5 important questions to ask a financial advisor
finance

5 important questions to ask a financial advisor

Financial planning is a complicated endeavor that does not stop with simply opening savings and certificate of deposit accounts. You need an expert who can advise you on the best investment and diversification strategies for building a solid portfolio to secure your financial needs. But before hiring a good advisor, it is essential to understand how the process works and how to proceed from here. These questions can be a starting point. Here are the five questions you must ask a financial advisor: What are your qualifications? Financial planning is a vast topic with several areas of specialization in practice. So, you need to understand whether the advisor provides assistance for financial planning in general or focuses on a specific aspect of portfolio building. Primarily, they practice with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) qualification approved by federal regulatory authorities and guidelines for safe practices. What is the range of services you offer? Their experience will vary depending on the type of services provided, ranging from planning for retirement to tax mitigation strategies and real estate trust services. Some CFPs work as fiduciaries, ensuring they keep your best interests at heart when planning and strategizing your finances. You must also check to confirm any disclosures on the record of previous misconduct or legal sanctions imposed on their range of services.
5 signs that indicate the need to consult a dermatologist
health

5 signs that indicate the need to consult a dermatologist

Typically, people prefer to avoid visiting a healthcare expert since it is a stressful experience. However, a person’s skin, more often than not, provides an adequate picture of their health, so if the skin is showing signs of excess dullness, redness, changes color rapidly, or displays other symptoms, it is advisable to see a skincare expert at the earliest. Here are some of the signs that mean that one has to visit a dermatologist: Having dry, flaky skin patches Dryness and flaky skin patches are indicative of health conditions like psoriasis or eczema. In fact, these tend to be some of the early symptoms of such a condition, making it imperative for people to visit a dermatologist immediately. A dermatologist can correctly detect such conditions and provide the necessary treatment or prescription-based solutions to reduce the severity of the symptoms and improve one’s quality of life. One especially needs to consult a dermatologist if they experience flaky or overly dry skin on their scalp, chest, knees, elbows, or lower back. Having nail or skin infections Skin and nail infections mean that things like fungus, bacteria, viruses, or yeast have come into contact with a person’s skin. The most common indicator of this is swelling, inflammation, pus, warts, itching, or nail/skin discoloration.
5 common gardening mistakes to avoid
home and garden

5 common gardening mistakes to avoid

Gardening isn’t something you get right on the first try. It requires some trial and error to perfect. Sometimes, you might find a plant doing poorly in one spot of your yard but thriving in another. While you might need more than a couple of tries to get things right, you must first learn about the common gardening mistakes to avoid. Luckily, most of these are easy to step over. Skipping compost Plants need nutrients while growing, and the best way to supply them is by adding compost. By skipping compost, you’re falling prey to one of the most common gardening mistakes that should be avoided. Compost not only provides plants with nutrients but also adds moisture and improves the soil’s drainage. Ignoring pest control Pests are always waiting for a chance to make quick work of your garden. So, you must find a way to stop them without using poisonous chemicals. One solution is to grow disease and pest-resistant plants that attract birds and insects that eat destructive pests. You can use some non-toxic traps and sprays occasionally. Poor watering habits It’s impossible to ignore how many of us water our plants and gardens at the wrong time. If you want the lawn to retain moisture, water it last thing at night or first thing in the morning.
4 mistakes businesses should avoid when buying software
software

4 mistakes businesses should avoid when buying software

Businesses often need new computer software to function efficiently and improve performance. However, purchasing software is not as easy as it sounds. There are many options in the market, and choosing the wrong one can cost the business dearly. Moreover, computer programs and software are long-term investments, and it is not viable for companies to keep switching between products frequently. With that in mind, here are the common mistakes to avoid while buying software. Buying generic software Many companies invest in generic software rather than specialized ones because they are cheap and help save money in the long run. However, generic software provides basic features and lacks specific capabilities a business may require. For instance, a manufacturing company may require an inventory tracking feature, which may be absent in generic software. So, when choosing, it is critical to ensure the product meets the needs of a business. Choosing software that is hard to use While choosing computer software, one must remember that their employees are the end users. A cluttered interface and too many menus can make it challenging for them to use the software, which can affect the organization’s daily operations. Moreover, some programs have complex features that may never be used.
6 natural drinks that can help relieve constipation
health

6 natural drinks that can help relieve constipation

Constipation is a common condition that develops when one has fewer than three bowel movements a week. The stool that remains in the digestive tract hardens over time, making it difficult to pass. Constipation can be a result of health conditions or lifestyle factors. Although it can cause discomfort, it should not be a source of embarrassment. Further, to ease abdominal pain and reduce constipation, one should try the following drinks: Prune juice Prunes or dried plums are known for their laxative properties and for improving gastrointestinal health due to their fiber, sorbitol, magnesium, and potassium content. Certain studies have found that an intake of 80 grams of prunes per day can increase the load and frequency of bowel movements. Prune juice can relieve constipation by easing the movement of food through the digestive system. Lemon juice Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C that pulls water into the gut. The increased water content helps soften the stool and facilitates digestion to relieve constipation. One can squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water and have it twice a day. Apple juice Apples are a great source of water-soluble fiber (pectin) and sorbitol, which can add bulk to the stool and help it move faster through the digestive tract.
6 signs of bad dental practices
health

6 signs of bad dental practices

Maintaining good oral hygiene does not simply refer to brushing, flossing, and home remedies. Periodic planned visits to the dentist’s office also determine the scope of oral care in the long run. But one must also be aware of the possibility of dental negligence from the professional and unsafe practices that con unsuspecting patients. It’s necessary to assert extra vigilance and identify these common red flags that question the authenticity of dental care treatments. Providing inflated bills Often, people get overwhelmed with technical jargon used for explaining treatment packages. Some professionals take advantage of this situation to bill charges explicitly without one’s knowledge. Not paying attention to detail A comprehensive exam and a thorough review of past health complications can provide valuable insights for the dentist to plan a good treatment. However, if he or she is taking this step lightly, then it’s better to avoid fixing another appointment and find a better practitioner in the neighborhood. Lack of ethics Speaking rudely, not paying attention, or unnecessarily losing one’s calm because their patients are asking questions are all warning signs that should not be ignored or tolerated. Too many promotions and ads A dental clinic that spends too much time and money advertising on billboards and online may not be good enough, as there is such a thing called as overselling.
6 foods to eat for skin, nail, and hair health
health

6 foods to eat for skin, nail, and hair health

The nails, hair, and skin perform more vital functions than we can imagine. While the nails contribute to sensations and protect the digits, the hair helps regulate the body’s temperature. The skin forms the body’s outermost layer and protects it against harmful substances and injuries. Thus, healthy hair, skin, and nails are essential for overall physical well-being. Here are some foods one should incorporate into one’s meal plan for hair, skin, and nail health: Fatty fish Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, significantly boosting skin, hair, and nail health. They protect the body from sun damage and ensure good scalp health. Eggs Besides being excellent protein sources, eggs are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, E, and B7, zinc, and biotin. Consequently, they are highly recommended for hair, skin, and nail growth and strength. For example, one can have eggs for breakfast in the form of popular breakfast meals like scrambled eggs, boiled eggs, and omelets. Oatmeal Oatmeal is packed with fiber, zinc, copper, and essential vitamins. Zinc is particularly effective in reducing acne and facilitating strong nails. When eaten with milk, oatmeal can act as a complete breakfast meal and replenish the body with the required protein intake.
3 dos and don’ts for healthy nails
health

3 dos and don’ts for healthy nails

Although made from skin cells, fingernails and toenails are hard due to the laminated layers of a protein called keratin. Regardless of their texture, nails are an essential body part as they help us pick up things and protect our toes and fingers. Hence it’s crucial to care for them and maintain their health and appearance. What follows are a few dos and don’ts when practicing a nail care routine. Dos for healthy nails Keep them dry and clean Fingernails and toenails shouldn’t be kept wet for too long as moisture is a hotbed of bacteria production. Soaking the nails in water for an extended period can also lead to a split in the fingernails, which can become painful and lead to infections. Always wear rubber gloves with a cotton inner lining when washing dishes and cleaning the house or bathroom. They will keep your hands and nails from getting wet and coming into contact with harsh chemicals. Cut them regularly An essential component of good personal hygiene is cutting the nails regularly. While you can get a manicure from a professional, using clean clippers at home will also do the job. Cut the tips across and then shape them from the sides for a gentle curve that doesn’t hurt or get stuck in clothes.
7 hair care tips for healthy tresses
beauty

7 hair care tips for healthy tresses

Maintaining radiant and healthy hair is a desire many share, but achieving it often requires consistent care and attention. Occasional external care and visits to the salon occasionally can benefit one in the short term, but one also needs to adopt healthy habits to see long-term results. There are numerous ways and hair care tips, as given below, that can help one achieve lustrous and healthy hair, some of which are: Avoid using heat-based styling tools Using heat-based tools for styling, like curlers, flat iron, or blow dryers, can cause severe damage to one’s hair, mainly if used too frequently. For styling, one can put on a layer of heat protectant spray first to minimize damage. Air or natural drying after hair wash is ideal. Brush gently Aggressively drying out one’s hair after hair wash also leads to breakage and damage and may even lead to hair fall if one has brittle and thinning hair. When one’s hair is wet, one can squeeze out excess water and gently detangle strands to avoid unnecessary tugging and pulling. Use shower filters This tool is essential in places that receive hard water. This type of water is heavy with mineral deposits, and it can clog one’s hair follicles and cause breakage or hair fall.
4 questions one should ask a gastroenterologist
health

4 questions one should ask a gastroenterologist

Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive tract disorders. This can include problems ranging from the passage of gas, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome to even colon cancer, and more. While asking them certain questions can be embarrassing, one must not shy away from them. Instead, one must enquire about the issues to receive more information. Keep reading to know more about these questions and why they must be asked. Is passing a lot of gas an issue? Usually, one may release gas in the form of burps or even farts, but most people do not know that this gas forms due to many reasons. While the passage of gas is completely natural, sometimes when it builds up, it can lead to bloating and abdominal pain. This often occurs when the patient regularly eats fatty foods, has an increased level of stress, eats too quickly, or has irritable bowel syndrome. In such cases, gastroenterologists may provide a diagnosis of the underlying issue and develop a treatment plan. How do I know if my stool is normal? Typically, stool can be of different colors, shapes, and sizes. It must be log-like and have cracks on its surface.

Top Articles

Top 5 cell phones for seniors
shopping

Top 5 cell phones for seniors

Are you planning to buy a cell phone for a senior family member? Make sure to select something that caters to their various needs. In general, cell phones for seniors must be easy to use, feature large screens, and have reliable safety features. Fortunately, there are a few cell phones in the market that fit the bill. Herein, let’s take a brief look at some of the best cell phones available for seniors today. Lively Smart Lively, previously known as GreatCall, is a company that specializes in making cell phones for seniors. Lively Smart’s large, 6.2-inch display makes reading, typing, and video calling easy and fun. The phone features an emergency alert button, which on activation allows Lively to get the individual’s location and send help. It also comes with features that enable seniors to book a taxi with a touch of a button and speak to healthcare professionals at any time. RAZ Memory Cell Phone The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is designed to help people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of intellectual disabilities stay connected. It has a single, always-on screen that includes large photos and names of contacts, a button to call 911, time, and battery level.
Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy
services

Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy

A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar. NordVPN It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment. CyberGhost If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you.
4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021
shopping

4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021

Tactical boots are designed for professionals who need to move fast and be light on their feet. They are not just used by military personnel. And while out to buy a pair of shoes, everyone knows what size or color of boots they’re looking for, but do you know which brand will meet all your needs? To help you, here are some of the best tactical boots you can buy in 2021. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultra-Lites Tactical Sport Side-Zip Boots Bates Men’s Ultra Lites are one of the best lightweight tactical boots you can buy in 2021. The side zipper makes them easy and incredibly comfortable to put on or pull off, and that sure comes in handy if you’re in a rush. The soles are slip-resistant, so you’re safe on smooth and slippery surfaces. Additionally, these military boots have removable inserts to adjust the cushioning and comfort according to your preference. Under Armour Valsetz RTS Under Armour’s UA Valsetz RTS Tactical Boots are lightweight, durable, and slip-resistant. The textile upper and synthetic leather make them comfortable and offer great support. The Ultralight Micro G™ EVA midsole offers excellent cushioning for the feet. Under Armour has been a star in the world of athletes, so you can rest assured that their tactical boots are comfortable and reliable.
3 best anti-radiation phone cases
smartphone

3 best anti-radiation phone cases

Radio frequency waves and electromagnetic waves have been identified as one of the major health risk factors for humans. With most of the population relying on smart phones and wireless internet for survival, the amount of radiation these devices emit is a cause for concern. But you can invest in a decent anti-radiation cell phone case and prevent such radiation from affecting your health with long-term use. Here are our top three picks: 1. DefenderShield DefenderShield is one of the best anti-radiation cell phone cases you can buy that is also approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The case manages to block out 99.99 percent of electromagnetic radiation. The product is designed with multiple layers of shielding without it affecting the device’s ability to send and receive a proper signal. Their proprietary DefenderShield technology additionally blocks 5G wireless, WiFi, and Bluetooth radiation. The material also manages to dissipate any heat within the layers. DefenderShield anti-radiation phone cases are designed for popular Apple and Android smartphones. 2. SafeSleeve SafeSleeve is another popular alternative that is certified by the FCC. The anti-radiation cell phone case is designed to counter 99 percent of direct 5G, WiFi, and cellular radiation. Additionally, the materials are designed to bounce back at least 92 percent of extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation adsorbed form batteries, AC power adapters, and other external devices.
Top 4 ERP software to choose from
software

Top 4 ERP software to choose from

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software are programs that help businesses keep track of and ensure that their customer orders are in place and the data is easily accessible. The program helps better manage aspects like eCommerce, business intelligence, CRM, and marketing automation. Since it is so crucial for the smooth running of a business, it is necessary you choose the absolute best. Oracle NetSuite Oracle NetSuite is one of the highest-rated ERP software available in the market. The program is favored by a major population of business owners across the globe. NetSuite is designed for ease of use and promotes growth, as it provides you complete control with customization options. Oracle is suitable for everyone, right from bookstores to fashion businesses that need an ERP system. You could take a free product demo from the brand to know more about the program. However, since there is customization involved, the website does not mention a price. Microsoft Dynamics Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a cloud-based accounting system that works optimally in combination with Microsoft Office 365. The program can just as easily be synchronized with other Microsoft products and is very easy to navigate. The business version of the software is equipped with better, faster, and more efficient features.
3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men
beauty

3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men

Do you need an effortless way to shop for the latest fashion and apparel? Your prayers have been answered with monthly fashion boxes for men and women that are delivered home. A seasoned stylist can curate a box of clothing and apparel to fill your wardrobe based on a simple questionnaire. The subscription service is also an affordable way to pay for fashion that you like to explore. You can create a custom wardrobe in a few simple steps with these three top services. Stich fix Stitch fix is a unique no-subscription service that curates monthly fashion boxes for men and women. The process begins with an elaborate questionnaire to help the expert understand your clothing and styling needs. Based on the answers given, stylists at the company will curate the best design, fit, and apparel preference for your wardrobe. Customization is one of the critical features of this service so expect a personal style experience with every order. Stylists handpick the best choices for a service fee of just $20, and you can try out all options before making a purchase. Stitch fix features order on-demand as well, so you don’t have to wait around for scheduled box deliveries necessarily.