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.
lundi 5 novembre 2018
37 A+ Outfits Meghan Packed For Her Royal Tour
We had long awaited Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's 16-day tour to Australia, Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga, and New Zealand, and the royal couple kicked things off with a special announcement: they're expecting their first child! Therefore, Meghan's appearances confirmed a tasteful list of designers she trusts to create custom outfits for her budding maternity wardrobe.
While traveling, Meghan wore everything from a blazer from her good friend Serena Williams's collection to Princess Diana's butterfly earrings and bracelet, and she even borrowed from the boys by sporting Prince Harry's puffer! How adorable is that? Read on to see how Meghan glowed on her trip Down Under, working 37 different looks so effortlessly.
- Additional reporting by Nikita Ramsinghani
Meghan Markle May Have Officially Accepted Princess Diana's Aquamarine Ring as Her Own - Wouldn't You?
Meghan Markle has already worn Princess Diana's jewelry multiple times, and she brought along the late royal's butterfly earrings and diamond bracelet for her tour of Australia with Prince Harry. But her most significant homage to Diana came with the aquamarine Asprey ring Meghan styled with her Stella McCartney reception gown on the evening of her wedding. Diana famously wore the gorgeous keepsake on the red carpet in October 1996 - and she also happened to be in Australia. Coincidence? We think not.
Now it seems like Meghan might have officially added the design to her own collection. At the very least, she's become dedicated to it, flaunting it for a second time by her husband's side in Tonga. Meghan amped up her white Theia dress with the glamorous piece, officially proving that your "something blue" doesn't need to be reserved for your wedding week. Meghan's appearance reminded us of her bridal look through and through, but it's the beauty of the icy gemstone that will stick with us most. Read on to see how it was passed down to Meghan, and get close-ups of her two major moments wearing it.
Meghan Markle's Chic Puffer Jacket Is the Only Coat You'll Want to Wear This Fall
Is there anything Meghan Markle can't wear? Well, the answer is a resounding no. On her last day in New Zealand, the Duchess of Sussex swapped her pretty Stella McCartney midi dress for basic black skinny jeans by Mother Denim ($196), a navy Givenchy blouse, and black The Starling flats by Birdies ($120) when she and Prince Harry went for a walk in the forest. The star of her outfit, however, was her chic and understated puffer jacket from Scandinavian brand Norrona, which she adorably borrowed from her husband.
Loved by celebrities and royalty alike (who could forget Kate Middleton's bright number?), the puffer jacket has been enjoying a well-deserved renaissance, and Meghan is here to prove that finding a cozy yet cute Winter coat really doesn't have to be a struggle. Read on to get a closer look at the duchess's latest tour outfit, then get your hands on this royalty-approved jacket before it sells out, as well as similar options.
13 Rose Gold Stocking Stuffers That Will Make You Feel Fancy as Hell
Our obsession with rose gold is undying - the hue is too pretty to resist! If you're looking for holiday stocking stuffers in the metallic color, we're all over it. These glitzy pieces will be the prettiest gifts hanging from the hearth. Shop through our selection of jewelry, sunglasses, and many more accessories ahead.
Meet the Princess Who Dresses Better Than Kate Middleton
If you thought Kate Middleton had quite the fashion-forward wardrobe, perhaps you haven't been following the outfit choices of another royal: Princess Mary of Denmark. The polished dresser beat out the Duchess of Cambridge as most stylish royal in a recent poll conducted by Hello! magazine. Out of 30,000 readers, a whopping 30 percent were team Mary, a number that immediately sparked our interest.
So we went back into the archives and found plenty of Mary's chicest looks, which, truth be told, may be a bit more daring than those seen on Kate. Read on to see them all as we hold out hope for Kate this year.
These 16 Slow-Cooker Recipes All Have Fall's Most Versatile Vegetable: Butternut Squash
Sure, Fall is the season of pumpkin spice and everything nice but this time of the year also means squashes everywhere. From spaghetti squash to delicata squash, the possibilities are endless, but today we're celebrating butternut squash. It's not only a great source of fiber, but it's also filled with other key nutrients that give the squash its beautiful deep orange color. You won't believe, for example, that one cup of butternut squash has more potassium than a banana. The best part, health aside, is that this vegetable is just as delicious in sweet or savory dishes.
If you've never cooked with butternut squash before or just want to get creative, we have 16 slow-cooker recipes, so you can enjoy squash season stress-free.
Pack a Different Healthy Lunch Every Day This Month With Over 30 Fresh Recipe Ideas
The holidays are almost upon us, but don't lose sight of your healthy goals! Kick-start your healthiest season yet and bring clean, wholesome, nutritious lunches to work.
From warming Fall soups to fresh salads and mason jar bowls, you can chill, reheat, and pack - meaning these meals are totally office-ready. Best part? They're low-calorie, high-protein, and made with whole, natural ingredients. Who's hungry?
I Resolved to Be Healthier and Happier in 2018, and I'm Still Going Strong - Here's How
I remember exactly how driven I was to invest in myself heading into the New Year. It wasn't that I was exceptionally lost, rather I simply hadn't been focusing enough on the things that would improve my well-being from the inside out. I was working too much, eating in ways that didn't fuel my body, and neglecting to nourish my soul, and I had fallen out of my once-religious cycle of working out consistently.
It was a culmination of acknowledging all these things that truly motivated me. And while I find the tradition of New Year's resolutions a little silly (you can make a change anytime), I did use the year shift as my turning point. Here's how I reshaped my life in just 12 months.
Here's When You Actually Go Into Fat-Burning Mode (It's Not When You Think)
Experts agree that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training are great for losing weight and lowering your body fat percentage. We hate to break it to you, but the process of burning fat doesn't happen instantly. To better understand the relationship between burning fat and exercise, POPSUGAR spoke to Holly Lofton, MD, director of the medical weight management program at NYU Langone Health.
In order to decrease the amount of body fat you have, Dr. Lofton explained, "We first need to burn off our glycogen (the stored form of carbohydrates)." Because "fat is a long-term storage unit of the body for energy," meaning your body is going to try to hold on to fat for as long as possible, this can be difficult to do.
"When you first start out doing an activity, your body's going to burn up any recently eaten carbohydrates," Dr. Lofton explained. For example, if you had a banana before training, your body will convert the carbohydrates in the banana first because it's the quickest form of energy. Once the energy from the banana has been used up, Dr. Lofton said your body will then burn glycogen, "your big, stored sugar molecules in your liver." After your body has burned the glycogen, Dr. Lofton said "depending on your fasted state, your nutritional state, your body will start to burn fat after that exercise period is over, so you don't directly burn fat while you're exercising."
According to Dr. Lofton, there is one exception: long-distance running. She explained that marathon runners, for example, will store a lot of glycogen and burn it in order to run for hours at a time, and eventually they'll be able to access some fat.
If you aren't a long-distance runner, your body won't be able to access your fat stores quick enough during a HIIT workout or strength session. For these styles of training, Dr. Lofton explained that post-workout is when the fat-burning magic takes place. She added that a majority of the time, the process of burning fat happens during fasted periods like sleeping and other daily activities.
To increase your post-workout fat burn, Dr. Lofton recommends doing exercises and workouts that require a greater energy expenditure and build muscle, and not consuming excess calories. If you're not sure where to begin, the following workouts and programs are a great place to start:
It's Getting Kind of Cozy in Here With These November Must-Have Products
We are in full swing, loving up Fall, but it's getting chillier! Why not treat yourself to some of these products to keep you cozy and inspire your wellness goals as we head into the holiday season? From warm and wonderful sweatshirts, to stylish workout leggings, to comfy new kicks, we are all about these health and fitness finds!
Mary Keitany Is the Winner of the 2018 New York Marathon
On Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018, Mary Keitany won her fourth New York City Marathon, becoming only the second woman to win the title four times. The 36-year-old runner from Kenya finished the race with an official time of 2:22:48, beating her personal course record by 50 seconds. Her time is officially the second-fastest winning time and the third-fastest time overall in race history at the New York City Marathon.
Vivian Cheruiyot, also of Kenya, placed second, finishing with an official time of 2:26:02. The defending champion, American Shalane Flanagan, finished the race with a time of 2:26:22, nearly 30 seconds faster than her winning time last year. American runner Molly Huddle came in fourth, running a time of 2:22:44.
Mushroom Drinks? Yes, They Promise to Boost Your Energy
Believe it or not, the latest buzz in the health and wellness world is mushrooms. Now before you turn your head away and label this a worthless new trend to try, hear us out. Mushrooms are a type of adaptogen, plants and herbs known to help with immunity, stress, sleep, and mental performance. Their use as supplements is nothing new - adaptogens like mushrooms, ginseng, holy basil, sea buckthorn, licorice root, Rhodiola rosea, and mushrooms have been used for centuries in herbal medicine.
But your eyes aren't tricking you. Yes, you have seen reishi, cordyceps, ashwagandha, and lion's mane mushrooms all over health stores and wellness websites, used as ingredients in teas, infusions, and drinks. Although adaptogens are available in pill form, if having tea, protein shakes, or coffee is already a part of your daily routine, mushroom drinks and powders are a great addition to your diet. Here are 14 that promise to help give your body what it needs.
Have Your Cake and Eat It Too, Thanks to These Paleo Mixes
Even though you might feel your best on a Paleo diet, we're all only human when the the smell of pancakes in the morning hits. Fear not. Paleo baking mixes exist, which means you can enjoy cakes, waffles, and even pizza while still sticking to your eating plan. Plus, they're all available on Amazon, so you can have pumpkin paleo muffins in just two days! Our stomachs are grumbling already.
15 Foods That Will Put You to Sleep (and Keep You There!)
You probably know at least a couple tried-and-true tricks for falling asleep faster and getting a better night's sleep - like putting your phone away and not dozing off with the TV on. But there are foods that you can snack on before hitting your pillow that help better than counting sheep! It's not surprising that caffeine and sugar did not make the list, so steer clear of those and nosh on one of these to have you sleeping through the night.
These Are the Breads That a Nutritionist Eats at Home
There's no need to banish bread from your diet, as long as you stick with our dietitian-approved slices and bread-buying guidelines. When buying bread, look beyond claims like "7-grain," "sprouted," or "multi-grain." Many loaves sound healthy but are not much more than enriched white flour. Yes - you need to read those labels!
Look for breads that are made of whole grains and offer:
- No more than 110 calories per serving
- At least 2 grams fiber
- No more than 4 grams (1 tsp.) sugar
- 3 or more grams of protein
- Zero grams of saturated fat
Healthiest Breads
Here are five breads that meet this criteria. Look for them on the shelves of your local grocery store.
Dave's Killer Bread Thin-Sliced 21 Whole Grains and Seeds*#
With lots of great taste and texture, this slice is one of the healthiest slices you can buy.
Per Slice: 60 calories, 1g fat (0 g sat fat), 12g carbs, 3g sugar, 3g fiber, 3g protein
Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Whole Grain Bread
Fiber- and nutrient-rich sprouted grains, lentils, and soybeans make this a best bet.
Per Slice: 80 calories, .5g fat (0g sat fat), 15g carbs, 0g sugar, 3g fiber, 4g protein
Oroweat 100% Whole Wheat
Each of these wholesome slices will provide the foundation for a healthier sandwich.
Per Slice: 90 calories, 1g fat (0g sat fat), 18g carbs, 3g sugars, 2g fiber, 4g protein
The Baker 9-Grain Bread
A substantial slice made from a variety of wholesome grains like whole wheat, rye, oats, spelt millet, and more to provide a great taste and texture.
Per Slice: 100 calories, 1.5g fat (0g sat fat), 18g carbs, 0g sugars, 3g fiber, 4g protein
Roman Meal 100% Whole Wheat
A whole-grain packed slice that will help crush your cravings.
Per Slice: 100 calories, 1.5g fat (0g sat fat), 10g carbs, 3g sugar, 3g fiber, 5g protein
*Non-GMO Project Verified
#Certified Organic
We Found 15 Gifts For People Who Love to Sleep, but Now We're About to Buy Them All For Ourselves
We spend a third of our lives sleeping, so it's vital that we get quality slumber whenever we can. Even if you yourself sleep like a log, you probably know someone who may be chronically tired or struggles with getting shut-eye. In fact, it's estimated that 68 percent of Americans struggle with sleep at least once a week. So, the next time you're shopping around for holidays and birthdays, why not skip the boxed candy and give the insomniac in your life something to help them sleep?
From lavender-vanilla lotion to weighted blankets, keep reading to see what products make great gifts for the restless in your life!
4 Easy Hacks That'll Help You Stick to Your WW Plan, According to a Celebrity Chef
I always tell people just how easy it is to stick with WW (formerly Weight Watchers), because it's not really a diet; it's simply a lifestyle. I firmly believe this, but that doesn't mean it's easy 100 percent of the time. There are absolutely days when I come home from work and all I want to do is either eat popcorn and M&M's (my favorite snack) or just order food, but neither of those options is a healthy choice (unless you order a salad, and that is never going to be what I order).
I sat down with Chef Cat Cora, a WW ambassador and all-around amazing chef, to figure out exactly how to make healthy eating a breeze. As someone who is also on the plan, she knows all there is to know about preparing healthy foods and sticking to healthy habits, even when you're feeling lazy and uninspired. For her four best hacks to make sure you're never off-track, keep reading.
Struggling on Your Own Weight-Loss Journey? Get Inspired by These 75-Pound Transformations
If you're on a weight-loss journey, you'll find instant inspiration in these extraordinary transformation photos. They prove that although losing 75 pounds is no easy feat and takes extreme dedication and commitment, it is totally possible!
According to 3 Experts, This Is How Often You Should Lift Weights If You Want to Lose Weight
When people come to me with the goal of getting stronger, building lean muscle, and losing body fat, one of the first things I do is advise them to incorporate strength training into their workout routines. Not just because I personally love to lift, but also because the proof is in the research.
According to a 2006 review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, strength training won't just enhance your performance: "The general benefits for men and women include an increase in bone mass and lean mass, improved body composition (due to decreased fat mass), cardiovascular fitness, strength, and an enhanced sense of well-being."
Strength training once in a blue moon won't help you achieve your weight-loss goals, which is why I tapped a couple of professional trainers and strength experts for the 411 on the best weightlifting practices to help you lose weight.
Related: A 4-Week Beginner's Guide to Weightlifting (Workouts Included!)
How Often You Should Lift If You're a Beginner
Pratik Patel, director of performance nutrition and assistant strength and conditioning coach for the New York Giants, told POPSUGAR that he recommends beginners start with one to two strength sessions a week to ensure their muscles have enough time to recover.
I typically advise beginning with two to three strength sessions per week; two if someone is completely new, and three if they're more athletic. It's important not to go too hard too soon as you're getting acclimated to strength training. The last thing you want to do is lift with poor technique and get injured or experience extreme soreness, leaving you unable to continue your weekly training plan.
Since squatting to sit on the toilet shouldn't feel like a workout, which is why celebrity trainer Stephen Cheuk, certificate IV Australian Institute of Personal Trainers certified trainer and founder of S10 Training in New York City, said beginners should start with two strength sessions a week. He added that people new to strength training will "typically drop body fat and weight quicker" in the beginning, usually around a minimum of one percent of body fat or one pound per week, but this will vary per person.
Related: New to Weightlifting? Here Are 16 Exercises You Need to Know
How Often You Should Lift If You're More Experienced
As your body begins to adapt to the initial soreness (here's what to know about exercising when you're sore), Pratik recommends gradually following more advanced training programs. "A more advanced person who works out most days of the week for the majority of the year will be able to train specific muscle groups two to three times per week with adequate rest and have no major issues," he said.
If you're accustomed to working out but new to strength training, I recommend starting with three sessions a week for a minimum of four to six weeks. If you're happy with your results, stick to three strength sessions a week; if not, I recommend reviewing how heavy you've been lifting, the set and rep scheme, and the lifts you're doing. Doing so will help you determine whether or not you're lifting enough weight and if you need to diversify and progress the exercises you're doing along with the reps and sets (here's how to determine your reps, sets, and weight).
For those who are more experienced, Stephen also advised training three times a week. Along with lifting more often, he also suggested focusing on more specific details like whether or not you're taking too little or too much rest in between exercises.
Related: Build Muscle and Improve Your Stability With This Trainer's 5-Move Strength Workout
Remember: these are just general guidelines. You may find that you need to lift less or more often and incorporate other styles of training into your routine in order to achieve your fitness goals. As always, I recommend working with an experienced trainer to teach you how to lift and help you devise a training plan specific to your goals.
Why You Might Be Feeling Bummed Instead of on Top of the World After Running a Marathon
A few weeks ago, I was flooded with endorphins and pride as I crossed the finish line at my first-ever marathon in Chicago. (That's me in the picture above, flinging my arms up in triumph.) That night, I even felt up to drinking wine and getting low on the dance floor, adrenaline still threading its way through my veins. The next morning, however, I landed in a much different place. I was in physical pain; my IT band and knee were killing me. I was irritable; I snapped at my boyfriend over where to eat brunch. I felt groggy and flat; emotionally, I was all over the place.
I could only compare the feeling to the sad, sinking sensation I had as a little kid the day after Christmas. After months of anticipation and buildup - cookie-decorating, caroling parties, "All I Want For Christmas" on the radio 24/7 - it was all just abruptly . . . over.
I'd spent four months devoting almost all of my free time to marathon training with a team of 40 other runners through the Nike Women Marathon Project. The morning after the race, with the roar of the crowds silenced, my body in revolt, and a previously packed training calendar suddenly vacant, I wondered: Now what?
Hey, Vegans! Complete-Protein Meals Under 400 Calories
If you want gorgeous, radiant locks or to heal fast from that pulled hammy after dropping into a split, then protein is a must. Every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies is made up of protein, so getting your fill is important when it comes to building and repairing your cells. Protein is made up of amino acids, 12 of which are produced by the body. The other nine, called essential amino acids, must be obtained from our diet. Complete proteins contain all nine, and since red meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy are complete proteins, those who eat meat and milk are in the clear. If you're avoiding animal products, then you'll need to eat plant-based complete proteins and combinations of foods to make up the difference.
While it isn't necessary to eat complete proteins at the same meal - you can eat beans for lunch and rice for dinner - if you're a busy vegetarian, you'll find it easier to enjoy them together. This dish of Mexican tempeh with black beans and quinoa is a perfect example of a complete protein as it contains both legumes and whole grains. Keep reading for more vegan meal ideas that contain complete proteins - all under 400 calories.
Megan Lost 90+ Pounds and Healed Her "Bad Relationship With Food" Thanks to This Program
Megan Regalado tried a lot of fitness and weight-loss programs in an attempt to lose weight, but nothing really stuck. It wasn't until she discovered Beachbody that she found a way to turn her life around and get her health on track. Read her full story below.
"I have been a marketing director for the last six years and even worked for a fitness camp," Megan told POPSUGAR. "I struggled with my weight my whole life and after college gained a lot of weight. When I was 21, I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. With PCOS, you're told that it is impossible to lose the weight. I felt doomed."
From there, Megan said she went through a "never-ending cycle of gaining weight and worsening symptoms." For a whole decade, she saw her weight go up and down on the scale. "In the last three years, I have had two children. This just made me lose more control of my body and weight," she shared. "I was starting to feel depressed and bored at home. I wasn't happy with my body or my mind."
One day while she was browsing through social media, Megan read a post from a fitness coach who posed the question of where you want to see yourself in the next five years. "I thought about my life for a minute. I thought about my three beautiful children - all of the energy they had. I thought about myself," Megan said. "I was amazed what my mind conjured: a happy, healthy, fit person. I was loving my body and loving my life. I had enough energy to chase around my kids, and I was able to support them in all of the activities they wanted to do." She knew she had to make a change.
Megan started with the 21 Day Fix from Beachbody. "I was nervous that with the size of my body, I would not be able to complete the workouts. I was worried about the cravings for food I had. I was worried with a full-time marketing job and three children, I would not have the time to be able to commit to a program," she admitted. But her coach helped her overcome all of those challenges.
Luckily, the fitness program was easy to work into her schedule. The portion-controlled food plan from 21 Day Fix helped Megan reestablish a healthy relationship with food. "I was eating more than ever and losing weight!" she said.
As for the workouts, Megan loved the 21 Day Fix workout program "because it only takes 30 minutes and the results are crazy!" Both her body and her mind felt clearer than ever. She's also used various other Beachbody programs, including Country Heat, Core De Force, P90X3, Beachbody Ultimate Reset, 3 Week Yoga Retreat, and Insanity Max: 30.
"Now I am [doing] 80 Day Obsession, and I love that I am able to do my workouts from home," Megan told POPSUGAR. "With three children, it was hard to get to the gym and work out. Now I can do my workouts from anywhere. No more drives to the gym!"
So far, Megan has lost over 90 pounds and has gone from a size 22 to a size 2. "It is so nice to not pay the price of plus-size clothes," she said. "Now, eating healthy is second nature and the workouts are part of my everyday routine. I still have struggles, but now I know the tools to help me manage my stress." Megan is most proud about the fact that this journey has been a long-term solution for her rather than a quick fix.
"My life has changed completely since I started . . . I feel better about myself. I am stronger, more confident, determined, and overall happier," Megan gushed. "I wake up with more energy for life. I have more of myself to give to the ones I love. I am fitting into clothes I haven't [worn] since college. It has just been a complete turnaround from the person I was before the program. I am now helping others to make life transformations for themselves."
The Most Effective Way to Do Plank, According to a Trainer
When you are short on time but want to fit some quality strength moves into your fitness routine, planks are an excellent option and one of the best ways to build strength and stability in your core. One of the most important things to be mindful of when performing planks is correct form, as doing the exercise incorrectly not only won't improve your strength, but it can also eventually lead to discomfort and potential injuries.
"People generally start to feel discomfort in their shoulders, which may indicate that their elbows are not directly beneath them and they have not engaged their core, leading to the shoulders taking a lot more strain then they need to," said Victoria Webster, a certified personal trainer at Suite Time Fitness in Houston. "Another thing to look out for is low back discomfort. This is a sign that your core is collapsing and your back is sagging down."
There are many variations on plank exercises, but one of the most basic is the forearm plank. Follow these steps to ensure you are performing the exercise correctly:
- Find a space in front of a mirror so you can check your form.
- Lie on your stomach, bring your elbows directly under your shoulders, and flip your toes under your feet
- Exhale and lift your body off the ground. Your body should be in one straight line with a flat back, your butt down and your core engaged.
- Actively draw your belly button up into your spine. Your hands can be grasped in a "prayer" position or parallel to each other.
- Check yourself out in the mirror and lift your midsection back into that strong, straight line you had initially
Don't get too preoccupied with how long you can hold a plank, either. "There is no reason, ever, to hold a plank for five minutes. One or two minutes are good goals to work up to; anything more than that and you'll likely begin to lose form," Webster said. "Personally, I like to do several sets of 90- to 120-second planks, alternating with a low back exercise, for balance."
Finally, don't forget to breathe. "As a trainer, I find that when people are doing exercises that are difficult, and especially if they're being timed, they hold their breath. Nice, slow, controlled breathing will help you through the exercise," Webster said.
I Practice Intermittent Fasting, and This Is What 1 Week of My Food Looks Like
When people find out I do intermittent fasting, where I only eat from noon to 7 p.m. and fast the rest of the day, and that I'm vegan, they always want to know what the heck I eat!
Although I don't eat breakfast, I eat lunch, a snack, and dinner. And just like any healthy eating plan, prepping food ahead of time is key. If I don't take a few hours each Sunday to plan out my meals, shop, wash, cut, and cook, then I'm likely to eat bowls of cereal for every single meal. I also find if I'm scrounging around for meals, I tend to overeat, so this helps keep my portions in check.
The entire process of meal prep is actually very calming for me. I love looking for new recipes on Instagram, writing out my detailed list, strolling through the grocery store aisles, and listening to music while I chop and prep. Meal prep is like self-care for me because it's the one time during the week I can devote to me, it ensures I eat healthy all week long, and it sets the tone for other healthy choices throughout the week.
Since I don't eat dairy or meat, planning ahead ensures I get my daily fill of protein, as well as healthy fats and carbs. Come with me into my kitchen, and take a peek at what I prep on Sunday afternoons so I have a week full of nutritious, delicious food for the next five days.
Ibuprofen Can Soothe Sore Muscles, but There's Actually Something Much Better to Do
You can end up with sore muscles for any number of reasons: because you worked out too hard, neglected to warm up or cool down, or just tried something your body has never done before. While you may want to lie in bed and do absolutely nothing when you're that sore, there are ways to work through it and bounce back faster - and you'll find one of them in your medicine cabinet.
Janette Nesheiwat, MD, recommended ibuprofen for sore muscles because it's an anti-inflammatory. "Most people without any allergies or underlying disease (like GERD or liver and kidney problems) can take ibuprofen," she said. However, she noted that it should always be taken with food and never for an extended period of time. (Taking the medicine for days on end can have some serious side effects.)
"The best thing to do when you have sore muscles is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, though," Dr. Nesheiwat said. While ibuprofen is a simple remedy, it's important to supplement the medicine with a lot of water and even something like an Epsom salt bath or a light massage. "But again, the best treatment is hydration," she said.
If your sore muscles persist or get worse, even with treatment, Dr. Nesheiwat recommended seeing your doctor immediately. "This is to ensure you don't have what's called rhabdo, which is severe muscle injury or breakdown that can result in kidney problems." It's also important to check with your doctor if you have any doubts about taking the ibuprofen in the first place, because starting any new medicine - even an over-the-counter one - should be cleared by your doctor.
12 Pancake Mixes That'll Help You Hit Your Daily Protein Goal in a Freaking Delicious Way
Having a diet adequate in protein is crucial for weight management (loss, gain, and maintenance). "Protein helps to repair and build muscle tissues in the body," says Jim White, RD, adding that the standard daily protein intake is approximately 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight. That means ,if you weigh 150 pounds, which is about 68 kilograms, you should eat about 54.4 grams of protein a day. Shocking, right?
So how do you go about eating that much protein? A balanced diet is important, but there are a few store-bought products that can help, including our favorite: pancake mix. We've rounded up 12 protein-packed mixes that'll keep you feeling full and power you with the energy you need to tackle the rest of your day and get your body moving.
So Long, Sad Desk Lunch: These Satisfying Dishes Are 7 SmartPoints or Less on WW
Figuring out what to bring to work or school for lunch while on WW - the program formerly known as Weight Watchers - can be tricky, and yet you don't want to get stuck ordering takeout, which is notoriously difficult to track using your points. Luckily, this list is chock-full of healthy recipes to choose from, and we've even calculated the SmartPoints values so all you have to do is whip them up, pack them up, and go. It can't possibly get much easier than that. Scroll through for 15 of our favorite work lunch options, and don't forget to stock your desk with some WW-friendly snacks.
This Cafeteria Worker's Trick to Make Students' Days Brighter Is Going Viral For the Best Reason
❤️words of inspiration from our cafeteria manager for our students... #relationshipsmatter #heartwork pic.twitter.com/dj9MyKgI4q
- Sharon Shewbridge (@DrShewbridge) October 25, 2018
For the past nine years, Stacey Truman, the cafeteria manager at Kingston Elementary School in Virginia, has been writing inspirational messages on bananas as a of making her students' day a little brighter. Recently, Dr. Sharon Shewbridge, the school's principal, captured a photo of the uplifting words and shared it on Twitter, and the concept is delightfully simple.
"I do it for my kids at home, so why not bring it here and do it for them because they are like my kids," Stacey told WTKR. She went on to explain how each student receives their inspirational fruit. "They're reading it as they come through the line," added Truman. "It may not be what they choose, you know, that just wasn't the fruit that they wanted for the day, but they were still like, 'Oh that's pretty cool.'"
As for how Stacey comes up with what to write? She just goes with whatever is top of mind. "Most of [the messages] I came up with myself because I would just think about what you would tell a kid or what you would want to hear yourself," she said.
Although we hope this idea catches on, Stacey never intended to be in the spotlight. "[Stacey]'s almost embarrassed about all the attention," said Dr. Shewbridge. "She just wanted it to be anonymous. But I said this is so simple and amazing - and it has such an impact on kids. It's simple, but these words can help them be more courageous and realize that they are good enough. I hope that other schools see it's an easy way to get a kind message to kids."
12 Cool New Watches He Doesn't Already Own but Will Totally Want
Whether you're shopping for your SO, dad, brother, grandpa, or another man in your life this holiday season, you can't go wrong giving them a cool new watch. From durable sporty choices to classics that will never go out of style, we curated a list of the hottest picks of the year to make your shopping life easier. Keep scrolling to see which one is perfect for the guy in your life.
"Fall" in Love With These Cozy Autumn Pregnancy Announcement Ideas
Whether you're announcing that you're pregnant in the Fall or are planning on welcoming a baby during the season, there are so many ways to share your joy with friends and family. From photos with foliage backdrops and a million and one uses for pumpkins (seriously, so many pumpkins), we've rounded up some of the cutest and most creative ways to announce your pregnancy in Autumn.
The Best Gifts For Kids Under 10 Years Old in 2018
It's been a whirlwind of a year, but we're now ready to kick off the holidays! If you've got a little one on your list but don't know where to begin, don't fret! We've got you covered with age-specific gift ideas from birth through 9 years old, including some of the trendiest toys of the year.
Click through for the perfect picks for all the kiddos in your life!
- Gifts For Infants
- Gifts For 1-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 2-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 3-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 4-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 5-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 6-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 7-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 8-Year-Olds
- Gifts For 9-Year-Olds
My Kids Write Thanksgiving Thank-You Cards Every Year, and I Can't Recommend It Enough
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days. Since we live in a world where it's so easy to get consumed in our own lives and material things, I like the fact that we have a holiday that isn't about gift-giving. Instead, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and reflect on all the blessings in our lives. That's why in my house, we've made it a family tradition to send Thanksgiving thank-you cards.
When I was a child, my father started our Thanksgiving dinners by giving each person at the table a few minutes to talk about what they were thankful for that year. That tradition has transformed a bit with my own kids. We have a "day of gratitude" during the Thanksgiving season, and last year, my kids started sending thank-you cards to a few people in their lives who bring value to them in some way.
Related: We Go Out to Dinner For Thanksgiving Because I Just Can't
Last year, our son sent out a picture and note to five people he loves. He included what he wished for them, what he loves most about them, and why they make him happy.
We actually got the idea from one of my son's TinySuperheroes missions, which is a nonprofit organization that created an online community for kids fighting an illness or overcoming a disability. When these kids sign up, they're given a custom superhero cape and officially become part of the squad. The squad empowers its superheroes by recognizing the extraordinary qualities that make them unique. Each month, they participate in a mission to spread awareness through activities focused on their amazing qualities, like bravery, strength, hope, and joy. Last year, one of the missions in the Thanksgiving season had our son sending out a picture and note to five people he loves. He included what he wished for them, what he loves most about them, and why they make him happy.
I knew right away that this would become a holiday tradition for our family. We want our kids to be thankful for what they have, even the small things. And in the midst of all the chaos and stress of life, it's easy to overlook the innumerable blessings we all have. Sending thank-you notes is mutually beneficial. It's a simple gesture that allows our kids to reflect on what's really important in life, and it can make a huge difference to the person on the receiving end of the note.
Related: 27 Restaurants That Will Be Open on Thanksgiving Day
Our son especially loves it, and his notes vary every year. Last year, he sent a note to one of his uncles, thanking him for always making him laugh; he sent a note to a local musician, thanking him for playing good music and giving him guitar picks; he sent a note to his sister, thanking her for being a good sister; and he sent a note to his doctor, thanking him for taking good care of him and helping him when he was sick. It was heartwarming as a parent to see how the little things people do on a daily basis bring memorable joy to our little kids' lives.
If you haven't had your kids send thank-you cards to a few people during the Thanksgiving season, I encourage you to do so. It's rewarding in so many ways. And our kids get extremely excited about surprising the people they love.
There Are Now Mary Poppins Barbie Dolls That Look JUST Like Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda
As if we needed another reason to get wildly excited for Mary Poppins Returns to hit theaters in December, Mattel went ahead and added fuel to our delight by releasing adorable Barbie dolls that pay tribute to the movie. On Nov. 1, the beloved toy company dropped both Mary Poppins and Jack the Lamplighter Barbie dolls that look like the actors who play the characters, Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, respectively.
Whereas some movie-inspired dolls look nothing like the intended character (see: that Beauty and the Beast doll that was supposed to look like Emma Watson as Belle but actually wound up garnering Justin Bieber comparisons), these toys are pretty darn spot-on with their likeness. The Mary Poppins doll is dressed in a teeny-tiny version of that iconic striped dress with tiered sleeves, along with red shoes and a hat with bird-like detailing on one side. Oh, she's also carrying a magic carpet bag, of course! Meanwhile, Jack the Lamplighter is suited up in a gray jacket, red vest, gray cap, and brown striped pants, and he's carrying a lamplighting stick.
The Mary Poppins Returns dolls cost $40 each and are not-so-surprisingly already on back-order, thanks to the widespread appeal of the Disney franchise. Check out the lifelike toys below, and place your order now to secure 'em for you and/or your kids!
Get Comfortable: We Found 53 Perfect Presents For Every Woman in Your Life
Put that mug of hot chocolate down! It's time to get to the real business of the holidays: Christmas shopping. We know it can be hard to find presents for the women in your life, so that's why we created the ultimate gift guide for you to browse through. These items are excellent for mothers, grandmothers, sisters, BFFs, friends, and any other gal you know. Whether she's a fashion girl, couch potato, techie, or makeup maven, we have something she'll be thrilled to receive. You don't even have to get out of your pajamas to look through these goodies; they're all available to purchase online. Let's get going!
Parents, Forget That Damn Elf and Give Yourself the Gift of Shiraz on the Shelf This Holiday Season
Back in the Summer of 2016, Dena Blizzard of One Funny Mother made every single parent pee their pants with her video spoofing the then-viral game Pokémon Go with her own creation, Chardonnay Go (now an actual board game). Last year before school started, she had every mom and dad nodding their heads profusely as she wandered the aisles of Target talking about school supplies. This year, folks, the mom has absolutely outdone herself with the creation of "Shiraz on the Shelf," an adults-only alternative to Elf on the Shelf - and yes, it's completely real.
The "tongue-in-cheek parody of the holiday season's much loved/hated elf" comes as a gift set that includes a large wine glass and hilariously illustrated booklet telling the story of the Shiraz on the Shelf, aka "the tale of a magical fairy filling the glass each night" for parents who need to indulge in a little self-care during the holiday season.
"Shiraz on the Shelf is an ideal gift for everyone on your list, but especially the harried, under-appreciated moms out there who might need a little help to survive the holidays. Wine not included, but highly encouraged," reads a press release for the hysterical product. However, Shiraz on the Shelf - which will retail for $30 - comes with a disclaimer: "Shiraz on the Shelf will NOT help wrap presents, bake cookies, or make your family nicer. It WILL give you something to look forward to after a long night of doing EVERYTHING, while your family does NOTHING and expects presents on Christmas morning."
Still sounds more than worth it to me! Check out the video above to learn more about the product, and visit Dena's store to purchase the gift set and get your Shiraz on.
12 Perfect Gifts For Your Mom Friends, Because They’re Tired as F*ck and Deserve Something Good!
Whether you're a mama to a little baby or a curious toddler, chances are you've developed some critical friendships with other moms. And these aren't just your run-of-the-mill friendships; these are cherished bonds that get you through the good days and the bad. These are women who are there for you, responding to late-night texts about why your 10-month-old won't sleep, or are on your doorstep with a bottle of wine when you need it. Show your mom friends how much you value them this year by picking them up a gift. We have 12 options that they'll love!
Is This Magic? 14 Cool Harry Potter Gifts - All on Amazon For Under $22!
Potterheads, there's no reason to go hunting for the perfect gifts. We have plenty of magical options, all in one place! If you love Harry Potter as much as we do, you'll be thrilled by all of the cool products available on Amazon. We were shocked by the massive array of choices. Take a look at our favorite picks, and then wrap them up for friends or family.
The Family Movies Coming Out in 2019 That Are Already Pumping Us Up For the New Year
Is there anything more exciting than waiting for a new movie you and your kids are excited about to hit theaters? We think not! Already, 2019's lineup is making us wiggle with excitement and mark our calendars because, seriously y'all, the release schedule is STACKED.
From live-action Disney reboots to much-anticipated sequels to beloved franchises (looking at you, Toy Story), there is already so much heat packed into the year (not to mention everything that's yet to have been announced!). Check out what we know about the 2019's releases ahead, and bookmark this page to keep up with all the new announcements and trailers.
From Paw Patrol to Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit, Here’s Everything on Sale This Week
Parents are eagerly waiting until Black Friday to get the deepest discounts on toys and baby gear, which is smart, because that's routinely when big retailers roll out some impressive deals. But you don't have to wait until the end of the month to do all of your shopping. From the limited-edition Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit to must-have new baby essentials, here are 11 items that are all on sale this week.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Skincare Gifts You Can Give This Year
Everyone has that one friend who's so particular about skin care, they may as well be Kevin McCallister picking out dental products - only their version of the "Is this toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association?" question tends to happen at Sephora.
Rather than leaving them to fend for themselves this holiday season, though, like poor Kev's parents did in Home Alone, why not give them a beauty gift that lives up to the highest of skincare standards . . . without any of the guesswork? From fancy face mask sets to jade rollers galore, ahead we've compiled a comprehensive guide to every skincare product an obsessive would want.
Happy shopping, ya filthy animal.
Here's What We REALLY Think About the New Huda Beauty New Nude Palette
The team behind Huda Beauty have become experts at keeping every new launch shrouded in mystery while creating mass-makeup hysteria. When founder Huda Kattan gave us a supersecret sneak peek of the "game-changing" palette, fans wondered what exactly the shades would look like. Then, the new eye shadow palette finally arrived at my desk, and I couldn't wait to test out the shimmer- and glitter-packed formulas.
While the color scheme of the collection, which includes warm berry tones and brown hues, is pretty standard for this year - the cherry eye trend has been spotted on celebrities and makeup shelves alike - what's truly special about this palette are the four multireflective pearl shadows that appear marbleized in the pan. When you swipe these shades across your eyes, they catch the light differently as you move, giving off a multidimensional effect. There's also one pressed pearl shade in the palette, called Kinky, which has a slightly metallic finish.
The majority of the shades in the palette, however, are matte and vary in pigment payoff. Because some of the shades looked chalky on my skin, I'd recommend applying your eye shadow before the rest of your makeup so you can layer on the hues and clean up any fallout afterward. Lastly, the collection includes two pressed glitter options that can be layered on top of the other shadows. I recommend using a strong glitter primer if you want to wear these shades so they don't end up all over your cheeks. (The brand also included a cream base formula in the palette, likely for this purpose, which is super convenient for packing but didn't seem to apply as smoothly to my lids as I would have liked.)
Overall, if you're interested in getting in on the cherry eye shadow trend and are a huge fan of Kattan's, the Huda Beauty New Nude Palette is worth the $65 investment for the one-of-a-kind multireflective pearl shades alone. Keep reading to see the swatches.
Lip Smacker Dropped an Advent Calendar That's Totally Taking Us Back to the '90s
Relive that childhood memory of opening up a birthday party goodie bag to find your favorite fruity lip balm with Lip Smacker's latest holiday treat. The iconic '90s brand is bringing us a gingerbread-house-shaped Advent calendar this year, packed with the season's most beloved scents.
Within the 12 days of gifts, you'll receive five tubes of balm decorated in Christmas-sweater-inspired packaging. You'll also find seven tubs of Lip Shine; the small jars of shimmery gloss will take you back to your first experiences playing with makeup. Check out the photos of the calendar ahead, and be sure to shop the Lip Smacker 12 Days of Kiss-mas Advent Calendar exclusively at Target.
This Tinted Moisturizer Stick Has Eliminated My Need For Foundation
I've never really liked wearing foundation. As a person who lives with eczema, foundations and other heavy bases tend to emphasize the rough textures and dry patches on my skin, making them more apparent than if I were to not wear anything at all. On top of that, most of the foundations that I tried dried out my skin even more, making it difficult to wear them for long periods of time. For the longest time, I genuinely thought that I would never be able to comfortably wear a full face of makeup.
I played around with tinted moisturizers for awhile, and though I loved the dewy, moisturizing effect they left on my skin, I found myself wishing that the application could be easier - liquids were always messy and required so much blending, so I felt like I took way too long to get ready, and I knew that I couldn't touch up throughout the day. But when Nudestix invented their Tinted Blur Stick ($30), my life was completely changed. Gone were the days of messy, liquidy, tinted moisturizers that required excessive blending: the Tinted Blur Stick easily swipes on and can be blended out with my fingers. The product also has buildable coverage that doesn't cake up over time, and comes in a sleek tube that makes it perfect for on-the-go application.
Since I started wearing the Tinted Blur Stick, I feel like I've used significantly fewer products (and in smaller dosages); this is the one product that really does it all for my skin. It not only evens out my skin tone, but also further moisturizes it throughout the day. It never emphasizes my dry spots, but does a good job of covering them up if I need it to. It also has a glossy finish that gives me that #IWokeUpLikeThis glow, but still makes me look completely natural (though I can build up the intensity to a medium coverage if I need it to). And best of all, it doesn't wash me out or require me to use a ton of products on top of it to make it look like my face is finished; I can swipe on a layer of this stick and walk straight out the door.
The stick comes in 10 shades - it might sound like a small range, but they really only need 10. Because the stick isn't a full-coverage foundation, it's easy for various skin tones to find a match in the same shade. The blur stick features shade-adjusting pigments that customize based on your skin's undertone as you blend it out. I also use lighter and darker shades to highlight and contour my face. (Bonus points because the product layers so nicely on itself!)
Honestly, after trying the Tinted Blur Stick, I don't think I'll ever go back to wearing foundation. Who needs it when you've got the perfect all-in-one product that can fit in your pocket?
Check Everyone Off Your List With These 48 Holiday Beauty Sets
Gift giving is so much easier with holiday sets. Since most come packed with multiple beauty products, you'll get to try so many different formulas or break them up to divide among everyone on your list. Plus, they often come in the cutest packaging. From holiday candles to the prettiest eye shadow palettes, these are the best beauty sets of 2018. Happy shopping.
This Gorgeous Gryffindor vs. Slytherin Wedding Shoot Would Make Dumbledore Proud
We all remember those iconic Gryffindor vs. Slytherin quidditch matches with wizards flying at high speeds and the large crowd cheering around them. Well, photographer Kevin Lane did an amazing job capturing that competitive spirit between the Hogwarts houses in this styled Gryffindor vs. Slytherin wedding shoot. These stunning photos were taken at the Wright House in Mesa, AZ, which adds a rustic country charm to the photos.
The most prominent reference to the Harry Potter saga in these photos would be the contrasting color palettes for each couple. "In this stylized shoot you can see the darker side of a Slytherin wedding, which included a beautiful black geode wedding cake and a black and gold ruffled wedding dress. In the Gryffindor wedding, we used their house colors, which are scarlet and gold. The wedding cake included both of these colors as well as the emblematic animal, the lion," said Kevin. There are many more Harry Potter references embedded in this shoot, for instance the Slytherin wand is modeled after the one Voldemort used, while the Gryffindor wand is modeled after the Elder Wand, which was used by Dumbledore for a majority of the franchise. The sorting hat also makes a small appearance in these photos and surprisingly matches very well with a white wedding dress.
Browse through these pictures, and look out for more hidden details in this gorgeous Harry Potter wedding!
Wait, These White Elephant Gifts Are All Under $10? BRB - I'm Buying 2 of Each
White elephant gifts should be quirky, funny, and most definitely cost-efficient. Since this kind of gift-giving is more about fun over function, it only makes sense to spend your money sparingly.
Check out this list of white elephant gifts that are all under 10 bucks! Save your money for the big gifts, but we will warn you: you might want to buy multiple of these gifts because they are so ridiculously awesome.
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