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Showing posts from February, 2023

Take These 7 Healthy Steps to Lower Your Odds for Dementia

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A new study shows seven heart-healthy habits can lower your chances of developing dementia down the road. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/IXaeOvu A new study shows seven heart-healthy habits can lower your chances of developing dementia down the road.

Why Do Dogs Like to Be Petted?

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It’s so easy to lavish affection on our precious pups. We can’t resist kissing their cute faces, giving them belly rubs and scratching behind their ears. And they like it too—if we pause for just a second, they paw our hand in protest. It makes you wonder: Why do dogs like to be pet? To get to the bottom of it, we chatted with experts in pet behavior. Heads up: The answer is even more fascinating than you might think. And if the info below gets the gears of your brain turning, sate your canine curiosity by learning about other dog behaviors , like why your dog stares at you , licks your feet or tilts its adorable doggy head . Could these be signs your dog needs affection ? Read up to better understand your furry best friend. Get Reader’s Digest ’s   Read Up newsletter for more pet insights, humor, cleaning, travel, tech and fun facts all week long. Why do dogs like to be petted? In our hearts, we know the answer to “why do dogs like to be pet?” It feels good! But along comes sci

112 Words of Encouragement to Help Someone Get Through a Tough Day

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Little words of encouragement can mean so much There’s no doubt about it: Life can be hard. Even when things are generally going well, some days are just rough. And when things aren’t going well? Well, that’s a whole different story. In either situation, though, it helps to know we’re not alone, and even the smallest words of encouragement in the form of a “ thinking of you” message or an uplifting quote can make a huge difference in someone’s day—and life. “If we knew everyone perfectly, we would recognize that they all struggle with something. In fact, I think it’s safe to assume that most days for most people have at least a few challenges,” says Michael Westover, a counselor and the author of  A Worthwhile Life: How to Find Meaning, Build Connection, and Cultivate Purpose . “So this means everyone can benefit from some form of encouragement on a regular basis.” That’s true whether someone’s going through a breakup, looking for a new job, dealing with sleepless nights after

The 40 Best Teen Movies You’ll Love at Any Age

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Teen movies that stand the test of time Admit it: There’s a part of you that still loves teen movies. How can you not? They’re the ultimate guilty pleasures, and beyond that, the best ones are smart, insightful and, simply put, some of the best movies around. At their heart, these coming-of-age films tap into something universal. We may not have had sparkly vampires running amok in our town or lived in a place that banned dancing, but we did experience the sweetness of first love, the excruciating embarrassment of making a misstep and the fun of those carefree days. In short, these movies have a delicious nostalgia factor, whether we’re watching for the first time or the 50th. From sweet romantic comedies to high school horror stories (metaphorical and literal!), these are the teen movies you’ll adore no matter how old you are. And this list has something for everyone: There are familiar fan favorites from the ’80s and ’90s , blockbusters, classics, critical darlings and even

How to Get Through a TSA Security Line With Your Pet

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When it comes to going through airport security with pets, it can be confusing and chaotic—especially if passengers are unsure how exactly to get their pets through security. “Pets are often treated like family members and as such, sometimes travel with their humans,” Robert Duffy, TSA Federal Security Director for LaGuardia Airport, has said. That’s why the TSA released a handy guide for traveling pet owners on what to know when bringing pets through security at LaGuardia Airport. While this is specific to one airport, it’s good information to know across the board. Once known, the process is simple. How do I get through TSA with a pet? According to TSA, pets must be brought to security checkpoints in a hand-held travel carrier. If you don’t happen to have one, these are our favorite dog carriers for your next trip! Once your pet is removed from the carrier at the start of the screening process, the carrier can be placed on the security checkpoint conveyor belt to be X-rayed. M

United Airlines Is Making a Big Change to Its Snack Menu

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Lately, airlines have been pulling out all of the stops. Delta Airlines has rolled out free WiFi . Frontier Airlines has released a highly discounted summer flight pass . And now, United Airlines has made its way into the mix with a major flight bonus—free snacks! Forget flying hangry with United’s latest perk. Thanks to the airline’s new snack menu for economy passengers, this is what travelers can look forward to on their next United flight. What is on United’s new snack menu? Travelers can expect to welcome three free snack options from the new United selection: Dark chocolate and sea salt chocolate crisps by Undercover Snacks. Although the crisps are full of chocolate, they happen to be quinoa-based! Apple and mango fruit bars from the health bar company, That’s It Savory snack mix by Summer Harvest Does the new snack menu accommodate dietary restrictions? Yes! Not only are these options all free, they further accommodate those with dietary restrictions. The Undercover

18 Amazon Travel Accessories That’ll Arrive in Time for Your Next Trip

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Travel Jewelry Organizer When it comes to Amazon travel accessories, this plush velvet compact jewelry box is an affordable way to keep your baubles safe and tangle-free. The travel jewelry case has a built-in mirror and several separate compartments, including a secret space for earrings or other valuables. The handheld design comes in fun colors, like red emerald green, cyan blue and dusty pink. And if you’re looking for the best way to store your accessories at home, consider these jewelry organizers . Shop Now The post 18 Amazon Travel Accessories That’ll Arrive in Time for Your Next Trip appeared first on Reader's Digest . from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/4QidPUx

Rare Cancer Symptoms May Be Hiding In Plain Sight

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For family or friends, knowing the right questions to ask—both with their loved ones and the care team—is a learning curve of its own. However, having open and honest conversations about one’s condition and any related symptoms are essential in disease management. February 28th is Rare Disease Day, a time to speak up and raise awareness for the 300 million people worldwide living with a rare disease—including those who are part of the myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) community . MPNs are a group of rare, chronic blood cancers that can affect people at any age but are more common in people over 50. MPNs are also progressive diseases, meaning they can change or worsen over time and sometimes transform into another blood cancer. Proactive Conversations are Key Given the potential subtle increase over time, symptoms may go unnoticed until someone else points them out. What might feel like small or inconsequential aches and pains could be manifestations of one’s MPN. The best way to

Daily Marijuana Use Now Linked to Heart Risks

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Researchers say daily marijuana users are about one-third more likely to develop coronary artery disease, compared with people who have never used the drug. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/Iz2egnX Researchers say daily marijuana users are about one-third more likely to develop coronary artery disease, compared with people who have never used the drug.

How Doctors Can Care for Women Better

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A recent movement in medicine is pushing doctors to better understand how female patients are different from male patients. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/A6dpxaq A recent movement in medicine is pushing doctors to better understand how female patients are different from male patients.

Spotlight On: Myasthenia Gravis

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Myasthenia gravis issues: health disparities, quality of life, stigma, gender issues, and treatment access. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/yBjW5iz Myasthenia gravis issues: health disparities, quality of life, stigma, gender issues, and treatment access.

Nearly 40,000 Shoppers Have Purchased This Clever All-in-One Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

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Frequent travelers know the key to an amazing trip is being prepared. That means buying the best luggage and following smart packing tips . Next, secure essential travel accessories like packing cubes and toiletry bags . When it comes to the later, the Bagsmart toiletry bag is the gold standard. Especially if packing a 10-step   skin care routine is a travel must. What is a Bagsmart toiletry bag?   Most toiletry bags lack the space to hold more than a couple items. The Bagsmart travel bag is an excellent catch-all for makeup , skin care and other necessities. When it’s packed and folded, the bag looks like an average beauty caddy from the outside. Unzip it, however, and you’ll find a place for your entire routine! Two handles allow you to easily carry the bag from your suitcase to the bathroom to the gym. Instead of risking a broken zipper, the bag features a double-zip system for more security. A front pocket even grants space for your phone.   The bag’s interior has four

Premenstrual Exacerbation: When Your Period Can Be Life-Threatening

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What to know about premenstrual exacerbation. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/0t2ZlpO What to know about premenstrual exacerbation.

A Young Neurologist Mentors Black Women, Fights Disparities

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Eseosa Ighodaro, MD, PhD, is a neurologist focusing on stroke, health disparities, and mentoring the next generation of doctors. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/U1twRSY Eseosa Ighodaro, MD, PhD, is a neurologist focusing on stroke, health disparities, and mentoring the next generation of doctors.

Air Pollution May Create U.S. 'Hot Spots' for Parkinson's Risk

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A new study suggests people living in heavily polluted areas of the U.S. may be more vulnerable to Parkinson’s disease. from WebMD Health https://ift.tt/fB4v8wV A new study suggests people living in heavily polluted areas of the U.S. may be more vulnerable to Parkinson’s disease.

13 Polite Habits Flight Attendants Actually Dislike—and What to Do Instead

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The dos and don’ts of flying It seems like every day there’s a new viral video showing passengers getting kicked off airplanes for all types of unruly, rude and sometimes violent behaviors. But one thing remains constant in all these crazy scenes: how polite and calm the flight attendants remain. Seeing these videos may make you feel even more motivated to be a polite and helpful passenger when you fly. “This is a great instinct, and we definitely appreciate it when passengers go out of their way to be helpful … usually,” says Tania M., a flight attendant with nearly 20 years of experience. After all, like most people who work with the public, flight attendants love when you are considerate, follow proper etiquette  and skip the annoying comments . Bonus points if you know what to do on a flight . In fact, these are some of the first things  flight attendants notice about you . So where do things go awry? When passengers’ good intentions to “help” end up making a flight atte

More than 18,000 Shoppers Say This Under $10 Hair Oil Is a Miracle in a Bottle

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The internet is home to many of our favorite hair care secrets, from  TikTok’s hair slugging to a beloved Amazon detangling brush —which is why we’re not surprised one particular hair loss remedy has taken the ‘net by storm. Mielle Rosemary Mint Oil has been gaining popularity in the hair care world for its promises of promoting hair growth and strength, while also soothing itchy, irritated scalps. With more than 18,000 five-star reviews on Amazon and a price tag that’s less than $10 a bottle, it’s clear why this product is quickly becoming a fan-favorite. Adding a new product to your hair routine , especially when you’ve already used products like argan oil , can seem a bit intimidating or even redundant. If you’re interested in the Mielle Rosemary Mint Oil , here’s everything you need to know about this mane must-have. What is Mielle Rosemary Mint Oil?   What makes this oil so effective is its powerhouse combination of rosemary and peppermint essential oils. For centuries, ros

This Is How Often You Should Be Changing Your Toothbrush

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A toothbrush is your best weapon against plaque and the bacteria that can cause cavities. But this everyday oral-health tool is also one of the most common places germs hide in the home . And while it doesn’t have the most germs in the bathroom , it’s right up there. To have healthy teeth and gums, it’s not only critical that you clean your toothbrush but also that you understand a toothbrush’s lifespan. So, how often should you change your toothbrush? To find out, we asked Roopali Kulkarni, DMD, MPH, assistant professor of oral medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, for her best advice. Read on to learn how often you should change your toothbrush, then make sure it stays fresh. That means doing more than simply learning how to clean it properly—you have to put that knowledge into practice! Add sanitizing and replacing your toothbrush to your cleaning schedule , and you’ll be flashing those pearly whites in a satisfied smile. Get Reader’s Digest ’s   R