Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-01-12T12:01:00

(BPT) – Technology has revolutionized how we live, work and entertain ourselves, and tech makers continue to push the envelope year after year. At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES), innovators like Anker will showcase the latest tech items that can enhance daily life. Whether you’re a tech head or someone looking for an upgrade, check out these essential tech items for 2024.

1. Charging stations and power banks

Stay connected whenever and wherever you may be with Anker’s updated line of MagGo charging stations and power banks to ensure you can keep all your tech charged at home or on the go!

The new MagGo 15W wireless charging devices can juice up your iPhone, watch and earbuds twice as fast as standard 7.5W chargers. There is a design for every use case, including a compact, foldable design perfect for travelers.

Other models include a stand and multiple pad designs that allow you to conveniently use and charge your devices whether relaxing in bed or working at your desk.

Additionally, these new MagGo products are Qi2-certified, meaning they’ve been tested by the Wireless Power Consortium for safe, high-power wireless charging. With a Qi2-certified charging device, you don’t have to worry about your tech overheating or transferring heat to nearby products while charging. They’re also Apple MagSafe-compatible.

For on-the-go charging, the Anker MagGo power banks are a must-have. Available in a 6,600 and 10K mAh capacity, these power banks snap magnetically and securely to the back of your iPhone, letting you charge faster without missing a beat. They’re also available in five attractive colors.

2. Robot vacuum

Keeping your living area clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing at home by purchasing a smart vacuum.

The eufy Clean X10 Pro Omni smart vacuum cleaner and mop will keep your home clean with minimal fuss. Strong suction easily picks up debris, hair, dust and powder, leaving carpets and floors clean after just one pass without harming carpet fibers.

Using AI technology, it can identify and avoid over 100 obstacles — including food, pet waste, dander, grass clippings, toys and more.

The X10 Pro Omni tackles even the most stubborn stains in hard-to-clean areas. With its Pro-Detangling Comb, it can help suck up pet hair from the carpet and prevent the hair from getting trapped, ensuring a hands-free and worry-free cleaning experience without interruptions.

Using the eufy Clean app, you can customize the cleaning schedule to your needs. Choose vacuum, mop or dual mode for whole-house or spot cleaning. It’s perfect for scheduled cleanings after cooking or when the kids come home from school!

3. Portable power station

Do you need a high-capacity power station for your home? If so, consider the Anker SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station, a compact but highly versatile power source designed with convenience in mind. With a cost-effective price point, the F3800 is not only a backup battery but also an accessible home power solution. Or, just plug the power station into your RV’s power inlet to run all your appliances at the same time. Best of all, the power station’s suitcase design features a handle and large wheels for easy transportation.

You can also use the power station to charge your EV without additional grounding accessories for convenient charging at home, even when the power is out. Quiet and sustainable, you can use this portable power station for up to 10 years or 3,000 cycles.

When you need a power station for camping, choose the Anker SOLIX C800 Plus portable power station. With three bright camp lights and a retractable pole that can turn into a hanger, tripod or selfie stick, the C800 Plus is the perfect companion to illuminate campsites and power outdoor adventures. Powerful enough to power up to 10 devices at once with a 768Wh capacity and up to 1600-watt output, you can confidently charge an iPhone 13 up to 49 times, use a kettle or coffee maker for 42 minutes, an electric stove for 50 minutes or a CPAP machine for 15 hours.

4. Portable Bluetooth speaker

Whether chilling by the pool, hiking or hosting a small gathering, portable Bluetooth speakers are indispensable. When picking a speaker, choose a rugged model like the Soundcore Boom 2. Enjoy peace of mind when listening outdoors, knowing the floatable, waterproof design will keep your tech safe.

The Bluetooth speaker doesn’t just play music but also elevates your listening experience. Soundcore’s advanced BassUp technology delivers mind-blowing, deep bass, while the 60W audio output crafted with 2 tweeters and 1 woofer provides loud and clear sound for dynamic and immersive listening.

Take your music session to the next level using the speaker’s dual LED lights that enhance your audio journey with built-in lights synchronized to the rhythm. Paired with an impressive 17-hour playtime, you and your friends can enjoy uninterrupted music sessions and have your own backyard music festival.

5. Speakerphone

Make sure everyone can clearly hear your brilliant ideas and insights with a high-quality speakerphone. Pick a model like the AnkerWork S600 Qi2-certified Speakerphone. Using dual VoicePrint recognition, it can pick up your voice, even in the noisiest environments.

Don’t worry about your dog barking in the background. AI noise-canceling technology accurately identifies over 3,300 noises to eliminate background noise. Paired with four high-fidelity microphones, your voice will come through crystal clear during conference calls and virtual meetings.

You won’t have an issue hearing others on your conference calls. The 360-degree sound radiators provide clear sounds on calls and strong bass, so you can crank your favorite tunes while working.

Running out of charge during a call will be a problem of the past. The 15W Qi 2.0 magnetic fast charging provides efficient, worry-free wireless charging to keep you powered even during the longest meetings.

Whether at home, work or on the go, these cutting-edge tech products can significantly enhance your everyday life. To learn about these and other tech items that provide convenience and enjoyment, visit https://www.anker.com/.

2024-01-11T14:01:01

(BPT) – Looking for the ultimate night in? Look no further than the deliciously comforting cup of ramen! Whether you’re a novice noodle enthusiast or a ramen devotee, making ramen at home is the ultimate way to create a cozy evening filled with mouthwatering flavors.

Ramen is infinitely customizable. With the right ingredients and pairings, you can upgrade your ramen experience to create a meal you won’t soon forget. So, grab your chopsticks and check out five ways you can elevate your ramen experience this winter.

1. Create a ramen tasting experience

Upgrade your ramen game by turning it into a tasting adventure. Instead of sticking to one flavor, prepare multiple flavors and styles to sample! For example, Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice with Noodles combines timeless Asian takeout-inspired recipes like General Tso’s Chicken, Japanese Teriyaki Chicken, and Thai Yellow Curry with bite-sized noodles and rice. For more traditional stir fry dishes, reach for Cup Noodles Stir Fry which features flavor-forward noodle selections including the vegetarian-friendly Sweet Chili, savory Korean BBQ flavor and more. Slurp through the line up and dive into a flavor journey, experiencing the unique tasting notes of each product.

2. Pair with a craft beer

For leveling up your ramen, a craft brew pairing is the perfect way to elevate your dining experience in a flavor-forward fashion. Cup Noodles recently partnered with Advanced Cicerone Mandy Naglich to pair a selection of its products with a craft beer based on their ingredients. The result – a flavor-forward Noodles + Brews pairing guide people can easily create at home. “Any eating experience can be elevated by thoughtfully pairing flavors,” said Naglich. “When noodles and craft brews come together in the perfect match, suddenly familiar flavors are revitalized into something that is memorable and fun.”

3. Add veggies for extra crunch

What makes a truly delicious bowl of ramen isn’t just the taste. Texture also plays a huge part in your dining experience. For added crunch, set out small bowls of topping options like bok choy, bean sprouts, sliced mushrooms and onions. These veggies’ crispness provides a satisfying contrast to the tender noodles, taking your bowl of ramen to new heights.

4. Add in egg or tofu for protein

No meal is complete without protein! Pack your ramen with a protein punch by adding a soft-boiled egg or cubes of tofu. A perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg adds a rich taste, while tofu offers a plant-based protein option, adding more nutrition to your steaming bowl of noodles.

For a gourmet touch, try marinating the tofu in soy sauce or sesame oil. To save time, you can place the tofu cubes in a food container with your choice of marinade the night before. However, even just 30 minutes is enough to impart tofu with your chosen flavor.

5. Add a little bit of spice

Combat the cold weather with a kick of heat in your warm soup this season. Add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or chili oil and a dab of spicy miso paste. You can also use spicy ingredients like chili flakes or slices of jalapeno. No matter what you choose, a little bit of spice boosts a soup’s flavor and heat to warm you from the inside out during even the coldest seasons.

Elevating a bowl of ramen doesn’t have to be complicated. Using these five simple tips, you can create a truly delicious and memorable dining experience this winter. Savor your nights and fight the colder weather with a bowl of soup that will warm your stomach and your spirits.

2024-01-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – You’ve done it. You’ve turned the page on another year, gliding into 2024 with a new set of goals and ambitions. But don’t forget: Progress is a marathon, not a sprint.

You don’t have to overhaul your life to invest in your well-being. (Who has that kind of time, anyway?) Incorporating simple, positive changes into your routine can help you work toward a long-term goal without adding daily stress. Try one of the five mental health breaks below for more energy to tackle new challenges and opportunities this year.

1. Embrace the power of nature

Don’t underestimate the life-changing power of going outside. Research shows that being outdoors can help decrease stress, increase creativity and improve your physical and mental wellness.

You don’t have to take a five-mile hike, either. Even small amounts of time outside can be beneficial. Go for a stroll in the park or sit in your backyard so you can soak up the sun. Notice the trees, flowers, birds and natural wonders we sometimes miss. Take a deep breath of fresh air and let nature’s calming influence wash over you.

2. Unleash your creativity

Expressing yourself through creativity can foster a sense of joy and fulfillment. It’s also a great way to find confidence and new perspectives that can be applied in all areas of your life.

Whether you paint, write, sing or dance, rediscover activities that light you up to find renewed purpose. Try your hand at DIY crafting, or test your green thumb with indoor or outdoor gardening (window-sill plants count!) Even if you find a few minutes for self-expression in the morning or before bed, you can build a practice to look forward to every day.

3. Treat yourself

Carve out moments in the day for some “you time.” Relax with a mud mask, take a long bath or simply treat your tastebuds. Invest in your well-being with better-for-you routines and remedies that leave you feeling nourished and energized, like fruit-packed Tropic Bowls from Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Tropic Bowls start with a base of delicious acai, chia oatmeal pudding or yogurt, topped with a layer of fruit, granola, chia seeds and more. They’re perfect for breakfast or an anytime snack, ideal for taking a break in your day, whenever it fits your schedule. Set aside the to-do list and take time for yourself, creating an everyday escape.

4. Move your body

Regular physical activity can benefit your physical and mental health, so let your endorphins flow when you need a lift. When you move, you can relieve stress, regulate your emotions and strengthen the connection between mind and body.

Movement can take many forms, so focus on a style that resonates with you. Hit the gym, dance to your favorite playlist, practice yoga or take a leisurely walk through your neighborhood. No matter what you do, remember that any amount of activity is better than none.

5. Disconnect to reconnect

Technology can help us connect with others professionally and socially, but too many notifications, obligations and online time can overwhelm. Technology can even have a negative impact on your health. This year, reconnect with yourself and others by taking a break from tech.

Dedicate time each day away from your devices to be present, mindful and ready to experience the small joys in life. Even if you’re just sitting in peaceful silence, breathing easy or laughing with loved ones, enjoy the freedom and engagement of going offline.

Are you ready to prioritize your well-being in 2024? Refresh your routine and embark on a journey of self-discovery this year using these five simple tips for quick mental health breaks.

2024-01-09T23:01:00

(BPT) – People visiting foodbanks rose by 55% in 2020, with about a quarter of those being first-time visitors, according to Feeding America. This need highlighted an important program that has been serving pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women and infants and children up to age five who are at nutritional risk. That program is called the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).

While COVID shined a light on the nation’s battle with nutrition insecurity — hunger as it is more commonly known — the need has not gone away as the pandemic waned. In fact, with inflation increasing over the past few years, for many, it has become tougher to find affordable fruits and vegetables, making WIC even more important.

According to the USDA, 50% of babies and their mothers qualify for WIC, which includes a dedicated monthly benefit participants can use to purchase healthful fruits and vegetables for themselves and their children. Research shows this benefit not only enhances access to fresh produce for low-income children but also fosters healthier pregnancies and optimal growth and development in children and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

WIC has infused needed resources that have helped increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables to two cups per day — delivering on the federal government’s own dietary guidance recommendations.

Despite widespread bipartisan support and verifiable benefits for kids and mothers, the program still faces problems as some budget proposals look to reduce funding for programs so many have relied on to feed their families. This would reduce access to nutritional foods among those who can least afford them and reverse its track record of producing positive health care outcomes for participants.

One latest proposal is a bill (H.R. 4368) that calls for reducing the fruit and vegetable benefit by 70%, with children receiving $11 monthly for fruits and vegetables and women receiving $13.

“We should be looking for ways to increase access to healthy foods, not putting up barriers, and $24 a month is insufficient for meeting women’s and children’s needs. The nutritional eating habits, started now, will be with them the rest of their lives, making their lives healthier,” said Mollie Van Lieu, the vice president for Nutrition and Health for the International Fresh Produce Association.

A report released in 2023 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that nearly one in two children don’t eat a single vegetable each day, and about a third of kids don’t eat any fruit on any given day.

WIC doesn’t just benefit mothers and babies, but also provides a positive economic impact to not just fruit and vegetable growers and the local economies where WIC benefits are redeemed. Under recent proposals, an estimated $1 billion would be cut from fruit and vegetable sales, potentially impacting fruit and vegetable growers across the country.

Bottom line: Understanding the many benefits of the WIC program is essential before making any lasting decisions that could impact families, farmers, numerous communities, local economies and more.

2024-01-05T07:01:00

(BPT) – Can you imagine being diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of seven? For one little girl in southern Florida named Nicole, this was her reality. Nicole’s devastating diagnosis meant being confined to a hospital bed, where her greatest comfort was watching her favorite sport on TV — figure skating. The joy she felt watching her favorite skaters performing on the ice led to Nicole’s dream, which became a wish granted by Make-A-Wish: She wanted to become a famous figure skater.

Thanks to Make-A-Wish and its many generous donors and sponsors, Nicole was able to experience weeks of private skating lessons after her chemotherapy treatments until the big day when her wish would come true. Her wish was granted with the help of a team of professional figure skaters, a local entertainment venue, her coach, her family and many supporters in the community. Nicole was able to perform on the ice along with professional skaters, and even received a medal! You can watch her triumphant experience at Wish.org/nicole.

Nicole’s wish is just one of more than 550,000 wishes that have been granted globally for children with critical illnesses since Make-A-Wish was founded in 1980.

A new partnership to make even more wishes come true

To support these kinds of magical, life-affirming moments with children who need them, Red Robin, a national restaurant chain known for its delicious gourmet burgers and family-friendly atmosphere, has partnered with Make-A-Wish.

Donating 10 cents for each kids’ meal sold at all corporate-owned and participating franchise restaurants nationwide to Make-A-Wish, Red Robin has pledged $3 million in donations over a three-year period. Since the partnership launched in February, Red Robin has donated more than $700,000 so far toward granting wishes to nearly 70 children throughout the United States. In addition to the donation program, Red Robin has hosted 40 families for Wish reveal parties and celebrations in their restaurants.

“Make-A-Wish is an organization very close to my heart after several years of prior service on their Board of Directors,” said G.J. Hart, president and CEO, Red Robin. “At Red Robin, we always strive to create memorable moments for families in our restaurants. With this partnership, we are honored to have the opportunity to extend that joy to the children who need it most.”

Every year, 27,000 kids diagnosed with critical illnesses may qualify for a wish, and currently Make-A-Wish grants about half that many wishes each year. This national partnership will help raise crucial funds to make even more life-changing wishes possible for children — many of whom credit their wish with helping them overcome their illness.

“We know wishes bring hope and renewed joy to children battling critical illnesses,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “Our partnerships are the driving force behind every wish granted, and Red Robin’s generous commitment will have a powerful impact on our mission and the lives of children and families nationwide.”

How you can help

You can learn more about the partnership at RedRobin.com/make-a-wish — and plan your family’s next visit to Red Robin to help make a difference for Make-A-Wish kids everywhere.

2024-01-04T15:43:00

(BPT) – Are you making any New Year’s resolutions this year? If so, consider prioritizing your sexual and reproductive health. While often overlooked, they are undeniably integral to your overall wellness.

Here are five tips to guide your goals for better sexual and reproductive health this year.

1. Schedule regular checkups

Make sure that you’re on track with regularly scheduled checkups at your OB/GYN that may include things like a pelvic exam, screening for cervical cancer, testing for STDs, birth control or any other concerns you or your health care provider may want to address. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask your health care provider questions and tell them about any issues you are having — so make a list before you go so you don’t forget.

2. Understand your birth control options and how to secure them

During your routine health checkups, it’s important to keep up to date with the latest contraceptive methods and determine which option aligns best with your current stage in life and personal lifestyle choices. Ensuring you are well-informed about birth control methods that suit you and are keeping a steady supply is especially important in busier periods filled with social engagements and travel.

3. Have a back-up plan

For those unexpected moments that catch couples off guard, Cadence OTC’s Morning After Pill provides a reliable backup for ‘oops’ moments like when a condom breaks or when protection slipped your mind.

“Prioritizing your health this year means not only having a plan, but also having a back-up plan,” said OB/GYN Nap Hosang, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Cadence OTC. “Cadence OTC is increasing over-the-counter access to safe, effective, affordable contraceptives for everyone everywhere, starting with Morning After Pill. Keeping emergency contraception on hand during this busy season can ensure you’re protected no matter what. Stocking up on emergency contraception to be able to take as soon as possible is crucial for its effectiveness.”

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Cadence OTC’s Morning After Pill is not only a safe and high-quality option but is now available for online purchase at half the price of the leading brand— making reliable and affordable emergency contraception more accessible at an affordable price. In addition, Cadence OTC is actively seeking FDA approval for Zena, a groundbreaking over-the-counter combination birth control pill, eliminating the need for a prescription or doctor’s visit. For more information, visit cadenceotc.com.

4. Educate yourself

Keep abreast of the latest advancements in technology, science, and medicine that impact your health. The field of medicine is always offering new insights into preventive health measures through improved hygiene, nutrition, and exercise, as well as evolving treatments for various conditions. Seek trustworthy information from authoritative sources like government health websites and platforms established by medical and healthcare organizations or academic institutions.

5. Open communication with a partner

Maintaining a healthy relationship often hinges on regular, open, and honest communication with your partner. Sharing concerns and feelings about your physical relationship can lead to improved intimacy and enhance your overall well-being.

Remember, taking good care of your overall health is an ongoing practice that can help you lead a fuller, happier, more joyful life. If something is unsettling or if there is tension between partners, communicating about those differences should be a positive experience because it offers the possibility of greater understanding and mutually acceptable improvement in the new year and beyond.

2024-01-03T11:01:00

(BPT) – It’s that time of year again: you feel the tickle in the back of your throat, think you’re coming down with something, and visit the local urgent care. They ask for a copay, and you pay it. But have you given any thought to how you pay for medical expenses?

Enter the health savings account. HSAs can be a powerful tool to help save and pay for qualified medical expenses. If you’re one of many Americans enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), you have access to one of the most tax-efficient savings options available.

If this is news to you, you’re not alone: research from Fidelity Investments finds more than half of Americans are unfamiliar with the features of HSAs. Here’s what you need to know to start unlocking the potential of your HSA:

1. Leverage the triple-tax advantage[i]

Navigating the health journey can be incredibly complicated, and rising health care costs don’t make it any easier. The triple tax–advantaged nature of HSAs can offer some help by reducing your taxable income: the money you contribute to the account goes in tax-free, you can withdraw your HSA funds to spend on qualified medical expenses with no tax penalty, and all the money in the account can grow tax-free as well.

“With such a strong link between health and financial well-being, HSAs can play an important role in your overall financial plan,” said Karen Volo, head of health and benefit accounts at Fidelity. “Having a dedicated, tax-advantaged way to pay for both anticipated and unexpected health costs can bring greater peace of mind.”

2. You can pay for a lot more than just doctor visits

Qualified medical expenses that apply to an HSA run the gamut from copays and deductibles to more niche services you might not expect. Things like medical equipment, family planning services, acupuncture, or even lead-based paint removal may fall under this umbrella if certain requirements are met.

3. Your employer may make contributions

Many employers actually help their workforce pay for health care costs through contributions to their HSA. If you’re enrolled in a high-deductible health plan through your employer, make sure you check to see if this benefit is available to you.

“Think of this like an employer contribution for your health,” said Volo. “You won’t get a tax deduction on what your employer contributes, but you will be able to spend it on qualified expenses tax-free or give it the potential to grow over time by investing it.”

4. You can invest funds held in your HSA

The money you contribute to your HSA is tax-free, and it can be invested to potentially grow over time, which is an especially valuable contribution to your retirement nest egg. That’s great news for your wallet when you consider that the average 65-year-old retiring in 2023 can expect to spend $157,500 in health care costs throughout retirement.[ii]

5. Your HSA is yours to keep

According to Fidelity, 46% of Americans believe they’ll have to forfeit the money in their HSA at the end of the year if they don’t use it. Thankfully, that isn’t the case.

“Remember, unlike a flexible spending account, there are no use-it-or-lose-it rules in your HSA,” explained Volo. “The account is always yours, even if you change employers, and the money you contribute can be used now and in the future.”

Is an HSA right for you?

If you’re eligible and interested in opening an account, consider a Fidelity HSA™, named the #1 HSA by Morningstar for 2023.[iii]

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Keep in mind that investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated, based on the information available at that time, and may change based on market or other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments or its affiliates. Fidelity does not assume any duty to update any of the information.

The information provided here is general in nature. It is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal or tax advice. Because the administration of an HSA is a taxpayer responsibility, customers should be strongly encouraged to consult their tax advisor before opening an HSA. Customers are also encouraged to review information available from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for taxpayers, which can be found on the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov. They can find IRS Publication 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans, and IRS Publication 502,Medical and Dental Expenses (including the Health Coverage Tax Credit), online, or you can call the IRS to request a copy of each at 800.829.3676.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC

900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

1118687.1.0

© 2023 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.

2024-01-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

Sometimes it takes another person to notice signs of illness before you even realize yourself that it’s time to seek help. That was the case for Eric Tozer. He was experiencing classic symptoms of type 1 diabetes, without realizing it. When his mother said something about his significant weight loss and that she thought he might have type 1 diabetes, all Tozer could think was, “How could I have type 1 diabetes? I didn’t have any family history of it, at all.” Fortunately, he still decided to schedule a visit to the doctor. After checking his blood sugar levels and clinical symptoms, his doctor quickly diagnosed him with type 1 diabetes.

Tozer is certainly not alone. Every year, an estimated 64,000 Americans are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. As that number continues to increase, many people may feel compelled to seek resources and information about their risk factors for type 1 diabetes, which can be an intimidating process.

Strides can be made to improve outcomes by debunking common myths about this disease. Tozer’s story highlights that the more you know early, the more you may be able to do to prepare. Here are a few misconceptions and truths to keep in mind:

Myth #1: Type 1 diabetes is a juvenile disease

A common misunderstanding of type 1 diabetes is that it’s predominantly diagnosed in children. In fact, for a long time, it was incorrectly referred to as “juvenile diabetes.” While that name does have merit in some respects, as type 1 diabetes does usually develop and is diagnosed during childhood and young adulthood, individuals at any age can develop it. Tozer is a noteworthy example, as he was diagnosed at age 22. Interestingly, recent studies show that more than half the people who are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are diagnosed as adults.

Myth #2: Type 1 diabetes is caused by lifestyle factors

You might be more familiar with type 2 diabetes, which can be prevented or delayed with lifestyle changes such as eating healthy or staying active. When it comes to type 1 diabetes, no one currently knows how to prevent the disease. Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction (the body attacks itself by mistake), meaning that anyone — even the most active or health-conscious individuals — can still be at risk of developing it.

Myth #3: People without a family history of type 1 diabetes are not at risk

While having a first- or second-degree family member does significantly increase your risk of developing type 1 diabetes (by up to 15 times), nearly 90% of those who develop the condition do not have a family history at all. Currently, the risk factors of type 1 diabetes are still being researched. At the moment, there are environmental factors and exposure to some viral infections that can be linked to heightened risk of developing the disease — but more research is needed. Right now, the best way to understand your risk is to speak to your doctor and undergo blood testing to screen for autoantibodies associated with type 1 diabetes.

Myth #4: If you don’t have symptoms of type 1 diabetes, you don’t need to be concerned

It can take months or years before symptoms of type 1 diabetes are noticeable, especially because early symptoms (nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains) are often similar to other health conditions. However, once noticeable common symptoms arise, such as increased thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss and blurred vision, a person is already in the final stage of type 1 diabetes where the body is no longer able to make enough insulin, blood sugar is high and medical crisis situations become more likely. As Tozer described it, the difference between managing noticeable symptoms or an early diagnosis can be compared to “jumping into the deep end versus walking into the pool.” The previously mentioned blood tests can detect type 1 diabetes before any noticeable symptoms arise — getting screened is a small step that can make a big impact in disease management.

A type 1 diabetes diagnosis doesn’t have to be scary. By dispelling common misconceptions about this disease and its associated risk factors, we can begin changing the story about type 1 diabetes. Not knowing is simply no longer an option. Talk to your doctor about early screening.

As Tozer said, “Blood tests can give people an opportunity to prepare for the future, which is a true game changer.” Take control of the future by joining The 1 Pledge movement, led by Sanofi, at The1Pledge.com. Follow and use #ScreenForType1 to join the conversation on social media.

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.

Eric Tozer is a paid spokesperson for Sanofi.

2024-01-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Ready to start 2024 and improve your home life? You don’t have to do it alone. This year, achieve your New Year’s resolutions with a little help from smart appliances and apps.

Smart appliances on their own make everyday tasks incredibly convenient and simple, removing barriers that would otherwise make staying committed to your home-life resolutions a challenge. However, you can take it to the next level by using their integrated smart apps.

LG Electronics USA wants to help you live a smarter and easier life with its smart appliances and, more importantly, its integrated app. The ThinQ app is a smart hub managing all smart devices and appliances, ensuring they run smoothly and keeping you connected and in control. Not convinced? Check out three resolutions you can achieve with ease this year with a little help from smart appliances and a hassle-free app.

1. Become a home chef with ease

If you want to become a better cook so you can eat healthier, impress friends and family and explore your culinary creativity, you can achieve this goal with ease with the help of some smart technology. Even if you have limited culinary experience, smart appliances and connected apps can help you learn new recipes and control your oven, range or refrigerator with convenience.

For example, using LG’s ThinQ app, you can access recipes, order ingredients and send instructions to your smart oven or microwave. Once you know what you want to make and how to make it, use ThinQ to remotely start the proof function and bake breads, pastries and other delicacies like a pro.

The app also lets you customize time and temperature controls so you can achieve a chef-level dish every time. When you inevitably have to clean your oven after all your cooking adventures, simply remote start the EasyClean cycle.

2. Take on chores like a champ

Do you have trouble staying on top of household tasks? Smart dishwashers, washers, and dryers can make it easy to become a chore champion.

If you’ve handwashed a few dishes and just need to dry them, don’t pick up the dish towel. Use the ThinQ app and set your dishwasher for a dry-only cycle. Did you load the dishwasher but forget to start it? No worries. Just use your phone to remotely start and stop the dishwasher and check its progress. Best of all, you can use the app to download customized wash cycles for pots and pans, glassware and even pet bowls.

Don’t dread doing laundry. With a smart washer and dryer, you can care for your clothes with peace of mind. Using the ThinQ app, you can download specialized cycles and laundry settings, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your delicates. The smart technology also incrementally dispenses detergent for better cleaning. Don’t forget to use ThinQ to pair your LG washer and dryer so they can communicate over Wi-Fi and select appropriate settings based on the most recent load.

3. Handle home maintenance like a pro

Home maintenance is probably the last thing on your mind. When you’re busy getting the kids off to school, running out the door to work and staying on top of dinner, shopping and hosting loved ones, it’s easy for home maintenance tasks to slip your mind. However, a smart app and paired devices can help you stay organized and on top of tasks like a pro.

For example, the ThinQ app sends alerts to your smartphone to stay ahead of potential appliance issues and offers real-time diagnosis. Armed with this knowledge, you create proactive solutions and avoid preventable repairs and service calls.

When you link the ThinQ app with an Alexa-enabled device, you’ll know when you’re running low on laundry or dish detergent, fabric softener and rinse aid. Alexa will also automatically place an Amazon order for these products, so you don’t have to make an extra trip to the store.

Don’t worry about keeping track of your water filter. ThinQ monitors the water filter, so you’ll know when it needs replacing. Just like with your detergent items, Alexa can automatically reorder water filters through Amazon based on your usage.

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2024-01-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you are one of the more than 35 million Americans who are estimated to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you already know how disruptive it can be to your life. While OSA is one of the most common and serious sleep disorders, the condition is widely under-diagnosed, so the number of affected Americans may be far greater.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep, blocking normal breathing. This can lead to low levels of oxygen in your blood while you sleep and result in poor sleep, fatigue and sleepiness that can negatively impact quality of life for many. In the long term, OSA has also been shown to contribute to high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Most people diagnosed with OSA are prescribed positive air pressure therapy devices such as continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, which can work very well in helping people receive the oxygen they need while they are sleeping. However, because many have difficulty using or tolerating these devices, a significant percentage of the population with OSA remains untreated, undertreated and at risk.

A new option for treating obstructive sleep apnea

Apnimed is a pharmaceutical company working to change the way OSA is treated. The company recently completed a large Phase 2b clinical trial, called MARIPOSA, to study AD109 (an investigational medication which is a single pill taken at bedtime) as a possible treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

AD109 has the potential to be the first oral medication that treats both the underlying cause of OSA — airway obstruction at night — and improve the daytime symptoms of OSA, such as fatigue. It is designed to treat people with OSA from mild to severe.

Many patients with OSA are unable to adequately treat their condition with existing options, and the team at Apnimed is driven to find new solutions for patients and their doctors to overcome these barriers to treatment. The success of this effort is largely dependent on the dedicated work done by patients and doctors in the community who take part in clinical research.

“MARIPOSA results showed that AD109 improved daytime fatigue, which is an often debilitating effect of poor sleep due to OSA,” said Paula Schweitzer, Ph.D., an investigator in the MARIPOSA trial and director of research at St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine and Research Center, Chesterfield, Missouri. “For those who cannot tolerate current treatments, AD109 has the potential to be a convenient oral pill that could improve people’s quality of life at night and during the daytime as well.”

Learn about enrolling in the clinical trial

With the promising results from the MARIPOSA study, a new study is now available for people with OSA.

If you or a loved one has obstructive sleep apnea and you are unable to successfully use or tolerate treatment with a CPAP machine, you could be eligible to enroll in a six-month clinical trial called SynAIRgy.

To learn more about the clinical trial and to enroll, visit: www.SynAIRgyStudy.com.