9 common habits that affect bone health

A DIY auto repair project sounds like a lot of work, and while that’s true, it is also a fun activity for car enthusiasts. Besides, it is usually good to have some basic knowledge about the vehicle you own, and what better way to learn than work on DIY projects? However, there are some tips and tricks you must know when getting into some auto repair project, so read on further to learn these.

Find the right spot
A car project is no quick job; it needs time and patience. So, simply parking the car in your driveway and working on it will not cut it. Find the right spot for your car – a garage or the basement. If you don’t have the space, maybe a friend or kin can help you with the appropriate space. Weigh your options before committing to the job. While trying to answer these questions, also think of whether you have the time and resources to work on the car. This could take days, weeks, or months to repair. You do not need many specialized tools to do your DIY repair work, but just in case you believe otherwise, you can also speak to a nearby auto shop and ask to borrow some of the tools. They may ask for a deposit, but once you are done using them and return them in good condition, you can get your deposit back.

Put your research together
Now whether you are restoring your old car or working on a small problem with the new car, it is possible that someone has found a DIY solution to it. Thanks to the vast number of videos and tutorials online, you can easily find some answers on popular sites instead of going in completely clueless about the project. Also, there are some companies which offer repair manuals, so that may be a good place for you to start looking for information. If that is not enough, there are several mechanic forums available online which are likely to have advice on auto repair. Some may even ask for an access fee, but that’s nothing compared to the amount you will save by doing the repair job on your own. See what works well for you and go ahead with that option. Also social media today is also a great resource finder. Finding relevant groups on these social networking sites might help you a great deal.

Shop efficiently
One of the reasons why you chose to do a DIY project, apart from it being fun, is to save some cash. So shopping from the right place is absolutely crucial. Some things which may cost close to $500 at your local auto repair shop may be available for almost half the price online. When you are putting your research together, one of the things to put a database on also includes finding the right seller for the parts that you may need.

Once you’ve got your pre-action resource kit, that’s when you actually dive into the process.

Put labels and sticky notes
By this time, you have probably studied your car several times and already know where all the parts go, how they are positioned, and so on. But here’s the catch, this repair work will probably take weeks, and retaining all that information will be difficult. It is advised that you document your process with the help of videos or photos. This is crucial because when you do start to put things back together, you will need all the help you can get. These photos and videos with references and any commentary will help make sure everything is in order and no new issue crops up. You can even label the removed parts to know what is what. This may seem like a tedious task, but you’ll thank yourself later for this process.

Stay patient
A small mistake can potentially dismantle the whole project. There are many parts to making a car, and all these nuts and bolts need to be dismantled and put together carefully. Some excess pressure here and there can put them in a lock, which only a professional mechanic may be able to take out. Also, these small setbacks can easily set in fear in some people. That said, don’t let the machine overwhelm you. If you believe you can fix the problem and have done your due diligence, don’t give up on minor complications. Go back to your research, repair guide, videos, and even check with a trusted, experienced friend who can help you.

Diagnosing and repairing some issues
Here are some examples of how you may want to check for some issues:

Check for the engine light; you can buy the right tool, like an OBD-II scanner, which reads error codes, and can help you identify the underlying issue that is triggering the check engine light.
Pay specific attention to any unusual noises that you encounter. For example, if any part is rattling, grinding, or squealing, it needs immediate attention. These noises indicate a problem with the engine, the brakes, or even the suspension. Keep your eyes and ears open.
Common leaks to check would include an oil leak, brake fluid, or a coolant leak.
Another important hack to know is how to keep your headlight or taillight repaired. These are important for visibility and often can fuse out, so knowing how to fix them can be one of the first small wins for you. Same for other items like windshield replacement or fuse replacement.
Some crucial tools to keep on hand may include things like a socket set, torque wrench, multimeter, and a jack and jack stand.

Most of all, always be extra careful when working with tools, and if possible, have some company with you in case you are working on anything which may need two sets of hands; don’t be shy to ask for help!

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free. 

Gain Laundry Detergent
Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household.

Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent
Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright.

Kirkland Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains. This detergent gives a fresh fragrance to your clothes which most users have found appealing. This liquid detergent is easy to dispense, which reduces the chance of wastage.

Tide Power Pods
Tide Power Pods should be your choice if you are looking for a laundry detergent to achieve heavy-duty cleaning for visible and invisible dirt. The pods are designed with 10 cleaning actives offering deep and hygienic cleaning across all loads. These pods have an innovative laundry capsule technology that enables it to enter the fibers of the clothes so that even hidden dirt is removed. This product works well in any washing machine and all water temperatures. This laundry detergent is available in different pack sizes to cater to distinct needs.

Woolite All Darks laundry detergent
Woolite All Dark is specially crafted to take care of dark-colored clothes among the many available laundry detergents. The liquid detergent has a special formula that is known to eliminate color-fading metal as well as chlorine ions from the water that is being used for washing. This detergent also smoothens the rough fibers, which can make clothes appear old and dull after regular washing. The neutral formula even aids in removing light everyday dirt from across all types of fabrics. This product can even protect delicate clothes as well as dark-colored clothes from the rough effects of washing.

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for plant-based laundry detergents suitable for sensitive skin, then the Free and Clear laundry detergent by Seventh Generation will be great. This powder detergent has a strong quadruple enzyme formula that takes care of tough stains devoid of dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners. The detergent also has plant-derived enzymes like Protease and Amylase, which aid in eliminating all kinds of stains from clothes and fabrics. This hypoallergenic detergent has been dermatologically tested and proved to be gentle for sensitive skin.

Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent
Individuals who opt for eco-friendly detergents can try out the Earth Breeze laundry detergent. The fragrance-free product comes designed in liquid-less sheets that provide powerful cleaning. This detergent is simple to use and store. It also has a paraben-free, vegan and cruelty-free, phthalate-free, phosphate-free, and bleach and dye-free formula, which makes it a good choice for the environmentally conscious. The eco sheets dissolve easily in all water temperatures, making them suitable for use across all washing machines.

Noodle & Boo Laundry Detergent
Noodle & Boo laundry detergent will be perfect if you are looking for a laundry detergent specially designed for babies. The liquid detergent has a plant-based formula that gently eliminates all kinds of stains and odors while preserving the softness of the garment. This detergent comes certified by pediatricians for being hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

Molly Sud’s Laundry Detergent
This laundry detergent powder is a strong and safe option for everyday laundry. The product has 4 stain-fighting organic ingredients that are safe for the environment and your family. It is devoid of artificial fragrance, making it great for sensitive skin. This detergent powder also removes the buildup left on clothes washed in other detergents.

Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for a liquid detergent that offers a clean floral fragrance, then choosing Mrs. Meyer’s laundry detergent is a good idea. The detergent is available in fragrances such as lavender, lemon, basil, and more, giving a fresh and delightful smell to your clothes. This product has a plant-based cleaning formula combined with dirt and stain-fighting enzymes so that you get perfectly clean clothes every time. The cruelty-free detergent formula works great with high efficiency as well as standard washing machines.

These are just a few of the many options for laundry detergents that are available in the market. Most of these are available in varying pack sizes that will meet the requirements of most families. It is noticed that people spend billions of dollars every year on laundry detergents. Most people opt for a detergent that smells good, or is perfect for their needs, or the one that is on sale. However, to choose a detergent that is best suitable for you, ask your dermatologist for a recommendation if you have any skin issues.

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that can cause inflammation and sores in the digestive tract. Further, it significantly affects the colon – the innermost lining of the large intestine. While this health condition can be painful, in rare cases, it can also become life-threatening. So, healthcare professionals suggest patients stay away from potential triggers, especially certain foods. This article will elaborate on the 11 foods that can trigger ulcerative colitis.

Broccoli
While cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli are considered beneficial for the body, they can be harmful for patients with ulcerative colitis. Generally, such vegetables contain high amounts of insoluble fiber. Moreover, when consumed either raw or cooked, these cruciferous veggies can trigger gas and bloating. So, in addition to broccoli, it is suggested that people with digestive issues avoid adding cabbage, cauliflower, and sprouts to their meals.

Beans
Quite similar to cruciferous vegetables, beans are rich in fiber, which can lead to problems like bloating and gas, thus triggering a flare-up. Therefore, healthcare professionals recommend eliminating beans from one’s meal plan to manage ulcerative colitis. But, in cases where patients cannot steer clear of it, they must try different preparations and limit the intake. For instance, one can remove the outer layer of chickpeas to ease the digestion process.

Corn
Corn or corn kernels are known for their health benefits such as managing blood sugar and regulating bowel movements. However, these kernels contain insoluble fiber that cannot be digested by the human body and can cause issues like diarrhea. So, as an alternative, it is suggested that patients with ulcerative colitis or ones experiencing an active flare-up opt for easily digestible foods such as bananas, potatoes, and white rice.

Chocolate
The prominent ingredients of chocolate are caffeine and sugar, both of which can trigger an ulcerative colitis flare-up. In most cases, patients have noticed that these ingredients cause cramping and increase bowel movements. Therefore, those experiencing an active flare-up or living with the condition must stay away from chocolate.

Cake
Food items such as cakes and pastries often contain high amounts of added sugar, which can trigger flare-ups. When one eats such foods, the added sugar can change the balance of gut-based bacteria and cause inflammatory bowel disease-like symptoms. In addition to this, the processed or refined sugar found in such food items can spike blood sugar levels and cause an increase in inflammation. As a result, people with ulcerative colitis are advised to opt for alternative foods such as cantaloupes and other cooked fruits.

Peanuts
Just like high-fiber foods, peanuts and other nuts in their raw form cannot be broken down well by the digestive system. This can cause patients to feel a sense of discomfort during both digestion and bowel movements. Besides, nuts are allergens that can trigger a response in some people, so, it is best to steer clear of this food item. Nevertheless, if one wishes to eat peanuts, they can ground them into smooth butter that can be added to smoothies.

Raw onions
Raw onions are one of the common foods that can trigger ulcerative colitis as they contain fiber that cannot be digested easily. Additionally, these veggies can cause gas, which can lead to stomach pain in some people. As an alternative, one can opt for other herbs such as basil, thyme, and parsley to add flavor to their meals. If needed, one can even cut onions into small pieces and cook them thoroughly to reap the maximum benefits of the food.

Tomatoes
Even freshly picked tomatoes are acidic in nature, which can irritate the intestinal lining. Moreover, tomato seeds can prove to be incredibly difficult to digest for ulcerative colitis patients. So, one can either limit the intake of tomatoes to half a cup or opt for other alternatives, such as squash, which can be consumed in the form of soup.

Coffee
The main ingredient of coffee – caffeine, is a stimulant that can make way for problems such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Furthermore, coffee has chlorogenic acid, which can lead to an increase in the production of stomach acids and cause heartburn. In addition, if one is used to having large amounts of coffee throughout the day, it can leave one dehydrated, worsening the symptoms of the condition. Therefore, it is best to avoid such triggers that can cause an ulcerative colitis flare-up. Alternatively, one may peel off the outer layer of cucumbers and squash and prepare a healthy snack option.

Soda
Most carbonated beverages such as soda contain high amounts of artificial sweeteners – a definite ulcerative colitis trigger. Additionally, they contain caffeine, which can increase bowel movements and gas and the bubbles in these beverages can also cause one to feel bloated and have cramps. So, people with ulcerative colitis are advised to keep away from such beverages that can irritate the gut lining and increase the risk of inflammation and flare-ups. Instead, they are suggested to opt for fresh fruit juices like grapefruit, oranges, and other citrus fruits to keep themselves hydrated.

Milk
People who are lactose intolerant can experience inflammatory bowel disease-like symptoms when they consume milk and other dairy products. This is because milk contains certain proteins called casein, which can lead to intestinal inflammation and other gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Thus, ulcerative colitis patients are suggested to either completely avoid milk and dairy products or limit their intake to keep flare-ups at bay.

The above foods can trigger ulcerative colitis as well as Crohn’s disease, both of which are inflammatory conditions. However, one must keep in mind that ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are different health conditions related to the digestive tract. While both of them have similar symptoms such as rectal bleeding and diarrhea, the former affects the lining of the colon, the latter causes chronic inflammation of the complete gastrointestinal tract.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a rare disease that causes scarring in the lung tissues, causing breathing difficulties. On the other hand, Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening, chronic, progressive disease of mucus glands. It primarily affects the respiratory system and digestive systems of young and adults. It can also affect the sweat glands and reproductive system. Both are lung diseases but have very different symptoms. Both diseases are progressive and chronic and eventually lead to fatalities.

Impact of pulmonary fibrosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) causes lung scarring, making it thicker and less elastic. As a result, patients with PF cannot take in enough oxygen while breathing. The scarring may also affect the air sacs, a lace-like structure that supplies oxygen to the capillaries, absorbs carbon dioxide and releases it during exhalation. Scarring in the air sacs prevents the lungs from expanding, preventing one from taking deep breaths, which directly limits the amount of oxygen that can enter the blood. 

Allergens, side effects of prescription treatments, pollution, and family history, are said to be the causes of pulmonary fibrosis. Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for the disease. However, the symptoms can be managed with treatments and lifestyle changes. And since it is a progressive disease, it mostly leads to fatalities.

Treatment of pulmonary fibrosis
In the absence of a specific cure, doctors use the following methods to manage pulmonary fibrosis systems and to stop its progression:

• Prescription treatments
• Oxygen therapy
• Lung transplant
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Lifestyle modification
• Healthy meal plan

Foods to manage pulmonary fibrosis
A well-balanced, healthy meal plan can help a PF patient to maintain BMI levels, reduce inflammation, ease digestion, and fight infections. Here are some of the best food for pulmonary fibrosis:

Food rich in antioxidants
Food rich in antioxidants can help control inflammation and fight the free radicals in the bodies. Food rich in antioxidants include:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Sweet potatoes
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Tomatoes
• Squash
• Citrus fruits
• Mangos
• Cherries
• Berries
• Green tea
• Sea vegetables

Lean protein
Daily intake of protein can help strengthen the muscles in the respiratory system. It helps a person feel full after a meal and helps maintain healthy BMI levels. Some of the best protein-rich food for lung health are:

• Fatty fish
• Walnuts
• Poultry
• Colorful fruits and vegetables
• Grass-fed lean meat

Immunity building food
A person with PF may already have a weakened immune system. Increased intake of immunity-boosting food can help reduce immunity and improve overall health. Some immunity boosting food include:

• Beets
• Pepper
• Apples
• Kilwi
• Turmeric
• Blueberries
• Kale

Omega-3 fatty foods
The three primary fatty acids of omega-3 fats are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). They are found in cell membranes in the eye, brain, and sperm cells. They are crucial for making hormones that help expand and contract artery walls and regulate blood clotting and inflammation. The human body does not naturally produce omega-3 fatty acids and hence, depends on food and related supplements.

• Chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts
• Flaxseed, canola, and soyabean oil
• Salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and herring
• Fortified cereals and yogurts
• Fish oil like cod liver oil, krill oil

Probiotics
Probiotics are particularly beneficial for patients with lung diseases as they contain anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory substances. Probiotics can help fight airway inflammation and lung damage. Avoid probiotics that can cause gas and bloating in case of an acid reflux episode. Probiotics ideal for PF include;

• Cultured vegetables
• Yogurt
• Buttermilk

Apart from eating healthy, keep the body hydrated by drinking water, fruit and vegetable juice, and herbal teas. Avoid processed food, sugary desserts, and carbonated drinks that can promote inflammation.

Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is another life-threatening inherited condition where the mucus glands produce excessive mucus, and the sweat gland produces excessive sweat. The mucus in patients with CF is very thick and accumulates in the lungs and intestines. Excessive sweating causes salt loss and creates an imbalance of minerals. Both cause malnutrition, poor growth, recurring respiratory infection, breathing difficulty and permanent lung damage, leading to death. CF can also cause other complications like

• Sinusitis
• Nasal polyps
• Clubbing or enlargement of fingers and toes
• Pneumothorax – rupture of lung tissue
• Abdominal pain
• Too much gas
• Rectal prolapse
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Gallstones

Cystic fibrosis medical treatment
Until recently, cystic fibrosis was diagnosed after symptoms began. With advancements in medical technology, cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed within one month of a child’s birth before symptoms begin to show. Though no cure exists, discoveries have helped control and manage CF symptoms. This has led to an increase in a life span of a person with CF to an average of 50 years.

Gene therapy
Since it is a genetic disease, starting Gene therapy early and fixing or replacing the faulty gene can help manage CF. Doctors may also give the patient an active form of the missing or defective protein.

Prescription treatment
Doctors use a combination of oral, injectable, or intravenously-administered treatments to target gene mutations, considered one of the biggest achievements in treating CF. Other treatments include:

• Antibiotics to prevent and treat lung infection
• Treatments to thin and dilute the mucus
• Anti-inflammatory treatments to reduce swelling in airways
• Stool softeners to prevent constipation
• Bronchodilators and other inhaled to keep airways open
• Oral pancreatic enzymes to improve digestion

Therapies to loosen mucus
Apart from prescription treatments, doctors use multiple therapies and techniques to loosen the mucus in the airways, making it easier for the patient to cough it out. The therapies include:

• Vest therapy
• Specific breathing and coughing techniques
• Use of mechanical devices to blow air into the mucus
• Clapping with cupped hands in the chest to loosen mucus
• Vigorous exercise

Pulmonary rehabilitation
Since it is a chronic condition, doctors plan treatments and therapies that help manage CF’s long-term impact. They include:

• Physical exercise
• Breathing techniques
• Food modification
• Oxygen therapy
• Education for patients and caregivers

Surgery
Doctors may perform surgical and other procedures to manage some of the conditions caused by CF. They may insert a feeding tube to aid digestion. They may also use surgery to remove nasal polyps. Patients may also use a nose or mouth mask while sleeping for better breathing. Bowel blockages may develop in CF, and doctors may perform surgery to remove it. In addition, some patients may need a lung, pancreas, or liver transplant if other treatments are ineffective.

Most people with bad credit scores often struggle to get a loan. At first, it can be quite frustrating. Fortunately, today various lenders may offer loans ranging from $500-$5000 or above for bad credit. It can make things easier for individuals with poor credit scores. Nevertheless, one must be careful while taking out such loans. Hence, here are some important things that one must keep in mind during the process.

Things to consider while taking out bad credit loans

Keep an eye out for the best deal
In most cases, bad credit scores mean unfavorable terms for the borrower. However, this is not always the case. Some lenders can provide individuals with better negotiation terms and rates. So, to make the best of these bad credit loans, one must conduct thorough research and find lenders that can meet one’s requirements and preferences. Furthermore, one must look for the best deal with the most favorable terms. It includes transparency about the interest rates and additional fees.

Besides this, one must carefully read through the document. Then, the final decision can be made based on all the information provided in it.

Focus on the needs, not luxury
While it can seem tempting to take out a loan to buy luxurious items, it cannot be considered a wise investment. So, one must always consider all the needs and take out the loan accordingly.

If one finds this hard, try to make things easier by setting a clear budget that specifies all the needs that must be met. Although refraining from temptations can be tough, prioritizing one’s needs over luxuries and other irrelevant items can aid one in managing finances without falling deep into debt.

Consider having a co-signer
Sometimes, if a borrower has a bad credit score, it can become challenging for them to take out a bad credit loan all on their own. In such cases, asking a trusted family member or a friend (preferably a person with a good credit score) to act as the co-signer can be beneficial. It can help one get loans on better terms and even a lower interest rate.

But in such circumstances, one must remember that if one can’t repay the loan, the co-signer immediately becomes responsible for repaying it. So, before making the final decision, one must have a solid loan repayment plan in place.

Additionally, one must make sure to inform the potential co-signer about one’s financial situation in detail so that they can make an informed decision.

Know all the lending terms and conditions
Typically, all credit institutions and lenders have a set of lending terms and conditions that the borrower must meet and agree upon. In most scenarios, this must happen before one signs up for the loan.

Unfortunately, most people do not read through these terms and conditions carefully as they find it difficult to understand the technicalities and the jargon used in the document. However, these terms mention the necessary details of the loan, such as the debt amount, frequency of payment, the agreed rate of interest, and the implications of default payments. So, it’s important for borrowers to read the terms and conditions carefully before taking out the loan.

Things to avoid while taking out bad credit loans

Borrowing more than one can afford
Sometimes, it can be compelling to borrow a loan amount that exceeds one’s affordability, especially if one’s financial situation isn’t good. But during such trial times, one must consider the interest that has to be paid on the loans for bad credit, particularly in cases where the amount exceeds the $500-$5000 range.

Therefore, it is advised to take a closer look at the budget and one’s financial situation and realistically determine the amount that can be paid to the lender every month. If needed, set a loan limit to ensure one never borrows more than the set amount.

Falling for scams
In rare scenarios, issues such as a bad credit score can make one susceptible to potential scammers. So, before agreeing to the loan, one must be wary of indicators like approval of a loan without considering the credit score and fee requests before processing the loan application.

It is because most trustworthy lenders and credit institutions perform a check of the borrower’s credit history and worthiness. They do not ask for additional fees until the loan is approved. Therefore, if one finds a lender that makes shady promises and requests, chances are high that they are scammers trying to take advantage of one’s financial situation.

Making late payments
Usually, when one’s loan request is approved, one may find the amount quickly credited to the account. While this can be convenient for most individuals, the repayments should also be made at the right time. In cases where one makes the mistake of late payments, it can negatively impact the credit score. It can worsen matters as the lower the credit score, the more difficulties one may face in getting loans.  Also, default payments can hamper one’s trustworthiness, which can cause the lender to refuse larger loans.

Therefore, even if the loan amount ranges between $500-$5000, one must be mindful of the abovementioned factors while taking out a bad credit loan. This way, one can avoid all the potential pitfalls and make the best of the current financial situation. Furthermore, one must remember that defaulting on loan payments can result in legal action. So, pay back the loan amount as soon as possible or contact the lender and discuss all the options. If one faces difficulty figuring out the best lender who matches one’s situation and requirements, seek professional advice or look out for various lenders online to make a well-informed decision.