The invention of the electric blankets is a technological advancement that has made life easy for millions across the country. Some people wonder if electric blankets are worth considering. They can come in handy if you always feel cold or when you want the additional warmth. A simple warm blanket might not provide you with the comfort and cushiony feel of electric blankets. Yes, there are wires, but the heating that the electric blanket provides you is worth it.
Most manufacturers provide you with reliable electric blankets that are safe to use. Earlier, there used to be a problem of overheating, which has been curbed in the latest electric blankets in the market now. In addition, extra features have made electric blankets all the more sophisticated and safe for use. Here are our top picks.
Best electric blankets in the market
Velvet Plush Heated Blanket by Sunbeam
This top-rated product is soft and cushiony. It heats quickly and has the ability to automatically adjust as per your ideal temperature. The blanket comes with impressive 20 heat settings and an automatic on/off setting. The dual control helps you and your partner choose your setting separately as per your need. The blanket is dryer and washer safe.
MicroPlush Sherpa Electric Heated Blanket by Biddeford
This heated blanket comes with 10 heat settings. It automatically shuts down after 10 hours to ensure maximum saving. You can select your ideal temperature and the blanket will consistently remain at that level. It heats quickly and comes with a digital display that makes it convenient. The temperature range is vast. You can wash the blanket in your washing machine.
Microfleece Low Voltage Electric Blanket by SoftHeat
This is the best energy-saving blanket in the market now as it utilizes only 25 volts. The king- and queen-size blankets come with dual controls that are easy to understand. Due to the placement of the wiring, even heating takes place. There is preheat function, but it takes a longer time to heat. Their blankets are wash and dryer safe.
Luxury Plush Warming Blanket by Serta
This product helps you save energy too. It uses low-voltage mechanism. There is a backlit display that helps you adjust when it is dark. The wires are fitted well and are thin. This ensures you do not feel the wires when you pull over the blanket. This helps you sleep peacefully without any disturbance. There is a preheat option as well.
Best Electric Blanket Throws
Listed below are some of the latest and best throws available in the market today.
Microplush Heated Throw by Sunbeam
This throw is made with a plush polyester that is extremely soft. It has the ability to keep you warm for a little longer even when you turn the heating off. It comes with three levels of settings: low, medium, and high. It shuts off after 3 hours. It is available in 18 colors and performs marvelously. It is easy to use and comes with ThermoFine Warming mechanism.
Reversible Heated Throw by Sunbeam
This heated throw by Sunbeam helps you stay cozy on your couch. The throw is extremely fluffy and soft. It has a heat sensing methodology of knowing when to adjust the temperature. The cord measures 6 feet, which is helpful if you have power source far from your sofa. The top of the throw is made of mink, while the lower part is made of sherpa.
When selecting electric blankets and throws you need to consider its usage and the type. While most blankets do come in various sizes, others might be limited. If you do not intend to use them for long, it is better to reconsider splurging a lot. However, always choose quality electric blankets so that you get to sleep comfortably with consistent warmth all through the night. Sunbeam’s blankets and throws are known for their fantastic performance which makes them great. Warm up your winter night with any of these quality products and give yourself a refreshing sleep.
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High blood pressure chart and its meaning
Read moreWhen a doctor takes your blood pressure reading, he gives a fraction. This fraction is the blood pressure reading. The number on top is known as systolic pressure and the number on the bottom is the diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure signifies the amount of pressure in the arteries during the contraction of heart muscles. Diastolic pressure signifies the amount of pressure of the heart muscle in between the beats. Both the numbers are important for the determination of the health of your heart.
Normal reading
The normal reading for blood pressure should be 120/80. The systolic pressure must be in the range 90-120 and the diastolic pressure must be in the range 60-80. The American Heart Association considers blood pressure to be normal only when it is in the range. Both the systolic and diastolic readings should be within the above-stated ranges.Blood pressure readings are usually given in millimeters of mercury. That is, a normal reading would be known as 120/80 mmHg. If you have a normal reading, then you do not need any medical intervention. In order to do so, you must follow a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, balanced diet, and weight management can be of great help.
Prehypertension
If your blood pressure reading is more than 120/80 mmHg, then you have to be alert and switch to a healthier lifestyle. You are suffering from prehypertension when the systolic pressure is between the range of 120-139 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is between the ranges of 80- 89 mmHg.The above-stated numbers are not considered as high blood pressure. But they are beyond the normal range. There is a good chance of prehypertension turning into high blood pressure. You are at a high risk of a stroke and other heart diseases. Pre-hypertension does not require any medication, but you have to start leading a healthy life. A balanced diet, weight loss, and daily exercising will help you bring your blood pressure down to the normal range.
Stage 1 of hypertension
You will be diagnosed with high blood pressure when the systolic pressure is in the range 140-159 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is in the range 90-99 mmHg. This is the stage 1 of hypertension or high blood pressure. Stage 1 of hypertension is usually diagnosed when the blood pressure reading remains high over a long period of time. Your doctor will help you to keep track of your blood pressure reading. He/she will prescribe medications if your blood pressure does not come down after starting a healthy lifestyle.Stage 2 of hypertension
The second stage of hypertension is when the blood pressure reading shows the systolic pressure as 160 or more and the diastolic pressure is 100 or more. The doctor will prescribe one or two medications to bring down the high blood pressure to the normal level. But you must never rely only on the medications. A change in your daily lifestyle is always recommended to keep your blood pressure in check.Hypertensive crisis
If the blood pressure reading is more than 180/110 mmHg, then it signifies a serious health issue that needs to be checked immediately. You must go in for an emergency check-up if your blood pressure is that high. It is best to visit the doctor immediately, if you are also experiencing chest pain, sweating, dizziness, blood in urine, and other difficulties. -
Ways to reduce high Triglycerides in your diet
Read moreWhat are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are a type of fat present in your blood that the body uses for energy. But the excess of triglycerides in your body are termed as bad cholesterol (LDL), paves the way for heart disease, stroke, and many other heart-related diseases.How to cut down the intake of Triglycerides?
Every meal you eat should have a balanced intake of all nutrients. The macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, and fats) and micronutrients (Vitamins and minerals). Excess of anything is unhealthy and leads to different health problems. Triglycerides are the major cause of heart problems and it causes thickening of the artery walls. High triglycerides (levels above 1000 mg/dl) can lead to acute pancreatitis. The high amount of triglycerides is present in sugary foods, packaged food, and commercially baked goods. Hence, reduce the intake of Trans fats and saturated fats.Diet chart to reduce high Triglycerides
Incorporate fish in your diet:
Fish are a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids that reduce the levels of triglyceride present in your blood and helps to keep your heart and brain healthy. Salmon, co, and tuna are types of cold water fish that has the power to reduce the levels of triglycerides. Vegans or non-fish lovers can take omega 3 fatty acid supplements.Soy protein is beneficial:
Soy protein works 12 times faster than animal protein to reduce the number of triglycerides. A research proved that 25 grams of soy protein a day as a part of low diet will reduce the risks of heart-related disease. It also controls the levels of serum cholesterol, LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) and triglycerides. Soybeans, tofu, and soy milk have rich soy protein in them.Consume Monounsaturated fats:
Instead of your regular cooking oil like sunflower oil, coconut oil, palm oil or rice bran oil choose olive oil or walnut oil. These oils have monounsaturated fats that reduce the lipoprotein levels. Nuts and avocados are also rich sources of monounsaturated fats.Fiber foods:
Food that is rich in fiber, like the beans, legumes, peas, lentils. Nuts, like almonds, cashew, walnuts, pecans. Cereals and citrus fruits are must in your diet as it absorbs the fat or sugar present in your small intestine and helps in reducing the triglyceride levels.Reduce the intake of alcohol:
Alcohol has a high amount of sugar and calories. Regular intake of alcohol stores triglycerides in your fat cells. Hence, avoid alcohol as much as possible.Do not skip exercise:
Regular exercise is necessary for your body to reduce the triglyceride levels. Plan your day, so that you can spare at least 20 minutes in the morning for your exercise or brisk walks. Simple push-ups pull-ups and squats can help you stay healthy.