Louis Vuitton will introduce eight new pieces to its Le Damier Fine Jewelry collection when the line officially launches on September 18. First debuted two years ago as a high jewelry interpretation of the house’s Damier pattern, which dates back to 1888, Le Damier de Louis Vuitton now grows to more than 30 pieces. The latest additions continue the collection’s focus on tactile fluidity and a unisex aesthetic. The new jewels highlight an interplay of gold and diamonds and are designed to appeal across genders and generations, offering multiple options for layering, self styling and personal expression within the Damier motif. Additional materials are available through Louis Vuitton. By ML. Photo(s)/Louis Vuitton

Barcelona has become one of Europe’s most interesting fashion cities, driven by a growing community of independent designers, emerging labels, concept stores, vintage retailers, and creative entrepreneurs. Rather than following the traditional fashion capitals, the city has developed a distinct identity of its own, where independent creativity and craftsmanship play an important role in shaping its retail landscape. For Miista, Barcelona is a particularly natural home. The London-founded footwear and ready-to-wear brand opened its first standalone store in the city in 2017, establishing a physical presence in a place that closely reflects its connection to Spain and its design-led approach to fashion. Founded and creatively directed by Spanish designer Laura Villasenin, Miista has maintained close ties to Spain throughout its evolution. The brand’s production is rooted in the country, with its ready-to-wear collections made in Miista’s own factory in Galicia. This proximity between design and manufacturing allows the brand to take a more hands-on approach to its collections, while keeping craftsmanship and experimentation at the center of the process. That Spanish connection is also reflected in Miista’s approach to design. Known for its sculptural footwear and unconventional silhouettes, the brand has built an international following around pieces that sit somewhere between fashion, art, and everyday wear. Its Barcelona presence offers a direct connection between that international perspective and the local creative landscape that continues to influence the brand. The city itself has become an increasingly compelling destination for fashion-conscious shoppers looking beyond the established luxury capitals. From independent Spanish labels and emerging designers to vintage and second-hand retailers, Barcelona offers a more eclectic shopping experience rooted in individuality and discovery. Miista’s presence in the city since 2017 places the brand within that evolving ecosystem while offering a physical space to experience its collections beyond its international online presence. For those exploring Barcelona’s fashion scene, Miista’s standalone store can be found at: Miista Barcelona Av. del Marquès de l'Argentera, 1, B, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain With its Spanish roots, local manufacturing, and international point of view, Miista represents the kind of independent fashion brand helping to shape Barcelona’s increasingly distinctive position on the European fashion map. By ML Staff / Photos courtesy of Miista

A blackjack hand becomes confusing when its total attracts more attention than its composition or the dealer’s upcard. 12 feels fragile, 18 feels comfortable, and a pair seems to invite a split. None of those impressions is enough to choose an action. Basic strategy decisions should combine two inputs: the type of hand held by the player and the dealer card in view. Overconfidence often begins when a familiar total produces an answer before the second input has been processed. Busy displays can make that omission harder to detect. A 2025 eye-tracking study of 21 participants found that greater complexity on television news screens significantly changed the distribution and duration of viewers’ fixations, although overall recall did not change significantly. That suggests that when screens have a lot of information, it can be harder to focus on the relevant information, something that game designers should take careful note of if they want to improve the player experience. During blackjack practice, showing only the player’s cards and dealer’s upcard removes graphics that compete for attention and makes the two relevant inputs much clearer. Read Both Sides of the Decision A blackjack decision should be judged before the next card appears, not by the result that follows. A losing hit can still match basic strategy, while a winning stand can reinforce a mistake through luck. Basic strategy is a rules-specific table of recommended actions for each player hand and dealer upcard (the dealer’s single exposed card). It uses only the information available when the choice is made, rather than predicting the next card. Hands with the same numerical total can therefore require different treatment because their composition changes how another card affects the hand, and which actions remain available. Classify the player’s first 2 cards before treating their total as a single number. A hard hand has no ace counted as 11. A soft hand does, so the ace can revert to a 1 after another card arrives. A pair may open the additional choice of splitting the cards into separate hands. When you’re playing blackjack for real money, the dealer’s upcard completes the decision: hit, stand, double, or split only after reading both sides. The strategy chart must also match the rules of the table you’re playing. The number of decks, whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17, whether doubling after a split is permitted, and whether surrender is available can change some entries. A chart therefore describes a defined version of blackjack, rather than every table carrying the name. Before checking the answer, state the hand in full, such as “soft 18 against 9,” and record confidence from 1 to 4. The wording exposes whether the ace and upcard were both registered before the action was chosen. Practicing can make this much easier to understand. This five-hand blackjack drill presents a soft hand, hard totals, and a pair with only a few seconds allowed for each choice. Pause before you answer each one, write the action and confidence score, then check both against an appropriate chart. A missed answer and a guessed correct answer require different practice. The first needs a corrected boundary; the second needs another comparable hand before the response can be considered reliable. Three Hands That Expose Blind Spots A six-deck chart in which the dealer stands on soft 17, and doubling after a split is allowed, produces the decisions below. No surrender is assumed. A chart built for different conditions may recommend another action for the same cards. Hard 12 against a dealer 2: Hit. The dealer’s 2 looks weak enough to make standing seem conservative, but it’s usually the wrong approach because your odds of busting are low, and your odds of improving your hand are high. Under these rules, hard 12 stands only against 4 through 6. Switching the upcard from 2 to 4 changes the decision, even though the player’s total stays fixed. Soft 18 against a dealer 9: Hit. A hard 18 would stand, but ace-seven is soft because the ace can change from 11 to 1. Calling both hands “18” removes the composition that produces different chart entries. A pair of 6s against a dealer 7: Hit rather than split. The matching cards make the split option visually prominent, but the recommended split range ends at dealer 6 under these rules. The upcard moves the hand across that boundary. Repeat each case with a neighboring upcard. When the action changes, say the boundary aloud before checking the chart. The same total then becomes a short sequence of conditions instead of one memorized answer. Match Confidence to Accuracy The action alone cannot distinguish certain knowledge from a successful guess. Pair the checked result with the confidence recorded before seeing the answer: Result Confidence Next action Correct High Retest with different card compositions Correct Low Explain the boundary, then try a similar case Incorrect Low Identify whether the hand type or upcard was missed Incorrect High Relearn the boundary before adding speed Confidence may be logged before or after choosing an action. A 2025 Communications Psychology study found little evidence that this report order changed metacognitive efficiency across controlled perception and memory tasks. Its final analysis included 120 participants after 5 exclusions. For a personal record, keeping the same confidence scale across hands makes repeated high-confidence errors visible. Turn One Session Into an Audit After 12 to 20 hands, group the high-confidence errors by the missing element: hard or soft, pair status, dealer upcard, or rule assumption. If errors scatter across all four categories, slow the classification step, rather than drilling one hand. If most errors sit beside one boundary, practice that boundary with several card compositions before shortening the response time. A score records how many answers matched the chart; the grouped errors identify the next hands worth rehearsing. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Unsplash

Running a business while raising a family brings flexibility and independence, but it also creates financial responsibilities that differ from traditional employment. Income may fluctuate, benefits are often self-funded, and long-term planning requires greater personal involvement. A thoughtful financial strategy helps families manage uncertainty while creating stability for both household and business needs. Strong financial habits developed today can support greater confidence in the future. Build a Budget Around Realistic Income Self-employed income often changes from month to month because of seasonal demand, client schedules, or project-based work. Instead of basing a household budget on the highest earning months, calculate an average income using financial records from the previous year. Essential expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, transportation, and debt payments should receive priority. During higher-earning months, directing extra income into savings helps prepare for slower periods without disrupting daily living. Reviewing the budget every month allows families to respond quickly if income patterns begin to change. Separate Business and Household Finances Keeping personal and business finances separate improves organization and reduces confusion during tax season. Dedicated bank accounts and credit cards make it easier to monitor business expenses, evaluate profitability, and prepare accurate financial reports. Using accounting software also simplifies recordkeeping by tracking invoices, expenses, and payments in one location. Organized financial records provide valuable information when applying for financing, planning future investments, or working with financial professionals. This separation also makes it easier to evaluate whether the business is consistently supporting household financial goals. Prepare for Taxes and Protection Unlike employees whose taxes are often withheld automatically, self-employed individuals are generally responsible for estimated tax payments throughout the year. Setting aside a percentage of each payment received can reduce financial pressure when tax deadlines arrive. Insurance also deserves regular attention. Comparing a life insurance quote alongside other financial planning decisions can help families evaluate coverage that protects loved ones if unexpected circumstances occur. Disability, health, and business insurance should also be reviewed periodically as income and family responsibilities change. Working with qualified financial and tax professionals may also help identify planning opportunities while maintaining compliance with current regulations. Strengthen Emergency and Retirement Savings Emergency savings are especially important for self-employed households because business revenue may change unexpectedly. Many financial professionals recommend maintaining several months of essential living expenses in an accessible savings account. Retirement planning should also remain a consistent priority. Self-employed individuals have several retirement savings options that may provide tax advantages while supporting long-term financial security. Even modest contributions made regularly can grow significantly over time through consistent investing. Reviewing retirement accounts annually helps ensure savings remain aligned with changing financial goals. Plan for Major Family Milestones Financial planning should extend beyond monthly expenses. Families benefit from preparing for future goals such as home purchases, college education, business expansion, or caring for aging relatives. Creating dedicated savings accounts for major expenses allows progress without disrupting everyday finances. Reviewing these goals each year helps determine whether contribution amounts need adjustment as family priorities evolve. Open conversations about financial expectations also encourage every family member to participate in responsible money management. Financial success for self-employed families depends on preparation rather than predictability. A realistic budget, organized records, consistent tax planning, appropriate insurance coverage, emergency savings, and long-term investment strategies all contribute to greater financial stability. Regular reviews of both household and business finances allow families to adapt confidently to changing circumstances while supporting future opportunities. Thoughtful planning creates a stronger foundation for everyday life and helps self-employed households pursue their personal and professional goals with greater peace of mind. To learn more, feel free to check out the accompanying infographic below. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Microsoft Stock Images

Owning rental property can provide long-term financial benefits, but successful management depends on consistent organization rather than reacting to problems as they arise. From maintaining the property to communicating with tenants, daily operations influence occupancy rates, expenses, and the overall rental experience. Establishing reliable systems helps landlords reduce stress while protecting both their investment and their relationships with tenants. A proactive approach often prevents small issues from becoming expensive disruptions. Create Organized Processes From Day One Well-organized records form the foundation of efficient rental operations. Lease agreements, maintenance requests, inspection reports, rent payment histories, and vendor information should all be stored securely and remain easy to access. Maintaining accurate documentation simplifies renewals, budgeting, and dispute resolution if questions arise later. Digital recordkeeping also makes it easier to monitor multiple properties without relying on paper files. A standardized onboarding process creates consistency and helps ensure that important information is communicated before move-in. Prioritize Preventive Maintenance Routine maintenance is generally less expensive than emergency repairs. Seasonal inspections allow landlords to identify roof damage, plumbing leaks, HVAC issues, or exterior wear before they develop into larger problems. Replacing HVAC filters, servicing heating and cooling systems, cleaning gutters, and checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors contribute to safer, more reliable housing. Scheduling recurring maintenance also reduces the likelihood of unexpected equipment failures that inconvenience tenants. Maintaining a list of trusted contractors allows repairs to begin quickly when unexpected situations occur. Build Strong Tenant Communication Clear communication encourages positive landlord-tenant relationships. Tenants should know how to report maintenance concerns, request repairs, and receive updates regarding scheduled work. Responding promptly to questions demonstrates professionalism and helps build trust. Even when repairs require additional time, providing regular updates reassures tenants that their concerns are being addressed. Written communication also creates a record of important conversations, reducing misunderstandings later. Budget Beyond Routine Expenses Successful landlords plan for both expected and unexpected costs. Mortgage payments, insurance, property taxes, utilities for vacant units, and routine maintenance represent ongoing expenses that should be included in annual budgets. Setting aside reserve funds for major repairs such as roof replacement, appliance failures, or plumbing emergencies helps reduce financial pressure when larger projects become necessary. Reviewing operating expenses each year also identifies opportunities to improve efficiency without reducing property quality. Careful budgeting supports stable cash flow and long-term investment performance. Use Technology to Improve Efficiency Digital tools simplify many aspects of rental operations. Online payment systems, maintenance request portals, digital lease storage, and inspection software reduce paperwork while improving organization. Some landlords also work with property management firms when expanding their portfolios or managing multiple locations. Whether responsibilities remain in-house or are delegated, standardized systems improve consistency and help maintain service quality. Technology should support communication and recordkeeping while making routine tasks easier to manage. Review Performance Regularly Property operations benefit from periodic evaluation. Reviewing occupancy rates, maintenance costs, tenant turnover, repair response times, and operating expenses provides insight into overall performance. Comparing these measurements over time helps landlords identify recurring issues that may require process improvements or capital investments. Feedback from tenants can also highlight opportunities to improve the rental experience while strengthening retention. Regular reviews encourage informed decision-making rather than relying on assumptions. Effective rental operations depend on planning, communication, and ongoing maintenance rather than responding only after problems develop. Organized records, preventive care, thoughtful budgeting, efficient technology, and regular performance reviews all contribute to a smoother ownership experience. Landlords who establish dependable operating practices are better positioned to protect their investment and create sustainable long-term success in the rental market. For more information, feel free to look over the accompanying infographic below. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Microsoft Stock Images

Selling fine jewelry can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what affects its value. Two pieces may look almost identical, yet one can receive a much higher offer than the other. Without understanding what buyers look for during an appraisal, it may be difficult to know whether an offer accurately reflects your jewelry’s value. They look at unique features that define resale value, market demand, and overall quality. Understanding these factors helps you prepare your jewelry and approach the selling process with greater confidence. The following are the factors experienced buyers consider before making an offer. 1. Diamond Quality and Grading Standards Most diamond buyers begin by evaluating the diamond because it’s often the most valuable part of the piece. Rather than basing it on a fast visual perception, they have predetermined standard of grading to determine the market value of the diamond. The majority of appraisals start with the four popular Cs: carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. Carat is the weight of the diamond, and cut is the degree to which the diamond has been shaped to achieve the best brilliance. Color measures how colorless the diamond is, while clarity evaluates natural inclusions and surface imperfections. Together, these four factors give buyers a clear picture of the diamond’s overall quality. Buyers also determine whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown since the two can have very different resale values. They also examine the chips, scratches, or previous repairs that may affect the overall condition of the diamond. All these details allow buyers to arrive at a fair evaluation rather than to evaluate the diamond based on its appearance. 2. Metal Type and Overall Jewelry Condition Of course, the diamond is only part of the overall evaluation. Buyers also examine the metal because it contributes to both the jewelry’s value and durability. The most common metals are gold and platinum, with purity and weight being significant aspects of the final appraisal. In addition to the material, it is the overall state of the jewelry that counts. Scratches, worn prongs, damaged settings, or loose stones can affect both the jewelry’s appearance and repair costs. A well-maintained piece usually requires fewer repairs before resale, making it more appealing in the secondary market. Cleanliness also helps buyers complete a more accurate inspection. 3. Brand Recognition and Designer Value A well-known brand can have a meaningful impact on a jewelry evaluation. Pieces from well-known luxury brands often hold their value because they remain popular with both collectors and resale buyers. At the time of the appraisal, buyers look for signatures, hallmarks, serial numbers, or maker’s marks to help confirm authenticity. These details help buyers identify the maker and support a more accurate evaluation. Designer jewelry can also command higher resale prices because of its distinctive design and craftsmanship. By considering both the brand and the condition, buyers can better estimate how appealing the piece will be in today’s resale market. 4. Craftsmanship and Setting Quality A buyer’s evaluation goes beyond gemstones and precious metals. Buyers carefully inspect how the jewelry has been made because quality craftsmanship often reflects durability, attention to detail, and long-term value. They inspect the setting closely because it keeps the diamond secure. Strong prongs, balanced proportions, and precise stone placement indicate careful construction. On the other hand, worn or damaged settings may require repairs before resale, affecting the overall offer. They also pay attention to the finishing details, including polished surfaces, secure clasps, smooth edges, and overall symmetry. Handmade or antique pieces often receive additional attention because skilled craftsmanship and unique construction techniques can increase buyer interest. 5. Current Market Demand and Resale Potential Quality is only one part of the evaluation process. Buyers also consider current market demand because it plays a major role in determining resale value. Styles, diamond sizes, and jewelry designs that are in high demand often attract stronger offers than those with lower buyer interest. Market trends can change over time. Some diamond shapes, vintage designs, or designer collections remain popular, while others may become less desirable. They also consider how easily the piece is likely to sell in today’s market. In addition, economic conditions and the supply of similar jewelry can affect pricing. Instead of relying only on replacement value, buyers focus on realistic resale value. This allows buyers to make offers that reflect current market conditions instead of outdated retail prices or older appraisals. 6. Documentation and Certification Details Supporting documents can make the appraisal process more efficient by giving buyers verified information about your jewelry. While not every piece comes with paperwork, any available records can help buyers confirm important details more quickly. This also gives buyers greater confidence in their evaluation. Diamond grading reports from recognized laboratories confirm details such as carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. These reports provide an independent assessment of the stone and support a more accurate evaluation. Original receipts, designer certificates, and warranty documents can also help verify authenticity and identify the item’s history. Even without documentation, your jewelry can still be professionally evaluated. Experienced buyers examine the diamond, metal, craftsmanship, and overall condition through a detailed physical inspection. While paperwork doesn’t determine the value by itself, it provides useful supporting information. It gives buyers additional information that can support the appraisal and sometimes speed up the process. Conclusion Understanding how buyers evaluate jewelry gives you a clearer picture of what influences its resale value. Instead of focusing on a single feature, experienced buyers consider the diamond, metal, craftsmanship, brand, condition, market demand, and supporting documentation together. Together, these factors help buyers make a well-informed assessment. Knowing what buyers evaluate before you sell helps you prepare your jewelry, set realistic expectations, and approach the appraisal process with greater confidence. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of magnific.com

Image by DepositPhotos TL;DR The clearest Amazon PPC agency red flags are structural. An agency that wants to own a Seller account, charges a percentage of ad spend, guarantees a specific ACoS, or locks a brand into 12 months without an out-clause has misaligned incentives before work begins. Daily optimization is the minimum standard. Checking Seller Central change history for meaningful bid and search-term changes multiple times per week, especially in the first 90 days, is the way to verify it. Flat retainers remove the incentive to inflate spend. The percentage-of-spend model creates a conflict of interest because the agency earns more when the brand spends more, regardless of profitability. Named results with real numbers separate credible agencies from vague claims. Case studies with specific dollar figures and metrics like ACoS reduction or revenue growth are worth asking for directly. Account ownership stays with the brand. Amazon seller accounts are generally not transferable; access is granted through Seller Central user permissions. What are the biggest red flags when hiring an Amazon PPC agency? Amazon PPC agency red flags often show up before a contract is signed. The biggest warning signs include an agency that insists on owning the Seller account, charges a percentage of ad spend, guarantees a specific ACoS or page-one ranking, locks a brand into a long contract with no exit clause, and sets campaigns then forgets them. Olifant Digital has managed Amazon advertising across 50+ brands and $114M+ in annual client revenue. This article lists 12 warning signs to watch for, the questions to ask before signing, and the agencies that avoid these problems. Why the wrong Amazon PPC agency is so expensive A bad Amazon PPC agency does more than underdeliver. It wastes ad spend on irrelevant keywords, drives up ACoS without generating profit, and can stall organic rank when campaigns are left to run without ongoing search-term work. The cost compounds over time. Rising CPCs combined with poor targeting inflate TACoS (the ratio of total ad spend to total revenue, including organic). Wasted spend erodes margin while doing nothing for discoverability. Most brands working with an Amazon PPC agency in 2026 typically pay $1,500 to $5,000 per month or 10-20% of ad spend, depending on catalog size and scope. A suspiciously cheap quote or an opaque pricing structure signals that the work behind the fee may not include the daily hands-on management Amazon PPC requires. Image by DepositPhotos 12 Amazon PPC agency red flags to watch for These are the warning signs to check before and after signing with an Amazon PPC agency. 1. They want to own the Amazon Seller account A brand should remain the permanent Owner of its Amazon Seller account. Amazon seller accounts are generally not transferable; the brand keeps the Owner role and grants an agency access rather than handing over the account. Access is granted through Seller Central user permissions, which lets the agency manage advertising while the brand retains full control. An agency that insists on owning the account, creating listings under its own account, or registering the brand itself can hold the business hostage if the brand wants to leave. 2. They charge a percentage of ad spend The percentage-of-ad-spend model ties the agency's revenue to how much a brand spends, regardless of whether that spend is profitable. This creates a conflict of interest because the agency earns more when spend rises, even when scaling is the wrong call. A flat retainer removes this incentive. The agency earns the same fee whether spend is $10,000 or $100,000 per month, so the only way to justify a renewal is by improving results. 3. They guarantee a specific ACoS, rank, or Buy Box ACoS (Advertising Cost of Sales) is the percentage of ad revenue spent on ads. It shows how efficiently ads convert, but no agency controls the inputs that determine it. No agency controls Amazon's ranking algorithm, review policy, or Buy Box logic. A guaranteed ACoS, page-one rank, or Buy Box win is either naive or dishonest. A credible agency talks in terms of targets, thresholds, and the strategies to hit them. 4. They lock a brand into a 12-month contract with no out-clause A 12-month lock-in with no performance out-clause transfers all the risk to the brand. If results miss, the fee still gets paid. A reasonable contract structure is a short ramp (about 90 days) for the agency to prove performance, followed by a 30-day exit clause. Month-to-month after the ramp is even better. Performance guarantees with fee protection are best. 5. They set campaigns and forget them Daily optimization is the ongoing process of adjusting bids, adding negative keywords from search term reports, reallocating budget toward high-performers, and pausing underperformers. It is the work that keeps spend productive. "Set and forget" quietly bleeds spend. Keywords that converted last month may be wasting budget this month. Checking Seller Central's campaign change history is the way to verify an agency's activity. Meaningful changes should appear multiple times per week, especially in the first 90 days of the engagement. 6. Junior or offshore-only staff sold as senior strategy Offshore execution for bid changes and reporting is fine if it is disclosed and supervised. The red flag is misrepresenting who makes strategic decisions. If a polished sales pitch from a senior strategist leads to day-to-day management by a junior employee juggling 30 accounts, the strategy that was sold doesn't reach the campaigns. Asking who touches the account daily, where they are located, how many accounts they manage, and who attends recurring calls surfaces this quickly. 7. Reporting hides behind vanity metrics Vanity metrics are numbers that look good but don't connect to profit. Impressions and clicks sound impressive but mean nothing if they don't convert. Reporting should be in plain language and tied to profit metrics: ACoS, TACoS, conversion rate (CVR), and organic rank movement. If reports are walls of impressions and clicks without ACoS breakdown by campaign type or product, the agency may be hiding underperformance. Free Amazon PPC calculators let a brand verify the math independently. 8. No clear campaign structure Amazon PPC campaigns should be separated by job. A solid structure typically includes: testing campaigns for new keywords, scaling campaigns for proven winners, exact match campaigns to push organic rank, and brand defense campaigns to protect branded search. Mixed match types in one campaign, auto and manual together without clear purpose, or thousands of keywords dumped into a handful of campaigns are signs of amateur work. Asking an agency to explain its campaign architecture before signing is a fast way to spot this. 9. Communication drops after the sale A polished sales pitch followed by silence is a classic pattern. Before signing, setting explicit expectations helps: response times (same-day for urgent, 24 hours for standard), a recurring call cadence (weekly or biweekly), and who attends those calls. If the agency can't commit to specifics in writing, the attentiveness shown during sales is unlikely to continue once the contract is signed. 10. The quote is suspiciously cheap Market context helps here. If most established agencies charge $1,500 to $5,000 per month for managed Amazon PPC, a quote of $500 per month is unlikely to buy daily human optimization. It probably buys automated bid tweaks and a monthly PDF report. Cheap quotes also sometimes come with hidden costs: setup fees, exit fees, or essential deliverables priced as add-ons. Getting the full scope and total cost in writing before comparing quotes is worth doing every time. 11. A generalist agency claiming Amazon depth Amazon has its own rules: Brand Registry, listing compliance, variation structures, suspension handling, and Vine reviews. A generalist digital marketing shop that bolts Amazon onto its services list rarely has depth in these areas. Asking about compliance and reinstatement experience reveals a lot. An agency that has navigated listing suppressions, IP complaints, or policy violations knows the platform at a level a generalist doesn't. 12. No named client results with real numbers Vague phrases like "great results for our clients" or "significant improvement" with no named brand and no specific number are a red flag. Credible agencies can share case studies with real client names (or anonymized but specific data points) and measurable outcomes. Results like "$688,406 in annual Amazon profit for Ekster" or "+391% Amazon sales for WedgeGuys" are verifiable; "we grew their sales" is not. Asking for examples with dollar figures, percentage changes, and timeframes is the fastest way to separate the two. Questions to ask before signing an Amazon PPC agency Turning the red flags into a vetting checklist gives a clear picture of what a good answer sounds like for each one. Question What a good answer sounds like Who owns the Amazon Seller account? "You do. We request User Permissions access. You remain the Owner at all times." How is your fee structured? "Flat monthly retainer. No percentage of ad spend." Do you guarantee a specific ACoS or rank? "No. We set targets and show you the strategies to hit them, but we cannot guarantee what Amazon's algorithm does." What is your contract length and exit process? "90-day ramp, then 30-day exit notice. No penalty for leaving." What will you do on my account each week? "Bid adjustments, search term analysis, negative keyword additions, and budget reallocation. Here is a sample change log." Who works on my account and how many accounts do they manage? "A senior strategist with at least 5 years of Amazon experience, managing 8-10 accounts." What metrics do you report, and in what format? "ACoS, TACoS, CVR, and organic rank movement. Plain-language reporting, not just data dumps." Can you share named client results with numbers? "Yes. Here is a case study with dollar figures, timeframes, and outcomes." Image by DepositPhotos Amazon PPC agencies that avoid these red flags This ranked list favors agencies with transparent pricing, senior execution, plain-language reporting, and named client results. Olifant Digital holds the top position and is the most detailed entry. Every other agency is listed with neutral, factual profiles using publicly available information. Rank Agency Best for 1 Olifant Digital Established brands that want profitable growth and daily hands-on Amazon PPC management 2 Tinuiti Enterprise brands wanting a large multi-channel media partner 3 Envision Horizons Mid-market brands wanting managed Amazon Ads with strong reporting 4 Nuanced Media Brands wanting an experienced generalist Amazon and DTC partner 5 My Amazon Guy Sellers who value education-heavy, hands-on catalog and PPC support 6 Thrive Agency Brands wanting Amazon plus broader digital marketing under one roof 7 Acadia Growth-stage brands scaling on Amazon and beyond 8 eStore Factory Small to mid-size sellers wanting affordable full-service Amazon support 9 AMZ Advisers Brands expanding into international Amazon marketplaces 10 SellerPlex Founder-led brands wanting hands-on PPC and operations help 11 Trivium Group Brands wanting an award-recognized Amazon PPC specialist 12 Blue Wheel Brands wanting Amazon within a broader omnichannel program 1. Olifant Digital Why Olifant Digital ranks first: Olifant Digital provides Amazon PPC management focused on profit rather than ad-platform metrics, backed by structural safeguards against the exact red flags this article outlines: a flat retainer, senior-only staffing, and named, verifiable results. What sets Olifant Digital apart: Every account receives daily optimization, with senior specialists (minimum 7 years of experience) working alongside the in-house AI platform, Olifant AI. Campaign architecture follows the 1-1-1-1 Scaling Method, which separates campaigns into four strategic focuses: testing, scaling winners, exact match for organic rank, and brand defense. Reporting is plain language, tied to ACoS, TACoS, and margin. Documented client results: Ekster ($688,406 annual Amazon profit), WedgeGuys (+391% Amazon sales with a 17% ACoS reduction), MatchaBar (+$114,305 monthly Amazon revenue). Manages $114M+ in annual client revenue across 50+ brands, with 98% partner retention. Full-service Amazon management covering strategy, SEO, creative, and profit tracking is also available. Best fit for: Established brands that want profitable growth and daily hands-on Amazon PPC management. Pricing: Flat retainer starting at $2,000 per month with no percentage-of-spend fees. Custom pricing depends on catalog complexity and scope. Every engagement is backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee on management fees. 2. Tinuiti Why they stand out: Tinuiti manages Amazon as one channel inside a much larger enterprise media operation spanning Google and Meta, backed by top-tier Amazon partner status. What to know: Enterprise-scale media agency covering Amazon, Google, and Meta under one roof. Full-funnel Amazon and retail media advertising. Amazon Ads Advanced Partner (top tier). Best fit for: Enterprise brands wanting a large multi-channel media partner. Keep in mind: Brands wanting a boutique team focused exclusively on Amazon PPC pricing transparency may find a smaller specialist a tighter fit than an enterprise, multi-channel firm. 3. Envision Horizons Why they stand out: Envision Horizons backs its data-led advertising approach with proprietary reporting tooling and top-5% Amazon partner status, plus recognition through Amazon's own Rising Stars program. What to know: Offers Amazon advertising and marketplace management with a data-led approach. Proprietary reporting tooling. Amazon Advanced Ads Partner (top 5% globally); Rising Stars Program participant. Best fit for: Mid-market brands wanting managed Amazon Ads with strong reporting. Keep in mind: Brands wanting a PPC-only engagement should confirm scope, since this agency positions around broader marketplace management. 4. Nuanced Media Why they stand out: Nuanced Media brings over 15 years of operating history and a large managed GMV figure to Amazon and multi-channel e-commerce marketing. What to know: Long-standing Amazon and multi-channel e-commerce marketing agency, founded in 2010. Full-service Amazon management. Over $1B in client GMV. Best fit for: Brands wanting an experienced generalist Amazon and DTC partner. Keep in mind: Brands wanting a narrow, PPC-only engagement should confirm scope, since this is a broader multi-channel marketplace agency. 5. My Amazon Guy Why they stand out: My Amazon Guy pairs a large in-house team managing over $1B in revenue with an unusually extensive free training library, letting brands evaluate its methodology before signing. What to know: Provides Amazon Seller Central management, PPC, and SEO with a large in-house team. 400+ brands generating $1.2B+ in managed revenue. 2,600+ free tutorials. Best fit for: Sellers who value education-heavy, hands-on catalog and PPC support. Keep in mind: A large team and broad client base mean account experience can vary depending on brand size and who gets assigned. 6. Thrive Agency Why they stand out: Thrive Agency offers month-to-month agreements with no long-term lock-in, directly avoiding red flag #4, backed by over two decades in business. What to know: Full-service digital marketing agency that includes Amazon services. Month-to-month agreements with no long-term lock-in. 20+ years in business (founded 2005). Best fit for: Brands wanting Amazon plus broader digital marketing under one roof. Keep in mind: Brands wanting an Amazon-only specialist may find a dedicated marketplace agency a tighter fit than a generalist digital marketing firm. 7. Acadia Why they stand out: Acadia's Amazon growth focus is backed by direct participation in Amazon's Central Sellers program, with roots tracing to Bobsled Marketing's early Amazon-native positioning. What to know: Focuses on Amazon and retail media growth. Amazon Central Sellers program participation. Founded by Kiri Masters; acquired Bobsled Marketing in 2022. Best fit for: Growth-stage brands scaling on Amazon and beyond. Keep in mind: The 2022 acquisition means confirming which original Bobsled Marketing team members and processes carried over is worth doing. 8. eStore Factory Why they stand out: eStore Factory holds registered Amazon Service Provider Network status across five marketplaces, giving it verified standing across a wider geographic footprint at an accessible price point. What to know: Offers Amazon account management, PPC, and creative. Registered Amazon SPN member. Serving US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia marketplaces. Best fit for: Small to mid-size sellers wanting affordable full-service Amazon support. Keep in mind: Brands wanting a premium, senior-only staffing model should confirm how account work is staffed relative to affordable positioning. 9. AMZ Advisers Why they stand out: AMZ Advisers backs its international marketplace expansion focus with a large served-brand count and Amazon's own certification. What to know: Specializes in Amazon advertising and global marketplace expansion. Multi-marketplace management across many countries. 500+ brands served; Amazon Ads Advanced Partner. Best fit for: Brands expanding into international Amazon marketplaces. Keep in mind: A large client roster means confirming account-team seniority and attention level directly is worth doing. 10. SellerPlex Why they stand out: SellerPlex is led by a founder who built and exited his own FBA businesses, backed by a strong independent review base and a sizable specialist team. What to know: Provides Amazon PPC, catalog, and operations management with a founder-led team. 25 Clutch reviews at 5.0. 80+ specialists; led by Nate Ginsburg. Best fit for: Founder-led brands wanting hands-on PPC and operations help. Keep in mind: Brands well outside SellerPlex's typical client revenue range may find a different-sized partner a better fit. 11. Trivium Group Why they stand out: Trivium Group backs its Amazon PPC and full account management with a strong independent review base and formal fast-growth recognition. What to know: Amazon PPC and full account management agency with recognition for fast growth. Inc. 5000 (#170) and Clutch 2025 awards. ~40 Clutch reviews at 5.0. Best fit for: Brands wanting an award-recognized Amazon PPC specialist. Keep in mind: Brands wanting broader full-service coverage beyond PPC should confirm the depth of listing, creative, and operations support. 12. Blue Wheel Why they stand out: Blue Wheel handles Amazon within a broader omnichannel commerce operation, backed by over a decade in business and $1B+ in managed revenue. What to know: Handles Amazon and omnichannel commerce management. Amazon Advanced Partner and SAS Core; $1B+ managed revenue. Founded 2011. Best fit for: Brands wanting Amazon within a broader omnichannel program. Keep in mind: Brands selling exclusively on Amazon with no omnichannel ambitions may not need this level of cross-channel infrastructure. Image by DepositPhotos What a healthy Amazon PPC agency relationship looks like A healthy Amazon PPC agency relationship starts with aligned incentives and clear accountability. Red flag Healthy alternative Agency owns the account The brand owns the account; agency has User Permissions access Percentage-of-spend fee Flat retainer that doesn't reward overspending Guaranteed ACoS or rank Targets with a clear strategy, no false promises 12-month lock-in, no out Short ramp, then 30-day exit clause Set and forget Weekly changes visible in Seller Central change history Vanity-metric reporting Plain-language reporting in ACoS, TACoS, and profit Silence after signing Weekly calls, fast response times, dedicated contact The right agency operates as an extension of the internal team. Activity in the account should be visible regularly, every number in the reports should be understandable, and there should be freedom to leave if results miss. Frequently asked questions How much should an Amazon PPC agency cost? Most brands pay roughly $1,500 to $5,000 per month for managed Amazon PPC, or 10-20% of ad spend. The fee model matters more than the number: a flat retainer removes the conflict of interest that percentage-of-spend creates. Should a business or the agency own the Amazon account? The business should own the Amazon Seller account. The agency gets access through Seller Central User Permissions, while the brand retains the permanent Owner role. Can an Amazon PPC agency guarantee a specific ACoS or page-one ranking? No. No agency controls Amazon's ranking algorithm, review policy, or Buy Box logic. Guarantees on specific outcomes are either unrealistic or misleading. How can a brand tell if its Amazon PPC agency is actually working on the account? Checking Seller Central's campaign change history is the way to verify it. Meaningful bid, keyword, and budget changes should appear multiple times per week, especially in the first 90 days. Is a long-term contract a red flag? A long lock-in with no performance out-clause is. A reasonable structure is a short ramp (about 90 days) followed by a 30-day exit notice. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of DepositPhotos

Florida Grand Opera is preparing to open its 85th anniversary season in South Florida this November, highlighting both its mainstage productions and its ongoing community programs. The company reports that its recent initiatives have introduced opera to new audiences, including children attending performances through funded transportation, veterans and their families participating in the Voices of Wellness program, and community members attending free concerts. Additional outcomes and audience stories are detailed in the organization’s impact report. This November, tenor Arturo Chacón-Cruz will open Florida Grand Opera’s 85th Anniversary Season in Lucia di Lammermoor in the role of Edgardo. The opera is historically significant to the company as the work in which Luciano Pavarotti made his American debut on its stage. Alongside its mainstage performances, Florida Grand Opera plans to expand its Voices of Wellness initiative this season, increasing complimentary seats from 750 to 1,000 for veterans, military personnel, first responders, healthcare workers and their families. By ML. Photo(s)/Florida Grand Opera

Have you ever wondered why the jewelry box you reach for most is not the one with the biggest, boldest pieces? Or why a single delicate bracelet on your wrist can feel more like you than an entire drawer of statement jewelry? Something has clearly shifted in how people think about fine jewelry, and dainty gold bracelets sit right at the center of that shift. Fine jewelry used to mean big, formal, and reserved for special occasions. In 2026, it increasingly means something else entirely: thoughtfully made, worn daily, and produced in a way the wearer can feel good about. How Dainty Became the New Default For a long time, fine jewelry culture rewarded size and sparkle. Bigger stones, thicker chains, and more obvious shine signaled value. That standard has been quietly replaced by something more personal. Delicate, minimal pieces now dominate everyday styling, not just special occasions. A few reasons dainty gold bracelets have taken over everyday styling: They layer effortlessly with other pieces without competing for attention Their lightweight feel makes them comfortable for all day wear Their simplicity pairs with almost any outfit, casual or dressed up They read as intentional rather than flashy, fitting how people want to present themselves now This shift toward subtlety is not just a passing trend. It reflects a broader change in how people relate to what they wear. The Rise of Ethical Sourcing as a Real Expectation Ethical sourcing used to be a nice-to-have detail buried in a brand's about page. Now it is often one of the first questions shoppers ask before buying fine jewelry. Where did the gold come from? Was it mined responsibly? Were the people who made this piece treated fairly? This growing expectation is backed by real market movement. According to Grand View Research, the global jewelry market's gold segment held the largest material share in 2025, and the report specifically notes rising awareness of sustainable and ethically sourced materials shaping brand choice in North America. That is not a niche concern anymore. It is influencing how an entire market segment behaves. What Ethical Manufacturing Actually Looks Like Ethical claims are easy to make and harder to back up. Genuine ethical manufacturing usually involves several specific practices working together, not just a single feel good statement. Look for these signs when evaluating whether a brand's ethical claims hold up: Traceable sourcing for gold and materials, ideally with documented origin Small batch or made to order production rather than mass manufacturing Fair labor practices throughout the supply chain, not just at the final assembly stage Transparency about where and how pieces are actually made Brands that can speak specifically to these practices, rather than offering vague language about being conscious or responsible, tend to be the ones actually doing the work behind the scenes. How Gold Filled Construction Fits This Movement Solid gold has always carried prestige, but it comes with a high price tag and a heavier environmental footprint tied to mining. Gold filled construction has emerged as a practical middle ground, offering the look and durability of gold at a more accessible price point while requiring less raw material overall. A well made gold filled bracelet can last for years with proper care, resisting tarnish and fading far better than gold plated alternatives. That durability matters for sustainability in a very direct way. A piece that lasts is a piece that does not need replacing, which reduces the overall demand on mining and manufacturing over time. Everyday Versatility Without Sacrificing Craftsmanship One of the biggest shifts in fine jewelry has been the expectation that a well made piece should work just as well with a t-shirt as it does with an evening outfit. Dainty gold bracelets fit that expectation naturally, since their simple design does not lock them into a single dress code. Somewhere in the middle of this shift sits a growing category of brands built specifically around everyday fine jewelry. This is where dainty gold bracelet styles have found real traction, offering delicate, stackable pieces meant to be worn constantly rather than saved for rare occasions. Brands like Le Serey are built around this exact philosophy, creating handcrafted, ethically made pieces designed for effortless daily stacking and layering. How Stacking Culture Changed the Way Bracelets Are Designed Wearing a single, heavy bracelet has largely given way to stacking multiple thin pieces together. This shift has changed how bracelets are designed, favoring lighter chains, simpler clasps, and finishes that complement rather than compete with neighboring pieces. A well designed stack typically includes a base chain bracelet as the anchor piece, a slightly textured or beaded piece for contrast, a small charm for personal meaning, and a cuff or bangle to vary the shape within the stack. This kind of layering rewards simplicity in each piece, which is exactly why dainty designs have become so central to modern bracelet culture. It's the same idea behind a jewelry capsule wardrobe, a few versatile pieces that mix and match easily. What to Look for When Choosing a Bracelet That Lasts Not every gold bracelet is built with everyday wear in mind. Some pieces are designed for occasional use and are not made to withstand daily friction, water exposure, or repeated removal. When shopping for a bracelet meant for daily rotation, prioritize: Secure, easy to use clasps that hold up over time Hypoallergenic materials for sensitive skin Adjustable lengths for a comfortable, custom fit Construction that resists tarnishing with regular wear Getting these details right upfront means fewer replacements down the road, which fits neatly into the ethical and sustainable mindset driving this shift in the first place. Getting these details right upfront means fewer replacements down the road, which fits neatly into the ethical and sustainable mindset driving this shift in the first place. Final Thoughts Fine jewelry in 2026 looks less like an occasional indulgence and more like a daily habit built around pieces made to last. Dainty gold bracelets sit at the intersection of that shift, offering everyday versatility alongside a growing demand for ethical, transparent manufacturing. Delicate, minimal designs have replaced bold statement pieces as the everyday default, and ethical sourcing has become a genuine expectation rather than a marketing bonus. Gold filled construction plays a real part in this shift too, offering durability without the cost or footprint of solid gold, while stacking culture continues to reshape how bracelets are designed. Choosing pieces built for daily wear reduces long term replacement and waste, which is really the heart of what this shift is about. If your jewelry collection is due for an update, a well made, ethically produced gold bracelet might be the small change that fits both your style and your values. By ML Staff. Images generated with OpenAI.

I love discovering the little-known moments in Miami’s history, especially the ones that reveal how deeply the city’s story is connected to Cuba and the Caribbean. Colony Theatre on Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach, 1933 August 13 in Miami History August 13, 1933: Cuba’s political upheaval reaches Miami On this day, the dramatic collapse of Cuban President Gerardo Machado’s government was unfolding just across the Florida Straits. Machado, who had ruled Cuba increasingly as a dictator, had fled Havana the previous day as widespread unrest and violence swept the capital. His departure marked the end of a turbulent period in Cuban history and the beginning of another era of political instability. The events were felt immediately in South Florida, where Miami and Key West were already closely connected to Cuba through geography, trade and migration. Image/President Gerardo Machado, Wikimedia Commons Miami became a destination for people fleeing the upheaval On August 13, the U.S. State Department received a telegram from Ambassador Sumner Welles in Havana concerning members of Machado’s family. A Cuban gunboat was transporting Machado’s wife, Elvira, along with several relatives and servants toward Key West. Welles requested that U.S. authorities provide facilities for their arrival and police protection as they traveled through Florida, specifically mentioning both Key West and Miami. Photo/Sumner Welles (1892-1961) was a career diplomat and an influential foreign policy advisors of the 20th century. Photo/Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library, Wikimedia Commons The connection was even more dramatic with the arrival of Orestes Ferrara. Ferrara, who had served as Machado’s Secretary of State, escaped Cuba aboard a Pan American seaplane after coming under gunfire. Contemporary reports described the aircraft as having been struck by bullets during the flight. When Ferrara arrived in Miami, he encountered a hostile crowd of Cuban exiles and supporters of the revolution. His arrival illustrates how Miami was already becoming a place where opposing sides of Cuban politics could collide. Twenty-five years later, August 13 marked another important moment in Miami history. On August 13, 1958, Pope Pius XII formally established the Diocese of Miami, creating a new Catholic jurisdiction covering 16 counties in South Florida. At its creation, the diocese had 51 parishes and approximately 185,000 Catholics. Bishop Coleman F. Carroll became Miami’s first bishop and was installed later that year. Pope Pius XII established the Diocese of Miami in 1958. He named Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh Coleman F. Carroll as the diocese’s first bishop. Ten years later Bishop Carroll became the first Archbishop of Miami. This photo is currently exhibiting in the museum’s permanent collection. Photo/Archbishop John C. Favalora Archive & Museum The timing proved especially significant because Miami was about to experience enormous demographic change. The new diocese expanded rapidly in the years that followed, with the number of parishes nearly doubling between 1958 and 1963. Much of that growth was connected to the arrival of Cuban refugees, along with Catholics moving to South Florida from other parts of the United States. The Cuban exodus would profoundly reshape Miami’s culture, neighborhoods, institutions and identity. By Marc Sullivan. Top photo/Colony Theatre on Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach, pictured in a historic photograph documenting the landmark theater at 1040 Lincoln Road Mall. Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS), Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) or Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS). Wikimedia Commons

If you know Zara, you already know one of the brands behind the world’s largest fashion retailers. Zara’s parent company, Inditex, is a Spanish fashion group that operates several international brands, including Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, Stradivarius, Oysho, and Bershka. Now, one of its most youth-focused brands has officially arrived in the United States, choosing Miami as its home. BERSHKA has opened its first U.S. storefront at Aventura Mall, bringing its trend-driven fashion and connection to music and digital culture to Miami. Founded in 1998, BERSHKA focuses on fashion for younger audiences, operating at the intersection of mainstream fashion, emerging subcultures, music, and digital culture. The brand now operates more than 850 stores across more than 60 markets worldwide. Its U.S. debut follows the opening of its first store in Brazil earlier this year, with additional international expansion planned throughout 2026. For Miami shoppers, the choice of Aventura Mall makes sense. The center attracts a strong mix of local, international, Gen Z, and young millennial shoppers, while its location also gives the brand access to the city’s substantial tourism base. The new BERSHKA also adds to Inditex’s presence at Aventura Mall, which is already home to Zara and Massimo Dutti. Inside the New BERSHKA The new store brings together BERSHKA’s three primary collections: BERSHKA, BSK, and MAN. Each collection is presented within a cohesive retail environment incorporating stone, wood, and ceramic elements, with architecture and product design working together to reflect the brand’s contemporary identity. The physical store also extends BERSHKA’s existing digital presence through Bershka.com. The U.S. launch follows Inditex’s broader omnichannel strategy, allowing customers to move between online and in-store shopping. Customers can check product availability, browse inventory across stores, locate items in-store, and place online orders for pickup, with some orders available for collection within two hours. The store also includes dedicated areas for returns and online order collection, along with assisted, technology-enabled self-checkout. Products available online will be offered at the same prices as in stores. Online purchases can be returned within 30 days, while orders of more than $75 qualify for free shipping. Customers can also choose in-store pickup for online purchases. A Miami Launch With Meg Donnelly To mark its U.S. debut, BERSHKA is featuring American actress, singer, and performer Meg Donnelly in a fashion editorial. Her work across acting, music, and dance reflects the brand’s focus on connecting fashion with music and contemporary culture. The Miami store will also support BERSHKA’s Members Community through exclusive benefits and future events. The community currently has more than 40 million members across 17 markets. With its first U.S. storefront now open, BERSHKA is using Miami as the starting point for its next phase of American expansion. For local shoppers, it adds another international fashion name to an already competitive retail landscape while giving BERSHKA a physical foothold in the U.S. market. By ML Staff. Photos/BERSHKA

For several months during the summer of 2022, my dog Scout vomited at 3 a.m. nearly every day. If you have a dog, you know the sound. And each time, she gobbled up her mess before I could get to it, making diagnosis of the cause difficult.The vet and I eventually settled on my hydrangeas as the source of the problem – but keeping Scout away from them didn’t work. She started to seem tired all the time – highly concerning in a typically hyper yellow Lab puppy. Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash Then one day Scout vomited up a hairball – but not just any hairball. In dogs, hair normally passes easily through the digestive system, but this hairball was wrapped around a brillo pad that was too big to move through. Once this foreign object was removed, the overnight vomiting ended. Scout still needed treatment, though, for a different and surprising reason: The object had inhibited a step in her body’s absorption of vitamin B12. B12 is an essential nutrient involved in proper functioning of blood cells, nerves and many other critical processes in the body. I’m a registered dietitian, and I teach nutrition and food science to college students, but still I missed the B12 deficiency that was causing my puppy’s fatigue. Doctors can just as easily be blind to it in people – even though B12 deficiency is a common health problem that affects an estimated 6% to 20% of the U.S. population. B12 is scarce in the diet, and it is found only in foods from animal sources. Fortunately, humans need only 2.4 micrograms of B12 daily, which is equivalent to one ten-millionth of an ounce – a very, very small amount. Without adequate B12 in the body, overall health and quality of life are negatively affected. Signs and symptoms One primary symptom of B12 deficiency is fatigue – a level of tiredness or exhaustion so deep that it affects daily life activities. Other symptoms are neurological and may include tingling in the extremities, confusion, memory loss, depression and difficulty maintaining balance. Some of these can be permanent if the vitamin deficiency is not addressed. However, since there can be so many causes for these symptoms, health care providers may overlook the possibility of a B12 deficiency and fail to screen for it. Further, having a healthy diet may seem to rule out any vitamin deficiency. Case in point: Because I knew Scout’s diet was sound, I didn’t consider a B12 deficiency as the source of her problems. Image by Ephraim Mayrena, Unsplash How B12 is absorbed Research is clear that people who consume plant-based diets must take B12 supplements in amounts typically provided by standard multivitamins. However, hundreds of millions of Americans who do consume B12 may also be at risk because of conditions that could be hampering their body’s absorption of B12. B12 absorption is a complex multistep process that begins in the mouth and ends at the far end of the small intestine. When we chew, our food gets mixed with saliva. When the food is swallowed, a substance in saliva called R-protein – a protein that protects B12 from being destroyed by stomach acid – travels to the stomach along with the food. Specific cells in the stomach lining, called parietal cells, secrete two substances that are important to B12 absorption. One is stomach acid – it splits food and B12 apart, allowing the vitamin to bind to the saliva’s R-protein. The other substance, called intrinsic factor, mixes with the stomach’s contents and travels with them into the first part of the small intestine – the duodenum. Once in the duodenum, pancreatic juices release B12 from R-protein and hand it to intrinsic factor. This pairing allows B12 to be absorbed into cells, where it can then help maintain nerve cells and form healthy red blood cells. A B12 deficiency typically involves a breakdown at one or more of these points on the way to absorption. An array of vitamin B12-rich foods – all of which come from animals. Risk factors for B12 deficiency Without saliva, B12 will not bind to the saliva’s R-protein, and the body’s ability to absorb it is inhibited. And there are hundreds of different drugs that can cause dry mouth, resulting in too little saliva production. They include opioids, inhalers, decongestants, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs and benzodiazepines, like Xanax, used to treat anxiety. The last three categories alone account for easily 100 million prescriptions in the U.S. each year. Another potential contributor to B12 deficiency is low levels of stomach acid. Hundreds of millions of Americans take anti-ulcer medications that reduce ulcer-causing stomach acids. Researchers have firmly linked the use of these drugs to B12 deficiency – although that possibility may not outweigh the need for the medication. Production of stomach acid can also decrease with aging. More than 60 million people in the U.S. are over age 60, and some 54 million are over the age of 65. This population faces a higher risk of B12 deficiency – which may be further increased by use of acid-reducing medications. Production of gastric acid and intrinsic factor by the specialized parietal cells in the stomach is critical for B12 absorption to occur. But damage to the stomach lining can prevent production of both. In humans, impaired stomach lining stems from gastric surgery, chronic inflammation or pernicious anemia – a medical condition characterized by fatigue and a long list of other symptoms. Another common culprit of B12 deficiency is inadequate pancreas function. About one-third of patients with poor pancreas function develop a B12 deficiency. And lastly, Metformin, a drug used by around 92 million Americans to treat Type 2 diabetes, has been associated with B12 deficiency for decades. Treatment for B12 deficiency While some health care providers routinely measure B12 and other vitamin levels, a typical well-check exam includes only a complete blood count and a metabolic panel, neither of which measures B12 status. If you experience potential symptoms of a B12 deficiency and also have one of the risk factors above, you should see a doctor to be tested. A proper lab workup and discussion with a physician are necessary to discover or rule out whether inadequate B12 levels could be at play. In the case of my dog Scout, her symptoms led the vet to run two blood tests: a complete blood count and a B12 test. These are also good starting points for humans. Scout’s symptoms went away after a few months of taking oral B12 supplements that also contained an active form of the B vitamin folate. In humans, the type of treatment and length of recovery depend on the cause and severity of the B12 deficiency. Full recovery can take up to a year but is very possible with appropriate treatment. Treatment for B12 deficiency can be oral, applied under the tongue or administered through the nose, or it may require various types of injections. A B12 supplement or balanced multivitamin may be enough to correct the deficiency, as it was for Scout, but it’s best to work with a health care provider to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Words by Diane Cress, Associate Professor of Nutrition and Food Science, Wayne State University. Special thanks to The Conversation for republishing permission. Please support and donate today.