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It doesn’t have to be chemicals: how to remove mildew stains yourself with inexpensive home remedies.

The difference between mildew and mildew

Is the dark spot behind the cupboard mold or mold stains? Mold stains and mildew look very similar at first glance, as both are visible as brownish to yellowish or greyish discolorations on the wall, they also have a musty and musty smell. On closer inspection, however, a difference becomes clear, since most mushrooms consist of what is known as mycelium. This, in turn, is made up of filamentous cells, as evidenced by thin, coherent, and puffy filaments that continue to spread out. In contrast, mold stains do not form any visible threads, although mold is also active here. Due to a higher pressure, these show a different growth, but mold stains can form from the mildew stains over time.

Mold stains are just as harmful as mold, and not just for allergy sufferers. Irritation of the mucous membranes, sleep disturbances and lack of concentration can often be the result of mold stains. Mildew stain fungal spores can fly in the air, but will not stick to a surface. As soon as so-called mycotoxins (= metabolites) from mold stains get into the respiratory tract, this can even lead to allergies, gastrointestinal complaints and a weakening of the immune system. In return, mold stains do not cause any structural damage or optical discolouration. If such dark spots appear, it can usually

Mold and mildew mostly develop when there is insufficient ventilation and too much humidity. All factors, such as drying clothes, hot baths, cooking, but also inadequately sealed walls, leaks or holes in pipes contribute to an increase in humidity. Condensation forms, which settles on surfaces and walls, since the air can no longer fully absorb the moisture. Damp, cold and uninsulated walls in particular are the ideal breeding ground for mold stains and dangerous mould. Forced airing ensures sufficient ventilation, a hygrometer helps to determine the humidity level in the air. As soon as mold stains become visible, the cause must be sought, because in many cases mold is a side effect of the discoloration. At best, these should be removed by a specialist, because mold spores can cause significant health problems, ranging from respiratory problems to lung and heart diseases or even burnout. Furthermore, an already widespread mold infestation results in considerable additional costs, which can often lead to lengthy differences in tenancies.

Home remedies for stains

The yellowish to brownish discoloration is not only found on walls and wallpaper, mold stains can also form on wood, paper, textiles or plastic. In the case of mold, professional removal is usually essential, but mold stains can often be removed yourself with the help of household remedies or special cleaners.

However, some protective measures should also be taken here when removing mildew stains. Rubber gloves, a respirator mask and suitable safety goggles are important. Furthermore, the infested stains should not be vacuumed off or swept away, as the fungal spores can easily detach in this way. The inhalation of mold spores should also be avoided by adequate ventilation. Direct skin contact with the home remedies should be avoided due to the sometimes caustic effect. After the stains have been removed, all sponges and cloths used, as well as masks and gloves, should be thrown in the garbage immediately, ideally in the garbage can outside the apartment. Clothing should also be changed, and a shower is advisable to avoid spreading more fungal spores in the area. Other items can be cleaned and disinfected.

Mold stains can be removed from numerous objects, but can only be concealed from some, such as books. Here they appear relatively frequently, often not only on the cover, but also on the pages of the book. When pressed together leaves in a book have soaked up moisture from the environment, they provide a perfect habitat for mold stains. The exclusion of air often causes moisture damage, which can only be concealed by dusting the affected areas with starch. The flour should remain in place for some time so that it sticks to the damp stains and lightens the damaged side at least a little.

Infestation of walls, textiles and wood

Already in earlier times there were stains and mold growth. To this day, some very useful home remedies that have been used since grandmother’s time to effectively remove mildew and mold have proven their worth.

wall and wallpaper
Mold stains can be removed quite easily from walls. If woodchip wallpaper is infested and is not to be changed, glass cleaner can be sprayed onto the stain. After an exposure time of five minutes, you can spray again and then rub the wall clean with a microfiber cloth. However, if the mold stains are deeper in the wallpaper, it usually cannot be saved. Woodchip wallpaper, which you can paint yourself, can still be used to a limited extent after the stains have been removed, but printed wallpaper should be replaced.

If stains are to be removed from the wall itself, you need vinegar or spirit. To do this, one of the two agents is simply placed in a small bowl, mixed with water and a clean cotton cloth immersed in it. The mold stains are then dabbed off with the cloth until they can no longer be seen. Another home remedy is a mixture of 50 grams of baking soda, 50 grams of citric acid and 150 millimeters of water. The solution is applied with a clean cleaning cloth and after half an hour it is wiped off with a lye mixture of water and washing powder. Finally, everything should be wiped off with .

On clean plaster, commercially available chlorine cleaners are suitable for removing stubborn mold stains. Mold stains on the wall are usually caused by moisture. If there is furniture in front of the infested area, move it a little further away from the wall to allow for better air circulation.

textiles and clothing
Mold stains not only appear on walls, but can also be found on textiles. These unwelcome yellow to brownish stains occur, among other things, when laundry has not been completely dried and placed in the closet. The unsightly mold stains on textiles can also be harmful to health. However, mildew stains can also be removed from clothing with simple household remedies. First of all, textiles that tolerate high temperatures can be washed at 60 degrees. In the best case, light stains have disappeared afterwards. Another inexpensive home remedy for fabric stains is buttermilk. For this purpose, the affected pieces of fabric should be placed in buttermilk for one to two days and can then be washed as usual. Vinegar not only helps with mold stains on the wall, but also on clothing and fabrics. The discolored pieces should be soaked in vinegar for one to two hours and then washed normally. Another way to counteract stains on textiles is alcohol. For this purpose, the areas with the mold stains should be soaked in it and then washed. Smaller stains can be treated with baking soda, for this purpose the areas must be moistened and rubbed with the baking soda. After the powder has dried, it can be removed with a brush. Alternatively, baking soda or baking soda can be used to combat mold stains. Another method is a mixture of water and denture cleaner, in which the laundry can be soaked. This inexpensive and at the same time effective cleaning agent has also proven itself in the area of discolored porcelain and is suitable as an alternative to baking powder. The same applies to other textiles such as seat cushion covers or blankets. In the worst case, chlorine cleaners or bleach may also be necessary for white and robust fabrics. In order to avoid mildew stains from the outset, laundry should not be left wet for too long and should not be sorted when it is damp.

wood
In the event of discoloration of wood, action must be taken quickly. Mold stains caused by water damage appear on wood in the form of gray to black or brownish discolouration, which can also be yellowish depending on the type of wood. To remove stains from varnished wood, the wood must first be cleaned with water. It should be well dry before washing the wood with a 1:1 solution of detergent and water using a brush. The wood surface will then dry and the stains should be gone. However, if these cannot be removed, vinegar can also be applied to the affected areas and allowed to act for around an hour. Finally, the area should be cleaned with water and a sponge.

If it is too late and mold has already developed from the mold stains, you must act immediately. Black mold massively damages the wood substance, it can even completely decompose it within a very short time. In addition to the health consequences, there may be other risks if the wooden components are stable or load-bearing. If the staining is light, superficial, the wood can be treated with a mixture of chlorine cleaner, vinegar essence and pure alcohol. In the case of deeper and larger infestations, a suitable fungicide from a specialist store should be used to prevent complete destruction of the wood. If stains are still visible after treatment with the cleaning agent, the mold has already penetrated deeper into the wood. The stains must be removed mechanically, which requires sanding the wood. In the case of deeper infestations, a planer can even be used in addition to the grinder. The stains must be thoroughly removed and the clean surface rubbed again with vinegar essence. After the treatment, the wood must be dried thoroughly.

Since black mold is harmful to health, care must be taken to protect yourself when removing mildew and mildew. In addition to suitable respiratory protection, work should be done outdoors if possible.

In order to avoid mildew stains on wood, wooden surfaces should be aired regularly and dried completely. Dirt must also be removed promptly. Wooden parts that are exposed to permanent weathering are more susceptible to mildew and mold growth, which is why storing garden furniture is recommended, especially in winter. Regular care of the wood and preventive mold protection are definitely recommended. Even before buying, you should pay attention to a suitable type of wood, for example hardwoods and pine species are considered to be more resistant to discoloration.

Infestation of joints, mattresses and prams

silicone joints
Even if the elastic and hard-wearing silicone is often used in homes, it is exposed to daily stress there and becomes porous over time. Even if it is considered relatively resistant to fungal attack, harmful mold can form again and again, which should be eliminated soon, especially here. Since moisture is always a perfect breeding ground for mildew and mold growth, rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and sanitary areas, are particularly affected by mold and need more frequent checks. Long-lasting moisture in combination with heat and condensation can not only cause mold to form on the windows, but also dirt often occurs on the seals and the water gets caught in the joints when it drains, which in turn promotes mold growth.

Basically, you should try to keep these areas as dry as possible. However, mold cannot always be completely removed from silicone joints. First, all gaps should be cleaned of dirt. A grout brush or toothbrush can be used to reach hard-to-reach areas. Then a mushy mixture of water and baking powder can be applied to the joints and worked in. The joint should not be damaged and the baking powder mixture should not dry out. Leave it on for an hour and then rinse off with clear water.

mattress
Unsightly and unhealthy mold stains can also form on mattresses. Reasons for mildew stains on mattresses can be a missing slatted frame, if the mattress is lying directly on the floor, moisture and moisture can accumulate. Air circulation through a slatted frame would be better. When buying a mattress, you should also pay attention to a certain level of breathability in order to rule out unfavorable ventilation and damage to health. Above all, allergy sufferers should prefer a high-quality mattress, as they can be particularly sensitive to pollen. Cold foam mattresses or gel mattresses are particularly suitable for preventing the formation of mold, a breathable cover for pillows and duvets, and regular ventilation and changing of the bed linen is also recommended. Mattress covers or bed underlays that rest on wider slats should also be adequately aired, since excessive pressure can contribute to the formation of mildew stains.

As soon as mold stains become visible on a mattress, you should act quickly, as mold can form as a result of the moisture. There are several home remedies for this: on the one hand, a solution of buttermilk can be applied to the affected areas, and direct sunlight is also often recommended as a home remedy for mold stains. However, if the mold has spread to the entire cover, the mattress must be disposed of. If the affected area is relatively small, a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water can be applied to the mildew stain. This should act on the cover for 15 minutes and then be washed in the washing machine without rinsing. White laundry and a white cover can also be washed with a bleach containing chlorine.

stroller
Clothing and textiles are not the only things that can start to mold and develop mildew due to moisture. Everyday objects in particular, which are often used in all weathers, have an increased risk of infestation. If the yellow-greenish or brownish-grey spots form on the stroller, caution is advised. There is already a health risk here. However, you don’t have to throw the car away just yet. If you don’t want to resort to a chemical solution based on chlorine bleach right away, you can use simple household remedies to counteract the unpleasant discolouration.

To do this, vinegar essence and water must be mixed in a 1:1 ratio. Instead of the vinegar-water mixture, you can also use undiluted, high-proof alcohol, such as denatured alcohol or isopropanol. Then the respective solution is applied and then the corresponding area is covered with a cloth for at least 60 minutes. To prevent the vinegar essence or alcohol from evaporating, the area can also be covered with foil. Then wash off with clear water and repeat the process until the mold stains have been completely removed. Air out the pram well and let it dry completely. Another home remedy for getting rid of mildew stains on more sensitive areas of less robust fabrics is a paste made from baking soda or baking soda and water. This is applied to the affected area with a sponge or brush and then brushed off with clear water. Here, too, the cleaning process should be repeated until the stains have been removed and the stroller allowed to dry out completely. Washable items should also be cleaned in the washing machine. Stubborn stains can also be removed with an organic mildew remover.

In order to prevent mold from forming in the first place, the stroller should be completely dry, especially after rain. For this purpose, individual parts can be removed and dried separately. Storage in a damp condition should also be avoided. For a longer storage period, attention should be paid to a cool and dry storage location with low humidity.

Lifestyle

Extreme Sweating in Summer: These Home Remedies Will Help You Against Sweat

When it’s really hot outside, we sweat a lot – often an uncomfortable situation. So what helps to stay dry in the heat?

1. Chamomile for sweaty hands

If you suffer from sweaty hands, you should try a chamomile bath.
Add a few drops of tincture to warm water daily and soak your hands in it for a few minutes. This should help you get sweaty palms under control.

2. Lemons for sweating

If you don’t have any deodorant at home or don’t want to use one – for example because of the carcinogenic aluminum in the deodorant – you can get by in other ways. Citric acid acts as a natural deodorant, making it a great home remedy for sweating. It helps to inhibit sweat production and mask the unpleasant smell.

You can either rub the armpits with half a lemon or mix the juice with water and rub it into the problem areas. After about 20 to 30 minutes, however, the juice should be washed off. Repeat this application once a day. Alternatively, baking soda can be used as it has a similar antiperspirant effect.

3. Apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for sweat odor

Apple cider vinegar is another option against sweating. Because: The astringent properties of apple cider vinegar bring the pH value of the skin back into balance and fight the bacteria that cause sweat odour.

Before going to bed, apply the apple cider vinegar to the areas where you sweat the most. It is best to use a cotton pad or something similar for this purpose. Leave the vinegar on overnight, then wash it off the next day.

4. Centaury against unpleasant smell

Another home remedy for sweating is centaury. This plant helps especially against the unpleasant smell of sweat.
The herb is best used in the form of a daily infusion, sipping about a cup of it throughout the day.

5. Sage for night sweats

Sage can help with night sweats. Pour 500 millimeters of hot water over four teaspoons of dried sage leaves daily and leave to steep for about ten minutes. Two cups of this daily should reduce night sweats.

Alternatively, the affected parts of the body can also be cleaned with sage. All you have to do is bring a teaspoon of the leaves to a boil with two cups of water, then let it cool down a bit and rub the parts of your body with the solution. And three times a day for several days.

6. Wheatgrass as a detox

Another home remedy is wheatgrass. This can be used as a detoxification cure. Because it helps flush out all the acids and toxins from the body that are the cause of sweating and the odors that come with it.

In addition, the vitamin B contained in it helps against frequent and heavy sweating by supporting the body’s natural temperature regulation system. One to two glasses of wheatgrass juice a day is sufficient for this.

If all else fails:

If you still sweat excessively for no apparent reason and none of the home remedies give you relief, then it is advisable to see a doctor to be on the safe side to find the exact cause. In some cases, hyperhidrosis is diagnosed, i.e. abnormal sweating.

Lifestyle

Get Rid of Hiccups: The Best Tips and Tricks Against Annoying Burping

Uncomfortable hiccups sometimes come out of nowhere and can be extremely annoying. We’ll tell you how burping occurs and which simple tricks and effective home remedies you can use to quickly get rid of hiccups.

This is what happens in your body when you hiccup

Babies hiccup even in the womb. However, there are different theories as to why the increased burping exists in the first place. On the one hand, it could be used to train the breathing reflex. Another theory is that this is to prevent fluid from entering the lungs.

What is certain, however, is that the diaphragm cramps during the hiccups. As a result, the glottis between the vocal cords closes reflexively. The inhaled air, which at this moment can no longer escape from the lungs, consequently hits against the closed vocal cords. According to the German Lung Foundation, this can cause the typical “hiccup” noise. Key nerves in the diaphragm (Nervus phrenicus) and in the brainstem count as triggers for the present spasm.

The most common causes: How do hiccups occur in the first place?

Hiccups can occur in a variety of situations. However, the unpleasant hiccups occur particularly frequently during or after eating – especially if the food was consumed too quickly. The belching is then caused by the increased swallowing of air. But also the immediate succession of hot and cold food or drinks can be a trigger for the spasm of the diaphragm. The situation is similar with strongly fluctuating temperature differences.

If you suffer from strong excitement or were frightened, the increased burping can also occur. Because in psychologically stressful situations, those affected usually tend to have hectic, restless breathing. Hiccups occur in a very similar way to the infrequent gulping of air when you eat too quickly. Heavy consumption of nicotine and alcohol is also a typical cause. Medications such as anesthetics or tranquilizers can also cause the unpleasant symptoms. If hiccups occur during pregnancy, the embryo is usually in a position that presses on the diaphragm.

Get rid of hiccups: These home remedies help best

A wide variety of home remedies and tips can be used as quick help against acute hiccups. Despite their differences, they all have one thing in common: the tricks are intended to distract those affected for a short time. Since hectic breathing in particular causes the diaphragm to cramp, it also helps to consciously relax it. Ultimately, the only way to find out which method is best for getting rid of stubborn hiccups is to try it out.

To get rid of hiccups, it is recommended to drink a glass of ice water or quite consciously think up answers to certain questions. These methods are intended to lead back to normal breathing through targeted distraction.
A popular home remedy for hiccups is a small portion of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice on a sugar cube. Thanks to the acid, the nerves are also briefly distracted.
If you drink fennel tea slowly, at best only by the spoonful, this can also help to get rid of annoying hiccups.
Laughter is not only fun, but also ensures a loosened and relaxed diaphragm.
If you let yourself be startled, it has a very similar effect to laughing. A jerky twitch in the event of a shock can allow the diaphragm to relax again after a brief contraction.
Holding your breath and swallowing dry several times is another good way to slowly regain control of your breathing.
Sticking out your tongue or rolling your back for a few breaths will also help calm your breathing. Both techniques ensure that breathing takes place more strongly over the abdomen and is thus more relaxed. As a result, the spasm in the diaphragm can relax.
Breathing regulation can also be achieved by holding your breath or breathing into a bag. This increases the carbon dioxide concentration (CO₂) in the blood and thus provokes deep, more even breathing. But be careful: you should not overdo it with this technique. Otherwise, circulatory problems and even loss of consciousness can result.

How to effectively prevent hiccups

To prevent hiccups, you should ensure an upright, straight posture when consuming food or drinks. You should also take your time eating and try to breathe as calmly as possible. Smaller portions also help. In addition, still, unsweetened drinks are generally better tolerated. On the other hand, carbonated liquids promote the occurrence of hiccups.

Chronic hiccups: You can do this if the burping is persistent

Usually hiccups only last a few minutes. The intensity can vary greatly – around four to 60 hiccups per minute are completely harmless. If the increased burping lasts longer than two days, experts speak of a so-called chronic hiccups. Those affected usually find this very stressful and exhausting. Not infrequently, lack of sleep and depression are the result. It is therefore particularly important that a doctor is consulted as soon as possible. Even if an exact determination of the causes of chronic hiccups is usually difficult, the symptoms can be alleviated with medication.

In some cases, other diseases are responsible for the chronic hiccups. On the one hand, these are inflammations in the esophagus, stomach or small intestine. If these are associated with swelling in particular, irritation of the diaphragm and its nerves is possible. On the other hand, nerve disorders, for example in the brain, can cause permanent restrictions and cramps in the diaphragm. In addition, hormonal diseases or infections, such as Ebola, are possible triggers for persistent, chronic hiccups.

health

What You can do Against Weak Connective Tissue

Connective tissue can become weaker with age or after pregnancy. This is how you can counteract it.

Avoid or reduce obesity

If we have too many pounds on our ribs, our inner support system is constantly being stretched. He cannot withstand the constant “pull” and is therefore becoming weaker and weaker. A healthy, slow weight reduction helps the connective tissue.
Regular exercise

Who would have thought? Endurance training and regular daily exercise can help reduce the effects of weak connective tissue. Sport trains the muscles, relieves the connective tissue and also helps to lose excess weight.

Avoid smoking and too much sunlight

Nicotine and UV light cause the skin to age faster. Connective tissue and the outer skin are damaged and lose their firmness more quickly.
Healthy diet, lots of water
Another classic in pretty much all health issues: skin and connective tissue benefit from a diet rich in vegetables and fruit and low in meat. This is due to a large number of vitamins, trace elements and micronutrients that we cannot get in the form of food supplements. Drinking enough non-carbonated water purifies and helps the connective tissue to remove harmful substances.

Massages, contrast showers, creams

While massages and contrast showers stimulate blood circulation and are therefore by no means wrong, lotions and collagen tablets often promise effects that cannot be proven. The main damage is the wallet. If you want to do something good for your connective tissue, it is better to invest in delicious, healthy food or in a new pair of sports shoes.

health

Tips For Sore Muscles: This Helps Against Pain After Exercise

If the training was too intense, aching muscles will develop. With relaxation, warmth and the consumption of protein-containing products, you will quickly get rid of the annoying pain.

Sore muscles: This helps with pain after exercise

Sore muscles are tiny tears in the muscle fibers that cause swelling, which in turn causes pain. The best thing is to prevent sore muscles and not suffer from them in the first place. Easier said than done, though, so we have great tips for you on how to relieve your sore muscles.

What happens to the body when muscles are sore?

A sore muscle is a micro-injury to the muscle. It generally occurs when an unfamiliar or new movement has been performed, or when the muscle has been overused. This is the case, for example, with very intensive training*. Tissue fluid penetrates the muscle fibers through the smallest injuries and they swell. However, according to the Bayreuth sports scientist Wolfgang Buskies, you don’t feel the pain immediately when the micro-cracks appear. Because the muscle fibers themselves have no pain receptors. For this reason, it takes a while before the pain receptors, which are located outside the muscle fibers, report the injury to the brain and we notice the painful muscle soreness.

Correct prevention helps against sore muscles

Before it comes to an unpleasant soreness, you can do a lot to prevent it from occurring in the first place. In general, it is advisable to only do sports when you are rested. The sports medicine doctor Dr. Axel Klein has more tips ready:

Make sure you have enough fluids in your body. That means drink, drink, drink! Water that contains plenty of sodium or apple or currant spritzer is best.
In addition, you should warm up properly before exercising. That means doing light movements for at least five to ten minutes. For example, brisk walking or jumping. Even after the sports unit*
Don’t give it your all right away, but ensure a moderate increase in the level. This gives the muscles a chance to gradually approach the effort.
A warm shower is recommended after exercise, as it relaxes the body.
You should not stretch too much before or after exercising.

I have sore muscles – what will bring me relief?

If your muscles are sore, you should first lean back and rest your damaged muscles. If possible, move the muscles in a relaxed manner, never straining. You can easily train the muscles that are not injured. In addition, you should adhere to the following:

The sore muscles should be stretched lightly, but not too much.
Warm up the muscles. This leads to increased blood flow to the muscles, which has a pain-relieving effect. In addition to a heating pad, we also recommend a visit to the sauna or a bath with mountain pine additives*.
You should also make sure you have enough protein
Get at least eight hours of sleep a night. This promotes the self-regeneration of the body.

Should I take medication?

Taking medication for sore muscles is not normally necessary. In any case, there are no medications for sore muscles themselves. If so, painkillers are often used, but they can have the opposite effect: painkillers can suppress the inflammation, which slows down the healing of the microcracks.

So it’s better to let your sore muscles heal naturally than to resort to painkillers. You can use heat to relieve the pain.

Should I see a doctor for sore muscles?

If the muscle soreness does not subside after several days, you should consult a doctor. If you still have trouble moving, be careful. Because in an emergency, rhabdomyolysis can be present.

In the case of three young women from Scotland, the severe muscle pain was definitely a case for the doctor: because their urine also turned brown. The family doctor, in whose practice all three were, immediately sent them to the hospital. The diagnosis: imminent kidney failure due to excessive strain on the muscles. Due to the causal overload, the mantle of the muscle cells was injured, causing them to push outwards. This released the muscle pigment myoglobin, which almost flooded the kidneys. For this reason, the urine of the women also turned brown. If the women had not been treated quickly, their kidneys would have failed and they would have died. The case shows how dangerous it is to exaggerate too much in sports.

Conclusion: Prevention, warmth and relaxation help with sore muscles

If you haven’t managed to prevent aching muscles, you can still do a lot to alleviate the annoying suffering. Heat has proven to be very helpful, for example in the form of a visit to the sauna or a warm bath with mountain pine additives*. You can also promote the self-healing of the muscle fibers by consuming protein products. Last but not least, you should also get enough sleep so that the body, and thus the muscles, can regenerate.

health

Sport Despite Rheumatism and Arthrosis: These Types of Sport Help Against The Pain

Older people in particular are affected: rheumatism, arthrosis and arthritis lead to painful joints and restrict movement. Some sports can even contribute to healing.

What is what: The difference between rheumatism, arthrosis and arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly referred to as “rheumatism”. Rather, rheumatism is the generic term for over 100 different diseases that are characterized by chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. They mainly affect the bones, joints and spine as well as the associated muscles, tendons and ligaments.

According to the Rheumaakademie, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common inflammatory rheumatic diseases. The disease is caused by a malfunction in the immune system. This leads to chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane, which manifests itself in swelling, overheating and functional restrictions. If left untreated, this process leads to the destruction of cartilage and bone.

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is due to the wear and tear of the joints over the course of life. However, you can counteract this with the right diet.

Osteoarthritis: Which sports can you do?

Osteoarthritis patients often do not exercise due to severe pain. Under certain conditions, however, some sports are possible despite the illness. The Society for Orthopedic-Traumatological Sports Medicine (GOTS) recommends:
Cycling: Especially on the bike, the cyclic movement in a sitting position that relieves the strain on the lower extremities is particularly beneficial. A women’s bike or a low handlebar make it easier to get on and off.
Hiking with sticks
cross country skiing
water aerobics
In some sports you should already be practiced. This includes, for example, Nordic walking. The poles relieve the joints, but the steps are larger than with normal walking. This increases the effort. Experts speak of a higher impact. According to GOTS, sports with higher technical demands should also have been mastered before arthrosis develops, since learning with arthrosis is difficult or impossible. These include, above all, a restricted level of performance, these sports can certainly continue to be practiced. However, the experts recommend cushioned shoes, possibly walking aids or the use of a cart when playing golf. If you modify your sport, e.g. if you do without a pronounced trunk rotation in tennis, these sports can be very useful and also health-promoting according to GOTS.

Rheumatoid arthritis: which sports can you do?

For those affected by arthritis, the AOK recommends endurance training or strengthening exercises two to three times a week. According to the study, it has a positive effect on the heart and circulation. This is particularly important for rheumatism patients because they are at higher risk for

Swimming and water aerobics in lukewarm water
To go biking
Nordic walking
tai chi
yoga
training on devices
Sports that involve strong vibrations, poor posture and one-sided stress, such as tennis or soccer

Lifestyle

Get Tips Against Rip-Offs from the Locksmith

In order to protect themselves from dubious machinations when hiring a locksmith, consumers must select the service provider carefully.

When the door slams shut and the key is forgotten in the apartment, the realization usually comes quickly: you have locked yourself out. The only way to gain access to your own four walls is through a locksmith.

The risk of falling into the cost trap with these service providers is particularly high when you are under time pressure. Unfortunately, many dubious providers shamelessly exploit the plight of their customers. The result is completely exaggerated bills. Below is a summary of how to reliably protect yourself from fraudulent rip-offs.

Check contact details

The first step to unmasking dubious service providers is to carefully check the contact details. For example, supposed key services that secure the top positions in telephone books with the addition “AAA.” should be avoided completely. This is a clear indication of dubious providers. This usually has nothing to do with fair service. 0800 area codes should also be viewed critically since commissions flow through call centers for the switching of callers, which the customer ultimately pays.

Calling the information desk is not a good choice either. Instead, it is advisable to research local service providers with a short journey. This saves time and the chance of finding a reputable and competent specialist is significantly higher. The websites of the locksmiths are also a good help to identify decent companies. The first glance should wander to the imprint.

If all necessary information such as address and company is stored, this already indicates seriousness. The same applies to reference to membership in a professional association. In addition, it is advantageous to select a service provider with fixed prices, as is the case on the website of the service provider for Frankfurt and Sachsenhausen. The company explains the fixed opening prices directly on the home page so that misunderstandings about the calculation are avoided from the outset.
Useful sources for researching reputable locksmiths:

industry association
Local Police Department
Regional guilds/chambers
If there is enough time, it is advisable to call and compare several companies.

Telephone assignment

Once you have found a locksmith that inspires confidence, you place the order over the phone. First of all, it is important to clarify who the contractual partner actually is. Is it actually a regional company based locally or was the call possibly rerouted to a call center and the company is in a completely different location? Companies have to make a clear statement on the phone.

Then the total price including VAT for the required services will be requested. The latter must be clearly formulated by the customer on the phone. For example, if the door just fell shut, the door can often be opened without damage. In addition, you should specifically ask about possible surcharges, since the prices for working days, Sundays, and public holidays can vary immensely. Travel allowances can also drive up the total. In order not to experience any nasty surprises, all eventualities must be clarified. This includes the customer describing his individual case in detail. Among other things, locksmiths charge different flat rates for doors that are only pulled shut and keys left in the lock due to the greater time required.

Furthermore, the arrival time must be clarified. If the fitter is on-site much later than announced, it is advantageous if the cancellation in the event of a significant delay was threatened directly when the order was placed. Ideally, the commissioner will have a witness who can confirm the statements of both parties.

Extra savings tip for locksmiths

Due to the sometimes high surcharges for locksmith operations on weekends and public holidays as well as at night, it can be worth waiting a few hours or days and possibly staying with friends or relatives. Depending on the price scale, even a hotel room is cheaper. If there is no emergency and you do not have to go to the apartment urgently, the alternatives should be weighed up.

Order processing tips

If the fitter is on-site, clients should note the name of the specialist and check the company’s contact details for completeness. The consumer advice center has collected further practical consumer tips on opening doors in an emergency. Among other things, the guide says: “If the locksmith demands more from the start than agreed on the phone or if he comes too late, he should be sent away again. There is no entitlement to payment, not even for travel expenses if more is required for the same work than previously agreed over the phone.” If the invoice is handed over directly, a tax number and the owner of the company must be shown. Under no circumstances should consumers sign blank documents. In general, it is common for the locksmith to be paid directly. You should take your time and go through the positions calmly before handing over the cash.

Prevent demand

In order to avoid unnecessary costs from locksmiths, a spare key can be left with a person you trust in an emergency. Under no circumstances should the key be hidden in the immediate vicinity. This direct access is of course exploited by burglars and in the event of a break-in, the insurance company does not pay. In our guide to avoiding and preventing home break-ins, we have arranged practical recommendations for protection against criminals.

Lifestyle

Tips & Measures Against Exam Anxiety

Who doesn’t know it: the fear of exams! The trembling knees on the way to the driver’s license test or the sweaty hands during the oral Abitur, almost everyone has experienced this feeling at some point. If you have very strong exam anxiety, which can manifest itself in sleep disorders or depression, for example, you should definitely seek help from a professional advisor such as a psychologist or psychotherapist. This can be done in individual talks or in a group.

Causes of test anxiety

This emotional-physical reaction can be caused, for example, by social pressure to perform, a strict upbringing by anxious or overly demanding parents, or negative experiences in previous exams. In order to properly deal with a stressful situation of this kind, the symptoms must first be interpreted and accepted as test anxiety. Only then can one begin to find out and apply the method that is most suitable for oneself against inner tension and nervousness.

1) Anchor positive feelings

With regard to the average level of nervousness before an exam, there are a number of ways to calm yourself down, such as this little trick: press the thumb and forefinger of one hand together and think for about 3 minutes about an experience that you personally found pleasant, e.g Walk on the beach with the warm sand on your feet and the smell of the sea in your nostrils. If you repeat this process frequently, after a while you will feel relaxed and positive just by pressing your thumb and forefinger together. In psychotherapy, this process is called “dropping the anchor”.

2) Attend anxiety courses at college

Courses are offered at various German universities in which you can learn to reduce or overcome your fears in relation to exams. They are led by professional advisors.
Talking to other participants in the course and the feeling that you are not alone in the face of the problem can also help. In these anti-stress and anti-anxiety seminars, oral or written exams are often re-enacted to familiarize course participants with the exam situation.

3) Use Bach flowers or relaxation exercises

For some, it is the Bach flowers, for others relaxation exercises such as autogenic training, yoga, or Thai Chi help. However, sports such as jogging and cycling or mental anticipation of the exam situation can also reduce stress. A certain fear of exams is normal. This well-known worry about the upcoming event, which manifests itself in the form of inner restlessness, tingling in the stomach, and sweaty hands, tends to have a performance-enhancing effect in the exam itself.

Professional help with severe test anxiety

On the other hand, very strong test anxiety with far more severe symptoms can also have a negative effect on concentration and memory. It is advisable to talk to a professional advisor here in order to track down the cause of test anxiety and tackle the problem personally.

Lifestyle

Tips for Protection Against Thunderstorms

Clever tips and rules of conduct for protection against thunderstorms. A thunderstorm never comes out of the blue, you should watch the sky regularly when hiking, a storm is usually indicated early on by dark and threatening clouds, for example.

Recognize thunderstorms in good time

You can calculate the distance of the thunderstorm. But to recognize one, you should pay attention to a few signs. To recognize a thunderstorm, you can look for dark clouds that look like cauliflower or cotton candy, for example. Your alarm bells should ring especially when the wind picks up in muggy summers. Of course, heavy rain or hail also indicate thunderstorms. Furthermore, falling air pressure is a clear indication.

Protection from outdoor thunderstorms

In the event of a thunderstorm, you should always seek shelter in buildings or vehicles. If that’s not possible, you definitely need to avoid open terrain, hills, and ridges. Take a protective position to avoid being struck by lightning. To do this, you have to put your feet together and squat down, keep your arms at your side, and duck your head.

You should also observe the following rules of conduct when staying outdoors during a thunderstorm:

Never swim in bodies of water such as swimming pools or stay in bathing lakes.
Do not enter and avoid ditches, or exit immediately.
Avoid the immediate vicinity of trees, towers, and masts.
You should also avoid cave entrances or furrows to increase protection from thunderstorms.
Do not lie down, but keep the contact area with the floor as minimal as possible.
Also, avoid umbrellas as they conduct lightning.
Basically, you shouldn’t be near trees. An impact can occur and it is life-threatening.

Rules of conduct during thunderstorms in buildings

You are generally safest in buildings, but you should also observe a few rules of conduct here:

You should never bathe or shower to protect yourself from thunderstorms
Use little or no electrical equipment
Give up the cell phone
Avoid elevators as they can get stuck due to a power outage.

What to do in the event of a power failure?

Lightning can also strike during a thunderstorm. In the event of a power outage, the first thing you should do is check the electrical box. Most houses have security systems. If the emergency switch doesn’t work, a fuse may have blown. In that case, you need to contact an electrician.

Food

Superweapon Goji Berries: How They Protect Against Age-Related Vision Loss

According to a recent study, there is a link between regular consumption of goji berries and protection against age-related vision loss. The study results give reason to hope that a cure for the disease is within reach.

170 million people worldwide lose the ability to recognize faces

“AMD affects the central field of vision and can affect the ability to read or recognize faces,” study author Glenn Yiu said in a press release. More than 170 million people worldwide are affected. The research team justifies the relevance of their study.

In their study, the researchers examined the connection between the consumption of 28 grams of goji berries five days a week by participants aged 45 to 65 and the density of the protective pigments in their eyes. If the study is successful, the density must increase. The test series lasted 90 days.

After 90 days, the researchers made positive discoveries. In 13 healthy participants, the density of the protective pigments in their eyes increased. In contrast, no such increase was observed in 14 participants who took a commercially available dietary supplement for eye health during the same period.

Lutein and zeaxanthin from the berries act as sunscreens for the eyes

The team reported that there was an increase in the pigments lutein and zeaxanthin as a result of eating the goji berries because the pigments are contained in high concentrations and were responsible for the beneficial effects. Said pigments filter harmful blue light and provide antioxidant protection. This helps protect the eyes from AMD during aging.

“Lutein and zeaxanthin are like sunscreens for the eyes,” explains study author Xiang Li. “The higher the levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the retina, the better the protection. Our study found that even in healthy eyes, these optical pigments carry through a small daily serving of goji berries can be increased.”

Unfortunately, the triggers of the disease are not always clear, because many factors are involved in the development of AMD. Therefore, the research team would like to conduct further studies in this area in order to get closer to the prevention and cure of AMD. “Our study shows that goji berries, which are a natural food source, can improve macular pigmentation in healthy participants beyond the intake of high-dose supplements. The next step in our research will be to examine goji berries in patients with early-stage AMD.” , says the study author.