Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-01-03T14:01:00

(BPT) – Especially in the winter months, most people spend the bulk of each day — up to 90%* — indoors, according to the U.S. EPA. Unfortunately, whether at home, in the car or at work, indoor air has been shown to be three times more polluted than outdoor air, posing a significant threat to even healthy people.

During the winter months with cold and flu season rampant and other viruses like COVID-19, it is even more important to take precautions.

Allergens, mold and viruses thrive indoors and trigger illness ranging from asthma and allergic reactions to serious respiratory infections. Hospitals already employ sophisticated air filtration systems to address many of these issues.

Other pollutants pervasive in homes and most indoor locations include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by new carpeting and upholstery. Exposure to VOCs has been known to cause various health conditions, ranging from minor irritation to more serious conditions. So how can you be sure the indoor air you breathe every day is safe?

Here are tips to follow that can help improve the quality of the air you’re breathing, day in and day out.

1. Change your HVAC filter frequently. To help ensure that your home has cleaner air, one simple step is to change your HVAC filter more frequently than the schedule recommended by the manufacturer of your system. The usual manufacturer’s recommendation may not be often enough, especially if you have family members with asthma or allergies, or if you have household pets or live in an area with a high pollen count. Increasing how often you change the filter will improve HVAC performance, helping to keep the air in your home cleaner all year long.

2. Use a CarryiOn portable air and surface purifier. Unlike HEPA filters that simply trap germs, the CarryiOn air purifier works by producing both positive hydrogen and negative oxygen ions simultaneously — and other ionizers only emit one type of ion. Together, the positive and negative ions actively neutralize and eliminate viruses like COVID-19, bacteria, mold, VOCs, pet dander and even odors in the air and on surfaces. CarryiOn takes the same technology already used in hospitals, NASA Space Programs and Navy submarines and makes it small, portable and quiet enough to take anywhere you go, providing a 20-foot sphere of clean, breathable air and sanitized surfaces — at home, on the airplane, in the car, at hotels and any public place.

Even better, it can run on either AC power or a rechargeable power bank and no filters are required. It is simple to use 24/7.

Use CarryiOn in spaces including:

• Any room of your home, including the nursery
• Senior living facilities
• The office
• Your car or truck
• A train or airplane
• At restaurants
• A gym or exercise class
• Hotel rooms
• Schools
• Dorm Rooms

You can use it anywhere indoors that would benefit from cleaner, fresher air and sanitized surfaces to help you do all the things you love to do, giving you peace of mind that the air you’re breathing is as clean as can be. Visit CarryiOn.com to learn more.

3. Vacuum your home often

Unsure how frequently you should vacuum to help keep dust, pet hair and other potential irritants under control? The rule of thumb is to vacuum as many days per week as you have living beings in your home. That means if you have two adults, one child and one dog, you should vacuum four days per week. Make sure to use a closed/sealed vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration and change the unit’s filters and bags regularly.

4. Consider air duct cleaning

Air duct cleaning is another important step that can help improve the cleanliness of air in your home by reducing the abundance of dust and allergens being continually recirculated by your heating and cooling system. If you haven’t done this in a long time — or never — you may want to hire a company to do this for your home. Use a company certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), and make sure they look around your home’s air ducts with a camera to ensure maximum cleanliness.

Following these steps, you’ll be able to relax and take a deep breath, knowing the air you breathe is as clean as possible.

2023-01-03T07:31:00

(BPT) – When winter descends and days become darker, travel to a sun-filled destination can keep your spirits high and ward off winter’s chill. One of the sunniest states in the U.S., California, has long been a beacon to travelers seeking an escape, and perhaps one of its most hidden gems is San Jose.

Located in the Bay Area of California, San Jose may be more renowned as the tech Capital of Silicon Valley — but it’s so much more! Under a blanket of blue skies and incredible weather year-round, San Jose is a city filled with cultural diversity and endless opportunities for adventure and fun. Whether you enjoy hiking picturesque trails, sampling craft brews or learning about California’s rich history, you’ll find something for everyone in San Jose.

Ready to pack your bags for a winter getaway in one of California’s most inventive cities? Check out these five unique attractions, activities and experiences you can have when you book a trip to San Jose.

1. Explore the outdoors

Located in a valley surrounded by picturesque mountains, outdoor lovers will find an array of trails, expansive parks and awe-inspiring vistas just ripe for outdoor adventure. Hike 13 miles of trails at Alum Rock Park, one of California’s oldest municipal parks, and uncover a canyon in the foothills of the Diablo Range. If you’re looking for higher altitude adventures, head over to Castle Rock State Park, located along the Santa Cruz Mountains, just 20 minutes outside San Jose. Here, the famous California Coastal Redwoods, some of the oldest and tallest living trees in the world, will tower above you on a journey that will have you feeling far removed from city life.

2. Immerse in the Bay Area’s history and culture

Founded as the first civic settlement in California in 1777, San Jose originated as a pueblo town and has grown into a modern and technological hotbed as home to more than 6,600 technology companies. Delve into the area’s culture and history by visiting its vast museums, from the San Jose Museum of Art around the corner from Signia by Hilton San Jose, to the contemporary art center Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana (MACLA), and The Computer History Museum to The Tech Interactive. More than two dozen museums invite guests and locals alike to experience the city’s art, culture and influence firsthand.

3. Uncover San Jose’s quirky side

San Jose is also home to the bewildering Winchester Mystery House, where visitors can tour and unlock the secrets of the beautiful but bizarre estate. Under construction 24 hours a day for 36 years to ward off the spirits said to haunt the Winchester family, the home features staircases and doors that lead to nowhere. From the haunts of Winchester, visit the nearby ghost town of Drawbridge, which was incorporated in 1876 but abandoned once it began sinking into the bay’s marshland. And who would have thought San Jose is home to a massive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. (Yes; it even has mummies!)

4. Grab a pint or fancy a flight

After a day of hiking and shopping, you can take in San Jose’s craft beer scene and unwind with a pint or two. Visitors will find several local craft breweries, such as Umunhum Brewing, California’s first co-op brewery that offers several styles of beers, from pale ales to stouts.

San Jose also boasts several vineyards and wineries that have produced award-winning wines. While you enjoy sampling wines, you can also take in stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, home to more than 150 unique wineries, including award-winning Ridge Vineyards, the delightful Testarossa Winery and the historic Mountain Winery.

5. Mix and mingle with locals

Enjoy a comfortable place to see and be seen between adventures at the centrally located Signia by Hilton San Jose, nestled in between the redwood-covered Santa Cruz Mountains and eastern Diablo Range. Here, locals and visitors alike converge at the neighborhood hotel’s AJI Bar and Robata, a destination bar at the heart of the hotel that combines Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavors. The innovative cuisine pairs perfectly with the beverage program featuring creative, unexpected pairings and an expansive Japanese whisky, sake and pisco selection.

A part of the local culture of San Jose, guests can also rest and relax after exciting days exploring with comfortable and quiet accommodations and premium wellness services, including a sauna, fitness classes and facilities. To learn more and plan your stay, visit Signia by Hilton San Jose.

2023-01-02T23:01:00

(BPT) – Life is busy and it can be challenging to make sure you — and your family — are getting the nutrition you need to stay energized and nourished all day long. Fortunately, registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S. Quest partner, RDN, former lead dietitian at Cleveland Clinic and founder and president of KAK Consulting, LLC., shares her tried-and-true tips to help prioritize nutrition, no matter how busy life gets.

“I’m always on the go — whether flying to a conference, heading to the gym, picking my kids up at school or running errands around town,” says Kirkpatrick. “To keep my energy up, my food must be easy to take on the go, but most importantly, must also contribute to better health.”

Kirkpatrick shares her recommendations for keeping nutritious snacks on hand when out and about, based on her own experience as both a mother and busy professional.

1. Best on-the-road snacks

Kirkpatrick preps a “car grab bag” that’s always ready to grab and go. “My car grab bag has to satisfy both me and my kids as they’re often clamoring for a snack the second they get in the car.”

She recommends stocking your car grab bag with kid-friendly and appealing snacks like whole grain pretzels, cheese sticks and apple slices.

2. Travel snacks for any trip

Whether you’re flying or just running around town to meetings, it’s easy to feel drained of energy. Grabbing a snack that’s delicious, easy to carry around and energy-boosting — without jeopardizing your wellness goals — is a must.

“I turn to an old favorite with a new formulation that’s better, softer and yummieeeer than when they first blasted into the market: Quest Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bars. I’ve been traveling with these bars for over ten years, and they never disappoint,” says Kirkpatrick. “Quest Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bars are a good source of protein, with 4 net carbs and 1 gram of sugar, providing a steady source of energy throughout the day.”

Need a smaller version to tuck in your purse or travel bag? The mini versions provide the perfect quick pick-me-up in between outings.

3. Post-workout recharge

After a workout, it’s essential to refuel your body with the right foods.

“I love grabbing low-fat Greek yogurt with blueberries to help build muscle and replenish energy levels,” says Kirkpatrick. “Whey protein helps with muscle mass, and blueberries allow me to achieve one of the six colors I aim to consume in my diet daily.”

4. Quick snacks any time you need them

Kirkpatrick recommends keeping nutritious snacks in your everyday bag to help keep you energized and feeling good throughout your busy day.

“When leaving the house, I never know if I’ll be gone two hours or ten, so I need snacks that can keep me going for either,” Kirkpatrick explains. “A bag of homemade trail mix is my go-to, with mixed nuts and goji berries. Since trail mix can often be high in sugar, I love to throw in some Quest mini Peanut Butter Cups as an alternative sweet treat that supports my nutritional goals. I also keep a baggie of carrot sticks handy as both are great options to grab right out of my purse!”

Regardless of what your busy schedule looks like, stay energized and satisfied by planning ahead with these easy snack options.

2023-01-02T06:01:00

(BPT) – The new year is a time to refocus on your health and the things that bring you joy. Fortunately, what you eat can help you achieve both and getting your year off to a strong start, both literally and figuratively, is easy, especially when you try new recipes featuring delicious, wholesome ingredients like beef.

“A balanced diet that includes high-quality protein and other nutrient-rich foods is an essential component for strength,” said Registered Dietitian Amy Goodson. “Beef is a complete protein that contains all the essential amino acids the body needs to support physical activity and a strong, healthy life.”

Not only does beef help you maintain your strength while satisfying hunger, this high-quality protein can also help you feel energized so you can be your best throughout the day. “The iron in beef, which is more easily absorbed than iron from plant sources, can help prevent fatigue,” Goodson said.

You can start the new year out strong with new recipes that fuel your body and delight the palate. Be inspired by these beef recipes from the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand, funded by the Beef Checkoff:

Pomegranate Steak with Quinoa

This colorful dish features beef strip steak that is marinated in pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar and herbs, then served with quinoa and more pomegranates for garnish.

Ingredients:

2 beef strip steak, boneless, cut 3/4 inch thick (about 8 ounces each)
2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
Pomegranate seeds (optional)

Marinade and sauce:

1 cup pomegranate juice
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Quinoa:

1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 cup thinly sliced fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup pomegranate arils or sweetened dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Combine marinade and sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Reserve 3/4 cup for basting sauce. Place boneless beef strip steaks and remaining marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steaks to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 15 minutes to 2 hours.

Meanwhile, prepare basting sauce. Pour reserved 3/4 cup marinade into small saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook 15 to 20 minutes or until reduced by half and slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Cook quinoa in broth in medium saucepan according to package directions. Stir in spinach, pomegranate arils and walnuts. Keep warm.

Remove steaks from marinade; discard marinade. Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 7 to 10 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, times remain the same) for medium rare (145 F) to medium (160 F) doneness, turning occasionally and basting with sauce.

Cook’s tip: To cook on grill pan, heat nonstick grill pan over medium heat until hot. Place steaks on grill pan; cook 10 to 12 minutes for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally and basting with sauce.

Carve steaks into slices; season with salt, as desired. Place quinoa on serving platter; top with cheese. Arrange beef around quinoa. Garnish with pomegranate arils, if desired.

Champagne Steak Salad with Blue Cheese

Grilled steak and peppers grace the top of this salad, which is spiked with a champagne vinaigrette for an incredible dish full of vitamins and nutrients.

Ingredients:

2 beef ranch steaks, cut 1 inch thick (about 8 ounces each)
1 pound green beans, trimmed
2 teaspoons crushed mixed peppercorns (black, white, pink and green)
2 medium red and/or yellow bell peppers, cut into quarters
1 package (5 ounces) mixed salad greens
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup champagne or white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground mixed peppercorns

Directions:

Bring 1-inch water to a boil in medium saucepan. Add green beans, cover and cook 4 to 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain; set aside.

Meanwhile, combine vinaigrette ingredients in small bowl; set aside.

Press 2 teaspoons peppercorns evenly onto beef ranch steaks. Place steaks in center of grid over medium, ash-covered coals; arrange peppers around steak. Grill steaks, covered, 11 to 14 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 12 to 16 minutes) for medium rare (145 F) to medium (160 F) doneness. Grill peppers 7 to 11 minutes (gas grill times remain the same) or until crisp-tender, turning steaks and vegetables occasionally.

Cook’s tip: One pound beef top sirloin steak, cut 1-inch, thick may be substituted for ranch steaks. For charcoal, grill, covered, 11 to 15 minutes (for gas, grill, covered, 13 to 16 minutes) for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally.

Carve steaks into thin slices. Cut peppers into 1-1/2-inch pieces. Season beef and vegetables with salt, as desired. Divide salad greens among four serving bowls; top evenly with vegetables. Arrange beef on salad. Sprinkle with blue cheese. Drizzle with vinaigrette.

2023-01-01T23:01:00

(BPT) – With the new year comes new goals, new resolutions, new trends — and a new you. Colette Heimowitz, vice president of Nutrition and Education at Simply Good Foods Company, is sharing a few of the latest trends in health and wellness that will help you navigate an overall better lifestyle for the year ahead.

Trend 1: Damp January

This January, maintaining a damp lifestyle will become an increasingly popular choice in health and wellness. What is a damp lifestyle? In other words, you may not abstain 100% from all alcoholic beverages, but you can plan to avoid heavy drinking. Heimowitz recommends this trend as it can also help you maintain a low-carb lifestyle.

“The liver makes ketones out of alcohol, so technically when you drink, you’ll remain in ketosis. The problem is that alcohol converts more easily to ketones than fatty acids do, so your liver will use the alcohol first, in preference to fat,” explains Heimowitz. “When you drink, your fat burning is put on hold until all the alcohol is out of your system.”

Trend 2: Affordable bento boxes

With the cost of food continuing to rise, Heimowitz shares her favorite, trendy and most cost-effective way to pack lunch. Bento boxes were a trend you may have noticed on social media in the past year, and they aren’t going away! Derived from the traditional Japanese lunch box, you can find numerous bento boxes online and in stores that make packing a lunch fun, easy and convenient — for grownups and kids alike.

To create a balanced bento box, start with a protein source such as a Low Carb Mediterranean Canned Tuna and Cucumber Salad. Canned tuna is an inexpensive pantry staple and is naturally low in carbs. Once you have your protein base, pack some fruits and veggies, as well as a fun snack.

“The Atkins Protein Chips add a tasty and much needed crunch to your lunch,” Heimowitz says. “The line offers three flavors: Nacho Cheese, Ranch and Chipotle BBQ. Each contains 13 grams of protein and 4 grams of net carbs, making them great for snacking.”

Trend 3: Accommodating recipes for dietary restrictions

As people continue to explore and embrace new lifestyles such as vegetarianism, keto and more, one of the biggest trends is leaning toward flexible, accommodating recipes for those with dietary restrictions.

Most recently, cloud bread went viral on the internet due to its fun consistency, health benefits and its flexibility for accommodating dietary restrictions. For example, the Atkins Keto Barbecue Cloud Bread Sandwiches have only a few ingredients and come together in less than an hour! Add your favorite sandwich fixings and Atkins Protein Chips to create a delicious sandwich and the perfect, balanced meal for a better 2023.

Try the popular recipe: Atkins Keto Barbecue Cloud Bread Sandwiches

Ingredients:

2 bags Atkins Chipotle BBQ Protein Chips

4 large raw eggs

1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

4 ounces cream cheese

1/4 teaspoon table salt

5 pieces fresh green leaf lettuce

5 slices, medium fresh tomatoes

10 ounces roasted turkey breast

3 3/4 ounces cheddar cheese

5 slices, thin fresh red onion

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 300°. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, process chips into crumbs. Set aside 4 teaspoons; pour the rest into a medium bowl.

3. Separate the egg whites and yolks, placing the yolks in the bowl with the chips, and placing the egg whites into a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer with a whip attachment. Sprinkle egg whites with cream of tartar and whip until stiff peaks form.

4. Warm cream cheese gently in a microwave (15 seconds) or over steaming water. Whisk together with egg yolks, chips and salt. Gently fold in egg whites, one third at a time, until combined and very fluffy.

5. Form barbecue cloud buns by scooping 1/4 cup batter onto the parchment-lined sheet pans, spreading gently into 3-inch rounds with about 1 inch between. Sprinkle buns evenly with the reserved 4 teaspoons of chip crumbs. Each sheet pan should hold 5 buns. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tops are nicely browned. Allow the buns to cool on the sheet pan before assembling sandwiches.

6. Assemble sandwiches just before serving (cloud bread does not hold up to moisture). On one bun, layer 1 leaf lettuce, 1 slice tomato, one slice red onion, 2 ounces sliced roasted turkey, and a 3/4-ounce slice cheddar cheese, then top with a second bun.

Following these trends can help you stay on track for your 2023 goals, while also enjoying your wellness journey. Check out Atkins.com for more amazing recipes and helpful nutrition tips, and to explore products that you can order online or find at Walmart, Amazon, Target or your local retailer.

2022-12-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re interested in getting started with investing but you’re not sure what your first steps should be, you’re not alone. A recent survey by Magnifi found that one-third of Americans are planning to invest by themselves in 2023, but even though they want to invest on their own, nearly half of them (41%) don’t think they have the knowledge or confidence — and another one-fourth of them (27%) don’t even know where to begin. Today’s investors want independence to invest on their own, and the control to find and pick investments that are most important to them, but ultimately need personalized guidance so they’re not left guessing and gambling.

Fortunately, now it’s easier than ever to build a personalized investing plan and become a well-informed, confident investor backed by an investing assistant.

Here are some tips — and tools — to help you get started with investing this year.

1. Don’t be afraid to get started. Start small, with an investment that allows you to get a feel for the process of investing. Most brokerages offer fractional shares, which lets you dip your toe in when you’re just beginning. You can always add more investments as you further develop your plan and determine how much you want to invest over time.

2. Aim for diversification. This simply means not putting all your eggs in one investment basket. The truth is, diversification is easier than you may realize. You can accomplish this by buying a fund that holds a stock you’re interested in (as well as other investments) instead of just buying that single stock — or by adding a bond fund that will add fixed income and offset risk from equities investments. With an investment search engine, it can be easy to find a variety of investments and all the details about each investment to help you determine if it matches your goals.

3. Make a plan. Too often, investors will make one single purchase and never come back. Having an actual plan before getting started helps you determine how much you want to invest overall, and allows you to develop your strategy to invest regularly over time to take advantage of dollar cost averaging. Your plan can also help ensure that you’re investing in things that represent you and your priorities.

4. Invest in what you believe in. As you begin to realize how much more you can invest in, you might be surprised to find how easy it is to find investments that represent your personal values, such as social responsibility, and/or your interests (everything from electric vehicles to nanotechnology). The great thing about many modern online investing marketplaces is that you can find anything you want quickly, and even have fun investing.

5. Lean on technology. Thanks to the explosion of technology, you suddenly have the opportunity to make more informed — and more personalized — investing decisions. Now you can buy investments like you buy everything else, with the power of technology to make it simpler and quicker, as well as a better fit to your individual priorities.

Using the Magnifi app, for example, you can individually invest in strategies, ideas and values that are unique and important to you — using data, insights and market intelligence that will help you make more informed decisions to achieve your financial goals. If 2023 is the year you plan to make investing a serious part of your financial future, try AI-assisted investing from Magnifi Personal. This technology lets you speak with the app’s first-of-its-kind AI investing assistant, which uses cutting-edge technology to offer access to intelligence, education and guidance. The investing assistant uses robust “conversational AI,” so investing and getting answers about investing questions is as simple as texting. It’s like having an investing assistant on-call in your pocket at all times.

Excited to get started? Visit Magnifi.com/personal to learn more.

2022-12-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – While homeowners invest time and money to make their homes comfortable and energy efficient, one common denominator of comfort and energy efficiency is often overlooked — the air inside a home. The old saying “what’s out of sight is out of mind” applies not only to a home’s air, but also to the attic ductwork that delivers air to every room. Damaged or leaky attic ductwork can provide a path for conditioned air to escape into the attic and for particulates in the attic’s air to be released into other parts of the home.

The typical duct system in an attic loses between 25% and 40% of the heating or cooling energy put out by the heating and cooling system, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.¹ Air leakage can occur from holes in the attic ductwork or from poorly connected duct joints. As heated or cooled air is drawn into the attic space through holes and poor connections, energy dollars are used to heat or cool an unoccupied space. While heating and cooling bills will fluctuate according to changes in the weather pattern, an unexpected increase in energy bills may signal an issue with attic ducts.

Comparing a home’s energy usage to other similar-sized homes can also provide helpful insights about a home’s energy efficiency. Many utilities offer customers a report that shows how a home’s energy usage stacks up compared to other nearby homes of similar size. Heating or cooling bills that are higher than comparably sized homes in the area may indicate a problem with attic ducts.

An Owens Corning^® Air Care^TM contractor can identify problems with attic ductwork and recommend solutions to help improve comfort and reduce energy bills.² Resolving problems with leaky ducts can also help curb the wear and tear on HVAC equipment, potentially extending its operational life and protecting the homeowner’s investment in a high-efficiency comfort system.

Beyond reducing energy efficiency, problems with attic ductwork can adversely affect the quality of indoor air. An increase in household dust is a common sign that attic ductwork may be compromised. Holes or poor connections in ductwork can allow particulates from the attic space to enter the ducts and flow into rooms throughout the home. Dust accumulation on return air registers or heavier levels of dust inside the home may suggest a problem with ductwork.

A home’s age may also suggest an inspection of attic ductwork. The ductwork in many older homes was installed in accordance with much lower residential building codes. Depending on when a home was built, there may have been no codes targeting energy efficiency.

Issues with ductwork may sometimes be detected with a visual inspection — for example, disconnected ducts near registers or holes, tears and loose joints. But many times, the issues are more difficult to detect. That’s why it’s important to have an inspection conducted by a qualified contractor.

Owens Corning^® Air Care^TM contractors are equipped with the training and tools to evaluate an attic duct system’s integrity and the overall efficiency of the duct system. The contractor will use a fan and pressure gauge to conduct a basic duct leakage test to measure the extent of leakage in ducts. Thermal cameras will visualize where air from the ducts is escaping into unconditioned parts of the home. The contractor will also assess the airflow rate as a duct system’s efficiency is affected by leakage as well as fan flow. Depending on the findings, the Owens Corning^® Air Care^TM contractor can recommend a solution to address duct issues that may involve repairing, sealing or replacing one or more sections of ductwork.

Beyond ensuring that ductwork is properly connected and in good condition, other steps can contribute to comfortable and energy-efficient environments. Checking the furnace filter as directed by the manufacturer can reduce wear and tear and help keep a filter from becoming clogged. Installing a programmable thermostat can help reduce heating and cooling costs by turning up or down the temperature when occupants are not home. And finally, adequate levels of insulation inside the attic can help guard against heated air flowing into the attic in the winter, or hot attic air from entering air-conditioned parts of the home in the summer.

Considering the role that attic ductwork plays in supporting a home’s heating and cooling system, ensuring that a home’s ducts are in order can help homeowners support optimal comfort, energy efficiency and their investment in a high-efficiency home comfort system.

¹ U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy – Better Duct Systems for Home Heating and Cooling. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2022, 2021. https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:-LbuBMT3wVsJ:https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy05osti/30506.pdf+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us

² Savings vary. Find out why in the seller’s fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power.

©Owens Corning 2022. All rights reserved.

2022-12-26T23:15:00

(BPT) – When the calendar flips from one year to the next, “new year, new me” regularly comes back into the communal psyche. This oftentimes manifests through health-focused resolutions but can easily be applied to how business plans are formulated and how execution can be optimized for the year ahead.

Here are five areas small business (SMB) owners may want to focus on now to help them achieve their goals and respond to changing customer behavior in 2023.

1. Focus on infrastructure & supply

Investing in infrastructure or supply chain improvements that can optimize processes may help SMB owners reach their 2023 sales goals. This can be achieved with simple investments, such as purchasing new software, or more significant investments, such as identifying new suppliers or buying new equipment to fulfill orders more efficiently.

For Southern Elegance Candle Co., a North-Carolina based candle company, the ability to invest strategically in materials has been key to scaling their business and navigating supply chain issues. With financing from PayPal Working Capital¹, founder and CEO, D’Shawn Russell, was able to secure the volume of supplies the business needed to avoid manufacturing interruptions and keep up with demand.

“Having quick, convenient access to the funds we need to buy in bulk is critical for us to be able to stay in business,” says Russell. “It’s been a game-changer. Knowing that the funding is there when I need to invest in product gives me confidence as we grow the brand.”²

2. Connect the brand to the wider community

Now more than ever, consumers are interested in purpose-driven brands. According to a research study by Zeno, 94% of global consumers surveyed say it’s important that the companies they engage with have a strong purpose. This report also found that consumers are four times more likely to purchase from such companies and 4.5 times more likely to recommend them to friends and family. For Millennials and Gen Z, purpose is a key factor in their purchasing decisions, with research by Deloitte finding that the younger generations are more likely to pay a premium for brands that align with their sustainable values.

By analyzing brand values and the needs of the community of customers they serve, SMBs can identify authentic opportunities to integrate purpose-driven products or programs into their business plans. For ocean adventure brand Everyday California, balancing profit with purpose means partnering with 1% For The Planet. This allows them to donate 1% of their gross revenue to support environmental charities, such as Green Wave, that align with their brand identity and commitment to protecting the ocean.

3. Get ready for returns

For most businesses, the holiday season isn’t over after New Year’s, because they still must prepare for the wave of returns. According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, total returns of holiday merchandise sales account for $158 billion in lost holiday sales for U.S. retailers. While larger companies may have the infrastructure to support this volume, it can be particularly challenging for SMBs that may not have the capital to offset the cost of returns.

To help bridge this post-holiday cash flow gap, SMBs may want to consider applying for financing. Using a program like PayPal Working Capital, businesses can apply for fast access to help close any cash flow gaps resulting from return season. Brands can also use this efficient, flexible financing to invest in new stock that refreshes their offering and excites customers to exchange for value-added products rather than making straight returns.

4. Create opportunities for cross-selling

According to Invesp, existing customers are likely to spend more than new prospects. An increase in customer retention by just 5% can increase profits by at least 25%. To retain existing customers and increase profits, SMBs should look for ways to engage consumers post-sale.

One way SMBs can better engage their audience is by creating interactive video content that adds to a customer’s product or service experience. Research by Hubspot has found that video content is more memorable and popular for consumers than other forms. SMBs can take advantage of consumer interest in video in multiple ways, such as investing in video tutorials about how to use their products for their website or posting interactive glimpses into product development via short videos on social platforms.

During this post-sale activity, brands have an opportunity to engage with customers and cross-sell related items.

5. Expand offerings to keep customers engaged

Recent research from McKinsey found that customers are increasingly looking to try something new. As a result, it’s crucial for SMBs to have ready access to the capital they need to innovate quickly and provide the ever-changing novelty that customers are now hunting for.

When Big Red’s Hot Sauce was approaching their 10-year anniversary, founders Paul and Tasia Ford saw an opportunity to both engage their customers and celebrate the milestone by growing their product line with a set of 10 new flavors.

To help fund product expansion, they applied and were approved for a PayPal Business Loan³. The lending allowed them to navigate supply chain challenges more easily, so they could obtain enough of the bottles and packaging they needed to meet demand.

Paul Ford was impressed that the funding was “quick, efficient and immediate.”² This access to capital has helped them grow from three flavor offerings to 21 products in just the first 10 years of operation.

“In small business, timing is everything,” said Tasia Ford. “Having access to funds gives you the opportunity to be competitive in a very competitive market.”

The content of this article is provided for informational purposes only. You should consider obtaining independent business, tax, financial, and legal advice before making any business decision.

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1 The lender for PayPal Working Capital is WebBank, Member FDIC. Applicants must satisfy certain requirements to be eligible. Lender approval required – terms and conditions apply.

² Results or experiences may vary.

³ The lender for PayPal Business Loan is WebBank, Member FDIC. Applicants must satisfy certain requirements to be eligible. Lender approval required – terms and conditions apply.

2022-12-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – Good breath is important around the holidays, but good oral hygiene is important year-round. According to studies by the Oral Health Foundation, bad breath is often linked to foods high in sugar and acid — ingredients common in holiday favorite recipes!

“Knowing you have fresh breath and a dazzling smile can boost confidence to be ready for the upcoming party season or any social situation,” said Dr. Jeferson Santos, a restorative dentist at Eco-Friendly Dentistry.

Dr. Santos understands that sometimes it’s hard to say no to all the appetizing treats on the buffet table or at the bar, but moderation is key. Here are his six tips to improve your breath and smile, so you’re not left solo under the mistletoe and stay kissable all year long.

Dr. Santos recommends these easy-to-follow tips for great oral health:

1. Brush three times a day: Most people are great about brushing in the morning and before bed but skip out on the afternoon session. Consider packing a travel toothbrush and TheraBreath toothpaste for that after-lunchtime trip to the restroom.

2. Drink plenty of water: Good old-fashioned H2O does wonders for the body, including the mouth! Staying hydrated helps to reduce bacteria that cause tooth decay and bad breath.

3. Eat fruit: Consider adding oranges, melons, or berries to your diet. They are high in vitamins such as A, B, C, and E which help to prevent gingivitis and gum disease.

4. Cut alcohol consumption: Alcohol increases dry mouth resulting in more cavity-causing bacteria. Cut back on the strong drinks and try a no-alcohol mouth rinse like TheraBreath’s Invigorating Icy Mint, which uses the power of oxygen to target and eliminate bad breath-causing bacteria.

5. Avoid e-cigarettes and smoking: Nicotine is responsible for a number of oral health issues, including bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease, and significantly heightens the risk of periodontal disease by increasing the pocket depth of the gums.

Don’t pack your good oral hygiene habits away with the tinsel. Remember, Valentine’s Day is less than two months away!

2022-12-23T07:31:00

(BPT) – A new year is just around the corner, so it’s time to brainstorm resolutions and goals for 2023. If you’ve made resolutions in the past and haven’t stuck to them, you might be discouraged from even trying to make one for the coming year. It’s likely that the goals you picked weren’t attainable or sustainable for your life.

Instead of making lofty promises that are unachievable, start with small, modest changes that you can accomplish and build upon in years to come. Not sure where to start? Check out these five achievable goals for 2023.

1. Learn or resume a hobby

If you don’t have a hobby or have let it go by the wayside, dedicate some time this year to doing something you enjoy. Hobbies aren’t just activities we do for fun. They can have huge mental and physical health benefits.

According to VeryWell Mind, enjoyable activities can help you reduce stress, lower blood pressure and combat depression. You don’t have to engage in your hobbies every day to reap the benefits. One study showed that engaging in a physical leisure activity for 20 minutes a week helped people feel less fatigued.

Whether you get back into knitting or playing guitar or pick up a new hobby like painting or ballroom dancing, you’re carving out time for yourself that can take your mind off the stresses of everyday life.

2. Move your body

This year, make it a goal to get your body moving. That doesn’t mean you have to exercise every day for hours at a time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. That may sound like a lot, but it breaks down to 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Take it slow if you’re new to working out or it’s been a while since you’ve exercised. You can even break up 30 minutes of daily activity into smaller chunks. For example, you can do 10 minutes of brisk walking or aerobic exercises three times a day or 15 minutes twice a day. By breaking up your movement goal into smaller chunks, you can naturally find breaks throughout your day to get moving.

3. Invest in your health

If you want to live a long healthy life, you need to invest in your health. Nicole Avena, PhD, Associate Professor of Neuroscience, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Author of Why Diets Fail says, “In addition to a healthy and balanced diet and getting an adequate amount of exercise, it’s important to cover all your bases like adding daily vitamins to your health regimen. Each person’s dietary needs will vary slightly. While most people can get enough from diet alone, others may need to take a supplement, and nowadays, there are many vitamin options for men and women of all ages.”

To ensure that you receive essential nutrients, consider taking a daily multivitamin like vitafusion MultiVites which is an excellent source of 12 vitamins and minerals. Offering a selection of multivitamin gummies to support the consumer’s unique needs, vitafusion is America’s #1 adult gummy vitamin brand and the only gummy vitamin brand with a fusion of natural fruit flavors. To learn more, visit vitafusion.com.

4. Mindfulness

You’ve probably heard about mindfulness, but do you know what it is and its benefits? Simply put, mindfulness is being aware and fully present in your body, mind and environment. According to the National Institutes of Health, practicing mindfulness can have several positive impacts on your health and well-being, including reducing anxiety and depression, lowering blood pressure and improving sleep.

A popular way to practice mindfulness is meditation, but it’s not the only way. You can practice breathing or grounding exercises, go on a walk or take stock of how your body is feeling in the present moment. Mindfulness practices can be short or long, but to start, you can carve out five minutes a day in the morning or at night to get in touch with your awareness.

5. Improve your finances

A common New Year’s resolution is to be better about saving and spending. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 72% of adults report feeling stressed about money at least some of the time. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan for improving your financial well-being, there are simple ways to assess your finances and target areas for improvement.

In January, track all your income and expenses. You can do this by using an expense sheet, or you can download an app to make things easier. Once you know where your money is coming from and where it’s going, you can identify areas where you could be spending less and saving more and set financial goals for the year.

Small changes can add up quickly and turn into life-long habits. Using these five tips, you can start the year on the right foot and invest in yourself now and for years to come.