Gastric bypass in Latvia is getting more and more attention, but WHY?

Gastric bypass is the most popular choice of weight loss surgery in the UK, as NHS and NICE statistics annually show. Google Search analytics also prove an immense interest in it, however, aside from "gastric bypass on NHS" the other hotkey term is "Gastric bypass in Latvia." Surprised? Yes and no. 

One of the main reasons is the cost of gastric bypass surgery in the private clinics of the UK and the unfortunately small availability of it via NHS. 

Overall, bariatric surgery in Latvia has been on the rise for the last 3-4 years, if not more. And for some excellent reasons. 

Weight loss surgery on NHS

Since bariatric surgery via NHS is free of charge for the patient, these are naturally the most sought-after options. However, the qualifying sieve comes with tiny, sharp holes (none of which is the fault of NHS). 

  • To even apply, you ought to have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or more. You must prove to have tried other non-surgical means of weight loss unsuccessfully. You must agree on both rigorous processes before even getting listed for the surgery and to a long-term follow-up after surgery. 

  • The aforementioned pre-listing process includes several meetings with the bariatric team (dietologist and psychology professional included) and months of supervised weight loss. 

  • Many people fail one or another qualification along the road and for those who finally get enlisted, the wait begins. Due to unfortunately low priority and ever-small overall funds, the waiting can last 3-48 months. 

Gastric bypass in the UK

To those unfortunates who do not pass or cannot afford the wait, another option lies in a multitude of private bariatric clinics across the country. However, patient-funded gastric bypass costs fall between £9500-15 000 which makes this a non-option to many, if not most people. 

Gastric bypass cost abroad

The latter leads to a large number of people getting into bariatric tourism, a trendy name for seeking out a suitable foreign clinic and traveling there to have the surgery. Reasons? No special processes to pass before the surgery, except the logical „be fit enough for the anaesthetics and surgery itself“. Waiting time is measured in a few months instead of years. And depending on the destination country, much cheaper prices. 

Within this ever-growing trend, gastric bypass in Latvia is much sought after, and this is why - 

Weight loss surgery in Latvia

Speaking of numbers first, gastric bypass in Latvia costs between £4775-5686, and often, this is the all-inclusive price. The only extra which remains is a flight to Riga, and these short, about 1.5 h flights, often cost less than £100. 

The most popular and also cheapest gastric bypass in Riga lies with Weight Loss Riga, £4323, all-in-the-price, tailored after patients’ actual, unique needs and assured by hundreds of slimmer, happy people. 

Add to the latter personified, confidential quality service throughout the process and high success, and it is no wonder Latvia and WLR especially draw in more and more people. So, if in need, you now know where to look! 


3 Important Things to Do Before Giving Birth

Whether you’re expecting your first child or your fifth, giving birth can be a unique experience every time. There is a rollercoaster of emotions to handle, not to mention endless preparations to think about. It’s easy to see why so many parents forget to place essential points on their to-do list, when they’re rushing around shopping for diapers and clothes. If you’re already looking forward to a new arrival, it’s a good idea to start planning some important steps long before your due date. Here are some of the most crucial things you can prepare before giving birth, which are often overlooked by many parents.

Update Your Insurance

The last thing you want to think about when you’re looking forward to expanding your family, is what might happen if you’re no longer around one day in the future. However, the unfortunate truth is that life is unpredictable, and it’s critical to have provisions in place that keep your little one, and your surrounding family members safe if the worst should happen. If you don’t have life insurance already, start shopping around for the best policies online as early as you can. This will ensure you not only get the best deal, but that you can start the next stage of your life with some crucial peace of mind.

Prepare Your Baby Gear

Once you’re prepared from an admin standpoint, the next stage is stocking up on any essential gear you might need. If this isn’t your first child, you might be able to reuse some of the items you have retained from previous children. Alternatively, you can always look for ways to save money by shopping for second-hand goods, or asking from donations from friends. Remember, try not to get too focused on things like buying clothing and toys, as the chances are a lot of your friends and family members will gift these to you. Instead, concentrate on the critical items you need most, such as car seats, infant swings, and changing tables. 

Stock Up on Home Essentials

When you’re preparing for a new baby, it’s easy to forget about your own needs. However, it’s hard to look after your child when you’re constantly dealing with issues like running out of cleaning supplies, toilet paper, or even freshly made meals. If you’re worried, you’re going to be rushed when your child arrives, consider making some meals in advance and storing them in the freezer for those days when you just don’t have time to cook anything. It's also worth bulk ordering or buying some of the items you use the most frequently, like toilet paper, shampoo, soap, and diapers. You can even sign up for subscription deliveries from some online companies which can save you time and headaches.

Look Forward to Your New Arrival

While preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming at times, it’s all part of a memorable and life-changing experience. The key to success is making sure you take the time to think about what you and your child are really going to need going forward. Don’t forget to dedicate some time to looking after yourself too, with regular me time and self-care.


How Does Travel Help In Creating Bonds Between Parents And Kids?


Who doesn't remember their first trip with their family? The sights, places, and emotional connection you felt with your loved ones become an irreplaceable experience safely tucked away in your memory. This is what makes family vacations a beautiful occasion. It helps you rekindle your relationship with your loved ones and strengthen your bond. Your children need your attention. But it is not easy for them to ask you to spend time with them, especially when you are busy. 


Therefore, give them a chance to get to know you, and don't downplay the importance of going on a family trip. Hence, if you are curious to reclaim your bond with your kids, here's how going on a holiday helps:


  1. Creates Long Lasting Memories

Going on a trip with your family makes for priceless memories. You will never forget how your child cracked a funny joke, the meals you shared with your family, and the activities you went on together. If you are struggling to find the ideal location to visit with your loved ones, look no further. The US is home to many breathtaking places, one of which is Tennessee, the sunny and cozy state. 


Popular among most families, Tennessee has everything you need for an excellent family trip. Besides indulging in the delicious southern cuisine, famous landmarks and monuments like the Smoky Mountains are here too. This park is known for its tall summits that you can hike, trek, and climb with your children. You can also use this visit to introduce your children to nature and develop a love for these adventure sports. Near the Smoky Mountains is the quaint town of Pigeon Forge. Where numerous Pigeon Forge attractions like the Dollywood, Laurel falls, and Cades Cove await your arrival. As a result, you are left with the sweet memories of your children laughing, shared grins with your partners, and an extensive collection of pictures that deserve to go in albums.


  1. An Opportunity to Know Your Child Better

Traveling with your kids gives you more time to be around them. It makes them more comfortable and at ease around you. As a result, you may find your child talking more than they would, include you in every activity they're participating and ask you questions. 


So, if you have been craving a relationship with them, it is not unusual for children to be quiet or shy at home. 


When your children don't see you often or spend more time with you, they may find it hard to express themselves openly. Therefore, ask them their opinion on the venue when visiting a new location. Share a story about a family vacation from your childhood, and encourage your child to make new friends on the trip. These will collectively polish your child's self-esteem and bring them closer to you out of their shell.


  1. Enjoy New Experiences Together

Traveling to a new destination gives you immense exposure to the world. Every place has a story to tell. You learn about various cultures, their historical relevance, and how the tales of the past are relevant to the present. For instance, countries like Italy are known for their cultural diversity and rich history. Touring city to city will be a great learning curve for you and your children. You will get to build your knowledge about their ancient civilizations, get a gaze into the European renaissance and find out how their famous buildings like the pantheon came into being. It makes for great conversation with your children, and you can quiz them about what they learned.


Additionally, the pictures you take, and souvenirs you collect, will remind you of the time you shared. As your kids age, a token of their childhood will remain with you and become a priceless memory forever. The happiness and excitement your children felt in touring the world with you will always stay with them.


  1. Great For Building Trust

Venturing into a new place makes for a tremendous trust-building exercise. Your children will need you to guide, assist and inform them on what they need to do in this unknown location. So the more you exert yourself to help your kids, let them have fun, and be there for them when they're scared, you will get to establish a strong bond with them. It is not unusual for children to feel apprehensive outside their homes. They may feel overwhelmed by the surrounding sights, uncomfortable going into crowds, and frightened about trying out a risky activity or tasting a new dish. As a parent, you cannot focus on your enjoyment alone and let your child fend for themselves. 


Hence, respect your kid's wishes, boundaries, and limitations and work around them. Suppose your child is panicking about trying out a dangerous sport like water rafting or climbing a mountain. In that case, you can demonstrate the safety of these activities by going on them first. If your child wants to sit next to you, always make room for them. 

The same applies when you want them to try a new dish, especially if it's a cuisine they're unfamiliar with. You can start by sampling the meal in front of them to establish that the food is safe and delicious before encouraging them to try it. However, if your child continues to resist, you will need to back off and give them their space. 


Once you have your child's trust, your relationship with them cannot be torn apart. Your child will remember how you treated them when they felt most vulnerable. If you opt for punishing and scolding them for not being brave, this will push your child further away. The little things you take care of from being there for them, never leaving them alone, and if they need a break, allowing them to rest will mean the world to them.


Final Thoughts

Traveling is more than a way to relax and de-stress from everyday life. It is also an opportunity that allows you to rebuild a relationship with your kids and lets you bond with them. Nothing brings people closer than shared memories and experiences. Therefore, try going on as many holidays as possible with your children. It will help you make new memories with them and allow you to share your life stories with them while enjoying the company of your kids. You also learn much more about your children when you vacation with them.


Dental And Oral Care For Every Age: A Guide For Families

As a parent, you want to see your loved ones, especially your kids, smiling as confidently as possible. Their smiles speak of not only their happiness but also their overall health. That’s why promoting dental and oral hygiene is essential to your family health plan.

Promoting dental and oral hygiene is key to having a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. It’s more than telling your kids to brush and floss their teeth regularly. Its main goal is to make the process fun and simple so they’ll be willing to preserve their beautiful smiles.

But why is it so important? Because poor dental and oral health can result in a wide range of health issues. These include asthma, arthritis, and several chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Hence, keeping good dental and oral health is vital.  

The first step toward a healthy mouth starts with a visit to a trusted family dental clinic near you, such as Familydentalhealth.com or similar ones. Family dentists offer dental and oral treatment for all ages, from infants to toddlers to adults—a one-stop shop for your family’s oral care needs.  

So, where should you begin? This guide will help you discover the proper dental and oral care for every age. Read below to learn more.  

Dental And Oral Care For Infants And Toddlers

Dental and oral care is vital to everyone, but how about the teeth of your infants and toddlers? Of course, they’re all essential, and here’s why:  

  • They allow your child to grind and process food more easily.  

  • They help form the structure of your baby’s face.  

  • They allow your child to speak more clearly.  

  • They provide space for the formation of permanent teeth.  

That’s why keeping the tiny choppers of your little kids healthy is crucial.  

Your Toddler’s First Trip To The Dentist

Your toddler’s first trip to the dentist is a huge milestone. As a parent, you will be guided by the dentist on how to take care of your baby's teeth and maintain them properly. Although it sounds exciting, it’s alright to feel anxious about it since it’s your baby’s first time, and you don’t know how they’ll react. But that's completely okay. You and your baby will get used to it as you make it a routine to visit your dentist.

Experts recommend bringing your kids to the dentist (a pediatric or family dentist) as soon as they turn a year old. It will help ensure that their teeth grow properly and prevent dental issues.

Nevertheless, bringing your kids when they’re six months old might be better. This way, you can identify potential issues and risk factors regarding their teeth.

How To Take Care Of Your Child’s Teeth?

Brushing is the best way to take care of your child’s teeth. It will help prevent plaque buildups that can lead to tooth decay, weakening their teeth.   

Brush your children’s teeth at least twice a day—after breakfast and dinner—to ensure a strong and healthy set of teeth.

Here’s how to do toothbrushing properly:

  • For infants and toddlers two years and below, the amount of fluoride toothpaste you need should only be as small as a grain of rice. And when a tooth hasn’t come out yet, use a soft cotton cloth and wrap it over your index finger.   

  • Wet the cloth with water and gently wipe their gums.   

  • If their teeth start to come out, that’s when you need a toothbrush. Be sure to look for those with soft bristles to prevent hurting their ultra-sensitive gums.  

  • Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle across their teeth.   

  • Move the toothbrush gently in a circular motion—avoid back-and-forth motion so as not to damage their gums and teeth.   

  • Brush the inner and outer surfaces of both upper and lower teeth.  

  • Do this until all teeth are brushed properly—around two minutes.  

  • Brush their tongue gently.  

When your child turns three, increase the amount of toothpaste to pea size. Also, if they don’t know how to spit yet, there’s nothing to worry about. A small amount of toothpaste won’t harm them, but you must still teach and encourage them to spit as much as possible.

Your child should be able to brush their teeth when they reach two years old. And watch them as they do to ensure they’re cleaning their mouth well. Also, when the toothbrush bristles wear down, replace them immediately. If your child continues to use it, it will not do its job in cleaning the teeth and can harm their gums.

Does Your Child Need Flossing?

Flossing is the practice of removing dirt between teeth with the help of dental floss. It will help ensure that your teeth are free from plaque buildup since toothbrushing cannot remove all food particles stuck between your teeth.

Dentists advise parents to floss their child’s teeth as soon as two teeth grow side by side. It is crucial to your child’s dental and oral health because their gums are still weak. And this will ensure that no food particles get stuck between your child’s little white pearls.

However, encouraging children to floss regularly can be challenging. If that’s the case, consider giving them incentives to empower them. For example, you may give them a new toy if they floss to reward them for caring for their teeth.

What Are Other Things That Can Help Prevent Tooth Decay?

Here are some tips that can help prevent your kids from having tooth decay:  

  • Use A Feeding Bottle Only When Necessary: Feeding bottles should not be confused with a pacifier, so don’t use them like one. Otherwise, your child’s teeth may get damaged.  

  • Hold Your Baby When Feeding Formula: Don’t leave them alone in bed with a bottle of milk to prevent sugar and acid from building up.   

  • Remove Your Breast When You're Done Breastfeeding: When your child falls asleep during breastfeeding, gently remove your breast and lay them down in bed.  

  • Avoid Overfeeding: As soon as the first tooth comes out, avoid overfeeding your child. Only feed them at the right time or whenever necessary.  

  • Stop Using A Feeding Bottle: When your child reaches one year old, train them to drink milk from a cup or glass instead of a feeding bottle.  

  • Avoid Other Beverages: If your child gets thirsty at any time of the day, give them water. Don’t provide sugary beverages, such as cola and juice, to prevent sugary buildups that can lead to decay.  

Furthermore, dentists recommend coating your child’s first set of teeth with fluoride toothpaste to keep them stronger and protect them from potential decay.  

What Should Be Included In Your Child’s Diet?

Diet is crucial to maintaining good dental and oral health. If your kid eats sugary foods and beverages, they’ll be more prone to tooth decay. Sugary substances are food to bacteria that produce acids, which can cause cavities.

Keep in mind that cavity formation is much faster in infants and toddlers than in adults. That said, here are some tips regarding your kid’s diet:  

  • Only Give Breastmilk: A child 12 months old and below should not consume sugary beverages or water. Only breastmilk is beneficial at this age. Also, be sure not to add sugar or honey when making milk using formula.

  • Start Providing Water: After 12 months, start giving water every other meal. Still, no juices and other sugary foods are allowed. Also, don’t forget to rinse their teeth and gums with water to remove any sugar particles.  

  • Avoid Sticky Foods: Never give your little kids sticky snacks, such as gummies, that can get stuck between their teeth. Not to mention, they’re made with a lot of sugars—another reason not to give them gummies.  

  • Add More To Their Diet As They Grow Old: Add fruits, vegetables, and other healthy options like yogurt to their snack time. Still, you have to limit sticky and starchy foods that get stuck between their teeth.   

Follow these diet tips to ensure proper and healthy teeth formation for your infants and toddlers.  


Dental And Oral Care For Kindergarteners

When your child reaches three, most of their milk teeth have completely emerged. On their fourth birthday, you’ll notice significant developments in their facial structure and some gaps or spaces between their teeth. These gaps will prepare their mouth for permanent teeth.

At this age, your child should already know how to spit out toothpaste after brushing. So now, consider teaching them how to gargle using a fluoride mouthwash. Make sure to choose an alcohol-free one to preserve the oral microbiota (the good bacteria) in their mouth.

Here are some helpful tips to follow:

  • Use kid-friendly mouthwash. They’re often made with more gentle ingredients compared to those for adults.  

  • Be sure to read the instructions from the mouthwash bottle carefully before letting your child use it. Some are only once-daily use while others are twice-daily (morning and night).  

  • Make sure to store mouthwash in areas your children can’t reach.   

  • Watch them closely when they use mouthwash to ensure they don’t swallow it.  

  • Make sure your kids are done brushing and flossing their teeth before you let them use mouthwash.

  • Allow them to rinse their mouth using mouthwash for 60 seconds. Make sure they spit it out once done.  

  • Prevent your kids from eating anything within 30 minutes after they gargle.

Your child is now big enough to be left alone with the dentist. Sit back in the lobby and wait for your child to finish their appointment with the dentist. It is a good way to train your child in how to become an independent and responsible individual.

Furthermore, don’t forget to advise your kids about brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing after eating. Also, observe them and make sure they’re doing it properly.  

Dental And Oral Care For Elementary Children

Elementary age is between six and 12 years old. When your child reaches six, their milk teeth will start to come off to prepare the way for permanent ones.

The first set of teeth that often comes off is the front ones (the incisors—the middlemost four teeth at the upper and lower jaw). The teeth from the side of the incisors to the pre-molars will follow, and it may take a couple of years or until your child reaches 12.  

Here’s what to do when your child experiences discomfort after losing a tooth:

  • Prepare a saltwater solution and have your kids gargle it to rinse and clean their mouths.  

  • If there’s bleeding, get a tiny piece of gauze pad to cover the socket (the area where the tooth comes off).  

  • Ask your kids not to spit, as it can induce more bleeding around the area.  

  • If there’s no longer bleeding, use a cold, damp cloth to alleviate the remaining pain and discomfort.  

It may sound too early, but elementary age is the right time to schedule your children for their first orthodontic assessment. This dental evaluation will help determine potential and underlying concerns regarding your child’s dental and oral health.

If there’s a problem, make sure that your kids will receive the treatment they need as soon as possible. Don’t worry. The dentist will ensure your child gets the best care they deserve.

Dental And Oral Care For Middle Schoolers And Beyond

Middle school age, also known as the teenage years, starts at 13. By this age, congratulate your teens, for they already have a complete set of permanent teeth.

At this point, it’s best to schedule your teens for an orthodontic assessment and regular dental checkups, especially when they have dental alignment issues. If their teeth need realignment, they might be advised to get some braces or other orthodontic treatments, such as:  

  • Clear dental aligners, such as Invisalign

  • Archwires

  • Elastics or rubber bands that force teeth in areas where braces alone can’t handle

  • Clear plastic retainers

When teens reach 18-20 years old, their last teeth will erupt. These are called third molars, also known as the ‘wisdom teeth.’  

In most cases, wisdom teeth emerge at an awkward angle, stuck between small spaces and the second molar. These are called impacted wisdom teeth, and they can be extremely painful.   

Here are some simple home remedies to relieve the pain of impacted wisdom teeth:  

  • Use an ice pack to numb the area and reduce inflammation and swelling.  

  • Rinse with a saltwater solution to kill bacteria thriving in broken gums.  

  • Chew an onion on the affected area to maximize its anti-inflammatory effects. Then, spit out.  

Some people prefer to have their wisdom teeth extracted to relieve the pain, especially when simple home remedies don’t work anymore. Also, it pushes and adds pressure to your second molars due to the angle of their growth.  

Final Words

Good dental and oral care should be one of your family’s top priorities. It promotes a healthy mouth, a beautiful smile, and overall health. That said, always encourage your family to practice proper oral hygiene regularly. Brush twice daily and floss after every meal. It will help prevent plaque buildup and cavities that can cause tooth decay.


6 Ways Nurses Can Improve Quality of Life for Older Adults


As the population ages, finding ways to improve the quality of life for older adults is increasingly important. Nurses are in a unique position to provide care and support that can make a real difference in the lives of these individuals. Here are six ways that nurses can improve the quality of life for older adults:

Assist with Activities of Daily Living

Many older adults need assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, dressing, and using the bathroom. Nurses can help by providing practical assistance and emotional support. They can also teach patients how to perform these tasks independently. This can help older adults to maintain their dignity and independence. They can also provide referrals to community resources that can help patients with activities of daily living, such as home health aides.

Provide Social and Emotional Support

Isolation can be a significant problem for older adults, particularly those who can no longer get out and about as they used to. It can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. Nurses can help counter this by encouraging social interaction within the hospital or nursing home and with family and friends outside of it. This could involve arranging group activities like movie nights or outings, playing games, facilitating one-on-one conversations, or simply spending time talking with patients.


Many older adults experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness. Nurses can provide emotional support by listening to patients' concerns, providing reassurance and encouragement, and offering coping strategies. They can also help to connect patients with mental health services if necessary.

Upgrading Their Skills

Older adults often have complex medical needs that require nurses to have specialized skills and knowledge. Nurses can stay up to date on the latest developments in their field by taking continuing education courses and attending conferences. This will help them provide better care for their patients and improve the quality of life for older adults.


One way to upgrade your skills is by taking an online course in geriatric nursing. Finding a reputable institution that offers post masters AGACNP certificate online provides flexibility for working nurses and high-quality coursework. You will also be able to stand out from other job applicants while providing quality care for your patients.

Promote Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is essential for older people's physical and mental health. However, many older adults are reluctant to exercise due to concerns about pain, injury, or falls. Nurses can help by promoting physical activity and providing information about how to stay safe while doing so. They can also refer patients to appropriate exercise programs and support them in their efforts to stay active.

Stay Updated On New Trends and Developments

The healthcare landscape is constantly changing, and nurses must stay up to date on new trends and developments to provide the best possible care for their patients. This includes keeping up with new research, developments in treatments, and changes in government policy.

Using technology can help nurses stay informed and provide better care. For example, nurses can use apps to track patients' vital signs, access their medical records, and remind them of appointments.

Creating a Caring Environment

The environment in which older adults receive care can significantly impact their quality of life. Nurses can create a caring environment by providing individualized care, respecting patients' dignity, and promoting independence. Nurses can help by making the environment more comfortable and safe. This includes ensuring that the rooms are well-lit, providing plenty of seating, and removing potential hazards.


Nurses play a vital role in improving the quality of life for older adults. By providing practical and emotional support, encouraging social interaction, staying up to date on new developments, and creating a caring environment, nurses can make a real difference in the lives of their patients.

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