Monday, September 28, 2009

More Reasons to Take Vitamins C & E

Two Ways You Can Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s research is a hot topic, and could have a big impact on your life. There’s an estimated 4.5 million cases in the U.S. reports the Alzheimer’s Association, and that number is growing. But there’s hope!

You may reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease by taking two important vitamins, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Vitamins C and E are the focus of many research studies, which indicate they may reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers have found that antioxidants may absorb damaging free radicals in the brain and prevent cell damage.

A Johns Hopkins study found that people taking both Vitamins C and E were 64% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease four years later. The recommended daily doses for Vitamin C are 500 to 1,500 mg, and 400 to 1,000 IU of Vitamin E daily. Be sure you check with your doctor to determine which dose is best for you.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Fact- Pets can Significantly Improve Your Health

Could Owning a Pet
Help You Live Longer?

What would you say if you could buy a medicine that lowered your blood pressure, improved your cardiovascular health, reduced your anxiety and stress, and made you happy...everyday. Would you buy it?

We know how much love and affection pets can bring to our lives, but there’s more. Scientific studies have found that having a pet can significantly improve your health. Here are five ways pets can positively impact your health:

1. Heart Benefits. The American Journal of Cardiology reports pet owners are more likely to survive a heart attack than those who don’t own a pet. Another study found people who owned a dog were more likely to be alive one year after a heart attack than those who didn’t have a dog.

2. Lower Blood Pressure. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that pets help lower blood pressure (and heart rates). An American study found men who owned a cat had a lower resting heart rate and lower blood pressure than men who didn’t own a cat. And after a stressful event, their blood pressure returned to normal more quickly.

3. Mood Elevator. People, particularly seniors, who own pets are less likely to be depressed and lonely. Pets can provide companionship, humor, and add playfulness to our daily lives.

4. Kids and Health. Research presented at the 10th International Conference on Human Animal Interaction 2004 found that children who have pets have fewer sick days. They also reported that children who had pets had higher levels of self-esteem and functioned better emotionally. Research studies also found that children with pets coped better with divorce.

5. An Exercise Buddy. Dogs need regular exercise, which also gets their owners walking. This can improve their overall health. As an added benefit people improve their social network as they socialize their pet.

There is a word of caution, however. Owning a pet requires your time and a financial commitment. If you’re not ready for that responsibility, it’s best to hold off owning a pet.

Friday, September 25, 2009

How Can You Tell if Someone has Lied?

Five Surefire Ways
To Spot A Liar…

Do you remember the old joke: “How can you tell if a politician is lying? Answer: Their lips are moving!”

Well, almost everyone lies at sometime, according to Dr. Robert Galatzer-Levy of the University of Chicago. In fact, research has shown that people lie in one-fourth of their daily social interactions.” White lies, little kid lies, vicious lies, lies of infidelity...and infamous ‘presidential’ lies! There can be severe penalties for lying. If you lie in court and get caught, you can go to prison. Most liars usually give themselves away with their body language or their words. Here are five surefire ways for becoming an expert ‘liar detective’:

1. Shifty Eyes. Shifty eyes are the hallmark of a liar, according to a recent study of people polled in 75 countries. Looking away or lack of eye contract are non-verbal signs that may indicate the person is lying.
2. Body Language Giveaways. Look at body movements. Is the person fidgeting? Is their body stiffening? Watch their hands, fingers, legs, and feet. Also, look at their emotional facial expressions. Watch for small, brief expressions that run counter to the person’s facial gestures.
3. Verbal Clues. Liars tend to hesitate, stammer, or stutter when speaking. Watch for slow speech, pauses, and a higher-pitched voice.
4. Inconsistencies. If a “liar” tells you something that doesn’t add up, ask for an explanation. Then watch for clues. Are they defensive? Do they give you too much information and go overboard with a lie?
5. Intuition. Pay attention to clues. Listen to what a person is saying (and how they’re saying it). Look at what a person is telling you with their body and gestures. Does the person say they’re glad to see you, but then moves away...or gives you a tepid handshake?
The chance a person is lying increases when their words and gestures don’t match. Asking questions is the best way of getting to the truth.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Is Fall the Right Time to Sell? If so What can we Do to Get Ready?

Fall can be a great time to put your home on the market!! With less competition your home will get more buyer attention. With fewer homes to pick from and the holidays just weeks away buyers are serious. Here are a few things you can focus on to get ready to sell now.

Q. We are planning to sell our home soon. What room should we focus our main attention when getting our house ready for sale?

A. Focus on the kitchen. The kitchen is a major consideration in most sales. For many people, the kitchen is the most important room in a house.
If you have an outdated kitchen and plan to sell your home, a kitchen remodel usually doesn’t make sense. However, a kitchen makeover can work magic in brightening your home. Here are a few tips to liven up a tired kitchen without taxing your pocketbook:
1) A New Coat Of Paint. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in brightening any room. Focus on neutral colors.
2) Clean Up The Clutter. Put away any extra appliances, cookbooks, and other messy items that take up counter space.
3) Clean, Clean, Clean. Make sure everything sparkles...from the windows, appliances, counters, to the floor.
4) Out With The Old, In With The New. If your countertop tile is outdated, old, or grungy. replace it with new tile. Remember to keep the colors neutral. If you have an old stainless steel faucet replace it with a new one. These improvements can be completed inexpensively, and will increase the value and appeal of your home.
5) Replace Outdated Hardware. If you have old, outdated hardware on your kitchen cabinets, look for a new, stylish replacement.
6) Lighting. Make sure there is light shining in the kitchen when you show your house. You want your kitchen to look bright and spotless.
If you are in the market for a buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 206-226-0565.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Kids are Back in School, Time to Talk about Bullies?

Help Your Kids Deal with Bullies

Bullies are among the top fears school age children expressed in a recent study. Here are six strategies for dealing with bullies in school:
1. Listen to your children. Encourage your kids to talk about school and other kids, so that you can hear if they are having any problems.
2. Take your child’s complaints of bullying seriously. A minor complaint may actually uncover a more serious problem.
3. Report bullying behavior to school officials. They can stop the problem at the source. If it’s happening to your child, chances are it’s probably happening to other children.
4. Help your child learn the social skills they need to make friends. A confident child who has friends is less likely to be bullied.
5. Teach your child non violent ways to resolve arguments. Teach your child self-protection skills, staying alert and verbal assertiveness.
6. Teach your child that they can walk away from a bully.
For more information on how to protect your children from bullies, go to www.mcgruff.org.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Time for One More Bike Ride? Wear a Helmet!!

Preventing Head Injuries

Did you know that up to 85% of head injuries to bicyclists can be prevented just by wearing a helmet? With more and more people riding bicycles for exercise and fun, it’s a sport that’s not just for kids anymore. Here are four important tips that can help make your next ride a safe one.

1) Your bicycle helmet should have a snug fit, but feel comfortable. Select a helmet that is recommended by the National Standards Institute, www.ansi.org. 2) Wear appropriate clothing. Clothing should be light and close fitting to avoid being caught in the bicycle’s moving parts. 3) Make sure your bike is adjusted properly. Check that all parts are secure and working. The handlebars should be firmly in place and turn easily. The wheels should be straight and secure. 4) Check tires for proper pressure and make sure there are no bulges or cracks. For more information on bicycling and bike safety, go to www.bicyclinginfo.org

Monday, September 21, 2009

Keep Yourself Safe From Animals

The pace is quickening. The headlines can be downright frightening...and every day the dangers of animal-borne diseases are growing. Does the thought of diseases like Mad Cow, SARS, West Nile Virus, and Monkeypox make you a little queasy?

There’s also Rabies, Salmonella, Tularemia (rabbit disease), Lyme Disease, and Avian Influenza (bird flu). Today, more than 50 percent of all viral and bacterial diseases threatening humans come from animals, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. What are these dreaded diseases and where do they come from? Here’s information you should know, and important tips for avoiding them:

West Nile Virus. Virus transmitted through mosquitoes.
SARS. Virus first transmitted through civets (catlike animals) in China.
Mad Cow Disease. Viral disease caused by eating contaminated tissue from cattle.
Monkeypox. Virus transmitted through animal bites from rodent pets, prairie dogs, rats, mice, and squirrels.
Rabies. Viral disease often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.
Salmonella. Bacterial disease usually caused by drinking contaminated water, or eating contaminated eggs or chicken.
Tularemia (rabbit fever). Bacterial disease usually caused by ticks, deer flies, rabbits. Also caused by drinking or eating contaminated food or water.
Lyme Disease. Bacterial disease usually caused by deer ticks.
Avian Influenza. Virus usually transmitted by birds. Birds excrete the virus; human-to-human transmission is rare.

Are you at risk for any of these diseases? Here’s vital information that can you protect you, your friends, and your family:
1. Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap.
2. Keep a clean environment.
3. Don’t own exotic pets or wild animals.
4. Protect yourself from ticks. When hiking, tuck your pant legs into your socks. Use insect repellent containing DEET.
5. Don’t keep reptiles if you have young children or are pregnant. They
transmit diseases, particularly salmonella.
6. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. Remove any standing water from
areas around your home. Use insect repellent containing DEET.
7. Take any sick pets to a veterinarian.

For more information on the dangers of animal related diseases, go to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s web site at www.cdc.gov/healthypets.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Live Longer and Stronger

Back by popular demand. Want to feel better, look better, and live as if you’re a finely tuned sports car? Here are 10 tips that’ll keep you feeling, looking, and living better...and enjoying life however long you live.

1. Take A Baby Aspirin Daily (81 mg.) reduces your risk of heart disease.
2. Let Grapefruit Be Your Friend. Grapefruit lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol.
3. Find A Mate. Happily married people have lower blood pressure.
4. Treat Yourself To A Massage. A massage will soothe away your stress.
5. Have An Apple. It’s true...an apple a day lowers your risk for heart disease.
6. Get A Pet. Studies show man’s (and woman’s) best friend really is just that.
7. Whistle A Happy Tune. Sing, whistle, or listen to music reduces stress.
8. Dress Your Salads. Leafy greens, high in antioxidants, protect your heart.
9. Go Wild With Watermelon. High in lycopene, it protects you from cancer.
10. Eat Chocolate! Dark chocolate, high in flavonoids—is good for your heart.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Want to Find Personal Public Information on Someone?

Want To Find Out Info On Someone...Or Yourself?
Here’s a great website worth keeping in your favorite’s file!
Do you want to find out information about someone you know, or even your neighbor? Go to www.pretrieve.com. You’ll be amazed at what you can find out. It’s a search engine that explores public records from any state. Try typing in your own name or address and see what you find out about yourself. It might surprise you.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

College Scholarships Go Unclaimed

Great Tip On How To Reduce The Cost Of College Tuition!
Millions of dollars available from private sector scholarships go unclaimed every year. Generally, it’s because parents and students don’t know how to apply.
For more information, send a self-addressed, stamped, business size #10 envelop to: The U.S. Commission for Scholastic Assistance, P.O. Box 650067, Potomac Falls, VA 20165-0067.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Buyers Should Get Their Own Agents

Q. I’m thinking of buying a home soon. Should I get a Buyer’s Agent, or should I go it alone?

A. I recommend getting a Buyer’s Agent because the agent will be specifically representing you, and, because a Buyer’s Agent generally gets paid by the seller, you pay no commission. A Buyer’s Agent will take time to help you find the type of home you want, in the location you want, and the properties that fit your particular needs and desires. Research by the National Association of REALTORS® reveals that buyers find their home faster when they use a Buyer’s Agent.

A Buyer’s Agent can also help you with financing your home. The agent will determine how much you can afford and help you become pre-qualified to purchase a home. Getting pre-qualified puts you in a stronger negotiating position by letting the seller know you are serious and able to purchase the home. You hire a Buyer’s Agent by signing an agency agreement, which is legal and binding. If you have questions about Buyer Agency, or if you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 206-226-0565.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Quick Tips For Travelers…

If you travel frequently these tips will save you time and make traveling much more enjoyable:
1. Don’t check your luggage. (You probably already knew that!)
2. Select two complementary color outfits that you can mix and match. You’ll get more mileage from your wardrobe.
3. Take 1-2 pairs of shoes (including what you’re wearing). Make sure one is well-made and comfortable for walking.
4. Bring ear plugs and eye shades if you want to sleep on the plane.
5. Dress well...you never know you might get bumped to 1st class.
6. Focus on eating well when you’re traveling, and bring along a few healthy snacks like nuts, carrots, fruits, and healthy granola bars.

Monday, September 14, 2009

Brain Food - How to be Smarter

Would you like to know how you can make yourself smarter? It’s really quite simple. There are certain foods that make your brain work better. To improve your memory and brain function, eat more foods high in choline. According to Dr. Arthur Winter, coauthor of Build Your Brain Power, foods high in choline include: soy, fish, beef, dairy, egg yolks, oatmeal, brown rice, liver and wheat germ.

Eating foods high in Vitamin B12, such as red meat, liver, eggs, and dairy, also will improve memory and brain power. Winter recommends taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure you’re getting what your body needs. You can take Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) to reduce stress to your brain tissue.

To improve alertness, memory, and focus make sure you eat three servings of protein (chicken, fish, beef, soy, and dairy) each day. Your brain is regulated by amino acids, and these foods have the necessary amino acids your brain needs. If you are a vegan, make sure to balance your diet with legumes and nuts. Lastly, folic acid, another B vitamin, helps brain function by improving mood and alertness. It’s found in green leafy veggies, broccoli, cereals, meat, and lentils. Bon appetit!

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Dangers of Processed Meat

Hot dogs, sausage, bacon and even luncheon meats may not be so good for your health, according to a researcher at the University of Hawaii. The greatest danger may be to your pancreas. In a study presented at the American Association for Cancer Research, people who ate processed meats had a 67% higher risk for pancreatic cancer than those who didn’t consume processed meats.

The study analyzed the diets of 190,545 men and women. Other research has found a correlation between pancreatic cancer and other factors such as a family history of pancreatic cancer, smoking, obesity, and diabetes.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Sure-Fire Tips For Improving Your Credit Rating…

A good credit rating in essential in today’s economic market. It can save you thousands of dollars when you apply for a mortgage, car loan, or when you want to finance any other big-ticket purchase. Here are six tips for improving your credit rating:
1. Check your credit report. Make sure to resolve any credit debt inaccuracies or disputes. Go to www.AnnualCreditReport.com for information on how to order your credit report.
2. Pay your bills on time. It’s especially important near the time you are applying for a loan.
3. Pay down, or pay off your credit cards. High debt will adversely affect your credit rating.
4. Don’t apply for new credit cards to increase your available credit.
5. Pay down your revolving debt. Also, pay down your debt rather than moving it around.
6. Manage your credit cards and installment loans responsibly. Paying credit cards and installments loans promptly will actually raise your credit rating.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

7 Secrets for Conquering Stress in Your Life...

Are you a harried mom? Overworked dad? Stressed out professional? Stress is considered one of the top three contributors to heart disease and other serious illnesses. Don’t let daily stress get the best of you. Here are seven steps you can take right now to reduce your stress level, and get back to feeling more balanced and energized in your daily life...

1. Master Your Thoughts. Stress and anxiety are actually a choice. You have the power to choose how you feel at any given moment. When you are feeling stressed out, take a moment to pause and close your eyes. Ask yourself, “Is there another choice I can make that will make me feel more at peace with myself or this situation?”

2. Breathe. It sounds so simple, but breathing has a tremendous affect on your mind, body, and your mood. Focus on your breathing when you find yourself feeling stress. If you put your finger on your belly button, you’ll begin to breathe from your belly and relax.

3. Exercise. Regular exercise can release stress and make you feel more in control of your life. Try a 30-minute brisk walk, bike ride, or play a game of tennis or racquetball.

4. Take Up A Hobby. Hobbies give our body and mind a place to relax. Whether it’s painting, woodworking, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, hobbies can give us that feeling of a vacation without having to go anywhere to get away.

5. Pace Yourself. Many of us have a tendency to over schedule ourselves or our family, and then become stressed when we can’t meet the demands. Prioritize your workload and concentrate on one task at a time.

6. Lighten Up And Take The Long View. If you’re feeling anxious and tense...take a moment and ask yourself, “will this really matter tomorrow, next week, or even five years from now?”

7. Strive For Peace of Mind. You can get more out of your life by actually doing less. Happiness comes not from the number of activities we do, and things we collect, but from the opportunity to enjoy our experiences. Doing less may actually make you happier...it’s your choice.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

10 Ways To Save BIG

On Your Energy Bill (And Help Our Planet Too!)

Did you know that helping our environment can also save you money? According to the National Resources Defense Council, the two biggest offenders of global warming are cars and coal-burning power plants. What can you do about it? Here are 10 easy things you can do to save money on your energy bill and help reduce global warming:

1. Turn Off The Power. Turn of your lights, computer, stereo, and TV equipment when you’re not using them. You’ll begin saving money immediately.

2. Recycle. When you recycle your bottles, cans, newspapers and cardboard, you reduce CO2 emissions by up to 850 lbs. per year.

3. Drive A Fuel Efficient Car.

4. Walk, Bike, or Carpool. You’ll save money on fuel, improve your health, and help reduce CO2 emissions.

5. Use “Low-e” Thermal Windows and Doors. Consider these if you’re remodeling. They cost slightly more, but save a bundle in the long run.

6. Insulate Your Water Heater. Water heaters consume 20% of a home’s energy bill. Plus, lower your heater’s thermostat to 120F, and you’ll save 6% a year on your home energy bill and cut carbon dioxide emissions.

7. Replace Old, Inefficient Appliances. You’ll save money by buying high efficiency appliances – reducing CO2 emissions.

8. Make Your Home Energy Smart. You’ll save money on your home heating and cooling bills when you insulate, caulk, and weather strip your doors and windows. This also will significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

9. Use A Low-Energy, Low Water Use Washing Machine. Using warm and cold water will help you save money and reduce CO2 emissions.

10. Tire inflation. Under-inflated tires waste 5% of a car’s fuel cost. Keep tires properly inflated and make sure your car is well maintained. This will extend the life of your car, save fuel, and reduce CO2 emissions.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Home Improvement Time?

Real Estate Corner…

Q. We’re selling our home soon, but don’t want to spend much money on home improvements. Are there any inexpensive ways to fix up our home?

A. Here are just a few low-cost improvements (outdoor and indoor) that can really make a difference and help you sell your house at a higher price:

Outdoor Improvements:
You’ll also want to pay close attention to your home’s curb appeal. Remember, that first impressions count!
 Painting – While painting is not inexpensive, it is the best way to improve the appearance of your home.
 Replace The Front Door – If your front door is in poor condition, either paint the door, or replace it. You can also install quality decorative features (doorknobs, lock, knocker) to dress up the door.
 Repair Screens – Repair any screens. Your local hardware will do this for about $15 per screen, or you can do it yourself.
 Patch Holes In Walkways – Concrete patching costs less than $10 gal.
 Reseal Your Driveway – Repave your driveway if it needs it.

Indoor Improvements: The best way to add to your home’s value is to make sure your house is “sparkling” clean...so it shines!
 Replace Worn Carpeting. You can get quality carpeting installed at about $20 square yard, a good value that will transform the look of your home.
 Painting – A new coat of paint, in neutral colors, will brighten and add value to your home at a reasonable cost to you.

If you are in the market for a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 206-226-0565.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

The Top 10 Secrets For Effective Weight Loss!

Are you overweight? You’re not alone. Obesity rates over the past 20 years have gone through the roof. The writing’s on the wall: we have become a nation of fatties! At least 25 percent of the population is dangerously obese, and there doesn’t appear to be an end in sight.

Being overweight is considerably more likely to lead to arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, experts say. In more than 70% of cases, obesity can be blamed on overeating fatty foods and high calorie treats. But don’t despair because there is hope. Here are 10 sure-fire secrets for losing weight and regaining the health and vitality you once thought was only a dream.

Here Are The Top 10 Tips For Losing Weight:
1. Cut Your Daily Intake Of Food By 25%. Smaller portions and less overall intake will bring about steady weight loss.
2. No More Crash Diets. Crash diets don’t keep weight off for long.
3. Control Access To Food. Have meals at specific times, and set aside no more than 20 minutes for meals.
4. Increase Activity. Here’s great news: A recent study reported that obesity dropped 10% for each hour of exercise a week.
5. Cut Back On Treats–Or Cut Them Out!
Eating treats can increase your odds of obesity by 50%. Eat only low-calorie carrots, popcorn, or apples.
6. Add Bulk. Eat high fiber foods that give a feeling of fullness, and reduce calorie intake.
7. Buy Low-Fat Foods. Only buy low-fat, low-calorie, lean, and light foods.
8. Adjust Serving Sizes To Fit Your Size. Serving sizes on packages are generally too high. It’s best to cut back 15-25 percent of the suggested serving.
9. Keep A Food Diary. Keep track of what foods are eaten daily and keep track of the amounts that are consumed.
10. Let Your Dog Help You Lose Weight. What?? Yes, that’s right. Join forces with your dog (who may also be overweight, studies show). A Veterinarian can figure caloric needs. Why not put Fido on the program...and you too can join in the weight loss program and have the support of man’s (and woman’s) best friend. It may be just the right weight loss program for both of you!

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Dog-gone Facts

 Based on an average life span of 11 years, the cost of owning a dog is $13,350.

 Dogs only sweat from the bottoms of their feet. The only way they can discharge heat is by panting. Dogs and wolves yawn as a sign of contentment.

 Dogs have about 100 different facial expressions, most of them made with the ears. Unfortunately, the likes of bulldogs and pit bulls only have 10, due to their breeding. Therefore, these dogs easily are misinterpreted by other dogs and often get into fights.

 One of the world’s oldest breeds of dog is the Saluki. It is thought to have been developed in ancient Mesopotamia around 3000 B.C.

 “Three dog night” (attributed to Australian Aborigines) came about because on especially cold nights these nomadic people needed three dogs (Dingoes, actually) to keep from freezing.

 Dogs see in color, although it’s not as vivid as the range that humans possess.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Never Use Plastic In The Microwave

Could using plastics in the microwave be dangerous to your health? The answer is “yes,” according to important news from John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

There have been many stories circulating about the safety of microwaves, heating, plastics and food. Some have focused on dioxin, a known carcinogen. Dioxin occurs in our environment, primarily from the incineration of waste materials, according to Dr. Rolf Halden, at John Hopkins Bloomberg School. People are exposed to dioxin mostly from eating meat and fish rich in fat. But it may not be the sole offender.

There are other concerns we should consider, according to Halden. There’s a group of chemicals called “phthalates” that have been added to some plastics to make them flexible and less brittle. If you heat these plastics, it can increase the leaching of phthalates from the containers into your food.

Many scientific studies have shown that when you heat up an object, the chemicals are more likely to release into the environment. This is the same with plastics...and possibly the plastic packaging in some microwave meals.

Another chemical, diethylhexyl adipate (DEHA), is also used to make plastics more flexible. DEHA exposure can occur when eating certain foods wrapped in plastics. “It’s true that substances used to make plastics can leach into food,” says Edward Machuga, Ph.D., a consumer safety officer in the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “But the levels are low.”

What should you do? People should use heat resistant glass, Corning Ware or ceramic containers for heating food in the microwave. Don’t use foam or plastic carryout containers from restaurants or margarine tubs in the microwave, according to the FDA. And never use plastic storage bags, grocery bags, newspapers or aluminum foil in the microwave.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

5 EASY Money Saving Tips

Would you like a few new, creative ways to save a little money? Here are five tips to help you keep a little more “green” in your pocket:

1. Shop only when you need something. Don’t shop for fun unless you are hunting for a bargain.
2. Learn to do things yourself. Instead of hiring a painter, learn how to paint your kitchen like a professional. Want to landscape your yard? Take a free class at your local home improvement store on landscaping...and then do the work yourself.
3. Live within your means. Hold off on purchases until you can pay cash.
4. Research future purchases. Find the best value for your money. Avoid cheaply made items that end up costing you more in the long run.
5. Explore thrift stores and garage sales. Sometimes you can find high quality items at low prices.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Want To Stay Healthy and Slim?

Eat Breakfast!

A new study from Harvard University indicates that people who eat breakfast daily may be less likely to succumb to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Why? Eating breakfast regularly helps control your appetite throughout the day, which means you’re less likely to overeat later. A good breakfast also helps regulate your body’s blood sugar.

A study of 2,700 adults who reported eating breakfast every day had a 35 to 50 percent reduced chance of becoming obese, or developing insulin resistance syndrome. This syndrome is a precursor to diabetes in which the body experiences a loss of sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is key to regulating blood sugar.

What you eat is just as important as making sure you eat breakfast. Refined grain cereals and bacon and eggs had no effect on reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes. The best breakfast food is a whole grain cereal, especially oatmeal. A study reported in The Journal of Family Practice concluded that oat cereals work so well at lowering blood pressure, people who are taking hypertension medication can actually lower their dosage if they eat an oatmeal breakfast every day. Other studies have shown that oatmeal will lower cholesterol if it is eaten on a daily basis.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

How Safe Is The Bottled Water You Drink?

Don’t be fooled. The bottled water you’re drinking may not be any safer than your tap water. According the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), some bottled water sold in the United States may contain bacteria and/or chemicals. And 30 percent of bottled water sold in the U.S. comes from a city or town’s tap water!

The NRDC cited one incidence where a bottled water brand labeled “spring water” actually came from a well in an industrial facility’s parking lot. While they reported that most bottled water was safe, about 30 percent of the bottled water they tested contained bacteria, synthetic organic chemicals and inorganic chemicals.

In another recent study, Dutch researchers found 40 percent of the bottled mineral water they tested from 16 countries, (not including the U.S.) showed the presence of bacteria or fungi.

Why should you care? First, people with a weakened immune system (children, the elderly, people with cancer, kidney failure, or AIDS,) may have an increased risk of infection from bacteria. Serious infections can develop from legionella, a bacteria causing Legionnaires disease, pneumonia like illness.

Secondly, bottled water is expensive. A five-year supply of bottled water (8 glasses a day) costs about $1,000. The same amount of tap water costs $1.65.

There are some regulations on bottled water. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) requires that if water is taken from a municipal source and not treated, the label must say it’s from a municipal source. If, the water is treated (using common technology) there is no requirement to label the municipal source.

The NRDC concluded that bottled water “should not be assumed to be purer or safer than most tap water.”