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 12 mai 2018
12 New and Innovative Korean Beauty Products Coming Your Way
Korean experts seem to consistently be ahead of the curve when it comes to skin care. It's practically become a sport to see what dermatologists and beauty pros will develop next! And here's the thing: though K-beauty products are smartly packaged and utilize surprising ingredients (hello, snail secretions), they're not about the gimmick. Their consumers are some of the pickiest, most informed out there, so if a product doesn't actually deliver, it's not going to thrive in the market.
These 12 new and innovative Korean beauty and skincare products we're featuring today are proof of that. Let's dig in!
50 Seriously Cute Nail Art Ideas For Starbucks Addicts
Starbucks can be both an obsession and an addiction. The way the company caters to its consumer and how it is always shaking things up to refresh the brand is admirable, and when something new comes along (we see you cold brew-infused whipped cream), the excitement reaches a fever pitch.
But, there are also those people who have loved Starbucks since before its unicorn frappuccino and the very Instagram-able drinks. And, those people are the ones who will wear their obsession about the coffee company on their sleeve, their shirts, their phone cases, and even their nails.
Show off your love for the brand that keeps you moving forward on the days you have nothing left in your tank with some of this art that totally #nailedit.
We Found the 1 Gym You'll Actually Want to Attend: FaceGym
I have recently been on a workout research binge, spending hours upon hours looking up routines to get me in the perfect shape - yoga for anxiety, cardio for a healthy heart, training tips for marathon first-timers - and I have read up on them all, excitedly keeping them in mind for future exercise sessions.
But while looking into new ways to get myself up and moving, I came across a very unique workout at a very special space that I had not yet become familiar with - FaceGym, an intense facial sports massage which acts as, you guessed it, a workout for your face.
What It Is
Founded by Inge Theron, FaceGym uses kneading movements and cutting-edge technology to work out 40 "forgotten" muscles in the face. Inge, who spent three years writing for the Financial Times, documented her beauty, fitness, and wellness experiences in a column titled "Chronicles of a Spa Junkie," and it was during this time that she visited 57 spas, took part in 32 types of fitness classes, dabbled with 25 antiaging treatments, and participated in 15 detoxes.
After Inge was left housebound following a face-lifting procedure, she knew that there had to be a better way to go about all of this and used her years of research and study to create an amazing concept of her own: FaceGym, a noninvasive facial workout. From there, Inge took two years studying face massage and muscle stimulation, working with an array of different facialists, experts, and doctors along the way to develop what is now known as FaceGym.
As someone who suffers on and off from frustrating hormonal acne and whose face has more dull days than I can count, FaceGym sounds like a gift from above.
How It Works
"FaceGym is a brand new beauty-meets-fitness concept," Inge told us. "Every FaceGym workout follows the flow of a gym workout, from warmup to cardio, sculpting to cooldown. We combine our signature knuckling to warm up the skin, then go into cardio - a fast-paced face whipping, which gets your face to sweat out and 'detox' from a lifestyle of excess sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and stress. Then we get into sculpting with hand-assisted muscle manipulation, hi-tech tools to lift, sculpt, tone, and tighten the 'Forgotten 40.'"
According to Inge, it's all about flexing your facial muscles. The basic workout focuses on promoting lymphatic drainage, stimulating blood circulation, and producing collagen. Once you graduate to more advanced classes, you'll get access to their specialized tool, the FaceGym Pro, "an electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) device that emits mild electrical waves to really stimulate the muscles and restore your skin's elasticity."
Not All Classes Are the Same
FaceGym's menu currently offers an array of different face workouts, with something for everyone - their "Clean and Lift" uses 4D laser technology to deeply clean congested, dull skin with zero pain and no downtime. "The Hangover" is described as "a Bloody Mary for your face" and uses its signature cardio workout to detox and drain fluid buildup, whereas "The Boss" uses an exfoliator to sculpt, tone, and scrub away stress.
"We believe muscle stimulation is the holy grail," Inge shares, "Hence muscle manipulation, whether that be with unique hand-based protocols or technology, is at the heart of what we do. Day in and day out, we see visible lifts in our customers' complexions from increased facial muscle tone. We all know that to improve muscle tone in our bodies we have to activate them - and the face is no different!"
Where to Go
FaceGym currently has locations in London, but will be coming to the States this Spring. FaceGym will launch with Saks Beauty Bar 2.0 in New York on May 22 and will open its NYC flagship store in Fall 2018. Their NYC flagship will have a unique design from their other spaces and be designed specifically for the New York consumer and their needs.
Want more info? Check out their website!
The 1 Foundation That Covered My Hives After an Allergic Reaction
A few weeks ago, I had an allergic reaction to a medication and woke up covered in hives from head to toe. I was completely freaked out that my usually clear skin had been taken over by large, red, splotchy bumps. I cried on the phone to my mom, sulked, and hid from the world.
When I realized I could no longer be a hermit (I'm a busy woman!), I panicked. I didn't want anyone, even my roommate, to see me like this. Eventually, I knew I had to stop being dramatic and accept my fate: I had to go out into public. In an effort to look less like a leper, I turned to Huda Beauty Faux Filter Foundation ($40), which promised to cover hyperpigmentation and redness, and prayed that it would cover my rash.
I grabbed my trusted Beautyblender ($20) and started dotting the liquid on my face, trying not to cry. To my surprise, it completely covered the hundreds of hives that had conquered my complexion. Although I still had a skin texture I can only describe as lumpy, I felt so much better. I thanked the makeup gods (and Huda Kattan) that this had worked, put on a hoodie, and went out in public for the first time in days.
Since then, my hives have thankfully gone away and I am no longer sick. However, my devotion to Huda's foundation is still going strong. The formula is silky-smooth, packed with pigment, and doesn't fade throughout the day. If it can cover hives, it can definitely handle my ordinary breakouts. I recently wore it for a photo shoot, and my skin looks incredible in the photos.
While I hope I never have hives again, at least I now know what product I can turn to in a skin emergency.
If You Don't Watch the Royal Wedding in This Crown Highlighter, Did You Even Watch It?
If you live in the states and plan to watch the Royal Wedding, you'll have to wake up anywhere between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., depending on your coast. That's probably too early to justify wearing real pants, let alone makeup, but we found one regal highlighter that just might change your mind.
The limited-edition Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Pressed Highlighter in Royal Glow ($38) comes adorned with a headpiece inspired by the Queen's iconic Crown Jewels. Like all 16 other iterations of the popular luminizer, this bronze-opal shade gives you more of a warm glow than an out-there "shine," which makes it perfect for 9-to-5 wear.
Except you're a princess, so you probably don't do 9-to-5.
14 Beauty Products That'll Turn You Into an Undercover Mermaid
All fins on deck! We're going to wager that no matter where you are in the world, you've already begun carving out ample time for pool- and beach-side shenanigans. Whether you simply like to dip your toes in the water while sipping on your favorite beverage, or you're committed to splashing around with your besties, this roundup of products will beautify, nourish, and protect your skin and hair from the sun and chlorine to help you achieve "undercover mermaid" status.
11 Desserts So Delicious, You'll Never Suspect They're Vegan - All From Amazon
Although I wouldn't label myself a vegan, I can easily say I really enjoy plant-based foods. I used to be intimidated by the diet, but after a good friend turned me onto it, I couldn't believe how good the food was. More importantly, the way it made me feel left a lasting impression. Cutting out meat and dairy from my daily meals instantly left me feeling less sluggish and my digestion system seemed so much smoother. When it comes to dessert, there are a lot of choices that are delicious and cruelty-free. We rounded up a list of some of the best sweets you can find - and they're all available on Amazon so you can have them delivered right to your door. Shop our favorite tasty treats ahead.
Late-Night Munchies? Try These 10 Healthy Snacks From Target
As you're putting on your PJs and washing your face before bed, it's completely OK to give in to the urge to grab one last snack before hitting the pillow and catching some zzz's. For the moments when you want to snack on something fast so you can crawl into bed and snooze the night away, cooking up a homemade meal from scratch isn't going to be an option. That's why it's important to stock your pantry with the best late-night snacks from a place that has too many to pick from: Target. Here are 10 of my favorite healthy late-night treats.
Here's Why Macronutrients Are an Important Part of a Healthy Diet
Are you finding yourself counting calories, sticking to your numbers, and even still not seeing results? The problem might be not about the number of calories, but the kind of calories.
We chatted with certified personal trainer and nutrition coach Carrie McMahon, author of the e-book Why You Should Count Macronutrients, Not Calories. With a life revolving around calorie counting and uncontrollable cheat days (sound familiar?), McMahon was stuck in a restrict-and-binge cycle that she couldn't seem to escape. She soon realized that in order to make a change in her health, she needed to change her approach to food - so she ditched the calorie counting in favor of a less mainstream concept: macronutrient counting.
"Macronutrients are what make up the caloric content of a food," says McMahon. Sometimes referred to as "macros," the three categories of macronutrients are carbohydrates, fat, and protein. The caloric combination of the macros is where that mysterious total number of calories comes from. Here's the breakdown:
- 1 gram of carbohydrates = 4 calories
- 1 gram of fat = 9 calories
- 1 gram of protein = 4 calories
So it's not about how many calories are in your food, but what kind of calories are in your food. Even if you set a strict calorie limit and stick to it, you could be eating total garbage and not getting the nutrients you need. McMahon herself said that back in her days of calorie counting, she would eat "low-fat bars and cereals, fat-free ready meals, et cetera . . . all day long." The result? "I felt like sh*t."
What are the benefits of ditching your calorie-counting ways? For starters, you can indulge with a little less guilt. "Let yourself eat those treats!" says McMahon. "Fit them into your macro allowances, and don't just stick to 'boring foods' or you'll burn out" - and in turn, binge. When you're eating a balanced diet, "cravings go away, because you're not deficient in anything." This balance will "give you more energy, better workouts, and better results." Feeling better, working out better, killing cravings, and treating yo'self? Sign us up!
Ready to get started? Decide whether you want to increase your metabolism, lose fat, or build muscle. McMahon recommends the following daily proportions to her clients beginning this nutritional program:
- Boost Metabolism and/or Build Muscle: 40 percent protein, 35 percent carbohydrates, 25 percent fat
- Lose Fat: 45 percent protein, 35 percent carbohydrates, 20 percent fat
Since tracking can be tough (and a tad math intensive), download a macro-counting app (she recommends My Macros+ app ($3)), where you can enter your foods for each meal while the app does the math for you. That way, you can see if you're reaching your daily numbers, and start reaching your healthy goals.
The Insanely Simple, Straightforward Tip That Helps Me Stay Active
Sometimes, getting motivated can be as easy as changing your outfit. That's the lesson I learned from one of my most active, put-together friends a few years ago when we were talking about how in the world she stays in shape. She's the type of person who manages to keep up a wildly busy schedule while also eating well, maintaining a spotless house, and working out regularly, so when I asked for the secret behind her endless energy, I couldn't believe how simple and straightforward her advice turned out to be.
Put on sneakers, she said. Keep a pair by the door, and when you get home from work, put them on right away - before you can be lured in by your cozy couch or make your way to the stocked fridge. You'll find yourself moving around a bit more, she said, whether that means cleaning up around the house, doing some chores, or deciding to toss on shorts and a t-shirt to head to the gym.
I was skeptical, and I knew there was obviously more to it than a pair of sneakers. Still, I decided to give it a try.
After a couple weeks, I was sold. And listen, I'm not going to say the tip changed my life, but it . . . sort of did? That split-second decision to put on sneakers seemed to trigger a let's-get-sh*t-done kind of energy, and the conscious choice to move around - rather than plopping in front of the TV or grabbing a snack - made me much more active each day. I found myself checking things off my to-do list left and right, whether it was organizing a closet or cooking healthy meals or staying on top of the laundry pile. When I woke up on weekend mornings feeling particularly lazy, I'd force myself to put on my sneakers and I'd feel guilty if I didn't get moving.
Even better: I found myself choosing to work out way more frequently. It's as if putting on sneakers after work channeled the days of throwing on my soccer uniform after school. Once the shoes were on, I'd get a weird, surprising burst of energy (or a clearer focus?) that prompted me to finish changing clothes and go for a run, try an online workout, or head to the gym. In other words, it worked.
Her tip fell along the same lines as laying out your workout clothes the night before. Something about taking that first, small step helps to spark the next step and the next, until you eventually find yourself running around the house to finish chores or sweating it out on the treadmill. Either way, it gets you moving and feeling positive, and every little bit helps, right?
Oprah Drops About a Million Mic-Drop Quotes During USC Commencement Speech
On May 11, Oprah Winfrey delivered a commencement speech to the graduating students of the USC Annenberg School For Communication and Journalism in LA. Much like her acceptance speech at this year's Golden Globes, the talk was filled to the brim with powerful wisdom, astonishing comfort, and too many powerful words to count. The speech is embedded in its entirety above; Oprah is the grand finale, and she begins speaking at the 51-minute mark. While we could fawn over her Maya Angelou quotes or the easy and fantastic life lessons she tacks on the end, there's one especially meaty part of the speech that could really make a profound impact.
Oprah starts with the bad news, which is basically a commentary on the state of the world in her eyes.
"Everything around us, including and in particular the internet and social media, is now being used to erode trust in our institutions, enter fear in our elections, and wreak havoc on our infrastructure. It hands advertisers a map to our deepest desires, it enables misinformation to run rampant, attention spans to run short, and false stories from phony sites to run circles around major news outlets. We have literally walked into traffic while staring at our phones."
When she gets to the "good news" section, she talks a lot about the "fake news" epidemic that seems to have infected the reporting space. But Oprah is not merely bemoaning the way things are. She's offering her best advice on how to untangle the webs upon webs of lies.
"The good news is that there really is a solution. And the solution is each and every one of you, because you will become the new editorial gatekeepers, an ambitious army of truth seekers who will arm yourselves with the intelligence, the insight, and the facts necessary to strike down deceit. You are in a position to keep all of those who now disparage real news . . . you all are the ones who are going to keep those people in check. Why? Because you can push back, and you can answer false narratives with real information. And you can set the record straight. And you also have the ability and power to give voice . . . to people who desperately now need to tell their stories and have their stories told.
"The problem is everyone is meeting hysteria with more hysteria, and we just are all becoming hysterical. And it's getting worse. What I've learned in all these years is that we're not supposed to match it or even get locked into resisting or pushing against it. We're supposed to see this moment in time for what it is. We're supposed to see through it and transcend it. That is how you overcome hysteria, and that is how you overcome the sniping at one another, the trolling, the mean spirited partisanship on both sides of the aisle, the divisiveness, the injustices, the out and out hatred. You use it. Use this moment to encourage you to embolden you and to literally push you into the rising of your life.
"So your job now is to take everything you've learned here and use what you've learned to challenge the left to challenge the right and the center. When you see something, you say something, and you say it with the facts and the reporting to back it. Here's what you have to do: you make the choice every day, every single day, to exemplify honesty. Because the truth, let me tell you something about the truth.
"The truth exonerates,and it convicts. It disinfects, and it galvanizes. The truth has always been and will always be our shield against corruption our shield against greed and despair the truth is our saving grace. And not only are you here . . . to tell it, to write it, to proclaim it, to speak it, but to be it. Be the truth. Be the truth."
Mic drop.
18 People Who Are in Line For the Presidency If Trump Is Removed From Office
If you're suddenly curious as to who becomes president in case President Donald Trump resigns, dies, or is impeached, take a look at the 18 people in line for succession. Called the Presidential Succession Act, the law has a long history of changes, with the last one taking place in 2006.
The first iteration of the Presidential Succession Act in 1792 stated the Senate president pro tempore would be next in line after the vice president. On July 18, 1947, President Harry Truman signed the Presidential Succession Act of 1947. This act changed the line of succession in two ways; first it reinstated the Senate president pro tempore and speaker of the House to the succession plan. Secondly, it also placed the speaker of the House right after the vice president instead of the Senate president pro tempore. The last change to the act came in 2006, when the USA Patriot Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 added the secretary of Homeland Security to the list.
In Trump's administration, here's the full line of succession.
- Vice President Mike Pence
- Speaker of the House Paul Ryan
- Senate President Pro Tempore Orrin Hatch
- Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
- Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin
- Secretary of Defense James Mattis
- Attorney General Jeff Sessions
- Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke
- Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue
- Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross
- Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta
- Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price
- Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson
- Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao
- Secretary of Energy Rick Perry
- Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos
- Secretary of Veterans Affairs David Shulkin
- Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly
The only caveat here is that Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao isn't eligible since she was born in Taipei, Taiwan, and is therefore not a US-born citizen. While it's still uncertain whether or not we'll need to refer to this list in the future, at least we know who we can expect.
vendredi 11 mai 2018
Don't Be Alarmed If You Get a Headache During Sex - It's Normal and Manageable
You're getting to the moment of climax and suddenly your head starts pounding. WTF, right? Sure, you're probably bummed out (there goes your orgasm), but you may also be really confused. You don't normally associate sex with head pain. It turns out you can actually get a sex headache as arousal starts to build, either right before you're about to orgasm or during your orgasm. Neither is ideal, of course. "The first is a dull aching in the head or neck, and the second is a severe ache just prior to or during orgasm. Most sex headaches last for a period of minutes, though more severe cases can last for hours or even two to three days," said Dr. Holly Richmond, licensed marriage and family therapist and AASECT certified sex therapist.
It's also worth noting that you can get migraines during sex, but this will be more acute pain, as opposed to the harsh pain from a sex headache. The same migraines people often get from sounds, lights, or other triggers can happen during sex, as sex can become one of these triggers. This is rare, but when it does happen, it can be associated with nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity to the surrounding environment," according to Board-Certified Urologic Surgeon Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt.
To be fair, sex headaches are rare and can come and go. "Like migraines, many people experience them in clusters over several months, and then may not have any symptoms for a year or more," Dr. Richmond said. Another reason you might not have heard of them before is that there's a lack of research. "The reason it's hard to do research on this topic is because headaches during or after sex are rare (about one percent of the population has this condition)," Dr. Brahmbhatt added.
Although these sex headaches can occur in both genders, they are more common in males, Dr. Brahmbhatt said, according to the American Migraine Foundation. If the headache is associated with changes in vision, neck stiffness, vomiting, or loss of consciousness, she said, or it lasts a few days, Dr. Richmond added, you'll want to book it to the ER, just like you would for any other painful migraine.
Why It Happens
"There are several reasons for why sex headaches happen, but almost all the reasons boil down to issues with blood flow, including an abnormal connection between the arteries and veins in the head," Dr. Richmond said. This isn't too worrisome, and there are ways to improve blood flow and prevent the headaches from happening. However, if you have heart problems, and you're getting these headaches as a potential symptom, you'll want to be more mindful to get help from a physician. "Sex headaches can also be a symptom of stroke or coronary artery disease," Dr. Richmond said.
"On the less serious side, these headaches can result from medication use, even birth control pills," Dr. Richmond said. If you're taking birth control and you're getting headaches during sex, it can definitely be linked. "As with migraines, sex headaches can be triggered by hormonal fluctuations, so if a woman is on a pill that delivers differing levels of hormones throughout the month, this may be a trigger," she said. Hormonal response differs based on the individual, so you'll want to get tested to see which levels are good for you, but "generally, more estrogen (excessive amounts) is the cause of the headaches, so reducing levels may help," she said.
If you are experiencing these head pains, try different methods of birth control. "Steady-release birth control options are the safest bet for women who experience sex headaches, such as implants, patches, or an IUD, or to be completely safe from any potential hormonal imbalances, try condoms," she said. Speak to your ob-gyn about the best options for you.
Also, while it's fun to get frisky and try new things in bed, if you're taking it to the extreme, where it's too rough or too adventurous, you might experience a sex headache, especially if you're prone to triggering them. Instead, you'll want to have "less intense sex," or being more careful when switching between different positions, Dr. Brahmbhatt said.
How to Treat It
Unless you have had stroke or heart complications, you shouldn't be too alarmed, but you can tell your physician of the symptoms and go on blood pressure medication to help manage the headaches, Dr. Brahmbhatt said.
If you don't have these heart issues, you can easily improve blood flow and circulation with a few lifestyle adjustments, such as exercising more and eating a healthy diet. "If your body is not used the the strain of sex or any physical activity, it's probably not a bad idea to slowly ramp your way up to a stronger mind and body," he said.
Taking ibuprofen before having sex might be able to dull any sensations and prevent those head pangs, he added.
Also, you'll want to stay hydrated. Being hydrated will improve your circulation and keep your brain and body cells healthy enough to ward off headaches, which can also be more prevalent when in a dehydrated state.
You can also try a series of exercises or practices to do before or during sex that can prevent sex headaches or mitigate the pain. "These may include deep breathing, mindfulness practices, and perhaps taking a more passive role in sexual activity," Dr. Richmond added.
Good news: "Sex headaches are almost always fixable, so I feel like part of my job is helping my clients to not feel discouraged," Dr. Richmond said. With a few adjustments, you can get back to riding that "O" out, pain-free.
Keep These 8 Diet-Busting Foods Off Your Plate If You Want to Lose Weight
When it comes down to choosing the right foods, you might think that ones that are normally touted as "healthy" should be good for you. Unfortunately, many foods have gotten this positive reputation, but could be a sugar or fat calorie bomb in disguise, or they might be hazardous to your health if eaten in excess. The good news is that we had a few dietitians weigh in on a few misleading "superfoods," so you can better manage your diet and portion control, keeping everything in balance.
Coconut Water
"Sometimes referred to as nature's sports drink, coconut water is superhigh in potassium, which is great for preventing cramps during VERY strenuous workouts but lower in sodium than a typical sports drink, which you also need to replenish during and after a prolonged workout," explains Lauren Harris-Pincus, MS, RDN, author of The Protein-Packed Breakfast Club, to POPSUGAR. "The problem is that short of professional athletes and those working out for several hours at a time, it's unnecessary and contains about 60-120 calories per 11-14 ounce bottle. Also, many people don't like the taste so it's tough to consume enough to rehydrate properly. So for a regular workout at the gym, stick with water," she says.
Rice Cakes
"Often thought of as a super-low-calorie food for dieters, rice cakes are sorely lacking in nutrition, fiber, and flavor. Since it takes a ton of nut butter, jelly, hummus, or other toppings to make them taste better, the calorie count can skyrocket quickly, especially since you need to eat several to feel any satisfaction," says Harris-Pincus. "And the flavored varieties can pack a lot of sodium and sugar without any significant nutritional benefit," she adds, so you'll need to be cautious when it comes to labels, too.
Dried Fruit
Not all dried fruit is created equal, and it takes some supermarket sleuthing to figure out which ones are better choices. "Adding raisins or other unsweetened dried fruits to oatmeal, yogurt, or salads is a great way to pump up the nutrition and fiber in your diet. However, make sure there is no sugar added (with the exception of cranberries that are too tart to eat plain)," says Harris-Pincus. "One brand of dried mango contains 160 calories and 32 grams of sugar in six slices (1.5 ounces)," she says. Definitely read your labels here.
Granola
"For some reason granola cereal has always had a health halo around it, but the problem is that not all varieties are healthy choices. There are many brands that are packed with added sugar and are high in calories," Keri Gans, MS, RDN, CDN tells POPSUGAR. "Breakfast cereals, like granola, should instead be high in fiber, which may lower cholesterol, help stabilize blood sugars, and promote bowel regularity, not added sugar," she says.
Green Juice
"Just because a juice promotes that it contains green veggies or other colorful veggies, it doesn't mean that the juice is actually providing a single serving of veggies. If you read the nutrition facts label on many brands, you may find that they actually contain zero percent of many important nutrients, such as vitamin A or vitamin C, and only provide extra calories," says Gans. "So read labels before buying, and look for a brand that contains at least one serving of veggies, such as a 5.5-ounce can of V8 Original vegetable juice, which provides 15 percent of the RDA of vitamin A and 60 percent of vitamin C," she suggests.
Salmon
Take note: this is for farm-raised only, not wild-caught salmon, which is totally good for you. "If you're eating farm-raised salmon, you may be getting plenty of omega-3s but also more saturated fat than in wild-caught," says Kelly R. Jones MS, RD, CSSD, LDN to POPSUGAR. Here's the real issue though: "Some farm-raised varieties are artificially dyed pink and others have been found to have traces of antibiotics used to treat the fish in their crowded conditions. According to the Environmental Working Group, imported farmed salmon is also one of the top five foods with the worst environmental footprint," she says. Be sure to check labels, and stay safe.
Bottled Salad Dressing
"Don't get me wrong: some bottled salad dressings that don't contain a ton of weird ingredients and aren't loaded with sugar are perfectly OK. But others contain lots of weird ingredients, like high fructose corn syrup, emulsifiers, and artificial coloring," Natalie Rizzo, MS, RD tells POPSUGAR. "It's so easy to just whisk together oil and vinegar and have a salad dressing from scratch. Don't mess up your healthy salad by dressing it with a funky bottled salad dressing," she says.
Trail Mix
"I don't really understand why trail mix is marketed as healthy because it usually is just nuts with candy," says Rizzo. "Yes, if you're spending the afternoon hiking, feel free to have the extra sugar. But for people who eat this snack at their desk or on their couch, it's no better than eating some candy with nuts on the side. In other words, it's full of sugar and calories that you likely don't need in a snack," she says.
These Are the Moves For Insanely Cut Abs
According to celeb trainer Gunnar Peterson, the secret to awesome abs is "working consistently, working in different planes of motion, and adding weights to your abdominal work." Take this advice to heart - here are a handful of exercises that put these principles into action using a set of dumbbells or a medicine ball. Incorporate a few of these exercises into your next workout to really kick your abs into action.
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.
I Did CrossFit 5 Days a Week For 1 Month and This Is What Happened
I don't really want to share half-naked selfies of myself with the world, but I feel compelled to. Because after years and years of working out four to six days a week, running and training for half-marathons, sweating it out in yoga classes, and eating healthy, I have finally caught a glimpse of the kind of transformation I have been wanting ever since I can remember. And it's only been one month.
Before
This might sound like a PSA, but so what? I really do owe it all to CrossFit. I had been wanting to try it for years but through two pregnancies, working, and taking care of my two young kiddos, I just felt like I couldn't carve out the time. It was kind of a lame excuse, actually, and I realized it was high time to make the time and do something for me. So on Mother's Day 2016, I bought myself a $250 On-Ramp course for CrossFit. No it's not culty, yes the workouts are frickin' hard, and yes, the community support really is amazing and was the key to my success.
After completing that course, I decided to go all in and committed to going for one month, five days a week. Here's what happened.
- Weight down: I have been the same weight for years, trying to lose those last pesky pounds that hide my muscles and make me look softer than I'd like. I was amazed when I stepped on the scale and realized I was at the weight that I lied about on my driver's license. Down four pounds! I mean, that's huge when you don't have a ton of weight to lose. CrossFit smacked my weight-loss plateau in the face!
- Less to pinch: OK, so the scale isn't everything. I also lost at least one inch around my waist. It's not an enormous change, but I can totally tell in the photos because it's the first area of my body my eyes move to whenever I look in the mirror. I have had a belly my entire life it seems, and I can finally see it slimming down and that little muffin top diminishing. I even noticed a little definition in my obliques!
- Arm definition: While brushing my teeth a couple weeks in, I happily noticed my biceps bulging but didn't think anything of it until the month was up and people commented on my arms. "What have you been doing?" they asked. Someone else said when they hugged me, my arms felt stronger. Even the Comcast guy who came to fix my cable commented on my "guns." I also noticed more definition in my upper back.
After
- Toned thighs: I've always had lean legs, thanks to running and inherited genes from my mom, but they look even more toned and defined. I slipped on a pair of leggings and loved that I could seen my quad muscles popping out a little. Thank you lunges and deadlifts!
- Perkier butt: I also inherited a flat butt from my mom, but a month full of squats, wall balls, and kettlebell swings have turned my flat rear into a more shapely, rounder, lifted bum. My husband has noticed, too. Bonus!
- More energy: I used to run for an hour in the morning from 6 to 7 a.m., and by late morning/early afternoon, I felt completely drained. My body felt exhausted, my brain felt foggy, and all I wanted was a nap. I craved sugar and chocolate because I thought it'd give me a pick-me-up. Of course, that backfired with an inevitable sugar crash, plus the extra calories didn't help me lose weight. I didn't feel tired once during this month-long CrossFit experiment. Even after getting up at 4:50 to make my 5:45 a.m. classes, I still had more physical and mental energy.
- Less hunger: Now this surprised me. I thought all that intense cardio and heavy lifting would leave me insatiably famished. But I felt way less hungry than I did after those hour-long runs. I never ate before those early a.m. classes for fear or puking, and by the time I got home, showered, and started working, I wasn't hungry until 9 or 10. I was also inspired to eat better because I was putting in all this time and energy, and I didn't want to undo all that by devouring half a box of Wheat Thins dipped in peanut butter.
- Varicose veins diminished: I thought the bulging blue varicose vein behind my left knee was the oh-so-special badge of honor I shared with moms everywhere. But after four weeks of CrossFit, I swear, it's hardly noticeable. The increased blood flow from all that heart-pumping cardio works magic! I feel way more confident in short shorts and skirts now.
- Stronger overall: Carry three bags of groceries on each arm from the car to the house? No problem! Lifting heavier weights for just one month made me stronger and more capable of handling life's challenges. When both kids' heads accidentally collided when reaching for the same flower, CrossFit mommy power came to the rescue and I could bend down and lift 80 pounds worth of kid without my knees giving out with energy left to kiss both boo-boos! Running feels easier, previously difficult yoga poses like One-Legged Crow are doable, and come Winter, I'm excited to see how CrossFit-strong legs tackle the ski slopes.
- Confidence: It wears on you when you spend years thinking about your weight while working hard to change your body and not seeing the results you're after. Making a change that actually worked was life changing. I feel more confident and am just overall happier. I also realized that I like pushing myself and since CrossFit encourages you to to get stronger every day, I'm embracing this feeling of pride, and it's inspiring me to keep pushing myself. I see now why people become hooked on WODs. It only took one month, but I'm addicted now, too. I can't wait to see how my body changes in the months to come.
If You're Trying to Lose Weight, Stop Doing These 5 Things
While some have tried pretty shocking techniques to lose weight, there are also some common, long-held techniques that seem like a good idea - and may even work at first - but are absolutely going to backfire and end up causing weight gain. If you're on a quest to a slimmer you, avoid doing these five things.
Having a Cut-Off Time For Eating
If you've heard that you shouldn't eat past 6, 7, or 8 p.m. in order to lose weight, that's just not true. Food eaten at night doesn't automatically get stored as fat, as previously believed. What time you stop eating has nothing to do with how much weight you'll gain or lose - it's the total calories you consume in a day that matters. If you are a late-night snacker, opt for healthier options that are easy to digest.
Deprivation
Whether it's all carbs, all gluten, all sugar, all baked goods, or all whatever, certified dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition believes this is not a life your pizza-ice-cream-pasta-loving self can sustain. After a period of forced deprivation, most people will just throw in the towel and devour an enormous plate of whatever they're living without, says Langevin. Or, if they are able to go through a period of elimination, once they go back to eating these foods, the weight they lost will slowly creep back on. When it comes to maintaining weight loss, moderation is key.
Subscribing to a Low-Fat Diet
Going no fat or low fat was a huge trend back in the '90s, a fad that we are glad has mostly passed. Most low-fat foods are packed with sugar to add flavor, and as a result, they end up causing weight gain - especially belly fat. Also of importance is that we've since learned that eating healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and nuts can actually help to increase metabolism and can burn away belly fat. Healthy fats also fill you up longer, so go ahead and add nuts to your smoothie, avocado to your soup, or roast your veggies in olive oil.
Skipping Out on Meals
In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit. And while reducing the number of calories in your diet is one way to do this, skipping an entire meal is not the way to go. Starving the body can slow down its metabolism and lead to overeating later. And let's face it, if you're running on empty, you won't have the energy for a calorie-crushing workout later. Beyond adopting a healthier diet in general, the best way to reduce your calorie intake is to find ways to make healthy swaps in your favorite foods and also by choosing lower-calorie foods that are high in fiber, protein, or whole grains, which can better keep you full.
Only Exercising
Working out is definitely part of the weight-loss equation, but if you think it means you can eat whatever you want, you're not going to be happy with the results. Keep in mind that a 30-minute run at a pace of six mph (10 minutes per mile) burns about 270 calories. In order to lose a pound a week, you need to burn or cut out 500 calories a day. So that means coupled with your 30-minute workout, you still need to cut out 220 calories from your diet, which most likely does not translate to eating everything in sight. Research actually proves that "abs are made in the kitchen," which means that what you eat - focusing on eating healthy portions throughout the day - can be even more important than how much you work out.
A Celebrity Trainer's Weight-Loss Rule: 3 Miles or 30 Minutes
Before trainer Kit Rich became a Pilates instructor to the stars (and healthy-lifestyle ambassador for brands like Lucy), she was just a woman trying yet another crazy, extreme, or unhealthy diet in order to lose weight. "I tried everything," she told POPSUGAR, adding that she also suffered from eating disorders and body dysmorphia. "I was desperate to lose weight. So I would do, like what most women do, those freaking crazy juice diets. I would do all these extreme things, but it always brought me back to the other extreme."
After years of yo-yo dieting, Kit finally hit on her problem: she was working out in a way that wasn't sustainable. Her solution was one that helped her lose 30 pounds and one that she still shares with her students today, whether she's teaching a private class in LA or going on tour with a musician client. Her tip? Make it manageable. Specifically, Kit says that her mantra of "three miles or 30 minutes, every day" is what helped her finally break free from weight fluctuations and keep the pounds off for good. As in: run, walk, or hike your way to three miles a day, or do a 30-minute workout instead. "I really do believe wholeheartedly that the middle road is the way to go," she says. "Anything extreme is not long-lasting."
As a former athlete, this manageable mantra helped keep Kit from burning out on her workouts when she was trying to lose weight. "I come from a background of injury, and I had knee surgery, so you can't tell me to go and take some crazy bootcamp class," she says. "Because my knee will start to hurt, and then what's going to start to happen, I'm going to freak out that I won't be able to do that for the rest of my life." Instead, just telling yourself to do something little every day can help you get a hold of your health and your weight-loss goals. "Women need to feel empowered," she says. "They need to feel like what they're doing is something that they somewhat enjoy and that they can have a grip on. And that's why I believe in this three or 30 rule."
Inspired by Kit's message? Check out all our 30-minute workouts here!
25 Amazing Butt Exercises - No Equipment Required!
You don't need to be doing tons of weighted squats to get a round, firm, butt. These effective bodyweight moves will make your buns burn - and might make it tough to walk down stairs tomorrow - but that lets you know they're working! Add these tush-toning moves into your strength-training routine, or keep scrolling to the five booty-sculpting videos at the end.
These Are All the Beverages You Can Drink When You're Doing Intermittent Fasting
Starting a new diet is always a challenge, and intermittent fasting (IF) is no different, although some (including myself) would consider IF a lifestyle rather than a diet or trend. The most common form of IF is the 16:8 formula, where you fast for 16 hours a day and eat all your meals within an eight-hour window. It may sound difficult to someone who has never tried it before, but it's totally doable!
If you speak to your doctor or a dietitian and decide that IF is right for you, you'll probably have a lot of questions about how to embark on your fasting journey. One very common question is what you can and cannot drink during your fasting window.
I've been doing IF for about seven months now, and I struggled with this in the beginning. When you first start fasting, your body looks for just about any way to cheat because being hungry is initially uncomfortable (don't worry, though, your hunger will eventually decrease over time). That means you'll probably try to drink anything and everything in sight, from soda to juice to smoothies.
But there are pretty much only three things you can drink when you're fasting:
- Coffee: Unfortunately, you can't add anything into your coffee when you're in your fasting window, like cream, milk, or sugar, because this will throw off your fasting window.
- Tea: Same thing here - tea is only appropriate if it's free of sweeteners or additives.
- Water: Whatever you do, don't skip out on drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will prevent dehydration and help curb your hunger.
That's your magical trio of IF beverages! If you find other zero-calorie beverages you like, like sparkling water or Hint water, feel free to add those to the list as well. I recommend stocking up on tasty teas that bring a little excitement into your fasting window, like rooibos, green tea, etc. Stay away from things like juice, sweetened tea and other beverages, and alcohol. If it feels impossible in the beginning to only drink the above, give it time. Your body will adjust before you know it.
7 Bathroom Updates That Increased the Value of My Home
After buying our condo three years ago, my husband and I knew we'd eventually have to redo the guest bathroom in our hallway. It had a wobbly shower insert, dated finishes, and an impractical vanity without much storage. I hated going in there. So after a couple years of saving - and avoiding the room - we decided to bite the bullet and take on a small remodel project.
A before photo of my bathroom.
An after photo of my bathroom.
Creating a bathroom that reflected my own style was one of the main goals of the project. But I also wanted to stay in budget and avoid quirky updates that would decrease the value of my home. After doing some research, I discovered where I could save - and where I should splurge.
Don't just take my word for it. I caught up with HGTV star Scott McGillivray to check my work. After talking to him, I now know which updates gave me the most bang for my buck. McGillivray is the host of Income Property and wrote How to Add Value to Your Home. According to him, "next to the kitchen, the bathroom is the most important room in the house when it comes to resale."
That doesn't mean you have to spend more to make more. There are specific updates in the bathroom that are worth the investment, and others areas where a little goes a long way. Based on McGillivray's expertise these were the seven changes that had the biggest impact on my home's value.
Change the mirror.
"My number one suggestion is to get rid of the frameless builder grade mirror over the vanity," says McGillivray. Check! I did just that. We found this modern mirror ($240) that came with the bonus of a built-in shelf to hold candles, a small vase, or guest toiletries. It also acts as a statement piece.
Choose affordable tile.
What's the best place to save when you're redoing your bathroom? Tile, says McGillivray. "There are so many great, inexpensive tile options out there. I don't know why anyone would blow their budget on high-end tile." The marble hexagon floor tile is one of my favorite details in my bathroom, but it didn't break the bank. We were dedicated to getting an affordable price and limited ourselves to looking at wholesale warehouses - not even entertaining more expensive options.
Can't help yourself? "If there's a really expensive version that you've fallen in love with use it as a feature somewhere, like over the vanity, and then surround it with a less expensive version," recommends McGillivray. He also has this advice for making less-expensive tile last: "Make sure you've got a good waterproofing system like Kerdi board underneath it. This will ensure that whatever tile you choose it will last as long as you live in the house."
Get rid of 1980s wall texture.
I was determined to rid myself of that orange-peel look on the bathroom walls. But I wondered, was the more modern clean look worth the expense? "Yes," McGillivray reassures. "If it looks dated it indicates that it might not be well taken care of, and it might put potential buyers off." It's the same with those classic blue and pink fixtures, he says. "Some people like the retro feel, but they can be a nightmare for resale value."
Opt for frameless glass shower doors.
"Two things that are seriously worth considering are frameless glass shower doors and heated floors," says McGillivray. "I wouldn't go so far as to say they always add value, but I try to include them whenever possible." While we didn't need heated floors in San Francisco, we did change out our aging frosted shower insert for glass doors and blue glass subway tile.
Increase storage.
I decided to chuck my existing vanity, which was an awkward height and had no shelves or drawers inside. I traded it for the GODMORGON / BRÅVIKEN model from Ikea, which has deep drawers and a decent amount of space around the sink.
A vanity with storage must always be considered, according to McGillivray. "Don't get me wrong, pedestal sinks are nice," he says. "But they're really only practical in small powder rooms. Get as big a vanity as the room can handle and make sure it's got plenty of storage space."
Mix high and low.
"I've never believed that you have to spend a ton of money to make a room look great and to get a good return on investment," McGillivray reassures. "Spend money and invest in high-quality items when it comes to the items you touch everyday - like faucets and hardware."
I'm happy to say I took that approach. As mentioned, I opted for the GODMORGON / BRÅVIKEN vanity, which cost $479 from Ikea. It looks remarkably like the modern high-end vanities that go for thousands of dollars. I paired this "low" item with high-end hardware. We went for sink and shower pieces from the European brand Grohe. Chances are that potential buyers will notice the quality brand name, if and when we resell.
Add non-permanent personality.
"When it comes to resale value, you always want to keep the major elements clean and simple. Stick with neutral colors," says McGillivray. But let's be honest, I wasn't selling my place tomorrow and wanted to have a little bit of fun. According to McGillivray, it's safe to personalize things like lighting, hardware, and accessories. That's what we did with our light from Cedar & Moss ($269) and print from Minted ($165).
"There's no particular accessory that adds value," McGillivray explains. "It's more about how they work together to make the space look fresh and updated." Admittedly, when it came to our accessories my husband and I didn't worry about matchy-matchy. We wanted accessories that had the same overall feel, without obsessing over whether the wood or metals matched. And here's the beauty: if the next buyer doesn't like those non-permanent details, they can always change them.
11 Supersimple Ways to Make Your Home Smell So Fresh and So Clean
Have you ever come home from a long day of work, stepped through your door, and noticed that your home smells a little musty? Between lingering food smells from the kitchen, damp towels in the bathroom, and other day-to-day activities, there are lots of things that contribute to your home smelling a little less than fresh. It happens to the best of us, but luckily it's an easy fix! DIY air fresheners, houseplants aplenty, and some essential cleaning tips are some of our favorite ways to get a fresh home that smells amazing.
The 7 Best Salads at Trader Joe's
During a busy week, Trader Joe's extensive selection of premade salads can be a real lunchtime savior. Not only are there a variety of flavorful, filling options, but at around $4 a pop, these salads are much more economical than takeout. We asked our editorial staff to chime in with their favorites; pick up a couple on your next Trader Joe's run, and let us know if we missed your go-to.
Parmigiano Reggiano vs. Pecorino Romano: What's the Difference?
While both Parmigiano Reggiano (aka parmesan) and Pecorino Romano are hard, salty, Italian cheeses that are often served grated, they're not the same nor 100 percent interchangeable. Here's what you need to know:
- Production: Parmigiano Reggiano is made from cow's milk and is aged a minimum of 12 months (two and even three-year versions are available at some cheese shops). Pecorino Romano is made from sheep's milk and is aged a minimum of five months (and up to eight).
- Region: True Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano are DOP-designated foods, meaning they are produced in a specific region of Italy according to set standards. (This ensures a consistent product.) Parmigiano Reggiano can only be produced in the Emilia-Romagna region (which includes Parma, hence its name), and the Mantova provence of Lombardy. Pecorino Romano can only be produced in the regions of Tuscany, Sardinia (where much of the production occurs), and Lazio.
- Appearance: Parmigiano Reggiano is hard and golden in color, with a waxy rind stamped with "Parmigiano Reggiano" in dot lettering. Pecorino Romano is hard and white (as sheep's milk cheeses tend to be), with a waxy mottled black rind.
- Flavor: While both are salty and umami-rich, Pecorino Romano is saltier and tangy, whereas Parmigiano Reggiano is nutty and a bit milder overall. While similar in flavor, they're not interchangeable - some recipes call for a mix of the two, whereas others only call for one. We tend to heed these recommendations, but you do you.
The 16 Best Italian Foods You Can Get at Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's has some of the best hidden gems among its stocked aisles, including amazing Italian foods that rival products from artisanal markets. I take Italian food very seriously - garlicky pasta for life - and I swear by a handful of Trader Giotto's cheeses, pastas, and dried goods, not only for their quality but also for their price. Plenty of POPSUGAR editors agree with me, so I've crowdsourced all of our must-have Italian foods from Trader Joe's that you'll want to pick up when you've got plans for a wine and cheese night or you need a quick pasta dinner. Whether you're more of a gnocchi kind of girl or you live for the perfect frozen pizza, we've got you covered.
15 Wines From Whole Foods That Will Knock Your Socks Off
Picture this: you're trying to get everything ready for a fabulous party, but you're crunched for time (OK, you don't have to picture this - we have all been here). You stop at Whole Foods to get some party staples and are thinking about all the other stops you have to make and things you have to do when you get home . . . like throw your dirty clothes in a closet and do something with all the dishes that have piled up in the sink.
You're thinking you may have to phone a friend to handle the adult beverages, but you're in luck. At Whole Foods, the wine selection is quite varied, and the grocer actually has a Master Sommelier employed as its global beverage buyer. So, go ahead: pick up a sampling of wines, and impress your gathered friends with the answer when they say, "This wine is delicious. Where did you get it?"
6 of the Best New Canned Wines You'll Want to Drink All Summer Long
Canned wine is having a moment and for good reason. Companies are catching on to the fact that canned wine is not only convenient for packing on the go and for making entertaining easy, but they know that it can taste just as good as bottled wine. Along with boozy push pops, canned wine is trending, and you're going to be seeing it everywhere. I got a first-hand look of some of the best new canned wines on the market at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, and trust me, these nontraditional wines stack up to even the fanciest wines that lined the festival tents. Whether you prefer red-wine-based sangria, Rosé, or Chardonnay, there's a canned wine that's going to be calling your name. Read on to discover six of the best new canned wines you can buy for picnics, beach days, and beyond, and get ready to crack open a can - no wine opener required.
Float Through the Summer on These Inflatable Pool Accessories
Summer is in the air! With the weather warming up and school finally coming to a close, it's easy to get excited about those long, lazy Summer days. Our favorite place to go during the Summer is by far the pool, and the best accessory (besides a cute swimsuit) is a pool float! So here are 10 fun pool floats from Walmart everyone can enjoy, not just the kids.
21 Reasons to Bust Out a Ramekin
If you're not making use of your individual-sized ramekins, it's about time you start: the vessel is the perfect way to go when serving dinner for two (or one, for that matter). Yes, the ramekin can be used for special-occasion foods like crème brulée, but there is a host of other dinner and dessert items one can make, too. Take a look!
Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry, Cooking for Keeps, and Bev Cooks
Your Essential Wedding Registry Checklist
While getting engaged can be the happiest moment of your life, it can also be incredibly overwhelming. In the coming months, when you're planning your wedding and making arrangements to marry the one you love, there are a lot of decisions to mull over. One thing you won't have to worry about is your registry: we've created the essential wedding registry checklist! All you have to do is download it, print it, fold it up, and place it in your purse, and then you can use it as a guide when you go shopping for your registry. What are you waiting for? Get it now, or pin it for later:
This Superaffordable Furniture Set (From Target) Totally Transformed My Ugly Living Room
I wouldn't say that I hate my living room, but I really dislike it. I am fortunate enough to live in a rent-controlled apartment in San Francisco, but along with saving money comes certain sacrifices. My place has not been updated since at least the very early 2000s and it's covered in dirt-brown carpets and light brown walls (why?). After my roommates moved out, I was left with an empty, old-looking space I had no idea what to do with. Luckily, I inherited Crate and Barrel couches from a friend, which are amazing but also brown. In an effort to spruce up and brighten my space, I decided to purchase this stylish Project 62 Loring 5 Shelf Ladder Bookcase ($100) and Project 62 Loring Console Table ($130) from Target.
After seeing the pieces while walking through the home section at Target, I couldn't get them out of my head. I strolled down the aisle several more times on my annual money-wasting trip before I deciding to finally take the plunge. I loved that they were a matching set. The light oak wood with a vintage finish was the perfect accent to brighten up my room and the black iron edging matched my black kitchen table and chairs, pulling the whole room together.
I set up the bookshelf with all my favorite fashion magazines and pretty candles, adding a touch of decor and organization to the room. I decided to use the console as an entryway table in my hall leading into the living room. Never again will my kitchen counter be cluttered with mail and lost keys. Now everything has a place and stays organized. The best part: the quality. I was shocked at the sturdiness and style of these pieces considering I didn't have to break the bank for them. Every time I have guests over, they ask me where those pieces are from and are shocked when I tell them the price.
Improve your living space and try them for yourself!
Rescue Me! My Sauce Is Too Salty
We've all experienced that dreadful moment when all you can taste in a sauce is salt. Whether you reduced the sauce to a thick sludge or went a little salt happy toward the end of cooking, try to fix it with these tips before you nix it.
The antidote depends on the nature of the sauce: for French cream- or butter-based sauces, add more cream or a little brown sugar to neutralize the salt. With tomato-based sauces, brown sugar creates a sweet counterpoint. And for a lighter sauce, such as an herb-based one, squeeze in a little lemon; its acidity will help to balance out the saltiness.
The same goes for the state of the sauce, too. If a sauce has been reduced too much, then dilute it (and its sodium level) with unseasoned stock. Adding wine is another option, although it's a little tricky; if the alcohol does not cook out entirely, then the sauce will become bitter. If you choose to add wine, then be prepared to simmer the sauce for a while until the alcohol burns off.
You'll Be Hungry Just Looking at These 15 Food Pool Floats
We have an obsession with pool floats. They're fun, cute, and the ideal Summer accessory. You know what else we love? Food. So when you combine the two together, it essentially makes for the ultimate pool party. From pizza to wine to, yes, even avocados, we've got a pool float for everyone's taste. Just keep reading to shop, and float on.
More Than 40 Salads For Those Who Feel Meh About Lettuce
Salad recipes don't begin and end with a head of lettuce or a bag of mixed greens. While they have their time and place, it's easy to get bored with these delicate (in both flavor and texture) greens. Instead, make one of these exciting recipes starring everything from cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli, and brussels sprouts to juicy tomatoes, crisp carrots, and even celery.
Whether You Want to Hike or Relax, Here Are 50 States of Beautiful Beaches
When I go to the beach, it's to relax and get some sun. When some of my friends go to the beach, it's to grab a kayak and get out on the water. Everyone has their different agendas when they hit the beach, so it's a good thing the US has plenty of options for providing a whole host of activities. This selection of the best beaches in every state doesn't necessarily include all relaxing beaches or all beaches filled with adventure, but each one has something great about it that makes it worth visiting. Next time you hit the road for vacation, consider making a stop at one of these beautiful locations.
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