Silver and Gold Magazine Fall 2017 | Page 22

silvergoldmagazine.ca WELL-BEING Quiet Sound Amplifier: For part-time hearing needs A ffording temporary hearing devices for a low cost and high fidelity sound, has become easier thanks to a new device called the ‘BEAN’. As a personal amplification device, also known as a Quiet Sound Amplifier, The BEAN features a built-in sensor that automatically adjusts to the surrounding noise level. It amplifies soft sounds, while keeping the volume steady on louder noises or even reducing it for extremely loud sounds such as fireworks or the strike of a drum. Moreover, the BEAN boosts soft high-pitched sounds heard in speech, which helps provide clarity for conversations, particularly in less-than-ideal listening environments. The BEAN amplifies sounds and enhances your hearing experience so your conversations become more effective in the car, in social situations, and at a distance. Testing by Silver and Gold* concluded the BEAN operates smoothly, it’s comfortable to wear, and we most enjoyed its affordability at just over $500 for the pair. A single device may also be ordered for about half of that cost. The Starter Kit which the BEAN is delivered in, comes complete with 7 ear tips of different sizes for best fit and comfort, so it can be used right out of the box, without any controls to adjust and without the requirement of a doctor referral. The BEAN is ideal for the person who wants amplification for some listening situations but is not ready to wear devices on a full time basis. Available for purchase through Amazon.ca or by calling The Gramophone in Alberta, at: 1-780-428-2356 • CANDIDA: C andida, or “candida albicans”, is a fungus or yeast that is a normal part of your gut flora: a group of microorganisms that live in your digestive tract. Candida will usually coexist peacefully with the other healthy bacteria and yeasts that live there, however a variety of factors can lead to the population of candida albicans to grow and get out of control. This is when a whole slew of issues can begin to occur, and DO YOU HAVE CANDIDA? If you checked off 5 or more of the answers below, Candida may be affecting your health. Performing a Candida cleanse would be recommended. LIFESTYLE FACTORS: Have you ever taken antibiotics? Do y