Author: Marlinda Davis

  • The Role Of Probiotics In Digestive Health For Women Over 40

    Probiotics can seem like a trendy health buzzword, but these tiny powerhouses play a significant role in maintaining balance in our digestive systems. They’re essentially live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially for your gut. Often referred to as ‘good’ or ‘helpful’ bacteria, probiotics are a vital component of a healthy digestive process.

    You might wonder how probiotics differ from prebiotics. Well, prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that help good bacteria in your stomach grow. So, they’re the food that probiotics feast on. Together, they’re a duo that enhances gut health and boosts the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, fight off harmful bacteria, and even aid in mood regulation.

    When it comes to strains of probiotics, not all are created equal. Some of the most common ones include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which play unique roles in improving gut health. For instance, Lactobacillus aids in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and fighting off ‘bad’ organisms that might cause diseases. On the other hand, Bifidobacterium is essential for breaking down dietary fiber and producing essential nutrients like vitamins.

    Probiotics are an essential part of digestive health, and knowing these basics can set the stage for making informed decisions about incorporating them into your life. Learning about these little helpers opens the door to improved wellness, particularly digestive health for those days when our bodies need a bit more TLC.

    Why Women Over 40 Need Probiotics: Addressing Unique Challenges

    As we age, especially hitting the big 4-0, our bodies naturally experience a host of changes. Hormonal shifts become more pronounced, and elements like digestion can start to play up. A remarkable tool in managing these changes is probiotics, which can offer significant support to the digestive system and beyond!

    During this phase, women often deal with menopause-related digestive issues, such as bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort. It can be frustrating, but probiotics are here to help. They can aid in maintaining balance in the gut microbiota, promoting smoother digestion, and helping to mitigate some of those uncomfortable symptoms.

    Not only do probiotics support digestion, but they also play a key role in boosting the immune system. This is crucial, as a strong immune system is your body’s frontline defense against nasty infections and illnesses, allowing you to lead a more vibrant life.

    And here’s a bonus: probiotics might also support mental health. The gut-brain connection is real, and the healthier your gut, the better your mood might be. This means you might find yourself feeling sharper, more focused, and emotionally balanced.

    All these factors make probiotics a must-consider addition for women entering their 40s and beyond, helping to navigate the unique challenges this life stage presents with a bit more ease and comfort.

    Choosing the Right Probiotics: A Practical Guide

    When faced with shelves brimming with different probiotic options, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Picking the right strain for you significantly impacts its magical benefits, particularly as you hit this exciting age bracket of 40 and beyond.

    Not all probiotics are created equal, so keying into the specific strains is essential. For women over 40, Lactobacillus acidophilus can be a go-to, helping manage those hormonal changes impacting digestive health. Meanwhile, Bifidobacterium longum may be your ally in breaking down dietary fibers more efficiently.

    Understanding those confusing labels can be your roadmap to picking the ideal probiotics. Look for supplements that clearly specify CFUs – colony-forming units – indicating the number of active microorganisms. This can guide you towards products that offer the potency your gut might need.

    It’s wise to seek personalized advice, too. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor probiotic choices to your specific health needs, ensuring you’re not just going for something trendy but genuinely beneficial.

    Remember, choosing probiotics isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about listening to your body, knowing what it needs, and selecting products that align with those needs. With the right choice of probiotics, you can maintain that harmony in your digestive system that paves the way for overall wellness.

    Incorporating Probiotics into Your Daily Diet

    Getting probiotics from supplements is one thing, but integrating them into your daily meals can shape a more natural and enjoyable routine. Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are not just delicious but are packed full of beneficial bacteria your gut craves.

    Imagine starting your day with a parfait loaded with probiotic-rich yogurt, topped with a handful of fresh berries, and perhaps a sprinkle of your favorite seeds. It’s a breakfast that’s as tasty as it is gut-friendly.

    For lunch or dinner, how about adding some kimchi or sauerkraut on the side? These fermented foods bring your taste buds alive while soothing your digestive tract with every bite.

    Smoothies can also be a fantastic way to sneak in some probiotics. Blend in a splash of kefir or probiotic yogurt, and you get a powerful, gut-friendly boost without compromising flavor.

    While it’s great to go crazy for probiotics, there’s a bit of caution worth mentioning. Some people might go overboard, causing digestive disturbances rather than helping. So, the trick is introducing these foods gradually, allowing your system to adapt comfortably.

    Probiotics can seamlessly become a part of your everyday cuisine, boosting your wellness menu with delicious variety. The little changes add up, helping you take control of your digestive health in a fun, flavorful way.

    Lifestyle and Probiotics: Building an Integrated Approach to Digestive Health

    Probiotics can indeed work wonders for your gut, but they’re just part of the bigger picture in maintaining overall digestive health. A well-rounded approach includes other lifestyle choices to keep everything running smoothly.

    Exercise plays a crucial role in gut health by improving bowel function and reducing inflammation. Regular physical activity, even just a daily walk, supports your probiotics in their quest to keep your gut balanced.

    Staying well-hydrated is another simple, yet powerful tool. Water aids the digestive process, helping probiotics do their job more effectively. So, keep that water bottle close, especially on busy days.

    Managing stress is something we all know is important, and it can do wonders for your gut, too. Stress disrupts your gut flora, and while probiotics help, combining them with stress-reducing techniques like meditation or yoga enhances their benefits.

    Consistency is key. Sticking to a daily routine involving exercise, hydration, stress management, and probiotics can make all the difference. Balance is everything, and a consistent routine supports this balance.

    Hearing personal stories from other women over 40 who have embraced such a lifestyle can be inspiring. Many find that incorporating probiotics and these healthy habits leads to transformations not just in their digestive health, but in their well-being overall.

  • Best Tips for The First Time Home Buyer

    Best Tips for The First Time Home Buyer

    Hey there! My name is Marlinda Davis and I am a real estate agent with Allen Tate Companies based in Concord, North Carolina. I am THRILLED that you are here to learn more about buying a home.

    As a first-time home buyer it’s of utmost importance that you are properly informed and knowledgeable so that no one can take advantage of you’re not knowing. I am especially thankful that you have come to me for guidance during this uncertain time.

    As a real estate agent, I work hand in hand with people who have not bought a house before but also those who haven’t bought one in a while and there are a few things I found they needed a little extra support with. This led me to share my 5 Best Tips For First Time Home Buyers plus one bonus that will help you easily implement them.

    For your convenience, I will list them here then go into more detail below. You can click on the link to be forwarded to the exact location on the page should you want to read one more than the others. I’ve also included a YouTube video where I speak on the same topic.

    My 5 tips are:

    1. Organize your finances
    2. Interview 2-3 mortgage bankers/brokers
    3. Get info about Downpayment & Closing Assistance
    4. Needs & Wants Assessment
    5. Pre-approval is not a guarantee

    You will have to read to the end of this post to find out what my bonus tip is but it’s a good one! 🙂

    If you have any questions or need to find out some sort of information, you can click the button below to get in touch. So without further delay, let’s get into more detail about what you need to know before you begin the search for your slice of the green Earth.

    5 Best Tips For The First Time Home Buyer

    (Click here to watch this video on YouTube)

    Organize your finances

    Whether you have a job that pays a W-2 or run your own business that is paid with a 1099 or other forms of payment, you will need to have your finances in order. Keep an account of how much money is coming in and also money that is being paid out. Some examples are:

    • bills
    • purchases
    • business expenses (if you run your own business)
    • travel expenses
    • personal expenses
    • personal account statements
    • and more!

    Have a record that goes at least 2 years back, especially if you are a business owner. I know this from experience as my husband and I ran into this issue personally as we run our own lawn care service.

    Different mortgage loans will have different requirements but I’m the type of person that likes to be the most prepared. That way, you will already be organized should something unexpected come up. Have something digital that holds onto your files for you and keeping track of your finances on a platform like QuickBooks does miracles in this area.

    When you’re ready to get everything it’s a matter of pulling the right dates, printing documents, and putting them neatly in a file. Trust me. It might be a little extra work upfront but in the long run, it makes everything go a lot smoother.

    Interview 2-3 mortgage bankers/brokers

    Chances are, if you’re not buying in cash, you will likely need to get some type of mortgage. There are several types of mortgages that are offered. Some examples are:

    • FHA
    • USDA
    • Conventional
    • VA (veterans only)
    • etc

    Much like the loan and requirements vary, the lender and their policies, procedures and knowledge/skill will vary as well. My recommendation is not to settle for the first banker or broker you speak with.

    Interview 2 – 3 different mortgage banker/brokers so that you can find the best package and also someone who you feel comfortable working with. You will also be better informed about your options if you ask the right questions.

    Never be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to keep asking the same question even to the same person on different occasions. I can’t tell you how much I’ve learned simply by asking multiple sources the same questions. This is not to say that someone is more or less smart, on your side or anything of that nature.

    People have different experiences, experience different moods on different days, and face it, some people take more pride in their work than others. If after the third one you still haven’t found someone you like keep interviewing. This is one of the biggest investments in your life. Take ownership of creating the best experience for yourself.

    Get info about Downpayment & Closing Assistance

    If you watched the video already you’ll know that before I became a real estate agent, I lacked an understanding of the added expenses of buying and selling a home like:

    Fees like these would have definitely blindsided me and I don’t want you to be taken by surprise by them either. While you are speaking with your lender, talk to them about down payment and closing cost assistance programs. Also, be sure to get a clear understanding of all the costs you will be paying.

    A good real estate agent will be able to help you as well. I know this is a lot of information at once so should you need any assistance with questions please feel free to get in touch with me through my contact form

    Click here to ask me your questions.

    Needs & Wants Assessmentbest_tips_for_the_first_time_home_buyers_needs_and_wants (Small)

    Buying a home is exciting right!? Sometimes with exciting things, our minds can go a little crazy with all the ideas, potential, what-ifs, and more! Well…at least mine does, haha! 🙂

    I want you to slow down and think about the things you really need in a house compared to things that might not be as important or necessary. For instance, as I mentioned in the video, do you really need 5 bedrooms if its just you, your significant other and your dog. Or maybe you do need 5 rooms if you have multiple kids, a home-based business and like to have family visiting who aren’t from the area you live in.

    We’re talking about this next but once you get your pre-approval you will have a better understanding of what you can afford. The number will be able to guide you in what you can really get for the amount you can afford.

    Pre-approval is not a guarantee

    First of all, let me clear the elephant in the room. There is a big difference between a pre-approval and a pre-authorization. In my mind, the pre-authorization would be the important one but it’s not!

    In order to begin a meaningful home search that doesn’t waste you, your Realtor® and everyone else involved’s time, you will need to get a pre-approval. This is a brief assessment of your financial portfolio, credit score and different things that determine the amount of money your lender will allow you to borrow.

    The thing is that even with a pre-approval, at the end of the day it isn’t the mortgage and doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you will get the amount it quotes. There are a number of factors that affect the bottom line. One of the biggest things I will stress is during the entire home buying process, do NOT open up any new credit lines. This will greatly impact your credit score which ultimately changes the amount you can borrow.

    There are other things that affect the amount your lender will loan you like the house appraisal and which mortgage loan you choose to go with. So think of your pre-approval as a good signal instead of a guaranteed amount of what you will get.

    Bonus Pro Tip for The First Time Home Buyer

    As promised, I have a pro tip for you that will make all this easier. That is to get a GOOD real estate agent.

    A good agent/broker will have contacts to other good sources such as mortgage lenders, attornies, and other entities you will need throughout your home buying process. S/He will also be able to hold your hand through every step you need to take so that things don’t creep up on you and catch you at the last moment or even cause you extra fees. And in real estate, fees are never cheap!

    So how can you find a good real estate agent? Ask around. Find people who have bought or sold houses in the past year or two and ask them who they used and what their experience was. If you want to work with me feel free to contact me through my contact page.

    I hope this information has helped you get a clearer understanding of some things that you need to know before and during your home buying process. I did not want to make it too overwhelming for you so if you have any questions, comments, or any other need at all please feel free to contact me by clicking the button below. I will be more than happy to help you no matter what part of the country or world you are in.

    Click here to contact me with questions or other needs!

    Talk to you soon!

    Your real estate advocate,

    Marlinda Davis

    Marlinda_Davis_North_Carolina_Real_Estate_Broker_Agent_Realtor

  • Tour North Carolina: Gold Hill Market & Grill

    Tour North Carolina: Gold Hill Market & Grill

    You might not know this but I’m not a born and raised North Carolinian. Though I do love NC, I was born on a little island in the Atlantic called Bermuda.

    I guess its destiny that I ended up here considering the NC cape is the closest point in the US to Bermuda. Cape Hatterus. Camp Lejeune. Jacksonville and even Charlotte were all familiar names of locations in North Carolina.

    But Gold Hill? Never even heard of it (& most people haven’t even in North Carolina!).

    Yet this is where my husband grew up and this is where we still live today. So where is this elusive town and why is it so special? Let’s have a chat about the Historic Town of Gold Hill, North Carolina.

    Looking For An NC Real Estate Broker? Click Here Now!

    Where Is Gold Hill, NC?

    If you go southeast 15 miles on US Highway 52 from Salisbury, North Carolina or 18 miles northeast of Concord North Carolina, you will come across the Historic Town of Gold Hill.

    Don’t blink! This town is so small you just might miss it. Known for its rich source of gold in the early to mid-1800s this quaint town has been sleeping out on the far eastern side of Rowan county for too long…until now!

    With scenic views and only a caution light to let you know you’re going through it, this town of Gold Hill still has a couple of hidden treasures within. One of which we’re going to take a look at today.

    Gold Hill, NC Map

    (Click here to see a map of Gold Hill, NC)

    What Are Some Things To Do In Gold Hill, North Carolina

    (Click here to watch this video on YouTube)

    Being a small town in the country, one thing I really appreciate about this area is the scenery. My hubby laughs but I absolutely LOVE that there are trees EVERYWHERE! You won’t find that in Bermuda or in big cities.

    Some other activities that you can enjoy here are:

    • Cycling
    • Hiking
    • Walking & Dog Walking
    • Shopping
    • Food & Dining
    • Gold Mining (for realz!)
    • and more 🙂

    It’s a place to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy nature. The wildlife here is amazing. Birds, squirrels, butterflies, interesting little creatures that you don’t see every day.

    Another thing I love here is the people. Some of the most friendliest, caring group of people you’ll ever meet! Or they stay to themselves. I don’t know about you but that sounds like a win in my book! No trouble and a good time.

    Gold Hill Market & Grill

    Among the many gems of North Carolina, you might not expect there to be a Korean Restaurant inside a little country gas station. That’s exactly what you’re gonna find here!

    Gold Hill Market’s owners are Korean and they bring a nice splash of diversity to the area. They serve a combination of country & Korean favorites like:

    • Bulgogi (so good!)Beef_Bulgogi_from_Gold_Hill_Market_In_Historic_Gold_Hill_NC
    • Cheeseburgers
    • Kimchi (my favorite!)
    • All kinds of biscuits (bacon, egg and cheese ftw!)
      • sausage
      • bacon, egg and cheese
      • sausage, egg and cheese
      • you get the picture!
    • hot dogs
    • and more!

    Is your mouth watering yet?! I know mine is. Luckily for me it’s just down the road from my house.

    I think imma grab me a bulgogi plate for lunch while I watch today’s real estate training. I graduate from the program tomorrow by the way! 🙂

    Gold Hill, NC Real Estate

    As you may or may not know, my name is Marlinda Davis & at the time of this writing, I am a real estate broker partnered with Allen Tate Realtor® Concord, NC. My specialty is residential real estate but I can connect you with someone in any area of real estate including finance, insurance, commercial, etc.Marlinda_Davis_North_Carolina_Real_Estate_Broker_Agent_Realtor

    That being said, I would not be doing you any kind of good service without touching on North Carolina’s housing market.

    Partly because, well, that’s my job but even more important than that because the housing market is incredibly busy right now for buyers AND sellers. Gold Hill, NC real estate availability is no different.

     

    (Search here for available listings in Gold Hill, NC or surrounding areas)

    Now keep in mind, Gold Hill is a small town so you can expect that there won’t be as many homes for sale as a larger area like Rockwell which is the next town over or a larger city like Salisbury or Concord. 

    You also want to consider your options like:

    • having more land or being closer to the city
    • city sewer or septic
    • peace and quiet or hustle and bustle

    And let me tell ya, there’s no right or wrong answer here. Its all up to you, your family, partner, spouse, and whoever will be living in the home. Or the purpose ya’ll are buying the home for. For instance, a rental investment which is one of mine and my hubby’s personal goals as well.

    The best thing to do is that all parties involved with the purchase of the property speak with a REPUTABLE real estate agent like your personal agent or if you are looking for someone to speak with I’m more than happy to chat, no contract or costs.

    What If I Want To Sell Property?

    If you have even the slightest thought in your mind to sell, now is a great time to do it. Covid, warm weather, jobs, safety and much more has prompted a sizeable migration into North Carolina, even the rural areas like Gold Hill & Rockwell.

    I can attest to that because there along with the stats I’ve personally witnessed a change in:

    • Traffic even on slow days like Monday
      • not to the capacity of cities though. For instance, rural areas like Rockwell typically have no traffic after about 7 or 8 pm. There’s traffic even past these hours.
    • Diversity! Which is wonderful! I’m such a fan of diversity <3
      • age, cultural, ethnic/race, gender identifications, and more!
      • Being in an interracial relationship I’ve been told many time that my daughter will likely face bullying because of it. Sometimes it made me feel guilty to have to put her through school but now with the increase in diversity I feel a lot more at ease. I never doubted my daughter would enjoy school but I don’t want her to have to be bullied because of her beautiful self.
    • Home Value
      • I can not promise you what your home will be valued at. What we can do is meet and talk about your options.
    • And More!

    So What Now?

    Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, it can be a scary thought to take that initial step into the unknown. I can totally relate but at the same time, time doesn’t wait for anyone.

    Have you ever did something you were really afraid of doing but were so happy about the results afterward? Like asking someone out and they said yes or going to a social event for the first time knowing no one in the area.

    It might be different for you. You might be someone like my daughter who has never met a stranger in her life!

    Either way, I’m here to help make your transitional process go as smoothly as possible. If you want to learn more about buying, selling or renting in North Carolina, please reach out to me by phone or email. Click the button below to get in touch!