It’s likely that you’ve had your cholesterol levels checked by your doctor and continue to do so on a regular basis. If you haven’t, I highly recommend that you do so, but with at least one addition to the standard lipid panel!

A standard lipid panel consists of the following (recommended levels according to the American Heart Association) included:

• Total cholesterol: below 200 mg/dL
• High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL or HDL-C): above 60 mg/dL
• Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL or LDL-C): below 100 mg/dL (for those with diabetes: below 70 mg/dL)
• Triglycerides: below 150 mg/dL.

Many people rely on these numbers to assess their risk for heart disease, so much so that many can rattle off their numbers without a second thought. HDL has become colloquially known as the “good” cholesterol, while LDL has been coined the “bad” cholesterol.

While this is generally true, there is more to the story! There is an additional marker that you should be aware of that has been shown to be a much better predictor of your risk of heart disease, yet most doctors don’t order it unless you ask.

That Marker Is Called LDL-P!

LDL-P (which stands for LDL particle number) measures the actual number of LDL particles circulating in your bloodstream. This differs from LDL-C (often simply referred to as LDL on your bloodwork), which estimates the total amount of cholesterol within the LDL molecules.

As a reminder, LDL molecules are the lipoproteins that carry and transport cholesterol. You can have varying amounts of cholesterol within a single LDL molecule.

In other words, LDL-C tells you the estimated amount of cholesterol, but it does not tell you how many LDL particles it is taking to carry that cholesterol, which turns out to be what matters more in terms of predicting heart disease risk.

Why Knowing Your LDL-P Number Is So Important…

While LDL-P is not the only predictor of heart disease, according to research, we do know that it is more strongly associated with risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis than LDL cholesterol. Additional research also showed that “LDL-P was related more strongly to future [cardiovascular disease] in both sexes than LDL-C or non-HDL-C.”

According to Dr. Chris Kresser and the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, “patients with high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and low LDL particle number (LDL-P) are not at high risk of heart disease.” In other words, knowing your LDL number may not be enough to assess your risk! Knowing your LDL-P number in addition to your LDL can help you glean more insight as to your true risk for cardiovascular disease.

According to Labcorp, LDL-P should be under 1000 nmol/L, and is considered very high if above 2000nmol/L. These numbers are based on the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).

What Contributes to High LDL-P?

According to Dr. Chris Kresser (read his 4 part series for lots more info!), the following are some of the top contributors to undesirably high LDL-P levels:

• insulin resistance
• poor thyroid function
• bacterial or viral infections
• increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”)

If you are struggling with any of these contributing factors, check out my 12 Weeks to Well program where I can help you rebalance these underlying issues.

What to Do Next…

If you have never seen a marker for LDL-P on your bloodwork, you should consider asking your doctor to test for it. Another option is to order an NMR LipoProfile® Blood Test yourself through a website such as Life Extension.

Knowing your LDL-P can help you and your doctor decide if a statin is right for you. While statins are generally considered safe, taking a statin to lower cholesterol in someone who doesn’t actually have a high risk for heart disease can potentially do much more harm than good.

Knowing your LDL-P number can help you and your doctor make a more informed decision in regard to treatment and lifestyle changes.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever heard of LDL-P? Have you ever had your LDL-P tested? Do you have high cholesterol? Do you take a statin to manage your cholesterol? What lifestyle changes have you made and did they improve your cholesterol numbers?

Candle-making kits provide an excellent starting point for beginners who are eager to explore the world of candle-making but may feel overwhelmed by the extensive array of supplies and techniques. These thoughtfully curated kits contain everything you need to embark on your candle-making journey, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re looking to dive into candle making as a relaxing hobby or seeking a unique gift for a crafty friend, these kits will ignite your creativity and guide you through the process with ease.

Here are my five favorite candle-making kits for beginners:

1. DilaBee DIY Candle-Making Kit
2. DINGYAI Candle-Making Kit
3. Scandinavian Candle Co. Luxury Soy Wax Candle-Making Kit
4. HSJL Candle-Making Kit
5. SoftOwl Premium Soy Candle-Making Kit

Why Choose Pre-Made Candle-Making Kits?

Pre-made candle-making kits provide beginners with all the necessary supplies conveniently packaged together. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits:

Convenience and Time Saving

Candle-making starter kits are convenient and time-saving solutions for beginners. They come with all the necessary supplies and materials, eliminating the need to search for individual items. The kits often include detailed instructions or step-by-step guides, providing clear directions and tips to ensure a successful candle-making experience.

Cost-Effectiveness

Candle-making starter kits are cost-effective compared to purchasing individual supplies, providing beginners with a more affordable option. These kits contain a variety of candle-making supplies, allowing beginners to experiment with various techniques and styles without needing additional materials.

Assured Compatibility

The supplies included in candle-making starter kits are carefully selected and tested to ensure compatibility. The waxes, fragrances, wicks, and other components work well together, taking the guesswork out of sourcing individual supplies.

Exploration and Creativity

Candle-making starter kits encourage beginners to explore their creativity from the very beginning. By providing a diverse selection of supplies, kits enable beginners to learn and discover their preferences without extensive research or investing in a wide range of individual supplies.

Read HOW TO START CANDLE MAKING: A GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS.

1. Best Overall: DilaBee DIY Candle-Making Kit

The DilaBee DIY Candle-Making Kit is a complete package designed for candle enthusiasts. This kit features a range of components to kickstart your candle-making journey. The package includes two pounds of premium soy wax, a dedicated melting pot for safe and efficient melting, four candle tins with snug lids, an array of vibrant wax colors, and four fragrances.

This kit goes beyond the basics by including essential accessories, including wooden stirring sticks, a wax thermometer, and high-quality wicks. It also includes self-adhesive labels to ensure safe burning.

Product Specifications

• Wax Type: Soy
• Scents: Cinnamon vanilla, lavender, coconut lime, clean cotton
• Amount: 32 ounces of wax in flake form

Pros

• Clear and user-friendly instructions.
• All-inclusive kit with everything needed to get started.
• Wax is high-quality and melts easily.
• Affordable price point.

Cons

• Included fragrances are not very strong and may not appeal to all crafters,

The Bottom Line

Experience the joy of candle making with the DilaBee DIY Candle Making Kit. With its comprehensive selection of materials and user-friendly instructions, the DilaBee DIY Candle-Making Kit is the perfect gateway for beginners and budget-conscious crafters.

2. Best Budget-Friendly: DINGPAI Candle-Making Kit

While the DINGPAI Candle-Making Kit is basic, it provides a cost-effective way to explore the craft. It includes the essential items to get started, but does not come with containers, dyes, or fragrances. However, considering its affordable price, it offers great value for what it provides.

Product Specifications

• Wax Type: Soy
• Scents: None
• Amount: 12.4 ounces of wax in flake form

Pros

• Very affordable, making it an accessible option for beginners on a budget.
• Reusable stainless steel stirring spoon adds to the kit’s value.
• Sufficient quantity of wicks and glue dots for creating multiple candles.

Cons

• Does not include containers, dyes, or oils, which need to be purchased separately.
• Limited amount of wax provided, enough for making 2-3 candles.

The Bottom Line

Get your feet wet in the world of candle-making without blowing your budget with the DINGPAI Candle-Making Kit. While it lacks containers, dyes, and fragrance oils, it offers essential tools such as a melting pot, wicks, wax, a stirring spoon, bow tie clips, and glue dots. With this kit, you can start your candle-making journey on a budget and expand your collection of supplies as you progress.

3. Best Premium: Scandinavian Candle Co. Luxury Soy Wax Candle-Making Kit

The Scandinavian Candle Co. Luxury Candle-Making Kit is a must-have for candle enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics and premium quality. This kit is designed to provide a luxurious candle-making experience for beginners and pros alike.

The highlight of this kit is its 100% natural vegan soy wax, ensuring clean burning, minimal soot, and a long burn time. With the three 8-ounce bags of wax included, you have enough material to create 5 to 6 average-sized candles.

Product Specifications

• Wax Type: Natural vegan soy
• Scents: Basil & Mandarin, Wood Sage & Sea Salt
• Amount: 32 ounces of wax in flake form

Pros

• Premium candle tins and melting pitcher add a touch of luxury to your candles.
• Non-toxic and vegan soy wax for a clean and eco-friendly burning experience.
• Contains all the essential supplies needed for candle making.

Cons

• Could benefit from a greater variety of scent options.
• Wax dye for colored candles is not included in the kit.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Scandinavian Candle Co. Store’s Candle-Making Kit offers a delightful combination of premium materials, exquisite fragrances, and essential supplies. While it may be limited in terms of quantity and scent variety, it provides an excellent opportunity for beginners to create beautiful, luxury candles at home. This kit also makes a wonderful gift!

4. Best Beeswax: HSJL Candle-Making Kit with Melting Pot

The HSJL Candle-Making Kit is perfect for anyone who wants to try making beeswax candles. It comes with everything you need, including an electric wax melter, and unlike the other kits on this list, it also comes with a few molds for making candles in fun shapes.

Specifications

• Wax Type: Natural beeswax
• Scents: None
• Amount: 16 ounces of beeswax in flake form

Pros

• Includes easy-to-use melting pot with temperature control.
• Non-toxic natural beeswax.
• Colorful candle tins.

Cons

• Does not include fragrances.
• Melting pot is small.

The Bottom Line

The HSLJ Candle-Making Kit with Melter offers an excellent place to start for anyone interested in making beeswax candles. The melting pot works with multiple wax types and is easy to use, making it a solid investment for beginners. With wax, molds, tins, wicks, glue dots, and more, this kit has everything necessary to get started.

5. Best Fragrant: SoftOwl Premium Soy Candle-Making Kit

With the SoftOwl Premium Soy Candle-Making Kit, making beautiful, fragrant candles is easy. This premium kit features all the essentials, including easy instructions and over three pounds of wax, color dye blocks, fragrance oils, dried flowers, and more. It even comes with a digital thermometer.

Specifications

• Wax Type: Premium soy
• Scents: Lavender, cinnamon, jasmine, apple, vanilla, sandalwood, rose
• Amount: 3.5 pounds of soy wax in flake form

Pros

• Significantly more wax than most starter kits.
• Beautiful jars, tins, and labels.
• Wide range of fragrances included.

Cons

• Dried flowers can be a fire hazard.
• Fragrances are not strong.

The Bottom Line

The SoftOwl Premium Soy Candle-Making Kit offers a comprehensive package for candle-making enthusiasts. With its generous amount of wax, attractive containers, and a variety of fragrances, it provides an excellent starting point for beginners.

The world of candle-making is within reach for beginners with the help of pre-made kits.

Now that you’ve learned about the benefits of using a candle-making kit and explored the features of some of the best kits on the market, it’s time to take action and start your candle-making journey!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever made candles before? If so, what was your experience like? If not, what intrigues you about starting this craft?

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Do you love to pack a bag, get in your car, and hit the road? Solo or with friends, road trips are a great way for women over 50 to explore and enjoy the beauty of the United States.

Here are some iconic road trip routes that cater to different interests and offer memorable experiences.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California) – This scenic drive along California’s coastline offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, charming coastal towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
2. Route 66 (Chicago to Los Angeles) – Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is a classic American road trip. It stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, passing through eight states, and offers a nostalgic journey through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and stunning landscapes.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina) – This picturesque drive winds through the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing spectacular vistas, lush forests, and fascinating mountain communities. It’s particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves change colors.
4. Great River Road (Mississippi River) – Following the course of the mighty Mississippi River, this road trip takes you through 10 states and offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You can explore historic towns, visit antebellum plantations, and enjoy scenic river views.
5. Historic Route 1 (Florida Keys) – Driving the Overseas Highway, which is part of Route 1, allows you to explore the gorgeous Florida Keys. You’ll drive across a series of bridges and experience the vibrant marine life, white sandy beaches, and unique island communities.
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana) – Located in Glacier National Park, this mountain road offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. It’s a great choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina) – This coastal road trip takes you through a series of barrier islands along the North Carolina coast. You can visit historic lighthouses, relax on beautiful beaches, and explore the many fishing villages.
8. Skyline Drive (Virginia) – Located in Shenandoah National Park, this scenic road trip showcases the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive offers numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and black bears.
9. The Black Hills and Badlands (South Dakota) – This road trip takes you through the rugged beauty of the Black Hills and Badlands region. You can explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Badlands National Park, and the charming town of Deadwood.

Read WHAT TO WEAR ON A ROAD TRIP – OUTFITS TO INSPIRE YOU

Why These Road Trips Are Epic

These road trips were selected based on the following criteria:

• Popularity, iconic status, and appeal to women over 50.
• Scenic beauty, cultural significance, historical landmarks, and unique experiences.
• Diverse range of attractions and activities catering to different interests.
• Coastal drives, mountain vistas, historic sites, and charming towns.
• Recommendations by travelers, including women over 50.
• Memorable adventures and exploration opportunities in the United States.

Most Iconic Road Trips in the USA

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, is a legendary road trip route that stretches along California’s picturesque coastline for approximately 655 miles (1,055 kilometers).

This iconic highway offers a mesmerizing journey with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, rugged shorelines, and pristine beaches.

Traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway allows you to visit charming coastal towns like Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Malibu. You can explore iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the historic Hearst Castle.

Route 66 (Chicago to Los Angeles)

Route 66, often referred to as the “Mother Road,” is the most iconic road trip route that spans approximately 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers) from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California.

This historic highway holds a special place in American culture and offers a nostalgic journey through a bygone era. Traveling along Route 66 allows you to explore small towns, experience the charm of roadside diners and motels, and encounter quirky roadside attractions that have become symbols of American roadside culture.

The route takes you through eight states, including Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, each offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences. From the urban bustle of Chicago to the sun-soaked beaches of California, Route 66 showcases the diversity and spirit of America, making it a cherished road trip for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

Read WE GOT OUR KICKS ON RT 66!

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic road trip route that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina. Spanning approximately 469 miles (755 kilometers), this iconic parkway offers sensational vistas, dense forests, and several mountain communities.

As you travel along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of rolling mountains, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant fall foliage during the autumn months. The route also provides access to numerous hiking trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding national parks and forests.

Along the way, you can visit historic sites, such as the Folk Art Center and the Blue Ridge Music Center, which celebrate the rich Appalachian culture. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a perfect choice for those seeking tranquility, stunning landscapes, and a connection with nature.

Great River Road (Mississippi River)

The Great River Road is a scenic road trip route that follows the course of the mighty Mississippi River for approximately 2,340 miles (3,765 kilometers) through 10 states.

This route offers a captivating journey filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. As you travel along the Great River Road, you’ll encounter charming river towns, picture-perfect landscapes, and fascinating landmarks.

The route takes you through Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Along the way, you can explore historic sites like Fort Snelling in Minnesota, visit antebellum plantations in Louisiana, immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of Memphis, and experience the unique charm of New Orleans.

The Great River Road offers a diverse range of experiences and a deep connection to the culture and heritage of the Mississippi River region.

Historic Route 1 (Florida Keys)

Historic Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, is a scenic road trip route that traverses the stunning Florida Keys archipelago.

Spanning approximately 113 miles (182 kilometers), this highway takes you from the mainland of Florida to Key West, the southernmost point of the US.

Driving along Historic Route 1 offers a fascinating journey with astonishing views of crystal-clear turquoise waters, tropical landscapes, and bridges connecting the islands. Along the way, you can stop at beautiful beaches, visit historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants.

The Florida Keys are renowned for their marine life, making the route ideal for snorkeling, diving, and fishing enthusiasts. Historic Route 1 provides an unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, rich history, and the laid-back island atmosphere of the Florida Keys.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Going-to-the-Sun Road is another breathtaking road trip route located in Glacier National Park, Montana. Spanning approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers), this scenic highway takes you through the heart of the park, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

As you journey along Going-to-the-Sun Road, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped peaks, untouched alpine meadows, and sparkling glacial lakes.

The road winds its way through towering forests and crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife sightings, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and grizzly bears.

The engineering marvel of the road itself, with its narrow curves and cliffs, adds to the sense of adventure and thrill.

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable experience immersed in the unspoiled beauty of Glacier National Park.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina)

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a road trip route that stretches along the North Carolina coast, encompassing a series of barrier islands known as the Outer Banks. This scenic byway offers approximately 138 miles (222 kilometers) of coastal beauty, history, and coastal communities.

As you travel along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, you’ll encounter picturesque beaches, towering sand dunes, and the mesmerizing Atlantic Ocean. The route takes you past historic lighthouses like Cape Hatteras and Bodie Island, providing glimpses into the area’s maritime heritage.

You can explore quaint fishing villages, sample fresh seafood, and visit attractions like the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, commemorating the birthplace of aviation.

Skyline Drive (Virginia)

Skyline Drive is a scenic road trip route that spans approximately 105 miles (169 kilometers) through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. This iconic drive is located within Shenandoah National Park, offering stunning vistas, serene forests, and abundant wildlife.

As you travel along Skyline Drive, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of rolling mountains, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The route features numerous overlooks where you can pause to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and capture memorable photos.

Along the way, you can embark on hikes to explore the park’s pristine trails, discover the beauty of wildflowers, and possibly spot wildlife such as black bears, deer, and songbirds.

Skyline Drive is particularly captivating during the fall season when the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of colors. It provides a tranquil escape into nature and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Black Hills and Badlands (South Dakota)

The Black Hills and Badlands region in South Dakota offers a road trip route that showcases the unique beauty and rich history of the area. Spanning approximately 125 miles (201 kilometers), this scenic drive takes you through a diverse landscape of towering granite peaks, deep canyons, and vast grasslands.

As you explore the Black Hills and Badlands, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore. You can also visit Custer State Park, home to a thriving population of wildlife including bison, elk, and pronghorn.

The route leads you to Badlands National Park, characterized by its rugged rock formations, otherworldly landscapes, and fossil-rich areas. Here, you can hike through unique trails, witness stunning sunsets, and explore the park’s ancient geological history.

The Black Hills and Badlands offer a blend of natural wonders, Native American culture, and rich historical heritage, making it a road trip destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

How to Prepare for an Epic Road Trip

Preparing for an epic road trip involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential preparations to consider.

Plan Your Route

Decide on the destinations you want to visit, map out the route, and estimate the driving times between each stop. Research attractions, scenic viewpoints, and accommodations along the way.

Read 20 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL APPS FOR WOMEN OVER 60.

Check Your Vehicle

Ensure your vehicle is in good condition by scheduling a maintenance check-up. Check the tires, brakes, fluid levels, lights, and wipers. Pack a spare tire, jack, and necessary tools. Also, make sure your roadside assistance is up to date.

Pack Wisely

Make a packing list of essentials such as clothing, toiletries, medications, electronics, and travel documents. Consider the climate and activities at your destinations. Pack light but include necessary safety and emergency items like a battery pack for your phone.

Book Accommodations in Advance

If you plan to stay overnight at specific locations, book accommodations in advance to secure your desired options and avoid last-minute hassles. This is especially important when you are traveling during the peak tourist season.

Prepare Entertainment and Navigation

Load up on road trip playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts for entertainment. Make sure your GPS or navigation system is up to date or use a reliable navigation app on your smartphone.

Read 9 PODCASTS FOR WOMEN OVER 50 and 5 MUSIC APPS FOR WOMEN OVER 60.

Research Local Regulations and Attractions

Familiarize yourself with traffic laws and regulations specific to the areas you’ll be driving through. Research local attractions, dining options, and any special events happening during your trip.

Budget and Expenses

Set a budget for your road trip, including fuel costs, meals, accommodations, and activities. Keep some extra cash or a credit card for emergencies or unexpected expenses.

Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Carry a roadside emergency kit, first-aid supplies, and a basic toolset. Share your travel itinerary with a trusted person and keep them informed of your progress during the trip.

Snacks and Drinks

Pack a cooler with water, snacks, and drinks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the journey. Consider portable and non-perishable options.

Enjoy the Journey

Embrace the flexibility and freedom of a road trip. Leave room for spontaneous detours and enjoy the unexpected discoveries along the way.

Remember, thorough preparation and flexibility will contribute to a successful and enjoyable road trip experience. Happy travels!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you done an iconic road trip? Have you driven any of these routes? Are you planning an epic road trip? Do you like to road trip solo, with your partner, or with friends? Tell us about it in the comments below.