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.
mercredi 23 janvier 2019
My Dad Was a Committed Blood Donor; Now, I Give to Honor His Memory
My skinny twig of a dad played rugby. When I was young, my family's social life revolved around the matches. For me it was all about pretending to watch the games, playing with other kids in the cornfields next to the rugby pitch, postgame chili feasts, and all the general revelry that accompanies rugby. The team was tight; it felt like a brotherhood.
When the Red Cross called our house regularly to schedule blood donation appointments with my dad, it made perfect sense, since his Chevy proudly displayed a bumper sticker that read "Give blood. Play rugby." My kid logic simply connected those two activities; I thought my dad donated blood every six weeks with his rugby team. Yeah, I have since figured out there was no such connection, but I must admit, it took longer than one would have anticipated.
My dad never told me why he was dedicated to this form of charitable giving. I never asked. Maybe it had to do with serving in the Navy for five years as a young man. He did brag that he had really good blood, once, in a small attempt at machismo, which was not really part of his personality. When he was diagnosed with cancer and had his blood drawn for tests, his oncologist remarked how healthy he was based on his hemoglobin levels (or something like that). So, even as cancer cells were taking over his body, he blood stayed strong.
He passed away 15 years ago (f*ck cancer), but my sister and I have kept up the mantle. We each try to donate blood two to three times a year - neither of us has been able to match our father's dedication. Each time I fill out the forms, get the pin prick test, and sit in the recliner and squeeze the ball to plump up my vein - through all this I remember my dad. Specifically, I remember him in the small acts of giving from different phases of his life: handing out $5 bills to the homeless; giving his pocket change to buskers; picking up kids with no rides to take to soccer practice (and then taking them home); volunteering at the children's hospital, teaching kids with terminal illnesses to tie fishing flies; and cleaning up polluted creeks.
After 15 years, the memories of my dad can feel tenuous, but after the donation process is complete and I get to drink the OJ and eat the doughnuts (his favorite), I feel connected to him. I mentally toast to him with my juice. This is my small memorial to him, and I am pretty sure he'd be proud. We can't all play rugby, but most of us can give blood.
I Took CBN For a Month to Try to Improve My Sleep - Here's What Happened
4:45 a.m. wake-up calls never get easier. Most days, I'm up before the sun to train clients, work out, and then head to work. You'd think that I'd be in bed by 8 p.m. at the latest, but that's definitely not the case. If I'm extremely exhausted, I'll be in bed by 10 p.m., but on most days I don't end up falling asleep until around 11 p.m. the earliest.
Because I know how important sleep is for things like recovery, muscle growth, and my sanity, I've been trying to implement techniques that will help me get a quality night's rest into my routine. That means no online shopping and scrolling through Instagram in bed or watching Netflix late at night and avoiding sugary foods in the evenings.
Aside from following those simple practices, I recently began taking CBN (cannabinol), one of the greater than 60 active compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBN is nonpsychoactive, meaning it won't get you high.
During the past month, I took 24 milligrams of Robyn For Sleep by Mineral Health 30 minutes before going to bed (this allows your body to absorb the product, according to the Mineral Health website). I didn't take it every single day (like on the weekends), but I did use it when I knew I was going to be up for 17 hours, when I felt stressed, and during times when I had a lot going on with with training, work, and other passion projects (about three to four days a week).
Because I've used CBD before, I already knew not to expect to feel any drastic changes. I didn't suddenly feel drowsy or ready to fall asleep exactly 30 minutes after taking the CBN. Some nights I felt more relaxed, which for me is key to falling and staying asleep, and other days I didn't feel anything except for well rested when I woke up.
I know that there are a lot of claims when it comes to the benefits of CBD and CBN products, which is why I reached out to Robert Carson, MD, PhD, assistant professor of neurology pediatrics at Vanderbilt University. "The reported benefits of CBN are similar to those reported for CBD and for medical cannabis," Dr. Carson told POPSUGAR. He also explained research is lacking and "the potential benefits are extrapolated from basic science (lab-based) studies, but not verified in human trials."
This doesn't mean that CBN won't work for you. Dr. Carson said that the benefits of CBN have been touted as an effective sleep aid and sedative, "with effects rivaling that of benzodiazepine diazepam (Valium)." Although research is still in the infancy stage, Dr. Carson said, "I suspect that some individuals will find a benefit from taking CBN for sleep, and that others will not. Similar to sleep supplements such as melatonin, where many patients report a great benefit from it with respect to sleep induction, whereas others report effects analogous to crack."
Before supplementing with CBN, Dr. Carson advised speaking with a physician about the supplements you're currently taking and the ones you would like to begin to take because of the potential for drug-to-drug interactions.
The Fitness Marshall Has a New Dance Workout to "7 Rings" - Need We Say More?
If you can't stop playing "7 Rings" by Ariana Grande, you're definitely going to love The Fitness Marshall's latest dance workout.
The routine is easy enough for beginners and experts to follow and includes a lot of signature body rolls. This workout is guaranteed to have your abs and legs feeling extremely sore after a few rounds.
"Ariana's new song has us feeling like we're in the royal family," TFM told POPSUGAR. "Take the next three minutes and dance like your toilet is made of gold." Be sure to check out the routine in the video above.
If You Want to Lose Weight With Intermittent Fasting, Follow This 11-Step Guide
You keep hearing these two little words - intermittent fasting. If you want to learn more about what it is, why people do it, and how to do it, this is the guide for you! We'll answer all the basic questions about intermittent fasting (also referred to as IF) so you can decide if it might be right for you.
If you read through this guide and decide to take the IF plunge, be sure to check with your doctor first!
10 Sneakers on Sale So Cool, You'll Wonder How They're Still in Stock
When we say, "You can never have enough sneakers," we mean it. Whether you're using your kicks to go to the gym, take a class, or just stroll around town, there's always room for more. That's why we created an ultimate guide to our favorite sneakers of the year on sale. These discounted shoes come in every color of the rainbow and every style you can think of, too. The affordable price tags are a huge plus too. See the deals for yourself.
2019 Is the Year I Sleep Like a Baby, Thanks to These 7 Genius Products From Amazon
I have been a restless sleeper my entire life. I often wake up a couple times throughout the night, and it takes me a while to fall asleep in the first place. My poor nights of rest have led to bad habits like hitting snooze a bunch of times in the morning or feeling drowsy during the day.
That's why in 2019, I have the resolution to make better sleep my priority. In just a few weeks, I have already seen improvements thanks to some useful products on Amazon. Read on to learn how these essentials are helping me, then try them out for yourself.
The Macronutrient You Should Be Eating More of to Build Muscle (Hint: It's Not Protein)
You've probably heard that eating plenty of protein is key to building lean muscle and generating strength. And while it's important to eat enough of this macronutrient for muscle gains, it's not the only macronutrient you should be focused on. In fact, it's not even the most important.
To build muscle, registered dietitian and personal trainer Jim White, RDN, ACSM, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios, said to eat about 0.5 to 0.8 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight. So if you weigh 150 pounds, you should shoot for 75 to 120 grams of protein a day, which can be spread out among meals and snacks.
But while protein is important, there's another macro that should actually take up most of your diet: carbs. "Carbs give us energy, and the more energy we have, the more we can push to have stronger workouts and have a better chance of increased muscle mass," Jim told POPSUGAR. Have you ever gone on an extremely low-carb diet and found yourself so fatigued, you're barely able to make it through your workout? It's not uncommon with people who drastically reduce their carbs.
And it's not just the energy to crush it in the gym; carbs help your body process the protein that's necessary for muscle growth. Jim explained that when you eat in an extreme carb restriction over an extended period of time, your body doesn't have a chance to break down and use the protein for your muscles.
What Your Macro Breakdown Should Be For Muscle Gain
In terms of your macronutrient profile, carbs should be the focus of your day. "A diet that is higher in carbohydrates, and lower in protein and fat, is ideal," Jim explained. To build muscle, he recommends a general macro breakdown of 55 percent carbs, 25 percent protein, and 20 percent fat.
So go ahead and enjoy that whole-wheat pasta or quinoa with dinner, throw a banana in your protein shake, and don't be afraid to enjoy a slice of whole-grain toast with your eggs.
Cook Once and Eat All Week With These Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes
I may not be the best cook, but I still manage to meal prep on Sundays. One of my favorite meal prep hacks is using my slow cooker. My slow cooker is six quarts so I'm able to make big batches of food that will last me throughout the week. Plus, I can make the food in the morning, set it, and do all the other chores and errands I need to do throughout the day while my food cooks. Win-win.
One of my favorite healthy recipes to make is shredded chicken with salsa for burrito bowls and tacos: I put a few raw chicken breasts in the base of the slow cooker, cover it with a jar of salsa, and let it cook for a few hours on high. I also love making big batches of turkey chili to last me all week (just browned ground turkey, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and a bunch of cans of beans).
Instead of spending all afternoon laboring over a hot stovetop and oven, use your slow cooker to meal prep. Not sure where to start? Scroll through these five recipes to get you started.
Giving Blood For the First Time? Here's Everything You Need to Know
I'm terrified of needles. When I was a little kid, I would scream so loud any time I had to get my vaccinations, the other kids in the pediatrician's office assumed I was being subjected to some type of medieval torture. So when my high school offered a blood drive, I balked. I wasn't about to subject my arm to more needles.
It wasn't until I got to college and joined a sorority, where we were highly encouraged to participate in the blood donation aspects of our Homecoming and Greek Week festivities, that I mustered up the courage to do it. It eased my nerves to have friends to donate with, but I had no idea what to expect. I ate an iron-filled meal beforehand, drank a bunch of water, and hoped for the best.
When I first donated, I squeezed the nurse's hand so tight, I thought she would be leaving with broken appendages. But I survived, and you know what? It wasn't even that bad. I could barely feel the needle going in, and if I didn't look at the bag getting filled with my blood, I could pretend like nothing was happening. Now, I make an effort to give blood whenever possible.
According to the American Red Cross, someone in the US needs blood every two seconds, and one donation can potentially save up to three lives. If you're thinking about donating blood (and you should!) or you're just curious about what it entails, read on. We spoke with Patty Corvaia, APR, external communications manager at American Red Cross Blood Services, who outlined everything you need to know before giving blood and what you should do before, during, and after. Read on to get prepared to give back to your community and potentially save lives.
Grab Your Dumbbells - These Exercises Will Tone, Shape, and Strengthen Your Arms
Bodyweight exercises are great. Hello, push-ups! To gain even more strength in your upper body, try adding dumbbells to your fitness routine. Adding weights to your arm workouts means you will start seeing muscle definition in your biceps, triceps, and shoulders (deltoid). We've rounded up a bunch of dumbbell exercises for you; select three to five of these moves to add to your strength-training workouts. Aim to work the different parts of your arms - don't just focus on your biceps!
We have a guide to selecting the right weights for your workout, and do know that you might need different weights, depending on what muscle you are working and which exercise you are doing. Keep reading to learn how to work your arms with dumbbells. Now grab your weights and get lifting!
Lay's Fried Pickles With Ranch Chips Are Back on Shelves, So Keep Crunchin' On!
Ready your taste buds, potato chip fans! Lay's Fried Pickles With Ranch flavor is back on shelves after a short hiatus. The unique chip flavor was originally part of the brand's "Taste of America" collection, inspired by the Midwest region of the country where everything is deliciously deep-fried.
This snack hasn't been seen in stores since September, but according to The Impulsive Buy, you can once again pick up your own bag at Sam's Club. It's still unclear how long these chips will stay on shelves this time around, so if you're a fan of all food pickle-flavored, run don't walk!
100+ Things to Do Before You Die
You will never need to read another bucket list again. Trust us when we say this is the mother lode of bucket lists, the bucket list to end all bucket lists, the . . . well, you get the point. It goes without saying that life is short, so get some of these amazing experiences under your belt while you can!
19 Things to Let Go of in Your Kitchen in 2019
There's no better time to take a really good look at your kitchen and get rid of sh*t you don't need than the New Year. Make 2019 the year you finally get rid of unwanted clutter, extra kitchen gadgets, and years-old spices, and you'll feel a huge sense of relief every time you step into your kitchen. No matter what month you start, you'll thank yourself later! Pursuing a clutter-free home is a good idea no matter the time of year. Ahead, get an idea of the 20 things you really don't need and that you should get rid of ASAP if you want to be more organized than ever this year.
24 Valentine's Day Gifts So Thoughftul, Your SO Will Never Know They're From Amazon
Shopping for Valentine's Day can be stressful, but this year it doesn't have to be. To make finding the perfect gift easy you can turn to Amazon because the site carries just about everything you could ever think of, including sweet and thoughtful presents. We did the hard work for you and uncovered 24 choices that will surely make them feel special. From a dozen roses to a giant teddy bear, they'll be delivered right to your door (or theirs!). Take a look.
The Secret to a Great Night's Sleep Has Been Hiding in Your Bedroom
Raise your hand if your 2019 New Year's resolution was to get a higher quality of sleep. Yeah, us too. Well, in order to do that, you've got to look at some of your most basic accessories, and the first thing should be your pillow. Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, there's a great option that's just waiting for you to drift off to dreamland.
Related: 2019 Is the Year I Sleep Like a Baby, Thanks to These 7 Genius Products From Amazon
No Fireplace? No Problem! These Are the 6 Best Fireplaces You Can Buy Right Now
We all know how lovely and romantic it sounds to curl up by the fire in the Winter, but not all of us were blessed with fireplaces in our homes or apartments. Well, hold on to your hats, because indoor fireplaces exist, and you can buy them online. Rather spend your New Year's Eve warm and cozy by a fireplace? Just keep reading to shop our picks, and get ready to elevate your home decor game in 2019.
I Used to Hate My Ugly Apartment, but These 10 Decor Items Totally Transformed It
I'm lucky enough to live in a rent-controlled apartment in San Francisco. That said, it hasn't been updated in over 15 years, leaving me with ugly brown carpet and dark beige walls. In an effort to spruce up my old space without doing any handiwork, I simply invested in a few decor pieces that totally transformed it overnight. From a white fuzzy carpet to a cool bed frame, these picks make for great inspiration if you're looking to refresh a room in your home. Keep reading to see my favorite items and start thinking about your next revamp.
Taking Everything You Own to College? These 17 Organizers Are Going to Be Lifesavers
It's no secret that going to college means you've got to get organized. When you're living in tiny dorm rooms, every square foot of space becomes all the more valuable. If school's in session or you're just getting prepared, you've got to shop our top college organization picks. Now all you have to worry about is class; we've got your dorm covered.
Peeps Cereal Is Now Sold at Target, and You Better Believe There Are Marshmallows in It
Peeps are invading breakfast time - again! Just a few weeks after International Delight's Peeps coffee creamer made its debut, Kellogg's quietly dropped a brand-new cereal inspired by the fluffy Easter candies. The limited-edition breakfast treat combines white marshmallows with pink, blue, and yellow cereal pieces covered in sugary dots reminiscent of those found on Apple Jacks or Oreo O's. So yeah, your milk is gonna taste pretty sugary once you devour a bowlful.
So far, it looks like the family-size boxes of Kellogg's Peeps cereal have only been spotted on shelves at Target, and shoppers who've gotten their hands on a box are pretty into the flavor. "It's strange but it works!" one Instagram user admitted. "The sweetness is a nice balance; not too sweet but not bland." Another happy customer quipped that you get a "huge [whiff] of vanilla" when you open the box and that "the milk is super sugary and sweet at the end." Um, we're sold! Now, who's down for a trip to Targé?
Lay's Fried Pickles With Ranch Chips Are Back on Shelves, So Keep Crunchin' On!
Ready your taste buds, potato chip fans! Lay's Fried Pickles With Ranch flavor is back on shelves after a short hiatus. The unique chip flavor was originally part of the brand's "Taste of America" collection, inspired by the Midwest region of the country where everything is deliciously deep-fried.
This snack hasn't been seen in stores since September, but according to The Impulsive Buy, you can once again pick up your own bag at Sam's Club. It's still unclear how long these chips will stay on shelves this time around, so if you're a fan of all food pickle-flavored, run don't walk!
100+ Things to Do Before You Die
You will never need to read another bucket list again. Trust us when we say this is the mother lode of bucket lists, the bucket list to end all bucket lists, the . . . well, you get the point. It goes without saying that life is short, so get some of these amazing experiences under your belt while you can!
19 Things to Let Go of in Your Kitchen in 2019
There's no better time to take a really good look at your kitchen and get rid of sh*t you don't need than the New Year. Make 2019 the year you finally get rid of unwanted clutter, extra kitchen gadgets, and years-old spices, and you'll feel a huge sense of relief every time you step into your kitchen. No matter what month you start, you'll thank yourself later! Pursuing a clutter-free home is a good idea no matter the time of year. Ahead, get an idea of the 20 things you really don't need and that you should get rid of ASAP if you want to be more organized than ever this year.
24 Valentine's Day Gifts So Thoughftul, Your SO Will Never Know They're From Amazon
Shopping for Valentine's Day can be stressful, but this year it doesn't have to be. To make finding the perfect gift easy you can turn to Amazon because the site carries just about everything you could ever think of, including sweet and thoughtful presents. We did the hard work for you and uncovered 24 choices that will surely make them feel special. From a dozen roses to a giant teddy bear, they'll be delivered right to your door (or theirs!). Take a look.
No Fireplace? No Problem! These Are the 6 Best Fireplaces You Can Buy Right Now
We all know how lovely and romantic it sounds to curl up by the fire in the Winter, but not all of us were blessed with fireplaces in our homes or apartments. Well, hold on to your hats, because indoor fireplaces exist, and you can buy them online. Rather spend your New Year's Eve warm and cozy by a fireplace? Just keep reading to shop our picks, and get ready to elevate your home decor game in 2019.
I Used to Hate My Ugly Apartment, but These 10 Decor Items Totally Transformed It
I'm lucky enough to live in a rent-controlled apartment in San Francisco. That said, it hasn't been updated in over 15 years, leaving me with ugly brown carpet and dark beige walls. In an effort to spruce up my old space without doing any handiwork, I simply invested in a few decor pieces that totally transformed it overnight. From a white fuzzy carpet to a cool bed frame, these picks make for great inspiration if you're looking to refresh a room in your home. Keep reading to see my favorite items and start thinking about your next revamp.
Taking Everything You Own to College? These 17 Organizers Are Going to Be Lifesavers
It's no secret that going to college means you've got to get organized. When you're living in tiny dorm rooms, every square foot of space becomes all the more valuable. If school's in session or you're just getting prepared, you've got to shop our top college organization picks. Now all you have to worry about is class; we've got your dorm covered.
Guess What? Kids Definitely Heard Grover Drop an F-Bomb in That Sesame Street Clip Too
The audible illusion that had the internet up in arms last month centered on the beloved Sesame Street. A Reddit user couldn't distinguish the difference between tame dialogue from Grover and a flat-out F-bomb. Much like the Laurel vs. Yanny or gold dress vs. blue dress debates, adults couldn't stop talking about what they heard come out of this little blue monster's mouth.
But how about what kids, the show's target audience, actually heard? Well, Jimmy Kimmel Live got to work and asked kids at the farmers market what Grover said. Some were blissfully unaware of any foul language, and others . . . knew exactly what was going on. "Don't worry - I hear it at home!" one girl joked. Watch the video above and chuckle along. Looks like the debate will continue, even among younger viewers.
My Husband and I Fell in Love With Valentine's Day For the Sweetest Reason
My husband and I never used to bother with Valentine's Day - until the year he lost his job. Before that, we would scoff at those who adhered to the Hallmark holiday. We laughed at the heart-shaped chocolates, the roses, and the fancy dinners. But something about that cold Michigan Winter made us feel extra grateful for each other on Valentine's Day. Although we didn't have the money to make reservations at a nice steakhouse or trendy sushi restaurant, I wanted to make it a point to celebrate our love that year.
We sat there, in our candlelit kitchen with crumbs on our floor from the kids, and fell in love with Valentine's Day.
I took to the grocery ads and found a local supermarket where filet mignon was on sale. I picked up a couple of steaks and was preparing to make a delicious meal on my own. I wrote a letter to my husband, cooked dinner, and lit a candle, and we had our own fancy Valentine's Day dinner. After our two small children were asleep, we spent the evening drinking $5 wine and talking about how far we'd come. Things were rough that year, but despite the tightening of our belts, our love was only stronger.
Now, we make it a point to celebrate every year. We strive to keep it simple and keep it at home - because that's where the memories are made. Nothing will ever beat that first Valentine's Day that we decided to join in with the rest of the cheesy lovebirds. We flew with them, hearts circling our heads. My husband losing his job made us understand that, yes, we should celebrate our love every single day of the year, but choosing to celebrate extra on Valentine's Day doesn't have to be sappy.
We no longer scoff at other couples on Valentine's Day - we've become one of them. We may not dive into the cards, chocolates, or jewelry, but we certainly swim into each other. It's important to us to celebrate our love on this special day because it reminds us of that one Winter when things were extra hard. But we got through it. That's what true love and marriage is - getting through hard times and coming out the other end with resilience. So, on this Valentine's Day, if you're contemplating whether it's just another cheesy holiday, embrace it. Let your significant other know just how badass they are.
The 1 Thing I'll Never Say to My Kid
As an adult who suffers from panic attacks and anxiety, I can say with conviction that one of the least effective things people routinely say when I'm experiencing a panic attack is "calm down." While it's coming from a good place, I find it useless, and in the moment, it actually acts as a trigger for me because it signifies that something is wrong and not only am I in trouble, but someone has noticed my symptoms, and now I'm embarrassed for my behavior. You see the cycle here.
Which is why when I learned that Dr. Erina White, a Boston children's hospital researcher and clinical services director at Mightier, is a firm believer in avoiding using "calm down" language with children, I was immediately interested. I reached out to her to find out why telling a child to "calm down" might be ineffective and learn what parents should be doing instead.
"Usually, telling someone to 'calm down' is an SOS, a 'please stop, I can't take it anymore' on the part of the nonemotional person. It becomes an acknowledgment that whatever the other person is feeling or doing is too much, which can be a tough message for kids to hear," White explained.
What to do when a child is upset
So what should a parent do instead when their child is clearly upset? Say nothing? Dr. White suggests asking questions to get them to better understand their emotions. Ask things like, "How are you feeling right now?," "What's going on?," "What can we do to make this better?," or "I'm going to let you have your emotions right now; let me know when you are ready to move forward."
Parents should try to help their children with emotional regulation
Emotions are difficult things to process at any age, but if a parent can be successful at helping their child understand their own feelings, that's an enormous achievement. "Emotional regulation is learning how to navigate your feelings so that they are expressed in productive ways at the right times," White explained. "Let's say that you have a child who has just had her toy stolen by her younger brother. She can express her anger by hitting him or asking for help from her parents. The first results in a time out and uncomfortable consequences. The second might net her some assistance in getting her toy back and an ice cream for handling the situation in a productive manner." The same can apply to a child who is experiencing anxiety. "Someone who is anxious about going to school might have a meltdown, refuse school, and become substantially more frightened as they have allowed their fear to win, whereas another child with school phobia might face it in small increments, going to school a little more each day so that finally the fear subsides," White said. Both of these are important examples of how parents can acknowledge emotions.
When should you start this work?
It's never too early to start exploring emotions with your children. "I recommend for parents to acknowledge a child's emotions as often as they can," White suggested. Try saying things like, "Looks like this might hurt," "You seem sad here," and "Wow, that really made you angry when your brother pushed you."
It's also perfectly fine if you've already started telling your kid to "calm down"; there are tons of opportunities to practice new behaviors. "I try to remind parents that there really isn't a 'normal' as long as kids are working at discovering their emotions and making them productive. Some kids are naturally going to pick up these skills faster than others," she emphasized. There's no need for any of us to get down or feel bad if we're struggling to develop these habits at home. She finished with a dose of humor: "And, by the way, most adults don't have emotional regulation mastery."
70 Rarely Used Baby Names to Set Your Child Apart in 2019
With each passing decade comes a set of popular baby names ranging from classic monikers to those that are more trendy, but what about those names beyond the top 10? Beyond the top 1,000? According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), there are hundreds of names given to babies each year that never see the top of the popular lists.
Based on data from the last complete SSA names list from 2017, we've compiled 70 baby names given to 50 or fewer babies - that's one per US state or fewer - that might pique your interest if you're looking for a not-trendy name for your baby boy or girl.
10 Valentine's Day Products on Amazon (All Under $20)
I love all of the treats and decor that come along with Valentine's Day. I honestly can't wait to get my hands on all of the adorable products. Amazon really stepped up its game this year with a wide variety of sweet items you can use to adorn your home or give to your friends. Check out these lovely picks!
16 Pregnancy Products We Couldn't Live Without - Seriously!
Whether you're in your first trimester or nearing the third, chances are you have tons of questions. What do you need to get through the physical changes that are up ahead? And if you've been experiencing any symptoms, you might be feeling desperate for some resolve. We tapped POPSUGAR's very own editors - and moms or moms-to-be - to find out what products helped them make the most out of those nine months. From clothing to cure-alls, it's all right here.
Chelsea Clinton Is Expecting Baby Number 3! Read Her Sweet Announcement
Chelsea Clinton is expecting her third child! Already mom to 4-year-old Charlotte and 2-year-old Aidan with husband Marc Mezvinsky, Chelsea shared the news on Twitter on Jan. 22, where she wrote that she and her family "cannot wait to meet our newest addition later this Summer." Although Chelsea is Bill and Hillary's only child, the 38-year-old is thrilled to be growing her family and making her mom and dad grandparents three times over. Plus, she can't wait to see how her two older kids transition, particularly Aidan, who will become a big brother for the first time. "Marc and I have loved watching Charlotte be such a wonderful big sister and we're excited to watch Aidan become a big brother!"
Congrats, Clinton family!
Marc and I have loved watching Charlotte be such a wonderful big sister and we're excited to watch Aidan become a big brother! We cannot wait to meet our newest addition later this summer.
- Chelsea Clinton (@ChelseaClinton) January 22, 2019
Despite Her "Genderless" Approach, Kate Hudson Says Raising a Daughter Has Been Different
Kate Hudson may have recently welcomed her third child, but she's not done learning a thing or two about parenting. The actress recently spoke with AOL while promoting her fairly new partnership with WW and opened up about what it's been like to raise her daughter, Rani Rose Hudson Fujikawa, after previously raising two sons. (Kate's first child, Ryder Russell Robinson, is now 15 years old, and she also has a 7-year-old, Bingham Hawn Bellamy.)
"It doesn't really change my approach, but there's definitely a difference," Kate said in the interview. While Kate feels as though Rani has a pretty "feminine" personality so far, she tends to gravitate toward a "genderless" parenting approach. "I think you just raise your kids individually regardless," Kate said. "We still don't know what she's going to identify as. I will say that, right now, she is incredibly feminine in her energy, her sounds, and her way."
That being said, Kate said shopping for her daughter has offered a different experience. "It's very different from the boys, and it's really fun to actually want to buy kids' clothes. With the boys it was just like onesies . . . actually, I did pretty good with the boys," she joked. "But with her it's a whole other ball game. There's some stuff that I'm like, 'I can't do that to her, because it's so over-the-top.'"
Speaking of "over-the-top" children's clothing, Kate did dress Rani up in a bold, bright red onesie with some floral ruching over the holidays, which she said was partially inspired by witnessing Bob Mackie design for her mother, Goldie Hawn, as she was growing up. "I have a bit of an affinity for the embellished and sequined," Kate wrote on Instagram. Hey, everything in moderation.
Kate Middleton Gets Candid About the Fact That She, Too, Has Parenting Struggles Sometimes
Kate Middleton might be the mom of actual princes and a princess, but she's still a parent with many of the same stresses and concerns as others. As part of her royal engagements, Kate visited the Family Action charity in London, where she launched a service called FamilyLine. The confidential helpline is set up for any parent struggling "with any aspect of family life, such as parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship difficulties, or mental health and wellbeing."
When Kate met with FamilyLine volunteers, she got candid about the fact that she is not immune to parenting woes. "Everybody experiences the same struggle," she said, according to E! News. "You get a lot of support with the baby years . . . particularly in the early days up to the age of about one, but after that there isn't a huge amount - lots of books to read."
A volunteer weighed in and said, "Why she's a great supporter of our service is that she does recognize that families have the same pressures and struggles and she's no exception. She may have slightly different circumstances to the rest of us but, you know, being a parent is being a parent." Truth. Prince George, 5, Princess Charlotte, 3, and Prince Louis, 8 months, may be adorable, but the 37-year-old Duchess of Cambridge is probably tired just like you.
Maintain Your Place as #1 Gift Giver With the Best Toys of 2019
Whether you're a parent, relative, or close friend of the family, chances are there is a young one you'll have to shop for this year. Be sure you stay up to date on the hottest toys and newest releases with this handy guide of chart-topping items. It will be a lifesaver!
9 Shoe Organizers That Will Help You Tidy Your Room - All From Amazon
My weakness is buying shoes - I won't even admit how many I own. Having tons of pairs leads to a messy bedroom I'm constantly tidying up. To kick off the year right, I'm cleaning up my shoe pile; there are tons of great organizers on Amazon that make keeping everything in order easy. Check out the top-rated choices that customers approve of. You'll feel so much better with an organized space.
You've Been Carrying Your Baby's Car Seat Wrong the Whole Time
One of the most universal pain points of parenting is carrying a baby car seat. There's just no way to do it that isn't awkward or uncomfortable.
Dr. Emily Puente of Bridge Family Chiropractic, however, just revealed a genius way to carry them, pain-free.
"It's not going to hurt your shoulder, it's not going to hurt your hip, and you're not going to have to use your knee to swing like I had to do with my two [kids]," she said of the technique before demonstrating it in a Facebook video. "Someone taught me this before, and it's been the greatest thing."
The traditional way people carry car seats puts undue strain on the body because it doesn't distribute the weight evenly across the body. Her go-to maneuver looks almost too good to be true: "I will guarantee you this is going to be easier for you to carry."
Still, in her post, the chiropractor recognizes that "due to so many different makes and models of car seats, it is likely that this method won't work for all seats."
Here's hoping it works with yours!
Mom's Potty-Training Method Involves Covering ENTIRE Home in Wee-Wee Pads
The idea of having potty-trained kids, in theory, is a good one. It means no more diapers and greater independence for our growing toddlers. But the process of actually potty-training them? It's a nightmare . . . a pee-soaked nightmare.
One mom in the UK attempted to get ahead of all that before beginning to potty-train her daughter. And she may have gone a smidge overboard.
"Am I doing it right?" Shona McLoughlin asked with a laughing emoji before posting images from "Day One." The series of photos showed the floor of her child's playroom completely covered by dozens of wee-wee pads typically used for housebreaking dogs.
"Sat here waiting for her to pee," she wrote. "Do I just keep sitting her on the potty and hope she gets it? I've no idea what I'm doing."
Clearly, but let's be honest: do any of us?!
People Are Starting to Order Gender-Reveal Lasagna, and I'm in Carb Heaven
Gender-reveal parties aren't exactly new anymore. Once you've popped one balloon filled with pink (or blue!) confetti, you've popped them all. For soon-to-be parents, finding a unique way to announce the sex of their future child is getting a lot harder, especially since a now-traditional "Is It a Boy or Girl?" secret-filling cake just won't cut it. Luckily for them, there may be one surprise left untapped.
You can now order "gender-reveal lasagna" for your next party!
Villa Italian Kitchen, a quick-service pizza brand, announced the addition of a new catering package that features one cheese lasagna with a secret pink or blue interior. The made-to-order lasagna includes pasta imported from Italy, a classic Italian alfredo sauce, and both creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheeses. The spread also comes with enough garlic rolls and salad for a party of 12 for $140.
So, if you want to add a fun - albeit a little cheesy (literally!) - twist to the growing gender-reveal party trend, cut into some lasagna, reveal that dyed cheese, and dig into a hearty meal, without a frilly cupcake in sight.
1 Mom May Have Solved the Problem of Kids Wearing Coats in Car Seats Once and For All
Like every other parent under the sun, Dahlia Rezik - a mom of three from New Hampshire - wants her kids to be as safe as possible in the car. But you know what presents a hazard during the Winter months? Bulky coats. Rather than enduring the struggle of getting her kid from place to place without a coat for another second, Dahlia decided to do something about it by creating a line of car-seat-safe outerwear called Buckle Me Baby Coats.
"One day, feeling totally defeated by the No Coat Thing, I thought if the zipper wasn't in the middle . . . Enter instant excitement! I applied for a patent and did the next logical thing, I spoke with every coat manufacturer imaginable," Dahlia explained on her website. "I thought they would jump on the idea, but they didn't believe that coats and car seats had anything to do with one another. They weren't in the trenches though - I was - and I knew other parents were, too."
And yes, according to experts, buckling your kids into their car seats with their Winter coats on can be particularly dangerous.
"Wearing coats, heavy sweaters, or fleeces, for that matter, can prevent a snug and very important fit of the harness, which has to be tight at the shoulders and hips every time," said Safe Kids Worldwide. "You might think your child is securely snug in the car seat when in fact the harness is not tight enough because there is so much air in the coat or clothing."
So what's so special about Buckle Me Baby Coats? The front panels of the garment pull to the side and the shoulder seam is actually in the back of the jacket so the car seat straps can go underneath the coat, rather than over the top. (There's a full video tutorial on the site!).
Although the American Academy of Pediatrics hasn't signed off on the line just yet, Buckle Me Baby Coats is a much safer option than simply buckling your child in with a normal jacket on. After all, those chest straps need to be snug. Read through to get a look at Dahlia's line.
After 1 Hungover School Run, Anne Hathaway Decided to Give Up Drinking For 18 Years
All it can take is one bad drinking experience for someone to swear off alcohol, but for Anne Hathaway, it involved Matthew McConaughey and a few terrible hangovers. On Tuesday, the Serenity actress sat down with Ellen DeGeneres, where she discussed her upcoming movie and how it ultimately led to the decision to give up alcohol for the next 18 years. While Anne couldn't exactly remember a night out in Mauritius with Matthew and his wife, Camila Alves, she remembered a very hungover meeting with their director the next day, which she detailed in the video.
Following that experience and some other rough mornings, Anne made the official decision to quit drinking for 18 years this past October. "I'm gonna stop drinking while my son's living in my house just because I don't totally love the way I do it and he's getting to an age where he really does need me all the time in the mornings," she said of her and husband Adam Shulman's 2-year-old son, Jonathan Rosebanks Shulman.
Waking up with a vicious hangover is a valid reason to want to stop drinking, but that combined with a young child and morning duties solidified Anne's decision. "I did one school run one day where I wasn't driving but I was hungover, and that was enough for me," she said. "I didn't love that." And for Ellen, that's "another reason I don't want kids." Check out the clip of Anne discussing her drinking experiences and more photos of her on The Ellen DeGeneres Show ahead. Would you give up drinking for your kids?
This Mom Carried Her Baby to Term So She Could Donate Her Organs to Sick Children
After carrying her baby Rylei Arcadia for 18 weeks, Krysta Davis and her boyfriend Derek Lovett got news no parent wants to hear: their little girl had anencephaly - a deadly birth defect in which a baby is born without parts of the brain and skull - which has an average life expectancy that ranges from seconds to just a few days.
Although doctors gave Krysta the option to induce labor and deliver Rylei, Krysta opted to carry the baby to term and hope for the best when she learned that she could donate her child's organs to other children in need. "I may have not been able to take my baby home, but I could maybe use her life to give other mothers the chance to," she told The Daily Advertiser.
Study Author on the Effects of Teens Smoking Weed: “You’re Changing Your Brain With Just 1 or 2 Joints”
With the further legalization of marijuana around the US, there's one group of recreational smokers that shouldn't be taking advantage of being able to use the drug: teens. Although weed has been found to alleviate stress and anxiety, pain, and nausea, among other benefits, just as with alcohol, there's an age restriction on using the drug where it's legal - and for good reason. A recent study is showing why it could potentially be harmful for teens to be smoking weed - even just one or two joints - before their brains are fully developed.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Neuroscience, looked at the brains of 46 teens who reported having used cannabis once or twice by age 14. When compared to adolescents who had never used the drug, the brains of said 46 kids showed increased brain matter volume "in areas where cannabis binds, known as cannabinoid receptors . . . The biggest differences in gray matter were in the amygdala, which is involved in fear and other emotion-related processes, and in the hippocampus, involved in memory development and spatial abilities."
Related: Bullying Isn't Just "a Part of Growing Up" - It's Altering Our Kids' Brains
The study's senior author and University of Vermont (UVM) Professor of Psychiatry, Hugh Garavan, PhD, told ScienceDaily: "Consuming just one or two joints seems to change gray matter volumes in these young adolescents. The implication is that this is potentially a consequence of cannabis use. You're changing your brain with just one or two joints. Most people would likely assume that one or two joints would have no impact on the brain."
"You're changing your brain with just one or two joints."
At the adolescent stage, teens' brains normally undergo a "pruning" process in which brain matter thins out as the brain matures and continues to develop. So while it's unclear as to how exactly this thickened brain matter will affect those teens in the future, Garavan suggests, "One possibility is they've actually disrupted that pruning process."
Related: We Asked a Neuroscientist If You Can Be Addicted to Cannabis - See His Fascinating Response
When talking to your kids about the effects of drugs and alcohol on their young, developing bodies, be sure to inform them about the potential negative effects of marijuana on their growing brains - specifically concerning their memories, emotions, and spatial reasoning.
This Boss' Response to an Employee's Pumping Request Should Be the Gold Effing Standard
Working moms often dread one email more than any others - it's the one they have to send to their supervisors when they are heading back to their jobs after an always-feels-too-short maternity leave.
Why? Because that email is often peppered with requests that might go unfulfilled - whether it's a desperate plea for unexpected job flexibility, a request for different hours to fit with childcare constraints, or the need for a clean, private space in which to pump breastmilk several times per workday.
A Reddit user recently emailed her manager about her forthcoming return to work and her plan to pump, and his response was pitch-perfect.
Emailed my manager about my return to work and plan to pump; this was his response! 👏🏽 from r/breastfeeding
"Whatever you need to do to be successful here, I am supportive," he wrote back before giving a helpful suggestion that she put her pumping sessions in the office's calendar so that no one can inadvertently schedule anything that conflicts.
His final remark was the reminder all employers - aside from, perhaps, heart surgeons! - need to remember:
"Nothing here is so crucial that you should not take care of yourself, so please let me know if there's anything else that we need to discuss."
This simple email is a great example for all managers and a reminder that although many companies - particularly small, fledgling ones - can't always move mountains to make life easier on new moms, employers can still be understanding, supportive, and resourceful.
Someone give this man a raise!
If Stay-at-Home Parents Were Paid, They'd Net $162K Per Year, and We're Not Surprised at All
Leaving your career to be a stay-at-home mom isn't always easy. And while forgoing your paycheck is never fun, recently researchers calculated how much stay-at-home parents would make each year if they were to be paid, and spoiler alert, it's a lot. According to new data from Salary.com, moms or dads who stayed home with the kids would earn $162,581.
Researchers came up with this figure by asking thousands of stay-at-home moms how much of their time they dedicate to things like housework, driving the kids around, and generally, keeping everyone in the family alive. And to absolutely no parent's surprise, stay-at-home moms disclosed they work up to 96 hours a week.
Related: A Day in the Life of a Stay-at-Home Mom
Although that salary may seem high to some, if you break down what parents would spend on things like food and childcare, it actually makes sense.
"My husband would need to put the kids in daycare so that he could return to work," said stay-at-home mom Jackie Semmens. "He'd probably have to hire a housekeeper and, while I don't think there are any personal chefs for hire in our small town, he would doubtlessly spend more money on take-out. For those nights that he worked late, and weekends when last-minute projects came up, he'd need a sitter. He'd probably have to hire someone to help with the yard work, too."
Compared to last year's data, stay-at-home parents this year got a pretty significant raise - like in the ballpark of $5,000 - so confirmed, the gig isn't exactly getting any easier!
Here's Why Divorce Just Isn't an Option For Us
A little over 11 years ago, my husband and I stood together in a room full of our family and friends - and a few random, obscure cousins no one had ever mentioned until it was time to mail out wedding invitations - and promised to love each other in good times and in bad. I meant those words when I said them that day, but the truth is I didn't really understand their true implication. We were just kids who fell in love and thought the security marriage offered seemed like a pretty solid way to go. But we also respected the institution and wouldn't have bothered getting hitched if we weren't planning on staying together. And even though we were young enough to stay out drinking all night, then go to work the next day without feeling even remotely hungover, my husband and I believed then that marriage was a lifelong commitment and that divorce wasn't really an option.
I know now how naive I was when I repeated my vows that day. Because I distinctly remember looking at our pastor and thinking, "How bad could times get?" Oh, if only I could go back and tell that dewy-skinned bride she would come to know very bad times. I'd tap my dapper new hubby's shoulder and gently whisper in his ear how our fairly naive sense of what fidelity meant would be more than tested. But the wiser, more-hardened-by-life me would also want that beaming, wide-eyed couple to know they'd get through the toughest of times, grow to appreciate their dedication to each other, and respect the sanctity of marriage more than they ever thought possible.
That may sound all glossy and pretty, but know that the word "divorce" has been uttered in our home many times. I whimpered it from the floor of our foyer, where I lay, deeply depressed, after losing a baby late in pregnancy. "How can we stay together when our lives have fallen so spectacularly to pieces?" I wondered, my grief so raw and out in the open, while his was hidden behind a strong exterior as he carried on with his life as if nothing had happened. The word "divorce" was paraded about again during the many months we spent apart due to career obligations. I figured, why keep trying so damn hard to keep our marriage alive if the universe was so intent on forcing us to be apart? There have been other tough times; we were eaten alive by the bad housing market, and we've fought bitterly over in-laws, finances, and, ironically, how we fight so differently from each other. We've been dug down deep in the trenches of raising four kids, working opposite schedules, and subsisting on no sleep, leftovers, and hope things would get just a tad easier.
Here's the beauty of surviving really awful, brutal, miserable, sometimes heartbreaking bad times: you realize that if you were going to split up, you would have done it already.
But here's the beauty of surviving really awful, brutal, miserable, sometimes heartbreaking bad times: you realize that if you were going to split up, you would have done it already. That if you managed to weather all that sh*t - and you've said the worst things to each other, you've thrown the "d" word out, you've cried and driven away, flown away, slept on the sofa, at a hotel, literally been sure you hated the other person for even being born - well, from there, you can exhale. And accept that the two of you are in this - really, truly, 100 percent in it. That there's no splitting up; there's only sticking together through it all. At this point, what we've built is so strong, the bad times don't have a chance to topple our foundation. I'll stop short at saying we laugh in the face of bad times, but you get my point.
It's hard to imagine that something else could happen in the future for us to even consider ending our marriage. Of course, before any of that other stuff happened, it was hard to imagine, too. Unfortunately, you just never know where life will take you, but that's something you're promising to deal with together when you say "I do." So, I'm sure in another decade, I'll be reflecting on the challenges my husband and I have faced. As I contemplate the many highs and lows we will have undoubtedly experienced, I can only hope he is right there by my side. And that we are as devoted to this union then as we are today. And that we have even more reverence for the vows we spoke to each other on our wedding day, all those years ago.
I Had a Huge Wedding - and I Don't Regret It
When people learn I'm Greek-American, their minds often turn to the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding. I'm frequently asked, "Is that movie accurate? Was your wedding like that?" Yes, I respond. All of it. That movie basically sums up my wedding. I even have the pesky brothers who taught my fiancé all of the naughty swear words in Greek.
Planning a wedding can be stressful - particularly when it comes to the guest list. Maybe one partner prefers an intimate affair while the other wants to invite all of the neighbors in the subdivision. In my case, my husband and I knew from the moment we got engaged that our wedding was going to be big - and loud.
When I said "yes" to my not-Greek boyfriend, my mother began planning the biggest, fattest Greek wedding that she could. I had no control over it, and I did not care. My parents raised four very unruly children, and none of us ended up in jail, so my mom earned the right to plan my entire wedding, and it was big. The invite list was over 450 people - that kind of big.
I remember sitting with my then-fiancé in my parents' family room one weekend. We had booked the grand hall, I had picked my dress, and next came the tightening up of other details. "OK," my mom said, bringing out three sheets of paper covered in names. "It's time to talk guest list." She had a certain mischievousness in her voice. I knew exactly what that meant.
"You're inviting the entire church, aren't you, Mom?" I asked.
"Nooo," she said. "But there are many people who we have to invite. So get started on your list, too."
Our list didn't even compare to my parents'. I'll admit that at first, it bothered me a little. My young, selfish mind thought, "Isn't it our wedding? We should get to invite more people than my parents!" But then I realized that the people on this grand guest list helped raise me, too. They wanted to attend my wedding and help us celebrate. Looking back, I feel grateful.
On the big day, when my three brothers opened up the church doors, the congregation was packed - standing room only. Thankfully, it wasn't as uneven as the movie: my husband's side of the church actually had guests in it, too. I felt the love of everyone as I walked down the aisle to the altar and again after we were announced as "husband and wife."
The wedding reception felt like fireworks. My husband and I walked through the doors, and the Greeks lived up to their loud stereotype: cheering, standing, and whistling. After we ate and sauntered through our first dance as a couple, my husband and I floated through the classy decorated hall (not obnoxious, and very blue, like the movie) and greeted every single table. My husband shook the hands of people he had never met, and I hugged them all. We didn't mind taking time out of our night to thank people who wanted to be present at our wedding. We felt the opposite, actually - really freaking grateful.
I don't regret having a big fat Greek wedding at all. Some people may argue that having a large wedding is overly lavish and unnecessary. Sure, you're right. But sometimes, having large weddings is just part of your big, tight-knit culture. I feel honored that my parents could invite all of their closest relatives and friends. They were proud of their one and only daughter, and I was not going to be the one to rob them of that joy. If I had to do it all over again, I would - for my parents. Because sometimes your wedding day is bigger than you.
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