that many businesses work 24/7 to protect their own networks, plus the private information of their customers. This behind-the-scenes work mitigates security breaches without the end user ever noticing. Here are a few tactics Comcast Business uses to protect businesses of all sizes from cyberthreats:

Phishing, a common entry point for cyberthreats, is thwarted by robust anti-phishing technologies, user education and email gateway platforms.

Lateral movement techniques, like stolen credentials, are used by cybercriminals to navigate networks once they’re inside a system. IT staff depend on Comcast Business’ cybersecurity countermeasures to identify threats by monitoring network activity for anomalies in user behavior. They use AI coupled with human expertise to detect, remove and remediate malware, phishing and ransomware attempts.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks attempt to disrupt a company’s network, leaving it vulnerable to attack. Comcast Business blocked over 1 billion attempts to destroy data last year, including over 126 million instances of malware or botnets aimed at financial theft.

Read more about cyberthreats to businesses here.

How consumers can help

While businesses do their part to protect customer data, consumers also need to remain vigilant. Here are steps you can take to further safeguard your devices and accounts.

Embrace multi-factor authentication (MFA). It may seem annoying to have a code sent to your phone or email when you’re accessing an online account, but it’s worthwhile for the added protection it gives you. The additional steps required by multi-factor authentication make it harder for criminals to breach your accounts.

Guard against phishing. Sophisticated phishing attempts try to trick you to visit a fraudulent website, provide sensitive information or send money to someone claiming to be a business you know, or even a friend or family member. If you get an email or text you’re unsure of, doublecheck the return email address and you may notice it doesn’t look right. Go straight to the sender’s website instead of the link from an email or text.

Learn about callback phishing. Email phishing scams typically contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal sensitive information or install malware on your device. These emails are often blocked by Comcast’s security solutions. With callback phishing, criminals include a phone number to call instead, claiming an urgent issue needs your attention. When you call the number, a person or voice message tries to trick you into revealing your credit card number, Social Security number or login credentials. Cybercriminals spoof phone numbers and company logos to make emails look legitimate.

If you receive an email requesting that you call back:

• Never call phone numbers from an email. Go to the company’s official website to find their contact information or customer service number.
• Beware of “urgent” emails. Callback phishing tries to pressure you to take immediate action. Attackers may use threats or promise rewards to persuade you.
• Guard your sensitive or personal info. Never offer your passwords, Social Security numbers or financial details over the phone unless you’ve verified the identity of the person you’re speaking to. Legitimate organizations don’t usually request sensitive information over the phone without prior authentication.

Remember, Comcast teammates will:

NEVER call you from 1-800-Comcast or 1-800-Xfinity.

NEVER ask you to provide your account login, password or Multi-Factor Authentication credentials.

NEVER ask you to download and install tools or software, unless you initiated a request.

Above all, trust your instincts. If something seems off, double-check by going straight to the source to confirm whether an email, text or call is legitimate.

Boost your passwords. Frequently changing your passwords is a vital safeguard against security breaches. Choose strong passwords unique to each account that you haven’t used before. Don’t include personal info as part of your password, such as your birthdate or kids’ names. Many cybersecurity experts recommend using a password manager.

For National Cybersecurity Awareness Month this year, take extra care in how you shop and conduct financial transactions online, and pause before responding to emails to safeguard your devices, your accounts and your home network.

2024-10-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that spending extended time hunched over your phone can take a serious toll on your neck? Commonly referred to as ‘tech neck’ or ‘text neck,’ this habit can lead to the appearance of deep lines, wrinkles and even sagging skin on your neck. The delicate skin on your neck is particularly prone to showing signs of aging prematurely — and constant hunching only accelerates the process.

The skin on your neck is about four times thinner than the skin on your face, so it quickly shows signs of excess sun exposure, premature aging and ‘tech neck. It’s also highly visible skin, so unless you want to wear turtlenecks the rest of your life, you’ll want to take better care of this fragile skin.

While you may not give up your cell phone, you can take steps to protect and improve the skin on your neck so you can look and feel your best.

1. Watch your posture

How often do you find yourself looking at your phone? Have you ever tracked it? It might be time for a reality check: Most smartphones and tablets allow you to monitor your daily screen time under “settings.” You’ll be surprised by how quickly those minutes accumulate into hours.

Consider setting a timer each time you check your text messages or social media to limit the time spent in this posture — or try checking your phone only at certain times. Additionally, hold your phone higher, closer to eye level, to avoid straining your neck and hunching your shoulders. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.

2. Harness the power of Retinol

Looking for a non-invasive way to lift and firm your neck? Your best bet is Retinol, and RoC Skincare has made it even easier with their new Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick. This innovative product combines their well-known Retinol in a convenient new stick format, firming skin and combatting lines and wrinkles with a simple swipe.

Developed with dermatologists and plastic surgeons, this Firming Serum Stick massages Retinol, antioxidants and firming THPE directly into the skin on your neck, face, chest, and back of hands for both immediate and lasting results. Clinically proven to visibly firm and correct the lines caused by tech neck, it leaves skin looking smoother and feeling refreshed.

“We all want the benefits of Retinol but with instant results too,” says Dr. Prem Tripathi, Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon. “The convenience of the stick format paired with the effectiveness of RoC’s Retinol and THPE makes it ideal for anyone looking to instantly tighten skin and maintain results long term”

Find RoC Skincare Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick at Target.

3. Go easy on sun exposure

While it’s well known that prolonged sun exposure can be harsh on your skin, it’s easy to forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas. Next time you’re outdoors, remember to apply SPF 30+ not only on your face but also on your neck, chest, and hands — areas of delicate skin that tend to show signs of aging.

Incorporating these simple steps into your routine can help combat the effects of tech neck and enhance the overall appearance of your skin, boosting your confidence to look and feel your best, every day.

2024-10-21T05:01:00

(BPT) – Your teenager just got his or her driver’s license — congratulations! Having another driver in the family can be a big help to parents. You no longer have to ferry your child to activities and lessons, and your newly minted driver can help shuttle around younger kids in the family. Did you forget an ingredient for dinner? Now you can send your teen to the grocery store! But with all the excitement also comes worry. If you’re like many parents, you don’t rest easy until the car safely pulls back into your driveway.

That worry is not unfounded. According to the United States Department of Transportation, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for kids between the ages of 15 and 18 in this country — new drivers, in other words. There are a lot of dangers out there on the road, including weather, other drivers and accidents just waiting to happen. Most of it is beyond your control. That’s why it’s vital to do what you can to keep your child safe when he or she is behind the wheel, and it all starts with the car they’re driving.

How do you choose the best car for your teen driver? A flashy car may be great for a kid’s ego, but when it comes to teen driving, safety is the most important concern. And because no family budget is the same, rest assured that quality safety features can be found at a variety of price points. Here are some tips on choosing the best car for your new teen driver, from the pros at Kelley Blue Book.

Safety features are essential. Whether you’re shopping for a new or used car, look for models equipped with these recommended must-haves:

• Front, side and curtain airbags to protect the driver and passengers during collisions.
• Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) prevent wheels from locking up during braking, thereby helping your teen maintain control of the vehicle.
• Backup cameras make it safer when going in reverse.
• Blind spot alerts and monitoring systems warn drivers when vehicles are in their blind spots.
• Lane departure alerts warn drivers when they’re veering out of their lane.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) monitors the car’s steering, wheel speed and acceleration to prevent skids and loss of traction.
• Forward collision warning works with front automatic braking to monitor what’s in front of the car and your speed. If it senses an imminent crash, it sounds an alert; if the driver doesn’t respond, it automatically applies the brakes.

Avoid certain types of cars. Tiny city cars may be popular for their lower price point and great gas mileage, but they simply do not provide as much protection in a crash as a sedan or small SUV. On the opposite end of the spectrum, large SUVs or pickup trucks may provide “more car” around your teen, but they may be too big for your teen to handle and difficult to park — not to mention, the fuel economy issue. High-horsepower cars may be a thrilling idea for some teens, but usually increased horsepower translates into higher insurance premiums and more opportunities for trouble.

Consider key safety and crash-test ratings. Kelley Blue Book incorporates data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) into their picks for the best cars for teens.

Rely on Kelley Blue Book research. Let the pros guide your research and offer their expert recommendations. Every year, Kelley Blue Book announces its picks for the best new and used cars for teens from a variety of different price points. Here’s their list for 2024.

Kelley Blue Book’s Best New Cars for Teens Under $30,000

1. 2024 Toyota Prius

2. 2025 Honda Civic

3. 2024 Toyota Corolla

4. 2025 Kia Seltos

5. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

6. 2025 Hyundai Kona

7. 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer

8. 2025 Nissan Kicks

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Used Cars for Teens Under $20,000

1. 2017 Toyota RAV4

2. 2018 Mazda CX-5

3. 2017 Honda CR-V

4. 2020 Toyota Corolla

5. 2019 Mazda3

6. 2017 Honda Accord

7. 2017 Toyota Prius

8. 2018 Kia Sportage

9. 2020 Honda Civic

10. 2019 Chevrolet Equinox

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Used Cars for Teens Under $15,000

1. 2018 Kia Sportage

2. 2019 Kia Soul

3. 2017 Toyota Corolla

4. 2018 Mazda3

5. 2016 Honda CR-V

6. 2016 Mazda CX-5

7. 2015 Toyota Prius

8. 2013 Honda Accord

9. 2013 Toyota Camry

10. 2015 Honda Civic

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Used Cars for Teens Under $10,000

1. 2014 Mazda3

2. 2013 Toyota Corolla

3. 2009 Toyota RAV4

4. 2010 Honda Element

5. 2011 Toyota Avalon

With this expert research, you can choose the safest car for your new driver within your family’s budget.

2024-10-18T13:47:00

(BPT) – In the fall, California’s Napa Valley transforms from lush, green vineyards and rolling hills into a stunning landscape of vibrant reds, deep oranges and rich yellows, all set against the bright, blue sky. As the leaves change color, the air becomes crisp and cool, creating a breathtaking backdrop to Napa’s quiet season.

The end of autumn’s harvest season affords Napa visitors a more intimate experience, a chance to explore the magic of the valley without the summer crowds. It is a time to take in Napa’s rich culture with harvest festivals, seasonal culinary offerings and scenic drives through the valley.

Here are the best places to stay, dine and unwind in Napa Valley this fall.

Winery tours. Vineyards are the heart and soul of Napa Valley, and a visit to the area is not complete without taking in its storied wine history. The gorgeous, welcoming vineyards of Cakebread Cellars are the perfect place to find it. From November to February, this over 50-year-old, family-owned winery provides a serene, personal experience with fewer visitors, allowing guests to connect more deeply with its rich legacy of quality, sustainability and innovation. Tours they provide:

The Cakebread Classic Tour, their signature tasting experience, guides visitors through the winery for a 45-minute tour, interspersed with tastings of Cakebread’s premium wines.

The Sustainable Wines and Vines Tour showcases Cakebread Cellars’ commitment to sustainability in their organic farming, winemaking practices and the construction of winery buildings using reclaimed materials.

The Perfect Pair Wine and Food Tasting allows you to experience the winery’s top wine varietals alongside Napa’s autumn bounty, reflecting its culinary roots and on-site garden through food-friendly pairings.

Luxury accommodations. A beautiful hotel experience is half the fun of a trip, and there are many resorts in Napa that provide luxurious and serene surroundings to enhance your visit. Stanly Ranch and Carneros Inn and Spa are located near downtown Napa, offering a peaceful and lovely retreat after your day’s adventures. When you visit during the fall, you can relish a premium stay without the premium price tag since hotel rooms can be up to 40% cheaper in the off-season.

Fine dining. Many restaurants in Napa Valley celebrate wine culture, from Mustards Grill with its 30-year tradition of “honest American fare with worldly sophistication, washed down with a glass of the valley’s finest,” to the elegant Brix Restaurant, with its focus on farm-to-table dining inspired by the traditions of Northern California. With smaller crowds, reservations are abundant, so no need to brave the long lines to visit your favorite Napa spot.

Hot air balloon rides. Called a “nature walk in the sky,” Napa’s long tradition of hot air ballooning gives guests a truly breathtaking way to see the valley’s striking landscape, bursting with vibrant fall colors. Tours begin at dawn, allowing you to float serenely through the air as you watch the sun rise.

Hiking. In Napa, you’ll find rugged mountain ranges, redwood forests, lakes and streams. Fall’s mild weather and vibrant hues create the perfect backdrop for guests looking to stretch their legs in the outdoors. From state parks to local trails with vineyard views, there is an excursion for every skill level. With the cooler temperatures in the fall, you won’t be hiking in the heat!

Hot springs. Unique to Napa Valley’s Calistoga region, underground hot springs feed geothermal mineral pools, infusing them with healing elements that soothe the body and mind. Step out of the crisp autumn air and book a day pass at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs to soak in the pools, which contain zinc, magnesium, calcium and bromine that relax sore muscles. It feels especially soothing to soak in the warm water on a cool day.

As the leaves change, Napa Valley is awash in color. Visit during this fleeting time of year and make the most of harvest season in Northern California.