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.
mardi 29 janvier 2019
“Young Kate” From This Is Us Sold Thin Mints From Her Purse at the SAG Awards, Makes the Girl Scouts Proud
If anyone at @SAGawards wants some @girlscouts cookies, I'm at table 34! 🍪 pic.twitter.com/trshppDT49
- Mackenzie Hancsicsak (@MHancsicsak) January 28, 2019
When I grow up, I only hope to be as resourceful as This Is Us star Mackenzie Hancsicsak, who spent Sunday night's SAG Awards ceremony selling Girl Scout Cookies to her fellow actors. While many celebs spent the night chit-chatting with their costars and gearing up for their acceptance speeches, the 10-year-old actress, who plays young Kate Pearson on the NBC drama, took full advantage of the opportunity at hand and came through for anyone who may have been lacking on Thin Mints and Trefoils. "If anyone at @SAGawards wants some @girlscouts cookies, I'm at table 34!" she tweeted alongside a photo of herself holding up a box of Samoas with her costar Parker Bates.
If that's not dedication, I don't know what is. Her Girl Scouts troop - and her TV family - should be proud.
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!
101 Sister Tattoos That Prove She's Your Best Friend in the World
Some best friends you find in life, and some you're born with. There are certain things only your sister can understand, and there's no better (or more lasting) way to show your sisterly love than with matching tattoos that will last a lifetime. We've rounded up creative ideas that will show how deep your bond really goes.
- Additional reporting by Hilary White
Hit the Open Sea With Your Significant Other on the Most Romantic Cruises of 2019
There are few experiences more romantic than setting sail to dreamy destinations with the person you love. Imagine sunset dinners among the ocean breeze, indulgent spa treatments like couples massages and body wraps, incredible vistas, and dancing under the stars. Are you ready to pack your bags yet?! Whether you're in search of a seafaring getaway for an unforgettable holiday, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply because you are in love, read on for the 12 most romantic cruises for sailing away in 2019!
We Can't Stop Looking at This Couple's Steamy Mystic Hot Springs Photo Shoot
The key to a lasting relationship is to make things interesting, and that is exactly what couple Samantha and CJ did. For their four-year anniversary, the pair decided to head to Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe, UT, for a handsy, jaw-dropping photo shoot.
"They're so sweet!" said photographer Tara Ong. "They came all the way from Kansas City to shoot with me."
Posing in very little clothing in a variety of settings - from a cozy home library to an outdoor bathtub - all the two needed was one another to make this boudoir shoot special. Have a look at their sexy photos and get some inspiration for you and your sweetie!
Related: 10 Years of Marriage and 2 Kids Later, This Is How My Husband and I Stay Together
19 Classic Bags That Only Look Expensive
When it comes to our bags, we want pieces that will last, and always look good. That's why we love classic silhouettes in neutral colors; no matter what, our bag will work with our outfit. It's practically science. But, as much as we love bags, we're looking for affordable options that will still leave us swooning. These 19 picks are all under $100, so let's get shopping.
101 Sister Tattoos That Prove She's Your Best Friend in the World
Some best friends you find in life, and some you're born with. There are certain things only your sister can understand, and there's no better (or more lasting) way to show your sisterly love than with matching tattoos that will last a lifetime. We've rounded up creative ideas that will show how deep your bond really goes.
- Additional reporting by Hilary White
Hit the Open Sea With Your Significant Other on the Most Romantic Cruises of 2019
There are few experiences more romantic than setting sail to dreamy destinations with the person you love. Imagine sunset dinners among the ocean breeze, indulgent spa treatments like couples massages and body wraps, incredible vistas, and dancing under the stars. Are you ready to pack your bags yet?! Whether you're in search of a seafaring getaway for an unforgettable holiday, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply because you are in love, read on for the 12 most romantic cruises for sailing away in 2019!
We Can't Stop Looking at This Couple's Steamy Mystic Hot Springs Photo Shoot
The key to a lasting relationship is to make things interesting, and that is exactly what couple Samantha and CJ did. For their four-year anniversary, the pair decided to head to Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe, UT, for a handsy, jaw-dropping photo shoot.
"They're so sweet!" said photographer Tara Ong. "They came all the way from Kansas City to shoot with me."
Posing in very little clothing in a variety of settings - from a cozy home library to an outdoor bathtub - all the two needed was one another to make this boudoir shoot special. Have a look at their sexy photos and get some inspiration for you and your sweetie!
Related: 10 Years of Marriage and 2 Kids Later, This Is How My Husband and I Stay Together
19 Classic Bags That Only Look Expensive
When it comes to our bags, we want pieces that will last, and always look good. That's why we love classic silhouettes in neutral colors; no matter what, our bag will work with our outfit. It's practically science. But, as much as we love bags, we're looking for affordable options that will still leave us swooning. These 19 picks are all under $100, so let's get shopping.
Get Ready For Aquarius Season With These 16 Perfect Gifts
Ready or not, it's Aquarius season. From Jan. 20 through Feb. 18, it's the friendly, inventive air sign's time to shine. If you love an Aquarius, you know that their birthday's right around the corner, and if you want to make them happy, gift them something personal. From a gorgeous constellation pendant to a cozy blanket and trendy diffuser, these 16 gifts will have them feeling very understood.
Chewy Skittles Without a SHELL Are a Real Thing, and Honestly, Who Asked For This?
You ever see a new food on shelves and think, "Who the heck asked for this?" That's how I felt when I laid eyes on Skittles Chewies, aka "naked" Skittles without a shell. What even are Skittles without the crunchy, satisfyingly hard barrier that your teeth sink into before hitting the softer center? I'm not sure I want to find out, but I'm definitely intrigued. Skittles Chewies first became available last year in the UK, and there's no official word on whether or not they'll become available stateside. However, in-the-know grocery shopper Snack Betch recently shared a snap of the candies and wrote, "These are hopefully going to be coming to the US this year." We agree just so we can try them! (I think.) See photos of the polarizing junk food ahead.
Hit the Open Sea With Your Significant Other on the Most Romantic Cruises of 2019
There are few experiences more romantic than setting sail to dreamy destinations with the person you love. Imagine sunset dinners among the ocean breeze, indulgent spa treatments like couples massages and body wraps, incredible vistas, and dancing under the stars. Are you ready to pack your bags yet?! Whether you're in search of a seafaring getaway for an unforgettable holiday, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply because you are in love, read on for the 12 most romantic cruises for sailing away in 2019!
The 15 Hottest Gadgets You Can Buy For Your Home in 2019
If you're all about having the latest and greatest when it comes to gadgets for your home, you've come to the right place. In an effort to make sure you're equipped with the best tools in 2019, we shopped and uncovered 15 cool products that will improve your life one way or another. From security systems to sensor mirrors and Bluetooth shower heads, you'll want it all. Take a look at our favorites ahead.
Get Organized With the 30-Day Declutter Challenge
You've been saying you'll get rid of the clutter in your home for months, but at this rate, no one believes you. Well, show them they're wrong with this declutter challenge that will take your home from messy to impressively organized in just 30 days. And guess what? We have just the thing to make it easier for you - download our printable and check off items as you declutter. You don't even have to start on the first of the month, just start today and follow our plan for the next 30 days. No excuses!
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
This $20 Mouse Pad Hand-Warmer (on Amazon!) Keeps You From Getting Cold at Work
When you're typing and clicking away at work, frozen hands can be pretty annoying. That's where this cool USB-Powered Heating Mouse Pad ($20) comes in. Simply plug it into your computer to heat it up and slide your mouse inside of it. Your fingers will be toasty-warm in no time.
If you work at a chilly office all day or your home can get cold, this mouse pad is a genius purchase. Read on to check out all the details, then snag it from Amazon before it runs out of stock.
These Blocks Let You Build Your Own Life-Size Cat, and How Many Is Too Many?
As a tried-and-true cat lady, there's absolutely nothing I love more than snuggling with one of my five beautiful felines. Although their purrs and superadorable yawns always bring a smile to my face, I've been told by my fiancé that five is more than enough. And while I don't agree with him at all totally get where he's coming from, he never said anything about fake, life-size cats made from blocks.
JEKCA, a Hong Kong-based company, released an entire line of build-your-own cats in 2017, and the detail in each model is absolutely extraordinary. Cat-lovers can choose from a variety of breeds and models posed in different positions, and I need to get them all. Scroll through to get a look at these purrfect works of art, whether you have a love for Persians or are more into tabbys. Oh, and PS, it has building kits for dogs, too!
Your Ultimate Game-Day Grub Guide
It's always game-day season of some kind, and to enter a sports state of mind, we're dreaming of buffalo-flavored provisions, cheesy dips, daytime cocktails, and more - here, we've put it all in one place. If you're trying to figure out what you should make for the Super Bowl if you're having friends over, look no further: meet your ultimate guide to game-day food.
Olive Garden's Serving Never-Ending Stuffed Pasta, and Holy Sh*t, There's a Deep-Fried Option
Olive Garden's Never-Ending Pasta experience has made it back to the table this year in an even bigger and better way. After kicking things up a notch last Summer by offering customers two equally enticing options for its pasta pass deal - guests could either pay $100 for an eight-week experience or $300 for an entire year of noodles - the restaurant just announced the introduction of its Never-Ending "Stuffed" Pasta dishes.
The deal is a build-your-own-pasta type of experience. Guests have the option to create their perfect pasta combination by choosing from four stuffed pastas (one of which is a deep-fried ziti that my body is 100 percent ready to inhale), which are paired with one of four sauces (Alfredo, meat sauce, marinara, or five-cheese marinara) and any five toppings (meatballs, garden veggies, grilled chicken, garlic shrimp fritta, or sautéed shrimp and scallops). In lieu of last year's annual pass experience, customers will pay $12.99 for each Never-Ending Stuffed Pasta entrée, and each one comes with unlimited breadsticks and homemade soup or salad.
The promotion is being offered at Olive Garden locations nationwide from now until March 31. Take a peek at a few pasta combinations ahead if you're ready to drool.
Chewy Skittles Without a SHELL Are a Real Thing, and Honestly, Who Asked For This?
You ever see a new food on shelves and think, "Who the heck asked for this?" That's how I felt when I laid eyes on Skittles Chewies, aka "naked" Skittles without a shell. What even are Skittles without the crunchy, satisfyingly hard barrier that your teeth sink into before hitting the softer center? I'm not sure I want to find out, but I'm definitely intrigued. Skittles Chewies first became available last year in the UK, and there's no official word on whether or not they'll become available stateside. However, in-the-know grocery shopper Snack Betch recently shared a snap of the candies and wrote, "These are hopefully going to be coming to the US this year." We agree just so we can try them! (I think.) See photos of the polarizing junk food ahead.
Hit the Open Sea With Your Significant Other on the Most Romantic Cruises of 2019
There are few experiences more romantic than setting sail to dreamy destinations with the person you love. Imagine sunset dinners among the ocean breeze, indulgent spa treatments like couples massages and body wraps, incredible vistas, and dancing under the stars. Are you ready to pack your bags yet?! Whether you're in search of a seafaring getaway for an unforgettable holiday, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply because you are in love, read on for the 12 most romantic cruises for sailing away in 2019!
The 15 Hottest Gadgets You Can Buy For Your Home in 2019
If you're all about having the latest and greatest when it comes to gadgets for your home, you've come to the right place. In an effort to make sure you're equipped with the best tools in 2019, we shopped and uncovered 15 cool products that will improve your life one way or another. From security systems to sensor mirrors and Bluetooth shower heads, you'll want it all. Take a look at our favorites ahead.
Get Organized With the 30-Day Declutter Challenge
You've been saying you'll get rid of the clutter in your home for months, but at this rate, no one believes you. Well, show them they're wrong with this declutter challenge that will take your home from messy to impressively organized in just 30 days. And guess what? We have just the thing to make it easier for you - download our printable and check off items as you declutter. You don't even have to start on the first of the month, just start today and follow our plan for the next 30 days. No excuses!
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
This $20 Mouse Pad Hand-Warmer (on Amazon!) Keeps You From Getting Cold at Work
When you're typing and clicking away at work, frozen hands can be pretty annoying. That's where this cool USB-Powered Heating Mouse Pad ($20) comes in. Simply plug it into your computer to heat it up and slide your mouse inside of it. Your fingers will be toasty-warm in no time.
If you work at a chilly office all day or your home can get cold, this mouse pad is a genius purchase. Read on to check out all the details, then snag it from Amazon before it runs out of stock.
These Blocks Let You Build Your Own Life-Size Cat, and How Many Is Too Many?
As a tried-and-true cat lady, there's absolutely nothing I love more than snuggling with one of my five beautiful felines. Although their purrs and superadorable yawns always bring a smile to my face, I've been told by my fiancé that five is more than enough. And while I don't agree with him at all totally get where he's coming from, he never said anything about fake, life-size cats made from blocks.
JEKCA, a Hong Kong-based company, released an entire line of build-your-own cats in 2017, and the detail in each model is absolutely extraordinary. Cat-lovers can choose from a variety of breeds and models posed in different positions, and I need to get them all. Scroll through to get a look at these purrfect works of art, whether you have a love for Persians or are more into tabbys. Oh, and PS, it has building kits for dogs, too!
Your Ultimate Game-Day Grub Guide
It's always game-day season of some kind, and to enter a sports state of mind, we're dreaming of buffalo-flavored provisions, cheesy dips, daytime cocktails, and more - here, we've put it all in one place. If you're trying to figure out what you should make for the Super Bowl if you're having friends over, look no further: meet your ultimate guide to game-day food.
Olive Garden's Serving Never-Ending Stuffed Pasta, and Holy Sh*t, There's a Deep-Fried Option
Olive Garden's Never-Ending Pasta experience has made it back to the table this year in an even bigger and better way. After kicking things up a notch last Summer by offering customers two equally enticing options for its pasta pass deal - guests could either pay $100 for an eight-week experience or $300 for an entire year of noodles - the restaurant just announced the introduction of its Never-Ending "Stuffed" Pasta dishes.
The deal is a build-your-own-pasta type of experience. Guests have the option to create their perfect pasta combination by choosing from four stuffed pastas (one of which is a deep-fried ziti that my body is 100 percent ready to inhale), which are paired with one of four sauces (Alfredo, meat sauce, marinara, or five-cheese marinara) and any five toppings (meatballs, garden veggies, grilled chicken, garlic shrimp fritta, or sautéed shrimp and scallops). In lieu of last year's annual pass experience, customers will pay $12.99 for each Never-Ending Stuffed Pasta entrée, and each one comes with unlimited breadsticks and homemade soup or salad.
The promotion is being offered at Olive Garden locations nationwide from now until March 31. Take a peek at a few pasta combinations ahead if you're ready to drool.
Emily Blunt's Hair at the SAG Awards Had the Prettiest Detail You Probably Missed
Emily Blunt blew viewers away on the SAG Awards red carpet with her pretty monochromatic makeup, but in true Mary Poppins fashion, the look was more magical than it seemed. It was when the actress turned around that you could see her ensemble was truly special. The A Quiet Place actress matched her makeup and nails to her pink dress and pulled her hair into a neat chignon. The back of the look revealed a bejeweled hair accessory in an X, squeezing her hair into a rounded hourglass shape.
Blunt's look wasn't at all what we were expecting but was predictably gorgeous. Check out the view ahead.
This Calorie-Saving Hack Makes My Cup of Coffee Taste Sweet Without Any Sugar
Since beginning intermittent fasting over a year and a half ago, I started drinking black coffee, since it's one of the zero-calorie beverages you can enjoy in your fasting window. So many people I talk to say, "I could never give up my coffee with cream and sugar!" Well, this little hack may help.
Whether sipping coffee from a mug or an on-the-go insulated cup, I sprinkle in a generous amount of ground cinnamon. After a good stir, I take a sip, and it tastes much warmer and sweeter than a bold cup of black coffee. It gives it a more decadent treat-like taste and makes me feel like I'm enjoying a cinnamon scone, when it's really just a zero-calorie (or practically zero-calorie), sugar-free drink.
My morning cup of joe isn't the only time I use this sugar-free hack. I sprinkle cinnamon on my Kite Hill unsweetened almond milk yogurt, on hot oatmeal or banana-sweetened overnight oats, on a slice of fresh apple, and on toast smeared with peanut butter. Aside from offering a subtly sweet flavor without sugar, cinnamon offers many health benefits. This spice is loaded with antioxidants and can help rid the body of cancer-causing free radicals. A handful of studies have also shown that cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with healing, chronic inflammation, and more, especially since diabetes and obesity are linked with chronic inflammation.
What's more, in a study that involved eating cinnamon rice pudding (can I sign up for this study?!), the spice helped regulate blood sugar levels and delayed "gastric emptying without affecting satiety." This could mean there's a link between cinnamon and weight loss. Cinnamon for the win! So try this coffee hack, and see what you think. It's a game changer for me!
Curious About the Noom Diet Plan? I've Tried It - Here's What You Should Know
Noom has been dubbed "the Weight Watchers for millennials," at least from its targeted ads on Twitter and Instagram. As the weight-loss program has been buzzing on social media and health sites, I grew more curious: how was it different from other diet plans? What made it effective? Was it really a doable and sustainable program?
The more I read about about the Noom diet app online, the more it seemed like a great resource to not only lose weight, but also develop healthy, lifelong habits. And while I consider myself to have a fairly healthy diet and exercise regimen (I am a fitness editor, after all), there was a lot I could still learn and change. I decided to sign up and see for myself. Just four weeks into the plan, I've already lost five pounds. If you're curious about Noom or thinking about signing up, here's what you should know.
Noom Is More Than Just a Weight-Loss Plan
Noom is an app that was created with the help of registered dietitians and other experts that goes beyond just counting calories and weighing in. The app aims to change your behaviors and reevaluate the thought processes behind the decisions you make. Each day includes a new article on topics such as portion control, staying motivated, identifying your social triggers, and how to decode a restaurant menu. You can also save the articles you like to go back and read again.
Then, you are tasked with a quiz to test your knowledge on what you've learned so far. The quiz is an excellent reinforcement tactic so you maintain all the sciencey information you learned. Plus, the articles frequently reference published studied and are backed-up by research, which my nerd brain loves. Noom also features a database of recipes, which are not only delicious (I personally love the garlic shrimp and kale stir-fry!) but are also easy to track since the calories are already figured out for you.
Your Plan Is Personalized For Your Goals
Before you even get set up on the Noom platform, you are asked a number of questions including your age, sex, height, current diet and exercise habits, your goal weight, and how often you eat. Based on how much weight you want to lose, Noom maps out about how long that will take you. You can also adjust how quickly you want to lose weight: the fastest plan is the lowest calorie target. For me, that was around 1,200 calories a day without exercise and that seemed a little too restrictive, so I adjusted the speed at which I wanted to lose weight and bumped that up to closer to 1,350 calories a day. I typed in that I want to lose 30 pounds and Noom projected that would take me about five months - a perfectly reasonable amount of time to lose 30 pounds.
You Track Your Calories and Activity
Similar to WW (formerly Weight Watchers) or MyFitnessPal, Noom has a food log where you document everything you've eaten in a day. And since you are given a daily calorie allotment, the goal is to stay within your calorie target. To make things easier, the food database on the app includes tons of general foods and specific branded and restaurant options so you can find your meals and snacks easily. If it's not available, there's an option to manually input food including its calories, fat, protein, and carbs.
The app breaks food down into three categories based on how calorie-dense they are: red, yellow, and green. While red food is typically processed and junk food, other healthy options such as nuts and oils are considered red since they are so calorie-dense. In general, you want to load up on yellow (lean meats, starches, eggs) and green (fruits, veggies, most whole grains, complex carbs) foods as much as possible and keep your red to about 25 percent or less of your diet.
Your calorie target is determined based on the data you entered and how quickly you want to lose weight, but if you adjust the amount of time you want to hit your goal weight, your calorie target will also adjust. If you enter your exercise for the day, you will be given more calories to eat (makes sense!). The app also tracks your steps with your phone's built-in pedometer, or you can connect it to your FitBit or Apple Watch.
While some plans encourage you to weigh in every week, Noom asks you to weigh in every day. As someone who is still slightly triggered by the numbers on the scale (I spent my teens obsessively weighing myself several times a day), I instead weigh myself every few days for my own sanity.
You Work With Coaches and a Community of Peers
One reason why Noom is so effective is that you don't feel like you're alone. It's how WW became so successful - the in-person meetings where people share their struggles, victories, and trade tips and tricks. On Noom, the community is virtual: you are set up with a personal coach who checks in on you about once a week to set and assess your goals. For me, it was to meal prep and be better about planning out my meals so I don't veer off track. My coach, Jonee, checks in to see how my planning and progress is going and how to overcome any hurdles I come across.
After the two-week trial period, you are placed in a group with other peers who are about as far along in the program as you are. This group also has a group coach who moderates discussions, posts prompts, and interacts with other group members. While this group forum is a great way to share "slips and surges" (as Noom likes to call them) with a community, it functions almost exactly like a private Facebook group; you can like and comment on other people's posts and everyone is there with the same objective - to create healthy habits and, ultimately, lose weight.
How Much Does Noom Cost?
As of Jan. 28, 2019, the pricing for Noom is:
- Monthly auto-recurring plan: $59
- Two-month auto-recurring plan: $99
- Four-month auto-recurring plan: $129
- Six-month auto-recurring plan: $149
- Eight-month auto-recurring plan: $159
- Annual auto-recurring plan: $199
These prices don't include tax. And you can see the monthly price decreases if you commit to a longer period of time up front.
Vegan Sour Cream Is Now Available in Stores, and Game-Day Nachos Will Never Be the Same
Dairy-free alternatives have fully made their way into the cheese and milk spheres, but vegan sour cream isn't something I'd heard much about until Follow Your Heart released one. Many people know the brand as the pioneer of Vegenaise, and now, those with a dairy intolerance or those following a plant-based diet have another staple to add to their fridge. The secret to Follow Your Heart's Vegan Gourmet Sour Cream is a coconut-cream base that gives the final product a thick and creamy texture. You might be genuinely surprised by how much the container of dairy-free sour cream resembles the original, dairy-packed stuff.
It's made without soy, lactose, preservatives, or gluten, so it's a fantastic option that a lot of people might not have had before. You can find it in many grocery stores nationwide for $6, and if you're not sure where to go, try the brand's store locator. With the Super Bowl coming up, vegan nachos and other vegan game-day snacks will get a major upgrade!
I Ate 1 Avocado Every Day For 2 Weeks to See If It'd Help Me Lose Weight, and Here's What Happened
As a plant-based eater, I'll admit that my high-carb diet (that absolutely includes tons of sweet potatoes, whole grains, and dates), gives me energy for my explosive CrossFit workouts, but I end up feeling hungry soon after eating. Then I end up eating more, which has resulted in about a 10-pound weight gain over the past year or so. And no, it wasn't muscle.
Many experts suggest including healthy fats in your diet to help you feel more satiated, so you eat less. Would this work for me? Registered dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition told POPSUGAR that healthy fats are essential for weight loss because they "keep us full and satisfied since they are digested slower than carbohydrates." Avocados are one of the foods she recommends clients include to help with weight loss.
My Avocado Experiment
I was used to eating half an avocado a few times a week, but I thought: what if I ate one whole avocado every single day? How would I feel? Would it keep me fuller longer? Would I end up eating fewer daily calories? Would I lose weight? Or, because they're high in calories, would I gain weight? I got out my pink Himalayan sea salt, a sharp knife, and a spoon, and was ready to see what would happen.
There's a Nationwide Recall on Fruits Sold at Costco, Walmart, and Aldi - Here's the Lowdown
If your New Year's resolution is to eat more fruit in 2019, then you definitely need to be aware of this nationwide recall news. Tons of fresh peaches, plums, and nectarines sold in 18 different states are being recalled due to a potential listeria contamination. New York-based distributor Jac. Vandenberg Inc. issued the recall on Jan. 24 after detecting traces of the bacteria during a routine sampling of its fruits.
According to the company's announcement, the possibly contaminated fruits were sold at Aldi, Costco, Walmart, Hannaford, Market Basket, and Fairway Market stores in the following states: Alabama, California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Below is a full breakdown of which stores were selling which affected fruits in which states.
Retailer: Aldi
- Fruit recalled: Nectarines, peaches, and plums
- States affected: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia
Retailer: Costco
- Fruit recalled: Nectarines
- States affected: California
Retailer: Walmart
- Fruit recalled: Nectarines and peaches
- States affected: Nectarines in Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia; peaches in Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia
Retailer: Fairway Market
- Fruit recalled: Nectarines and peaches
- States affected: New York
Retailer: Hannaford
- Fruit recalled: Peaches
- States affected: Maine
Retailer: Market Basket
- Fruit recalled: Nectarines and peaches
- States affected: Massachusetts
To decide whether you should toss your recently purchased nectarines, peaches, or plums in the trash, be sure to inspect the stickers and packaging first. The peaches and nectarines under scrutiny were raised in Chile, were sold in bulk, and bear a sticker with one of the following numbered PLU codes: 4044, 3035, or 4378. The peaches, plums, and nectarines sold specifically at Aldi were packaged in a two-pound bag and bear the brand name Rio Duero and one of the following EAN numbers (aka barcodes): 7804650090281, 7804650090298, or 7804650090304. Meanwhile, the Costco nectarines in question were sold in a four-pound plastic clamshell container with the EAN number 7804650090212 and brand name Rio Duero.
Although no associated illnesses have been reported yet, the FDA's comments on the risk of listeria infection are likely enough to make you want to triple-check your fruit labels. "Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women," the official recall reads. Time for a refrigerator clean-out!
7 Padded Sports Bras That Will Keep You More Supported Than Ever
Whether you're looking for a little extra lift up top or you just like the extra support, padded sports bras are the way to go. But finding the perfect fit for an ideal price is easier said than done. To make it easier on you, we uncovered seven supportive and comfortable choices for your next sweat session. Keep scrolling to shop.
This $15 Foam Roller Eased My Plantar Fasciitis Pain, and I'm Fully Obsessed
I've always had a love-hate relationship with my feet. I love them for what they do for me (allow me to dance, train, get killer foot massages), but I hate how wide they are (my extrawide sneakers have to be ordered online), how beat up they look, and how they never seem to fit into a pair of heels. Yet what pains me the most is, well, the pain.
I have plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the tissue that runs along the sole of your foot, from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed. "Most commonly, [plantar fasciitis] feels like a sharp stabbing pain on the inside heel of your foot," Dana Canuso, MD, a podiatric surgeon, explained in an interview. And while working out every day and constantly being on my feet certainly doesn't help, the pain can actually be worse when you've been sitting still for long stretches. "A hallmark complaint is that it hurts the worst the first step out of bed in the morning or when you stand up after sitting down for a while," Dr. Canuso said.
After some kicking and screaming (and OK, crying) on my part, the therapist explained that I had a buildup of calcium deposits in my heels.
Not long ago, I went for a massage appointment, and after some kicking and screaming (and OK, crying) on my part, the therapist explained that I had a buildup of calcium deposits in my heels, likely from the plantar fasciitis, that would need to be released with time. So when I was given the opportunity to try some foam rollers from Gaiam a few weeks later, I immediately latched onto one designed specifically for the feet.
"Using a foam roller on inflammation has many benefits, including increased circulation to the area. This helps with tissue repair and myofascial release, which helps to 'stretch' the tightened, sore area," Dr. Canuso explained.
Hopeful that my new friend would help ease the pain and even prevent it from flaring up again, I decided to give it a try. I rolled my feet for the first time the evening the foam roller arrived and noticed a difference in my arches right away. Rolling my heels was excruciating, which was to be expected this early on. But I kept at it for a week, and each time I rolled those pressure points, the tension and pain seemed to lessen a bit.
I'll admit it hurt, but get this: I haven't had a single flare-up from my plantar fasciitis since this foam roller arrived in the mail. Not one. I don't know if I'm cured of plantar fasciitis or if I'll ever have another painful episode again, but I haven't felt any pain in my feet since I began using the roller each day after my workout as a preventative measure.
Before using the roller, I would climb out of bed and almost jump as my feet hit the ground, then move slowly around my apartment for about five minutes before the tension let up. Now, I get out of bed and walk naturally, without any discomfort. I can pound my feet in my workout classes and dance as much as I want with my friends on a Saturday night. I can speed walk when I'm running a little late (which is basically all the time). I'm not exaggerating when I say that it has changed my life - keep reading for a closer look.
Halle Berry's Workout Playlist Is Perfect For Anyone Tired of Listening to the Same 3 Songs
When we know we have a tough workout coming up, we always make sure to have a great playlist ready to get through the burpees, sprints, and one-minute planks.
If curating a playlist takes you an eternity to do, you're in luck. In her most recent "Fitness Friday" post, Halle Berry shared her workout playlist and you've definitely got to download these songs ASAP. The playlist features songs from Coco, Teyana Taylor's "Gonna Love Me," and "Survivor" by Destiny's Child.
Check out her top picks ahead and then listen to it as you do one of her workouts:
You'll Never Awkwardly Pull a Sports Bra Over Your Head Again With These Brilliant Front-Close Options
Whether you're looking for a supportive sports bra with extra lift or need an easy-to-wear option you don't have to yank over your head, front-close sports bras are the underrated workout piece you never knew you were missing.
Convenient, no-fuss, and available in just as many fun colors and prints as your typical sports bras, front-close styles mean you don't have to deal with struggling to get it off after an especially sweaty Spin class (because we all know that's the worst . . . and can lead to extra wear-and-tear on your bras!). Check out the following options, and prepare to never look back.
24 Delicious Vegan Foods You Can Buy on Amazon, Because Food Shopping Should Be Easy
Food shopping for dairy-free or vegan options isn't always easy. If you often find yourself scouring through the grocery store and only uncovered a small selection of items, try turning to Amazon. The retailer carries tons of vegan-friendly options from cookies to jerky and even mac and cheese. The best part: they're delivered fresh to your door. Keep scrolling to shop our favorite delicious finds.
Watch the Awe-Inspiring Free-Skate Routine That Won Nathan Chen His Third National Title
Stunning. Elegant. Awe-inspiring. Beyoncé-level flawless. There truly aren't enough words in the dictionary to describe Nathan Chen's free-skate routine at the 2019 US Figure Skating Championships. The 19-year-old athlete earned his third consecutive national title on Jan. 27 after captivating the audience (and the judges) with a performance set to "Land of All" by Woodkid. Nathan started the routine with a bang by landing a quadruple lutz, and he went on to execute three more quad jumps to perfection, earning him a total score of 228.80 points.
Somewhat ironically, when Nathan headed to the podium to accept his gold medal, he tripped over the rug situated on top of the ice rink. LOL! But hey, at least he didn't lose his footing during the competition. Ahead, watch Nathan's medal-winning free-skate routine, followed by a clip of his oh-so-relatable stumble. Congrats to the reigning champ!
Tone Your Butt While Torching Calories With This Elliptical Workout
Save time at the gym and power up your cardio to do double duty with this elliptical workout. Upping the incline on the machine targets the glutes and hamstrings while raising your heart rate. That's right! You can torch some serious calories while toning your backside. Remember, pressing through your heels when you're on the elliptical will make the glute muscles work even more.
| Time | Resistance | Incline | SPM* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0:00 to 2:30 | 3.0 | 5.0 | 110 to 130 |
| 2:30 to 5:00 | 5.0 | 7.0 | 120 to 130 |
| 5:00 to 10:00 | 9.0 | 11.0 | 130 to 140 |
| 10:00 to 15:00 | 9.0 | 13.0 | 130 to 140 |
| 15:00 to 20:00 | 9.0 | 15:00 | 130 to 140 |
| 20:00 to 25:00 | 11.0 | 15.0 | 120 to 130 / Go backward |
| 25:00 to 30:00 | 9.00 | 15.0 | 130 to 140 / Go forward |
| 30:00 to 32:30 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 120 to 130 |
| 32:30 to 35:00 | 3.0 | 5.0 | 120 to 130 |
*SPM = Strides Per Minute
Click here for an image-free, printable version of the workout to take to the gym!
We Talked to a Nutritionist to Get the Skinny on Drinking Water For Weight Loss
Back in 2016, a study went viral because it promised a simple, easy way to lose weight: simply drink 16 ounces of water before eating. Since then, the tip has found its way into nearly every article about weight loss. Obviously, being hydrated is important, but does it actually help you in your weight-loss efforts? POPSUGAR spoke to Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, CLC of Maya Feller Nutrition, a registered dietitian and nutritionist who works with patients who need weight management and those looking for nutritional management of diet-related chronic illnesses.
"There is some research that supports the statement that drinking water prior to a meal may result in a decrease in energy intake and therefore mild to moderate weight loss," Feller said, noting that other studies found that this effect is so variable from person to person that it's not reliable. "Is this something that I suggest for my patients? No," she added. "I would rather we work to identify internal hunger and satiety rather than preloading [the body] with water."
You should still strive to be adequately hydrated, regardless of your weight-loss goals. Dehydration can affect your mood and cause headaches and fatigue - not to mention, one study found a link between inadequate hydration and risk of obesity.
While the ideal daily water intake varies from person to person, "the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined men should aim for 125 ounces daily and women should aim for 91 ounces daily," said Feller. Factors like age, gender, physical activity, climate, and health status can cause your daily needs to fluctuate. The easiest way to tell if you're properly hydrated, Feller said, is to look at your urine. "Urine that is dark in color can be an indication that you haven't had enough water and conversely clear urine can be a sign that you are overhydrating. Rather, the ideal is a pale yellow," she said.
But here's the thing about plain water: it's really boring to drink. If you struggle to drink enough water throughout the day, Feller suggested unsweetened herbal tea as an alternative. You can also infuse water with herbs and fruit to make it more flavorful.
If your problem is forgetfulness, she recommended setting a reminder on your phone or computer, or keeping a reusable water bottle on your desk. If you go this route, just remember to wash the bottle - because it's dark and damp, it's a breeding ground for bacteria. And whatever you do, please (please!), don't drink it like this.
I Pee When I Jump Rope, and Guess What? It's OK!
There used to be a running joke in my house: every time I'd laugh too hard or sneeze, I'd have to run upstairs, and my kids would yell, "Mommy peed in her pants again!" Through CrossFit, specifically from doing heavy squats and core work, it's helped to strengthen my pelvic floor, similarly to how kegels work. My legs, butt, and abs are the strongest they've ever been, and apparently so are my inner lady muscles. Now, I can sneeze without having to bee-line it to the bathroom.
But one exercise that I recently started working on has brought back that unexpected, embarrassing little annoyance - double unders. It's a more intense form of jumping rope that involves letting the rope pass underneath your feet twice in between each jump instead of just once as with regular jumping rope. They're super fun to work on, not only for the physical challenge to see how many I can nail in a row, but also because they make my heart rate soar, so I know I'm working hard.
The only issue is, once I got eight or more in a row, pee would just leak out of me. The first time it happened in class, I ran to the bathroom. Then I picked up my rope and started jumping again. But even with an empty bladder, I ended up peeing a little. I was like, "Where the heck is this pee coming from?"
After that, feeling flustered and worried about Niagara Falls pouring down my leggings, I avoided double unders for a few weeks, until I talked to some other CrossFit moms about it. Every single one of them nodded their heads up and down, totally relating. Some said it happens when they do box jumps, too, and another woman said it happens every time she does heavy squats. It's just one of those amazing "gifts" to remind us of motherhood.
Knowing I wasn't alone made me feel 99 percent better. The other one percent came from wearing a pantyliner and dark pants every time I went to class. It was slightly annoying, but much better than dealing with the fear of my bladder exploding during class and having a rush of pee trickle down my leg into a puddle on the floor.
Now, I always make time to hit the ladies room before a workout involving jumping rope; sometimes I even take a pee break during a workout if I need to. But what's really helped me come to terms with peeing while exercising is that I changed my whole perspective. I focus on the fact that I'm grateful for being a mom to two healthy, kind kids, that I have the physical ability to take part in CrossFit classes. Compared to other things that could happen, a little pee is nothing!
I'm a Trainer, and This Is How Often You Should Be Working Out If You Want to Lose Weight
There are a few questions I always get asked once people find out I'm a trainer. The first is, "How often do you work out (if you really want to know, read this)"; then it's, "How can I get lean (here's what an expert has to say about that)"; and the third questions is, "How often should I be working out to [insert goal here]." Most of the time that goal is weight loss, and although I try to focus on things like becoming more functional and stronger with clients, I know it's a genuine question people have.
How Often Beginners Should Work Out For Weight Loss
In general, I try to avoid the one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to health and wellness because we're all different. Typically, for a true beginner (someone who has been sedentary and never worked out), I recommend two to three workouts a week. This may sound like a lot, especially for someone who is new to fitness, but I design the workouts to be performed at a moderate intensity. An example of this could be lower body, upper body, and total body with a day of rest in between each. If you want to do more, use your rest days to do low-intensity activities, like yoga or simply walking more.
At this stage, quality over quantity is preferred. I recommend paying attention to how you're handling the workouts and how your body feels. If you're extremely sore and can't move, that's a good indicator to scale back. If your workouts feel easy and you're never sore, that's an indicator to increase your load and intensity.
I recommend focusing on total-body workouts that incorporate a cardio aspect. Consider using the StairMaster, doing treadmill sprints, or doing strength workouts with shorter rest periods.
How Often Intermediate/Advanced People Should Work Out For Weight Loss
For those with experience working out (someone who has an understanding of the fundamentals and a general exercise foundation), I recommend between three and five sessions a week. Because you're doing more sessions per week, there's a lot you can with your programming. I like to break up workouts by muscle groups and also mix up the style of training. One day, it may be a circuit, a sprint and explosive power session the next day, followed by total body, then a conditioning workout. This is just an example, and similar to beginners, it's important to listen to your body. If you aren't recovering or eating well, it's going to be hard to sustain this load.
Other Things to Consider When Working Out For Weight Loss
Ultimately, how often you should train will come down to your goals, what you like and dislike, and your physical abilities. As always, remember that these are general guidelines, and every trainer will have a different approach. During your weight-loss journey, it's important to remember that everyone will respond differently to exercise. Someone may work out two times a week and lose six pounds in a month, while someone else could work out four times a week and only lose three pounds.
Second, nutrition is equally as important as your workout routine. In my opinion, there isn't a perfect diet to follow - find one that you like and can sustain long-term. And just in case you were wondering, you don't have to follow a complicated or extremely restrictive diet like, the keto diet. As a nutrition coach, I generally advise clients to begin eating more whole, minimally processed foods before tackling more complex ways of eating.
Results won't happen overnight; stay focused on your goals, find what works best for you, and be patient and consistent. If you don't have a trainer and aren't sure what to do, start with any of these workout plans:
You Won't Be Able to Stop Scrolling Through These 50-Pound Weight-Loss Transformations
If you have at least 50 pounds to lose, find motivation to stay on the fit and healthy path by seeing these women's before-and-after photos. They've each lost 50 pounds and feel amazing! Bookmark this page for when you feel like giving up. These women put in the work and it was worth it - always a good reminder to help you keep going.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
12 Leggings With Pockets, Because We've Got Things to Do
Leggings without pockets are my number one pet peeve. Without pockets, where exactly am I supposed to keep my essentials while I work out? Since I'm not running with a fanny pack, I need a place for my keys, credit card, ID, and phone. If, like me, you find the concept of leggings sans pockets unnerving and just plain wrong, you've got to shop these 12 pairs.
This Is the 1 Dumbbell Exercise I Do at Home That Leaves My Butt the Most Sore
If you have a pair of dumbbells, you can do this one exercise at home (or anywhere!) that will instantly target the butt and hamstrings. The classic deadlift is simple but intense. Be sure to challenge yourself and go for a heavier weight if you really want to build your booty.
I like to use 25 pounders and do this deadlift and push-up workout. It's one of my favorites because the next day, I can always count on my legs and butt being crazy sore!
When doing dumbbell deadlifts, you bend your knees to lower the weights. Do not keep the legs straight, because you'll end up straining your back. Here's how to do the dumbbell deadlift properly.
Dumbbell Deadlift
- Stand with the feet hip-distance apart.
- Hold a dumbbell in each hand by your sides with straight arms.
- Push your butt back as you bend the knees, squatting down just enough to tap the front end of the dumbbell to the floor. Keep your back straight, not curved or arched. Your chest should be parallel with the floor.
- Straighten your legs to stand up.
- This completes one rep.
15 Pairs of Leggings to Power Your Indoor Cycling Habit
Indoor cycling is one of our favorite workouts, but it requires a specific pair of leggings. Namely, ones that are sweat-wicking, high-waisted, and thick enough so they won't be see-through. You're in luck, because we've got the pair for you. Well, actually, we've got 15 pairs, because we've got you covered.
We'll Make Your Day With 5 Words: Trader Joe's Vegan Sandwich Cookies
If you were excited about Trader Joe's Vegan Sunflower Seed Butter Cups, we have great news for you and your sweet tooth: everyone's favorite crunchy-fresh grocery store also sells vegan sandwich cookies that look like they'd do a number on our self-control.
According to the Trader Joe's Vegan Instagram account (@traderjoesvegan), these treats come in two flavors: Lemon Crème and Chocolate Brownie & Vanilla Crème. Each bag of four reportedly costs $4.29. The user behind this popular account told POPSUGAR that these cookies were spotted at a Trader Joe's in Portland, OR.
"I've only had a chance to try the lemon and I really liked them," the user said. "They reminded me of the lemon Girl Scout cookies." However, based on the comments that have flooded her post overnight, the brownie ones are a true hit.
Nutritional information, seen in full on the upcoming slides, differs slightly for each flavor. Each Lemon Crème sandwich cookie has 320 calories, 12 grams of fat, and four grams of protein. One Chocolate Brownie & Vanilla Crème sandwich cookie has 340 calories, 16 grams of fat, and four grams of protein.
If we were you, we'd run to the nearest store ASAP. Anything for dairy-free fluffy cookies filled with cream, right?
13 Bodyweight Exercises That Keep Me Strong After 10 Years as a Competitive Gymnast
I did gymnastics for 15 years growing up and competed for 10. To quote Stick It, "The things gymnasts do make Navy SEALs look like wusses. And we do them without a gun!" Don't get me wrong, I was no Simone Biles or Katelyn Ohashi, but I had abs of steel and a love for the sport.
I never wanted to let go of striving to compete on the collegiate level, but when I realized my body couldn't handle the strain, I had to change my perspective and find another way to stay in shape. That's when I became a gym rat (and yes, I was that girl who did splits in the corner during my cooldowns).
Before the end of every gymnastics practice, we'd do half-hour sessions of conditioning. This included a lot of bodyweight exercises that kept our arms, abs, and quads strong so that, after flying through the air, we'd land on our feet safely. Here are the moves I still incorporate into my sweat sessions today. Add a few - some of which you'll recognize - to your next workout for an extra challenge.
Related: These Gymnasts' Floor Routines Are So Good, We Can't Stop Watching
15 Workouts That Will Help You Burn Fat and Build Muscle - It's Time to Work
If you're looking for ways to reduce your body fat and build muscle, we suggest doing workouts that target multiple muscle groups and elevate your heart rate. You also have to make sure your nutrition is on point. If you aren't sure what type of workouts to do, take our recommendations and try any of the 15 workouts ahead.
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