The ability to travel is shared by a fortunate sector of the population, and doing so as part of your job is an incredible perk. If you’re one of those who can choose your accommodation when traveling for work reasons, you have a greater responsibility than only conferences and business meetings.  What is low-carbon travel? It means balancing the enjoyment and necessities within your working travel with sustainable transportation, dining and living practices throughout your trip. Supporting environmentally friendly accommodations allows you to contribute to these sustainability efforts that are ongoing across the globe today. The hotels, resorts and guest houses that institute eco-friendly practices are part of these carbon-neutral efforts and deserve all the support and promotion you can give them. What is low-carbon accommodation, and how can you tell if your temporary residence conforms to accepted carbon-neutral standards? What is Low-Carbon Accommodation? In the hospitality sector, low-carbon accommodation, or carbon-neutral accommodation, refers to commercial residential enterprises implementing practices to reduce carbon dioxide emissions within their establishments. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas released into the atmosphere by volcanic eruptions and when humans cut down trees and burn fossil fuels. These situations contribute to climate change worldwide, and by reducing your carbon footprint, you can do your part to slow this hazardous and destructive process. Many hotels, resorts and guest houses have adopted procedures to reduce these carbon emissions.  The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance is driving an initiative for its member organizations to cut carbon emissions by 66% by 2030. With 32 major hotel groups as members, these efforts cover 55,000 properties and over 7 million rooms worldwide. Although these are not the only commercial establishments with sustainable practices, they form prime examples of low-carbon accommodations. How Can You Tell if Your Accommodations Conform? Firstly, if your hotel group is part of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, you can be sure it conforms, but it’s better to know for yourself what conforming entails. There are several things to look for, both before you book and on your arrival: 1. Check the Accommodation’s Website Your most significant indicator before booking is to inspect the hotel’s website. Suppose the commercial entity belongs to a group like the World Sustainability Hospitality Alliance or displays eco-labels or logos from another established sustainability-driven organization. In that case, you can be satisfied it conforms to set parameters. If you still have questions, access the organization's website. Many smaller enterprises might be waiting to receive official recognition. As such, they’re still to be officially mandated, but looking through their websites could provide clues about their eco-friendly practices. Some will include official documents detailing how they apply sustainability initiatives, while others may describe this carbon-neutral proactivity in their room and facility descriptions. If a guest house describes its recycling procedures or uses LED lighting, solar panels, or high-efficiency washing machines, you’ll have a good idea it’s green-friendly. Check the venue's sustainable heating policy if you’re from a warm climate and will travel in winter. Another tip is to ensure easy access to reusable bottles of water and healthy snacks as backup to keep you nourished and hydrated during your stay in a different climate. The more eco-friendly qualities the website mentions, the better. Also, look for a Green Guest accord on the website, which details how guests can be more environmentally aware during their stay. This charter is a big clue regarding the venue’s sustainability motivations. 2. Look at the Building and Grounds You can likely tell a lot from the accommodation’s website photographs, but seeing the venue’s building and grounds on arrival will tell you much more. Does the building gel with the surrounding environment? Is there much natural vegetation and bird life surrounding it? These are all potential eco-friendly indicators. Some hotels have been in the exact location for decades, so at face value, they may need more work to look eco-aware. That doesn’t mean the owners haven’t incorporated more recent initiatives. You’ll tell if any renovations are recent and environmentally proactive or the opposite. Also, watch for the establishment’s Energy Performance Certificate prominently displayed somewhere. 3. Gauge Your Room’s Green Factor Low-carbon accommodations will include a few telltale signs in their guest rooms. The bed linen will likely be made from organic cotton, and reclaimed or upcycled furnishings will dominate the room. You’ll see instructions for eco-friendly air conditioning practices and an HVAC chart indicating its regular servicing and cleaning dates. There’ll also likely be reminders to switch off the air conditioner and television when not in use. 4. Observe Energy Sources and Water Usage Is the hotel solar-powered? There may be wind turbines on the property. Are there low-flow water savers for efficiency on showers, taps and toilets? They may have a rainwater tank outside. These factors, along with the presence of LED lighting and motion sensors, all highlight the establishment’s commitment to sustainable living and are all positives if you’re looking to spend your time after work in an eco-friendly environment. 5. Pay Attention to Recycling Habits An accommodation venue that visibly encourages the ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ policy and has separate recycle bins for guests in foyers and rooms is on the right track environmentally. It’s well on the path if it provides you with reusable straws, doesn’t issue single-use bottles and has bulk dispensers filled with organic soap and shampoo in the bathrooms.  6. Consider These Other Factors Sustainable hotels will boast about their restaurants' local food and how their suppliers grow it organically. They will have suggestions on low-carbon travel alternatives for their guests and might even offer bicycles or electric vehicles for use. Many employees will be locals, and more will be in training. Finally, somebody will ask you to sign a guest register on leaving and request you leave a comment on your stay and the carbon-neutral services they provide. Low-Carbon Accommodations Are Plentiful With more sustainable guest accommodations operating than ever, you don’t have to look as far for one as you used to. The world around you is changing, and hopefully, the venues you’ll frequent for your business meetings or conferences will be as well-picked as the accommodations you choose. If you’re having your stay booked by somebody else within your organization, maybe mention you’d like to spend your working trip as sustainably as possible.

As the weather cools, your workout routine doesn’t have to hibernate. Fall is the perfect time to embrace outdoor runs, hikes or early-morning yoga sessions with crisp, fresh air. But with colder weather comes the need for workout gear that keeps you warm, comfortable and stylish.  The Importance of Proper Fall Workout Gear Having the right fall workout gear is essential to staying on top of your fitness routine when the weather may deter you. When the temperatures drop, your body loses heat more quickly, which can cause stiff muscles and potential injuries if you’re not properly dressed. Layering with moisture-wicking fabrics helps regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm without overheating.  Additionally, fall workout gear is designed to protect you from unpredictable weather conditions, like wind and rain. Pieces like water-resistant jackets, thermal leggings and gloves keep you comfortable and ensure you’re fully prepared to tackle your sessions no matter the conditions. For chilly sunny fall days, look for workout outfits that will keep you warm and protect you from UV rays simultaneously. Certain fabrics are designed to stand up to sun damage with UPFs (Ultraviolet Protection Factors) of up to 50. Compare those to cotton garments in which the UPF is approximately 5. The Best Fall Workout Outfits The perfect fall workout gear can make all the difference in your performance. If you feel good and you’re comfortable, you’re more likely to smash your sessions. Here are the best fall workout outfits to help you brave the cold while staying cozy and stylish.  Lululemon Align Full-Length Leggings These Lululemon leggings are a staple for anyone who values comfort and style. Made from the brand’s signature Nulu fabric, they’re buttery soft and feel like a second skin. Designed with a high-rise waist, they offer gentle support without digging in, making them ideal for yoga, Pilates or any low-impact activities.  The full-length cut provides extra coverage for cooler weather, while the four-way stretch ensures unrestricted movement. Whether you’re stretching in the studio or lounging at home, the Align leggings are perfect for all-day wear.  Get it on Amazon for $88.47 90 Degree By Reflex Fleece-Lined Leggings These fleece-lined leggings are the ultimate choice for cold-weather workouts. They feature a super soft, brushed fleece interior that provides warmth without sacrificing comfort. Designed with a high waistband, they offer excellent tummy control and stay in place during movement, making them perfect for everything from outdoor runs to yoga sessions. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry, while the fleece lining keeps you warm as temperatures drop. Affordable and durable, these leggings are essential for fall and winter workouts. They come in plenty of colors, from classic black to bright red. Plus, they have a side pocket to fit your phone, car keys or wallet, allowing you to focus on your session. Get it on Amazon for $27.99 Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Mock Neck This mock neck is a must-have for staying warm during chilly outdoor workouts. Made with dual-layer ColdGear fabric, it features a soft, brushed interior to trap heat and a smooth, fast-drying exterior to keep you dry.  The mock neck design provides extra neck coverage, while the compression fit enhances circulation and supports your muscles. Lightweight and breathable, it’s great for layering or wearing on its own during activities like running, walking, cycling or hiking in colder weather. This top combines warmth and comfort to keep you focused when the temperature drops. Get it on Amazon for $48.23 New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves Remember to keep your hands toasty, too. Made from a soft, stretchy fabric, these gloves offer lightweight insulation while remaining breathable. They feature touch-screen compatible fingertips, so you can easily use your phone or fitness tracker without removing them. The moisture-wicking material will keep your hands dry, and the snug fit ensures they stay in place as you run.  Get it on Amazon for $18.98 Smartwool Crew Socks Smartwool socks are crucial for those seeking warmth and comfort. Made from high-quality merino wool, these socks are naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, making them perfect for everything from hikes to everyday wear.  The crew height provides extra coverage and warmth, while the sole is comfortable and supportive for long walks or workouts. Merino wool is perfect for temperature regulation and keeping your feet dry.  Get it on Amazon for $22 Free People Pippa Jacket Free People Movement really stands out when it comes to fashionable activewear. The Pippa jacket is quilted, featuring an oversized fit that adds a relaxed vibe to any outfit while keeping you snug. With its snap button front and large pockets, the Pippa jacket is as practical as it is chic, ideal for layering over your favorite workout gear or throwing it on post-workout. While on the pricier side, it’s definitely an investment piece that’ll last you for many seasons to come.  Get it on Amazon for $198 Trendy Queen Oversized Hoodies Warming up is one of the most important parts of a workout, and why not look cute while doing it? These relaxed, baggy hoodies provide a laid-back, effortlessly cool look. Made from breathable fabric, they’re great for layering during chilly outdoor exercise or warming up before a session. Plus, it’s available in practically every color you could think of, so you’re sure to find one to match your current workout wardrobe. Get it on Amazon for $29.99 Gacaky Athletic Jacket This sporty jacket is designed for an active woman who values style and performance. Crafted from lightweight material, this zip-up offers excellent moisture-wicking properties to keep you comfy during intense workouts or outdoor activities. Its fitted silhouette and stretching fabric provide a flattering look while allowing unrestricted movement during exercise.  It’s fantastic for running, cycling or gym sessions, offering extra coverage against the elements. The convenient thumb holes ensure your sleeves stay in place while exercising and keep your hands warm.  Get it on Amazon for $19.87 DEVOPS Thermal Long Sleeve Shirts DEVOPS long sleeves are essential compression base layer tops for ultimate comfort in the cold. These shirts provide exceptional warmth while managing temperature to keep you comfortable while on the move. The compression fit supports muscles, enhancing circulation and reducing fatigue, making them perfect for layering under your favorite jackets.  Get a 2-pack on Amazon for $25.99 Depot Relaxed Fit Joggers These joggers offer the perfect combination of comfort and style for light workouts. Made from soft material, these relaxed joggers ensure maximum mobility while keeping you looking chic. The tapered ankle cuffs and adjustable drawstring waistband adds a trendy touch and allow for a customizable fit. They have plenty of plain colors and bolder designs to choose from and the pockets are big enough to hold your phone and other essentials while you crush your workout. Get it on Amazon for $15.99 Celebrate the Season With the Right Fall Workout Gear Autumn workouts are a great way to enjoy the season while staying active. With the best fall workout outfits, you can keep your body warm, your spirits high and your fitness goals on track — no matter how cool it gets outside.  Share on X if you found this post helpful!

If you love the taste of a sweet apple on a nice autumn morning, you’ll be happy to know that National Apple Day is right here. Plus, there are some easy recipes that you could do to just celebrate the momentous occasion.  When Is National Apple Day? National Apple Day is on October 21. The holiday was launched in 1990 by the UK organization Common Ground to raise awareness of the Earth’s rich and diverse landscape. It started as a small gathering before it boomed into a staple autumn holiday in Britain and worldwide.  America has a strong affinity for all fall-season foods, from pumpkins to cinnamon. Apples are also right up that alley, making National Apple Day a wonderful day to celebrate.  Benefits of Eating Apples “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a famous quote for a reason. These fruits are rich in fiber, which lowers blood sugar levels and boosts digestion. They are also rich in Vitamin C and potassium, which improve heart health and other bodily functions.  Apples can be processed into new ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar (ACV), which carries all the benefits of these fruits and more. There’s anecdotal evidence that drinking one tablespoon of ACV diluted in eight ounces of water may help with acid reflux. However, further scientific research is needed. Apple Recipes to Try Out Celebrate National Apple Day by trying fall and festive recipes incorporating your sweet bushel. You could prepare them with or for your loved ones and chat about anything under the sun.  1. Baked Apples Baked apples are potentially the easiest way to prepare these fruits while making it mouthwatering. Combine brown sugar with white sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl. You can set it aside afterward. Slice your apples into uniform pieces and add a layer to a greased baking tray. You can leave the skin on or off, depending on your preference. Sprinkle on your brown sugar mix and make another layer before baking. Vanilla ice cream with this dish is top-tier.  2. Apple Mug Cake A warm apple mug cake would make a delicious afternoon snack. Grate your fruits to make them easy to incorporate with the rest of your ingredients. Add flour, baking powder, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, and your fruit goes straight into a microwave-safe mug. Some people like to add a little lemon juice to complement the sweetness of the apple, but it’s optional. While it’s cooking, you could prepare a cold strawberry apple juice to go with it. Blend both fruits with water and enjoy your little concoctions.  3. Apple Crumble Apple crumble is one of those recipes that just gets you excited about these colder seasons. It starts by cooking diced apples on the stove with a little water to make them tender. Then, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Toss and layer onto a baking sheet. For the topping, mix flour, salt, brown sugar and butter together. It should create a crumbly mixture to place on top of your apples. Bake until the top is golden brown and the inner filling is bubbling and jammy.  4. Apple Pie Making apple pie is one of the best ways to enjoy that fruity yet cozy aroma. Slice your fruits thinly and coat them with brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this aside while coating your pie pan with a pre-made crust. If you want to make the pie dough from scratch, you only need flour and cold butter. Massage the ingredients until crumbly and add ice water to smoothen it out. Chill before using. Add a layer of rolled-out dough onto the greased pan and add your apple filling. For the top crust, cut up strips and layer them into a checkered pattern. You can also get creative by making more intricate shapes like a leaf to represent the season.  5. Cinnamon Apple Smoothie Bowl Another easy recipe to whip up is the cinnamon apple blast. For the base, combine apple sauce with yogurt and one mashed frozen banana. You can also add almond milk and vanilla for both texture and taste. Top with flax seeds, granola, sliced apples and your favorite fruits with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon.  6. Waldorf Salad Waldorf salad is an American classic for National Apple Day. To make it, cut up celery, red grapes, apples and lettuce. Toss them in a bowl before adding crispy walnuts.  Many people debate whether to use yogurt or mayo for dressing, and it simply comes down to personal preference. Whisk the cream with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle it over the salad and toss it again before eating.  7. Caramel Apples If you’ve never eaten caramel apples before, now’s the best day to try it. You can make the sauce with sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, light corn syrup, butter, and vanilla extract on a stove. Add sticks to your bushel and dip them one by one into the heated liquid, ensuring you get an even coat. Baby marshmallows, nuts, and sprinkles would go well on the sides.  8. Apple Strudel Apple strudel is a gift from the Germans. Make the sweet filling with sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar and raisins. For the dough, you can mix flour, salt, water, oil and lemon juice. Knead until it forms an elastic ball and let it rest. Spread the dough on parchment paper and roll it out until flat. Spread butter and a few breadcrumbs around it before arranging your apple filling on one-half. From there, you can fold the bare part of the dough on top of the fruits.  Tuck the dough close and transfer the lump to a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown. You can add powdered sugar on top and slice up the servings.  Other Ways to Enjoy National Apple Day Not up to making some apple recipes? There are still tons of ways to enjoy National Apple Day, such as: Go on an orchard tour: Visit a nearby apple orchard and learn more about how these fruits are grown. It’s also a great opportunity to just bask in nature while enjoying the novelty of apple picking.  Buy local apple creations: Stock up on fruits from your local farmers to support their cultivation. You can also try different local apple products like ACV, jam, wine, and more to celebrate.  Learn a new apple fact: Did you know Granny Smith is a real person? Maria Anne Smith won “Best Cooking Apple” at the Castle Hill Agricultural and Horticultural Show in the 1890s after propagating the infamous light green apple.  Live Apple-y Ever After National Apple Day is a quaint yet meaningful holiday that celebrates the land and what it provides to humanity. Pick your favorite apple variety and have a blast making a delicious dish. Have an apple-tastic day!

Whether you want to use plant-based personal care supplies or support the animals by changing how you consume, there are vegan options for your every need. If you're ready to upgrade your skin care products to clean and green, here are seven best vegan sunscreens. What Is a Vegan Sunscreen? A sunscreen is considered vegan if its formula doesn't contain any animal or animal-derived ingredients and isn't tested on animals. Why would someone choose vegan over other options? The main reason for the many is to promote sustainability and animal welfare. Many products on the shelves today have been produced or tested using animals, with some being harmed or dying in the process. How do you know if a product is vegan? The labels often tell if the ingredients are entirely plant-based. Third-party certifications also help differentiate vegan products from non-vegans. Is Plant-Based Sunscreen Effective? There's a myth about plant-based sunscreen being inferior to products with animal derivatives, but no evidence can prove this claim. In contrast, the compounds found in plants are as effective and safe in filtering UV rays as other ingredients derived from animals.   Scientists have recently discovered an Asian plant species called sanshool, which can absorb UV light. They've stabilized the skin care formula by combining it with polyphenols containing natural antioxidants.  After testing on cultured human skin cells, they found the product retained around 90% of their UV-absorbance ability after two hours and over 80% protection after five days. Leveraging each plant's strength makes it possible to create effective vegan sunscreens.   What to Look for When Choosing Vegan Sunscreens Reading the labels is key to choosing genuine vegan products. For beginners just starting to explore the plant-based versions of their sunscreen, here are some tips to help you choose the right one. 1. Check for “Vegan-Friendly” Logos Look for any marks of third-party organizations certifying the product is vegan. Nonprofit companies like Vegan Action allow manufacturers to attach a Certified Vegan logo to their products if it's proven they don't contain any animal or animal by-products and have not been tested on animals. Another option is the USDA Organic logo.  2. Look for “Cruelty-Free” or “Not Tested on Animals” Labels The Leaping Bunny Program, run by the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics, set comprehensive rules for cruelty labeling to help customers shop for genuine vegan products. The logo on a product guarantees buyers that what they're buying has met a rigorous and international standard for cruelty-free assessment.  3. Watch Out for Hidden Non-vegan Ingredients Some labels can be misleading since manufacturers don't include where the ingredients are sourced from. For example, honey and beeswax come from the bees and lanolin from sheep, so anything with them isn't pure vegan. Other common ingredients you may think are vegan but aren't are gelatin, casein, wine, lactic acid, whey and L-cysteine.  4. Buy a Product With a High Sun Protection Factor The sun protection factor (SPF) measures how well the product stops sunburn. Get a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to prevent premature aging and sun damage. It's a must for those with sensitive skin.  7 Vegan Sunscreens With SPF 50  Are you looking for a vegan sunscreen for the first time? If so, here are some of the bestsellers to give a try.  1. Sun Bum Original  For less than $15, you can get optimum SPF 50 protection and extra vitamin E to moisturize the skin. This premium sunscreen is unscented, perfect for those looking for everyday protection without unnecessary chemicals. It's also water resistant, making it an excellent choice for beating down the summer. To use, apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and enjoy the outdoors without worrying about burning your skin. Get it on Amazon at $11.62 2. iUNIK Centella Calming Moisture Daily Sunscreen  This Korean vegan sunscreen is for those who don't have 10 minutes or more to do their face care routine. iUNIK combines moisturizing, anti-aging, hydration and sun protection in this calming centella product, allowing you to streamline your skin care in one application. This vegan sunscreen for oily skin smoothly blends on the face without any white cast or greasy feeling.  Get it on Amazon at $14.99 3. Face Republic Purity Sun Essence  Another daily staple from Korea is this sunscreen from Face Republic. A brand globally recognized for its quality products, this sun essence glides effortlessly on the skin without leaving a white cast. Any makeup goes on top of it nicely, making it a holy grail for people looking for a water-resistant formula that is a joy to wear on the outdoors.  Get it on Amazon at $14 4. MAKEPREM Defense Me Daily Vegan Sun Fluid  This hybrid vegan sunscreen with SPF 50 has both mineral and chemical filters to cancel and deflect UV rays so they don't reach your skin. It comes in a fluid form with ingredients like bamboo water and fructan that have been carefully selected to suit the most sensitive skin type. Because it's safe for both the face and the body, you don't have to carry a second bottle of sun protection if you go out. It's convenient and easy to use.  Get it on Amazon at $29.99 5. SOME BY MI V10 Hyal Air Fit Sunscreen  From a famous vegan sunscreen brand in Korea, SOME BY Mi's mild SPF solution is packed with 10 vitamins to defend the skin from the sun's rays and minimize photodamage, hyperpigmentation and melasma. Its hyaluronic acid boost forms a moisture barrier on the skin's surface and keeps it hydrated.  It's FDA-approved and has a broad-spectrum SPF 50 that soaks in quickly. Moreover, it contains niacinamide, which helps dry out active pimples and soothe excess sebum. It's the perfect vegan sunscreen for oily skin, leaving no greasy feeling even after multiple retouches. Get it on Amazon at $16.70 6. Solara Suncare Sunscreen Milk Solara has one of the best vegan sunscreens in the U.S.A. The milky liquid comes in a glass bottle with a squeeze dropper for the dispenser, which is unique for a product often packed in squeezable plastic tubes. It's sustainable, vegan, cruelty-free and verified by the Environmental Working Group. It's safe for use and does not include ingredients that can cause allergy, skin irritation or even cancer. Its formula is loaded with 12 skin-compatible actives, providing everything your skin needs to stay plumpy and healthy under the sun.  Get it on Amazon at $56 7. Royal SunFrog Sunscreen Mineral Stick Royal SunFrog has the most convenient, travel-size, vegan sunscreen stick to retouch your skin's defense against the sun anywhere without the mess — no more squeezing bottles or spreading the product on the skin with your hands. To use, glide it on the face or body. This sunscreen is made from 100% natural ingredients and is manufactured in an FDA-regulated facility. It's the perfect product to minimize tans while hiking, surfing, biking and running. Get it on Amazon at $7.49 Switch to Vegan Sunscreens Vegan sunscreens are made of natural ingredients safe for the skin and the environment. When choosing a brand, read the labels and look for animal-friendly logos to ensure you get a genuine vegan product. Now, you can enjoy the summer even longer, knowing you're protected under the sun. 

Watching your child become a teenager is a joyful yet concerning experience. One of the challenges they may face is body image issues. With social media showing unrealistic beauty standards and peer pressure at an all-time high, it’s no wonder why many teens feel inadequate. Here’s how to help a teen with body image issues regain confidence. What Influences Body Image on Teenagers? Around 64% of parents reported that their child feels self-conscious about their appearance, including hair, weight, skin condition, breasts and height, among other things. Some parents also said that their children avoid being in photos or restrict their food because of insecurities. That being said, the influences are mainly: Environmental Factors The people and opinions surrounding your teen might affect their self-esteem. Some risk factors include a family or school environment that emphasizes appearance, criticism of weight or appearance and exposure to toxic standards about weight and food. A significant example of an environment that can potentially affect your teen’s self-image is sports. Some sports, such as gymnastics, ballet and running focus on the athlete’s body and physical appearance, which may lead to negative self-esteem among teens. Societal Factors Social media, the influencer culture and the age of filters can distort your teen’s view of a healthy body. They may compare themselves to people who heavily edit their images and may become dissatisfied with their appearance. Aside from social media, your teen’s friends may reinforce negative attitudes about appearance.  Biological Factors Puberty can trigger negative body image as your teen’s body undergoes growth spurts. Girls develop hips and breasts, whereas boys develop the Adam’s apple — the bump on their throat. Both boy and girl teens also develop hair and their oil glands produce more oil, causing acne. These natural changes may make your child feel self-conscious about their appearance. At What Age Do Body Image Issues Start? Research shows that children as young as three can acquire body image issues. Pay attention to the following symptoms: Excessive weight loss Exercising excessively Eating small portions of meals or skipping them entirely Being secretive about eating Constantly comparing themselves to others Social withdrawal from friends or family members Loss of interest in hobbies Regularly commenting on their weight How Does It Affect Your Teen’s Mental Health? When your teen feels negatively about their appearance, it can trigger mental health issues, including: Anxiety Depression Feelings of guilt or shame Financial strain Poor self-esteem Preoccupation with weight or body type Negative thoughts Two of the most common effects are body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Body dysmorphia is a mental health issue that’s rooted in negative thoughts about one’s appearance. People with this concern may feel ashamed that their social life and physical health suffer. On the other hand, negative body image can trigger eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. According to a study in China, 50% of Anorexic patients had a fear of gaining weight. Refusing to eat is not the only sign of anorexia. Teens may also overexercise in the quest of having a thinner figure. Bulimia happens when a person has regular periods of overeating, and then purges or exercises to compensate for their binges. People with bulimia usually use laxatives, diuretics or diet pills to maintain a particular image. How to Help a Teenager With Body Image Issues Now’s the time to take action. Here’s how you can help your teenager with body image issues. 1. Validate Their Feelings Be a good listener. Avoid invalidating their feelings as they share their frustrations. Be patient and acknowledge that their feelings are important. Even if you think it’s not a big deal, the fact that they opened up about it means it’s bothering them. 2. Be a Good Role Model Your child watches your lifestyle, attitudes and eating habits. Pay attention to how you talk about yourself in the mirror, how you view yourself and what you feed your mind. You can’t teach your teenager to love their body if their parent is struggling with it. However, if you’re still working on self-acceptance, you can start an exercise program or eat healthier with your teen instead. Practice healthy habits together and feel better about yourselves. 3. Teach Good Social Media Habits So much of what people see online is edited, but it still sets such heavy pressure and expectations on teenagers. Help your teen learn to be suspicious about what they see on Instagram, TikTok and other social media platforms they use. Explain that most people use photo editing tools or have access to cosmetic surgeries and personal trainers that fuel unhealthy beauty ideals. You can also regulate their phone usage and encourage off-screen habits. Around 61% of Americans stare at their screens for five or more hours daily. Introduce new activities, such as hiking or crocheting.  4. Give Praise That’s Unrelated to Appearance Shower your teen with praise that’s unrelated to their insecurities or appearance. Here are some ways to show them praise and help your teenager deal with body image issues: Commend their talents, skills and personal qualities. Tell them you’re proud of trying out new things. Show your appreciation for doing their best at school. Celebrate their sense of humor and good character. Praise them for helping complete the chores. Rather than just saying “Thanks for your help,” try to be more descriptive and say “I appreciate you for washing the dishes to give me more time to complete my gardening chores.” 5. Remember Boys Can Have Body Issues Too Boys are also susceptible to body issues. Many feel pressured to be strong, tall and have a deep voice. Some also think that showing emotions is a sign of weakness. Talk to your teenage boy if they have body concerns and assess how you can offer help. 6. Encourage Seeking Professional Help Sometimes, treating body image issues may require proper intervention. If you’ve tried all the abovementioned strategies and nothing is working, consider seeking professional help. Empower Your Teen Self-acceptance is a journey. Remember not to rush your teen into making them feel better for themselves. With patience and understanding, you can make your teenager look and feel confident about themselves again.

TikTok shorts of people sharing their experiences and getting good results with mouth tape are swarming the internet. This technique is labeled the latest health craze, reducing snoring and improving sleep. However, should you be trying something recommended by someone without any medical background just because it works for them? Learn why people have been using mouth tape for sleep and its potential benefits and drawbacks. Nasal vs. Mouth Breathing The body has two channels for inhaling — the nose and the mouth. Between the two, nasal breathing is considered ideal due to its benefits, like reduced risk of infection. The respiratory system comprises various organs and muscles, such as the lungs and diaphragm, that work in rhythm so you can take in air without any problem. While both the nose and the mouth are part of this inhalation network, the former is the primary channel for drawing air into the lungs. It has hairs that filter the irritants in the incoming air. Additionally, the nose has a built-in mechanism that warms and humidifies the air before it reaches the lungs. This line up of respiratory networks ensures you send a supply of cleaner gas to the body. While nasal breathing is the default respiration method, some people may have a condition that makes inhaling through the nose challenging. For instance, those with congenital anomalies, asthma or heart disease may shift from nasal to mouth breathing in the middle of their sleep.  Unfortunately, the mouth doesn’t have the filtering system the nose has. Chronic breathing using it is associated with health problems like gum disease and difficulty swallowing. It also changes the shape of your jaw. Mouth Taping as a Promising Solution As the name suggests, mouth taping involves sealing the secondary passage of air to encourage nose breathing during sleep. It's a recent health trend many do to prevent snoring and dry mouth. Is it safe, though? What does science say about it?  No study evaluates mouth taping's safety. While there's no evidence, many people on social media swear by it. One specialist says it's a technique for converting to nasal breathing.  You can consciously correct your breathing pattern when you're awake but not when you're dozed off. The idea is to block the mouth to encourage inhalation through the nose throughout the night. Mouth taping might help fix your breathing pattern. However, if you snore or have other sleep issues, get personalized advice from your doctor instead of taking the recommendation on social media, as it might not work for you. What Science Says About Mouth Taping Despite insufficient evidence on safety, a few studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of mouth taping. One was done on patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea. People with this sleep disorder tend to breathe with their mouth, which narrows the upper airway and worsens their condition.  In this study, researchers recommended a 3M silicone hypoallergenic tape to seal the mouth during sleep. After one week of home sleep test, 13 out of 20 patients showed reduced severity of sleep apnea and snoring intensity. Experts concluded mouth taping could be an alternative treatment before patients turn to drastic interventions, like surgery or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The Health Risks of Mouth Taping Mouth taping has some risks. One expert cites that sealing your mouth can make breathing harder for people with already blocked nasal airways, such as those with sleep apnea. As a result, oxygen levels inside the body might drop. Moreover, the body has two oxygen channels for a reason. If the primary passage is barred, breathing through the mouth — although not ideal — can help sustain the gas supply in the bloodstream while asleep.  Skin irritation is another factor to consider when trying this trend. The skin around the mouth is highly sensitive, so using a tape may increase the risk of rash and other skin problems. Using a Mouth Tape for Sleep Some doctors may agree for you to try this method. However, be sure you and your primary care physician talk before using it and are aware of potential risks. At the moment, studies proving its safety are scarce. People on social media tout its impressive upsides, but it doesn't confirm it'll work for you or others with sleep conditions. Stay on the safe side and visit your doctor for advice. Using it without their knowledge is like taking a special drug without a prescription, which could worsen your health problem. Alternatives to Mouth Taping If you're having trouble getting shuteye, here are a couple of sleep accessories that can help reduce snoring and relax your nervous system for hibernation. Melatonin Supplements Melatonin pills can help normalize the circadian rhythm by changing how your body responds to darkness. They can be an effective remedy in addressing short-term episodes of insomnia. You can get them over the counter, but consult your doctor before buying as they might have a better suggestion of fixing your overnight restlessness. Furthermore, limit their use for up to one to two months when your sleep improves.  Medical Mouthguards These tools are generally prescribed to people with mild to moderate sleep apnea to aid in proper respiration. Wearing one while asleep keeps the airways open and reduces the risk of breathing problems. Ensure you get one customized for you instead of buying off-the-shelf options. They can be an excellent adjunct therapy for people who aren’t ready to explore CPAP or other advanced interventions.  Using Mouth Tape for Sleep Looks Promising Limited evidence exists on the effectiveness of using a mouth tape for sleep. Despite this, recent research is encouraging because of the scant positive outcomes. If it ever gets approved, it would be an affordable and viable option for millions worldwide experiencing sleep apnea.  If you're diagnosed with a sleeping disorder, the best course of action is to talk to your doctor so they can develop a personalized plan for you. Testimonies on social media are compelling, but don't let others' words blunt your logic and put your health at risk for doing it without supervision. Collaborate with your primary care physician to solve your sleep issues.