Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
dimanche 11 novembre 2018
How 1 Transgender Military Veteran Stays Hopeful, Even on the Darkest Days
Image Source: Getty / Kimberly White
When Laila Villanueva began serving in the US Army in late 2003, she had not yet come out as a transgender person. "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" was in full effect. In order to serve, she'd have to hide her truth. The decision to join the military came from a long tradition of service in her family; her father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all had done the same. "It was a no-brainer for me growing up," she told POPSUGAR over the phone in late October. "I had kind of suppressed the desire to express myself as effeminate, as a woman. I made that sacrifice because I wanted to be part of this legacy."
Villanueva, now Ireland (she married Senior Airman Logan Ireland in 2016), went on to serve in the Army for 12 years before medically retiring in 2015. In that time, she was able to witness the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" - she does note, though, that the repeal only really applied to sexuality and not gender identity. She also made a life-changing decision: to come out, to own her identity, and to participate in a revolutionary documentary that could put her entire career, her family, and her life at risk.
In 2012, codirectors Gabriel Silverman and Fiona Dawson began to chronicle the lives of four transgender military service members. TransMilitary focuses on those who, in addition to risking their lives for our country, must fight for the right to serve openly with their authentic gender identity. Both Villanueva and Logan Ireland are featured subjects, along with Captain Jennifer Peace and First Lieutenant El Cook. The documentary will air on Logo TV on Thursday, Nov. 15, at 8 p.m. Watch the full trailer for TransMilitary below, then join us as we discuss why the timing couldn't be more perfect.
POPSUGAR: I'm curious about your own journey. Were you able to find your footing OK as a transgender soldier? Were you able to foster respect among your peers?
Laila Ireland: I endured going to basic training and being among all males and doing part of that journey. But once I got out of basic training and schooling for my particular job, I found camaraderie among other service members. What I learned about being in the military was that every person that was on the team that I was part of came from a different background. They came from different cultures, they came from different lifestyles, and everyone celebrated those differences. We brought something different to the table, and that's what made up our team and that's what makes us successful is that we were all different, very unique.
Part of doing this film and being a part of this movement was that it was an understanding that no one else is going to step up to talk about these things. So I made a sacrifice, understanding that if no one else is going to do it, who is? And I was willing to sacrifice my career, my livelihood with my family, everything that I had built up for in my service. I was willing to sacrifice that for people like me who will come after me, to be able to serve openly, to have a smooth process being in the military, and just having the same camaraderie and family.
"We just want people to see that we are people too. We have jobs. We go and do them every day, just like anyone else. We're very regular. We just want to be like everyone else."
PS: That's so incredible.
LI: Thank you. Fiona Dawson and Gabriel Silverman and Jamie Coughlin were able to capture the moments that really made sense to people in general. And what you'll find in this documentary is that it's really relatable. We try not to talk about politics. We just want people to see that we are people too. We have jobs. We go and do them every day, just like anyone else. We're very regular. We just want to be like everyone else. We have families who have the fears of their children growing up and what they're going to turn out to be and what they're going to do with their lives. This is a film that really highlights those things.
I feel like I can speak on behalf of the rest of the cast members in the film. Our families are very supportive. We are very lucky to have that. Not everyone in the LGBT community is afforded that same opportunity, the same support, during a transition or during just the journey of coming out. And so we're very fortunate.
PS: Well, first of all, thank you for your bravery in serving in the military and for your bravery in putting yourself out there for this project. When you started this project, I'm sure you couldn't have imagined how things would be in 2018, right? I'm curious how it feels to kind of be able to put this project forward in such a divided time and such a scary time.
LI: Thank you for asking that question. I think it's important to remember, even though TransMilitary talks specifically about transgender people in the military, this is not about the transgender movement. It's about just humanity in general. And like you said, we live in a very troubling, very scary time, but when I go out and talk to audiences, I always talk about living of different intersectionalities of my life. Being a person of color, being a transwoman, being a veteran, being [an] Asian-American Pacific Islander, being Hispanic. Just all these things.
The film's premiere on television is extremely important and couldn't come at a better time. We are at the forefront of this fight for equality, for the right to exist. And by sharing our stories and our struggles and obstacles and being visible, not only are we writing history, but we're creating it to be shared in the future by our future. I believe in and have fought for an America that was built on diversity, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless who they love, how they identify, and how they pray. It is important that we tell our stories, that we impart the language of the forces, that we represent and uplift. This is the reality that we choose, and we want to show the world that these actions truly have a larger impact for our success as people - every step, every word, every action.
PS: I think the general attitude is that this sort of oppression and attack on rights and attack on bodies, it's been happening for a long time. It's only just now that the general public is aware of it, right? Even though there are still atrocities happening every day, are you glad that at least it's becoming a national conversation?
LI: Absolutely. If you really look at it, we haven't really moved that far forward from African-Americans having equal rights. We haven't really moved really much forward from women having equal rights. It just seems like we're moving backwards. It baffles me. It's so crazy that we're still living in this time and we're still fighting for it. But again, this big thing now is we've awoken a sleeping giant . . . the conversation that has always been there. But now they are seeing like, "OK, they're really coming. Now what do we do?" Yes, it's scary, but wake up, people. It's happening. The time is now.
PS: What do you do on the days when you feel like it's kind of an unwinnable battle?
LI: Those days have come so often that oftentimes I have to just go home, sit back, and let everything sink in and see what my next move is going to be. I'm only one person, and if I can inspire other people . . . I'm doing the work, right?
In short, I guess, sometimes it is really tough. It's been overwhelmingly crazy. To kind of just sit back and look at everything and say, "Am I doing enough?" But I'm absolutely reassured by the people that I speak with or just by telling my story. The response that I get over social media or just in general in person - people that I never thought would otherwise even think about wanting to care about such a subject are reaching out and saying, "I'm so sorry."
People that I never have spoken to or have never met in my life have reached out on social media to say, "Hey, I'm checking on you. How are you? How are you doing? Is everything OK? I saw what happened in the news. This is a thing, and I'm sorry that this is happening." These are people that I have never met. So it just reassures me that what I'm doing is good, and it keeps me motivated, and it keeps me driven.
PS: Sounds like, on the darkest days, you just look for the light spots wherever you can.
LI: I do. Yeah. You just have to.
PS: Do you think that we'll ever be able to change the minds of the people who we perceive to be against us, on the opposite side of us?
LI: I truly believe that we are doing that. We are changing hearts and minds. What we see that is portrayed in the media is often people having reactionary participation in and influenced by what's going on on social media, right? But the majority of people are understanding. They are loving . . . I don't think it's something that we are wasting our time on. We have to be visible in order for change to happen. We have to create the world that we want to see and be in. [My husband, Logan Ireland,] and I want to raise a family, and we didn't want our kids to come into this world how it is now. We want them to be able to be free and express themselves the way that they want without having any consequence to it. We just want them to be able to just be and be happy, and so we have to continue the work.
PS: What can we do today to make a better tomorrow?
That's the question, right? What can we do? If we just live in the community, I think we have learned everything that we need to know when we were in kindergarten. Be nice to others, treat others how you want to be treated, share your things, right? These are fundamental things that we learn in kindergarten. But when it comes to such movements in this current climate, I think the best thing to do is speak up when something is wrong, obviously within reason. We want people to be safe. We want people to be able to react in such a way that helps other people without harming them even more.
It's sitting and listening to people tell their stories, and to hear the other side. It's easy to react and respond when emotions and opinions are heated. It really is just easy, but it's even harder to sit there and really try to understand someone, whether you agree with them or not. I think it's important to really understand people for who they are. And love them as you would love your brother or your mother or your father, even love them as your own. And when time calls for people to react as a whole, as a society, definitely choose to be on the right side of history. We don't want to go backwards because what happens when we go backwards is that we have to do even more work.
I think the generation now is just leading us to the front. These young kids are leading us to the front of what needs to be the next evolution. And I'm happy to be a part of that. I really am.
50+ Target Finds Under 50 Bucks For Your Boyfriend - He's Gonna Love 'Em
So, what exactly do you get your boyfriend for the holidays without looking like you tried too hard, overthought it for months, or called his mother on the phone last week and asked what he wanted? Yeah, it's a question we have all asked ourselves at one point or another.
To keep your relationship casual, cool, and right where you want it this holiday season, get your guy some of these fun and thoughtful gifts from Target. Shop our picks for the best boyfriend gifts ahead!
Related: 150+ Presents You Can Get For Everyone on Your List - All From Target!
Attention, Snow Shredders: Hit the Slopes at the Top Ski Destinations Trending This Winter
Bring on the twinkling lights, festive music, and just about anything pumpkin flavored. The arrival of the holiday season usually delivers frosty temperatures along with it, and you know what that means, adventure-seeking travelers. It's nearly time to bust out the ski gear and hit the slopes! To help you decide which mountain to conquer this Winter season, we're bringing you the top trending ski destinations for the 2018 holiday season and into the new year, according to data from travel search engine Kayak. Fresh powder, here we come!
Score Major Points With 21 Gifts For Meeting the Family
When you're meeting your significant other's family for the first time over the holidays, the pressure can be on to bring something memorable - in a good way. So if you find yourself in that boat, we've got some gift ideas to make a great first impression and keep the meet-up stress free. Check them out now!
5 Ways the Mixed-Bag Midterms Represented Real Change
The midterm elections on Tuesday, Nov. 6, were nothing short of historic. We saw Democrats reclaim control of the House for the first time in eight years, and several candidates across the country delivered historic wins for diverse representation. From the first Native American women - including the first LGBTQ+ Native American woman - elected to the House, to the youngest women ever elected to Congress, to the first openly gay US governor, the midterm elections reflected key progress for inclusivity. For the first time ever, more than 100 women have been elected to Congress, and that number could very well go up; as of the morning of Nov. 7, races are still being decided.
These victories amount to a Congress that looks more like our increasingly diverse nation. When white men comprise just 32 percent of the US population, there's no reason for them to hold 65 percent of all elected offices, and because of last night, we're closer to achieving parity. As a result of the historic victories of women and diverse candidates, powered in no uncertain terms by an influx of female volunteers and grassroots donors, we can be certain to see change.
That's because there are concrete, documented differences between female legislators and their male counterparts, from the issues they're more likely to work on to their levels of productivity. Female legislators on average introduce and pass nearly double the number of bills of male legislators, while primarily focusing on key, too-often-neglected domestic issues like health care, education, and civil rights. Frankly, female legislators' ability as candidates to overcome all the sexist barriers and hurdles that male candidates don't face lead to many female legislators being more skilled and tenacious in general. In a country where white male Republicans have been responsible for an estimated 75 percent of antichoice legislation in state legislatures, the election of more - and Democratic - women could be pivotal to protecting key women's rights, in an era fraught with uncertainty from the Supreme Court composition.
Here are some of the most impactful wins for diversity and American women from the midterm elections.
16 Gifts For People (Seriously) Obsessed With Pizza
Pizza is a way of life. That's not an opinion - it's a fact. If you know a girl whose heart is made of gold and stomach is filled with pizza, we've found the perfect gifts for her. Keep reading to see our 16 favorite pizza-themed gifts in all of their triangular splendor.
Related: 33 White Elephant Gifts Your Friends Will Actually Love
9 Unique Fall Festivals Around the World
Fall may be about harvests and pumpkin spice everything, but there's a whole lot more going on that is worth checking out. There are also festivals around the world that you should add to your bucket list. Some of them are in far-reaching corners of the globe, so they may just be an excuse to plan a trip!
What It's Like to Live in a Hurricane's Destruction After the World Stops Caring
Hurricanes are nothing new to the Florida Panhandle. A lot of people around Panama City, where I live, consider hurricane season a fifth season that falls somewhere in between Summer and Fall. When the news stations go haywire, we throw hurricane parties and stock up on booze and snacks. We roll our eyes and snicker because we know that we'll get a few days off from work and have some extra bonding time with our friends. Worst-case scenario, we lose power for a day or two and see a few street signs blown down.
With the exception of Hurricane Opal in 1995, Bay County's track record has been good for so long that I often wondered when our lucky streak would finally end. I never could have imagined that when it did, it would be this detrimental.
If I were to make a guess, I'd say that 90 percent of all Bay County residents did not evacuate for Hurricane Michael. That's close to 170,000 people who endured winds peaking at 155 MPH.
In less than 20 hours, the storm went from cautionary to life altering.
Judging from afar, people will probably question our decision to stay. They might even go as far as to say it's our own fault. But what most people don't realize is that our City Center was not ordered to evacuate. Only the areas in threat of storm surge were - primarily our beach and anyone living in mobile homes. The irony is that most of our beach residents evacuated inland to Panama City, and Panama City was demolished.
Also, keep in mind that Hurricane Michael underwent major changes between 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, and 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct 10, and was upgraded from a category 2 to a category 4 storm. By the time it made landfall about 12:30 p.m., it was one notch away from being a category 5. In less than 20 hours, the storm went from cautionary to life altering. It changed so quickly that it was too late for people to get out. The hurricane's force was compared to a massive EF3 tornado (the third most devastating tornado). In terms of pressure, Hurricane Michael is the third most intense hurricane to hit the mainland United States, after Hurricane Camille in 1969 and an unnamed Labor Day hurricane in 1935.
In Panama City, we were fighting to survive while the rest of the world was back to business as usual.
My neighborhood was hit hard, just as hard as my mother-in-law's, my parents', my best friend's, my third grade teacher's. There wasn't an area of our city that wasn't heavily impacted. My family (four adults, one 4-year-old child, and two dogs) rode out the storm in my 1,400-square-foot home. It was terrifying, to say the least. Trees crashed around us, the walls shook with fury, and the wind whistled in our ears like a freight train. If we lost our roof, we devised a plan to sit in my car, which was parked under my carport. It wasn't much of a plan, but it was all we had. We got lucky and didn't lose our roof.
I later discovered that my friend, who lives one street over, did. She, her husband, their 5-year-old, and their 18-month-old huddled in their car during the worst part of the storm after their roof had collapsed. Another friend of mine lost her roof along with the safety of her car. She had no choice but to run outside, into flying debris, falling trees, and monstrous winds, to take cover at their neighbors' across the street. My friend Christy and her husband were trapped inside their home for three days after the storm with their 2-month-old and their toddler. By the time they were rescued, they were down to one bottle of water and no ice. The horror stories are endless.
Overnight, our town was transformed into a weather-beaten war zone. The first week of living in post-Michael conditions felt like living in apocalyptic times. I expected zombies to appear at any moment.
Overnight, our town was transformed into a weather-beaten war zone.
We had no running water, meaning we couldn't flush the toilets. We couldn't wash our hands, either; we had to ration the bottled water we had left for other things - like drinking. After the storm, we moved to my parents' house, where there is a pool. We often rinsed our hands in the black, murky, possibly snake-infested pool water, and then we used hand sanitizer to kill the germs. We obviously had no power, and no power means no air conditioning in 100-degree Florida weather. It also meant no street lights, no home lights, no refrigerators, and no way to charge our cell phones. Not that cell phones were of much use: more than 60 percent of all Bay County residents were left with zero wireless service. We had no way of contacting one another to see who was OK and instead drove around looking for loved ones. But driving around was dangerous, and there was no gas to refill the tank, so we couldn't drive far. If you were lucky enough to have a generator, you didn't have enough gas to run the thing. There was zero access to health care: our hospitals and clinics were demolished, and nurses and doctors were trapped inside their own homes.
But perhaps the scariest part of living in a city that is smashed to hell is the looters. A high percentage of homes were highly exposed to looters because they had no roofs and broken windows. There weren't enough authorities to guard every single street, so individuals had to take matters into their own hands, posting signs like "You loot, I shoot" or "weapon strong." One woman had her purse stolen right from her hands when looters trespassed into her home. So many cars were smashed by trees that people were forced to walk around instead of drive, adding to their vulnerability.
For every five people I know, four have lost their homes.
My husband, my son, and I stuck it out for a week, but we finally decided that we'd had enough. We also needed to get my son to a doctor. The day of the storm, he'd developed a nasty cough that was quickly getting worse. We drove five hours to Jacksonville to get him some medicine and to stay with some friends, hoping to return when things calmed down. Driving out of the wreckage and back into society felt perplexing. One-hundred miles up the road, they had cell service, flushing toilets, functioning restaurants, and gas. In Panama City, we were fighting to survive, while the rest of the world was back to business as usual. We tried to enjoy our time away, but we started to feel like we'd deserted our home. So on day six, we made our way back.
Upon our return, I'm not sure what I expected to see, but somehow leaving the mess and then returning made the reality of the situation truly sink in. Tears trickled down my face as we drove back onto the once-familiar streets that were now unrecognizable. Massive 100-year-old oak trees that once provided so many homes and parks with natural shade were blown to smithereens, their extensive six-foot-wide roots lifted from the earth, disintegrating entire yards. The 50- to 80-foot pine trees that populated every street and every yard were snapped in half, piled into colossal mounds that were so high, they blocked entire homes. Almost every roof carried a new shade of blue: tarps were their only barrier to block any potential rain.
It's been 29 days since Hurricane Michael, and our city is still in shambles. We are eternally grateful to all the linemen who came from all over the country. They restored our power in record time, and because of them, we are able to begin to put the pieces back together. As of now, 98 percent of our county has power and water, but the restoration of power doesn't mean our thriving community has been restored. We have some businesses reopening, but the ratio of open to closed is 1:10. A few grocery stores made it through, but the restaurants are few and far between. Our hospitals are only partially opened, and a massive amount of our clinics were wiped out. Countless doctors, lawyers, and teachers are twiddling their thumbs because they have no place to work. For every five people I know, four have lost their homes. They're either staying with family or have relocated to neighboring counties. Many of our schools are still being used as shelters, because there is no place for the homeless to go. When I use the word "homeless," I'm referring to the people who recently became homeless because of the hurricane.
But I am happy to say that aside from all the destruction, there is a light that shines bright. The old saying applies that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. I've never felt so proud to be a Bay County resident. We have pulled ourselves out of the rubble and, somehow, through all of the mess, managed to hold our heads high. Our community has become a team, and everyone is adopting terms like #850strong and #wewillrebuild. Because we know that Hurricane Michael is not the end of Bay County, it's a new beginning.
It's Time to Give Thanks For These 16 Sexy Romances Out in November
It's the month to be thankful for family, happiness, and anything that makes our lives a little better - though, let's be honest: we're thankful for those things every day, right? But after we've finished giving thanks for the important things in life, I'd like to give a lot of thanks for these amazing must reads that are coming to our e-readers this month. I've compiled a whole list of sexy cowboys, dashing and domineering millionaires, and straight-up swoon-worthy men that we should all take a minute to be eternally grateful for - I hope you enjoy!
This Festive Game-of-Thrones-Themed Wedding Is a Medieval Fantasy Come to Life
Winter is coming . . . but so is wedding season, and this beautiful couple decided to celebrate their union Game of Thrones-style! You read that right: Claire and Chris tied the knot on the historic grounds of Thornewood Castle in Lakewood, WA, and their ceremony was filled with details from the iconic series amid a festive Christmas backdrop.
"Chris and Claire actually traveled down from Canada to celebrate in one of Washington's few celebrated castles," said photographer Jason Comerford. "They had their hearts set on a very authentic medieval-themed wedding due to their love of the Game of Thrones series. Their day was full of custom, handmade details, including their bridal party's beautiful outfits!"
If you take a close look at the pictures, the venue looks similar to the Red Keep, all decked out in holiday decor. Another fun detail is that Claire opted for a rustic metallic lantern with an elegant arrangement of pinkish-purple flowers instead of a traditional bouquet. Chris looked like 16th century royalty in a blue and gold jacket with ruffled sleeves. The ceremony was stunning; a string quartet played when Claire walked down the aisle, and later on, the couple drank from a chalice during their nuptials.
Check out the amazing pictures from the wedding!
10 New Fall Novels About Badass Women That Also Happen to Be Written by Badass Women
There's nothing better than reading a novel about a badass woman who takes control and shows those in her life just how brave she really is. If you're a fan of female characters who take the world by storm, these 10 new fiction picks of Fall will have you believing that women really are the future.
The Olsen Twins' Outfits May Be Simple, but Their Shoes Are Anything But
The Olsen twins made a rare red carpet appearance on Wednesday night when they attended the WSJ Magazine 2018 Innovator Awards in NYC. As ever, the twins opted for a pared-down look, in perfectly coordinated black and white outfits. Mary-Kate wore a long charcoal-hued coat over dress pants, while Ashley sported Winter white in an oversize sweater and maxi skirt. However, while their outfits were simple, their shoe choices were not.
Mary-Kate, who's no stranger to statement shoes, added a pop of color to her menswear-inspired ensemble by finishing her look with one of the season's hottest footwear trends: snakeskin boots. Hers were bright red with contrasting black heels. Ashley, meanwhile, picked a more traditional pump, but she gave it a chic twist with sheer mesh panels that gave the impression of a D'Orsay style without the actual need for cutaways. Take a closer look at their shoe choices ahead, then shop similar styles.
9 Ways to Get In on the Sock Boot Trend - and Where to Buy Them
You're probably familiar with the sock boot trend, especially with supermodels like Gigi Hadid rocking them on the regular - her favorites happen to be Stuart Weitzman's Clinger boots, and she's actually the brand ambassador. Fast fashion retailers like Zara have also offered up plenty of affordable variations of the stylish boot. If you're wondering how to style the boot, we've gathered a little outfit inspiration from street style stars. Read on to see how to wear the boots, and shop some of our favorite selects ahead.
Emma Thompson Wore Sneakers to Buckingham Palace, Because There Is Nothin' Like a Dame
For most recipients of the prestigious damehood, a trip to Buckingham Palace for the investiture ceremony is an opportunity to dress up, complete with hat and high heels. But Emma Thompson has never been one to follow the rules, especially when they're unspoken!
When she arrived at the palace to receive her medal from Prince William on Wednesday, the actress and campaigner made a statement in a pantsuit and sneakers, finished off with a prominently placed badge from the Fawcett Society, which champions gender equality, women's rights, and equal pay. The sporty footwear choice should come as no surprise, as heels have always been a bugbear for Emma: she famously took off her Louboutins and threw them away at the Golden Globes in 2014, and she wore flats to the SAG Awards a few weeks later. This time around, she came prepared, and we think she's rocking this smart-casual look. Keep reading to see more photos.
Priyanka Chopra's Sexiest Shoes Will Probably Make Even Nick Jonas Sweat
In case you haven't noticed, Priyanka Chopra's shoe collection is amazing. The actress has a way of choosing the sexiest shoes to go with her outfits. Whether she's wearing a pair of white buckled sandals on a date night with Nick Jonas or she's attending an event in a bustier minidress and PVC heels, the actress has no shortage of amazing shoes. She even wore a sleek pair of nude heels to go with her feathered bridal shower dress! Want to see what we're talking about? Keep reading to take a look at her 10 best looks and shop out similar styles for your shoe rotation.
Related: Priyanka Chopra's Dress Is So Gorgeous, I Wouldn't Be Surprised If She Got Married in It
Gigi Hadid's Jeans Are Basic in the Front, Sophisticated in the Back
Gigi Hadid was apparently "feelin' extra fresh" while heading to her second fitting for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. The supermodel, who will be joining her sister Bella and BFF Kendall Jenner on the runway, was spotted wearing what we thought was a simple pair of jeans at first.
Gigi styled a white turtleneck Wolford bodysuit with a cozy Tod's jacket and Giuseppe Zanotti leopard-print boots. (She actually wore this exact coat while walking in the Tod's show back in February.)
The starlet completed her outfit with a two-toned pair of jeans from Monse, which featured a sophisticated plaid print on the back. Read on to see all angles of her cool denim, and buy the exact pair, as well as similar styles, if you're feeling inspired to give the trend a try.
22 Cute and Cozy Pieces Every Fashion Girl Will Be Hoping For This Year
Whether you're hunting for the perfect gifts for your loved ones or you're window shopping for your own wish list, try looking at Free People. The cool retailer carries everything from cozy coats to stunning jewelry and lush beauty products. We did the hard work for you and uncovered its 22 hottest picks of the year. Keep scrolling to shop our top picks.
11 Trends to Say Sayonara to in 2019, and What to Replace Them With
Just to clarify, when fresh trends surface, that doesn't mean we're completely tired of the old ones. More often than not, old styles come back again, and while we're offering you the 2019 print alternative to leopard ahead, that certainly doesn't mean we're getting rid of classic animal patterns - no sir! As we wave goodbye to 2018, we're searching for new ways to modernize our wardrobes and embrace the updated silhouettes and fabrics we'll see trickle from the runways to our favorite stores and retailers.
The 1 Pair of Combat Boots Gigi Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, and Kaia Gerber Swear By
There's a reason why Dr. Martens is so well known. The English brand, which started all the way back in 1947, is more relevant than ever, with models like Gigi Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, and Kaia Gerber making the brand's combat boots a seasonless wardrobe staple.
If you've been wondering how to give the edgy boots a try, we've got you covered. Whether you style a stark white pair with plaid pants or toughen up your classic black boots with a leather jacket, there are countless ways to wear 'em. Keep reading to get inspired by these 20 unique outfit ideas. Then, shop some of our favorite picks ahead.
20 Thanksgiving Dresses That Let You Reach For Seconds
Why do we love dresses? Let us count the ways. First of all, and perhaps most importantly, they're so comfortable. Especially a loose-fitting dress; it's comfortable, you can move around in it, and you don't have to wear pants, which is a top selling point for us. Whether you're gearing up for Thanksgiving dinner or just looking to bulk up your Fall wardrobe, might we suggest one of these stylish picks?
You've Seen These Jackets Everywhere This Season, and Now It's Time to Shop
We're all about finding clothes that are both chic and comfortable, and that's essentially the definition of shearling. The material is so soft and warm, but fashion girls can't get enough of the modern silhouettes. If you're looking for a new jacket this season, make it one of these shearling picks.
How to Have the Ultimate Harry Potter Day at Universal Orlando
Whether you're a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, there's something for everyone at Universal Orlando Resort's The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There are attractions like the Hogwarts Express and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which immerse you right into Harry's world. The dining options will make you feel like you've stepped right into the pages of J.K. Rowling's beloved books. Don't forget your wand and meet us at Platform 9 3/4 for the ultimate Harry Potter day at Universal Orlando.
50+ Target Finds Under 50 Bucks For Your Boyfriend - He's Gonna Love 'Em
So, what exactly do you get your boyfriend for the holidays without looking like you tried too hard, overthought it for months, or called his mother on the phone last week and asked what he wanted? Yeah, it's a question we have all asked ourselves at one point or another.
To keep your relationship casual, cool, and right where you want it this holiday season, get your guy some of these fun and thoughtful gifts from Target. Shop our picks for the best boyfriend gifts ahead!
Related: 150+ Presents You Can Get For Everyone on Your List - All From Target!
Score Major Points With 21 Gifts For Meeting the Family
When you're meeting your significant other's family for the first time over the holidays, the pressure can be on to bring something memorable - in a good way. So if you find yourself in that boat, we've got some gift ideas to make a great first impression and keep the meet-up stress free. Check them out now!
9 Unique Fall Festivals Around the World
Fall may be about harvests and pumpkin spice everything, but there's a whole lot more going on that is worth checking out. There are also festivals around the world that you should add to your bucket list. Some of them are in far-reaching corners of the globe, so they may just be an excuse to plan a trip!
What It's Like to Live in a Hurricane's Destruction After the World Stops Caring
Hurricanes are nothing new to the Florida Panhandle. A lot of people around Panama City, where I live, consider hurricane season a fifth season that falls somewhere in between Summer and Fall. When the news stations go haywire, we throw hurricane parties and stock up on booze and snacks. We roll our eyes and snicker because we know that we'll get a few days off from work and have some extra bonding time with our friends. Worst-case scenario, we lose power for a day or two and see a few street signs blown down.
With the exception of Hurricane Opal in 1995, Bay County's track record has been good for so long that I often wondered when our lucky streak would finally end. I never could have imagined that when it did, it would be this detrimental.
If I were to make a guess, I'd say that 90 percent of all Bay County residents did not evacuate for Hurricane Michael. That's close to 170,000 people who endured winds peaking at 155 MPH.
In less than 20 hours, the storm went from cautionary to life altering.
Judging from afar, people will probably question our decision to stay. They might even go as far as to say it's our own fault. But what most people don't realize is that our City Center was not ordered to evacuate. Only the areas in threat of storm surge were - primarily our beach and anyone living in mobile homes. The irony is that most of our beach residents evacuated inland to Panama City, and Panama City was demolished.
Also, keep in mind that Hurricane Michael underwent major changes between 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 9, and 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct 10, and was upgraded from a category 2 to a category 4 storm. By the time it made landfall about 12:30 p.m., it was one notch away from being a category 5. In less than 20 hours, the storm went from cautionary to life altering. It changed so quickly that it was too late for people to get out. The hurricane's force was compared to a massive EF3 tornado (the third most devastating tornado). In terms of pressure, Hurricane Michael is the third most intense hurricane to hit the mainland United States, after Hurricane Camille in 1969 and an unnamed Labor Day hurricane in 1935.
In Panama City, we were fighting to survive while the rest of the world was back to business as usual.
My neighborhood was hit hard, just as hard as my mother-in-law's, my parents', my best friend's, my third grade teacher's. There wasn't an area of our city that wasn't heavily impacted. My family (four adults, one 4-year-old child, and two dogs) rode out the storm in my 1,400-square-foot home. It was terrifying, to say the least. Trees crashed around us, the walls shook with fury, and the wind whistled in our ears like a freight train. If we lost our roof, we devised a plan to sit in my car, which was parked under my carport. It wasn't much of a plan, but it was all we had. We got lucky and didn't lose our roof.
I later discovered that my friend, who lives one street over, did. She, her husband, their 5-year-old, and their 18-month-old huddled in their car during the worst part of the storm after their roof had collapsed. Another friend of mine lost her roof along with the safety of her car. She had no choice but to run outside, into flying debris, falling trees, and monstrous winds, to take cover at their neighbors' across the street. My friend Christy and her husband were trapped inside their home for three days after the storm with their 2-month-old and their toddler. By the time they were rescued, they were down to one bottle of water and no ice. The horror stories are endless.
Overnight, our town was transformed into a weather-beaten war zone. The first week of living in post-Michael conditions felt like living in apocalyptic times. I expected zombies to appear at any moment.
Overnight, our town was transformed into a weather-beaten war zone.
We had no running water, meaning we couldn't flush the toilets. We couldn't wash our hands, either; we had to ration the bottled water we had left for other things - like drinking. After the storm, we moved to my parents' house, where there is a pool. We often rinsed our hands in the black, murky, possibly snake-infested pool water, and then we used hand sanitizer to kill the germs. We obviously had no power, and no power means no air conditioning in 100-degree Florida weather. It also meant no street lights, no home lights, no refrigerators, and no way to charge our cell phones. Not that cell phones were of much use: more than 60 percent of all Bay County residents were left with zero wireless service. We had no way of contacting one another to see who was OK and instead drove around looking for loved ones. But driving around was dangerous, and there was no gas to refill the tank, so we couldn't drive far. If you were lucky enough to have a generator, you didn't have enough gas to run the thing. There was zero access to health care: our hospitals and clinics were demolished, and nurses and doctors were trapped inside their own homes.
But perhaps the scariest part of living in a city that is smashed to hell is the looters. A high percentage of homes were highly exposed to looters because they had no roofs and broken windows. There weren't enough authorities to guard every single street, so individuals had to take matters into their own hands, posting signs like "You loot, I shoot" or "weapon strong." One woman had her purse stolen right from her hands when looters trespassed into her home. So many cars were smashed by trees that people were forced to walk around instead of drive, adding to their vulnerability.
For every five people I know, four have lost their homes.
My husband, my son, and I stuck it out for a week, but we finally decided that we'd had enough. We also needed to get my son to a doctor. The day of the storm, he'd developed a nasty cough that was quickly getting worse. We drove five hours to Jacksonville to get him some medicine and to stay with some friends, hoping to return when things calmed down. Driving out of the wreckage and back into society felt perplexing. One-hundred miles up the road, they had cell service, flushing toilets, functioning restaurants, and gas. In Panama City, we were fighting to survive, while the rest of the world was back to business as usual. We tried to enjoy our time away, but we started to feel like we'd deserted our home. So on day six, we made our way back.
Upon our return, I'm not sure what I expected to see, but somehow leaving the mess and then returning made the reality of the situation truly sink in. Tears trickled down my face as we drove back onto the once-familiar streets that were now unrecognizable. Massive 100-year-old oak trees that once provided so many homes and parks with natural shade were blown to smithereens, their extensive six-foot-wide roots lifted from the earth, disintegrating entire yards. The 50- to 80-foot pine trees that populated every street and every yard were snapped in half, piled into colossal mounds that were so high, they blocked entire homes. Almost every roof carried a new shade of blue: tarps were their only barrier to block any potential rain.
It's been 29 days since Hurricane Michael, and our city is still in shambles. We are eternally grateful to all the linemen who came from all over the country. They restored our power in record time, and because of them, we are able to begin to put the pieces back together. As of now, 98 percent of our county has power and water, but the restoration of power doesn't mean our thriving community has been restored. We have some businesses reopening, but the ratio of open to closed is 1:10. A few grocery stores made it through, but the restaurants are few and far between. Our hospitals are only partially opened, and a massive amount of our clinics were wiped out. Countless doctors, lawyers, and teachers are twiddling their thumbs because they have no place to work. For every five people I know, four have lost their homes. They're either staying with family or have relocated to neighboring counties. Many of our schools are still being used as shelters, because there is no place for the homeless to go. When I use the word "homeless," I'm referring to the people who recently became homeless because of the hurricane.
But I am happy to say that aside from all the destruction, there is a light that shines bright. The old saying applies that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. I've never felt so proud to be a Bay County resident. We have pulled ourselves out of the rubble and, somehow, through all of the mess, managed to hold our heads high. Our community has become a team, and everyone is adopting terms like #850strong and #wewillrebuild. Because we know that Hurricane Michael is not the end of Bay County, it's a new beginning.
It's Time to Give Thanks For These 16 Sexy Romances Out in November
It's the month to be thankful for family, happiness, and anything that makes our lives a little better - though, let's be honest: we're thankful for those things every day, right? But after we've finished giving thanks for the important things in life, I'd like to give a lot of thanks for these amazing must reads that are coming to our e-readers this month. I've compiled a whole list of sexy cowboys, dashing and domineering millionaires, and straight-up swoon-worthy men that we should all take a minute to be eternally grateful for - I hope you enjoy!
Your 2019 Travel Bucket List: 40 Spectacular Destinations to Visit in the New Year
Attention jet-setters: Lonely Planet's annual Best in Travel report has just been released for 2019, and we officially can't wait to begin packing our bags. If you need a touch of travel inspiration for the coming year, read on! From the vibrant and bustling to the secluded and off-the-beaten-path, this wanderlust-inducing list breaks down the top cities, countries, regions, and value-minded destinations to add to your globetrotting bucket list next year. Let's get ready for takeoff!
This Festive Game-of-Thrones-Themed Wedding Is a Medieval Fantasy Come to Life
Winter is coming . . . but so is wedding season, and this beautiful couple decided to celebrate their union Game of Thrones-style! You read that right: Claire and Chris tied the knot on the historic grounds of Thornewood Castle in Lakewood, WA, and their ceremony was filled with details from the iconic series amid a festive Christmas backdrop.
"Chris and Claire actually traveled down from Canada to celebrate in one of Washington's few celebrated castles," said photographer Jason Comerford. "They had their hearts set on a very authentic medieval-themed wedding due to their love of the Game of Thrones series. Their day was full of custom, handmade details, including their bridal party's beautiful outfits!"
If you take a close look at the pictures, the venue looks similar to the Red Keep, all decked out in holiday decor. Another fun detail is that Claire opted for a rustic metallic lantern with an elegant arrangement of pinkish-purple flowers instead of a traditional bouquet. Chris looked like 16th century royalty in a blue and gold jacket with ruffled sleeves. The ceremony was stunning; a string quartet played when Claire walked down the aisle, and later on, the couple drank from a chalice during their nuptials.
Check out the amazing pictures from the wedding!
10 New Fall Novels About Badass Women That Also Happen to Be Written by Badass Women
There's nothing better than reading a novel about a badass woman who takes control and shows those in her life just how brave she really is. If you're a fan of female characters who take the world by storm, these 10 new fiction picks of Fall will have you believing that women really are the future.
18 Simple Keto Dinner Recipes That Are Packed With Flavor - but Not Carbs
Alas, a diet that encourages healthy eating without taking away the joys in life, like cheese and butter. The keto diet has gained popularity in recent years because of its effectiveness and adaptability while allowing you to eat delicious food (keto brownie cake anybody?). In a nutshell, keto essentially eliminates carbohydrates and glucose and increases healthy fats in the diet in order to reach a state of ketosis - when the body burns stored fat over stored sugar. Of course, all diets come with certain risks, so you can read about whether this diet is right for you before trying it.
While we all know dinner can be the most challenging meal to get on the table, sticking to the keto guidelines can be just as tough after a long day. These recipes are low to no-carb, quick and easy to get on the dinner table, and won't break your ketosis.
This Is Exactly How Halle Berry Satisfies Her Sweet Tooth Without Feeling Guilty
Halle Berry's Instagram is hands down one of our favorite celebrity accounts to follow. Not only do we get a dose of all the fun stuff she's doing, but we also get to see how she trains and eats, thanks to her #FitnessFriday series.
A few weeks ago, Halle shared her go-to keto pasta recipe with us, and this week she's giving us a yummy dessert: avocado ice cream. If you frowned at "avocado," don't - do you really think she would share something gross with us?
In the words of Halle: "Don't knock it until you try it! This creamy dessert satisfies my sweet tooth and doesn't leave me feeling guilty." Give this keto-approved ice cream a shot, and let us know what you think.
These Are the 7 Exercises You Need to Start Doing If You Want to Master a Push-Up
Mastering a standard push-up may seem impossible, but I'm here to tell you that it's not. It may take some time, but I have faith that with practice and patience, you'll have them down in no time. To help you improve your upper-body strength and get acclimated to what a push-up will feel like, I suggest incorporating the following exercises into your upper-body workouts.
The Exercises
- High plank
- Dumbbell bench press
- TRX Push-up
- Bent-over row
- Incline push-up
- Plank with shoulder tap
- Negative push-up
You don't need to do all the exercises at once, unless you really want sore arms the next day. Instead, begin to incorporate at least one push-up variation, the dumbbell bench press, bent-over row, and high plank into your workouts. Try to do these exercises a minimum of two times a week. You won't get them overnight, but within four to six weeks, you should find yourself a lot closer to performing a push-up. To learn how to do these seven exercises, keep reading.
On the Keto Diet and Headed to Applebee's? Choose From These Low-Carb Dishes
It's near impossible to resist Applebee's - with its tasty appetizers and frequent drink specials, the casual dining spot is perfect for both family dinners and girls' night. One quick glance at the menu, though, and you might be wondering what (if anything) you can have on the keto diet.
Well, good news: Applebee's offers more than battered fish and potatoes. Like any other restaurant, you just need to learn the menu and feel comfortable asking your server for keto-friendly substitutes like grilled veggies. To get you started, we've pulled together a list of five dishes, packed with protein and fats but very few carbs:
- Appetizer: You'll have to pass on the battered and fried items on the menu, and even the soups are deceptively high in carbs. Instead, order the Small Caesar Salad or House Salad without croutons. Choose from any of the restaurant's keto-friendly dressings, including buttermilk ranch, bleu cheese, garlic Caesar, green goddess, or lemon olive oil vinaigrette.
- Chicken: Try the Cajun-seasoned Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp, drizzled with garlic butter and topped with sautéed mushrooms and grilled onions. Without the side of crispy potatoes, the vegetables add only about nine grams of net carbs. You can shift the balance of protein and fat by nixing the shrimp and asking for extra butter on the side.
- Steak: You can never go wrong with steak on keto - the fats and protein are super-filling. Order a simple sirloin, with steamed broccoli, fire-grilled veggies, or garlicky green beans on the side (you can choose two).
- Burger: You can still have a burger, if that's what you're craving. Choose from the classic options (a burger, cheeseburger, or bacon cheeseburger), and ask your server to leave off the bun, replacing it with an extra piece of lettuce you can use as a wrap. Skip the fries, too, swapping in veggies or a side salad.
- Salad: Greens are almost always a safe bet, but with toppings like crispy chicken and tortilla strips, the entree salads at Applebee's can contain up to 110 grams of carbs. Try the light but filling Grilled Chicken Salad, swapping the honey Dijon mustard dressing for one of the low-carb options above.
A Chef Explains How to Make the Crispiest Brussels Sprouts Ever Without Deep Frying Them
Pumpkin and butternut squash get all the attention during Fall and Winter (and rightfully so because they are both delicious), but my favorite comfort food during the cold months is a plate of roasted brussels sprouts. It's the perfect complementary side dish to a roasted chicken, vegan curry, or even Thanksgiving turkey.
But as much as I love brussels sprouts, I can never make them as well as restaurants do. Without fail, every restaurant I go to serves up a plate of brussels perfectly brown and crispy, while mine have more of a mushy and soggy texture - not exactly appetizing. And while some restaurants fry them or coat them in bacon fat, which of course makes them so tasty, you don't need vats of oil to make brussels sprouts crispy and delicious.
During a press trip to Cape Cod, Anthony Cole, executive chef at Chatham Bars Inn, revealed his secret for roasting the perfect brussels sprouts every time. "Use a very light amount of fat, then just put it in a really, really hot oven, like 450 degrees is what we do at home," he told POPSUGAR. "Lay the sprouts flat on a sheet tray so they're not piled up on top of each other, and just roast those suckers."
Making sure they are evenly spread out and not on top of each other is key. He also said to make sure you roast them long enough at that high temperature. About 10-15 minutes should be good, but keep an eye on them; when they start to get browned, caramelized, and crispy, it's time to take them out.
Chef Cole is a fan of olive oil and primarily uses it when roasting veggies. But for cooking at higher temps, he also recommends canola oil or grapeseed oil: lighter, clearer oils that have a high smoke point. You don't need a ton of oil to roast your brussels, but he said you can finish them off with a drizzle of olive oil afterward or top with roasted garlic or even roasted chickpeas.
And for the best brussels sprouts possible, start with a quality veggie. Chef Cole recommends hitting up the farmers market instead of the supermarket for the best, freshest options. Brussels sprouts are in season all Fall and Winter long, so make sure you hit up your local farmers market, and get to roasting!
Travel and expenses for the author were provided by Chatham Bars Inn for the purpose of writing this story.
If You're Feeling Anxious, Try Playing Tetris to Calm Your Nerves (Seriously!)
Did you used to waste hours playing Tetris as a kid? The game has been popular on computers, Game Boys, and other game consoles for decades and viewed as nothing more than a way to pass the time. But researchers have discovered that Tetris is actually a great way to ease feelings of anxiety.
A study published in the journal Emotion found that playing Tetris can help calm your nerves and move you through periods of anxiety by getting your brain into a state of "flow." "The state of flow is one where you're completely absorbed or engaged in some kind of activity," Katie Sweeny, a psychologist at the University of California, Riverside, who co-authored the study, told NPR. "You lose your self-awareness, and time is just flying by."
If you've ever lost hours to Tetris or a similar game, then you know the feeling. The game distracts your brain and can be an effective coping tool when dealing with feelings of anxiety. For the study, the researchers evaluated a group of 300 college students and told them they were going to be evaluated by their peers based on their attractiveness - a mean way to get someone's nerves up, but it worked to stress out the group.
The participants were split up into three groups: one group played a slow version of the game, one played an incredibly fast and challenging version, and a third played the classic version, which starts out moderate and adapts to your skill level the longer you play. For this third group, they were able to get into the "flow" of playing while the slow group was bored by the pace of the game and the fast group got too stressed out. The classic group that was able to get into the "flow" had higher levels of positive emotions and lower levels of negative emotions.
"It wasn't a huge difference, but we think it's noticeable," Dr. Sweeny told NPR. "And over time, it can add up." Fortunately, it doesn't even have to be Tetris exactly that can get you into a state of flow and calm your anxiety. Any activity that you enjoy that uses your brain and can get you into a rhythm will work: a dance class, biking, or playing a board game.
As someone who suffers from bouts of anxiety, I decided to give this method a try. On the subway ride home last night, which can usually make me feel pretty anxious, I decided to play Tetris. I hadn't played since middle school, but I was surprised at how easily I was able to pick it up again. The time flew by and before I knew it, I was already getting off at my stop. Although I have my own coping mechanisms to deal with anxiety, I'll definitely keep Tetris in mind for when I really want to distract my brain.
If I Could Only Buy 1 of Oprah's Favorite Things, This Would Be It
I feel like my best self in Spin class, but putting me on a real bike is a different story entirely. It's not that I can't ride a bike: it's just that when I do, I can't stop thinking about how dangerous it is. Whenever my friends tell me they bike to work or to get around the city, I'm baffled. It's no secret that wearing a helmet is an essential safety precaution when you're riding, but the sad reality is that I see so many people biking through the city without any kind of protection.
That's exactly why the Lumos Smart Bike Helmet ($179) stopped me in my tracks while scrolling through Oprah's Favorite Things,.
Why is a bike helmet my top choice from this epic gifting list? Because it lights up, so if you're biking before the sun is up or after it's gone down, you'll be seen. It also has both turn and brake signals, which makes drivers and pedestrians all the more aware of how you're moving. If you know anyone who bikes regularly, you just found their holiday present. It comes in six colors, and I just placed an order for myself, so maybe you'll catch me on a real bike after all.
If You're Nervous to Try a Boxing Class, Here's What an Instructor Wants You to Know
As boutique fitness classes have exploded in popularity, there's one type of group fitness that's really taken off: boxing. And while some classes are more hardcore and designed to make you feel like you're starring in a Rocky sequel, others include elements of boxing that are perfect for beginners.
One of the most popular boutique boxing classes is Rumble, a boxing-inspired group fitness class in Los Angeles and New York with new locations opening up around the country. I'm a big fan of Rumble and take a class about once a week. But when I first started a few months ago, I had no idea what I was doing and was afraid I would make an ass out of myself or, worse, get hurt.
If you're looking to incorporate boxing into your routine but are too intimidated to get started, we tapped certified personal trainer Kendall Toole, founding trainer at Rumble in LA. She breaks down what to expect at your first class, what you should wear, and how to get the most out of your workout. Read on for her helpful tips.
Got 1 Can of Pumpkin? Make These 3 Healthy Recipes
Your recipe called for half a cup of pumpkin, so you put the rest in the fridge, vowing to use it for another recipe. A week later, you find your sad little pumpkin puree and regretfully throw it out, feeling bad that yet another leftover can of pumpkin went to waste. Consider your pumpkin puree problems solved! Crack open a can and make these three recipes - they add up to 15 ounces of canned pumpkin.
These $25 Compression Socks Totally Transformed My Swollen Legs
At the end of almost every day, my feet, ankles, and lower calves feel swollen and tired. For me, it's a genetic issue because everyone in my family has poor circulation. I've been instructed by doctors to make sure I kick back and rest my feet as often as I can, but when I'm running around or working, that's much easier said than done.
I usually experience the most swelling while flying, to the point where I don't dare to take my shoes off mid-flight because I know I won't be able to squeeze my puffy feet back into them. At the urging of my friends, I finally took the plunge and scrambled to purchase this Laite Hebe 7 Pack of Compression Socks ($25). They boast more than 4,300 reviews from passionate customers who saw significant changes in their leg swelling, which compelled me to click and buy.
After my flight, I took the socks off to find that my legs were my normal, nonswollen size. That was a first. Now I'm completely addicted to wearing them at the gym or even just under my jeans and booties to work. You don't have to have a circulation issue to wear these socks either. They're great for exercising in general, to help blood circulation and oxygen flow, and preventing cramping. And if you have a job where you're on your feet all day, these can help give you some relief.
They come in an array of styles and colors, ideal for every day or the gym. Keep scrolling to see all the choices.
28 Fitness Gifts For Your Friend Who Only Wears Black
So, you need a gift for your friend who refuses to wear any color whatsoever? No problem! There are some great all-black fitness finds out there, especially because the dark shade covers up sweat so effortlessly. You might love some of these pieces so much that you'll end up with a cart full of jet-black gym clothes for yourself, too! Take a look.- Additional reporting by Maggie Panos
Related: After You Read This, You'll Never Ask "What Should I Wear to This Workout?"
This Trainer Explains Why Women Should Eat Carbs For Weight Loss and Overall Health
The low-carb diet craze has been a popular way to lose weight and stay lean for decades now. It started with Atkins, then South Beach, to eventually Paleo, Whole30, and now keto. Many people assume that eating too many carbs will impact their blood sugar and make them gain weight, so they eschew carbs entirely in favor of more protein and fat.
In reality, carbs have many health benefits. And while it's true that limiting carbs can help you lose weight in the short-term (carbs hold on to water more than any other macronutrient, so when you cut them out, you lose water weight), it may not be sustainable for most people. After all, could you go a lifetime without sweet potatoes or brown rice or whole-grain bread?
NASM-certified personal trainer and fitness coach Marci Nevin (@MarciNevin) explained in an Instagram post why carbs are so important for overall health, especially for women. "Sure low carb diets can be work in some circumstances," she wrote in her caption. "But for the sake of this post, I'm speaking more specifically to women who are in generally good health, doing frequent intense exercise, likely a little stressed, and have a goal of better body composition. For that woman, eating an adequate amount of carbs can be very beneficial."
She explained carbs are so beneficial for overall health because they:
- Provide fuel for intense training.
- Allow for recovery from intense training.
- Help thyroid function.
- Improve mood and brain function.
- Help you get better sleep.
- Provide macronutrients for good health.
- Have fiber, which supports gut health.
- May help with weight loss.
- Keep sex and stress hormones in check.
"Carbs, like rice, potatoes, etc. are the fuel source for high intensity training," she explained. "They are also what help your body recover from that intense exercise so you can hit it hard again in the next workout." She went on to say that if you're only getting your carbs from vegetables, you will eventually burn out.
Obviously, everyone's nutritional needs are different. Registered dietitian Jim White, ACSM, recommends that carbs should be your biggest macronutrient group throughout the day. For weight loss, he suggests a macro breakdown of 40 percent carbs, 30 percent fat, and 30 percent protein. Start with this ratio and adjust from there, depending on your desired results.
So don't be afraid of carbs anymore - if you are feeling lethargic and burned out on a low-carb diet, feel free to incorporate them back into your life. Just make sure you are sticking to whole complex carbs like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal.
22 Healthy, but Decadent Desserts For Your Thanksgiving Feast
It's OK if the one thing you're most excited about for Thanksgiving is the dessert. We can't blame you! It can be hard to save calories during the holidays, especially when your dining room table is full of goodies. Make your indulgences work for you with delicious, healthy versions of highly caloric desserts. Read on for some of our favorite healthier Thanksgiving desserts, from vegan pies to lower-cal cookies!
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