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6 travel mistakes to avoid when in Europe

6 travel mistakes to avoid when in Europe
Every destination has its own charm, offering its unique different cuisines, tourist spots, architecture, and etiquettes. It’s always a good idea to do some research before going to a new country; it makes travel easier and hassle-free. After all, vacations are meant for relaxation and creating beautiful memories. This article shares some common mistakes travelers should avoid while touring Europe, the continent of royal castles, exquisite cuisines, quaint villages, and appealing architecture. Solely relying on plastic money If you think carrying your card is the way to go on travels, think again. Most cafes, restaurants, bars, tourist spots, museums, and public transportation still mostly accept cash over plastic money. Withdraw an amount that should help take you through most of the trip. This way, you avoid stacking withdrawal fees. However, only carry the required amount for the day. ATMs let you pick denominations, and after your first day in Europe, you should know which denomination mix works best in the country you’re in. Forgetting to claim your VAT tax refund This is an important note to make, especially when making large purchases. You will need a VAT tax refund form at the airport when traveling back home. This piece of paper could reward you with a 19-25% cash refund on all purchases from 0 to 175 euros.

5 common mistakes to avoid when making a hotel reservation

5 common mistakes to avoid when making a hotel reservation
Planning for a vacation is fun. Thinking about the exciting places you’re going to visit, new cuisine, and entertainment adventures can lift your spirits. And since you can arrange everything from hotels to restaurant reservations online in advance, there’s not much running about to do. However, you must be cautious. Some holiday deals may sound too appealing to be true. A mistake while booking a hotel could cost you money and spoil your vacation. Not asking for refundable bookings If paying in advance, one of the biggest hotel booking mistakes to avoid is taking a non-refundable room. A non-refundable package may be cheaper, but travel plans can change abruptly. If you decide to shift your holiday destination and need to cancel, you may have to pay the penalty. So always book a room that comes with refundable rates and free cancelation. Going for the cheapest rooms available A lower price doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best deal. With hotels, you must also read customer reviews while comparing the rates online. There’s a good reason the room is listed for a discount. So, find out what it is before confirming a reservation. Also, use pricing comparison tools available on booking websites.

Avoid these common gift card mistakes

Avoid these common gift card mistakes
Gift cards can be used to pay for several products and services across multiple platforms. Corporate gift cards, holiday cards, and even cash back cards are the most popular formats to redeem online or at kiosks. However, the process of redeeming them is anything but simple. And if not done correctly, you may miss out on many discounts and exclusive offers. Here are five common gift card mistakes to avoid while shopping. Buying from auction websites Gift cards can be used for several retail purposes. But never buy cards that are auctioned off from websites like eBay. You cannot verify the authenticity of these cards being sold online. Moreover, scammers can skim and track the magnetic data on such cards before they are auctioned off. Once you activate the card, scammers can also use it to avail of all the inclusive benefits. So it’s best to avoid buying from such auction websites. Consider only reputable retail and eCommerce stores that offer such redemption options. Keeping cards unused You might often end up receiving gift cards of no specific use. For example, somebody might gift you a $500 card that can only be redeemed for auto spares and accessories. Here, the best thing to do is exchange it on platforms where consumers can buy and sell gift cards.

Avoid these five common cleaning mistakes for a hygienic home

Avoid these five common cleaning mistakes for a hygienic home
While everybody loves the idea of a sparkling clean house, hardly anybody enjoys the process of cleaning. After all, it’s exhausting and demands a lot of time and effort. Nevertheless, cleaning your home regularly is necessary. A great way to make it a quick and convenient process is to avoid some common cleaning mistakes. These mistakes may not only waste your time but also make a home dirty and unhygienic. Starting with the floor Where do you begin when cleaning your entire home? If your answer is the floor, you probably need to rethink your cleaning strategy. This is one of the most common cleaning mistakes to avoid. That’s because when you clean other areas and objects, such as ceilings, walls, photo frames, tables, and lights, dust and other debris can drop to the floor, requiring you to vacuum or mop the floor two times, otherwise, you may end up with a not-so-clean home even after doing all the hard work. So, always begin from the top of the room and work your way down, cleaning the floor in the end. Using dirty cleaning supplies Before you begin, the first thing you must do is check whether your cleaning tools are clean.

6 beginner keto mistakes to avoid

6 beginner keto mistakes to avoid
Planning daily meals is a hands-on task, especially when cooking from scratch. But, this task is even more time-consuming when following a strict food regime like keto. Starting a keto-based habit for the first time is challenging as certain foods need to be omitted and substituted to achieve ketosis. So, here is a list of beginner mistakes to avoid to plan an effective keto meal plan strategy in the long run. 6 beginner keto mistakes to avoid Not portioning meals properly Since a lot of foods in the new regime get substituted, it is necessary to weight, measure, prep, and portion out everything to ensure nutrition levels are met. Also, once the body gets used to the process of ketosis, it becomes even more crucial to follow a strict calorie count. Nutritionists recommend prepping and storing most days meals in advance so that less time is lost in cooking. Keto meal delivery services tend to portion meals out as per individual requirement and can be of use in these cases. Not working out Simply including low-carb and low-calorie foods is not enough for loss of body mass. It is easy to quickly shed off water weight but post that, only physical activity can help the body burn existing fat quicker.

5 things to avoid while buying and wearing lipstick

5 things to avoid while buying and wearing lipstick
Lipsticks are a staple element of any makeup kit. They give you a classy finish and are usually the base element around which you build your entire look. It is believed that using lipstick is an easier process when compared to other makeup products. But in reality, there is a lot that goes into obtaining that perfect pout. Avoid these common mistakes while purchasing and wearing lipsticks to get the desired look. Not picking the right one When purchasing lipstick, it is essential to remember that not all formulas are made the same. Different formulas and textures look different based on the time of the day, the lighting, and even the skin tone and skin type of the individual. This is why it is essential to choose the color and formula that suits you and the occasion. Typically, neon tones and lighter shades are more suitable for the day. For the night, you can switch to brighter and darker shades. You can also choose the type of lipstick based on the occasion. If you need your lipstick to stay on for a longer period, you can opt for a matte finish. Not using a lip liner Another common mistake often observed when wearing lipstick is skipping out on lip liners.

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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

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9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks. It is very common to get into a depressive state before or after the manic episode. Postpartum Depression (Peripartum Depression) This depression episode is characterized by dramatic hormonal changes in women after giving birth. They may tend to experience bouts of sadness and cry anytime. The symptoms usually alleviate after a week or two of giving birth. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) People with this type of depression start experiencing depressive symptoms with a change in seasons. For many, it happens during winter. The individual starts feeling worse as the season progresses and can even have suicidal thoughts.
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Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress. Nausea and vomiting may also cause headaches, but medications cannot always be taken, as they may affect the baby’s health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause extreme mood swings, so everyone around must be prepared to deal with this. Maintaining a healthy relationship with one’s partner and responding to their needs is crucial to ensure a healthy pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, when the baby starts developing quickly. Counseling One of the more crucial aspects of family and pregnancy planning is prenatal counseling.
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