We understand how overwhelming it is to stay updated with the latest healthy eating trends or supplements to take from brands like Designs for Health at Supplement First. Fortunately, staying healthy is actually fairly easy, and it all boils down to consistently choosing and consuming healthy foods and drinks. Let’s take a closer look at what health and nutrition tips you should follow (without any diet fads!).

1. Increase Your Fiber Intake

Fiber is helpful in maintaining digestive health. It also helps us feel satiated for longer, which is beneficial for those who want to lose weight. Moreover, fiber helps our bodies control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

You can take fiber supplements from brands like Pure Encapsulations at Supplement First, or you can choose to add more of it on your diet. Fiber can come from celery, carrots, beans, lentils, whole fruits, and whole-grain cereals.

2. Add Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D work hand in hand to help with bone health. While we can get vitamin D from the sun, some people might not get enough of the nutrient. Not many foods naturally contain vitamin D, but you can take food and beverages fortified with it. Moreover, you can increase your intake of salmon, sardines, green leafy veggies, and soy products, which contain both calcium and vitamin D.

3. Consume More Potassium

Potassium is another healthy and essential nutrient that helps the heart, kidneys, nerves, and muscles function well. Without it, you can end up with a higher risk of health issues like high blood pressure, kidney stones, and depleted calcium levels.

You can get more potassium by increasing your intake of bananas, orange juice, prune juice, pomegranate juice, beet greens, lima beans, Swiss chard, and the like.

4. Cut Back On Your Sugar

We all know how bad sugar is but we know it’s also difficult to completely cut off! To help limit your sugar without completely restricting yourself, here are a few tips to follow:

–          Drink water over sugary drinks. If you want more flavor in your water, you can add berries, lemon, cucumber, or lime.

–          Add fruits to your yogurt or cereals for sweetness instead of sugar.

–          Avoid stocking up on sugary snacks or drinks. Replace them with fruits and water if you feel hungry and need snacks.

–          When you are getting coffee, avoid flavored syrups and whipped cream. Opt for low-fat or fat-free milk instead. You can even opt for plain black coffee.

–          Always check the nutrition labels and choose foods that have little to no added sugars.

5. Replace Saturated Fat

 It’s crucial to replace saturated fat with healthier unsaturated fats for the heart. You can do this by doing quick ingredient replacements like:

o   Avocadoes or low-fat yogurt over whole milk

o   Nuts or seeds over cheese

o   Beans and seafood over meats

o   Low-fat or fat-free dairy beverages

Wrapping It Up

Let this be a beginning to reaching optimum health goals. Good luck!

Taking care of your dental health can seem like a chore, but things can get even more complicated when you have braces. Needless to say, braces come in the way, and it is difficult to clean them. On the other hand, brushing and flossing become even more important when you have braces since food will likely become stuck and linger in your mouth for longer. 

Learning to floss with braces properly can take some time, but it is not impossible. A step-by-step guide will help you understand the basics, and with practice, you will be able to floss without an issue. Brushing is not enough since toothbrushes cannot clean between your teeth. To assess the condition of your dental health, speak to a Tukwila dentist today. 

Tips to floss with your braces on 

• Use dental floss. 

Most people are aware of the common type of floss that looks like a thread. Previously, this thread was made of silk, but it is now made of nylon. It is the oldest flossing form and has been used for the past 200 years. Even though the waxed version is a bit thicker, people with braces are recommended to use those because the unwaxed ones are more likely to get caught on the braces. It is recommended that parents help their children floss until they can learn. 

• Use the right tool. 

Before you even begin to learn how to floss, you must ensure you have the right tool with you. Remember that what is right for your spouse, mother, or sibling may not be the right choice for you, especially since you have braces. Using a thread can be difficult and challenging for even the most skilled flosser. 

Rather, it is recommended to use an orthodontic floss threader that can easily reach in between your teeth and reach your gum line. 

• Try the water flosser. 

If you have never tried the water flosser before, you may want to consider it now that you have braces. The invention of the water flosser has made flossing extremely easy. A stream of water comes out of the device and removes plaque between your teeth. You just need to hold the flosser close to your teeth, and your work is done. You can also mix some mouthwash into the water in your water flosser to improve anti-bacterial protection. 

Life with braces can come with exciting challenges, but the end result is worth it. A dentist can help you achieve the teeth you want. Visit a clinic today. 

Introducing a new feeding routine to a breastfed baby can be a challenging and overwhelming experience for both the baby and the mother. However, when faced with situations such as low milk supply, return to work, or concerns about food sensitivities, parents may choose to introduce goat milk formula to their baby’s diet. As a parent, it’s essential to ensure that your baby’s nutritional needs are met while providing a comfortable and smooth transition to the new feeding routine. In this guide, we will provide you with tips for introducing goat milk formula to a breastfed baby.

By following these tips, you can help make the introduction of goat milk formula to your breastfed baby a positive experience for everyone involved.

1. Start with a small amount

It’s important to introduce goat milk formula gradually to a breastfed baby. Start by offering a small amount of the formula, such as 1-2 ounces, mixed with breast milk. This will allow your baby to adjust to the new taste and texture of the formula without overwhelming their digestive system.

2. Mix it well

When preparing the formula, be sure to mix it well to avoid any clumps or inconsistencies. Follow the instructions on the formula package carefully, and use a whisk or blender if necessary to ensure that the formula is thoroughly mixed. This will help to prevent your baby from experiencing any digestive issues or discomfort.

3. Observe allergic reactions

Like any new food, there is a risk of an allergic reaction when introducing goat milk formula to a breastfed baby. Watch for any signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop giving the formula immediately and consult with your pediatrician.

4. Offer it at room temperature

Make sure that the goat milk formula is at room temperature before offering it to your baby. This will help to prevent any discomfort or digestive issues that can occur when cold formula is introduced to a baby’s sensitive digestive system. To warm the formula, you can place the bottle in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer. Avoid microwaving the formula, as this can create hot spots that can burn your baby’s mouth.

5. Use a suitable nipple

Nipples come in different sizes and flow rates, and it’s important to select one that matches your baby’s needs. A nipple that is too small or too large can make it difficult for your baby to feed, while a nipple that is too fast or too slow can cause frustration or feeding issues.

6. Offer it during a feeding session

It’s a good idea to offer goat milk formula during a regular feeding session when the baby is hungry and receptive to new tastes. Start with a small amount of formula at the beginning or end of a feeding session and gradually increase the amount as the baby becomes more comfortable with the taste.

7. Be patient

Introducing goat milk formula to a breastfed baby can take time and patience. Your baby may need several attempts before they accept the new taste and texture of the formula. It’s important to be patient and persistent, and offer the formula in small amounts, and give your baby time to adjust to the new taste.

8. Continue breastfeeding

It’s important to continue breastfeeding alongside offering the formula when introducing goat milk formula to a breastfed baby. Breast milk provides important nutrients and antibodies that can help to support your baby’s immune system and overall health. By continuing to breastfeed, you can also help to maintain your milk supply and the baby’s familiarity with breastfeeding.

In conclusion, it’s important to ensure that the introduction of goat milk formula to a breastfed baby is a comfortable and smooth transition for both the baby and the mother. Ensure that you gradually introduce goat milk formula to your baby’s diet, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing it. You can also consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for guidance and support during the transition. All in all, be patient and allow your baby time to adjust to the new feeding routine.