Despite the recent healthcare reform, good family medical insurance is still one of the most valuable benefits included in the employee benefits packages. The medical expenses caused by even the simplest of procedures are enormous, and more serious conditions may lead to a mountain of debt that may take decades to pay off. On the other hand, people with insurance are able to protect themselves by continuously paying a certain monthly fee indifferent of whether they need medical assistance in that specific month. In cases of medical care being needed, the insured individual may need to pay only a small percentage of their actual medical bill, with the majority being covered by their insurance company. Considering that the most basic visit to the emergency room costs around $1000 in the United States, with longer hospital stays often leading to 50, or even 100 times that amount, spending several hundred dollars per month may be a small price to pay for health insurance coverage.

Despite many people seeking health coverage, finding family medical insurane may not often be the easiest thing. Considering that many health insurance providers have specific rules and regulations related to the person’s age, lifestyle and preexisting conditions, finding affordable insurance rates is often a long and complicated process. The Affordable Health Care Act passed in March of 2010, commonly referred to as the healthcare reform, has provided certain options for individuals previously unable to receive an employer-subsidized insurance plan or afford individual health coverage. However, some of the act’s benefits have yet to become effective, and the discrimination based pre-existing health conditions when providing medical coverage will officially be prohibited in 2014. On the other hand, the legislative measure already allows younger individuals to remain on their parent’s insurance plans until they reach an age of 26. This measure thus provides an efficient medical coverage until such young people may find suitable jobs that may offer health insurance as a part of their benefits package.

For people seeking an individual health insurance plan, there are many ways of finding a plan best suited to the person’s needs. As is the case with many other things, the internet provides multiple solutions to this issue as well. Currently, there are multiple sites specializing in providing their users with health insurance quotes based on their basic personal information. Such quotes can often be received in seconds, after providing on the person’s age, zip code, and answering few general questions regarding their lifestyle. The generated quotes and their corresponding health insurance plans will often range from the most basic types of coverage, to the more expensive types of health insurance that may include vision and dental benefits as well. Ultimately, the individual will have to select the plan that is affordable to them, based on their salary and their existing monthly expenses.

Menopause goes by several names: the “Change,” or the “Curse,”. How ever you’ may be familiar with it, it’s an inevitable part of womanhood once you’ve reached a certain age. With menopause, many women report a slew of extremely distressing symptoms. A widely used practice for easing menopause and its symptoms, that comes with the realization of how vital hormones can be to a woman’s sexual health, has been Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT.

What Happens in Menopause?

Night sweating, hot flashes, poor quality of sleep, irritability, mood swings, signs of being mildly depressed, vaginal dryness and bone density loss are just some of the symptoms that occur during menopause. While this is not a definitive list, nor do all women experience all of these symptoms, many will present when it’s time for you to go through menopause.

Along with the symptoms, a woman’s ovaries are unable to produce an adequate level of estrogen and progesterone. Both hormones are vital in vaginal health as well as in thickening the uterine lining and prepping it in the event of the implantation of a fertilized egg. Estrogen is also important in dictating how calcium is used in the body and aids in maintaining a healthy cholesterol level in the blood. Progesterone also has the added benefit of reducing the risk of endometrial cancer in women by causing the shedding of the endometrium (lining of uterus) monthly.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a practice in which artificial hormones are taken, usually orally in the midst of and after the onset of menopause. This provides the body with either estrogen, progesterone or both.

What Types of HRT Are Available? Currently, there are two types of HRT practiced today.

Estrogen therapy: Estrogen is the only hormone taken in a low dose via pill, patch or cream. It’s advised that estrogen in the lowest dose needed is effective against menopausal symptoms.

Progesterone/Progestin and Estrogen therapy:  With this therapy, both estrogen and progesterone, or a synthetic form called progestin, are taken.

Should I Consider HRT? It’s up to you, but if you suffer from some of the previously listed symptoms, then maybe you should consult your doctor before you do so. Especially if you notice that you’re losing bone mass or you’ve stopped having periods or lost functioning of your ovaries prior to your 40th birthday. These conditions, premature menopause and premature ovarian insufficiency, can be treated with HRT as well.

Are There Any Risks Or Side-Effects?

Hormone Replacement Therapy, while an incredibly effective solution, is recommended to be used as a short-term treatment as opposed to a long term solution. Low doses of hormones have not produced any major side effects, but some women have reported mood swings, nausea, headaches, bloating, breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what dosage of hormones is right for you. Some women have reported that HRT may increase the risk of blood clots, disease of the gallbladder, strokes, heart attacks and breast cancer. Please note that you should not undergo HRT if you could be pregnant, have had past issues with vaginal bleeding, have a history of breast or uterine cancer, have a history of blood clots, have a history of strokes or heart attacks or have a disease of the heart or liver.

How can I Get Access To Treatment?

In order to be placed on hormones, you will need to consult your doctor. A trip to your gynecologist can give you the opportunity to receive an official diagnosis of your menopausal symptoms and make sure that it’s not something more serious. At your visit you can also discuss your options and concerns about this huge change in your life. You are not alone in this change and your doctor can be a great source of support and knowledge.

Don’t be afraid to bring up the topic of HRT to your doctor if you think you may be a good candidate. Your physician is there to listen and do what’s best for you so educate yourself before you go into the office. Be honest with them and trust them to treat you as best as possible.

There is always talk of how this food is bad for your heart and how that food does wonders for your skin. The fact we rarely notice is that food has an overall effect on all systems and organs of the body, including your eyes! Eating what’s healthy and right can help you avoid ocular complications such as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), dry eyes and cataracts as well. Mentioned here are some foods which are good for your eyesight, and will help you play an active role in protecting and nourishing your eyes.

1. Eggs

Eggs yolks are rich in the anitioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as vitamin D. Vitamin D has been found to be effective in preventing age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Studies have shown that eating an egg everyday for breakfast or otherwise did not impact the LDL or HDL levels, nor did it increase cholesterol levels.

2. Citrus fruits

The high amount of vitamin C in these fresh fruits is a crucial antioxidant for the eyes. Antioxidants have been found to prevent as well as delay the occurrence of macular degeneration and cataracts, and contribute to maintaining the health of the eyes. Such fruits include oranges, peaches, tomatoes and strawberries.

3. Green veggies

Good news for all those salad lovers out there! Spinach, kale, dark green lettuce and collard greens are all included in this category. The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin (mentioned in eggs previously as well) act as important antioxidants and nutrients, preventing cell damage caused by free radicals. Lutein and zeaxanthin are natural pigments present in the eye, and their nourishment leads to the overall maintenance of the physiology and functioning of the eye.

4. Fish

Researchers have established a connection between omega-3 fatty acids and healthy eyes. And what better source do we have than cold water and oily fish. Foods which are good for your eyesight include tuna, salmon, halibut and sardines. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risks of developing various eye diseases. An Ophthalmology study revealed that consuming omega-3 fatty acids in the diet reduced the risks of age-related macular degeneration by 38%. Furthermore, salmon is rich in vitamin D as well, which has its own benefits on eye health.

5. Legumes and Beans

These foods contain zinc, which despite being a minor element, is present in high concentrations in the eye. Zinc plays a vital role in protecting the eyes from any damage that may be caused by light. Kidney beans, black-eyed peas, peanuts and lima beans fall into this category.

6. Olive Oil

Healthy and plant-based fats (low in trans- and saturated fat) have been associated with preventing retinal ailments. People who tend to use olive oil in their cooking and frying are 48% less likely to suffer from age-related macular degeneration. Better yet, the ‘extra virgin’ kind contains additional antioxidants, making it an overall healthier option.

7. Seeds and Nuts

The benefits of lutein and vitamin C as potential anti-oxidants have been mentioned, but another crucial member of this group is vitamin E. Eating sunflower seeds, peanuts and whole grains can lower the risks of cataracts by 50%. Vitamin C and E protect the eyes from U.V radiation and blindness as well.

8. Dark berries

Blackberries and bilberries are the best foods to consume for improving night vision. They contain high amounts of anthocyanins, which slow down and prevent the occurrences of cataracts and macular degeneration. Research has also revealed that these compounds help strengthen the vessels that supply blood and nutrients to the eyes.

Always remember; you are what you eat. Eat wisely and in moderation. Consume a diet that fulfills your basic requirements and is healthy enough to keep all your systems working smoothly.

Dealing with depression can be extremely difficult. For some people, they are unaware that they are suffering from depression. Many people believe they do not have any problems because they simply don’t want to make a big deal out of something they feel isn’t anything to worry about. The problem is, many of those individuals, who pretend not to acknowledge their issues, continue to experience depression for long periods of time. In some instances, the depression never subsides because of denial and lack of treatment and things simply become worse.

Depression is something that needs to be taken very seriously. It can be very enigmatic and impossible to deal with in some cases without professional help and guidance. 17.5 million Americans are currently suffering from some form of depression. An estimated two thirds of those afflicted will not seek any form of treatment. However, out of the individuals who do seek help, an estimated 80% of them have improved their lives significantly.

These numbers come from the Washington School of Medicine and illustrate how important seeking assistance truly is. Since depression isn’t something that shows obvious outward physical effects, other than weight loss, which can be attributed to many things, depression isn’t easy to diagnose unless the patient is ready to deal with it. The patient will have to discuss issues and be as candid as possible with the doctor in order to expose how they truly are feeling. This can be difficult, intimidating and even humiliating if the patient is unprepared to deal with depression. It’s vital to understand that depression is nothing to be ashamed of. It is very common and happens to people in all walks of life.

Depression exists in many forms. It is difficult to self diagnose. Women experience depression twice as often as men do. For anyone affected, depression can significantly lower the quality of life for any person who has experienced it. The only true and tested way to get better is to seek professional help. If you choose to fight depression on your own, you may be able to reduce it at times, but ultimately, the odds that you will completely defeat it are very low. If you suffer from depression, take solace in the fact that it is treatable and there is a high success rate of dealing with it effectively. Don’t be ashamed or afraid to face depression. You can greatly improve the quality of your life if you tackle it head on.

Exercise not only aids in the physical maintenance of the body, but also acts as a psychological and moral form of therapy. Whether you’re a kid or an older adult, some form of physical activity is essential to stay healthy and fit.

How should you plan your workout routine?

To answer the question of how many hours should you spend on exercise every week,you must consider your age, stamina, health status, and level of fitness, and plan your workout routine accordingly. If you suffer from some sort of cardiovascular disease, you need to plan the intensity and duration of your exercise cautiously. Pregnant women should avoid vigorous exercise, especially towards the end of their pregnancies. Always consult your physician before planning a workout regime.

What types of exercise should you do?

There are broadly two categories of exercises which may be integrated into a working exercise regime.

This includes:

Moderate aerobic exercises: Brisk walking, lawn mowing, swimming, etc.

Vigorous aerobic exercises: Running, dancing, etc.

This includes weight lifting, rock climbing, heavy gardening, etc.

How many hours should you spend on exercise every week?

The number of hours you should dedicate to physical activity each week is determined by your age. Here are some general recommendations for you to follow:

Some form of physical activity is even recommended for babies and toddlers! For babies, light activity such as standing up, moving around, pushing and pulling, is beneficial for good growth and development. For children who can walk, some form of energetic physical activity is advised, about 3 hours every day. This could include biking, swimming, skipping and gymnastics.

Children and Young adults (5-18 years)

People falling under this age group must practice at least three types of physical activity regimes. These include:

Aerobic activity: At least 1 hour each day. This should comprise of both, moderate aerobic exercises such as walking and cycling, as well as vigorous exercises, such as running, gymnastics, collision sports, etc.

Muscle-strengthening activity: At least three days a week, for 1 hour. These exercises involve lifting and managing your own weight, for example tug-of-war, sit-ups, push-ups, basketball, football, tennis, weight lifting, rock climbing, etc. They are very helpful for developing body strength.

Bone-strengthening activity: At least three days a week, for 1 hour. These exercises involve building tension and vigor in your bones, and include weight lifting, skipping, gymnastics, martial arts, etc.

Adults (18-64 years) and Older Adults (65 and above)

Any of the following may be followed:2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity. Alternate with muscle strengthening exercises 2 or 3 days a week for the same duration.1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity. Alternate with muscle strengthening exercises 2 or 3 days a week for the same duration.

Both moderate and vigorous aerobic exercises for 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternate with muscle strengthening exercises 2 or 3 days a week for the same duration.