When it comes to fitness, the statistics are damning. Almost a third of adult Americans are considered inactive. They rarely walk, never swim, run or jog, or do any physically challenging task. The result of this disaster is 30% obesity — which is about 90 million people. The problem starts with what we eat to how we eat it. For example, a typical American meal exceeds the recommended calorie uptake. If you don’t burn the calories, the chances are that you will have health complications.

Exercising is not an easy task; at least two in every three people who start an exercise regime quit before completing 12 weeks. There are genuine reasons for quitting physical exercises, but the majority of the people only give excuses. Part of the blame comes from lack of mental preparedness. For some, the thought of working out gives them nightmares, and it can even lead to depression.

If you have found yourself in a situation where you need an exercise program — we all are — consider the following things.

What resources will I need to commit?

The most important resource is time. You must make time for your program. Most programs will require at least half an hour a day to complete. If you cannot slot that time on your calendar, then it will be difficult for you to realize the benefits of the exercise. Remember, if you don’t see results, you will certainly quit.

You don’t have to exercise every day, though. Some programs can be done bi-weekly or three times. If your schedule is chaotic, involving a lot of movement from one location to another, you can consider such programs. However, these exercises work best for fit people. If you are just starting out, regular programs are necessary.

Also, consider how you will pay for your fitness program. Some gyms are not affordable for everyone, especially high-end ones.

Can my body handle the program?

Before starting out, get a medical opinion. A few tests can help you know the state of your body. Some fitness regimes can be very rigorous. If you have an underlying medical problem such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, arthritis and such conditions, you may require a professional to tailor-make your regimen to suit your needs.

People who have had surgical procedures, pregnant women, people above 40 years, and people with any form of disability should consult a medical doctor before starting any program, however light it is — unless it is just walking.

Even when you are cleared to do a workout, exercise caution and rationality when attempting vigorous tasks such as weightlifting. You can easily injure yourself in a gym; getting fit is a marathon — don’t attempt to sprint to the finish line.

What are my goals and objectives?

There are many goals that you can choose from — some want to lose weight, others want to add. Some want to look great while others just want to be healthy. Some of the most popular fitness programs involve strength training, muscle building, body shaping, etc. It is up to you to know what you want. The rule of the thumb when it comes to goal setting is to be simple, realistic, measurable, and sustainable. If you already have 150 pounds, cutting 30 pounds is realistic and measurable, but extremely difficult and unsustainable for most people. If you set a goal of cutting it to 140 pounds, toning the muscles and shaping out, that would tick in all the boxes if you give yourself ample time to achieve it.

How will I handle obstacles?

You will face serious challenges along the way. Family and work will bog you down, the body will resist, friends will discourage you, and your lifestyle might suffer, too. When these times come, you will need a plan to navigate them all. Balancing work, family, and workout can be chaotic. So, plan how you will overcome disruption.

Some obstacles are not avoidable, such as disease. Take time off to recuperate if an illness strikes you in the middle of your program. Notice that exercise requires extensive and elaborate nutritional support. You will need a good plan for how you will organize your eating habits.

Is this program realistic for me?

Each program requires tools and equipment. Some need training and support. Whichever the case, make sure that you can get all the resources you require to do the workout safely and effectively. There is a temptation to work around some tasks using the wrong or DIY tools. Refrain from this temptation. You can injure yourself in the process.

For starters, do your research properly. Know what is available within your locality before committing. If you have to commute far away, you will consume valuable time that you can use for your workout. If you prepare mentally, the chances are that you will achieve your goals no matter the challenges.

Major injuries occur in car accidents, in work-related accidents, and almost anywhere circumstances are unfortunate. You certainly don’t want to become involved in an accident, fall, or other situation resulting in a major injury, but it happens. The medical bills, the time lost at work, lost wages, and even your future become immediate sources of stress when a major injury occurs, and that’s why so many people make the decision to call an attorney to discuss their injury. The financial stress, the mental stress, and the physical stress of this sort of injury can take a serious toll, and seeking professional help is often the only reasonable step.

Seek Professional Help

It’s not easy to get back on your feet after a major injury without support. Attorney Erik Abrahamson states “Traumatic injuries not only physically affect the victim, but also emotionally and financially. This is why we strive to achieve the compensation a client deserves- in hopes of restoring and helping their situation.”

If your injuries are the result of an accident caused by someone else, seeking help from a personal injury attorney is the logical step. You want to know your medical bills are paid for, time lost at work is something you’re compensated for, and any future medical bills are covered if your injury is that severe. An attorney can answer your questions and help you recover emotionally and financially.

Understand Your Limitations

One of the most difficult aspects of overcoming any physical injury that’s major is the mental block you feel. Your life has changed significantly, and it’s only fair to allow yourself time to grieve and feel the frustration from this. Now allow yourself a chance to understand what is blocking your healing in a mental capacity. Whether it’s the fear of the unknown, the fear of being different, or just the scary changes happening in your life, it’s time to acknowledge them and face them head-on.

Focus on Positives

It’s easy in a situation like this one to focus on the things that hurt, the things that have changed, and the things that aren’t going well. To fully recover from a major injury, you’re better off focusing on the positives in your life. Understanding sometimes it’s the smallest steps that lead to the biggest steps can help you focus on your recovery with a better attitude. While a better attitude might not be high on your list of priorities, it can help you with your recovery.

Seek Support

Now is not the time to allow your pride to take over. Allow yourself time to properly heal and recover by accepting help when it’s offered. Let your family help you take on things that need your attention, help with the kids, and help around the house. The more rest you get the faster your body is able to bounce back. Let people help, let go of your pride, and learn to accept you need the additional help so your body can recover from your injuries quickly and efficiently.

See the Doctor

Don’t skip doctor appointments. Not only is this dangerous for your recovery and your injuries, it’s damaging to any case you might decide to bring against the person or company responsible for your injuries. If you routinely skip or cancel appointments with the doctor, it might appear as though your injuries aren’t as severe as they are. You’re also not taking them seriously, which is a devastating way of hindering your ability to heal. Your doctor is the best solution to your problems, and it’s also important to follow his or her instructions perfectly following all appointments.

Major injuries are life-changing in many instances, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have hope. You can get back on your feet, but you need to understand what your injuries mean for your future. It’s more than just your physical abilities. It’s all mental, emotional, and it’s even financial. Find help. Ask questions, and accept the offers of others to help you get through this difficult time.

Just like your lifestyle changes during the winter, so should your home. It’s always recommended to be prepared for anything that can happen during this season. As you probably already know, heavy snowfall can cause a number of problems, including burst pipes and an overworked furnace. Winter is supposed to be a season when you stay cozy and enjoy some peace. However, you won’t be able to do that when you get stressed over high utility bills that arrived because you didn’t prepare your house properly.

Check Your Heating System

The first thing that you should do to prepare your house for the winter is check your heating system. It doesn’t matter the type of system you use, it’s important to call a professional who will inspect it before the seasons starts. After all, you don’t want to have problems with it in the middle of the winter and pay a lot of money for an emergency repair.

Keep in mind that many people have their heating systems inspected every year, so it’s recommended that you call a technician ahead of time in order to get everything sorted out quickly. If you don’t want to spend money on a technician, then you can try checking the heating system yourself.

Program Your Central Heating

Knowing how to use your central heating during the winter is extremely important if you want to save on your energy costs. The best way to do this is to first set your thermostats at a temperature you and your family feels comfortable. After everyone gets used to it, you should lower it by one degree each week until you reach an energy-efficient temperature. For example, during the day, you should aim for 68° F (20° C). On the other hand, it’s best to keep the temperature at 62° F (17° C) during the night.

It’s worth noting that there are also quite a few other ways to save on your energy costs while staying warm during the winter, like opening your curtains during the day or layering up.

Install Weather Stripping

Weather stripping represents an excellent way to seal the warm air in your home. On top of that, it will also keep the cold air out of your home. The great thing about weather stripping is that it’s very easy to install and it is available in almost any hardware store. By installing it around your doors and windows, you’ll be able to successfully prevent air leaks.

Seal Furnace Ducts

If you have leaky heat ducts, then your house will be harder to keep warm. On top of that, you will start getting higher utility bills. Keep in mind that around 20-30% of the air that moves through your duct system gets lost because of holes and leaks. It’s worth noting that you won’t be able to reach all of the ducts, since some of them are hidden in the floors and ceilings. However, you can seal the ones in the crawl space and attic.

Replace Your Furnace Filters Every Month

Having dirty furnace filters will not only increase your heating bills, but it will also reduce the efficiency of your furnace. Although you should change them every three months during other seasons, furnace filters need to be changed monthly during the winter.

Invest in a Roof Rake

If you usually get a lot of snow during the winter, then you should definitely get a roof rake to keep it from building up. Know that the average roof is able to handle only up to four feet of snow before it starts to become a problem.

Lower the Hot Water Temperature

By lowering the how water temperature, you will reduce the risk of accidental burns. Keep in mind that most hot water heaters are usually set to 140° F (60° C), but you can lower the temperature to 120° F (48° C) and still use it for doing dishes, washing clothes, and bathing.

When it comes to fitness, the statistics are damning. Almost a third of adult Americans are considered inactive. They rarely walk, never swim, run or jog, or do any physically challenging task. The result of this disaster is 30% obesity — which is about 90 million people. The problem starts with what we eat to how we eat it. For example, a typical American meal exceeds the recommended calorie uptake. If you don’t burn the calories, the chances are that you will have health complications.

Exercising is not an easy task; at least two in every three people who start an exercise regime quit before completing 12 weeks. There are genuine reasons for quitting physical exercises, but the majority of the people only give excuses. Part of the blame comes from lack of mental preparedness. For some, the thought of working out gives them nightmares, and it can even lead to depression.

If you have found yourself in a situation where you need an exercise program — we all are — consider the following things.

What resources will I need to commit?

The most important resource is time. You must make time for your program. Most programs will require at least half an hour a day to complete. If you cannot slot that time on your calendar, then it will be difficult for you to realize the benefits of the exercise. Remember, if you don’t see results, you will certainly quit.

You don’t have to exercise every day, though. Some programs can be done bi-weekly or three times. If your schedule is chaotic, involving a lot of movement from one location to another, you can consider such programs. However, these exercises work best for fit people. If you are just starting out, regular programs are necessary.

Also, consider how you will pay for your fitness program. Some gyms are not affordable for everyone, especially high-end ones.

Can my body handle the program?

Before starting out, get a medical opinion. A few tests can help you know the state of your body. Some fitness regimes can be very rigorous. If you have an underlying medical problem such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, arthritis and such conditions, you may require a professional to tailor-make your regimen to suit your needs.

People who have had surgical procedures, pregnant women, people above 40 years, and people with any form of disability should consult a medical doctor before starting any program, however light it is — unless it is just walking.

Even when you are cleared to do a workout, exercise caution and rationality when attempting vigorous tasks such as weightlifting. You can easily injure yourself in a gym; getting fit is a marathon— don’t attempt to sprint to the finish line.

What are my goals and objectives?

There are many goals that you can choose from — some want to lose weight, others want to add. Some want to look great while others just want to be healthy. Some of the most popular fitness programs involve strength training, muscle building, body shaping, etc. It is up to you to know what you want. The rule of the thumb when it comes to goal setting is to be simple, realistic, measurable, and sustainable. If you already have 150 pounds, cutting 30 pounds is realistic and measurable, but extremely difficult and unsustainable for most people. If you set a goal of cutting it to 140 pounds, toning the muscles and shaping out, that would tick in all the boxes if you give yourself ample time to achieve it.

How will I handle obstacles?

You will face serious challenges along the way. Family and work will bog you down, the body will resist, friends will discourage you, and your lifestyle might suffer, too. When these times come, you will need a plan to navigate them all. Balancing work, family, and workout can be chaotic. So, plan how you will overcome disruption.

Some obstacles are not avoidable, such as disease. Take time off to recuperate if an illness strikes you in the middle of your program. Notice that exercise requires extensive and elaborate nutritional support. You will need a good plan for how you will organize your eating habits.

Is this program realistic for me?

Each program requires tools and equipment. Some need training and support. Whichever the case, make sure that you can get all the resources you require to do the workout safely and effectively. There is a temptation to work around some tasks using the wrong or DIY tools. Refrain from this temptation. You can injure yourself in the process.

For starters, do your research properly. Know what is available within your locality before committing. If you have to commute far away, you will consume valuable time that you can use for your workout. If you prepare mentally, the chances are that you will achieve your goals no matter the challenges.

Whenever we use an online account, we give hackers an opportunity to siphon our confidential data. Hackers are dangerous because they can use the stolen data to intimidate you, demand huge amounts of money, and tarnish your online reputation. Therefore, account safety has become a major concern in the modern society. This guide provides essential methods that you can use to protect your accounts from cybercriminals.

1. Practice Good Password Hygiene 
One of the best ways to protect your accounts is by creating strong passwords that are not easy to guess. Creating weak passwords will give hackers a perfect opportunity to interfere with your accounts. For instance, it is not advisable to use the word “password” as your password. You should not use a similar password for different social media accounts. Moreover, after every two or three months, you should update your passwords.

2. Enable Two-factor Authentication 
Activating two-factor authentication is another strategy that you can use to safeguard your social media accounts. Also known as TFA or 2FA, this method requires further evidence from the user to prove that he or she is the owner of a particular social media account. Provided the hackers do not have the device required for authentication, such as a mobile phone, they cannot access your accounts.

3. Protect Your Confidentiality 
You should be cautious when sharing your personal information on your social media accounts. You need to know that your posts are likely to be seen by millions of social media users, including hackers. Hackers can use these details to defraud you. Additionally, you should use privacy settings to make sure that only the people you know see your posts.

4. Be Careful When Accepting New Friends 
Many people will send friend requests on your social media accounts. However, you should understand that not every person has good intentions when requesting to be your friend. Therefore, it is advisable to assess people before accepting them to be your online friends. For instance, you can visit their profiles and stalk them. If you realize that a specific social media user looks suspicious, you should not accept his or her request. Additionally, do not accept every stranger to be your friend because many hackers use this strategy to attack their targets.

5. Avoid Using the Auto Login Option 
When using any device to access your account or any other social network, you should not save your passwords or any other login details. Saving your login details on the browsers will give hackers an opportunity to steal your data. If they successfully hack into your handset or computer, they are likely to get into your social sites, steal your data, and use it for their own benefit.

6. Use a Secure VPN 
With the right tools and a little bit of hacking knowledge, any person can access your devices and defraud you if you are not cautious. The VPN will prevent cybercriminals from monitoring your online activities because it hides your real IP address. It is advisable to read online customers’ reviews when selecting a VPN for your computer, which will enable you to make an informed decision.

Are you feeling confused by your recent weight gain? Many people mistakenly believe that the concept of gaining weight is simple; you are eating more calories than you are burning.

While this may be partially true, many other factors could be working behind the scenes to produce those extra pounds.

1. Lack of Sleep

For some people, weight gain may be related to not getting enough sleep.

Feeling tired throughout the day may cause you to overeat. Snacking, especially on high-calorie or sugary foods, seems to be a quick fix for those dips in energy. Although it helps in the moment, those snacks can really rack up the calories.

Also, the longer you are awake, the more opportunities to eat. Late-night snacking in front of the television can be detrimental to your waistline.

Lack of sleep also affects hormones in the body. Two of these hormones, leptin and ghrelin, are responsible for appetite regulation. If these are out of balance, you may find yourself hungry more often and unsatisfied when you do eat.

Several studies have examined the link between sleep deprivation and weight gain; although more research is needed, there is a definite correlation between the two.

2. Stress

When your body is under stress, it produces more cortisol. Cortisol helps regulate blood sugar and metabolism, among other things. Too much cortisol can cause wide fluctuations in blood sugar and stimulate your appetite, causing overeating.

Many people under stress seek food for comfort. Unfortunately, these food choices tend to be unhealthy. Also, people under stress do not have the time or energy to think about food and will eat whatever is quick and convenient.

Research has been able to link chronic stress with weight gain. One recent study published in Obesity (2017), examined cortisol levels and their effect on weight gain over time. Those with higher cortisol levels were more likely to have an increased body mass index and a larger waist circumference. Also, those who were overweight or obese were more likely to remain that way.

3. Skipping Breakfast

You may think skipping breakfast will help you shed those extra pounds. Missing a meal means fewer calories, right?

Skipping breakfast may actually cause you to gain weight. First, missing breakfast may cause your metabolism to slow down. Your body recognizes when its not being fed and stubborning clings to fat for later use.

Also, if you skip breakfast, by lunchtime, you may be voraciously hungry. At this point, health-conscious choices and self-restraint go out the window. You may eat whatever you can get your hands on. Then, you may have to eat larger amounts of food until you feel satsified.

4. Medications

Medications, like antidepressants, may be causing you to gain weight. Diabetes medications, mood stabilizers, corticosteroids, anti-seizure medications, beta blockers, and allergy medications may also cause weight gain. See your doctor if you have concerns about your medications.

5. Mindless Eating

Mindless eating can really add extra calories to your diet. Maybe you absentmindedly finish your toddler’s breakfast. Next, you walk by the candy dish at work and grab a handful of M&Ms. At lunch, you scroll through Facebook, plowing through a bag of chips, oblivious to the fact that your body was full fifteen minutes ago. Later, you may congratulation yourself on refusing to eat a freshly-baked cookie, all the while forgetting about the large amount of cookie dough that never quite made it to the oven.

Somehow, all of these bites, licks, and tastes don’t seem to count in our minds. But day after day of mindlessly eating has the potential to silently pack on the pounds.

6. Drinking Your Calories

Drinks can be a hidden source of calories in your diet. You may mentally excuse them because they don’t require chewing. However, pop, sugary coffee drinks, energy drinks, and alcohol can add up to hundreds of extra calories over the course of a day and thousands throughout the week. Even seemingly healthy drinks like juices and smoothies can boast a hefty calorie-punch.

Also, the sugar in many of these drinks can have disastrous effects on your blood sugar. High spikes in your blood sugar will cause the body to produce more insulin to help counteract the sugar. This surge in insulin will quickly drop your blood sugar, making you feel falsely hungry.

7. Low Thyroid Hormone

For some people, unexplained weight gain may be related to low levels of thyroid hormone; a condition called hypothyroidism. If low levels of thyroid hormone are produced, the body’s metabolism slows, resulting in weight gain.

Awareness is Key

If you find yourself gaining weight and you are not sure why, take a good honest look at your diet and lifestyle. Pay attention to every single thing you put in your mouth; not to obsess, but to gain awareness of those hidden calorie traps.

Evaluate your sleep habits and stress levels. Educate yourself on your medications and see if they could be contributing to weight gain. Speak to your doctor about any specific concerns you may have.

Good quality sleep, and a sufficient amount of it, is necessary for optimized health. It can affect weight, mood, and hormone levels; a dearth of it has been tied to a variety of complications. Sleep is nourishing and restorative; it is life’s fuel. Sleep deprivation also deprives insomnia sufferers of a basic and necessary type of sustenance. Understanding the problem, and undertaking some simple steps, can lead to better sleep and a healthier life.

A Pandemic Problem 

According to NPR, more than 60 million Americans deal with the struggle of getting a good night’s sleep. The Young Independents cites The Sleep Council 2013 report that found 70% experience fewer than 7 hours of sleep a night, while the average adult requires 7-9 hours, and a third of the study only managed 5 or 6 hours. The problem is widespread and has a lasting, devastating effect on health, lifestyle, daily activities, and safety.

Contributions to Insomnia 

The Huffington Post lists the underlying cause of sleep loss and disturbance as anything from anxiety and stress to depression, pain, medical conditions, prescription medications, nicotine, caffeine, supplements, or poor sleeping habits. It can be a surprise to find that the habits surrounding sleeping and leading up to bedtime might be either causing or worsening insomnia.

Complications of Insomnia 

Insomnia can result in many problems. It is tied to greater risks of illnesses, infections, diseases, and accidents. In fact, driving while sleepy has been found comparable to driving with a 0.08 blood-alcohol level, which is considered the legal limit for intoxication in several states. Poor sleep can be a contribution to heart disease, which in turn may interrupt sleep. It has also been tied to stroke and high blood pressure. Sleep debt or decreasing sleep quality can impact appetite controls and result in overeating. Sleep loss is also linked to an increased possibility of diabetes, as it decreases insulin sensitivity.

Setting the Slumber Scene 

The Mayo Clinic recommends creating a restful environment to ensure sound sleeping. This tends to mean dark, quiet, cool, and well-ventilated. Light exposure can cause difficulties in achieving and maintaining sleep. Blackout curtains or blinds, additional window dressings, and eye masks can help if light is unavoidable. A tidy room without technology is more conducive to slumber. Even alarm clocks with digital displays can be a disturbance. When decorating, remember to use calming colors in soft and muted tones.

A Bed that’s Just Right 

The foundation of a solid night’s sleep is, beyond doubt, a comfortable bed. The right mattress makes a huge impact. Selections such as offered here can help find just the right sleeping surface for any individual. Put quality above price while remaining in the potential budget. The correct support is crucial. Like Goldilocks, find the bed that is not too soft or too hard, but is just right. It needs to support the spine, keeping the alignment correct, while offering conformation to your body’s contours. A new mattress should be considered every seven years according to the Sleep Council.

Daytime Adjustments 

Diet and exercise contribute to successful sleep. Avoid heavy meals within two to three hours of bedtime. Exercise during the day, but again, not within two to three hours of the time to sleep, as it energizes and can make sleeping difficult. If you must nap to help mitigate sleep loss, minimize it, taking only twenty to ninety minutes in the early afternoon. If sleepiness strikes just after dinner, take up a mildly energizing activity such as phoning a friend or washing the dishes.

Bedtime is time to relax and wind down. Consider a warm bath or shower just before bed to stimulate the body’s reflex for sleeping when the body temperature lowers. Avoid digital screens that give off blue light, or use amber-tinted glasses to block the disrupting blue rays. Psychology Today reminds that if sleep fails to come, avoid becoming annoyed or anxious. If you attempt forcing yourself to sleep, you can fall into a cycle of aggravation. If sleep doesn’t come after twenty minutes, get up for half an hour and then try again. Following these steps, and understanding the scope and causes of the problem, can lead to a solid night’s rest.

You probably read about which foods you should avoid often. Even though it’s always important to stay informed about what you shouldn’t eat, it’s just as important to know which foods you should start eating or consuming more regularly. Here are 6 foods to support a healthy lifestyle.

Artichokes

Artichokes are a vegetable notable for having the highest antioxidant content out of all veggies. They are a great source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, folate, and vitamins C and K. Despite the fact that they are packed with a lot of nutrients, artichokes are low in calories. Since they contain a lot of powerful antioxidants like polyphenols, rutin, and quercetin, they can significantly strengthen your immune system.

Artichokes have an excellent effect on the digestive system thanks to a compound known as cynarine, which helps your body absorb vitamins and digest fats. Consuming this vegetable will help widen your blood vessels, thus helping them carry more oxygen to your brain. This results in improved cognitive function. Artichokes are also known for their positive effects on bone and liver health.

Walnuts

Even though all nuts are healthy, walnuts are without a doubt one of the best snacks you can eat. They are a great source of manganese, copper, iron, vitamin B6, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, and zinc. One of the most notable health benefits of walnuts is improved cognitive function. Due to its nutritional density, they can help prevent mental health problems like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Other health benefits of walnuts include a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and improved heart health.

Avocados

It is believed that avocados were even more widespread a long time ago. Nevertheless, they are still extremely popular and go well with a lot of different dishes. They are a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin B-6, fiber, and vitamin C. You may have heard that they contain a lot of fat, but keep in mind that they’re filled with the healthy kind of fat.

Consuming this food can lead to a stronger immune system thanks to the important nutrients it has, especially antioxidants like epicatechin, neochrome, and violaxanthin. The healthy fats in avocados can lead to lower bad cholesterol levels, while the fiber aids in digestion and stimulates digestive and gastric juices, making nutrients from other foods be consumed in a more effective way.

Coconut Oil

Even though olive oil is healthy and popular, coconut oil is a better option for when you’re preparing meals. Coconut oil is known for increasing fat burning, killing harmful pathogens, and boosting cognitive function. Since it offers a lot of health benefits, you can also take coconut oil supplements. Websites like HealthRanks.org offer excellent reviews on a wide variety of supplements, including coconut oil.

Basil

It’s always important to add herbs and spices whenever you’re preparing a meal. Not only will they improve the taste of you dish, but they’ll provide you with many health benefits as well. Basil is without a doubt one of the healthiest herbs you can consume. It is rich in vitamin K, copper, calcium, manganese, and vitamins C and A.

According to research that was presented at the British Pharmaceutical Conference in Manchester back in 2008, basil can prevent the harmful effects of aging. More specifically, it can destroy harmful molecules around the liver, heart, and brain. This herb has great anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent serious diseases like cancer, arthritis, and heart issues. If you’re suffering from diabetes, you can benefit from consuming basil, since it decreases glucose levels.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the healthiest spices you can consume. It goes well with many sweet dishes, as well as coffee. This spice is rich in calcium, iron, fiber, and manganese. It is also loaded with powerful antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the health benefits of cinnamon include a lower risk of heart disease and improved brain health.

Property taxes are on the rise, and one study found that 60% of U.S. properties are over-assessed. This means that there’s a high chance your home’s assessment is causing you to pay higher property taxes every year.

Errors in the assessment process may be to blame.

1. Request a “Property Card”

You’ll want to go down to your local assessor’s office. When you’re at the office, you’ll want to ask for your “property card.” This card may be available online, too. What this card does is provide a worksheet on how the property’s value was determined.

Review the card or worksheet looking for any blatant errors that may exist.

There are some cards that may have errors in:

• Home square footage
• Number of garages
• Features

You may find that the home is being assessed on a four-bedroom home’s value, but your home only has three bedrooms. If you find any blatant errors, you’ll want to bring it to the attention of the assessor.

2. Take Advantage of Tax Breaks

A reputable accountant may be able to help you tackle your property tax increase with the use of tax breaks. You’ll need to discuss your options with your accountant, and for some, new tax laws only allow for a percentage of your property tax to be deducted from your taxes.

But there are a few other options:

• Home offices can be deducted from your taxes
• Spaces can be rented for additional income

An accountant may also help you find ways to cut back on tax obligations in other areas to lower your tax bill further.

3. Hire an Attorney to Appeal the Property Taxes

Attorneys are available that will help you fight the appeal. These professionals know the ins and outs of property tax laws, so they’ll be able to assess your property tax bill and determine if an improper assessment has inflated the cost of your tax bill.

“In Cook County, residential properties are taxed using computer valuation programs, but industrial and commercial properties are completed individually using spreadsheets that group properties by neighborhood. This system creates room for error that commercial property owners can use to appeal their tax bill,” explains Law Offices of Gary H Smith, P.C..

The help of an attorney makes the appeals process as hands-off as possible.

4. Avoid Adding on to Your Home

Adding an extra bathroom or room in your home may sound like a great idea, but if it’s not necessary, it may be best to avoid these addons. When you add on to your home, you’ll trigger a reassessment of the property’s value.

And a home that has a new bathroom or bedroom will be valued higher than it was before the addition was complete.

You can view the addition as a long-term investment because your home’s value will be higher, but then you’ll also be responsible for a higher tax bill. You need to weigh your options: whether you want to pay higher taxes, or sell the home for a higher price.

Also, avoid any costly home-improvement projects prior to a property reassessment to keep your taxes lower until the next assessment occurs.