To ensure that they are getting the best for their health, shoppers read ingredient labels. The toothpaste ingredient label is often forgotten.
“You will brush your teeth 1,000 times per year or more, and each time you do, you will ingest some toothpaste. If you think that is not a problem, think again,”Dr. Harold Katz is a Dentist, Oral Health Expert and Dentist. “Some of the ingredients in many commercial toothpastes are undeniably bad for you.”
Here’s a list of basic toxic ingredients Dr. Katz recommends consumers be aware of:
* FD&C blue dye No. 2. Although it’s found in many toothpastes this dye can cause severe allergic reactions. The Center for Science in the Public Interest cautions against using it because of possible learning and behavioral problems.
* Sodium lauryl sulfate. According to the American College of Toxicology it can cause skin inflammation, irritation, and canker sores. The ingredient caused depression, diarrhea, and even death in laboratory rats.
* Triclosan. The anti-microbial ingredient is listed as a pesticide and is used in OTC toothpaste and hand soap. The Environmental Protection Agency requested more research due to triclosan’s adverse effects on estrogen and thyroid levels.
* Saccharin and aspartame. Both artificial sweeteners are listed on the Center for Science in the Public Interest’s list of additives to be avoided.
What toothpastes should I use?
Katz suggests that people who want to avoid problematic ingredients purchase an “ethical” toothpaste brand like TheraBreath (www.therabreath.com), Weleda’s Salt, or Tom’s of Maine. TheraBreath, by example, is vegan, kosher, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, gluten-free, and gluten-free.
Katz suggests that you apply the same rules nutritionists suggest for food to your oral care products. “Look for a toothpaste with natural ingredients like Aloe Juice and Tea Tree Oil. Xylitol is an excellent cavity-fighting sweetener used by both Spry and TheraBreath in their effective toothpastes. And avoid toothpastes with added colors — they serve no purpose and can actually decrease the whiteness of your teeth over time.”
The pace of life today is rapid. The rise of digital technology has allowed people to communicate with each other via the internet and simultaneously check their children’s soccer scores. Consumers can expect the same conveniences and benefits from all businesses, except their insurance companies, thanks to the internet age. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.
Being insured is not enough, especially with nearly two-thirds American households earning less than 2002. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is important for both financial and medical recovery.
Recent research found that 66% would not be able to adjust to the high financial cost of serious illnesses or injuries. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, rising healthcare costs have forced employers to take cost-saving measures that are putting employees under greater financial pressure.
* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.
* Increasing employees’ share of premium.
* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.
A lot of people will have to wait for up to a few months before receiving their insurance payments. Many insurance companies are able to provide customers with fast service thanks to modern technology and better understanding of their needs. This is just one example. AflacIt is almost rare for insurance companies to offer policies that include claims processing, approval, and payment in a single day.
In the past, fast payment policies were a luxury. It is a necessity in today’s world. It’s vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.
Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.
