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A collection of my articles with a lifestyle focus, including e-commerce articles. If you'd like to send me a potential resource for a future article, or if you'd like to commission or hire me, email me at npyles86[at]gmail[dot]com.

Better Report

7 Medicare Mistakes You May Be Making - Better Report

More than 70 million Americans are on Medicare. Whether you’re 65 or older or have an eligible disability, Medicare can be a necessary lifeline that helps reduce the costs of medical care, prescriptions, and more. But the amount of information and the necessary steps involved in signing up or navigating a potential change in your plan can be overwhelming. We talked with Danielle Roberts, co-founder and Medicare insurance expert at Boomer Benefits, about the mistakes you could be making when it comes to Medicare — and how to avoid them.
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The Least Healthy Alcoholic Beverages - Better Report

The best option is to avoid alcohol completely — after all, “no drinking means no alcohol-related risks, such as liver damage, sleep problems, and heart or cancer issues,” Thomas says. But it isn’t always so simple, because everyone’s lifestyle is different. “If abstaining from alcohol means you avoid social situations and instead spend time on screens or feeling lonely, this is not likely the healthiest route,” says nutritionist Amelia Winslow, M.S., MPH, VP of marketing at Pop & Bottle.
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The Healthiest Meal Options at 15 Fast-Food Restaurants

To that end, we asked registered dietitian nutritionists Talia Follador and Vanessa Imus for their picks at some of the top fast-food restaurants nationwide. Keep in mind, however, that “most fast-food meals exceed sodium targets,” Follador says. “The goal isn’t perfection but rather making choices that include protein, carbs, fat, and fiber when possible. That combination helps promote satiety and prevent potential rebound eating.”
Better Homes & Gardens

These Lightweight Dresses Make Us Excited for Summer—and They’re All Under $40

Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, a barbecue with your neighbors, or a day on the beach, the warm weather can compel you outdoors. When it does, you deserve to step into the sunshine feeling cool (literally) and confident, not weighed down by heavy fabrics. Donning that breezy sundress or a cute, sleeveless number can be a simple but convenient way to step out looking fabulous.
Better Report

6 Odors Around Your House That Could Be Unsafe

Not all smells around the house are good ones — and we’re not talking about the burnt casserole from last night’s dinner. Certain odors indicate dangerous issues that require immediate attention. Here are a few of the most common, unsafe smells around your home that you shouldn’t ignore.If you smell sulfur, don’t check your fridge for rotten eggs: The smell comes from an additive to natural gas (which is itself odorless) and usually indicates there’s a dangerous gas leak.
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How To Put Out Every Kind of Fire - Better Report

A fire can cause immense damage to your home and property and even put your life at risk. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there were more than 300,000 residential fires between 2014 and 2023, which caused over $11 billion in damage. The right fast-acting response can save your home and your life.However, not all fires should be handled the same way. Nicholai Allen, an active wildland firefighter and CEO of the fire safety company MAUS USA, says that “using the wrong method can make a...
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Should You Freeze Your Credit?

Thanks to conflicts around the world — which bring an increased risk of cyberscams — experts have suggested keeping a close watch on your credit. 


Having a good credit score carries a lot of weight in the modern world. It makes it easier for you to buy a home, lease a car, and even get approved for an apartment. So, if you’ve received a notification that your information has been compromised, you’ve lost your purse or wallet with all of your personal identification, or you’ve started getting...
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Why Are People Rubbing Banana Peels on Their Faces?

Studies have shown the peel itself has even greater levels of antioxidants. However, “there is zero scientific evidence to suggest rubbing a banana peel on your face will help with any … skin conditions or signs of cellular aging,” Dr. Shamban says. She adds that the “banana or peel won’t penetrate the matrix or that skin barrier.”


The comparison to Botox is also faulty. Botox is derived from a toxin produced by bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The targeted injections weaken or paralyze facia...
Better Homes & Gardens

This Cozy Velvet Quilt Feels Like Your ‘Favorite Flannel Shirt’—and It’s on Sale at Amazon

The holiday season has come and gone, and now we're in the midst of the longest month of them all: January. It's not only the time of year that I begin to question my outspoken love of winter, but it's also the season I fight an ongoing battle with my bedtime temperature. My body tends to fluctuate between being too hot and too cold throughout the night. This often results in me needing about eight different blankets, but with my window cracked open a bit to feel just right. I'm always drawn to...
Better Homes & Gardens

The Best-Selling Stylish and Cozy Sweaters You'll Live in This Winter—All Under $50

As the temperatures start dropping, my motivation for outfit creativity starts to dwindle. Throwing on a sweater is one of my favorite winter-ready outfit choices. That's why I love having a plentiful supply in my closet. They can go with any wardrobe choice, whether I'm donning a pair of worn-in jeans to go Christmas gift shopping or putting on a stylish skirt and boots for an upcoming holiday party.
Better Homes & Gardens

Amazon's Hidden Outlet Section Has Top Brands Like Eddie Bauer, Nespresso, and More Up to 72% Off

With the holidays approaching and the year's end drawing near, you are probably looking at a lengthy to-do list that includes a lot of prepping—and shopping. Whether you are getting the house ready for guests, upgrading your own winter wardrobe, or making plans for your 2026 resolutions (like working out more and finally starting that dream balcony garden), Amazon’s Outlet has just about everything you'll need—all at a fraction of the price.
Better Homes & Gardens

10 Clever Amazon Home and Kitchen Gadgets Under $10 That'll Make Everyday Tasks a Lot Easier

I always appreciate it when I can find ways to add convenience to my home without breaking the bank or taking up too much of my energy. That's why I'm all about studying up on the latest organizational hacks, because I'm sure they'll give me just the right tip or technique I need to inspire my next home refresh. I especially love finding tips on using cleaning supplies or equipment I have around the house in new, unexpected ways.
Better Report

The Two-Minute Test to See if Olive Oil is Past its Prime

Olive oil is a flavor-enhancing ingredient that makes almost every dish taste special.  You can add olive oil to just about everything, whether you have a basic plate of noodles or an extravagant dish of grilled meats and vegetables. However, unlike wine, which gets better with age, olive oil can lose its flavor over time. If you’ve discovered a neglected bottle in the back of your cabinet, you’ll want to check if it’s usable first. Try this two-minute test that will let you know if your olive o...
Better Report

8 Safety Items You Should Always Keep in Your Car

Going on a road trip has always represented freedom. You get to place the world’s problems on pause and drive towards new adventures. But while hitting the open road on a whim sounds fun, you don’t want to forget about an important need: safety. From car-related emergencies to risky weather to health concerns, you’ll want to take a few essentials to keep yourself and others safe. Don’t worry, preparing for the unexpected doesn’t have to mean overwhelming your car or causing unnecessary anxiety....
Better Report

How to Create the Perfect Backyard Movie Theater

I’ve always been a movie buff, but these days, I prefer the comfort and convenience of having the theater experience at home. With a simple projector and screen, I’ve completely transformed how I enjoy movies. You can do the same in your own backyard with only a few pieces of equipment — no major DIY skills needed. At home, moviegoer annoyances like people playing with their phones in the dark theater or increasingly expensive snacks are no issue. It will become the ultimate cinematic experience...
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Get in Touch

If you are interested in hiring me for a writing project or want to send me a source I can potentially use for a future assignment, email me at npyles86[at]gmail[dot]com.