Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 24 décembre 2018
If Merriam-Webster's Word of the Year Comes as a Surprise, You Haven't Been Paying Attention
Merriam-Webster announced its timely Word of the Year: justice. Defined by the dictionary as the "conformity to truth, fact, or reason," among others, searches for the word were reportedly up 74 percent this year on the Merriam-Webster website. Beyond statistical reasoning, however, the word relates to significant events and headlines in 2018.
For starters, there's the ongoing investigation, led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, into the 2016 presidential election and interference from Russia. Another relevant event that comes to mind is the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing concerning the sexual assault allegations made against now-Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. As the world watched on Sept. 27, the tense hearing saw testimonies from both parties and impassioned bipartisan debates.
Related: Google Released Its Annual Year-in-Search Video, and My Tear Ducts Are Already Exhausted
In addition to "justice," Merriam-Webster's other prominent words for the year include "nationalism," a word with racist and xenophobic connotations that was used by President Donald Trump at an Oct. 22 rally in Texas, and "pansexual," which Janelle Monáe used to describe her sexual orientation in an interview with Rolling Stone. Meanwhile, the words "respect," "maverick," and "excelsior" are also on the list, as they relate to three prominent figures who passed away this year: Aretha Franklin, John McCain, and Stan Lee.
Merriam-Webster's previous Word of the Year for 2017 was "feminism," which was shaped by the historic Women's March at the start of the year, as well as the #MeToo movement and pop culture releases like The Handmaid's Tale and Wonder Woman.
20 Frugal Gifts For the Savvy Traveler - $25 and Under!
Every traveling expert needs an arsenal of products to make the journey smoother. If you're stuck on what to get your friend or family member who loves to travel, then read on for some of these gift ideas!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
103 Gifts Your Best Friend Will Obsess Over in 2018
Best friends are like soulmates. They are there for you when you laugh and cry, and they want to know if their outfit looks stupid. She will agree with you when your SO is a jerk and be your wingwoman when it's time to look for someone new. Basically, BFFs are your everything and you would be nonfunctional without them. That being said, anytime is the perfect time to show your girlfriends how much you love them. We have compiled an ultimate gift guide for giving the best present ever to your best friend - in order of price, from $4 to $1,790. She'll obsess over these cute surprises.
The 12 Best Carry-On Bags to Help Your Survive the Dreaded Holiday Travel Season
Ready or not, here come the holidays! The airports and train stations are busier than ever at this time of year, with people rushing home to their families or off on some fabulous vacation. Wherever you're heading this season, be prepared with a great carry-on. If you pack properly, one bag is all you need, so make sure it's one of these chic, high-quality finds.
20 Gifts Your 20-Something Boyfriend Will Love
Giving presents to your significant other can be a real stressor, that's why we're here to be your holiday shopping spirit guide. Take a deep breath and open your Internet browser; it's never too early to begin holiday shopping. If you've got a boyfriend in his 20s, we have a whole guide of gifts perfect for your man. Check out all 20 of the foolproof options.
22 Mermaid Gifts For Aspiring Ariels
As an ode to the wave-riding girl who gave us an obsession with fins, we found tons of incredible mermaid-inspired gifts that will impress Ariel-lovers more than a dinglehopper. Check out all of these awesome gifts for your BFFs . . . or yourself.
These Presents Will Be on Everyone's Wish List This Year Because They Are Just That Good
Looking for the hottest Christmas gifts this year? Well, look no further, because we found each and every one of them. With gifts for everyone on your list - from kids to boyfriends - these presents will make holiday shopping easier than ever before.
Check out the most popular gifts this year, and be sure to save some room on your wish list, too.
- Additional reporting Macy Cate Williams, Krista Jones, Rebecca Brown, Alessia Santoro, and India Yaffe.
100 Genius Gifts So Good, You'll Never Guess They Cost Under $100
If you're on a time crunch this year, that doesn't mean you need to sacrifice on getting your loved ones impressive gifts. We went on a mission to hunt down the best presents on the internet. Ahead, you'll find 100 seriously good presents you might be tempted to keep for yourself. The best part: they're all under $100. So what are you waiting for? Shop our favorites before they're gone.
100+ Funny White Elephant Gifts That Will Leave Everyone Laughing Hard This Holiday Season
The pressure is on! White elephant gift exchanges are an ideal excuse to sit around with your friends and have a good laugh. If you want to bring the most hilarious present to the group, we've got you covered. These clever choices will have your buds cracking up all season long. Shop through these popular picks before they sell out. Be sure to check everyone off your list with the perfect gifts this year, including even more funny gifts, best tech gifts for him, and best gifts for those dads that already have everything.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano, Krista Jones, Rebecca Brown, and Tara Block
Amazon's Got the Coolest Products of 2019 - Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
If you're the person who's out here making the trends, this is for you. Let all your friends know what's going to be buzzing in 2019; these products are cool, current, and actually practical. From the latest in fitness trackers to smart home technology and gadgets galore, this is what we're going to be crushing on in 2019.
These 18 Amazon Gifts Are Under $25, but They're So Cool, You'll Think We're Lying
Getting a brilliant gift doesn't mean you have to save money for months in advance. All you have to do is shop smart. Luckily, we're experts in that category, so we sifted through Amazon to find you the coolest options under $25. Take a look and purchase them soon; the holidays are closing in on us!
11 Unbelievably Chic Home Decor Items You'll Never Guess Cost Under $50 on Amazon
If you feel like your home could use a little pick-me-up this new year, but you're on a budget, we have the perfect solution for you. Instead of overspending on a total revamp, try sprucing up your space with a couple cute home decor items from Amazon. We scoured its site and uncovered its most stylish pieces that cost less than $50. The best part: they'll be delivered right to your door. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
With These 15+ Affordable Gifts, No One Will Know You Waited Until the Last Minute
Look, we get it, sometimes life takes over and holiday shopping goes on the back burner. But, you don't want to be the only one who shows up empty-handed. If you're an Amazon Prime member, these gifts can be at your door in just two days. And, as if it couldn't get better, these presents are all under $50, so go ahead and gift!
25 Incredible Gifts on Amazon - For $25 or Less
Shopping on a budget during the holidays can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. We looked to Amazon because the retailer carries just about everything you could ever dream of and tons of incredible finds at affordable prices. We did the hard work and curated a list of its 25 hottest gifts that cost $25 or less. The best part: you can skip crowded store shopping because it's delivered right to your door. Take a look at our top picks.
40 Festive Holiday Gifts From Trader Joe's - and They're All Under $10!
The holiday season, as twinkly and jubilant as it is, can be a real budget buster. All the yuletiding, festive gatherings, and thoughtful shopping can be a serious stretch, both time- and money-wise. Trader Joe's is already a thrifty choice for groceries, of course, but it's definitely nailed the definition of one-stop shop with its holiday selection this year. Dominating the festive and frugal game, there are options for seemingly everyone in your life: the kiddos, fine-food aficionados, booze enjoyers, and of course, the chocolate appreciators. With all the holiday "mixed swag" in store, Trader Joe's seems to just get us. A bold statement, but TJ's just may very well be our holiday shopping spirit animal.
The chocolate-covered everything beckons, people . . . and it's not gonna gift itself. You may find yourself gallivanting through grab-bag heaven in the gift-decked aisles, and that's encouraged. Good luck choosing, though, as the selection is merrily abundant. Shopping at TJ's infuses joy on the regular, so it's no surprise that during the holiday season it's downright dripping in it. And for this, we are not mad. So get your shopping vibes going with these 40 holiday gifts from Trader Joe's. They've turned time-crunch gifting into an art, and us into holiday rock stars.
Oh, and did we mention there's not a thing over $10? Boom.
26 Cute Stocking Stuffers That Put Presents Under the Tree to Shame - All $10 or Less!
Stocking stuffers shouldn't empty out your bank account; they should be affordable. If you have a friend or family member who loves little goodies, there are plenty of cute items out there with price tags that will give you a sigh of relief. We rounded up our favorite options, all for $10 or less. Filling up a stocking has never been this easy!
21 Unique Gifts That Will Leave Recipients Saying, "Wow, You're So Thoughtful!"
When you're buying a gift for somebody you care about, don't go the generic route. The best way to show someone you put thought into a present is by finding something unique to give them. There are so many innovative products out there that will blow your mind. Whether the recipient is a techie, couch potato, world traveler, kitchen connoisseur, or avid reader, we've got items that will thrill them. These gifts are perfect for holidays and birthdays, plus they work for all ages. Basically, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. Get to shopping now so you're prepared!
50 Genius Gifts For Men on Amazon - Under $50
Treating the guy in your life to the perfect present isn't always easy, especially if you're shopping on a budget. This year, you don't have to worry, because we turned to Amazon and curated a list of the 50 best gifts for him that you can find for under $50. From hilarious socks to wine-themed picks and even a toilet night light (because who doesn't need that?), all our picks are so affordable, maybe you can get him two things. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
20 Frugal Gifts For the Savvy Traveler - $25 and Under!
Every traveling expert needs an arsenal of products to make the journey smoother. If you're stuck on what to get your friend or family member who loves to travel, then read on for some of these gift ideas!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
The Ultimate Under-$100 Gift Guide For College Students
In no time flat, college students will be rushing home in hoards to enjoy home-cooked meals and their old squeaky twin beds for the holiday season. Make sure you get those undergrads the perfect gift for Christmas so that they can go back to school feeling totally prepared. We rounded up the best gifts for under $100 so that your student will give you an A+ when it comes to gift giving.
65+ Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers So Genius, You'll Be Shocked They're All on Amazon
It's crunch time, people! The holidays are fast approaching, so you need to get that present shopping done now. If you haven't stuffed the stockings yet, we have plenty of genius gift ideas from Amazon. Check them out and add everything to your cart before it's too late.
Related: 31 Last-Minute Gifts Under $50 So Good, You'll Stop Freaking Out About Shopping Late
27 Top Gifts For Men That Are Selling Like Nobody's Business in 2018
Don't panic. You might not have presents for the men in your life yet, but we're here to help. Whether your dude is an outdoorsman, businessman, or funny guy, we've got for every type of person. We uncovered the top presents customers are loving this year so you know exactly what to get. These picks are flying off the shelves, so don't procrastinate. Order these products fast!
And just in case you need the best gifts for her here they are!
The 33 Hottest Gifts For Men Are So Good, Retailers Can Hardly Keep Them in Stock
As editors, we are constantly tracking down the trending gifts readers should know about. Whether it's a bestseller or just plain genius, you can count on us when it comes to present ideas for the man in your life. Whether you're searching for a husband, boyfriend, dad, brother, uncle, or anyone in between, there's certainly something online he'll be thrilled to receive. We curated a list of the hottest gifts you can purchase, but hurry - they're selling like crazy. See for yourself!
16 Cool Amazon Products That Will Change Your Life - All Under $30
Amazon is a truly magical one-stop-shop for everything imaginable. Though most people head to the site for everyday needs, there are some really useful and unique products we bet you never even knew existed. We've rounded up our favorite items - all under $30 - that are equal parts practical and fun. We bet they'll change your life!
21 Cool Tech Gifts Anyone Would Be Thrilled to Receive This Holiday Season
When it comes to rising gift trends, we're seeing a big focus on tech products that will make your life easier. Whether that means giving you time back in your day or keeping things all in one place, products are being designed to make the user's day better. We curated a list of the most gift-worthy releases anyone on your list would be excited to get for the holidays. Shop through these genius gadgets.
14 Skincare Gifts They'll Freak Over - For Less Than $25
This holiday, you can treat your skincare-loving friend to all their favorite products on a budget (so you can check off everyone else on your list, too). We uncovered a handful of worthy picks from brands like Drunk Elephant, Tatcha, and Mario Badescu, but be careful shopping; you might end up wanting a few for yourself. The best part: they're all under $25. Shop our top picks ahead.
14 New Year's Beauty Resolutions That Are Easier Than You Think
New Year's Eve is quickly approaching, which means resolution season is upon us. I know I am more than guilty of being overly ambitious when it comes to setting goals for myself. I either try to do too many things or try to achieve a few very difficult things. But because they're usually not feasible, I end up disappointing myself pretty early in the new year. However, I think 2019 is going to be different. I've put together 14 beauty resolutions that are easily attainable - and sustainable throughout the rest of the year!
19 Stocking Stuffers From Black-Owned Beauty Brands
There's no better time of year to support black beauty businesses than gift-giving season. Whether you're shopping for yourself or shopping for a loved one, these hair, skin, and makeup companies make some of the most adorable stocking stuffers - and lots of them are made with natural ingredients. Here are a few of our favorites.
Why You Should Care About "Blue Beauty" Just as Much as Green Beauty
No doubt you've seen an abundance of dialogue about "green beauty," but we bet you've not heard the phrase "blue beauty" before. However, it's just as important.
It's time we took a long, hard look at the way we consume beauty in an effort to help protect our oceans. The recent banning of plastic beads in products and many companies getting rid of plastic straws has shone a light on the need for this, but is there more that can be done? Jillian Wright, founder of the Indie Beauty Expo, thinks so. The Indie Beauty Expo is a platform that allows small brands to showcase their products and their ethos. This gives Wright a firsthand look at upcoming trends, industry insights, and knowledge of how brands are becoming more "natural" and environmentally friendly. While speaking to Wright about all things indie, she also introduced us to the concept of blue beauty, and we quizzed her on everything we all need to know.
"Conscious beauty is not a trend, it's a movement."
What Is Blue Beauty?
"Project blue beauty" was spearheaded by the founder of Beauty Hereos, Jeannie Jarnot, in an effort to create a better and bluer planet. Jarnot and Kapua Browning, the founder of Honua, hosted a beach clean up in Oahu, Hawaii, which resulted in a collection of a staggering 700 pounds of plastic. During this time, Hawaii banned two widely used sunscreen chemicals - oxybenzone and octinoxate - in an effort to help the oceans. Wright explained that, "blue beauty specifically supports ocean conservation, using reef safe ingredients and moving towards zero-waste packaging, or packaging that is virtually plastic free."
How Does Blue Beauty Differ From Green Beauty?
Wright says that the thought behind the two is very similar and aims to educate consumers about the effects products have not only on their bodies but on the planet, too. "Green beauty is about the transparency of ingredients, where these ingredients are sourced, how they are harvested, manufactured, what resources are used to produce the formulas, how it is packaged and distributed," she said. Blue beauty is a segment of this, but is more concerned with the oceans' well-being and preservation.
How Do Beauty Products Contribute to These Environmental Risks?
You might be wondering how exactly products are harmful to oceans. Firstly, it's all down to the packaging. Wasteful and unnecessary packaging is unlikely to be recyclable and will eventually end up in the ocean, damaging the ecosystem of the sea and the animals that inhabit it. As well as this, Wright notes that a number of common chemicals are known to be harmful to marine ecosystems. Often found in sunscreen, chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate are said to be contributing to coral bleaching when worn while swimming in the ocean (though they are by no means the only culprits).
"Everyone has to make their own choices, but choices being the operative word; we have choice."
However, this does not mean anyone should not stop using sunscreen - our bodies are precious, too. If your dilemma is either using oxybenzone or nothing at all, always choose the sunscreen. That said, if you'd like to consciously make the effort to buy products without these chemicals, there are options. When it comes to buying an ocean-safe sun protector, the key is considering chemical versus mineral sunscreen. Chemical sunscreen contains ingredients such as oxybenzone and when in contact with water, can cause harm, whereas mineral or physical sunscreen is made up of active ingredients, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that don't pose such a risk.
What Are Brands Doing to Protect Our Ecosystems and Oceans?
Wright says that brands need to consider a number of factors. "If you think about the life cycle of a product from start to finish, you will realize how important it is for brands to be aware of the impact it might have on our oceans," she said. "From growing and harvesting to using additive ingredients like emulsifiers and preservatives to production and filling to packaging to usage, and then finally, when someone throws the bottle away. When producing a formula, how much water does it require? Are the ingredients polluting our waterways? What's happening when we apply it onto our skin, then wash it off? What's happening with the plastic components? Are they properly being recycled or thrown away?" There is a lot to consider.
Brands such as Ethique create products that are made with compostable packaging in an effort to reduce the number of shampoo and conditioner bottles that end up in landfills and oceans. And Love Sun Body and Babo Botanicals only include chemicals deemed to be "reef safe" in their sunscreens.
"Everyone has to make their own choices, but 'choices' being the operative word; we have choice," Wright said. If you have the privilege financially to make these choices, you can do your part to save the planet. "Conscious beauty is not a trend, it's a movement," she said. "Your personal care is driven by awareness and intelligence, and there is always room for more people to join in this conversation. You hold the power in the way you spend your money, so spend it on brands that do good."
Ahead, shop some of our favorite beauty products that are blue beauty safe.
The Gross Reason You Might Want to Reconsider Using a Sheet Mask During a Flight
Using sheet masks on long-haul flights has become common beauty practice for those dedicated to their hydration game. But what if we were to tell you the not-so-good news that this might not actually be as effective as you'd hoped? It's due to one thing: hygiene. Dr. Tatiana Lapa, medical doctor and managing director of Dr. Tatiana Aesthetic Clinics, explains to us why sheet masks may be unhygienic on board and how to maintain moisture without the breakouts.
But before delving into the topic of hygiene, let's discuss the basics. Why does the skin get so sucked of moisture when flying? "During a long-haul flight, the air pressure is lower than at normal sea level. In fact, it is equivalent to being 2,500 meters above sea level. The significantly lower air pressure acts like a vacuum on the skin and sucks moisture out of your epidermis (the top layer of skin)." But it's not only dehydration the skin is at risk of. "Add to this the germ-rich cabin environment of recirculated air and tightly packed passengers, and the skin is at higher risk of both dehydration and breakouts," Dr. Lapa explains.
Now for the actual sheet mask part. Dr. Lapa says that using one does actually have benefits when it comes to keeping the skin hydrated; however, you must consider germs before and during application. She suggests cleaning hands before use (a no-brainer, but a biggie) and only keeping the mask on for 20-30 minutes. Using unwashed hands or leaving the mask on for too long can lead to potentially worsening breakouts as "the moist, nutrient-rich environment of sheet masks can assist the spread of bacteria on the skin."
So what if you want both moisture and to reduce a breakout? Dr. Lapa recommends applying a seal with a blemish cream to any pimples before applying a sheet mask. Or if you've decided that wearing a sheet mask on board just isn't your bag, she recommends keeping a soothing recovery cream in your beauty travel essentials instead.
I Took ACV Every Day For 1 Week and These 3 Magical Things Happened
Super-adventurous would never be two words that describe me. Skydiving will never be on my bucket list and I never use hot sauce on my food - ever! But in the name of my physical and mental health, I'm into trying just about anything. I tried CrossFit for a year (and I'm still at it!), and I also committed to drinking a gallon of water a day for three weeks (spoiler alert: there were LOTS of trips to the bathroom).
One simple thing I've never tried is taking apple cider vinegar (ACV). I've heard about the possible weight-loss benefits and the fact that it's rich in vitamins E, A, and P and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and calcium. It can also improve digestion and boost immunity. But I am not a vinegar person. The smell alone kept me from it - until now.
A yoga friend mentioned that she takes ACV with fresh lemon juice in her water. She assured me that "it just tastes salty, not super vinegary." I decided to give it a try and commit to drinking a glass once a day for a week. It seemed easy enough to incorporate into my day without a huge commitment.
I filled up a 20-ounce mason jar with water - I usually prefer cold water, but warm water was great on a chilly day. I poured in one tablespoon of ACV (I went for raw, unpasteurized, and organic) and squeezed in the juice from one-quarter of a lemon.
The taste? I could still smell the vinegar slightly, so it definitely tasted a tad sharp and tangy, but not as pungent as I was expecting. It was like a slightly salty lemonade. The fresh lemon juice was key - I ran out of lemons one day, and drinking ACV in plain water was pretty tough to swallow.
What Happened?
I do intermittent fasting in the morning, so I drank my ACV lemon-water in the afternoon or after dinner. I found that the flavor grew on me. I thought drinking it every day would be a chore, but I started to look forward to it.
I found that I really enjoyed the ritual of sipping on my special ACV "cocktail." You see, the only beverages I drink are water, herbal tea, and the occasional black coffee, so this felt a little like a treat - but it was actually a treat for my body.
This ACV lemon water satiated my appetite more than plain old water, which helped curb my desire to nosh after dinner. It also satisfied my need for something sweet, so I wasn't craving a bit of chocolate either. I was shocked at how one tablespoon of ACV could have this much of an effect! This must be why people say ACV can help with weight loss - it fills you up so you eat fewer daily calories.
Will I Keep Going?
Yes! I may not drink it every single day, but I'm hooked. Aside from feeling satiated after lunch or dinner, I also enjoyed sipping on something besides water and found that it offered me a sense of ease and calmness. As an added bonus, my digestion was great all week. No bloating or constipation - just a happy tummy.
If you've contemplated trying ACV, give it a try! It could curb your appetite, make you feel calmer, and ease your digestion, too. If you're worried about the vinegary flavor, try this blueberry banana ACV weight-loss smoothie - you can't taste it at all, but you'll still reap all the health benefits - or make this ACV salad dressing for your greens.
I really thought I'd feel absolutely nothing after a week, but I'm glad I was wrong. My bottle is almost empty, so it looks like I know what I'll be adding to my grocery list!
If You're Drinking Water in the Morning to Boost Your Metabolism, Think Again
If you're trying to boost your metabolism to burn more calories and lose weight quicker, you've probably heard that you should drink water first thing in the morning. Curious as to whether or not drinking water upon waking up could drastically impact our metabolism, POPSUGAR spoke with Sarah Greenfield, RD, CSSD, the director of nutrition at HUM, and Alex Caspero, MA, RD, CLT, RYT, a HUM nutritionist. "A quicker metabolism means your body is able to process energy or calories more efficiently. When you can process energy efficiently, less is stored in your body and more is used to fuel the body," Sarah told POPSUGAR.
When it comes to drinking water for that added boost, Sarah said, "It may help you cut out some additional calories throughout your day, but it will not help you burn more calories." According to Alex, water doesn't provide any energy and therefore will not affect your metabolism. Sarah said that drinking water in the morning can help you stay more hydrated and be in touch with both your hunger and satiety cues, but that's about it.
The best way to boost your metabolism is to increase your muscle mass, said Sarah. Alex agreed, stating that the best thing you can do to boost your metabolism is to exercise. "Muscle cells are more metabolically active than fat. What that means is your body will be burning more calories at rest the more muscle mass it has," Sarah explained. The leaner body tissue (muscle mass) you have in your body, the more you're able to burn calories without having to do anything, Alex said. "That means that adding more muscle can increase your resting metabolic rate - how many calories you burn each day outside of activity."
So there you have it. If you're looking to really speed your metabolism, it's time to start picking up the weights. Here's a four-week beginner weightlifting plan to get you started.
The Holidays Aren't Always Happy - How to Handle Depression This Time of Year
The holiday season is supposed to be the happiest time of the year: cheery Christmas music playing everywhere you go, festive decorations on every block, holiday parties, traditions, and lots of tasty treats. But for some people, the holidays can trigger an onslaught of depressive symptoms.
Whether you struggle with depression year-round or just get blue this time of year, there are some ways you can combat these negative feelings. We spoke to mental health experts, who detailed the 11 best ways to combat holiday depression. If your mood continues to get worse or you experience any of these symptoms of depression for more than two weeks, it might be time to visit a doctor or mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or licensed therapist.
If you are depressed and need help finding help or resources, call the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264).
This Trainer Explains How to Do Intermittent Fasting For Fat Loss
Intermittent fasting, or IF, has become a popular way to lose weight. And while the program more about when you eat, not what you eat, you can still implement strategies for IF to make it work for you. On intermittent fasting, you time your meals to boost your weight-loss progress. This fasting period (usually a window of 12-16 hours of not eating) is supposed to boost growth hormone, regulate blood sugar, and put you in a weekly calorie deficit to torch fat and reach your goals.
But what is the best way to do intermittent fasting for weight loss? Although there are several ways to do IF, the most popular way is 16:8, or leangains, where you eat during an eight-hour window and fast for the other 16 hours. This may seem simple enough, but there are still logistics to figure out about when to time your workouts, what you are allowed to drink during your fasting window, and how much you should actually eat within the eight hours.
Personal trainer Max Weber, NASM, explained how intermittent fasting works and how you should implement it into your diet for best results. In an Instagram post, he used the example of a fasting window from before 12 noon and after eight p.m. Before your fasting window, you should only do light activity, eat no calories, and drink lots of water and other unsweetened beverages if you need them, such as black coffee. After the fasting window ends at eight p.m., you should continue to have no food or calories, drink lots of water, and get plenty of sleep.
During the eating window, you should still stick within your daily calorie and macronutrient target. You can eat as many or as few meals as you want during this window as long as you are sticking to your daily macros and calories. Max also suggested to exercise as close to your eating window as possible, so timing your workouts and when you can eat will have to be based on a schedule that works for you.
However, he notes that intermittent fasting is not mandatory for fat loss. It's just a program some people like to implement to regulate their insulin levels, boost weight loss, and stay on track with their meals. "You still need to be consuming fewer calories than you are burning each day to lose fat. IF might make this easier when dieting, so give it a shot and see!" Max wrote in his caption.
If you're considering trying intermittent fasting for weight loss, make sure you pick an eating window that works for your schedule and you continue to count calories or macros.
The 1 Thing That Floored Me When I Swapped Coffee For Green Tea For 1 Week
Drinking apple cider vinegar every day or doing a detox won't make a huge, permanent difference to the scale - I know there are no quick fixes when it comes to weight loss. So when I decided to drink green tea for a week instead of coffee, it wasn't because of the weight-loss benefits I've heard green tea can offer.
I decided to swap my cup of joe for green tea just to make sure I wasn't addicted to caffeine. A small cup of coffee offers about 65 milligrams, and a cup of green tea offers about 20 mg. Would I be OK with less caffeine? I know so many people who HAVE to have two or more cups of coffee in the morning, or they'll be cranky, exhausted, feel dizzy, or have headaches. I wanted to make sure that I wasn't dependent on my cup.
For a little background, I'm one of those weird people who didn't start drinking coffee until I was 40 years old. Although I know have about a year of coffee-drinking under my belt, I still wouldn't call myself a coffee drinker. There have been mornings when I completely forget to drink it, and when I'm immersed in writing, sometimes it takes me hours to finish a cup.
So skipping out on coffee didn't seem like it'd be a big deal at all. I wasn't missing out on the ritual of sipping on something warm because I still had a mug of hot tea to wrap my hands around. And I wasn't missing out on the taste because instead of my usual black coffee, I chose a green chai tea, so it had a similar robust flavor.
The entire week of passing on coffee, I still felt energized, alert, and peppy. But what shocked me was that for the first three days, I experienced a weird, dull headache that lasted all morning long. The rest of the week, my head felt fine. I was surprised (and disturbed!) that missing out on such a small amount of caffeine caused withdrawal symptoms. It kind of freaked me out!
Another benefit I noticed had to do with my belly. Since I do intermittent fasting, and drink my cup of coffee on an empty stomach, sometimes it can irritate my belly - but my stomach felt great all week on green tea.
While this little experiment won't make me give up coffee forever, experiencing how my body felt off coffee has inspired me to cut down a little bit. So this week, along with my package of coffee beans, I picked up some new and exciting flavors of tea to sip on a few mornings a week.
Thanks, but I Don't Want to Hear About Your Diet
I will walk away from a conversation if someone starts talking about their diet. If a friend tells me she's not eating carbs, I reply, "I don't care." I don't care if you are on keto, going Paleo, or doing intermittent fasting. Unless you miraculously lost weight by eating pizza and drinking piña coladas, I don't want to hear about your diet. Ever.
This doesn't mean I'm not happy for you. I support everyone's health journey, whether it's to feel better, lose weight, or achieve another goal. I understand that when trying to lose weight, it helps to share your successes and struggles with people who are going through the same thing. That's one reason that Weight Watchers remains wildly popular. I enjoy reading POPSUGAR's before-and-after weight-loss stories, which inspire and motivate me. If one person's weight-loss story can offer a service and inspire a reader, I'm all for it. But I choose to read those stories when I want to read them.
I don't want to be forced to hear about the ins and outs of someone else's diet, and as conversationalists, I think we can all do better.
In November 2013, NPR's This American Life ran an episode called "The Seven Things You're Not Supposed to Talk About," wherein producer Sarah Koenig's mother outlined seven things (including your diet) and why you shouldn't talk about them. The recurring theme? "Nobody cares" and "it's boring." I don't know this woman, but she's some kind of a hero to me.
That's how I feel about your diet. I do not care. I'm sure some people care. If so, they will probably ask questions like, "What do you think about that diet?" or "What's it like to do a juice cleanse?" I will never ask you those questions, which means I don't want to hear the answer. (I don't want to hear about your diet on social media either, but I can choose to ignore those posts.)
I especially don't want to hear about what you can or cannot eat on your diet, which is a favorite topic of dieters. Over the past couple of years, the keto diet in particular has skyrocketed in popularity, along with intermittent fasting and the Paleo diet before that. All three diets have complicated rules about what you can and can't eat or when you can eat it. CrossFit devotees, like my colleague Jenny Sugar, will joke that the first rule of CrossFit is talking incessantly about CrossFit, and the same could be said for many diets. I'm sure that being immersed in a diet's details and rules can be time-consuming, but it doesn't need to be all-consuming.
If I want to know what I can and can't eat on the keto diet, I can google it. In social situations, I'd rather hear someone tell a story that's going to make me laugh. I'd rather hear about a movie you saw, a book you read, a place you visited, a date you went on - anything that tells me something about who you are. Anyone can go on a diet.
My aversion to diet talk begins with "it's boring," but it doesn't end there. We all come at healthy living in different ways. We all choose, at different times, to eat healthy, to indulge, to quit drinking, to drink too much, to exercise regularly, or to slack off for a little while. If you aren't in a dieting mindset, hearing someone talk about dieting is particularly annoying. Not to mention that many social situations take place over food or drinks. If I'm choosing to enjoy a piece of cake, I don't want to hear about how you are choosing not to.
Whether you intend it or not, talking endlessly about your diet can feel like shaming to people forced to listen. Maybe you want to lose five pounds, but the person you are talking to has been struggling to lose 20. Rather than motivate them, your diet talk is probably going to have the opposite effect. Even worse, you might come across as trying to sell them on the diet because you think they need it. Next time you feel the need to talk about what you can't eat on your diet, stop to consider that it could be interpreted as bragging about your willpower to someone who is having a rough time.
As humans, we have so many unique experiences to share that are so much more interesting to talk about. We are more than our diets. Let's talk about something else.
I Got Strong Instead of Skinny, and I've Never Been Happier
For most of my teenage years and early 20s, I considered a "great body" to be skinny with thin legs and a booty that was on the smaller, flatter end. I thought my bigger bubble butt was too large for my small frame on top, and I desperately wanted to hide my curves that are now much more embraced, even sought after, in today's world. I'd wear larger tops to conceal my butt, and I'd always feel a little self-conscious when I had to wear shorts, a bikini, or tighter dresses. I've always been a pretty confident person, but there was a piece missing: I couldn't overcome my obsession with how my body looked on a daily basis.
Because I wanted to drop those pounds and look like other people at my school who had skinnier bodies, I developed an unhealthy eating style that persisted for a few years. Cycling through various eating disorders, chronic food guilt, and a compulsive need to think so critically before making food choices, I suffered emotionally all the damn time. I'd plan what I would eat from a restaurant menu a day or two before, going back and forth on what I thought had the least number of calories. I'd decide how much of my meal to eat compared to what others were eating around me. And if I did end up eating more than I thought I should, I'd feel like crap and beat myself up over it for hours and even days. So many wasted minutes were spent obsessing over food, how it affected my body and took me away from getting skinnier, and how not to be so hungry.
As I began to feel happier, stronger, and proud of myself when working out and attaining new fitness goals, that emotional despair went away.
Then something changed. I'm honestly not sure when my goals and perception shifted, but I think they did as I became happier. I had entered a relationship, I had more friends, and I just came into myself more. But I also realized that my body was my body, and I had a booty. I learned to like myself a hell of a lot and was so sick of feeling bad all the time. I wanted to become the best version of myself, not someone striving to fit a skinny ideal. I needed to find that missing link because it was a daily battle with my body and emotional well-being. I wanted to get stronger, not skinnier, and start embracing my body's natural figure.
I told myself that if I was going to have a bigger butt, I might as well make it a toned one! Up to this point, I had been working out on the elliptical only. I couldn't run long-distance, do sprints, or lift weights. I began to go to fitness classes where weights, battle ropes, monkey bars, and resistance bands were included, and I was horrible. I passed out the first time I had a personal training session. Embarrassing.
But I kept at it, and I ended up seeing some great progress. I never thought I'd like to see muscle in my arms or want to have a nice, round tush that was firm and visible. I slowly started to ditch the longer shirts and embraced my curves. They actually made me feel sexier - way sexier than when I was more "skinny fat" during my restricted-dieting years. Now, I'll go out in crop tops to show off the abs I've worked so hard for.
As I began to feel happier, stronger, and proud of myself when working out and attaining new fitness goals, that emotional despair went away. After each set of burpees or every additional squat or renegade row, I felt powerful and bold. I knew I was doing something good for my body, my mind, and my health: I was healing. I knew the difference between right and wrong thinking. Realizing that a stronger body, no matter how "skinny" it is (those who are naturally skinnier are just as beautiful!), is well-nourished and strong was spot on, and honestly, that newfound mindset saved me.
Now I love my body. I love it even when I'm PMSing and have gained five pounds of water weight. I love it after a huge meal when it's a little fatigued and full. I love it when it's pushing me through a HIIT circuit. I love it first thing in the morning and when I go to bed. I love it naked. I love how I feel in it. I learned to love it.
All people and figures are unique, and as long as you love yours and treat it well, that's all that matters. There is no "right" body to strive for.
Now I'm strong and healthy. I make a point of eating protein and veggies and indulging in my favorite cocktails, pizza, and fries. When I eat a protein bar before or after a workout, I feel awesome. I know I'm fueling my muscles and metabolism, whereas before, I'd nibble on a protein bar with food guilt. I got back to enjoying food of all types, listening to my body and feeding it when it was hungry, and falling more in love with my body every day. Picking up those weights for the first time was the greatest gift I could've given myself, and it's made me into the woman I am today.
With These New Sneakers, You're Already on Your Way to Conquering Those Resolutions
Any fitness fanatic knows that finding the right sneakers is the key to a great workout. When you're hitting the gym, you need a pair that performs, keeps your feet secure, and makes you feel like you can conquer anything. Plus, the fact that they'll go with pretty much anything in your closet doesn't hurt either. Whether you're lifting weights or going through HIIT circuts, you need a great pair of training shoes to take your New Year's resolutions long past week one. Just keep reading to shop our top picks for 2019.
30-Minute Video Workouts - All in 1 Place!
To lose weight or get stronger, you don't need to spend hours exercising. ACE-certified fitness instructor John Kersbergen said three to four 45-minute workouts a week is enough. Can't fit in 45 minutes at one time? Then break up your workouts, because it all adds up! We've compiled 40 half-hour workout videos that you can follow along with. Do a few of these, plus a few of these 20-minute workout videos, and your week of workouts will be done! Here is mix of fun and effective workouts, including weights, Tabata, cardio, yoga, and dance. Experiment and try them all 40 or pick and choose your favorite videos, bookmark them, and do them regularly.
These Presents Will Be on Everyone's Wish List This Year Because They Are Just That Good
Looking for the hottest Christmas gifts this year? Well, look no further, because we found each and every one of them. With gifts for everyone on your list - from kids to boyfriends - these presents will make holiday shopping easier than ever before.
Check out the most popular gifts this year, and be sure to save some room on your wish list, too.
- Additional reporting Macy Cate Williams, Krista Jones, Rebecca Brown, Alessia Santoro, and India Yaffe.
100 Genius Gifts So Good, You'll Never Guess They Cost Under $100
If you're on a time crunch this year, that doesn't mean you need to sacrifice on getting your loved ones impressive gifts. We went on a mission to hunt down the best presents on the internet. Ahead, you'll find 100 seriously good presents you might be tempted to keep for yourself. The best part: they're all under $100. So what are you waiting for? Shop our favorites before they're gone.
100+ Funny White Elephant Gifts That Will Leave Everyone Laughing Hard This Holiday Season
The pressure is on! White elephant gift exchanges are an ideal excuse to sit around with your friends and have a good laugh. If you want to bring the most hilarious present to the group, we've got you covered. These clever choices will have your buds cracking up all season long. Shop through these popular picks before they sell out. Be sure to check everyone off your list with the perfect gifts this year, including even more funny gifts, best tech gifts for him, and best gifts for those dads that already have everything.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano, Krista Jones, Rebecca Brown, and Tara Block
Amazon's Got the Coolest Products of 2019 - Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
If you're the person who's out here making the trends, this is for you. Let all your friends know what's going to be buzzing in 2019; these products are cool, current, and actually practical. From the latest in fitness trackers to smart home technology and gadgets galore, this is what we're going to be crushing on in 2019.
These 18 Amazon Gifts Are Under $25, but They're So Cool, You'll Think We're Lying
Getting a brilliant gift doesn't mean you have to save money for months in advance. All you have to do is shop smart. Luckily, we're experts in that category, so we sifted through Amazon to find you the coolest options under $25. Take a look and purchase them soon; the holidays are closing in on us!
11 Unbelievably Chic Home Decor Items You'll Never Guess Cost Under $50 on Amazon
If you feel like your home could use a little pick-me-up this new year, but you're on a budget, we have the perfect solution for you. Instead of overspending on a total revamp, try sprucing up your space with a couple cute home decor items from Amazon. We scoured its site and uncovered its most stylish pieces that cost less than $50. The best part: they'll be delivered right to your door. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
With These 15+ Affordable Gifts, No One Will Know You Waited Until the Last Minute
Look, we get it, sometimes life takes over and holiday shopping goes on the back burner. But, you don't want to be the only one who shows up empty-handed. If you're an Amazon Prime member, these gifts can be at your door in just two days. And, as if it couldn't get better, these presents are all under $50, so go ahead and gift!
25 Incredible Gifts on Amazon - For $25 or Less
Shopping on a budget during the holidays can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. We looked to Amazon because the retailer carries just about everything you could ever dream of and tons of incredible finds at affordable prices. We did the hard work and curated a list of its 25 hottest gifts that cost $25 or less. The best part: you can skip crowded store shopping because it's delivered right to your door. Take a look at our top picks.
40 Festive Holiday Gifts From Trader Joe's - and They're All Under $10!
The holiday season, as twinkly and jubilant as it is, can be a real budget buster. All the yuletiding, festive gatherings, and thoughtful shopping can be a serious stretch, both time- and money-wise. Trader Joe's is already a thrifty choice for groceries, of course, but it's definitely nailed the definition of one-stop shop with its holiday selection this year. Dominating the festive and frugal game, there are options for seemingly everyone in your life: the kiddos, fine-food aficionados, booze enjoyers, and of course, the chocolate appreciators. With all the holiday "mixed swag" in store, Trader Joe's seems to just get us. A bold statement, but TJ's just may very well be our holiday shopping spirit animal.
The chocolate-covered everything beckons, people . . . and it's not gonna gift itself. You may find yourself gallivanting through grab-bag heaven in the gift-decked aisles, and that's encouraged. Good luck choosing, though, as the selection is merrily abundant. Shopping at TJ's infuses joy on the regular, so it's no surprise that during the holiday season it's downright dripping in it. And for this, we are not mad. So get your shopping vibes going with these 40 holiday gifts from Trader Joe's. They've turned time-crunch gifting into an art, and us into holiday rock stars.
Oh, and did we mention there's not a thing over $10? Boom.
21 Unique Gifts That Will Leave Recipients Saying, "Wow, You're So Thoughtful!"
When you're buying a gift for somebody you care about, don't go the generic route. The best way to show someone you put thought into a present is by finding something unique to give them. There are so many innovative products out there that will blow your mind. Whether the recipient is a techie, couch potato, world traveler, kitchen connoisseur, or avid reader, we've got items that will thrill them. These gifts are perfect for holidays and birthdays, plus they work for all ages. Basically, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. Get to shopping now so you're prepared!
50 Genius Gifts For Men on Amazon - Under $50
Treating the guy in your life to the perfect present isn't always easy, especially if you're shopping on a budget. This year, you don't have to worry, because we turned to Amazon and curated a list of the 50 best gifts for him that you can find for under $50. From hilarious socks to wine-themed picks and even a toilet night light (because who doesn't need that?), all our picks are so affordable, maybe you can get him two things. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
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