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 13 août 2017
26 Halloween Treats That Are Cute, Not Creepy
Whether you're hosting a Halloween party, sharing treats with your officemates, or looking for a fun Fall activity, you'll want to pin a few of these festive recipes. Cute, not creepy, these treats range from ghost marshmallow treats to jack-o'-lantern cake pops and are sure to captivate your imagination.
8 Things to Do in St. Lucia That Are Off the Beaten Path
St. Lucia continues to top the charts in island destinations, and can easily be mistaken for a slice of heaven on earth. With its crystal clear cobalt-colored seas, lush emerald vegetation, and breathtaking cotton candy-color sunsets, it's a travelers (and Instagrammers!) paradise. Caribbean life is filled with plenty to do, or not do. If you choose to nap all day under the palm trees to the sound of the ocean, no judgments; I did it. But, if you want to discover far beyond the typical tourist sites such as the sulphur springs and mud baths, I will take you through the jungle, off the beaten path - all the way to paradise you go. Here are the top eight things you shouldn't miss out on on the idyllic island of Saint Lucia.
Holy Smokes, These 13 Fall Boots From Urban Outfitters Are So Damn Cute
I'm so excited for boot season that I'm creating a whole section in my closet for it. Whether you like little booties or over-the-knee stunners, Urban Outfitters has some lust-worthy picks. The retailer just put out new options in leather, suede, and a variety of colors. If you're not sure what to buy, we rounded up a selection of our favorite picks. You'll want to rock these all the way through Winter so they're smart investments. Time to shoe shop!
This Millionaire Heiress's Sheer Wedding Dress Was Straight Out of a Fairy-Tale Book
When your father is media mogul Rupert Murdoch, you better believe no expenses will be spared at your wedding. Elisabeth Murdoch married Turner Prize-winning artist Keith Tyson in a lavish wedding in Oxfordshire, England. Guests danced the night away under an impressive canopy of colorful flowers while sipping drinks from tiny tin cans that had "Keith's paint" written in gold text (an homage to the groom's work as an artist).
But while the decor was one for the books, it was the bride's sheer wedding dress that really took our breath away. The heiress wore a stunning dress with delicate 3D appliqué embroidery. She finished off her bridal look with a jewel-encrusted hair clip and dainty diamond earrings. Have a look at the fairy-tale wedding ahead.
Summery Zoodle Recipes to Keep Dinner Healthy and Light
Summer means longer days, weekend getaways, grilling-season, and, of course, the introduction of so many in-season fruits and veggies that make their way into our meals. Zucchini is one of those yummy veggies that is so versatile it can even be eaten as a pasta substitute (aka zoodle). These 15 recipes combine zoodles with other Summer produce staples that will add an extra element of freshness to dinner on those balmy nights.
11 Things You'll Only Understand If You Speak Spanglish
I grew up in a predominantly Latinx neighborhood where "pero like" was used as punctuation more often than not. Spanglish was the third language I mastered at a very young age, and while I could speak Spanish and English, nothing came close to my use of the hybrid language.
Walking the line that exists between both languages allows you to have the best of both worlds: the emotion of Spanish with the conciseness of English. Plus, it's like your own secret language . . . even if it did really get my grandma riled up every time she heard me mix the two. If you're a Spanglish speaker like me, you get it and will relate so much to the 11 situations ahead.
In "This Doesn't Look Good" News, FKA Twigs Appears to Be Getting Cozy With a Male Model
Are Robert Pattinson and FKA Twigs on the rocks? The 29-year-old singer was spotted spending time with French model Brieuc Breitenstein while vacationing in Ibiza, Spain, on Friday. The two were photographed getting kind of close while taking in the scenery (Brieuc appeared to be nuzzling into her hair), and later that evening, they were seen walking side by side in matching all-white outfits. Meanwhile, Rob added to the split rumors when he was snapped having dinner with close friend Katy Perry in LA earlier in the week; the actor has been busy promoting his new film Good Time on both coasts.
Twigs's outing comes just weeks after Robert was asked about his relationship status in an interview with Howard Stern, to which he replied that he and Twigs were "kind of" engaged. The couple first got together back in August 2014, and engagement rumors were sparked in April 2015. The two have said a lot of sweet things about each other over the years but have managed to keep their romance pretty low-key (especially compared to Rob's last relationship with Twilight costar Kristen Stewart).
One of the last times we saw Rob and Twigs out and about together was back in May, when they took a PDA-filled stroll through LA around Rob's 31st birthday. We don't know whether Twigs and Brieuc are just friends or if her relationship with Rob is on the rocks, but we'll let you decide for yourselves.
Why the First Men Are a Crucial Part of Game of Thrones History
In the seventh season of Game of Thrones, Jon Snow is determined to woo Daenerys Targaryen. And we mean "woo" in many senses. Sure, we're low-key hoping they get married (even though they're related), but we're also hoping they join forces to fight off the approaching White Walker army that draws closer with each passing day. In the fourth episode of the season, Jon Snow takes another stab at winning over the Mother of Dragons: he takes her into his newfound dragonglass cave to show her some supercool cave paintings. While the whole affair yielded plenty of hilarious reactions and a flashback to that other cave scene, it also brings to the forefront a group of people we've heard about time and time again: the First Men. According to Jon's sweet new cave doodles, the First Men united with the Children of the Forest to defeat the White Walkers many millennia ago. Wondering about the First Men? So were we.
The First Men got their name after they became the very first humans to migrate to the continent of Westeros from Essos about 12,000 years before the events of Game of Thrones. They crossed to the region on a natural land bridge that connected from Essos and ended somewhere near modern-day Dorne. Up until then, the land of Westeros was ruled by the magical Children of the Forest and the giants. The Children, who were angry about the arrival of the humans, destroyed the land bridge that connected the two continents. For many years, the Children and the First Men battled in a grueling war. The Children were pushed back to the far North. Eventually, they signed a pact that would bring peace between the two groups. The First Men began building their kingdoms across the continent.
During the war, though, the Children of the Forest were desperate. Leaf, one of the Children, tells Bran at the Weirwood Tree that they eventually ended up creating the White Walkers. "We were at war. We were being slaughtered," she says. "Our sacred trees being cut down. We needed to defend ourselves . . . from you. From men." Eventually, though, the White Walkers turned on their makers, which led to the Great War Jon points out in the cave drawings. The White Walker threat was so formidable that the Children and the First Men eventually banded together to fight them off. With extra help from the giants and the Children, Bran the Builder constructed the mighty Wall to keep the White Walkers away, should they ever return. He also built Winterfell, became the first King in the North, and founded the Night's Watch to forever protect Westeros from another invasion.
This is where the Seven Kingdoms come in. Long after this major war with the White Walkers, a race of men known as the Andals sailed across the sea to Westeros. They spread across the continent rapidly and ruthlessly, conquering land as they found it. The one region the Andals were unable to fully overtake was the North, which was fortified strongly against invading forces. Even so, the Andals settled in everywhere else.
Nowadays, there are very few traces left of the First Men, though it's worth noting that the original race's blood runs in all the houses. In the more southern houses, like the Lannisters, the Targaryens, and the Baratheons, the blood of the Andals is way more prominent. They have very little blood from the First Men. The Starks, on the other hand, have a lot more blood from the First Men in their lineage. But the Wildlings that grew up North of the Wall are perhaps the most "pure-blooded." Very few of the Andals, if any, have ventured beyond the Wall. This explains why the Wildlings snub Southerners and are against intermingling.
Now that the White Walkers are coming back, it's time to forge the same union that occurred all those thousands of years ago. Let's just hope all the houses figure their sh*t out in time.
Jessica Alba Knew Cash Warren Was the One After Their First Meeting
Jessica Alba recently announced that she and husband Cash Warren are expecting their third child together. While we certainly can't wait for the baby's arrival, the news also has us reminiscing about how their beautiful romance came to be. The couple first met on the set of Fantastic Four in 2004 and the actress felt an instant attraction; Jessica was starring in the film as Sue Storm, while Cash was working as a production assistant. "Right after I met [Cash], I called my best friend and was like, 'I met this guy and I feel like I've known him forever and I'm going to know him for the rest of my life,'" she told Cosmopolitan in September 2010.
Jessica and Cash tied the knot in a courthouse ceremony in Beverly Hills in May 2008. At the time, Jessica was pregnant with their first daughter, Honor, whom she later gave birth to in June 2008. Three years later, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Haven, and the two have been going strong ever since.
How 1 Stranger Saved This Little Boy From an Injury That Only 1 Percent Survive
4-year-old boy who was internally decapitated, expected to make a full recovery. Mother says chance of survival < 1% http://pic.twitter.com/ZBftcIlcN5
- Sierra Oshrin (@SierraKBOI) June 3, 2016
After a horrific accident, one little boy's head was internally decapitated and essentially just hanging on by a thread to his spinal cord. Luckily for this 4-year-old child, he's not only expected to make a full recovery but also one without surgery thanks to a stranger the family credits with helping to save his life.
An internal decapitation is a rare condition that occurs when the skull becomes separated from the spine. Less than one percent of people survive this massive injury and those who do usually require a major operation as well as a halo brace. However, little Killian keeps on beating the odds.
After celebrating Killian's fourth birthday, the little boy and his mother, Brandy Gonzalez, were driving home when their car hit some ice and began to skid out of control. Their vehicle slammed into another car, but luckily a police officer and his wife, Leah Woodward, happened to be driving toward the accident at the time of the crash.
As the first ones on scene, they immediately checked for survivors and heard the child screaming from the car. With the doors locked, the cop had to smash the back window open so his wife could get inside. He then guided her on how to help the severely injured child.
Leah sat up his limp body and securely held his head in order to protect his cervical spine from any further damage, common protocol before EMT professionals can protect his neck with a brace. She didn't move for over an hour, and her actions most likely saved his life - the slightest move could have been enough to completely sever the boy's spine.
"I'm trying to stay calm but inside I'm panicking. I'm thinking I don't know what I'm doing, and it was the worst feeling I've ever had to not know how to help," Leah said to KBOI2.
Killian's mother broke almost every bone in her body during the accident and is currently recovering at a hospital across the street from where her son is being treated for a ruptured spleen and broken arm and ribs, as well as the clinical decapitation.
"It's just so hard because I'm in the same town and I haven't been able to see him," said Brandy. "It's just hard knowing he's in so much pain and I can't be there."
Nutritionist-Recommended Foods to Suppress Your Appetite Naturally
There may be no magic pill for weight loss, but dietician Julie Upton, MS, RD, of Appetite For Health, stays on top of the science behind taming your appetite naturally. Here, she deciphers recent research and shares six foods that will keep your appetite in check.
Feel like you need some help with hunger management? You're not alone. Most of my clients who struggle with weight loss or maintenance also struggle with hunger. Of course, it's no coincidence - it's hard to walk around feeling famished, particularly when you're faced with the temptation of high-calorie treats everywhere you turn. No wonder willpower wilts!
The good news is that several new studies have identified compounds in certain foods that trigger the release of hormones in the stomach that help you feel full and neurotransmitters in the brain that suppress appetite and reduce cravings. Eating more of these foods can help keep your hunger in check, even as you cut calories to peel off pounds. It's a weight-loss win-win!
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry
Apples
An apple a day may keep extra pounds away, according to research that shows this fruit contains filling soluble fiber as well as ursolic acid, a natural compound that has been found to boost fat burning and which may promote lean muscle mass. In one study, researchers from the University of Iowa note that animals given ursolic acid supplements increased their muscle mass and energy expenditure (or calorie burn). And a study that was done on people and published in the journal Appetite shows that women who added three small apples (total calorie cost: 200) to their diet per day lost a little more than two pounds in 10 weeks - more than dieters who did not include the fruit in their diet.
Related: Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bake: Guaranteed to Keep You Full Until Lunch
A medium apple has 95 calories and 6 grams of fiber; a small apple has 75 calories and 3.5 grams of fiber. Be sure to eat the whole apple, as the ursolic acid as well as beneficial antioxidants are concentrated in the skin.
Beans (. . . and peas, lentils, and chickpeas)
Beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas are a triple threat against hunger because they contain a lot of fiber; are excellent sources of slow-to-digest protein; and have a low glycemic index to keep blood sugar and carbohydrate cravings in check. A recent meta-analysis published in the journal Obesity indicates that people who ate about one cup (5.5 ounces) of legumes felt 31 percent fuller than those who didn't eat these fiber-filled foods. Another study, published recently in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, reports that overweight people who ate a bean-rich diet lost nearly 10 pounds in 16 weeks while simultaneously improving their blood cholesterol levels.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Jae Payne
Eggs
Here's some egg-citing news: eating a breakfast that's rich in protein (20 to 30 grams) suppresses ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates your appetite, while elevating peptide YY and GLP-1, two hormones that enhance satiety, according to research. One study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that when subjects ate eggs for breakfast (versus equal-calorie breakfasts of either cereal or croissants), they consumed up to 438 fewer calories over the entire day. In fact, studies have found that an egg breakfast may help control hunger for a full 24 hours. (To keep blood cholesterol in check, you can enjoy one egg yolk per day and use egg whites for the additional protein they provide.)
Greek Yogurt
Need a reason to go Greek? A landmark study, published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, reports that among more than 8,500 European adults, those who enjoyed a serving or more of European-style yogurt every day (either low fat or full fat, but with less added sugars compared to US varieties) were 20 percent less likely to become overweight and 38 percent less likely to become obese during the six-year follow-up compared to those who ate less than two servings of yogurt each week. How could thick and creamy Greek yogurt whittle your middle? The researchers believe that the protein, calcium, and probiotics may all play a role.
Plain Greek yogurt is your best bet because it's strained to lose the watery whey and some of the natural sugars. It has roughly twice the protein as traditional yogurt (a cup of plain Greek yogurt packs 24 grams of protein, as much as four large eggs) and half the sugar (with only about eight to nine grams of natural dairy sugars and no added sugar).
Mangos
Mangos are not only delicious, but they're also diet-friendly. A study in The Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences suggests that mango-eaters weighed less and had better diets than those who missed out on mangoes. This stone fruit contains many bioactive ingredients, including mangiferin, a compound that has been shown in preliminary research to help reduce body fat and control blood sugar levels. Research published in the British Journal of Nutrition reports that mango added to the diets of rodents prevented weight gain and improved blood sugar and insulin levels when the animals were fed a high-fat diet to promote weight gain.
A cup of sliced mango has just 100 calories and 3 grams of filling fiber. Say, mmm, mango!
Pistachios (. . . and other nuts)
Go ahead, get a little nutty! Despite being high in calories (160 to 170 calories per ounce), nuts can be very slimming. Studies show that nut lovers are thinner than those who avoid or rarely eat nuts. Why? Nuts keep you fuller longer; their calories aren't fully absorbed by the body, and nuts provide a modest boost to your metabolism, according to research.
In-shell pistachios provide a unique advantage for waistline-watchers. A preliminary study from Eastern Illinois University suggests that people who snacked on in-shell pistachios consumed 41 percent fewer calories than those who ate shelled pistachios. The authors say the empty shells might be a helpful visual cue about how much has been eaten, thereby encouraging you to eat less.
Prepare to Melt in a Puddle - The Pottery Barn Halloween Costumes For Babies Have Arrived!
I'm at a loss for words. Pottery Barn Kids just released its brand-new baby costumes for Halloween, and they're so adorable, I can hardly take it. We're talking teeny-tiny puppies, unicorns, dragons, superheroes, mermaids, and more. Many of these costumes work for children from 0 to 24 months. Pottery Barn Kids is known for making high-quality costumes that will keep your little one cozy and comfortable. The retailer also designs them to be easy to get in and out of for diaper changes. But back to the cuteness: can you even handle it? Look through all of the options so you can see both the costumes and the lovable babies. If you're looking to buy one of these costumes, do it soon. These little gems are going to sell out fast . . . we know it.
Leslie Jones Freaks the F*ck Out When a Game of Thrones Cast Member Surprises Her
You might think you're a big Game of Thrones fan, but few people can compare to the enthusiasm displayed by Leslie Jones each Sunday. The Saturday Night Live comedian stopped by Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday for episode two of their "Game of Jones" segment, which proved once again that there is truly nothing more enjoyable than watching Jones lose her damn mind over the show. She and Meyers watched season seven episode "The Spoils of War" together, where she had some incredible observations about Game of Thrones characters:
- "Bronn is the dude in the hood who knows where all the $1 cigarettes are."
- "Man, he's high. Always out here by the tree. Spaced out. What is you smokin', Bran?"
- "Theon is a coward. He's a coward! I don't care if you got no dick. You did wrong!"
- "Varys is like the girlfriend who you don't really know if she's your homegirl or not. One minute she's supporting you and got your back, but the next minute you hear about some bullsh*t she said to someone else about you."
After making her comment about Varys, the late-night host gave her the mother of all surprises when he brought out real-life Varys, actor Conleth Hill, to watch the rest of the episode with them. Helpful tip while you're watching: don't drink anything, because you'll immediately spit it out from laughing so hard.
4 Reasons I'm Refusing to Use "Authoritarian Parenting"
The hallmark phrase of an authoritarian parent is "Because I said so!"
Now, while I'm pretty sure that all of us have heard these four words escape our mouths in a moment of exasperation, it doesn't mean we are all authoritarian parents. A true authoritarian parent demands immediate and complete obedience without any explanation, all the time.
In the 1960s, developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind classified parenting styles into three basic categories that are still used today: authoritarian parenting, permissive parenting, and authoritative parenting. The three categories are based on how much a parent demands of their child and how responsive the parent is to the child.
Authoritarian parenting involves high parental demand and low parental responsiveness.
Permissive parenting is characterized by low demands being placed upon the child, while at the same time being very responsive to the child.
Authoritative parenting combines the high parental demand of authoritarian parenting with the high responsiveness of permissive parenting. Baumrind concluded that authoritative parenting was best for children.
I interviewed several therapists who specialize in working with children, as well as some experienced elementary school teachers, and all of them agreed with Baumrind: from a child development standpoint, authoritarian parenting is not the optimal way to parent. After my interviews, here are the top four reasons I'm not using authoritarian parenting.
1. I want my kids to be able to self-regulate.
I don't want my kids to only do the right thing when someone is watching. I want them to learn to do the right thing because they have a deep understanding of why it's the right thing to do. If they have learned to follow rules only to avoid a consequence, then they have missed a valuable learning opportunity.
I talked with Dr. Don Williams, a child psychologist whose practice has a focus in the area of self-regulation disorders. This is his explanation of why using authoritarian parenting can inhibit the development of self-regulation:
"Authoritarian parenting tends to use shame and fear, which stir up the stress centers in the lower and mid-brain. It can be very effective at achieving short-term results and does develop cause and effect, which is driven by the control center of the brain (this is why speeding tickets are effective).
But self-regulation involves activation of the frontal lobes in much broader ways, such as the need to repair when you've done damage to a relationship, nonjudgmental self-awareness, morality, and valuing self-control itself. These are capacities that need to be taught and cultivated over a long period. Excessive shame and fear will inhibit the development of some of these capacities."
2. I want my kids to be able to practice self-care.
The first step in self-care is self-awareness. You have to be able to notice what it is you need before you can care for yourself. The second step to self-care is being able to effectively communicate with others about what it is that you need. If children are routinely not allowed to articulate how they are feeling or what they are thinking, then they lose valuable opportunities to develop self-awareness and communication skills.
Hannah DuVon, LMFT, is a children's therapist whose work focuses on child development and healthy attachment. She explained to me that these skills are imperative for long-term social and emotional development:
"The authoritarian parent style has been discouraged more and more over the last decade. Research has shown that the authoritarian parenting style, although often effective at getting obedience/compliance in the moment, still has its drawbacks. . . . The authoritarian style of parenting may also breed a feeling of powerlessness and resentment as children feel angry that their thoughts and feelings aren't heard and confused on how to express themselves in a way that feels like they matter. In my experience with working with children, it comes down to the human need to feel important and be heard. Parents need to maintain rules and limits; however, taking the time to listen to their kids and then offering an explanation of why allows children to feel respected even if ultimately they do not get their way."
3. I want my kids to be responsible.
Authoritarian parenting can make the child overly dependent upon the adult. The child learns that all they have to do is follow the instructions of the adult. They learn that they don't really have to think through the whole situation for themselves. If something goes wrong, they can end up feeling that it is not really their fault because they were just doing what they were told.
Amanda Dungan, a grade-school teacher for over 18 years at Escondido Elementary in Stanford, CA, explains how this can happen:
"While the authoritarian style of parenting sets high expectations for behavior, it does not usually explain the reasoning behind the expectations. Punishments are also often given without explanation. The child does not have a chance to make behavioral choices and experience natural consequences. Children need practice making their own choices in order to find out they are capable of handling hard situations - leading to resiliency. Authoritarian parenting may inadvertently teach children that they are not responsible for their own behavior and are incapable of making good choices."
4. I want my kids to form healthy relationships.
I don't want my children to get used to the pattern of doing things out of fear. I want them to have lots of practice while they are young and at home with relationships that are based on love and trust. I want them to know that if there is fear in a relationship, then that is a red flag that something is wrong and needs attention.
Linda Ikeda, MFT, is a therapist who has been working with children for over 25 years. This is her take on authoritarian parenting:
"Any of us can MAKE our children obey, but when we do, that usually means a child is obeying out of fear of the parent rather than out of love or trust. The question you must ask yourself is, 'Do you want your children to obey you because they are afraid of you or because they love you?'"
The 8 Biggest Swimsuit Trends of the Summer
We're not sure about you, but our Summer plans include a whole lot of hanging out by the pool or on the beach, which brings us to the top our to-do lists: shopping for new swimsuits. Before you start rummaging through your drawers to check out your swimsuit stash, only to realize the inevitable, we're gonna save you the trouble and tell you that yes, it's time to add a couple of new pieces to your collection. But don't worry, because we've done all the hard work for you by listing this year's best swimsuit trends you're going to see filling your social media feeds. So, without further adieu, here are the eight best swimsuit trends of 2017.
For even easier shopping, click below to get the style you want.
Everything We Already Know About Game of Thrones Season 8
We're still in the midst of the seventh season of Game of Thrones, but we're already setting our sights on what's going to happen in season eight. A little premature? Maybe. But the good folks at HBO have graciously been dropping hint after hint about how the final season is going to shape up, so we might as well start obsessing over it all now.
16 Iconic Photos of Elvis Presley That Prove He Was the Ultimate Heartthrob
Elvis Presley was an icon for so many reasons - he knew how to sing, he knew how to dance, and he knew how to make girls go crazy with that smile. Like so many other greats before him, the musician and actor, famous for songs like "Jailhouse Rock" and movies like Blue Hawaii, left this world much too soon. Elvis was just 42 years old when he suffered a heart attack and died in August 1977. But despite his physical absence, he's still very much a part of pop culture. His good looks make new generations fall in love with him, his songs are still blasted on the radio, and his Graceland mansion in Tennessee is still a huge tourist attraction. To celebrate his life and your unwavering crush on him, look at some of his best moments ahead that will still make you weak in the knees.
These Are the 32 Books From Your Childhood That Your Kids Should Have
With so many amazing books for children out in the world, nursery and kid-room bookshelves have the tendency to get filled up pretty quickly - but are you stocking them with the stories you once enjoyed? Maybe you were the type to have your parents read Madeline to you until they were blue in the face, or perhaps you preferred a few poems from Where the Sidewalk Ends. Either way, it's time to revisit those books that you once (and probably still) love so that your kiddos can enjoy them as well.
Read through for the 32 books from your childhood that your tots need to have on their bookshelves, stat!
Alessandra Ambrosio Wore the 1 Monokini You Need to Show Off Your Curves
If you're after the monokini trend, look no further than Alessandra Ambrosio's display of chicness while vacationing with her girlfriends in Saint-Tropez. Back in the Summer, the Brazilian Victoria's Secret Angel posted an Instagram video featuring a peek at the Henna Blues Monokini One-Piece ($180) from her Ále by Alessandra swimwear collection.
Although we're understandably in awe of the fact that she's partying by a hot tub on a boat (seriously), we need a moment to take in how perfect the swimsuit she's wearing actually is. Adorned with a fun paisley pattern and edgy cutouts, the purple-hued suit is one that will never go out of style and always flatter your figure. Press play above to see it in action. Then, check out even more similar styles.
These Are the 6 Best Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup
It almost sounds like a bad joke: what's white and gray all over? Sometimes, it's your face after you apply sunscreen. As a makeup artist, I've seen how sunscreens can change the appearance of one's skin tone as well as the foundation layered over it. Those pesky white undertones are caused by the sunscreen's ultraviolet filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Luckily, beauty brands have been fine-tuning their sunscreen products for a more transparent finish.
To help keep your sunscreen game on point (while keeping your natural glow), I've found some of the best SPF products on the market. These sunscreens manage to compliment your beauty routine without leaving that chalky residue behind.
After all, overexposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer, as well a major factor in the appearance of aging. So, lathering on one of these babies is a win-win situation.
These Cross-Stitch Hoops Perfectly Capture Your Most Subversive Salty Thoughts
Home decor embellished with words and phrases tends to be a bit, well, cutesy. That's why we were tickled to see artisans take cross-stitch hoops - an old-fashioned and traditionally proper style of decor - and sew subversive sayings onto them. It would be so easy to glance at these handmade works of art mounted on a wall or resting on a shelf and not notice their hilariously salty messages. But it's so much more fun when you look closely and take notice. Check out our favorites ahead, and then decide which one you'll boldly hang on your wall!
83 Travel Experiences to Have While You're Alive and Breathing
Live life to the fullest by soaking up some of the most awesome travel experiences that will leave you changed forever.
This Moving Harry Potter Theory Will Make You Love Neville Longbottom Even More
Neville Longbottom could have been The Chosen One, but he wasn't. Instead, Harry took on the weight of the wizarding world, and his acts of bravery proved countless times that he was a true Gryffindor at heart. While Harry's bravery was brash, bold, and apparent to everyone around him, Neville's went more or less unnoticed throughout their years at Hogwarts. But his quiet courage was something else entirely. I've seen this fan theory throughout the years, and I can't help but agree that while Harry, Ron, and Hermione were undeniably brave, Neville Longbottom's particular type of bravery was perhaps the most remarkable of all. Here's the theory.
Basically, Neville stood before his greatest fear and faced it daily. What's more, he stood up not to his enemies, but to his friends in The Sorcerer's Stone - because he believed it was right. "And then led a resistance against a Snape-led Hogwarts in year seven. He led a group of children (and friends) in a mini-war against his biggest fear," added Redditor TheKyleBaxter.
Then, in what is arguably one of the bravest deeds in the entire Harry Potter series, Neville stood up to Voldemort himself. "This is the moment when Voldemort appears to have won. Harry appears to be dead. There's almost no hope left to win the war for them. And still, Neville continues to defy Voldemort, despite Voldemort's offer to let him join the Death Eaters," SchroedingersKneazle pointed out in a Reddit thread on the subject. It may not be the same kind of bravery Harry had when he knowingly walked into the Forbidden Forest to face Voldemort and to his inevitable death. And it's not the same as the bravery it took Harry to come back to the warring wizarding world and finish it all when he could have gone on to be with those he'd loved and lost.
But Neville's is a different kind of courage that perseveres. Harry's bravery resulted from facing a responsibility that was thrust upon him at birth; Neville's bravery was something he chose to have daily, even if wasn't something that came as naturally to him. Some fans have even said Neville's experience facing Snape is a metaphor for dealing with anxiety and fear of failure, and even more understandably, dealing with fears of facing bullies at school - which many Muggle children deal with everyday as well.
Either way, there's no doubt that the Sorting Hat made the right decision when he sorted Neville Longbottom. The hat placed him in Gryffindor, where dwell the brave at heart, their daring, nerve, and chivalry truly setting them apart.
7 Times Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid Were the Ultimate Swimsuit Twins
Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid have many things in common. The two best friends are highly successful supermodels, have a huge following on social media, and, most importantly, they both know how to choose an Instagram-worthy swimsuit. The fashionable ladies - who have been on countless vacations together - have even been known to rock some of the same swimsuit styles.
From itsy-bitsy bikinis to cheeky styles that leave little to the imagination, scroll on to have a look at seven times Kendall and Bella were swimsuit twins. Then, shop similar versions of their bikinis if you're inspired to try one out with your BFF.
1 Dad's Response to His Kid Spilling a Slushy at Target is "Parenting Done Right"
Sometimes when your kid makes a mess, it can be particularly overwhelming, especially if you're in a public place. But one dad didn't let the stress get to him when his son spilled a slushy all over the floor in Target. And one mom was so impressed with how he handled the situation, she posted about what happened on Facebook.
Facebook user Kalynne Marie said that although the 6- or 7-year-old boy made a mess of epic proportion - "I'm talking blue and red goop all over the floor, the table, everywhere" - his father definitely kept his cool.
After the boy immediately apologized, his father took the accident as an opportunity to teach his son, rather than getting angry.
"Hey, it happens, let's go get napkins and I can show you how to clean it up," the father said.
According to the nearby mom, the pair went to get napkins and began cleaning up the mess and had a conversation parents everywhere should jot down.
Kalynne wrote that as they were throwing the napkins away, the father said to his son, "You're going to be a human being for a long time, and you have such a smart brain that it's important you learn how to be more aware of what you're doing. So next time just be sure to pay more attention to your surroundings so accidents like this don't happen. Accidents like these can be prevented, but it's still okay if they happen. As long as you take responsibility for your mistakes, the clean up is a breeze."
Talk about a little patience going a long way, right?
I F*cking Hate Brushing My Teeth, So I Tried Unicorn Toothpaste to Spice Things Up
While I relish most of my nighttime beauty rituals (I consider removing eye makeup genuinely fun!), brushing my teeth just really pisses me off. Life is short, and two minutes is a long time to spend on one boring task. I believe the quote is, "Carpe diem, seize the day," not "Carpe diem, go brush your teeth." I always try and cheat my way out of the task, which, one night, prompted my exasperated roommate to sigh, "You are SUCH a child!"
But back when I was actually a child (by definition, not practice), toothpaste just seemed to taste better. That's because my mother was fooling us young 'uns with children's flavors such as Bubble Mint, Strawberry Splash, and Cookies and Cream. Now the closest thing I get to a flavor is "For Sensitive Teeth." Not exactly the most delicious-sounding name on the market. So maybe I didn't hate toothpaste, I had just fallen out of love with it. Maybe I just needed a frisky new flavor to spice things up.
I believe the quote is, "Carpe diem, seize the day," not "Carpe diem, go brush your teeth."
When I read the customer reviews for Oral Essentials Strawberry Kids' Toothpaste ($9), I threw up my hands and yelled, "FLAVA FLAVE," because I knew I'd found my flavor of love. First, it had a rainbow tube. Yup, Team Unicorn has infiltrated our hair color and eye makeup, and I will gladly surrender my mouth to the trend. Oral Essentials immediately became my "unicorn toothpaste," as its tub features the majestic creature, calling me over into the land of oral health and happiness.
But there were also the reviews. As one satisfied consumer wrote, "My 4 year-old used to protest [brushing her teeth], but now she jumps up and does it with excitement!!" If unicorn toothpaste was good enough for the choicest toddlers, it had me sold. But was I going to f*ck up my teeth?
I hit up NYC-based cosmetic dentist Dr. Gregg Lituchy of Lowenberg, Lituchy & Kantor, who greenlit my little experiment . . . sort of. According to Dr. Lituchy, "Adult toothpaste tends to have a higher percentage of fluoride than kids' toothpaste," since the chemical compound has been shown to be harmful for children. I could make up for the lack of fluoride by using floss and nonalcoholic mouthwash, and these products "have enough fluoride to prevent decay and cavities." Per Dr. Lituchy's insistence, and good common sense, I always follow up with floss and Act Total Care Mouthwash ($6), which I've used since before I can remember (it's probably my longest relationship to date).
Plus, without knowing it, I'd secretly picked a champion kids' toothpaste. There's a reason that lil' unicorn on the packaging looks so proud - Oral Essentials doesn't contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). "The harshness of this chemical has been proven to create microscopic damage to the oral tissue that lines the inside of your mouth, causing canker sores." I am very glad that Dr. Lituchy warned me of this ingredient, because I don't need my toothpaste to give me canker sores. I already get those from eating potato chips, thank you very much.
I decided to pair my toddlers' toothpaste with a sophisticated toothbrush, because that's what grown-ups do. The Boie Toothbrush ($12) just might be the sexiest oral health product on the market (almost to an unnecessary extent, but it is so extra that I'm into it). This adult brush seems like the mature ying to my childish yang of unicorn paste.
With rainbow-high hopes, I tried the toothpaste. When I first started brushing, I almost did a spit take, because the damn stuff tastes exactly like Jolly Ranchers. Like, prime Blue Raspberry Jolly Ranchers, not any of that Grape nonsense. I'll go so far as to say that I would seriously squeeze this sh*t over ice cream like it was hot fudge if I could.
On my very first night of this experiment, I brushed my teeth for two and a half minutes without even checking my timer once. I've been hooked since then, even becoming that annoyingly perfect person who brushes mornings and nights and touches up in-between. I even poured it into a portable holder for contacts so I could use it on a plane at 35,000 feet.
Since unicorn toothpaste has cured my decades-long grudge against brushing my teeth and sports the cutest packaging ever while doing so, I'd say this product is nothing short of a fantasy. It's also further proof that in the everlasting battle between mermaids and unicorns, my side has the upper hand - er, hoof. Your move, Team Mermaid.
7 Things You Never Knew About the Solar Eclipse, Straight From NASA Scientists
After months of waiting and planning, the solar eclipse is finally almost here! Maybe you're one of the lucky ones traveling to catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse in action. Or perhaps you're someone who has to sit this one out at work and wait for the next solar eclipse in 2024. Whatever the case, six NASA scientists took part in a Reddit "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) to answer all of your eclipse-related questions.
Six scientists participated in the AMA: Noah Petro, a NASA post doc; Alexa Halford, a contractor at NASA Goddard; Mitzi Adams, a solar scientist for NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center; Bill Cooke, head of NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office; and Jay Herman and Guoyong Wen, both atmospheric scientists. They answered a variety of questions and stressed the importance of solar eclipse safety. Keep reading to see what these incredible people revealed!
Animals definitely react to the eclipse.
Halford and Cooke both mentioned that animals might react a bit strangely to the eclipse. Cooke wrote that "animals will exhibit twilight behavior." This could include seeing ants heading back to their mounds or chickens going to sleep. And though animals don't necessarily know as humans do that a solar eclipse is coming, they "have enough common sense not to look at the sun during the solar eclipse."
If you're not in the "path of totality" of the solar eclipse, you won't be able to tell the difference.
According to Herman, "your eyes will adapt to the change" and the light difference won't be that much. It'll be like looking toward the sky between noon and late afternoon - a little less bright but nothing crazy.
If you can't catch the eclipse now, waiting for it is OK.
The next solar eclipse will be here in seven years, and waiting for it might be in your best interest - if you're in the Northeast. Cooke wrote that the "2024 eclipse will be certainly be more geographically convenient" for people in that area.
NASA can "calculate eclipses many centuries ahead."
With the help of computers, NASA can easily figure out when eclipses will happen. Herman wrote that knowing "the motions of the planets and moons with high accuracy" is what allows them to do this. However, as Cooke pointed out, the only questionable part of their calculations is "the slow-down and the rate of the Earth's rotation."
Astronauts on the International Space Station will also be able to see the eclipse.
The astronauts will only be able to see the shadow it creates on Earth, so while they'll be experiencing a byproduct of the event, they won't be able to see it in full from the ISS.
The solar eclipse will be used for research purposes.
Scientists will use the solar eclipse to study the inner portion of the solar corona. It helps them "better understand the transport of older storms, which, if Earth direct, can drive geomagnetic storms and space weather." Adams added that it's a part of the sun that our current space equipment doesn't get to explore.
It'll be the first solar eclipse some see in their lifetime.
You might've noticed that this particular solar eclipse is getting a lot of attention. Herman thinks it's both because of social media and that for some people, it's the first one they've ever had the chance to see. Cooke also believes it's because this particular eclipse is so unique. "This eclipse is the first one since 1918 in which the moon's shadow cuts across the United States, which is a fairly rare occurrence. Practically the entire country is within a day's drive of the path of totality . . . " Cooke wrote.
The team answered a lot more questions that you can read in full on the Reddit page. For now, you can start your countdown to Aug. 21!
5 No-Fail Beauty Tips I Learned on the Set of Telenovelas
Singer, actress, fashion designer, entrepreneur, writer, and mom of two Thalia shares her parenting, lifestyle, fashion, and beauty tips as POPSUGAR Latina's contributor.
After appearing in so many telenovelas and working with so many different makeup artists, makeup brands, and hairstylists who changed my look for each role and sometimes several times in one day, I walked away with a few tricks up my sleeve. Here are five of my favorite and most useful ones.
Ed Sheeran Isn't the Only Celebrity Making a Cameo on Game of Thrones Season 7
Game of Thrones has it all - dragons, zombies, epic kingdoms, and even celebrity cameos.
As Arya continues on her long-awaited return to Westeros in the season seven premiere, she runs into none other than Ed Sheeran as a Lannister soldier. This actually isn't the first time the show has incorporated real-life musicians into its expansive world. Other cameos beyond musicians have happened, too, like when the faces of show runners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss were among those in the Hall of Faces.
As far as season seven goes, Sheeran isn't the only celebrity cameo to keep an eye out for. New York Mets pitcher Noah Syndergaard also pops up on Team Lannister in the fourth episode, "The Spoils of War," as a general (pictured below). The superfan was tight-lipped on exact details leading up to the appearance, only hinting in a Sports Illustrated interview that his character will either kill someone or get killed in his scene. Now that the episode has aired, we know that Syndergaard's character shows off some pretty sick spear-tossing skills, so we'll assume he gets out of the climactic battle against Dany and the Dothraki unscathed.
Brent Hinds of the metal band Mastodon is also confirmed to make a cameo. Previously, he and his bandmates played Wildlings-turned-wights in "Hardhome," the episode with an insane White Walker vs. Night's Watch and Free Folk battle. Though he'll show up solo this time, he'll be undead once again.
Like with everything else Game of Thrones-related, rumors about cameos fly about as well. Among the unconfirmed appearances are indie-pop band Bastille, who hired Sophie Turner for their "Oblivion" music video and were spotted on the show's Belfast set. Supposedly they'll be Wildlings at the end of the season, but the band insists they were simply there for a tour. UFC fighter Conor McGregor also denied a cameo after word got out that he might show up in Westeros. No one should be surprised if they do end up on the show, though - remember when everyone involved kept saying Jon Snow was definitely dead?
Ed Sheeran Isn't the Only Celebrity Making a Cameo on Game of Thrones Season 7
Game of Thrones has it all - dragons, zombies, epic kingdoms, and even celebrity cameos.
As Arya continues on her long-awaited return to Westeros in the season seven premiere, she runs into none other than Ed Sheeran as a Lannister soldier. This actually isn't the first time the show has incorporated real-life musicians into its expansive world. Other cameos beyond musicians have happened, too, like when the faces of show runners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss were among those in the Hall of Faces.
As far as season seven goes, Sheeran isn't the only celebrity cameo to keep an eye out for. New York Mets pitcher Noah Syndergaard also pops up on Team Lannister in the fourth episode, "The Spoils of War," as a general (pictured below). The superfan was tight-lipped on exact details leading up to the appearance, only hinting in a Sports Illustrated interview that his character will either kill someone or get killed in his scene. Now that the episode has aired, we know that Syndergaard's character shows off some pretty sick spear-tossing skills, so we'll assume he gets out of the climactic battle against Dany and the Dothraki unscathed.
Brent Hinds of the metal band Mastodon is also confirmed to make a cameo. Previously, he and his bandmates played Wildlings-turned-wights in "Hardhome," the episode with an insane White Walker vs. Night's Watch and Free Folk battle. Though he'll show up solo this time, he'll be undead once again.
Like with everything else Game of Thrones-related, rumors about cameos fly about as well. Among the unconfirmed appearances are indie-pop band Bastille, who hired Sophie Turner for their "Oblivion" music video and were spotted on the show's Belfast set. Supposedly they'll be Wildlings at the end of the season, but the band insists they were simply there for a tour. UFC fighter Conor McGregor also denied a cameo after word got out that he might show up in Westeros. No one should be surprised if they do end up on the show, though - remember when everyone involved kept saying Jon Snow was definitely dead?
These Are the Chores Your Child Should Be Doing This Year Based on Their Age
If you're a mama who feels like she's doing literally everything around the house, including picking up after your very capable kids, we know how you feel. It makes some parents feel guilty to give their children mundane responsibilities like taking out the garbage, and some moms follow the "if I do it, it'll get done faster and better" mode of thinking. But the truth is, our children can - and probably should - handle more than we think.
We're not suggesting you turn your child into a regular Mrs. Doubtfire, but there are a bunch of tasks around the house that can be completed by children based on their age. If you're looking to set your kiddos up with a chore chart to help them learn about hard work and having responsibilities, there's something every child can help with.
Scroll through for a list of manageable household chores for kids based on their age.
Tarek El Moussa Just Revealed What Pushed Him to File For Divorce and It Might Shock You
When Tarek El Moussa filed for divorce from wife and HGTV partner in crime Christina El Moussa in December 2016, we had a lot of questions, and now, he's telling all. Tarek recently sat down with Us Weekly to talk about what caused his split, as well as that shocking incident where Christina called the cops on her then-husband in May of last year.
"It was a gradual thing over time," the Flip or Flop star said when asked about what went wrong in his marriage. "We were both very busy people with health issues and kids. We didn't fight, we just grew apart." He explained that his battle with cancer took a toll on their relationship, as well as Christina's fertility issues and their miscarriage after having Taylor, 6, and before welcoming Brayden, 16 months.
Although the news of their split was shocking, fans were even more shocked to find out that Tarek and Christina decided to continue filming the show despite their divorce. When asked if it was awkward, Tarek said, "You have good days and bad days. Now we say, 'Hi, good morning.' We film together and talk about houses and the kids. . . . We'll be together for the rest of our lives because we have kids. We need to get along for the kids and for our sanity."
True that! But things did not seem so cordial between the parents of two after the news broke that Christina called the cops on Tarek after he left their home with a handgun in his backpack. As for why she called 911, Tarek said, "You'd have to ask her. It was blown out of proportion. I went hiking in Chino Hills State Park. We have bobcats, mountain lions. I took my gun only for protection."
He said that they went through counseling to try to work things out, but they realized a separation was the right decision. "Over the Summer, I moved out," Tarek said. "We thought it was best to have space. We didn't want the kids to see us upset."
Although there were some suspicious rumors about Tarek hiring a private investigator to check on Christina, he refuted the claims and said he was "done worrying about the past."
So, how's he doing since the split? In addition to saying he's "totally moved on," Tarek truly sounds like he's living his best life. "My goal is to create memories, and I think I'm doing that," he said. "I'm the happiest I've been in a long time. It takes a situation like this, where you get knocked down and you rebuild yourself into the person you want to be. I'm becoming the person I want to be."
15 Simple Things Stylish Women Do Every Day
Contrary to popular belief, really chic women aren't superhuman - they're just well-prepared. If you don't see them running around with week-old coffee stains on their blouses or hobbling in painful heels, it's not because those things just don't happen to them. It's because they know how to deal.
In fact, they're dealing on a daily basis. Truth is, the fashionable friends you envy have some very helpful habits that make looking polished, confident, and cool a daily reality. It's not about a total wardrobe overhaul or dropping tons of cash on the season's biggest trends. Real style starts at home the moment you wake up. We've done the research - all you have to do is read on for the takeaways you can start practicing right now.
These Are the Top Rated Nursing Bras on Amazon
Finding a nursing bra that does it all - supports while being comfortable and making feeding time easier - can be challenging, but since so many women are opting to breastfeed, it's more important than ever to find an adequate nursing bra that suits your needs. Whether you want something you can sleep in and wear around the house or need something with a bit more support, we turned to Amazon customer reviews to find out which options are topping the charts.
1 Woman Nervously Confronts "Cruel" Kids at Target – and Then Their Mom Showed Up
If you're a parent who has a fear of confrontation, let Mary Katherine Backstorm be your inspiration!
The Southern mom was in the checkout line at Target when she noticed a young boy and girl - roughly 11 or 12 years old - in front of her, snickering at the cashier, who had clearly suffered a "very devastating accident and cranial reconstructive surgery." He had staples in his head and a drooping eyelid, and Backstorm noticed that the kids "were getting their cell phones out and trying to take pictures of him with Snapchat filters" to text to their friends.
"I'm just not very confident sometimes in my adulthood . . . that I can be an adult in situations like this," Backstorm said in a Facebook video, admitting that often these kids intimidate her.
Today, however, the self-proclaimed "super-nonconfrontational" mom, heart racing, set her cart aside and approached the two kids and told them they were being "very cruel" to that man.
"In that moment I realized, 'Yes, yes, I'm an adult,'" she said. "'I can do this. I can take control of the situation and teach them a lesson.'"
The kids apologized, but Backstorm didn't let things end there.
She asked them how they were getting home, and they said their mom was picking them up. She decided to wait with them so she could let her know what happened.
And to her surprise, what "started out just awful" ended in a way that gave her hope.
Although it's better to watch the video to hear Backstorm retell what happened when she confronted the other mom, her final message is one worth repeating:
I just wanted to say to the lady whose kid just acted like a complete butthole in Target that you're a really good mom. Kids can be buttholes some time. If my kids are ever in Target being buttholes or bullies or making fun of people, I hope you do the same thing. It's hard to hear criticisms from other parents or hear your kids are acting contrary to how you know you've raised them, but that's part of them growing up. We all need to be keeping an eye on each other and each other's kids.
Why It's OK to Laugh at This Couple's Infertility Announcement
Whitney and Spencer Blake want to make one thing clear: the "infertility announcements" they posted on their blog are supposed to be funny.
Although the topic of infertility is a sensitive one, often kept secret from even those closest to us, it's something the couple is hoping to shed a bit more light - and a few laughs - on. Before ultimately adopting two sons, Whitney and Spencer navigated the painful road of fertility treatments while watching loved ones start their own families.
"We'd been talking about how it feels to hear pregnancy announcements and thought it might be funny to create our own versions," she said of their series of side-by-side versions of the most traditional photo ops. Read on to see all six of their spoofs and to find out how the happy parents found humor in their darkest hours.
POPSUGAR: While you were struggling, what was it like to see a pregnancy announcement pop up on Facebook?
Whitney Blake: To be honest, pregnancy announcements were one of the hardest parts of infertility. We tried really hard to plaster smiles on our faces and celebrate with the people we loved who were growing their families, but it was so achingly difficult to watch everyone around us receive the blessing we desired more than anything.
Infertility makes you feel ugly sometimes. You feel ugly on the inside for feeling jealous, and you feel ugly on the outside because you can't make a baby. You feel unfeminine and broken and somehow less than what you should be.
The rational side of me knew I was still a wonderful person whose worthiness isn't tied to my ability to make a baby. But the emotional side of me sometimes felt pretty defeated, especially when I was trying desperately to be happy for someone else's good news.
PS: You clearly have seen the lighter side of infertility in hindsight. What was it really like in the thick of it?
WB: Even in the midst of all of the heartache, we definitely found plenty to laugh about. In the middle of our struggle and the heart of our childless years, I made an infertility board game as a joke. I think it sums up pretty well some of the ways we used humor as a coping mechanism.
PS: How did you manage to keep a sense of humor throughout all this?
WB: I relied on Spencer a lot. He has this rare talent for listening to my struggles and validating my feelings while at the same time finding a way to make me laugh, even in the stressful or sorrowful times. I remember one time, when we had to drop off a semen sample at the doctor's office, the receptionist told us, "OK, that will be $200 for the sperm bath." Spencer very matter-of-factly replied, "What, were they dirty?" He's a funny one.
Spencer Blake: Most of the things you read online about infertility come from women's point of view - for obvious reasons - but there aren't as many men's perspectives on the subject. One of the ways I've been able to cope is being somewhat open about it, with my wife's encouragement. Not that I try to overshare or get too personal about it, but I think Whitney had a very healing idea in having us carefully share our struggles with people close to us.
Fiber: The Weight-Loss Wonder You're Not Eating Enough Of
If you want to lose a few pounds, there's one thing you should definitely be eating more of: fiber! Why? This plant-based roughage is a weight-loss wonder. But fear not: you don't need to resort to eating old-school oat bran cereal or adding a fiber supplement to your smoothie in order to up your fiber intake. Some of the most delicious foods, such as raspberries, strawberries, chickpeas, edamame, and sweet potatoes, are also some of the highest in fiber. Read on to get the lowdown on how fiber can help you shed pounds, find out how much fiber you should be eating, and get 10 yummy fiber-rich meal and snack ideas.
How Much Fiber Do I Need?
We all know most Americans aren't eating enough fiber, but how much do you really need? The USDA recommends you eat 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories. So, if you are eating a 2,000-calorie diet, you need about 28 grams of fiber per day. Most Americans get about half that, since the Standard American Diet is high is processed foods and animal fats that are devoid of fiber. In order to get more fiber, you need to eat more plant foods: fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds are all excellent sources.
What's the Difference Between Insoluble and Soluble Fiber?
While nutritional labels don't discern between insoluble and soluble fiber, they come from different sources, and act differently in the body, too.
Insoluble fiber is found in the peels, skins, or husks of plant-based foods. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water, and so it passes quickly through your body, mostly intact, promoting regularity, as long as you have adequate water intake.
Soluble fiber comes from the "flesh" or innards of plant-based foods. For example, when you eat an apple, the skin of the apple is insoluble fiber, while the flesh of the apple is soluble fiber. Soluble fiber does dissolve in water. Once ingested, it forms a gel-like substance in your small intestines that mixes with other partially digested foods.
If you focus on eating more whole plant foods, you don't need to be overly mindful of the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber, since they are usually packaged together in whole foods such as brown rice, corn, beans, chickpeas, grapes, apples, raspberries, and celery.
What Makes Fiber Such a Weight-Loss Wonder?
Fiber-rich foods are important for weight loss for two reasons:
1. Fiber-rich foods make you feel satisfied but are naturally low in calories.
The math on weight loss is actually pretty simple. In order to lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. Sounds easy, right? The problem is that in order to feel "full," receptors in your stomach also require a certain amount of food. Here's where insoluble fiber, in particular, plays an important role: while insoluble fiber is a carbohydrate, your body can't digest it as well as it digests other carbs, sugars, fats, and proteins, so it basically helps create a sensation of satiety by filling you up, but then passes right through you without adding to the net calories you are eating.
2. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can curb overeating.
When soluble fiber forms its gel-like substance and mixes with other foods in your small intestines, it can help "trap" sugars and fats, and slow their absorption, according to the National Fiber Council; therefore, insoluble fibers can further aid weight loss by stabilizing blood sugar levels, which can curb overeating and prevent your body from storing excess fat.
10 Tasty High-Fiber Snack and Meal Ideas:
- 1 large apple (5.4 grams) + 2 tablespoons almond butter (3.2 grams) = 8.6 grams fiber
- 1 cup steamed edamame, in pods (5.7 grams) + sea salt = 5.7 grams fiber
- 1/2 cup Brazil nuts = 5 grams fiber
- 3 celery stalks (3 grams) + 1/2 cup hummus (4.7 grams) = 7.7 grams fiber
- 1 cup refreshing quinoa salad = 10 grams fiber
- 1 half avocado (4.6 grams) with 1 slice sprouted whole wheat toast (2.2 grams) = 6.8 grams fiber
- 1 cup quick oatmeal (8.2 grams) + 1 cup raspberries (8 grams) + 1/2 cup slivered almonds (6.75 grams) = 22.95 grams fiber
- 2 black bean toasted corn tacos = 14 grams fiber
- 1 cup cooked whole wheat spaghetti (5.9 grams) + 1/2 cup cooked kale (2.6) + 1/2 cup white beans (9.3) = 17.8 grams fiber
- 1 1/2 cup curried red lentil soup = 13 grams fiber
Nutritional Information Source: US Department of Agriculture Nutrient Data Laboratory
Slim Your Inner Thighs With Our 5-Minute Workout
Feel proud showing off your thighs with this five-minute workout. It combines cardio and strengthening moves to target your inner and outer thighs instantly - your upper legs are guaranteed to be on fire by the end.
You'll Love This Greek Bride's Wedding Gown, but Her Sheer Jumpsuit Will Blow You Away
When Greek jeweler Marianna Goulandris got married, she wore a Valentino wedding gown with long floral appliquéd sleeves. Her floor-sweeping train, chiffon veil, and snow-white fur cape were just glamorous additions to the modest look. But flash back to Marianna's prewedding party at Annabelle's in London, and she was in an ornate jumpsuit decorated in crystals, sequins, and beads.
The piece was just as impressive as her designer dress, along with the cold-shoulder sheath she changed into at the reception. If you're thinking that Marianna and her new groom, Filippos Lemos, tied the knot in style, you wouldn't be mistaken. The couple chose to celebrate with their guests (including Greek Princess Maria-Olympia) at Syon House, which is owned by the Duke of Northumberland.
Scroll to get a peek at the fabulous event and count every one of Marianna's bridal outfits as inspiration. We know we do.
200+ Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the type of person who hates to throw anything away, then turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects.
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
The Myth of "Abortion Reversal" Is Making a Comeback - Here's Why It's Dangerous
The idea that an abortion can be "reversed" is a fabrication that's been peddled by foes of abortion for years on end. That's why it's not particularly surprising - but is particularly disturbing - that this dangerous, unproven theory continues to gain traction in a political climate hostile to women's rights. A New York Times Magazine feature published in July has sparked a new round of conversation about this narrative that abortion opponents continue to push, and it's worthy of our attention, particularly because it is so deceitful and dehumanizing.
How the Abortion Pill Really Works
A medical abortion consists of a two-pill treatment, most widely known as Mifeprex or RU486: one pill causes the cervix to dilate and the uterus to shed its lining. A second pill, taken a few days later, causes contractions to terminate the pregnancy. Women are increasingly choosing the abortion pill; in fact, medication abortions made up 43 percent of all abortions provided at Planned Parenthood clinics in 2014, up from 35 percent in 2010. There are some distinct advantages to the abortion pill: it doesn't require an invasive procedure in a medical office, a woman can choose where to be and who to be with during the experience, and, because, it's biologically similar to a miscarriage, people often feel the process seems more natural than undergoing an abortion procedure.
How the Idea of "Abortion Reversal" Spread
The concept of abortion reversal has its roots in a 2012 report coauthored by San Diego physician George Delgado, who has continued to espouse his theory in the years since. The study was wildly flawed from both an ethical and scientific standpoint: it was a survey of only seven women total, being treated by a number of different doctors, and there was no control group. Delgado's own motivations also cast a shadow over the study; he is openly antiabortion himself. He says the impetus for the research was a call he got from LifeSavers Ministries, an antiabortion group, asking for advice from a young woman who reportedly changed her mind after taking the abortion pill. Was there any way to stop the process? Delgado came up with a theory and sought out a doctor willing to help him experiment to test whether it was true.
Delgado's report suggested that women can undergo a progesterone injection to thicken the lining of the uterus after taking the first pill in order to stop the abortion process. But a study published in medical journal Contraception in 2015 found that the first pill alone resulted in a complete abortion from 53 to 88 percent of the time, even if the second pill was not administered. Delgado's study remains the only one ever published on "abortion reversal," and it is purely anecdotal. In fact, the American Medical Association says there is no "credible, medical evidence" that abortion reversal works, and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists insists there are "no reliable research studies that prove any treatment" can reverse the effects of a medical abortion.
How This Medical Myth Led to Several Antiwoman, Antiscience Laws
Despite the complete lack of scientific evidence - and common sense - suggesting that an abortion can be "undone," this irresponsible claim has done much to help undermine reproductive rights nationwide. As recently as March of 2017, states have passed laws that require doctors to tell women undergoing medical abortions that they can change their minds midway through the process - in other words, that they can "reverse" their abortions. Utah's Governor Gary Herbert signed such a bill into law in March of this year; his state joined South Dakota and Arkansas in instituting the legislation. (A similar abortion-reversal law passed in Arizona was struck down by the courts in 2016.)
Why Debunking This Myth Matters
Medical abortions are safe, legal procedures. Serious complications from RU486 are extremely rare, impacting fewer than one percent of women. Laws that promote junk science and force medical doctors to lie to women undermine patient rights, are unethical, and are condescending to grown women who have the ability - and the right - to make informed decisions about their own health care.
Doctors have widely pushed back against these unethical, unfounded laws. But there's a broader story the "abortion reversal" movement tends to ignore: as multiple studies have shown, the "problem" of women who choose to terminate a pregnancy being filled with regret and immediately seeking to "undo" an abortion is an extreme rarity. It plays into a common fear-mongering narrative about regret that antiabortion activists often perpetuate. In fact, recent research bears out that women who choose to abort feel "overwhelmingly" confident about the decision not only in the very short term, but also several years later. Unsurprisingly, the argument in favor of "abortion reversal" fails in the same way research on the method did: by relying on anecdotes and scare tactics rather than actual statistics or facts.
Lush's New Bath Bomb Is Basically a Shooting Star in Your Bathtub
Image Source: Lush
If you're like us, the closest you've ever gotten to being an astronaut is singing "Rocket Man" at karaoke. Lush is here to change that with its newest launch: Rocket Science Bath Bomb ($9).
No big deal or anything, but this bath bomb creates its own fizzy jet streams, which propel it through your tub like a comet in the night sky. If you don't have Boomerang, you might want download the app before this drops on Aug. 15, because this will look good as hell on Instagram.
Of course, it will feel even better on your body. Rocket Science is made of citrus oils, which are known to relieve stress. This is good, because owning this product practically makes us all astronauts, and that's a demanding job!
Image Source: Warner Bros.
All of the Queen's Most Amazing Necklaces
They are worth millions of pounds, and kept secure in the vaults under Buckingham Palace. They represent love, power, and intrigue. Their beauty is famed and their history is unique - one was nearly lost to a royal mistress, one was the subject of investigation, and another has links to ancient history. They are the queen's most impressive and important necklaces, and we have rounded up the top 17 in her majesty's personal collection . . .
How a Mom of 3 Created the Most Efficient Kitchen Ever
Despite having two young daughters and a newborn baby girl, Lay Baby Lay blogger Joni Lay's kitchen is serenity personified. That wasn't always the case, though. Like many people who loathe their kitchens, Joni's biggest gripe with her pre-renovation kitchen was the lack of storage and inefficient use of space.
The chaos of her cramped kitchen only felt heightened by the dated design features she and husband Chip inherited when they bought the house - think black-and-white checkerboard floors and particleboard countertops. When an opportunity to work with Home Depot on a kitchen renovation arose, Joni and Chip jumped at the chance to wipe the kitchen slate clean, and the result is pretty breathtaking.
50 Printable Adult Coloring Pages That Will Make You Feel Like a Kid Again
Life is hard. And sometimes the best thing you can do is put down your iPhone and . . . pick up a crayon! There are lots of benefits to unplugging and coloring, which is why it shouldn't be surprising that coloring books are all the rage among adults looking for a creative way to de-stress. Whether you've already jumped on the coloring wagon or you're just trying it out, at least one of these pages is bound to be just what you're looking for - so get printing!
8 Foods That Can Help Rescue Skin From Sun Damage
There may be few better feelings than lying undisturbed by a beach or pool, or even on your front lawn, while basking in the gentle caress of the sun's warm, glow-inducing rays. But it doesn't take a dermatologist to tell you the risks involved in sunbathing - or simply being exposed to the sun while you're out and about. Of course, you should be slathering on a broad-spectrum sunscreen that contains an SPF of 30 or higher, but that's not all you can do to keep sun exposure at bay. Your diet could help big time, too. A healthy diet high in antioxidant-rich foods can help protect your body from the sun and also fight pesky pimples, grease, and shine. We talked to registered dietitians to learn what sun-protective foods you should be piling high on your plate.
If You Experience Hormonal Breakouts, You'll Thank God For This Mask
I've yet to find a woman who hasn't encountered this issue: you're about to embark on that time of the month, and your skin appears to be mirroring just how annoyed, inflamed, and pissed off you feel on the inside. (If you haven't, please DM me immediately so I can paint a full picture.) But I've found something that has helped my skin during this monthly visit - premenstrual, if you will - and it doesn't require removing my uterus. Yay! In fact, it's a face mask, and it's going to be something you will wish they sold at Costco. Someone just get me a giant vat of this stuff.
The mask comes from Renée Rouleau, Demi Lovato's go-to esthetician and Texas native. She has helped me with two major skin care woes in my life, issues that have plagued me. First, she is the one who identified that I had melasma when I was 25. Mid-20s me thought the dark spots on my forehead and cheeks, which could appear to be shadows to the naked eye, were remnants of my self-tanner that I wasn't able to wash off. (To be young and naive.) It was during a facial at her Dallas location that she gently brought up that I had melasma and informed me of what triggered it: my birth control.
This changed my life. Seriously. I got off birth control, something I was able to do without worry at the time. I stopped upsetting my melanocytes - the cells that produce melanin, or pigment, in the skin - with heated, aggressive treatments. (For the most part.) I wore a hat to the beach and aspired to stay out of the heat in general, knowing the temperature could set my melasma off. And although there's a little bit on my forehead, it's less noticeable than it once was.
Then, a few years later, I had a breakout after leaving the Coachella Valley. God help me. My cheeks were ridden with red bumps and pustules, something I knew wasn't normal, and I realized they recurred each time I left Palm Springs. My (since dropped) dermatologist was quick to prescribe me pills to kill whatever it was, but wanting actual answers, I wrote Renée, who is now based in Austin. She asked me a variety of questions about my weekend that helped her pinpoint what I was experiencing: acne cosmetica. Spending long days in the dry climate with heavy winds and an oil-based foundation meant my pores were being blocked by my foundation and increased my oil production, resulting in what looks like a breakout. She made an easy suggestion: wear powder foundation on your next trip. And you know what? I haven't had a breakout in the desert since!
Now you know that I trust this woman. She dug deeper than my dermatologist bothered to in order to find the right solution. This is incredibly helpful when you're trying to fix any skin issue you have; it is invaluable.
Visiting Renée over Golden Globes weekend, I got a chance to receive a facial and learn about her new products. First, she told me I needed to "put the fire out of my skin." It was inflamed as hell, and I had several cysts that I hadn't battled with in some time. And truth be told, it kind of comes with the territory when you're testing skin care products regularly, but she reminded me that I must be gentle. She took a minute to give my skin a chill pill in the form of a rubber mask, then introduced me to her newest baby, an anti-breakout solution for hormonal acne that won't dry out your skin: the Rapid Response Detox Masque ($61).
Is it too good to be true? No. It works. I've tested it for a month, and I'm currently wearing the sheerest foundation I own - a compact from Laneige - if that gives you any indication. It works to help with clogged pores that result from travel, hormones, and even sleeping with makeup on. Renée suggests it for premenstrual acne to help "disrupt the acne cycle." This is mask is lightweight and dreamy; when it dries, it doesn't feel hard, sticky, or taut. Renée suggests exfoliating before applying the mask, so lightly scrub or use a peel to help get rid of dead skin. The mask itself is a golden, shimmery gel. Slather it on and let the following eliminate your future breakouts: tea tree leaf oil is antimicrobial and an anti-inflammatory that helps with acne bacteria. Helping to stop inflammation is key when it comes to getting rid of your breakouts, which is why she also included lichocalchone, or Chinese licorice, which helps soothe the skin. Manuka branch/leaf oil helps with the microbial - or bacteria - count on your skin's surface, and she included a salicylic acid complex to help exfoliate and reduce oil.
This mask doesn't include parabens, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, SD alcohol, or gluten, which my skin was thrilled about. I use it once a week, and it's recommended you leave on for about 15 minutes. (I tend to go over since I get distracted and forget I have it on.) Many masks take a few minutes to get off because they leave patches of product behind. This slides off the skin easily and leaves your with a glow afterward.
Investing in your skin, period, is always a good idea, but especially during that time of the month. My skin will take any help it can get!
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