Problem: Article: Vitamin D is an important nutrient for the body. Vitamin D is involved in the proper functioning of the immune system, cell growth, and cell regulation. It also aids the body in numerous ways, such as encouraging calcium absorption, promoting bone growth, and aiding in bone remodeling. Vitamin D prevents rickets, osteomalacia (softening of the bone), and osteoporosis (brittle bones). It has also been associated with cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment in older people, asthma in children, and even cancer. Low levels of Vitamin D also contribute to the risk of colon and pancreatic cancer. Vitamin D deficiencies can increase the risk of high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases, insulin resistance, and Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Some people are more at risk than others for vitamin D deficiency. If you are in one of the at risk categories, make sure to eat as much vitamin D as possible. However, even if you don't fall under the typical category of someone who might be deficient, you could still be at risk. Have your blood tested to find out whether or not you are deficient, especially if you fall into one of the following groups: Elderly adults Infants who are breastfed Those with darker skin Individuals who do not get enough sun exposure Individuals who are obese, overweight, and those who have had gastric bypass surgery People with fat malabsorption conditions Those allergic to milk Anyone who eats a vegan diet For people ages one through 70, they need 600 IU (15 mcg) of vitamin D a day. Under one year only needs 400 IU (10 mcg), and over 70 needs 800 IU (20 mcg). Vitamin D can be taken as a supplement, as either D2 or D3. You can also get vitamin D from the sun. Spend 10 to 20 minutes in the afternoon sun two to three times a week without sunscreen. Make sure you expose you face, arms, and legs to the sun. Using a tanning bed is not the same as spending time in the sun. Make sure to consult a physician before taking any supplements, especially if you are on other medications.
Summary: Know why vitamin D is important. Learn who is at risk for deficiency. Know how much vitamin D you need. Understand where else to get vitamin D.

Problem: Article: Stack your plates and put them in the microwave. Keep your microwave on its regular setting and heat them for 30 seconds per plate. Once they are finished, use an oven mitt to remove the plates since they will get hot. Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, usually around 150 to 200F (66 to 93C). Once the oven is hot, place your stacked plated inside and leave them there for a couple minutes. Use an oven mitt to take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Use a toaster oven that's large enough to fit your plates if you want to preserve energy. Plate warmers look like a large foldable heating pad that you can stack plates on. Plug the plate warmer in and turn it on. Wrap the entire plate in the warmer and then place another plate on top. Continue stacking the rest of your plates to heat them thoroughly for 5 minutes before you serve your food. Plate warmers can be purchased online or in kitchen specialty stores. In a pinch, you can use a large heating pad meant for backs. These can be purchased at your local pharmacy.
Summary: Microwave the plates to heat them quickly. Put the plates in the oven at its lowest setting if they are oven-safe. Purchase an electric plate warmer so you can still use your appliances.

Problem: Article: Motion sickness happens because there is a disconnect between what the inner ear is sensing and what the eyes are seeing. It's also caused by the nerves in the limbs. Therefore, a child looking outside the car or plane will perceive movement, so they are less likely to get motion sick. Looking out the front window is best. Watching something in the car, such as a movie, or reading a book can make motion sickness worse. It increases the disconnect between the outside movement and your child's body not recognizing movement. Therefore, it's best to have your child skip these distractions if you know they have problems with motion sickness. In addition, avoid other situations that cause motion sickness. While you child can't avoid every instance of motion sickness, as being in the car is a primary cause, teach your child to avoid other places that may cause motion sickness. For instance, watching 3D movies can cause some people to be motion sick. Roller coasters and even swings or other playground equipment can also be a problem. Many people find that distractions can help with motion sickness. Try playing a game with your child when they're feeling sick or put on their favorite music, both of which can help them not feel as sick. Another good distraction is using soothing scents. Lavender or peppermint can be soothing, and it can give your child something else to think about besides feeling sick. In fact, some people are sensitive to bad smells when they're motion sick, so it can help cover up those. Chewing peppermint gum can also be a good distraction. Some people find that ginger helps, so try giving your child ginger candy to reduce the nausea. The distraction and the ginger can help with the motion sickness. Don't give candy or gum to kids under the age of 4 because it is a choking hazard. Don't let kids of any age suck on candies in a moving vehicle because sudden stops and starts may cause them to inhale and choke on the candy. Sips of clear liquids can help to calm your child's stomach. Water is best, but any clear liquid can help to settle their stomach. Some people also have good luck with fizzy drinks, such as lemon-lime soda or ginger ale. Of course, staying still can be difficult for any child. However, having your child try to not move their head and body can help with the symptoms of motion sickness. Try having them rest their head on a pillow as they look out the window. Crack a window to let some fresh air into the car. It can keep your child from getting overheated. Plus, the fresh air may help the child feel better. If it is too hot or cold, try taking the air off recirculate in your car, which may help some. If you're on a plane, open the air vents for circulation. Once your child starts to get motion sick, it can help to take a break. If you're in the car, stop for a little while so your child's body has time to adjust to not moving. Walking around or laying down with their eyes closed may help while you're stopped. If you're in a plane, encourage your child to walk up and down the aisles. You can also try putting a cool cloth over their head to ease the sickness.
Summary:
Tell the child to look out the window. Make sure they aren't looking at books or movies. Help them learn to distract themselves with sound or games. Add soothing scents. Try having your kid suck on something. Offer clear liquids. Have your child stay as still as possible. Let in some fresh air. Take a break.