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11 Little Known Surprising Facts About Vaping

Electronic Cigarette

Vaping is not just about smoking and looking cool. Keep reading for 10 little known surprising facts about vaping.

Vaping has become more popular than ever.Everywhere you look, you’ll see someone with a vape australia pen.This is really no surprise, especially as marijuana laws continue to change.

If you’ve never vaped before, you might have some questions about it. You’ve come to the right place for answers. After all, there’s plenty to learn about the vape culture that might surprise you.

In this article, we take a look at some facts about vaping that you probably didn’t know. Keep reading to learn about the world of vaping for fun.

1. Vaping Is Popular Among Celebrities

As vaping becomes increasingly popular in the current culture, it should come as no big surprise that it’s also popular among celebrities. After all, many famous celebs have been open about their love of smoking and weed for decades.

Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Snoop Dog to Kate Hudson routinely document their cannabis and vaping habits on social media. 

Other celebrities who love to vape include Montel Williams, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lindsay Lohan, just to name a few. 

When it comes to the rich and famous, the popularity crosses every age and sex boundary, providing them with the chance to get high or simply enjoy a hit of nicotine without the downside of smoking.

2. Vaping Can Help You Stop Smoking

Speaking of smoking, many people are turning to vape in a desire to kick the cigarette habit forever. After all, smoking is indeed an addiction that’s tough to give up. Fortunately, for those people hooked on nicotine, vaping can provide a way out. However, if you’re looking for a way to enjoy vaping without the addictive effects of nicotine, you might ask yourself, “Is there a vape with 0 nicotine?” That’s right, thousands of people have already managed to escape the cigarette addiction bus by vaping instead. Plus, it’s much more pleasant for everyone around you than the smell of those nasty cigarettes.

That’s right, thousands of people have already managed to escape the cigarette-addiction bus by vaping instead. Plus, it’s much more pleasant for everyone around you than the smell of those nasty cigarettes.

Another great advantage of vaping over smoking is that you have a multitude of flavors to choose from. There are literally hundreds of flavors available on the market, so you could try something different every day. 

Imagine never having to pile nasty cigarette butts in a filthy ashtray ever again. This is a new freedom more and more people are getting to experience as they discover the joys of vaping products like the IQC vaporizer

3. Vape Oil Doesn’t Burn

Here’s something cool about vaping you likely didn’t know: vape oil doesn’t burn. 

Surprised? We thought you might be.

The truth is that the oil inside the chamber of your vape pen simply evaporates. This happens when the coil heats up with the click of a button, instantly heating the vape oil and causing it to evaporate and produce the flavor you’ve come to love so much.

This is really a simple process. The battery allows the coil to heat up the oil rather than a flame burning the tobacco of a cigarette, which releases carbon monoxide that will be breathed into the lungs of the smoker. Thus the smoke generated by the vape pen doesn’t pose the same health risks as that of a tobacco cigarette.

4. Vaping Culture Is Very Diverse

As the popularity of vaping increases exponentially year after year, you’ve probably noticed that a distinctive subculture has begun to arise with it.

People are naturally drawn to anything that inspires a sense of community. Vaping certainly does this. After all, many people are originally attracted to vaping out of an intense desire to be liberated from their addiction to smoking. So that creates a shared passion and bond.

There is also the simple excitement of a shared interested, and the ability to come together to explore and share the common bond of this new passion. Vapers love to discuss tips, share their experiences, swap favorite vape oil flavors and talk about their vaping habits.

This sense of community thus gives rise to an entirely new world of art and fashion, as well as the desire to spend time together in local hot spots, travel destinations, and online forums where ideas can be shared among a worldwide network of vape enthusiasts.

5. Not Yet Regulated by the FDA

Believe it or not, the FDA doesn’t yet regulate vaping. This might come as a surprise but it’s true. 

Though the FDA regulates many types of tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigarette tobacco, and smokeless tobacco, it hasn’t yet begun to regulate tobacco-related products used in vaping. This includes nicotine gels and dissolvable tobacco.

Under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, manufacturers are required to disclose all ingredients in the products and receive full FDA approval before they’re allowed to market them.

In addition to this, the FDA would forbid the sell of vape-related products to be sold to minors. And all labeling would have to include health warners regarding the contents of the products.

6. Vapes Are Reusable

This is one of the top reasons vaping has become popular so quickly. People who smoke often go through hundreds of cigarettes each month. This is both expensive and messy. 

After all, cigarettes create tons of ash and then have to be disposed of. This is such a waste, plus it’s terrible for the environment.

Most vape pens are designed to be refilled so that they be used again and again. Some are made for single use, but most aren’t.

Reusable vapes feature a chamber where you simply load a fresh e-juice cartridge and then continue on your way. 

If you are looking to add to your vape accessory collection, be sure to check out Suorin Air Pods.

7. Cheaper Than Cigarettes

As mentioned above, vaping is significantly less expensive than smoking cigarettes.

In fact, the price of cigarettes has risen to crazy levels in recent years. Many brands now cost $6-$8 per pack. So when you consider the fact that many people smoke at least a pack a day, the price of this habit can be like making a car payment each month. 

Those who have made the switch from cigarettes to vaping have discovered the immense savings of their new nicotine delivery system. After all, the vape is reusable. Thus all one has to do is load a fresh e-juice cartridge rather than invest in a new pack of cigarettes.

Once you’ve experienced the cost savings firsthand, it would be hard to imagine ever going back.

8. There Are Vaping Competitions

Vaping tastes great and provides a satisfying nicotine hit, yet it’s also fun. Many people have turned blowing smoke rings into an art form. Vape pens produce enough smoke to allow you to be incredibly creative.

Thus an entire subculture of vaping smoke ring competitions has been born. You’d be amazed by what people are able to do by sucking in smoke from their vape pens and then controlling the release of the smoke to form intricately-formed patterns.

This is all part of the community that has resulted from people coming together to share their passion for vaping. These people are creative, competitive, and passionate about demonstrating their talents to those around them while having a blast in the process.

9. Vape Was the Word of the Year in 2014

Here’s a factoid that might just blow your mind: In 2014, Oxford Dictionaries declared that it had made “vape” the international word of the year.

This goes to show just how popular vaping has become. The term has now officially entered the mainstream. 

This might not seem like a big deal, but it definitely is a sign that things are changing in the world.

10. Vaping Was Invented in China

The history of vaping actually goes back to 2003. That was the year that a Chinese inventor named Hon Lik began researching ways for the human body to be able to consume nicotine without combustion.

One day it occurred to him to use a piezoelectric ultrasound element to vaporize nicotine solution. This was the big idea he’d been searching for.

Although vape pens no longer operate by the same method Hon Lik discovered, his work formed the foundation for the battery-powered heating elements used in the majority of modern vape pens.

11. Vaping Is Great for Weight Loss

We’ve already mentioned the fact that many smokers have used vaping to help them give up the cigarette habit. Vaping has also proved useful for curbing your appetite, thus helping you lose weight.

After all, smoking has been used for years as an appetite suppressant. Vaping has the same effect, yet without the same unhealthy drawbacks of smoking.

When you stop to think about it, buying a bottle of yummy-flavored e-juice is cheaper than indulging in the most tempting calorie-laden meal on the menu. Thus you enjoy all the flavor with the guilt or adding inches to your waistline.

The Most Surprising Facts About Vaping

Once you’ve read these facts about vaping, it should be easy to understand why using a vape pen has been become popular so quickly. It’s clean. It’s healthier than smoking. And you are able to save money while still enjoying the delivery of nicotine.

Plus, it tastes better and is less offensive to everyone around you. What more could you ask for?

Click here to learn about nicotine-free vaping.

Why VoIP is the Most Functional Way to Communicate in the Business World By Tom Senkus

Author’s Bio: As an international entrepreneur and freelance writer, Tom Senkus shares his knowledge on the latest developments in telecommunications, particularly for emerging startups and new businesses. For more information on his published output and writing services, visit www.tomsenkuswriter.com 

Have you been looking for the most efficient way to expand your business presence worldwide? If so, you may have been relying on outdated models of communication, such as landline telephones. The truth of the matter is that cloud computing has revolutionized the business world for telecom, resulting in emergent tech like VoIP, or “Voice over Internet Protocol.”

VoIP enables callers to reach one another anywhere in the world instantly, where audio data is transmitted instantaneously through the cloud. Simply put, packets of data are aided by VoIP and related software (referred to as a “softphone”) to be sent and received in real-time without latency issues or degradation of sound quality. For those in the business world, this means that you can keep in touch with clients and customers in the same way that you would with domestic callers.

Virtual Phone Numbers

Of course, VoIP is the technology that makes this global communication possible. However, while VoIP is the technology behind modern telecom, one of the greatest advancements from this technology has been Virtual Phone Numbers.

Simply put, virtual phone numbers are identical to “normal” phone numbers in function and look. For function, callers only need to dial the phone number as they would any other domestic phone number and they’ll be put in touch with the recipient; your business. As for the look, virtual phone numbers contain the same amount of digits, country codes, and region/area codes that are tied to specific parts of the world.

However, the power of VoIP is what goes on behind the scenes; this is what makes virtual phone numbers a powerful business tool. Let’s take a deeper look into the benefits made possible by virtual phone numbers to gain a deeper understanding of why VoIP is the most functional way to communicate in the business world.

Benefits of Virtual Phone Numbers

Using business phone numbers aided by VoIP technology make your business more accessible to the world. Consider international calling as a prime example. When international callers try to reach your business located abroad, they may face long-distance fees or have their call blocked by their service provider. Also, international callers may not know how to dial outside of their country – or they may prefer to only do business with organizations that they perceive as “domestic.” With virtual phone numbers, which are available in nearly every country in the world, your business circumvents all of these barriers to gain trust and authenticity in new markets.

There is also more to communicating than simply being put in touch with another party. Because virtual phone numbers are available in a variety of options, your organization can subconsciously communicate aspects that can attract, impress, and retain customers. Here is a look at the most common virtual phone numbers:

  • Toll free numbers: These types of virtual phone numbers communicate professionalism and enable callers to reach your business without incurring a charge. As mentioned previously, international callers may face obstacles with calling your domestic toll free number; however, virtual toll free phone numbers are available as ITFS numbers, which are International Toll Free Service numbers. ITFS numbers enable your business to extend toll free calling across borders without the caller receiving charges
  • Vanity phone numbers: As phone numbers with a visually-appealing series of digits, vanity phone numbers enable you to integrate your line of communication into marketing materials. For instance, placing a memorable vanity phone number on a billboard can substantially increase the number of callers reaching your business because the number is easily recalled and it stands as a symbol of your business being an expert in the industry.
  • Local phone numbers: If you’re looking to target specific markets, local phone numbers enable you to choose a country code and area/region code that local residents are familiar with. This means that the process of localization is greatly aided and helps open up lines of communication with those who would otherwise block/ignore your calls.

Last, because VoIP is an Internet-based technology, there are add-ons that can augment virtual phone numbers to greatly expand their functionality – and thus, your business model. Take, for instance, “time of day routing.” As one of the most popular add-ons, time of day routing changes the destination of where inbound phone calls are redirected. This means that if a customer contacts you after business hours, you can forward those calls to a self-selecting directory, voicemail system, or to a call processing center that can handle the call. Another add-on, called “CallMeClick,” enables those who browse your website to instantly initiate a call by clicking on a link on your website. It is because of these functions and more that VoIP and virtual phone numbers are at the forefront of modern business communication.

Using VOIP Services to Expand Your Business by Tom Senkus

Author’s Bio: Tom Senkus is an international entrepreneur and writer. With over 15 years of experience, he seeks to share his knowledge to aid startups and small businesses expand their global presence. For more information, visit www.tomsenkuswriter.com

Short for “Voice over Internet Protocol,” VOIP has been a pivotal component for modern businesses looking expand their operations. In this article, we’ll look at a number of ways to expand your business using VOIP, particularly its add-ons and functionalities.

Handling More Markets and Greater Call Volume

One of the best advancements in VOIP technology has the advent of “virtual phone numbers.” Simply put, when a virtual phone number is dialed by a caller, that phone call is forwarded to a phone number of your choosing (known as the “destination phone number”). This means that you can offer multiple phone numbers in different markets (nationally and internationally, all which route to your call processing center(s).

Identical in look and function to “normal” phone numbers, VOIP-powered virtual phone numbers are a great way to appeal to new markets, as your phone number will be indistinguishable from what customers in each area/country are used to. For instance, you can pick a toll free number in the United States while also offering an ITFS number to route calls to your business to attract a broader audience.

Most VOIP service providers, such as United World Telecom (https://www.unitedworldtelecom.com/) offer an add-on known as “simultaneous ringing,” which can allow multiple phones and phone numbers to ring at the same. This means that if your staff is away from the desk in one location, another customer service agent will be available to answer the call.

Reaching Customers

Another add-on that’s very popular with VOIP subscribers is “outbound calling.” Outbound calling allows businesses to use their virtual phone number to contact customers when dialing. Without “outbound calling,” customers will receive a long string of digits and numbers on their caller ID, which is more likely to turn off potential prospects. Therefore, using outbound calling — a relatively inexpensive service — can be a way to make cold calling warmer.

Expanding Internationally

Virtual offices and virtual locations are taking over how business is conducted in the 21st century. With VoIP, you can reach callers internationally anywhere around the world. This is because with the availability of automation, customers prefer to self-select through their own decisions until they’re ready to buy. This, in part, has made the traditional form of business expansion — which involves setting up a physical location — a thing of the past. Best of all, for the cost of a subscription to virtual phone numbers, you can provide the same customer service that a far-more-costly physical expansion can bring. Factors such as hiring foreign staff, leasing or purchasing property, filing fees, investing capital in a local economy, waiting for government approval, opening up a foreign bank account — all of these are par for the course with traditional expansion. These can be significant barriers to entry in international markets for startups and small businesses that are looking for a competitive advantage. Worse, most of these overheads have to be paid for in advance before even a single sale can be made.

In its place, your business can provide ways of interacting with your business without needing a face-to-face interaction. VoIP plays a big part in this new model of business, as well as other necessary tools to set up a virtual office/location, including:

  • A fully-integrated website (i.e. ecommerce solutions, inbound marketing materials, contact information, live chat options, etc.)
  • Online collaboration software (such as Trello, Slack, Teamwork, etc.)
  • Cloud-based storage

Once these elements are in place, your business can meet the needs of customers anywhere in the world. Of course, it is up to your business to integrate into new markets by the process of localization and comprehensively meeting your customer’s needs.

Complying with International Regulations

“Call recording” is a valuable add-on to your VoIP service. With this add-on, you can record all inbound and outbound calls, while also storing them for future reference. This can be a valuable add-on for companies that want to ensure that their customer service reps are following company protocol, while also protecting your organization in the event of disputes. Additionally, depending on the industry that you work in, you may be required to use call recording to comply with international regulations, especially in the finance and banking sectors.  

Top Five Important Facts About hematology test

Have you ever wondered about these questions when having a hematology test? Most people relate to doing such test as if it was some type of ‘healthy habit’. But what does that really mean? Here are five facts that will allow you to understand better how these tests work and how you should prepare for them.

TOP #5: What Should I Do Before Having the Test?

You may think that simply because you ate right before the nutrients didn’t have enough time to modify your body activity.

In reality, it may depend on the type of blood test they will make you. This is why is a useful question to ask the professional beforehand to make things clear.

As a rule, fasting for 8 to 12 hours is always recommended to keep the data precise. This is a reason why most people also make this appointments in the morning before breakfast.

TOP #4:Can I compare my results with anyone?

When you compare with other people’s hematology results it is very likely that the assumptions you make from the comparison are wrong.

This is because there is a component in the test that changes depending on your personal biological condition.

For someone who had relevant diseases in hs or her credentials, for instance, you should not expect to be evaluated with the same criteria as that person.

In other words, parameters like your age, blood type, sex, your physical activity could affect the outcome. Health standards in these tests results will be different according to your specifications.

TOP #3: Can I trust the given numbers?

Maybe comparing with other people’s numbers may not be the best decision. But you can be sure that blood tests are increadibly accurate.

The interesting fact is that every day the relentless technology progress strives to create better and better medical equipments.

Most of these hematology test centers take the privilege of getting such precise measurers from companies like Bellmed.com. This is why your doctor can make even predict the behavior of a potential disease in your body with at least 98.5 % of accuracy!

TOP #2: There is so many options. What is the best test for me?

Take the CBC Test. When you are starting doing this, this is the most complete and common analysis you can receive. When taking care of our health, there is nothing better than slowly moving from the most general revisions to the most specific ones.

Also it is the best way to avoid the mistake of taking tests you don’t need to make.

As stated before, ‘Complete Blood Count’ is by far one of the most economic and fastest tests to make. In addition, it gives your tester A LOT of diagnostic information you can use later.

Mind that when having a perfect health you probably wont need to do all the other specific and complicated analysis.

TOP #1: How Often Should I Take It?

For those of us who have almost no medical experience it may look dangerous taking tests too often. Even though taking it every day may be safe (don’t do it!), there is little interest in doing that. Body does not change dramatically all of a sudden.

Taking the hematology test at least once a year is more than enough to make a good revision. In the next 24 hours you would get your results.

You’ll notice that after doing his for years makes you feel a lot more secure about your health. Once you understand the observations and follow the advice it’s really easy to prevent any problems.

MYTHS ALERT: BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

Hormones – From regulating our digestive system to our bowel movements and reproductive organs, hormones play a vital role in ensuring our well being.

But our erratic lifestyle and age have a significant impact on balancing the hormones. When unbalanced, they can make the body functionality go haywire. Hormonal imbalance, for example, low testosterone level can result in unexplained loss or gain of body mass, infertility, hair loss. Similarly, a high estrogen level not only affects the body internally but externally and psychologically as well, leading to weight gain, overgrowth of body and facial hair, mood swings, panic attacks, etc.

But courtesy of the advancement in medical technology, hormonal imbalance can now be diagnosed and treated at the right time before the condition gets worse. One such treatment for balancing the hormones is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy(BHRT).

So what is BHRT?

A therapy wherein plant-derived estrogens are used to make hormones and replicated into estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Available in the form of pills, injections, creams, BHRT is beneficial in enhancing the levels of hormones that have dropped with age or lifestyle. It eases menopause symptoms, giving relief from hot flashes, mood changes, weight gain and more. All in all, it helps in improving the overall well being and quality of life.

But the limited knowledge of this therapy has led to the inception of concerning misconceptions that need to be immediately discussed so that you if you need, you can go ahead with the procedure without any apprehension:

 

  • BIOIDENTICAL AND SYNTHETIC HORMONES ARE SAME:

Synthetic hormones are engineered compounds while bioidentical hormones are plant derived. Also, synthetic hormones pose a significant threat to the human body ads their potency level is beyond what the body needs and can tolerate. Synthetic hormones pose a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases in women. Contrary to this, bioidentical hormones which are structured to function like the naturally produced hormones helps relieve the body of hormone related issues.

 

  • BHRT LEADS TO BLOOD CLOTS:

When HRT was still in its infancy, the treatment was not customized for every individual woman, which gave rise to this myth. But, the technological advancement in the medical field has improved the BHRT process, which no longer poses any threat of blood clots as it is customized for individual body and functionality.

 

  • BHRT IS ONLY FOR WOMEN:

Men with low testosterone can also undergo BHRT. Low testosterone levels lead to fatigue, increased body fat, insomnia and in worse cases, men have hot flashes, lower sperm count and decrease sex drive. With BHRT, the hormones get regulated, and natural testosterone level is achieved, helping men get back to their healthy and happy self.

Now that the air regarding BHRT has been cleared, if you are thinking of going ahead with it, consult an acclaimed treatment center that provides comprehensive BHRT. From consulting to screening, to lab test to treatment, the sessions should be tailored per the respective women’s problem. Go for a therapy program which includes periodic monitoring to keep a tab on how you’re doing with the therapy and the prescribed treatment.

Call now for a free screening session!

Can Adolescents Benefit from Residential Eating Disorder Treatment?

Exploring different treatment options is an integral part of the recovery process for adolescents and their families. Typically, depending on location, there are a variety of residential treatment programs for youth that are designed to help young people find the tools they need to change the way they think about food, nutrition and body image. But the idea of leaving home to complete treatment can be stressful for teens and their loved ones. Not only do residential treatment programs often require teens to leave school, but they can be disruptive to their home life, social events and other commitments. However, common eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa should be taken seriously and won’t simply go away over time. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of residential treatment services for adolescents and the programs available at Clementine’s residential treatment centers.

What Is Residential Eating Disorder Treatment?

Typically, residential treatment programs for eating disorders are the most comprehensive, intensive and structured recovery programs available. With this level of care, adolescent clients are able to address the underlying issues related to their eating disorder and plan for any ongoing treatment needs after completing counseling at residential treatment centers. Adolescents in this level of care should be medically stable, with no need for intensive medical intervention. However, they may be considered psychiatrically impaired and unable to respond to the type of care available in outpatient care of partial hospital treatment.

Residential treatment centers help to create a nurturing environment that provides necessary structure and support so that teens can stabilize mentally, work towards changing their disordered behaviors surrounding food and regain control of their lives. They may also work with a network of professional caregivers ranging from medical doctors and nurses, psychologists and counselors, nutritionists, yoga instructors and more.

Individual and group counseling sessions are also common practice in residential treatment programs for youth. Additionally, many residential treatment centers include family counseling as part of their adolescent recovery program. Being able to rely on a strong support system at home is essential for many young people with eating disorders. Life after completing residential treatment is often one of the more challenging aspects of recovery, so having people that they can lean on when things get tough is vital. At Clementine, we understand the importance of family and friends to the recovery process and have a variety of resources available to help educate and involve loved ones while teens are in treatment.

Additional Treatment Options

Depending on their individual needs, adolescents may also benefit from other types of eating disorder treatment, including:

  • Intensive Outpatient Care
  • Inpatient Treatment
  • Partial Hospital Care

Who Can Benefit from Residential Treatment Services?

Research shows that early intervention is a significant factor in long-term eating disorder recovery. But having access to a reliable support system both in and out of treatment is also very important. Residential eating disorder programs are great for offering adolescents a safe and controlled space to gain the tools needed for life after recovery. In this type of setting, adolescents can focus their time and energy on making positive changes in their lives and how they plan to continue this work after completing treatment.

The goal of most residential eating disorder centers is to prepare adolescents for the everyday stressors and challenges they may face once they leave treatment. In addition to these new coping skills, adolescents will learn how to handle mealtimes at school and work, balancing their academic and social commitments post-recovery and the benefits of maintaining structure in their lives as they move forward through high school and on into young adulthood.

Contact Clementine Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an eating disorder, residential treatment may be the best option to help you begin on the road to recovery. Interested in learning more about our adolescent eating disorder treatment programs? Call us today at 1.855.900.2221 and be sure to speak with one of our compassionate admissions specialists.

An In-Depth Look at Bulimia Nervosa Causes

Doctors make a bulimia nervosa diagnosis when patients present symptoms of uncontrollable overeating episodes followed by self-induced vomiting (purging) immediately afterward. Other signs of bulimia nervosa include abuse of laxatives and/or diuretics and excessive exercise to avoid gaining weight. Health problems such as malnutrition, tooth decay, and anemia often affect people with bulimia nervosa as a consequence of purging after meals before food can be absorbed by the intestines. Like other eating disorders, bulimia nervosa causes involve multiple biopsychosocial factors interacting negatively during a person’s childhood and adolescence.

Types of Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa treatment programs differ according to a patient’s symptoms. For example, the purging type of bulimia involves overeating, purging and abusing laxatives, diuretics or enemas. The non-purging type involves compensatory behaviors like excessive exercise and fasting without the purging and use of over-the-counter medications to prevent weight gain. Nearly 70 percent of bulimia nervosa patients are diagnosed with the purging type of bulimia.

Bulimia Nervosa Causes

Psychological factors, genetics, and sociocultural influences all play key roles in the development of purging and non-purging bulimia nervosa. Examples of psychological disturbances experienced by teens and adults presenting signs of bulimia nervosa include:

  • Low self-esteem
  • Depression
  • Generalized anxiety
  • Body dysmorphic disorder
  • Personality disorders (specifically, obsessive-compulsive and borderline personality disorders)

Society, Culture and the Media

Sociocultural reasons for the beginning of an eating disorder primarily involve the pervasive Western world’s idea of the perfect body–that of being thin and “healthy-looking.” The dual pathway (sociocultural) model of eating disorders theorizes that pathological internalization of this thin ideal will lead to extreme dissatisfaction of the body, recurring dieting behaviors and an eventual, full-blown eating disorder like bulimia nervosa. However, the dual pathway model does not examine the reason why some teens internalize sociocultural influences to the point of needing bulimia nervosa treatment.

Genetics of Bulimia Nervosa

Signs of bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa are thought to be moderately heritable. Twin studies of purging, dietary restraint, and self-induced vomiting indicate these behaviors are between 45 and 72 percent inherited via genetic markers. In addition, fixation on weight, food and body dissatisfaction further support heritability of an eating disorder. Although molecular genetic research into the development of eating disorders is just beginning, certain genes have already been identified as possible markers for bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, specifically the estrogen receptor ß gene, the UCP-2/UCP-3 gene, and the 5-HT2A receptor gene.

The Role of Serotonin in Bulimia Nervosa

Anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive behaviors frequently accompany eating disorders. Reduced serotonin levels in the brain are known to be partially responsible for numerous psychological problems involving mood, sleep, appetite, and motivation. Evaluation of patients given a bulimia nervosa diagnosis have found significantly lower levels of blood serotonin content which could promote the development of signs of bulimia nervosa.  However, researchers have not determined that only serotonin dysregulation is a primary cause of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa.

Bulimia Nervosa Treatment Methods

Following a clinical bulimia nervosa diagnosis by doctors specializing in eating disorders, treatment may involve the following:

  • Psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, dialectical behavior therapy)
  • Psychosocial interventions
  • Nutritional education/rehabilitation
  • Family therapy
  • Group therapy

Patients entering residential treatment for bulimia nervosa often require some level of medical stabilization before they can begin psychotherapies. Physical signs of bulimia nervosa can be severe enough to warrant emergency medical services. Long-term, self-induced vomiting often causes callusing and unhealed abrasions of the fingers and knuckles, periodontal disease due to stomach acids eroding teeth and gums and esophageal bleeding. Symptoms of moderate to severe malnutrition include dehydration, heart arrhythmia, absence of menstrual periods in women, fainting and even shock.

Is Binge Eating Disorder an Addiction to Food?

Signs of binge eating disorder (BED) include eating large amounts of food at one time, an inability to control how much food is consumed and deliberately concealing episodes of binge-eating from family members. People with BED eat until they are uncomfortably full and no longer hungry. Powerful feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression overwhelm them following BED episodes–guilt over eating too much, anxiety about being overweight and depression over failing to control their compulsion to overeat.

Is Binge Eating Disorder an Eating Disorder or an Addiction to Food?

Ongoing research into binge-eating disorder causes has consistently demonstrated that consuming sugary, high-fat, high-carbohydrate foods actually elicit changes in the brain similar to changes seen in people with a drug or alcohol addiction. In particular, when someone with binge-eating disorder eats large amounts of food they specifically crave, the neurotransmitter dopamine floods the brain and stimulates the brain reward system. This is exactly what happens when somebody abuses opioids or stimulants and becomes addicted to them.

With new research suggesting that signs of binge-eating disorder may develop as a result of brain chemical responses mimicking the same responses seen in substance abusers, overcoming binge-eating disorder may eventually include therapies currently applied to people with addictions to heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine.

Neuroimaging scans further support the theory that binge-eating disorder is a type of food addiction. Brain scans of people with BED show evidence of sensitivity to “reward” cues and greater reactivity in a brain area called the medial orbitofrontal cortex when compared to control groups. Additionally, activation differences in the ventral striatum (neural networks involved in decision-making, motivation, and reward) and the amygdala (regulates memory, emotions and survival instincts) were detected in overweight adults with BED compared to overweight adults without BED. Neuroscientists think this suggests BED patients have greater, more enhanced visual processing and motivational sensitivity to palatable foods than people without signs of binge-eating disorder.

Given that behavioral and brain similarities appear to exist between substance abuse and binge-eating disorder, the theory that BED is partly a severe dependence (addiction) on food accompanied by mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and guilt is being thoroughly investigated and more commonly accepted by eating disorder psychiatrists.

Binge-eating Disorder Causes not Associated with Food Addiction

While stimulation of the brain’s reward center appears to play a key role in the development of binge-eating disorder, other causes have also been clinically validated, such as a genetic component, low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, sociocultural influences, personality disorders and medical problems involving the hypothalamus, a brain organelle controlling appetite. With so many factors possibly involved in the origin of a binge-eating disorder, individualized treatment programs for overcoming binge-eating disorder could feasibly include educational courses about the genetics of BED, how the media and culture shape our view of physical attractiveness and the science behind neurotransmitters, emotions and thought processes.

Are Bulimia Nervosa and Anorexia Nervosa Considered Food Addictions?

Individuals with anorexia nervosa may severely restrict their food intake. However, a common symptom of anorexia nervosa is an obsession with how much food is consumed. An individual exhibiting this eating disorder may read food labels, count the number of bites they take and weigh food portions to avoid gaining weight.

Individuals with bulimia nervosa may eat large amounts of food regularly, but may make themselves throw up or exercise excessively to prevent weight gain. Abuse of diuretics and laxatives is also a common symptom of bulimia nervosa.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of binge eating disorder, call today for immediate, professional help.

 

This Goes To All Women Who Need To Know That He Just Isn’t Worth It

This goes to you – the woman who settles for being second best. The woman who cares about his feelings, needs, and desires more than she cares about her own. The woman who prioritizes his happiness over her own. The woman who puts her heart last on her list of priorities.

But, I am here to tell you that you’re worth more than just being someone’s second choice. You’re worth more than being someone’s option, a favorite pastime, or fun.

Trust me – he is not worth it.

He is not worth your sadness, your tears, and your anguish. He doesn’t deserve you.

He doesn’t deserve your kindness, your compassion, your affection. He doesn’t deserve your love.

Because what’s the point of loving someone who doesn’t reciprocate your love? What’s the point of giving your heart to someone who doesn’t bother to appreciate it? What’s the point of making a priority someone who only sees you as an option? What’s the point of devoting your time and energy to someone who doesn’t even deserve a second of your attention?

Therefore, trust me when I say – this man is not worth it.

Let go of him.

Stop thinking and hoping that he’ll change. Stop waiting for him to love you the way you love him. Stop waiting for him to treat you the way you deserve.

Because, you see, some people don’t want to change – they love themselves exactly the way they are.

Therefore, stop dreaming about the future you two are going to have. Stop making him a part of all your plans for your future.

Stop thinking that one day you’ll mean to him as much as he means to you now. Stop thinking that one day he’ll look at you the way you’re looking at him now – with eyes full of warmth and love.

Stop thinking that if you change the way you talk, smile, and move, he’ll start appreciating and loving you.

Stop justifying his bad behavior and making excuses for his lies, false promises, and lame excuses. Stop giving him chances – you’ve given him plenty of them. You’ve forgiven him time and time again.

Stop waiting for him to apologize to you because he never will. Because he’s one of those people who consider themselves flawless. They never think that they make mistakes or that they have something to apologize for.

Therefore, never expect to hear him say: “I’m sorry, honey, I know I hurt you.”

Girl, don’t wait for him to become the person you want him to be. Don’t wait for him to give you the attention and respect you deserve.

Don’t call him. Don’t text him.  

Don’t allow him to have power over your emotions and actions.

Don’t wait for him to love you.

Don’t let his cold heart kill the flame of strength that burns inside you. Don’t let his indifference make you lose your sense of self-worth. Don’t let him make you think that you don’t deserve to love and be loved.

Instead, let go of him. Spread your wings and go search for genuine love and happiness elsewhere.

Should you have any questions regarding this topic or one of your own interest, feel free to email me at [email protected]   

12 Unusual Things Only An Introverted Extrovert Can Relate To

Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Or perhaps both?

Honestly, I wasn’t even aware that someone can possess traits belonging to both personality types until I learned that I am an introverted extrovert myself.

I am a gregarious, outgoing sort of person. I enjoy socializing with others and making new friendships. Yet, I also enjoy spending time all on my own, perfectly tucked in and isolated in the silence of my room.

Hah, I know, all of this is too confusing for you, but trust me – it’s confusing for me as well.

So, let’s get down to business. Here are 12 unusual things that just my fellow introverted extrovert will understand:

1. You like spending time with your friends, but then again, there is nothing you enjoy more than just watching movies on Netflix or reading a book on your couch.

2. You like talking to people face-to-face, but you despise talking to someone on the phone or via webcam.

3. You love going to birthday parties and concerts and watching movies in the cinema with your friends, but having to attend too many social events makes you feel overwhelmed and stressed.

4. You like being in other people’s company, but you don’t like being in other people’s company at the same time. When you’re around one person, you feel very comfortable and relaxed, whereas being around more than one person at the same time drains your energy.

5. Because you’re friendly and talkative, you appear as if you are an open book,  but, in fact, you don’t like sharing your secrets with anyone.

6. Everyone thinks that you are tough, but just your close friends know how fragile and closed off you are.

7. You have no problem talking with someone for hours, but you truly hate small talk and gossip and you try to avoid these at all costs.

8. You value the time you spend with your friends and family, but there is nothing that you value more than spending time on your own.

9. You love silence a lot, and you love even more those people who don’t ask you right away, “Oh, is everything okay with you” the same moment you choose to be silent.

10. After hanging out with your friends in a crowded, loud place, you always feel a strong need to spend some time on your own so as to recharge your batteries.

11. Generally, you’re on good terms with everyone, yet when you really like someone, you make sure you never lose them.

12. Spontaneity? What’s that? Spontaneity is only an abstract term for you. You can’t prepare yourself for how friendly and open or distant you will need to be unless you make all the plans in advance.

Should you have any questions regarding this topic or one of your own interest, feel free to email me at [email protected]