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 mai 2020

Get Excited - These Are the Best Beauty Products Hitting Sephora in 2020

Call it a heightened sense of elation, or even sensory overload - but the feeling that runs through your body when you browse the product-filled pages of Sephora can be overwhelming. If you've never experienced this, expect to this year, as the retailer will be rolling out some of the coolest new face creams, concealers, and skincare tonics we've ever seen.

This year, we're looking at hydrating lip products, hair care staples, and masks that we never want to take off. There are so many product launches still to come, but here's what we're crushing on right now. We have a feeling you're going to want to shop.

- Additional reporting by Jesa Calaor

Wondering Why Everyone's Watching Waco? The Stellar Cast Is One Reason

Ever since Paramount Network's Waco dropped on Netflix, the humble miniseries been a surprise hit with streaming audiences.The show touches on a tragedy that changed modern American history as we know it, even consulting with a Waco survivor to straighten out the facts. But besides delving into the 51-day standoff between the Branch Davidians and FBI, the show may have also drawn viewers with its truly remarkable lineup of talent. Starring Taylor Kitsch as the notorious David Koresh, Waco also enlisted A-listers such as Knives Out's Michael Shannon and Supergirl's Melissa Benoist. Read ahead to see all of the principal players in this star-studded cast.

Wondering Why Everyone's Watching Waco? The Stellar Cast Is One Reason

Ever since Paramount Network's Waco dropped on Netflix, the humble miniseries been a surprise hit with streaming audiences.The show touches on a tragedy that changed modern American history as we know it, even consulting with a Waco survivor to straighten out the facts. But besides delving into the 51-day standoff between the Branch Davidians and FBI, the show may have also drawn viewers with its truly remarkable lineup of talent. Starring Taylor Kitsch as the notorious David Koresh, Waco also enlisted A-listers such as Knives Out's Michael Shannon and Supergirl's Melissa Benoist. Read ahead to see all of the principal players in this star-studded cast.

Get Excited - These Are the Best Beauty Products Hitting Sephora in 2020

Call it a heightened sense of elation, or even sensory overload - but the feeling that runs through your body when you browse the product-filled pages of Sephora can be overwhelming. If you've never experienced this, expect to this year, as the retailer will be rolling out some of the coolest new face creams, concealers, and skincare tonics we've ever seen.

This year, we're looking at hydrating lip products, hair care staples, and masks that we never want to take off. There are so many product launches still to come, but here's what we're crushing on right now. We have a feeling you're going to want to shop.

- Additional reporting by Jesa Calaor

I Make Homemade Ramen, and It's Actually a Lot Easier Than You Might Think

I've been hooked on ramen pretty much since the very first time I tried it. While I love going out for a professionally made bowl of it, I've also been experimenting for years with different ways to make the comfort food myself. While it may seem intimidating, I can tell you that it's not nearly as hard as you might think it is.

First, start with the noodles. I recommend cooking the noodles separately from the broth to prevent them from getting gummy. Then, sauté your onions and mushrooms until they're nice and browned. Add garlic and cook for about a minute.

To make your chicken broth, add the chicken base to the hot water and stir to combine. Pour chicken broth into your pot and bring it back up to a simmer. Meanwhile, slice your chicken thin (I like to slice it while it's still frozen - I swear it works!).

To get an especially savory flavor, I combine one tablespoon each of soy sauce, miso paste, and Worcestershire sauce to make my very own "flavor bomb." I add this secret sauce to a lot of my favorite meaty dishes.

Once you add the sliced chicken, your broth should look like this:

The end result is a dish that's packed with flavor and perfect for low-key weeknights. Keep reading for the full recipe and instructions.

Homemade Ramen

Original Recipe by Bethany Good

Notes

Pro tip: slice chicken breasts while they are still frozen.

For leftovers, store noodles and soup separately, that way the noodles don’t soak up all the broth. Ramen broth freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

  1. 2 packages of dry ramen noodles
    2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
    1 tablespoon canola or other neutral oil (don't use olive oil)
    1 small-to-medium onion (slice half and dice the rest)
    1 5-oz. package Shitake mushrooms, washed (dice 1 cup and leave the rest for later)
    1 tablespoon of minced garlic
    8 cups of chicken broth (I make my own by using Better Than Boullion Roasted Chicken Base and boiling water)
    “Flavor bomb” (1 tablespoon each of soy sauce, miso paste, and Worcestershire sauce combined)
    2 tablespoons of mirin
    Sliced green onions, cilantro, or chives for garnishing

Directions

For the noodles:

  1. Make noodles according to package directions. Set aside.

For the Broth:

  1. In a large pot sauté diced onions mushroom in oil till browned.
  2. Add garlic, saute until fragrant.
  3. Add chicken broth, bring to simmer.
  4. Add “flavor bomb” and mirin.
  5. Bring the broth back up to a roiling boil.
  6. Add mushrooms and thinly sliced onions.
  7. Add sliced chicken and make sure to cook thoroughly.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings accordingly.

To serve:

  1. Place noodles in a bowl.
  2. Add broth.
  3. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and chives. Enjoy!

Did Someone Say Tequila? These Margarita Recipes Are All You Need For Cinco de Mayo

Typically made with tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh limes, margaritas are a refreshing and tasty cocktail choice for anyone in need of a drink. Margaritas can be infused with fruity flavors, blended into a frozen drink, or served on the rocks. From coconut concoctions to fresh watermelon refreshers, every sip is as delightful as the first. Whether you prefer your margaritas classic or creative, we've got a ton of recipes to satisfy your cocktail cravings. Stock up on tequila and limes, and enjoy a tequila-twisted drink like never before. Don't forget the tortilla chips and guacamole!

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

This Fluffy Dalgona-Style Whipped Nutella Recipe Only Requires 2 Simple Ingredients

The dalgona whipped coffee craze has evolved into a handful of fluffy drink recipes that would put most milkshakes to shame, and the latest one already has my mouth watering: whipped Nutella milk. Made with just two ingredients (whipping cream and Nutella), the sweet drink is rich, creamy, and so easy to make that I already know I'm going to spend the weekend working on my barista skills just so I can make this over and over again.

Much like whipped strawberry milk, whipped chocolate, and whipped matcha, the whipped Nutella can be scooped onto an ice-cold glass of your milk of choice and served with all of your favorite toppings (including an extra scoop of Nutella). Keep scrolling to so see just how easy it is to whip up a glass of this chocolate hazelnut drink ahead.

Did Someone Say Tequila? These Margarita Recipes Are All You Need For Cinco de Mayo

Typically made with tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh limes, margaritas are a refreshing and tasty cocktail choice for anyone in need of a drink. Margaritas can be infused with fruity flavors, blended into a frozen drink, or served on the rocks. From coconut concoctions to fresh watermelon refreshers, every sip is as delightful as the first. Whether you prefer your margaritas classic or creative, we've got a ton of recipes to satisfy your cocktail cravings. Stock up on tequila and limes, and enjoy a tequila-twisted drink like never before. Don't forget the tortilla chips and guacamole!

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

Disney Just Announced Performers For Its Family Singalong: Volume II, Airing on Mother's Day!

If anything and everything Disney is the name of the game in your household, you're in luck. ABC is premiering a Disney Family Singalong: Volume II at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 10 - aka Mother's Day! And as with the first singalong, it'll be hosted by Ryan Seacrest and will feature engaging performances of songs from beloved Disney movies and shows by celebrities and Broadway stars.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the evening's lineup will include an eclectic mix. Little Mermaid fans won't want to miss Idina Menzel and Ben Platt singing "A Whole New World," Halsey belting out an indie rendition of "Part of Your World," or Rebel Wilson's version of "Poor Unfortunate Souls". If The Lion King is more your speed, tune in for Billy Eichner and Seth Rogan performing "Hakuna Matata" featuring Donald Glover. Pixar lovers can enjoy Miguel singing "Remember Me" from Coco and Shakira will sing "Try Everything" from Zootopia. For a tribute to the Disney classic Mary Poppins, Julianne Hough, Derek Hough, and Hayley Erbert will perform a "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Step in Time" medley.

Related: 11 Photos of Kids' Self-Isolation Haircuts That Went About as Well as You'd Expect Them To

Keep in mind that your family can stream the first singalong performance on Disney+ now - so you can make sure the kiddos practice their favorite tunes before Mother's Day!

Did Someone Say Tequila? These Margarita Recipes Are All You Need For Cinco de Mayo

Typically made with tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh limes, margaritas are a refreshing and tasty cocktail choice for anyone in need of a drink. Margaritas can be infused with fruity flavors, blended into a frozen drink, or served on the rocks. From coconut concoctions to fresh watermelon refreshers, every sip is as delightful as the first. Whether you prefer your margaritas classic or creative, we've got a ton of recipes to satisfy your cocktail cravings. Stock up on tequila and limes, and enjoy a tequila-twisted drink like never before. Don't forget the tortilla chips and guacamole!

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

vendredi 1 mai 2020

No Need to Pay Extra - Make Your Own Chipotle Guac at Home!

One can never have enough of Chipotle Mexican Grill's guacamole, but you're in luck. We went into the kitchen with Chipotle to learn exactly how to make its legendary avocado dip, so you can always get your fix. The secret? A longtime recipe that comes courtesy of founder (and classically trained chef) Steve Ells.

Related: These Copycat Recipes Perfectly Re-Create Some of the Most Popular Restaurant Appetizers

Chipotle's Signature Guacamole

From Chipotle Mexican Grill

Ingredients

  1. 6 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  1. 1/4 cup citrus (lemon and lime) juice
  1. 3 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
  1. 1 1/2 cups red onion, finely chopped
  1. 12 large serrano chiles, seeded and finely chopped
  1. 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  1. Tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

  1. Using a fork, mash avocados with citrus juice in small bowl.
  2. Add cilantro, chopped onion, serrano chilies, and salt. Stir to combine. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

Makes six to 10 servings.

No Need to Pay Extra - Make Your Own Chipotle Guac at Home!

One can never have enough of Chipotle Mexican Grill's guacamole, but you're in luck. We went into the kitchen with Chipotle to learn exactly how to make its legendary avocado dip, so you can always get your fix. The secret? A longtime recipe that comes courtesy of founder (and classically trained chef) Steve Ells.

Related: These Copycat Recipes Perfectly Re-Create Some of the Most Popular Restaurant Appetizers

Chipotle's Signature Guacamole

From Chipotle Mexican Grill

Ingredients

  1. 6 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  1. 1/4 cup citrus (lemon and lime) juice
  1. 3 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
  1. 1 1/2 cups red onion, finely chopped
  1. 12 large serrano chiles, seeded and finely chopped
  1. 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  1. Tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

  1. Using a fork, mash avocados with citrus juice in small bowl.
  2. Add cilantro, chopped onion, serrano chilies, and salt. Stir to combine. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

Makes six to 10 servings.

17 Can Be Sweet, Too! 38 Cake Ideas For Your 17-Year-Old's Birthday

Seventeen can be sweet, too! After the allure of turning 16 and before the thrill of being 18, there's the less-talked-about 17th birthday - an in-between year for sure, but still one to celebrate! Although your teen might feel a little bit old for a themed party, that doesn't mean their cake has to be boring. Whether you hone in on something that made their previous year amazing - maybe it was the year they fell in love with cooking, or Harry Potter? - focus on one of their hobbies, or highlight the fact that they might be getting their learner's permit soon, a 17-year-old's cake leaves a lot of room for fun.

Ahead, see some of our favorite 17th birthday cake ideas.

The Parks and Recreation Episode Was so Good, It's Hard to Pick a Favorite Moment

Fans finally got the Parks and Recreation reunion that they've been hungry for since the series ended in 2015, though probably not the way they expected to. On April 30, Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and our favorite Pawnee parks department alumni reunited for a one-time-only special on NBC in support of Feeding America's COVID-19 Response Fund.

Of course, Leslie spent the episode ensuring her loved ones were staying safe in a time of social distancing, but she also made sure to spread the word of safety to the rest of the world. If you missed the special, or the Paley Center tribute to the series that aired before the reunion episode, check out our favorite moments from the entire night ahead!

The Parks and Recreation Episode Was so Good, It's Hard to Pick a Favorite Moment

Fans finally got the Parks and Recreation reunion that they've been hungry for since the series ended in 2015, though probably not the way they expected to. On April 30, Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and our favorite Pawnee parks department alumni reunited for a one-time-only special on NBC in support of Feeding America's COVID-19 Response Fund.

Of course, Leslie spent the episode ensuring her loved ones were staying safe in a time of social distancing, but she also made sure to spread the word of safety to the rest of the world. If you missed the special, or the Paley Center tribute to the series that aired before the reunion episode, check out our favorite moments from the entire night ahead!

No Need to Pay Extra - Make Your Own Chipotle Guac at Home!

One can never have enough of Chipotle Mexican Grill's guacamole, but you're in luck. We went into the kitchen with Chipotle to learn exactly how to make its legendary avocado dip, so you can always get your fix. The secret? A longtime recipe that comes courtesy of founder (and classically trained chef) Steve Ells.

Related: These Copycat Recipes Perfectly Re-Create Some of the Most Popular Restaurant Appetizers

Chipotle's Signature Guacamole

From Chipotle Mexican Grill

Ingredients

  1. 6 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  1. 1/4 cup citrus (lemon and lime) juice
  1. 3 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
  1. 1 1/2 cups red onion, finely chopped
  1. 12 large serrano chiles, seeded and finely chopped
  1. 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  1. Tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

  1. Using a fork, mash avocados with citrus juice in small bowl.
  2. Add cilantro, chopped onion, serrano chilies, and salt. Stir to combine. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

Makes six to 10 servings.

Aldi's Fruity Lime and Strawberry Margaritas Replace Tequila With Wine, and We're Listening

Sometimes a cocktail and some quiet time is all you need to imagine you're on a tropical getaway, and Aldi is selling wine-based margaritas that have me ready to pack my imaginary bags for a trip straight to the refrigerator. Made by Rancho La Gloria, the fruity cocktails are available in the cold beverage section at participating Aldi locations for $13 per 750 milliliter bottle. The drinks, spotted by Instagram user Aldi.mademedoit, have also been seen at Whole Foods, Publix, Ralph's and H-E-B locations across the country.

Replacing tequila with wine isn't my first thought when making a margarita, but the 13.9 percent ABV has me willing to try a sip (or several) of the delicious-looking drinks. Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the wine-based margaritas in the wild, and find them at your local Aldi or order them for yourself via Instacart.

In Honor of Warm Weather, May We Present Our 15 New Favorite Running Shorts

There are a lot of great things about warmer weather, but it definitely means we need to switch up our workout wear. We're working up enough of a sweat as is, so the cooler, lighter clothes we can wear, the better. That's why we're stocking up on workout shorts. They're great for both lounging around the house and getting a good sweat in. Basically, you won't want to take them off.

These 15 shorts are at the top of our wishlist, and this season, there are so many great options to pick from. Think cool bike shorts and bright, loose options. Keep yourself cool and ready to sweat with these 15 picks. Now, let's move.

Aldi's Fruity Lime and Strawberry Margaritas Replace Tequila With Wine, and We're Listening

Sometimes a cocktail and some quiet time is all you need to imagine you're on a tropical getaway, and Aldi is selling wine-based margaritas that have me ready to pack my imaginary bags for a trip straight to the refrigerator. Made by Rancho La Gloria, the fruity cocktails are available in the cold beverage section at participating Aldi locations for $13 per 750 milliliter bottle. The drinks, spotted by Instagram user Aldi.mademedoit, have also been seen at Whole Foods, Publix, Ralph's and H-E-B locations across the country.

Replacing tequila with wine isn't my first thought when making a margarita, but the 13.9 percent ABV has me willing to try a sip (or several) of the delicious-looking drinks. Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the wine-based margaritas in the wild, and find them at your local Aldi or order them for yourself via Instacart.

We Swear It's the Gospel Truth - Disney Has a Live-Action Hercules Film in the Works

You asked and the gods listened - Disney is going the distance and doing a live-action remake of Hercules. The 1997 animated classic joins a long list of Disney films getting a 3D makeover, and the studio is already developing the production team. The Hollywood Reporter reported that Dave Callaham - writer for Marvel's upcoming Simu Liu-led film, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings - has been tapped to pen the script, with Avengers directors Joe and Anthony Russo set to produce via their AGBO banner.

Most Disney fans recall the film's amazing soundtrack - which is thanks to the glorious voices behind the movie's Muses - but the movie's story is a classic tale. A musical retelling of the Hercules legend, the 1997 flick featured a star-packed voice cast, from Tate Donovan as the titular hunky demigod to James Woods as the hot-headed Hades, Danny DeVito as Philoctetes, and Susan Egan as Megara. There's no word on who will take over these iconic roles for the live-action cast, but fingers crossed that DeVito pulls a James Earl Jones and reprises his role.

The most important question we have now is, who will be playing the Muses?

In Honor of Warm Weather, May We Present Our 15 New Favorite Running Shorts

There are a lot of great things about warmer weather, but it definitely means we need to switch up our workout wear. We're working up enough of a sweat as is, so the cooler, lighter clothes we can wear, the better. That's why we're stocking up on workout shorts. They're great for both lounging around the house and getting a good sweat in. Basically, you won't want to take them off.

These 15 shorts are at the top of our wishlist, and this season, there are so many great options to pick from. Think cool bike shorts and bright, loose options. Keep yourself cool and ready to sweat with these 15 picks. Now, let's move.

Aldi's Fruity Lime and Strawberry Margaritas Replace Tequila With Wine, and We're Listening

Sometimes a cocktail and some quiet time is all you need to imagine you're on a tropical getaway, and Aldi is selling wine-based margaritas that have me ready to pack my imaginary bags for a trip straight to the refrigerator. Made by Rancho La Gloria, the fruity cocktails are available in the cold beverage section at participating Aldi locations for $13 per 750 milliliter bottle. The drinks, spotted by Instagram user Aldi.mademedoit, have also been seen at Whole Foods, Publix, Ralph's and H-E-B locations across the country.

Replacing tequila with wine isn't my first thought when making a margarita, but the 13.9 percent ABV has me willing to try a sip (or several) of the delicious-looking drinks. Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the wine-based margaritas in the wild, and find them at your local Aldi or order them for yourself via Instacart.

6 Myths About the HPV Vaccine Doctors Wish Would Fade Away For Good

Vaccines have been a point of contention in recent years, resulting in outbreaks of preventable diseases. But perhaps none has been more stigmatized than the vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. Because HPV spreads so easily and can have lifelong consequences, it's important to cut through the noise online.

"HPV is a virus which can infect people, become incorporated into human cells, and cause changes which may lead to the development of cancers of the genital tract, rectum, and head and neck," Eva Chalas, MD, physician director at the Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Winthrop Hospital, told POPSUGAR. "Vaccination of young people who have not been exposed to the virus and have a healthy immune system offers more than 90 percent protection from infection by the HPV virus."

The problem? Relatively few Americans who are eligible to get the vaccine do. Meanwhile, "other countries like Australia - where HPV vaccination is mandatory in school - have already reported dropping rates of HPV-related cancers," Dr. Chalas explained. "We need to stop lagging behind."

While even the smallest risk of developing cancer should be enough to deter anyone from skipping the vaccine, there are also risks for those whose cases of HPV never get that far. "Treatment of precancerous lesions of the cervix in young women results in increased risk of pregnancy loss and premature delivery because the treatment often involves shortening the cervix by removing a piece of it," Dr. Chalas said. As for the cases that do progress to cancer, "many are treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy," she explained. Even in the best-case scenario, "these have long-term side effects."

Yet despite the vaccine being incredibly safe and necessary, misinformation continues to spread, fueling a dangerous reluctance to vaccinate. "This will result in vulnerability to developing HPV-related cancers, risk of suffering consequence of treatment of these cancers, and lives lost since not all patients affected by the cancers associated with HPV will be cured," Dr. Chalas said. "This is a perfect example of the old adage, 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.'"

Keep reading to see some of the most common myths surrounding the HPV vaccine and learn why everyone should be protected.

6 Myths About the HPV Vaccine Doctors Wish Would Fade Away For Good

Vaccines have been a point of contention in recent years, resulting in outbreaks of preventable diseases. But perhaps none has been more stigmatized than the vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. Because HPV spreads so easily and can have lifelong consequences, it's important to cut through the noise online.

"HPV is a virus which can infect people, become incorporated into human cells, and cause changes which may lead to the development of cancers of the genital tract, rectum, and head and neck," Eva Chalas, MD, physician director at the Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Winthrop Hospital, told POPSUGAR. "Vaccination of young people who have not been exposed to the virus and have a healthy immune system offers more than 90 percent protection from infection by the HPV virus."

The problem? Relatively few Americans who are eligible to get the vaccine do. Meanwhile, "other countries like Australia - where HPV vaccination is mandatory in school - have already reported dropping rates of HPV-related cancers," Dr. Chalas explained. "We need to stop lagging behind."

While even the smallest risk of developing cancer should be enough to deter anyone from skipping the vaccine, there are also risks for those whose cases of HPV never get that far. "Treatment of precancerous lesions of the cervix in young women results in increased risk of pregnancy loss and premature delivery because the treatment often involves shortening the cervix by removing a piece of it," Dr. Chalas said. As for the cases that do progress to cancer, "many are treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy," she explained. Even in the best-case scenario, "these have long-term side effects."

Yet despite the vaccine being incredibly safe and necessary, misinformation continues to spread, fueling a dangerous reluctance to vaccinate. "This will result in vulnerability to developing HPV-related cancers, risk of suffering consequence of treatment of these cancers, and lives lost since not all patients affected by the cancers associated with HPV will be cured," Dr. Chalas said. "This is a perfect example of the old adage, 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.'"

Keep reading to see some of the most common myths surrounding the HPV vaccine and learn why everyone should be protected.

21 Popular Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Recipes You Need in Your Life

Fact: Giada De Laurentiis is queen of pasta. If you need proof, look no further than her most popular pasta recipes, from lasagna roll-ups to lemon spaghetti and butternut squash rigatoni with shrimp. If your idea of a good meal involves plenty of carbs and cheese, these are the trusted recipes you'll want to bookmark for dinner any night of the week. These are the best carb-filled recipes people swear by, and we have a feeling they'll be just as popular in your household, too.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

This Countertop Oven Is the Perfect Gift For Any Passionate At-Home Cook

In college, I cooked homemade meals at least three times a week, and I'm not talking about boiling water for pasta or making PB&J sandwiches. Taco night with my roommates, Italian Sunday dinners, and even Friendsgiving (yes, I actually made a turkey) were staples throughout the school year. Cooking at home was something I really enjoyed and did well . . . until graduation. I moved to New York City and started working like an adult, and as cliché as it sounds, life got in the way of my passion for pots and pans. I replaced my oven and stovetop experimentation with takeout and dining out.

But when I started easing back into this pastime a couple months ago, I realized that cooking good meals in a small space wasn't as easy as I'd remembered. Thankfully, I discovered Brava ($1,095), a countertop oven that uses visible and infrared light to cook food faster and doesn't require 100 different baking sheets or timers going off at random intervals to do so. Basically, it's like an Easy-Bake Oven for adults, but a million times better (and has healthier options). It's a must-have kitchen accessory for anyone who has a small apartment (read: little storage space), has limited time to cook, and loves homemade meals.

Although this countertop oven doesn't come cheap, it can help save hundreds of dollars over the course of a few months. I swapped expensive restaurant checks for grocery receipts, meanwhile making me more aware of the ingredients in my food. My diet is more varied, too (I've discovered new recipes and meals, rather than opting to eat the same to-go orders again and again).

The beauty of the Brava is simplification. First, you select a dish from the digital screen on top of the device. The options span from childhood favorites like chicken tenders to fancy meals like filet mignon and baby broccoli. Next, you prepare your meal (i.e. season it to your liking), put your ingredients on a designated tray, put that tray in the machine, and press a button. You can watch your meal cook by peeping at the camera on the same digital dashboard. The Brava is super efficient, too. A dish like salmon with sautéed asparagus and tomatoes that might take you 60 minutes traditionally will instead take you 12 minutes at most. And many foods (sides and the main protein) can be cooked on the same tray, all at once.

And while it's a great investment for yourself, it can also make the perfect gift. Right now for Mother's Day, with every Brava purchase from now until May 7, the company is giving away a set of six La Boite spices (over $100 value + free two-day shipping).

Although the food-themed get-togethers of my past were fun, I don't think I could host a dinner party ever again without the help of my countertop oven. Keep reading to learn more about why it's one of the best kitchen appliances you can buy.

Here's Where You Can Find Hand Sanitizer in Stock Right Now

Hand sanitizer is one of those products we always want to have on hand, no pun intended. It's been tough to find certain products in stock right now, but now that some cosmetics companies are starting to manufacture hand sanitizers, there's more options available. While it's not a perfect alternative for washing your hands, if you're leaving the house, it's a really good thing to keep in your car or pocket. We could always use more hand sanitizer, especially if it's been previously unavailable, so we're buying some online from these eight companies.

From cute little minis with different flavors to luxe options that smell delicious, these are the hand sanitizers you can buy right now. Some are perfect for putting in your pocket, and others work great for the whole family to use. Just keep reading to shop our picks.

21 Popular Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Recipes You Need in Your Life

Fact: Giada De Laurentiis is queen of pasta. If you need proof, look no further than her most popular pasta recipes, from lasagna roll-ups to lemon spaghetti and butternut squash rigatoni with shrimp. If your idea of a good meal involves plenty of carbs and cheese, these are the trusted recipes you'll want to bookmark for dinner any night of the week. These are the best carb-filled recipes people swear by, and we have a feeling they'll be just as popular in your household, too.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

Brie Larson Radiates Summer Vibes as She Covers Noah Cyrus's "July" on the Electric Guitar

Brie Larson owns it on screen, on the red carpet, and at the gym, but many people might not know that she's also musically talented. If voices were superpowers, we have a feeling Captain Marvel would be very proud. On Thursday, Larson shared an Instagram video of herself performing a cover of Noah Cyrus's "July" on the electric guitar. The cover shows off Larson's impressive vocal talents and puts a raw spin on the comforting love song, which has us craving sunny days and romantic road trips.

Longtime Larson fans know that she released an album way back in 2005 titled Finally Out of PE, and this cover is just more proof that she should release another album ASAP. Watch Larson's full performance here and prepare to listen to her heartfelt cover on repeat throughout the rest of the day.

The 37 Absolute Best Gifts You Can Buy For Tweens

Not little kids, but not quite teens, tweens can be a difficult group to please when it comes to shopping. But not to worry, because with our list of gifts, you're sure to get a smile from the biggest kids (but don't call them that!) in your life. Whether you have a sports fanatic or a mini fashionista on your hands, we've got you covered.

Ahead, you can shop our 37 hottest gifts for tweens that will blow them away. We uncovered everything like play chemistry sets, to bikes, and even cute lights for their bedrooms. These presents are perfect for your middle schooler who can't wait to grow up but still can't resist a cool toy or two. Keep reading to shop them all.

- Additional reporting by Eleanor Sheehan

Related: 50 Gifts Teenage Girls Will Adore - For Less Than $50

11 Cool Gifts That Teachers Will Appreciate, All Under $25

If you want to show your child's teacher how much you appreciate them, send them a little something special. You don't have to break the bank to gift them with a thoughtful item. We rounded up our favorite options under $25 your kids can ship to their educators. Check out these sweet and memorable ideas.

21 Popular Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Recipes You Need in Your Life

Fact: Giada De Laurentiis is queen of pasta. If you need proof, look no further than her most popular pasta recipes, from lasagna roll-ups to lemon spaghetti and butternut squash rigatoni with shrimp. If your idea of a good meal involves plenty of carbs and cheese, these are the trusted recipes you'll want to bookmark for dinner any night of the week. These are the best carb-filled recipes people swear by, and we have a feeling they'll be just as popular in your household, too.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

Brie Larson Radiates Summer Vibes as She Covers Noah Cyrus's "July" on the Electric Guitar

Brie Larson owns it on screen, on the red carpet, and at the gym, but many people might not know that she's also musically talented. If voices were superpowers, we have a feeling Captain Marvel would be very proud. On Thursday, Larson shared an Instagram video of herself performing a cover of Noah Cyrus's "July" on the electric guitar. The cover shows off Larson's impressive vocal talents and puts a raw spin on the comforting love song, which has us craving sunny days and romantic road trips.

Longtime Larson fans know that she released an album way back in 2005 titled Finally Out of PE, and this cover is just more proof that she should release another album ASAP. Watch Larson's full performance here and prepare to listen to her heartfelt cover on repeat throughout the rest of the day.