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Tips to Manage Dental Anxiety and Stress

March 19, 2020 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

Not many people are excited to pay their dentist a visit. This is the case, despite the fact that the same people have been practicing the right oral care procedures. If you have found yourself having such dental anxiety, then you should feel relieved to know that you are not alone. In Canada, for instance, 40% of the people who usually visit a dentist usually have dental anxiety. That said, however, there are ways in which you can manage this fear, and actually have an easy time while at your dentists’ clinic. Read on to discover the top tips by Nashville Dental on how to go about this:

Talk to your dentist

This is probably the best way to handle the situation. If you feel that the anxiety is getting overboard, you should get such concerns off your chest. You will be surprised by how well the dentist and any of his or her assistants will respond to your concerns to make you feel at ease. You can actually bring it up at the time you are making the call to book your appointment. Once you arrive at the clinic, you should remind the dentist, so that he or she can take their time to ensure that you understand everything that is going to be happening during the check-up, and to ease your anxiety.

Some patients usually go to the extent of agreeing on a signal that they can use to communicate whenever they feel uneasy. This could, for instance, be very helpful when you feel pain even when on a local anesthetic. If you are in a position to talk, you can actually tell the dentist what you are feeling, for him to tell you if everything is okay, or for him to adjust his examination approach.

Have a close family member or friend accompany you for the check-up

Having a loved one accompany you for a dental check-up will do wonders for you, in as far as calming you are concerned. Knowing that the person who accompanied you is there to support you will make the situation quite bearable, and you will have definitely achieved the objective of managing your dental anxiety.

Use mindfulness techniques

There are times when you will need to simply enter into a state of relaxation in order to make the examination process bearable. Breathing exercises are an effective approach to this. By inhaling and exhaling slowly for a number of times, say five times, you will begin to feel calm right away.

Another way to achieve the much-needed calmness is to do a body scan, in which you concentrate on relaxing your muscles from the head to the toes. This helps you ease the tension gradually, thus helping out with dental anxiety and stress.

Take control over some of the examination procedures

Could be you don’t like the way your dentist reclines the examination chair. You can politely ask him or her to adjust it to a more upright position so that you can be in a position to communicate whenever you feel something is wrong. Such is an example of some of the things that you can do to feel that you have some control over the dental examination. This, therefore, comes up as one of the most effective ways to handle dental anxiety and stress.

In Conclusion

Dental examinations are not that exciting, and it is possible that you will develop some fear when you simply think about them. Two main things that you should know are that you are not alone and that this dental anxiety is manageable. Talking to your dentist, asking a loved one to accompany you, using mindfulness techniques, and taking control over some of the dental examination procedures are the best ways you through which you can manage the dental anxiety or stress.

How Smoking and Tobacco Affect Your Oral Health

March 11, 2020 By Essential Oxygen

Studies have linked smoking and tobacco use to a variety of health problems, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer. But one overlooked area that is significantly affected by tobacco is your oral health.

Smoking and chewing tobacco products can cause a range of issues that can affect the appearance and health of your teeth and gums.

Dental Problems Caused by Smoking

Cigarettes and cigars contain tobacco as well as a host of other chemicals and additives that are harmful to your health. Some of the dental problems directly related to tobacco smoke include:

Foul-smelling breath
An increased build-up of plaque – the by-product of oral bacteria which contributes to acid wear
The development of tartar – a yellow, calcium deposit that can only be removed by professional dental cleaning
Salivary gland inflammation which can inhibit the production of saliva necessary for cleaning and remineralising teeth
An increased risk of developing white patches on the inside of your mouth known as Leukoplakia
Jawbone loss
Increased likelihood of gum disease which may lead to tooth loss
Poor wound healing after dental procedures
The development of oral cancer

How Smoking Leads to Gum Disease

Smoking and other tobacco products disrupt the mechanism by which the soft tissue and teeth attach. Research suggests the compounds present in tobacco smoke interfere with gum cell function, which means they are unable to repair themselves efficiently.

Smoking also reduces blood flow to the gums, depriving them of essential nutrients.

Some of the visible symptoms of gum disease include:

Gums that bleed after brushing or flossing
Gums that pull back from your teeth exposing the root underneath
Swollen and tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth

Gum disease may not affect every tooth. Molars are especially prone to gum disease due to smoking since they are further back in your mouth and more challenging to clean effectively. If you use tobacco products, the best way to determine whether you have gum disease is with regular check-up’s at your dentist in Gravesend.

How Smokeless Tobacco Products are Dangerous

Many tobacco users believe that smokeless tobacco products such as snuff and chewing tobacco are less detrimental to oral health. However, chewing tobacco contains higher levels of nicotine than cigarette smoke making it more addictive and harder to quit.

The tobacco used in chewing tobacco and snuff contains more than 25 dangerous chemicals that significantly increase your risk of oral and oesophageal cancers. The tobacco leaf and continual chewing action also irritate your gums, causing them to recede. Gum recession creates deep pockets between your gums and teeth where food can become trapped and increase your risk of tooth decay.

Some brands of chewing tobacco also contain abrasive particles which erode the protective enamel layer of your teeth, exposing the dentin underneath, which increases tooth sensitivity, decay and discolour your teeth.

Smoking and Oral Cancer

Studies have shown a clear correlation between smoking and cancer. While lung cancer is the most prevalent form of tobacco-related cancer, more than 60% of mouth and throat cancer is caused by smoking.

Stained Teeth and Bad Breath

The most visible side effect of using both smoked and smokeless tobacco products is stained teeth. The primary active ingredient in tobacco, nicotine, is colourless. When it combines with oxygen, it turns yellow.

Tar, also present in tobacco smoke, has a distinct brown pigment and the porous surface of your tooth enamel absorbs these substances. The result is a dark yellow stain that can only be removed with professional teeth whitening.

Bad breath is another common problem with smokers and is caused by a variety of tobacco-related issues such as poor oral hygiene, tooth decay and oral bacteria. Residual tobacco smoke in the mouth can also cause bad breath, and while regular brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash can mask the smell, the only way to completely solve the issue is to quit smoking.

Side Effects of Chewing Tobacco

Cigarettes, cigars and pipe tobacco aren’t the only problematic ways of using tobacco. Chewing tobacco can also have a serious effect on your health. In addition to causing staining and bad breath, chewing tobacco can wear down your tooth enamel contributing to a range of problems from tooth decay to jawbone deterioration.

Chewing tobacco causes callouses to form where the wad is held and is linked to the development of oral cancer.

Some brands of chewing tobacco add sugar and flavourings, which can increase the risk of tooth decay due to the constant exposure of your teeth to sugar which causes acid wear.

The Effects of Tobacco Products on Oral Health

Using tobacco products has serious consequences for your oral health, from gum disease and tooth loss to oral cancer. No matter how long you have been smoking, quitting can significantly decrease your risk of oral health issues.

Even drastically reducing the amount you smoke can alleviate some of the symptoms of poor oral health. If you want to stop smoking and improve your quality of life, ask your dentist or doctor about products to help you quit.

5 Organic Beauty & Self-Care Products You Should Be Using

January 21, 2020 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

Being the largest organ in our body, our skin absorbs everything we apply onto it, and it can easily become a passageway for harmful and toxic ingredients to make their way into our system, largely affecting our whole body and well-being. As the last thing many of us want to do is ingest harsh and damaging chemicals through our personal care products, the best way to stay safe and maintain our overall health is to opt for beauty and self-care products that steer clear of synthetic ingredients, and focus on completely natural, plant-derived alternatives. If you want to clean up your beauty routine as well, here are some organic products you should be using on a daily basis:

1. Skincare products

From dyes and strong fragrances to parabens and silicones, commercial skincare products tend to be filled with synthetic ingredients that could have a potentially damaging effect on both the health and the beauty of your skin, causing anything from clogged pores and breakouts to irritation and certain skin conditions. That is why it might be best to opt for clean and non-toxic skincare products that only focus on natural and organic ingredients, in order to maintain the health of your skin, while achieving a more flawless and radiant complexion. You might also want to try using natural products as much as possible, and switch out traditional skincare items for healthier alternatives, such as using jojoba oil as a moisturizer or witch hazel as a toner.

2. Oral care products

Even though it’s something we do several times a day throughout our whole life, our oral care often goes overlooked when it comes to making the best choices for our dental and overall health. From harmful alcohol and BPA to the high amounts of fluoride we ingest during our regular oral care routine, the chemicals that are often found in traditional dental care products can be seriously damaging to the look and health of our gums and teeth. That is why it might be a good idea to switch to an organic toothpaste that is not only free from toxic and harmful chemicals, but also made from completely natural ingredients, such as aloe vera and coconut oil, which will ensure your pearly whites are as dazzling as they are healthy and strong.

3. Hair care products

Made with harsh and oftentimes toxic ingredients, such as synthetic perfumes, sulfates, parabens and certain foaming agents, traditional hair care products tend to strip your scalp from its natural oils and moisture, leaving it dry and irritated, which can be especially damaging to people suffering from a flaky and itchy scalp. Instead of worsening your condition by using such strong mainstream products, it might be best to choose a great organic anti dandruff shampoo and conditioner, in order to replenish that lost moisture and balance out your scalp with ample nourishment. Not only will you be able to reverse the damage and maintain the health of your scalp by using natural hair care products, but you might also improve the strength and the beauty of your hair, giving it a healthy shine and a voluminous bounce.

4. Deodorants

Although not necessarily a harmful ingredient, the aluminum found in traditional antiperspirants has been known to clog pores and prevent your body from producing sweat, ultimately not allowing the good bacteria on your body to flourish. That is why an increasing number of people are making the switch and opting for natural, organic deodorants made with safer and gentler ingredients, such as shea butter, eucalyptus, coconut oil and charcoal. Apart from preventing irritation and certain skin diseases, natural deodorants will also allow your skin to breathe, ultimately leading to healthier and balanced armpits. And while it might take some trial and error in order to find an organic deodorant that works best for you, it’s undoubtedly a conscientious decision worth making.

5. Feminine hygiene products

Many commercial tampons and pads contain certain materials and chemicals that can be harmful to your skin and your body, especially when it comes to such a sensitive area, which is why it’s essential to pay close attention to the types of products you are choosing. There are many natural and organic products on the market, such as chemical-free pads, tampons and intimate wipes, which will ensure your safety and help you nurture your feminine health. However, if you want to go the extra mile, you might even want to opt for period underwear or menstrual cups, which will not only be beneficial for your health, but will also help you reduce the waste you are making on a monthly basis, aiding you in becoming more eco-friendly and sustainable.

Whether it’s your skin, hair or even your dental hygiene, ensure you’re making a conscious choice when constructing your beauty routine by opting for safe and healthy products that will truly make you glow from within.

7 Healthy Gift Ideas

December 11, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

As the jolliest time of the year is approaching, many people have started wrapping their heads around what gifts to choose for their loved ones. The worry can be even greater if you have a family member, a friend, or some special person who takes meticulous care about their health. Luckily, nowadays you have a wide range of products to choose from for your health-conscious friends. What’s more, by giving them a healthy gift for the upcoming holidays will show that you truly care for them. Here is a thorough list that will help you narrow down your holiday shopping list for your loved ones.

1. Gifts for an Impeccable Smile

If your loved ones tend to take proper care of their pearly whites, then one of the most useful gifts would be healthy toothpaste. Not just any, but an organic one. Dental hygiene is the foundation of our overall health, and switching to organic toothpaste will upgrade their regular tooth brushing routine. By getting them Organic Toothpaste that doesn’t contain fluoride, glycerin, sugar, or sodium lauryl sulfate – you will be ensured that they are safe from numerous diseases and will have fresh breath at all times.

2. Gifts for a Fit Body

Staying healthy doesn’t only include paying attention to your food choices; on the contrary, it is a full immersion of your whole body, which also includes exercising. If your loved ones keep an eye on their health by exercising regularly, then another useful healthy gift would be gym equipment. Kettlebells, a skipping rope, a body-fat monitoring scale, a compact sports bag, or even a two-month paid gym membership. New gear will help them stay on the right track. To stay fit, they would also need more effort and motivation; so you can get them a book or DVD with guided exercises, dietary rules, and advice on how to have and maintain a healthy and fit body.

3. Gifts Giving Uplifted Energy

Many of us have a tendency to feel drained, overwhelmed and mentally exhausted. If you are in search of a gift that will help your loved one get on the right mental track, improve their mindfulness, restore physical and emotional health, then an acupressure mat gift is a great choice. Not only does it assist with head and muscle aches, but these mats offer an invasive treatment and act as a massager that helps release tension from the body. Scented candles, pillow mist perfumes, and aromatherapy are also good gift choices for reviving their mental energy. You can also give them a gift voucher for a spa weekend, that will ease them thoroughly.

4. Revitalizing Spirit

With a healthy gift search in mind, you need to consider that physiological wellbeing is amongst the top health concerns. Improve their spirit by getting a gift that will re-energize their stamina and uplift their mood. Sleep deprivation causes many mental discomforts, so you can get a sound machine or diffuser along with lavender oil essential that guarantees relaxation and de-stress treatment.

5. Gifts for Food Lovers

To stay in good and healthy physical condition, looking after healthy food intake is probably one of the most essential things. Even though during holidays your loved ones may not pay close attention to what they’re eating, give them a present that will enable them to keep a watchful eye on their food choices throughout the whole year. A cookbook from Jessica Koslow, one of LA’s finest chefs, which features delicious and health-conscious recipes. Then, a RawBox filled with delightful vegan delights and superfoods that will keep their healthy snacking in order. Or, why not just get a cool apron that will trigger them to start eating natural food cooked at home.

6. Exquisite Skin

Some of the most popular holiday gifts are beauty products. For all your loved ones who take special care of their skin health, there are a few sophisticated and quality gift ideas to choose from. For all-natural beauty regime, consider getting organic homemade lip gloss, exfoliating face mask, or aloe moisturizing creams. If you aim to get the most out of your money, you can get them a Kopari coconut product travel set which is free from parabens, sulfates, petroleum, and other bad ingredients.

7. Gifts For a Sharp & Eloquent Brain

Again, mental health plays a crucial role in general health, so give your loved ones something that will improve their brains. A meditative and relaxing coloring book is an interesting choice, a “Health” magazine subscription, or a set of fancy and useful felt tip pens. Since New Year always encourages us to make new and healthier resolutions, get them a “goals” diary or planner to keep track of their weekly healthy goals.
The holiday season should not be the only time to give healthy gifts to your loved ones. Looking after your health is an everyday struggle, so from time to time give them a new gift from this list, and you will ensure a care-free and healthy lifestyle.

Eco-Friendly Black Friday & Small Biz Saturday Deals

November 26, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

By: Emmi Buck

Holiday season is getting into full swing and you’re probably being bombarded with ads urging you to shop the post-Thanksgiving deals, but let’s all take a second and think twice about what we’re buying. Checkout our list below for deals that are a more eco-conscious way to shop on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

P.S. If you *must* get that killer deal on Amazon, please consider using AmazonSmile. You get all the same Amazon products deals, but a portion of the sale is donated to a charity of your choice. If you’re a charitable organization, make sure to sign up to be on AmazonSmile before Thanksgiving to get some potentially huge donations from the AmazonSmile foundation.

Black Friday Deals

Skylar Non-Toxic Perfumes

20% Off ~ Nov. 22nd-Dec.1

Skylar.com (online)

Did you know that since perfumes are a “trade secret” they don’t need to disclose their ingredients fully? YIKES! Thankfully, there is Skylar. Their founder previously worked for The Honest Company and became a lot more aware of everything she put in and on her body. While looking for a fragrance that didn’t contain allergens and harmful chemicals and smelled fresh and sophisticated, she couldn’t find one. That’s what motivated her to create Skylar. “After many months of working with world-class perfumers and testing our products in real life, we created a collection of perfumes that gave us the answer we were all looking for. Skylar is a brand of natural perfumes that you can feel great about spritzing. The name Skylar was inspired by the qualities of a clear day – airy, natural, and beautiful.”

Quip Black Metal Electric Toothbrush

$10 Target Gift Card: Regular $50, Get $10 “Off” Via Gift Card

Target (in store)

It’s the new high-tech toothbrush that everyone is raving about. It has a built-in 2-minute timer, and pauses every 30 seconds to indicate that it’s time to move to another quadrant of your mouth. Quip eliminates non-reusable toothbrushes with their sleek and long-lasting metal handle that re-charges, and refill tips to swap out when you’re ready for a new toothbrush head. You can even sign up for auto-delivery every 3 months so you don’t have to think about when to swap out the top! Bonus: every all-black Quip brush sold helps provide life-changing dental care to children in need, in partnership with Global Dental Relief.

#OptOutside – Opt To Act DIY Cleanup Kit

$10.00

REI / United By Blue (online)

As many of you know, REI closes its doors on Black Friday each year, and instead encourages people to get outside! Join this movement by (pre-Black Friday) purchasing the DIY Cleanup Kit formed by an REI & United By Blue partnership to encourage you to not only #OptOutside, but #OptToAct and help cleanup our planet! The kit comes with one pair of reusable work gloves (machine washable), one large reusable mesh bag (machine washable) for MOOP you find (matter out of place / garbage), and one exclusive Opt To Act bandana.

Segway Ninebot ES3 KickScooter with Dual Battery

$80 Off: ~~$599.99~~ now $519.99

Costco (in store)

Have you been wanting to make the switch from driving your fossil-fueled car to a more eco-friendly electric scooter? The Segway Ninebot ES3 will get you there with it’s 15.5 mph speed and 28 mile range. You can also choose to kick-pedal your way and get some exercise, plus it’s compact and light, so it’s easy to take into the office with you. Make the switch to electric without breaking the bank!

Pristine Protocol 3-Step Oral Care System: Organic Brushing Rinse, Organic Toothpaste, & Tooth Polish

15% Off: ~~$26.75~~ now $22.74 PLUS a FREE travel sized Organic Brushing Rinse 3 oz. mouthwash!

Essential Oxygen (online)

This revolutionary three-step system for optimal oral health and a radiant smile is designed to customize oral care needs since every mouth is different, using only natural ingredients. Since ingredient quality and eco-friendliness were of utmost importance, the Pristine Protocol features organic, vegan, gluten free ingredients and no synthetic flavors. The Organic Brushing Rinse is also biodegradable, so not only does it clean your mouth – it’s the cleanest product you can use while out camping or exploring mother nature. Get these amazing organic oral care products 15% off plus a FREE Organic BR mouthwash travel size to take with you for fresh breath on the go!

Small Business Saturday Deals

Shop Local / Small Online Shops

Deals Vary

Support your local businesses and small batch folks as well! If there are some small shops in your town, go show them some love this Saturday. Even small purchases help keep their doors open. You can also find good deals from individuals with small online shops, especially on Etsy. Looking for one of a kind, hip and unique glass items? Check out Bonny Collections on Etsy who will be doing 10% off for Small Biz Saturday.

Mama Strong Heart Handmade Salves, Balms, and Jewelry

25% Off

Mama Strong Heart (online)

Using only the highest quality plants and other ingredients, many of them grown in her garden or foraged, Jessica (Mama Strong Heart) creates high-vibration, highly effective, organic salves and balms. She has been practicing plant-based medicine for years and has a deep knowledge of the healing properties of the plants/herbs/oils she uses. Listen to her latest review: “With synthetic additives and artificial compounds becoming more and more linked to inflammation and other diseases, it’s great to find a product that is not only 100% natural and plant based, but organic as well. This stuff leaves my skin looking vibrant and puts my mind at ease knowing that the ingredients are about as safe as it gets. I use this product every day on my face, and any time I have dry skin anywhere. This stuff is pure gold!”

Sun Valley Remedies Organic, Handmade Small-Batch Lotions

15% Off With Code NOURISH15

Sun Valley Remedies (online)

Alison, founder of SV Remedies created these organic lotion blends with all natural ingredients to solve the issue she had been facing since her teens: a skincare solution that would agree with her sensitive skin. She handcrafts each batch with love from the company’s nature-inspired headquarters of beautiful Sun Valley, ID. These are hands-down the best lotions I’ve ever tried, and are very hydrating and nourishing, without any greasy feeling. My favorite scents are: Smarty Pants or Beach Baby to wake up, Knots Anymore for after a workout muscle massage, and Winter Blues for calming evenings or weather-cracked hands.

PSA: Don’t just support small businesses this one Saturday ~ challenge yourself to shop small as often as possible. Supporting small businesses is supporting individuals and their families. Small businesses tend to put people and planet before profit – so by supporting them, you’re supporting everyone’s overall health!

The Internet of Medical Things and What It Includes

November 21, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

The Internet of Things has widespread use nowadays and by connecting various devices, it has impacted many industries and areas of life. One of those areas is definitely medicine and therefore, we also have the Internet of Medical Things – connecting medical devices and applications to the healthcare system. There are many benefits that the IoMT provides us with, from faster and more affordable care through easier communication between patients and physicians all the way to collecting valuable data and insights. Keep on reading to learn more about the great things that telemedicine has brought into our lives.

A Variety of mHealth Apps

Mobile health or mHealth refers to apps used on mobile devices that allow individuals to monitor and take care of their health. There is a wide variety of apps on the market currently and they are made for smartphones and tablets as well as for smartwatches and other wearable devices. For instance, there are some that remind people to take their medicine, others that provide first-aid advice and those that measure blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Plus, there are many apps that help prevent certain conditions like bad posture, for instance. While there are some concerns about the accuracy of certain health apps, checking their rating and whether they are recommended by some experts is the best course of action.

The Option of Virtual Hospitals

Another benefit of telehealth is the option of having online access to healthcare services right from the comfort of one’s home. That means that hospital waiting times are minimized and the risk of catching some other airborne disease while in the waiting room is reduced. In addition to being treated in their own home, virtual hospitals also allow individuals access to specialists that can easily diagnose their medical issues. Furthermore, patients also get to save money as they will not be traveling to the hospital nor paying for accommodation if they’re from out of town.

The Convenience of Teledentistry

Teledentistry is a branch of telemedicine that uses IT and telecommunications to provide patients with dental care, consultations and education. For teledentistry to work, a computer or tablet with the appropriate software and a stable internet connection are needed as well as intraoral cameras and portable X-ray devices that can capture images. Seeing how the need for equipment is reduced, this method is a great way to help people from rural areas get quality dental care; plus, the overall cost of dentistry can be lowered.

The Ability of In-Home Monitoring

In addition to not having to go to the hospital for a check-up, telehealth also includes remote patient monitoring technology which can benefit plenty of patients. For example, RTM devices can be used to monitor a patient’s glucose levels or heart activity and alert their doctor in case a problem occurs. Moreover, these intelligent devices can be remotely accessed by the patient’s physicians and family.

The Ease of Communication

Not having to make an appointment in the hospital to get some valuable advice makes communication between patients and physicians much easier. This works great for people from rural areas who cannot travel to the city or people with disabilities that simply do not have a way to visit a healthcare institution. Video and photo sharing apps and services make it much easier for doctors to see the condition of the patient without them having to come in. Additionally, test results can easily be sent to the physician’s phone and they’ll have them immediately. Finally, communication is much better among doctors as well. Having an expert available in a certain field, who might live overseas, can make solving health problems much more efficient.

More Accurate Diagnoses

With the help of various apps that allow tracking certain bodily metrics, the accuracy of diagnosis can also be increased. For example, there are devices that could indicate conditions such as atrial fibrillation and diabetes, plus some key parameters like blood pressure and brain activity can be collected regularly. What is more, diagnosing a medical issue is made much easier thanks to the real-time communication that smartphones allow. Being able to contact a specialist who studies and deals with certain conditions in depth can allow physicians to come to a conclusion when it comes to what is ailing their patients. Also, access to previous similar cases and various medical books through the internet and their mobile devices means that doctors can save a lot of valuable time.

More Accessible Education

Just like researching and diagnosing certain conditions is made much easier thanks to the IoMT, so is education. Nowadays, many medical books, studies, research, and unique medical cases can be found online. This means that any physician or aspiring healthcare worker can educate themselves further. Moreover, an increasing number of schools are relying on the e-learning approach to provide education to a wider pool of people and implementing cloud-based technologies that allow their students to share knowledge and various insights much faster. Finally, taking into account the potential of streaming various events all over the world, important surgeries could be broadcast even to countries that don’t usually have access to such advanced medical procedures and educate the medical experts in those places as well.

Seeing as how telemedicine is becoming more widespread with each passing day, the examples listed above are definitely not the only uses where the IoMT can be found. However, it’s good to know that everything from diagnosing to treating certain issues will soon be improved and expanded upon thanks to the seemingly never-ending advances in computing and technology.

[INFOGRAPHIC] 10 Ways Sleep Can Help You Live Longer

November 14, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

In order to live a happy, productive life, you need to prioritize sleep. The benefits of getting a good night’s sleep go way beyond feeling well rested. Sleep can actually make you live longer, and it’s been directly linked to better decision making, faster response time, and a healthier body and mind.

Despite all the studies about the benefits of sleep, 1 in 3 people aren’t getting enough of it. The best way to make sure you are getting your recommended 7 to 9 hours of shuteye is to create a nighttime routine. Since 40% of our actions are done out of habit, an evening schedule that prioritizes a good night’s sleep will ensure that even on your most stressful day, your body can get itself ready for bed.

Read on to discover the key ingredients to a successful nighttime routine.

How to Get a Good Night’s Rest with a Nighttime Routine

There are a lot of things getting in the way of our sleep. Personal goals, hobbies, family, and work obligations can all cut into our snooze time. Further, stress and anxiety from personal and professional situations can also keep us awake at night.

A nighttime routine can help you get the shut eye you need even when you are feeling overwhelmed. This is because 40% of our actions come out of habit, so working a sleep routine into your evening habits will get your body ready for bed despite distractions.

Here are some routines to work into your evenings:

Put the phone away before bed: In order to prepare your body for REM sleep, you should be skipping a social media scroll right before bed. The blue lights from your phone are tricking your body into thinking it is earlier than it actually is, which can impact both falling asleep and achieving a full sleep cycle. Put your phone away two to three hours before bed and don’t check it again until morning.

Don’t drink alcohol: A glass of wine before bed may make you feel tired, but it’s not helping you achieve an REM sleep cycle. Alcohol reduces your body’s chances of getting a good night’s sleep, so opt for a healthier alternative like a warm bath or aromatherapy.

Take care of your oral hygiene: Don’t forget to wash your face and brush your teeth before you go to bed each night. You should be brushing your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Brushing your teeth at night is especially important because saliva production decreases during sleep. From approximately 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. our liver cleanses our blood due to our body’s natural cleansing process. Get optimal oral health results with Essential Oxygen’s organic oral care products.

Avoid late naps: You shouldn’t be napping in the evening, because this can make it harder to fall asleep. If you do need a nap, take it earlier in the day and try to limit your sleep to 30 minutes.

Practice gratitude: Rather than watching tv before bed, try practicing thankfulness instead. Keeping a gratitude journal on your nightstand can help you clear your mind and fall asleep feeling grateful and ready for the day ahead.

Bestow has created this visual on how sleep can extend your life to help you get even more out of your sleep. Discover why a nighttime routine is essential for your success with the visual below!

Infographic from HelloBestow.com

5 Tips For Infant Oral Health

November 14, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post

They say that the significant part of success in our life comes from the good habits we learn as children. Good habits are very substantial in growing stages. No matter what we choose to do in life, our good practices will guide us right.

Most of the successful people had attributed their success to the good habits cultivated in them when they were young. This growing awareness has made it a vital part of parenting.

When it comes to our children, we always want the best. We try to be the best parents for them. We help them overcome their fears and guide them in the right direction. We teach them valuable lessons in life that will help them achieve success. But the best thing you can instill in your children is healthy habits.

Teaching the significance of health and hygiene to our children is essential. Did you know that children under five years of age are more receptive to learning than their older counterparts? That is why you must begin inculcating good habits in your child at an early age.

So at what age should you begin instilling good habits in your child? While most parents ponder over this question, experts suggest the earlier, the better. You may start with the most fundamental but necessary healthy habit in children- oral health.

Often parents tend to neglect oral health and hygiene in their children until they are 3 or 4 years. Nevertheless, experts advise that oral health should begin at infancy itself.

Infants do not develop teeth until they turn two. Still, their mouths are susceptible to fungal infections or thrush.

Here are a few tips you can follow to maintain good oral health and hygiene for your infant.

1) Clean your baby’s mouth after every feed-

Did you know that teeth in babies begin to develop in the second trimester itself? They may not be visible yet, but they are fully formed in the jaws. The first teeth, however, begin to appear after a year or so. Even before this, you can take precautions to keep your baby’s mouth clean, preferably after every feed. Milk is the primary diet for infants under six months of age. It contains enzymes and acids that may cause the formation of the plague. Hence, you should clean your infant’s mouth with a soft gauge and water. Just wrap a fresh piece of gauze around your finger and gently rinse your baby’s mouth with it. It will ensure that there is no sticky residue for the bacteria to breed.

2) Avoid putting your baby to sleep with a bottle-

Cleaning your baby’s mouth after every feed may not be enough to avoid decay. You should also protect them from a condition called ” Bottle mouth.” This phenomenon occurs when your baby’s gums stay in contact with sugar for a long time. If you are in the habit of putting your baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice, this will undoubtedly harm your infant’s oral health. The sugar in the milk will destroy the protective layer on the teeth and cause decay. If your baby needs a bottle to suck on while sleeping, make sure it is only water.

3) Restrict the use of feeding bottles-

You should curb the use of feeding bottles and keep them only for feeding. If your infant is in the habit of sucking on feeding bottles for a long time, this may be bad for their oral health. Continuously sucking on feeding bottles erodes the enamel, leading to tooth decay. Moreover, it is also responsible for changing the shape of the gums and may give rise to crooked teeth.

4) Avoid feeding sugary drinks or food to your infant-

If your infant is still on liquids, you may want to introduce various juices to bring a variety to their palette. However, adding fruit juices can be quite disastrous for their oral health, especially if your child is taking them through a feeding bottle. They can also cause a specific sugar addiction in infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that fruit juices are the significant cause of tooth decay in infants and should be entirely avoided. If you like your infant to have a varied diet, vegetable juices may serve to be a healthier option because of their less sugar content.

5) Correct use of bottle teats and pacifiers-

Bottle nipples and pacifiers come in close contact with your baby’s teeth. Even if you are limiting the use of bottles, you also need to ensure that they are thoroughly cleansed. Bottle teats and pacifiers can be a breeding ground for germs that can wreak havoc to your infant’s oral health. Also, it may be sensible to wean them off pacifiers once they are two years or older. Prolonged use of pacifiers is also one of the significant contributors to tooth decay in infants. Once the decay has eroded the teeth, the only approach will be to extract the teeth. But, this process is now more relaxed with the latest IV sedation dentistry.

Tips to maintain good oral health in older infants-

Once your baby is a bit older, you may notice several teeth erupting. It may be the right time to introduce them to good oral health practices.

Here are a few tips to ensure proper oral health in infants above one year-

1) Once you notice a set of erupting teeth in your infant’s mouth, you may introduce them to a fluoridated toothpaste. You can use a silicone brush with soft bristles to clean their teeth. Flossing is only required once the teeth start touching each other.

2) Gently massaging their gums will help soothe and stimulate the eruption of the teeth.

2) You can use a soft brush to clean your infant’s tongue as well.

3) Regular visits to the dentist will ensure that your infant’s teeth are growing healthy.

4) Once your infant turns into a toddler of two years or above, teach them to properly rinse their mouth after every meal to avoid tooth decay.

Conclusion-

Many parents do not give importance to oral hygiene in their infants, thinking that their milk teeth will eventually fall. While this is true, you need to teach good oral habits in your child at an early age. These are the habits that they will ultimately carry into their adulthood as well. Also, you need to set a good example for your child by following good oral hygiene yourself. If they see you caring for your teeth, they will eventually follow suit.

5 Healthy & Eco-Conscious Updates For Your Home

October 31, 2019 By Essential Oxygen

Guest Post ~ Claire Hastings

In the pursuit of lifelong peace, health, and happiness, there is a need for each and every one of us to break free from the shackles of consumerism and the wasteful modern way of life, and embrace a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Among the most rewarding changes you can make in your routine that will allow you to build a healthier home while safeguarding the future of Mother Earth are recycling and re-purposing, growing your own foods, and minimizing waste production in your home.

After all, if there are people who can fit one year’s worth of trash into a single mason jar, then you too can significantly contribute to the preservation of the environment. That said, there are still some interesting and reward solutions you can consider, so let’s take a look at the five eco-conscious changes you need to bring into your household.

Start by eliminating everything that’s unhealthy

The first step towards a healthier home and a healthier environment is to make a conscious decision to eliminate all unhealthy products from your home. This goes for food, makeup and oral care products, cleaning products, and everything in between. Yes, it can seem like a cumbersome task at first, but there’s no need to rush. Rather, take the time to organize this project according to each room in your household.

You can start with the kitchen, and eliminate all unhealthy foods. Next, you can move on to the bathroom, and throw out all of those toxic cleaning supplies that not only harm your long-term health but the health of the environment as well. And finally, you can start replacing non-organic materials with sustainable and eco-friendly décor.

Opt for handmade, eco-friendly décor

Over time, you can choose to slowly replace the décor elements in your home that are difficult to clean, or have been obtained through non-sustainable means with organics and hand-made materials that support the local artisans at no cost to the long-term well-being of the natural world. Take your time, and look for the décor pieces that not only work with the theme of each room, but boast certain health benefits as well.

For example, a beautiful jute rug in the living room or beneath the kitchen island can serve as the perfect standing spot that won’t irritate the soles of your feet, because it was made from all-natural materials. Likewise, organic linens and pillowcases are perfect if you’re looking to protect your skin from synthetics.

Choose organic and sustainable clothing

While we’re on the topic of organic materials, it’s important to pay special attention to the clothes you wear on a daily basis, and the materials they’re made of. The most sensitive areas of the body that are always in contact with some form of synthetic material are the feet, the nether regions, and the breasts, and these are the areas that are most prone to irritation.

This is why switching to bamboo women’s socks, for example, can make a big difference in the long run and help you avoid irritation while providing that lovely comfy feeling. Likewise, consider switching to organic bamboo panties and bras to prevent irritation and ensure comfort, while at the same time doing your part to safeguard Mother Earth by knowing that you’re buying sustainable items.

Clean your home the natural way

One of the most important elements of a healthy and eco-conscious household is the way you clean your home. If you’re used to proprietary, big brand cleaners, then it’s time to make a change and switch to all-natural cleaning products such as Essential Oxygen’s Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide that you can use for a variety of cleaning needs, all the while preserving the environment and ensuring that your home is toxin-free.

Bring health and sustainability into the kitchen

On a final note, let’s address the need to bring health and sustainability into the busiest room in every household – the kitchen. Not only should you stop buying unhealthy foods, but you should also make sure that you’re cooking with healthy cookware, that you’re storing your food in glass instead of plastic containers, and that you’re consuming locally-sourced, low-pesticide foods on a daily basis. This will allow you to lower your environmental impact, support the local economy and small businesses, and build a healthier home for you and your family.

In closing

There are many wonderful ways you can make your home more sustainable and eco-friendlier in the long run, but the best thing you can do is to combine some healthy personal habits with eco-conscious solutions to safeguard your home, your family, and the natural world. Be sure to use these tips to build a healthier future for all.