The optimal running shoe cannot be determined by rigid criteria. Everyone’s ideal running shoes differ according to their needs. However, people frequently judge their shoes using more negative than favorable criteria. Or, to put it in another way, they discuss what their shoes don’t do rather than what they do. In this article, let’s discuss a few tips to consider while buying shoes and some of the best running shoes to go for: How to select the perfect running shoes? The fundamental parameter based on which you should choose your perfect running shoe is comfort. But why settle for less when you deserve to have more? Besides, your convenience will be determined by several other factors, which you must look for in your ideal running shoes. Primarily, you should focus on the following five aspects: The running surface Not all shoes are suitable for all surfaces. Some running shoes are ideal for roads, some for gravels and trail paths, and others exclusively for the gym. For roads, you need lightweight and flexible shoes; for gravels and rocks, you require shoes with more prominent lugs; for gyms, you need shoes with more surface contact. Thus, a lot depends on what kind of runner you are. Cushioning Cushioning pertains to how much impact your shoes can absorb. It has two aspects: The firmness and density of the foam in the midsole and the stack height, i.e., how thick the shoe material is between the ground and your feet. Your cushioning preferences may vary from no cushioning at the midsole to get the full impact from each step to extra-cushioning for little to no impact at all. Drop Drop is the extent to which the cushioning of your forefoot differs from that of your heel area. Most running shoes have a drop of 8 to 12 millimeters.

“Gut health is the key to overall health.” After all, almost two-thirds of our body’s immune system resides in the gut. Whatever a person consumes forms the foundation of their overall health. And even a slight problem with gut health can cause many issues, ranging from skin conditions to poor mental health. However, despite its importance, people often find it embarrassing to openly talk to a gastroenterologist about their digestive health. It is essential, though, for everyone to understand that it is completely normal to ask questions and share things about their health with the doctor. Here are a few common questions about digestive health that people should not feel uncomfortable asking their gastroenterologist: 1. Why do feces have an unusual color? When it comes to digestive health, a lot of people feel uncomfortable talking about their feces and bowel movements. However, not discussing it with the doctor may do more harm than good. This is because if a person has noticed an unusual change in their feces, like its color, it may be a symptom of an underlying condition. Sometimes, the color of feces can also change based on the consumption of certain colored foods, although that is not always the case. A change in the color of feces could be a side effect of irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, or some infection. And if that is the case, the doctor must know about it. 2. When is the need for an endoscopy? People often get uncomfortable talking about endoscopy because they fear it and might not be ready for it. However, if a person has persistent symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, bleeding, and abdominal pain, they might need an endoscopy. Endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the digestive tract to examine it.

With heightened stress and emotional strain becoming increasingly common today, the role of emotional support animals in promoting mental well-being has gained significant recognition. These remarkable companions offer many benefits, including offering comfort and support to those facing emotional and psychological challenges or dealing with a disorder. If one is planning to get an emotional support animal, here are a few benefits and things to consider before making a decision: What are emotional support animals? ESAs differ slightly from pets in that they are prescribed by mental health professionals to provide comfort and assistance to those with diagnosed mental health conditions. ESAs have legal recognition and protections under certain laws and are chosen for their ability to offer emotional support, while pets are primarily chosen as companions based on personal preferences. Some popular ESAs are alpacas, dogs, cats, birds, llamas, sheep, goats, horses, rabbits, chickens, and pigs, with dogs being the most common ESAs. To find an emotional support animal, one can start by consulting with a mental health professional or therapist. They can offer guidance regarding the process and determine if one qualifies for getting an ESA. ESAs versus service animals ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. They are also protected under the Fair Housing Act. Service animals, on the other hand, are trained to perform specific tasks or work directly related to a person’s disability. They have broader legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Does a pet qualify as an ESA? While many pets offer emotional support to their owners, they may automatically qualify as ESAs without the proper documentation and recommendation from a mental health professional. Any breed or animal can be considered an ESA if it meets the legal guidelines. Benefits of having ESAs Introducing purpose and responsibility: An emotional support animal can be beneficial for those struggling with mental health.

In the journey of marriage, even the strongest bonds encounter challenging terrain. The subtle transition from occasional rough patches to a potentially loveless or unhappy marriage can be an alarming realization for couples. With divorce rates hovering around 50%, it becomes paramount for couples to recognize the subtle signs that their union might be facing trouble. Marriages, while inherently beautiful, can falter, catching partners unaware until the signs become too evident to ignore. Communication breakdown Effective communication is the bedrock of a healthy marriage. When spouses struggle to communicate openly and authentically, a rift may form. This breakdown can manifest as avoidance, stonewalling, or heated arguments, signaling a need for improved communication strategies. Couples may benefit from learning active listening techniques and finding a safe space for open dialogue. Constant criticism Continuous criticism creates an environment of negativity. When one partner feels consistently attacked or belittled, the emotional safety within the marriage erodes. Recognizing this pattern early on allows cultivating a more supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Couples can explore constructive feedback mechanisms and emphasize positive reinforcement. Emotional disconnection Emotional distance can manifest even when couples share physical space. Partners may feel like strangers, and the absence of emotional connection undermines the core of marital resilience. Rebuilding emotional bridges requires vulnerability and open dialogue. Couples can engage in activities that promote emotional connection and seek professional guidance when needed. Escaping to distractions Excessive engagement with external distractions can be a coping mechanism to avoid facing marital issues. Whether through work, social media, or hobbies, this escape might signal a reluctance to address underlying concerns within the marriage. Encouraging open conversations about feelings of avoidance can help unveil deeper issues. Unresolved conflicts Persistent conflicts, when left unaddressed, can morph into deep-seated resentments. Revisiting the same issues without resolution creates a cycle of frustration.

Potassium is an essential nutrient that allows your body to function optimally. A meal plan rich in potassium allows proper nerve function and regulates your heartbeat. However, certain conditions such as kidney diseases and consuming food rich in potassium excessively may increase its levels in your bloodstream leading to a condition known as hyperkalemia . Let’s look at foods you should limit to keep your potassium within normal levels. Bananas The first food that comes to mind when people think of potassium sources is bananas. One medium-sized banana contains almost 422 mg of potassium. Though it would take a lot of bananas to cause an overdose of potassium, if you are also eating other foods rich in potassium, it will lead to excessive potassium levels in your blood, which in turn, will trigger hyperkalemia . Tomato Sauce and Paste Raw tomatoes contain a decent amount of potassium. One medium tomato has about 292 mg of potassium. Concentrated forms of tomatoes, such as sauces, salsa, paste, puree, etc., contain even higher amounts of potassium. For instance, a small cup of tomato sauce contains almost 728 mg potassium. So, it is advised to skip tomato sauce and opt for alternatives such as basil or roasted red peppers. Milk If you have been advised a low potassium meal plan, you must avoid milk or at least its consumption needs to be reduced. A cup of whole milk contains around 350 mg of potassium. The lower the amount of fat in milk, the higher the potassium content. While you may have a small serving of milk daily, it should not exceed 300 ml. It means avoiding milk and dairy products such as buttermilk, yogurt, milk-based sweets, ice creams, and other desserts. Oranges and Orange Juice Oranges have a very high potassium content and are best avoided if diagnosed with hyperkalemia .

A skincare routine is vital for keeping the skin healthy and young for a long time. This also helps you avoid skin diseases and other problems. Skin problems brought on by neglecting the skin are wrinkles and dullness, which are common signs of aging. While aging is inevitable, premature aging can be prevented with a proper skincare regimen and by avoiding common mistakes. So, here are some lapses that could be responsible for premature aging: Skipping sunscreen Applying sunscreen on freshly cleaned and moisturized skin every day is one of the crucial steps in a good skincare routine. Some people ignore this step which can have adverse effects on the skin and cause skin diseases. Sunscreen protects the skin from toxic rays of the sun and other harmful agents in the environment. Several studies have proven that about 70% of premature aging symptoms are brought on by sun exposure, making it essential to protect the skin. Forgetting the neck This is probably one of the most common mistakes that people tend to make while following their skincare regime. They tend to apply all the products only to their face and forget all about the neck. The neck is as visible as the entire face, and the skin there is delicate and needs care too. If the skincare products are not used on the neck, the skin there can develop wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging, making your skin look older than it is. So, it is important to include the neck in all the skincare steps you follow. Not getting adequate nutrition Skin reflects what you eat, and supple and radiant skin is an outcome of healthy meals consumed at the right time. Apart from an effective skincare regime, it is important to make better food choices and adopt healthy eating habits to meet daily nutritional requirements.

Shoppers are shifting from regular cars to leasing and buying SUVs for roomy passenger cabins, additional cargo space, and higher ride heights. Most new-age SUVs have abandoned their utilitarian shapes, metamorphosing into new-age vehicles with forms that match their functions. While some have voluntarily accepted their boxiness, many have opted for elegant lines and sculpted physiques, so there is an SUV for everyone. This guide will discuss some popular SUVs to watch out for. 2022 Honda CR-V It is one of the top SUVs on the market today and is a class leader in many respects, especially in fuel economy and passenger and cargo space. Honda CR-V also assures a comfortable ride and energetic acceleration with good gas mileage. Its interior feels upscale, and both rows appear comfortable and spacious. The CR-V’s cargo hold is one of the largest in the compact SUV range. Furthermore, its exemplary amalgam of value and quality makes it the best SUV for the money. However, the only downside is its short list of standard features in the base trim. Also, its infotainment controls are not the best. 2022 Hyundai Tucson The next best compact SUV to love is the Hyundai Tucson, thanks to its upscale and spacious interior, handling and ride, several driver assistance features, and intuitive infotainment system. The beautiful-looking car impresses riders with its upmarket cabin materials, roomy five-seater interior, and giant cargo space. It feels comfortable and agile to drive daily and is engineered with an economical, zippy four-cylinder engine. In addition, its 100,000-mile or 10-year powertrain warranty makes it a preferred alternative. Overall, it is a vehicle that is a true blend of class, value, and quality. It is an excellent compact pick for families, courtesy of its family-friendly features and a beautiful mix of passenger and cargo safety attributes.

Water is essential for the overall well-being of humans as it constitutes 75% of the body. It is crucial in managing all bodily functions. Staying hydrated also protects us from many harmful diseases. Therefore, drinking ample water daily is necessary to keep a person hydrated and healthy. However, do you know that the time one drinks water may impact the body’s overall functioning? Read on to learn about the best times of the day to drink water. Upon waking up in the morning When a person wakes up in the morning, the first essential thing to do is to hydrate the body. The body undergoes a long fasting period as we sleep, and a person is dehydrated for a longer hours of time. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning is an easier way to maintain proper hydration habits and boost fluid intake throughout the day. Though there is not much evidence that drinking water when one wakes up in the morning is beneficial, some people believe it works for them. Despite these uncertainties, one thing everyone admits to is that it helps maintain a healthy hydration routine. Increasing the hydration level helps improve energy, improve one’s mood, and boost brain function. Before having a meal It is best to drink ample water 30 minutes before a meal. It will create a feeling of fullness and prevents overeating. Never drink water immediately before, after, or during a meal because this will dilute the digestive juice and impair digestion. It is constructive advice for older adults , as it helps to reduce the intake of more calories during the meal. Consuming water before meals is also an efficient way to promote hydration in the body. So, keeping a  1l filter water bottle  handy will help a person drink the usually recommended quantity of water.

A radiologist is someone who helps diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses identified through the process of imaging procedures or also called radiology. These procedures include tests like X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and even ultrasound. It is important to ask as many questions as possible when getting a diagnosis related to health and not feel lost through the process. Here are some common questions you can ask your radiologist when you see him next. Why do you need the test? If you are unsure why you need certain tests, asking your radiologist can provide clarity. This is a fundamental question to ask. The doctor knows best, but knowing the reason for these procedures is important to understand your illness better. Knowing why this test is needed is important to know how the process works. Speak to the radiologist to know how this test can help diagnose the issue and what the possible outcomes are. Are there any side effects of the test? Imaging tests are generally considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to ask about potential risks or side effects before undergoing them. With so much technology involved, it’s possible that important details may be overlooked, so it’s best to consult with a radiologist who can provide a comprehensive understanding. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have to ensure a thorough assessment. What is the procedure for the test? Getting these tests done can create anxiety in some people, which is very natural. So asking questions related to the procedure and process of the testing may help with any stressors. A radiologist will be able to address any concerns related to how you need to prepare for the tests (if there is any prep required, that is), how long the procedure can take, or what all are the steps involved during the whole process.

It’s important to stay hydrated for good health, but drinking too much water can also cause problems. Overhydration occurs when there’s excess water in the body, leading to complications with various organs. It is crucial to know the importance of drinking enough water and the issues that can arise when one drinks too much water. Read on to learn about health issues one may experience as a result of overhydration. Hyponatremia This is a condition in which the sodium levels in the body are below the normal amount. The normal levels are 135 to 145 milliequivalents/liter, but the levels drop below 135 in hyponatremia. One of the reasons why this condition is caused is due to too much water or fluids in the body. This excess hydration can “water down” the sodium in the body leading to complications. Some of the symptoms of this illness can include vomiting, nausea, low blood pressure, loss of energy, seizures or coma, muscle weakness or twitching, cramps, restlessness, bad temper, headache, fatigue, and confusion. Water poisoning This may sound unusual, but it is something that happens when one drinks water in excess. One can experience water poisoning, intoxication, or even damage to brain function due to excess water in the body. When there is excess water in the body, the cells start to absorb this water. When these cells absorb the water, they swell up. Since a human body is made up of cells, this swelling can occur anywhere in the body, including the brain. As these brain cells swell up, they pressure the organ and disrupt brain function. One can experience symptoms like headaches, drowsiness, and even confusion. This pressure from the cells can also cause other complications like hypertension or high blood pressure and low heart rate or bradycardia. Strain on kidneys Proper hydration is essential when it comes to healthy kidneys.

A low blood sugar level is a condition referred to as hypoglycemia. This condition is recognized when the blood sugar level drops below 70 mg/dl, and steps are needed to bring it back up to a healthy number. This type of blood sugar drop is especially common in type 1 diabetes. Some symptoms can help diagnose low blood sugar levels that impact health, and here are some observations to keep in mind. 1. Extreme hunger This is one of the typical signs and symptoms of a low blood sugar level. This is the body’s way of communicating that it needs food to raise its glucose levels. Some people may eat sugary substances to get that spike, but other foods can also help raise the glucose level. Carbohydrates help solve this issue; however, eating the right amount of carbohydrates to help in this situation is essential and can vary from person to person. So, always consult a nutritionist to know how to manage glucose levels when this symptom occurs. 2. Restless nights Nocturnal hypoglycemia is the term used to describe low blood sugar levels at night in a diabetic person. In this, the individual may experience signs and symptoms like night sweats, unrest, and confusion once awake, as well as episodes of waking up suddenly. Some experts suggest that taking a small snack before bed can help with these symptoms, but always consult a doctor to know what amount is recommended, as a sudden spike in glucose may be too much. 3. Tremors Tremors and shakes are other signs and symptoms that should be observed. Research suggests that low blood sugar levels activate the autonomic nervous system. 4. Anxiety According to research, when glucose levels go too low in the body, a hormone called epinephrine is released. This is also called adrenaline.

Earphones make it easy to enjoy music, movies, podcasts, and more privately when out in public. They can be used with your smartphone, tablet, and personal computer. You are instantly met with many options, features, and brands when shopping for earphones. This can make the process of choosing very tedious. To make this easier, here we have listed five things you need to keep in mind when shopping for earphones. Keep the form factor in mind Before you get down to bagging deals and discounts on various popular brands of headphones, decide on the form factor of your headphones. Headphones are available in three main types. The first type is the in-ear headphones. These types of headphones fit inside the ear canal. They are the most portable of all the options available on the market. Due to the earbuds resting inside the ear canal, some individuals may find this uncomfortable.  The second type is the on-ear headphones. These earphones rest on the outer portion of your ear. They are a great choice of headphones for those who do not like the in-ear option. They are also soft to wear, super comfortable, and offer better sound quality than in-ear headphones. The only downside is that it is quite large and therefore much less portable than our previous option.  The last main type of earphone is the over-ear. This is the most comfortable one of all the options. They do not touch the ears. Instead, they have soft padding that rests around the ears. Over-ear headphones also offer top-notch sound quality. Wired vs. wireless This is the second thing that you need to decide on before you start shopping for earphones. Wireless headphones are currently very popular. They are super easy to use and offer a lot of conveniences. You do not have to worry about detangling wires.