Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
dimanche 1 novembre 2015
REI Changes the Black Friday Retail Game With 1 Incredible Move
Some shoppers live for Black Friday deals, especially when it comes to stocking up on discounted gear for Winter activities. If you have your eyes set on a pair of skis or snowboarding pants, however, don't even think about buying them at REI. The outdoor equipment company announced it will be closing down all of its 143 stores on Black Friday but will still pay all 12,000 full- and part-time employees. The move comes as part of the company's #optoutside initiative, which encourages everyone to spend the day outdoors instead of duking it out for products in stores.
"For 76 years, our co-op has been dedicated to one thing and one thing only: a life outdoors. We believe that being outside makes our lives better," Jerry Stritzke, the president and CEO, said. "And Black Friday is the perfect time to remind ourselves of this essential truth."
While the stores will be closed, you'll still be able to place orders on REI's website, although the company will try to divert buyers with a cover screen to encourage them to spend the day outdoors. And while most retailers are tracking their profits from Black Friday sales, the CEO said he's not worried about REI losing much money on this day. The company, unlike most, doesn't have shareholders and is a "consumer co-op," meaning REI has member customers who pay a one-time fee and get back an annual dividend.
The focus, Jerry added, is to bring in new, passionate members rather than compete for holiday bargain hunters.
4 Ways to Wake Up and Work Out - Even in the Dark!
While a shift in seasons always helps things feel anew, waking up for a workout when it's dark out is a tough transition. Staying warm and cozy in bed feels like the obvious option when your alarm sounds off, but taking advantage of a.m. workouts helps in the long run. If you're struggling with waking up before the sun, these tips will help you rise up and stay motivated.
- Don't hit snooze: Just say no to the snooze button. It's the kiss of death for an early-morning workout. It seems like a feasible option, but making deals with yourself in the morning that allow you another three or 10 minutes of sleep is a slippery slope. When you hear your alarm go off, just get up.
- Have a reward ready: Knowing that a big cup of coffee or a delicious breakfast awaits you in the kitchen will make getting up so much easier. Consider cooking a make-ahead breakfast to enjoy once you're up, or leave out everything you need for your cup of morning coffee. It will make the process as carefree as possible - instead of worrying about something else on your laundry list of chores.
Related: Too Cold to Get Out of Bed? A 5-Minute Energizing Warmup
- Lay out your clothes: Neatly prep all your workout clothes before you hit the hay. Double check to make sure you've got anything and everything you need ready to go. If you're heading to the gym, don't forget the outfit you'll need for work the next day or any of your favorite toiletries for the shower.
- Find a friend: Early-morning workouts seem a little less painful when you've got a friend along for the ride. Whether you're hitting the streets for a run or getting in the car to head to a bootcamp class, having a partner in crime on a similar mission will help you stick to your plan. You'll be far less likely to bail if you'd be letting someone you love down.
Related: The Workout That Made Me a Morning Person
Why You Need More Water This Fall
Most people already know that drinking water in Summer's heat is important, but getting yourself to drink enough water when the weather cools off is a different story. If helping your body function at its top potential - and preventing headaches - isn't enough, then let these four beauty-inspired reasons urge you to toast with water more regularly.
Support skin: Forget expensive creams and treatments; drinking water is one of the best things you can do to keep your skin looking young and glowing all year long. Staying hydrated promotes skin circulation at its base so that skin repair doesn't decrease. If you feel like you're constantly overloading on lotion with no results, drinking more water every day could improve your condition.
Related: 20 Quick Tips For the Healthiest Week Ever
Suppress appetite: Drinking a glass of water before meals helps you eat less, since thirst is often mistaken for hunger. In fact, studies have found that folks who stay on top of their water intake actually consume fewer calories. This is also a great technique for someone who tends to overeat when they're bored.
Keep belly bloat in check: Staying away from salty foods and dairy certainly helps, but one of the best ways to make sure you don't retain water is to drink plenty of water. It seems a little counterintuitive, but filling up on water and keeping your body hydrated keeps bad belly bloat at bay.
Boost metabolism: We know that drinking more water helps you before, after, and during your workout, but it actually helps you burn more calories! One study showed that people who drank eight to 12 glasses of water a day burned more fat than those who only drank four.
Related: The ACV-Powered Morning Drink That Supports Weight Loss
Print This Now! Full-Body Circuit With Weights
Circuit workouts are a great technique to keep things interesting and bust boredom at the gym, and it doesn't hurt that this workout gets your heart rate up while building strong muscles! Learn how to do all the moves in the three circuits, and then get the printable poster of the workout here. This way you can always have it on hand at the gym.
Burn It Up: 20-Minute 200-Calorie Blasting Workout
If your schedule is feeling tight, don't skip your workout. We have made a quick calorie-burning workout just for you. In only 20 minutes, you can burn up to 200 calories. So grab a set of five-pound dumbbells if you have them, press play, and work it.
When to Eat Your Largest Meal During the Day If You're Trying to Lose Weight
When you're on a mission to lose weight, what you choose to eat needs to line up with your goals. However, according to Break the Weight founder and health coach Ricki Friedman, how and when you eat is just as crucial. If you tend to eat light all day and chow down on a large dinner, you might be standing in the way of your success.
According to Ricki, your largest meal of the day should fall between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. After a large midday meal, you have an opportunity to go for a walk, work out, or move in some capacity that will support your digestion, but after a large late dinner, people tend to sit down to relax and go to bed on a full stomach - not a good idea if you want to wake up full of energy with healthy digestion, said Ricki.
Related: The Easiest Way to Prevent Overeating
This plan may sound easy enough, but Ricki explained, "It's often more of an emotional challenge than a physical challenge for people to make dinner light. Most of us use dinner as an activity for us to do when we get home out of loneliness or boredom, so you'll need some structure or alternative activities to fall back on!" Ricki's number-one activity she suggests to clients? Take a 20-minute walk every night after dinner. An evening walk supports healthy digestion, takes your focus off of food, and gives you an opportunity to check in with your emotional state.
If you're not sure what constitutes a light dinner, Ricki's only hard-and-fast rule is to make it less than 400 calories. Here are four options she recommends to her clients:
- Four ounces of salmon with grilled veggies and half a sweet potato
- Vegetable or lentil soup
- Half a cup of quinoa with lots and lots of veggies
- Half a veggie or beef burger with grilled vegetables
"If you want something like pizza, only have one piece or two, and then take your nighttime walk. It's not about taking all the things you love away from yourself; it's about learning how to have them, so you can go to bed feeling good, light, and satisfied," said Ricki.
Related: Before and After: The 1 Change That Helped This Trainer Lose 15 Pounds Fast
The Short and Sweet Yoga Sequence You Can Do Every Morning
Regardless of how I slept the night before or what's on my agenda for the day, I always feel more relaxed and focused after even a handful of minutes on my mat. Start your day out on a centered and strong note with this short yoga sequence that energizes your body and brain. Wake up five minutes earlier in the morning, and reap the benefits all day long.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Kat Borchart
Cohabitation Conundrum: How to Eat Healthy When Others Don't
You may have the best intentions of sticking to a healthy meal plan, but when temptations arise in the comfort of your home, it's 10 times harder to do. Nutrition and healthy living guru Cynthia Sass MPH, RD, tells us that many of her clients go through this exact scenario, but that there are ways to make sure it doesn't get in the way of a relationship or healthy diet.
Sass's first piece of advice is to "remember why you're on this path." Instead of focusing on sheer weight management, consider how healthy eating improves quality of life on a day-to-day basis. Sass explains that when her clients stick to their healthy meal plans, "it translates into a better mood, they don't feel as stressed out, and they feel more calm and confident when they're at work or in stressful situations." But Sass also recognizes that compromise is a necessity in these situations. "Whether it's your roommate or it's your partner, find ways to eat similar foods together, but you don't have to eat exactly the same thing or the same amount."
- Similar ingredients, different dish: Sass says that in her own relationship at home with her husband, compromises are made. "We can't [always] split a meal, so when we cook together we'll have similar ingredients, but make different things. I have to make peace with the fact that we don't have the same needs, or maybe we're not on the same page as far as our goal." For example, on taco night, Sass enjoys a healthy taco salad with avocado and pico de gallo, while her husband goes for a big burrito with all the fixings.
- Takeout from two places: If your partner or roommate is going for a loaded pizza, Sass suggests going for Japanese food or something a little healthier. "It's the same price!" she says. "The only difference is you're just two deliveries instead of one." If you're not sure where to start when it comes to a takeout menu, be sure to check out all of our healthy takeout tips for everything from Italian to Indian.
- Focus on quality time: Don't allow mealtime to be the main course in your relationship. "A lot of people focus on eating together, but really why people spend time together doesn't have anything to do with eating; it has to do with sharing thoughts and spending quality time with people that you care about. We get programmed from a young age to think that eating is a way of bonding and it can be, but really just spending time with someone is the most important." Take the focus off food and consider a new relationship ritual that's healthier. Who knows? Maybe your old foodie buddy will be your new fit partner in crime.
A Guide For Detoxing After Halloween
Even the healthiest among us can't help but get into the Halloween fun, and while everything's good in moderation, sometimes a night of temptation means going overboard (no regrets!). Whether you've snacked on trick-or-treating purchases too much or know you have a big weekend ahead, here are some ideas to detox when you're ready to get back on track.
Related: Clean Up Your Diet With 5 Detox Dinners
- Drink more water: Make water consumption a priority the day after your Halloween festivities; not only will it help flush out all those indulgent decisions (that is, it'll help your hangover), but it'll give you more energy to tackle the day.
- Break the sugar addiction: Eating a lot of sugar will only make you crave it more, so your night of fun-sized celebration may be leading to mindless reaching for your candy stash the rest of the week. Ready for a challenge? If you're craving sweets, take celebrity trainer Jackie Warner's advice: take five days to wean yourself off sugar and refined carbs by eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies instead. If forgoing sugar altogether seems impossible (especially in light of leftover holiday treats), check out our tips for reducing your sugar cravings.
- Fight fatigue: Whether you hosted a Halloween party or spent an exhausting couple of hours corralling trick-or-treaters, the holiday can eat into your sleep time. To make sure you don't feel tired all day, fill your diet with these fatigue-fighting foods, and make a point to go to sleep early tonight - you may benefit from recovery sleep so you don't feel overly tired for the rest of the week.
- Eat nourishing foods: You've had enough of the processed stuff - now it's time to eat real food. Start with a nutrient-packed smoothie, go for a kale salad for lunch, and a spicy carrot detox ginger soup for dinner. Eating a produce-rich meal plan will help your body crave the good instead of all the bad.
- Move more: Get your metabolism going - and sweat out all the bad stuff - with an intense workout; if you can't bear the thought of exercise, go for a walk or do a few of these detoxifying yoga poses to get things moving.
You Will Relate So Hard to This Woman at Her First Indoor Cycling Class
If you've been to a SoulCycle class, you know what to expect: a dark room, music on blast, and one happy, chatty instructor who peddles at superhuman speed while you desperately try to keep up. The new Hulu show Casual knows your struggle; in it, first-timer Valerie's facial expressions - and off-the-beat pedaling - say it all. If you've ever been the newbie in an indoor cycling class, you'll be able to relate to this hilarious clip.
Related: Before You Sit in the Front Row at SoulCycle, Read This
Celebrate the End of Daylight Saving With an Hour-Long Workout
Get ready to fall back and gain an hour this Sunday - it's much better than springing forward and losing an hour, don't you think? This year when you turn your clocks back, make the most of it - don't just go about your day as usual. Wake up in the morning when you normally would, and spend your freebie hour working out. Gone is your excuse about not having enough time to exercise. Check out how many calories you'll burn sweating it out for an hour!
| Exercise | Calories Burned |
|---|---|
| Cardio kickboxing class | 597 |
| Cycling at a moderate pace (14 to 15.9 mph) | 540 |
| Elliptical | 435 |
| Hiking | 387 |
| Raking leaves | 216 |
| Pilates | 144 |
| Running at a 10-minute-per-mile pace (6 mph) | 540 |
| Running at a 9-minute-per-mile pace (6.7 mph) | 600 |
| Soccer | 378 |
| Indoor cycling class | 413 |
| Swimming | 594 |
| Walking at a 15-minute-per-mile pace (4 mph) | 243 |
| Yoga class (fast-paced) | 269 |
*All calculations are based on a 130-pound woman.
samedi 31 octobre 2015
5 Reasons People Give Up on Losing Weight (and How to Overcome Them)
Whether it's the Freshman 15, breakup weight, baby weight, or can't-stay-away-from-the-dessert-cart weight, losing those extra pounds is not as easy as putting them on. It doesn't matter if you have five or 105 pounds to lose, here are the top reasons most people abandon their weight-loss goals, and what you can do to prevent it from happening.
It's Taking Too Long
Just as those pounds seemed to slowly creep on, it also takes time to slowly shake them off; coming to terms with this will make it easier to stick with your plan. Know that to safely lose weight and keep it off, you'll only drop one to two pounds a week, so do the math and you'll have an idea of how much time it'll be before you're near your goal weight. Find ways to celebrate your smaller goals and it'll help keep you on track.
I'm Hungry
Weight loss comes down to simple math: calories in cannot exceed the amount of calories out. If you choose high-calorie foods, you'll only be able to have a few bites, which will leave your belly empty and unsatisfied. Eat smarter by choosing low-calorie foods like vegetables, high-fiber foods like whole grains, and foods with high water content like fruit. These foods will keep you feeling full, preventing hunger pangs.
Related: Why a Little Hunger Is OK When Dieting
I Miss My Favorite Foods
French fries, pizza, burgers, chocolate cake, ice cream - it's hard not to spend every minute thinking about the foods you shouldn't eat. Plain and simple: diets don't work. You can't sustain an eating plan that is too restrictive. Of course, you won't lose weight on a diet of doughnuts alone, so eat healthy most of the time and allow yourself a little splurging to prevent feeling deprived; or find healthier ways to enjoy the foods you crave, like with this pizza quinoa polenta instead of a regular slice from the pizzeria, or this three-ingredient chocolate ice cream that's completely dairy-free.
I Hate Exercising
If you don't love it, find something you do. Maybe running on the treadmill isn't for you, but try giving that indoor cycling class a shot. Maybe you can't stand working out alone, and need to join a gym to get involved in some group classes. Or maybe exercise can't seem like exercise at all, and you'd rather go for an adventurous hike or mountain bike ride. If you look forward to your workouts, they're more likely to happen. Also be sure to mix up your workouts, because even though you're obsessed with Zumba, you don't want to go so often that you get burnt out.
I've Tried Everything and Nothing Works
When you're eating right and exercising and the scale isn't budging, it's understandable why that frustration would make a person give up. There are many reasons why what you're doing may not offer results, such as not doing the right kind of exercise, not exercising enough, overdoing it on healthy foods that are high in calories, or miscounting calories. Seek out the help of a professional like a nutritionist or a personal trainer, or sign up for a weight-loss program that offers support. Experts in weight loss can offer tips and shed some light about what mistakes you might unknowingly be making that are sabotaging your weight-loss goals.
Related: 100 Simple Ways to Lose Weight
58 Healthy Chocolate Recipes You'll Fall Head Over Heels in Love For
Chocolate doesn't have to be a guilty pleasure. In fact, it can be downright good for you! This Valentine's Day, enjoy the decadence without guilt; check out these recipes that will satisfy chocolate cravings without the added calories.
- Additional reporting by Brinton Parker
Source: Lizzie Fuhr, Leta Shy, Jenny Sugar
Transform Your Abs With This 2-Week Crunch Challenge
It's time for another workout challenge, and this one is all about the abs. Perfect for those new to strength training, it's short and sweet - all it takes is a few minutes each day for the next two weeks and you're sure to notice stronger and more defined abs. Instead of doing basic crunches, this challenge involves five crunch variations to target different areas of your midsection.
Here are instructions for the five different variations followed by a 14-day plan to get you all the way to 100. It's not advised to skip right to day 14 (if you want to be able to laugh the next day without rolling over in pain), so follow the plan and adjust it as needed according to your schedule and ability level. Here's printable version to help keep you on track.
Related: Try Our 30-Day Squat Challenge
Hate Running But Do It Anyway? Then You'll Love These Quotes
If you hate running, but you do it anyway, you'll totally relate to this.
Heartfelt Response to "Anna Rexia" Costume From Someone Who's Actually Lived the Nightmare
There are some gory and distasteful Halloween costumes out there, but this one of "Anna Rexia" is absolutely offensive.
Making a joke about this devastating eating disorder is completely insensitive, and two years ago, Jessi Davin, a 26-year-old woman from Florida, wrote a powerful response. Diagnosed with anorexia at age 19, she battled with it for four years. In her blog post, she posted photos of herself in the hospital with the caption, "Real sexy, huh? This is "Anna Rexia's" real monstrous face."
She also wrote, "Wanna dress up like an Anorexic? All it takes is:
- 4 years of hospitalization
- A nasogastric feeding-tube because you've starved yourself so much that your body doesn't recognize food as a good thing and tries to attack itself.
- Re-Feeding Syndrome, which can kill you.
- A father crying and pleading on his knees begging for you to get help
- A mother who cries every time she sees you because you look and SMELL like death.
- Almost every major organ in your body failing.
- And if you don't get help like I do, or even if you do, a coffin. Because I've lost more friends to this eating disorder then anything I've ever faced."
She wants people to know that she almost died from this mental illness, and it shouldn't be marketed as a sexy costume. Jessi concluded the post with, "Want to dress as "Anna Rexia"? Just go as a Vampire, or a Zombie. Because 1/3 of us are dead."
It's difficult to fully recover from anorexia, even with treatment, you can fall back into old habits. Jessi was recently married and is happily 27 weeks pregnant with a baby girl. Yay! Unfortunately, she's back in treatment and staying in the hospital due to her high-risk pregnancy, doing everything she can for her daughter's well-being.
@RingsideNews Severe morning sickness caused me to relapse into my anorexia. But I'm fighting hard for me & baby! http://pic.twitter.com/BvpCS0js0i
- Jessi Davin (@jessithebuckeye) July 20, 2015
Jessi told BuzzFeed, "If my post helps spread awareness for anorexia and other eating disorders and helps those who don't understand maybe comprehend just a little bit more, then I've accomplished what I set out to do."
In the Hospital, but Baby Scarlett and I are still all ready for the game! 27 weeks! GO BUCKS! #OhioState #GoBucks http://pic.twitter.com/saPA6rKc8T
- Jessi Davin (@jessithebuckeye) October 17, 2015
Tone Your Tush With This Yoga Sequence
We all know that yoga can increase your flexibility, but it turns out that many poses work your butt, too. If your backside could use a little tightening, try this yoga sequence. Work through the entire series on your right side first, and then repeat on the left side.
The 13 Worst Fitness Instructors Ever
If back-to-school time has inspired you to get more serious about your workouts and you're a hit-the-gym-for-a-class kind of girl, I'm sure you've experienced your fair share of fitness instructors - some good, and some not so good. And then there's this group . . .
The Flirt
This person thinks everyone wants to date him or her; they're all touchy-feely, winking left and right, and giving away their phone number like class is happy hour. And they never get the hint that you're not interested.
The High and Mighty
We get it. You're great at what you do, and people love you for it. Please get off your pedestal and come down to sweat with the rest of us.
The Insane Hard-Ass
This teacher is so crazy-intense, you wonder if you walked into an actual boot camp by accident. Your body shakes, your sweat is pooling on the floor, and she makes you do an extra set. And don't you dare reach for your reusable bottle - water is for wusses!
The Singer
Oooh, I love this song, who sings it?! Beyoncé, you say? Let's keep it that way.
The Screamer
This teacher believes that motivation is measured by decibels in their voice - the louder they scream, the more reps you'll do. But we really don't need you to do that the entire 60-minute class, thanks.
The Oversharer
There's a fine line between connecting with your students and sharing information you'd only share with your doctor, your mom, or your BFF. Sorry, but no, I don't want to hear about your bathroom issues or any other issues for that matter.
The Show-Off
Inspiration is one thing, but when we're struggling to get through 20 squats and you're like, "Look how many I can do while holding this 20-pound medicine ball above my head," we secretly wish that ball would fall on your head.
The All-Up-in-Your-Space
Helpful adjustments are always appreciated, but it's totally creepy when you walk by and lay a lingering hand on me every two minutes. Also - that's my boob, not my shoulder.
The Dork
It's bad enough that he's embarrassing himself up there with those awful moves, but what's even worse is he wants you to follow along.
The Stinker
Stinky breath, stinky cologne, stinky I-know-you-haven't-done-laundry-in-weeks gym clothes - it all stinks.
The Doesn't-Practice-What-They-Preach
We don't expect you to do 100 push-ups without a break, but you probably shouldn't let everyone see you down a Snickers bar and Coke before class.
The Late Bloomer
We all struggle to get to class on time, but we don't expect the teacher to be later than us.
The Walking Cold
No cold or flu keeps you from class, but we wish it would. Really.
Feel Instantly Inspired to Exercise With These Celeb Instagram Pics
Some days it's easy, but other times keeping up with your healthy lifestyle can feel like a serious struggle - and we'll take whatever healthy inspiration we can get! If you're in need of a push out the door and into the gym, check out the awesome Instagram action that some of our favorite healthy celebrities recently shared. From Ellie Goulding's punching skills to Bar Refaeli doing headstands, these snaps will motivate you to exercise and stay healthy in a fresh, fun way this weekend.
We Interrupt Your Daily Grind of a Life For This Uplifting Video
Ever feel like you're constantly running around, always doing, always striving to be better, prettier, thinner, or more successful, and days are just passing you by? It's time to stop and heed the advice of these wise elderly women. They've been where you are now, so as they look back on their lives, this is what they'd tell their younger selves about how to truly find happiness and get the most out of life. Get the tissues ready!
Related: Health Advice I Wish I Could Have Given to My 20-Year-Old Self
Feel Sore Tomorrow With This 30-Minute Upper-Body Workout
For toned arms and a sculpted upper body, dumbbell moves are such an effective way to train that after consistently doing this 30-minute workout a few times a week, it's likely that you'll notice a difference in both your strength and muscle definition. This video workout is broken up into three 10-minute videos that combine dumbbell exercises and bodyweight moves - get ready to feel the burn. It's best to have two pairs of dumbbells on hand - a light set and heavy set - ranging between three and 10 pounds.
The Best Habits For Losing Belly Fat
Looking your best begins with feeling strong and confident in your body. Regular exercise and a healthy eating plan will help you feel your most gorgeous, but for those days when you feel like you want a little extra help, these flat-belly tips could be just what you need. We've compiled a few smart habits that will help you debloat, detox, and feel like your sleekest self: pin or print this infographic for reference.
Want more debloating tips? Check out our 21-Day Flat-Belly Challenge, a smart workout plan paired with fun belly-blasting tips and fat-burning recipe ideas for each day.
Related: Want a Flat Belly? This Smoothie Will Help Get You There
25 Must-Know Tips For Runners
If you've been itching to take up running, there's no time like the present! Keep these running tips in mind the next time you head out for a confident and effective workout.
vendredi 30 octobre 2015
13 Last-Minute Costume Ideas Using Your Workout Clothes
You probably have an awesome Halloween costume hiding in your closet and don't even know it. Instead of going out and dropping bank on a costume, use your workout gear as inspiration. Check out these suggestions for fun, easy, and cheap fitness-inspired costumes to wear this Halloween. Best of all, almost all of these costumes have elements to them that any fitness fanatic already owns.
- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb
You'll Be So Inspired by What This Woman Looks Like Now After Her Battle With Anorexia
Support and motivation go hand in hand when it comes to losing weight, but the same can also be said for gaining weight. For those who suffer with anorexia, like 37-year-old Rachael Farrokh, the acceptance and guidance from those around them can contribute dramatic weight transformations. The 5'7" woman used to weigh 40 pounds and was so weak she could barely speak. All that changed, however, when she created a GoFundMe account to help her raise money for treatment. Her plea to the public didn't go unheard; she was able to raise nearly $200,000 to pay for her hospital bills and now she's gained back most of the weight she had lost.
"I have a huge family - it's called the world. They embraced me with one big hug!" Rachael said to NBC.
Now the determined activist plans to help raise awareness about the impact of eating disorders, saying she will join other families in rallying for Congress to implement insurance coverage of inpatient care for people with eating disorders. "I have so many people backing me now and I have a platform to actually create this awareness so to sit on the sidelines is impossible for me."
How Hummus Helps You Lose Weight
When it comes to having a healthy fridge, staying stocked with low-calorie, high-nutrient foods makes eating right an easy choice. That's why we love keeping ours stocked with hummus. Here's why the condiment classic can help you drop pounds.
- It's a low-calorie substitute: Who needs mayonnaise (90 calories per tablespoon) when a dollop of hummus (27 calories per tablespoon for a basic hummus recipe) on your sandwich satisfies just as well? The creamy spread also works well to quiet dip cravings or as a salad dressing substitute to help you shave calories in your daily meals.
- It keeps you full: Made from chickpeas, hummus is a great source of protein and fiber, both of which will help keep you feeling full. Adding hummus to your favorite healthy meal will help give your body sustained energy for your workouts or will keep you from reaching for junk food when your stomach starts grumbling in the afternoon. In fact, a small study even found that people who ate more chickpeas in their diet ended up eating less low-fiber, high-fat foods - and ended up losing more weight because of it.
- It's easy to make: It's well known that homemade food helps you keep pounds in check, since you know exactly what's in your meals. Luckily, not only is making a batch of hummus simple to make - just throw your ingredients in a blender - but also, the versatile condiment lends itself to many different flavor profiles to keep your taste buds from becoming bored. Check out a few of our favorite healthy hummus recipes to get inspired!
Snickers, Reese's, or M&M's! Find Out What 100 Calories Really Looks Like
Although you may shudder to enter a holiday season overflowing with sweets, Halloween candy might just be a tiny blessing in disguise. The small "fun size" bars and packets offer up controlled serving sizes, giving you a tiny taste of the sweet you crave without going overboard. Since portion control and moderation are both key when enjoying Halloween candy, here's a little visual to help you see exactly what 100 calories of your favorites looks like.
21 Effortlessly Beautiful Ballerina Photos You Won't Be Mentally Prepared For
If there is one thing we remember from Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan it's that becoming a professional ballerina is a grueling, beautiful journey. Not everyone can do it, and those who do make it become an inspiration to aspiring dancers everywhere. While we tend to picture ballerinas in tutus and elegant costumes all the time, the reality is all the dancers spend their time in tights in the studio six hours a day, if not more, perfecting their pirouette and croisé. The countless hours of training and stretching their muscles to their limits proves that ballet is not only an art, but also a sport.
And the best part is that the artistry can be appreciated by anyone. If you follow the Ballerina Project on social media, then you know exactly what we're talking about. If not, after looking through the photos below, you'll hit "follow" immediately. The project, created by photographer Dane Shitagi, is a series of photos featuring ballerinas and their craft in real-life environments like train stations, sidewalks, and even on the ledge of a roof. The dancers, who come from companies like the American Ballet Theatre (where Misty Copeland became its first African-American principal dancer) and New York City Ballet, bring their own effortless style and athleticism to the photos, and pretty much every image so far has left us in awe. Just take a look at some of the effortless snaps ahead.
Related:
- If You Thought Barre Workouts Were Hard, This Clip Will Leave You Speechless
- A Look at What 1 Professional Ballerina Eats All Day
- This Professional Ballerina's Workout Might Surprise You
These 10 Secret Diet Confessions Are All Too Relatable
If you've ever been on a diet, you'll relate to these anonymous (and hilarious) diet confessions, uploaded to the Whisper secret-sharing app. Commiserate, relate, and vow never to diet again with these tips that will help you ditch the diet for good.
This Is the Diet to Go on If You Want to Lose Weight (According to Harvard Researchers)
If you want to lose weight, what's on your plate is often more important than the minutes you spend in the gym. And if you want to see the most change, a new study from Harvard says you should be cutting carbs, not fat.
Related: Low-Carb Dinner Recipes You'll Want to Add to Your Rotation
For the study, published in PLoS One, researchers from Harvard and Brigham and Women's Hospital reviewed 53 randomized trials of over 68,000 patients who had been assigned to either low-fat or low-carb diets. They found that low-carb diets were consistently better at helping patients lose weight than low-fat diets; the participants on the low-carb diets lost 2.5 pounds more than those on low-fat diets, with the average weight loss among all groups at about six pounds.
This latest study on the weight-loss benefits of a low-carb diet adds further evidence that if you want to lose weight, ditching bread - not olive oil - can help you see success. Another recent study, for example, showed that dieters who ate fewer than 40 grams of carbohydrates per day lost about eight pounds more than dieters who were put on a low-fat diet. Other studies have shown that high-carb diets may be the real heart-disease culprit, not saturated fat. All in all, this new review is a good reminder that if you want to lose weight, you should choose a diet rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and fresh produce. Of course, not all fats are created equal - find out which healthy fats you should be incorporating into your diet here.
You Won't Believe What This Woman's Abs Can Do With 9 Quarters
Belly dancers have a uniquely mesmerizing way of moving their tummies, but this? Wow. Just wait until you see the amazing ab control on this woman. Can't. Stop. Watching. BRB, finding nine quarters . . .
Every Little Bit Counts: The Habits That Helped Charlene Drop 100 Pounds
Our next Before & After success story, Charlene, started her weight-loss journey after an "aha moment" where she realized just how many pounds had crept up on her over the years. Now, not only is she almost 100 pounds lighter, but she's also a fitness force, constantly trying new workouts and motivating her friends to do the same. Read her inspiring story below!
Charlene: Before
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start?
Charlene Bazarian: My weight gain, like many women experience, had been gradual: a few pounds in college, a few more in law school, and then after I got married, got pregnant, and after I had my first son, I hit an OMG number of 208 pounds. I had treated myself to a day of beauty at the spa before my son's christening and was mortified when I had to return to the desk and ask the receptionist if they had a larger robe, as the one-size-fits-all robe was lying. That was my "aha moment."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
CB: I joke that I discovered weight training like some people find religion. Any other time I had tried to work out, I had only tried cardio-based workouts and found weight training was truly the device I needed to make changes to my body. I now mix in weight training daily to some cardio and also some flexibility workouts like yoga and gyrotonics, which have been great to deal with some lower-back issues. I've also been taking Latin and ballroom dance lessons and just love it!
Charlene: Before
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
CB: I try to consider myself an active person. I start each morning with 10 minutes of yoga, 10 minutes of ab/core work, and then 25 minutes of various weight training, hitting different muscles on different days. Later in the day, I will get in some cardio with either a fast walk, bike ride, or some cardio equipment. I made myself a general rule that if I want to watch a favorite TV program, I'll put it in the DVR and then watch it on my exercise bike. Once a week I work out with a personal trainer, as you truly never push yourself as hard as you do with a trainer. In addition, I try to hit 10,000 steps a day and 20 flights of stairs on my Fitbit. I also try to plan social activities that are activity-based, whether it's dancing, a bike ride, or some Sunday mornings a friend and I will jog stadium steps at the local high school.
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
CB: I try to mix up my workouts to keep it fresh and interesting. I'll try a Zumba class, gyrotonics, a hot-yoga class, and have an amazing library of home workout DVDs to keep myself interested and my muscles guessing what's coming next. My favorite DVDs are by Cathe Friedrich; I find her workouts rival my sessions with my personal trainer!
Charlene: After
PS: How much weight have you lost?
CB: I lost 96 pounds and have kept it off.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
CB: After I lost the weight, a few girl friends messaged me on Facebook asking me how I did it, and I began giving them advice on what worked for me. I began commenting if they'd check in at restaurants, about what they were ordering, or they'd text me and ask me what to order. I would try to encourage them to bust any excuses why they couldn't work out. As they began losing weight, several of their friends started messaging me as well, and I created a Facebook page dedicated to giving diet/fitness tips and sharing healthy recipes and overall fitness inspiration called FBJ Fit. I know my journey has encouraged a lot of people, so I try to live up to it by continuing to make the right choices. I think having been on both sides of the spectrum gives me an appreciation for the struggles of one trying to lose weight and the work and effort put into being a fit person. I think everyone has a vision of where they want to be physically and mentally, but getting there can be a complicated road. Through social media, without any sort of judgment and by using nurturing but firm advice, I try to help others set a strategic plan for achieving their own fitness goals. I feel tremendous joy in coaching others by sharing information and encouragement that I wish I had available to me when I began my own journey. I try to use this persona to be a champion for living out loud. I've learned many lessons the hard way and from repeated failures, but I'm thrilled that I'm no longer on the sidelines of life!
Charlene: After
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
CB: I got an accurate scale and entered my weight every few days on a little spreadsheet I created. I tried to set small minigoals, as it seemed overwhelming to consider such a large number of pounds to lose. I also have a friendly competition with my lifelong best friend; to "keep it honest," we text each other our weight once a week. Now that I'm at my goal range, I give myself three pounds and buckle down when I'm out of range.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
CB: Breakfast is almost always a Luna Bar, a cup of coffee, and some cran-water (100-percent cranberry juice diluted with water, lime juice, and a smidgen of Stevia). Other days, I'll choose two scrambled eggs and some sautéed kale for breakfast. Around 10:00 a.m., I have a Muscle Milk Organic Shake. For lunch, it varies; sometimes it's a large bowl of broccoli slaw or salad with some tuna or grilled chicken. Some days, it's a bowl of "fat flush" soup (ground turkey and lots of veggies in a tomato base - one of my favorites!), or some days it's oatmeal with some whey protein and fresh berries. Midafternoon snack can be a brown-rice cake with some peanut butter and banana or some almonds. For dinner, I like to stick to lean proteins (chicken breast, fish, bison), complex carbs (sweet potato, brown rice), green veggies (kale, salads, and broccoli), and healthy fat choices (avocado and salmon).
PS: What's the range of calories you eat per day?
CB: It is probably 1500-1600 calories. Since losing weight, I don't count them as much.
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
CB: At any time in my fridge, you'll find broccoli slaw, kale, Luna Bars, Muscle Milk Organic Protein Shakes, eggs, a variety of things for salads, and berries. The cabinets usually will almost always have steel-cut oatmeal, a variety of nuts, and quinoa. Some healthy snacks I treat myself to are RiceWorks Sweet Chili Brown Rice Chips (they're like gourmet Doritos! Delicious!) with some guacamole.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
CB: I always (always) try to check the menus online before I go out to eat, so I can plan ahead what choices I want to make. It's easy to get caught up in the hubbub of social activity to order something that "sounds good." I also try to choose restaurants that offer overall healthy choices. Seasons 52 and Legal Seafood and sushi restaurants are often my suggestions for dining out. I also send the waitress away with the bread basket and "order like Sally" (from When Harry Met Sally) and ask for light on any oils, double veggies instead of a starchy carb side. I always take good care of the server to show my appreciation!
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
- Remind yourself, "You're no busier than a fit person." We're all busy.
- Make your workouts like brushing your teeth, something you just do without question.
- Always plan: keep a Luna in your pocketbook for emergencies, check the menus online before heading out to a restaurant, bring a healthy treat you enjoy when attending a party.
- As a general rule, unless it's cauliflower or a White Chocolate Luna Bar, if it's white, don't eat it.
- Think of food as a choice and not as a reward or a punishment. You don't "deserve" a decadent dessert, nor are you "depriving" yourself if you don't have it.
- Don't get comfortable with some success. There's no finish line or touchdown dance. As I was losing weight, and every time I went down a size, I would only buy one pair of jeans, one pair of tan pants, and one pair of black pants. I wouldn't spend a lot, and I would tell myself, "Don't invest in this size, as you're not going to be staying here for long."
- BLTs count: bites, licks, and tastes add up. And sips do, too (so try your best not to drink your calories!).
- Recognize the saboteurs. You'll need to be able to resist the "just this once," "just a taste or bite won't hurt you," and even the "you're no fun anymore" from some of the people closest to you.
- Switch up your routines regularly, and chose something you genuinely enjoy! I love taking Latin and ballroom dance lessons, running stadium steps with my girlfriend on Sunday mornings, going for bike rides with my boys, and taking walks with my 85-year-old neighbor (she's my inspiration, and I can barely keep up with her!).
- Eat foods in their lowest common denominator: think orange, not orange juice, and shop the outside aisles of the supermarket; it's where the least processed foods are.
jeudi 29 octobre 2015
Quinoa Getting Too Expensive? The Gluten-Free Grain You Should Be Eating Instead
Your eyes and wallet are not deceiving you - quinoa prices are at an all-time high. The longtime staple of the Andean people has reached hippie-crack status of the health-food set. And while it may be hard to believe that another seed can replace this nutritional powerhouse, millet might just be up for the fight. What's to love about millet besides how good it is for the body? It's easy to prepare, affordable, and, unlike quinoa, it's free from complicated environmental and social quandaries.
First things first: despite being a favorite choice for bird feeders, millet is not just for parakeets. Still grossed out? Just a reminder: those chia seeds you eat are the same ones sprouting out of someone's terracotta pet figurine (and we've all come to terms with that). Like chia seeds, millet ranks high when it comes to nutrition. A good source of protein, iron, B vitamins, and fiber, millet is also gluten-free, making it a whole-grain alternative for anyone suffering from wheat intolerance. Numerous studies also show that millet helps regulate blood sugar - goodbye, sugary cravings! - and is high in antioxidants. All in all, it's a great whole food that supports weight loss, weight maintenance, sustained energy, and heart health.
Prepare (and use) millet in the same way as you would quinoa or brown rice (two parts water to one part grain). While millet has a mild, slightly nutty flavor on its own, the fluffy seed easily takes on the flavors of the dish you cook it with - and goes with just about anything! Use it in a salad, serve it alongside a curry, or top with your favorite healthy stir-fry.
Mountain Climbers: The Move That Does It All
If you're a fan of exercises that work your body without machines, weights, or equipment, try doing mountain climbers! This exercise works the lower body and the core and is a great form of cardio. Learn how to do the complete move below.
- Start in a traditional plank - shoulders over hands and weight on just your toes.
- With your core engaged, bring your right knee forward under your chest, with the toes just off the ground. Return to your basic plank. Switch legs, bringing the left knee forward.
- Keep switching legs and begin to pick up the pace until it feels a little like running in place in a plank position.
- Continue "running" in your plank for one minute.
Fit tip: for a stint of cardio during weight workouts, use this exercise as an active break in between exercises or reps.
What Happened to This Girl After Wearing Her Halloween Costume Contacts Will Freak You Out
A 17-year-old girl has become partially blind after wearing nonprescribed contact lenses she bought from the mall. Leah Carpenter and her group of friends dressed up as zombies for Halloween, and she didn't think anything of putting in the contact lenses that came with her costume until she woke up the next day with "swollen and red" eyes. According to her parents, the lens had ripped out a top layer of her cornea.
"I missed out on homecoming. My school work is really behind," Carpenter said to ABC. "My vision is not going to be 100%. I have a long road."
Wearing nonprescription contacts, especially ones from dubious sources, can be dangerous. According to the FDA, you should never buy contact lenses of any kind from street vendors, salons, Halloween stores, beach shops, or the Internet without a prescription. The FDA also stressed that contact lenses are not "one size fits all," and buying them from any of the places listed could lead to dangerous consequences, including blindness.
"They are a medical device and they require a prescription. To buy or sell them without a prescription is illegal," Special Agent Lorin Alaine said. And if you do have prescribed lenses, there are plenty of measures you can take to make sure you don't suffer from infections or any other future eye problems.
So if you're thinking about changing your eye color for Halloween or for fun, the short answer is: don't. Risking your eye for a cool photo is simply not worth it.
"I wish I never did it, to be honest," Carpenter added.
Why Is White Rice So Much Unhealthier Than Brown Rice?
It's been about six years now that I haven't been able to eat gluten. Through trial and error, after finally cutting out bread, pastas, cakes, pizza, beer, and more, the tumultuous stomach tailspins stopped. Brown rice became my savior, since I was easily able to add it to many dishes and I was able to make the switch to brown rice pasta, brown rice bread, brown rice crackers, and more (and no, contrary to belief, it doesn't taste like cardboard!).
I like to have a glass half full outlook on life, so when I learned that my croissant-obsessed days were over, I got creative in the kitchen, real creative. And not only that, but what I learned is that staying away from white rice and its cohorts is actually much better for me healthwise! Compared to white rice, brown rice is light years ahead in terms of nutritional value. Did you know that if you eat just two servings of brown rice a week, you can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, while eating white rice on a regular basis increases the chances of type 2 diabetes by 20 percent? Here's a little tip for all you sushi lovers: If a restaurant doesn't offer brown rice sushi, ask them if they can make your sushi without the rice. Tell them you're not a stickler if it falls apart and they'll usually oblige.
White rice is what's inside brown rice after the brown rice is polished down, removing the bran and the beneficial nutrients.
Nutrients removed in the milling process include 67 percent of the vitamin B3, 80 percent of B1 vitamins, 90 percent of the vitamin B6, half the maganese and phosphorus, 60 percent of the iron, and all of the fiber and essential fatty acids. That's why white rice comes "enriched" with B vitamins and iron.
Here's the nutritional breakdown of both white rice and brown rice, which clearly illustrates how brown rice is in a league of its own when it comes to being packed full of nutrients.
| 1 Cup Serving | White Rice | Brown Rice |
| Calories | 169 | 216 |
| Maganese | 0.5 (mg) | 1.76 (mg) |
| Selenium | 9.7 (mcg) | 19.11 (mcg) |
| Magnesium | 8.7 (mg) | 83.85 (mg) |
| Potassium | 17.4 (mg) | 83.85 (mg) |
Wondering how to make the perfect pot of brown rice? This handy guide will help you.
Why I Exercise in Just My Underwear
We all have our trouble spots, and for me, it's my belly. Even before two pregnancies, I've always been a little self-conscious about that extra squishiness above my belt. I'm a full-bathing-suit-in-the-Summer, never-take-off-my-shirt-while-working-out kind of gal . . . that is until a few weeks ago.
I do yoga and strength training at home to complement my runs, and one day I wanted to try out this new move, but I was in my everyday clothes. I quickly got hot in my jeans so I just took them off. I didn't want to get my shirt all sweaty, so I took that off too. There I was, half-naked, doing plank variations with my TRX, and something shifted. Now I prefer exercising in my underwear! Here's why.
- Damn, what's that indentation? After having two kiddos, my mummy tummy is in full force. I'm proud that it grew two beautiful children, but if it could be a little smaller, that'd be awesome. When working out in just my bra and undies, I can actually see my belly - seeing the skin shows me way more than a tight-fitting tank. The other day I even started to see a little definition. I was shocked! And so psyched to know that what I've been doing is actually working. That's the best motivation right there.
- You got this! Working out with a lot of skin showing means I can see all my muscles working. Whether it's bicep curls or squats, it's motivating to see how each exercise targets each muscle. Seeing them flex pushes me to throw in an extra few reps.
- Who cares where my capris are? I can't tell you how many times I've passed on a workout because I wasted too much time trying to find an outfit. This is a no-fuss solution - just strip down and you're ready to go. I don't even wear my socks and sneakers. You won't get as sweaty, and you'll have less laundry later!
Granted I could totally get the same effect wearing a sports bra and tight shorts, but, of course, that would mean planning ahead to locate and put them on. This allows for some spontaneous exercise, because sometimes you've got to fit it in whenever you can.
Misty Copeland Motivates All of Us as One of Glamour's Women of the Year
Next month, ballerina Misty Copeland will be honored by Glamour magazine as one of its Women of the Year, and for good reason. The Under Armour athlete was just named principal ballerina by the American Ballet Theatre, the first black female in the prestigious company's 75-year history to do so. But it was her journey to her new role that just may be the most impressive. From living in a motel when she was a child to being told by a doctor that she may never dance again, Misty has had her share of struggles to make it to the top of the classical dancing world (including being told that her body was too muscular for a ballerina). What helped her get to her where she is? Her words to live by. "Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you," she shared with the magazine. Serious motivation from a seriously amazing athlete.
Related: Misty Copeland Giving Jimmy Kimmel a Ballet Lesson Is as Funny as You'd Imagine
This 2-Minute Commercial Will Change the Way You Think About Weight Loss
When you're working hard to lose weight, that goal can often become an all-consuming thought. This commercial, from Lean Cuisine, is a touching reminder that there are more important factors in life to celebrate other than obsessing over your weight. In the spot, women of all shapes and sizes talk about their most important life accomplishments, from donating bone marrow to having a baby, and all can agree there are some things in life that just can't be weighed by a scale. Like us, you'll find yourself agreeing with the powerful message.
How 1 Man Lost 24 Pounds in 1 Month on a Pizza-Only Diet
A diet where you eat pizza all day and lose weight sounds like one of those hilarious Someecards. But for Florida cyclist Matt McClellan, he's proven that a pizza diet can help you lose weight. A longtime cyclist and owner of Tour de Pizza in St. Petersburg, FL, Matt wanted his diet to be about flexibility and moderation, and he wanted it to not be so restrictive. So the "pizza diet" was born!
It's based on the "flexible diet" approach designed by nutritionist and bodybuilder Layne Norton, PhD, who's all about eating a balance of macronutrients: fats, carbs, protein, and fiber. Matt said, "Under the flexible dieting concept, there is no such thing as a 'good' or 'bad' food," and that keeping track of your macronutrients can encourage a healthier relationship with food. Layne said that the pizza diet is so successful and sustainable because "instead of diets that encourage extremism," incorporating your favorite foods into a healthy overall diet prevents cravings and feeling like you're missing out.
Related: Here's That Cauliflower Pizza Crust Everyone Keeps Talking About
Here's the breakdown of the diet: He ate 2,400 calories a day and included six total slices, which was equal to one extralarge pizza. But he didn't eat sausage and pepperoni pizza with extra cheese. On no! He chose the healthiest toppings possible to maximize nutrition. We're talking less cheese and high-fat meats and more antioxidant-rich veggies, good fats, and lean protein. Every two hours, he'd eat one slice. He also included one hour of exercise a day five times a week, alternating between cycling, swimming, and running.
After four weeks, Matt had lost 24 pounds, miraculously lowered his cholesterol from 243 to 157, and his body fat percentage reduced from almost 20 percent to nine percent. That wasn't all! He felt more powerful on his rides, had better endurance, and had faster recovery. He said, "The healthier I felt, the more inclined I was to stay active and cycle more." Matt even took his pizza diet on the road and pedaled 1,300 miles over 30 days from his Florida store to Times Square in New York, speaking to people along the way about his experiences. He said, "My intent is for people to change their perception of pizza as junk food," and here are some tips he shared on how to make your slices the healthiest possible, as he told Bicycling magazine.
Related: The Quick-to-Make Chia Pizza Crust Your Diet Needs
Crust: Go for whole-wheat and make it thin. "It gives you the fiber you need with some carbs for energy, but without having to worry about overindulging," Matt said.
Sauce: Add chopped garlic and olive oil to a traditional marinara sauce. Matt said, "Garlic is a great immunity-booster and the olive oil is rich with antioxidants."
Cheese: Keep it very light and minimal, like skim-milk mozzarella. "Less is more. You don't need a lot for flavor or texture," he said.
Toppings: Include toppings that mix protein such as lean chicken, with high amounts of antioxidant-rich green vegetables like broccoli and spinach, and finish up with slices of avocado for healthy fats.
The radical pizza diet basically encourages portion control, eating a healthy balance of protein, carbs, fiber, and healthy fats, and including regular daily exercise. And it helps you lose weight?!
Related: Quinoa Crust to Satisfy Your Gluten-Free Pizza Cravings
Get All Your Favorite POPSUGAR Shows Now on Apple TV!
Apple TV has relaunched with a new POPSUGAR TV app (exclusive to Apple TV only) within the app store!
POPSUGAR TV brings you direct access to all of POPSUGAR's original franchise series and critically acclaimed videos. Follow our irresistible programming that entertains, inspires, and delights - including mouthwatering recipes, motivating workouts, exclusive celebrity interviews, hot fashion trends, beauty tips, and so much more. With new content added regularly, you're guaranteed to find something that you love.
Tune in any time to our programming:
- Class FitSugar: Host Anna Renderer sweats alongside fitness experts and Hollywood's hottest celebrity trainers to bring you routines you can do anytime, anywhere.
- Eat the Trend: Host Brandi Milloy uncovers trending food on social media and shares how to easily create it all in your own kitchen.
- Get the Dish: Brandi Milloy translates her latest pop culture obsessions to culinary inspiration, creating easy recipes and entertaining tips.
- POPSUGAR Beauty Junkie: Host Kirbie Johnson keeps you up on beauty tips and trends with help from beauty influencers and pro makeup artists.
- POPSUGAR Rush: A lightning-fast daily show that keeps you current with all things pop culture.
- We Spy Style: Host Allison McNamara and style experts break down the latest trends and most shareable style stories.
- Seriously Distracted: This comedy is about a group of young smart ambitious women at a mediocre PR firm who are great at their jobs but completely obsessed with pop culture.
- I'm a Huge Fan: Lucky contest winners get once-in-a-lifetime chances to meet and interview their favorite stars.
- One of a Kind: Follow one lucky winner as she wins the chance to meet and be styled by her favorite designer.
- Find Your Happy: Celebrate the positivity in life and find happiness in every day.
Can Exercise Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?
Exercise is the closest thing to a magical pill since it keeps you healthy in so many ways. Aside from helping you drop pounds and look sensational sporting your tightest pants, it keeps your heart healthy, improves your mood and energy levels, keeps sickness at bay, can prevent injuries or alleviate chronic pain, and can even help you have a better night's sleep.
Working out may also help when Aunt Flo comes for her monthly visit. If you suffer from bloating or gut-wrenching cramps (dysmenorrhea) - even though you may not feel up to your normal workout - walking, swimming, or doing another type of light exercise like yoga will improve circulation to relieve painful cramps and ease digestive distress (try these yoga poses that ease cramps). The release of endorphins from exercise is also helpful in getting rid of headaches, fatigue, and your cranky, I-want-to-throw-something-at-everyone mood. Getting your sweat on may also curb your insatiable cravings for junk food and prevent monthly weight gain.
Related: Sip Away PMS Symptoms With This Chocolate Cashew Smoothie
Unfortunately, exercise can also have a negative effect on your period. If you're exercising excessively or obsessively, and have a lower percentage of body weight than is normal for your height (possibly from anorexia), your body could go into rescue mode. Working out takes a ton of energy, so in order for your body to keep up it will begin to shut down unnecessary functions to use what little energy it has to keep your basic life functions going. Since menstruation's main purpose is for reproduction, it is not vital to you and your body will turn off the function to save energy. The good news is that usually when you begin cutting down on the exercise and your body gets the nutrition and calories it needs, your periods should come back. Likewise, if your body fat percentage is much higher than the normal level for your height, periods can also stop.
Exercise and body weight aren't the only things that can affect your cycle, and a missing period isn't a disease, it's a symptom. If you're suffering from irregular or missed periods, make an appointment with your gynecologist so they can help you figure out how to get your period back.
Related: You're Not Going to Like What Experts Say to Avoid When It Comes to PMS
Here's 100 Years of the Craziest Female Fitness Trends
The female body has seen its share of fitness trends, including the still-popular yoga and the questionable Prancercise. We can't help but look back and see how fitness was for women the past century, and we also can't help but ask ourselves, "Did we really do that?"
5 Easy and Effective Dumbbell Exercises
If you're committed to seeing a change in your shape, strength training needs to be a part of your life. There's no need to throw yourself into the weight room right away, if you're a little intimidated. Instead, opt for these five easy-to-follow and effective dumbbell exercises that will help sculpt your arms and build your confidence.
13 Insanely Delicious Smoothies to Satisfy Candy Cravings
Halloween treats have their time and place, but if you feel like you can't turn around without grabbing a handful (or two) of fun-size calorie bombs, then a healthier, more satisfying option is in order. Enter these smoothies. From chocolate concoctions to frothy shakes, these nine nutrient-packed smoothies will satisfy your Halloween candy cravings.
- Additional reporting by Aemilia Madden
mercredi 28 octobre 2015
How the South Beach Diet Changed My Life
Twelve years ago, after weaning my first daughter, I decided it was time to lose the lingering baby weight. Breastfeeding had not been a weight-loss miracle for me, and now that my baby was no longer dependent on me as her primary food source, I was ready and willing to diet - something I had never really done before. The South Beach Diet had just hit the market and I rode the low-carb trend, and I will never do it again.
Living without carbs for the first two weeks of the diet, called the induction period, was particularly hellish. I had a 1-year-old; though small toddlers are loving and sweet, they are not known for their supportive qualities or sense of logic. Plus, my husband was living without carbs; he ate many a milkshake with me during my pregnancy and was also looking to get back to his prepregnancy weight. While dieting together was good for moral support, we were both awfully cranky. I have since learned that cutting out entire food groups is not necessary to lose weight. But the South Beach Diet did change my eating habits in many significant ways. Here are three elements to put into practice to lose or maintain your weight, while keeping it healthy.
Become Label Able
Knowing what is actually in your food leads to much better choices. The South Beach Diet is a quick education on the glycemic index, which basically measures how foods affect your blood sugar levels. Foods containing high amounts of sugar are higher on the index, and these foods cause blood sugar levels to spike, then drop, leaving you hungry again quite quickly. Sugar, hiding under many tricky pseudonyms on labels, is added to many foods you would never guess, like crackers and tomato sauce. So I started reading labels and looking at the amount of sugar and fiber per serving. I also started measuring out servings and quickly learned that serving sizes are much smaller than I had believed. Both were illuminating! When checking out any new product, especially ones that seem healthy, I read the label.
Whole Grains Rule
The South Beach Diet hammers home this principle: fiber delays the process of turning carbs into sugars, keeping you sated longer. It was on the South Beach Diet, during phase two when carbs are reintroduced, that I came to love whole-wheat bread. This is "love" as in, I truly prefer the flavor of whole wheat. It doesn't feel like some sort of health-food penance to eat whole-wheat bread. It's high in fiber and should be low in added sugars (you still need to read the label, though, since many brands add honey and/or molasses to whole-wheat bread). This South Beach tip has become my mantra: "the coarser and heavier the bread, the better it is for you." White bread, made with refined carbs stripped of fiber and nutrients, is really one (digestive) step away from cake. CAKE! Thinking of bread this way makes skipping the baguette before dinner really easy - who eats cake before dinner?
Here's an easy-to-follow rule that combines these two takeaways: bread should have no more than 3 grams of sugar and have at least, if not more than, 3 grams of fiber per serving.
Smart Snacking: Nuts and Hummus
Almonds and walnuts, just a handful for portion control, are still my afternoon snack of choice. Full of healthy fats, nuts are filling and can keep me full between lunch and dinner. Fat also slows down the digestive system to help keep blood sugars stable, but you need to focus on the good fats, monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs). These days I like to pair my ounce of nuts with an apple or an orange - healthy fats mixed with healthy carbs.
Before the South Beach Diet, hummus was a dish I only ate at Greek restaurants, and now it's a staple in my fridge. Hummus, made of fiber-rich chickpeas and fat-filled sesame-seed-based tahini, is a great snack. Eaten with veggies - celery, carrots, cucumber - hummus fills you up. I will admit, after reaching my goal weight with the South Beach Diet, I couldn't eat hummus for a couple of years. I burned out on it. But hummus is back as a mainstay in my life, and I make my own, which means I can control the flavor. My favorites are sweet potato hummus and antioxidant-rich Thai-inspired hummus featuring turmeric and ginger. I use hummus as a condiment (way better than mayo) or the main protein in a sandwich.
Final Thoughts
In many ways, the South Beach Diet with its focus on healthy fats was a more wholesome redo of the no-carb Atkins Diet. It was also a forerunner to the now-popular Paleo diet trend. The original South Beach Diet book, from 2003, includes recipes for spaghetti squash pasta and cauliflower mashed "potatoes" that you see today on Paleo food websites. The promise of quick weight loss on the cover of the book should have been a red flag to me - but I wanted to fit into the jeans I wore before getting pregnant! I now know the slower the weight comes off, the more sustainable the diet and healthy habits are, the more likely the weight will stay off. But I thank the diet for what it taught me, both good and bad.
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