For many travelers, long trips during the holidays can be stressful, especially for those dealing with back pain. Pain management specialists at the Cleveland Clinic recommend a few simple strategies to ease discomfort. Using a pillow behind your lower back can help support proper posture, while booking an aisle seat on flights allows you to stand up and stretch more often. Bringing a neck pillow can also improve comfort during long periods of sitting.
Cinnamon, a staple in many seasonal treats such as mulled wine and ginger cookies, offers more than just warm flavor. Research shows the spice—derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree—has several health benefits. According to Healthline, cinnamon may help lower blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and provide powerful antioxidants. It may also have antiviral properties and help prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Experts note that Ceylon cinnamon is the preferred variety, as it is considered safer when consumed in higher amounts.
As many households gear up for guests with intensive cleaning, it’s important to use caution with household chemicals. Bleach should never be mixed with ammonia, as the combination creates a toxic gas called chloramine. Mixing bleach with acids such as vinegar or drain cleaner is also dangerous and can produce harmful fumes that irritate the eyes and burn the nose and throat. Taking a few safety precautions can help ensure a healthier, hazard-free holiday season.