Monthly Archives: September 2019

5 Marketing Strategies That Are Now Outdated

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Marketing is constantly evolving. While there are plenty of new strategies coming in, there are also plenty of older strategies that are becoming obsolete as a result. Here are just a few once-popular strategies that are now outdated – and what you should be doing instead.

Brochures

Companies used to publish brochures and catalogues as informational guides to products and promotions. Nowadays, brochures are regarded as a waste of paper – especially given that they serve the exact same purpose as a website.

Instead of building a brochure, you’re better of putting your time and money into web design. You can update a website at any time, allowing you to constantly promote the most up-to-date information on your company. Apps can also serve a similar function to brochures and could also be worth looking into.

Printed newsletters

Many companies also used to print off newsletters as a way of keeping customers updated. Nowadays, this form of marketing is also dying out due to the convenience of emails.

Emails don’t cost anything to send and are instant. Because of these benefits, many companies are now trying to persuade customers to switch to email mailing lists. A bulk email messaging tool could be the one investment you want to make, making it easier to send masses of emails at once.

Phonebook advertising

It used to be a case that the only way to find the contact details of a company was to use a phonebook. That was until online search engines came along and practically killed off phonebooks.

Appearing on the first page of Google is the modern day equivalent of having pride of place in the phonebook. Boosting one’s rankings on search engines isn’t easy and generally requires investing in SEO services. You can also pay to create search engine ads so that you’re guaranteed to rank at the top until a certain amount people click on your ad.

Billboards

You’ll still find plenty of billboards around today. However, they’re not nearly as effective at building leads as they once were. Billboard advertising is expensive and nowadays fewer people are observant due to other distractions (namely mobile phones).

There are other forms of advertising that could have better results such as PPC advertising. Given that your average person stuck in traffic is also more likely to check their phone than spot a billboard, it could also be worth pouring that extra money into mobile advertising such as SMS advertising or app development.

Cold calling

Cold calling has never been a popular form of advertising among consumers, but it did used to be effective. These days, it’s much harder to call a stranger up and sell them something. There are now fewer landlines and more mobile phones, and you can view numbers on mobile phones before choosing to pick up. There are also stricter laws when it comes to obtaining data such as phone numbers make it more catered to existing customers.

Direct emailing could be a better alternative marketing strategy to cold calling. People find this less invasive, it’s less costly and it allows you to offer more information more quickly without being cut off. Research email sales tactics and try fine-tuning this strategy instead. 

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What do you need to know about the 3 credit bureaus?

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You may already know TransUnion, Experian and Equifax are the three national credit bureaus. Simple enough. But knowing more about what they do, what they don’t do and what you can do makes it easier to navigate the credit reporting system—which can save you time, money and aggravation. Here are 3 credit bureau facts you may not know, but should.

Fact 1: Each bureau produces its own report & score.
Each of the 3 credit bureaus produces their own, separate credit report and their own separate credit score. That means one bureau’s report or score may not look like another’s report or score, especially since some creditors may report information to one or more bureaus at different times.

Why it’s important:
To get a more complete picture of your credit, you should pay attention to your credit at all 3 bureaus. And that’s why, for example, TrueCredit offers credit monitoring for all 3 bureaus.

Fact 2: There’s no such thing as a legally required free annual credit score.
But many people think there is. You are legally entitled to a free annual credit report from each of the 3 credit bureaus. But none of them come with a score. That said, when you get your annual credit report from one of the bureaus, the bureau may show you a separate offer for your credit score. That score offer may be free or carry a fee. It’s up to the bureau, but just know they’re not required to offer you a free score.

Why it’s important:
There are many good reasons to know your credit score—it shows you where your credit stands at any one time and it’s a quick way to keep up with your credit health, among other benefits. Just know you’re not entitled to it free of charge at annualcreditreport.com. Whether you can get free scores somewhere else or how much you’d pay depends on the score, seller and a lot of other details.

Fact 3: Knowing which bureau(s) to contact depends on the kind of issue.
Before you contact a bureau, it’s a good idea to know which bureau or bureaus you need to reach. And that depends on what you want to do.

  • To dispute something on your credit report, contact the bureau that produced the report.
  • To place a fraud alert on your credit files, pick a bureau, any bureau. It doesn’t matter which, because each of the 3 is required to notify the others about your fraud alert.
  • To place a credit freeze (sometimes called a security freeze), you need to contact each of the 3 credit bureaus.

Why it’s important Knowing which bureaus to contact can save you time, which is nice if you have a little time to save. But it becomes critical knowledge when your credit may be at risk or when you think you may have become a fraud victim. It pays to know what to do when every second matters.

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This article was originally published on truecredit.com.

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Taking Your Solo Business Venture To The Next Level

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The business world itself can be a terrifying place, even for the most well-established companies. Having a business on your own can be even scarier. While it may be an unnerving notion, owning a business can also be far more beneficial when it is done solo.

Today we are going to look at some of the tools available for those solo entrepreneurs out there.

Image Credit – Pexels – CC0 Licence 

Go Virtual

If you control a solo business, one of the toughest things to convey is your ability to compete with the big boys and girls out there. Luckily enough, doing this is as simple as creating an illusion.

There are solutions out there now that can make your business appear far more substantial than it is. Taking advantage of something as simple as a virtual address can give you presence. There is nothing worse for a solo business venture than having a residential address shown on their business website. Taking advantage of a virtual address can not only place you anywhere you want to be in the world, but it can also offer you PO Box service.

Another solution that will marry up to your virtual address is the use of a VOIP. VOIP systems are essential in maintaining a sense of virtual growth for any business. Voice over IP lines can provide an area code for anywhere in the world you desire and have that number diverted to a cell phone. 

VOIP lines are controlled via an APP or a dashboard on your laptop. Having access to tools like this can set a solo venture up for success.

Keep Everything Secure

The one worry of most solo ventures are taking on too much. Obviously, for larger companies, managing large amounts of customer data are far easier than it is for a smaller business. 

Situations like this often put smaller businesses off taking on too much; after all, managing tons of data does present certain risks, these risks, however, can be managed. There are solutions like https://www.realitsolutions.com/services/data-backup-solutions/ that can offer a comprehensive service in keeping your data safe.

Also finding a solution when it comes to a CRM system will pay off massively moving forward. CRM systems are a great way of managing customers and their needs while you are out on the road.

Get Your Order Management Process Right

Something that often goes overlooked by solo businessmen and women is the importance of the order management process. This process is now and always will be the beating heart of your business.

The order management process is a staged design that should be carefully set out by you. The design should show everything from your client’s ordering to the moment the product or service is safely in the hands of the client.

Having this process mapped out is so vital as it offers a streamlining to your business and quite often offers automation solutions along the way. 

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Cutting Back On The Cost Of Driving

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There could be several reasons why you’d want to cut your driving costs. A change in circumstances could call for the need to budget, or you could be simply looking to free up your cash for something else. Whatever the reason, there are a lot of ways you can save money on driving.

Take a look at some of the following ways to cut back on the cost of driving to give your finances a boost.

Switch to a more affordable car

Car payments can really eat into your budget, so if you’re looking for a simple way to free up money each month, consider buying a cheaper car. While having an expensive car is great, if you only need a car to get you from A to B, then something more affordable can just as easily do the trick. Buying a used car is one easy way to reduce your car payments, so why not shop around to help you find a good deal?

Shop around for insurance

Besides the cost of the car itself, car insurance can be your next biggest outgoing. It’s important that you shop around for the best insurance deal each time your renewal is up – you never know what kind of deals you could get from a cheaper provider. You should read more about finding low-cost car insurance so that you can get a better deal. Many providers will even offer a no claims discount, so if you’re a good driver with no history of accidents, you could save even more!

Drive less

One easy way to cut down on the cost of driving is to drive less. By carpooling or taking other forms of transport, you could reduce your fuel costs easily. Walking or cycling are excellent ways to commute to work, and as they are free, you could easily find yourself saving some money each week. Save the car for when it’s raining or you’ve got a real need for it – you’ll be surprised at how easily you could get by without one.

Go green

More and more people are looking at ways they can go green to help the environment. By investing in an electric or hybrid car, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment while also going green. Electric vehicles can be great to drive, and if you live or work near the city, it’ll be easier to find a charging point. Take a look at all of the electric vehicles on the market in 2020 to help give you a clearer idea of what’s out there.
Cutting back on your driving costs can easily save you money each month. Whether you’re saving for something in particular, or you just want to cut back, then your car and driving habits should be one of the first places you look. If you’re serious about saving money, then making some lifestyle changes is necessary, so don’t see cutting back on your car as a bad thing, see it as a positive way to take care of your financial future.

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Hemp vs Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

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Originally posted on APRIL 2, 2019 in CBD EDUCATION, CBD NEWS

hemp vs marijuana

It seems like you see the letters CBD everywhere today. You almost forget that not long ago, CBD products weren’t legal in America. What makes CBD legal comes down to its plant source. Following the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and marijuana are classified as two different substances under the Control Substance Act. That’s because the effects of hemp vs marijuana are very different. This contrast is thanks to how marijuana and hemp affect a network inside of our body, known as the endocannabinoid system. Let’s discuss the differences between hemp and marijuana.

Hemp vs Marijuana: A Difference in Genetics

While hemp and marijuana effects differ, the two plants are siblings from the same family. Marijuana and hemp are both species of the Cannabaceae genus. There are two predominant plants in the Cannabaceae family. They are Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa.

Due to it’s sturdier frame and huskier exterior, present-day hemp evolved from Cannabis sativa. Their short and stocky frame cause hemp plants to grow closer together than marijuana plants do, maxing out around 4 inches apart.

Thanks to the hardiness of their fibrous stalks and close proximity to other plants, hemp can withstand many climates. The durability of hemp allows them to reach maturity within 108 to 120 days.

While hemp is just one species of the Cannabaceae genus, marijuana, on the other hand, can be cultivated as either Cannabis indica or Cannabis sativa. That’s where it’s pickiness stops.

To best grow marijuana, you’re going to need warmer climates and more space. These cannabis family members also like breathing room–upwards of six feet between plants! Hey, maybe space is a bit of a good thing. After all, marijuana matures quicker than hemp, as these plants are ready for harvest within 60 to 90 days.

Another glaring difference between hemp and marijuana? Hemp plants are male. Whereas, marijuana is female. Maybe that’s why they mature quicker than hemp plants!

Hemp Effects vs Marijuana Effects

One last difference in the hemp vs marijuana debate might just be the most important. It involves how compounds within these plants interact with our endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system relies on a series of receptors located throughout our body. These receptors regulate everything from our mental health to hormone production to appetite.

Research indicates hemp effects are very beneficial to the system. The plant is a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids. Hemp effects also include antioxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits. This wide range of qualities is why CBD oil is popping up in everything from beauty lines to supplements to skin care.

Additional research confirms many of the benefits of hemp effects can also be achieved to some degree by marijuana as well. However, there’s one significant difference between how hemp affects the endocannabinoid system vs how marijuana affects it. This primary contrast is that marijuana triggers a psychoactive effect on the endocannabinoid system.

While marijuana can create a euphoric feeling throughout the body, hemp doesn’t have the same effect on the endocannabinoid system. Farm Bill-compliant hemp can’t get you high. The reason for such a variance in cannabis experiences comes down to two molecules–CBD vs THC.

CBD vs THC

What gives plants their distinct attributes are the network of chemical compounds within their DNA. In the Cannabis sativa family, the significant differences between plants come down to plant-based compounds known as cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids are molecules formed within the oils of the cannabis plant. They are also behind the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

As the prefix implies, cannabinoids are closely associated with the cannabis family. While other plants do have cannabinoids, none has an abundant supply as members of the Cannabaceae clan. Research indicates that the hemp plant has at least 113 cannabinoids known to humankind.

Think of cannabis plants like men and women. Both genders have estrogen and testosterone in their system. The difference in these levels is what causes one person to grow the characteristics of a male like facial hair or traits of a female such as the growth of breast tissue.

In hemp vs marijuana plants, instead of estrogen or testosterone, their molecular structure depends on the ratio of CBD vs THC.

What Causes Marijuana Effects?

Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is the THC molecule that gives marijuana its psychoactive or intoxicating characteristics. The THC molecule binds on cannabinoid receptors, creating a euphoric-like feeling on the system.

Under the Farm Bill, hemp plants must have 0.3% THC or less. Due to its low concentration of THC, hemp effects are not psychoactive.  

What Causes Hemp Benefits and Effects?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is predominant in hemp plants and the primary reason for the effects felt from hemp. It works in unison with the other cannabinoids in hemp to help bring homeostasis (balance) to our system.

Unlike THC, the CBD molecule doesn’t bind onto many receptors. Instead, it stimulates stressed receptors, causing a calming-like effect on the body.

CBD can’t get you high. In fact, due to its molecular structure, CBD can even counteract unwanted marijuana effects.   

A History of Hemp CBD Benefits on Ancestors

Back before plants were classified by species and family, our ancestors learned about herbs through trial and error. They would use plants for sustenance and eventually, for medicinal purposes. One of the earliest texts known to humankind is a Hindu work known as The Vedas. This ancient record referenced cannabis as one of the Five Essential Plants.

ancient hemp history

When our ancestors migrated, they brought this versatile plant along with them. Chinese emperor Shen-Nung seeped the leaves in a tea to experience hemp effects such as pain relief. Egyptians used cannabis to treat sore eyes. Romans applied hemp extracts to heal sores on both humans and horses.

Our ancestors who went west took hemp along for the journey. As America started colonizing, parts of the country even valued hemp as an acceptable form of payment!

Cannabis was so commonplace that in the 1800s it was an ingredient in many over-the-counter medicines. The plant even landed itself on a list of medicinal herbs in the 1850 US Pharmacopeia.

In 1850, science hadn’t evolved to the point where scientists could differentiate between hemp and marijuana. Cannabis the species was classified like one plant, and this would come to be detrimental in the hemp vs marijuana battle.

Hemp vs Marijuana and Prohibition

In the early 1900s, America was cracking down on mind-altering substances. This change in philosophy caused the country to ban cannabis. During this time, nobody was able to differentiate between hemp and marijuana. They couldn’t figure out that one plant will cause the psychoactive side effects, while the other won’t. Since no one could distinguish between the two, the cannabis ban affected both plants.

With prohibition, companies removed cannabis as an active ingredient in their over-the-counter remedies. Consequently, the masses became deprived of the CBD benefits from ingesting hemp products.

Figuring Out the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana

In the 1960s, scientists finally discovered the THC molecule. They realized this cannabinoid interacted with the body, fostering the high associated with marijuana effects.

Simultaneously, pharmaceutical companies started to grow. With the industrial revolution, companies began mass-producing medications in the same laboratories that were performing studies on these drugs. With our ever-growing reliance on pharmaceutical remedies, hemp-based care and studies seemed a thing of the past. Therefore, the need to distinguish between hemp and marijuana seemed unnecessary.   

While conventional drugs have a place in wellness, many come with a laundry list of side effects. Just watch one commercial and your head will be spinning. These unfavorable effects led many to look toward a more natural form of therapy that had our ancestors’ approval.

In 1996, medical cannabis became legal in California. However, the groundswell behind the hemp movement didn’t swing into full gear until 2012. This was a landmark year where numerous states voted in favor of medical cannabis. Even then, it wasn’t until 2014 the differences between hemp and marijuana were recognized legally. Still, the laws surrounding cannabis can be tricky and make knowing the difference between hemp and marijuana more crucial than ever.   

Hemp vs Marijuana and the Law

In 2018, Congress signed a new Farm Bill into law. A provision in this legislature saw the differences between hemp and marijuana finally recognized.

Farm Bill Opportunity swiss army knife

Photo Credit: USDA Website

The new Farm Bill reassigned the cultivation of hemp under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) instead of the Department of Justice. With this change of oversight, hemp became reclassified under the Controlled Substance Act.

During prohibition, the Controlled Substance Act classified both hemp and marijuana as cannabis. Unfortunately for those who wanted hemp CBD benefits, all species of cannabis were classified as a schedule 1 controlled substance. That categorization held hemp in the same regard as opioids and meth. It’s also a reason for the long-standing stigma surrounding cannabis products today.

Thanks to the new Farm Bill, which was signed with a hemp pen by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, hemp is currently a schedule 5 substance. While recognizing the differences between hemp and marijuana was vital for CBD legality, it doesn’t make all forms of CBD oil legal. Let’s take a look at the difference between hemp vs marijuana-derived CBD Oil.

What is the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana Derived CBD Oil?  

CBD derived from hemp plants compliant with the Farm Bill is legal in all 50 states. That’s because these hemp plants have less than 0.3% THC in their genetic makeup. Therefore, companies can use these plants to extract CBD oil without worrying about creating a formula with psychoactive properties.

Almost one-fifth of the states in our country recognizes recreational marijuana. Based on the guidelines of those states, extracting CBD oil from marijuana plants is legal. Therefore, products in states where recreational marijuana is legal may have a higher concentration of THC than the 0.3% in government-mandated hemp. Consequently, these products may cause psychoactive side effects for the person who is using them. Furthermore, the products may become illegal when they cross state lines.

While hemp got a pass during the new Farm Bill, marijuana did not. If you are purchasing CBD oil in a state where recreational marijuana is legal, check out the label. Make sure the CBD oil comes from hemp instead of marijuana.

To further complicate the situation, states which recognize medical marijuana but not recreational, also allow the extraction of CBD oil from marijuana. Medical marijuana cardholders should always have their card inside their wallet, especially when they are traveling with CBD oil. That way, if you do purchase a product in compliance with your state’s medical marijuana program, you will be in accordance with local laws in neighboring states too.

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Benefits

You must be asking yourself, why bother making CBD oil with marijuana if the plant is illegal on a federal level? That’s because there are therapeutic benefits to the THC molecule. In fact, all 113 cannabinoids in the hemp plant (including THC) are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and other micronutrients. Though THC found in CBD products is below .3% and not nearly enough to get you high, having a small amount can still provide benefits.

hemp vs marijuana products

The primary objective of cannabinoids is homeostasis (balance). They enter the bloodstream in search of angst-ridden receptors throughout the endocannabinoid system. Based on the cannabinoids interaction with the stressed-out receptor, the balance gets restored throughout the network.

Cannabinoids love homeostasis so much they try to accomplish this task as efficiently as possible. Studies suggest cannabinoids have a beneficial effect on one another. Dubbed the entourage effect, cannabinoids exhibit a natural synergy. This unique interaction is what makes the benefits of CBD oil possible for millions.  

Not all CBD oil is created equally. To know you are getting all of the cannabinoids, make sure the label says words such as:

  • Full-Spectrum
  • Broad-Spectrum
  • Whole-Plant

These labels indicate all parts of the hemp plant including its leaves, stems, and seeds were used during the extraction process. This means the formula is enriched with a load of nutrients which subpar, fly by night companies may leave out.

How to Get CBD Oil without the THC Molecule   

There are many reasons for someone to be skeptical of purchasing a product with THC. For one, you may have a sensitive endocannabinoid system. Others may be afraid of unknowingly breaking the law. If this sounds like you, you can still experience the benefits of CBD oil.

At Made by Hemp, we produce phytocannabinoid rich hemp oil without any THC. While the THC molecule does exhibit therapeutic benefits, it is not necessarily needed in CBD products, though as highlighted above can prove beneficial. 

CBD products made with CBD isolate are THC free.

Hemp vs Marijuana Uses

With marijuana being abundant in THC, it is mostly used for its psychoactive properties and medicinal benefits. States with laws allowing for both recreational and medical marijuana have laws for when, where and how to use these products.

Hemp, on the other hand, has historically been used for more industrial purposes like clothing, biofuel, food products, paper, and more. With the recent rise in popularity as a supplement, CBD derived from hemp is making this plant popular again, and helping companies like ours to educate more people on the benefits of hemp vs marijuana as a supplement.

Conclusion

Now you know the difference, spread the word! Help others to understand this important concept about the difference between hemp and marijuana. There are many epidemics going on in the world today such as deforestation, sickness and disease, opioid addiction and more which more studies and research could provide insight into how the hemp plant and its constituents could prove important in these issues and more.

Contributed Post. Article originally posted on https://madebyhemp.com/

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A Guide To Property Hunting

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Buying a property is often the biggest purchase that we make in our lives. Whether you are buying for the first time or the fifteenth time, it remains a significant commitment, which is why today we are sharing a few tips with you in a guide to property hunting. 

Image Pixabay – Pixabay License 

Begin your hunt with a clear vision of what you need

Before you start searching and looking at what is available on the market, you need to work out exactly what it is that you need from a property. We stress the word ‘need’ there, as there may be many ‘wants’ on your list, but you must focus first on your key requirements.

It might be about the space that you require, the location that you need to be in or whether it will work as a family home. Think through the reason for your purchase and then take the time to come up with a specific list of requirements that are absolutely essential in your next home before your hunt begins. 

Location means something different to everyone

Even though you might be seeking a certain location, remember that it can actually mean something different for everyone.

Whilst it is true that some neighborhoods can be in greater demand and therefore cost more to move into, this will not be the only deciding factor where location is concerned. 

You might prioritise being near to leisure and facilities such as wigwam golf or perhaps excellent schools are the key here for you. You might visit an area and be struck by how handy it is for your commute, whereas someone else might enjoy being a few miles away from their family. 

This being the case, when you are moving to a new area, take your time to familiarise yourself with all that is available. Do not assume that one person’s ‘best’ area will be best for you. Stick to your key priorities when you are looking around so that you can find the perfect location for you. 

Think both short term and long term

When many of us set out on our property hunt, we have either a short term or a long term mindset, but we need to think about both in order to buy successfully.

In the short term, how would this house work for us in our current lives? What would our commute be like? Where would our furniture go and what would we redecorate when we move in? Importantly, if the market shifted next month, would this still be a viable option for us? 

We then need to think longer term. Is this house likely to work for us if changes come along in our lives? How long can we see ourselves here? What changes are afoot in the neighborhood, or can we see an upturn or downturn in the property market. Of course with this one it is harder to predict changes, but it is worth thinking them through to help you to evaluate whether this is the right buy for you.

We need to know that this is the right house for us now, personally and financially, and that it makes sense for us to buy. Equally, if we plan to be here over the longer term, or have no option but to be here over the long term, is this still a sensible choice?

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Magnesium Glycinate: Supplement Guide

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Originally authored by Jamie Witherby • Posted on hvmn.com on June 11, 2019 • 7 min read

You know those nights. The ones you wake up in the middle of, clutching your knees to rock yourself back asleep. It’s not a nightmare that roused you. It’s something much, much worse: leg cramps.

The pain is sudden, searing, and seemingly out of your control. But those calf contractions could be trying to tell you something. Muscle cramps are frequently a sign of magnesium deficiency in healthy adults.

In this article, we’ll discuss what magnesium is, why it’s crucial for optimal health, and how pairing it with glycinate makes it the ideal supplement form.

Meet Magnesium

Scoring an atomic number of twelve, magnesium (Mg) is a silver-white metal from the alkaline family. Its strong-yet-lightweight structure, high melting point (1,202°F), and brilliant white flame make it a hot choice for alloys in the aerospace industry, especially gearboxes for helicopters and other aircrafts.

Magnesium is the ninth most abundant element on the planet and the fourth most abundant cation (positively charged ion) in our bodies.

Over half of our magnesium lives in our bones, another quarter in our muscles, and the rest in our soft tissues and extracellular fluid (fluid outside the cells).4

You also eat this metal every day. Or at least you should. Magnesium is a critical cofactor for over 300 enzyme systems, including synthesizing proteins, regulating blood pressure, and controlling blood sugar levels. You probably didn’t know you were so dependent on this mineral, but you can’t do much without it; it’s required for aerobic and anaerobic energy production. Want to keep your healthy bone structure? Magnesium. Need to synthesize some RNA? Magnesium. Care to maintain nerve and muscle function? Magnesium.5 You get the picture. It’s an understatement to say magnesium has some pretty crucial health benefits.

Unfortunately, it’s not as abundant in our diets as it should be. The Food and Drug Administration estimates that up to 68% of people in the United States are magnesium deficient. Knowing which supplement to take is hard

Magnesium Deficiency is Everywhere

Before we dive into the problems of magnesium deficiency, let’s review some foods that are great forms of magnesium. Spinach, Swiss chard, and other dark greens are a saturated source of your daily magnesium. Go nutty with almonds, Brazil nuts, and cashews, too. Fiber-rich choices include beans, legumes, and filling whole grains. And the food that really puts the “yum” in magnesium? Dark chocolate.

But even if you’re eating all your leafy greens and fibrous beans to get the essential nutrient, the declining magnesium levels in the soil they were grown in puts you at risk for magnesium deficiency.6

Magnesium levels in soil are declining because of modern farming practices;6 overuse of the soil disallows it from restoring its natural mineral content before being used to grow food again. By the time vegetables are washed and transported, their meager magnesium content is laughable.7

Other produce processing techniques can strip away the food’s magnesium levels, like bleaching whole grains and overcooking greens.8 Even common medications such as antacids, antibiotics, and diuretics can affect the body’s ability to absorb magnesium or increase your renal (kidney) excretions of the precious mineral.3

The good news? The metal can be found in regular old drinking water—up to a tenth of your daily magnesium intake. The bad news? Purification practices are a little too efficient, so most of the magnesium content never even crosses your lips. But stick with water for a better chance of getting your recommended intake as coffee and alcohol increase your body’s demand for it.3

an image of a field, someone cooking, and a basket of grains showing that magnesium is being stripped from our food based on modern farming practices

Hypomagnamesia Symptoms

If you’re worried that you could have low magnesium levels, here are some medical conditions and symptoms of magnesium deficiency:4

  • Fatigue
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Depression
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle weakness
  • High blood pressure
  • High blood sugar
  • Asthma
  • Impaired exercise performance
  • Irregular heartbeat

Take another look at the list—how many of these have you experienced just in the past month or so?

The problem with identifying hypomagnamesia (magnesium deficiency) is that it tends to be asymptomatic until levels drop dramatically. And even when the symptoms are present, they can easily be attributed to other factors.

On the flipside, if you’re worried that you may be getting too much magnesium from your diet, fear not; your kidneys can take care of any excess magnesium.3

Magnesium Sufficiency for Overall Health

Sufficient magnesium intake has numerous benefits. Grab a handful of spinach and a piece of dark chocolate for good measure, and let’s discuss the positives of supplementing with magnesium.

Restored Rest for the Magnesium Deficient

Let’s return to our list of hypomagnamesia symptoms. One of the big ticket items is sleep disturbances. Supplementing with magnesium has been shown to improve sleep quality in individuals with low magnesium levels.9,10

A 2002 study found that taking magnesium before bed led to an increase in slow wave sleep, which is the deepest phase of sleep characterized by delta waves and non-rapid eye movement (NREM). If you’ve ever been caught sleepwalking, you can thank slow wave sleep for its zombie-style effects on your muscles.10

Reduced Inflammatory Stress

Unfortunately, those sleep disturbances come at a greater cost than dark circles under eyelids and general crankiness. Inadequate sleep is associated with increases in multiple inflammatory biomarkers.9 These proteins or enzymes are the biomarkers that point to systemic inflammation. One of the most infamous inflammatory biomarkers is the C-reactive protein (CRP), which is an effective predictor of cardiac morbidity. As you lose sleep from a lack of magnesium, these CRPs increase, meaning you’re inflamed.11

Persistent inflammation can lead to serious chronic inflammatory systemic diseases (CIDs), such as: rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus—an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly perceives healthy tissues as a threat and begins attacking them.12 Of course, these serious disorders have complicated etiologies based on genetics as well as environment.

You can probably guess an initiative: taking magnesium can reduce the inflammation.

A 2010 study with sleep and magnesium-deprived adults found that supplementing with magnesium improved sleeping patterns and decreased the amount of CRP biomarkers found in their plasma. Their levels of inflammation went down, and which has been associated with a reduced risk for developing CIDs.9

an illustration of a book, a runner's good and a lightbulb, showing all the benefits of magnesium glycinate

Putting the Glycinate in Magnesium Glycinate

We covered magnesium, but we haven’t even talked about the other half of this powerful combo: glycinate.

Glycinate is the salt form of glycine, a non-essential amino acid that plays an essential role in both the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS). Glycine is considered to be a non-essential amino acid because the body naturally produces it, but research says our metabolic demands are higher than our abilities to produce it.13 Once chronic, glycine deficiency can lead to impairment of nutrient metabolism and impairment of nervous system function.14

Raise Your Inhibitions: Glycine in Nervous System Function

Along with gamma-Aminobutyric acid, glycine is one of the main inhibitory transmitters of the CNS. Glycine activates brain and spinal cord receptors to allow chloride into the CNS, which will inhibit the cells. Inhibition is imperative because it allows precise thoughts, movements, and attention to alter or stop a neurological response, all of which are required for normal motor and behavioral functioning.15 Glycine may also play a role in the synchronization of our circadian rhythms to influence our internal clocks.16

Bounce Back with Glycine: Tissue Treatment

Glycine is a precursor to the production of the ingredient in skin-tightening products: collagen. Collagen is the connective tissue component providing structure for your skin, cartilage, and tendons. Because glycine is so tiny (the smallest amino acid), it’s able to fit between the tight intersections of larger amino acids forming the collagen proteins. This flexibility is part of what gives your skin that youthful bounce.17

Better Sleep with Glycine

A 2006 study observed that glycine can also greatly improve sleep quality.16

But this amino acid doesn’t promise to put you to sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow or induce the deepest REM cycles. Instead, glycine has a greater effect on how you’ll feel once you get up.18 Glycine ingestion can alleviate fatigue, increase liveliness, and generate a clear-headed feeling upon waking.19

One of the possible mechanisms for ushering you into dreamland is glycine’s thermoregulatory effects.

Glycine can lower your body’s core temperature, which is one of your body’s natural mechanisms in preparation of sleep.20

Bonus round: glycine is considered safer than traditional sleeping drugs. Even relatively high doses yield no serious side effects.19

An image of Yawn by HVMN, showing how magnesium and glycinate together help you sleep

Magnesium + Glycinate are the The Perfect Pair

Magnesium glycinate is an organic magnesium salt created by combining magnesium with the amino acid, glycine.

Combine one sleep-improving mineral salt with a sleep-improving amino acid and you get—a sleep improving supplement. But it’s the details that matter. Taking magnesium in the glycinate, or salt, form is correlated with better absorption of magnesium than other common supplement forms, such as magnesium oxide.21

When you’re looking for a magnesium supplement and want to experience all the benefits of magnesium in the most efficient way, you could look for two different supplements, remember to take both before bed, inevitably forget and miss out on the benefits of supplementing with magnesium and glycinate together. Or simply take Yawn.

Yawn is a non-habit forming sleep aid featuring magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, L-glycine, and melatonin for increased sleep quality and a calming effect.

Remember that the glycinate will also help you enjoy more clarity and less fatigue when it’s time to get up, allowing you to start the day refreshed and ready to go. And because Yawn uses the most bioavailable form of magnesium, your body will be able to absorb it more easily and enjoy more of its effects.22

Magnesium glycinate supplements are usually taken in doses from 100mg – 400mg with no severe side effects reported. A high amount of magnesium is recommended for pregnant women.23 Some minor side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and diarrhea. As always, discuss your desire to begin magnesium supplementation with your healthcare professional for appropriate medical advice.

A Powerful Duo

Magnesium is an essential mineral the body uses for a majority of its basic functions, including producing the energy it takes to read this article.

Modern food processing makes it very difficult to consume the necessary daily amount, causing roughly two-thirds of the American population to be magnesium deficient, so you may need to keep an eye on your magnesium intake. Low levels of magnesium can contribute to health problems such as chronic inflammatory systemic diseases (CIDs).

The mineral and amino acid combination of magnesium glycinate can reduce the chronic disease-causing inflammation and health conditions and provide a better overall sleep experience without the adverse effects of other sleeping aids. While supplements can compensate for lack of training, using one to optimize recovery can help with better performance.

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How long do negative items stay on a report?

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Negative credit report items are automatically removed from your report. When? It depends.

When it comes to your credit health, thinking positively can go a long way. But to truly understand how your credit report affects your credit health, it’s also important to focus on the negatives. That’s because the fewer negative items on your credit report, the healthier it may appear to those evaluating it.

The first thing you should know is the national credit bureau (TransUnion, Experian or Equifax) producing a given report must remove negative items after they’ve been on your report for a certain amount of time. The questions are these: what kinds of negative items and when? The answers are not as straightforward as you may think.

Late Payments

If your report shows a late payment, that payment must be removed 7 years from the day you missed the payment.

Collections / Charged-Off Accounts

If you have an account that has been sent to collections or charged off, it will drop off of your credit report 7 years from the day you missed your first payment, not 7 years from the day the account was sent to collections or charged off.

Bankruptcies

For bankruptcies, the mention of the bankruptcy will generally remain in your credit report for up to 10 years from the date you filed. A completed or dismissed Chapter 13 bankruptcy remains on your file for up to 7 years from the date filed.

Regardless of which type of bankruptcy you file, the actual accounts included in a bankruptcy remain on your file for up to 7 years from the date of closing / last activity.

Inquiries

Though inquiries generally don’t have too much of a negative impact on your credit health, they can be seen as a drag on your creditworthiness if your report lists too many of them in too short of a time frame. Inquiries usually fall off your credit report 2 years after the date they were made.

Public Records, Generally

Civil judgments, foreclosures, forcible detainers, garnishments and attachments generally remain on your report 7 years from the date those actions are filed in a legal proceeding.

Public Records: Tax Liens

Tax liens are a little trickier. Paid tax liens will stay on your report for up to 7 years from the date it’s paid off. Unpaid tax liens, on the other hand, remain on file for as long as they remain unpaid.

To sum up, most negative items remain on your report for up to 7 years. Bankruptcies can remain on your report for up to 10 years and inquiries drop off your report after 2 years. Though the best course of action is to avoid having negative items on your report by paying your bills on time and avoiding too many credit applications, it’s a good idea to know what the rules are. That way, if you have some negative credit report items, you’ll know what to expect and what you can do to work toward healthier credit.

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This article was originally published on truecredit.com.

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Construction Site Safety: Encouraging An Adherence To Safety In Staff

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Pixabay / CC0 Licence

Construction is an industry that is well-known for the hazards it can pose, due to the nature of the work it involves. Big machines, heavy lifting, dangerous environments; it all combines to make construction one of the most challenging industries in the world. 

As a construction company owner, you undoubtedly know all of the above, and will have done all you can to keep your workforce as safe as possible. You’ll have read the safety guidelines, done the research, and gone out of your way to make sure every construction site is as safe as possible; from supplying ear defenders to every member of staff to ensuring you use commercial air scrubbers to making sure workers are breathing clean air to using signage effectively around your sites – you’ve done the work, and your sites will be safer as a result. Ideally you’ve also familiarized yourself with topics such as Ambient Air Sampling.

However, even if you are personally dedicated to safety, there is still an additional need to make sure that your staff share this commitment. Below, we’ve provided a few tips on how you can instill a safety-conscious attitude in those who work for you. 

Provide safety training and ongoing refreshers 

Ensuring that all members of staff understand the underlying principles of construction site safety is vital, and this is usually best achieved by providing thorough training to all new hires. However, training should always be continual, with refreshers and updates provided to staff on a regular basis. 

Be rigorous about following the rules yourself 

While you will no doubt do this anyway, it’s still worth mentioning due to how important it is for your workers to see you following safety guidelines. Whenever you are at a site, wear the right equipment and – if necessary – perform all the expected checks that are required. 

Encourage workers to come forward if they see safety practices being broken

Employees should know that if they witness unsafe practices on a construction site you own, they can report this to you. Make it clear to all staff that you just want to know if there is a problem, and that they should always come forward if they are concerned – after all, doing so is important for everyone working on the site. If at all possible, provide a mechanism whereby workers can report concerns anonymously, as this may help to encourage workers to come forward. 

Ask workers to raise issues with discomfort or unhappiness

Similar to the point above, workers should feel empowered to raise any issues they experience while working. If they are uncomfortable, in pain, or are otherwise finding the work troublesome to their well-being, they need to feel empowered to discuss this with upper management so that measures can be taken to try and resolve the problem. 

Involve workers in safety management 

Safety is not an issue that benefits from a “top down” approach – i.e. instructions being issued to workers and then enacted by front line staff who have not had the opportunity to contribute to the discussion. Ideally, safety should be much more inclusive, with members of staff actively involved in the decision-making process. You can ask staff to be involved in safety planning on every site you work on, and encourage regular meetings where workers can discuss existing safety practices and make amendments if necessary.

Be lenient if a staff member break the safety rules for the first time

It is not uncommon for construction company workers to penalize any member of staff who is observed to be working in a way that contravenes safety practices, but this approach can be unnecessarily harsh. While there is a need to take action if a worker continues to infringe upon safety rules, be very lenient in the first instance, focusing on correcting the behavior with additional training.

Reward positive behavior

One of the best ways to encourage an attitude of safety is to provide reward systems for good safety practices. This works particularly well for behaviors relating to safety equipment; if, for example, an employee wears all of their personal protective equipment every day for a week, then they become eligible for a reward of your choosing. 

In conclusion

Safety is something that everyone who works on a construction site needs to see as a paramount importance, and the tips above will help to encourage your employees to share your focus in this area. As a result, you should be able to mitigate many of the hazards associated with owning a construction company, and ensure that you and your workers are able to enjoy an all-around safer, healthier working environment.

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10 Top Tips For Finding The Perfect Computer For Your Business

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Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay 

When it comes to buying a computer for your business it can be hard to make the right decision. From choosing the right model to finding something that is within your price range, you need to be sure you’re choosing the best possible options for you and your business. Whilst it may seem difficult at first, there are lots of tips and tricks you can try to help ensure you’re buying the right computer for you. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to protect your office building: 

– Consider Your Budget Well In Advance

One of the best things you can do when it comes to finding the perfect computer for your business is to set yourself an overall budget. Although you may have an idea of how much you want to spend in your mind, you need to think about all of the extras that come with it. From accessories to insurance, buying a computer for your business is not cheap. For guidance when it comes to the average cost of a computer, you can visit this site here. 

– Make Sure You’re Doing Your Research

Another important thing to consider when it comes to buying the perfect computer for your business is whether or not you’re doing enough research beforehand. Whether this means researching the most affordable options or researching the best places to buy your accessories, you need to be sure you’re as prepared as you can be when it comes to making your purchase. If you’re unsure, you might find speaking to a technically-minded professional will help. 

– Consider What You’re Going To Be Using It For

When finding the perfect computer for you and your business, you need to be sure you’re thinking about what your computer is going to be used for. Whether you’re using it to complete your day-to-day errands or you’re using it to create high-quality videos or photos, you need to be sure you’re thinking about its functionality above everything else. Although you may be tempted to buy something because it’s affordable, you need to be sure it’s going to do everything you want it to do. 

– Prioritise The Features You Need

When thinking about the features of your new computer, you need to ensure you’re prioritising the ones you need most. 

Although there are computers that are all singing and all dancing, you may find that it’s just a few key features you’re looking for instead. If you’re unsure about what features you need in order to carry out your role in the business, a store assistant will definitely be able to advise you. All they need is a short description of the reasons why you use your computer. For a guide to common features of a computer, you can visit this site here. 

– Think About Where You’re Going To Be Purchasing It From

Another important thing to consider when it comes to finding the perfect computer for your business is where you’re going to be purchasing it from. Although there are plenty of great options online, you may find it more beneficial to go into a store and speak to a professional. Not only will they be able to offer you advice when it comes to choosing the right computer but they will also be able to ensure you’re getting the best deal. 

– Choose Whether Or Not You Want To Buy It Outright Or On Finance

If you’re purchasing a computer that is considerably high in price, you might want to consider buying it on finance rather than purchasing it outright. Although it will ultimately come down to the affordability of your business, you need to be sure you’re doing what is best for you. 

– Don’t Forget To Purchase Insurance 

When it comes to buying a computer for your business you need to ensure you’re also investing in insurance. Although the chance of something happening to your computer is low, the small cost of insurance will be much better than the cost of replacing your computer should something happen to it. If you’re worried about finding the right insurance for your computer, you can visit this guide here. 

– Think About Any Accessories You May Need

If you’re buying a computer for your business, chances are you’re going to need accessories. Whether it’s a high-quality webcam for conference calls or software that allows you to do your job, you need to ensure you’re factoring it into the overall cost of your purchase. If possible, you might find it is more beneficial to buy everything from the same place. Not only will it allow you to put it all under the same insurance policy with ease but it will also give you the opportunity to make your purchase as simple as it can possibly be. 

– Consider How Often You’re Going To Need To Upgrade

Although you’re not going to be upgrading your computer every year, you need to think about how often you’re going to have to upgrade in order to carry out your job efficiently. Whether it means upgrading the amount of space or RAID capacity you have or increasing the graphic capability, you need to ensure you can do absolutely everything your job requires with ease. For more information when it comes to space or for a free RAID calculators, you can visit this site here. 

– Ask Around For Opinions And Recommendations 

Finally, you might want to consider asking those around you for opinions and recommendations. Although they may not be able to suggest the perfect computer for you to purchase, they may be able to offer you advice when it comes to making the best possible decision.  If you’re still unsure about what to do, you may benefit from taking a colleague with you to make your final purchase. 

Are you looking for a new computer for your business? What do you need to consider to ensure you’re choosing the best possible option?  Let me know your thoughts and ideas in the comments section below. 

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