Articles from Brandpoint

(BPT) - Does the phrase "root canal" make you feel uneasy and anxious? Root canal treatments have an unfairly earned bad reputation. Misinformation and misconceptions give a false impression that root canals are painful, dangerous and unnecessary. Root canal myths may cause patients to question the safety of this endodontic procedure and put off necessary treatment.

(BPT) - If you are pregnant, or are considering becoming pregnant, you may want to know everything you can about your baby. Often, this process will include prenatal screening.

(BPT) - Your vision is a vital part of how you experience the world, like seeing vibrant colors and the details of daily life, and protecting it is of the utmost importance.

(BPT) - Whether you're an aspiring athlete, weekend warrior or just love activities that get your heart racing, you may discover exercise can affect your skin.

(BPT) - February is all about matters of the heart. Of course, there's Valentine's Day, a time to express affection for those we love, but it's also American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about the leading cause of death in the U.S. - heart disease. Understanding the risks, as well as steps for prevention, is especially important for older adults, as the risk of heart disease increases after age 65. Lifestyle improvements like regular exercise, a balanced diet, reduced stress, and a greater focus on health can have a significant impact, not only on heart disease but on general well-being. AARP members have access to tools and benefits that make it easy to give your heart some love.

(BPT) - By Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS

(BPT) - By Sarah Acton, Chief Customer Officer, BILL

(BPT) - Bathrooms are more than just a necessity of modern living. It's true that they're practical spaces, but practicality doesn't mean you have to sacrifice luxury.

(BPT) - As you age, your needs change, and that includes your skincare. Gone are the oily, acne-prone skin issues of youth. Instead, you're dealing with dry, dull skin and the onset of lines and wrinkles.

(BPT) - With the cost of food on everyone's minds (from social media to campaign promises), we're all searching for ways to ease the hit to our wallets while still doing our best to provide wholesome food to our families. Maybe you want to reduce your intake of processed, packaged, pricey items by making yummy food yourself, but you worry that it will cost more in time and money. Here are a few reasons why being sustainable pays off.

(BPT) - For patients like Michele Rayes, life with hypoparathyroidism (hypopara) had been a constant uphill battle. Reflecting on her initial diagnosis, Rayes described it as a profound turning point in her life: "Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a tumultuous journey that would ultimately change the course - and the purpose - of my life forever."

(BPT) - February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to reflect on heart-healthy habits and incorporate positive changes into your daily routine. One of the easiest ways to support your heart health is by adding more Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that support brain health, heart function and overall well-being. They help reduce inflammation in the body, lower the risk of chronic diseases - and even play a role in maintaining healthy skin. Omega-3s are also known to help improve mood and reduce stress, making them a powerful addition to a balanced diet.

(BPT) - The 2024 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory shed light on the immense amount of stress parents are under. Part of this is due to the pressure that comes with raising children, working and wanting to be a high performer in every aspect of life. With the new year in full swing, now is a great time to make small, attainable resolutions that have the power to lower stress levels, enhance well-being and improve family dynamics.

(BPT) - As a professional communicator, words have always come easily to María. That is until the diagnoses of two different rare kidney diseases that left María speechless.

(BPT) - Michel, a psychiatric nurse from Southern California, has always been someone who is deeply committed to helping others take control of their health. He didn't realize that one day he would be the one needing care.

(BPT) - However you use AI, its adoption across organizations of all sizes - including nonprofits - has proven to help people increase their productivity and impact at work.

(BPT) - As winter turns into spring, it's time for gardeners to consider which plants they'll cultivate in planters, pots and gardens. If you're in the midst of planning your garden and need inspiration, Green Thumb Award-winning products are a great place to get inspiration.

(BPT) - Do you live with persistent, moderate-to-severe asthma, COPD, allergies, eczema or hives? Inflammation is often a major factor in the severity of your symptoms. It could also be a factor if your condition is hard to treat. When inflammation is severe and causes difficult-to-control symptoms, it's called Type 2 inflammation.

(BPT) - For years, 69-year-old Gail from Houston has started her mornings with devotion and exercise. Her love for family and community shines through in everything she does as she dedicates her time to volunteering, reading, mentoring members of her church group, and nurturing her garden.

(BPT) - Navigating the rising cost of prescriptions can feel like a challenge, but savvy seniors know there's a smarter way to manage healthcare expenses in 2025. The new Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) offers a simple, stress-free solution to help retirees protect both their wallets and their health.

(BPT) - Eager to discover the latest and greatest technology? If so, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the highlight of the year, and the 2025 offerings were bolder than ever. Consumers seeking innovative solar solutions will want to explore highlights from Jackery, a leader in reliable, innovative renewable energy solutions, which presented cutting-edge products for the home and outdoors.

(BPT) - Gathering with friends and family to cheer on your home team makes for an unforgettable watch party. To take your "home-gating" up a notch, focus on what everyone loves - plenty of snacks and beverages to fuel guests from kickoff to final play.

(BPT) - Welcome to 2025! This new year is full of opportunities to improve your life and rethink your priorities. Do you know what goals you want to achieve this year?

(BPT) - By Satya Jonnalagadda, PhD, MBA, RDN

(BPT) - Quick, what's a semiconductor? You probably have a vague understanding - they're in computers, right? You may have also heard about semiconductor shortages slowing automobile production.

(BPT) - Research shows that by the start of February, up to 94% of people abandon the New Year's resolutions they made. In fact, two separate dates have been coined "Quitter's Day" and "Ditch Your Resolution Day." Research shows that resolutions don't typically work, but commitments do.

(BPT) - Looking forward to your children's college journey? It's an exciting time, full of possibilities and dreams for the future, but it also has some challenges. Recently, inflation across the board - including tuition, room and board, and more - is impacting how families plan to fund this key investment in their child's future. In a recent College Ave survey, over half of parents of undergraduates (57%) said inflation was affecting their financial planning for college, and 62% said college costs were more than their family anticipated.

(BPT) - Whether you're having a routine procedure such as a colonoscopy or something more complex like heart surgery, your medical team is committed to ensuring a safe and successful outcome. But you also can play an important role in making your procedure as smooth and effective as possible. Do you have a health condition such as diabetes or kidney disease? Are you a smoker or over age 65 dealing with memory issues? Maybe you use cannabis? These and other issues can affect your anesthesia care plan, and are important to share with your anesthesiologist before your procedure.

(BPT) - Knowledge is one of the most valuable tools when faced with a cancer diagnosis. Given that one in two men and one in three women are expected to be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetimes, it's hard to ignore how important knowledge is when understanding a diagnosis and deciding the appropriate path forward. This remains true for renal cell carcinoma, or RCC. While some people with kidney cancer may experience symptoms, like blood in urine, lower back pain on one side, and a mass on the side or lower back, others may only have limited symptoms such as mild hip pain.

(BPT) - Sponsored by GSK

(BPT) - By Rob Williams, Managing Director, Financial Planning, Retirement Income and Wealth Management, Schwab Center for Financial Research

(BPT) - The kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where you gather with loved ones for meals and conversations and make memories and traditions. To achieve these connections (while still making delicious meals), warmth and welcome are key.

(BPT) - Kyra Williams is a wife, mother of two and English professor who leads an active life in Baytown, Texas. However, this active life took a backseat when she moved from Little Rock, Arkansas, to Texas in 11th grade. At the time, the move to a new town and high school left her feeling down and stopping some activities, like dance and cheerleading, that she once enjoyed.

(BPT) - If you're planning a family trip for the next school break or long weekend, how about a destination offering unique attractions for the whole family? Whether you're traveling when there's still snow on the ground or after spring has sprung, there's a wealth of fun attractions and activities to explore in Western Massachusetts.

(BPT) - The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting towards AI-driven solutions, clean technology and highly-efficient systems tailored to diverse regional needs. Embracing this shift, LG Electronics (LG) is leveraging its outstanding core technologies, AI and intimate knowledge of different industries to deliver HVAC solutions for a smarter, more efficient future.

(BPT) - Cervical Health Awareness Month in January serves as an important reminder that cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can actually be prevented with regular screening. Thanks to the Pap test, and then the addition of HPV testing and HPV vaccination, the number of people getting cervical cancer has significantly decreased for more than 70 years.

(BPT) - A new year is a great opportunity to develop better habits and improve your health and wellness. Perhaps that involves revamping your workout routine or investing in a skincare regimen. As you start to think about the new year, make sure to include a comprehensive eye exam at the top of your list.

(BPT) - Whether you're in the middle of your career, starting a new job or looking ahead to retirement, financial planning may be one of those items on your to-do list that keeps getting pushed aside for more pressing and immediate things. Regardless of where you may be on your financial journey, it's important to lean on experienced professionals who can help you make the right choices, at the right time, to assist with things like banking, investments or business planning.

(BPT) - Remember when digital payment transactions used to take three to five business days? Even transferring funds between accounts seemingly took forever. And, if you were splitting the bill with someone at a restaurant, there was nothing fast about it. You'd give them a check ... and then it would take three to five days to clear. It seems so antiquated now. In today's digital world, that kind of time lag simply isn't acceptable to many people.

(BPT) - As families settle back into their normal routines after a busy holiday season, deciding on and cooking dinner during the week can feel daunting. Luckily, Noodles & Company, the nationwide fast-casual chain, is bringing back a fan-favorite dish that evokes nostalgia and craveable comfort-perfect for those seeking speed and reliability, all without the hassle of cooking.

(BPT) - The high cost of tuition in traditional higher education settings leads many potential students to question the value of that investment. Whether you've just graduated high school or you're a working adult aiming to enhance your career, you may be wondering what you can expect if you decide to advance your education with an undergraduate or graduate degree or certificate.

(BPT) - If you're a small business owner, you may be looking for top talent in the new year. A new survey by LinkedIn finds 66% of small businesses in the U.S. are planning to hire more in 2025 than they did in 2024. It signals good news for the market, and for your business, but with an increase in hiring comes increased challenges.

(BPT) - Wave Season isn't just trendy travel terminology, but how savvy vacationers maximize their dollars when booking their big trips! Starting just after the holidays from January through March, Wave Season is the cruise industry's version of a Black Friday or Cyber Monday sale. As an already cost-effective way to see the world, cruise lines and travel providers are offering even more opportunities for deals, letting passengers customize their trips with new activities, new dining experiences, and even new destinations. Whether this is your first time exploring booking a trip during Wave Season or you're a seasoned voyager on the high seas, there are numerous ways to save before you set sail. In fact, AARP members can utilize an array of benefits and discounts that can help curate the perfect vacation.

(BPT) - If you live in a home or apartment with minimal kitchen space due to its wall and cabinet configurations, you probably know how challenging it is to replace major appliances. For example, most newer refrigerators are designed with larger kitchens in mind, so they simply won't fit in smaller kitchen spaces. This leaves you without many options unless you're willing to undergo a complete kitchen renovation.

(BPT) - Energy efficiency isn't a trendy buzzword - it's quickly becoming the new normal for everyday Americans across the country. Beginning this fall and throughout next year, consumers will be able to save up to $1,680 on new, energy-efficient home appliances through a federal program called the Home Electrification and Appliances Rebate (HEAR) program.

(BPT) - "I was out of breath all the time."

(BPT) - The next generation of energy technologies is coming online, delivering energy that is more affordable, reliable and cleaner than ever before. But what happens to the older generation of power plants as they reach the end of their operational lives? What if those closures directly affected your livelihood - or the economy of your town? This is the challenge facing the power industry today. Nearly a quarter of coal plants in the U.S. are scheduled to be shuttered by 2029, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

(BPT) - With the growing trend toward creating outdoor living spaces, building an outdoor kitchen has never been more popular-or more attainable. Whether you love entertaining or simply enjoy dining outside, a well-designed outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into the ultimate gathering spot.

(BPT) - Eager to escape the cold and experience summer vibes this winter? Now is the time to visit one of the winter boat shows taking place across the country and start planning for warmer days ahead soaking up fun and relaxation on a boat.

(BPT) - Retirement is a journey, and every milestone counts: New Empower research shows that Americans across generations are making progress toward retirement, from building emergency funds to paying off debt. While each generation faces unique financial challenges, many share a strong sense of optimism about their financial futures.

(BPT) - As we turn the page to a new year, many of us are writing our list of resolutions. While grand goals like "lose weight" or "eat healthier" often take center stage, these can quickly feel like a mountain too steep to climb, leaving many of us overwhelmed before we even begin. This year, it's time to flip the script on those common lofty resolutions and, instead, prioritize small, purposeful changes that can offer real and tangible health benefits.

(BPT) - Stuck indoors? Winter is the perfect time to address indoor issues that affect the functionality, safety, appearance and value of your home. One great example: A basement or other room with unlevel flooring, new concrete floors or pre-cast slabs with unacceptable finishes - or existing concrete floors with damaged finishes.

(BPT) - For many, winter is a time for ice skating, cozy family gatherings, and hitting the slopes, but for the 28 million people in the U.S. living with asthma, winter can pose unique challenges. Colder weather can mean airway irritation and tightening, increasing the risk of asthma attacks and making this season much trickier to navigate.

(BPT) - Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. They are at the heart of communities, creating jobs, driving innovation, and cultivating local pride. In fact, small businesses make up 99.9% of all companies and employ nearly half of the private workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

(BPT) - Style is an expression of one's individuality, rooted in the confidence to trust personal instincts and create a world of beauty, rather than pursuing fleeting trends. It's about celebrating all the nuances that define uniqueness - from the fashion one wears and the food they savor, to the way they design their home. True style is singular, impossible to replicate, and utterly incomparable. Brizo® Kitchen & Bath Company exemplifies this credo, setting the standard for style and innovation through every collection.

(BPT) - When it comes to goal setting for the new year ahead, why not put prepping your home for unexpected life moments top of the list? After all, your home is the center of your life, and the place you most want to feel safe and secure - especially during severe weather. Take time to think about ways you can be sure your home is better prepared - which is also the best way to protect yourself and your family - as you look forward to the new year.

(BPT) - As he approached his 40th birthday, Andrew began experiencing strange symptoms - fatigue, bone pain and frequent trips to the bathroom. Though unsettling, "I didn't think much of them and chalked the symptoms up to things that tend to happen in middle age," recalls the attorney and father of three. "I felt like I was constantly experiencing a low-level allergic reaction: my skin was itchy, and my eyes were watery and itchy. I felt uncomfortable in my own skin."

(BPT) - Transforming unused areas of a home into comfortable, functional spaces can be easier than one might think thanks to modern heating and cooling solutions. Whether it's a sunroom that's too cold to enjoy in the winter, a garage that turns into a sauna during the summer, or a basement that's always chilly, the right systems can help create a comfortable environment in every corner of a home. These innovative solutions improve comfort while maximizing a home's usability and value.

(BPT) - With one year coming to a close and another about to begin, this is the perfect time to reflect on how you've been blessed this year, as well as ways to best live your values going forward. For example, did you know a simple act of generosity today can grow to have a life-changing impact for a family in need in the new year? To mark the end of the year, consider giving a gift that keeps on giving - and growing - throughout the year ahead.

(BPT) - American drivers are turning over a new leaf when it comes to car care. Hankook Tire's latest Gauge Index Survey highlights a renewed commitment to proactive vehicle maintenance and tire replacements, driven by a combined desire for increased preparedness and to protect long-term investments. With preventive maintenance leading 2025 driving vehicle resolutions, here are top goals when it comes to driving habits and priorities for the year ahead.

(BPT) - The new year means resolutions, reflection and recharging. It's a fresh start, a time when new, healthier habits seem possible. This year, along with eating healthier and exercising more, prioritize your mental wellness. Hit reset and take steps to clear your mind to feel focused, energized and ready to tackle the new year ahead.

(BPT) - Every year, roughly 20-30% of older Americans head to warmer climates for the colder winter months. Snowbirds are often retirees on fixed incomes, though flexible work environments now provide more opportunities for anyone to spend several months escaping the chill. Whether on a fixed income or an empty nester with disposable income, consumers are interested in saving money where they can. With this in mind, snowbirds can look to their AARP membership to take advantage of relevant discounts and offerings as they fluff their feathers and get ready for takeoff.

(BPT) - The new year is a good time to reset. From a fresh start on lifestyle choices, hobbies or pursuits, to the less exciting - but no less important - aspects of life, like memberships, contracts and even health insurance. Health insurance deductibles reset in the new year, so it's a good idea to keep that in mind as you plan for healthcare expenses. Any changes made to your health insurance plan during open enrollment go into effect as well.

(BPT) - From wearables to apps, New Year's fitness resolutions are getting a tech boost that's catching on, with T-Mobile customers spending 23% more time on average on fitness-related apps in the last year.

(BPT) - With all the talk about the economy lately, how did the 2024 holiday shopping season shake out? Were people buying? If so, how did their spending compare to past years? What and where were they buying?

(BPT) - For those living with paralysis and their loved ones, receiving sufficient support, meaningful connection and useful information are all crucial elements in order to thrive. Thanks to the leadership and vision of Dana Reeve, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) opened its doors in 2002, and continues today to serve as a free, comprehensive, international source of informational support for people living with paralysis and their caregivers.

(BPT) - With the weather turning colder, you may think there's not much more you can do to protect your outdoor surfaces from damage caused by the elements. The good news is, it's not too late to ensure that any unprotected patios, driveways, pool decks, paths, sidewalks or other exterior concrete surfaces on your property are safe from flaking, cracking, spalling or staining. Depending on the current climate conditions where you live, there still may be plenty of time for you to tackle this crucial outdoor project before the worst winter weather.

(BPT) - Finding the perfect gift for all your loved ones can be daunting. However, choosing a thoughtful present that matches each person's hobbies and interests doesn't have to be difficult. Check out this curated list of tech gifts that will make the movie lovers, jetsetters, holiday hosts, gamers and students in your life feel the spirit of the season this winter and beyond.

(BPT) - The new year is dawning. Are your resolutions in line? It's the same every year, right? You set lofty goals - get up an hour earlier to exercise, eat healthier, organize your life, save money, whatever it may be. And by the end of January, those high-minded goals have slipped away. Sound familiar? Time magazine reports that a mere 8% of people who set New Year's resolutions actually follow through on them.

(BPT) - While this may be the most wonderful time of the year in many ways, it's not ideal for your skin. Between frigid temps, brisk wind outside and ultra-dry, overheated air inside - not to mention holiday busyness and stress - your face may not be glowing along with the season.

(BPT) - The "silver tsunami" of people 65 and older combined with the uptick in surgeries during the winter months is creating the perfect storm for a sometimes-overlooked issue - postoperative delirium. More common in older people, postoperative delirium can cause symptoms such as confusion, memory problems or agitation that are usually temporary, but can lead to longer hospital stays and is associated with postoperative cognitive decline. However, if you or a loved one are 65 or older and having surgery, there are ways to reduce the risk, starting with talking to your anesthesiologist before the procedure.

(BPT) - Winter is in full swing. It's a beautiful season, but as the temperature drops and the snow, ice and cold approach, there's always the possibility of a power outage. When it's cold outside and your home is plunged into darkness, it can be more than just an inconvenience. It can mean not being able to keep your family warm, to work if your power is out, even to get water if your pipes freeze.

(BPT) - If you're just starting out and don't have much credit history, the holiday season maxed out your current credit card, or unforeseen circumstances lowered your credit score, this is the perfect time to make New Year's resolutions to improve your credit rating. Learning how to obtain and use credit cards wisely can make a difference in your lifestyle and future goals.

(BPT) - Americans are spending more time in their outdoor spaces - and want to maximize those spaces. Studies show that nearly 90% of homeowners consider their outdoor areas to be important to their health and well-being. Design trends reflect that people are showing more interest in connecting with nature in their own backyard and enjoying the comforts of indoor living while gathering outdoors. This means creating environments that are comfortable, multifunctional and cost-effective.

(BPT) - The summer spike in COVID-19 infections, triggered in part by a rise in new variants of the virus, was an unpleasant reminder that COVID-19 is here to stay. As we brace for an anticipated larger wave of COVID-19 cases during the fall and winter respiratory season, healthcare professionals want to remind the public that the virus does not affect everyone equally; some people, because of their age or overall health, may be at greater risk for severe illness.1,2