Reduce the price at the pump

(ARA) Aug. 18 -– Want to save up to 12 cents a gallon off your gasoline bill? Invest in a tire gauge and make sure your tires are properly inflated.

The U.S. Department of Energy says proper tire maintenance can improve fuel economy by more than 3 percent. Under-inflated tires will make you pay more at the gas pump.

“Neglecting tires hurts your wallet at the gas station,” says Dan Zielinski, spokesman for the Rubber Manufacturers Association, a trade association for tire manufacturers. “Under-inflated tires make your engine work harder and waste gas. It’s the same principle if your bicycle tires are low on air — your legs work harder to get you where you’re going.”

More than one in four vehicles on the road is wasting gasoline due to under inflation. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found that 27 percent of passenger cars and 32 percent of light trucks had at least one significantly under-inflated tire. An RMA survey found that 85 percent of motorists do not properly check tire inflation pressure.

Poor tire care causes tires to wear out faster, which means more scrap tires and an added cost of buying new tires more often. NHTSA estimates that under-inflated tires contribute to more than 600 fatalities and 33,000 injuries each year. So, proper tire inflation will not only keep money in your pocket but help keep you safe on the road.

“Checking tire pressure is easy and takes just five minutes,” Zielinski says. “If you have questions, thousands of tire dealers across the country will do it for you free of charge.”

RMA’s tire manufacturer members sponsor a national tire care education program called “Be Tire Smart — Play Your Part.”  The group urges motorists to check tire pressure at least once a month. The recommended tire pressure for every vehicle is located on a label on the driver’s door or door post or check the owner’s manual. Also, check tires when cold — before driving.

Other tips include to check wheel alignments periodically, rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles and check tread each month for cuts, bulges, punctures or other damage. Also, check tread depth using the “penny test.” Insert a penny head first into the tread groove.  If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it is time for a new tire.

For more tire care tips, visit www.betiresmart.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Doctor offers tips on how to deal with diaper rash

(ARA) Aug- 15 – More than one new mom has felt frustrated or helpless over diaper rash. One of the most common ailments of infancy is also among the least understood; 64 percent of moms said that diaper rash was only a minor problem, and the majority are unaware that a yeast infection can cause a more serious diaper rash, according to a recent nationwide survey of new and expectant moms.

“It can be easy to chuckle over diaper talk, but if you’re a parent faced with fighting your baby’s relentless diaper rash, you know it’s not a laughing matter,” says Dr. Jennifer Shu, a pediatrician from Atlanta, Ga., and co-author of “Heading Home with Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality.”  “Many mothers struggle heroically to keep their babies rash-free, but misconceptions about the causes and treatments of diaper rash may hinder their efforts.”

And even in our health-aware society, misconceptions about diaper rash persist. The “Baby Bottom Line Report,” conducted by Penn, Schoen & Berland Associates on behalf of Barrier Therapeutics, Inc., makers of dermatology products, found that fewer than one in five respondents could identify any of the defined differences between a normal diaper rash and a more serious or severe diaper rash such as one with yeast infection.

Dr. Shu offers new and expectant mothers a few tips on dealing with diaper rash:

DO realize that it’s not your fault.

Many causes lead to diaper rash, both mild and severe, from simple chafing, to prolonged exposure of the skin to urine or stool, to infection by a common type of yeast called Candida. Rare indeed is the baby who will make it out of diapers without ever experiencing some diaper rash, no matter how vigilant the parents are.

DON’T wait to deal with a bad diaper rash – it may be more.

Typically, diaper rash will clear up in three days or less with simple, over-the-counter treatments. But if the rash lasts more than 72 hours, you should take your baby to your health care provider because it’s possible the rash is accompanied by a yeast infection.

“Many of the cases of persistent diaper rash that I treat involve a yeast infection,” Dr. Shu says. “However, parents don’t always know that yeast is a common cause of these rashes, which can get worse without proper treatment.”

DO learn the difference.

Typical diaper rash develops as mild redness with well-defined edges between affected and healthy skin. A diaper rash complicated by Candida will usually have a “beefy” red appearance, smaller rashes outside the edges of the affected area, bumps with or without pus, and will last longer than three days.

DO consult your health care provider at the first sign of a bad diaper rash.

Standard over-the-counter diaper rash treatments may not cure a rash with a yeast infection; an antifungal treatment may be necessary. Your health care provider is best qualified to diagnose your baby’s severe diaper rash and tell you whether a yeast infection is present.

Until recently, parents had to use a combination of creams and ointments to treat a diaper rash with yeast infection, including antifungal products, steroids to relieve symptoms, and a barrier ointment. However, the Federal Food and Drug Administration has approved Vusion Ointment (0.25 percent miconazole nitrate, 15 percent zinc oxide, 81.35 percent white petrolatum) for the treatment of diaper rash with yeast infections. Specifically formulated for the treatment of diaper rash with Candida, Vusion is the only treatment FDA-approved for this purpose.

In addition to the proper treatment, it’s important to keep the baby’s diaper area as clean and dry as possible, Dr. Shu says. Change diapers frequently, clean the baby’s diaper area with warm water and mild soap or a gentle baby wipe when needed, and keep the diaper area open to the air whenever possible. “Medication can’t cure diaper rash if the baby’s diaper area is not kept clean and dry,” she says.

To learn more about diaper rash with Candida and how to treat it, visit www.vusionointment.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Need to chill? Try nature’s stress-busters: flowers

(ARA) Aug. 12 - Feeling a little stressed? Need an energy boost? Buy some flowers. Taking the time to stop and smell the roses this summer could do more than you think.

According to a recent Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital study, people who made a point of looking at flowers first thing in the morning reported feeling cheerier and even more energetic throughout the day. Amy Brightfield, Health Director, Woman’s Day magazine says, “Combining the power of scent and colors that both relax and rejuvenate, flowers and plants are a fast and affordable pick-me-up this summer.”

Beyond their physical beauty, flowers possess distinct sensory qualities that can boost energy, tame tension and brighten your mood.  Essential oils derived from plants and flowers have been proven to increase oxygen flow to the brain, stimulating positive feelings that can balance energy levels or have a calming effect. These essential oils are often used in aromatherapy treatments to both soothe and stimulate the senses.

Here are some tips for choosing floral varieties and natural fragrances proven to help you de-stress and recharge.

Relaxation and Tranquility

Which flowers can help you relax and stay calm? By pairing floral scents with their rich natural colors, a number of floral varieties like lavender and lilacs can act as a relaxant and alleviate stress. Considered a natural remedy for a range of ailments, lavender’s scent and lush color can prompt your body to produce a calming compound, improving sleep and promoting relaxation.

Lilac is another stress-relieving scent. This flower is found to have a calming effect, which can promote a feeling of well-being and also increase relaxation.

Bring color and tranquility to your life with these additional flowers:

*Relax with Bells of Ireland: Green, a calming color, can help you relax and breathe slowly and more deeply, all of which can help slow the production of stress hormones according to the Society of American Florists.

*Get a good night’s sleep with delphiniums: The blue hue of this flower relaxes and naturally creates a soothing atmosphere that can help your body to wind down after a long day.

Awaken and Rejuvenate

For a floral pick-me-up, classic red roses, sunflowers and orange daisies awaken the senses and increase energy through their vibrant colors and potent aromas.

*Increase energy with red roses: Because the color red is energizing and we often associate the bright bloom with feelings of love, roses can work to boost mood and enhance energy levels.

*Enhance alertness with sunflowers: Bright and cheerful, the yellow hue of sunflowers enhances alertness by making those around them feel clear-headed and decisive. Since people generally associate yellow with the sun’s rays and daylight, it’s said to help people feel more optimistic.

*Convey confidence with orange daisies: The vibrant color of orange can convey confidence, show satisfaction and a passion for life.

“For the ultimate sensory overload, indulge in a symphony of scents and colors,” says Julie Mulligan, expert floral designer for 1-800-FLOWERS.COM. “Combining the perfect amount of relaxation and rejuvenation will help exhilarate and soothe all at the same time.”

Red Door Spas, a leader in the day spa industry, incorporates aromatherapeutic techniques with their spa treatments to enhance their guests’ well-being. Essential oils are used through inhalation or application to the skin in massage and body services to create a mind-body connection.

Enhance your emotional well-being before the busy fall season arrives by taking a look at www.1800flowers.com’s De-Stress and Recharge collection of aromatic arrangements.  Also be sure to visit a Red Door Spas location to experience their Aroma Balancing Massage, which combines customized blends of essential oils, derived from plants and flowers, with Swedish massage techniques, to de-stress, revitalize, balance or de-toxify.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Learn the truth behind seven common credit myths

(ARA) Aug. 9 – With the economy reeling and home loan rates at a nine-month high, lenders are scrutinizing everyone’s credit history like never before.

Yet, many Americans don’t realize the impact of late payments on their credit score and their finances.

In fact, mortgage loan delinquency reached a national average high of 3.23 percent for the first three months of this year, according to Trend Data from TransUnion.

“Being knowledgeable about your credit standing is becoming increasingly more important by the day,” says Lucy Duni, vice president of TrueCredit.com. “Businesses, ranging from insurance companies to wireless providers and some employers, are now reviewing consumer credit information as a routine part of their application processes.”

When it comes to credit, knowing fact from fiction and understanding how to act is critical. Here are some common credit myths that may be preventing you from engaging in effective credit management:

Myth: My score will drop if I check my credit.

Fact: Checking your own reports and scores is considered a “soft inquiry” and has no negative impact on your credit score.

Myth: Reviewing any one of my three credit reports occasionally will tell me everything I need to know about my credit standing.

Fact: Occasional monitoring will give an incomplete snapshot of your credit standing. You should, instead, check all three of your credit reports and scores frequently throughout the year because the information and scores contained in each of those reports can vary at any given point in time.

Myth: There’s only one score that all lenders use to determine my credit-worthiness.

Fact: There are literally hundreds of different scoring models used by lenders in the marketplace today.

Myth: Closing old credit card accounts will clean up your credit reports.

Fact: Some people advocate closing old and inactive accounts as a way to manage their credit. In most cases, closing your older accounts will make your credit history appear shorter, which can negatively impact your overall credit standing.

Myth: Once you pay off a delinquent loan or credit card balance, the item is removed from your credit report.

Fact: Negative information such as late payments, collection accounts and bankruptcies will remain on your credit reports for up to seven years. Certain types of bankruptcies stick around for up to 10 years. Paying off the delinquent account won’t remove it from your credit report, but it will update the account to indicate it as “paid.”

Myth: If I don’t pay a medical bill on time because I believe it is incorrect, I can’t be held accountable.

Fact: If you fail to pay a medical bill in a timely manner, the delinquent payment may be reported as late to a credit bureau. If you believe a medical bill you have received is wrong or was sent to you in error, it’s best to contact the provider to resolve or discuss the matter prior to the bill becoming past due.

Myth: The “credit bureaus” report people as having either good or bad credit.

Fact: Credit reporting companies compile information that is provided directly and voluntarily by consumer lenders. If you have a credit card, home or auto loan, or make other monthly payments, details of your payment track record on these are likely being reported by those parties.

For more details about credit myths, visit TrueCredit.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Lifetime’s Life’s Basics Plant Protein now available at Sprouts Farmers Market

SCOTTSDALE Aug. 6 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) — Nutritional Specialties, Inc./dba LifeTime(r) announced that its Life’s Basics(r) Plant Protein is now available in Sprouts Farmers Market. LifeTime is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Baywood International, Inc. (OTCBB:BAYW) (”Company”).

“Sprouts is a valuable retail partner for LifeTime. As we continue to grow our brand in the burgeoning chain of natural food markets, we have enjoyed every step of our relationship,” stated Tom Pinkowski, President of LifeTime. “Furthermore, consumers are drawn to the unique formula and terrific taste our new Life’s Basics Plant Protein, and we look forward to supporting Sprouts in the roll-out and success of this item.”

“We look forward to continuing our growth with LifeTime in building this brand further in our market. The existing foundation that has been built with this brand will help this new and unique Life’s Basics Plant Protein gain the broad acceptance that it deserves within our retail stores,” stated Tom Fitzgerald, Vitamin/Supplement Buyer and Category Manger for Sprouts.

Life’s Basics(r) Plant Protein contains a unique complete, vegetarian protein profile including Pea Protein Isolate, Rice Protein Concentrate, Organic Manitoba Harvest Hemp Protein and Chia Powder. The product comes in delicious vanilla flavor and can be mixed with cold water without affecting its creamy taste. For more information, please visit http://www.lifetimevitamins.com/products/lifetime_plantprotein.html.

About Sprouts:
Sprouts Farmers Market, an Arizona based company, is one of the nation’s fastest growing retailers with 32 locations sprouting in Arizona, California, Texas and Colorado. Sprouts specializes in farm fresh produce, purchased from local growers when possible. Sprouts also offers a large selection of vitamins and supplements, all natural meats, fresh seafood, bines full of bulk foods, an extensive selection of natural and organic grocery items, rBST free milk, imported cheeses, deli meats and more. Customers enjoy a friendly, educated staff in a fun and easy-going atmosphere. Sprouts proudly supports local communities with product donatons, sponshorships, educational events and more. For more information, visit www.sprouts.com.

About Baywood:
Baywood International, Inc. (OTCBB:BAYW) (”Baywood”) is a nutritional science company that develops, markets and sells nutraceutical and nutritionally enhanced products and new age beverages under its own brands. Baywood merges its expertise in nutritional formulation with its leverage in sales and distribution to deliver the most effective and progressive products to market. Currently, Baywood’s products are sold under three brands that are distributed into retail markets nationwide and internationally as follows:

Traveling with pets requires extra care

(ARA) Aug. 3 - Bringing the family pet along on a road trip may seem like a good idea – you don’t have to ask friends or family to look after your pet and you can avoid the costs and concerns that go with boarding and kennels. But traveling with pets in the car also brings special challenges that, fortunately, can be met with a bit of forethought and careful preparation of both the vehicle and pet.

According to information from the American Veterinary Medical Association, which recently teamed with Subaru of America to produce a brochure on pet travel tips, bringing a pet along on a road trip simply involves adapting your routine to the road. All of the things you take into consideration at home – your pet’s health, happiness and safety – should be thoughtfully addressed when traveling with your pet.

Here are 10 helpful tips for road-tripping with pets from the AVMA and Subaru:

* If your pet is not accustomed to car travel, take it for a few short rides before your trip so it will feel confident that a car outing does not necessarily mean a trip to the veterinarian or an unpleasant destination.

* Cats should always be confined to a cage or in a cat carrier to allow them to feel secure and prevent them from crawling under your feet while you are driving.

* Dogs riding in a car should not ride in the passenger seat if it is equipped with an airbag, and should never be allowed to sit on the driver’s lap.

* See your automotive dealer for pet accessories designed specifically to fit your vehicle, such as compartment dividers that separate pets and cargo from the passenger area. Several automobile manufacturers, including Subaru, offer a dog guard/compartment divider that keeps pets safely in the rear cargo area of station wagons, “crossover” vehicles and SUVs.

* Pets should not be allowed to ride with their heads outside car windows. Particles of dirt or other debris can enter the eyes, ears, and nose, causing injury or infection.

* Give small portions of food and water. Plan to stop every two hours for exercise. Remember to include a leash with your pet’s traveling supplies.

* If your dog has a problem with carsickness, your veterinarian can prescribe medication that will help the dog feel comfortable during a long car trip.

* Pack a simple pet first-aid kit that includes assorted bandages, antiseptic cream, an anti-diarrheal medication that is safe for pets (ask your veterinarian to suggest a product), gauze squares, phone numbers for your veterinarian, and a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital at your destination, as well as a national poison control hotline.

* In addition to a standard identification tag (which should be labeled with your name, home address, and phone number), your pet’s collar should include a travel tag with information on where you are staying while away from home. Should your pet become lost, this will allow you to be contacted locally.

* Perform a daily “health check” on your pet when away from home. In unfamiliar surroundings, your pet’s appetite, energy, and disposition may change. Watch for unusual discharges from the nose and eyes, excessive scratching or biting of any body part, abnormal elimination, or excessive water consumption. Visit a local veterinarian if you are concerned about any physical or behavioral changes.

As you can see, a little planning and a carefully prepared vehicle can make all the difference between a good time had by all and a road trip filled with regret.

To download a color copy of the AVMA/Subaru Traveling With Your Pet brochure, visit

www.avma.org/animal_health/brochures/traveling/traveling_brochure.pdf.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Students Vote in Presidential School Lunch Campaign

(ARA) - While their parents are following the presidential campaign trail, students across the country will participate in their own election to name a “President of School Lunch” this fall. Students will learn about the candidates’ nutritional values and physical fitness interests before casting their ballot to elect the nation’s favorite school lunch.

The third and final year of the “Vote for School Lunch” program will culminate this fall in a heated battle between candidates Pete Pizza, winner of the first-ever election in 2006; Biff Burger, winner of the 2007 fall election; and three new contenders that were designed and submitted by students: Gloria Grilled Cheese, Larry Lasagna and Petunia Pita Pocket. Each candidate will relay the nutritional benefits of their school meal versions as well as their physical fitness and extra curricular activities.

The campaign will help educate students and parents about healthy food choices and encourage them to partake in physical fitness activities. Providing an interactive opportunity to learn about healthy meal choices at school, Vote campaign activities include debates, contests and cafeteria elections. Hundreds of thousands of students have participated since the program began in 2006.

The program will also show how school meals have evolved into balanced, nutritious options for students. According to the “State of School Nutrition 2007” report, school nutrition programs have introduced students to more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and low-fat and reduced sugar food varieties. Today, a majority of schools offer fat-free milk, salad bars or prepackaged salads, low-fat yogurt and yogurt drinks, from-scratch baked items and even vegetarian meals.

Lunch trays reflect healthy, balanced meals in age appropriate portions that appeal to students’ tastes. Federal Dietary Guidelines for Americans set standards for essential protein, vitamins and minerals and limit calories from fat for all meals within the federally funded National School Lunch Program, which serves 30 million children daily. Additionally, local wellness policy requirements have prompted schools to develop nutrition requirements for all foods and beverages sold in the cafeteria.

The non-profit School Nutrition Association invites students to vote online and learn more about this year’s candidates Pete Pizza, Biff Burger, Larry Lasagna, Gloria Grilled Cheese and Petunia Pita Pocket. Voting begins in schools and online at www.VoteForSchoolLunch.org and runs through National School Lunch Week, Oct. 13-17.

The candidates are campaigning on their platform of sound dietary values, great taste and lunchroom versatility to be announced ‘President of School Lunch’ on Oct. 24.

Visit www.VoteForSchoolLunch.org to cast a vote or www.SchoolNutrition.org for more information on school lunch programs. SNA is a professional organization representing more than 55,000 members who provide high-quality, low-cost meals to students and are dedicated to feeding children safe and nutritious meals.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Strategies can help families beat the economic slump

(ARA) – With high gas prices and unemployment rates soaring, we can all agree that the economy is struggling. Even in tough economic times, there are some simple things each of us can do to make a difference in our lives.

Especially if questions like these are being asked: When will prices change? Why doesn’t my job pay me more? Who is responsible for the current economic slump?

“There are many things that happen in life that are out of our control. Instead of falling into the trap of victim thinking or playing the blame game, why not focus on the action we can take to make a difference?” says John G. Miller, an expert on personal accountability and author of the books “QBQ! The Question Behind the Question” and “Flipping the Switch.”

Our attitude and the questions we ask ourselves during difficult times can make all the difference and will help us take actions that can improve any situation. Miller says the best way for each of us to practice personal accountability and change our outlook is to ask QBQs, or the ‘question behind the question.’ QBQs are questions that begin with “What” or “How,” contain the word “I,” and focus on action.

By asking questions that focus on ourselves and the action we personally can take, we are able to eliminate whining and complaining and move toward positive change.

“None of us can change the high gas prices, cost of food, or potential layoffs at work. But asking the right questions can make a positive impact,” adds Miller. For example, many people are stressed financially because of the rising cost of living. Here’s how the right question can lead to a positive action:

Incorrect Question: Why do gas and groceries cost so much?

Correct Question: What can I do to better manage my finances?

“After asking this question of myself, I would be able to examine my personal situation and make changes to my budget,” Miller said. “I would then ask questions like: Do I have a cell phone plan that’s too big for my income? Do I have a premium cable package with 150 channels when I could do with a basic plan or a good book? Do I always have to have a morning latte or drink bottled water? What can I do differently to save money?”

Making positive changes by practicing personal accountability, in light of the current economy, can seem overwhelming. Instead of trying to change everything at once, start with these small steps. These options help us take action in our own lives, instead of focusing on uncontrollable circumstances.

Try combining errands to save on gas, buying generic brands, buying in bulk, and conserving energy in the home by turning off lights and only running the dishwasher when full. Little changes can add up — over time — to big savings. And, of course, sometimes there can be big savings in single decisions.

Incorrect Question: When will we be able to move to a bigger house?

Correct Question: How can I be more content with the home I have?

Incorrect Question: Why can’t I buy a brand new car?

Correct Question: What can I do to better care for the car I have and extend its life?

Incorrect Question: When will we be able to afford a trip to Disney World?

Correct Question: How can I create fun experiences for my family at home? When we ask the right question we can then work to find a solution. For example with our entertainment activities, we can search our hometown for free museums and other activities that might get overlooked. Or, bring the entertainment home. For example, if your family usually goes to the movies, opt instead to rent and create the theater experience with popcorn and treats. Like to eat out? Instead choose a special recipe that the whole family enjoys and work together to cook it.

“Although times are tight for everyone, I can always make the best of a difficult situation,” says Miller. “By asking the right questions and practicing personal accountability rather than blaming others or complaining, we can make a dramatic impact and be a lot happier.”

To learn more about QBQ! and to order both of John Miller’s books, visit www.QBQ.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Gas prices hurting summer plans? Turn your back yard into a fuel-free vacation

(ARA) - Break out those shorts — summer is here. With the arrival of hot weather season, many homeowners are beginning to think about summertime escapes.

Unfortunately, as the temperature rises, gas prices continue to soar.

If you are concerned about vacation plans being ruined this year because of economic concerns, don’t sweat it. Take a summer vacation without leaving your own backyard.

Adding a hot tub or swimming pool to the outdoor living area is rapidly becoming a “must have” in the home improvement space, providing homeowners a soothing sanctuary right on their own property. Driven by the need for peaceful escapes to balance stressful lives, people are creating these sophisticated spaces for enjoying time with family and friends.

Homeowners are thinking beyond the barbeque and incorporating cozy outdoor fireplaces, handy kitchen appliances like beverage refrigerators, and to truly relax and recharge, a hot tub or swimming pool. “Upgrading with swimming pools or hot tubs not only provides for a relaxing private oasis without having to pay astronomical prices to reach your destination, but it is also a smart investment,” said

Bill Weber, president and CEO of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals. “Due to the state of the economy, many homeowners are opting to stay in their homes, and are making improvements to enhance the space they live in and enrich their family life. These are considered long-term investments, as opposed to a vacation that comes and goes.”

Although economic uncertainty and high driving costs may curtail that originally planned road trip, there is no reason to melt away the idea of enjoying a summer of fun. Now is the time to make an intelligent investment and create a summer vacation without leaving your own home. For more information, visit www.APSP.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent