xixi

Author: blogs2025

  • How to Earn Airline Miles and Hotel Points without a Credit Card

    How to Earn Airline Miles and Hotel Points without a Credit Card


    This is how the travel hacking world works in a nutshell:

    1. Get a credit card with a huge welcome bonus
    2. Scour reward ticket calendars for amazing deals, which are often last minute
    3. Take advatange of transfer bonuses to get extra points

    And the hard part of all this, beyond the spending, is that it requires a lot of work.

    Or you pay for a service to help you find it.

    And while 90% of the benefits can be captured doing those three steps, there are still a lot of different ways you can earn points and miles without a credit card.

    If you don’t have time to read it all, here are the top three:

    1. Make sure you’re shopping through a shopping portal to maximize your miles and points
    2. Join the dining programs so you earn points for restaurant visits
    3. Sign up to their emails so you learn about new promotions

    Here are the rest:

    Table of Contents
    1. If You Rent, Use Bilt
    2. Use Shopping Portals
    3. Car Rentals
    4. Sign Up For Emails
    5. Rocketmiles
    6. Dining Programs
    7. Survey Groups
    8. Utilities
    9. Magazine Subscriptions

    If You Rent, Use Bilt

    The Bilt Mastercard is a card that gives you points when you spend it on rent, up to 100,000 points a year. You will earn 1 point for each $1 spent on rent and it’s the only credit card that lets you do this and it has no annual fee. If you rent and aren’t using this card, you’re leaving points on the table.

    You can transfer your Bilt points to a variety of other loyalty programs and sometimes there are even transfer bonuses. Our Bilt review discusses this program in much greater detail.

    👉 Learn more about Bilt

    Shopping portals are websites that you visit first to ensure you earn miles and points for your purchase. If you’ve ever used cashback shopping portals, like Rakuten/eBates or Topcashback, you’re familiar with these websites. You click through to your intended website from a portal and get a small percentage back as cash.

    With travel shopping portals, you don’t get cash back but points and miles.

    Just search for “[loyalty program] shopping portal” and you’ll probably find it. The exception to this are hotels, it doesn’t appear many hotel loyalty programs have a shopping portal.

    Car Rentals

    The major car rental companies have partnerships with airlines and can earn miles and points if you enter in a loyalty reward number when renting.

    For example, Avis has a partnership with United MileagePlus in which you earn miles based on the rental and your membership level:

    • General members can earn 500 base miles per rental.
    • Chase card members can earn 750 base miles per rental.
    • Premier® Silver and Premier Gold members can earn 1,000 base miles per rental.
    • Premier Platinum and Premier 1K® members earn 1,250 base miles per rental.

    Sign Up For Emails

    From time to time, loyalty programs will offer limited time offers which may include free points. They might offer a few hundred points for downloading an app or referring a friend, they only notify folks on social media (which is unreliable) or email, which you have to be subscribed to receive. Make sure you’re subscribed!

    Rocketmiles

    If you’re booking a hotel, consider using Rocketmiles as it’ll help you earn rewards from a variety of partnerships including airlines as well as Amazon and Amtrak. They have partnerships with more than 40 programs.

    Dining Programs

    Several loyalty programs are looking to make their way into the OpenTable and Resy business by creating dining programs in which you can earn points for making and keeping reservations.

    Many are operated by the Rewards Network and similarly structured.

    These include bonus miles for signing up to the program too:

    Hotels offer this as well:

    Survey Groups

    There are some survey groups that pay in miles, which is not exactly an “easy” way to earn miles but one that available to some folks regardless.

    Miles for Opinions is a survey company that pays you in American Airlines AAdvantage Miles. You get 250 bonus miles for completing your first survey.

    e-Rewards is another survey company that pays in “points” but you can redeem those points for points and miles at a variety of loyalty programs.

    Utilities

    Did you know that you can earn rewards for various loyalty programs if you select a utility provider through an airline or hotel partnership? You usually get a sign up bonus after two months of service plus points based on spending.

    For example, if you live in IL, MA, MD, NJ, or PA and can select an electric supplier, you can earn bonus points from Southwest by selecting this deal with NRG Home. You will earn 10,000 Rapid Rewards points after two months of service plus 2 points for ever $1 spent on the supply portion of your bill. You will have to compare the rates to know if you’re coming out ahead but this is an option.

    If you live in CT, MD, NJ, NY, or Ohio and are contemplating going with Energy Plus, you could take this deal and get American Airlines AAdvantage miles. You get 10,000 AAdvantage miles after the second month and you also earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on the supply portion of your bill.

    Magazine Subscriptions

    If you’re paying a magazine directly for a subscription, you’re probably 1. overpaying and 2. not getting your just rewards.

    Within each of the shopping portals, there are partnerships with magazine sellers like Magazines.com and DiscountMags.com. In each case, you can not only earn miles and points for your spending but there are special discount too.

    Making that transition will likely save you money and earn you a few points and miles.

  • 5 Breathing Techniques To Help Asthma Sufferers This Spring

    5 Breathing Techniques To Help Asthma Sufferers This Spring


    Spring is here, but amid the colorfully blooming flowers and lush plant growth lurk triggers of pollen, mold and temperature changes. It’s difficult to enjoy the pleasures of spring when your asthma makes you feel like you have an elephant sitting on your chest. Here are five medication-free techniques to help you breathe easier this season.

    Understanding Asthma

    Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation around the lungs and airways. In America, over 24 million people live with asthma. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pains, wheezing and cough attacks. Some asthma triggers include food, allergies, the common cold, medication side effects, pollution, physical activity and stress.

    While there’s no cure for asthma, you can create an asthma management plan that includes breathing exercises to prevent flare-ups.

    1. Pursed-Lip Breathing 

    This method works for shortness of breath because the exercise gives you more air, making it easier to breathe comfortably.

    How to Do It

    Relax your body and inhale through your nose for two seconds, but keep your mouth closed — these can be normal breaths. Purse your lips like you’re about to whistle and exhale through your mouth for four seconds. Your exhales should be longer than your inhales.

    2. Diaphragmatic Breathing

    Training your diaphragm muscles can significantly improve your breathing.

    How to Do It

    • Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
    • Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
    • Breathe in through your nose, feeling your belly rise.
    • Using the pursed-lip method, breathe out through your mouth.

    3. Buteyko Breathing 

    Stress and anxiety can trigger asthma attacks, often leading to hyperventilation. While practicing medicine in Moscow, Dr. Konstantin Buteyko studied the connection between breathing and health. His techniques emphasize controlled breathing to manage anxiety and prevent asthma symptoms. Focusing on your breath reduces the risk of triggering an attack.

    How to Do It

    Sit upright on the floor and take a few normal breaths while relaxing your body. Exhale and hold your nose until you need to breathe again, then inhale. You should then breathe normally for 10 seconds before attempting the exercise again. This method should strengthen your diaphragm.

    4. Papworth Method

    More than 65% of children have allergies, and research indicates that allergy-prone people are more likely to develop asthma than their peers. Shortness of breath can be frightening for children, making early awareness and management crucial. The Papworth method combines breathing and relaxation to manage triggers.

    How to Do It

    Breathe in through your nose, letting the breath fill your lungs. Exhale through pursed lips or a relaxed mouth. Lastly, coordinate your breathing with relaxation and moderate movements.

    5. Box Breathing

    Also known as square breathing, box breathing relies on deep breaths to help you slow down your breathing.

    How to Do It

    Start by taking deep breaths. Place your hand on your stomach and feel it rise — that’s how you’ll know you’re doing it correctly. After breathing for about a minute, begin your box breathing exercise by inhaling while slowly counting to four. Hold your breath for a slow count of four, then exhale through your mouth for another four seconds. Wait four seconds before your next attempt.

    These Techniques Will Help Your Breathing

    Breathing techniques don’t replace your inhaler or medication, but learning control with breathwork is a natural stress and anxiety reducer. Practice these exercises daily, and speak to your doctor if a method seems strenuous. Breathe deep and stay calm so you can bloom with the flowers.



  • Triple-I Blog | L.A. Homeowners’ Suits Misread California’s Insurance Troubles

    Triple-I Blog | L.A. Homeowners’ Suits Misread California’s Insurance Troubles


    Triple-I Blog | L.A. Homeowners’ Suits Misread California’s Insurance Troubles

    By Lewis Nibbelin, Contributing Writer, Triple-I

    Two lawsuits filed in Los Angeles claim major California insurers colluded illegally to impede coverage in wildfire-prone areas, forcing homeowners into the state’s last-resort FAIR Plan.  Accusing carriers of violating antitrust and unfair competition laws, the two suits exemplify an ongoing disconnect between public and insurer perceptions of insurance market dynamics, exacerbated by legislators’ resistance to accommodating the state’s evolving risk profile.

    An untenable situation

    Both suits claim the insurers conspired to “suddenly and simultaneously” drop existing policies and cease writing new ones in high-risk communities, deliberately pushing consumers into the FAIR Plan. Left underinsured by the FAIR Plan, the plaintiffs argue they were wrongfully denied “coverage that they were ready, willing, and able to purchase to ensure that they could recover after a disaster,” Michael J. Bidart, who represents homeowners in one of the cases, said in a statement.

    Established in response to the 1965 Watts Rebellion, the California FAIR Plan provides an insurance option for homeowners unable to purchase from the traditional market. Though FAIR Plans offer less coverage for a higher premium, they cover properties where insurance protection would otherwise not exist. California law requires licensed property insurers to contribute to the FAIR Plan insurance pool to conduct any business within the state, meaning they share the risks associated with those properties.

    Intended as a temporary solution until homeowners can secure policies elsewhere, the FAIR Plan has become overwhelmed in recent years as more insurers pull back from the market. As of December 2024, the FAIR plan’s exposure was $529 billion – a 15 percent increase since September 2024 (the prior fiscal year end) and a 217 percent increase since fiscal year end 2021. In 2025, that exposure will increase further as FAIR begins offering higher commercial coverage for farmers, homebuilders, and other business owners.

    With a policyholder count that has more than doubled since 2020, the FAIR Plan faces an estimated $4 billion total loss from the January fires alone.

    Out of touch regulations

    Homeowners are understandably frustrated with dwindling coverage availability, which currently afflicts many other disaster-prone states. Supply-chain and inflationary pressures, which could intensify under oncoming U.S. tariff policies, help fuel the crisis. But California’s problems stem largely from an antiquated regulatory measure that severely constrains insurers’ ability to manage and price risk effectively.

    Despite a global rise in natural catastrophe frequency and severity, regulators have applied the 1988 measure, Proposition 103, in ways that bar insurers from using advanced modeling technologies to price prospectively, requiring them to price based only on historical data. It also blocks insurers from incorporating reinsurance costs into their prices, forcing them to pay for these costs from policyholder surplus and/or reduce their presence in the state.

    Insurers must adjust their risk appetite to reflect these constraints, as they cannot profitably underwrite otherwise. Underwriting profitability is essential to maintain policyholder surplus. Regulators require insurers to maintain policyholder surplus at levels that ensure that every policyholder is adequately protected.

    Restricting insurers’ use of prospective data, however, inhibits risk-based pricing and weakens policyholder surplus, facilitating policy nonrenewals and, in serious cases, insolvencies.

    Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara implemented a Sustainable Insurance Strategy to mitigate these trends, including a new measure that authorizes insurers to use catastrophe modeling if they agree to offer coverage in wildfire-prone areas. The strategy has garnered criticism from legislators and consumer groups, one of whom is suing Lara and the California Department of Insurance over a 2024 policy aimed at expediting insurance market recovery after an extreme disaster.

    “Insurers are committed to helping Californians recover and rebuild from the devastating Southern California wildfires,” Denni Ritter, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association’s department vice president for state government relations, said in a statement about the suit. “Insurers have already paid tens of billions in claims and contributed more than $500 million to support the FAIR Plan’s solvency – even though they do not collect premiums from FAIR Plan policyholders.”

    A call for collective action

    Litigation prolongs – it does not alleviate – California’s risk crisis. Government has a crucial role to play in addressing it, from adopting smarter land-use planning regulations to investing in long-term resilience solutions.

    For instance, Dixon Trail, a San Diego County subdivision dubbed the country’s first “wildfire resilient neighborhood,” models the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) standards for wildfire preparedness, but not at a cost attainable to most communities, and few local governments incentivize them. Launched by state legislature in 2019, the California Wildfire Mitigation Program is on track to retrofit some 2,000 houses along these guidelines, with the goal of solving how to fortify homes more quickly and inexpensively. Funded primarily by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grant program, the pilot has thus far avoided the same cuts befalling FEMA’s sister programs under the Trump Administration.

    Regardless of what legislators do, California homeowners’ insurance premiums will need to rise. The state’s current home and auto rates are below average as a percentage of median household income, reflecting a combination of the increased climate risk and of the regulatory limitations preventing insurers from setting actuarially sound rates. Insurance availability will not improve if these rates persist.

    To quote Gabriel Sanchez, spokesperson for the state’s Department of Insurance: “Californians deserve a system that works – one where decisions are made openly, rates reflect real risk, and no one is left without options.” Insurers do not wield absolute control over that system, and neither do legislators, regulators, consumer advocates, or any other singular group. Confronting the root causes of these issues – i.e., the risks – rather than the symptoms is the only path towards systemic change.

    Learn More:

    Despite Progress, California Insurance Market Faces Headwinds

    California Insurance Market at a Critical Juncture

    California Finalizes Updated Modeling Rules, Clarifies Applicability Beyond Wildfire

    How Proposition 103 Worsens Risk Crisis In California

    Tariff Uncertainty May Strain Insurance Markets, Challenge Affordability

    Issues Brief: California Struggles to Fix Insurance Challenges (Members only)

    Issues Brief: Wildfire: Resilience Collaboration & Investment Needed (Members only)

  • eSIM for International Travel Mobile Data Roaming

    eSIM for International Travel Mobile Data Roaming


    One thing that unites the world is the mobile phone. When you travel internationally, everywhere you go, people have their phones. Most hotels and many restaurants have Wi-Fi. Still, it’s much easier if you have mobile data when you’re out and about. You can call an Uber, look for restaurants nearby, or find walking directions to attractions or public transit stations.

    U.S. Carriers Are Expensive

    Mobile data is expensive in the U.S. According to a website, the United States ranked #219 among 237 countries in the world for the cost of mobile data (from the least expensive to the most expensive). Some say it’s primarily due to limited competition, high infrastructure costs, and a poor market structure.

    As expensive as it is in the U.S., the U.S. carriers charge multiple times more when you travel outside the country. Some plans charge as much as $10 per day. If you’re out 30 days, that would be $300. And that’s only if you buy the international travel pass before you travel. If you use international roaming without pre-arrangement, your mobile data bill could be enormous. A plan I used to use charges $100 to $150 per GB of mobile data in some countries. If you use 4 GB of mobile data, that would be $400 to $600.

    A reasonable cost should be more like $10 — not $10 per day — $10 for the whole trip.

    Buy a Local SIM Card

    A way to avoid the exorbitant charges from your U.S. carrier is to buy a SIM card locally after you arrive in the foreign country. You find a shop at the airport or on the street to buy a SIM card that covers the length of your stay. You put it into your phone but you have to carefully save your existing SIM card. You’ll need it again when you come back to the U.S.

    I did this when I traveled to New Zealand in 2016. I bought a SIM card at a store for $5 that covered a whole month.

    This works, but it isn’t always easy to find a store that sells SIM cards to international travelers. You may have a language barrier. You have to take precious time out of your vacation to do it. If you lose the tiny SIM card from the U.S., you’ll have to spend time again to replace it after you return.

    eSIM

    Technology advances since 2016 gave us eSIMs. An eSIM is an electronic equivalent of the tiny physical SIM card. iPhones sold in the U.S. only use eSIMs after iPhone 14 was released in 2022. Other phones released in recent years that still support physical SIM cards also work with eSIMs.

    eSIMs don’t have the limitations of physical card trays and card reading contacts. A phone can simultaneously hold two or more eSIMs or one physical SIM plus another eSIM. You can toggle between two SIMs without worrying about losing one.

    It also made it much easier to buy a SIM for international travel. You don’t have to find that local store in a foreign country. You can shop online for a wide selection and the best price before you leave.

    Chances are that your current phone already supports eSIMs. If you’re not sure, Google your phone’s model plus the word “eSIM” or ask AI.

    I use the website esimdb.com when I buy an eSIM. It’s like a search engine for online eSIM vendors. It gets paid a commission by the vendors. I’m not affiliated with it. I use it only because it includes a wide selection.

    You search by which country you’re traveling to, for how many days, and how much data you need. Some eSIMs cover multiple countries. If you’re going to several countries in a region, get an eSIM that covers all your destinations.

    esimdb.com filters
    esimdb.com filters

    For my typical usage while traveling, 1 GB per week is plenty when hotels have Wi-Fi and I pre-download offline maps. I’m going to Quebec, Canada, for a week. esimdb.com shows multiple vendors that sell a 1 GB eSIM for about $2.

    Many eSIMs support top-ups. If you need more data than the amount you originally bought, you can go back to the eSIM vendor and pay more to add more data to your eSIM. eSIMs are quite inexpensive anyway. A 1 GB eSIM for Canada costs about $2. A 2 GB eSIM costs about $4. If I don’t want the hassle of possibly running out, paying $4 versus $2 is a rounding error in travel costs.

    I look for eSIM vendors that accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal because I don’t want to give them my credit card number directly. If a vendor doesn’t accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal, I move on to the next one.

    It doesn’t matter if you’ve never heard of the vendors listed on esimdb. I have bought eSIMs from several different vendors for different countries, and the eSIMs all worked as advertised.

    You get a QR code by email after you buy the eSIM. You add the eSIM to your phone by scanning the QR code with your phone. Adding a new eSIM doesn’t overwrite your existing SIM. You can switch on and off which SIM should be active. Switch off your U.S. line after you board the plane to avoid international roaming charges.

    You can add the eSIM before you leave the U.S., but it will drain your battery a little more when the eSIM keeps looking for its carrier and doesn’t find it. If you decide to add the eSIM when you first land in the foreign country, you must be on Wi-Fi when you add it. You also need to display the QR code on a second device, such as a tablet, to scan it, or you can print the QR code on paper and take it with you.

    The inexpensive eSIMs are usually data-only eSIMs. You don’t get a local number for calls and texts, but that’s OK. You can use Wi-Fi calling and messaging apps, such as iMessage or WhatsApp. The eSIM uses a local carrier but it doesn’t necessarily come from a carrier in that country. The eSIM I bought for Spain was assigned a number from Austria. The data roaming setting must be enabled for it to work.

    Unlocked Phone

    Whether you buy a local physical SIM or eSIM, you need an unlocked phone. A phone locked to a specific carrier doesn’t work with a SIM from a different carrier. If you bought your phone directly from the manufacturer, it’s probably unlocked from day one. Your phone may be locked if you bought it from your carrier at a discounted price or if it’s still on a device payment plan with the phone company.

    You can check whether your phone is unlocked if you’re not sure. On an iPhone, it’s under Settings -> General -> About -> Carrier Lock. The menu option for Android phones varies by model. Google the phone’s model and the phrase “carrier unlock status” or ask AI how to find it.

    Some phones are still locked after you already satisfied the requirements from your carrier. You can call the carrier and request unlocking. If your current phone is still locked and you can’t unlock it, you may have an older phone that’s unlocked. Put the eSIM on that one and use it for international travel.

    Summary

    You’ll have mobile data for your phone for usually under $10 for your entire trip if you do these:

    1. Check whether your phone supports eSIM. Most recent phones do.

    2. Check whether your phone is unlocked. It probably is. Request unlocking from your carrier if it’s locked.

    3. Buy an eSIM online for your destination(s) before you leave.

    4. Add the eSIM to your phone and switch off your U.S. line at the airport. Remember to enable the data roaming setting for the eSIM.

    5. Switch your U.S. line back on after you return and delete the travel eSIM.

    Say No To Management Fees

    If you are paying an advisor a percentage of your assets, you are paying 5-10x too much. Learn how to find an independent advisor, pay for advice, and only the advice.

    Find Advice-Only

  • Do Probiotics Help You Lose Weight? Find Out Now

    Do Probiotics Help You Lose Weight? Find Out Now


    Gut health is more than just a wellness buzzword. Over the past few years, probiotics (those friendly live bacteria) have gone from obscure supplements to daily essentials for many people. While we now know they support digestion, immunity, and skin health, one question continues to dominate the conversation: Do probiotics help you lose weight?

    The short answer is, they can. But not in the way some marketing claims would have you believe. Instead of acting like a magic pill, probiotics impact weight indirectly through gut health, metabolism, appetite regulation, and more. This article aims to clear the confusion surrounding probiotics for weight loss, debunk myths, and help you make informed decisions. It will clear the air whether you are wondering which supplement to take or just exploring what works best for your body.

    With so many probiotic supplements and “gut-healthy” foods on the market, it can be hard to separate science from marketing. That is precisely what we will do here. We will explore the science, the strains, the benefits, and the truth about how gut health is closely tied to fat loss and weight control.

    What are Probiotics?

    Probiotics are live microorganisms (mainly bacteria and some yeasts) that are beneficial for your health when consumed in the right amounts. They naturally reside in your gut and are also found in certain fermented foods and dietary supplements.

    These good bacteria help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which is essential for digestion, immune health, and even mood regulation. They work by colonizing the gut, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, aiding in nutrient absorption, and producing beneficial compounds like short-chain fatty acids.

    There are many different probiotic strains, and each one performs specific functions. Not all strains are effective for every health condition. That is why choosing the right type matters, especially when it comes to weight loss.

    How Do Probiotics Work?

    Probiotics influence various bodily functions by balancing the good and bad bacteria in your gut. They improve digestion, produce vitamins like B12 and K, and release enzymes that help break down food. More importantly, they affect the immune system, inflammation levels, and even hormone production. All these factors indirectly affect your body’s ability to gain or lose weight.

    They also help your body absorb nutrients better and eliminate toxins more efficiently. When your gut is in good shape, your metabolism functions better, and your body is less likely to hold on to excess fat.

    Gut Health and Weight Loss: What’s the Connection?

    Your gut microbiome is a vast ecosystem of microbes in your digestive tract. It plays a significant role in weight regulation. Studies have shown that people with obesity tend to have a different composition of gut bacteria than those with moderate weight. In particular, they tend to have a higher ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, two dominant bacterial families in the gut.

    This imbalance can result in increased energy harvest from food, elevated fat storage, and higher levels of inflammation. Probiotics can help rebalance the gut microbiome by reducing inflammation and improving how your body processes food, regulates hormones, and stores fat.

    Certain strains have been shown to increase levels of GLP-1 (a hormone that promotes satiety) and ANGPTL4 (a protein that reduces fat storage). That is why a healthy gut microbiome can make it easier to lose weight and reduce belly fat.

    Can Probiotics Help You Lose Weight?

    The idea that probiotics can support weight loss is becoming increasingly popular, but it is also misunderstood. While probiotics do not directly melt fat, they do influence several internal processes that may indirectly aid weight management. 

    These effects stem from their role in supporting a healthy gut microbiome, which is now being widely recognized as a key player in metabolic health, immune function, and even hormonal regulation. Let’s explore the specific mechanisms through which probiotics may contribute to weight loss.

    1. Probiotics Enhance Gut Microbiome Balance

    A balanced gut microbiome is essential for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. When your digestive system is populated with a diverse mix of good bacteria, it functions more efficiently. As a result, it helps the body absorb essential nutrients without storing excessive fat. Certain strains, like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, help maintain this balance by crowding out harmful bacteria. It supports a leaner metabolic profile and can help prevent weight gain linked to gut dysbiosis.

    2. Appetite Regulation Through Hormonal Modulation

    Probiotics may influence the secretion of hormones that control appetite and satiety. Studies suggest that they can boost the production of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and PYY (peptide YY)—hormones that signal fullness to the brain. When these hormones are released in higher quantities, you are less likely to overeat, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit necessary for weight loss. This mechanism offers a subtle but effective way to control daily caloric intake.

    3. Reduction in Systemic Inflammation

    Chronic inflammation is often associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Probiotics can help reduce systemic inflammation by strengthening the intestinal lining and preventing harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream, a condition known as leaky gut. By calming inflammation, probiotics support better insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism, both of which are critical for weight regulation.

    4. Improved Insulin Sensitivity

    Certain strains of probiotics may help reduce insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body’s cells do not respond well to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and fat storage. When insulin sensitivity improves, your body becomes more efficient at utilizing glucose for energy instead of storing it as fat. Probiotics like Lactobacillus gasseri have shown promise in helping with this metabolic improvement.

    5. Inhibition of Fat Absorption

    Some research suggests that probiotics reduce the amount of dietary fat absorbed by the intestine. Instead of being stored in the body, a portion of this fat is excreted, leading to fewer calories being absorbed. This effect, though modest, can contribute to long-term weight management, especially when combined with a healthy diet.

    While not a quick fix, probiotics create a healthier internal environment that supports weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.

    Best Probiotics for Weight Loss: What Science Says

    Not all probiotics are created equal. Some strains are better studied for weight-related outcomes than others. Here are some of the best probiotics for weight loss based on existing research:

    • Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055: Shown to reduce abdominal fat and BMI in several human studies.
    • Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Linked to weight reduction, particularly in women.
    • Lactobacillus plantarum LP28 and TENSIA: Shown to lower body weight and fat mass.
    • Lactobacillus casei Shirota: May reduce BMI and improve cholesterol levels.
    • Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis: Studied for fat reduction and anti-inflammatory benefits.
    • Multi-strain combinations: Often more effective due to synergy between bacterial types.

    Probiotics and Belly Fat: What You Need to Know

    One of the most stubborn types of fat is visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs and is most commonly stored around the belly. Some probiotic strains have been shown to target this fat specifically.

    Lactobacillus gasseri, for instance, has demonstrated consistent results in reducing waist circumference and belly fat in adults. While the effect is often modest, it becomes more significant when probiotics are taken over several weeks alongside a calorie-controlled diet and exercise.

    How Probiotics Help with Weight Control

    Weight control is about maintaining a physiological balance that supports metabolic health, appetite regulation, and fat distribution. Probiotics play a subtle but essential role in this equation. Let’s break down how probiotics contribute to ongoing weight control.

    Enhancing Digestive Efficiency

    Probiotics help break down food more effectively, ensuring better absorption of nutrients and energy from meals. Hence, they reduce the likelihood of undigested food lingering in the gut, which can lead to bloating, poor metabolism, and fat accumulation. A well-functioning digestive tract can also reduce cravings driven by nutritional deficiencies.

    Regulating Fat Storage Mechanisms

    Through their influence on gut-brain signaling and insulin responses, probiotics can reduce the likelihood of excess fat storage. For example, by supporting insulin sensitivity and regulating the hormone ANGPTL4 (angiopoietin-like 4), probiotics can inhibit the formation of new fat cells and promote the breakdown of existing fat deposits.

    Maintaining Satiety and Cravings

    The hormonal signals regulated by gut bacteria play a significant role in how full we feel and how often we crave food. Probiotics help modulate these signals, making it easier to control portion sizes and resist unhealthy snacking. It is crucial for weight maintenance, as small daily choices add up over time.

    Supporting Mood and Motivation

    Gut bacteria influence neurotransmitters like serotonin, which affect mood and emotional well-being. Since emotional eating is a significant obstacle in long-term weight control, maintaining a balanced gut environment may indirectly support better lifestyle choices by promoting a more stable and positive mood.

    Counteracting the Effects of Yo-Yo Dieting

    People who have lost weight often struggle with maintaining it due to metabolic adaptations and reduced microbial diversity. Probiotics help restore gut diversity post-weight loss, which can aid in keeping the weight off and maintaining a more stable internal environment. This makes probiotics a valuable tool in long-term weight control strategies.

    Together, these mechanisms show that while probiotics alone are not a cure-all for weight issues, they provide essential support to the body’s natural weight regulation systems. When combined with a balanced diet, regular activity, and adequate sleep, probiotics can make a measurable difference in maintaining a healthy weight.

    Probiotic Foods vs. Supplements: What Should You Choose?

    While many probiotic strains occur naturally in foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, the potency and strain diversity may be limited. Supplements offer a more concentrated dose, often with multiple strains targeted for specific benefits.

    That said, supplements should not replace food. They work best when combined with a high-fiber, plant-rich diet that includes prebiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed good bacteria.

    Why Supplementation May Be Necessary

    Many probiotics found in food may not survive the acidic environment of your stomach. It limits their impact by the time they reach the intestines, where they are most beneficial. Probiotic capsules with enteric coatings or high CFU (colony-forming unit) counts can be more effective.

    HealthifyMe’s Pre & Probiotic Capsules deliver 30 billion CFU and 100 mg of prebiotics, supporting gut health, skin clarity, and immunity. These capsules combine high potency with strains known for metabolic and digestive health.

    Who Should Consider Probiotic Supplements?

    Probiotic supplements can benefit those with:

    • Digestive issues like bloating, IBS, or constipation
    • High levels of inflammation
    • A history of antibiotic use
    • Difficulty losing weight despite exercise and diet
    • Skin conditions like acne or eczema

    If you fall into any of these categories, probiotics may help restore gut balance and improve your overall weight control strategy.

    Things to Consider Before Taking Probiotics

    Before choosing a probiotic, always:

    • Check the strain specificity and its proven benefits
    • Look for products with 10+ billion CFU per dose
    • Make sure it includes both prebiotics and probiotics
    • Read the label for third-party testing and shelf-stability

    Also, remember: probiotics are not magic pills. Their real value comes through long-term use as part of a sustainable lifestyle change.

    HealthifyMe Note

    As health coaches, we often meet people who are excited to jump on the probiotic trend but are confused about whether it will “burn fat” or just regulate digestion. Our advice? Think of probiotics as foundational tools, not shortcuts. A well-balanced gut can improve everything from inflammation to mood to metabolism. If chosen wisely, supplements like Healthify Pre & Probiotic Capsules can absolutely support your weight loss goals, but only if you also listen to your body, eat mindfully, and stay active. Gut health is a journey, not a destination.

    The Final Word

    Probiotics may not melt away fat overnight, but their effect on gut health, metabolism, and inflammation makes them valuable allies in your weight loss journey. By promoting a balanced microbiome, they help your body work better, from digestion to fat storage and hormonal balance.

    Among the wide range of products available today, HealthifyMe’s Pre & Probiotic Capsules stand out for their formulation, CFU strength, and added prebiotic support. They are a brilliant addition to a comprehensive plan that includes exercise, hydration, fiber-rich food, and sleep hygiene.

    In the end, sustainable weight loss is less about magic pills and more about daily discipline. Let probiotics be one helpful tool in your arsenal, but not the only one. If you are confused, reach out to a Healthify Coach. Together, we can help you figure out what works for your body and your life.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: Do probiotics help you lose weight?

    A: Probiotics can indirectly help with weight loss by improving gut health, regulating metabolism, and reducing inflammation. They promote a more efficient digestive system and can influence appetite-regulating hormones, but they are not a direct fat-burning solution.

    Q: What is the best probiotic for weight loss?

    A: Strains like Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium animalis are among the most researched for weight loss. Products that offer multi-strain support and include prebiotics, such as HealthifyMe’s capsules, may deliver the best results.

    Q: Can probiotics cause weight gain?

    A: Generally, probiotics do not cause weight gain. However, because everyone’s microbiome is unique, some people might experience bloating or fluid retention initially. These effects are typically short-lived as your gut adjusts.

    Q: Do probiotics help with belly fat?

    A: Some strains, especially Lactobacillus gasseri, have shown positive effects in reducing visceral fat and waist circumference. While results are gradual, consistent intake alongside a balanced lifestyle can help target belly fat.

    Q: Should I take probiotics daily for weight control?

    A: Yes, consistency matters. Daily intake helps maintain gut balance and supports long-term weight control. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement routine.

    Q: How do probiotics differ from prebiotics?

    A: Probiotics are live bacteria that provide health benefits. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed these bacteria. Together, they create a healthy gut ecosystem essential for weight regulation.

    Q: Is it better to get probiotics from food or supplements?

    A: Food sources like yogurt and kimchi are great for general gut health, but supplements provide higher, more targeted doses, especially helpful for those with specific health or weight goals.

    Q: Can probiotics replace diet and exercise for fat loss?

    A: No. Probiotics support fat loss, but they do not replace the need for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Think of them as supportive tools rather than standalone solutions.

    Research Sources

    1. The Influence of the Gut Microbiome on Obesity in Adults and the Role of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics for Weight Loss

    2. Probiotics for the Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Humans—A Review of Clinical Trials

    3. Use of probiotics in preventing and treating excess weight and obesity. A systematic review

    4. Probiotics: How Effective Are They in the Fight against Obesity?

    5. The Potential Role of Probiotics in Controlling Overweight/Obesity and Associated Metabolic Parameters in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    6. Role of Insulin in Health and Disease: An Update

    7. Effect of Lactobacillus sakei, a Probiotic Derived from Kimchi, on Body Fat in Koreans with Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Study

    8. https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/should-you-take-a-daily-probiotic-supplement-.h16-1592202.html

    9. Should you take a daily probiotic supplement?

    10. Probiotics for the Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Humans: A Review of Clinical Trials

    11. From gut microbiota to host appetite: gut microbiota-derived metabolites as key regulators

    12. Is Probiotic Supplementation Useful for the Management of Body Weight and Other Anthropometric Measures in Adults Affected by Overweight and Obesity with Metabolically Related Diseases? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    13. Probiotics Interact With Lipid Metabolism and Affect Gut Health

  • A Review from 2017 to 2025

    A Review from 2017 to 2025


    The speed with which AI entered our lives is phenomenal. 

    (more…)

  • Streamline Operations with Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation

    Streamline Operations with Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation


    Cisco Live North America is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to dive into the world of network automation. If you’re looking to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and ensure compliance, you need to check out the power of combining Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform.

    In this blog we will explore several popular customer use cases for Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform. We will provide guidance on how to learn more, including a demo. And if you’ll be at Cisco Live San Diego, we help you plan your agenda to learn more about these use cases.

    Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible: better together 

    For businesses with multiple branch locations or complex network infrastructures, managing IT infrastructure manually is a recipe for human errors and inefficiency, mostly due to inconsistencies in the operational procedures. Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed networking, coupled with Ansible Automation Platform, offers a robust and consistent solution to enhance your IT operations.

    Let’s explore some of the top Meraki use cases that will be available with Ansible Automation Platform, in the form of a Validated Content Collection, that will simplify your operations lifecycle: branch provisioning, audit and compliance checks, configuration drift audits, and regular rotation of Wi-Fi pre-shared keys.

    1. Branch provisioning: fast, consistent, and reliable

    Imagine deploying hundreds or thousands of new sites, retail stores, remote offices, or even a single site. Traditionally, this process would involve hours of manual configuration for each location, increasing the risk of errors and inconsistencies. Each site might require consistent configurations for firewalls, switches, and Wi-Fi access points, all of which must align with security policies. Manual provisioning is not only time consuming but also prone to human error, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities or network outages.

    With Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform, site expansion becomes a streamlined, automated process. Ansible Automation Platform allows you to create reusable Ansible playbooks, which are automated scripts that define the desired state of your network. These Ansible playbooks can interact with the Meraki API to perform configurations across all of your devices. This means you can define a template or “golden configuration” for a typical branch and then apply that configuration consistently across all new sites.

    Steps required for a branch provisioning orchestrated workflow: 

    • Create networks and claim devices.
    • Configure gateway (firewall) and WAN.
    • Configure switches.
    • Configure SSID and access points.
    • Automate documentation and reporting to update enterprise systems including Sources of Truth

    By using Ansible Automation Platform to automate branch provisioning with Cisco Meraki, organizations can achieve a more agile, reliable, and secure network infrastructure. This approach is especially beneficial for companies with a large number of geographically distributed locations, with operation teams that have to orchestrate multiple technologies, at scale, with a centralized approach.

    2. Audit and compliance check: Stay ahead of the curve

    Managing configurations across a vast network with multiple locations can quickly become complex. Maintaining consistency and ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations is critical. This is where automating audit and compliance checks with Ansible Automation Platform becomes invaluable.

    Ansible Automation Platform allows you to leverage the Meraki API using Ansible Automation Platform to compare an organization’s settings and status against a set of best practices and thresholds – uncovering configurations that should be changed.

    This includes general checks, as well as Wi-Fi and switch compliance checks.

    3. Configuration drift audit: maintain a source of truth for your firewall policies

    Configuration drift can lead to unexpected network behavior and security vulnerabilities. With Ansible Automation Platform, you can establish a “good network” baseline—your source of truth. Then, Ansible Automation Platform compares your live network configurations to this baseline and identifies any deviations, especially in critical areas like firewall policies. You decide if you want Ansible Automation Platform to automatically correct any non-compliant configurations or create a service ticket with all the details.

    By using Ansible Automation Platform to maintain a source of truth and audit for configuration drift, you can ensure that your Cisco Meraki network operates reliably, securely, and in compliance with your organization’s standards. This proactive approach greatly reduces risk and streamlines network operations.

    4. Scheduled rotation of Wi-Fi pre-shared keys: enhance security

    Regularly updating Wi-Fi pre-shared keys (PSK) for guest networks is a critical security best practice. In dynamic environments where numerous guests may access the network, static PSKs can become a security vulnerability. If a PSK is compromised, unauthorized users can easily gain access. A scheduled rotation of these keys significantly reduces this risk. Manually changing PSKs every month across multiple sites is a tedious and error-prone process, but Ansible Automation Platform can automate this crucial security task, ensuring consistent and timely updates.

    Ansible Automation Platform can be used to generate new, strong PSKs automatically and then push these new keys to all of your Meraki access points. This can be scheduled as a recurring task, ensuring that the PSKs are rotated every month without manual intervention. This automated process not only enhances security but also frees up valuable IT resources.

    Why This Matters: key advantages of Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform 

    By combining Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed networking with Ansible Automation Platform, organizations achieve:

    • Rapid deployment 
    • Proactive compliance 
    • Operational stability 
    • Enhanced security 

    Join Us at Cisco Live North America! 

    Ready to see Cisco Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform in action? Join us at Cisco Live North America! Here are a few sessions to add to your agenda that showcase the power of these technologies:

    Unite Meraki, Catalyst, and ISE with Ansible – DEVWKS-2301 

    • Monday, Jun 9, 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM PDT
    • Speakers:
      • Francois Caen, Product Manager, Cisco – Distinguished Speaker
      • Oren Brigg, Engineering Product Manager, Cisco
      • Craig Egan, System Engineer, Cisco

    Extending automation to remote branch networks (Meraki) – DEVRHL-1004 

    • Check Cisco Live U.S. Catalog, multiple times available
      • Speaker: Demond Green, Specialist Solutions Architect, Red Hat

    Seamless Network Provisioning: A Meraki and Ansible Lab – LABMER-1100 

    • Check Cisco Live U.S. Catalog, multiple times available
      • Speaker: Daniel Chaves, Customer Delivery Architect, Cisco

    Dive deeper with Red Hat content

    For more in-depth information, check out the resources available from Cisco and Red Hat:

    You can also:

    We’d love to hear what you think. Ask a Question, Comment Below, and Stay Connected with #CiscoPartners on social!

    Cisco Partners Facebook  |  @CiscoPartners X/Twitter  |  Cisco Partners LinkedIn

    Share:



  • Timor-Leste to deport ex-lawmaker Teves

    Timor-Leste to deport ex-lawmaker Teves



    MANILA, Philippines — The government of Timor-Leste on Wednesday announced that it will deport expelled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. back to the country to face the murder cases lodged against him.

    The statement from the Timor-Leste government came after Teves was arrested by Timorese immigration authorities on Tuesday evening at his house in the capital city of Dili.

    READ: Arnolfo Teves rearrested in Timor Leste; son cries ‘kidnap’

    Article continues after this advertisement

    According to the Timor-Leste government, it considers Teves’ presence within their jurisdiction a threat to national security and interests, particularly, in its bilateral relations with the Philippines.

    “The Government hereby informs that Arnolfo Teves Jr. will be deported from Timor-Leste by administrative decision of the Ministry of the Interior, as he is in the country without a valid visa, lacking legal authorization to remain, and holding a passport that the Government of the Philippines has cancelled,” the Timorese government said.

    “The decision, which takes effect immediately, is based on national legislation regarding migration and asylum and is grounded in the risks that this citizen’s continued presence poses to public order and national security,” it added.

    Apart from deporting Teves, the Timor-Leste government also announced that in accordance with its Migration and Asylum Law, the expelled lawmaker will be prohibited from entering their territory for a period of 10 years.

    The Timor-Leste government explained that in deporting Teves, it frees itself from being seen as a “refuge for individuals fleeing international justice.”

    Article continues after this advertisement

    “The Government reaffirms its commitment to the principles of the rule of law, respect for international norms concerning cooperation between states, and the safeguarding of security and stability not only within the national territory but also in the Southeast Asia region, in coordination with the collective efforts of Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Member States,” the Timorese government said.

    Although the Timorese government has announced its intention to deport Teves, it has not specified the exact date of his deportation.

    Article continues after this advertisement

    Teves is currently facing multiple counts of murder and frustrated murder. He was tagged as the alleged mastermind behind the assassination of then Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo—also known as the Pamplona Massacre—in 2023. /cb



    Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.



    Your subscription has been successful.



  • How We Protect Our Blended Family – Life Happens

    How We Protect Our Blended Family – Life Happens


    “When we, as LGBTQ+ adults, make the decision to get into a relationship and start a family, it’s not always with the support of our own family.” That is a poignant statement that will resonate with a lot of people.

    This insight came from MyLin and SK Stokes Kennedy, who are married and raising their blended family in Southern California. The couple appeared on season six of “Black Love,” where they opened up about the challenges of cultivating their partnership and raising three children.

    We are thrilled that they agreed to work with us again this year on spreading the message about the importance of life insurance.

    Life insurance? You may ask, “Where does that come into all of this?” Well, it may be more important than most people think, so read on as we chat with MyLin and SK.

     

    Life Happens: When is the first time you both heard about life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We became familiar with it after getting married but didn’t get it until we were pregnant with our first child together.

     

    LH: Why did each of you decide to purchase life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We realized that we didn’t want the other, or our kids, to suffer financially in the midst of grieving if, or when, something happens to us.

     

    LH: What type of coverage do both of you have and why?

    MyLin + SK: We currently have term life insurance. In doing research, we found that it was the least expensive option at this point for us.

     

    LH: Why should everyone have life insurance, especially LGBTQ+ adults?

    MyLin + SK: When we, as LGBTQ+ adults, make the decision to get into a relationship and start a family, it’s not always with the support of our own family. So, if something happens to us, there is the chance that our desires are not withheld by the surviving family. Wills can be contested, things drawn out. With life insurance, you can ensure that your partner and kids receive what you want them to.

     

    LH: Have you had conversations about life insurance with your family or friends?

    MyLin + SK: Yes, we’ve had convos with both. With our moms being the most important ones because of what positions we may be left in if they don’t have life insurance.

     

    LH: What did one of those conversations look like?

    MyLin: So, I found out my mom had a very small policy through her job that was under $10,000, which isn’t covering her funeral costs. That led to us looking into getting her a proper policy that would cover her funeral costs (my mom knows a lot of people so it will be big, and we will need funds), bills/debt, mortgage, her car note. There is so much that I don’t want to fall on my brother and I or have to create a GoFundMe and beg people for it. I just want it already taken care of.

     

    LH: What does life insurance mean to you?

    MyLin + SK: For us it means security and peace of mind, knowing that if anything unfortunate happens to either of us (or both of us), our kids will be taken care of.

     

    LH: What do you wish more people knew about life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We wish people understood the gravity it held. How much pain and stress dealing with financial struggles after losing a loved one can be and that we can do something about it now. We just need the knowledge and awareness spread that it’s not a huge, expensive monthly bill.

     

    LH: What research findings from our 2024 Insurance Barometer Study (Life Happens and LIMRA) do you find the most interesting?

    MyLin + SK: I was interested to see that 62% of people that said they don’t have life insurance also feel as though they need it. The desire is there, they just need more knowledge. So, there is opportunity there to get them the knowledge they need to make that next step.

     

    LH: We agree—and that really is our mission!

    MyLin + SK: And then that 22% of people that do have it say they need more. I feel like we land in that 22%. We’ve had life insurance for about five years now and pay $83 a month for all our policies, which includes $150,000 policies for each of us as parents and $15,000 policies for each of our three kids. 

    Our goal is to jump up to $500,000 of coverage on us as parents because we want our kids to have funds for their future education, just not paying off bills and debt. So even we know that there is room for growth and to receive more knowledge. That’s why we like partnering with you all. It motivates us to dig a little deeper and get more knowledge—and also to share it. Because we know more people need it.

     

    Get Started

    Don’t let being unsure of how much or what kind of life insurance to buy stop you from getting coverage. To start, you can do a quick calculation with our Life Insurance Needs Calculator to get a general idea of how much you may need. And if you want help choosing the right kind of policy that fits your budget, you can talk with an insurance professional at no cost or obligation. If you don’t have someone to work with, you can use Life Happens’ Agent Locator here.



  • Claim home loan tax benefits & Save Lakhs

    Claim home loan tax benefits & Save Lakhs


    Owning a home is a cherished milestone for many, but beyond the emotional value and security it brings, it also offers significant financial advantages. One of the most rewarding aspects is the home loan tax benefit. It substantially reduces your annual tax liability.

    If you’re servicing a home loan, both the principal and interest components of your EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) are eligible for tax deductions. With proper guidance from a tax advisor or expert tax consulting services, you can make smarter financial decisions.

    Let’s explore the various tax-saving opportunities your home loan offers and how to make the most of them.

    Understanding Your EMI: Principal and Interest

    It’s essential to understand your home loan EMI structure. Every EMI consists of two parts:

    • Principal repayment – the amount that reduces your actual loan.
    • Interest payment – the cost you pay to borrow the money.

    The home loan tax benefit applies to both components but under different sections of the Income Tax Act. Understanding these sections is key to effective tax planning and tax saving on home loan repayments.

    1. Principal Repayment – Section 80C

    Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, you can claim a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year on the principal component of your home loan EMI. This section also includes other investments like ELSS, PPF, NSC, and life insurance premiums, so your total deduction across all eligible instruments is capped at ₹1.5 lakh.

    Eligibility Conditions:

    • The home loan must be from a recognised financial institution or bank.
    • The property should not be sold within five years from the end of the financial year in which possession was obtained; otherwise, the claimed deduction will be reversed.

    A professional tax advisor can help you balance your Section 80C investments smartly to ensure optimal tax benefit without duplication or overlap.

    2. Interest Payment – Section 24(b)

    One of the most valuable home loan tax benefits comes under Section 24(b), which allows for an annual deduction of up to ₹2 lakh on the interest paid on home loans for self-occupied properties.

    For Rented Properties:

    • If your property is rented out, there is no cap on the interest deduction. However, total loss from house property that can be adjusted against other income is limited to ₹2 lakh per year.

    Eligibility Conditions:

    • The loan must be taken for purchase or construction of a house.
    • The construction or acquisition must be completed within five years from the end of the financial year in which the loan was taken.
    • You must have an interest certificate from your lender as proof.

    Tax consulting services can guide you on how to structure your finances if you’re managing multiple properties or rental income.

    3. Additional Tax Deductions for First-Time Buyers

    First-time homebuyers are eligible for additional tax benefits beyond Sections 80C and 24(b), thanks to Section 80EE and Section 80EEA.

    80EE Tax Benefit:

    • Deduction of up to ₹50,000 on interest paid, over and above Section 24(b).
    • Applicable only if:
      • Loan is sanctioned between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2017.
      • Property value does not exceed ₹50 lakh.
      • Loan amount does not exceed ₹35 lakh.
      • You do not own any other residential property at the time of loan sanction.

    Section 80EEA:

    • Offers an additional deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh on interest.
    • Applicable if:
      • Loan was sanctioned between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2022.
      • Property value does not exceed ₹45 lakh.
      • You are a first-time homeowner.

    These provisions can help first-time buyers save up to ₹3.5 lakh annually on interest paid. Consulting a trusted tax advisor ensures you meet the eligibility requirements and avoid claim rejections.

    4. Joint Home Loans – Doubling the Benefits

    If you’re buying a house jointly (e.g., with your spouse or parents), and both parties are co-owners and co-borrowers, you can effectively double your home loan tax benefit.

    Each co-borrower can claim:

    • ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C for principal repayment
    • ₹2 lakh under Section 24(b) for interest payment

    This strategy works best in dual-income households where both partners file tax returns and contribute to EMI payments. Structured properly with help from tax consulting services, joint loans can significantly lower the family’s total tax liability.

    5. Tax Benefits for Under-Construction Properties

    If your home is still under construction, you won’t be able to claim deductions under Section 24(b) until possession is obtained. However, there’s a provision for pre-construction interest deduction.

    You can claim the total interest paid during the construction phase in five equal installments starting from the year of possession, subject to the ₹2 lakh annual cap under Section 24(b).

    While the principal repayment won’t qualify under Section 80C until construction is completed, tracking and documenting your payments from day one is essential for future tax claims.

    6. How to Maximise Your Home Loan Tax Savings

    To ensure you’re extracting the full value of your home loan tax benefit, follow these tips:

    • Maintain accurate records: Always collect your interest and principal certificates from your lender annually.
    • Time your possession carefully: Delays in construction can impact your eligibility for deductions under Section 24(b).
    • Leverage joint ownership: Distribute ownership and repayment in a way that maximises deductions for all borrowers.
    • Hire a professional: A certified tax advisor can assess your income, property details, and loan terms to customise your tax strategy.

    7. How Fincart Can Help You Save More

    At Fincart, we believe that informed financial choices lead to long-term wealth and security. Our expert tax consulting services are designed to help individuals, especially salaried professionals and young homeowners, navigate the complexities of tax laws.

    Whether you’re claiming your first 80EE tax benefit, figuring out joint loan strategies, or juggling multiple deductions, our dedicated team will ensure you’re not leaving any money on the table.

    We offer:

    • Personalised tax consultation sessions
    • Documentation review and filing support
    • Home loan benefit optimisation
    • Guidance on real estate-linked tax strategies

    With Fincart, you don’t just buy a house—you unlock financial potential.

    Conclusion

    A home loan is more than a step toward property ownership—it’s a powerful tool for reducing your tax burden. From principal repayment under 80C and interest deduction under 24(b) to exclusive 80EE tax benefits for first-time buyers, the Indian tax system offers multiple avenues to make homeownership financially rewarding.

    By understanding these deductions and aligning your loan strategy with expert advice from tax advisors and tax consulting services, you can maximise your tax saving on home loan and take a smarter path toward wealth creation.

    Let Fincart help you take full advantage of your home loan benefits. Speak to our tax experts today and start saving smarter!