4 effective home remedies to get rid of thyroid nodules
4 effective home remedies to get rid of thyroid nodules

Certain disorders have become quite common across the globe, blame it on the lifestyle choices or the faulty gene we inherit from our family. Whatever the reason for suffering from the disorder, the truth remains that one needs to take measures to lead a normal life despite being afflicted by the disorder. More than half the population of the world suffers from the repercussions of a malfunctioning thyroid gland.

The thyroid gland is situated at the front in the lower part of the neck and secretes the thyroid hormone that is primarily responsible for metabolism. When the thyroid gland secretes more thyroid hormone, it results in a condition called hyperthyroidism, and if it secretes less of this hormone, it is called hypothyroidism. One can refer to the thyroid level chart in order to determine which of these thyroid conditions they suffer from.

The nodules that appear on the thyroid gland vary in sizes, and the bigger ones are known to cause trouble. The nodules on the thyroid are known to cause pain and swelling in the throat, breathing problems, trouble in swallowing the food, etc. and in some cases, these thyroid nodules turn out to be cancerous.

Here are some effective home remedies that can curb the effects on these thyroid nodules.

  • Seafood– With certain alterations in one’s diet, the thyroid nodules can be controlled. It is advisable to include seafood in your daily diet since it is a major source of iodine. When the thyroid gland receives the required amount of iodine, it can produce the right number of thyroid hormones that the body needs. This results in the shrinking of the nodules on the thyroid gland.
  • Ginseng– Ginseng is an ancient Chinese herb that is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Also, it is an abundant source of iodine and can effectively reduce the soreness and unease caused by the nodules on the thyroid gland.
  • Coconut oil– If the individual is already suffering from the impacts of thyroid nodules, then consuming polyunsaturated oils can worsen the matter. Instead, use coconut oil for cooking or consume 2 spoons of virgin coconut oil daily. Since the presence of nodules on thyroid affects the metabolism, coconut oil will aid the process of metabolism and reduce the effects of the nodules on the thyroid gland.
  • Sargassum– Another Chinese herb that is widely used for curbing the effects of thyroid nodules is Sargassum. Sargassum is rich in its iodine content and is quite effective in treating patients with thyroid nodules. Iodine deficiency has been identified as one of the causes of thyroid nodules, and Sargassum will ensure that the body receives the required amount of iodine.

Citrus fruits, fulvic acid, bentonite clay, etc. are also amazing home remedies for treating nodules on the thyroid gland and maintaining the right thyroid hormone level as established by the thyroid level chart.

  • Top four websites to buy used automobiles

    Buying a used car can be overwhelming and daunting. Your options can become limited if you are going to a showroom of a particular manufacturer, and visiting multiple showrooms requires time and patience. Apart from this, you have the power of the Internet to search for a used automobile, such as a truck or a car, that best suits your needs and budget. There are hundreds of websites dedicated specifically for buying and selling used automobiles. However, most of them have scattered information that can put you into a conundrum to pick the best out of the lot.

    The following article shortlists some of the best-used car websites. Read on to find out more.

    Autotrader
    Like every other website, autotrader.com consists of search tools that let you choose the make, model, and price of your desired car. What sets it apart from other websites is it also provides search results on the basis of the fuel economy. You can enter filters like intuitive navigation system, keyless entry, etc. to get a list of cars as per your needs and requirements.

    Hemmings
    This website is best for classic car lovers. Reveling in everything from Studebakers from the 1930’s to the 1960’s Impalas, the hemmings website has an online storefront that lets you buy diecast models, apparels, and even wall calendars of your favorite American Muscle. It is also an excellent source for quick buying tips on used automobiles and upcoming local auctions for the same.

    CarGurus
    This website can be your best bet in finding a bargain on a used automobile, such as a truck or a car. The CarGurus website ranks advertisements based on a dealer’s reputation and the price. It also provides information on the vehicle’s true market value and the best time to shop for used cars. This website also lists the listing duration of the vehicles on its website, giving you the negotiating power on users that have been listed for a while.

    Autotempest
    The Autotempest website is suitable for cross-site comparisons. It combines search results from websites, thereby, creating an all-encompassing list of the best used automobiles. The website also features buying guides, advice, and checklists from automobile experts. Autotempest also offers comprehensive car reviews and answers almost every question asked about buying a used car.

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  • 4 effective home remedies to cure cold sores

    In a bid to lead a healthy life, people have started altering their lifestyle. They eat healthy, exercise and try to keep stress at bay. However, in spite of these preventive measures, various malicious elements in the nature that wreak havoc in our systems. The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is one such element that enters our system through a break in the skin and subjects us to misery for weeks.

    The HSV causes immense pain in the form of cold sores that appear on the surface of the mouth and lips. A group of blisters appears on the mouth and lips, and hamper our daily process like eating and drinking. What makes cold sores dangerous is the fact that they are highly contagious. It can spread to others if the person comes in contact with the infected person.

    However, even though cold sores can seem quite a serious matter, various 1-day cold sore treatments can treat them effectively. These 1-day cold sore treatments are all home-based remedies and will not cause side-effects.

    Here are some effective home remedies for cold sores.

    • Peppermint Oil- Peppermint oil is bestowed with various antiviral properties, which makes it the perfect 1-day cold sore treatment option. Also, the methanol content of the peppermint oil makes it the perfect healing agent. Peppermint oil is quite effective and easy-to-use and poses no threat to anyone. It can be used as a form of treatment for children affected by cold sores.
    • Tea Tree Oil– Tea tree oil is another effective home remedy which can cure cold sores in no time. It can be used on the cold sore on the lips as well. Soak a cotton ball in tea tree oil and apply it on the affected area. The antiviral and antibacterial properties of tea tree oil speed up the healing process, and in no time, one can get rid of cold sores.
    • Ice– The sores cause irritation and an itching sensation that refuses to subside. This is why ice works like a miracle on cold sores. Ice reduces the swelling and soothes the irritation, which, in turn, will allow the cold sores to heal. So, apply ice directly to the affected area for best and quick results.
    • Coconut Oil– Coconut oil is known to keep the skin healthy and glowing. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that coconut oil can be used as a 1-day cold sore treatment. Coconut oil is antimicrobial in nature, and the triglycerides are known to kill viruses and began the healing process right away.

    These home remedies for cold sores are free from side-effects and can help cure cold sores quickly. If it persists, it is advisable to seek the right medical help.

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  • Here’s why nurse practitioner programs are popular

    Over time, scenarios have changed with respect to the common misconceptions about nurses and their profession. Nurses enjoy certain privileges and equal responsibilities when it comes to the medical practice. They are able to assess during their diagnosis and even treat medical conditions, owing to nurse practitioner programs.

    These programs were introduced mainly introduced to educate nurses, focusing mainly on disease prevention and promoting good health. Nurse practitioner programs have enabled them to serve as independent healthcare providers with services which mainly include cost effective health care solution for all.

    There are a number of reasons why people would opt for nurse practitioner programs, such as:

    Challenging: Medical school is no walk in the park, even for those who are aspiring to become nurses. They have to study and prepare themselves physically and mentally in order to fulfill their dream of serving people. You can either opt for a master’s degree or doctorate degree in any nurse practitioner programs with an aptitude for various science courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry among others. The course load for theoretical and practical subjects is monumental, with each program having its minimum criteria that need to be fulfilled.

    Private practice: Generally, nurses work under the supervision of a general physician or medical practitioner. But this is not the case for people who have completed nurse practitioner programs. They can work on their own without having to report to a medical supervisor. This is one of the major reasons why medical students pursue nurse practitioner programs.

    Good return on investment: The main motive of a medical professional is not money because they are in the healthcare industry to save lives and not worry about the compensation. But today nurse practitioners are compensated handsomely, which is more than enough to cover any student loans and the education cost they might have incurred while studying for the program. However, the compensation and added benefits will differ depending on the types of practitioners.

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  • 6 best gas reward credit cards you need to know

    Gas has been a major budget category for many households. Most of the citizens in our country rely on gas-powered cars to get around. Hence, we are always searching for ways to get money on gas. General-purpose credit cards provide cash back rewards at gas station purchases while other cards provide cash back on gas refueling.

    Now, this does not mean your rewards are only valid for future gas purchases. These best gas reward credit cards let you rake in points, which you can use for other purchases. Here are some of the best gas reward credit cards that you can consider if you use the car for daily commute.

    Chase Freedom®
    This credit card lets you earn $150 as a cashback bonus when you make a $500 purchase. There is no annual fee while the transaction fee is flat 3%. It offers an introductory APR of 0% and a balance transfer APR for 15 months. The Chase Freedom® credit card pays 5% on your gas purchases every three months. Other benefits include protection insurance covers on all purchases made with Chase Freedom® card for up to 120 days with a $500 claim limit.

    Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
    This is one of the best gas reward credit cards that offer 3% unlimited cashback on purchases on gas stations across the country without any spending caps. The card also allows you to earn 1% on all non-supermarket and non-gas purchases. However, it does incur $95 as an annual fee. It also offers a host of fringe benefits cardholder-only events and returns protection which compensates its user for up to $300 per item for returns that are rejected by merchants.

    Discover it® Chrome
    Although a general-purpose rewards credit card, it offers 5% cash back and on purchases of up to $1500 on all purchases on a quarterly basis. It also offers gas station purchases rebates at least one quarter every year and sometimes more based on your credit history. Some perks include Freeze It feature that turns off account features such as cash advances with a single click.

    PenFed Platinum Cash Rewards Plus Visa® Card
    Short for Pentagon Federal Credit Union, the PenFed Platinum Cash Rewards Plus Visa® Card offers one of the most generous gas benefits around. There are no annual fee earnings, and the cash is automatically awarded each month. It offers $100 when you spend at least $1500 in the first 90 days. There are no cash advances, foreign transaction. Late payments cost around $10 to $25 depending on the balance size. The card membership entitles you for $100,000 in travel protection insurance.

    Citi ThankYou® Premier Card
    One of the best gas reward credit cards, this card offers great gas benefits. Users can earn up to three points per $1 spent on all purchases across the country. More importantly, it also offers three points on gas purchases. With no foreign transaction fees. The users pay $95 as annual fee which is waived in the first year. With no intro APR, the Citi® Private Pass® program offers early sales for concerts, VIP access, Sports events and other entertainment. It has personalized concierge services including 24/7 travel and event booking.

    Sunoco Rewards Credit Card
    This gas reward credit card is one of the best as it offers powerful gas rewards like $0.05 off per gallon of gas purchase. There is no annual fee or foreign transaction fee and cash advance fee is greater of $10 or 5%

    Before you apply for a gas credit card application, make sure you use it to earn maximum points to purchase fuel at discounted rates. Consider pairing your gas card with a general credit card to have a wider range of rewards.

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  • 2016 Audi A6: Features to look out for

    Are you planning to buy the luxury sedan, but have been wondering what to expect from the choices present the luxury auto market? We recommend going through the features of 2016 Audi A6 before making your final purchase. Here is what you can expect in your future luxury ride.

    Basic specification:

    • 3.0-Liter TDI clean diesel engine – The luxury sedan is powered by four high performing engines. These engines offer up to 25 city/38 highway mpg. It has the diesel that offers an amazing 428 lb-ft of torque that could be served up immediately.
    • Refined interior – The 2016 Audi A6 has a quiet, modern, luxurious and elegant interior. The interior is refreshed with a bigger dial to choose media and others. MMI infotainment and the navigational system has received an update in this 2016 model. It also takes some advice from Google maps. Above all, the Beaufort wood trim and aluminum accents are the most pleasing sights.
    • Redesigned exterior– The exterior is changed from the previous year model. The fronts-and rear-ends are redesigned, got a mid-cycle refresh, new headlight design, redesigned bumper. All in all, the refined exterior gives the A6 model a fresh, sharp and impressive appearance. At the back, LED taillights have got a sleeked look.
    • Standard equipment – It has all standard equipment that you can expect to be present in any midsize sedan. You can found these in the standard equipment list. Still, let us tell you what this list will include. Leather seats, audio capabilities, headlights, Bluetooth phone and seat memory. It is unlike BMW and Mercedes-Benz that require an extra box in the case of leather seats.
    • Optional equipment – Other equipment come optional. These are the 2.0 liter 4-cylinder, a V8 and two V6 engines, 7 or 9-speed automatic transmissions that are mated and handle gear changed timely. However, A6 optional equipment can cost high but would offer best of the services. Other items are MMI Information and navigational system, cruise control and safety systems.
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  • 4 popular brands for buying office furniture

    When it comes to office furniture, ordering quality merchandise is the key. Ordering cheap office furniture can cost you a lot more in the long run in view of its short shelf-life and repair expenses. Cheap quality furniture can also meddle with the productivity at your workplace. It is apt to base your purchase decisions on practicality. For example, the storage units of roll top desks need not be too small or impractical for the nature of your work. The chairs need to be able to have an average weight-bearing capacity, and the desk units need to be smooth. If you are concerned about all these parameters, here is a list of top brands for buying office desks and furniture that you must go through:

    Ikea
    This popular brand hosts a vivid variety of office furniture that is made up of quality materials. If you want to purchase furniture for your office at an affordable price range, Ikea is the best choice for you. The design options are numerous and will suit every taste and requirement of your office.

    Best Buys
    This online store is an excellent website to score deals on office furniture. The website and the store features many furniture options ranging from office desks to conference tables. The sales staff is knowledgeable and they assist you well to make the perfect purchase decision.

    AAA Furniture Wholesalers
    This unique website allows you to purchase fine furniture at affordable prices. You can also opt for bulk buy discount on furniture. This can be easily done either by ordering the office desks and other office furniture you need in bulk amounts or by opening a trade account with a furniture supplier. This top brand offers great deals for bulk purchase of office furniture as well.

    Overstock.com
    Overstock.com enthralls its customers with a wide variety of furniture options it hosts on its website. A large number of top brands showcase their office furniture collections on Overstock.com, for customers to buy. The website also runs deals on furniture from time to time. It is the right place if you are looking for quality furniture at competitive pricing.

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  • Benefits of a reverse mortgage for seniors

    While everybody understands how a mortgage works, there is still confusion revolving around the concept of a reverse mortgage. A lot of financial experts believe that a reverse mortgage is not advisable for financially vulnerable seniors. However, there are reasons why a reverse mortgage for seniors is considered a good idea. Read on to know the benefits of a reverse mortgage.

    What is a reverse mortgage?
    A reverse mortgage is a loan for citizens who are aged 62 years and above. These loans give senior citizens a chance to convert their home equity into cash. Also referred to as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures these loans, and they come with no monthly mortgage payments. The lender may pay the homeowner in the form of a lump sum, monthly payments (for as long as the borrower is residing at home), periodic advances through a line of credit, or various combinations of the options mentioned above.

    The eligibility criteria are also quite simple as compared to a conventional mortgage. Any homeowner who is above the age of 62 is eligible for availing of a reverse mortgage for seniors.

    What are the benefits of getting a reverse mortgage?
    A reverse mortgage for seniors has various advantages. The top reasons to get it are as follows:

    The ownership remains with you
    The only thing you need to take care of in order to let the homeownership remain with you is to comply with the terms and conditions of the loan, pay the property taxes on time, and maintain the homeowner’s insurance.

    There is no hassle of a monthly mortgage payment
    As opposed to a conventional mortgage account, you get funds paid to you on a monthly basis without the hassle of counting it in your budget.

    Reverse mortgage protects against the real estate fluctuations
    If the loan price increases due to a change in the market, you are still insured because these loans are backed by the FHA.

    You may choose any method of disbursement
    As mentioned above, these payments may be made to you in different forms as per your convenience, thereby making it easier for you to collect the funds.

    However, before getting reverse mortgages for seniors, weigh the pros and cons and the terms and conditions of the lender to avoid any hassles in the long run.

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  • 12 easy bathroom cleaning tips to try today

    With frequent use, the bathroom can accumulate germs and bacteria, increasing the risk of health conditions like urinary tract infections and salmonellosis. Hence, bathroom cleaning is a crucial everyday household chore. Luckily, the market has various products and equipment that facilitate easy cleaning and improved hygiene in the bathroom. Besides using these products, you can try home remedies to eliminate dirt and germs. Here are some bathroom cleaning tips for a spick-and-span bathroom.

    Use a pumice stone to remove hard stains
    Hard stains spoil the bathroom’s appeal and are often difficult to remove. One helpful way to eliminate them is by rubbing them with pumice stones. Remember, the toilet bowl and the area around it are more prone to accumulating bacteria and germs over time and are typical hotspots for hard stains. You can use a pumice stone to clean these areas and remove stubborn stains.

    Use different sponges for every surface
    A sponge is an excellent absorbent of dust, bacteria, and other tiny particles. But using the same sponge to clean different surfaces only transfers the accumulated dust from one place to another. To avoid this, use different sponges for cleaning different bathroom surfaces.

    Clean the toothbrush holder regularly
    According to a study by the National Sanitation Foundation, the toothbrush holder is the third grimiest and germ-filled area in a home. Toothbrushes are typically wet when placed into the holder after use. Consequently, they tend to drip inside the holder, causing it to become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Hence, cleaning the toothbrush holder should be a regular part of your sanitation routine.

    Use vinegar and baking soda to unblock the basin
    Many homeowners purchase expensive bleaches and call plumbers frequently to unblock the basin or sink. However, it is unnecessary to spend on the process, as vinegar and baking soda can do the trick. To try this remedy, pour half a cup of vinegar into the sink, followed by half a box of baking soda. Then plug the drain and hold it in place till the fizzing stops. Next, pour some boiling water into the sink after half an hour if required. This is a hassle-free, time-saving, and cost-effective method to unblock the sink drain.

    Use different cleaning products for different surfaces
    Each bathroom surface has a different texture and, thus, a distinct cleaning requirement. For example, mild cleaners work best on bathtubs and tiles, whereas abrasive cleaners work best to remove scum or mold on durable surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on delicate surfaces like glass, plastic, and ceramic.

    Wipe cleansers immediately from surfaces
    Spray-and-go cleaners are highly effective in removing dirt from surfaces. However, leaving them on for long can cause them to turn sticky and accumulate bacteria and germs. To avoid these issues, wipe off spray-and-go cleansers within two minutes.

    Use lemon and baking soda for the toilet bowl
    The key to a spotless toilet bowl does not lie in expensive cleaning products on the market shelves. Mixing lemon (or vinegar) with baking soda forms a highly acidic solution. This solution can remove hard stains and bacteria accumulated in the toilet bowl and even the sink or bathtub. As mentioned, you can also use a pumice stone to remove stains in the bowl.

    Remember to clean the exhaust fan
    The exhaust fan helps eliminate foul smells and purify the air. However, it does the opposite when unclean, blocking air from passing through the duct and leading to mold and mildew in the bathroom. So, do not forget the exhaust fan the next time you begin cleaning the bathroom.

    Wash the shower curtain
    The shower curtains are often neglected during the bathroom cleaning process. Since the bathroom contains high moisture levels, mildew and mold may accumulate over their surface. Hence, experts recommend washing shower curtains at least four times a year.

    Clean the toilet brush thoroughly
    Not cleaning bathroom equipment can result in the accumulation of bacteria and germs over them, making the cleaning process futile. The toilet brush should be soaked in a bleach or ammonia solution for an hour, preferably after every cleaning session.

    Clean the corners
    The corners of the bathroom trap large proportions of dust and dirt; hence, cleaning them is essential to facilitate a spick-and-span bathroom. When cleaning the corners, use narrow brushes with long handles that can easily maneuver through small spaces.

    Avoid cluttering the bathroom
    Clutter leads to confusion and chaos, which can make cleaning cumbersome. So, organize your bathroom products and de-clutter the space before cleaning. As you clean, dispose unused of products that take up unnecessary space on the shelves.

    Today, many cleaning brands offer discount coupons on their products to attract customers and ensure cost-effectiveness. Clorox is one such brand with safe and practical solutions to facilitate a clean and germ-free bathroom. Some of their best products include the Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner, the Disinfecting ToiletWand® Disposable Toilet Cleaning System, and the Clorox Clinical™ Germicidal Cleaner + Bleach. You can save considerably by signing up for Clorox bathroom cleaning coupons. These can be accessed by creating an account on the official Clorox website.

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