UBCNews - Business

Consumer interest in shilajit has been growing, driving market growth that is expected to surpass $454.60 USD by 2034. This interest is fueled by the public’s hunger for natural health products, which in turn is prompting vendors to come up with new products to feed this demand, leading to merchandise with interesting monikers such as “black shilajit” and “gold shilajit” appearing on shelves. But what’s the difference between the two, and how are they used? NutroTonic examines what sets these products apart and what consumers should be on the lookout for.

Having been used as a natural remedy in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and other South Asian medical systems for centuries, shilajit has recently gained popularity in the west because of extensive research into its properties. It occurs naturally in mountainous regions when microbes break down plant matter over hundreds of years, forming a resin-like substance that scientists have found to be rich in fulvic acid, minerals, and antioxidants.

Traditionally, shilajit has been used to treat and prevent many conditions, and research is currently being conducted into its potential uses for neurodegenerative diseases, digestive health, musculoskeletal health, and other areas in medicine. An increasing number of healthy individuals are also incorporating shilajit into their daily routines, since the aforementioned studies have also highlighted the amount of nutrients it contains.

Of course, not all shilajit is made equal. According to NutroTonic’s guide, shilajit sourced from high altitudes is typically purer, as there is less contamination at these elevations; the cleanest sources are often found in the Himalayas at 17,000 feet above sea level.

While both black and gold shilajit can originate from such locations, the guide notes that the key difference between the two products, other than their color, is that black shilajit is less processed, sports higher fulvic acid content, and has no additional ingredients, while gold shilajit often contains Ayurvedic herbs such as ashwagandha and safed musli.

Although black shilajit is considered purer in natural composition than gold shilajit, NutroTonic’s guide says that overall product purity will depend on a combination of harvesting, processing, and lab testing. Ethically sourced and sustainably harvested shilajit that has been filtered extensively and processed via chemical-free methods will always be cleaner than other variants, regardless of whether it is black or gold.

In terms of uses, NutroTonic’s guide recommends black shilajit for those interested in improving general wellness and gold shilajit for individuals who prioritize fitness or often engage in physical activities that require stamina. But regardless of the choice, it is important for consumers to purchase their products from reputable suppliers who are transparent about production and lab testing, especially when considering the influx of counterfeits and lower-quality products from unscrupulous vendors. Conscientious research will guarantee that buyers are using a product that’s clean and safe.

NutroTonic is an expert on naturopathy, detoxification regimes, and sports nutrition. The company keeps itself informed on the latest research into shilajit and other natural health products, allowing them to provide health-conscious consumers with resources that can help guide their wellness routines.

Interested parties can learn more by visiting the link in the description.

Are you a business owner who kept employees during the pandemic? You might be eligible for Employee Retention Tax Credits worth up to $21,000 per employee. ERTC Express helps businesses like yours claim these valuable tax credits before the April 15, 2025 deadline.

Many business owners think they don't qualify, but the rules might surprise you. You can still qualify even if your revenue increased during certain periods, you received PPP loans, or your business never fully closed. These misconceptions prevent many eligible businesses from claiming the money they deserve.

ERTC Express uses licensed American CPAs to help you get the maximum refund possible. Their unique "Power of Three" verification process ensures your claim meets all IRS requirements. Three separate CPA teams review each submission, making your claim as accurate and secure as possible. This careful approach leads to refunds that average 40-120% higher than those prepared by large payroll companies.

The clock is ticking on these claims. The IRS lifted its processing moratorium on August 8, 2024, giving businesses until April 15, 2025, to file amended returns for qualifying quarters in 2021 - once the deadline passes, these funds are gone for good.

ERTC Express makes the process simple. You pay no upfront fees, and they handle everything from qualification to final payment. Their service includes audit defense with a "Sleep Well Guarantee," giving you peace of mind that your claim is properly documented. You'll work with real people instead of automated systems throughout the process.

One transportation company client shared their experience: "Our company qualified for over $500k in total ERTC credits. ERTC Express went the extra mile for us - patiently answering our questions. I really appreciate our account manager, Lehman, who guided us through each step of the process."

ERTC Express serves businesses of all sizes across the country with offices in New York, Tampa, Nashville, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. They even help startups that began after February 15, 2020!

The process starts with a simple qualification assessment and takes you about 15 minutes to complete.

Don't wait until it's too late. Click on the link in the description to learn more.

Have you ever wondered what makes the perfect gag gift? You know, those hilarious presents that get everyone laughing at parties?

There’s holiday rentals and then there’s holiday rentals from Casago Myrtle Beach. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views from private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and room enough for parties of 8, all just a stone’s throw from the ocean and lots of great amenities and attractions.

You’ll love this spacious, comfortable, and stylish penthouse condo with panoramic views of Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand. The abode is situated on the 15th floor of Tower 1 and offers approximately 1,760 square feet of living space with high ceilings and three private balconies.

Featuring three bedrooms and capable of comfortably hosting eight people, the condo is ideal if you’re travelling with a large family or group. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom to ensure comfort and privacy for all of you.

Bedroom One contains a queen-size bed, dresser, closet, and a ceiling fan. The ornately tiled en-suite bathroom provides a vanity unit, bath tub with shower, toilet, and closet space. You can also enjoy the rear-facing private balcony from this bedroom with beautiful views of the city that stretch for miles.

Bedroom Two is similarly appealing and features two queen-sized beds and an en-suite bathroom with a dedicated shower cubicle.

Bedroom Three is situated on the ocean side of the property. This spacious room comes with a private balcony with views of coastline. A king-sized bed ensures you have plenty of space for a good night’s rest after a long day exploring the area. The private bathroom’s large skylight provides plenty of natural light as well as a double sink, a walk-in shower, vanity, oversized mirror, and toilet.

All bed linens and towels are included in the price and you’ll get basic starter toiletries such as toilet paper, paper towels, and soap too!

The local area is full of fun and exciting attractions. How about Alligator Adventure, Duplin Winery, House of Blues, Top Golf, or the Myrtle Beach Skywheel? All of these are only a few miles from the resort which sits on the northern tip of Myrtle Beach.

The beach, shopping outlets, and popular restaurants and cafes are also just a few minutes walk from the accommodation. What more could you want?

If you enjoy cooking and entertaining, you’ll love the open plan kitchen space which features butcher block countertops, stainless steel appliances, and convenient cabinets for food storage and easy meal preparation.

For cosy nights in, the condo has a host of in-house facilities. A spokesperson says, “With accessibility features and four TVs for entertainment, including a 70" Smart TV, this modern unit caters to guests of all needs and preferences. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this penthouse condo promises a truly unforgettable experience.”

You can make a booking via the Casago website or by calling 843-999-2837.

Don’t miss the early bird discount - Book your beachside getaway now!

Click the link in the description for more details.

Constant bloating, cramping, or heartburn weighing you down? If you’re tired of masking the symptoms with endless pills and prescription drugs, Dr Rebecca Ford of Integrative Medicine Care of Texas (IMCT) can help you find lasting relief from your chronic gut problems using functional medicine.

Most people don’t realize how much their gut health affects their well-being. Did you know 70% of your immune system resides in your gut? And the majority of neurotransmitters responsible for your mood and focus are produced there, too! When your digestive system is out of balance, it doesn’t just affect your stomach—it impacts your energy, immunity, and even mental health.

Unlike traditional approaches that rely on medications to suppress symptoms, functional medicine works to uncover the why behind your discomfort.

Whether it's GERD, IBS, acid reflux, or food sensitivities, Dr. Ford combines advanced diagnostic testing and evidence-based techniques to tackle the root cause of your problem and restore gut balance.

During your initial consultation, Dr Ford reviews your health history, which may include tests to identify food triggers, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental factors affecting gut health.

Based on the results, she will create a custom care plan that may include dietary changes, stress management, and targeted probiotic therapies – all aimed at helping your body heal naturally.

IMCT also offers additional wellness options such as:

10-Day Detox Cleanses to kickstart your health

DIY Testing Packages so you can identify the type of foods you're sensitive to and any nutrient imbalances right from the comfort of your home

One-on-one consultations with Dr. Ford for personalized support.

One happy client shared, “I was miserable from terrible gas, bloating, and constipation. I could go 8-10 days without a bowel movement. Within a week of working with Dr. Ford, I was going to the bathroom every day, and my gas and bloating were gone.”

At Integrative Medicine Care of Texas, the focus is on you - no rushed appointments, no one-size-fits-all solutions - everything is designed to help you feel your best.

Take control of your digestive health with functional medicine services. Visit the website in the description or call 210-524-7745 to schedule your consultation.

Creating just one type of content can be a time-consuming process for small businesses, so you might feel that multichannel marketing is well beyond your reach. Not so, because Miami-based Jet Write Media can do all the heavy lifting for you with their unique multichannel content marketing solution.

According to the Small Business Administration, Florida has the third-highest number of small companies in the US, at 3.1 million, making them a critical part of the state’s economy. However, the small business community faces several challenges, including how to market themselves in an increasingly digital world.

Jet Write Media’s multichannel content service is an effective and efficient way of boosting your online visibility, while also enhancing your business’ reputation. The agency publishes original pieces on hundreds of trusted websites, including Business Insider, Medium, Bezinga, and Google News, giving your digital profile a massive boost.

Recognizing that most smaller businesses lack the expertise or time to create content at scale, Jet Write Media created a solution that does almost everything for you. The team conducts research into your business and its target audience, using this information to prepare high-quality campaigns that address the pain points of potential clients.

“Content marketing can be an extremely powerful tool, but to do so, it needs to be easy to find for the people who are interested in your services,” a company representative explained. “To achieve this, our Organic Traffic Team develops high-quality original content that we publish on over 300 high-authority platforms, creating a level of visibility that even Google can’t ignore.”

As mentioned, scalability was another key goal of Jet Write Media’s multichannel content solution. To that end, the agency works with clients to develop a rolling content plan that allows for new releases on a monthly, weekly, or daily basis.

“These professional content campaigns have transformed our business,” one client recently stated. “We’re getting a lot of new traffic through keyword searches on Google, and the influx of new leads has helped us double our annual revenue.”

Check out the description to learn more!

How often do you book repairs for your home’s roof? You might be surprised to learn that it shouldn’t be a common request, and it doesn’t need to be. With the right material, your oft-damaged roof will better withstand the elements - and that’s the truth. Galveston County Roofing can inspect your roof and help you choose the best replacement… putting repairs in the past.

These Galveston County locals are here to renovate your roof, targeting long-term resilience. Booking a replacement is often the best course of action if your roof has suffered significant wear and tear - that’s where these contractors come in.

Galveston County’s climate isn’t kind to roofs. It’s not unusual to see residential and commercial roofs in need of professional attention in Galveston County. It all comes down to the heat, high humidity and harsh winds we see on the coast. Your roof needs to be designed and constructed with these considerations in mind.

If not, don’t be surprised to see it deteriorate to such an extent that it needs work - and quickly! Weighing up the pros and cons of repairs versus replacements? Don’t be deterred by the higher initial installation cost - a full replacement will ultimately prove more cost-effective, so long as you opt for the right materials…

Here are the best roofs for League City’s climate, according to Galveston County Roofing: Metal, Asphalt, Synthetic slate, and Concrete or clay tile.

These roofs are varyingly suited to withstanding the local heat and windy conditions - not to mention the moisture found in the coastal air!

Finding a good replacement material will help you secure the long-term health of your roof. After all, a more resilient system will hold up over the long run without the need for multiple repairs as the years go by.

Galveston County Roofing is ready to help you kickstart your replacement project following an on-site inspection. Here’s what its pros have to say!

“The best choice depends on your budget, home style, and specific location within the county. Consult our local roofing professionals to determine the most suitable option for your property.”

And that’s not all - a roofing assessment will also enable Galveston County Roofing to survey your damaged roof in advance of insurance claims. Trust its expert contractors to record evidence and issue reports that support your insurance submissions. Recovering the reimbursement you’re owed for repairs or replacement work following severe storms is now easier than ever.

Get your free quote at the link in the description!

Your driveway is one of the first things people notice about your home, and keeping it well-maintained can make a big difference in curb appeal. Whether you're dealing with stains, cracks, or just everyday wear and tear, Woodlands Decorative Concrete has put together a helpful guide to make sure your driveway stays in top shape.

Concrete is tough and built to last, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely maintenance-free. Without proper care, your driveway can start to crack, stain, or deteriorate over time. Regular maintenance not only keeps it looking great but also helps prevent costly repairs down the road.

One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your concrete driveway is regular cleaning. Dirt, oil stains, and debris can build up, leading to discoloration and even damage if left unchecked. The professionals at Woodlands Decorative Concrete recommend using neutral pH cleaners and environmentally safe solutions to keep your driveway fresh without causing harm to the concrete.

Applying a sealant is another essential step in concrete care. A good sealant helps protect against moisture, extreme weather, and de-icing agents that can wear down the surface. The guide provides expert advice on choosing the right sealant and how often to reapply it to keep your driveway strong and durable.

We’ve all seen those annoying grease spots, rust stains, and tire marks that seem impossible to remove. The good news is that there are effective cleaning solutions—many of which you might already have at home! The guide shares practical stain removal tips using specialized cleaners as well as everyday household products.

The Texas heat can take a toll on your driveway, especially in summer. The guide includes recommendations on adjusting your maintenance routine to handle seasonal cycles and protect against cracking in extreme weather conditions.

If your driveway needs sealing, resurfacing, or repair, Woodlands Decorative Concrete offers professional services to keep your concrete in great shape. Whether you need minor touch-ups or a full restoration, their team is ready to help.

For more tips and access to the full guide, visit Woodlands Decorative Concrete at the link in the description and keep your driveway looking its best for years to come.

As part of a new multichannel marketing service, Media Ads Online can feature your small business on some of the world’s leading news sites, like Medium, Business Insider, and AP. In fact, they publish a combination of news articles, blogs, videos, podcasts, and slideshows on 300+ famous platforms, and almost everything is done for you.

A recent report from Australia’s National Retail Association highlights some of the challenges small businesses face in the digital marketing space. The study found that only 11% of small businesses fully embrace digital marketing strategies, with 64% lacking an awareness of SEO, and 75% not having the time or resources to engage with clients via social media or other channels.

With the new multichannel service, Media Ads Online offers an affordable done-for-you capability that allows you to begin leveraging content at scale. The team carries out in-depth research before preparing your campaign, meaning that you don’t need any marketing expertise or investment of time to start using the service.

“We craft original content that reflects the search intent of your target audience, and then repurpose it across several formats to reach people wherever they might be looking,” a company representative explained.

Media Ads Online points out that content marketing is a long-term technique, requiring frequent ongoing efforts to have the best outcomes. To that end, the new solution is designed with scalability in mind, allowing you to ability to create ongoing monthly, weekly, or even daily content releases. To begin with, they’ll work with you to develop an in-depth content plan, detailing the locations and services you want to target with each new release.

“These content campaigns have catapulted our physiotherapy business to new heights. We’ve gone from one bed at half capacity to three beds that are almost fully booked, and we’ve taken on two additional therapists to meet the demand. Best of all, the team takes care of almost everything for us,” one client recently stated.

Check out the description to learn more!

A prostate cancer diagnosis can be life-changing—not just for you, but for your loved ones as well. Whether you’ve recently received your diagnosis, are undergoing treatment, or are supporting someone through their journey, you don’t have to go through it alone.

That’s where PROSTAID Calgary comes in. For over 30 years, this dedicated community has been offering support, resources, and a safe space for men facing prostate cancer and the people who care about them.

Did you know? According to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1 in 8 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. It’s a reality that affects countless families, yet many men and their loved ones struggle to find the right information and support.

That’s why PROSTAID Calgary hosts monthly support meetings, free of charge, to help men navigate their diagnosis, explore treatment options, and connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.

These meetings aren’t just about sitting and listening—they’re a chance to hear from top medical professionals, researchers, and survivors who share the latest information on treatment advancements, early detection, and life after cancer. Recent topics have included:

The latest breakthroughs in prostate cancer treatment

Cancer doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it also impacts family, friends, and caregivers. That’s why PROSTAID Calgary offers specialized groups beyond its general meetings:

The Warriors Group – A space for those managing advanced prostate cancer, where you can connect with others facing similar challenges.

If you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just need someone who understands, these groups are here to help.

PROSTAID Calgary is more than just a monthly gathering—it’s a community that provides ongoing resources to keep you informed and supported.

Stay in the loop with The Digital Examiner, a monthly journal with news, research updates, and personal stories, currently reaching over 1,300 subscribers.

Check out the next meeting, join a support group, or browse valuable resources at the link in the description. Your journey matters, and you deserve a place where you feel seen, heard, and supported.