Quench thy thirst with electrolytes

It is not unusual for us to see people every day that looked tired and all haggard on our bus ride home. They are the ones who stagger out of their seat and inch by inch slowly losing their way to consciousness because of the physical and mental stress of working or studying or whatever type of activity it might be.

Humans are now known to constantly push their body limits to its brim, and we cannot deny the fact exerting more effort means more work done. True enough, those who are so pre-occupied within the whole duration of the day are the same people who don’t have the luxury to even replenish themselves of a cold glass of water.

The incessant demands of this kind of lifestyle, not only compromise your health, but also might even lose you some equally important things. And so one of the most known armor that people nowadays are using to ensure that they will not just fall into the void of sickness is through one-minute wonders for the health.

Electrolytes play an essential role in keeping the body energized and fully functioning despite the weight of activity a person would do. Normally, electrolytes are found in sports drinks, which is most known to be patronized by athletes.

Those who use physical strength in their day-to-day endeavors require a balanced meal and a constant intake of electrolytes to get the body working at its optimum level. Electrolytes are mainly comprised of sodium, calcium, hydrogen phosphate, carbonate and magnesium chloride.

These vitamins and nutrients are deemed to very beneficial to our bodies to reach our full potential. 

Aside from athletes, electrolytes are also vital to people who are pregnant, those who have strenuous physical activity as a daily routine and laborers in general.

Electrolytes in sports drinks might not be a quick replacement to the wonders that water intake can do, but this is an effective way of quenching your thirst and giving the necessary things the body requires.

People, being the creative lot, now have ways and means in creating electrolyte drinks just at the comfort of their very homes. Crafting your own electrolyte drink would not only save you money but you’d be surprised to know that the ingredients are just within your reach.

Aside from cost-cutting, doing your own electrolyte drinks would make you feel secure because you would know what you can put in and what you can omit. And the best part of all is that you don’t need to stay within the confinement of store-bought sports drinks because you can follow whatever your taste palate desires.

The options are limitless and you’d be delighted to realize that being healthy can never be this convenient and fun. The main composition that you’d want to consider before concocting your power electrolyte drink is the presence of cold water and salt.

You can mix in some of your favorite fruits for added nutrients such as lemon, lime, honey, cranberry, orange, coconut water, strawberries and natural sugars. Experimentation would be observed at best when you’re on the move in doing this healthy action and feel free to share this with your loved ones, too.

http://laurenceourac.com/quench-thy-thirst-with-electrolytes/

Start early and stress the importance of oral health to the younger ones

Teaching and stressing the importance of good hygiene to children is important and can definitely bring long term effect on their lives. Forming a habit at an early age is undeniably beneficial in maintaining excellent health.

One of the most neglected aspects, however, is observing and maintaining oral hygiene. While it shouldn’t be normal, it’s usual for us to see toddlers smiling with tooth decay. They say, having healthy, unstained pearls are a representation of a good overall state of health. And this is something that both kids and adults should bear in mind.

Emphasizing and reinforcing oral care for kids is a responsibility of parents and other adults whom they are growing up with. We can understand that toddlers can be stubborn at times and teaching them to form a habit can be really frustrating and time consuming.

Keep in mind the importance of having healthy teeth and arm yourself with tons of patience. This must be challenging, but being creative can go a long way.

Prepare the child by creating a mood of excitement whenever toothbrush time comes. For first timers, make sure to brush the kid’s teeth and gums as gentle as possible. Being harsh can traumatize the kid and can bring problem on the succeeding tooth brushing sessions. Be imaginative and create games and role playing to get the attention and engagement of the child.

Use baby toothpaste. These are specially formulated and gentler to a kid’s delicate tooth and gums. You may resort to the flavored ones to add fun and thrill. Even stimulate the child’s imagination by using a toothbrush with an interesting design and color.

Captivating the child’s attention in a good way will definitely help parents and adults in facilitating tooth brushing in a smoother manner.

Aside from teaching the child the right way of cleaning the teeth and mouth, instill the importance of observing the food they eat. While the majority of kids are into sweets, it is the task of adults around them to control their sugar intake.

If possible, avoid giving them chocolates and candies. We all know how toddlers can go crazy over anything sugary. Limit the amount and resort to healthier alternatives like fruits and yogurts.

http://laurenceourac.com/start-early-and-stress-the-importance-of-oral-health-to-the-younger-ones/

Believe in the wondrous effects of guava and guava leaves

We all have known guava as a fruit that’s being heralded as one great source of Vitamin C and some other minerals. Normally being grown in Asian countries, guava has a respectable list of medicinal and health benefits due to its rich content of compounds such as Vitamin A, fiber, potassium and lycopene.

But little did we know that aside from the fruit bore from the guava tree; one wonder that can be harnessed from it is the powers of guava leaves. Truthfully, guava leaves are as astoundingly beneficial as the fruit and below are some of the things you’d be shocked to know about how these leaves, normally overlooked, can aid you in ways unimaginable.

One thing that you must know beforehand is that the guava leaves are not to be eaten directly. Experts have suggested that guava leaves should be sterilized in boiling water and the resulting mix must be the one that a person should intake.

If this plan won’t work, there have been readily available tablets and capsules of guava leaves which have undergone scientific laboratory tests and manufactured with high-quality standards. Some health companies put in guava leaves concentrate, in powder form, on their supplements and dietary products.

One thing that guava leaves can definitely help you out at is by losing weight. The leaves have the capacities of stopping carbohydrates from being turned into sugars. This very act would then minimize unnecessary food cravings and sugars not piling up on your body would be a good kick start in dieting, or even lower down the body’s glucose levels.

Lycopene is known to be an important component of guava and guava leaves. If so, the leaves and the fruit can easily be of aid in fighting off cancers due to the antioxidant content via lycopene. Though not strongly backed-up by a known scientific research, the sheer presence of lycopene is known to combat breast, oral and prostate cancers.

If you have a very upset stomach, or any funny feeling happening on your abdomen, seek the wonder of guava leaves to flush it all out. The strong anti-bacterial properties would create a fresh slate for your digestion and even result to better absorption of food in the long run.

Guava leaves can also be used in healing colds since it triggers the body with substances to block mucous production and slow down the spread of microbial activities which is one of the normal reasons of colds and flu.

Other benefits that you can harness from guava and guava leaves are: reduction of allergies and its side effects, soothing of skin bites, oral malfunctions and toothaches, combating acne, delaying hair loss and aging skins via skin dilapidation, eyesight improvement through the vitamin A content, diminish risks of constipation through its high-dietary fiber composition, brain health aid via the presence of vitamin B3 or Niacin, keeping your thyroid happy through copper contents and a more controlled blood pressure.

http://laurenceourac.com/believe-in-the-wondrous-effects-of-guava-and-guava-leaves/

Auricular therapy, a treatment that lies on your ears

Also called ear acupuncture, the practice of auricular therapy and its effectiveness has been known even during the ancient age. Studies have proven favorable results to those who have tried this kind of alternative treatment.

Health practitioners pointed out the fact that the ear has a certain map of pulse points that correspond to each part of the body and that stimulating a certain area in the ear can alleviate the pain caused by an organ located in another region of the human frame.

Ear acupuncture is said to bring betterment when it comes to several health conditions such as pains, allergies, headaches and even addiction. Doctors dug deeper and the movement of understanding the role of the ears for the overall well-being has emerged. It is believed that this practice originated from an early Chinese era where the tradition of acupuncture was born.

However, it is during the 1880’s that this way of treatment has gained much interest. Western Europe has developed and expanded the study for a clearer understanding of the micro system that hides on the human ears.

Hitting the right point and pricking it with the use of a needle can track and treat the problems underlying inside the body. Stimulating the right dot on the ear can lessen the pain and other ailment manifestations.

Acupuncture experts determine a person’s state of health by assessing the texture, skin color and impression of the veins in the areas of the around the ear. Disposable needles with small beads are being used and are inserted millimeters from the surface of the skin.

Performing this can aid migraine, insomnia, indigestion and inflammation. The speed of feeling the effect of auricular therapy can vary from each patient though. Some feel relaxed while other experience light headedness.

While there are those who feel immediate improvement, some on the other hand takes a series of sessions before getting palpable results. It is important to get the help of a licensed practitioner because the treatment requires complex implementation and keen executes.

http://laurenceourac.com/auricular-therapy-a-treatment-that-lies-on-your-ears/

Take a break with purpose

Every move of the long hand of the clock is important. The seconds are valued as much as the hours. We’re always on the race with every round of the clock. It is an everyday occurrence; so much it became our day-to-day basis.

While this situation rake in the benefits and shortens the distance between you and your dreams, it is still being encouraged for everyone to take a break – a break as productive as being at work.

There is a notion going on with breaks being a respite from work where what you do is not as productive as being at work and further “break times” could be considered laziness. It is partly true; however, there are breaks, which can be considered as a productive one. This comes in the form of hobbies where the time spent at breaks are used in more purposeful terms and can even improve the quality of life. How?

Work overload is a stressful moment. It takes the life out of what you want to do and the once clear goal get blurry. At times, you count the seconds until your nine-to-five shift is finally over. Most times the question of how to do this will cease and signals the beginning of doubt and impatience: “Why do I have to do this?” Your purpose of achieving your dream through work, work, and work will then be a stone to stumble instead of a stone to step on.

A hobby will break this monotony. It helps to take your mind off the things that worries you. It is not necessarily running away from the problem. Instead, it is a reprieve to avoid getting drowned in the mass of negative energy.

Picking a hobby that interest you will bring the color back into life and prevents dwelling in the past and worrying about the future. This feeling of staying present will consequently lead to more focused self; and thus makes the person stronger to face the dilemma at hand.

Apart from offering reprieve and bringing the focus back clear towards the end game, it is another way to expand your social circle. Surrounding one’s self with others, especially of the same interest can elicit a feeling of excitement.

This exposure to other people helps build a connection, which may even lead to friendship. Another benefit of exposure to a different surrounding can help build character through a newfound or improved vision of how you see the world.

On the other hand, having hobbies does not only build one’s character, but also help improve it physically. Studies suggest a correlation between your depressed moments and body condition such as blood pressure and body mass index. Distracting yourself with activities interesting you prevents the rise of blood pressure and helps keeps your body mass index normal.

With these benefits, we can then tell hobbies are important. However, it is still essential not to push yourself into taking anything available. Pick what really interests you and make sure it comes to you naturally, or it may end up as another layer on the pile of your worries.

http://laurenceourac.com/take-a-break-with-purpose/

Simple beauty tips for the summer

Summer is just around the corner, and everyone is excited to get a tan, wear dresses and flaunt your summer bod with your favorite bikinis on the most awaited beach trip you have been planning with your friends and family this year.

But Mr. Sun can be harsh and work against these plans because it is also the sweat, sunburn, dry hair and skin season.

But do not worry, there are beauty hacks that will surely save your perfect summer below:

Put on a Sunscreen

If your dermatologists demand that you wear SPF all year, what more when it is summer where the sun is at its hottest?

That is why it is not enough to put it just once or twice, but you have to reapply all throughout the day for more protection.

Hydrate

8 glasses of water a day is good, but try to add more classes during the summer and do not forget to drink water because it can make your skin look parched and lifeless and can also cause other health issues.

So better fill your body up with fluids for a natural glow that cannot be faked by your favorite bronze.

Treat your hair

Give importance to your crowning glory by treating it with your daily conditioner or a treatment conditioner.

Treatment conditioners can instantly nourish the hair and repairs it from damage that is perfect for the summer beauty survivor of every girl.

Discover the tinted moisturizer

Experiment with the beauty “multitaskers” such as the BB or CC cream.

You can use this and can get the coverage you want without sacrificing the skin hydration you need.

Bring oil-blotting sheets

Heat makes the skin produce more oil, and oil can attract dirt and bacteria that leading and cause an acne.

Bring oil-blotting film or tissue with you wherever you go, so the only thing that’ll shine is the sun and not your T-zone.

http://laurenceourac.com/simple-beauty-tips-for-the-summer/

Perform massage and be closer to your pet

We know that there are different forms in which we can convey love. And this does not discount our trusted and dear pets from the equation. We all know that constant touching and fondling send out a direct message of our concern and care for them. This act in return is being compensated by their loyalty, faith to their master/human companion.

The importance and benefits of pet massage has been long pointed out even during ancient Egypt, China and even the early Romans. Just like its effects on human, massage promotes better blood circulation and reduces stress. The art of touching boosts the bond between the pet and its care provider.

There are several reasons why pets acquire stress. Sound is one of the factors that can cause stress and behavior change toward pets. As we all know, some animals possess sharp hearing that they can hear even the slightest sound made by the needle that fell on the floor.

Amazing as it may seem, this knowledge alone can make us imagine the impact of loud sound made by heavy music or intense noise made by fireworks. Another reason for stress would be lack of exercise.

Some pets that stay at home tend to be lazy and that routinely walks sometimes being ignored. This weakens the muscle and joints that affect the overall health of your animal best friend.

Focus on key areas of your pet’s physique to achieve specific results. Massaging ears and ear flaps will help your pet relax. Head area, especially that of surrounds the eyes can target your pet’s stomach and bladder.

Touch this circuit to promote better digestion and excretion. Focusing on the spine and back will alleviate any illness connected to core pains and vomiting. Do this when the pet is experiencing said conditions to deliver comfort and relief.

Leg and elbows on the other hand targets allergies your pet may or can have while back toes are your one stop area to cover most parts of the body.

Make sure to do the massage in a tender and gentle manner to prevent any type of inconvenience that might lead to your pet’s unbecoming reaction. Massaging your pet regularly will not only make its health better, it will also draw that beloved being even closer for a tighter bond and connection.

http://laurenceourac.com/perform-massage-and-be-closer-to-your-pet/

Live healthier through water fitness

Sweat is part of the workout. While this is the body’s form of saying that muscles are being stimulated through increased heart rate, there are some find dripping sweat bothersome and irritating. 

Well, worry no more for those who are not fond of excessive perspiration, but still want to be fit because water fitness may just be the ideal work out for you.

Aquatic work out is the type of exercise being performed while immersed in water. This is as challenging as any other forms of land exercise that’s available out there. While sweat may not be palpable in this kind of workout, it offers same extent or even more when it comes to strengthening the muscles and challenging the body in general.

Remember that moving while being submerged in the water requires resistance. Resisting in water measures around 4 to 42 times greater than doing any types of routines while performing land work outs.

This being said means water fitness is an effective way of making the muscles work in an added effort. Blame buoyancy, muscles can go further when it comes to the enhancement of the body, especially in doing high performance tasks like running or strenuous activities.

While this is the case, studies claim that water workouts are gentler on joints and muscles because of the low impact it proved that minimize the occurrence of strain and injury that’s most likely common in land physical activities.

Many who are engrossed with water fitness compare how kinder doing exercises in water are with their joints. They feel no creaking while getting the same effect as they have by doing land lunges.

Water fitness is a full body workout that not only focuses on the muscles but also with the organs within. According to Charlene Kopansky who happens to be the founder of Canadian Aquafitness Leaders Alliance, hydrostatic pressure, turbulence and buoyancy assist in venous return [the flow of blood back to the heart] and lymphatic drainage. These extra benefits help explain why participants feel so good after a class—the body is refreshed rather than exhausted.

Aside from swimming, many water exercises are made available to those who love the water and want to be fit at the same time. There’s water aerobics and aqua yoga that anyone can try – young and old. Find one that best fits you and move your way for a better, stronger body.

http://laurenceourac.com/live-healthier-through-water-fitness/

TomTom Spark Music Cardio, Running the watch that has thought of everything

The best way to succeed – or at least improve – a product, it is certain to take into account user feedback. And it was to this argument that the TomTom manufacturer presents its new running watch, the Spark, little starlet IFA in Berlin. If it looks close enough to the Muti-Sport cardio, Spark brings a new feature that, for sure, will appeal to sports.

And we must admit that the idea is good, although not entirely new. Wear the Android or Apple Watch watches allow to do so. Anyway, the user lifts regularly evoke they continue to use their smartphones to listen to current music. And even if it is placed in a cuff, the sensation is often unpleasant.

That’s why Spark incorporates a 3 GB memory. It is not a panacea, but it still allows to make a playlist of about 500 songs. Also welcome the initiative of TomTom who delivers his watch, “Running Trax”, a collection of tracks rhythmic (to run, is better) composed by the London club Ministry of Sound and equivalent to about 30 minutes of music.

Obviously, meanwhile, Bluetooth technology is to connect the watch to a wireless headset. The music then driven from the watch or headset, if equipped with buttons. However, TomTom gives no indication on the autonomy of the watch.

In addition to these innovations, the Spark takes the equipment that we loved on the Multi-Sport cardio, namely the heart rate sensor, GPS chip, sealing 40 meters and uses different profiles (biking, swimming , carpets, running) to which in also adds two new: the gym and freestyle. This latter mode is especially for use during a fitness session (for example) or for downhill skiing.

Spark always shares his measures through mobile MySport (iOS and Android), or by USB by connecting to a computer. Finally, TomTom indicates that the Spark will receive a software update at the end of the year, which will provide him with calls and message notification features when connected to the smartphone.

No price is published to Spark, whose availability is scheduled for October. Other versions, including without cardio sensor, will also be proposed to target the widest audience possible.

http://laurenceourac.com/tomtom-spark-music-cardio-running-the-watch-that-has-thought-of-everything/

Environment-Friendly hacks to keep the temperature cool

There are moments in a year when the heat is just not tolerable anymore. Even without movement, you can feel the heat of the summer caressing your skin so much like you’re hugging a flat iron, and sweat would definitely come next.

Normally, during the humid season, we have relied onto the cooling effects of an air-conditioned house or room to alleviate further stress caused by this inevitable occurrence.

We have succumbed and surrendered in battling heat the natural way, and little did we know that often the use of air-conditioning systems would all add up to the heat via the Greenhouse Effect.

You might have rolled your eyes at this thought, but the truth is, there are hundreds of ways in keeping the temperature down and low through creative and nature-friendly alternatives that we just have discarded.

We all have been guilty of letting our Mother Nature down, now, it is time to pay back by not adding up to the problem and embracing solutions that might be lying somewhere all along.

Below are some tips and hacks in keeping the temperature more acceptable, budget friendly and easily accessible.

If your bed is made with the most luxurious fabric because you can afford it, then do a quick switch in donning the bed, mattresses and pillow sheets with an economical alternative which is cotton.

Cotton is known to be a breathable kind of fabric and is light-weight which means that you won’t be sweating during your sleep despite how hot the ambient temperature is.

This switch can also be done on your wardrobe by picking cotton-made garments which will keep the cool hugging you all day long.

By being smart about what to wear, sporting cotton-finished garments would do you loads of comfort in and out of the house.

And if we are to avoid turning on that inviting AC system, then you have no option but to use fans to keep the air circulated within a room. Making the most out of this appliance would mean a better-tempered house or room.

Instead of just letting the fan be stuck in a corner, get this working even better by placing it about face from a window so that all the humidity would be sucked out Putting a bowl of ice in front of it would be resulting to a cooler air dominating the room.

Before going to bed, or if you have the luxury of doing it, take a quick trip to the bathroom. Short baths can significantly lower down hot body temperatures and maintain a more acceptable rate afterwards.

The wonder of water can also be channeled by ensuring that you are hydrated well all throughout the day. This would not only stray you away from being parched, a body that’s hydrated appropriately equates the optimum use of energy even when the temperature is sweltering.

Maximize the benefits of water by also putting a bowl of water at your bedside so as you have a quick soaking section for your feet when you’ve been woken up by the disturbing heat of the night.

If you have a two-storey or x-storey house, stay on the lowest part of it since we all know that heat is always on top through buoyancy.

Get back to your Physics class and be reminded that the lower you are from a specific place, staying at the lowest level possible would mean a cooler temperature to the touch.

Turning off your lights and bedside lamps would also decrease the chance of accumulating more heat and make sure to unplug all unnecessary appliances and devices because electricity can be causes of ambient heat, too.

http://laurenceourac.com/environment-friendly-hacks-to-keep-the-temperature-cool/

Tea party: Variation and types

It is no doubt that tea is the most celebrated drink that helps promote good health and treat illnesses. This is an ancient way of encouraging a healthier state and removing away toxins and unnecessary components for a better functioning body.

Teas uniquely contain nutrients and properties that target numbers of health conditions for better shape. Drinking tea is an all-natural resort to maintain an excellent well-being.

While it is true that teas come from the Camellia sinensis plant, varieties are made available to the market. Each kind has its unique characteristics that differs one from another.

The taste and aroma can vary depending on the season and climate the tea leaves are harvested from. Since there are different types of teas that are formulated, it was decided to divide it in groups to obtain a better understanding for each type.

Major types include black tea, white tea, green tea, herbal tea and Oolong tea. Each came from a different way of air exposure that makes each taste and aroma different from others.

Black tea is the most popular amongst all varieties. This is being prepared with the use of young leaves, rolled dried then fired. This has a close taste for coffee because of its bitter flavor. This kind of tea has theaflavins and thearubigins – antioxidants that are responsible for lowering cholesterol in the body. Drinking a cup or two per day can lessen the risk of stroke by around 20%.

White teas possess a milder flavor. Leaves are being harvested during a very young state. This undergoes the least, but delicate process. Studies prove that the contents found in white tea can combat the potential occurrence of cancer and cardiovascular related illnesses to one’s health.

Green teas are unoxidized that results to the vivid green in color that they are. To avoid oxidation, the leaves are dried and heated after they are picked that halts the process of fermentation.

This brings a distinct delicate flavor that’s popular in most regions in Asia. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that are said to lower cardiovascular diseases by around 10%.

Herbal teas did not come from the mother plant Camellia Sinensis. This is a fusion of dried herb leaves, fruits and sometimes flowers. Often referred to as Tyson, this type can be even broken to three subgroups namely Rooibos, matte and herbal infusion. These are caffeine free that’s also great for those who cannot tolerate the effect of palpitation coffee brings to some people.

Oolong tea is like black tea with a richer flavor. Oolong teas are the matured leaves that are picked, dried, oxidized and fried. This type is usually being used for weight loss due to its calorie-burning contents.

http://laurenceourac.com/tea-party-variation-and-types/

Traditional books are yet to part

Development in technology has seeped its way through human lifestyle and dug itself among the activities of everyday living, including the simple pleasures brought forth by reading.

Amazon, Kindle, and Wattpad, are but a few communities formed by the digital era where books are compressed in a small few-pound weighing gadget. Anywhere and anytime, it is revolutionary.

And while many are transitioning to e-books, the good, old traditional book is yet to be uprooted. 

There are obvious benefits of e-books, but the traditional books have also some to brag and those are the reasons why the old-fashioned paperbacks are still here to stay today, or thereafter.

Getting the full experience of reading
Browsing online for books stands in stark contrast to searching in the library for something to read. Digital libraries are convenient; a few clicks and less mobilization entices a busy man. However, the act of running your fingers through spines and the smell of the pages is undisputed pleasures. The experience is also less constricted, offering a deep-seated response and a chance to stumble across different kinds of genre you’d thought you will never like.

Shared and passed to anyone
The traditional books open up the door of sharing what you’ve read to your friends or families. They can be rented, borrowed, or be given as a gift to someone. Receiving a book on your birthday for example, holds a sentimental value and encourage the receiver to read; as they trust the giver to give them a worthwhile book of their taste.

Boosts comprehension
According to studies, physical pages are better device for comprehension. It provides less distraction and every flip of pages gives the brain a different experience leading to better understanding. If you want a help in grasping the context of what you’ve read, traditional books will help keep the ideas solid in your mind.

The art is much appreciated
Every word woven with another to form a sentence unique from the others in order to elicit a specific response from the reader is an art on it; however, the realm of art is more explored and appreciated in the old traditional books. The physical book covers offers a different feel over the pixel ones. The details are better observed, adding another layer of wonder to the tale told by words.

The tales end, but the memory stays
As a child, many of us are exposed to books and digging through the dusty cardboard boxes containing what we love as a child brings warm memories. The bedtime tales, a cookie and a glass of milk, and a kiss on the forehead before the lights went off is sure to put a smile on anyone’s faces even on their bad days.

http://laurenceourac.com/traditional-books-are-yet-to-part/

The power of cauliflower

Whether it is cooked or raw, the cauliflower is one of the healthiest foods in the world and it is available year-round. Other green vegetables may contain more chlorophyll while cauliflower is rich in nutrients and, like its cousins, cabbage, kale, and broccoli. It also provides health-promoting compounds that cannot be found in many other vegetables.

You surely want to include cauliflower as one of the vegetables you eat on a regular basis because if you want to receive the health benefits provided by the vegetable family, cauliflower is one of the best sources that will give fantastic health benefits to you.

Eating one cup of raw cauliflower will provide 77% of your vitamin C needs, 20% of vitamin K, 10% or more of vitamin B-6 and folic acid needs for the day, as well as the smaller amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and manganese.

Consuming cauliflower has long been associated with a reduced risk of many adverse health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of it decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and overall mortality while promoting a healthy complexion, increased energy, and overall lower weight.

Cauliflower can also help in cancer prevention, particularly with the following types of cancer: bladder cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer.

This connection between cauliflower and cancer prevention should not be surprising because cauliflower provides special nutrient that support not just one, but for three body systems that are closely connected with cancer development as well as cancer prevention.

These three systems are the body detox system, the antioxidant system, and the inflammatory or anti-inflammatory system.

Cauliflower is most commonly found fresh or frozen. When choosing fresh cauliflower, look for a firm head with no dark spots and bright green leaves attached to the stem. Just remember that you can only store it in the refrigerator for up to five days.

http://laurenceourac.com/the-power-of-cauliflower/

Reap off the benefits of reading

In this modern world where there is so much to do, we will do (and pay) anything to save time. Every second is as important as every piece of grain to the sower, since every second spent wisely will reap a bounty of benefits.

This is the reason why screen ubiquity is imminent. If you can know the story for two hours through watching, why spend more than that by reading the book? Simply because reading has its benefits worthy of a portion of your time.

Enhances memory and makes you smarter

Reading exposes you into the vast world of vocabulary fifty percent faster than watching television, as you are acquainted to fifty percent more words.

In consequence, this will give you a higher comprehension than those who reads infrequently. And apart from better vocabulary and comprehension, those who reads frequently scores higher on intelligence tests.

A study on neurology reported on Huffington Post acts as a brain stimulator, which prevents decline of memory by 32 percent.

Might prevent Alzheimer’s disease

On a similar note, but with high impact, reading and other brain exercises decrease the risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease by 2.50 times while watching television purely may do the opposite as reported in USA Today.

Just like the rest of the body, our brain also needs exercise, though mental challenges in order to strengthen them.

Purposeful leisure

Leisure time, usually involve taking a relaxing stroll with your dog or simply sitting on a couch and enjoying the minute of silence.

While these are effective relaxations, reading beats the former by furthering the cause. Not only it helps relax you faster, but also provides many things to learn along the way.

Influences your perspective

What you read does not end together with the last word of the story. Each book you’ve come across and will come across can make an influence on how you see things in the world may it be small or have a big impact.

Even with though the protagonist of the story or the other characters of the story has some bad traits, the gods are still highlighted especially when the obstacles are overcome through the characters strong points. These are the cause of admiration, and in a way can be adapted by the reader.

Develops empathy

As studies suggest, reading, especially literary fiction develops one’s empathy.

Reading gives the readers a glimpse of the complex character a person can have and thus this familiarity helps understand what the others may be thinking or feeling.

http://laurenceourac.com/reap-off-the-benefits-of-reading/

Toothbrush can work in mysterious ways

Brushing the teeth is such an indispensable part of our daily existence that whenever we miss doing it, we felt like missing a friend or have lost an important accessory.

We do this twice or thrice a day and it will be no surprise to have seen our toothbrushes wither away like an old-aged woman.

Dentists have instructed and advised everyone to replace our toothbrush at least every two months and once a toothbrush’s life is done, it is doomed to be trash.

The cost of a single, generic toothbrush might be something that we can earn in a minute and purchasing a new one won’t even budge the budget, but if you were the resourceful type, you’d surely think twice before throwing it away.

Have you heard of recycling? Yes, well this can also apply to your trusted toothbrush. Below are some tricks and tips to lengthen the life of these teeth cleaners and before you say this would rather be unhygienic, just give it a try and read on.

As a cleaning tool, use your old toothbrush to remove unwanted spots that are hard to reach by the conventional kitchen or utility brushes.

The slim nature and head of your toothbrush is capable of scrubbing tile gaps on your kitchen, remove scum from your bathroom drain or clean the seemingly unreachable parts of your sink.

The brush has the same capabilities of a rough cleaning pad, and so it works exactly the same way. 

For those who have kids, use the toothbrush as a mighty tool in removing bubble gum stains off your precious little ones’ clothing and beat the struggle of doing so.

If you have quite a number of laptops and keyboards in the house, use your old toothbrush to remove the grit and crumbs that have been stuck underneath and in-between keyboard keys as if you have a miniaturized vacuum cleaner that won’t cost you a fortune.

Toothbrush can also be a gentler way to clean and disinfect your antique and expensive jewelries because it can seep on even the smallest locks and holes.

Be creative enough in introducing toothbrush’s aid on your daily kitchen dramas. For the little husk hairs of your corn cob, get a brand new toothbrush and be delighted at how these silky strands fall off with ease.

Keep your coffee maker filters free of any excess coffee grounds from getting the power of your toothbrush’s small and fine tips working. Your can opener might be an awesome kitchen tool at its best, but when used over time, this can be saturated with grime and food marks.

Soak it in soapy water and with a little swish of your toothbrush; flip it like it’s a brand new kitchen savior.

For beauty and cosmetics, toothbrushes have been an essential tool since time immemorial. Some of the few tricks that you can use toothbrushes with are de-clumping your mascara, tame your uncooperating hair ends, taming the eyebrows and styling it at the same time, can also be a quirky template for your nail art, exfoliate dry and chapped lips, be an instant nail dirt remover and can help you out in hair coloring as your reliable color applicator.

http://laurenceourac.com/toothbrush-can-work-in-mysterious-ways/

The option of having a home birth

Before the advanced medical technology, giving birth at home was the norm. But considering how modern the world is, today, there are still women who opt to give birth at home. When you say home birth, it doesn’t literally mean that you will give birth to yourself. It includes the participation of midwives, nurses and other trained professionals. Is home birth for you?

Home birth may be an option for you if you are having a healthy, low-risk pregnancy, meaning that there’s no complications during your pregnancy; if you want to avoid operation (caesarian section operation); if you want to be comfortable moving around your house during labor; and if you want to be surrounded by your family and loved ones.

Home birth is not recommended for you if you are diabetic; when have experienced preterm labor during your past pregnancies; if you are at risk of preterm labor now; and if your partner does not support this kind of birth process.

Home birth may be significantly more affordable compared to giving birth in the hospital. It is said that an average uncomplicated vaginal birth costs about 60% less in a home that in a hospital.

Home birth also provides immediate bonding and breastfeeding. Breastfeeding helps the mother to stop bleeding, clears mucus from the baby’s nose and mouth and most important of all, it transfers disease- fighting antibodies in the milk. For those first time moms, it would be more comfortable to give a breastmilk to your baby when you are surrounded by people dear to you.

Home birth allows you to be surrounded by the people dearest to your heart. By including children, spouse and people dear to your heart during the birth process will provide you much understanding from them that will help you heal physically and emotionally.

http://laurenceourac.com/the-option-of-having-a-home-birth/

Once upon A-merican Time

And then there’s that so- called “American Time.” Americans are known for their value for time. That’s why it was called American Time. When you give a deadline, they will comply with it. But how important it is to be on time?

They say that punctual people are admired and respected. They gain it without asking for it. It is because people see how they value their time and other people’s time. Time is something that you can never get back.

So when, you were attended on time. It means a lot. It means that you are important. Being on time demonstrates that you are diligent and dependable. If you come on time in any appointments that you have, it means that you honor your commitments and you can be trusted.

That you respect other people’s time and you set a good example to other people too. It is said that punctual people build self –confidence, trust and success.

One of the common traits of successful people is that they view their time as a precious resource. 

When you are late for an appointment with a person who value their time, you will waste their valuable asset and they will also think that you are rude and does not respect them.

You might also get an impression of being irresponsible. And I believe you don’t want to brand yourself like that.

You should also make an effort to be on time for personal commitment, not just for your business- related transactions. Valuing your friend’s time will earn their respect for you. Gaining someone’s respect is an important part of your individual reputation.

Yes, there would be circumstances that may arise and it won’t be possible to be always on time. But if you know that you’ll be late, make sure to make a call as soon as possible. This will allow the other person to plan or adjust their schedule.

Always remember that there is no downside in being early, but, there is a significant downside of being late.

http://laurenceourac.com/once-upon-a-merican-time/

Make your statement at your doorstep

The door welcomes anyone who steps in your home. And it is important that we care on its general appearance. With that being said, it is important to have a good, quality doormat at your doorstep.

Doormats, do not just beautify your space, but it also keep your floor in perfect condition. It also keeps your home from germs, making it dirt- free. But how will you make a statement at the door with a great doormat?

It is not impossible to make your entryway look appealing. You just need to make sure to choose quality and beautiful doormat. All you need to consider is both feet are fit and feet are comfortable onto the mat.

You also need to make sure that it is in good condition and quality, resistant materials like rubber, coir and bamboo. Also, it should withstand tough weather conditions and should be easy to clean as well.

Choose a color or pattern that will make a good impression of your home as soon as they step in at your doorstep. Here are some of the ideas you might want to check out:

Personalized doormats with written messages. These are the mats with the most appealing sense. It’s like having the first words you’ll say to your visitors before they enter your home.

You may also choose funny messages and your guests will surely appreciate your sense of humor.

Doormats with drawings. You can choose doormats with drawings of animals or some fun drawing depending on what type of person you are. You can also consider partnering it to your home design or theme.

Colors and patterns. Colors and patterns can make an impression and a statement. You may choose striking colors that will get your guest’s attention. As for the shape, the bolder will be better.

Having a welcoming entryway will make your guests think that you are a good host. It’s also important that it is always clean to make a good impression on what’s inside.

http://laurenceourac.com/make-your-statement-at-your-doorstep/

Less fat, less worries

Fats, a product of meat and poultry and any other food related to meats, caused a greater percentage of deaths due to heart attacks and cardiac failures. Many institutions keep on finding a way on how to prevent this life-taking the substance.

They release many information about heart attacks and failures and how it can be prevented. They teach the method of measuring fat intake through the Recommended Daily intake index wherein the daily intake of every age bracket is listed along with every measure of food and its equivalent and total weight (milligrams) of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, calories and fats.

By looking at this table, you would realize that a serving of a double-quarter-pound-cheesy-overload-jaw-breaker burger has fats equivalent to three days of the recommended intake. Too bad for the heart and yourself.

Many companies (technological, industrial, and pharmaceutical) do help in this case through their products. The non-stick pans and casseroles help you cook using less oil than usual. The air fryers which gives you a lot of joy and fries with less fat.

Food companies brag their low-fat-low –calorie products. Pills that help burn fats faster are said to be available in the market along with food products containing low or no fat.

Nutritionist and dieticians says that instead of depending on those products and drugs, a diet of fish, fruits and vegetables would help in reducing the risk of heart attacks and failure due to too much fat.

For a day’s energy, don’t rely too much on meat for fats, instead, choose protein-rich meal. Consult a doctor and have a heart check-up for better adjustments of meals and activities.

Have a regular exercise. Walking or jogging would simply have it done for you. It does not only burn fat, but exercises your heart and lungs as well.

The best remedy for such a thing is discipline. Always remember that “one is enough, two is too much” and that too much makes things worse, but with discipline, you’ll have less worries.

http://laurenceourac.com/less-fat-less-worries/

Household items that everyone forgot to clean

Believe it or not, some of your household items can cause skin infection because we tend to forget cleaning it as we use it in our everyday life. And when not cleaned, these items can have bacteria that can latch to your skin and could cause skin diseases or allergies.

Cleaning these items are important, especially to those who have poor immune system. A simple skin infection or allergy can become very serious later.

Here are some of the household items we use every day and forgot to clean:

Mobile phones. It is believed that an average mobile phone has 25,000 germs per square inch. How huge is that? It’s like 18 times dirtier than a public restroom. It can cause, skin infection, acne and bloodstream infections. How was it acquired? Not all the time our hands are clean.

We hold different items and most of the time we are on the mobile phone. The germs that you acquired from the other things that you hold pass through when you hold your phone.

Always make sure to clean your mobile phones by dampening a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and rub the screen, USB port, earphone ports and phone cases.

Make sure that the rubbing alcohol does not seep into the phone.

Remote Controls. According to the study, remote controls contain 70 bacteria per square inch that can cause common colds. To make sure it is clean, wipe down remote with rubbing alcohol and make sure to get to the top, bottom and sides of the remote as well as the battery compartment. You can use a cotton swab for areas that cloth can’t reach easily.

Toothbrush Holders. Toothbrush holders are most likely situated near the toilet. Flushing of the toilet causes aerosols, containing fecal bacteria that may land to the items near the toilet. These bacteria can cause skin problems and dysentery. To clean the toothbrush holder, rinse out the inside with hot water, use a pipe cleaner to pick up the grime. Fill with anti- bacterial mouthwash for two minutes and then rinse. Lastly, air- dry it.

Hair Brushes and Combs. It is said that 72% of the people do not clean their combs which can cause scalp problems, dandruff and hair loss. To clean it, remove all the hair left on the comb with your finger or toothpick. Soak the comb or brush under a warm tap water. Rib the comb on the brush bristles and gently remove trapped debris. Gently rinse it then dry it with a clean towel.

There are still a lot of household items. All we need to make sure we clean it every now and then to avoid diseases that we can also pass to others.

http://laurenceourac.com/household-items-that-everyone-forgot-to-clean/

Achieve a royal bedroom look

Sleeping is the best part of the day for most of us, especially for those who are workaholic and has a lot of things to do every day. It is important indeed that your bedroom would look like, “You deserve some rest, Master.”

Who have not ever dreamed of sleeping in a palace or mansion to give you such noble feel? Well, anyone can turn your bedroom into a grandiose and majestic one if you’re willing to do the steps below:

Get a high bed with thick comforters. The highlight of every bedroom, is of course the bed. Choose either a queen or king- sized bed with thick comforters and pillows to have a regal bedroom. You can also add a canopy to add luxurious impression in your room.

Put long curtains in your bedroom. Long curtains and drapes that reach the floor covering, your window will give your bedroom a more sophisticated look. It should match the theme, design and color of your bed. Long and thick curtains will give you that fortress atmosphere.

Install fancy lights. To express the room’s imperial mode, it is important to choose the proper light. The yellow light would instantly give your room an elegant and warm ambience. You can opt to choose either a chandelier or a lamp to make it look more royal.

Put some classy decors. You can display antique- objects, but not too old to put some class and add that highness feeling in your room. It doesn’t have to be expensive as well. You can buy furniture with classy and vintage feels.

Put artsy mirrors. Mirrors with nicely engraved edges heighten the room’s royal look. That old, antique style of mirror would complement the entire look of the room. Mirrors would also make your room look bigger.

Select the right color. If you hear the word loyal, the first color that would come to our mind are gold, black, silver and all those warm colors. Choosing the right color in your room will add glamour and that feeling to a queen’s of king’s.

Clean your room. No royal room is messy. It is important to make sure that your resting place is clean. Make sure your things are always organized.

http://laurenceourac.com/achieve-a-royal-bedroom-look/

What is scalp psoriasis?

Itchy scalp, flaky, and reddish? You can associate it to dandruff, yet scalp psoriasis is entirely different.

Scalp psoriasis is a disease most commonly seen in the scalp. Fifty percent of those who experience the ailment have at least one flare up in the scalp apart from the formation of scaling plaque on the other parts of the body, such as legs, arms, forehead, nape, and behind the ears.

Scalp psoriasis is a skin disorder, which makes the skin because of the dead skin cell build up. The skin disorder will look like dry skin except so much worse in which you can see skin flaking. This condition is also reddish in appearance around the white patches of skin.

This skin disorder cannot catch from the sufferer. Instead, it can be in the genes, which means you have the possibility of experiencing the disorder once you have a family that experienced scalp psoriasis. Doctors also have their fingers pointed to the immune system for the cause of the disorder.

The specifics of its cause are yet to be pointed out. What we know is there is something defective in our immune system, which causes the skin cells to grow in mere days instead of its normal time that is weeks. Unfortunately, the old skin cells will not shed until its normal time, causing an increase build up, which then triggers the appearance of scalp psoriasis.

Scalp psoriasis is quite hard to diagnose if it only appears on the scalp. You will most likely consider the itchiness as dandruff not knowing you are already developing scalp psoriasis until it is already severe.

While current studies don’t impose threats about the condition, it is still important to see the doctor in order to know if maybe another form of skin disease like seborrheic dermatitis. This skin disease looks similar to scalp psoriasis with other causes and other treatments.

Another reason why you need to see the doctor is in order to get a prescription that will let the skin disorder heal faster. There are over-the-counter treatments for the disease like ointments, medicated shampoos and soaps, but stronger treatments need a prescription from the doctor.

Not giving scalp psoriasis the proper attention will cause you hair loss due to constant scratching and added stress, which will affect your performance and responsibilities.

http://laurenceourac.com/what-is-scalp-psoriasis/