Oliversmile's Blog

20 BUSINESSES YOU CAN START IN NIGERIA WITH LOW CAPITAL

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 21:39:00 +0000

When it comes to setting up a business, many people think it always requires a huge amount of money, sometimes that can be so but at the same time there are lot and lot of businesses you can do with not very huge amount of money. in this article we will take a look at 20 businesses you can do with money as low as even 10,000 Nigerian Naira. now get yourself a cup of coffee, a jotter and a pen, let's talk business.

1. Bedsheet/Beddings Production.

Pay a visit to Lagos Island, or Aba where they sell bulk materials, pick good designs and I tell you they guys who will sew it for you are just within the same Market. You can start will less than 100k and diligently grow your money.

2. Shirt Production:

A sweet side hustle. There are tailors in Lagos Island or Aba,better learn the skill it will save you all the heartbreaks imaginable. . Materials ranging from 700 – 1k per yard, sew for 1500/2k, Sell for 5-7k.

3. Boxers:

Schedule a trip to Aba Market, The cost of production of boxers, you can get one for as low as N300, all you need is to package it in 3s, and market it properly, beg your friend on twitter for RTs, we buy 3s pack boxers for 1500-2500 sell yours for 1200 gradually grow.

4. E-Payments and POS Business:

You can get POS machine from your Bank, and activate online banking: If you live in a place where banks aren’t much you can handle e payments for people and make your small change. I paid someone N200 to withdraw 10k most places, ATM queue can be crazy.

5. Mobile and Electronic Accessories:

Mobile and electronic Accessories such Pouches, Chargers, USB cables, HDMI cables, earphones and more, can be sourced on Alibaba, Ali Express, Deal Extreme, etc. The more you buy the lower the price. And they are light so shipping won’t be a burden. Sell on here or Jumia and co.

6. Popcorn:

We all know this ....We buy every time. Bags of corn – Branded Nylon Sugar, Salt & Butter. The beauty of this is when properly made, its aroma will attract its customers. Manual sealing machine -7/9k Popcorn Machine is 65k on Jumia Popcorn can be served anywhere. It costs less than N40 to make a pack of popcorn

7. Branding – Sales and Customizing:

Sales and Customizing of Football Team Football team supporters always want to show how much they’re rooting for a team.

8. Snail Farming:

Snail farming in Nigeria is even more popular, due to its relatively cheap cost of startup and If you market your products well, your business will thrive. This is a business you can start from your backyard. Best in mind, snails take almost a year to mature so Patience is Key!

9. Fairly Used Goods:

Fairly used goods such as Jeans, Tops, t-shirts, shoes etc. They could be sourced at Badagry, even Cotonou. 100k can’t get you a bale but you can select and mix them. Wash then and pack neatly. Marketing is all it takes, you’ll Sell and see your money multiply.

10. Cleaning Services:

Some people find it hard to clean their apartments cos they’re busy from Monday to Friday and Saturday they have engagement and on Sunday all they wanna do is rest. Your tools won’t cost you up to 30k and you can clean 6 apartments a weekend.

11. Home Cooking and Delivery:

You can cook a variety of meals well and apply customer service, People will pay good money for your services, You can run this from home ‪@Hot Pots are more than capable when to comes to training you on how to start up.

12. Digital Marketing:

The success of any business is in its ability to effectively reach its teeming customers and this is achieved by effective marketing: Get a Used Laptop and Smartphone, temporarily your smartphone can double as your hotspot Persistence and Passion is Key ‪@I_pissVodka‬ ‪@OlisaOsega‬ are your friends in this regards, I’m sure they are more than willing to train you on how to go about it from the foundation.

13. Cakes and Confectionery:

This is one business that always comes to play, people celebrate, and bakers are always consulted. Get the required skill, a decent oven, passion and customer service! You’ll grow.

14. Aso-Oke Beading and Stoning:

Aso-Oke Beading and Stoning has become sometimes in vogue now, and this is another sweet business one can start with 100k. You just have to learn how to bead and unlock your creative mind. Ask my friends ‪@wuragold2‬ , the Aso Oke Girl and @ Funchrisaso_oke , the Aso Oke Empress both started from the confines of their homes in Ibadan.

15. Bead Making:

I’m not sure there’s really much to say here. All you need is training, passion, creativity, unique designs and styles, then adequate marketing. You absolutely don’t need 100k to start this.

16. Home Service Barber:

This is another profitable small-scale business. The beautiful thing about this is you bring your services to your clients for an extra token above regular. The starting capital to get the equipment and I’m sure you know we have rechargeable clippers.

17. Tutorial Classes:

No matter your age, this is another well-paying job, either as part-time or full-time. Many families are willing to spend what it takes for their children’s success and there’s one subject you’re well versed at. Just close the gap, meet their need for a fee.

18. Internet Services:

Forget the extensive coverage of internet and the fact that people can assess it on their phones, Do you know how much applicants pay just to have Jamb applications filled online? You need a good system, printer & ISP. People pay as much as 1k per application

19. Production Of Zobo, Smoothies, cocktail, small chops, cupcakes and chinchin!

You’d realize the importance of this combo cant be ruled out. You can render these services with 100k startup capital + proper marketing, branding and packaging....just get a good place to learn how to make them.

20. Re-Invest Your seed Capital in an existing business:

Not everyone has the head for business but they can sniff opportunities. You can always sow your money as operating capital and draft an agreement on profit sharing. You can at least support your investment by bringing customers so the business can thrive. Market it on all your social media pages and who knows.

Your Menstrual Cycle

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 02:32:00 +0000

The menstrual cycle is the regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system (specifically the uterus and ovaries) that makes pregnancy possible.

The first period usually begins between twelve and fifteen years of age, a point in time known as menarche. They may occasionally start as early as eight, and this onset may still be normal. The average age of the first period is generally later in the developing world and earlier in developed world. The typical length of time between the first day of one period and the first day of the next is 21 to 45 days in young women and 21 to 35 days in adults (an average of 28 days). Menstruation stops occurring after menopause which usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. Bleeding usually lasts around 2 to 7 days.

Understanding your menstrual cycle

Women’s cycle lengths vary, and the most common cycle length is somewhere between 23 and 35 days. Any variation in menstrual cycle length that does occur is more likely to be during the part of the cycle before you ovulate (which is called the follicular phase). For most women, the length of time between ovulation (when an egg is released from the ovary) and their monthly period is between 12 to 16 days (this is called the luteal phase).

The Menstrual Cycle

Your period

The first day of your menstrual cycle is the first day of your period (day 1). The period usually then lasts anything from 3 to 7 days. You’ll probably find that if you get any period pains, they’ll be at their worst in the first few days of your period. This is because the hormones in your body are causing your womb to actively shed the lining that was built up in the previous menstrual cycle.

Preparing for ovulation

At the beginning of your cycle follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in your brain. This is the main hormone involved in stimulating your ovaries to produce mature eggs. Follicles are the fluid-filled cavities in your ovaries. Each follicle contains one undeveloped egg. The FSH stimulates a number of follicles to develop and start to produce the hormone estrogen. Your level of estrogen is at its lowest on the first day of your period. From then on, it starts to increase as the follicles grow.

Now while a number of follicles initially begin to develop, normally one follicle becomes “dominant” and this egg matures within the enlarging follicle. At the same time, the increasing amount of estrogen in your body makes sure that the lining of your womb is thickening with nutrients and blood. This is so that if you do get pregnant, the fertilised egg will have all the nutrients and support it needs to grow. High estrogen levels are also associated with the appearance of ‘sperm-friendly’ mucus (or, to give it its technical name, fertile cervical mucus). You may notice this as a thin, slippery discharge that may be cloudy white. Sperm can swim more easily through this mucus and can survive in it for several days.

Your body produces hormones which control your menstrual cycle. At the start of your cycle one important hormone is follicle stimulating hormone [FSH]. The rise in FSH stimulates the follicles in your ovaries [fluid filled cavities that each contain one undeveloped egg] to develop and to start to produce another hormone called estrogen.

Understanding The Ovulation Cycle

Ovulation

The level of estrogen in your body is still increasing and it eventually causes a rapid rise in luteinising hormone (the ‘LH surge’). This LH surge causes the dominant follicle to rupture and release the mature egg from the ovary, from where it enters the Fallopian tube. This process is known as ovulation.

Many women think that they ovulate on day 14, but 14 is an average, and most women will actually ovulate on a different day of the menstrual cycle. Your day of ovulation will vary from cycle to cycle.. Some women claim to feel a twinge of pain when they ovulate, but many feel no sensation at all and there’s no other sign that you are ovulating.

An accurate way to identify your personal fertile days is to detect the changes in these key fertility hormones using an ovulation test.

Other commonly used methods to estimate when your most fertile days are for example, ovulation calendar methods, basal body temperature or saliva, are less accurate than hormone monitoring and are more likely to be affected by external factors such as illness or medication.

The level of estrogen in your body is still increasing and at a certain level it causes a rapid rise in LH [LH 'surge']. This LH surge triggers ovulation, where an egg is released from the ovary. Although many women think they ovulate on day 14, the actual day of ovulation will vary depending on your cycle length. Some women feel a twinge of pain when they ovulate.

After ovulation

Once the egg (or ovum) has been released, it moves along the Fallopian tube towards your womb. The egg can live for up to 24 hours. Sperm survival is more variable, but typically 3-5 days, so the days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself are your most fertile – when you are most likely to get pregnant. As soon as you have ovulated, the follicle starts producing another hormone: progesterone.

Progesterone causes further build up the lining of your womb in preparation for a fertilised egg. Meanwhile, the empty follicle within the ovary starts to shrink, but carries on producing progesterone, and also starts to produce estrogen. You may get symptoms of pre-menstrual tension (PMS) such as breast tenderness, bloating, lethargy, depression and irritability at this stage.

Once the egg has been released it moves along the Fallopian tube towards your womb. The egg lives for 12-24 hours, but because sperm can live for several days you are at your most fertile and most likely to get pregnant if you have sex without contraception on the day that you ovulate or the day before. As soon as you have ovulated the collapsed follicle starts producing another hormone called progesterone.

Preparing for the next period…

As the empty follicle shrinks, if the egg is not fertilised, levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease. Without the high levels of hormones to help maintain it, the thick womb lining that has been built up starts to break down, and your body sheds the lining. This is the start of your period and the beginning of your next menstrual cycle.

As the empty follicle shrinks, if the fertilised egg has not implanted into the womb, your level of progesterone decreases. The womb no longer needs to maintain an environment to support a baby so your body needs to reset ready for the next cycle. Any PMT (Pre-Menstrual Tension) symptoms that you have will start to decrease. Without the high levels of hormones to help maintain it, the thick womb lining which has built up starts to breakdown and your body will shed this. This is the start of your period and the beginning of your next cycle.

If the egg has been fertilised and implanted into the womb, the empty follicle is maintained by the increasing level of pregnancy hormone [human Chorionic Gonadotrophin]. It continues to produce estrogen and progesterone for much longer until the placenta is mature enough to support the developing embryo.

If the egg has been fertilised, it may successfully implant itself into the womb lining. This usually takes place about a week after fertilisation.

As soon as the fertilised egg has implanted, your body starts producing the pregnancy hormone, human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG), which will keep the empty follicle active. It continues to produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone to prevent the lining of the womb from being shed, until the placenta (which contains all the nutrients the embryo needs) is mature enough to maintain the pregnancy.

"Healthy" coconut oil is "one of the worst foods you can eat" Harvard professor says

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 02:23:00 +0000

Coconut oil is the rave right now, with hair, skin, and nutrition enthusiasts hailing it as a healthy fat. But according to a medical professor at Harvard University, the "healthy" oil is actually "one of the worst foods you can eat".

Dr Karin Michels described the oil as "pure poison" and claimed it is more likely to clog arteries than lard in a speech given in Germany last month.

The professor at Harvard’s School of Public Health – who also heads the tumour research centre at the University of Freiburg – made the claims in the 50-minute German lecture that has now become a viral hit on YouTube.

Her lecture, titled Coconut Oil and other Nutritional Errors, was widely shared by those concerned that coconut oil is actually not as healthy as was previously thought. Among other things, she told her audience that "coconut oil is pure poison," and "it is one of the worst foods you can eat", according to a translation by Business Insider. The professor said the oil is worse than lard – made from pig fat – yet 70% of Americans believed it to be one of the healthiest oils available.

Dr Michels’ claims follow a move by the American Heart Association (AHA) last year to update its guidelines, which recommended that people avoid the saturated fatty acids found in coconut oil.

Health professionals are sceptical as there is no study that has shown any significant health benefits of coconut oil consumption.

According to Michels, coconut oil is more dangerous than lard because it almost exclusively contains saturated fatty acids, ones that can clog the coronary arteries. You can identify fats that contain large quantities of saturated fatty acids by checking to see whether they remain solid at room temperature, as is the case with butter or lard. Based on the fact that they contain a lot of unsaturated fatty acids, experts recommend olive or rapeseed oil as an alternative.

Glaucoma- The Thief of Sight

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 02:02:00 +0000

In this article, you will find answers to the following questions;

What is glaucoma?

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

How can glaucoma be treated?

How can glaucoma be prevented?

What Is The Meaning Of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve and can result in vision loss and blindness. However, with early detection and treatment, you can often protect your eyes against serious vision loss.

The Optic Nerve is a bundle of more than 1million nerve fibers, it connects the retina to the brain.

The Retina is the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eyes.

Syptoms Of Glaucoma

At first, open-angle glaucoma has no symptoms. It causes no pain. Vision stays normal. Glaucoma can develop in one or both eyes. Without treatment, people with glaucoma will slowly lose their peripheral (side) vision. As glaucoma remains untreated, people may miss objects to the side and out of the corner of their eye. They seem to be looking through a tunnel. Over time, straight-ahead (central) vision may decrease until no vision remains. Glaucoma is detected through a comprehensive dilated eye test that includes the following:

Visual Acuity Test.This eye chart test measures how well you see at various distances.

Visual Field Test. This test measures your peripheral vision. It helps your eye care professional tell if you have lost peripheral vision, a sign of glaucoma.

Dilated Eye Test. In this test, drops are placed in your eyes to widen, or dilate, the pupils. Your eye care professional uses a special magnifying lens to examine your retina and optic nerve for signs of damage and other eye problems. After the exam, your close-up vision may remain blurred for several hours.

Tonometry is the measurement of pressure inside the eye by using an instrument (right) called a tonometer. Numbing drops may be applied to your eye for this test.

Pachymetry is the measurement of the thickness of your cornea. Your eye care professional applies a numbing drop to your eye and uses an ultrasonic wave instrument to measure the thickness of your cornea.

Treatments Of Glaucoma

Glaucoma treatments include medicines, laser trabeculoplasty, conventional surgery, or a combination of any of these. While these treatments may save remaining vision, they do not improve sight already lost from glaucoma.

Medicines. Medicines, in the form of eyedrops or pills, are the most common early treatment for glaucoma. Taken regularly, these eyedrops lower eye pressure. Some medicines cause the eye to make less fluid. Others lower pressure by helping fluid drain from the eye. Before you begin glaucoma treatment, tell your eye care professional about other medicines and supplements that you are taking. Sometimes the drops can interfere with the way other medicines work. Glaucoma medicines need to be taken regularly as directed by your eye care professional. Most people have no problems. However, some medicines can cause headaches or other side effects. For example, drops may cause stinging, burning, and redness in the eyes.

Many medicines are available to treat glaucoma. If you have problems with one medicine, tell your eye care professional. Treatment with a different dose or a new medicine may be possible. Because glaucoma often has no symptoms, people may be tempted to stop taking, or may forget to take, their medicine. You need to use the drops or pills as long as they help control your eye pressure. Regular use is very important.

Make sure your eye care professional shows you how to put the drops into your eye. For tips on using your glaucoma eyedrops.

Laser Trabeculoplasty. Laser trabeculoplasty helps fluid drain out of the eye. Your doctor may suggest this step at any time. In many cases, you will need to keep taking glaucoma medicines after this procedure.

Laser trabeculoplasty is performed in your doctor’s office or eye clinic. Before the surgery, numbing drops are applied to your eye. As you sit facing the laser machine, your doctor holds a special lens to your eye. A high-intensity beam of light is aimed through the lens and reflected onto the meshwork inside your eye. You may see flashes of bright green or red light. The laser makes several evenly spaced burns that stretch the drainage holes in the meshwork. This allows the fluid to drain better.

Like any surgery, laser surgery can cause side effects, such as inflammation. Your doctor may give you some drops to take home for any soreness or inflammation inside the eye.

You will need to make several follow-up visits to have your eye pressure and eye monitored. If you have glaucoma in both eyes, usually only one eye will be treated at a time. Laser treatments for each eye will be scheduled several days to several weeks apart.

Studies show that laser surgery can be very good at reducing the pressure in some patients. However, its effects can wear off over time. Your doctor may suggest further treatment.

Conventional Surgery. Conventional surgery makes a new opening for the fluid to leave the eye. Your doctor may suggest this treatment at any time. Conventional surgery often is done after medicines and laser surgery have failed to control pressure. Conventional surgery, called trabeculectomy, is performed in an operating room. Before the surgery, you are given medicine to help you relax. Your doctor makes small injections around the eye to numb it. A small piece of tissue is removed to create a new channel for the fluid to drain from the eye. This fluid will drain between the eye tissue layers and create a blister-like “filtration bleb.”

For several weeks after the surgery, you must put drops in the eye to fight infection and inflammation. These drops will be different from those you may have been using before surgery.

Conventional surgery is performed on one eye at a time. Usually the operations are four to six weeks apart. Conventional surgery is about 60to 80percent effective at lowering eye pressure. If the new drainage opening narrows, a second operation may be needed.

Conventional surgery works best if you have not had previous eye surgery, such as a cataract operation. Sometimes after conventional surgery, your vision may not be as good as it was before conventional surgery. Conventional surgery can cause side effects, including cataract, problems with the cornea, inflammation, infection inside the eye, or low eye pressure problems. If you have any of these problems, tell your doctor so a treatment plan can be developed.

Can Glaucoma Be Prevented?

Currently, regular eye exams are the best form of prevention against significant glaucoma damage.

Early detection and careful, lifelong treatment can maintain vision in most people. In general, a check for glaucoma should be done:

· before age 40, every two to four years

· from age 40 to age 54, every one to three years

· from age 55 to 64, every one to two years

· after age 65, every six to 12 months

Anyone with high risk factors should be tested every year or two after age 35. Those at higher risk include people of African descent, people with diabetes, and people with a family history of glaucoma. You are at increased risk if you have a parent or brother or sister with glaucoma.

Timely Diagnosis and Appropriate Treatment are Key to Glaucoma Prevention

While there are no known ways of preventing glaucoma, blindness or significant vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented if the disease is recognized in the early stages. In its most prevalent form—primary open angle glaucoma—vision loss is silent, slow, and progressive. It typically affects side vision first (peripheral vision) and as it progresses, central vision is lost.

Glaucoma medications slow the progression of glaucoma by reducing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent damage to the optic nerve. Surgical treatments are also available.

Benefits of Exercise

A regular program of moderate exercise will benefit your overall health, and studies have shown that moderate exercise such as walking or jogging three or more times every week can have an IOP lowering effect.

The benefits from exercise last only as long as you continue exercising; this is why moderate exercise on a routine basis is recommended. Yoga can be beneficial, but it’s best to avoid inverted positions such as headstands and shoulderstands, as these may increase IOP.

Talk with your doctor if you have specific questions or concerns about starting an exercise program.

Protect Your Eyes

Wearing protective eyewear is important when engaged in sports activities or home improvement projects.

Eye injuries can result in traumatic glaucoma or secondary glaucoma, so protecting your eyes from injury is another way to prevent glaucoma.

Effective Methods You Can Do Today to Get Rid of Termites

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 03:49:00 +0000

Although termites are an essential part of the ecosystem, outside of nature they can be quite destructive when they set their sights on our homes and businesses. If their progress remains unchecked, they can cause massive damages total thousands of dollars in repairs.

Taking these factors into consideration, we can see how vital it is that homeowners and business owners identify signs of termite infestation and learn about different methods on how to kill termites naturally.

WARNING: Not All Termite Infestations Can Be Eradicated Via DIY Termite Treatment

Identify Signs of Termite Infestation

There are two major groups of termites that may be causing the damage. These are known as subterranean termites and wood termites.

The signs of infestation will vary depending on which type of termite is present.

Subterranean termites reside underground and build their colonies on the soil. They leave behind telltale signs of mud tube formations on the external-walls of a building.

You may also notice swarms of winged-termites or discarded wings in the affected areas. Wood termites have the tendency to attack pieces of wood furniture.

You may notice sawdust on the floor along with cracked and damaged paint finishes. Small particles around the base of the damaged furniture are probably frass, the droppings of wood termites.

There are several methods one can attempt to rid an area of termite infestation. If you opt to tackle the problem yourself, there are several techniques that can be researched further to find out how to get rid of termites naturally.

1. Exposing the Area to Sunlight

For a fact, termites are extremely susceptible to sunlight and actually die off when they they’re exposed to it and its consequent heat.

It can help to clear out any covering vegetation around areas where a subterranean colony has taken up residence. An even more effective solution might be to dig up the targeted section and expose the termites directly to sunlight.

For termite infested furniture, it may help to air the pieces of furniture outside in the bright sunlight during the hottest part of the day. This can kill off any termites that may be hiding inside the furniture and out of sight.

2. Eliminating Moisture

For the most part, it is known that termites thrive and multiply in areas that are rich in water moisture. Keeping this in mind, you can ensure that the interior of the room or building is kept dry and that any moisture prone areas are repaired.

It will also be helpful to look around the perimeter of the building and ensure that there are no water pools or water leakages in contact with the foundation.

3. Using Heat and Cold Treatments

For drywood termite infestations, it is possible to find a solution using heat and cold treatments.

In order to prepare for a heat treatment, you must first remove certain items from the building. This is because, during a heat treatment, a forced, heated air flow is pushed into a sealed structure with temperatures of up to 140 degrees.

The treated area has to reach a temperature of 120 degrees for thirty five minutes in order to successfully kill the colony. When cold treatments are used, an extremely cold temperature of 15 degrees must be maintained for four days to be effective.

To control termite with chemicals, you might want to check the following active product used in controlling termites.

Terra Prefilled Liquid Ant Baits

Terra Prefilled Liquid Ant Baits

First of all, Terra Prefilled Liquid Ant Baits are perfect for either indoor or outdoor use. They take two to three days before they begin to work efficiently, but this is because the ants check in, take the bait, and then spread it to their friends and family. Each pack contains six different bait stations. Further, all of the chemicals are contained inside these stations, so there are no messy poison spills or sticky, messy madness. Additionally, the stations also prevent the bait from drying out.

It is recommended that you use all six baits at a time and strategically place them in the ant's known trails so you can get the full effectiveness of the product. These baits are not a quick solution. It takes two to three days before the results are seen because you have to give the ants time to grab the bait and spread it around. It will eventually reach the queen and kill all of the ants. To gain complete control over the infestation, allow up to two weeks. The baits will remain effective for three months.

One of the main ingredients found in the Terra baits is borax. Borax has a low toxicity for people and animals. However, it is still recommended that you keep them out of your pet’s reach.

Affordability

Finally, one box contains six separate baits and the Amazon price for this box is under $5. You also have the option of bigger packs for even more significant results for just a few dollars more.

Raid Max Double Control Ant Baits

Raid Max Double Control Ant Baits

Second on the list is raid Max Double Control Ant Baits, which are individual child-resistant ant baits that should be placed against walls, along baseboards, under the sink and cabinets, and any other areas you have seen ant activity. Further, the active ingredient in these baits is abamectin. It is recommended that you use all of the baits at once. Take them out of the package and separate them before placing them in the desired locations.

Additionally, these baits will remain active for up to three months but will take a few days before you will see results. The double control formula attracts the ants to the bait and then they carry the bait to their colony and reduces the population before killing them off entirely.

Lastly, Like other ant baits, the toxicity levels are low which makes it safe to use around people and animals. But, as always, you should still try to avoid placing them where your children or pets can get to them.

Affordability

One box of Raid Max Double Control Ant Baits can be found on Amazon for under $10. Moreover, Each box contains eight baits, and you are recommended to use at least four at a time if not all of them.

Maxforce Bait Stations

Maxforce FC Ant Bait Stations

Third, we've got Maxforce Bait Stations, which can be used indoors or outdoors. They provide quick control over your ant infestation and will start killing within the first six hours, with full control after four days. Additionally, the active ingredient is Fipronil and has a domino effect kill. The bag is resealable to keep the unused baits fresh and away from contamination. Plus, they have an easy peel and stick adhesive for quick and easy placement. It is recommended that you place them along the known ant trails. Finally, use one bait per 100 square foot space. You can easily relocate them if you don't see any activity. This product is useful for most kinds of household ants and should be replaced every three months.

Affordability

One bag contains twenty-four baits. On Amazon, one bag comes in under $30 which is reasonable, due to how many baits you are receiving per bag.

Amdro Bait Stations

Amdro Bait Stations

Fourth, we've got the Amdro Bait Stations, which can be used indoors or outdoors and are easy to use without any drips, spills, or messes. Place them along the ant trails you have found. The bait attracts the ants who then take it back to their colonies and share it; the bait eventually reaches the queen, and once the queen is dead, the whole mound dies. However, it does not work immediately; you need to give it a few days for the bait to reach the queen. The active ingredient is borax and is not harmful to people or animals, but it is still suggested to keep the bait stations out of reach. These baits are also child resistant, prefilled, and ready to use.

Affordability

One box of Amdro Ant baits contains six baits for the low price of under $10. Moreover, you will want to use at least three at a time, placed in strategic locations.

Combat Source Baits

Combat Source Kill Ant Baits

Last on the list is Combat Source Baits, which work through ingestion. The slow-working, but effective traps lure the ants to the bait, and then the bait is shared among the entire colony. These baits kill using a domino effect and will eventually reach and eliminate the queen. Full control can be seen after a few days of use. Further, it is recommended that you place these traps along the ant trails, but relocate them if you don't see any action. These baits remain active for up to three months before it is recommended that you replace them. Moreover, the poison is fully confined in a child-resistant bait, and there are no vapor or fumes, no mess, and no spills. You should also use more than one bait at a time.

Affordability

One box of Combat Ant Baits contains six separate baits for the Amazon price which is under $10

"Nothing about me right now is perfect" - Serena Williams opens up as she covers TIME magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:31:00 +0000

Tennis star, Serena Williams is the cover star of this month’s Time magazine and she opened up about her complicated comeback.

The 36-year-old, who welcomed a child only a few months ago and soon went back to begin playing professionally, spoke at length to writer Sean Gregory about her struggles on the court and also about her motherhood fears. She also discussed her marriage with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, admitting she was surprised she fell in love with a white man.

On the Time cover, Serena, who nearly died after complications from an emergency C-section while delivering her daughter Alexis Olympia, is seen clad in a black crop top that exposed her midriff. A thin scar can be seen on her abdomen, with the coverline reading: "Nothing about me right now is perfect. But I’m perfectly Serena."

Speaking about her marriage to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, Serena said she always assumed she would marry a black guy but she and Alexis just clicked when they met.

She said: "I always assumed I’d marry a black guy. I always felt that I could relate more with a black guy, that we’d have more struggles in common, you know?"

Serena's need to return to tennis and also her need to never leave her daughter collided when her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, told her that unless she stopped breastfeeding Olympia, she would not return to the top of the tennis ranks. But Serena refused and nursed Olympia for the first eight months of her life.

Serena’s coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, says she made choices that put her family above her career, including staying home with Olympia and Ohanian rather than going early to Europe for clay-court prep.

He said: "I felt the decisions were taken through the angle of the family, where before, every decision was taken through the angle of tennis. This is a big difference. Even if you are Serena, if you want to be successful in tennis, tennis has to be priority No. 1."

Serena believes breastfeeding her daughter made it harder for her to get back into playing shape but said that was her utmost priority.

Speaking to Time, Serena said: "You have the power to sustain the life that God gave her. You have the power to make her happy, to calm her. At any other time in your life, you don’t have this magical superpower."

Speaking about Mouratoglou telling her to stop nursing, she said: "It’s absolutely hard to take from a guy. He’s not a woman, he doesn’t understand that connection, that the best time of the day for me was when I tried to feed her."

Olympia is almost always on her mother’s mind and Serena keeps looking for ways to balance her life as an athlete and as a mother.

"Sometimes she just wants Mommy, she doesn’t want anyone else," Serena says, nearly choking up. "I still have to learn a balance of being there for her, and being there for me. I’m working on it. I never understood women before, when they put themselves in second or third place. And it’s so easy to do. It’s so easy to do."

She also revealed that she fell prey to peer pressure on social media by posting a photo of her post-pregnancy body on Instagram. She says now that she used a waist trainer to push in her stomach so she could impress.

"I hated that I fell victim to that," she says. "It puts a lot of pressure on women, young and old."

Serena also spoke about how motherhood affects women in the workplace. Since returning to the tour, for example, Serena has spoken out about gender discrimination in the workplace, questioning why women coming back from maternity leave should lose their seeds in a tournament draw.

Williams was the top-ranked player in the world before she had Olympia. At the French Open, she did not receive a seed–a penalty that could dissuade other players from having children.

"It would be nice to recognize that women shouldn’t be treated differently because they take time to bring life into this world," Serena says.

She’s not the first player to come back after giving birth, but it wasn’t until she did that the U.S. Open pledged to incorporate maternity decisions into its seeding process.

Serena also addressed discrepancies in drug testing. The United States Anti-Doping Agency has tested Serena five times in 2018, according to its records. Meanwhile, Sloane Stephens, who won the U.S. Open a year ago, has been tested once. Serena called such differences "discrimination" on Twitter and thinks it’s because some people won’t accept that she’s clean.

"Look at me," she says, glancing at her herself in a mirror at home. "I was born this way. They’re like, ‘Oh, she can’t be that great, she must be doing something.’ I don’t even lift weights. It’s all God, you know. But whatever."

Serena says she wants Olympia to have a sibling. She’s learning on the job, like all parents. She still gets down, and has moments when she doesn’t want to hang out with Olympia and then feels terrible for it. And then there’s all the time she can’t bear to pry herself away, despite knowing that her game will suffer for it. But mostly, Serena is learning to recognize the swings, tell herself they’re normal and fight the urge to beat herself up.

"Nothing about me right now is perfect," she says. "But I’m perfectly Serena."

Three Ways Older Americans Can Benefit From Chiropractic Care

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:06:00 +0000

As a nation, America is getting older. So too is its population, with 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day. And even if you don’t want to admit it, you are most likely experiencing the same nagging aches and pains that you thought only plagued your parents.

Assuming you’re one of the nation’s 100 million chronic pain sufferers, in all likelihood you’re looking for a safer alternative for treatment other than opioids – especially with headlines of people becoming addicted to prescription painkillers and even dying from them. To see if drug-free chiropractic care is for you, read on.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Fight Presenteeism At Work

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:04:00 +0000

Even with a stronger economy, businesses face an uphill battle when it comes to making a profit. Which is why it’s not surprising that much of a company’s success hinges on its employees. But what if an employee is fighting a medical condition or illness? How impactful is that to a business’s bottom line? It turns out: quite a lot.

Unlike absenteeism, according to a recent study, presenteeism – when people show up for work but don’t or can’t perform at full capacity – isn’t always apparent. You know when someone doesn’t show up for work, but you often can’t tell when – or how much – health problems, including chronic conditions such as back pain, headaches, and arthritis, can leave them muddling through the day.

Virtual Colonoscopy Is Becoming a Reality for More People

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:03:00 +0000

Colorectal cancer deaths are slowly declining, but shocking racial and ethnic disparities remain.According to the American Cancer Society, Latinos living in the United States are more likely to develop and die from this disease than those in many Central and South American countries. African-Americans are at least 41 percent more likely to die from colorectal cancer than whites.Both groups are also less likely to get screened, and their cancers are often found later.What can be done?A growing number of medical groups, patient advocates and members of Congress say virtual colonoscopy – known medically as CT colonography – can overcome cultural stigmas and anxiety associated with this screening."CT colonography can attract those who would otherwise not be screened, allow doctors to remove more polyps before they become cancers and help people avoid getting this disease," says Carolyn R. ("Bo") Aldigé, president and founder of the Prevent Cancer Foundation.The evidence is thereVirtual colonoscopy is an American Cancer Society-recommended screening exam. Studies show that it is as accurate as standard colonoscopy in most people – including those 65 and older.Virtual colonoscopy increases screening rates where it is offered in the U.S. and abroad. Former President Obama chose to have the virtual exam.Michael Sapienza, President and CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance, says the virtual exam can "jump-start screening by offering access to a less-invasive option that millions of screening age who choose not to be tested find more appealing."Unfortunately, the prep is the sameHowever, the virtual exam is far less invasive than standard colonoscopy. The CT scanner uses low-dose X-rays to make 3-D, moving images of the colon that doctors examine for polyps and cancer.The test does not require sedation. It is over in minutes. And you may not need someone to drive you to the exam. Afterward, you can go back to daily activities.Private insurers are starting to listenThirty-six states require that insurance policies sold in their state cover virtual colonoscopy. Insurers who take part in federal exchanges are required under the Affordable Care Act to cover the exam. CIGNA, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and other insurers cover these tests irrespective of ACA requirements.Challenges remain for Medicare patientsScreening those on Medicare with virtual colonoscopy may cost nearly a third less than standard colonoscopy. Yet, Medicare is among a shrinking number of insurers that does not cover the test."We need more Medicare-covered options, including CT colonography, to increase Hispanic screening rates and save lives," says Elena V. Rios, MD, MSPH, president and chief executive officer of the National Hispanic Medical Association.Patient and provider groups want Congress to pass a new bill that would provide Medicare coverage for virtual colonoscopy."With Medicare coverage, CT colonography can increase screening and reduce unnecessary deaths," says Judy Yee, MD, chair of the American College of Radiology Colon Cancer Committee.Find more information on virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) at RadiologyInfo.org/virtualct.

Cancer Research Focuses on Growing Tumor Cells Outside the Human Body

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:00:00 +0000

One of the great barriers to improving the fight against cancer has been the problem of growing human cancer cells for drug testing so they behave as if they were inside the patient.To answer this, pharmaceutical companies are beginning to grow human tumors in mice. But mice are not human, so the tests often lead to dead ends. And while it’s possible to grow tumor cells in petri dishes, they rarely behave like actual cancers.But now this problem is being solved by a company called Precision Therapeutics Inc(NASDAQ:AIPT), formerly Skyline Medical Inc (NASDAQ:SKLN), and its partner, Helomics.Precision Therapeutics and Helomics, through a subsidiary named TumorGenesis, are pioneering an approach that takes cancer cells from a patient, then analyzes the tumors’ genes and proteins. That information is crucial because it guides the selection of nutrients and other substances that the cells need. The final step is putting the cancer cells not in a petri dish, but rather on a special scaffold that’s bathed in the nutrient-rich media.The result: "For the first time, it will be possible to grow tumors outside the body that closely mimic those in the body," explains Dr. Carl Schwartz, CEO of Precision Therapeutics.That, in turn, will bring major benefits for cancer treatment and drug discovery. Cancer is actually many thousands of different diseases, each with different underlying DNA mutations.That’s why drugs that are effective against one person’s ovarian cancer may fail utterly against another’s. But with the ability to grow the cancer cells from patients outside the body, doctors will be able to test drug combinations to discover what works before treating the patient, thus saving people from debilitating side effects from ineffective drugs.Equally important, pharmaceutical companies will have a far better and lower-cost way to test drug candidates than testing on mice. It’s yet another key step towards personalized cancer treatment that will give every patient a much better chance of long-term survival.

The Road to a Healthy Smile

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 00:59:00 +0000

As much as we all love having a healthy smile and gums, a new national survey reveals many U.S. adults miss the mark when it comes to caring for their teeth and gums, putting them at risk for periodontal disease, which affects one in every two adults over age 30. One of the biggest no-nos? Eating a snack at night after having already brushed your teeth, which one-third of those polled admitted to. On the plus side, respondents show a willingness to floss more regularly – in fact, you’ll be surprised at the odd places we admit to flossing. For healthy teeth and gums the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) recommends brushing and flossing twice daily and regular visits to your periodontist for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, and most importantly to Love The Gums You’re With.

Americans Are Flossing in the Strangest Places

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 00:57:00 +0000

Where have you flossed other than your bathroom? If you’re like nearly 40 percent of Americans, the answer is… in a car.How about on a date? Seven percent admitted to flossing on a date. Another six percent said on an airplane, and then there was the five percent who said in a work meeting.While experts agree that even some flossing – no matter where – beats none at all, the survey by Atomik Research for the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) illustrates a bit of a dichotomy: Only seven percent of Americans name flossing as most important to their personal care routines when it comes to perfecting their smiles, revealing that adults can be better educated about healthy smiles and gums."Healthy gums are the foundation of a great smile," said Steven R. Daniel, DDS, president of the AAP and a practicing periodontist in Murfreesboro, Tenn. "Taking care of your gums means more than just flossing when there’s popcorn stuck in your teeth or when you’re killing time in traffic. It also requires integrating diligent at-home care into your personal care routine and regular visits to a periodontist to ensure your mouth is healthy and free of periodontal disease."So when it comes to our personal care routines, how much of a priority do we place on flossing?Among those surveyed who said they do floss, only 23 percent rated it the single most important part of their personal care routine, as opposed to:* Brushing their hair (48 percent)* Applying moisturizer (38 percent)* Shaving (32 percent)* Cleaning their ears (25 percent)The good news is periodontal disease is preventable and actually reversible by rethinking your oral health regimen. Follow the advice of periodontists – dentistry’s experts in the treatment and prevention of periodontal disease – by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and having an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Taking these steps will soon give you that strong smile we all crave.Visit Gumblr.org for more information, including articles and quizzes, and to find a periodontist near you who can create a personalized plan to help support a life-long commitment to healthy gums.

Amazing Health benefits, Uses, Production & Risk of ‘Honey’

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 01:16:00 +0000

Honey is a lovely & sweet liquid food substance produced by bees and some related insects with the use of nectar from flowers, graded by color, with the clear, golden amber honey often fetching a higher retail price than the darker varieties. Bees produce honey from the sugary secretions of plants (floral nectar) or other insects (aphid honeydew) through regurgitation, enzymatic activity, and water evaporation. Honey is stored in wax structures called honeycombs. The variety of honey produced by honey bees (the genus Apis) is the best-known, due to its worldwide commercial production and human consumption. Honey is collected from wild bee colonies, or from hives of domesticated bees, a practice known as beekeeping. The flavor of a particular type of honey will vary based on the types of flower from which the nectar was harvested.

Honey gets its sweetness from the monosaccharides fructose and glucose and has about the same relative sweetness as sucrose (granulated sugar). It has attractive chemical properties for baking and a distinctive flavor when used as a sweetener. Most microorganisms do not grow in honey, so the sealed honey does not spoil, even after thousands of years. Honey provides 46 calories in a serving of one tablespoon (15 ml) equivalent to 1272 kJ per 100 g. Honey is generally safe but may have various, potentially adverse effects or interactions upon excessive consumption, existing disease conditions, or use of prescription drugs. Honey use and production have a long and varied history as an ancient activity, depicted in Valencia, Spain, by a cave painting of humans foraging for honey at least 8,000 years ago.

Honey is produced by bees collecting nectar for use as sugars consumed to support the metabolism of muscle activity during foraging or to be stored as a long-term food supply. During foraging, bees access to part of the nectar collected to support the metabolic activity of flight muscles, with the majority of collected nectar destined for regurgitation, digestion, and storage as honey. In cold weather or when other food sources are scarce, adult and larval bees use stored honey as food.

By contriving for bee swarms to nest in human-made hives, people have been able to semi-domesticate the insects and harvest excess honey. In the hive or in a wild nest, the three types of bees are:

a single female queen bee
A seasonally variable number of male drone bees to fertilize new queens
20,000 to 40,000 female worker bees. Honey is collected from wild bee colonies or from domesticated beehives. On average, a hive will produce about 65 pounds (29 kg) of honey per year. The honey is stored in honeycombs. Wild bee nests are sometimes located by following a honeyguide bird. The bees may first be pacified by using smoke from a bee smoker. The smoke triggers a feeding instinct (an attempt to save the resources of the hive from a possible fire), making them less aggressive and the smoke obscures the pheromones the bees use to communicate.
Production
The honeycomb is removed from the hive and the honey may be extracted from that, either by crushing or by using a honey extractor. The honey is then usually filtered to remove beeswax and other debris. Before the invention of removable frames, bee colonies were often sacrificed to conduct the harvest. The harvester would take all the available honey and replace the entire colony the next spring.
Since the invention of removable frames, the principles of husbandry lead most beekeepers to ensure that their bees have enough stores to survive the winter, either by leaving some honey in the beehive or by providing the colony with a honey substitute such as sugar water or crystalline sugar (often in the form of a “cardboard”). The amount of food necessary to survive the winter depends on the variety of bees and on the length and severity of local winters.
Facts About Honey
- Honey can replace sugar in meals, which is the best health wise
- They also add browning and excess moisture to a dish
- Honey is linked to wound-healing properties and antibacterial action
- Honey is used in medicine for over 5,000 years
- Natural cough remedy
Honey a Remedy for;
Experts who have worked and studied honey says that it could be used for various purposes including application on skin, and also as a remedy for the following:

Stress
Weakness
Sleep disturbance
Vision problems
Bad breath
Teething pain, in children over a year old
Cough and asthma
Hiccups
Stomach ulcers
Diarrhea and dysentery
Vomiting
Bedwetting and frequent urination
High blood pressure
Obesity
Jaundice
Hangover relief
Eczema and dermatitis
Burns, cuts, and wounds
Arthritis
A solution for a cracked, dry, pimply, or clogged skin.

Source: yarnmi

Check Out The Best Fruits For Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 00:21:00 +0000

Picking the best fruits for weight loss is always struggle because different people ranging from family, friends, and dieticians, have so many different things to say.

Millions of people battle with their weight and are constantly on the lookout for what to eat to lose weight in 2 weeks or fruits for weight loss and glowing skin. It is a known fact that fruits provide the body with numerous essential vitamins and minerals, however, it will be of help to understand how so as to know the other types of food to pair with each fruit.

Whether you are trying to burn belly fat in 7 days or making a list of vegetables for weight loss. Drinking water will help you lose weight and frequent fruit diets, but these dietary efforts must be complemented with exercise.

Here are the best fruits for weight loss.

Pear

Watermelon

Berries

Banana

Lemon

Grapefruit

Apple

Orange

Pineapple

Avocado

10 Highly Fattening Foods

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 00:13:00 +0000

Fattening foods are said to be the most delicious. Fatty foods can be junk food, or certain food items consumed in large quantities and are certainly unhealthy.

Numerous people consume fattening foods to gain weight however, it is not a healthy practice as they tend to leave your body with one problem or another. Sometimes, fattening foods are confused with a good protein diet.

Do not be fooled, some of your healthy foods can be fattening, hence, control of serving sizes. Some foods are high in fats and calories; however, a moderate serving makes it less harmful. We cannot deny the fact that fattening foods are hard to break away from, however, you can start by consuming them in moderation as opposed to every day.

Processed foods are some of the most fattening foods in the world because they are high in added sugar, salt and added fat. Overeating such food can lead to obesity, and internal harm.

Here are 10 highly fattening foods.

Soda
Diary
Ice cream
Pizza
Peanut butter
Chocolate
Fries
Processed foods
Red meat
White bread

All You Need To Know About Viral Hepatitis

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 19:08:00 +0000

Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory condition of the liver. It’s commonly caused by a viral infection, but there are other possible causes of hepatitis. These include autoimmune hepatitis and hepatitis that occurs as a secondary result of medications, drugs, toxins, and alcohol. Autoimmune hepatitis is a disease that occurs when your body makes antibodies against your liver tissue.

Your liver is located in the right upper area of your abdomen. It performs many critical functions that affect metabolism throughout your body, including: bile production, which is essential to digestion filtering of toxins from your body excretion of bilirubin (a product of broken-down red blood cells), cholesterol, hormones, and drugs breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins activation of enzymes, which are specialized proteins essential to body functions storage of glycogen (a form of sugar), minerals, and vitamins (A, D, E, and K) synthesis of blood proteins, such as albumin synthesis of clotting factors TYPES Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is caused by an infection with the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This type of hepatitis is most commonly transmitted by consuming food or water contaminated by feces from a person infected with hepatitis A. Hepatitis B Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen, containing the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Injection, drug use, having sex with an infected partner, or sharing razors with an infected person increase your risk of getting hepatitis B. It’s estimated by the CDC that 1.2 million people in the United States and 350 million people worldwide live with this chronic disease. Hepatitis C Hepatitis C comes from the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, typically through injection drug use and sexual contact. HCV is among the most common bloodborne viral infections in the United States. Approximately 2.7 to 3.9 million Americans are currently living with a chronic form of this infection.

Hepatitis D Also called delta hepatitis, hepatitis D is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). HDV is contracted through direct contact with infected blood. Hepatitis D is a rare form of hepatitis that only occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection. The hepatitis D virus can’t multiply without the presence of hepatitis B. It’s very uncommon in the United States.

Hepatitis E Hepatitis E is a waterborne disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Hepatitis E is mainly found in areas with poor sanitation and typically results from ingesting fecal matter that contaminates the water supply.

This disease is uncommon in the United States. However, cases of hepatitis E have been reported in the Middle East, Asia, Central America, and Africa, according to the CDC. Symptoms Many people with hepatitis experience either mild or no symptoms. When symptoms appear, they can do so from 15 to 180 days after infection. This applies to all types of hepatitis. Acute hepatitis The initial phase of hepatitis is called the acute phase. The symptoms are similar to mild flu, and may include: Jaundice hepatitis Jaundice is a symptom of hepatitis. diarrhea fatigue loss of appetite mild fever muscle or joint aches nausea slight abdominal pain vomiting weight loss jaundice.

The acute phase is not usually dangerous, but in certain people, it can result in acute liver failure and death. It may also progress to a chronic infection. This is most likely with HBV or HCV. As the disease progresses, chronic hepatitis can lead to progressive liver failure, resulting in jaundice, swelling of the lower extremities, confusion, and blood in the feces or vomit. The following may occur: dark urine hives itchy skin light-colored feces yellow skin, whites of the eyes, and tongue Patient outcomes after the acute phase depend on various factors, especially the type of hepatitis. Some people will not know they have chronic hepatitis until liver failure occurs.

Causes

The three most common types of viral hepatitis are all caused by viral infections.
Hepatitis A is caused by consuming food or water infected with the hepatitis A virus (HAV), often while traveling abroad. The virus can also be transmitted through anal-oral contact during sex or by injecting drugs.

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is spread through contact with infected blood, semen, and some other body fluids. It can be a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Hepatitis C mostly results from percutaneous infection, occurring when the HCV virus gets under the skin. It is usually spread through injected narcotics, needle-stick injuries, and a lack of infection control in healthcare settings. HCV cannot be caught from contact with feces, and sexual transmission is less common than in other types. Alcohol, medicines, obesity, and chemical exposure do not cause types A, B, or C, but they may aggravate inflammation and make symptoms worse.

7 Proven Health Benefits Of Eating Egg Daily

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:59:00 +0000

Eating 12 eggs per week is completely safe for heart health of patients of type-2 diabetes and for pre-diabetics, as opposed to what was earlier believed.

There is notion that eating too many eggs may result in an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in pre-diabetics and diabetics. But a new research has indicated that this particular advice may be unfounded. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has disproved the belief that eating 12 eggs per week for a year is harmful for heart health of patients of type-2 diabetes and also for pre-diabetics. The study was conducted over a period of 12 months, during which the participants were put on a high egg (up to 12 eggs per week) diet or a low-egg (less than two eggs per week) diet.

For the first three months, participants were asked to aim for a stable weight while adopting either a high-egg diet or a low-egg diet. At the end of the three months, no increase in the markers of cardiovascular diseases was observed. For the next three months, the participants aimed at weight loss while still being on either high or low-egg diets. For another six months, the researchers followed up with the participants who followed the same diets, without showing any sign of increase in cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, since both the groups had been put on a weight loss diet, they showed equal reduction in their weights, regardless of their level of egg consumption.

The researchers then concluded that pre-diabetic and patients suffering from type-2 diabetes need not hold back from eating eggs. Some of the suggestions that the researchers gave for the maintenance of a healthy weight through diet was to reduce the amount of saturated fat in it and instead include more mono and poly-saturated fat or good fat in the form of olive oil, avocado, etc. The cardiovascular risk factors that the researchers analysed in the participants included cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. The study researchers found no significant difference in these markers between the two groups.

The study goes on to prove that eggs may not have any effect on the levels of cholesterol in the blood, despite being high in dietary cholesterol.

Here are some amazing health benefits of eating eggs daily:

1. Rich source of protein: Eggs are great sources of high quality protein. The nutrient is one of the most important ones needed by the body. Protein-rich foods don't just boost muscle mass, but also keep your full for longer, eliminating the need to eat often.

2. Good for the eyes: Eating eggs daily may just give you healthy eyes. Eggs contain powerful antioxidants Lutein and Zeaxanthin, both of which are responsible for building up the retina.

3. Help in weight loss: As mentioned above, protein is one of the best macronutrients to load up on, if you want to stay full for longer. This is how eggs facilitate weight loss- by promoting satiety and making you binge-eat unhealthy stuff less often.

4. Nutritionally dense: Eggs aren't just rich in protein, but contain a whole load of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for the body. Egg whites are rich in vitamins B2, D, B6, B12 as well as selenium zinc, iron and copper. Egg yolks contain fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

5. Promote hair, nail, skin health: Eggs yolks contain B-complex vitamin biotin, which promotes the health of hair, nails and the skin.

6. Prevents kidney stones: Eggs yolks are also sources of several bioactive compounds, including one called lecithin. Lecithin prevents the buildup of kidney stones by promoting secretion of bile.

7. Improves muscle mass: Boxers and other athletes and sportspersons favour eggs because they are excellent sources of amino acids, which promote increase in muscle mass.

Medical Tests During Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:41:00 +0000

Positive Pregnancy Tests

Several tests may be conducted while a woman is pregnant.

Pregnancy tests

The woman's urine or blood may be tested.

Women may choose to perform a home pregnancy test. This is a urine test kit that can be purchased at a pharmacy or grocery store without a prescription. The test can indicate whether a woman is pregnant. This type of test is known as a qualitative test. It can only test for the presence of the pregnancy hormone, beta-hCG. If a doctor is considering prescribing a medication that might not be appropriate for consumption during pregnancy, one of these simple tests may be performed in the office to determine if a woman is pregnant or to make sure she is not pregnant. If the test is performed very early in a pregnancy, the hormone level may still be negative. Most current home pregnancy tests can show positive results immediately after the first missed menstrual period.

If clinically indicated, more sophisticated tests are called quantitative hCG levels can be performed. These actually determine the the hCG levels in the bloodstream. This type of testing is completed by drawing blood for testing at a hospital or doctor's office. These levels indicate approximately how far along a woman is in her pregnancy. If levels of hCG do not rise as she progresses through her pregnancy, it could indicate a problem pregnancy such as an ectopic pregnancy with low levels or twins with high levels.

Ultrasound

A doctor may use sound waves to examine the pelvic structures such as the uterus, ovaries, and the embryo or fetus.

Transabdominal ultrasound: A conductive gel is placed on the abdomen, and a hand-held wand which emits sound waves is moved in a systematic pattern in an effort to examine the internal structures. This test requires a full bladder so that the organs in question are lifted out of the pelvis as the bladder fills. The patient may be asked to drink two to three glasses of water starting an hour prior to the test. This method works best for more advanced pregnancies when the fetus is well developed. The physician may have a vaginal scan performed during the first trimester to make sure the pregnancy is within the uterus and to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.It is also possible to visualize the fetal heartbeat and movement, and, thus, rule out a miscarriage. The vaginal scan can also determine if there is more than one pregnancy within the uterus.During the remainder of the pregnancy, scans may be used to look for problems, assess the age and development of the fetus, check out its position within the uterus, and, between 16 and 20 weeks, determine the fetal sex. There is no risk to the woman or her developing fetus with ultrasound, and it is not uncomfortable. Ultrasound examinations aid doctors in establishing an accurate due date. The estimated date of delivery can now be predicted within two to four days if the initial ultrasound is performed early in pregnancy.

Endovaginal or transvaginal ultrasound: A long, thin, sound-wave wand is covered with a condom filled with conductive gel is placed inside the vagina. This type of ultrasound is usually performed early in pregnancy to confirm the intrauterine location of the fetus. This type of ultrasound also gives more detail regarding the structure of the woman's cervix and early embryonic anatomy.

Targeted Ultrasound Tests: A targeted or level II ultrasound exam provides a detailed assessment of fetal anatomy. It is recommended if there are concerns for fetal problems based on other tests or history. It is usually performed by a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist (perinatologist).

Nuchal Fold Translucency Tests: A non-invasive screening for genetic defects. A certified ultrasound technologist measures the fold at the back of the neck. Measurements are then used to calculate the risk factor for certain birth defects. It is usually done at 10 to 14 weeks gestation and offered with a blood test that also screens for birth defects.

Pregnancy Treatment

Normal pregnancy is not an illness and needs no treatment other than standard prenatal care. After the initial visit and during the first six months of pregnancy, a patient should see her doctor approximately once per month. Visits should be scheduled every two weeks during the seventh and eighth month and weekly during the ninth month. Electronic fetal monitoring, sequential ultrasound examinations, or admission to the hospital may also be required depending on circumstances of the individual patient.

Influenza vaccinations are recommended for women during pregnancy..

At this point, let’s consider things you can do to take care of yourself at home.

Pregnancy Self-Care at Home

Eat small, frequent meals throughout the pregnancy. Eat a common-sense balanced diet. Expect to gain between 25 to 35 pounds if you are of normal weight. Expect to gain less wait if you are obese (approximately 10 to 15 pounds).

Do not discontinue prescribed medications or initiate non-prescription medications without consulting a physician, but also consult with a doctor before taking any nonprescription medications.

Ginger capsules (available as an over-the-counter option) may help with nausea in pregnancy, sometimes called morning sickness. Talk with a doctor about other options.

Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or use illicit drugs.

Continue to exercise with normal routines unless the doctor advises otherwise. Stay hydrated during exercise sessions.

Sexual intercourse need not be prohibited during an uncomplicated pregnancy.

Pregnancy- What You Need To Know

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:41:00 +0000

Pregnancy occurs when an egg is fertilized by a sperm, grows inside a woman's uterus (womb), and develops into a baby. In humans, this process takes about 264 days from the date of fertilization of the egg, but the obstetrician will date the pregnancy from the first day of the last menstrual period (280 days 40 weeks).

The doctor will use certain terms when discussing a pregnancy. Some of the following definitions are useful:

• Intra-uterine pregnancy: A normal pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg is implanted in the uterus (womb) and an embryo grows.

• Embryo: The term used for the developing fertilized egg during the first 9 weeks of pregnancy.

• Fetus:The term used for the developing embryo after 9 weeks of gestation.

• Beta human chorionic gonadotropin (also called beta-hCG): This hormone is secreted by the placenta and can be measured to determine the presence and progression of the pregnancy. Urine or blood can be tested for its presence, and it is the hormone involved in the performance of a home pregnancy test. A positive result means a woman is pregnant; however, this test result can stay positive for several weeks after delivering a baby or following a spontaneous miscarriage.

• Trimester:The duration of an individual pregnancy is divided into three periods called trimesters (approximately three months in duration). Each trimester is characterized by specific events and developmental markers. For instance, the first trimester includes the differentiation of the different organ systems.

• Estimated date of delivery (EDD): The delivery date is estimated by counting forward 280 days from the first day of the woman's last period. It is also called the estimated date of confinement (EDC).

A pregnant woman and her doctor will monitor the pregnancy to exclude or prevent certain pregnancy conditions. The physician will also treat non pregnancy-related medical conditions in such a way as to promote the appropriate physical and neurological development of the fetus. Conditions of particular importance include:

• High-risk pregnancy: If a woman is considered prone to certain complications during pregnancy, she will be classified as high risk. Examples include pregnancies in women with diabetes and/or high blood pressure. Age-related complications can occur in women such as teenagers, women who are over the age of 35, or those who have been treated for infertility and have pregnancies resulting from the use of assisted reproductive technology.

• Ectopic pregnancy: This is a pregnancy in which the egg implants somewhere other than the uterus. This complication can be life-threatening. Ectopic pregnancy must be diagnosed early to avoid damage to the Fallopian tubes and to prevent serious maternal illness or death. It is also called tubal pregnancy (if the egg implants in the Fallopian tubes) or extra-uterine pregnancy.

• Cervical incompetence: This is a condition in which the cervix begins to open (widen) and/or efface (thin) without contractions before the pregnancy has reached term. Cervical incompetence can be a cause of mid-pregnancy miscarriage.

• Preterm Labor: In this condition, the uterus begins to contract before the baby has reached full-term.

• Preeclampsia/eclampsia: Preeclampsia is a systemic disease that can affect various organ systems. Vascular effects cause the blood pressure to rise in a pregnant woman. The condition may cause kidney damaged, generalized swelling, hyperactive reflexes, as well as deleterious abnormalities in blood chemistry and nerve reflexes. If left untreated, preeclampsia can proceed to eclampsia, a serious condition which may result in seizures, coma, and even death.

• Multiple Gestation (e.g. twins, triplets): Preterm births are twice as likely in twin pregnancies than in singleton pregnancies. The percentage of preterm birth is even greater for triplet pregnancies and higher order pregnancies. Preeclampsia is also seen three to five times more frequently with multiple gestation.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms of pregnancy include the following:

· Breast tenderness

· Nausea, vomiting, or both

· Missing a period or having an abnormal period

· Weight gain

· Breast enlargement, nipples darkening, or breast discharge

· Urinating more frequently than usual

· Fetal movement (may be perceived after 20 weeks for new mothers)

When to Seek Medical Care During Pregnancy

If a woman suspects that she may be pregnant or if she has a positive home pregnancy test, she should make an appointment with a health-care professional, which could be a doctor, an obstetrician (women's health specialist), a family physician, a midwife, or a nurse practitioner. Early prenatal care is essential to insure a favorable pregnancy outcome.

A woman who is pregnant should call her health-care professional if any of the following conditions develop:

· Labor or rupture of membranes (leaking fluid)
· Serious abdominal or vaginal pain
· Bright red vaginal bleeding
· Vomiting more frequently than three times per day or vomiting blood
· Severely elevated blood pressure (above 140/90)
· Sudden and rapid weight gain
· Severe headache or visual changes
· Severe leg or chest pain

Seek care in a hospital's emergency department if pregnant and experiencing any of these conditions:

· Fainting
· Vaginal bleeding through more than one pad per hour
· Having severe pain in the abdomen or shoulder or severe dizziness
· Passing pink, gray, or white material from the vagina that does not look like a blood clot (The woman who is pregnant should take the material to the hospital.)
· Having a bloody discharge or gush of fluid from the vagina during late pregnancy (this may indicate that the onset of labor is imminent).
· Seizure activity but without a history of epilepsy (This may indicate eclampsia, a complication of pregnancy).

· Having an injury, such as a fall, a blow to the stomach or pelvis, or a car accident
· Lower abdominal pain during late in pregnancy may indicate the onset of labor. Labor pains occur secondary to uterine contractions. A patient may attempt consumption of clear liquids or lying on her left side for a short time to determine if the contractions will resolve spontaneously. If the pain persists, her health care provider should be notified.

CONTINUE READING

Week 3

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:25:00 +0000

Sperm, meet egg. As we mentioned in week two, your partner’s sperm goes on a very difficult journey to fertilise your egg, but if it’s made it and you’ve conceived, this is the week when your baby will first start to form.

What is my baby doing at three weeks pregnant?

Within hours of being fertilized, your egg will start to travel from your fallopian tube to your uterus, and the fertilized egg (now medically referred to as the zygote) will divide into 16 identical cells.

Right now, your baby is a ball of around 100 cells about the size of a pin head. This is officially referred to as a blastocyst.

This journey can take up to six days, so implantation probably won’t happen until week four, but right now, your baby is a ball of around 100 cells about the size of a pin head. This is officially referred to as a blastocyst, (don’t worry it won’t be called this for long!) and the inside of the cell mass will become the embryo itself and the amniotic sac. The outer cell mass will become the placenta.

What is my body doing at three weeks pregnant?

From the outside, it probably won’t feel like much is happening right now, but if you’ve timed things right, that precious blastocyst is starting out on its journey and heading for your uterus. Just after the egg is released from the follicle it came from, it will be replaced by a yellow group of cells called the corpus luteum. This in turn produces enough of the pregnancy hormones progesterone and oestrogen, to support your future baby for the next ten weeks, until the placenta is ready to take over.

At this point, you still probably won’t get a positive pregnancy test, but in the next few weeks, once the blastocyst has made its way into the uterus, the cells of the developing placenta will make human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This surges in your first trimester and tells your ovaries to stop producing eggs and start making more progesterone and oestrogen.

Common Symptoms To Look Out For

• A heightened sense of smell: This is a side effect of oestrogen, so if you find like every little fragrance around you has been magnified, this could be an early stage that your body is getting ready for a baby. This may cause morning sickness in the next few weeks, so you might want to think about switching to unscented toiletries.

• Abdominal pressure: Don’t worry, a feeling of pressure or even the feeling of period cramps without the bleeding is nothing to panic about. You might be feeling the sensation of embryo implantation, an increased blood flow to this area or even the thickening of your uterus. If you’re worried, we recommend you book an appointment with your GP.

• Metallic taste: A common side effect of pregnancy is a metallic taste, caused by the changing hormones in your body. These side effects will usually settle in second semester, although this can feel a long way away right now, so try sipping lemonade and other citrus juices to try and help.

What should I be doing when I'm three weeks pregnant?

Up the protein

Your baby will need extra protein to help it grow, so try and make sure you get three servings of protein a day in these first few weeks.

Make sure you’re getting enough calcium

It might seem obvious, but if you’re not getting enough calcium in your diet when you’re pregnant, your baby will start taking it from your bones! Now’s the time to up the intake – foods like Greek or frozen yoghurt will help, yet if you’re still struggling, it might be worth looking for a calcium supplement.

CONTINUE READING

Week 4

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:24:00 +0000

Welcome to the beginning of the embryo stage. Your baby is still way too teeny to be seen or called a fetus yet, and is no longer than 1mm - about the size of a poppy seed. It’s now implantation time – the blastocyst will begin burrowing into your uterine lining, before splitting to form the placenta and the embryo.

What’s my baby doing at four weeks pregnant?

Your soon-to-be-baby has found its new home, where it will now grow for the next eight months. It’s completed the journey from the fallopian tube to your uterus and has inserted itself into the lining of your womb. Some women swear they can feel this happening, and report a cramping style sensation, whereas others say they had light spotting.

As soon as that precious ball of cells has settled into its new home, it will begin splitting in two. One half is now called the embryo and will become your baby, the other half will become the placenta, which will act as your growing baby’s lifeline for the next eight months.

This week, the amniotic sac will form around it and there are three distinctive layers of cells that will grow into different parts of your baby’s body.

Your embryo might be tiny, but it’s busy! This week, the amniotic sac will form around it and there are three distinctive layers of cells that will grow into different parts of your baby’s body. The endoderm is the inner layer – think digestive system, liver and lungs. The mesoderm is the middle layer, and will become your baby’s heart, sex organs, bones, kidneys and muscles. And the ectoderm is the outer layer – this will form your baby’s skin, hair and eyes.

What’s my body doing at four weeks pregnant?

If you took a blood pregnancy test around this week it would be positive (for a urine pregnancy test, it might be a few days too soon). That said, your body knows it is pregnant and is getting ready, big time! Some women will be completely oblivious to their growing baby at this stage, others will experience some early pregnancy symptoms such as mood swings, bloating and cramping.

As the blastocyst begin to attach to your womb, around 30% of women might experience some implantation bleeding. Midwife Lesley Gilchrist explains, ‘it’s extremely easy to mistake implantation bleeding for an early period as man of the pre-menstrual symptoms, such as cramps, bloating and mood changes are present with pregnancy too. The difference with a period and an implantation bleed is the length of the bleeding, the colour of the bloody loss and the heaviness of the blood flow. Implantation bleeding is not a sign that there is anything wrong with the pregnancy and there are no links to implantation bleeding and miscarriage.’

Within six to twelve days after fertilisation, your body starts releasing hCG – human chorionic gonadotropin. This is the pregnancy hormone that makes that extra line appear on your pregnancy test. Whilst we’re talking about pregnancy tests, it’s important to note, it can take over a week for your body to start producing enough pregnancy hormones to be detected. If you’ve missed a period and had a negative test, it’s worth doing another one in a week’s time.

What are the common symptoms to look out for at four weeks?

• Implantation bleeding: As we mentioned above, if you find you’re having a really light period a week before you’re due, or spotting slightly, this could be an implantation bleed. Only a small percentage of women experience an implantation bleed, so do not worry either way.

• Period-like symptoms: Your hormones are going mad, which can cause everything from bloating and cramping to mood swings.

Week 2

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:17:00 +0000

There’s still no baby yet, but around day 14 of your menstral cycle, which should be this week or early next, ovulation occurs. If you’re trying to conceive, knowing exactly when you’re ovulating is really important, so be sure to track yours using our ovulation calculator.

What is my body doing?

It sounds very complex, and in a way it is, but our menstrual cycles really are quite amazing. Thanks to hormone changes, your levels of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) rise and stimulate the production of follicles in your ovary.

These follicles are actually fluid filed sacs containing those all-important eggs – although usually only one becomes larger than the others and produces the egg. That follicle also begins to produce oestrogen which helps the lining of the womb become thicker to aid ‘implantation’ of the egg.

Hopefully, in the 24 hours after the egg is released, one of the nearly 250 million sperm your partner releases will manage to swim all the way from your vagina, through your cervix, and up to the fallopian tube, where it can penetrate the egg.

It might sound simple, but this is a ten-hour journey for the sperm. Only about 400 of them will even make it and only one can burrow through the eggs outer membrane.

What happens next?

Once his sperm makes it to your egg, the sperm’s nucleus merges with the eggs and they’ll combine in the following 10 to 30 hours. Believe it or not, this is when the sex of your baby is actually determined, as if the sperm is carrying a Y chromosome, you’ll just have conceived a boy and if it’s an X chromosome, it’ll be a girl.

What can I do to help my body conceive?

It might sound obvious, but this is one week where you really need to get into the rhythm of regular, baby making fun. Try to relax and not turn this time into another chore (and have a read of the best sex positions to try when you’re trying to conceive). Experts believe the best positions are those that allow you man’s sperm to get close to your cervix, and that having an orgasm helps too as the contractions draw in more sperm.

Common symptoms to look out for

• Your temperature will fall, then spike: Did you know that when you ovulate, your basal body temperature (BBT) will drop to its lowest point? It won’t, however, stay there for long and as soon as ovulation occurs, it will shoot up half a degree. So, although ovulation calculators give you a good idea, if you want to know exactly when you’re ovulating, buy a special thermometer and start tracking.

• Your discharge might change: If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while, you’ll have got used to monitoring your discharge and will know it’s consistency and colour will change over the month. As you head towards the day you’re ovulating, look out for thick, sticky and creamy discharge, which will increase in volume and start to look cloudy when the day arrives.

CONTINUE READING

Week 5

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:08:00 +0000

Your little embryo is now the size of an orange seed and your hCG hormone levels are now high enough to confirm that you’re expecting. Top of your list this week is getting to your GP to confirm and figure out your due date.

What’s my baby doing at five weeks pregnant?

The umbilical cord is forming and by the end of this week the neural tube will be as well – this is where your baby’s brain and spinal cord will form. Your baby’s heart is made up of two tiny channels and they’re already working. Once those tubes fuse together at some point this week, your baby will have a fully functioning heart.

Your little embryo is now the size of an orange seed and your hCG hormone levels are now high enough to confirm that you’re expecting.

Also during this week, several other organs will become to form, including the neural tube, the beginnings of your baby’s brain and spinal cord. Your baby will also double in size this week – from 2mm to 4mm. The placenta still hasn’t fully formed, so at the moment your little one is feeding from something called the ‘yolk sac.’

What’s my body doing at five weeks pregnant?

Your hormone levels are changing, you’ll have missed a period and you might even be experiencing some early pregnancy symptoms. Here’s what to expect:

Your hormones – mood swings

One word that is going to crop up a lot in the next eight months – hormones. This week, your pregnancy hormones are going to start kicking in – think of these as chemical signals that tell your body to get ready to start growing a baby. Among these are estrogen, which will keep the levels of progesterone and hCG up where they need to be. Progesterone maintains the function of the placenta and stimulates breast tissue to grow (which is why they are probably feeling a little tender right now). hCG supports the corpus luteum, this nourishes your growing baby until the placenta is ready in five weeks’ time.

Your due date and the emotional roller coaster it brings

If you’ve just done a pregnancy test a lot of things will be going through your mind. As well as extreme excitement, there can be fear, worry (can you afford a child? Is it the right time?) and anxiety about the fact you had a glass of wine last weekend.

Firstly, don’t worry about the wine – unknowingly drinking in very early pregnancy is not uncommon, and you have no reason to panic. It’s natural to feel daunted, and combined with the cocktail of pregnancy hormones racing around your body, it’s no wonder you’re feeling a little all over the place.

Early pregnancy symptoms

• Food cravings: It might be early days, but the food cravings might already be kicking in. Hormones play a part here, so try and relax and go with it as your body gets used to the hormone havoc! That said, indulge your cravings within reason and make sure you’re getting healthy substitutes for the foods you can’t stand.

• Tiredness:During the first trimester, most of your energy will go into growing your new arrival. Of course, you’re not complaining, but it’s normal to feel completely wiped out. The good news is that by the end of trimester one the placenta will be in place, but in the meantime, listen to your body and rest up!

• Feeling sick: Sure, you’ve heard all about morning sickness, but didn’t realize it would be THIS bad! That queasy feeling in your stomach won’t just hit you in the mornings, but can hang around all day, especially during these first twelve weeks. Try not to skip meals, as much as you don’t want to eat, instead, try grazing throughout the day. Read more expert advice on morning sickness here.

• Excessive saliva: Morning sickness and excessive saliva? You’ve hit the confusing jackpot of early pregnancy symptoms. Try chewing sugarless gum to help your mouth stay a little dryer (and stop you dribbling in meetings!) Experts aren’t really sure why this happens, but have put it down to those pregnancy hormones.

What should I be doing at five weeks pregnant?

• Now is the time to stop eating certain foods. These include unpasteurized foods, undercooked meat and eggs and some kinds of fish. These can cause food-borne illnesses that are damaging for your little one.

• If you’ve got a cat, it’s time to hand over the litter cleaning duties for the next eight months (not that you’ll be complaining!) This is dangerous as it can cause an infection called toxoplasmosis, which can harm your unborn baby.

• Don’t skip that evening floss! More than 90% of pregnant women suffer from gum problems during pregnancy thanks to the extra blood surging round your body. Find more advice on how to look after your teeth during pregnancy here.

Week 6

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:06:00 +0000

Your baby is now 4-7mm long and will develop his or her face this week! Top of your list this week should be booking your first antenatal appointment with your GP.

What’s my baby doing at six weeks pregnant?

You might be feeling the full effects of those early pregnancy symptoms (hello, morning sickness!), but the good news is, the folds of tissue are developing that will soon become your baby’s face. At the moment, there’s tiny openings that will turn into a mouth and nostrils in a few weeks. There’s also dark patches that will eventually turn into eyes, and small folds on the side of your baby’s head that will turn into ears.

At the moment, there’s tiny openings that will turn into a mouth and nostrils in a few weeks.

Although your baby’s ‘limbs’ are just buds that will develop into arms and legs, there are tiny signs of hat will grow into fingers and toes. The spinal cord is also developing rapidly, but at the moment, it still resembles a tail. Your baby’s heart will also start to beat around 110 times a minute and can actually be seen on an ultrasound from this week.

What is my body doing at six weeks pregnant?

• Your kidneys are becoming more effective of ridding your body of waste: Although you probably won’t look any different from the outside, you might be feeling queezy, bloated or craving foods you’ve never even wanted before. Other early signs? You’ll probably need to pee every five minutes, especially when you’re trying to sleep. Luckily, this pressure will be relieved once your uterus rises at the beginning of trimester two. Although your constant need to wee might be annoying, do not stop drinking – your body needs it. Instead, make sure you lean forward on the toilet to ensure you’ve emptied your bladder each time.

• Your stomach muscles relax: During week six, the muscle at the top of your stomach relaxes to make room for your growing bump. Before your new arrival, this would prevent digestive juices from backing up, so the bad news is, the chances of getting through the next eight months’ heartburn free are nearly zero. The good news is, you can minimise the symptoms by slowing down when you eat, so take your time!

• Your uterus expands: Your uterus is getting bigger (no surprise there), but did you know that your womb will actually increase up to 1000 times its normal size during your pregnancy, so this is still very early days.

• The amount of blood in your body increases: This has probably already happened, and isn’t something you’re likely to notice. Why is this happening? During these first few weeks of pregnancy, you’ll have an increased blood supply to your uterus (another reason why you need to wee so much!), breasts, kidneys and skin.

Common symptoms to look out for

• Breast Tenderness: You’re not imagining it; your boobs are getting bigger and your nipples are pointing out more. They might also be feeling really tender as your body gets ready to breastfeed.

• Fatigue:Your body is growing a baby, so it’s bound to be exhausted! Listen to it and feel free to cancel those dinner arrangements and get an earl night. That said, as much as you might not feel like it, try and fit some exercise in – perhaps a gentle walk. The endorphins will help you feel better and it might help you get to sleep.

• Nausea and Vomiting: Whether you’re feeling a little sick at the sight of your partner’s scrambled eggs, or you’re throwing up your breakfast, lunch and dinner, relax and remember, this is one of the most common signs of pregnancy. If you are being sick, snacking is key.

• Bloating: This one is down to the progesterone that’s flying round your body right now. Remember to eat lots of fibre and drink plenty of water to avoid getting constipated, which will only make that horrible bloated feeling worse.

What should I be doing when I’m six weeks pregnant?

• Book an appointment with your doctor: As we mentioned above, now is the time to book that first appointment with your GP or a local midwife so you can discuss your antenatal care options. Your first of many prenatal check-ups, your doctor will give you a thorough check, including a pelvic exam, a smear test (unless you’ve had one recently) and a blood test. You might be asked to give a urine sample (which you probably won’t have a problem providing) and this will be tested for glucose, protein, red and white blood cells and bacteria. Another thing to expect is a lot of questions – so do your homework. Not only will they ask about your own health history, but also ask your mother if she had any difficulties or complications when giving birth. Remember to make a list of questions for your doctor and ask them, no matter how silly they may sound.

• Stop eating certain seafood: Avoid shark, swordfish and king mackerel, but don’t worry, you don’t need to cut out fish all together. According to pregnancy guidelines, you can still eat 12oz of well-cooked shellfish, canned tuna, salmon or cod a week.

• Opt for highlights, not a whole head of hair dye: During these first few months, it’s safest to avoid the chemicals involved in hair dye. Highlights don’t touch the scalp, so that’s the safest way to go. Ask your GP if you have any worries or questions.

CONTINUE READING

Week 7

noreply@blogger.com (Oliver Smile) — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 23:58:00 +0000

This week, you’ll start to get that pregnancy glow (get ready for the compliments). Your baby now measures about 1cm (or half an inch), which is about the size of a blueberry, and will start making his or her first movements this week.

What’s my baby doing at seven weeks pregnant?

Let’s take a look at your little blueberry-sized-babe at week seven. He or she now has a more defined face, with a mouth, nostrils, ears and eyes, and brain cells are generated at the rate of 100 per minute. The mouth, tongue, tooth buds will also develop this week.

This weeks, your baby’s arms and legs will start developing, dividing into hand, arm and shoulder segments and leg, knee and foot segments. Yet right now, they’ll still look like paddles more than hands and feet, as fingers and toes will be webbed.

Your baby now has kidneys and ready to start work, as pretty soon your baby will start producing urine.

Your baby is also starting to make little jerky movements this week. You won’t be able to feel a thing, but an ultrasound would pick it up. Speaking of which, check out this guide to ultrasounds.

What is my body doing at seven weeks pregnant?

Your pregnancy bump won’t be showing yet, because your womb still hasn’t risen (it won’t do until the end of the first trimester), but that doesn’t mean you’re not feeling the full effects of being pregnant. From the nausea to the swollen breasts, your body is getting ready to grow your little one!

• Swollen Breasts: Some women have gone up a full cup size by seven weeks pregnant, which would be great if they weren’t so uncomfortably tender and achy. Of course you can thank those pesky pregnancy hormones for that. Ft is also building up in your breasts and more blood flowing towards them. You might also notice the areola (the dark area around the nipple) has got darker and larger and has little goose-bump-like spots. These are sweat glands that supply lubrication – all important changes for when you start breastfeeding.

• An extra glowy complexion: You might notice your skin is looking better than ever, and your hair is more lustrous than that time you spent a fortune on Moroccan oil. These are both down to the extra oestrogen you’re producing right now.

Common symptoms to look out for:

• Frequent urination: You’re still needing to pee every five minutes thanks to that pregnancy hormone hCG increasing the blood flow to your pelvic area. Remember to keep drinking despite those constant toilet trips – your body and your baby needs it!

• Fatigue:Growing a baby is an exhausting task, especially as your body is still making the placenta, so listen to your body and rest up. One way to keep your energy up is to keep snacking throughout the day – mini-meals will keep your bloody sugar up.

• Breast tenderness and changes: Despite looking bigger than they’ve ever done, your boobs might not look their best! Noticing loads of blue veins? These will transport all the nutrients and fluids to your baby when you begin breastfeeding. For now, invest in a good stretch mark cream and maternity bra to minimize sagging.

• Excessive saliva: Feel like you’re dribbling? Just when you thought the morning sickness was bad enough, pair it with excessive saliva and you’re in for a treat. Another one that will disappear at the end of your first trimester, but for now, try chewing sugarless gum.

• Food cravings: If you find you’ve narrowed down your menu of meals thanks to those pregnancy food aversions, try not to worry. Eating the same healthy meal everyday will still give your growing babe all the nutrients it needs. What’s more, if you find your cravings are driving you mad, give in to them once in a while.

• Heartburn:Another totally normal, but totally unpleasant side effect. Avoid spicy or fatty foods, caffeinated drinks as these will make it worse, also try drinking either before or after you eat.

• Gaining a few pounds: You might not look like you’re carrying a baby, but you might have gained a few pounds already. This is totally normal – most women will gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy.

• Cramping:This is normal during the first trimester, but if it occurs with shoulder or neck pain, or you have any unusual discharge, contact your GP.

What should I be doing when I’m seven weeks pregnant?

One thing you must look out for is bleeding, whether this is in the form of light dotting or spotting, or lots of blood. Bleeding in the first trimester is very common (it affects around one in three women) and doesn’t always indicate miscarriage.

If you do notice bleeding, you must see your doctor right away. Your GP or midwife will be able to examine you both vaginally and probably via an ultrasound. In most cases the bleeding goes away and the doctor is unable to explain it, unless it’s caused by infection.

Oliversmile's Blog

20 BUSINESSES YOU CAN START IN NIGERIA WITH LOW CAPITAL

*1. Bedsheet/Beddings Production.*

*2. Shirt Production:*

*3. Boxers:*

*4. E-Payments and POS Business:*

*5. Mobile and Electronic Accessories:*

*6. Popcorn:*

*7. Branding – Sales and Customizing:*

*8. Snail Farming:*

*9. Fairly Used Goods:*

*10. Cleaning Services:*

*11. Home Cooking and Delivery:*

*12. Digital Marketing:*

*13. Cakes and Confectionery:*

*14. Aso-Oke Beading and Stoning:*

*15. Bead Making:*

*16. Home Service Barber:*

*17. Tutorial Classes:*

*18. Internet Services:*

*19. Production Of Zobo, Smoothies, cocktail, small chops, cupcakes and chinchin!*

*20. Re-Invest Your seed Capital in an existing business:*

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CONTINUE READING

Week 3

What is my baby doing at three weeks pregnant?

What is my body doing at three weeks pregnant?

Common Symptoms To Look Out For

What should I be doing when I'm three weeks pregnant?

Up the protein

Make sure you’re getting enough calcium

CONTINUE READING

Week 4

1. Bedsheet/Beddings Production.

2. Shirt Production:

3. Boxers:

4. E-Payments and POS Business:

5. Mobile and Electronic Accessories:

6. Popcorn:

7. Branding – Sales and Customizing:

8. Snail Farming:

9. Fairly Used Goods:

10. Cleaning Services:

11. Home Cooking and Delivery:

12. Digital Marketing:

13. Cakes and Confectionery:

14. Aso-Oke Beading and Stoning:

15. Bead Making:

16. Home Service Barber:

17. Tutorial Classes:

18. Internet Services:

19. Production Of Zobo, Smoothies, cocktail, small chops, cupcakes and chinchin!

20. Re-Invest Your seed Capital in an existing business: