Online shopping is both easy and fun. To get the best bargains, however, it is necessary to check and compare the costs of items before picking where to buy.

 How to Shop Smartly Online?

The increasing penetration of the internet and the ease to shop from home has led to exponential growth in online shopping. Moreover, the e-commerce sites provide a level playing field to all entrepreneurs and connect them directly to potential buyers. The platform is mutually beneficial to both the retailers and the consumers. However, online shopping has its own demerits.

An unsuspecting consumer is an easy prey for smart retailers who may dupe them with expensive good. Hence, it is prudent to follow specific steps that can help consumers to save money while doing online shopping. 

What are the different steps to shop online smartly?

A handful of tips that can make you a smart online shopper are :

1) Track prices
On E-commerce sites, the prices of the products are continually changing. Based on different analogies, the prices of goods vary. Even on the same day, the costs can change multiple times. It is therefore essential to keep track of the prices of the products you want to purchase. Nowadays, e-commerce sites send email alerts during the sale or any other promotional event. You can register yourself on e-commerce websites and get the benefit of email marketing.

You can also create an account and receive alerts during a sale or can use websites like savelist and camelcamelcamel  to track the prices of goods. By monitoring the prices, you can purchase the products at the discount prices. 

2) Use Cashback or Reward shopping sites
Certain websites help consumers get cashback or discount on their online purchase. These sites offer discount coupons and help consumers save money. A consumer should create an account on these sites to avail the offers. Some of these sites are: 

• Ebates
• Wikibuy
• Earny 
• Swagbucks
• Bitwalking
• Fronto
• Mobee
• Mypoints 

Checking for reward coupons or cashback is one of the easiest and simple way to drive a bargain while purchasing goods online.

3) Search on promo codes sites

In case of failure to get any bargain from discount coupon sites, a consumer can also check for promo codes on different sites such as:

• Retailmenot.com
• Groupon.com
• Coupons.com

This is one way of getting the goods at a bargain and become a smart shopper. 

4) Compare products across different e-commerce sites
Before making a purchase, it is essential to check all the options available on various e-commerce sites. Apart from the prices, there are some other things a consumer should dwell on, such as:

• Return policy
• Easy instalments
• Warranties
• Shipping chargesDate and time of delivery

By comparing the goods on various sites, a consumer can drive a bargain and also strike a deal that is best suited to his requirement. There are certain price-comparison websites like mysimon or bizrate that help consumers to compare goods prices and take the decisions accordingly. 

5)  Search goods on Google 

Before purchasing any item, type its name in Google, and you get a comparable price chart of the product available on different e-commerce sites. Another website that can make your work simple is priceblink . This is another way to shop smartly online. 

Shop Smartly
Online shopping is secure and fun if you abide by the rules and take smart steps to drive the best bargain. You will feel good about your decisions; however, for getting the best deals online, you need to go that extra mile and learn the tricks to become a smart shopper. 

Image courtesy - Google images

Protein insufficiency affects about 1 billion individuals globally and is rare in the industrialised world. Insufficient protein consumption leads to a variety of health complications, including muscle loss and an increased risk of bone fracture, among others.

9 Hidden Signs of Protein Deficiency

What are Proteins?

Proteins are the large molecules, building blocks of tissues that are required by our body to perform various functions. Proteins are generally required for : 

Cells require protein to produce enzymes and hormones. 

Protein helps in the healing of body tissues.

It helps in blood clotting.

It makes the immune system strong.

Protein plays a vital role in the absorption of essential nutrients in our body.

It is the foundation of your hair, body muscles, and skin.

It helps in transporting oxygen.

In an emergency (due to low carbohydrate), protein also provides energy to the body. 

How Much Protein is Required? 

The body's protein requirement is based on various factors such as age, gender, and physical activity of an individual. Since protein is required to perform different metabolic functions, the protein requirement varies for every individual. However, according to RDA(Recommended Dietary Allowance), adults need .8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight every day.

Look Out for Nine Hidden Signs of Protein Deficiency

Doctors prescribe a balanced diet with an adequate quantity of protein for healthy living. Protein deficiency has significant health hazards for individuals. The following nine hidden signs of protein deficiency should never be overlooked :

1)  Weak Immune system  

Deficiency of protein results in a weak immune system. As a result of protein deficiency, an individual falls sick very frequently.

2)  Changes in your skin, hair, and nails

Brittle nails, dry skin, hair loss, and dull hair are also signs of protein deficiency.  

3)  Your body healing suffers.  

Proteins help repair and rebuild new cells and tissues in our bodies—the deficiency of protein results in the body's slow healing process.

4)  Bones fracture easily

   Your body needs a sufficient quantity of protein to build muscles and increase bone density. The deficiency of protein results in muscle wasting and increases the threat of bone fracture.

5)  Loss of concentration 

Lack of concentration or difficulty focusing on things and problems in retaining information also indicates protein deficiency. Proteins are required for the proper functioning of neurotransmitters in your brain. The lack of protein thus results in poor concentration.

6)  Difficulty in sleeping 

Protein is required to create neurotransmitters like serotonin that regulates the sleep cycle. The deficiency of protein causes serotonin deficiency leading to insomnia.  

7)  Mood swings and depression 

Mood controlling neurotransmitters such as dopamine are synthesized by protein. These compounds, when available in less quantity due to protein deficiency results in mood swings or depression.

8)  Loss of stamina or fatigue 

Protein intake facilitates the absorption of vital nutrients such as iron in our body. With a low nutrient intake body, stamina suffers adversely. A person feels fatigued quickly, another hidden sign of protein deficiency.

9)  Unexplained hunger 

The protein-rich diet reduces ghrelin levels, a hormone responsible for stimulating hunger. Thus protein deficiency can lead to increased sugar cravings and body weight gain.

What Are The Diseases Caused Due To The Deficiency of Protein?  

Two major diseases caused due to protein deficiency are-

1)  Kwashiorkor - Some common symptoms of kwashiorkor are :

Ø Edema

Ø Failure of growth

Ø Moon face

Ø Skin and hair changes

Ø Irritable behaviour

2)  Marasmus -  Some common symptoms of Marasmus are:

Ø Muscle wasting

Ø Failure to thrive

Ø Growth failure

Ø Different kind of infections

Both the diseases caused due to deficiency of protein intake is frequently detected among poor young children in developing nations.

How big is the problem of protein deficiency in India?

According to the recent studies conducted by IDA (Indian Dietetic Association), the protein consumption among Indians is deficient. Studies further elaborated that nearly 84% population in the country are protein deficient. Moreover, inferior health muscle is prevalent among 71% of Indians. The problem of protein deficiency is found in both urban and rural India.

How is Protein Deficiency Detected?

The deficiency of protein in the body can be easily detected through blood tests. Test to determine the level of protein in the blood is called the total protein test. By identifying the level of two proteins, namely, albumin and globulin in the blood, protein deficiency can be ascertained.

What Are The Causes of Protein Deficiency? 

There are different causes of protein deficiency in the body. Some of these causes are discussed below.

1) The poor dietary choice is one of the prime reasons for protein deficiency. A large section of Indians are vegetarians that augment the problem of protein deficiency.

2) Liver and kidney disorders are also responsible for protein deficiency in the body.

3) Lack of awareness among the general population regarding the requirement of an adequate protein intake quantity is another major factor for protein deficiency.

4) Celiac disease can also lead to protein deficiency.

5) Inflammatory bowel disease is another cause of deficiency of protein in the body.  

Summary 

Protein is an essential nutrient for a healthy human body. The proteins are required to perform various normal body functions; hence protein deficiency may result in health impairment. Therefore, it is advisable to consume sufficient protein quantity in our daily diet to remain healthy.

The Montreal Jazz Festival is a musical extravaganza that draws music lovers from every corner of the world. A total of 3,000 performers and musicians from over 30 nations entertain audiences in a variety of indoor and outdoor shows.

Montreal Jazz Festival  

Experience The Wonder Jazz

Have you heard about one of the most enigmatic music fests in the world? Yes, I am talking about the Montreal Jazz festival, the one with admirers around the world. If not, then do scroll down and read more about this fantastic event organized every year for music lovers.

 

Montréal International Jazz Festival organized in Quebec, Canada is one of the most sought-after musical events in the world today. For ten days music enthusiasts from across the globe converge in Montreal to witness and be part of, one of the most massive Jazz musical extravaganzas in the world. Yeah, you read it right, ten days of complete madness, isn’t it cool? The festival has flourished as a melting point of different styles of jazz music, much to the joy of the audience.

Part of history

Montreal Jazz festival inaugurated in 1980 with a limited audience and music bands have grown to become an annual pilgrimage for musicians and enthusiasts. Such is the craze that the audience, musicians, singers, technicians, organizers, wait in anticipation throughout the year to be part of the much-celebrated event on the calendar. You will be amazed to know that people plan their lives around the jazz festival.

The annual jazz festival has great significance for local Canadians who brave long harsh winters. The music event that falls during summer is a perfect excuse for Canadians to come out in large numbers and party. After all, who wouldn't like to have some fun after unforgiving, cruel winters?

 

Montreal Jazz Festival Line-up

Montreal jazz festival is the largest in terms of the crowd. Each year the music event is attended by more than 2 million people with a sizeable (12.5%) being tourists. The musical extravaganza also holds the Guinness World Record (2004) of being the most significant jazz event organized in any part of the world. If you don't believe it witnesses the event and comment :)

 

The performance of more than 3000 artists from different parts of the world adds to the diversity and popularity of the musical blowout. The concerts are organized in both outdoor and indoor venues. Throughout the ten days, around 650 shows, the majority of them free (about 450) enchants the audience.

 

It's all the climate Stupid.

One major contributing factor to the success of the Montréal jazz festival is the ideal climate during that part of the year. As the warm weather approaches Montreal city, it transforms into a gracious host, the ultimate destination for music lovers. It is the time of the year when thousands of musicians, enthusiasts groove to the rhythmic melodies of Jazz.

 

The city administration, on its part, enforces a significant shutdown of city traffic to facilitate the outdoor venues that organize concerts. The performances by artists typically begin at noon and continue till early morning. Approximately 100,000 to 200,000 people attend each site, and the number swells by weekends. There are live jazz performances held at small indoor venues for a limited audience.

 

The Jazz

Jazz music originated in Africa and traversed a long path to become part of the urban music scene in the Northern hemisphere. The rhythmic music was passed on from one generation to another before eventually taking the center-stage in western nations like Britain, Canada, and America. The penetration of the Jazz continued throughout the 1900s and gradually became popular among the general population.

 

As it transcended racial boundaries, its popularity breached geographical limits. The original tradition of swinging to beats, clapping, and performing songs to reflect human emotions is still the crowd puller. The soulful jazz music has evolved over some time with many new forms added much to the joy of the young generation.

 

At the Montréal Jazz festival, music fans can enjoy different genres and styles of Jazz in one place. Although the festival was conceptualized for jazz fans,  another type of music that is influenced by Jazz is additionally performed now. The variety of jazz forms, including Gypsy jazz, Bebop, Modal Jazz, Latin Jazz mesmerize the audience. Apart from it, music forms inspired by Jazz such as jazz fusion, hip-hop, electronica also enthralls the audience. The versatility ensures there is something available to match the musical tastes of every individual irrespective of age.

 

An Abundance of Talent- Local and Foreign

Montreal jazz festival also serves as an excellent podium for emerging local talent in Canada to showcase their skills. Competitions are organized amongst different Canadian music bands much to the delight of the audience. Awards to budding musicians is a token of appreciation and encourage them to work hard.

 

The rich diversity of the music festival is also due to the plethora of world-class jazz artists apart from the local talent. The music at the festival spans classic Jazz to chart hopping reggae. There are even roaming bands that perform on the pedestrian section for free. The music blended with fun and comradeship captivates the audience. I am loving it.

 

Its also about Money Honey.

Festivals are an inherent part of the jazz culture and are sprinkled in different parts of the world. These festivals embrace the local flavors and enrich the overall music scene. Moreover, these festivals also give a significant boost to the local economies.

 

According to organizers, the Montréal jazz festival contributes more than $100 million to the local economy. It is a perfect outing for the whole family to visit the venue. Besides music, people can indulge in a variety of food cuisines to satisfy their taste buds. Apart from different cuisines food trucks selling street food are also in high demand—the organizers at Montréal jazz festival boost of sales of food and beer worth millions every year. I want golgappas too :)0

Multiple benefits

Music festivals provide opportunities and are beneficial to host countries, and the Montréal jazz festival is no different. But the massive scale of opportunities created by the Montreal festival makes it unique. Apart from providing a platform to local evolving music talent, the festival has far-reaching economic benefits to add to its legacy. Don't we need such festivals in India too?

Finally

The Montréal jazz festival conceptualized by Alain Simard and André Ménard as a pure jazz venue has evolved in the last 40 years. Today, a broad spectrum of events such as seminars, music workshops, competitions for specific instruments organized in the ten-day festival for spectators, and music enthusiasts is an added attraction.

 

What makes the Montréal International jazz festival spectacular is, it has something special for everyone; a tiny piece of souvenir in the form of memories to cherish and take home and a promise to come back next season. It has emerged as a major tourist destination where the tourists flock in droves to witness an enchanting life-changing moment. Impressive indeed. 

Image Courtesy - Google

A cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that was generated employing encryption algorithms.

 Factors that Affect Cryptocurrency Prices 

What we all know about crypto?

Cryptocurrency, a type of digital currency operating on blockchain technology, was non-existent about a decade ago. Today, over 6,700 different types of cryptocurrencies are publicly traded demonstrating its popularity among investors and speculators alike.

But one intriguing issue is the fluctuation in cryptocurrency prices. With current (total) valuations of all digital currencies pegged at $645.7 billion, have you ever wondered what factors affect the cryptocurrency prices? Here, we discuss important factors that drive the cryptocurrency prices.

Now, the factors

v  Supply and Demand 

     One important factor affecting/influencing the prices of cryptocurrency is the supply-demand scenario. Increase in demand from end-users is what fuels the price value, higher the demand higher the prices and vice-versa.

v  Mining costs

     The cost of mining cryptocurrency influences its prices in the market. The cost of mining also includes the validation and the addition to the blockchain process. 

v  Legal issues

   There is no uniformity in regulating the cryptocurrencies around the world. Some countries are more receptive of the idea, while others have banned their use. The evolving rules and regulations to regulate digital currency impact cryptocurrency prices. 

v  Media analysis

   Sentiments drive the markets, and the media plays a pivotal role in creating market sentiment. Positive analysis, imparting knowledge on cryptocurrency and related news help in better understanding affecting the prices.

v  Financial volatility

    In case of any financial crisis, investors often flock to alternate places to park funds. One popular place to invest in the cryptocurrency market as the virtual market is insulated. The increase of participation results in fluctuation of prices of digital currency.

The final verdict

    Cryptocurrency is a speculative and risky asset to buy with multiple factors driving the prices. The volatility in the cryptocurrency prices is generally due to the above-mentioned factors, but other factors like manipulation by vested interests can not be ruled out. Cryptocurrency is not a uniformly recognized legal tender and hence needs caution to add to your portfolio. 

Images: Google images