Health

How Speech And Language Development Can Be Enhanced With Barrier Games

As you might be aware, the speech pathologists from CommuniKids, who are experts and have experience in helping children with speech and language difficulties, use a broad spectrum of tools and resources to achieve the speech therapy goals that have been identified. Such is the number and diversity of these it would be impossible to list them all, but one which we do wish to highlight is playing games.

Given that children of all ages, backgrounds, and development levels learn a huge amount when playing games, then it follows that playing games will be a crucial tool in the armoury of resources and teaching tools that a speech pathologist uses with the children under their care.

The form each game takes and how it is played will differ and each child’s needs will be taken into account when their speech pathologist is deciding upon which games will have the greatest positive impact on their speech and language development. A consideration they will make is which type of game is most suitable, and one game type which may be looked at is barrier games.

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By Healthy House, ago

6 Ways to Use Turmeric

Turmeric has a long history in culinary use giving curries their yellow appearance & distinct taste. The main active ingredient in turmeric is called curcumin, which is from a curcuminoid compound. Curcumin has a distinct mustard-like smell with a slightly bitter, peppery & earthy flavour.

While the health benefits of consuming turmeric have gained popularity recently, it is interesting to note that turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for over 4,000 years for a variety of conditions. Many research studies have shown that curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory effects on our bodies. Recommended for arthritis for its anti-inflammatory & pain relieving properties, turmeric is also an amazing anti-oxidant so will fight free radicals in our bodies which can cause disease. Turmeric is great for detoxing the liver & also provides anti-microbial effects.

What to do with your turmeric?

1. Add it to your cooking – fortify soups, mix with scrambled eggs, toss it amongst your roast veggies before cooking

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By Healthy House, ago

How To Clean Vomit From A Leather Couch If Someone Has Been Sick On It

If someone throws up while seated on or near your leather couch, there’s no time to clean the couch thoroughly or call in professional couch cleaners. The cause of the throw-up could be anything from a severe stomach illness to an excessive amount of alcohol consumption.

Whilst leather is a robust and durable material, that does not mean it is invincible, and should someone vomit all over a leather couch, there are serious risks that the leather could be damaged and thus ruin the appearance of that couch.

Some reasons this is the case include any food colorants within the vomit causing the dye on the leather to discolor and the stomach acid within the vomit burning a stain into the leather. The lingering smell will remain on your leather couch should the vomit not be cleaned away correctly, no matter how small the amount is.

So, assuming you do not wish your leather couch to be damaged or, worse, ruined should someone vomit on it, below is our quick guide on how to clean vomit from a leather couch. Before we start, the essential medical point is that before you do any couch cleaning, please ensure that the person who has been sick is okay. Vomiting can be an indicator of something more serious, so attend to their welfare before your couch by seeking medical advice if you deem it necessary.

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By Healthy House, ago
Should I try Home Rehab?

Why Trying Drugs Detox At Home Is Extremely Risky

Many people with a drug addiction simply refuse to enter drug rehab and opt instead to try overcoming their illness themselves, generally at home. That might sound laudable, and although many people have weaned themselves off drugs in this way, it has no guarantee of success.

Further, the chances of this option being successful are far less than the drug above available rehab treatments. Even more cause for concern is that detoxing oneself at home carries several risks. We are not suggesting that anyone trying to end their addiction at home should be criticised for that, merely that they must do so in full knowledge of those risks.

Taking that stage further, it is essential that anyone who cares for a person with drug addiction, especially their family, is aware of what the risks of home detox consist of. To that aim, we have outlined below the main dangers of detoxing at home.

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By Healthy House, ago
Important Facts About Vitamins Everyone Should Know

Important Facts About Vitamins Everyone Should Know

If you read or listen to advice relating to your health, and in particular the nutrients you need to remain healthy, you will surely have come across some information about vitamins.  Vitamins play a crucial role in our development as children and our general health as adults. The body needs them. The mind needs them, and other important functions such as the immune system, metabolism,  nerve impulses and oxygen flow around the body all need them.

It would probably be easier to list the body functions that do not rely upon vitamins than those that do. This should alert you to the fact that almost everything that contributes to your health and well-being relies upon vitamins to some degree. Beyond that, there are several facts about vitamins that many people are unaware of. They know vitamins are good for them, but beyond that, their knowledge of vitamins is lacking, so let us resolve that.

In all, there are a total of 13 vitamins that humans need to survive. These are Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, D, E, and K. Each of them has a chemical name (in brackets), specific functions within our bodies and various sources as outlined below.

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By Healthy House, ago
Top 4 Reasons People Go Dairy Free

Top 4 Reasons People Go Dairy Free

1. Allergy

Cows milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies affecting children. An allergic response occurs as the immune system reacts to the proteins casein & whey found in milk, causing the body to produce antibodies. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to milk can be mild, causing hives, welts & swelling but can be as severe as anaphylaxis, although this is rare. If there is an allergic reaction to cow’s milk, this will usually mean there can be a reaction to other animal milk such as goats. With an allergy, all dairy products, milk solids and traces of dairy in any product should be avoided.

2. Intolerance

Dairy and/or lactose (the natural sugar found in milk) intolerances differ from dairy allergies; intolerances will not cause a severe reaction or anaphylaxis. Intolerances occur when a chemical reaction occurs after eating or drinking, often caused by a digestive issue. Dairy intolerances have been linked to asthma, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms can include but are not limited to headaches, nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, and mucous build-up.

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By Healthy House, ago
Kombucha Vs Kefir! Who's the winner?

Kombucha Vs Kefir! Who’s the winner?

What is the difference between Kombucha and Water Kefir? And which one is better for you?

Well, in a nutshell, they are both fermented probiotic beverages but they use different cultures to start the fermentation process. For kombucha, the starter culture is known as a SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast) which is held together by polysaccharides giving it the appearance of a mushroom. Water kefir starts with gelatinous grains, which are small and translucent colonies of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.

Both fermented drinks start off with a sweet liquid base: Kombucha uses a sugar tea (normally black or green tea) while water kefir uses sugar water.

Water kefir has a shorter fermentation of 24-48 hours which usually results in a sweeter yeasty-style drink. Kombucha is fermented for 2 -4 weeks and when made traditionally it has a vinegar-like taste. However, most commercially made kombucha sold today is brewed with a sweeter style to make it more consumer-friendly.

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By Healthy House, ago
Why An Apple A Day Can Keep Both Your Doctor AND Your Dentist Away

Why An Apple A Day Can Keep Both Your Doctor AND Your Dentist Away

There is a well-known phrase that states, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Whilst not entirely accurate, given that people who eat apples do still become ill from time to time, it speaks more to the fact that apples contain many nutrients that are good for your health, and thus will hopefully reduce how often the doctor needs to see you.

However, the doctor is not the only health professional that apples can reduce the workload for. Your dentist may also not be as busy trying to fix your teeth and gums if you eat apples regularly. To provide you with some of the reasons why apples are good for your health, including your oral health, we are going to outline are some of the many benefits of eating apples. Before we look at oral health,  we will first list some of the general health benefits apples can provide.

Reduced Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can result from high levels of sodium in your blood. Apples are rich in potassium which helps to control the aforementioned sodium levels, thus keeping your blood pressure in check.

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By Healthy House, ago
Are Waist Trainers Safe? 

Are Waist Trainers Safe? 

When you start looking for information on waist trainers before you buy one, you probably come across a lot of articles. Many of these are informative and mention the results you can achieve. However, some talk about the dangers of waist trainers and how they aren’t safe. So, it begs the question: are waist trainers safe? You’re about to find out.

Corsets vs. Waist Training Cinchers

Before you buy waist trainers for yourself, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with what both corsets and waist trainers are, for they are quite different.

Corsets tend to have steel bones, and they feature a fabric such as leather, satin, or cotton that promotes curvature of your hips and bust. The goal of corsets is to remove upwards of three inches off your waist. They sit around your midsection and encourage an hourglass curve that is slowly becoming more fashionable after losing its appeal before the 1900s.

Waist trainers, or cinchers, however, are there to provide a slimming effect. They promote a curvier waistline, but not nearly close to that of a corset. What’s more, they are proving favourable during exercise, as their latex construction promotes sweating, which can lead to a more intense workout.

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By Healthy House, ago
What To Expect Before, During, And After Lasik Eye Surgery

What To Expect Before, During, And After Lasik Eye Surgery

One thing  that make patients most nervous about any kind of surgical procedure, and that includes Lasik Perth eye surgery, is not so much the procedure itself, but a lack of knowledge about what will happen. We trust that the vast majority of doctors, surgeons, and nurses are open with their patients and give them all the information they need, but it may not always be the case.

If you have chosen to have Lasik eye surgery then no doubt you have done your research, however, if not, or if you are considering Lasik eye surgery and want to know more, then read on. We are going to explain to you what happens before, during, and after Lasik eye surgery in the hope that it reassures you that it is not only an effective treatment but also a safe one too.

Before Lasik Eye Surgery

First, you have a few practical matters to sort out, as, for a day or so after your surgery, your sight will not yet be 100% and you will need to recover. For this reason, you should arrange for a day or two off work, and if necessary arrange for a family member or friend to help you at home with regards to cooking meals and the like.

Also, you will need to arrange for someone to collect you from the eye surgery clinic as your sight at that stage will not allow you to drive safely.

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By Healthy House, ago
Choose the Right Dentist

How to Choose the Right Dentist for You

To many people, choosing a dentist is an easy process. You look online or in the phone book, pick one, then make a booking. Sure, you’ve selected a dentist, but how do you know if they are the best dentist? Read on to find out.

Services

Not every dentist will offer every service, and that can be quite inconvenient when you require those services at a later date. The best dentist is one that will provide all those general dentistry services like checkups and fillings, but will then also offer cosmetic dental services like teeth whitening and Invisalign braces, too.

Before you make your booking, find out more about the dental services they provide. The complete package offers unparalleled convenience.

Location

The location of your chosen dentist is not the most critical factor, but it certainly helps if they are close to you. Start by looking at the options nearest to you, then branch further out until you find the one who ticks all the boxes. Fortunately, searching for ‘dentists near me’ online can narrow down your options.

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By Healthy House, ago
Having Clean Carpets

The Health Benefits Of Having Clean Carpets

For many people, the sole purpose of calling in a professional carpet cleaner is to simply make their carpets look cleaner. For others, an additional objective is to prolong the lifetime of their carpets. However, there is a third reason for wanting clean carpets which has nothing to do with the appearance or well-being of the carpets themselves.

In fact, when it comes to well-being, it is yours and your family’s that we are referring to, because there are many health benefits that are derived from having your carpets cleaned regularly.

Now, what we are not talking about here is the physical exertion you have to produce when you are pushing the vacuum cleaner around your home. As much as that may burn off a few calories, what we are actually referring in terms of health benefits, are those which occur as a result of your carpets being clean.

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By Healthy House, ago
Dentist Knows You’re Lying

Your Dentist Knows You’re Lying, and Here’s How

Yes, dentist, I have been brushing twice per day. Yes, dentist, I do floss. Are you lying? There’s no point; your dentist is going to know!

Your dentist plays a vital role in your life. They are there to provide advice on your oral care, to offer treatment for any problems you’re having, and to notice anything relating to oral health that could cause problems in the future. They will answer any questions you might have, but they will also ask a few to make sure they are doing all they can for you, and that you are doing all you can for your oral health.

Have you ever lied to your dentist? Most people will have at least stretched the truth. Here are some of the more common lies dentists hear, and how they know if you’re being truthful or not!

Dentist: Do you feel any pain?

Patient: No

Local and general anaesthetic is useful in a dental situation for pain-free procedures like fillings. If you feel pain or discomfort during a procedure, let your dentist know. Often, your dentist can pick up body language. Flinching eyes, clenched jaws, tightened tongues, and tense legs are all signs that the anaesthetic isn’t quite enough to numb your mouth completely. Speak up, and your dentist will take action.   (more…)

By Healthy House, ago
Dental Implants

The High Price of Not Getting Dental Implants

People often talk about how expensive dental care can be, is, or might be. While the price is relative to treatment options and service, there can often be an even higher price associated with not seeing dentists for treatment. This can be particularly true for patients who require dental implants but are yet to get them.

What’s holding you back? Are you scared? Are you unsure what’s involved in receiving dental implants? Are you unfamiliar with what the benefits of dental implants could be? Believe it or not, getting dental implants can be far more affordable and desirable than the alternative – doing nothing at all.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the foundation for replacement teeth. Dentists insert metal frames or posts into your jawbone beneath the gum line. These implants fuse to the bone and become a sound foundation for new teeth. Unlike dentures, they don’t shift or slip around in your mouth but, instead, take the place of your old teeth that may have been lost to an accident, injury, or decay.

Bone Deterioration

When you lose a tooth, the last thing you’re possibly thinking about at that time is what you are going to do to fill the gap. Your mind might be more focused on the extraction process, instead. However, the sooner you start thinking about dental implants, the sooner you can avoid problems associated with missing teeth. One of which is bone deterioration.

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By Healthy House, ago

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Missing Tooth

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian adults are missing an average of 4.5 teeth. The older someone is, the fewer teeth they seem to have. It might appear normal or natural to have missing teeth, but when a dentist can ensure that you have a full set, why would you ever choose to have less?

Not only do aesthetics come into play, but so too does your oral health. Read on to learn why you shouldn’t ignore a missing tooth. The sooner you can see your dentist, the better it will be for your overall health.

Gum Disease Risk

Your mouth is a warm, wet place and, as such, is a breeding ground for bacteria. When you lose a tooth, a wound remains in your gum tissue. Therefore, you are at a higher risk of infection with a missing tooth, than if that tooth remained in place.

Gum infections are painful and inconvenient, but they can also lead to gum disease. Gum disease causes your gum tissue to recede, which can even lead to further tooth loss.

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By Healthy House, ago
Maintaining Mental Health

Five Tips for Maintaining Mental Health When Being Harassed

Workplace harassment and racial discrimination are serious issues that can have a severe impact on peoples’ mental health. Although Australian law protects employees from racism in the workplace, it occurs nonetheless.

Although a lot of people seek professional legal and medical help when workplace problems become too much, the mental health impacts can stay with a person for a significant length of time. Because of this, we decided to put together the following list of our top five tips for maintaining strong mental health in the face of harassment. They include:

  1. Making Sure You Sleep Properly

Poor sleep is a major contributor to poor mental health. Ensuring you sleep properly will help you maintain a good mental space, even in the face of discrimination.

For example, avoid drinking too much alcohol before bed. Although you may feel like drinking helps you sleep better, it doesn’t. Even if you feel like you’re sleeping longer and waking up less, your quality of sleep will be significantly decreased.

  1. Reduce Alcohol Consumption

In fact, it’s a good idea to stop drinking altogether if you’re suffering from poor mental health due to harassment. If you start drinking, it’s very easy to fall into a downward spiral leading to alcoholism and other problems.

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By Healthy House, ago
What to Do if You Break a Tooth

What to Do if You Break a Tooth

One minute you’re chowing down on your favourite meal, and the next, you’re biting into a piece of your own tooth. It’s never nice finding out that you’ve broken a tooth, especially if you think that the only course of action is to see your dentist for an extraction.

Believe it or not, a broken tooth is not a cause for stress or concern. Your dentist can walk you through a range of options that might be suitable for your unique situation. You’ll be back smiling with full confidence in no time.

Fillings

You might think that a filling is only a suitable dental procedure for a cavity, but it can actually be useful for a broken tooth, as well. The dentist uses the restorative filling material to fix a cracked or broken tooth.

It’s painless, affordable, and relatively straightforward. Your dentist will talk you through the process, but their goal is to mold the filling material into the shape of the missing piece of your tooth.

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By Healthy House, ago