It holds you together. Literally.

What Collagen Actually Does

Collagen is a key building block of skin, joints, tendons, ligaments, and even bones. It gives skin firmness and elasticity. Helps joints move smoothly. It supports tissue strength.

When collagen levels are strong, skin looks fuller, joints feel stable, and recovery tends to be smoother. When levels drop, signs appear gradually — wrinkles deepen, skin loses bounce, joints feel stiffer.

Why Collagen Declines With Age

Collagen production naturally slows down after your mid-20s. Sun exposure, smoking, stress, and poor nutrition accelerate the process. The body still produces collagen, just less efficiently.

This decline is normal. The question is how to support the process, not stop it.

Can You Replace Collagen By Taking It?

When you consume collagen, your body breaks it down into amino acids. Those amino acids are then used to build proteins where needed. Collagen supplements don’t travel directly to your skin or joints intact. They provide raw material.

Studies suggest hydrolyzed collagen peptides may support skin elasticity and joint comfort over time. The effect is gradual, not dramatic. Consistency matters more than dose size.

Collagen Needs Support To Work

Taking collagen alone isn’t enough. Your body needs vitamin C to produce collagen effectively. Without it, synthesis slows. Protein intake also matters because collagen is built from amino acids.

Sun protection plays a role too. UV exposure breaks collagen down faster than the body can rebuild it.

Collagen support is a system, not a single scoop of powder.

Food Sources Of Collagen

Bone broth, skin-on poultry, fish with skin, and connective tissue-rich cuts naturally contain collagen. Even if you don’t consume these directly, eating balanced protein sources gives your body the building blocks it needs.

Whole-food nutrition often supports collagen production just as effectively as supplements for many people.

Collagen And Joints

Joint discomfort often relates to cartilage wear. Collagen is a component of cartilage structure. Some people report reduced joint stiffness with consistent collagen intake, especially when combined with strength training.

Movement stimulates joint health. Collagen provides material. Both matter.

Is Collagen A Miracle?

No. It won’t reverse aging or eliminate wrinkles. It won’t rebuild cartilage overnight. Marketing often exaggerates.

Collagen works slowly. It supports structure over time. The benefits are subtle but meaningful when combined with proper nutrition, hydration, and lifestyle habits.

Who Benefits Most

People noticing early skin changes, athletes stressing joints regularly, and those with low protein intake may see the most benefit. Younger individuals with balanced diets often produce enough naturally.

Supplements fill gaps. They don’t replace fundamentals.

Collagen Is About Maintenance

Think of collagen as maintenance, not transformation. It supports the framework of your body quietly.

When combined with balanced nutrition, vitamin C, adequate protein, and sun protection, collagen can contribute to healthier skin and more comfortable movement. Not dramatically. Not instantly. But steadily.

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Vitamin C Supports Repair From The Inside

Your body is constantly fixing itself. Skin renews, blood vessels stay flexible, connective tissue holds everything together. All of that depends on collagen, and collagen depends on vitamin C. Without enough of it, repair slows down. Wounds heal longer. Gums become sensitive. Skin loses resilience faster. This isn’t about beauty. It’s about structure and durability.

It Helps Defend Cells From Daily Stress

Everyday life creates oxidative stress. Pollution, sunlight, exercise, emotional pressure, lack of sleep. All of this produces free radicals, unstable molecules that damage cells over time. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralize that damage before it accumulates. It doesn’t make stress disappear. It helps your body recover from it more efficiently.

Immunity Is About Readiness, Not Panic

Vitamin C doesn’t magically block viruses. What it does is support immune cells so they can respond properly. White blood cells use vitamin C to move, communicate, and do their job faster. When levels are low, the immune response becomes sluggish. When levels are steady, the system reacts with less chaos and more control.

This is why vitamin C matters before you get sick, not just after.

Iron Absorption Depends On It

Iron is useless if your body can’t absorb it. Vitamin C improves iron absorption from plant-based foods significantly. Without it, iron deficiency becomes more likely, even if your diet looks fine on paper. Fatigue, weakness, and low stamina often trace back to this interaction rather than iron intake alone.

Stress Depletes Vitamin C Faster

Physical and emotional stress burn through vitamin C reserves quickly. Your adrenal glands use it to produce stress hormones. That means periods of high stress increase your need for it, even if your diet hasn’t changed. This is why people often feel run down during stressful phases despite “eating normally.”

The body prioritizes survival over storage.

Food Sources Matter More Than Supplements

Whole foods provide vitamin C alongside fiber, enzymes, and other compounds that help absorption. Fruits and vegetables deliver it in a form the body recognizes easily. Supplements can help in some cases, but they don’t replace a diet that regularly includes fresh produce.

Consistency matters more than high doses.

Vitamin C Works Quietly In The Background

You don’t feel vitamin C working. There’s no energy spike. No immediate signal. Its role is preventative, supportive, and subtle. It keeps systems running smoothly so problems don’t pile up unnoticed.

That’s why it’s easy to ignore. And that’s exactly why it matters.

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That’s why winter often becomes the moment when deficiencies show up. Fatigue feels deeper. Immunity weakens. Mood drops. Skin dries out. These changes aren’t random. They’re signals that your body needs more support during this time of year.

Less Sunlight Means Less Vitamin D

Sunlight plays a major role in vitamin D production. In winter, even people who go outside regularly get far less of it. Short days and covered skin reduce exposure dramatically. As vitamin D levels drop, energy follows. Immunity weakens. Muscles feel heavier. Mood becomes flatter.

This is why winter often brings more colds, low motivation, and that dull tired feeling that sleep doesn’t fully fix. Vitamin D isn’t just about bones. It supports immune response, muscle strength, and emotional balance. When it’s low, the whole system feels it.

Immunity Works Harder in Cold Months

Winter is a stress test for your immune system. Cold air dries out nasal passages. Viruses spread more easily indoors. Your body constantly responds to small threats without you noticing. That constant defense uses nutrients faster than usual.

Vitamins that support immunity become especially important during this season. When intake stays the same as in summer, but demand increases, the body starts borrowing from reserves. Over time, those reserves run low. That’s when you start catching everything that goes around or taking longer to recover.

Energy Drops When Nutrient Levels Fall

Many people blame winter fatigue on weather alone, but nutrition plays a huge role. B vitamins support energy production and nervous system function. When levels dip, mental fog and physical tiredness follow. Iron balance also matters, especially when movement decreases and appetite changes.

Winter diets often shift toward heavier, less varied foods. Fresh produce gets replaced by comfort meals. That change feels good emotionally, but nutritionally it can leave gaps. Vitamins help fill those gaps when food variety drops.

Mood and Mental Health Feel the Seasonal Shift

Winter affects the brain as much as the body. Less light disrupts circadian rhythms. Hormones that regulate mood fluctuate. You feel slower, less motivated, more withdrawn. This is why winter blues are so common.

Certain vitamins support nervous system stability and emotional regulation. When the brain lacks what it needs, stress feels sharper and sadness feels heavier. Supporting your system nutritionally doesn’t replace rest or connection, but it makes emotional balance easier to maintain.

Skin, Hair, and Recovery Slow Down

Cold air and indoor heating dry out skin and hair. Nails become brittle. Healing slows. These changes often point to nutritional strain. Vitamins involved in cell repair and hydration become more important in winter because the environment is harsher.

You may not notice the connection right away, but when the body lacks building blocks, it prioritizes survival over repair. Appearance becomes the side effect.

Why Winter Is the Right Time for Support

Vitamins aren’t about fixing something broken. They’re about preventing imbalance before it becomes obvious. Winter places higher demands on your body while offering fewer natural resources. Supplementing during this season supports what your body is already trying to do.

This doesn’t mean taking everything blindly. It means recognizing that winter is a period of increased need. When you support your system early, you move through the season with more energy, fewer illnesses, and better emotional stability.

Listening to Seasonal Needs

Your body isn’t static. It responds to environment, light, temperature, and routine. Winter changes all of those at once. Taking vitamins during this period isn’t a trend. It’s a response to real biological shifts.

When you support your body through winter, spring feels lighter. Energy returns faster. Immunity rebounds. Mood lifts more easily. Winter becomes something you move through, not something that drains you.

Sometimes the most effective care is simply giving your body what the season quietly takes away.

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From laser treatments to collagen boosters, from non-invasive lifts to personalized skincare based on DNA — medicine has quietly taken over beauty. And the line between health and aesthetics has all but disappeared.

The modern idea of beauty isn’t about vanity anymore. It’s about longevity — looking as good as you feel, and feeling better because you look good.

The Science of Staying Young

Beauty used to be luck. Now it’s chemistry, biology, and precision.

Today’s aesthetic medicine doesn’t chase perfection; it restores balance. Doctors study how skin cells age, how collagen breaks down, and how muscles shift over time. Treatments like micro-needling, fillers, and radiofrequency don’t just mask age — they teach the skin to heal itself.

The goal isn’t to freeze time. It’s to make time move gracefully.

In a world where stress, screens, and pollution age us faster than ever, that’s not indulgence — it’s maintenance.

The Era of Subtle Change

If you think “cosmetic procedure” means a frozen face, you haven’t seen what’s happening now.

Modern aesthetics is all about subtlety. Light touch-ups, natural contours, refreshed skin — the kind of beauty that looks like good sleep and healthy habits, not surgery.

People want to look like themselves, just… brighter. And the best practitioners make sure no one can tell what you’ve done — only that you somehow look better.

Because real progress in beauty isn’t about transformation; it’s about precision.

From Fear to Self-Care

It’s fascinating how public attitude has changed.
A decade ago, people whispered about Botox. Now, it’s as normal as going to the gym.

The shift isn’t just cultural — it’s psychological. Taking care of your face or body used to feel like vanity; now it feels like self-respect.

We finally understand that confidence has chemistry. When you like what you see in the mirror, you move differently, speak differently, live differently.

Medicine didn’t just give people tools to look younger — it gave them permission to feel good about wanting it.

The Inside-Out Connection

Here’s what the smartest beauty clinics now understand: you can’t separate the body from the face.

Skin health reflects gut health, hormones, sleep, and stress. A glowing face without inner balance is short-lived. That’s why aesthetic medicine is slowly merging with nutrition, psychology, and wellness.

Doctors talk about cortisol levels as often as skincare routines. Vitamin infusions, IV drips, and tailored supplements have become part of the beauty plan — because youthfulness starts at the cellular level, not at the mirror.

Beauty, it turns out, isn’t a surface. It’s a system.

Technology Is the New Makeup

Where creams once promised miracles, now lasers, ultrasound, and regenerative medicine deliver them.

LED therapy stimulates collagen. PRP — platelet-rich plasma — uses your own blood to rejuvenate skin naturally. Stem-cell research is paving the way for treatments that don’t just slow aging but reverse its visible signs.

We’re living in the first era where “looking younger” isn’t wishful thinking — it’s biology meeting innovation.

But even the best tech can’t replace one thing: a healthy lifestyle. Sleep, hydration, diet, and movement still write most of the story your face tells.

The Bottom Line

Modern beauty isn’t about denying age — it’s about redefining it.

Medicine has given us tools to look younger, but the real evolution is in how we think. We’ve moved from chasing perfection to pursuing vitality, from hiding flaws to celebrating self-care.

Getting “work done” no longer means pretending to be someone else. It means taking control of how you show up in the world.

Because in the end, beauty isn’t about turning back time — it’s about learning to live in it beautifully.

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Here’s a closer look at beauty norms that do more harm than good.

1. Extreme Thinness

For decades, thinness has been idolized in fashion and entertainment industries. This standard often glorifies bodies with:

• Very low body fat
• Visible bones or flat stomachs
• Unrealistic waist-to-hip ratios

The health risks:

• Malnutrition
• Hormonal imbalance
• Eating disorders
• Low energy and poor immune function

True health comes in many shapes and sizes — not just those deemed trendy.

2. Overfilled or Altered Features

Lips, cheekbones, and jawlines are increasingly shaped by fillers and cosmetic enhancements. While some treatments are safe in moderation, chasing an exaggerated ideal can lead to:

• Facial distortion
• Allergic reactions or nerve damage
• Body dysmorphia

The issue isn’t enhancement itself — but when it becomes a cycle of chasing something unnatural.

3. Flawless, Poreless Skin

Skincare trends and makeup filters push the idea that healthy skin is spotless, matte, and baby-smooth. In reality:

• Pores are normal
• Skin has texture
• Hormones, diet, and stress impact appearance

Over-exfoliating or layering too many products to meet these unrealistic standards can cause irritation, breakouts, or long-term sensitivity.

4. Tanning and Skin Lightening

Depending on culture or trend, both tanned and pale/lightened skin have been held up as ideals. Each comes with risks:

• Tanning (especially in salons) increases skin cancer risk
• Skin lightening creams may contain harmful chemicals like mercury

Your natural tone is beautiful. Protecting your skin’s health matters more than matching a trend.

5. Impossibly Long or Voluminous Hair

Beauty magazines often promote ultra-long, thick, glossy hair — which can pressure people into:

• Using damaging extensions
• Overprocessing with heat or chemicals
• Spending excessive time and money on products

Hair health varies with genetics, diet, and care — and beauty shouldn’t require constant damage control.

Final Thought

When beauty ideals ask us to sacrifice comfort, health, or confidence, it’s time to step back. Real beauty doesn’t demand pain or perfection — it reflects individuality, balance, and care. By questioning harmful standards, we make room for self-acceptance and healthier choices that last.

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Let’s explore how much sleep we actually need, what happens when we don’t get enough, and how daytime naps fit into the picture.

Why Do We Need Sleep?

Sleep does more than help us feel rested. During it, your body and brain are hard at work:

• Repairing cells and tissues
• Balancing hormones
• Consolidating memory and learning
• Regulating mood and stress
• Supporting immune function

Without enough sleeping, these processes don’t work well—leading to fatigue, brain fog, weakened immunity, and even increased risk of chronic diseases.

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

According to experts, the recommended hours per night are:

• Adults (18–64): 7–9 hours
• Older adults (65+): 7–8 hours
• Teens: 8–10 hours
• Children and toddlers: Even more, depending on age

Individual needs vary slightly, but consistently getting less than 6 hours is linked to health risks over time.

What Happens When You Don’t Sleep Enough?

Short-term effects:

• Trouble focusing
• Irritability or mood swings
• Slower reaction times

Long-term effects:

• Weakened immune system
• Higher risk of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes
• Memory problems
• Anxiety and depression

Even one bad night affects brain function the next day.

Can Naps Help?

Yes—if done right.

Short daytime naps (10–30 minutes) can:

• Improve alertness
• Enhance mood
• Boost learning and memory

Long naps (over 60 minutes) can leave you feeling groggy unless timed well. They’re better suited for people with irregular sleep or high physical or mental strain.

The best time to nap is early afternoon (1–3 p.m.), when energy naturally dips.

Tips for Better Sleep

• Stick to a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
• Limit screens before bed: Blue light disrupts melatonin
• Create a calm space: Dark, cool, and quiet
• Avoid caffeine and heavy meals late in the day
• Wind down: Try reading, meditating, or stretching before go to bed

Final Thoughts

Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a foundation for your physical, emotional, and mental health. Getting enough sleep helps you focus, stay healthy, and feel better every day. Your body and brain need it—and you’ll thank yourself for making it a priority.

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Why Sleep and Security Are a Perfect Match

Ever tried sleeping in a place where you don’t feel safe? It’s nearly impossible. Your brain stays on high alert, making deep rest a distant dream. That’s why businesses that focus on sleep are increasingly integrating security into their offerings. It’s not just about a comfy mattress anymore—it’s about ensuring the whole environment feels secure.

Think about luxury hotels. They don’t just offer premium bedding; they provide keycard access, soundproofed rooms, and advanced surveillance to make guests feel completely at ease. Sleep brands are following the same playbook, marketing their products not just as cozy, but as essential for true relaxation.

The Rise of Smart Sleep Tech

Technology has completely changed the way we sleep. From AI-powered mattresses that adjust firmness in real-time to smart pillows that track breathing patterns, sleep tech is on the rise. But what’s interesting is how many of these innovations now incorporate security features.

• Smart Beds with Security Sensors: Some high-end mattresses now include motion sensors that detect unusual movement, doubling as a basic security system.
• Sleep Monitoring Apps: Many sleep trackers not only analyze sleep quality but also detect disturbances in the room, alerting users to potential security threats.
• Nighttime Surveillance Systems: Home security brands are developing cameras with night-friendly features that ensure homeowners can sleep soundly without worry.

The Psychology of Feeling Safe at Night

There’s a deep psychological connection between feeling secure and being able to sleep well. Studies show that environments with even minor threats—like background noise, poor locks, or unsecured windows—can trigger stress hormones that disrupt sleep cycles.

This is why businesses in both the sleep and security industries are starting to merge their messaging. A premium mattress might feel great, but paired with a smart lock system and blackout curtains? That’s an unbeatable combination for uninterrupted rest.

The Future of Sleep and Security Business

The market for sleep and security products is booming, and there’s no sign of it slowing down. Companies are exploring new ways to integrate safety with comfort, from biometric sleep tracking to AI-driven home protection.

In the future, expect to see more collaborations between security firms and sleep brands. The ultimate goal? A world where you don’t just sleep better—you sleep knowing you’re completely safe. And that’s the kind of business that never goes out of style.

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Information Overload Doesn’t Equal Expertise

The internet is packed with health information—some of it helpful, much of it questionable. Blogs, forums, and social media platforms make it easy for anyone to share opinions, experiences, or even conspiracy theories about health. The problem? Opinions aren’t facts. What works for one person might not work for another, and anecdotal stories don’t replace clinical research.

Even credible sites can be misinterpreted. Medical language is complex, and without training, it’s easy to misunderstand symptoms or risk factors. This can lead to unnecessary panic or, worse, false reassurance that delays real treatment.

Symptoms Aren’t Always Straightforward

Many symptoms overlap between conditions. A headache could mean dehydration—or something more serious. Fatigue might just be stress—or it could point to an underlying health issue. Online symptom checkers often miss these nuances.

Specialists, on the other hand, ask the right questions, perform tests, and analyze patterns. They don’t just look at symptoms—they consider your medical history, lifestyle, and risk factors. That’s something no online algorithm can replicate.

Self-Diagnosis Can Lead to Self-Harm

Misdiagnosing yourself can be dangerous. Thinking a lump is harmless when it’s not—or panicking over a minor ache—creates unnecessary stress or delays treatment. Some people even attempt self-treatment with over-the-counter medications or supplements based on internet advice.

This approach not only risks worsening symptoms but can also lead to harmful drug interactions. Medical professionals don’t just identify conditions—they monitor progress, adjust treatments, and catch complications early.

Misinformation Spreads Quickly

Health misinformation spreads faster than facts online. Social media amplifies viral posts, even when they’re inaccurate. From miracle cures to vaccine myths, false claims gain traction, creating confusion and distrust.

Doctors spend years studying and training. They rely on peer-reviewed research, not opinions. Trusting verified experts instead of unregulated content is the safest way to manage your health.

The Value of Personalized Care

Medicine isn’t one-size-fits-all. Two people with the same condition can need completely different treatments. Online advice can’t consider factors like genetics, allergies, or pre-existing conditions.

A specialist tailors recommendations to your specific needs. They also provide follow-ups, ensuring treatments are working and making adjustments as needed. That’s a level of care no online article can match.

Using the Internet Wisely

The internet isn’t useless for health—it’s a tool. It can help you learn about conditions, prepare questions for doctors, or find support groups. But it should never replace professional advice.

Use trusted sources like Mayo Clinic or WebMD for general information, but always follow up with a healthcare provider. Think of online research as a starting point—not a diagnosis.

Final Thoughts—Trust the Experts

Your health is too important to gamble with. The internet can inform, but only specialists can diagnose, treat, and guide you safely. Instead of relying on search engines, invest in relationships with healthcare providers who know your history and care about your future.

In the end, medicine isn’t about quick answers—it’s about careful, informed decisions. Don’t trade expertise for convenience. When it comes to your health, trust the people trained to protect it.

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The Power of Antioxidants

These antioxidants play a critical role in protecting the eyes from oxidative stress—a major contributor to vision problems. Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. The delicate tissues in the eyes are especially vulnerable to this type of damage, which can lead to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even vision loss over time.

Anthocyanins in bilberries help combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation in the eyes. They also improve blood circulation to the retina, the part of the eye responsible for processing light and sending visual signals to the brain. This is particularly important for preserving night vision and reducing the risk of age-related eye conditions.

Enhancing Night Vision and Reducing Eye Fatigue

One of the most intriguing benefits of bilberry is its potential to enhance night vision. During World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots were reportedly given bilberry jam to improve their night-time visual acuity.

Staring at computers, smartphones, and tablets for extended periods can strain the eyes, leading to discomfort, headaches, and blurred vision. The anthocyanins in bilberries are believed to help alleviate this strain by strengthening the capillaries in the eyes and reducing inflammation. Regular consumption of bilberries, whether in fresh form, as a supplement, or in extracts, could make it easier for your eyes to cope with the demands of modern technology.

Slowing the Progression of Age-Related Eye Conditions

As we age, our eyes become more susceptible to conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which can lead to significant vision impairment. While no food or supplement can completely prevent these conditions, bilberry’s antioxidant properties may help slow their progression. Regular intake of anthocyanins can help protect the eyes from damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light and other environmental factors, which are known contributors to age-related eye conditions.

Bilberry’s ability to support overall eye health makes it a valuable addition to the diet, especially for those who are at higher risk for these conditions due to genetics or prolonged exposure to UV light. Incorporating bilberry into your diet can provide your eyes with the extra support they need to stay healthy and function well as you age.

Incorporating Bilberry into Your Routine

Adding bilberry to your diet is easy, and the benefits can be substantial. If fresh bilberries are not available, bilberry supplements or extracts are widely accessible and offer a convenient way to ensure you’re getting a consistent dose of eye-supporting nutrients.

By making bilberry a regular part of your routine, you can take a proactive approach to maintaining your vision. While it’s important to remember that bilberry isn’t a cure-all and should be part of a broader strategy for eye health, including a balanced diet, regular eye exams, and proper eye care, its benefits are worth considering. With its rich antioxidant content and potential to enhance vision, bilberry stands out as a natural way to support your eyes and keep them healthy for years to come.

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Culinary Innovations

First and foremost, apples possess an inherent quality that makes them excellent natural sweeteners. Beyond their common role in desserts, apples can enhance the flavor profile of savory dishes. For instance, when used in sauces or marinades, they add a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of meats like pork or chicken. The natural acidity of apples also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish.

Beverages Beyond Cider

Moreover, apples can be transformed into a variety of beverages that go beyond the traditional apple cider. Consider the art of crafting homemade apple liqueurs and brandies. Additionally, apple-infused teas offer a refreshing and healthful twist, blending the crispness of apples with the soothing properties of herbal infusions.

Health and Beauty Applications

Transitioning to the realm of health and beauty, apples reveal yet another facet of their versatility. Apple cider vinegar, for example, is renowned for its myriad of benefits. It is often incorporated into skincare routines for its astringent properties, which help to tone and balance the skin. Moreover, the natural acids in apples can be used to create exfoliating scrubs that leave the skin feeling rejuvenated. Even the simple act of rubbing a slice of apple on the skin can impart a fresh and youthful glow, thanks to the fruit’s hydrating and antioxidant properties.

Household Uses

In addition to their culinary and cosmetic applications, apples can also play a role in maintaining household well-being. One particularly innovative use is in the realm of air freshening. By simmering apples with cinnamon and cloves, one can create a natural and inviting aroma that permeates the home, replacing artificial air fresheners with a warm and homely scent.

Educational and Creative Potential

Furthermore, the educational and creative potential of apples should not be overlooked. They can serve as natural stamps for children’s art projects, where the halved fruit, dipped in paint, creates whimsical patterns on paper. This simple yet imaginative activity not only entertains but also instills a sense of creativity and appreciation for natural materials.

In summary, the humble apple is a fruit of extraordinary potential. Whether in the kitchen, the bathroom, or even the art room, apples continually prove their worth beyond mere consumption. Their multifaceted nature encourages us to think creatively and embrace the numerous possibilities they offer. Thus, as we bite into a crisp apple, let us also savor the endless opportunities that this remarkable fruit brings into our lives.

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This is a piece of actual information for any respiratory disease.

How can you get coronavirus?

COVID-19 is infected in two ways. Airborne (that is, they inhale the virus directly from the air) and contact droplet — when it is released from the infected nasopharynx and “falls” to the surface. From where, through touch, it can get on the mucous membranes of healthy people.

Already from this, it is clear that it is easier to become infected with a “crown” in a room than on a street.

Through the air. With the airborne droplet method, the virus enters the air when coughing or sneezing infected. When inhaled contaminated air, the coronavirus also enters the body.

Through contact. According to research, the most likely chance of contracting the virus is a drop-contact mechanism. The virus is secreted with relatively large droplets of saliva, for example, when sneezing or talking. They are too large to stay in the air for a long time, therefore they settle on different surfaces within a radius of 1-2 meters from the source. Most often these are door handles, handrails, household items.

From surfaces, the virus falls into the hands. To get infected, one more step is required — to transfer the virus to the mucous membranes, for example, touch the lips or rub the eyes. This often happens because people tend to touch their face with their hands.

Proper sneezing technique

Coronavirus infection has already taught us to constantly wash our hands, use antiseptics and maintain a social distance, but it’s also important to sneeze correctly. This must be done in such a way as not to infect yourself and not infect anyone else, even if you are sure that you do not have COVID-19.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention made several recommendations on how to sneeze:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• After use, the disposable tissue should be immediately thrown into the trash.
• If you don’t have a scarf or napkin, cough and sneeze into the fold of your elbow. So your hands will remain clean, and the risk of spreading the virus with further contact with objects will be significantly reduced.
• When sneezing and afterward, do not touch your face with your hands. Indeed, even if you are healthy, there may be pathogens on your hands, and if you touch your nose or eyes you risk getting infected through the mucous membrane.
• Rinse thoroughly after coughing and sneezing. If you can’t do this, use an alcohol-containing antiseptic (at least 60%).

  Regardless of the presence of symptoms of a respiratory illness on the street, it is necessary to maintain a social distance without approaching other people by more than a few meters. The WHO indicates at least 1 meter of distance, but recent studies have shown that when sneezing a cloud of small droplets can spread 7-8 meters. It is precisely the above rules that will help reduce such a huge area of ​​defeat. Do not neglect them.

Remember that COVID-19 is often asymptomatic. This means that even if you do not have a cough and a fever, you can be contagious.

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How you survive the period of self-isolation, largely depends on what kind of person you are.

If you are an extrovert who needs social contacts, it will be more difficult for you to be locked up than an introvert. He just conveniently curled up on the couch in an embrace with a book.

But in any case, it’s worth trying to reduce the effects of forced social distance.

1. Do not lose touch with other people

Today it is easier than ever because there are social networks, instant messengers, services and applications for video communication. It is very important to use this window to the world: at least once a day, chat or call up friends and relatives.

Regular social contacts will become your support and help you not to get to the symptoms of a mental disorder.

2. Move

WHO recommends that adults devote at least 30 minutes a day to exercise and children at least an hour.

If possible, try at least once a day to briefly go outside to walk or go for a run. The main thing is to do it alone and stay at a distance of at least 1.5–2 meters from other people.

If you cannot leave the house, dance, do yoga, or go up and down the stairs.

Find a way to move. Your well-being and how easily you can quarantine depend on this.

3. Eat healthy foods

This will help your immune system work properly, says Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. The normal functioning of the immune system will reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.

In addition, Tedros Adan Gebreisus recommends limiting alcohol and high-sugar drinks (such as sweet soda). Although it seems that alcohol helps to calm down, in the long run, alcohol exacerbates the effects of stress — makes a person more anxious and irritable.

As for sugary drinks, abuse of them causes jumps in blood sugar, and this increases the production of the stress hormone cortisol.

4. Learn to relieve stress

Take it for granted that your psyche in conditions of self-isolation is unbalanced — even if it seems to you that you are calm and keep yourself in control. Mental exhaustion accumulates gradually, so we must learn to resist it.

Turn on soothing music or recording sounds of nature. Make a habit of devoting yourself several times a day to one specific business, fully concentrating on it. For example, wash dishes thoroughly, clean up shelves in a cupboard, or have a tea ceremony. If something bothers you, breathe in slowly and deeply for a few minutes.

There are dozens of ways to relieve stress. Choose yours.

Picture Credit: Pexels

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Dry oral cavity is a consequence of a decrease or cessation of salivary gland activity.

It affects the quality of life. A small amount or absence of saliva in the mouth changes the taste, causes a feeling of itching or burning of the mucous membrane, constant thirst, sore throat and drying out of the lips. At the same time, the risk of developing diseases of the teeth and oral cavity increases.

Permanent companions of chronic dry mouth are often caries, candidiasis and gum disease.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Taking medications, one of the side effects of which is dry mouth.
The abuse of salty foods.
Alcohol poisoning.
Inadequate use of water, especially in hot weather.
Breathing through the mouth.
Stuffy nose.
Dehydration
Long stay in a room with dry air. Often a problem can be encountered when operating an air conditioner or heating devices.
Climax
Smoking.
Strong excitement or shock.
Old age. Over time, the salivary glands may wear out and secrete insufficient saliva.
Even dry mouth can cause some diseases. For example, dryness, accompanied by a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, indicates problems with the gastrointestinal tract. This may be a symptom of pancreatitis, gallstones, cholecystitis, or duodenitis. Dryness of the oral mucosa in combination with dizziness can indicate hypotension.

Still can cause the phenomenon:

diabetes. In addition to frequent dryness, with this disease there is a constant feeling of thirst;
infectious diseases. With a cold, sore throat, flu, dryness occurs due to increased body temperature and increased sweating;
diseases or injuries of the salivary glands;
lack of vitamin A in the body;
Iron-deficiency anemia;
nerve damage in the neck or head;
stress, depression;
systemic diseases;
oncological diseases.

Ways to get rid of dryness
If dry mouth often bothers you and is accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms, you should consult a specialist. You may need to consult a physician, dentist, endocrinologist, rheumatologist or gastroenterologist.

If dry mouth is rare and is single in nature, you need to pay attention to the drinking regimen.

The amount of fluid consumed per day should be from 2 liters or more. You should take care of the humidity in the room. Humidifiers will help maintain its normal level.

Picture Credit: Pixabay

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Many families breed dogs, often with the goal of providing greater security in the home or simply out of love for the lesser brothers. And have you ever thought that our four-legged friends are also good doctors? Let’s see what kind of health benefits dogs can bring.
Dogs against depression
Why appreciate a dog? First of all, for her devotion. She loves her master simply for what he is, regardless of his material wealth, social status, appearance. It is this fidelity and unconditional love that create for the person a world in which he is comfortable and in which he is not alone.

Thanks to dogs, people feel that someone needs them, someone admires them and loves them. It is an effective remedy for depression.

This is especially important for the elderly. It is not for nothing that abroad in nursing homes contain dogs that help people compensate for some age-related manifestations.

Image credit: henriethaan

If older people get dogs at home, they have to go out more often, go to the store to buy food. Often, caring for a quadruped pet becomes the meaning of the life of an elderly person. In addition, dogs help their masters to expand the circle of friends and acquaintances. Of course, such a tool helps mainly those who love dogs since childhood.

A group of scientists from the United States studied the impact of communication between people and dogs on depression. The study involved 6 thousand people. It turned out that four-legged friends reduce the probability of depression by 60-70%. Also, dogs help to recover after a long treatment. The appearance in the hospital of a beloved dog brings even more emotion than communication with relatives.

Dogs from mental disorders

According to American scientists, dogs can significantly improve the condition of children with autism. They seem to return from another world into the real world.

In people with disabilities or suffering from psychological diseases, self-esteem rises, the state of loneliness disappears, and a belief in solving internal problems appears.

It is not uncommon for four-legged pets to save their masters from possible suicide. No matter how gloomy the internal state was, the look of the pet loaded them with positive energy, brought them back to life.

Facts about the benefits of seals

James Serpell of the group of animal studies at Cambridge University holds the view that pets tend to radiate kindness and support, which lacks relationships between people.

In some countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, dogs help patients with epilepsy. No one can explain how the tailed brothers less feel the approach of the attack of the illness, but they do it perfectly.

When the consciousness of the patient is disconnected, they substitute their body: thus, they absorb shock when seizures of those for whom they took “responsibility”. In addition, in case of accidents, dogs can call for help, referring to other people.

Dogs for children

Animals can be excellent teachers for children. Even toddlers learn to observe, draw conclusions, to foresee consequences. This can be understood by observing the communication of the child with the dog. Without saying anything, they understand each other and are friendly.

Image credit: Mondisso

Dogs teach children kindness and responsiveness. They can raise a respectful attitude towards others in the child.

In adolescents, a tailed friend reduces manifestations of aggression, develops a sense of responsibility, tolerance, kindness, independence. It is a faithful, understanding companion.

In addition, dogs expand their horizons. Children learn the features of animal nutrition, their behavior, understand the need to take care of loved ones.

And besides, it is important that dogs fulfill the duties of guards. Even small dogs can scare off their thieves, attract the attention of household members. With such a friend it is less dangerous to leave children alone in the apartment.

Dogs for heart and immunity

Dog lovers suffer less from hypertension. It is believed that by creating contact with the pet, stroking it on the wool, a person improves the indices of palpitation, breathing, and pressure. In addition, the dog’s saliva contains enzyme lysozyme, which destroys pathogens.

Studies have shown that those who keep dogs in the house, lower the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Some dog owners claim that to improve their well-being, they just need to have a tail tail close.

Suffering heart disease or easily excitable people are advised to start quiet pets. Scientific studies in Canada and Australia have shown that dog owners are less likely to turn to doctors, rarely use medicines.

Scientists from the universities of Finland and Germany have established that children in contact with dogs are 50% less likely to suffer from eczema, dermatitis, asthma.

Some pregnant women admitted that dogs in the house helped them to tolerate toxicosis more easily. This can be explained by the fact that the pet distracted himself from the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy.

A few words about dog hair. Warm mittens made of such wool are well protected against frost, and belts and scarves help in the treatment of sciatica.

Image credit: tranmautritam

Healing rocks

A good soothing effect is possessed by such breeds of dogs as labrador and shar pei. For children are good collie, risen schnauzer, boxer, Airedale, St. Bernard, Newfoundland.

Large dogs can give great help. Large dogs have high cardiac alpha-rhythm activity. And if you put your hand every day in the area of ​​his heart, then the dog will become for you a kind of “pacemaker”. US scientists have revealed that the highest percentage of survival after a heart attack in pet lovers. Observations during the year after the attack showed that the health of such people recovered better than the rest.

The superiority of the healing effect belongs to the Chinese crested dog. On her body there is no hair, and the body has a high temperature. It is believed that high degrees help in the treatment of radiculitis, skin diseases, joint diseases.

Dogs for the preservation of the family

Observations in the United States for married couples showed that those who kept dogs could easily pass through turmoil and resolve conflicts more quickly than “courageous” couples. One of the explanations for this phenomenon is that pets rally the family, create common interests.

Dogs for sports

Having a dog, willy-nilly forced to walk it every day, and in any weather. And this is a good sport. Some pets have an energetic character, forcing their owners to walk fast or even to run. By the way, every day the owner and dog go through great distances. Agree, without a dog it’s hard to get yourself to walk. Dogs play a role as an alarm clock, forcing the family to wake up, and the simulator.

Image credit: Motorbiene

The owners of dogs spend from 5 to 7 hours a week on traffic. Engaged in fitness – from 2 to 3.5 hours.

It turns out that dogs, helping their owners to engage in physical education, hinder the development of obesity, reduce the possibility of cardiovascular diseases, myocardial infarction, prolong life.

The post The Best Medicine Is A Dog appeared first on Just Some Stuff.

Image credit: Myriams-Fotos

Calcium

In addition to physical activity, it will help to make products and vitamins. The main element of protecting bones from destruction is calcium. A person on average should consume 100 mg of this product per day. Milk, hard cheeses, cottage cheese are the main suppliers of calcium. Cheese is generally an absolutely wonderful product for weight loss, invented even a special cheese diet that provides a sufficient amount of protein and calcium, unlike other mono-diets. For those who do not tolerate lactose, even dairy products without lactose exist today for people with intolerance to this hormone.

In addition to dairy products, a significant amount of calcium is in products such as Atlantic herring, mackerel, white cabbage, watercress, sesame.

But the use of calcium in tablets should be treated with caution. Medicines with calcium must necessarily contain vitamin D, because synthetic calcium can be absorbed incorrectly and lead to the formation of stones.

Vitamins

Saturate the body with calcium half the case. We still need to learn it. This will help vitamin D, which is found in quail eggs, fish and seafood, liver.

The formation of bone tissue is also impossible without vitamin A. It is absorbed only with fats, so do not forget to add a spoonful of cream to the carrot fresh, and fill the carrot salad with sour cream or olive oil! Another is regularly eating meat, cereals, eggs, because they have phosphorus – this element serves to restore bones.

And so familiar to us, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is abundant in citrus and currant, helps to synthesize collagen of bone tissue.

Zinc, magnesium and manganese

In addition to calcium, bones and joints need zinc. Without it, a person begins osteoporosis. Zinc is abundant in the liver, pork and beef tenderloin, poultry, cereals, beans and peas, and also in pine nuts.

Magnesium serves as a catalyst for phosphorus and potassium. First of all, this metal is needed for children, pregnant women and those who like to sit on a low-calorie diet. Wheat bran, sea kale, seeds, cereals, legumes – all are sources of magnesium.

Manganese improves the growth of cartilage and bones. Without it, the building of bone tissue slows down. To avoid this, you need to regularly include in your menu beets, spinach, green salad, garlic, macaroni of hard varieties, beef liver and mushrooms.

It is useful for strengthening bones to include in your meal fresh apricots, dried apricots, orange juice.

Dangerous products for bones

In addition to products useful for bones, there are also harmful ones. Tea, coffee, refined food, soda literally “wash away” calcium from the body. Consumption of such products should be reduced, and even better – completely eliminated.

Naturally, smoking affects smoking badly. Nicotine and tar provoke the covering of bones with pores, and this is the soil for very serious diseases.

Sausages and semi-finished products strike already at the joints. Crab sticks, minerals, baking powder and other products containing phosphates are also harmful.

Fish oil gives us the vitamin  – D

It is very important for connective tissues and interarticulate fluid hyaluronic acid. Replenish its amount will help mucopolysaccharides (cartilage of animals, birds and fish, chilli, broths, seaweed). From vitamins to joints the most important are D, C, E, K, B, A.

Movement is healthy joints and bones

Image credit: AngelicaBarbieri

One meal will not strengthen the bone, you also need physical exercises. Many believe that sports and fitness are needed only to form a beautiful body. However, it is not. Various loads (cardio, force) help to maintain bone mass and strengthen the bones.

First of all, joints are needed. They are created mobile and must fulfill their functions. From malnutrition or with a sedentary lifestyle, cartilaginous tissue loses its elasticity, becomes thinner, and as a result discomfort occurs during flexion and movement.

It is not necessary to become a fan of an active lifestyle. But here to find time for charging in the mornings is still very advisable! Give preference to exercises for flexibility and stretching with smooth movements – this rate perfectly tones the joints without hurting them. Great, if you decide to do yoga, swimming, start riding a bike or just buy an exercise bike for a house.

In principle, regular jogging is also useful, but during the run, listen to your body: pain in the knees is a sure sign that you need to reduce the intensity of the load on them. This is especially true for those who are overweight. In this case, replace the run on a pedestrian walk in nature or in city parks.

These measures to strengthen bones and joints will help prolong their health for many years.

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Massage

Image credit: rhythmuswege

Relaxing massage is an art that needs to be specially trained and then practiced for several years to achieve perfection. But a simple relaxing massage is in a position to be done by everyone, moreover, it can be made to oneself: by soft massaging movements, walk on each finger of the hand in turn, first one, then another, and then on the earlobes; Pads of fingers in a circular motion to massage the face, slightly more rigid movements – the scalp. It’s easy and it only takes a few minutes.

Water procedures

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Water is the best, the most powerful antistress agent. Almost all water procedures have a relaxing effect. When a person experiences a strong psycho-emotional stress, they offer him a drink; Resting best on the shore of the reservoir …

The opportunity to go to the sea is not always, but almost always you can take a shower while at home. To achieve a relaxing effect, turn on the warm water. If the shower is removable and equipped with a switch for water supply modes, you can make a water massage – it combines the advantages of conventional massage and water procedures. Better yet, relaxation in a warm bath. If there is no possibility to take a shower or a bath, you just have to wash yourself or hold your hands in the water for a few minutes on the elbow.

Aromatherapy

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We attach more importance to fragrances, we care that from us it is pleasantly smelled. Smells are very powerful: they can make the situation unbearable or, on the contrary, extremely pleasant. Do not underestimate the relaxation capabilities of fragrances. But there is a nuance – the individuality of the reaction to smells. You need to spend some time to find out which fragrances – perfumes, essential oils, flowers, etc. – help you to relax. An interesting fact: the scientists found one smell, which everyone likes. It was the aroma of freshly baked bread. Want to bring into the house an atmosphere of gentle kindness, rest and coziness – bake bread or, for example, a pie.

Breathing

Image credit: jill111

Yogis claim that respiratory practices are the most effective means of relaxation. Western researchers agree with the yogis. Suffice it to recall the special breathing techniques that women give birth. The simplest exercise is counting the breath. It is necessary to calculate how many respiratory movements you perform per minute, focusing on each movement. Another exercise is to do four short breaths, and the fifth is longer for a few minutes.

Art therapy

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Many common things, having received an unusual name, are perceived as something complex and difficult to access. So it happened with art therapy: it’s not necessary to study with a psychologist, it’s all that relates to art, but it’s not done to achieve a high artistic result, but to relax in the process. Art therapy is drawing, sculpting from clay and plasticine, painting pictures, jigsaw cutting, participation in amateur productions … One condition: you should like what you are doing, and what does not work should not cause irritation.

Sleep

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The best way to relax at all times is the best medicine. Sleep is a complete “reset” of the nervous system, a necessary condition for mental balance. There are many myths related to sleep, for example, that you need to sleep eight hours, and to sleep during the day is bad for your health … Of course, you need to sleep when there is a need for it, but it is different for everyone. Nevertheless, having established a night’s sleep, you can achieve a serious increase in stress resistance. Stresses will not be less, but they will be perceived differently, much less sharply.

Medicinal Relaxation

Sometimes you can not relax using the above methods, and the need for relaxation is extremely high. It happens when there is too much mental tension, which the nervous system can not cope with. If the situation is critical, you need to seek medical help.

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But if the mitochondria of the cells are rejuvenated with a strong dose of a specific variant of vitamin B their regenerative capacity receives a boost. Consequently, the ageing process of organs is thwarted and at the same time new cells are generated that causes the vital organs of the body to function with the original effectiveness or efficiency. This finding was observed and corroborated by a team of scientists and researchers at LISP (Laboratory of Integrated Systems Physiology) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The trial spearheaded by John Auwerx was carried out to demonstrate ‘nicotinamide riboside’-a vitamin B variant closely resembling B3-innate capacity to boost the functioning of organs and prolong the life of an organism. Mice at the laboratory were offered food laced with the nicotinamide riboside and the results pleasantly surprised the researchers. The compound resulted in improving the metabolism of the mammals and also enhanced the restorative mechanism of organs like the heart, kidneys, and the liver causing them to function with renewed efficiency.

Hongo Zhang, a PhD scholar and one of the members of the research team wrote an article detailing the findings that appeared in the ‘Science’ journal. The results of the study strongly hint towards the uplifting effects that NR has on stem cell functioning. Zhang and his peers from the University of Zurich and academes in Brazil and Canada got together to investigate the exact method of organ deterioration that got underway with ageing. He was able to determine the chain of molecules that monitored mitochondria’s functioning and its structural alteration with age by the application of numerous markers. The significant role played by mitochondria with respect to the human body’s metabolism was a fact that the researchers were already aware of.

But after this research was carried out, the team was able to pinpoint the significance of their smooth functioning to encourage stem cell production that in turn accelerated organ restoration. Organ restoration and renewal was extremely important for arresting and preventing the onset of several grave lifestyle diseases. Normally, stem cells hike up the process of new cell growth after receiving appropriate signals from the body. This is what actually happens in the bodies of young and middle-aged individuals but as one tends to grow older, the stem cells suffer fatigue that results in disintegration and deterioration of specific types of cells and tissues in organs. Regeneration of damaged or diseased organs also slows down considerably. Nevertheless, when mice aged about 2 years old were given NR that were predecessors of NAD+, a molecular compound that greatly influenced mitochondrial functioning, their muscular regeneration improved and they lived longer than mice that weren’t administered NR.

Image credit:  Jiri Vaclavek

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Basically, one should get an eye exam every year or two years. The reason for this is that eyes and eyesight can change due to a number of factors. Sometimes the changes can be good, sometimes bad, the proper physician or specialists can both prevent and repair anything that could or has happened.

The three physicians and specialists you’ll be seeing are ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians.

The ophthalmologists are actual doctors. They hold an MD or DO and they cover the full spectrum of eye care from glasses to surgery. They’ll also dispense other actions related to eye care. Basically they’re the overall expert for your eyes.

The optometrist has an OD or Doctor of Optometry. They’ve the skill and credentials to diagnose any eye problems , prescribe corrective glasses and contacts and other solutions. Performing surgery, however, is not what they’re licensed to do.
Opticians, are credential professionals in eye and vision care. They’re not doctors and are not licensed to treat eye and vision problems. They will however teach and inform a person on care and maintenance for eyeglasses and contacts.

If you’re going to an eye exam, make sure you bring as much documentation as well as prescription information regarding your medical history. This way the doctor can determine better if you need treatment or if you’re okay the way you are. Don’t forget to bring your eyeglasses and contact lenses for examination too.

Good eye health is a combination of factors. Nutrition being a big one. Eye care specialists will indeed ask you about your nutrition and any problems you’re having with eyesight may well call for a change in nutrition. The eye health specialist will probably have a nutritionist contact of some sort and if not they ask you to speak to your general practitioner who should.

If you’ve had any recent illnesses, you should inform your eye health specialist. Sometimes something as simple as a cold can be of importance as sometimes even the smallest amount of data only a trained specialist can detect as the cause of a problem.

Overall, keeping one’s eyesight healthy requires many steps and those steps are best delivered and taught by an eye health specialist.

Author Bio: Tony Rollan provides consulting services to VSI (http://www.patternless.com). He is an author of many articles on all types of optical, ophthalmic equipment and alternative medicine.

Image credit: Wavebreak Media Ltd

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Dr. Garth Webb, the scientist behind this new lens says that it can increase a person’s clear vision by 300%. Basically if you can see something and read the details at 100ft, you’ll soon be able to see it at 300ft.

This is startling to say the least but there’s real science behind it and clinical trials are starting soon. Dr. Webb’s new lens allows for long distance and short distance site thus removing the need for corrective lenses like contacts and eyeglasses. The procedure so far only takes about 8 minutes at that. Imagine, being able to walk into a doctor’s office and 8 minutes later being able to see like Superman.

It’s called the Ocumetrics Bionic Lens. The lens is surgically inserted into the eye much like today’s cataracts surgery. Dr. Webb even has his own corporation and is the CEO of Ocumetrics Technology Corp. and has spent years and millions of dollars doing the science, research, and application of this technology. He’s got the patents and is building a facility in Delta, B.C. (British Columbia). That being said, Dr. Webb is raring to go and expects that if there’s no stonewalling by regulators, the lenses and technique will be on the market in a few years.

The implications are enormous. People aged 25 and older are eligible for the surgery as by that age their eyes are fully developed. Military could use them in combat and daily operations making accuracy and efficiency in safety increase a thousand fold to say the least.

People who play sports could benefit as well and let’s not forget pilots and truckers who could use this enhancement to safely look for trouble in the skies and down the road. The average person would benefit the most with this lens. Everyday tasks could be done more safely and efficiently, parents could keep an eye out for their kids better and teachers could too. Police officers and firefighters as well as rescue personnel would be 300 times more efficient.

Just think of the lifeguard at the local pool or beach being able to see 3 times as better thus spotting trouble before it occurs. Talking about water, divers could increase their vision and find items, detect trouble, and other amazing things.

Dr. Webb has had his technology looked at by professionals in the field. At the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, industry leaders attended a meeting to look over Dr. Webb’s bionic lens and found the data highly promising. Most of the surgeons attending will attempt to do clinical trials in their countries as well.

Of course at first, there was skepticism regarding the bionic lens, but after studying the science, the top surgeons realized there is something there. As they progress through their research the process may get streamlined or even improved.

The first tests will be done on animals and humans who are blind. The first thing to see is if sight is restored, how well, and if any complications arise over time. When the clinical trials are done, it will then be available for application in humans on a general basis. Surgeons around the world will have to learn how to do the technique and of course overall costs will come into play.

It shouldn’t be more expensive than today’s cataracts surgery so the adjustment may be relatively minor. It’s just a matter of time before these lenses are out on the market and we may see changes in human life like never before.

Author Bio: Tony Rollan provides consulting services to VSI (http://www.patternless.com). He is an author of many articles on all types of optical, ophthalmic equipment and alternative medicine.

Image credit: Chakrapong Worathat

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as just a few weeks—while other progress over a much longer period of time.

Unfortunately, many alcohol consumers do not appreciate or understand the realities that alcohol has on the mind–most noteworthy it’s depressant-like effects. That is, as you come down off the alcohol might you crave more, or simply go to sleep, that typically the following day you will feel worse off or more depressed than you already were prior to your night of ‘social drinking’—and in many instances binge drinking. This is a key indicator reflective of inarguably a developing addiction.

Believe it or not, alcohol works directly on the neurotransmitters in your brain and plays on the dopamine and serotonin release in which in turn make you ‘feel good’, but also commonly lower your inhibitions and can cause you to make poor decisions or otherwise risky behavior such as unprotected sex or driving while under the influence.

What is a “High Functioning” Alcoholic?

To even those that might not realize it due to their continued “success” at work, school, and even social relationships, they will commonly fall into the category of now, or in the future; a ‘high functioning alcoholic’. That is, someone that continuously relies on alcohol as a coping-mechanism to deal with stress, anxiety, and other problems in an otherwise unhealthy and irresponsible manner.

Typically, such individuals will continue to progress and increase their amount of daily to weekly alcohol abuse, even when unbeknownst to them. Such individuals might joke about, play down the dangers, or even be in denial of their developing alcohol abuse habit—similar to many other substance abusers or ‘addicts’.

While alcohol is and will indeed perhaps (temporarily) make you feel better, in the long-run such individuals find themselves relying more and more frequently on alcohol for ‘unwinding’, while such behavior can even lead to ‘solo drinking’ or drinking by one’s self, drinking while driving, always being hung-over, or even sneaking alcohol into their drinks throughout the course of their days might it be at school, work, or other social gatherings. In comparison, many substance abusers and addicts also have similar behavior, constantly running to the bathroom or somewhere away from those around them to go and get ‘high’ to ‘feel normal’ or relaxed.

Sadly, many people might not catch themselves in time, and due to alcohol not being categorized as an illegal-substance for adults over 21 in the United States, lead to more severe substance abuse and reliance. Ultimately, continued and excessive alcohol abuse can damage the kidneys, liver, and even cause short-term to long-term memory loss while damaging the brain.

Just as seen with other substance abusers and substance dependencies, more and more alcohol will be required over-time to have the desired or same ‘effect’. May it be shifting from 3-4 beers to 9-12 over time, or by simply ‘upgrading’ to liquor as opposed to beer as their choice drink. Other behaviors of high functioning alcoholics include aggression and offensive behavior when addressed, as well as continued ‘black outs’ and even in some instances ‘binges’ that can last days on ends—as a self-proclaimed ‘vacation’ in which one might state or feel that they deserve.

Image credit: Karel Miragaya

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