Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 16 novembre 2018
This Is the Exercise You Should Be Doing If You Want to Learn How to Deadlift
Deadlifts are arguably one of the best exercises to strengthen your core, legs, back, and glutes - hello, booty. A common way to perform a deadlift is with a barbell, but if you're new to strength training, you'll want to start with something a little easier in order to get the form down.
To help you perfect your form, Michael B. Jordan's trainer Corey Calliet showed me a Romanian deadlift variation to teach you the basics.
How to Do a Cable Machine Romanian Deadlift
- Adjust the carriage so that it's at the bottom of the cable machine. Attach a triceps rope handle to the pulley on the carriage of a cable station. You should be facing the pulley.
- Next, select the amount of resistance you want - 20 to 30 pounds is a great starting point. As you begin to become more comfortable with the movement, feel free to increase the weight.
- Facing the pulley, grab the rope, and step approximately three feet away from the machine.
- With a slight bend in your knees, slowly bend at your hips (this is a hinge movement pattern) as you simultaneously extend your arms forward. Your core should be engaged, and your back should be flat.
- Then squeeze your glutes to stand back up as you simultaneously pull your elbows back (like you're performing a bent-over row). Pull with power, and continue to squeeze your glutes at the top to get full hip extension. Be sure to keep your core engaged.
- This counts as one rep. Complete four sets of 12 reps.
Doing Ab Workouts but Not Losing Belly Fat? A Trainer Explains Why - and How to Fix It
If you've been doing ab workouts to no avail with the hopes of losing subcutaneous fat around your middle, you may want to think again. Often, people mistakenly believe that doing planks, crunches, and other ab exercises are what they need in order to flatten their stomachs, and the truth is: ab workouts don't burn belly fat. Exercises like mountain climbers and leg lifts are great if you want to strengthen your core, but if your goal is to reduce the fat around your belly, lower your body fat percentage, and maybe even get a six-pack, ab workouts alone won't cut it.
How to Lose Belly Fat
Instead of focusing on spot reduction, I think the best way to approach losing stomach fat, and fat in general, is by consistently training in the zone that allows you to burn the most fat. Bear with me. I know an answer like this can seem vague and frustrating, but the style of training that works for you to get rid of stomach fat may not work for someone else. You've probably heard that doing high-intensity workouts is the best way to burn fat. If you take anything away from this post, let it be that the best way to lose fat isn't one size fits all.
I agree that high-intensity workouts like sprinting that use multiple muscle groups at once are great in general. But, in order to find out what workout is best for you and your goals, consider getting a specialized test like the FatMax Protocol test. This test measures fat oxidation at different exercise intensities - basically, the exercise intensity where your body optimally burns the most fat. From there, you can work with an exercise physiologist or a certified trainer to design a training program that is best for you.
Unfortunately, this test is more than likely not offered at your primary care physician's office or at local gyms and fitness studios. Depending on where you live, you may be able to find a wellness company that offers the FatMax test and other body composition assessments. You can also contact local hospitals to see if they offer these specialized assessments. The PhysioLab, at Mount Sinai in NYC, administers the test for $450. This price may vary depending on your location and who is administering the test. I haven't had the opportunity to get this test done, but I definitely think it's worth the investment to figure out the best workouts for fat loss, your body, and your goals.
Weightlifting Can Help You Lose Fat
If you're unable to do the FatMax Protocol test because it's not available in your area or feels too pricey, I recommend incorporating weightlifting into your workout routine. I think lifting weights is one of the best ways to decrease your body fat, while maintaining and building lean muscle. If you're new to strength training, you can get started with this beginner's program. If you're more experienced with lifting weights, I suggest implementing more compound exercises - exercises that work larger muscles groups, and as a result, cause you to burn more calories and fat - into your routine. A few of my go-to compound exercises are: deadlifts, pull-ups, lunges, and renegade rows.
You'll Want to Check Your Diet
Now that you have an idea on how you should be training, it's time to discuss your nutrition. You don't have to be extreme and do the low-carb high-fat keto diet, but I do recommend minimizing or even completely cutting out alcohol, sugars, and processed foods. Similar to there being no one perfect workout to lose fat, there's not one perfect diet. It may take a lot of trial and error to figure out what works best for you, and I highly recommend working with a registered dietitian to devise a nutritional program that makes sense for your lifestyle and goals.
Most Beans Are Off-Limits on the Keto Diet, So What About This Thanksgiving Classic?
The countdown to Thanksgiving is officially on, and if you're feeling a little discouraged by everything you can't eat on the keto diet (ahem, your aunt's signature biscuits), here's a bit of good news: green beans get the green light.
While green beans share a name with off-limits legumes like kidney and pinto beans, they are much lower in carbs. "In one cup of green beans, there are about 10 grams of carbohydrates, with four of those coming from fiber," Jaclyn Shusterman, RDN, CD, CNSC, a health coach at Arivale, told POPSUGAR. That's only six grams of net carbs, making green beans about as virtuous as a side of broccoli or brussels sprouts.
When preparing green beans, try sautéing them in oil and topping them with herbs for a flavor-packed bite. (On keto, you can even serve them with bacon or prosciutto.) If you just can't have Thanksgiving without the traditional green bean casserole, there are ways to make that keto-friendly, too - by making the sauce with almond flour, for example.
If You Want to Lose Weight and Keep It Off, a New Study Suggests Going Low-Carb
Carbs seem to be so controversial: some people swear by eating them to boost energy and help them lose weight, while others eschew them almost entirely to get their body into the fat-burning state of ketosis. So which one is best for weight loss?
A study published in the journal BMJ assessed 164 overweight or obese people. The researchers found that those who ate a high-fat, low-carb diet increased their metabolisms compared to the low-fat, high-carb group. In fact, the low-carb group burned about 250 more calories a day compared to the high-carb group after five months.
"This study confirms that, remarkably, diets higher in starch and sugar change the body's burn rate after weight loss, lowering metabolism," Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, DrPH, the dean of the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, told The New York Times. "The observed metabolic difference was large, more than enough to explain the yo-yo effect so often experienced by people trying to lose weight."
These new findings suggest that the calories in, calories out (CICO) mentality of weight loss may be outdated. Although it seems like there's a new study every day that proclaims a revolutionary discovery about weight loss, this particular study was one of the largest and most expensive feeding trials, The New York Times reported.
However, not every body is the same; it's best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to find the best dietary plan for you. That may mean eating more carbs to have more energy or dialing them way back like on the keto diet. Ultimately, a diet only works if you treat it like a lifestyle change and stay on it long-term.
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.
21 Vegetarian Holiday Dishes That Aren't Plain Veggies
With turkey as the main event and animal products lurking in staple sides like stuffing and gravy, the holidays can be a tough time for vegetarians. But veggie-based should never mean fun-free, so here's a roundup of 21 creative, magnificently meatless holiday foods. Whether you're a loyal vegetarian or committed carnivore, you'll find many things to love about these dishes - because no one should have to eat plain ol' green beans at the happiest time of the year.
Build Strength and Burn Calories With These 25 At-Home Cardio Exercises
We're here to tell you that when it comes to calorie-burning cardio, you don't even need to leave your home. And you don't need any equipment! We've rounded up 25 of our favorite bodyweight exercises that are guaranteed to raise your heart rate. The cardio moves will not only help you burn fat, but they will help you build muscle, too. Pick a handful to use for your next at-home HIIT workout or to create your own cardio warmup before a strength-training session in your living room.
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
Walking Can Help Burn Belly Fat, but Only If You Follow This Trainer's Advice
If you think there's no point in exercising if you can't crush it in the gym for an hour, think again. Doing 30 minutes of aerobic activity like walking can help burn belly fat, slimming your waist and preventing conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Numerous studies have supported this, such as a 2007 study published in the International Journal of Obesity, which concluded that aerobic exercise like brisk walking is essential for visceral fat reduction, and a past study published in Environmental Health and Preventative Medicine found that women who walked less than 7,500 steps a day had more belly fat than those who met or exceeded that goal.
But while walking can definitely help burn belly fat, it's not quite that simple, Steven Goelzer, a certified personal trainer and metabolic specialist at Life Time Athletic in Laguna Nigel, CA, told POPSUGAR. "Burning fat depends way more on hormones than the type of workout you're doing," Goelzer said. "Low-intensity exercise (like walking) should burn a high percentage of fat, but the volume of training needed does not necessarily fit well in most people's schedules," he added, noting that a person's metabolism also helps determine how much walking they'd need to do to start to burn fat.
Lifestyle plays an even bigger role in belly fat - it's essential that you eat right and work to keep stress at bay, he explained. Of course, walking can help with both of these things, but together they're a factor in how much belly fat you're able to burn. "Too many things contribute to say just one thing will make losing belly fat easier," Goelzer said.
To stay healthy and maximize your fat-burning potential, Goelzer recommends walking six times a week for 30 minutes or more. Regular exercise and a steady adherence to a long-term program - along with a healthy diet and stress management - is your best bet for overall health, he added.
The Golden Rules of Fat Loss, According to an Expert
Never run again - lift more instead! Can getting fit really be that simple?
We asked Sarah Chadwell, NASM certified personal trainer and natural bodybuilder, just how you could skip running and still look like a gym goddess. She told POPSUGAR that there are more effective training practices to burn fat and build strength. "You can cardio yourself to death and still have the same flat figure," said Chadwell. "Or you can follow the golden rules of weight loss, never run again, and have a lean, sexy, curvaceous physique."
Here are the golden rules of fat loss that Chadwell lives by:
Why Wait Until Jan. 1? Start This Supersimple 6-Step Fat-Loss Plan Today
If you're feeling overwhelmed or confused about how to move forward on your weight-loss journey, here's a simple plan from fat-loss coach Carter Good (@cartergood on Instagram) to help you get started. With colder weather and the holiday season, Carter said it may be hard to muster up the discipline to stay consistent with a weight-loss plan. You may be thinking, "Forget it. I'll just start Jan. 1."
Only you know if now isn't the right time. But what if it was? What if you started today? Imagine waking up on New Year's Day, feeling lighter and stronger, with an arsenal of healthy habits built up? You'll feel "energized and excited to make 2019 the year you build the body and health you've always wanted," Carter wrote. End 2018 on the highest note possible, feeling proud and psyched to keep going.
If you're ready now, Carter's plan is a great place to begin. To follow it, he recommends starting each week with one of these habits; if you already do one, move on to another. He also said you can follow the order he has or pick and choose which ones you want to start with. "There's no right way to do it," he wrote. "All six habits are going to help you stay mindful and consume fewer calories." Let's do this!
A 34-Minute Interval Walking Treadmill Workout That'll Actually Help You Lose Weight
Getting fit can sometimes feel impossible, especially if you have never worked out or used to and are struggling to build back endurance and get back into a routine. We get that! But what if we told you that you could walk your way into a healthier, toner body and weight loss? A short interval walking routine can do that for you, while also improving your health.
Before you say, "No way; I can't run," we're not referring to a walk-run interval plan. Our interval walking plan features steady state walking on a flat incline and interval walking on an incline to get your heart rate up. "Using a heart rate monitor, I found that my heart rate would get just as high walking on an incline as it did when I was steady state jogging without incline," said certified personal trainer Sarah Chadwell, NASM, who has used the technique in her own training.
Here's everything you need to know about interval walking and its benefits, and a 34-minute plan that'll get you started.
22 Cute and Useful Gifts Your Babysitter Will Love
This holiday season, we know there's an endless list of people you need to buy gifts for, but one person you shouldn't let slip through the cracks is your nanny. Show your appreciation by finding them the perfect gift. This is no easy task; it has to be personal, original, and reflective of just how much they mean to you. We've come up with thoughtful gift ideas that do just that - and they all come in at under $100! Whether they're an artsy type, a makeup-lover, or a serious student, there's something for every kind of special sitter. Take a look at these choices.
More Than 50 of the Best Gifts For 8-Year-Olds in 2018
From cool science kits and remote-controlled planes to an updated version of the classic game of Simon, the 8-year-old on your list is ready for some fun. We've rounded up our favorite finds for the 8-year-olds in your life, whether they teeter on the edge of little-kid play or are already into big-kid games. Check it out!
To find exactly the gift you're looking for, check out the categories below.
- Educational and STEM Toys
- Riding Toys
- Outdoor Toys
- Dolls and Plush Toys
- Games and Puzzles
- Pretend Play and Dress-Up
- Books
- Crafts and Projects
- Just for Fun
100 Baby Names You've Never Heard of but Are Going to Want to Use
Every baby is special and unique, but the list of the country's most popular names Sophia, Emma, Jackson, and Aiden, to name a few — reveal that many babies are crawling around sporting the same name. We looked further into the United States Social Security Administration's (long) list of popular baby names and picked out the most unique of the bunch for you to consider for your one-of-a-kind baby.
Read through for 100 unusual baby names you've never heard of, but are definitely going to want to put to use!
The Best 90+ Gifts For 5-Year-Olds in 2018
The kindergartener on your list is no longer a tot. Somehow, moving into kindergarten helps kids express themselves more than ever before, so finding toys and games that help them build on the skills they are learning at school can also help them express themselves even more. From concentration games and early reading skills to Lego sets and Barbies, there's something on this list for every 5-year-old you know.
Read through for our favorite finds for the 5-year-old on your list, or consider getting them a stocking stuffer instead.
To find exactly the gift you're looking for, check out the categories below.
- Educational and Stem Toys
- Riding Toys
- Outdoor Toys
- Dolls and Plush Toys
- Games and Puzzles
- Pretend Play and Dress-Up
- Crafts and Projects
- Home and Clothing
- Books
This Couple Had a "Kitten Hour" at Their Wedding, and Yes, It's a Cat Lady's HEAVEN
Colleen and Iz, a couple from Washington, knew they wanted something out-of-the-box for their wedding day. And while they were most definitely looking forward to the reception, the pair wanted to do something special for their guests once the ceremony was over. They put their heads together and came up with the greatest idea ever: a "kitten hour," where guests held and played with tiny kitties while the couple took photos. Colleen and Iz enlisted photographer Kendall Shea of F*ck Yeah Weddings to capture the adorable moments, and frankly, I really should've been invited.
"We wanted our guests to have something to do as they arrived [while] we took pictures with our families, so we planned a kitten hour," Colleen told POPSUGAR. "We did a cocktail hour with cocktails named after our cats for the reception, but the Quaker meeting house we used for the ceremony doesn't allow alcohol on premises. I wanted a wedding falcon, but Iz vetoed that, and so we compromised on kittens."
Related: This Woman Takes the Most Breathtaking Photos of Her Cats Wearing Floral Crowns Like True Queens
Incorporating kittens into their special day was particularly important to the cat-loving couple. Although Colleen and Iz have two cats in their home, the cats' special needs prevented them from attending their owners' ceremony.
"We're HUGE cat people," stressed Colleen, who's also highly allergic to felines. "We adopted our two cats - Ladybird and Pangur Ban - as adults, and they have some special needs: Lady is blind, Pangur has IBS. But they're so special to us, and we wanted to do something to honor the love they've brought into our lives."
"It was hilarious to see our big, tough dads melting as they cuddled these tiny kittens . . . More than a few folks wanted to adopt right there on the spot, but the kittens were a little too young to be adopted out that day."
The next best thing? Coordinate with the Seattle Animal Shelter to arrange for rescue kitties to make an appearance instead.
"All we did was make a donation to the shelter, and we showed up the day of our wedding to a group of volunteers wrangling a litter of fuzzy little dudes," said Colleen. "They smelled AMAZING, like fresh little babies. We felt strongly about making sure we were supporting the Seattle Animal Shelter and not a breeder because we love our own rescue cats so much. They're funky, needy, and perfect for us."
Obviously, the kittens were a huge hit. How could they not be?
"The guests loved them," said Colleen. "So many people said it was their favorite part of the wedding, and they were a great conversation starter. It was hilarious to see our big, tough dads melting as the cuddled these tiny kittens. The atmosphere was definitely pretty mellow. More than a few folks wanted to adopt right there on the spot, but the kittens were a little too young to be adopted out that day."
Iz agreed, saying that she'd definitely consider doing it again some day. "I remember walking into the [venue] and being a little wound up with excitement. One of our friends saw me and handed me a kitten. I could feel my body immediately relax. I would totally do it again, maybe for the 10-year anniversary."
Keep reading to get a look at the photos and try not to double over with jealousy.
Related: A Photographer Takes Pictures of Cats "High" on Catnip, and It'll Be Your New Favorite Thing
AMC's "Best Christmas Ever" Lineup Is Seriously Amazing (It's Airing Elf!)
This holiday season, AMC is the place to find a bunch of your and your kids' favorite festive films - the network's 2018 "Best Christmas Ever" will be its largest slate of holiday offerings, from movies to TV specials. From Nov. 26 through Dec. 25, over 600 hours of holiday programming will air on AMC, giving you and your family plenty of opportunities to hunker down on the couch with blankets and cocoa to watch your favorites.
Check out which family-friendly films and specials (the ones your kids will likely be most excited about) will be airing, ahead!
Why It's a Pretty Big Deal That Dwyane Wade Is Taking Paternity Leave
Fans said it when he was traded to his hometown team, the Chicago Bulls, in 2016, and they said it again when he returned to play for the Miami Heat for his final season in 2018, but now Dwyane Wade is really going home. After welcoming his first child with wife Gabrielle Union via surrogate on Nov. 7, the basketball player has officially taken paternity leave to be with Gabrielle and their baby girl, Kaavia James Union Wade. He has three sons from previous relationships, but because his bundle of joy is in such a precious state right now, Dwyane doesn't want to leave her side.
"For me, once I leave and go back to the season, not really being able to [have her] with me everywhere I go, this time right now, this bonding moment with my daughter, is the most important thing in my life at this time," he told the Associated Press on Sunday. "And then I'll go from there - see how she's doing and make a decision based on that."
"The world expects moms to take time off from work. They never expect dads to be the ones who take time away."
It's something we don't talk about often - professional athletes taking paternity leave - but Dwyane's decision to take time off should come as no surprise given the NBA's rigorous travel schedule and, of course, his unwavering dedication to his family (I mean, his Twitter bio literally says, "I'm a father First and everything else after that . . ."). According to the AP, there is no official paternity leave policy in the NBA (the MLB is the only major professional league in the US that has a parental leave policy, "one that allows players to take up to three days"), "so players and teams work out such situations on their own." But the AP reports that Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is "totally fine with it" and wants Dwyane taking however long he needs.
It's his 16th and final season in the league, and the three-time NBA champion returned to play for Miami for "one last dance," but no matter the team, no matter the season, no matter the time, family is simply his priority. Back when he announced that this would be his final season in September, he touched upon his desire to take some time off in regard to surrogacy and the difficulty he and Gabrielle had conceiving naturally.
"The world expects moms to take time off from work," he said. "They never expect dads to be the ones who take time away. Because of the route we took to this, it's important that not only my wife but also me take this time. I was going to take the whole year. I was going to retire this Summer, but I decided to just take a little time in between instead."
Basketball is his career, but for Dwyane, family is his life. Read on to see photos of Dwyane with his newborn daughter, Kaavia, and with his family.
I'm Really Strict About My Kids' Screen Time . . . Except During the Holidays
I've been known to be a little controlling about my kids' screen time. We don't own tablets (not even my husband and I), we don't have cable, and my kids don't own any gaming devices. I'm old school regarding technology and very proud of it. But during the holidays, I throw all of those rules out the window. A huge part of the holiday season is relaxing and spending time together as a family, which sometimes means lounging around the TV for long stretches of time. So, if that means my kids get an unlimited amount of screen time during the holiday months, so be it. I don't beat myself up over it.
One of my favorite things during the holidays as a child was sitting in the family room with my parents and three rowdy brothers. We'd watch tons of Christmas movies, eat holiday cookies, and just be together. Those memories are so special, which is why I forget about my strict rules for a little bit to do the same with my own kids. No, I don't let them watch TV all day and not interact with anyone, but I let their bodies and minds relax. And since we're stuck inside a lot of the time due to cold weather, screen time gives me a break, too. I don't feel the need to think of indoor activities or make sure they're stimulated and learning 24/7. Christmas movies marathons are just fine.
Last year, we loved watching Elf, A Christmas Story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and more together. We hunkered down in our pajamas, passed around the popcorn and cookies, and watched the classic Christmas tales unfold in front of us. My kids couldn't contain their laughter when Will Ferrell inhaled spaghetti mixed with syrup and candy, which made my husband and me burst out laughing, too. So while my kids were engulfed in a screen, we were also making precious family memories. And it's so worth it every year.
And if we head to one of our relatives' houses for the holiday, I let my kids watch movies there, too. Nobody sits hovered over their own screens. We make sure that individual devices are put away, and we all enjoy something together. It's fun watching a movie with the family when the ages range between 4 and 83. When a grandfather and his granddaughter can laugh hysterically at the same Christmas joke, then the TV can be on all day long for all I care. These years with my kids and my parents are precious, and if movies are the thing that helps them create priceless memories, I'm all for it.
Sometimes I forget that movies and television help create some of the best family moments and memories, both during the holidays and after. It's the togetherness of the screen time that truly matters. Well, that and the 6-foot elf in green tights running around New York City.
Elf on the Shelf Now Offers More Inclusive Options, and We Love the Tradition Even More
Ah, Elf on the Shelf. The beloved tradition, which inspires kids to be on their best behavior before Santa Claus comes, has been around for a while now. Parents love hiding them, and kids love waking up to find the elaborate schemes they pulled during the night. They bring joy and magic to families during the holidays, but there was one major problem with them for a while: Elf on the Shelf only offered one standard Elf - a brunette, blue-eyed male. This has rightfully been rectified in recent years (although they can still do so much more), and families can now choose their elf from a few genders and skin tones ($30). Keep reading to see the new additions to this Santa-helping crew!
Regal Cinemas Will Do Sensory-Friendly Screenings of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindlewald This Weekend!
Seeing a movie in theaters is such a fun experience, but for children with sensory processing disorders, autism, and other special needs, as well as those who aren't big fans of the dark or a lot of noise, the cinema isn't the most comfortable place to be. Because every child and their family should be able to enjoy a brand-new movie in theaters, Regal Cinemas is introducing the My Way Matinee program, a sensory-friendly movie-going experience that will feature lower sounds and brighter lights in the theaters.
In addition to the volume and lighting adjustments, those visiting the theaters for these once-a-month showings will be able to dance, sing, and shout along with the characters in the films. Each My Way Matinee show will begin at 10:30 a.m. local time, and the best news? Tickets will only cost $6.50.
"Regal strives to be 'The Best Place to Watch a Movie,' and that means creating positive, lasting memories for all moviegoers," Sandra Heinig, director of public relations at Regal, said in a press release. "We are continually expanding this program to include even more theaters, because we want every movie fan to feel comfortable and have fun at Regal."
Regal Cinemas has held sensory-friendly screenings for a number of new releases this Summer, and will kick off the Halloween season with Nov. 17 showings of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindlewald. Visit the My Way Matinee information page to find out if your local Regal is participating in the program. (And check out which kids' movies you can stream on Netflix right now!)
Is It Safe to Get the Flu Shot While Pregnant? Why Experts Say It's Vital For Your Baby's Health
If you're pregnant, flu season can be very scary. To avoid getting sick and keeping your baby as healthy as possible, you may be wondering if it's safe to get the flu shot. Well, good news: not only is it safe, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly advise pregnant women to protect themselves against the flu by getting immunized, no matter their stage of pregnancy.
POPSUGAR spoke with Sabina Kobylinski-Tognazzini, assistant medical director at Doctor On Demand, who seconds the motion that pregnant women should get the flu shot. "Pregnant women can receive the flu shot in any trimester," she said, emphasizing it's the shot that's safe for pregnant women, not the live nasal spray vaccine.
It's actually very important to get vaccinated against the flu if you're expecting because, as Kobylinski-Tognazzini explained, "Pregnant women are likely to become much sicker after catching the flu than nonpregnant women due to changes in body chemistry." Further concern is that catching the flu can be potentially harmful to an unborn baby. According to the Mayo Clinic, getting a fever caused by the flu in early pregnancy can increase the risk of fetal birth defects. The good news is that getting the flu shot during pregnancy offers protection for your baby. "Pregnant mothers who are immunized with the flu vaccine can pass along protective antibodies to their babies after birth," Kobylinski-Tognazzini said.
Your doctor can advise as to any reason you should not get the flu shot, such as if you have a severe, life-threatening egg allergy or have suffered a bad reaction to the flu vaccine previously.
Move Over, Hollow Chocolate - These Lego Advent Calendars Are What Your Kid Actually Wants
My family never did Advent calendars when I was growing up, and I didn't think I was missing anything by not getting a piece of milk chocolate every day with the popping of a perforated cardboard window. But had I been privy to the knowledge of a Lego calendar that would allow me to build something small each day, I would have given the 'rents a tough time for sure. Forget the chocolate squares - these three Lego Advent calendars will eliminate the daily sugar high and give your kids something fun and productive to do every day (hopefully giving you a few minutes of much-needed me time).
See the three Lego themes available for 2018 ahead (and don't worry, we're thinking the same thing as you: it's going to be a true exercise of willpower to not pop open and build a few of these ourselves after our kids are in bed).
There's a Retreat For Moms of Kids With Disabilities, Because Self-Care Is So Important
Parenting is hard, but parenting a child with a disability can sometimes feel like the most impossible mountain to climb. When a child has an invisible disability, like autism or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), their very serious meltdowns may look like a bratty child throwing a temper tantrum to others, but what many quick-to-judge people don't know is what's really going on below the surface. That particular child might be overstimulated by the loud music playing in the store or the screeching wheels of the grocery cart, and they simply can't take it anymore. Their emotional regulation skills are lacking, and all they know is that they need to remove themselves from the situation as quickly as possible. That child is not giving their mother a hard time; that child is having a hard time.
Judgmental and disapproving looks from strangers. Unsolicited advice about putting your child on special diets or using essential oils to "cure" their disability. These are things many parents of children with different special needs go through. It can be very frustrating, overwhelming, and exhausting. In those moments, it's so easy to feel like you're alone in this and that nobody else can or will understand what it is you and your family go through. It's also so easy to think that you'll never get a break.
That's why Penny Williams, a mother and parenting ADHD instructor, author, and journalist, created the Happy Mama Retreat, a retreat designed just for moms of children with invisible disabilities. "Early on after my son's ADHD diagnosis, support came in the way of online connections with other moms with a similar parenting journey. We found each other through blogs and Facebook. Three of us kept saying how awesome it would be if a bunch of us could have a weekend together, just moms who understand what it's like to raise a challenging child," Penny told POPSUGAR about how the Happy Mama Retreat came to be. "So we decided to try it, planned a day of speakers, and then put the word out on Facebook. We had 40 moms at the first retreat, and we all left with a renewed energy and a feeling that we're not alone. That was in 2012, and I've been hosting the retreat annually ever since."
At the Happy Mama Retreat, moms experience a well-deserved and much-needed relaxing and rejuvenating weekend away with other mothers just like them. They're able to hear from wonderful speakers about how to better practice self-care and how to fit it into their busy and hectic lives. At the next retreat, which is happening April 12-14 in Montreat, NC, moms will hear from Rose Reif, a licensed counselor, about "Things Moms of Kids with Disabilities Do that Feel Helpful, but Are Actually Robbing Them of Joy and Energy."
Moms can expect to relax and have fun with group activities, like a wine social, painting class, and Pilates. There's also time set aside for moms to relax and recharge by themselves. "When we started this retreat, we though it was about education, being pampered, and relaxing," Penny explained. "But what the moms have shown me over the years is that it's about a sense of belonging and connection - its about the community of support. Yes, the respite is great, but it wouldn't be the same experience alone. We are truly stronger together."
The support mothers receive from attending the retreat continues long after it's over. "We have a closed Facebook group just for moms who have attended the retreat," Penny continued. "We're able to speak our truth there and get support without judgment. Many of the repeat mamas who live close geographically get together during the year as well. For those who embrace it, it's a family, a tribe." Keep reading to see photos of some of the past retreat's venues and also check out the venue for the upcoming Happy Mama Retreat in 2019.
This Dad Got Real About How "Easy" His Stay-at-Home Wife Has It, and He's Completely Right
Brad Kearns, a father of three, knows that as demanding as his job in human resources can be, his wife Sarah has a much harder gig: being a stay-at-home mom. In a Facebook post, he explained how "hard" his set-up is compared to Sarah's - frankly it's nothing to scoff at - but I'm pretty sure I can hear people everywhere cheering.
"Massive day at work today. We have our monthly senior leadership meeting," he wrote. "I have to travel for a five-hour round journey split by car and train. Then when I rock up I have to sit there all day and do important workie stuff and have big work conversations. It's exhausting."
He then proceeded to give his readers the rundown of what was on his wife's plate for the day. And yep, it's a ton of work.
"And what's my wife doing? Not much really," he explained. "All she has to do is get two boys up, dressed and fed whilst breastfeeding the third. Then no doubt they'll need to be taken outside or to a park to get all that energy out. How easy is that. All she has to do is sort their bags out, find the hats, pack some snacks and a spare change of clothes, and buckle them into the car."
"Then whilst trying to get them to rest she'll jump online and do some online shopping. Groceries . . . what a life."
But that's just the beginning of her morning. Like many other stay-at-home parents out there, the child-rearing falls mostly to her.
"Then while they're there she'll have to feed the baby again cause that's what he does," said Brad. "Without letting go of him she'll have to interact with and help the others on and off swings and stimulate them enough to not get bored. It's easy really. They'll come home where she'll sort their lunch out. They probably won't eat it. Then whilst trying to get them to rest she'll jump online and do some online shopping. Groceries . . . what a life. As if you wouldn't just go to [the grocery store] with three kids on your own."
Sadly for Sarah, the afternoon doesn't look any less busy.
"No doubt in the afternoon they'll be demanding to ride their bikes, scooters, go-karts, and run around out the back," he said. "She'll probably just sit around and feed Teddy again. At 4 p.m. they'll start getting tired again and get grumpy. She'll fight with them about stupid little things like 'don't hit your brother.'"
And it's not like the couple's three boys are the only thing Sarah worries about. She tries to check in with her husband every once in a while as well.
"At 5 she'll want to know where I'm at and how I'm tracking," he said. "Groceries are about to be delivered and the boys are going crazy. Teddy needs to be held and she has to feed them and begin night routine. I'll probably reply with a 'call you back' message cause I'm busy as f*ck."
Next up? Dinner time for the kids, of course. And obviously, all of the responsibility falls squarely on Sarah's shoulders.
"She'll prepare their dinner, watch them eat, run their bath and dress them for bed all in an hour with one hand cause she still holding Teddy," he said. "Exhausted from non-stop torment and not a second to herself all day she'll call me again to see where I'm at. She'll be tired, smelly frustrated and sick of being touched. She'll be irritable, yucky, and want nothing more than a shower, a shampoo, and a hot cup of tea."
By the time Brad walks in the door, no doubt Sarah will be exhausted. And you know what that means? He may even have to cook his own dinner.
"I'll strut into the house at 7:30 after my massive day," wrote Brad. "She'll be just chilling on her phone near a toddler or babies cot because they struggling to go to sleep and I bet the groceries are still out because she managed to just get the fridge stuff packed away. I'll probably have to even prepare our dinner. On the weekend she'll tell Knox he has a motorbike because 'daddy works very hard for our family.' Like I said; today's a massive day for me."
Goop's Annual Gift Guide Includes a Custom Lullaby Recording For - Wait, How Much?
Goop's annual gift guide is always fun to explore, and yes, even the brand itself admits some of the products are "ridiculous but awesome." One such gift that could qualify is this Custom Lullaby Recording for babies. It's quite adorable: a British singer-songwriter named Lotte Mullan will write a lullaby based on information and treasured moments you share about your baby, plus what kind of mood you're going for - a relaxing ballad or something more upbeat. The catch is, it'll set you back $600.
Keep in mind you'll receive the lullaby in the form of a download that can be played forever, and the printout of the lyrics with your customized title - "Erin's Lullaby" - is pretty cute. This could be a great way to go in on a group gift for any friends who've recently had a baby, too! The acoustic song is professionally recorded and mixed in Lotte's London studio, and you can also contact the songwriter for any preferences. See more photos of the lullaby gift ahead to get a better visual, and then peruse lots more affordable gift options for kids.
Dear Candy Canes, as a Parent, I Seriously Hate You
Dear Candy Canes,
You know the famous tale about how the Grinch stole Christmas? Well, I think it was actually you. I mean, first of all, just look at you. You put on such a front. You're so nicely wrapped and packaged that no one would ever think you'd cause such misery. You hang so nicely from Christmas tree branches, over the tops of stockings, and are the perfect finishing touch to any holiday present. You smell good. You come in an assortment of colors - the traditional red and white peppermint is my personal favorite - and (mostly good) flavors. And you're, I'll admit, delicious. Yes, you are the quintessential holiday symbol and treat. But while you scream holiday cheer, you put parents everywhere into a state of madness. And I mean madness.
How many parents have found remnants of you in the most unusual spots in their homes? After a seemingly innocent trip to the mall to meet Santa Claus or a family gathering with generous aunts and uncles, your sweet treats get sucked on for a few minutes before they're dropped or forgotten. I can't tell you how many old, nasty pieces of you I've found in the back of our car during the holiday season (and in the months after). I basically have to pry you off my kids' car seats with pliers for crying out loud! I've found you in their beds (sneaky little stinkers) and the worst place of all, the dryer. Yes, somehow the remnants of you made it through the wash cycle and into the dryer, only to be smudged all over my son's jeans, ruining the rest of that load of laundry.
Thanks a lot.
Did I mention the stickiness? DID I?! Parents of toddlers everywhere loathe the site of you, you red-and-white-striped holiday cheer stealer. Instead of our sweet children calmly enjoying you as a treat, we're left chasing them around and wiping their fingers and mouths at all times making sure they don't touch Aunt Suzy's new white couch. And parents all know that having a daughter takes things to a whole different level. My daughter has gotten many of you caught in her hair. It takes forever to get you out without cutting her beautiful locks! So. Much. Screaming.
So, candy canes, while you may look nice, you definitely belong on the naughty list. You're a hindrance to our holiday cheer. No, you're a holiday cheer bandit. If you can somehow get a hold of all of your sticky behavior, maybe, just maybe, I'll let you enter my home again. But until then, you're staying the hell out of my kids' stockings, our Christmas tree, and my daughter's hair.
From,
The Grinchiest Mom Out There
The Boy Who Transformed Into "Bat Kid" 5 Years Ago in San Francisco Is Officially Cancer-Free
Miles Scott, the boy who played "Bat Kid" for the day in San Francisco five years ago with help from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, is officially cancer-free.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation gave an update on Miles on the fifth anniversary of his big day, and we're happy to hear it's all good news. "Now 10 years old and in fifth grade, Miles loves science and robotics," the nonprofit wrote on its website. "After fighting his own heroic battle with leukemia since he was a year old, Miles visits his oncologist once a year, and has been in remission from leukemia for the past five years."
If you don't remember, on Nov. 15, 2013, the city of San Francisco completely transformed into a real-life Gotham City thanks to the help of thousands of volunteers. Throughout the day, Miles got the chance to rescue a damsel in distress and take on evil villains like The Riddler with the help of local police officers.
Not only did the event mean the world to Miles and his family, but it also helped other children with pediatric cancer.
"We saw an increase in offers of help across all areas, including donations, volunteers, referrals, and other services," said a Make-A-Wish spokesperson. "In fact, the volume of traffic on our servers caused our system-wide websites to go down for several hours on the day of his wish."
Scroll through to get a bird's eye view of his perfect day in Gotham City five years ago.
Amy Schumer Gets Candid About Hyperemesis Gravidarum: "This Is Some Bullsh*t"
After announcing her pregnancy in late October, Amy Schumer disclosed she's suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, or severe morning sickness. The comedian was also forced to cancel several shows in Texas due to her condition. "I have hyperemesis and it blows. Very lucky to be pregnant but this is some bullsh*t," Amy said on Instagram.
The comedian shared that her HG symptoms worsened in her second trimester. "Baby's fine but everyone who says the second trimester is better is not telling the full story," she said. "I've been even more ill this trimester." Amy previously referenced her morning sickness with an ultrasound video of her energetic baby. "It has so much energy - that's why I'm puking every day," she wrote at the time.
Related: Is It Hyperemesis Gravidarum? A Tale of Pukage
While nausea is considered a standard pregnancy symptom, HG - which Kate Middleton also struggled with - is entirely different. In an interview with POPSUGAR, Sherry Ross, MD, an OB-GYN and women's health expert, said, "With HG, eating and drinking is a nightmare; the nausea and vomiting can become so severe it leads to weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, and even possible hospitalization."
Though there are no known causes, it may be caused by hormonal changes, psychological factors, or a blood sugar imbalance, among other things. Fortunately, Ross said HG symptoms tend to improve in the latter half of pregnancy.
I'm So Over Elf on the Shelf, but My Kids Aren't - Now What?
I never thought I would dread the return of my family's Elf on the Shelf. Since she arrived four years ago, "Mary Christmas," named by my now 7-year-old daughter, has always brought joy to my heart - mostly because she offers a new and much more effective threat for my often-misbehaving children.
For the rest of the year, I'll warn them that they'll lose their iPads or a play date if they continue to act like animals, and it barely seems to register before they go back to hitting each other or ignoring whatever task I'm imploring them to complete. But a mere "Mary's watching" and my little monsters straighten right up in impressive and speedy fashion. My connection to Santa, they obviously believe, is tenuous at best; she has a direct freaking line.
Four years in, I'm just super sick of moving that elf every damn night for a freaking month.
But this year, I'm less excited about the arrival of my former favorite holiday behavior-manipulation tool. In fact I'm feeling quite distressed about it, and I'm trying to figure out why. Is it because I'm sensing that my daughter's belief in Santa is wavering? And, let's face it: If she's questioning him, how is she not wondering if a plastic-and-plush toy is also a parent-driven hoax? Is it because of the very real threat that our 5-month-old puppy poses to an elf that very closely resembles a chew toy? Is it because I'm questioning whether our elf is more psychologically scarring than just a bit of holiday fun?
The truth is none of those things. Actually, four years in, I'm just super sick of moving that elf every damn night for a freaking month. It's not even that I get super clever with my elf placement. The one and only time I set up a creative elf scene - she'd gotten into some Trader Joe's Candy Cane Joe-Joe's and made a real mess – my daughter had a 7 a.m. meltdown because she was jealous that Mary the elf got to eat cookies for breakfast and she didn't. Instead, I stick to the basic spots. She moves from our tree to some garland to each and every light fixture and in a glass cabinet or two. Yet, even that takes work, especially of the mental variety, and isn't December stressful enough on a parent?!
God forbid that I should forget to move the elf and destroy my children's belief in her magic and therefore, in Santa's, and oh sh*t, I've ruined Christmas for them for life. It's all too much pressure on a parent who's also spending December searching eBay for a 10-year-old toy my son found on YouTube Kids, and wrapping that monstrosity; trying to convince my daughter that Santa doesn't get a discount on those $350 American Girl Airstream trailers, spaceships, and beauty parlors; attending every holiday school program and adults-only party (because we need alcohol to make it through to the new year, obviously); and trying to pack for a holiday getaway that apparently requires at least eight suitcases, one of which I'll have to subversively stuff our elf into because my kids are sure she doesn't return to the North Pole until Christmas Eve.
I'm tired just thinking about it. So yeah, I'm not looking forward to kicking off the Christmas madness by bringing out our Elf on the Shelf, although I know it's unavoidable. "When does our elf come back?" my sweet 4-year-old son asked me this morning. "Oh, usually after Thanksgiving," I told him, trying to keep the look of dread off my face. "I can't wait to see her again," he innocently replied, thawing my elf-hating heart. I guess my plan to replace her with the more mom-friendly Shiraz on the Shelf will have to wait a few more years. Until then, there will be Sauvignon Blanc in my fridge and a pesky elf sitting on top of it.
This Toddler Trying to Nurse a Push-Up Bra Is the Laugh You Need Right Now
Some babies love breastfeeding so much, they'll do just about anything to squeeze in a nursing session. One kiddo, for instance, was out shopping with her mom and happened upon a rack of nude bras, and . . . well . . . can you blame her for getting a bit confused?
"What are you doing?" a mom asked as her daughter began mouthing the cup of a push-up bra. "That's not me. There's no food in there!"
But the little girl didn't seem to care - she then began rubbing her face on the bra before her mom asked, "Emmie, where's the boobie?" And you bet she pointed to that 38C before giving it a big ol' chomp.
In case you needed proof why new moms often feel like they're just glorified milk machines, this is it!
Thanksgiving Foods Your Kids Will Actually Like (and Eat as Leftovers!)
Thanksgiving isn't exactly the most kid-focused holiday, as it includes lots of sitting still at a table, fancy foods, and adults taking over the television to watch football. But if you have a bunch of little ones populating your Thanksgiving table, you're probably thinking about how to please their palates as well. No one wants to spend all day in the kitchen only to have half their guests leave hungry (or request they whip them up a batch of hot dogs).
We have the solution with the following 17 kid-friendly, adult-approved recipes, all perfect for making sure your Thanksgiving feast is enjoyed by everyone.
Winnie the Pooh Cuddled a Boy With Special Needs For 10 Minutes at Disney World, and Oh, My Heart
A video of a Winnie the Pooh at Disney World is going viral for the absolute best reason. Jessie Barber and her wife, Allison, were with their 18-month-old son, who has cerebral palsy, at the Crystal Palace's character breakfast in Magic Kingdom when Pooh walked up to the boy and began fussing over him. For over 10 minutes, Pooh held hands with the boy, gave him Eskimo kisses, and stroked his hair - and the video Jessie took of it all going down is so damn sweet.
"For those of you who have disabled children [you] know the feeling when people look but aren't sure how to interact with your kiddo. This Winnie the Pooh melted my heart and knew exactly what to do!" Jessie wrote on Facebook under the video of Allison holding their son as he engaged with Pooh. "He spent 10+ minutes with our little guy and he loved every second of it. Thank you Pooh!"
jeudi 15 novembre 2018
Warning: These 55 Yankee Gift Swap Presents Are So Good, Everyone Will Be Fighting Over Them
For the fun, the wild, and the completely outrageous Yankee swaps going on this holiday season, these gifts are sure to take the cake for some of the most creative and wacky gifts in the game.
Cat calendars, bottle stopper gardening kits, and sloth-shaped mugs make these swap gifts range from totally creative to weirdly lovable.
We're sure you'll find exactly what you need for all of the quirky swaps you have this season. Shop them ahead!
7 Ways to Give Back and Make an Impact on Thanksgiving
As satisfying as a warm plate of roast turkey might be, nothing fills the heart up more on Thanksgiving than a newfound sense of gratitude and appreciation. And while that tenderness can stem from reminiscing with loved ones over a bountiful feast, it can also arise from giving back. If you're seeking meaningful ways to volunteer and/or donate over this holiday, here are a few ideas on how to get involved.
20 Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Sides the Whole Table Will Love
Chances are, you have a lot on your plate on Thanksgiving - literally and figuratively. With gravy bubbling on the stove, pie baking in the oven, and dozens of people milling about the kitchen, there's a ton to do before dinner makes it to the table. Here's an array of fast, simple, and delicious Thanksgiving sides that don't skimp on flavor or fun - because you deserve to enjoy a feast that's both restaurant-worthy and stress-free.
Heads Up, Holiday Shoppers: Ikea Has Some Amazing Holiday Gifts - Starting at $2!
Holiday shopping just got a lot easier this year, thanks to Ikea. With prices as low as $2 and $3 for tasteful holiday presents for even the hardest to shop for, everyone on your list will be floored by these affordable gifts. Check out trinkets, room decor, and functional pieces for any part of the house. This festive season, don't just stock up on holiday decor at Ikea, check off your gift list as well!
Related: Ikea Is Offering a New (Assembly-Free!) Toy Line This Fall, Just in Time For Holiday Gifting
Cinnamon Chocolate Milanos Will Make You Feel All Warm and Fuzzy This Winter
If the endless stream of hot cocoa products didn't tip you off already, the holidays are steadily approaching. Never a brand to sit out the festive season, Pepperidge Farm recently introduced a new cinnamon chocolate version of its Milano cookies. The cozy snack is already getting pretty positive reviews, too, with one shopper saying it tastes like a "fancy snickerdoodle" and another comparing it to Cinnamon Toast Crunch. After hearing that, we're sold! See pictures of the holiday cookies ahead.
You'll Want to Send These Cute Christmas Pajamas For Dogs to Everyone You Know
The holidays are all about spending quality time with family, preferably while cuddling in front of a crackling fire and holding a warm cup of cocoa. The only thing missing? A new pair of cozy holiday-themed pajamas, specifically one that fits the most snuggly member of your family: your dog. We've tracked down 30 of the cutest, silliest, and most Christmas-spirited puppy pajamas around. From pairs featuring your favorite characters from the big and little screens to styles that match your four-legged child's human siblings, these dog jammies are perfect for photo ops, at Christmas parties, or just to wear while waiting to see if Santa brings that chew toy at the top of their wish list.
12 Beautiful Holiday Wreaths No One Will Ever Guess You Bought on Amazon
If you're on the hunt for a pretty wreath to display in your home this year, we did the hard work for you and shopped the best picks on Amazon. From LED light-up choices to pieces you can make on your own, we found it all. The best part: they're all delivered right to your doorstep. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
Formerly Discontinued Banana Nut Cheerios Are Back by Popular Demand - They're THAT Good
If you want some good news, you're in the right place! Banana Nut Cheerios are finally returning after being discontinued, so get your bowls and spoons ready. General Mills must have heard everyone's pleas to bring back one of the best Cheerio flavors of all time, and the company is about to make a whole lot of people happy. A spokesperson confirmed that the flavor will hit grocery store shelves across the country starting the week of Nov. 14 for $4 per box, so keep your eyes peeled. The gluten-free Banana Nut Cheerios are made with real banana puree and cinnamon, and they sound even dreamier than we remember. Between this and new Sour Patch Kids cereal, it's a great day to be a cereal-lover.
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