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.
samedi 5 mai 2018
80 of the Best Kid-Friendly Recipes
Kids love macaroni and cheese, pizza, and lasagna, but the same old recipe gets boring for kids and adults. Mix things up with reinvented recipes and spins on the traditional and try one of these dishes. Tried and tested by moms, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites - from 30-minute pasta recipes to slow-cooker dishes that take only minutes of prep work. Invite your child into the kitchen to help make one of these quick and easy kid-friendly recipes tonight.
20 of the Most Unusual and Cute Baby Boy Names of 2018
One of the most exciting things on your "before the baby arrives" to-do list is picking out a special name. Perhaps you're looking to rebel against your parents, who named you one of the most common names from the year you were born (to be fair, everyone was doing it!), or you're just looking to give your future child a unique identity. If you want a name that not many other kids in his class will have, we have a list for you. If you are avoiding commonly used named like Adam, Michael, Chris, and Nick, add these unique boy names of 2018 to your short list.
- Alber
- Apolo
- Atticus
- Binx
- Blaze
- Danger
- Hopper
- Jett
- King
- Rebel
- Remington
- Saint
- Viggo
- Waldo
- Wilder
- Wolf
- Zane
- Zephyr
- Zevon
- Ziv
Babies Only Get to Relax For a Few Months After Birth Before They Start Teething
There are so many stages new moms look forward to when they welcome their precious little baby into the world, but teething isn't one of them. When my children started teething, it was grueling for all of us. They were in pain, and I was in pain watching them hurt, knowing I couldn't do much to help. My firstborn was especially difficult for me because I had never experienced it before, and he was typically such a happy, content baby. But when those teeth started popping through around 6 months old, he couldn't sleep and seemed to cry all day long.
Turns out, he began teething right on target at 6 months. Although this is the average age, babies can begin teething as early as 3 months and as late as 1 year old. No matter when they start, your little one should have 20 primary teeth by the time they're 3.
The two bottom front teeth typically come first, followed by the upper front teeth. While this is the typical order, it doesn't always occur this way. If your baby gets different teeth in first, don't be alarmed. There are also many symptoms that come along with teething that shouldn't be a major cause for concern, including fussiness, sleeplessness, sore and pink gums, incessant drooling, and clinginess (just to name a few). The good news is that once those new teeth break through the gums, babies usually bounce back to their happy demeanors.
When your baby gets those first few teeth, it can feel like a delightful milestone has been met, whether that first tooth pops through as early as 3 months or they have to chew their first birthday cake with their gums. So although the process can be grueling, those toothy smiles are well worth it in the end.
Ridiculously Awesome Swimsuits That Show Off Your Geeky Side
When the sun comes out, sometimes it's too hot for fangirls to rock their comic book t-shirts and Star Wars paraphernalia. What's a geek to do?! Well, thanks to these supercute swimsuits, you can show off your nerdy side all Summer long. There's a bathing suit here to fit every geeky girl's tastes, from Game of Thrones to Doctor Who. Which one are you most excited about?
The Best Smart-Home Devices of 2018
We may have only learned to embrace the smart home in 2017, but 2018 is shaping up to be the year we finally take our technology to the next level - and let it do all the heavy lifting in our homes. Regardless of whether you've just dabbled or full-on decked out your home, ahead you'll find the products that we're quickly finding we can't live without and highly recommend you try out for yourself. From vacuums to thermostats to lighting and more, it's clear that the sky's the limit when it comes to the many, many tasks you can delegate to your digital assistant. Be sure to check back in here often, as we'll be updating this list as more devices are released over the coming year.
18 Hilarious Sext Message Fails That Will Make You LOL
No matter the stage of your relationship, one thing about sending a sexy text message stands true: sexting is a lot harder than it seems. While you may try to be cheeky with your boo, sometimes things just come out wrong, resulting in painfully hilarious conversations.
But if you're terrible at sexting, the good news is you are not alone. We've gathered some incredibly awkward screenshots that prove being a bad sexter is nothing to be ashamed of - in fact, it's actually pretty funny. Read on to check them out.
The 13 Best AR Apps and Games You Need to Download Right Now
Augmented reality – or AR, as it's more commonly known – is one of those things that lots of people talk about, but very few actually understand. Aside from being the phrase that was (loosely) used to denote the real-life component of Pokémon Go, or used to describe the 3D bitmoji that now live in Snapchat, it's the underlying technology that allows you to mash up real life and the imaginary by simply pointing your phone's camera lens at the world around you. And with the release of Apple's iOS 11, the ability to use it comes standard on every Apple device – and it's high time we all start using the rad new technology we've got at our fingertips more often.
To help you out a bit, we've tested a whole lot of the app offerings in the App Store in to come up with the very best in AR apps and games that are available to download right now. Ahead, click through 13 of these delightfully future-forward apps – all of which will help you get cracking on being the first of your friends to master the latest in ubercool tech.
30+ Pretty iPhone Wallpapers That Don't Cost a Thing
You'll need wallpaper as elegant and eye-catching as your iPhone, so we've gathered some beautiful background options for your device that won't cost a thing.
To download these backgrounds from your desktop, enter full-screen mode by clicking on each photo, then right-click on the wallpaper image to save it to your computer. Text or email the picture to yourself, and save the wallpaper to your camera roll. Change your background by viewing the wallpaper in camera roll, tapping the share button, and selecting "use as wallpaper."
If you're viewing this on your iPhone, press and hold down on an image to open it up, click "save image," and then tap the share button and select "use as wallpaper." Voilà! Extreme Makeover: iPhone Edition is now complete.
7 Spell-Binding Documentaries About Drugs to Watch on Netflix
Whether you're intrigued by the drug trade or simply want to educate yourself through documentaries, you might have guessed you can do that from the safety of your own home. Netflix's recommendations are not always easy to navigate, so we've gathered the best movies about drugs you can enjoy.
"Witness" This Moody, Mad Max-Inspired Wedding and Prepare For Serious Chills
Mad Max might not be the first film that comes to mind when planning for a wedding theme, but this styled shoot will make you question why! Complete with moody bridal attire, a hodgepodge of reclaimed-style decor pieces, and edgy, studded fashion accessories, the shoot took place in a greenhouse setting . . . but looks like a movie set!
"Our Mad Max-inspired installation was meant to be somewhat of a random collection of items found in an old gas station or garage but prettied up with some delicate softer pieces. We used tires, cinder blocks, and metals, as if found randomly at a garage. The overgrown wall of florals balanced the edgy and weird, keeping it pretty, punky, yet oddly practical," said planner and designer Jessica Kuipers of Onyx & Redwood. "Why not have fun pushing the boundaries?!"
Prepare for serious chills as you "witness" these stunning Mad Max-inspired photos from Anna Delores Photography. Who says you can't sit on truck tires at your reception?
Ever Dreamed of Going on Vacation With the Property Brothers? We've Got Good News
Have you ever sat down to watch your favorite HGTV show and thought: "This is nice, but I'd like to take it to another level - preferably with buffet meals and sunscreen?" Probably not, but most of us know what it's like to strive for a special connection with the people we admire; it's why we cook recipes developed by celebrity chefs, or buy decor designed by TV hosts. For fans of The Property Brothers, an exciting opportunity to enjoy a special level of access to Jonathan and Drew Scott is officially here . . . and it involves a trip to the Bahamas!
Get ready to cruise with your favorite dudes, because Sailing With the Scotts lets you do just that! Embarking in December 2018, the four-night cruise is perfect for any HGTV junkie who can't get enough of The Property Brothers and the rest of the Scott brothers' roster of projects. Keep reading for more information about the trip, then visit the site for full details!
What's Included?
The Scott-infused cruise itinerary is operated by Royal Caribbean, and will sail on the newly remodeled Mariner of the Seas. According to the Sailing With the Scotts website, the voyage will include: "Design workshops, meet-and-greets, an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the latest season of Brother vs. Brother, themed parties, incredible food, and live entertainment, plus exotic ports of call in CocoCay and Nassau." Count us in!
Where Does It Dail?
The December 3 through 7 cruise itinerary begins and concludes in Miami, FL, with one full day at sea, a day in Nassau, and a day in CocoCay. If you've never visited the Bahamas before, now is your chance!
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost per traveler ranges from $809 to just under $2,200, depending on which stateroom you desire aboard the ship! This price includes taxes, gratuities, and the cost of the cruise itself (including meals and entertainment). Plus, the Scott brothers are donating $25 to a special charity for every cabin booked on the cruise.
A Woman Just Signed the Most Restrictive Antiabortion Bill in America Into Law
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds was surrounded by local schoolchildren and hounded by protesters on May 4 as she signed the state's "fetal heartbeat" act into law. The legislation - which has caused a major uproar among proponents of women's and reproductive rights - is the strictest abortion ban in the country.
Reynolds signs #FetalHeartbeat bill as chants of "My body my choice" echo from outside the office. @KCCINews @CBSNews pic.twitter.com/F2Mq5bCPUR
- Chris Gothner KCCI (@CGothnerKCCI) May 4, 2018
The "fetal hearbeat" law would require physicians to perform an abdominal ultrasound on any patient seeking an abortion. If a fetal heartbeat can be detected, the procedure is illegal. Fetal heartbeats can often be heard at around six weeks of gestation - before many women even realize they are pregnant. In other words, the law would grant women less than two weeks after a first missed period to confirm their pregnancy with a doctor and make important, life-changing decisions about their bodies and futures.
The Iowa law echoes a rash of similar state-level antiabortion laws that have been passed and challenged in courts in recent years. These laws widely seek to erode women's ability to access abortion by establishing barriers to the procedure, whether by instituting mandatory waiting periods, challenging the medical licenses of abortion clinics, or even requiring doctors to provide patients seeking abortions with their professional résumés - in a specific font.
"I believe that all innocent life is precious and sacred," the Des Moines Register reports Reynolds as saying shortly before signing the bill into law. "And as governor, I have pledged to do everything in my power to protect it. And that's what I'm doing today."
The reaction to the signing from women's rights advocates was strong and swift. Planned Parenthood and the ACLU have both vowed to file suit against the law, which is set to go into effect on July 1.
"This is a sad day for women and families in Iowa," NARAL Pro-Choice America President Ilyse Hogue said, in part, in a statement shared with POPSUGAR. "This law is not just about the women and families of Iowa; it's about all Americans having the right to decide if, when, and how to have a family. This should be deeply concerning to anyone who believes women should be allowed to make decisions about their bodies and control their destinies, and we now look to the courts to defend our essential human rights."
The most powerful and chilling comment on the law may have come in the form of this tweet from Hogue's organization:
Welcome to Iowa. pic.twitter.com/OfNusVHoMU
- NARAL (@NARAL) May 4, 2018
vendredi 4 mai 2018
6 Unforgettable Royal Wedding Gowns That May Hint at What Meghan Markle Will Wear
Millions around the world are waiting with bated breath to see what dress Meghan Markle will wear for her big day. Sources close to Markle told Vanity Fair last month that the royal-to-be will actually have two dresses, but we won't get a peek until the big day. No official details regarding the royal wedding dress have been released, which only leads us to speculate more. Will she employ a British designer? Will she go simple, like Princess Margaret, or elaborate, like the queen herself? With Kate Middleton's stunning Alexander McQueen dress from 2011 still on our minds - H&M recently released a version for less than $300! - the bar has been set high.
Here's a look back at some of the most unforgettable royal wedding gowns . . . and how Meghan may draw inspiration from them.
10 Athleisure Pieces You Need to Own - Because Who Really Likes Wearing Jeans?
Athleisure is a trend we're not sick of. The fact you can get away with wearing sweats and sneakers basically anywhere these days is something we can get behind. If you're a professional lounger or at least like to dress like one, you're in luck. We looked to Aritzia because this trendy Canadian retailer is filled with sporty picks and chic clothes we can't get enough of. From full-on sweat outfits to basketball-inspired clothes, prepare to want to own it all.
Ashley Graham Is the Personification of Sexy, and All of These Looks Prove It
Ashley Graham had us shook when her Swimsuits For All Summer 2018 campaign debuted in May. It featured the 30-year-old model in completely unretouched photos looking like a true swimsuit queen. Earlier this year, she also signed her first beauty contract as part of Revlon's Live Boldly campaign. Needless to say, 2018 is turning into one of Ashley's best years yet, so we're celebrating by taking a look at some of her best looks so far. Ashley is a force to be reckoned with, and don't you forget it! Keep scrolling to see the gorgeous photos.
Rihanna Wishes She Had Worn a Bedazzled Thong With This Sexy, See-Through Dress
Vogue's June cover star has finally been revealed, and it's none other than Rihanna! The sultry singer sat down with editor Chioma Nnadi to talk about her highly anticipated lingerie line, Savage, as well as some of her biggest fashion regrets.
During the interview, Rihanna admitted her biggest style regret was the supersheer Adam Selman dress she wore to the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards. The dress itself wasn't the issue, though, it was the fact her nude underwear didn't match her skin tone, or as she put it, "not my nude." Looking back, Rihanna wishes she had styled the see-through dress with a bedazzled thong instead!
Scroll on to see more images from her gorgeous cover story and read more quotes from the interview.
Can You Live Stream the 2018 Met Gala? Here's Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to scoring a ticket to the Met Gala, the rules are set in stone. But when it comes to watching the red carpet arrivals at fashion's biggest event, each year is unique. For 2018, the theme is "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," and Amal Clooney, Rihanna, and Donatella Versace will play host alongside Anna Wintour.
E! News has confirmed red carpet coverage with the program airing at 6:30 p.m. ET and being hosted by Giuliana Rancic and Zuri Hall, who will be on location for interviews. Vogue has broadcasted snippets from the carpet in years past on Facebook as well. Of course, we'll also be writing up a storm about all the looks you're dying to see right here. Once everyone heads inside, save for the illegal celebrity selfie, you won't see Hollywood's A-listers again until the afterparties ensue.
20 Outfit Ideas For Mexico, So You Know Exactly What to Wear When You Land
Ok, so your flight to Mexico is booked. You've started an itinerary with friends (and identified the most Instagram-friendly spots). You're pretty much all set, except for . . . the outfits! While you could just wear anything, fashion-lovers know packing for a trip means curating a wardrobe that's equal parts comfy and stylish. Dressing up is part of the vacation experience (when else are you going to wear those lemon earrings!?), and it's a nice break from your day-to-day office looks. Though we know your closet is likely stocked with all the right pieces for your trip (if not, shop some items here), you might need some ideas for how to wear them.
Have no fear, we looked to a bunch of travel-savvy influencers who have that vacay look on lock. We're showing you 20 easy outfits to put together, whether it be with dresses, denim shorts, or even jeans. Forget rushing to pack the night before your flight; you'll sleep in comfort knowing every single outfit has been planned out. Plus, of the estimated 35 million tourists that visit Mexico every year, you can be sure that you'll definitely stand out.
Here Are the Biggest Bridal Trends For 2018 - You'll Want to Bookmark This
For most brides, picking out a wedding dress isn't done on a whim. It can take months of planning/perusing Pinterest and trying on gowns before finding one you love. To narrow down that search, it helps to have a list of the up-and-coming bridal styles. That way, you know what to try on first!
For 2018 brides especially, you will be pleased to find a range of options from floral appliqué tulle dresses to high-neck Victorian-inspired designs. If you are the type who shuns tradition, bridal pantsuits are having a moment. Should you decide to follow the trends here or not, the dresses will definitely keep you on track for finding a winner for your big day.
You'll Gasp When You See These 30 Cute Dresses (All From Amazon and Under $17!)
When your closet is lacking a little oomph, it's time to refresh your wardrobe. Amazon is full of covetable dresses worthy of your attention, so we rounded up our favorite options. They're all incredibly flattering and affordable. Time to shop!
Ditch Your Jeans - These 11 Stylish Leggings Are All Less Than $22 on Amazon
If you're all about rocking leggings outside the gym, we get it. These versatile pants are so comfortable, they're hard to want to take off. Not only do they keep you warm during chilly months, but you can also wear them with just about anything. You don't have to spend a fortune on a new pair, either; we shopped on Amazon and found a handful of stylish finds - and they're all under $22 so you can get more than two (or five!). Shop our favorite finds ahead.
Dress Up Your Bump With These Stylish Dresses From ASOS
There are some clear advantages to wearing dresses while pregnant. Not only are they pretty comfortable, but one single item of clothing creates an entire outfit with minimal effort. Plus everyone looks put-together in a dress. Whether your style comprises basics in neutral colors or you prefer bold, statement-making pieces, we've found some stylish picks from ASOS that you'll be able to seamlessly blend into your wardrobe.
The retailer always has a great selection of on-trend maternity clothes, so you don't have to change your style while you're pregnant. Add these nine dresses to your closet so you can stay comfortable and stylish throughout your pregnancy.
Bye-Bye, Rubber Flip-Flops - These 11 Stylish Sandals Are Perfect For Your Next Vacation
We've all been there and overpacked on vacation. This season, avoid having too many things you won't end up wearing by strategically planning ahead. One of the most important parts about traveling is packing the perfect shoes. You'll want to wear something stylish, comfortable, and easy to pack. Weather you're headed on a city break or somewhere tropical, sandals are always a must. These lightweight pairs can easily slip into your suitcase and accent all your favorite outfits. To make sure you take the right ones, we rounded up a list of cool and comfy finds we think you'll love. Take a look.
Gigi Hadid Has a Lot of '90s Pride - Just Look at Her Outfits
Gigi Hadid was born in 1995, so you best believe she has some '90s pride. The supermodel is the queen of wearing clothes with popular references to this decade. Take her pink Power Rangers beanie or Marc Jacobs MTV hoodie - they both offered a serious dose of nostalgia and aren't your average garage-sale finds either. (The hoodie alone cost over $1,000!)
The star stylishly works every '90s-inspired piece into her wardrobe, finishing off her looks with easy staples such as jeans, leather pants, and ankle booties. Gigi makes sure not to overdo it, emitting just enough vintage vibes to catch our attention. If Gigi's BFF Kendall Jenner is a total '80s gal, then Gigi is her '90s counterpart. Scroll to get inspired by her ways, then shop.
Relive Celine Dion's Very First Met Gala Look
The 2017 Met Gala was Celine Dion's very first appearance at fashion's annual prom night. That might be hard to believe, given her impressive designer wardrobe, curated by stylist Law Roach, and her gorgeous accessory collection. But Celine's strides in the industry have been within recent years, which is why there was no better time for the star to make her debut at the ball.
Last year, Celine walked the carpet in a striking custom creation by Donatella Versace, which featured a thigh-high leg slit. Reminisce over the star's daring look ahead, then stay tuned for this year's Met Gala red carpet.
Every Question You've Ever Had About the Met Gala, Answered in an Instant
We don't expect you to know that Vogue editor Anna Wintour has been cochairing the Met Gala since 1999, but you should absolutely know she's the woman behind the annual event, which always falls on the first Monday in May. And you don't need to know exactly how much money the ball raises for the Met's Costume Institute, but you should be aware that - behind all the glitz and glamour on the red carpet - there's a curated exhibit for attendees (and eventually you) to enjoy.
Just days after Hollywood's elite swarm the museum in New York, the doors are open to the public. This year, everyone will enjoy a tribute to clothing centered on fashion and religion, and hosts Amal Clooney, Rihanna, and Donatella Versace will receive guests. What goes into planning not only the display but also the most anticipated, exclusive night in fashion? Anna Wintour handles the seating charts and taps a couple of celebrity performers to entertain, but we're sure you have more questions than that, now don't you?
Kylie Jenner's Wearing Diamonds With Her Bikini - but All We Can See Are Slits and Cutouts
Kylie Jenner posed for a romantic beach shot at sundown on her trip to the Bahamas with Travis Scott and baby Stormi. The new mom, who appears to be favoring mesh details and cutouts when it comes to her swimwear this season, styled a black slashed bikini top with a high-leg bottom. She wore a matching crochet cover-up that definitely distracted us from, I don't know, maybe those HUGE diamond studs in her ears and even the crystal clear water behind her. Kylie's hair was in braids, allowing her swim look the full spotlight, just like she likes it. Ahead, catch another glimpse of Kylie's moment, then shop similar designs ahead.
The Only Way to Know If Your Jeans Are "Cool" This Season
Ask yourself this one question: do you own side-striped denim? If not, girl, you need to get your hands on a pair of these true blues, because the race car effect is pulling ahead, full throttle. During the latest Fashion Month, we saw the trend all over the streets, from New York to Paris. Ladies were either rocking the Calvin Klein Canadian tuxedo in varying shades of denim or allowing a darker panel to attract eyes downward, drawing attention to a pair of fabulous shoes or an ultradistressed hem. Ahead, get inspired by a few of our favorite side-striped denim moments, then scoop up some of these of-the-moment jeans to work into your rotation.
The 35 Cutest 1-Piece Swimsuits of 2018 Will Make You Want to Burn Your Bikinis
In 2018, the one-piece swimsuit trend is here to stay. There are so many cute, stylish options that look flattering on a variety of body types. When you want something bold and playful or alluring and sexy, there's something for absolutely everyone. If you're stumped on where to start shopping, we pulled the best picks. That way, you don't have to go digging around the internet for the perfect purchase. Not only are these styles fun to look through, but they will also get you excited for Summer. So don't waste any more time! Look through these adorable must haves and get yourself something today. The pools and beaches are calling your name, and it would be rude to ignore them.
Is It Summer Yet? We Found 11 Crop Tops You'll Want to Wear All Season Long
Already daydreaming of warm-weather days and quality time in the sun? It might be time to add some new crop tops to your wardrobe. Whether you are all about gingham, are excited to experiment with bright hues, or prefer some basic options, there are a ton of silhouettes to suit your style. We've used our shopping expertise to bring you styles you'll fawn over and want to wear all season long. From affordable steals to luxury pieces, we have choices to fit every budget. Add these 11 picks to your shopping cart now to revitalize your wardrobe just in time for the sunny weather.
Your Handy Guide to the 6 Types of Bikini Bottoms
Just like how underwear comes in different styles, so too do bikini bottoms. The cheeky, the high waist, and the hipster are some terms you may have heard of. Not to get all technical, but when you shop for body-flattering swimsuits, you should be somewhat familiar with the different styles. They play a role in your overall look! Though bikini bottoms can be an amalgam of two styles (you can wear a high-waisted bottom that also has a deep-V cut), we've narrowed down the categories to six common selections. These are the ones you'll come back to time and time again.
- Additional reporting by India Yaffe
Forget Fussy French Twists - This Effortlessly Cool "Banana Bun" Is Perfect For Lazy Girls
While french twists have been around for as long as we can remember, that doesn't mean they're old-fashioned. There's something about them that's always seemed so elegant. The look is perfect for weddings and formal events, but now, we've found a way to relax the traditional style and incorporate it into our everyday routine. Meet the banana bun: the loose, low hairstyle that takes your typical messy chignon a whole new level of chicness.
When it comes to this look, the messier it is, the better. According to Matrix SoColor celebrity stylist George Papanikolas, it works best on second- or third-day hair. "The dirt and grit gives the hair more texture," he explained. He recommends spritzing your strands with a dry shampoo for even more texture - try Matrix Style Link Mineral Play Back Dry Shampoo ($18).
Executing the look itself is simple. Put your hair up into a loose low ponytail, using bobby pins to pin strands up and into the pony."The pony will act as an anchor to you," shared Papanikolas.
The banana bun embraces flyaways and uncooperative strands (making it fabulous for humid days when your hair just won't cooperate). The styling possibilities are endless, too: you can wear it in the middle of your head, lower down by your neck, or even to the side. After initially spotting the trend on Byrdie, we knew we had to try this for ourselves.
Keep reading to see photos of the effortlessly cool banana bun, and then, check out the top beauty trends you need to know for the Fall.
26 Healthy Salads That Don't Use Leafy Greens
When you're in the mood for a heartier, stay-full-till-dinner salad, make one of these filling salads that are made with chunky veggies, whole grains, and beans. No kale, romaine, or spinach here!
I Tried Trader Joe's $3 Cauliflower Gnocchi, and I Have Some Feelings to Share
Cauliflower pizza crust has been trendy for quite a while, so it was only a matter of time until something equally buzzy came along. Enter cauliflower gnocchi, one of the latest Trader Joe's products that's flying off shelves. When I first heard about this impasta - Get it? Like when zoodles try to be pasta? - I was skeptical and intrigued. Gnocchi is a very specific Italian cuisine with a texture that's hard to master, even for skilled cooks who have nailed the potato-to-flour ratio. When I added other new Trader Joe's items to my cart on a recent grocery run, I knew I had to grab TJ's $3 Cauliflower Gnocchi from the frozen aisle and test it for myself.
First things first: the ingredients are cauliflower (75 percent, the brand claims), cassava flour, potato starch, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt. There are two and a half servings per bag, and 140 calories and 22 grams of carbs per serving. While I first assumed this to be a low-carb option, I realized otherwise upon inspecting the ingredients. Cassava flour is extremely high in carbohydrates, thanks to the starchy cassava plant. However, it is gluten-free, so if you suffer from a gluten intolerance, this gnocchi is definitely right for you.
The gnocchi comes frozen, and following the cooking instructions is key to a successful result. I recommend the stove-top method, which requires covering the package's contents in a skillet with 1/4 cup water over medium heat, and then achieving a crispy finish by sautéing for a few minutes more. If you prefer, you can boil the gnocchi and skip the crispy exterior altogether. I kept it simple by adding a little bit of butter, Parmesan cheese, pepper, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and I happily devoured my entire plate! If you have time to make it more of a complete meal, I'd recommend tossing it with basil pesto, vegan bolognese, veggies like asparagus and mushrooms, or fresh lemon and peas.
I was pleasantly surprised by the texture - not quite as pillowy as regular gnocchi, but each little dumpling was slightly crunchy on the edges and just soft enough (without falling apart). The cauliflower flavor is prevalent, but it's not overwhelming. I happen to be a rather harsh critic of Italian food (thank you, Mom!), and I can confidently say I would buy this again. I definitely recommend snagging this creative spin on cauliflower before the next trend inevitably takes over - your move, cashew cheese.
8 Trader Joe's Foods I Always Keep in My Freezer (and the Recipes I Make With Them)
Trader Joe's is like my therapist, my happy place. As soon as I walk in, all my troubles melt away as I feast my eyes on all of TJ's amazing food. I can pick up basics like raw almonds and cashews, dried baby bananas (my new obsession), almond butter, and a bag of baby avocados and never walk away feeling like I got ripped off - I actually feel like I got deals! I love that just about everything I choose has minimal ingredients, and Trader Joe's has so many unique packaged foods that make dinners come together in minutes. If you take a peek in my freezer, you'll always find these staples for making quick, healthy, satisfying meals. Here are my eight favorite healthy frozen foods and how I cook with them.
If You're Trying to Cut Sugar Out of Your Diet, Here Are 5 Much-Needed Tips
If you're trying to make some significant changes in your diet in order to lose weight or just feel healthier all around, one of the first things you might want to consider doing is giving up sugar. There's a plethora of evidence out there proving that excess sugar consumption is linked to cancer, chronic diseases, digestive issues, and even heart failure. Eating a lot of sugar can also make you feel lethargic, tired, and cranky. Not to mention that sugary foods are often very calorically dense, making it hard to lose weight if you're eating them often.
The quicker we can all eat less sugar, the better it will be for our health. Here are five foolproof tips to help you get quit sugar safely and effectively.
Gradually Cut Yourself Off
It's never a good idea to go completely cold turkey, no matter what you're trying to give up. If you eat sugar every single day, whether it comes from soda, candy, or packaged snacks, make a pact with yourself that you'll cut down to five sugary snacks next week. The week after, cut down to four, and just keep gradually cutting down until you're down to one sweet snack a week.
The less sugar you eat, the less your body will crave it. And by gradually cutting yourself off from this ingredient, you likely won't experience that many withdrawal symptoms, like headaches, fatigue, and trouble concentrating.
Replace Sugary Treats With Naturally Sweet Foods
There are so many different, naturally occurring foods that taste deliciously sweet. Think about your favorite fruits - bananas, mangoes, berries, and pineapple. You can even add raw honey to your tea, or use maple syrup to make healthy desserts. Once you rewire your brain to get used to these kinds of natural sugars, not only will you fall in love with these vibrant flavors, but you won't miss refined sugar at all.
Steer Clear of Artificial Sweeteners
You may initially think that artificial sweeteners are the answer to your sugar cravings, but you're not doing yourself any favors by drinking diet soda and eating sugar-free candy. Artificial sweeteners are very hard for us to digest, which leads to bloating and digestive problems. Plus, when you continuously eat products that have artificial sweeteners in them, you're only perpetuating your body's craving for refined sugar, which will eventually make you reach for it and potentially binge on it later.
Stay Away From Processed Foods
There may be an urge to replace sugary foods with something salty or greasy, like potato chips or French fries, but that won't do you any good in the long run. When you consume foods that are really high in sodium and fat, you'll end up craving the opposite taste. And what's the opposite of salty? Sweet, of course! Steer clear of processed and packaged foods, and instead fill up with whole foods (and drink plenty of water!).
Meal Plan Ahead of Time
If you start your week with nothing prepared to eat, you'll be much more likely to cave in and grab a huge brownie in the middle of the day, especially if it's just lying around at your office or peeking at you from behind a glass window at a cafe. Plan out your meals on Sunday, along with your snacks. Having a bunch of delicious, natural food at your fingertips will help you bust your sugar cravings quickly and effectively.
9 Relaxing Stretches You Can Do in Bed
Stretching has a way of melting away stress and worry, but there's no need to unroll your yoga mat. Here are nine stretches you can do in your pajamas and your bed - either before you go to sleep or once your alarm goes off - or both! Do all nine if you have time, or just pick a few. Either way, you'll feel more relaxed, whether you're heading to the land of nod or waking with the sun.
These Keto-Friendly Desserts Will Be a Hit at Your Next Dinner Party
The latest on-trend diet is the keto diet. The keto diet is a very low-carb, moderate-protein, and high-fat plan that severely limits sugar and white or refined carbs. Encouraged on this diet are lean proteins, some fruit, and plant-based fats. It's not for everyone, but many have seen incredible results by sticking to it. While that sounds easy enough for our morning egg whites and lunch salads, how are we supposed to adapt it to our holiday desserts? Turns out there are a lot more options than we may have realized.
10 Tips For a Stronger and Flatter Midsection
If your belly is the one place where fat just won't disappear, while there's no magic one-step cure, here are some must dos that are proven to whittle your middle.
Over 50 Healthy Zucchini Recipes For Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert
Look, zucchini is delicious on its own, but did you know you can make BROWNIES with it? Seriously. This versatile veggie can create endless recipes, whether you've got a sweet tooth or a hankering for some zoodles. Maybe you're craving pizza? Make zucchini pizza bites! Taco Tuesday? We've got a zuked-up variety for you. You can even make oatmeal (aka zoatmeal) with it! Lighten up your meals and add nutrition with this low-cal, nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory Summer squash - we promise you won't run out of ideas after trying these recipes.
So What Exactly Is the Difference Between THC and CBD? We Have Answers
If you're familiar with marijuana, you may already know what we're about to tell you. But no matter if you're for or against medical or recreational marijuana, learning about its components is undoubtedly fascinating. Because it's so complex, there are many different uses for marijuana. Heck, you can even match the right strain of weed to your zodiac sign. Or use weed to spice up your sex life. Or try medical cannabis to boost your workout.
All that brings us to THC. It's an acronym for its full chemical name: tetrahydrocannabinol. It's a cannabinoid compound that comes from the resin of the cannabis plant, and most notably, THC is the part of marijuana that's psychoactive. CBD oil, in contrast, is a different component of cannabis and is like liquid Xanax from Mother Nature, if you ask us. (Studies show CBD and THC each act on the brain in different ways.)
Simply put: THC alters your mood, and you get high. Along with that, you may also feel relaxed, happy, and/or snacky. If you're having problems with nausea, THC will also help deliver relief. Take too much, though, and you may swing the other way and experience not-so-pleasant side effects like hallucinations, anxiety, or even panic. In stark contrast, CBD has no psychoactive properties. Users of CBD often say that when taking the compound, you don't feel anything. Instead you feel the absence of things, most notably being anxiety.
Interestingly, levels of THC in marijuana today are nearly three times what they were in the 1990s. Be aware, though, that how you take marijuana affects levels of THC in your bloodstream. If you eat edibles, THC's effect is delayed by 30 minutes to an hour thanks to your body's need to digest the food, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Less THC also makes it into your bloodstream with an edible, blunting its effects compared to smoking. That said, it's all too easy to think you haven't taken enough, overcompensate, and experience ill side effects, NIDA warns.
All that is to say, whatever decisions you make (and depending on the laws in your state), the most important thing is knowing what's going into your body. With that info, you can make the best decision for you.
30-Day 6-Pack Abs Challenge
Ready for another workout challenge? This one is all about strengthening and slimming your entire midsection to help diminish belly fat and love handles. All it takes is less than 10 minutes a day for the next 30 days and you'll notice a difference in how your clothes fit. It's not just about basic crunches! Oh no! This challenge involves six different ab-tastic moves to target every angle of your core from the front to the sides to the back.
Here's the 30-day plan below and do adjust as needed according to your ability level. Each day involves three sets of the six above exercises. The third set will be tough - hey, it's a challenge, right! - so be sure to focus on doing the moves correctly, not quickly. This plan also incorporates rest days, so while you can hold off on ab exercises, you can (and should) still do other workouts to strengthen the rest of your body. Also, it's not advised to skip right to day 14 (if you want to be able to laugh the next day without rolling over in pain), so follow the plan and adjust it as needed according to your schedule and ability level.
Healthy Brownie Recipes That Make a Diet Seem Decadent
Not quite a cookie, but not yet a cake, there's something so satisfying about a brownie. Whether you like them dense and fudgy or light and cakey, there's a healthy recipe for you here. And we've thought of everything; look for recipes that are vegan, raw, gluten-free, and absent of refined sugars, too.
Michelle Obama Just Perfectly Summed Up the Hypocrisy of the GOP
If anyone is going to expertly shred the current administration without so much as a single mention of our president's name, you can bet that it's going to be Michelle Obama.
Speaking at a Sept. 22 tech conference in Utah, the former first lady answered questions in an hour-long moderated conversation that shed light on her true feelings about the current state of American politics. As initially reported by the Salt Lake City Tribune, Mrs. Obama took the opportunity to address the flaws she sees in the nationalist, "America-first" rhetoric that's played a central role in Donald Trump's rise to power. "We live in a big country and a big world," she said before noting that her husband's White House was one built on hope while the current administration is one built on fear.
Obama also expertly called out the hypocrisy that often surrounds the conservative discourse on health care. "You can't just want to help someone in a hurricane and not make sure they can go to the doctor when they're sick," she said to an audience over 1,000 people. But while it's refreshing to hear Michelle Obama's take on our current political climate, she also made it very clear that she's not interested in a run for office anytime soon. When a member of the crowd shouted out that Obama should run for president, she was quick to shut it down. "That's still shocking. Like, what?" Obama said, adding, "Are you kidding me? No."
Even if Michelle Obama isn't ready to run for president yet, we can only hope that she throws her wit and sass into helping to get one of these highly qualified women into office in 2020.
Inside Nap York, a 24-Hour Oasis That's Bringing Slumber to the City That Never Sleeps
Tucked inside New York City's Herald Square, just feet from Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building, lies a secret oasis of sorts. It's Sleeping Beauty's best dream and your kindergarten self's worst nightmare: a napping club.
Nap York sits on the corner of West 36th Street and 7th Avenue. The wellness club took the place of an old deli, trading out slabs of honey-glazed ham for personal napping pods and yoga classes. On the first floor, you'll find a cafe and workspace - New Yorkers and their MacBooks sit at wooden tables that resemble picnic benches while utilizing the free Wi-Fi.
The cafe was designed to minimize noise, with customers placing their orders on one of several iPads to avoid disrupting the nappers on the floors above. After an unseen chef in a hidden kitchen prepares each order, the meals are delivered with a name tag via conveyer belt to the patrons patiently waiting for their masterpieces to arrive.
Unsurprisingly, New Yorkers seem to love the contrast that the studio provides to the city's everyday madness.
One napper, Angelica Castillo, says she read about the club in Time Out. She recalls being "so excited" to try the napping pods that she wasn't sure she'd even be able to sleep.
"Nap York is a godsend. Besides getting a break from work, I think it's a great way to recharge if you're touring around in the city or planning to meet friends for a late night of partying," she said.
Tony Yan, a 34-year-old Manhattanite, loves the convenience of a napping club in the city. While he described the alarm that Nap York provides its nappers as an "Applebee's type of buzzer," he thinks the idea behind the club is great. "I live in Manhattan, but if I have an event to attend after work, it just doesn't make sense for me to rush home first."
"It's also great for those hangover days," he added.
The Nap York cafe serves the most millennial-inspired items, like matcha cocoa lattes, clean green smoothies, various salad renditions, and, of course, avocado toast. As recent Nap York visitor Sylvia Chu says, "I feel healthier just hanging out there."
A grab-and-go station in the corner of the cafe features Pellegrino, special Nap York-labeled bottled water, and whole pineapples. The menu is displayed on three flat-screen monitors hanging above a 30-foot live-plant wall.
Nap York is home to 300 plants of over 10 different species; they surround the entranceway, encircle the receptionist, and line the staircase. The entire building seems to be made out of essential oils. It somehow smells calm - like an Upper East Side yoga studio you can't afford.
Upstairs, a 24/7 security guard watches on, hidden in yet another jungle of live plants housed in copper pots. Seven napping pods sit side by side. And for just $10 per 30 minutes, you can enjoy a 28-square-foot room of complete tranquility.
Underneath the bed is storage space for your belongings. To the left, a shelf containing a relatively small plant, noise-canceling headphones, and controls to both the temperature of the pod and the illumination of the star-lit ceiling lying above you.
Perched on top of the seven pods: more plants.
Each napper is given a fresh pillowcase and blanket, a hot towel, and a vibrating alarm (not from Applebee's, thankfully) to gently return him or her to the real world, where the streets smell of urine and the stars are washed out by the Manhattan skyline.
While you rest, your shoes can be shined. Your shirt steamed. Your luggage stored. A Tesla shuttle is available at all times for airport transportation. Every detail of Nap York has been so meticulously thought through - the laborious brainchild of a founder who wishes to remain nameless.
While some potential nappers - like 24-year-old New Jersey resident Nikki Miller, who has only utilized Nap York for its luxurious cafe - may be wary of the cleanliness, the Airweave mattresses and pillows used by Nap York eliminate the possibility of bedbugs or unwanted lingering scents. There are no springs or foam, just plastic, spaghetti-like fibers beckoning you to rest.
The studio took inspiration for its napping pods from companies in Silicon Valley that have utilized similar resting areas for their employees, according to Director of Marketing Stacy Veloric.
"But we did it in a way with New Yorkers in mind," she explained. "So that's why it's 24 hours, seven days a week. Whenever they need it."
While Nap York is the first napping studio in New York City, it follows a few others across the United States - like Recharj, a power-napping and meditation studio in Washington DC, and Peace Power Napping, a Chicago studio dedicated solely to napping.
But back in New York, due to increased demand for its napping pods since opening its doors in February, Nap York has renovated its four-story location to increase the number of pods from seven to 30. The studio also unveiled a new layout at an event in April featuring the 2.0 version of its napping pods, with soundproof material that is 80 percent recycled tire.
Veloric says that Nap York has plans for expansion, bringing its brand to a second location on the east side of Manhattan. For now, we'll settle for whatever it's willing to offer up to us in order to reach more like-minded New Yorkers in desperate need of a little sleep.
Celebs Are Sharing Their Google Arts & Culture Face Matches, and Oh My Gosh
Unless you've been living under a rock, you've likely come across a few (OK, dozens) of social media posts about Google's Arts & Culture app. Though the app was originally created so users could admire famous artworks at their fingertips, a brand-new feature has the internet up in arms: one that allows you to see your portrait painting doppelgängers in a matter of seconds.
So how exactly does this newly viral tool work? All you have to do is download the Google Arts & Culture app from either Google Play or the iTunes store, and scroll until you see the "Is your portrait in a museum?" feature, which prompts you to snap a quick selfie. Once it receives your snapshot, the app sifts through the thousands of artworks in its database and matches your face to a collection of supposedly similar paintings in side-by-side collages, along with the exact percentage of how much the two images resemble each other. Some are pretty spot on, while others are, er, a bit off, to say the least.
The app is pretty darn hysterical, especially because it'll match you with different portraits if you make a funny face in your selfie. As soon as people started catching wind of the addicting feature, a snowball effect took place, and seemingly the entire internet began sharing their artistic look-alikes - including celebrities. In case you need some motivation to finally delete some photos to free up space on your phone for the Google Arts & Culture app, allow these hilarious celeb 'grams and tweets to convince you.
Michelle Obama Called Herself Our "Forever First Lady," and We Couldn't Agree More
On May 2, Michelle Obama made an appearance at the 2018 College Signing Day at Temple University in front of 8,000 high school students, wooing the crowd by embracing a very popular nickname that was given to her after she and former President Barack Obama left the White House: the "forever first lady."
"I know you have everything it takes to succeed. I know that you are me. And if I can be standing here as your forever first lady," she said before pausing for the crowd to cheer, "then you can do anything you put your mind to."
The College Signing Day event first started under the Obama administration as part of the former first lady's Reach Higher program, which encourages students to get a college education. Watch the moment for yourselves in the video above, and we promise our forever first lady's rousing speech won't let you down.
Finally, an Answer to This Annoying iPhone Mystery
If, like me, you're someone who gets uncomfortable talking on the phone, you're probably superthankful for the iPhone's accept/decline button when you get an incoming call. But you're probably also confused as to why you only see it sometimes. Most of the time, you may have noticed the slide-to-answer feature.
Much to the relief of introverts everywhere, the reason behind these changes has finally come to light, courtesy of Business Insider. Instead of a complicated cause, such as discrepancies between iPhone and non-iPhone users' calls, the answer is simple. If your iPhone is unlocked while receiving a call, you'll see accept and decline buttons on your screen; if it's locked, you'll get the slider. Aha!
I tested it out by having a co-worker call me twice. Sure enough, it worked the way it's supposed to. Case closed, everybody.
Rudy Giuliani Just Made a Huge Mess of Trump's 2 Biggest Problems
presented without comment pic.twitter.com/ThIpQvGuHd
- chelsea adelaine hassler (@chelseaadelaine) May 3, 2018
At the end of the movie The Wizard of Oz, it's revealed that the Wizard isn't actually some big, giant, omniscient talking head - instead, he's a tiny, red-faced, white-haired madman. "Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain," he yells, furiously trying to hide behind a silken emerald screen.
This may seem like a random tangent, but it's quickly becoming the best representation of the dichotomy between what President Donald Trump says to the world versus the stories those around him tell. Fiction versus the actual fact is a recurring theme, too - just ask his doctor or his lawyers, who have been subjected to the recurring pattern of "That's the truth!" before the inevitable "yeah, what had happened was . . . "
The most recent example of this playing out on a grand scale can be found in a May 2 appearance by Trump legal team member (and former New York City mayor) Rudy Giuliani, on presidential chum Sean Hannity's Fox News show, Hannity. The late-evening conversation between the adviser and pro-president voicebox seemed innocuous enough but soon revealed major lies told by Trump.
Giuliani explained that Trump fired former FBI Director James Comey because he refused to publicly state that the president "was not a target of the investigation," a fact that many are pointing out as an example of obstruction of justice. Giuliani then went on to drop a massive second bomb, admitting that Trump actually had a hand in the Stormy Daniels payoff that he has stressed to know nothing about.
"Trump didn't know about specifics," Giuliani said of the Daniels payment. "But he did know about the general arrangement." Giuliani then explained that Trump's handling of the $130,000 payment was entirely legal and didn't violate campaign finance laws because it was "funneled it through a law firm" by way of paying back Michael Cohen, the lawyer's president who orchestrated the payment.
Remarkable: Hannity tries to give Rudy opportunity to clean up comment Trump reimbursed him for Stormy payment. But Rudy insists: "I was talking about the $130K payment . . . That was money paid by his lawyer . . . and the president had reimbursed him over a period of several months"
- Manu Raju (@mkraju) May 3, 2018
Despite Hannity scrambling to cover up the many admissions by the former mayor, the damage was done. Daniels's lawyer, Michael Avenatti, spoke with MSNBC by phone that evening and was "absolutely speechless." "[Americans] deserve to be told the truth by your president," he said. "This is an outrage what has gone on here. The American people have been lied to about this agreement."
The morning after the Hannity appearance, Trump admitted he did indeed know all about the Daniels payment. "This was a private agreement," Trump tweeted. "Money from the campaign, or campaign contributions, played no roll [sic] in this transaction."
While the cleanup crew has been moving fast - Giuliani appeared on Fox & Friends and Fox Business Network the morning after - this is yet another example of our presidential wizard at work. "Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain," we may be told, articulated via Twitter and by various presidential surrogates. Unfortunately for them, we see how far back the orange curtain has been pulled.
Thank you for that, presidential watchdogs.
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