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.
vendredi 10 novembre 2017
13 Men's Fragrances That Women Find Attractive
Scent and memory are two things that are closely tied together. And just like your mother is devoted to her signature fragrance, you probably associate certain aromas with the men in your life. We can still recall the smell of Zest bar soap and fresh-cut grass that used to emanate from our dad on the weekends. So in the name of Father's Day, we've compiled our favorite colognes to suit every male personality - the lumbersexual, the dapper corporate climber, and even the adventurous retiree.
45 Balayage Hair Color Ideas to Inspire Your Next Salon Appointment
There's plenty of enviable hair color out there - including a bevy of rainbow looks - but we covet killer balayage highlights the most. As it turns out, we're not the only ones; this color technique is all over Instagram. If we had to guess why it's so beloved, we'd say it's because the popular method makes strands look naturally sun-kissed instead of methodically dyed.
According to colorist Lauren E. Hack, cofounder of Lauren+Vanessa salon in New York, that's because the look is painted on. "The word literally means to sweep [in French]," she explained. "You sweep the color onto the hair strand by strand." The effect resembles the hair's natural highlights. Hack told us that many of her clients bring their young daughters to the salon as examples of the soft highlights they want to mimic.
The technique is ideal for low-maintenance beauties, since the color is applied very carefully so as to avoid lines of demarcation. Thus, the dye grows out beautifully, making it easy to stretch (or even wholly disregard) the time between salon appointments.
Our favorite characteristic of balayage, however, is that it makes fine hair look thicker. "Our hair follicle is thicker at the top and thinner at the bottom," said Hack. "With balayage you are able to create the illusion that the hair is more full at the bottom by painting thin to thick highlights from top to bottom, never seeing where the color begins and ends."
To get the balayage look for yourself, meet with your colorist. "Photos are key!" exclaimed Hack. She suggests you bring images of celebrities who have your dream hair. Then, your expert can consult with you on whether or not your desired color will suit your skin tone, lifestyle, and regimen. Read on to see the technique on various blond, brunette, and red hair hues!
10 Aluminum-Free Deodorants That Actually Keep You Stink Free
You can't talk about natural deodorants without a quick lesson in B.O. 101. First you need to know the difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant. An antiperspirant has chemicals like aluminum to stop sweating altogether. The aluminum salts plug the sweat glands, preventing perspiration. On the other hand, a deodorant masks and neutralizes odor. But where does the stink come from in the first place? When the glands in your armpits emit sweat, the liquid interacts with the bacteria in the area to emit unsavory smells.
Natural deodorants use essential oils like tea tree and witch hazel to curb the bacteria. Some also have other less harmful minerals like zinc ricinoleate and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to keep the underarm area dry without stopping sweat altogether. In addition to getting rid of aluminum, most are also paraben free and safe for sensitive skin. If you're thinking about giving up antiperspirant, start with these 10 formulas that actually keep the stink at bay.
Have You Noticed Kate Middleton Always Wears This 1 Color of Nail Polish?
While we ramp up for a holiday season of bright red nail polish and glitter topcoats, Kate Middleton, like all royals before her, will reportedly refrain from such extra manis. In fact, it's actually rumored to be part of Kate's job description to keep her nails nude. According to British tabloid OK!, royal protocol demands it.
But as we've seen before, that doesn't mean Kate can't wear anything on her nails. In fact, she's somewhat of an Essie aficionado. She rocked a mix of the brand's Rose Lounge (pour one out for this sadly discontinued soft pink) and Allure ($9) at her 2011 wedding to Prince William. She's not alone in her love for the drugstore line - Queen Elizabeth has been wearing the same shade of Essie in Ballet Slippers ($9) for 29 years. This pinky nude hue was created when the queen's hairdresser wrote to brand founder Essie Weingarten in 1988, requesting a bespoke shade for her majesty.
Of course, this rule only applies to public functions (aka pretty much whenever Kate Middleton steps outside of Kensington Palace). So perhaps when she's not being watched, Kate paints on metallics and dances around like she's gone rogue à la that classic 1998 Disney film, My Date With the President's Daughter. Probably not, but a girl can dream.
Ahead, find four nude shades you can rock while you princess-wave.
The Evolution of Queen Letizia and King Felipe's Love
For the past 14 years - since they announced their engagement in 2003 - Queen Letizia and King Felipe VI of Spain have shared with us more than a few sweet moments. Their glamorous wedding in 2004 was a true fairy-tale event; the birth of their two daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, a cause for major celebration; and their everyday official appearances and trips, always total treats where they look smiley and just absolutely happy.
From the way Felipe helps Letizia down the steps every time she's in heels to the mischievous looks and whispers they share at public hearings, it's pretty obvious that the affection between these two lovebirds only gets stronger as time goes by. They truly are one supercute couple - see what we mean by scrolling through their most adorable moments here.
I Have Anxiety, and This Household Activity Has Helped Me SO Much
"Clean house, clear head" rings so very true with me. As someone who is at a constant war with their anxiety, I'm always seeking healthy, straightforward ways to face my mental health head-on. My whole life, I've been what people jokingly called a "neat freak," a trait that I got honestly from my mom. I'm the person people roll their eyes at when I genuinely say that I like to clean. Still, I never realized the value of cleaning beyond a spotless home until I skipped my Saturday morning ritual after a long week and discovered how off-balance I felt.
My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace.
If you suffer from extreme anxiety, you know the feeling of panic that comes over you when things just don't feel right and you don't know how to fix them. It's easy for your whole world to feel off-kilter if just one element of it is disrupted, but cleaning your home can actually help your mental state right itself and restore balance. When I clean my house from top to bottom, I go into a quiet (and private) zone where I let all of my anxieties take the back seat to the task at hand. It's restorative for me, and best of all, I'm left with a sparkling house when all is said and done. Here's how cleaning can help your anxiety.
Cleaning is like meditation.
Nothing helps clear my head of all my frantic thoughts more than putting on music to block everything out and allowing myself to get into the complete cleaning zone. By concentrating on a simple task, I'm able to drown out anxiety by doing something productive and basic. If you're able to focus on your task and force all other negative thoughts out, cleaning can truly have a similar effect for some that meditation does.
It sets you up for a better day or week.
Coming home from a stressful day of work to house full of clutter, dirty dishes, and cat hair forming Texas-sized tumbleweeds of hair can cause me to feel like I may unravel completely. My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace. Spending time over the weekend to give your home a deep-clean can have a major effect on your anxiety, because it takes away a potential element of stress that may be the final straw on a particularly anxiety-ridden day.
It keeps you active.
Although exercise can help anxiety, it's not always for everyone. Unfortunately for me, the more anxious I am, the less prone I'll be to exercise, which can be a vicious cycle. However, cleaning your home is a way to do light exercise, keep your heart rate up, and allow your body to release endorphins, all without having to step foot in a gym.
It yields tangible results.
Anxiety can cause you to be completely overwhelmed. There are times when I feel like there is so much to do, I end up getting stuck on how to start, and I get even less done because of my inability to get past feeling like I'm drowning in unfinished tasks. Cleaning is a simple to solution to this problem. In scrubbing down the bathroom sink or vacuuming the floor, you're able to see tangible results. The manifestation of your hard work is right before your eyes, and this physical evidence of your efforts can be an extreme comfort for an anxious mind.
25 Splurge-Worthy Toys Under $100
Sometimes, when your kiddo has been extra good and you're feeling generous, it's nice to be able to treat them to something nice. Whether it's bringing home a fantastic report card, that they've learned to clean up their room without asking, or just because you want to spoil them this holiday season, toys definitely bring a smile to everyone's face. Any one of these fantastic toys (all of which are under $100), will give them something to really cheer about!
10 Things to Buy a Mom-to-Be - Even If They're Not on Her Registry
Oftentimes, the best baby gifts are those that don't come from a mom's registry list. Miniature shoes and sweet onesies may be adorable to look at, but truly exceptional baby shower presents will give parents-to-be savvy solutions to unforeseen conundrums they may face with a newborn. After all, even parents who love planning ahead may encounter situations they never could have anticipated. Help the mom-to-be in your life take on new parenthood confidently with these 10 essential baby gifts.
Forget About the Box's Instructions; Try Cooking Your Frozen Pizza Like This
If frozen pizza turns out funky for you (burnt spots, soggy bits, general mediocre outcomes), here's a tip from the internet. Forget about the back-of-the-box instructions, and instead, cook your frozen pizza like this guy. Reddit user numbahtwelve says to fully thaw the pizza and crank your oven to the hottest temperature it will go (not the broil setting). Then, cook the pizza on the rack of the oven (unless you own a pizza stone or cast-iron skillet) for five to eight minutes or until the crust crisps and cheese bubbles.
His logic? Restaurants and pizza chains cook the 'za on pizza stones in commercial ovens that are set to 700°F-1000°F. This little hack emulates the professional method without the use of fancy equipment. Now, if you want to be truly fancy, brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle crushed garlic or garlic powder on it, before baking. Mmm . . . seems like a simple yet reliable hack to try for the next frozen pizza night.
Healthy, Easy Lunches That Are Begging to Be Taken to Work
The office can be a stressful enough place as it is, so it's important to plan ahead as much as you can to try to make your workday anxiety-free. One way to do that is to bring a healthy lunch with you, which will prevent you from reaching for packaged snacks or fast food when you're hit with a pang of hunger. These meals are easy to make and even easier to pack. Whether you're trying to lose weight or just get some more nutrition into your body, these lunches will help you reach your goals. Besides, they taste amazing, and isn't that what matters most?
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Your Hair Type
What's your hair type? It's a question that can determine a lot about your daily styling routine. Does your mane fall flat with just the hint of humidity? Are you spending hours twisting your kinks into curls? We've arranged this comprehensive guide from superstraight, fine strands to coarse, kinky locks. Plus we've added celebrity examples to each of the 12 categories so you can be totally sure. To discover your natural texture, wash your hair and examine your strands in the mirror without any styling products. Still can't decide which category you fall in? Your head could have a mix of two or three! Ahead, you'll find product recommendations and styling tips for your specific styling needs. It's like the every girl's guide to getting her best hair day. Ever.
Love what you're reading? Head over to our Snapchat for more awesome, bite-sized content!
These Total-Body Transformations From the BBG Workouts Will Have Your Jaw on the Floor
There are so many reasons we love Kayla Itsines, but chief among them has to be the way she puts the spotlight on others before herself (not a common quality in an Instagram star!). Kayla created the intense workout plan, Bikini Body Guide, which has literally transformed the bodies of women the world over.
You can see that aforementioned spotlight on her Instagram in all the before-and-after photos she regrams. Through positivity, encouragement, and inclusion, she's empowered a community of women all over the world who are working for their best lives and best bodies. From extreme weight-loss journeys to post-pregnancy goals to women recovering from eating disorders and getting strong - we've seen it all on Kayla's Instagram, and each story is incredible.
These transformation before-and-after photos will inspire you, if not outright leave you in tears. The smiles alone on the after photos are tear-inducing; the pride and sense of accomplishment is palpable. Get ready to feel ALL THE FEELS.
6 Ways to Kick Your Run Up a Notch
Somewhere around the first of your three-miler, it hits. You're bored. Or maybe you're hungry. Actually, you have a cramp. Whatever it is, the ugh thoughts start poking in. You begin to wonder if it's possible to continue on or if your time is better spent turning right back around for a rain check with Stranger Things. Maybe it's because you're sore from yesterday's workout or perhaps this is your fourth day in a row of running. Maybe you're just not challenged enough.
Not to fret: stave off boredom for good with these expert tips to kick your next run up a notch.
1. Toss in some strength training.
Some runners like to be just runners. Morning miles, every damn day. The problem with that? As runners, it's common to fall into some sort of quad-dominant scenario where the powerhouse muscles - including the back, glutes, hamstrings, and calves - are placed on the back burner. By incorporating strength work, you can strengthen these important mover muscles and build a more balanced body. This will not only help you become a stronger runner, but will also help prevent injury. Try incorporating strength training in at least once per week to start, suggests Jess Movold, coach at New York City indoor treadmill studio Mile High Run Club. She suggests this circuit, for starters:
Goblet Squats: 4 sets, 12 reps
Stand with your feet wider than shoulder width with toes pointed slightly out. Hold your dumbbell at chest level with both hands. Keeping your back flat, push your hips back, bend your knees, and lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the floor and your elbows touch your knees. With your weight focused in your heels, push yourself up to the starting position.
Bent-Over Row: 4 sets, 12 reps
With a pair of dumbbells and your feet hip-width distance apart, bend at the waist. Keep your back parallel to the floor with a neutral spine, not rounded. With a slight bend in your knees, hold your arms and the dumbbells extended out in front of you. Engage your abs and squeeze your shoulder blades together as you bring the weights to your torso. Be sure to keep your elbows in and pointed upward. Slowly lower the weights back to the starting position to complete one rep.
Push-Ups: 4 sets, 12 reps
Come into plank position with your arms and legs straight, shoulders above the wrists. Take a breath in, and as you exhale, bend your elbows out to the sides and lower your chest toward the ground. Stop as soon as your shoulders are in line with your elbows. Inhale to straighten the arms. This counts as one rep.
2. Stop running forward.
You can be one of two types of treadmill runners. The first type sets a speed and incline right off the bat, zones out, and likely flips the in-unit TV to HGTV or some other mindless show for 45 minutes. The other type uses the treadmill to their full advantage, playing with everything from backward hustle-ups to side shuffles.
"On the treadmill, I love to add side steps, backwards runs, and hustle-ups into my routines," says Lindsey Clayton, trainer at Barry's Bootcamp and cofounder of Brave Body Project. "We move our bodies in 360 degrees of motion, not just forward and back. Adding in some lateral movement will challenge your balance and agility." Clayton suggests adding in side steps as an active recovery to treadmill workouts instead of walking. If you're brave enough to hustle backward, shift the incline to between six and eight percent and then backpedal or do high knees for 30-second to one-minute intervals.
3. Register for a race.
When you find that all of your motivation is totally zonked, whether its with running or a to-do list item at the office, you can renew your sense of purpose by setting some goals. "Finding a race and hitting the 'register' button is a huge motivator," says Movold. "It gives you something to work toward. Get that race on your calendar and set your sights on it!"
4. Find some fun in a fartlek.
OK, the word fartlek is funny. We get it. For the unaware, "fartlek" is the Swedish term for speed play, which means changing your speed for varying distances while out on a run.
"There aren't really any rules to designing a fartlek," says Clayton. "If you're on that track, you could do one slow loop and then sprint for quarter loop, then repeat that 10 times. If you're out on the street, it could be jog until someone says, 'Sprint to that stop sign,' and you go all out. It's a fun way to mix up your training and it's surprisingly hard!" (For more ideas, check out how to do a fartlek run.)
5. Pick a destination that sends you running through new places.
How many times have you suggested to a friend that you go check out a new brunch spot or peep an upcoming museum exhibit? Make your adventure next-level by running to your destination. I recently did this with my boyfriend, heading to an outdoor graffiti exhibit of sorts in Brooklyn. Our route had us weaving through parts of New York City (specifically Queens and Brooklyn) neither of us had explored before, and loads of cool art and crisp brunch ciders were waiting for us at the end of our five-miler.
6. Hit that interval, hard.
You'll be amazed at how fast time goes by when you're constantly varying your speed and overall intensity. Plus, just one minute of sprint intervals can give you a similar cardiorespiratory gains as 50 minutes of traditional endurance training, despite a dramatically lower exercise volume and time commitment, according to one McMaster University study.
Clayton suggests setting your treadmill for 10 minutes and crushing sprint repeats. "Jog for 30 seconds, sprint for 30 seconds, recover for 30 seconds, and progress your sprint by adding speed each time," she says. "It's hard AF, but it will noticeably improve your speed work in a short amount of time."
A Before and After That Proves a Number on the Scale Means Nothing
Last month, I was at the Kayla Itsines Sweat Tour surrounded by Kayla's superfans. I was lying on my back in the grassy field of the Rose Bowl arena in Los Angeles, getting ready to do some bicycle crunches, when a beautiful, chiseled, excited young woman came up to my friend and I, asking, "do you mind if I work out with you guys?"
Instantly, I recognized her face from Instagram - "that's @mysweatlife!" I thought to myself. Known by her handle (and her empowering story), Kelsey Wells is an icon within the BBG community.
Kelsey got down on the grass with us for ab bikes and cheered us on as we went into exhausting (but explosive!) tuck jumps. To be honest, it was one of the more exhilarating moments in my fitness career. Today, her story has been taking the internet by storm - and it's about the amount of weight she lost. You're going to be stunned, trust me. Check it out.
12 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes That Will Make You Forget Your Slow Cooker
This is the year of Buddha bowls, Jackfruit, and the Instant Pot (aka, the one pot that does the work of seven gadgets!). Slow cookers are so 2016! Embrace the latest cooking trend by whipping up one of these good-for-you soups, Paleo-friendly meat recipes, and a hearty lightened-up chili. The best part? There's barely any cleanup involved. We can get into that.
Stay on the Healthy Path This Weekend With These Inspiring Quotes
Wahoo! You made it to the weekend and after a week of eating healthy and crushing your workouts, you're ready to let loose! You should definitely take the end of the week to celebrate a little - you deserve it! But here's your little reminder that come Monday morning, you'll feel much better if you don't go completely overboard.
Take a little time for self-care, get in that longer workout you never have time for during the week, do a little meal prep, and be sure to also rest up! If you need a little motivation, read through these quotes.
Decorate Your Coffee Table With These Gorgeous Beauty Books
If you're looking for the perfect way to inspire a book-lover in your life, these beauty volumes should be on your shopping list. They're good for so much more than keeping glass stains off the coffee table. Each page is packed with hair, makeup, and nail tips from celebrities and industry insiders. Whether you like a good self-help book, prefer a historical drama, or salivate over amazing photography, there is an option in this roundup. Keep reading to kick-start your friend's romance with all things beauty.
The Cutest Pictures of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía of Spain
It seems like just yesterday when King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain announced the birth of their first daughter, so it comes as a total shock that it was 12 years ago that Princess Leonor, the heir to the throne, was born in Madrid. From day one, the little royal graced us with the sweetest pictures (and the most adorable outfits) at family outings and official events.
Then, in 2007, the cuteness doubled with the birth of her sister, Infanta Sofía, and thus began a time of matching outfits, coordinating hairstyles, and mischievous sisterly smiles. Keep scrolling to see the best pictures of the two royals through the years.
6 Korean Eye Treatments That Completely Changed My Skin
Confession: supertired eyes have always been a huge insecurity of mine. I've had puffy bags under my peepers for my entire life, and they've followed me well into adulthood. I've purchased almost every de-puffing brightening stick and eye cream out there, until one day a beauty-addict friend of mine told me that I should check out a few Korean skin care stores. After about two hours of scanning Little Korea in NYC for eye treatments I walked out with a bag full of sheet masks and eye creams I couldn't wait to go home and plaster under my peepers.
To my surprise, nearly every treatment worked! Since my first purchase, I've stuck to only using a few Korean remedies. I've seen significant improvements - brighter, flatter skin under my eyes. While I still sometimes wake up with fish eyes, I now have go-to products that can give me an immediate fix. Keep reading to discover essential Korean eye treatments I swear by.
Natural Oven Cleaner For Baked-On Grime
If you've got a dirty secret hiding in your kitchen, then it's time to take care of it. Instead of purchasing a chemical-filled oven cleaner, make your own to leave your oven looking sparkling clean. And guess what? This DIY costs basically nothing to make and doesn't involve breaking a sweat. You won't be embarrassed to open your oven during dinner parties ever again after trying this homemade cleaning concoction!
What You'll Need:
- 1/4 cup liquid dish soap
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Scrub sponge
- Paper towels
Directions:
- Even if you're dealing with years of baked-on grime (like with this oven), giving it a quick wipe-down with warm, soapy water with a scrub sponge is a great starting point for tackling the mess. Rinse the sponge often to remove grease.
- Mix together the ingredients until it resembles thick glue. The baking soda naturally scrubs without scratching, while the hydrogen peroxide and dish soap tackle all that gunk. Lemon zest offers a fresh scent along with the vinegar.
- Remove the racks and use a paper towel or sponge to smooth the cleaner all over the inside of the oven, including the oven door. You'll see it start working right away, but don't be tempted to scrub! The longer the concoction sits, the better. Once you've run out of cleaner and the oven is coated, shut the door and let it work its magic for at least four hours.
- Open the oven and use a damp scrub sponge to remove the cleaner, and also give a little scrub here and there. It's helpful to have a bucket of warm, soapy water nearby for this step. And without any serious scrubbing, the oven is noticeably cleaner!
- Set your oven to self-clean, and close the door. It's OK if some of the cleaner is hanging around in crevices or on areas that were really baked-on, but the entire oven shouldn't still be coated while it's cleaning. Allow your oven to run its self-clean cycle, and then let cool for at least an hour before the next step.
- Open your oven and use a damp paper towel or sponge to wipe away any remaining cleaner and residue left over from the self-cleaning. The result is a sparkling-clean oven!
30 Roman Numeral Tattoos That Will Mark Your Most Memorable Date
Even if you consider yourself more of a word gal than a number person, you should definitely consider getting a Roman numeral tattoo. Everyone has a number, date, or time that they find meaningful, whether it's a wedding anniversary, a loved one's birthday, or a lucky number. Why not commemorate it permanently with a sleek and timeless Roman numeral tattoo? It's also easy to incorporate an infinity sign or arrow ink with this style, should you want to double up on trends! Read on for some pretty placement ideas.
Drift Off to Sleep With This Yoga Sequence
If you're having trouble settling down before bed, then unroll your mat and give this gentle yoga sequence a whirl. These poses are designed to bring your senses inward and to stretch the areas that are most prone to tension, so your mind and body will feel relaxed and ready for sweet slumber. Brush your teeth, slip into your jammies, turn down the lights, and start stretching.
Think Beyond the Frosty and Get These 5 Healthier Orders at Wendy's
Look: at the end of the day, fast food is fast food. Don't expect to find fresh organic produce and artisanal, seasonal plates at a drive-through. That being said, we've been doing a little digging lately to find the "least bad for you" options at places like McDonald's, Panera, Starbucks, and Taco Bell. The verdict? There are some surprisingly nutritious options, at low prices, on the go.
Next on the agenda is Wendy's. Whether you are traveling, are pressed for time, are in a pinch, or got dragged along, DROP THE FROSTY (a large glass of chocolaty goodness will run you 80 grams of sugar, which is approximately four times your daily limit). Instead, opt for one of these under-400-calorie plates.
Note: If you need a Frosty, or it's your special treat, get the junior size - 200 calories and five grams of protein, but 27 grams of sugar (yikes). It's not the end of the world, obviously, but just be conscious when you're ordering on the go, and factor it into the rest of your healthy, balanced life.
The 5 Things You Need to Stop Believing About Lifting Heavy Weights
When you take a look around the weight room, men almost always take up the space. We've been conditioned to believe that guys like to pump weights while women go for a run or do yoga. This is a dangerous stereotype to believe; there are some serious benefits to be earned from lifting weights on the regular, especially if you're a woman. Whether you're trying to lose weight or grow some lean muscle, it's time to get friendly with that barbell. Let's start by debunking some common myths.
Myth 1: Weightlifting Makes You Bulk Up
"Most women don't have enough testosterone production in their body to put on huge muscle gains and 'get big,'" explained Lauren Clare, personal trainer and certified holistic health coach. That's because women have way less testosterone in their systems than men do (20 times less, to be exact), and testosterone is one of the primary hormones that promotes muscle growth. So when you see those big, bulky guys at the gym, don't panic, because it's not physically possible for you to turn into the Hulk from a strength-training routine.
Similarly, Clare discourages us from believing the photos you might see in bodybuilding magazines. The buff women you are seeing are taking supplements and training extremely hard, she told POPSUGAR. You won't end up anything like that, even if you lift weights several times a week.
Myth 2: Weightlifting Doesn't Burn Fat Like Cardio Does
If you're only running on the treadmill or hitting the StairMaster, you're not giving your body the tools it needs to burn fat efficiently. The secret to losing weight is gaining lean muscle mass, because this will spike your metabolism throughout the day and help your body burn excess fat. However, sticking to a cardio-only fitness program won't give you the chance to build that necessary muscle, which is why weightlifting is so crucial to overall weight loss.
"When women start strength training for the first time, they usually turn their fat into lean muscle and their body changes in overall composition in a positive way," Clare confirmed. "They become leaner, burn more calories, and most importantly feel much stronger."
Myth 3: It Won't Improve Your Cardiovascular Health
Experts say that a rigorous weightlifting program can be just as much of an aerobic workout as a session on the elliptical machine. Weightlifting also keeps your heart healthy, and Clare said it fortifies your bones as well. Cardio isn't the only way to keep your cardiovascular health in check.
Myth 4: Women Aren't Built to Lift Heavy Weights
You may have been conditioned to think that women aren't meant to lift heavy weights, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Your body is built to do amazing things, and more importantly, it's built to be strong. "Weight training is one of the best ways to get your body toner, stronger, and increase your energy levels," Clare said. This is true no matter what gender you are.
Myth 5: It's Better to Lift Light Weights For More Reps
While there's nothing wrong with lifting light weights for higher reps, keep in mind that the only way you actually gain muscle in your body is by consistently introducing your muscles to change. In other words, if you stick with the same low weights over and over again, your body will plateau out and you won't see any significant weight loss. The more you shock your muscles into getting stronger, the leaner you'll look in the end.
These Mashed Potatoes Are Basically Like Cream-Cheese Frosting
Whether it's with cream or extra butter, people are always looking for ways to make mashed potatoes as smooth and rich as they can be. Jeff Mauro, aka the Sandwich King, has a tater trick you'll wish you'd known about a long time ago: cream cheese. The ingredient's mild flavor and thick texture is the perfect tool to make mashed potatoes incredibly velvety. Cream cheese, a stick of butter, and half-and-half are whipped with a hand mixer until fluffy, then combined with diced, boiled potatoes, plenty of garlic, and black pepper.
Already, the potatoes are supercreamy and flavorful (I may or may not have sampled about 10 forkfuls at this point), but the King doesn't stop there; he pours the mixture into a baking dish and drizzles melted butter over the top, baking it until the potatoes are thick and golden brown on the surface. There's a buttery taste in every bite and minced chives add fresh color and crunch. Mauro boldly calls these the "creamiest, butteriest, tastiest mashed potatoes ever," and he definitely isn't wrong. Make these smooth spuds once, and you'll want to bring them to every potluck and holiday gathering you attend - but sharing them will be the hardest part.
Get the recipe: Jeff Mauro's mashed potatoes
25 Holiday-Scented Beauty Products That Will Make You Hungry Just Reading This
It's the moment all basic ladies have been waiting for: the moment we put away the tropical scents and dive head first into Fall (also known as the gateway to all things holiday). No amount of pumpkin spice proves too much as we attempt to turn our own houses into apple- and plum-scented enchanted forests.
We're getting intoxicated just writing about it, which is why we're excited to present to you a comprehensive gallery of all the holiday-scented hair, skin, and body products we could get our hands on.
From cider-drunk hand soaps to creamy, vanilla-drenched body lotions (and plenty of pine- and spruce-trimmed candles in between), read on for 25 products that will support your festive spirit from Fall harvest to New Year's, and sneak peek more holiday 2017 beauty offerings here.
30 Brand-New Fall 2017 Skincare Launches You Need on Your Face, Like, Yesterday
If you've been looking to upgrade your skincare routine, the time is now. That's because some of the biggest players in beauty are pulling out all the stops with some of the most potent ingredients and innovative formulations we've seen in a while, from on-the-spot acne solutions to pollution-removing masks (and a lot of moisturizing creams to keep skin hydrated in between). Keep reading as we showcase some of this season's most exciting skincare reveals, from $14 to $590.
jeudi 9 novembre 2017
These Are the 50 Best Beauty Gifts - All $70 and Under
It's time, y'all. No matter where you fall on the "it's too early to start thinking about the holidays" bandwagon, the reality is that we are less than 60 days from the end of the year. Crazy. So if you plan to do any holiday shopping, there's no better time than now to get a jump on it. And seriously, once you take a peek at all of these goods to give this year, the task will feel way less daunting.
It's likely that even if someone on your list isn't a grade-A beauty junkie, they'll still be into one of these get-glam, wind-down, or refresh-and-treat beauty finds. And in more good news: you don't have to burn through your holiday bonus to finish off your list.
This KFC Fried-Chicken-Scented Bath Bomb Will Make You Smell Finger-Lickin' Good
There's something incredibly soothing about watching a bath bomb fizzle and having the delicate aroma permeate your bathroom. Well, bath bomb aromas just got a little less delicate thanks to KFC Japan's outrageous new promotion: fried-chicken-scented bath bombs. Yes, you read that correctly, and if you've always desired a romantic evening with Colonel Sanders himself, then this is your calling.
The company has joined forces with Japanese retailer Village Vanguard to release an exclusive fried-chicken-scented bath bomb for a limited time. It's shaped like a drumstick and will leave you soaking in deep-fried fragrances. . . if you're into that kind of thing. Or, even better, if you want to fool your roommates into thinking there's a big bucket of chicken waiting for them in the kitchen, leave this bad boy in the tub for a few minutes.
✨#秘伝のコンビパック 発売記念🍗
フォロー&リツイートで毎日100名様に当たる✨#KFCのアノ香り が漂う「チキンの香り?の入浴剤」を🎁
参加者全員に、本物のアノ香りを楽しめる特別クーポンも!11/15〆https://t.co/2tdtyL3UXu http://pic.twitter.com/wvZp85DG73- ケンタッキーフライドチキン (@KFC_jp) November 1, 2017
KFC's eyebrow-raising bath bombs are currently only available in Japan from Nov. 1 through Nov. 15 and will be given out through a lottery. If you are craving some chicken and want to be one of the 100 people receiving the sizzling scent, all you have to do is follow the official KFC Japan Twitter account and retweet the tweet above.
This is absolutely not the first time KFC has shocked our senses with products, and we have a feeling it won't be the last. First came the flavored nail polish in 2016, then chicken-flavored chocolate truffles, and now, the bath bombs to make your entire body finger-lickin' good. What a time to be alive!
The Differences Between Your First Child and Second Child as Told by GIFs
You've had baby number one, and you know that everything involving your little bundle of joy was a kind of learn-as-you-go experience. Now baby number two (or three or four) is on the way, or maybe they've already arrived, and you may notice a few contrasts in your attitude toward preparing for the baby and parenting once there are multiple kiddos. Maybe you haven't thrown caution to the wind completely; things are just . . . well . . . different.
Try Not to Laugh Hysterically at These Notes Home From School
Upon asking, "How was school?" most parents get the response, "Good" - but the truth is, a lot must go on during those six-hour days, and based on some of these notes home from teachers, it sounds like their days are pretty eventful!
Read through to see the hysterical notes, and just try not to laugh!
This Toddler Locking Himself in a Hot Car Is the Scariest Thing You'll See Today
Posted by Kenny Rubin on Thursday, October 19, 2017
Ken Rubin and his wife, Sacnyte, were in for a scare when their young son, Apollo, accidentally locked himself in their hot car for a whopping 37 minutes while they were out shopping at the mall one afternoon.
After Ken got out of the car, Sacnyte quickly shut the door to make room for a car pulling into the space next to them when Apollo grabbed the keys out of her hands and hit the lock button. With both Ken and Sacnyte locked outside, the couple had no choice but to call the police.
Thankfully, the fire department and a nearby Orlando police officer who was on patrol came to the rescue - but the frightening ordeal wasn't over just yet. While they were trying to open the door with a Slim Jim, the first responders noticed how much Apollo was sweating after being stuck inside for 30 minutes. They knew he was in serious danger of passing out and decided to break the window.
"Orlando Police Department and fire department both showed up right away on the spot and helped us out, so we're very grateful they were there to help us, and they're our heroes for the day," Rubin said in an interview with Click Orlando.
After being checked out by paramedics, Apollo officially made it out of the 90-degree car unscathed.
Harry Potter and Voldemort Were Connected in a Way You Won't Believe
Image Source: Everett Collection
Harry Potter fans are no strangers to phoenixes, the type of bird we know Dumbledore's beloved Fawkes to be. But the symbolism behind the phoenix, particularly as it relates to Voldemort and Harry Potter's wands and their connection to one another, will completely shock you.
Ever heard the phrase "rise like a phoenix"? It's a useful metaphor for describing someone who comes back from a difficulty stronger than before, much like the phoenix in Greek mythology who lived for centuries, consumed itself in fire as it weakened, then was reborn from the ashes.
And as we know, Fawkes himself rises from the ashes and is reborn in the Harry Potter series. Fawkes also gave just two of his valuable feathers to be used as the core of a wizard's wand. One feather went into what would eventually become Harry Potter's holly wand. The other, as renowned wandmaker Ollivander revealed early on, went into Tom Riddle's yew wand, making the two wands "brothers." Curious, as Ollivander would say. This common core is also why the unique "Priori Incantatem" spell occurs when the wands connect during Harry and Voldemort's duel in Goblet of Fire.
However, the intricate connections don't stop there, as a Reddit user recently pointed out. Not only do Harry and Voldemort share wand cores, but they also share something much more significant:
I had been wondering why JKR specifically chose a Phoenix tail feather for Harry's and Voldemort's wands, and then I realized: phoenixes die and are reborn. Harry and Voldemort both, at some point, die and are reborn themselves. These books never stop being astoundingly intricate. from harrypotter
Like phoenixes, both Harry and Voldemort have experienced the highly unusual circumstances of dying and being reborn. Harry "rises from the ashes" when he sacrifices himself - the final unintentional horcrux - in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. He allows Voldemort to perform Avada Kedavra on him and even is offered the choice between returning to finish off the dark wizard or to "move on." (Spoiler: he comes back to finish him off.) It can also even be argued that he "rose from the ashes" like a phoenix when Voldemort first tried (and failed) to kill him as a baby.
Of course, Voldemort dies and is reborn several times in the series, both in the metaphorical and physical sense. Tom Riddle as the world knows him "dies" and is reborn as Lord Voldemort, to start. He then is expelled from his physical body when his attempt to murder Harry Potter fails, and he is "reborn" back into that physical form in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (thanks a lot, Wormtail).
It's hard to believe that this is all a coincidence. Instead, it seems like brilliant thinking on J.K. Rowling's part. She connects the mythological powers of a phoenix who can regenerate with Harry and Voldemort's own remarkable returns to life, while also using the core of their wands to further emphasize the significant ways they are tied together, right from the very start.
Image Source: Warner Bros.
Get Up Close and Personal With Swatches From the Gigi x Maybelline Collection
So, you've been eyeing swag from the Gigi x Maybelline collection, but want to see what it looks like IRL before you hit the "checkout" button. Well, we have you covered.
We got our hands on key pieces from the new collection (including palettes, lipsticks, and highlighter) and swatched them all, so you can see the products live before you buy. If you thought they were cool when Gigi debuted her packaging, you'll be running to the drugstore once you see them in action.
Read on to get a better look at all of the products ahead, and watch this space for more swatches!
This Powerful Photo of a Baby Still Connected to His Placenta Shows How Mind-Blowing Birth Is
The first moments of a baby's life are a whirlwind - so much is happening that it's almost impossible to stop and simply appreciate what has just happened. One midwife-turned-photographer, Emma Jean Nolan, took the opportunity to capture the awe-inspiring power of birth with a startlingly beautiful image. In it, a newborn baby is still connected to his placenta by his umbilical cord that is adjusted to spell out the word "love."
Her intention with the image of baby Harper, which was shot just 90 minutes after he was born last week, was to draw attention to an ancient Maori tradition of burying a newborn's placenta after their birth. Nolan wrote on Facebook:
As a Maori baby his placenta will now be returned to the land. The word 'whenua' relates to the placenta and to the land. Whenua (placenta) is returned to the whenua (land) with the pito (umbilical cord) the link between the newborn and papatuanuku (mother earth). With this affinity established, each individual fulfils the role of curator, for papatuanuku (mother earth), which remains life long.
Interestingly, Nolan told us that she'd been planning to take a photo like this for a while but "was waiting for a baby with a long enough cord to spell" the word. She said, "Once I saw how long Harper's cord was, I knew he was the right baby!"
Although this method for honoring the placenta is rare in the US, the Australian photographer's black-and-white image has gotten more than 2,500 "likes" on Facebook in less than a week, probably because it shows readers - even moms - a sight they've likely never seen before: what is actually birthed when a newborn baby enters the world.
How 1 Simple Facebook Photo Motivated This Woman to Lose 80+ Pounds
It was a simple family photo that Cortland West's mom posted to Facebook that threw her weight struggles into focus for her. "When I finally looked at the picture, I was shocked. I honestly didn't recognize myself," Cortland said. And at 5'6" and 236 pounds, she decided that was it: it was time to change. She turned to the Lose It! app to buckle down and really take a closer look at how much she was eating. Between the simplicity of the app and adding in workouts, Cortland has taken off 81 pounds over the past couple years. Keep reading to find out just how well Lose It! worked for her and how she sticks with her new healthy lifestyle.
Cortland: Before
POPSUGAR: What was the moment or motive that made you decide to start your journey?
Cortland West: I always had a problem with my weight gain. I was always the bigger one in my group of friends and I absolutely hated going shopping because nothing cute would ever fit. Overall I just didn't feel good. I was out of breath just simply walking up and down the stairs. I would even receive little comments from my family and other people about needing to possibly start doing something about my weight. They were never hurtful about what they said, but I knew they were right. I would try to lose weight by doing different things, but nothing ever worked for me and I would get discouraged and quit.
The moment that really hit me was at the beginning of December of 2014. I had gone to a tea room with my mother and grandmother one day and we decided to get someone to take a picture of us while we were there. Well, my mother ended up posting the picture on Facebook. When I finally looked at the picture, I was shocked. I honestly didn't recognize myself. I was also a little disgusted in myself on how much I had let myself go. After that, I said that I would for sure work on my weight after the holidays. But then I got to thinking about all of the years prior that I would always say that I was going to do something about my weight at the start of the new year but would never stick with it. So I decided on that day that I would start before the holidays. It was hardest thing I've ever done, but I knew it was what I had to do.
PS: What made you choose Lose It?
CW: Someone recommended the Lose It! app to me as a great way to easily count calories, so I downloaded it and began to plug in everything I would eat in a day. I didn't realize just how much I was eating in a day until I began using Lose It! - I was shocked. I started paying attention to portion sizes and cut out regular soft drinks and sweet tea. I saw that drinking calories can add up very fast!
Cortland: After
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
CW: I love going on long walks. I'd say an hour to two hours long, like two times a week usually. Going on a long walk with a good friend is better for me too because we end up talking throughout the duration of the walk and we end up losing track of the time. Because of my weight loss, I can go on long walks easier now and it doesn't bother me like it used to. Before my weight loss, I would get tired and winded very quickly and my legs would start to really bother me, but I don't have those problems anymore. Playing tennis is also a lot easier for me again because I can last a lot longer than before. I used to get really tired and winded after just a few games in the first set of a match - now three sets of tennis is nothing!
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
CW: I like to go on hikes and enjoy fun physical activities outside - basically anything to keep me away from sitting on the couch all day and watching TV like I used to. But I'll be honest, going to the gym was never something I did, and it's still not a regular part of my lifestyle. It just shows that simply watching what you eat and staying active can help you lose weight.
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
CW: I go on long walks with friends and do fun dance exercises in my room. I've also started to really get back into tennis, which has really helped. To keep myself on track, I remind myself that if I exercise, I'll burn off extra calories which makes it easier to truly enjoy a good meal.
Cortland: Before
PS: How much weight have you lost?
CW: I weighed 236 pounds in 2014, and now weigh 155 pounds - so I've lost 81 pounds!
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
CW: Oh wow, I have many rewards from losing weight. Finally getting to wear cute outfits has been a big one for me. Also, I was always the one to hide behind the camera. I never wanted my picture taken. But now I love when a camera comes out, because as soon as I see myself in the picture, I can't help but smile. I'm so proud of myself and I love having it documented. Looking at pictures of me now also help with keeping the weight off. I never want to go back to what I was before. People have also told me that I'm an inspiration to them to start losing weight. I still find that weird because I've always been one to say if I can do it, everyone can do it. But I do have to admit, hearing someone tell you that you're an inspiration is such an amazing feeling and the biggest award you can receive, I think.
Cortland: After
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
I track my weight loss with Lose It! I only use the free version of the app, which works great for my needs. I know that they also have a Premium version for $39.99/year that lets you set more specific goals (like body fat, steps, measurements, blood pressure, etc.) and gives you more access to challenges and groups, but I haven't tried that yet.
When you first start using Lose It!, it will ask for your basic information (age, weight, height, etc.) and then it will calculate for you the amount of calories you will need to eat in a day to either maintain your weight or lose half a pound a week, one pound a week, one and a half pounds a week, two pounds a week, etc., depending on what your goals are.
When I first started, I was determined to lose two pounds a week, but man was that hard! I felt like I wasn't eating at all in a day. So I changed it to one pound a week and that really worked best for me at the beginning.
Each day, all you need to do is open up the Lose It! app, tap the meal you're logging, and type your food into the search bar (or take a photo of it using their new Snap It feature). Lose It! gives you the calories and nutritional information for whatever food you are logging and that goes toward your daily total. The app suggests how many calories you should allocate for each meal based on your weight-loss goals and current weight, and that even includes snacking.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
CW: The main things I cut out of my diet were regular soft drinks and sweet tea. Drinking calories adds up very fast and I didn't like wasting my calories on beverages. I also cut back on a lot of junk food, especially chips - I still eat them, but not as often. Unfortunately I am not a big fan of fruits and vegetables, but I drink V8 and things like that to help with that. I do eat plenty of protein, though! Grilled chicken is probably my favorite. I eat more grilled foods now than I did before. I was all about everything being fried before I started losing weight.
Cortland: After
PS: Do you count anything other than calories? Why or why not?
CW: No, calories are the only thing I count. I feel as though if I started trying to count other things, it would make things harder and I would not stick with it.
PS: What's the range of calories you eat per day?
CW: According to the Lose It! app, I can have 1,675 calories per day to lose one pound a week. But I sometimes go over that a little bit.
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
CW: I'm not a fan of fruits or anything, so I would say my go to staple would be string cheese. Very low in calories and it's a nice grab-and-go snack that I love.
Cortland: After
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
CW: For meals out, I generally try to know ahead of time what the plans are and where I am going. If that's the case, I can look up the menu online so I can go ahead a plan out what I'm going to eat. Restaurants are getting better about adding the nutritional information available, so that makes planning out meals so much easier. If that information is not available, I tend to compare different foods with other places that I know the calories of. Sometimes I even overestimate a little bit just to be safe.
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker? Which one? Has it helped you?
CW: In the beginning of my journey I had a Fitbit tracker that I would use. It even linked with my Lose It! app. So it would calculate the calories I would burn after a long walk or some other kind of physical activity and then add those calories back to my remaining budget on the app. I loved it. But I unfortunately lost the tracker one day at the lake so now I use my Apple Watch, and whenever I do an activity, I start the watch under the fitness app and it will calculate the calories burned. I then go to the Lose It! app and it lets me manually add the calories burned back to my remaining budget.
PS: What role did Lose It! play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
CW: Lose It! was a HUGE part of my journey and I would absolutely recommend. Probably the most helpful thing it did for my diet was help me pay attention to portion control. Simply cutting back on the amount of food I was taking in has helped me the most. Another helpful thing I did was plug in everything I was going to eat for that day into Lose It! at the beginning of the day, which left me reassured that I could enjoy snacks with the calories that were left. I would ask my family what we were doing for dinner so I could go ahead and plug it in and eat around that meal for the day. In the beginning, I did a lot of planning ahead, but now that I am just maintaining my weight, I'm a little more lenient with myself.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
CW: My number one tip would be to just find what works for you and stick with it. For me, Lose It! was the only thing that would work for me. Trust me, I know it's hard; everyone is so different and we all lose weight in different ways. You just have to learn to listen to your body and believe in yourself! You CAN do it.
Crush Your November Health and Fitness Goals With These Must-Have Products
Cooler weather is blowing in this month and brings these cool health and fitness products with it. Here's a look at what we're loving this November.
The 1-Second Trick That Will Make Doing a Plank Infinitely Easier
When you are short on time but want to fit some quality strength moves into your fitness routine, planks are an excellent option and one of the best ways to build strength and stability in your core. One of the most important things to be mindful of when performing planks is correct form, as doing the exercise incorrectly not only won't improve your strength, but it can also eventually lead to discomfort and potential injuries.
"People generally start to feel discomfort in their shoulders, which may indicate that their elbows are not directly beneath them and they have not engaged their core, leading to the shoulders taking a lot more strain then they need to," said Victoria Webster, a certified personal trainer at Suite Time Fitness in Houston. "Another thing to look out for is low back discomfort. This is a sign that your core is collapsing and your back is sagging down."
There are many variations on plank exercises, but one of the most basic is the forearm plank. Follow these steps to ensure you are performing the exercise correctly:
- Find a space in front of a mirror so you can check your form.
- Lie on your stomach, bring your elbows directly under your shoulders, and flip your toes under your feet
- Exhale and lift your body off the ground. Your body should be in one straight line with a flat back, your butt down and your core engaged.
- Actively draw your belly button up into your spine. Your hands can be grasped in a "prayer" position or parallel to each other.
- Check yourself out in the mirror and lift your midsection back into that strong, straight line you had initially
Don't get too preoccupied with how long you can hold a plank, either. "There is no reason, ever, to hold a plank for five minutes. One or two minutes are good goals to work up to; anything more than that and you'll likely begin to lose form," Webster said. "Personally, I like to do several sets of 90- to 120-second planks, alternating with a low back exercise, for balance."
Finally, don't forget to breathe. "As a trainer, I find that when people are doing exercises that are difficult, and especially if they're being timed, they hold their breath. Nice, slow, controlled breathing will help you through the exercise," Webster said.
MORE Lisa Frank Makeup Is Coming - and It's All Under $8!
Heads up: you can now make your eighth-grade self very, very jealous. Just take a look at this Lisa Frank x Glamour Dolls Collaboration that's here to make your vanity '90s fabulous again. If this news sounds familiar, that's because this isn't the first time the cruelty-free and vegan brand has released a line inspired by the creator of those crazy, colorful, often unicorn-themed cartoons. Back in July, the affordable brand released $5 makeup brushes in collaboration with Ms. Frank.
The brand just announced that it's rolling out two more products, and the great news is you can use the existing brushes to apply these new products. And you can still afford the Lisa Frank x Glamour Dolls collection on your preteen budget, because both releases cost less than $10.
Read on to see what rainbow-cheetah-printed gifts Glamour Dolls will release on Nov. 11. But be sure to set a calendar alert, preferably to a Spice Girls song, because back in July, those makeup brushes sold out in less than 24 hours! (The brand did eventually restock the tools.)
Newsflash: THIS Is How You Should Actually Be Cutting Your Round Cakes
Well, it looks like we've been cutting our birthday cakes the wrong way all this time. The viral video above has brought our wrongdoing to the light of day and provides us with an unexpected alternative - one that involves rectangular slices instead of the tried-and-true triangular ones. Mathematician Alex Bellos begins the clip by explaining that cutting a cake into wedges causes the sugary dessert to dry out if left in the refrigerator overnight. Instead, he advises making your first slice right down the middle so you can push the cut halves back together to preserve your leftovers' moistness overnight - because there's nothing more disappointing than a dried-out cake!
Watch the video above to see Bellos describe why it's about time you adopt this scientifically proven cutting method. You'll definitely want to add this genius tip to your list of must-know food hacks.
9 Spaghetti Squash Recipes That Cut Carbs and Add Flavor
If you follow a gluten-free, Paleo, or Whole30 diet, chances are, you miss pasta. We don't blame you. Heck, maybe you don't follow any of these diets, but are just looking to lighten things up a bit. Say hello to your friend, the spaghetti squash. A great stand-in for noodles, spaghetti squash soaks up all the delicious flavors of the sauce it cooks with. Add to that its high fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A content, and it's a great veggie to have even if you're a member of the I Love Carbs club.
Pack a Different Healthy Lunch Every Day This Month With Over 30 Fresh Recipe Ideas
The holidays are almost upon us, but don't lose sight of your healthy goals! Kick-start your healthiest season yet and bring clean, wholesome, nutritious lunches to work.
From warming Fall soups to fresh salads and mason jar bowls, you can chill, reheat, and pack - meaning these meals are totally office-ready. Best part? They're low-calorie, high-protein, and made with whole, natural ingredients. Who's hungry?
7 Real People Show How They Finally Managed Their Acne With Accutane
If you've ever suffered from severe acne, you know how frustrating - and even depressing - managing your complexion can be. The blemishes can also be painful and, even worse, resistant to both over-the-counter treatments and prescription medication. In these instances, some dermatologists will prescribe Accutane, a form of vitamin A that limits the amount of sebum produced by the skin's oil glands and reduces blemishes.
For some folks, this drug works miracles. Many people have shared their experience and before-and-after photos from their time on Accutane on Reddit and Imgur, explaining how it has improved their lives.
Though it is effective, those considering taking it should heavily evaluate all their options with a dermatologist before getting a prescription for Accutane. It's a very powerful drug that can cause severe birth defects, and can also affect your mood, vision, and appetite. But if you're struggling with severe acne and looking to make a dramatic change, the following (incredible!) skin transformations may inspire you. Read on and click through each gallery and prepare to be amazed.
Bésame's New Snow White Line Has Finally Arrived
The holidays just got even more magical thanks to Bésame Cosmetics. The vintage-inspired makeup brand teamed up with Disney to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' release with the launch of the Disney Snow White - The 1937 Collection.
The massive collection includes lipsticks, eye shadow palettes, and blushes inspired by the original colors used in the film. Bésame founder Gabriela Hernandez based the hues on the Disney Studio Ink and colors created for the film, instead of the more vivid hues we see in remastered editions of the animated film.
Disney fans will go gaga for the attention to detail that Bésame included in the collection. The standout product in the collection is The 1937 Storybook Palette ($68), which was previously available for presale at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, CA. The beautifully designed palette looks like a storybook and includes a cream and gold slip cover and green satin bookmark. When you remove the slip cover and open the palette, you unveil a large mirror and an illustration of the princess herself.
If that wasn't cute enough, the next page has written directions on how to achieve the princess's look and a peek behind the scenes of the palette's production. As you flip to the next page, a table of contents is revealed. This tells you exactly which colors in the palette were used on Snow White in the film and where the shades are seen in the movie.
The shadows themselves are beautifully muted hues, and the collection includes enough neutrals to utilize the palette every day. There are 20 shades total, making this palette well worth the price tag. Keep reading to see all the products in the massive collection, and head to Bésame's website to shop the makeup and get the perfect gift for the Disney fan in your life.
This Beautiful Lip Balm Duo Will Prevent Your Lips From Looking Beastly
Lip balm isn't the most exciting beauty product - unless, of course, it's an enchanted balm, like the Mrs. Potts and Chip Lip Balm Duo ($12) from Firebox. The adorable set includes two delightfully Disney-themed balms shaped like the beloved teapot and cup from Beauty and the Beast.
Not only do the bite-size balms look adorable, but they also come in two delectable flavors. Mrs. Potts contains pink strawberry, while opening Chip reveals a purple grape version. The duo is small enough to keep in your purse, and the sweet packaging will make you want to take it everywhere with you. Just be prepared to hear a collective "Ooooooh - where did you get that?" each time you use it.
LaCroix Hair Is a Thing, Because of Course It Is
With only 54 days left in the year, we've reached peak 2017. That's because LaCroix hair is officially a thing, and honestly, I'm a little shocked it took this long for Instagram's most famous beauty trend (rainbow hair) to get it on with the app's soft drink of choice.
LaCroix hair comes courtesy of a project the brand Scruples Hair Care dreamed up with eight stylists. The theme of the looks is titled LaCroix Before Boys, and it should probably be your new life motto. (That rhyming catchphrase also ends the age-old debate on how the drink should be pronounced - it's La-CROY, people.)
Even if you don't drink sparkling water, you'll love the looks, which are rainbow-hair perfect. So crack open a fizzy Pamplemousse and take a gander at the most #millennial thing you'll see all day.
9 Beautiful Beaches Where Clothing Is 100% Optional
If you're one of those people who just loathes having tan lines, then may I suggest you check out a beach where clothing is completely optional? Yes, there are a slew of beaches across the world where nudity is celebrated and no one has a care in the world. You may even be surprised to know that there are some right here in the United States. If being free to bare it all sounds like the perfect way to spend your next vacation, consider one of these nine lovely locales.
Mom's Note to Stranger at McDonald's Who Got Involved When Her Toddler Wouldn't "Go Potty"
A stranger in a McDonald's bathroom overheard a typical fight between a mom and her toddler: the Kansas parent was trying to reason with her 3-year-old to pee before they left to get back in the car.
The stranger listened in as Tiffany Miller tried to explain to her daughter that it was a long drive home and she had to use the potty before they left. She also heard the child explain that she was afraid the toilet was going to flush while she was sitting on it. Despite her mother promising to block the sensor and prevent it from flushing, the little girl wouldn't comply, and promised to make it through the drive home without having an accident.
In a heartfelt thank you to this stranger posted on her Facebook, Tiffany explained what happened when the woman decided to step in. "You told her you would give her a bracelet if she would go potty for Mommy. She perked up and agreed," Tiffany wrote. "I turned to quickly put her on the potty (before she changed her mind). You told her the bracelet would be waiting outside the stall for her. I turned to say thank you, but you were already gone."
When the child finished using the bathroom she found a bracelet and a candy bar waiting outside her stall. "Her eyes lit up as she put the bracelet on after using the bathroom," Tiffany wrote. "We made it home to Wichita safely and she is currently sleeping soundly next to me . . . still wearing the bracelet."
Although the woman was gone before Tiffany could catch her name, she's grateful for this stranger's act of kindness: "I wish I could have thanked you in person, but maybe you will see this. If not, hopefully it inspires someone else to be kind like you were."
This post was originally published on Jan. 30, 2017.
39 Great Gift Ideas For 1-Year-Olds
Whether it comes in the form of crawling, scooting, or taking those first few steps, one thing's for certain - 1-year-olds are active little people! That's why it's important to provide them with toys that will satisfy their desire to explore the world around them and provide plenty of action. Check out our favorite picks, from push-along toys and blocks to shape sorters and more.
The Best Gifts For 2-Year-Olds
Queen Letizia's Palaces Might Be Even More Glamorous Than Her Fashion
Queen Letizia of Spain is known for her philanthropic work in the fields of education, innovation, and nutrition, as well as for her fresh contemporary style, but her home life with husband King Felipe and their daughters Princess Leonor, 12 and Princess Sofía, 10 is pretty much kept under wraps. So where do Letizia and her family live, and what does their home look like? Which personal touches have been added, and which priceless antiques remain? We have all the info you need to know on Queen Letizia's royal palaces . . .