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.
samedi 2 février 2019
14-Year-Old Marsai Martin Is Set to Become the Youngest Executive Producer in History
Black-ish star Marsai Martin is about to make history. The 14-year-old actress is gearing up to be the youngest executive producer of a major Hollywood movie in history. You read that right. She's 14, and she's out here making movies (and starring in them). Whew. She'll bear the title when her film Little, starring Insecure's Issa Rae and Girls Trip's Regina Hall, hits theaters this Spring.
The movie centers around a woman named Jordan Sanders (Hall), whose callous behavior causes her to become cursed by a little girl. Jordan then turns back into her 13-year-old self (Martin), who must relive her childhood. In an interview with The Root, Martin confirmed that the movie is inspired by Tom Hank's 1988 classic Big. "It was one of my most favorite films growing up," she said. "After the [season one] finale of Black-ish, we told Kenya Barris about it, and he called Will [Packer] and said: 'Yo, you know the girl who plays Diane on Black-ish? She has this dope idea!'"
Martin tweeted about her excitement for fans to see the film after the trailer dropped in January. "So happy to finally be able to share the trailer, so proud of the things accomplished since we started this and eternally grateful to you guys for listening when others didn't take us seriously," she wrote.
So happy to finally be able to share the trailer, so proud of the things accomplished since we started this and eternally grateful to you guys for listening when others didn't take us seriously ♥️ @TracyYOliver https://t.co/gFvElJrgGu
- Marsai Martin (@marsaimartin) January 10, 2019
I wonder what those people who didn't take her seriously were doing at 14 years old. Certainly not producing Hollywood films, that's for sure. Watch the trailer for Little before it hits theaters on April 12!
vendredi 1 février 2019
This Is How to Throw a Galentine's Day Party Your Girlfriends Will Never Forget!
If you're single this Valentine's Day, why not celebrate with your best girlfriends? Let's be real here: you may be in and out of relationships, but your best friends are always by your side. If you are looking for some inspiration to throw a spectacular Galentine's Day party, then look no further than this amazing Galentine's Day-themed photo shoot.
This party shoot is awash in an array of pink-toned colors and features food and travel bloggers from Austin, TX. "The color palettes for this theme was: blush pink, cream, and neutrals with accents of coral and rose gold," said photographer Gina Park, who orchestrated this shoot. "I wanted the celebration to have a bohemian lounge feel to the morning that would allow for an easy transition from sips and treats to painting. The painting elements were played throughout the decor, from the hand-printed invites, signage, and table runner, to the mini easels with the individual names of each blogger that replaced traditional place cards."
The shoot took place at the Prospect House, which provided the team with a lovely, bright, open-concept space filled with natural lighting. The desserts and sweet treats were provided by a local bakery and the highlight was a strawberry-and-vanilla cake with pink frosted flowers. Even if you're not planning a Galentine's Day party, there are lots of ideas that could work for a pretty bridal shower.
Keep reading and keep an eye out for all of the beautiful details.
These 10 Packing Cubes Make Traveling a Breeze - Even For Chronic Overpackers
Hot take: if you don't pack properly, your entire trip will start off on the wrong foot. In the security line, you'll be rummaging through a jumbled pile of socks, leggings, and underwear to find your toiletries. On the plane, you'll hold up the boarding process while you jam your overstuffed carry-on into the overhead bin. Even once you get to the hotel, you won't be able to dig out your favorite pair of jeans without emptying the entire suitcase.
Sure, small-suitcase packing tips, vacation checklists, and packing systems can help you figure out what to bring, but they won't keep you organized. For that, you need to invest in a few packing cubes. These simple yet genius fabric organizers allow you to separate your belongings into different compartments within your suitcase for easy packing and unpacking once you get to your destination. Here's why you need to try out these handy organizers - plus, 10 of the best packing cubes out there.
102 Creative Tattoos You'll Want to Get With Your Best Friend
If your best friend is TRULY a BFF, she'll make it permanent and get inked with you. After all, your friendship never happened unless you get a tattoo and Instagram it, am I right? We scoured the web to find the best tattoos between friends for you to use as an inspirational guide. Check it out and send your fave idea over to your main bestie. Don't worry, it will only hurt a little . . .
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Haley Lyndes
My Best Friend Broke Up With Me and I'm Still Not Over It
Breaking up is hard to do, just like the old Neil Sedaka song says. But as painful as my breakups with former lovers were, they pale in comparison to the sorrow I feel over losing my best friend.
I first met my bestie - let's call her Kim - in second grade. I still remember watching the moving van pull up to the little blue house across the street that had sported a "for sale" sign for the longest time. My older brother and sister both had friends in the neighborhood, but no one under the age of 12 lived within walking distance. I prayed that the new family would bring me a friend, and literally started dancing when I spied a little girl emerge from the van.
I begged my mom to let me go over and introduce myself, but she made me wait until the next day, so the newcomers had a chance to get settled. When my mom and I finally headed over with a casserole, Kim and I hit it off.
We shared many years of happiness throughout elementary, middle, and high school, and after college graduation, we reunited and shared the same apartment for a year. Everything came crashing down when her boyfriend - we'll call him Matt - entered Kim's life, changing and eventually ending our near-lifelong friendship.
Something seemed off. What my bestie saw in him, I'll likely never understand.
Matt played football back in high school, and from what I could tell, often started his day with a can of beer. He believed internet conspiracy theories he saw on social media and spoke at length about the race of reptilian aliens he believed were dwelling in the tunnels under our airport. Matt couldn't hold down steady employment, because he kept getting fired for drinking on the job. Something seemed off. What my bestie Kim saw in Matt, I'll likely never understand.
Their relationship seemed unhealthy from the beginning. Matt didn't want Kim going to our regular Zumba class after work because the other men in the gym might ogle her. He wouldn't let Kim go out for drinks unless he was invited, too - and as no one in our group of friends really liked to spend time with him, that led to her staying home and missing out most of the time. He constantly accused Kim of cheating on him, insisting she said things she never had, denying her version of events and making her doubt her own perceptions. Little by little, Kim caved to Matt's increasingly ridiculous demands to avoid accusations of infidelity. The proverbial sh*t finally hit the fan when he insisted she move out of our shared apartment so they could move in together.
I begged Kim not to rush into cohabiting. I reminded her that just a week ago, Matt complained about his inability to come up with rent money. I pleaded with her, telling her over and over again that if he truly loved her the way he claimed to, he'd respect her desire to wait a bit longer before moving in together. But she didn't want to listen, and she finally exploded, insisting that I either accept the fact that she wanted to spend her life with him or get out of her life entirely.
A lot of angry words were exchanged, and I probably said things about her boyfriend that I shouldn't have
A lot of angry words were exchanged, and I probably said things about her boyfriend that I shouldn't have. She grabbed her recently-packed suitcases and stormed out of our apartment. Two days later, Matt showed up at my door to collect her books and other items she'd left behind. Kim sat outside in his pickup truck the whole time, refusing to talk things out.
Losing my best friend felt terrible. Having been through a relationship like hers, I recognized the warning signs of emotional abuse. I still wondered if I did the right thing by speaking up or if I should have blindly supported her decisions. It's not like I ever asked her to choose between the two of us, but I suppose she couldn't stomach the fact that I didn't like the man she wanted to be with.
Since the night she left, Kim has unfriended me on social media. She texted me once to tell me to leave her alone, and that was it. I don't know if Kim still refuses to take my calls out of anger or if Matt imposed another rule on her to ignore my attempts to contact her. Not knowing how she is keeps me awake at night. I want to make sure she's safe and loved.
Friends in our group have told me they've seen her here and there and she seems okay, but remorse over what I could have done to save our friendship fills my days, and anxiety over what kind of life Kim has now leaves me staring at the clock in the middle of the night. I hope she knows I'm here if she needs me, and that I will continue to check in on her from afar even if she doesn't want to see me.
If a genie suddenly popped out of a bottle, I wouldn't even ask for all three wishes, just one: to have my best friend back.
If you or a loved one are in need of any help, the Office on Women's Health has several resources here, including links to national hotlines.
Still Don't Have a Valentine's Day Present? Your Guy Will Love One of These 14 Gifts
Did Valentine's Day just sort of creep up on you? Us too. But instead of freaking out and just buying the guy in your life the first thing you see, take a deep breath. We've scoured the internet for 14 amazing presents he'll definitely smile over. The best part? They all have quick shipping options. Consider this one less thing to worry about.
Criticisms of the Women Running For President in 2020 Are Fair - but at What Cost?
You don't have to be a political scientist to see there's something unique about the field of 2020 Democratic presidential candidates: three major candidates - and arguably the most viable and influential people who have announced campaigns so far - are women.
The first US senators to announce their presidential bids are Elizabeth Warren, Kirsten Gillibrand, and Kamala Harris - all Democratic women. (Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has also announced a run, but her past opposition to gay rights has disqualified her among most Democratic voters. Recent reports say the Gabbard campaign is already in peril.)
Getting Married? Spice Up Your Engagement and Wedding Photos With This Trendy Accessory
Looking to step away from a hectic day job, Heather of Dearly Threaded purchased a commercial embroidery machine, set up an Etsy shop, and never looked back. Although the Dearly Threaded Etsy shop lists fun dad hats and swoon-worthy tote bags, the 29-year-old creative, who is getting married in June, wanted to come up with a ton of listing ideas for brides-to-be like her. This is when her bestselling custom denim jackets were born.
"I started embroidery professionally in 2017 to be able to quit my draining job," Heather told POPSUGAR. "My custom denim jackets quickly became my bestseller. They're a cute prop for the wedding and a special keepsake after, which I love."
Heather's shop lists several denim jackets with design variations, but her "Mrs." jackets in particular, which showcase the bride-to-be's future last name, have been what's kept her working overtime in her embroidery studio. The jackets have been featured in her customers' engagement and wedding photos, and the reviews on the listings are glowing.
When your wedding day has come and gone, and your stunning white dress has been hung up in the closet, one of these denim jackets can stay firmly in your wardrobe rotation and remind you of your special day every time you slip it on. So basically, NEED.
Check out all of the available styles below!
12 Valentine's Day Gifts That Will Win You Points For Creativity
Ready or not, Valentine's Day is upon us, and finding the perfect gift is half the battle. While flowers are always lovely, finding something personal and creative will make your SO smile and know that you thought of them. If you're looking to do something a little different this year, try one of these 12 gifts.
Remember That Rose Gold Minnie-Ears Necklace? Now There Are Matching Earrings!
Disney has been speaking to the rose gold lover in all of us lately. After releasing a brand new necklace in the shape of those viral rose gold Minnie Mouse ears at Disney parks last Summer, the brand is at it again - this time with matching rings and stud earrings. Rebecca Hook, the jewelry designer and mastermind behind the original headband necklace, recently debuted the new items at her Disney-themed trunk show, explaining in an Instagram post that the new pieces were created as a result of high demand from fans.
"You spoke we listened," she wrote. "Rose Gold Headband Mini studs and ring at park locations next week!" The rose-gold jewelry pieces are available now at Walt Disney World, and the headband earrings can be purchased via Disney's online store.
Trying to Cut Carbs? You Can Still Enjoy a Beer, If You Choose From the Ones on This List
There are scenes in life that just seem better with a beer in hand, like tailgating before a football game, attending a concert or bonfire on the beach, or occasionally just chilling at home on a random Tuesday night. Plus, we live in a world where pink unicorn beer is a thing. And you can make it yourself! Who can resist? Answer: no one.
While it's perfectly fine to indulge from time to time, we wouldn't be doing our jobs if we let you pop the top on a cold one without having all the facts. For those who are trying to cut carbs but still want to savor a brew or two, we've put together a list of the beers with the fewest amount of carbohydrates per serving, based on a 12-ounce can, bottle, or pour. We've also broken it down by calories, because that's important to know too, especially if you're trying to lose weight.
| BRAND | CARBS (GRAMS) | CALORIES |
|---|---|---|
| Budweiser Select 55 | 1.8 | 55 |
| Molson Canadian 67 | 2.0 | 67 |
| Miller 64 | 2.4 | 64 |
| Michelob Ultra | 2.6 | 95 |
| Budweiser Select | 3.1 | 99 |
| Natural Light | 3.2 | 95 |
| Heineken 0.0 | 3.2 | 42 |
| Coors Light | 5.0 | 102 |
| Amstel Light | 5.0 | 95 |
| Corona Light | 5.0 | 99 |
| Bud Light | 6.6 | 110 |
| Labatt Blue Light | 7.9 | 112 |
| Pabst Blue Ribbon Light | 8.3 | 113 |
| Labatt Blue | 9.1 | 132 |
| Sam Adams Light | 9.6 | 119 |
| Rolling Rock Extra Pale Lager | 9.8 | 130 |
| O'Doul's Non-Alcoholic | 13.3 | 65 |
| Labatt Non-Alcoholic | 14.5 | 72 |
This Essential Oil Diffuser Helped Ease My Stress When Nothing Else Worked
Between facing a job loss, becoming self-employed, and learning a lot more about myself than I could have ever imagined, let's just say last year was one for the books. I searched high and low for ways to calm my anxieties and stay focused on the positive, but nothing seemed to work. I tried every standard remedy, and yet what ultimately brought me some peace of mind wasn't meditation or CBD, but essential oils.
I was about two months into working as a full-time freelancer - and having a hard time adjusting to life without a 9-to-5 - when a friend mentioned how much she loved her essential oil diffuser. I had tried and tested essential oils during my days as a beauty editor, and while I was curious about their healing properties, I never really knew what to do with them. That didn't stop me from being intrigued by a diffuser, especially since my friend told me that the scents and steam helped her feel calmer. I figured, if nothing else had worked to help me find my Zen, it couldn't hurt to try it.
I did some research on essential oil diffusers, which helped me create a wish list: anything I purchased would need to mist for several hours, and it couldn't be noisy or distribute heat throughout the room. I ultimately settled on a diffuser from Saje Natural Wellness because it checked all the boxes and the brand also offered plenty of essential oils, including lavender, eucalyptus, and lemongrass.
Related: I Absolutely Suck at Sleeping, and This Is What Finally Helped Me Rest
For those of you who are unfamiliar with how these diffusers work, here's a bit of a breakdown. You fill a small compartment of the diffuser with water, then add your essential oils. It's advised that you add around 10 to 15 drops of oil into the water, depending on how intense you'd like the aroma. You then turn on the diffuser to activate the steam, and within a few minutes, you'll notice the scent and steam begin to fill the room. Essential oil diffusers typically don't use heat, so you're getting the oils in a very pure form.
The first time I tried the diffuser, I opted for lavender, since it's known to help reduce stress. I'd be lying if I said my anxieties melted away the moment I let some oils stream into the air, but I did find that I was able to get my work done at a better pace. It felt good to make self-care more of a priority, and although the scent wasn't my favorite, I knew I wanted to try the diffuser again.
This isn't to say that the essential oils have removed those feelings entirely - that's just not how anxiety works - but they have helped me cope better than other methods I've tried.
I set it out for about two hours the next night, this time using eucalyptus oil, which is also supposed to help promote a sense of calmness. It was a game changer. The eucalyptus made me feel more relaxed than the lavender but also more productive, and it eased a lot of the tension I had been feeling, which is exactly what I needed to stay on track with my work. This time, with my mind quieter, I also found the sound of the steam to be very soothing.
I used the diffuser three times a week throughout the next month and noticed that I didn't feel my usual sense of worry as frequently as I had before. This isn't to say that the essential oils have removed those feelings entirely - that's just not how anxiety works - but they have helped me cope better than other methods I've tried, like cutting caffeine or going for a walk. I'm hopeful that it'll be even more relaxing soon, as I plan to add some deep-breathing exercises to my routine. If you're ready to give an essential oil diffuser a try, keep reading for some options that caught my eye, including my personal favorite.
Related: This 1 Thing Eased My Anxiety Almost Immediately, and I Never Would Have Guessed
These 8 Women Burned Fat, Built Muscle, and Transformed Their Bodies by Lifting Weights
Diet is a crucial step in losing weight and keeping it off, and so is exercise. The eight women ahead had various reasons for starting their weight-loss journeys, but they all had one thing in common: strength training.
They're proof that lifting weights won't make you bulky. Instead, it helped them achieve their fitness goals, feel more confident in their skin, and become more confident at the gym. Continue reading to find out how weightlifting helped them accomplish their goals.
10 Bowls, Smoothies, and Snacks That Will Soothe Your Symptoms This Cold and Flu Season
It's almost impossible to avoid getting sick during cold and flu season (everywhere you go is crawling with germs), and when you do come down with something, it can be just as challenging to find relief from your symptoms. Like the flu, colds are caused by a virus, which means there's no prescription that can help you recover faster. So, while you're testing out a few natural remedies, try these comforting recipes as well. Whether you're looking for a cozy bowl of soup or a vitamin-rich drink to start off your morning, there's something here that will help you feel better, stat.
Beyoncé's Offering a Lifetime Supply of Concert Tickets to 1 Winner Who Goes Vegan
Beyoncé and JAY-Z really weren't kidding about this whole vegan thing. After encouraging their fans to switch to a plant-based diet a few weeks ago, the couple recently decided to up the ante by announcing The Greenprint Project Sweepstakes. According to a recent Instagram post from Queen Bey, she and JAY-Z are offering one lucky fan who goes vegan tickets to either or both of their concerts for the next 30 years - so it looks like I'll be eating nothing but salad for the rest of 2019.
Veganism has frequently become a topic of conversation for the couple, and they recently discussed the positive environmental impact of a plant-based diet in Marco Borges's book, The Greenprint. The contest is open to any legal residents of the US, and interested parties can enter via the Greenprint Project's official website, where they can submit their names and email addresses on the entry page. Fans can enter the contest at any point between now and April 22, and a winner will selected at random in May. To reiterate, 30 years worth of concert tickets are on the line here, so I guess this vegan taco recipe is really going to come in handy for all of us in the next few months. See you at the salad bar.
Naomi Campbell Is the Personal Trainer of Our Dreams in This 20-Minute Workout Video
I'm still working on mastering my Naomi Campbell walk (read that again in your best Beyoncé voice), and lucky for me, I'm one step closer to being as fierce as the supermodel. Naomi has arguably the best powerful walk, and now she's decided to show us how strong she is off the runway in a workout video for the March issue of British Vogue. The video takes us through her entire workout, and honestly, I've never seen someone look more fabulous while lifting weights.
"Hello British Vogue, it's Naomi Campbell here, and I'm not going to have much time to work out today so I'm only going to do 20 minutes," she said in the introduction. Her trainer, Joe Holder, led her through a warmup - yes, even supermodels have time to warm up, so you have no excuses - followed by a series of dynamic movements, glute activation, and core activation exercises.
"For a couple of decades, I've tried to work out. I didn't really like it. Then, Riccardo Tisci introduced me to Joe and I started working out with Joe consistently. This is the most consistent I've worked out," the March cover star said. After the warmup, Joe took Naomi through a strength and conditioning workout that consisted of jumping rope, kettlebell suitcase deadlifts, band walks, rows, medicine ball chops, and the medicine ball Pallof press.
From the looks of it, this workout is legit, and you can count on Naomi to never break a sweat - #goals. Check out the full workout in the video above, and try it the next time you aren't sure what to do at the gym. Don't forget to channel your inner supermodel.
12 Low-Carb Protein Bars That Will Help You Survive Particularly Long Days
How do we survive busy days filled with long meetings, appointments, and running around from place to place? With protein bars. They're such an easy, effective snack we can always stash in our bags and feel satiated. Right now, we prefer ones with a lower carbohydrate content; think less than 10 grams of net carbs. We've gathered together a list of our 12 favorites for your snacking needs. The best part? Every single one of these bars is available on Amazon. Is it snack time yet?
What You Need to Know About 3 Different Types of Belly Fat
The older I get, the more sit-ups I do, and the more I just can't kick my own belly fat. I'm constantly asking myself: Is it my slowed-down metabolism? The greasy pizza I like to practically inhale? Or just plain old genetics? I can't tell what is causing that stubborn fat around my belly that just doesn't seem to go away.
Ginger Hultin, a registered dietitian, says it's a bit of a combination of all the above. "Belly fat occurs when excess calories are consumed and fat is deposited in the belly area," she says. "It's also called abdominal adiposity, and the reason this happens has to do with both lifestyle and your genes."
Much to my own surprise, there are three different types of belly fat out there, and all of them have a different reason for clinging to our tummies, even when we commit to tough ab workouts. Here's what you need to know about each of them.
Intra-Abdominal Fat
The first type of belly fat to know about is intra-abdominal fat, which Dr. David Greuner, a New York City surgeon, describes as fat that's closely related to your glucose and insulin metabolism. "Intra-abdominal fat is that inside the peritoneal cavity, made up of fat on and within the organs (liver and intestines) and the omentum (an apron of fat that hangs off the stomach)," he says.
Visceral Fat
"Visceral fat is a dangerous material that exists near your organs and is responsible for a rounded stomach," Dr. Greuner says. "It grows when there is a continuous buildup of saturated fats."
Subcutaneous Fat
Subcutaneous fat is present directly under the skin, and Dr. Greuner says it's much easier to burn than the other two types. "It is simple to rid yourself of, as it burns quickly but serves two important purposes: to be a cushion for the rest of your body and to supply the skin with oxygen through its blood vessels," he says. "All fats can be prevented through diet and exercise, but visceral and subcutaneous are the most crucial to shed, as they can be the main cause of disease."
So what can we do to reduce the fat around our belly, no matter the type? Dr. Charlie Seltzer, a physician who is board certified in obesity medicine, says it is quite simple. "To lose belly fat - or fat anywhere, for that matter - you need to eat fewer calories than you burn," Dr. Seltzer says. "It is really that simple. You cannot 'spot reduce.' Where the fat comes off first is largely based on your genes."
Seltzer adds that in addition to reducing your calorie intake, you should make sure to have good methods of managing stress, which can be anything from getting enough sleep at night to doing meditation throughout the day. "We do know that if levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) are high, any excess energy you consume will be preferentially deposited around your middle," he says.
Read Anne Hathaway's Candid Thoughts on Unhealthy Habits and the Pressures of Stardom
Here's yet another reminder that things are not always as they seem. After nearly two decades in the spotlight, Anne Hathaway is opening up about the unhealthy habits and low self-confidence that, in retrospect, tainted the early days of her career. "I did everything so wrong for so long," she said in the recent, very self-reflective interview with People.
"I thought movie stars had to have a certain body."
The actress, who has a string of new roles lined up after welcoming a son in 2016, said she used to battle "feelings of inadequacy, insecurity and nervousness and anxiety," even as her career was taking off. She added, "I'm not big on looking back, but I remember 10 years ago being so scared going into the whole awards season and doing what I thought I was supposed to do, so I barely ate anything at Christmas." The pressure also led Anne to smoke her "nerves away" and not properly nourish herself. "I thought movie stars had to have a certain body," she said.
As for how she moved past that phase, the solution wasn't necessarily a quick-fix. "It's been a journey. I don't look that different, but I just feel like the inside has transformed so much," she said. "I just figured out how to say thank you to life by taking care of myself. By not apologizing for taking up space, which is not something I knew how to do 10 years ago."
Gatorade's Special-Edition Peach Blitz Flavor Is Here For a Good Time, Not a Long Time
Step aside, Glacier Freeze - there's a new Gatorade flavor in town, and it's here to steal your thirst-quenching spotlight. In honor of this year's Super Bowl taking place in Atlanta, Gatorade is releasing a limited-edition Peach Blitz sports drink as a nod to Georgia's state nickname. And when I say this flavor is limited-edition, I mean very limited-edition. Gatorade is only producing 1,000 bottles of the light-orange drink and offering it in the Atlanta area leading up to Sunday's big game.
Below is a breakdown of where Peach Blitz will be available around Georgia's capital city. Looks like it's time to hit up your ATL pals so they can score you a bottle!
Where to Find Gatorade's Peach Blitz Flavor in Atlanta:
- Thursday, Jan. 31: Five Points at 3 p.m.
- Friday, Feb. 1: Beltline at 10th and Monroe at 4 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 2: Centennial Park at 12 p.m.
This Low-Carb, High-Protein Yogurt Tastes Sweet as Pie - With No Added Sugar
Healthy yogurts are all over the place, and if you've tried a few, you know that it's hard to get that sweet, kids-yogurt taste while keeping things in a low-sugar range. If plain or savory yogurts are your thing, you're good to go; for the rest of us, there's Elli Quark.
The brand offers decadent flavors like Brownie Batter, Red Velvet, and Sea Salt Caramel with zero, yep, zero added sugars. Even more surprising? The product isn't technically yogurt at all. Quark is actually a rich, fresh cheese from Germany that Elli Quark describes as "cheesecake in a cup" on its website. Even better are the nutrition facts. Both whole milk and nonfat versions are available, clocking in at 100 calories and 80 calories per serving, respectively. As for protein, there's 12 to 14 grams per cup, making this "yogurt" a good choice for macro-counters.
Instead of throwing in added sugars, Elli Quark uses a "plant-based sweetener blend," a mix of erythritol, which has a fraction of the calories of sugar, and stevia extract, which has almost no calories at all. Stevia in particular is much sweeter than table sugar, giving the quark a burst of sweetness without the calories. In all, the sugar content comes out to four to six grams per cup. Plus, there's a low-carb bonus: there are 11 grams of carbs, or less, per cup.
If you're ready to spice up your yogurt, Elli Quark is available at select Targets and grocery stores around the country. Head to their website to find a location near you, and keep reading for nutrition facts and more tasty flavors.
Is Shedding Belly Fat Really as Simple as Sipping Lemon Water? Here's What We Know
There's no doubt that there are benefits to drinking lemon water. The citrus fruit is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, "which remove potentially damaging oxidizing agents from the body, decreasing or preventing their ability to cause further havoc," according to Gabrielle Mancella, a registered dietitian at Orlando Health. But while lemons can help ward off illness and keep your skin healthy, you shouldn't count on them to target stubborn belly fat.
"There is no 'spot cleaning' when it comes to weight loss," Gabrielle told POPSUGAR. Even if there were, many experts believe that lemon water's weight-loss powers have been overstated. As Gabrielle explained, the idea is that sipping lemon water first thing in the morning can jump-start your system, so your body is better prepared to digest and metabolize food.
Research suggests it's more likely that simply staying hydrated helps strengthen your metabolism (Gabrielle noted that the body doesn't function properly when you're dehydrated), and that water anytime could help you cut calories throughout the day, though that can vary from person to person.
Bottom line: you should drink more water - with lemon if you like it for the taste or its other health benefits, but not to reduce belly fat. Given that Gabrielle also warned that the acid can wear down your enamel, it's more than fine to pass. (At the very least, consider popping a straw into your drink!)
Here's How You Can Build an At-Home Gym For Under $75
Yesterday, when I went to go work out in the morning, not only was it still dark outside, but the moon was also shining brightly. It was 6:15 a.m., and all I wanted to do was get back in bed. The unavoidable fact that in the Winter, it gets lighter later, combined with the breadth of awesome streaming workouts (Class FitSugar, anyone?) means that now, we shouldn't have to leave our homes to exercise. Just these 12 products can create your very own home gym! As if that wasn't exciting enough, every single one of these items is under $75. Now, let's get moving.
Cozy Up to These Low-Carb Soups, and Say So Long to That Dreaded Winter Weight
Throw on your sweater, slip into your fuzziest pair of socks, and put a pot on the stove because it's officially soup season. There might be nothing cozier or more satisfying than a hearty bowl of soup, but if you're trying to cut back on carbs, you'll need to take some precautions. Even the smallest amount of sugar in the recipe - or, ahem, those tortilla strips on top - can sabotage your weight-loss efforts. That's why we've rounded up these foolproof, low-carb recipes. Whether you like your soup creamy, stuffed with veggies, or high in protein, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
This Is What Causes Belly Fat, and the 3 Steps You Can Implement Today to Reduce It
If you're trying to reduce your body fat, specifically the fat around your stomach, doing countless ab workouts won't cut it. This is because spot-reduction doesn't work. To find out what causes belly fat in women and what actually works to get rid of it, POPSUGAR spoke to Perri Halperin, MS, RD, clinical dietitian at Mount Sinai Hospital.
Where Do Women Typically Store Fat?
You've probably heard that women tend to have more body fat than men, and according to Perri this is true. "The reason for this is likely evolutionary - women need more stored energy to support the reproductive process," Perri told POPSUGAR. Although women tend to have more body fat than men, Perri said, "Where fat is stored and why is individualized."
She then explained, "Those who are 'apple shaped' - with fat concentrated around the abdomen - are thought to be at a higher risk for conditions like heart disease and diabetes than those who are 'pear shaped' - who carry weight more in the hips, buttocks, and thighs." Fat that is concentrated around the abdomen is considered more of risk because it's intraviseral, and "stored throughout the important organs in your abdominal cavity," she explained.
What Causes Belly Fat in Women?
Let's be clear: eating a slice of pizza, candy, or your favorite dessert every now and then is OK - it's all about moderation. There isn't one specific reason why women develop fat in their abdominal region, and according to Perri, poor diet and low-activity levels are contributing factors to increased amounts of belly fat. Other reasons women develop belly fat are, "hormonal changes such as menopause, alcohol intake, age, stress, and family history," she said.
How to Reduce Your Belly Fat
If your goal is to reduce your belly fat, and overall body fat percentage, Perri said to eat a healthy diet that's low in sugar and high in fiber. She also recommended incorporating both aerobic and strength training exercises into your routine. If you aren't sure where to begin when it comes to strength training, this four-week program will teach you the fundamentals of lifting and help you build muscle.
I Survived Whole30, and This Is Exactly How I Did It
I'm not really sure how the whole thing started. I just knew that I needed to do something good for myself - different. It's like I just woke up one day and went, "Yep, I'm going to do this." And I did.
Let me rewind a bit. My name is Emily and I'm a food-a-holic. And a craft-cocktail-a-holic. Chicken and waffles and a great moscow mule make my entire weekend. My career centers on food trends and mixology. Not to mention, I travel a lot and am constantly at business dinners. However, I have also struggled with weight and body acceptance my entire 32-year-old life.
About eight years ago, I was at a pretty good weight and was happy with my body for the first time since high school. However, life happened, and by 2014, I clocked in at 193 pounds. Over the last few years, I have taken off about 10 to 15 pounds at a time, but it's always been a struggle. So much so that my friends and I would always joke about my thyroid as I shoved in lobster tacos or ordered another cucumber martini. But I wanted to get back to that weight; the weight I was when I remember being the happiest. That's when I decided to give Whole30 a try. For 30 days, I would rid my diet of alcohol, grains, sugar, dairy, and legumes.
I didn't wait to clean out the cabinets of all the junk. I didn't have one last binge session. I just set a deadline and said that it was only 30 days and I could handle it. The result? I lost 12.2 pounds in 30 days. I actually weigh less than my happy weight.
A lot of people said they feel restricted on this diet. I have to tell you, that was not the case for me. I enjoyed nights out, I was never hungry, and I ate good food. Really good food. If you plan correctly and ask the right questions of, say, a friend who is throwing a party, you will be fine.
My Whole30 Survival Guide
Meal Plan: Did I mention that you need to prep and plan everything? Planning my meals became almost a religious experience for me. I downloaded the Whole30 list of approved foods to keep on my phone and used it every time I went shopping. I spent some time planning my meals and comparing it to my weekly schedule - Which days would I need lunch? Would I be eating out at all? Will I have something prepared for lunch the next day if I do eat out?
Oh, and Prep For Nights Out, Too: While I did eat out a few times on Whole30, I tried to limit it. And when I did eat out, I did some pretty thorough research to make sure there was at least something I could eat, even if I had to modify it a bit. I did have a panic moment when a friend changed our dinner venue last minute, but it turned out fine. A lot of servers/restaurants are really accommodating if you just ask them to be!
Figure Out Your Go-To Foods: Mine were eggs, frozen precooked shrimp, and frozen blueberries. By keeping all of these things in stock, I could whip up a quick meal if I didn't feel like cooking something huge. And the frozen blueberries were an awesome snack when I was feeling like I wanted some ice cream.
You're Going to Crave Things: For a friend who is currently doing Whole30, it's alcohol. For me, it was ice cream. Around day eight, I was in complete agony because all I wanted was a mint chocolate chip cone. All I can tell you is to stick it out, because when you wake up the next morning, that craving will be gone. Well, it was for me until day 20, when I almost stole an ice cream cone from a passerby on the boardwalk on my run. Almost is the key word.
Your Skin Is Going to Glow: I kid you not. My mother looked at me on day 21 when I happened to be makeup-less and was like, "You look like you took 10 years off of you. I haven't seen your skin so clear in years." She was right. I had noticed it myself around day 14/15, but I wasn't sure if it was just a fluke or not.
Get a Support Group: I was very lucky to have two of my best friends with me every step of the way, both of whom are also trying to lose weight. Every craving, frustration, or victory, they were there to talk me down, celebrate with me, or push me forward. It felt really great. I was also very vocal to my family and friends about what I was doing. My father (whom I love and adore) is a food enabler, and for the first few family dinners, he would constantly ask if I could eat something or if I would try something. But I was firm, and soon he was on board too.
You Can Do It: Get a countdown board. Mark it on your calendar. Plan a fancy dinner for the first day off. You can do it. Stay focused. It's only 30 days.
So what's next for me? I have decided, for the most part, that I am going to stick to this eating plan. This "diet" has changed the way I think about food. It has made me realize how little I actually need to fuel properly, and it's made me think about what I miss and what I do not miss having in my diet. (Ice cream, yes; alcohol, no.) However, I won't completely stop eating what I love. If I want a glass of wine on date night, I will allow it and not feel so bad. I'll make sure to be extra good prior and after to balance it out. But today, I'm having an ice cream cone. Soft-serve swirl. With extra sprinkles.
Stress Really Can Make You Gain Weight, Especially in Your Belly - Here's Why
Stop us if you've heard this one before: stress causes belly fat. Or how about this one: stress makes you gain weight. It's not just the stress eating that's the culprit, either. In fact, there's a chemical behind those mystery pounds in your midsection - and it's yet another major reason to get to the root cause of your stress and eliminate it.
"Stress releases a hormone called cortisol," Erica Patel, MD, of the University of Southern California, told POPSUGAR. "[The release of cortisol] causes high blood sugar levels by promoting the breakdown of protein stores into glucose to be used as fuel. Over time, persistently high levels of cortisol seen in stress promote the storage of excess glucose as fat in the abdomen, causing belly fat."
While cortisol is typically the culprit in the creation and retention of stress-induced belly fat, it can also come from a stressed thyroid. "Stress can affect our master gland, the thyroid gland," said Habib Sadeghi, DO, author of The Clarity Cleanse. "Down-regulation [or suppression] of thyroid function can contribute to accumulation of adipose tissue [or fat] around the body, including the abdominal area."
So now that you know stress spikes your cortisol and suppresses your thyroid function - both potentially leading to fat gain and retention - let's practice a little self-care, shall we?
Meet Raine Michaels, the Inspiring Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model With a Rockstar Family
When the top six models for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue contest were announced on Wednesday, one name was immediately recognizable: Raine Michaels. The 18-year-old model, who just won a coveted spot in the famous swimsuit edition for 2019, comes from rock royalty. Her father is musician Bret Michaels, best known as the lead singer of the metal band Poison, and while she's not following in his rockstar footsteps, she's definitely making headlines of her own.
In an Instagram post, Michaels shared her news, along with a comment on how much this means to her and how long she's dreamed of this particular achievement. "It has been my dream to be a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model since I was 13 years old and it is now coming true." This isn't her first brush with the brand, though. In July 2018, Michaels made her modeling debut walking in the SI Swimsuit fashion show.
Michaels might also inspire fans by modeling what a life with a chronic health condition can look like. In an interview with Parents in 2010, her father opened up about his own struggles with type 1 diabetes, and the fact that tests had revealed that young Raine had prediabetes.
"When she was diagnosed with borderline diabetes at first she was really upset," he shared. "I've had [diabetes] my whole life, so all of our resources are self contained . . . We just talked to doctors who are friends of ours about it and a dietician [sic]." Michaels hasn't shared extensively about her own health, but she's living her best life and showing the world that a diagnosis of any kind doesn't have to be devastating.
Her proud dad also shared the happy news on Instagram, writing, "So incredibly proud of @rainee_m! She works hard while being the kind & humble soul she's always been. I know she's beyond excited to work with @si_swimsuit and is grateful to be a top 6 finalist! Congratulations to her and all the other finalists who worked so hard to get to this point!"
The pair don't often talk about each other publicly, as Michaels's parents tried to keep her and her younger sister, Jorja Bleu, out of the public eye. Still, Michaels told Maxim that her father has always been supportive, even when he had to be away. "My dad is a free-spirited guy who taught us to always believe in ourselves. He loves playing music and touring so it was awesome being able to go up on stage with him and sing," she said. "It's also been bittersweet because he toured so much that I didn't get to see him as much as I would like to. But he goes out of his way to come see me and we still always have the best time."
Something tells us there are more good times ahead for Michaels and the entire family. While you wait for the special issue to drop, scroll through to check out some of her gorgeous Instagram snaps.
Stuck on Losing That Last Belly Fat? This Is the Cardio to Get You There
Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a magic exercise we could do to melt away our lingering belly fat? The reality is that in order to make those stubborn fat cells shrink, we need to do the work in and out of the kitchen. The nutrition part is fundamental as we need to fuel our bodies for work while encouraging them to seek energy sources from what we already have in stock, i.e. our fat cells. We do that by eating clean, whole foods in the right amount. Then we turn on the fat burners through exercise. What kind works? You've heard it before, and it won't go away: HIIT training is your belly's best friend.
The winning aspect that high-intensity interval training has that other cardio doesn't is the increased strength element. You could run every single day and burn calories, but you aren't developing the overall lean muscle mass that is responsible for higher calorie consumption. And you are leaving out the upper half of your body. Doing combination, full-body, high-intensity moves builds the kind of muscle that continues to burn calories even after you stop working out. It's the EPOC principle at work (excess postexercise oxygen consumption - also known as afterburn) and is responsible for the success stories we love to read about from places like Orangetheory Fitness.
How do you make HIIT work for you? If you aren't familiar with this kind of training, start simple and limit the time. In order to get the full value from the workout, you have to be working at a higher-than-normal level. You should be out of breath. You should have a higher-than-regular cardio heart rate. You should feel fatigue hit quickly. If all those things are happening, you've hit the right exertion level. Start with a 10-minute workout with intervals of no more than 60 seconds in duration (you may feel more successful starting out with 20 seconds of work, like in a Tabata workout). Work as hard as you can - I like to say just shy of puking - and then take the full rest period. This type of training revs up your metabolism while you are in it and, depending on duration and effort, for between 12-48 hours later. And that is the key to getting rid of belly fat.
So remember, losing the weight you want is a combination of these two factors: First you have to push your body beyond its comfort zone for it to utilize that store of fat that it keeps for emergencies. You are literally overcoming a biological safety net. Then you have to provide your body with the right nutrition to allow it to loosen its grip on fat. If you deprive yourself of vital energy through food, survival instincts are triggered and your body will not allow for the burning of that backup. You have to eat to lose weight. True story.
And give it time. Belly fat didn't come overnight, and it won't leave that fast either. You can accelerate the process, but pushing too much too fast will backfire: your body won't like it and will refuse to cooperate, and you'll be too tired to want to keep up a punishing pace. You CAN succeed. But look in terms of weeks and months instead of days. Focus on the immediate gains of fitness and strength; the rest will come.
13 New Pink Sneakers So Pretty, You'll Never Want to Take Them Off Your Feet
Our love for pink is eternal. There's something about the color that makes us happy, and we're not going to question that. We love incorporating the hue into our activewear, which is why we rounded up our favorite pink sneakers. These kicks will motivate you to workout, plus they're very Instagram-worthy. That's pretty hard to resist!
The Golden Rules of Fat Loss, According to an Expert
Never run again - lift more instead! Can getting fit really be that simple?
We asked Sarah Chadwell, NASM certified personal trainer and natural bodybuilder, just how you could skip running and still look like a gym goddess. She told POPSUGAR that there are more effective training practices to burn fat and build strength. "You can cardio yourself to death and still have the same flat figure," said Chadwell. "Or you can follow the golden rules of weight loss, never run again, and have a lean, sexy, curvaceous physique."
Here are the golden rules of fat loss that Chadwell lives by:
If Your Mind Says Salad and Smoothies but Also Says Pizza and Cake, You'll Love These Memes
Eating clean is a lifestyle, and we do it because we feel our best when we load up on the veggies, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds. When we eat tons of sugar, refined carbs, alcohol, and packaged foods made with 38 ingredients we can't pronounce, we have low energy, brain fog, and don't sleep well.
That's not to say that eating clean is 100 percent easy and awesome every second of the day. If you strive to eat clean most of the time, but every once in a while indulge in your beloved pizza and doughnuts, then these memes will speak volumes of truth to you (and make you laugh!).
"Gray Space" Nail Polish Is Trending, and It Will Give You Instant Peace of Mind
When you're juggling work, family, and friends, finding me-time can feel like just another thing to add to your to-do list. The perfect solution to try when you're in desperate need of some R&R? "Gray space" nail polish.
The "gray space" nail trend is a form of self-care in and of itself. "This encompasses the new nude - a more neutral hue," Essie celebrity manicurist Michelle Saunders said. "Grays are making a mark because they're a contemporary color but also cozy, soothing, and serene. Gray signifies balance and serenity, and I think sometimes we forget how it feels to be still and neutral. Manicures are part of self-care and the perfect time to find a bit of peace; by choosing the 'gray space' theme we can give ourselves a gentle reminder of this. Not only will this reflect on your nails but also in your overall appearance."
Scroll through our favorite new gray nail polishes out there to give you instant peace of mind.
Demi Lovato Has a New Tattoo, and the Meaning Behind It Is So Sweet
There's a sweet message behind Demi Lovato's newest tattoo. The "Sorry Not Sorry" singer revealed via her Instagram Story on Wednesday that she recently got some new ink to honor her late dog Buddy, who passed away back in 2015. "Thank you @_dr_woo for the incredible portrait of my late angel buddy," she captioned the photo. "RIP @demisbuddy. I will love you forever and never forget you." The tattoo, which is placed right above the arch on her foot, features a drawing of the white maltipoo's face next to the words, "Buddy was here."
Lovato shared Buddy with her ex-boyfriend, Wilmer Valderrama, and she frequently took to Instagram to post cute photos of herself snuggling Buddy before announcing his passing to her Twitter followers in July 2015. "We are absolutely heartbroken to be writing this but Wilmer and I are devastated to inform you that we lost our little angel Buddy last Sunday," she wrote. "He was taken from us way too soon in a tragic accident and though I will never know why this had to happen, I do know that God only puts us through situations that we can handle so with that, together we our staying strong." According to TMZ, Buddy was attacked by a coyote in the backyard of Lovato's home in Los Angeles. See more photos of the singer and Buddy ahead.
Kim Kardashian’s Simple Manicure Is the 2019 Update French Nails Needed
Before frosted metallic and 3D nails, the spotlight had shone on french manicures as one of the era's biggest nail trends. Before we knew it, the look disappeared from everyday view - but Kim Kardashian is making sure we bring it with us to 2019.
She posted a video of her fingernails filed to a square shape, each one carefully painted with an eggshell white edge. She captioned the story with "French tip" and included the tag of the salon she went to for the look.
See the nail trend make a comeback, ahead.
Megan Markle Just Upgraded Her Hairstyle to One You've Never Seen Before
Meghan Markle had mastered the royal beauty look, and she just proved her good taste again by wearing another classic hair look we've never seen from her before. The mother-to-be Duchess was spotted wearing a slicked-back top knot, placed high on the crown of her head. We love how it's just the slightest bit messy, giving it a more carefree feel. While the Duchess has long been a fan of chignons, this is the highest we've seen her updos travel (and with no middle part, too).
Check out the photos of the look from every angle, ahead.
10 Beauty Sponges So Great, You'll Toss Your Makeup Brushes in the Trash
Searching for your favorite beauty sponge can take years, and it's frustrating to try out tool after tool on the quest for the perfect blender. You want one that can reach every angle and nook on your face, blend any product into your skin, and also apply powder lightly and make it look natural. Luckily, there are a handful of products on the market that will totally transform your makeup routine. Ahead you'll find the very best, so you can take your complexion game to the next level.
This $42 Faux Fur Coat Makes Me Feel Like a Straight Up Movie Star
After realizing that most of my shopping experiences in Winter end with me standing under a florescent light in the dressing room the same way I entered into this world - naked and afraid - I have succumbed to the fact that there is no corduroy trouser or other cold-weather trend cool enough for me to sacrifice warmth. Instead, I stick to wearing ugly 10-pound knitted scarves and my reliable puffer jacket.
Would you be surprised to learn, then, that I have never owned a fur coat (real or otherwise), despite admiring it on everyone from top-tier supermodels to socialites who have retired to the Upper East Side? (To be clear, I live on the Upper East Side, but I don't live on the Upper East Side, if you know what I'm saying.) Then I walked by a rack with a sample of the POPSUGAR at Kohl's Faux Fur Coat in Jet Black on full display at the office and thought, "If there were ever a time . . . "
From the moment I slipped it on, I felt like Elizabeth Taylor circa 1972 - sans all the money and husbands, because obviously - gracefully striding down the sidewalk like an Old Hollywood starlet. It's soft, stylish, and, most importantly for me, cozy. (I picked it up in a small, but the coat is also available in extended sizing.) Also pretty important? It happens to only be $42.
The fabric alone is a proven attention-grabber: I stood on the corner of 73rd and 2nd as a street style blogger ran her hand back and forth on the "fur" of my shoulder, ooh-ing and ahh-ing. For someone who cares about that "fashion-forward" title, I imagine that feels a little like Mozart telling you that you're not half bad with a harpsichord. For me, it just means I finally look like I belong in my neighborhood - and it's warm up here.
Big Fan of the Puppy Bowl? Here's What You Probably Didn't Know
If you're utterly obsessed with dogs, then there's no doubt you're a loyal viewer of Animal Planet's annual Puppy Bowl. Not so familiar with the event? It's exactly what it sounds like: a televised program where doggos split into teams by size (so big dogs vs. big dogs, etc.) and "play" each other on a mini football field for all to watch. As someone who got to go behind the scenes of the taping a few weeks back, let me attest that the pups are even cuter in real life.
There are literally dozens of pups playing everywhere! In its 15th year, Puppy Bowl XV is set to air on Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. ET and 12 p.m. PT. Think you know everything there is to know about this positively adorable tradition? Scroll through to learn a new factoid or two.
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