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Skip to content News, Analysis & Insights on Health, Nutrition and Wellness Search * Home * Nutrition * Vitamins & Supplements * Beauty * Mental Health * Sexual health * CBD * Weight Loss * Hair Loss GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED * 6 Smoothies Loaded with Constipation-Fighting Foods on February 7, 2024 at 6:37 pm Smoothies containing fiber-rich foods like fruit, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help get things moving again. Almost everyone gets constipated sometimes. Constipation is when you poop less than three times a week, and your poop is dry and hard to pass. You might also feel bloated and crampy and just not your normal happy self. There are things you can […] MUSCLE & FITNESS WORKOUTS, NUTRITION TIPS, SUPPLEMENTS & ADVICE * These 3 Simple Training Ideas Will Help You Build Bigger and Better Arms by vkim on February 6, 2024 at 4:02 pm Let’s be honest: When it comes to nice, juicy arms, some of this is going to come down to luck of the draw and having the right parents. We’ve all met people in the gym who are printing off tickets to the gun show like they’re going out of style, but have never touched an GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED * 6 Smoothies Loaded with Constipation-Fighting Foods on February 7, 2024 at 6:37 pm Smoothies containing fiber-rich foods like fruit, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help get things moving again. Almost everyone gets constipated sometimes. Constipation is when you poop less than three times a week, and your poop is dry and hard to pass. You might also feel bloated and crampy and just not your normal happy self. There are things you can […] MUSCLE & FITNESS WORKOUTS, NUTRITION TIPS, SUPPLEMENTS & ADVICE * These 3 Simple Training Ideas Will Help You Build Bigger and Better Arms by vkim on February 6, 2024 at 4:02 pm Let’s be honest: When it comes to nice, juicy arms, some of this is going to come down to luck of the draw and having the right parents. We’ve all met people in the gym who are printing off tickets to the gun show like they’re going out of style, but have never touched an GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED GREATIST HEALTH RSS FEED * 6 Smoothies Loaded with Constipation-Fighting Foods on February 7, 2024 at 6:37 pm Smoothies containing fiber-rich foods like fruit, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help get things moving again. Almost everyone gets constipated sometimes. Constipation is when you poop less than three times a week, and your poop is dry and hard to pass. You might also feel bloated and crampy and just not your normal happy self. There are things you can […] MUSCLE & FITNESS WORKOUTS, NUTRITION TIPS, SUPPLEMENTS & ADVICE * These 3 Simple Training Ideas Will Help You Build Bigger and Better Arms by vkim on February 6, 2024 at 4:02 pm Let’s be honest: When it comes to nice, juicy arms, some of this is going to come down to luck of the draw and having the right parents. We’ve all met people in the gym who are printing off tickets to the gun show like they’re going out of style, but have never touched an PreviousNext LATEST FEATURED NEWS * Pillow Perfection: Best Benefits of Silk Pillowcases Silk pillowcases are excellent for moisture retention, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking properties. This makes them a perfect choice for upgrading your sleep routine. Ready to level up your beauty sleep? Enter: Silk pillowcases. Not only do they retain more moisture than cotton pillowcases, but they’re also great at temperature regulation. Here’s a rundown of the many benefits of these posh pillow protectors. Moisture retention Silk is the unsung hero of moisture management. Unlike cotton and other common bedding materials, silk minimizes moisture loss. Why is this a big deal? Well, it means that your precious skincare products, like that expensive night cream you adore, stay on your face where they belong instead of being absorbed by your thirsty pillowcase. The result is that your skin gets the full benefits of all the moisturizing goodness, ensuring your complexion is plump and dewy, not dry. But it doesn’t stop there! Silk’s moisture retention superpowers don’t just benefit your skin — they also help keep your hair in tip-top shape. Silk pillowcases minimize friction, so your hair glides smoothly over the fabric, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends. Your hair will thank you with fewer knots and more shine. Temperature regulation Whether you’re sweating through a summer heatwave or bundling up for a winter chill, silk pillowcases have your back. These magical sleep companions have a natural talent for temperature regulation. You’ll notice that it feels fantastic when you lay your head on a silk pillowcase. This initial coolness is a result of silk’s breathability and moisture-wicking properties. But here’s the real trick — silk can also trap heat when it’s cold, making it cozy during those winter nights. So, whether it’s a scorching summer or a chilly winter, your silk pillowcase is like your personal climate control system, ensuring you stay comfortable year-round. Moisture wicking Silk’s moisture-wicking abilities are nothing short of impressive. While it doesn’t soak up moisture in the same way as cotton, it excels at drawing moisture away from your skin. So, if you’re prone to nighttime sweating or want to wake up feeling fresher, silk pillowcases are your new BFF. They’ll whisk away that excess moisture, leaving you feeling cool, comfortable, and ready to conquer the day without a damp pillow to cramp your style. Fewer wrinkles TBH, there’s no proof that sleeping on silk will magically erase all your wrinkles. However, many peeps report that they wake up with fewer creases on their face when using silk pillowcases. The logic is that silk’s smooth surface creates less friction between your skin and the fabric, which can result in fewer sleep-induced wrinkles. It might not be a miracle worker, but it’s a pretty sweet bonus. FAQs Where can I buy silk pillowcases? You can find silk pillowcases at various retailers, both online and in physical stores. Many bedding and home goods stores carry them, and you’ll also find a wide range of options on popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Be sure to check the product details for the type of silk and quality, and read reviews for customer feedback to make an informed choice. How much are silk pillowcases? The price of silk pillowcases can vary significantly based on factors like the type of silk, brand, and quality. Generally, you can expect to find silk pillowcases in a price range of $20 to $100 or more per pillowcase. Higher-quality silk and well-known brands tend to be on the higher end of this spectrum. What type of silk is best for sleeping? Mulberry silk is often considered the best type of silk for sleeping. It’s known for its smooth texture, durability, and luxurious feel. While there are other types of silk, like Tussah and Charmeuse, Mulberry silk is the top choice for comfort and quality when it comes to silk pillowcases. Takeaway Silk pillowcases offer a boatload of benefits to elevate your sleep and beauty game. They excel at moisture retention, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking, making them a fantastic choice for a comfy night’s sleep. While the claim of reducing wrinkles isn’t scientifically proven, many users experience fewer facial creases in the morning. So, if you want to indulge in a touch of luxury and enhance your beauty routine, silk pillowcases might be your dream solution. * Zip It Zits! How to Use Hyaluronic Acid on Acne Hyaluronic acid is the “it girl” of skin care right now. Though it shouldn’t be your only secret weapon for keeping acne at bay, it can help manage a zitty situation. If you haven’t been formally introduced yet, hyaluronic acid (HA) is a celebrated skin care ingredient known for its elite ability to moisturize, help out with elasticity, signs of aging, and more. Some folks add it to their acne arsenal to help manage breakouts. We chatted with a derm to see if adding HA to your skin care cabinet is worth it when it comes to acne. Photography by Marc Tran/Stocksy United Does hyaluronic acid help acne? HA is, among other things, an anti-inflammatory, tissue-regenerating sugar molecule also used for wound healing. San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Melanie Palm, MD says HA is safe and effective for acne-prone skin. She also points out that it’s noncomedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. HA doubles down on its help with pores by helping to control sebum production — which Palm says can help manage already clogged pores and breakouts. Palm adds that by improving your skin barrier, HA also lessens redness and irritation caused by breakouts. How to use hyaluronic for acne Plam gives us a play-by-play for applying HA for acne below. Thoroughly cleanse: Gently rid your skin of any makeup, sunscreen, and debris with the right cleanser for your skin type (cleansers for acne-prone skin can be found here). Dry and apply: After cleansing and gently patting your skin dry with a clean towel, Palm says to pat hyaluronic acid into your skin and let it dry completely before layering on other products and serums. Apply add-ons: If you have acne-prone skin, Palm says you’ll benefit from adding beta hydroxy acids (BHA), like salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), like glycolic acid. Moisturize: Palm says that depending on the dryness of your skin, you can add a layer of moisturizer next. Sun protection: No skin care routine is complete without SPF protection. Your future skin will thank you. Does hyaluronic help acne scars? HA on its own is not your go-to acne scar all-star. Other ingredients and treatments have a better shot at improving the look of scars than just topical HA. However, Palm points to newer research suggesting that HA filler (via injection) can improve the depth and appearance of acne scars. Plus, some other studies found that topical HA, when combined with CO2 lasers, can improve the look of acne scarring. You’ll have to discuss these options with your dermatologist to see if it’s right for you. Laser resurfacing usually requires prep work and downtime. Plus, it can be pretty expensive. FAQs You’ve got HA questions; we have answers. Where can I buy hyaluronic acid for acne? Literally almost anywhere. You can find HA serums on Amazon, at drugstores, or you can peruse options at Ulta or Sephora. What’s the difference between hydraulic serum vs. hyaluronic cream? Serums: As Palm explains, serums are typically lighter in texture and are more easily absorbed by the skin, which means they’re usually more potent. Creams: These are thicker than serums, and Palm says they’re more likely to sit on top of your skin or may take longer to absorb. “Those with acne-prone skin can benefit from a hyaluronic acid serum throughout the year but may consider adding a cream to their routine during the colder and dryer winter months,” Palm adds. What are the side effects of using hydraulic acid? “Adverse effects to topical hyaluronic acid are rare, and it’s a generally safe skincare ingredient for all skin types,” Palm tells us. Palm still recommends patch testing any new-to-you skin care product or ingredient to ensure you’re not allergic to it before slathering it all over your face. Overall, HA is gentle and shouldn’t give you any fuss, but if you opt for an HA filler injection, then you run into the risk of adverse effects like pain, bruising, redness, itching, and swelling. Takeaway HA may help you manage breakouts thanks to its help with controlling sebum production. It’s a safe and gentle moisturizer, too, so those with acne-prone skin don’t have to worry about clogging those pores. Be sure to add other acne-fighting ingredients to your routine for your best shot at clear skin. NUTRITION BEAUTY * January Favourites: I’m A Stampfluencer Now January “favourites” and what an eclectic mix we have going on here! Family photo albums, rubber stamps and a stand-up show that will have you chortling away and wishing for more. As per monthly favourites tradition, there’s a video to accompany this post – it’s right at the bottom of the page. Ad info: no The post January Favourites: I’m A Stampfluencer Now appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * What’s In My Mystery Makeup Bag? I took a little makeup bag with me on an overnight trip a couple of months ago and then when I got home again from my travels I forgot to unpack it. I only happened upon it by total fluke, the other week, when I went searching for one of those sticky clothes rollers in The post What’s In My Mystery Makeup Bag? appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * Six Week Invisalign Update: Permanent Low-Key Crossness I’m six weeks into my Invisalign treatment (read this if you need to catch up on why I’m doing it) and despite the experience being relatively drama-free, so far, I’ve realised this week that never in my entire life have I felt such a permanent sense of mild-to-middling crossness. It’s a very low-key, subtle sort The post Six Week Invisalign Update: Permanent Low-Key Crossness appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * Cropped Trousers and Gargoyle Shoes: Why I Can’t Get On With Trends As part of my ongoing attempt to smarten myself up and streamline my wardrobe I have been trying out new fashion trends. I say trends, they’re really just things that many people have been wearing for ages yet I still find hilariously novel: cropped wide-leg trousers (ie trousers with legs that just look too short), The post Cropped Trousers and Gargoyle Shoes: Why I Can’t Get On With Trends appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * Foundation Review: Lancome Teint Idole Care & Glow I think that one of my all-time favourite foundations has been knocked from its winner’s podium: I’ve finally found a longwear makeup base that I love more than Lancome’s Teint Idole Ultra Wear. It’s – wait for it – Lancome’s Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow. No, I’m not being facetious: this is an The post Foundation Review: Lancome Teint Idole Care & Glow appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * My Most-Used Skincare Products: 2023 In February, it’ll be fourteen years since I posted my first blog on this website. Back then, in 2010, the website was called A Model Recommends and each post was a couple of hundred words long, if that. I just wrote exactly what I thought of a product in the shortest, snappiest way and the images The post My Most-Used Skincare Products: 2023 appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * Why I Don’t Want Invisalign I have to have Invisalign and to say that I’m not massively keen would be an understatement. I’m viewing it as a necessary evil and in this post I wanted to outline a few things about the whole process that I’m not too enthusiastic about. But first, some backstory: A few years ago I was The post Why I Don’t Want Invisalign appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * Best Christmas Gift: Books and Chocolate 2023 It’s the Best Christmas Gift: Books and Chocolate 2023 Edition. I write this post every year and – despite always preparing it at the start of November – it never gets published until a couple of weeks before Christmas. I sort of like it that way – it’s my very own Christmas tradition and quite The post Best Christmas Gift: Books and Chocolate 2023 appeared first on Ruth Crilly. * What’s In My Travel Bag? A quick little beauty post to break up the contact lens content. I mean, I’m verging on becoming an eye blogger at this point. There are two or three posts on laser eye surgery to come yet and who knows what eye-related things I’ll find to write about after that? Sunglasses? Lash growth serums? I’m The post What’s In My Travel Bag? appeared first on Ruth Crilly. CBD * Full Spectrum vs Isolate CBD Oil If you’re new to the world of CBD oil, you’re in for a treat. The wealth of evidence behind the health benefits of CBD grows seemingly by the moment, and thanks to new laws that have deregulated the sale of CBD it’s easier than ever to find a high-quality CBD The post Full Spectrum vs Isolate CBD Oil appeared first on CTFO PRODUCTS. * 10xPure Gold Super 1000 with CBDa Our CTFO 10xPure Gold Super 1000 is a Pure CBD Hemp Oil that is enriched with CBDa. At CTFO, we have formulated and tested what we call “Nature’s Miracle”. 10xPURE™ GOLD SUPER 1000mg supports higher levels of CBDa for relief from Pain and Inflammation. CTFO delivers the future of CBD The post 10xPure Gold Super 1000 with CBDa appeared first on CTFO PRODUCTS. * CTFO CBD Oil Instructions and Guidelines Instructions for CTFO CBD Oil, the 4 potencies are 300mg, 500mg, 750mg, and 1500mg. CTFO CBD Oil Drops are made from non-GMO, Pesticide Free, CO2 Extracted Hemp Oil using only organic ingredients. And like all our products, they’re manufactured in the USA in a registered GMP, cruelty-free facility. All 4 The post CTFO CBD Oil Instructions and Guidelines appeared first on CTFO PRODUCTS. * Skin Care Products with CBD One of the reasons CTFO provides high-quality skincare products with CBD is that CBD has so many benefits for our skin! CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm the skin, soothe and diminish breakouts, and reduce redness. CBD is also known for locking in moisture and helping protect your The post Skin Care Products with CBD appeared first on CTFO PRODUCTS. WEIGHT LOSS * Best tricep ropes to get chiselled arms at home If you want to tone your arms at home, performing tricep pulldown rope exercises can be beneficial. Besides helping you tone up, it improves your functional fitness to perform daily activities with ease. Pulldown exercises also engage your core, back and shoulders, for more strength. A simple way to build stronger triceps at the comfort … Continue reading "Best tricep ropes to get chiselled arms at home" The post Best tricep ropes to get chiselled arms at home appeared first on Healthshots. * 6 best push-up bars to build upper body strength If you are looking for a workout regime that can help you build your upper body strength and muscles, push-ups are surely the perfect choice. It helps target the upper-body muscles, build strength and improves body composition. This leads to improved metabolism, which helps burn excessive calories. To maximise the effectiveness of this exercise, it … Continue reading "6 best push-up bars to build upper body strength" The post 6 best push-up bars to build upper body strength appeared first on Healthshots. * 5 best gymnastic rings for calisthenics Bodyweight exercises or calisthenics are an essential part of improving your fitness game. Regular practice of gymnastics can sculpt and tone your muscles. This training forces your body to engage multiple muscle groups, which promotes a balanced and functional physique. It also includes isometric strength training, which contributes to muscle size and definition. The most effective … Continue reading "5 best gymnastic rings for calisthenics" The post 5 best gymnastic rings for calisthenics appeared first on Healthshots. * Battle rope exercises for strength: A beginner’s guide If you have started going to a gym, you must have noticed fitness enthusiasts exercising with equipment such as tires, kettle bells, sand bags and thick bars. Some even use huge ropes to sweat it out in a gym. A battle rope looks like a skipping rope, but it is bigger. It is also made … Continue reading "Battle rope exercises for strength: A beginner’s guide" The post Battle rope exercises for strength: A beginner’s guide appeared first on Healthshots. * 5 best fat-burning cardio exercises for women over 40 If you’re a 40-year-old woman and you want to get in shape, you should engage in exercises designed for middle-aged women. As you age, you may lose muscular mass, have stubborn abdominal fat and have low energy. Cardio exercises can be a great way to lose weight because they not only help you burn calories … Continue reading "5 best fat-burning cardio exercises for women over 40" The post 5 best fat-burning cardio exercises for women over 40 appeared first on Healthshots. * 6 best barbells for strength building at home A healthy life requires maintaining your physical as well as mental fitness. Apart from eating healthy and balanced meals, you also need to pay attention to fitness. Strength exercises and building endurance is an important part of one’s wellness journey. Going to a gym may not always be the most feasible option, but who says … Continue reading "6 best barbells for strength building at home" The post 6 best barbells for strength building at home appeared first on Healthshots. HEADLINES * 6 Smoothies Loaded with Constipation-Fighting Foods Smoothies containing fiber-rich foods like fruit, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help get things moving again. Almost everyone gets constipated sometimes. Constipation is when you poop less than three times a week, and your poop is dry and hard to pass. You might also feel bloated and crampy and just not your normal happy self. There are things you can do to manage or prevent constipation. Eating more fiber and drinking more fluids may help. Fiber adds bulk to your poop, which helps to keep it moving through your digestive system. Drinking enough fluids helps prevent your poop from drying out. Smoothies are a great way to fit in some extra fluid and fiber. You can put all kinds of stuff into a smoothie. Fruit, a staple in most smoothies, provides both fiber and fluid. Chia seed or flaxseed are used in these recipes for an extra fiber boost. These powerful little seeds have both been studied and found to help with constipation. Try some of these yummy smoothies to help get things moving. Recipe notes Frozen fruit is used in these recipes to make the smoothie thicker and colder. You can substitute fresh fruit, but you might want to add a handful of ice cubes to improve the texture. You can use cow’s milk or any nondairy milk in these recipes. You can use flaxseed, chia seed, or a mix of both, depending on what you have around. If you want extra sweetness, you can use vanilla yogurt instead of plain for recipes with yogurt or use sweetened nondairy milk in place of unsweetened types. You can also add a teaspoon or 2 of maple syrup or honey to the ingredients before blending. Strawberry kiwi smoothie Jasenka Arbanas/Getty Images Typically, studies look at overall dietary patterns, rather than focusing on specific foods to help with constipation. We do have some data on kiwis, though! And the research shows that eating more kiwis may help you poop. Kiwis are high in fiber and have some natural enzymes that help to give them a laxative effect. Strawberries and flaxseed also add extra fiber to this smoothie. Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 kiwis, skin removed and cut into cubes (approx 1 cup frozen kiwi) 1 cup frozen strawberries 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Yogurt berry smoothie Yulia Reznikov/Getty Images Berries of all kinds are great sources of fiber and fluid. Some research suggests that berries are one of the best types of fruit to support healthy gut bacteria. You can use one type of berry, or try a mix. Up to you! Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 2 cups frozen berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, or a mix) 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/2 banana 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Avocado tropical smoothie 949881670 Avocados are high in soluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps to keep stool soft and easier to pass by holding in more fluid. Along with the avocados in this smoothie, mango, pineapple, and chia seeds are also great sources of fiber. Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 1/2 avocado 1 cup milk 1 cup frozen mango 1/2 cup frozen pineapple 2 tablespoons chia seed 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Peach raspberry smoothie ALEKSEI BEZRUKOV/Getty Images This smoothie features peaches and raspberries. Raspberries help to support healthy gut bacteria. Peaches are a stone fruit. Stone fruits contain sorbitol, which can have a laxative effect. Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 1 cup frozen peaches 1 1/2 cups frozen raspberries 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons chia seed Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Oat PBJ smoothie Gojak/Getty Images This is like drinking that childhood favorite, a peanut butter and jam sandwich. Sounds weird, but it’s tasty! Oats, peanut butter, banana, strawberries, and flaxseed are all fiber sources in this smoothie. Like avocados, oats are a source of soluble fiber, which helps to keep your poop softer. Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup oats 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter 1 cup frozen banana slices (approx 1 banana) 1/2 cup frozen strawberries 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Purple date smoothie NZSteve/Getty Images Dates contain sugar alcohols, which act like a natural laxative. Depending on your blender, you may need to soften the dates before you blend them. To do this, place your dates in a bowl, then add enough hot or boiling water to cover them. Soak the dates for about 10 minutes, then drain the extra water. You can now add the dates to the blender with the rest of your ingredients. Start to finish: 5 minutes Serves: 1–2 people Ingredients 1 cup milk 1 cup frozen mango 1 cup frozen blueberries 3 Medjool dates (make sure the pits are removed) 2 tablespoon ground flaxseed Directions Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth. Takeaway Fiber and fluids can be helpful in managing constipation. Blend up a smoothie to get fiber and fluids in one cool serving. If adding more fiber and fluids isn’t enough on its own to manage your constipation, that’s OK. Many people also use other strategies such as pelvic floor therapy, exercise, supplements, or medications to manage constipation. Speak with a healthcare professional to see what strategy is right for you. * Your Guide to Navigating Crohn’s Disease Medical Expenses and Insurance The costs associated with Crohn’s disease medical care and treatment can really add up. Understanding your health insurance options and getting financial assistance can help you cover your costs. Having Crohn’s disease is complicated enough, with unpredictable and often painful symptoms that may keep you close to the bathroom. Adding to the frustration can be the high cost of treating a chronic condition. You might pay out of pocket for medications and ostomy supplies, doctor’s visit copays, emergency medical treatment, and insurance premiums. More than that, caring for Crohn’s can become a full-time job, taking you away from the one where you actually get a paycheck. Indirect costs, such as lost wages for time off to care for your condition, can add to the overall price tag, leaving you stressing even more about your bank account. Here, we offer a look at the costs associated with the medical care and management of Crohn’s. Plus, we provide options on how to navigate insurance coverage and find ways to reduce the slow drain from your checking and savings. Understanding health insurance Health insurance comes in many different forms, from private insurance to public options, including Medicare and Medicaid. The type of insurance you’re eligible for will depend on your unique circumstances, including employment and income level. What options do I have to be insured? Private insurance: Group private insurance is typically employer-sponsored, meaning you receive insurance through your employer or your spouse’s or partner’s employer. Your employer may cover all or part of the premium, with the rest generally coming out of your pre-taxed paycheck. Individual insurance: You can also buy individual private insurance plans. But you’ll be responsible for the full cost of premiums. Marketplace insurance: The Health Insurance Marketplace is a public exchange where you can buy health insurance as an individual.Public insurance: Both Medicare and Medicaid are public insurance options, meaning the government administers them, and they apply to people with disabilities. Crohn’s disease is generally considered a disability, by the way.Medicare: You’re eligible for Medicare if you’re 65 or older or are younger and have a disability, end-stage renal disease, or ALS. Medicaid: Medicaid is for individuals with a low income and younger people with disabilities. Is Crohn’s disease covered by critical illness insurance? Critical illness insurance is a plan that pays you a lump sum for a diagnosis of a serious illness. Many critical illness plans cover Crohn’s. Can I get good insurance if I have Crohn’s disease? Yes. The Affordable Care Act ensures that health insurance companies can’t deny you coverage or charge you more for any preexisting condition. In some cases, however, insurance companies can deny coverage for certain treatments or medications. But if you’re denied, you can appeal that decision. Crohn’s disease regular treatment cost Your cost of treating Crohn’s will vary depending on factors such as your: medications procedures symptoms insurance related conditions you may have How much does it cost to treat Crohn’s disease? According to a 2019 study, the yearly healthcare costs for people with IBD were more than three times higher than those for people without IBD — $22,987 per year vs. $6,956 per year. People with IBD also had higher out-of-pocket costs. These are any fees that your health insurance doesn’t cover. For example, you might have a copay for clinic visits and a deductible that must be met before most treatments are covered. The 2019 study reports that people with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s, pay about $2,200 per year out of pocket. Indirect costs also factor in, leading to lost wages from hospital stays, doctor’s appointments, and symptom management. People with IBD had $3,000 in lost wages a year — three times higher than work-related lost wages among people without IBD. How much do prescription medications for Crohn’s disease cost? The medications you may need to treat and manage Crohn’s may be different than what someone else requires. Here are a few commonly prescribed medications for Crohn’s and their associated costs, which will also vary depending on prescription coverage: upadacitinib (Rinvoq): as low as $5 per month with insurance or patient assistance, but over $6,000 without adalimumab (Humira): $5–$12 per month with insurance or patient assistance, but nearly $7,000 without risankizumab (Skyrizi): as low as $5 per dose with insurance or patient assistance, but nearly $20,000 without ustekinumab (Stelara): as low as $5 per dose with insurance or patient assistance, but over $25,000 without If you’re having trouble affording your medications, talk with your pharmacist or doctor about coupons that can help. Additionally, many drug manufacturers offer patient assistance programs that can help you receive your meds at a lower cost or even for free. More serious or emergency medical care If you need a surgical procedure or emergency medical care, your treatment costs for Crohn’s may go up significantly. A 2019 study found that people with IBD who required at least one ER visit per year paid an additional $15,000 on top of their usual IBD costs. Treating and maintaining mental health Mental health treatment may also be a part of your overall cost for treating your chronic condition. Research from 2021 found that more than 40% of people with IBD have a mental health diagnosis, such as anxiety or depression. These findings are based on nearly 53,000 patients with IBD. According to the study, people with IBD who require mental health treatment often have higher costs associated with care for emergency room visits, hospital admissions, surgical costs, and medication fees, when compared to those who have IBD but don’t require care for mental health. Resources and financial assistance programs for Crohn’s If you’re having difficulty with the high costs of Crohn’s care, you can consider several options: Hospital financial assistance and payment plans: If you’ve had a hospital stay or ER visit, contact the hospital’s financial department. They should be able to offer you an interest-free payment plan, and they may be able to provide financial assistance, which often means lowering your bills. Drug manufacturer patient assistance programs: Many drug manufacturers have patient assistance programs that can help reduce your drug copay or eliminate it altogether. Benefit caps are often based on financial need, but the income threshold is sometimes as high as $100,000. Nonprofit organizations: Several nonprofit organizations help patients in need with medical costs. Simply do an online search: “nonprofits that help pay for IBD care.” Medical supply/ostomy assistance programs: If your condition requires ostomy supplies, the United Ostomy Association of America, Inc., has a list of emergency resources. * The Specialist: What Are My Treatment Options for IBS-C? Dr. Qin Rao answers common questions about treating irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. What is IBS with constipation (IBS-C)? What are the signs I should speak with a doctor about treating it? Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) is a functional disorder in which people develop symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, and gas, with bowel movements dominated particularly by constipation. IBS-C is one of the most common GI disorders diagnosed by a doctor and has a heavy socioeconomic burden. It’s more prominent in women, people younger than age 50, and in people with a history of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The exact cause of IBS-C is unknown, but there are several working theories. People with symptoms of IBS-C that don’t respond to lifestyle changes or over-the-counter (OTC) medications should see a doctor. There are a few alarm symptoms for which a person should see a doctor sooner. These include: rectal bleeding unintentional weight loss unexplained iron deficiency anemia nocturnal symptoms family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease. What might I expect at a doctor’s appointment to discuss IBS-C treatment? During a doctor’s visit, a detailed history will be taken. Doctors ask questions about the severity and duration of your symptoms and what lifestyle and OTC treatments you’ve already tried. They might also ask questions to rule out alternative diagnoses and look for alarm symptoms before diagnosing you with IBS-C. People over the age of 45 might be asked to have a colonoscopy. The doctor will perform a physical exam. Most people with IBS-C will have a normal abdominal exam, although some might have belly pain or palpable stool on the exam. There are no specific lab tests for IBS-C, but a doctor might request: a blood count to rule out anemia a thyroid level test to rule out hypothyroidism a calcium level test to rule out elevated calcium (a potential cause of constipation) They might also perform an abdominal X-ray to assess the extent of the constipation. If the workup is negative and you’re diagnosed with IBS-C, a doctor will then discuss prescription medications if you did not respond to lifestyle or OTC treatments. What lifestyle changes may help me manage my IBS-C symptoms? People with IBS-C should try to: Minimize stress through methods such as meditation. Incorporate moderate to vigorous physical activity 3–5 days a week. Get enough sleep. Drink enough water. Eat a high fiber diet of 25–35 grams of fiber daily, depending on sex and weight. Avoid high gas-producing foods by attempting a trial of the low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) diet. When should I consider OTC treatments for IBS-C? What are the options? People with IBS-C should start with OTC fiber supplements to help move their bowels. I recommend starting with psyllium husk or methylcellulose and taking enough to meet your daily dietary recommendations. So, for example, if a person needs 30 grams of fiber a day and only intakes 20 grams, they should increase their intake from food or take a fiber supplement to make up the difference. Be aware that taking excessive amounts of fiber without drinking enough water can make you gassy and bloated. If you have reached your fiber goal, you can take polyethylene glycol (Miralax) as the next step. Polyethylene glycol is safe to take once or twice daily and can be titrated according to your needs. Be aware that polyethylene glycol only treats constipation and not abdominal pain, although relief of constipation might improve bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. It can paradoxically also cause increased gassiness and bloating. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If these steps don’t work, see a doctor for evaluation for prescription medications. How long can I safely take laxatives or other OTC treatments? Over-the-counter laxatives such as fiber and polyethylene glycol are safe to take long term as long as you follow instructions. They can cause bloating and dehydration, so make sure to drink enough water. Medications such as senna glycoside can cause a condition called melanosis coli and should be avoided long term. Magnesium supplements should be avoided in people with kidney damage and can rarely cause paralysis and shortness of breath. They also can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping. When should I speak with a doctor about prescription treatment options? What prescription treatments are available? If you’ve tried lifestyle changes and OTC treatment options without success or if you have alarming symptoms, you should see your doctor. Current prescription treatments available for IBS-C include: linaclotide (Linzess) plecanatide (Trulance) lubiprostone (Amitiza) tenapanor (Ibsrela) Prucalopride (Motegrity — used off-label for IBS-C) In addition to constipation, IBS-C can cause other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating. Are there treatment options available for these symptoms? Prescription medications used to treat IBS-C generally help with bloating, abdominal pain, and constipation. In regard to bloating and abdominal pain alone, a number of treatment options are available, including: antibiotics such as rifaximin (Xifaxan), which sometimes can help treat a condition called SIBO (small bowel bacterial overgrowth) dicyclomine (Bentyl) or hyoscyamine (Levsin), which can treat gut spasms menthol (Ibgard), which helps relax the gut There’s mixed data on the efficacy of some of these treatments. Antidepressants have also been shown to be beneficial in treating symptoms of IBS-C, although some can worsen constipation and should be avoided. Are there any side effects or risks associated with IBS-C treatments I should be aware of? The most common side effect of promotility agents is they can cause worsening bloating, gas, abdominal pain, dizziness, and diarrhea. Any medication can cause an allergic reaction. Plecanatide can cause an increased risk of upper respiratory infections (URIs). Prucalopride is a serotonin agonist and is approved for chronic idiopathic constipation. It’s sometimes used off-label for IBS-C, especially if the condition is refractory (resistant) to other medications. Because of the serotonin component, it has a rare but increased risk of suicidal ideation and worsening depression. It can also interact with other antidepressants that an individual is taking. People should try other alternatives before starting this medication and talk with their doctors before starting this medication. They should be monitored closely when they start the medication. What happens if OTC or prescription medications aren’t enough to relieve my symptoms? People who do not respond to OTC or prescription medication may be referred to a motility specialist. A colonoscopy might also be considered. A motility specialist might consider doing additional testing on a patient, such as a sitz marker test to assess gut motility or anorectal testing to rule out pelvic floor dysfunction. People might also benefit from behavioral modification or hypnosis. Dr. Qin Rao is an ABMS board certified internal medicine physician specializing in gastroenterology and hepatology. He is currently a practicing physician at Manhattan Gastroenterology in New York City, specializing in irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, dyspepsia, and hemorrhoid treatment. * Dead Skin Be Gone! How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Face? Exfoliating your face is one thing you don’t want to overdo. Here’s how often you should exfoliate based on skin type. Your face called — it wants to shed a little skin. But before you break out the apricot scrub, let’s dive into the world of exfoliation to reveal the secrets of radiant skin. Read on for everything you need to know about exfoliating, including how often you should do it depending on your skin type. Exfoliation 101: Physical vs. chemical Whether you’re new to exfoliating your face or just need a refresh, here’s what you need to know about your two basic options for safely shedding dead skin off your gorgeous face. Physical exfoliation Also known as manual or mechanical exfoliation, physical exfoliation involves using a tool and some effort to remove dead skin. You can use an exfoliating face brush (the electric spinning ones you see everywhere) for your face or opt for a loofah or body brush for body exfoliation. Or, opt for microdermabrasion or a dermaplaning sesh. If tools aren’t your thing, you can physically exfoliate by using a scrub designed for the face, or you can make your own! Chemical Exfoliating with chemicals is not as extreme as it sounds. Some of the best chemical exfoliants include all-star ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), or retinol. You can prob find them in any beauty store, drugstore, or major retailer. Enzyme exfoliants are also a top-notch option. Look out for bromelain (from pineapple), papain (from papaya), and cranberry enzymes. If you want to kick things up a notch, you can visit a licensed esthetician for a professional chemical peel. These peels speed up exfoliation to reveal even smoother, brighter skin. Benefits of exfoliating Wondering if exfoliating your face is worth it? Check out these benefits: smoother, brighter skin improved texture unclogged pores (fewer breakouts) better absorption of your skin care products Now, let’s get into how often to do it based on your skin type. Normal skin If you’re blessed with “normal” skin (read: not oily, dry, acne-prone, combo, or sensitive), then you have some options to play with. Test out both physical and chemical exfoliants (on different days, spaced out, OFC) and see which option gives you the glowiest results. You can probably stick to exfoliating just twice weekly, too. No need to get heavy-handed here. Combination skin Dry and oily at the same time? Relateable. You can get creative to give your skin the custom exfoliation job it craves. For example, an oily t-zone is very common and can benefit from either a physical or chemical exfoliator. You can also just skip the rest of your non-oily zones and exfoliate those spots less often with a more gentle exfoliator (like a non-intense AHA). Go ahead and hit those oily spots up to three times weekly (as your skin tolerates) and give the more dry spots some days off. Oily skin Feel free to use a physical exfoliator product, oily peeps. As a bonus, oily skin is the only skin type with the green light for extra exfoliation days. Why? Exfoliating oily skin helps prevent your pores from clogging up and leading to acne. The exact number of exfoliation days will come down to what your skin can tolerate. If you’re noticing redness, irritation, or peeling, knock it down a day or two, but you can aim for every other day if your oily skin doesn’t mind. Psst. Acne-prone babes, check out these options for treating acne (spoiler alert: it’s a lot of chemical exfoliants like retinoids, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid). Takeaway Exfoliation is a delicate dance between you and your skin. Some skin types can benefit from extra exfoliation days (we’re talking to you, oily and combo folks), but generally, a couple of times a week is enough for most skin types. Your skin may prefer a chemical exfoliant to a physical scrub. If you notice redness, irritation, and peeling, your skin is trying to tell you it either needs a few days off or is more partial to one type of exfoliant over another. P.S. 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